Times of Tonbridge 1st November 2017

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

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Glass recycling planned in 2019 – but you’ll pay for garden waste

CASTING A SPELL

Meet the wand-makers lurking in Tonbridge woodlands Page 2

By Katie Harris GARDEN waste collection will become a paid-for service in Tonbridge if cost-cutting proposals are approved.

Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council (TMBC) is considering joining Dartford and Tunbridge Wells authorities in merging bin collections under a new, single operator – a move that would save £3million annually.

This would enable residents to have their glass recycling collected from the kerbside for the first time from March 2019.

But residents would have to pay an annual fee to ‘opt in’ to have garden waste collected fortnightly. This service has been provided free of charge.

Food waste The cost of this new brown bin has not been announced, but judging by the precedent of other councils adopting the policy, it would be around £30.

The scheme would also include a new food waste caddy to be collected weekly.

Councillor David Lettington, Cabinet Member for Street Scene and Environment Services, said: “Adding glass and plastics recycling to our kerbside service will be great news for our residents.

He added: “We are on schedule to begin the tendering process for the new contract in December.”

47 YEARS OF SERVICE

Boys Brigade hero honoured with British Empire Medal Page 2

A STITCH IN TIME

The poppy carpet and Women in War statues are unveiled at Tonbridge Castle: (L-R) Pupils of Hillview School, artist Guy Portelli, Poppy Appeal deputy organiser Pam Mills, Cllr Peter Bolt, Pilot Officer Tom Bristow, Tonbridge & Malling Mayor Roger Dalton, Tom Tugendhat MP and the 2520 Tonbridge Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets. See page 2

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

Tonbridge Calling raises money for four local charities Page 11

Council staff clock up thousands of pounds extra with ‘over the odds’ mileage claims

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk CRITICISM has been levied at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council [TMBC] for overpaying its staff by almost 50 per cent for petrol allowances.

It is one of four local authorities across Kent – along with Sevenoaks, Shepway and Ashford – that have been providing expenses of 65p per mile. The official rate

suggested by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs [HMRC] is 45p per mile.

‘No local authority should be paying more than HMRC’s approved rate’ Last year, the decision to pay above the recommended rate cost the council, which means the taxpayers across the borough, more than £20,000 in extra expenses.

The revelation comes despite TMBC facing a budget deficit of £1.6million, which it says is leaving its provision of essential services severely stretched.

The data has come to light from a survey of all councils in the UK conducted by the TaxPayers’ Alliance, a campaigning group ‘dedicated to reforming taxes, cutting spending and protecting taxpayers’.

The Chief Executive of the TaxPayers’

Continued on page 2

BUILD THE FUTURE

Hugh Christie pupils meet the giants of construction Page 21

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Local News

Council criticised over car expenses Continued from page 1 Alliance, John O’Connell, said: “Driving is extremely expensive in Britain thanks to sky-high rates of fuel and vehicle excise duties.

“But there’s no excuse for councils to pay over the odds. No local authority should be paying more than HMRC’s approved rate.

“It’s simply not credible for councils to plead poverty and raise council tax while paying excessive mileage rates, especially when the government has told councils to rein in these payments for the past five years.”

Contract HMRC’s guidelines state that employers can choose to pay above the approved rate, but they ‘must add anything above the ‘approved amount’ to employee’s pay, and deduct and pay tax as normal’.

A TMBC spokesperson told the Times: “It is correct that some staff who are not normally required to use their vehicle as part of their employment, and do not receive any other form of payment for the use of their car, can claim their mileage at 65p per mile if they are required to use their car for work purposes.”

The council differentiates contractually between casual car users and essential car

users – the latter are paid a lump sum instead of a rate per mile.

“Employees whose contract of employment states they are eligible to claim a ‘casual car user allowance’ for the ad hoc mileage that they undertake on behalf of the council on infrequent occasions are reimbursed according to the nationally determined ‘casual car user allowance’ prevailing at the time,” added the spokesperson.

While almost one in four councils (38 per cent) paid above the approved rate in 2016-17, the average national rate was still only 48.92p per mile.

This means that a TMBC employee is more than £50 better off after travelling 250 miles than his or her neighbouring colleagues.

The total mileage claim for TMBC employees was £71,153, which is a significant reduction on the previous year’s figure of £76,119.

The figures show that council employees travelled a total of 109,466 miles. If they had been given the standard rate, the authority’s bill would have come to £49,260.

Thanet District Council has only been paying 18.74p per mile. Despite its 65p rate, Ashford only paid out £14,460 in 2016-17 – the second lowest sum across the county’s 11 councils (Maidstone declined to give a figure).

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Town rolls out the red carpet for those who gave their lives in war

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk A REMEMBRANCE carpet made of more than 7,000 poppies knitted by the public was unveiled at Tonbridge Castle on Friday.

The occasion marked the launch of the Royal British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal.

The ceremony also saw the installation of three statues honouring the role of women in wartime, created by pupils at Hillview School for Girls assisted by local sculptor Guy Portelli.

The carpet, which also features cornflowers – the French symbol of remembrance – is exactly 11 metres and 11 centimetres long, to mark the date of the signing of The Armistice to end World War I on November 11, 1918.

Community Volunteers from the 2520 Tonbridge Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets attached the poppies to form the carpet under the leadership of Pilot Officer Tom Bristow.

The project was organised by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and the Mayor, Roger Dalton, greeted the exhibition.

“What an amazing creation,” he said. “This has been a wonderful community project and it is spectacular to look at.”

The statues, which are made out of poppies and white flowers pinned to wire frames, were the brainchild of Pam Mills, deputy organiser of the Tonbridge Poppy Appeal and a keen local historian.

STALWART of The Boys’ Brigade Henry Austin has been awarded a British Empire Medal by the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Viscount De L’Isle, at Penshurst Place (pictured).

Mr Austin, 70, has given 47 years as a volunteer for the organisation and has held more than a dozen positions in the Tonbridge and North West Kent Battalions.

He joined the 2nd Tonbridge Brigade in 1970, and by the time he became a Vice-President, he has supported 15 Boys’ Brigades, managing property and mentoring new captains.

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“These are the faceless heroines of World War I,” she said. “They have no heads, you don’t know who they are.

“These women rarely have a mention, but today we will remember them.”

She added: “Without these women, I can assure you that the war would never have been won.”

The statues were created over a period of eight months by Hillview’s Jazmine Bartram, Roseanne Eames, Heather Maxwell, Alice Dewey and Rachael Garaty.

Roseanne said: “We came up with the form of the body to make the shape of the statues.

Where to see the tributes  The knitted poppy carpet will be

displayed in the Tonbridge Gateway until November 5, then in the reception area at the council’s Kings Hill offices until Remembrance Sunday, November 12, when it will be moved to the Royal British Legion Industries Gardens in Aylesford.  The Women in War sculptures will remain on display near the Cannon Lawn of Tonbridge Castle.

Honour for half a century helping Boys’ Brigade

CONTACTS

GENERAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk

THE ART OF WAR Hillview’s artists and Guy Portelli (right) with one of their three statues

We weren’t really talented at working with chicken wire – but we are now!

“Pam showed us photos of the women and we learned about the history and the symbols – what they meant. It’s something that’s been brushed over until now.”

The project was supported by Kent County Council’s Community Engagement Fund, South Tonbridge Women’s Institute and Tonbridge Old Fire Station.

Tom Tugendhat, the MP for Tonbridge & Malling, addressed the crowd who gathered on Castle Lawn, saying: “For a thousand years men have formed up on this patch to go to war. People have readied themselves for the trials and tribulations to come.”

The former soldier, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, added: “It reminds us of the thousand years of history that binds our community together.

“We have so much in common, we are so much better united.”

He was instrumental in the inclusion of girls – which saw ten of them achieve The Queen’s Badge, the highest honour available.

Mr Austin, who also runs canoeing sessions at the Water Activity Centre in Barden Road, said: “I’m humbled and so grateful to be recognised for something I’ve dedicated my whole life to. It really has been my vocation.

“When I hear 40-year-old men, who I worked with as boys, thank me for helping them find their moral compass, it makes you tremble up your back to think of the impact you’ve had.”

Wand-makers: Wood you believe it?

THE wild woods of Tonbridge & Malling Borough were featured in a BBC television programme to celebrate 20 years since the publication of the first Harry Potter novel.

In Harry Potter: A History of Magic, which was shown on BBC2 on Saturday and is still available on iPlayer, two Kentish wand-makers were seen touring Holly Hill forest looking for mystical wood for their magical staffs.

Dusty Miller father and son, from Strood, are among very few professional livewood workers in the UK, and use the land between Vigo and Snodland to find their materials.

The long line of family craftsmen goes back hundreds of years and the Millers have the same given name handed down from one generation to the next.

Dusty XIV explained: “We work for the tree spirits so they tell us where to go to collect a piece of wood and which tree to collect it from.

“It’s all very complicated and often involves

OLD FAMILIARS Dusty Millers XIV and XIII getting up in the middle of the night to be in the forest at daybreak.

“Why it always has to be daybreak I don’t know. Why can’t it be lunchtime?” he asked.

“Trees don’t have lunch,” retorted his father, Dusty XIII. The Millers sell their wands all over the world for a variety of magical and healing purposes.

Local News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NEWS IN BRIEF

Police pledge to support Remembrance Day… KENT Police has said it will continue to support Remembrance Sunday events throughout the county. Some other forces have withdrawn support.

Services on November 12 in Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Paddock Wood will all have officers on duty.

A spokesman said: “Traffic management is the responsibility of the parade organisers and we will continue to provide support and guidance.”

Since 2004 responsibility for road closures has fallen on local authorities but police have largely continued to help run events.

Fireworks a cracker THE FIREWORKS display at Dunorlan Park is close to a selling out with relatively few tickets left.

Tunbridge Wells Round Table has organised the 60th annual display, which this year will be held on Saturday (November 4) with doors opening at 5.30pm and the first fireworks at 7pm.

Adult tickets are £6 in advance while children’s tickets are £4. On the door tickets are priced at £8 for adults and £5 for children.

Round Table member Andrew Mockford said: “To hold the event in front of a full capacity would be great, so far sales have been very strong.”

For online bookings visit: www.rtwrt.org/

Big bike ride down A21 THE Tonbridge Bicycle Users Group [TBUG] will be staging a group cycle along the cycle path next to the new dual carriageway of the A21 between Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells on November 5.

TBUG will meet at the Vauxhall Inn on Pembury Road in Tonbridge at 10.30am and return there afterwards for refreshments. All ages and abilities are welcome to join in.

Fran Long said: “The ride aims to celebrate this lovely new stretch of cycle path, and to encourage people to think about how it could be connected to Tonbridge town centre and railway station. Highways England have allocated £415,000 for this work.”

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Absent councillor holds on to his seat and his £5,500 in expenses

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk A TUNBRIDGE Wells councillor has moved to Norfolk and insisted on keeping his seat and his £5,500-a-year allowance.

Councillor Peter Bulman, who represents Park ward, moved to the county 130 miles away in September but has no intention of giving up his seat in the immediate future.

The Conservative was elected last year and promised to attend meetings while dealing with his constituents inquiries by email and phone.

“I can still serve my constituents by email and phone and there is nothing I have stopped OUT OF TOWN Councillor Peter Bulman

doing. I have not noticed a difference in the feeling locally and I have not seen any backlash.”

“I would like to see issues through,” he continued. “I have been actively campaigning against the Civic Complex and I would not want to stop this. I would feel like I had let them down.

Councillor Bulman confirmed he will collect his £5,500 a year allowance but will pay for travel to council meetings himself.

“My allowance is being used in the same way it was before,” he said.

Fellow Park ward representative Councillor Catherine Rankin said: “It is not an ideal situation but because he represents residents and attends Opportunity the required council meetings it should not “But I am intending to stand down before be an impediment for him to carry on his the next election [in 2020]. I would not be duties. allowed to stand again, I would give some“He has never lived in Park ward, so there one else the opportunity to pick up and start is not much of a change. A few people have over.” mentioned it, but I feel as long as he is fulfillSince May Councillor Bulman has attended ing what’s expected it is not relevant.” three out of four Borough Council meetings.

Councillor Rankin expressed a preference He sent his apologies for missing a Licensfor Councillor Bulman’s seat to be redising Committee meeting on June 6. tributed at the time of the 2018 ward He said that when he was elected in elections as a stand-alone by-election 2016 he had ‘no idea’ he would move to could cost the public purse.

Norfolk, but could not specify when “It’s right that he stands down in he would leave his post, other than time and that a by-election is held at a that it would be before when he is due time that is most economical,” she Catherine Rankin for election in 2020. added.

Ten days of rail disruption over the Christmas period Jonathan Banks RAIL travellers are facing a challenging time over the Christmas period with the news there will be ten days of disruption to services.

A mixture of bus links, reduced services and closed stations in the capital will be in place from December 23 to January 1 as National Rail continue to rebuild London Bridge.

London Bridge, along with Charing Cross, Cannon Street and Waterloo East, will be closed for the duration – leaving Victoria and Blackfriars to share the burden.

Southeastern, franchise holder for the line, has advised customers to plan ahead as on December 23 and Christmas Eve there will only be rail replace-

ment buses between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks.

And on New Years’ Eve and New Years’ Day passengers from Tunbridge Wells will need to change at Tonbridge to travel onto Victoria.

There will be no services at all on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. In addition Southern Rail has confirmed there will be a rail replacement bus service over the ten day period between Tonbridge and Redhill.

Throughout the period there will be generally revised timetables with far fewer train services.

The improvement works are all part of the Thameslink Programme which is designed to improve connections, provide more reliable journeys, increase capacity at stations and lengthen trains.

A spokesman said: “The Thameslink Programme will transform north-south travel through London and help us meet the huge rise in demand from passengers.

“We are providing improved connections giving you better travel options to more destinations.”

To find out the full schedule of changes, type ‘Thameslink Programme Closures’ into a search engine online.

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Local News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NSPCC praises victims for helping to send the Rusthall rapist to jail William Mata

will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk VICTIMS have been praised for their ‘immense courage’ in speaking out against rapist Chiron Hutchinson who was last week sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The former public schoolboy, 20, of Mount Pleasant Road, Uckfield, was described as “aggressive, dangerous and predatory” after his sentencing on Wednesday (October 25).

A jury at Maidstone Crown Court previously found him guilty of raping a woman in Tunbridge Wells twice on October 2 last year and then raping a woman in Harmony Street, Rusthall, on October 8.

Hutchinson previously admitted to two offences of unlawful sexual activity in relation to a teenage girl but was acquitted of further charges.

Courage Judge Mark Dennis QC sentenced him to 20 years in prison with a further eight years on licence, as part of a suspended sentence. It is understood he will serve at least 12 years.

A spokesman from The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) said: “This is a shocking case in which Hutchinson carried out a series of sexual attacks with a child among his victims.

“Each has shown immense courage in speaking out about their ordeals and ensuring that Hutchinson is now facing the consequences of his crimes.”

Maidstone Crown Court previously heard Hutchinson, who attended St Bede’s School in Hailsham, lied about being a stockbroker and owning a flat in London. In reality he lived with his mother.

Detective chief inspector Tony Pledger, of Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: “Chiron Hutchinson is an aggressive, dangerous and predatory sex offender.

“He forced his victims to endure some truly harrowing ordeals, committing a number of very serious sexual offences within a period of just one month.”

Hutchinson was arrested on October 12, following the Rusthall rape and the Kent Police investigation led to other victims coming forward.

He was found guilty at the same court in September.

DC Pledger added: “These victims have subse-

FESTIVE FUN Families enjoying the ice rink

AGGRESSIVE Chiron Hutchinson has been jailed for 20 years quently shown tremendous courage to give evidence in court and ensure Hutchinson is now serving a lengthy prison sentence.

“Without their bravery I have no doubt Hutchinson would have remained a persistent and significant threat to any young women who may have encountered him.”

HOW A MODEL LIAR BECAME A CONVICTED RAPIST AN ASPIRING model and actor, Chiron Hutchinson tried to impress women by claiming he was a London-based stockbroker.

The 20-year-old was arrested when he was still a teenager in October last year and was remanded in custody in Elmley Prison on the Isle of Sheppey.

During his trial, Hutchinson boasted about having a “good understanding of women,” but was ultimately convicted of three rapes on two women in Tunbridge Wells.

In the first attack, he drove his 17-year-old victim who he had met at MooMoo night club to a wooded area outside of Tunbridge Wells and proceeded to rape her twice.

In the second instance he offered to drive an intoxicated woman home in his mother’s car only to park up by Toad Rocks in Rusthall, push her out of the vehicle and attack her.

Time to get your skates on as town’s popular rink reopens AUTUMN leaves in Calverley Grounds are about to make way for a winter wonderland with the return of the town’s popular ice rink.

Online booking has now opened for the attraction, which last year was used by 39,000, the highest ever number.

Regular fixture The rink, which is funded by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC), is open every day except Christmas Day from Friday, November 17, to Monday, January 1.

Councillor Jane March, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Leisure, said: “The rink is now a regular fixture in the Tunbridge Wells Christmas

calendar.

“It is definitely something you should include in your festive plans, whether you’re a skater or just enjoy watching and taking in the atmosphere you’ll have a great time.”

This year is the seventh time the rink has been in use. Last year figure skaters from Gillingham Silver Blades performed at the opening. Details of any launch event this year have yet to be confirmed.

Regular sessions, costing £14 for adults and £9.50 for children aged four to 15, are held most hours from 11am to 8pm with parent and toddler sessions held daily at 9.45am.

Book tickets online at http://www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com/

Local News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NEWS IN BRIEF

Ex-teacher found guilty of sexual abuse faces jail A FORMER teacher from Cranbrook, Geoffrey Oborn faces jail for sexually assaulting pupils in their own homes in the 1980s.

The 79-year-old was found guilty of 13 offences of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday, October 24.

Oborn taught at Dulwich College Preparatory School and was arrested last year after allegations were made by two women he home tutored. The offences took place between 1981 and 1985. He will be sentenced at the same court on December 1.

Detective constable Annie Lefebvre said: “Oborn was responsible for predatory abuse against children. He placed adverts in the local press to help find potential victims and then abused his position of trust for his own sexual gratification.”

Complaints about G4S MORE than 1,700 complaints were made in Kent last year about the performance of private ambulance firm G4S. Medway Clinical Commissioning Group (MCCG) has echoed calls by Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark for the firm, which took over the £90million contract in July 2016, to urgently improve.

After disclosing 1,774 complaints were made in 12 months, an MCCG spokesman said: “The commissioners sought urgent action to rectify the common themes emerging from complaints and to improve the complaints process so they are managed.”

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Fears about ‘quality of life’ take off as plans revealed for a second runway

By William Mata

will@timesoftunbridgewellsco.uk THE prospect of a second runway at Gatwick – something that would have a significant impact across West Kent – is back on the agenda.

