Times of Tunbridge Wells 27 September 23

Autumn specials have arrived with our awarded le cordon

BID launches its campaign to attract more businesses to town

By Michelle Wood

A NEW campaign has been launched by the Royal Tunbridge Wells Together Business Improvement District (BID) for central Tunbridge Wells to promote the town as a business destination. The campaign seeks to bring “long-term financial benefits” to the town beyond those currently experienced by BID members.

The BID is a defined area of the town centre in which businesses

‘BID was formed in 2019 after a “Yes” vote among member businesses’

contribute an annual levy based on the rateable value of their premises. RTW Together in turn manages these funds, to carry out “improvement activities, marketing and events” to improve trading conditions within the town centre.

BID was formed in 2019 after a

“Yes” vote among member businesses and stands to continue until 2024. A new ballot of businesses is expected to take place in February 2024, and the future of BID will inevitably lie in its effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate.

Of the 650 members in the central business district comprising BID, more than 200 of these businesses are professional services, including

Continued on page 2

INSIDE: Concerns raised around safety at High Brooms Station – page 3

ART SPACE:

Children from several Tunbridge Wells schools joined Cllrs Hugo Pound and Justine Rutland as well as the Retirement Villages Group and the Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre team, to unveil their artworks, which brighten up the hoardings around the former ABC Cinema site. See Page 3

Picture: David Bartholomew

WEATHER

Thousands more commuters and patients to be affected by strikes

By Grace Corcoran

THOUSANDS of people across Tunbridge

Wells will feel the impact of strike action over the next few weeks, as train drivers and doctors stage further walkouts over pay disputes and working conditions.

Aslef, the train drivers’ union, has announced the next round of industrial action for Saturday September 30 and Wednesday October 4, bringing Southeastern trains to a halt. In addition, they announced an overtime ban on Friday September 29 and October 2-6, which will cause disruption for over a week.

The strikes coincide with the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester which begins Sunday October 1 and ends

Wednesday October 4.

Mike Whelan, Aslef General Secretary, said: “While we regret having to take this action... the Government, and the employers have forced us into this position.

“Our members have not had a pay rise for four years – since 2019 – and that’s not right when prices have soared in that time.”

The RMT will also be striking on October 4 and 6 on the London Underground. As the train strikes continue into next month, doctors’ strikes will also be held in October as junior doctors and consultants join forces in strike action.

Patients in Tunbridge Wells will be affected by the walkouts held on October 2, 3 and 4, where Christmas Day cover will be provided once more.

The industrial action will put services under increased pressure, with appointments and procedures postponed.

Dr Ishani Rao, a junior doctor at MTW told the Times: “As a GP and emergency doctor, I am proud that we are still standing our ground against the Government’s insulting offers...

“There was already a backlog of rescheduled and delayed appointments and surgeries due to the pandemic, and patients are already struggling to access services due to understaffing and overdemand of patient requirements and load. This will in turn cause a surge in patients needing emergency and general practice appointments, which do not exist.

“The Government needs to recognise that they are not creating a safe or appealing work environment for overstretched healthcare workers.

“We are advocating for improved working conditions and patient safety- not just a few pence an hour.”

NHS National Medical Director professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “The NHS has simply never seen this kind of industrial action in its history. This week’s first ever joint action means almost all planned care will come to a stop... .

“We’re very grateful to the public for using the NHS wisely during this period, when we will be prioritising emergency care. In a lifethreatening situation, use 999 and A&E as normal, but for everything else, use 111 online or use services in the community which are largely unaffected, like GPs and pharmacies.”

BID aims to boost business in town

Continued from front page

legal, financial, creative and insurance sectors. This cohort contributes more than £150,000 in levies each year.

top-100 law firm based in the town,” Mr Green says.

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

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However, many of BID’s tangible activities have to date been focused on boosting footfall in the town centre, thus supporting ‘street-facing’ businesses, such as retailers and hospitality outlets. The new campaign seeks to act with the interests of the wider business community in mind.

Over the past five years, 5,000 new businesses have been established in the town and surrounding areas, and an impressive list of corporates now choose to call Tunbridge Wells home.

In response to the needs of these clients, a BID spokesperson said that the new campaign will focus on telling the success story of Tunbridge Wells businesses to the national, trade and regional business outlets, while highlighting the positive attributes of the town. The hope is that this campaign will in turn attract new business, investors, developers and talent to the town.

BID Director Alex Green said: “Royal Tunbridge Wells is a thriving town full of businesses at all stages of growth; a hotbed of creative, financial, property and legal talent; a curated array of workspace at accessible prices, and probably one of the most well-balanced places to work, with over 100 open green spaces within walking distance of the town centre.

“A great example of this is Cripps – a

“They have a strong cohort who live and have chosen to work here. This has been both accelerated and facilitated by their employer recognising the opportunity and remodelling a working lifestyle that suits all stakeholders.”

The new campaign plans to “leverage these successes and attributes”, which unashamedly present Tunbridge Wells as “the place to work, invest and do business”. It also seeks to shine a light on the myriad workspaces available within the town for flexible workers, while impressing on professionals that a London commute is not the only option for doing business.

In response to the new campaign, Alex McEwan, Operations Director at property developers Dandara, said: “Our relationship with Tunbridge Wells is personal. We’ve invested over £10million in the town… It remains our focal point for the South East business.

“We firmly believe that businesses should come to Tunbridge Wells: it’s an aspirational place to live and there is a lot

BID is calling on businesses in the town to get in touch to help BID tell their stories. If you would like to contribute, please contact laura@calvermont.com and check out the campaign website at: tunbridgewells.works

of wealth, talent and intellect here.

“Over the years we personally have seen people commute to Tunbridge Wells to take advantage of the green open spaces; the restaurants; The Pantiles. People want to spend time here. We think Tunbridge Wells is the perfect location for people-based advisory businesses, and it is an ideal opportunity for inward investment. Yes, we are self-invested but we bought into the story and we think others should too.”

Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge Wells has also voiced his support for the campaign.

He said: “When thinking about what makes Tunbridge Wells the best place to live and work, it is difficult to pick just one reason: whether it be the excellent rail and transport links, the fact that Central London is only 45 minutes away; the significant number of fantastic schools; the range of independent and local businesses or having the countryside right on your doorstep. There is genuinely something for everyone in Tunbridge Wells. I support any campaign which unashamedly presents Tunbridge Wells as the place to work, invest and do business.”

The BID is running a survey to help underpin the campaign with quantitative and qualitative data and insights from people and businesses in the community, please do take part here: surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HNP2FPQ

TAKING A STAND: Junior doctors on strike at Tunbridge Wells Hospital earlier this year

NEWS IN BRIEF Man arrested for Crowborough arson

A 57-year-old man from Crowborough has been arrested on suspicion of arson after seven vehicles were damaged were damaged in a series of fires in the town.

The fires took place near Montargis Way, between 10pm on Friday, September 22 and 3am on Saturday, September 23. After Sussex Police received a description of the suspect, a search was carried out and the man was located near the Crowborough town centre, where he was hiding from police.

The suspect remains in custody following his arrest.

Hillview School bus route reinstated

After talks with the Kent County Council, Hams Travel has confirmed that Service 1, Groombridge to Tonbridge and Hillview School, will continue to run indefinitely. It will not be terminating on September 29, as previously announced. Each vehicle will be equipped with interior CCTV monitoring, and instances of vandalism and/or general antisocial behaviour will result in a ban from the bus. Any offender holding a KCC Travelsaver pass will find their pass cancelled.

Council wins animal welfare award

The Tunbridge Wells Borough Council was recently issued with a Pawprints Gold Award for achievements in protecting and promoting the welfare of all animals involved in licensable activities, as well as enforcing legislation and having a clear process to monitor and investigate unlicensed activities.

As part of their work, the TWBC Animal Licensing team inspects premises that are required by law to hold a licence – from doggy daycare to people selling animals.

Former resident jailed for child sex offences

A former Tunbridge Wells resident has been jailed for seven years for attempted sexual abuse of children.

Gareth Lucas repeatedly sent explicit images to the social media profiles of two children he believed were only 14 years old. between August 2 and November 13 2019.

He bombarded the children with explicit messages, urging them to engage in sexual activity and to send him indecent images. He also attempted to meet one of them in Sevenoaks, where he planned to carry out abuse on a train.

However, their profiles were linked to fictitious accounts. He was arrested in Tunbridge Wells on November 12 2019

On Friday, September 2023, Lucas, 31, was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment, with an extended licence period of four years. He was also added to the sex offender register for life.

Safety issues raise concern at High Brooms Station after alleged assault

By Grace Corcoran

A RECENT sexual assault in High Brooms has highlighted the issues of safety that women experience while travelling home from the train station.

On Saturday September 16, a woman exiting High Brooms train station was approached by a stranger, who followed her on foot before sexually assaulting her inside a property.

Following an investigation by Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, the suspect, a 32-year-old man from Greater London was subsequently arrested.

Still, the assault has shaken the community – particularly as women of all ages alight that station every day.

Councillor Jayne Sharratt (Labour), co-founder of Reclaim the Night Tunbridge Wells – a group campaigning for safer streets – said: “It is a basic human right to be able to walk safely home any time of day or night, and we are heartbroken and honestly incandescent with rage that this wasn’t the case on Saturday night.

“We don’t need more advice to women on how we can change our behaviour to keep ourselves safe, because crimes like this incident are committed by men, and it is men who need to change.

“We hope the police will engage meaningfully with the community about how we can all feel safer in public spaces, and [we] would be keen to work with them if they want to do this,” Sharratt said.

The assault has highlighted the lack of resources at the station to help keep women safe. A visit by the Times to the High Brooms Station revealed no taxi rank or waiting taxis. This is in stark contrast to the Tunbridge Wells Station, which is serviced by taxi ranks at both exits. Taxi ranks are managed by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. The Council’s

Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy states:

“The Council will periodically review the provision of hackney carriage stands within the Borough. If there is evidence of the need to amend the existing provisions, a full consultation would be undertaken prior to any amendments.”

Taxi service Walkers Cars has an office at High Brooms Station with bookable vehicles, but they rarely have waiting taxis available, says Southborough Town Councillor Alan Bullion.

Underpass

In addition, the station exits cannot be presumed safe. Platform 2’s exit is via a poorly-lit path leading to Clifton Road, and the connecting underpass is not only inaccessible to many, with no ‘escape route’ if needed.

On average, the station, which has been unstaffed up until this week, sees 2,125 passengers entering or exiting each day. At the time of going to press, one of the ticket machines was out of action, owing to vandalism. The ticket office had, however, been reopened.

As reported by the Times on June 7 2023, the station is on the list for accessibility works, so the underpass should be replaced by a lift and an overpass.

The British Transport Police (BTP), who are responsible for the station said: “BTP have had a focus on sexual offending for many years.

“There’s no place for it on the rail network, and stamping out this unacceptable behaviour is our priority.”

Anyone who experiences anything that makes them uncomfortable should text 61016, or call 999 in an emergency.

The timing of the alleged rape is particularly pertinent – just two days before Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark’s Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Bill became law.

Mr Clark said: “For too long, too many women and girls have felt unsafe when alone on our streets.

“They have become used to being followed and harassed in public places, causing them to behave differently to men – such as by avoiding walking alone after dark, taking different routes home, or gripping keys in their hands for self-protection”.

Momentum grows at ABC cinema site with unveiling of new hoardings

By Michelle Wood

IN a clear sign to the local community that progress is imminent, the Retirement Villages Group (RVG) – the developers of the former ABC cinema site – have roped in young artists from around the town to create a bright, new addition to the town landscape.

The collage of drawings on hoardings around the former ABC Cinema site was unveiled in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, September 20.

The new designs reflect depictions of inspiring older people through the eyes of pupils from The Wells Free School, Bishops Down Primary School, Temple Grove Academy and St Barnabas Church of England Primary School.

In addition, with the assistance of Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre, children produced a collage of the skyline of the town.

Along with school representatives, also in attendance were RVG members, members of the Trinity Theatre and Arts Centre, and Cllr Justine Rutland, Cabinet Member for Tunbridge Wells Town and Local Areas, and Cllr Hugo Pound, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning.

The ceremony marks the next step towards the development of the new

retirement community, which achieved its planning consent in late 2022 and is on track to begin construction in early 2024.

Paul Jess, Senior Development Manager at RVG said: “As we move towards the first phase of construction in early 2024, we hope the community will enjoy the artworks as they go about their day in the town centre.”

