LOCAL

www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk
The Tunbridge Wells
Borough Council magazine
Summer 2011
Inside:
Its the Mela Sunday 17 July
Volunteering in the Borough
The New Mayor
Civic Complex update
A dragons
lair in
Dunorlan!
2011 TONBRIDGE CASTLE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC
Box Offce 01444 443000
at the Castle
O
p
e
r
a
7 July 7pm
The Lion, The Witch
and The Wardrobe
8 July 7.30pm
The Magic Flute
9 July 7.30pm
Candlelit Opera Gala
with freworks
Tickets now available to book online www.operabrava.co.uk or from Tonbridge Castle
1834 FOM opera 114x192.indd 1 4/5/11 21:55:49
Weight for It
Successful nutrition
for all!
Granted
Council
money helps local groups
Understanding
Dementia
How to help
Cranbrook
A double lottery!
Civic Complex
The report
update
Meet the Mayor
Our Mayor
new and past...
Council Time
The new whos
who
Rusthall for
One the new
Parish
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Its the Summer issue and
its busy!
Summer holidays are practically
upon us, how are you going to keep
yourselves busy? There are shows to
see, volunteering opportunities and
plenty of activity to keep the children
happy; so read on!
We also have an update on the recent Civic
Complex Consultation, an opportunity to meet
the newest Councillors and see how Rusthall
Parish has been shaping up since our last issue.
A reminder again for you to visit our website
to fnd out more or follow up on many of these
stories, and see our most up to date news and
press releases at: www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Until next time!
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6 &7
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3
Tunbridge Wells Borough
Council also delivers a childrens
weight management programme
called MEND.
MEND stands for Mind, Exercise,
Nutrition, Do it! It is a free fun
course for families with children
aged 7 to 13 whose weight is
above the healthy range for their
age and height. It runs twice a
week after school over 10 weeks
and aims to help families learn
how to make healthier choices
and get active.
The MEND programme is the
UKs largest healthy lifestyle
programme for overweight
children and their parents,
running in over 250 locations
nationally. The programme is a
nationally recognised initiative,
developed by Great Ormond
Street Hospital and the Institute
of Child Health, and is a proven
way to get families ftter, healthier
and happier. The next MEND
programmes will be running in
Southborough and Cranbrook in
autumn.
Weight
For It!
Weight for It!
is a free weight loss
programme for adults with
a body mass index (BMI)
equal to or greater than
28. Each session covers a
different topic and includes a
presentation to the group with
handouts, leaflets, recipes,
and the chance to discuss any
specific issues.
Weight for It! isnt a diet but it aims
to encourage and educate people to
make healthy lifestyle changes such
as improved nutrition and increased
physical activity. It enables people
to understand some of the reasons
behind why particular foods and
behaviours have different affects
on our health and
bodies. Participants
are monitored regularly
to track their progress.
The next Weight for
It! programmes will be
starting in July (venues
tba).
Hazel saw the Weight
For It! programme
advertised at her local
newsagent shop near TN2.
Hazels objective was to lose weight
and improve her health to be able to
see her three girls grow up and get
married and have kids of their own.
Weight for It! programmes have also
been run at the Town Hall, at lunch
times.
While Hazels initial objectives have
been met, in her view its ongoing and
has been a complete lifestyle change,
not a phase. Its not a fad and I dont
lose any enthusiasm because
I can still have treats!
Sam and Sarah (who run the
programme) are lovely. They
give advice, they dont sugar
coat it, theyre always polite
and if you need any support
theyre at the end of the
phone. They dont just help you lose
weight; they help you change your view
of food, your health and of yourself.
Ann heard about the Weight for It!
programme when she visited Fusion
Sports Centre at St Johns. Having
suffered an accident which led to an
ankle operation, Ann had been unable
to exercise; and inevitably she gained
weight. Her target was to lose 1 stone
which she managed to do within the 10
week programme.
I dont call it a diet, I call it a health
change! Im so pleased with the results
that I joined the programme a second
time. I think anybody thinking of signing
up should defnitely do it. Ive met loads
of different people and we
can bounce ideas of each
other and fnd new things to
try. Its been so educational;
I was completely unaware
that I was eating more than
I should and now Ive learnt
about portion control.
Both Ann and Hazel along
with several others who
started the programme at
Cafe Bliss, Southborough
continue to meet regularly, sharing
recipes and tips on exercise and
portion control, they fnd it keeps them
all motivated. Sam and Sarah also
pop by regularly to see how theyre all
doing.
Anybody thinking about signing up for
the programme should defnitely do it!
Elaine saw the programme advertised
on the Wellbeing machine at work.
This is just the beginning for me. I
dont want to say Im on a diet, I want
a life change. Elaine gave up smoking
and gained weight. I had the choice
to lose it in a hurry and make myself ill
or to live sensibly. Having the sessions
during working hours has been a real
bonus.
Both the Weight for It! and MEND
programmes are coordinated by
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, in
partnership with NHS West Kent.
For more information and to book
onto a programme please contact
the Communities and Health Team
on 01892 554411, e-mail health@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk or visit our
webpage www.tunbridgewells.gov.
uk/choosinghealth.
4
Following in
Jack Frosts
footsteps
Lamberhurst Parish Council
with help from the Friends
of Lamberhurst Common
and the Kent High Weald
Partnership have been
awarded a Heritage Lottery
Grant.
Jason Adams, manager of the Kent
High Weald Partnership said,
Lamberhursts common land is rich in
history and wildlife, the lottery funding
will help the community on a journey
of discovery.
The grant will allow
great opportunities
for the community to
participate in taking
care of wildlife, for
schools and special
interest groups to
learn about the
countryside, and
for visitors to
gain a greater
understanding
of this valuable
resource.
The project was named
after Jack Frost, who lived and
worked as a cooper in a hut in
Lamberhurst Gravel Pit. Part of the
project is to record oral histories
and recollections of Lamberhurst
Common. Other exciting elements to
the project include, an after school
club, workshops and assemblies for
Lamberhurst Primary School; and
construction of a boardwalk and
dipping
platform
at the gravel pit.
Training volunteers in practical
conservation and survey techniques,
will feature as well as lots of family
events and planned activities.
Go to www.khwp.org.uk for further
information.
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it
seven wonders
of the weald
www.sevenwonders.org.uk
Make the most of
the summer and enjoy
FREE entry to some great
attractions with a Seven
Wonders of the Weald
Pass for just 39.95 and
save 140 on admissions.
To obtain your Pass visit
www.sevenwonders.org.uk
or call in at the Tourist
Information Centre in the
Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells -
Tel: 01892 515675.
Summer is here and
its time to have fun!
Family Fun Days are back and coming to a
place near you.
Need ideas for activities to keep the children busy this
summer? Come along to one of our Family Fun Days!
Lots of sports and arts activities to keep them entertained.
Keep an eye out for the summer activities brochure 2011
for more information, or on our website
www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk.
Activities are run in
partnership with Tunbridge
Wells Borough Council,
Voluntary Action Within
Kent and KCC Extended
Services.
5
awareness and improving the
fantastic High Weald wildlife and
landscape. It is no surprise that this
breeds high levels of satisfaction
and support from its partners. Its
model big society approach equips
it very well for the challenges ahead.
KHWP Chair, Linda Davies, formerly
Kent County Council Director of
Environment, Highways & Waste
KHWP has built itself upon a
reputation for delivering sustainable
solutions to local conservation issues
whilst providing excellent value for
money.
The last 20 years have confrmed the
strength of this support
and we look forward
to this continuing and
developing in the coming
years.
A huge THANK YOU
to all who have
contributed towards
20 years of KHWP
success, it wouldnt
have been possible
without you.
A great deal has been achieved by a
dedicated team that is committed to
providing a high quality, effective
service.
Working with multiple
partners, KHWP
is responsible for
landscape, recreation,
access and habitat
management; organising a
wide range of public events
and activities; managing
Local Nature Reserves;
advising on greenspaces
and working closely with
educational groups of all ages
and abilities in the Borough of
Tunbridge Wells.
This is a rightly proud
and impressively resourceful and