The move comes after a public consultation into the planned third runway at Heathrow Airport was reopened last week following the publication, by the Department for Transport (DfT), of a report on its environmental impact.

‘The nearby villages and countryside will lose any sense of tranquillity’ The DfT considers the West Sussex airport a less environmentally damaging choice than Gatwick.

Gatwick itself has also announced it will seek to build a second runway.

A spokesman said: “It is clear that demand for further airport capacity in the South East continues to grow.

“That’s why we have reiterated our pledge to Government to build a second runway at Gatwick regardless of what happens at Heathrow.”

If there is no expansion the two airports are in line to reach maximum

capacity by 2034. The consultation closed in May but will now last until December.

Complaints of noise and pollution from planes travelling to Gatwick have already been raised by residents of Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas.

The Chair of Tunbridge Wells Anti-Aircraft Noise Group (TWAANG), Irene Fairburn, said: “Another runway at Gatwick would mean a huge increase in low flying planes 24 hours a day over Tunbridge Wells.

“The nearby villages and countryside will lose any sense of tranquillity. Put simply a second runway would destroy the quality of life in this corner of the south east.

“There will be severe road and rail congestion plus an estimated influx of around 63,000 people needed to build and run the airport.”

She added that the M25 would not be able to cope with an increase in traffic if both Gatwick and Heathrow were expanded.

MP Greg Clark said aircraft noise is problematic in the town and feels the original choice of Heathrow is the better option.

“The new runway should be at Heathrow. That was the clear and unambiguous recommendation after an exhaustive inquiry.”

SKY’S THE LIMIT Gatwick wants a second runway

RUNWAY WOULD ‘BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY’ A SPOKESMAN from Gatwick Airport has explained ‘thousands of jobs and apprenticeships’ will be born from a second runway.

The project is expected to boost the local economy but has come under-fire from campaign groups.

Responding to a Times request for comment the spokesman said: “We believe expansion at Gatwick would bring a huge boost for the local economy, including

thousands of jobs, apprenticeships and opportunities for local businesses for years to come.

“If the Government give us the green light to build a second runway, we would work with local authorities to maximise the benefits for local residents and communities, while doing everything we can to minimise and mitigate against any potential negative impacts.”

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Local News

Chapel Place butcher pleads not guilty to three hygiene charges ONE of the town’s most popular butchers, Peter Speaight, has appeared in court where he denied three charges relating to food hygiene.

The 57-year-old from Lamberhurst, who operates the Chapel Place business that carries his name, pleaded not guilty to one charge of failing to comply with a hygiene improvement notice and not guilty to two other charges of failing to comply with EU provisions concerning food safety and hygiene.

He appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates Court where the case was adjourned until next March.

His lawyer said: “The defendant will be called to give evidence and there are two other witnesses. I also understand there is likely to be evidence from an expert.”

Last year Peter Speaight Butchers were awarded membership of the National Butchers Q Guild joining an exclusive group of 120 award-winning independent butchers across the UK. The guild’s describes the award as a ‘seal of excellence’.

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Board game leaves nothing to chance as it passes ‘go’ at launch

By William Mata

will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk STREETS and landmarks of Tunbridge Wells are now on sale within the town’s own version of the world famous board game Monopoly.

Town Crier John Scholey joined Mayor Julia Soyke and brand mascot Mr Monopoly on Thursday (October 26) to launch the localised edition on The Pantiles – which has been made the most expensive square in the game.

Following on from the classic London, Paris and New York

versions, the Tunbridge Wells board is now on sale for £30.

After 2,000 people responded to a vote on what squares and products to include on the board, game owners Winning Moves showcased the design at the red-carpet event at Royal Tunbridge Wells Hotel.

Robert Osborne, company sales executive, said after creating a Canterbury version last year making a Tunbridge Wells edition “just felt right”.

“It is a beautiful town and seemed a good fit for us, it was a popular suggestion and we had enough ideas for roads and businesses to fill two or three boards.

Addresses include High Street,

Royal Victoria Place and Tunbridge Wells railway station but keep an eye out for your favourite local newspaper the Times and sister publication SO Magazine.

Mayor Julia Soyke said: “The game raises the profile of Tunbridge Wells even further after the town was voted the fifth happiest nationally.

“It is a nice thing for families and I’ll certainly be playing the game

with mine come Christmas time.”

Jack Roberts and Flora Donaldson, two pupils from Claremont Primary School in Tunbridge Wells, were chosen to read a poem at the ceremony before former mayor David Neve gave a pun-ridden speech while wearing a London A-Z themed suit.

“Monopoly has had a changing format right from the word go,” he quipped.

 The Times is giving away 20 copies of this much prized Royal Tunbridge

Wells Edition. All you have to do is email us with your name and address and mark it MONOPOLY… info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Winners will be drawn at random.

SHOP FRONT

 No alternative prizes are available and the Editor’s decision is final.

The closing date is Monday, November 6.

MONEY MEN: Gavin Tyler, managing partner of law firm Cripps - who have a space on the board, with town crier John Scholey and the Monopoly Man

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BUSINESS

Local Business News

Coffee shop closes as market saturates STARBUCKS has left Tunbridge Wells after 16 years of trading in the Calverley Road precinct.

The café served its last customer on Sunday [October 29] as the coffee shop industry as a whole reports that growth has stalled.

Fans of Starbucks will now find their nearest branch in Tonbridge, where Tunbridge Wells staff have reportedly been offered jobs.

A spokesman said: “We would like to thank our customers and the local community for their support.

“For our regular customers, the nearest Starbucks is on Tonbridge High Street.”

Last week, rival chain Costa reported a 0.1 per cent rise in sales, having seen 7 per cent in 2014.

The brand still has a presence in Tunbridge Wells, as does Caffè Nero and Pret a Manger.

However, Costa’s performance has been touted by industry experts as a sign coffee drinkers could be increasingly turning towards independent cafés.

Alison Brittain, Chief Executive of Whitbread – the group which owns the Costa chain, said Britain was now entering its ‘third wave of coffee’.

“Coffee lovers are developing more sophisticated tastes and are willing to spend more per cup for higher quality and innovative drinks,” she said.

CHANGING BLEND Starbucks has left Tunbridge Wells

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY

NEWS IN BRIEF

Councillor becomes partner at law firm

Businesses to be briefed on how to grow exports post Brexit…

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

THE Department for International Trade [DIT] is to give post-Brexit business advice at an event in Tunbridge Wells next month.

West Kent companies are invited to the festive breakfast, called Ready, Set, Export, for a chance to network and hear advice and tips on how to grow new markets overseas Town MP Greg Clark, who is also the Business Minister, will open the event at One Warwick Park Hotel on Friday, December 15, from 8am.

Attendees will also have the chance to hear financial experts lead a session on overcoming any

uncertainty surrounding Brexit.

Rob Lewtas, Strategic Partner Manager for DIT, said: “This event will provide valuable insights and advice to maximise sales potential and minimise risks in foreign markets.

Specialist “It will be insightful whether you are a seasoned exporter looking to diversify your markets or a business aiming to sell products or services overseas for the first time.”

DIT experts will be joined by professionals from Tunbridge Wells law firm Cripps, accountancy and tax company RSM and Brookes, who specialise in intellectual property.

They will be delivering a series of rapid-fire sessions on their specialist areas to help attendees prepare and safeguard plans for overseas growth.

The event will close with a question and answer session followed by networking with partners and specialists.

Mr Lewtas added: “The session is also exciting for us as it marks the launch of our new support package.

“This will allow businesses in West Kent to access financial assistance to help fund development and sales activity.”

Tickets are free and are available online by visiting the following website and searching for ‘The Department for International Trade’: www.eventbrite.co.uk

LAW firm Warners Solicitors has recruited a Tonbridge & Malling Borough Councillor as their senior partner.

Conservative Mark Davis, who represents Cage Green ward, will combine his political duties with leading the strategy of the practice, which has offices in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge.

Web tool for students STUDENTS of art history can take inspiration from an online resource produced by a Tunbridge Wells-based web designer.

Yoyo, a business in Calverley Road, formed a partnership with the Open University to create Travelling Objects, and it is available for anyone to access through the website Open Learn.

The resource features information on artefacts dating back as far as 250BC, alongside images, archive video and audio footage.

Burger brand return?

FAST food eatery Wimpy, known for its burgers, could return to more high streets next year after years of decline.

The restaurant in Tunbridge Wells was one of many to close as the chain reduced from 500 branches to 80, with just six left in Kent.

Wimpy’s leadership has kept details of the rumoured 2018 return to a minimum, but a spokesman said: “We do have some exciting new plans in terms of continued expansion and an investment programme.”

Local Business News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Inflation rise seen as a threat THE effects of inflation hitting a five-year high will be felt locally, a financial expert has warned.

Consumer Prices Index data released by the Office for National Statistics [ONS] last week showed a rise of three per cent.

This increase, the steepest felt since 2012, could be good news for those claiming state pension as the benefit will rise accordingly next April under the government’s triple lock guarantee.

But Gary Jefferies, Director of Tunbridge Wells firm Panoramic Wealth Management, said the financial landscape could force people to commute to London with less opportunity to work locally.

“The impact of Brexit’s deprecation of sterling is beginning to have an impact on inflation, which is biting

with higher food and fuel bills,” he said.

“Inflation will affect all areas of our local community, however, the impact on the younger generations will be more marked as their incomes in recent years have been depressed, and for those not commuting, choice of local jobs is limited.

“Many of the local positions available are lower paid and are unlikely to provide sufficient means to allow living independently of parents.”

Mr Jefferies continued: “The younger generation are incurring debt for essential living costs, with some using credit cards, which is not sustainable.

“The impact on the town could be that we experience even more people commuting, looking to earn sufficient income to make ends meet.”

IN THE KNOW Gary Jefferies, of Tunbridge Wells firm Panoramic Wealth Management

Advertising agency wins celebrity endorsement RIVER COTTAGE chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall has endorsed a Tunbridge Wells creative agency’s campaign for The Food Foundation. ifour, based in The Pantiles, will promote the ‘Peas Please’ media drive to encourage healthy eating after winning a competition.

Graeme Hall, Director of the firm, created a poster which was selected above several creative designs to promote

CREATIVE ifour healthy eating design

the eating of vegetables.

His work, showing a boy enjoying carrots and using them to throw a Batman-like shadow, will now feature on billboards and in print nationally.

Mr Fearnley-Whittingstall backs the campaign, which focuses on the effective promotion of healthy alternatives in a landscape where £250million is spent annually on advertising junk food.

BUSINESS

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Community

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Sporting heroes on teamsheet to support Tree of Hope lunch

By Andy Tong

newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk CHILDREN’S charity Tree of Hope kicked off the celebrations for its 25th anniversary with a Sporting Heroes Lunch at The Spa Hotel in Tunbridge Wells.

Former Kent and England cricket captain Chris Cowdrey also acted as MC for the event, while the three other heroes were legendary Olympic figure skater Jayne Torvill and two British & Lions rugby players, John Taylor of Wales and England’s Rob Andrew.

Tree of Hope, based in Tonbridge, supports the families of seriously ill and disabled children who need specialist medical treatment, therapy and equipment which is not available on the NHS.

There was a live and silent auction during the lunch which raised over £10,000.

Ms Gibb said: “We are delighted with the support we received from everyone who attended the Sporting Heroes lunch and for helping it to be a great success.

“A special thank you also goes out to all our Sporting Heroes who provided the audience with some great anecdotes and made the lunch even more special.”

Chris Cowdrey commented: “As someone

Tots & Co celebrates 40 years of toddlers THE Tots & Co toddler group at St Philip’s Church, Tonbridge, celebrated its 40th birthday last month by holding a tea party for previous leaders, helpers and families.

Liz Wood, who has been running the group for 17 years, said: “It was lovely for leaders to be reunited after many years and to meet up with previous families again.

Lifesaving Gill Gibb, Chief Executive of Tree of Hope, told the story of two children the charity supports: 17-year-old Kelly Turner, who has a rare form of cancer and is raising money for a lifesaving operation in New York which is not available through the UK healthcare system; and three-year-old Harmonie-Rose Allen, a quadruple amputee who has funds to provide a lifetime of prosthetic limbs as she grows.

living locally and the father of twin boys, I have been aware for some time of the tremendous work Tree of Hope does to raise funds for children suffering from a disability or illness.

“All children are incredibly special, and I wanted to pledge my support in whatever way I could to help this amazing charity to continue their great work.”

To find out more about Tree of Hope, go to www.treeofhope.org.uk

FOREVER YOUNG Tots organisers past and present

Flourished

IN THE LINEOUT (L-R) Rob Andrew, John Taylor, Jayne Torvill, Tree of Hope’s Gill Gibb and Chris Cowdrey

“We had a fun time making an autumn leaf wreath, bouncing balls in the autumn wind on a parachute and singing songs together.”

The group for under-fives was formerly known as Mums & Toddlers, based at Cage Green Church, and Linda Beesley, who set up the original group in 1977, came to the party.

Linda said: “It was lovely to be at Tots’ 40th and to see such an amazing group. It has grown and flourished under Liz’s amazing leadership and enthusiasm.

“It’s a lovely safe haven for mums and children,” she added, “especially needed if mums are feeling frazzled!”

Mother Lucy Bullett added to the tributes, saying: “I loved Tots because it was so small and friendly.

We miss coming here.”

She added: “As we used to help set up, my little boy came to feel a real sense of belonging and was delighted to help get the toys out and put them away at the end, and it gave him a clear sense of responsibility, which he loved!”

Tots & Co meets at St Philip’s Church, Salisbury Road, Tonbridge on Wednesdays from 1.15-2.45pm.

Community

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Shoeboxes full of Christmas cheer will help brighten children’s lives

By Andy Tong THE figures are remarkable. The happiness brought

by Operation Christmas Child [OCC] is incalculable. Last year more than 11 million children around the world who live in conditions of suffering and deprivation had a smile brought to their faces by a festive shoebox full of donated goodies.

Tonbridge alone sent 28,000 boxes to underprivileged youths in Swaziland and Eastern Europe.

This year, the Samaritans Purse International [SPI] hope to generate the same interest locally for the cause, and they would like your help.

It all started in 1990, when a family in Wrexham saw images of the dreadful conditions of children

‘Every recipient could, for the first time in their lives, have something to call their own’ in orphanages in Romania which were shown on television after the country’s dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu, fell from power.

The father and his friends decided to drive to the Eastern European country with vanloads of gifts for those suffering orphans. The following year, the family had the idea of sending gift-wrapped shoeboxes filled with practical gifts, one for each child.

Madeleine McClintock, an OCC volunteer in Tonbridge, said: “Every recipient could, for the first time in their lives, have something to call their own.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX? Girls in Namibia open their shoeboxes

Ethos Organiser Sophie Quinnel said: “We believe each of these organisations are perfectly aligned to our ethos of building communities without barriers.”

She added: “We wish to thank the residents of Tonbridge for their continued support, the bands for performing free, the food and drink vendors who contributed to our funds, and the wonderful 40 volunteers who ensured a peaceful fun event.”

Next year’s TC18 will be held on August 4. For information, contact: tonbridgecalling@gmail.com

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Shoebox drop-off points TUNBRIDGE WELLS  Christchurch/Manna Café,

High Street TN1 1UT Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-6.30pm  Christchurch

85 Prospect Road, Southborough TN4 0EG Mon, Thur, Fri 9am-1pm  Tunbridge Wells Baptist Church

Upper Grosvenor Road TN1 2EP Mornings only

TONBRIDGE  Tonbridge Baptist Church

Dareth Avenue TN10 3HZ Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm and some evenings, Sun 9.30-11.30am and 6pm-8pm  Shoe Zone

“Many people heard of this project and wanted to join in, and Operation Christmas Child was born.”

If you would like to take part in this extraordinary venture, simply obtain a lady’s size shoebox, cover it with wrapping paper, fill it with a few pieces of stationery such as pens and paper, some hygiene items, a woolly hat or similar, and a toy.

Add £5 for postage, put an elastic band round it and take it to a drop-off point, such as a Shoe Zone in Tonbridge High Street’s Pavilion Centre, from November 1 to 18.

Madeleine said: “Recently a lady from Central Asia told me that she had been delivering a course on family health, but one mother exclaimed that

she and her five children only had one toothbrush amongst them. This is not uncommon in many poor families around the world. Ash and sticks are used instead.

“Shortly after this, a consignment of OCC boxes arrived containing – among other items – toothbrushes. Each member of the family could now have their own toothbrush, and the pens and paper in the box could enable other children to attend school.”

Madeleine added: “In 2005 I was invited to go to Mozambique to help distribute shoeboxes. I watched hundreds of children in one school line up to receive their OCC boxes, then sit in the dust until the teacher counted down: Three, two, one…

5 Pavilion Centre, High Street TN9 1TE Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm  St John’s Church Hall, Hildenborough

Tonbridge Road TN11 9HR Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 9am-12noon The lids came off, the ecstatic shouts filled the air!

“Why not have the fun of joining in by packing a shoebox yourself?”

Helpful information, for example about how to pack a shoebox and find drop-off points, and details of other projects run by the SPI and OCC such as Raising Families, can be found on the website www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/what-we-do/ operation-christmas-child

Tonbridge Calling raises its voice for four local charities COMMUNITY event Tonbridge Calling has raised £600 from its summer TC17 free music festival, which will be split between four local charities.

The second staging of the event sees proceeds going to Nourish Community Foodbank, Tonbridge Welcomes Refugees, The School Bus Project – which aims to protect the right to education for refugees and vulnerable migrants across Europe – and the homeless charity Porchlight.

NEWS

HOME HELP (L-R) Tonbridge Calling’s Mark Hood with Porchlight caseworker Fee Stocker and TC’s Faydra Mitchell

A FINE SPELL: The charity’s volunteers and nursing staff

‘Outstanding’ service from ellenor KENT charity ellenor has been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission [CQC].

For 30 years, ellenor has provided end-of-life, cancer and respite care to people of all ages in the hospice or in the comfort of their own home.

Inspectors praised its caring and responsive services and reported that patients had told them ‘staff relationships were valued and they went the extra mile when providing care and support’.

They also highlighted that ‘the service provided outstanding end of life care’, where children and adults were able to experience ‘a comfortable, dignified and pain-free death in the

place of their choice when possible’.

Claire Cardy, Chief Executive for ellenor, said: “We are delighted to have received this Outstanding rating, the highest that the regulator can award. This is testament to the dedication of our fantastic team of expert staff and volunteers.

“We regularly receive positive feedback from our patients and their families, but it’s a huge accolade to have the quality of care and compassion recognised by this inspection, too.

“Our ethos is always to provide the best quality personalised care and support and enable families to make the most of the time they have together.”

