TUNBRIDGE Wells fell silent on Monday as Her Majesty The Queen was finally laid to rest.
ventured into town on Monday morning as the streets remained quiet.
Buses were running but few people had
THE MEAD SCHOOL TUNBRIDGEROYALWELLS TUESOPENDAY4OCT PLEASE BOOK A SLOT BETWEEN 9.30 - 12 NOON Continued on page 2 28-PAGEINSIDE PULLOUTPROPERTY
loved
Banks and official buildings, including The Amelia, were closed, as normal for a bank holiday, but unusually, shops and restaurants were also shut, as were Trinity Theatre and the Assembly Hall.
Vicar The Rev. Judi Hammill said the church had decided to open to allow people to come in and spend the service together.“Wewere open anyway – we are open every day,” she said. The congregation also gathered
DESERTED
Residents from Tunbridge Wells were among the estimated 250,000 people who queued to see The Queen lying in state over the last few days.
Quiet
The streets of the Royal Town were deserted as the clock struck 11am – the time when The Queen’s State funeral began.
It is with deep sadness we
Tunbridge Wells town centre remained empty and silent as the Queen’s funeral took place have learned of Her Elizabeth II’s passing. her ones this difficult time, but also with all of those who cherished and adored Her Majesty The Queen.
Majesty Queen
Royal Town falls silent as nation says goodbye to Queen Elizabeth
By Victoria Roberts and Madeleine Anderson
Our thoughts are with
Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Times OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS All the news that matters Local, National and International
People braved a 12-hour wait on the banks of the Thames to catch a glimpse of the Queen’s coffin as she lay in state in Westminster Hall ahead of her funeral on Monday.Among the mourners was Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes.
At St James’ Church in Ferndale, the bell was tolling to draw people in to the building where three screens had been set up to stream the royal funeral.
afterwards, as with a normal funeral, to share memories. The church has also opened a book of memories.
‘Banks and official buildings were closed as well as shops and theatres’
Funeral
during
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:2 NEWS Local News Wednesday September 21 | 2022
everyone who took part in or supported Hospice Run, including our wonderful volunteers and sponsors.“Everypenny raised helps Hospice in the Weald to provide care and support to local people facing terminal illness and their families. Fundraising support is more important than ever particularly as, for the first time, we are preparing to extend the Hospice’s care to children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.”
Tunbridge Wells falls silent as funeral takes place
Damaging
By Richard Williams
That six-week consultation, which ended on September 5, saw more than 920 people taking part.The Times can reveal that 80 per cent of respondents – around 736 people – told the Council they opposed the scrapping of free parking at the two car parks.
Greg Clark urged the ruling Borough Partnership, which is made up of Lib Dem, Alliance and Labour councillors, to drop the plans, arguing they would be ‘damaging’ for businesses.Businessleaders in the two towns also slammed the proposals.
promoteThousandsthis.”of signatures were collected in online petitions and protests took place in the towns, forcing the Cabinet to delay the implementation of the plans, which were scheduled to begin on October 1, so it could hold a public consultation.
The Borough Partnership has already U-turned over the decision to scrap free parking at Dunorlan Park.
The Cabinet meeting, which coincidently was meant to take place in Paddock Wood, has been relocated to the Town Hall in Tunbridge Wells, after the Council said no suitable venue could be found.TheCabinet meeting is due to begin at 6.30pm.
As part of the coalition’s deficit reduction plan, free parking for the first hour in the Councilowned car park in Paddock Wood and the first two hours in Yew Tree car park in Southborough was set to be scrapped in favour of a 50 pence per hour charge.
students from Uplands Academy where Matt taught.JesseAnsbro-Brett, Fundraising Manager at Hospice in the Weald, said: “We’d like to thank
the scrapping of free parking is set to be decided tomorrow.TheCabinet, led by Lib Dem Cllr Ben Chapelard, will have to choose whether to implement the plans from the new date on December 1, or scrap the proposals altogether.
RUNNING FOR CHARITY Competitors during the run
Gina Carver, 60, from Tunbridge Wells also queued last week.
Special
EDITOR RICHARD richard.williams@onemediauk.co.ukWILLIAMS | 01892 240626 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.ukLEAHY | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER VICTORIA newsdesk@onemediauk.co.uROBERTSk | 01892 779615 DESIGN/PRODUCTION JASON jason.stubbs@onemediauk.co.ukSTUBBS ADVERTISING 07557 robin.singer@onemediauk.co.uk847841 FIND US ONLINE twitter.com/timeslocalnewswww.timeslocalnews.co.ukfacebook.com/timeslocalnews CONTACTS One Media and Creative UK Limited is registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB. Salomons Estate, Broomhill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0TF PRINTED BY MORTONS PRINT LTD Media Centre, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincolnshire LN9 6JR CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times Local News we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections. If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor. this week… CHARITY CHAMP Local Paralympicssponsoredathleteinbid P12 BUILDING YOUR FUTURE Check out the Times ’ pull-out supplementproperty for advice, regulations and trends P19 WORKS IN PROGRESS A creative trio on their new arts hub in SouthboroughP52CRISIS MEASURES Local experts give their advice for cutting the cost of living P6 Continued from front page
"I have been watching the live feed and I was just“Peopleoverwhelmed.arefeeling this warmth, connecting
The decision on whether to still go ahead with
She told reporters: "In my head I was like 'I have to join this queue' so I stopped all my plans for this weekend and here I am," she said.
Harriers
She said: “To give up my day queuing is nothing compared to what she’s done for 70 years – and she does feel like our grandmother.
Council to decide fate of free parking after hundreds voice their opposition
MORE than 500 local people turned out to take part in the Hospice Run in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday (September 18), despite the period of nationalRunnersmourning.setofffrom the Lower Cricket Ground to complete the 5k or 10k circular routes on closed roads throughout the town, all to raise funds for Hospice in the Weald.
“There’s so many qualities about her," she told reporters from her spot on the South Bank. "Her values, how she’s conducted herself. She’s just given everything to the country.”
THE cross-party ‘Borough Partnership’ is to decide whether to abolish free parking in the towns of Paddock Wood and Southborough as the Council’s cabinet meets tomorrow (Thursday, September 22).
Richard Barsley, managing director of Barsley’s department store and chairman of the Paddock Wood Business Association (PWBA) told a previous Council committee he was ‘stunned’ by theHeproposals.said:“Customers lack the incentive for more considered shopping or just time for a coffee and a snack. Dwell time is crucial to many businesses in the town and the council has said it aims to
Runners put best foot forward for Hospice Run
with this moment, and for me yes it will be a sombre occasion [but] it makes me happy I am here in this queue," Dame Kelly added.
"I got my damehood from The Queen in 2005 for services to sport so that will always hold good"Butmemories.theoneswhich really stand out are the ones that are really informal – at races where I break protocol and say to The Queen 'you look lovely ma'am' and she says 'thank you Dame Kelly'."Those are the moments that stand out, her bright colours and the aura around her.
Members of Tunbridge Wells Harriers, Wadhurst Runners and Park Run participants ran in tribute to him, along with many former
“She was the face of reason, you always think things are going to be all right if she says it’s all right.”Meanwhile Carole Everett, who travelled on her own from Tunbridge Wells, described The Queen as ‘a very special lady’.
Many at the event ran in memory of popular local teacher and keen runner Matt Green, who was cared for at Hospice in the Weald’s Cottage Hospice before his death in August, aged 55.
With a host of fundraising events coming up, including the Paddock Wood Virtual Half Marathon, which offers the opportunity to choose your own route to walk or run 13.1 miles anytime this September, local residents are encouraged to visit the Hospice’s website at hospiceintheweald.org.uk to lend their support.
QUEUE Dame Kelly Holmes in London
The 52-year-old from Hildenborough said she felt compelled to come to London to pay her respects to Queen Elizabeth II.
But the proposals sparked anger in the two Tunbridge Wells towns since they were first proposed in CouncillorsJuly.and residents in Paddock Wood and Southborough, as well as the MP for Tunbridge Wells have all criticised the plans.
OPPOSITION The car park charges have sparked protests
“There will be many wood piles in the first instance, and I will be looking to create many habitat piles for insects, birds, frogs and toads etc,” Mr Colborne said.
Despite existing in the UK since the 1970s, the threat from Ash dieback has risen drastically sinceAccording2012. to the Woodland Trust, the disease
NEWS IN BRIEF
Tesco night deliveries
Garden centre crash
“Starting towards the end of September there will be tree surgeons working on trees along the Tarry Path in Rusthall and also on various ash trees across the Commons," he added.
By Madeleine Anderson
The Conservators of the Commons say ash trees on the 6.7-acre site have been hit with ‘ash dieback’ – a fungal infection that leaves the trees with blackened leaves and discoloured bark.Ranger
“Then during the autumn and winter there will be tree surgeons working along the Langton Road, Rusthall Road and along Tea Garden Lane.”TheRanger explained that he had been
CROWBOROUGH Town Council is set to meet to discuss reducing the speed limits throughout the town to 20mph.
But the two performances next Tuesday and Wednesday (September 27-28) both sold out within hours of tickets going on sale earlier this month.
Town’s 20mph limit
The Office and Extras star, who has recently enjoyed success with his Netflix show Afterlife, has recently been at loggerheads with comedian Stewart Lee.
Mr Lee, who was featured in the Times earlier this year after saying Tunbridge Wells embodied ‘both arrogance and ignorance’ said Mr Gervais’ hit show Afterlife was ‘one of the worst things that’s ever been made by a human’.
WHAT IS ASH DIEBACK?
Ricky Gervais responded by simply tweeting: “Watch the award-winning, record-breaking #AfterLife now streaming on Netflix around the world”.Itisexpected that Ricky Gervais’ new ‘Work in Progress’ show will be turned into another Netflix special with a release date of 2024.
Kent Police say they were called at 2.55am on Friday, September 16 to allegations a number of windows to premises in Tunbridge Wells had been deliberately smashed or damaged.Ataround 3am, attending officers arrested Jordon Bridges of Linden Fields, Tunbridge Wells.The21-year-old was later charged with three counts of criminal damage and a further charge of possessing cocaine. He was bailed to appear before Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on October 18.
need removing and will be looking to replace the trees where appropriate with other native trees and hopefully some resistant ash saplings in due course,” he added.
Proponents of the ‘20’s Plenty’ campaign argue that there would be fewer severe road casualties and fatalities, air quality would improve, and lower speed limits would encourage people to walk and cycle more frequently.
Daniel Colborne said that the infection on the Commons, which is an area of Special Scientific Interest and a Geological Conservation Review site, has been ‘severe and rapid, possibly due to additional stress caused by this year's drought’.
Bus decision delayed
The driver was taken to Tunbridge Wells Hospital where he was treated for minor injuries after the accident at the Blue Diamond Garden Centre in Eridge Road on Sunday, September 11.
Kent Police say the man has since been released ‘pending further investigation’.
Ricky Gervais’ last show Supernature was a huge commercial success. It is currently streaming on Netflix and is the channel’s most watched special.
• Avoid taking cuttings or plant material from the countryside
The postponed agenda also included a discussion of the cost of living crisis and KCC’s response, an update on schemes to help refugees from Syrian, Afghan and Ukraine, and Kent’s Plan Bee addressing the decline of pollinator species in the county.
Safety
Habitat
After the felling of the trees, the Ranger says the wood will not go to waste and will be repurposed on the Commons.
The disease has so far infected 15 trees, and the Ranger is hopeful he has stopped the spread, but the disease has the potential to wipe out all ash trees on the Tunbridge Wells beauty spot.
A MAN was arrested on suspicion of drinkdriving after his car crashed into a garden centre in Tunbridge Wells.
Its introduction to Europe about 30 years ago has devastated the European ash (Fraxinus excelsior), because native ash species did not evolve with the fungus and this means it has no natural defence against it.
“I must stress that it pains me very much to have to remove so many of these majestic trees from our landscape.
MORE than a dozen trees are to be felled on Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons after they were ravaged by disease.
“The additional light reaching the ground layer will also allow other species to grow with more vigour and so put out more fruits and blossoms. This will mean that we will see an increase in pollinators and birds in the coming years.
Man is charged after High Street vandalism
monitoring the trees across the Commons throughout the summer, saying that he believes a few trees were showing signs of resistance to the“Ifdisease.so,Iwill look to collect seeds from them in order to replant as much as I possibly can with the help of our wonderful volunteers,” he said.
“I will not be removing any trees that do not
is set to kill around 80 per cent of all UK ash trees, which will have a ‘devastating impact on the landscape and the biodiversity of our woodlands, as well as a major loss in connections between habitats as we lose hedges and individual trees outside of woods’. It advises visitors to areas affected with ash dieback to:
Ash dieback attacks leaves and produces spores, which are spread around the tree in the rain and wind causing more infections.
INFECTED An ash tree marked for felling and (right) Daniel Colborne
“I am looking for volunteers that might be interested in using apps to record the numbers of these species over time across the Commons, so if this is of interest to you, then please do get inThetouch.”Ranger can be found along roadsides near the Commons in a high-vis vest, or for those interested in offering their support please visit twcommons.org.
A proposal before the Environment Committee would call on East Sussex County Council to reduce all speed limits to 20mph within the town boundary, with the exception of the A26, which they wish to reduce from 40mph to 30mph within the town boundary.
A DECISION on Kent County Council’s (KCC) subsidies for around 48 bus services has been delayed until late October following the death of Her Majesty.
The ‘Work In Progress’ show sees Mr Gervais returning to the 1000-seater venue following his 'Supernature' tour last year.
Ash dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a fungus which originated in Asia.
Success
A 21-YEAR-OLD from Tunbridge Wells has been charged with criminal damage after a series of shop windows in the High Street were smashed last week.
“There is currently no cure for ash dieback, although some trees have shown resistance,” said Mr “Unfortunately,Colborne. for safety reasons we have to remove any ash trees that could present a safety risk, as infected limbs could fall onto paths.
• Clean shoes before and after visiting a wood
He also performed in Tunbridge Wells back in 2019 as part of a warm-up show for his Netflix special, ‘Humanity’, when he poked fun at the town, especially its use of the prefix ‘Royal’.
Ricky Gervais returns with two sell-out Assembly Hall shows
THE OFFICE star Ricky Gervais is to return to Tunbridge Wells next week for two stand-up shows – the third time the funnyman has appeared in the town.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Local News NEWS 3Wednesday September 21 | 2022
TESCO in Pembury has applied for permission to have night-deliveries at the store.Thesupermarket has made a request to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for overnight deliveries to be allowed ‘seven days a week’ for its Woodsgate Corner supermarket, which is not currently permitted to load and unload vehicles at the site before 6am or after 10pm from Mondays toTheSaturdays.company said: “These proposals will allow Tesco to deliver produce to the store earlier than at present and will allow staff to stock the store prior to opening.”
Trees to be felled as ash disease strikes Tunbridge Wells Common
KCC’s Cabinet had referred KCC Supported Bus Funding Review back to the full Council on September 15, which fell during the national period of mourning, and it is now understood the entire agenda will be transferred to the next full Council meeting at 10am on October 20.
By Richard Williams
• Wash your car or bike wheels to remove mud or plant matter
The Woodland Trust and other environmental groups objected to the destruction of 22 acres (8.9 hectares) of ancient woodland.
A six-week consultation is expected to open this week on the plans, but a spokesperson for TMBC said that just because sites have been included it did not mean development would necessarily go ahead.Hesaid: "Earlier this year, we invited developers and landowners to suggest areas which could form part of our Local Plan proposals through a 'Call For Sites' process.
PLEDGE
Also, a timber-framed barn from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, which stood in the path of the road, was taken apart and reconstructed at the Weald & Downland Museum in Chichester.
"It’s important to stress that just because a site has been suggested, it does not mean it will be included in the next phase of the plan, or be suitable for development," the spokesperson added."Each will be subject to a rigorous assessment against our development principles and against the feedback we get from an initial public consultation, which we now expect to open later thisOnlymonth.after this process has concluded will we know which sites are suitable and available for inclusion within the new Local Plan."
DEVELOPMENT
beenBeforepromised.theDecember 2019 election, Greg Clark MP pledged to push the dual carriageway onward from Pembury to Lamberhurst.
He was joined by his Conservative colleague, Roads Minister Baroness Vere of Norbiton during his election campaign, when Mr Clark said the proposal would ‘relieve the congestion, danger and pollution of the road between Pembury and Lamberhurst’.Fiveyearssince opening, the dualled A21 is now used by more than 12 million cars a year.
Designed with the expectation of 35,000 cars a day, the dual carriageway has since eased congestion and cut journey times on the important artery.
created 18 hectares of new woodland, as well as new areas of heathland.
Bypass
The A21 bypass as it was being built
The project was not without its detractors and opponents, especially as the cost spiralled from the original budget of £69.7million to more than £92million.
thebeencarPoliceTonbridgeStationparkhasaddedtolistofsites
A DUALLED stretch of the A21 near Tunbridge Wells celebrates its birthday today (Wednesday, September 21), marking five years since the project was completed.
The dualling was achieved at a cost of £92million of Government money that was used to replace 1.7 miles of single carriageway road with a dual carriageway road.
Before the upgrade, the road, which is the main route from London to Hastings, was often the cause of severe congestion and suffered above national average numbers of accidents compared to similar stretches of road.
CONSTRUCTION
The dualling of the main throughfare was first conceived in the early 2000s and a pledge to turn the road into a dual carriageway was part of Greg Clark’s first campaign to be MP for Tunbridge Wells in 2005.
The sites earmarked for development in the document includes Tonbridge Police Station car park, the Racecourse Sportsground, home to the town's bowls and football clubs, the car park adjacent to Birling Church, as well as car parks in West Malling and Larkfield.
And improvementsfurther have
In order to create a dualled section of road in Tunbridge Wells, two new junctions were built, providing better access to the A21 for homes and businesses along it.
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council (TMBC) had its last Local Plan – the document that outlines where new housing is to go in the town – thrown out by the Government Inspector in November last year, because it failed to cooperate with neighbouring authorities over unmet housing needs.
By Victoria Roberts
But there will be no celebrations to mark the anniversary, as the road is now in need of repair following half a decade of use.
Mr Clark and Roads Minister Baroness Vere last year
Roadworks planned for the autumn will see northbound and southbound sections of the A21 closed, or partly closed on weekday nights from Vauxhall Lane to Longfield Junction, for repairs andNationalmaintenance.Highways said: “This is part of a package of work to repair and maintain the bridges along the A21 Tonbridge bypass that will help keep the road and bridges safe for all road users, extend their lifespan and reduce the need for further unplanned closures.”
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As a result, TMBC has had to redraft the plan and has drawn up a list of 300 sites that could be built on as it seeks to find space for 15,941 new homes by 2040.
"In addition, an urban capacity study has also identified some other potentially available sites.
Work finally started on the 2.5-mile dual carriageway stretch of road between Tonbridge and Pembury in spring 2015, and opened in phases, starting with the new flyover at Longfield Road.
Car parks and green spaces threatened by Tonbridge plan
A SPORTSGROUND in Tonbridge and a number of the town’s car parks have all been included in a list of sites that could be lost to development after the authority was forced to draft a new local plan.
However, when the stretch of road opened, the highways agency said that they had
PUTTING THE DUAL IN THE HIGHWAYS CROWN
But the full Tonbridge to Pembury bypass was officially finished and opened by the Highways Agency on September 21, 2017.
Five-year anniversary of A21 dualling marked by roadworks
The importance of the dual carriageway was confirmed in early 2020, when the Medway Viaduct flyover above Haysden was closed for major repairs – adding up to an hour to journey times to get from Sevenoaks to Tonbridge.
Larkfield
Advice for businesses and residents to cope with the cost of living crisis
We spoke to a range of local experts about what can be done to help keep bills down for both residents and businesses during the cost of living crisis…
UK CHANCELLOR Kwasi Kwarteng is set to deliver a mini-budget this Friday (September 23) amid soaring energy, staff and materials costs.
The TWA is a hotchpotch in its own right. Its activists, of various political hues, have the improbable air of doing this council thing for a bet. Its leader David Hayward, a cabinet member, made it clear to Cllr Chapelard, writing in The Times of Tunbridge Wells ‘titular leader’– a leader in name only, who ‘definitely has no say or control over anything to do with the Alliance’. Nonetheless, Cllr Hayward lined up behind the Lib Dems, voting for parking increases.
made themselves from budget documents they probably didn’t well understand. Parking increases which will sting us all in this cost-ofliving crisis, are supposed to help to fill a supposed budget black hole they supposedly inherited from Conservatives.