innovative partnership which has gone
from strength to strength over two
decades.
It continues
to deliver a
huge range
of high quality
projects,
growing local
involvement,
access and
KHWP
20 years
The Kent High Weald
Partnership (KHWP) was
started in 1991 making it
20 years old this year, our
mission to link community
and countryside.
This milestone is
an opportunity
to celebrate the
successes and
highlight the
opportunities
ahead.
Council grants support local charities
We will be holding a special
20th anniversary celebration
10am 2pm Saturday
27 August in the Crane
Valley, Cranbrook.
We hope you will be able
to join us at this free event,
there will be lots of family
activities and a free BBQ to
enjoy!
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has funded
KHWP since its inception. Core funding is now
provided by TWBC and Kent County Council
and is covered by a fve year Service Level
Agreement. For the period January 2009 to April
2014 this funding is 51,250pa. In 2009/10 the
Kent High Weald Partnership held a record
115 events across the borough and enticed
volunteers to complete 3,057 days work.
There were 75 educational visits/events
with schools and through the Kent Free
Tree Scheme 5,800 new native trees were
planted.
6
Shopmobility
Tunbridge Wells Shopmobility
is a small, locally based
charity located in the Royal
Victoria Place. It began in
1995; and became a registered
charity a few years later.
Shopmobility is blanket term for
various schemes nationally. Members
join the federation in order to be eligible
to use the title Shopmobility; all of
which are independently operated, but
not all of which are charities.
The aim is simple: to assist those with
mobility problems to become more
independent while out shopping in the
town. Motorised scooters and manual
wheelchairs are provided for hire at a
small cost which to helps towards the
overheads of premises and staff.
There are very dedicated staff
members and Shopmobility is open
9am5pm Monday to Saturday. New
visitors are asked to complete a short
questionnaire for legal reasons, will be
shown how to use the machines and
then are free to go! The scooters and
wheelchairs can be used in the Royal
Victoria Place and the town centre
area.
A number of members had been
housebound for months or years
until they discovered Shopmobility.
Now, being able to access things
like the bank and council offces
gives customers the privacy and
independence to manage their own
lives. Its this that makes the role of
Shopmobility so important in the town.
Council grants support local charities
Tunbridge Wells Shopmobility is a
registered charity run by trustees, all of
whom are volunteers. The trustees also
happily assist in the day to day running
of Shopmobility if necessary.
Shopmobility is always searching
for ways to raise money and have
been successful in obtaining cash
for wheelchairs from charitable
organisations. While some money
comes in from the fees charged, these
are kept to a minimum for the service
to be accessible to everyone.
Caroline Riddle, Shopmobility
Chairperson says:
We currently have 1500 customers;
some who use Shopmobility 23
times a week, others less regularly
and visitors to the town all equally
welcome. Tunbridge Wells Borough
Council has always been a great
supporter of Shopmobility realising the
importance of the organisation to those
with mobility problems and provides
our main source of income without
which the scheme would not be.
We are very thankful to the Council
particularly in these diffcult economic
times. The scheme is so important as a
service in the town and the support of
the Council is totally invaluable to this.
The cash provided allows us to open
9am5pm six days a week which
is far more than most Shopmobility
schemes in shopping centres. We are
very proud of our ability to open these
hours.
Shopmobility was set up with the support of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
in 1995 and have been providing grants annually for the past 16 years. For
2011/12, 17,000 has been granted. Its a contribution towards core costs,
including part-time staff salaries and the maintenance and repair of equipment.
This funding enables Shopmobility to provide a service 6 days per week.
If you would like more details of
how to use Shopmobility facilities
or to fnd out about volunteering
for Shopmobility, please call
01892 544355 or pop in 9am
5pm Monday to Saturday (closed
for lunch 11.30pm).
7
Digging Deep!
Who was here in the Stone Age? What was life
like in the Iron Age?
The story of the Tunbridge Wells area stretches much
further back than the earliest written records but
sometimes it is hard to connect the archaeological remains
with the people who left them.
This summer you can see the prehistory of our local
area brought to life during a special event organised
by Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery to celebrate
National Archaeology week. Come along to Dunorlan
Park on Saturday 16 July to fnd out more about local
archaeological fnds and what they tell us about our past.
Members of the East Sussex Museums and Archaeology
Partnership will be on hand to demonstrate different skills
and crafts from the past; including a demonstration of
rowing a reconstruction coracle (a small, lightweight boat)
across the lake.
There will be an opportunity to see how fint arrows were
made and to try using fint tools, together with a chance to
have a go at different prehistoric weaving techniques and
to try on some replica clothing.
A pottery workshop will give visitors a chance to make
something to take home; for those hoping for a more in-
depth experience of prehistoric life, there is an opportunity
to make and taste some early foods.
Alongside these reconstructions, staff will be available to
explain how archaeologists reconstruct the past and to
share some of the archaeological features and fnds from
the local area. Visitors are also invited to bring their own
fnds for identifcation on the day.
This special Digging Deep event is on Saturday 16 July,
11am4pm at Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells. The
event will be on the Halls Hole Road side of the lake.
The event is free and open to all ages but children must
be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery is home to some
fascinating fnds, particularly from Mesolithic and Iron
Age sites in the local area. These are on permanent
display. For more information visit
www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org
or telephone 01892 554171.
8
How effective are the support
services for patients and their
carers in the borough?
In January this year, the Environment,
Housing and Health Overview and
Scrutiny Select Committee began
a review of support services for
dementia patients and their carers.
The review is focusing on their
experiences and what can be done to
improve their quality of life. It will also
examine what plans and strategies
are in place to deal with the increase
in demand for support services, given
the likelihood that many more people
will suffer from dementia in the next
few decades.
The extent of the problem
One in 14 people over 65 years of
age, and one in six over 80, has a
form of dementia. Although this is
primarily a condition associated with
older people, there are signifcant
numbers who develop dementia
earlier in life.
In addition to the distress and
suffering this means for patients and
their carers, often family members
the cost of dementia to the National
Health Service and social care is in
the region of 8.2bn annually.
There are currently just over 1.25%
of the Tunbridge Wells borough
population who are diagnosed
with dementia. By 2023, this is
reliably expected to increase by
approximately 42%
How does the review work?
Councillors involved in the review
spent a morning with Tina Stirling,
Locality Manager at the Alzheimers
Society (Kent & Medway). After talking
to Tina about the practicalities of
running day care services for patients,
the group spent some time discussing
the experience of living with dementia
with some of those who attend the
day care centre. It became very clear
to the Councillors just how much each
patient benefted from what the day
care facility provides.
The councillors have also discussed
the situation in the borough with a
local consultant psychologist. He was
able to demonstrate that the memory
clinic operating in Tunbridge Wells,
with its pre-diagnostic counselling and
assessment work, forms the basis of a
very effective clinical support service
for people suffering from dementia.
The Committee has also learnt of
the Dementia Crisis Service, a joint
Kent County Council/NHS West
Kent initiative, under which a local
charity, Crossroads Care West Kent,
provides care for dementia patients
in their own homes, assisting them
in their transition into long term care.
For dementia sufferers in hospital,
a discharge support service is
provided, offering care in the patients
own home for up to six weeks.
The future of services
Current professional thinking
recognises the need to try to avoid the
crisis situation that many dementia
sufferers in the advanced stages of
the disease have faced in the past.
Future support services will aim to
ensure that early diagnosis leads
patients and their carers towards a
care programme that has dignity and
quality of life at its heart.

