Times of Tunbridge Wells 18th Jul 2018

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

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Group attack and then a murder investigation

PHOTO: Harry Stewart Dubes

CRIME SCENE Forest Road in Hawkenbury was attended by police

A MAN has died and another remains in hospital after two separate incidents in Tunbridge Wells within 24 hours.

Kent Police launched a murder investigation when a 43-year-old ‘who sustained injuries’ died at an address in Sherwood Road around 10.40am yesterday [Tuesday].

The victim has been named on social media as Gordon Farnes.

A police spokesman said: “A knife has been recovered by officers and a local man [aged 28] has been arrested on suspicion of murder and is currently in police custody.

“It is believed the victim and suspect knew each other.”

In a separate incident, that is understood to not be connected, a man was stabbed following a two-car collision in Hawkenbury.

Police were called to Forest Road at 6.12pm on Monday [July 16] when the victim was reportedly assaulted by several others after the crash, who then left the scene.

The man was taken to hospital where he remains in a ‘serious but stable’ condition.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information is asked to call 01622 604100.

Drain cleaning blitz after flood damage forces shops to close Exclusive by William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk A DRAIN cleaning operation will be carried out in Tunbridge Wells next week after flash floods harmed businesses.

Rain fell so intensely in a half an hour period on Thursday, July 5, that surface water was unable to enter the sewer network fast enough.

This caused sewers, such as those in Nevill Road, to back up and shops to be flooded.

Kent County Council [KCC] is responsible for the operation of drains and was criticised as several drains were found to be clogged with dirt.

The authority has responded and has said work will begin from July 23.

Cllr Mike Whiting, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “The town experienced extreme rainfall and sections of the highway drainage system were overwhelmed.

“I’ve seen the devastation that flooding has caused in Tunbridge Wells and we are determined to do our best to prevent it from reoccurring.”

The streets where drains are set to be cleaned are: Nevill Street, Warwick Park, John Street, Speldhurst Road and Culverden Park Road.

They are routinely cleaned on a six month basis, but County Hall has brought this forward after the flooding. KCC has not stated how long the clean up will take.

Cllr Ronen Basu, of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said: “It’s excellent news that KCC has announced this

drain cleaning blitz. Local businesses and residents should not have to experience the dreadful conditions and uncertainty they faced recently because of blocked drains.”

During the programme, parking restrictions and possibly some out of hours road closures will be needed.

KCC has asked drivers not to ignore these signs as parked vehicles can prevent cleaning from taking place.

To report a blocked drain, call 03000 418181.

KCC is also looking to direct some street water directly to the River Grom beneath The Pantiles rather than the combined sewer. A three week project is to begin in August.

FLOODED: Alex Houlton and Abby Mason at One The Pantiles

For more see Page 4

INSIDE SIGNS OF CONFUSION New road markings cause some bemusement Page 5

EX-MAYORESS DIES

Council Leader David Jukes’ wife passes away Page 5

THE BEST IN SHOW Eridge Horse Trials hailed a huge success Page 4

LIVING IN HOPE

Student hopes crowdfunding will help find cure Page 14

NEWS

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Plan to charge £6 for disposal of some waste

By Duncan Audsley COUNTY HALL leaders are hoping to generate an extra £4million a year by charging residents for disposing of non-household waste at tips.

Under new plans, customers would pay £4 to drop off a standard black sack of soil, rubble or hardcore waste, or £6 per bag or sheet of plasterboard. The proposal is set to go to a public consultation after Kent County Council’s environment committee approved a draft.

Under the scheme the authority stands to bring in £4million, which is £1million more than is currently spent annually processing the waste.

A county council spokesman said: “We believe this option will offer savings, whilst still maintaining this valuable service.”

Capacity The proposal has the potential to impact on all of Kent’s Household Waste Recycling Centres, including the tip in Tunbridge Wells.

The North Farm centre is likely to come under further pressure following the closures of sites in Wadhurst and Forest Row. County Cllr Ian Chittenden, the Liberal Democrat spokesman for Environment and Transport, said: “Under the current system, Kent residents are paying to dispose of other people’s waste, as people in neighbouring counties take advantage of our free service. That isn’t right.”

Mark Hood, of Tonbridge & Malling Green Party, added: “This proposal has some merits but could penalise people undertaking DIY projects and it could also lead to an increase in unsafe and anti-social disposal, including fly-tipping. We would urge KCC to strengthen measures to prevent disposal of commercial waste at tips.”

The county council spokesman said research showed this was unlikely.

The consultation process is set to be carried out for 12 weeks from August with the results to be brought to the council’s Cabinet in early 2019.

This is set to happen barring the unlikely event the Cabinet do not vote to proceed with it in a meeting next month. Residents can make their views known from next month, once consultation goes live.

CONTACTS EDITORIAL DIRECTOR RICHARD MOORE richard@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 779615 DEPUTY EDITOR EILEEN LEAHY eileen@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 576037 CHIEF REPORTER WILLIAM MATA will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk | 01892 240626 DESIGN/PRODUCTION LEE SMITH lsmith8@markerstudy.com SALES ENQUIRIES GHak@onemediauk.co.uk | 01892 779650 FIND US ONLINE facebook.com/timeslocalnews timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk twitter.com/timeslocalnews

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Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Horse trials watched by 4,500 THOUSANDS braved scorching weather to watch one of the South East’s biggest equestrian events, The SsangYong Eridge Horse Trials.

The sixth annual event, which also includes a country market, dog show and falconry displays, attracted an estimated crowd of 4,500 last weekend. Some 420 competitors took part in the dressage, cross country and show jumping events as temperatures topped 25°C at the Eridge Park venue, near Tunbridge Wells.

Tim Nolan, Joint Organiser, said: “It was a fabulous weekend and family event, proving to be a huge success.”

Scott Brickell, who worked on the London 2012 Olympics site, led a team to design the course.

Mr Nolan said: “The team were highly praised for the effort put into softening the ground, all thanks to the unprecedented lack of rain since May.”

UP AND OVER Indy Limpus takes part in The SsangYong Eridge Horse Trials

PHOTO: Julian Portch

4

Shops left counting cost of flash flooding which hit The Pantiles HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO NOW GET INSURANCE?

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BUSINESS owners are counting the cost of devastating flash floods which struck parts of Tunbridge Wells two weeks ago.

Several shops told the Times they are facing bills of more than £15,000 after rain equating to what Southern Water described as ‘three buckets of water per square-metre’ fell in one hour on Thursday [July 5].

Chocolatl and Mink Interiors in The Pantiles are still closed.

Choice Carpets managed to reopen, despite half of all their carpets being destroyed. Tom Woolvett, Manager, said: “This is the third time in four years we have had this level of flooding.

It happened so quickly, so it was hard to react appropriately.

“It was raining for just 15 or 20 minutes, not a particularly long time. The drains then stopped doing what they should have been doing. It was left a river outside the front.

“I was trying to hold the door shut, not really achieving a lot, and then I went to grab the keys to lock it and the water just came flooding in.

The water flooded into the back and everything was under water so it just wiped out the computer and the telephones.

Wednesday July 11 | 2018 “It was pretty devastating.

It shouldn’t be happening. If some drains can’t cope with ND ENGLAATIA vs CRO half an hour of rain then something is not right.”

SIGN OF THE TIMES: Chocolatl in The Pantiles Tunbridge Wells Interiors, at One The Pantiles, closed for one week but has now reopened.

Owner Abby Mason said: “We had 40 to 50 sample books destroyed. It cost us a lot financially and we were closed for a whole week.

“We cannot be insured because it is a frequently flooded area, the insurance is either too high or the insurance isn’t available.

“A girl who was working here didn’t dare go out and was really frightened, because the water was streaming so rapidly.”

Additional reporting by Jac Lewis and Tom Cann.

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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Destroyed The impact of deep water was shown in a video from Grub & Liquor pub on Nevill Street, where a lorry is seen driving along Frant Road, causing a wave.

The clip has been seen more than 600,000 times on the Times Facebook page.

Framptons and Imperial Pharmacy on The Pantiles were both forced to close for short periods, while Brittens Music on Grove Hill Road and Collared pet shop on The Pantiles remained open but were impacted by high waters.

INSIDE

Hospitals battle to balance the books in bid for a £12m bonus

EXTRA POWERS?

New pilot rate scheme to be trialled in county Page 10

By Duncan Audsley THE hard pressed NHS Trust which manages Tunbridge Wells Hospital is in line for a £12million bonus if it can bring its finances out of the red.

Data released recently shows that Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust [MTW] recorded an in-year deficit of £10.9million at the end of the last 12 month financial period. This was despite the fact that the Trust’s management was expecting to see a £6.7million surplus.

Bonus Balancing the books represents another challenge for managers of the hospital in Pembury, which was most recently rated as ‘requires improvement,’ by the Care and Quality Commission.

MTW, which also manages Maidstone Hospital, has confirmed no staff cuts or reduction in patient treatment will happen as a result of the deficit.

The figures were released by the NHS shortly after the Government announced a funding boost of £20.5billion a year for the health service.

Miles Scott, Chief Executive of MTW, took over the post in January and said a plan is in place to balance the books.

But getting the trust in good financial shape this year is key, with a £12million bonus from the NHS at stake.

Continued on Page 2

GEORGE COHEN MBE Tunbridge Wells’ most famous footballer Page 3

DEEP END: Frant Road was one of several areas flooded in Tunbridge Wells on Thursday [July 5]. A video showing a lorry driving through deep water was watched more than 440,000 times on the Times of Tunbridge Wells Facebook page. Watch the video at theknow.guide

Flash floods cause more grief to stricken businesses in town

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk BUSINESSES sustained thousands of pounds worth of damage last week as Tunbridge Wells drainage again failed to cope with a downpour.

Rain equating to three buckets of water per square-metre fell in one hour on Thursday afternoon [July 5] causing businesses in the southern end of town to temporarily close.

The Pantiles and Mount Pleasant were flooded for the second time in 12 months, to the anger of business owners who had been told by Southern Water that last year’s bad weather was a ‘once in 50 year event’.

Clive Everton, Manager of Choice Carpets in Nevill Street, said: “This is the

fourth time we have flooded in four years, but this time we have to replace more than ever.”

Louise Clark, Managing Director of One Warwick Park Hotel, said: “Despite our

‘The flash flood was a bitter blow… The street turned into a river’ Greg Clark MP precautions, the flood caused major damage at one of the busiest times of year.

“This area has been flooded since the turn of the century and it’s time for a council to take responsibility.”

And after two previous floods had cost his business in the region of £30,000, John Hoare of Cassidy’s Sports Bar in

Castle Street said £5,000 worth of stock had been lost.

Flooding in The Pantiles area has been long associated with The Pantiles area, with seven incidents having been recorded in county council logs since 2000. Incidents in 2015 and again in 2017 prompted Kent County Council to produce two reports to investigate.

The latter states: “Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has a general responsibility to oversee all matters relating to drainage within the district.

“Southern Water are responsible for the maintenance of foul and surface water public sewers.

“Kent County Council is the lead local flood authority and has a duty to: Under-

COOKING UP A FEAST Local chefs toast festival’s huge success Pages 4-5

IN THE NEWS WHAT A NOVEL IDEA How the Times reported the flooding last week

Continued on Page 2

Writer’s book reveals her passion for perfume Page 52

AFTER some shops were flooded for the third time in three years; we asked AXA Insurance if retailers might struggle to find cover. Here is what they had to say: Despite the current heatwave, the risk of flooding is sadly, never far away. Considering the pressures that High Street retailers are under, a flood with the long recovery process is the last thing they need.

Tunbridge Wells can be vulnerable to both river and flash flooding which can give little notice of flooding. Check entry points to your premises where water can come in and consider expert advice from flood risk assessors. Options to protect include: Repoint any brickwork and apply waterproof sealant systems.

Fit one way valves to stop water coming in via pipes and sanitary ware (blow up toilet bungs can help if fitted in time).

Defence systems can be deployed across doors and low level windows. Check products are PAS1188 approved and fitted by competent people. Flood resistant doors are now available that instantly protect once they are locked.

Raise electrical sockets and consider buying a flood pump to remove water quickly.

Finally, keep your insurance company contact details handy should you need to make a claim.

BLOCKED UP There is no getting through in some Tunbridge Wells drains

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Green Flags awarded to a record six parks A SIXTH Green Flag has been awarded in Tunbridge Wells with St John’s Park being presented with the environmental accolade.

It joins Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Calverley Grounds, Woodbury Park Cemetery, Dunorlan Park and The Grove in being named among the UK’s 1,883 recipients for the coming year.

The Green Flag scheme means that the venues are good quality parks and green spaces that are managed in an environmentally sensitive and sustainable way.

They are welcoming places that are healthy, safe and secure for all members of the community to use.

£20k to demolish toilet GETTING rid of the only public toilets in Southborough cost £20,000, figures released by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council have shown.

The amenity in London Road was knocked down last year, as was the nearby Royal Victoria Hall theatre, as part of the project to build the replacement Southborough Hub. The borough council was unable to say if this was a ‘typical amount’.

A spokesman said: “In January 2017, the Cabinet agreed to demolish the toilet block and contribute £20,000 from the Strategic Reserve Fund which is refundable as part of the development costs.

“Kent County Council is delivering the project and made a request to draw down all of the £20k towards the demolition costs that were being incurred.”

Multi-agency operation YOUNG people were interviewed by 46 representatives from a range of organisations in a Tunbridge Wells Borough Council initiative.

The Town Hall said the aim was to identify where help might be needed and point the young people in the direction of organisations, services and activities that provide support and information.

At the end of the operation 160 young people had been spoken to and a number of referrals to specialist agencies were made.

Among those to be helped was a homeless 19-year-old. Parents of a young teenage girl were contacted because of concerns for her welfare.

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Slow down, or speed up into village?

SPELDHURST motorists weren’t sure whether to speed up or slow down when a new 20mph road marking was painted next to a sign that said 30mph.

Kent County Council were told the ‘make their minds up’ by commenters on social media after the lines were painted at all entrances to the village.

Disruption Another said ‘does this mean the speed limit is 25mph?’

It turns out it does not. The passage is now subject to a 20mph limit, in line with other Kent villages and road signs have since been installed around Speldhurst.

The County Hall explained that one team undertook the line marking and another completed the signage a few days apart to reduce disruption.

MARKING MAD Motorists only needed to drive at 20mph for a few centimetres

Town escapes a hosepipe ban Council Leader’s but don’t fill the paddling pool wife ‘Wendy’ passes away

By Jonathan Banks

HOUSEHOLDS in Tunbridge Wells are being urged to use water ‘sparingly’ in the hot weather and ‘refrain from washing cars or filling paddling pools’.

The plea comes from Southern Water, which covers Kent and East Sussex.

However, the company has stopped short of introducing hosepipe bans similar to those being imposed in other parts of the country.

In the North West of England thousands of families are facing hosepipe bans as forecasters predict hot, dry weather for the rest of July.

A Southern Water spokesperson said yesterday [Tuesday]: “We have no plans to introduce similar measures as we have good stocks of water resources in our reservoirs and more importantly in the deep underground natural stores of water called aquifers.

“But when warm weather hits, demand for water soars by as much as 70 per cent compared to cooler times and as the heat wave continues it is placing a high demand on water supplies.”

The company is currently supplying 100 million more litres of water a day across the region compared with an average day in 2017 that’s nearly eleven million watering cans full.

The spokesman added: “We are calling on customers to use water sparingly in the garden, refrain from washing cars or filling paddling pools to ensure we have sufficient supplies in our network.”

One of the biggest sources of supply in the region is Bewl Water where levels currently stand at 96 per cent capacity. In order for a drought to be called that figure would have to drop to 26 per cent.

If that happened Southern Water would talk to the Environment Agency about putting a temporary hosepipe ban in place in particular regions. However, the company has said it is ‘no where near that yet.’

WATER AGENCY RESPONDS: Ben Earl, water efficiency manager at Southern Water, said: “Water is a precious resource and it’s important that we all do what we can to reduce wastage, come rain or shine.

“Our customers are already among the most water efficient in the country but there are simple things you can do to reduce waste - and cut your water bill.

“In the heat wave, people should be neighbourly - preserve supplies by using water butts to water plants - brown lawns recover quickly.

“Other tips include simple measures such as turning off taps when you’re brushing your teeth, swapping a bath for a four-minute shower and watering your garden with harvested rain can make a huge difference to water supply levels across the region.’

THE former Tunbridge Wells Mayoress Avice ‘Wendy’ Jukes has died, aged 75.

She was being treated for renal failure and had been ill for some time.

Mrs Jukes passed away earlier this week at Heatherview Nursing Home in Crowborough.

Mrs Jukes was the wife of the current Leader of the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council David Jukes and served as Mayoress between 2010 and 2011 when he held the post of Mayor.

She was a popular figure in Tunbridge Wells and was extremely well liked, particularly by the wives of other council members.

Born in Tooting she was a trained chef and was married to Cllr Jukes for 55 years. She was the mother of two grown-up children, Nigel and Kate and grandmother to four boys.

No details of funeral arrangements have yet been announced.

AVICE JUKES The former Mayoress, known as Wendy, at the 2010 Christmas Toy Appeal

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Centenary of Air Force marked by service in Cemetery Chapel AROUND 80 people celebrated the formation of the Royal Air Force [RAF] on its 100th birthday in a ‘glorious’ event at Tunbridge Wells Cemetery Chapel.

Speeches and wreath laying ceremonies were completed at the Hawkenbury venue on Saturday [July 14], a few days after the royal flypast in London.

Deputy Mayor, Cllr James Scholes and Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Peter Blackwell both attended the ceremony, as did The Skinners’ School Air Training Corps and 129 Tunbridge Wells Air Cadets.

