Times of Tunbridge Wells 25th Jul 2018

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

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Businesses urged to back

initiative to boost the town

INSIDE HUB TAKING SHAPE

Plans for £13.2million cultural centre revealed Page 6

A ‘DYNAMIC’ SUCCESS

PHOTO: Lee Smith

New grammar annexe celebrates its first year Page 23

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk NEARLY 700 retailers, restaurateurs and other businesses are to be asked their views on how to make Tunbridge Wells a more attractive place to work and live.

In one of the biggest consultations of its kind to be held in the town, firms are having their say on whether to adopt this national initiative.

It is the next step in a move by the community interest company Royal Tunbridge Wells Together [RTW], to promote the creation of a Business Improvement District [BID] from 2019.

Firms in a town centre area which encompasses Mount Ephraim, The

KING OF THE WALTZ See classical violinist André Rieu perform live Page 58

Pantiles and Camden Road, will be asked for feedback.

Once that happens they will be invited to take part in a ballot on setting up a company to operate the scheme.

Ultimately, they would be asked to enter a five year agreement that would see them decide and direct events, services or schemes that could improve the town centre.

These would be paid for by all firms contributing a levy, likely to be around 1 per cent and 2 per cent of their ratable value. It remains to be seen whether the levy will be capped for certain businesses and if charity shops will be included.

More than 300 towns have established a BID in the UK since the first

was established in Kingston-uponThames 20 years ago.

Kent city Canterbury is one of those, and has used the opportunity to promote its arts and historic events as well

‘I think it will be incredibly positive and will make a good impact on the town centre’ Karen Pengelly as organise a Christmas lights switch on.

All agreements are unique to a town and are driven by businesses, rather than a council. RTW Together, through initial surveys, has identified four areas of priority for the town:

n Improving parking, n Boosting marketing and promotion

for businesses, n Staging events, n Making Tunbridge Wells a ‘great

place to work’.

Now these initial aspects for improvement have been chosen, further consultations now being undertaken with businesses asked to consider practical options.

For example firms are asked to consider if ‘reduced rates for car parking season ticket holders’ could be one option towards solving the parking issue.

Continued on page 4

TOAST THE SUMMER We pick the top sunshine tipples to savour Page 65

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Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Steakhouse CAU becomes latest mid-market restaurant to close TAKING A STAND Liberal Democrat Cllr Ben Chapelard

Lib Dem to run against Tory MP in 2022 election

By William Mata THE Liberal Democrat candidate for the next General Election will be Cllr Ben Chapelard, the Opposition Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

The St James’ ward representative is the first to announce a challenge to incumbent Conservative MP Greg Clark for the constituency in the 2022 vote.

Cllr Chapelard said he would campaign on Tunbridge Wells issues, such as empty shops, potholes and flooding, as well as backing a referendum on a final Brexit deal.

The married father-of-two, who is a French and Spanish teacher at Gravesend Grammar School, was announced as the candidate at a function on Monday [July 23].

Remain “I am excited to be standing because I believe I can get things done as an MP,” he told the Times.

“I am not a career politician and I am only interested in serving Tunbridge Wells.

“As a town we voted Remain but we have an MP who has voted to take us out of the single market.

I will campaign for a people’s vote on a final Brexit deal.”

Tunbridge Wells has been a Conservative safe seat since the constituency was established in 1974.

In the 2015 and 2017 elections Labour finished behind the Tories in the constituency, with the Lib Dems picking up around 8.4 per cent and 9.9 per cent in both votes respectively.

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

16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at Times local newspapers we strive to deliver fair, accurate and balanced reports. When we don’t meet our own high standards we will accept the responsibility and publish clarifications and corrections.

If you would like to make a comment on any aspect of the newspaper, please write to the editor at 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU, or email newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Markerstudy Leisure is a trading name of One Media and Creative UK Limited registered in England and Wales under company number 5398960 with registered office at 45 Westerham Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2QB.

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CAU has become the latest mid-market restaurant to leave Tunbridge Wells, following Jamie’s Italian and Strada.

The Argentine chain’s parent company Gaucho has entered administration, with 540 jobs set to be lost across the UK’s 22 branches.

In the Tunbridge Wells branch, on Mount Pleasant, this will see 19 redundancies.

Joint administrator Matt Smith said: “Unfortunately the CAU brand has struggled in the oversupplied casual dining sector with rapid over-expansion, poor site selection, onerous lease arrangements and a fundamentally poor guest proposition all being factors in its underperformance.

“The Gaucho business on the other hand, which operates in the premium dining market, continues to trade well in its market segment, is profitable and has a strong underlying brand and guest loyalty.”

Crunch Other Tunbridge Wells chain restaurants such as Prezzo and Carluccio’s are still trading, but have seen other branches close around the country.

The Times has previously reported on this trend, dubbed the ‘casual dining crunch’.

Owners have reported a fall in covers during the day, which some have put down to customers having too much choice or overly-similar options.

Tunbridge Wells-based law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore published a survey which showed 67 per cent of restaurant owners who responded

PHOTO: Lee Smith

By Duncan Audsley

OUT OF THE FRYING PAN AND INTO THE LOADING VAN A removal lorry outside CAU in Mount Pleasant Tunbridge Wells thought ‘over-saturation’ was hurting the industry.

Alisa Sweeney, Partner at Thomson Snell & Passmore LLP, said: “It’s a shame to see the removers already in at the Tunbridge Wells branch of Cau, another casualty of the so called casual dining crunch.

“At Thomson Snell & Passmore, we know from a recent survey we carried out with operators and those in the restaurant business that they are fac-

ing increasing pressures.

“This is from a melting pot of challenges ranging from attracting and retaining the right talented staff, rising business rates, uncertainty in the economy, especially due to Brexit, and consumers constantly looking for the latest concept and innovations.”

Additional reporting by Charlotte Taylor

‘It will make a great impact on the town centre’ Continued from Page 1 The full business plan is set to be launched in September.

At the end of a five year period, businesses are asked to vote on whether the BID should be continued. And in 90 per cent of towns, firms have backed the renewal.

Karen Pengelly, Manager of RTW Together, feels businesses will experience an overall benefit from being part of the scheme through greater footfall.

She said: “I think we stand a good chance of securing this. I think it will be incredibly positive and will make a good impact on the town centre.

“We are all about boosting the community and the local economy. It could mean more events and multiple strands coming together.”

RTW Together has already proven a BID is feasible and is now preparing for the ballot stage.

This important next step, likely to take place this coming autumn, requires a vote of approval from more than 50 per cent of businesses involved and more than 50 per cent of votes of businesses by ratable value.

Stephen Tillman of developer Altitude, which is set to build The Belvedere project on the old cinema site, said: “We would be very supportive of one.

“We have had experience of working with a BID and appreciate the benefits of a coordinated voice from local businesses.

“We are supportive of BIDs as a principle but would like to find out more about the specific aims and objectives of the BID in Tunbridge Wells” Alex Green, Executive Director of Trinity Theatre, said: “It is something I am very supportive of.

“It is an opportunity for businesses to take control of their own interests, but I think the interest will be complimentary and will benefit the whole town.

“There is a lot of synergy between the groups and that is good for business and good for residents as it benefits citizens and employers.

“As someone who works in the arts, I am keen to see the BID supporting Tunbridge Wells as a destination to come to.”

For more information, visit http://www. tunbridgewellstogether.co.uk/

A stroke of genius

By Andy Tong A CAT café is opening in Tonbridge today [July 25] and will be just the fifth such venture in the UK. Elaine Lucas launched Paws in Angel Walk, off the High Street, with her daughter Lauren and is taking bookings for those who want to meet the 11 feline staff.

Mrs Lucas said the idea to offer tea, coffee and cake in the purr-fect setting originates in Japan and can be stress reducing.

Only 20 customers are allowed in at any one time. “It’s more of an experience than a coffee shop,” said Mrs Lucas. The one-hour sessions will cost £5 per adult. www.pawscat.cafe

WHAT’S THE POINT OF HAVING LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? NO SURPRISE that figures released recently show more than 300 local and regional newspapers have gone out of business in the last decade. According to a report by research group Mediatique in 2007 there were 1,303 papers compared to 982 in 2017.

The number of full-time print journalists has also plunged from 23,000 to 17,000 in the same period.

So what? you might ask. This is a new era where people, the argument goes, get their news, if they bother at all, from their phones or iPads. Who needs a local paper?

Well, if you believe the Culture Secretary Matt Hancock, speaking after the figures were released, Britain’s ‘fearless and independent’

press is one of the ‘foundations’ of democracy and must be protected.

At our level that means, in no particular, order: Providing a platform that supports local business, without which the town would not survive.

Holding those in authority to account; think political parties, councils, hospitals, police etc.

And, equally important, celebrating all that’s good about our town by enabling locals to have a voice on what delights them and if relevant, what concerns them.

Dame Frances Cairncross is now to lead a Government review of the industry with a view to ensuring that consumers ‘have access to high-quality journalism which meets their

needs, is delivered in in the way they want and supports democratic engagement’.

Many of us are cynical about Government reviews which can simply mean knocking the ball into the long grass.

Hopefully this one might be meaningful and lead somewhere that helps newspapers survive.

Not so long ago a Labour MP from a London constituency visited Tunbridge Wells on the political circuit and expressed surprise that we have two local newspapers, the Times and the Courier.

“You’re so lucky, we don’t even have one newspaper left,” he added.

Yes we are lucky, and long may it continue...

Editorial Director, Richard Moore

NEWS IN BRIEF

Man bailed after RTC in police investigation POLICE have arrested a 32-year-old man from Hemel Hempstead on suspicion of grievous bodily harm after an incident in Hawkenbury.

The man has been bailed until August 14 after a reported road traffic collision and assault in Forest Road on July 16, which led to another man being taken to hospital.

In a separate incident, the force has charged 28-year-old Gordon Locke on suspicion of murdering Gordon Farnes, who was found dead in Sherwood Road, Tunbridge Wells, on July 17.

Last chance for photos PHOTOGRAPHIC entries for the Tonbridge Daily calendar will close on Tuesday [July 31] ahead of next month’s judging.

If you would like to submit pictures, send them with your name and the place where the photo was taken to tonbridgedailycalendar@gmail.com

Fundraising concert OXFAM charity shop on Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, is holding an in-store fundraising concert on Saturday [July 28] from 1pm.

The free event will feature performances from local artists Pezzhead, Will Critchley, Jack Irven and Verity Hawes.

Guide dogs at the Castle THE Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells branch of Guide Dogs will hold their free summer fete at Tonbridge Castle on Saturday [July 28] from 11am to 3pm.

The stars of the show will be the guide dogs puppy display team, while the public is also invited to bring their own dogs for the Fun Dog Show from 1.30pm.

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Warning for residents to stay in

By Duncan Audsley SOUTH EAST residents have been advised by the Met Office to stay out of the sun for the rest of the week.

The weather service has issued a level three amber heat health watch warning, with temperatures set to top 30°C tomorrow [Thursday] in

Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

A Met Office spokeswoman said: “Dry and sunny weather should dominate through the week, but interspersed with heavy showers in afternoon and evening periods.

“Temperatures will be very warm or hot; very hot in the east. Thresholds could be breached in places from

Monday onwards, with very warm and muggy overnight conditions.”

Kent County Council’s Director for Public Health Andrew Scott said: “The heat can affect your health more than you might think – prolonged exposure to hot temperatures can lead to worsening of heart problems, respiratory difficulties.”

HOT SPOT Many of the area’s scenic spots like Barden Lake are scorched

Funeral for Avice Jukes THE funeral of Avice Jukes, the late wife of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Leader David Jukes, will be held on Wednesday, August 3.

A service at St Mary’s Church, Speldhurst, will be held from 11.30am in memory of the former Mayoress, who was known to friends as Wendy.

The family welcomes donations to Tunbridge Wells Kidney Treatment Centre, which can be posted to E.R Hickmott & Son, 41 Grove Hill Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1SD

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Wednesday July 25 | 2018

GOOD NEIGHBOURS ENJOY A KNEES UP AROUND 200 people enjoyed the annual Stephen’s Road Street Party in Tunbridge Wells.

Now into its eighth year, it included performances from two bands, a dog show, a plant swap, food from St John’s Fish Bar and entertainment on a ‘fun bus’.

It was sponsored by Le Grys Estate Agents.

Fewer than one in ten crimes Have your say on resulted in a charge in Kent where to pick up a

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk ONLY 8 per cent of crimes recorded in Kent last year led to a suspect being charged or summonsed, latest data has shown.

Home Office figures, released last week, show that in 2017-18 there were 177,200 crimes recorded

by Kent Police. This up from 131,500 in 2016-17.

But in the same time period, there were 14,700 charges. This is up from 13,600 the year before but represents a relative drop of 8 per cent.

Responsibility The recorded crime rise of 61 per cent from 2016/17 to 2017/18 is far above the national average for forces of 36 per cent.

Kent Police has defended their policies for the second time in recent months, following a Times story in May which showed a three year drop in charges.

Deputy Chief Constable Tony Blaker, of Kent Police, said: “Many single incidents recorded previously as single crimes could now be

recorded as multiple crimes.

“For example, previously if four people were found fighting outside a nightclub and it was not clear who was in the right or wrong, one report of affray would have been recorded whereas now four counter allegations of assault and one of affray could be recorded.

“There are a total of 21 different outcomes for recorded crime and these can vary from a charge or caution, to community resolution and in some instances establishing no crime has taken place.

“The prospect of obtaining a charge is based on the evidence available to officers and support from the victim in progressing the investigation.

“Any outcomes involving community resolutions are made with the full support of the victim and where the offender admits responsibility for their actions.

“While the outcome of an investigation is very important, Kent Police’s main focus is always the needs of the victim.”

The Home Office data showed that in the 12 months to March 2018, 443,000 crimes resulted in a charge or summons out of 4.6 million offences - the lowest detection rate since 2015.

copy of the Times

SUCH is the popularity of ‘your favourite local newspaper’ that each week practically every copy of the Times that we print is picked up by readers across Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.

Because of this high demand we will be changing the way the newspapers will be distributed making more free copies available to pick up and increasing the number of distribution stands.

We’d like to hear suggestions from you, our readers, about possible new distribution points where you would like to see papers made available, so please do get in touch. You can pass on your comments at: info@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk Or you can write to us: Times, 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1NU

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Excitement as £13.2m Culture Hub designs revealed at launch party

STAND ON CEREMONY Hub designs are presented at a launch party

By Duncan Audsley and Charlotte Taylor will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE countdown to the opening of the £13.2million Tunbridge Wells Cultural and Learning Hub has started.

Historians, councillors and visitors are eagerly awaiting the completion of the project, which is to be named after town suffragist Amelia Scott.

The hub will combine the town’s library, museum, tourist information and gallery in a redesigned centre on Civic Way, which will provide a more efficient use of space and allow more exhibits to be on display.

And following the approval of several grants, contributing towards the project, there is only £1million left to raise.

Last week the town’s great and good gathered inside the existing Museum & Art Gallery to mark the launch of the hub, which is set to open in the summer of 2021.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Kent County Council are jointly behind the project, which has been backed with funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and from Arts Council England.

Borough councillor Jane March,

portfolio holder for culture, said: “It is my belief that the council’s cultural strategy and commitment to cultural regeneration is an important economic driver.

Safeguard “The Amelia Scott project will do much to enhance and safeguard the future of the town, this type of attraction encourages inward investment and brings visitors.”

Visitors to the launch party got to see artists impressions of the hub, which showed prominent displays of

costumes and vintage vehicles, some of which are suspended from the ceiling.

The borough council said the hub will attract more than 400,000 visitors a year.

Architectural firm Purcell and designers Metaphor have been appointed to oversee the design side, while a contractor will be appointed in December to build it with construction to begin in January 2019.

Library and museum services are to be temporarily rehomed throughout the two year building process.

Amanda Doran, a Curator at Tunbridge Wells Museum said: “It is going to be an extraordinary opportunity to open up the museum. We have an unrivalled collection for a local museum. There are Georgian and Victorian costumes as well as bodices and 1960s mini-dresses.

“It is creating a different ambiance,” she continued. “It could also allow us to have more work with schools. We want our collection to be available to everybody.” Jeremy Kimmel, of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, said: “It’s going to create a community focal-point for culture that is open and accessible to people from all walks of life.

“I think it’s just going to be very impressive and inspiring, the sort of space you would want to spend a lot of time and that speaks to the quality of the experiences you can have there.”

ON TREND Fashion through the years

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

ROOM WITH A VIEW The hub could attract 400,000 visitors a year

CULTURE HUB WILL PUT ITEMS BACK ON DISPLAY TUNBRIDGE WELLS Museum has around 60,000 objects, while the borough archives has around 10,000 items and The Library Local Studies collection comprises around 7,000 objects. It is a lot to fit in – but curators are hopeful the new hub will give artefacts the space they deserve.

Visitors will immediately see the ‘Wow Wall’ of objects upon entry.

There will also be a special exhibit telling ‘The Story of Tunbridge Wells and High Weald’ from 1606 to present.

In the gallery, both temporary and permanent exhibitions will be a focal point for visitors. Another key attraction is the fashion items, collated over the years.

ANOTHER HUB FOR ANOTHER TOWN IN ADDITION to the Amelia Scott centre, a hub will be built in Southborough.

Kent County Council, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and Southborough Town Council are all behind the project which will cost several million pounds [the final amount is yet to be revealed].