As people await this Friday’s expected mini budget from the government for help with soaring bills, Victoria Roberts speaks to some key local experts about what measures can be taken, by both firms and households, to cut down on monthly bills and outgoings
hasHospitalityknowsectorgroupsgreattherewithcommunicatelocalwithcommunicationsourMPs.“Ialsourgebusinesstoeachother,areafewWhatsAppthatarespecific.Ithattheonebeena
Of course, now Putin’s war and the related inflation have upended things. Maybe they’d like to, but the coalition can’t blame Conservatives for that. Go Ukraine! Holden
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“Money doesn’t grow on trees, so why waste it on your energy bill? If you have the means, invest andappliancesefficientenergy-infixtures to cut your costs in the long run.“That could be fryer),ovenmicrowave,use(whetherhowreconsideringfromyoucookyouaorairturning
The coalition’s planned parking fees rise potentially harms recovery, jobs and businesses who say they’ll lose footfall.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:6 NEWS Local News Wednesday September 21 | 2022timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:16 NEWS Letters Wednesday September 7 | 2022
Hotchpotch
The hastily concocted, biased consultation finished this week, but still there’s no assurance the coalition will listen to the thousands of voices already raised, or even to the (probably far fewer) raised in the consultation should they also reject price rises. In truth, the coalition fears a paper tiger they
Cllr Matthew Sankey, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Small Business Champion
“Just after the pandemic we saw our communities really rally round our small and
Tunbridge Wells Conservatives Cllr Seán Holden has been the Conservative councillor for Benenden and Cranbrook since 2008 and the county councillor for Cranbrook Division since 2013. He runs a property business with his wife Corinna and before that he was a television reporter working for TV-am, ITV Meridian and ITN. In 2001 he was the Conservative parliamentary candidate for Chatham and Aylesford. ´
Energy prices have been the focus of many businesses’ hopes for government intervention after residents’ bills were capped by PM Liz Truss last week, but organisations’ energy prices are not limited by the ‘energy price cap’, which only regulates domestic prices.
Contact your local MP “I urge those in need to not relent on their
It’s fake news. Conservatives presented a budget shortfall in February because income levels were still below normal after the pandemic. But they were clearly recovering so it was necessary to see where they would go before deciding on further action. In Tunbridge Wells, vacant shops were being filled, benefiting from the Amelia Scott’s 100,000 visitors since it opened in April. There is growing income from business rates and the Conservative scheme to rent spare Town Hall space to businesses.
godsend for many of us, with sharing of information and all pulling together in a combined effort to lobby our MPs.
Coalition claims that Conservatives reinforced the budget from the council’s healthy £32 million savings during the pandemic are not true. Council borrowing was nil.
off appliances at the wall when they’re not in use and using energy-saving light bulbs. Need more advice? Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional.”
local businesses, I really didn’t think I’d be asking them to do so soon, however, I know they will come to the fore once again.”
‘THINGS fall apart; the centre cannot hold’. The great Irish poet, W B Yeats’ premonition of disintegration had grander themes than the puny ‘coalition of chaos’ trying to run Tunbridge Wells’ council, but the words fit. Bits started falling off the coalition jalopy when it chugged into its first major policy disaster – the unconsulted plan to raise car park charges by 25-75 per cent. A hasty, retrospective consultation ended on September 5 and is being assessed.Butalready, the coalition’s centre is not holding as the Liberal Democrat Leader Ben Chapelard grapples with the hotchpotch of his own party, Labour, a smattering of independents and the Tunbridge Wells Alliance (TWA). It took power only in May, though it seems like years ago.
public outcry from residents, businesses and town councils like Paddock Wood and Southborough about their views being completely ignored. Five petitions emerged with thousands of signatures. Rumblings grew within the coalition. The Alliance suddenly remembered its election promise to keep free
“Rising energy costs are affecting everyone – but especially businesses, which have far fewer
Invest in energy efficiency
Karen Smith, Bright Spark Electrical Services, ReachTonbridgeoutfor advice
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Inflation and higher interest rates are likely to be with us for the next few years, so now is the time to start managing your money better.
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beyondtoorthanpossiblewhereratherusingcardspayingonline.It’simportanttryandlooktheimmediate
Alex Greig, vice-chairman of the Tunbridge Wells Business Improvement District, also recommended Tunbridge Wells-based energy broker-consultants Energy Pal, to help businesses renew their contracts at the best available rate.
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THE COST of living is a source of depression and anxiety for almost a third of people in Britain, but it is essential to face your finances.
Jules Rastelli, Pink Connect, Cranbrook
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This comes after the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by a staggering 8.8 per cent in the 12 months to July 2022 – another 40 year high.
New research by Wealth at Work showed that 26 per cent of people feel depressed and anxious over the escalating cost of living, while 34 per cent view this as their biggest concern.
These are difficult times, and it may be tempting to bury your head in the sand when it comes to your finances, but taking stock of where you are currently and where you want to go, and devising a plan to get you there, should help give you a sense of direction.
Oliver
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Local News NEWS 7Wednesday September 21 | 2022
“There is an opportunity for people to get discounts and cashback from lots
By Amanda Redman, Financial Planner
This can include building cash reserves to act as emergency funds, taking the time to learn more about the basics of investing, perhaps working with a financial adviser, so you can become more financially resilient.
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FIXING BUSINESS ENERGY BILLS corporate bookings groups of friends alike, enjoy a night of dinner, disco & drinks 7.30pm - Midnight Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd & Thursday 8th December £25pp Tea £12.50pp
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Lucy Cameron, ActionCOACH, Tunbridge
In 2012, KCC founded a brokerage service, Lumina, to find businesses the lowest-cost contracts available the The organisation, which operates nationwide, manages a combined energy spend of £450million each
Enjoy a delicious full English and continental breakfast buffet with a very special Christmas visit from the man in red himself Saturday 24th December
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Serving up a special menu of seasonal delights… Christmas Lunch or Dinner Selected dates throughout December THE
LAW firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has recently grown its Commercial Property & Development team with the addition of two new appointments.
Qualified
Ellie Sawyer from Loch Law, part of Loch Associate’s Group’s, has been named as best newcomer in the prestigious awards.
As part of Loch Associates Group’s engagement with the Kent community, Ms Sawyer is involved in various fundraisers and community events, like ‘interTWine’, an initiative helping junior professionals locally.
The company predicted that the team would only grow further, with new additions bringing ‘strength and depth’ to the company.
Richard Ellard, Head of Commercial Property & Development at the firm said that the appointments will ‘enable us to continue to meet the demands of both existing and future developer clients’.
Ms Sawyer, who was ‘highly commended’ at last year’s awards, joined Loch Law in 2017 as an Administrative Assistant, and was soon promoted to the role of Legal Secretary.
Kimberley Ramsay also joins as a solicitor from East Sussex County Council, where she developed expertise in commercial leases, disposals, licences, adverse possession claims, and
AcademyFocusingconversions.onresidential development and commercial property, the firm is clear in its ‘ambitious growth plans’ and is hopeful for what new clients and team-members may bring.
For more information about the awards, visit nationalparalegalawards.com
Commenting on her nomination, Ms Sawyer said: “It’s a privilege to be shortlisted with so many high achieving young practitioners.”
Continuing growth would see Thomson Snell & Passmore continue to have one of the largest Commercial Property and Development teams in the South East.
Ms Gould’s work will focus on assisting house builders in the purchase of development sites, advising on aspects of site assembly.
Managing Director Pam Loch said that staff are the ‘biggest asset’ to the business, explaining that the best service is provided by staff with a ‘strong sense of local community’.
Law firm hires signal growth
Legal secretary has made the shortlist in paralegal awards
FINALIST Ellie Sawyer
A TUNBRIDGE WELLS-based legal secretary has been named as a finalist in the in this year’s National Paralegal Awards.
Advising
APPOINTED Charlotte Gould and Kimberley Ramsay
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Wednesday September 21 | 20228 BUSINESS Local News
The National Paralegal Awards winners will be announced on Thursday, September 22.
Described by colleagues as a ‘self-starter and an ideal individual to train as a Paralegal’, Ms Sawyer qualified two-and-a-half years ago, and now supports the team on a range of employment and commercial law concerns.
Charlotte Gould has joined as the Tunbridge Wells law firm as a partner in the residential development team having previously worked at Knight’s.
She explained how excited she was to celebrate with colleagues and peers, stressing how privileged she felt to be a National Paralegal Award finalist for the second year running.
By Madeleine Anderson
OVER half of professional landlords with more than ten properties have not done any estate planning for their portfolio, risking tax liabilities for their heirs, a wealth management company with offices in Tunbridge Wells has warned.
Consider estate planning professional landlords told
BUDGET supermarket Aldi stepped up during the school summer holidays by donating more than 14,820 meals to people in need across Kent.
Steve Butterworth from Neighbourly went on to explain how, ‘school holidays are often a time when demand on charities and food banks drastically increases’.
“Property investors with substantial portfolios often defer creating a wealth succession plan, but are prompted into action when considering the alternative – the need for their heirs to sell assets to meet the tax liability on death.”
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Local News BUSINESS 9
Lack of forward planning was also a feature of older landlords (aged 45 and older) half of whom had no long-term management plans.However, while those with largerscale portfolios are slightly less likely to have considered estate planning, small-scale landlords are overwhelmingly conscious of planning ahead.
She added: “This is why we committed to supporting even more amazing causes in Kent over the school holidays, helping them to provide meals to those who needed them most.”
Handelsbanken Wealth & Asset Management surveyed 120 professional landlords holding at least four properties, for its SME Landlord Survey Report 2022, and found 52 per cent with ‘large’ portfolios had no succession plan in place.
By Victoria Roberts
News of Aldi’s community work follows recent announcements that the company is expanding across Kent, seeking 161 new employees, and recruiting posts from Store Assistant to Store Manager.Whilenews of Aldi’s growth in the county does bring some employment opportunities, the coming months will likely see more people dependent on similar food-schemes to get by.
Other options considered by this group of forward planners include family trusts (35 per cent), family investment companies (28 per cent) and acquiring agricultural properties to qualify for agricultural relief (26 per cent), said the Handelsbanken report.
The German retailer has paired its stores with local charities, foodbanks, and community groups to donate over 700,000 meals throughout the UK via the community giving platform
Portfolios
Aldi has paired with foodbanks
Neighbourly.LizFox,Corporate Responsibility Director at Aldi UK, explained that the supermarket recognised how ‘hard the summer holidays could be for families, especially given the rising cost of living’.
Succession plans could include converting the property portfolio into a property development portfolio to attract business property relief – the plan for 54 per cent of all landlords surveyed who did have a succession plan.
CHRISTINE ROSS (inset)
Almost all – 96 per cent – of landlords across all age groups with a portfolio of four or five properties said they had long-term succession plans in place, compared to the 52 per cent of landlords with over 10 properties, the survey found.Thissuggested those with higher-value estates were less concerned about the tax liability facing the next generation said the report.
Meanwhile, 43 per cent were considering a charitable trust – which enables the handover of business to heirs with minimal tax exposure.
However Christine Ross, Client Director Handelsbanken’sat wealth management subsidiary, said: “The success of buy-to-let over the past decade has created huge numbers of wealthy landlords with a real need for dedicated financial and tax planning.
understanding what the process will involve, as well as what divorce will mean for you and your family. It also means getting your financial affairs in order. While divorce settlements are sometimes based on a ‘broad brush’ division of assets, time will need to be spent documenting those things owned jointly (the house, for example), and those owned separately - investments and valuables, perhaps. The earlier you can get your paperwork organised (and don’t be afraid to ask for help), the better able your solicitor will be to start working towards getting you the best outcome.
acts as an independent third party, helping a couple work through their issues and reach a resolution. The parties remain in control, as opposed to a judge imposing terms. It can be quicker and less expensive than court.
01892 337540 For more
HAVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE AROUND YOU
ENQUIRY@THOMASMANSFIELD.COM
Contact us today to talk about your situation. on information visit our
BE PREPARED
Divorce is difficult, on so many levels. But, as lawyers who help families untie bonds and reshape their future, we see the opportunity it brings for people to move on, equipped for the next phase in their lives. One common myth we’re always keen to dispel is that divorce will be an entirely negative and hostile experience. The truth is that it doesn’t have to be.
PUT YOUR CHILDREN FIRST Most separated parents are conscious of their children being caught in the middle of their relationship breakdown. But the reality of divorce is that children’s needs and wishes are not always met; parents can be easily and unintentionally distracted by fighting their own corner. Our advice is always to try to step into the child’s shoes. What would he or she want? What would be in his or her best picture.ofkeephard.thatwantyoudownbackingthisSometimesinterests?meanswhendon’tto,andcanbeButsightthebigger
Clients tell us that, during the most difficult parts of their divorce, they were spurred on by remembering ‘why’. That really is key. No one embarks on divorce lightly. They do it because their relationship is irreparable, despite best efforts. And they do it to find happiness elsewhere. Divorce is the stepping stone to getting there.
THOMAS MANSFIELD FAMILY LAWYERS
CONSIDER MEDIATION
CONSIDER MEDIATION Divorce doesn’t always need to be fought in the courts. Where two people are able and willing to work together to agree the terms of their divorce, mediation can be a great way of achieving a settlement. The mediator acts as an independent third party, helping a couple work through their issues and reach a resolution. The parties remain in control, as opposed to a judge imposing
Divorce is difficult, on so many levels. But, as lawyers who help families untie bonds and reshape their future, we see the opportunity it brings for people to move on, equipped for the next phase in their lives.
Go into divorce with your eyes wide open. That means
The introduction of “no-fault” divorce earlier this year has removed the necessity to play the blame game, but there are still some important steps you can take to help alleviate the impact of the divorce/ separation process on you and your family:
PUT YOUR CHILDREN FIRST
Our experience allows us to guide you on some important steps you can take to help alleviate the impact on you of the process:divorce/separation
BE PREPARED
One common myth we’re always keen to dispel is that divorce will be an entirely negative and hostile experience. The truth is that it doesn’t have to be.
HAVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE AROUND YOU
the right legal and financial help, too. Divorce can be a long and intense process, so it’s worth investing time in finding professionals you click with.
TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONE Call us today
two people are able and willing to work together to agree the terms of their divorce, mediation can be a great way of achieving a settlement. The mediator
today to talk about your situation.
Most separated parents are conscious of their children being caught in the middle of their breakdown.relationshipButthe reality of divorce is that children’s needs and wishes are not always met; parents can be easily and unintentionally distracted by fighting their own corner. Our advice is always to try to step into the shoes.child’s
Surround yourself with people who’ll help and support you. Friends and family really come into their own at times like these, so lean on those that truly have your back. Seek out the right legal and financial help, too. Divorce can be a long and intense process, so it’s worth investing time in finding professionals you click with.
terms. It can be quicker and less expensive than court. And the emphasis on collaboration can even begin to build bridges, which can be particularly important for those who need to maintain a more positive ongoing relationship with each other.
Go into divorce with your eyes wide open. That means understanding what the process will involve, as well as what divorce will mean for you and your family. It also means getting your financial affairs in order. While divorce settlements are sometimes based on a ‘broad brush’ division of assets, time will need to be spent documenting those things owned jointly (the house, for example), and those owned separately - investments and valuables, perhaps.
We’re family lawyers who focus on helping clients get ‘good’ divorces - good outcomes and good experiences. We’ll listen to what you want to achieve. We’ll find ways of getting what’s needed. And we’ll be alongside you, every step of the Contactway.us
ACCEPT THAT DIVORCE WON’T BE EASY
TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONE Call us today on 01892 337540 For more information visit our website: www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONETUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONETUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONE
website: www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONETUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE MAIDSTONETUNBRIDGE WELLS LONDON SEVENOAKS TONBRIDGE Advertisement feature
Surround yourself with people who’ll help and support you. Friends and family really come into their own at times like these, so lean on those that truly have your back. Seek out
A SOUTHBOROUGH charity is hoping to raise £1,000 following the recent news of flooding in Pakistan that has seen one-third of the country submerged.TheJamilTrust, set up by Nasir Jamil, conducted a five-kilometre charity walk earlier this month to raise money for the flood-stricken country, which raised more than £500.
WALKERS
John de Vial has spent the last nine years running for the Family Holiday Charity, and has now raised more than £120,000.
Around £200 was raised within a few days of publicising the event, with more recent donations totalling over £500, but a JustGiving page remains active with a target of £1,000.
This year’s fundraising success comes alongside Mr de Vial’s retirement from the travel industry, after 42 years in the business.
justgiving.com/fundraising/fhajohndevial
A SOUTHBOROUGH runner has finally met his charity target after nine years of running, after completing the 100-km Thames Path Ultra Challenge earlier this month.
Charity walk aims to bring relief to flood-hit Pakistan
The Thames Path Ultra Challenge, which he ran between September 10 and 11, was part of an extra year of fundraising for John, who wanted to secure more money for the charity and its families following the Covid-19 pandemic.
The fundraising walk on September 3 comes just a month after the Jamil Trust and wider British-Pakistani community members, celebrated 75 years of Pakistani independence alongside local MP Greg Clark last month.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Community News NEWS 11Wednesday September 21 | 2022 OPEN MORNINGS | COLLEGE SAT 24 SEPT & SAT 8 OCT | PREP SCHOOL SAT 1 OCT BOOK YOUR PLACE 01273 704200 | BRIGHTONCOLLEGE.ORG.UK United Kingdom School of the Decade THE SUNDAY TIMES WISH YOU WERE HERE BRIGHTON COLLEGE“ONE EXCEPTIONAL”WORD: TATLER “MOST THINKINGFORWARDSCHOOL” THE WEEK BC TW Times 160mm x 264mm - BCO 6645.indd 1 19/08/2022 15:06
Families
Mr de Vial added the Thames Path Challenge to his list of previous fundraising endeavours, which includes eight London Marathons and the Brighton Marathon.
Donations
John has currently raised more than £120,600 with Gift Aid – beating his £120,000 target to support holidays for 500 families.
Nasir Jamil (left) and former Mayor James Scholes who took part
Southborough runner achieves £120k charity target after nine years
By Madeleine Anderson
Mr Jamil told the Times: “The people of Tunbridge Wells, especially the Pakistani community, were shocked to know the scale of disaster caused by floods in Pakistan. Hundreds of people are dead, millions are displaced with no homes and food. Every little helps.”
Donations can be made via crowdfunding/pakistanfloodgivingjustgiving.com/
The Disasters Emergency Committee has explained that even smaller donations of £10 could provide essential hygiene supplies for two people in Pakistan.
Those wishing to add to Mr De Vial’s donations can do so via his JustGiving page, which includes more information on the Family Holiday Charity and its patrons.
Local Amateur Musical Players, and took part in various concerts by the Langborough Singers.
In 2021, Zak successfully competed in the World Para-Athletic European Championships, winning Gold in both events.
A TONBRIDGE athlete turned Team GB Paralympian and double European gold medallist has become an ambassador for Compaid, a disability charity in Paddock Wood.
Tickets for the concert can be purchased from the Tester and Jones office in London Road, Crowborough, as well as W.E. Cro & Son and J&K Gallery in Crowborough.
Compaid has been supporting Zak’s athletic career over the last two years by funding a leg recovery kit to aid his training towards the 2024 ParisCommentingParalympics.onZak’s athletic growth, Compaid CEO Stephen Elsden said: “It has been thrilling to see his para-athletic career progress.”
Zak has recently become an ambassador for Compaid, raising awareness for the work that Compaid does for disabled, older, and other disadvantaged people across Kent.
He competes in the T-13 category in Long Jump, and the 100 metres for athletes with moderate visual impairment.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:12 NEWS Community News Wednesday September 21 | 2022 SOFTHIREEXCLUSIVEFROM£100*PLAY Dual slides, a sky tunnel and a separate toddler zone… let your little ones loose in 550 square metres of FUN! Birthday AT WATERBEWLParties info@bewlwater.co.uk@bewlwater|bewlwater.co.uk SCAN HERE TO BOOK CHALLENGE Adults and kids can battle it out for gloryin real life in our arenafull of bunkers, boats,barrels and barriers… From £15pp EXCLUSIVEHIREONLYCalling£300*allgamers!LASER ADD £10.50FOODPARTYFORpp
Success
Zak commented: “It was an easy decision for me to want to link with Compaid, especially as it is also local to where I have grown up and began my athletics career.”
Memory
Having already achieved significant sporting success, Zak says that he is chasing bigger targets going forward, promising to ‘work even harder to achieve my goals at the Paralympics 2024’.