Event organiser Maurice Verrall,

President of the local branch of charity Royal Air Forces Association [RAFA], said: “It was a glorious day.

“It is something that is unique and not many towns in the country were doing it. It was a good atmosphere and a great turnout.”

Veterans from the RAF also attended the ceremony at the Chapel. The RAF was founded in April 1918 as an amalgamation of the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service.

The Tunbridge Wells RAFA was formed in 1946 and needs new members. To find out more, visit visit www.tunbridgewellsrafa.org.uk

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

CEREMONY The 100th anniversary of the RAF was celebrated

By William Mata AN extra 49 homes could be built at Knights Wood estate at North Farm, if plans are approved by councillors.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s planning committee has the option to grant permission for ‘phase four’ of the development.

Knights Wood is next to the Knights Park cinema estate and close to High Brooms railway station. If councillors give the go-ahead it would see the site grow to contain 598 homes.

Top gardens under inspection as judging starts Together in Bloom murals in the town and Dunorlan Park and ‘Bumble the Bee’ who resides in the Library’s flower bed.”

The regional award results will be announced on September 14, in which Tunbridge Wells has been nominated for the Large Town category, a competition which was won last year by the town.

By Duncan Audsley JUDGING is underway across Tunbridge Wells for the In Bloom competitions.

There are three tiers of contest this year, with the town up for the Royal Horticultural Society’s regional South and South East In Bloom and national Britain In Bloom prizes.

There is also an independent Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom competition, where business, allotment and garden owners have entered a range of categories.

On Friday [July 13] judges gathered at Dunorlan Park to inspect entries for the South and South East in Bloom competition.

The joint effort is being co-led by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Royal Tunbridge Wells Together.

Helen Timms, the borough council’s Parks and Sports Team Administrator, said: “The judging

Achievement FLOWER POWER Mayor Len Horwood and local dignitaries day went smoothly and the judges were very impressed with the efforts made by the Tunbridge Wells in Bloom committee and all the volunteers.

“The judges were especially taken with the

Knights Wood considered for more housing

This achievement has led to Tunbridge Wells also being named a Britain in Bloom UK Finalist, representing the South and South East region.

There are eight other large towns competing.

Judging for the national contest will be completed on July 30 with winners to be announced on October 19.

And the search to find the best the town has to offer has also started this week with Tunbridge Wells in Bloom judging now underway.

Landscape Developer Dandara has stated there would by 17 affordable homes out of the 49.

Their statement in favour said: “The proposal will both continue the success of Knights Wood as a new community and optimise delivery of much needed high quality new homes within an attractive landscape setting.”

The committee will decide tonight [Wednesday, July 18] on whether to go ahead, with the planning inspector having recommended permission is granted.

As part of the Section 106 agreement whereby developers ‘donate’ money to the community, contributions would need to be paid to local projects, including the Tunbridge Wells Cultural Hub and Hawkenbury Recreation Ground.

Cllr Bob Backhouse, who represents the relevant Sherwood ward, said: “I have engaged with Tunbridge Wells residents and there is a need for more homes. But Dandara has to make the provision for extra funding for school places.”

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LINE-UP Some of the bikes on offer to riders

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Explore the countryside by bike with turn-up-and-go hire scheme

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk A CYCLE hire scheme has had a ‘phenomenal response’ since launching in villages around Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, its Co-Founder has said.

Fordcombe couple Tim and Suzy Seddon, both 44, established Countrybike in April, which allows riders to hire bikes at nine rural locations in a similar style to the Santander Cycles in London.

Penshurst Place, The Spa Valley Railway station in Groombridge and The Plough pub near Leigh are just three points where customers can collect a bike in West Kent and East Sussex.

It is all accessible through smartphone app LINKA Go. Once users have submitted card details to the app, they can receive a QR code, which can be scanned to unlock a bike to use.

Mr Seddon said despite the project having only been live for a few months, it has already proved a success with around half of the fleet

DREAM IN TANDEM Tim and Suzy Seddon have launched Countrybike of bikes [around 50 in total] being hired at busy weekend times.

“People found they wanted to cycle but did not have the means to transport bikes and that bike

Health groups celebrate as the number of smokers falls again

By William Mata, Tom Cann and Jac Lewis will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk SMOKING is on the decline in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, according to latest figures.

Office for National Statistics [ONS] data shows that there are around 3,000 fewer people lighting up in both towns than in 2011 – a fall of around 4 per cent.

Charity Action on Smoking and Health [ASH] publicised the data last week which found overall smoking rates in 2017 were at a record low percentage of 14.9 per cent.

This is down from 19.3 per cent in 2013 but Debroah Arnott, Chief Executive of ASH, said there was ‘no room for complacency’ in their efforts.

“Smoking must become history for all of society not just for the wealthy,” she said.

“Cuts in public health funding and lack of treatment for smoking on the NHS mean poorer more heavily addicted smokers, including those who

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

are pregnant, are not getting the help they need to quit.”

For 2017 there was a higher number of people smoking in Tunbridge Wells borough [13,591] than in Tonbridge & Malling [11,353].

But these figures are comfortably lower than they were in 2011, when the ONS found there were 17,214 smokers in Tunbridge Wells borough and 13,290 in Tonbridge & Malling.

LIGHT WORK The number of Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge smokers has fallen

Packaging Kent County Council’s Director of Health Andrew Scott-Clark welcomed the news.

He told the Times: “We are pleased that the number of people smoking is reducing in parts of Kent.

“A number of strategies have contributed to this, including the introduction of plain packaging, de-normalisation of smoking, smokefree areas, the increased use of e-cigarettes and support services to help people quit.

“However, smoking remains one of the major causes of preventable death so quitting really is

the best thing a smoker can do for their health and for the health of their families too.

“There is also evidence showing that changing from cigarettes and tobacco to vaping e-cigarettes poses only a small fraction of the risks of smoking and people need to realise that switching completely from smoking to vaping conveys substantial health benefits.”

hire was not available,” he told the Times.

“It is about encouraging kids to not be on their screens, but to get out there at the weekend. It has been a phenomenal response and we have had really positive feedback.”

It costs £8 for the first hour and then £2 for every half hour after that to hire the bikes, which are built for off-road riding and have 21 gears. All of the bikes have GPS tracking to prevent theft.

Bikes must be returned to the point where they were borrowed from.

Some of the bike collection points are on established routes like The Tudor Trail, The Forest Way and The Pilgrims Way. But, unlike the urban Santander Cycles, residents are unlikely to see the bikes for hire in town centres any time soon.

Mr Seddon added: “Penshurst Place has been a fantastic spot for us with great footfall.

“We have seen families with children as young as eight taking bikes out. We are seeing great utilisation at the weekend, although it depends on the weather!”

To find out more visit: www.countrybike.co.uk

RISE IN NUMBER OF PEOPLE VAPING VAPING, the smoking of electronic cigarettes, is becoming more popular according to latest statistics.

Figures published by charity Action on Smoking and Health [ASH] shows the number of people vaping has risen 314 per cent since 2012, going from 700,000 to 2.9million in 2017.

The NHS also used those stats to showcase that of the 2.9 million, 1.5 million do not smoke regular tobacco cigarettes. But while 4 per cent of adults are now using e-cigarettes, 17.2 per cent of adults smoke tobacco.

The growing popularity is shown on high streets of Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge, where a number of vape shops have opened.

Mike Cameron, Owner of SMOKO on Camden Road, recently told the Times: “I now see a lot of people walking around Tunbridge Wells using e-cigarettes.

“The number of people vaping has risen since the price of a cigarette pack recently went up to £10.”

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Plan for 28 homes in village sent to council AN extra 28 homes could be built in Hawkhurst if an application is accepted.

Developer Millwood Designer Homes has submitted documents to Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, which contain proposals to build on Heartenoak Road.

A statement in support read: “The impact would be minimal whilst still providing a significant local benefit through the provision of some affordable housing.”

The borough council will process the application over the coming months.

Escaping from London TUNBRIDGE WELLS is the second most attractive option for people to live and commute to London, according to a report.

The journey time to the capital by train, low crime rate and local wildlife all contributed to the town’s entry on the Escaping London list, published by an estate agent this week.

Only Walton-upon-Thames in Surrey featured higher than Tunbridge Wells.

Codebar event at Yoyo INCLUSIVE technology workshop Codebar will be held for the fifth time in Yoyo Design’s Tunbridge Wells office this month.

The volunteer-led programme aims to diversify the tech industry by teaching skills to women and the LGBT community, who are both underrepresented.

Attendees can learn code and about technology careers at the Calverley Road-based company from 6.30pm on July 24. To find out more, visit www.codebar.io/ workshops/839

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Nearly £2m claimed by councillors after 15 per cent rise in allowance

By William Mata and Matthew Nolan COUNTY councillors claimed nearly £2million in combined expenses and allowances last year [2017-18].

Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge representatives at County Hall played their part, as some of the authority’s 81 members claimed entitlements of up to £64,000.

Their collective claim of £1.94million was the highest ever and comes a year after they voted to raise their basic allowance by 15 per cent.

Fares All councillors claimed a basic allowance of £13,000 to perform duties, which include preparing for and attending meetings as well as dealing with enquiries.

For 2018-19 this basic allowance will rise to £14,725. Councillors are also allowed to claim for some car miles and taxi fares.

Cabinet members, and some councillors with responsibility, are entitled to an additional sum – which for 2017-18 was at least £30,792.

As Council Leader, Cllr Paul Carter received a special responsibility allowance of £47,831. When this is added to what he claimed back, the Conservative saw a combined payment of £64,018.

He said: “We did agree to an increase last year and the figures reflect that. From now, our allowances will go up as staff pay and that is sensible.”

Cllr Peter Oakford, who represents Tunbridge Wells North, and Richard Long, Tonbridge, had the highest claims locally [see panel].

Kent County Council is dominated by the Conservative Party, who have 67 out of 81 seats.

MONEY TALKS County Hall in Maidstone

JOB DESCRIPTION: How councillors earn their allowance All councillors receive a basic allowance (£14,725.25 for 2017/18) to perform their duties.

These include: n Preparing for and attending all formal and informal meetings that they are invited to n Meetings with constituents n Dealing with enquiries from their constituents.

The basic allowance also covers the use of an elected member’s home for conducting Kent County

Council business, particularly in their division, the costs of phone calls and general stationery.

Some elected members receive an additional allowance for any special responsibility that they might have as a member of the council, such as being a Cabinet member or a committee chairman.

Elected members are allowed to claim travelling expenses for their official duties at the rates set

by Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for business travel. Currently these rates are 45p for the first 10,000miles and 25p per mile thereafter.

Taxi fares are only reimbursed on production of a receipt if it is not practical to use public transport or their own car.

Elected members are also allowed to claim expenses for caring responsibilities, either for a child under 16 or a dependent adult.

Expenses for lunch, stationery, phone calls and other routine subsistence expenses are not normally reimbursed because this is covered by the basic allowance.

Just like any other salary all allowances are subject to tax and national insurance and elected members have no other provision to claim from the council, other than mileage.

No other allowances or expenses are payable.

HOW MUCH DID YOUR COUNCILLOR CLAIM? NAME

POLITICAL PARTY

DIVISION

TOTAL CLAIMED

Michael Payne Richard Long Peter Oakford Paul Barrington-King Catherine Rankin James McInroy Sarah Hamilton

Conservative Party Conservative Party Conservative Party Conservative Party Conservative Party Conservative Party Conservative Party

Tonbridge Tonbridge Tunbridge Wells North Tunbridge Wells East Tunbridge Wells South Tunbridge Wells West Tunbridge Wells Rural

£29,575 £44,812 £49,084 £14,035 £27,071 £14,429 £13,874

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BUSINESS

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New Calverley Square can revive town’s high streets

want to see evidence that the public sector has confidence in its own area.

“It is sort of forward funding. We have to deliver loads of houses, but clearly we don’t want Tunbridge Wells just to become a dormitory town, a place where people just live and move on.

“Tunbridge Wells was founded on its culture and leisure. So this council has made the decision to invest further in that cultural offering so that when we try to encourage private investment into the town, as with the shopping centre, they are comforted that we have confidence in our area, that the council is willing to put its own money into it in order to improve the culture and leisure offer, which obviously then complements their retail, food and beverage businesses.”

ALL MAPPED OUT The Civic Complex and theatre will form the new Calverley Square

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

click and collect, Mr Colyer explained.

The actual stock ordered online is often held in store, so the retailers actually still need a physical shop. But they are only prepared to hold them in key towns, and the towns they have chosen they are prepared to invest in heavily, he added.

This is why British Land’s investment is such a boon for Tunbridge Wells, as their business model centres on long-term investment into their real estate portfolio, unlike Hermes, which is effectively a fund manager seeking quicker returns.

Mr Colyer concluded: “British Land are much better placed to attract the likes of Zara and those other brands that people would desperately like to have in Tunbridge Wells but are not here.

“On the other hand, fund managers have a hard time convincing those companies who can pick and choose where to put their stores. So the future looks pretty good for Tunbridge Wells.”

Matthew Reed, Head of Retail Asset Management at British Land, said: “Royal Victoria Place is a fantastic retail destination, with a great mix of retailers.

“We’re delighted to be investing in Tunbridge Wells, and look forward to working closely with the council.”

Flagship

By Adam Hignett newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE retail bloodbath that is afflicting many of Britain’s high streets can be avoided in Tunbridge Wells if the council is able to continue investing in the town, an official has claimed.

Projects such as the Calverley Square development, which will see a new theatre and council offices built at the main entrance to Calverley Grounds, convince major business the local

authority has ‘confidence’, he said.

Lee Colyer, the Director of Finance at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, made the remarks in an upbeat conversation on the future of the town’s high streets.

It came after British Land confirmed it had completed the purchase of Royal Victoria Place shopping centre from the Australian firm Hermes.

Explaining why the Calverley Square project is good for the town, Mr Colyer said: “What we have noticed is getting private sector investment can be very challenging in this current climate. They

The investment by British Land is ‘probably the best news for Tunbridge Wells since the shopping centre was built’, Mr Colyer said, as he believes it will help the town remain a key site for retailers to base their flagship shops as they prepare to scale down elsewhere.

Mr Colyer added: “If you look what is happening in retail, you will see what is called a ‘flight to prominence’, where not all high streets are going to survive and not all major retailers are going to want to be on every high street.

“What they won’t do is close branches around 50 key towns across the country. They are the ones they want to invest in heavily.”

This is because – despite the rise of online transactions – a large percentage of goods ordered online still interact with the physical store, especially with the growing popularity of

COMPULSORY PURCHASE ORDER PLAN Councillors are set to vote again on whether to pursue a Compulsory Purchase Order [CPO] to secure land for the £90million Calverley Square Civic Complex.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s Cabinet Advisory Board for Finance & Governance approved a recommendation to seek one CPO in a meeting last week.

Their decision has forwarded the proposal to the authority’s Cabinet, who are set to meet tomorrow [Thursday, July 19].

The details of the CPO will soon be made available.

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Rumours surrounding sale of golf land denied PROPERTY investment firm Targetfollow has quashed a suggestion they have exercised an option to buy Tunbridge Wells Golf Club.

Targetfollow already own Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons, and the business has the option to add the golf club land to their growing portfolio.

In March they extended their opportunity to buy the golf club, but the club’s management told the Times this week that a sale had not been confirmed.

This came amid growing speculation within the town that a deal was close.

Gatwick reports record traffic in busy summer A RECORD 4.5 million people passed through Gatwick Airport in June, marking a 2.2 per cent rise from 2017.

Despite the heatwave in the UK, even more passengers are set to travel abroad through the summer holidays, with an estimated 8.8 million expected to use the airport.

The facility has been a bone of contention for residents of Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding towns villages due to noisy flight paths over homes.

Vineyard’s award win FAMILY-RUN Biddenden Vineyard is celebrating an award triumph on the eve of its 50th anniversary.

Julian, Sally, Tom, Sam and Will Barnes were excited to win Family Business of the Year at the Kent Excellence in Business Awards. Biddenden, said to be Kent’s first commercial vineyard, will turn 50 next year.

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Times award winners continue their success with sustainability accolade

By Duncan Audsley TONBRIDGE firm Newton Waterproofing Systems has been rewarded for its pioneering approach to the environment.

The business, which is based in Sovereign Way, was presented with the Sustainability & Environmental Award in the Property Care Association Best Practice Awards at a gala event held at the University of Warwick.

Newton Managing Director Warren Muschialli said: “The award recognised the work of the company in recycling used waterproofing membrane into plastic chips for use in other products, such as pipes.

“It is part of our overall approach to tackle waste, which includes reducing

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our product plastic packaging by over 50 per cent over the next three years.”

It was a second recent success for Newton, who picked up Family Business of the Year at our own Times Business Awards, held at Salomons Estate.

The company provides complete structural waterproofing and damp-proofing systems, and has been a family-run business since 1848.

Judges

PRAISED FOR CLEVER USE OF WASTE: Newton Waterproofing Systems take the Sustainability & Environmental Award

New manager for historic hotel after a year of mixed fortunes…

THE long-standing Royal Wells Hotel in Tunbridge Wells has appointed a new General Manager – Steve Collins.

Shepherd Neame, the Faversham brewery behind the hotel on Mount Ephraim, has confirmed he will front their 30-strong team.

The hotel is well known for being a favourite of Queen Victoria, who visited in the 19th Century when she was still a young princess.

But the Royal Wells made

BUSINESS

headlines for the wrong reasons last year as it was ordered to pay almost £170,000 in fines and court fees after a negative food hygiene inspection.

