Times of Tunbridge Wells 28th February 2018

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

INSIDE NEW DEVELOPMENT Paddock Wood flood plain site gets go-ahead Pages 8-9

PHOTO: Craig Matthews

SUFFRAGETTE CITY

Town marks centenary of suffragette movement Pages 4-5

SNOW PATROL: Due to the heavy snowfall earlier this week the people of Tunbridge Wells were treated to a fun snow day on Tuesday. With schools shut, trains cancelled and main roads blocked residents had a day off, taking to the local parks including Dunorlan, above, for some sledging fun… For more snow pictures see page 3

Town produces highest number of university students in the county

By Jonathan Banks newsdesk@timesoftonbridge.co.uk TUNBRIDGE WELLS is top of the class when it comes to the number of school leavers aged 18 entering university, according to new data released this week by the University and College Admissions Service (UCAS).

The figures are drawn from the 17 parliamentary constituencies across Kent and show that in Tunbridge Wells almost 43 per cent of students went on to university last year, an increase of 9 per cent compared to 2016.

This puts the borough at the head of

county league tables, with Sevenoaks next at 42 per cent – an 8 per cent rise.

Third spot goes to Tonbridge & Malling on 40 per cent although the borough has one of the biggest year on year rises of ten per cent.

‘It is excellent to see such good outcomes for Tunbridge Wells students’ Nationally, the biggest number of parliamentary constituencies fall into the 25-30 per cent category.

The fact that in Tunbridge Wells just over four out of every ten school leavers

aged 18 enters university will come as no surprise. The town has long been recognised for the high educational standards of its schools both in the state and independent sectors. Indeed local schools, are credited with being one of the main attractions for families moving to the area.

When the Times approached Tunbridge Wells MP Greg Clark to comment on the figures, he said: “Tunbridge Wells has an excellent choice of schools – all ability, grammar, church and independent. It’s great that so many are going on to university, and a testimony to all the heads, teaching and support staff that encourage pupils to aim high.”

Kent County Council’s Roger Gough, the Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, added: “It is excellent to see such good outcomes for Tunbridge Wells students.

The wide variety of local schools – whether grammar schools, denominational schools, or wide ability – all deliver to a very high standard.”

The UCAS figures, however, reveal a measurable east/west divide in the county, with some areas seeing just one in four leavers go on to university. In Dover, for example, the figure is 24 per cent.

Continued on page 2

MAKE MOTHER’S DAY See our pick of pampering presents for March 11 Page 72

EDUCATION SPECIAL

Our essential guide to best independent schools Page 23

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Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Figures reveal a measurable east/west Kent divide Continued from page 1 This has prompted Dover MP Charlie Elphicke to suggest that all too often more money went to ‘schools in leafy west Kent’ leaving east Kent deprived of the investment needed.

Mr Clark also pointed out that a university education is not the only option available to school leavers: “We mustn’t forget the growing number of high-quality apprenticeships that are now on offer,” he told the Times, adding “I think that, over time, more and more young people will take this alternative career path.”

PERCENTAGE OF SCHOOL LEAVERS AGED 18 ENTERING UNIVERSITY BY CONSTITUENCY

2017 2016

Ashford

27.6 23.2

Canterbury

30.7 21.4

Chatham and Aylesford

24.8 17.2

Dartford

31.8 24.2

Dover

23.9

Raversham & Mid Kent

31.0 24.2

Folkestone & Hythe

28.0 18.9

Gildingham & Rainham

30.1 20.9

Gravesham

29.7 21.1

Maidstone & The Weald

35.5 29.4

North Thanet

25.3 19.7

Rochester & Strood

32.8 22.1

Sevenoaks

41.7 33.6

Sittingbourse & Sheppey

25.1 19.5

South Thanes

28.1 21.4

21.6

Tonbridge & Malling

40.0 30.2

Tunbridge Wells

42.6 33.7

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16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1NU

CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS HERE at the Times of Tonbridge 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.

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Patients at new super-surgery can ‘get a lift from a relative or a taxi’

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk LACK of parking space at the new three-storey Medical Centre to be built on the site of the Teen and Twenty Club means patients may have to use taxis or public transport to visit the doctor.

That was the warning from Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s Area 1 planning committee last week [February 22] when it granted permission for the demolition of the club and the construction of a surgery and pharmacy on the site.

Members gave the go-ahead to the controversial development despite concerns about the parking provision, flood risk, surface water drainage, air quality and the felling of a mature chestnut tree.

Only Judd Councillors Peter Bolt and David Cure spoke and voted against the development, questioning the committee’s independence on the basis that the council was selling its own property.

tors, pharmacists and other staff was also inadequate, predicting: “The majority of staff will need to get to work through a variety of means such as walking, bus, cycling, car lift/share, parking further afield and then walking’.

Ms Reid said: “The central location of the site and its ability to be served by public transport combined with the proximity of public car parks for those making journeys by private car would mean that despite the limited size of the car park on site, there would not be an unacceptable adverse impact on highway safety arising from the development.”

The area is designated to be at high risk of flooding but the committee quoted the flood risk assessment (FRA) which said that there was no other appropriate site available in a low-risk area: “This is the only site reasonably available to the owner.”

Ms Reid’s report added: “It is clear that TMG

have been seeking to identify a new site for consolidation of their activities for some time, indeed the FRA cites 10 years, going on to explain that this site represents the only viable and deliverable location.

“The specific location of this development is key to its importance and therefore it is not possible to use an alternative site.”

The demise of the old tree, which had become something of a cause celebre in the campaign to save the Teen and Twenty Club, was rubberstamped because it is suffering from bleeding canker which gives it a ‘limited life expectancy’.

Ms Reid stated: “I have no doubt that the loss of the tree will be notable in visual terms but this must be balanced against the wider benefits arising from the development of this site in the way proposed. Given the conclusions drawn ab out its relative longevity, I consider that the loss of the tree is justified.”

‘The opportunities for obtaining a lift or getting a taxi will need to be brought into play’ The centre will be run by Tonbridge Medical Group [TMG], replacing its existing surgeries on Higham Lane and Pembury Road.

It plans to cater for 225 appointments per day where the two other facilities were able to offer 150 between them.

The developer Assura, who will build the centre, was sold the land at below market value by the council and will continue to own it, with TMG renting it out.

Head of Planning Louise Reid noted that 16 spaces for patients was not ‘sufficient to meet demand’ – ‘the opportunities for using other town centre car parks, obtaining a lift from a relative or getting a taxi will need to be brought into play’.

She added that the six spaces set aside for doc-

GRAND PLANS: The three-storey centre will contain a pharmacy open seven days a week, from 7am to 8pm

Council criticised for turning to its cash reserves to balance the annual budget

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk THE borough council has been forced to dip into its cash reserves in order to produce a balanced budget of £66million that will see homeowners pay slightly more council tax from this year.

In a meeting last Wednesday [February 21] authority leaders claimed the rise, that will see Band D tenants pay an extra £4.98 a year, was within the context of financial pressures.

But opposition members attacked Tunbridge Wells Borough |Council [TWBC] for planning to spend a gross £90million on the controversial Civic Complex and theatre, while grants to some community groups could be cut.

The Conservative’s Portfolio Holder for Finance, Cllr David Reilly explained that: “Decisions are being made in some of the most unstable political and economic environments for some time.”

He outlined general inflation, additional unfunded legislative requirements and increasing pressures concerning finance from the Government, as three ‘significant funding pressures’ leading to a ‘widening gap between funding and demand’.

TWBC will also not receive a revenue support grant for the next financial year and the council will see a £302,000 Government cut to their New Homes Bonus.

To overcome these financial pressures the council will bring in £300,000 from the council tax rise, £321,000 in ‘proposed efficiencies’ and £250,000 from their Grant Volatility Reserve.

Sustainable

Priorties The Times previously has reported that TWBC is to introduce a £30-opt-in fee for residents wishing to have their garden waste collected and that its grants to 13 local community groups are to be cut by £255,000 by April 2020.

Cllr Reilly added: “While a balanced budget has been achieved, this is not the time to become complacent.

“The reserves and balance forecast depend on delivering sustainable balanced budgets for the future.”

Leader of the Labour group Cllr Dianne Hill said: “In this time of grave austerity this council is about to embark on an extravagant £90million [Civic Complex] project, which will cost taxpayers an extra £2.8million every year for 50 years.

“This council is planning to increase taxes, service charges and cut grants to all organisations that need our support.

“Never mind the levels of child poverty and crumbling infrastructure crying out for repair and supporting the businesses that we need.

“This budget does nothing to address our concerns or provide hope for our young people in the future.”

Leader of the opposition Liberal Democrat group Cllr Ben Chapelard said: “A properly balanced budget does not use reserves.

“The council is using its reserves to pay for its day to day maintenance and at some point they are going to run out.

“You talk about no cuts to major services but there is no definition of what a major service is.

An introduction of a garden waste charge is a cut to a major service.

“We are cutting grants to our community groups who need our support. We are only shifting the problem back to ourselves in the long term.

“I wish the council would address priorities rather than spending money on the Civic Development.”

The budget was passed by 34 votes to three, with four abstaining.

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Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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Accusations fly as heated debate precedes Civic Complex approval PLANS to build the £90million Civic Complex and theatre on land bordering Calverley Grounds remain divisive as Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] approved its Supplementary Planning Documents [SPD].

With members having voted 30 to 13 in favour of advanced plans at a meeting in December, the approval of these planning files was routine business at a meeting on Wednesday [February 21].

But the vote was preceded by a heated exchange between Robert Chris, chairman of pressure group TW Alliance, and Cllr Tracy Moore, Cabinet Member for Civic Development. It came during the ‘questions from the public’ stage.

Dr Chris said that department store Hoopers, whose car park could be compromised by the complex, had said they had not been in discussions with TWBC.

ALL WHITE NOW: A winning picture above from local resident Amy Hare who shot this in Southborough on Tuesday morning. To see more pictures of the scenic snow scenes around town visit www.theknow.guide

He said this was ‘at odds’ with Cllr Moore’s claim that ‘negotiations are ongoing’ and then asked her if Hoopers had lied, if she had lied, or if she had been misinformed.

Cllr Moore responded: “I am really disappointed the debate is being conducted in these terms.

“I do understand the different points of view but it is wholly inappropriate to make these kinds of allegations.

“We can debate the facts without descending into these deliberately provocative and personal attacks.

“Of course I haven’t lied. The council is not in a position to comment on statements made by third parties. Appropriate discussions have been held.

“You are entitled to your own opinion but not your own facts.”

Dr Chris then said that ‘no discussions had taken place’, Cllr Moore responded and claimed ‘this is an example of misogyny’ and ‘you are a bully’.

Later, Dr Chris added: “Cllr Moore chose to misinterpret this question as a statement alleging that I was accusing her of being a liar which, of course I was not.

“I have no basis for making a statement that would clearly be defamatory in the absence of evidence. I was just asking whether there was any evidence.

“Cllr Moore went on to accuse me of a number of things that had nothing to do with the points I was making.”

The Supplementary Planning Documents were passed by a show of hands.

ALLIANCE LEADER’S REQUEST DENIED… Even before the planning debate got underway there were tensions between the opposing sides.

TW Alliance chair Dr Robert Chris thought he might be too ill to attend the debate. He said he was currently undergoing chemotherapy for cancer and would have preferred to have had his questions to the council read out by a friend on his behalf but was told by Mayor Julia Soyke this was not possible.

He told the Times: “This heartless and ill-considered decision is more likely to be a political move to minimise the challenges from my questions and the supplementary questions I had planned.”

After he raised this point during the meeting, Cllr Tracy Moore said: “You were told by this council we would reply to your questions in writing and that the answers would appear in the minutes if you were unable to attend.”

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS: Craig Matthews

Provocative

Traffic chaos for motorists but a fun time for youngsters as schools are out Heavy snow brought mixed blessings across West Kent yesterday [Tuesday] with motorists having to abandon journeys to work while youngsters took to the slopes on their sledges as schools closed.

Overnight and early morning flurries quickly lead to slippery roads with a number of major routes becoming blocked including the Frant Road into Tunbridge Wells.

By late afternoon yesterday [Tuesday] Kent Police had reports of 185 collisions in the county. They also received 70 other weather related emergency calls as up to 10 centimetres of snow fell.

Hazardous Scores of schools were closed and Arriva suspended bus services in Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. Bin collections were also cancelled.

Southeastern, however, said it operated a mostly normal train service with just a handful of cancellations.

“This was because we took the decision to lengthen some trains to ensure they’re more reliable in snow and ice” explained a spokesman.

“We will need to make some further short notice changes in the coming week depending on the weather forecast.”

He advised passengers to check the Southeastern website for those changes.

Thousands of people heeded warnings about haz-

ardous road conditions and stayed at home with numerous offices, and shops, remaining empty.

Frustrated motorists who ventured out took to social media to complain about the state of the roads which prompted Kent County Council (KCC) to point out the crews of their 65 gritting lorries had ‘worked hard’ during the night covering 1,300 miles of road. In rural areas 117 tractors had been used to keep roads open.

KCC pledged that the lorries would be out again at

IS THROWING A SNOWBALL ILLEGAL? With many schools closed thousands of youngsters are enjoying the snow and taking part in snowball fights. But they have to be careful as a spokesman for Kent Police explains: “Throwing a snowball in general is not a crime but if snowballs are thrown which cause injury or permanent damage then that could be a criminal matter.

“It’s no different to throwing a stone.

Throw them in the sea, no problem. Throw them at a moving car and it’s a different result.

“It’s not a crime to play with snowballs as long as you don’t hurt anyone or property.”

midnight and from 7am on Wednesday morning.

Many of those who tried to drive were eventually forced to turn back. Typical was the experience of office worker Peter Miller who drives daily from Heathfield into Tunbridge Wells.

“I set out at 6.30am and after an hour had gone about 10 miles and reached Mark Cross,” he said.

“Driving conditions were appalling with cars sliding all over the road which eventually became blocked by vehicles.”

The Met Office forecasts further snow with temperatures expected to stay below freezing.

Weather watch WEDNESDAY Bitterly cold and turning windy through Wednesday with snow showers continuing during the morning, but it is expected to turn drier with some sunshine through the afternoon.

OUTLOOK FOR THURSDAY TO SATURDAY Thursday will be mostly cloudy and bitterly cold with a strong easterly wind. spells of snow are likely to spread from the south, often light but some heavier spells are possible at times. The snow may intensify again through Friday as it moves northwards.

Drier overnight. Cold again on Saturday with a risk of another spell of snow pushing from the south later in the day.

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March for women’s equality just as important today as 100 years ago

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk HUNDREDS are set to follow in the footsteps of Suffragettes and Suffragists by marching in Tunbridge Wells 100 years after some women were given the right to vote.

Talks, music and re-enactments have also been planned for the celebration, to be held on International Women’s Day next Thursday [March 8].

The organising group, TW Women 100, formed of a coalition of political and community bodies,

are keen to mark the achievements of prominent Suffragists, such as Amelia Scott, who played their part in a strong Tunbridge Wells movement to fight for equality.

Miss Scott, who was one of the town’s first female councillors, helped organise marches from Tunbridge Wells to Hyde Park for mass rallies in 1909 and 1913.

Carol Wilson, Chairperson of Labour Women’s Forum, has helped organise a shorter walk from The Pantiles to Tunbridge Wells Town Hall, which will be decorated with bunting in suffrage colours of purple, green and white as Mayor

Julia Soyke hosts a reception after the march.

There will also be events inside Royal Victoria Place and The Forum [see panel]. Donations collected at events will be given to Tunbridge Wells domestic abuse charity DAVSS [the Mayor’s chosen charity during her year in office].

Mrs Wilson said: “It is a time of looking back and appreciating what women have done all over the world and what women are suffering.

“There is a huge groundswell of women in Tunbridge Wells who worked hard on the Take Back The Night campaign [in the 1970s] against domestic violence.

‘It has been one hundred years and we are still marching’ Amanda Turner, Women’s Equality Party

“But there is still a huge amount of work to be done. We need to remind women that they need to be using their voice to vote.”

Amanda Turner, of Tunbridge Wells Women’s Equality Party, added: “We got the vote but we have not got equal representation yet. The movement is 100 years old and we are still marching. It is extraordinary that in 2018 we still do not have equality.

“We want to commemorate those

women 100 years on and say thank you to them, but the work is not done. We had the equal pay act 45 years ago, but figures show there is not equal pay.

“I think it’s interesting that Tunbridge Wells has always had such an active political presence from women.”

Suffragettes, the organisation made famous by Emmeline Pankhurst and Emily Davidson, had a strong presence in the town and, according to many, burnt down the cricket pavilion at the Nevill Ground after being told the women’s only place in the pavilion was ‘to make tea’.

Amelia Scott was one of a number of Suffragists, a group which also fought for change but through more peaceful measures. The group had around 450 members in Tunbridge Wells alone. Their work in the early 20th century helped pave the way for the 1918 Representation of the People Act, which allowed women aged over 30 and with £5 of property to vote.

Women were first able to vote in the December General Election of that year, which was also the first time women were permitted to stand for election.

Labour Councillor for Southborough and High Brooms Dianne Hill said: “We are expecting hundreds to come on the march next week. It is a WALK ORGANISER women’s event, but men Carol Wilson

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TIMETABLE OF EVENTS THE TW Women 100 International Women’s Day Walk will convene at The Pantiles Bandstand at 3.30pm and walk to No 11, The Pantiles, the site of the former Suffragette office at 3.45pm.

Following in the footsteps of a Suffragist protest march, the women will then walk from Chapel Place to Nevill Street, Mount Sion and the High Street.

At 4.35pm, marchers will gather by the former Suffragist Office in Crescent Road before returning by the same route towards Civic Way. Along the route marchers will see re-enactments and sing-songs, although members of the TW Women 100 organising committee have still to confirm some details.

Tunbridge Wells Mayor Julia Soyke will host an event inside the Town Hall from 4.45pm to 6pm which will welcome female speakers from a range of fields.

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WHO IS AMELIA SCOTT? Author Anne Carwadine, historian Liz Douglas and musician Charlotte Bartholomew are among those lined up to speak.

At 6pm, the Create Choir will sing inside the Council Chamber.

This is a ticketed event and places are available on a first come first served basis by emailing: mayor@tunbridgewells.gov.uk Afterwards, women are invited to Royal Victoria Place shoping centre for a reception.

Later the same day, The Forum, off London Road, Tunbridge Wells, will mark International Women’s Day musically with Laura Lamn, Placid and Lily & Jessie on the bill to perform from 7.30pm.

For tickets and more details, see www.twforum.co.uk For the latest on the International Women’s Day march on Thursday March 8 and other events, visit www.facebook.com/twwomen100

are welcome – they were supportive in women getting the vote as well. There will also be a march in December because that is when women could first vote. The idea first came from the Labour Women’s Forum but it is not a political thing at all. It is an event to bring women together.”

Gillian Douglass, Chairperson of Tunbridge Wells Liberal Democrats, said: “It is important to commemorate that women’s voices are heard and represented because they face different challenges from men and are often discriminated against.

“I believe that a world in which there is no gender discrimination is better for everybody.

“It means that we are not forced into roles which do not fit us particularly well, we are allowed or, perhaps, even encouraged to follow our dreams.”

Born in 1860, Amelia Scott was raised in Southborough and established the Tunbridge Wells branch of the National Council of Women in 1895.

Known as Millie to friends, she held a role within the organisation for 35 years alongside her profession as a social worker.

In 1913 she took part in a suffrage pilgrimage for the movement and was active in many aspects of LEADING LIGHT TW campaigner Amelia Scott

women’s work during the First World War. Following the Representation of the People Act in February 1918 which gave women the vote, Miss Scott continued to play an active role in the community.

