inside:

Summer
activities
Cycle special
Competitions,
news and loads
more
LOCAL
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council magazine
www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Summer 2014
2
We've got 28 pages packed with news and information
to keep you up-to-date from plans, keeping healthy,
activities, new initiatives and general updates that we
think you will want to know about.
Cycles at the ready...why not join in with our Cycle
Friday initiative that was launched last month see
the cycling special on p1213. If cycling isn't your
thing, how about a parkrun? Or try some of the free
activities taking place around the borough to keep
children busy and entertained during the holidays, or
attend some of the music festivals on our doorstep...
there are loads to choose from.
A small plug for this year's Love Where We Live
awards you can start nominating now. All the details
are on p1415, so let us know who you think deserves
recognition.
Lizzie Goodwin
Editor
We produce Local to keep you up-to-date about
council services and news. If you have any
comments about the magazine, wed love to hear
from you. Contact us by:
E-mail Localemail@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Phone 01892 526121
Post Lizzie Goodwin, Communications and
Engagement Team Leader, Tunbridge Wells
Borough Council, Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge
Wells, Kent TN1 1RS
TWellsCouncil TWBC_Comms
To advertise, contact Space Marketing Ltd,
01892 677740
or e-mail markg@spacemarketing.co.uk
Advertising helps to keep our costs down. We do
not endorse the external products and services
advertised in Local.
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.
If you require Local magazine in large print or audio CD please phone 01892 554273
4 Leader's new
Five Year Plan
25Assembly
Hall Theatre
20 Planning
8
Live it Well
7
Free Family
Fun Days
14 to
15
Love Where We
Live Awards 2014
12 to 13
Cycle Friday
10
parkrun
3
Leaders new FIVE YEAR PLAN
Councillor David Jukes, Leader of
the Council, has a new fve year
plan for the borough. It sets out
what the council wants to achieve
to enable the borough to have
a more prosperous, green and
confdent future. Councillor Jukes
describes his plan as realistic
and says it is focused on what
we can achieve over the next
fve years to help local people,
businesses and visitors to our
borough.'
As well as summarising what
the council is to achieve by
2019 (set out in the table below),
the plan also identifes a number of
areas of change. Taken together,
these form an ambitious programme
of work for the borough and include
key sites like: the cinema site, the
new cultural and learning hub and
community hubs in Cranbrook,
Paddock Wood and Southborough.
A confdent borough
A prosperous borough
A green borough
Well enhance the environment by: Public realm enhancements in Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre
Enhance the appearance and facilities at Grosvenor & Hilbert
recreation ground
Well improve our energy effciency
and consumption whilst assisting residents
and businesses to do the same:
ECO-funded housing retroft project within the borough, supporting
residents to improve the energy effciency of their homes
Well improve the vitality of
the borough by:
Implementing the Destination Management Plan
Making the best use of land and property assets
Securing suitable development schemes for further housing
development and community infrastructure
Developing business space for business start-ups
Supporting improvements to rural broadband speed
Well improve the attractiveness of
Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre
infrastructure and facilities by:
Holding an investment conference and delivering the Local Plan
Developing the concept of a cultural and learning hub'
Enhancing and promoting our off-street car parks
Well support improvements to
our road networks by:
Infrastructure improvements to North Farm and the dualling of
the A21
Well help residents play an active role in
the services they receive by:
Enabling parish and town councils to develop community facilities
and take control of local services
Well support our communities by: Enabling a range of events to support a year of local anniversaries
Photo above by Sean Aiden
4
Online Chat
Residents are using the web more and more
in their home lives for things like banking,
shopping and paying bills. Did you know you
can also use www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk to find
out a lot about your councils services?
But if you get stuck or cant fnd what you are looking for,
theres no need to waste time by picking up the phone
our free Online Chat service is available for you to chat
with the same friendly customer service advisors who
work in our Gateway.
If youve used Online Chat before youll know how
convenient it can be during your busy day. If youve
never used it, why not give it a try? There are plenty of
good reasons:
Why use Online Chat?
Free to use with no call charges
Its quick, easy and secure
You will chat directly with one of our customer service
advisors not an automated response!
PLUS during July, August and September, leave your
e-mail address after your chat and we will enter you
into a prize draw for two tickets to a theatre show.
Look for the Chat logo on
our website and simply
click to get started.
5
Introducing the
parks CEO
My name is Cally Fiddimore and I
am a local Tunbridge Wells resident
and park user. My role as Community
Engagement Offcer is predominantly
to deliver the Activity Plan for the
parks Heritage Lottery Fund project
over the next fve years. This means
working with the local community,
groups and schools to conserve and
improve the parks landscape and
heritage, and provide a range of
opportunities for learning, volunteering
and participating. I will be working
closely with the Friends Group and
the Kent High Weald Partnership as
well as other local community groups,
schools and organisations to deliver
events, activities and education. My
role will also be to help keep local
residents informed and up-to-date on
the progress of the projects larger
scale works.
My main place of work is the park! I
will mostly be based at the pavilion but
for the frst few months I will be darting
between the park and council offces.
I will shortly be putting up a notice to
inform everyone of when
to expect me in the park. If you would
like to get hold of me directly you
can e-mail me at cally.fddimore@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk. I will also
be popping up on the usual social
media sites. Find me on Facebook
at facebook.com/GHParkHLF or on
Twitter @GHParkHLF.
There will be plenty of opportunities
to get involved in the park and I
will be looking for volunteers for
a range of jobs and activities. If
you are interested in the park,
wildlife, horticulture, social media,
photography, art, bushcraft,
conservation, history, writing, music,
sport or playing I would like to hear
from you. You dont need specifc skills
(though they are also very welcome)
and any amount of time would be most
appreciated. There will be training
opportunities available.
If you are interested in getting involved
or have any questions please do
contact me. I would also love to hear
your ideas on what you would like to
see happening in the park or let me
know if you would like to host an event
in the park.
New face in
Grosvenor
& Hilbert Park
As part of the lottery funded
regeneration project, Grosvenor
and Hilbert Park now has a
Community Engagement Officer
who will be in post until 2019.
photo by Christopher Cassidy
6
FUN
DAYS
2014
Family
Family Fun Days are back for
summer 2014, taking place at
a venue near you during the
school summer holidays in
August!
If youre looking for things to do during
the summer break, look no further
than one of the Family Fun Days
taking place across the borough
come along and have fun together. Try
out sports including Kwik Cricket, tag
rugby, football and many more. There
will also be lots of group activities and
games to join in with. If sports arent
your thing, then how about creating
something amazing in the arts and
crafts area? Its all free!
There will be 20 Family Fun Days in
all, starting on Monday 4 August at
Calverley Grounds in Royal Tunbridge
Wells, and returning there for the fnal
day on Friday 29 August. In between,
events will be held all across the
borough, so there is bound to be one
near you.
You dont need to book in advance
just turn up on the day and register
with the activity leaders. Please
note that children will need to be
accompanied by an adult at all times.