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NEWS

Local News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

‘Spending tens of millions on keeping the town hall seems poor value for money’ In the second of her articles putting the case for the new Civic Complex and theatre on land adjoining Calverley Grounds, Cllr Tracy Moore argues the need for investing in Tunbridge Wells. She is playing the lead role in pressing the council’s arguments for the £72million development LAST week I wrote of the vision of the civic development project, as well as the 100-year history of some elements within Tunbridge Wells resisting change. This week I want to make the case for investment and ignite the imagination of what options could be realised for the future of the existing town hall.

‘There are real economic, societal and health and wellbeing benefits to investment in culture’ TWBC will vote on December 6 whether to proceed to the next stage of its plans for an investment in the civic development in Royal Tunbridge Wells of a new 1200 seat theatre, civic centre, new office space to let, new underground car park for 260 cars and a new public square at the entrance to Calverley Grounds.

There are many reasons why the council is pursuing this exciting project. We would like to build on Tunbridge Wells’ 400-year-old reputation as a destination town – in 1606 Dudley, Lord North discovered the “healing properties” of the spa waters of the Chalybeate Spring. In 2014 the council adopted a cultural strategy with an ambitious ten-year vision “to grow our role as the cultural centre of the Kent and Sussex High Weald, so that by 2024 the Borough of Tunbridge Wells is nationally recognised for its vibrant cultural provision.” I see the new theatre as an essential ingredient to realising this aspiration.

There is a real opportunity for wonderful synergies between a new theatre, Trinity Theatre, the Forum and other cultural festivals and events. These cultural venues drive footfall, increased dwell time and increased customer spend and in turn support the leisure and retail economy. In

Local News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

July 2014 the University of Southampton, together with the Economic and Social Research Council and the Great British High Street, published their High Street Performance and Evaluation report. They concluded that a thriving night-time economy, which a theatre will deliver, helps to support the high street.

If a further incentive to grow the local economy was needed it is provided by the Government’s intention for local councils to keep any growth in Business Rates.

The council currently is allowed to keep only 4p of any £1 of Business Rates.

Retaining fruits of growth creates a virtuous cycle – where we can continue to invest in essential and discretionary services that residents enjoy. The civic development also presents the opportunity to deliver modern office accommodation, which is sorely needed in Tunbridge Wells as many offices have recently been converted to residential. Planning rules outside the council’s control allow this to happen but it leaves a dearth of supply for growing businesses.

There are real economic, societal and health and wellbeing benefits to investment in culture. Arts and culture boost local economies by attracting visitors, creating jobs and developing skills, attracting and retaining businesses, revitalising places and developing talent.

The Shellard formula, used by theatres across the UK to establish their economic impact on local and national economies, estimates an additional 14 million pound per annum benefit to our local economy of the new theatre. There is also strong

evidence that participation in the arts can reduce societal inclusion and isolation and make communities feel safer and stronger.

Indeed the potential to improve the accessibility of a top quality cultural programme for our residents is a strong motivation for me. In July 2017 the AllParty Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing published their inquiry report titled Creative Health: The Arts for Health and Wellbeing. Their key messages were that the arts can help keep us well, can help us meet major challenges facing health and social care and the arts can help save money in the health service and social care. Those who attended a cultural place or event in the previous 12 months were almost 60% more likely to report good health compared to those who had not and theatre-

‘The council has conducted soft market testing for three potential new uses for the existing town hall’ goers were almost 25% more likely to report good health. I became a councillor because I care deeply about my local community. The economic, societal and health benefits of an investment in culture are well researched.

The opportunity to repurpose the existing town hall and Assembly Hall for the 21st century is another driver to the civic development. While some prefer the ‘no

change’ option of refurbishing these buildings for the council, I do not feel that is the low-risk, low-cost option some are advocating.

The town hall is over 40,000 square feet and in the proposed new office building the council intends to occupy only 12,000 square feet. To spend tens of millions on the town hall, all paid for through borrowing, for a building too large for our needs seems poor value for money. The estimates of over £10million do not include the costs of decanting the council to temporary offices while refurbishment works take place. To refurbish the Assembly Hall would cost over £30million and would close the theatre for at least three years. That work would have to be paid for from borrowings, the theatre would still be a compromised space not fit for large touring productions and the local community groups have been clear that many would fold if the theatre closed for three years. A new civic centre ensures continuity of theatre provision and a purpose built theatre capable of hosting a significantly improved programming mix, as well as right-size and more efficient offices for the council.

The council has conducted soft market testing for three potential new uses for the existing town hall. The three uses include residential, educational/medical use, and flexible office for the creative sector. It is clear the market is interested in residential but the other two uses deserve further exploration to deliver further a place-making agenda. There is a real opportunity to future-proof Tunbridge Wells by enabling a repurposing of these buildings to provide 21st century employment space for the jobs of the future. It is exciting to think that the council could enable the already successful creative sector in Tunbridge Wells to really thrive in a cluster.

The Economist (October 21 2017) reported in a briefing on ‘Left-behind places’ that “firms...often do better when they are close together.” Indeed the experience of firms in Rohan Silva’s Second Home developments grow ten times faster than the national average, as a result of the dynamics of being in a cluster. As the Economist notes, “where there are a lot firms and workers, new ideas are spawned and spread”. If the council votes to proceed with the civic development in December, then we will have a timetable to work towards and it would be appropriate to pursue the options for the future of the town hall through the RIBA stages. Then that decision-making process can follow the same rigorous, robust and transparent process that the civic development has followed.

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County News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Final curtain call for director who steered Marlowe Theatre to success

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE director who oversaw The Marlowe’s transformation to a 1,200-seat theatre has retired.

Mark Everett, 65, left his post on Friday [October 27] after 23 years at the helm of the Canterbury

venue, which he helped turn into one of Kent’s most thriving theatres.

With its large stage attracting West End productions, and its Studio hosting smaller performances, The Marlowe is often quoted as an inspiration for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s plan to replace The Assembly Hall.

Mr Everett played a key role in Canterbury City

STAR APPEAL Canterbury-born actor Orlando Bloom with Mark Everett

Council’s redevelopment scheme from 2009 to 2011, which saw the theatre grow from 950 seats to a venue which welcomed 400,000 people last year.

He said: “Leaving is a wrench, but I believe the timing is right as many exciting developments are coming The Marlowe’s way.

‘There is an excellent opportunity for someone new to take it into the next phase of its history’ “There is an excellent opportunity for someone new to take it into the next phase of its history.”

Former General Manager Paula Gillespie will become the Acting Director of The Marlowe for the interim period following Mark’s departure.

Members of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council toured the theatre last Wednesday [October 25] as they continue to promote how such a venue could enhance a town.

Since reopening, The Marlowe has achieved record sales and attracted Glyndebourne Opera, the National Theatre, the Royal Shakespeare Company and choreographer Matthew Bourne’s dance company New Adventures.

Mr Everett added: “I have spent half my theatre career here, and there have been many extraordinary changes both at the venue and in the cultural life and profile of Canterbury.

“I am very proud to have played a part in some of these, and I am delighted that, as I leave The Marlowe, its local and national reputation has never been higher.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Views sought on £2m Paddock Wood centre AN ARCHITECT has asked residents to help shape a £2million community centre in Paddock Wood.

The town council is seeking views on the plan to build a multi-purpose venue on Memorial Field, which will include halls and outside function areas. Architect Andrew Clarke will join members of the council at Paddock Wood Library from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, November 4, to discuss ideas.

UKIP donor allegations FORMER UKIP donor Arron Banks has come under fire after allegations he may have breached electoral law.

The car insurance mogul and long-time ally of Nigel Farage reportedly paid for 20 of his employees to ferry party voters to polls in the Rochester 2014 by-election.

Mark Reckless defected to UKIP to win the constituency. The result was considered significant, with the Euro-sceptic party then in the ascendency.

Following the allegations on the BBC’s Newsnight, Mr Banks denied the expenditure was not registered by UKIP and said the party was fully notified.

Medical campus plan THE proposed Kent Medical Campus Enterprise Zone has been boosted by £4million of government funding. If the scheme is passed, 3,000 highly skilled jobs would be created at the Maidstone science park.

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National News

Prisoner fights against illicit smoking in jails A PRISONER concerned about his exposure to “second-hand” smoke is fighting at the UK’s highest court to make illicit lighting up in jails a criminal offence.

Paul Black, who suffers from a range of serious health problems, has taken his case to the Supreme Court in a bid to win what he says is the same level of protection from the risks posed by passive smoking as “non-smokers living in the wider community”.

Tuesday’s proceedings in London before a panel of five justices, headed by the court’s president Lady Hale, follow his defeat at the Court of Appeal last year.

The case centres on the 2006 Health Act which places restrictions on smoking in public places and workplaces, making it a criminal offence to smoke in an unauthorised place and also an offence for those in charge of the premises to turn a blind eye to the smoking.

Weinstein claims on the rise in UK BRITISH police in the UK investigating Harvey Weinstein are now looking at allegations of sexual assault from seven women, it has emerged.

Officers have received 11 separate allegations of sexual assault on dates ranging from the 1980s to 2015. Two are said to have taken place outside of the UK. Scotland Yard did not name Weinstein but confirmed officers from Met’s Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command are investigating allegations of sexual assault from seven victims under Operation Kaguyak.

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

House of Lords must lose 200 peers to move with the times

NEWS IN BRIEF

Four dead in New York as van targets cyclists AT LEAST four people were reportedly shot dead in New York last night after a van driver drove at cyclists and mounted the pavement near the World Trade Centre memorial.

A suspect was arrested after police responded to reports of shots fired near the West Side Highway in Lower Manhattan.

Police officers, including the bomb squad, attended the scene and several nearby buildings, including a high school, were placed on lockdown.

HMRC Brexit jobs boost SHORT TERM Peers would serve 15 years THE size of the House of Lords should be cut by a quarter to leave 600 peers, a committee has recommended.

Parties will be asked to sign up to a ‘two out, one in’ system to hit the new level in just over a decade.

New peers would serve a maximum of 15 years under the recommendations from the Lord Speaker’s committee.

Action The size of the 800-strong upper chamber would be capped at 600 and its composition would reflect general election results.

Some 150 peers would leave by 2022, but 75 new appointments would be made in that period

under the timetable set out by the committee. In the five years to 2016, 125 peers retired or died.

The recommendations come after criticism over the bloated size of the Lords and the scale of expenses claimed by some peers despite failing to speak in the chamber.

Reforms can be carried out without legislation but will need the backing of Prime Minister Theresa May and co-operation from political parties, the committee said.

Lord Speaker Lord Fowler said: “The House of Lords carries out vitally important work in holding the government of the day to account.

“However, with over 800 members - about 150 more than the Commons - we are too large.

“The time has now come to take action to correct this and put a cap on numbers for the future.”

UP TO 5,000 extra staff are to be recruited

by HM Revenue and Customs next year to deal with EU withdrawal, Brexit Secretary David Davis has told the Cabinet.

Mr Davis said the move was part of an ongoing process which had already seen nearly 3,000 posts created across Government to support Brexit efforts.

The Brexit Secretary told fellow ministers that 300 lawyers have been recruited to the Government legal department in the past year.

Sex convictions increase THE prison population in England and Wales has risen because more people are being convicted of sex-related offences who are serving longer sentences, a Justice minister has said.

Prisons and Probation minister Sam Gyimah said that given the Government’s duty to protect the public, it was “right that where these people are convicted by the courts they serve their time”.

National News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Labour activist was warned not to report rape A LABOUR activist has revealed she was raped at a party event in 2011 and felt discouraged to report it as it could have damaged her career.

Bex Bailey, 25, a former member of the party’s National Executive Committee, has called for an independent agency to be set up to deal with such issues.

Ms Bailey, who was 19 at the time of the Labour Party gathering, told the BBC she did not get the support she needed when she reported the incident to a senior official two years later.

She claimed that the Labour official warned her that taking the matter further could prove bad for her career.

Ms Bailey said the attack was not carried out by an MP, but by an individual more senior to her.

Asked if she had gone to the police, Ms Bailey said: “No, I didn’t, for all the reasons that I think a lot of women don’t report this. I was scared, I felt ashamed, I know that the Labour Party, like any family, loves a good gossip.

Serious problem “It took me a while to summon up the courage to tell anyone in the party. But, when I did, I told a senior member of staff, who told me, it was suggested to me that I not report it.

“I was told that if I did it might damage me, and that might be their genuine view, it might be that that was the case, in which case that shows that we have a serious problem in politics with this issue anyway.”

Ms Bailey added: “I wasn’t given good advice. I wasn’t given a procedure when I asked for it so that I could, sort of, see what would happen if I did report it and then make a decision.

“It seemed to be that there wasn’t one that existed and I wasn’t signposted to anyone else that could help me in terms of a charity or anything like that. I don’t think I was even given a cup of tea at the time.”

Ed Miliband, who was then the Labour leader, said he was ‘shocked by the horrific allegations’ and praised Ms Bailey for showing great bravery and courage in speaking out .

Mr Miliband added: “Victims must be supported when they come forward. These allegations must be properly investigated by the police and the Labour Party.”

NEWS

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Great British turn-off: Judge reveals winner

NUMBER CRUNCH Plans will protect children

THE Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith has apologised after accidentally revealing the show’s winner before the final was broadcast.

She tweeted the name of a winner, saying how ‘emotional’ she had found the judging process.

The tweet was deleted soon afterwards.

She wrote on Twitter: “I am so sorry to the fans of the show for my mistake this morning, I am in a different time zone and mortified by my error.”

She explained that she had been caught out by the six-hour time difference between Britain and Bhutan, where she is currently.

Bookmakers criticise plan to curb addictive casino betting games THE maximum stake on fixed-odds betting terminals (FOBTs) is set to be cut from £100 to between £50 and £2.

The high-stake, high-speed electronic casino games are said to be dangerously addictive and are described as the ‘crack cocaine’ of gambling.

They currently allow a stake of up to £100 every 20 seconds, enabling a player to theoretically gamble away £18,000 an hour.

Job losses Bookmakers fear the plan, which forms part of a package of measures announced in the Government’s gambling review, will not work and will have a negative impact on the High Street, causing job losses.

But others believe it does not go far enough, describing it as ‘deeply disappointing’ and raising concerns that the process is taking too long.

Culture minister Tracey Crouch said: “It is vital

that we strike the right balance between socially responsible growth and protecting the most vulnerable, including children, from gambling-related harm.”

Raising standards of player protection for online gambling, a responsible gambling campaign and new advertising guidelines are among a raft of suggestions designed to help minimise the risk to vulnerable people and children.

Strengthening the code on responsible gambling advertising and responsible gambling initiatives are also being considered.

A 12-week consultation is being launched on the proposals, which are aimed at reducing the potential for large losses on the machines.

The Government has also asked the Gambling Commission for more information about how better tracking and monitoring of play on FOBTs might be used to protect players.

They have also asked to see if the spin speed on games such as roulette should be looked at.

Kate’s uncle asked to be given caution THE Duchess of Cambridge’s uncle asked to be cautioned over the alleged assault of his wife, a court heard.

Gary Goldsmith is said to have attacked Julie-Ann Goldsmith outside their home on Wimpole Street in central London at around 1.20am on October 13.

Goldsmith was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday [October 31] charged with assault by beating.

Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot said: “There was a request from the defence that came in to the court for a two-week adjournment so that a caution could be looked at.”

But Katie Bryan, prosecuting, said: “We have considered caution, and we are proceeding to charge and bring this matter before the court.”

CHARGED Gary Goldsmith faces court

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BUSINESS

National Business News

NEWS IN BRIEF

Watchdog says RBS should accept findings THE head of Britain’s financial watchdog said it is ‘unfortunate’ that Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has disagreed with findings from its report over the bank’s treatment of small businesses which were shifted into its controversial Global Restructuring Group.

RBS Chief Executive Ross McEwan has written to MPs outlining a number of ‘concerns’ over the methodology and approach of the report.

But Financial Conduct Authority Chief Executive Andrew Bailey told MPs on Tuesday [October 31] that the bank should have accepted its findings.

Fashion president quits BURBERRY has confirmed that its president Christopher Bailey will step down from the board in March next year, ending his 17-year stint at the high-end fashion house.

Mr Bailey joined the company in 2001 and led the firm as chief executive from 2014 before he was succeeded by Marco Gobbetti in July, allowing him to take up the role of president and chief creative officer.

Just Eat shares climb SHARES in Just Eat have raced higher after the takeaway firm hiked its sales outlook after securing a hefty rise in third quarter revenues.

They were up more than 3 per cent on the London Stock Exchange, with the group lifting its annual revenue guidance from £500-£515 million to £515-£530 million.

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Ryanair profits rise despite its cancellation shambles BUDGET airline Ryanair will suffer a 25 million euro (£22 million) blow in the wake of its flight cancellation fiasco, but has still bolstered halfyear profits by 11 per cent.

The Irish firm said costs in its ‘sales, marketing and other’ bracket had leapt 30 per cent, as it dishes out compensation after around 700,000 customers were disrupted by cancelled flights stretching from September to March next year.

Impact The low-cost carrier has come under fire after cancelling around 20,000 flights in the autumn due to an error over pilot holiday rosters.

Pre-tax profits climbed to 1.293 billion euro (£1.139 billion) for the six months ending in September, up from 1.168 billion euro (£1.029 billion) over the period last year.

The jump was driven by a strong Easter period, helping bolster customer numbers by 11 per cent to 72.1 million.

Revenues also picked up 7 per cent to 4.425 billion euro (£3.899 billion), as it added 80 new routes and drove down air fares by 5 per cent.

However, moves to boost pilot pay could impact its full year performance by as much as 100 million euro (£88 million), the company said.

Chief Executive Michael O’Leary said: “These strong H1 results reinforce the robust nature of Rya-

nair’s low fare, pan-European growth model, even during a period which suffered a material failure in our pilot rostering function in early September.

“Prior to this event, we were on track to deliver strong H1 results during which we opened three new bases and 80 new routes.

“We took delivery of 35 new B737s in the first six months of 2017, we stimulated 11 per cent traffic growth with 5 per cent lower airfares, and achieved an industry record load factor of 97 per cent in the peak summer months.”

The Dublin-based firm stuck by its annual profit guidance, saying it saw no reason to adjust the measure from between 1.40 billion euro (£1.23 billion) and 1.45 billion euro (£1.28 billion), despite pilot rostering problems bumping up costs.

However, it said full-year traffic was now expected to slow from 131 million customers to 129 million after having to ground 25 aircraft.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Michael O’Leary

NEWS IN BRIEF

UK has petroleum to last for twenty years THE UK has ‘significant petroleum reserves’ which could sustain production for at least the next two decades, according to a new report.