She never married and shared a home with her sister Louise in Tunbridge Wells, where they lived for many years.

In November 1919, Miss Scott and Susan Power became the first two women to be elected to Tunbridge Wells Town Council. And from 1918 to 1924 she served on the legal subcommittee of the National Council for the Unmarried Mother and her Child.

Miss Scott was celebrated for her life’s work with a memorial window at the former Pembury Hospital painted in her honour.

She also received a Gold Palm Order of the Crown award in 1929 for her work with Belgian refugees.

Miss Scott died in 1952.

See also next page: A Google tribute to the Tonbridge Suffragists

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Tonbridge’s Suffragists are celebrated on Google map

By Andy Tong andy@timesoftonbridge.co.uk HISTORIAN Pam Mills has created a Google pin map to commemorate key figures in the campaign for the women’s vote in Tonbridge.

The centenary of the partial enfranchisement of women is being marked locally on International Women’s Day, March 8, and the map marks the homes of influential townsfolk who supported the cause and places where they spoke out.

They consist of members of the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies [NUWSS], known as ‘Suffragists’ – not

to be confused with the more militant ‘Suffragettes’ that hit the headlines.

They also included several men.

“It is right and proper we mark this as a milestone,” said Ms Mills. “The NUWSS

‘I have a parrot which has been taught to say to me in my own house, “no votes for women” ’ Lady Frances Balfour

was formed as non-militant and nonpolitical. It therefore enabled women, and men in fact, of all political leanings to come together for a common cause.”

The peaceful organisation held regu-

lar meetings and was led by a committee of ‘inspirational women’ who were important members of the community.

The committee was made up of several teachers from Tonbridge Grammar School for Girls, including the Headmistress, Jessie Taylor, and the wives of Tonbridge School masters. Mary Gorham, who was awarded an MBE for her work with women, was a regular attendee, and two sisters-in-law of Prime Minister Arthur Balfour gave speeches.

On one occasion, Lady Frances Balfour revealed: “I have a parrot which has been taught to say to me in my own house, ‘no votes for women’.”

Ms Mills explained: “Talks were given

PROMINENT ROLE Headmistress Jessie Taylor on various subjects, including equal pay and roles of women in work. So nothing has changed in 100 years!”

Angel Corner, at the junction of Vale Road and the High Street, provided the space for public speaking outdoors, while there were regular gatherings in buildings like the Public Hall at 178 High Street.

St Saviour’s Mission Hall on Shipbourne Road and St Eanswythe’s Mission off Priory Road also held occasional meetings.

Tonbridge-Tunbridge Wells featured

on the 1913 Suffragists’ pilgrimage to London. NUWSS ‘had 76 members and by the end another 68 joined’.

Marchers were met with hostility in Tonbridge, and one of their seasoned campaigners, Australian Muriel Matters, was shouted down at Angel Corner on July 21. According to the Tonbridge Free Press, she ‘greatly aroused the indignation of a great number of the male portion of the crowd’.

“Tonbridge was noted as the only town in Kent during this pilgrimage that had men heckle Muriel Matters.

The police had to intervene,” said Ms Mills. The former actress gained notoriety when she was imprisoned for chaining herself to a grille in the House of Commons.

Pam was helped in her research by fellow local historians Dave Swarbrick and Trisha Robyns, and Dr Anne Logan of the University of Kent.

She intends to recreate the vote in December using the ballot box from the 1918 election, and will be giving a talk on Suffragists at Mr Books, Tonbridge, on March 8 at 7.15pm. Call 01732 363000. For a link to the Google map, follow @PamidgeMills on Twitter.

PENSHURST PLACE IN FLAMES

ON THE MARCH (L-R) Lady Frances Balfour with fellow Suffragists Millicent Fawcett, Ethel Snowden, Emily Davies and Sophie Bryant

THE pin map includes a reference to an alleged arson attack on Penshurst Place. A newspaper report states baldly: “An attempt to destroy Penshurst Place… has been made by suffragettes.”

It was discovered petrol rags had been forced around the framework of the windows and ignited. Two drawing room and two billard room windows were set ablaze.

“Two women, in company it is believed with a man, made a hasty

departure from the neighbourhood of the castle, and suffragette literature was strewn about the lawn,” said Ms Mills. “It could be argued it was set up to discredit the campaigners for women’s votes.”

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Final phase of 1,000 homes project on flood plain gets the green light

By William Mata will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk AROUND 1,000 new homes are to be built in Paddock Wood after Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] approved the final tranche of proposed properties.

The Planning Committee voted eight to four in favour of the 309-home Mascalls Farm development on flood plain land last week, with members raising concerns that the town’s already struggling sewage and drainage systems can’t cope.

The new development follows the Church Farm and Mascalls Court Farm projects, set to deliver around 650 homes on nearby land in Paddock Wood, previously being approved in 2016.

Councils are under increasing pressure from central government to hit housing targets. Mascalls Farm will also include 35 per cent affordable housing [108 homes], with 70 per cent affordable rented and 30 per cent shared ownership.

A new primary school would be built as part of the planning agreements, with around £3.5million being spent on community projects.

The former farmland set aside for the three developments is within walking distance of Paddock Wood town centre and, being on a flood plain, is considered to have less of an environmental impact than building on green belt land would have.

Paddock Wood Town Councillor Carol Williams said that combined drainage systems and overloaded pumping stations often leave foul waste

water coming back into the downstairs toilets of some residents during wet weather.

She said: “Our concern is about the management of the sewage and foul waste with facilities already at capacity. The issue is that unless a new sewage pipeline is developed, or the pumping station is upgraded with new pipes, it is likely we will have increased events. I would propose for there to be a separate pipeline.

Collaboration “We have invited Southern Water [the firm in charge of waste water management] to meetings and they have agreed to meet with key stakeholders to find the best solution.”

TWBC is required to deliver hundreds of homes

BEFORE: THE EXISTING SITE Mascalls Farm is set to be harvested for new 309 homes

by 2026 as part of their Local Plan.

Planning Committee member Cllr Bob Backhouse said he was originally going to vote against Mascalls Farm, but changed his mind after assurances from Southern Water that they will provide appropriate drainage.

“It has been controversial for about ten years because there are problems to do with drainage of foul water,” he said. “Everyone is satisfied that the houses need to be built, but members of the council are concerned that Southern Water does not take its responsibility seriously.

“We have been assured that nobody can occupy any of the 1,000 homes until there is adequate sewage in place.

“This is the third of three developments planned for Paddock Wood because it is a significant contribution towards our housing target.

“We voted for it on the proviso that Southern Water fulfils its obligations to produce an adequate sewage system. I was originally going to vote against the plans.”

Alex Davies, Development Director at Berkeley Homes Eastern Counties, said the concerns of Paddock Wood residents had been accounted for.

“The Paddock Wood project has been sensitively designed in close collaboration with the relevant authorities, and we are delighted to be able to progress with the creation of this new residential neighbourhood for Paddock Wood.”

He further comented: “The scheme will not only introduce 309 high quality new homes to the town, but will also deliver funding to support primary and secondary schools in the area as part of a £3.5million contribution towards

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Wednesday February 28 | 2018

community and infrastructure provision.

“We have addressed concerns raised regarding flood risk, working with Southern Water and Kent County Council’s Flood and Water Management team throughout the application process,

and mitigation measures will be guaranteed by planning condition.”

The Times has approached Southern Water for a response and also Rydon Homes, the firm behind the Church Farm and Mascalls Court Farm projects.

THE TOWN THAT KEEPS ON GROWING WITH a current population of around 8,000, a development of around 1,000 homes would change the face of Paddock Wood.

The small town has one secondary school in Mascalls Academy as well as Paddock Wood Primary School, with another set to be built in the planned Mascalls Court Farm project.

There is a busy shopping centre, which includes a popular Waitrose.

Paddock Wood also benefits from having one of the best-served railway stations in the region,

with two services an hour to London and direct links to Ashford, Canterbury and Dover.

Town councillor Carol Williams told the Times that anyone moving into the new homes would likely seek work in the capital with little employment opportunity locally.

She said: “We are going to continue to grow and we are likely to see more development in the future. But we see no plan to increase employment locally, so this is going to create more demand on traffic and on the rail lines.”

AFTER: DEVELOPERS’ VISION An artist’s impression of Berkeley Homes on the Mascalls Farm site

HOW SOME OF THE £3.5MILLION WILL BE SPENT ON COMMUNITY PROJECTS BERKELEY HOMES, who are behind the 309property proposal, was unable to say how much the project would cost or when it could be built.

However, planning proposals, available on the Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] website, do show that Berkeley Homes is set to pay around £3.5million in Section 106 monies to the authority.

These payments will be transferred to several local projects in a planning agreement that

some people refer to as a ‘sweetener’.

Among the Section 106 projects is Mascalls Academy school, which is set to be expanded, plus improvements to Colts Hill roundabout.

The scheme is designed to help places like Paddock Wood cope with a significant growth in population.

In their Section 106 agreement, drawn up with TWBC to help reduce the impact of the plans, Berkeley Homes pledged the following:

AMOUNT

EXPLANATION

£347,328

Primary Education towards land costs for new primary school at Mascalls Court Farm

£601,749

Secondary Education (towards expansion of Mascalls Academy)

£82,119

Nursery school (towards provision of nursery facilities at new primary school at Mascalls Court Farm)

£14,836.89

Library (towards new book stock at Paddock Wood library)

£222,516

Healthcare contribution (towards doctors’ surgeries at Woodlands Medical Centre, Paddock Wood and/or Howell Surgery, High Street, Brenchley)

£230,205

Outdoor sport (towards sports pitch improvements at the Memorial Playing Fields, Putlands and/or for the provision of an outdoor sports hub to serve Paddock Wood)

£281,808

Indoor sport (towards Putlands Sports Centre)

£317,034

Community centre (towards the construction of a new community centre at the Memorial Playing Fields)

£408,788

Contribution towards the provision of improvements at the Badsell Road/ Maidstone Road signalised junction (to be refunded if minor scheme required to be implemented by developer)

£584,036

Contribution towards the provision of junction improvements at the Colts Hill roundabout (to be refunded if minor scheme required to be implemented by developer)

£298,333.34

Total contribution towards transport infrastructure improvements in Paddock Wood to include Paddock Wood Station improvements (cycle parking and pedestrian approach), footway and cycleway improvements, Commercial Road 20mph Zone, and bus stop provision)

£72,800

Contribution towards improvements to the local bus services, such as through the provision of a new community bus service

£10,000

Surface water drainage monitoring (towards the costs incurred by Kent County Council in reviewing an annual drainage report associated with the Surface Water Drainage Management Plan)

£19,200

Towards mitigation of impact on Foal Hurst Wood

£5,000

Public right of way improvements (e.g. way-marking, stiles) to the south of site, towards Matfield and Brenchley

NEWS

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BUSINESS

Local Business News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

TESTING TIMES (L-R) Nextdoor’s Nick Lisher, Max Chambers and Mark Gettleson

Former minister to talk at business seminar FINANCIAL planners AV Trinity will welcome former Pensions Minister Sir Steve Webb to talk at a public seminar on April 18.

Sir Steve, a former Liberal Democrat MP, pushed forward the pensions freedom regime during his time in government, which was from 2010 to 2015.

He will share insights at the free event at Trinity Theatre in Tunbridge Wells and lead a question and answer session.

To register attendance, visit the following website and click the advertisement at the top of the screen: www.avtrinity.com

How town played role in developing fast-growing neighbourhood app

By William Mata

Rise in jobseekers

will@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

MORE people are looking for work in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge than this time last year, according to Department for Work and Pensions [DWP] data.

Andrew Holmes, of DWP West Kent, said there are 665 people currently signing on in Tunbridge Wells borough and 785 in Tonbridge & Malling.

This is a respective rise of 105 and 25 for the towns. Mr Holmes said the collapse of multinational Carillion is not thought to have severely affected the local labour market.

USERS of the private social network Nextdoor are sharing local love rather than hate in Tunbridge Wells, according to the app’s Country Manager.

Four years after it launched and became a hit in the US, Nick Lisher, who lives in the St James’ ward, unveiled the UK version of the website and smartphone application in September 2016.

He said Nextdoor, which promotes conversation, information and requests between neighbours, is now used by around ten per cent of households in Tunbridge Wells.

“We are working to build social cohesion and bring people together online,” Mr Lisher told the Times.

“We have found that neighbourhoods in the UK which are more engaged [in THANKS FOR communication] are SHARING using Nextdoor.”

App boss While Facebook Nick Lisher and WhatsApp offer

Director takes role AUDIT, tax and consulting firm RSM has boosted their South East mergers and acquisitions team by appointing Sarah Barry as a Director.

Ms Barry has moved from her role with the company in London and will be based in RSM’s Tunbridge Wells offices, and will also work in their Bromley, Guildford and Gatwick locations.

residents the chance to share messages in localised groups, Mr Lisher said Nextdoor breaks down to the next level, with users seeing posts unique to their ward and even their street.

Logging on to the ‘Tunbridge Wells Town’ group, for example, users can see discussions about the Civic Complex, events advertised and items for sale.

A unique aspect of Nextdoor is that only residents within a neighbourhood can gain access to the localised discussion.

This is set-up by users entering their postcode and then being sent a postcard with a verification code, which needs to be entered correctly in order for Nextdoor to work.

Plumber In the UK, the free app does not contain advertising, but this is likely to change to a model similar to the US equivalent, which contains Facebook-style ads.

Mr Lisher continued: “Madeira Park in Tunbridge Wells is very active with around 70 or 80 members. They can be a strong community connection and have, for example, put forward a recommendation for a plumber.

“Two friends selling sourdough pizza in Tunbridge Wells from a van tripled their sales after a happy customer posted on Nextdoor.

“There is also a lady who started a supper club for neighbours to enjoy her Indian food.”

He was unable to say exactly how many users there are in Tunbridge Wells, other than the fact it covers every ward.

Nextdoor was launched nationally after a series of test runs where small communities, like the Kent village Pluckley, trialled the app.

The dark side of social media in general has seen the potential for it to provide platforms for online bullying and malicious gossip.

Mr Lisher said: “Trolling in this way is about anonymity. We require users to verify their address and use their full name, which eliminates 95 per cent of trolls.

“We allow discussion around election time, but we try to promote a focus on local issues.”

Local Business News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

BUSINESS

11

THE brewery Toast Ale believes that to change the world you have to throw a better party than those destroying it.

And more companies could be looking to follow their ethical example by donating a large percentage of their profits to charities, according to

the firm’s Chief Executive, Rob Wilson.

The Tonbridge-raised ‘Chief Toaster’, as he is called, has spent two years networking and speaking in West Kent to raise the profile of Toast, whose primary goal is to reduce food waste.

He said this is to help combat the 24 million slices of bread thrown away every day in the UK from unsold loaves or the parts of a loaf that would not make a nice sandwich.

CHIEF TOASTER Rob Wilson enjoys a beer with a message

PHOTO: Fred McGregor

Expanding Each bottle of their beer contains one slice of bread that would otherwise be binned by supermarkets and bakeries, with their website claiming that 44 per cent of our bread is wasted.

Mr Wilson said of Toast’s rise: “We have been growing in a relatively unconventional way.

“We have quite quickly been stocked in supermarket chains and alternative bottle shops, and we are now selling a craft larger, pale ale and an IPA.” Toast was established in Hackney in 2015 and is now sold in stores across the country, with all of the profits going to their partner charity Feedback – which also campaigns to end food waste.

Mr Wilson said Toast is now expanding internationally, but the eventual aim would be for the firm to go out of business because there is no longer any waste bread.

He continued: “It is an authentic and ethical cause by which we are trying to eliminate food waste.

“We are not trying to be holier than thou, but believe it is a serious issues for which we are raising awareness.

“Consumers are looking for this. It is important to have a principal message and promote something we care about.

“I think it is a no-brainer for companies.”

PHOTO: Emily Brown

Brewery earns its daily bread battling food waste ROYAL WOMEN (L-R) Networking group members Debbie Harris, Sharon Wood, Siobhan Stirling, Emily Brown and Lynne Gadsden

Wonder-women from networking group could win business awards

By Duncan Audsley FIVE women from the Tunbridge Wells networking group BNI Royal Spa have been shortlisted for prizes in the 2018 Kent Women in Business Awards.

The ceremony, to be held in Maidstone on March 9, will see 17 awards handed out for business innovation, achievement and success.

BNI Royal Spa President Debbie Harris is up for Entrepreneur of the Year award for her work with home healthcare service Chosen with Care.

She said: “There have been a record number of entries to the Kent Women in Business Awards this year.

“The fact that five of our members have been shortlisted in eight categories is a real testimony to the business, entrepreneurial and leadership skills of our female members.”

Emily Brown, 24, who runs her own Emily Brown

Photography business, has been shortlisted for Young Businesswoman of the Year and Contribution to the Community, for her work for the charity Hospice in the Weald.

Thrilled She said: “I am thrilled to have been shortlisted only two years after graduating and starting my business.”

The list of potential winners also includes: Siobhan Stirling of Sharp Minds Communications for the PR and Marketing Award; Lynne Hadsen, who runs Grovewood Wealth Management, in the Leadership and Management category, and Sharon Wood, who runs Colonnade Florist, has been shortlisted for Businesswoman of the Year (over five years) and Service Excellence.

For the full list, see: www.kwibawards.co.uk

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NEWS

Community News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Dance night at Salomons will help buy Stanley physio vest SALOMONS is holding a charity evening on Friday March 23 called Stand Up For Stanley to raise funds for two-year-old Stanley Jump [below], who suffers from cystic fibrosis.

The condition causes thick mucus to clog up Stanley’s lungs, and the event organisers are hoping to raise £7,000 so his parents Rob and Vikki can buy a physio vest.

‘Using the vest should result in fewer infections, an improved lung function and a better quality of life’ This piece of equipment vibrates the chest, breaking down the mucus, so the patient can breathe more easily.

Using the vest should result in fewer infections, an improved lung function and a better quality of life.

Born in September 2015, Stanley lives in Tunbridge Wells but had

to spend his first Christmas in a high dependency unit at King’s College Hospital in south London.

At one stage he caught bronchitis, which caused a lung to collapse.

The evening at the Southborough venue will feature a 70s and 80s disco.

Entry costs £10, which includes a fish and chip supper and a drink.

If you would like to attend, please visit Stanley’s fundraising page below and donate £10 for each ticket you wish to purchase (plus Gift Aid).

Please ensure your name and the amount donated are not hidden so the organisers can track your donation.

Visit www.youcaring.com/ stanleyjump-904434 Your tickets will be sent to you if you then email your postal address to: events@ markerstudy.com MUCH-NEEDED SUPPORT A physio vest will help Stanley breathe

ART OF COOL Sylvia and Daniel get to grips with the snow

The indoor snowmen who took residents back in time RESIDENTS at Ashurst Park Care Home near Tunbridge Wells were creating snowmen indoors after waking up to find the gardens covered in white.

Carers went outside to collect buckets of snow from the grounds of the home, which is

near the village of Fordcombe, so residents could sit in the warmth of their lounge and create mini snowmen in comfort.

Care Assistant Daniel said: “It was lovely seeing everyone’s excitement over the snow, but because it was absolutely

freezing outside we decided to bring the snow indoors to make snowmen.

“Our residents had a great time together reminiscing about how they used to love playing in the snow when they were younger.”