Alzheimers Awareness Week
takes place from 3 9 July
2011. You can find out about
local events by contacting
the societys Kent Locality
Office at Tonbridge on 01732
370330.
Do you need some help and
advice?
If you are worried that you or a
family member might be suffering
from symptoms of dementia, you
should discuss this with your doctor.
There is also a very helpful and
informative web-based service, which
anyone can access direct at www.
dementiawebkentandmedway.org.uk/
A Kent & Medway Dementia Helpline
is available 24 hours a day on 0845
604 4391; providing information and
emotional support for those with
dementia and their carers.
The review and your views
The scrutiny review will continue until
the end of June 2011; If you have any
views on this important topic, please
contact Mike McGeary, Overview and
Scrutiny Offcer, on 01892 554105
or by e-mail at mike.mcgeary@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk
We look forward to sharing the
outcome of the review in our next
Local magazine, due to be distributed
in September 2011.
Understanding Dementia
9
Dip and discover
something new!
The Friends of Barnetts Wood will be inviting
people to dip into their Local Nature Reserve
in 2011, and discover something new!
Thanks to an Awards for All grant from the Big Lottery, a
packed programme of wild activities and exciting events
will take place throughout the year. This will include a
summer that is positively packed with minibeasting, bat
detecting, pond dipping and more!
Located on the edge of High Brooms, Barnetts Wood acts
as a gateway to the wider countryside beyond. We will
be making good use of the reserves rural-fringe location
with a series of low-impact, healthy guided walks. See our
current work programme for dates and details.
As well as walks and activities for young people, the grant
will fund a series of wildlife surveys for the important
habitats of Barnetts Wood. Survey work is essential
in making sure the practical activities carried out by
volunteers each year help to keep this wildlife-rich reserve
in good condition. There are lots of ways to get involved as
a volunteer, from practical work, to wildlife monitoring, to
coming along to one of the Friends regular meetings. More
information on volunteering can be found at www.khwp.
org.uk
Changing banks,
saving money
In April this year, the banking contract for the
Council came up for renewal. This is as vital
a service as refuse collections and that means
we have to get right!
After a tendering process to help ensure fairness and the
best possible value we decided to switch to Lloyds Bank.
They are able to offer the best mix of the services we need
over the next fve years and at the same time they will
save us a whopping 100,000 during this period.
As anyone who has changed bank account will know,
certain things are more involved than others. Direct Debit
payments were the most straightforward to switch. But we
did have to personally contact over two thousand people
who pay us by standing order. We did this by SMS and
phone; at the same time encouraging them to switch
to Direct Debit. As a result, many people changed from
standing order payments to Direct Debits, which are the
most effcient method for receiving payments.
We successfully changed banks on the 1 April in order to
start saving money as soon as possible. As a Council, we
can now spend more money on delivering services for our
residents!
10
The Victorian View
Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallerys
summer holiday exhibition (9 July to
3 September) recreates the atmosphere of a
Victorian picture gallery.
For the frst time, all of the museums Victorian oil paintings
will be on show, hung in the way their original audience
would have seen them.
The centrepiece will be Frederick Goodalls enormous
Road to Mandalay, which has not been publicly displayed
since it was frst shown in the 1890s.
Goodalls work is based on a popular poem of the day
by Rudyard Kipling which evoked the culture shock
experienced by a Victorian soldier transplanted into a
wholly alien environment.
The exhibition includes the important group of paintings
collected by Victorian businessman and Camden Park
resident Alfred Ashton, offering a range of domestic
scenes, dramatic episodes, landscapes and portraits. Oil
paintings by local artist Charles Tattershall Dodd are also
featured, depicting the Kent and Sussex countryside.
As well as exploring how Victorian art was displayed and
viewed, the show looks at the role of paintings like these
in popular culture. In a world without our wide range of
visual media, contemporary art exhibitions aroused a lot
more excitement across a wide range of society. Pictures
like Abraham Solomons Waiting for the Verdict captured
the imagination of the general public and were widely
disseminated in cheap reproductions.
Complete with costumes of the period, Victorian decor
and a dressing up area for visitors, this exhibition provides
an opportunity to step back in time and experience the
opulence of a Victorian art gallery.
Guest pass expires on 20th August 2011. Use of the pass is subject to availability.
Valid for use at Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre, The Weald Sports Centre and
Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre.
Full terms and conditions available at www.fusion-lifestyle.com.
**By entering your details, you are agreeing that we may update you by email,
mobile or post with exclusive offers and updates. We process your data in
accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. We will not share your data with
anyone else and you can opt out at any time. See our full terms and conditions and
privacy policy online at www.fusion-lifestyle.com.
For 1 person
FREE 1 day pass
**
Name:
Mobile: Postcode:
Email:
Code: TWC2
Enjoy a FREE
*
trial
at your local Tunbridge Wells sport and leisure centres
Your local Tunbridge Wells sport and leisure centres offer great surroundings,
excellent equipment and an enjoyable atmosphere. With our best ever value
Choice membership you can enjoy use of all three of our leisure centres
locally including gym, pools, classes, racquets and much more.
To trial our fantastic facilities, simply cut out the attached pass and present
the fully completed form to reception at the centre of your choice. With your
pass you can enjoy a workout, swim or class in any one of our sport and
leisure centres across Tunbridge Wells.
*Terms and conditions apply per centre. See www.fusion-lifestyle.com for details.
Putlands Sports and Leisure Centre Tel: 01892 838 290
Mascalls Court Road, Paddock Wood TN12 6NZ
The Weald Sports Centre Tel: 01580 710 720
Angley Road, Cranbrook TN17 2PN
Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre Tel: 01892 540 744
St Johns Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9TX
www.tunbridgewells-leisure.com
11
Double lottery
success for
Cranbrook
Cranbrook in Bloom has joined
forces with the Kent High Weald
Partnership to launch an exciting
new project called A Walk Through
Time.
The focus of the project is to work with the
local community on producing a series of free
circular guided walks in and around Cranbrook.
The walks will follow existing public footpaths,
taking in points of interest within the beautiful
High Weald landscape. Local volunteers
will be instrumental with helping deliver this
Pathways to nature
at Crane Valley
Crane Valley Local Nature Reserve in
Cranbrook is looked after by volunteers, its good
management is therefore dependent on the
participation of the local community.
Funding has been secured by Cranbrook Parish
Council and the Kent High Weald Partnership
to carry out a range of site improvements. The
construction of a surfaced path to link to existing
paths and boardwalks will open up access to
all. Surveys of the nature reserve, will help
with the production of a new management plan
for the site. The installation of a new panel
will help inform about the reserves wildlife
and management. A special day of practical
volunteering for young people, and a have a
go launch event to encourage visitors into the
newly accessible recreation ground and nature
reserve.
community based project. Historians,
ramblers, actors, photographers and
wildlife enthusiasts are all needed to
help with the research, promotion and
launch events.
Funding for both projects has been supported by the Big Lottery Awards for All scheme.
If you would like to help and can volunteer some time or would like more information on the projects, please contact the
Kent High Weald Partnership 01580 212972 or e-mail info@khwp.org.uk
12
Distraction
Burglaries and
Bogus Callers
In March the Community Safety Unit (CSU)
organised four performances Trickster the
Bogus Caller Musical.
The purpose of the show is to warn elderly and vulnerable
residents of some of the methods used by bogus callers,
and show them how they can prevent themselves from
becoming a victim of distraction burglary.
Following the success of the event the CSU would like to
take the opportunity to give residents a simple checklist
when answering the door to unexpected visitors.
Step 1: Lock up!
When there is an unexpected knock at your door lock your
doors and windows as some bogus callers are known to
work in pairs and whilst one keeps you talking at your front
door ther other could be sneaking into your house via the
back door or window.
Step 2: Spy hole and chain
Make sure you use the safety devices ftted to your door; if
you have a spy hole take a look inside to see who it is and
if they are a stranger put the chain across the door before
opening.
Step 3: Be cautious
Your energy and water supplier will always contact you
frst to arrange to come to your property before they visit in
person.
If you ever have someone on your doorstep claiming to
be from either the water board the gas board or the
electricity board DO NOT LET THEM IN as these boards
no longer exist.
If there is a genuine gas or water emergency, police or
frefghters are likely to be present.
Step 4: ID check
Always ask to see the callers ID and check it thoroughly
even if they have a pre-arranged appointment. Genuine
callers will always carry ID from the organisation they
represent. If you need to get glasses to read it, SHUT your
front door, then go and get your glasses. NEVER leave
your front door unattended.
Step 5: Report
If you think you have had a bogus caller at your
door please call the police on 999 or if its not an
emergency call Kent Police on 01622 690690 or Kent
Trading Standards on 08454 040506
If you would like sign up for the Community
Safety Units quarterly e-newsletter e-mail
communitysafety@tunbridgewells.gov.uk to
subscribe.
Five people drawn at random will receive a
distraction burglary kit, containing a window
alarm, Safe Can, segment timer, door chain,
mirror and credit card magnifer!
13
Tea Dances
The Tea Dance, with music provided by Chris
Mannion, is on the 4th Thursday of every
month, 2.305pm at The Camden Centre.
2.50 per person including refreshments. No need to book
In addition there is Tea Dance Tuition for the Over Fifties,
