Discover West Malling

Four editions delivered to over 88,000 homes every month downsmail.co.uk

MallingMalling EEditiondition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE

Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling November 2015 No. 223

News Bed-blocking crisis Heritage scheme TWELVE blue plaques – remembering significant figures such as George Orwell – are to be as care targets missed erected in West Malling. 4 BED-blocking in local hospitals has reached an “unprecedented level”, with Donations suffer KCC flouting care transfer targets by more than nine times. CHARITIES are missing out due In July 2015 there were 1,529 in- and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust. gent Care Network – has been inef- to a loss of business car stances – more than double the total The trust board was told that un- fective.” parks to housing. 8 a year earlier – where patients were less the issues were resolved the hos- During July in the Maidstone and stuck in beds in West Kent hospitals pitals would struggle to cope with Tunbridge Wells hospitals there (covering Maidstone, Tonbridge, demand, even when a new ward were 250 patients waiting for trans- Money worries Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells) opens at Tunbridge Wells Hospital. fer. The situation improved slightly FINANCIAL issues dominated without a suitable place of transfer. The problem is compromising in August, but there were still care enquiries to Maidstone Of these, 687 were due to a lack of standard four-hour A&E waiting transfer delays for 181 inpatients Citizens Advice Bureau. 13 social care capacity – massively time targets, as well as care for pa- (7.1%) in the two hospitals. This ac- breaching the target of 77 – leading tients undergoing booked opera- counted for 1,400 lost bed days. to a threat from NHS bosses to sub- tions. Extra beds and temporary staff After a meeting of the trust, KCC Final last orders mit invoices to social services and have been deployed. and Greg Clark, MP for Tunbridge MEREWORTH has lost its last pub KCC. A report to the Maidstone and Wells and local government secre- after the Queen’s Head “The lack of engagement from Tunbridge Wells Trust board said: tary, the trust backed down on its closed. 16 senior officials within social services “The local committee established to threat to invoice the county is regrettable,” said the Maidstone manage emergency care – the Ur- council. 10 Comment 46-4726 Cost of living Obituaries 32 in market town Crime Reports 34 A NAIL gun was stolen from a WEST Malling is one of the most shipping container in Aylesford. expensive market towns in the UK to buy property, according to a new report. Parish Councils 42-43 It was ranked eighth priciest in AYLESFORD had committed up the country, with buyers typically to £10,000 towards a pedestrian paying £382,270 for a house, top- crossing in Eccles; lack of hall ping the average for Kent by more availability had hindered a table Park packed for ﬁrst parkrun than £160,000. tennis club in East Peckham; The survey by Lloyds Bank horses were finding their way ALMOST 300 runners turned out when Malling launched its own parkrun at found that, throughout the country, onto a footpath in Leybourne; a Leybourne Lakes Country Park. buyers will part with almost phone box was being adopted in The weekly 5k timed run, which is free and open to everyone including £24,000 more to live in a market Offham. children, is the latest of 15 parkruns to be organised in Kent and more than town than in surrounding areas. 400 across the country. Parkrun events are held throughout the world. Property prices in West Malling The Malling course covers two laps around the main lake and starts near have risen by more than 25% in the the water sports centre near the main car park at the country park. past seven years and the average Funding has come from Tonbridge and Malling Council and KCC Cllr Sarah cost of a house is now 13 times the Hohler. average annual earnings of a Event director Tracy Brooks said: “I always knew that an event like worker in the area. this would be popular, but the way that the residents of Malling 5 Only one other Kent market town was listed in the nationwide Inside this edition: top 10. Cranbrook, where the average price of a home is £392,479, LOCAL shops West Malling Flow- came in at number six. Beaconsfield ers, Monks Clothing and Soles was named the most expensive with Heart have all won awards. English market town with an aver- For details, see the four-page sup- age house price of £997,222, while plement by Malling Action Part- YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT Lewes (£408,641) and Midhurst nership, which supports people, 01622 690290 [email protected] (£403,893) both in Sussex, businesses and events in the 11 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent were the next dearest. 4 parishes in the Malling area. Kent’s Most Awarded Optician Book Now 01732 617557 www.optometrists.co.uk omnus stands for everything that’s great in traditional SBritish manufacturing. Established in 1840, Somnus is celebrating 175 years of bed manufacturing this year. While Somnus is known for leading the way in spring technology and innovation, at the heart of everything lays a commitment to the craft of bed making.

UP TO 20% OFF Each luxury mattress is designed to provide the optimum in comfort and support for each individual sleeper. As a result, each person receives a better night’s sleep, with all the associated benefi ts to health and wellbeing. Unlike most beds on the market, a Somnus bed is not mass produced; it is carefully constructed by artisan bed makers. Luxurious natural fi llings are hand teased using traditional methods for the breathability that regulates your temperature throughout the seasons. Hand stitched borders At Somnus a huge amount goes into bring additional stability and offer support, ensuring a comfortable bed that is perfect for you and your sleeping creating our exclusive beds. patterns. Uncompromising attention to detail. The highest standards of craftsmanship. Our unique Sensa iP Intelligent Pocket Springs that gently respond to the shape of your body. We even rear sheep on our farm to provide fi ne British wool for supreme comfort.

Together it all adds up to one thing: a beautifully designed night’s sleep.

Mattress ﬁ llings, including eco-wool, hemptex and ﬂ ax, are sourced from the Somnus farm, located a few miles from the production facility. By keeping its heritage of traditional handmade excellence at the forefront of its manufacturing process, Somnus designs each and every bed to suit the customer’s needs. It is this point of difference that makes a Somnus bed as unique as those who sleep on it.

Free delivery on all orders View the new Somnus display at: Fast delivery on all stock items NEW 0% Interest Free credit DISPLAY Now Open

15 Royal Star Arcade, High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1JL 01622 296680 Open Mon-Sat 9-5pm, Sun 11-4pm

2 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News £6,000 cost of a night on town AN average Saturday night out in for problems, such as anti-social be- Maidstone costs the people of the haviour, crime, waste and harm. borough more than £6,000 – and Although the nighttime economy two thirds of this is the cost of pro- is often perceived as being centred viding CCTV. on the town’s nightclubs with activ- It costs Maidstone Council £4,327 ity post-11pm, the term also covers for CCTV coverage in the town cen- restaurants, pubs and cultural ven- tre on a Saturday night – and a fur- ues. There is support for these to be ther £400 is spent on extra street developed further, to offer greater Zoe Kirby (seated) with area manager Sandra Fruish (right) and staff cleansing and a public urinal. diversity and to attract a wider age The council spends £199.80 on range, according to the report. providing licensing enforcement of- The agencies which jointly fund ficers, while the cost to Kent Police is Maidstone’s nighttime economy Pop-in centre for veterans averaged at £1,146.08, which covers each Saturday together spend about A NEW pop-in centre where armed Zoe Kirby, who will be running the the cost of police officers, processing £315,785 in a year. forces veterans and their families drop-in twice a week, with the help suspects and investigating crime. Volunteers play an important part, can access advice and practical of volunteers, said: “We can help The findings come from a Night- too, with the taxi marshalls, street help has opened at the Royal with a range of problems or we can time Economy Task and Finish pastors and Urban Blue bus helpers British Legion Village in Aylesford. help people make the link to other Group, with partners from Kent Po- providing more than 4,000 hours of The facility is one of 16 nation- organisations who can give special- lice and various council depart- voluntary cover each year, dealing wide which aim to provide a wel- ist help.” ments. It was set up to review the with more than 600 incidents and re- coming space for service personnel, The centre, which is close to the costs of maintaining a safe and clean ducing ambulance call-outs and veterans and their families to get ﬁ- newly-opened Base Camp café, is town centre. A&E admissions due to alcohol. nancial, emotional and social sup- open Mondays and Thursdays from The group’s report to the council’s Maidstone has nine pubs and port. 10am to 4pm. For more details, call housing and environment commit- clubs which open as late as 3am on Advice and information ofﬁcer 0808 802 8080 or visit rbl.org.uk. tee says that the nighttime economy Saturdays, but the report concludes brings many benefits to the borough, that these businesses provide jobs including employment. It creates a and contribute almost £323,000 in Read all the latest editions of vibrant town centre and improves business rates, of which the borough the positive perception and aware- council gets 40%, (£129,116.70), KCC the Downs Mail at ness of the borough. 10% and the remaining 50% to gov- FREE www.downsmail.co.uk However it also creates potential ernment.

Call Now – 01732 617557

Malling November 2015 3 News downsmail.co.uk Market town at a premium Heritage plaques ‘to Continued from page one Prices in Maidstone are significantly lower than West bring history to life’ Malling and Cranbrook, with a typical house selling for A BLUE plaque scheme to remem- £248,000. However, the figure ber important West Malling resi- is £26,300 above the county av- dents and events has been A nod to the past at station erage, which stands at approved, despite one of the signs THE plaque for George Orwell will be £221,700. being described as “a silly bauble”. Market town is a legal term, located at the railway station. West Malling Blue Plaques Project originating in medieval times, The author stayed in West Malling in has been granted permission by which means the settlement is 1931 and set many of his works in the Tonbridge and Malling Council to distinguished from cities and area. mount the 12 plaques on 11 listed villages by its right to hold Other sites are: Town Hill Cottage, sites in the town. markets, even if it no longer Town Hill: Brome House and Bel- The 300mm circles will look simi- does. mont, both in High Street; Went lar to the English Heritage scheme in Andy Mason, mortgages di- House and Cade House, both Swan London but will carry a QR code so rector at Lloyds, said: “Homes Street: Douces Manor and Malling that viewers can use a smartphone in market towns typically com- Place, St Leonard’s Street; railway bridge, mand a significant premium to connect to a fuller account online junction of Swan Street and Lucks Hill. over their neighbouring of the individual’s story. towns.” The list of characters to be com- positive impact on West Malling. been untouched for 200 years, yet The survey tracks house memorated includes author George Each of the property owners has the applicant saw fit “to drill holes in price movements in 13 market Orwell, 11th century Bishop Gun- agreed to the application.” the structure to attach this silly towns in England that were dulph and artist JMW Turner. However, the plan provoked an bauble”. It continued that The Cas- identified by the Campaign to Peter Cosier, who is heading the angry response from one resident cade was “most certainly not there to Protect Rural England (CPRE) project said: “West Malling has been who criticised the “absurdly large be appropriated as some kind of pin- and all have a population of home to an outstanding array of ex- number of plaques for a small town” board by ‘transient officials’.” between 3,000 and 30,000. traordinary individuals of national and hit out at the suggestion of erect- Borough planning official Glenda importance. The blue plaque scheme ing a plaque to Turner who painted Egerton felt the plaques would not will bring these individuals to life.” The Cascade at St Mary’s Abbey in have a detrimental impact, but Read our archived The proposal is supported by West Swan Street in 1791. The unnamed would enhance the historic interest Malling Parish Council. It said: “The resident said Turner was neither of the listed buildings. The Cascade editions FREE online at scheme has been put together by a born in West Malling nor lived there. plaque was small and would be www.downsmail.co.uk group of volunteers and will have a The response said The Cascade had sited away from the waterfall. CLARKES FUNERAL SERVICE (R.G. KINSBURY M.M.S.Dip)

WE ARE AN INDEPENDENT FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING A 24 HOUR, Angels Homecare PERSONAL, CARING SERVICE. Family business delivering quality homecare since 1997 ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE AT OUR OFFICE OR IN THE COMFORT OF Offering a flexible service which includes assistance with personal care, domestic help, YOUR OWN HOME sleep in service and much more. We deliver a service tailored to meet your needs. •PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE Now open at 6 Malling Rd Snodland • PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST Tel: 01634 241597 •MEMORIALS SUPPLIED • ALL AREAS COVERED

Also at 5 Premier Parade Aylesford Tel: 01622 715500 31 High Street, Snodland Tel: 01634 240458

4 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Village ‘sad to see priest retire’

AFTER nearly 14 years as the popular figurehead for the church in East Malling, Wateringbury and Teston, Rev Jim Brown is step- ping down to spend more time with his family. The popular parish priest – known for his humour, and easy conversation – was wished the best for his retirement at a packed St James’ The Great in East Malling, where more than 400 parishioners jostled to say their goodbyes. Benefice administrator Sandra The Rev Jim Brown (left) and Dave Corby took over 18 months ago Drury at the King and Queen pub from Janet Saunders, who served brewery called The Rev James in alongside the vicar and his family his honour. for 12 years. Rev Brown joined the priesthood Mrs Corby said: “Jim and his after serving time as a Metropoli- wife Jean have become a central tan police officer. Born in Welling, part of village life. Even those who he spent many years in London, do not attend church know him be- and is a Charlton FC supporter. cause he invites conversation. Now 63, he and his wife Jean will “He has a knack of talking to move from the vicarage in East children, young and old and every- Malling to Offham. The couple’s one in between. He will be missed four children live in the Malling by so many people, especially area. those like Janet who worked with While ill health means he will the family for many years.” need to make hospital trips, it is Following the service, many at- understood he intends spending at tended a farewell lunch at the King least some of his free time visiting and Queen pub in East Malling. galleries, enjoying his love of Landlord Dave Drury placed a music and culture, watching foot- picture of Father Jim on the pump ball and spending more time with Mid Kent Flooring delivering an ale brewed by Brains his family. COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC FLOOR COVERINGS MID KENT SHOPPING CENTRE Children ‘fully supported’ ALLINGTON, KENT ME16 0PU STAFF at East Peckham Pre-School The manager made good use of Carpets Vinyls Laminate Solid Wood in the village hall provide children self-evaluation to reflect on the ed- with a good range of learning op- ucational provision, which helped Artificial Grass Karndean Wet rooms portunies and was rated good by staff promote positive outcomes for an Ofsted inspector. children. Uplift old Move furniture Amtico Children were said to be fully en- There were extremely effective gaged in their play and made good strategies to include and support all progress in their learning and de- children fully. velopment. They were extremely To achieve an outstanding rating, confident and developed excellent the inspector suggested that staff independence skills. should build on the already good Behaviour was very good and the relationships with parents by en- children showed kindness, respect couraging them to share what their and courtesy to adults and other children do at home. They could children. There were clear rules and also provide a wider range of natu- boundaries and the children knew ral resources to enable children to what staff expected of them. investigate the natural world. Runners line up for first parkrun Continued from page one have embraced the event as both runners and volunteers, has been beyond all our expectations. There were 292 runners for this inaugural parkrun–arecord for a first event in Kent and judging by the smiles as they crossed the finish line and the chatter over a coffee after the run, most will be back.” Cllr Maria Heslop, Tonbridge and Malling Council’s cabinet member for ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED community services, and the female runner with the best time in the inaugural run, said: “It was great to see so many people taking part – a FREE ESTIMATES good age range and a great range of abilities too.” The run takes place at Leybourne every Saturday at 9am, and a 2k parkrun for juniors takes place at Manor Park Country Park, West Malling at 9am every Sunday. 01622 761230 www.midkentflooring.com

Malling November 2015 5 News downsmail.co.uk Trust denies death charge Food bank’s call for MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust denied corporate manslaughter following the death of a primary school teacher after an help to renew lease emergency Caesarean operation. Frances Cappuccini, who taught at BUSINESSES are being asked to Offham Primary School, died aged dig deep to help a local food bank 30, hours after giving birth to her hang on to its premises for a fur- More and second son in Pembury Hospital, ther three years. more people Tunbridge Wells in October 2012. The Community Storehouse op- are relying on In a ground-breaking case, the erates from the Wesley Centre, in food banks NHS trust has been charged with Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, such as the corporate manslaughter alongside and has food collection centres at a Dr Nadeem Aziz and consultant number of local churches, includ- Community anaesthetist Errol Cornish. ing East Peckham and Yalding, as Storehouse Cornish (67), from Bromley, de- well as at Paddock Wood Waitrose. at Paddock nied the charge at the High Court in Much of this year’s harvest col- Wood London. A warrant has been issued lection from St Peter and St Paul ally lived close by and they would for a further three years – £24,000. for the arrest of Aziz (52), formerly Primary School, Yalding as well as rally round when there was a prob- Mr Andrews said: “Since open- from Tunbridge Wells, who is be- from the church, was also donated lem. However family structures ing in the Wesley Centre in Sep- lieved to be in Pakistan. The trial is to the food bank, which provides have changed, employment levels tember 2013 we have received 17.3 due to start on January 12, 2016. food parcels to the needy in the are down and we are in challenging tonnes of food and given out 15.6 local community. times which affect every family tonnes. This equates to 7 to 8 Hospice party The food bank was started by a budget, every home's food cup- households helped every week. SEVENTIES band Chicory Tip will group of friends, initially supply- board and finances. “We believe there will be a con- play at Heart of Kent Hospice’s ing food parcels on special occa- “Some families struggle as the tinuing need for food banks, unfor- Christmas party night at Ditton sions to those in need. week's or month's funds run dry. tunately, both locally and Community Centre in Kilnbarn It moved into the former church This problem affects an increasing nationally, and it is prudent for us Road on Friday, November 27. in September 2013, where it is man- number of people, from the elderly to plan to be at the Wesley Centre A bar is available but guests aged and staffed by volunteers who live alone to large families and for at least the next three years.” should bring their own snacks. who help to gather and distribute single parents.” To discuss how you or your com- Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets are the food parcels. It became a regis- The charity’s temporary lease pany can sponsor the Storehouse, £12.50 in advance, for over 18s only. tered charity earlier this year. came to an end in September this or contribute financially, email Call fundraising on 01622 790195 or Chairman Carlton Andrews said: year and it now has to raise the nec- rentappeal@communitystore- go to www.hokh.org. “In the past, the wider family usu- essary funds to stay in the centre house.co.uk.

HAMILTON KITCHENS

787, London Road, 01732 Larkfield, ME20 6DE 521355

Discover our stunning range of contemporary & traditional designs With a massive range of carpets, vinyls, laminates, luxury vinyl tiles, woods and artificial grass our new showroom is now open. Call in today or visit our website to arrange for us to visit you with samples to suit your needs. With carpets starting from only £5.95 per square meter we are sure to have the flooring for any budget. All carpets priced over £10 per square metre includes fitting.

