LOCAL

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council magazine www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk Autumn 2012 inside:

Olympic Torch Relay A weekend of fun Draft annual accounts 2011/12 Ice rink is back

Welcome to autumn Local!

Weve had a summer of sporting frenzy and lots for the nation to be proud of. Weve had quite a few things going on around the borough too! We were privileged to be a part of the Olympic Torch Relay in July, and we had a whole weekend of celebrations at the end of the month to mark the Olympics Opening Ceremony, including the popular Mela. Read what people thought and see some of the many photographs taken (p2225). Also in this edition, a summary of our annual report that shows how we are doing, and of particular interest, perhaps, is seeing how your Council Tax is being spent. The magazine is packed with features from recycling information to the latest exhibition at the museum. We have also included a couple of letters from residents who clearly love where they live. Nights are getting cooler now but its not all doom and gloom we are very excited to announce that the ice rink is coming back to Calverley Grounds this winter. We had tremendous feedback last year, so how could it not return! And finally, tickets are on sale now for our spectacular Christmas pantomime. See Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at the Assembly Hall Theatre from Friday 14 December Sunday 6 January. Find out how to book tickets (p18). If you have ideas for future editions, please get in touch. 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: Phone 01892 526121 E-mail Localemail@ tunbridgewells.gov.uk Post Lizzie Goodwin, Communications and Engagement Team Leader, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RS To advertise, contact Space Marketing Ltd, 01892 677742 or e-mail antoinettem@ 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.

5
Ice rink is back
Tunbridge Wells Borough has one of the best recycling rates in Kent. Thanks to the efforts of residents we currently recycle 47% of household waste.

8
Parks need friends

If you require Local magazine in large print or audio CD please phone

6 7

The recycling team are running a recycling awareness campaign throughout the year to further increase the success of the kerbside collection scheme and highlight top tips for householders to get the most from the service.

Recycling in the take competition borough For those schools unable to to getpart in theThe recycling there is still the opportunity involved.

As part of the campaign, primary schools in the borough have been invited to take part in a competition to have their artwork displayed on the boroughs recycling collection trucks. The competition is a great opportunity for children to learn about recycling and see their work in action, promoting the service throughout the borough. Cory Environmental, the boroughs waste contractor, has generously offered to award the winning school with a 500 prize. The competition closes on 1st October, with the winning designs unveiled later that month.

10
Stay safe this autumn

01892 554273

14 17
Our draft annual report How to save time Cut out and keep and money parking

team are visiting primary schools to provide educational talks to years 4 and 5 pupils. These interactive sessions cover the topics of recycling and littering and show the children how they can help the environment in their local area. Email recycling@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call Edwin Burgess on 01892 554216 for more information.

11

contact x. quick reference guide to your recycling service

For more information about the recycling campaign please

2225
Tunbridge Wells Celebrates 2012
3

Register to vote for your Police and Crime Commissioner

Tunbridge Wells in Watercolour exhibition

This autumn, Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery presents an exhibition of watercolour paintings of the town and its surrounding countryside, dating from the 1700s to the present day.
Tunbridge Wells in Watercolour highlights the beauty of the often under-valued medium of watercolour, giving a fascinating insight into Tunbridge Wells development from early tourist resort to thriving commercial centre and desirable residential address. The exhibition focuses on the work of a dozen key artists, each of whom had their own distinct reasons for working in watercolour, and for choosing to paint views of Tunbridge Wells. Thomas Loggan, for example, painted souvenir images of The Pantiles featuring local celebrities in the 1700s, to sell as souvenirs. Charles Tattershall Dodd recorded local landmarks to be reproduced in town guidebooks in the 1800s, and in the 1900s Frederick Burton painted watercolour scenes which would ultimately become postcard illustrations. Many artists simply used watercolour because of its versatility and its ease of use for painting outdoors. Tunbridge Wells in Watercolour runs from Saturday 8 September to Saturday 3 November at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery. Admission is free. For more information about our temporary exhibitions programme please visit www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org

Building works at Tunbridge Wells Museum, Library & Art Gallery

Funding to install a lift and provide public toilets at the Museum, Library and Art Gallery building in the centre of Royal Tunbridge Wells was approved in June 2012. Subject to planning consent, building works will start in the autumn with an expected completion date of early 2013. The Museum, Library and Art Gallery is a popular facility in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells. The new lift and public toilets will greatly enhance services for our visitors. The building houses the Kent County Council Library (KCC) alongside Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery, which is run by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (TWBC). The project is funded by KCC and TWBC with additional funding raised from donations given by visitors to Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery. Although there will be some disruption to services while works take place, we hope to keep this to a minimum. If you are planning a visit to the library or museum, please check the notice boards in the building or visit our websites for further details: www.tunbridgewellsmuseum.org www.kent.gov.uk/libraries

New website coming soon

Keep an eye on www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk this autumn and you might just find yourself clicking through to a trial version of the Councils new website. Designed to be more accessible and easier to find your way around than our current site, youll find your most popular tasks, like bin collection days or car parks, just a click away from our new homepage. Well be running the new design at the same time as our existing one and well be asking for your feedback about what works well and what could still be improved.
4

Tunbridge Wells at Christmas

#RTWXmas

Real ice rink returns to Calverley Grounds due to popular demand

Last Christmas over 26,000 skaters took to the ice. Adults and children of all ages and abilities enjoyed a spin on the open-air rink, set in the beautifully decorated Calverley Grounds. Were delighted that this year the ice rink is not only returning, but its going to be even bigger! Also new this year families and children can have a magical visit to Father Christmas in his traditional Christmas log cabin overlooking the ice rink. Councillor Jane March, Cabinet member with responsibility for Tourism, Leisure and Economic Development is also delighted and comments: The ice rink will bring Christmas fun into Tunbridge Wells for families, friends and colleagues. Bigger than last year, the rink will be the ideal place to start your festive celebrations with fresh air and the beautiful backdrop of Calverley Grounds, one of our finest parks. What a healthy start to Christmas! Fitness, fun and a boost for local retailers. I hope you enjoy your visit to the ice rink.