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: High Brooms Station

STREET ART: Local pupils admire their work

Coworking spaces are cropping up across town as office units see a decline in uptake

By Grace Corcoran

A DEMAND for flexible coworking spaces in Tunbridge Wells is fuelling the demise of office rental units, with traditional office spaces seeing a decline in uptake and converting back into residential property. Earlier this month, permission was granted to convert an office building in Lonsdale Gardens into four two-bedroom dwellings, while developers are awaiting approval for Longford House on Mount Ephraim to be changed from office space to residential use.

Flexible

Zenith International Investments, owners of Longford House, said 40 per cent of the building space has remained unlet for the past five years, attributing the lack of demand to the shift of working habits, with many businesses adopting the work-fromhome/flexible model since it became popular during the pandemic.

Coworking spaces offer a flexible way of working and renting for businesses. These spaces especially appeal to start-ups and individuals who often don’t need the space, nor can afford to rent a larger office unit.

Research carried out by Durlings, a local commercial property firm, on behalf of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC), predicted the “uncertain” future of office space in 2021, citing the “general trend towards the benefits of flexible and serviced offices and coworking spaces”. The research led to the ongoing development of a project to create community-based coworking spaces in the Town Hall.

A start-up boom in the UK has also led to “an increasing number of people looking to supplement homeworking with coworking,” explains Emma Smith, co-founder and Managing Director of The Hive.

Found at 12-16 The Pantiles, The Hive offers private offices, hot desks which can be booked ad-hoc and onsite catering facilities. The experience goes further than simply

a workspace, with Kypseli Taverna – a restaurant open to the public on the ground floor, while The Buzz – a coffee lounge, bar and event space is a near neighbour.

Club Quantum will be joining The Hive on The Pantiles, with their doors set to open later this year.

Set up by local entrepreneur Liam Hopper, owner of OHMY Hair salons in Tunbridge Wells and Reading, the members-only coworking space combines working with comfort and style, bringing a luxury feel to the 1887 building.

The ability to give smaller companies and individuals more flexibility with renting space is appealing, especially in the cost-of-living crisis.

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using both our spaces.”

Diverse businesses and individuals occupy the Tribe’s spaces including marketing agency Colley Raine, who have been working from OfficeTribe since April 2021.

Managing Director Sarah Raine enjoys the flexibility the coworking space offers, especially during periods of growth.

“We have grown out of three offices in our two-plus years with them and they have [accommodated] us every time,” she said.

The extra perks of coworking spaces including regular socials, workshops and breakfast catch-ups often pave the way for collaboration and more opportunities.

“We share knowledge and recommend each other for work opportunities. There are often people in the building who have complementary skills to your business,” Sarah added.

A further benefit of local coworking spaces is the ability to cut down on commuting time and travel costs.

Mandy Weston, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Town Square (Town Sq) recognises this as a benefit, as she explained why they are increasing their portfolio, which includes coworking spaces in London and Cardiff, to a prime location in Tunbridge Wells town centre.

OfficeTribe, which has two spaces on Mount Pleasant and London Road, saw a decline in people using facilities in the first part of this year, so adapted its membership model to create a more affordable space, offering flexible coworking days and an unlimited hotdesk membership.

Brand and Operations Manager Hattie Butler told the Times:

“OfficeTribe has always been so much more than a ‘desk for hire’ enterprise. We built our very foundations on the spirit of community and belonging.

“Our membership model ensures it has never been more affordable to work with us for a day, month or permanently and this has led to an increase of people

“There’s so much in the heritage of the building to celebrate, we’re working hard to retain as much of that and create an inspiring professional workspace for local entrepreneurs and freelancers, as well as a space for people to work closer to home and cut down on commute time.

“There is a lot more to coworking than just the space. Having the ability to simply turn to someone and talk through challenges that they’ve overcome themselves is invaluable.

“You don’t get that working from home or in a coffee shop – and along with the natural networking you build trust and relationships. That’s what adds real value and energy to a workspace”, she said.

In place of the usual Q&A, the following are some of the support packages that have been made available to help businesses deal with the Coronavirus:

VAT can be a very complex area, particularly if you import/export or deal with property. However, I want to have a look at some of the basic requirements to be registered, and whether voluntary registration can be beneficial.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: HMRC will reimburse 80% of wages paid to workers who have be laid off due to the coronavirus crisis. This is capped at £2.5k per employee per month.

If you have income that is subject to VAT (zero rate, reduced rate, standard rate and due to reverse charge on imported services) then you need to register if either a) your VAT taxable turnover exceeded £85,000 in the 12 months up to the end of last month or b) your VAT taxable turnover will exceed £85,000 in the next 30 days. Under (a), you need to register from the 1st day of the second month after exceeding the threshold. Under (b) you need to register from the date you first expected to go over the threshold.

VAT Deferral: The deferral will apply from 20 March to 30 June 2020. There is a lack of clarity on the Gov. uk website and we are interpreting this as payments due by 30 June rather than quarters ended 30 June. This means that May quarter VAT Returns, where payment is due by 7 July, will still be payable as normal. Any payments deferred will become payable by the end of the tax year (31/3/21 Company or 5/4/21 Unincorporated)

Even if you have not breached the thresholds, you can register voluntarily if you believe it will be beneficial for your business. By registering, you will have to charge VAT on your sales, typically at 20%. If your

Income Tax Deferral: The self-assessment second payment on account, due by 31 July 2020, will be deferred to 31 January 2021. No penalties or interest will be charged.

Cash Grants: A grant of £10k will automatically be provided to all businesses currently entitled to Small Business Rates Relief. A grant of £25k can be claimed for businesses in the retail, hospitality or leisure industry if their rateable value is between £15k and £51K.

Business Rates Holiday: There is a 12-month business rates holiday (April 20 to March 21) for all retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England.

clients are not VAT registered, they cannot reclaim the VAT and your price just went up by 20%. In this situation, registration should be avoided until compulsory. However, if your clients are VAT registered, they can usually claim this back, so it is not an additional cost to them. This means you can register without compromising your competitiveness. The benefit of this is that you can now reclaim the VAT on your business expenses. For every £600 you previously spent with VAT registered suppliers, you will now be able to reclaim £100 (assuming standard rated goods/ services). Whilst there is slightly more administration involved, if you are already keeping reasonable records using accounting software, this will be minimal and the savings, depending on the nature of your expenses, will likely outweigh the cost.

As noted at the beginning, VAT can be a minefield and you should speak to your accountant before making any changes.

Time to Pay Arrangements: In addition to the deferral schemes noted above, if you have outstanding tax liabilities (Corporation Tax, VAT or Income Tax) due to coronavirus, you may be able to agree a time to pay arrangement. Arrangements will be agreed on a case by case basis. To discuss your options, contact HMRC on 0800 0159 559.

Further info and updates can be found here: https:// www.synergee.org.uk/press-releases/coronavirus-update

WORKING TOGETHER: Coworking at OfficeTribe

Our elves are busy creating an enchanted woodland, ready for your festive adventure!

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Street artist to help fix defaced rocks

By Lilly Croucher

RESIDENTS across the Borough have voiced concern over a rise in graffiti tagging in public toilets, car parks and recently, the much-loved Wellington Rocks on Tunbridge Wells Common.

Now, a local professional graffiti artist is hoping to change the perception of what is often viewed as anti-social behaviour – and in the process, restore the famous rocks.

Hugh Whitaker, also known as Humor, spoke to the Times about the emergence of graffiti around town.

“In the graff scene, people will always try to get their tag seen. It’s called ‘getting up’, and people will tag walls and hang off buildings to get their name out there,” he said.

“But then there are the people who will tag the same electrical box again and again, and that’s not what it’s all about.

“On the Wellington Rocks, someone painted this big, colourful piece, and I don’t know why they did that.

“When it’s cleaned, it will leave some residue, but you can’t use a power washer because it would fade the colour of the rocks [which are] so old.

“I am speaking with the park about spraying over the piece in colours that will match the rocks.”

Humor believes that his graffiti is “artistic”, but says that changing perspectives around the activity has

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Humor with an example of his work

been challenging at times.

“What I do is very different from tagging graffiti, but there is this blurred line between it being legal and it being illegal, which is down to having permission.

“I got into this through my illustrative background. I then started to use spray paint as my medium.

“I think there is this suspicion from the public about graffiti artists. When I start a piece on a wall, I sometimes get funny questions or comments.

“One time I was in London, and the police were called, but it was clear we had permission to paint the wall. The public don’t always get it.”

While not everyone is on board with

graffiti, Humor believes street art can be a proactive approach to preventing tagging, while adding something to the community.

“In Tunbridge Wells, if there is a white wall, it will get tagged and if it gets cleaned, then it becomes a blank canvas and people will tag over it again.

“It’s an ongoing battle, and tagging will always be around – it is just about how you deal with it.

“You can’t stop people tagging. They will continue to do it, but I think if we turn a wall into a space where people can paint, or we create a mural, then it might help.

“I’d like to think people would respect the artwork on a wall and not tag over it, which is usually the case.

“I recently did the toilets near Wellington Rocks with the sole purpose of covering up the tags, which looked really bad.

“I sprayed over it with this naturethemed piece, taking inspiration from the location around me, so there are trees and butterflies that I saw in the park, which I think gives it a bit more of a personal touch.

Solution

“All the feedback I got said it looked so much better, and I like to think this can be a solution to the problem.”

While the work Humor does is legal, most of the tagging around town is not, and is therefore considered criminal damage.

Ian Jones, of the Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Unit, said: “We are aware of how frustrating it is for people to see wanton criminal damage, including graffiti, within our communities.

“We do not underestimate the impact on residents and businesses whose properties are vandalised, and as part of their proactive patrols, officers are always on the lookout for suspicious behaviour.

“To tackle these issues, we also need residents to report criminal damage as it helps us identify hotspots and times when it may be happening.”

Incidents can be reported at: kent. police.uk/ro/report/asb/asb-v3/reportantisocial-behaviour/

ARTISTIC LICENCE:

Subbuteo club kicks off in time for the game coming home to Tunbridge Wells

By Victoria Roberts

A COMEBACK plan for the game of Subbuteo in its home country and the town of its birth is firmly on the table, with a new junior club starting locally in time for next year’s World Cup.

A table-based game with football-like figures and a ball, Subbuteo was invented in Tunbridge Wells by Peter Adolph in 1946 and was manufactured locally for many years.

The Subbuteo World Cup will be held in the town in September next year. However, a relative lack of players has left the English Subbuteo Association (ESA) at a disadvantage, and the squad recently returned from the European Championships in Gibraltar (September 16-17) without a medal.

Championships

England has about 700 club players, but only ESA members can compete in tournaments and international championships.

ESA Vice-Chairman Alan Lee told the Times: “We are a little bit [behind] the top Subbuteo countries. Italy, Belgium and Malta are all very strong.

“The ESA has about 150 members, while Italy’s has 3,500 members.” The World Cup is part of a plan to revive the English game.

Mount Ephraim care home reopens

“We need 64 tables to hold a major championship. The World Cup will give us the tables and the equipment, and give us more experience.”

The introduction of the new club –covering under-12s and under-16s –will also offer a boost, said Mr Lee, who is part of the World Cup organising committee.

“We hope that for the World Cup next year, we will be fully represented in each category.”

Check the ESA Facebook page for details about the club, which will be starting soon on Thursday evenings at The Amelia. For information about business sponsorship, please contact: englishsubbuteoassociation@gmail.com

By Sharon Bruce

THE Mayor of Tunbridge Wells helped to officially reopen Mount Ephraim House care home on Friday September 15 at an event attended by over 50 local professionals in health, care, businesses and beyond, alongside the home’s residents and their relatives.

Operated by not-for-profit provider, Greensleeves Care, Mount Ephraim House – which retains features dating back to the 17th century – reopened in June this year after extensive expansion and renovation.

At the event, Mount Ephraim House residents Christine Stone and Angela Cook welcomed guests, including the

Mayor and Mayoress, into their home.

Christine, 95, said: “Although Angela and I didn’t know each other before we moved into Mount Ephraim House earlier this year, we already feel that we have made friends for life. It’s a lovely home, all my visitors say so.”

The Mayor, Cllr Hugh Patterson also spoke at the event.

Together with Christine and Angela, the mayor unveiled a brass plaque and cut a symbolic ribbon to mark the reopening. Guests and residents celebrated the occasion with drinks, a selection of treats made by the home’s catering team and live music and tours of the home.

HOME FROM HOME:

The ceremony at Mount Ephraim House

Runners raise funds for local hospice

By Elena Percy

HUNDREDS took to the streets of Tunbridge Wells for fitness, fundraising and memories at Hospice in the Weald’s annual Hospice Run in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday September 17.

All the runners gave their all for Hospice in the Weald, taking part in the new family fun run and halfmarathon, along with the classic 5k and 10k routes.