with a tutor from the Medway School of Dance, on the third
Thursday of every month 13pm at TN2 Community Centre,
The Royal British
Legion at 90
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the
founding of the Royal British Legion in 1921.
It also marks the 90th anniversary of the local
branch, started in that year by servicemen
returning from the Great War.
The frst meeting place was in the Camden Road. You can
still see where, since the faint words British Legion are
still to be seen over the take away shop just opposite Bobs
DIY. The frst chairman held the VC!
Today, as always, the Legions aim is to help ex-
servicemen in need. To do this, they raise funds through
the Annual Poppy Appeal, run a local welfare committee,
and visit those who are sick.
Currently, the local branch is 125 members strong, though
increasing age and falling numbers, mean that we are
looking at a much reduced workforce for doing the work we
think so important.
Recruitment is diffcult, what with a much smaller
armed forces base from which we traditionally drew our
membership, and the diffculty of getting through to a
younger age group, who have not served in the armed
forces. We are most grateful to those members of the
public who join us to help raise funds at Poppy Appeal
time.
The branch meets monthly on the third Thursday of each
month, at Christ Church in the High Street, where we have
a talk, usually on a military matter, or on a local topic. We
also organise visits to something of military interest, and
get tickets for Beating the Retreat and the annual Festival
of Remembrance.
A parade on 31 July, starting at the War Memorial at
1400hrs and fnishing with a service at Christ Church will
mark the anniversary. (Membership is open to all)
David Wakefeld
Branch Chairman
Lakeside, Tunbridge Wells. For Directions please call 01892
538230. Price is 1.50 including refreshments.
For those who attend the tuition sessions, there will be
a free trip to the Winter Gardens in Eastbourne for the
Christmas Tea Dance.
Camden Centre dates:
28 July 25 August 22 September
27 October 24 November
TN2 dates:
21 July 18 August 15 September
20 October 17 November
14
Consultation on the future
of the CiviC Complex
As reported in the winter edition of
Local, M&N Communications carried
out a public consultation on the
future of the Civic Complex in Royal
Tunbridge Wells over the period
December 2010 to February 2011.
M&Ns report on the consultation
was published on 25 May 2011.
Nearly 7,000 people were involved
in the consultation, and feedback
was gained from a variety of
different sources, including over
6,000 completed questionnaires, six
workshops, four drop-in sessions,
13 stakeholder meetings, one focus
group, two youth vox-pop sessions,
one schools workshop with three
schools, the website, Twitter,
Facebook and letters, emails and
telephone calls. We have set out here
the feedback analysis summary &
concluding remarks sections from the
Executive Summary, but we strongly
recommend you view it in full at
www.tunbridgewellsregenerationco.
org where you will also fnd all the
background information and feedback
that we received. Reference copies
are also available at the Gateway,
Weald Information Centre in
Cranbrook, and in libraries.
Tunbridge Wells Regeneration
Company and M&N Communications
want to thank everyone who got
involved in the consultation process,
and who have made it such a
success.
15
Culture
Overall the cultural offer in the town centre, and in
particular on the civic complex, is one which people
appreciate and are proud of; there is a general consensus
that it is a good thing to have in the town centre.
However, there is also a general view that the offer
as a whole, and the constituent parts, are in need of
improvement and investment. Apart from identifying a
need to provide more and accessible space for the library,
museum and art gallery, the consensus does not stretch
to how or what should be done to address this. There was
also a strong feeling that the town centre needed a new
cinema.
CiviC
Of the three topics that are covered under civic uses,
public open space was the one where there was a strong
agreement that they are an important part of the town
centre. There was also a repeated suggestion that a new
town square or similar might add to the quality of the town
centre.
There were mixed views on where the council chamber
and committee rooms should be located and there was
only a limited mention of the war memorial; however with
the latter this does not imply that the subject matter was
not important to respondents, just that it was only raised by
certain groups.
Questionnaire responses
Age structure Number
% of total
respondents
Profle of
borough
population
(number)
Profle of
borough
population (%)
% of
comparable
population
(under 16s
removed)
0 15*
- - 22,500 21% -
16 24
263 4% 9,400 9% 11%
25 39
751 12% 19,600 18% 23%
40 59
2,091 34% 30,800 29% 36%
60 74
1,930 32% 16,200 15% 19%
75+
700 11% 9,100 8% 11%
Unanswered
402 7%
Total
6,137 100% 107,600 100%
100%
*Under 15s were not included in the consultation.
16
puBliC serviCes
There is very strong support for providing public services
where most people can access them, which most people
consider to be the town centre. There is little direction
however that this provision has to be in any particular
building.
leisure
The views on the leisure offer in the town centre were
varied and it was diffcult to establish an agreed position.
The only main area of agreement appeared to that most
respondents and groups seemed to the think there was a
need for more leisure focused facilities for young people
and families.
There were more respondents in favour of a multitude of
new leisure uses in the town centre (restaurants, cafes,
pubs or gyms) than those that stated no more leisure
uses were needed. However, there was no consensus on
exactly what the new facilities should be (and for a number
of uses that respondents stated a desire for more of, there
was often a counter view that there were too many).
retail
There was recognition that the towns shops were suffering
and that there were a number of vacant and closed units.
An overwhelming number of respondents used Royal
Victoria Place the most, however, most people seemed to
value independent shops most and there was a consistent
refrain that people did not want RTW to become a clone
town; respondents felt that RTW had a unique character
that needed to be retained.
When discussing the potential for new retail, the views
were mixed. Some people thought that the offer was good
and no new retail was needed; others thought that new
retail was not just needed but could be a real positive for
the town centre, as long as it did not affect the balance
of the town centre. A signifcant number of questionnaire
responses stated that both more independent retailers and
a new department store would encourage them to shop in
the town centre more than they do now.
transport
The subject of transport and access was recurring
throughout the consultation and people felt that any
redevelopment of the civic complex or indeed any other
site in the town centre must take the transport, parking and
traffc issue into account to ensure the situation was not
exacerbated.
arChiteCture
In terms of the design approach to take if redevelopment
was pursued, everyone agreed that the architecture had
to be of the highest quality; to do justice to the town and
its historic nature and to do justice to the prominence and
importance of the civic complex in the town.
The Pantiles and Calverley Park Crescent were the
two areas most people wanted to be referenced in any
new design, with the Town Hall generating support and
indifference in equal measure.
A signifcant number of people stated that any new design
should be about fresh ideas, and this was supported by
others across the consultation who wanted to avoid a
pastiche approach.
Also that it should be sensitive to its context and the
surrounding town centre.
Based on this, M&N considers the level of response from
across all age groups and locations, to be a considerable
achievement on a consultation primarily about ideas.
However, it must be noted that in certain age groups,
the disparity between the demographic fgures and
questionnaire responses was signifcant. In particular, the
1624 year olds were under-represented by over 50% and
the 6075 years old were over-represented by a third.
ConCluding remarks
The next stage is for TWRC and the Council to consider
the feedback and decide on what to do next. It is certainly
clear that the many thousands of people who got involved
in the consultation do not agree on many subjects; apart
from perhaps that Royal Tunbridge Wells is a place to be
proud of and a place worth protecting.
In the range of views expressed many respondents
expressed a desire for improved facilities (but without
signifcant change); many wanted the town to perform
better economically (but not at the expense of the towns
character). Overall many wanted the town to stay the same
but more people wanted to see improvement (even if they
could not agree on what the improvements should be).
What is clear is that more people wanted to see change
and improvement in the civic complex and town centre as
a whole, than did not want anything at all to change.
17
Thousands attended last years Mela
and we are all set to return to Calverley
Grounds this year, for what promises to be
a wonderful celebration of dance, music
and singing from cultures around the
world and the UK.
There is a full programme of stage entertainment
planned from 1.307.15pm and it will be fun for the
whole family with stalls and other activities too best
of all, its free to attend!
Highlights this year will see big names Bloco Fogo,
an Afro-bloco samba band, one of the largest and
most versatile drumming groups in the UK. Elite
Street Dance, a local group of lively street dancers
will present their most energetic, freestyle techniques
and popular, The Take That Experience will be
performing some classics in the fnale.
For a complete programme and further details
visit www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/mela or follow
@TWBC_Comms on Twitter for regular updates.
See you there!
Tunbridge Wells Mela
Sunday 17 July 2011
18
Core Strategy
Consultation
On 17 June 2010, Tunbridge Wells Borough
Council (TWBC) adopted a planning policy
document called the Core Strategy.
This is a plan that sets out the Councils long-term
aims for new development in the borough, as well as
the fundamental principles with which proposals for
development must comply. The Core Strategy sets out how
much development will happen and broadly where it will go,
although it does not identify specifc development sites.
TWBC is now reviewing certain aspects of the Core
Strategy, primarily, but not exclusively, related to the
boroughs housing targets. A consultation on this review of
the Core Strategy took place between 16 May and
26 June 2011. During the frst weeks of the consultation
period planning offcers hosted a number of presentations