❚ Quality ❚ Design ❚ Imagination Free no obligation consultation & design. All building works undertaken. www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk 01622 844897 Visit our showroom at Warmlake Business Estate, Maidstone Road, Sutton Valence, Kent ME17 3LQ www.rowlingcarpets.uk

6 Malling November 2015 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk

Thinking about a new bedroom? Then think of us. We have a large portfolio of extremely delighted customers thanking us for our excellent work We are a family run business and we don’t do hard pressure selling, just friendly expert advice and design and a value for money price.

www.bedroomflair.co.uk 01622 729855 169 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, Kent ME16 8NA

Malling November 2015 7 News downsmail.co.uk Competition takes true grit Car parks ‘lost YOUNGSTERS are invited to name one of Kent’s new gritting lorries. The mighty mini-gritter – such as this one being tried by five-year-old Aurelia Lloyd-Morell, from Eccles – has been designed to tackle the county’s narrow roads. to developers’ And with names in the Tonbridge and THE loss of business car parks to weekends leading up to Christmas Malling fleet includ- development is changing the face by the Rotary Club of Maidstone, ing Margrit, ShowS- of town centre parking – and one whose loss could see donations re- nowMercy and worrying side effect is a reduction duce from £5,000 to £2,000 this sea- TheGrittalo, you’ll in donations to local charities. son. need to keep a cool Developers are taking over Unless other parks belatedly be- head to come out empty outdated office buildings come available, Rotary parking this on top in the county and gaining planning permissions year will be reduced to: council contest. for change of use, often to residen- Victoria Court, opposite Haynes This year, Kent tial flats or apartments. in Ashford Road. County Council will Many of these buildings have car Whitehead Monckton, solicitors, have 60 gritters and five mini-gritters on standby, with about 100 farmers parking attached and much of this 74 King Street. with snow ploughs ready to help clear 170 rural routes in bad weather. is disappearing to meet the heavy Chaucer House, Knightrider To enter the competition visit www.facebook.com/KentCountyCouncil. demand for residential or other Street – available for the first time. commercial uses. Rotary members and friends will Most significant recent substan- man the three parks from 8.30am to Town centre road changes tial losses have been at: 4pm on five days: December 5, 12, Kent House, Romney Place – 13, 19 and 20 and parkers will be in- WORK is to start on improving traf- the capacity of the junction by 10- now to be converted to flats with vited to donate to local charities. fic flows in central Maidstone. 20% at peak times. the car park off Mote Road Rotary co-ordinator and past Preliminary work for the Bridges The granite paving of the lower contracted out to a commercial car president Robert Wicken (tele- Gyratory Improvement Scheme High Street is to be extended at its park operator. phone 07976 360322), said: “The (BGIS) will get underway in the new junction with Bishop’s Way to create The Corpus Christie town’s car park policy will cer- year, with construction work start- a pedestrian-friendly street scene development at the junction of tainly damage our charitable col- ing in May 2016. with improved crossing points. Pudding Lane and Earl Street. lections – and I fear the cumulative The £5.74m scheme will see the The Maidstone Joint Transport- Both these large car parks have impact will be harmful to town cen- construction of two northbound ation Board asked project manager been used for charity parking in the tre Christmas trade.” lanes on the east side of the river, Russell Boorman to consider the cre- which will allow traffic heading ation of a dedicated cycle lane on St north towards the M20 to avoid hav- Peters Bridge and to ensure that For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk ing to cross both bridges. flood prevention measures were put The scheme is expected to increase in place. Fat Reduction SPECIAL OFFER Laser LipO & Body Conditioning Reduces fat, cellulite, stretch marks 3 Session and rejuvenates the skin almost instantly Course £99 Al LipO Sessions are 40 minutes and include use The procedure is completely of our Vibration Plates throughout your course. non-invasive, painless and there are no needles or injections. Book your first treatment now and re-shape your body! WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED? - Stomach - Hips - Thighs - Upper/Lower Back Fat AMELIAS CLOSET - Arms - Baby Bulge NAILS & BEAUTY - Above Knee Area - Male Breasts 01732 874440 www.ameliascloset.co.uk What is Laser LipO? Laser LipO is a cold laser omitting a low level Kings Hill's Premier Nail & Beauty Salon laser via flat paddles which are placed onto the targeted fatty areas. This pain free procedure causes a breakdown of fat cells (Lipolysis). The fat is then in spacious and relaxing surroundings. passed through the lymphatic System and the remaining is burned as energy. Bringing together over 20 years of industry knowledge and experience. What results can I expect? Results vary drastically per person but you can expect to lose between 1-3cms at your first sessions. 7 QUEEN STREET, KINGS HILL, KENT ME19 4DA Courses are available from 3-10 sessions. An interval of 72 hours is advised OPEN 7 DAYS and the quantity of sessions will be based on individual requirements. with EASY PARKING!

Amelias Closet offers a comprehensive range of competitively priced treatments including; Nail Extensions & Strengthening Overlays in Fibreglass, Acrylic or UV Gel, Manicures, Pedicures and Express Polish Treatments, using a combination of O.P.I Nail Lacquer, over 200 Gel Polish colours and glitters, a variety of Minx Foils and Nail Art Designs. Amelias Closet offers Specialist Beauty Treatments such as Eyelash Extensions, Lash Express, Party Lashes, Lash Lift and Perming, Tinting, Definition Brows and Unisex Waxing. You can also find a range of Body Treatments, Facials and Backcials using the finest Argan Oil, Ghassoul Clay and Beldi.

8 Malling November 2015 COUNTRY HOUSE DEVELOPMENTS MAXIMISE THE VALUE OF YOUR LAND

Country House Developments is a Kent based company dedicated to working in partnership with land owners to maximise the value of their land.

• We're experts in local planning policy • We have a great track record in achieving success • Most importantly - we cover all the costs - you don’t pay for anything

Whether you are the owner of a large garden, a commercial site or simply have some land you think might be of interest, we’d really like to hear from you. Email: [email protected] Call US TODAY: 0843 557 4080 Web: www.maximiseMYland.co.uk

Malling November 2015 9 News downsmail.co.uk Traffic fears as park and ride axed FEARS of a traffic influx on to Maidstone’s already-overstretched roads have been expressed following news the town is to lose one of its park and ride facilities. Maidstone’s planning and trans- But Maidstone Cuncil already Through New Cut? Up London the model is unviable.” portation committee agreed it had subsidises the park and ride by Road? I have serious concerns The committee agreed to seek a no choice but to close the Sitting- more than £554,000 a year and the about this.” three-month extension to the lease bourne Road park and ride car price hike would add to this bur- Committee chairman Cllr David with Gallagher, from November to park in February next year, as a re- den, members heard. Burton said current usage meant February 2016, which would give sult of rising costs and poor uptake. Cllr Ian Chittenden said he was council tax payers were heavily the council time to tell customers But the closure could force more sad at the decision, but agreed it subsidising each park and ride about the changes and provide mo- than 300 vehicles a day on to was the only option. user. torists with alternative travel and nearby roads, as drivers seek alter- He said: “Over the years we have He said: “This has come about parking information. native places to park. had the opportunity to look at and not through want of trying. We The council has already agreed to Landowner Gallagher Properties negotiate something in the area have put on more modern buses look at providing additional bus wants to increase the lease fee of and we have missed that opportu- but usage continues to decline.” services on the radial routes into the site at Eclipse Park, off M20 nity. There is no alternative but to Cllr Clive English said: “Park and town, particularly in the north Junction 7, to reflect the location of support the closure – but I don’t ride in Maidstone is broken. Unless (Newnham Court area) and from the site and its proximity to the mo- like it. Where are all the vehicles we have significantly larger sites the south (Sutton Road and Loose torway. going to go? Through town? and an increased revenue stream, Road). Trusts’ trouble Machine gift to ward CHIEF executive of Maidstone and Cornwallis Ward at Maidstone Hospital has received a Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust Glenn new ECG machine, paid for by the Maidstone Hospital Douglas expressed concern at the League of Friends. annual meeting that it was now The equipment, which cost £3,375, will allow staff to surrounded by three trusts tackling quickly monitor patients on the ward. severe problems after Care Quality Ward manager Karen Dixon said: “This ECG machine Commission reports. Medway, East will be a vital asset to our ward, which we will be able to Kent and now East Sussex have access quickly and easily from within our own unit.” been rated as inadequate and rec- Joyce Langton, chairman of Maidstone Hospital ommended for special measures. Joyce Langton with ward co-ordinator Ann Carek, ward manager Karen Dixon and volunteers Margaret League of Friends, said: “We are very pleased to provide “This presents us with challenges the ECG machine to Cornwallis Ward.” and opportunities we have to Tunbridge and Helen Newman meet,” he said. GP services Moves to solve bed-blocking SECAmb to WEST Kent CCG is seeking to share with NHS England commis- Continued from page one A trust spokesman said: “We are confident of seeing further im- bring in GPs sioning (including the budget) of UNDER-fire South East Coast Am- primary care services (which in- provements that benefit patients at all stages of their care. “Delayed transfers of care have risen steadily over the last six bulance Service has appointed a GP clude GP practices) in Maidstone as medical director and West Kent and the rest of West Kent. It be- months. It is important for our patients’ future well-being that they are able to leave hospital when they are medically fit and safe to do so. CCG has been told this was likely lieves this will lead to improve- to lead to a “culture change” in ments in services. “We have met with Kent County Council and welcome their latest and on-going efforts to rapidly meet any social care needs patients services. may have when they leave our hospitals. SECAmb has also acknowledged SOS for staff “We will not now as a consequence of these positive on-going moves the benefit of having GPs in the A FREEDOM to Speak Up be seeking reimbursement to support the on-going care needs of pa- NHS 111 control room and has guardian has been appointed by tients while they are in hospital waiting for different social care pack- been encouraged to fund this dur- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells ages to be put in place.” ing the winter months. NHS Trust to ensure all hospital A spokesman for KCC said: “In light of the pressures experienced in GP-led CCGs in the South East staff are confident and encouraged Maidstone we have been able to progress an additional service to sup- have been expressing concerns to raise concerns. port people in their own home. This is in the form of a recuperative about the quality and management The trust says it wants to pro- home care service. We will continue to work with our health col- of ambulance services. mote highest standards of patient leagues to meet the needs of patients.” The service will be “disaggre- care and business practices. gated” with separate services for Kent, Sussex and Surrey. Crisis clinics Over 5,000 babies born at centre CRISIS clinics could be established TUNBRIDGE Wells Hospital and ing birth in a birth centre is as safe Practice nurses for a six-month pilot scheme in Maidstone Hospital Birth Centre for women with an uncomplicated CONCERNS grow about recruit- Maidstone and Tonbridge by West saw 5,625 babies born in 2014 – the pregnancy as in hospital. Since the ment of GP practice nurses. West Kent CCG offering out-of-hours trust says “that is about 187 school [Maidstone] centre opened three Kent CCG has been told there is a community-based resources for classes”. years ago more than 1,300 babies need to create an educational re- people aged 18 and over with seri- It added: “Research shows giv- have been born there. source. ous mental health problems. The decision will be taken later this year. Offers of help flood in for refugee children OFFERS of help and donations have ment, DVDs and children’s toys. ing to help.” Site blaze been flooding in for unaccompanied KCC is putting together a pro- For anyone still keen to donate KENT Fire and Rescue Service dealt children seeking asylum in Kent. gramme of learning in its reception items, KCC suggests sports equip- with a portacabin fire on a building More than 170 offers of help have centres. ment, easy-reading books to help site in Station Road, Aylesford. been received by the county council, Cllr Peter Oakford said: “It is with English lessons, board games, Fire crews used two hose reels to ranging from foster care to football humbling to know there are so many DVDs and, for younger refugee chil- put out the fire. coaching and teaching, sports equip- kind people and organisations will- dren, crayons and colouring books.

10 Malling November 2015 TRADITIONAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS Hampers ~ Farm fresh poultry & game Traditional prime cuts: Beef, Lamb or Pork Special Quiches ~ Hand raised pork pies Home cooked meats ~ Succulent gammon joints Fine Wine ~ English & continental £60 cheeses Tempting desserts Full price list available on request Last Orders for Christmas & New Year 18th December Shop will be closed 25th, 26th, 27th & 28th December - normal hours on 29th December

£100

We will once again be stocking “Appledore Free Range Turkeys” and “Bronze Turkeys” W.J. CROUCH BUTCHERS formerly Rickwoods of Bearsted 1-2 The Parade, Bearsted Green 01622 737130

Malling November 2015 11 News downsmail.co.uk Surprise as park cafe bans dogs

FRUSTRATION over a ban on Council said: “The cafe has a five- dogs at Cobtree Park’s café has star food hygiene rating and does been expressed by those who be- not allow dogs inside, except guide lieve Maidstone Council is miss- dogs. ing a trick by making the diner out “We will be adding tie-points out- of bounds to hounds. side so that owners can leave their One owner, from Stockbury, was dogs outside while they enjoy their stunned to find that after a walk refreshments in the cafe. There are around the park with her dog that benches outside where anyone can her pet was banned from the diner, enjoy a drink or a meal.” which meant she and her husband Mrs Sellens added: “In a setting returned home for lunch. like this the council should at least Christopher Biggins (centre), incoming chairman of Cobtree Manor Trust Sue Sellens said: “We’d had a give it a go and if it presents more lovely time at the park, which looks problems than they could cope Roger Hext (left), and Maidstone mayor Daniel Moriarty meet some of brilliant. We had a great walk with, then I’m sure we’d under- the youngsters using the play area at the park around and were ready for a cup of stand; but currently it’s as daft as a tea and a bite to eat. So we were sur- rural pub banning people wearing prised to learn from other dog walking boots.” Biggins guest at opening walkers that the council has im- Professional dog walker Tracy LARGER-than-life TV personality be used for the benefit of the peo- posed a ban on dogs in the cafe. It Hawkes, from Snodland, said: Christopher Biggins has opened the ple of Maidstone, and that dream seems it is shooting itself in the foot “Dog thefts are so common there is final stage of the £1.2m make-over has become a reality,” he said. by opening a new cafe, which it no way I would leave my dog tied at Cobtree Manor Park. He paid tribute to the 12-times needs to be used, and banning one up outside. For hygiene’s sake a Saying he was pleased to be mayor, saying he had done more for of its key user groups.” separate area could be created and away from London, he described the community than any other A designated area for smokers is if top-end restaurants up and down the park as “a fantastic community Maidstone person. available. the country can do it, I see no rea- facility”, and a fitting tribute to the He thanked the trust for oversee- A spokesman for Maidstone son why the council can’t either.” park’s former owner, Sir Garrard Tyr- ing the transformation of the park whitt-Drake. and its £300,000 donation for the For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk “It was his wish that this should cafe. VILLAGE MAIDSMAIDSTONETONE ChrisChristmastmas RecruitmentRecruitment EVENING

BAR STSTAFFTTAAFF WE NEED: WAITINGNG ON STSTAFFTAAFF More details to be provided on the interview day

Thursday 12th November 4.00pm - 8pm Working Dates for thee Fixed TTeTermerm will be FridayFrida 27th November until Saturday 2nd January 2016 Induction Day will be Saturday 21st November - 11.00am-2.00pm All you need is a copy of your CVCV,, your passport or birth certificate and last but not least, great personality! No registratioregistrationn required.

Village The Hotel Club Maidstone M20/J6

12 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Money heads list of concerns FINANCIAL issues continue to in debts written off. 76 volunteers, but is always looking Operating from its base in Bower dominate the list of problems for Almost all clients (95%) were to recruit more. Terrace and at Maidstone Gateway, Maidstone residents who seek help happy with the service they received Chief executive Bonny Malhotra advisers now help those migrating from Citizens Advice Bureau. and the main cause of criticism was said: “I never cease to be surprised from benefits to Universal Credit. It Advice on benefits and tax credits long waiting times for advice. by the level of commitment given by has also become the delivery centre topped the list of enquiries in Addressing the annual meeting, our volunteers in Maidstone. Col- for PensionWise in Kent and Med- 2014/15, with 25% of clients needing chairman Sir Michael Buckley said: leagues, both paid and unpaid, are way. help in this area, with a further 19% “To some extent, they are the in- this organisation’s powerhouse and Mr Malhotra said: “Often provid- needing advice on debt. evitable consequence of the time re- events bear witness to the fact that ing a bespoke service at both venues Employment (12%), housing quired to explore the problems of even under extreme pressures we has been difficult to manage but vol- (11%) and relationships and family clients and to give them full advice. have continued to provide an excel- unteers rally to our cry of help and (9%) followed. “I am proud that the bureau has lent service.” give us additional days above their The bureau dealt with 7,300 clients gone from strength to strength in the He said the bureau had suffered duty days.” during the year, creating a total of difficult financial climate of the past from austerity – cuts in local author- The bureau provides outreach 24,893 points of contact, of which al- few years, but very conscious that ity funding and funding for domes- services in Park Wood, Marden and most half (46%) were face to face ap- the credit for this rests with the staff tic abuse, along with support from Headcorn as well as home visits and pointments and 25% telephone calls. and management and my fellow the legal aid agency and other small also provides an advice service in The bureau secured £300,681 for trustees.” funding streams – but a number of Maidstone Prison for inmates, their its clients and had a further £334,319 The bureau has 31 paid staff and new opportunities had opened up. families and prison staff. Credit union passes £2million loan milestone LENDING by Kent Savers Credit those with poor man of Kent Savers Credit Union, and works with its members to help Union, based in Maidstone, passed credit histories. said: "In the past year there has been them save and break the debt cycle." the £2million mark in September. Kent Savers a kick back against the very high in- As well as helping those strug- Loans of nearly £74,000 were is- Credit Union – a terest rates charged by pay-day gling with debts, the credit union re- sued in the month, from a loan for partnership with lenders and some banks and credit lies on savers and those with good vehicle repairs to several for debt the Church of Eng- card companies. Also, banks are credit histories to offset the risk it consolidation. Other popular rea- land – has seen a being more selective when agreeing takes in helping the less well-off. sons included home improvement, number of church loans and many people such as those Mr Kingman said: “Our main furnishings, holidays and cars. and community- on benefits with small incomes re- aims are to promote saving and pro- Nearly 1,500 loans have been is- based branches cre- quiring small sums for a short pe- vide our members with loans at rea- sued by the organisation, launched ated. riod find it hard to access borrowing. sonable rates, so that they feel in in 2010 to provide a safer option for Martin Kingman (pictured), chair- Kent Savers have a range of loans control of their own money.”