A new contractor Baxall Construction will be presenting a new, more cost efficient design later this year, as the hub will not be built as the eye-catching original due to cost cuts.

The new Southborough hub will contain a 350-seat theatre, council meeting rooms, medical centre, retail unit and a café.

Residents and councillors are not happy about the idea due to the loss of the Royal Victoria Hall and the surrounding playing fields.

MEANWHILE… Council seek Calverley access through Hoopers’ car park At an earlier stage a Cabinet Advisory Board had voted seven to two in favour.

Opposition Leader Cllr Ben Chapelard, of the Liberal Democrat group, who at that stage voted against, said: “The Conservatives are hell-bent on delivering the wrong project, in the wrong place, at the wrong time for our town.

“The council’s need for the CPO merely confirms that the civic development is in the wrong location. A rethink is needed.”

On request for a further response, Hoopers told the Times they had ‘nothing to add’ to their July 2017 statement.

By William Mata A RIGHT of way through Hoopers’ car park has been requested by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council for their Calverley Square project.

The authority is to press ahead with a Compulsory Purchase Order [CPO] to secure passage from Grove Hill Road to the £90million civic complex and theatre, which borders Calverley Grounds.

Hoopers, a cornerstone department store in Tunbridge Wells, has previously objected to this motion.

‘Devastating’ Their most recent statement, from July last year, read: “The threat of a CPO on the customer car park will have a potentially devastating effect.

“The council’s planned access route would create an existential threat to the current operation and viability of an iconic independent retail business.”

The council’s Cabinet unanimously agreed to the ‘last resort’ order in a meeting at the Town Hall on Thursday [July 19], which lasted just 12 minutes.

The order will be made following a process which is expected to begin in August.

It follows advanced plans for Calverley Square being passed by the full council in December 2017 and planning permission being granted earlier this year. The theatre is likely to open in 2022 the Secretary of State for Communities and

WHAT THE LAW STATES ABOUT MAKING A CPO Local Government could be requested to confirm the CPO if the matter goes to a public inquiry.

Discussions began with Hoopers in July 2016 and the two parties have not reached an agreement – although conversations will continue. Hoopers is not expected to lose any car parking spaces as a result.

Other sites, owned by the council, set to be affected by the CPO are: n The 205-space Great Hall Car Park and 49-space Mount Pleasant Road Car Park, which are set to be demolished to make way for a new 259-space underground facility. n The toilet block within Calverley Grounds is also set to be demolished.

n Access rights over Mount Pleasant Avenue and

Grove Hill House [where the council do not own all of the rights].

The dentist in Calverley Grounds is also likely to be affected and is not owned by the council.

Council Leader David Jukes, of the ruling Conservative group, said: “The CPOs are a last resort. I am delighted at the way we have handled this.

“We are not coming in and grabbing things. We have been in negotiation with several companies that are affected for a long time and have made progress.”

His Tory colleague Cllr Tracy Moore added: “We are not looking to acquire Hoopers car park, it is just for access.”

Councils have power to acquire compulsorily any land within its area if it thinks that the acquisition will facilitate the carrying out of development, redevelopment or improvement on or in relation to the land.

The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 states this power must not be exercised unless the project would improve the economy, social well-being or environment of an area.

Government guidelines state that ‘efforts must have been made to acquire by agreement’ before a CPO is sought.

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Plan to build 14,000 homes gets go-ahead MORE than 14,000 homes are set to be built in East Sussex after Wealden District Council approved their Local Plan.

The authority has agreed to a proposal to build around 950 homes a year for the next decade.

This is in order to deliver the target 14,228 properties within the 2013 to 2028 time period.

Frant, Bells Yew Green, Heathfield and Mark Cross are among the list of places where development would be permissible.

But the council does not choose how many houses are built where, rather, it is up to a developer to present a plan.

Ashdown Forest is set to be safeguarded under a clause in the Local Plan.

This states no residential development will be allowed within 400m of the historic forest, unless there are ‘exceptional circumstances’.

Examination Now the Conservative-led Wealden District Council has given the go-ahead, the Local Plan will be forwarded to the Secretary of State for examination.

An amendment to the Local Plan, proposed by Cllr David White and seconded by Cllr Stephen Shing, seeking to relocate a proposed development site in Lower Horsebridge failed.

Cllr Ann Newton, Cabinet member for Planning, said: “Our proposals are in line with the latest Government aims to meet the widespread need.

“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.”

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

New Chief Executive of Wealden council THE first new Chief Executive of Wealden District Council for 16 years has been sworn in.

Trevor Scott, the former Director of Governance and Corporate Services, has taken over from Charles Lant in the authority’s most senior non-political role.

Mr Scott said: “We have achieved much in recent years, but there is still much to do.”

GOING UNDERGROUND: Kent Highways are still treating a tennis court-sized sinkhole which has opened up on Tonbridge Road, on the A26 towards Maidstone. Teams are drilling into the ground to insert cement into the 20m by 12m hole, which is around 3m deep. The sinkhole opened up on May 28 and is expected to be fixed in September, according to a county council update.

Tories take top jobs in County Hall reshuffle TWO Kent County Councillors who represent Tunbridge Wells have been promoted in the authority’s reshuffle.

Council Leader Paul Carter has made the changes after Cllr John Simmonds resigned his post as Cabinet Member for Finance, due to ill health. His position has been filled in sort by Cllr Peter Oakford, who has become Cabinet Member for Finance and Traded Services.

The member for Tunbridge Wells

North, Cllr Oakford will also continue in his role as Deputy Leader of the authority and represent St John’s on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Cllr Catherine Rankin, who notably lost her seat on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in May to Tunbridge Wells member Nick Pope, is another to move up.

As a county councillor for PROMOTION Tunbridge Cllr Catherine Wells South, Rankin

Cllr Rankin has joined the Cabinet as portfolio holder for Strategic Commissioning.

Cllr Graham Gibbens continues as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and also takes on responsibility for Public Health.

As Leader of the County Council, Cllr Carter will retain responsibility for Health Reform. The remainder of the Cabinet is unchanged.

The county council is governed by the ruling Conservative Party, who have 67 of the 81 representatives including all of the Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells members.

Knights Wood passed AN extra 49 homes are to be built at the Knights Wood estate, near to the Odeon cinema site in North Farm, High Brooms.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council unanimously approved plans for the additional properties in a meeting last week. This will now see almost 600 homes constructed on the site when the ‘phase four’ project is completed.

Fatal crash in Penshurst A SOUTHBOROUGH man in his 60s from Southborough has died in a road collision near Penshurst. Kent Police were called at 6.30pm on Tuesday last week to a collision involving a blue tanker and a cyclist on the B2176 Penshurst Road near Bidborough.

Witnesses should call 01622 798538.

Fly-tipping fine in forest EDENBRIDGE man Richard Cormick has been fined £461 and ordered to pay costs of an additional £1,000 for a fly-tipping offence in Ashdown Forest.

The 48 year old pleaded guilty as he failed to ensure waste he had been paid to remove, was disposed of correctly.

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Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Lions legend McBride is guest of honour at Tree of Hope’s Sporting Heroes Lunch PRIDE OF IRELAND Willie John McBride went on a record five Lions tours

“It has been an action-packed year so far with something for everyone to get involved with, and this will be a fabulous event.

“We are all looking forward to welcoming not only our sporting heroes but also our many supporters.”

Mr McBride, 78, earned 63 caps for Ireland as a lock forward and captained his country 11 times. He received an MBE for his services to the sport in 1971.

He is best known as captain of the most successful British & Irish Lions side in the history of the sport – the unbeaten ‘Invincibles’ on the 1974 tour of South Africa.

It was the fifth Lions excursion he had been picked for, and even though he was 34 he was chosen to lead the side because of his outstanding leadership qualities.

It was to prove one of the most controversial

‘All of our team knew exactly what was expected of them – and of course what the 99 call meant!’

By Andy Tong A SPECIAL Sporting Heroes Lunch will be held this year to mark a quarter of a century of the local children’s charity Tree of Hope.

The key speaker will be Lions rugby legend Willie John McBride, who is a keen supporter of charities supporting young people.

The celebration will be held at One Warwick Park in Tunbridge Wells on Friday October 5 at 1.30pm, and will he hosted by former Kent and England cricketer Chris Cowdrey, who went to Tonbridge School.

Table tennis player Ross Wilson, a Paralympic bronze medallist at London 2012 and Rio 2016 and Commonwealth Games gold medallist, will attend in his role as patron.

Tree of Hope, which is based in Tonbridge, is a crowdfunding charity which supports children with disability or illness by helping their families to raise the money to pay for specialist care that is not freely available on the NHS. Gill Gibb, Chief Executive of Tree of Hope, said: “Our second Sporting Heroes lunch is extra special because this year marks our 25th anniversary.

tours in the history of the sport, with the Lions winning 3-0 against a backdrop of intense Springbok aggression.

The tour management had decided to fight fire with fire and Mr McBride introduced a policy of ‘one in, all in’ – when one of the Lions retaliated, all his team mates were expected to join in.

This was at a time when there was no video analysis or extra officials to spot unsportsmanlike conduct on the field.

This tactic was taken a stage further, with the infamous ’99 call’ – a shortened version of the emergency number 999 – in which players were instructed to ‘get their retaliation in first’ and lash out at the nearest South African player.

Mr McBride retired from international rugby the following year, though he went on to coach Ireland and was manager of the 1983 Lions tour to New Zealand.

Irish rugby remains close to his heart, at a time when the national side are hitting peak form ahead of next year’s World Cup in Japan.

They won the Six Nations Championship with a Grand Slam in March, after beating England at Twickenham, and are ranked second in the world behind the All Blacks.

If you would like to book a table for the Sporting Heroes Lunch, visit www.sportingheroeslunch. com/book-a-table, call 01892 575677 or email info@sportingheroeslunch.com

GETTING THE LOWDOWN FROM A LEGEND: WILLIE JOHN MCBRIDE MR MCBRIDE spoke to the Times about his experiences with the Lions and his hopes for the future of Irish rugby and the sport in general: What are the reasons for Ireland’s Grand Slam success at the moment? They have one of the best – if not the best – coaches in the world in Joe Schmidt. He has an eye for talent, never fusses, and they are very much a team playing together. When he took over as coach there was a lack of depth and he has brought along some excellent younger players. They do have more players for positions than they have had in recent previous years.

You took part in many Lions tours. Were you impressed by last year’s showing in New Zealand? Yes, very impressed. I didn’t have high hopes before the tour but they proved me wrong.

Do you think the 1974 Lions tour was the greatest of them all? It was an amazing team— they were all winners and they scored some incredible tries.

What do you think of the modern game? More skilful? Less passionate? It’s changed but it’s not necessarily more skilful. There were some very skilful players in my days – Gareth Edwards, JPR Williams, David Duckham, Andy Irvine, etc.

Eddie Jones started as the coach who could do no wrong but now he is under huge scrutiny ahead of the World Cup next year. What’s gone wrong? He took over a very good England team and was lucky with what he had. Some of them are no longer in his squad so he has had to bring in new players.

Who do you see as the likely winners of the World Cup next year – after the All Blacks, then who? Yes, the All Blacks are strong favourites.

With the other teams it depends a lot on injuries. Ireland and South Africa, with Wales and Scotland as possible outsiders.

Many high-profile players have been rested for the summer tours by the home nations. Do you think players are being worked too hard?

Players overworked? Yes they are. Rugby is a much more demanding game and that must be looked at in the future. And there’s too much money in the sport.

The series was renowned for its physical confrontations. Is it true that you had a rule of ‘one in, all in’ retaliation to Springbok aggression – and a ‘99’ call? Was that meant to be a pre-emptive strike?

We played very much as a team. All winners, no nonsense, 99 emergency. On previous tours the opposition took out some key players who were then unfit to play in the Tests, so we needed to front up and not allow this to happen. Also before the use of neutral referees the local South African referees were put under a lot of pressure to support the home side. But all of our team knew exactly SUPPORTER what was expected of Mr McBride works them – and of course closely with charities what the 99 call meant! for young people

There are concerns about bulking up and putting in bigger hits these days – especially among youth players. Do you see this as a problem?

This has to be a big worry and it is not good for the game. Yes, players are putting in bigger hits – they must be more supple.

You are a great supporter of charities. What inspires you about the work of organisations like Tree of Hope? I am always keen to support charities for young people and I work very closely with two of them, The Wooden Spoon Society and Riding for the Disabled. So of course I am interested in the amazing work of Tree of Hope and wish them all the luck in the world.

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

GROUNDS FORCE Jennette Emery-Wallis, designer of Calverley Adventure Grounds

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THE creative mind behind Calverley Adventure Grounds in Tunbridge Wells has earned a Civic Voice Design Award for the achievement.

Landscape architect Jennette Emery-Wallis was honoured in the Public Realm Category at a ceremony held last week in The Leadenhall Building in London.

Civic Voice is a national charity that represents civic movements. In total, 11 awards were presented at the ceremony for a variety of schemes across England.

Ms Emery-Wallis was hailed for her achievement

by LUC, the environmental consultants, where she is Director of Landscape Architecture.

Of the adventure playground, a spokesman commented: “The judges said it was the unanimous winner for its strong community story.”

Max Farrell, Chairman of the Awards, said: “These winners each reflect many of the aims and ambitions of Civic Voice. The charity has shown a commitment to placemaking through a collaborative approach pulling the public, private and voluntary sector together.”

BUSINESS

11

Figures show employment rise in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge

By William Mata

Architect wins award for her design in park

Local Business News

JOB-SEEKER numbers have fallen in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge alongside the national trend.

The latest Office for National Statistics [ONS] data shows a record 32.4million people were in work in the UK from March to May of the current year.

This was nearly 400,000 higher than the same period last year.

In Tunbridge Wells borough, 615

people signed on last month, which was 250 less than in 2013.

For Tonbridge & Malling borough, the figure of 715 for last month was 630 less than in 2013.

Buoyant Libby Swift, Work Coach Team Leader at Tonbridge Jobcentre Plus, commented: “It has been a buoyant market. We have been having positive interactions with employers.

“We have had a range of them come to us, with hotel and hospitality workers particularly in demand.”

For the whole of the UK, the ONS said the employment rate was at 75 per cent and unemployment remained at 4.2 per cent – the lowest figure since 1975.

Matt Hughes of the ONS said: “We’ve had yet another record employment rate, while the number of job vacancies is also a new record.

“From this, it’s clear that the labour

market is still growing strongly.

“Meanwhile, real earnings remain modestly up on the year, both including and excluding bonuses.”

For Kent, the number of job seekers fell for the second month in succession, following seven consecutive months of increase.

Thanet is the borough with the most number of job seekers in Kent, totalling 4,015, while Sevenoaks had the fewest number of people signing on – 490.

Businesses raise thousands in annual Charity Golf Day event

By Duncan Audsley WEBSITE design firm Studio 44 raised £4,500 for children’s hospice ellenor in their third annual Charity Golf Day. Seventy-five golfers, all from local businesses, teed-off for the cause at the Nevill Golf Club in Tunbridge Wells earlier this month.

Doug Rubashow, Director of Tunbridge Wells-based Studio 44, said: “It was a great day, with lots of enthusiasm on the course.

“This is the third year we have run the golf day in support of ellenor, and the more work we do with them, the more we really understand the

difference they make to so many people. We are extremely grateful to all the local businesses who supported us and helped us raise more than £4,500.”

Hospice After the final round was completed, the golfers enjoyed an evening reception at the club. This involved an evening meal, raffle and auction. ellenor is Kent’s only charity offering hospice at home care to children.

Fundraising Manager Kate Barnes said: “Studio 44’s support has been fantastic, we are really grateful for

ON COURSE: Golfers enjoy the occasion, which raised money for ellenor their fundraising and exposure.

“They’ve been very active on social media by raising awareness of the event and of ellenor.

“It’s great to see local businesses coming together to help make a real difference to the children and

families that we support.”

David Blundell, Chairman of the Nevill Golf Club, added: “It was a fantastic event and everyone was very supportive of ellenor, and we were proud to be hosts to such a wonderful cause.”

12

BUSINESS

Local Business News

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Sundial repaired in time for In Bloom competition judging

SET IN STONE The sundial was constructed in 1926, the same year The Queen was born

PHOTO: Stephanie Challis

By Duncan Audsley THE efforts of horticultural campaign group Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom have been helped by a restored sundial from local ornament makers Chilstone.

The group have entered the Royal Horticultural Society In Bloom competition, which runs throughout the summer, and judging is currently underway.

The sundial, which stands in

Calverley Grounds, dates back to 1926 and had suffered a central fracture.

Helen Timms, Head of Parks for Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, contacted Chilstone to make the repair.

The plinth is now a centrepiece in the town’s effort to win both the South & South East in Bloom and Britain in Bloom competitions.

Ms Timms said: “We are imm-

ensely pleased with how the repair has turned out, you can’t see it at all.

“It’s fantastic to have the sundial back in its rightful place. I didn’t realise how bare the gardens looked without it until it was back in position.”

Chilstone is celebrating 65 years in business. Earlier this year their Kensington Palace Gardens planters featured in the royal engagement photos.

Agency continue decade-long winning streak

By William Mata THE work of Baldwins Travel Group has been recognised once again, with the company winning a Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Award.

The agency, which has an office in Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, won the Travel Agent of the Year for London & the South East last week for the 11th consecutive year.