and exhibitions at
Royal Tunbridge Wells, Cranbrook, Hawkhurst and
Paddock Wood to explain to the general public the issues
being consulted upon.
These events were all well attended and as a result we
will receive a large number of responses to the questions
that were asked in the consultation questionnaire. All
comments received will be taken into account to inform a
fnal proposed version of the Core Strategy Review that will
be published later on during the year.
Rusthall
For One!
Following widespread
consultation fnal approval
was given at the full Council
meeting on 23 February
2011 for Rusthall to have its
own Parish Council.
As a reminder the fnal
proposals were:

That a parish council is
established in Rusthall.

The area of the
proposed parish council
be as per the boundaries
which accords with the
existing boundaries of
the borough ward of
Rusthall.

The parish be named
Rusthall parish.

The parish council
should use the style
of parish council
as opposed to the
alternative styles of
village, neighbourhood
or community council.

Subject to the
establishment of a parish
council taking effect
from 1 April 2011 and
the frst elections being
held on 5 May 2011,
the frst term of offce of
elected councillors be
for the standard term of
four years with the next
elections being held in
2015 and every fourth
year thereafter e 2019,
2023...

The number of
councillors to be elected
to the parish council
be set at nine, which
would provide a ratio
of approximately 400
electors to each parish
councillor.

The parish council
should not be split into
separate wards.
In accordance with these
proposals an election was
held on 5 May 2011 to elect
nine parish councillors from
the fourteen candidates that
stood.
At the frst meeting of the
Parish on 18 May 2011,
Jennifer Blackburn was
appointed Chairman and
Christopher Elwood Vice
Chairman for the Parish.
The other councillors are
Jonathan Clark, Clare
Codd, Barry Edwards, Jane
Geer, Malcolm Lawrence,
Maria Simmons and Kelly
Watson.
19
Mayor
The Mayoral role always
carries a packed agenda of
fundraising and representing
the borough, but why is there
a Mayor?
The derivation of the title mayor,
from the Latin maior and the French
maire, may point to its origins, and
the position of the mayor as the frst
citizen suggests links with the Anglo-
Saxon ealdorman (later Alderman)
the local elders from amongst whom
one would emerge as the greatest.
The Kings justice had been enforced
by the reeve, and over him the Shire
Reeve (Sheriff). But during the Middle
Ages many increasingly important
towns were granted charters permitting
so many privileges and exemptions
that gradually the position of the reeve
was eroded; Chaucers reeve is shown
scant respect. Many of the reeves
functions passed to the mayor.
On 25 May, the new Mayor for
Tunbridge Wells was inaugurated at
the Town Hall.
The Mayor, Cllr Elizabeth Thomas,
immediately picked up the mantel
(or should we say robes) and her
frst offcial appointments were to
the Lord Lieutenant of Kents Civic
Reception on the Wednesday, the
400th Anniversary of the building of
Somerhill school on Thursday and
opening of the Community Curators
Exhibition at Tunbridge Wells Museum
& Art Gallery on the Friday, followed
by the ever popular and very busy
Tunbridge Wells Cricket Week.