Brewery rolls out the barrel for air ambulance charities

FLYING COLOURS: Hall & Woodhouse staff and air ambulance crew celebrate their partnership outside the brewery. (L-R) Lauren Dyson, Neil Bizzell, Lucinda Gray, Debra Reed, Ollie Zorab and Dan Tucker

BREWERS Hall & Woodhouse are aiming to raise £250,000 for the Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust and seven of its sister organisations across the south.

A total of 51 of their public houses are supporting the lifesaving charities through quiz nights, sponsored events, fun days and sports tournaments.

Their local pubs include The Brickmakers Arms, Uckfield, The Huntsman, Eridge and the Foresters Arms, Fairwarp.

The Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance provides an emergency medical service which

costs £6.5million a year to run.

The charity relies almost entirely on fundraising and donations.

Lucinda Gray, from the sixth generation of the Woodhouse family and Charity Champion at the independent brewery, said: “As a company that places the community at the heart of our business, supporting worthy causes is very important to Hall & Woodhouse.

“These air ambulance charities cover the counties where our public houses are located, and they work tirelessly to care for critically ill or injured pat-

ients within our community. We are extremely proud to have so many of our public houses backing the partnership and supporting this wonderful cause.”

Delighted Julie Clare, Head of Corporate Relations at Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance, said: “We are delighted that the team at Hall & Woodhouse voted to support us.

“This is a new and exciting partnership that will allow us to reach out to so many people in the local community.”

Community News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

NEWS

13

Knit a chick for Hospice in the Weald or buy them for your Easter egg hunt THE Hospice in the Weald is calling on local people to get out their needles and balls of wool and take part in its Knit-aChick Campaign – or visit its shops to buy them.

In the run-up to Easter, the charity is providing a pattern to follow – each chick is designed to hold a chocolate egg inside.

They are currently on sale at the hospice reception and in its 27 charity shops for £2 each, including the egg.

The hospice is encouraging knitters to come up with creations in any colour, ‘the quirkier, the better’.

Entries must be received by March 15. The chicks can be dropped off at the hospice itself or posted to the Knit-a-Chick Campaign, Hospice in the ­ Weald, Maidstone Road, Pembury TN2 4TA. Michelle Jueno, Relationship Fundraising Assistant at the hospice, said: “We have had more than 1,000 chicks knitted so far by members of the public, knitting groups, members of staff, volunteers and patients in our Hospice Day Service and Hospice in the Home. It’s taken off in a really big way.

“We’re also starting to receive

some funkier chicks who have been made in different colours and have crazy hairstyles or googly eyes, so ­ everyone has really got behind the fun aspect of the campaign.”

She added: “People can either purchase individually, or if someone would like a supply to sell on a stall or market on our behalf that would be great, too.”

For more information, call Michelle on 01892 820491 or email: michelle.jueno@ hospiceintheweald.org.uk To download a pattern, visit www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk/ fundraise/event/knit-a-chick

TEAMWORK (L-R) Porchlight’s Rachel van Hoven and Zara Hamid with Rotary President Robert Greenhalgh and the club’s race organiser, Andy Blundell

Tonbridge Half Marathon runners help Porchlight to look after town’s homeless FUNDS raised by the Tonbridge Half Marathon are being used to help a local charity fight the town’s worsening homelessness situation.

Race organisers Tonbridge Rotary Club and Lions have given £2,500 to Porchlight, which helps people who are homeless and operates a hostel in the area.

Contrast

EGG-STRAVAGANZA: Chicks with chocolates are out in force at the Hospice in the Weald’s charity shops

The charity recently released figures showing that it worked with 16 rough sleepers in the town between April and December 2017.

In stark contrast, Porchlight had supported only

four people sleeping on the streets over the same period the previous year.

Porchlight spokesman Chris Thomas said: “We’re very grateful to Tonbridge Rotary Club, Lions Club and all the runners for raising these vital funds.

“Another year of increased homelessness across the whole of Kent has seen our services stretched like never before.”

He added: “Generous donations like this help fund our street team, who go out night after night in search of homeless people to bring in from the cold. Thank you to everybody who has supported us via the half marathon.”

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NEWS

County News

GIBLIN PRIZE Jon-Allen Butterworth, MBE

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Consultation on adult care services launched so council can save £10m ADULT social care services are set to be cut as East Sussex County Council [ESCC] seeks to save £10million.

The authority, which covers Frant and Crowborough, has launched a public consultation on how savings can be made.

ESCC has earmarked these services to bear the brunt of the total £17million cut as defined in their 2018/19 budget.

Cllr Carl Maynard, ESCC Cabinet Member for Health, blamed central government cutbacks on the authority having ‘limited resources’.

He said: “We cannot continue to provide all the services we have provided historically. Our statutory duty to deliver certain

services means we are extremely limited in the areas where we can make savings.

“In the coming year we will spend £166million across whole of the county, and will be working with health service professionals to provide the very best service for residents.

Proposals “But we are in the eighth year of spending cuts and what we do spend we need to focus very, very carefully on the most vulnerable and those with the greatest need.”

ESCC has listed three proposals in the consultation, which runs until April 25.

These are: Reviewing county council funding for services delivered by the Stroke Association; reducing the council’s contribution to carer services; and Reviewing Milton Grange and Firwood House intermediate care services.

Cllr Maynard added: “No decisions have been made on these proposals and I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the consultation.”

To take part, visit www. eastsussex.gov.uk/haveyoursay

HEALTH MATTERS Cllr Carl Maynard

Bronze sculpture for gold medal-winning Superstore could be coming to county town site next year Paralympic cyclist THE achievements of Paralympic cycling medallist Jon-Allen Butterworth have been celebrated with the unveiling of a sculpture.

Wadhurst artist Louise Giblin created the body cast using bronze from Livingstone Art Founders in Matfield and presented it to the 32 year old from Birmingham last week.

After losing his left arm during his service in Iraq in 2007, Butterworth took up para-cycling and won three silver medals in the 2012 games in London. He backed this up with gold in the mixed team sprint event at the 2016 games in Rio. Mr Butterworth said: “This captures ten very important years of my life, from the explosion in Iraq when I was 21 to my gold medal in Rio and the MBE I received because of that.”

PLANS to build one of the country’s largest Marks and Spencer [M&S] stores near Maidstone could soon be approved.

Developer Gallagher Properties wants to build the store at Eclipse Park, near Junction 7 of the M20.

Investment Proposals state the M&S would contain a food court, fashion department, a café and homewear.

It would create 300 full-time and part-time jobs.

The cost of the project has not been stated. It would be built alongside the existing Next outlet.

Maidstone Borough Council will grant or refuse planning permission later this year, following a public exhibition which was held on Thursday [February 22].

Nick Yandle of Gallagher Properties said: “The combination of a Marks & Spencer and Next at Eclipse Park would improve Maidstone’s retail offer as the county town to local residents and people from across a wider area of Kent.

“This investment by Marks & Spencer would also reinforce the area around Junction 7 and its importance to the borough’s economy.

“It would send out a positive

SHAPING UP An artist’s impression of the M&S store

message about the town as a location for business, and we are delighted to be working alongside such a nationally respected company.”

The Marks & Spencer proposals follow a decision by Waitrose not to

proceed following the granting of planning permission by Maidstone Borough Council in May 2017.

If the new M&S plans are passed the store could open as soon as autumn next year.

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NEWS

National News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Only seven tower blocks out of 301 have had ACM cladding removed THE number of high-rises in England with Grenfell-style cladding has passed 300, but only seven social housing blocks have had the material removed, new Government figures show.

Some 301 out of 314 buildings over 18m with Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding are unlikely to meet current building regulations guidance and pose fire hazards, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said.

More than half, 158, are social housing blocks, managed by either local authorities or housing associations.

The Government said ‘remediation work’ is under way on 92 buildings, and has been completed on seven.

Russian divorcee wins her £453million share A RUSSIAN housewife who was awarded £453million by a London divorce court judge after her marriage to a Russian billionaire businessman ended has won the latest round of a legal battle.

Tatiana Akhmedova was given a 41.5 per cent share of Farkhad Akhmedov’s £1billion-plus fortune by Mr Justice Haddon-Cave following a hearing in the Family Division of the High Court.

The award is thought to be the biggest made by a divorce court judge in England.

Mr Akhmedov said he had married Mrs Akhmedova in Russia and the marriage was dissolved there, adding that British courts should not ‘interfere’.

“I am neither surprised nor disappointed by this ruling, even though I had hoped that the higher court might have shown some impartiality,” said Mr Akhmedov in a statement.

LIFE ON THE STREETS 8,000 slept rough in London in 2017

Tory MP blames tenancy changes for rise in people sleeping rough A CONSERVATIVE MP has said the Government’s welfare reductions are one of the causes of homelessness.

Bob Blackman, the member for Harrow East, said it was a ‘national scandal’ that people are ‘sleeping rough on our streets in this day and age’.

He was speaking during an estimates day debate on the spending of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on homelessness.

Mr Blackman said: “The causes of homelessness are varied, but the predominant reason is the end to an assured shorthold tenancy.

“In the long-term the answer is longer tenancies, more housing and reducing the cost of temporary accommodation in this country.”

Labour’s Neil Coyle revealed that a teenage woman in his constituency was ‘sleeping with different men every night’ to avoid being on the streets.

Accusing And the MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark said he has also met a 65-year-old woman who works as a cleaner but sleeps on night buses and carries her belongings with her.

He shared the cases of those who visit him at his advice surgeries before accusing the Government of having ‘abdicated its responsibility’ to help.

Mr Coyle said homelessness has risen every year since 2010, labelling it ‘avoidable and appalling’, adding: “It is now estimated 8,000 people slept

rough in London alone last year.

“Shelter estimate over 300,000 people were in temporary accommodation last year including, as we’ve heard, 120,000 children waking up on Christmas Day often in unsuitable places, perhaps sharing a bathroom or kitchen with strangers.”

Mr Coyle blamed Government policies for contributing to the increase, including council funding cuts and drug and alcohol cessation services being ‘decimated’.

He went on: “Costs are rising, Southwark Council spent £3 million tackling homelessness last year, both upfront help to prevent people from losing their homes and tackling rough sleeping.”

SPORT IN BRIEF

Winter break on cards THE Premier League has reiterated its willingness to consider a winter break.

It is understood that an agreement has been reached between the Premier League, the Football Association and the Football League for an annual break in early February from the 2019-2020 season by playing FA Cup fifth-round fixtures midweek, and without replays.

Premier League fixtures would then be scheduled across two weekends so each team is given a break of at least 13 days, but without the competition entirely halting.

Hamilton misses testing LEWIS HAMILTON missed a full day of Formula One’s pre-season testing in Barcelona.

The defending world champion had been scheduled to take to the wheel of his Mercedes at the Circuit de Catalunya before his team changed their minds.

Hamilton completed only 25 laps here on the opening day, and with snow forecast the British driver could miss out on valuable mileage.

Topley for one-day only REECE TOPLEY is the latest England international to turn his back on the first-class game and commit only to white-ball cricket.

The fast bowler has signed for Hampshire for the 2018 season and will only be available for limited-overs cricket.

The 24-year-old follows in the footsteps of international team-mates Adil Rashid and Alex Hales in making themselves unavailable for the County Championship.

National News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

BATTLE THE ELEMENTS Stationery traffic on the M20 near Ashford

300 jobs go as Ryanair checks out of Glasgow HUNDREDS of jobs are under threat after budget airline Ryanair announced it is to close its base at Glasgow Airport.

The number of routes operated from Glasgow will be reduced from 23 to three, with five being transferred to Edinburgh.

The airline said it had run out of patience waiting for the Scottish Government to reduce Air Passenger Duty (APD) tax. Chief Commercial Officer David O’Brien said 300 indirect jobs could be lost, with a potential fall in around 500,000 passengers.

He said: “Sadly the weaker Scottish market is even weaker still in Glasgow which simply can’t bare the burden of APD at £13.”

Theatre stages revival LONDON’S theatre industry enjoyed a record year in 2017, with attendances topping 15 million for the first time.

Hit shows such as Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, The Book Of Mormon and Wicked all helped secure the best year since the Society Of London Theatre (SOLT) began collecting audience data in 1986.

Box office revenues exceeded £700million, with the average ticket costing £46.71.

Mirren presents Oscars DAME Helen Mirren and Emily Blunt will join the star-studded line-up of presenters for this weekend’s 90th Academy Awards.

The British stars have been announced alongside other new additions including Sandra Bullock, Jodie Foster, Ashley Judd, Nicole Kidman, Lupita Nyong’o, Matthew McConaughey and Christopher Walken.

More than 300 schools forced to shut doors as snow hits the south KENT was heavily affected by the snowfall overnight from Monday to Tuesday, more than five times as many schools being forced to close as any other county.

A total of 339 schools were shut, compared with 62 in East Sussex. Elsewhere Norfolk saw 36 closures, North Yorkshire 29, Lancashire 27 and West Yorkshire 22.

Delays The hazardous conditions also caused major travel disruption. Slow-moving traffic caused delays on the M2 westbound between junctions seven and five.

Three people were killed in a crash in Lincolnshire when a car collided with a lorry, and a man died and another person suffered lifethreatening injuries after three crashes involving the same car in Cambridgeshire.

Another person was injured and the A120 in Essex was partially closed after a 17-car pile-up

between Colchester and Elmstead Market.

The AA said dozens of stranded motorists had to be pulled from snow drifts on Tuesday morning. Amber and yellow snow and ice warnings are in place across the South East, North East, the Midlands and the east of England.

National Rail Enquiries said severe weather was affecting services on Southeastern, London Overground, c2c, Greater Anglia, South Western Railway, Stansted Express and TfL Rail.

London Overground is running a strippedback service, with between two and four trains per hour on many routes, and no services on other lines, such as between Romford and Upminster.

British Airways cancelled dozens of flights from Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, while easyJet said it is expecting some disruption.

British Airways said in a statement it was preparing for adverse weather from Monday [February 26] to March 2, saying it was ‘likely to affect some of our short-haul and domestic flights’.

NEWS

17

Carillion under fire for ignoring Mercer the ‘whistleblower’ MPs have launched fresh attacks against directors of Carillion for not listening to alarms being raised about the state of the company before it collapsed.

New information published by the Work and Pensions and Business Select Committees revealed that Emma Mercer was raising concerns about the accounts she found just six weeks into her job last year as Financial Director of Construction Services.

Minutes of board meetings described her as ‘whistleblowing’, said the MPs, adding that her revelations threw up serious questions, not least for Carillion’s auditors, KPMG. Mrs Mercer’s concerns triggered a review of contracts, although the board’s initial decision to have an independent element was later reconsidered.

Frank Field, who chairs the Work and Pensions Committee, said: “Emma Mercer took just six weeks to spot and pull the thread that began the entire company unravelling.”

CALLED TO ACCOUNT Emma Mercer, former Finance Director, and Richard Howson, former Chief Executive

National Business News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

GKN fends off merger while planning for split

Comcast launches takeover bid for Sky to trump struggling Fox

PROFITS at takeover target GKN have more than doubled as the engineering group updated on plans to fend off a hostile bid from Melrose Industries.

The aerospace-to-automotive group saw pre-tax profits soar to £658million in 2017, up from £292million for the same period the year before.

GKN firmed up the timings on Project Boost - its plan to persuade investors not to back Melrose’s £7.4billion bid - saying a proposal to separate GKN Aerospace and GKN Driveline into two listed companies would be set for mid-2019.

COMCAST, owner of NBC and Universal Pictures, has made a £22.1billion takeover approach for Sky in an attempt to trump 21st Century Fox’s efforts to seize full control of the UK broadcaster.

The US media giant behind cable channels MSNBC and CNBC is eyeing a possible cash offer of £12.50 per share, a 16 per cent hike on Fox’s bid of £10.75 a share.

The group wants to snap up a majority stake in the Game Of Thrones broadcaster - more than 50 per cent - and was confident a deal would be given the green light by regulators.

Toys R Us faces tax bill

Such a move would place Sky at the centre of a full-blown takeover tussle, with Rupert Murdoch’s Fox struggling to buy the 61 per cent of the broadcaster it does not already own due to mounting regulatory hurdles.

Comcast said its offer would be a 13 per cent premium of Sky’s closing share price of £11.05 on Monday [February 26].

Its Chairman and Chief Executive Brian Roberts called Sky ‘an outstanding company’, saying: “We think that Sky would be very valuable to us as we look to expand our presence inter-

TOYS R Us UK could fall into administration this week if it fails to pay a £15million tax bill.

Administrator Moorfields is understood to be waiting in the wings as the toy seller attempts to find a buyer before hitting the payment deadline on a hefty VAT bill.

Toys R Us, which employs around 3,200 staff in the UK, is understood to have struggled with cash flow pressures after sales were squeezed by worse-than-expected trading over the crucial Christmas period.

Hurdles

nationally.

“We would like to own the whole of Sky and we will be looking to acquire over 50 per cent of the Sky shares.”

He added: “We are confident that we will be able to receive the necessary regulatory approvals. If successful, the acquisition will enhance our free cashflow per share in the first year.

“The UK is and will remain a great place to do business. We already have a strong presence in London and Comcast intends to use Sky as a platform for our growth in Europe. We intend to maintain and enhance Sky’s business.”

Shares in Sky surged more than 18 per cent in morning trading on the London Stock Exchange following the announcement.

Comcast, which has a broadband arm serving 29 million US customers, said international revenues would surge by between 9 and 25 per cent if the deal goes ahead.

It also pledged to ensure the future of Sky News, a flashpoint in Fox’s £11.7billion takeover bid because of regulatory concerns over Mr Murdoch’s dominance over UK media.

The Comcast move comes after the UK competition watchdog found Fox’s deal to buy Sky was ‘not in the public interest’.

Greggs look internally

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HOME SWEET HOME Persimmon was ‘oustanding’ in 2017

Persimmon profits jump amid demand for new housing HOUSEBUILDING giant Persimmon has revealed that annual profits jumped by a quarter and said it ‘encouraged’ by the start to 2018 despite Brexit uncertainties.

Shares in the group - which also owns the Charles Church and Westbury Partnerships brands - raced more than 10 per cent ahead after it revealed a bumper £966.1million bottom-line profits haul for last year, boosted by booming demand for new builds.

On an underlying basis, pre-tax profits were also up 25 per cent, at £977.1million.

Furore

GREGGS has reported lower annual profits amid rising costs, but the high street chain said 2018 would be the ‘peak year’ for internal investments meant to help transform the business.

The baked goods retailer said pre-tax profits fell from £75.1million in 2016 to £71.9million last year, despite reporting a 7.4 per cent rise in total sales to £960million over the 12 months to December 30.

Its earnings were knocked by an exceptional charge of £9.9million linked to a major investment programme meant to reshape its internal supply chain.

Provident’s investor call TROUBLED subprime lender Provident Financial has announced a £331million investor cash call after being ordered to pay almost £171million in fines and compensation over mis-selling at its Vanquis Bank arm.

The Financial Conduct Authority fined credit card lender Vanquis £2million and ordered it to pay £168.8million in compensation for failing to disclose charges of its popular repayment option plan.

BUSINESS

UNDER SCRUTINY: Rupert Murdoch dominates UK media

Newly appointed acting Chairman Nigel Mills, who took on the role on an interim basis on Monday [February 26] after Nicholas Wrigley stepped down, praised an ‘outstanding’ performance for 2017.

He said the start of the 2018 spring season had also been ‘encouraging’, with the group’s private sales rate per site up 7 per cent and average selling prices 2 per cent ahead at £234,106, with overall pricing conditions remaining firm.

But the results come after a furore over executive pay packets at the group, with bosses last week agreeing to hand back around £50million in bonuses. It slashed Chief Executive Jeff Fairburn’s near £100million award by £25million.