Opening Times:
Friday 23 November 2012 Monday 7 January 2013 (closed on Christmas Day). Main skating sessions will last for one hour including time to fit your skates, expect to have approximately 50 minutes on the ice. Parent & Toddler sessions will last for 30 minutes. For details on Father Christmas visit times please visit www. tunbridgewellsatchristmas. com

Ticket Prices:
Peak admission skating sessions are Saturday and Sunday all day and weekdays from Monday 17 December to Monday 7 January. Adult tickets from 9.50, Child tickets from 7.50. Concessions, group rates and family tickets available. Skate hire is included in the ticket price. Tickets to Father Christmas will be 9.50 per child (one free adult per paying child) this includes one photograph and a gift for the child.

Booking:
Last year peak skating sessions were extremely popular, especially during the holiday period, so advance booking is highly recommended. Tickets for both the ice rink and Father Christmas can be purchased online at www. tunbridgewellsatchristmas. com or from the Assembly Hall Theatre in person or by calling 01892 554645. Group and wheelchair bookings can be made by calling 01892 554173.

Supported by

We want all your plastic bottles

Tunbridge Wells borough has one of the best recycling rates in Kent. Thanks to the efforts of residents we currently recycle 47% of household waste.
The recycling team is running a recycling awareness campaign throughout the year to further increase the success of the kerbside collection scheme and highlight top tips for householders to get the most from the service. We now collect all plastic bottles even the tops, but please put them in separately. As part of the campaign, primary schools in the borough have been invited to take part in a competition to have their artwork displayed on the boroughs recycling collection trucks. Its a great opportunity for children to learn about recycling and see their work in action, promoting the service throughout the borough. Cory Environmental, our waste contractor, has generously offered to award 500 to the winning school. The competition closes on 1 October, with the winning designs unveiled later that month. We are also visiting primary schools to provide educational talks to years 4 and 5 pupils. These interactive sessions cover the topics of recycling and littering and show the children how they can help the environment in their local area. E-mail recycling@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call Edwin Burgess on 01892 554216 for more information.

A quick reference guide to your recycling service

Sustainable Transport
Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is part of the New Ways 2 Work initiative, alongside Kent County Council, which is open to all businesses and organisations within Kent.

ITS TIME To rEGISTEr

For the first time ever, residents of Tunbridge Wells borough will be able to elect a Police and Crime Commissioner for Kent on 15 November.
To ensure your right to vote you need to be registered on the Electoral Roll. By now every household should have received a registration form. If you havent, please contact us. The form is preprinted with the current details we hold. If there are no changes to this information, you can register by phone, internet or by text using the guidance notes with the form. Any amendments should be handwritten on the form and must be sent back to us by 8 October.

BENEFITS
Benefits include discounted weekly tickets on Arriva and Stagecoach buses and help and advice with travel planning from Kent County Council.

Role of the Police and Crime Commissioner

Responsible for reducing crime and disorder in Kent. Represents the public interest in policing and crime reduction in Kent. Has the power to hold the Chief Constable to account for their performance. Will be elected for a four-yearly term. Is directly accountable to residents.

FIND A BUDDY
Kent Journey Share is a free, Kent-wide database which links drivers, passengers, walkers, cyclists and taxi users who make similar journeys and therefore can potentially find a buddy to share their journey. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council launched a Car Share Scheme for Council staff earlier this year. A private liftshare group was created which can link up with other private groups. Since its launch, 7% of staff have registered.

Call our helpline on 01892 554025 if you need assistance with voter registration. For more information on Police and Crime Commissioners go to www.homeoffice.gov.uk/police/ police-crime-commissioners

Liftshare Week is happening between 1 and 5 October this year to encourage the public to try car sharing.
Car sharing saves money, reduces congestion, pollution and parking pressures. For more information about New Ways 2 Work contact

Make Kent Quicker

Many thanks for your positive response to the Make Kent Quicker campaign which we highlighted in the last edition of Local. So far, nearly 2,500 borough residents and businesses have registered their interest in getting improved broadband speeds. The Make Kent Quicker campaign is still continuing so, if you have not done so already, please register via the link below and encourage others to do the same.

www.sustainability@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

www.makekentquicker.com
7

PARKS NEED FRIENDS

Current friends groups are:

Dunorlan Park www.friendsofdunorlanpark.org.uk The Grove www.friendsofthegrove.com Woodbury Park Cemetery www.fwpc.org.uk Grosvenor and Hilbert www.fogh.org.uk Calverley Grounds a new group, information available in Calverley Grounds Caf. A website is coming soon Farmcombe/Julian Hewitt no current website

New friends groups will shortly be set up at:

Hawkenbury Recreation Ground St Johns Recreation Ground The Cemetery, Kent and Sussex Crematorium

We are very fortunate that throughout our borough we have many friends groups.

What are friends groups?

They are local residents who have got together to work with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and our Parks Team. The groups are non-political and non-profit and they support the maintenance and wellbeing of our parks and open spaces. The volunteers also work with us to write management/action plans, achieve Green Flags, help with fundraising and applying for improvement grants, and assist with planting schemes. Other activities range from putting on local events (such as Jubilee Celebrations) to monitoring wildlife species, researching the history of the park, and community projects with organisations such as Kent High Weald Partnership (hedge laying, wood clearances and tree planting).
8

The friends groups instil a sense of community and achievement and have lots of fun.

So, are you interested in becoming a friend?

They are always looking for new members of all ages, whether you just want a regular newsletter to keep you informed of whats going on or, if being more hands-on is your thing, youll be most welcome.

Dont take our word for it, have a look at their websites and see the fantastic work they heard do and how you can get Weve at we y th involved. recentl intained a have m en Flag re our G Dunorlan for status he Grove rk, T ark Pa bury P d Wood tery. an Ceme

WS NE

With he Grosveno lp from r an friends gro d Hilbert up, the Council h as secure d first round fun din from the L g of 148k o This is pa ttery Fund. rt of a 2.5 m project.

Thinking of starting or running a small business?

Take advantage of our FREE* advice clinic
Business viability Help with business planning Company formation Growing your business Finance and alternatives for funding Complying with business regulations

Interested? Contact Hem on 01892 554277

*This service is provided by TWBC in conjunction with Enterprise First

For business queries contact:

Economic Development Team, Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1RS www.business@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

THEATRE PRESENTS...

Funding Opportunity
Kent County Council (KCC) Members have been allocated 37,600 to award as one-off grants in 2012/13 for small capital projects in the Tunbridge Wells district. Projects must demonstrate a community benefit.
Applications can be made by properly constituted organisations with their own bank account, for example voluntary and community groups, parish/town councils, societies and charities. Grants are to be used to cover capital costs, such as those involved in buying, creating or significantly renovating capital assets (land, buildings, plant, machinery, equipment, vehicles, etc) but cannot pay for running costs associated with a project, including staff payments.