Challenge

TAKING CHARGE: The hotel’s new General Manager, Steve Collins

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council took action in July 2017 in what was then thought to be the highest fine awarded for this type of offence.

Newton managed to come out on top in their category ahead of a record number of entries.

These were vetted by three judges, Dr Hector Altamirano, Research Associate at the UCL Energy Institute, Paul Cribbens, Standards Manager at NHBC, and Ray Ferris, Head of Compliance and Standards for the Government-endorsed scheme for trades in and around the home, TrustMark.

Stephen Hodgson, Chief Executive of the Property Care Association, said: “The judges felt that the clever use of waste to make new products was an excellent strategy.

“It is a great way forward for the company.”

But in an inspection in November , Royal Wells improved its score to four stars out of five.

Father-of-one Mr Collins, 44, has joined from the New Flying Horse in Wye, where he was at the helm for five years.

He said: “I really enjoyed my time at the New Flying Horse, but I was ready for a new challenge, so when Shepherd Neame offered me the opportunity to take on the Royal Wells, I was thrilled.

“It is a beautiful, unique venue in a great location, and my aim is to continue to raise its profile and ensure that people know just how much we have to offer here.”

The Royal Wells has been refurbished over recent years and has 27 bedrooms. It can also be used as a wedding venue.

Shepherd Neame operates 324 pubs, bars and hotels across the South East.

To find our more, visit: www.royalwells.co.uk

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Salvation Army crew take to the high seas to help fight trafficking

By Andy Tong A CREW from Tunbridge Wells took on a gruelling Round the Island Race at the Isle of Wight in their bid to raise funds for The Salvation Army.

The proceeds of their sponsorship will go towards the charity’s work in tackling modern slavery both in the UK and Poland.

Robert Banks, Hamish McKeown, Christopher Hunt and church leader Captain Graeme Smith joined more than 1,200 other boats on July 7.

Sadly, they were unable to finish the race, which is 50 nautical miles in length, due to the weather conditions.

Extreme heat and no wind meant the tide got the better of their craft and they had to retire. Only 656 of the 1,204 entrants completed the course.

The 87th edition of the race was described by the Island Sailing Club as ‘one of the most challenging on record’.

The four friends, aged 40 to 50, decided to undertake the challenge less than a year ago, despite only one of them having any previous sailing experience.

Robert owns the five-berth yacht Matuta and has been sailing for about 15 years. He is the skipper of Team Matuta, and said: “The Round the Island Race is a challenge I have always wanted to take on.

He added: “My brother and sister– in-law are church leaders for The Salvation Army in Poland, which is known as Armia Zbawienia in Polish,

and they have told me about the work they are involved in supporting antihuman trafficking there, and I know about similar work by our organisation in the UK. “The decision to form a team with Graeme, Hamish and Chris was easy, really, as everyone was eager to take on the race. We all knew this was the cause we wanted to raise money for.

Robert compared the invigorating task in stunning surroundings to the plight of those who they are looking to support.

‘People trafficked across the oceans of the world often end up in modern slavery’ “This is in sharp contrast to the people we are trying to help who often cannot see the end of the difficult situations they find themselves in.

“People trafficked across the oceans of the world often end up in modern slavery and forced into another form of exploitation, such as servitude or compulsory labour.

“All the money we raise through this race will enable The Salvation Army to carry on its excellent work raising awareness and supporting those who find themselves victims of modern slavery.”

During their training programme, the team had to battle extreme weather

conditions, including three inches of snow and ice, scorching sunshine and gale force seven winds.

Church leader Graeme said: “I first went out on the yacht in May, although Rob has been training us on land for some time now.

“I can’t swim so there’s been a lot to learn to ensure we were all safe at sea as well as getting to grips with all the important nautical terms and how to control the yacht.

“It’s physically hard work and I have definitely got fitter through the training – I took up running earlier this year which has helped my overall fitness.”

He added: “Sailing is something I have always wanted to do but never have had the opportunity.

“I’ve recently discovered that two of my distant relatives were admirals in the Royal Navy, so you could say sailing is in my blood. Some have even joked that we could form The Salvation Navy!”

The Salvation Army provides specialist support for potential adult victims of modern slavery and human trafficking via a UK government contract.

A 24-hour Victim Referral Helpline is available seven days a week on 0300 303 8151.

It offers immediate access to specialised support, such as counselling, interpretation services, legal and immigration advice, medical and financial assistance and safe house accommodation if needed. www.salvationarmy.org.uk

ROPED IN (L-R) Captain Graeme Smith, Hamish McKeown, Christopher Hunt and Matuta’s skipper, Robert Banks, in dock at Southampton

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

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Community News

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Adventurers rally round for Pickering on road to Siberia

By Andy Tong

TOP DRAWER: Tonbridge primary school pupils sketch Dennis with illustrator Mike Spoor

Young readers are ready to make mischief with Dennis the Menace TONBRIDGE LIBRARY has launched the Summer Reading Challenge for children aged four to 11.

The countywide project calls upon young readers to borrow any six library books over the school holidays.

The theme is Mischief Makers, inspired by the much-loved children’s title Beano, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary.

Fifty children from Sussex Road, Royal Rise, Woodlands and Long Mead primary schools came to Tonbridge Library to take part in a comic character drawing workshop led by Kent illustrator Mike Spoor, drawing the comic’s most famous character, Dennis.

To take part in the challenge, children will explore a map of Beanotown to find a hidden treasure chest full of pranks. As they read the

library books they will receive special stickers, some of which have mysterious smells.

By adding these stickers to their map, young readers will help Dennis, his dog Gnasher and friends solve clues and discover the treasure.

Children can simply sign up to take part at their nearest library. Mischief Makers launched across Kent on Saturday and runs until September 15.

One parent said of last year’s event: “This was great for both my daughters.

“My eight year old discovered new authors as a result, and my five year old has moved up two reading levels due to her summer reading.”

A series of activities forms part of the challenge, which is set up by The Reading Agency.

For more information, contact your local library or go to www.kent.gov.uk/libs

TWO young men are taking on the rigours of the Mongol Rally to raise money for the Pickering Cancer Drop-in Centre.

Team Pandamonium consists of Harry Birch, 25, a mechanic from Southborough, and Aaron Simpson, a 24-year-old builder from Crowborough.

Their gruelling, travel adventure started near Prague in the Czech Republic on Monday and they are aiming to cross the finish line 10,000 miles away at Ulan Ude in Siberia, Russia.

The pair will drive through more than 20 countries, traversing mountains, desert and steppe – and the infamous 5km-long ‘Tunnel of Death’ in Tajikistan. The voyage is estimated to take around six weeks.

The cars have an engine capacity limit of 1200cc – the organisers specify they should be ‘relatively clapped out’ – and teams are not allowed back-up.

Team Pandamonium are driving a VW Polo which is more than 20 years old, emblazoned with decals donated by local printers Signal.

Daunting It will be a daunting experience for Aaron, who admitted: “I’ve never done anything like this before, maybe camping for two days. I’m looking forward to the World War II side of things, Auschwitz, Berlin, it would be good to see them.”

He is also excited about travelling along Pamir Highway, which winds through Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan: “It’s scary, high altitude, very little road surface whatsoever.”

Harry is more used to ‘roughing it’, and said: “I went backpacking about two years ago so I’ve got some experience of being away from home for a long time.”

DRIVING FORCE: Aaron Simpson (left) and Harry Birch cross Europe: ‘Germany and Poland are massive!’ And they’ve broken down already…

He wants to visit Turkmenistan’s Darvaza crater, nicknamed ‘Door to Hell’, a vast hole full of burning methane that opened up around 40 years ago.

They will donate 70 per cent of the money they raise to Pickering. The charity’s co-founder, Polly Taylor, said: “We are so touched that they have chosen our charity as the main one. The more we find out about this journey, the more inspirational we feel these youngsters are. Good luck team!

“We’re sure it will be the adventure of a lifetime.

I’d have loved to have done it when I was their age. Just think of the memory book they will have.

“They’re lovely boys through and through. The challenge was massive financially. As well as raising money for this horrendous journey – they needed £1,500 just for fuel – they also have to raise £2,000 for charity. So they were organising pub quizzes, tombolas, raffles – it’s amazing.”

Follow the boys at: blogging.theadventurists. com/tracking/team/team-pandamonium To donate, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search for Team Pandamonium

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Oriana, 19, crowdfunds for spine operation not available on NHS

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

Matures For the past eight years she has been wearing a back brace. But this has only ever been a short term solution.

Oriana said she needs Anterior Scoliosis Correction [ASC], an advanced surgery that she will need to travel to Germany for because it is not available on the NHS. And this September she will travel there for the treatment in a last-ditch attempt to heal her spine before her back matures and becomes too inflexible to treat.

But at £47,000, the surgery does not come cheap. Her parents Jonathan and Mila have made financial sacrifices to put £17,000 towards it.

Now she is asking for your help in a Crowdfunding campaign, to raise the remaining £30,000.

Oriana told the Times: “The pain is always

PHOTO: Craig Matthews

A TEENAGER with a life-limiting spine condition has said time is running out for her to be effectively treated.

Oriana Situ-Chivers, who lives in Paddock Wood, has a severe form of scoliosis which has left her backbone in an ‘S’ shape with two 60°C curves.

The 19-year-old has dropped out of university and had to stop driving, taking part in sport and even stop playing flute as the condition has worsened this year.

It is now almost impossible for her to walk for more than ten minutes.

BACK TO WALL: Oriana with her father Jonathan there. Some days it is better than others.

“My mum noticed something was wrong with my back when I was three but it took a long time before anyone took it seriously. It was diagnosed when I was seven.

“I have seen all sorts of doctors. But the only treatment available in the UK sees back muscles stripped from the spine and straightened with metal rods.

“My aim has always been to avoid this as patients who use it nearly always suffer some back pain.”

ASC, however, sees a flexible chord attached, which is tightened to help straighten the spine.

Oriana was born in New Zealand but moved to the UK with her family in the hope of better treatment. She attended Weald of Kent Grammar School in Tonbridge.

She was just weeks away from finishing her first

year at the European School of Osteopathy but had to drop out just before her exams began.

The ordeal has caused her anxiety and depression. But she hopes that if her surgery is a success it could lead to the NHS backing it.

“I really want to gain publicity to help others [with the condition] and for ASC to become widely available in the UK,” Oriana added.

Oriana has currently raised more than £4,000.

To donate, visit https://uk.gofundme.com/ orianas-spine

WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS? SCOLIOSIS is a medical condition in which a person’s spine has a sideways curve. The curve is usually “S”- or “C”- shaped. In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others it increases over time.

Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, while severe cases can interfere with breathing.

Adults may need treatment to relieve pain, such as painkillers, spinal injections and, very occasionally, surgery.

Most people with scoliosis are able to live normal lives and can do most activities, including exercise and sports. The condition doesn’t usually cause significant pain or any other health problems, and tends to stay the same after you stop growing.

But in other cases it can be much worse and cause extreme pain. In around eight in every ten cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown, but in other cases it can be brought on by poor posture, diet or lack of exercise.

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Help farmers win the battle against crime

By Duncan Audsley RURAL crime in Wealden district is to be tackled by a new reporting hotline set up by charity CrimeStoppers and the National Farmers Union.

Wealden MP Nus Ghani has backed the idea with East Sussex farmers raising issues of criminal behaviour in the countryside.

This includes: Fly-tipping, livestock worrying and machinery theft.

Ms Ghani said: “This new hotline is very welcome. We have a thriving and dynamic rural economy in Wealden, and rural crime has been a major issue to many of our farmers and food producers.

“The new reporting hotline will make a big difference in cracking down on the devastating impacts of rural crime.

“And, I would encourage anyone to use the hotline if they are suspicious of any potential rural crime, helping to rid this blight.”

Farmers or anyone from the general public can report their concerns of any potential rural crime by calling 0800 783 0137, or by visiting www.ruralcrimereportingonline.uk HOTLINE RING Wealden MP Nus Ghani welcomed the service

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Ashdown Forest is ‘protected’ as 14,000 homes are set to be built

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk AROUND 950 homes will be built every year in Wealden district for the next decade in proposals laid out in a Local Plan.

Councillors on the East Sussex authority’s Planning Committee voted last week to support a modified version of their emerging plan.

The new draft plan identifies the need for 14,228 dwellings to be delivered by 2028. This is 25 per cent higher than a previous draft, which stated the need for 11,456 homes.

The development of the plan has been delayed as councillors decided on how to best safeguard Ashdown Forest. This is a Special Area of Conservation covering 9.5 miles. It includes Five Hundred Acre Wood, the setting of the classic Winnie the Pooh books.

At this stage it has not been stated where homes will be built. Instead, the council has listed areas where development would be possible.

Areas listed as a possibility include: Frant, Bells Yew Green, Mark Cross and Heathfield.

The council has confirmed that residential development will not be permitted within 400 metres of Ashdown Forest Special Protection Area, unless there are ‘exceptional circumstances’.

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Cabinet member steps down due to ill health SENIOR Kent County Council member Cllr John Simmonds has resigned as Cabinet member for Finance due to ill health.

The Conservative will stay as a member of the body representing Canterbury West.

The authority has yet to name a successor.

He said: “I have neither the mobility nor the physical energy to meet the highest standards that I set myself and that the position requires.”

Council Leader Paul Carter said: “John’s wisdom, wit, competence and calmness will be greatly missed.”

Paddock Wood petition ENVIRONMENTAL IMPORTANCE: Ashdown Forest will be safeguarded, say Wealden District Council and Cllr Ann Newton (left) Cllr Ann Newton, the district council’s Cabinet member for Planning, said: “Our proposals are in line with the latest government aims to meet the widespread housing need.

Consultation “Mitigation measures and a thorough review system will ensure that the growth and prosperity needed in Wealden does not conflict with our many environmental responsibilities.

“These include Ashdown Forest, one of the largest stretches of lowland heath in Britain; the

Lewes Chalk Downs and the Pevensey Levels.

“Developers will be expected to install certain infrastructure items on site and make a contribution to ensure this protection succeeds.”

A council document adds: “The document contains a range of environmental measures to ensure growth can proceed without causing irreversible damage to our regionally important ecology.”

After Wealden District Council’s committee approved the draft, it has been put forward for the Full Council Meeting to consider tonight [Wednesday, July 18]. If they give the go-ahead, it will go out to public consultation before being submitted to the government for examination.

PLANS to build a Community Centre on the Memorial Field in Paddock Wood, have prompted a petition against it.

Wendy Morris has objected to the town council’s decision to proceed with the £2.3million development, which would be a multi-use facility from 2020 if plans are passed. Ms Morris said: “I do not think this is the best site, and feel very strongly that the Memorial Ground should be left as a recreational space.”

At the time of writing, more than 250 people had signed the petition at www.change.org

Sailing at Bewl Water TWO charities are to host a sailing taster day for disabled adults at Bewl Water.

Hilary’s Dream Trust and Mariners of Bewl have organised the free event, which takes place on September 1 for those aged 16 and over with no prior sailing knowledge.

To apply to take part, email Kim Mason before August 1 at: kimb4@hotmail.co.uk

National News

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Hosepipe ban firm is failing to tackle waste from leaks THE water company introducing a hosepipe ban has been accused of ‘wasting’ 430 million litres of water every day from leakages.

The GMB union said its research showed that United Utilities was allowing 175 Olympic-sized swimming pools’ worth of water to go ‘down the plughole’ every day.

The north-west based company, which is banning the use of hosepipes from August 5, said it had cut leakages by half since the 1990s.

Stuart Fegan, GMB national officer, said: “It’s a disgrace that customers face a £1,000 fine as private water fat cats trouser millions, all the while failing to invest to tackle leakages.

Sniffer dogs “While we have had hot weather, the UK uses less than 2 per cent of the water that falls from the sky each year and which flows into the sea.

“Whatever the weather, we need to take back the tap and ensure our water services are run in the interests of the public once more and not just the few at the top.”

A United Utilities spokesman said: “Reducing leaks is a top priority. We have cut leakage by half since the 1990s and are working hard to do even more.

“We now use satellites to help to detect leaks, and we have just recruited a team of sniffer dogs trained to pinpoint leaks in rural areas where the water does not always show on the surface.”

“Currently, there are over 160 full-time inspectors detecting leaks across the region. Since the Beast from the East severe weather event in February and response to the ongoing drought, we have increased both our leakage detection and repair activities by around 50 per cent.”

Vote Leave campaign fined after breaking electoral law THE official Brexit campaign organisation at the 2016 referendum has been fined tens of thousands of pounds and senior figures referred to the police for breaking electoral law.

Vote Leave, which was supported by senior politicians including Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, failed to declare money it spent with controversial data firm Aggregate IQ, the Electoral Commission said.

Its investigation found ‘significant evidence’ of joint working between Vote Leave – which has been fined £61,000 – and youth Brexit group BeLeave, which was founded by student Darren Grimes.

Mr Grimes was fined £20,000 and referred to the Metropolitan Police along with David Halsall, who was the responsible person for Vote Leave, ‘in relation to false declarations of campaign spending’, the Commission added.

The Commission found that a donation of almost £680,000 made by Vote Leave to BeLeave was spent with Aggregate IQ ‘under a common plan with Vote Leave’, and should have been declared.

This took Vote Leave over its £7million legal spending limit by almost £500,000.

Bob Posner, the Electoral Commission’s Director of Politi-

CAMPAIGN TRAIL Darren Grimes (left) with Michael Gove

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Ex-leader Farron sorry for missing Brexit vote FORMER Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron has apologised after missing two knife-edge Brexit votes.

The party faced an angry backlash when Mr Farron and his successor, Sir Vince Cable, were absent when the Government scraped through by just three votes on key customs proposals.