Following mounting pressure from politicians and some shareholders over the long-term incentive plan introduced by the company six years ago, with the firm having been boosted by the Government’s Help to Buy scheme.

The pay controversy led to the resignations of chairman Mr Wrigley and remuneration committee Chairman Jonathan Davie late last year.

Persimmon’s profits leap comes after it reported last month that revenues for the full year were up 9 per cent to £3.42billion, after completions of new homes rose 6 per cent to 16,043.

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NEWS

Letters

Wednesday February 28 | 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 Town could be streets ahead but instead we’re on the road to ruin They used to say that the British chose to drive on the left because the French decided on the right. Whether true or not, people are united in saying that we actually now drive on whatever part is left of the road!

Let’s face it, the UK’s roads are in a shocking state. Why is this? Perhaps short-term rather than long-term planning, incompetent management, an unmotivated workforce, underfunding, wastage of funds, utility companies always digging them up – to suggest just a few.

A case in point is the recent work on Mount Edgcumbe Road. Why is it always a ‘bodge and fix’ and ‘that will do’ approach to road maintenance these days? This looks awful.

No doubt in around two years’ time it will need doing again with yet more public money getting wasted.

I drive a lot in Europe, and whether in the Czech Republic, Poland, Spain, Greece, etc. their roads are generally much better than ours.

Yet via EU funding, which country’s contributions have no doubt been used to pay for much of these improvements to the infrastructure elsewhere within Europe?

Of course, the good old ‘money bags’ that the UK has become to them – at a time when we apparently can’t afford to keep our own

Don’t throw The Bridge Trust out with the bathwater I was very concerned to read in the Times of Tonbridge [February 21] that Kent County Council [KCC] is to change funding and management support of homeless charities on a countywide basis.

This will seriously affect the great work of The Bridge Trust [charity], who support the homeless in our area.

I trust Cllr Graham Gibbens, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, will reconsider any funding changes that will damage the operations of this fine service charity.

I trust that Cllrs Richard Long and Michael Payne, our town’s representatives at County Hall, will both seek to ensure The Bridge Trust receives adequate funding.

I am surprised that Cllr Gibbens is contemplating removal of funding from such a great charity in a year when the county is putting the rates up by 5 per cent, and after their Members’ Allowances have had a major increase.

Councillor David Cure Conservative representive for Judd Ward Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council

Votes are history in the making It was good to read the recent piece in the Times of Tonbridge [February 7] celebrating 100 years of [some] women having had the vote.

Sadly, many women in Tonbridge do not use their vote.

This is because we are a ‘safe’ Conservative

PATCHWORK Mount Edgcumbe Road repairs ‘look awful’ infrastructure in good order.

Tunbridge Wells tries to attract visitors to help its local economy, but who wants to come here when the roads are in an appalling state?

What do foreign visitors think? We should be totally embarrassed.

T J Beach Via email seat. A vote for any other party is considered a wasted vote, so people do not see any point in voting at all.

In UK general elections we have the ‘first past the post’ system, which ensures that one of the larger parties, either Labour or Conservative, will always be in power; even though the majority of voters may not have voted for them!

I think this is wrong.

It would be much better to have a ‘proportional representation’ system such as that used in the London Assembly, Scottish and Welsh assemblies, Australia, Norway, and many European countries.

This system would make votes matter, and make our country truly democratic.

Having finally won the vote, women (and men) need to campaign to make that vote meaningful.

Fran Long Secretary Tonbridge & Malling Green Party

More like tyranny than democracy The planning application for the Civic Complex and new theatre should be rejected and withdrawn.

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council [TWBC] seems to have fallen into the trap set by the Treasury’s Public Works Loan Board offering long-term loans to local councils at low interest rates and with few questions being asked.

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy has warned TWBC about this and said that it will become one of the more heavily borrowed councils in the UK.

It would almost entirely exhaust its borrowing capacity on just one project.

Northamptonshire County Council has recently become insolvent by treading this route, having borrowed a similar sum to TWBC. The Treasury warns other councils are heading in the same direction.

There are many fallacies in this proposal: Tunbridge Wells is a relatively short train journey from the West End. Canterbury Marlowe [theatre] is not a good comparator on many fronts.

The Assembly Hall is already accommodating touring companies and large productions for opera, etc., and could be improved.

Existing council office space can easily be modernised and any excess let.

There is no need for underground car parking.

The Hoopers access problem is undefined and no estimate of any compulsory purchase order cost is available to the public. Loss of jobs is a major issue for Tunbridge Wells.

There appears to be active suppression of full and open discussion by TWBC. This is to be abhorred. It is more like tyranny than democracy.

Ann and John Pickering Tunbridge Wells

Come and park where you like…

Two stories piqued my interest in your paper of February 14.

A new ‘Welcome to Tunbridge Wells’ map shows, among other things, where to park.

However, it is sadly deficient because it fails to show every side street and residential street is available, with the active connivance of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. In Royal Tunbridge Wells you can park anywhere.

Side by side with this is Kent County Council Leader Paul Carter’s annual weasel words about yet another rise in council tax, accompanied by much wringing of hands.

John Ward Moorhouse Tunbridge Wells

On the rewarding track to retirement So Chief Inspector Pate is retiring at the age of 50 [Times February 14], which is nice – as they used to say on The Fast Show.

He was paid about £53,000 per annum, which is nice.

He will receive a pension equal to his final salary, which is also nice.

How the other – public sector – half lives.

Ralph Steerpike Tunbridge Wells

Penny, we fell under your spell Poor Penny Mordaunt, how she suffers with her name: Your paper had it as both Mordent and, correctly, Mordaunt [February 14].

That’s only marginally better than Channel 4 News, which had it as Mordent, Morduant and Maudent.

I note that her name derives from the word ‘biter’ – perhaps she should start biting back.

Joseph Howard Tunbridge Wells

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

ACTION Cinema site

MESSAGE to esteemed Tunbridge Wells Council Leader David Jukes: “Sir, please look out of your Town Hall window and you’ll see that engineers have turned up at the old cinema site that is smack opposite you.”

Being a bit of a cynic when it comes to the infamous grot spot [who is not?], Cllr Jukes has stated more than once that he won’t believe the end of the eyesore is in sight until he sees workmen digging the ground. “Are you now, sir, a believer?” Probably not, and who could blame him after so many false dawns?

PHONES ringing at head office with claims of a serious ‘typo’ in this august publication.

Calverley’s colleagues on the sports desk wrote: ‘Young tyro of the baize [as in snooker] pitted his burgeoning talents against the mighty Jimmy White.” Surely ‘tyro’ is wrong, claimed the callers. Not so people. A tyro is a person who is just beginning to learn something. Work that into a crossword clue.

HALLELUJAH. A rare event at County Hall last week during the heated debate over the annual budget. Members were being asked to give their blessing to the spending of just under £1billion. No small sum. So what crossed party lines and brought a unanimous vote from the 72 councillors? It came when the question was put: “Who wants to take a break for a spot of lunch?” Every hand shot up.

UNBELIEVABLE – the woman who takes the cake when it comes to eating out. During one of her regular lunches with girlfriends she offered them a spoonful sample of her dessert. When it came to splitting the bill, she insisted they pay £1 each for the taster.

Stunned, they handed over the coins. You could not make it up, and Calverley did not.

He was on the next table.

CHANGING TIMES: There’s a programme on Channel 4 that has just returned, so it must be popular. It’s called Married at First Sight and involves six singletons meeting a total stranger and then agreeing to immediately marry them. And they wonder why society today places such a low value on marriage.

Chin Chin, readers

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Weekly Comment

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Tom Tugendhat MP for Tonbridge & Malling

Make your voice heard in High Street survey TONBRIDGE’S High Street is the showcase of our town. It is the main route from north to south in the town. It is home to the prestigious schools – Tonbridge School at one end and Judd at the other, and the centre dominated by the Norman keep of Tonbridge Castle still standing guard after nearly a thousand years.

We have shops of every kind, from Ian Chatfield’s butchers and Sankey’s fishmongers to the just opened Tonbridge Creates pop-up shop.

Businesses want to invest in Tonbridge.

They’re right. The High Street is a great place to work and shop, but we need to constantly improve it. Not just for businesses, but for pedestrians, motorists and buses, too.

Over the past couple of years, the south of the High Street saw major works completed. The pavements were widened and crossings changed.

Every junction, from River Walk to Barden Road, was improved. The work was commissioned by Kent County Council, and while the works went on for a long time, they were completed in the end.

A town like ours is constantly changing. That means continuous work on improving our High Street and more ideas for our future. The reaction that a current Kent County Council survey has

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

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

ROAD TO SUCCESS? The changes have attracted comments both good and bad

generated on social media shows how strongly we feel about our community. I know that this is something we all share.

Issues So what needs more work? Traffic flow for one.

Along with Cannon Lane – there are only two ways to travel north-south in Tonbridge, and this is the other.

We need to make sure cars can move easily while allowing buses to use the streets and pedestrians to walk easily along past the shops. That includes Beyond the Grounds and Finch House, who rightly make the most of the outside space available – well, they do when it isn’t snowing!

That’s why I am delighted so many people and businesses have answered the High Street survey.

I’ve heard many comments – both positive and negative – about the end result. While it’s great the pavements are wider, the loading bays, bus stops and crossing points continue to cause issues for many.

This survey goes straight to Kent County Council and will shape their future projects. I’ve received assurances from our excellent county

councillors, Richard Long and Michael Payne, that this work will guide future plans for the High Street, and the whole town. It’s quick, simple and easy to complete with just ten questions and the chance to comment where necessary.

The current works taking place at the north of the High Street by the junction with Bordyke demonstrate how disruptive this can be for everyone. I doubt many will forget the impact of the works to the south of the High Street in the past

couple of years, and that’s why we need to make our views clear when presented with the opportunity, which this survey does provide.

You can find the survey on the Kent County Council website, or I’ve put all the details on my website below. The deadline for responses is Sunday, March 4, so there is not long left to complete it. Please make your voice heard.

Link to survey: www.tomtugendhat.org.uk/ news/tonbridge-high-street-survey

WITH THE

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

EDUCATION All you need to know for selecting the right independent school for your children Ask the pupils Students from around the area tell us about their learning journey page 24

Testing times Leading school heads reveal their top revision tips page 54

Literary loves Celebrate World Book Day with the best reads page 56

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Education Special

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Students have their say From favourite subjects to extracurricular activities, we get the lowdown from the children who attend our local schools on what life is life in and out of the classroom BEECHWOOD SACRED HEART SCHOOL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Head teacher: Aaron Lennon Web: www.beechwood.org.uk Email: bsh@beechwood.org.uk Open day: Wednesday March 14 Name of student: Freya Age: 13

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

Being part of a small community means that the school becomes a wider family; this includes fellow students and the staff. They not only teach, but also nurture talents and guide you to achieve everything that you are capable of. In my time, at the school I have been involved with cultural showcases, choirs, drama productions, recitals and presentations that I am sure I would never have been brave enough to embrace at a larger school.

Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

Beechwood offers a huge range of subjects, recognising and encouraging us all to be individuals, so I felt confident to pursue the subjects that I enjoy. Studying music has been incredibly rewarding and the outstanding teachers have inspired me to perform in concerts, sing with the gospel choir, and Schola Cantorum, travel to Paris for a choir festival and to lead younger students in forming bands. These experiences have given me confidence and self-belief; skills that I will carry with me throughout my life.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Beechwood is small enough to genuinely care

about each and every student, preparing you for life. The school encourages individuality and whatever your interests, Beechwood will accommodate them, but will also nurture you and provide a platform to explore new opportunities that you simply wouldn’t get elsewhere.

HOLMEWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Head teacher: Scott Carnochan Web: www.holmewoodhouse.co.uk Open day: Friday March 2 Name of student: Anna Age: 13

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

All of the amazing opportunities and facilities.

Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy maths the most, because Mr Quirk makes you try to do things for yourself, and is very supportive.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

Yes, I take part in gymnastics and running (cross-country), and am in the Wizard of Oz play.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Holmewood House is a very good school that helps pupils feel at home, and can adapt to suit you. You’ll make lots of friends, because the pupils are really kind, and the teachers very helpful.

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Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I always take part in the school play and really look forward to it – it’s one of the highlights of my year. I’m also part of the choir, and have singing lessons at school. I take part in the Hastings Festival as part of the choir, and as a soloist. I also do cross-country club, which I feel really benefits my running, and I did athletics club last summer, which I really loved doing. I like the sound of the mad science club, and the chess club too.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Definitely go for it! Hilden Grange is one of the most welcoming places I’ve ever known. I’ve been there since I was three and have enjoyed my journey, which is why I’m staying on for Years 7 and 8.

I’ve had so many experiences at Hilden Grange that enrich my life, so I thoroughly recommend coming here. We have the most amazing teachers, who are always there to support you if you need help, plus our headmaster is one of the kindest people I’ve ever known.

CRANBROOK SCHOOL, CRANBROOK

THE MEAD SCHOOL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Head teacher: Andrew Webster Web: www.themeadschool.co.uk Open days: Thursday 1 March Name of student: Temi Age: 10

Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

My favourite subject is art because we use new techniques and skills. Our teacher always kindly tells us where to improve and always pushes us to our limits. Another subject I like is swimming because the coaches always persuade us to persevere and push us to do the best we can do.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I take part in origami club. We are given a video to follow and we help others if we get stuck. I also do story writing club were we put all our imagination on a piece of paper. We share ideas with others and read stories when they are done. I do Tap and Modern Dance where we dance and do exams. My favourite is LAMDA where we perform monologues and dialogues in groups. It is a time for acting, but also for catching up with friends and teachers.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

I would say to students thinking of joining that this school is amazing. Our school is like one huge family. Teachers take students under their wing and enter into a world of happiness and learning.

We are always ready for a challenge and we never give up. But the most important thing about school is Anita’s delicious cookies!

HILDEN GRANGE SCHOOL, TONBRIDGE

Head teacher: Dr John Weeds Web: www.cranbrookschool.co.uk Open day: Wednesday May 16 (Years 7, 9 and 12) Name of student: Emma Age: 17

Head teacher: John Withers Web: www.hildengrange.co.uk Open days: Friday June 15, 9am to 12pm, and Saturday June 16, 2pm to 4pm (Early Years Explore and Play Open session) Name of student: Yasmin Age: 11 Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy drama the most because I want to be an actress when I’m older, and I have such a good drama teacher. I also enjoy languages; Latin and Spanish are my favourites, and I like the patterns you find in languages. History is really good because we have such an enthusiastic teacher, who tells us that mistakes help us to learn. History is really important, because what has happened in the past affects how we live today. The sport at school is really good too – my favourites are hockey and athletics, but I also really like rounders, netball and cross-country. I really enjoy the training, but the matches are what I enjoy the most.

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

Boarding in Scott House has been my favourite thing about Cranbrook. It’s enabled me to grow in confidence and independence, as well as integrate with other years and staff in a more sociable setting. I’ve also loved being house captain, which has allowed me to become even more involved in other aspects of school life.

Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

Geography, because it relates to a lot of the current issues in the world. I especially enjoy human geography, as I find it interesting learning about different people, cultures and communities across the globe.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Cranbrook has a lot to offer and something for everyone, from sports and performing arts, to debating and many other student-led clubs.

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Education Special

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

My favourite aspect of school life is the team spirit. Ardingly is a real community. The team spirit is evident not only on the sports field, but also in choir, drama productions and in the classroom.

SKIPPERS HILL MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL, MAYFIELD Head teacher: Mark Hammond Web: www.skippershill.com Name of student: Freddy Age: 13

Do you take part in any extra-curricular activities, and if so, what are they?

Yes; Ardingly offers an array of sports. My favourites are hockey, netball, football, swimming and tennis. As well as this, I love drama, particularly Sondheim’s musical, Pacific Overtures, which we performed last term. Music is a huge part of my life and I get the chance to take part in various music activities during the week including choir, Schola, orchestra, string ensemble and quartet.

Academic activities such as UK Space Design and debating are also very challenging, but great fun!

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

The school has a wonderful setting, with a mountain biking track through the woods, great football and cricket pitches, and plenty of space to run around. I often see wild deer in the grounds, and the view is spectacular too.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

Yes, I do fencing and athletics in the summer. I’m going on a sports tour to Jersey next month, and am going indoor skiing in the Netherlands after Common Entrance! We also have our own Skippers Challenge award, which has enabled me to learn many new skills, such as cooking, cycle maintenance and building a go-kart (I’m working towards my gold award this year).

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Come to Skippers! It’s friendly, makes learning fun, and offers lots of activities outside of the classroom.

MARLBOROUGH HOUSE SCHOOL, HAWKHURST Head teacher: Martyn Ward Web: www.marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk Open days: Friday March 9 and Saturday May 12 Name of student: Rose Age: 10

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

All the different learning that we do. You’re listened to and you

have lots of freedom, so you get to learn your way. However, if I were in charge, I’d let the teachers be pupils for a day. I’d install a teachers’ playground, and let them choose which lessons to go to.

My history teacher, Ms Searle, says that if she were a pupil, she’d go to history lessons all day, taught by me – but I don’t think I’d get away with that!

Which subjects do you enjoy the most?

I like maths lessons because I love problem solving. I’d also like to be an archaeologist and part-time actor when I’m older, so I love history and drama. In drama, you get to be anyone you want to be; you don’t have to follow stereotypes, so if you don’t want to play a princess, you can play Boudicca instead. If the book The School of Good and Evil was a play, I’d like to be Sophie or Agatha, as long as they weren’t too ‘princessy’.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I have my Guildhall speech and drama group once a week, but work really hard at school, and also like my sleep, so at the end of the day, I like to go home and spend time with my family, then get an early night!

ARDINGLY COLLEGE, HAYWARDS HEATH

Head teacher: Ben Figgis Web: www.ardingly.com Open days: Friday March 2 (Pre-prep), Saturday March 10 (Senior school) and Friday 16 March (Preparatory) Name of student: Abigail School year: Year 11

What would you say to other students thinking of joining your school?

Firstly, Ardingly has given me the most wonderful experience of school life. I have been at Ardingly since year 3 and, throughout my school journey, Ardingly has not only supported and encouraged me, but also given me every opportunity possible to be prepare myself for Sixth Form and my future endeavours.

If you’re a student who loves to get involved, Ardingly is the perfect place for immersing yourself, not only in academia, but everything from sport to music to art to drama and even baking!

What I love about Ardingly is the positive and friendly nature of everyone - smiles and laughter fill the school and I have developed everlasting friendships. The environment at Ardingly brings the best out of everyone.

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Education Special

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Education Special

BEDE’S SCHOOL, EAST SUSSEX Head teacher: Peter Goodyer Web: www.bedes.ord Open days: Saturday 10 March Name of student: Jack School year: 17

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

However, for many of us the favourite activity is ‘Downland Walking’, which involves an afternoon of gentle trekking over the South Downs whilst holding philosophical discussions about everything and anything!

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

It really has the feel of a whole school, it is unique; Bede’s fosters an atmosphere where everyone’s values are respected, allowing you to flourish as an individual.

Which subjects do you enjoy the most and why?

I study French, Spanish and English at A Level.

The lessons are taught by incredibly supportive and passionate teachers, and have inspired me to head to Durham University to take up my place to study Modern Languages in October.

Do you take part in any extra-curricular activities, and if so, what are they?

Bede’s offers over 100 extra-curricular activities so we certainly have plenty to choose from! You can take part in music, sport and drama activities, as well as engaging with the more esoteric; so if you want to learn how to restore a classic car, lose yourself in Dungeons and Dragons, or engage with the local community at ‘knit and natter’, Bede’s is the place to be!