The group also received National High Street Agency of the Year 2018 at the ceremony at Park Plaza, near London’s Westminster Bridge.

The award was picked up by Baldwins Directors Nick, Chris, Ron and Sally Marks.

The family-run business has been a fixture in Tunbridge Wells since 1895, and now has eight branches in Kent and Sussex.

Joint Managing Director Nick

Marks said: “We are thrilled to have won this award and would like to thank all our loyal customers who have helped us achieve this.

“We are passionate about booking personalised, tailor-made holiday itineraries, and this award is testament to the hard work and dedication of all our staff who bring those to life for our customers.”

The awards, which honour the best agents and agencies in the country, was co-hosted by Travel Weekly Editor-in-Chief Lucy Huxley and comedian Rob Beckett.

Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, added: “We are delighted to see our members recognised at the Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards.

“We would like to congratulate Baldwins Travel Group for their outstanding performance this year.”

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

Autistic shoppers to be helped by store SUPERMARKET Morrisons is to introduce a ‘quiet hour’ on Saturday mornings to help autistic customers.

From 9am to 10am the stores will turn off music, not use beeping noises at checkouts, have dimmer lights, and avoid making tannoy announcements.

These are typical of surroundings that people with autism can find stressful.

The Morrisons store in Crowborough is one of 493 around the UK to have introduced the quiet hour initiative.

Kent’s best buildings NOMINATIONS have opened for the biannual Kent Design & Development Awards 2018.

There are six categories in which developers can enter their new builds. The deadline for entries is July 31, with the awards ceremony to be held on November 8.

Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter said: “Kent is determined to show itself to the best possible advantage.”

To enter, or find out more, visit: www.kentdesigndevelopmentawards.co.uk

Southeastern’s win

COLLECTING THE 11TH AWARD IN A ROW: Members of the Marks family pick up the award from co-hosts Lucy Huxley (far left) and Rob Beckett (far right)

RAIL franchise holder Southeastern has been ‘highly commended’ at a ceremony for their rebuilding of London Bridge Station.

The firm was given the accolade at the industry Fourth Friday Club annual meeting, held this year at the Paddington Hilton Hotel in London.

Judges praised the ‘partnership’ with Network Rail and South Western Railway to rebuild London Bridge last year.

14

NEWS

Community News

Tonbridge Rotary and Lawson Trust’s treat for Nexus students THE Tonbridge branch of The Rotary Club of Tonbridge took more than 100 children and carers from Nexus special educational needs school on the annual Kids Out Day at Chessington World of Adventures.

A total of 2,439 people went on the trip from around the country, of which some 1,450 were young people or children. Over 40 Rotary Clubs took part – and 860 packed lunches were ordered.

Success “This was an immense feat of organisation by the conveners,” said the Rotary’s Peter Ruck.

“As usual, the club supported Nexus School’s participation in the event.

“Peter Croft, the Head of Maths at Nexus, led the school party and he very kindly took Tonbridge Rotarian Arthur Rucker on a tour of the secondary part of the school on the day before the trip.

“Nexus provides what looked like being an excellent education for special needs students from two to 19, and the relationship between staff and students appeared to be really excellent.”

In total, 58 students went on the trip from the secondary part of the school, along with 49 carers, school staff and parents.

Mr Ruck added: “Tonbridge Rotary paid for the coaches, students and their lunches, and the cost was very generously covered by a donation from the Lawson Trust, arranged by Rotarian Phil Thomas, which he does every year.

“The day was a huge success. Peter Croft told Arthur that the students looked forward to it throughout the year. They started asking about it in September and had been planning the rides they’d go on for months.

“Arthur went round with Peter’s group and he could see that most of the students were enjoying themselves enormously.

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Benenden Hospital staff scale dizzy heights to help Tanzania’s doctors A TEAM from Benenden Hospital have raised £5,000 for an African medical centre by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

It took Simon Brooks, Marcus Dallamore, Rebecca Fellowes, Debkumar Pandit, Su Pothuraju and Alex Trimmings six days to reach the summit.

The dormant volcano is the highest mountain in Africa at 19,340ft, and they were supported by 21 porters, two cooks and two guides.

Elation The proceeds will go towards buying anaesthesia equipment for the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre in Moshi. The Benenden staff also spent the first three days of their trip training local medics.

Simon said: “It was a massive feeling of elation when we got to the top and it felt like we were literally on top of the world. Some of us had a few slips and falls, but luckily none of us

TOP EFFORT The staff team reach the summit of Kilimanjaro

suffered too badly from altitude sickness and we all made it up and back down again.”

Members of the group scaled Mount Snowdon and Cadair Idris in Wales and undertook the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge to prepare.

Anaesthetic practitioners Simon, Becky and Marcus received funding from Benenden Hospital’s Lord Plant Travelling Fellowship to help pay for the three-week trip.

Set up in memory of the hospital’s former Chairman, Lord Cyril Plant of Benenden, the grant was set up in 1988 and has since been awarded to staff every year. It has helped fund aid trips to The Gambia, Japan and Romania.

The group were also supported by Mardenbased charity Safe Anaesthesia Worldwide, which provides life-saving treatment to the Third World.

Tanzania currently has only 17 practising anaesthetists, with a population of 56 million, and very few doctors trained to carry it out.

Aspens All Stars triumph in Lions’ It’s A Knockout TONBRIDGE LIONS invited local groups with learning and physical difficulties to attend the annual It’s A Knockout fun day at The Angel Centre.

Ten teams, comprising around 100 participants in total, tried out a variety of games testing running speed, following instructions and manual dexterity.

This encouraged the teams to challenge themselves, with the help of carers, and all contestants received medals.

The overall winners were As-

pens All Stars, formerly Pepenbury, with The Crazy Gang from Horizon in second place.

Prize The teams also designed and made Joker cards, which were judged by the Deputy Mayor of Tonbridge & Malling, Cllr Jill Anderson, and Peggy Hill, wife of Lion President Gordon Hill.

The prize was awarded to the Cranbrook Crew.

The event was started in the

early 1990s by Lion Michael Adams, who made all the equipment for the games which is still in use today.

Dominic Keast, the Chairman of the Lions’ organising committee, said: “We are extremely pleased with the way the day went and an enjoyable time was had by all.

“We would like to thank all those who took part and made it such a fun day, and also The Angel Centre staff for their assistance in setting up the event.”

TRUMP CARD Cranbrook Crew with their winning Joker

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FEATURES

15

16 LIFESTYLE Local Parks

IN thekn

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wPLACES TO GO

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Bewl Water

Our digital platform The Know suggests ten of our local parks that are just perfect for picnics GROSVENOR & HILBERT PARK The Grosvenor Recreation Ground was Tunbridge Wells’ first public park. It was opened in 1889, and is still a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Found close to Upper Grosvenor Road, it’s a great family-friendly park with a fantastic play area for children, sporting facilities and plenty of picnic spots too.

W

ith the schools now closed and the weather still warm and sunny it’s officially high summer so if you’re not jetting off somewhere exotic just yet then why not grab a blanket, some picnic treats and enjoy some time out in one of these nearby green spaces…

CALVERLEY GROUNDS This park, in the heart of Tunbridge Wells is a haven for picnickers. Originally private grounds, they’re now open to all, and with high slopes, Calverley Grounds

PENNINGTON GROUNDS Southborough’s popular park not only boasts an outdoor gym and tennis courts but plenty of space for children to play, and well-kept grounds ideal for enjoying a picnic. there are some great places to sit and admire the views too.

DUNORLAN PARK Just a short work from the centre of Tunbridge Wells, Dunorlan boasts 78 acres of picturesque grounds, along with a boating lake, children’s play area and more. There’s certainly more than enough space to throw down your picnic blanket and watch the world go by.

THE GROVE The Grove is the oldest park in Tunbridge Wells, and can be found tucked behind the High Street.

Great for families to explore and workers wanting some rest and relaxation on their lunch break, this area of greenery is great for picnics.

HAWKENBUY RECREATION GROUNDS Hawkenbury Recreation Ground is situated on the edge of Tunbridge Wells, and as well as having a great selection of sporting facilities, it’s also a lovely place to take a picnic, with views across the town, but with none of the hustle and bustle.

THE COMMONS Together, Tunbridge Wells and Rusthall Commons comprise 256 acres of land including woods, lakes, ponds and also the infamous sandstone rocks. With numerous walking paths, viewpoints and areas to explore you could easily while away a Dunorlan Park day.

BEWL WATER Could there be a better way to picnic than surrounded by the largest stretch of water in the south east?

With 800 acres, Bewl Water has plenty of places to set down your picnic blanket and enjoy the scenery. And, if you want to work off those sausage rolls and sandwiches, you can take a walk around the reservoir too.

ST JOHN’S RECREATION GROUND This park has been recently redeveloped, and as well as baseball and tennis courts, a skate park and even a zip wire for the more active among you, there’s also ample space to sit and relax.

SHERWOOD LAKE & WOODLAND In 2010 this site became a registered Village Green, and it is open 365 days a year for visitors to enjoy. Take a stroll through the woodland, then chill out by the pretty lake.

For more articles like this visit our digital platform The Know www.theknow.guide

18

NEWS

National News

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Another arrest after acid attack on toddler

SPORT IN BRIEF

Wolff backs Hamilton’s criticism of Sky pundits

A FIFTH man has been arrested over a suspected acid attack on a three-year-old boy in Worcester.

West Mercia Police said the 41-year-old, who is from Wolverhampton, was detained over allegations of conspiracy to commit grievous bodily harm.

Meanwhile, officers are continuing to question three men from London aged in their 20s who were arrested early on Monday on suspicion of the same offence.

A 39-year-old man from Wolverhampton who was arrested on Sunday also remains in custody after Saturday’s attack, which left the victim with burns to his face and arm.

Detective Inspector Jim Bayliss said: “Our officers are continuing to work extremely hard on this investigation.

“At this time we believe this to be an isolated incident and there is not a wider risk to the public.”

Police have said they are working to ensure the safety and security of the victim and his family as they recover from their ‘shocking’ ordeal on Saturday at a Home Bargains shop near Worcester’s Shrub Hill railway station.

The child injured in the incident was discharged from hospital on Sunday after treatment but the long-term implications of his injuries are as yet unknown.

Seven English courts to close as part of cost cutting plans SEVEN courts in England will be closed to save money, the Justice Secretary David Gauke has announced.

Plans to shut down Cambridge Magistrates’ Court were withdrawn after a public consultation. But Banbury Magistrates’ and County Court, magistrates’ courts in Maidenhead, Chorley, Fleetwood, and Northallerton, Wandsworth County Court and Blackfriars Crown Court will all be axed.

Labour accused David Gauke of ‘slipping out the decision’ on the last day of the parliamentary session among a deluge of government announcements.

In a tweet, the party’s Commons Whips team said the Justice Secretary was ‘hiding from scrutiny’.

More than 700 responses to consultations on the closure plans were received.

Mr Gauke said: “All money raised from the sale of these buildings will be reinvested into the justice system, and we want to reassure communities that those affected by closures will have access to alternative courts.”

LEWIS Hamilton was encouraged by Mercedes not to delete an Instagram post in which he accused Sky Sports’ pundits of ‘undermining’ him following his win in the German Grand Prix.

“I find it amazing listening to the ex-drivers commentating [and] not a single one of them could find a good word to say,” Hamilton wrote before removing the post.

“Positivity and love wins always no matter what words you use to try and undermine me.”

Nico Rosberg was among Sky’s punditry team for the Hockenheim race, but it is understood that Hamilton’s criticism was not aimed at his long-term rival.

“I had a conversation with Lewis about it on Sunday night,” Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said. “I actually encouraged him to leave all that stuff online.”

Dettori contests ban

TITANIC TALK Film Director James Cameron

Titanic filmmaker says wreck should be left to rot on sea bed THE Hollywood director behind Oscar-winning movie Titanic said he strongly opposes cutting off and resurfacing sections of the world famous ship.

James Cameron, a film-maker and deep sea explorer, said it would cost billions of pounds to raise the wreck itself.

Mr Cameron, who first visited the Titanic wreck site in 1995 and has since made 33 dives over a 10-year period, also believes an international agreement between the US and the United Kingdom would help conserve and preserve the site.

“The feasibility of raising the wreck itself is pretty much zero unless one were to throw enough money at the problem to start a colony on Mars,” Mr Cameron said.

Disfigured “What is feasible is cutting big chunks off the wreck, for example taking the iconic bow section which I featured in the film. They could cut that

off and bring a big chunk to the surface leaving behind a horrible disfigured piece of wreckage.

“My feeling is it serves a greater purpose in situ, as a monument, and as a gravesite,” he added.

“I’m violently opposed to somebody going down there and hogging off great sections of the ship and distributing them off around the world.

“We can continue to photograph it, celebrate and understand it as a monument of a tragic event.”

Mr Cameron’s comments were made following a £14 million bid to buy a collection of more than 5,500 artefacts that have already been recovered from the Titanic wreck site. Titanic Belfast, the Titanic Foundation, National Museums Northern Ireland and the National Maritime Museum have teamed up to launch the multi-million pound Titanic Artefacts Collection campaign.

The rare collection has become available after a US company that currently owns the items filed for bankruptcy.

FRANKIE Dettori will miss the rides on Without Parole and Stradivarius at Goodwood next week, despite having a 10-day suspension for careless riding reduced on appeal at a hearing in London.

The Italian incurred the ban while riding Angel’s Hideaway in the Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket on July 13.

He contested the decision and while the disciplinary panel dismissed Dettori’s appeal against the Newmarket stewards’ finding of careless riding, it did opt to cut his suspension by four days.

ECB dismisses reports THE England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dismissed two newspaper reports about the format of its new 100-ball competition as ‘speculation’, adding that nothing will be decided until after several pilot matches this autumn.

On Tuesday, The Telegraph reported the game’s governing body is considering allowing a substitute to bat or bowl for their team and The Times claimed it could be as many as four substitutes, which would effectively turn the competition into a 15-man game but with only 11 players allowed to bat or field.

Ince signs for Stoke STOKE has signed Tom Ince from Huddersfield Town for an initial £10million.

The fee for the 26-year-old winger, who has agreed a four-year contract with the Sky Bet Championship side, could rise to £12million with add-ons. * For local sport turn to pages 78 & 79

20

BUSINESS

National Business and World News

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Sparkling rise in Fever Tree shares FEVER Tree’s shares were up by more than 11 per cent yesterday (Tuesday) after the drinks company posted impressive sales growth.

Revenue for the six months ending June 30 soared 45 per cent, from a £71.9million to £104.2million.

In the UK, sales increased by 73 per cent to £58million, while in the US sales rose 15 per cent to £15.1million. Sales in Europe climbed by 17 per cent to £25.8million.

Adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation were up 35 per cent to £34million over the half year.

Tim Warrillow, chief executive of Fever Tree, said: “The first half of 2018 has been one of major progress for Fever Tree.

“The group delivered a strong performance, most notably in the UK, as we continue to drive and lead the evolution of the wider mixer category.

“Furthermore, our relationships with key customers and spirits partners mean we are increasingly well-positioned as the growing move to premiumisation and long-mixed drinks continues to develop across the globe.”

The drinks firm has now signed a distribution deal with Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, the largest wine and spirits distribution firm in the US, to help it to deliver Fever Tree’s products across 29 US states.

Fever Tree has also been launching new products, with the addition of a low-calorie range in the UK.

CHEERS: Impressive sales growth

New owner puts car company into profit OPEL-VAUXHALL has managed to record its first profit in nearly 20 years under the new ownership of French firm and Peugeot-maker PSA Group.

The car manufacturer, which is a major employer in the UK, logged 502 million euro (£447 million) in operating profit in the six months to June 30.

That is compared to the 257 million euro (£229 million) loss reporting for full year 2016, the last full year that the company was still owned by General Motors.

PSA said it logged a 38.1 per cent rise in global sales, having sold a record 2.2 million vehicles.

PSA, which owns Peugeot and Citroen, agreed to buy the loss-making European arm of General Motors (GM) last year, which included the Vauxhall brand.

The move secured GM’s exit from the UK and Europe while transforming PSA into Europe’s second-largest car maker.

Vauxhall, which has factories in Ellesmere Port and Luton, announced in January plans to slash a further 250 jobs at its Ellesmere Port factory, adding to 400 staff cuts confirmed in October.

It was meant to boost productivity at the Cheshire-based plant by moving to a single production shift from April this year.

It now employs around 1,100 staff who manufacture the Vauxhall Astra at Ellesmere Port and a further 1,276 people produce the Vauxhall Vivaro van in Luton.

Around 30,000 people work across the Vauxhall brand, though that figure includes the dealership network, where some staff are not directly employed by the company.

Greece mourns fire victims GREEK Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has declared a three-day national mourning period for the dozens of people killed by wildfires near Athens.

Two major forest fires raged out of control on either side of Greece’s capital on Monday, burning houses and sending people fleeing to beaches and into the sea, where coast guard boats battled gale force winds to evacuate them.

Ambulance Service deputy director Miltiadis Mylonas said the number of casualties was likely to rise as more gutted homes and cars were checked.

EU proposes payment for saving migrants THE European Commission is to consider a proposal to pay member states 6,000 euro (£5,300) to accept and deal with each migrant saved at sea in the Mediterranean.

The EU’s executive said it wants to offer ‘full financial support’ to any member state volunteering to set up so-called controlled centres where people in need of international protection and those who have no right to stay in the 28-nation bloc will be assessed.