A Mayoral legacy
It is customary for the departing Mayor to donate something to the Town
Hall and Borough Council, which could be anything from a silver object to
a picture. Cllr David Jukes, this years outgoing Mayor, has decided to do
something different which he hopes will have a useful and longer lasting
effect on the people of Tunbridge Wells.
With the support of K College, Cllr Jukes has set up a charity for Craft
Apprentices in the construction industry in and around Tunbridge Wells.
The charity will be assisting the youth of today and future generations
to undertake the traditional work of bricklaying, plastering, plumbing,
carpentry and electrical installation work.
The charity will be able to provide assistance with the purchase of tools,
provision of bursaries to assist with NVQ courses, such as Gas Safe
and NICEIC, and other specialist courses that would provide additional
training to apprentices to improve their knowledge and employment
prospects.
Cllr Jukes has himself made a considerable contribution to kick start
the charity and trustees have already been appointed. Senior Trustee,
James Partridge, Managing Partner of Thompson Snell & Passmore has
made a signifcant donation and also pledged free of charge legal advice
in setting up the charity and Gullum Shaikh, Senior Partner in Shaikh
& Co will provide fnancial advice. Additionally, HSBC have offered free
banking.
For any further information on the charity, its bursaries or to be able to
make a donation, please contact Cllr David Jukes at:
david.jukes@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
20
The Mayors Charities
The Mayor choses a charity or charities to support for the
year and this years charity is Fegans.
Local contact details: 01892 538288
info@fegans.org.uk
Web site: www.fegans.org.uk
If you wish to approach the Mayors Offce with the
possibility of a future Mayor adopting your charity for the
year then please write to The Mayors Offce, Tunbridge
Wells Borough Council, Town Hall, Civic Way, Royal
Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RS.
Fegans provide Counselling+ services as part of its work to
support children and families. We provide counselling and
emotional support for children, teenagers and parents.
Where Fegans work
In our centres
We offer counselling for adults, children and teenagers at
our centres, as well as working with couples and families.
In schools
Much of Fegans Counselling+ work with children and young
people takes place in their schools. This makes it easy
for pupils at a school to meet with one of our staff for an
appointment.
The counsellors
Fegans staff are specially trained to deliver counselling or
emotional support. The counsellors are qualifed to Diploma
level and are accredited or working towards accreditation;
trainee counsellors are those in the process of studying for
their Diploma. All counsellors are members of the British
Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or
the Association of Christian Counsellors (ACC) and work
according to the ethical framework of those professional
bodies. All our counsellors receive regular supervision
To arrange for counselling for yourself or a family member,
you are welcome to contact us directly and arrange
appointments in one of our centres, please telephone on
01892 538288. One of our friendly members of staff will
take a few details from you and can tell you more about the
services we offer.
Referrals
At Fegans we welcome referrals for counselling from a
variety of sources such as Social Services, Health Visitors,
GPs, churches and schools. To make a referral, contact us
at head offce or your nearest centre.
Cost
There is a cost in providing these services. However, it is
Fegans policy to provide counselling for those in need,
and not to turn anyone away. Wherever possible costs
are subsidised the cost for those who cannot pay the full
amount, and if funding is not available in full from other
sources. In schools, our services are free for pupils and
the cost is born by our own resources, by the school, or
other funding.
Having the support of the Mayor Cllr Elizabeth Thomas
with fundraising during her mayoral year will help
enormously with these subsidies and beneft enormously
the children we dearly want to help.
For more information, please contact: Fegans
www.fegans.org.uk
Head Offce: 160 St James Road, Royal Tunbridge
Wells, Kent TN1 2HE
Tel: 01892 538288 e-mail: info@fegans.org.uk


21
Localism
in action!
If you go down to the woods
and meadows of Tunbridge
Wells borough every
Wednesday you will find a
band of Kent High Weald
Partnership volunteers,
who put something back into the
local community and landscape.
Volunteers are all ages from teenagers to octogenarians,
and from a wide range of backgrounds and experience.
The only thing they have in common is an interest in
wildlife and the countryside, and the enjoyment of a
sociable days
exercise out in the outdoors.
They work in the Local Nature Reserves and
greenspaces of Tunbridge Wells, helping to
conserve species like bluebells, dormice,
frogs and other wildlife.
Dont worry if this all sounds a bit strenuous, as we are
careful to tailor the work to suit all abilities.
Volunteer Vikki Osborne explains, when you volunteer
with the Kent High Weald Partnership it teaches you
new skills like hedgelaying, boardwalk construction and
how to manage ponds. The group atmosphere is really
relaxed and there is lots of tea and biscuits!
The Kent High Weald Partnership provides all the tools
needed and instruction on how to use them safely and
effectively.
All you need to bring is a sturdy pair of boots, suitable
clothing for the weather, a packed lunch and an
enthusiasm to get stuck in.
So if you are interested in volunteering for the
Kent High Weald Partnership:
contact Sarah Tree 01580 212972
e-mail info@khwp.org.uk
go to the volunteering section on
www.khwp.org.uk
22
Home insulation
subsidies are
currently available!
Act now to beat price rises on insulation and
heating costs! The cost of home insulation
will more than double during 2012 when
the subsidies on insulation measures
currently provided by gas and electricity
suppliers come to an end.
At the moment all homeowners with inadequate loft or
cavity wall insulation can take advantage of subsidised
prices from 149 to make their homes more energy
effcient. Having adequate insulation can help reduce
fuel bills by up to 300* each year so it doesnt take long
before the work has paid for itself.
The current programme run by the energy companies
comes to an end in 2012. After this time, future support
will concentrate on the poorest and most vulnerable
householders and the cost of insulation measures will
rise from an average of 149 to approximately 350.
Last winter householders suffered substantial increases
in the prices of gas, electricity and particularly heating
oil. Combining this with the coldest December in over
100 years there were few who werent affected by the
rising cost of keeping homes warm. The governor of
the Bank of England recently predicted that gas prices
could rise by 15% and electricity by 10% in the very near
future.
So more than ever it makes sense to take action now
and ensure your home is well insulated. Make the most
of subsidies available that can help keep your future
heating bills down!
Homeowners over the age of 70 or in receipt of
qualifying benefts may also be eligible for free
insulation.
For free, impartial advice about home insulation and the
discount and free schemes available, please call the
Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512012.
*Source: Energy Saving Trust.
for a 4 ball at
Poult Wood Golf
Centre Tonbridge
Book now: 01732 364039 or email: leisure.services@tmbc.gov.uk
For more information see www.poultwoodgolf.co.uk
80
Enjoy 18 holes of golf for only 80 for a group of four,
thats only 20 per person!
1814 PW 80for4 ball advert 180x135.indd 1 10/4/11 21:13:53
Did chew know?
Just under half the UK population chew gum.
If you dont dispose of your gum responsibly
and are caught littering in the borough you
could face an on-the-spot fine of 75.
Chewing gum is probably the most diffcult type of litter
the street cleansing team has to deal with. Its stickiness
means normal cleaning methods like street sweeping and
litter picking dont work. More extreme methods like
jet washing and steam cleaning have to be
used to remove it
The average clean up of gum
from a town centre costs
20K according to Keep
Britain Tidy.
Please dispose of
gum responsibly.
23

