Tonbridge Bean

It’s been a long, chilly retail void in Tonbridge.

Since Peacocks unceremoniously shut its doors back in November 2023, the town has been in a mild state of fashion crisis. Where, oh where, are we meant to buy our last minute bikini, or Christmas PJs? What on earth are we to do when every single pair of tights we own has a ladder, or a toe hole (especially when M&S online deliveries are out of bounds).The high street has been bereft of sensible socks and reasonably priced leisurewear for months. We’ve managed, but only just.

And let’s not forget the iconic Louise Redknapp poster that’s been loyally sunning itself in the shop window all this time. First defaced with some rather creative (and not entirely family-friendly) artwork, it was later upgraded with a pair of googly eyes. Because nothing says “we miss you, Peacocks” like a semi-sentient window display.

For what felt like an eternity, those Christmas pyjamas loitered in the window well into spring, summer… and possibly the following Christmas. Then came the ominous presence of what looked suspiciously like asbestos removal works, prompting many to wonder if we’d ever see the sweet, synthetic glint of a Peacocks hanger again.

But lo! Hope springs eternal (pardon the 90s music pun)! Hushed tones have been heard all about town, rumours are rife—and now, it looks to be official. Peacocks is hiring. Yes, hiring! Manager and deputy manager roles have been advertised, and for once, the “returning soon” sign might not be lying to us.

No word yet on whether it’ll reappear in the same location or off to a new high street perch—but one thing’s for certain: Tonbridge’s tights emergency may soon be over.

Stay tuned, folks. Our bargain basics might just be coming home. Let’s hope the first task for the manager is to take down that poster of poor Louise!

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