The leaders of EU member states decided in a summit last month how to deal with the pressures of migration after they accommodated Italian demands for more help.

EU member states will start discussing the matter on Thursday.

COUNTRY MOURNS: Death toll expected to rise

Cave boys to be ordained ELEVEN of the boys and their football coach who were rescued from a cave in Thailand have attended a ceremony as part of their preparation to be ordained to become Buddhist novices and monks.

Parchon Pratsakul, the governor of Chiang Rai province, confirmed the boys will be ordained to become Buddhist novices, while the 25-year-old coach will be ordained as a monk.

Sangiemjit Wongsukchan, mother of Ekarat Wongsukchan, aged 14, one of the boys who was trapped in the cave, said “We can only do this for nine days because then he will have to go back to study and prepare for exams. Back to his normal life.”

The 12 boys and their coach were released from hospital last Wednesday, more than a week after they were rescued from the flooded cave.

They became trapped on June 23 and were finally found by two British divers on July 2.

22

NEWS

Letters

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Wednesday July 25 | 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 Approach with care – all the roads outside schools should be 20mph

But then inconvenient facts are not the Leavers’ strong point, to put it very mildly.

James Robertson Pembury

Mr Clark’s problem is us Remainers

SLOW LEARNERS Claremont Primary School needs a lower speed limit at the Farmcombe Road entrance Most would agree a tragedy in the family is hard, but a needless tragedy more so. For many, losing a cat as a family pet is equally heartbreaking, especially when the cat in question is run over at speed in a residential street on a Sunday morning.

This is what happened to the much-loved pet of a couple who live in my ward. For those who found Felix it was gruesome, with half of the road covered in blood.

This all happened close by Claremont School in Farmcombe Road, close to a roundabout where you are supposed to approach with care and common sense. Whoever the driver was, neither attribute could be associated with them.

It happened on a Sunday morning at 9am; if it had been a weekday with lots of children around, I dread to think that a child could

MP damaged negotiating position The editor’s well-argued defence of the Business Secretary, MP Greg Clark [July 4] merits a riposte.

Starting at its end: His constituency of Tunbridge Wells voted to Remain but he voted for a referendum and the country voted to Leave; he is bound to deliver this.

That he is ‘our MP’ is neither here nor there: It should not command slavish adherence to him and his pro-Europe stance.

Mr Clark raises concerns that the British aero industry is at risk if we leave. My understanding is that this industry transcends all tariffs, so raising this is Project Fear Mk II. BMW also exercises Mr Clark, but the trade advantage between the two auto industries is in Europe’s favour – it’s in Europe’s interest to ‘keep us sweet’.

The Business Secretary should be playing up the overall trade imbalance between the UK and Europe: We import more than we export.

Mr Clark and his co-Remainers have done irreparable damage to the negotiating position of this country.

They may argue for the best pro-business deal they can come up with, but they lose sight of the coda: Britain presents the best plan that Parliament can come up with, and the unelected bureaucrats in Brussels will say ‘non, nein’.

He does not get this: Europe will frustrate all proposals, it’s as plain as the nose on my face

have been run over this horrifically.

When will we learn that speed restrictions are there for a reason? Close to a school’s main entrance on Farmcombe Road, 20mph is more than enough. The other entrance in Claremont Road is now in a 20mph zone, so why is this stretch also not covered by a 20mph limit?

In my view, all schools by any road should all be 20mph to ensure the safety of all children. It seems that too often Kent County Council are reluctant and often unwilling to implement these sort of measures, even when it makes perfect common sense. Prevention is better than cure, and no car should need to travel fast though this residential estate.

Cllr Lawrence Heasman, Representative of Pantiles and St Mark’s Ward and he is purblind in ignoring it. It’s not what we want, it’s what Europe will offer: Pretty thin gruel. The time for compromise is over.

John Ward Moorhouse Tunbridge Wells

Brexit is not the will of the people Hugh Masters’ letter on Greg Clark is a mixture of factual inaccuracy and post-referendum Leave propaganda [July 18].

Any referendum is legally advisory and only becomes a part of the Parliamentary process when Parliament chooses. There was never any implicitness to accept the result except that seen

by Leavers after the result.

Mr Masters claims that more than 70 per cent of Tory voters voted Leave in the referendum.

Neither he nor anyone else can possibly know this.

In the referendum, 37 per cent of the electorate voted Leave and 35 per cent Remain. The margin of victory was 3.8 per cent of the voters, while abstentions were some seven times larger.

The turnout of 72 per cent was higher than recent general elections, but significantly lower than the 84 per cent of the Scottish independence referendum, and about the same in immediate post-war general elections.

The Leavers are seeing only what they wish to see in interpreting all this as the alleged ‘will of the people’, and trying to deceive the rest of us into the bargain.

Hugh Masters must be a Trump University alumnus! Why? He seems to have picked up the habit of failing to see or speak the truth.

Greg Clark [MP] has one very big problem, I agree: His constituency voted Remain. Which rather puts the lie to Mr Masters’ Tory voting statistics.

I am not a Tory, but I am a Remaining OAP! Richard Forth Tunbridge Wells

Drama will have us in floods of tears Regarding the flooding, no wonder [Cllrs] Tracy Moore and David Jukes are ‘pressing for an urgent meeting of all parties for a long-term solution’ [July 11].

Their mad theatre proposal is bang in the middle of the flooding area at the bottom of Mount Pleasant and Grove Hill Road. If something isn’t done before the curtain goes up for the first time, the phrase ‘floodlit’ could have a new meaning.

By the way, the panorama of the town dedicated to Thomas Pellet shows a river coming down what looks like the present Frant Road, then swerving left behind The Pantiles and heading onwards in full spate. What happened to this? And is its long forgotten blockage a factor in the present situation?

Incidentally, have people noticed how beautiful the old cinema site is looking this summer, cloaked in the self-seeded waist-high foliage of numerous species.

Surely the hoardings should come down so we can have a proper look?

Graham Richards Tunbridge Wells

High priests who won’t save world Contrary to comments made by Dr Robert Chris [July 11], the promotion of environmentalism beyond any bounds of common sense is the greatest risk to our future.

The Earth has been going through a very cold period for the past few million years, and the whole of man’s recorded history lies within an interglacial of the current Ice Age, which is due to end soon. If glaciers were sentient we could say that they are lying in wait before once again resuming their march from the poles.

The environmentalists talk of what would be very minor increases in temperatures, which should be welcomed, not feared. Life flourishes in warmer climates and plant life benefits from both increased warmth and a higher level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

The high priests of the secular religion of climate change remind me of those medieval Christians who wore hair shirts and indulged in self-flagellation. But unfortunately the backs to be beaten will be ours, as we shiver in unheated homes and watch our industries fail rather than use the fuels available to us.

Colin Bullen Tonbridge

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

Calverley

Observations on life and more important things

SORRY about going missing last week [don’t fib, you did notice he was away]. Anyway, Center Parcs was its usual, hugely expensive ‘holiday camp’ but worth (almost) every penny. What caught Calverley’s eye, though, was the fact that fresh produce on sale at the campsite supermarket in Norfolk had no sell-by dates – unlike other outside stores.

When Calverley queried this while buying packaged grapes, pears, tomatoes, etc, he was informed by a cashier something along the lines: “There is a sell-by date but it’s in code on the package and only we know what it is.” That’s not right, surely? And it must be against regulations? Guidance invited…

STRANGER than fiction, well almost. Mrs C insisted that friends (hers) be entertained at the family home, so a party of people ended up having supper in the kitchen (So Tunbridge Wells!) Fun and confusion ensued because one of the ladies was called Alexa.

That’s the same name as the Amazon ‘robot’ that sits on the marble top and responds to any command once the word ‘Alexa’ is mentioned. Every time the name Alexa was heard, which was often, the robot switched off the music and waited for instructions. Oh how they all laughed.

OFF to the county library. Calverley is trying to save money by not shelling out huge amounts for hardbacks from WH Smith and Waterstones et al. Fascinated by the large print books on offer (he’s almost there, but not quite yet) Calverley asked about reserving other popular offerings and was told: “Of course you can reserve a book. It’s 60p online for each title and 80p if you come into the library and do it.” Really? The fact of the matter is that many ‘older’ people do not have access to the internet. Which surely means such pricing is discriminatory – ageist. Just a thought

HOW could Himself resist popping into a music festival in Dunorlan that was called Pub in the Park? It was like his dream had come true. However, it was not all about drinking, there was a bit of cooking going on and some people were on a stage singing.

Only in Royal Tunbridge Wells, though, could you walk through the gates of a music festival to be greeted by three stands that offered Champagne, Prosecco and Aga cookers.

Chin Chin, readers

Education

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

NEWS

23

EDUCATION Times WITH THE

New grammar annexe marks first anniversary Weald of Kent Grammar’s Sevenoaks site has just completed its first year as an extension of the school in Tonbridge. Eileen Leahy was given a special tour by outgoing Headteacher Maureen Johnson to see if the controversial annexe has been a success THERE were many doubters when the Weald of Kent Grammar School announced in 2015 that it was opening a new ‘annexe’ in Sevenoaks.

With nine miles between the original school’s site in Tonbridge and the new provision on Seal Hollow Road, plenty of people were critical, saying the two educational establishments couldn’t truly function as a whole school.

There were also concerns about how annexe pupils entering into Year 7, the first year at secondary school, would cope with not having any older students to act as mentors or to interact with – but now, ten months on since it opened, the annexe is being hailed as a ‘dynamic’ success by the school.

Construction on the annexe, so called because it’s an extension of an already existing school and not a new school, began in May 2016 with a £16million grant from Kent County Council [KCC].

It is on the old Wildernesse School site, which is also occupied by the recently built Trinity School – a co-ed Christian comprehensive.

SCHOOL SMILES Esther Hardman and some of the girls

The annexe opened its doors to three forms of Year 7 entry – 90 pupils in total – last September and its facilities include a new lecture theatre, 31 classrooms, an all-weather pitch, a café and sixth form provision.

“It’s been a dynamic experience so far,” says the school’s Head of Year 7, Esther Hardman, as we tour around the shiny state-of-the-art building. “This year has been about getting used to what the needs are of setting up a new school and working with the students accordingly.”

When I ask Ms Hardman whether it’s been a challenge getting students to and from the dual sites, she swiftly responds that it hasn’t.

“It’s not that far. The students here in Sevenoaks visit Tonbridge once every two weeks and spend a day there. I’m here Mondays and Fridays and in Tonbridge the rest of the week, and my assistant

THE ANNEXE And the visionary who conceived it, Maureen Johnson Head of Year is here on days I’m not. So actually it’s been working really well.”

Despite the trips up and down the A21, staff are doing everything they can to ensure the schools feel as one entity. “The values go across both sites,” Ms Hardman says. “Ethics,

‘There can be cynicism, but it’s actually working better than people could ever have thought’ uniforms…they get the same provision here as in Tonbridge. We’re providing them with the same varied education. They have the same staff and, yes, they are the first year, but that will build.

“It’s exciting for the girls who are here, and even for me as an adult. It’s a very unique experience.

People don’t realise what a multi-faceted model we have created. There can be so much cynicism, but the annexe is actually working better than people could ever have thought. Teachers, support staff and parents are all working together to make this happen, and I can see the students are really enjoying it.”

The school’s outgoing Headteacher, Maureen Johnson, who will be replaced by Mrs E Bone, agrees that the project she has overseen from start to finish has exceeded all her expectations.

“I wrote the proposal for the Department for

Education, so seeing it going from a piece of paper, a vision of what we wanted to achieve, to now actually having the children here learning and using the facilities, well it’s just amazing.”

When KCC gave the green light it was on the proviso there would be a facility for a girls’ grammar extension and also a boys’ one. And despite the fact the latter – currently still a building site – has not had any interest doesn’t seem to worry Mrs Johnson, who has been at the school for 12 years: “We share a site with Trinity school, and that in itself has been a hidden joy as the children interact together,” she reveals.

Given the annexe is now oversubscribed for the coming academic year, it would seem that the lack of older pupils populating the new school isn’t an issue for parents.

“We agreed with KCC we would take a fourth form of entry at Sevenoaks. We are designed to take 90 children, but this year we are taking 120.

Over at Tonbridge we have six forms of entry.”

Pupils at the school come from far and wide, and during my visit I met girls from places such as South Darenth and Orpington, so the annexe is clearly proving to be a big draw for a wide area.

As for Mrs Johnson’s personal highlight, she says it’s been ‘watching Year 7 settle in’, and she is ‘very pleased’ with how well they have adapted.

“When we opened we approached it very much as ‘let’s get on with the day job’. I didn’t want the girls to be an experiment. One has to pinch oneself every day seeing them so happy.”

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NEWS

Weekly Comment

FOR EVEN MORE NEWS VISIT thekn w.guide

Greg Clark

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Greg Clark was first elected to Parliament as a representative of Tunbridge Wells in 2005. The Conservative MP has since held a number of positions in Government and currently sits as a member of the Cabinet in his capacity as Secretary of State for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy

MP for Tunbridge Wells

We need a solution to flash flooding ON July 5 at 4pm, while the rest of the country baked in the longest heatwave since 1976, the heavens opened over part of the centre of Tunbridge Wells.

The rain was brief – around half an hour – and isolated. Most of the town was completely unaffected, but it was torrential.

Within a few minutes Nevill Street – at the bottom of Frant Road and Warwick Park – and the entrance to The Pantiles looked like a surging river. Nearby properties were flooded.

However brief and unseasonal, this flash flood was not, in recent years, unusual.

In fact sudden floods occurred last July, as well as in 2015 and 2012, entering homes, and ruining the stock of businesses. What was once considered by the Environment Agency to be one in 50 year event, now seem to be happening most years. This requires a change to how we protect the most vulnerable areas from weather that seems common rather than exceptional.

A year ago, following the flash flood at the time, I convened a meeting of local businesses, landlords and residents with the principal authorities involved in flood protection or response – the Environment Agency, Southern Water, Kent County Council (KCC) and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC).

That meeting set up a series of short and longterm improvements that were required to make the low-lying areas of Tunbridge Wells more resilient to flash floods. It also established a Flood Forum, a group which brought together the authorities and residents.

Deluge KCC cleared drains and gulleys in roads around Nevill Street and has put them on a six monthly cleansing cycle. Landlords in The Pantiles – the Nevill Estate and Targetfollow – surveyed and cleaned out the drains on their land. Compared to last time, the water drained away much more quickly rather than standing for hours.

Remarkably the Jazz on the Pantiles went ahead as planned just hours after the deluge.

Some properties had installed floodgates by doorways which held back the waters in some cases. That is of no comfort to businesses who lost their stock and their ability to trade for the second time in less than a year.

The intensity of the downpour – as the astonishing photos show – was too great for the drainage system to cope with at its height.

On Friday, KCC, Southern Water and TWBC met with me in the Town Hall where they set out

the next steps. These include a programme of drains clearance across a wider area and at more frequent intervals by KCC – beefed up by the removal of parked vehicles by TWBC. During August major works by Southern Water will take place to relieve pressure on the drainage system by The Pantiles by sending surface water from a number of drains directly into the culverted River Grom, rather than, as now, into the foul water system.

During these works a CCTV survey will take place of the adequacy of the Grom Culvert using access from Nevill Street – this is to allow an

Howard Porter Chair of Tonbridge & Malling Green Party

Planning does not have to be like this YOU may or, more likely, may not know that Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council is currently preparing its Local Plan which will determine how the borough develops until 2031.

If you have heard about this at all, the chances are that it is the impact of large numbers of houses, especially, on green sites, that has come to your attention.

In all fairness, the numbers (a net requirement of 6,534 homes) are not determined by the council but are a result of a formula imposed by central government and the locations are the result of a centrally imposed “call for sites” process.

Planning is complicated and made even more so by the fact that the council needs to beat a government deadline to get its plan in by the end of this year or face an uplift of 23 per cent in the number of houses.

I agree with the council that this is simply not achievable. However, there are many features of the planning process and the way Tonbridge & Malling have handled it that we should all be concerned about.

We need more homes but under the current local plan we have seen thousands of new homes built but prices have continued to rise and the

assessment of whether it can be used to carry more surface drainage water.

Southern Water also committed to assessing whether the local pumping station, on Warwick Park, is performing adequately.

New development is, of course, a further source of pressure on the drainage system.

TWBC now require as a planning condition new development on previously used sites to make a net reduction to surface water flood risk.

And it is essential that any new development is accompanied by new investment wherever it is needed in the foul water system, in addition to these actions to deal with rainfall – something that was emphasised at the meeting in relation to new development in Paddock Wood and elsewhere across the borough.

In the autumn Southern Water will publish its Drainage Area Plan for South Tunbridge Wells, setting out its plans for the long term management of flood risk.

The events of recent years show that what might have once been a notional risk is now an almost annual reality for residents and businesses and it is essential that, beyond short term measures, we can have confidence in the long term that a town founded on its waters does not jeopardise businesses and residents.

Howard Porter has a background as a teacher in further and higher education and in the graphic design and advertising industry, where he was a founding partner in a full service design company for more than 25 years. In addition to his role as Chair of Tonbridge & Malling Green Party, he also chairs Tonbridge Town Team and is a board member of the Kent Farmers’ Market Association

A BETTER FUTURE? Tonbridge Greens are questioning the local plan policy

waiting list grows - it now stands at 1,145 families.