By Margaret Dowd
Later in 2021 he also took part in the Tokyo
Paralympics, finishing fourth in the Long Jump and eighth in the 100 metres.
Despite its challenges, Zak’s athletic career has seen both local and international success.
Local Paralympian becomes ambassador for Kent charity
The Langborough Singers will be presenting songs from shows Lucy performed in, bringing her memory and joy to life.
Tickets cost £12, which includes a glass of wine or soft drink, and all money raised will be donated to Epilepsy Research UK.
Concert to Crowboroughrememberwoman
Tickets can also be bought via Lucy’s mother Elizabeth, on 01892 654384.
ZAK SKINNER
The concert is being sponsored by Tester & Jones Funeral Services, and will be held on October 15.
Zak Skinner was born with a genetic visual impairment called ocular albinism, and began his training at Tonbridge Athletic Club, before moving to Loughborough for further coaching.
VISITS Zak (right) at a Compaid community project
A CONCERT is being held at The United Church in Croft Road, Crowborough in honour of a local woman who died lastLucyyear.Jarrett, who was brought up in Crowborough and enjoyed music from an early andalongsideregularlyage,singingfamilyfriends,was a member theSociety,OperaTunbridgeofWellsandDramaticaswellasTonbridge-based
Ms Jarrett was a singer and songwriter in her own right, having sung across various venues across Crowborough and Tunbridge Wells, including The Forum and The Grey Lady.
The rehabilitation classes consist of a six-week course of neuro-physio exercise classes led by Kent specialists from NeuroRehabilitation Kent but organised and paid for out of WKDS fundraising.Uptosixparticipants can participate in the class at one time.
Afterinformation.makingcontact with Lisa, herself a stroke survivor and advocate, he was able to scrap his old app and start work with developers on a new platform, tapping into WKDS’ expertise and experience to incorporate what they needed.
“The consequences of stroke survivors not getting rehabilitation is quite serious. There should be support at all costs. It can be devastating if they don’t receive any rehabilitation.”Confirminghe intended to continue funding the car service, Ian said: “I am prepared to support the group in any way I can for as long as possible.
Café Organiser Chris Murphy explained: “It takes 42 people to staff a repair café. I am so grateful for all the time and skill given freely by volunteers, it would not happen without them.”
From clocks to clowns, the café sees a huge mix of items being brought in for fixing and is calling for local people to come and assist in the process. Volunteers are needed in front of house greeting and repairing roles, as well as behind the scenes in admin and marketing.
A rehabilitation programme organised and paid for by the West Kent Different Strokes (WKDS) group started in August, but cuts to local bus services over the summer made it very difficult for many disabled attendees to get to the Southborough Civic Centre.
Advice is offered in a further 20 percent of cases, and irreparable items are recycled wherever possible.
Looking for solutions, group leader Lisa Beaumont arranged a group subscription to the Tunbridge Wells Community Car Service, and a digital entrepreneur who had worked closely with the group agreed to fund the account.
As well as pieces of sentimental value, some rarer items have also made their way into the shop. A Ming vase was even repaired last weekend, much to the surprise and excitement ofAnyvolunteers.moneyraised
is used to cover costs, and extra earnings are donated to charity, with over £1,000 raised for charities including West Kent Mind, and Taylor Made Dreams.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Community News NEWS 13Wednesday September 21 | 2022 COACH TOUR TO SCOTLAND 5 £317DAYS LOCH TUMMEL HOTEL PERTHSHIRE THURSDAY 3RD NOVEMBER AUTUMN BREAK TOUR INCLUDES: - 4 nights half board - Excursions - Nightly entertainment - Luxury coach travel LOCHS.COM 01389 713713 PICK UP FROM: Tunbridge Wells, Southborough, Tonbridge, Hildenborough, Sevenoaks, Swanley, Dartford, Birchanger Services TripAdvisor Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. Registered charity no. 1160024. Please scan the QR code Request your free Gifts In Wills Guide We’ve put everything you need to know about leaving a gift in your Will, including our free Wills service, into our free Gifts In Wills Guide. Call 0800 472 5779 Go to gosh.org/freewill Claim your free Gifts In Wills Guide by quoting GOSH22RP8. If you use our free Wills service, please be aware there’s no obligation to leave a gift to GOSH Charity in your Will, but after taking care of family and friends we hope that you may be inspired to do so. Just 5% of your estate could transform a child’s life. By leaving a gift in your Will you can help create a better future for seriously ill children like Anaiah-Grace
Chris said the café welcomes many regulars.
Anaiah-Grace was diagnosed with a rare mitochondrial disorder that affects her muscles, including her heart. A transplant was the only way to keep her alive, and after the operation, she and her mum, Faith, stayed at GOSH for the next 18 months.
Excitement
STROKE patients isolated by bus cuts can get to their rehabilitation classes again, thanks to a digital healthcare entrepreneur who has stepped in to fund a car service.
THE Repair Café in Tunbridge Wells has recently become the largest in the South East, with 27 repair stations, and over 70 volunteers.
The café can be contacted for information and advice at: twellsrepaircafe@gmail.com
Car service for stroke patients hit by bus cuts
By Madeleine Anderson
everything else had been mended,” he added.
The Repair Café, which is held at Trinity Theatre, is next open on October 1, November 5, and November 26. The café opens at 9.45am, with repairs from 10am until 1pm.
FIXED UP Repair atvolunteersCaféwork
Items brought in can hold historic as well as personal significance. Chris recalled a recent ‘coronation steam train’ which came with a newspaper article about the late Queen Elizabeth II.
“One person said they enjoyed coming along so much they needed to break something as
This help had made the new platform far more useful for patients, he said, with Neuro ProActive now ‘in the process of being rolled out to 42 NHS Trusts.’Paying for the car service to support the group was a small way to repay them for their help, he said.“It’s not a huge amount of money in the grand scheme of things to support the group and what they’re doing,” he stressed.
Chris describes the delight people show in having their items fixed, explaining that over 60 per cent of everything brought in gets repaired.
Repair café looks for new volunteers
Commissioned
Following his own father’s stroke in 2017, Ian Pearce, who does not have any coding experience, commissioned developers to create a digital platform to help stroke patients, carers and healthcare professionals communicate and share
Integrity | Courage | Imagination Open Events • Tuesday 20th September, 5pm - 8pm • Tuesday 27th September, 9am - 11am • Thursday 6th October, 9am - 11am • Tuesday 11th October, 9am -11am Academic Excellence | Character | Culture Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6LT For more information: enquiries@mascallsacademy.org.uk | 01892 835366 To find out more please visit our website at: mascallsacademy.org.uk AcademicCharacterExcellence | Culture At Mascalls Academy we pride ourselves on academic excellence and strength of individual character within a culture of aspiration and success supported by a National Area of Excellence in Creative Arts. Our pastoral care ensures that the individual is supported to be the best that they can be. Our students are happy, they are polite and achieve exceptionally well. An Inspirational Education for Girls and Boys in Tonbridge ImaginationCourageThursday 20th October Friday 21st October 9.30am - 10.30am Open Mornings Thursday 29th September Wednesday 5th October Friday 14th October 9.30am - 11am Find out more at leighacademytonbridge.org.uk | 01732 500600 SeptemberOpening2023 Wednesday 28th September 5pm - 8pm Open Evening Further tours may be arranged by request.
The grant of planning permission for non-agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants’ security of tenure.
the Year competition go back to 1965, when BBC Wildlife Magazine, then called ‘Animals’, attracted around 600 entries across three available categories. It was the leading event of its kind for nature photographers and grew in stature over the years. In 1984, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, as it is known today, was created and it is now run by the Natural History Museum.
“The show will be on every weekend until November 6 to the general public but should individual schools want to arrange a weekday visit they can do so by contacting the gallery’s administrator,” they add.
Signed: DHA Planning, On behalf of: Earlswood Homes, Date: Statement21/09/2022ofowners’ rights
Statement of agricultural tenants’ rights
ORE than 100 award-winning images have gone on display at Tonbridge School at its renowned OBS Gallery, which has the honour of hosting the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.
can capture. Each image portrays a potent moment in the natural world, imbued emotion,withand our attention is held and challengedsubtly at the same moveshearingvisitorswelcomingforward“Wetime.looktoandwhatthem
*“owner” means a person having a freehold interest or a leasehold interest the unexpired term of which is not less than seven years, or in the case of development consisting of the winning or working of minerals, a person entitled to an interest in a mineral in the land (other than oil, gas, coal, gold or silver).
“More than 50,000 entries were sent in from all around the world for this year’s competition,” a spokesperson for the school tells the Times
If you decide to make representations you should make it clear that you are an owner of the appeal site or tenant of an agricultural holding on the site and you should give the site address.
Claire Hart White, OBS Gallery Administrator and Curator comments: “We are delighted to host this extraordinary exhibition, which showcases what an eye can see and a camera
PUBLIC NOTICE Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 Notice under Articles 13 and 36 of the Town and Country Planning Proposed development at: Little Wold, Groombridge, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9NE and the land to the south. I give notice that Earlswood Homes having applied to the Wealden District Council For planning permission to erect 21no. residential dwellings, creation of new access road, internal roads, car parking, landscaping, drainage, public open space, junior football pitch, ancillary structures, and associated works is appealing to the Secretary of State. against the decision of the Council Any owner* of the land or tenant** who wishes to make representations about this appeal should write to The Planning Inspectorate Temple Quay House 2 The Square Bristol BS1 6PN By 11/10/2022
The origins of the Wildlife Photographer of
TIONEDUCA Times
‘We are delighted to host this extraordinary exhibition, which showcases what an eye can see and a camera can capture’
M
During its time at the OBS Gallery there will be a free, family ‘Drop-In Workshop’, on Sunday October 9 between 12pm and 4pm in Big School, next door to the OBS Gallery.
The grant of planning permission does not affect owners’ rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or in a lease.
Last weekend the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition opened at Tonbridge School’s OBS Gallery. On until November 6, it is on loan from the Natural History Museum and is already proving a huge success…
The exhibition at the OBS, which includes an accompanying video and self-guided gallery trail, is free to enter and will also be open during October half term.
Incredible
GHOSTLY Cristobal Serrano’s ‘Out of the Black’
On the evening of Thursday November 3, Henley Spiers, an award-winning underwater photographer, writer and expedition leader, will be the speaker for the School’s Art Talk. This is a free, but bookable event and places can be reserved via the EM Forster Theatre website at: emftheatre.com
Entries to this year’s competition range from a metallic looking octopus caught underwater by Cristobal Serrano, to a beautiful kingfisher with multicoloured wings taking flight, as captured by Christian Spencer.
**“tenant” means a tenant of an agricultural holding any part of which is comprised in the land.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Education NEWS 15Wednesday September 21 | 2022
Tonbridge School hosts prestigious wildlife photography exhibition
On loan from the Natural History Museum in London, the show features a range of incredible photographs which have been selected by an international panel of experts.
most. With a hundred images to reflect upon, there is something for everyone,” she adds.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:16 NEWS National News Wednesday September 21 | 2022
London Ambulance Service thanked its staff and volunteers who worked with St John Ambulance at the queue, saying they had cared for a total of 2,012 people who lined up, and had taken 240 to hospital.
The former Newcastle United owner had already handed over the reins to new chief executive Michael Murray in May, when he stepped back into an executive director role. Mr Murray, the founder’s son-in-law, was promoted to the position after leading Frasers’ ‘elevation strategy’ as the firm has sought to grow its premium division.
Stake
“You saw so many thousands out there and I don’t think anybody can suggest that our late monarch didn’t deserve that send-off, given the duty and the selfless service that she committed to over 70 years.”
Ms Donelan said her department was still ‘crunching the numbers’ as to how many people had queued for hours in London to process past the Queen’s coffin at Westminster Hall, but that she believed they numbered around 250,000.
She told BBC Breakfast: “There’s no dress rehearsal is there for this kind of scenario. It has been in the plans for years, but obviously we stress-tested everything and worked with community groups.”
She praised the help of the Samaritans, the Red Cross, the police and establishments across the South Bank that opened their doors to those
Ms Donelan said that most British people would see the cost of the Queen’s funeral as ‘money well spent’, but could not put a figure on what that cost might be.
King Charles III decreed on September 9, the day after the Queen died following her 70-year reign, that a period of mourning would be observed until seven days after the funeral.
Emotion
She said it would be ‘downright preposterous’ to suggest otherwise.
The billionaire retail tycoon will step down as a director after the group’s annual shareholder meeting on October 19, although he remains the controlling shareholder and will continue to act as an adviser to the board and senior management.
Mr Ashley said: “It is clear that the group has the right leadership and strategy in place and I feel very confident passing the baton to Michael and his “Althoughteam.Iam stepping down from the board, I remain 100% committed to supporting Frasers and Michael’s plans and ambitions, and I look forward to helping the team as and when they require me.
“My commitment and support as a Frasers’ shareholder is as strong as ever.”
Mr Ashley opened his first sports shop in 1982, which later became Sports Direct before the name was changed to Frasers Group after buying the House of Frasers department store in 2018.
Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan gave the figure the morning after the nation’s longestreigning monarch was buried at Windsor Castle.
“It was a great sense of the community coming together. I always think of our late monarch as
queuing.“Itwas a real team effort to enable people to have that moment to say goodbye and I want to pay tribute to everybody that was involved – all the volunteers, all the marshals, the stewards, it was incredible,” she said.
MIKE Ashley is to step down from the board of Sports Direct owner Frasers Group next month, 40 years after founding the retail empire.
AROUND a quarter of a million people paid their respects in person to the Queen by viewing her coffin as it lay in state in London, a government minister has confirmed.
Quarter of a million people paid respects to The Queen
the glue that brought society together,” she added.MsDonelan described the queue for Westminster Hall as ‘phenomenal’, as she paid tribute to the volunteers who helped manage and support the proceedings of recent days, including the lying-in-state.
The royal family is observing another week of mourning for the Queen after a state funeral on Monday that was full of emotion and ceremony under the gaze of the world.
Mike Ashley steps down from Frasers
Pressed on Sky News about the cost of the funeral, she said: “I’m not sure of the exact costings but as I say, I think the British public would argue that that was money well spent.
But Mr Ashley has remained closely involved in the firm’s management and is still the group’s biggest shareholder with a stake of nearly 70%. He said he remained ‘100% committed’ to backing the group and will stump up £100 million in financing to show his “continuing strong support”, with the cash lent on the same ‘ terms as its existing borrowing facilities.
Do you yourquestionshaveaboutfinances? Speak to your local team today 01892 883 www.charles-stanley.co.uk987
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: National News NEWS 17Wednesday September 21 | 2022
Your local Charles Stanley Investment Managers and Financial Planners are here to provide the answers and help you feel more in control of your financial future. Whether it’s your first foray into investing or you’re exploring your wider financial planning options.
The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested. Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Critics have taken issue with the timing of the likely lifting of the bankers’ cap introduced by European Union legislation in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. It limits annual pay-outs to twice a banker’s salary.
“Everything we do will be focused on delivering for people because ultimately what I want to see is more jobs, higher wages and more opportunities.”Butshewaspressed on whether her Government is on the right side as she also refuses to impose a windfall tax on energy giants to fund measures to prevent energy bills soaring further.“Weare on the side of delivering a higher wage economy, that’s what we need to do,” she said.
“What is important is what makes Britain more competitive,” she told reporters.
“But what is important to me, what is important to the Chancellor, is that people have more opportunities, there is more investment, there are jobs with higher wages. And we are prepared to make that argument. This is about growing the size of the pie.”
Ms Truss also defended the tax cuts coming in Friday’s ‘fiscal event’, which are expected to include a reverse of the national insurance hike and cancellation of the rise in corporation tax.
“Now, there are of course other measures that we have to take to spur economic growth as well.
“But having the highest taxes in 70 years and putting up corporation tax at a time when we’re trying to attract investment to this country isn’t going to deliver growth. We need to be competitive.”
Channel crossings resume as more migrants arrive in Kent
Proposal
It is the first time since Thursday that crossings
The latest arrivals mean the total number for the year so far is edging close to 30,000.
This is higher than the number for the whole of 2021, which was 28,526.
have taken place after the last few days saw windy conditions at sea.
PM says her policies ‘won’t all be popular’
MORE migrants have arrived in the UK as Channel crossings resumed after a four-day hiatus. A group was pictured being brought ashore in Dover on Tuesday as the weather improved.
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:18 NEWS National News Wednesday September 21 | 2022 WE ARE THE FUTURE. SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 1 OCTOBER 9AM-12PM KENT-COLLEGE.CO.UKST
Conditions
Instead, the Prime Minister defended measures to swell ‘the size of the pie’ as she struck out those with ‘vested interests’ who will oppose her policies aimed at boosting economic growth. She pledged the lower taxes Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng is set to announce in his mini-budget on Friday will ‘lead to economic growth, there is no doubt in my mind about that’.
That day more than 600 people arrived after nearly 40 were rescued from the Channel when their boat sank off the Kent coast.
With the policy all but confirmed, Ms Truss pointed to Mr Kwarteng’s upcoming announcement when asked about the proposal as she flew to New York for a UN summit.
“Not every measure will be popular and there are always vested interests, people who oppose measures that increase economic growth.
“Lower taxes lead to economic growth, there is no doubt in my mind about that,” she said.
During the campaign I talked about moving faster in getting growth projects going, mobile broadband fixing, the arteries of the economy –we need to do that too.
PM LIZ Truss conceded not all her policies will be ‘popular’ as she prepares to lift the cap on bankers’ bonuses while millions feel the squeeze of the cost-of-living crisis.
More than 29,700 people have crossed the Channel to the UK so far this year, according to provisional Government figures.
– P29SpecialProperty Your 28-page property guide All you need to know about the current housing and commercial market in Tunbridge Wells and the wider area Sponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
19Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
Southstudio
Wood & Pilcher
Stays P43
Bloom
– P25
“We are seeing buyers’ sentiment leaning towards technology which offers them lower utility bills and, developers are investing more heavily in energy-saving technology,” said Mr Fennell.
fundamental to our business model and home to the long-term relationships we nurture with our customers.”Personalmortgages have become a particularly important aspect of the bank’s business in Tunbridge Wells since 2008.
Newbuilds around one third cheaper to run say Hamptons
New homes accounted for around three-quarters of the top two environmental ratings handed out over the last year, meaning new homes can be around a third cheaper to run, according to
“At the same time, the technology going into newly-built homes uses progressively small amounts of energy, while efficiency standards are tightened further.
“The team understands how important a tailored, personal service is for their clients,” theyTheresaid.is no up-front cost to Homes of Distinction clients, they added. www.kings-estates.co.uk
The new direction will ‘provide the very best marketing, for the very best homes’, said owner-directors Gemma Collins, Mike Heath and Tom Snowdon.
KINGS ESTATES L-R Tom Snowdon (sales director), Gemma Collins (head of sales), Mike Heath (head of lettings)
Tunbridge Wells house prices are now double the national average
A spokesman for the local office explained, “We know our customers well and understand the local market and community. Our branches are
“New homes now account for around threequarters of the top two EPC ratings handed out
He added: “This gap means the average owner of a new home can run it for the same cost paid by owners of similarly sized older homes a decade ago.
‘For many years, most buyers took no more than a cursory glance at the EPC’
Individual
RELATIONSHIP banking is the ideal basis for personal mortgage provision thanks to the range of information advisors can consider when recommending a loan, according to local bankers.
If clients can provide detailed information and evidence of their income, expenditure, assets
“This can be challenging and will need to be given serious thought, especially in the current interest rate environment.
“We are here to help guide and advise on all types of mortgages – all relationships start with a conversation.”
Relationship banking that eases borrowers into their tailored loans
head of new home sales for the firm, said: “For many years, most buyers took no more than a cursory glance at the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of the home they were buying, but the recent seismic increases to energy bills have changed that.”
over the last year,” said Mr Fennell.
AVERAGE sold prices in Tunbridge Wells over the past year have topped £500,000 – around twice the UK average, according to a family-run estate agent, which has restructured to focus on the very top end of the market.
“Our analysis shows that the gap between the running cost of a new and a second-hand home now stands at £1,000 per year, with new homes coming in around a third cheaper.”
www.handelsbanken.co.uk/en/find-branch/ tunbridge-wells
Kings Estates has been trading for well over 40 years and recently re-incorporated the Homes of Distinction department established by Nicholas Heath, the original founder of the independent estate agency.
Mission
Total costs include gas, electricity, water, council tax, broadband and TV licence, but as utility prices have risen, the total cost of running a second-hand home has risen by 33.1 per cent over the last year compared to 22.1 per cent for a new home, said Mr Fennell.
