Times of Tunbridge Wells April 12 2023

By Lilly Croucher

THOUSANDS of hospital patients and school students in Tunbridge Wells are likely to be impacted by further strike action this month, as both doctors and teachers walk out over pay and working conditions.

Patients attending hospital appointments this week face disruption as junior doctors from Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) continue into their second day of a 96-hour walk out.

Dr Ishani Rao, a junior doctor at MTW said: “We are striking again because, unfortunately, there was no effort made by the Government to improve working conditions, to achieve the pay

restoration that we work hard for, or to ensure long-term systematic changes to achieve patient safety.

“It’s been pretty morally conflicting

for a lot of us, but I believe that we need to take a stand to say that current conditions are completely inadequate.

“I hope that the Government realises

how valuable we are to the healthcare system and that we should be invested in properly in order to retain junior doctors.”

The strike is expected to impact a quarter of a million appointments this week following the first 72-hour walk out in March which saw 175,000 hospital appointments disrupted.

The British Medical Association (BMA) said that junior doctors have seen a realterm pay cut of 26.2 per cent since 2008, and it is asking for a 35 per cent pay increase to achieve pay restoration.

On March 23, the BMA announced further strike action would take place, from 7am on Tuesday April 11 until 7am

Continued on page 3

‘I hope that the Government realises how valuable we are to the healthcare system and that we should be invested in properly’

this week…

Six seats up for grabs as local councillors step down or move

By Victoria Roberts

SIXTEEN of the Borough Council’s 48 seats are to be contested this May in an election notable for the movement of councillors: either leaving the Council or, in one case, moving to another ward.

Six councillors are stepping down, including Cllr Linda Hall (Conservative – Goudhurst and Lamberhurst), first elected in May 2007, Planning Committee Chair Cllr Trevor Poile (Liberal Democrat – Southborough North) and Cllr Lucy Willis (Alliance – Speldhurst & Bidborough), who ousted former Conservative Leader David Jukes in 2019.

Cllr Luke Everitt (Labour – Southborough & High Brooms), the Cabinet Member for Environment, Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, is also stepping down.

Independents

Two of those stepping down currently sit as independents.

Both Cllr James Rands and Cllr Andrew Hickey had originally been elected as Liberal Democrats and both individually left the local party over the course of last year.

Cllr Rands left the local party early last year following what he called a ‘factional’ rift in the

party. However, announcing his decision not to contest this election, he endorsed the Lib Dem candidate.

Cllr Hickey left the local Lib Dems and his post as Cabinet member for Finance and Performance last August, following last year’s backlash against the Borough Partnership coalition’s proposals to introduce parking charges at Council-run car parks in Paddock Wood and Southborough without prior consultation.

In an electoral twist, the other two independents on the Council will face one another at the ballot box in Paddock Wood East.

Cllr Rodney Atkins is part of the Borough Partnership coalition, but is re-standing as an independent in Paddock Wood East, where he will face five other candidates, including Cllr Matthew Bailey, who is leaving his Paddock Wood West seat to contest the neighbouring ward.

Cllr Bailey sat as a Conservative for Paddock Wood West until January 2022, when he left the party over the ‘partygate’ scandal, becoming an independent. He has registered the Royal Tunbridge Wells Residents Party with the Electoral Commission, to be called the Residents Party. The only other Residents Party candidate in the election, Linda Store, will contest Cllr Bailey’s old seat of Paddock Wood West.

SEATS BEING CONTESTED CURRENT HOLDER PARTY

Benenden & Cranbrook Cllr Nancy WARNE

Culverden Cllr James RANDS (stepping down)

Frittenden & Sissinghurst Cllr Andy FAIRWEATHER Conservative

Goudhurst & Lamberhurst Cllr Dr Linda HALL (stepping down) Conservative

Hawkhurst & Sandhurst Cllr Godfrey BLAND Conservative

Paddock Wood East Cllr Rodney ATKINS Independent

Paddock Wood West Cllr Matthew BAILEY (changing ward) Independent

Pantiles & St Mark’s Cllr Andy HICKEY (stepping down) Independent Park Cllr Christian ATTWOOD Conservative

Pembury Cllr David HAYWARD Alliance

Rusthall Cllr Dave FUNNELL Lib Dem

Sherwood Cllr Hugo POUND Labour

Southborough & High Brooms Cllr Luke EVERITT (stepping down) Labour

Southborough North Cllr Trevor POILE (stepping down) Lib Dem

Speldhurst & Bidborough Cllr Lucy WILLIS (stepping down) Alliance

St John’s Cllr Marguerita MORTON Lib Dem

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England has not yet confirmed the outcome of its review of the number of councillors, wards and ward names for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. However, if its proposals are confirmed, next year will see an ‘all-out’ election in 2024, with potentially 48 councillors competing with one another, and with challenger candidates for 39 seats in 13 wards, and many more opportunities for candidates to use their calculators.

CURRENT MAKE-UP OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH COUNCIL

Borough Partnership coalition

LIBERAL DEMOCRATS 15

(3 seats up for election)

ALLIANCE 9

(3 seats up for election)

LABOUR PARTY 7

(2 seats up for election)

INDEPENDENT 1

(1 seat up for election)

EDITOR MICHELLE WOOD michelle.wood@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 240626

DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 576037

CHIEF REPORTER VICTORIA ROBERTS | 01892 779615

NEWS REPORTER LILY CROUCHER | 01892 240626 newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uk

DESIGN/PRODUCTION

JASON STUBBS jason.stubbs@onemediauk.co.uk

ADVERTISING 07557 847841 robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk

FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews www.timeslocalnews.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

Car dealership group seeks a final parking place for ‘motor village’ plan

By Lilly Croucher

A PLAN to create a ‘motor village’ on the site of the former John Lewis at Home store is to be voted on by Borough planners tonight (April 12), after a long journey through the planning process.

The Hendy Group focused on the North Farm location following a rebuff to an earlier application.

Petition

Bewl Events & Waterpark are owned by the Elite Leisure Collection, which also owns One Media, publisher of the Times

It had previously wanted to build a £25million dealership hub, which would have included showrooms and workshops, next to the Tesco Superstore in Pembury.

However, the original plans were subject to protests from villagers, a petition that garnered 1,000 signatures and scores of objections, including from Pembury Parish Council.

That scheme was denied planning permission in October 2020, with councillors saying they wanted to retain the Pembury site for a park and ride scheme.

However, plans for such a scheme were later dropped by the Borough Council.

Although Hendy initially said it was confident that it would “win any appeal”, it went on to lodge a different application to build a “fivebrand” motor dealership on the abandoned 2.4-acre John Lewis site.

The John Lewis store was one of eight closed by the chain in April 2021, when Covid restrictions were lifted and the department store giant underwent a major shift in strategy to adapt to changing shopping habits.

Hendy’s move to the North Farm area of the town would see the group’s existing showrooms in Mount Ephraim close, with a view to those sites being redeveloped for housing.

CONSERVATIVE PARTY 13

(4 seats up for election)

Opposition INDEPENDENT 3

(3 seats up for election)

HAVE YOUR SAY:

Each week the Times runs a series of social media polls that ask our readers for their opinions on the Borough’s biggest stories.

To participate in the polls, simply follow the Times on Instagram or Twitter using the handle @timeslocalnews

SHOULD DOGS BE ALLOWED OFF LEADS IN OUR LOCAL PARKS?

YES (53% ) Of course, why shouldn’t they be?

NO (47%) They should be on a lead at all times!

WHAT PRICE OF A PINT WOULD STOP YOU FROM GOING TO THE PUB REGULARLY ?

UP TO £7 (74%)

£8 (19%)

£9 (7%)

Thackeray’s not for sale, says owner

LAST week, the Times reported that Thackeray’s restaurant was up for sale. However, in subsequent discussions, owner Richard Phillips categorically denied that the restaurant was for sale and emphasised that any online listing had not been placed by him or his team.

“My business is thriving and we have no intention of selling, now or in the future,” he said. Mr Phillips added that he would like to assure both his staff and customers that it was business as usual at the popular restaurant.

Lymphoma Action webinar this month

LYMPHOMA Action is hosting a webinar on April 26 from 12:30-1:30pm about chemotherapy.

The panel will include a healthcare professional, a Lymphoma Action chair, and three individuals who have experienced chemotherapy.

This webinar will help people prepare for chemotherapy in the future and answer any questions one may have. It is an opportunity to hear coping strategies developed by those who have had treatment, and will also help families support loved ones going through the treatment. To find out more or to book a free space on the webinar, visit lymphoma-action.org.uk/ ChemoWebinar2

Pensioner targeted by wallet thieves

SHOPPERS are reminded to keep their wallets safe after a reported theft in Calverley Park Gardens on Monday April 3 around 10am.

Two women stopped a man and asked for directions. Shortly afterwards, he found his bank card had been stolen. His card was then used in a failed attempt to steal a large quantity of cash.

Detective Inspector Rik Spicer said: “I would remind shoppers to be careful when out and about to avoid becoming victim of opportunist thieves.

“If possible, keep wallets in a zipped or buttoned pocket and never leave handbags unattended on top of prams, shopping trolleys, wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

“These criminals often work in pairs and, if an unknown person stops you and asks for directions, be alert for a second suspect.”

Anyone with information should contact 01622 604100 quoting “4-708”. Or call Crimestoppers at 0800 555111, or visit crimestoppers-uk.org

Community order after officer assault

LIAM Harvey, who punched an off-duty police officer in the throat, has been placed on a 12-month community order that will see him complete 300 hours of unpaid work and attend 10 rehabilitation sessions with probation.

Off-duty PC Holly Ronaldson was punched in the throat after she told a man he was under arrest following an assault in a car in Mount Pleasant Road on July 30 last year.

When PC Ronaldson attempted to stop the man from fleeing, Harvey threatened to stab those in his way. He then punched her in the throat and head before kicking in the face and spitting at another man who had come to her aid.

Harvey appeared at the Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on March 27, charged with assault by beating, and assault on an emergency worker. He admitted both charges and was ordered to pay £150 compensation to the man who had tried to come to the aid of the PC, and £100 to PC Ronaldson, as well as a £114 victim surcharge, and £85 costs.

Strike action continues this week

Continued from front page

on Saturday April 15, after talks with the Health Secretary failed to present a “credible offer” to the doctors’ union.

Dr Vivek Trivedi and Dr Robert Laurenson, Co-chairs of the BMA Junior Doctor Committee, said: “It is with disappointment and great frustration that we must announce this new industrial action.

“The Government has dragged its feet at every opportunity. It has not presented any credible offer and is refusing to accept that there is any case for pay restoration, describing our central ask as ‘unrealistic’ and ‘unreasonable’.”

But the Government has said that the demands from the union are ‘unacceptable’ at a time when people are struggling with the cost of living.

Speaking to the House of Commons on March 30, Steve Barclay, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care said: “The BMA’s Junior Doctors Committee’s refusal to engage in conversations unless we commit to delivering a 35 per cent pay increase is unacceptable at a time of considerable economic pressure and suggests a leadership that is adopting a militant position, rather than working constructively with the Government in the interests of patients.”

The union has also come under criticism for their choice of dates, which started directly after the Easter weekend, resulting in a total of 10 days when already limited NHS staff were stretched across departments.

MTW said: “This is four days of strikes involving up to half of doctors in the NHS

coming immediately after a four-day bank holiday weekend.

“The NHS is facing record demand, and the long bank holiday weekend is usually one of the busiest times for the NHS, with staff working incredibly hard to maintain services.

“We are working hard to prioritise resources

to protect emergency treatment, critical care, neonatal care, maternity, and trauma, and [we] ensure we prioritise patients who have waited the longest for elective care and cancer surgery.

“We will only reschedule appointments and procedures where necessary and will rebook immediately, where possible. Unfortunately, these strikes will have a significant impact upon planned and routine care.”

In response to the strike days Dr Rao said: “There is never going to be ideal timing for a large-scale walk-out like this, but I hope that this makes the general public and Government appreciate junior doctors and our work. Departments are already stretched so this is an environment that we’ve been used to for a long time.”