Special guest, Paralympian table tennis player Will Bayley, who is set to compete in Paris next year, gave the crowds a few words of encouragement before they set out. There were emotional scenes at the finish line as participants celebrated not only their achievements but the lives of loved ones who had received hospice care. Sisters Lottie, Olivia and Issy Ramsey were part of ‘Sue’s Jovials’, a team of family and friends who together ran the 10k route in memory of their mum, Sue Ramsey, who had been cared for at the Hospice in October 2021. By race day, they had already raised more than £3,000, and funds were still coming in.

Lottie said: “After everything Mum went through, we wanted to put in some hard work and give back for the incredible care she received at the Hospice in Pembury.

Championships

Issy added: “We were also able to stay overnight with Mum at the Hospice and bring our dog Marnie too, which made all the difference. Mum did the 10k route about five years ago, in memory of her own mum, who was also cared for at the Hospice, so we did it for our grandma and our mum. Taking part in events like this is so important as it keeps Mum’s

Aspens’ worker picks up top BBC award

memory alive and helps us feel closer to her.”

Jesse Ansbro-Brett, Relationship Manager at Hospice in the Weald said: “Thank you so much to all who helped to make Hospice Run 23 such an incredible event. That includes every single runner, our donors, ambassadors, staff, volunteers and all the local people and businesses who so generously supported this special community event. More than £91,000 was raised, with funds still coming in. Every penny will help Hospice in the Weald continue to make a vital difference to the lives of those in our community facing terminal illness and their loved ones.”

Wildlife work starts at Holden Pond

By Victoria Roberts

WORK has started at Holden Pond in Southborough, as the wetland begins its metamorphosis into a more biodiverse habitat following its previous use as a fishing spot.

Part of Southborough Common, the pond lies in the narrow valley between Constitutional Hill Road and Kibbles Lane, and is bounded on three sides by roads.

Phase one works started last week, with the rebuilding of the central island using chestnut stakes, hazel rods and special fabric to hold silt taken from the pond.

By Grace Corcoran

A LOCAL charity support worker has won a BBC award for his outstanding work.

As previously reported in the Times on August 30, Mike Giles, Senior Horticultural Support Worker at Aspens in Pembury had been nominated for the Carer category at the BBC Make a Difference Awards on September 18.

Mike has been recognised for his hard work in empowering people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities to access and enjoy a range of gardening activities, grow fruit and vegetables, look after animals and to learn about horticulture

over the past 40 years.

Mike said on the night: “I didn't think I was going to win anything. The other three [nominees] all do good jobs, any one of them could have won this prize.”

The Make a Difference Awards –a BBC Local Radio initiative launched during the pandemic –celebrates people who have improved their local communities.

The winners were announced at an awards ceremony at Priestfield Stadium in Gillingham.

Two other locals, Nell Mellerick and Seth Hunter, were also nominated in the Great Neighbour category for their incredible contributions to the community, but lost out on the night.

The chestnut and hazel frames will also be used to make six small ‘hibernaculums’ around the pond –small bays in which newts, toads, frogs, and other small creatures can overwinter, said Southborough Town Council (STC), which owns and manages the site.

The contractor will also plant native water plants, including hogwart to oxygenate the water and help the pond recover from its previous use as a licensed fishing spot, said STC. Under an earlier plan, the area was to become a bird sanctuary, but following consultation with experts, it was found that the pond was not large enough, nor sheltered from traffic, to be suitable for nesting.

More works will follow as STC develops its long-term management plan for the site.

From biometric clocking-in systems, to monitoring staff through mediums such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), email and key stroke tracking, desk and movement monitoring – employers now have such a wide range of choice. However, is monitoring staff micro-management verging on bullying, or an essential tool to manage people nowadays? Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing Director of Loch Associates Group, evaluates the pros and cons. Through monitoring using CCTV surveillance, employers can pinpoint bottlenecks in production lines, identify development needs or support as required, and assess the impact of different shifts on production rates. Armed with these insights, management can implement process improvements, such as adjusting shift schedules or fine-tuning routines. These measures optimise workflows, minimise delays, and lead to a more resource-efficient operation, with activity monitoring even extending to software. Today’s workplace surveillance software is a digital minefield that began with email and phone monitoring but now includes keeping track of web-browsing patterns, text messages, screenshots, keystrokes, social media posts, private messaging apps like WhatsApp and facial recognition tools. For employers, it means they can track progress and ‘keep an eye’ on staff, especially when remote working. However, these potential gains must be considered alongside the legal, ethical and privacy implications associated with surveillance.

Workplace monitoring usually involves processing personal data and is therefore governed by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Employers must not only carefully consider the data protection implications of monitoring but also the potential impact on the employer – employee relationship. The pervasive nature of constant surveillance can infringe upon employees’ rights to personal space and create feelings of discomfort and unease.

Any decision to monitor staff should involve careful balancing between the business interests of an employer and the workforce’s rights and freedoms in relation to their personal data. To lawfully monitor staff, an employer has to be able to identify one of 10 lawful bases to justify it. The most likely lawful basis an employer can rely on is Legitimate Interest – where the monitoring is necessary for legitimate interest unless the risks to the employee’s rights overrides them. However, employers will have to carry out an assessment as to whether or not they could achieve their objectives in a less intrusive way. If they could, then they will not be able to rely on the legitimate interest basis to justify the monitoring.

Trust erosion can emerge as a major challenge as monitoring can foster an atmosphere of distrust between employers and employees, undermining open communication and collaboration. If not appropriately managed, monitoring tools can lead to a culture where employees feel closely scrutinised, curtailing autonomy and stifling independent decision-making. The pressure of performing under surveillance can contribute to heightened stress levels, impacting employees’ mental well-being.

A considered and measured approach which emphasises transparency, proportionality, and employee consent can alleviate many concerns associated with monitoring. The decision to use workplace monitoring methods should therefore be guided by a well-informed consideration of both the operational benefits and the potential impact on employee wellbeing and privacy.

www.lochassociates.co.uk

Big Brother isn’t just watching: workplace surveillance can track your every move

RUNNING FOR MUM: ‘Sue’s Jovials’ completed the 10K course

RECOGNISED: Mike Giles with his prize

Local marketing and fundraising agency celebrates fifth birthday

By Michelle Wood

COLLEY Raine & Associates, a Tunbridge Wells-based ethical marketing and fundraising agency, celebrated its fifth year with a drinks reception hosted by the Pantiles Bar & Café on Wednesday September 20. They were joined by their Associates, clients and suppliers, who were treated to bubbles and mouth-watering canapés from Head Chef Lukas Barauskas.

Charity

Also invited to attend the event was Porridge and Pens Ghana, a charity that supports street children and young women in Kumasi, Ghana, to get an education free from corporal punishment, which is widely used in Ghanaian schools. Colley Raine Founder Sarah Raine will be travelling to Ghana in October to help at the school. Guests had the opportunity to donate and find out more about the charity’s work.

Colley Raine was created in 2018 to offer a full-service marketing agency to SMEs and charities without the expensive price tag of retaining an agency or employing staff. They provide support to clients through strategic development, brand identity, social media, marketing comms and PR, event management, fundraising, ethical giving and data management. The company

operates by a philosophy derived from the term “Ubuntu”, that to be wholly fulfilled, one should give something back to others. They have committed to giving 30 per cent of their time to support charitable causes at a heavily discounted charity rate. Many of the Associates also sit as pro-bono Trustees for local charities.

Reflecting on the milestone, Sarah Raine said: “In [five years] we have supported 52 clients... and we have reached over 30 million people in press, TV, radio and editorial features and campaigns and posted over 15,000 posts. I am beyond thrilled to realise we have also raised over £750,000 through fundraising campaigns, trust and grant applications for our charity clients.”

To find out more about Colley Raine & Associates, please visit colleyraine.co.uk. To find out more about the work of Porridge & Pens Ghana please visit porridgeandpens.org

Loch Associates Group announces promotion to support growth plans

By Sharon Bruce

LOCH Associates Group multi-service law and HR business has announced the promotion of Ashley Scriven to Partner to help support the Group’s rapid growth plans. The appointment reflects continued growth within the Group, which has recently appointed a new Director of Strategy and acquired Sightscreen HR, an HR, training and coaching specialist.

Construction boss draws up plans to size up small business

By Victoria Roberts

SCALING up is on the drawing board for a local construction entrepreneur who has just started a prestigious, fully-funded management course promoted by Goldman Sachs. The course aims to help UK smalland medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Employment

needed for growth are not always obvious, so the programme helps decision-makers explore a range of possibilities, up to and including selling a company.

Mr Mann said that many small businesses know their goals for turnover or staff size, but the question is often: “How are you going to get there”?

Ashley will play an integral part in the strategy and direction of Loch Law. She said: “I am delighted to be promoted to Partner at a very exciting time in the growth of the business.

“It has been such a fantastic opportunity and rewarding experience for me to work amongst a fantastic team of experts, as well as personally playing a significant role in the development of a very successful and respected brand.”

The 10,000 Small Businesses Programme, in partnership with Oxford’s Saïd Business School and Aston University’s Centre for Growth, targets small companies and social enterprises that are ‘scalable’ and capable of generating additional local employment.

Andrew Mann, Managing Director of Crowborough-based Clarity Homes and Commercial, explained that the exact steps

From Isolation to Connection: Creating a Co-Working Community

Setting up my own business, Jennifer Cooper Timesaver is without doubt one of the best things I have ever done - it is exhilarating and empowering.

After 18 years in retail I have fallen in love with the freedoms of running my own business:

● I can be there for my children, take time to attend meetings, sports days etc without having to spend hours bargaining with a manager.

● I never have to sit in an appraisal again!

● I choose who I work with - people who align with my values

● I select my working hours. I love having weekends off, being able to enjoy Christmas and not spend Boxing Day setting up the sale and processing refunds.

I’m not naive, running your own business is hard work, but that work flows when you are doing something you loveand for me that is supporting fellow small business owners to save time, untangle tech and boost their online visibility.

The only downside I have found is that it can be lonely and isolating. I went from being in a busy shop to just me and my desk.

Then 16 months ago I had an idea which changed everything - Kindred Spirits Co-Working.

Once a week on Thursday mornings 10-12 I run a free weekly co-working opportunity for other freelancers and small business owners. All I ask is that you buy something to support the local cafe which is hosting us - currently the lovely Charlotte’s on the Pantiles.

Bring your laptop or notebook, and spend 2-3 hours working with fellow business owners who get it. You get support, connection and an excellent cup of coffee. We would love for you to join us and find your Kindred Spirits.

Find out more on my website

www.jennifercoopertimesaver.co.uk

Clarity’s own goals are to expand in Kent and Sussex, develop training within the company, and create growth and promotion opportunities for its own staff.

“We have an office in Sussex, and want to open an office in Kent,” he told the Times Although Clarity currently has one apprentice, it plans to invest in staff at all levels, he stressed.

Mr Mann started the four-month programme in September and expects to finish in December.

AIMING FOR GROWTH:

Andrew Mann (second from left), sponsored the Green Business of the Year category at this year’s Times Business Awards, through his firm Clarity Homes and Commercial

NETWORKING: Grace Harriman-Browning of Childrensalon, Jemma Williams of Porridge and Pens Ghana, and Sarah Raine of Colley Raine & Associates

The Inside café set to ‘wind down’ after nearly four years

By Victoria Roberts

THE INSIDE café is planning to give the local community a spooktacular send-off, after nearly four years of operating next to a playground in Calverley Grounds. Breaking the news to customers, the café’s owner Laura Parker revealed there had been a “cauldron of problems”, but vowed to continue opening over the weekends throughout the winding-down period, with notifications posted on social media.

Seasonal

She told the Times: “We are open Friday to Monday and then if I am able to do another day, I pop it on socials.

“Plans are still in place for our haunted house and pumpkin trail over the October half-term holiday.”

Open since 2019, the café has provided homemade goods and coffee, themed seasonal treasure hunts, birthday parties and term-time groups.

It has also hosted midwife drop-ins for new mothers and babies as well as gettogethers for new Year 7s before the start of secondary school.

However, located next to the adventure playground but screened from other park-goers by foliage, The Inside Café

CHRISTMAS PARTIES

Rose of Bengal on awards shortlist

By Sharon Bruce

THE heat is on for a Crowborough restaurant following the release of the Asian Curry Awards shortlist last week.

Rose of Bengal on Crowborough

Hill is one of over 200 entries for the annual ‘Curry Oscars’. The shortlist will be whittled down to 100 based on customer votes.

The judges will then take over, to determine the category winners, and the results will be announced at the gala dinner in London on November 19.