Mr Farron insisted he took ‘full responsibility’ for his failure to turn up but said the results had not been expected to have been as close as they were.

Strike at Luton airport cal Finance, said: “We found substantial evidence that the two groups worked to a ­common plan, did not declare their joint working and did not adhere to the legal spending limits.

“These are serious breaches of the laws put in place by Parliament to ensure fairness and transparency at elections and referendums.”

Vote Leave was the official registered Brexit-supporting campaign group for the 2016 referendum.

The original allegations against the campaigns came from information provided by whistleblowers including Christopher Wylie and Shahmir Sanni, who alleged the money

was used to pay Aggregate IQ for targeted messaging services on Facebook and other social media.

Mr Wylie worked for Cambridge Analytica, the data firm at the centre of the Facebook privacy scandal, while Mr Sanni worked with BeLeave.

Vote Leave is the latest Brexit referendum group to be castigated by the Commission after Leave.EU was fined a recordequalling £70,000 and its Chief Executive Liz Bilney referred to police in May over its spending.

Vote Leave said the Electoral Commission’s report contained ‘a number of false accusations and incorrect assertions that are wholly inaccurate and do not stand up to scrutiny’.

WORKERS who help disabled passengers at Luton Airport are staging a 48-hour strike in a dispute over pay and zero-hours contracts.

Members of the Unite union who are employed by Clece Care Services formed a picket line and will stay on strike until tomorrow [Thursday] morning.

Unite regional officer Jeff Hodge said: “The workers’ demands are reasonable. They want an end to zero-hours and their pay brought up to the real living wage.

Jackpot winner unknown THE UK winner of a £57.9 million EuroMillions jackpot has yet to come forward to claim the prize, leading operator Camelot to urge players to check their tickets.

The winning ticket for the July 10 draw was bought in the UK and is worth £57,975,367.70 for matching all five main numbers – 3, 8, 26, 33, 45 – and Lucky Star numbers 7 and 10.

Camelot said it would reveal more about the area where the ticket was bought if no claim has been staked by around July 24.

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NEWS

National News

UKIP councillor guilty of murdering his wife A FORMER UKIP councillor has been found guilty of the murder of his wife months after he had an affair with their son’s partner.

Ex-Royal Marine Stephen Searle, 64, of Stowmarket, claimed his 62-year-old wife Anne Searle attacked him with a knife and he was defending himself, but jurors at Ipswich Crown Court took three-and-a-half hours to find him guilty of her murder.

Prosecutor Andrew Jackson said Searle had probably placed his wife in a choke hold that he had knowledge of from his military training.

Searle showed no reaction as the verdict was read out yesterday [Tuesday] following the six-day trial.

A post-mortem examination recorded that Mrs Searle died of compression of the neck.

Searle had been married to his wife for 45 years and they had three sons together.

Private tuition for quarter of pupils ONE in four secondary school pupils has supplemented school lessons with private tuition, a poll has suggested.

The Sutton Trust, which commissioned the poll, said the findings fuelled their concerns about educational inequalities and called on the Government to support lower income families.

The poll, conducted by Ipsos MORI, involved 2,381 11 to 16-year-olds in England and Wales, with 27 per cent saying they had used private tutors. In London, this figure stood at 41 per cent.

The trust’s Chairman, Sir Peter Lampl, said: “If we are serious about social mobility, we need to make sure that the academic playing field is levelled outside of the school gate by the state providing funding for private tuition on a meanstested basis.”

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Google set to start local job searches

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex attend the Nelson Mandela centenary exhibition at the Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall in London with former antiapartheid campaigner and ex-MP Peter Hain (left). The event features archive footage and photographs telling the story of the former South African President.

Home Office failed to examine response to Rotherham claims THE Home Office had opportunities to question the response of the police and other agencies to reports of child sexual exploitation in Rotherham years before the scandal erupted in the town, according to a newly published review.

An investigation into what information had been passed to the Home Office, published yesterday [Tuesday], found that key documents could not be located but concluded details were available to officials which could have been followed up.

The Labour MP for Rotherham, Sarah Champion,

responded to the latest report into events in the South Yorkshire town, saying: “How many lives could have been protected if swift action had been taken a decade before?”

Knowledge She added: “It is clear that the Home Office knew about child sexual exploitation in Rotherham from 2002.

“The report also highlights the knowledge of the local authority and South Yorkshire Police of the abuse.”

In a written statement to the

Commons in response to the review, Home Secretary Sajid Javid said: “The review did find that pieces of information questioning the response of statutory services were available to the Home Office, meaning that opportunities to follow up on, or seek further information about, matters in Rotherham, including whether the police and other statutory agencies were responding appropriately, existed.”

Mr Javid said that, since 2014, the Home Office has introduced a recording and referral system for allegations of child abuse.

JOB seekers will be able to ask Google to find ‘jobs near me’ as the company makes its first foray into the UK’s recruitment sector.

The new job search feature will make it easier to find jobs as it gathers openings from existing recruitment agencies into one place directly from its search engine, Google said.

Positions will be ranked on relevance and quality, using spam detection software to filter out any fraudulent job postings.

Those who have a Gmail account can also choose to receive an email alert whenever a new job match comes up, or they can tap a button to keep track of an individual job post.

Google is working with a number of established players including The Guardian Jobs, Reed.co.uk, The Telegraph, CV Library and totallylegal that will take users directly to the application page.

No separation for Hillsborough trial AN APPLICATION to separate the joint trial of ex-Sheffield Wednesday club secretary Graham Mackrell and Hillsborough match commander David Duckenfield has been rejected.

On Tuesday, lawyers on behalf of Mackrell, 68, argued his case for alleged offences in connection with the 1989 disaster should be heard by a different jury.

But the application to sever was turned down at Preston Crown Court by Sir Peter Openshaw and both men will stand trial together at the same court, as scheduled, on January 14 next year.

Mackrell is charged with an offence involving the stadium safety certificate and a health and safety offence.

Duckenfield, 73, is accused of the gross negligence manslaughter of 95 Liverpool supporters.

National Business and World News

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Inflation to rise after hike in energy costs HIKES in energy costs and petrol prices are expected to send UK inflation to its highest level in four months when official figures are disclosed today [Wednesday].

A consensus of economists expect the Office for National Statistics’ June Consumer Price Index [CPI] to come in at 2.6 per cent, up from 2.4 per cent in both May and April.

The last time CPI was higher was in February, when inflation was 2.7 per cent.

DJ Solomon calls tune GOLDMAN SACHS has confirmed that Chief Operating Officer David Solomon will replace Lloyd Blankfein as Chief Executive, ending a 12-year stint for the outgoing boss.

Mr Solomon – known on the dance floor as DJ Sol – will join the board on October 1 after Mr Blankfein steps down, and will take on the Chairmanship by the end of the year.

The long-time banker replaces one of the longest-serving Wall Street bosses, with Mr Blankfein’s leadership having both survived and outlasted the financial crisis.

Fall in Netflix shares NETFLIX shares fell 14 per cent in extended trading on Monday [July 16], after the company reported slowing growth in subscriber numbers.

The company gained 5.1million subscribers worldwide during the April-June quarter, more than one million below the number that management had believed it could.

It marked the first time in a more than a year that Netflix had not exceeded its subscriber growth projections.

SPORT IN BRIEF

Frome and Thomas fall further behind leader

DOUBLE Olympic skeleton champion Lizzy Yarnold has had surgery for a long-standing back problem.

The 29-year-old from Sevenoaks had the operation to fix slipped discs.

“Now felt like a good time to have the operation done, I couldn’t manage the pain any longer,” she said.

“I’m not feeling great right now but here’s hoping recovery will be speedy.”

Lampard’s young stars DERBY COUNTY have signed two of English football’s promising tyros, Mason Mount and Harry Wilson, on season-long loans.

The pair join from Chelsea and Liverpool respectively to become Frank Lampard’s first signings at the club.

Midfielder Mount spent last season at Vitesse Arnhem in Holland, scoring 14 goals, and was named their player of the year.

Wilson is the youngest player to represent Wales at 16 years and 208 days old and spent last season on loan at Hull.

21

£20billion boost for NHS will Concern remains pay growth mean debt is not sustainable over after job figures

THE Government’s promise of a £20billion boost for the NHS will put debt on an ‘unsustainable upward trajectory’ without tax rises or spending cuts to pay for it, the Office for Budget Responsibility [OBR] has warned.

A fiscal ‘tightening’ totalling around £111billion in today’s money could be needed in 2023-24 to get debt under control, the official forecaster said.

In its Fiscal Sustainability Report, the OBR said that, without changes to tax and spending policy, public sector net debt could rise from 80 per cent of GDP in 2022 to almost 283 per cent by 2067.

And it also dismissed suggestions that the increased NHS spending could be paid for with any ‘Brexit dividend’, stating: “Brexit is more likely to weaken than strengthen the public finances overall.”

It said: “On current policy we would expect the budget deficit to widen significantly over the long term, putting public sector net debt on a rising trajectory as a share of national income. This would not be sustainable.

Tightening “The main lesson of our analysis is that future governments are likely to have to undertake some additional tightening beyond the fiscal plans in place for the next five years in order to address the fiscal costs of an ageing population and upward pressures on health spending.

“Leaving all or part of the June 2018 health

NO DEAL ‘Brexit dividend’ will not pay for the NHS spending announcement unfunded would simply require greater action later.”

Announcing her plan for a £20.5billion annual real-terms rise in health spending by 2023-24 last month, Prime Minister Theresa May acknowledged that taxpayers ‘will have to contribute a bit more in a fair and balanced way’.

But she did not put a figure on the increase, and said that some of the extra funding would come from savings from contributions to EU budgets after Brexit.

Asked, following the publication of the OBR report, whether the Prime Minister still believed there would be a Brexit dividend, Mrs May’s official spokesman said: “Yes, there are substantial sums of money which we are currently sending to Brussels. Once we have left the EU, we will no longer have to do so.”

The spokesman declined to discuss future tax rises, but said: “It remains a Government priority to continue to reduce the debt burden.”

Trump says criticism of Putin summit is ‘crazy’ fake news PRESIDENT Donald Trump has hit back at critics of his meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

Mr Trump called the Monday summit in Helsinki ‘even better’ than his meeting with Nato allies last week in Brussels.

He is facing bipartisan criticism for his refusal to publicly challenge his presidential counterpart over Russia’s election hacking and for doubting US intelligence agency conclusions about Russian meddling in the 2016 campaign.

Trump backers, including House Speaker Paul Ryan, Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Bob Corker, and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich have criticised his performance.

Mr Trump took aim at a familiar target, the media, saying his Nato meeting was ‘great’ but that he ‘had an even better meeting with Vladimir Putin of Russia. Sadly, it is not being reported that way – the Fake News is going Crazy!’

Former US President Barack Obama appeared

THE Government, business groups and unions have welcomed another increase in the number of people in work, but worries continue on the pace of pay growth.

Ministers hailed figures showing that the women’s employment rate has remained at a joint record high of 71.3 per cent.

Anna Leach, of the CBI, said: “The labour market continues to confound expectations of a slowdown, with the employment rate at another record high and the unemployment rate the lowest since the 1970s.

“But, despite high vacancies, pay growth has slipped to a six-month low, keeping up the pressure on people’s living standards.”

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Wage growth has slowed again. Boosting pay packets should be a priority for the Government, but ministers are failing to act.

Sting “The Government should put the minimum wage up to £10 and give all public servants a proper pay rise.”

Tej Parikh, of the Institute of Directors, said: “Today’s figures underscore the UK’s resilient labour market, but sub-par wage growth remains a sting in the tail.”

Suren Thiru, of the British Chambers of Commerce, said the slowdown ‘means that earnings growth in real terms remains in positive territory by just a small margin and so is unlikely to provide much of a boost to consumer spending power’.

“UK wage growth continues to be undermined by poor productivity and the marked impact of underemployment.”

Libyan coastguard accused to leaving migrants in the sea

BACK TO BACK Barack Obama (right) with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa

GREG VAN AVERMAET extended his lead to more than two minutes with a superb ride as Frenchman Julian Alaphilippe won stage 10 of the Tour de France.

The Belgian was expected to surrender the lead he has held since stage three’s team time-trial as the race moved into the Alps.

But the BMC rider won the 158.5km route from Annecy to Le Grand-Bornand in fourth place, 1min 39sec ahead of the main group of contenders, which included Team Sky’s Chris Froome and Geraint Thomas.

Surgery for Yarnold

NEWS

to take aim at his successor, Mr Trump, in his most high-profile speech since leaving office.

In an address at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg marking the 100th anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s birth, he urged respect for human rights and other values now under threat.

Disturbing He opened by saying, ‘each day’s news cycle is bringing more head-spinning and disturbing headlines’. He added: “We see much of the world threatening to return to a more dangerous, more brutal, way of doing business.”

He targeted politicians pushing ‘politics of fear, resentment, retrenchment’, saying they are moving ‘at a pace unimaginable just a few years ago’.

He also attacked ‘strongman politics’, saying: “Those in power seek to undermine every institution...that gives democracy meaning”.

A MIGRANT aid group has accused Libya’s coast guard of abandoning three people in the Mediterranean Sea, including a woman and a toddler who died.

It came after the interception of 160 Europebound migrants near the shores of the North African nation.

Proactiva Open Arms, a Spanish rescue group, said it had found one woman alive yesterday [Tuesday] and another one dead, along with the body of a toddler, amid the drifting remains of a destroyed migrant boat.

The wrecked migrant boat was found 80 nautical miles from the Libyan coast.

The group posted images online and also accused a merchant ship of failing to help.

Charity inspections over baby sale claims INDIA’S government has ordered inspections of all centres run by Mother Teresa’s charity.

The move follows the arrest of a nun and a worker at one of its shelters for unwed mothers for allegedly selling a baby.

The arrest early this month followed a complaint by an Indian couple that they paid 120,000 rupees to Anima Indwar, who worked at the shelter run by the Missionaries of Charity in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand state in eastern India.

Police said they were investigating three other complaints.

Spokeswoman Sunita Kumar declined to comment on the government statement, but earlier said the Missionaries of Charity was investigating the allegations.

22

NEWS

Letters

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

And another thing…

This is the page where you, the reader, have your chance to express your views or comments on what’s going on in our part of the world. We like to hear from you. You can email us at newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk or write to the Editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU Our MP’s actions are disturbing, and do not bode well for democratic process Greg Clark [MP for Tunbridge Wells] and his fellow Remainers in the Cabinet are nearly there, they’ve almost succeeded in frustrating the democratic will of the people by blocking the expressed wish to leave Europe.

But there’s many a slip ’twixt cup and lip, and it may provide an opportunity for him to reflect on the nature of the UK’s democratic Parliamentary process and his part in it.

In 2015, Mr Clark voted in Parliament for a referendum; implicit in this was an acceptance of the result. That this result was not what he expected or wanted is neither here nor there.

Further, the 2017 general election was fought on this almost single issue: Staying or leaving.

The Conservative Party’s policy was one of Leave, he signed up to that and he stood on that platform.

Furthermore, more than 70 per cent of Conservative voters voted to leave. The turnout was bigger than seen hitherto. The result was a clear victory to Leave.

Mr Clark’s subsequent actions are deeply disturbing and do not bode well for this nation’s democratic process.

The argument in some naysayer quarters is ‘we did not sign up for that’ and ‘this wasn’t explained to us, we weren’t aware of the details’.

Well, this is true of all election results: What follows them rarely matches what is said in the hustings, out on the stump, in manifestos.

Show commitment – by resigning Cllr Paul Carter’s derisory comments (and meaningless apologies) about part-time staff [June 27] are the tip of the iceberg for Kent County Council [KCC]. While his position as council Leader has clearly become untenable, the job of restoring staff morale and public trust in the KCC’s employment practices will require root and branch reform.

The views held by senior leadership tend to permeate organisational culture at every level.

When those views lead to an unfair working culture, those who seek to challenge are easily ignored. There is nowhere to turn when the message comes from the very top.

A new face of leadership is now the only way part-time staff can begin to have faith in the council’s fair treatment of them.

And the figures show there is a lot of work to be done. The annual staff performance report revealed that 14 per cent fewer part-time staff were appraised as having ‘exceeded expectations’ than their full-time colleagues.

This means part-time employees were far less likely to be considered for an annual bonus and presumably other career progression.

In fact, the county council’s gender bonus pay gap is even wider at 25.1 per cent – showing that KCC needs to dig very deep in relation to its equality agenda.

Of course, the majority of those part-time staff

FRUSTRATING MP Greg Clark

On this point the environmentalists remain curiously mute. Their uncompromising mantra is ‘no more fossil fuels now, and forever’.

Dr Robert Chris’s more recent contribution [July 4] adds little other than a recitation of climate change policy and doctrine on which, I infer, Mr Baker does not disagree.

Isn’t his fundamental argument one of self-sufficiency: Buy foreign or make it here?

Because there is no other choice currently available.

Sam Goodenough Tunbridge Wells

We must shore up our resources

Mr Clark may reflect on all this during his long sojourn on the back benches – especially his part in (nearly) wrecking our Parliamentary democracy.

Hugh Masters Pembury referred to by Cllr Carter are likely to be women.

Women still provide the vast majority of all family caring, therefore allowing them less time in the workplace.

If part-time workers are systematically undervalued, as Cllr Carter has demonstrated, it’s women who bear the cost.

He must show his commitment to equality by recognising – not explaining away – his own leadership failure and making way for change.