As doctors’ strikes continue until the end of this week, teachers at schools across Tunbridge Wells are preparing to walk out of classrooms

on April 27 and May 2, after rejecting the Government’s pay offer last week.

Almost 200,000 members of the National Education Union (NEU) voted overwhelmingly (98 per cent) against Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan’s offer of a £1,000 one-off payment and a 4.5 per cent pay rise next year.

Tom Hoskins, NEU Joint Secretary for West Kent, told the Times: “It is not surprising that the offer has been rejected. The offer was not fully funded, meaning teachers in England would see their pay fall even further behind their counterparts in Wales and Scotland.

“It would represent accepting an additional two years of real-term pay cuts, and it would do nothing to reverse the problems of recruitment and retention.

“As before, the announcement of strike days is to get the Government to the negotiating table. We should not have needed four days of strike action to meet, as we do not need to take these two days of action, but this Government would not meet before we followed through with four days of action.

“The next days of action are still over three weeks away. That is ample time for the Government to take note of the strength of feeling within our and other education unions, and to meet to discuss an improved offer that addresses the points listed above to have a realistic chance of being accepted.”

Thousands of students across the Borough are expected to be impacted by the strikes in the run up to their end-of-year exams. An estimated 7,000 students were affected by strikes last month.

Teachers have been asking for a fully-funded pay rise above inflation.

South East Water Community Fund pays out to 100 charitable causes

By Sharon Bruce

ONE hundred good causes across Tunbridge Wells recently received a share of a £100,000 community fund that was set up by South East Water as compensation for the disruption caused by water supply issues in the area at the end of 2022.

South East Water recently joined with the town’s MP, Greg Clark, at a ceremony at the Trinity Theatre to distribute the cash to 100 local charities, with sums ranging from £500 to £5,000. Trinity Theatre itself received a grant of £1,500.

The beneficiaries, both groups and organisations, were chosen by Mr Clark and a judging panel after being invited to apply for a share of the fund.

South East Water’s Customer Service Director Tanya Sephton said: “We know it was a very tough time for the whole community, especially as it happened during the festive season.

“We take our role as a responsible water company seriously and wanted to thank Tunbridge Wells residents for their understanding. This is a gesture that will have a long-term benefit for everyone. A big thank you to them all.”

Mr Clark said: “Following the water outages last December, my priority was to ensure that individual households were compensated. South East Water listened to my concerns by going

beyond the statutory minimum and paying households up to £250 – more than the average bill for a year. This resulted in £1.8 million paid out in compensation to households in my constituency.

“However, I am delighted that South East Water have gone one step further and recognised the impact that these outages had on the community as a whole, by generously endowing this community fund, which will benefit so many good causes.”

Among the recipients of the £5,000 grant were Mental Health Resource, who said in response to the funding: “Tunbridge Wells is the third-ranking district across Kent and Medway for prevalence of serious mental health disorders.

“With grants such as this award, Mental Health Resource can reach even more people in our town who desperately need support at this challenging time, through providing free and

confidential safe spaces and wellbeing

activities.”

Among the charities that received a £1,500 grant was the Tunbridge Wells Community Larder, which provides fresh food, including fruit and vegetables, to those in need.

John Payne from the charity said: “The grant will enable us to continue to meet a vital need of supporting those in need in the community. It will also enable us to supplement what we provide through purchasing basic goods we find it difficult to get hold of.”

A representative of Pickering Cancer Care, another beneficiary of a £1,500 boost, said: “It means we can keep our smile Fund topped up and keep putting smiles on our visitor’s faces.”

Amounts of £500 were also awarded to a range of causes, including Friends of Dunorlan Park, Folly Wildlife Rescue and the Claremont Primary School PTA, among others.

‘The Government has dragged its feet at every opportunity. It has not presented any credible offer and is refusing to accept that there is any case for pay restoration’

‘We take our role as a responsible water company seriously and wanted to thank Tunbridge Wells residents for their understanding’

WATER AID: Greg Clark MP, pictured with the beneficiaries at Trinity Theatre

Local pubs feel the pinch but brewery still profits

By Lilly Croucher & Sharon Bruce

SHEPHERD Neame Brewery has warned that inflationary pressures could result in increased prices in its pubs. Despite this, the brewery reported 8.4% growth in the last six months of 2022, and local affiliated pubs are still struggling to manage the cost-of-living crisis.

Shepherd Neame brewery recently reported that revenue had grown by 8.4 per cent to £85.3million in the six months leading up to Christmas eve, with gross profit before tax at £53.5million. This is a 15.5 per cent increase on the first half of 2022.

Bills

However, for Shepherd Neame pubs in Tunbridge Wells, the story is not the same, with profits being “absorbed” by utility bills and businesses trying to keep their “heads above water” amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Last year, according to Government data, 32 pubs closed across England each month after being hit by the extreme challenges associated with Covid-19, rising energy costs and inflation.

Teresa Barrett, Landlady of the Shepherd Neame The Black Horse, Camden Road, told the Times: “Utility bills are the biggest thing affecting the pubs at the moment and wholesale prices are getting worse and worse.”

Teresa explained how she now pays £93 a day on gas and electric, almost £34,000 a year, which includes the Government’s top-up.

“I’d say my energy bills have increased by three or four times from last year, which has led us to go to some extreme lengths to cut down on our bills.

“We have started to experiment with the chiller in the cellar by doing lots of temperature checks to see how long we can turn it off without affecting the beer.

“Right now, our cheapest pint is £4.90. Last year, it was £4.70, but we don’t really see the difference.

“I live at the pub and my bills and rent are paid, but I haven’t had a wage for myself since August 2022 because all the profits have been swallowed up by utilities.

“Hopefully in the summer, we can turn the heating off, but right now it’s about keeping our heads above water.”

James Cunningham, Owner of the Camden Arms Hotel, told the Times: “The industry still hasn’t recovered from covid. We have had to tweak our current prices to keep up with the extreme pressures of the energy prices.

“Our cheapest beer right now is £5.30. That’s a 50 pence increase from last year, but we make less margin because all the profit is absorbed by the energy costs.

“Before we were paying between £3,000£4,000 a month for energy, but now we are paying between £9,500-£10,000 a month.

“It means we have had to close in the afternoons because we don’t have the manpower to operate, and we’ve had to put our food prices up, because that’s gone up, too.”

Investing

Nevertheless, the country’s oldest brewery, founded in 1698, has supported its landlords through the events of the last three years by investing in their buildings and pausing their rent payments during the lockdown.

Ms Barrett told the Times: “Shepherd Neame recently gave us a full refurbishment probably costing around £60,000. They also gave us phenomenal support by not charging us rent during the lockdown and easing us back into our payments when we reopened. Without that support, I don’t know if we would’ve survived.

Of the brewery, Mr Cunningham told the Times: “Shepherd Neame are fine to work with and have been very supportive during Covid, so we have no complaints.”

Shepherd Neame is based in Faversham, brewing a range of craft beers including Master Brew, Spitfire, Bishops Finger, and Whitstable Bay. Ironically, Faversham is also the location of the latest Shepherd Neame pub to close. The Brewery’s Managing Director – Pubs, Jonathon Swaine said: “Our recently published Interim Results show that our company is making good progress.

“Our profit levels have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels, and we have been impacted by the inflationary surge in the wider economy, with huge increases in food, energy, glass, brewing raw materials, packaging waste and logistics.

“We appreciate that these inflationary pressures are also creating challenges for our licensees and are working with them to offer every support possible to help them preserve the future of their businesses.

“This has been a tough time for anyone in the hospitality sector, but we are now focused on maximising growth potential through delivering our investment and project plans.

“We have an excellent pub estate with considerable potential, well-established

brands, a loyal customer base, and a high profile within the individual communities we serve.

“All these factors will stand us in good stead as the cost-of-living crisis eases and the economy returns to growth.”

Beyond Shepherd Neame, other pubs and restaurants around the town have also felt the pinch of tightened purse strings and are making their best efforts to ensure value for the customer, to keep footfall through the door.

Molly Miller, speaking on behalf of OneWarwick Hotel, near The Pantiles, reiterated this: “We've hung back as the price of drinks continues to rise. We have a loyal customer base at both The Brasserie and our hotel bar, and we don't want to pass that price increase on.

“We will always do our level best to keep going out as affordable as possible.”

WHAT DO YOU SAY?

THE Times took to the streets to ask you how you felt about the rising cost of a pint, and what it would take to keep you from frequenting your regular.

Anthony Tucker

“I don’t get to the pub as often as I’d like to, but it’s probably about once a week. For me, personally, when pints keep going up in price, it becomes cheaper to drink at home. But we really come for the social aspect, don’t we?”

Paul Guest

“I try to get to the pub about once a week, if I’m available and don’t have other plans. Look, the price of everything is going up, and we come for the social side of it. I think the only thing that would keep me out of the pub was if I had too many beers and got barred from coming back!”

Melissa Burford

“I’ve worked in pubs since I was 18 and they’re part of my life. When I’m not working, I still visit. I’m in several times a week. If people really want a drink, they’ll find the money for it. They’re such social places, aren’t they?”

Sharon Wood

“If pubs had to raise costs to £10 a pint, you would see me less than my once a week – unless I had a corresponding salary increase!”

Implications of the National Living Wage

The National Living Wage saw one of its largest increases in history on the 1st April and it’s no joke if you fall foul. It is illegal to pay staff less than the National Living Wage with fines of up to £20,000 per worker if found guilty.

When I first came into recruitment, the national minimum wage, as it was known then, was just £5.05. Thankfully it is now £10.42 for over 23-year-olds, has this increased accordingly in line with inflation?

That’s a debate for another time.

£10.42 per hour for a member of staff over the age of 23, translates to an annual salary of £20,319 based on a 37.5-hour week. The calculation is simple; hourly rate x 37.5 hours per week x 52 weeks of

the year which means the annual salary will fluctuate depending on the number of hours worked each week and the age of the worker. At TN Recruits, we don’t claim to be HR experts, if you have any HR queries from an employer or employee perspective contact Sophie Forrest-Lavery of Forrest HR 01892 726060 or email hello@forresthr. com

From a recruitment perspective, the market remains competitive so to attract and retain the best staff, we will always advise salaries are regularly reviewed and this is something we can assist with. For all your recruitment needs neil@tnrecruits.com 01892 571105 www.tnrecruits.com

Picture: Shutterstock

Pink Floyd star leads classic car drive for Childline fund

By Lilly Croucher

CLASSIC car enthusiasts are set to participate in National ‘Drive It Day’ events across the South East to raise money for Childline.

The annual motoring rally, organised by the Federation of British Historic Vehicles Clubs (FBHVC) and led by Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason, will see motoring fans meeting up to share their love of cars and drive through the English countryside on Sunday April 23.

Stories

Downton

jewellery

goes on display for Arts Society

A LITTLE bit of Downton Abbey sparkle came to town this month, when The Arts Society Pantiles saw a display of tiaras, brooches and necklaces worn by the stars of the show. So although not here in person, one could say that the likes of Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Lily James and Elizabeth McGovern have all visited Royal Tunbridge Wells!

Precision

Andrew Prince, who began his jewellery career in Bond Street and at the renowned Harrods Fine Jewellery Room, was commissioned to design and make the items for the much-loved TV series.

Mr Prince now delivers lectures around the world, often taking along many of the pieces he has made. They are designed with the precision and detail that is essential if they are to show the glittery opulence of the time, and stand up to scrutiny on millions of large-screen televisions around the world.

Mr Prince also made jewellery for Emily Blunt when she starred in The Young Victoria. He said: “Jewellery should be about beauty not cost. If it has to be locked up, it’s not a jewel – it’s a worry.”

The Arts Society Pantiles meets monthly at Holmewood House School. Visitors are always welcome. For details of future meetings, visit: theartssocietypantiles.org.uk

Meet-ups will take place across Kent and Hampshire, where participants can purchase FBHVC’s special ChildLine Rally Plates, with proceeds going to the NSPCC service. Last year’s Drive It Day events raised £47,000.