Full details of dates and venues can
be found on the councils website or
by contacting Nick Green, Sports,
Grants & Communities Offcer on
01892 554108, or e-mail: nick.green@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk There will also
be local publicity via schools, libraries
and town and parish councils.
F
R
E
E
7
For more ideas on how to improve your health and wellbeing visit liveitwell.org.uk
:
1 Connect with the people
around you at home, work, school
or in your local community;
family, friends, colleagues and
neighbours. Think of these
relationships as the cornerstones
of your life and invest time in
developing them.
Sit with the family and eat a
meal together more
Ask someone how their week is
going and really listen

2 Be Active step outside and
go for a walk, run or bike ride. Play
a lawn game with your children.
Exercising makes you feel good.
Most importantly, discover a
physical activity that you enjoy; one
that suits your level of mobility and
ftness.
Park in a spot thats a 10-minute
walk away from the shops
Mow the lawn or do some
gardening
Live it Well website is live
The website has been developed to promote wellbeing and to
help people living in the county to maintain their wellbeing by
providing detailed information, help and guidance. The Live it
Well website was put together by people from voluntary and
public sector organisations in Kent and Medway.
Check out liveitwell.org.uk
Regular exercise, a healthy balanced diet and access to meaningful work
all help to keep us happy and well. The Live It Well website has been
developed with this in mind; to help people become better connected
with what is happening in their local community. The website also aims to
encourage its visitors to take up The Six Ways to Wellbeing. Research
shows that these six ways: connect, give, take notice, keep learning,
be active and grow your world can improve your mood, strengthen your
relationships and help you to cope when life doesnt go to plan.
More Information about The Six Ways to Wellbeing and how to get started
3 Give do something nice for
a friend, or a neighbour. Join a
community group and volunteer
your time. Look out, as well as in;
seeing yourself, and your happiness,
linked to the wider community can be
incredibly rewarding and will create
connections with the people around
you.
Contact a charity or community
group about volunteering
www.khwp.org.uk
Compliment a colleague or friend
on their clothes or haircut
4 Keep Learning try something
new, rediscover an old interest or sign
up for that course. Set a challenge
you will enjoy achieving, such as
taking on a different responsibility at
work, learning to play an instrument
or how to cook your favourite food.
Learning new things will make you
more confdent, as well as being fun
to do.
Go for a taster session at
www.kentadulteducation.co.uk
Read a book youve always
wanted to read
5 Take Notice be curious;
catch sight of the beautiful and
remark on the unusual. Savour
the moment, whether you are
on a train, eating lunch or
talking to friends. Be aware of
the world around you and what
you are feeling. Refecting on
your experiences will help you
appreciate what matters to you.
Go out and take pictures as the
seasons change
Practice slow breathing four
times a day
6 Grow your World... look after
your community and the world.
Make small changes to your life
that will reduce your energy use,
recycle more, leave the car at
home, use low-energy lightbulbs,
small steps to a greener life can
make a difference.
Switch off phone chargers
when not using them
Plant a seed or grow some
vegetables
8
A flipping
good time!
The Farmers Market hosted a
Fairtrade Pancake-Bake Off
for World Fairtrade Day.
Organised by the Fairtrade Town
Group, the Bake-Off included
contestants from all over the town
and was opened by last year's
Mayor, Dr Ronan Basu, who wowed
the judges with his pancake fipping
skills and his own Fairtrade flling.
A celebration of all that is Fairtrade
and local, the Farmers Market was
temporarily expanded to include
Fairtrade stalls, live music, and the
Health team with their smoothie making bicycle. They were there
not only to promote walk to school' week but also to support hard
working farmers the world over. Banana smoothies proved to be
particularly popular and very relevant this year with the plight of
banana farmers dominating the current Fairtrade campaign.
Each year, people in the UK spend over 550 million on more
than fve billion bananas, but only one in three of these are sold
on a Fairtrade basis. This means the majority of bananas are sold
by farmers at a price which doesnt cover the cost of production,
ultimately keeping them trapped in poverty.
Fairtrade farmers beneft from fair prices, decent working
conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade. Fairtrade
brings real benefts not only for farmers but for whole communities.
The good news is that its not only bananas, there are many other
Fairtrade and local fruit and vegetables available.
As we carefully consider our fve (or seven) a day, we can not only
improve our own welfare but the lives of others as well.
FOOD SAFETY WEEK
2014
Each year the Food Standards Agency
organises Food Safety Week and this years
was held from 16 to 22 June 2014. The
theme for Food Safety Week 2014 was:
Dont wash raw chicken.
This has been supported by the council's Food
& Commercial team by sharing tips about what
consumers can do to protect themselves and their
family from food poisoning in their own home,
particularly when handling chicken. See
www.food.gov.uk/chicken for more useful
information and to fnd out about the germ
Campylobacter.
For further information please contact the
Food and Commercial team on 01892 526121 or
e-mail foodandcomm@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
We know that eating more
fruit and veg contributes
towards a healthy,
balanced diet.
Few of us will argue with that. It
seems the question being asked
recently is not just about whether
our recommended daily amount
should be fve or seven portions,
but what is the recommended
portion size. Some references such
as 'a handful' can be misleading.
The photo gives an example of the
seven a day recommended fruit
and veg at the recommended 80g
(3oz).
Do you wash?
Did you know washing raw chicken can spread
germs around the kitchen?
Splashing can spread germs on to other
surfaces, food, your skin, cloths and equipment,
which can lead to serious illness such as food
poisoning
The most common germ that causes food
poisoning in the UK is Campylobacter. It
is considered to be responsible for around
460,000 cases of food poisoning and 22,000
hospitalisations
Wash your hands after preparing raw chicken
Thorough cooking kills Campylobacter
Keep all kitchen surfaces and equipment clean
Dont wash raw chicken
9
Have fun with a parkrun!
parkrun is now up and running
in Royal Tunbridge Wells, taking
place every Saturday morning at
9am in Dunorlan Park.
The beautiful Victorian landscaped
park is set in 78 acres with a boating
lake and caf, and offers an inspiring
setting for the joggers, fun-runners
and more serious athletes who want
to get ft and test themselves on a
weekly basis over a fve kilometre
course.
The idea behind parkrun is to set
up free, weekly, fve kilometre timed
runs in countries all across the world.
These events are open to everyone
and are designed to be safe and easy
to take part in. They usually take place
in pleasant parkland surroundings and
the organisers encourage people of
all abilities to take part from those
taking their frst steps in running to
Olympians; from juniors to those with
more experience all are welcome.
The frst Royal Tunbridge Wells
parkrun took place at the end of April
and despite the typical early spring
weather (wind and rain in spades)
190 people from across the south
east came along to take part. Jacky
MacDonald, parkrun co-ordinator for
Kent, said:
'We would like to thank Tunbridge
Wells Borough Council and the
parkrun sponsors for funding what
is one of the most scenic parkruns
in Kent. Also a huge thank you to Jo
Watts, as the Event Director, and all
the volunteers for their hard work in
bringing this parkrun to fruition.'