The Oil & Gas Authority (OGA) estimates the overall remaining recoverable reserves and resources range between 10 to 20 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BOE).

Workers fear rejection BEING rejected for a job is one of the most stressful aspects of looking for work, a new study has found.

Research among 1,200 adults showed that four out of five admitted they felt stressed when trying to get work.

Jobs site CV-Library said finding a suitable job topped the list of stresses, followed by being rejected, writing a CV and having to take time off to attend interviews.

WPP reduces targets WPP has rolled back annual revenue targets and warned that advertising spending is suffering from activist investors pressuring firms to cut costs.

The advertising giant said like-for-like revenue and net sales for the full year would now come in broadly flat.

It came as like-for-like sales dropped 2 per cent to £3.6 billion for the third quarter, with revenues expanding by 1.1 per cent on a reported basis thanks to a boost from acquisitions and the Brexit-hit pound.

World News

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

SPORT IN BRIEF

Paralympic classification system questioned THE classification system which underpins Paralympic sport cannot be said to be ‘fit for purpose’, Baroness Grey-Thompson has told a panel of MPs. The 11-time Paralympic champion was speaking as a witness at the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) committee hearing into claims British athletes have manipulated the process which ensures fair competition in Paralympic sport.

Former Catalan President agrees to regional election FIGHTING TALK: Carles Puigdemont in Brussels on Tuesday

Water breaks refused WALES coach John Kear has hit out at the World Cup organisers after they refused his request for water breaks during his side’s opening game against Papua New Guinea.

The Welsh were blown away by the Kumuls in the tropical heat and Kear’s disappointment turned to anger when he witnessed both Ireland and Scotland taking water breaks after.

“That’s the one thing we’re really irritated about,” Kear said. “As a coach, I have the players’ welfare in mind. We requested water breaks and we were declined them.”

Mo Farah leaves coach SIR MO FARAH is leaving American coach Alberto Salazar and will be trained for his marathon career by Paula Radcliffe’s husband Gary Lough. Farah is to relocate from Portland in the United States to London but has denied his decision has been influenced by doping allegations against Salazar.

NEWS

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Iran confirms limit on missile weapon range IRAN’S supreme leader has restricted the range of ballistic missiles manufactured in the country to 1,240 miles, the head of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has said.

The decision limits the reach of the weapons to only regional Middle Eastern targets.

The comments on Tuesday [October 31] by General Mohammad Ali Jafari to reporters mark the first acknowledgement that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has imposed limits on the country’s ballistic missile programme.

Killer suspect arrested

THE Spanish government’s top official in Catalonia has said the ousted Catalan leader’s acceptance of an upcoming regional election is ‘very positive’.

Enric Millo said it was a step towards the return to normality in the northeastern region.

Respect “My assessment is very positive,” Enric Millo told reporters on Tuesday [October 31], minutes after Carles Puigdemont dismissed from Brussels fears that separatists could boycott a ballot that had been called by Spain’s central authorities.

“It means the acceptance of the return of the

democratic legality,” said Mr Millo.

He added that the elections will allow Madrid “to return the self-government to Catalans”.

The central authorities’ direct management of Catalonia under special measures adopted last Friday to derail a push for independence has been so far smooth, the official said, ruling out any boycott by civil servants.

“They are showing that they are public servants that respect the law and democracy, as they should,” Mr Millo said.

Officials said that around 150 aides of ousted elected officials in Catalonia have been fired over the past four days.

JAPANESE police have found nine dismembered bodies in an apartment south west of Tokyo.

Police were working on Tuesday [October 31] to identify the victims after the man who lived there, 27-year-old Takahiro Shiraishi, confessed to cutting them up and hiding them in cold-storage cases.

Trump calls aide ‘liar’ PRESIDENT Donald Trump has said a former campaign aide thrust into the centre of special counsel Robert Mueller’s Russia probe “has already proven to be a liar”.

On Twitter, Mr Trump sought to dismiss George Papadopoulos, who has provided key evidence in the first criminal case connecting Mr Trump’s team to alleged intermediaries for Russia’s government.

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Letters

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU If a client says jump, we jump: Please don’t create road obstacles Like many commuters and many people trying to run businesses in Tunbridge Wells, we travel into the town on Frant Road.

The constant roadworks on the road are losing us money. Lots of money.

Due to the three-way traffic lights at Forest Road last week, the traffic was probably backed up to somewhere near Hastings. It is unreasonable and frankly incompetent.

Over the last year there have been fewer weeks of moving traffic than stationary traffic.

The irony is that we moved here a little over a year ago from a vastly more populated and busy place, Kingston-upon-Thames, that manages traffic lot better.

This morning we lost a project worth £15,000 because I could not make a conference call.

We work in a very competitive sector. We’re a creative agency, and when clients say jump you ask how high. An alien world to the people managing the roadworks, it seems.

However, Tunbridge Wells has been encouraging creative agencies like ours to move here to boost local business and employment, and we’re last year’s Times Business Award-winning Tunbridge Wells agency.

Station area no place for replacements Following yet another weekend of traffic chaos in the Tonbridge station area caused entirely by rail replacement buses, I can stay silent no longer.

The situation has been a shambles ever since the car park in Vale Road was double-decked without making any arrangements whatsoever for the displaced replacement buses.

Every time Southeastern or Southern have engineering work, they block all three bus laybys in the station area, causing our local buses to have to stop in the middle of the road and passengers to wander around to try to find where exactly each bus is actually going to stop.

Sooner or later someone is going to get knocked down. And traffic stops behind the buses whilst they are loading, causing more congestion.

The situation is completely out of control. It should never have been allowed in the first place.

One of the most farcical things about the whole situation is that the access gates from Vale Road roundabout are still there but cannot be opened because the car park structure is in the way.

John Brandon Tonbridge

Fewer councillors, smaller office space There was a precursor to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Civic Development Roadshow at the Pembury Society’s autumn meeting.

It was presented by Councillor Tracy Moore,

‘MADNESS’ The Times helped to stop 24-hour roadworks in Frant 12 months ago

the new Local Plan. It might be convenient to blame the Town Hall and government for the impending urbanisation of our village, but it would be a ducking of responsibility for representing the views of Pembury residents.

Terry Cload Pembury

Respect must cut both ways

So, before I start to make a huge amount of noise about what is, after all, completely unreasonable behaviour, I thought it would be reasonable to give Kent County Council a chance to put things right: We need to be able to service our clients and they continually ask us to jump, so if you want us to continue to help this town to flourish, your department now needs to jump as well.

Stephen Page Via email backed up by no less than the council’s Chief Executive, William Benson.

One resident, wide-eyed in acclamation following Cllr Moore’s presentation, proclaimed his sudden conversion to supporting the project.

Reaction from the rest of the audience was rather more sceptical and restrained.

I wasn’t given the chance to ask whether the council Leader [Cllr Jukes] had given up the idea of forming a unitary authority. This could obviate the need for opulent new council offices.

Cllr Jukes has said that there are far too many councillors. Their numbers and the council’s entire administration costs could be considerably reduced if councils not only worked together more closely, but went further and actually combined. Other parts of Kent are actively pursuing that option.

The meeting moved on to an informative presentation about the New Local Plan.

I suggested that Pembury Parish Council had been rather reluctant to work with residents on the implications of it.

We are facing the greatest challenge to our natural environment and way of life in many decades from the government’s imposition of a house-building target of 13,500 homes.

Fireworks, picnics on the green and scarecrow competitions are terrific community events, but Pembury Parish Council should put much more effort into coordinating the village’s response to

I cannot understand Cllr Tracy Moore’s reaction to posters on trees showing that she’s going to cut them down: Is she leading the initiative for the new Civic Centre? Does this entail chopping down trees? The answer is yes in both instances, so why the preciousness?

She paints those who are opposed to the scheme as ‘playing to the masses’. Hasn’t she taken the Civic Centre initiative on tour, playing to school audiences? Isn’t this and her every utterance on the matter ‘playing to the masses’?

She brings her children into the argument – always a questionable move – and states that photographs of her attached to trees is ‘crossing the line’, but she has no qualms about similar pictures when she is campaigning for re-election.

She invites us to challenge councillors on their decision-making and make sure they are making good decisions: We are, but no one’s listening.

Finally, she states that ‘courtesy and respect are deserved on both sides’. True, so why does she not respect the overwhelming view that this town is not willing to take on a £72million debt to fund a new Town Hall?

Methinks the lady doth protest too much.

John Ward Moorhouse Tunbridge Wells

LAMPS has West End polish We have lived in Tonbridge for four years and have enjoyed the friendly ambience. Last month we discovered a nugget of gold.

It was the 90th anniversary celebration of LAMPS performances, and the standard was outstanding: The singing, dancing, acting, lighting, choreography and staging were firstclass and much of the show wouldn’t have been out of place on a West End stage.

The bonus was that we came out feeling uplifted, and these days that’s a bit of a rare commodity. We have no connection with the group but look forward to their next production.

John Harding Tonbridge

Dying to get an appointment Regarding patients who had missed doctor’s appointments, did it not occur to Calverley that they were ill and therefore unable to travel?

Or had passed away waiting for an appointment.

Greig Bannerman Frant

We do our best to publish letters in full. However, the Editor reserves the right to edit any letter. Please ensure that letters do not exceed 250 words

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

OFF to the Vittle and Swig restaurant and bar on Camden Road for a birthday bash that turns out to be anything but run of the mill. The Great and the Good of the borough were gathered to mark the first anniversary of the opening, and oh how they celebrated. Those serving the canapés, who happened to be dwarfs, were run off their feet, while the bouncers were dressed in drag and kept order as the guests were handed masks to wear.

Calverley could not help but notice that one chap at the Vittle and Swig spent the entire evening taking pictures on his mobile and then trying to post them to show what a great time he was having. (No he wasn’t.)

He appeared to get quite agitated when the bar’s Wi-Fi failed to function. One partygoer whispered in Calverley’s ear that it was someone known in the online community as the Tunbridge Wells Turkey. What an interesting name.

EVERYONE knows how long it can take to weave your way through the traffic in town. But it seems this passenger, spotted in a Volvo, had been stuck in the traffic for an exceptionally long period of time; he’s wasted away.

Calverley is, as usual, grateful to one of his field agents who snapped the skeleton en route. Mind you, it was in the lead-up to Halloween.

WITH the Ivy now taking bookings for the opening of its Tunbridge Wells restaurant, Calverley is reminded of the time one of his journalist colleagues tested the dress code of the flagship eatery in London, where nothing was said to faze the staff.

The scribe arrived wearing just a jacket, tie, underpants and shoes. Not an eyelid was raised as he was escorted to his table and handed a menu. When one celebrity diner complained that the cheeky chappie had taken his clothes off, the maître d’ replied: “Madam, he wasn’t wearing them when he arrived.”

Pictures please of anyone who serves up this approach on a plate in TW. Chin chin, etc, etc

Education

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

EDUCATION Times WITH THE

Building experts set pupils a challenge to encourage them into construction

GROUP EFFORT Hugh Christie students enjoyed the workshop STUDENTS from Hugh Christie Technology College in Tonbridge had the chance to see what life in the construction industry is really like.

A team from the property and construction consultancy responsible for the Olympic Stadium, Pinewood film studios and Daytona Speedway

joined them in the classroom.

The consultancy, Gleeds, teamed up with educational charity The Transformation Trust to organise a curriculum-aligned challenge which saw 32 students aged 11 to 14 take part in a specially devised workshop.

The participants were split into groups of five and spent the day planning every aspect of a hypothetical construction project at royal residence Windsor Castle.

Richard Hine, Director of Gleeds in Tunbridge Wells, said: “Our industry is facing a huge challenge in terms of

recruiting new staff, and it is up to us to try to encourage the next generation to take up careers in our industry. Having seen the imagination, creativity and raw talent on display during our workshop, I am confident this year’s Global Challenge can inspire students everywhere.”

A wealth of industries Mayfield pupils welcome offer big career steer festival’s poetic Agenda towards the future…

Over 250 students and their parents attend St Gregory’s School’s inaugural careers fair SOME 60 entrepreneurs and experts spoke to pupils from Year 9 upwards at the first careers fair held by St Gregory’s Catholic School.

Among them were engineers, designers, representatives from the Armed Forces, medical, legal and finance professionals and even a stuntman.

‘The selection of careers available was incredible’ They were on hand to offer advice on everything from apprenticeships to successfully applying for university places, as well as tips on deciding which career path to go down.

Headteacher Sean McQuillan said: “This has been a fantastic event, not just for our students, but for our whole community.

“Talking with people from such a variety of careers helps students

focus on their aspirations and is incredibly motivational for them to do well in their studies.

“Developing the interest, knowledge and skills required by future employers is an essential part of the road to their success.

“Extending links with employers and businesses is a key part of what we do at St Gregory’s, as it helps the school develop the curriculum to ensure that the future workforce has the right skills.”

Chartered Surveyor and St Gregory’s parent Tracy Nicholson commented: “The selection of careers available was incredible. I really enjoyed speaking to so many students about my career, and was particularly pleased to talk to a lot of girls who showed an interest in it.”

St Gregory’s student Harry said: “I learnt more than I thought I would.

I just wish there had been more time to talk to people!”

THE Agenda Poetry Festival was hosted at Mayfield School last month by one its former teachers.

Many talented poets spoke at the event, including Jane Lovell and Hilary Davies, and it was attended by pupils from other local schools.

“This is an amazing opportunity for the girls to independently attend an event such as this, and I am extremely proud of them. As a department, we are really pleased to have been invited to the festival, and hope that we will continue to forge links with Mayfield School.”

The Agenda Poetry Festival is Opportunity promoted and run by the celebrated Among them were Year 9 Beacon poetry journal of the same name, Academy students Daisy Clifford, which is edited by prize-winning Anna Bates and Izzy Codman (below). poet Patricia McCarthy, a former All three were regular attendees at Head of English at Mayfield School. an after-school Poetry Enrichment Agenda is respected around the class run by English teacher Mrs world, having been founded in 1959 Hamilton-Brown, who commented:

by Ezra Pound and William Cookson.

The two-day Festival ran a mix of workshops with influences from Jamaica, Bengal, Iran, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Award-winning poet, novelist, essayist and broadcaster Kei Miller also gave a reading CHAPTER AND VERSE (L-R) Izzy Codman, – of her poem Daisy Clifford and Anna Bates Dwelling Places.

NEWS

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NEWS

Weekly Comment

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Martin Betts Labour Party local campaign co-ordinator

Labour Party member Martin Betts lives in Southborough and has long been active in local politics. He retired after a long career in the Civil Service, where his last job at the Department for Work and Pensions was in communications. He qualified at Leicester University in human resources and training and development. The Times also publishes regular opinions from Conservatives and Lib Dems and members of the Green Party

Universal Credit “unfair and unforgiving” THE Government’s flagship Universal Credit (UC) programme is plunging millions of people into poverty, leaving them unable to pay rent or put a meal on the table, and causing them to face debt and eviction as a result.

In theory UC is a good idea that replaces six different types of social security.

Rather than getting multiple benefit payments that can include Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Employment and Support Allowance, claimants get just one monthly payment.

However, there is one major problem. The budget for UC has been cut time and time again and eligible claimants have to wait six weeks or more for their first payment, supposedly replicating what it is like when they start their first job.

The consequence of this is that more and more people are falling into poverty, unable to buy enough food, and

facing becoming homeless.

Where the UC roll-out has taken place, MPs have reported mothers being unable to feed their children properly, relying on free school meals and then having to resort to foodbanks during school holidays.

Frank Field MP, Labour Chair of the Work and Pensions Select Committee, has said that the main foodbank in his Birkenhead constituency was seeking 15 tonnes of additional supplies before the arrival of UC this month.

Controversial Housing Associations say that 80 per cent of rent arrears are down to UC and the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, predicts that rough sleeping will double in his area when UC is rolled out.

With many MP’s post bags full of similar stories, we would have expected the Government to have listened and paused the roll-out of UC until it was

fixed. They were, after all, warned as far back as 2013 that these problems would occur.

Instead they are carrying on regardless and speeding up the process of roll-out before it is fit for purpose and safe for the expected seven million users of the programme.

The Government is also ignoring a Commons vote on Labour’s motion calling for the controversial welfare plans to be put on hold which was passed by 299 votes to nil.

It isn’t only Labour that is calling for ending the six week first payment of UC and a pause in its roll-out until the problems are sorted out. It is also supported by Citizens Advice, Housing Associations, The Trussell Trust, and some senior Conservatives.

Dr Sarah Wollaston MP, Conservative Chair of the Health Select Committee, said “Why are we undermining a policy with potential to change lives for the better by not addressing a fundamental flaw at its heart?”

HELPING HAND Mothers turning to foodbanks Former Prime Minister Sir John Major said more simply that UC was “operationally messy, socially unfair and unforgiving.”

We must continue to apply pressure on our local MPs to get the government

to learn some of the lessons, reduce the six weeks wait and pause the roll-out of UC, before it brings further misery to Tonbridge benefit claimants in August 2018 and Tunbridge Wells claimants in September 2018.

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

The Times is proud to work with:

WITH THE

Available in Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks

bracketts

est. 1828

Perfect Park life

In a home so large it has its own lift

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PROPERTY

To suit your budget

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Your at-a-glance guide to

BEACON LODGE HAWKHURST OIEO £750,000

UNDER £300,000 CROFT HOUSE TONBRIDGE

£255,000 One of 15 bespoke luxury apartments in the centre of Tonbridge, close to the High Street and mainline station.

Number six is one of nine remaining flats and comprises a living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, a hallway and bathroom. The kitchen is open

plan and formed in an L-shape. It has a modern appearance, being finished in a black and white colour scheme.

As an added benefit, the apartments all have their own parking spaces, and come with new 125-year leases.

CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £450,000 MERLIN CLOSE TONBRIDGE

£400,000 A detached bungalow in quiet cul-de-sac within walking distance of the local shops. There is a spacious sitting/dining room with double aspect windows and a large picture window overlooking the front garden. There are three bedrooms

with views across the rear garden as well as a bathroom. The kitchen is bright with plenty of storage and there is a back door leading to the side pathway and rear garden.

Available for sale with no chain.

CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 www.bkestateagents.com

To suit your budget

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

PROPERTY

25

great properties by price range…

UNDER £500,000 BISHOPS OAK RIDE TONBRIDGE

GUIDE PRICE

£395,000-£410,000 A semi-detached three-bedroom house in an established residential area in the north of the town. Believed to have been built in the 1950s, the property has double glazing, gas fired central heating and cavity wall insulation. It was extended in 2004 to include an additional reception room/extra guest bedroom. The property also has a garden and onsite parking for two cars.

CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £600,000 COLIN BLYTHE ROAD TONBRIDGE

£450,000

With the potential to extend (subject to planning permission), this twobedroom detached bungalow comprises an entrance hall, kitchen, living room, two bedrooms and a bathroom. The excellent loft space is where there is potential to convert, like many neighbouring homes, and outside there is off-road parking and a garage. To the rear is a south-facing secluded garden.

CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £700,000

UNDER £1MILLION BEACON LODGE FOXHOLE LANE, HAWKHURST

OIEO

£750,000

An attractive, Grade II listed period home with Georgian frontage, large sash windows and external shutters. Other features include exposed beams, high ceilings, cornicing and picture rails. The accommodation includes a drawing room with views across the garden, a 27ft open-plan kitchen/diner, a

HAWDEN CLOSE TONBRIDGE cloakroom, a utility room and a vast cellar. There are four double bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Externally, the garden has a large paved terrace, and there is a driveway with off-road parking.

CONTACT Maddisons Residential Tunbridge Wells 01892 514100 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

GUIDE PRICE

£585,000 A four-bedroom house on the Tonbridge/Hildenborough borders with far-reaching views. The stylish entrance hall leads to a spacious sitting/dining room with patio doors. There is also a study, cloakroom, family/TV room and kitchen. There are four bedrooms (one en suite) and a bathroom upstairs.

There is also a large workshop.

CONTACT Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 www.bkestateagents.com

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Glendale House

PROPERTY

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Superbly located Edwardian home with seven bedrooms, six bathrooms and a lift AT A GLANCE GLENDALE HOUSE BOYNE PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS n 3 floors, all serviced by a lift n Entrance lobby n Hallway n Drawing room with feature fireplace n Sitting room n 31ft open-plan kitchen/breakfast room n Dining room n 3 further reception rooms n Utility room n Cloakroom n Boot room n WC n Basement storage area n Master suite with feature fireplace, fitted dressing room and en suite n 4 further bedrooms (all with en suites) n Family bathroom n Off-street parking n Wrought iron railings and low level brick wall n Rear garden laid to lawn n Paved terrace

GUIDE PRICE

ÂŁ2,000,000

Available for sale through Maddisons Residential Tunbridge Wells 01892 514000 www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk

Refurbished to a high standard, offering a wealth of elegant living space

Greenacres

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

PROPERTY

35

AT A GLANCE GREENACRES HIGH BROOM LANE CROWBOROUGH n Reception hall n Drawing room n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room, cloakroom & cellar n Snooker room n Study n Cinema room n 3 ground floor bedrooms (2 en suite) n Master bedroom suite n 2 further bedrooms (one en suite) n Detached double garage n Self-contained apartment with 2 double bedrooms (one en suite) n Swimming pool n Stables & 3 paddocks

The separate apartment above the garage has a spacious living area

n In all about 11.5 acres

GUIDE PRICE

£2,000,000

Available for sale through Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

East Sussex property offers rural views as well as a pool, stables and paddocks

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PROPERTY

Queens Road

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

AT A GLANCE

The sitting room has a marble fireplace with granite hearth and gas fire

QUEENS ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Private entrance n Hall n Cloakroom n Kitchen/dining room n Sitting room n Study n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom n Second double bedroom with en-suite shower room n Rear garden n Decked terrace

GUIDE PRICE

ÂŁ550,000

Available for sale through Savills Tunbridge Wells 01892 507000 www.savills.co.uk

Stylishly renovated apartment in Victorian villa has own entrance and enjoys a garden

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PROPERTY

Architectural Advice

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

DESIGN WITH THE TIMES

John Bullock

Architectural services

Having studied at Edinburgh College of Art and The Royal Academy of The Hague, John Bullock launched John Bullock Design in 2003. With offices in Tunbridge Wells High Street, John has won awards for his work and is committed to delivering the best outcomes for clients www.johnbullockdesign.com

When you can’t see the works for the trees We all love trees, but sometimes they can get in the way of building plans, and careful investigation and consideration is required to ensure no rules are broken in relation to ecology, conservation and the protection of wildlife. So it is always best to get the advice of experts before wielding the axe…

IN THIS month’s column, we have asked two specialist consultants to respond to specific questions from readers about impact of trees and ecology on their development plans.

Firstly, we deal with the issue of protected species and Sean McMinn from Marsh Environmental has been kind enough to offer guidance.

Our second enquiry comes from house owners in central Tunbridge Wells who are concerned that two mature trees might restrict their plans for extension, and local arboricultural consultant Ben Larkham seeks to clarify the position.

These letters come at a time when both arbocology and ecology have become hot topics and need careful consideration when proposing development works which might have an effect on the natural environment.

READER QUESTION 1: We live just outside Tunbridge Wells and have an old barn which we would very much like to convert into an annexe for an elderly relative.

We understand that part of the process to gain planning permission would be to check the impact of the conversion on the potential wildlife that may live in the barn. Could you provide us with further information about this?

Robin & Kate Archer OUR ANSWER A range of species and habitats are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 (as amended ) and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 and Amendments (2012). As a result, the presence of protected species is a material consideration in planning decisions. With the exception of some very small householder applications, many development

proposals will have the potential to impact in some way on local biodiversity.

This may be as a result of direct loss of habitats and or species or a reduction in the value of the habitats and their ability to support the species that depend upon them. Typically, many barn conversions can fall into this category.

Planning authorities have statutory obligations towards biodiversity in the planning process.

Paragraph 109 of the NPPF states that: “The planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by:  Recognising the wider benefits of ecosystem services  Minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures.”

Paragraph 118 of the NPPF states that: “When determining planning applications, local planning authorities should aim to conserve and enhance biodiversity by applying the following principles:  if significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused  And opportunities to incorporate biodiversity in and around developments should be encouraged.” www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/residents/planning/ planning-policy/development-plan-documents/ core-strategy In your case, for example, where you want to convert an old barn into an annexe, the proposal

has the potential to have negative impact upon bats that may use the barn as a roost site or barn owls that may be using the building as a nesting site. All species of bats are protected under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2010 and barn owls under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Therefore It is advisable at the pre-application stage, to undertake what is generally called a Baseline Ecological Site Audit or Phase 1 Ecological Survey.

This type of survey is carried out by a suitably qualified ecological consultant. The consultant ecologist will then produce a report detailing the survey findings, together with an assessment of how the proposed development might be expected to impact on the habitats and species that exist at the site.

Depending on what is found during the survey, there may be the requirement for further survey work. Many protected species are seasonally active therefore there are certain times of year when a survey cannot reliably demonstrate their presence or absence.

It is important to consult with an ecologist and plan the most appropriate time of year for survey work, in line with published guidelines.

If protected species or other important wildlife features are found on site, then any survey should include as a minimum an outline scheme of mitigation integrated as part of the development proposal to protect the species during and after development. www.gov.uk/guidance/ protected-species-howto-review-planningapplications

However, and with careful planning, the development can be designed so that impacts on species that are afforded special protection under European or UK legislation and identified within the site and immediate surrounding area can be avoided, with no loss and or direct injury to populations or individual animals (that can result in prosecution).

The development can also be carefully designed so that it has the least possible negative impact on the overall biodiversity of the site.

In some cases where European Protected Species have been identified as using the site, a European Protected Species Mitigation Licence [EPSL] will have to be applied for: www.gov.uk/government/publications/europeanprotected-species-apply-for-a-mitigation-licence And, for example, in the case of a barn conversion where bats have been discovered roosting inside the barn, a licence will be necessary if your work will have impacts on bats that would otherwise be illegal, such as:  Capturing, killing, disturbing or injuring them (on purpose or by not taking enough care)  Damaging or destroying their breeding or resting places (even accidentally)  Obstructing access to their resting or sheltering places (on purpose or by not taking enough care) www.gov.uk/guidance/bats-protection-surveysand-licences Once the existing ecology of the site and surrounding area has been established, there may be opportunities to enhance biodiversity and to complement existing habitats and species.

Ecological enhancements should, where possible, be included in the proposed development plans to contribute towards the intended objectives of planning legislation NPPF Para 118.

Simple Biodiversity enhancements for a site could include some of the following:  Provision of ready-made bird boxes (sparrow terrace timber boxes or house martin nests for instance, or a mix of open-fronted and holenesting boxes constructed from woodcrete).  Provision of a bat loft incorporated into the design of the building, or bat boxes erected on trees.

Architectural Advice

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

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n Provision of barn owl boxes in trees/buildings if the surrounding landscape is judged suitable. n Provision of reptile/amphibian hibernacula (as stand alone or within new walls by creating recesses into wall structures). n Provision of log piles for invertebrates (including stag beetles), reptiles and amphibians. n Priority should be given to species present on the Kent Biodiversity Action Plan species lists, and where there is the potential for that species to occur on site. n The list includes, barn owl, great crested newt, common toad, viviparous lizard, slow-worm, grass snake, adder, house sparrow, tree sparrow, hedgehog, noctule, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared bat, brown hare, water vole, harvest mouse, dormouse, otter as well as many more species. See www.kentbap.org.uk/habitats-andspecies/priority-species Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is important in providing detail on a range of protection and offences relating to wild birds, other animals, and plants. The level of protection depends on which Schedule of the Act the species is listed on. Licences are available for specific purposes to permit actions that would otherwise constitute an offence in relation to species. The legislation does not currently allow licences to be granted to permit such actions for the purpose of development.

Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations (2010) The Conservation of Habitat and Species Regulations 2010 transpose European Union Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (EC Habitats Directive) into national law.

These regulations provide for the designation and protection of ‘European Sites’, the protection of ‘European Protected Species’ and the adaptation of planning controls for the protection of such sites and species.

Under the regulations, public bodies have a duty in exercising their functions to have regard to the EC Habitats Directive.

NOTE: The 2010 Regulations consolidate the previous regulations formerly set out in the Conservation (Natural Habitats &c) Regulations 1994 (as amended).

Many thanks to Sean for his invaluable advice.

For further ecology advice, please contact Sean McMinn at Marsh Environmental 01303 230890 / 07888 683767. Email: enquiry@marshenvironmental. com www.marshenvironmental. com

READER QUESTION 2: We live in central Tunbridge Wells and love our house and its position. It works for our family with enough bedrooms and a reasonably sized garden. The only change that we would like to make is to extend our living space.

We are planning to extend our kitchen into the garden, under permitted development, to create a large open-plan family kitchen/diner.

However, we have two trees which would require removal. We would welcome your advice on the feasibility of removing these. We have many other trees in our garden and would happily replant two more if this would help our case?

Jo and Emily Baker OUR ANSWER Thank you for your enquiry.

When you are considering works to your property which may require tree removal or building close to retained trees, it is worth remembering that there are specialists available to help deal with these issues.

But why engage the services of an arboricultural consultant? They are just trees, after all!

Trees are recognised as a very important feature within the built environment, offering scale and instant maturity for new build developments and existing properties where extensions and remodelling works are proposed. In addition to the environmental benefits that trees provide, the contribution to visual amenity and a sense of place are all recognised within the planning system.

The contribution trees make is well established in the planning system with the use of Tree Preservation Orders and the designation of Conservation areas which protect trees within their boundaries.

Trees in this situation are a greater material consideration in the planning process. Your consultant can establish the position regarding tree protection from your local authority, and this may have a material impact on how your proposal fits with tree retention if they are protected.

If trees are not protected within your garden, then we would not recommend removal before a planning application is submitted, as this pre-emptive approach is not always in the best interests of the development. We would always suggest a survey be undertaken prior to considering any management or removal works.

Garden areas are decreasing in size within towns and villages as new infill development and extensions are built and the available land for trees and their rooting environment is put under pressure.

The local authority aims to maintain the balance between new development and existing trees to ensure that the local environment is an attractive place to live and work.

When considering new works to an existing property, where trees are in close proximity to the development, the local authority will seek to ensure that trees are retained where possible and that they will not be affected.

Potential harm to the tree could be in relation to the above ground parts of the tree, but principally relates to likely damage to the roots.

Where trees are present in vicinity to a new development, the local authority will request an arboricultural survey to assess the condition and quality of those trees. This appraisal should be undertaken by a qualified Arboricultural Consultant.

As part of this survey, your consultant will identify which trees are appropriate to retain and which could be removed due to poor condition or defects.

The survey of the trees would be presented as a full schedule of species, their dimensions and condition together with recommendations for any management regardless of your development ambitions.

The Arboricultural Survey would be undertaken in accordance with the industry standard recommendations of ‘British Standard 5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction’.

‘The proposal has the potential to have negative impact upon bats or barn owls’ The survey will establish recommended root protection areas for each tree. within which new building works should not occur.

If conflicts to the root protection are present then your consultant would work with your design team to establish whether a design solution could be found. This may be through redesign in discussion with the applicant or through the use of specialised foundation design and engineering solutions.

In this situation, the local authority would request additional reports to be provided by your Arboricultural Consultant to explain the situation and solutions proposed.

Your Arboricultural Consultant would also liaise directly with the planning department and their tree officer to progress these issues. Using a consultant with a good relationship with the local planning officers is useful in progressing the tree elements of the planning application.

The additional reports may identify the need for protective fencing or ground protection measures to be installed, and the local authority may request you retain the services of your Arboricultural Consultant through the works to ensure the trees being retained are appropriately protected. These reports can take the form of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment or Method Statement, and will form part of the planning submission and subsequent planning approval.

If trees are to be removed as part of the application, then we would often encourage the client to provide replacement tree planting elsewhere in the garden to give continuity and longer term tree cover to the garden.

New tree planting would form part of any new landscape planting if this is required by the local authority when issuing planning approval.

Many thanks to Ben for his invaluable advice.

For further arboricultural advice, please contact Ben Larkham at Ben Larkham Associates Ltd, Arboricultural and Horticultural Consultants, on 01892 684086 / 07810 058088 Email: office@benlarkham.co.uk www.benlarkham.co.uk John Bullock Email: john@johnbullockdesign.com

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Moat Cottage

PROPERTY

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AT A GLANCE

MOAT COTTAGE NEWICK LANE, HEATHFIELD ■ Entrance hall ■ Sitting/family room ■ Dining room ■ Study ■ Bespoke kitchen ■ Utility room & cloakroom ■ Master bedroom with superb en-suite shower/wet room ■ 3 further bedrooms ■ Family bathroom ■ Separate WC ■ Barn used for garaging with adaptable games room ■ Landscaped gardens ■ Rear terrace & BBQ area

Converted twin-kiln oast house comes with character features, a delightful garden and a barn

The triple-aspect drawing room has a wood burner, beams and doors to the rear terrace

■ Gated entrance and gravel driveway ■ Extensive parking ■ Summerhouse ■ In all about 0.5 of an acre

GUIDE PRICE

£785,000

Batcheller Monkhouse Tunbridge Wells 01892 512020 www.batchellermonkhouse.com

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FEATURES

Food & Drink

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Experience a taste of the Colombian club Sofia Baguley, pictured below, hosts a popular pop-up Colombian restaurant in her home every month. Just before her next one this weekend, Eileen Leahy asks what inspired her to share her native Latin American cuisine…

So Sofia, what got you started hosting these cool supper clubs?

I started my Colombian dinner parties in the summer of 2013 after being inspired by pop-up restaurants in Havana, Cuba.

We found these places where families opened up their homes and cooked delicious home-cooked meals for tourists, and we loved it as it was authentic and very tasty.

How did you get yours up and running?

When I returned home, I did my research and a food hygiene course and got the business going by doing Colombian takeaways every Friday night. I did this for a year, alongside hosting the odd dinner party, but it was hard work, and as I have a day job I decided to concentrate on just the dinner parties.

I’m happy to say they have been very successful and I’ve been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor two years in a row.

What made you decide to invite people into your home and host?

I love a party and entertaining, but

SALSATIONAL A home from home dinner party

it can be expensive, so as food and dancing are two of my other passions, I thought: “What if I host a monthly party where people can come to eat some tasty food, bring their own drinks, have a shot of

Colombian rum and a dance afterwards? And in the process, wouldn’t it be good if I could make some money and bring some Colombian culture to Tunbridge Wells?”

place called Cartegena de Indias and was surrounded by family who taught me to cook.

On my menus you’ll find a variety of rice dishes – coconut being the main one – as well as plantain, pulses, fish, meats and fresh salads.

While living in London I went to a few Colombian restaurants and I was always disappointed by the quality of the food. So I realised that if I wanted to enjoy fresh, home-cooked Colombian food in this country, I had to make it myself.

What is typically on the menu?

I grew up with my maternal grandparents in a

How do you decide upon the dishes?

Usually I rotate between red meat, chicken and

Food & Drink

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Mixed green salad with avocado

Colombian round red beans cooked in ahogao salsa (a salsa made of tomatoes, onions and coriander and some Colombian spices)

fish for the main dish, and then I make sure I do a different type of rice every month, and serve either beans or lentils with a salad and plantain.

On the occasions where there is one group that has booked the whole party, I give them the option to choose the main course.

The starters normally stay the same – usually cheese empanadas with aji casero and sweetcorn and prawn fritters with sour cream or cheesy fried arepas with guacamole.

welcome drink. I give a short talk about the menu and we get the starters out just after 8pm.

I explain what the food is, and the meal usually finishes by 10pm. Customers are then offered a shot of Colombian rum and we move the tables, turn up the music volume and start dancing!

Customers usually leave around midnight, but the longest they have stayed is until 3am!

My husband wasn’t very impressed as he does all the tidying up the next day.

What have proved to be the most popular dishes, and why?

The meat empanadas and prawn fritters are very popular, as are dishes like shredded beef and baked chicken cooked in a red pepper, onions and smoked paprika sauce.

I guess people like the combination of flavours, and they usually comment on how tender and flavoursome the meat is.

What are the key elements for hosting a successful dinner party?

Fresh home-cooked tasty food, good music, fun-loving guests and a hostess that loves seeing people having a good time enjoying themselves!

Talk us through a typical supper club evening…

Guests start to arrive from 7.30pm and are offered a

Green fried plantain (patacones) with ahogao salsa

Sofia’s Colombian supper clubs can seat up to 22 people and cost £30 per head for a three-course meal, which includes a welcome drink with a sample of Colombian rum or coffee at the end of the night. To book, visit www. sofiascolombiankitchen.co.uk

Viner’s wines If you’re intending to be outdoors enjoying the fireworks this weekend, try these tipples says James Viner…

SUPERMARKET CHOICE 2016 Exquisite Collection South Australian Shiraz (14.5%, £5.79, Aldi) This is a fabulously made and elegant commercial wine with intense black and purple fruits, cracked black pepper and spices – tannins barely raising an undercurrent to agitate the surface. A perfect foil for T-bone steak, kebabs or any spicy/meat feast on Bonfire Night. Top inky vino (with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon), it’s hard to beat this sleek and fulsome Aussie red for the price.