The owners said the mission of the Homes of Distinction department was ‘to provide the very best marketing, for the very best homes’.
‘The right advice and guidance at the right point in time can be invaluable’
The spokesman advised: “Consider whether you have multiple or complex income streams.”
and other liabilities, a mortgage provider can more fully understand the financial position and properly assess current and future mortgage affordability.“Whetheryou are looking for your first home, moving to a new home or are considering a re-mortgage, the right advice and guidance at the right point in time can be invaluable to help you make the right decisions at key points in the entire property purchase process,” said the spokesman.Inthecurrent environment of increasing interest rates, he advised starting the mortgage process as soon as possible, in order to understand what is affordable and what the monthly mortgage payments will be.
The energy performance divide has opened up between houses built over the last 20 years, compared to those built longer ago.
21Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
www.hamptons.co.uk
Hamptons.KyleFennell,
With each branch operating as a local business, Handelsbanken’s offices identify their own priorities, which in Tunbridge Wells means individual and corporate banking as well as wealth management.
“As utility prices rise, this gap looks set to widen even further given that it’s much harder and more expensive to upgrade second-hand homes retrospectively.
Sized
•96% of our clients would recommend us
•Zero arrears since 2019
•41% of our sales agreed are above £1 million
* Rightmove Plus Sales Agreed to 16th September 2022. **Figures collated August 2022
Did you know that Maddisons Residential has agreed the most sales of 3-bedroom plus properties in Tunbridge Wells so far this year?*
Excellence is not a skill set. It’s an attitude. 01892 514100 • info@maddisonsresidential.co.uk • www.maddisonsresidential.co.uk
10 years of expertise in Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas
‘’I have been using Maddisons for my rental property since 2017 and they have been fantastic. they provide me with feedback following any tenant visits and always pay rent transfers promptly. There is very little if no need for me to do anything but let Maddisons do the professional work they promised they would do.’’
•31 months average tenancy duration
‘’5* star exceptional service from start to finish. I have now had the pleasure of buying and selling twice with Maddisons and I cannot recommend them highly enough. If you are looking for a professional, efficient, knowledgeable, hardworking and caring estate agent then look no further. Maddisons think outside of the box, are adaptable and are, without doubt, truly brilliant!’’
•94% of Google Reviews are 5 Star rated
•104% of asking price achieved on sales**
•98.7% of our rental properties achieve asking rent or above
•Offers secured within 3 viewings on average
Mrs T Foulston
Here are some of our key performance figures that we are truly proud of:
•99% success rate of selling properties other agents have not sold
Always Outperf orming
Mr D Williams
23Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialIn association with sjmplanning.com SUSSEXVIEW FRA NT SUSSEXVIEW FRA NT villageSellinglivingFast50%alreadysold Prices from £495,000 An exclusive development of high quality homes with stunning views across Eridge Park and the Weald of Sussex beyond. Each home has been thoughtfully designed in the traditional Abergavenny style alongside contemporary interiors, suited to today’s modern lifestyle. Located in the pretty village of Frant, yet close to the major town of Tunbridge Wells with its great road and rail links Don’t miss out, call 01892 511211 today to book your viewing Computer generated image. woodandpilcher.co.uk W&P-Sussex-View-264x340mm-Spet22-AW.indd 1 15/09/2022 14:00
Fallback
Stephen Donnelly of SJD Land and Development Consultants, said: “Unlike conventional methods, details of your property or site are not posted on portals, paraded in agents’ windows, or advertised online and in newspapers, only to attract the attention of a flock of uncommitted buyers.
SJD had built relationships with developers and buyers interested in sites and properties throughout the UK, he added.
‘Sales are made through direct contact, ensuring your property or site is sold swiftly’
Gatwick Airport lies approximately 26.5 miles to the west and Ashford International Station about 31.7 miles to the east.
Frant has its own station at Bells Yew Green, 2.3 miles from the village, one stop from Tunbridge Wells within 2.5 miles.
25Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
www.woodandpilcher.co.uk
The village has a small high street of period buildings, a shop with café, village hall and hairdresser. There is a choice of two highlyregarded and welcoming village pubs. The village boasts a nursery school and primary, but preparatory schools nearby include Holmewood House in Langton Green and Rosehill and The Mead in Tunbridge Wells. For secondary students, the area boasts
“Sometimes this argument can be particularly effective.”
‘There are a number of golf courses in the area and several private membership spas’
www.sjmplanning.com
The spokesman added: “This is subject to a set size criteria and consultation process with adjoining properties.”
Lifestyle and leisure are on sale at Frant development
The spokesman said: “SJM Planning will use a ‘PD (Permitted Development) Fallback position’ to demonstrate to the Council that a larger extension could be achieved through permitted development, than the one sought.
“We then add them to our client list and contact them when presented with a property or site that meets their requirements.” added Mr Donnelly.
NEWBUILDS The Frant homes
‘Prior Approval applications now allow for properties to extend up to six metres’
community colleges in Wadhurst, Crowborough and Heathfield, while independent senior schools in the area include Tonbridge School for boys, Mayfield School for girls, and co-ed options at Sevenoaks, Brighton and Eastbourne.Recreational activities in the area are extensive, with cricket, football and bowling clubs within the village; sailing, cycling and fishing at Bewl Water; spectacular walking and riding routes in the Ashdown Forest and racing nearby at Lingfield Park, Plumpton and Brighton.Thereare a number of golf courses in the area and several private membership health spas in Tunbridge Wells.
A BOOM in ‘off-market’ and private property sales has been driven by buyers’ desire for discretion and the convenience of direct contact with a buyer, said a development consultant.According to Hamptons International last year, one in four sales above £1 million in London took place ‘off-market’.
criteria – are significant’, said a spokesman for theMeanwhile,consultants.the introduction of Prior Approval applications now allow for terraced and semidetached properties to extend up to six metres and detached dwellings up to eight metres.
Marketing the ‘Sussex View’ complex of newbuilds, Wood & Pilcher said the Kent-East Sussex border location was central to providing an idyllic version of village life, with views, walks and village pubs – with access to all the amenities.Frantisa picturesque village set around a central green situated in the Wealden district of East Sussex, and renowned for its bustling community spirit and close proximity to the town of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
Welcoming
“Instead, sales are made through direct contact, ensuring your property or site is sold swiftly to a reputable buyer. Private sales
Portals
Both stations serve London Bridge, Waterloo East, Charing Cross, Cannon Street to the north, and Hastings on the south coast.
www.sjd-projects.co.uk
CHANGES to legislation over the years have increased the range of building and extension work that can be done without planning permission, so it is always worth checking permitted development rights, according to SJM Planning.TheTown and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 had expanded those permitted development (PD) rights to such an extent that ‘the works that can be conducted – for those homes which meet the
Meanwhile, drivers can access the M25 via the A21 just north of Tunbridge Wells, linking to the national motorway networks and airports.
The legal frameworks can even be used to permit development in situations when planning policies are more restrictive, for example in the countryside or greenbelt, said the company.
‘Off-market’ property sales gain traction as buyers seek discretion and convenience
generate a sense of exclusivity, boosting the likelihood of a quick and hassle-free transaction.”Meanwhile, on the buyer side, he said: “The best buyers and developers no longer search through pages and pages of advertisements for their next opportunity.”
Frant offers the ideal mix of access to education and lifestyle, according to an estate agent marketing a new development in the village.
Using Permitted Development Rights to expand without planning permission
A LUXURY property developer has sold all but one unit in its 13-home complex in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Insulation
www.belvoir.co.uk
The Hillside Park development in Linton, south of Maidstone, was launched in January 2021 by Fernham Bespoke Homes.
installing utilities, and nailing down build costs.
INTERIOR design can start right at the building stage, says a Speldhurst-based full-service design company which has re-worked over 40 houses across Kent, Sussex, Surrey and beyond over the last decade.
Organisers
Vanessa Morgan of Ven Morgan said: “I’ve always been intrigued by people’s living choices and the way in which interior design can transform the way we interact with a space.
“With our in-house team, we can confidently manage everything for our clients, from interior architectural detail and design, to development, build and styling,” said Ms Morgan.Theclient management system is integrated too, she added, with every conversation, design detail and cost logged to ensure budgets are transparent and controlled.
Extension
SELLING FAST Just one home remains in
Draught excluders designed for chimneys can also help.
run
KENT is the focus for a new series of monthly networking events for property investors, developers and amateurs, from October 13.
Luxury development in Kent beauty spot selling out
‘I simply don’t believe that a one-size-fits-all extension is the best way to increase value’
“Renters are keen to have certainty on their monthly outgoings as the cost-of-living squeeze continues,” said Belvoir Tunbridge Wells.
www.venmorgan.com
Developers to monthly autumn networking events the
working together to ensure all projects are delivered by a single team.
“As up to 25 per cent of heat is lost through the
loft, this significantly improves the energy efficiency of your home, leading to lower bills, and it pays for itself in around two years,” said Belvoir.Theyadded: “Installing draught excluders at the bottom of doors or around wonky window frames, or even just hanging thick curtains, will help to reduce heat loss.”
new development
Other improvements can pay for themselves, such as loft insulation.
“Whether you are a landlord or a homeowner with rising costs it makes more sense than ever to look at energy efficiency measures.”
One of the most effective ways to save energy can be implemented by owner-occupiers and tenants, by turning down the thermostat by just one degree for an up to 4 per cent saving on bills.
“I simply don’t believe that a one-size-fits-all extension is the best way to increase room or value.”VenMorgan, founded in 2011, is a femaledominated team of designers, developers, and craftsmen, and a construction subsidiary, all
REWORKED Ven Morgan has revamped 40 homes in the last 10 years
LAGGING BEHIND Tenants want low running costs
Situated
One size does not fit all for new home extensions
Speakers
‘Bills included’ becomes most popular search term for renters as tenants look to efficiency
The Developers’ Network Kent will address issues from getting started in property development to financing projects, whether they be ‘flips’ or newbuilds, said organisers Bisc Berry Homes and Whitebox Property Solutions. Advice will include planning and design,
Hosts Bisc Berry Homes will share experience from their current two development sites, as well as bringing numerous other speakers to the stage each month, said the organisers. Meanwhile, they said, participants will be able to network with other developers, investors, contractors, agents, architects and more. whiteboxps.com/kent
The small collection is situated in 1.85 acres, with private gardens merging with the communal grounds, landscaped with mature trees and hedgerows.Thehouses feature locally-quarried ragstone worked by stonemasons rather than pre-worked blocks on a panel, to fit in with the local surroundings.Thedeveloper now has just one house left, the five-bedroom Elm House, with an asking price of £1.35million. www.fernham-homes.co.uk
26 Property special Wednesday September 21 | 2022Sponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
‘BILLS included’ has become the most popular search-term for tenants, meaning landlords should be seeking energy efficiencies measures to reduce their properties’ running costs, a local residential lettings agency has advised.
Wednesday September 21 | 2022 In association with sjmplanning.com HELLO, are YOU… …developing a new scheme or needing planning? …launching, repositioning or rebranding? …looking to reach audiences & drive footfall? …raising funds or preparing to exit? We are your trusted communications partner for all strategic & destination marketing & PR activity across the built environment. We empower & equip you with creative content, campaigns & events that fill news pages, diversify your digital footprint & drive community support. We add value to your property business. We are brand & communication specialists for property & people with www.calvermont.compurpose.
In the past, we’ve helped clients to buy ski chalets in Colorado, France, Italy and Andorra, villas in Spain, Cyprus and the Caribbean and properties close to golf courses in Portugal, Florida and Turkey. Typically our clients have saved a lot of money on the currency exchange compared with a bank and you could as well. With Cornerstone there are no bank transfer charges or commission fees to pay. Depending on the value of the purchase or sale, we can literally save our clients thousands of pounds.
A forward contract to reserve a forward price
It takes time to buy a property and during this time, currency exchange rates can potentially be fluctuating at an alarming rate. If the rate of exchange moves adversely in relation to individual currency requirements, people can find their property purchase may cost them significantly more than expected. A solution available to combat any currency volatility is a Forward Contract. This reserves a forward price for buying or selling currencies for a specified date in the future and is a way of protecting foreign currency exposure to the market ups and downs. The locked in price is determined on the day the amount is agreed as well as the settlement date for the forward contract.
Are you planning to buy a property abroad or perhaps selling an overseas house or apartment?
Cornerstone can’t sell properties or find dream homes, but we can save our clients oodles on the currency exchange rates. When buying or selling property abroad, it is inevitable that a large sum of money will be transferred, so plan in advance to avoid running the risk of exchange rates going against you. This will ensure any foreign exchange fluctuations do not impact in a negative way. The risk management tools we use will help to mitigate these risks and give our clients peace of mind.
Ongoing payments through Cornerstone
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Taking control of the process of transferring the money and considering exchange rates, transfer fees, efficiency of the process, time it takes and perhaps managing more than two currencies is an absolute must. And of course associated with an overseas dream home purchase, there will likely be ongoing upkeep costs, which will have to be paid on a regular basis. These will include utility costs, community fees, taxes, management services, mortgage payments and Internet fees. We have helped many of our clients save lots of money here on the exchange rates as well by providing a simpler way to manage those payments.
Cornerstone is a trading name of Cornerstone Payment Solutions Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cornerstone FS PLC (Company number: 08367949). Cornerstone Payment Solutions Limited is registered in Northern Ireland (No. NI602461): 1 Elmfield Avenue, Warren Point, Newry, County Down, Northern Ireland. Cornerstone Payment Solutions Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 521572) under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 for the issuing of electronic money. Cornerstone Payment Solutions Limited is registered with the Information Commissioners Office with registration number ZA128178. *Bank beating exchange rates based on the following example of converting £200,000 GBP to EUR ran on 5 May 2022 via moneytransfers.com. Cornerstone offer a rate of 1.18022, £200,000.00 would return €236,044.74. Barclays offer a rate of 1.14649 – £200,000 would return €229,297.22 – Savings €6747.52. HSBC offer a rate of 1.14530
Buying a home overseas may be a dream come true, but bringing that dream to fruition usually entails one of the biggest purchases of anyone’s life. It’s definitely an exciting time, but stepping into the unknown can be daunting. Buying an overseas property involves using a different currency, understanding different financial rules and perhaps speaking a different language. Tax implications, the legal system and all the processes will also have to be considered. Getting the best possible exchange rate for your transaction needs to take priority and when solicitors are paid, it’s important payment or transfer fees are not incurred.
Savings of thousands of pounds
Recently a client forward purchased £400K at 1.1850 for delivery at the end of September, giving them €474,400.00. The same trade now at 1.1545 would give them €461,800.00.
A saving of €12,600
Craig CornerstoneStrong
Sign up today with Cornerstone
To find out more, visit our website, www.cornerstonefs.com or call us on 0800 298 2785 or +44 (0)1892 614400 today if you are thinking of buying or selling a property abroad.
Buying a dream home is an exciting time
Using a specialist currency exchange specialist makes a lot of financial sense in both scenarios. Cornerstone has been helping our clients to buy and sell their properties overseas for quite a few years now. So if a hideaway cottage, an apartment in the sunshine or an investment property in an up-and-coming market sounds perfect, it’s definitely worth looking into whether we can help get the best currency exchange rate for your transactions. – £200,000 would return €229,049.01 – Savings €6995.73
“At Cornerstone, we don’t have a crystal ball, but doing nothing and hoping/praying the rate will work favourably doesn’t always come to fruition, whereas sensible market orders have a good chance of being achieved.”
A ski chalet in Chamonix, a villa on the Costa del Sol or a golf condo in Indian Wells
29Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
Rejections
Planning permission is dependent on local relationships says architects’ firm
AN ABILITY to get numerous projects through the local planning process is a matter of local relationships, according to an architects’ firm which relocated to Tunbridge Wells two years ago.Founded in London in 2011, Southstudio moved its headquarters to Tunbridge Wells two years ago and has since been involved with a number of private residential, mixed-use and community projects.
Director Patrick Bankhead said he and his team had become known for helping get even the trickiest permissions through Planning, including sites that had previously been deemed too complex, with multiple rejections.
Southstudio’s head office is located in the High Street in Tunbridge Wells, but it is
planning to expand its team to work on both private and more commercial projects to enhance the Meanwhile,community.directorRichard Brearley is continuing to expand the firm’s London office,
“This success is due to the firm’s commitment to authentic design that responds to the period, environment and surrounding architecture; and relationships with local stakeholders and authorities, the community and planners,” he said.
“The Tunbridge Wells community is passionate about well designed, sustainable homes, and we enjoy working closely to ensure we can deliver on these points.”
Our lending facilities are only available to persons aged 18 or over and are subject to status. Written quotations and Terms and Conditions are available on request. Handelsbanken is the trading name of Handelsbanken plc, which is incorporated in England and Wales with company number 11305395. Registered office: 3 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1WY, UK. Handelsbanken plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register number 806852. Handelsbanken plc is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ). handelsbanken.co.uk/tunbridgewells HB 22 - 0717 - 0264 l 10.240 04.2022 thatMortgagesworkfor you, without the hard work Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage As a relationship bank we think getting to know you is the best way to help you. You’ll have a dedicated account manager from application to completion, making those key decisions so your move is stress-free. Ready to move? So are we. Call Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells branch today on 01892 547702 HB 22 - 0717 - Tunbridge Wells Mortgage Advert.indd 1 19/08/2022 14:52:38 ‘Tunbridge Wells is passionate about well sustainabledesigned,homes’
The firm had created 32 sustainable homes in Tunbridge Wells over the last two years, he added.“Aswell as being attractively presented, the homes need to be practical and fit the modern needs of those around us. We are proud to have brought forward these much-needed new homes in a relatively short timeframe.”
running a number of assisted living, community and educational projects, alongside their core business of private homes. southstudioarchitects.com
We marry interiors with architecture to elevate your property project and create spaces without compromise.
With a personal approach and keen eye for detail, you can trust us to oversee every aspect of your property project, from design concept through to development delivery and styling. Our all-female design and project management team, on-site house builders and skilled carpenters will make you feel at ease throughout.
With over 50 years’ experience across homes for A-list celebrities to rural families, we bring longevity and individuality to everything we do.
inf O @venm O rg A n.c O m | WWW .venm O rg A n.c O m | 01892 234034
Are you looking for interior design advice, or to reconfigure or even redevelop your home? Our full-service proposition and united team of qualified designers and craftsmen enables us to create the highest specification spaces, just for you.
Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG | 01580 880567 Visit Culverwells for all of your Autumn Garden Tool needs. Stihl, Husqvarna and Mountfield essentials in stock to help you with your seasonal garden chores! Don’t forget to ask us about servicing your lawn mowers and tools ready for next spring!
32 Property special Wednesday September 21 | 2022In association with sjmplanning.com IF YOU THINK YOUR LAND OR PROPERTY HAS DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL, THEN GIVE US A CALL WITHOUT OBLIGATION AND IN CONFIDENCE. Many of our clients retain our services and, in the majority of cases, pay our fees saving property owners significant costs. For more information contact Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 steve@sjd-projects.com579937 We are always on the lookout for land and property with developmentpotential LAND AND PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 514350 or 01892 579937 website: sjd-projects.com email: steve@sjd-projects.com For regular updates, visit us at twitter.com/projects majority of significant costs. houses, conversions,replacement,redundanthouseslarge Commercial buildings for residential conversion, former public houses, redundant buildings for redevelopment, buildings for conversion or replacement, houses for improvement, large sites on the edge of town, barn conversions, large gardens in residential areas and major regeneration projects. sjd-projects.com ORPLOTNOT?
With excellent relationships with local planning authorities and a focus on community engagement, the team can be trusted to create a beautiful and deliverable home or project that fits into the local environment and lasts long into the future.
33Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialIn association with sjmplanning.com
Get in touch at www.southstudioarchitects.com to bring your property project alive.
Award-winning architects based in Royal Tunbridge Wells
In two years, Southstudio has delivered 32 highly designed and sustainable homes in and around Tunbridge Wells.
The flexible skills of the team mean that they also work on mixed use, commercial and public realm developments locally and across London and the South East.
Choose an architect that works with you to plan your private residential property.
Southstudio
Independent
Calvermont encountered unexpected demand for their services during lockdown, with clients ranging from developers communicating with local communities about new projects, to corporates communicating internally with staff, and property companies managing communications and reputation within their marketplaces.Co-founderLaura Gibson said: “As an external agency, we are able to help businesses take a step back and conduct audits to understand target audiences and the best ways to reach them.