Directed by John Martin Book, Music & Lyrics by Piers Chater Robinson Based on the novel by J.M. Barrie Wed 12 Dec - Tue 1 Jan Box Ofce: 01892 678 678 | www.trinitytheatre.net
Supported by
A professional production by arrangement with International Theatre and Music Limited www.peterpanthemusical.com

If you have a project you would like to put forward for consideration please contact Lonie Harrington, Community Engagement Officer Tunbridge Wells on 01622 694691 or e-mail leonie.harrington@kent.gov.uk no later than 14 October 2012. Visit www.kent.gov.uk to find contact details for your local Member.
9

Its almost that time of year when the clocks go back and this means darker evenings and, of course, Halloween and Bonfire Night. Make sure you stay safe this autumn with some timely advice from the Community Safety Unit (CSU).
It is important to be prepared for it to get darker much earlier...

Be bright, cycle

Take extra care

right when cycling, make sure your bike has the correct lights. Remember that it is against the law to cycle at night without lights and reflectors, so make sure theyre working. crossing roads plan your route along welllit roads with pavements wherever possible. Did you know the CCTV safety car was launched on 15 August and is patrolling schools near you now. The CCTV safety car has already been to Paddock Wood, Cranbrook and Hawkhurst prior to launch! Look out for the silver car on its travels. For more information visit www.kent.police.uk/ advice/seasonal_advice/autumn.html Why not sign up to the free monthly CSU Newsletter? The first 50 people to e-mail Sorry, no csunews@tunbridgewellscsu. trick or tre org.uk will receive a reflective at TWITA wristband through the post!

Be safe, be seen

Halloween costumes can be dark, so wear something light or reflective to help you be seen by other road users. Carry a torch, and dont forget that its just as important that you can be seen during the day, as visibility can still be poor.

Halloween is quickly followed by Bonfire Night. Enjoy yourself, but remain safe. Attend organised firework displays and if youre planning on hosting a fireworks party be safe, not sorry and keep it free from accidents by following the Fireworks Code.

AND REMEMBER, respect peoples wishes if there is a notice or poster asking you not to call, then please dont. Dont want trick or treaters? Posters can be downloaded from our website: www.tunbridgewellscsu.org.uk, copies are also available at the Gateway in Royal Tunbridge Wells and the Weald Information Centre in Cranbrook.
10

I will not open my door to you

PArkING in royal Tunbridge Wells

Season tickets save time and money
From September 2012, customers can buy annual season tickets for one of eight car parks in central Royal Tunbridge Wells. A season ticket is a convenient and economical choice if you use one of our car parks regularly. Annually, quarterly or monthly choose the length of time to suit you. If you are one of the towns commuters, Great Hall is the ideal place to park. Less than two minutes from the station and at 850 for a yearly season ticket, you could save over 1,550!

Over-indulged this summer?

Why not join our free 10-week adult weight loss programme to get you back on track...
Southborough: Christ Church, Prospect Road Thursday between 6.308pm, starting 4 October. Town Centre: Christ Church, High Street, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1UT Thursday between 12.30pm, starting 11 October. Other programmes running in the Lamberhurst and St Marks areas. One participant said of the programme I have enjoyed it all and greatly benefited from every aspect.
Did you know that a gr and total of 165 st one has been lost by those complet ing the programm e?

How much you could save?

Use our online calculator at www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk/ carparkseasontickets or scan the QR code below. TIP: Always know when your parking session is about to end by choosing reminder texts. No need to hurry back to your vehicle top up from wherever you are.

Look out for our interview with a member of the Weight For It! programme in the winter edition to hear about their experiences and how the programme has made a difference to their life! Do you have a child aged 713 and are worried about their weight? The MEND programme is coming to Rusthall on September 12, running every Wednesday evening at the United Reformed Church. Both the MEND and Weight For It! programmes are coordinated by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, in partnership with NHS West Kent. For more information and to book, please call the Communities and Health Team on 01892 554411 or e-mail health@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Pay to park using your mobile phone

Choose from one of the following ways to register and pay:
Text REG and your number plate to:

65565

or call

01892 246246

Or use apps and mobile web at: paybyphone.co.uk Location number (eg 4444)
Or pay using these methods:
In association with:
NFC

Come to the Tunbridge Wells Farmers Market

Enjoy our local produce from homemade cakes to rare breed meats! Find us in Civic Way, outside the Town Hall Open between 9am and 2pm Saturday 13 and 27 October Saturday 10 and 24 November

For accessibility information please visit

11

dge Energy Experts Wells Borough Residents in Hawkhurst, has teamedand Cranbrook up with Paddock Wood have been offered free all e Energy to offer homethe energy advice visits through Energy Experts Scheme. ts FREE cavity wall The scheme, a partnership between Tunbridge Wells regardless insulation Borough Council and Climate Energy, provided residents with energy saving cial situation** advice and a free survey to establish
whether their property was suitable for cavity wall and loft insulation. Due to funding provided by the major energy suppliers, the scheme was able to offer cavity and loft insulation

installing loft and cavity ulation.* Tunbridge Wells

Dont Miss Out!

Free insulation is open to all homeowners and private landlords regardless of your financial situation, but the offer will only be 16 available for referrals a few in the first months. month

0800 358 669 to find out more or Cavity are two of the most cost effective measures ook acanand loft insulationobligation survey. that free no be taken to reduce household energy waste; youll benefit from a warmer home and save on energy bills. www.tunbridgewells.gov.uk
at the Camden Centre, Market Square, Royal Tunbridge Wells
with the musical talents of Chris Mannion on the organ on the fourth Thursday of the month from 2.30-5pm. Entry is just 2.50 and includes refreshments.

fitted for free. For those opting for a home visit, water saving tips and basic measures, such as hippos and shower timers, were also provided courtesy of South East Water.

For more information about the funding available to insulate your property ahead of the winter please contact the Housing Renewal Team on 01892 554241.

om The Energy Saving Trust about savings following insulation of energy re subject to technical survey and size of property. Most properties up to and including a standard three bed house will qualify. This offer does not pping up lofts with existing insulation over 60mm.

The Tea Dance

You are invited to attend

TBW2-June12

Reassuringly tasty, nutritious and dependable.