MUST-TRY IBERIAN DISCOVERY 2015 Al-Ria Reserva Vinho Regional Algarve, Casa Santos Lima, Portugal (14%, £13.50, The Wine Society) Spicy and appetising, well-constructed and harmonious, this is a very interesting blend of the floral and very stylish top port grape Touriga Nacional and peppery Syrah, partially aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels. There’s an undeniable plushness on display here with supple tannins, and it is wonderfully rich and oh so enjoyable. Real depth on the bouquet and palate, with dense red fruits and vanilla characters, chocolate and spice, and a distinctive Iberian feel.

Decant and serve with robust red meat dishes or platters of hearty Bonfire Night fare.

Follow James on Twitter@QuixoticWine

Remember, remember to serve some warming food this fifth of November Hosting a bonfire night party? Then you’ll need a warming one pot wonder to feed hungry guests

THIS CLASSIC COQ AU VIN WILL GO DOWN A TREAT… ■ 300g/101/2oz. shallots ■ 3 tablespoons plain/ all-purpose

flour ■ 6 large skinless, boneless chicken breasts ■ 3 tablespoons olive oil 125 g/41/2oz. chopped streaky/ fatty bacon or pancetta cubes ■ 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced ■ 50ml/31/2 tablespoons brandy ■ 3 sprigs of thyme ■ 1 bay leaf ■ 1 bottle dry fruity red wine

750ml/31/4 cups (see recipe introduction) ■ 250g/31/2 cups small button mushrooms ■ 15g/1 tablespoon butter, softened (optional) ■ 3 tablespoons freshly chopped ■ flat leaf parsley ■ sea salt and freshly ground black pepper ■ creamy mashed potatoes or tagliatelle, to serve Serves 6

METHOD Cut the shallots into even-sized pieces, leaving the small ones whole and halving or quartering the others.

Put 2 tablespoons of flour in a shallow dish and season it with salt and pepper. Dip the chicken breasts in the flour and coat both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large lidded frying pan/skillet or deep flameproof casserole, add the chicken breasts and fry for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned – you may have to do this in two batches.

Remove the chicken from the pan, discard the oil and wipe the pan with kitchen paper. Return the pan to the heat and pour in the remaining oil.

Add the chopped bacon or pancetta cubes and the shallots and fry until lightly browned. Stir in the garlic, then return the chicken to the pan.

Put the brandy in a small saucepan and heat it until almost boiling. Set it alight with a long cook’s match or taper and carefully pour it over the chicken. Let the flames die down, then add the thyme and bay leaf and pour in enough wine to just cover the chicken. Bring back to simmering point, then reduce the heat, halfcover the pan and simmer very gently for 45 minutes.

(If you’re making this dish ahead of

time, take the pan off the heat after 30 minutes, let cool and refrigerate overnight.) Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook for another 10–15 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan, set aside and keep it warm.

Using a slotted spoon, scoop the shallots, bacon pieces or pancetta cubes and mushrooms out of the pan and keep them warm. Increase the heat under the pan and let the sauce simmer until it has reduced by half. If the sauce needs thickening, mash the remaining soft butter with 1 tablespoon flour to give a smooth paste, then add it bit by bit to the sauce, whisking well after each addition, until the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Return the shallots, pancetta and mushrooms to the pan. Check the seasoning and add salt and pepper, to taste. Cut each chicken breast into four slices and arrange them on warm serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or tagliatelle.

Recipe courtesy of the Wine Lovers Kitchen by Fiona Becket, published

by Ryland Peters and Small priced £16.99.

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FEATURES

Travel

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Reef encounter

‘MAGICAL’ Attenborough is a big fan of remote Heron Island

David Attenborough’s highly-anticipated Blue Planet II, taking us on a tour of our oceans, hit the TV screens on Sunday. Here, Sarah Marshall visits the world’s largest coral reef system – Australia’s biggest tourist attraction

T

HERE’S something universally irritating about noisy eaters, but below the surface of the ocean dining etiquette doesn’t really apply. Munching merrily on brittle stumps of branch coral, a shoal of rainbow-hued parrot fish is causing quite a commotion.

A black-tip reef shark wriggles to the silence of a jetty, white-spotted eagle rays flap their wings to pick up speed, and giant clams appear to purse their thick blue lips in a concertina of disgust.

It’s restaurant rush hour off the shores of Heron Island, a coral cay sprouting dense pisonia forest and ringed by a brilliant white halo of sand, off the southern end of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

Teeming with wildlife and wonder, our oceans are a noisy place. And right now, they’re crying out for help. Marine conservation is a central theme of BBC One’s new series Blue Planet II, and Sir David Attenborough is urging us to protect an environment we know woefully little about.

Earlier this year, The Great Barrier Reef was the subject of controversy when scientists warned that more than 90 per cent of the planet’s largest living organism might have been destroyed.

Having narrowly escaped being listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in Danger, a recovery plan is now under way.

THAT FARAWAY FEELING… On the Great Barrier Reef

Sir David has been to Heron Island several times and describes it as one of the most magical places on Earth. After his last visit, the 300-person resort was at full capacity. “We call that the Attenborough effect,” says General Manager Sandy McFeeters.

Located 81km from Gladstone, Queensland off the east coast, the island is reached by a twoand-a-half-hour boat journey or, as in my case, by a 20-minute seaplane ride, wading to shore in clear, warm water with luggage hoisted overhead.

An important nesting site for loggerhead and green turtles, this peaceful island has a grim past as a turtle and mutton bird canning factory. But an alarming drop in numbers meant the business was no longer economically worthwhile. A resort opened in 1932, although any ecotourism was crude, and gasp-inducing photos from the 1950s show holidaymakers riding on the back of carapaces.

Now the island, part of the Capricornia Cays National Park, is heavily protected. Of the 1,500 species of fish living on the Great Barrier Reef, 60 per cent can be found in the 21 dive sites at Heron island, says scuba and snorkel guide Rick.

Passing the wreck of HMAS Protector, one of Australia’s first naval vessels, which will be declared a preservation site in 2018, we snorkel to Heron Bommie, a heaving tower of coral not far

from the shore. Two blacktip sharks (Rick’s ‘pussy cats of the reef’) chase a whitetip around, while a green turtle makes himself a comfortable bed on cushioned plates, blinking only a disgruntled eye as we free dive to observe him.

Most corals on the Barrier Reef are hard, meaning the underwater scenery is a swirl of camouflage hues rather than bold neons.

Innovative Even during the August winter, the water is a pleasant 21°C and the visibility is excellent.

Cooler temperatures partially explain why coral has survived much better here than in the northern reaches of the reef. Anything above 30°C causes the organisms to expel their zooxanthellae algae, leaving behind a frail white skeleton, a phenomenon known as coral bleaching.

Investigation into the effects of climate change is being carried out at the island’s Research Centre.

“The scientific community is divided,” explains Education Officer Lauren Bailey. “Some researchers say it’s too late and others are confident the reef will survive – it might just look a little different.”

Innovative projects in development include Professor Peter Harrison’s plan to funnel spawning to affected reefs, and Professor Bernard Degnan’s groundbreaking solution for controlling crown of thorns starfish (a potential threat to reefs) by replicating a natural pheromone to lure them in.

“We have to redress all these negative messages,” stresses Lauren. “We can’t give up hope.”

A similar outlook is shared by Peter Gash, Manager of the eco resort on Lady Elliot Island, at the southern tip of the reef. Mined for guano in the 1860s, the wind-whipped coral cay was left barren and desolate. Many years later, it opened as a resort, and when Peter visited in 1979 a love affair began. Since taking over the lease in 2005, WATERWORLD Snorkelling off the Australian islands

Peter has installed solar panels, cut fuel burn by 90 per cent and replanted much of the original casuarina forest, bringing back a cacophony of screeching bridled terns and white-capped noddies.

“Not everyone is happy about that,” he tells me.

“But there are earplugs in every room.”

Although no spring chicken, Peter is a dynamo.

On a guided tour of the resort’s back room operations, I’m lost in a muddle of mathematics as he details engineering innovations with vigour.

Swept away by his energy and enthusiasm, it’s impossible not to smile. And he’s obviously making a success of it – bookings for Lady Elliot need to be made at least six months in advance.

Simple rooms curve around the fringes of the island, and drift snorkel sites have been clearly marked out. Like Heron, the underwater spectacles are outstanding, and all within easy reach.

One afternoon, I spend several hours wallowing in a shallow lagoon, only accessible at high tide.

“Look out for Buddy, our resident turtle,” shouts resort Manager Andreas Supper from the restaurant decking. “He likes having his back scratched.”

Within 45 minutes, I’ve seen 14 turtles.

Distracted by filling their stomachs, none are perplexed by my presence – although I don’t receive any invitations for tummy tickling.

The best time to explore is at dawn, Peter tells me, so I nervously agree to a 6.30am snorkel.

As we walk across the island in semi-darkness, gloomy pandanus trees appear to be lifting their sinewy roots to join us, and flitting bats are in a rush to reach home.

We dive into another reality. Polyps finishing their night’s feed sway with the tide, sage loggerheads drift over ancient living columns and mantas glide elegantly with wind in their sails.

As much as the sights are enticing, so too are the sounds. An undulating whine wends into my headspace and I realise I’m listening to humpback whale song. Even though the migrating animals are probably a long distance away, their stirring voices are penetrating.

Yet, there’s nothing melancholic or mournful about their cry. Instead, it’s graceful and uplifting, striking a chord of hope.

HOW TO GET THERE

‘Even during the August winter, the water is a pleasant 21°C and the visibility is excellent’

 Travelbag (travelbag.co.uk; 0207 001 5252) offers a nine-day trip to the southern Great Barrier Reef, split between Brisbane, Heron Island and Lady Elliot Island on a mixed board basis, for £2,999pp. Includes flights from London Heathrow. Based on a January 1, 2018 departure. Book by November 30.

For more information on the destination, visit www.australia.com and www.queensland.com

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FEATURES

Motoring

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

The Seat Arona is just one of many compact SUVs about to enter the market. Does it have what it takes to stand out from the pack? Jack Evans heads to Barcelona to find out…

TEST DRIVE:

Seat Arona

WHAT IS IT? In what began as a steady stream, the new Seat Arona joins a veritable tidal wave of new compact crossovers set to flood the market.

Using the platform from the current generation Ibiza, the Arona offers that all-important high seating position but in a more compact package – ideal for those who don’t fancy larger SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan or Seat’s Ateca.

A wide range of engines is available, along with a sizeable choice of trim levels – all giving plenty of customisation options, from SEs through FRs to Xcellence.

We went straight for Xcellence on our test drive around Barcelona in Spain’s mountainous Catalan region.

WHAT’S NEW? The Arona is a mixture of the familiar and not-so-familiar. The exterior looks much like that of the larger Ateca, while the interior will be instantly recognisable to anyone who has driven a current Seat product.

That’s not to say it’s bad – all the main switches operate with a good amount of solidity and, save for a few scratchier plastics, it’s a nice place to be.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? With a variety of engines to choose from, there should be a powertrain for everyone with the Arona.

That range starts with a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol with either 94bhp or 114bhp, sending power to the front wheels via a five-speed, six-speed or dual-clutch automatic – though the

auto box is only available with the more powerful engine.

There’s also a more powerful 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol with 148bhp, as well as a 1.6-litre diesel pushing out either 94 or 114bhp.

The smaller petrols are more than up to the challenge of powering the little Arona along though, of course, if you’re planning on more motorway miles then we’d opt for the diesel.

It’s worth mentioning, however, that the 1.5-litre engine is only available in FR-spec cars.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE? Seat had a lot of success instilling a level of sporty handling into the Ateca, and it would appear that it has cracked it once again with the Arona.

The steering has a surprising amount of weight to it, and when combined with the car’s low weight and eagerness to grip, the Arona is quite a lot of fun to drive – particularly on twisty roads like those on our Spanish test route.

There’s not that much body roll, yet it manages to remain soft and supple over inconsistencies in the road surface.

On the motorway, it feels composed and stable – far more so than you’d expect in a car of this size. Wind and tyre noise are kept impressively low, and it all gives the impression of a far larger car than it truly is.

We tested all three engines in various outputs. The most popular is likely to be the 1.0-litre, as it provides the best combination of power and economy.

Acceleration is hardly what you’d call brisk, with the sprint to 60mph taking

BIGGER ON THE INSIDE? That’s how it seems with all the space on offer

around 11.4 seconds – but there’s more than enough grunt for nipping in and out of traffic.

Seat also claims that the 1.0-litre will return 57.6mpg on a combined cycle and emit just 111g/ km CO2 – good for those looking to keep fuel costs down.

HOW DOES IT LOOK? In our eyes at least, the Arona is a very handsome car.

There’s a considerable amount of design influence from the larger Ateca, but it translates to the smaller car well.

Sporty FR trim cars clearly benefit from that sportier look, while Xcellence models feature a glitzy chrome grille – a good way of differentiating the trim level from the rest of the range.

Inside, it’s quite spec-dependent.

Lower models still get an impressive five-inch colour touchscreen, but the cabin is brought down by a large slab of hard plastic on the dashboard section in front of the passenger.

This is replaced by leather-effect material on higher-spec models, which really does improve the overall feel of the cabin.

There is a huge number of customisation options available, with nine exterior body colours alongside three roof colour choices to pick from.

We’d opt for one of the brighter colours – ‘Eclipse Orange’ is a particular highlight, and really helps the car stand out.

FACTS AT A GLANCE: TEST MODEL Seat Arona Xcellence 1.0-litre ENGINE 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol POWER 94bhp TORQUE 175Nm MAX SPEED 107mph 0-60MPH 11.4 seconds MPG 57.6 EMISSIONS 111 g/km PRICE AS TESTED £21,040

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? Given the compact chassis upon which it is based, it’s quite remarkable how much space is on offer in the Arona.

Those sat in the front are well catered for in terms of head and shoulder room, while those in the rear are equally looked after. Even with our seat set in place for a 5ft 11in driver, there was more than enough room for a similarly sized passenger to sit behind.

There are also 400 litres of boot space to play with, and this can be increased to 823 litres by lowering the rear seats.

The space itself is square and, although there is quite a high load lip, is easy to access.

A variety of different storage options are dotted through the cabin, which will no doubt please family buyers looking to keep their cars clutter-free.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE? Buyers have plenty of options in terms of spec choices – there are six to pick from.

The range starts with the SE, and this brings with it 17-inch alloy wheels, a five-inch colour touchscreen and air conditioning – SE Tech adds to this with a full media package, including satellite navigation and rear parking sensors.

From there, the FR trim contributes a sporty look and feel, with large 17-inch alloy wheels and a sports bodykit giving added presence on the road. FR Sport then brings 18-inch alloy wheels and chassis control.

Lastly, Xcellence and Xcellence Lux get the bumper crop of options, with additions including a chrome front grill, rear view parking and machined alloy wheels.

Prices start at £16,555 for an SE model with a 1.0-litre engine – an impressively low price given the amount of equipment on offer as standard.

VERDICT:

‘With the car’s eagerness to grip, it is quite a lot of fun to drive – particularly on twisty roads’

There’s no doubt the compact SUV market is booming – in just one month there’s a new release in the segment from nearly every car manufacturer.

However, Seat has provided a serious offering with the Arona. It’s well styled, good to drive and competitively priced.

In short, it’s well worth considering and can more than handle any competition from the likes of Volkswagen and Hyundai.

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Advertising

FEATURES

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FEATURES

Christmas Advertising Feature

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Santa Claus is coming to town The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching, and Kent and Sussex are lucky enough to play host to Father Christmas at a variety of local venues. Here we hand-pick some of the spots you can meet the man himself over the festive period Drusillas Park, Alfriston

1. When is Father Christmas visiting you this year?

Father Christmas will be with us every weekend as of Saturday, November 18! Once we reach Thursday, December 14, however, he will be with us all day, every day in the final lead-up to Christmas. And whenever you come, Father Christmas will have a high quality gift guaranteed for each child.

2. Why has he chosen your venue?

Drusillas is always on Father Christmas’s calendar, and this year is no exception as he makes his annual trip to visit us. We have always been a popular choice of Christmas grotto as we are one of the top attractions in East Sussex and are widely regarded as the best small zoo in the country, which means you can visit Father Christmas as well as enjoy the rest of our animal and child-friendly environment – all in the same day. We focus heavily on involvement and interaction, so we’re the perfect getaway for families with children!

3. What has he got in store for his visitors?

Father Christmas will be welcoming children to visit him in his magical Cosy Christmas Cottage to receive an early gift. As well as this, you can meet Santa’s reindeers, visit the Husky Cave and

CHRISTMAS GROTTO LISTINGS: Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells

November 19 – December 24 This Christmas, Santa will be meeting and greeting children all day at Royal Victoria Place.

It’s time to get your family and friends in the festive spirit and enjoy a day bursting with Christmas fun. Don’t miss Santa arriving at midday or turning on the brand new ‘Fire Side’ Grotto lights ready to meet children as of November 20. To book a slot with him, visit the website. Free parking will be provided all day. www.royalvictoriaplace.com

Groombridge Place. Groombridge

December weekends Join the elves this Christmastime at Groombridge Place, where there’s plenty to see and do. There will be special elf storytelling, Santa letterwriting, Christmas theme crafts and a theatrical show. From 10am to 4pm on weekends in December, Santa will also be at Groombridge Place for the month in his grotto. Children’s tickets are £11.71 and are available online. www.groombridgeplace.com marvel at the Winter Wonderland illuminations – all included in the cost of the entry ticket.

Tickets cost £11, and full details are available on our website via our Father Christmas calendar.

4 What important information do adults need to know when bringing their children to visit Santa? Is there a cost? Do they need to book in advance?

The Cosy Christmas Cottage is open from 10am to 4.30pm, with the last admission to the park being at 4pm. It’s worth noting that you will not be able to join the queue after 4pm without a ticket, and the queue line will close at 4.30pm, so please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

5. What else does Drusillas offer to entertain families for the day?

As well as all our Christmas magic, from the Husky Cave to meeting Santa’s reindeers, we have our usual zoo, themed rides and outdoor play areas for all to enjoy. For more information on activities such as our walk-through exhibits, animal feeding sessions, mazes and splash pads, please visit us online. www.drusillas.co.uk

Bluewater, Dartford

November 16 – December 24 Located by the lakes at the West Village, Bluewater’s festive journey begins with a warm welcome from Mr Crumb the Christmas Chef at the enchanting log cabin. Children are welcomed to magically transform into elves and help Mr Crumb make a gingerbread man. When things go wrong, out pops the real Gingerbread Man! The little elves will then continue their adventure in Mrs Claus’s craft room, where they can enjoy creating a tree decoration. Then it’s on to meet Santa, where they’ll receive a lovely soft toy to take home. www.bluewater.co.uk

Christmas Advertising Feature

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December 16 – 17 & 21 – 23 Father Christmas’s drop-in sessions are running in Hever Castle’s very own Toy Workshop. Kids will have the opportunity to visit Santa on a first come, first served basis and will receive an ageappropriate gift to take away. Tickets, which need to be purchased on the day, are £8, and it is recommended that you wrap up warm and allow yourself three hours to enjoy the attractions, shops and eateries beside the grotto. www.hevercastle.co.uk

Penshurst Place, Penshurst

Polhill Garden Centre, Sevenoaks

November 18 – 19, November 25 – 26, December 1 – 24 Our grotto is in the actual centre, and this year there will be reindeer arriving with Santa on the 18th. Prices are available online, with the option of a meet and greet with a gift or a child/infant breakfast with Santa on the launch weekend that includes a story with Santa, the grotto experience, a present, face painting and food. www.polhill.co.uk

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activities on offer here that he can’t wait to come along and have some fun with his visitors!