With clients as varied as the Government Property Agency, property consultancy Cluttons and asset managers Lateral, to local house builders Beau Property, architects Southstudio and interior designers Ven Morgan, Calvermont is keeping the lines of communication open. www.calvermont.com
The agency’s property sales business has continued growing, on the back of competitive fees and end-to-end service.
JACK Charles Estate Agents are expanding in Tunbridge Wells with a new office on London Road near The Pantiles, in addition to their existing offices in the town.
Communication is ‘name of the game’ says Tunbridge Wells property PR firm
stressful and frustrating at times, so having a proactive and professional team behind you becomes invaluable,” said Mr Hincks. Jack Charles are also investing in their letting business, and their property management team have taken on a range of clients, including portfolio landlords and private investors. jackcharles.co.uk
STAKEHOLDER communication is the name of the game for Tunbridge Wells-based PR experts Calvermont, whether in the property, destinations or other business sectors.
James Hincks, managing director and
co-founder of the independent agent, said: “We are so excited to be opening in such a prominent and accessible location. It’s a key part of our rollout strategy and investment in the town.”
“We also speak the language of property and business specialists, so we can write and comment in the media quickly with minimal
questions and edits, thereby reducing cost and time.“Lastly, but perhaps most importantly, there is a very real need to engage with the community clients operate within. This can be formally, through public consultation or, more informally, by listening to local challenges, concerns and even ideas. In today’s world, people just want to be heard and valued.”
Builders
GROWTH Jack Charles
New site for estate agents as lettings business to expand
35Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells GUEST SPEAKERS EVERY MONTH! October's speakers are Lloyd Girardi &Andi Cooke from Whitebox Property Solutions. Come and hear their journey to £40M of property in 8 13THWEDNESDAYyears!OCTOBER 6.30PM-9.00PMBARAHAM COURT, TONBRIDGE ROAD, MAIDSTONE, KENT ME18 5BZ EXPAND YOUR PROPERTY NETWORK at our event you will meet architectsfinancecontractorsdevelopersinvestorsplannersagentsbrokersandmore BOOK TICKETS whiteboxps.com/kent or scan the QR code
“The process of selling a property can be
ADVERTISINGADVERTISINGFEATUREFEATURE TUNBRIDGE WELLS MOUNT EPHRAIM OFFICES 1200sq.ft FULLY REFURBISHED 5 Car Parking Spaces TUNBRIDGE WELLS Wellington Gate OFFICES 1470sq.ft/1880sq.ft & TWO SUITES OF 4000sq.ft On Site Parking PADDOCK WOOD Maidstone Road NEW BUSINESS UNITS LAST907/1800sq.ft2UNITSUNDEROFFER TUNBRIDGERETAILWELLS HIGH£40,000paxSTREET TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONSDALE GARDENS OFFICES AVAILABLE865sq.ftNOW TUNBRIDGERETAILWELLS CAMDEN£20,000pax540sq.ftROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS HIGH STREET OFFICES £12,000pa300sq.ftallinclusive TUNBRIDGE WELLS CENTURY PLACE OFFICES 1800/9000sq.ftCARPARKING TUNBRIDGE WELLS The Great Hall OFFICES 5787sq.ft 11 CAR AVAILABLESPACESNOW TUNBRIDGE WELLS DEACON LAMBERTSESTATEROAD BUSINESS UNIT 5588sq.ft TUNBRIDGE WELLS HANOVER PLACE OFFICES 2200sq.ft 11 Car Parking Spaces AVAILABLE NOW TUNBRIDGERETAIL/OFFICESWELLS LITTLE MOUNT SION £16,000pax1300sq.ft BUSINESS SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR TO LET We are here and open for business ADVERTISING FEATURE TUNBRIDGE WELLS MOUNT EPHRAIM OFFICES 1200sq.ft FULLY REFURBISHED 5 Car Parking Spaces TUNBRIDGE WELLS Wellington Gate OFFICES 1470sq.ft/1880sq.ft & TWO SUITES OF 4000sq.ft On Site Parking PADDOCK WOOD Maidstone Road NEW BUSINESS UNITS LAST907/1800sq.ft2UNITSUNDER TUNBRIDGERETAILWELLS HIGH£40,000paxSTREET TUNBRIDGE WELLS LONSDALE GARDENS OFFICES AVAILABLE865sq.ftNOW TUNBRIDGERETAILWELLS CAMDEN£20,000pax540sq.ftROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS HIGH STREET OFFICES £12,000pa300sq.ftallinclusive TUNBRIDGE WELLS CENTURY PLACE OFFICES 1800/9000sq.ftCARPARKING TUNBRIDGE WELLS The Great Hall OFFICES 5787sq.ft 11 CAR AVAILABLESPACESNOW TUNBRIDGE WELLS DEACON LAMBERTSESTATEROAD BUSINESS UNIT 5588sq.ft TUNBRIDGE WELLS HANOVER PLACE OFFICES 2200sq.ft 11 Car Parking Spaces AVAILABLE NOW TUNBRIDGERETAIL/OFFICESWELLS LITTLE MOUNT SION £16,000pax1300sq.ft BUSINESS SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR TO LET We are here and open for business BUSINESS SPACE AVAILABLE FOR SALE OR TO LET TUNBRIDGE WELLS OAKHURST4758sq.ftOFFICESHOUSE 20 Car Parking Spaces NEW LEASE AVAILABLE TUNBRIDGE WELLS CENTURY AVAILABLE11,300sq.ftOFFICESPLACEINSUITESCARPARKING TUNBRIDGE WELLS Wellington8000sq.ftOFFICESGate On Site Parking TO BE REFURBISHED 2 X 4000sq.ft Floors TUNBRIDGE WELLS KENWOOD HOUSE RETAIL/ INCOMEFORBUILDINGOFFICESALE&PLANNINGFOR8APARTMENTS TUNBRIDGE WELLS GROUND FLOOR OFFICE NEWLY1100sq.ft.REFURBISHED ON SITE PARKING BELLS YEW GREEN OFFICES900sq.ft TO LET OR FOR £12,500paxSALE TUNBRIDGE WELLS MOUNT115787sq.ft.OFFICESPLEASANTCarSpaces TUNBRIDGE WELLS BROCKBOURNE HOUSE AVAILABLE AMPLE7000sq.ftOFFICESSOONPARKING TUNBRIDGE WELLS HIGH STREET RETAIL LEASE GROUNDASSIGNMENTFOR&BASEMENT£28,000pax PROMINENTTUNBRIDGEPOSITIONWELLS HANOVER PLACE FIRST FLOOR 2100sq.ftOFFICES 11 CAR SPACES TUNBRIDGE WELLS CAMDEN ROAD Retail Units TO LET TUNBRIDGE WELLS BELLS YEW 1,400sq.ftOFFICESGREEN TO LET or FOR SALE
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Further details on the above and other commercial property can be obtained by contacting Shane Raggett at Broadlands Commercial Property Agents on 01892 512422 or shane.raggett@broadlands.co.uk
Acting on behalf of a private client we have sold Eridge House 1 Linden Close Tunbridge Wells to a firm of solicitors who have re-located from Sevenoaks to Tunbridge Wells. This 3190sq.ft building is located just behind the historic Pantiles and has 14 on site car parking spaces.
Over the last year to eighteen months there has been constant activity in the Commercial Property Market. Broadlands Commercial Property Agents have been particularly active and report on a number of substantial sales in and around Tunbridge Wells. We are constantly on the lookout for all types of commercial property to satisfy demand from in house clients and also from businesses looking to expand locally and for companies looking to locate in the area. Please contact us on 01892 512422 or shane.raggett@broadlands.co.uk
Acting on behalf of Utmost Life & Pensions we have successfully sold Utmost House 6 Vale Avenue Tunbridge Wells to a London based company. The 15,250sq.ft building has 54 car parking spaces and is to be refurbished and occupied. One floor of circa 5000sq.ft may become available to let in the near future.
We have been instructed to sell Kenwood House 1 Upper Grosvenor Road Tunbridge Wells. Freehold Retail/Office building with income of £127,490pa. There is planning consent for 8 residential apartments on the upper floors. Good central location. Offers invited in the region of £2.5m
Acting for Bishops UK Ltd we have sold Causeway House Chiddingstone Causeway Tonbridge. This Warehouse & Office complex totalled about 26,000sq.ft on a 1.2 acre site. The property has been purchased for redevelopment.
38 Property special Wednesday September 21 | 2022In association with sjmplanning.com 01892 516611 tunbridgewells@hamptons.co.uk THE E X P E R TS IN NE W H O M ES FOR FURTHER DETAILS, GET IN TOUCH A collection of 1,2 & 3 bedroom apartments ‘Ideally located for The Common, High Street, The Pantiles, and the main train station’ Prices from £310,000 Exquisite selection of grandeur apartments ‘Historic specification with a modern twist’ Prices from £525,000 9 Luxury 2/3 bedroom apartments ‘Luxury living and an incredible specification’ All Reserved 8 Individual, high specification apartments ‘Situated in beautiful communal grounds’ Prices from £495,000 10 Apartments set within a striking Victorian villa ‘Centrally located for all Tunbridge Wells amenities’ Prices from £430,000 5 Houses surrounded by fields and woodland ‘Quaint, tranquil and perfect for working from home’ All Reserved DOWNASH HOUSEMIRADOR BROADWATER HOUSETHE RETREAT BRADLEYS MILLSANDSTONE QUARRY ALL RESERVED ALL RESERVED
39Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialIn association with sjmplanning.com
Designer German & British Kitchens Projected Managed In House Showroom Tunbridge Wells Skilled, Dedicated Design & Installation from start to finish CALL US NOW FOR A FREE DESIGN SERVICE 01892 330 studio@ornatekitchens.co.ukwww.ornatekitchens.co.uk00017CrescentRoad,TunbridgeWells,Kent,TN12LU 30%SUMMERSALEoffkitchenunits CALLS Chris
HOMEOWNERS and landlords are being advised to start winter-proofing their properties to avoid waiting a week or more for in-demand professional tradespeople during the cold and wet months.
“Inadequate brickwork pointing can be a major issue and over time can allows water ingress, as well as increasing the chances of frost damage and damp – two issues that are far more prevalent during the winter months,” said the company.
Company CEO and founder Ettan Bazil said: “For many homeowners, winter-proofing our homes probably isn’t top of our to-do list, particularly with the cost-of-living crisis putting a strain on our household“However,finances.thereremains a high demand for
Damage
brickwork and roofing repairs.
“It costs just £50 to £60 on average per square metre to repoint your brickwork, but at present, it could take up to four weeks before you can bring in a bricky to carry out the work.
“Much like our brickwork, problems with our roofing rarely materialise until the cold and rain starts to batter our homes on a regular basis,” said the company, adding that while a roof inspection could cost around £250, repairs not requiring scaffolding can generally be done for around £170 for about five tiles.
It’s time to book seasonal fixes to avoid a winter wait for tradesman
“There are plenty of buyers out there, many with cash in their pension funds looking for opportunities,” said Mr Lawson.
Meanwhile, he said, demand for shops in the smaller Sussex towns is holding up well, although a greater variety of retail units is starting to come to the market.
Variety
business which is making it harder to be a successful retailer,” he acknowledged.
40 Property special Wednesday September 21 | 2022Sponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells Designer German & British Kitchens Projected Managed In House Showroom Tunbridge Wells Skilled, Dedicated Design & Installation from start to finish CALL US NOW FOR A FREE DESIGN SERVICE 01892 330 studio@ornatekitchens.co.ukwww.ornatekitchens.co.uk00017CrescentRoad,TunbridgeWells,Kent,TN12LU 30%SUMMERSALEoffkitchenunits
DEMAND for commercial property remains strong in the Southeast, driven by industrial and warehouse customers, according to a local property agent with long experience of the region’s market.
“Some retailers are finding that the cost of living increases are now starting to affect their
The industrial and warehouse sector dominates the commercial property market, with rental and freehold values currently surging due to a lack of supply throughout the Southeast, said Chris Lawson of Lawson Commercial.
Meanwhile, there can be a four-week wait for
“We hope the new Government will be listening to the calls for more business space to be made available in this area to help to create jobs for all the new housing that is being constructed.”
many skilled tradespeople at present and so in many cases, the waiting time to book a job can be rather substantial. This means that even those booking now may find they’re cutting it fine when it comes to having work completed before the weather turns for the worse.”
Meanwhile, fixing windows and doors can save considerable costs and prevent property damage, said the company, whose experience suggests a two-week wait for tradespeople.
“However, this also provides opportunities for those entering the market or wanting to expand.”Smallinvestment properties are another high-demand niche for Lawson Commercial, with a recently agreed let on 1 The Enterprise Centre in Uckfield creating a 6 per cent return.
Lawson Commercial is currently seeking sites.
www.lawsoncommercial.co.uk
“We are getting enquiries every day for industrial units in a variety of sizes but generally from 1,200 to 10,000 sq ft, and there is such a shortage of supply,” he said.
Property maintenance solution provider Help me Fix warned that waiting lists could be ‘rather substantial’ and recommended five seasonal ‘fixes’.Boilers, water pipes, windows and doors, brickwork and roofing should all be checked before the winter, the company said.
Commercial property demand remains strong and driven by industrial and warehouse sectors Lawson
There can be a one week wait for a boiler to be seen, or have water-pipes checked and insulated for the season, said the company.
41Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialIn association with sjmplanning.com Jack Charles Estate Agents Sales & Lettings Contact our friendly local team 01892 621 721 tunbridgewells@jackcharles.co.uk Making our business Your Property - Your Choice all about you
Introducing... THE VERY BEST MARKETING, FOR THE VERY BEST www.kings-estates.co.ukHOMES01892533367
The co-founder and CEO of GetAgent.co.uk, Colby Short, said: “The presence of a good school
Positive
Bloom Stays offer ‘green’-fingered tips to would-be holiday cottage owners in the Garden of England
Unlatch’s platform is used by developers and housebuilders to manage sales and aftercare for newbuild properties.
Altered
Company
“Section 21 is regarded a powerful contributor to homelessness in the UK, according to government data,” said the firm.
Developers had discretion to offer buyers money towards stamp duty, legal fees, furniture rating boosts house prices by over 14 per cent while house price growth accelerates
“We can’t wait to see more owners flourish here in the Garden of England,” they said. www.bloomstays.com
HOMES close to a school with an ‘outstanding’ Ofsted rating can be worth nearly £38,000 more than in postcodes where schools were rated as requiring improvement, according to analysis by an estate agent comparison site.
Now Nicky and Rowena are inviting anyone thinking of starting a new holiday let this autumn, or looking to find a fresh new lettings partner, to approach them.
BUYERS of newbuild properties can get an average of 14 per cent off the asking price if they negotiate and make use of all the potential incentives to reduce the price, said a property sales software company.
“There is also a promise of a more streamlined conflict resolution scheme which is to be welcomed.”
notice, some tenants, while being able to pay the rent, are unable to demonstrate sufficient funds upfront (savings and/or income) to pass references for a new home.
is an incredibly influential factor when it comes to local property market values and so it’s no surprise to see that postcodes home to a higher rated school also command a higher average house“Highprice.demand for housing within the catchment areas of these schools drives up property values as parents scramble to secure a spot for the children.“Asaresult, not only do homes command more, but those close to a top-rated school are also subject to a higher rate of house price growth due to a more competitive property market.”
Their houses sleep group sizes from two to 42 and many have hot tubs, swimming pools and games rooms, said the company.
‘The White Paper is only an outline of the intent’government’s
PROPOSED changes to Section 21 ‘no fault’ notices will reshape the rental market, but should not alarm and adversely affect all landlords, said a local property management firm.
Responding to government proposals to change letting market legislation, Helen Breeze Property Services said the proposals in any white paper were still subject to discussion.
Stressing the positive aspects of the proposals, the firm said the government and tenants’ organisations including Shelter and Generation Rent had been aiming to tackle the most acute problems related to tenants’ rights, and in response to a growing share of lifetime renters.
ADVICE Helen Breeze
Improvement
www.hbpm.co.uk
43Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialSponsored by Handelsbanken Tunbridge Wells
“It should be remembered that The White Paper is only an outline of the government’s intent and we anticipate that many of the more radical ones will be watered down or altered,” said Helen Breeze.
Nevertheless, all house prices had risen since the last school year.
newbuilds actually sell for 14 per cent or £63,753 less than their original asking price, showing the worth of negotiating rather than accepting the original asking price.
The company’s UK head Lee Martin said: “Very few of us are even aware that new-build house prices are up for reasonable negotiation and they’re not set in stone.”
“There will still be mechanisms to serve notice
Houses in postcodes where schools had been rated ‘good’ enjoyed a premium of 11.8 per cent over ‘requires improvement’ school areas.
Prices rose fastest in the ‘outstanding’ areas, at 13.3 per cent, said GetAgent.
“An imposed move is also a costly enterprise which further sets back already disadvantaged members of society,” they said.
‘Outstanding’ Ofsted
THE RISE of UK holidays, renewed interest in local food and drink, and eco-minded travellers have seen the Garden of England flourish as a holiday destination.Therangeof accommodation available in the county gives Kent-based businesses an advantage, said Bloom Stays, whose properties include Shepherd’s huts on Romney Marsh, ‘Grand Designs’ modernist beach houses, converted hop pickers’ cottages and Canterbury flats with cathedral views.
Newbuilds sell at average 14 per cent discount if buyers negotiate
Homes come to the market with an average price tag of £712,503 but actually sell for 20 per cent less, at £567,526.
on their tenant for valid reasons, including rent arrears, anti-social or criminal behaviour, or if the landlords need to sell or use the property as their or a family member’s home.”
Average
“Having been served the two months no-fault
“It should be noted that these incentives are offered either at the start or end of a development, or throughout if the sales are slow in order to kick start the momentum, so everyone wins.”“So, if you’re in the market for a newbuild, always be prepared to negotiate with the developer. The chances are that their asking prices are set at a level they are happy to reduce slightly for a quality buyer in a proceedable position who is bold enough to ask for a discount.”InLondon, the difference between newbuild asking prices and sale prices is even bigger.
GetAgent.co.uk analysed data on schools and house prices in England, and found an average premium of 14.5 per cent, or £37,447, in postcodes where schools had been rated ‘outstanding’.Thepremium was calculated on the basis of an average property price of £342,677.
No need for alarm over proposal to abolish Section 21 notices says property manager
Having started Bloom Stays in early 2020, owners Nicky Russon and Rowena Owen saw their business thrive through the pandemic by focusing on providing personalised hotel-style services – to both holiday-let owners and their guests.Theyoffer catering services, cocktail party boxes on demand, children’s party entertainers, yoga teachers and guided walking safaris of local nature spots.
Houses in ‘requires improvement’ school areas had increased 13 per cent in the last year, whereas price growth in ‘good’ Ofsted rating areas was 13.2 per cent.
