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In today’s edition: A major drug gang operating across the South has been dismantled, with key arrests made in Tunbridge Wells. Plus, Pho, the popular Vietnamese street food chain, is set to open on Mount Pleasant Road, taking over the old Carluccio’s site.
Looking ahead, the Winter Lantern Parade brings a glow to town this Saturday, while LEGO fans can head to the Tunbridge Wells Brick Festival on Sunday. And for music lovers, catch Coldplay by Candlelight at the Assembly Hall or step back in time with 80s Mania!
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WEATHER
Monday: 4°C 🌡️ 9°C | ☁️
Tuesday: 2°C 🌡️ 9°C | 🌧️
Wednesday: -1°C 🌡️ 8°C | ⛅
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MAIN STORY
What Happened: The court has jailed a criminal gang supplying class A drugs across the South of England. Several of their properties were in Tunbridge Wells. The gang member have been jailed for a total of 20 years. Police made several arrests and property searches, dismantling the £7,000 per week operation. On 6th February, police stopped Cosmin Vlas in Tonbridge. They recovered cocaine and phones, leading to his arrest.
Further arrests followed last March and May. Officers caught Georgi Dimitrov with drugs hidden in a car light fixture and Mehmed Mola throwing ten bags of cocaine from his window. Homes linked to Sabre Arnaut and Sait Arnaut in Tunbridge Wells were also searched, uncovering more drugs and cash.
The gang's leader, Leutrim Bardhoshi, controlled the drug distribution via mobile phones and was arrested in Swindon. All six men pleaded guilty and were sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court, with Bardhoshi receiving the longest term of five years and nine months.
More Context: Detective Sergeant Rob Hemsley highlighted that drug use is often seen as victimless, but it fuels organised crime. During the 13 weeks under investigation, the gang made nearly £100,000. Police are intensifying efforts to disrupt drug networks, targeting both dealers and buyers.
Known users will be subjected to drug wipe tests and searches. User's employers, social services, and the DVLA will be notified where relevant. This case forms part of Kent Police's wider strategy to dismantle organised crime and curb drug-related harm in the region.
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THE BRIEF
Pho Coming to TW: Pho Vietnamese Street Food is set to open in Tunbridge Wells on Mount Pleasant Road. It will occupy the by Carluccio’s and later Bocca Social site. The Vietnamese chain debuted in Kent with a Canterbury location in August 2023. It has applied for signage and awning permissions. The location, near Tunbridge Wells railway station and Calverley Grounds, is well-positioned for foot traffic. Pho offers a menu of Vietnamese classics, including pho, spicy soups, curries, and rice bowls.
Roadworks Not Stopping: Roadworks on Upper Grosvenor Road were set to finish last Tuesday will continue. SGN have found further gas leaks and required repairs. The closure affects a key route between the town centre and High Brooms. It has caused traffic disruption and affected bus services. Kent County Council has extended the closure until at least tomorrow, though SGN has not provided a firm completion date. SGN discovered additional gas leaks, and safety measures require the road to remain closed.
Council Office Sold: The council has sold a former office located in a conservation area near the police station. It sold for £1.25 million and the buyer will convert it into two luxury homes. The proposed plans aim to restore the property at 9 and 10 Calverley Terrace to its original 1820s layout. It will feature five bedrooms, dressing rooms, fireplaces, and landscaped front gardens. Developer Pomona Estates has applied for planning permission. They are planning internal renovations and external modifications, including new entrance gates. The council has been reviewing and selling assets as part of its portfolio management strategy.
Man Found In Rusthall: A man in his 20s was found in a "confused and distressed" state with head injuries. These included several cuts and a brain bleed. He was found on a footpath near Rusthall Cricket Club in Tunbridge Wells on the evening of 23rd January. Police believe he was the victim of a serious assault between 7pm and 8:30pm in nearby woodland and are appealing for witnesses. While his injuries are not life-threatening, officers urge anyone who was in the area or noticed anything suspicious to come forward.
Pub to Homes: Developers have submitted plans to convert the former Weavers pub in Southborough into private homes. The Grade II-listed Tudor-style building may become three homes. The proposal includes demolishing modern extensions to restore the historic structure. The main building will be converted into a four-bedroom house. There will also be two new three-bedroom semi-detached homes. Parking spaces will be reduced from 25 to nine, with 10 cycle spaces added. The property, originally a 16th-century farmhouse, was sold at auction for £500,000 in May 2024. A decision on the application is expected by February 6.
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THIS WEEK
Winter Lantern Parade | Sat, 5:30pm | Storytelling theme for this years Lantern Parade through town to Grosvenor Park | Details
Tunbridge Wells Brick Festival | Sun, 10am | Celebrate all things LEGO at Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre | £7+
Winter Buds, Bark and Blooms | Thurs, 11am | Join a monthly guided walk with our knowledgeable staff and expert volunteers | £5
Chatty Cafe | Thurs, 1pm | Head to Trinity Theatre to talk to people of all ages | Free
The Sound of Music (School Edition) | Thurs to Sat | Mayfield school presents the timeless musical that celebrates love, family and courage | £15
Bruce Juice | Sat, 7:30pm | Celebrate Bruce Springsteen at the Forum this weekend | £20
Fame | Thurs to Sat, 7:30pm | Cranbrook School Performing Arts presents the hit musical | £10+
Kevin and Perry Go Large Experience | Sat, 8pm | Go Large or Go Home, at the Manor House | £6+
Coldplay by Candlelight | Thurs, 7:30pm | Live tribute concert featuring their at the Assembly Hall | £27.25+
80s Mania | Sat, 7:30pm | 80s tribute concert with live band and dancers at the Assembly Hall | £31
Cirque Enchantment | Sun, 3pm | Magical circus show with music, dance, and storytelling | £34.25
Macbeth | Sun, 5:30pm | David Tennant & Cush Jumbo star in pre-recorded performance at the Trinity Theatre | £23
Poppins | Sat, 3pm & 6:45pm | Mary Poppins-themed dance show featuring young Kent dancers at the Stag | £13.50+
For more events head to Plan My Event App (iPhone / Android)
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FURTHER OUT
Hans Zimmer Candlelight Experience | 14th Feb | Pay homage to Zimmer at St Mark's Church | £20+
Batman Comes to RVP! | 19th to 21st Feb | Batman exhibition with memorabilia, Batmobile, and selfie opportunities | Details
Forbidden Nights | 20th Feb | High-energy male cabaret show with comedy and interaction | £32
World Book Day Silent Family Disco | 6th Mar | Get your kids on the dance floor at the Amelia| £5
For more events head to Plan My Event App (iPhone / Android)
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SPORT
⚽ FOOTBALL
1st Feb - Snodland Town 1 -2 Tunbridge Wells
4th Feb - Corinthian vs. Tunbridge Wells
8th Feb - Whitstable Town vs. Tunbridge Wells
🏉 RUGBY
1st Feb - Tunbridge Wells 45 - 17 Maidenhead
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THANK YOU
Hope you enjoyed this week's letter!
Jamie
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