THE BRIEF
🚃Train Vandals: Vandals have caused up to £30,000 worth of damage to a rare historic train at the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells. The 1950s-era Class 207 DEMU 1317, the last of its kind, was targeted in a "mindless attack" that left it needing a full repaint. Volunteers who restored it after decades out of service now face a major setback, with future events at risk. Kent Police are investigating but no arrests have been made. Read more from Joshua Askew here.
🚦Development Go-Ahead: A major redevelopment plan in Tunbridge Wells is set to move forward, with councillors recommending approval for 38 houses and six flats on the Phillips House and Eynsham House site. The scheme, backed by Kier HGP Tunbridge Wells LLP, includes over £363,000 towards off-site affordable housing and funding for local infrastructure. A final decision will be made on 30 April. Read more from Daniel Zambartas here.
🎽10 Marathons: Pete Grimwade is running ten marathons in ten days, each with a 10kg vest, to honour his late daughter Isabella and raise funds for ten different charities. The 34-year-old from Uckfield started on Good Friday in Lewes and is pushing through pain and hills, powered by public support and personal grief. His journey, mapped across Sussex and ending with the London Marathon, marks each of the ten weeks Isabella lived. So far, he's raised over £19,000 and says the challenge has been deeply emotional. Follow his story and donate at 10mchallenge.co.uk. Read more from Lawrence Smith here.
🤳Phone Theft: Two mobile phones were stolen from the EE store on Calverley Road in Tunbridge Wells after a man allegedly threatened staff and used a metal tool to remove the devices. The incident took place around 2.15pm on Mon 21 Apr 2025. The suspect fled on foot toward Camden Road and Garden Street. Police have released a CCTV image and are appealing for help identifying the man. Can you help? Read more and view the image here – Kent Police.
🧵Bunting: After being diagnosed with a brain tumour last November, 10-year-old Kirsty from Tunbridge Wells is crocheting a bunting triangle for every week of her 70-week chemotherapy journey. Her campaign, Crochet for Cancer, has already raised over £9,000 for Children with Cancer UK. Supported by her parents, Kirsty is determined to spread her story across Kent, inspiring her community while facing her own tough battle with incredible spirit. Read more from Craig Buchan here.
📖 Lit-Festival Is Back: The Tunbridge Wells Literary Festival returns from 5–11 May 2025 with its biggest line-up yet, featuring stars like Richard Ayoade, Martin Clunes, Lucy Worsley, Rupert Everett, and Rhianna Pratchett. Expect over 30 events across the town’s cultural hotspots, from author talks and workshops to a Dungeons & Dragons showcase and a live celebration of ABBA’s 50-year legacy. New for 2025: live streaming and exclusive library discounts. Tickets are on sale now — dive into the full line-up with here.