See our new Bathroom website at www.tdlonline/bathrooms

Complete suites from £250

Malling November 2015 13 News downsmail.co.uk Homes plan for Support for brick wall RESIDENTS in a conservation area in East Malling have backed a neigh- bour’s bid to keep a brick wall built without planning permission. Frank and Jean Pataky said they built the 1.45m wall around their garden at Darcy Court to give them some privacy and to stop vehicle head- church centre lights shining into their living room and bedrooms. But Tonbridge and Malling Council issued an order to demolish the wall A PACKED hall heard that a plan Concerns expressed included at the converted oasthouse at Invicta Works in Mill Street after it emerged to turn the West Malling Church over-development of the site, that a boundary of shrubs Centre into three homes, with an- which is in the West Malling Con- had been agreed when a de- other two in the grounds, has been servation Area; traffic generation; veloper was originally submitted to the borough council. the design for on-site parking and granted planning permis- About 100 residents went to the how any developer would be able sion. The council said the meeting at West Malling Primary to get materials on to the site. wall’s size, scale and stark School four days after the applica- The PCC has for some time been appearance detracted from tion from St Mary’s Parochial looking for alternative uses for the the character of Mill Street Church Council (PCC), which building, which even the vicar, Rev conservation area. owns the building, was submitted David Green, now says is “beyond Residents of all 16 homes to Tonbridge and Malling Council. economic repair”. in Darcy Court signed a pe- The development would be Cllr Selkirk said a special meet- tition in support of the served by an inclined entrance ing of the parish council’s planning Patakys’ bid to retain the wall. from Churchfields, with part of the committee will be held at West The couple, who moved in nearly two years ago, said the roads were nar- playground turned over to gar- Malling Primary School in Norman row and the kerb was 12ft from their bedroom window. They built the wall dens. Air raid shelters would be re- Road on December 1 at 7.30pm. to alleviate the “constant inconvenience” of cars and lorries, often with moved, and there would be The parish council’s written com- headlights full on, entering the complex, and to provide privacy for their parking for 12 cars. ments will then be sent to the bor- bedroom which had patio doors opening on to this area. Historic England had rejected an ough council. He said: “We are Mr Pataky said there was also a safety issue from vehicles parking before the wall was built. He told the council: “We believe that had a bit of application to list the building, but keen for the public to write to the common sense been used during the design stage this element could have the PCC said it was acutely aware borough council expressing their been foreseen and avoided.” of the historic value of the building, views and would also encourage He hoped the council “would appreciate our needs as well as the beneﬁt especially to residents of West anyone wishing to attend our meet- to others of not being exposed to my walking from the bed to the en suite Malling who attended the centre. ing to discuss this and our response in the mornings”. Cllr Richard Selkirk, chairman of further to come along.” East Malling and Larkﬁeld Parish Council said the application was “rea- the planning committee on West Discussions also continue as to sonable in the circumstances” while East Malling Conservation Group Malling Parish Council, said the ap- how a meeting room, toilet and backed the scheme, saying the wall was “well constructed with suitable plication was “one of the most im- kitchenette could be provided for bricks”. portant for the area in years”. the church.

FREE ESTIMATES

MOBILE BODY REPAIRS

• BUMPER SCUFFS • KEY SCRATCHES • ALLOY REFURB • VANDOLISM DAMAGE TO PAINTWORK • DENTS Before Before • MACHINE POLISHING • FULLY GUARANTEED TO MAIN DEALER STANDARD • FULLY INSURED • 27 years experience Proud sponsors of • 6 day operation Bearsted • Around 1/4 of body shop price After After Cricket Club • Reliable, professional and flexible Call: 07771 621 769 [email protected] www.touchupsltd.co.uk

14 Malling November 2015 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk

/&7) )"+0"0 $&3" 1%" )"/"01 3&0&,+ &+ 1%" 1,2$%"01 Healthier eyeseyes )"+0 ,1&+$ǽ %"6 /" 0 /1 %Ȓ/"0&01+1Ǿ 4&1% Ǘ 6"/ 4//+16+! -/,1" 1 $&+01 $)/" 4%& % &0 $/"1 #,/ +&$%1 1&*"!/&3&+$Ǿ 0 1%"6 /"!2 " 1%" $)/" +! !77)" #/,* 1%"%"!)&$%10 ,# ,+ ,*&+$ 3"%& )"0ǽ # 6,2 4,/( &+ + ,ƛ& "Ǿ6,2 + Ɯ+! /"Ɲ" 1&,+0 #/,* * &"+1 )&$%1&+$ +! & SaferSafer Vision 6,2/ ,*-21"/ 3&02))6 1&/&+$Ǿ )"3&+$ 6,2 /"!Ȓ"6"! 6 1%" "+!,# 1%" !6ǽ /&7) )"+0"0 /"*,3" 1%"0" ++,6&+$ /"Ɲ" 1&,+0+! /" 0, !3+ "! 1%1 "3"/6!6 !201 +! DID YOU KNOW over 90% of spectacle wearers in Japan have !&/1ǾƜ+$"/-/&+10 +! 0*2!$"0Ǿ +ȉ1 $"1 $/&- ,+ 1%"*Ǿ +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3")"+0"0Ǿ ,*-/"! 1, 2/,-"+ ,2+1/&"0 4&1% *"+&+$1%"6 016 )"+"/ #,/ ),+$"/ǽ %"+ 6,2 )"+ 6,2/ *"/"ǚǕʢǽ " 1%&+( &1ȉ0 ,21 1&*" 1%1 *,/" ,# 20 ,2)! %&"3" 0-" 1 )"01,,Ǿ 1%"6 !,+ȉ1 /"1" 1%" 011& 1%1 11/ 10 !201ǽ ,1 )"/"/3&0&,+ǽ ))1%" "+"Ɯ10 /" 3&0& )"Ȁ /&7) )"+0"0)0, Ɯ)1"/ ,21 ǖǕǕʢ ,# /60Ǿ 0, AR +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3" coating ( Ȝ&0 16-" ,# -1& ) ,1&+$ --)&"! 1%"6ȉ/"1%" %")1%6 ,-1&,+ 1,,Ȃ 1,1%" 02/# " ,# )"+0"0 1, /"!2 " /"Ɲ" 1&,+ +! $)/"ǽ %&0 &*-/,3"01%" "ƛ& &"+ 6 ,# )"+0"0 +! )/&16 ,# 3&0&,+ +! /&7) /,1" 1&3" )"+0"0 +,4 ,ƛ"/ !" /"0"01%" /"Ɲ" 1&,+ ,# )&$%1 #/,* 1%" #/,+1 +! ( ,# 1%" /&7)/"3"+ & 4%& % Ɯ)1"/0 ,21 )"+0"0ǽ!!&1&,+))6Ǿ ,1&+$0 &+ /"0" 1%" 1/+0*&00&,+ ,# %/*#2) )2"Ȓ3&,)"1 )&$%1 !")&3"/&+$ )&$%11%/,2$% 1%" "6"$)00 )"+0"0ǽ %&$%Ȓ.2)&16 ,/ +1&Ȓ -/,1" 1&,+)) !6Ȁ 4%&)" /&7) $)/" ,1&+$ 4&)) )),4 ǞǞǽǚʢ ,# )&$%1 1, -00 1%/,2$% 1%" )"+0"0Ǿ /+0&1&,+0.2& ()6 %+$" #/,* )"/ 1, )),4&+$#,/ "11"/ 3&0&,+ǽ +6 -",-)" )0, Ɯ+! 1%1 %3&+$ 1%" !/(4%"+ "5-,0"! 1, )&$%1ǽ ,/ *,/" &+#,/*1&,+ /"$/!&+$ +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3")"+0 ,1&+$ &*-/,3"0 +&$%1 1&*" !/&3&+$ 6 $)/" 1%" ,*-)"1" /&7) #*&)6Ǿ -)"0" 3&0&1 ,2/ 4" 0&1"ǿ 444ǽ /"!2 1&,+Ǿ-/1& 2)/)6 ,+ /&+6 4&+1"/6 +&$%10ǽ (&+$0%&)),-1& &+0ǽ ,ǽ2(Ǿ,/ )1"/+1&3")6 ,*" 3&0&1 20 &+ -"/0,+ǽ

AT WORKWORK IN THTHEESU SUNN DRDRIVINGIVING OUOUTT & ABOUTABOUT

" ")&"3" #,/ *+6 -",-)" &1ȉ0 &!") 1, %3" 14, ,/ *,/" -&/0 ,# 1&+$0 &)) -1& &+0 4" -/&!" ,2/0")3"0 ,+ ,ƛ"/&+$ ,2/ $)00"04&1% !&ƛ"/"+1 )"+0"0 1, 02&1 1%"&/ 3&02) +""!0ǽ " %"/" 1 -1&"+10 ,+"01Ǿ /,#"00&,+) +! 5-"/1 !3& " 4%&)01 ,ƛ"/&+$ &+$0 &)) -1& &+0 /" -/,2! ,# 1%" /&7) )"+0"0 1%1 4" ,ƛ"/ %&$%.2)&16 -" 1 )" +! "+0"0 4%& %&0 4%6 4" /" ,**"+! +!/" +,4 ,ƛ"/&+$ )) +"4 +! "5&01&+$ -1&"+10 ǚǕʢ ,ƛ 1%"&/ /&7) +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3" )"+0"0ǽ 0" ,+!-&/ ,# /&7) )"+0"0ǽ

,2/"6"0 /" ,+01+1)6 2+!"/ 11 (Ǿ #/,* /60Ǿ !&$&1) &+$0 &)) -1& &+0 /" -/,2! 1, !"3& "0Ǿ-,,/ !&"1Ǿ +! *,!"/+ )&3&+$Ǿ 4%& % + " %7/!,20 ")" /1"1%"&/ ǖǕ1% 6"/ ++&3"/0/6 1,6,2/ 3&0&,+ǽ , 6,2 0-"+! %,2/0 $)2"! 1, ,*-21"/ 0 /""+Ȅ 1%&06"/ +! ),,( #,/4/! 1, ,6,2 !/&3"Ȅ /" 6,2 ,+01+1)6 !0%&+$ &+ +! ,21 ,# 1%" ,ƛ& "Ȅ 4") ,*&+$+"4 +! "5&01&+$ -1&"+10 %1"3"/6,2/ 16-& ) !6 ),,(0 )&("Ǿ 6,2 + %,,0" )"+0"0 1%1 1,1%" -/ 1& " &+ 1%" #212/"ǽ /"-"/#" 1 #,/ 6,2/ +""!0ǽ

YourYYoouour 2nd pair 50% OFF ooff Crizal lenses /"0"+11%&0 3,2 %"/ &+Ȓ01,/" "#,/" ǘǕth ,3"* "/ ǗǕǖǚ 1, /" "&3" ǚǕʢ !&0 ,2+1 ,ƛ 1%"-/& " ,# 0" ,+! -&/ ,# /&7) "+0"0ǽ ToTo find out more visit www.kingshillopticians.co.ukwww.kingshillopticians.co.uk ode: ad170915 t: 01732 875544 Kings Hill Opticians w: kingshillopticians.co.uk 2 Liberttyy Square, Kings Hill, oucher C

e: [email protected] West Malling, Kent, ME19 4AU V

Malling November 2015 15 News downsmail.co.uk Farewell party as last pub in village closes MEREWORTH has been left farewell Saturday night party be- worth’s only pub following the clo- without a pub after the Queen’s fore the pub closed the next day. sure of the Torrington Arms in The Head closed its doors for the last Mrs Harris said she had enjoyed Street about 20 years ago. time. running the pub and being part of Resident Pauline Bell said the Landlady Jo Harris has locked village events, especially the an- pub was the village hub where up and left after pulling pints at nual fete. friends would meet up. It was felt the venue in Butchers Lane for al- She said: “Thank you to every- the closure of the Queen’s Head most three years. one who has supported us over the was a very sad day for the village The grade II listed building, last three years. It’s been a roller which had already lost another which has two bars, four bedrooms coaster. We have had a fabulous pub, two shops and a post office. and a patio, is now for sale with an time and met some wonderful peo- The Queen’s Head is for sale Landlady Jo Harris has pulled her asking price of £385,000. ple and made new friends.” freehold, with vacant possession, ﬁnal pint at The Queen’s Head pub Villagers packed the pub for a The Queen’s Head was Mere- with agent Sidney Phillips. in Mereworth Pool change ‘Successful’ layby changes to remain SWIMMING is to get even better for customers at Larkfield Leisure MAIDSTONE’S Joint Transporta- refrigerated lorries and waste being this is unfit for use in its present Centre after a £150,000 investment tion Board has agreed to make per- dumped in the hedgerows. state. by Tonbridge and Malling Council manent a series of temporary Resident Barry Stevens told the As the path is part of a national in new technology to create measures brought in six months meeting he had found toilet tissue cycle route, KCC is confident of re- sparkling clean and clear water. ago to prevent anti-social behav- in his garden where his four-year- ceiving funding so the work can The system uses ultraviolet tech- iour by lorry drivers parking in Old old child played, while Doris Even- proceed. nology to treat the water in all three Chatham Road, Sandling. den said the layby had become a Cllr Wendy Hinder said: “It is not pools at the centre. This will signif- The board heard there were still magnet for fly-tippers, with televi- perfect, but it has resolved a lot of icantly reduce the amount of chlo- some issues caused by overnight sions being dumped alongside bot- the problems. The layby is rela- rine needed to disinfect the pools. parking in the layby close to Blue- tles of urine. tively free from litter and is no It has already proved successful at bells estate, but the traffic manage- Work will now be undertaken to longer being used as a toilet. Any Tonbridge Swimming Pool, where ment bollards had been a success. improve the path which is shared return to its previous state would it has improved the quality of water Residents have complained for by pedestrians, horse riders and cy- have been a retrograde step and and the experience of pool users. years about the constant noise from clists, which bypasses the layby, as disastrous for the residents.” EASY TO SELL Turn your unwanted items into cash. • Cars • Bikes • Cycles • Toys • Fruniture • Videos • CDs • Garden Equipment • Musical Instruments • Clothing etc etc Easy to upload FREE Private Ads Online www.downsmail.co.uk

16 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News

MAIDSTONE’S PREMIER BED CENTRE Sleeping out to help homeless

MEMBERS of 17 Maidstone people as well as offering advice churches slept out for a night to and support. raise awareness and funds for The sponsored sleepout raised homeless people. more than £5,000 which will be di- Volunteers bedded down with vided between the two charities. sleeping bags and cardboard as Archdeacon of Maidstone, The protection against a dry but cold Ven Stephen Taylor, who led the night to raise awareness of the event, said: “The sleepout was to churches’ Winter Shelter scheme, help launch the recruitment of vol- which offers safe, warm protection unteers for this year’s Maidstone Velda Evolution for rough sleepers during the win- Churches Winter Shelter. ter months. “The shelter has a strong Chris- Adjustable bed with optional mattresses and alternative The volunteers heard from peo- tian ethos with genuine compas- handset controls available. ple who had turned their lives sion and warm hospitality at its around with the support of the heart. While the churches provide Velda Adjustable Divan Beds are hand made in Belgium, a scheme and Homeless Care, which the venue, it is the volunteers who wide range of luxurious fabrics to choose from allow you to operates the Maidstone Day Cen- provide the companionship and create the bed of your dreams. tre and meets the many practical help guests regain a sense of dig- Adjustable Deluxe 150cm x 200cm with end drawers needs of homeless and vulnerable nity and hope.” was £2449 NOW £2079 mattress and headboard optional extra Where you can oﬀer help SEVEN churches will be participat- ing for more volunteers to ensure ing in the third year of Maidstone’s that 15 needy people can be helped Winter Shelter for the homeless, every night. Help is needed to set which runs between December 14 up the venues, prepare and serve and March 6. meals, welcome and engage with They will offer accommodation, guests, serve breakfast and clear up meals and company at St Luke’s at the end of the night. Church in St Luke’s Road, Baptist “We also need some special vol- Church in Knightrider Street, unteers prepared to go the extra Quaker Meeting House in Union mile and give up some sleep to man Street, Maidstone Family Church in the shelter overnight,” say the or- Boxley Road, United Reformed in ganisers. Week Street, Salvation Army in “In addition, we would be grate- Union Street and the Methodist ful for any donations of money, Church in Tonbridge Road. food and warm clothing to help us Venus This year similar accommodation help these needy people.” will be provided on some days by Food and clothing can be taken to The Venus Bedstead boasts stylish design detail enhanced by Maidstone Day Centre in the Salvation Army Citadel. the natural beauty of oiled American Oak solids & veneers Knightrider Street. Anyone who can help should call that contrast beautifully with a crisp, fresh ivory paint with a The organisers at Maidstone 01622 961616 or go online to Churches Winter Shelter are look- www.maidstoneshelter.org.uk. PEGUYIV½RMWL Venus two tone 150cm bedstead Welly walk to help hospice was £519 NOW £445 mattress optional extra PULL on your boots and join The Welly Walk, a family event in association with Maidstone Riverside Rotary to raise money for Order Now throughout the Heart of Kent Hospice on Sunday, November 29. Walkers can explore the footpaths of the North Downs Way on a Delivery in time for the Kent area three-, five- or six-mile circular route from the Kent Showground Christmas On orders over £500 and within 30 miles of store. in Detling, where there will be refreshments and entertainment. Other features of the day include a treasure trail with a prize for every child, a best-dressed welly competition, welly-tossing and a www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk hog roast. Tickets are £7 for adults and £3 for under 18s. Family tickets are available for £18 (two adults, two children) and £21 (two 01622 753073 adults and three children). To book, call 01622 790 195. Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF

Malling November 2015 17 18 Malling November 2015 Good food at Frank’s its best Restaurant & Mussel Bar Steak Every Night! Aunt Sally's Kitchen in Allington than just mussels. A comprehensive offers you a warm welcome. menu contains an array of other PROBABLY THE BEST Whether you are looking for dishes, including succulent steaks of breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea all persuasion, plenty of vegetarian ON YOUR DOORSTEP Aunt Sally's has something for options and a wide range of fish ! everyone. Where possible, all food dishes. is sourced locally and the For special occasions look no majority of it is homemade. Even the further than lobster, which has a baristas have been trained by tenderness that demands your Roasted of Brighton. The kitchen prides itself on offering excellent attention. Like Frank’s, it is truly customer service. Feel free to pop in something to behold. and try what Aunt Sally's has to offer. 17th century country pub, The Hop Frank’s - Mussel bar is a family Pole Inn is located in the small VERY NIGHT IS MUSSEL NIGHT affair. Exposed beamed ceilings and village of Nettlestead Green, with E ! a large open fireplace accentuate the stunning views across the heart of Monday - Mussel Specials restaurant’s cosy feel. Kent. Very much a traditional A willing band of friendly, country pub, it also boasts a large Tuesday Mussel Night attentive and knowledgeable staff conservatory dining area, and a Wednesday Mussel Night members are on hand to explain sheltered beer garden with swings Frank’s undoubted specialism: and a slide for children. Mark and Thursday - Mussel Specials mussels, with 25 different recipes Kirsty pride themselves on their Friday Mussel Night covering everything from Thai freshly cooked food, the carvery and through to Italian, Indian and a la carte menu are available • Belgian Beers • European. Whether you want your Tuesday to Sunday. Try one of their mussles marinated in something real ales, or a glass of quality wine 53-55 High Street, West Malling ME19 6QH mild or with a kick – Belgium Congo from their fine selection. The pub comes with plenty of chilli – all also has warm welcoming open fires Tel: 01732 843247 tastes are catered for. and a Christmas menu waiting for www.franksrestaurantandmusselbar.com There is much more to Frank’s you to try. AUNT SALLY’S KITCHEN Family Run Cafe The Mid Kent Shopping Centre - Allington Hop Pole Now taking bookings for Christmas lunches, offering a traditional home Nettlestead Green cooked meal of Roast Turkey and all the Mark and Kirsty welcome you to The Hop Pole Inn trimmings. Why not try some of our located in Nettlestead Green. classic home cooked lunches, specialities We pride ourselves on our freshly cooked food and include steak and kidney pudding, liver homemade desserts. and bacon or gammon steak. A carvery is served six days a week Tuesday to Sunday and An ideal venue for family gatherings. our a la carte menu is also available. Large parties are catered for Please call the café direct on and we have a large 01622 297271 to book. conservatory dining area. • Free Wifi Christmas parties and • Free Parking Christmas Day bookings are now being taken. • Take Away We pride ourselves on our warm and friendly atmosphere Opening Times and open fires. 01622 816916 Monday to Saturday For further details visit: www.hop-pole-nettlestead.co.uk 8.00am til 4.00pm Sunday 01622 297271 Maidstone Road, Nettlestead Green, 9.00am til 1.00pm Find us on Facebook Maidstone, Kent. ME18 5HH

Malling November 2015 19 News downsmail.co.uk Highlighting volunteers’work AN open day including workshops and networking marked the official launch of the Involve Volunteer Centre at Maidstone Town Hall in Jubilee Square. The day-long event also included the first AGM of Involve Kent Ltd since it changed its name from Vol- Giving help untary Action Maidstone earlier this year. to families The organisation remains fo- ONE of the more recent projects In- cused on the Maidstone and volve has backed is Help a Maid- Malling area, but the name change stone Child (HaMC). enables it to undertake projects It was set up four years ago by elsewhere in Kent. local children’s charities to give The volunteer centre has had its small grants to Maidstone families permanent home in the Town Hall with acute needs to cover an issue entrance foyer – previously the picked up by a professional working tourist information centre – for Involve chief executive Charlotte Osborn-Forde, Maidstone mayor Cllr with them. about 18 months. It is a drop-in Daniel Moriarty, KCC chairman Cllr Mike Harrison and volunteer centre In the past year, fund-raising ac- centre on weekdays between 10am manager Liz Lowrey tivities and a donation from the and 4pm for those interested in vol- Dinsmore Trust helped reach a total unteering. It also provides free year – 266% of the annual target. ping events and falls prevention of £11,950 for distribution this year. computer training and an area to Older people (supporting the classes): there were 7,500 trips Other organisations that have discuss issues confidentially. elderly through day trips, be- arranged in the previous period. helped with funds include Waitrose, In the past year 587 new volun- friending and the falls prevention Voluntary and community Viridor, Chelsea Building Society, teers have been registered, with 275 classes): in the past year there sector support (provides training, Golding Homes, Bearsted Farmers’ voluntary opportunities on the cen- were 192 new users (up 23%), tak- forums and advice): in the past Market, East Farleigh Farmers’ Mar- tre's database. It has taken referrals ing the registered number to 900. year it has run networks and ket, Maidstone Magistrates’ Court, from organisations such as Porch- There were 259 people who re- forums for groups such as young Mount Engineering, Nationwide light, MCCH, Kent Supported Em- ceived telephone befriending in people and the disabled. A black and Salvation Army. TSB has made ployment, KPMT and Trinity the past year. Falls prevention and ethnic minority (BME) forum HaMC its charity of the year. House. classes are now taking place in is being launched. Training was Rapid-response grants were given Involve chief executive Charlotte Canterbury and Dover as well as given to 87 people in the past year, to 23 families last year, with £3,600 Osborn-Forde said: “If your organ- Maidstone and Malling. with 359 attending forums and donated to Princess Project, Switch isation wants a town centre base to Supported volunteers (assigns focus groups. Youth Cafe, M4S, Dandelion Time, meet clients, the space has internet roles for volunteers at Maidstone Cancer support (helps sufferers Crossroads Young Carers and Park access and a confidential area to Gateway and for the V-Team proj- and affected families in a scheme Wood Scouts. talk. We just ask for a small dona- ect, which provides domestic as- with Macmillan): in the past year There is a quiz night at the Roffen tion to pay for tea and refresh- sistance for those unable): there volunteers devoted 77 hours a Club, Rochester on November 18 – ments.” were 39 volunteers involved in the week to users. tickets are £10. A carol concert takes Other Involve projects include: Gateway project in the past year, Your voice (mental health place at St Martin's Church, Shep- Carers (supporting those who with 171 gardening and decorat- awareness): in the past year there way on December 17, with Energise need help due to illness, disability, ing tasks completed by V-Team were 45 events held through the Park Wood Community Choir and mental health issues, addiction or volunteers. Time To Change project and 795 Innominata. frailty): there were 3,436 carers Community transport (driving conversations aimed at reducing Meetings are at Switch Youth registered at the year-end, 635 of those unable to and from medical the stigma associated with mental Café, where you can get more infor- whom were identified in the past appointments, social events, shop- health. mation. Call 07578 879 909.

Governor Celebrate the best in borough Jobs created at stands down THE people of Maidstone are invited delivery hub GERALD Phillips has stood down to nominate neighbours, friends and ONLINE giant Amazon has from the governing body of Dit- colleagues with the return of Cele- opened a new delivery centre at ton CE Junior School after 44 years brate Maidstone. New Hythe Business Park, Lark- of service. The community initiative is seeking field with the creation of 20 jobs. He has completed 45 years as a nominations for its Star of Maidstone Parcels are transported to the school governor, having started a awards, with the winners attending a warehouse in College Road, where cumstances. year earlier as a governor of Clare gala event in March 2016. they are sorted before going out to Star innovator – a company, Park School, East Malling. Nomination categories include: customers’ addresses. group or individual who has inno- Mr Phillips was the first Con- Star visitor experience – out- Amazon said the new roles vated within the town, bringing a servative to be elected for Ditton standing place to visit in Maidstone; would mainly be order pickers, but new direction, idea or experience on the former Malling Rural Dis- Star customer experience – leav- expects the new site to generate a with an impact for years to come trict Council and served on Ditton ing you with a special consumer ex- total of 140 new jobs at the nine in- (vote open to elected councillors). Parish Council for 18 years. perience (retail, restaurant, leisure); dependent delivery firms in Kent Organiser Neil Pattison said: “This As chairman of the parish coun- Star mentor – someone who has with whom it would be working. will be our fourth awards ceremony cil, he signed the contract to have taken time to improve others The distribution hub is the 16th and we’re looking forward to cele- the Ditton Community Centre (sports, performing arts or business); in the country in Amazon’s new brating the people who make our built. Star community – outstanding strategy to set up a series of small town a better place to live.” He remains a trustee of the Dit- contribution to the community; regional depots under the brand Online nominations are being ton Heritage Trust, which looks Star business contribution –a Amazon Logistics aimed at speed- taken until January 11, 2016. If you after the Victorian classroom in business or person contributing to ing up deliveries and challenging know someone who deserves an New Road where pupils from Maidstone's health and wealth; high street retail chains. award, go to www.celebratemaid- throughout Kent can experience Star lionheart – a 15-year-old, or stone.org.uk. Tickets for the gala what school lessons were like in under, who has changed or For more local news evening, priced £35, are also on sale. those days. effected change, despite adverse cir- www.downsmail.co.uk

20 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Thief caught in stolen shoes Catapults ban A BURGLAR who raided a house in Snodland was arrested while wearing a pair of trainers stolen from the property. Peter Nicholls (21), from Southwark, south-east London, was jailed for two years and four months at a ﬁrst in Kent Maidstone Crown Court after he admitted two counts of burglary, as well as fraud and theft from a vehicle. YOBS who smashed windows and Road and Carnation Crescent and at He got into the house in Birling Road in streetlamps in East Malling have the East Malling Insititute in Mill July through a window that had been been banned from carrying cata- Street. smashed with a stone and stole cash and pults as police use new powers to Sgt Ash Boxall said: “My officers other items while the occupants were out. tackle anti-social behaviour. have worked hard over several A sat nav was also taken from a vehicle Officers from Tonbridge and months gathering evidence to use parked outside. Malling community safety unit vis- these new powers. We will continue Seven days later, he climbed through ited seven addresses to issue civil in- to patrol the area in East Malling and the window of a property in The Ridge- junction warning letters, becoming monitor the activity of those in- way, Tonbridge, while the family were the first in Kent to use the process. volved for the next 12 months.” asleep. He took a laptop, video games, The documents were handed to KCC reported a sharp rise in the cash and a bank card. He was caught after he used the card to pass youths in the presence of their par- number of repairs to street lights a barrier at Charing Cross railway station. ents or guardians and prevent them which had been vandalised with cat- Investigating officer Detective Constable Neil Buckle said: “The from behaving anti-socially and car- apults and air rifles in the last 18 sentence should act as a warning to other would-be burglars that rying items likely to cause injury. months, with at least 64 units in the your crimes will catch up with you.” The warnings are the first stage of East Malling area being smashed civil injunction procedures that po- since the summer of 2014. The lice and other agencies can now use. county council said the cost of emer- If the warnings are ignored, a full gency callouts to fix damaged lamps Childminder’s good rating civil court injunction can be applied in the last two years was £21,000. CHILDMINDER Charlotte Tay- and equipment which are used to for. If granted, offenders could re- KCC said catapults appeared to be lor, of The Lakes, Larkfield main- help children learn new skills. The ceive a supervision or detention the most frequent weapon of choice tained her good Ofsted rating. garden was a stimulating environ- order for up to three months. but air pellets had been found on She provided a range of activities ment that supported their well- The clampdown follows a joint some occasions. The council was based on the chidren’s interests. being and good health. operation between Kent Police and working with Kent Police which had Children were motivated and made Behaviour management was said other agencies including Tonbridge conducted investigations and good progress. to be effective, with children learn- and Malling Council and Circle Rus- stepped up patrols and with Ton- Relationships between staff and ing to respect each other. set Housing. bridge and Malling Council, which parents were good, with informa- The inspector said the service Anti-social incidents had been re- had installed CCTV cameras in the tion shared daily. could be improved by better avail- ported in Chapman Way, Twisden area. There was a good range of toys ability of technology resources. Christmas in Snodland Saturday 28th November 2015

Visit Santa in his Grotto at the Pavilion Café, Cricket Meadow, Rocfort Road from 1pm – 4.30pm

Outdoor Christmas Market, Hot Food & Refreshments with the Scout Group at Rocfort Road car park from 10.00am

Carol Singing with Snodland Choral Society In the High Street from 4.15pm

Lights turned on at 5.00pm by The Mayor of T&MBC and Father Christmas

Lights for Life forms available from Town Council Offices

Malling November 2015 21 Discover West Malling

THE OLD MILL NOW OPEN UNDER TEA ROOM NEW MANAGEMENT West Malling’s only Traditional Tea Room, Mill Yard, next to the Post The Office in Swan Street Green Café BABY KID’S DANCE Open all year: Manor Park, West Malling Mon-Sat 9.30-4.30 Gifts for every occasion Open on Sun 29th November Open Friday – Sunday Wooden Toys Clothing 01732 844311 9am – 3pm Dancewear Accessories Beatrix Potter Books FURNITURE Pocket Money ACCESSORIES Abbey Arcade, 98 High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6NE INTERIOR DESIGN Tel: 01732 840141 W: www.beakids.co.uk FB: beababykidsdance SERVICE We look forward to seeing you soon. Mill Yard, Swan Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6LP Lucia Victoria 01732 844967 INTERIORS www.luciavictoriainteriors.co.uk E: [email protected]

60 High Street, West Malling Kent ME19 6LU Also coming soon expanding to Greeting Cards, new & wide range of West Malling Christmas Cards, Christmas Décor, West Malling Station Post Ofﬁ ce Calendars, Diaries, Gift Wrap, Gifts, Our range of services Knitting Wool, Stationery, Books, Toys, With beautiful bouquets to you Party Supplies, Balloons… Ready to buy at your convenience Full range of national and international postal services for Royal Mail and Parcelforce plus:

Foreign Currency Homephone & broadband Business Banking

Vehicle Tax Cash Withdrawals MoneyGram Passports

Business Mails – Drop & Go Banking services for most High Street Banks Proud Industry Winners

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5.30pm Retail Florist Shop of the Year

30 SWAN STREET, WEST MALLING, KENT ME19 6JZ Handled with care T: 01732 874874 E: [email protected]

Post Offi ce Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered number 2154540. Registered Offi ce: 148 Old Street, London EC1V 9HQ. Post Offi ce and the www.westmallingflowers.co.uk Post Offi ce logo are registered trade marks of Post Offi ce Limited.

22 Malling November 2015 Nov/Dec 2015 Serving local people, businesses & events in Addington, Birling, East Malling, Kings Hill, Larkfield, Leybourne, Mereworth, Offham, Ryarsh, Trottiscliffe, West Malling To sir, with love A BENCH has been placed on the village green at East Malling in memory of dedicated and much-loved teacher Douglas Rabjohn who is fondly remembered by generations of schoolchildren. Mr Rabjohn, who died this year, aged 93, began work at St James’s School, East Malling in 1948, moving to Blacklands School in Mill Street when St James’s closed, where he taught until his retirement in 1985. He was also a parish councillor in the 1960s. Former pupils held lasting affection for him and many donated to the funding of the seat as a tribute to him. The bench is inscribed: “To the Wonderful Douglas Rabjohn 1921- 2015”, on the back rail and: “To Sir, with love” on the seat rail. Bazaar Christmas Chapel Show JOANNA Hall will be transforming the chapel barn at the distributed donations. Photographs and stories of the knitting Pilsdon at Malling Community with a festive treasure trove of ladies will be on display at the Christmas show and online crafts and gifts for the Bazaar Christmas Chapel Show. donations can be made at For the first time the event is being held in December, from https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Bhakapurknittingladies. Friday 11 to Sunday 20, at the historic chapel in Water Lane, West Malling. It will be open from 10am to 5pm Top of the shops and refreshments will be available. CONGRATULATIONS go to three West Malling shops who have won awards. Joanna has been working Monks Clothing of Swan Street has won a sought-after accolade in the fashion industry, alongside crafts people in having gained a desired Drapers Independents Award. The firm won the best new India for more than 19 years business category in the 2015 awards, having impressed the judges with its tailoring and Bazaar embraces service and business acumen. rigorous Fairtrade principles. Monks sent store manager Alexandra Brooker along to the ceremony in London to Ten per cent of proceeds collect the award as the owners, Amy Barker and Michael McMillan, were on from Bazaar’s show sales are honeymoon. being given directly to the Located in the High Street, West Malling Flowers has added another award to its families in Nepal who impressive collection. The shop was named Retail Florist of the Year in the British Florist Joanna works with. During a Association Fleurex awards. The shop’s Heidi Lawley is a Chelsea Flower Show gold recent trip, she met the winner. ladies who knit Bazaar’s Earlier this year, Michelle Lane’s shoe shop, Soles with Heart, of Swan Street, took the goods in Bhaktapur, many of title of Children’s Retailer of the Year and was highly commended in the Ladies whom are homeless since Independent Retailer of the Year, awarded by the British Footwear Association. the earthquake in April, and A Malling Action Partnership publication WEST MALLING

SUNDAY 29th NOVEMBER 2015 12.00 - 5.30pm

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT FROM 12 NOON CHOIRS SANTA’S GROTTO ICE RINK TEA CUP & SAUCERS CAROUSEL VARIETY OF FOOD AND CRAFT STALLS SHOPS OPEN FUN ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES 5PM CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON KEEP UP TO DATE ON THE WEST MALLING FACEBOOK PAGE (West Malling, Shops, Restaurants & Businesses.) KEEP IT LOCAL!