According to the latest gov.uk UK House Price Index, the average new-build home in Britain sells for £394,699, a 36 per cent premium compared to the national average of £289,807. However, research by Unlatch showed that
packs and even mortgage fees or service charge fees, he added.
withNOWoffices in Tunbridge CrowboroughWells,& 01892 515188 01342 824824 01892 515188 01342 824824
45Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Property specialIn association with sjmplanning.com EngineeringBODIAMFormerWorksIdealStorageorManufacturing ESTATE AGENTS SURVEYORS For Good Honest Advice You Can Trust Uckfield (01825) 76 44 88 www.lawsoncommercial.co.uk Industrial / Warehouse With Yard Offices Offices 3 interconnected buildings 5,000 sq ft Large yard - 0.54 acres - 23,640 sq ft. IndustrialHEATHFIELDStationRoadEstateToLet Smart offices/storage/workshop - 3,000 sq ft. Secure yard approx. 4,000 sq ft. Rent £35,000 pa. TownUCKFIELDCentreLocationGradeWADHURSTStonegateIIListedFormerSchool Situated in 1.94 Acres UCKFIELD Bell Lane Close Town Centre Light airy space on 2 floors Overall 11,000 sq ft - will split 50 car spaces To Let or may sell Freehold Excellent space on 2 floors - 3,535 sq ft. 10 car spaces. Offers in region £740,000 Freehold 26 rooms - overall 7,059 sq ft. Large car park. Swimming pool, tennis court + landscaped grounds. Freehold £2.4 million Suite 1: 2,262 sq ft - rent £23,000 pa. Suite 2: 2,596 sq ft - rent £24,000 pa. Excellent specification - 2 floors. TheRINGMERBroyle Last Remaining Suites Good car parking
46 Property special Wednesday September 21 | 2022In association with sjmplanning.com •Permitted Development and Prior Notifications •Replacement and New Dwellings •Residential Conversions •Residnetial Extensions and Alterations •Rural Development and Diversification •Equestrian •Planning•Change•CommercialDevelopmentDevelopmentofUseandEnforcement Appeals •Stratigic Land enquiries@sjmplanning.comwww.sjmplanning.com CharteredConsultantsPlanning 01892 882228 Call us to find out how we can help you with your project: design@sjmprojects.com enquiries@sjmprojects.com enquiries@sjmsurveys.com In association with: Residential, Agricultural and Commercial Planning and Design Consultancy
@salomons_estate@salomons_venue@salomons.venue FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA Wednesdays & Fridays from 23rd November We’ve decked the halls, so spark that festive feeling with seasonal twists on traditional delights, all to be enjoyed in our stunning Victorian mansion house Festive Afternoon Tea £22.50pp with Prosecco £27.50pp Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea LET’S£12.50ppPARTY! We’re rolling out the red carpet this Christmas, step into the glitz of our Hollywood Glamour theme! For your work do or a festive night out with friends or family, our Christmas parties boast the best in yuletide spirit… THE£54ppBIGDAY 25th December 12 Noon - 4.00pm Join us at Salomons Estate for a four-course feast this Christmas! Tuck into all your festive favourites with your nearest and dearest in our cosy bistro packed full of yuletide spirit Four course carvery, coffee with mini mince pie & a chocolate gift £90pp Adults BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Saturday 24th December Enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet the big man himself and receive an extra early Christmas present! DINE£18.00ppWITHSANTA Sunday 11th December Santa makes his way round to hear all your stories and Christmas wish lists while you enjoy a delicious three course Sunday roast (includes a gift from Santa for every child) Adults £32.50pp Children SANTA’S£16.95ppGROTTO 18th – 23rd December Enjoy a magical moment with Santa this Christmas… £18 per child (adults free) Includes: A present from Santa Gingerbread Decorating Christmas Colouring Outdoor Christmas trail Child’s Hot Chocolate SCAN HERE FOR MENUS & MORE INFOChristmasatSalomonsEstate TO BOOK Call 01892 515152 or email reception@salomons-estate.com Booking essential for all Christmas events
TRAGEDY has struck twice in a matter of weeks here in Tonbridge. Our close-knit community has been rocked by the news that 20 year old Tom Waugh died as a result of a stabbing incident in Avebury Avenue which is the subject of an ongoing investigation and a trial.
On Thursday September 8 the news broke that The Queen had passed away having served as our sovereign for the past seventy years and for the vast majority of us the only monarch we have known. The passing of our Queen who had exceeded her potential in terms of duty, achievement and longevity and had given all she had in her 96 years, this a very different
Helping with the crowd was such an enjoyable experience. As the hours passed and day turned
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT:48 NEWS Weekly Comment Wednesday September 21 | 2022
kind of Followinggrief.the
Twice in the last few weeks I had met Her Majesty the Queen. I had enjoyed two charming conversations with her, and now suddenly her coffin was in front of me.
BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT Cllrs Mark Hood and Paul Stepto
In spite of the history of this great hall - built by William the Conqueror’s son nearly 1,000 years ago - that moment felt personal, not grand. My first thought on seeing the coffin carried in front of me was the sadness that we feel when anyone we have known dies.
Even in Monday’s funeral ceremonial, the parts that I found most affecting were those that seemed most personal. Like the lone piper at the end of the service playing a lament, ‘sleep, dearie, sleep’ as he slowly walked away and the sound became distant.
I was honoured to be chosen to meet Her Majesty’s coffin
The next few years will see a full and frank debate about our institutions
Greg Clark was first elected MP for Tunbridge Wells in 2005. He has held a number of positions in Government, including Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. He currently sits on the backbenches.
This archaic process harks back to the days when we spread urgent news using beacons and riders on horseback. Of course on our return to Tonbridge our own Mayor had in truth had the text emailed over to her and was ready to go and deliver the Proclamation impressively to the assembled crowd at Tonbridge Castle.
And even though her body was resting in that great barn of a hall, the prayers that were said were essentially the prayers that I have heard many times when people have been brought to rest before a funeral: remembering a life well lived, and looking forward to what lies ahead. The same sentiments we feel for anyone who had recently died.
As our means of communication have evolved from to parchment to photocopied paper and the internet so has the monarchy and so must ourNowdemocracy.isnotthe time to weigh up the merits of our various ceremonial and political institutions, for now we mourn a mother and grandmother of not only the Royal Family but a nation.Thenext few years will see a full and frank debate about all of our institutions but now we mourn and our thoughts are with those who knew the Queen best, and to the friends and family of Tom Waugh.
into night, I got talking to many people queuing – including, as may be expected, plenty from here in Tunbridge Wells.
Mark Hood The Green Party in Tonbridge & Malling and Tunbridge Wells
incongruous that the High Sheriff, and Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Lady Colgrain, handed representatives from each district and borough their own copies of the Proclamation to take back their towns for ceremonies later in the day and that later still the ceremony would be repeated in parishes across Kent.
Proclamation of the new King in London on Saturday September 10, Paul Stepto and I attended the County Proclamation as Kent County Councillors for Tonbridge on Sunday. The Proclamation is a strange, joyful interlude within the period of national mourning and in the heart of modern Maidstone it seemed
Mark Hood is a Green Party Borough and County Councillor, representing Tonbridge. He is a founder member of Keep River Lawn Green, and campaigned to save the Barden Boatyard and River Lawn from development. He is also one of the organisers of the Tonbridge Calling festival
Personal
Crowd
People of all ages and walks of life and all parts of the country – and indeed the world –were part of the queue. But they all shared a common motivation for being there. They wanted it to be personal – to convey their thanks to the Queen. Thanks for her life of personal service; for the honour and dignity with which she has conducted herself; for her encouragement when we needed it; for her kindness and willingness – though an instinctively reserved and unshowy person – to put herself forward to bring pleasure to others. They weren’t queuing to marvel at the
Before Monday’s funeral I spent some time acting as a volunteer marshal on the South Bank of the Thames, helping look after the long queue of people waiting many hours to file past in Westminster Hall and pay their own respects to Her Majesty the Queen.
Greg Clark Conservative MP for Tunbridge Wells
To lose such a young man in such a senseless attack is hard to comprehend but all agencies must do everything we can to ensure that young people are educated about the consequences of leaving home with a knife and the ramifications that can have on multiple families now dealing
‘We must work harder to eradicate knife crime from the streets of Kent where it continues to be a problem’significant
The Queen’s love of Scotland was clear throughout the events of the last week. Perhaps it was because that was so evident, and the Queen’s qualities as person so obvious, that Robert Burns’ great poem kept coming to my mind: ‘A Man’s a Man for A’ That’. Because for all the majesty of the monarchy, for all of the spectacular ceremony and pomp that was on display to the world and executed so perfectly, for all of the importance of this major moment in history, the outpouring of love and respect for Her Majesty the Queen over these last ten days has been gratitude and admiration for how she, as a person, lived her life and in doing touched us all.
with the fall out. A tragedy for all concerned. We must work harder to eradicate knife crime from the streets of Kent where it continues to be a significant problem. Just down the road Maidstone has secured a visit by the Knife Angel work of art which has been created using thousands of blades handed in through amnesties across the country, we hope to bring that moving piece to Tonbridge in future.
spectacle of the catafalque and the crown, the splendour of the uniformed guards or the vastness of the Norman hall. They were there for a moment of connection between themselves and the Queen. Looking at the live TV footage of the people in Westminster Hall at those moments you could see from the gestures and demeanour just how personal this was to everyone who was there.
WE HAVE experienced a week we will never forget. Monday’s funeral for Her Majesty the Queen was a day of such extraordinary spectacles – the Crown being paraded through the streets of London on top of her coffin, wrapped in the Royal Standard and the carriage pulled by scores of sailors, is just one of many images that we will remember for the rest of our lives.For all the pageantry and the grandeur, it has been the personal, sometimes intimate, aspects of the last week that have made such a deep impression on me.
I was so honoured to be chosen to be one of the people of who were asked to meet Her Majesty’s coffin as it was carried into Westminster Hall for her lying-in-state.
This week is Recycle Week. Running until September 25, the British Heart Foundation (BHF) is encouraging everyone to support its Declutter campaign by having a good clear out and donating good quality preloved items to theWe’reBHF.all pretty good at separating our household rubbish - and donating preloved goods to charity shops should be just as routine.It’sareally easy and convenient way to give a new life to something you no longer want or need.You can drop your donations into any of the BHF’s 700 shops and stores, post your items to us using our free downloadable label, or for bigger items like furniture, you can book a free collection.Inayear, the BHF saves over 57,000 tonnes of goods from going to waste, including 103,000 sofas and 13,000 items of preloved clothes. We can all do a little more to help make a difference.Andbydonating your preloved items to the BHF, you’re also helping make a difference to those living with heart and circulatory diseases. Every day, heart and circulatory diseases cause 460 deaths in the UK and currently around 7.6m people in the county are living withFromthem.books to beds, footwear to fridges - your unwanted items help fund our life saving research.Fordecluttering tips, book a collection or to find out more about the campaign, visit bhf.org. uk/declutter
As Keir Starmer said, it is a political choice. Do you help pay for the energy crisis by taking back – relatively pain free – the billions of pounds of excess profits unexpectedly made by energy companies in the form of a windfall tax?
John NoTunbridgePearceWellswindfalltaxis
Calverley’s war on ‘woke’
Disgust at panic buying
Commencing with a recent public political declaration to ‘hold the developers’ feet to the fire’ immediately puts negotiation parties onto a potential conflict.
I’m also puzzled because two young women of my acquaintance recently gave birth at the unit and, while they were full of praise for their treatment and the staff, made no complaint or even mention of politically-correct shenanigans.Hasyoureditorial team ever asked Calverley to consult a dictionary before he liberally peppers the word around his column? The OED defines ‘woke’ as, ‘alert to racial or social discrimination and injustice’, which I don’t find
timeslocalnews.co.ukFOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT: Letters NEWS 49Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Where music matters Musical BrittensInstrumentSheetinstrumentsmusicrentalsServicing&repairsMusicSchool www.brittensmusic.co.ukTel:(01892)526659@brittensmusic
David BritishRomanHeartFoundation
With supermarkets closed on Monday for the Queen’s funeral, for the first time in well over 10 years I had to do my weekly shop on Sunday, at one of the main supermarkets.
We have been helping local clubs and organisations to link up with their counterparts inTheWiesbaden.TwinTowns Horse-Riding Competition between Tunbridge Wells, Wiesbaden,
Such initiatives would meet many of the same aims as our Association, but we should not hold our breath.
PM Truss has made her decision. She is against tax rises but she is quite happy to saddle all of us, our children and grandchildren with a future tax bill to be paid off on what used to be called the ‘Never, Never’. Good start Liz!
Assuming that it may have been a one off at a popular location I checked with friends and family in different parts of the country and they all said the same thing.
“You’ve been overly eager about a new twin town...”
There are plenty of items that could be negotiated in good faith. However, if the developer only sees downside, then the natural course will be to dig in and minimise and concession.Hopefully a good negotiator will come forward and save the situation for the benefit of the Council, the developer, those pension funds backing AXA (that have entrusted their future livelihood in them), and most important –Royal Tunbridge Wells. I hope for the best; and that more conciliatory negotiations are going on behind the scenes!
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 Dear sir
Chemnitz and Ljubljana is organised independently from our Association, but has our full support.
Even the checkout lady said it was worse than the Christmas rush; I have never encountered such bedlam before.
They too would take time to translate from aspiration into reality.
It potentially achieves a stand-off between the parties. It achieves nothing except political posturing – ‘I am the tough guy here’ but leaves the potential result of nothing getting done.
views or comments on what’s going on
This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your in our part of the world. We like to hear
The latest crime scene is the maternity unit at Pembury Hospital but, frustratingly, Calverley doesn’t say how he unearthed evidence of the wokery – did he perhaps slip in disguised as a midwife or an expectant mother?
If the organisers of the competition have aspirations to forge links with other horseriding groups on the European mainland, we would be delighted to provide whatever assistance we can.
unreasonable.IdoubtthatCalverley believes we should ignore discrimination and injustice but could his personal definition of ‘woke’ be something like: ‘stuff that annoys old blokes who spend too long at the pub’?
Or do you load up the nation’s already
Tunbridge Wells is very proud of its formal twinning status with the city of Wiesbaden in Germany. Our links go back over 60 years.
a poor start
Martin Betts
For several decades, TWTFA has acted as an intermediary between our two towns.
Given it’s just for the one day, one must question if we are in such a crisis as the various commentators state? Personally, I felt disgusted.
Heart foundation needs your clutter
Cllr Paul TonbridgeSteptoandMalling Green Party
Professor Michael Holman (abridged) Tunbridge Wells Twinning and Friendship Association
SAYS...PEPPYCARTOONBYPEPPY:(FollowheronTwitter@Peppyscott)
We currently have no ambitions to seek new twinning partners but do have plans for a wide variety of joint cultural and sporting activities with Wiesbaden, our one and only twin town (Wiesbaden is twinned with 18 towns worldwide).
As President of the Tunbridge Wells Twinning & Friendship Association (TWTFA), I would like to rein in false hopes and bring your readers carefully down to earth.
And another thing…
groaning credit card by another £120 plus billion to be paid back by future generations?
HOW encouraging to read that a new twinning is being planned for Tunbridge Wells! (September 7: ‘Potential new twinning for town following success of its European horse-riding contest’).
I fear, however, that your correspondent is overenthusiastically jumping ahead of both horse riders and the town.
What I saw was a shopping frenzy with people clearing shelves of fruit, veg, dairy, bakery, as though we were expecting a biblical famine. The most telling was the volume of alcohol people were purchasing and at checkout paying £200 to £300 pounds.
David FormerScottDeputy Leader, TWBC
Your self-confessed bar-fly Calverley has treated readers to yet another rant about things ‘woke’ [September 7].
Chair Tunbridge Wells Labour Party
How not to negotiate – The Cinema site It is something most people understand, negotiations can be positive for both parties. However, get into a winner takes all situation (zero-sum game) and negotiations are likely to fail, or never really start. This appears to be the case with the cinema site.
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Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Life &Times ARTS • BOOKS • GOING OUT • FOOD • EVENTS • ANTIQUES • TRAVEL • PROPERTY • LIVE MUSIC and MORE... Arts P55 Music Matters P62 Food – P58 A look at a new artistic space We meet the co-founders of Knot Works P52
It is a creative cultural organisation run by us three friends: Holly Jean Crosbie, Samuel Wheeler and Edward Liddle. We host workshops run by artists, including drawing, pottery, sewing and printmaking. We programme exhibtions featuring contemporary artists and makers whose work we believe should be seen and experienced by a wider audience. We currently also host two resident artists at our Knot Works studio, which is based in Southborough, as part of our ambition to support and nurture artists in their professional development.
When did it launch and how are things going so far?
We launched in the Summer of 2021 and hosted our first series of workshops using Ed’s art studio in Southborough as our base. We wanted people to be able to experience workshops with professional artists, learning from and being inspired by their expertise. At the same time we
SEP 21 & 22 · 7:30pm · +£16+SEP 21 & 22 · 7:30pm · +£16+ COMEDY · THEATRE · FAMILY EVENTS · CINEMA · FOOD · GALLERY · MUSIC BOX OFFICE: 01892 678678 ·TRINITYTHEATRE.NET· 29 Sep · 7:30pm · £15+29 Sep · 7:30pm · £15+ “It’s been wonderful to welcome people to Knot Works, make things together and platform the work of artists” Knot Works is a creative cultural organisation run by three friends – Holly Jean Crosbie, Samuel Wheeler and Edward Liddle – and based in Southborough. Here, the trio tell Eileen Leahy more about their creative venture which launched in the summer of 2021…
CREATIVE HUB Knot Works on London Road
What kinds of offerings do you provide apart from exhibitions?
CrosbieHollyPicture:
52 Wednesday September 21 | 2022Arts
Our vision for Knot Works is ambitious, and this is just the start. Alongside our programme of exhibitions, workshops and studio time at our space, we also regularly host what we call ‘Work in Progress’ evenings. These take place at our space at 64 London Road and form an important part of what we want to develop at Knot
arts
launched Knot Works with an inaugural exhibition which featured works from our own network of local artist and design collaborators.Ayearlaterwe were so pleased to find our current permanent premises in Southborough, at 64 London Road. The response to opening our space in Southborough has been really positive. We’ve already run pottery studio evenings and life-drawing classes as well as an exhibition of photography by Kate Sims. It’s been wonderful to welcome people to the space to make things together and to platform the work of artists, whether that’s through exhibitions or workshops.
So guys, let’s start with you telling us in essence what Knot Works is all about?
Our Instagram feed is also full of pictures of past workshops and exhibitions so please follow us to see what you could get involved with and to be the first to know about new events and announcements! @knotworks_
What will be your next show?
As Knot Works boasts a ‘shop front’ do you receive a lot of impromptu visitors?
CrosbieHollyPicture:Picture:KateSims
Excitingly we have just launched our autumn programme of workshops. Our very popular life drawing evenings ‘Nudey Tuesdays’ will be returning alongside our pottery studio evenings. The pottery studio evenings are great for anyone
Together we draw on each of our personal experiences and run the organisation collaboratively. We often change roles and at various times and can all be found putting together an exhibition, or prepping for an upcoming workshop as well as teaching workshops.Weeachhave other jobs that we maintain alongside running Knot Works. Holly is an architect and runs her own architecture and attire practice as well as teaching Architecture at
with some experience of making pottery, as they offer access to our pottery studio and equipment.Forthosewith no prior experience of pottery we also have upcoming ‘master class’ workshops which offer the opportunity to get in depth tuition about a particular pottery technique (such as coil building or slab building). These are a great introduction and are taught by Jean Crosbie who has over 25 years of ceramic experience.
Our next exhibition will be in November and will focus on ceramics, featuring the work of Jean Crosbie and Holly Crosbie. We’ve also got a winter pop-up shop that will take place in the run-up to Christmas and will feature a selection of objects chosen by us which will make wonderful Christmas gifts.
53Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Arts
How do you juggle your day jobs with running Knot Works?
What are the benefits of running this project as a trio?
We’re all quite busy, but all of our other work feeds directly into Knot Works. Cultural activity is very much like an eco-system with lots of different influences feeding into and supporting one another. We’re all really enjoy working on our various projects and believe it helps to shape and inform our work at Knot Works.
ARTISTS (L-R) Edward Liddle, Holly Jean Crosbie and Samuel Wheeler
And if people want to find out more about Knot Works what should they do?
the University of Brighton and London Metropolitan University. Sam is an architect and is currently working on several large-scale projects in London. While Ed works at The Amelia as their Exhibitions Officer and continues to make his own artwork.
Works. Professional development for those working or hoping to work in the cultural industries can be really hard and expensive at times. The free ‘Work in Progress’ evenings are a chance for people to bring along something that they are working on to get some feedback from other creative people. When we all graduated from art school we really missed the nurturing environment that they create, so the ‘Work in Progress’ evenings are a way in which we are trying to nurture artists, makers and creatives who are looking for a supportive network to help them develop their work.
What exhibitions and workshops do you have coming up in the near future?
SimsKatePicture:
CrosbieHollyPicture:
We’ve got lots of exciting things planned for the future and we would encourage everyone to sign up to our Knot Works mailing list (You can find this at the bottom of the page on our website at knotworks.co.uk).
MAKER Holly Jean Crosbie at work
We are so excited about being located here. We’ve had some great conversations with people who have been passing by and who have been intrigued to hear about what we’re up to and what plans we have for the future. Our high streets change, they need a variety of people doing different things. Some days Holly uses the front space of the building to cut and sew clothing. At other times there is pottery being made and at others there’ll be an exhibtion. Knot Works is a lively and ever-changing space, so there’s always something different to see.
CrosbieHollyPicture:
SimsKatePicture:
Published in hardback by Jonathan Cape, priced £20 (ebook £9.99)
And so begins the dual narrative that traces the main childhoodtumultuouscharacter’slifefromthroughto the present day. Bookended by the Cuban Missile Crisis and the coronavirus pandemic, McEwan grapples with familiar themes – lost youth, lost love, the mishaps and misunderstandings that shape our lives – but on a grander scale. At nearly 500 pages, it’s not a short book, and it feels a lot like an autobiography (some aspects of it are loosely based on McEwan’s life). Readers may find themselves rushing through some of the early chapters, but the beautiful prose and twisting plot, flitting between past and present, will soon have them engrossed. Magnificent and moving, Lessons is up there with McEwan’s greatest works.