24/05/2012 09:43:25

Thursday 27 September : Thursday 25 October : Thursday 22 November

No need to book for the Tea Dance, there is plenty of space, so bring your friends and remember, keep dancing! If you have problems getting out and about then contact Dial 2 Drive on 01892 553123 to become a member and access the volunteer driver scheme.
Run by VAWK in partnership with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. For more information please contact VAWK:

Roast Chicken Breast with Stuffing and vegetables 3.95

Weve been taking care of mealtimes for over 21 years, and our range of 250 frozen meals cover all mealtimes and appetites. Simply take a look at our FREE brochure and order over the phone, or online. MEALS FROM 2.95

FREE
DELIVERY

01892 530330

For your FREE brochure call wiltshirefarmfoods.com

01732 860 018

12
WFF - 114mm x 94mm_Portrait_Tunbridge Wells_Easier Life.indd 1

21/08/2012 12:00

Assistance to help with empty properties

If your property has been vacant for more than six months then financial help could be available to help renovate, improve or convert long term empty properties.

You may qualify for:

1 Tunbridge Wells Borough Councils interest-free loan up to 20,000 depending on the number of bedrooms, which is repayable on the sale of the property. The loan is also conditional on making the property available to rent for five years and you agree to take tenants from the Housing Register. 2 Kent County Council initiatives include the No Use Empty Loans which are interest-free loans and are repayable within three years or when the property is sold. 3 Kent County Council also offers the Affordable Homes Project where the owner would receive an interest-free loan and properties are then leased to a partner Housing Association for use as affordable housing for an agreed period loan to be repaid within three years. To find out more about these different schemes and whether or not you may be eligible for any assistance, please call the Housing Renewal Team at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council on 01892 554241.

Housing improvements made affordable

Decent Homes Assistance
Many homes suffer from excess cold due to poor heating, lack of insulation, poor quality windows and doors. Installing or improving heating systems, and providing adequate loft and cavity wall insulation will improve thermal efficiency and reduce the number of homes affected by fuel poverty. Financial assistance is available for vulnerable homeowners in receipt of qualifying income-related benefits to carry out essential repairs or improvements such as rewiring, upgrading heating/replacing boilers, replacing windows and doors or dealing with damp problems.

Disabled Facilities Grants

Do you need help with adapting your home? Do you struggle to get in and out of the bath, or have difficulty getting up and down the stairs?
Whether you are a homeowner or the tenant of the property, Disabled Facilities Grants are available to provide facilities and adaptations to help a disabled person to live as independently and comfortably as possible. If this is you, an Occupational Therapist will visit you at home to assess your needs, and if recommendations can be made for adaptations to your property then you may be eligible for financial assistance from the Council to fund these works.

DID yOU KNOW?

The Tunbridge Wells Housing Condition Survey 2010 identified 1,347 properties occupied by home-owners in fuel poverty (fuel poverty exists when more than 10% of a households income is needed to keep the home warm).

13

DRAFT SUMMARy STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS FOR 2011/12

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has the sixth lowest Council Tax in England and Wales (excluding special expenses) and has a history of strong financial management. The Audit Commission stated in its 2010/11 Governance Report that we have sound arrangements for financial control, effective and forward looking financial planning, proper arrangements for securing financial resilience and good governance. This robust financial control has continued throughout 2011/12.

Revenue Outturn for 2011/12 with comparator years

Income & Expenditure

Directorates Chief Executive Change & Communities Regeneration & Sustainability Net Cost of Services Net Interest Receivable Parish Council Precepts Government Grants Council Tax Income Transfers to/(from) Reserves Asset Depreciation/Impairment Adjustments Fully Financed

2010/11 Actual 000s 2,420 8,430 4,039 14,889 (823) 1,600 (7,368) (8,097) (2,342) 2,142 0

2011/12 Actual 000s 2,235 7,816 4,013 14,064 (606) 1,569 (6,633) (8,227) (944) 777 0

2012/13 Budget 000s 2,243 8,420 3,592 14,255 (508) 1,668 (6,194) (8,501) (719) 0 0

The full statement of accounts for 2011/12 is currently being audited and will be approved in September. However, the draft accounts are available (see website under Council Finances) and show that the Councils net cost of services for the year was just over 14 million. This was 17,000 under the budget meaning that despite a very difficult year for parking and crematorium income, efficiency savings were made in the year to offset these shortfalls. The table opposite shows that the net cost of providing your services fell by 823,000 between 2010/11 and 2011/12. In real terms however, the saving was much greater as if you add inflation to the 2010/11 cost and compare with the 2011/12 actual outturn, there was a real saving of 1.6 million. Similarly, although the 2012/13 budget opposite shows an increase of 189,000 when compared with the actual in 2011/12, it does not include the considerable effects of inflation. Again, if the 2011/12 actual costs are inflated to 2012/13 prices and compared with the budget for 2012/13, it shows a further saving of 134,000. Thus far, these savings have been achieved without compromising service. Contracts have been re-tendered, partnership agreements have been entered into, efficiencies have been made and assets used to better effect. The Council is constantly pursuing productivity and efficiency, whilst maintaining service innovation.

This is against a backdrop of declining government grants and reduced interest available from investing reserves. The table above shows grants reducing by 735,000 in 2011/12 and a further 439,000 in 2012/13. In real terms, including the effect of inflation, this is the equivalent of a fall in grant of 1.1 million in 2011/12 and a further 0.6 million in 2012/13. There is also the threat of further government grant cuts on the horizon and the Council is trying hard to collect the views of the people of the borough so that should further cuts be delivered, priorities for where to retain services or perhaps release services are clearly understood.

ocated We all o support 00 t 540,0 ommunity the c sector and ary volunt and parish town ncils cou
14

We brought 110 properties up to Decent Homes standard in 2011/12 and brought 15 empty properties back into use as a result of Council activity

We provide d an outdoor Ch ristmas ice rink in C alverley Grounds w hich saw ov er 26,000 peo ple and receive skating d feedback fr positive om visitors and local businesses

Balance Sheet
The Council does have a very strong asset base as is shown on the Balance Sheet. There are 77 million of property, plant and equipment, heritage and software assets held by the Council that can be utilised. The challenge is to use them to their very best effect in delivering your services. The Council also has over 20 million in reserves that were largely created when the Council sold its housing stock to the Town and Country Housing Group. These are either invested, the interest supporting the revenue budget, or are put to use creating new capital assets or delivering new initiatives, rather than just supporting existing services until they run out.