HURST COLLEGE, HURSTPIERPOINT Head teacher: Tim Manly Web: www.hppc.co.uk Open days: Saturday March 3 and Saturday May 12 Name of student: Greig School year: Lower Sixth Form

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

Without a doubt, my favourite thing about Hurst

What would you say to other students thinking of joining your school?

Bede’s is unlike any other school you will visit.

There is the breadth and opportunity to do whatever you want, to help you become who you really are, with the full support of the community behind you.

is the sense of community. With the school’s house system, there are endless opportunities to create strong bonds with students, not only in your own year, but from all over the school. I feel proud and honoured to be part of the student cohort, as we work so hard to promote the Hurst ethos.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I participate in all main team sports – rugby, hockey and cricket – training three times a week, with matches every Saturday. The school offers the chance to not only engage in the classroom, but also on the sports pitch, and with our ‘no one on the bench’ policy, that means that all players will get a game, regardless of ability.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

If you’re willing to work hard, engage with the countless opportunities available, and strive towards your personal best, then Hurst College is the place for you. Joining Hurst was the best decision I’ve ever made, and I haven’t looked back, as it’s enabled me to learn and grow as an individual in ways that I never thought possible.

CLAREMONT SCHOOL, BODIAM

Head teacher: Giles Perrin Web: www.claremontschool.co.uk Open days: Friday March 2 and Saturday March 3 (nursery and preparatory school, 9.30am to 1pm); Saturday May 2 (senior and Sixth Form, 9.30am to 1pm) Name of student: Junita Age: 17 What’s your favourite thing about your school?

My favourite thing about Claremont is its awesome teachers. The teachers that I have are really passionate about the subjects they’re teaching, and genuinely enjoy their roles. They also facilitate me in any way possible, to make sure that I truly understand the lessons; meeting them outside the classroom to ask questions has never been a problem. My biology teacher even agreed to set aside some of his free time to help me prepare for my SAT subject test, which I had to take for my university application. I now have an unconditional offer to Wellesley College, USA, and my teachers helped me so much throughout the application process.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

I currently take part in Hastings Half Marathon

training, and have recently joined an introductory class of line dancing. However, in the past year, I’ve also tried to do several new things, such as Chinese language and calligraphy, and filmmaking.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

Definitely do come and join us! From its small class sizes to its multicultural community, everyone can always learn something new here every day. I came to the UK having a fairly high expectation of this school that I was going to join, and I haven’t been disappointed.

Continued on Page 53

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

yourh me INSPIRATION FOR MOVING

AND IMPROVING

AVAILABLE EVER Y WEDNESDAY – A MUST-READ

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO PROPERTY AND GARDENING

Wonderful farmhouse for renovation Page 31

42

KITCHEN WITH A VIEW AND AN AGA

49

Light up your life

with this illuminating gem Page 47

FUN GARDEN FOR ALL THE FAMILY

30

yourh me

To suit your budget

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Your at-a-glance guide to WITH THE

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS

Pick up your edition at the following stations Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge Wadhurst Hildenborough Paddock Wood High Brooms

To feature a property or to place an advert please call: Patsy Kelly 01892 774781

Alternatively, you can contact the Times of Tunbridge Wells in the following ways: Call 01892 779 624 16 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1NU newsdesk@timesoftunbridgewells.co.uk

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UNDER £400,000 CHANDOS ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

n Master bedroom with feature fireplace surround n 3 further bedrooms n Bathroom

£375,000

n Small front garden with wall surround

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n Entrance hall

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n Living room with feature fireplace

n Rear garden with patio and shed

n Dining roomwith understairs alcove currently used as a study n Kitchen with door to garden

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

UNDER £500,000

n Study

REDLAND AVENUE TUNBRIDGE WELLS

n First floor living room with Juliet balcony

GUIDE PRICE

£485,000

n Approached by shared pedestrian walkway n Entrance hall

n 2 bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms n Bedroom 3 n Bathroom n Rear garden with shed & car port

n Cloakroom n L-shaped kitchen/dining room with marble work surfaces and double doors to garden

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

To suit your budget

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great properties by price range…

UPPER GROSVENOR ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS GUIDE PRICE

£550,000

UNDER £750,000 PADDOCK END, RIDING LANE HILDENBOROUGH

GUIDE PRICE

£650,000-£700,000 n Older-style detached house n Requires some improvement n Semi-rural location n 2 reception rooms n Kitchen/breakfast room n 3 bedrooms n Garage, gardens & driveway n Scope to extend (subject to planning permission) CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £800,000 BROAD GROVE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

OIEO £725,000 n Spacious entrance hall n Through reception room n Dining room n Cloakroom n Kitchen/breakfast room n Utility room n Master bedroom with en-suite shower room n 3 further bedrooms n Family bathroom n Front and rear gardens n Garage CONTACT Bracketts Tunbridge Wells 01892 533733 www.bracketts.co.uk

UNDER £1MILLION UNDER £600,000

SPRINGFIELD, VEXOUR FARM CHIDDINGSTONE

UPPER GROSVENOR ROAD TUNBRIDGE WELLS

GUIDE PRICE

£550,000 n Semi-detached house n Spacious reception room n Kitchen/dining room n 3 bedrooms n Modern bathroom

GUIDE PRICE n Large rear garden

£900,000-£975,000

n Off-street parking for several cars

n Detached house in superb location

n Less than a mile from station

n Requires modernisation n Sitting room

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

n Dining room n Kitchen/breakfast room n Ground floor bathroom n 5 bedrooms (2 on ground floor) n Garage n Approximately 1.2 acres CONTACT Bracketts Tonbridge 01732 350503 www.bracketts.co.uk

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Plantation House

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

AT A GLANCE

Sloping ceilings complement the classic architecture of stylish 1960s country home Fabulous views and a garden for all seasons

PLANTATION HOUSE REEDS LANE, SHIPBOURNE TONBRIDGE n Built in the 1960s in classic asymmetrical design n Countryside views n Stylish features include sloping and vaulted ceilings & large picture windows n Spacious reception hall n Triple aspect feature sitting room with vaulted ceiling, minstrel’s gallery, raised multi-fuel open fire with screen & sliding doors to terrace n Dining room with doors to garden n Kitchen/breakfast room with double aspect vistas, fitted electric oven, calor gas hob & electric AGA n Shower room n Study/ground floor bedroom n Master bedroom with large balcony n 2 further bedrooms n Bathroom n Driveway n Double garage n Superb gardens with ornamental pond, water feature & bridge n Summerhouse n Hen house n Fruit and vegetable garden n Possibly suitable for extension (subject to planning permission)

ÂŁ895,000 Available for sale through Barnes Kingsnorth Tonbridge 01732 771616 www.bkestateagents.com

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Uplands

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AT A GLANCE

UPLANDS NEW ROAD, ROTHERFIELD n Entrance hall n Drawing room n Study n Family room n Kitchen/breakfast room with vaulted ceiling n Utility room n Dining room with vaulted ceiling n Games room n Downstairs shower room & WC n Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom n 3 further bedrooms n Shower room & separate WC Annexe: n Self-contained (accessed via main house or via own entrance) n Utility room n 2 bedrooms n Bathroom Outside: n Attached double garage with office above n Detached single garage n Driveway, garden and grounds n In all about 0.72 acres

GUIDE PRICE

ÂŁ1,250,000 Available for sale through Knight Frank Tunbridge Wells 01892 515035 www.knightfrank.co.uk

A pretty village home featuring exposed beams and an annexe

Advertising Feature

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

There’s nothing greater than the

great outdoors

T

HE cry “Kids these days don’t go outside!” is often heard across dinner tables as adults reminisce about the good old days of riding bikes, climbing trees and tasting freedom.

But can we really blame the kids or their precious technology?

Protective parents limit venturing to parks and woods to chaperoned trips only. Many people have the luxury of a garden, but find they don’t want to spend time in the space themselves. If you don’t want to go outside, why would your child?

A true family garden is devised with every member in mind, but doesn’t have to mean tiny slides for toddlers and colossal climbing frames for older children.

Jungle gyms and swing sets are well meaningly installed – “Go forth, children. Play!” – while

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Owning a garden is the best way to get those little ones outdoors, and the benefits of venturing out into the light span both the physical and the psychological.

Here, the team at Mary Mary Creates tell us about the potential they see in any garden for people of any age

‘We suggest flexible space that, by its very nature, will develop as the family grows’ chores inside are tackled. But the kids, many of whom just want to be near their caregivers, become easily bored and find themselves back at the screens.

If the parents also had a space to enjoy, be it a simple seat in a sunny corner or a smart terrace with a comfortable chair, they, too, will be more inclined to go in the garden.

Being outdoors becomes a shared adventure as the natural curiosity of the kids drags the parents to every corner.

The Mary Mary team aim to create outside space that can be enjoyed by all ages, and we design with the future in mind. We suggest flexible space that, by its very nature, will develop as the family grows.

A simple hammock can be a fun and relaxing feature that a two year old can be snuggled in, a five year old can clamber in, and a teenager can lounge in. The same feature can be used at every stage of a child’s life.

A newly planted fruit tree will blossom to delight an adult, and bear

our natural environment.

We are fortunate to work with some families who have the space to accommodate a grand treehouse that adults will eagerly scramble into, but the challenge of a small space is equally as rewarding. Stepping stone logs, a tree swing or an outdoor blackboard can encourage children into a space, which, if designed with adults equally in mind, can become a place for the entire family to enjoy.

The Mary Mary team encourage all ages to love being in their gardens, and if it starts with a simple bench on which to perch while your children roll on a muddy patch of grass, it is the first step to bringing your family together in the fresh air. fruit that teaches a toddler the joy of a freshly picked apple. The dropped leaves piled up to encourage little beasties to be observed by intrepid six-year-old zoologists and ten years

later provides a summer’s dappled canopy for a teenager to laze beneath with pals. All in an environment that is secure, yet providing an opportunity to learn, explore and develop a love for

Mary Mary Creates Gardens Tel: 01732 362982 Mobile: 07595 096787 Web: www.marymarycreatesgardens.co.uk

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Advertising

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Local News

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

KING’S ROCHESTER

Head teacher: Jeremy Walker Web: www.kings-rochester.co.uk Open day: Saturday May 12 Name of student: Phoebe Mary-Grace Age: 14 What’s your favourite thing about your school?

King’s is a relatively small school, which makes it extremely welcoming. The best thing about going to school is that I know everyone and have many friends.

Do you take part in any extracurricular activities?

Yes, I do! I play in the under-14s A-team at my local hockey club, which involves training twice a week. I also take ballet, tap, street jazz, musical theatre, drama and singing classes. I love being in theatre productions, and have just performed in a professional pantomime at The Woodville Theatre in Gravesend. I’ve also toured with the National Youth Music Theatre in The Piper of Hamelin, and have been recast in this year’s production. I appeared in Youth Music Theatre UK’s production of The Great Gatsby, in which I was the youngest member of the cast. I also enjoy swimming and skiing, and play piano and violin to Grade 4 standard.

Any words of wisdom for other students thinking of joining your school?

King’s is a great school, which I feel supports me in every aspect of my school life, including academic and extracurricular activities. I have many friends across all year groups, and the teaching staff are friendly and supportive. I love that we use Rochester Cathedral, and enjoy being part of a school with so much history and tradition.

RAZZAMATAZ THEATRE SCHOOL, TONBRIDGE Head teacher: Eve Aston Web: www.tonbridge.razzamataz.co.uk Open days: Any Saturday during term time Name of student: Lola Age: 11

What’s your favourite thing about your school?

Other than my home, Razzamataz is my favourite place to be - I just feel like I belong. Every day is fun and enjoyable. There are no two weeks that are the same; one week we will be learning a routine from musical theatre, and the next week it will be pop music. At the moment, we are learning a flash-mob for a live performance and it’s so exciting.

Which subjects do you enjoy the most and why?

It’s so hard to choose! I love our drama class. We always have so much fun and do different things each week, but I also love all the styles of dance we learn, and I love to sing. There’s nothing here we don’t love.

What would you say to other students thinking of joining your school?

Definitely come and join us! They offer a free taster session, so you can try all the lessons with our fabulous teachers and you can join from as young as two years old. During my three years here, I have made so many great friends at Razzamataz and I look forward to coming here every week. There is such a family atmosphere and everyone is valued. I feel I can

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really express another side of myself here. We have lots of exciting things happening all the time so far this year. We have had CITV Scrambled filming, a Stomp-style workshop, and some of us are doing a dance class with Darcey Bussell. We sing at the Tonbridge Christmas Lights Festival and are planning a Flash-Mob, an appearance at the Tonbridge Carnival and finish with our fabulous end of year show at the E.M Forster Theatre at Tonbridge School.

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NEWS

Education Special

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Talking Heads Exam season can be a stressful time for students, so we asked three local school heads how they help their pupils to achieve their best results, while also looking after their wellbeing. Here’s what they had to say…

AARON LENNON, HEADMASTER, BEECHWOOD SACRED HEART SCHOOL, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Time wasted is time lost, so begin now!

Revision starts as soon as you begin your course. Get into a habit of writing up and filing your notes, and looking and thinking over what you’ve learned each day. This will save you time in the long run.

Know exactly what your syllabus requires you to learn and understand. You can print the syllabus from the exam board websites, and your teachers should give you an overview.

Minutes after a lesson or study session, the knowledge you’ve acquired is already leaking away. If you don’t return to the topic for days or even weeks, you’ll have to work hard again to reinforce that knowledge. However, don’t panic – if you revisit it later the same day, look over it a week later, and then again a couple of weeks after that, you’ll retain the knowledge, and when you come to the exam period, you’ll have to spend less time revising, and will have more time

JULIE LODRICK, HEADMISTRESS, KENT COLLEGE, PEMBURY, TUNBRIDGE WELLS

to practise answering past questions.

Past papers and mark schemes can also be downloaded from the exam board websites.

When you’re revising, give yourself rest breaks of about five minutes in every 30 minutes. You could go outside, have a drink, or listen to some music. You’ll work more efficiently and remember more by doing this, rather than by studying for a whole hour without a break. We remember best what we started within any session, so by giving yourself two starting points in an hour, you’ll retain much more. Finally, look after yourself. Eat well, get out in the fresh air, do some exercise, socialise, and make sure you get plenty of sleep.

BEECHWOOD SACRED HEART SCHOOL ADDRESS: 12 Pembury Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3QD TEL: 01892 532 747 WEB: www.beechwood.org.uk EMAIL: bsh@beechwood.org.uk

Spring might be around the corner, but for some this can be a tough time of year.

As I write, our Year 11 and Upper Sixth Formers are trooping nervously into the exam hall to sit their mock exams.

For parents, too, this can be an anxious time.

Again, all we can do is hope that we’ve prepared our children well, giving them the tools to cope with challenge.

When revising, there’s a temptation for students to focus initially on the things they find easy. This makes sense as they’re telling themselves that they need the self-esteem boost before they come to the difficult content.

Instead, encourage your child to start with the most challenging ideas.

They may struggle at first, but even if they can’t master the material straightaway, when they return to it, their brains will have been processing things behind the scenes.

We can all relate to how a problem can seem easier once we’ve left it alone for a bit. Engaging with a

challenge in this manner also teaches resilience and the mental toughness that examinations demand.

In addition, help your child understand that true effort requires focus and determination; this is a real challenge for any of us.

A student might do an hour of revision after breakfast (possibly after 10am), and then congratulate themselves enormously for making a start. They may feel a break is then in order, which will then overrun, leaving only a short time until lunch, so they might as well wait, and then after lunch, their phone rings…

Effective revision, like any form of practice, needs the student to be a tough taskmaster.

The Pomodoro Technique of 25 minutes of revision, followed by a five-minute break, offers a practical solution. Some students prefer 45 minutes, followed by 15 minutes’ break. This gives time to get a drink and do some of that vital mental processing.

KENT COLLEGE ADDRESS: Old Church Road, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 4AX TEL: 01892 820 204 WEB: www.kent-college.co.uk EMAIL: prepschool@kentcollege. kent.sch.uk

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Education Special

MARTYN WARD, HEADMASTER, MARLBOROUGH HOUSE SCHOOL, HAWKHURST, NR CRANBROOK Experience has taught us that happy children succeed! As teachers, we know only too well how exam pressure and the prospect of not quite making the grade can be the perfect recipe for sleepless nights, poor eating habits, and lack of focus in the classroom.

Investment in a private tutor can help to reinforce what a child learns at school, but for some, ‘over-learning’ can hinder their ability to show an examiner exactly what they’re capable of when the day comes. Continuous assessment of pupils’ progress across the whole curriculum enables us to design individually tailored learning and revision plans, which, with the ongoing support of our parents at home, makes the process of exam preparation personalised, logical and even fun!

Our Character Education programme enables children to develop key life skills, such as resilience, drive, initiative, self-assurance and reflectiveness from the outset, so by the time they reach the examination room, they’re not only ready to turn over that paper, but are genuinely excited by the challenge.

Our children can also pay a visit to ‘The Harbour’ (a safe, calm place with soothing music, activities to stimulate mindfulness, and some very comfy sofas), if they feel they need time away from their books to talk through their worries, or to simply rediscover the simple pleasure of just ‘being’.

Our examination results and the many scholarships awarded each year speak for themselves, but we teach that exams are just a part of life – not life itself.

Our broad curriculum gives children many opportunities to shine, so when they leave us in Year 8, not only will they have had the very best education, but will take with them a ‘life toolbox’ of skills that will help them to stay happy, and thrive in Senior School and the ever-changing world beyond.

MARLBOROUGH HOUSE SCHOOL ADDRESS: Hawkhurst, Cranbrook,Kent TN18 4PY TEL: 01580 753 555 WEB: www.marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk EMAIL: frontoffice@ marlboroughhouseschool.co.uk

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Reading Corner We all know it’s a great idea to encourage children to read, but what should they be reading? We speak to The Book Trust, who unveil their top picks for every age

Ages 0-3 A BUSY DAY FOR BIRDS Lucy Cousins, Walker Books Ages 6-7 I CAN ONLY DRAW WORMS Will Mabbitt, Puffin

Ages 8-9 MY MUM’S GROWING DOWN Laura Dockrill, illustrated by David Tazzyman, Faber & Faber

Ages 4-5 DANNY MCGEE DRINKS THE SEA Andy Stanton, illustrated by Neal Layton, Hodder Children’s Books

Ages 10-11 THE ISLAND AT THE END OF EVERYTHING Kiran Millwood Hargrave, Chicken House Ages 12+ GEEK GIRL Holly Smale, HarperCollins

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Education Special

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Wednesday February 28 | 2018

thekn w ARTS AND CULTURE | LIFE & STYLE | MOTORING TECHNOLOGY | DREAM DESTINATIONS | SPORT

It’s Mainly Madness

Mother’s Day Beauty

Ladies in lavender

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FOOD & DRINK

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at The Forum Page 64

Dig the trench …coat, that is

TOUR THE TREASURES OF EGYPT

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SEE SNOWDROPS… IN THE SNOW!

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Caught in a Trapp

with The Sound of Music…

FEAST ON FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT

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NEW JAG: BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT

‘C

Arts & Culture

Wednesday February 28 | 2018 PHOTO: Brian McEvoy

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The sound of

musical

success

All this week the Assembly Hall will host the much anticipated stage version of The Sound of Music. Eileen Leahy profiles one of the entertainment industry’s most popular and timeless pieces – now temporarily transferring to Tunbridge Wells

LIMB Ev’ry Mountain’, ‘My Favourite Things’, ‘Edelweiss’ – just hearing the titles of these three show tunes instantly makes you want to break into song doesn’t it?