GETTING TO AND FROM THE EVENT The High Street will be closed from the High Street Car Park entrance to King Street and from the High Street down Swan Street to The Lobster Pot from 7am – 7pm so please do try to avoid driving into the area. FREE BUS SERVICE Brookline will be running a free bus service from Kings Hill to the bottom of Town Hill. This will run on a continuous basis from 11.30am PARKING There will be limited parking in the High Street and Ryarsh Lane Car Parks with additional parking available at West Malling Station. PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE WHEN PARKING AND DO NOT BLOCK DRIVEWAYS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY WEST MALLING CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MORE INFORMATION WILL BE POSTED ON OUR WEBSITE: www.westmallingfestival.co.uk Email: [email protected]

Sponsored by What’s On Malling & district clubs, societies & activities

IT is never too late to make a fresh start by taking up new Please let her know as far in advance as possible so that it activities or making new friends. The many clubs and may be possible to avoid clashes and maximise the organisations in the Malling Action Partnership area cater for attendances at each event. a wide range of interests and offer a warm welcome to Details should be emailed to [email protected] or newcomers, so why not give them a try? Details of regular call 07772 318330. meetings are listed on this page. Mary Rayner collates our community diary with details of various groups and is also compiling a list of special events Local clubs and societies have their in the area in 2015. So if you would like your group regular meetings as follows or event to be included, please send her all the information, including how to contact you. East Malling Singers rehearse Spadework Farmers’ Market is on on Wednesday evenings, 8pm to the second Saturday of the month 10pm, at St James the Great from 10am to 1pm at Spadework, Saturday November 14 Saturday December 5 Church, East Malling. Teston Road. Grand Christmas Craft Bazaar, Kent Chamber Choir presents Kings Hill Rotary meets every For more details, see 11am to 3pm at the Church of St Music for Advent and Christmas Monday at 7.30pm at the Spitfire www.spadework.net. John the Baptist, Tonbridge Road, at the Church of St John the Pub. Addington Bridge Club meets Wateringbury. From beads to bags Baptist, Tonbridge Road, Chip Productions Drama Group every Tuesday from 7pm in the and plants to Pashminas – more Wateringbury, conducted by Alan meets Fridays at 7.30pm at West sports pavilion, Park Road. than 20 stalls full of items by local Vincent. Malling Village Hall. Malling District U3A Monthly Meetings are held at Ryarsh Village craftspeople. Refreshments, A varied evening’s entertain- Malling Photographic Society Hall, starting at 2pm, on the mulled wine and mince pies. ment with traditional and less meets every Tuesday at West fourth Tuesday of the month Raffle, cake stall, tombola and well known carols. Starts at Malling Village Hall at 8pm. 7.30pm.Tickets at £10 (£5 throughout the year. much more. Entry free. The Heath Players meet children /students) available from Let’s Do Lunch! Wednesday November 18 at the East Malling Institute, Mill Every Thursday, 11am to 1pm, Ros Diment 01622 813032, Street, at 8pm on Fridays. Wateringbury Local History Rebecca Moate 07715 399320 The Dorcas Centre, Swallow Society’s next meeting at and Wateringbury Post Office. Malling Rotary meets Tuesdays at Road, Larkfield. Wateringbury Village Hall starting Sunday December 6 6.30pm at Spadework, Teston A senior lunch club with activities. Road, Offham. Minimum donation £3. Free at 8pm, when Tim Tawney will be Light up a Life, The Friars, talking about “Disaster to Malling Art Society meets every transport within Larkfield, Aylesford Priory. The Heart of Leybourne, East and West Malling, Triumph” (two battles of the Zulu Kent Hospice Light up a Life Thursday at Offham Village Hall, 8pm to 10pm. Kings Hill. War). Visitors are very welcome. Appeal provides an opportunity Call 07434 150 922 to book. Malling Community Choir meets Friday November 20 to celebrate, reflect and LeyARA remember your loved ones as every Tuesday at West Malling The Malling Society AGM at the Baptist Church, 7.15pm to Meets on the second Thursday of Clout Institute, followed by an well as support your local hospice the month at 2pm at the by making a donation. 8.45pm. £2 per adult, children informal address by Tom free. Leybourne Village Hall. Speaker, Tugendhat MP and wine and You are invited to dedicate a raffle and refreshments. East Malling Women’s Institute nibbles. Starts at 8pm. star in memory of someone Baby and toddler group special, to honour their name in meets at the East Malling Institute behind the King and Queen pub Meets every Wednesday at Sunday November 22 the Book of Remembrance and to St James the Great, East Malling. on the third Monday of every West Malling Farmers’ Market. join in one of the Remembrance Lots of fun for all children and 9.30am to 1.30pm, in High services in the lead up to month, 7.45pm to 9.45pm. babies. Starts at 1.30pm. Street, West Malling. Christmas. Light up a Life is open Malling Stamp Club Mereworth church meets on the second Tuesday Friday November 27 to everyone, not just those who children’s choir have been touched by hospice of every month at the Clout Meets every Wednesday. Mobile police station Institute, West Malling High Street, 12pm, High Street, West Malling. care. Starts at 4.30pm. The children’s choir is a free after at 7.30pm. school group which rehearses at 1.45pm, Outside row of shops, Sunday December 13 Craft and chat group 6.30pm. Parents welcome. Twisden Road, East Malling. West Malling Farmers’ Market. Drop-in. Wednesdays, 10am to Conductor: Stephen Thomas, 4.30pm, Asda Car Park 1, 9.30pm to 1.30pm, in High noon, St James Centre, East 01732 321114. Y1 and up – no Alexander Park, Kings Hill. Street, West Malling. Malling. need to pre-book.

j Cupcake Heart Café j

Hidden away in a grade II listed building in Larkfield, Cupcake Heart is the kind of café you want to find in the Garden of England. A place where you can enjoy a cream tea, fresh coffee and a choice of 18 varieties of delicious cupcakes freshly baked every day.

Adult Christmas Classes

22nd November ± HOW TO«0DNHD1RYHOW\&KULVWPDVcake - £90 - 10am - 4pm

6th December ± HOW TO«0DNHD7UDGLWLRQDO&KULVWPDV&DNH- £90 ± 10am -4pm 13th December± Christmas Cupcake Class- £90 ± 10am- 4pm Farmhouse tea room open

Kids Christmas Cupcake Classes Wednesday to Saturday All classes will be running from 12-2pm and are £20 per child 10am to 5pm Concessions are available for siblings! Children will create themed µ&KULVWPDV¶WRSSLQJVWDNLQJKRPHDER[RIIRXUGHFRUDWHGFXSFDNHV A drink and cupcake will be provided during the class.

Monday 21st December & Tuesday 22nd December Tel: 01732 872169 Contact Us www.tea-at-hilltop.co.uk Address: 781-783 London Road, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6DE Tel: 01732 220222 Where I live... West Malling Parish Council Maceys Meadow The Applefest on CCCZs have been a great success in many are getting shorter and it can be obvious Saturday, October 3 was a great success, areas across Kent and WMPC is keen to when a house is unoccupied. Use timers especially with younger residents, who support similar schemes in other areas of to switch on lights and radios (check the thoroughly enjoyed taking part in picking West Malling. volume level) to give the impression that and mashing up the apples then watching Local warden support officer West someone is home. And remember to talk them being juiced. Lee Edney, head chef Malling was one of 24 parishes who to our local PCSO, Phillip Harrison, or call from The Swan in West Malling, gave his expressed an interest in the pilot scheme verdict on the apple-themed dishes baked run by KCC. An LWSO will work in their Kent Police on 101 if you spot someone or and presented by local residents. Type in own community and provide information, something that doesn’t seem quite right, Apple Fest West Malling on You Tube© to guidance and support to a wide range of including anything unusual in the see some of the action. The Maceys existing services and particularly to KCC countryside such as fly tipping and off- Meadow Volunteer Group is currently community wardens. However, while roading. working with the Kent Orchards for West Malling parish was not invited to take Brief notes The next farmers’ markets will Everyone Project and would like to thank part in the initial project it will continue to everybody who supported the event. More monitor the progress of the scheme with a be on Sunday, November 22 and Sunday, seasonal celebrations in and around view to joining in the future. December 13 to harmonise with other Maceys Meadow are planned and will be KCC community liaison Kent County seasonal events. Age Concern West announced in due course. Council has a team of community liaison Malling is hosting a retired men’s club on Dog fouling The parish council has officers who provide a link between local Thursday, November 26 from 2.30pm to received a number of reports of an people and local organisations, including 4.30pm at The Clout Memorial Institute in increase in dog fouling in the cricket local councils, to help residents to have the High Street. meadow, particularly along the fence line their say in shaping local services. These Finally please note that the parish clerk’s with the allotments, despite this being officers work with councillors at every where there is a bright red bin for dog poo level and will also arrange local office in The Clout Memorial Hall has disposal. Please clean up after your dog; community meetings where residents can relocated to Suite 1 in the main building. by not doing so you could face a fine of discuss what matters to them. Our local To gain entry, you will need to buzz the £70. Remember – Don’t Mess About – Bag officer is Anne Charman and you can keypad by the main entrance door on the it and Bin it for a cleaner environment. contact her on 03000 416923. High Street (the office is only open to Cold-calling control zone A cold-calling KCC consultations KCC has a consultation callers between 11-12pm Monday to control zone has been set up in Nevill directory on its website which lists KCC's Thursday). Otherwise, it’s business as past, current and planned consultations. Court. As part of the scheme, residents are usual. Parish councillors can be contacted shown how to deal with bogus callers and These consultations cover local services via the parish clerk, on 01732 870872 rogue traders. They will expect any visitor and policies and their results influence to properly identify themselves and give a policy-making at county level. Log onto during office hours, or why not come to valid reason for their visit and, if not the consultations.kent.gov.uk website to one of the monthly meetings in the Village satisfied that the caller is genuine, they will find out more. Hall in Norman Road? Full details are know how to deal with the situation. Autumn safety A reminder that the days available from the parish clerk’s office. Planning Committee Don’t miss Dragon’s Den West Malling Parish Council planning GROUPS will be vying for a share of Organisations will each make a three- committee meeting. December 1 at £10,000 funding at a Dragon’s Den minute presentation at the hugely 7.30pm in West Malling Primary School, event on Saturday, November 21 at enjoyable event to an audience of Norman Road. Come and see the The Malling School, East Malling, residents from Larkfield, West and East Church Centre planning application. which starts with lunch at noon. Malling, who will vote on who is most This is your chance to comment directly The money has been made available deserving of the grants, up to £2,000. and the parish council welcomes your by KCC Cllr Trudy Dean from her Application forms are available from views. The meeting is open to all councillor’s community fund. [email protected]. All are residents of West Malling. welcome. LOCAL CONTACTS Trudy Dean, Malling Action Partnership Travel Enquiries Police – Chairman non-emergency Trains – www.malling.org.uk E: [email protected] T: 08457 484950 T: 101 T: 01732 843 119 Nu-Venture Buses – Citizens Advice Bureau – T: 01622 882288 T: 01732 440488 Arriva Buses – Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council T: 0871 200 22 33 main switchboard – Pothole reporting – T: 01732 844522 T: 08458 247800 downsmail.co.uk News Solar plan to fuel business Centre oﬀers help for TWO solar farms with a total of 1,600 photovoltaic panels could be built on fields in Mereworth. Landowner Tregothnan Estate is sexual assault victims seeking approval from Tonbridge and Malling Council for the MORE than 500 victims of sexual schemes which it says will help to assault have been helped by a reduce its fuel bills. Maidstone centre since it opened The proposals include 900 solar two years ago. panels to generate energy to Weald Beech House Sexual Assault Re- Granary in Seven Mile Lane and 700 ferral Centre (SARC), in Hermitage solar panels at an unconnected site Lane, is jointly commissioned by to generate energy to Mereworth NHS England and the Kent Police Business Centre in Danns Lane. and Crime Commissioner Ann The applicant says that, if granted Barnes to provide a 24-hour “per- for 25 years, the schemes will help provide energy security for its busi- sonalised approach” for victims who do not wish to go direct to the ness centre which has an annual fuel Gary Green, director of Mountain Healthcare, with Beech House staff bill of about £10,000, and for the police. granary which pays £50,000 a year Run by Mountain Healthcare, an appointment, or they can be re- nd victims of sexual assault often for energy. This would reduce the Beech House staff, including nurses, ferred by professionals. had to be taken out of Kent to re- business energy requirement from offer immediate care for clients’ Fay Maxted, chief executive of the ceive the care they needed. the national grid. health needs, a forensic medical ex- Survivors Trust, said: “Beech House She said: “This centre is accessible Built by Clean Earth Energy Ltd, amination if they wish, and crisis offers a safe and caring environment by appointment 24 hours a day, 365 the solar arrays would each consist support. They can then refer them to where victims of sexual assault and days a year and able to help all vic- of five rows of panels standing 2.7m other organisations for counselling, survivors can make their own deci- tims. I am very proud of what has high. Each site would have a health care and welfare support. sions about what works best for been achieved.” switchgear housing unit and would More than 300 people were them. I’ve seen first-hand the posi- The centre has two examination operate with minimal human inter- helped by the centre during the last tive effect that the staff at Beech rooms, a waiting room, interview vention. year, 22% up on the previous year. House have offered people who room and kitchen where clients and The business centre scheme Women, men and children are sup- have been sexually assaulted and their friends can prepare drinks and would be 175kW installation with ported and about half of the clients the positive impact this has made to snacks. There is also a 24-hour each panel having a rating of 260W, are aged 20 to 40. their ongoing care.” helpline, staffed by nurses. while the granary development About one person a day accesses Mrs Barnes said that before Beech For details, visit www.beechhous- would be a 225kW array with pan- the free and confidential service House opened there was only a esarc.org or call 01622 726461, or els rating 50W each. which can be done by phoning for small-scale and basic referral centre 0800 133 7432 (out of hours). VINER & SONS LTD CHRISTMAS AT THE Keith Viner SALVATION ARMY This Christmas please join us for the following services, to celebrate the FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENTAL MASONS joy of the season. For tickets (where applicable) or additional information please contact the Community Office on 01622 681808. THE BUSINESS HAS BEEN RUN Tuesday 1st December Carols by Candlelight at 8pm. A thought-provoking evening of worship led by our Songster Brigade (choir), BY OUR FAMILY SINCE 1777 reflecting on the birth of Jesus. Refreshments will be provided after this event. Friday 11th December Community Carol Concert at 7.30pm. We pride ourselves on our A celebration of the joy of Christmas with with Kent Police Male Voice Choir and caring personal service Southborough Junior School drama group, plus our own Salvation Army Band. Tickets need to be bought for this service as we are raising money to support the local charity ‘More than words’ who work hard to raise funds to assist disabled All locations covered children and their families. Tickets will cost £5 (under 15's free). Sunday 13th December Gift Service with a Children’s nativity PERSONAL DAY AND NIGHT SERVICE from 10.15am. This lively family service will focus on the gift of Christmas. & PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST As part of our worship we invite you to bring new, unwrapped toys to be given out to Maidstone children whose families are struggling financially, as part of The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. Children are invited to come GOLDEN CHARTER to this service dressed as a shepherd, Wise Man, Inn keeper, Angel or an animal PRE-PAYMENT SCHEMES AVAILABLE from the Christmas story. Please contact us for further details Sunday 20th December Family Carol Service at 6pm. This family Carol Service will be an opportunity to celebrate the good news of Jesus’ birth with all the musical sections of our Corps. 54 High Street, West Malling, ME19 6LU Friday 25th December Christmas Day Praise at 10.15am. email: [email protected] A Christmas day celebration suitable for all the family. www.vinerandsons.co.uk Our usual Sunday services are held at 10.15am & 6pm throughout Tel: 01732 842485 the year and you are guaranteed a warm welcome! 74-80 UNION STREET MAIDSTONE ME14 1ED

Malling November 2015 23 News downsmail.co.uk No fair fun at ﬁrework event New owner ready to SNODLAND residents were fired up after the town council announced that the annual fireworks take over at Kent Life display would not include the usual fun fair. THE award-winning Kent Life kets and address other needs such More than 160 people signed a visitor attraction in Lock Lane, as education, lifelong learning and petition to keep the fair, which has Sandling is poised to go under healthy living.” been running for about 20 years new management. A spokesman for Maidstone and featured family-style stalls and “Restrictive” conditions imposed Council said: “We have had an ex- rides such as hook-a-duck and by Maidstone Council during its cellent relationship with Contin- swingboats. tendering process mean Contin- uum, which has operated the site But Snodland Town Council said uum, which has managed the park very successfully over the past few the even at Potyns Field had be- since 2008, has pulled out of its con- years. We have been through a come extremely popular and it had tract as of November 30. competitive tendering process for to act to protect the safety of spec- A new company – Hampshire- the contract to ensure best value for tators in a limited space. There was based Planning Solutions Ltd – money.” no option but to stop running the which operates similar attractions The council said Planning Solu- fun fair. in the UK and Europe, was due to tions would honour all wedding Disappointed residents added be signed up to manage the park as bookings and annual passes, and their names to an on-line petition. the Downs Mail went to press. Conkers, a £16 million visitor at- the attraction would continue to traction in the New Forest and The Wayne Mallard said: “It helps to Maidstone Council says no jobs are operate as normal, with new in- National Brewery Centre, formerly make the fireworks night. It should at risk, with staff being transferred vestment and activities. to the new operator. the Bass Museum in Burton upon Continuum’s contract ends on be there”, and Zara Ball com- However, animals and livestock Trent. November 30 and the site will be in mented: “This is disgusting that de- brought in by Continuum to en- It also manages the Harry Rams- a transitional period in preparation cisions can be made without hance the experience are in the den’s franchise in Brighton and a for the hand-over from November consulting our village.” process of being rehomed, along bakery on the Isle of Wight. 15. Lucy Rolfe wrote: “Had a great with some of the leisure attraction’s A spokesman said: “We under- Kent Life members will be con- time last year at the fun fair and equipment. A planned November stand the challenges faced by the tacted regarding membership va- fireworks. Didn’t notice any issues. fireworks extravaganza has been visitor attraction, heritage and lidity from November 30 onwards. It was a great evening.” cancelled. leisure sectors and how to create Continuum Attractions operates Despite the petition, the display Planning Solutions Ltd has in- and cost-effectively promote visitor seven visitor experiences across the was expected to go ahead without vested in, developed and managed experiences which are commer- UK, including The Coronation the fun fair, after Downs Mail went a number of tourism and leisure cially viable, meet the needs of the Street Tour and The Canterbury to press. businesses for 20 years including community and tourist and mar- Tales. Online COMMUNITY INFORMATION ReynoldsTREE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS The Downs Mail information hub is a community facility, which can be found on our website, for local residents and SURGERY organisations to use. Search for information or promote your organisation and its services HEDGE TRIMMING absolutely free. ➢ Employment & PRUNING Training openings STUMP REMOVAL ➢ Events ➢ Charities/Fundraising ➢ Schools & Colleges TREE REMOVAL SERVICE ➢ Local Authority £20 PER METRE TREE HEIGHT Services ➢ Health & Wellbeing ➢ Support Groups & PROMOTE YOUR WINTER DISCOUNTS Helplines VOLUNTEERING, ➢ Clubs & Organisations EMPLOYMENT AND t: 01622 817664 ➢ Groups & Societies TRAINING OPENINGS Visit the community m: 07960 455001 notice board at: FREE www.reynoldstreesurgery.co.uk www.downsmail.co.uk