In Kent, motoring enthusiasts will gather at Chiddingstone Castle near Edenbridge to see and appreciate the classic cars, and share motoring stories before setting off on a drive through the picturesque Kent villages and towns.

All pre-1980s marques are welcome and those attending can enjoy a cream tea while they wander the stunning grounds, lakeside, and woodlands.

The Austin Healey Club will also be hosting an untimed, non-competitive rally across various start points in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex from 11.30am and finishing at Bough Beech, Kent.

Further afield, in Hampshire, the Classic Vehicle Group is hosting a drive beginning at The Angel at Privett on the A32.

Attendees can have a tasty breakfast, after which they will drive through the Meon Valley, Bishop’s Waltham, Southampton Water, Itchen Bridge and on to the destination of Solent Sky.

The Drive It Day will be led by the Pink Floyd legend and motor enthusiast, Nick Mason, who is this year’s NSPCC Ambassador.

Nick said: “I am incredibly excited to be involved in this year’s Drive It Day. It’s a great event – especially for those, like me, who love motorsports and vintage cars.

“Drive It Day always raises an amazing amount of money for the charity and it is my hope that we can get even more this year.”

Michele Baxter, NSPCC’s Drive It Day Manager for the South East said: “Last year, Drive It Day raised £47,000 for Childline, our free counselling service for children and young people, through club support and Rally Plate sales.

“We are delighted that the FBHVC are supporting us again this year, and hope that the partnership continues to grow.

“It is sure to be a fantastic day, so I would encourage everyone to get involved.”

The fundraising event was created by the federation in 2005 for motoring fans and the public to celebrate the ‘One Thousand Mile Trial’, which began in 1900 to prove the viability of the vehicles of the time.

To take part and find out how to buy a Charity Rally Plate and discover more about your nearest Drive It Day event, visit: driveitday.co.uk

Baked British lemon sole served with sautéed new potatoes, a creamy chardonnay and parsley sauce, crispy capers and a Morecambe Bay brown shrimp butter

THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL

ONLY FRIDAY 14TH & SATURDAY 15TH APRIL

“WE WENT TO THE BRASSERIE TO CELEBRATE A BIRTHDAY. EXCELLENT CHOICE OF FOOD. FOOD PRESENTATION WAS EXCELLENT. STAFF WERE LOVELY. WE WILL DEFINITELY GO AGAIN”

STARS OF THE SHOW:

The Downton Abbey jewels

Pub Cup returns to the town with big support

By Lilly Croucher

AN AWARD for the best pub in the town returns for the first time since Covid in effort to help promote local venues during the cost-of-living crisis.

Martin Bryant, a Kent Police Detective from Tunbridge Wells, started the competition on social media as a “bit of fun” for him and his friends.

Eurovision to be shown live at Tonbridge Castle Lawn

By Alice Reece

THIS year’s Eurovision Song Contest is to be live-streamed to Castle Lawn in Tonbridge, for “a gigantic celebration that the area needs”.

Tickets for the official ceremony in Liverpool on May 13 sold out in 35 minutes, and “demand to join in the party is spilling out everywhere” said Andy Brett, the long-time organiser of the Tonbridge Music Weekend.

“My friends said to me, ‘Andy, we love Eurovision. Won’t you organise a party?’”

Liverpool won the bid to host the contest in the UK on behalf of last year’s winners Ukraine, but the true hosts of the contest will be honoured with a special Ukrainian guest list at the Tonbridge event, he said.

“I am inviting 50 Ukranian nationals to attend, and offering them a free ticket to the event, so they can support their country in this year’s

event, having won it last year.”

Meanwhile, he is planning Facebook advertising of the event, which will allow locally-based Ukrainians to message him for half-price tickets.

Enclosure

The BBC broadcast of the show will be live-streamed to a giant screen on Castle Lawn, with food and drink available in the enclosure. Flags and national dress are encouraged.

“I love music, and I love people having a good time,” said Andy.

The Eurovision Final Live Stream will be held on Castle Lawn, Tonbridge Castle, on May 13 at 5.30-11.30pm. Full-price tickets are £16 (adult) and £6 (child), plus booking fee.

Tickets can be bought through the link at: tonbridgecastle.org

He told the Times: “This is the first one I’ve done since the Covid lockdowns. It’s good fun and it’s a nice bit of advertising for local pubs still dealing with the effects of the past three years.

Polls

“A few years ago, I saw some polls on Twitter and thought it would be a bit of fun for me and my friends, so I started posting polls on the pubs in the area.

“But then one of my posts was retweeted by Dame Kelly Holmes, and suddenly it blew up and it had ens of thousands of people looking at it, giving it lots of exposure. It sort grew from there.”

From there, the ‘Best Pub Cup’ was formed using thousands of votes on social media in a knockout-style tournament to determine the best pub in Tunbridge Wells.

Last week, the first round saw 44 pubs competing across 10 groups in the Instagram polls, which halved the numbers down to 22 pubs that will now battle it out in the next round of polls this week.

Some pubs still in the running are the Beau Nash, Cassidy’s, Saint John’s Yard, The Tiger Tavern, Fuggles, The Pantiles Tap, The George, Fonthill Tap Room, Framptons, The

George

The previous three competitions had been won by reigning champions Saint John’s Yard after thousands of votes were cast in favour of the independent community pub.

“I am looking forward to seeing who wins this year. So far, we have had almost a thousand votes cast just in the first round, so it’s great to see that people are getting involved,” Mr Bryant continued.

“I am doing the polls on Instagram stories as it is easier for everyone to see the results and will hopefully engage more people who will vote for the pubs.”

The winner will be announced in the next couple of weeks where they will receive an engraved trophy with a little trophy presentation by Mr Bryant.

To have your vote in Tunbridge Wells’ Best Pub Cup and keep up with the lastest stories, follow @bestpubcup on Instagram

& Dragon and The Duke of York.

ANOTHER ROUND: Martin Bryant (left) with Ish Rafet, owner of Saint John’s Yard

The future is hybrid as local firms adapt to suit and serve employees

By Lilly Croucher and Victoria Roberts

A RECENT reader poll conducted by the Times revealed that 89 per cent of people would like to move towards working a four-day week. While the idea is a hit with some staff and employers, the model does not meet the needs of every sector.

Last year, the four-day week was put to the test at 61 companies across the UK, which reduced work hours for nearly 3,000 employees with no loss of pay.

The ‘4 Day Week Campaign’, which ran the six-month trial, reported that almost all of the companies – 92 per cent – continued with the new working week after the trial ended.

Phenomenal

One local company which ran its own trial of the scheme last year is TN Recruits in Lonsdale Gardens. It made the change permanent in December 2022 in the wake of its phenomenal success.

With the company open five days a week, TN Recruits’ 14 full-time recruitment consultants run a ‘buddy system’ where they work ‘opposite’ days, allowing them to work only four days per week.

Neil Simmons, Director at TN Recruits, told the Times: “We found that our staff were less stressed and more rested. Productivity had

There is no single form of flexibility, she stressed.

“We are finding that the majority of employees are actually missing collaboration, missing being with their work colleagues, so the hybrid model helps everyone juggle the logistics of childcare and travel expenses but hybrid can only work for those businesses not in the customer-facing, service industries.”

Gavin Tyler, Managing Partner of Mount Ephraim-based law firm Cripps, said the professional services sector was at the forefront of innovation, being conscious of “supporting people to work in a way that suits both them and their business”.

increased and from the six months before to the six months after, revenue had risen by seven per cent, which is great for business.”

“We have even seen more candidates applying to work with us and the retention rate of our staff has increased, too.”

Citing his dual role as a recruiter and a father, Mr Simmons added that parents were also benefiting, and companies could, too.

“I am very passionate in a belief that there is so much untapped talent out there – so many parents who are willing to take on a part-time role, and will end up doing as much as full-time people, even on reduced hours.

“Half of the team at TN Recruits (10 of us) are working parents, and they do a fantastic job. The four-day week really helps.”

Local business champion Matthew Sankey told the Times: “We actually started doing this at Sankey’s after the lockdowns. We worked out that people really valued their own personal time, so now all our staff get three days off, and these are consecutive.

“They still get their 48 contracted hours, and this works because of our opening hours. We have found this makes the rota far simpler.

“I fully endorse any practice that makes life better for the employees in the town. If businesses can find new ways of working,

then that’s all for the better in my opinion.

“With recruitment becoming more and more difficult, it’s clear to me that those businesses that can think outside of the box are going to be able to attract the better and brighter talent. That’s for sure.”

However, Mr Simmons cautioned that the practice was not yet widespread, nor was demand.

“The four-day week is still scarcely implemented. We have one client who has been trialling it and are undecided as to whether it works for them, so have extended their trial. Aside from that, it’s not something we hear [a

great deal] about locally.”

By contrast, hybrid working has become more widespread, he noted.

“Most local companies offer some kind of hybrid working. In fact when we are telling candidates about a role, they will often ask if there is hybrid working and if the answer is a ‘no’, it can be off-putting to the candidate in some cases.

“Some employers do give one or two days ‘charity-work-leave’ per annum, but it’s not a widespread thing,” said Mr Simmons.

A great deal depends on the sector, according to Wendy Read, founder of HR Revolution, which offers recruitment and outsourced HR.

With over 100 retained clients, and over 200 clients on account, just two are currently a four-day working week, she told the Times.

“The difficulty comes in finding a solution that suits everyone, employees, the business and clients or customers,” she said.

“Some have trialled four-day working weeks and it’s not worked, so they’ve reverted back to five-day weeks, but with hybrid models that allow people to work from home or work remotely for a part of the week. We have companies that offer roaming work (work from anywhere) which is great for those businesses that are online.”

Yet despite being open to different forms of working, outcomes do vary.

He said: “We operate a hybrid working environment and 30 per cent of our people have a form of flexible or part-time working agreed, with a four-day week becoming ever more popular, albeit with a pro-rata salary.

“There is clearly potential in looking at a four-day week with no reduction in pay, but for this to succeed we would need to increase efficiencies, make significant further investment in technology and develop an even better understanding of the needs of our clients,” Mr Tyler said.

“For now, our flexible options for all our people are working well, but we will continue to look at new ways of working that support our people, as well as continually improving the service we provide to our clients.”

Echoing the sentiment about customer service, Joanna Pratt, Senior Partner at Thomson Snell & Passmore, stressed: “We are committed to championing hybrid and flexible work arrangements for everyone at the firm where jobs allow and for people who wish to work in different ways.”

However, she confirmed: “In order to maintain our excellent service to clients, we are not currently considering introducing a four-day week.”

WENDY READ: HR REVOLUTION JOANNA PRATT: THOMSON SNELL & PASSMORE

‘With recruitment becoming more and more difficult, it’s clear to me that those businesses that can think outside of the box are going to be able to attract the better and brighter talent’

Picture: Shutterstock

FOUR-DAY WORKING: The TN Recruits team

Southeastern named as a ‘Menopause Friendly’ firm

By Victoria Roberts

SOUTHEASTERN railway has won accreditation as a ‘Menopause Friendly’ employer from an organisation that campaigns for the rights of women in the workplace.

The rail operator has been recognised for its efforts in introducing culture, policies and working practices that take into account the potential impact of the menopause on female staff.

Recognition

The accreditation was awarded by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace.

Maureen Dominey, chair of the Women’s Network Group at Southeastern, said the company had launched its menopause policy in 2019, and was especially pleased to gain such recognition within a traditionally maledominated industry.

“We have more than 500 female employees aged 40 or above, but it’s important to remember that it’s not just women that the menopause affects, it’s everyone around them

as well,” she said.

Deborah Thomas, 57, a Health and Wellbeing Promotions Manager at Southeastern, was diagnosed as being in early menopause at the age of 38.

She explained that the company had adopted policies such as changes to uniforms and allowed flexible working patterns.

“Having an understanding employer and a workplace where menopause is openly discussed can make all the difference to how you’re able to cope with the symptoms.”

Henpicked CEO Deborah Garlick said Southeastern had succeeded in developing a policy for a very varied workforce.