Balance Sheet
Council Assets Cash & Cash Equivalents Investments Borrowing Money Owed to the Council Money Owed by the Council Capital Grants Receipts in Advance Net Assets General Fund Other Usable Reserves Unusable Reserves

2011/12 000s 77,029 7,158 35,421 (17,080) 3,829 (47,177) (1,957) 57,223 13,386 7,298 36,539 57,223

ported We sup holds to se 81 hou e to live tinu eir con tly in th penden ugh the inde thro homes of Disabled n provisio s Grants in Facilitie 11/12 20

Total Reserves

Capital Expenditure for 2011/12

The Council spent 1.1 million on new capital investments in the year. There was a wide range of projects as can be seen below.

Capital Expenditure
IT systems new and upgraded Disabled Facilities Grants Housing Renewal Grants Childrens Play Areas Community and Heritage Grants Other small projects Total capital investment Financed by: Sale of Assets Government Grants External and Developer Contributions Council Reserves Total financing

2011/12 000s 187 442 87 108 109 156 1,089 366 442 199 82 1,089

45,000 was spent refurbishing the play area at St Johns Recreation Ground

as 63,000 w ng nt creati spe l play the natura orlan un area for D nger Parks you visitors

A grant o 25,000 f presente was d Trinity Th to the eatre for the insta ll their digit ation of al cinem a infrastru cture

It can be seen that these capital initiatives were funded mainly from the sale of surplus Council assets or from external or developer contributions. The main exception is the 442,000 spent on disabled facilities grants, all of which was funded by a government grant as the Council is obliged to provide these grants based upon need.

15

Council Tax and Business Rates Collection

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council collects Council Tax on behalf of Kent County Council, the Kent Police Authority, Kent Fire & Rescue and the parishes in addition to the amount it collects for itself. An average property in the borough paid 1,434.45 for the year 2011/12 broken down as follows:

Council Tax Breakdown

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Kent Police Authority Kent Fire & Rescue Parishes Kent County Council Total

s 145.04 138.68 67.95 35.00 1,047.78 1,434.45

%age 10% 10% 5% 2% 73% 100%

a We saw crime in n reductio e end of % at th from of 9 012 March 2 f the at o th s year previou

The cost per average household per day is 3.93:

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council 39p
This means that the cost per average household per day is 3.93:

We work ed Kent Co with unty Council to impro ve rural bro adband connecti on

Kent County Council 2.87

The accounts below show that the Council billed over 65 million in the year and had to make provision for only 301,000 not to be recovered. This shows that the Council recovers over 99% of the Council Tax due. Our Revenues and Benefits team work incredibly hard to achieve this recovery rate and pursue all debts wherever possible.

Kent Police Authority 38p Kent Fire & Rescue 19p Parishes 10p

Collection Fund
Collection Fund
Balance 1 April 2011 Income from Council Tax Bad & Doubtful Debts Provision Total Income Available Apportionment of Council Tax Kent County Council Kent Police Authority Kent Fire & Rescue Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Total Paid Balance 31 March 2012 (47,967) (6,348) (3,111) (8,227) (65,653) 343 2011/12 000s 812 65,485 (301) 65,996

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council provides all of its many services: refuse collection, parks, the Assembly Hall Theatre, the museum, sports centres, housing assistance, community support, eg TN2 on the Sherwood estate, to name but a few, all for just 39p per day per household.

16

tor d visi prove ation to We im inform gh guide area throu isit V e th e he ebsit ting t upda Wells w new the ridge Tunb eveloped e Wells and d Tunbridg p Visit mobile ap

We re-launched the Love Where We Live awards. The celebratory evening was held in the Assembly Hall Theatre and recognised the unique and extraordinary things people have done in the community

Help set the budget for 2013/14

The Council aims to set a balanced budget that reflects the services you want, whilst fulfilling its statutory obligations. The austerity programme being rolled out across the country has already delivered deep cuts to local government funding and this is likely to continue. We need your help to set the priorities for our discretionary services.

eeded We exc et for our targ n the nt o enrolme Weight y Health e. Adults rogramm ximately P ro lost app kilos 800 t in weigh

We helped to bring the Morrisons supermarket site in Royal Tunbridge Wells back into use. The site reopened for business in April 2012

Get in touch
Please e-mail your views to accounts@tunbridgewells. gov.uk or write to Jane Fineman Financial Services Manager Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Town Hall Royal Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1RS

We ran a successful Royal Tunbridge Wells in Bloom campaign, bringing business and local groups together to improve the appearance of the town centre

17

An interview with
As the new Chairman of Scrutiny, Local magazine spoke to Cllr Catherine Mayhew about what she wants to achieve in the role, the priorities for the year ahead and how residents and businesses can get involved

What is Overview and Scrutiny and how does it work at the Council?
Its a means of back-bench councillors telling us what is affecting residents and giving the public an opportunity to influence the Councils policy. Scrutiny is a conduit for residents views looking back, its also our sense check to see if we made a difference. For me, its important that we know how people are thinking and feeling so they can influence our work before the strategy has been decided.

On that point, what are the work areas for this year?
The committee is concentrating on some

overarching issues and also some very focused issues. Ill give you a couple of examples. Looking into what the cultural offering is in Tunbridge Wells is a big piece of work for us. We want to know if there is a need to enhance what we currently have; if so, how and with what? What I mean by this is, do we represent all music tastes or is another under-represented? The cultural vibrancy of the town

Fri 14 Dec Sun 6 Jan

A spectacular pantomime for Christmas 2012 Snow White is a classic fairytale fantasy, jam-packed with music and dance, fun and laughter, a troubled princess, a seriously wicked stepmother, a handsome prince and seven delightful dwarfs! Book online www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk phone 01892 530613 or visit the Box Office.
18

is important, so we need to look at how we focus the budget for this area. A great example of the process working from the bottom up and setting our agenda is the work we are doing in Southborough. A group of residents spoke to their local councillor about dog fouling in the area and we have now added this to our programme. I have deliberately not set a full work programme for the year as I want residents to be involved. I very much see our work evolving.

every two months and residents are welcome to attend and if they wish to speak, they should register this beforehand with Ben, by e-mail Scrutiny@ tunbridgewells.gov.uk or telephone 01892 554111. In between meetings, councillors work on projects called task and finish groups which sees them doing fieldwork and research around the borough. Those task and finish groups then report back to the committee.

your GP to your GP to refer you refer you

Ask

Need a Hip or Knee Replacement? Prompt, high-quality treatment is right on your doorstep
No need to travel far for high-quality hip and knee replacements. Kent based Benenden Hospital offers rapid access to private or self-funded For more patients. NHS funded operations information scan are also available. We offer highly-experienced consultants, advanced operating theatres, compassionate nursing staff and very low infection rates.
call 01580 242 576 (quoting TWBC) www.benendenhospital.org.uk

What can Overview and Scrutiny do for residents?

