Just to the south of London, and with the M20 and M25 running through the division, Sevenoaks has fast become commuter country, although it can still lay claim to being the “Garden of England”. Over 50% of the population come from the top social classes, with one of the highest proportions of professional workers in the country. There is some light industry, and an element of farming, but the majority of inhabitants are white owner-occupying middle-class commuters.
The town of Sevenoaks was originally named after seven oaks in the town centre, but in the 1987 storm, six of them were blown over. They have since been replaced by young trees. The scenery is picturesque, undulating and often wooded countryside home to many country houses and small towns with great historical associations. Jack Cade’s rebels (protesting against corrupt government and officials) won a famous battle at Sevenoaks over the royal army of Henry VI.
The seat is also the home of Brands Hatch racing track, whose impending expansion is the source of considerable anger amongst local residents.