Celine Thomas Branch Leader, Women’s Equality Party, Tunbridge Wells

Greens’ policy like Soviet ideology I’ve been following the correspondence between Edward Baker and, variously, the Greens and Friends of the Earth. As a disinterested observer, I offer the following: The Greens, et al, want to stop burning all fossil fuels today, leaving us powerless – literally, and the Lord to provide for and manage what may follow.

I am reminded of the Soviet collectivisation programme on the 1930s: Millions starved to death in pursuit of political ideology.

Mr Baker’s argument is that abandoning fossil fuels at a stroke is unrealistic, and that if their use is part of the current mix, and may remain so for a while, why not source it on UK shores, thereby freeing the country from the grip of foreign interests?

Again I found myself reaching for my past letters regarding fossil fuels and the Green Party.

Previously, it was the Green Party’s Steve Jackson who misquoted me – to his and his cause’s advantage, of course; this time, it was his party colleague Howard Porter [June 27].

Mr Porter says I ‘might see the threat of climate change as a scaremongering indulgence’. I said no such thing: I said that his party’s rhetoric was scaremongering jargon – I beg the difference.

But what price truth in the face of zealotry?

History shows this is an early casualty.

What both Messrs Jackson and Porter fail to acknowledge is my repeated point that, if our energy mix contains a proportion of gas, wouldn’t it be better – for economic, strategic and security reasons – to source it on-shore?

Given its abundance and smaller carbon footprint, all the current coal-fired plants could be shut down while simultaneously pursuing more sustainable energy sources – the holy grail that the Green Party believes is available to us the minute we turn off all our fossil-burning plants, the magic energy tree.

It’s a pragmatic approach, which recognises that we cannot get where we want to be in one giant step, an approach that does not chuck out the baby with the bathwater.

Enough of the rhetoric; enough of the blather and high-sounding, drama-laden sentiments.

Let’s keep our feet on the ground and deal with the practicalities.

Edward Baker Via email

Cars for roads, bikes for off-road I have no strong feelings either way regarding the civic centre project, but I would point out that well under 20 per cent of eligible voters opposed it.

If the Tunbridge Wells Alliance were so confident of community support, they should have put up more candidates. Other than their opposition to the project, they have absolutely nothing to offer the voters of Tunbridge Wells.

As do cyclists. They are not insured, and pay no road tax for cycling on roads more than paid for by motorists; if cyclists own cars, let them use cars on roads and bicycles off-road.

Cyclists cause more atmospheric pollution by slowing down vehicles, thereby preventing engines from operating closer to their optimum, than they would ever save by pedalling.

And don’t get me started on totally

unenforceable, pollution-increasing, congestion causing 20mph speed limits. And yes, I do drive a car, use public transport and walk.

Having lived in Tunbridge Wells for 43 years, I feel it’s about time I wrote to the local paper; I may not last another 43.

Chris Camp Via email

What council wants vs what we need This Tory Tunbridge Wells Borough Council continues not to invest in the infrastructure in and around this town, but has the temerity to proceed with the huge cost of new council offices and a theatre.

It is clear that they are content to see poor traffic flows into and out of town, which dissuade folk from coming to Tunbridge Wells, and also to see our backstreets congested with parked vehicles – many of them parked on our pavements, which is unsightly and forms a hazard to pedestrians.

Of course, these fundamentals mean little to those who are overtly leapfrogging local sentiment against this vanity project.

Perhaps they have avoided living in our town, and who can blame them?

But we can blame them for a complete disregard of the real needs of us who live and work in our town. The arrogance of [council Leader] David Jukes (who doesn’t) is shameful.

Who benefits, and who will end up paying for this extravagance? It must be clear by now that this administration has failed us and politics in this borough desperately need to change.

Martin Dawes Via email

Hold a referendum on civic centre I am an avid reader of And Another Thing… and like a lot of local residents I am up in arms about the proposed development at Calverley Grounds.

How and when was this voted through? Because no one I have spoken to seemed to know anything about it until it became a fait accompli.

Might I suggest that Tunbridge Wells Borough Council takes a page out of the government’s book and holds a referendum of local ratepayers, and see what they think of it? Of course, that might spoil some councillors’ bid for fame and glory.

Also, how has the contractor been appointed when no one seemed to know anything about it, until the deed was done – namely the ratepayers?

I join Mrs J Moore in congratulating Messrs Bob Atwood and Brian Ransley on challenging this legally.

David Hickey Via email

Pub in the Park ticked all boxes We had the perfect weekend out at Pub in the Park. Exceptional food, some amazing artisans, celebrity chefs and great music to get you dancing (oh and the football). There was nothing to dislike about this festival.

Martin McAleese Via email

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

Calverley is away

Education

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

NEWS

23

EDUCATION Times WITH THE

International approach to local learning works!

Tonbridge Grammar School students celebrate outstanding International Baccalaureate results LAST week 128 pupils at Tonbridge Grammar School received the results of their International Baccalaureate exams and they certainly had cause to celebrate.

Three sixth form pupils achieved an impressive 44 points out of a possible 45, with a further four achieving 43 and six being awarded 42 points. The results were some of

the highest in the country.

The International Baccalaureate [IB] programme is an academically rigorous one which is designed to develop critical thinking skills and create breadth of experience and knowledge; while at the same time preparing students for both higher education and the world of work.

Of the Tonbridge Grammar

ON A WAVE OF SUCCESS: After hearing their phenomenal International Baccalaureate exam results, sixth form students and teachers at Tonbridge Grammar School show their joy at being among the best in the land – easily beating the national average

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS: Proudly heading for university are (l-r) Anna Priestley (York), Isabella Burton (Bath), Stephanie Clarke (Birmingham), Eli Nelson (Cambridge) and Katie Wheeler (after taking a gap year)

group, 41% scored 38 points and above (equivalent to 3A* and 1A at A Level), while 77% of this year’s Diploma graduates achieved points totals that put them in the highest echelons of UK academic achievement (3A* at A Level).

This continues the school’s strong record of achievement since having moved to an exclusively IB Diploma Sixth Form six years ago. The national average score is 29.78.

On learning of her students’ success Head Teacher Rosemary Joyce said: “Congratulations to all our IB Diploma students for their truly outstanding achievement.

Prized “Not only are they amongst the very best in the world academically, but we know their Diploma experience has

equipped them academically and more broadly with the skills and qualities prized by higher education and employers. With the Diploma behind them, our students really do have a competitive edge and can look forward to a bright future.

“Congratulations also to the dedicated and inspirational team of staff who work tirelessly to support our students to such fantastic success.”

24

NEWS

Weekly Comment

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Tom Tugendhat MP for Tonbridge & Malling

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Tom Tugendhat, MBE, left the British Army in July 2013 after a career in which he served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and as the military assistant to the Chief of the Defence Staff.

As a Territorial Army officer, he worked on everything from those ops to establishing the Armed Forces Muslim Association, and also worked for the Foreign Office. He was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015, and was elected Chair of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee in July 2017

The Ministry of Justice must be held to account YOU may well recognise the name, or bright and happy face of Tony Hudgell, or his adoptive parents Paula and Mark, who live in Kings Hill.

To anyone who sees them now they look like any other happy family with Tony, a happy threeyear-old child. But sadly, this young boy had a truly shocking start to life.

In February this year, Tony Smith and Jody Simpson were found guilty of ‘Causing or Allowing Serious Harm to a Child & Child Cruelty’, to their 41 day old son, Tony.

That charge doesn’t begin to describe the pain those two people caused a child. At the hands of his parents, Tony suffered multiple fractures of his limbs, dislocations of various joints, blunt trauma to his face and multiple other injuries.

His parents waited ten days before they took him to hospital. When he was there, and just over five weeks old, Tony developed sepsis, toxic shock and multi organ failure.

Thankfully, the outstanding work of the NHS allowed him to survive.

But sadly that was not the end of the suffering caused to Tony, and just last year as a result of the injuries and infections he had sustained as a baby, both of his legs were amputated. Going forward, Tony will still need multiple operations for the rest of life.

For all the violence, suffering, and pain that

two parents inflicted on their five-week-old son, they were handed just ten years in prison.

They’ll only be in prison for few years but for Tony, it’s a lifetime.

Five months on, and Jody Simpson is appealing the length of her sentence. For the Hudgell family, this came as a shock. They had to fight hard for Tony’s torturers to be prosecuted in the first place. When I first met them the Crown Prosecution Service said there wasn’t enough evidence.

Together we worked with the Kent Police to make them change their minds.

PRESSURE The Ministry of Justice headquarters in London

Prison Tony’s real family Paula and Mark aren’t objecting to the appeal, they’re trying to ensure that more children like Tony are protected. That’s why they’re campaigning for longer maximum sentences. They’re right.

In March I asked the Ministry of Justice to allow judges to give longer sentences for these abhorrent crimes. So far, they’re not shifting. When we see cases like this, it shows this is not good enough. Tony Smith and Jody Simpson received the maximum sentence available, but they’ll be out before the next World Cup. That’s not right.

We need change, and the Hudgell family need more support. I will continue fighting for them,

but we can’t do it without your help. They have already created an online petition calling for the Secretary of State for implement tougher sentences for child neglect and cruelty, and need as many signatures as they can get. To support this incredibly important campaign, please visit change.org and search ‘#justiceforbear’.

The Hudgell family are incredibly strong, and the work they have done so far is nothing short of exceptional. As an MP I deal with a wide range of issues, and this is one of the saddest. I look forward to working with them to make sure that other children do not suffer in the same way that Tony did. I hope you can support our campaign.

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

yourh me INSPIRATION FOR MOVING

AND IMPROVING

AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROPERTY, IN TERIORS, TOP TRENDS AN D GARDENING

26

IDEAL FOR ACCESS TO GRAMMARS

34

Kitchen cool Bringing the outdoors in Page 34

A THOROUGHLY MODERN REVAMP

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yourh me

To suit your budget

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Your at-a-glance guide to

WILMAN ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS GUIDE PRICE

£685,000

UNDER £250,000

n Bathroom

UNDER £500,000

n Downstairs WC

SOUTHWOOD ROAD RUSTHALL

n Loft space

ASHLEY PARK RUSTHALL

n 3 Bedrooms

£215,000

n Double glazing

£450,000

n Gas-fired heating and double glazing

n Delightful one-bedroom modern cluster house with parking

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CONTACT

n Canopied porch n Open-plan living room and modern kitchen n Bedroom overlooking allotments

n Gas-fired heating n Garden

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

n Dining room with fireplace n Kitchen and utility room

n Bathroom with separate WC

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

To suit your budget

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

thekn w

27

great properties by price range…

UNDER £600,000 ERSKINE PARK ROAD, RUSTHALL

GUIDE PRICE

£490,000 n Refurbished three-bedroom house n Spacious sitting room n Kitchen/dining room with glass roof to one side and French doors to patio n Cloakroom n Master bedroom with en suite n 2 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Loft room (currently used as an office) n Attractive garden with paved patio n Single garage CONTACT McAuley Miller Tunbridge Wells 01892 614777 www.mcauleymiller.com

UNDER £700,000 WHITEFIELD ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£499,950-£525,000 n Victorian semi-detached home with character features n Reception room n Dining room n Modern kitchen and utility lobby n Downstairs WC n Master bedroom n 2 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Front and rear gardens CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £750,000

UNDER £1MILLION

WILMAN ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

n Master bedroom with en suite

GUIDE PRICE

n Modern bathroom

£685,000

n Pretty rear garden with decked terrace and shed

n Stylish, spacious fourbedroom family home

n Access to and use of local privately owned playing fields

n Catchment area for soughtafter schools

n Driveway parking for 2 cars

n Kitchen/breakfast room

n Single garage

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n Elegant living room with wood-burning stove n Kitchen/dining/family room with with a rear wall of bifold doors opening to garden

n 3 further bedrooms

CONTACT Flying Fish Properties Southborough 01892 514189 www.flyingfishproperties.co.uk

BADGERS HOLT, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£750,000-£775,000 n Upgraded semi in gated development n Living room and dining room

n 3 further bedrooms (one en suite) n Family bathroom n Integral garage, driveway and gardens n Access to estate gym and grounds CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

34

yourh me

Langmead

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

This 1970s property has been fully refurbished, transforming it into an exceptional 21st-century home

AT A GLANCE LANGMEAD VICARAGE ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Double-fronted detached house n Sought after Southborough location with open countryside views n Reception hallway n Family room/home office n Large living room with wood-burning stove n Stylish kitchen/dining room with statement stone wall, walk-in larder and entire back wall of sliding glass doors to balcony and garden n Utility room n Guest bedroom n Shower room n Master bedroom suite with dressing room n 4 further double bedrooms n Family Bathroom n Off-road parking for several cars n Landscaped rear garden with terrace, outside kitchen and waterfall pond n Summerhouse with electricity

Stunning dĂŠcor and outdoor kitchen make this improved home stand out

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Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

thekn w.guide IN PRINT AND ONLINE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

School’s out

ARTS & CULTURE | LIFE & STYLE |

FOOD & DRINK | MOTORING

53

See our special summer guide Page 60

CARE TO DANCE?

57

A taste of the exotic We travel to South Africa Page 64

RAISE A GLASS

56

Ballerina girl

TEMPT YOUR TASTEBUDS

70

Meet Mica Bradbury Page 50

WINNING WAYS

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Arts & Culture

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

A step in the right direction

Having grown up in Tunbridge Wells, Mica Bradbury is now a successful professional dancer with the Royal Ballet Company. At the end of the month, she returns to her home town to teach a workshop for aspiring dancers. Eileen Leahy finds out more about this brilliant ballerina…

M

ICA BRADBURY may only be 23 years old, but the Southborough-born dancer has achieved rather a lot so far in life.

Not only has she danced for The Queen and toured all over the world, she has recently performed in the Royal Ballet’s esteemed production of Giselle and pirouetted her way through Liam Scarlett’s interpretation of Swan Lake, to huge critical acclaim.

Mica attended her first dance class at the tender age of three, accompanied by her grandmother, who took her to Associates, a Tonbridge dance school.

While there, Mica loved learning a variety of different styles, such as jazz, tap, modern and ballet.

“I enjoyed it so much I attended every single week and did not miss a class,” she tells me.

When she was just eight, her ballet teacher suggested that she and a few other dancers should audition for the Royal Ballet Junior Associates programme in Covent Garden, London.

“I had never heard of the Royal Ballet and neither had my family,” laughs Mica. And although she says the auditions were an ‘amazing experience’, she admits that they were also a very ‘tough and rigorous’ process.

Happily, though, she was accepted:

“I was the only member of my dance school to be offered a place in the programme. I was so excited and felt very privileged,” she says.

The next two years of Mica’s life were hard work, not just for her, she says, but also for her ‘incredible’ parents, who travelled into London with her every Saturday morning so she could take part in the two-and-a-half-hour class.

“I learnt so much and thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience,” she

reveals. “I was lucky enough to be chosen to dance at Buckingham Palace for The Queen’s 80th birthday, and also performed Swan Lake with the Australian Ballet at the London Coliseum.

“In my second year of Junior Associates, when I was ten, my teacher suggested that instead of going to a regular secondary school, I should audition for White Lodge – the Royal Ballet School in Richmond – which would involve me boarding and living away from home.”

She adds that the chances of her being offered a place were very slim in her view, as thousands of girls and boys across the country, and from abroad, audition for one of the prestigious 12 places for girls (and 12 for boys) every year.

“At no point did I think that I would be offered a place, but I really wanted to give it a good go, just to see how far I could get. Also, I felt that it would be a really good experience for me.”

After a series of auditions, the final callback was narrowed down to 32 possible White Lodge pupils.

“I was amazed to hear that I would be in that group of 32,” smiles Mica. “The final audition took place at White Lodge, where we were also interviewed by a panel and had a tour of the wonderful grounds.

“And although my parents were very supportive, they did not want me to attend the school if I was offered a place

‘The most important attributes in becoming a ballerina are hard work and a love and passion for dancing’

as they did not want me to live away from home!”

However, Mica was lucky enough to win a place and joined White Lodge when she was 11 and just going into year 7.

“My parents did agree to me attending the Royal Ballet School, and I managed to keep my place all the way through to year 11.

“But my dad made sure he picked me up and brought back to

Arts & Culture

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Tunbridge Wells to see my family every weekend for the whole five years I was there!”

After White Lodge, Mica auditioned for a place in the Royal Ballet Upper School in Covent Garden, and spent the next three ‘wonderful’ years living there before graduating as a professional ballerina.

“In my final year, I auditioned and got my first job as a professional ballet dancer with the Royal Ballet of Flanders in Belgium. I lived and danced there from the age of 19 to 21.

“My two years living abroad were an amazing experience, and I was able to work closely with famous choreographers such as Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Marcia Haydée.

“In 2016 I was invited to audition for a place back with the Royal Ballet and was offered a lifetime contract. I have now been a corps de ballet artist for the past two years, and in the near future I will be working hard to keep progressing through the ranks of the company, with the goal of becoming a principal dancer.”

Mica has just finished in the successful Royal Ballet run of Swan Lake, choreographed by Liam Scarlett, performing 26 shows at the Royal Opera House, and is about to head to Madrid with the production.

Travel has played a big part for her at the Royal Ballet so far: “In my time with the company I have been fortunate enough to take part in end of season tours to Australia,

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See this catch of the day…

Next week, the EM Forster Theatre welcomes Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales, a fun production celebrating Julia Donaldson’s most popular children’s stories. Here, the famed author reveals what it’s like seeing her beloved books brought to life on stage

FLYING HIGH Mica showing her balletic elegance Japan, Hungary and Spain, all of which were a dream come true for any young ballerina.”

On her most recent works, Swan Lake and Giselle, Mica says they were two of the ‘hardest yet most rewarding’ so far in her repertoire.