The organisers will be looking for
volunteers to help out in a range
of tasks as Royal Tunbridge
Wells' parkrun goes from strength
to strength. If you or family or
friends can help out please e-mail:
royaltunbridgewellsoffce@parkrun.
com.
For more information about Royal
Tunbridge Wells' parkrun and how
to register, visit the website:
parkrun.org.uk/royaltunbridgewells.
Also on Facebook and Twitter.
Photo: courtesy of Kent & Sussex Courier
Fancy growing your own?
Has the BBCs allotment challenge given you the appetite to
get outdoors this summer and grow your own?
The council currently has allotment plots available in Royal Tunbridge
Wells so if you live in the town, register with us and get planting!
Allotment plots are available in a range of sizes and locations so contact
the Parks team by e-mail at parks@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or phone on
01892 554031 to fnd out more and see if there is a plot that is right for you.
We currently have a limited number of plots available at Eridge Road,
Ferrars (Cornford Lane), Holly Farm (Hawkenbury), Sandhurst Road,
Woodlands (near St Johns Primary School).
If you live outside of Royal Tunbridge Wells, please contact your local
parish or town council who can advise if there are vacancies in your local
area.
10
CYCLE FRIDAY or
EVERY DAY?
Do you enjoy cycling? Wish that you could save
money, enjoy the great outdoors and get fit at
the same time? The Tunbridge Wells Cycling
Forum has just launched Cycle Friday, a new
initiative to encourage cyclists of all abilities to
get on two wheels!
Following a public meeting held by Greg Clark, MP in
November 2013, the Cycling Forum has come together
to make Tunbridge Wells a more cycle-friendly borough.
As well as launching Cycle Friday, the forum is also
seeking to promote a cycling road safety campaign in
2014. The ideas and experience of forum members will
also inform a new Cycling Strategy for the borough that
is being prepared by TWBC and KCC. The proposed
vision for the strategy is To make cycling a normal
part of everyday life in the borough, by creating a
safe and welcoming environment for cyclists of all
ages and abilities.'
Many people cycled in their youth but have since given
up, often due to fear of traffc, lack of confdence and
inadequate facilities for cycling. The Cycling Forum
hopes to work with partners to overcome these barriers
and make cycling a real choice for people of all ages to
undertake commuting, leisure and other local journeys.
If you are interested in becoming involved with the
forum please contact us by e-mail:
business@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Cycle Friday
Cycle Friday was launched on 6 June. 'Its a
movement to encourage and inform residents and
workers about the benefts of and opportunities
for cycling' says forum member Martin Brice, who
has been a resident for nearly 20 years. 'Cycling
is becoming more popular, and the forum hopes
that people will cycle on Fridays and other days of
the week too!' A website is under development and
provides information on cycle routes, parking and
related events: cyclefriday.co.uk. Further information
will also be published on Twitter, Facebook and in the
local press.
Motoring organisation the AA has recently launched
a Think Bikes campaign... to promote better awareness of
cyclists and motorcyclists by motorists. A million free wing mirror
stickers are being distributed to drivers, encouraging them to
check blind spots for cycles (nearside mirror) and motorcycles
(offside mirror).
The AAs president, Edmund King, said that: 'The AA Think Bikes
campaign is defnitely needed when half of drivers are often
surprised when a cyclist or motorcyclist "appears from nowhere".
Those on two wheels never appear from nowhere so as drivers
we need to be more alert to other road users and this is where our
stickers act as a daily reminder. Likewise riders need to be aware
that they may not always be spotted by drivers. We hope that this
campaign can reach the parts that other campaigns cant reach.'
12
Road Safety
One of the main reasons that people say that they dont or wont
cycle is because of concerns about road safety. Whilst traffc free,
segregated routes are welcomed by cyclists, these are not available
in all parts of the borough. Cyclists will frequently need to cycle
on roads with other vehicles for all or part of their journey. It is
therefore important that cyclists are equipped to cycle on the road,
are confdent and have good bike handling skills. Cycling charities,
including The Cycling Touring Club (CTC), Sustrans and British
Cycling, are able to provide further advice.
It is important that cyclists and drivers look out for each other on the
road. The Department for Transport's THINK campaign has set out
a series of tips to remind both drivers and cyclists about the correct
way to drive and ride, and therefore help to reduce related collisions.
If you are a driver, a cyclist, or both please take time to read the
following advice:

Following on from the huge success of
the frst Great Tunbridge Wells Bike ride
last September, this event is returning on
Sunday 14 September. The event is a cycle
sportive with distances of 25 and 55 miles,
and you can enter as a solo, team or with
your family.
This event is being delivered by Wildside
Cycles and Tunbridge Wells is Traffc Aware
(TWITA), with the support of Tunbridge
Wells Borough Council. Further information
will be released on wildside-online.co.uk
and on the Cycle Friday website. Please
note: entrants must be at least 14 years of
age.
If you are heading out on two wheels we
hope you enjoy your ride cyclists and
motorists remember to look out for each
other! Cyclists please ensure your bike is in
good condition; if you need cycling advice,
equipment, components or indeed a brand
new bike, why not support one of our local
independent retailers too!
FREE wing mirror stickers
are being distributed at
all Halfords outlets and
directly to AA breakdown
members. We encourage
all motorists to use the
stickers and check
their mirrors carefully
when driving. The
Cycling Forum will be undertaking local
promotion of both campaigns during 2014.
THINK! advice for
when you're driving
1 Look out for cyclists,
especially when turning
make eye contact if possible
so they know youve seen
them
2 Use your indicators signal
your intentions so that
cyclists can react
3 Give cyclists plenty of space
when overtaking them,
leaving as much room as
you would give a car. If
there isnt suffcient space to
pass, hold back. Remember
that cyclists may need to
manoeuvre suddenly if the
road is poor, its windy or if a
car door is opened
4 Always check for cyclists
when you open your car door
5 Advance stop lines allow
cyclists to get to the front
and increase their visibility.
You must stop at the frst
white line reached if the
lights are amber or red and
allow cyclists time and space
to move off when the green
signal shows
6 Follow the Highway Code
including stop and give
way signs and traffc lights
THINK! advice for
when you're cycling
1 Ride positively, decisively
and well clear of the kerb
look and signal to show
drivers what you plan to do
and make eye contact where
possible so you know drivers
have seen you
2 Avoid riding up the inside of
large vehicles, like lorries or
buses, where you might not
be seen
3 Always use lights after dark
or when visibility is poor
4 Wearing light coloured or
refective clothing during the
day. Refective clothing and/
or accessories in the dark
increases your visibility
5 Follow the Highway Code
including observing stop
and give way signs and
traffc lights
6 THINK! recommends
wearing a correctly ftted
cycle helmet, which is
securely fastened and
conforms to current
regulations
13
are back again this year,
so now is the time to take
stock of the people who help
make your community a great
place to live. You can help
ensure that all the amazing
individuals, organisations and
groups of people across
the borough are
recognised for their
hard work and
commitment.