Well, now you can, thanks to one of the world’s best loved and successful shows, The Sound of Music, coming to Tunbridge Wells for a week.

This stage production of the classic 1960s movie, which starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer in the title roles of Maria and Baron Von Trapp, has received five-star reviews and captured the hearts of both young and old since it started touring.

Boasting a wonderfully lavish set and the

timeless music of Rodgers & Hammerstein, it charts the true story of the world famous singing Von Trapp family from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness to their thrilling escape to freedom at the start of World War II. Lucy O’Byrne returns to the iconic role of Maria, for which she was hailed by critics as ‘Quite possibly the best Maria since Julie Andrews herself’.

Lucy was the runner-up of BBC One’s The Voice in 2015, impressing the nation and chart-topper Will.i.am with her stunning vocal range. She also recently played the character of Fantine in Les Misérables in the West End. Joining as the handsome Captain Von Trapp is TV and stage star Neil McDermott, whose

characters include playing heartthrob Ryan Malloy in EastEnders. He has also starred in numerous West End productions such as Shrek The Musical, in which he played Lord Farquaad.

There’s no denying that the feelgood Sound of Music, produced by legendary theatre impresario Bill Kenwright, is a classic – so if you haven’t got your tickets to see it yet then make sure you ‘Climb Ev’ry Mountain’ to get them.

You won’t be disappointed!

TO BOOK TICKETS: The Sound of Music is on every day this week at the Assembly Hall. For tickets and timings please visit www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk

Arts & Culture

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

TOP FACTS ABOUT:

The Sound of Music ■ The main story of The Sound of Music was taken from Maria Kutschera’s 1949 memoir The Story of the Trapp Family ■ The subplot of Liesl and her romance with Rolfe, a telegraph delivery boy who became a Nazi, was the invention of the writers ■ In real life, Maria von Trapp was the taskmaster, while Baron von Trapp was a bit of a pushover. Maria set the priorities, managed the finances, and determined the artistic direction of their singing group ■ When they left Austria, Baron von Trapp and Maria had already been married for years and had two children of their own, with another on the way ■ After arriving in America, The Trapp Family Singers became Columbia’s most successful choral group ■ When settled in the States, they moved to Stowe in Vermont and opened the Trapp Family Lodge, which is still operational and hugely popular to this day ■ Actresses who were considered to play the part of Maria before Julie Andrews secured the role included Audrey Hepburn and Doris Day. And Christopher Plummer’s role could have gone to crooner Bing Crosby if some producers had had their way…

Full steam ahead Next week, Trinity Theatre welcomes Steamchicken – a troupe who play a funky fusion of ceilidh, jazz, blues and soul music. One of its musicians, Becky Eden-Green, who grew up in this area, tells the Times why these festival veterans are looking forward to coming to town…

STEAMCHICKEN was formed in 1993 by three friends who shared the common interest of folk music, festivals and beer. When it started it was a three-piece ceilidh dance band for a good few years, but gradually family members and their children started joining in. Most went off to university, where they recruited even more members, one of whom was me!

That was five years ago, when my friend, Matt Crum, the only one of my group of Leeds University friends who actually made any money from gigging, revealed he often headed off around the country to play at folk festivals with his dad.

In our last year of university, a group of us went to Warwick Folk Festival and ended up jamming with this magical band called Steamchicken. I never really left after that.

When people ask how the band got their name, I always say I’ve never really been sure as it occurred long before my time. Rumour has it that they were in a pub and Bill, one of the founders, told a joke – but it’s probably best not to ask more.

I play clarinet, alto saxophone and sing

MUSICAL MIX Becky (holding microphone with bandmates

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highlights was travelling to Spain to play on an outdoor stage at Costa del Folk in Benalmàdena – the weather was beautiful and we met loads of other awesome bands out there.

Another memorable time was at Sidmouth Folk Week, when the heavens opened and the crowd just kept dancing, completely ignoring the fact that they were soaked through.

Playing at Trinity next Thursday night will be a kind of homecoming for me as I grew up in Kent and was very involved in local youth music opportunities through the likes of Kent Music School and Big Brother’s Little Brother.

I also taught music at Hillview School for Girls in Tonbridge after I finished university. Young people are inspiring, and young musicians are even more brilliant. It was great being able to help them to discover how great music can be and watch them constantly surprise me.

Excited

occasional backing vocals in the band, and have recently relinquished the position of occasional bass guitarist in favour of our full-time bass player, the fabulous Tim Yates.

Our singer, Amy Kakoura, is half Greek and Irish and has been mining both country’s traditional forms for song ideas. She trained in musical theatre and joined the band after I worked with her on a musical and the previous singer had moved away.

For the past five years I’ve been in the band we’ve played in some amazing places. One of the

The performing arts department at Hillview continues to go from strength to strength and it was great to be a part of it.

I have taken the school to do concerts at Trinity Theatre in the past, but this will be my first time playing with a band that I have not been teaching.

It is a lovely venue and I’m excited to introduce the band to the joys of ‘Sunny Tunny’.

I am now settled in Sheffield, where I work as a musician in healthcare. I set up Brightside Music CIC with a fellow musician and we take interactive live music into hospital settings across Yorkshire.

But I love being in Steamchicken as the band are one of the most agreeable groups of people in my life and I love getting to spend time with them. Most people in my office think I’m a rock star when I go on tour, and there really isn’t a downside to doing that. If anything, having to maintain a normal life in between gigs is what can sometimes be a challenge!

See Steamchicken perform at Trinity Theatre on Thursday March 8 at 8pm. Tickets cost £18 and can be booked at www.trinitytheatre.net

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Going Out

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

going ut Seven days of activities at a glance

By Eileen Leahy

THE WHITE STUFF Snow or no snow, it’s still the perfect time to see the snowdrops at Hever

WEDNESDAY

School’s 500th anniversary celebrations, there will be a talk entitled Everest and the 1996 Storm.

It will be given by Mike Trueman, a former officer in Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. Mr Trueman has led expeditions around the world, including over 20 to the Himalayas and four to Everest. In 1996, he was part of an international team attempting the Polish South Pillar route on the mountain when the much-publicised storm hit, claiming the lives of eight climbers. As the storm raged, he was asked to descend to Base Camp to coordinate the rescue. To find out more about his adventures, book tickets at www.cranbrookschool.co.uk If you’re a jazz fan then make sure you visit the Masonic Hall on St John’s Road, which is also home to the Tunbridge Wells Jazz Club. During the year they put on a few concerts, and tonight they welcome Allen Beechey’s Bright Stars of Jazz. For details of tickets and the start time, see www.twjazzclub.co.uk

The Sound of Music is on at the Assembly Hall all this week until Saturday. Lucy O’Bryne stars as the legendary Maria in what is undoubtedly one of the greatest musicals of all time. Audiences of all ages will enjoy this lavish and enchanting tale of the famous former nun whose life changes when she meets the all-singing Von Trapp family and World War II breaks out. For tickets and timings, see www.theassemblyhall.co.uk Showing at the Odeon will be a live performance of the Royal Ballet’s production of the famous Shakespearean classic The Winter’s Tale.

Streamed live from Covent Garden, this story of love and loss becomes compelling dance drama in Christopher Wheeldon’s adaptation. It starts at 7.15pm and tickets vary in price. See www.odeontheatre.co.uk

THURSDAY

Trinity Theatre Club’s production of Murder on the Nile continues every night until Saturday. If you haven’t seen it, then what are you waiting for, as it’s a riveting production of this classic Agatha Christie whodunit?

Artspring Gallery holds another of its First Thursday events this evening from 5.30pm to 8pm, and it’s a chance for visitors to the gallery to meet some of its exhibiting artists and enjoy a glass of Prosecco. For more information, drop into the premises on the High Street or visit www.artspringgallery.co.uk Visitors are also encouraged to visit the Flow exhibition at Tonbridge School, which will be open especially for this evening. (See Saturday’s listings for more details).

It’s the final night to catch the much-acclaimed film The Post at the Hop Farm’s Moonlight Drive-in Cinema. Starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, it’s inspired by the true events of a government cover-up eventually exposed by America’s first female newspaper publisher and her hard-driving editor. Starting at 6.30pm, tickets cost £25 per vehicle. For more details, see www.moonlightcinema.com The National Trust’s International Garden of the Year is on once again at Sissinghurst Castle. The exhibition, which runs until April 13, showcases everything from portraits and panoramic shots of horticultural scenes to intricate flora and fauna details from both professional and amateur photographers. To find out more, visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/sissinghurst-castle-garden Tonight at 7.45pm, as part of Cranbrook

Would you like to get fit for spring? Then why not join the popular weekly park runs which happen at both Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells and the Castle Street recreation ground in Tonbridge.

They’re free to enter, all you have to do is register your details beforehand so you can participate in the 5k circuits, which start at 9am. For more information, see www.parkrun.org.uk If you love sourcing unique vintage finds for your home, then head on over to the Penhsurst Brocante at the village hall today where you’ll find all manner of fabulous French and vintage goodies. Stalls selling retro crockery, delicate linens and quirky objets d’art will be present from 10am until 3.30pm. Entrance costs £2 per person and refreshments will be served throughout the day. There will also be music from Miss Vintage. For more information, visit www.cherishthevintage.co.uk This is the final weekend to catch the Flow expo, which is currently showing at Tonbridge School’s OBS gallery. It is a wonderfully rich selection of ceramics, paintings, installations and photographs, and children are welcomed along to take part in the show’s special activity trail. Entrance is free and the show can be viewed every weekend from 12noon until 4pm until March 4.

For more information, visit www.tonbridgeschool.co.uk/obsg Today at King Charles Church Hall there will be a book fair of secondhand and rare collectible books from around 15 specialists. On from 9am until 3pm, there will be plenty of titles to browse.

Meanwhile, over at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery there will be a Placard Making workshop today to mark 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage. Running from 10.30am until 4pm, this very special Saturday Craft Club is for both adults and children. Placards were signs used during protest marches by suffragists to illustrate their point, often with a snappy or catchy phrase. So why not create your own placard just in time for International Women’s Day on March 8, when there will be a march through Tunbridge Wells and other events?

TONBRIDGE CREATES… A piece by Hannah Lino printer Shepheard

SUNDAY At Hever Castle at this particular time of year it’s all about the wonderful snowdrops that are currently in season, so make sure you pay it a visit to see the 70,000 plus varieties that are currently in bloom. For further details, visit www.hevercastle.co.uk West Kent ivc is a social group that meets on a regular basis and enjoys visits to historical places and the seaside as well as going out to eat, going ten pin bowling and to the cinema. So there are plenty of activities involved if you would like to get out and about and meet people, too. For more information, please call 0844588482, email: contact@westkentivc.org.uk or visit www.westkentivc.org.uk.

COLD COMFORT Sarah Lamb and Vadim Muntagirov dance The Winter’s Tale, which is being streamed live to the Odeon

PHOTO: Tristram Kenton/ROH

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Going Out

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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PICK OF THE WEEK:

A QUESTION OF SHAKESPEARE Dr Charles Moseley gives a fascinating talk at Tonbridge School

The Thing That Came from Over There!

Wednesday February 28 • EM Forster Theatre, Tonbridge, 7.30pm Inspired by the horror movies of the 1950s, The Thing That Came from Over There! is a ‘fast-paced, rollicking ride mixing paranoia, suspense and hilariously gruesome deaths’.

Penned by the critically-acclaimed Gonzo Moose, according to The Stage it’s an ‘An exuberant mash-up of improvisation, physical theatre, slapstick and satire’.

Set in 1912, as Scott and Amundsen begin their race across Antarctica, the hapless

MONDAY

Over the next four weeks, Tonbridge Creates will be running a pop-up arts hub in the town. The aim is to help local artists showcase and sell their work as well as to regenerate some of the empty shop units. According to its organiser, Louise Knight, the idea is to bring back ‘the local community to the heart of the town’. “Tonbridge Creates is on a mission to show off the town’s rich artistic and creative community,” she says.

“It wants to prove that if you support your creative community you can bring vitality and people back to the high street.” For more information on the event, visit www.tonbridgecreates.com

TUESDAY If you’ve just got to dance, then make sure you head over to the Assembly Hall this evening to

see Brendan Cole’s latest show All Night Long.

Kicking off at 7.30pm, it will see the former Strictly star joined by a sensational cast of guest dancers and a superbly talented 14-piece band with singers to show off his tantalising tango, romantic foxtrot and serene waltz. Tickets cost from £30. See www.assemblyhalltheatre.net Dr Charles Moseley normally teaches Classics and English Literature in the English Faculty of the University of Cambridge – but tonight he will be in the Cawthorne Lecture Theatre at Tonbridge School to give a talk intriguingly entitled Who Wrote Shakespeare? He will examine what we mean by the word ‘Shakespeare’, questioning whether it was more than one person who penned the Bard’s plays, and will explore what it was like to write during this period of history. Tickets cost £10 from www.emtheatre.com

explorer, Captain Reginald Cranston, has accidentally landed on the wrong side of the continent. As Cranston and his motley band set up base camp, rather randomly a meteor crashes nearby. The explorers decide to see what happened – totally oblivious of the danger that awaits not just them, but the whole of civilisation… Go along to find out what happens next. Tickets cost £15 and can be booked at www.emtheatre.com

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Going Out

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

THE TUNBRIDGE WELLS FORUM

THE ASSEMBLY HALL

Event information at www.twforum.co.uk Wednesday The Stable: Orange Bomb, The Mystic Shed, Paperfriend and Shape Friday The Pickering Jam: The Pillows, The Incredible Bert Alert, Tarot Rats, Alcatraz Blues, Infrared, Mitch Emery Stuff, Dance Commando, The Alley Devils, Code: Marla and Super Duper & the Ya Ya’s Saturday Mainly Madness, Millie Manders and The Shutup Sunday Sarah Savoy, Davide Rolland and Marius Pibarot

Crescent Road. See details of all events at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Sunday RTWSO: Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No 2, 3pm

THE GREY LADY MUSIC LOUNGE

live music With Paul Dunton

T

here’s some fantastic live music this week. On Wednesday night, the deeply talented Bea Everett headlines The Grey Lady with support from Dragonfly Sky, Aaric Snook and Isabella Coulstock.

Friday evening brings The Pickering Jam fundraiser at The Forum with a wealth of excellent local groups, including The Pillows, The Incredible Bert Alert, Tarot Rats, Alcatraz Blues, Infrared, Mitch Emery Stuff, Dance Commando, The Alley Devils, Code: Marla and Super Duper & the Ya Ya’s.

For jazz enthusiasts, renowned local pianist Ed Watts will be tinkling the ivories at the Scallywag Café, while Allen Beechey’s Bright Stars of

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

Jazz will be at The Masonic Hall.

On Saturday night, J.E.M are at The Beau Nash Tavern, Between Giants are at The Royal Oak, Timeless are at The Bedford and The Tar Babies are at The Grey Lady. The Forum, meanwhile, hosts Mainly Madness, Millie Manders and The Shutup.

This Sunday afternoon, the Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra will be performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No 2 at the Assembly Hall.

On Monday, I highly recommend Cosgrave & Banks at the Tonbridge Folk Club. And on Tuesday, the superb Stuka Cats are at The Punch & Judy in Tonbridge, and local musician Gez Gold hosts Open Mic Night at The Trading Post in Tunbridge Wells.

The Pantiles, doors 7.15pm, entry £6/£7 Websites www.pdag.co.uk and www.thegreylady.co.uk Wednesday Dragonfly Sky, Aaric Snook, Isabella Coulstock and Bea Everett Friday Jazz Club Night, with special guest Andy Williams Saturday The Tar Babies Sunday Rosie Pennie and Niamh McSmith

THE BEAU NASH TAVERN Mount Ephraim, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday J.E.M Monday Open Mic Night

Bea Everett

THE BEDFORD 2 High Street, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Timeless

THE ROYAL OAK Prospect Road, open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm till late Saturday Between Giants

MASONIC HALL St John’s Road. Doors 7pm, music from 8pm, tickets £15 on the door. More information at www.twjazzclub.co.uk Friday Allen Beechey’s Bright Stars of Jazz

THE TRADING POST 5 Culverden Down. Open all day, free entry, music from 8pm Tuesday Open Mic with Gez Gold

KING CHARLES THE MARTYR CHURCH Nevill Street. Concert starts 7.30pm.

Full details and ticket information at The Pillows

www.kcmtw.org/music/concerts Tuesday Ken Aiso (violin) and Sam Haywood (piano)

SCALLYWAG CAFÉ 45 Mount Ephraim Road. Open all day, entry charge may apply, music from 8.30pm. For more information, visit www.scallywagcafe.co.uk Friday Jazz Piano with Ed Watts

CASSIDY’S BAR Castle Street. Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm Friday Jam night with Between Giants

THE PUNCH & JUDY 11 St Stephen’s Street, Tonbridge Open all day, free entry, music from 8.30pm Tuesday The Stuka Cats

TONBRIDGE FOLK CLUB The Flying Dutchman, Hildenborough Hat collection with a suggested contribution of £7 (£5 concessions) Music from 8pm, all welcome See more information at www.tonbridgefolkclub.org Monday Cosgrave & Banks

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food

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Food & Drink

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Your chance to help create a fairer world for everyone Last year Tunbridge Wells celebrated ten years of being a Fairtrade town. Now, as we begin this year’s Fairtrade Fortnight, enthusiast Mandy Flashman-Wells tells Eileen Leahy why it’s vital we continue to support the world’s poorest producers

HE national Fairtrade Fortnight started on Monday and runs until March 11.

During this time, the Fairtrade Organisation encourages the British public to think about the type of products they buy and question whether they are ethically sourced or not.

Each Fairtrade Fortnight has a different theme, and this year’s is to ‘Come On In’ challenging the public to open their doors to fair trade and help ‘close the door on the exploitation facing the people who produce the things we love to eat, drink, and wear’.

It also invites us to come into the world of the people who grow our food to see what life can be like when farmers and workers aren’t paid fairly, and it explores how businesses, farmers, workers and shoppers come together through Fairtrade to change this.

Over the next two weeks there will be thousands of events taking place all over the UK, including special breakfasts and bake-offs, and Tunbridge Wells has plenty going on to mark the event, too.

The campaign for it to become a Fairtrade

‘The community has played a central role in gaining and maintaining Fairtrade Town status, but we are hoping that together we can do more’ Town started in 2004, and after three years of sustained work it was awarded its Fairtrade Town status in 2007.

According to Mandy Flashman-Wells, from Tunbridge Wells’ Fairtrade Town Group – an initiative run by the Tunbridge Wells Churches Social Responsibility Group – Fairtrade has

at its heart the Bible theme of justice in the marketplace. And this is something we can all help with, she says: “In order to achieve and maintain Fairtrade Town status, the involvement and support of the council, businesses, local shops, schools, faith and community groups continues to be essential. The community has played a central role in gaining and maintaining Fairtrade Town status, but we are hoping that together we can do more.”

This, she says, includes getting local schools working towards gaining Fairtrade School status and getting more businesses

involved, which would mean gaining the Fairtrade Workplace of World Changers award.

“It would be great if visitors were offered Fairtrade in our hotels, public houses and restaurants right across the town,” Mandy adds. “Fairtrade Town status, says much about the citizens of Tunbridge Wells.

Together we are working for trade justice and standing up for the people who produce our food.”

Anyone who is thinking about making a change to Fairtrade at home has a huge range of choices, says Mandy.