Hever Castle, Nr Edenbridge

November 25 – December 23 The much-loved family grotto returns with Father Christmas himself, who will be awaiting his visitors in the enchanted forest of Narnia.

Enjoy the festive craft tent before Mrs Beaver whisks you off to the forest she calls home, and you make your way to see Father Christmas, who will be waiting in his sleigh! Tickets are £13 and include two accompanying adults as well as a child. The ticket also includes a candy cane, crafts, access to the adventure playground and trail and a present, as well as meeting Santa! www.penshurstplace.com

FEATURES

Bewl Water, Lamberhurst

1. When is Father Christmas visiting you this year?

Father Christmas and his team of elves will be arriving here at Bewl Water for the whole weekends of December 9 and 16 as well as each day from December 21 through to December 24.

Plenty of time for him to hear everyone’s stories and gift wishes before he sets out on his journey on Christmas Eve! 2. Why has he chosen your venue?

Father Christmas is joining us this year to bring his magic to ours! With his special festive grotto waiting for him, he will be able to enjoy sitting by the fire and meeting his guests whilst in our beautiful lake setting.

There are so many fun

3. What has he got in store for his visitors?

Father Christmas will be taking up residence in his favourite waterside grotto, giving out presents to children before they embark on their adventure to help save Christmas!

Children can jump aboard the Santa Express and help the elves find the missing Christmas items in the festive treasure, before heading to The Waterfront Café to rest, warm up and re-energise with something to eat and a luxury hot chocolate – with a choice of toppings! The Christmas Pic ’n’ Mix sweeties cart is also a special treat for the whole family – you can warm yourself up at the fire pit whilst enjoying your sweets and having a go at marshmallow toasting.

4. What important information do adults need to know when bringing their children to visit Santa? Is there a cost? Do they need to book in advance?

The cost for each child to enjoy their experience with Father Christmas is £16, and £8 per accompanying adult.

This includes your visit with Father Christmas, a gift and the treasure hunt around the grounds at Bewl Water on the festive Santa Express train! For an additional fee, there are sweetie carts and hot chocolates available for all ages to enjoy.

5. What else does Bewl Water offer to entertain families for the day?

Aside from the Christmas celebrations, Bewl Water is the perfect place for winter walks, bike rides and lots of exciting fun, including minigolf and laser challenge. There is something for the whole family, with the Waterfront Café serving lots of snacks, light bites, hot drinks and soft drinks. Make a day of it and head to The Boat House Bistro for a delicious festive meal perched over the water’s edge. www.bewlwater.co.uk

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FEATURES

Christmas Advertising Feature

Millbrook Garden Centres Crowborough, Staplehurst and Gravesend

November 25 – December 24 No Christmas is complete without a visit to see Santa in his magical Millbrook Grotto.

Last year, the grotto was named one of the best places to visit Father Christmas in the UK by the online newspaper The Huffington Post.

When you arrive at one of our centres, you can expect to be taken on a journey through a magical Winter Wonderland, with plenty of fun and games along the way!

Once you find Santa’s house, he will be there to greet you and ensure that all good girls and boys are given a gift to take home.

Tickets cost £11 per child and £4 per adult, and the experience lasts 20-30 minutes. Booking is available online, and can be booked up to 24 hours before your visit. www.millbrookgc.co.uk

Sussex Country Gardener Garden Centre Mark Cross, Nr Crowborough

November 25 Welcome Father Christmas and his real reindeer at 10.30am on Saturday November 25, with the magical grotto opening at 11am.

There will be treats for all – from hot chocolate and bacon baps to face painting!

Come along and enjoy the perfect festive morning with Santa Claus himself, as well as taking the chance to browse the farm shop for fantastic local produce – from Hinxden Dairy milk to Speldhurst sausages, local wine and the Cross In Hand Bakery Bread and Buns.

And, of course, you can view all our plants and other products, too.

Find out more information on our website. www.sussexcountrygardener.co.uk

The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood

1. When is Father Christmas visiting you this year?

Father Christmas is back at The Hop Farm this December, so make sure you treat the kids to a chance to meet the big FC up close and personal in his magical grotto! Lots of festive fun is to be had again this year, so pop along and enjoy your chance to meet him before he sets off on his busy night delivering presents to children on Christmas Eve! 2. Why has he chosen your venue?

With the largest collection of Victorian Oast Houses, Father Christmas always spots us here, and we always make him feel at home with our magical atmosphere! We have our special Elfy

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Snacks refreshment & snack room, as well as Elfy Treats sweets and a chocolate cart! We also have Selfie Eflie’s – a photo emporium for everyone to get a souvenir to take home!

3. What has he got in store for his visitors?

Not only do children get to meet Father Christmas individually, but the elves also have the Big Red Grotto for their storytelling, balloon modelling, colouring in and Christmas cartoons. As well as these extra indoor grotto experiences with Santa’s jolly helpers, every child receives a Christmas gift and one free printed photograph per group. There’s also a chance to write a letter to the North Pole – and plenty of Christmas tunes, cartoons, photo opportunities and much more!

4. What important information do adults need to know when bringing their children to visit Santa? Is there a cost? Do they need to book in advance?

His grotto at The Hop Farm is renowned, so places book up quickly. There are still some time slots left, but you’ll have to book in advance online. A child’s ticket is £17 for entry into the family park and soft play area, and to meet Father Christmas. The price also includes two free adults per booking, and an infant under one year old.

5. What else does The Hop Farm offer to entertain families for the day?

We have a fabulous indoor soft play centre, adventure park and animal farm. Plus in the evening we’re showing Christmas movies in our outdoor drive-in cinema (the largest drive-in cinema in the UK!) www.thehopfarm.co.uk

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Life & Style

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CRAFTY CHRISTMAS Rediscover the art of enjoyable Christmas shopping at the Crafts for Christmas event 3 to 5 November in the Maidstone Hall at the Kent County Showground.

The Crafts for Christmas event sources talented makers and designers from all over the UK and brings together these small individual forms with unusual products to present an exciting, interesting and successful event to inspire and delight our visitors.

FUNUSUAL GIFTS IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The festive season is rapidly approaching, and the time to find that perfect present is running out. Take a breath before you go completely crackers, because Drusillas Park in East Sussex has the solution to all of your shopping woes!

Be the first to see the new book by Terry Ward, Terry will be signing copies at the show, dubbed by well-known author James Essinger MA Lit, as ‘A worthy sequel to Oliver Twist’ this exciting new novel is a perfect present for all keen readers 14 years and upwards !

Take away the small screens and give a book this Christmas !

Local producers include Farnell Farm with true Kentish cobnuts and bluebell seeds, Liz Evans with hand built, decorated ceramics , Seesaw Children’s clothes, truly reversible, stylish and practical childrenswear, The Ginger Gosling with detailed pencil commissioned portraits and cute illustrated cards and pictures and Four Hands etched glass and mirrors for a very personal gift.

Firm favourites with our visitors return such as the Sock Company Country, Ashtique with gorgeous gemstone jewellery, Trinity Urban with their colourful, unique skirts, Bio Farm Trading’s fabulous ceramics and olive wood kitchenware, Perlina di Murano and their Murano glass and Swarovski jewellery, Bomboniere by Manancourt’s beautiful table decorations and Kentish Tipple’s luxury fruit-infused alcoholic spirits..

New this year we present workshops and demonstrations of cake decorating by Iced Yorkshire, make your cakes have the wow factor this year, Iced Yorkshire bring their talent, expertise and materials to give you the tips of the trade and hands-on experience to perfect techniques and enjoy this creative skill.

The Pressed Flower guild hold workshops for you to make cards and This Art of Mine have festive workshops in felting and knitting.

Crafts for Christmas is brimming with festive delights and unusual ideas to solve even the most difficult relative on the Christmas list. Treat yourself, family and friends to an abundance of exciting gifts including stunning fashions and accessories, leather bags and belts, dazzling jewellery from sparkly fashion to graceful diamonds, lustrous scarves and luxurious skincare, over 85 stands fill this new state of the art hall.

Fill your festive cupboard with scrumptious cakes, wines, fruit liqueurs from Nip from the Hip, cheeses from Lymm Bank Farm, olives, meats from Grasmere Farm and preserves from the Victorian Kitchen.

Pleasurable Christmas shopping all under one roof, easy, free parking, free cloakroom for coats and heavy shopping, coffee shops and wide aisles with easy access for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

www.ruralcraftsassociation.co.uk

HELP TO BUY EVENT AT BOURCHIER COURT, SEVENOAKS A Help to Buy event is taking place at Bourchier Court, Sevenoaks, this weekend (November 4 and 5).

The high specification two bedroom, two bathroom apartments are just a three minute walk from Sevenoaks train station, with services to London Bridge from 24 minutes.

The apartments, priced from £399,99, and with a stamp duty incentive being offered, are proving particularly popular with first time buyers.

Research by Savills has found that nationally, first time buyers have increased their share of the new build sales market from 11% to 14% between 2015 and 2017.

According to the ‘New Homes: new perspectives’ research by Savills, first time buyers who bought through Savills are buying twice as many flats as houses, at an average size of just over 650 sq ft, with many buyers likely to take advantage of Help to Buy to secure a larger property.

The scheme is designed to help buyers with their first step on to the ladder or indeed a jump up the ladder.

Abbe Hall, from the residential development sales team at Savills Sevenoaks said: “With close ties to the London employment market, the demand for new apartments in Sevenoaks remains strong for young professionals, often first time buyers. The town is long established as a prime commuter location with fast links to the capital and good local facilities.”

The Help to Buy event is taking place at Bourchier Court this weekend, from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday. An independent financial advisor will be on hand to offer mortgage advise for those looking to use the Help to Buy Scheme.

For more information, contact Savills Sevenoaks on 01732 789740.

Ideal for any gift occasion, Drusillas’ Keeper for the Day scheme is a unique treat for anyone who is mad about animals. Working side by side with one of the zoo team for a whole day, you can get nose to nose with nature as you feed, clean and care for a variety of furry and feathered friends.

For a shorter and sweeter look into zoo life, Drusilla’s’ Close Encounter experiences provide an amazing opportunity to meet some of the zoo’s most popular residents. You can have a picnic with a panda, take lunch with the lemurs, meet the meerkats, sip tea with the racoons, or even feed the penguins. For those who are feeling brave there is also the chance to snuggle up to a snake and tickle a tarantula!

Alternatively, the annual adoption scheme allows children to learn about the importance of animal welfare, without all the costs and responsibilities associated with owning a pet. Nearly all of the animals at the zoo are available for adoption and the income generated helps support the zoo’s ongoing animal care and conservation programmes. Adopters receive a photo, a certificate signed by a Zoo Director, a plaque on or near the animal’s enclosure and a complimentary ticket to visit the new member of the family.

Still not sure what to get? For all year around enjoyment, Drusillas Club Membership may be just the ticket. This offers access to the Zoo, Playland and rides for 362 days of the year. Gift Vouchers can also be purchased and redeemed against any one of the Drusillas Park experiences.

Located just off the A27 in Alfriston, Drusillas Park is open daily from 10am. For more information, please telephone 01323 874100 or visit www.drusillas.co.uk

Puzzles

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Numbers are substituted for letters in the crossword grid. Above the grid is the key with two letters solved. Try to complete the first few words to give you more letters, or look for a frequent number that might reveal a common letter. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

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In this Sudoku, the normal 3x3 boxes are now strangely odd shapes – but all the rules and logic of normal Sudoku apply.

Fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and box contains every number uniquely.

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

E N G L A N D I A M G I MM I C K H M N E M T E A R OOM O P O J E S S O R E I F D O Z E N O P E E C OW R U B E L E E E R D E L V E S H

CLASSIFIEDS

P R O X Y I N E Q T E A U A R A G R E E N I N T T O D O I N I ON N D O F T I S T E O E R I M P S

Sudoku:

8 7 3 5 9 6 1 4 2

1 9 4 3 8 2 6 7 5

2 5 6 7 1 4 8 9 3

6 3 5 2 4 1 7 8 9

7 4 1 8 5 9 3 2 6

9 2 8 6 3 7 5 1 4

3 1 2 9 6 8 4 5 7

2 5 7 9 1 3 6 8 4

6 3 9 7 5 1 8 4 2

4 6 7 1 2 5 9 3 8

5 8 9 4 7 3 2 6 1

Jigsaw Sudoku:

3 6 1 2 7 8 4 5 9

7 9 5 4 8 6 2 1 3

4 8 2 1 6 9 7 3 5

8 1 3 5 2 4 9 7 6

9 4 8 6 3 7 5 2 1

5 7 4 3 9 2 1 6 8

1 2 6 8 4 5 3 9 7

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★II

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

DIFFICULTY RATING: ★★★★

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SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

CODEWORD

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Recruitment

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NEWS

WITH THE

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOB TODAY – A MUST READ FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR WORK LOCALLY

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Fill your vacancy now in print or online For more information c ontact Jordanne Reville on 01892 576 049 jreville@markerstudy.com

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Arts & Culture

Preaching to the masses The Assembly Hall plays host to the new musical Son of A Preacher Man this week, which is inspired by the music of soul singing legend Dusty Springfield and directed by Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood. The Times finds out all about it

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ELEBRATED as the brusque dispenser of flattening put-downs on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, Craig Revel Horwood [above] seems to revel in his karate-chop critiques of hapless celebrities performing tangled tangos and cringeworthy cha-cha-chas.

“I just react to what I’m seeing,” he explains innocently. “If I’m watching bad dancing, I’ll tell them the truth.

They need to know. If you’re not getting corrections, I think that would be wrong. I don’t think it’s fair to say you love something if you don’t.”

‘I did it so I could have arguments with myself’ Craig started out as a choreographer and worked on shows such as Miss Saigon, but not every single one was quite such a mega-hit, and when they didn’t work it was his quarrelsome streak which triggered a decision to double up and become a director, too.

DUSTING OFF DUSTY’S HITS For an exciting new musical

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

“I didn’t want to have a battle with the director and see the line where the director finishes his work and the choreography began.

“For me, it’s a lot easier to have one concept of a piece applied. I did it so I could have arguments with myself rather than with someone else.”

The latest show on which he’s arguing with himself is Son of a Preacher Man, a new musical by Warner Brown. It features 20 songs woven into the story of three people with romantic problems who seek solace in a Soho record store that was once famous in the swinging 60s. It’s where kids would dance the night away and dared to dream of love while the owner, dubbed ‘The Preacher Man’, would dispense advice to cure the loneliest of hearts.

But that was a long time ago, and all that remains are the memories, the stories and the myths. Until now, that is, when three random strangers, played by Diana Stephenson, Diana Vickers and Ian Reddington, are inexplicably drawn to the site of the original venue. They may be generations apart, but they are all in need of help with their hopeless love lives.

And The Preacher Man may be long gone, but his son, with help from the wonderful

Cappuccino Sisters, might just find it in himself to channel the spirit of his father and once more give lovesick strangers a chance for love.

The pulsating feelgood soundtrack to Son of a Preacher Man contains a variety of Dusty Springfield’s greatest hits, including ‘The Look Of Love’, ‘I Only Want To Be With You’ and, of course, the titular song ‘Son Of A Preacher Man’.

The show is Craig’s first go at a jukebox musical, so how is he finding the task of melding dialogue and tunes?

“It’s a joy to work on,” he says. “The Dusty Springfield music lends itself to good storytelling, and that’s really important. I am delighted to bring to life for the very first time this wonderful story created by Warner Brown, with soulful songs from the legendary Dusty Springfield’s iconic music catalogue.

“I hope that audiences in Tunbridge Wells will come to love this warm-hearted and uplifting new musical as much as I do.”

The cast of the show, which includes a four-piece band and a three-strong girl group pumping out the hits of Dusty Springfield, as well as the lead characters Kat (Vickers), Alison (Stephenson) and Simon

Arts & Culture

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

THE LOOK OF LOVE? Mike and Kat flanked

by The Cappucino Sisters

There’s something so very funny about Gary Comedian Gary Delaney talks to Eileen Leahy about his latest show, There’s Something About Gary, coming to Trinity Theatre next week

‘The Dusty Springfield music lends itself to good storytelling’ (Reddington), are all discovering that the Craig Revel Horwood they see on television can be just as no-nonsense in the rehearsal room, too.

“I have to give them notes and tell them how I feel. I’m quite direct,” he admits.

The Strictly star then hints that he might just have a soft side hidden away: “When you go to work you’re a different person, and when you knock off you become yourself again.”

Son of a Preacher Man is on until Saturday November 4. Performances start at 7.30pm, with a matinee today [Wednesday] and Saturday at 2.30pm. To book tickets, which start at £15, call the Box Office on 01892 530613, or visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

So Gary, please can you tell us a little bit about the new show you’re touring?

Do you like stories? Do you like politics? Do you like to learn something when you watch comedy?

Then, frankly, this show isn’t for you! It’s just a big pile of stupid jokes instead.

When people come up to me after a show and say their face hurt from laughing, then I always think: “Good, that’s what’s supposed to happen.”

If they’ve learned something, then I’ve done my job badly.

Do you find it easy to write?

Yes and no. Writing mediocre jokes is easy. I can sit down and bang out page after page of them.

Writing the real zingers, though, the ones you really want for your own, that’s a lot harder. They come when they come. It’s like panning for gold, really – for every nugget you find, there’s a big pile of rubbish, too.

Do you have a particular ritual that you adhere to when writing?

The two main tips I give to new writers are: 1) Get a good night’s sleep; and 2) You’ll write better jokes in the morning than the afternoons.

So those are part of it, and the rest is just having the discipline to make a note in my phone of stupid ideas when they pop up, and then to sit down every now and then to wrangle those ideas into actual jokes.

Given the show’s title and the hairstyle you’re sporting in the publicity shot, we think we know what the inspiration might be behind it, but can you confirm to us why it’s called that?