HALLOWEEN HOPES: The café plans to run events during half term

was vulnerable to pandemic restrictions that limited outdoor socialising. Later, when residents were free to travel, lower footfall in the park also affected takings. Then a thief hacked The Inside’s card payment account in Easter 2023. With a notice period to serve, Ms Parker told the Times she was not sure when the business would finally close.

But she added: “I definitely want to be open Friday to Monday through September and October – transforming the inside into our annual haunted house and pumpkin trail during our October school holiday.”

The Inside café is next to Calverley Adventure Grounds. Follow them on Instagram at @the.inside.tw or on Facebook at The_inside_tw.

One of the judges, Wadhurst-based George Shaw of Avocado Media, is a former BBC journalist and restaurant inspector for the Good Food Guide.

The annual industry event, run by the Asian Curry Federation (ACF), recognises the full range of Asian and Oriental cuisines: Bangladeshi, Burmese, Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Malaysian, Middle Eastern, Pakistani, Singaporean, Sri Lankan, Thai, Turkish and Vietnamese. Customers can vote online at asiancurryawards.com/vote.

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GEORGE SHAW

Water companies to pay £114million for missing performance targets

WATER companies will pay out a net total of £114 million to bill-payers after failing to meet key targets on reducing pollution, leakage and supply interruptions while customer satisfaction continues to fall, Ofwat has said.

Not one company achieved the regulator’s top category of “leading” while Dwr Cymru, Southern, Thames, Anglian, Bristol, South East and Yorkshire Water fell into the lowest category of “lagging”, and the remaining 10 were rated “average”.

Ofwat judges the performance of water companies in England and Wales each year against the “stretching” targets they set in 2019 for a five-year period until 2025. If they fail to meet these, Ofwat restricts the amount of money they can take from customers.

South East Water, which supplies 2.2 million people must pay out £5.2million.

Thames Water is the company which must return the most – more than £101million –followed by Southern Water, which must pay out £43million.

Thames Water serves 15 million people with water and wastewater while Southern Water serves around 4.6 million.

The net total industry amount of £114million is offset by some companies being rewarded, such as Severn Trent Water taking £88million and

United Utilities taking £25million. Ofwat said these figures are provisional until it completes the review process.

Since 2020, companies have shown improvements in reducing leakage and internal sewage, with all but one company achieving the target for unplanned outages, though progress has been too slow across the board, Ofwat said.

Over the last year, fewer than half of water companies reached their target on reducing pollution or met their commitment on leakage, with an overall decline in customer satisfaction.

Companies have also not fully invested their allowance for 2020-2023 for

Gatwick limits flights after air traffic control staffing problems

PASSENGERS flying from London Gatwick could face disruption this week after the airport said it would be limiting the number of journeys due to staff sickness and numbers in air traffic control.

A daily 800-flight limit, affecting both departures and arrivals, has been imposed from Monday 25 and will run until Sunday.

London Gatwick Chief Executive Stewart Wingate said it was “a difficult decision”, but that it was needed to create “reliable flight programmes” amid ongoing work with NATS (National Air Traffic Services) to “build resilience in the control tower”. The cap has been imposed as 30 per cent of NATS tower staff are unavailable for a variety of medical reasons, including Covid. The daily cap is to prevent last-minute cancellations and delays for passengers, who are being told to check with their airlines about their flights.

Mr Wingate said: “This has been a difficult decision but the action we have taken today

means our airlines can fly reliable flight programmes, which gives passengers more certainty that they will not face last-minute cancellations.”

NATS apologised to passengers in a statement: “We have worked very closely with Gatwick Airport throughout. Given the levels of sickness we have experienced over the last few weeks we believe it is the responsible thing to do to limit the number of flights this week in order to reduce the risk of daily disruption to passengers using the airport.”

Johan Lundgren, the Chief Executive of easyJet, said: “While it is regrettable that a temporary limit on capacity at Gatwick Airport is required, we believe that it is the right action by the airport so on the day cancellations and delays can be avoided.

“Gatwick Airport and Nats now need to work on a longer-term plan so the resilience of ATC (air traffic control) at Gatwick is improved and fit for purpose.

improving services.

David Black, Ofwat CEO, said: “The targets we set for companies were designed to be stretching – to drive improvements for customers and the environment.

“However, our latest report shows they are falling short, leading to £114million being returned to customers through bill reductions.

“While that may be welcome to bill payers, it is very disappointing news for all who want to see the sector do better.

“It is not going to be easy for companies to regain public trust, but they have to start with better service for customers and the environment.

“We will continue to use all our powers to ensure the sector delivers better value.”

Ofwat said it is investigating all 11 water and wastewater companies with live enforcement cases for six companies for potential failures on sewage discharges into the environment.

Leakage

They are also investigating Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water) and South West Water in relation to the accuracy of leakage reporting and per capita consumption.

Mike Keil, senior director at the Consumer Council for Water, said: “Customers are tired of not getting the service they deserve for the things they care about.

“It’s right and fair that people get their money back when they don’t receive the services they were promised by some water companies. People want assurance that their water bill is good value for money.”

A Water UK spokesperson said: “Today’s figures show that, in many areas, there have been significant improvements since the start of the decade.

“There were fewer incidents of serious pollution and less leakage from our ageing water infrastructure. However, companies recognise there is still much more to do to meet the regulator’s ever-tightening targets.

Boat captain found guilty in Hungary over fatal 2019 Danube River collision

THE captain of a river cruise boat that collided with another vessel in Hungary’s capital in 2019, killing at least 27 people, has been found guilty of negligence leading to a fatal mass catastrophe and sentenced to five years and six months in prison.

Judge Leona Nemeth with the Pest Central District Court found that the negligence of the captain, Ukrainian Yuriy Chaplinsky, had caused his river cruise boat, the Viking Sigyn, to collide with the tourist boat Hableany (Mermaid) from behind, causing it to sink into the Danube River.

Acquitted

The court acquitted Chaplinsky of 35 counts of failure to render aid. The collision occurred May 29 2019, when the Hableany, carrying mostly South Korean tourists, sank after being struck beneath Budapest’s Margit Bridge by the much larger Viking Sigyn.

Seven South Koreans were rescued from the water in the heavy rain following the collision, and 27 people died including the two-member Hungarian crew. One South Korean is still unaccounted for.

Some of the victims’ bodies were found weeks after the crash more than 100km (60 miles) downstream.

Chaplinsky, the captain of the Viking Sigyn, had been in police custody since the collision, including being remanded to house arrest in Hungary since 2020. Part of the time Chaplinksy has already served will

count toward his five-year sentence.

In a final statement before the verdict Tuesday, Chaplinksy called the collision a “horrible tragedy” and said that the deaths of “so many innocent victims” kept him awake at night.

After the proceedings, Zsolt Sogor, a lawyer with the prosecution, said the verdict was in line with legal requirements, but that prosecutors believed Chaplinsky was liable for failing to render aid to the Hableany after the collision.

“I feel sorry for this person. He really did commit (this act) negligently,” Mr Sogor said. “But our opinion differs from that of the court in that according to our perspective, the captain of a ship must act. It’s not enough that his sailors go and perform a rescue. He should have co-ordinated the entire rescue to save human lives.

LEAKING MONEY: Water flooding on to Mount Ephraim Road in July this year

Picture: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

Picture: Twitter/@BookingAdviser

Jackson Managing Director

Ellen Neville

The Alliance

Elected Alliance councillor for Hawkhurst and Sandhurst in May 2022, Ellen Neville is Cabinet Member for Environmental Services. She has lived in the area for most of her life, working and raising a family here, too

Getting elected is only the beginning of the story

AS we see election campaigns taking shape and the chess board being set, I can say emphatically that getting elected is not the end of the story, but the beginning.

To effect significant change, it takes collaboration and councillors who are not afraid to change the traditional relationship with residents.

They must be prepared to embrace far-ranging discussions about what their village or town wants, and then to be creative in how to get there. This will sometimes mean that there are very, very difficult and complex decisions to be made, especially in the foundation days when inheriting a council administration that has been under the same national party’s control for decades.

The Alliance’s ever-evolving journey into local politics has highlighted a lot of things; most notably that our residents are interested in the politics where they live, but are put off by the confrontational politics of Westminster.

Greater resident participation is an Alliance goal throughout the municipal

year and we seek to do this because by empowering the community together we can make it a better place to live. That’s a local priority for everyone. However, we shouldn’t ignore the fact that we now have entrenched austerity, forcing us to accept less and dwindling our reserves financially,

physically and mentally. My question to all is: “Is this the best we deserve?”

With the population of the Borough remaining stable, we face a shifting demographic that could alter the face of our communities. Our young adults are leaving for a number of reasons. We want to make our young people feel heard and

The Times of Tunbridge Wells is seeking a talented Chief Reporter to join our dedicated team.

As an experienced journalist, you will have previous experience writing news stories. You will also know how to hunt down leads to get the best story possible.

The ideal candidate will preferably:

● Live locally and have an understanding of how Tunbridge Wells works.

● Be a newshound with a nose for a story and a great general knowledge.

● Be able to work to tight deadlines while juggling multiple tasks and stories.

● An understanding of newspaper and online media processes.

● Be a team player.

● Have a sense of humour under pressure!

If the opportunity intrigues you, please forward your resume to the Editor, Michelle Wood, at: michelle.wood@onemediauk.co.uk, along with any example that best illustrate your writing.

invested in their communities, which is why we are celebrating Local Democracy Week from October 9-15 this year with young people in mind.

Local Democracy Week promotes and fosters democratic participation at a local level through public initiatives which involve citizens. It is a pan-European event targeted specifically at local authorities and associations.

free event for young people between the ages of 15 and 19 who attend school in the borough. It takes place in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, Tunbridge Wells. Twenty-four students from three local schools will debate three topics with members of the Council. Our Deputy Mayor will Chair the meeting in his robes. The topics will offer some background information with the very real scenario that budgets have been cut and services are under pressure.

The hypothetical topics debated and voted on for the day will be:

• The Council is proposing to shut Calverley Grounds in order to continue funding the local swimming pools.

• A new tax on chewing gum sales is proposed to help pay for street cleaning.

• Should we change the voting age to 16 years with a cap at 80 years?

If you want to know more about our local priorities and the work we do as independent councillors then please

‘Local Democracy Week promotes and fosters democratic participation at a local level through public initiatives which involve citizens’

And another thing…

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

Indoor games will help prevent the isolation of all generations

I SO agree with much of Dr Bullion’s letter (Times, September 20). For several years I have thought how sad it was that the marvellous indoor games for young people (and older people ) seem lost for ever...

I have been in pubs and can imagine the difference there would be if pub rooms were used for all of these wonderful, fun indoor games that I had when I was I was a teen at boarding school. They are suitable for groups of all ages from, say 12 years to 90-odd years. Young people can play together, as can older ones, or they can mix.

I am not young, and over many years I have forgotten what the games are called or how they are played, but I am sure that if someone searches online, they will find them. I suspect some people will know them. Parents, teachers… young people… find them. They can change your lives! They bring much excitement and laughter. Get those indoor games going in as many

A few weeks ago, readers might well have read my observations about the apparent lack of promotion and facilities provided by

places as possible, and youth crime will crash. Games bring such joy, and exercise the mind and body. Interaction promotes new friendships.

Bring back card playing, too! All young people should be taught to play cards. Play in pubs or halls or homes… just play! Just do it!

These indoor activities will help prevent the isolation of both younger and older people.

James Linden Tunbridge Wells

the Council to encourage tourists to visit Tunbridge Wells.

It is accepted that the allocated budget is restrictive and could perhaps be considered an inadequate reflection of its importance with regard to the prestige, employment and revenue tourism brings to the town. Their subsequent response appeared to be an encouraging prospect.

This appeared in a subsequent report by this paper in which readers were advised that despite the shortcomings, things were happening. Training was being provided. Liaison was with other groups. New pamphlets were being printed or updated.

However in reality it would seem to me that one of the most obvious (and visual) ways to demonstrate the issue is being

PEPPY SAYS...

taken seriously, and practically demonstrate that someone is actually doing something with renewed impetus, would be to simply remove the ‘Tourist Information’ signs that are still located on The Pantiles, and have been misleading tourists at a key coach drop-off point, for what must be the past two years now.

The photo (centre, left) was taken on The Pantiles on September 22, 2023

Doctor Fossil Crowborough

Town in decline

It saddens me to witness the deterioration of our once wonderful town. Whether it is the litter in our streets, or the plague of graffiti, or the increasing number of speeding vehicles in our town, the message is clear: the respect for our living environment is missing in the absence of adequate policing. The sense that there is no comeuppance drives this bad behaviour! I have had occasion to visit other towns in Kent and East Sussex recently, and all have compared noticeably better than Tunbridge Wells in these respects.