“Southeastern had to find a strategy that would embrace all its staff, whether they are working at head office, in the depots, at the stations or on the trains.

“That is no small undertaking, but by shaping a bespoke policy and speaking to colleagues across all areas of the organisation, they were inclusive of everyone’s needs.”

For more information on Henpicked’s Menopause Friendly accreditation, visit: menopausefriendly.co.uk

New ‘fast’ rail line set to link Tunbridge Wells to Brighton

By Sharon Bruce

A NEW rail line with fast services operating between London and Brighton via Tunbridge Wells and Uckfield is set to be built.

Unveiling its Strategic Investment Plan, the regional authority, Transport for the South East (TfSE), has committed itself to delivering direct passenger rail services in the region.

Collaboration

TfSE said it had been working with industry partners to achieve this. The authority said: “In collaboration with Network Rail and the Local

Transport Authorities, a package of rail interventions has been developed that will enhance connectivity and reliability between London and the Sussex Coast.”

TfSE has assessed that the entire package for the London to Sussex Coast Rail, which includes work on the Brighton Line, as well as reinstating and electrifying the Wealden Line, will cost somewhere between £450m and £550m.

Network Rail has calculated that a reopened, double-track line south of Uckfield could support eight trains per hour each way (about one every 7-8 minutes in both directions).

A definitive timeline for the project has not been given.

DEBORAH THOMAS

Picture: Shutterstock

Joe Biden expected to make ‘peace’ speech today during his Northern Ireland visit

US President Joe Biden arrived in Northern Ireland aboard Air Force One last night, ahead of his four-day trip to the island of Ireland.

The visit coincides with the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998 – the deal that brought an end to the troubles that saw decades of violence and thousands of people killed.

The President will be greeted by the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Stormont politicians, and will give a keynote speech at the new Ulster University campus in Belfast.

In his address it is expected that he will state the United States’s willingness to preserve the gains from the Good Friday Agreement and how the US can support Northern Ireland’s economy.

Reconnect

Mr Biden will then leave Belfast today to attend events in County Mayo and County Louth, where he will reconnect with his family’s roots and visit Carlingford Castle.

After an overnight stay in Dublin, the US President will meet Irish President Michael D Higgins official residence Áras an Uachtaráin in Phoenix Park where Mr Biden will take part in a tree-planting ceremony and a ringing of the Peace Bell.

Mr Biden will travel for talks with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, whom he recently hosted at the White House on St Patrick’s Day and will address the Dail, becoming the fourth US president to do so – following John F Kennedy in 1963, Ronald Reagan in 1984 and Bill Clinton in 1995.

Finally, the president will attend a banquet dinner in his honour at Dublin Castle on Thursday and will conclude his visit on Friday with a public speech at St Muredach’s Cathedral in Ballina.

On Twitter, the 46th President said: “Twentyfive years ago, Northern Ireland's leaders chose peace.

“The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement ended

decades of violence and brought stability.

“I look forward to marking the anniversary in Belfast, underscoring the US commitment to preserving peace and encouraging prosperity.”

While the President calls for peace and prosperity, his visit comes at a time when peace in the country is at a low, requiring a major security operation on both sides of the border.

Recently the stability of the power-sharing government has collapsed following one of the biggest parties in Stormont, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), pulling out of the arrangement in protest of Brexit trading laws in Northern Ireland.

Two weeks ago, MI5 increased the terrorism threat level in Northern Ireland from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’ due to the rise in

activity by republicans.

On Monday, petrol bombs were thrown at a police vehicle at an illegal protest by republicans, but the violence was contained by the police a short time later.

A White House spokesperson said that the president was “very much looking forward to going to Belfast” and, despite recent security concerns, “is more than comfortable making this trip”.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4, former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair said the visit was significant, but that American influence on the Northern Ireland political process had to be used with “care and sensitivity”.

“There's a difference between influencing and pressurising and the one tends to be positive, and the other can be negative.”

Keir Starmer makes ‘no apologies’ after latest advert attacks on the Prime Minster

LABOUR has continued its controversial campaign against Rishi Sunak with an advert targeting his wife’s previous non-dom tax status.

Sir Keir Starmer told his shadow cabinet that he makes “no apologies at all” for the personal attacks, and that the focus will move this week from the Prime Minister’s record on crime to the cost of living.

The latest social media ad, featuring a picture of Mr Sunak in the same style as the earlier ones, says: “Do you think it’s right to raise taxes for working people when your family benefitted from a tax loophole? Rishi Sunak does.”

It says the Conservatives “have raised taxes 24

times since 2019” while refusing to “close the non-dom tax loophole” for foreign residents in the UK.

Mr Sunak’s wife, Akshata Murty, was revealed last year to hold the special tax status, reportedly saving her millions, but has since said she will pay UK taxes on all her worldwide income.

A Tory source hit back, calling the ad “the height of hypocrisy from a party which has already made £90billion of unfunded spending commitments and whose leader stands to benefit from a bespoke, tax-unregistered pension scheme unavailable to others.

“Rishi Sunak has a plan to halve inflation, grow

the economy and reduce debt. Sir Keir only has a plan to play politics on Twitter.”

The first ad in the campaign, which accused the Prime Minister of not wanting child sex abusers to go to prison, drew criticism from across the political spectrum and unease among the shadow cabinet.

Focus

Senior figures including former Home Secretary Lord David Blunkett called for it to be withdrawn, saying Labour is better than “gutter” politics.

But Sir Keir has refused to back down, urging his frontbenchers to “continue to focus relentlessly on exposing the failures” of the Tory Government in the run-up to May’s local elections.

“Rishi Sunak is the chief architect of choices prioritising the wealthiest and of the Government’s failure to get a grip of the economy and get growth going,” the Labour leader wrote in a letter to his colleagues.

He accused Mr Sunak of “supplying the touchpaper for another Conservative Government to blow up the economy” as chancellor and then continuing in No 10 to “make choices which loaded the costs on to working people”.

“The voters must know that Rishi Sunak’s fingerprints are all over their struggling household budgets.”

Further scheduled ads will include one suggesting Mr Sunak thinks it is right that the public is paying for the “Conservatives crashing the economy” through higher housing costs.

PREPARATIONS: President Biden arrived in Belfast yesterday

WALKABOUT: Keir Starmer visiting Scunthorpe earlier this month

Police return to search Nicola Bulley river

DIVERS have been seen back in the river where mother of two, Nicola Bulley, 45, vanished on January 27.

Police diving teams were in the water not far from a weir and downstream from a bench where police believe Ms Bulley went into the water in St Michael’s on Wyre, Lancashire.

Ms Bulley vanished whilst walking her dog along the River Wyre after dropping her daughters, aged six and nine, at school. Her disappearance sparked a huge search operation with intense media and public interest.

Ms Bulley’s body was found in the river around a mile farther downstream from the bench on February 19.

Lancashire Police said in a statement: “We can confirm we are carrying out some work on the direction of HM coroner.”

An inquest into Ms Bulley’s death is to be held on June 26.

Pentagon documents leaked to gaming site

TOP secret US intelligence documents – a number relating to the Ukraine war, have been leaked online via social media platform, Discord, associated with the gaming community.

Images of classified documents, dated around February to March 2023, have been circulating online containing information on how the US spied on key allies including South Korea, Israel, and Ukraine.

Some documents revealed how the US penetrated the Russian Ministry of Defence and intends to assist Ukraine in a spring offensive.

There is also intelligence between Russia’s FSB and agencies in the United Arab Emirates, which hosts a US air base and cooperates on security matters in Washington.

The March analysis says officers from the FSB were caught claiming that the UAE had agreed with Russia “to work together against US and UK intelligence agencies”.

Chris Meagher, top spokesman for the Pentagon, urged caution in “promoting or amplifying any of these documents”, adding that “it does appear that slides have been doctored”.

First female director of GCHQ appointed

ANNE KEAST-BUTLER will become the first woman boss of GCHQ in its more than 100-year history when the current director steps down next month.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly announced that Ms Keast-Butler will become head of the Government’s intelligence organisation when her predecessor Sir Jeremy Fleming leaves after six years in the role.

Ms Keast-Butler, currently MI5’s Deputy Director-General, will take up the role in May.

She said she is “delighted” to be appointed, adding that GCHQ’s mission is “as inspiring today as it was when it was founded”.

“I was privileged to work in GCHQ a few years ago, so I know I am again joining a world-class team of people from diverse backgrounds with a broad range of skills, who share a singular focus on making our country safer, more secure, and more prosperous,” she said.

“I am passionate about continuing to ensure that GCHQ is an organisation where everyone can perform to their very best.

“I am so grateful for the vision and dedication Sir Jeremy Fleming has shown during his tenure, and the ways in which GCHQ has transformed under his leadership.

“I look forward to building on this in the months and years to come. I can’t wait to get started.”

UK on track to be worst-performing G7 economy this year despite IMF upgrade

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecasted for the UK economy to grow slower than other Group of Seven (G7) countries this year and next.

Economists working for the body said the UK output is expected to reduce by 0.3% this year before a brief recovery growing by 1% next year.

Bottom

It puts the UK firmly at the bottom in the G7 group of advanced economies this year. The only other economy that the IMF expects to decline is Germany’s, which is expected to contract by 0.1%.

But it is better news than a previous IMF forecast, which predicted that the economy would shrink by 0.6% this year.

The group singled out the UK and parts of Europe as the places which will struggle over the coming years.

“Notably, emerging market and developing economies are already powering ahead in many cases, with growth rates (fourth quarter over fourth quarter) jumping from 2.8% in 2022 to 4.5% this year,” it said.

“The slowdown is concentrated in advanced economies, especially the euro area and the United Kingdom.”

CBI boss sacked after misconduct allegations

THE confederation of British Industry sacked its Chief Executive, Tony Danker and suspended three other employees yesterday after a series of misconduct allegations were made against them.

The board of the business group, which claims to represent 190,000 companies across the UK, said that Mr Danker’s conduct “fell short” of what was expected of him.

The group admitted there had been “serious failings” in how it acted as an organisation and promised to do better – the CBI also suspended three other unnamed members of staff.

Last week, the Guardian newspaper said that it had been approached by more than a dozen women who claimed to be victims of various forms of sexual misconduct, including one who said she was raped at a staff party.

Toxic

The trade union which claims to represent 190,000 businesses has be stunned by the allegations of the toxic workplace culture since Mr Danker was accused of allegedly making unwanted contact with female member of staff last month.

She considered the contact to be sexual harassment, the Guardian reported at the time. However, Mr Danker said that he is “shocked” that he was dismissed from the role “instead of being invited to put my position forward”.

He claimed allegations against him were “distorted” but added he recognised he “unintentionally made a number of colleagues feel uncomfortable”.

In a statement on Twitter, he said: “I recognise the intense publicity the CBI has suffered following the revelations of awful events that occurred before my time in office.

“I was appalled to learn about them for the

first time last week. I was nevertheless shocked to learn this morning that I had been dismissed from the CBI, instead of being invited to put my position forward as was originally confirmed.

“Many of the allegations against me have been distorted, but I recognise that I unintentionally made a number of colleagues feel uncomfortable and I am truly sorry about that.

“I want to wish my former CBI colleagues every success.”

Following the investigation by the group, the CBI said: “Tony Danker is dismissed with immediate effect following the independent investigation into specific complaints of workplace misconduct against him,” it said.

“The board wishes to make clear he is not the subject of any of the more recent allegations in The Guardian but has determined that his own conduct fell short of that expected of the director-general.”

“The allegations that have been made over recent weeks about the CBI have been devastating.

“While investigations continue into a number of these, it is already clear to all of us that there have been serious failings in how we have acted as an organisation. We must do better, and we must be better.

“We apologise to the victims of this organisational failure, including those impacted by the revulsion we have all felt at hearing their stories. Nobody should feel unsafe in their workplace.”

The board has now appointed former chief economist Rain Newton-Smith to take the top job from Mr Danker. She left the organisation just last month to join Barclays.

Following her appointment, Ms Newton-Smith said: “It’s a huge privilege to be asked to return to the CBI to serve as its Director-General.