24 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Blind Delphine ﬁnds new home A BLIND dog who was tied to a pallet of bricks and left to die has got a reason to wag her tail again after finding a loving home. Delphine the springer spaniel, vious experiences and was unre- aged about five, was dumped in sponsive when she first arrived. Cripple Street, Maidstone earlier The kennels were challenging for this year. Despite being safe and her as her heightened response to well-cared for, she did not like life sound made her all the more sensi- in kennels and rarely wagged her tive to the noise of the barking tail. But her life was transformed dogs. after her story was spotted on Face- “When she eventually wagged book by her new owners, John and her tail for us here it was a note- Anne Hopkins. worthy occasion, rather like the John said: “It is incredible how time she first accepted a treat from quickly she learned to trust us. our hands. They were milestones in When we first met her she was pac- her development and her return to ing around and when we touched being a more 'normal' dog and they her she flinched. She was extremely felt like real achievements. nervous. But gradually Delphine without a problem. She’s an ab- had ear infections and cataracts in “Her life has changed out of all has learned to relax with us. Her solute treasure, and lifts her paw both eyes. Thanks to generous do- recognition. Having the stability of tail never stops wagging now.” up to let us know she wants a nations from the public, Delphine a new home, a steady canine com- The couple from Wokingham, tummy rub. had specialist treatment at the Ani- panion and the care and compas- Berkshire, visited Leybourne Ani- “Delphine and Antonia are in- mal Health Trust in Newmarket, sion of her new owners has mal Centre four times to build up separable. Delphine has her own but her sight could not be restored. changed her world completely.” Delphine’s confidence and they bed but she prefers to squeeze on to Christine Dooley, animal centre If anyone has any information brought their nine-year-old rescue Antonia’s. She really is part of the manager at RSPCA Leybourne, is about Delphine and how she came dog Antonia along to meet her too. family. I will never understand thrilled Delphine has found a to be dumped, they should call John said: “She has grown in con- how anyone could part with her.” home. She said: “Delphine was 0300 123 8018 and leave a message fidence and finds her way around When she was found, Delphine completely traumatised by her pre- for RSPCA Inspector Tina Nash. Assault case Praise for driver banned A SENACRE driver has been childminder banned from driving for three years, A SNODLAND childminder after pleading guilty to driving with- has been rated as good by Of- out insurance, failing to provide a sted, after an inspector found breath specimen and assaulting a that children enjoyed a stimu- police officer in East Malling. Mayor Cllr Owen Baldock with young cricket leaders, Adam Ball (far left) lating environment with a Ashley Greenwood (25), from and Richard Kettleborough (far right) good choice of activities. Graveney Road, was stopped by po- Louisa-Marie Young, of Con- lice in Ruskin Close, East Malling, in stitution Hill, was said to have September this year. Leaders award for cricketers strong relationships with par- At Mid Kent Magistrates Court he EIGHT young cricketers from Afterwards, the youngsters were ents and there was a regular ex- was banned from driving for 36 Tonbridge and Malling met some treated to a tour of the ground. change of information. months and ordered to carry out 150 of the sport’s VIPs at an awards The young leader programme is Children were able to play hours of unpaid work in the next 12 ceremony at Lord’s cricket ground. open to those aged 14-16 and and learn in the outdoor area months. He must also pay £75 com- The borough’s mayor Cllr Owen includes training in coaching, on a daily basis and the child- pensation, a £150 criminal courts Baldock was joined by Kent umpiring and scoring, minder ensured that they were charge, £85 costs and a £60 victim cricketer Adam Ball and groundsmanship and ﬁrst aid. safe. She was confident in her surcharge. international umpire Richard Cllr Baldock said: “We hope this knowledge of child protection Kettleborough to present the year’s award winners will go on to and welfare. Charity car park Tonbridge and Malling candidates inspire other young people to take Relationships between the with their Young Leader in Cricket up the sport and help to boost an children and the childminder CHRISTMAS shoppers and football awards. interest in cricket locally.” and her assistant were close, supporters can help charity when Other guests included Jane There will be another Young and the children were settled they use the car park at the County- Hannah, from the England Cricket Leaders in Cricket programme in and confident in their sur- gate office in Staceys Street. Board, and Matt Floyd, from Sky 2016. For more details, call the roundings. A range of healthy The car park will be manned by Sports, as well as 150 other young council’s leisure services team on snacks and home-cooked members of Maidstone Lions’ Club cricket leaders from across Kent. 01732 876166. meals were available and from 10am to 5pm every Saturday helped teach the children the from November 28 until Christmas. importance of a healthy diet. Anyone wanting further informa- To raise the rating to out- tion about Maidstone Lions Club Driver robbed on country road standing, children should be can ring Malcolm Luxton on 01795 A WOMAN was grabbed by the her vehicle before one wrenched encouraged to use their senses 841439. jaw and robbed by two men who the door open and grabbed her by to explore outside, and more forced her to stop her car on a the jaw, while the other opened the resources should be available WI meeting country road near Birling. passenger door and went through to encourage children to make marks and develop early liter- AYLESFORD and Eccles WI mem- She was driving her Ford Fiesta her handbag, taking a pink Ted acy skills. bers will meet on Wednesday, No- in White Horse Road near the junc- Baker purse containing £80. vember 25 at 7.30pm in the Brassey tion with Holly Hill Road when the Anyone with information is Centre, Station Road, Aylesford. The white van in front stopped, forcing asked to contact Kent Police on talk by Helen Howard is Molluscs her to brake. 01474 366149 or Crimestoppers on For more local news and Me. Call Eileen on 01622 715205. The men got out and walked to 0800 555111. www.downsmail.co.uk

Malling November 2015 25 downsmail.co.uk Comment The truth of the storey shameful package, juniors entering general all know that during school holiday practice could earn up to 40% less. This is periods, many traffic problems disappear. Dear Sir – In the recent Malling edition not only unjust, but idiotic in view of the Many schools in the town serve a there is an article referring to protesting lack of GPs. Safeguards against working catchment area which is probably within a Wateringbury villagers with an artist’s dangerous hours are to be removed and one-mile radius of them. Is it too much to impression of a two-storey building. maternity pay affected. ask that children walk to and from school, The Greenstead proposal is for a four- We were told bankers needed their high rather than be taken by car? I know of storey building and it is the size of the pay and bonuses to stop them leaving the several parents who live within a few building we are protesting about. country. Too many junior doctors are hundred yards of their children’s school, Your article conveys a message which is already leaving the UK because of who take them by car. Not only does it add unfaithful to the truth and doesn't truly Government policies towards the NHS, to the traffic on the roads, but then they represent the issue in hand. and this contract will accelerate the exodus. cause obstruction to traffic by inconsiderate If the proposal was for a two-storey Double standards indeed. parking as near as possible to the school. building I don't think there would be much We support junior doctors fully in their Walking would also have some health protest. fight to retain safe working conditions. benefits. Peter Farr, The Orpines, Wateringbury Tired doctors make mistakes. Patients and If KCC and Maidstone Council cannot the NHS will undoubtedly be put at risk by afford to spend money on the Misleading picture these cynical proposals. infrastructure, what else can be done to Dear Sir – The picture in your article The great British public needs to lobby reduce traffic in the town? “Villagers protest over pan for care units", MPs and show support for their doctors. I would suggest two measures, used about the Abbeyfield Kent new 55 flat extra Everyone will need their services one day. together. First would be a peak hour/school care unit, is of a two-storey building. Dr Paul Hobday, Dr Karen Poerton, Dr time congestion charge and the second The proposed building at Wateringbury Ali Abbas, Dr K Bala, Dr Jonathan would be an improvement in public is four storeys tall, a key reason for the Goodman, Dr Roger Hart, Dr David Tod, transport. The first would not be popular, widespread objections. It will be the largest Dr Carol Jones, Dr Akbar Soorma, Dr Amit but trying to persuade people out of their building in the village. The top floor will Saha, Dr S. Renkema, Dr R Blundell, Dr M cars does not seem to work. There needs to look down into many residents bedrooms. Lile, Dr M Ironmonger, Dr J Dennison, Dr be an alternative, with the congestion The picture you were given is most P Hanrath, Dr G Singh, Dr S Jones, Dr P charge being used to help pay for the cost misleading. Gildeh, Dr P Jones, Dr T Cantor, Dr M of seing it up and to subsidise bus Dr Bob Bowie, The Orpines, Maidstone South, Dr M Heber, Dr G Hagan, Dr H services to outlying areas. Road, Wateringbury Terrell, Dr A Jones, Dr M Moss, Dr N Pile If we cannot provide more road space outside the town for through traffic, we need to reduce the level of traffic trying to Support junior doctors Town at saturation point use what is there now. In that respect, it is Dear Sir – As senior doctors who have Dear Sir – I wonder how long it will take just as important to consider the health of worked in Kent for many years, we write to those who represent us in local those who live in the town, particularly express our grave concern about the government to recognise that Maidstone towards its centre, who have to breathe in Government’s intention to impose a reached saturation point years ago, as far unhealthy levels of traffic fumes three damaging and dangerous working contract as house building is concerned? times a day during the working week. on our junior colleagues. The existing infrastructure is creaking David Hacke, Park Way, Maidstone So-called everywhere you look. Strains exist on “junior” doctors healthcare, education, water and public make up all services. Unless and until housing Town losing identity doctors from every development is halted while long overdue Dear Sir – The concern of Maidstone specialty in aention is given to the infrastructure people over the mass housing projects now hospitals, except consultants, and problems, the town will surely grind to an under way and the astonishing neglect of are the backbone of inevitable halt. the inevitable infrastructure problems medical care. Traffic problems, particularly in the rush which will follow is very well-founded. Without them there hours and school leaving periods, are In addition, Maidstone is visibly losing would be no expert chronic, with traffic stuck in jams, polluting its unique identity as a real county town Dr Paul Hobday healthcare for the atmosphere for those who live and the ancient capital of Kent. patients and the anywhere near main roads and rat runs. If it is not to become just another service would be paralysed. We know there are no road improvements suburban mass of housing, cars, choked Sadly, Government ministers do not in the pipeline apart from tinkering as roads and mile-long traffic jams, central seem to recognise this. If they did, they there is no money available. For as long as government pressure for yet more and would not be trying to force on these through-traffic, particularly from the south, more bricks and mortar must be resisted. dedicated doctors “normal” working hours has no option other than to go through the If it is not, real places like Otham, of 7am-10pm six days a week with the town centre, we will be saddled with the Bearsted, Boughton Monchelsea and Loose added insult of a 30% pay cut. In the same problem. will exist only in memory. There are ways to alleviate maers. We G French, Marion Crescent, Maidstone Contact our team ... Stephen Eighteen Diane Nicholls Jane Shotliff Dawn Kingsford Editor Assistant editor Journalist Journalist [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233 01622 734735 ext 233 Cathedral musician to give organ recital at church celebration THE organ at Aylesford church will St Peter and St Paul’s church for 30 additional pistons and new electric spent on and to hear the organ in the be played by a musician from Can- years, will also give a free talk and key contacts have also been added. hands of a cathedral organist.” terbury Cathedral during a week- recital at 3pm on Saturday, November The money was raised by villagers Tickets for Sunday’s concert are £9, end to celebrate its restoration. 14. who undertook a number of spon- which includes refreshments. They David Newsholme will give a The Forster & Andrews organ was sored challenges, including a 24-hour are available from the church office, recital on the 150-year-old instrument, restored by FH Browne in Ash, near hunger strike, along with donations from Michael, or on the door. Satur- which needed £50,000 of work, at 3pm Canterbury, with the work including amounting to more than £18,000. day’s event is free. on Sunday, November 15. the removal of its old cotton covered Michael said: “This is a great op- Further recitals are planned for Michael Keays, the organ-master at wiring. A 10-level memory processor, portunity to see what the appeal was 2016.

26 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Woodland homes plan agreed A PLANNING inspector has decreed that more housing can be built off Hermitage Lane, Maidstone – despite the potential damage to historic woodland. Residents in Allington, together ignated ancient woodland, and that fits of the housing would be very Cllr Tony Harwood said: “The with their local councillors who this was contrary to the current significant. The effect of develop- residents are genuinely shell- battled against the possible de- Maidstone Council Local Plan. ment on landscape character would shocked and distressed at this in- struction of Bluebell Wood, are dis- However, he believed the loss be acceptable and there would be a comprehensible decision. mayed at the decision by a would be outweighed by the “sig- positive overall environmental bal- “It is now depressingly clear that planning inspector. nificant benefits” the scheme ance.” Secretary of State, Greg Clark, is The New Allington Action Group would bring. Although Maidstone Council has continuing at Bluebell Wood a tra- (NAAG) was delighted when both Bluebell Wood separates two allocated the northern section of dition started by his predecessor, Maidstone and Tonbridge and fields which Croudace wants to de- the proposed site for housing in its Eric Pickles when he rubber- Malling councils refused planning velop and the inspector said a road draft local plan, it had hoped the stamped the destruction of 78 acres permission for up to 500 homes through the wood would result in woodland and southern sections of irreplaceable ancient woodland plus a school and community cen- the loss of only 1.8% of the desig- would remain public open space at nearby Oaken Wood, Barming. tre, proposed by developer nated area. Residents had also fought their “This was not an either/or choice; Croudace. A chief cause of concern A letter by Julian Pitt, on behalf campaign on the issues of extra we could have delivered the new was the road designed to divide the of communities secretary Greg traffic, road safety and air quality housing alongside the protection of development, which would cut Clark, said: “Although the small but the inspector said he found no our priceless ancient woodland through the ancient woodland. loss of ancient woodland would evidence to support this. heritage.” After the applicant appealed, In- technically infringe the require- However, he did impose 21 con- Fellow Lib Dem Cllr James Willis spector Paul Clark admitted that ments of the adopted local ditions on the permission, one of said: “Bluebell Wood is a beautiful “in the worst case scenario” the plan…the ecological effects would which is that Croudace must meet oasis and has been enjoyed by scheme would result in the direct be acceptable. the cost of improvements to Junc- many. This scheme will decimate loss of part of Bluebell Wood, a des- “The social and economic bene- tion 5 of the M20. the linear nature of the wood.” Remembering Florist’s team scoops national award the Fallen WEST Malling Flowers has been REMEMBRANCE services were named UK Retail Florist of the Year. due to take place in Malling to ho- The High Street outlet’s owner nour those who lost their lives dur- Nikki Meader received the award ing two world wars and other from the British Florist Association conflicts. at a gala night at the NEC in In West Malling, a procession Birmingham. was to take place on Remembrance Nikki said: “We always attend the Sunday, November 8, following a trade fair, but this year we thought route along the High Street to St we would give the dinner a miss Mary’s Church, with the mayor of and grab a curry instead.” Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Owen But when a BFA judge enthused Above: Downs Mail Baldock taking the salute by the about her attending the dinner, reporter Dawn pump. The church service was to alarm bells started ringing. Kingsford (centre) be followed by the laying of The girls at the shop closed early with budding wreaths at the war memorial out- and raced an evening dress to the ﬂorists at West event so that Nikki could attend. side. Malling Flowers’ In Snodland, deputy mayor Cllr She said: “When they announced we’d won, the girls, who’d been arranging workshop Mark Rhodes was to attend the Re- listening at the door, came running and right, the team membrance Day events. The pain to join the celebration. with their award in rade from Holmesdale Technology “It’s fantastic to be recognised Birmingham College to Snodland cemetery was by the industry, especially because to be followed by a service, and it is an award that recognises the then a further procession to the the team and to learn how to winner. whole retail operation and all the create an autumn arrangement at For details of demonstrations and town council’s headquarters at the girls, not just the owner.” Devonshire Rooms in Waghorn an enjoyable and creative class led workshops, which run throughout Downs Mail reporter Dawn by the shop’s Heidi Lawley – a the year, visit www.westmalling Road. Kingsford visited the shop to meet Cllr Baldock said: “It is an hon- Chelsea Flower Show gold medal ﬂowers.co.uk. our to play a part in remembering those who gave their lives in two world wars and in more recent con- Parish council opposes caravan storage plan flicts. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten and I hope everyone will A HAY field at East Malling could be that storage facilities were in de- A previous application by Mrs join me in honouring these brave used to store more than 100 caravans mand with most local sites already Stevens for a similar scheme on a men and women.” if planning permission is granted by full and with waiting lists. wider area of 1.77 hectares was re- A joint Remembrance Sunday Tonbridge and Malling Council. The 0.7 hectare plot could provide fused earlier this year when the bor- event was due to be hosted by St Applicant Sylvia Stevens, who bays for 102 caravans in four rows ough council ruled that the open Gabriel’s, Kings Hill and the Kings lives next to the proposed site at and would be hidden from Water- storage of caravans, associated fenc- Hill Christian Fellowship, with a Hillberry Farm, Wateringbury Road, ingbury Road by an existing sweet ing and CCTV cameras would be parade from the Control Tower and says it has proved difficult to sell the chestnut copse and would have detrimental to the rural character of an outdoor service at the Running hay produced on the land and she “discreet” CCTV cameras at the en- the area. Airman memorial at Gibson Drive. still has 50% of last year’s crop in trance. A fence of steel posts and Having strongly objected to the storage. rails would be screened by new earlier plan, East Malling and Lark- She told the borough council that hedge planting. With no hardstand- field Parish Council, said the latest For more local news with housing growth in the area, in- ings or buildings, it would be easy to application was a resubmission www.downsmail.co.uk cluding Kings Hill, it was noticeable return the site to agriculture. which it still opposed.