The awards arent
just about big
achievements;
sometimes its the
little things that go a
long way. There are
many categories, so
no matter what it is your
nominee does or has done, we
hope youll fnd a suitable award to
put them forward for.
Please help make this years awards
an even greater success by telling
us about those special people you
know and why you think they deserve
to be recognised. Lets acknowledge
and celebrate their efforts and
extraordinary qualities.
Winners will be chosen by an
independent judging panel and
invited to an awards ceremony on the
evening of Tuesday 14 October 2014,
when they will be presented with a
trophy and receive a prize.
How to nominate
Complete a nomination form, which
youll fnd on the councils website at
tunbridgewells.gov.uk. Forms are also
available from Saffron or Lizzie on
01892 554270. You can submit your
form online, print it off and post it to
us, or pick one up at the Gateway or
Weald Information Centre.
The Awards categories for 2014
Sports Achiever of the
Year A
w
ard
Inspired by Daisy Fletcher
Through this award wed like to recognise and encourage an individual,
team or club who has made exceptional
progress, reached extraordinary goals
in their discipline, or made an important
contribution to sport locally. This isnt
just about moving up the grade, but also about personal achievement, overcoming adversity and supporting
others to do so.
Who are your local sporting
champions?
Charity of the Year
Award
This award is for any registered
charity that operates in the borough of
Tunbridge Wells. Nominations can be
received from staff, volunteers or from
those who beneft from their work.
Tell us about a charity that
enhances the lives and wellbeing
of residents in the Tunbridge Wells
borough
Individual H
ero
A
w
ard
Inspired by Val Joy
This award is for an individual who
makes a special effort to enhance
other peoples lives. Perhaps its
the little things they do that go
a long way and they are simply
always there if needed. Or they may
do something that is particularly
meaningful to their community or
benefcial to the environment in
which they live that unsung hero
who deserves to be recognised.
Whose contribution do you
appreciate?
T
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o
s
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g

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t
e


f
o
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n
o
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i
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Main Sponsor for 2014
Love Where We
Live Awards 2014
14
The Awards categories for 2014
Terms and conditions
at a glance
Nominees can be entered for more
than one category.
Nominations must be for a living
person.
Nominations per person or
organisation are unlimited, but each
must be submitted on an offcial
entry form.
Winners will be chosen by an
independent judging panel and
invited to an awards ceremony on
Tuesday 14 October 2014.
Nominations can be made by any
member of the community.
An individual, group or company can
nominate themselves.
All eligible nominations will be
shortlisted, before going to an
independent judging panel, whose
decision is fnal.
Contact us
For more information, contact
Saffron or Lizzie on 01892 554270,
or at: LoveWhereWeLive@
tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Young Volunteer of
the Year A
w
ard
This award is for that young person
you know, aged 24 or under, who stands out as somebody with very special qualities; somebody who gives up their spare time to volunteer
and, in doing so, contributes to the welfare of others, their community as
a whole or the environment.
Would you like to see a particular
young person rewarded for their
efforts?
Lifetim
e Achievem
ent
A
w
ard
There are people in our borough who have been making a vital contribution to their community for many years and we would like to hear about them. Who in your community has been going out of their way to help others for ten years or more?
Are you inspired by someones dedication and commitment?
Best Group A
w
ard
Is there a group of people who are
the life blood of your community?
Perhaps they can always be relied
upon to help out at events or raise
funds. It could be that they are
championing a green project, or
creating opportunities for people to
get involved in local activities such
as a club or other social group.
Do you admire a groups
collective energy, enthusiasm or
achievements?
Ethical Business
A
w
ard
This award will recognise a local
company that can demonstrate its
commitment to having a positive
impact on the community and/or
the environment. This could include
taking steps to reduce carbon
emissions, such as a recycling or
energy saving programme, supporting
a local charity, providing employment
opportunities for young people or
buying from local companies.
Do you know or work for an
organisation that is putting
something back into the
community?
Main Sponsor for 2014
Safer Com
m
unity
A
w
ard
This award will highlight the efforts of
a person or people who have helped
make your community a safer place
to live. This could involve improving
the safety of pedestrians, children
and cyclists in your area, or taking
steps to stamp out crime and anti-
social behaviour.
Who do you know that believes
in positive change and making it
happen?
Love Where We Live
Award
This award is not open for
nominations; the winner will be
selected from the other categories
by a panel of judges. It is an overall
award for the individual, group or
company that has made the most
outstanding contribution to their
community and/or the environment, or
realised the most exceptional goals.
Their work will embody what it means
to Love Where We Live.
Whose time is it to shine in 2014?
15
Dont be caught out this summer
As the summer months
are fast approaching it is
important not only to keep
ourselves safe but to keep our
belongings safe too.
Most thefts from motor vehicles
are crimes of opportunity and
often happen in the evening or
during the night when cars are
parked near or outside the home.
A high proportion of vehicle crimes
have a common theme a bag/
phone/coat/sat nav is left in view.
There is no better advice than
this: do not leave anything
in your car when you leave it
parked, especially at night.
Vehicles are becoming increasingly
diffcult to be taken without using the
keys and in many cases these are
stolen from the victims house. Dont
leave your keys on display or by your
front door and keep them in a safe
place at all times.
Here are some other general safety
tips to protect your belongings and
your car this summer:
When you park your car remove
mobile phones, iPods, sat navs
and other obvious valuables. Clean
the suction marks left by satellite
navigation systems, if you can
Always close the windows and
sunroof, lock the doors and
activate any security devices when
leaving your car unattended even
if you intend to be gone for just a
short while
If you must park on the roadside,
where possible park in a busy or
well-lit area
Dont be seen hiding things in your
car, especially if there is a boot
release mechanism in the vehicle
placing a handbag in the boot
before setting out on a country
walk for instance
Security mark and photograph
your vehicle. Etching the windows
and other areas with the Vehicle
Identifcation Number (VIN), will
make it more diffcult to sell on
As cars are becoming harder to steal
and people are becoming more aware
of keeping their property safe, car
thieves have moved on to new targets
vans. Tools found in the backs of
vans are often of high value, so take
extra precautions.
Dont leave your van open whilst
youre working
Dont assume your vehicle has
locked properly using a key fob
lock. Always check your doors are
locked before leaving your vehicle
unattended
If you have a garage, use it. If
your van is parked on a driveway,
consider installing security lighting.
If neither of these applies park in a
well lit area
When tools and equipment are not
being used, ensure they are kept
securely in a lockable store rather
than in your vehicle
If equipment is portable, take it with
you
Dont leave tools in vehicles
unattended or overnight and place
a sign in the window stating they
have been removed
Keep a list of tools together with
serial numbers and any identifying
marks. You can do this at www.
immobilise.com. This will help trace
them back to you if they are stolen
and then recovered
If someone has tried to sell you a
secondhand sat nav, mobile phone or
power tools in unusual circumstances,
contact the police on 101 or
Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Do you struggle to use a computer?