Picture: Shutterstock

TONY DANKER

IT’S nearly a year since the coalition took overall control of our Council. They came into power with five promises for the residents of the Borough of Tunbridge Wells. With local elections approaching, I think it is fair to assess how they have performed. As Conservatives, we feel that residents deserve an open and transparent view of what the last year has delivered for them.

Safeguarding finances

The immediate post-election reaction from the coalition was to generate hysteria around a “black hole” in the Council’s finances.

The £1million figure continually quoted by the coalition, was taken out of context from the 2022 budget. A prudent budget was made mid-pandemic and while preparing for a potential Omicron lockdown with the resulting fall in economic activity.

Thankfully, 2022 turned out to be a better year than expected and, as the Conservatives stated in July 2022, we saw much improved budget conditions. Higher than expected car park usage and business rates growth means we have another consecutive budget surplus of £350,000.

This is not the “budget black hole” claimed in Liberal Democrat and Labour election leaflets now being distributed to residents. This cannot be used as an excuse for their year of non-delivery.

Conservative Councillor, Park Ward

Vibrant and safer towns and villages

There has been an unexplained delay in the Town Hall co-working initiative, planned to utilise the empty 60% of the Town Hall resulting from digital transformation. This project should have been finalised in summer/ autumn 2022. It now looks unlikely to be finalised in 2023, with town and businesses missing out on the increased retail footfall this will drive.

The Conservatives developed a new Local Plan to protect our green spaces from speculative planning applications and provide strategic management of housing, sports and community facilities. The Local Plan has stalled under the coalition with a number of poor judgements made, such as proposing to reduce the number of lanes on the A21 roundabout that will result in an estimated 30 minute increase in queue times. Our towns will also not benefit from car parking fee hikes of up to 75%, chaotically

rushed through with no public consultation in the original proposal.

Carbon reduction

The main project has been improvements to the Weald Sports Centre to reduce the carbon footprint and energy costs of the centre. However, there has been delay in getting on with this and the money for it has been wrongly diverted from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. Money which should have gone to support

Borough rural businesses at a time when this support is most needed. No new carbon reduction initiatives have been announced by the coalition over their term running the council.

Affordable social and rental housing

There has been progress with participation in the Conservative government’s Local Authority Housing Fund programme. This will result in the purchase of a minimum of 15 homes in the Borough, for use by families fleeing conflict in Ukraine and Afghanistan.

Under the last year of Conservative control of the Council, 272 affordable homes were delivered. This has dropped to just seven under the coalition.

Digital access, transparency and local democracy

This has been extremely disappointing. The Conservatives introduced a digital platform to allow for wider consultation amongst residents. The coalition have indeed used the platform, but not listened to the results. Residents have stated that they do not want car parking fees to be increased or introduced as well as move to one local election every four years. Both consultation results were ignored.

Our overall view – lots of talk, no listening and no action. Something for residents to think about as we move towards our 2023 local election.

Victoria White is the Conservative Councillor for Park Ward and the Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group of Councillors on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or you can write to the Editor, Times of Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0TG

Thank you, your contributions have made a significant difference to our support of cats

I would like to send my personal thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have been supporting Cats Protection since 2018. During that time, funds raised by players have enabled us to help and care for around 10,000 cats and kittens in our adoption centres across England, Scotland and Wales, while they await their forever homes.

In addition, they have also helped us provide cat behaviour expertise to our cat care volunteers and staff and adopters; run our Paws to Listen grief support service to help bereaved cat owners; and speak up for cats to help create positive change for cat welfare via our advocacy work.

Thank you to all the players of People’s Postcode Lottery for your ongoing support. Together we create a better world for cats.

Just vote and stop the complaining I don’t want to be a complainer myself, but I am battling to understand the mood of the people of our town lately. We are generally regarded as affluent and we have a good standard of living overall, and yet all anyone ever does is complain and wallow in their misery. These statements are, of course, a generalisation.

Instead of enjoying our beautiful town, all people do is complain about the Council, the politicians, the parking, the refuse removal, the schools and the price of houses. There are even those who spend their time filming others on their mobile phones and posting their misdemeanours online.

I agree that none of these issues are great and that they need to be dealt with, but why do we feel so entitled that we constantly feel the need to police our brothers? This is what our local elections are for.

Know the issues, know who you will vote for, and do your duty. It is as simple as that. There is no need to wind each other up and to throw dirt at each other. Surely we are better than that. Elections are there to serve a larger democratic function – and that is not to provide the opportunity for us to vent our anger at one another. We all have the same goals – a peaceful, prosperous co-existence.

R. Mann Tunbridge

Dear sir

Council, that there are “acute financial pressures”, something that has been mentioned for about 10 years, since central Government funding started to be reduced. It was these reductions that led the former Tory Cabinet to pursue the idea of Calverley Square as a “spend money to make money” scheme. If the Council does have much money, the lack of financial planning in the last year should be seen as less of a disaster (Mr Scott’s words), and more of an assessment of how to proceed in the future. Of course, if it has hardly any money, what a pity the Tories didn’t sort this out all the while they led the Council.

Carolyn Gray

Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

SCAM ALERT. More than once this column has warned about online scams. So, imagine how red-faced Calverley feels having fallen victim. They are SO clever! A message popped up on his laptop thanking him for arranging to pay “the vehicle tax by Direct Debit”. It had the details of his bank and car documents. Without thinking it through (it was post dinner/wine) he hit a response button. Big mistake. A quick online check (yes, he should have done that first) revealed it was a scam that introduced a ‘trojan horse’ that could wipe out bank balances. Calverley spent the next hour in conversation with his bank’s fraud team. Disaster averted. People should be on guard if they receive any messages from an email address that starts with the words: DIRECTDEBIT@TAXDISC.SERVICES.........

Anyone

anyone seeking advice on cat welfare, can find out more at: cats.org.uk

John May Chief Executive Cats Protection

with under 100,000 signatures, including this petition.

It might be helpful also to note this is being debated alongside another petition: https:// petition.parliament.uk/petitions/589716.

We are planning on doing more engagement on these two petitions closer to the time.

Charles White House of Commons

The issue of Council funds remains confusing

I am afraid that I read Mr Scott’s letter (March 29, 2023) and did not really understand what he was saying. As a lay person, “there will be a significant surplus created on the council’s solid spread on revenue earning” means nothing to me. I think he is saying that the Council has lots of money? Is he?

As a person who attends Town Forum meetings, we have been told several times at these, by staff from Tunbridge Wells Borough

PEPPY SAYS...

Wells

More debate to follow on petitions surrounding allergens in foods

Thank you for your article: Allergen petition by family of Crowborough boy to be debated in Parliament (March 29, 2023).

I thought it would be helpful to clarify the scheduling of this debate.

Petitions that receive over 100,000 signatures are automatically considered for debate by the Committee. In practice, almost all petitions that receive over 100,000 signatures are debated. The current and previous Petitions Committees have sometimes scheduled debates on e-petitions

Maintenance would make more allotments available Tunbridge Wells Mental Health Group could have more allotments for its initiative if TWBC fulfilled its legal duty to maintain those in its estate. Many behind Hilbert Road lie abandoned, overgrown and uncared for. Frustratingly for many would-be allotmenteers, the Council declares that none are available.

Edward

Baker

Tunbridge Wells

Is Southborough Town Council shopping around for better deals?

I was staggered to read Cllr Dianne Hill, Mayor of Southborough Town Council’s letter in your March 29 edition, stating that the Council’s insurance bill for the 23/24 year has increased from £24,000 to £84,000.

How can an increase of £60k be justified? Have Council members treated this proposed increase as if it were their own hard-earned money and shopped around for quotes from comparison and cash-back sites, like many of us do nowadays, rather than just accepting the huge hike?

If not, Southborough residents are being short-changed and deserve better!

Karen Bryant

Tunbridge Wells

PENSIONER PARKING PROTEST. Tory Minister Michael Gove is urging councils not to scrap traditional pay-and-display parking machines in favour of cashless options, such as mobile phone apps. Think Tunbridge Wells and in particular Royal Victoria Place shopping centre. Mike believes the elderly are being discriminated against and would be put off going to town centres. He’s now written to EVERY local authority. What a guy. Options in Victoria Place include using apps, a website or calling a number – if you have a mobile phone. Here’s a thought: Council elections take place next month. Grey voters should ask candidates where they stand on discrimination. That might prove interesting and help decide which box gets ticked.

BID BOSS. Congratulations to Alex Green on becoming the new CEO of the Business Improvement District (BID) under which businesses hand over an annual levy (hundreds of pounds) to help promote Tunbridge Wells. Maybe Alex could start by looking at parking payments. The former Trinity Theatre boss was a member of the BID Board that voted to sack the last CEO. He stepped in as interim CEO – an appointment now confirmed. Interesting.

NAKED TRUTH. The Rat Catcher (also known as a Pest Control Operative) popped round to Calverley’s abode last week (they really do get everywhere, the rats, not the catcher). Chatting to him, the question arose as to what he did when visiting places infested with fleas and bugs: “I wear a special suit.” But surely the blighters get everywhere? “That’s why my wife makes me stand in the back garden and strip off naked before going inside and putting clothes in the washing machine.” That’s sounds a bit risky? “It is. The neighbours’ outside light once came on and they all peered over the fence, laughing”. Calverley has been bothered by the image ever since.

THE TAKEAWAY. Recently Calverley told of the shopper who loaded meat into a bag and waltzed out without paying. This very week there was another incident at one of those awful self-service check-outs. A chap marched up with a bottle of scotch, ran the barcode over the reader and then pretended to swipe his card. He was out of the door before staff realised he had not paid. The nerve.

wishing to adopt a cat or support Cats Protection, or

How much of a role does artificial intelligence play in our schools?

The education sector in the United Kingdom has seen tremendous growth and change over the years, but the introduction of AI software into the sector poses both risks and opportunities. AI software has the potential to revolutionise the way education is delivered, making it more accessible and personalised. However, there are also concerns about the impact of AI on the quality of education, teacher jobs and the privacy of students.

Strengths

One of the most significant opportunities presented by AI software in education is its ability to personalise learning for students. AI-powered learning platforms can analyse student data to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. Based on this information, the software can adapt the curriculum to fit the needs of each student. This individualised approach can lead to more effective learning, as students can progress at their own pace and in their own style. It also offers teachers the ability to better identify student needs, which can help them to create targeted lesson plans.

AI software can also help address some of the long-standing challenges facing the education sector, such as access and affordability. Online learning platforms powered by AI can provide students with access to education in remote locations and at a lower cost. This can be particularly valuable for students who may not have the resources to attend traditional schools. Additionally, AI can be used to

create more efficient processes for delivering education. For example, automated grading systems can free-up teachers’ time to focus on other aspects of the curriculum.

However, the use of AI in education also poses some risks. One of the primary

The use of AI in education poses

risks. One of the primary concerns is the impact of AI on teacher jobs

concerns is the impact of AI on teacher jobs. As AI software becomes more advanced, it may be able to perform tasks that are currently performed by teachers, such as grading and providing feedback. This could lead to a reduction in the number of teaching jobs, which could have a significant impact on the education sector and the wider economy. It is important to note, however, that while AI can perform certain tasks, it cannot replace the value of a human teacher who can provide emotional support, guidance, and motivation to students.

Another risk associated with AI in education is the potential for breaches of privacy. AI-powered learning platforms collect and analyse large amounts of data on students, including personal information and learning data. This data could be vulnerable to hackers, who could use it for malicious purposes. It is

important for schools and educational institutions to ensure that they have robust data protection policies in place to safeguard student privacy. Finally, there are concerns about the impact of AI on the quality of education. While AI-powered learning platforms have the potential to personalise learning and make it more efficient, there is a risk that they may not be able to provide the same level of quality as a human teacher. For example, AI may not be able to provide the same level of emotional support or inspiration that a teacher can.

Additionally, there is a risk that AI may perpetuate biases or reinforce stereotypes, particularly if the data used to train the software is not diverse.