What’s more, we are now seeing opportunistic landowners and developers putting in applications on sensitive sites, exploiting the current situation.

Broken The housing market is broken but so is the planning system. It does not seem capable of delivering the homes we need. There are no social houses for rent included in the new plan and schemes with an allocation of ‘affordable’ housing, set at 80 per cent of market rate, do nothing to help local people on modest incomes. The housing crisis is set to continue.

Planning should be an open and transparent process, involving all those who make up a community. Unfortunately, this is not the way this local plan is being developed. It is being rushed through. For understandable reasons perhaps but full, open and transparent consultation is still essential.

For instance, we cannot see the public comments made on the earliest iteration of the plan,

The Way Forward, so have no idea to whose views the council is giving greatest weight. It certainly does not appear to be listening closely enough to those of us who are concerned about tackling climate change, providing sustainable, low carbon (and cheap to run) new homes or ensuring we have the infrastructure to serve tens of thousands of new residents.

Despite all the constraints on local authorities

there is good practice out there and a positive approach to planning is possible. Crucial decisions that will affect all our lives for years to come can be made in a spirit of openness and partnership but, sadly, Tonbridge & Malling has chosen to manage expectations and push through the new plan with the minimum of scrutiny. Quite simply, this isn’t good enough and I think people deserve better.

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

yourh me INSPIRATION FOR MOVING

Full of Eastern promise and a Moroccan twist Page 34

AND IMPROVING

AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ

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

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HALL HOUSE BEAUTY IN HAWKHURST

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OAST WITH THE MOST IN IDE HILL

50

FAMOUS ORIGINS IN NETHERFIELD

55

SHADY WAYS TO AVOID THE HOT SUN

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thekn w.guide

To Suit Your Budget

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Your at-a-glance guide to

DOWER HOUSE CRESCENT BIDBOROUGH GUIDE PRICE

£995,000

UNDER £300,000

n Bedroom

UNDER £400,000

n Bathroom

ST JOHN’S ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

n Spacious bathroom

HOPGARDEN ROAD TONBRIDGE

n Front and rear gardens

GUIDE PRICE

n Space for bike storage

£228,500

n Parking space for ‘delivery drivers’ and electric point for car charging

n Luxuriously appointed converted apartment with private front door n Reception with L–shaped kitchen area and door to courtyard

n Patio

CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

GUIDE PRICE

£375,000-£380,000 n Semi-detached bungalow n Lounge/diner with doors to garden n Kitchen with serving hatch n 2 bedrooms

n Gated driveway providing parking n Garage and timber store shed n The owners had new tripleglazed windows and doors fitted in 2013 CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www. bracketts.co.uk

To Suit Your Budget

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

thekn w.guide

27

great properties by price range…

UNDER £500,000 BEAULIEU ROAD, TONBRIDGE

GUIDE PRICE

£450,000-£475,000 n Chalet-style semi-detached house n Lounge n Dining room n Study/playroom n Kitchen with doors to garden and garage (existing garage has been converted into a family/utility room) n Master bedroom with en-suite shower n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Gardens with patio and timber store CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www. bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £600,000 ALBION ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£550,000 n Victorian semi-detached house in St James’ School catchment area n Lounge with Victorian fireplace n Dining room with door to garden n Kitchen n Cloakroom n Family bathroom n 3 bedrooms n Loft space n Front and rear gardens with patio CONTACT Firefly Properties Paddock Wood 01892 838363 www.fireflyproperties.co.uk

UNDER £1MILLION DOWER HOUSE CRESCENT BIDBOROUGH

GUIDE PRICE

£995,000 n Detached family home n Reception room with feature fireplace n Dining Room n Bespoke painted kitchen with eight-ring range cooker n Breakfast room n Cloakroom n Study with cast iron fireplace

UNDER £700,000 MEREWORTH ROAD, TUNBRIDGE WELLS n Master bedroom with en-suite shower n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Loft n Integral garage n Front and rear gardens CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www. bracketts.co.uk

GUIDE PRICE

£600,000-£625,000 n Victorian end-of-terrace house n Reception Room with wood-burner n Further reception room with wood-

burner and French windows n Cloakroom n Extended kitchen/dining room with

bespoke units and doors to terrace n 5 bedrooms n Bathroom n Front and rear gardens with terrace CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

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yourh me

Sawyers

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

AT A GLANCE

Beautifully renovated Wealden hall house enjoys benefit of an annexe and barn with planning

SAWYERS HORNS HILL, HAWKHURST n extended and extensively renovated former Wealden hall house dating back to the 17th century n Cranbrook School catchment area n Period features include beams and inglenook fireplaces n Reception hall n Drawing room n Dining hall n Snug/TV room n Study n Family room n Kitchen/breakfast room with gas Aga n Laundry room, boot room and cellar n Cloakroom n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, dressing room and balcony n 5 further bedrooms (2 with en-suite facilities) n Family bathroom n Gardens including terrace with views n Detached double garage with attached tractor store n Energy-saving solar panels and ground source heat pump n Annexe with studio, kitchen and shower room n Detached period barn with planning to convert to 3-bedroom ancillary accommodation n Approximately 2.35 acres

GUIDE PRICE

ÂŁ1,595,000

Available for sale through Hamptons International Tunbridge Wells 01892 516611 www.hamptons.co.uk

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yourh me

The Oast House

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

AT A GLANCE

THE OAST HOUSE NIGHTINGALE LANE IDE HILL, NR SEVENOAKS n Single roundel oast and stone barn with a wealth of character features n Edge-of-village location with superb countryside views n Sitting room with wood-burning stove and doors to terrace n Dining room within roundel n Kitchen with part-vaulted ceiling and stable door to garden

Oast house boasting a rural outlook over Montreal Estate‌ and a Jacuzzi

n Cloakroom n Master bedroom within roundel with en-suite shower room and access to exterior staircase, plus spiral staircase to dressing room n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Landscaped south-facing garden overlooking the Montreal Estate n Garden with decked terrace and separate terrace with Jacuzzi hot tub n Summerhouse n Gated driveway offering parking n Detached garage

ÂŁ1,175,000 Available for sale through Savills Sevenoaks 01732 789700 www.savills.co.uk

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thekn w.guide

Interiors

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

East meets West: Here’s how to

work this season’s travel-inspired décor Personal style knows no boundaries…

Gabrielle Fagan explores clever ways to conjure a faraway feel right now

D

ECOR has always been influenced by looks from around the world, and currently all eyes are turned to the East.

You can choose from Chinese style – renowned for its glossy, lacquered furniture, delicate patterns and glowing colours – or sultrier Moroccan ‘souk’ style, with its earthy shades enlivened by Moorish patterns on tiles and fabrics.

“Both the interiors and fashion worlds are looking East this season, with the emergence of some distinctively Oriental designs,” says Nadia McCowan Hill, Wayfair’s resident style advisor.

“You can make a style statement – choose a chinoiserie-inspired wallpaper featuring anything from ornate dragons to delicate cherry blossoms. A hand-painted lacquered cabinet emblazoned with birds and butterflies makes a strong focal piece, or go for furniture with bamboo-style legs, your passport to the season’s most exotic trend.

“If muted neutrals and a chilled

vibe is more to your taste, conjure your own Moroccan sanctuary,” she suggests. “Shades can range from rich golden browns to golden desert sand, but red, orange, deep blues and greens also feature in intricate tiled patterns.

“With low seating, grouped around a coffee table, rugs, wall hangings and an abundance of lanterns, you’ll capture the essence of souk style.”

LET EAST MEET WEST “In bold contrast to the understated, our Eastern Palace decor collection is a grand alternative to minimalism,” says Jason Masterton-Copley, Head of Design at Very. “An arresting mix of oriental prints and Persian motifs come together with velvet textures, fretwork and opulent metallics to demonstrate that more can be more.

“Think rich dark tones, such as reds, deep violets and pinks, teals, chocolate and cherry, creating a look of extravagance in the home,” he adds.

“Pinky peach and dusted mint stand out as ideal accents for soft

furnishings, as do blossom and oriental bird prints, which are all paired with warm gold or copper to complement the look.”

Symmetry is a key principle in Eastern-style rooms; a pair of objects is visually pleasing to the eye. Create a chic feature corner with two Tiffany Fabric Accent Chairs – currently reduced to £119 from £249 and available in a range of sumptuous colours – and accessorise with Easternstyle cushions and an Ideal Home Scratched Copper Decorative Vase, £22.99, all from Very.

MAKE MOROCCAN MAGIC “Moroccan-inspired homeware is perfect for adding a dash of flavour to an interior. Embracing a kaleidoscope of colour and ornate detailing, it’s a maximalist’s dream,” says McCowan Hill.

“Channel the bright Bohemian qualities of a Marrakech souk by opting for an abundance of cushions embellished with tassels and sequins, or opt for textured Berber-style rugs to add a luxe layer underfoot,” she suggests.

“Twinkling lanterns, tapestry-style wall hangings and ornately carved furniture are other hallmarks of this bold, beautiful and distinctly global trend.”

CREATING A CHARACTER CORNER It’s simple with a copper vase and twin chairs

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yourh me

Darwell Hill

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Designed in 1926 by Brighton architect Leslie MacDonald ‘Max’ Gill for Harold Heal of Heals of London

AT A GLANCE DARWELL HILL NETHERFIELD n Drawing room with open fireplace

Delightful 1920s Sussex country house in the Arts & Crafts style – and perfect for equestrians

n Dining room with fireplace and built-in period range n Sitting room with open fireplace n Study with door to garden n Music room n Family room/snug n 23ft bespoke kitchen/breakfast room plus utility room & cold store n Cloakroom n Principal bedroom with en-suite dressing area and shower room plus views towards the sea n 5 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Attic rooms n Park-like grounds and woodland, including walled garden, ponds with waterfalls, workshop, mower/tractor store & greenhouse n American-style barn incorporating four Cheval Liberte stables plus tack room n 3 fenced fields n Driveway with electric gates n Planning for triple garage with room over n In total about 21 acres, with direct access to unlimited riding trails

GUIDE PRICE

£1,850,000

Available for sale through Savills Cranbrook 01580 720161 www.savills.co.uk

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yourh me

Advertising

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Gardening

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Too hot to sit in the garden?

Here are 7 expert tips for creating a shady sanctuary WHILE the mercury continues to rise, a shady spot in your outdoor space provides a welcoming retreat, whether under a canopy of trees or a pergola adorned with climbers. Even just a bench sheltered from the sun by colourful bloom, can provide a comfortable and pretty shaded stop.

And while your summer bedding coninues to bloom during the heatwave, lush, deep green foliage plants and other cooling specimens will be thriving in the shade

thekn w

55

Plant pro Mark Sage reveals to Hannah Stephenson how to keep things cool outdoors

nitrogen fertilisers, as you want to promote shade-tolerant plant growth and these fertilisers rely on sunlight. Instead, use sulphate of potash, which has a very high potassium content, or wood ash from a bonfire.

4

FIND OUT THE PH

Use a soil testing kit to check the acidity or alkalinity of your soil because, in particularly acid or alkaline soils, plants may not be able to use all the available nutrients and minerals while in others, the nutrients may have been removed. It will also help you choose the right plants for the soil. Plants which are unfussy about the soil include fatsias, astilbes, astrantia and many ferns. Acid-loving plants can do well in shade include rhododendrons, azaleas and hydrangea

5

ALLOW ROOTS SOME SPACE

When you’re planting in the shade, you need to ensure the roots of the new plants go down into cool, moist soil. Fork the base of each planting hole. Even if your plants are tolerant to dry shade, you still need to water them. Give them a good soak before and after you’ve planted them and keep watering them for the first year until they’re established.

When you’ve planted, mulch the area with a layer of homemade leaf mould or rotted garden compost to retain moisture, prevent weeds, and protect the roots when it’s cold.

1

CHANGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Shade can come from buildings, trees, fences and dominant evergreen plants.

Change your expectations of shady planting and think about foliage, form, texture, muted colours and bold drifts.

Many plants do well in shade, as the soil in shady areas can retain moisture and provide ideal growing conditions. One of the joys of planting in the shade is luscious foliage. Rich foliage can be enhanced by adding splashes of colour, with shade-tolerant Busy Lizzies, stocks, violas and nicotiana.

2

MANAGE DRY SHADE

Dry shade can be a challenge, but it’s not an impossible growing condition for plants. The main problem is the lack of light and moisture.

Dry shade can often be found near trees, as their roots take moisture from the soil, as well as at the foot of walls or directly under roofs.

Good plants for under trees include Camellia japonica ‘Adolphe Audusson’, Viburnum davidii, Fuchsia magellanica var. molinae, Fritillaria meleagris and Iris foetidissima.

For plants to thrive in dry shade, add as much organic material to the area as possible, such as homemade leaf mould, compost or soil conditioner. This will help retain moisture and improve the soil condition. Organic material will also improve the soil structure and increase the amount of good bacteria and organisms in it.

These break down plant material and help to build up the amount of nutrients naturally available in the soil.

You’ll need to use a fork to work the organic material into the ground, and water the area afterwards. Some plants that require a continually moist soil won’t do well in dry shade, so it’s important - as with any problem area in the garden - that you do your research on the plant before planting. Good plants for dry shade include Lamium maculatum ‘White Nancy’, Dryopteris affinis ‘Angustata Crispa’, Viburnum tinus, Sarcococca confusa, Asplenium scolopendrium ‘Angustatum’.

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USE THE RIGHT FERTILISERS Using a fertiliser will help add nutrients directly to the soil in a form that plant roots can absorb quickly. Don’t use high

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USE WATER TO CHILL OUT

If you have a pond, it shouldn’t be completely in the shade as it will just go stagnant, but subtle green marginal planting with touches of colour from plants such as astilbes and irises will give the area a cool, calming aura. Good plants around ponds in partial shade include Water horsetail (Equisetum fluviatile), dogwood (Cornus alba), Siberian iris ‘Caesar’s Brother’ (Iris sibirica), water forget-menot (Myosotis scorpioides) and yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus).

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USE CLIMBERS TO CREATE SHADE

If you have a structure such as arch or pergola, grow climbers over it in the sun, which will provide you with shade underneath. Climbers which grow over a freestanding structure in the sun often do better than when planted against a wall or fence because there is no restriction of light.

A combination of climbers which flower at different times will provide colour to your garden for longer and create an attractive mix. For big structures, you could train roses, wisteria, laburnum and late-flowering clematis.

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

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

A noteworthy discovery

ARTS & CULTURE | LIFE & STYLE |

FOOD & DRINK | MOTORING

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How King George IV’s piano ended up in Tunbridge Wells Page 59

STEEL YOURSELF

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SUMMERTIME DRINKING

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FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

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Music Maestro See André Rieu perform live Page 58

KWIK CRICKET SUCCESS

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arts

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Arts & Culture

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Musical masterpiece from Maastricht…

MUSIC, MAESTRO, PLEASE: André Rieu’s concerts are legendary

The King of the Waltz – violinist extraordinaire André Rieu – famously hosts a summer concert every year in his home city in The Netherlands, and it’s being screened locally this weekend

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NE of cinema’s biggest music events is the annual André Rieu concert performed as a grand spectacle in his birthplace of Maastricht. His live performances are always nothing short of energetic and festive, not to mention enormously popular – last year’s

concert alone grossed over £1.45million in one weekend, beating several Hollywood blockbusters.

And this weekend his 2018 concert ‘Amore – My Tribute To Love’ will be screened on Saturday and Sunday [July 28 & 29] at both Trinity Theatre in the town centre and the Odeon, Knights Park.

With album and DVD sales of more than 40 million worldwide, André Rieu is the world’s leading pop classical artist and consistently appears on the worldwide list of highest-grossing touring artists.

Spectacular His Johann Strauss Orchestra, which boasts up to 60 musicians, began in 1987, and for over three decades his spectacular live shows have gained him hundreds of thousands of fans all over the world.

Dubbed the King of the Waltz, the Dutchman’s summer concerts are certainly a sight to behold. Set against the incredible backdrop of the medieval town square, they see fans come annually from all corners of the globe to watch André perform with his orchestra, which also includes sopranos, tenors, and some very special guests.

The concerts are always packed full of humour, fun and emotion for all ages.

‘Amore – My Tribute to Love’, is Rieu’s love song for music, for his family and for his Johann Strauss Orchestra.

The concert follows on from the release of Rieu’s album Amore last year, which features his own versions of some of the most popular love songs – from both the contemporary and classical realms of music.

“Music is, as they say, the food of love,” declares the passionate violinist.

“That is what this show is all about, all types of love.”

And to make things just that little bit extra special there will be the opportunity for British fans watching in cinemas across the UK to have a personal dedication read out by Mr Rieu.

“We thought what a wonderful way it would be to celebrate this concert with my British fans by inviting them to submit their dedications for their loved ones, which I shall read out before a very special song in Maastricht that they will see wherever they may be watching across the UK.” So if you want to be in with the chance of André Rieu playing a waltz in honour of you, then you simply need to send your details to the address in the box and keep

Arts & Culture

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

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A noteworthy and historical discovery The Piano Shop has had its fair share of intriguing discoveries but the latest one boasts a fascinating royal connection. Owner Nigel Scaife tells Eileen Leahy more about it…

your fingers crossed that it will be you he says a personal ‘hello’ to in one of the screenings, which will be beamed into over 500 cinemas nationwide.