E
vening S
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unday E
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Y

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THE AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION DIRECT FROM THE NATIONAL THEATRE AND BROADWAY

O
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P
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#####
EVENING STANDARD
#####
DAILY EXPRESS
#####
SUNDAY EXPRESS

THE TIMES


P
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V
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C
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P
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B
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N
Monday 5 Saturday 10 September
Evenings 7.30pm
Matinees Wednesday & Saturday 2.30pm
Opening night: all tickets 20, Tuesday Thursday Evening: 26.00, 23.00, 18.00 RV
Wednesday & Saturday Matinee: 26.00, 20.00, 18.00 RV
Friday & Saturday Evening: 29.00, 23.00, 18.00 RV
Concessions and group rates available, excludes opening night
THE AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTION DIRECT FROM THE NATIONAL THEATRE AND BROADWAY
A WONDERFUL
PIECE OF
THEATRE:
COMIC, SAD
AND STIRRING
IN
THE SAME
BREATH
FINANCIAL TIMES
Sponsored by
Originally produced by Newcastles acclaimed Live Theatre, and following sell-out seasons
at the National Theatre and on Broadway, Bill Kenwright presents the award-winning play
THE PITMEN PAINTERS, which embarks on a National tour this spring prior to opening in
the West End.
Written by Lee Hall, creator of the worldwide sensation Billy Elliot and directed by Max
Roberts, THE PITMEN PAINTERS has received huge critical acclaim and won the Evening
Standard award for Best New Play.
In 1934, a group of Ashington miners hired a professor to teach an art appreciation evening
class. Rapidly abandoning theory in favour of practice, the pitmen began to paint. Within a
few years the most avant-garde artists became their friends and their work was acquired by
prestigious collections; but every day they worked, as before, down the mine. Examining the
lives of a group of ordinary men that do extraordinary things, THE PITMEN PAINTERS is a
humorous, deeply moving and timely look at art, class and politics.
Dragons in Dunorlan!
The new natural play area in Dunorlan Park in Tunbridge
Wells is now ready for pre-school and younger children to
enjoy during a visit in the warm summer months.
The play area is very close to the top pond where the putting green used
to be.
A willow tunnel is just one of the natural features to be enjoyed by young
visitors to the park. The play area also includes grassy mounds; a climbing
glade; wooden swings; a slide on the main mound in the middle of the
play area and a sound and sensory glade. A wild fower area will offer an
opportunity to get close up to nature.
Two trees which were due to be felled have been given a new lease of
life in the climbing glade, becoming an exciting structure to be explored.
A section of one of the tree trunks has been transformed by sculptor
and chainsaw artist, Ray Brooks of Hearts of Oak, to become the
dragons head on the grassy dragons body.
Peter Every for Tunbridge Wells Borough Councils parks team said:
A play area should be exciting and encourage creative, adventurous
and imaginative play which is exactly what the young visitors to this
redesigned space in Dunorlan will experience.
Natural features have been an important aspect of the design of
the new play area which complements the Victorian landscape of
the park.
The play area has been completely paid for using funds from
developments in the area as part of the planning application
process. The Council is able to do this under the terms of the Town
and Country Planning Act 1990.
26
Free outdoor
activities
The borough of Tunbridge
Wells is a beautiful place
with a huge variety of wildlife
habitats for everyone to see
and enjoy.
Wildlife spotting is not only limited to
specifc designated sites; there are
some great places to see all kinds of
species, if you keep your eyes peeled.
You can spot wildlife in your town
centre, along the side of roads, in
parks, woodlands, hedges, roadside
verges, gardens or grasslands.
Attending one of the Kent High Weald Partnerships wildlife
events will help you to get up close and personal with
wildlife and all the wildlife events are completely free of
charge! KHWP events programme is bigger than ever, as
well as being free to all, there is a huge selection of things
for all ages to get involved in. So if you want to have a go
at being Ray Mears, a stroke of the Tony Harts or a futter
of the Bill Oddies its all in our events programme!
For further information and to book on to an event visit
www.khwp.org.uk or call 01580 212972 to receive a copy
of the events guide.
D
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Book Online at www.kesr.org.uk or Telephone 01580 765155
www.thomasandfriends.com
Enjoy a great
Day Out With Thomas