Yet we are considered, in many ways, to be the ‘posh’ and attractive place to live. Well, this direction of travel, if not arrested, will quickly reverse that sentiment!

Martin Dawes Tunbridge Wells

Parking charges

We are staying near Antigua in Fuerteventura. In the last few days we’ve lunched in a small cove in Las Salinas, also Ginginamar right on the beach and, today, in Ajuy, a tiny hamlet on the beach.

They all have parking, and there is the opportunity to charge for it if they were so minded, but they do not, clearly valuing the tourists’ spending over the chance to make a few bob at every turn. Rinsing the tourist is short-sighted. It doesn’t do the locals’ humour much good, either.

Edward Baker

Tunbridge Wells

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

SELF-SERVING: Simon Hudson retired the other day and the local community media lit up, thanking him for his work. Nearly 300 people posted messages describing him as an ‘amazing person’ a ‘real pleasure’ and ‘a gentleman’. But Simon was not some high-flying business leader or the holder of some prestigious public office. He served on the checkout at a local Waitrose supermarket. Calverley often saw shoppers queuing just to check out through Simon. That spontaneous outpouring of love and affection by hundreds of shoppers quite restored Calverley’s faith in human nature. Forget politicians and the like. In the world of real people, if you care to look, all is well.

BAN SCHOOL RUNS: Never mind the ULEZ scheme introduced to cut emissions by charging drivers £12.50 a day to enter London in older vehicles. Calverley has a much better way to save the planet. End school runs where kids who often live almost next door to the school are ferried to and fro by lazy parents. Make it an offence to block up the school gates unless you live say two miles from the school. Blue badge holders can be exempted. The nationwide ban would reduce emissions more than any scatty ULEZ idea. And it will make kids and parents healthier. Now discuss!

STRIKING COINCIDENCE: Calverley notes that unions are not calling train strikes during the Labour Party Conference. There are two strikes timed for the Tory gathering. Anyone surprised?

WATCH OUT: Imagine walking around the town centre with a see-through plastic bag tied to your wrist carrying £20,000 in cash. Impossible? Well, that’s pretty much what’s happening with people wearing expensive watches. Last week saw reports of a watch worth £80,000 snatched from a wrist. For the record and before the letters, Calverley believes you should be able to wear expensive jewellery and not feel threatened. But that’s not where society is today during a cost of living crisis.

VIRTUE NONSENSE: Calverley was mortified watching Antiques Roadshow when two women took along a robe given to their grandfather by the Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie – the man was once Governor of British Somaliland. Valuer Ronnie Archer-Morgan asked if they’d be happy to repatriate the item (because of slavery issues). What total virtue-signalling nonsense. Calverley bets that Mr Double Barrel has things in his sideboard he would not want to send back! The BBC should have edited out the question. But, again, no surprise from Woke Land.

FINAL THOUGHT: There’s one way to end the debate about state pensions being triple linked to inflation – tie them into MP salary increases. What could be fairer?

Tourism Tunbridge Wells

Pic: Shutterstock

Valuable lessons on how pupils can succeed both in and also beyond the classroom...

“KENT College is on a mission to ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to find their strengths and talents and become equipped for very bright futures,” declares Katrina Handford, Head of the prestigious independent day and boarding girls’ school in Pembury.

“That is why I have set the challenge of ensuring everything the school does is designed to help pupils prepare for the future by supporting them to become well-rounded, globally aware and equipped with the necessary skills to excel in their lives beyond school.”

Contributions

She adds that girls are encouraged to make purposeful contributions as global citizens by providing a future-focused, creative and adventurous approach to life and learning.

“In textiles lessons for example, pupils learn about the sustainability and the source of the fabric, as well as designing unique pieces from bags to clothes, before developing a marketing plan to sell the products.

“In maths, pupils have connected with our local Metro Bank to learn about interest rates, mortgages and investments, courtesy of visits both to and from the bank.”

We are delighted that our son had the opportunity to work with Stuart... we would wholeheartedly recommend his services

Ms Handford further explains some of the other educational initiatives in place at the school which welcomes girls from aged 11 to 18.

“The Tenner Challenge run by Kent College’s Business Department has seen pupils create their own businesses from scratch and as part of their enrichment programme, Sixth Formers at the school

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participate in the Ivy House Award, which is a transformational personal and professional development programme with the key aim of developing extraordinary leaders.”

The school underwent a full Educational Quality and Compliance Inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate earlier this summer and was deemed to be ‘excellent’ in both academic achievement and personal development. This is the highest possible grading available.

The report also concluded that the school was fully compliant with the Independent Schools Standards, including the National Minimum Standards for Boarding and the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Key highlights from the report showed that Kent College made rapid progress in their learning and consequently achieved highly in public examinations.

Pupils were also regarded to be highly confident and well-prepared for the next stage of their lives.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY: Senior School Open Morning on Saturday October 7 2023.

Not surprisingly, the top apprenticeships are competitive with the most popular being massively oversubscribed. This means only the best prepared are likely to be successful!

We Can Help

EDP has successfully helped students prepare for topflight apprenticeship or graduate programme interviews, through our tried and tested Apprenticeship Preparation Sessions Building:

• Understanding

• Skills

• Practice www.edupartnerships.com

– Irene Santineer

Following the news that Kent College Pembury has been awarded the highest possible grading of ‘excellent’ after a full Educational Quality and Compliance Inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, the school’s Head Katrina Handford tells the Times about its unique educational ethos…

‘I have set the challenge of ensuring everything Kent College does is designed to help pupils prepare for the future’

KATRINA HANDFORD

Buy into an idyllic Kent village lifestyle

IF you’ve ever dreamt of an idyllic lifestyle in the classic Kent village of Matfield, now is your chance to make it a reality at Rosewood Place. With just two fourbedroom detached homes remaining, prospective buyers must act quickly to secure one of these exceptional properties; both of which are ready to move into now.

Breathtaking

Beth King, Sales Manager comments:

“Rosewood Place is a truly special development with breathtaking nature at its heart. We have carefully designed landscaped grounds, a children’s play area, orchards and a natural pond to create a real sense of place for our clients.

We can’t wait to move new homeowners into these final two houses. They are ready and waiting to be turned into a home!”

Rosewood Place comprises of a mixture of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes. Due to impressive sales, there are just two four-bedroom homes remaining. Both benefit from private driveways with carports and are tucked away in a cul-desac, overlooking the pond and surrounding meadow. The high specification includes integrated appliances, sleek finishes and bright, airy interiors.

Prices at Rosewood Place start from £689,500. For more information on the homes available visit fernham-homes. co.uk/our-developments/rosewoodplace/

RECOMMENDAFRIEND toreceive upto£5,000*!

An exciting development of just 30 one, two, three and four bedroom homes located in the heart of Ticehurst Village, offering modern country living in an enviable setting. We are open 7 days a week for viewings of our showhomes and homes ready for occupation, book your appointment today.

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Final two 4 bedroom detached homes set within and overlooking an ecological haven. These homes are ready and waiting for you now. Contact Lambert & Foster for viewings.

Prices from £689,500 01892 570225

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Part exchange* now available at The Glade

You are one step closer to owning a luxurious new townhouse at The Glade in Royal Tunbridge Wells, thanks to the introduction of part exchange*. We’ll become your buyer so you don’t have to sell on the open market.

Why

• 4 storeys of immaculate accommodation

• 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms

• Luxury kitchen with separate utility room

• Integral garage with EV charging point

• Private garden

• Walking distance to mainline train station & The Pantiles

Prices in excess of £900,000

Please call Wood & Pilcher on 01892 511211 to discuss part exchange or to visit The Glade.

‘We’re so thrilled to be directing this unique piece of theatrical history’

Hemsted Park, Benenden School’s impressive new arts venue, opened at the end of last year with a successful season that included the likes of the BBC Big Band, jazz legends Ronnie Scott’s All Stars and TV quizzer-turned-comedian Paul Sinha all performing there. The new season starts this Saturday (September 30) so Eileen Leahy looks at the bill, which includes Oh What a Lovely War

Last September the prestigious independent girls’ school Benenden revealed its new Centenary Buildings development, which was designed by the multi-award-winning Kent-based Guy Hollaway Architects, and is now able to host touring theatre companies and external events.

“The Centenary Buildings are an outstanding addition to one of the most beautiful areas of the school grounds,” a spokesperson for the school told us at the time of their completion.

They comprise a light and airy atrium, smaller recital room, a Music School and the main Centenary Hall – an 800-seater multi-purpose space that has established itself as one of the foremost concert halls in the South East.

“The space offers state-of-the-art acoustics and gives audiences a truly impressive performance experience,” the spokesperson added.

The new theatre is called Hemsted Park and since it opened its doors late last year it has welcomed the likes of TV quizzerturned-comedian Paul Sinha, jazz singer Claire Martin, the BBC Big Band and the English National Opera. Its second season starts this coming Saturday on September 30 with a special screening of A Little Life, which was on at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London earlier

UPCOMING EVENTS AT HEMSTED PARK

A Little Life

Cinema Screening – The Benenden Theatre, Saturday September 30, 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Tickets £13-£15

Oh, What a Lovely War

The Benenden Theatre, Saturday October 7, 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Tickets £17-£20

Kidenza – Pieces of Eight

Centenary Hall, Sunday October 15, 4pm. Tickets £10-£15

The Great Think Pink Show

The Benenden Theatre, Friday October 20, 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50

Kinder Centenary Hall, Monday and Tuesday October 23 and 24, multiple timeslots.

Tickets £15

The Sleeping Beauty

The Benenden Theatre. Friday October 27, 1pm. Tickets £10-£15

Gary Delaney – Gary in Punderland

The Benenden Theatre. Saturday October 28, 7.30pm. Tickets £21

A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings

The Benenden Theatre. Friday November 3, 7pm. Tickets £15

Trio Bohemo

Centenary Hall, Thursday November 16, 7.30pm. Tickets £17-£22

Angela Hewitt – Piano Recital

Centenary Hall, Sunday November 19, 5pm. Tickets £25-£33

Swinging at the Cotton Club

Centenary Hall. Saturday 25th November, 7.30pm. Tickets £21-£25

The Jazz Sapiens

Centenary Hall. Friday 8th December, 7pm. Tickets £22- £24

Christmas with the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra

Centenary Hall, Friday 15th December, 7.30pm. Tickets £21-£27

All tickets available from: hemstedpark.com/events

this year. Based on the 2015 novel by American writer Hanya Yanagihara and starring Happy Valley’s James Norton and Bridgerton’s Luke Thompson, it’s been one of the most talked-about West End performances in years. You can go along on Saturday if you want to find out why…

The next performance will be a touring production of Oh! What A Lovely War on October 7, which is coming to Hemsted Park as part of its 60th-anniversary tour courtesy of Blackeyed Theatre.

This cornerstone of modern musical theatre – and one of the very greatest stage satires was conceived and developed by Joan Littlewood and her Theatre Workshop in 1963.

Years later it still remains a classic of modern theatre with a fusion of timeless songs – including ‘Pack Up Your Troubles’ and ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’ – as well as razor-sharp satire and high jinks, offering a satirical account of the First World War as seen through the eyes of the common soldier.

Visually stunning, and deeply moving, the show’s cast includes Christopher Arkeston, Tom Crabtree, Harry Curley and Alice E Mayer. The production is directed by Nicky Allpress with musical direction by Ellie Verkerk and movement direction

BEHIND THE LINES: Rehearsals for Oh! What a Lovely War

by Adam Haigh.

Director Nicky Allpress comments: “I’m so thrilled to be directing this unique piece of theatrical history, having followed Blackeyed Theatre and their extraordinary work for many years.

“One of the most exciting things about Oh! What a Lovely War is how universal, timeless, and ever-relevant it is, and a testament to the brilliance of the work is how it can bear endless reinterpretation. Our concept will explore the idea of war as a circus, with an incredibly talented company of actor-musicians bringing Joan Littlewood's ground-breaking classic to life with music, comedy, and stories.”

This production is appropriate for those aged 11 years old and upwards and there will be a matinee performance at 2.30pm as well as an evening show at 7.30pm.

See our breakout on the other shows you can see at Hemsted Park this season, which include comedian Gary Delaney’s Gary in Punderland, the Trio Bohemo, Sleeping Beauty, the Jazz Sapiens and Christmas with the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra.