In conclusion, the introduction of AI software into the education sector in the UK presents both opportunities and risks. AI has the potential to revolutionise the way education is delivered, making it more accessible, efficient, and personalised. However, there are concerns about the impact of AI on teacher jobs, student privacy, and the quality of education.

It is essential for schools and educational institutions to carefully consider the risks and opportunities associated with AI and to implement robust policies and procedures to ensure that the benefits of AI can be maximised while minimising the risks.

Ultimately, AI should be seen as a tool to enhance and augment the role of teachers, not to replace them.

FULL DISCLOSURE

This comment piece was entirely written by ChatGTP in response to Samantha’s request which read: “Write a 500-word comment piece on the risks and opportunities to the education sector in the UK by ChatGTP and other AI software”. While it’s not perfect, it missed the word count (it’s 639 words) and overlooked a key concern (that as schools adapt and adjust to the opportunities presented by AI, they are having to establish policies to manage the potential for plagiarism, particularly in non-examined coursework). Otherwise, this article shows how powerful – and perhaps worrying – AI software is becoming.

We’d love to know your thoughts on the use of AI in the classroom. Feel free to drop us a line at the usual Times of Tunbridge Wells address…

Following the news that Italy has banned it, Benenden Head Samantha Price asks how worried should teachers be about ChatGTP? Read her opinion piece to the end, and then ask yourself the question again…

SAMANTHA PRICE

Picture: Shutterstock

Life &Times

Culture

Travel

Penshurst unveils a taste of its history

Penshurst Place recently opened its new Victorian Kitchen, which has been restored to its former 19th-century glory. Eileen Leahy discovers the story behind this extensive renovation, which is now open to the public for the first time…

At the end of last month, Penshurst Place unveiled the most extensive restoration the historic house has undergone since it first opened to the public in 1947. The exclusive event was attended by Penshurst Place’s heir, Dr The Hon Philip Sidney, his wife Lady De L’Isle and the estate’s Head of House Visits and Collections, Nicky Stitchman.

As of last weekend, visitors are able to step back in time to experience history in a different way, courtesy of the estate’s new Victorian Kitchen exhibition, which reveals a part of the house, and indeed many family antiques that, for many years, have been kept hidden behind closed doors.

Authentic

Boasting more than 125 pieces of antique copperware and cooking equipment, an assortment of original Victorian furniture, and authentic recipes from a bygone era, the new heritage attraction is already proving to be a popular addition for visitors to this beautiful stately home. It is also the first new permanent room to be introduced to the public in recent years, therefore making it a particularly exciting addition to the property that has also been a popular film and TV location.

The BBC’s adaptation of Wolf Hall, with Mark Rylance was shot here, as was Mary Queen of Scots, which starred Margot Robbie and Saoirse Ronan, as well as The Other Boleyn Girl with Scarlett Johansson.

Located in the 15th-century Buckingham Building, the kitchen – with its high ceilings and flagstone floor – was used as the main cooking space for Penshurst Place from the 1800s through to 1950. Now carefully restored, along with an adjoining larder and scullery, it provides a snapshot in time of how a traditional kitchen

in a large, private house would have been used – a sort of Downton Abbey for our local area if you will…

Yet bringing things sharply into the 21st century, is a series of eye-catching interpretation panels placed around the room.

“The idea is to offer a small, yet significant insight into the different roles the various household staff played on this country estate,” a Penshurst Place spokesperson told the Times “What’s really exciting is that the new heritage kitchen boasts one of the largest private collections of copper pots, pans and much more. From the tiniest beehive-shaped jelly moulds to huge warming pans that would have been put inside carriages to keep them – and passengers

The new attraction at Penshurst Place provides a snapshot of how a traditional kitchen in a large private house would have been used. It’s a sort of Downton Abbey for our local area

warm – there’s also an impressive selection of antique china and earthenware.”

They add that many of these carry the insignia of the Sidney family, who have owned Penshurst Place since 1552. “Other pieces prove the family’s close connections with royalty, as they carry the Crown King George IV’s monogram,” the spokesperson states.

Helping to further set the scene is a vast Victorian table placed in the centre of the room, which will be laid out as if ready for cake making. In addition to this is a cook’s desk,

BAKING EXHIBIT

complete with menus, cookbooks and shopping lists, which provide insight into the types of ingredients that would have been traditionally bought, along with the details of specific meals that would have been prepared within this kitchen in times gone by.

Dr The Hon Philip Sidney said: “It’s wonderful to be returning the old kitchen to its original purpose, and to be able to share the house’s history of food and cooking.

“Penshurst Place has a long-standing tradition of entertainment and hospitality, from hosting Henry VIII for a banquet in 1519 to being an award-winning wedding venue today, and it is great that we can open the kitchen up to show

how everyone would have been kept fed and watered in the 19th century. The range of pots, pans and utensils is awe-inspiring – I’m glad to

say that things are a lot less complicated when the family cooks nowadays!”

And the good news is there will be plenty for all the family to enjoy, including activities for children, which include uncovering concealed facts and unfamiliar recipes, creating and sharing their own menu ideas, and sniffing out a selection of herbs and spices to spot which one is which.

Nicky Stitchman added: “Restoring the old kitchen has been hugely exciting, particularly as most of the exhibits showcased are original items that would have been in use in the house

during the Victorian era.

“We are lucky to have so many objects to display, including some incredible cake and jelly moulds. We hope the interactive elements will spark lots of conversations between the different generations of visitors who come to Penshurst every year.”

Penshurst Place and Gardens is open to the public every day until October 29 this year, with access to The Kitchen at Penshurst exhibition included in the admission price to the house. For further information and to book tickets visit: penshurstplace.com

What’s really exciting is that the new Victorian heritage kitchen boasts one of the largest private collections of copper pots, pans and a selection of antique china and earthenware

HISTORY MAKERS: (Left to right) Nicky Stitchman, Viscountess De L’Isle, Dr The Hon Philip Sidney

THE STOVE AND WARMING OVENS

Fantastic Northern Ireland is the location for your blockbuster adventure holiday

By Sarah Marshall, PA

BLESSED with enchanting forests and dramatic coastlines, Northern Ireland has provided a backdrop for countless glossy films and fantasy TV shows. The latest big-screen epic to make the most of the superb scenery is Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, which has just been released in cinemas.

Based on the cult role-playing game, first launched in 1974, it’s an action-packed story of a quest to retrieve a lost relic, encountering a host of terrifying creatures along the way.

Starring Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez and Hugh Grant, much of the filming took place in Northern Ireland at Titanic Studios and locations close to Belfast.

“There are a lot of places that look very ancient, medieval – and that works great for us, and then there’s the natural beauty that’s so striking,” says director Jonathan Goldstein.

“Being in Belfast gave us the opportunity to feature incredible locations that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. There’s a combination of natural beauty and exotic places that makes it feel like you’re in this other world and other time, which is what the movie is.”

Eager to have an Irish Dungeons & Dragons adventure of your own? Here’s where to go…

Ballintoy and the Causeway Coast

One of the film’s most exciting sequences features a cat and mouse chase through a series of vaults and tunnels (known as the Underdark) in search of the Helm of Disjunction.

“You’ve got a dragon that is about 120-foot long, slightly overweight, chasing a nimbler group of heroes. He’s causing mayhem and

chaos as he’s crashing through aqueducts and viaducts, and the characters are just a couple of inches ahead of the snapping jaws,” says Production Designer Ray Chan.

The inspiration for the subterranean setting was a combination of China’s 270-million-yearold Shilin Stone Forest in Kunming and the Unesco World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, where 40,000 black basalt columns rise from the sea.

A 15-minute drive away is Ballintoy Beach,

where a group of rocky islands immediately offshore create a ‘raised beach’. Recognisable from Game of Thrones, it also features in the new D&D film.

How: Tickets for the National Trust’s Giant’s Causeway experience cost £13.50 adults, £6.75 children.

Carrickfergus Castle

One of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, this fortified Norman castle on the

northern shore of Belfast Lough has been in constant use since it was built in the 12th century. Surrounded by water, it survived multiple attacks throughout the centuries thanks to its polygonal curtain wall – extended in 1217 when King John’s soldiers managed to scale the eastern side at low tide. Used as a prison during the Napoleonic Wars, it later became a garrison in WW1 and an air-raid shelter in the Second World War.

THE GIANT'S CAUSEWAY

Located in Carrickfergus, a town that’s featured in numerous nostalgic folk songs by artists ranging from Jim McCann to Ed Sheeran, the historic building is open for guided tours. Look out for the ‘murder hole’, where soldiers would pour boiling water on intruders, and use an app to watch 3D animations of key artefacts, including cannons firing out to sea.

How: Adults £5.50, children £3.50.

Tollymore Forest

An avenue of Deodar cedars greets visitors to this enchanting forest, where ash, oak and beech trees rise like grand columns. A favourite with film and TV directors, it’s already appeared in Game of Thrones.

Located at Bryansford, near Newcastle, at the foot of the Mourne mountains, it was listed as the first state forest park in Northern Ireland in 1955. Once owned by the Hamilton family, it features multiple follies such as a barn designed

to resemble a church, while several bridges, grottos and caves can be found along the Shimna River, which runs through the park. Follow signposted trails to discover the forest’s natural beauty along with some introduced species such as monkey puzzles, giant redwoods and Monterey pines. Red squirrels, fallow deer, pine martens and kingfishers can also be spotted. For a challenge, try the Mountain and Drinns trail, passing through conifer woodland and rising to the Curraghard viewpoint for a panorama of the view of the Northern Mournes. How: £5 per car. Camping pitches from £21 per night.

Clandeboye Estate

Built by their ancestors in the 1600s, the Dufferin and Ava families still own this grand estate on the outskirts of Bangor. Within the 2,000 acres are private gardens, a chapel and the largest area of broadleaved

Family Days Out

woodland in Northern Ireland.

The property forms part of the Columban Way, a 32-km heritage trail between Comber and Bangor passing through Bronze Age relics, monastic settlements and sites where Viking battles took place.

In 1914, shortly after the outbreak of the First World War, Clandeboye Estate was transformed into a training camp for the 36th (Ulster) division. Sleeping in timber-framed huts, new recruits would learn how to fire rifles and bayonets. Deployed to France in 1915, many died in the Battle of the Somme; the Ulster Tower memorial built in Thiepval is a replica of Helen’s Tower within Clandeboye Estate. How: Although access to the estate is limited, it is possible to call ahead and arrange a private tour. Visit clandeboye.co.uk.

Glenarm Castle

This 17th-century castle on the Causeway Coastal Route is set on a hilltop with glorious views of the ocean. The ancestral seat of the McDonnell family, Earls of Antrim, since it was

built in 1636, it’s featured in multiple Hollywood films and – yet again – Game of Thrones. Now it’s D&D’s turn to transform the grand surroundings into an other-worldly fantasy land.

Along with exploring the Walled Garden, activities for families include an off-road driving adventure for kids at the Mini Land Rover Experience, or a two-wheeled exploration of the grounds on e-bikes.

Stop by at the Milk Parlour for home-made ice cream, sip a cuppa in a woodland setting at The Potting Shed (where environmentally aware staff compost coffee granules) or grab a wood-fired sourdough pizza at The Pavilion. Several shops are dotted around the grounds, including the Shambles Workshop, selling upscaled pieces of vintage furniture.

Stay overnight in an Ocean View Pod, a cast-iron container with a luxurious en-suite interior. Wood-fired hot tubs and wifi connectivity are included. From £120 per night (sleeps four).

How: Various prices apply. For details, visit glenarmcastle.com.

TOLLYMORE FOREST

CARRICKFERGUS CASTLE

A feast of magic suitable for the whole family…

Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves brings a great cast together, offers plenty of laughs

has a solid storyline, writes

Matthew Dann

When I first saw the trailer for this film, I have to admit to being very intrigued. I know there have been past D&D movies that had not been very good. This film, however, is completely different. First off, the cast are fantastic! Chris Pine, Hugh Grant and Michelle Rodriguez are particularly good in their roles. Other talented actors join the line-up. Sophia Lillis plays her role exceptionally well, as does Regé-Jean Page.