Would you like to improve your computer skills?
Gateway are running free basic computer skills courses. Call 01892 526121 or
pop into Gateway to book a session and fnd out more.
16
Tunbridge Wells International
Young Concert Artists Competition
is in July. This is a prestigious
international competition that is held
every two years which is a platform
for outstanding young musicians at a
critical time in their development.
First round
17 18 July
Second round (semi-fnals)
19 July at Kent College, Pembury.
The Assembly Hall Theatre hosts the
fnal on 20 July.
twiyca.org
For August bank holiday, Local &
Live is back! This time in a new
venue with a number of new events.
Still keeping to the original ethos, all
the music performed is original and
from local musicians.
Local & Live will be held in Calverley
Grounds on Saturday 23 Sunday
24 August this year, with the
weekend being kicked off by a
number of fringe events held from
Friday 22 Monday 25 August.
These will be held across the town,
including The Forum.
localandlive.org
Royal Tunbridge Wells International
Music Festival will span October
with a number of performances by
well known artists including James
Pearson and Michael Collins. There
will be a special concert Crash, Bang,
Wallop! for children aged 37. More
details will be out later this month.
tunbridgewellsfestival.co.uk
Just for 2014 to celebrate 25 years
of Tunbridge Wells' twinning with
Wiesbaden there are performances
by the Wiesbaden Symphonic
Brass Ensemble planned for:
Saturday 26 July 10.3011.30am
Calverley Road (Millennium Clock
end)
Saturday 26 July 1 2.30pm
Pantiles Bandstand
Sunday 27 July 3 4.30pm
Woodbury Park Cemetery (if wet in St
John's Church)
All performances are free and
promoted by Tunbridge Wells
Twinning and Friendship Association.
For more information on music
throughout the year go to:
facebook.com/soundsofthewells @
soundsoftwells
The way we all register to VOTE is changing
The way you register to vote is
changing across the UK. You
may need to take action to join
the new register, even if you
were registered in the past.
About the change
The registration system changed in
June 2014. The new system is called
Individual Electoral Registration.
Previously, the head of household
was responsible for registering
everyone who lived at an address, but
now each individual is responsible for
their own voter registration. The new
system means that for the frst time
people are now able to register online.
To register, you will need to provide
a few more details, including your
National Insurance number and date
of birth. This helps make the electoral
register more secure.
Most people who are already
registered have been transferred
automatically to the new register.
However, some will need to re-
register. There are also people in the
area who are not registered to vote
at all and so need to register to have
their say in elections. If you werent
registered previously, you can register
under the new system at gov.uk/
yourvotematters.
This is the biggest change to the
voter registration system in 100 years.
Locally, we are focused on ensuring
that people have the information they
need to join the new register.
To fnd out more, visit
gov.uk/yourvotematters
W
e w
ill w
rite and let you
know
if you need to do
anything. It is im
portant
you respond so that
you can have your say
in future elections and referendum
s.
2014 summer has already
kicked off with Tunbridge
Wells' unique music festivals.
Hopefully you managed to pop
down to The Forums Unfest
which has added more venues
each year.
If you did miss this years, jot down
the second May Bank holiday 2015
in your diary.
There are still three more
festivals for 2014
17
Not so 'legal highs'
'Legal highs', or New
Psychoactive Substances (NPS)
as they are known to the police,
are substances which produce
similar effects to illegal drugs,
such as cocaine or cannabis
but are not controlled under the
Misuse of Drugs Act. However,
although a drug may be referred
to as being legal, this does not
mean it is safe or approved for
use; simply that it has not yet
been declared illegal.
Just because the drugs are legal
to possess doesn't mean they are
safe.
Even if a substance is not controlled
by the Misuse of Drugs Act they are
regulated by the Medicines Act, which
makes them illegal to sell, supply or
advertise for human consumption.
Sadly, however, many companies
are getting around this by writing
'not for human consumption' on the
packaging.
Here in Tunbridge Wells we are proud
to say there are currently no stores
that sell 'legal highs' and we are taking
a very proactive approach to tackling
this problem; however, there are still
concerns for how readily available
they are online.
Taking 'legal highs' can have serious
consequences for your health and can
in some serious cases result in death
because:
You never know what you're taking
in any drug, so the effects can be
very unpredictable
Legal highs can contain a range of
potentially dangerous chemicals,
and their chemical makeup
changes all the time
Although legal, most of these
substances are actually illegal to
sell, supply, or advertise for human
consumption, under medical
legislation, due to their effects on
the body
The chemicals in legal highs have,
in most cases, never before been
used as drugs, and their safety has
not been tested
Suppliers may use descriptions
such as bath salts, plant food,
research chemicals, fertiliser
and cleaning fuid or, as already
mentioned, statements such as 'not
for human consumption' in order to
try to get around the law
Risk is increased if the drug is
combined with alcohol or other
drugs
If you have any concerns for a family
member, friend or neighbour who you
think may be using drugs call Frank on
0300 123 6600 for advice, or to report
any drug dealing in your area call
police on 101.
Results from the local election May 2014
New Councillors:
Benenden & Cranbrook: Cllr Tom Dawlings (Con)
replaced Francis Rook (Lib Dem)
Culverden: Cllr Don Sloan (Con) replaced
Len Price (Con)
Hawkhurst & Sandhurst: Cllr Nathan Gray (Con)
replaced John Cunningham (Con)
Southborough & High Brooms:
Cllr Graham Munn (Lab) replaced
the late Colin Bothwell (Con)
St Johns: Cllr Nasir Jamil (Con)
replaced Trevor Poile (Lib Dem)
Re-elected Councillors:
Brenchley and Horsmonden: Cllr Alan McDermott (Con)
Broadwater: Cllr Chris Woodward (Con)
Paddock Wood East: Cllr Bill Hills (Con)
Paddock Wood West: Cllr Elizabeth Thomas (Con)
Pantiles and St Marks: Cllr James Scholes (Con)
Park: Cllr Catherine Mayhew (Con)
Pembury: Cllr Paul Barrington-King (Con)
Sherwood: Cllr Bob Backhouse (Con)
Southborough North: Cllr Mike Rusbridge (Con)
Speldhurst & Bidborough: Cllr Julia Soyke (Con)
St James: Cllr David Neve (Lib Dem)
B
io
g
ra
p
h
ie
s

o
f th
e
n
e
w

c
o
u
n
c
illo
rs
w
ill
b
e
in
th
e
n
e
x
t
is
s
u
e
18
Tonbridge Castle Events 2014
For more details on the above
visit www.tmbc.gov.uk
FREE! Summer Band Concerts 3pm - 5pm
3 August - Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers
10 August - The Night Owls
17 August - East Peckham Silver Band
24 August - Bacchus Wind Orchestra
31 August - Maidstone Wind Symphony
Also FREE on 13 and 14 September 10am - 5pm
Medieval Fair which features, have-a-go archery, combat
displays, cookery demonstrations, jester and a hog roast
Dragon Boat Racing! (Sunday only)
Come and support local teams battling against the odds
to raise funds for local charities on the River Medway.