Your suspicions are correct. It is indeed a take on the film There’s Something About Mary. I thought change just one letter and I’ve got a funny image I can use to advertise the show, plus it was fun to do (it was just hair gel, though).

This tour is playing some bigger venues than the last one, and I’m in brochures alongside people more famous than me, so I PEAK PARODY thought if my title and image Gary copies a were funny that would help notorious film quiff me stand out a bit.

You do quite a bit of TV work – what do you enjoy most about it, and do you have a particular show you enjoy doing?

Mock the Week is always fun, though exhausting. We do the best part of three hours when filming.

My favourite, though, was doing Live at the

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Apollo. To finally play that stage just felt like a coming of age. It was recorded about a month ago and should be on TV this month.

You’re famous for being the only comedian to have two jokes in Dave TV’s Funniest Edinburgh Festival jokes top ten list.

Were they easy to write?

Good question. The very best jokes are always easy to write. They pop into your head fully formed, or as near as. The problem is there’s not enough of them, so you have to get down to the hard graft of finding more.

Which comedians do you admire, and why?

The original old school one-liner guys like Max Miller, Henny Youngman and Ken Dodd. Those guys blazed the trail. Emo Philips was the first ‘modern’ gag man, and still the world’s best living joke writer in my opinion.

Have you performed at Trinity Theatre before?

Yes, this is my fourth time. I came here twice on my first tour, and this is the second time on this particular one. It’s a venue I always look forward to playing as the audience are smart enough to get a subtle joke without being too stuck up to laugh at a rude or silly joke.

Gary’s two best one-liners (voted by TV’s Dave channel viewers)

 As a child I was made to walk the plank.

We couldn’t afford a dog.  Dave drowned. So at the funeral we got

him a wreath in the shape of a lifebelt.

Well, it’s what he would have wanted…

Tickets to see Gary Delaney at Trinity on Saturday November 11 cost £18, and the show starts at 8pm. See www.trinitytheatre.net

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What’s On

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

SEVEN DAYS OF SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AT A GLANCE

WHATS ON WITH THE

Eileen Leahy Local events

>> WEDNESDAY This morning The Spa Hotel will be hosting another specialist C&T auction from 10am. This time collectors will bid on arms and armour items. For more information, pop along to the hotel or visit C&T’s website at www.candtauctions.co.uk Over at The Hop Farm’s drive-in Moonlight Cinema in Paddock Wood, you can still catch a screening of the hugely popular LEGO Ninjago Movie. On today and tomorrow at 7pm, tickets cost £25 per vehicle and can be ordered via www.moonlightcinema.com >> THURSDAY Cricketing commentator and all-round British legend Henry Blofeld is at Waterstones, Tunbridge Wells, today from 12.30pm until 1.30pm, talking about and signing copies of his new book Over and Out. Why not pop along to say hello?

Celebrity chefs James Tanner and Dean Edwards will be hosting a Wild West evening at James’s country pub The Kentish Hare on Bidborough Ridge. Based on the ITV series of the same name, where the two chefs toured around the West country sourcing delicious indigenous ingredients, diners can enjoy a three-course menu LEGO brimming with regional delights.

Ninjago Tickets are priced at £59.95 and Movie

REBORN! Comedian Russell Brand at The Assembly Hall can be purchased by calling the pub on 01892 525709, or visit www.thekentishhare.com >> FRIDAY Every Friday, The Angel Flea Market is on from 8am until 1pm at The Angel Centre in Tonbridge. Visitors can expect to see offerings from around 25 stallholders selling a huge variety of bargains. Entrance is free. >> SATURDAY The ever popular Penshurst Vintage Christmas Fair is on today at the village hall between 10am and 4pm, hosted by Cherish The Vintage. Visitors will be treated to 25

If you would like to see your events featured in our weekly What’s On pages, please email eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

stalls selling antique china, jewellery and trinkets for the home. There will also be musical entertainment provided by the talented Miss Vintage and scrumptious cakes and savouries to savour from Dolly’s Diner. Entrance is £2.50 per adult, with all profits donated to Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance. For more details, see www.cherishthevintage.co.uk Matthew Frank, who won the Waverton Good Read Award for British Debut Novel 2014-15 for If I Should Die, will be talking about his latest work, Between The Crosses, at Southborough Library today from 4pm. Tickets priced £1 are available from the library. To book a ticket, call 03000 41 31 31 or email: southboroughlibrary@kent.gov.uk At St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Tonbridge, there will be a concert in aid of Hospice in the Weald from 7.30pm given by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Orpheus Male Voice Choir. Guests include the Cantores Choir, singers from Tonbridge Grammar School and the soprano Arianna Rebecca Firth.

Tickets £10 on the door or contact 01732 368824.

This evening there will be plenty of bonfires ablaze and fireworks being let off at numerous events around the area, including Rusthall, Edenbridge and Tonbridge. One of the biggest Bonfire Nights, however, is the Round Table’s gathering in Dunorlan Park. Gates open at 5.30pm with the display starting at 7pm. Tickets cost £6 per adult and £4 per child when booked in advance at www.rtwrt.org Tennis legends John McEnroe and Björn Borg are

the focus of the biopic Borg Vs McEnroe, which is on at Trinity Theatre at 5.30pm. It charts their numerous battles – both on court and off.

Tickets start at £9.

The triller Mother!, starring Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem, is screened at 8pm. For more information on both, see www.trinitytheatre.net >> SUNDAY Crafty’s Creepy Castle pitches up at Trinity Theatre at 2.30pm today as part of its national tour. Go along to find out why Crafty the Crow has flown off

PICK OF THE WEEK The Broadwater Singers St Luke’s Church, Saturday November 4, 7.30pm The Broadwater Singers are marking the 500th anniversary of the Reformation by hosting a special concert at St Luke’s Church in Tunbridge Wells. The programme will include choral items, instrumental solos, prose and poetry readings and appropriate hymns for everyone to join in. The Deputy Mayor and Deputy Mayoress will also be present.

Entrance is free and there will be a retiring collection after the concert.

What’s On

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

FEATURES

TheSpitfires

BONFIRE NIGHT Will go off with a bang on Saturday

Paul Dunton Live music

The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… www.paulduntonandguests.com

A ROUND-UP OF THIS MUSICAL HIGHLIGHTS THE WEEK’S MASONIC HALL It’s a bumper packed week across the local music scene with a fantastic selection of live gigs and St John’s Road. Entrance £13. Tickets on door only concerts to be enjoyed!

Members get a discount of £1.50 on presentation of to live in a haunted castle, and why things are going bump in the night! With lots of songs and audience interaction. this promises to be a great afternoon of entertainment. Tickets cost £9. >> MONDAY The new Hayward Touring exhibition of screen prints by Eduardo Paolozzi is now at Tunbridge Wells Museum. Sir Eduardo Paolozzi (1924–2005) was one of the pioneers of the pop art movement in the UK. Next time you’re in town, pop along and see his groundbreaking work. >>TUESDAY Controversial comedian Russell Brand visits The Assembly Hall this evening with his latest show, Rebirth. Tickets cost £27 plus booking fee from the Gateway box office in Tunbridge Wells or the Assembly Hall website www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Victoria & Abdul is being screened at Trinity Theatre today at 11am, 2pm and 8pm, and also on Sunday [November 12] at 6pm. Dame Judi Dench returns to her role of playing Queen Victoria in this acclaimed film, which examines the monarch’s relationship with her Indian servant, Abdul Karim.

Tickets cost from £9. www.trinitytheatre.net

69

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE

their card. Student entry is £2. More information at www.twjazzclub.co.uk

The Pantiles, doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites www.pdag.co.uk & www.thegreylady.co.uk

FRIDAY The Jonathan Vinten Quartet with guest star Julian Stringle on reeds

WEDNESDAY Mike Wilton, Mark Morriss & The Gallerys FRIDAY The Jazz Club SATURDAY Gold Beat TUESDAY Lindsay Field & Mick Rose, Jennifer Lee Ridley, Steve Hewitt

THE BEDFORD

2 High Street, open all day, free entry, more information at www.thebedfordtw.co.uk

SATURDAY Alex Gould SUNDAY Open Mic Night THE ROYAL OAK

Prospect Road, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late

SATURDAY The Heartbeats

WEDNESDAY Live in The Vault: Red Diesel, Cracks in the Land, Red, Green & Blue

TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN

The Flying Dutchman, Hildenborough, 8pm-11pm.

More information at www.tonbridgefolkclub.org

The Common, event information at www.twforum.co.uk

Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late

FRIDAY Boogie Nights SATURDAY The Spitfires & The Novatones TRINITY THEATRE

Church Road

FRIDAY The Yoruba Women Choir SATURDAY The Billy Joel Songbook Performed By Elio Pace And His Band THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE

Crescent Road, tickets and event information at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

SUNDAY The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra [RTWSO]: Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto No 1 (3pm start)

Cracks in the Land

MONDAY Sally Ironmonger with Brian Carter (Musicians, singers and audience welcome)

NEWS

Sporting Times

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

Goals galore in FA Trophy as slip denies Angels win Tonbridge Angels 3 Heybridge Swifts 3

By James Rowe FOOTBALL: THE FA Trophy served up a six-goal thriller at Longmead with the result in doubt right up until the final whistle. Five of the goals had gone in before 20 minutes had elapsed.

Juan Luque opened the scoring for the visitors on nine minutes with a header from a corner.

Two minutes later Dan Thompson equalised, turning in the area and placing the ball wide of Danny Sambridge’s outstretched right arm.

But after a quarter of an hour Heybridge restored their lead with Samuel Bantick scoring from close range following Luque’s break down the left.

Critics Three minutes later Joe Turner levelled again for the Angels with a shot from the edge of the box that gave Stambridge little chance.

The hosts took the lead for the first time in the 20th minute when Turner hit the woodwork and although the Heybridge defence almost managed

the clearance, Xavier Vidal pounced on the loose ball to kick it into an empty net.

The second half didn’t quite live up to the quality of the first but Chris Kinnear and Vidal had decent shots on target for the Angels.

The visitors found the equaliser in the 81st minute with Luke Callender forcing his way through the Tonbridge defence, helped by a Callum Adonis-Taylor slip.

Andre McCollin might have won it for the hosts in the 90th minute but saw his header go just wide of the left-hand post.

Angels coach Justin Luchford said: “We’ve gone and scored three goals in nine minutes to defy the critics who say we are not getting enough goals, but then as the home side we’ve conceded three.

“In the second half I didn’t think we kept the ball as well as we should have done and tended to bypass the midfield areas, where with a bit of care we could have hurt them more.”

The Angels now return to Bostik League Premier action on Saturday [November 4] at Enfield.

PHOTO: David Couldridge

70

ROUND THE KEEPER Megan Akehurst scores

Ladies overcome stubborn Vinters to maintain pressure

New signing Smith inspires Rusthall

Tonbridge Angels Ladies 2 Vinters 0

Lordswood 2 Rusthall 3

By Dan Couldridge

FRESH LEGS Steve Smith hit a hat-trick

By Richard Smith FOOTBALL: THE Rustics secured a welcome victory in Medway thanks to a hat-trick from new signing Steve Smith after a run of five defeats in a row.

The victory came against a Lordswood side who have been the shock form team of the Southern Counties East League Premier Division this season after a battle against relegation last term.

It was also secured without the suspended Paul Butler and the injured Steph Harper.

Keeper Steve Lawrence had returned from Sheppey United in midweek but could do nothing about the home side’s opening goal on 35 minutes.

A deep corner from the right found the head of central defender Gary Cook and Liam Newton nipped in to head home from close range.

But Rusthall showed great character to bounce back immediately on the counter-attack, a fine

through ball finding the pacey Smith who calmly rounded Daniel Fox to make it 1-1.

Just three minutes later it was 2-1 to Rusthall when they robbed the ball in midfield and Smith showed his quality with a neat finish.

Lordswood levelled on 63 minutes when they were awarded a penalty for handball. Jack Mahon saw his well-struck penalty saved by Lawrence diving to his right but Newton reacted quicker than the defenders to force the ball home.

But on 74 minutes Smith completed his hat-trick with another calm finish to take the lead again.

Lordswood pushed hard for an equaliser and picked up three yellow cards in the last 10 minutes.

This was a crucial win for Rusthall, who had slipped to 17th in the table after a dismal run They now entertain Crowborough Athletic on Saturday [November 4] before heading to the Culverden on November 11 to play Tunbridge Wells in the second round of the League Cup.

FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS Ladies kept up the pressure on league leaders Thamesview with a hard-earned 2-0 win at home to Vinters.

The hosts were in control from the start but Vinters have always been a difficult team to score against and many chances went begging.

Finally the Vinters defence was unlocked in the 33rd minute when Megan Akehurst rounded the goalkeeper to score.

Five minutes later the lead was doubled when Lauryn Underhill struck the bar and the rebound fell to Becky Jarvis, who scored on her first competitive start for the team.

Another sound defensive performance produced a fifth clean sheet in seven league games.

The Angels now have four away games in a row starting with Petts Wood on Sunday [November 5]

O’Regan scoops gold with Britain KARATE: VINEHALL School’s Ollie O’Regan was part of the Great Britain team that won gold at the WIKF World Championships in Curacao.

Ollie was pipped to fourth place in the individual kumite when he was drawn against the American champion in the first round.

Then he found himself up against one of his team mates in the repechage and came fourth again.

Competing in the team event on the Caribbean island, Britain defeated the USA and Denmark to win the championships.

Ollie, who is head boy at the school in Robertsbridge, has been training since he was five years old and was selected for the WIKF England squad aged nine.

He went to win bronze at the European Championships in Cyprus followed by a silver in Rotterdam last year.

Hannah Sassone of the Friends of Vinehall School said: “Well done Ollie, we are so very proud of your fantastic spirit and passion.”

READY TO RUMBLE Ollie O’Regan in action

Sporting Times

Wednesday November 1 | 2017

NEWS

71

Worthing 23 Tonbridge Juddians 19

By Adam Hookway RUGBY: BOTH clubs were in search of a win after a string of defeats in National Two South, and Tonbridge Juddians were left with another feeling of what-if.

TJs started the brighter of the two sides and took the lead in the early exchanges as Greg Langridge finished off excellent approach work and Nathan Holmes slotted the extras.

Worthing hit back quickly with two

converted tries as they controlled territory.

A scrum penalty enabled them to stretch the lead to 17-7 at the break and TJs needed to rally.

The Tonbridge side have shown they can make significant improvements in the second half.

A bright start was capped by a Hugo Watson try to close the gap to 17-12 and the tension began to mount.

Will Colderick crossed for TJs and Holmes converted to edge in front at

19-17 with 15 minutes to go.

TJs had a strong foothold in the Worthing half but the hosts managed to escape with a series of penalties before slotting one of them to go 20-19 in front.

Worthing stayed upfield and on the front foot, securing another penalty to seal a much-needed win for them – and consign TJs to their fifth defeat on the bounce.

A losing bonus point was little consolation on the journey home.

Tonbridge are on the road again on Saturday [November 4] at Broadstreet in Coventry [kick-off 2.30pm].

PHOTO: Adam Hookway

Another narrow defeat for TJs

FINE LINE Hugo Watson scores to close the gap

Doherty leads fightback but brave Wells end up just short Tunbridge Wells 30 Hertford 32

By Roger Clarke

PHOTO: Bruce Elliott

RUGBY:

RYAN’S EXPRESS Taylor-Dennehy storms ahead

AFTER three wins on the bounce Wells played host to Hertford in what proved another entertaining encounter.

Hertford counter-attacked from a turnover and went the length of the field to score under the posts through centre Richard Streets after just two minutes, Sean Taylor converting.

After conceding a penalty, Wells responded through the industry of player coach Dave Allen and after 18 minutes Mac Popham dived over.

Ryan Taylor-Dennehy, standing in at flyhalf for the injured Frank Reynolds, added the extras.

A penalty slotted by each side left the

score at 13-10 to the visitors at half-time.

Taylor-Dennehy added another kick on 50 minutes to draw level.

Hertford enjoyed a 10-minute spell when they opened up what appeared to be an unassailable lead as the home defensive line went missing.

On 58 minutes Hertford centre Aaron Lowe took advantage of a three-man overlap on the left with Taylor kicking the goal points.

Four minutes later the away team got around the back of the Wells line again with fly-half Ben Lloyd scoring an unconverted try.

Taylor rounded off a three-try assault on 67 minutes with a mazy run to the posts and a conversion of his own try to take the score to 13-32.

But this Wells side never lies down and No 8 Nick Doherty surged through the middle to dive over on 72 minutes.

Garwood goal keeps up Wells’ unbeaten record

Spurred on further by a yellow card for the visitors, centre Shadyn Osgood charged down the right touchline and put in a perfect reverse pass to Ollie Allman, who dived over in the corner to make it 23-32.

A win suddenly looked possible and on 82 minutes Nick Doherty rounded off good team handling effort to dive over under the posts for his second score.

Taylor-Dennehy added the conversion to reduce the deficit to two points, but Wells had to settle for a try bonus for the sixth time this season.

A losing bonus point for being within seven points allowed them to retain sixth place in the London & South-East Premier while Hertford stayed in fourth.

On Saturday [November 4] Tunbridge Wells travel to Dorking when they hope to have stand-off Reynolds back in action [kick-off 3pm].

Alexander impresses as Ladies show form

Tunbridge Wells Men’s 1st XI 1 Bournemouth 1

Old Loughtonians 0 Tunbridge Wells Ladies’ 1st XI 4

By Francis Bridgeman

By Francis Bridgeman

HOCKEY: AFTER four wins from four to start the season, Tunbridge Wells had to settle for a share of the points against a tough Bournemouth outfit.

Bournemouth found themselves camped in their own half and their centre-back often resorted to an aerial route to clear the Wells press.

The hosts were failing to complete passes and gave away possession.

But after the Bournemouth keeper had managed to save a drag flick from a short corner, James Beck fed

the rebound to Jack Garwood, who deflected it into the goal.

A lapse of concentration by the Wells’ defence gave the opposition space and they forced the ball into the net after multiple deflections.

It was all level at the break but although Wells secured a handful of short corners in the second half, they could not capitalise.

Wells remain unbeaten at the top of South Premier League Division Two. Another big game awaits as they head to second-placed West Hampstead on Saturday [November 4].

TOP FORM Harriet Alexander deserved her goal

HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ladies made it two convincing wins in a row as they moved up to fifth place in East Region Division One South.

The visitors got off to a strong start but the deadlock was not broken until late in the first half, Bertie Organ scoring after a well-worked short corner routine.

The second half was all Wells pressure, which was rewarded by clinical finishing from Ana Glubb.

Player of the match Harriet Alexander capped a fine all-round display with a deserved goal.

A fine solo effort from Glubb completed the victory.

Wells leapfrogged Upminster, who they now host on Saturday [November 4] at Hawkenbury.