Exceptional

The latter I’m sure people will recognise from his role in Bridgerton. Then there is the story, or should I say, stories. Two plotlines run parallel in this film – both of which are very well worked. The antagonist of the film is also exceptional, lurking in the background, waiting for their time to strike.

If, however, you are expecting non-stop action in this film, you could be left disappointed. Indeed, there is action, but this mingles with plenty of drama and comedy, too.

The main characters interconnect well and bounce of each other with a natural ease. There are laughs aplenty and unlike some films, the humour does not feel forced or exaggerated. Everything somehow feels very natural.

The action is well-crafted and of course, there is plenty of CGI that makes it quite spectacular. This, however, did not hinder or detract from the film, and it is obvious that attention was paid to the details.

I found this to be a very well-rounded film that contained just the right amount of each element to offer satisfying viewing.

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

For me, this is one the finest fantasy films made in a very long time. It captures the imagination – and that is what cinema should be all about. I would happily watch it again. I believe that viewers of all ages would certainly enjoy watching it.

I saw this film at the Odeon Tunbridge Wells, where various times are available.

The UK’s number one outdoor cinema, The Luna Cinema. returns for another summer season at exquisite venues in Kent, including Tonbridge Castle and Leeds Castle.

It’s the perfect way to watch your favourite films at some of the beautiful locations in Kent this spring.

Films on show this year include the actionpacked Top Gun: Maverick and Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling Elvis, as well as fan favourites Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, Pretty Woman, Mamma Mia!, and The Greatest Showman sing-a-long.

With impressive on-site options for food and drink, including The Luna Cinema bar, with its new for 2023 sponsor, Malfy Gin, The Luna Cinema allows guests to bring their own picnic – perfect for alfresco feasting with friends or date night delights.

Two types of tickets are available for each screening, which means attendees can opt for a premium director seat (limited availability) or bring their own blanket and seats for easy, comfortable lounging. Further information about this season’s events, along with ticket booking is available at: thelunacinema.com/cinema

and

The action is well-crafted, and of course, there is plenty of CGI that makes it quite spectacular. This, however, did not hinder or detract from the film

Brilliantly British: Celebrate the King’s Coronation in Royal Tunbridge Wells

There’s no place more fitting to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III than our Royal town of Tunbridge Wells, where award-winning hotel One Warwick Park and landmark heritage venue Salomons Estate will be hosting a series of events to toast His Majesty The King. While celebrations at Buckingham Palace take place from May 6, when the new monarch will be crowned at Westminster Abbey, the two establishments that belong to the Elite Leisure Collection group of companies are extending the festivities and will commence their royal-themed affairs on May 1 until the extra bank holiday on May 8.

Treats

Salomons Estate, found in the heart of Tunbridge Wells countryside will be celebrating with afternoon tea parties, where families can enjoy beautifully presented and quintessentially British treats, inspired by the King’s favourite dishes and those served at his very own wedding.

While sitting overlooking far-reaching views of the 36-acre grounds, guests can sip on Pimm’s and indulge in sweet and savoury delights, like pheasant, bacon and sausage roll, lemon posset and strawberry and cream layered sponge.

There will be a menu for both adults (£28.50) and children (£18.50), who will also be able to enjoy biscuit decorating and crown crafts before heading out on to the lawn for a game of croquet and a royal treasure hunt.

Bookings can be made for Sunday 7 and Monday 8 on OpenTable.

If you can’t make those dates, sister venue One Warwick Park will be putting on a week’s worth of royal activities, including a live screening of the historic event on May 6.

A Feast Fit for a King

Monday 1 to Monday 8 May

Enjoy a unique dining experience fit for a king at The Brasserie – One Warwick Park Hotel’s delicious restaurant. Sample Head Chef Ollie Funnell’s limited-edition menu of royally themed dishes which have been crafted using locally-sourced produce.

Bookings can be made on OpenTable

Coronation Cocktails

Monday 1 to Monday 8 May

Head to One Warwick Park’s bar for a royal-

themed cocktail list, specially designed to honour King Charles III. Sample a host of flavourful creations at £12 each surrounded by colourful, art-deco interiors.

Champagne Afternoon Tea

Thursday 4 to Monday 8 May

Handcrafted by the hotel’s culinary team, kick off the long weekend over afternoon tea that has been given a royal twist. Served in the striking glass atrium, expect an irresistible assortment of quintessentially British treats including delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and homemade cakes and pastries, perfectly accompanied by a glass of Champagne. Bookings can be made on OpenTable and cost £39.50pp

A Royal Escape

Thursday 4 to Monday 8 May

Treat the family to a royal escape and enjoy a coronation party hamper when booking two nights or more at The House or The Apartment at One Warwick Park. Both properties are dog friendly and have been refurbished with beautiful interiors and home comforts, allowing you to celebrate the regal weekend in style with complimentary Pimm’s and lemonade, flags, hats, balloons and more. Make your bookings at: OneWarwickPark. co.uk

Bunting and Bubbles

Thursday 4 to Monday 8 May

Prepare for a truly royal welcome where all guests staying at One Warwick Park over the coronation weekend will enjoy a free glass of bubbles. The hotel will also mark the momentous occasion with red, blue, and white bunting plus Union Jack flags. Bookings can be made at: OneWarwickPark.co.uk

Watch The Coronation Live

Saturday 6 May 11.00am – 4.00pm

Draped linen tables will be laced with sweet treats and savoury delights in the Function Room at One Warwick Park to mark the Coronation of King Charles III. Enjoy a series of afternoon tea treats with a regal twist and indulge like a royal whilst watching the coronation live on a 6ft x 4ft screen. Tickets cost £44.50pp and include a glass of Champagne. Bookings can be made on OpenTable

ROYAL TABLE: Afternoon tea at Salomons Estate

Hotel group offers saving grace with last-minute wedding sale

COUPLES hunting for the perfect last-minute wedding venue in Kent need look no further than Tunbridge Wells, where a 19th-century country house and luxury boutique hotel celebrate the big ‘I Do’ with mid-week discounts that could ending up saving couples thousands.

Brand new for 2023, Tunbridge Wells-based group Elite Leisure Collection, which owns One Warwick Park Hotel and Salomons Estate, as well as Bewl Water in Lamberhurst, has just announced an exciting and affordable wedding sale for couples wanting to tie the knot this year. Through this campaign, couples get to enjoy an all-inclusive summer BBQ package at Salomons Estate, which costs just £4,400. Located in Tunbridge Wells’ picturesque

countryside and boasting sweeping views through 36 acres of gardens, the Victorian manor house is an award-winning landmark heritage setting. Its summer package considers all the finer details to create a stress-free wedding. From welcome drinks to evening food, couples can forget costs per head, knowing everything has been cared for.

Dedicated

The package is available Monday to Wednesday throughout 2023 and is based on a minimum of 50 guests. It includes a dedicated wedding coordinator, room hire of one of four licensed ceremony rooms, and welcome drinks of Pimm’s, Prosecco or bottled Peroni. There will also be a delicious summer BBQ menu on offer, plus bacon rolls and fries for the evening, as well as table décor such as crockery, glassware, and linen.

“BBQ weddings have become more popular in recent years,” said Commercial Sales Manager Christie Timmins.

“The laidback nature of this theme is perfect for couples who would prefer a relaxed atmosphere, and the price is great for those on a budget, too.” To sweeten the deal, couples will even get to enjoy a complimentary overnight stay.

According to Hitched, the average cost of a UK wedding in 2022 came in at £18,400, which means Salomons Estate’s generous offer could save couples thousands without having to compromise on their dream destination.

Participating venue One Warwick Park, an award-winning luxury hotel a stone’s throw from The Pantiles, is also offering brides and grooms-to-be the day of their dreams for less money.

Instead of £1,650, the restored Grade-II listed hotel has almost halved the price of mid-week venue hire, and couples will have to pay just £795.

Hosting hundreds of receptions and ceremonies alike, celebrations take place in the 142sqm Function Room which, along with the main hotel, underwent extensive redevelopment in 2013.

Its vaulted double-height ceilings, 15-foot arched windows, exposed brickwork, and gleaming white walls provide the perfect blank canvas for style-forward weddings, allowing couples to tailor the space to their own unique preferences.

“From glam to vintage, boho to traditional, we can accommodate all styles and themes,” Christie explained.

“Our events team take a hands-on approach and work closely with our couples to bring their

vision to life,” she continued.

The Function Room can accommodate parties of up to 180 and benefits from a stunning adjoining bar area, which offers additional space for couples and their guests.

And thanks to its many impressive features, One Warwick Park offers numerous stunning photo opportunities, too. These include the glass atrium, a beautiful, art-deco-inspired lounge bar, and the charming backdrop of The Pantiles.

Its discount is available throughout 2023 on weddings taking place Monday to Thursday and sees couples pocket £855 off the usual price.

From start to finish, Elite Leisure Collection’s wedding specialists will ensure a stress-free stroll down the aisle.

To take advantage of the mid-week offers, engaged couples should email One Warwick Park Hotel at info@onewarwickpark.co.uk or Salomons Estate at leisuresales@salomonsestate.com.

ONE WARWICK PARK

SALOMONS ESTATE

Enjoy half-price soft play sessions at Bewl Water

THANKS to Bewl Water’s latest offering of halfprice soft play sessions, parents can keep their babies, tots and pre-schoolers entertained for just £2.50.

Located near Lamberhurst, in Wadhurst, just off the A21, the dog-friendly, 800-acre Bewl Water site is best known for being a popular attraction for families seeking healthy outdoor fun. But when the weather isn't up to scratch, the multilevel soft play centre is the perfect alternative for hours of fun.

Found next to the dog-friendly Waterfront Café, the soft play centre features two challenging levels of fun and games. The bright and colourful structure is crammed with interactivity, different play features and numerous routes up and down, allowing children to explore a safe and stimulating environment while learning and running free.

Bash past the biff bags, explore plenty of tunnels, and swing through the hanging snakes before attempting the balance bars and stepping stones. There are also two dual slides to enjoy, an activity ring for babies and a separate fun zone for toddlers.

Sessions last for one hour, giving parents plenty of time to grab a treat for themselves from the café, before the kids emerge, ready for some ice cream from Bewl Water’s new soft scoop parlour. Usually costing £5 for children aged 1 to 8, and free for parents and babies, sessions can now be enjoyed for half the price Monday to Friday until the end of April, but excludes

half-term and bank holidays.

Bookings can be made on the day, or in advance by visiting: bewlwater.co.uk

Open every day until 5pm, Bewl Water boasts 12 ½ miles of woodland walks and cycle paths, as well as many activities for the whole family, such as wildlife spotting, Ranger Bear’s spring trail, camping, laser tag and Aqua Park, which returns to the reservoir in two weeks’ time. With car parking only costing £7 for the whole day, let the little ones explore the outdoor adventure pirate ship to their hearts’ content.

Offering free entry, the adventure pirate ship

can be found by the waterfront. It features sweeping timber structures and slides constructed around the Bewl Galleon – a washedup pirate ship from the stormy seas. With views of the natural landscape surrounding the ship, the playground enhances learning by boosting balance, agility, memory, and concentration through communication and teamwork. There is also a smaller play area nearby, where children can enjoy the climbing frame and navigate their way up the tower before sliding back down. Other fun features include a rocking boat and a basket swing.

The bright and colourful structure is crammed with interactivity, different play features and numerous routes up and down

SOFT PLAY CENTRE

Step back in time to enjoy this historic establishment’s delicious new

The George & Dragon pub in Speldhurst has been

of the local community bought it three years ago.

Leahy experiences a taste of this centuries-old pub’s exciting food offering, courtesy of

Head Chef Andy Billings

The George & Dragon in Speldhurst has long been one of the area’s most popular pubs, thanks to its idyllic location, great selection of local ales and good food. Since it was bought by a group of Speldhurst locals, headed up by business entrepreneur Becky Moran and her partner, Ian, in 2019, it has gone from strength to strength, delivering customers a unique, quality drinking and dining experience.