For details, visit: hemstedpark.com Box office: boxoffice@hemstedpark.com Tel: 01580 236699

MON 20 NOV | 7.30PM

ASSEMBLYHALLTHEATRE.CO.UK

Assembly Hall Theatre | Tunbridge Wells

01892 530613

WED 22 NOV | 7.30PM

ASSEMBLYHALLTHEATRE.CO.UK

Assembly Hall Theatre | Tunbridge Wells

01892 530613

Times reporter Grace Corcoran picks three reads for your week

On the bookshelf this week, the latest spy thriller from ‘Slough House’ creator Mick Herron, Beth O’Leary returns with another slice of modern comedy romance in ‘The Wake-up Call’ and Anglo-Saxon kings and queens are brought to life by Cat Jarman in ‘The Bone Chests’…

The Secret Hours by Mick Herron

Published in hardback by Baskerville, priced £22

A break-in followed by an adrenaline-fuelled chase through Devon woods propels this tightly and satisfyingly plotted story into action. It then focuses on Monochrome – an inquiry into the secret service which is going nowhere. Suddenly, a file appears and a witness comes in to testify about the goings-on in Berlin just after the fall of the wall. Avoiding plot spoilers, things get even more intricate. Safe to say Herron’s trademark humour is woven in throughout, and it’s clear who some of the digs are aimed at. Big issues come under the spotlight: who owns your data, identity, loyalty, truth and realpolitik, but all the characters feel human and individual. Though it’s described as a standalone and can easily be read as such, lovers of the ‘Slough House’ series will pick up on some familiar characters being illuminated in new ways.

Review by Bridie Pritchard

The Wake-up Call by Beth O’Leary

Published in hardback by Quercus, priced £16.99

Beth O’Leary, the queen of complicated relationships, is back. The backdrop of this two-handed tale is a formerly popular hotel, failing in the wake of lockdown. Artistic Izzy, grasping at straws to save the hotel and her job, sets herself the mission to return a lost wedding ring and in the process receives a large reward. Stoic Lucas is more methodical, but finds himself in competition with Izzy to return the remaining rings in the lost property box, hoping that another monetary reward will save the hotel from closing. Izzy and Lucas are loyal to the hotel yet somehow rub each other the wrong way. O’Leary keeps the enemies-turned-lovers story fresh by exploring events from both sides, and the short chapters keep the story moving like a rom-com film.

Review by Rachel Howdle

The Bone Chests by Cat Jarman

Published in hardback by Kyle Books, priced £22

‘The Bone Chests’ provides an engaging, readable history of England’s pre-Conquest monarchs, from famous figures such as Alfred the Great and Aethelred the Unready, to long-forgotten kings Cynegils and Centwine, linked through the story of the chests reputed to contain some of their bones in Winchester Cathedral. It is a period that previous centuries have looked to for inspiration but has more recently fallen out of public consciousness, and for that alone the book is worth reading. But unlike Cat Jarman’s previous outing – the excellent ‘River Kings’ – it lacks a clear, overall argument, with the theme of how living rulers used the mortal remains of their predecessors for political purposes fading in and out of focus and leaving the book as, mainly, a straightforward account of ancient kings and queens.

Review by Christopher McKeon

There is no obligation to sell, so call Clive Today to arrange a home visit at no charge and at your convenience. He will advise you personally on your items and absolute discretion is guaranteed.

Our seminar to assist family conversations about Inheritance Tax

Panoramic Wealth are hosting an event to help you protect your family’s legacy, reduce any Inheritance Tax liability and approach one of life’s trickiest conversations.

Sometimes the hardest questions to ask are the most important. For many families, the topic of how the next generations will inherit wealth is often a taboo subject. The conversation is usually deferred to a time where it may be too late to act or potentially never addressed at all. The conversation to be had is typically between parents and children but has equal importance for couples who are unmarried or those not in a Civil Partnership.

Where are you with your conversations?

A typical reaction is that Inheritance Tax (IHT) won’t affect me or my family. In reality, the largest single beneficiary of an Estate is often not your family, or your favoured charity but HMRC.

Traditionally speaking, people find it quite difficult to speak about money. However, by engaging in conversation and forward planning this could avoid beneficiaries losing out on hundreds of thousands of pounds.

At our seminar (see details below), we will be looking to help you start that all important conversation. As such, our day would be suitable for all family members, be they grandparents, parents or adult children. We will be aiming to give you an idea on what is practically possible in IHT mitigation.

Make sure you are not sleepwalking into leaving an Inheritance Tax Liability that could have been avoided.

What is the extent of the problem?

Currently, married couples or civil partners can, in the right circumstances, pass on assets of up to £1 million to the next generation. However, with property values the

way they are, the value of a house alone can absorb this £1 million “threshold”. So, the family of a couple with an estate of £2 million could be faced with an IHT bill of £400,000.

Remember that passing on assets is not just about money. Much of these will be treasured assets or heirlooms that make up part of your family history. Most of these items will not be exempt from IHT and their values will therefore increase the overall IHT liability on your death, potentially needing to be sold to fund the liability.

So, what questions should you be addressing?

● How much IHT is your Estate likely to suffer?

● Have I left it too late to do any IHT Planning? (It is never too late to consider IHT planning.)

● What action can be taken now to increase the amount my heirs inherit?

● How long do I have to live for funds to be out of my estate?

● What issues should I consider before making lifetime gifts to the family?

● Can I give money away but still retain control and decide who benefits?

● Can I give away assets yet still enjoy access or income from them?

● Why is there likely to be a dramatic increase in IHT if you sell a private business?

● How are pensions treated for IHT purposes and how can they effectively be passed on to the next generation?

● Can I leave funds to charities and also benefit my other beneficiaries?

● Should I even think about giving money away if I might require later life care?

The seminar will be provided on a no charge basis. Its main objective is to provide you with relevant information on which you can make decisions. It will be hosted by Gary Jefferies, Chartered Financial Planner, and MD of his family-owned financial planning firm; Panoramic Wealth based in Tunbridge Wells. He will be alongside John Woolley, a consultant who has a number of legal and tax qualifications including being a qualified TEP, a barrister, a fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute and a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation.

Together, they will not only explain how it all works but highlight planning opportunities through a real-life case study. In addition to this, they will be able answer any questions you may have.

This will leave you in a position to understand how IHT works and, where appropriate, protect your Estate and greatly reduce the IHT your family will need to pay on your death.

GaryJefferiesJohnWoolley

To register, please email us on journey@panoramicwealth.co.uk, phone us on 01892 559555, or alternatively scan the QR code.

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. Our experience allows us to guide you on some important steps you can take to help alleviate the impact on you of the divorce/separation process:

Separation and divorce are often emotionally charged events that can leave you feeling lost, frustrated, and uncertain. During such challenging times, you need more than just legal advice; you require a comprehensive support system that upholds your best interests and grants you the peace of mind to navigate through the ordeal with confidence.

HAVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE

AROUND YOU

This is where our expert divorce services come into play. At Thomas Mansfield Family Law, we understand the intricacies of divorce law and family matters like the back of our hand. Based locally in Tunbridge Wells, our solicitors have decades of experience guiding individuals through the divorce process, and we know that helping our clients prepare for divorce is one of the most important stages in the process.

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.

BE PREPARED

Go into divorce with your eyes wide open. That means

Imagine you’re about to run a marathon. Would you show up at the starting line without months of preparation? Similarly, in the case of divorce, coming prepared means you’re less likely to trip over obstacles that could lead to financial hardships, emotional turmoil, or complications with child custody. Lack of preparation could not only prolong the process but also impact the outcome significantly.

Financial readiness

One of the biggest concerns during a divorce is finances. Assets, debts, and ongoing responsibilities need to be accurately represented. Gathering financial documents might be the last thing on your mind in emotional times, but being prepared gives you a vantage point in negotiations. Our experts will assist you in collating essential financial documents, helping you plan for a sustainable future beyond divorce.

Emotional resilience

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.

CONSIDER MEDIATION

Divorce can be emotionally draining, and it’s easy to make impulsive decisions you may later regret. A key part of preparation involves building emotional resilience. We work closely with qualified therapists and counsellors to offer you emotional support alongside legal assistance. We aim to provide a comprehensive service that cares for your well-being at every step of the journey.

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

Child centered approach

For couples with children, navigating the complexities of custody and co-parenting agreements is another challenge. Being prepared in this context means considering the best

interests of your children first. Our team specialises in child custody negotiations, aiming to produce the least disruptive arrangements for the young lives affected by divorce.

What our clients say

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.

ACCEPT THAT DIVORCE WON’T BE EASY

and promote cooperation, ensuring that the process is as stress-free as possible. We’ll listen to you, understand your needs, and work diligently to achieve the best outcome for you and your family.

PUT YOUR CHILDREN FIRST

“Simplicity, listening and professionalism. At a very stressful time the whole process was made clear, helpful and concise.” Camille

“Kate and her team were beyond professional, always there for me and I know they genuinely cared not only about achieving the best outcome but actually about me and my well-being.” Tracey

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 interests?

“Clear communications, and an honest and authentic response to challenging questions. They also listen, and properly listen, to concerns. I always felt that I received excellent guidance and understood the options before me.” Bill

Our approach

We believe

Sometimes this means backing down when you don’t want to, and that can be hard. But keep sight of the bigger picture.

If you find yourself facing the difficult decision of divorce, make sure you have the right team by your side. At Thomas Mansfield Family Law, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.

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.

Contact us today for a free call back.

Contact us today to talk about your situation.

WELLS

True colours – now is the time for orange wine

Pink has a new rival. Distinctive, dry orange wine made by fermenting white grapes, but with extended contact (long maceration) – as with red winemaking – between skins, pips, occasionally stems, and juice. This can turn out anything from subdued golden to bright gold or orange-coloured wines. Here I’ve chosen six food-friendly bottles that aren’t over the top as regards astringency, tannin, chewiness and funkiness.

1. 2021 Luis Felipe Edwards, Macerao Naranjo Orange Wine, Itata Valley, Chile (£8.99, Waitrose, waitrose.com, 12.5%)

With a lattice of supple astringency and a tickle of black tea, this well-crafted, unfiltered orange blossom, apricot, pear, honey, marmalade and quince-scented ‘vino de Naranja (orange wine) gets my vote. It’s made from old bush-vine Moscatel de Alejandría grapes grown in southern Chile’s cool and beautiful Itata Valley. Macerated on skins for 90 days. Open for tapas and smoked fish.

2. 2021 Tbilvino Qvevris Orange Wine, Kakheti, Georgia (£10, M&S, marksandspencer.com, 12%)

You can’t discuss skin-contact orange wine without trying a bottle from Georgia, where it’s believed to have originated. Superb quince fruit, smoky spice and pear-styled 2021 dry orange wine from Kakheti, in the

foothills of the Caucasus, Georgia. Coldhardy Rkatsiteli grapes were skinfermented in qvevri – uniquely large Georgian clay vessels lined with beeswax, then buried underground – an 8,000-yearold practice for making red and white wines. Try this textbook, personality-laden orange wine, which has a little tannic bristle, with Stinking Bishop or roast pork.

3. 2021 Didebuli Orange Kisi Amber Dry, Kakheti, Georgia (£10.50, The Wine Society, thewinesociety.com, 12.5%)

A delightfully drinkable, headily perfumed,

Times Drinks Editor James Viner

nutty, apricot and orange peel of a Georgian ‘amber wine’ here, with ample concentration and low tannins, but keen acidity and verve too. A joyous off-piste winner with seafood.

4. 2022 Litmus Orange Bacchus, Surrey, England (£17.49, Grape Britannia, grapebritannia.co.uk, 12.5%)

This is a glorious, faintly tannic, non-feral, fennel, hazelnut, stone fruit and elderflower-scented star of a skinfermented Bacchus from Dorking, Surrey. The grapes were fermented and remained

on skins without SO2 for four weeks. Just the ticket for aged Comté and Middle Eastern meze. Smart and faintly funky. Take a bow, winemaker John Worontschak.

5. 2020 Gérard Bertrand Organic Orange Gold, Occitanie, France (£19, Ocado, ocado.com, 13%)

Nab this seductive, elite Languedoc six-grape blend with flutters of dried apricot, nectarine, lemongrass, orange blossom, pink grapefruit, white pepper and potpourri. It’s detailed, only lightly astringent but most of all, clean and delicious – and its sunset hue colour and striking bottle will appeal to trend-setting Instagrammers! One for spicy Thai/Indian dishes and charcuterie. Santé!

6. 2022 Denbies Wine Estate Orange Solaris, Surrey, England (£28.25, Denbies, denbies.co.uk, 12.5%)

Anyone tucking into this delightful homegrown amber-gold orange wine with a spicy lamb casserole, steak frites, lightly spiced Asian cuisine, grilled meats or pork belly will have a great time. Think jackfruit, guava, pineapple, dried orange rind, clementine and baked apple. Made from the early-ripening Solaris grape, it was left to macerate on its skins for seven months before being pressed. Resonates clean and long.