“As individuals, we have the power to end exploitation. The impact of our simple choices, like our morning cup of tea or coffee, can make a real difference to the lives of producers across the world.”

The Fairtrade fortnight

Food & Drink

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

events in Tunbridge Wells will be focusing on workers in the football and jewellery industries.

“Whilst many people recognise the Fairtrade mark on food products, very few know about the plight of those workers who make the 40 million footballs sold worldwide every year, or of the gold miners who are suffering with poverty and working in terrible conditions, so we decided to focus our events slightly differently this year,” Mandy comments.

Using the theme of ‘Play Fair, Pay Fair’, St Gregory’s Catholic School and Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys are holding interschool Fairtrade football tournaments during Fairtrade Fortnight, and a similar tournament is being planned with some primary schools.

There is also a Gold event at the Town Hall which hopes to raise the profile of Fairtrade gold.

“Having few other options for earning a living, 16 million men, women and children are pushed into small-scale gold mining by poverty,” Mandy

explains. “They work in hazardous conditions with very few health and safety measures, using dangerous chemicals such as mercury and cyanide to extract the gold. This presents dangers to the miners’ health, pollution of the environment and contamination of local water supplies.

“Fairtrade is working with these miners to help them improve working conditions, eliminate child labour and to change the way they handle and use chemicals, protecting not only their own health, but that of the environment.

“Miners are paid a fair price plus a premium to invest in their families and communities.”

You can find more information about the campaign at: www.fairtrade.org.uk/fortnight Follow #FairtradeFortnight to keep up to date with all the latest social media activity.

To find out more about what’s happening to support the fortnight in Tunbridge Wells, please email: contact@twfairtrade.org or visit www.twfairtrade.org.uk

FAIRTRADE FACTS ■ Fairtrade started more than 22 years ago and is the most widely recognised ethical label in the world. There are now over 4,500 Fairtrade certified products for sale in the UK ■ The organisation currently works with 1.6 million farmers and workers across 74 developing countries, providing a safety net against volatile market prices and the Fairtrade Premium ■ The concept behind Fairtrade is simple, products labelled with the Fairtrade mark

provide a guarantee to consumers that the farmers and workers involved in its production have received a fair price for their products ■ In turn, they can support their communities and families at home, improving healthcare, education, business development and infrastructure ■ Last year’s Fairtrade campaign saw more than 5,000 events held in communities, schools, workplaces and places of worship across the UK

WHAT’S ON WHERE FOR FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT February 27 & March 9 – Interschools football tournaments Taking place at St Gregory’s Catholic School and Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys on both dates. The Mayor will be present at the first tournament March 9 – The Fairtrade Gold Breakfast will be held in the Town Hall with guest speaker Greg Valerio, MBE, pioneer of Fairtrade Gold. He has a background in human rights advocacy, anti-poverty campaigning and the promotion of ecological sustainability. He is an award-winning ethical jeweller, author and public speaker

There are

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coffee beans in an espresso

Coffee is an obvious product to make Fairtrade…

Smallholders produce the majority of the world’s coffee

Columbia is the largest producer of Fairtrade coffee Number of people worldwide dependent on coffee for their livelihoods:

70 125 million

Coffee is grown in over countries

Over half of the coffee produced worldwide comes from just

3

countries

DID YOU KNOW?

Amongst the largest coffeeproducing countries, many still have over ten percent of their populations living below

US$1.90

a day, which is below the World Bank extreme poverty line

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Food & Drink

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Fantastically Fairtrade Now you’ve read all about how you can introduce Fairtrade products into your kitchen, here’s how to cook tasty dishes using them…

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 3 ½ hours Serves 4-6 INGREDIENTS

For the ribs: 2kg individual, meaty Freedom Food pork ribs 2 tbsp vegetable oil 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped 10cm piece of fresh ginger, finely chopped 6 spring onions, roughly chopped 1 tsp dried chilli flakes 2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder 1 tsp ground Fairtrade cinnamon 650ml chicken stock 250ml rice wine or dry sherry 200ml Fairtrade soy sauce 150g Fairtrade demerara sugar 4 tbsp sesame oil Grated zest of 2 unwaxed Fairtrade oranges

Cabbage slaw: 800g red cabbage 1 red onion, deseeded 3 red chillies 150ml white wine vinegar 50g Fairtrade caster sugar 100ml coconut milk 4 tbsp fresh coriander leaves 4 tbsp fresh mint leaves Sea salt and freshly ground Fairtrade black pepper

METHOD:

Preheat the oven to 140°C/fan 120°C/gas 1. Place the ribs in a large roasting tin

1

Heat a frying pan until hot, add the vegetable oil and heat until smoking, then add the garlic, ginger and spring onions and stir-fry quickly for 30 seconds. Add the spices and fry for another few seconds, then add the stock, rice wine or sherry, soy sauce and sugar and bring to a simmer.

Cook for a couple of minutes until the

sugar has dissolved, then add the sesame oil and orange zest and stir to combine. Pour the mixture straight over the ribs and toss so that everything is coated in the sauce. Cover with foil and cook in the oven for 2¼ hours.

2

Meanwhile, for the cabbage slaw, slice the red cabbage, onion and chillies as thinly as you can. Heat the vinegar, sugar and coconut milk in a pan until simmering. Once the sugar has melted, put the red cabbage mixture in a bowl and pour the hot vinegar mixture over the top, stirring well. Leave to steep for at least 15 minutes, then add the rest of the slaw ingredients, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.

3

Remove the foil and turn the ribs over in the sauce until they are well glazed, then return to the oven, uncovered, for another 45 minutes, until just sticky – you might want to turn them again during this time.

Remove the ribs from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Turn them once more in the glaze before serving. Pile them on to a serving platter with a bowl of the cabbage alongside, and dig in.

Recipe courtesy of Tate & Lyle

James Martin’s Chinese-spiced pork ribs with cabbage slaw

10-minute Fairtrade chocolate fudge A rich, velvety smooth chocolate fudge that is wonderfully easy to make

Preparation 5 mins Cooking 5 mins Serving 50 pieces

Recipe courtesy of James Martin

INGREDIENTS: THE FUDGE: 397g can condensed milk 400g Fairtrade milk chocolate, roughly chopped 25g butter 100g Tate & Lyle Fairtrade Dark Muscovado Sugar DECORATION: 2 x 40g Fairtrade crunchy chocolate bars

METHOD:

1

Lightly butter a 20cm square baking tin, line with baking parchment and set to one side.

Spoon condensed milk into a large, heavy-based saucepan and add the milk chocolate, butter and sugar.

2

Gently heat, stirring all the time until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. This should take around 5 minutes.

3

Carefully tip the hot mixture into the prepared tin and level off the top. Allow to cool for 30 minutes. Place the crunchy chocolate bars in a food bag and gently bash with a rolling pin into nice chunks.

Scatter over the fudge and gently press down so that it stays in place.

Chill for an hour, or overnight, until firm. Cut into 2cm x 4 cm pieces and serve.

Food & Drink

drink

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

CHEERS! Here’s to the world’s ethical drink producers

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Raise a (large) glass to…

Fairtrade Fortnight

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UNNING until March 11, Fairtrade Fortnight is the perfect opportunity to back the Fairtrade farmers and workers who grow food and produce increasingly better quality wines – yes there’s more to Fairtrade than bananas, coffee and chocolate.

The admirable Fairtrade project, most active in Chile, Argentina and South Africa, has come a long way, assuring growers and producers a fair price for their grapes, the so-called ‘Fairtrade Minimum Price’, which aims to cover their average cost of sustainable production, or the market price, whichever is higher.

The scheme aims to offer better wages, upgrade working conditions and raise standards of living for its workers and families. The UK is the leading global market, so there’s plenty of choice under £15 – but few bottles have star quality. Here are three quality Fairtrade wines for compassionate readers that have impressed Times wine expert James Viner.

1. VIVA ARGENTINA!

Tilimuqui Fairtrade Single Vineyard Organic Torrontés 2017, Argentina (£9.49, Waitrose) Perfumed Torrontés (Riojano) is the poster boy/girl for Argentinian white wine. Here’s a delicious, floral, grapefruit and lime marmalade-stashed example, with just enough of Torrontés’ Muscatlike grapiness and (lightly) spicy pizzazz. Standout supermarket white Fairtrade vino from the La Riojana co-op, the world’s first certified/biggest single Fairtrade wine producer. It works supremely when well chilled with meaty empanadas, Thai dishes, prawn curry, roast chicken or chicken satay. Very moreish. Alc 12.5%

Aldi. Tropical fruit-tinged and GrannySmith-apple-scented, it will love chicken, white fish and Indian dishes. It’s an appealing, crown capped, light aperitif with an eye-catching colourful label.

Perhaps best relished chilled with a smile on your face. Unbeatable value. Alc 12.5%

2 1

2. CRAFTY BY THE (LARGE) GLASS HIGH-STREET CHOICE

Craft & Origin Fairtrade Chenin Blanc-Grenache Blanc 2017, Western Cape, South Africa (£1.99, Aldi, 25cl) Looking for an appetising, midweek dry white by the (big) glass? Try this bargain from

3

3. MUST-TRY LEBANESE LOVELY; OR TURNING WEED INTO WINE

Coteaux Les Cèdres du Liban 2014, Coteaux Heliopolis Cooperative, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon (£11.99, Co-op) Readers looking to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight with a delectable, ethicallysourced bottle, will find a comprehensive range in their local Co-op, still the world’s largest FT wine retailer. This rollicking, full-bodied Lebanese medley of organically-grown high altitude Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Tempranillo and local Arinarnoa fills the mouth with its Magimix blend of red cherries, wild strawberries and nutmeg in a plum landscape. An altogether exotic, stylish and serious quality FT contender from the northern part of Bekaa Valley, where the Lebanese state has struggled to assert its authority (in 1999, farmers from 11 villages in the region created the Heliopolis co-op with the aim of abandoning the cultivation of illicit crops, namely replacing endless fields of cannabis with righteous/ more lucrative grapevines).

Enjoy with sirloin steak, roast lamb or slow-cooked smoky beef ribs. Alc 13.5%

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travel

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Travel

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Isn’t it a

wonder?

There is nowhere quite like Egypt, with its glittering treasures, ancient wonders and the timeless River Nile – now is the perfect time to rediscover one of the great icons of world travel SUPERB SIGHT Karnak – the largest religious building ever built

The three majestic examples that rise from the Giza Plateau date back to around 2,500 BC. The largest and oldest, the ‘Great Pyramid’, was commissioned by the 4th Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu (also known as Cheops). It was recognised as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and is today the only one of those seven to survive.

‘On the West Bank there is the Valley of the Queens, the splendid Temple of Hatshepsut and the Ramesseum, with a fallen statue said to have inspired Shelley’s poem Ozymandias’

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O travel bucket list would be complete without ticking off the myriad attractions of Egypt. It’s a country of unparalleled historical and cultural fascination, from the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza to the sun-baked Valley of the Kings, or the monumental Temple of Karnak to the stunning funerary treasure of Tutankhamun, and the bustling bazaars to the tranquillity of white-sailed feluccas on the Nile.

THE TEMPLE OF HATSHEPSUT Named after the only female pharaoh in ancient Egyptian history

THE PYRAMIDS OF GIZA Ancient Egyptians were strong believers in the afterlife, and pharaohs expected to become gods in the next world. Ever more elaborate tombs were built in preparation for this ascension – either richly decorated and packed with treasures or vast, skyscraping structures acting both as protection for the pharaoh’s corporeal form and glorification of their life on earth.

So arose the tradition of pyramid-building.

Until the 20th century the largest building in the world, it is estimated to have required over 100,000 labourers and slaves – and 20 years of work – to haul 2,000,000 limestone blocks weighing as much as ten tons each, into place. The mathematics and engineering involved is astounding.

Khufu’s son, Khafre, commissioned the second pyramid as well as the sphinx which stands guard inscrutably nearby, and Khafre’s son Menkaure the third pyramid, believed to be so much smaller because he was a more benevolent ruler than his father and grandfather, less willing to push his subjects to desperate extremes.

MEMPHIS AND SAKKARA The Pyramids of Giza did not spring up in isolation. Today, we know of around 80 Egyptian pyramids, with many more in Sudan (ancient Nubia), and some surviving examples present an excellent timeline of the evolution of this monumental craft.

The most fascinating of these is the ‘Step Pyramid’ at Sakkara, some 20 miles south of Cairo, which predates the Giza pyramids by a century or two – smaller and less sophisticated, but an essential ‘stepping stone’ in identifying the art of the possible.

There are other pyramids and tombs to admire in this extensive necropolis, and a ten-metre-tall colossus of Ramses II and a beautiful alabaster sphinx at nearby Memphis, capital of the Old Kingdom, now an open air museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

CAIRO Egypt’s vibrant capital can count amongst its many highlights great historic mosques, hectic bazaars and the broad span of the River Nile (along which glide elegant dinner cruise ships come the evening).

But visitors should not miss the Egyptian Museum, a collection of ancient artefacts without compare. The jewels in its crown are the gilded treasures of the boy-king Tutankhamun, including his iconic, shimmering death mask, solid gold coffin and exquisite works of sculpture.

The museum’s Mummy Room, containing the 3,500-year-old royal mummies reclaimed from

Travel

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

the Valley of the Kings, makes for a unique and eerie experience.

THE PAINTINGS ON THE WALL Ancient murals inside The Temple of Hatshepsut in Valley of the Kings

The hall of columns at Karnak, 134 gigantic pillars adorned with carved hieroglyphs, still has the power to astonish. When fully enclosed and richly coloured, as it would have been in ancient times, it must have been a truly stunning sight.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Every one of the above attractions may be visited on extended excursions from a cruise ship, generally with two-night overland tours to Cairo and Luxor, but other sites of interest are much more accessible from the ports.

Alexandria, the city of Cleopatra, presents the opportunity to visit the city’s amazing new library or travel along the coast road to the battlefield of El Alamein. Suez, too, looms large in 20th-century British history, and the canal is a magnificent engineering achievement.

And from Ain Sokhna you can visit the oldest Christian monasteries in the world – those of St Anthony and St Paul.

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Egypt & India cruise Voyages to Antiquity’s 37-day Passage to Ancient Egypt & India cruise, departing December 6, 2018, includes overland tours to Cairo (with visits to the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum) and Luxor (Valley of the Kings and Karnak), along with stops in Ain Sokhna (for the monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul), Athens, Aqaba (for Petra), Salalah, Muscat, Porbandar and Mumbai.

It concludes with another five-day overland tour of India’s Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur).

Prices are from £6,295 per person. Contact your local Baldwins Travel office to book.

LUXOR, KARNAK AND THE VALLEY OF THE KINGS The cache of riches recovered from Tutankhamun’s tomb was unfortunately unique.

Every other royal burial chamber in the Valley of the Kings, on the West Bank of the Nile near the pleasant town of Luxor, had been raided by tomb-robbers in the millennia since.

But the extraordinary wall frescoes remain. Vividly coloured and demonstrating sublime artistic skill, they depict gods and goddesses, scenes of pharaonic life, and guidance for the kings in the afterlife.

The tomb of Ramses VI is perhaps the most impressive, and the much plainer tomb of Tutankhamun is also a must-see, if only to imagine how, in 1922, Howard Carter must have felt upon seeing for the first time the ‘wonderful things’ that it contained.

Luxor, site of ancient Thebes, is a historical wonderland. On the West Bank, in addition to the Valley of the Kings, there is the scarcely less mesmerising (but much less visited) Valley of the Queens, the splendid Temple of Hatshepsut (a powerful female pharaoh of the 15th century BC) and the Ramesseum, with a massive fallen statue said to have inspired Shelley’s poem Ozymandias.

On the East Bank, the modern town has grown up around Luxor Temple, in almost continuous use as a place of worship for 4,000 years, and once linked by a two-mile-long Avenue of Sphinxes (some of which remain) to Karnak, another awe-inspiring temple complex.

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STILL ON GUARD The Great Sphinx of Giza outside the pyramids

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Look Good, Feel Good

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

SLEEP WELL Limited Edition Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle, £25, www.thisworks.com

BODY BEAUTIFUL Hibiscus Palm Body Cream, £44, available from all AERIN counters and www.esteelauder.co.uk/ AERIN

PERFECT SKIN Limited Edition Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, Lavender & Vetiver, £23.50 Available from Boots and www.lizearle.com

Because she’s worth it Spoil your mother on March 11 with one of these beautiful pampering treats. It’s sure to make her day – and enhance her beauty regime, says Kitty Argent

COMPACT AND BIJOUX Chantecaille 20th Anniversary Eye Palette, £76, www.spacenk.com SCENT OF A WOMAN Diptyque Tempo EDP, £115, www.diptyqueparis.co.uk When it comes to buying a gift for Mother’s Day it can often be hard to think of something original that your mum will really love and use.

And while bouquets of flowers and boxes of chocolates are always a good bet, their shelf life is pretty short.

Beauty items, however, are always a sure-fire winner, and even if your mother doesn’t wear make-up, we’re sure she’ll still be partial to a fresh new fragrance or scented candle.

Here are theknow’s favourite pampering treats that will definitely put a smile on the recipient’s face on March 11…

BRONZE AGE Self Tanning Anti Age Serum, £29.95 for 15ml Available from M&S and www.vitaliberata.com

Look Good, Feel Good

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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Return of the mac There’s one style staple that will never go out of fashion: The classic trench coat. During the recent fashion shows in Paris, London and Milan, they were spied in all sorts of guises, from the original butterscotch Burberry to switched-up versions with fluted sleeves and myriad colourways. If you want to invest in one without having to pay a fortune for a designer garment, then try this New Look mac (pictured left) for size, says Eileen Leahy…

NOW GET THE LOOK TIMELESS STYLE Coach Delancey tan slim watch, £195, www.coach.com

IN THE LOOP

BOOTY CALL

NU & MII Hammered Gold Hoops, £62, available from www. anniehaakdesigns. co.uk

Taupe ankle boots, £50, www. jdwilliams.com

BAG THIS

EARN YOUR STRIPES Yellow striped skirt, £25, www. misselfridge.com THE PERFECT COVER-UP: Coat, £49.99; T-shirt, £4.99; skirt, £19.99; and boots, £24.99 – all at New Look www.newlook.com

HANGING AROUND Tommy Hilfiger Gold Necklace, £40, available from www. hourtime.co.uk

White tote bag, £38, www. riverisland.com

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Motoring

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

FIRST DRIVE:

The new

Jaguar

F-Type WHAT IS IT?

Here’s a Jaguar F-Type – but not quite as you’d know it. Rather than a raucous V8 or V6 under the long, sculpted bonnet, there’s a 2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

While that may not sound like enough for a red-blooded convertible, Jaguar claims that it’s got what it takes to instil the F-Type with proper performance. And it means drop-top thrills and wind-inyour-hair experiences with slightly better economy figures than with more high-powered F-Types.

WHAT’S NEW?

This latest-generation F-Type has a variety of tweaks and updates.

LED headlights now feature all round and the infotainment system uses the latest Jaguar set-up. The bumpers have been redesigned for a more dynamic look, and standard lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels are said to help ‘reduce unsprung mass’.

Inside, aluminium finishers have been used to help lift the cabin – and this is needed, as it can sometimes feel like a particularly dark cockpit.

WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?

The ‘Ingenium’ petrol engine is surprisingly powerful and, according to Jaguar, offers the ‘highest specific power output of any engine in the F-Type range’ with 148bhp per litre.

Overall, it produces 296bhp and 400Nm of torque, and it has an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox.