at the Kent & East Sussex Railway,

Tenterden
Pre-booking strongly advised. Tickets from 10.00.
Saturday 23rd, Sunday 24th
and Monday 25th July, 2011.
TE
A
TIM
E
W
ITH
D
A
IS
Y
Every afternoon
at 3.05pm
Supplement payable
27
Meet our new
Councillors...
The borough
elections in May saw
seven changes to
council seats and so
we wanted to be able
to provide a small
profile of each of the
new faces for you.
Additionally, since
the same elections
were held in 2010,
three other new faces
have appeared. So
please allow us to
introduce the 10
newest Tunbridge
Wells Borough
Councillors...
Cllr Bob Backhouse
Conservative
Sherwood
01892 535086/07952
650669
Elected 16 December 2010
Cllr Backhouse was born
in Kent and previously sat
on Eastbourne Borough
Council from 19982001.
He has lived in Tunbridge
Wells for 10 years, the past
four in Sherwood.
With a history degree, Cllr
Backhouse now spends
much of his time learning
and understanding how our
local community works. He
is a regular volunteer for
Kent University and local
housing providers.
Living in the heart of the
ward and working with the
Sherwood community, Cllr
Backhouse is passionate
about making Sherwood
work and ensuring it
receives the fair share of
grants and help.
Cllr Ms Claire Brown
Liberal Democrat
Pembury
01892 825666
Elected 17 March 2011
Cllr Ms Brown has lived in
Pembury for fve years and
is an NLP (Neuro Linguistic
Programming) Practitioner,
specialising in eating
disorders.
Having grown up in South
East London, Cllr Ms Brown
is considered to be down
to earth and approachable.
So, if you have something
you would like to say or
share, please dont hesitate
to get in touch, shes here
to listen.
Cllr Miss Caroline
Derrick
Conservative
St Johns
01892 619772
Elected 5 May 2011
Cllr Miss Derrick has
lived in the town all her
life. She is a freelance
photographer and flm-
maker, also working part
time at Mascalls Art
Gallery. Over the years
Cllr Miss Derrick has been
involved with a number of
charities and having run her
own post offce previously,
understands and enjoys
being part of a local
community.
Cllr Edmund Hastie
Conservative
Goudhurst & Lamberhurst
01580 213468
Elected 5 May 2011
He has lived in the area for
12 years; after graduating
from Durham University,
worked for Greg Clark MP
in the Houses of Parliament
before working in fnance in
the City of London.
Edmund is a published
author. His book,
Sherlock Holmes and
the Disappearing Prince,
a collection of Sherlock
Holmes pastiches, was
written when he was 14
and published shortly
afterwards.
Cllr Mrs Dianne Hill
Labour
Southborough & High
Brooms
07747 193133
Elected 5 May 2011
Cllr Mrs Hill has eight
years experience on
Southborough Town
Council, has spent 11
years living in High Brooms
and in the Tunbridge
28
Wells area for 30 years
all told, 25 of these have
been spent working in the
communications industry
locally, for Telecoms.
Living locally, Cllr Mrs
Hill has three children
and three grandchildren;
she is a school governor
at St Matthews, sits on
Southborough Town
Council and is a member of
various local groups.
Cllr Mrs Jane March
Conservative
Horsmonden
07866 722038
Elected 5 May 2011
Cllr Mrs March has
lived in Horsmonden for
26 years; much of her
working life has involved
agriculture and horticulture.
Fundraising across the
county has become second
nature and she has been
on Horsmonden Parish
Council for a number of
years.
I take great pride in
representing the three
parishes of Brenchley,
Horsmonden and Matfeld
and enjoy liaising with
people. I am particularly
passionate about focussing
on supporting rural
communities.
Cllr Nicholas Rogers
Conservative
Culverden
07843 225805
Elected 5 May 2011
Born and raised in
Tunbridge Wells, Cllr
Rogers also spent fve
years at University in
London; at this time
he also served as a
Special Constable in the
Metropolitan Police. He
currently teaches at K
College, Tonbridge and
previously worked for the
Mayor of London.
Cllr John Smith
Independent
Frittenden & Sissinghurst
01580 712898
Cllr Smith was originally
elected as a Conservative
to represent Frittenden &
Sissinghurst in May 2001
and has now lived in the
area for 17 years.
He grew up in South
London and studied
Mechanical & Production
Engineering at Mid
Kent College. Now
Managing Director of grain
cooperative, Weald Granary
in Mereworth, Cllr Smith is
married to Rebecca and
they have three teenage
children.
Cllr Smith once spent an
afternoon sampling tea
from around with world
with former British Prime
Minister James Callaghan
& his wife. He is also a
qualifed football referee!

Cllr Mrs Lynne Weatherly
Conservative
Sherwood
01892 614516
Elected 5 May 2011
Having lived in Tunbridge
Wells since birth, and
spent 10 years living in
Sherwood.
For the past 30 years,
Cllr Mrs Weatherly has
been working with, and
for, people with learning
disabilities; alongside her
continuing voluntary work in
Tunbridge Wells.
Cllr Mrs Weatherly lives,
works and socialises in
Sherwood. As well as
being involved with TN2
(Community Centre), she
is a regular at St Philips
Church and has her care
home in Sherwood.
Cllr Victor Webb
UK Independence Party
Rusthall
01892 529518
Elected 5 May 2011
I have lived in Tunbridge
Wells all my life; I have a
business in Rusthall and I
live nearby.
I embarked on a career
in the legal profession
dealing with litigation being
suited to a debate and legal
argument. I specialised and
became what is now called
a Costs Lawyer.
I am honoured to be the
frst UKIP Councillor in
Tunbridge Wells and thank
the people of Rusthall for
their trust and confdence. I
will discharge my duties to
the best of my abilities.
29
JUNe
The Extraordinary
Adventures Of Adle
Blanc-Sec
Trinity Theatre
28 June
11am | 2pm | 8pm
The Jungle Book
Assembly Hall
28 June 2 July
various times
Meek's Cutoff
Trinity Theatre
29 June
8pm
JULy

Dum Maaro Dum
Trinity Theatre
3 July
8pm
Jonathan Ansell &
Friends
Assembly Hall
3 July
7.30pm
The Way
Trinity Theatre
5 July
8pm
Love Like Poison
Trinity Theatre
6 July
8pm
The Big Sleep
Trinity Theatre
10 July
8pm
Water For Elephants
Trinity Theatre
12 July
11am | 2pm | 8pm
My Dog Tulip
Trinity Theatre
13 July
8pm
Phill Jupitus
Trinity Theatre
14 July
8pm
Local & Live
Trinity Theatre
16 July
8pm
Italia Conti Associates
Assembly Hall
16 17 July
Dangerous Corner
Trinity Theatre
19 July 24 July
3pm | 8pm
Rock Choir Live
Assembly Hall
23 July
7.30pm
The Big Picture
Trinity Theatre
26 July
11am | 2pm | 8pm
The Tree
Trinity Theatre
27 July
8pm
Jim Stapley
Trinity Theatre
28 July
8pm

An Ideal Husband
Trinity Theatre
29 July
7.30pm
Mammuth
Trinity Theatre
31 July
8pm
W
H
A
T

S

O
n
Trinity Theatre
Box Offce 01892 678 678
www.trinitytheatre.net
Assembly Hall
Box offce
01892 530613/532072
www.
assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
30
Local magazine is published by
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
tel: 01892 526121
website: www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk
e-mail: info@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
text: 07870 526121
fax: 01892 534227
Personal callers should
visit the Gateway at
8 Grosvenor Road,
Royal Tunbridge Wells
TN1 2AB
For postal enquiries please contact:
Town Hall
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Kent TN1 1RS
If you would like to comment
about any article in Local, or make
suggestions for any that should be
included, wed love to hear from
you.
In the frst instance contact:
Lizzie Goodwin,
Communications & Engagement
Team Leader,
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council,
Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells,
Kent TN1 1RS
localemail
@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
tel: 01892 526121
Advertising enquiries:
Space Marketing Ltd
01892 677742
emmam@spacemarketing.co.uk
The information in this publication was correct at the
time of going to print. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or
subsequent changes.
Is this
publication
accessible and
easy for you to
understand?
To comment on it,
or to get it in an
alternative format,
please call
01892 554079 or
e-mail publications@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Just Desserts!
The Tunbridge Wells Farmers Market has most foods
covered however is looking for a great dessert maker!
Can you make tart tatin, or strawberry tarts to die for?
Maybe your roulades are memorable?
Please contact : Barbara Simmons, Farmers Market
Manager, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council
Tel : 01892 554244
Email: barbara.simmons@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
SePTember
Boot Led Zeppelin
Assembly Hall
3 September
8pm
One night at the
Proms
Assembly Hall
4 September
7.30pm
The Pitmen Painters
Assembly Hall
5 10 September
(various times)
Mugenkyo Taiko
Drummers
Assembly Hall
18 September
7.30pm
31

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Sun 11am5pm

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prior purchases or exchange items. Not valid on purchases of mobile broadband, DHL delivery, gift
vouchers and postage stamps.
your in-store purchase
of 30 or more.
Voucher code: 301360
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Valid in Tunbridge Wells Staples

store only.
Offer valid 1/6/111/7/11 1/6/118/7/11
1/6/11 until 8/7/11