Cinema audiences are also treated to some very special behind-the-scenes extras.

Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins will host the concert presentation, interviewing fans and sharing the joyous atmosphere that bursts right through the cinema screen – as well as catching André for an exclusive chat the moment he steps off stage.

André Rieu is very excited to bring another of his memorable concerts to UK viewers, commenting: “To be able to bring the concert from my beautiful hometown of Maastricht direct to cinemas for my fans in the UK every year is such a thrill!

“My orchestra and I get so excited about our romantic open-air shows. It’s just magical to bring it to the big screen.

“I invite you to join me and my orchestra once again for a fantastic adventure filled with wonderful music and, of course, amore.”

André Rieu’s 2018 Maastricht Concert ‘Amore – My Tribute to Love’, distributed by Piece of Magic Entertainment, will screen nationally in the UK on Saturday 28 July at 7pm and Sunday 29 July at 3pm. Find Your nearest cinema at: www.andreincinemas.com To submit your dedication, visit www.andreincinemas.com/dedication

PIANO expert Nigel Scaife’s business – The Piano Shop in Eridge – is described by his customers as an ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ as it is so full of all types of pianos – modern uprights, vintage baby grands, digital varieties, and rare finds from some of the world’s best known brands, including Bechstein, Bluthner and Steinway. It is a veritable treasure trove for any pianist or an aspiring one.

“Having a good piano to play and practise on is vital to the enjoyment of making music and to progress as a musician,” declares Nigel, and this is obviously what has fuelled his passion for both playing and also collecting pianos over the years.

Royal He has had some rather interesting historical discoveries, too, including a pre-second world war Steinway piano with an envelope containing an assortment of fascinating musical memorabilia.

But his most recent find was the extraordinary Broadwood grand which was originally delivered to King George IV at the Royal Pavilion Brighton on December 21, 1821.

Nigel came across it at the Colt Collection auction in Canterbury last month: “I was thrilled to be able to buy this instrument and still can’t quite believe that I have the responsibility of making sure it is restored in the best and most historically informed way possible,” he says.

“This is a remarkable instrument made of solid rosewood and profusely inlaid with brass decoration. It cost the King £165 guineas – a small fortune at the time, even for a monarch!

George was a generous patron of the arts and an enthusiastic musician himself, so I’m sure it would have been played a great deal in its early years at the Royal Pavilion.”

Nigel adds that it is ‘very similar’ to the piano Thomas Broadwood gave to Beethoven in 1818. “It is also one of the last pianos built by Broadwood & Sons that doesn’t have any iron to strengthen the frame,” he explains. “This makes it perfect for playing any classical repertoire up to and including Beethoven’s late piano sonatas in an authentic manner. It is the quintessential English fortepiano.”

So how did the piano come into Charles F. Colt’s possession? “He bought it during the second World War for £10 from Sebastian Morley, of harp fame,” reveals Nigel.

He goes on to say that Colt may have got it playing ‘reasonably well’ at some point, but it will take some further restoration.

“Times have changed, and the restoration

techniques used in his day are not necessarily those which are now considered historically informed or ‘best practice’. We’re going to take a ‘restorative conservation’ approach. ‘This restoration project will probably take several years to complete, but to give this remarkable piano a new lease of life will be hugely rewarding.”

As well as the physical restoration, Nigel says he is looking forward to finding out more about the Broadwood grand’s journey from the court of King George IV to his workshop in Eridge.

“Its story will be fascinating to research as we know that it was taken to Windsor Castle in the late 1820s. But how long did it remain there? Who owned it once it had left its royal home? There are so many discoveries to be made!”

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thekn w.guide

Going Out

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

going ut Seven days of activities at a glance

By Eileen Leahy DON’T MISS THE WEDDING FAIR At The Spa Hotel

WEDNESDAY The EM Forster Theatre welcomes the stage version of Tiddler and Other Classic Tales by favourite children’s author Julia Donaldson today at 11am and 2pm. This fun live show is bound to be a hit with members of all the family. Tickets cost £12 (adults) and £10 (children). Book on 01732 304241 or visit www.boxoffice.tonbridge-school.co.uk Famed military vintage festival The War and Peace Revival is being held at The Hop Farm all week until Sunday, showcasing the fascinating history of the British armed forces. Military

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

For information on how to book tickets call 01258 858448 or 01258 857700, or go to www.warandpeacerevival.com Mark Steele brings his sell-out show Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright to Hever’s open-air theatre this evening at 7.30pm. Tickets to see the successful comedian, who has presented programmes on BBC Radio 4 and BBC Two and also pens a column for the Independent newspaper, cost from £15. www.heverfestival.co.uk

THURSDAY

Bewl Water’s popular children’s camps are on once again for the summer holidays. So if you find it a challenge to keep your little ones occupied, then this club really steps it up a gear courtesy of its exciting outdoor activities aimed to keep youngsters fit and entertained and to help them make new friends. Full-day activities run from 8.30am until 5pm and cost from £37 per child.

Half-day activities run from 8.30am until 1pm and cost £19.50 per child. For further information on timings, see www.bewlwater.co.uk The Spa Hotel will be holding a special wedding showcase this evening from 5.30pm until 7.30pm, so if you’re thinking of getting married soon then make sure you go along and meet their wedding co-ordinators, and see their rooms dressed up for a big day. To register your interest, email: events@spahotel.co.uk If your little ones are already on holiday, then you’ll be pleased to hear that the popular Maize Maze at Penshurst Place runs throughout the summer until September 2. it’s open from 11am until 6pm (last entry is at 5pm), and this year’s theme is time travel, so the maze has been designed to resemble a clock face. There’s also an optional new shorter route to explore… To find out more, visit www.penshurstplace.com Jazz on The Pantiles is still in full summer swing every Thursday evening. To make it a really special event, why not avail yourself of One Warwick Park Hotel’s Bubbles and Burger deal, which costs just £10 per person? For more details, see www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

FRIDAY There will be a fun floral crafting session entitled Blooming Marvellous running from 10am until 1.30pm at the Hub in Grosvenor & Hilbert Park today. So why not go along and hear how you can plant and grow wild flowers successfully, and create pretty works of art using them, too? This is a drop-in event suitable for all ages and a donation of £3 is suggested towards materials.

Over at the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge this week you can see a performance of Graham Linehan’s

The Ladykillers. Directed by Sandra Barfield, it’s the tale of a gang planning a heist who end up posing as amateur musicians and renting rooms from a sweet old lady called Mrs Wilberforce – but is she really as docile as she seems? Go along to find out. Tickets cost £10 and can be booked via www.oastheatre.com Long-awaited sequel Incredibles 2 is being screened all week at the Moonlight Drive-In Cinema at The Hop Farm. The family with special elasticated powers face their biggest challenge yet – who will spring into action to save the day?

Tickets cost £25 per vehicle. For timings, see www.moonlightcinema.com

SATURDAY The fundraising team for Guide Dogs’ Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells branch are holding their summer fete at Tonbridge Castle today. According to the organisers it promises to be a great day out for the family, with many traditional stalls, a raffle and a football shootout as well as a fun dog show STEEL YOURSELVES… Comic Mark Steel says Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright at Hever

Going Out

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

THE HISTORY BOYS Hear Tudor tales at Hever

will be accompanied by local musician Tom Carradine. See www.heverfestival.co.uk Every summer, popular conductor André Rieu puts on his ever-popular Maastricht concert, and this year’s is called Amore, My Tribute To Love. It will be screened at Trinity Theatre today at 3pm and 7pm, and also at the Odeon. See our special feature on pages 58-59.

SUNDAY

and special display from the Medway Guide Dog puppy team. It runs from 11am until 3pm, and more information can be obtained by emailing: guidedogsttw@gmail.com Closer to home, the ever popular annual Pantiles Vintage Fair is back this weekend. On today and tomorrow, it’s a must visit for anyone who’s a fan of retro fashion, unique buys to enhance your home and collectable items, including rare books and vintage cars.

There’s another weekend of jousting at Hever Castle to enjoy. Visitors are welcome to see ‘Henry VIII’ and ‘Anne Boleyn’ and watch the Knights of Royal England battle it out on horseback. Entrance is free with the normal admission price. See www.hevercastle.co.uk Staying at Hever, there’s a Tudor Tales event on all this weekend, too. Families are invited to step back in time and experience what life was like when English swordsmen ruled the battlefield.

You’ll also have the chance to wander among the tents and immerse yourself in medieval times as re-enactors demonstrate authentic Tudor crafts, armour-making, cookery and games.

Also this weekend, you can catch a performance of Pygmalion at Hever’s open-air theatre, while on Sunday The Bailey Dolls hit the stage at 8pm with their Blue Skids and Blue Birds concert, and

The Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery is now exhibiting Staffages: 2018 – a collection of photographic works which highlights the connections between museum object, site and viewer. The work, by the artist Steffi Klenz, is the result of her having spent time at the venue looking at its artefacts and architecture. The exhibition runs until Sunday September 8.

During the summer months, Penshurst Place will be hosting a fun day of activities every Sunday, which includes falconry displays courtesy of The Hawking Centre. And Aardvark Productions make a welcome return to entertain children and adults alike with their pantomimes, with a brand new panto in the garden. This year, Mr Toad learns the importance of banning plastic and how important it is to look after the environment. There will also be lots of crafting to keep you busy.

For more information, visit www.penshurstplace.com

MONDAY The free photographic exhibition entitled Remarkable Characters of Tunbridge Wells is still on at Woods on The Pantiles. On 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 of the area’s most ‘remarkable characters’.

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PICK OF THE WEEK: Kids in Pyramids

Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells Saturday July 28-August 27

TUESDAY

There will be another floral crafting session at the Hub in Grosvenor & Hilbert Park today between 10am and 4pm, which will be fun for youngsters. If you go along to this drop-in event you will have the opportunity to make your own flower crowns using the park’s wild flowers and willows. Each session lasts 90 minutes and costs £4 per child. It is suitable for children aged four and over, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential. Please email: steff.dagorne@tunbridgewells.gov.uk Trinity Theatre will be screening a live exhibition of Vincent Van Gogh’s most famous works at 8pm. The virtual exhibition showcases Van Gogh’s iconic works and features exclusive interviews with the curatorial team at the Van Gogh Museum. Tickets cost £11 per person.

FLOWER POWER Try floral crafting at Grosvenor & Hilbert Park

This summer children will be able to go on an Egyptian adventure at Royal Victoria Place in Tunbridge Wells thanks to a free interactive and educational experience which is on from Saturday July 28 until Monday August 27.

This experience is a first for the shopping centre as it has not appeared anywhere else so far in England.

Children can learn about life in ancient Egypt by dressing up, discovering the pyramids and digging for artefacts in the sand.

The Egyptian Adventure Tour starts at the Great Pyramid of Giza, located on level 1 of the centre, opposite M&S. Each tour will take 30 minutes, and on completion every child will receive a free personalised certificate to take home. There’s a maximum of 25 children per tour session.

There will also be lots of educational activities located throughout the shopping centre, including the Egyptian God’s Puzzle, the Mummy, Pharaoh’s Throne, Sarcophagus Selfies and the Giza Plateau.

Full event details and times are available at royalvictoriaplace.com

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thekn w.guide

Going Out

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE The Pantiles, doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites www.pdag.co.uk & www.thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Rob Picazo, Arcelia, Steffan James, The Breretons Friday Blues Brothers Little Brother Saturday Closed for Private Party Sunday Emily Izen Row, Imy Lawrie, Emanuel Fanthome-Hodgson, Jack Knight

THE TRADING POST 5 Culverden Down, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Wednesday Lyrae

live music

THE PANTILES

With Paul Dunton

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

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HIS week is full of live music.

Tonight [Wednesday] you can catch popular local acts Rob Picazo, Arcelia, Steffan James and The Breretons at The Grey Lady, while the Lyrae Duo are at The Trading Post. On Thursday, the superb Project 5 play Jazz on The Pantiles.

Friday night includes The Skatonics at The Forum, Sophie Mullan and Acoustic Atlas at The Beau Nash, guitarist and singer Stuart Evans at The Spa Hotel, Blues Brothers Little Brothers at The Grey Lady and Bombay Monkey at St John’s Yard.

On Saturday night you can catch Sean Fennessey & Friends at The Bedford and Spoilage at The Royal Oak. Also, The Weight of Atlas are at

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

The Sussex Arms Basement, while G.E.M return to The Beau Nash for a whole day’s worth of funky tunes.

Alex Wallace and Carl Quinn headline at St John’s Yard alongside Kung Fu Slipper. It’s also the final fundraiser at Trinity Theatre for August’s Local & Live Festival , with Orfila, Shep Sheperd and my orchestra.

On Sunday, The Grey Lady welcomes Emily Izen Row, Imy Lawrie, Emanuel Fanthome-Hodgson and Jack Knight.

For fans of Neil Diamond, there is a great tribute act at The Assembly Hall. The music continues at St John’s Yard from lunchtime till late with We are Bandicoot, Jem & Paul, TW3, Holly Stanford, James Mcmaster, Robyn Turl and Chris Parris.

The Bandstand Music from 8pm-10pm (donations welcomed) Thursday Jazz with Project 5 Saturday Soultrain

Event information at www.twforum.co.uk Friday The Skatonics Saturday Tim Cullen Presents: Switch, Strickland, Jakson, RY.NO, FAZ B2B, The Music Therapist Sunday Sunday Sessions (1pm start)

Bombay Monkey

ST JOHN’S YARD

TRINITY THEATRE

St John’s Road. Open all day, free entry Music from early afternoon till late Friday Bombay Monkey, Laky, Jem & Paul (8pm owards) Saturday Alex Wallace & Carl Quinn, kung Fu Slipper (3pm-10pm) Sunday We are Bandicoot, Jem & Paul, TW3, Holly Stanford, James Mcmaster, Robyn Turl, Chris Parris

Church Road. Concert information and tickets at www.trinitytheatre.net Saturday Local & Live Sessions: Orfila, Dave ‘Shep’ Sheperd, The Paul Dunton Orchestra

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim. Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Friday Sophie Mullan, Acoustic Atlas, Soul Night Saturday G.E.M

THE SPA HOTEL Mount Ephraim Open all day, free entry, live music from 8pm10pm at Zagotas Bar. Booking advised on 01892 520331 Friday Local & Live presents: Stuart Evans

THE BEDFORD PUB

Holly Stanford

2 High Street Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Sean Fennessey & Friends

THE SUSSEX ARMS (BASEMENT) Sussex Mews. Music from 8.30pm Event details and tickets at www.twforum.co.uk Saturday The Weight Of Atlas, Arkdown, Saramona

THE ROYAL OAK PUB Prospect Road. Open all day, free entry Music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Spoilage

THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE Crescent Road Performance details and tickets at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Sunday A Celebration of Neil Diamond

THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday Dave & Sophie

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Food & Drink

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

ONE FROM SEVENTEEN Brought to you by Seventeen, One Warwick Park Hotel The Food and Beverage manager at SEVENTEEN, Sime Ercegovic (below), has an extensive wine knowledge which often impresses guests. Here we talk to Sime to find out some of his personal recommendations and wine pairings…

What would be your choice of wine from the menu to enjoy on a summer afternoon?

Nyetimber Classic Cuvee Multi-Vintage – a very fine and elegant sparkling wine from Sussex. It’s as good as most non-vintage Champagnes.

than the recommended temperature – i.e. below 13 °C.

And a good wine to complement a succulent steak?

Bold red wines – think Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz – are always a good match. From our wine list I’d recommend Gouguenheim Flores del Valle Blue Melosa, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina, 2013. It’s 100% Malbec that ages for 12 months first in oak barrels and then at least 12 months in bottle before its release.

Where is an underrated wine region that more people should know about? I come from Croatia where many world relevant wines are produced but because of small production and poor marketing they are not known worldwide. Dalmatia, Croatia’s warmest and sunniest region is where Plavac Mali, a famous red wine, comes from.

Among specialists it’s highly recognised but I’ve noticed that here in England it fails to find its place on wine lists which is a shame.

Which tends to be the most popular wine choice at this time of year? Rosé of course! And from our wine list I’d recommend Whispering Angel, La Rosé de Sophie, Miraval.

What desserts would you recommend to go with a dessert wine? There’s only one rule: wine needs to be sweeter than the dessert. For example a lighter dessert wine such as Recioto di Soave works best with lighter chocolate desserts,

And your all-time favourite wine pairing? It has to be vintage port with blue cheese such as Stilton, Gorgonzola or Roquefort.

while richer ones such as Tokaji and fortified wines work with darker, denser ones.

What is your ‘go to’ bottle of wine? I don’t have a favourite as such but whenever I can I like to try new wine and compare it with what I have tasted so far. This year some of my preferred choices have come from Domaine Hugel, Alsace in France. They do very impressive Gewurtztraminer and Riesling varieties.

Do you have any wine pairing guilty pleasures? Not if we talk about pairing but I like something quite unusual and that’s to drink red wine colder

And your beverage of choice when not sipping a glass of wine? At this time of the year it definitely has to be Gin Mare with Mediterranean tonic.

There is a wine to compliment every dish on the weekly changing A La Carte menu, you can enjoy two courses for £19 and three for £25 every Saturday evening, to book please call 01892 520 587.