@QuixoticWines

When it comes to wines, orange is the new rival to pink, says

Turkish delights in the heart of Tunbridge Wellss

By Sharon Bruce

ZORBA Meze and Grill, or ‘Zorba’s’, as it is known locally, has been delighting foodies in Tunbridge Wells with its take on traditional Turkish cuisine for the last six years.

Relaxed dining may be an over-used term, but Turkish cuisine cannot be enjoyed in anything other than a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. With its contemporary, yet light and inviting decor and an outside seating area perfect for warmer days, Zorba’s is perfectly positioned in the town centre for easy access. But with the weather becoming increasingly crisp, if you’re looking for a cosy restaurant offering warming, delicious soul food, Zorba’s fills the brief.

When we wandered in late on a Saturday afternoon, we were greeted warmly by Manager Onur Sahin and his team.

To set the mood, we ordered a Passionfruit Martini and a classic Long Island Iced Tea (2-for-1 cocktails from Sunday to Thursday, £12). The Martini is exquisite, served with fresh granadilla and a shot of Prosecco, which cuts through the sweetness with a delightful fizz.

The Long Island Iced Tea has another personality altogether. After many years of ordering half-hearted, cloyingly sweet attempts at a Long Island – an incorrect mix of spirits, often missing the lime – this one certainly did the trick. If you’re looking for a serious attitude adjuster, this is the drink that will do it.

We began our meal with some of Zorba’s legendary hot and cold meze: calamari and tartare sauce, deep-fried brie, and my absolute favourite: baba ghanoush –creamy, smoky and unbelievably moreish

– served with warm flatbread.

The flatbread alone is worth the visit, and one would be hard-pressed to find tastier Mediterranean bread in Kent.

The meze is a meal in itself, but we couldn’t help but be tempted by the warmer, autumnal offerings. Perfectly paired with a Cortefresca Pinot Grigio Rosé, I opted for the Chef’s Special: the kleftiko – lamb shank slow-roasted in the oven with carrots and onions in a demi-glaze and tomato sauce, served with mashed potato (£19.95). My partner chose the salmon –seasoned, and then grilled on a mangal

vowed that we would return for another meal, friends in tow.

Zorba Meze and Grill has recently taken on a new chef who is leaving his own distinctive mark on the restaurant.

Emre Ulku, is a cordon bleu-trained chef with extensive experience back in his native Turkey, as well as in the UK. He has had stints working for Radisson Hotels in London and spent some time at the second branch of Zorba’s in Lewes.

An affable man with the broadest of grins and an infectious passion for food, Emre has been a chef for 20 years. He was first

used to have to import everything, but nowadays, we are lucky enough to be able to get what we need within the country.”

But what is it that makes Turkish flavours so distinctive? “It’s the mangal,” Emre says with a smile. “And of course, the spices!” But what would Emre recommend from the menu?

“Any of the chef’s specials,” he says. “They are all superb!”

Among these are the delectable kleftiko, Izmir kofte (cylinder-shaped meatballs slowly cooked in the oven, with onions, carrots, potatoes, peppers, and peas in a rich tomato sauce (£15.95). Islim is another favourite: slices of aubergine wrapped around pulled lamb and chef’s special sauce, served on mashed potato (£16.95).

“We also have weekly specials,” Emre

(barbecue) and served on a mixed salad, with perfectly-cooked baby potatoes and asparagus (£20.95).

Both meals were simply outstanding

– sumptuous and decadent. The generous helping of kleftiko was fall-off-the-bone tender, steeped in a jus that offered the perfect blend of flavours without being too rich. Paired with perfectly cooked carrots and the creamiest mash, I have found the ultimate comfort food. The salmon was perfectly cooked, retaining the smokiness of the mangal and the zing of lemon. We

inspired to cook by his grandfather, who was a chef in Istanbul.

“I have always loved food,” he says with a huge smile.

When it comes to Zorba’s, Emre has all sorts of ideas: “The plan is to change the menu slowly,” he says.

“I want each menu to reflect the seasons, and to offer different flavours and tastes.”

But creating genuine Turkish flavours in an English setting can’t be easy.

“We try to source all our meat and spices locally,” Emre says. “In the old days, we

says. “These play with Anatolian flavours and slow-cooking techniques, but the secret always lies in the marinade.”

Zorba’s is a gem in the town centre – and well worth a visit, whether for a lunch after a spot of shopping, or a special night out. Their extensive cocktail menu is well worth a try, too. You will certainly feel welcome at Zorba’s and the smiling faces are almost as much a draw to return as the high-quality food and fabulous service.

To make a reservation, phone 01892 530051 or visit: zorbamezegrill.com

EMRE ULKU

‘You will certainly feel welcome at Zorba’s and the smiling faces are almost as much a draw to return as the high-quality food and fabulous service’

Post-Covid, the bucket-list holiday has become increasingly important

Popularised by a 2007 film starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman as two men racing to realise ambitions before they ‘kicked the bucket’, the phrase ‘bucket list’ sums up a list of destinations we’d all love to visit before we die.

Prior to the pandemic, the term became a dirty by-word for over-tourism, as tourists flocked to the same honey-pot attractions. But confronting our own mortality – and being confined to our homes during the lockdowns – has resulted in a shift of opinion: now more and more of us are determined to tick off a list of once-in-alifetime holidays, regardless of how obvious and popular they might be.

Extraordinary

“Since Covid there’s been a realisation that people will never take travel for granted again, and we have a renewed appreciation that the incredible access we have to the world is extraordinary,” says Tom Marchant, owner and co-founder of Black Tomato.

“This appreciation and acknowledgment is manifesting as a determination to go big and travel like never before. The pandemic has made people appreciate what they were unable to do, and pine for things they’ve never done but want to do. While previously there were myriad reasons for people to put off realising their bucket list,

now, that has changed.”

According to Audley, almost threequarters of their bookings for 2023 were for a much-awaited bucket list trip. Likewise, escorted tours specialist Newmarket Holidays has seen a big increase in sales of wish-list holidays compared to 2019, and launched its 2025 long-haul programme in April to meet unprecedented demand.

“Pandemic restrictions have fuelled a desire to visit wish-list destinations, and escorted group trips to exotic locations mean travellers can join tours and

activities that have been carefully curated to take them beyond the guidebooks, at prices that benefit from group rates to keep them as low as possible,” says Newmarket’s CEO Niel Alobaidi. “No matter what hurdles this year throws at them, people keep on demonstrating a huge appetite to travel.”

So, which destinations and experiences have captivated travellers?

The wide open spaces of Canada

“We saw post-pandemic that the 60-plus age group were the last generally to start

In the wake of a global pandemic that made many people reflect on their lives, the adventurous travellers among us are embarking on once-in-a-lifetime experiences and unique holidays that we previously only dreamt of, says Sarah Marshall…

All pictures: Alamy/PA

THE LEMAIRE CHANNEL, ANTARCTIC PENINSULAR

LAKE, CANADA

to travel again – so therefore have missed out on more travelling than some of our younger clients,” says Mike Collins, managing director of Tropical Sky. “With savings in the bank from not travelling, we are seeing big trips being booked and taken. Canada has been at the forefront in 2023, as the train and tour trips provide great adventure, whilst still relatively safe with no language barriers. For 2024, we are seeing the surge in Canada bookings continue.”

Expedition cruises to polar regions

David Tanguay, Global Head of Sales for AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions), says the company has seen a 53 per cent increase in booked berths across their voyages to the polar regions, as well as the British Isles and Latin America. “This increase can be attributed to

several factors, including the desire to fully embrace bucket-list plans and travel to remote and wild places like Antarctica and the Arctic, free from large crowds and

full of opportunities for genuine adventure,” he says. “The company’s customer age bracket is also widening, with travellers in their early-40s up to their 90s joining expeditions.

“The younger demographic is often drawn to the company’s optional activity programme, which includes experiences such as skiing and alpine trekking, rock climbing, kayaking, snorkelling and diving, all in the polar regions. Several of these are unique in the expedition space and are often pivotal in decision-making.”

Seeing the Big Five on safari in Africa

“Spotting the Big Five in their natural habitat has always been a highlight for many travellers, however in the postpandemic era, the allure of these magnificent creatures is stronger than ever,” says Greg Fox, co-founder and Director of Mahlatini.

“The pristine wilderness of the Okavango Delta, the majestic Victoria Falls, the endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda and Uganda, the remote wildlife experiences in the republic of the Congo are all proving popular. Additionally,

Egypt’s rich historical treasures are experiencing a resurgence in popularity among globe-trotters.”

The company has also seen a surge of interest in East Africa’s wildebeest migration: comparing 2019 to 2022, Kenya bookings are up 56 per cent and Tanzania has increased by 42 per cent.

Witnessing the aurora in Scandinavia

Research from the Post Office found as many as 77 per cent of UK holidaymakers are planning to travel somewhere new in the next 12 months, with 82 per cent hoping to visit one of their dream travel destinations.

More than eight in 10 UK tourists have a travel bucket list, with seeing the Northern Lights (44 per cent) being the number one experience.

‘The pandemic has made people appreciate what they were unable to do, and pine for things they’ve never done but want to do’

NORTHERN LIGHTS, FINLAND

WILDEBEESTE IN THE SERENGETI, TANZANIA

Where to spot Santa in Tunbridge Wells this Christmas

CHRISTMAS is the perfect time of year to make family memories, and what better way than to meet the man in red himself?

From sharing breakfast with Santa to exploring an enchanting wonderland with his cheerful crew, Tunbridge Wells is buzzing with excitement as he makes his much-anticipated return this festive season.

Christmas at Bewl Water

Immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas wonderland at Bewl Water, where Santa and his crew have transformed the woodland into a magical adventure. Located in Lamberhurst, just a short 20-minute drive from Tunbridge Wells, this delightful experience is available from November 18 to December 24.

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Tickets start at £40 per child and £15 per adult, which includes car parking for the duration of the event.

Children can enjoy a variety of festive activities, including gingerbread decorating, creating reindeer food, writing letters to Santa, and Christmas crafts. Mischievous elves will entertain with storytelling performances, and families can explore the themed magical lands and play zones where there will be plenty of photo opportunities.

Refuel with delicious festive treats from the Candy Land sweet shop before your

private 10-minute visit to Santa’s Grotto. Here, children can share their Christmas wishes and, for those on the nice list, receive an early gift!

Note that booking times mark the start of your grotto visit, so be sure to arrive

two hours early to enjoy all the fun on offer. Wrap up warm as Christmas at Bewl Water takes place outside under marquees.

Visit christmas.bewlwater.co.uk to book your tickets.

Salomons Estate

From December 18 to 23, Salomons Estate, a grand Victorian manor house, welcomes you to their magical grotto for a festive treasure trail, gingerbread decorating, reindeer food making, and more. For just £20 per child (adults attend for free), families can enjoy a perfect day out. As an additional treat, dine with Santa on December 10, where a delectable threecourse Sunday roast awaits. On Christmas Eve, a full English breakfast is on offer, complete with Santa’s presence and a surprise for the children on his nice list. Visit salomons-estate.com to book your tickets.

One Warwick Park Hotel

On December 16 and 24, from 9.30am to 11.30am, One Warwick Park Hotel offers a magical breakfast with Santa experience. Tickets are priced at £18.50 per adult and £9.25 for children. Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast and a unique opportunity to meet Santa Claus. Engage in festive conversations, share Christmas wishes, and capture cherished moments with Santa.

Visit: onewarwickpark.co.uk to book your tickets.

‘Children can enjoy a variety of festive activities, including gingerbread decorating, creating reindeer food, writing letters to Santa, and Christmas crafts’

YOUR BUSINESS, OUR SAFE HANDS

Having

Tunbridge

P G Bowring & S Joubert is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society

Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A Member of the

G. Collins & Sons: a tradition of quality in handmade jewellery

IN an era where automation and mass production have become the norm, G. Collins & Sons is a shining example of a family business that remains committed to preserving tradition and craftsmanship in the world of jewellery.

Under the guidance of Director Josh Collins, the company is not only investing in its physical infrastructure by extending its workshop and retail space, but it is also very much focused on the future, with an unrelenting emphasis on quality with every piece they create.

The jewellery industry, like many others, has largely succumbed to machine-made manufacturing in far-off corners of the globe. But Josh’s commitment to maintaining the tradition of handmade British jewellery stands out.