We can listen to them and persuade Cabinet to include residents concerns in their policies. We can also question Cabinet members to see if they have achieved what they set out to.

As a Council we want to engage with residents more, is there anything else residents can do to get involved?
Id encourage residents to contact their local councillors, or me, with ideas about what the Council should be doing or what we are failing to do. We have just set up a Twitter account to engage more with the public, so if you have an account you can follow us at TWBC_Scrutiny.

How frequently do meetings take place?

The committee meets

Residents Survey 2012

During September, a sample of the boroughs residents had the opportunity to have their say about their local area, access to services and levels of satisfaction with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council by taking part in our Residents Survey. Around 1,000 households were selected from across the borough to take part in the survey. An independent research company, BMG Research, travelled around the borough knocking on doors (mainly evenings and weekends) to spend 15 20 minutes with residents to find out their views. The results of the survey are a valuable tool for the Council and those agencies we work in partnership with. It also helps to find out how we are performing, in comparison to other districts in the South East and nationally. So a big thank you to those who took part and we will publish the key findings from the survey in a future edition of Local.
19

Do you know that...

...Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has an office in Cranbrook to meet the needs of our customers in the eastern end of the borough? The Weald Information Centre, run jointly with Cranbrook & Sissinghurst Parish Council, is located at The Old Fire Station, Stone Street. Council services available include: Benefit Advice help at hand to assist you with your application and problem solve when things dont go so smoothly; you can also report benefit fraud. Planning book pre application appointments, look up planning applications, tree preservation orders, report planning breaches and much more Housing help and advice regarding housing issues. Streetscene report missed bin or box collections, fly tipping, abandoned vehicles and graffiti. You can also find out more about recycling, refuse collections and street cleaning.

Parking you are able to pay your parking penalties online. Free Internet access Environmental Services report issues with food hygiene, noise nuisance and animal welfare. Tourism help and advice regarding local places to visit. B & B booking service is also available.

Weald Information Centre

Porters Wood Playing Field

is close to Brenchley village and Kent High Weald Partnership (KHWP) worked with volunteers from the local community to both improve it for wildlife and help develop a natural play trail within. The project was funded by Brenchley Parish Council, and Councillor Jane March helped out on the volunteering days, and came to the launch event.

Forest Schools

KHWP are pioneering a programme of forest skills in the woodlands around Tunbridge Wells. These have included short sessions with Sherwood Park Primary at Sherwood Lake, as well as a threeday programme with local schools at Bedgebury Pinetum. Children learn shelter building, how to safely build and light a fire, outdoor cooking and so on.

Advice surgeries:
Planning: Alternate Mondays 9am12.30pm. An appointment is needed. Contact the Planning Department on 01892 526121 or call in to The Weald Information Centre to book. Housing: Friday 10am12 noon. Drop-in, no appointment is necessary. Representatives from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council Housing Needs Team and Town & Country Housing Group. The Weald Information Centre is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

20

Dear Local magazine,

During this time of austerity, its refreshing to see the small businesses in the tiny village of Sandhurst having undergone tremendous face lifts during the past year. To highlight some examples...The Swan Pub has been completely refurbished, Sandhurst Farmshop has been repainted and has new signage and display area, the garage has been completely revamped, the general store has been rebranded and has a new store front and the owners have also opened a separate Garden/DIY store adjacent to the grocery shop. A beauty studio has opened, to replace an empty building. The Reception Teacher at the primary school has built

an amazing new outdoor play area for her class, which is truly remarkable, especially as everything was donated by local businesses. The children of Sandhurst are very lucky! Finally, several improvements have been made to our Village Hall a newly-refurbished kitchen with double oven and all modern amenities has been a tremendous boost to the village and now makes a great party venue. This coupled with the new houses at Old Orchard and very popular new allotments make Sandhurst a really special place to live. I have always had family connections to Sandhurst, as my father was born here. I was brought up in Hawkhurst although I moved to Sandhurst about 16 years ago. I feel very proud of our small village and this goes to prove that not all villages are in decline and there are still some that are regenerating. It is a pleasure to live here and I hope that you find time to come and visit Sandhurst and not just pass through! Kind regards, Julie Griggs, resident

Dear Local magazine,

Diamond Jubilee in Goudhurst Many people will have seen the striking model Houses of Parliament installed on the Goudhurst Village Pond during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. There was much more going on in the parish over four days, but perhaps not many residents of the borough know of the significance of the tree planted to commemorate the occasion for much, much, much longer. Goudhurst Parish were indeed fortunate in securing an oak sapling, grown from one of several ancient oak trees in Windsor Great Park, courtesy of the Crown Estates. It is understood that fewer than a dozen of these saplings were released for the occasion of the Queens Diamond Jubilee. These ancient oaks in the Windsor Great Park are over one thousand years old. To put this in perspective, the sapling could be only the eighth generation since the Ice Age! They are biologically unique, and William the Conqueror would have

used them in the building of Windsor Castle. The Tree Registry of the British Isles (Trobi) states that the largest English oak (Quercus robur) in the UK is King Offas Oak in Windsor Great Park and is 1,300 years old. William the Conquerors Oak is 1,000 years old and is also in the park. The Parish Council thanks local children Esther Beales, Louie Hope and Yasmin Dignan for planting this very significant tree. Who knows what this tree may witness over the next 1,000 years. Stephen Wickham Goudhurst Parish Councillor

Peace of Mind
Kent Fire & Rescue is offering free fire safety advice and other services to our residents. Well feature more in the next issue of Local. In the meantime, if youd like to know more about keeping safer at home, call them on freephone 0800 923 7000, or e-mail home@kent.fire-uk.org

Awards ceremony
After 28 September check out www.royaltunbridgewellsinbloom.org.uk to find out the winners of Bloom 2012.