9/10
Review by Prudence Wade
Published in hardback by hardback by Viking, priced £20
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman
Literary legend Ian McEwan’s latest novel ‘Lessons’ is among the books reviewed this week, along with Pointless star Richard Osman’s latest edition of the Thursday Murder Club: ‘The Bullet That Missed’….
tryingThisembroiledagainfriendswithandElizabeth,We’rethecontinuationwelcomeofstoryline.backwithJoyce,RonIbrahim–alongsomeoftheirold–astheyoncefindthemselvesintrouble.time,thegangaretosolveadecades-
Amid her bleak prophecy of a planet rendered largely unliveable by climate change before the end of the century, Gaia Vince offers a radical outlook that insists a solution is not a lost cause.
Review by Katie Wright
Nomad Century paints an apocalyptic vision of what she calls the ‘Four Horsemen of the Anthropocene’ – fire,
thecompletelyVincefractionTomigrationofandsouthernhugeflooddroughtheat,and–consumingswathesofthehemisphereforcinghundredsmillionsonamassnorthwards.facilitateevenaofthatshift,sayswemustreevaluaterhetoricaroundmigration
Published in hardback by by Allen Lane, priced £20
and its rigid relationship with national identities and borders. She concludes not by doling blame, but by calling for real action now to combat the effects of our over-heating world. By doing so in such an engaging and constructive manner, Vince leaves the reader with more than a few sparks of hope.
Auctioneers
Since 1929 Experts in the Many Parts of Asian Art Our dedicated Asian Works of Art department values and sells porcelain, ivories, jades, enamels and more. For a free appraisal call our expert valuer Dan Bray on 01273 472 503 or send an email to dan@gorringes.co.uk Clockwise from top: A pair of fine Japanese cloisonné enamel vases – £6,500 + fees. A Chinese pale celadon jade ‘magnolia’ cup – £3,600 + fees. A Chinese blue and white ‘foreign ambassadors’ bowl – £2,600 + fees. A Chinese polished bronze tripod censer – £9,000 + fees. A Chinese Transitional wucai ‘boys’ vase and cover – £3,200 + fees. Visit our Asian Works of Art department at gorringes.co.uk
Times books editor Victoria Roberts picks three books to read this week
8/10
7/10
In the spring of 1986, Roland Baines’ wife vanishes and suspicion falls on the husband she left behind.
54 Books Wednesday September 21 | 2022
Lessons by Ian McEwan
old murder case – and Elizabeth’s past comes back to haunt her. While The Bullet That Missed doesn’t really give readers anything new, Osman is onto a winning formula, and fans will be delighted by the familiar warmth of the characters and setting.
Nomad Century: How To Survive The Climate Upheaval by Gaia Vince
Review by Alan Jones
If you’re late to the incredible hype surrounding Richard Osman’s blockbuster series The Thursday Murder Club, don’t make the mistake of thinking you can just pick things up with the third instalment. Any newbie reading The Bullet That Missed will be left completely in the dark, as Osman makes no attempt to introduce the characters – he just dives straight into the action. But for fans of the series, it will be a
Flashing back nearly three decades, 11-year-old Roland is sent from Libya to attend boarding school in England, where he starts taking piano lessons from a teacher whose interest in her prodigious student goes beyond the didactic.
Contemporary work from composers such as Rebecca Saunders and Nigel Osborne will also be Worldpresented.premièreperformances are also set to take place, including Deborah Pritchard’s Couleurs Celestes for Violin and Cello, and new pieces from composer Howard Skempton, who is celebrating his 75th birthdaySkemptonyear.has not featured in the festival before but Kemp has worked with him in the past, and Music@Malling’s Scratch Orchestra is a reference to the revolutionary model Skempton set up in 1969 – a vehicle for bringing young people of all ages and abilities together to make music alongside professionalMusic@Mallingmusicians.isonSeptember 21 to October 2. Season does not include concerts at Ightham Mote and All Saints’ Church, Tudeley. musicatmalling.com
SPA VALLEY MINIATURE RAILWAY
Meanwhile, Foxymop bring Hall of Famers Pearl Jam to the bill at The Forum this Saturday at 7:30pm. Age 16 and older unless accompanied by an adult.
TOM KEMP The artistic director of Music
More comedy in The Forum Basement at the Sussex Arms this Sunday, as the Dark Horse presents Perrier nominee Rich Wilson as MC. The show starts at 7:30pm, but there is a live podcast recording at 6pm.
ADÈLE THÉVENEAU
at all in the gentle adventure story of Baby Bear, also at Trinity Theatre. Baby Bear loves her cocooning cave, but curiosity draws her outside to discover the beauty of nature, before coming home safe and sound. Two versions of the production have been produced – one designed to stimulate active toddlers 18 months to three years (10am and 3pm showings), while there’s a calmer version for newborns to 18 months (11:30am and 1:30pm). September 23.
The festival also supports teachers to continue bringing music into schools, by offering Continuing Professional Development in partnership with Kent Music and Sound and Music.
LOTS OF bang for your buck this Saturday (September 24) at 2pm in the Assembly Hall, with the Ministry of Science live show ‘Science Saved the World’. How has science shaped the modern world we live in? How can all of us change our world for the There’sbetter?anticipation
Music from the ages… for all ages
55Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Books
It’s a weekend for literally all sizes at the Spa Valley Railway, as the Model Railway event takes place over Saturday and Sunday, with model layouts of all sizes and rides in the Queen Mary brake van. Visit the model layouts at Tunbridge Wells West station at 10am-5pm. spavalleyrailway. co.uk
In addition, under 25s benefit from free tickets.The2022 festival has forged new links with Ightham Mote, which will host a number of talks and concerts, including ‘England Under the Tudors’, which will include choral music by Sir William Haute, a 15th century composer and former owner of the property.
theDriftersveteransRollhearco.ukTicketsource.TicketsPlummer.Anthony£15fromAchancetoRockandHallofFameTheplayat HallAssembly At‘Saturdayhits1953.playingtheyperforminghistorygrouprunning22).nighttomorrow(SeptemberThelongest-singinginpopstilllive,havebeensinceExpectincludingNighttheMovies’,
Artistic director of the festival Tom Kemp said the organisers ‘value education and outreach as highly as any performances’, adding that the festival had added a range of workshops to include younger people in the festivities.Workshops include ‘Let’s Get Creative’, a series of 12 live and online interactive shows for preschoolers and parents.
Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre are on tour with their production of the vicious struggle surrounding the downfall of Julius Caesar. Festival Theatre at Hever Castle, 7:30m tonight (September 21) and 2pm tomorrow (September 22).
of an even bigger bang in the two-night run of The Gunpowder Plot on September 21-22 at Trinity Theatre. An infamous moment in British history comes to life in a new production for the whole family. Showings at
The music of Bob Marley is the focus of ‘Legend’ at the Assembly Hall this Friday (September 23) at 7:30pm. Achieve a natural high with ‘Could You Be Loved’, ‘Is This Love’, ‘One Love’, ‘No Woman No Cry’, ‘Three Little Birds’, ‘Jammin’’, ‘Buffalo Soldier’, ‘Stir It Up’, ‘Get Up Stand Up’, ‘Exodus’, ‘Waiting in Vain’, ‘Satisfy My Soul’, ‘Iron Lion Zion’, ‘I Shot the Sheriff’ and more.
THE return of the Music@Malling festival brings music old and new to a diverse audience, as the organisers continue striving to reach younger people.
For those seeking a jazzier alternative, Callum Au will be returning to Music@ Malling, amidst an evening of improvisation and classic hits from the American Song Book at St.Mary’s Church, West Malling.
@ Malling the festival that will inlcude ‘world première performances’
Next Tuesday (September 27) sees the start of a two-night run by Ricky Gervais at The Assembly Hall Theatre, as the comedian road-tests ‘work in progress’ for his planned ‘Armageddon’ show. In an indication of how popular the show is expected to be, the theatre has imposed a limit of six tickets per person and per household, and has reserved the right to request identification to ensure that the ticket purchaser attends. Age 18 and older recommendation.
JULIUS CEASAR
‘Under the Board Walk’, ‘Save the Last Dance for Me’, ‘Stand By Me’ and more.
7:30pm.Nobangs
THIS SATURDAY (September 24), one of the cello finalists of the Tunbridge Wells International Music Competition 2022, Adèle Théveneau, cello, will play Schubert, Debussy and Rachmaninov with the patron of the competitition, Charles Wiffen on piano. At the parish church of King Charles the Martyr, Tunbridge Wells, at 7pm. In memory of
BEN POOLE YONGE
SATURDAY 24/09 Foxymop – a celebration of Pearl Jam
TN1 BAR & KITCHEN, MONSON ROAD
FRIDAY 30/09 Calling Planet Earth
THURSDAY 22/09 Luna Octett
SATURDAY 08/10 The Acoustic Sessions – Mark Morris & Mike Wilton (7pm)
WEDNESDAY 21/09 Jam Session all welcome
07/10 Marie White + The Paul Dunton Orchestra THE FORUM BASEMENT AT THE SUSSEX ARMS All information and tickets available at twforum.co.uk SATURDAY 24/09 MOFGY + support from ‘Lunch’ SATURDAY 01/10 Blue Stragglers Local music promotor Paul Dunton picks his top must-see acts over the next three weeks…. If you are a local to Tunbridge Wells venue that hosts regular live music or even if it’s a one-off event, concert or festival, contact Paul at least six weeks in advance of your event date with the following details: Name and address of Venue Date and time of event Name of event and name of act(s) Ticket link and/or website (please state if free entry) 1 x high resolution (300 dpi) landscape jpeg (performer only, no Pleaseposters)state photo credit if required. paul@paulduntonandguests.com BLUES BROTHERS LITTLE BROTHER
SUNDAY 25/09 Shades of Miles – Live at the Orangery – Tribute to Miles Davis by renowned trumpeter Paul Higgs
THURSDAY 06/10 Ben Poole
THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM Event information and tickets at twforum.co.uk
WEDNESDAY 05/10 Jam Session all welcome
THE ROYAL OAK PUB, PROSPECT ROAD
EVEN FLOW CAFÉ, ST JOHN’S ROAD
SUNDAY 02/10 RTWSO: Featuring pianist Martin James Bartlett Programme: Prokofiev, Mozart, Tchaikovsky Conductor: Roderick Dunk (3pm)
THEATRE, CHURCH ROAD All event information and tickets available at trinitytheatre.net FRIDAY 30/09 Soul Kinda Wonderful – The Four Tops and The Temptations tribute
All event information and bookings thegreenduckemporium.com/eventsat
SATURDAY 01/10 Wrong Jovi
TRINITY
Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm
MARK
THURSDAY 06/10 Andreas Jensen
SATURDAY 01/10 Jennifer Lee Ridley
Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm
SATURDAY 08/10 Bottomless Brunch with live music (12pm-3.30pm)
All event information and tickets available assemblyhalltheatre.co.ukfrom
FRIDAY 23/09 Legend of Bob Marley
All event information and tickets available tunbridgewellsyouth.comat
SATURDAY 24/09 Live band tbc FRIDAY 07/10 The Harveys + Barry McCormack
SATURDAY 01/10 Huey Morgan’s NYC Block Party – Hip Hop, Soul, Funk, Disco
FRIDAY 07/10 The Smyths: Strangeways, here we come (35th anniversary show)
THURSDAY 29/09 Almost The BeeGees
WEDNESDAY 28/09 Jam Session all welcome
MARIE WHITE
THE GUN & SPITROAST INN, HORSMONDEN
WEDNESDAY 12/10 Jam Session all welcome guide
in concert
TUESDAY 04/10 Abbamania
THE RIDGEMONT SOUTHBOROUGHPAVILION,
Doors 7.15pm, all event information and ticket entry available from thegreylady.co.uk
SATURDAY 08/10 Buzzcocks WEDNESDAY 12/10 Lottery Winners
SATURDAY 08/10 Joe Ackerley
TW JAZZ CLUB AT THE MASONIC HALL, ST JOHN’S ROAD
Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm
FRIDAY 07/10 Laura & Co Jazz Quartet
21 to October 11
All event information and tickets available at uk/whats-on/chiddingstonecastle.org.
Open all day, free entry, music from 5pm till 7pm
THURSDAY 29/09 Julian Burdoch
JAZZ ON THE PANTILES, THE PANTILES BANDSTAND
THE GEORGE & DRAGON, SPELDHURST
7.30pm – 10pm reservation required (entrance
FRIDAY 23/09 The Masqueraders Duo
THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE, CRESCENT ROAD
THE RED LION PUB, RUSTHALL
SATURDAY 01/10 Chris Harper
FRIDAY 07/10 Doolally Tap
FRIDAY 30/09 Carradine’s Cockney Sing-a-long
SATURDAY 24/09 John Whitehorn of The Varlies
Open all day free entry all event information at evenflowuk.com
THURSDAY 29/09 Open Mic Night (all welcome)
THURSDAY 22/09 The Drifters
56 Gig Guide Wednesday September 21 | 2022
SAINT JOHN’S YARD, (ST JOHN’S ROAD)
FRIDAY
gigSeptember
FRIDAY 07/10 Owen Donavan
THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE, THE PANTILES
THE GREEN DUCK EMPORIUM, 53 GROSVENOR ROAD
THURSDAY 06/10 TWUNT Ukulele Jam session
THURSDAY 22/09 Guy Watson
SATURDAY 08/10 The Masqueraders Duo
All information and tickets available at twjazzclub.co.uk
SATURDAY 24/09 Cal White
The Hearthside Sessions: SATURDAY 24/09 Jez Harley
TheParticipating£5pp).restaurants:TunbridgeWellsHotel, The Kirthon, La Casa Vecchia
SUNDAY 25/09 Beyond The Barricade
FRIDAY 30/09 The Masqueraders Duo
CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE, CHIDDINGSTONE
MORRIS
FRANCES
Open all day free entry music from 8.30pm
THURSDAY 29/09 Blues Brothers Little Brother
Open all day, free entry, booking advised: tn1barkitchen.co.uk
FRIDAY 30/09 The Grey Lady Sessions: Frances Yonge + Jennifer Lee Ridley
2021 Château Thieuley, Bordeaux Clairet, France (£9.95, The Wine Society)
you’re drinking a glass of red wine if you close your eyes. There’s a lot of uncomplicated pleasure here. A great food style, it’s the perfect versatile bottle to drink with fish, salads or a vegetable tagine. An end-of-season barbecue is calling.
4 Celebrate the end of summer with Vins de Provence rosé!
With any luck, we still have a few more final days of warm summer weather to look forward to. So why not celebrate summer’s end this week – and the beginning of autumn – with a gorgeous glass of Vins de Provence rosé? This pale-pink vinous gem is textbook stuff and made from grenache, cinsault, syrah and rolle by the Faulkner family in the heart of Provence. It’s silky and dry, with wisps of Mediterranean herbs, grapefruit, white nectarines, sandalwood and tangy, refreshing citrus and hibiscus streaks. A gleamingly good aperitif. Makes me long for sushi, a barbecued leg of lamb, fish carpaccio or a niçoise salad. Delicate but also persistent. A beautifully crafted stylish rosé and marvellous end-of-summer treat. Au revoir, summer…
You can follow James on Twitter @
Telephone: A FINE 57Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Food & Drink The Old Granary, Waterloo Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3JQ Telephone: 01580 715857 E-mail: enquiries@bentleyskent.com Visit us @ www.bentleysfineartauctioneers.co.uk AN IMPRESSIVE HALLMARKED SILVER CANDELABRA, SHEFFIELD 1978, 41CM HIGH, 68 OZS EST: £1400-£1800 A CARTIER SANTOS DIAMOND ENCRUSTED STAINLESS STEEL LADIES WRISTWATCH, MODEL 2319, AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT EST: £3000-£5000 A 19TH CENTURY BREMOND MUSIC BOX FEATURING SIX BELLS WITH BIRD STRIKERS & DRUM PLAYING 8AIRS, IN ROSEWOOD CASE EST: £800-£1200 PAIR OF ITALIAN INLAID CHESTS FROM MEROTTI OF MILAN, EACH 3’ 6” WIDE (107CM) EST: £300-£500 FRANCES MABEL HOLLAMS (18771963) – ‘HORSES & FOALS IN A FIELD’, SIGNED OIL ON BOARD, 35CM X 50CM EST: £500-£1000 19TH CENTURY CHINESE CANTON FAMILLE ROSE PORCELAIN BOWL, 30CM DIAMETER EST: £200-£300 A POST MEDIEVAL BRASS LATTEN SPOON WITH SEAL TOP, C. 1550/1650, 14.5CM EST: £200-£300 A ROLEX 14CT GOLD OYSTER PERPETUAL DATE WITHOFFICIALLYCHRONOMETERSUPERLATIVECERTIFIEDGENTSWRISTWATCH,18CTGOLDSTRAP,WITHORIGINALPURCHASERECEIPTDATED1974EST:£4000-£6000 A SHELLEY ART DECO TEA SET IN THE ‘BLUE BLOCK’ PATTERN BY ERIC SLATER EST: £900-£1200 BENTLEY ’S ANTIQUES & FINE ART AUCTIONEERS ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING SATURDAY 1ST OCTOBER 10AM (Please note earlier starting time 10am for Smalls & 11am for Furniture) PARKINGONDAYOF SALEIN CRANBROOK SCHOOL CAR PARK (OPPOSITE) COURTESYOF CRANBROOK SCHOOL Full Catalogue & Images Available Online Friday 23rd September Viewing: 29th September 9.30am – 5.30pm Friday 30th September 9.30am-5.30pm Saturday 1st October 9.00am-10.00am (10am Sale Starts)
Personally I think there is no reason not to drink it all year round but most like to reserve rosé for the summer months. With that in mind here are four cracking rosés that I have recently relished.
September, Co-op)
3 A sophisticated rosé from arguably Provence’s finest appellation
UMMER may well be practically over (autumn begins on Friday) but it’s not yet time to definitively say goodbye to a glass of tasty dry rosé wine.
2021 Domaine du Grand Cros, L’Esprit de Provence (£18.95, Swig)
2 A darker, autumnal, traditional Bordeaux rosé for red wine fans
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From La Sauve Majeure in the Gironde, Château Thieuley’s merlot-forward dark pink rosé (‘clairet’ formerly referred to a light red Bordeaux wine) is a delightful, lip-smacking end-of-summer swig. With fine-grained tannins and delectable flavours such as red berry fruits and a soupçon of liquorice, you might believe
From the small Provençal appellation of Bandol, this is a canny, unoaked blend of equal parts mourvèdre, cinsault and grenache. Its delicately fruited, gently herbaceous style is a mesmerising subtle mix of lavender, pine, rosemary and pink peppercorn pizzazz. I’m thinking salads and grilled/BBQ fish and meat (and it would go brilliantly with rare roast lamb). Await the crescendo! Remarkable length and driving persistence. Brilliant, classy value for money. Hard to put the glass down. On offer at Co-op until 27 September.
2020 Leftfield Rosé, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand (£7.99, down from £10.99, until 27 September, Waitrose)Enjoythis easy-swigging, crisp, red fruitedged merlot-dominant New Zealand pale pink wine, topped up with pinotage and arneis, as a crunchy aperitif or with seared salmon, fish, shellfish, pork chops and burgers. Works the mouth with racy acidity and an agreeable amount of texture. It has a flying finish and is rounded, delicious, energetic and dry – and also very well-priced. Get it whilst discounted 25% until 27 September. Lots to enjoy, and one for the non-Provence rosé imbibers playing at home this autumn. Great gear, especially at the promotional price.