Drink in the magic of summertime…

His thirst quenched and horizons expanded from myriad stellar tastings around the country, this week our spittoon-loving Drinks Editor James Viner rounds up the best buys and top wines for summer quaffing

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Italy’s Veneto region by winemaker Giorgio Marchiotto, this easy drinking red is smooth and fruity in style with hints of plums, pepper and red fruits, whilst the white is 100% garganega (the late-ripening élite grape in the Soave blend) – light, crisp and relaxed with flavours of apple, pear and citrus fruit. Pair the quaffable merlot with rich pâtés, burgers, charcuterie, grilled chicken/ Mediterranean veggies, pork pies, roast pork or ham sandwiches. The white meanwhile is just the ticket for Greek/ seafood salads, spaghetti with pesto and barbecued fish. Fits nicely in a handbag too – buon appetito!

HETHER you’re off on a picnic or want to dine al fresco in the garden on one of these pleasant balmy evenings make sure you have your ice bucket ready because I have your outdoor drinking sorted for summer.

Read on to discover my top picks to crack open while the weather’s warm and the sun is shining. Oh and remember to lightly chill red wines if it’s above 20°C (68°F) outside. Here are the bottles to help you celebrate the summer sunshine…

1. PERFECT LIGHT-BODIED HALFLITRE SCREWCAP BOTTLES FOR PICNICS, CAMPING, FESTIVALS AND CONCERTS

Certo Merlot, Veneto, Italy (11.5%, £4, Co-op, 50cl) New for the summer, the Co-op’s exclusive 50cl screwcap bottles of Certo merlot are ideal for picnics. Created in

2. DREAMY SHERBET-LICIOUS, LIGHTLY FROTHING, FRUITY MOSCATO D’ASTI FOR SUMMER DESSERTS/THE NAKED SIP

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2016 G.D. Vajra Moscato d’Asti , Piedmont, Italy (5.5%, £12.95-£16.95, Slurp/The Wine Trust/WineDirect/Lea&Sandeman)

Food & Drink

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Italy’s Moscato d’Asti is the perfect choice for fruit-based desserts and long, scorching midsummer afternoons, with its low alcohol and revitalising, semi-sparkling fruitiness. This a very high-quality offering from vineyards 400M above sea level. There’s a lot going on here: elderflowers, white peach, orange blossom and melon aromas; stone fruit, pear and grape on the semi-sweet palate. There is so much flavour intensity here you could drink it instead of pudding! Serve ice cold in regular wineglasses on a summer’s day and drink with Zabaglione, white chocolate, Eton Mess, cakes, summer strawberries, fruitbased desserts and cheese (especially Stracchino and Gorgonzola). Save a bottle for Christmas morning. Drink it soon to capture the fresh flavours.

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3. FLAT-OUT GORGEOUS, RAVISHING, SUCCULENT AND PERFUMED LOIRE RED

2015 Domaine des Ormes Saumur Rouge, Loire, France (13.5%, £7.49, Co-op) You can’t go wrong for a summery supermarket red at this price. Charming, enticing, fragrant and packed full of crunchy raspberry, blackcurrant leaf and forest fruits, this medium-bodied wine has great character and cruises through the mid-palate before opening its peacock tail on the lingering finish and aftertaste. Pour it at your next barbecue – it’s especially tasty with grilled tuna/salmon steaks

and also spot-on for gammon, BBQ red meat, charcuterie, paella, chèvre, summer picnics, grilled quail salad and rabbit dishes. Made from 100% earlier-ripening cabernet franc (the original cabernet grape, which likely came from Spain’s Basque country, see below. Give it a ten-minute dip in the ice bucket on hot days.

4. SLEEK, LIGHT AND BONE DRY WHITE FOR SEAFOOD FROM SPAIN’S BASQUE REGION

2016 Txakolí Txomin Etxaniz , Getaria, Spain (11%, £14.99, Ocado, new vintage soon elsewhere) Dazzling! This fresh-as-a-daisy style will have lots of fans and belongs in your life this summer. I’m a big fan of the on-trend, appley white wines of Spain’s wet Basque country (País Vasco/Euskadi). If a zingy lemon, pear and green apple hosted a gustatory fiesta, this would be the headliner. Aged on its lees, this is a perky, crunchy and slightly spritzy white Txakolí/Chacolí (sha-koLEE) with moderate alcohol and lifted acidity that tastes like a cross between Picpoul, Muscadet and Vinho Verde. It’s one of the most thirst-quenching summer white wines on the globe and would be a real treat with fishy tapas (pinxtos) and Atlantic seafood – a must-have bottle for all local seafood restaurants as it’s just so delectable with shellfish and also a whizz with fish and chips.

Superb vintage. Buy as much as you can whilst stocks last at Ocado.

MIX UP A COOLING ANDALUSIAN SUMMER APERITIF CHILL OUT with this refreshing Iberian Rebujito cocktail. I love it in the summer with either fino or manzanilla sherry (during the winter it’s equally great with oloroso or amontillado). Top it up with a splash of soda. n 75ML/3OZ FINO OR MANZANILLA SHERRY (e.g. 4-year old

Tío Pepe – a bottle will last a week in the fridge) n AROUND 150ML/6OZ DECENT LEMONADE (I often

substitute this with Fentimans’ ‘Connoisseurs’ tonic water, garnishing with lemon peel) n 1 SPRIG FRESH MINT AND/OR n 1 GREEN OLIVE AS A GARNISH

Mix in a pitcher full of ice, then serve in a tall glass. ¡Salud!

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TOP TIP: Rosé Tipple Tip: 2017 Cheval de Mer Méditerranée Rosé, France (12.5%, £7, Tesco).

Save a few quid on Provence rosé by knabbing this pretty-as-apicture pink all-rounder instead. A must-try supermarket bargain for summer parties and the perfect first glass of the evening…

Follow James on Twitter @QuixoticWine

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Food & Drink

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

On The Menu…

THE MEXICAN KITCHEN • 26 London Rd, Tunbridge Wells Tel: 01892 315297 • www.themexicankitchentw.com

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TOP ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT) 1. Ensalada de Sandia 2. Chicken Burrito 3. Prawn Cocktail 4. Chicken Fajita BOTTOM ROW (LEFT TO RIGHT) 5. Nachos Classico 6. House Fresh Salsa Blend 7. Crispy Taquito with Chicken Tinga 8. Churros 9. Frijoles and Tortilla Chips 10.Sirloin Steak Street Taco

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Advertorial

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Hats off to Hattons

Giving up the Michelin-starred life might seem like an odd career move to some, but Daniel Hatton has quickly turned his name into a premium local brand.

Hannah Patterson heads down to his premises on The Pantiles to meet the man wanting to help make the area an exciting destination…

Hattons is the only retailer in Tunbridge Wells to stock the increasingly popular earl grey and cucumber Pipehouse Gin. Describing themselves as ‘innovators’ in craft gin, Pipehouse pride themselves in creating a product that uses seemingly contrasting flavours to form a ‘perfect pairing’, and Daniel is thrilled to have the brand on his shelves.

“When people think of Hattons, I want them to think that it’s the gin stockist of Tunbridge Wells,” says Daniel. “We’re currently offering a £5 voucher for customers to use on their next bottle of gin after their first purchase. The gin trend has been around for almost three years now, but I think it still has legs in it.”

And what does he credit the longevity of the gin trend to?

“The botanicals,” notes Daniel. “When you serve gin, you serve it with a flourish – fresh cucumber, pink grapefruit, junipers and lemon.

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ANIEL HATTON is feeling elated following the success of The Pantiles’ inaugural Gin Festival, held Saturday June 9 and Sunday June 10 of this year.

“It was a massive success,” he says. “It couldn’t have gone any better.”

It’s a badly kept secret that many traders on the historic promenade bank on a prosperous summer season to comfortably get through the cold winter months when footfall dips.

A reinvigoration of the seasonal events held here seemed like the ticket to success, and the popularity of the gin extravaganza proved this to be true.

“We took a week’s takings in a day,” Daniel tells me. “I’ve never seen The Pantiles so busy, and I’ve lived in the area for 25 years.”

In his opinion, a gin festival was exactly what the doctor ordered, especially as it brought over 5,000 visitors on the Saturday and 4,000 on the Sunday, and he used his business savvy to ensure that the Hattons brand stood out from the crowd.

For the duration of the weekend, he doubled his frontage by buying one of the stall slots in front of his picture-perfect shop, in order to set up his very own bar. Selling gin and tonic, he burned through 110 bottles of the spirit over the course of the weekend.

Daniel says: “Not a lot of people realise that we sell gin here – we have over 35 different varieties! The festival was the perfect opportunity to showcase some of the impeccable brands that we have here.”

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Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Aesthetically, it’s a striking drink, and one that both men and women want to be seen with.”

Daniel works very closely with the spearhead of these events, Julian Leefe-Griffiths of The Tunbridge Wells Hotel, to make sure that The Pantiles is an exciting destination, and continuing to think outside the box with new festivals is a necessity for a thriving economy.

But there’s still a reliance on the ‘old faithful’ occasions to maintain a bustling business; one being Jazz on The Pantiles, the ongoing success that runs annually from May through to September every Thursday around the iconic Bandstand.

In Daniel’s own words, Hattons may be a coffee shop, but it’s a premium brand.

The jazz is always the

ideal opportunity to showcase his work, using the skills and knowledge that earned him his Michelin star while head chef at Thackeray’s. He enthusiastically evolves his menu each year for the jazz; following the traditional three-course offering of 2017, he’s taken the Mediterranean concept of tapas, and twisted it into a modern small-plate dining experience.

Daniel says: “We’re using a selection of ingredients from local and national producers, as well as taking inspiration from South America and the continent.”

Although a champion of supporting the local economy, he believes that there’s a balance between promoting Kent, and ensuring that his dishes remain of a high quality, at an affordable price.

“Do I use Kentish strawberries?

Asparagus? Of course!” Daniel says.

“But I also like to look beyond our borders. There are some truly spectacular ingredients out there, so it’s importance to find that middle ground, in order to create the sort of menu that I want, and keep it affordable for my customers.

“We want an area that’s prosperous and where people can survive, but we also want a variety of produce. A quality food offering should take you on a journey.”

The Hattons brand is clearly going from strength to strength, as Daniel has had to double his capacity over the past year, a decision that he wasn’t enthused to make.

Initially, The Pantiles premises was penned as a location to purchase great wine, gin, home furnishings and

delicatessen produce – not a café – but Daniel was a victim of his own success.

“The demand was there,” he recalls. “We were turning people away, and in order to be successful in business, you have to let your customers lead you. Whether I’m selling 10 covers or 30, my rent is still the same, so although it may not have been the direction that I wanted to go in, it made absolute sense.”

As well as a keen sense for business, he also possesses an excellent eye for retail products.

The home furnishings side of the company is booming, to which Daniel credits the niche and artisan stock that lines the shelves.

“You’ll find nothing on these shelves that’s mass-produced,” he says. “It’s all created by those who have a passion for what they do.

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Everything is so unique, and has a true quality of craftsmanship.”

Since first opening its doors in 2016, Hattons has become a go-to destination for delicious food and artisan products. Consistently striving to be the best at what he does, Daniel is showing no signs of slowing down, determined to continue his mission of serving up something truly individual to all who seek it, and being perfectly positioned on the promenade certainly helps.

Hattons of Royal Tunbridge Wells 38 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5TN www.hattonsrtw.co.uk info@hattonsrtw.co.uk 01892 540555

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travel

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Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Journey with a difference

to share in the real Jamaica One luxury holiday group are encouraging a tourist concept nicknamed ‘voluntourism’ – where visitors give something back to local communities.

Here, Hannah Stephenson discovers the joy of reading to cheery Jamaican schoolchildren while exploring areas many tourists might never see…

Hannah Stephenson

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Travel

O SOONER have I stepped off the tour bus into the brilliant Jamaican sunshine than two little arms gently wrap themselves around my waist from behind, giving me a welcome that would melt even the hardest heart.

Turning around, I look down to see the hugger beaming up at me, seven-year-old Shantavia Myres – a pupil at Ocho Rios Primary School – in a crisp white and navy school uniform, afro hair tied back into two short stubs. She’s quickly joined by her pal, Delesha McCarthy, another smartly-dressed, smiling cutie with fantastically braided hair, eager to welcome me to their school.

I’m on a ‘voluntourism’ reading road trip, off the regular tourist trail of well-worn excursions such as Dunn’s River Falls and the Bob Marley Museum, to give back a little of my privileged life to local communities, in some small way.

It’s run from the luxury, all-inclusive Sandals Ochi Beach Resort in Ocho Rios on behalf of

the Sandals Foundation – a non-profit offshoot of Sandals Resorts International which funds initiatives to help local communities, describing itself as a true philanthropic extension of the brand.

You pay US $25 (around £18) for the reading road trip, which takes you to a primary school where you find out a bit about the Jamaican education system, meet the teachers and children and spend a morning reading to a group of them.

Tourists are invited to bring in books and other essentials to donate to the school, and the cost of their excursion helps pay for other sundries, such as paper, pencils and even uniforms and computer equipment.

The experience is magical as I sit at a table to read with a delightful group of six and seven year olds, all wide-eyed innocents hungry to learn, hands constantly darting upwards, giggles never far away.

Apart from the cost of transport, the excursion money goes directly to the people who need it as the Foundation’s running costs – including staff wages and administration – are paid for by Sandals Resorts International.

All-inclusive hotels once had a bad reputation, with accusations that they encouraged little local trade because visitors were not encouraged to venture far, and paid local staff poor wages.

But things are changing. A security guard at the resort tells me that having a job there for a few years has enabled him to build his own house and that the wages are good.

Hotel groups, including Sandals – the largest all-inclusive hotel group in the Caribbean – have

‘TURTLE MAN’ Melvyn Tennant shows off a baby turtle

now assumed at least some ethical responsibility, putting money back into impoverished local communities and inviting tourists to get involved.

On another day, I venture inland from the northern coast of Ocho Rios, along a road carved through a dense canopy of rainforest, with overhanging fronds of deep lush ferns stretching out over the road, and the sky blocked by a leafy umbrella of logwood and cedar trees. This is Jamaica in the raw.

An hour later we arrive at The Village Academy, a school of agriculture for 16 18 year olds who have either dropped out of school, or for whom school has just not been viable because of their social or economic circumstances.

Here, youngsters are taught how to grow their own crops and rear their own livestock – animal husbandry is big in Jamaica – and can gain sufficient qualifications to enable them to further their education at university.

BATHE IN LUXURY At Sandals Ochi Beach Resort

Travel

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Star pupil Kellicia Brown, 18, comes from Denham Town, one of the most notorious suburbs of Kingston, where gun crime is rife.

Initially, she travelled to the village by bus – two hours each way – arriving back in the dark fearing she might be attacked on her walk home.

But last year the Sandals Foundation funded the building of boarding accommodation, so she is now able to stay over during term time.

Kellicia plans to go on to university and one day own her own farm.

burden, but we barely scratch the surface.

Visitors may be keener to see how the foundation is helping to fund a local sea turtle project at Oracabessa Bay, run by retired head teacher Melvyn Tennant, from Birmingham, known locally as ‘The Turtle Man’.

Tennant says the fact guests are on the beach to see the hatchlings make the journey to the open sea helps deter land predators such as crabs, herons, dogs and mongooses, who will eat them before they’ve reached the water.

“I call it ‘edutainment’,” he says.

“Tourists want to look at and hold a baby turtle. But they will also go away with some knowledge, and are supporting the message about environmental conservation.”

The excursion costs $30 (about £22) through Island Routes (www. islandroutes.com) and the money goes into the project.

The concept of voluntourism may not be for everyone – but there’s no better way to experience the culture and lifestyle of a country than by immersing yourself in its real communities for a few hours.

I will remember those STAR PUPIL smiling reading road trip The Village faces long after I’ve forgotten Academy’s the names of those allKellicia Brown inclusive holiday cocktails.

‘The experience is magical as I sit at a table to read with a delightful group of wide-eyed innocents hungry to learn, giggles never far away’ While this is not on the current range of official excursions, Heidi Clarke, the foundation’s Director of Programs, says the aim is to encourage tourists to visit the academy.

There are other voluntourism initiatives that may prove more difficult to market, such as spasmodic beach clean-ups.

On the day I go, we are given rubber gloves and rubbish sacks to fill from a saltwater soup of discarded plastic bottles, takeaway containers, and even fake hair braids, washed down in a storm drain close to a local beach.

Again, small communities, adults and children all get stuck in to ease the environmental

READING ROAD TRIP Hannah with the children

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HOW TO GET THERE Sandals Ochi Beach Resort (www.sandals. co.uk; 0800 597 0002) offers seven nights all-inclusive accommodation at Sandals Ochi Beach Resort from £1,679pp. Price includes return economy flights from London Gatwick and resort transfers.

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Powered by

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

COVER UP SLEEK AND CHIC

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State of the art technology Theknow brings you the latest tech and clever time-saving gadgets and widgets to make your life easier and more enjoyable. Eileen Leahy picks her top tech essentials

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FULL POWER HEY VACAY Moshi’s IonSlim 5K is an ultra-thin portable battery designed to extend the life of your mobile devices, featuring both a USB-C and USB-A port for near universal compatibility. At only 8.5 mm thin, IonSlim 5K is one of the slimmest portable batteries available on the market and effortlessly slides into your pocket or purse for discreet carrying on the go. Moshi IonSlim 5K Portable Battery , £54.95, www.moshi.com

SPEAK THE TRUTH The Edifier S350DB Bookshelf Speaker and Subwoofer 2.1 Speaker System Bluetooth v4.1 aptX gives amazing wireless sound for wherever it’s positioned in the home. You can plug it into a multiple sources of audio and it also has a wireless remote control. The Edifier S350DB, £249.99, www.edifier.com

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Motoring

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Motoring News

A look at what’s happening in and around the world of motoring

Aston Martin unveils stunning custom-built V8 Cygnet city car

On Peak electric form at Goodwood Festival

AFTER breaking the all-time record at the Pikes Peak international hill climb, the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak electric car and its driver, Romain Dumas, have set a new record at the Goodwood Festival of Speed’s Shootout event.