“But they are also two of my personal favourites. I love being able to play a character and enjoy the extra challenge of having to act and tell a story.

“I have always loved dancing, and am lucky to have some natural qualities such as musicality, coordination and flow. However, natural ability can only get you so far in ballet. To reach a professional standard you have to put lots of work into building strength and perfecting your classical

technique, and you also need creativity to develop your own artistic and performance skills.

“Ballet does require a lot of discipline, but I truly believe the most important attributes in becoming a ballerina are hard work and a love and passion for dancing.”

It would seem that this young, talented ballerina will go far, not just in dancing but in life, thanks to this attitude.

Mica will be teaching a week-long workshop from July 30 until August 3 at St Gregory’s School in Tunbridge Wells, where she hopes to inspire young dancers. To book tickets to the ‘Mica Bradbury’s Ballet Summer School’, email micabeau@gmail.com. The cost of the workshop is £85.

TIDDLER & Other Terrific Tales weaves together four stories by Julia Donaldson, the multi-awardwinning author of some of the world’s best loved children’s books, most notably the modern classic The Gruffalo, which has sold over 13 million copies worldwide.

Julia is best known for her popular rhyming stories for children, especially those illustrated

by Axel Scheffler, which include Zog, Stick Man and Room on the Broom.

In Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales, live music and puppetry bring to life a whole host of colourful characters from her well-loved titles Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, The Smartest Giant in Town and A Squash and a Squeeze.

Having played in the West End and all over the world, the production now returns for a 2018 tour.

Win-win Julia remembers seeing it for the first time: “I just loved its energy and the music,” she says.

“I love the way that they get just the right level of audience participation – it keeps everyone involved.”

And she acknowledges that her books being adapted for the stage brings new audiences to her work.

“It’s a win-win situation for all of us,” she says. “The fact that the book is already popular encourages people to go and see it, and a lot of the children who go do so because they know the book. But I think it is different when you have a school group go and see it, as not all of those children will have read it. And so it brings new children to the story.”

Julia saw her first book, A Squash and a Squeeze, published when she was in her mid-40s and has been a prolific writer since, publishing well over 100 books as well as plays, songs, musicals and poems. While all families will have their firm favourites, other bestsellers have included Zog, The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child.

An avid reader as a child, Julia knew from a very young age that she wanted to tell stories – and share them with other people. As a children’s author who has also written for teenagers, Julia knows the value of fiction to young people.

“These days a lot of schools are doing projects on particular books, and very often they are my VERY FISHY But lots of fun

books. Every month I get about 30 schools sending me bundles of letters from about 30 to 60 children who are doing a project on one of my books.

“For me, the greatest pleasure comes from reading a book and all that the imagination can bring to that experience. I don’t see books and television and theatre as competing with each other. What matters is that children have the opportunity to experience that pleasure of reading a book.

“And the whole experience of theatre is also something magical – especially for children who have not been to the theatre before.

“I went to the theatre to see Where the Rainbow Ends as a child, and that is something I still remember. That memory and that experience of theatre will stay with them for ever.”

Julia was the Children’s Laureate from 20112013, and continues to be a passionate advocate for children’s fiction and theatre.

“I do a lot of events and book signings, and while some of the people will say they have read my books, sometimes it is someone who knows the story because they have seen it in the theatre. Either way, they have responded to it and remembered it.”

Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales is at the EM Forster Theatre on Tuesday July 24 and Wednesday July 25 at 11am and 2pm. Tickets cost £12 per adult and £10 per child. For more information, call 01732 304241 or visit www.emftheatre.com

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Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

going ut Seven days of activities at a glance

By Eileen Leahy

Additional entries by Jac Lewis

TAPPING INTO THE TAPESTRY Hear how Ightham Mote cares for its precious textiles

Little Edie, a mother and daughter living in a derelict Hamptons mansion. Featuring Andy Warhol and the socialite sister of Jackie Onassis, Lee Radziwill, it’s a fascinating insight into a lost period in cultural history. The film starts at 8pm tonight at Trinity Theatre and standard tickets cost £11. See www.trinitytheatre.net Over at Ightham Mote there will be a series of talks today by the specialist conservation team explaining how they care for the textiles on display at the National Trust property. There will also be a Q&A session post each talk and there’s no need to book. Drop in to the Squire’s Room between 11am and 4pm. See www.nationaltrust.org.uk

THURSDAY If your little ones are already on holiday, you’ll be pleased to hear that the popular Maize Maze at Penshurst Place runs throughout the summer.

Open from 11am until 6pm (last entry is at 5pm), its theme this year is time travel, so the maze has been designed to resemble a clock face. There’s also an optional new shorter route to explore…

Find out more at www.penshurstplace.com Jazz on The Pantiles is still in full swing.

To make it a really special event, why not avail yourself of One Warwick Park

WEDNESDAY The latest exhibition on display at Trinity Theatre’s gallery is entitled From the Kitchen Table, so named as the husband and wife team – Maria and David Strappini – whose work is featured have never had a studio to work from and do everything from the hub of their home.

Commenting on the ethos of the exhibition, they say: “We sit individually or at the same time across the table from each other painting, drawing or just smudging pastel on paper. These works are the journeys we take and the work we create, on, around and under our small kitchen.”

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s interpretation of William Shakespeare’s classic play Romeo and Juliet is being screened tonight at the Odeon Cinema at 7pm, and tomorrow night at Trinity Theatre at 7pm. Erica Whyman directs, while Karen Fishwick plays Juliet and Bally Gill is Romeo. Set in the 21st century, it features the story of the star-cross’d lovers set against a backdrop of violence and bitter divisions. Odeon tickets from £18 at www.odeon.co.uk – for Trinity prices see www.trinitytheatre.net That Summer is a documentary by Goran Hugo Olsson which follows the story of Big Edie and

Hotel’s Bubbles and Burger deal, which costs just £10 per person? For more details, see www. onewarwickpark.co.uk

FRIDAY

A little further afield, there will be a writing retreat this weekend at Aylesford Priory. It’s entitled ‘Look Inside’, and the organisers say it’s ‘a relaxed weekend for those seeking creative inspiration, peace and good companionship’.

The event – led by Charlie Bell – is now in its 17th year, and suits writers of all backgrounds and writing experience. For full details, visit www.lisabeaumontmarketing.co.uk There will be another of Trinity’s popular Comedy Café events on this evening. Doors open from 7pm, with stand-ups taking to the stage at 8pm. For confirmation of those performing, please check 72 hours beforehand.

The Mark Cross Beer Festival kicks off today and is on until Sunday, celebrating all that’s good about British beer and traditional pub culture.

Entrance is free. See www.themarkcrossinn.co.uk The Luna Open Air Cinema is once again up and running for the summer months at Tonbridge Castle. Tonight they are showing Ridley Scott’s historical epic Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe. Gates open at 7.45pm and the film starts at 9pm.

Tickets cost £15 per person. See www. thelunacinema.com

SATURDAY

OUT FOR A SPIN HG Wells’s The Time Machine gets the musical treatment

There will be another RNLI coffee morning and sale this morning from 10.30am until noon at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells. RNLI souvenirs, gifts, bric-abrac, books and toys will be for sale.

The popular Pantiles Market is on all weekend, so head on down to stock up on your gourmet goodies and interesting buys for the home.

Hever Festival Theatre is hosting a summer celebration of all things British, and tonight you can see Laurence Owen and Lindsay Sharman performing a much-praised musical adaptation

Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

of HG Wells’s 1895 book The Time Machine. The novel was a breakthrough piece when it was published, being the first modern portrayal of time travel, and it is well worth a watch if you can swing by. Tickets are £20. See www.hevercastle.co.uk Tonight, Pretty Woman is being shown at the Luna Open Air Cinema at Tonbridge Castle. If you want to go and see this celluloid classic starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, then gates open at 7.45pm and tickets cost £15 per person.

A BIRD IN THE HAND… Falcons fly into Penshurst

TUESDAY

SUNDAY

The Friends of Dunorlan Park Summer Picnic is on today from 1pm. All are welcome to attend, just bring your own picnic and games.

The beautiful gardens at Penshurst Place is the setting for a spectacular falconry show today.

The Hawking Centre will be showing how their birds hone in on their prey and interact with each other. The gardens will also offer pantomimes and popular children’s arts and crafts for families to enjoy. Group tickets to the gardens start at £22.50. See www.penshurstplace.com Ian McEwan’s novella On Chesil Beach has been made into a delightful film and is being shown at Trinity Theatre at 8pm. There will also be three screenings on Tuesday at 11am, 2pm and 8pm.

steep inclines, pushchairs and wheelchairs are not suitable. To book call: 01732 810378.

The free photographic exhibition entitled Remarkable Characters of Tunbridge Wells is still ongoing at Woods on The Pantiles until September. It is the brainchild of photographer Mark Wilkinson and writer Anne Wagstaff, who have a ‘curiosity about people and what makes them tick’. There are 40 portraits in total.

It tells the sensitive story of newlyweds who are preoccupied – and terrified – by the upcoming consummation of their marriage. Will their feelings threaten to ruin their relationship? The film stars Saoirse Ronan and Billy Howle as Florence and Edward. Tickets start at £10. www.trinitytheatre.net

MONDAY

Ightham Mote is hosting a guided walk around its estate and gardens from 10.30am until 12.30pm, which will include an interesting history of the property. Dress suitably for the weather. Due to

SEA CHANGE On Chesil Beach is showing at Trinity

The Assembly Hall is hosting the internationally acclaimed Irish Step Dance show Rhythm of the Dance at 7.30pm. It celebrates the Irish culture through the mediums of music and dance, featuring world champion performers and Irish singers and musicians. The show has been wowing audiences since 1999, and will amaze you, too. Tickets start at £22 for children and £24 for adults. See www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk The EM Forster Theatre welcomes the stage version of Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales by favourite children’s author Julia Donaldson. On today and tomorrow at 11am and 2pm, this fun live show is bound to be a hit with all the family.

Tickets cost £12 per adult and £10 per child.

To book, call 01732 304241, or visit www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk See our feature on the show on page 51.

ENJOY THE RHYTHM OF THE DANCE At The Assembly Hall

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PICK OF THE WEEK: Military Vintage Festival At The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood July 24-29

A five-day military vintage festival is being held at The Hop Farm from Tuesday until Sunday to showcase the fascinating history of the British armed forces.

Military vehicles and battle re-enactments will keep you entertained, as will the live music that will also be on offer.

For information on how to book tickets, call 01258 858448 or 01258 857700, or go to www.warandpeacerevival.com

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Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles Doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites www.pdag.co.uk & www.thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday The Pioneers, Matt Falloon, Hey Zeus Friday Soul Kitchen Saturday Closed for private party Sunday Danny Bridle, Katy Virgoe, Leanie Kaliedo, Jono Harrison Tuesday Infrared, Saiichi Sugiyama

live music With Paul Dunton

W

E MAY be heading towards late July, but the local music scene shows no signs of slowing down for the summer. My recommendations this week include popular local acts The Pioneers, Matt Falloon and headliners Hey Zeus performing at The Grey Lady tonight [Wednesday].

Also tonight, the talented Mike Wilton (of The Standard Lamps) is at The Sussex Arms Basement.

And on Thursday, the renowned Vince Dunn Orchestra headline Jazz on The Pantiles.

My top pick for Friday night is the Metallica Reloaded show at The Forum – considered one of the world’s leading Metallica tribute acts.

The must-read guide to what’s on musically for the week ahead… www.paulduntonandguests.com

On Saturday night you can catch The Nigel Bagge Band at The Beau Nash Tavern and The Cockroaches at The Royal Oak pub.

Close out the weekend in style with some local acoustic music at The Grey Lady on Sunday night with local singer/songwriter Jono Harrison, who will be supported by Katy Virgoe, Leanie Kaleido and Danny Bridle.

On Tuesday night, the excellent Ron Trueman-Border & The Strangers will be at The Punch & Judy in Tonbridge, and look out for local band Infrared who will be headlining at The Grey Lady, supported by virtuoso guitarist and singer Saiichi Sugiyama.

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM The Common Event information and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk Wednesday HMLTD, Sorry Friday Metallica Reloaded Saturday Boogie Nights: A History of House Sunday Sunday Sessions (1pm start)

THE SUSSEX ARMS (BASEMENT)

Jono Harrison

Sussex Mews Music from 8.30pm All event details and tickets available at www.twforum.co.uk Wednesday Mike Wilton (full band) Monday Sun Silva

JAZZ ON THE PANTILES The Bandstand, The Pantiles Music from 8pm-10pm Donations welcomed Thursday The Vince Dunn Orchestra

TRINITY THEATRE Church Road All concert information and tickets available at www.trinitytheatre.net Saturday Elio Pace presents: Elvis Presley

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday The Nigel Bagge Band

THE ROYAL OAK Prospect Road Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday The Cockroaches

THE PUNCH & JUDY

The Vince Dunn Orchestra

11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry Music from 8pm Tuesday Ron Trueman-Border & The Strangers

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Food & Drink

Lemon panna cotta with raspberries and meringue

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Heritage tomato salad with basil and black olives

Rabbit ballotine with carrot, date and tarragon

Smoked and cured salmon with beetroot and horseradish

Pigeon and quail terrine

Hand-dived scallop, ceviche kohirabi and lemon

Peach, honeycomb, clotted cream and almond

On The Menu…

THE CURLEW • Junction Road, Bodiam, East Sussex, TN32 5UY Tel: 01580 861394 • www.thecurlewrestaurant.co.uk

ONE FROM SEVENTEEN Brought to you by Seventeen, One Warwick Park Hotel Every week at Seventeen we offer a changing market menu so guests can enjoy a new dish every time they visit, using only the freshest ingredients. A popular choice is our pan-seared duck breast. Here we share how to make this impressive and delicious dish INGREDIENTS Serves 2 2 duck breasts 500g Maris Piper potatoes, cut into chunks 2 tbsp double cream 20g butter 1 Savoy cabbage 75g pancetta lardons 1 crushed garlic clove 2 sage leaves, roughly chopped 100ml fresh chicken stock For the jus: 4 shallots, chopped 1 crushed garlic clove 40g butter 50ml red wine ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar 50ml chicken stock ½ tsp cornflour (mixed with 2 tsp cold water) 125g blackberries METHOD n To prepare the savoy cabbage, warm oil in a large pan and cook on a medium heat the pancetta lardons, sage and garlic, add the cabbage, chicken stock, 10g butter and stir well.

Cover the pan and cook for around ten minutes until the cabbage is tender. Season with salt and black pepper. n For the creamed mashed potatoes, add water to a

medium-sized saucepan and bring to the boil, add the potatoes and boil until tender.

Drain the potatoes, leave to cool for a few minutes then add the cream and butter. Remove from the heat and mash either by hand or with electric whisk for an extra smooth texture, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. n Score the duck breasts and season with salt, add more to the skin side and less to the flesh side of the breast. Heat a pan on a low-medium heat and place the duck breasts in, skin side down.

Make sure to adjust the temperature to avoid spitting – the breast should gently bubble away. Cook until the breast is

cooked and the skin is golden brown, then turn over to cook the flesh side. Cook to your tasting. n For the jus, melt the butter in a pan and sauté the shallots and garlic slowly for around five minutes. Add the blackberries, wine, stock and balsamic vinegar and simmer. Add the cornflour, if desired, to thicken the jus. n Serve all components together and enjoy with large glass of wine.

Every Saturday at Seventeen you can enjoy our set menu, taken from our weekly changing á la carte menu, including dishes such as this, all for as little as £19 for two courses and £25 for three. To book please call 01892 520 587.

Rhubarb, vanilla gin and fruit scone

We sample a taste of what’s currently being served at Michelin-star restaurant The Curlew

Food & Drink

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Raise a toast

to these wines with a difference When it comes to discovering wines, variety is the spice of life, says Times drinks editor James Viner… vanilla are all in play. The nutty aftertaste completes an impressive picture. Light tannic frame, too. An impeccable match for food since it will simply want to make you eat more, not imbibe more. Pour with roast pork or chicken, Caesar salad, lobster, turbot in a creamy sauce and fish stews. Full of interest for those looking for something very different.

F

ROM Romania to Greece, this week I have scoured the Earth for refreshingly out-ofthe-ordinary pink, white and red wines. I’ve picked four deliciously different bottles which will hopefully inspire you to step out of your drinking comfort zone. Track down any of these off-the-beaten track vinious gems from different appellations and unusual grape varieties if you’re feeling adventurous, or simply stuck in a rut. You’ll soon see there’s lots to explore and discover!

GREEN SPAIN’S ON-TREND LIGHT & FRESH BASQUE SPECIALITY THAT’S DREAMY WITH ATLANTIC SEAFOOD

1. 2017 Gaintza Txakolí, Getariako Txakolina, Spain (11.5%, £12.29-£13.99, Rannoch Scott & Noel Young Wines) Bone dry, light, thirst-quenching and crisp, this lively, CO2 zesty Txakolí (‘Chac-o-lee’) – the traditional wine of Spain’s damp Basque seaboard – is stuffed with green apple, lime, bergamot and white peach flavours. It’s one for fans of Vinho Verde and a very nice option for shellfish, seafood, grilled fish (especially hake), sushi, anchovies, oysters, Idiazábal cheese, Gernika peppers and chargrilled squid. At the pretty, familyowned winery in Getaria, situated some 25km to the west of foodie heaven San Sebastián, you can taste it with housecured Bermeo anchovies. Appetising, svelte, gently spritzy and appealing.

The grapes are 85% hondarribi zuri with a splash of gros manseng and hondarrabi beltza. Topa!