The George & Dragon’s epicurean edge has been further improved by the establishment’s new chef, Andy Billings, who’s giving the pub’s menu a little more culinary magic

The former coaching inn’s front-of-house team is managed by experienced hospitality expert Richard Maher, whose aim is simple: to provide customers with a memorable visit – whether they’re just popping in for a pint or gathering together for a special family occasion. Its epicurean edge has now been further improved by the establishment’s new chef,

THE GEORGE & DRAGON, SPELDHURST

Andy Billings, who has come on board to give the pub’s menu just a little bit more culinary magic. He’s also been tasked with offering customers regular tasting nights, too.

On a recent Thursday night, when my husband and I paid the historic country pub a visit, it was very busy with tables in both the bar area and Buttery dining space full. We were warmly greeted by our friendly waiter for the evening and shown to our cosy corner table in the main bar area, where the fire was crackling away in the inglenook fireplace.

Talented

Once we’d been served our drinks and delivered a smorgasbord of nibbles – think hunks of fluffy, homemade focaccia and chilli and garlic infused almonds and olives, we got down to the business of scanning the menu.

At first glance it’s clear that Andy has been busy creating. Dishes like fillet of Cornish mackerel with bacon, oats and beetroot gel (£9), and Ashdown pheasant with haggis and pancetta, pheasant croquette and dirty carrot (£20) are certainly more gastro than pub grub. However, the talented chef is by no means alienating anyone, as you’ll still find classic staples, such as steak and kidney pie served with seasonal greens and mash (£17), beer battered fish and chips with mint purée (£16) and that G&D favourite, Speldhurst sausages served with creamed mash and gravy (£17).

After much deliberation, I plump for the chargrilled octopus for my starter, which comes on a bed of chickpeas with a gorgeous fresh tomato sauce swirled on top and gremolata

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(£9.50). With a dash of lime squeezed on, it’s a taste triumph: the octopus is silky and charred to perfection. Feeling peckish, my husband is tempted by the baked Camembert, which our waiter tells us is ideal for sharing and comes oozing with truffle honey, roasted garlic and croutons (£13.50). Momentarily mesmerised by this image, he eventually goes for the Mediterranean fish soup (£9), which is served with a traditional rouille mayo, a selection of homemade salt and cracked black pepper toasts, croutons and a sprinkling of Gruyère cheese. It is

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smooth, rich and perfectly executed, but incredibly filling. This would make a perfect lunch choice after a walk through the surrounding Speldhurst countryside but tonight my husband falls short of finishing it as he’s looking forward to savouring his main course: a plant based mushroom Wellington (£15) with Lyonnaise potato and seasonal veg. The accompanying jus gravy brings all these rich, earthy flavours together, resulting in a perfect meat-free dish of exceptional taste and quality.

Torn between the steak burger, which is a decadent confection featuring pulled pork and Kansas City sauce (£18), and the fish choice for the evening: salt cod, cuttlefish and ‘nduja stew (£19), I eventually choose the latter. Once again, the portion is generous and deeply flavoursome. The idea of pudding now ebbs further away. My husband is built of stronger stuff though and so chooses the chocolate mousse and hazelnut praline (£8.50). Although I was feeling stuffed, one look at it and I wasf unable to resist a bite. It tastes so good and just like something you’d enjoy in a French brasserie, with a little added crunch, thanks to the sprinkles of praline. Pleasantly salted, we finish our glasses of wine, mine a light and refreshing French Picpoul de Pinet (£7) from the Languedoc and my husband’s a citrusy Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough in New Zealand (£7.30). We live a few minutes’ drive from The George and Dragon, but even if we didn’t, I can say that it would definitely become my local.

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Dishes like fillet of Cornish mackerel with bacon, oats and beetroot gel, and Ashdown pheasant with haggis and pancetta, pheasant croquette and dirty carrot are certainly more gastro than pub grub

Cardboard box of ‘mum’s pots’ valued at just £30 achieves £100,000 at Hansons auction

Acardboard box of pots thought to be worth around £30 achieved £100,000 at auction, much to the seller’s amazement.

The 67-year-old retired computer engineer gathered some of the many plates and dishes displayed for decades in his late mother’s home and took them to Hansons Auctioneers, which has recently launched a saleroom in Tunbridge Wells. He consigned them to auction, expecting them to make around £30-£50. He said: “Later on I got a call from Hansons to say some of the Chinese ceramics in the box

were worth more. They planned to put them into a fine arts sale with estimates of £4,000-£6,000. I thought, brilliant!

“What happened next was unbelievable. I watched the auction on March 30 live online, and the prices

kept rocketing. My sister was watching in Australia and we were texting each other. We just couldn’t believe what was happening.”

Dishes

Despite chips, a set of four small dishes (lot 357) achieved £63,000 from a £4,000-£6,000 guide price. Three phone bidders battled against the internet. The total paid by a Chinese bidder, with buyer’s premium, was £81,900. They were 16th century Chinese Ming Dynasty wucai porcelain dragon and phoenix dishes and bore the six-character mark of the Wanli Emperor (1573-1620).

They were not the only items plucked from the

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cardboard box that would excel. Lot 358, an Imperial porcelain yellow ground medallion bowl, Daoguang (1821-1850) sold for £14,500. It had cracks but that didn’t deter four phone bidders who smashed its £1,500-£2,500 guide price.

Gift

Hot on its heels came lot 359, an Imperial porcelain, famille rose-pink ground medallion bowl, Daoguang (1821-1850). It achieved a hammer price of £8,800 against a £4,000£6,000 estimate. The total paid for the three Chinese lots, with buyer’s premium, was £112,190.

The seller, whose mother passed away earlier this year, said: “Mum had no idea they were valuable. They were a gift, a mark of gratitude from a chap she helped to look after years ago, a former Rolls Royce engineer. They must have been on display in her home for 30 or 40 years.”

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, which recently opened an office in Royal Tunbridge Wells, said: “It was an unbelievable find and tremendous result. It begs the question: ‘What’s in your cardboard box?’

“We are inviting entries for the inaugural Hansons’ Royal Tunbridge Wells Auction on May 23. If you’re considering selling do get in touch.”

Hansons RTW hosts free valuations at The Pantiles Arcade, 49 The Lower Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TE, on Fridays and Saturdays, 10am-3pm. No appointment necessary. To find out more, contact Hansons RTW manager Robin Fletcher: 01892 573540 or email: rfletcher@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk

CARDBOARD HOARD: The box where the ceramics were kept

TWIN TREASURES: Charles Hanson with two Chinese dragon dishes

Motoring News

Lambo Revuelto hybrid n Kia EV9 specs revealed n Yaris hits 10 million n

Lamborghini’s new 1,000bhp hybrid supercar

LAMBORGHINI has unveiled its new flagship supercar – the Revuelto.

It’s equipped with the Italian firm’s first plug-in hybrid V12 engine, which combines the 12-cylinder petrol engine with three electric motors that are coupled to a 3.8kWh battery. It can be charged either via a plug or directly from the engine, with the former taking around 30 minutes and the latter around six minutes to fully charge.

Distinctive

Combined, this set-up produces 1,000bhp and results in a 0-60mph time of under 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 217mph. It will also manage the zero to 124mph sprint in just seven seconds flat.

The exterior has distinctive Y-shape daytime running lights, while the V12 is celebrated by being fully exposed. Inside, there are many references to that exterior ‘Y’ design trait, while much of the cabin is centred around the driver. Lamborghini calls this its ‘space-ship’ design and it’s this which encloses the central air vents and 8.4-inch vertical touchscreen.

Plus, there’s a 9.1-inch display ahead of the passenger, which mirrors the

information relayed on the driver’s 12.3-inch digital cockpit. There’s also a clever ‘swipe’ function which means that the driver or passenger can ‘move’ applications from the central screen to their respective displays.

The steering wheel is also packed with functions, with buttons mounted on it to activate the indicators and lights. Four rotors change which driving mode is selected, and these can be tweaked without the need for the driver to take their hands away from the wheel.

Lamborghini says that the Revuelto is also more spacious than the outgoing Aventador Ultimae, with extra headroom and legroom. Plus, there’s extra room behind the seats which is able, according to Lamborghini, to accommodate items “up to the size of a golf bag”.

Carbon fibre is used across the dashboard, while there’s also a combination of leather and a special Corsa-Tex fabric made from recycled polyester via a water-based production process.

Lamborghini has yet to announce a price for the Revuelto, but expect it to far exceed the £365,000 required for the previous equivalent Aventador.

Kia announces new details about its flagship EV9 SUV

Toyota has produced its 10 millionth Yaris

KIA has announced a range of details about its new EV9, with the flagship electric car set to bring technology advancements and Kia’s largest battery yet.

Following its initial reveal, when many details were still under wraps, the South Korean firm has now confirmed further information about the model.

Using a specific electric car platform, the EV9 will be offered in a choice of rear- and all-wheel-drive, with two battery and motor options available.

The entry-level model will use a 76kWh battery paired to a single electric motor producing 201bhp. A ‘Long Range’ version is also available, using a 100kWh battery that is the largest to ever be fitted to a Kia, with this unlocking the EV9’s maximum range. Kia claims an “estimated target range of over 541km (336 miles)”.

All-wheel-drive versions of the EV9 use two electric motors that develop 380bhp. Kia also says an optional Boost feature will be available in the future, allowing this 5m-long SUV to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 5.1 seconds. This ‘Boost’ function can be added through

the ‘Kia Connect Store’ after the car has been purchased.

The EV9 is also equipped with an 800-volt charging system, which is said to allow 148 miles of range to be added in just 15 minutes when it’s hooked up to rapid charger.

Autonomous

In addition to the standard car, Kia has now revealed a GT-Line model, giving the SUV a sportier appearance thanks to new front and rear bumpers, further gloss black styling and a unique ‘Digital Patter Lighting Grille’.

The EV9 will be available with six or seven seats, with the second row able to swivel so that rear passengers can face each other.

Kia is also bolstering the driver assistance features of the EV9, including a new ‘Highway Driving Pilot’ that will offer Level 3 autonomous driving features, which is a further step closer to ‘hands-off’ driving.

The EV9 will go on sale in Kia’s home market of South Korea in the next few months and is expected to arrive in the UK before the end of the year.

TOYOTA has now produced its 10 millionth Yaris worldwide, joining several other models from the brand that have reached and surpassed the milestone figure.

First introduced in 1999, the Toyota Yaris is now in its fourth generation and is produced at sites all over the world in 10 different countries, including Japan, Brazil and China. The model is also called the ‘Vitz’ in other overseas markets.

including sales of the recently-introduced Yaris Cross and sporty GR Yaris.

The Yaris joins several other Toyota models that have accumulated eight-figure production figures, including the Corolla (the most popular car ever), Camry, RAV4, Hilux and Land Cruiser.

Toyota began devising the Yaris in the late 1990s as a replacement for the ageing Starlet, with the Japanese firm ensuring this was a model with global appeal, though much of its design work took place in Europe.

In more recent years the Yaris has become renowned for its hybrid engines, by becoming the first car in its class to feature such a powertrain in 2012. Since 2020, with the launch of the latest version, it has only been sold as a hybrid model.

Since 2001, European Yaris models have been produced at Valenciennes in northern France, while in 2021 the European footprint was expanded with a plant in Kolin in the Czech Republic. More than 4.6 million Yaris models have been manufactured in Europe, too, with a third of all Toyota models sold in the continent in 2021 being a Yaris.

The 10 millionth example – a Yaris GR Sport –was produced at Toyota’s factory in France.

The Yaris has been a popular choice in the UK, with more than 715,845 sold here to date,

Matt Harrison, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, said: “The Yaris has been synonymous with Toyota’s growth in Europe, becoming our best-selling and most produced vehicle in the region. It has also redefined our brand accessibility and awareness.

“The Yaris family has expanded, following the Yaris Cross’s introduction in September 2021, together with GR Yaris, a thoroughbred car born from our WRC success. The Yaris story isn’t over yet and I’m looking forward to seeing the exciting role it will play in the future.”

The Yaris has been a popular choice in the UK, with more than 715,845 sold here to date

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