Malling November 2015 27 News downsmail.co.uk Hospital cleans up its act THE chief inspector of hospitals The failure was revealed in the re- against identifiable risks of acquiring regulation. has given Maidstone Hospital a view of surgical services, where the a healthcare-associated infection. When inspectors from the CQC re- clean bill of health, after it was CQC inspection team visited a num- “Our enquiries included the man- turned in June, they found systems found to be failing in its efforts to ber of areas of the hospital conclud- agement of water safety and quality had been put in place to ensure com- control potentially lethal bacteria. ing that the failure meant all areas of at Maidstone Hospital and were pliance with the regulations, min- Infection by Legionella bacteria the hospital could be affected. specifically targeted at the manage- imising the risk of infection. They causes Legionnaires’ Disease – a po- A spokesman said: “During the in- ment of Legionella. We were not also found “an area of outstanding tentially fatal form of pneumonia. spection in October 2014 we asked provided with the necessary assur- practice”. Inspectors who visited the hospi- for information and evidence that ances or evidence relating to the sys- Professor Sir Mike Richards, chief tal in October last year found the the registered provider had appro- tems and processes the registered inspector of hospitals, reported: Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells priate systems in place to ensure that provider had put in place relating to “The development of the estates Trust to be in breach of the Health service users, persons employed for water safety and quality.” dashboard as a system for collating and Social Care Act 2008, in failing the purpose of carrying on the regu- A warning notice was served required tasks for all systems across to ensure the quality and safety of its lated activity and others who may be which set out the grounds upon the trust was an outstanding piece of water supply. at risk of exposure, are protected which the trust was in breach of the work.” Squash speed Another win for George COULD carved squash stop drivers speeding? SNODLAND’S unbeaten welter- can’t see the round that I lost.” Homeowners in East Malling weight prospect George Hennon Clearly learning from his experi- resorted to using Halloween doubled his win tally with a points enced coaches Johnny and Frank pumpkins at the side of the win over Ali Wyatt (4-29-2) at the Greaves, George wasted very few road to urge drivers to stick to Grays Civic Hall in Essex. punches and got some good body the 20mph limit which was in- George (21), a former English and shots in, during the opening round. troduced in Chapel Street 18 European kick-boxing champion be- He said: “I’ve got loads to work on months ago. fore making the switch to boxing, but from the previous ﬁght, it was The pumpkins were carved defeated his 32-year-old opponent much better. In the fourth round I with the 20mph speed limit, from Torquay 39-37 on points. thought I’d step it up a bit. There with other illuminated mes- George (pictured) said: “I was re- were a couple of right hands over sages including “Boo!”, to wake ally pleased with my performance. I the top I thought I hurt him with drivers up to their speeds. didn’t really waste much, I really and a couple of body shots as well.”

Pick-up your Leaﬂet FREE copy NEWDistribution of the Now TAKE AWAY DECEMBER MENU available Local Indian Restaurant Edition with FREE DELIVERY of the Maidstone Open until 11pm every day Free bottle of and Malling’s beer with every No.1 Free £10 spentHandymanLocal

available from:- newspaper All types of renovationbuilding and gardening work Sainsbury’s FREEundertaken. ESTIMATES Supermarket Brickwork•Carpentry • Tiling • • Patio’s Quarry Wood, • Decking Aylesford • Distribution area can be tailored to meet your needs If you live in the • Arrive through the letterbox with Downs Mail following postcodes: • From 3000 - 88,000 addresses per month ME20-7 • Competitive rates & volume discounts

Pick up YOUR copy from Call 01622 630330 for a quote, and see how easy it is to get Wednesday 2nd December your leaﬂet delivered with the Downs Mail

28 Malling November 2015 Malling November 2015 29 News downsmail.co.uk ‘I want to see town go for growth’ A TOWN centre troubleshooter brought in to change the face of Maidstone believes the county town is full of “untapped potential”. Paul Spooner (pictured), who has He told the Town Centre Man- which opens up direct channels to centre development. worked on regeneration projects in agement and Town Team: “I am government funds to promote “This is absolutely critical, as not Manchester, Birmingham and confident we can see significant growth. only are they the highways author- Portsmouth, has been appointed in- growth in Maidstone in the next 10 Mr Spooner was part of the team ity, but this town is their home. The terim director of planning and de- years.” which worked on the Birmingham future of Maidstone is important to velopment at Maidstone Council, A qualified town planner with an Broad Street Bid – the first of its kind them as a business and their long- following the de- MBA, Mr Spooner says Maidstone is in the country. term asset values.” parture of Zena brimming with untapped potential. He said: “I want to see a county A council spokesman said: “We Cooke in August. He said: “We have many fantastic town that is really going for growth appointed Paul Spooner to ensure Mr Spooner has assets and many development op- – not a town looking 20 years ahead. that important work continues to pledged to use his portunities. It is time we started to The success of the town centre man- improve Maidstone as a place while skills and contacts punch above our weight and recog- agement adds value to the overall we look at the future shape of the of- to create a “square nise the importance of Maidstone to process and gives us a head start ficer structure. Mr Spooner brings a mile” in Maid- the county of Kent.” over our competitors. wealth of experience of regeneration stone, much the The town centre management has He said he would also be devel- projects and will carry forward our same as that in the City of London. It already looked at the possibility of oping a relationship with Kent ambitions especially for the town would include the redevelopment of creating a Bid – a business improve- County Council with a view to es- centre, commercial projects and the land at Maidstone East station. ment district – in the town centre, tablishing a joint approach to town local plan.” He also hopes to influence management of The Mall to bring forward their long-term improvement plans for the shopping centre – and Investment plan to boost The Mall get rid of some of the town’s most prominent “eyesore” sites. PAUL Spooner hopes he can work the town.” Born in Folkestone and a former with Capital & Regional, the owner Mr Spooner said he was commit- director of economic development at of The Mall, to find a way to attract ted to bring about the redevelop- Birmingham City Council, responsi- new retail and leisure investment ment of land at Maidstone East ble for city centre regeneration and which will allow the re-vamp of The railway station, in conjunction with major economic development proj- Mall to proceed sooner rather than KCC and Network Rail. ects, Mr Spooner later served as Eng- later. He also plans to put a pro- lish Partnerships’ regional director This would also include a major gramme in place to get rid of eye- for North West and West Midlands overhaul of the bus station, which sores, such as Wren’s Cross on and director of the West Midlands at the interim director of planning and Upper Stone Street, while making Homes and Communities Agency. development said was “a priority for more of the town’s heritage assets. Before this, he spent seven years everyone”. “I intend to do everything I can to with Portsmouth City Council as di- He said: “We need to have a bus make sure the planners are behind rector of development and led the station that is fit for purpose for the us so we can get high quality devel- public/private sector partnership for 21st century. I am determined to opment which fits your aspirations the regeneration of Portsmouth Har- find a way forward to lift this end of for the town centre.” bour. The blueprint for success Pedestrians at heart of vision A BLUEPRINT has been drawn up the town centre co-ordinator. PLANS for the future of Maidstone will make pedestrians a prior- for the management of Maidstone. The co-ordinator will continue to ity. As of April 2016, the plan is for the organise business briefings and su- Paul Spooner said the most successful towns were those which Town Centre Management and pervise working groups covering provided a good “walking experience”. Town Team to join forces as a com- regeneration, events and marketing, The new gyratory works, due to commence in May, will place a munity interest company, designed while MaidSafe will work closely strong emphasis on providing a good quantity and quality of to benefit the community rather with the nighttime and daytime pedestrian space, he assured. than private shareholders. economy forums. He said he hoped to improve the relationship between businesses A strategic board will join forces Ian Tucker, who chairs the TCM on both sides of the river, which would include tidying up the with members of Maidstone council and TT marketing group, said: “It is shrubbery around the Millennium Bridge and Archbishop’s Palace. and senior officers, plus representa- good to see we are on the road to He said: “It’s all about improving the environment and putting tives from Kent County Council, the achieving one organisation that pedestrians first. business and voluntary sectors, to brings together the best of the TCM, “The river is an asset, so let’s use it. We want to create a town oversee the work of MaidSafe (the the Town Team and Maidstone which is a relaxing place to spend money and time.” crime reduction partnership) and Council.” Plenty of interest in growing group for retired MORE than 200 men and women minds and would like to take part zens’ bus pass, and several times a opera and ballet. have now joined the Maidstone in outings and activities with like- year there are outings to places of The whole group gets together U3A. minded people. interest further afield. once a month at the Union Street Since moving to its new meeting The club has more than 40 inter- This year, the group had a week- centre, where a guest speaker is in- centre in the Salvation Army hall, est groups, including short and end trip to Portsmouth Dockyard vited to give a talk to members. Union Street, the group has grown long walks groups, bird watching, and the Isle of Wight and more re- For details about Maidstone U3A rapidly, but there is still room for butterflies and geology. cently a visit to the war graves in and its activities, find out more at more people. One group arranges trips to France and Belgium. the website www.u3asites/maid- U3A caters for the retired or places of interest across the county, A monthly film evening is very stone.org.uk or call them on 01622 semi-retired who have lively making good use of the senior citi- popular, as is the screening of 734298.

30 Malling November 2015 SAVESAAVVVEE £££s ONON SKIPSKIP HIRE ACROSS KENT

4, 6, 8 & 12yd Skips DomesticDomestic & CommercialCommercial Reliable Service PermitsPermits ArrangedArranged CompetitiveCompetitive RatesRates Fully rrecycledecycled aatt our ownown ffacilitiesacilities

01622 804427 countrystylerecycling.co.ukcountrystylerecycling.co.uk Double Glazing Repairs & Locksmith Services BATHING A PROBLEM? • Locks repaired or replaced Specialists in walk in baths, showers and wet rooms. • Letterboxes Access • Free Survey & Quote • Door Widening 50% OFF • Easy Access Showers/Baths • Stairlifts • Hinges & window handles Denied All wall panelling Denied with any walk-in • Care Home Adaptations • Full Installation • Broken glass & misted units bath/shower* • Lost key replaced & doors opened Family Run Business *Offer expires 31st December 2015 • Patio doors, runners & rollers Discounts for OAPs, Co-op members, ex-service personnel, SSAFA & British Legion members • Doors that are difficult to close and lock Please visit our showroom at Unit 11, Newnham Shopping Village, Bearsted, Maidstone Kent 01622 611880 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 [email protected] www.ahminstallations.co.uk

Prompt Freephone 0800 6942024 Collection HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East Fast CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING OFFER Delivery D.TD.T Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate SKIP HIRE Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 SKIP HIRE Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 Over 20 Years Experience Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 Prices from £110+VAT & 12 Yard Bins Upholstery 3 piece suite £84 £42 Covering Maidstone & The Weald Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 50% 01622 EA Registered Curtains Discount Fast & Prompt Service Full length £74 £37 843511 Commercial Half Length £42 £21 Sunny Bridge Farm, Watery Lane, & Domestic No hidden extras - All prices inclusive of VAT West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ

PAUL MILL Television Ltd Est. 1981 WE BEAT 01622 751000 ANY GENUINE • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & 3D Screens QUOTES • Youview Record, Pause, & Rewind TV, BBC iPlayer, ITV Player& 4oD •Driveways •Tar & Grit •Tarmacadam • Your local Sky expert, SKY HD, •Footpaths •Block Paving•Car Parks multiroom & “hidden” dish installation Council Approved Drop Kerbs Free Estimates • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial and dish installation service 01622 743037 Please phone us for free friendly advice today 07729 862518 / 07771 523799 www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk www.rssurfacing.com We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service

Malling November 2015 31 downsmail.co.uk Carey Lander Luke’s CC, Maidstone, and kept wicket. was a loving daughter, wife, mother, sister Obituaries He played for Kent Cricket Club for 16 and a good friend to many.” CAREY Lander (33), who was born and years, between 1946 and 1962. In total Fred She leaves her husband, children, three grew up in Maidstone and aended took 1,069 first-class wickets at an average of stepchildren and six grandchildren. Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, was 23.74. the keyboard player and backing vocalist He was one of the few cricketers to with Scoish indie band Camera Obscura. achieve the feat of taking four wickets in David King She appeared on four successive balls, playing away for Kent DAVID Arthur King (86), who has died in four of the band’s five at Derbyshire in 1951. He was also a useful albums and was Redhill in Surrey, spent much of his life and lower order batsman and excellent fielder. most of his career in the local area. widely recognised to He made his England debut in 1951, His homes in the area included living in have contributed eventually taking seven wickets in five tests Maidstone, Larkfield and Penenden Heath. greatly to a distinctive while touring India and Pakistan. He also Other than national service with the RAF in image and sound that toured the same two countries with a Reading, David spent his working life as a assured the band of Commonwealth side. clerical officer with Kent County Council in steady cult success. Fred was also a skilled footballer and its education department. Carey was the played for Ramsgate in the Kent League. Married in 1965 to Gladys, David was daughter of Eileen He was father to Barbara and Linda. and Bob Lander. Her mother spent years as Daughter Linda said: “We moved to father to Susan and Andrew. He was also vicar of St Paul’s Church in Boxley Road and Maidstone in 1955 where Dad went on to known locally from his involvement with St her family have thanked friends and fans for work locally in the paper industry. He Luke’s Church and a love of music that their support and donations to a Just Giving worked at Aylesford Paper Mill, Tovil and included singing in local choirs. page established by Carey to raise funds to Bridge Mill as a production planner and Gladys died in 1985 and – after retirement fight cancer. finally at Reed Transport, where he retired – David moved to Kendal in Cumbria in Carey got involved with the Glasgow in 1987. 1995. Daughter Susan said: “My father didn’t music scene after moving to the city in 2000 “Dad was always active; he played darts, know anyone in Kendal but his love of the and joined Camera Obscura in 2002, making billiards and golf. He could turn his hand to Lake District and walking drew him there. her debut on a John Peel session for BBC most things and play it well. He was in a “He married Hilary in 1999 and became Radio One. A second line-up change in the darts team called the Old Folks Four who step-father to Andrea and continued to be band left Carey as a central member, and played against local pub teams to raise involved with his local church and follow she remained in the line-up until her death. money for elderly people. He was very his passion for classical music. People will Their two most recent albums – My sociable, never forgot his Cheshire roots and remember him as a quiet, generous and very Maudlin Career and Desire Lines – reached always enjoyed a beer and a chat.” genuine man who took time to get to know the UK Top 40, and charted in the USA. Fred leaves his wife of 71 years, Kathleen, people.” In 2011 Carey was diagnosed with daughters, grandchildren Chris, Robbie, David had moved to Surrey to be near his osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of Laura and Kate and great-grandchildren Leo daughter and son. He leaves his wife, bone cancer. The lack of awareness of the and Gabriel. A third great-grandchild is children, step-daughter and grandchildren disease motivated her to raise funds and expected in December. Corinne, Eddie and Annabel. awareness to help fight the condition. Her appeal raised almost £50,000 during her lifetime with another £15,000 coming Sheila “Lee” Field Ronald Godden immediately after her death. RONALD Frank Godden (80) of Langley was Among the many tributes and articles SHEILA “Lee” Field (59) – formerly O‘Shea well known from more than 50 years as a self- about Carey, The Scotsman newspaper – lived in Saltings Road, Snodland. employed engineer. noted of the band: “Their blend of pristine, She was born Sheila Jones in Lewisham, Prior to living 31 years in Langley he had emotive guitar pop and a lyricism which London moving to Taylor Road, Snodland in lived in Brooklands in Chatham Road, Ayles- toys with themes of wry melancholy has 1963 and attending St ford and Sandling. ensured them a dedicated international Katherine’s and following.” Holmesdale schools. Ronald learned his trade in the Army dur- Carey’s parents added they had been She had various jobs ing national service and returned home to es- “deeply moved by all the gifts and prior to her marriage: tablish a noted local business in which his messages” given to her fundraising as an au pair in talents extended to machining and making campaign.” Tunbridge Wells, at car parts when the manufacturer’s own parts Carey leaves her partner Kenny Macleod, Medway Bonding in were unavailable. Camera Obscura’s sound engineer, her Maidstone and Reed’s Ronald and his wife of more than 60 years, parents and her many fans. in New Hythe. Rosemary raised children Marion and Paul. Lee had three Marion said: “My father was a very giving children from her first marriage: Jason and person who would do anything for anybody. Fred Ridgway twins Kym and Aaron. After her divorce she His love of his work meant he never wanted worked at Night Freight delivering parcels, to stop and he was involved in everything FREDERICK “Fred” Ridgway (92) lived in where she met her second husband Steve, a from towing, spraying, welding, providing Barming for 60 years and forged a national vehicle recovery driver who literally pulled MOTs and the engineering work that allowed and international reputation as a fast bowler, her out of a ditch. him to sort out all kinds of problems.” playing for Kent, England and a Before her final illness Lee worked for Ronald was still working in his 80th year. Commonwealth Volvo, delivering new cars throughout the He leaves his widow, children, five grand- touring side. country. Her friend Beryl Jones said: “Lee children and 16 great-grandchildren. Born in Stockport, Cheshire, Fred’s sporting skills included a spell as a teenage footballer signed to Stockport Serving the local community since 1985 County before The Doves Funerals team are proud to have served Kent for over 25 years. enlistment in the Our customer promise “Here for You” recognises your needs through our values: Royal Marines Trustworthy: delivering on our promises Respectful: in our treatment of you brought him to Deal, where he served as a Responsive: to your needs Accessible: to the local community Progressive: in our attitude to change PT instructor in the war. For expert advice please contact a member of our team. Fred married Kathleen, and settled locally in Deal and Ramsgate. He played for and at We are here for you 24 hours a day, for whenever you need us. times captained a strong Tovil and Bridge Maidstone: 01622 688662 Larkfield: 01732 871188 Staplehurst: 01580 892125 Mills team when he was still a talented fast Ashford: 01233 643000 Sittingbourne - Tel: 01795 431300 swing bowler and later mostly batted for St www.dovesfunerals.co.uk