GIMME SOME SKIN! GASTRONOMIC ROMANIAN AMBER/ORANGE WINE

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2. 2016 Sole Orange Chardonnay, Cramele Reca, Timiș Romania (12%, £12.30, Tanners Wines: Same wine at Aldi mid-August, price still to be confirmed) For those uncertain about orange wines, which are made – as with red winemaking – by fermenting the juice of ripe white grapes on their skins, stalks and pips for an extended period of time, this makes an auspicious introduction. Here’s a splendid Romanian rendition that’s direct, complex and delicious, with length to burn; pear, citrus and dried stone fruits, plus a hint of spice and

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MUST-TRY PALATEPROVOKING PREMIUM GREEK ROSÉ

3. 2017 Avantis Estate Falcon’s Hill Rosé, Evia, Central Greece (13%, £15, Amathus Drinks) Greece is a haven of hidden gems for fine-wine lovers.

With a renewed emphasis on indigenous varieties, the quality of its wine has never been better. This is a beautifully crafted bottle from an on-song boutique winery on the huge island of Evia/ Euboea. There’s great quality and real interest here as this is the only vineyard in the world planted to mavrokoudoura, a clone of the tannic mandilaria that’s usually blended with the softer kotsifali. With its bold raspberry, pink grapefruit and strawberry palate, as well as bright balancing acidity, this is splendid stuff. Chill it for salade niçoise, Greek salads, smoked salmon, grilled sardines, sushi or sashimi. One of the best unfamiliar rosés around.

LIGHT & FRAGRANT ORGANIC

RED FROM CENTRAL GREECE

4. 2015 Domaine Zafeirakis Limniona, Tyrnavos, Thessalía, Central Greece (13%, £19.50, Roberson Wine & Excel Wines) The indigenous late-ripening, thickskinned black grape limniona was lately saved from virtual extermination by Christos Zafirakis in Tyrnavos, in the foothills of Mount Olympus in the east of central mainland Greece. This is a spicy, rare (only five or so producers vinify this grape) and medium-bodied varietal version made in large oak casks from vines planted in 2005 at around 250m above sea level. The cornucopia of mulberry, rose petal, redcurrant and cherry flavours flow in a juicy stream, oak and tannins pushed into the background. There’s a soupçon of hedonism to this; a spirit of seduction. It’s light but it’s also so magnificently assured and charming with undoubted appeal for pinot noir lovers. Try it very lightly chilled with moussaka, red meat dishes and kebabs.

Yamas Christos – bravo!

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Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

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Advertorial

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Where everybody knows your name

It’s been just over a year since Chris Cozens, one half of Silverlake Leisure, took over The George & Dragon in Speldhurst. Now he catches up with Hannah Patterson to reflect on how he turned this village pub around…

BY GEORGE! Chris Cozens has made the pub a community hub

W

e’re often told to stop fixating on the past – you can’t change it, after all. Sure, obsessively analysing every decision you’ve ever made probably won’t set you on a one-way road to sanity, but the past demands a healthy dose of reflection, particularly when you want to continue moving forward.

It’s with this in mind that I head out of Tunbridge Wells to the village of Speldhurst.

It was July 2017 when I first set foot in The George & Dragon to meet local businessman Chris Cozens.

He lays claim to a successful hostelry in Cambridge and, at the time, hadn’t ventured back to west Kent, where he was born and raised. But when he read that the pub where he’d tasted his first tipple was on the market – in the Times of Tunbridge Wells, no less – it was hard to say no, and he took over on May 15, 2017.

Although his family is now based in Tunbridge Wells, Chris grew up in Speldhurst and has fond memories of the place. He remembers the pub being the very heart of the community, and regularly spent evenings there with the family.

Last year, he told me that one of his hopes for the business was to restore the original values of a traditional pub – somewhere that the locals could think of as a second home.

So, 12 months on, does he feel like he’s accomplished his goal?

“Absolutely,” he says. “We have visitors

coming from as close as next door to miles away.

“Working towards establishing it as a community hub has certainly had an effect.”

The George & Dragon is now the official sponsor of the Speldhurst Cricket Club, something Chris is very proud of and enjoys.

“It’s a lot of fun,” he laughs. “We host a preand post-season session for the cricket team here at the pub, and the man of the match is always celebrated.

“That’s what people want from their village pub. They’re not after a posh restaurant – they want a place that feels part of the community.

It’s a spot where neighbours can socialise, and the staff know who you are.”

Advertorial

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

This uncompromising vision of ‘the local pub’ is undoubtedly one of the biggest contributing factors to The George & Dragon’s success.

It’s also reflected in the advice that Chris would offer to those looking to be successful in business generally.

“Be bold, be brave, and stick to your vision,” he says. “There’s a balance between listening to people’s views and compromising on what you believe your business should be. Stick to your principles and make smart decisions for the good of your customers. I heartily believe that you can do both at the same time.”

Whether technically true or not, Chris feels that locals have a stake in the business, and with that comes a certain amount of obligation to them. For many small villages, their local pub is the lifeblood of the community.

It’s important that the cricket club treats it as a

second clubhouse, and that the book groups come along in the evenings to meet up.

The layout of the pub lends itself to being a popular gathering space, both for small parties and large functions, and the dining room is let out free of charge during the week to those who wish to utilise it.

But it’s not just instilling itself in the heart of the community that was top of The George & Dragon’s priorities last year.

Chris, along with his head chef at the time, who was brought in to help revamp the menu in the early days, was keen to establish the local as a go-to destination for a quality offering that was reflective of fine dining.

Although this was the plan at the beginning, like any good hostelry, the menu has evolved over the past year, not just in content, but in goals, as Chris notes.

“This comes back again to listening to our customers. Looking back, the menu was perhaps a little too exclusive, and I was worried about isolating those who wanted to eat here.”

The result? Their offering is now more accessible, and themed deals have been introduced throughout the week.

One such offer is Fizz Fridays, with discounts on bottles or Prosecco – always popularto celebrate the end of the working week.

Chris explains: “We’ve been gradually building

up the food trade. After a year of accounts, figures are up and it’s encouraging.”

The dishes available continue to be seasonal, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, but perhaps they were the wrong sorts of meals for when the summer months kicked in?

“Personally, I don’t crave a meaty or gamey dishes in this weather, and we were in danger of producing the same sort of food throughout the year,” he reflects. “In the heat, I want fresh fish, light dishes and salads, and a lot of our customers have said the same.”

Diners at The George & Dragon can now expect to see at least two salads on the menu, with the current options being a feta, grapefruit and pine nut salad and quinoa, served with roasted Mediterranean vegetables. Both options are priced at £12.50. There’s also plenty of fish, with shell-on prawns, cod, mackerel, haddock and hake all making an appearance (prices from £6).

If the revamped menu, surroundings and welcoming service weren’t reason enough to rock up at the pub over the summer, there are also events.

To celebrate its first anniversary, the pub hosted a huge birthday bash starring The Swinging Little Big Band, which was a huge success. The place was packed, so much so that it’s throwing another soirée – its first beer festival.

Over August Bank Holiday weekend, partygoers

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can expect to taste a variety of beers that are exclusively produced locally, complete with live music and good vibes.

“We aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel here,” insists Chris. “We just want to give the people what they want.”

I’m not much of a beer drinker myself, but I’ll certainly be there to celebrate how far the pub has come over the past year under the new leadership. Bottom’s up!

THE GEORGE & DRAGON 3 Speldhurst Hill, Speldhurst, NrTunbridge Wells TN3 0NN 01892 863125 www.speldhurst.com

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Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE With the long holidays upon us, finding ways to keep the kids entertained for the next six weeks can sometimes be a struggle. So we’ve comprised a list of the best local places to keep your children busy and inspired right up until September‌

Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

TONBRIDGE RIVER TRIPS Summer and “messing about in boats” – a traditional British pastime now available in Tonbridge every day during the school holidays (weather permitting).

Enjoy the rowing boats for hire and a guided boat trip at the Big Bridge by the castle.

Scheduled trips and exclusive trips can be pre booked online, special trips can be booked via email, and could include birthday experiences, sunset trips or a lock experience.

Pick-up and drop off available at Haysden Country Park.

Dogs are welcome on trips and in rowing boats for free.

07881 863837 www.tonbridgerivertrips.co.uk

RECRE8 HOLIDAY COURSES AT TONBRIDGE SCHOOL, TONBRIDGE If you want to keep your children active and entertained during the holidays, Recre8 have the perfect activity, whatever they enjoy!

Using the top-class facilities at Tonbridge School, courses range from archery, climbing, gymnastics and trampolining to art, breakdancing, cake decorating and musical theatre. There is also a range of 11+ mock examinations and revision courses, so if your child is taking the 11+ assessment in September, Recre8 can also help them achieve their academic potential!

01732 304123 recre8@tonbrige-school.org

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BEWL WATER, LAMBERHURST

SPA VALLEY, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Bewl Water is home to the largest stretch of open water in the South East of England, hosting a range of activities both on and off the water!

Activities include laser challenge, mini golf, sailing, fishing, pedalo hire, and walks around the reservoir and boat trips across the water on the Bewl Belle – there is something for the whole family! Whether you fancy a leisurely walk and picnic around the 800 acres of scenic landscape or a day filled with adrenaline and excitement then Bewl Water is the destination for you.

Embrace the sunny outdoor days and warm evenings at Bewl Water this summer!

01892 890000 www.bewlwater.co.uk

Why not visit the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells and enjoy a fun day out on this delightful heritage railway.

Tunbridge Wells West Station is just a short walk from the famous Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells or there is a car park at Eridge Station.

Families can travel for just £1 on Thursdays in July with additional Tuesday & Wednesday in late July and throughout August. With children travelling for a quid it means a whole family (2A + 2C) can enjoy the day out in the High Weald for just £26.

When travelling on the Spa Valley Railway passengers can choose to explore the High Weald by alighting at any of the stations en route.

01892 537715 www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk

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Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

RAZZAMATAZ THEATRE SCHOOLS, TONBRIDGE WIN A FREE PLACE Come and join Razzamataz Tonbridge at their Summer Stage School “West End Wonders”, for a fun packed 4 days of learning songs, dance routines and drama scenes from current West End musicals.

There will be a presentation on stage on the final afternoon for all family and friends.

Running from August 7th-10th, there is 50% sibling discount and your chance to WIN A FREE PLACE. Call now for more information.

BOOK TODAY PLACES GOING FAST 07401 801318 tonbridge@razzamataz.co.uk

HOSPICE IN THE WEALD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Get active with Hospice in the Weald!

Their 10K run on 23rd September is a fun day out for the whole family – and now is the perfect time to start training.

Or for a cycling challenge, Wheels around the Weald will take place in October, with up to 500 cyclists raising almost £30,000 at this event last year as they covered one of the 20, 40 or 80 mile routes through the Sussex and Kent countryside.

01892 820 533 Kathryn.cracknell@ hospiceintheweald.org.uk

GO APE, BEDGEBURY

DRUSILLAS PARK, EAST SUSSEX

Calling all adventure seekers! Explore the outdoors and go ape at Bedgebury.

Go Ape are encouraging everyone to live life more adventurously by swinging through the tree-tops amidst some of the country’s most stunning scenery this summer.

With high speed 170m zip wires, free-fall Tarzan swings and daring crossings, Go Ape offers the ultimate challenge and the perfect opportunity to grab your Tribe and head outdoors for a spot of summer sun up in the Tree Tops.

At Go Ape Bedgebury there really is an Adventure for everyone, why not challenge your Tribe this summer?

0845 094 9174 www.goape.co.uk/days-out

Add some picture perfect moments to your 2018 scrapbook with a trip to Drusillas Park!

Enjoy all the amazing animals, attractions and events on offer!

This summer Drusillas is bursting with popular children’s characters! Meet Paw Patrol, Peppa Pig, The PJ Masks and more!

Brace yourselves because the fun doesn’t end there! Get ready to go wild with Go Safari! and make the most of the sunshine with Get Wet! Don’t forget to explore the beautiful Hello Kitty Secret Garden as well.

Plus there’s heaps of adventure play and amazing rides! Drusillas is located just off the A27 at Alfriston. www.drusillas.co.uk

Going Out

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

All the fun at Hever Castle

HEVER CASTLE, EDENBRIDGE

ALSO AT HEVER CASTLE...

Young visitors to Hever Castle are being invited to use their imagination and explore the new natural play area.

Acorn Dell includes a two metre high living willow structure, a giant sandpit, a mound with three tunnels to clamber in and a climbing frame.

Located in the trees are two lookout platforms linked by a clatter bridge and with a slide for making a quick escape.

The new playground is aimed at those under seven and was opened earlier this month by former JLS star and presenter of CBeebies’ Down on the Farm, JB Gill.

Entry to Acorn Dell is included in the admission price to Hever Castle.

01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

Throughout the summer holidays kids can experience what it was like to grow up and serve in a royal household in medieval times.

Suitable for children ages 6-12 approximately, classes include lots of hands-on activities to keep them entertained. Classes last for around 40 minutes and take place daily.

Children can learn how to prepare and protect armour, discover the best way to arm and disarm their master before battle, find out the correct way to give a proper and perfect greeting and take part in a have a go Hobby Horse Jousting activity.

01732 865224 www.hevercastle.co.uk

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ORCHARD THEATRE, DARTFORD This summer holiday travel to the Merry Old Land Of Oz with the Orchard Theatre.

Dorothy thinks she is lost forever when a terrifying tornado crashes through Kansas and whisks her and her dog, Toto, far away to the magical Land of Oz To get home Dorothy must follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City and find the wonderfully mysterious Wizard of Oz. Together with her companions the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion whom she meets on the way, Dorothy embarks on a strange and enchanting adventure.

Brought to you by a 130-strong community cast and live band, this year’s summer youth project production will be so out of this world you’ll know you’re not in Kansas anymore.

Performances run from Thursday 16th-Saturday 18th August. Book now online or via phone.

01322 220000 www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

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Advertorial

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

travel

64

TAKE A SEAT FOR THE SUNSET On Table Mountain

See more of South Africa

Adventure, sport, nature and wildlife – if you went all the way to the land of Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson, you wouldn’t want to waste a minute…

C

OVERING an area five times the size of the UK, South Africa packs plenty between its borders. Landscapes vary from jagged mountains and vine-striped hills to cliff-backed beaches. National parks and private reserves teem with wildlife (including every one of the Big Five – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino). And cities line up everything from world-class museums to pop-up bars and boutiques.

Titan Travel’s tours help you make the most of this diverse nation, whisking you from wildlife-filled reserves to coastal communities to cosmopolitan cities – all in the company of an expert tour manager.

THE WILDLIFE When it comes to wildlife, there’s a lengthy cast of characters in South Africa. The Big Five roam through the bush, particularly in Kruger, the country’s most famous national park.

You can also witness giraffes grazing on grasslands, birds flitting across wetlands, hippos wallowing in watering holes, and herds

of springbok jumping across the plains. The action doesn’t stop when you reach the coast, either – whales, dolphins and even penguins can all be spotted off these shores.

THE CITIES Cape Town is the jewel in South Africa’s crown.

Art galleries, boutiques, cocktail bars, museums, restaurants and more sit against the city’s iconic backdrop, Table Mountain.

Nearby, you’ll find a raft of beaches, including Boulders Beach, where African penguins waddle up on to the sand.

It’s not the only city worth seeing, though. Port Elizabeth is a lovely coastal city offering easy access to national parks and wildlife reserves; Pretoria is steeped in pioneer history; and Durban offers a surprising blend of African and Indian influence.

THE CUISINE The dining scene in South Africa is fairly global, and ranges from laid-back braais (barbecues) to haute cuisine served in fine-

TRUNK ROAD An African elephant provides a thrilling delay for those on Safari in Kruger National Park

Advertorial

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

dining restaurants. Then there’s the wine – South Africa is famous for its crisp sauvignon blancs and dry chenin blancs. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are two of the best wine-growing regions.

Franschhoek’s hop-on hop-off tram links wineries, so it’s easy to spend an afternoon enjoying tours and tastings.

THE SCENERY South Africa’s scenery varies wildly from place to place, so travelling around by road or rail is the best way to appreciate it fully.

You could road trip along the spectacular Garden Route with its sandy beaches, lagoons and lush greenery; travel along hairpin roads

through the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains; or perhaps journey across winelands and grasslands on board Rovos Rail’s luxurious Pride of Africa train.

THE HISTORY The ‘rainbow nation’ has a fascinating history to uncover, too. You can peek inside Nelson Mandela’s cell at Robben Island, chat with locals about Zulu heritage and traditions, and pay respects at the battlefields of the Anglo-Boer and Anglo-Zulu wars.

If the latter interests you, Titan Travel offer a fantastic small-group tour dedicated to the battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, with poignant guided tours by expert historians.

A WADDLE AND A WAVE Boulders Penguin Colony National Park

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What to pack: 10 essential items for a South African safari holiday SOFT BACKPACK This can be taken as hand luggage or packed into your suitcase, and will come in handy on game drives. It’s perfect for carrying essentials, as well as a plentiful supply of bottled water.

SUITABLE SUITCASE Hard-shell suitcases do a wonderful job of protecting your belongings, but they can be bulky and heavy. Consider instead strong but soft bags which are more easily packed away.

READING DEVICE With flights of up to 12 hours and precious luggage room, the ability to transport an entire library of books in a single device can be a godsend. Remember the charger and adapter, too.

NOTEBOOK & PEN There’s so much information to be gained from your safari guide, you might want to record it for when you begin to collate your memories once home.

BINOCULARS Important for searching for animals in the bush or viewing birds high in the sky.

INSECT REPELLENT The pay-off for enjoying sightings of large and exotic animals is that you may end up attracting the attentions of smaller, more irritating creatures.