21

Tunbridge Wells Celebrates

The day the Olympic Torch came to Royal Tunbridge Wells
The sun shone, the crowds cheered and 17 July was a truly memorable day for thousands as they gathered for the Olympic Torch to arrive in Royal Tunbridge Wells.
The support and excitement were clear to see, and crowds werent disappointed as they waited in anticipation to see the symbolic flame travel the route. What made it even more special was that we were the first town in Kent to welcome the Torch! It It all went like clockwork; the Torch arrived on time and was carried by 11 inspirational torchbearers. Local girl, Vanessa Burns, was delighted; she was smiling from start to finish. Afterwards she said: I had never seen Tunbridge Wells so busy. Thousands of people had turned out to see us. It is difficult to describe the sheer enthusiasm, excitement and encouragement I received from the public. I will never be able to fully describe what it felt like to run with the Olympic Torch, but I can safely say that I will never feel that same way again. The Olympic Torch, for me, was not only a historical symbol of the games but a beacon of hope, courage, and love that I got to carry and that is incredible.

With around 25,000 people there to experience the occasion, we spoke to some onlookers to hear what they thought...

Didnt know what to expect, its fun and great to be patriotic for the day. Krissy Wykeham Tunbridge Wells, originally from New York

We actually saw the Torch and thought it would be smaller. Its been fun and Im glad I came with my family. Now watching the show in Calverley Grounds. Harrison Moore (aged 8 11/12) Tunbridge Wells

Really liked seeing the flame. Miles Raymond (aged 5 ) Withyham

Really exciting that we get to see the Olympic Torch. Good for everyone to come together. To see everyone here is great and good for business. Joe Lloyd Lamberhurst

Things like this dont happen often, for the whole town to be out just soak up the atmosphere of the town celebrating the Olympic Games. Neil Pepper Tunbridge Wells
22

Its lovely and wish there was more of this. It picks everyone up! Thora Jarrett Southborough

Positive experience, great community spirit and good time to celebrate being British. Ben Byrd Tunbridge Wells

Loving it and glad Im able to experience the Torch here, with so many people. Liz Blackford Tunbridge Wells

Nice to see everyone out and happy and the sunshine too! Kelly Wilcox Tunbridge Wells

of fun to celebrate the London Olympics. Over 200 residents enjoyed activities from wellie throwing and boxing, to the classic egg and spoon race. Mums and dads joined in with the sprinting and hopping races too. A staggering 24 medals were handed out to the winners. Showfields resident Jamie Johnson was one of the 8,000 inspirational Torchbearers that carried the Olympic flame around the UK. She delighted neighbours when she arrived with her Torch and everyone had an opportunity to have their photograph taken as a keepsake. A good time was had by all.

Number One Community Centre organised a whole day

Schools Torch Relay

Mascalls was the designated lead school to co-ordinate events for schools in the borough of Tunbridge Wells in the lead up to London 2012. With the help of teachers from other schools, a small working party was set up to plan and discuss events. One event was the small scale replication of the official Torch Relay. A staggering 37 schools took part. The journey started at the beginning of May and finished at the Town Hall on 16 July, where pupils were met by the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, just one day before the official relay passed through the borough. Congratulations to everyone involved.
Photography by David Batholomew, David Hodgkinson, Christopher Cassidy and staff at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.

Capel pre-school

got into the spirit of the Olympics with a whole week of sports. Flags were displayed from around the world, many recognisable by the children by the end of the week. The children also made Olympic Torches from gold paper and coloured tissue paper in preparation for their own

Olympic Torch Relay. This was the highlight of the week which the older children and their parents took part in. All the children represented local villages and towns and it took place in the recreation ground. The children were rewarded with a well-deserved chocolate gold medal.

23

Tunbridge Wells Celebrates

As crowds started to disperse after the Torch Relay was completed in Royal Tunbridge Wells, many started to wander down to Calverley Grounds to take advantage of the family activities that we arranged. It was the perfect weather for families to participate, relax and enjoy a family picnic into the early afternoon.

A weekend of fun
It may not have been the driest weekend, but more than 10,000 people visited Dunorlan Park during the weekend, 27 29 July to celebrate 2012.
Saturdays community day was an event with music from local bands and creative activities which proved popular with everybody. More than 600 medals, ribbons, race bibs and Olympic Torches were made by children who visited the Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery stand over the weekend. On Friday evening, there were performances from bands to keep visitors entertained until the Olympics Opening Ceremony commenced, and despite a heavy downpour, spirits werent dampened, with many staying until the end.

The entertainment continued through the evening on Saturday with Proms in the Park, an uplifting music concert with contemporary sounds, popular classics and patriotic favourites, that finished with fantastic fireworks.

24

Mayors Charity
During his year in office as Mayor of Tunbridge Wells, Councillor John Smith has chosen to support Hospice in the Weald as his charity.
Hospice in the Weald provides physical, social, emotional and spiritual care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, their carers and families. Hospice in the Weald is funded by the community, for the community. Their care is provided free of charge and as the Hospice is not part of the NHS, they need to raise 5 million each and every year to continue providing their vital services. The Hospice is reliant on the generosity and support of the community through holding events, making donations and taking part in some of the many Hospice events. With the aim of raising 50,000 for the charity in his mayoral year, John and his wife Rebecca have been taking part in many of the Hospice events, including joining patients and families at the Hospice Jubilee Party, walking eight miles around Tunbridge Wells with 900 walkers for the Moonlight Catwalk, and setting off with just under 100 cars for a Classic Car Rally. John comments Rebecca and I have both enjoyed every Hospice in the Weald event we have attended. It is fantastic to meet so many people from the community supporting this vital local charity, which is so relevant to so many. We have set the ambitious target of raising 50,000 and we have lots of plans for events throughout the mayoral year to achieve this and raise awareness of Hospice in the Weald, including recently hosting an event at Sissinghurst Castle. The next event for the Hospice is Celebrity Squares and Contemporary Art, which is being held on 10 and 11 October at The Old School House, Tunbridge Wells. A wide selection of art by well known, local and famous artists will be available to buy and items that have been donated by famous faces will be auctioned; all raising funds to allow the Hospice to continue providing its vital care for patients with life-limiting illnesses in West Kent and East Sussex. Items donated include a BAFTA outfit from Davina McCall, a signed running vest from Steve Cram, and a tambourine from Roger Daltry!