10035 TMBC Event advert 114x94.indd 1 19/05/2014 20:29
With Arrivas Shopper-hopper
ticket you can travel around
Royal Tunbridge Wells town
centre and out to Sainsburys
and the Spa Valley Railway for
just 1 a day.
It couldnt be simpler! Buy the ticket
on the frst bus that comes along and
then hop on and off any Arriva bus to
get between Royal Victoria Place, the
Town Hall, Tunbridge Wells Station,
the Pantiles and Sainsburys. Its
available anytime over the weekend
and after 9am, Monday to Friday.
There are plenty of buses to choose
from and the 281 town centre bus
link runs every 12 minutes during the
day and half-hourly in the evenings
and on Sundays.
Handy bus stops throughout the town
centre mean you wont need to walk
up the hill to get to the top of the town.
If you arrive by car, why not leave it
in one of the car parks and visit the
different parts of the town by bus.
For full details of the town centre bus
link and the Shopper-hopper ticket
visit arrivabus.co.uk/281 or call 0844
800 4411.
You can
travel on as
m
any Arriva
buses as you
like for the
day
19
Fowlers Park news
The council has been successful in defending a landmark
planning appeal in Hawkhurst.
The decision by the Planning Inspectorate, to refuse planning
permission for a 120 dwelling scheme at Fowlers Park, Hawkhurst
was made after a six day Public Inquiry in November/December 2013.
The decision to dismiss the appeal was based on a balance between
the impact of the scheme on the AONB and Hawkhurst, with the
inspectors view that the council did not have a fve year housing land
supply at the time of the inquiry. Importantly, the appeal also made it
clear that the council can still continue to pursue the emerging Site
Allocations Development Plan Document to provide locations for
the required Core Strategy housing target of 6,000 new dwellings,
although the inspector made it clear that the council must reconsider
its housing target in light of more recent government projections as
soon as possible.
The decision is also key in that it highlights the importance of sites
within the AONB and the need for high quality design refecting
historic settlement patterns. For more information, go to our website
where it can be found under the planning application search, the
application number being 13/00014/FUL.
Site Allocations Development Plan
Document an update
2013 Public
Consultation
Last year we consulted on a Site
Allocations Development Plan
Document (DPD) for Tunbridge
Wells and covered this in our spring
2013 edition. This is an important
planning document that puts
forward key sites for development
including new houses, business
premises, shops and other uses
as well as identifying areas that
should be protected for their wildlife,
landscape or recreation value. The
DPD covers the whole borough
and will help guide development
to 2026. We arranged a number of
exhibitions and workshops during
the consultation and received
more than 1,400 comments on
the proposals, so thank you to
everyone who participated.
Whats happened since
Weve been going through all the
comments that people made and have
been looking at how we may need to
change the DPD. Weve also been
having further discussions with key
organisations, such as Kent County
Council and the Environment Agency,
as well as undertaking further research
on particular issues, such as the future
demand for shops and leisure facilities.
The government has introduced a
number of changes to national planning
policy that we also need to refect in the
DPD.
Next steps
Leading on from this work, were now
preparing an amended version of the
DPD. Were planning to publish this
towards the end of this year along
with peoples comments, to show how
the comments have been considered
in changing the document. The plan
is that there will be another period of
public consultation on the amended
DPD, which would then be followed by
an examination. An examination is a
public debate into the DPD, looking at
the main issues and proposals, which
is led by an independent inspector
appointed by central government. The
inspector may invite people to appear
at the examination and people can
also put their case in writing. The
inspector will take account of all the
comments that people have made
and will consider how well the DPD
meets the needs of the borough and
fts with national planning guidance.
If approved by the inspector, we can
then publish the fnal DPD and use it to
guide future development.
There have been a number of changes
to the planning system over the last few
years and there are likely to be more
to come. Were continuing to monitor
these changes and see how they affect
the work were doing. Well publish
further updates in Local magazine this
autumn and winter. If you have any
questions or would like to be included
on our database of interested people
and organisations, then please e-mail
planning.policy@tunbridgewellsgov.uk
Whats happening in Fiveways,
Royal Tunbridge Wells?
Feedback from the
exhibition and consultation
held at the end of last
year, showed widespread
support for the proposed
shared space piazza.
The de-cluttering work
and enforcing the bus lane
restrictions has already had
a positive impact on the
area, and has also given an
indication of how this area
can be enhanced to provide
a distinctive community
space for our residents and visitors to Royal
Tunbridge Wells town centre.
Later this month, or in early July, the trees at
Fiveways will be pruned and the main paving
work starts in earnest in the late summer.
Photo by David Bartholomew
20
21
New Pay-As-You-Drive Car Club in Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells Borough
Council is launching a pilot car
club this summer in partnership
with Co-wheels. The first two
cars will be located along
Mount Pleasant Road.
The cars can be rented for 30 minutes
or for a whole day at a cost of 3.75
per hour, 17.50 per day and a
charge of just 13p per mile. Cars are
booked online or by phone. There
is a one-off joining fee of 25. As a
member, you only pay for what you
use (a minimum usage equivalent to
5 per month is required).
Each time you drive the car, you
pay an hourly rate for the duration
of the trip. This covers everything,
so you need never worry about fuel,
insurance, MOTs, servicing, cleaning
again.
Benefts
Low cost you pay by the hour
when you need it
Saves you money you dont pay
tax, insurance, garage bills
Parking you dont need a space or
a permit
Convenient more cars being
added across the UK
Greener you drive hybrid, electric
and low emission cars
If you use a car only
occasionally you might want
to think about joining the new
community car club. It could be
right for you.
For more information go to
co-wheels.org.uk
22
Dippers Wanted!
Do you know anyone who would be interested in casual
working hours to serve water from the Chalybeate Spring (in
the Pantiles) to members of the public?
The Spring opened for the 2014 summer season in April and will remain
open through to 30 September. Daily opening hours are 10.30am
3.30pm, Wednesday Sunday as well as Bank Holiday Mondays.
As the Dipper role involves lone working, staff need to be 18 years
or above. Dippers will be expected to dress in costume (costumes
provided!). We also need staff that are willing to work at the weekend.
For further information please e-mail:
stephanie.cavey@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
A soldiers life for me!
Ever thought of joining the
Army Reserve?
Last summer, Tunbridge Wells
Borough Council, the armed forces
and partner organisations in the
public, private and voluntary
sectors signed up to a local Armed
Forces Community Covenant.
The aim of the covenant is to
encourage communities to support
their local armed forces community and
to help integrate in-service and ex-
service personnel into community and
civilian life.
Our local unit is 579 Field Squadron
(Explosive Ordnance Disposal),
based at the Army Reserve Centre
in Tunbridge Wells. Lt Tom Flight, a
local boy, recounts his experiences of
joining up.