Mosquitoes and other buzzing pests can be dissuaded from feasting on you by a strong DEET-based insect repellent.

SUN HAT & SUN LOTION Though game drives are often timed for early morning and late afternoon to escape the strongest sun and worst of the heat, it’s still easy to get sunburnt. A light-coloured sun hat and an SPF sun cream appropriate to your skin type should offer the protection you need.

SUNGLASSES For the same reason, sunglasses with a significant UV protective coating are a safari must.

LIGHTWEIGHT CLOTHING Lightweight, good-quality clothes allow for the most productive use of your luggage allowance. Be prepared with lightweight waterproofs and layered clothes, particularly for night and dawn drives when it can get surprisingly chilly.

Camouflage-type light tans, browns and khaki reflect rather than absorb heat and do not scare the animals – particularly important on walking safaris, where good-quality walking boots are also a must.

HIGH-QUALITY DIGITAL CAMERA Perfect for capturing those precious moments – try and find one with a decent zoom for the best photos.

IT’S IN THE BAG Make sure you take appropriate shoes, too!

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Recruitment

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Look out for your puzzle answers for the 11th’s edition in next week’s paper!

Motoring

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Motoring News

A look at what’s happening in and around the world of motoring

Can Mean Mower V2 cut it in bid to reclaim high-speed record?

The Corsa GSi is back – and ready to order now VAUXHALL has announced prices and specs for the latest member of its Corsa family – the Corsa GSi. Reviving a nameplate that’s been out of action for decades, the new car stops just short of being a fullblown hot hatchback but still aims to provide driving thrills.

Riding on the same chassis as the hardcore Corsa VXR, it carries a smaller 1.4-litre engine with 148bhp, which can accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 129mph.

The GSi is available to order now, with first deliveries arriving in September. It’s priced from £18,995 – this nets you the standard spec, including 17-inch dual-tone alloy

wheels, a GSi-specific rear spoiler, front grille and bumpers, dark tinted rear windows, carbon-effect mirrors, and LED daytime running lights.

Inside, customers benefit from sports seats, a leather steering wheel with a flat bottom and an IntelliLink 4.0 infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

For those after a bit of extra, there’s the GSi Plus Pack. This upgrades the wheels to 18 inches, adds leather Recaro seats and bixenon headlights for an additional £1,900.

The Corsa has some strong rivals at this price point – chief among them are the Suzuki Swift Sport, and the brilliant Fiesta ST.

CUTTING your grass at more than 150mph may sound like a pipe dream – and perhaps a bit impractical – but Honda could make it possible.

Their Mean Mower V2 is a lawnmower let entirely off the hooks. Developed in conjunction with motorsport firm and Honda British Touring Car Championship partner Team Dynamics, this grass-cutter boasts features you’d regularly associate with performance motoring.

Based – admittedly very vaguely – on Honda’s HF 2622, it’s powered by a 999cc Fireblade motorbike engine and produces ‘in excess of’ 190bhp.

As the V2 moniker suggests, this

isn’t the first Mean Mower. The original was revealed in 2013 and achieved an at-the-time record top speed of 116.575mph – since surpassed by Norwegian tuning firm Viking, which managed 134mph.

Dave Hodgetts, MD of Honda UK, says: “We’re in the testing phase now and everything is looking good, with a top speed of more than 150mph very much in our sights.”

Piloting the V2 will be Jess Hawkins, a 23-year-old go-kart racer who is currently starring as a stunt driver in the touring show Fast & Furious Live.

It certainly brings a whole new meaning to the term ‘cutting edge’.

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Nissan admits to falsifying emissions data in Japan NISSAN has admitted to falsifying emissions data on cars made in Japan, but insists that all vehicles – bar the GT-R – fully comply with safety regulations in its homeland.

The firm did not confirm which cars, or how many, were affected by the voluntary investigation. It also claims that all fuel economy figures claimed are accurate following reverification of its data as part of the investigation carried out by Japanese law firm Nishimura and Asahi.

The majority of Nissan’s cars sold in the UK are made elsewhere – with the Leaf and Qashqai made in Sunderland – it’s unlikely that any cars making their way to Britain, except possibly for the 370Z and GT-R, will be involved in this.

These inaccuracies were discovered as part of ongoing compliance checks at Nissan’s domestic plants, after ‘nonconformities in the final vehicle inspection process’ were discovered in September 2017.

The issues were found in emissions and safety tests, which are necessary for cars in Nissan’s home country under the Japanese Emissions Standards. To be compliant on the roads, every car is given a certificate.

In a statement, the firm said: “This issue came to light during the course of voluntary checks conducted by Nissan. As a companywide exercise, Nissan will continue to carry out comprehensive checks of frameworks, organizations and processes related to regulatory compliance.

“Strict adherence to compliance is a top priority… and if issues are discovered, appropriate measures will be taken. Nissan is committed to promoting and enforcing compliance and awareness thereof in all operational areas.”

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Sport

Please send sports stories to: newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk

Love 50: Rosemary serves up half a century of dedication

Australian Evonne Goolagong, later Crawley.

After meeting husband Stephen at Frinton Tennis Week she spent two years in Saudi Arabia, coaching and twice winning the Eastern Province Championship.

Back in England, tennis took a back seat as she started a family but she was soon back at the Nevill Club in Tunbridge Wells before switching to St John’s Tennis Club 20 years ago.

Bob ‘The Cat’ Bevan pays tribute to a remarkable career in tennis coaching at the St John’s Club TENNIS: “I’VE just always wanted people to love

Giving back

Malaga, Spain. Her male counterpart that year was John Feaver, who went on to play in the Davis Cup. Sadly a slipped disc put her out of action for a year but despite the setback she was good enough to enter the Wimbledon qualifying tournaments on three occasions.

Rosemary was ranked ninth in the UK at under21 level and represented England in a full international against Wales.

She was ranked second behind Virginia Wade in Kent and often played with her. Rosemary recalls: “She tried to take every shot if she could and, of course, we were both left-side players so you can imagine who had to play on the right.”

She also featured in many pre-Wimbledon tournaments, once playing against the legendary

playing tennis,” says Rosemary Snook, whose feeling for coaching is as strong today as it was when she first took four little girls under her wing 50 years ago.

Growing up in her parents’ pub, the Rose and Crown in Tunbridge Wells, Rosemary was 11 years old before she first picked up a racket.

“My parents didn’t have much time but a lady called Audrey Stapleton was coaching in the local recreation ground and my love affair started from day one,” she reveals. She carried on coaching until she was 93!”

By the time she was 17 Rosemary was the national schools champion, an accolade which saw her win two weeks coaching with Lew Hoad in

HIGH COURT: Rosemary Snook was a regular partner for Wimbledon champion Virginia Wade

Angels Ladies keep their cool in shoot-outs

By Kieran Fitzpatrick

PHOTO: Katie Wilde

FOOTBALL: AFTER their glory-strewn season in

SPOT ON: (L-R) Becky Janes, Becky Mackley, Poppy Gilden, Kelly Moran, Helena Fothergill, Rosie Hague, Sara Walker celebrate their first success in a tournament at Bexhill rebounded pinball-fashion into the net.

However it was to be the Angels’ day with Janes backheeling a short corner by Mackley past the goalkeeper to win the match 2-1.

The team were expertly marshalled in defence

by Poppy Gilden, who has finally returned to action following an 18-month lay-off after she underwent a double knee operation.

so penalties loomed again. In a repeat of the previous round, Moran saved twice with Mackley, Hague, Janes and Fothergill converting to win 4-2.

In the final against Eastbourne Town, Tonbridge took an early lead through a well-worked team goal finished calmly by Walker.

Eastbourne levelled fortuitously when Moran’s clearance was closed down by a forward and

New striker Read finds target against Gills FOOTBALL: THE scoreline suggests a difficult pre-season friendly for the Angels but the effort and movement gave their professional opponents plenty to think about.

Just one goal down at half-time against a team that might form Gillingham’s starting XI in League One was indicative of how well the hosts kept their concentration under a blazing sun.

After six minutes Angels captain Tom Parkinson delivered a crossfield pass to Joe Turner, who showed fine control and shot just over the bar.

The visitors went 1-0 up after 18 minutes when a cleverly weighted ball over the top put Brandon Hanlan through and he slid his shot past Angels keeper Jonny Henly.

Four minutes before half-time a period of Angels pressure saw new centre-back Arthur Lee turn in the area and fire off a shot, only to see the ball rebound off the post.

A minute later, the Gills keeper Tomas Holy had to come out of his area to deal with an awkward high ball but was put off by another

GOOD SIGN Alex Read (right) battles for the ball

PHOTO: David Couldridge

Tonbridge Angels 1 Gillingham 5

By James Rowe

Those four little girls, 50 years ago, paid just 25 pence for a lesson. “That quid was very handy for me at the time,” said Rosemary.

In a local newspaper report some 45 years ago she is quoted as saying that when playing became less important she wanted to start coaching to give something back to the game.

Then in her early 20s, she added: “By the age of 30 most players are past their best so it is important that I train hard and play to win.”

Still very fit at the age of 67, she can celebrate half a century of giving back to the game she loves as much today as she did when she was 11.

Might she aim for Mrs Stapleton’s record and still be coaching at 93? Don’t bet against it.

Trio show Ironman credentials amid the heat of battle

By Dan Couldridge which they won the cup and came second in the league, Tonbridge Angels Ladies won the inaugural Bexhill United Ladies Tournament.

Seventeen teams took part and the Angels won a highly competitive group with 10 points from their five games – which lasted 12 minutes each.

Sara Walker scored the only goal in both the first two games to get her side off to a flying start.

The third match looked to be heading for stalemate until Becky Janes let fly from distance to score off the post in injury time.

A goalless draw was enough to secure top spot and qualification for the latter stages.

A tough quarter-final followed against Ashford and Tonbridge went behind early on. They looked to be facing elimination but Becky Mackley’s injury-time header produced the equaliser.

A penalty shoot-out ensued, and Mackley, Rosie Hague, Janes and Helena Fothergill were all on target. Keeper Kelly Moran saved twice to win 4-2.

The semi-final against Wandsworth ended 0-0

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

Angels new boy, striker Alex Read. It seemed the former Harlow Town player had an open goal to aim at but a couple of defenders got back just in time to clear their lines.

On the stroke of half-time triallist Adem

Ramadan cut inside from the right flank and forced a smart save from Holy.

Gillingham made a strong start to the second half and on 52 minutes Callum Reilly took his chance well to score the visitors’ second.

The Angels’ heads might have dropped but they produced a period of genuine pressure. A fine pass from Sonny Miles found Turner on the left and his shot produced a good save by Holy.

Gillingham went further ahead on the hourmark with Hanlan claiming his second goal.

In the 71st minute Angels found a consolation when Read squeezed between the two centrebacks and cleverly lobbed Holy.

Further Gillingham goals duly arrived in the 78th and 79th minutes, scored by substitutes Noel Mbo and Frank Moussa.

But the Angels kept trying and in the 83rd minute a fine move ended with a shot from Ramadan forcing another good save out of Holy.

Angels’ assistant manager Barry Moore said: “We were very pleased with our performance this afternoon and I hope people simply don’t judge the squad on the final scoreline because that doesn’t reflect the effort the boys put in. It was great to see Ready get his goal too.”

TRIATHLON: THREE members of Tunbridge Wells Triathlon Club showed impressive stamina despite soaring temperatures at the Ironman UK competition in Lancashire.

Wildfires across the moors had forced a last-minute change to the classic route with the addition of the testing climb up Anglezarke.

The iconic event started with a 2.4-mile swim in Pennington Flash. Stephen Dunkerley impressed with a time of one hour 21 minutes.

Steve Lindsey controlled his effort in the early stages of his debut race over this distance and exited the water comfortably in 1:34.

He then showed his strength on the bike and progressed through the field with a 5:57 split.

Chris Dickinson, also trying his first Ironman, was measured performance from start to finish.

Just minutes separated the club-mates at the start of the four-lap marathon.

Dickinson was first home, crossing the line in 12:55 and recording a respectable 4:46 marathon.

Lindsey completed the run in 5:10 to finish in 13:20 while Dunkerly crossed in 13:50.

Grant Aitken and Eric Perrier were representing Team GB at the ITU Long Distance Triathlon World Championship in Fyn, Denmark.

The prestigious multi-sport event was held over O3 (triple Olympic) distance. Aitken impressed with a 53-minute 4km swim in Odense Harbour.

Perrier was close behind and then excelled on the bike, recording 3:35 for the 120km cycle.

Aitken raced hard all of the way, recording 3:43 for the bike before a well paced 2:20 split for the 30km run. He crossed the line in 7:03, securing 22nd in the competitive M50 Age Group.

Perrier battled a knee injury to record 2:33 for the running section, finishing just eight minutes behind in 7:11, 25th in the same category.

HOT PURSUIT: (L-R) Chris Dickinson, Steve Lindsey and Stephen Dunkerley in Bolton

Sport

Wednesday July 18 | 2018

In-form Davis displays class to give Wells victory in tough test Bexley 171-9 lost to Tunbridge Wells 174-5 by 5 wkts

By Alan Cutts CRICKET: TUNBRIDGE WELLS ended a nine-year

drought against Bexley in the Kent League with a hard-fought five-wicket victory at the Nevill on the club’s Vice-Presidents’ Day. The win coincided with Premier League leaders Blackheath’s second defeat of the campaign, inflicted by Sevenoaks Vine, which allowed Wells to close the gap in second place.

Bexley won the toss and elected to bat but the home bowlers found some early life in the

surface and restricted the top order’s freedom.

So miserly were the pacemen Ari Karvelas, Dave Smith and spinner Marcus O’Riordan that the tally had only reached 78 at the halfway stage of the innings.

The fielding was also keen and incisive with both Karvelas and Will Stickler taking fine catches, the latter also effecting a run-out later on.

O’Riordan was also involved in a crucial run-out, as he touched a fierce drive onto the non-striker’s wicket, thereby ending a busy 30-ball innings of 31 from Matt Stiddard.

All the top six batsmen made a start for Bexley but none of them could go on to register a half-century or stick around to add some acceleration towards the end.

Five wickets tumbled in the last six overs of the innings for the addition of 22 runs with the fiery Karvelas, who picked up 2 for 15 in his 10 overs, proving a real handful.

Brisk The captain, Chris Williams, and O’Riordan (2 for 47) never allowed the middle-order to get away and conceded 43 runs from their last 11 overs as Bexley stumbled to 171 for 9.

The reply began with a characteristically brisk start from Williams, who made 37 from 41 balls with six fours and added 58 with the in-form Christian Davis.

Despite the loss of three wickets for 25 runs to

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leave the game in the balance at 106 for 4, Davis was driving sweetly on both sides of the wicket.

He received strong support from O’Riordan and their tense, 60-run partnership off 95 balls for the fifth wicket edged the hosts to the brink of victory.

They managed to maintain the required tempo, though the play was attritional and the 20 overs sent down by Adam Riley and Jasdev Bassan made them struggle.

Davis proceeded to reach his half-century in pleasing fashion and went on to become the season’s leading Premier League run-scorer.

With only six needed, however, he fell to an excellent caught-and-bowled by Sam Barton for 76 off 132 deliveries with six boundaries.

But O’Riordan saw the hosts home with 32 not out as they reached their target on 174 for 5 with five overs remaining.

Wells now travel to Tenterden Town’s Morghew Park on Saturday [July 21].

Addison stars with bat and ball as sixes leave Catford shattered Cowdrey 242-8 beat Catford Wanderers 186 by 56 runs

By Stuart Clarke CRICKET: TOP-of-the-table Cowdrey earned a vital win at title rivals Catford Wanderers, who are in third place in Kent League Division Four.

The victory was all the more impressive because it was achieved without the services of their Australian run machine Ashley Borella.

The Cowdrey captain Anthony Mills lost the toss once more and the visitors were surprised when they were invited to bat by the Wanderers skipper Ewart Thompson.

After a couple of early wickets fell to Catford’s star player, Shavawn Cunningham (3 for 36), a recovery was started by Ryan Addison and the recalled Jack Southwart.

The pair looked in no trouble as they put on

66 for the third wicket but then opener Southwart was removed for an excellent 50 including seven boundaries.

Addison then proceeded to take apart the spin bowling of Navin Panwar and Dinujan Nesanathan, dispatching them over the pavilion and into the adjourning tennis courts.

Having raced to 75 in quick time the allrounder then holed out on the boundary with his innings including five fours and six sixes.

His departure led to a change of momentum as four wickets fell for the addition of 28 runs.

However, Stuart Clarke (41) worked well with the tail to ensure a defiant total of 242 for 8 was posted.

Imperative With a flat wicket and fast outfield it was imperative that Cunningham was removed early and the dependable Chris Fenwick soon trapped him LBW with a late inswinger.

But Vishaal Patel (41) and BEYOND THE BOUNDARY Man of the match Ryan Addison

Prabu Sathanathan (40) ensured the visitors’ bowling attack were made to toil away and took the total up towards three figures.

The introduction of Addison saw his extra pace remove the dangerous Patel, whereupon the home side produced some calamitous running, both Addison and Nick Farr pulling off run-outs.

Addison then pushed home the advantage to finishing with outstanding figures of 3 for 15 from his seven overs.

Farr (2 for 32) was reintroduced and took two quick wickets, and though the wail wagged he rounded off proceedings with another run-out as Catford closed on 186 in the 42nd over.

With local rivals Tonbridge losing to Rainham, the lead at the top of Kent League Division Four has increased to a substantial 34 points.

With Borella back in the fold, Cowdrey will now travel to face Old Colfeians on Saturday [July 21].