The race car tackled the Goodwood hill climb in just 43.86 seconds, beating the best time for an electric car. The previous record has stood since 2013, set by Jonny Cocker in the Lola-Drayon B12 69/EV. Despite the I.D. R’s power deficit – 670bhp vs 850bhp – it managed to shave 3.48 seconds off Cocker’s time.

The time also comes very close to the all-time record, set in 1999

by Nick Heidfeld at the wheel of a McLaren-Mercedes MP4/13 F1 car.

Heidfeld managed a time of 41.6 seconds on the 1.86km route.

Dumas actually managed an even quicker time during qualifying for the Shootout, of 43.05s – but hotter temperatures during the final slowed the eventual run down.

The record-breaking run is despite the car not being specifically tuned for the Goodwood climb. As a Pikes Peak contender, it’s designed to tackle a fearsome 12-mile mountain course – not the 1.2 miles of Lord March’s driveway at Goodwood.

Romain Dumas said: “Goodwood is an absolutely fantastic event, and I am more than happy that we won…

The hill climb track is short but often dirty and therefore you should definitely not underestimate it.”

MEET the Aston Martin V8 Cygnet – the incredible dream of one customer made real by the British firm’s ‘Q’ commission service.

The original Cygnet took the world by surprise when it went on sale in 2011, but this new model may have just eclipsed that initial shock.

Based on the Toyota iQ city car, it has an extended track width leading to some seriously eye-catching wheel arches.

And hiding under the bodywork is a 4.7-litre V8 unit lifted from the Van-tage S sports car, producing 430bhp and 490Nm of torque that’s sent to the rear wheels via a sevenspeed automatic transmission.

The result is 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds – even quicker than the Vantage – along with a top speed of 170mph.

Improvements have been made to the chassis in an effort to contain this extra power, including a roll cage.

Elsewhere, 19-inch alloys house six-piston brake callipers up front, with four-piston units at the rear – with the wheels wrapped in Bridgestone tyres. Just so it stands out even further, the V8 Cygnet features twin central exhaust pipes.

Aston Martin Vice-President and Special Operations Officer David King said: “The V8 Cygnet shows the fun side of both Aston Martin and its customers.”

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McLaren range to be fully hybrid by 2025 BRITISH firm McLaren has revealed it will make exclusively hybrid vehicles by 2025, while also introducing 18 new cars over the next seven years.

The plans are part of its Track25 road map, and will also incude the development of a battery system capable of superfast charging as well as completing 30 minutes round a racetrack on a full charge.

The manufacturer has previously produced just one hybrid vehicle – the P1 hypercar introduced in 2013 – which will also receive a successor within the next seven years.

The 18 new cars will be entirely new models and derivatives, although McLaren didn’t specify exact numbers for each.

However, the possibility of expanding into the SUV market appears to have been ruled out for now, with McLaren insisting its focus will remain on developing midengined sports cars.

McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Mike Flewitt said: “Everyone at McLaren Automotive remains constant in their focus of designing and crafting the world’s best drivers’ cars.

“True to McLaren’s spirit however, our ambitions continue to grow and our £1.2bn Track25 business plan, which covers 18 new models including a new McLaren P1, is clear proof of that.

“We are a luxury brand that is committed to investing in innovation – whether that’s in the development and manufacture of our own carbon-fibre tubs as part of a new £50million, British-based production centre; new powertrains with our entire range due to be hybrid by 2025; or the deployment of technology to enhance the driving and owning experience.”

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Puzzles and Recruitment

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Fill your vacancy now in print or online

From just £99 For more information contact our commercial team on 01892 779650

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

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Codeword:

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

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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles, Inc.

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DIFFICULTY RATING:★★★★

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JULY 11 PUZZLES SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU & JIGSAW SUDOKU

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

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

Puzzle solutions will be published in a forthcoming issue

B O A F J A F A I R OC E R E S E A R I D N O E D U E T E X

T H E R P I Q E E R U F A WA YWA T A L H A R D T I M D E I N S T E S T S Z U S T O T L E R A K B I P U S I C I E I E N A N S O L V E

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7 5 4 9 6 1 3 8 2

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2 8 9 5 7 3 4 1 6

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3 6 1 7 4 2 9 5 8

8 9 2 3 1 5 6 4 7

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5 9 6 1 2 3 8 7 4

2 1 3 7 9 6 4 8 5

6 4 8 3 5 1 2 9 7

9 3 6 8 5 7 1 2 4

1 4 8 2 9 6 5 7 3

Jigsaw Sudoku:

7 3 5 4 1 2 9 6 8

9 8 2 5 6 4 7 3 1

1 6 4 8 3 7 5 2 9

8 7 9 2 4 5 3 1 6

4 2 7 6 8 9 1 5 3

3 5 1 9 7 8 6 4 2

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

CODEWORD

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Sport

Please send sports stories to: newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk or newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk

Williams propels Wells to third straight win Tenterden 201 lost to Tunbridge Wells 205-6 by 4 wkts

By Alan Cutts CRICKET: TUNBRIDGE WELLS travelled to

Morghew Park in second place in the Kent League Premier Division knowing they had to keep the pressure on the leaders Blackheath.

Tenterden’s captain Ben Price won the toss and chose to bat first on an excellent surface, set in the delightful, historical Smallhythe Road estate.

Openers Justin Mosca and Chris Vernon steadily put together a 50-partnership but both then fell with the score on 56.

So the next pairing had to start over with rebuilding the innings. Andrew Crawford provided the support for Price (43), who looked in ominous form, striking four fours and two sixes as the third stand raised an energetic 59 runs.

Having just been despatched for 10 runs in two balls, Dave Smith (2 for 43) removed the perpetrator Price and Ranjit Singh in successive deliveries, and so the home side slipped to 141 for 5 with just 14 overs remaining.

Wells wrapped up the remaining five wickets for 60 runs to bowl out the hosts for 201 and give themselves an excellent chance of recording a third successive victory.

Skipper Chris Williams was the chief architect of the home side’s demise as he snapped up 4 for

25 from nine overs, while off-spinner Marcus O’Riordan returned 3 for 40.

This was a telling performance from Wells, whose all-round skills and penetration left the Tenterden batting well short of their expectations.

Tom Richards and James Rand quickly hit back for the home bowlers, knocking over two of the top three while the score inched along to 37 for 2.

With the match in the balance, the third partnership was of crucial import, and the Williams brothers did not disappoint.

Chris was in attacking mode, crashing seven fours and six sixes in a superb assault that brought him 75 from just 49 balls.

Sibling Alex was equally destructive with seven fours and a six in his innings of 54 from 39 balls, and a buccaneering stand of 114 at more than nine runs an over left just 50 to get from the last 33 overs.

Richards (2 for 20) and Chris Vernon intervened but the result was never in doubt and the target was passed at 205 for 6 with 21 overs in hand.

Chris Williams restored his place at the top of the Premier League batting aggregate and Richards joined Wells’ Ari Karvelas and O’Riordan as leading wicket-takers with 26.

O’Riordan also added two more catches to his

tally to lead the fielders’ list, the statistics showing how Wells are dominating all facets of the game in the top flight.

Wells netted the full 18 points to remain in Blackheath’s slipstream, following the leaders’ narrow win over Bickley Park.

They had only once recorded three consecutive Premier League wins, in 2016, and their young side are beginning to hit their straps at the top level.

A head-to-head meeting of the top two sides will resolve some of the leadership questions when the two sides play each other at The Nevill on Saturday [July 28].

HISTORIC LOW SCORE Bottom-of-the-table Beckenham were bowled out for just 18 by Bexley, who won the match in just 21 balls and 12 minutes.

It was the lowest ever score in the Kent League - and in the famous club’s 152-year history. Scottish international Calum MacLeod took 6 for 5, and Beckenham’s reporter Peter Wiseman described the debacle as ‘much, much worse than an absolute disgrace’.

Wateringbury Primary School won the Most Sporting Team award for their positive behaviour and considerations towards others throughout the competition.

County final

and it has been such a pleasure to watch these potentially great cricketers of the future playing with such enthusiasm.”

Seven 14 to 16-year-olds who are taking part in the council’s Young Cricket Leaders Programme attended the festival to help out

Lordswood in charge as Wells miss out in county T20 final CRICKET: TUNBRIDGE Wells reached the Kent final of the National Club Twenty20 competition for the third year in succession but were unable to progress to the regional round after slipping to defeat against Lordswood.

In the semi-final at Beckenham’s Foxgrove ground Wells (168 for 7) beat Bexley (158 for 6) by 10 runs. The opposition boasted in their ranks Calum MacLeod, who amassed 140 not out for Scotland when they beat England by six runs last month. He was at the crease as Bexley needed 31 off the last two overs but he was unable to repeat his international heroics.

Wells were then restricted to 136 for 7 in the final, despite Marcus O’Riordan’s 52 not out from 44 balls. Lordswood opener Linden Lockhart compiled an unbeaten 78 off 59 deliveries and Edward Taylor chipped in with 43 as they cruised to 138 for 2 with three overs to spare.

Cowdrey suffers dramatic collapse against bottom side Old Colfeians 247 beat Cowdrey 68 by 179 runs

By Stuart Clarke

Roseacre step in to win Kwik Cricket Festival CRICKET: THE Tonbridge & Malling Kwik Cricket Festival at Kings Hill Sports Park was won by a specially invited school from the Maidstone district, Roseacre Primary School, who beat Leybourne Primary in a hard-fought final.

Around 250 young cricketers made up 23 teams from 14 primary schools across the borough, with 20 matches played in the round robin four-pool stage.

The festival was organised by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council in partnership with Kent Community Cricket as part of a national programme to encourage more schools to offer cricket as part of the PE curriculum.

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

with scoring and umpiring.

Cllr Bates added: “I would like to thank all the Young Cricket Leaders and the coaches involved for their exceptional scoring and umpiring efforts, and the staff at Kings Hill Sports Park for hosting such a fabulous event again this year.”

A team from Ightham Primary were chosen to represent the borough in the county final in Canterbury as neither Leybourne nor Roseacre were able to attend the event.

The borough’s Mayor, Pam Bates, presented the prizes and said: “Congratulations to Roseacre Primary School for their most impressive win.

“It has been an excellent afternoon

BIG HITTERS A Chiddingstone Primary batsman takes on Weald

CRICKET: IT WAS a day to forget for Cowdrey, leaders of Kent League Division Four, when they travelled to bottom of the league Old Colfeians at Horn Park.

For the tenth time in a dozen matches Cowdrey’s captain Anthony Mills lost the toss and the home side opted to bat first.

From the off Cowdrey were under the pump with Alex Lorimer (62) and Stephen Cowburn (83) in ruthless form, and Old Colfeians raced to 80 in 10 overs.

The introduction of Thom Brown (3 for 46) allowed Cowdrey to gain a measure of control.

The paceman bowled unchanged in the middle overs and picked up three top-order wickets including the crucial scalp of Lorimer.

At the half way point Old Colfeians were well placed at 160 for 3 but an improved performance

by Cowdrey in the second half of the innings restricted them to 247 all out, the highlight being Mills’ direct-hit run-out from cover to end the innings with 10 balls remaining.

However, Old Colfeians’ opening attack of Lorimer (3 for 25) and Harry Kelleher (4 for 23) sent down a good line and length and destroyed the Cowdrey’s batting line-up.

Only Ash Borella and Mills getting into double figures as Harshil Patel (3 for 8) wrapped up the reply at 68 all out in just 28.1 overs.

The heavy defeat will provide a useful lesson that nothing can be taken for granted, though Cowdrey remain well clear at the top of the table.

They retain a 21-point gap over second-placed Catford Wanderers, who beat Tonbridge by the similarly emphatic margin of 176 runs.

Cowdrey will look to get back to winning ways at home to Addington Village on Saturday (July 28).

Rapid Fire success for Hilden Oaks

ACROSS THE LINE A Wouldham Primary pupil keeps her eye on the ball

CHANCE TO SHINE Ightham represented the borough in the county finals

CRICKET: PUPILS from Key Stage 1 at Hilden Oaks in Tonbridge emerged as the overall winners of the Rapid Fire cricket tournament held in Canterbury recently. Hundreds of children from all over Kent represented their schools at festivals held during April, May and June with the winners of these being invited to Kent’s Spitfire Ground to take part in the finals day when Hilden Oaks took first place with Lady Joanna Thornhills (Ashford) coming a close second.

Matthew Fagg, the Community Cricket Officer who ran the pilot programme in 2015, said: “It was amazing to see how well the competition has progressed in such a short space of time and how keenly the schools across the county have embraced it.”

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Sport

Wednesday July 25 | 2018

Turner’s quality fires Angels to derby win in pre-season game

Angels manager Steve McKimm then made wholesale changes which resulted in virtually a first-team squad on the pitch.

The game remained even and it looked like the deadlock wouldn’t be broken. But in the 90th minute left-back Liam Smith picked the ball up just inside the Sevenoaks half, jinked his way past three defenders and unleashed a powerful shot to win the game.

Tonbridge Angels 3 Tunbridge Wells 0 FOOTBALL: TONBRIDGE ANGELS turned in a

performance of high intensity at Longmead to overcome neighbours Tunbridge Wells in a pre-season friendly.

The visiting team compete two levels below their hosts in the football pyramid, in the Southern Counties East League Premier Division.

Right from the off the home side played at a high tempo despite the soaring temperatures.

Their movement off the ball was excellent and the Wells defenders were finding it increasingly difficult to pick up their markers.

James Folkes combined well with Adem Ramadan on the right flank and Liam Smith did the same with Joe Turner on the left.

In the centre Alex Read was supported by Tommy Whitnell and Tom Beere, giving the Wells central defenders no time on the ball.

But it took 41 minutes for the dominant Angels to find the breakthrough. After some impressive hold-up play from Read, Turner’s low shot beat Wells keeper Cameron Hall to his left and nestled into the corner of the net.

BEERE FLOWING ON HIS RETURN

HEAD TURNER Joe Turner celebrates the first of his two goals

Experimental Earlier in the week the Angels had overcome another local side, Southern Counties East League Premier Division champions Sevenoaks

Town at Greatness Park in another friendly.

In an experimental line-up Baselle Aristide pounced on a loose ball on 23 minutes and saw his initial effort blocked by the Sevenoaks ‘keeper only to poke home the rebound.

But in the second half Sevenoaks scored a deserved equaliser through Frankie Sawyer, and

Students prove too strong at start of Sevens

PLATE WINNERS Tunbridge Wells Sevens team

RUGBY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Sevens team contested the regional finals at Ealing Trailfinders, representing Kent as county winners in the RFU’s 24-7s competition.

Mav Anderson’s mix of club stalwarts and former players lost their first game 25-5 against England Universities, who went on to win the competition, but drew the second half 5-5.

But they improved as they went on, narrowly losing to guest side Badgers 26-19 before running out comfortable winners against the Wolves 7 25-10 in the final group game.

This put the only town side competing into the Plate final, and they came home with the medal after beating the Los Pelicanos team 25-10.

Conor Ward, Max Douch, and James Lineham put in the tackles and gave a strong defence while George Montgomery was the playmaker and providing many opportunities to break.

Skipper Mike Doherty, Max Douch and Matt Spicer provided pace and finishing skills, while Jordan Earle added further firepower in the last game to add attacking options.

PHOTO: David Couldridge

By James Rowe

On 56 minutes it was effectively game over for Tunbridge Wells when, from Ramadan’s assist, Craig Stone’s shot found its way past a defence that had been pulled every which way. Stone deserved his goal for the unstinting work in the heart of the Angels midfield.

WIth 20 minutes remaining, Turner once again showed his quality when he controlled the ball through a tiring defence to claim his second strike.

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Tom Beere has returned to Tonbridge Angels for the start of the new campaign and was influential in the friendly against Sevenoaks, pulling the strings in the middle of the park. The former AFC Wimbledon midfielder started eight games for the club in the early part of last season and Angels manager Steve McKimm said: “I’m sure anyone who was at Sevenoaks will have been reminded of what Tom can bring to the side.

“I’m delighted he’s chosen to rejoin us - his experience will be invaluable to our campaign this time round.”

Arsenal legend Merson is guest of honour at Sportsman’s Dinner FOOTBALL: PAUL MERSON will be guest of honour at Tonbridge Angels’ Sportsman’s Dinner in the Marquee on September 6.

The former Arsenal and England midfielder, whose rich talent was allied to a colourful and often tragic life off the pitch, now works as a pundit with Sky Sports. The event will be hosted by veteran after-dinner speaker Bob ‘The Cat’ Bevan.

Tickets, including a two-course dinner, cost £45 or £450 for a table of 10. Places can be reserved by emailing marquee TAFC@gmail.com or angelssponsorship@ gmail.com