'My family moved to Tunbridge Wells
when I was one year old. I grew up in
the town and went to Bishops Down
Primary School before moving on
to Uplands Community College in
nearby Wadhurst. For a large part
of my youth I was a member of the
Boys' Brigade, a group run from my
local church, and I later moved on
to the cadet system. I had intended
to join the regular army at 16,
although I delayed this and at 20
decided to join what was then the
Territorial Army, now known as the
Army Reserve.
In January 2006 I joined my local
unit, 579 Field Squadron EOD (V),
as I wanted to try more adventurous
activities and be part of the
armed forces. At that time I was a
mechanic by trade and worked
in a garage, but my employer
was very supportive. I have now
joined the police force and they are
equally supportive as an employer.
My basic army training was intense
and packed in to as short a timeframe
as possible, but ultimately set the solid
foundations for the rest of my military
career. After basic training I was
initially selected for offcer training, an
opportunity I gracefully declined as I
felt it would be unwise to lead men on
operations without having deployed as
a soldier frst. Four years on, having
been promoted to a Lance Corporal
and deployed to Afghanistan to remove
explosive devices, I took up this
challenge and completed my offcer
training.
I now command a troop within 579
Field Squadron EOD. I get a great
deal of satisfaction and feel very proud
of my soldiers and my own individual
actions, and constantly look forward to
the next challenge.'
Lt Tom Flight, 579 Fd Sqn EOD
If you would like to fnd out more
about the Army Reserve and
how you can get involved, please
contact Captain Dudh Gurung at
the Army Reserve Centre
in Tunbridge Wells on
01892 556830
or take a look at the Armys
website: army.mod.uk/join/
23
We know from residents surveys that you dont like litter and
would like the council to do more to get people to change
their behaviour. So watch this space for news about a litter
enforcement campaign thats happening soon.
Earlier this year the councils cabinet gave the go-ahead to
a scheme that would see a specialist enforcement company
come into the borough for six months to crack down on
those responsible for littering and dog fouling. This additional
enforcement team will be able to issue Fixed Penalty Notices
which means a fne of 80 for someone whos caught
littering or not clearing up their dogs mess.
Similar schemes have been effective in other parts of the
country. Importantly theres no cost to Council Tax payers;
the scheme is self-funding and the benefts are a cleaner
borough for all.
WHO
LI KES
LITTER?
Tunbridge Wells has a new mayor
At the annual meeting
of the council on 11 June
councillors thanked out-
going mayor Councillor Dr
Ronen Basu for his hard
work during the past year
and elected Councillor
Julian Stanyer to succeed
him.
Councillor Basu had a
very busy year with a
varied programme of
engagements. From giving
a welcome to the Princess
of Waless Royal Regiment
(PWRR) as they marched
through Royal Tunbridge
Wells to attending the Mad
Hatters Tea Party at St
Marks primary school.
During his year of offce
Councillor Basu raised
money for Tunbridge Wells
Mental Health Resource
and, although the
donations are still being
counted, it seems likely
that the fnal total will be in
excess of 17,000.
New mayor Councillor
Stanyer is the ward
member for Speldhurst and
Bidborough. A chartered
surveyor, Julian and his wife
Anne, a chartered designer,
have lived in Langton Green
for the past 28 years. They
have three adult daughters
and one grand-daughter.
Julian will be trying hard
to match or even beat the
amount raised by Councillor
Basu as he sets out to raise
money for Burrswood, his
chosen charity for 201415.
Burrswood is in Julians
ward; he told Local about
his reasons for wanting to
support them:
I have been aware
of the wonderful work
of Burrswood as an
independent Christian
hospital and centre of
healing ever since I moved
to Tunbridge Wells.
It is absolutely unique. It
receives no government
funding and survives with
the help of 170 volunteers.
I believe it deserves more
fnancial support and I will
be doing all I can to support
its fund raising activities. I
also want to help the charity
make itself better known
to the wider community. I
am absolutely thrilled that
it is to be my charity for my
mayoral year.
Whats with this
litter problem?
Recently I parked in Granville Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells
and discovered litter strewn all over the road and pavement.
Action was needed, so I took one of the black refuse sacks
I carry in my car and picked up all the offending items. This
took ten minutes at the most!
Bag, nearly full, was deposited next to other bags by two
green recycle bins nearby. As I was calling into Gateway
about another matter I decided to bring the litter problem to
their attention. Result arrangements made to collect the
bags, empty the bins and leafet drop the relevant houses and
fats in the vicinity.
We can, all of us, do our bit to keep litter off the streets
and grass areas. We can carry a bag, plus some gloves if
possible, and pick up any litter we see. We dont need or want
blots on our attractive, well maintained grass landscapes,
pavements and road kerbs. Spot any litter offenders then
report them where possible or maybe just a friendly word
of request? We can each make a positive difference to our
community. Having lived in Royal Tunbridge Wells for over
four decades I really do love where I live, hence the concern
and action regarding litter around our town.
Brian Bissell
Sandhurst Road, Tunbridge Wells.
21 May 2014
24
Busy summer season ahead
at the Assembly Hall Theatre
Its full steam ahead
as the Assembly Hall
Theatre announces a
sizzling summer season
with something for
everyone.
There are an overwhelming
number of events to choose
from a fun and interactive
puppet show, classical
music, the SEEArt fair and
a Q&A with one of crickets
greatest all-rounders.
THE SOOTY SHOW
If you are looking for A real
treat for the children and
a dose of nostalgia for the
parents' The Stage, then
The Sooty Show is a must-
see. Direct from CITV, Sooty
and his friends will entertain
you with a spectacular mix
of magic, music and mess,
and theres also a chance to
meet Sooty after the show!
Joining the nation's favourite
bear are Sweep, Soo
and Sooty's TV partner
Richard Cadell who will
be attempting to keep Sooty
from getting up to mischief!
Boy, will he have his hands
full!
TUNBRIDGE WELLS
INTERNATIONAL
YOUNG CONCERT
ARTISTS
COMPETITION
Classical music lovers are
in for a treat as some of
the most promising young
classical musicians from
around the world come
together for the Tunbridge
Wells International Young
Concert Artists Competition
(TWIYCA).
The competition
has been
running for
nearly 30 years
and features
three sections
piano, strings
and wood. The
competition
attracts artists
from countries as far afeld
as Russia, South Korea
and Canada, but also gives
a platform to home-grown
talent.
With a reputation for
excellence, the competition
provides both a unique
platform for outstanding
young musicians at a critical
time in their personal and
professional development,
and the opportunity for local

audiences to enjoy
performances by highly
talented young musicians
from around the world.
Previous winners have
included Paul Lewis, who
is now an internationally
renowned pianist and
current President of the
competition, and soprano
Anne Sofe von Otter who
took part when there was
also a vocal section.
THE SEEArt FAIR
A four-day arts
event, the SEEArt
Fair, will be
bringing top quality
galleries and artists
to the Assembly
Hall Theatre. Thirty
galleries from
across the UK will
be showcasing
established and
emerging artists. The
SEEArt Fair will also exhibit
a selection of schools' art
projects and support local
charities.