Acceleration takes a claimed 5.7

Much to the annoyance of sports car purists, Jaguar has fitted a four-cylinder engine to its F-Type. Jack Evans investigates

seconds, while the top speed sits at a respectable 155mph.

Jaguar claims it’ll return 39.2mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting just 163g/km CO2. For context, a Golf GTI produces 139g/ km CO2 – despite being far lighter.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Jaguar says that fitting this engine has shed 52kg compared to the base V6. In addition, the engineers have uniquely calibrated the steering and chassis to better exploit that lower weight.

As a result, it turns just a little sharper than the regular car, while the front end feels noticeably lighter. This makes it more agile overall, and it feels just a little less unwieldly than larger-engined cars.

Performance is more than adequate for a sports car of this nature, and though the sound of the engine may not be conventional, to our ears it sounded interesting enough.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The F-Type has always been an impressively pretty design. Though somewhat updated for 2018, the four-cylinder is still just as good to look at, with cuts and grooves in all the right places.

The design has been in the public eye since 2011, yet it’s still fresh and turns heads wherever you go.

The four-cylinder car is fitted with a single central outlet exhaust, rather than the V6’s dual central outlet or the V8’s quad tail pipes.

It actually suits the design of the F-Type well, and doesn’t spoil the rear of the car whatsoever.

WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?

The F-Type’s interior has always been a mix of high and low-end materials, and the four-cylinder’s the same. There are some harsher plastics in some areas, though the overall effect is good.

The driver’s seat has plenty of adjustment, and the same can be said for the steering wheel. Those seats are hugely comfortable too, and provide plenty of lateral support. Our test car’s seats were also heated – a welcome feature.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Our car was dressed in R-Dynamic spec, and these start at £59,085.

But it does have a lot of standard equipment, including full LED headlights, six-way electrically adjustable seats and a

switchable active sports exhaust – the latter transforming the character of the engine. You also get automatic rain-sensing wipers and an eight-inch colour touchscreen.

The infotainment system operates well enough, though the icons seem a bit dated, and the touchscreen is accurate and responsive.

Our test car came in at a hefty £67,320 due to the inclusion of 19-inch alloy wheels, red brake callipers and larger front and rear brakes – a £2,290 option.

VERDICT

The engine makes a lot of sense – it’s cheaper to run and sharp to drive. Yes, it may not have the level of drama that comes with the larger-capacity units, but it’s still a very impressive package – and one most enthusiastic drivers would be pleased to get behind the wheel of.

This is a real showcase of how downsizing doesn’t have to mean diminished levels of fun.

Motoring News

Shock over ministers still in thrall to diesel DESPITE the government’s increasingly anti-diesel rhetoric, more than half of the cars used by ministers – including Prime Minister Theresa May and Chancellor Philip Hammond – are diesels.

And in April, new road tax rules are set to penalise diesel drivers further.

A Freedom of Information investigation by Car Dealer magazine found that of the government’s pool of 84 ministerial vehicles, 49 are still diesel-powered.

Motoring journalist Quentin Willson said the figures were ‘shameful’.

Car Dealer magazine founder James Baggott added: “When the government has waged a war on diesel car buyers, quite incorrectly so, it’s staggering to learn that 58 pe cent of the fleet used by ministers – including the Chancellor who has been leading the battle – are still diesel-powered. These mixed messages are damaging the car industry.”

The government said ten of the cars listed were due for renewal in February, but didn’t reveal which models would replace them.

Corsa goes all-electric VAUXHALL has confirmed it will launch an electric version of its Corsa hatchback in 2020 – set to be the manufacturer’s first all-electric car.

PSA Group bought Vauxhall and Opel last year and the new Corsa will be the British marque’s first car under French ownership.

Fellow PSA Group brand DS is working on a hybrid version of its DS 7 Crossback, so it’s likely that technology developed for that project will be used in the Corsa EV. Following the launch of the Corsa EV, at least four more electrified Vauxhalls will be launched before 2024.

The popular Corsa is 25 years old this year.

THE KNOWLEDGE: MODEL TESTED:

Jaguar F-Type Convertible Four-Cylinder ENGINE: 2-litre

turbocharged petrol POWER: 296bhp TORQUE: 400Nm

MAX SPEED: 155mph 0-62MPH: 5.7 seconds MPG: 39.2 (combined) EMISSIONS:

163g/km CO2 PRICE AS TESTED:

£67,320

Car will run for 500 miles HYUNDAI has announced that its Nexo hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle [FCEV] will have a range of 500 miles, meaning it will be capable of driving from Birmingham to Dusseldorf in one charge.

This puts its range at almost 100 miles ahead of the nearest competitor on the market.

Hyundai’s UK CEO and Chairman Tony Whitehorn said the Nexo will go on sale at the end of 2018, and added: “We need more hydrogen filling stations, but it is coming. The government is gradually giving funding for more and more stations. This is the future.”

The Nexo will have an efficiency rating of 60 per cent, making it 30 per cent more efficient than an average internal combustion engine.

In addition, Hyundai claims the battery technology will be so advanced that the SUV will be capable of enduring 100,000 miles of motoring at 30 degrees below freezing.

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Motoring

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Recruitment

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

WITH THE

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

OF TUNBRIDGE WELLS AND TONBRIDGE

Recruitment

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

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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.

2 9 3 7 6 2 5 6 8 4 7 8

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Codeword:

4 3 9 9 5

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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© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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LAST WEEK’S 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

C A B A R E O O H H I N D U E A B N U N A V Z R F L A B B Y E D I ON Y S E R R U B B I N A I R L A T H E

T H R I O B S J A I L N D E V X I A C A I G S R E A U D

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9 1 5 7 4 2 6 3 8

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Sudoku:

3 2 5 8 9 6 4 7 1

1 8 4 5 2 7 9 3 6

9 7 6 1 3 4 8 2 5

7 6 8 2 1 9 3 5 4

8 1 2 9 6 3 5 4 7

6 4 3 7 5 1 2 8 9

Jigsaw Sudoku:

5 9 2 4 1 6 7 8 3

1 7 8 6 9 3 4 2 5

6 3 4 2 7 5 8 9 1

8 4 3 9 5 1 2 6 7

4 5 1 8 6 9 3 7 2

7 8 9 3 2 4 1 5 6

© 2016 Syndicated Puzzles

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Sporting Times

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

Wednesday February 28 | 2018

Wells men need just one point to Glubb’s strike keeps secure back-to-back promotions Ladies in third place

Bromley & Beckenham 1 Tunbridge Wells Ladies 1

London Academicals 3 Tunbridge Wells Men 6

By Francis Bridgeman HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS went into this fixture knowing that a win for them and anything but victory for Guildford would mean promotion from South Premier League Division Two at the first time of asking.

This knowledge seemed to weigh on the visitors’ minds and they were unable to string passes together. For the second time in three weeks they fell behind to two sloppy goals early in the first half.

However, as they have shown this season, this Tunbridge Wells side does

not know when to give up and they soon pulled one goal back with a quickreaction strike which Jack French deftly touched in at the back post.

After that two further goals from James Beck, including a rocket of a corner, gave Wells a 3-2 lead at half-time.

In the second half the visitors came out with better patience and shape and showed the dominance that has seen them mount such an impressive campaign. Dan Masters scored a fine individual goal before Harry Roberts tucked home from close range, and Masters finished off the scoring with a well-taken rebound late on.

By Francis Bridgeman

However, Guildford prevailed 3-2 against Trojans and remain technically in the hunt to go up, though Wells now only need a single point from the last four games to secure back-to-back promotions They head South Premier League Division Two by six points from Banbury (and 12 from Guildford) and will be looking to round off the campaign as champions - though they face both those sides in their final two games.

They will be looking to confirm their elevated status when they entertain mid-table Wycombe at Kent College on Saturday (March 3, 1.30pm).

HOCKEY: TUNBRIDGE WELLS Ladies came away from Bromley as the only team in East Region Division One South not to have lost against league leaders Brom & Becks this season.

After a 1-1 draw in the first half of the season there was plenty left over from that encounter to ensure another competitive game.

Wells had decided to apply pressure high up the pitch for the first 20 minutes and a fine passage of passing led to an early goal by Ana Glubb on the backhand.

This ignited a big push for Wells which resulted in a lot of pressure in

front of goal but not enough cutting edge to score another.

Bromley & Beckenham picked up the intensity late in the half and forced the visitors on to the back foot, converting a well-executed penalty corner just before the interval.

The second half was entirely different to the first, with much of the play in the middle of the pitch. Both teams were pushing hard but neither had many real chances on goal.

The draw keeps the Ladies in third place in the table with three games remaining, the first of which is at home to Holcombe at Hawkenbury this Saturday (March 3, 1pm start).

Tonbridge men turn on the style to retain national cross country crown

By Mark Hookway ATHLETICS: THE men’s team of Tonbridge Athletic Club retained their English National Cross Country title in style at Parliament Hill in North

London on Saturday.

This time around it was an emphatic victory, with one of the lowest scores in the history of the event and one of the largest winning margins.

Last year at Nottingham the team had scraped

their first ever ‘national’ win by just four points, with the last of the six scorers being Charlie Joslin-Allen in 145th.

This time around it was a completely different story as Joslin-Allen had a tremendous race for 37th, but wasn’t even in the Tonbridge scoring team.

A total of 2,328 finished the race and 162 clubs closed scoring teams, with Tonbridge finishing on just 131 points, far ahead of Bristol’s 291 and Aldershot with 314.

Target

HOT PURSUIT: The men’s team hold on to their title; Pictured from left to right are, George Duggan, Chris Olley, Ben Cole, Ryan Driscoll, Max Nicholls, Robbie Farnham-Rose

The team was led home by Chris Olley in fifth place, once again showing that he is one of the most consistent distance runners in the UK. He recorded a time of 40min 19sec over the extremely tough 12km course and was just 18 seconds from securing an individual medal.

George Duggan was next home in 14th, returning to his very best form. The team win completed a remarkable sequence of medals for Duggan, who has contributed to nine consecutive Tonbridge podium places through the age groups at the championships - he also won individual titles at under-13 and under-15.

Ben Cole, the oldest member of the team, ran his best ever cross country race to take 18th spot

and will now look towards the London Marathon as his next target.

Robbie Farnham-Rose was the fourth scorer and had to battle hard on terrain that he hasn’t been used to in recent years, having been based in the USA on a scholarship at Alabama University. He finished in 26th, with GB mountain runner Max Nicholls not far behind in 33rd.

Ryan Driscoll, the Tonbridge club record-holder for the steeplechase, completed the scoring team in 35th, finding his form after struggling in recent races.

Olivia Breed finished second for the Under-13 girls’ team, securing the only other medal of the day and helping her team to 12th place out of 51 entries.

Fraser Gordon finished fifth in the U15 boys’ race, helping his team to fifth position overall with over 500 runners finishing the event.

Lucy Reid put aside a recent bout of flu to record an excellent 18th place in the senior women’s race. With Nicole Taylor (25th), Maria Heslop (103rd) and Tin Oldershaw (145th) the team came eighth from 112 clubs.

Among the other Tonbridge teams taking part, the U13 boys were 12th, U15 girls 26th, U17 women 10th, U17 men eighth, U20 women sixth and U20 men fourth.

Caitlin amasses 11 golds in club’s best display at county level SWIMMING: TONBRIDGE Swimming Club recorded their best performance at the County Championships after completing the fourth and final weekend.

They finished seventh in the overall pointscoring and sixth in the medal table, behind much bigger clubs from across the county.

Twelve-year-old Caitlin Ebbage achieve a first for the club with a full house of 16 finals and top eight finishes. She amassed a haul of 11 gold medals, one silver, and two bronzes.

In the boys 200m IM, which consists of 50m of all four strokes, 13-year-old Ollie Isaacs captured an excellent bronze medal, achieving a big personal best (PB) and an automatic qualification time for the South East Regionals (SER auto).

In the same event, 11-year-old Josh Prendergast recovered from illness to come fifth with a big PB and also an SER auto time.

In the girls’ 50m backstroke, Caitlin set a new PB and an SER record which consolidated her position as No 1 in the region and moved her up to second in the GB national rankings.

She also qualified for the Open Age group final at the end of the session and swam to fourth place in a

race against girls who were 16 and 17 year-old-.

In the same discipline Cicily Thomas-Green (11) powered to a new long-course PB, and Sarah Brown (17) recorded a new PB and club record.

The boys’ 50m butterfly saw PBs for all three Tonbridge boys, Ollie, Ruben Antello-Cowley (10) - qualifying for his first Kent final and coming eighth, and Dan Brice (13), taking sixth in his first event at this year’s championships, recording an SER auto time. In the boys’ 50m breaststroke all five swimmers had new PBs. Josh qualified for yet another final in his debut year and came sixth; Toby Henbest (13) shook out a five-second PB in the 14 years age group and earnt himself a SER base qualifying time. Dan and Charlie Curtis (15) continued the trend and Ollie came fifth in the final.

Caitlin registered another PB pb in the final to win gold in the girls’ 50m freestyle while Sarah Brown earnt herself a new club record in her heat.

Caitlin continued on her gold rush by winning the girls’ 200m IM for the second year in succession by a five-second margin, moving her up to ninth in the national rankings.

In the boys 50m backstroke, Charlie Brice shaved 1.5 seconds off his PB while Josh made

another final in the 12 years age group and swam to sixth, knocking two seconds off his PB. Ollie took five seconds off his 50 in the 14 years age, and Dan qualified for his final in second place and then swam another PB to win the bronze medal and record an SER Auto time.

The girls’ 50 butterfly saw Caitlin swim to a three-second long-course PB to bag her 11th gold medal of the championships and move her to sixth in GB rankings and first in the region.

Tonbridge had four girls in the 50m breaststroke, all gaining PBs as well as valuable county experience: Holly Geake (12), Mia Devey (12), Caitlin (12) and Ellis Kottas, who reached her first county final in her favourite event and came eighth.

The boys’ 50m freestyle was the last event and Charlie (10) kept up his 100 per cent record of PBs while Ruben also achieved a PB in the same age group. Ollie qualified for the final in fifth place, recording his first sub-28 time in 27.92sec, then went faster in the final, lowering his new PB to 27.73 and touching in fourth place. The club’s most successful Kent championships had been a team effort from all the club’s swimmers over the four weekends, and they racked up 11 SER Base times and 23 SER Auto times.

MAKING A SPLASH: (Back row, l-r) Caitlin Ebbage, Ollie Isaacs; (middle) Joshua Prendergast, Charlie Brice; (front) Sarah Brown and Dan Brice

Sporting Times

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Three wins in a row as young talent Youth cricket’s steps up to bolster depleted squad just the ticket Tonbridge Angels 2 Metropolitan Police 0 FOOTBALL: A BLEND of youth and experience saw Tonbridge Angels to a comfortable victory against a strangely lacklustre Metropolitan Police side.

It was the home side’s third win on the bounce in the Bostik League Premier, the revival coming despite manager Steve McKimm having had to release three players from the first team squad because of financial troubles.

TEENAGE KICKS Liam Smith, 18, scored his first senior goal

PHOTO: David Couldridge

Important They also had to cope with the loss of their holding midfielder, Craig Stone, to injury after four minutes, forcing them to reorganise their defence.

Yet Tonbridge had much the better of the first half with chances falling to Sam Bantick in the opening exchanges and Alex Akrofi on 15 minutes.

The breakthrough came after 27 minutes following a great move involving Callum Adonis-Taylor and Akrofi, with Joe Turner applying the finishing touch.

Despite three chances falling to the Met’s Lloyd Macklin, it was the Angels who continued to

dominate with further opportunities for Turner and Bantick.

In terms of goalmouth action it was to prove a quieter second half but the home side had a confidence about their play despite having to field a

number of their younger players due to injury and budget cuts.

That confidence was confirmed in the 51st minute when 18-year-old Liam Smith stole round the back of the Met defence to plant a header from Turner’s corner to claim his first senior strike.

With the two-goal cushion the home side were comfortable and it wasn’t until stoppage time that the Police showed why they are potential play-off contenders with substitute Ryan Myers and Jay Gasson going close.

Manager McKimm was delighted with claiming another important scalp following the defeat of Staines Town two weeks ago at Longmead.

“I was so pleased with the way our younger players performed this afternoon,” he said. “That said, the more experienced players also contributed their part by their advice and encouragement.”

He added: “We had no less than five young players out there who showed a maturity beyond their years.”

Tonbridge Angels remain in 11th place in the table, just two points below Met Police. They travel to promotion-chasing Dulwich Hamlet, in third, on Saturday (March 3, kick-off 3pm).

CRICKET: YOUNG people interested in cricket are invited to come along to a free information session at Hadlow College on March 14.

The session is open to children aged 14 to 16 years, their parents, cricket coaches and club representatives. It runs from 6.30-8pm and is free of charge.

It will introduce them to the benefits of the Young Leaders in Cricket course run by Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council.

The course itself, which is supported by the England and Wales Cricket Board, consists of three-hour workshops from April to July at local clubs, usually on mid-week evenings. The cost this year will be £50.

It offers a complete training programme including a Young Leaders Cricket Coaching Award; an introduction to umpiring and scoring; a workshop in groundsmanship; training in basic First Aid. It also provides an opportunity to learn about the organisation of sports activities and helps young people to improve their leadership skills.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr Maria Heslop, says: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to find out more about all aspects of cricket and a chance to gain a host of new skills relating to this most popular of games.

Email leisure.services@tmbc.gov.uk

Rusthall stunned as bottom club score two goals in time added on

By Richard Smith FOOTBALL: BOTTOM of the table Hollands & Blair stunned Rusthall with two goals in injury time to leave the home side worried about their own relegation problems.

Hollands & Blair arrived at the Jockey Farm Stadium boosted by a number of new signings and on a three-match unbeaten run that included a 3-0 win over Tunbridge Wells and a 1-1 draw with promotion chasing Crowborough Athletic.

The visitors took the lead in the 20th minute when the home defence failed to clear a corner and former Tunbridge Wells defender Scott Whibley forced the ball over the line from close range.

The unsetttled Rustics were guilty of giving the ball away in midfield and inviting Hollands & Blair to put them under pressure.

But on the stroke of half-time Rusthall drew level with another classy finish from Steph Harper, registering his 13th goal of the season.

He picked the ball up wide on the left and skipped past his marker before curling a sublime effort into the top right-hand corner from 20 yards.

This gave the Rustics a huge lift. They started the second half strongly and took the lead on 57 minutes.

This time Harper turned provider when he provided a pinpoint cross from the right and found the head of his strike partner Steve Smith, who met it superbly.

Shellshocked It looked as if the home side would take control of the game but they failed to find their normally reliable passing game.

Rusthall gave a debut to teenage winger James Jordan, whom they signed from Tonbridge Angels in midweek and he looked quite lively after coming on at the hour-mark.

The Rustics looked to be happy to try and hold on to what they had instead of looking to kill the

PHOTO: Brendan Kemp

Rusthall 2 Hollands & Blair 3

LATE, LATE SHOW Callum Christie is beaten as Ed Morrant secures victory in the 93rd minute game off with a third goal.

In time added on they were left shellshocked as a rampant Hollands & Blair equalised on 91 minutes through Rob Denness.

The they grabbed the winner on 93 minutes when the hosts missed chances to clear the ball away and allowed Ed Morant to hammer home from close range.

This win lifted Hollands & Blair off the bottom of

the table for the first time this season as they go above Rochester United on goal difference, They are now just nine points behind the Rustics with 12 games to play. Rusthall must recover from this huge setback as they look to avoid an immediate return to Division One. Rusthall’s next game is away at Glebe, who were promoted with them last season, on Saturday (March 3, kick-off 3pm).