The annual Mela, celebrating the culture of the area through music, food and dance, was the last event of the weekend and the most popular. The music started at 12.30pm and despite one or two heavy showers people were dancing and having a great time until 7pm. It all added up to more than 4,000 staff hours over the weekend for Council staff, stewards/ security, St John Ambulance and stage technicians to make all the events happen. There were 18 different acts with more than 150 performers and over 30 different retail stalls.

A weekend to remember!

For more information about Hospice in the Weald and any of their events, incuding the Celebrity Squares and Contemporary Art, please visit www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk or contact Emma Whittington on 01892 820508. mayor_twbc TWMayor
25

HI-DI-HI!

Ruth Madoc talks about the record breaking Calendar Girls

Probably best known as Gladys Pugh in the classic BBC comedy, actress Ruth Madoc is starring in Calendar Girls which is coming to the Assembly Hall Theatre in October. Local magazine got to talk to Ruth about the show and her remarkable career. We started with what appealed most about Calendar Girls. First and foremost, its a fantastic piece of theatre. Its also lovely to be working with such a wonderful cast Lesley Joseph, Sue Holderness, Deena Payne, Kacey Ainsworth, Camilla Dallerup, Helen Graser, Kathryn Rooney and Kevin Sacre. Ruth is clearly enjoying being part of such a formidable company. Its such a strong cast and the ladies are such strong characters in real life but the whole experience has been great fun. The chance to appear in Hi-Di-Hi came about because of Ruths long working relationship with Jimmy Perry, the shows joint-creator/writer, and Ruth has particular cause to remember the date. I was about 39 when Gladys came along which is a funny old age for a woman, especially in those days. Gladys was funny because she was so serious and the success of the series and of the character opened doors to me that otherwise might have remained shut.

Ruth is on the road touring with Calendar Girls through until Christmas and shes always meticulously prepared for every eventuality on the tour, much to the exasperation of her husband who accompanies her. Hes ex-Army and he always complains that Im worse than a battalion, laughs Ruth. My middle name is Just-in-Case because I like to be prepared for anything. You should certainly take a kettle with you that would be my main piece of advice and please dont, as I once did, turn up at the wrong theatre. That was most embarrassing.

you can see Ruth Madoc in Calendar Girls at the Assembly Im sure that half the country thought Hall Theatre from Monday 22 Saturday 27 October. I was dead she laughs. I have to say that I was a bit shocked by some To book tickets call the of the dialogue on Little Britain. Thank God my mother wasnt around Box Office on 01892 530613 / 532072 or online at to hear it. She certainly wouldnt www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk have approved!

More recently, the impact of Little Britain, in which she plays the mother of Dafydd the only gay in the village, has restored Ruth to the public eye.

1 September

14 October

11 November

WHATS ON

Hairy Maclary
1.30pm | 4pm Assembly Hall Theatre
5 September

10cc
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
16 October

RTWCS
3pm Assembly Hall Theatre
11 November

Sandi Toksvig
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
7 September

Richard Street (Temptations)

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
18 October

Felicity Aston
8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
13 November

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
8 September

Born to Rock n Roll

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
21 October

Jimmy Carr Extra Date

8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
14 November

Colin Fry
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
9 September

National Youth Jazz Orchestra

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
2227 October

Kevin Bloody Wilson

8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
15 November

The Billy Fury Years

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
13 September

Calendar Girls
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
28 October

Beyond the Barricade

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
16 November

Alan Davies RETURNS ONLY

8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
1722 September

TW Festival Fusion
Assembly Hall Theatre
29 October

Royal Marines Band

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
17 November

Murder on the Nile

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
2425 September

The Emperor of Atlantis ETO

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
30 October

An Evening of Burlesque
8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
18 November

Rhod Gilbert
8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
27 September

Benjamin Brittens Albert Herring ETO

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
1 November

McAllister Brown Dance Show

2.15pm | 6.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
20 November

The Elvis Years

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
28 September

Andy & Mikes Tick Tock Time Machine

2pm Assembly Hall Theatre
2 November

Joan Armatrading
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
21 November

Al Murray RETURNS ONLY

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
30 September

Stewart Francis Extra Date

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
22 November

Fascinating Ada
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
3 November

60s Gold
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
2 October

Assembly Hall Theatre Box Office 01892 530613/532072 www. assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Trinity Theatre Box Office 01892 678678 www.trinitytheatre.net For accessibility information please visit

Michael Jackson Tribute

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre

The Manfreds 50th Anniversary

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
23 November

Ross Noble
8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
5 October

Gunpowder, Treason and Plot

11am | 2pm Trinity Theatre
4 November

Thatll Be The Day Christmas

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
24 November

Shakatak
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
6 October

RTWSO
3pm Assembly Hall Theatre
7 November

The Drifters in Concert

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
27 November

Julian Clary
8pm Assembly Hall Theatre
7 October

Spirit of the Dance

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
8 November

TWODS The Pirates of Penzance

Assembly Hall Theatre
30 November

RTWSO
3pm Assembly Hall Theatre
12 October

Voice in a Million Choir

7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre
10 November

Hazel OConnor
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre

The Emperors New Clothes (schools)

10.30am | 3pm Trinity Theatre

Swan Lake
7.30pm Assembly Hall Theatre

27

Audley Care.
For care thats wrapped around you.

Everyone has differing care needs you can have as little or as much as you want our homecare is tailored around your needs.
You may just want A hand with cleaning, ironing and preparing meals Long term, short term or emergency care A little help and company whilst recovering from illness Assistance with getting up and going to bed, whatever the time Someone to go shopping with you or for you, or collect prescriptions A little companionship or someone to accompany you to appointments Remember you dont have to change your routine just to make things easier for us. Its the other way around. For confidential and completely free advice call Audley Care Tunbridge Wells Branch Manager Emma Draper on:

01892 616769
www.audleycare.co.uk

Well stocked meat counter supplied by our award winning tenant farmers a Rare Breed Pork, Beef, Lamb and Seasonal Game a

On site butchers always on hand to meet your specific requirements a Seasonal fruit and vegetables a

Finest selection of local cheeses and artisan produce

Opening times
Monday Saturday 9am - 6pm Sunday 10am 4pm

Find us

Eridge Park Farm Shop Bunny Lane Tunbridge Wells East Sussex TN3 9JR

Contact us

t 01892 614 711 e shop@eridgeparkfarmshop.co.uk We are on twitter! @lucy_EPFS

Sign up for our email newsletter at: www.eridgeparkfarmshop.co.uk

Want to know more?

28