“We create all our jewellery here in Royal Tunbridge Wells, by hand. It is the only way to ensure quality at the highest level, with

‘We create all our jewellery here in Royal Tunbridge Wells, by hand. It is the only way to ensure quality at the highest level’

intense attention to detail,” he explained. With a team of over 20 craftspeople, G. Collins & Sons remains one of the few jewellers with its own in-house workshop. They actively train and mentor young apprentices, passing on the intricate skills required to create

exquisite jewellery by hand. In doing so, they are not just creating masterpieces today; they are safeguarding an age-old tradition, ensuring that the artistry of handcrafted pieces is passed down through the generations. One of the hallmarks of G. Collins & Sons is their unwavering commitment to quality. This extends beyond the final product. It is also about the quality of the service they provide to their clients. Their dedication to creating unique, tailor-made masterpieces,

combined with personalised customer service has earned them a loyal clientele in all corners of the world.

In an industry where trends may come and go, G. Collins & Sons’ dedication to quality and craftsmanship remains steadfast. This family business is not just preserving tradition but actively breathing new life into it. In doing so, they are ensuring that the art of creating exquisite, handmade jewellery continues to shine for generations to come.

For further information, please telephone 01892 534018, email sales@gcollinsandsons.com or visit: gcollinsandsons.com

Mumma To Be Pilates

Mumma & Bubba Pilates

The Essentials Pilates Class

Celebrate at Salomons Estate this Christmas!

Christmas Wreath Workshops

Thursday 30th November from 6.30pm – 8:30pm £68 per person

Tickets include a mince pie and mulled wine

Christmas Day Lunch

Monday 25th December

Indulge in the ultimate Christmas Day feast in the stunning surroundings of our picturesque estate.

£97.50 per adult

£45.00 per child (12 and under)

Breakfast with Santa

Sunday 24th December

Enjoy a delicious full English breakfast on Christmas Eve! Experience a magical morning as he makes his way around to each table.

£20.00 per person (adult or child)

Christmas Parties

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what could be merrier than a tailor-made Christmas party for the ultimate festive do? Whether you’re in charge of making sure the office party is the best one yet or rounding up your nearest and dearest, our beautiful event spaces, delicious feasts and dedicated team promise an unforgettable Christmas celebration!

Friday 1st and Sunday 3rd December

Morning session 10:00am– 12:00pm £90 per person

Tickets include a glass of Buck’s fizz followed by Festive Afternoon Tea

Join the fabulous Rare Nature Design at their festive workshops at Salomons Estate. Design your very own wreath and tablescapes using provided equipment, foliage, and beautiful decorations.

Dine with Santa

Sunday 10th December

Join us for a delicious 3-course Sunday roast. Enjoy tales from Santa and his elves and a special surprise…

£35.00 per adult

£17.50 per child

Tables available from 12.00pm – 3.00pm (includes an early Christmas gift)

Festive Afternoon Teas

27th November – 16th December

Indulge in the spirit of Christmas with a delicious afternoon tea and savour a selection of seasonal delights.

£25.00 Traditional Tea

£30.00 Prosecco Tea

£17.50 per child

Experience

Thursday 14th December

7.00pm – midnight

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas…!

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas and join us for an evening of festive hits made famous by the one and only Michael Bublé! Enjoy an indulgent two course spread and live performance from our tribute singer!

£48 per person, includes drink on arrival and a 2-course menu

Salomons’ Jingle Ball

1st, 15th and 16th December

7.00pm – 1.00am

Our spectacular shared party nights will return this Christmas and we invite you to join us! Dress to impress and get ready to celebrate in style. For £56 per person, Salomons’ Jingle Ball includes:

A welcome drink

3-course festive menu

DJ and dancing

Photobooth and casino table

Merry Christmas!

Wednesday 25th October

Thursday 26th October 11.00am

Children: £21.50

Adults: £27.50 – includes complimentary tea and coffee during the activities For more information, please visit our website salomons-estate.com

Celebrate Christmas

Christmas Day Lunch

A delicious festive spread served at the Brasserie, including a glass of complimentary bubbles.

12:00pm & 2.45pm 25th December 2023

£99 per person and £49.50 for children

Christmas Getaway Package

A 2-night stay, commencing on 24th December including breakfast, festive dining and Christmas lunch.

Prices start from £595 with upgrades available

Festive Jazz Night at The Brasserie

Taste our festive 3 course set menu, before enjoying the sounds of timeless hits.

Thursday 14th December 7pm-11pm

£44 per person

(£10 deposit per person required)

Private Celebrations

Whether you’re indulging in The Brasserie or dancing the night away in our beautiful Function Room, our event team promises a tailor made celebration. Bespoke packages available

Christmas Party Nights

Our shared Christmas party nights at One Warwick Park Hotel include festive dining, a Christmas cocktail and a live DJ.

£54 per person

Breakfast with Santa

Join us for a delicious breakfast with Santa Claus at One Warwick Park Hotel.

9:30am – 11:30am on 16th, & 24th December 2023

Tickets £18.50 per adult and £9.25 for children

Bookings can be made via our website onewarwickpark.co.uk

Don’t miss out on Gorringe’s inaugural luxe sale

two and look to the secondhand market to satisfy their passion at a more affordable price.

The business in pre-loved or vintage is booming. The very nature of high-end fashion results in last year’s must-haves being supplanted by this year’s hot item and accordingly a steady supply to after-market sellers.

That’s not to say that it’s all

By Samantha Lansberry

THIS week sees the launch of Gorringe’s inaugural luxe sale. What is luxe? You may well ask. Luxe in essence is ‘Luxury’ so, typically, the products of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès and Chanel. In the main we are talking about designer handbags, luggage and clothing, but in addition other accessories such as sunglasses, pens and watches. These mega brands have evolved into highly-sophisticated marketing machines with a new range of designer goods available every season. Production numbers are carefully rationed to ensure that demand exceeds supply and new versions of old staples aim to keep the buying public coming back for more.

The stylish emporiums of Bond Street and beyond beckon to those fashionistas with a budget to match their desire for the latest and greatest, but many collectors and followers of fashion wait a season or

cheap. The classic Birkin Bag, was introduced in 1984 by French luxury goods maker Hermès. Birkin bags are handmade from leather and are named after the actress and singer Jane Birkin. You cannot walk in off the street

and buy one, but instead have to place an order, typically at a price upwards of £10,000. Their exclusivity leads to strong competition for pre-owned examples, with an auction-price record in the region of $200,000.

The offering at Gorringe’s is somewhat more affordable, albeit

lacking any Birkin bags. We do have handbags by Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Mulberry, Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Radley. Estimates range from £1,500 down to a cheaper-than-the-high-street price of £50.

We have vintage trunks and suitcases made by Louis Vuitton and the less well known but equally exclusive brand Goyard. One, quite possibly unique, piece on offer is a Louis Vuitton folio case, made

7TH OCTOBER 10AM

as a specialist order for a London advertising executive. Accessories include Chanel sunglasses, Versace jewellery and Hermès silk scarves, many in their original boxes. The designer clothing in the sale ranges from a vintage Lanvin dress to classic Barbour jackets produced for The Game Fair.

In all cases, authenticity is guaranteed. We check the provenance of every item to ensure that fakes and forgeries do not slip through.

The sale is viewable online at: gorringes. co.uk so do have a look. You never know, you might just be tempted…

ON CANVAS, 68CM X 116CM, WITH PROVENANCE EST: £10,000-£20,000

‘Pre-loved or vintage is booming. The very nature of high-end fashion results in last year’s must-haves being supplanted by this year’s hot item’

BAGGING IT: Luxury on sale

Motoring News

This week…

James Bond DB5 turns 60 ◆ VW’s new look Tiguan ◆ No more Volvo diesels after 2024 ◆

Aston Martin marks 60 years of iconic ‘James Bond car’

ASTON MARTIN is celebrating 60 years since the debut of the DB5, arguably the most well-known model from the British sports car brand’s history.

Following on from the DB4, Aston Martin revealed its new DB5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1963, boasting a more powerful engine and technical and equipment upgrades over its predecessor.

Synonymous

Of the 1,022 original DB5s produced, there were 887 coupes built, along with 123 convertibles and 12 bespoke coach-built shooting brakes. It was the coupe that became synonymous with the ‘James Bond car’, following its appearance in the 1964 ‘007’ film Goldfinger.

Since then, the iconic DB5, painted in Silver Birch, has starred in eight different James Bond films, including in the latest 2021 box office-hit No Time to Die.

Over the years the DB5 has been a car often used by the rich and famous, with owners including The Beatles’ Sir Paul McCartney and George Harrison, comedian Peter Sellers and fashion designer Ralph Lauren.

In 1964, the DB5 cost £4,248, equivalent to £73,529 in today’s money. However, the DB5’s value far exceeds that, with some examples in the iconic James Bond spec selling for up to £1million.

To mark the 60th anniversary of the DB5, Aston Martin has done a photo shoot with the classic model next to the firm’s latest DB12 sports car.

Volkswagen Tiguan revealed with new look and more technology

YOU might expect a Golf or Polo to be Volkswagen’s best-selling model but since 2017, the firm’s most successful car has been the mid-size Tiguan SUV.

With more than 7.5 million sold since 2007 – and with the current generation being around since 2016 – Volkswagen is now back with a radically different third-generation model.

Volkswagen’s styling is well-known for being quite conservative, but this new Tiguan is quite a radical departure, with few similarities shared between the old and new car. The front end gets a bolder and wider look courtesy of a new radiator section, with the firm putting a special emphasis on aerodynamics. It will also be available with advanced HD Matrix headlights, featuring 19,200 individually controlled LEDs.

Front and rear light bars will be fitted, depending on the version, with the overall design clearly influenced by Volkswagen’s

electric models, in particular the ID.4 SUV. A large rear spoiler also helps to give the Tiguan a sportier look, which can be added further by choosing the R-Line trim level.

The Tiguan’s cockpit also gets a thorough makeover. There’s a large new touchscreen measuring up to 15 inches, running Volkswagen’s latest software that promises significant improvements in usability and connectivity.

All models will also feature a selector that can be used to control the driving modes, as well as ambient lighting settings.

There will be a range of powertrains available on the Tiguan, including petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids. Mild-hybrid technology will also be available for the first time on this SUV.

Orders for the Tiguan are expected to open later in the year, with prices in Germany starting from €36,600 (£31,500).

Speaking about the DB5, Aston Martin’s Executive Chairman, Lawrence Stroll –himself a DB5 owner – said: “The David Brown era gave us so many great Aston Martin sports cars, but none more recognisable, revered, and desired as the DB5, which laid the foundations of our identity as a British luxury brand synonymous with style, performance,

and exclusivity.

“It is only right that, as it turns 60, we take a moment to look back and reflect on this car’s incredible role in our storied 110-year heritage. We’re incredibly proud that the DB lineage continues today with the critically acclaimed DB12, which like those that came before it, is a celebration of all we love about British hand-built sports cars.”

Volvo will produce its last diesel car in early 2024

VOLVO has announced that it will produce its last diesel car at the start of 2024 as it continues to switch its focus to electrified models.

Announced at Climate Week NYC, Volvo is continuing down its rigid electrification path. While diesel models were quietly phased out of its UK range earlier in the year, the firm will now globally stop making models powered by the fuel in early 2024.

Diesel was historically popular in larger Volvo models like the XC90 and XC60, but has faded as more buyers choose plug-in hybrids instead.

Volvo says it’s ‘all-in on electrification’, and by 2030 plans to only sell fully-electric models. A decade later it hopes to be a climate-neutral company.

The Swedish carmaker hit the headlines recently when it confirmed that it would only be selling SUVs in the UK, with its oncepopular estate cars and saloons facing the

axe. Today, you can still get Volvo’s with petrol and plug-in hybrid engines in the case of the XC90, XC60 and XC40, meanwhile electric versions of the XC40 and C40 are offered. Next year will see Volvo introduce two new EVs, the EX30 and flagship EX90. Jim Rowan, chief executive of Volvo Cars, said: “Electric powertrains are our future, and superior to combustion engines: they generate less noise, less vibration, less servicing costs for our customers and zero tailpipe emissions.

“We’re fully focused on creating a broad portfolio of premium, fully electric cars that deliver on everything our customers expect from a Volvo – and are a key part of our response to climate change.”

Volvo becomes one of the first ‘legacy’ carmakers to announce it’s turning its back on the diesel, with other rival premium brands Audi and Mercedes expected to keep producing diesel models for years to come.

Picture: Aston Martin/PA

Picture: Volkswagen/PA

Picture: Volvo/PA

JAMES PEAKE RITA SIMONS STEWART McCHEYNE ABIGAILE GREEN