2021 Château Barthès Bandol Rosé, Provence, France (£12 offer, down from £13, until 27
QuixoticWine Drink pink: the best rosé wines for summer’s end This week Times wine editor James Viner is here with four wonderful rosé choices for you to enjoy as we usher in the last of the summer wine… 1 2 4 3 The Old Granary, Waterloo Road, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 3JQ Telephone: 01580 715857 E-mail: enquiries@bentleyskent.com Visit us @ www.bentleysfineartauctioneers.co.uk A GOOD ANTIQUE CHINESE BRONZE FIGURE, INSCRIBED, 51CM HIGH EST: £500-£1000 & A JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD BRONZE ‘DRAGON’ VASE, 40CM HIGH EST: £400-£600 DAMIEN HIRST (BRITISH, B.1965) –‘SKULL’, SIGNED BLACK INK SKETCH WITH CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY, 30CM X 21CM EST: £600-£800 A 19TH CENTURY FRENCH ORMOLU & PORCELAIN MOUNTED CLOCK GARNITURE EST: £400-£600 A RARE MID CENTURY ERCOL BLOND-ELM WINDSOR LOVE SEAT EST: £400-£600A FINE & RARE COLLECTION OF ANTIQUE MUSIC BOXES SUPERB QUALITY MARQUETRY INLAID MULTI-BELL STRIKING 8DAY LONGCASE CLOCK WITH CELESTIAL ROLLING GLOBE MOVEMENT BY JOSEPH SWINNERTON EST: £2000-£4000 THREE EXCEPTIONAL WATERCOLOURS BY RALPH TODD (BRITISH, 1856-1932) A PAIR OF EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY WHITE GOLD DIAMOND DROP EARRINGS, APPROX 3.31CTS EST: £3500-£4000, A LARGE WHITE GOLD DIAMOND RING, APPROX 2.75CTS EST: £2500-£3000 & A LE VIAN WHITE GOLD, AQUAMARINE & DIAMOND RING, APPROX 1CT OF DIAMONDS EST: £800-£1200 (FROM A LARGE COLLECTION OF GOOD JEWELLERY IN THIS SALE) BENTLEY ANTIQUES & FINE ART AUCTIONEERS ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING ON-LINE LIVE BIDDING SATURDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 10AM (Please note earlier starting time 10am for Smalls & 11am for Furniture) COURTESYOF Full Catalogue & Images Available Online Friday 26th August Viewing: 1st September 9.30am – 5.30pm Friday 2nd September 9.30am-5.30pm Saturday 3rd September 9.00am-10.00am (10am Sale Starts) ‘FISHERMAN’S WIFE SAT AT HOME READING A LETTER’, 47CM X 31CM EST:£600-£800 ‘FISHERMAN’S WIFE ON THE QUAYSIDE WITH NETS & BASKETS, BOATS IN THE BACKGROUND’, 54CM X 37CM EST: £800-£1200 ‘THE END OF THE STORY’, 54CM X 77CM EST: £1000-£1500 Telephone: A FINE A PAIR EARRINGS,OFGOLDDIAMONDLEVIANWHITE1CTCOLLECTION ON-LINE BIDDING Viewing:
1 New Zealand bargain
Oh and by the way, if you want even darker pink wines head to Tavel, the specialist appellation of dry rosé wines just across the river from Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the southern Rhône. I can’t recommend Château d’Aqueria Tavel’s sapid grenache noir-forward deep-coloured 2021 rosé (always sensibly placed at the start of a flight of red wines) available from ace importer Thorman Hunt enough.Cheers to the end of summer! Try these…
But if you’re looking for further inspiration then the good news is that Produced in Kent has just put together a special collection of local products which reflect the tastes of the new season perfectly. If you’re not familiar with Produced in
drink&food
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‘These autumn products from Kent are a fantastic example of the incredible produce we have right here on our doorstep’
Produced in Kent, an organisation which champions the county’s finest producers and products, has curated a special autumnal collection showcasing some of the region’s most delicious and seasonal treats. Eileen Leahy discovers more…
58 Gig Guide Wednesday September 21 | 2022
EARN AN INCOME FROM YOUR SPARE ROOM
ith the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness now upon us it’s time to switch up our eating habits, swapping salads for soups and BBQs for hearty stews and generally embracing all that the autumn has to Comingoffer.into season right now are vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, pumpkins and sweet potatoes. Then there are fruits like plums, apples and cranberries – all of which make delicious crumbles, tarts and sauces which are just what’s needed at this time of the year as the temperature drops and the nights draw in.
It’s time to savour the tastes that our county has to offer for the new season
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This autumn collection has been put together by Produced in Kent, a trade member organisation working with independent Kent based producers. Find out more at producedinkent.co.uk or @producedinkent on Instagram
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At the most recent Taste of Kent awards ceremony, winners from the local area included the Devlin Brothers from The Small Holding in Kilndown, Cellar Head Brewing Company near Wadhurst and Kingcott Dairy in Staplehurst.
5 Wooden Spoon Stud Orange & Brandy ‘Mulled Wine Mix’ – Stir up a true taste of autumn courtesy of this joy inducing mix from a specialist preserving company which has supplied the Royal Palaces with its products for many years. All you need is hot water and an
application to vary the Premises Licence at Roddyburger, 12-14 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2PT has been made by RGCO Holdings Ltd A summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: Include OFF sales Vary the sale of alcohol to Mon to Sun – 09:00 to 23:00 Vary the opening hours to Mon to Sun – 09:00 to 23:00 Any person wishing to view details of an application can contact the licensing team on 01732 227004
1 Biddenden Monks Delight – This is a rich and delicious cider which can be enjoyed warm too. It’s created using the Barnes family’s traditional recipe, using a blend of Kent-grown culinary and dessert apples. £5.10, available from Biddenden Vineyard’s cellar door or online at biddendenvineyards.com
59Wednesday September 21 | 2022 Food & Drink
4 Goupie Free-From Trick or Treat Bags – Each bag contains a mix of white and 55% chocolate buttons. They are vegan and dairy-free and each bag contains 20 individual packs, packaged in compostable bags, so children (and adults!) can enjoy a more sustainable treat at Halloween. £6.50 each and are available from goupiechocolate.com
Licensing Act 2003
Any wishing Partnership, PO Box Argyle Sevenoaks,
Produced in Kent’s CEO, Floortje Hoette explains why the six products made the cut for this year’s special autumn collection: “These autumn products from Kent are a fantastic example of the incredible produce we have right here on our doorstep. We’ve found some of the best to share with you, from the innovative Trick or Treat Bags from Goupie, to the more traditional Strong Kentish Cider from Biddenden Vineyards, which draws on our heritage as a farming county. As the harvest season reminds us of our connection to the land, what better way to celebrate the county’s bounty than to enjoy some of these seasonal products.”
you’ll find Biddenden Monks Delight – a strong Kentish cider boasting notes of honey and spice, a luxury hamper from foodie emporium Macknade and Goupie goodie bags boasting some of their finest chocolate. There’s even some Romney Marsh nourishing hand soap to keep cracked skin at bay during the colder months!
BEE LINE
3 Romney Marsh Wools Natural Lanolin Wool Fat Hand Soap – A rich moisturising soap from Romney Marsh Wools. Lanolin is the naturallyoccurring fat in wool and boasts many benefits
Kent then in short it is an organisation which pulls together the finest producers, farmers, retailers, and hospitality businesses for a celebration of the best in the Garden of England.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
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It is also behind the successful Taste of Kent Awards – dubbed the ‘Food and Drink Oscars’ of our county. Now in their 18th year, the awards are dedicated to showcasing the tastiest produce the county has to offer, while shining a spotlight on the many hard-working businesses behind all our wonderful food, drink and hospitality hubs.
with an application.
offence is Unlimited.
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including the natural ability to nourish and keep skin smooth – therefore a must-have in the winter months! Prices start from £2 to £6 and the hand soap and other products are available to buy from romneymarshwools.co.uk
English Breakfast tea bag to conjure up this great tasting seasonal tea. Think of it as a hug in a mug! £6.95 per jar and available from thewoodenspoon.co.uk
2 Macknade Kentish Weekender Hamper – Including craft beers and English wine this is the ultimate luxury indulgent treat for your tastebuds. Focusing on each mealtime thanks to the fact it boasts breakfast goodies, delicious snacks and fresh bread and butter too. In short, all the essentials you’ll need for a feast! £80, from macknade.com
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Application for the variation of a Premises Licence
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Kent. TN13 1GP licensing@sevenoaks.gov.uk www.sevenoaks.gov.uk
to make representation about the proposals should make them in writing by 11th October 2022 to: Licensing
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KENTISH TREATS Macknade’s luxury hamper
6 Biddenden Special Mead – This is produced using methods from fermented fruit and honey, which is then further sweetened with honey to give a deep amber colour. Deliciously rich and aromatic, this is best served at room temperature as an accompaniment to cheese or fruitcake. £10.10 per bottle, available from Biddenden Vineyard’s cellar door or online at biddendenvineyards.com
WHAT’S ON THE MENU FOR AUTUMN:
TERRABLU HOMECARE staff and their families spent an amazing time together celebrating the company’s 20 years as a leading local home care provider, covering the Tunbridge wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks area.
Home care company celebrates 20 years with festival for staff and clients
Acts of kindness for elderly clients to mark company’s platinum milestone
Saturday afternoon saw Pembury Scout and Guide Hall transformed into a colourful festival, affectionately called Terra Fest, with live music, ice creams, cocktail making, face painting, a BBQ and campfire.
been a truly fabulous day spent with our wonderful team. It will be a day to remember.”
Many of the carers went beyond the aim of 20 minutes of kindness, tailoring their good deeds to their clients’ needs and interests. Over 560 minutes were given to clients by staff.
Emma Foard, Operations Support Manager, who has worked for TerraBlu for 15 years said, “I love my festivals so I thought organising our own would be the best way to celebrate! It has
The acts of kindness ranged from taking a
client out for lunch, staying with a client for added support at her Grandson’s wedding, gluing a much-loved bowl back together, to having a cup of tea whilst doing wordsearches and fixing the buttonhole of a much-loved cardigan.“We’veheard so many stories back from the team about how much our clients have appreciated that their carers wanted to donate a little extra for them. The extra time spent together in a more relaxed way has allowed our carers to find out more about their clients’ pasts and happy memories. The acts of kindness have been extremely beneficial and it’s wonderful to see and hear the uplifting effect it has had for both our clients and our carers,” says Netta Sceal, Deputy Care Manager.
“I am amazed that we have reached 20 years after such rollercoaster change in the social care sector over the last 20 years. I am so proud of the way our staff support our clients in their daily lives. It is not complicated what we do, but it does take a special person to do it well. Thank you to our clients who have borne with staff shortages that have ebbed and flowed over the years, who have made our carers feel valued and who have spread the word about our service to others in need,” commented Richard Gould, Managing Director.
“These acts of kindness have really created a lot of buzz amongst staff, and it’s been wonderful to see the positivity this has created for our clients. Our carers are dedicated in their work and have built many strong friendships with their clients, so it’s the little extras that really make a difference to enhance our clients’ lives,” explains Emma Foard, Operations Support Manager.
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Carers at TerraBlu Homecare volunteered acts of kindness for their clients to mark the company’s 20 years of helping the elderly in Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells to live their best possible lives.
The human touch
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
THE HOME care sector, which plays a vital role within our society, has been at the forefront of political ping pong and the front line of the pandemic in the 20 years since local provider Terrablu started. Founder and managing director, Richard Gould, reflects on some of the key changes, as well as the future challenges facing the industry and what these mean for the elderly in our community.
It is likely that domiciliary care will continue to provide a vital resource to the frail elderly wishing to continue living at home, and high wage rates mean that it is an increasingly attractive option for those who wish to work part time in their local community. However, given the labour scarcity it is likely to become increasingly a luxury service in the Southeast of England, rather than the cheap commodity service it has historically been regarded as.
Unfortunately, following Brexit, the ability of UK businesses particularly in care to plug shortfalls with overseas recruits was paused. Unsocial working hours, and the lack of affordable childcare severely restricts the attractiveness of care work to our UK female workforce. Since February 2022, the government has now allowed us to recruit care workers from around the world to plug shortfalls, but the process is extremely bureaucratic and domiciliary care work is seen as the most demanding given that workers need to find somewhere to live as well as a car to visit clients. Minimum wage legislation means companies are restricted in providing
such things and then taking a deduction from staff wages, so most foreign workers prefer live-in type work or care homes, particularly those that provide accommodation on site.
Home care encompasses care for the elderly, as well as younger people and children with learning difficulties or physical challenges that mean they need additional support. In fact, when I set up Terrablu, we catered for both adults and children.However, increased regulation in children’s services, following the infamous Victoria Climbié and Baby P child abuse cases, and separately in learning disability regulation, made it challenging for small care companies to meet the shifting compliance restrictions. Like many home-care companies, Terrablu opted to specialise, in our case choosing to support the growing number of elderly people.
in numbers Looking for home care with a human touch? Want a fulfilling career where you can make a difference? TerraBlu have been providing expert domiciliary care for the elderly for 20 years www.terrablu.co.uk 01892 529 429 info@terrablu.co.uk 9 Calverley Crescent, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2NB Expert home care, delivered compassionately The human touch In 20 years of supporting the elderly in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge to live independently, TerraBlu have racked up some serious statistics. Here’s a snapshot of what we have accomplished: 20 years in business 66 years total management care sector expertise 600+ elderly clients helped over 20 years 20 clients over the age of 90 being cared for currently each week 5,701 miles travelled visiting clients each month 108 beds made for clients each week 210 meals prepared each week 18 hearing aid battery checks each week 60 hours of training for each new carer 20 20
Two decades of care: the changes seen in the home care sector since the millennium
Medical advances leading to increased longevity, together with the NHS closing many of its long-term elderly wards in the interests of improving efficiency for younger age groups, has meant that the pressure on social care in the community has increased significantly over the last decade. Indeed, in western Europe, ever-aging population is one of the significant challenges facing the healthcare care sector. In the UK, nearly a fifth of people are now aged 65 and over, with forecasts suggesting they will amount to one in four by 2045.Our aging population was addressed in a keynote speech by David Cameron in 2015, who placed great emphasis on helping people remain in their own homes for as long as possible. This has generally become the accepted ethos, and there is a lot of evidence for the benefits of supporting people – especially those with dementia – to remain in familiar surroundings.Thishasstoked demand for domiciliary care. Meeting this has always been a challenge, as care has never received the social recognition that it truly merits. At Terrablu, supplementing our fabulous local carers with committed carers from the EU enabled us to support more elderly residents in their home.
TerraBlu
HE PIANO is probably one of the most popular instruments to learn to play.
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The cheapest piano option, digital keyboards are a great choice if space is an issue. They also have the option to adjust the volume and use headphones, so noise levels can be controlled and even blocked out. In terms of playability, the keys do not feel the same and the sound is different to an acoustic piano. Another difference is the number of keys. Most keyboards have around 61 keys, an octave less than the other piano options. That said, this range is enough for most pieces.
pianos at their extensive piano showroom on Grove Hill Road in Tunbridge Wells.
Andrew Collins from Brittens Music offers some advice on finding the right piano and what you need to know before purchase....
An upright piano is a more budget friendly acoustic option and takes up a lot less space than a Grand Piano. They are usually around 155cm wide and 60cm deep, with heights ranging from 110cm to 135cm. The height is what determines the sound quality, the taller the piano, the larger the soundboard and strings, which gives a deeper and richer sound.
Ready to tinkle the ivories? Head to Brittens Music showroom on Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells and try out the different options for yourself or visit their website at brittensmusic. co.uk.
62 Wednesday September 21 | 2022Music Matters There is NO obligation to sell so let Clive offer you is advice for FREE. He will advise you personally on your items & absolute discretion is guaranteed.Clive Attrell and his experienced team ensures waiting times are kept to a minimum AVERAGE 5-15 MINS WAITING 111 The 1.00pmME13Boughton-under-BleanStreet9BH-4.00pmQueensBOUGHTONHead High 1.00pmCT3CanterburyQueen’s9.00amCT6Herne281.00pmCT9MargateWestwood9.00amCT12RamsgateStreet4BU-12.00pmIndEstate4JX-4.00pmArkleyRoadBay5SL-12.00pmRoad2BG-4.00pmFri 16th Sep (AM) VillageMINSTERHall Wed 14th Sep (PM) Fri 16th Sep (PM) Thu 15th Sep (PM) Thu 15th Sep (AM) TheHERNEWESTWOODBAYHornbyVisitor Centre Arkley Studio VillageASH Hall SEPTEMBER 227 Hereson Road 1.00pmCT9CliftonvilleNorthdown9.00amCT5Whitstable321.00pmCT7BirchingtonGrenham9.00amCT11Ramsgate7EX-12.00pmBayAve9NN-4.00pmChurchStreet1PH-12.00pmParkRd3LN-4.00pmMon 12th Sep (AM) TheRAMSGATERacingGreyhound Tue 13th Sep (PM) TheKearnsWHITSTABLEBIRCHINGTONHallMonument Wed 14th Sep (AM) Tue 13th Sep (AM) Mon 12th Sep (PM) TheTheMARGATEFAVERSHAMWheatsheafElephantPub 31 The 9.00amME13FavershamMall8JN-12.00pm CASH OFFERS WATHCESWANTEDJADE MEDALSWANTED RINGSWANTEDCOINSWANTED SILVERWANTED Keep this advert for future reference by TV’s Clive Attrell from ITV and BBC Television Clive Attrell has a well-established and successful antiques warehouse on the High Street in Hastings Old Town. You may also recognise him from Dickinson’s Real Deal, on which he was an appraiser for over two years, and numerous other television productions. VALUATION ROADSHOW Hastings Antiques Warehouse, 54 High Street Old Town, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3EN Clive Attrell is Kent County Council Trading Standards Approved: Reg No 15618 “ I wanted to get around £200 for my items, when Clive gave me £500 cash I was over the moon.” Mrs Kelly from Crowborough “ Clive was very interesting to talk with, he clearly has a genuine passion for antiques which helped him identify my items. He offered me a very good price and I am very happy indeed.” Mr J. Peters from Rye WHAT THE PUBLIC SAY... WANTEDGOLD Remember Clive is always ready to make you a genuine no obligation offer.FREEOFFERS www.freeantiquesvaluations.com For general enquiries call Polly on: 07824 359169 Clive Attrell is always in the area and FREE private/home valuations are also available by appointment. TOP •••••••••PAIDPRICESFOR:•DIAMONDS•PRINTS/BOOKS•TOYS/GAMES•POSTCARDS•OLDCOINS•JADEITEMS•SOVEREIGNSSWORDSMILITARIACLOCKSPAINTINGSBRONZESFIGURINESMEDALSWATCHES(workingornot)SILVER(inanycondition)•GOLD(inanycondition)•OBJECTSOFINTEREST•COSTUMEJEWELLERY•CHINESECERAMICS•KRUGERRANDS
If buying new is out of your price range, you can often opt for a second-hand ‘pre-loved’ one. It’s recommended to get it inspected by an expert to make sure it plays as it should. Brittens Music offer a range of new and second-hand
When shopping for a piano is not black and white
Buying options for acoustic pianos
Grand pianos are the largest and most expensive piano out there and they offer the very finest sound quality. Beyond the prestige, a grand piano offers a technical advantage over other options – the ability to play more quickly. The action of this type of piano has a ‘double escapement’ action which allows the pianist to play notes faster than on any other piano.
Digital pianos are a mid-range option. They are designed to imitate the sound and feel of an acoustic piano. The full set of 88 keys are weighted which give a similar experience to pressing the keys of an acoustic piano. Cheaper than an acoustic piano, they do not require tuning or other regular maintenance. The sound is synthesised or synthetic and played through a speaker, which gives a different tone and resonance to notes. Available in different sizes and styles, a digital piano takes up less room than an acoustic one and offers the option to use headphones – a great feature to keep the noise down for neighbours and family members.
Grand Pianos
Upright Pianos
However, many people are put off learning because of budget and space constraints. Today, the different acoustic and digital options available mean you or your child’s dream of playing the piano is achievable. But selecting a piano is not a black and white choice. Before you choose your instrument, you should consider your budget, space limitations, and performance expectations. Here we examine the four different types of pianos and weigh up their pros and cons.
What’s more, if you want to try before you buy, Brittens Music also offer a fantastic rental scheme which allows you to spread the cost into more budget-friendly chunks, allowing you to try the instrument without making a larger financial commitment upfront.
Digital Pianos
Digital Keyboards
H Engineering Ltd, Little Cacketts Farm, Haymans Hill, Horsmonden, Kent, TN12 8BX info@h-engineering.com | 01892 549042 WWW.H-ENGINEERING.COM RESTORING THE WORLD’S MOST ICONIC CARS
Brook Street, TN9
Wednesday 5th October
Open Mornings
Leigh Academy Tonbridge offers an inspirational education for girls and boys in Tonbridge from September 2023.
Our small school model ensures every child is truly known and nurtured, with everything we do underpinned by our core values of integrity, courage and imagination
Tonbridge, Kent,
2PH
Part of Leigh AcademiesThursdayTrust
Further tours may be arranged by request. 20th October
Thursday 29th September
Friday 14th October 9.30am - 11am
Open Evening
An Inspirational Education for Girls and Boys in Tonbridge
www.leighacademytonbridge.org.uk.
Wednesday 28th September, 5pm - 8pm
Friday 21st October 9.30am - 10.30am