AN EVENING WITH
SIR GARFIELD
SOBERS
Join the West Indian cricket
legend for a fascinating
evening of stories,

reminiscences and seldom
heard tales in an evening
that is a must-see for any
sports fan.
Sir Garfeld St Aubrun
Sobers, also known as Gary
or Garry Sobers, is a former
cricketer who played for the
West Indies between 1954
and 1974, and is widely
considered one of cricket's
greatest all-rounders of his
era.
He was knighted by the
Queen in recognition of his
outstanding contribution
to international cricket. In
1998, Barbados declared
him a National Hero. Sir
Garry, who played with
such distinction for both
Nottinghamshire and his
beloved West Indies,
whom he also captained, is
probably best remembered
for being the frst cricketer
ever in the history of the
game to hit six Sixes in six
consecutive balls in a single
over against Glamorgan at
Swansea, in 1968.
The Sooty Show Sun 6 July 11am 2.30pm Ages 3+
Tunbridge Wells International Young Concert Artists
Competition Sun 20 July 3pm
SEEArt Fair Thu 10 Sun 13 July seeartfair.co.uk
An Evening with Sir Garfeld Sobers Wed 13 Aug 7.30pm
Assembly Hall Theatre Crescent Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells,
Kent TN1 2LU
Box Offce: 01892 530613
or book online: assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
25
Summer 2014 is going to be packed with
family fun thanks to a very active calendar of
events from the Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art
Gallery. All the family favourites are back this
year, including the extremely popular Mini
Beast Safaris, as well as some new favourites
like Birds of a Feather at Dunorlan Park.
High Weald Walks (adults & children
over 11):
11am1pm
Saturday 7 June The Plants
Saturday 5 July Brakeybank Wood
Saturday 2 August Broadwater Warren
Saturday 20 September Newbars Wood
Young Nature Hunters (all ages) & Mini
Beast Safaris (over 6s only):
10:30am 11:30am (YNH) & 2.30pm 4pm
(Mini Beast over 6s only)
Thursday 7 August Grosvenor and Hilbert Park
Thursday 14 August Rusthall Common
Thursday 21 August Dunorlan Park
Thursday 28 August Tunbridge Wells Common
Summer Fun Holiday Happenings
(Every Tuesday and Wednesday
throughout August):
10:30am 12:30pm and 2pm 4pm
5 6 The First World War Centenary
12 13 Summer Holiday
19 20 Dinosaurs and Fossils
26 27 Hopping in Kent
Birds of a Feather Family Fun Day:
Saturday 30 August at Dunorlan Park,
11am4pm
S
U
M
M
E
R

F
U
N

C
A
L
E
N
D
A
R
For more information, or to book your place
on a Walk or Safari call: 01892 554171 or
email: museum@tunbridgewells.gov.uk
Dont forget to Find us on Facebook:
facebook.com/TunbridgeWellsMuseum or
follow along on Twitter: @TWartyculture and
@TWBC_Museum
26
Assembly Hall
Theatre
JULY
Sun 6 The Sooty Show
Sun 20 TWYICA Finals
AUGUST
Wed 13 Sir Garfeld Sobers
Wed 20 Bellowhead
SEPTEMBER
Wed 3 Rhythm of the Dance
Sat 13 Think Floyd
Thu 18 Simon & Garfunkel Story
Fri 19 Jane McDonald
Sat 20 Ha Ha Hood
Sun 21 Bay City Rollers / Les McKeown
Mon 22 Sat 27 Dreamboats and Miniskirts
OCTOBER
Thu 2 Stones in His Pockets
Fri 3 Purple Zeppelin
Sat 4 Thank You For The Music
Sun 5 RTWSO
Sun 5 Sir Chris Bonnington
Wed 8 Jasper Carrott Stand Up & Rock
Thu 9 Mnozil Brass
Fri 10 Seth Lakeman
Sat 11 ELO Again
Thu 16 Sat 18 The Dreamers
Tue 21 John Mayall
Wed 22 Show of Hands
Thu 23 Marty Wildes Rock & Roll Party
Sat 25 Magic of Motown
Sun 26 The Billy Fury Story
Mon 27 The Lindisfarne Story
Tue 28 Dave Gorman
Wed 29 10cc
Thu 30 Charlie Landsborough
What's the
secret lurking
behind this
door?
Come and explore more of Tunbridge
Wells lesser known treasures and
secret corners this September.
From Friday 12 September to Sunday
14 September 2014, Heritage Open
Days will provide you with FREE
access to many places of historic or
just plain quirky interest in the borough.
There are also a number of walks with
themes as varied as a drinking tour
(non-alcoholic variety) of the St Johns
area to First World War connections in Southborough, as well as
the ever-popular Commons and historic town centre tours. And for
frequent fyers, Heritage Open Days are launching a 'loyalty' bonus
prize for those managing to get to eight events.
Look out for the brochure containing all the details in August; log on to
heritageopendays.org.uk; fnd them on Twitter @Twellsheritage.
First
World War
Centenary
2014 marks 100 years
since the outbreak of the
First World War and the
council is supporting
local groups as they plan
a programme of activities
to commemorate this
important anniversary.
Among the events will be a
Commemorative Service on
Sunday 3 August at 3pm in
Calverley Grounds which will
be attended by the Mayor, and
a new exhibition in Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery. You can fnd
out about what else is taking place on the council website
tunbridgewells.gov.uk
27
See life more
clearly with our
new cataract
treatments
benenden hospital introduce
a choice of special lenses that
could do even more for you.
For more information call 01580 242 521 (quote TWL)
or visit us online at www.benendenhospital.org.uk
*Members who opt for a special lens only pay the additional cost incurred for the lens and additional treatment
as cataract treatment with the standard lens is covered by their membership.
The Benenden Hospital Trust is a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England, number 3454120. Registered charity
number 1065995. Registered ofce, The Benenden Hospital Trust, Goddards Green Road, Benenden, Cranbrook, Kent TN17 4AX
Pain free and efective treatment
benenden hospitals cataract surgery is pain free,
extremely efective, and takes a very short time
under spray applied, local anaesthetic. Youll walk
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thousands of people whove already had cataract
treatment with us.
In addition to our standard monofocal lens, we
now ofer a choice of multifocal and astigmatism
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dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The
correct lens will depend on your eyes and your
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options with you and explain what you can expect
from each type.
And theres no need to wait
You can be referred by your GP or Optician as
an NHS patient, self-paying patient or benenden
health member*. benenden hospital is a not for
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benenden hospital is a modern, award-winning
hospital with state-of-the-art facilities. Our
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surgery, gynaecology, hernia repair, orthopaedics,
urology, ENT, paediatrics, physiotherapy and
general medicine.
Ask your
GP or
Optician to
refer you
7679 Cataract-TWellsLOCAL-Feb (FULL).indd 1 30/01/2014 11:46