32 Malling November 2015 GDS Garage Door Specialists We are a Kent based business and specialize in the Installation, supply and repair of garage doors across the South East of England. We have years of experience in the garage door industry and we are proud to have received many glowing customer recommendations for us. Along with our most popular brand Garador, we are a supplier of 7 other garage door manufacturers boasting many different types of doors in manual and automation At GDS we offer a range of designs, colours and accessories to personalise your garage door. Not only do we supply and install garage doors, we can also repair any door from any manufacturer to a top standard. We endeavour to continue building on our customer satisfaction, professional image and brand awareness by fulfilling our customers garage door needs and providing any aftercare, should you have any problems. 01634 786129 6pm onwards 07540 224938 24 hour www.garagedoorspecialists.co.uk [email protected] Find us on Snodland Fencing Clinical Hypnosis & NLP Training * Local family run Foundation and Diploma Courses starting soon business over 20 years * All Types of fencing The Kent College of Hypnotherapy & gates at very www.kentcollegeofhypnotherapy.co.uk competitive prices * FREE estimates, fast Accredited by The Hypnotherapy Association efficient & friendly Local venues and free half day taster service Small groups up to 10 students * All fencing supplied and erected For Information Contact Patricia Whitson on * No job too big or too 07711 140201 small Private appointments available Call Lee For a Free No Obligation Quote www.mindconnections.co.uk 01634-300484 or 07810-634380 139 Townsend Road, Snodland, Kent ME6 5RN Email:[email protected] The Kent College [email protected] of Hypnotherapy

Malling November 2015 33 downsmail.co.uk News Making the river work for town DRAGON-boat racing, regattas and rowing could spearhead a push to put Maidstone’s stretch of the River Medway on the map. The new destination manage- clude signs to the entrance points to ment plan for Maidstone aims to the river from the town centre, in- focus on strengthening visitor ac- vestment in footpaths with signs tivities on or close to the river, par- indicating distances to key points, ticularly near All Saints’ Church, at greater accessibility for cyclists, in- Lockmeadow and at Cobtree. vestment in moorings and parking Invicta Rowing Club and other for river visitors. river users will be asked to get in- It also wants to explore the possi- volved with Maidstone Council, bility of providing camping cabins the Medway Valley Partnership or luxury camping huts to facilitate and business owners to create a long-distance walking, canoeing programme of tourist-friendly and rowing. river-based activities such as row- Tony Monk, from Coxheath, who ing events, regattas, dragon-boat Maidstone Council and KCC seem responsibility. convened a meeting with Mrs racing and a festival of lights. to have very little interest in, de- A new River Medway Alliance Grant to discuss some of the con- The plan is music to the ears of a spite using pictures of the river in has been formed and Mr Smurth- cerns about the river, said: “If the number of local groups, including much of their literature. waite said: “Following the alliance works go ahead it will, after many the Medway River Users’ Associa- “The river is such a beautiful meeting later this month, we hope years, be a positive and very excit- tion (MRUA), which has been cam- asset and it is dramatically under- to be in a position to put forward ing step forward for Maidstone. paigning for greater use of the river used and under-resourced.” some sort of action plan for im- “Much of the riverside of Maid- for many years. The MRUA is already working provement, and will make public stone’s stretch of the Medway has, MRUA chairman Mark Smurth- with the Environment Agency and all the information regarding this.” in my opinion, been spoilt by de- waite said: “It is very encouraging other official bodies to try to im- In the meantime, the council is velopment, but there are some to see so many people in support of prove the condition of the river and proposing a programme of en- beautiful stretches and the town improving Maidstone and more surrounding areas and, with the hancements and improvements to has some superb architecture dat- importantly the river. This is a very support of MP Helen Grant, is in make the river more accessible and ing back to the 13th century along much under-used commodity that the process of identifying areas of appealing to visitors. This will in- with its varied and rich history.”

rm reports Crime TWO mountain bikes, which were chained to a wall rack, were stolen from the driveway of a home in Laxton Walk, Kings Hill. Neighbourhood Watch A car was scratched in Kingfisher Road, Larkfield. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police The kitchen window of a home in Kent Road, Snodland was smashed. A Ford Focus in Plover Road, Larkfield lotment in Ryarsh Lane, West Malling. Copper was stolen from a property in was sprayed with graffiti and dented on The roof of an outbuilding in Park Road, The Close, Birling which was in the the bonnet and boot. Leybourne was damaged, but nothing was process of being renovated. A motorbike was stolen from the drive of taken. Items were stolen from an outbuilding at a home in Snodland High Street. The bodywork was damaged on a car in a property in The Street, Ryarsh. A vehicle was moved without the Norman Road, West Malling. A residential property in Forge Lane, owner’s consent in Willow Road, A supermarket in Lake Road, Aylesford West Peckham was broken into and copper Larkfield. was broken into and cash stolen from a till. piping was stolen. A conservatory window was damaged at CCTV footage shows a white man in his A property in Garner Drive, East a home in Malling Road, Snodland. 30s, about 5ft 8in, of stocky build. Malling was deliberately damaged. There was an attempted break-in at a A Vauxhall Astra parked in Greenfield The number plates were stolen from a property in Woodpecker Road, Larkfield, Close, Eccles was damaged by vandals. vehicle in Lakeside, Snodland. but no access was gained. A shipping container was broken into in A vehicle was taken without the owner’s Fishing equipment was stolen from the Station Road, Aylesford and a nail gun consent from Winterfield Lane, East garage of a home in Amisse Drive, Snod- was stolen. CCTV footage was being Malling. land. viewed. Tools were stolen from a van parked on a A window was smashed at the village The tyre of a vehicle parked in Howick grass verge in Malling Road, Snodland. hall in Tonbridge Road, Wateringbury. Close in the Royal British Legion Village A Ford Focus parked on a driveway in A vehicle was damaged in Freelands was damaged. Queen Street, Kings Hill was scratched. Road, Snodland. A parked vehicle had its tyre damaged in Two cars were damaged on a drive in A vehicle was moved without the London Road, Ditton. Thackeray Road, Larkfield. Youths were owner’s consent in Bow Road, Watering- All four tyres were slashed on a Hyundai seen at the time. bury. parked in Howick Close in the Royal A vehicle was damaged in a car park in Three vehicles were scratched in Wood- British Legion Village. Alexander Grove, Kings Hill. land Close, West Malling. A property in Woodlands Road, Ditton A vehicle was damaged in London Road, A Toyota Auris was scratched in London was broken into and jewellery was stolen – Larkfield. Road, Leybourne. enquiries were ongoing. A window was damaged in Malling A garage and shed were broken into at a A window was damaged during an at- Road, Snodland. home in Offham Road, West Malling and tempted break-in at a home in Ragstone items were stolen. Court, in the Royal British Legion Village. Tools were stolen in a break-in at the The rear passenger window of a Vaux- PROTECT garage of a property in Bull Road, Ley- hall Astra parked in New Road, Ditton bourne. was smashed. The front window had been YOUR HOME The lock was damaged on a shed at a smashed a few days earlier. ALARMS FROM property in Offham Road, West Malling The rear window of a car was damaged £495+VAT but nothing was taken. in Kingfisher Road, Larkfield. Two tyres, four wooden pallets and gar- A window of a vehicle was smashed in ALARMS & SECURITY LTD dening equipment were stolen from an al- London Road, Ditton. 01622 880751

34 Malling November 2015 Sweet Sweeps Clean Sweep Stove, Fireplace and Chimney Specialists Brush & vacuum Wood burners and flues supplied and fitted All work insured All work certified to cover insurance Pest control available Camera inspections available Weddings attended Member of the ICS HETAS approved Contact Kevin Bovis Our services cover supply and installation of multi fuel stoves, chimney 01622 844385 sweeping service, rebuilds of chimney stacks and restorations for all stoves, log burners, fireplaces, chimneys, hearths - and more! 07885 651578 We’re available every day on: [email protected] 07936 420364 - 07854 971234

T. 01622 201078 J.L.B M.07854 529434 Property Maintenance [email protected] Quality Roofing at Affordable Prices z New Tiled Roofs z UPVC Fascias, z General Roofing Soffits & Repairs Guttering z Moss Removal z Felt Flat Roofing Annual Gutter Cleaning Service Gutters & Fascia Cleaned To A High Standard Inside And Out All Repairs z Broken Brackets Undertaken..... z Leaking Gutter Joints z Down Pipes So To Ensure Your Gutters Are Flowing Prices Start From As Little As £20.00 Blockage Free This Winter Call Our Team For A Free & Friendly Quote

Malling November 2015 35 Classiﬁeds downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk

Contact our sales team…

Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery Amy Bonney Classified Team Leader Classiﬁed Sales Executive Classiﬁed Sales Executive

E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T. 01622 630330 ext. 224 T. 01622 630330 ext. 227 T. 01622 630330 ext. 234

A Man & Van Appliance Repairs Building Plans A MAN & VAN ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCE 01634 365427 07710 772597 REPAIR SERVICE www.vanworker.co.uk with fully qualified engineer All makes of washing machines, fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, t/dryers, dishwashers, elec ovens. Follow All work guaranteed Free estimates and call out us on 01622 673113 Anytime: 07831 557677

Bathroom Installers Carpenters The complete Bathroom All aspects of Wood Works Maintenance Company CARPENTRY FULL CARPENTRY NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and fitted, Loft SERVICE FROM DECKING TO DOORS, Supply • Install • Repair Conversions, Doors hung, Locks fitted, Skirting, KITCHENS & FLOORS. Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services small alterations, ALL JOBS BIG & SMALL. Plastering and Tiling Call Gary 07738 902116 • 01622 736266 All work guaranteed. MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE ESTIMATES IN AND AROUND THE HOME Family business established 21 years Builders CALL Cliff on 01622 743648 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 01622 729092 External Property 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Maintenance z Driveways & Paving To advertise here Chimney Maintenance z Brickwork Repairs & Repointing z Fencing New and Repairs and reach over 88,000 z Groundworks and Drainage homes every month H & G Chimney Services z External Painting z Fully Insured Call our dedicated Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered Find us on Call Tremayne classiﬁed team on All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted 01622 758221 TNC Property 01622 630330 Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs 07748004252 & Landscapes 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected]

KINGSGATE CONSTRUCTION LTD Computer Services Extensions & Conversions Specialist No upfront costs - No deposit taken • Conservatories • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Driveways • Landscaping ALL BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN Fully Insured. References Available. Call Mark 07976 264231 01622 736127 [email protected]

Read all editions online at our new website www.downsmail.co.uk

36 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk Classiﬁed Electricians Garden Services cont. Handyman Services Electric Rewired Forestry First Ltd Handyman HANDYMAN The new 17th Edition wiring regs are applied No job too small No job too big or too small. We are Part P Certificated Tree Surgeons & Landscapers in Kent Competitive prices Painting & decorating, For all your Electrical needs All arboricultural tree works undertaken. Fully insured. •Painting & Decorating • Plastering all roofing works & repairs, From extra sockets to house rewiring • Tiling • Fencing chimney’s, guttering & gutter www.forestryfirst.co.uk • Laminate Flooring • Plumbing Replace old light fittings with new fittings cleaning, pressure cleaning, Call Alf for your free quote 01622 616133 General Household Maintenance. Any odd jobs considered fencing & brickwork & driveways Ring 07831 247843 or 01622 738680 Phone Lee for quotes 07554 267087/01662 807860 www.electricrewired.co.uk. 07894 138224 01622 204491 0800 4748750 Day Evenings or to leave a message [email protected] Fully insured Free from landlines

Fencing Locksmith Fence me in & alot more All types of Fencing & Gates Installed & Repairs 24 hour service locks opened All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, new locks fitted security checks Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. emergency work undertaken Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, UPVC door & window repairs Hedge Cutting etc. Maidstone & Kent Call Colin on 07521 T: 01622 755750 M: 07738 658751 377306 or 01622 853978 3 Plains Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7AT www.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk

Painting & Decorating David Matthews Fencing MALCOLM ROBERTS Over 25 years’ experience of • Free estimates & friendly advice maintaining people’s homes. • All types of fencing at • Quality Decorating at a competitive prices fair & competitive price A friendly, reliable service. • Fencing supplied and erected • Fully insured & Painting & decorating, • You talk directly to David at all references available Wall Papering, Tiling stages for your fencing • Dulux approved and all aspects of DIY. • Go on, give him a call on Tel/Fax: 01622 737225 EPIC CALL MALCOLM Phone: 01622 755342 LANDSCAPES Mobile: 07816 149502 ON 01634 308067 Mobile: 07749 202140 No job too big or small www.sr-interiors.com Mob: 07788 142576 email: [email protected] FOR A FREE QUOTATION • Fencing • Treework • Turfing • Decking • Levelling Ground • Jet Washing Service Rathbone Decorating Services • Water Features • Astroturf • Patios Painting & Decorating No job too small • Clearance • Driveways Interior & Exterior with special rates For a free site survey call: Works Undertaken for pensioners • Free Estimates • Friendly Personal Services www.wrightsfencing.co.uk 01622 527106 07788 532926 • Domestic and Commercial • Qualified Tradesman No1 Locally Since 1996 Tel 01622 721491 or Mobile: 07753 487796 Call our sales team now - 01622 630 330 Garden Services Pest Control 0$,'6721( 20% discount* /$1'6&$3(6 on production of this advert * not to be used in conjunction with any other 3523(57< offers 6(59,&(6/WG 96<;05,*65;9(*;:*(990,+6<; LANDSCAPING - Drives, Patios, Pathways, Brick/Stone Walls, Block/Stone Paving, YH[ZTPJLIPYKZZX\PYYLSZHU[Z Tarmac, Decking, Fencing, Turfing, Ponds, Water Features, Garden Clearance, Sheds/Summer & Play House Bases, Tree Surgery etc ^HZWZJVJRYVHJOLZMV_LZYHIIP[Z BUILDING WORKS - Extensions, Porches, Conservatories, Garages, Groundworks, ÅLHZTP[LZOVYUL[ZILKI\NZ Roofing, PVC Windows, Doors, Soffits, Fascias, Floor/Wall Tiling, Decorating etc FULLY INSURED/WORK GUARANTEED, VERY PROFESSIONAL/FRIENDLY SERVICE Top Quality Materials/Workmanship from design to completion - FREE ESTIMATES Tel: 01622 851222 Mob: 07786 07 01 07 E: [email protected] www.maidstonelandscapes.com WWWSABRE KENTCOM LOOK: Please check our reviews and other companies you may use at www.uktc.org HOUR Established 1990 Director: M Potter %ROBLONGSABRE HOTMAILCOM

Malling November 2015 37 Classiﬁed downsmail.co.uk Plumbing & Heating Skip Hire continued Friendly • Effecient • Reliable • Competitive NO CALL OUT CHARGE & FREE QUOTES PINBINS For all your plumbing needs Commercial and domestic General Repairs • New Taps 1-14 day hire Council approved • Toilet & Cistern Repairs Same day delivery Tipped at our site PLUMBING Bath & Shower Installation • Leaks & Fault Finding 2-4 yard mini skips 70% waste recycled 6-20 yard skips Crushed concrete Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 736266 Roll-on, roll-offs Top soil Grab hire also available

Roofing Services NEW SITE NOW OPEN Detling A1Roofing Services Aerodrome Maidstone • TILED ROOFING • FLAT ROOFING • LEAD FLASHING • PVC FASCIA / SOFFITS Freephone • FULL REPAIR SERVICE

Tel: 01622 296011 For a prompt reliable service 0800 028 49 00 Mob: 07884 180595 Email: [email protected] Trailor Hire, Sales & Repairs Skip Hire

CollectionPrompt D.T Trailer Hire-Sales-Repair Kent Trailers Fast Indespension Agent Delivery SKIP HIRE Livestock, Plant, Recovery, Van, General Purpose

Over 20 Years Experience Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 Trailers in stock, New & Used Prices from £110+VAT & 12 Yard Bins Detling Covering Maidstone & The Weald 01622 730063 [email protected] 07860 318166 01622 EA Registered 843511 Fast & Prompt Service Commercial South Belringham Yard, South Lane, Waste Collection & Domestic Sutton Valance, Kent ME17 3BD

D. BODY LTD Waste Collection

Cesspool Emptying Treatment Plants Septic Tanks Gulleys & Forecourts Drain Clearing High Pressure Jetting Sludge Removal Domestic & Commercial ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSED CARRIERS 01622 631688 24Hr - 7 Days A Week D.BODY www.dbody.co.uk Prompt & Friendly Service The Paddock, Detling Hill, Maidstone, Kent

Call our sales team now - ((01622 630 330

38 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk Classiﬁed Web Design Public Health EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS Notice & Beauty • Google Marketing / Search Engine Promotion • Web Site Design • E-Commerce Websites • Hosting • Email • Web Site Maintenance LOCAL GOVERNMENT (MISCELLANEOUS 01732 842454 PROVISIONS) Foot Health Professional ACT 1982 LICENSING OF Katherine Morton MCFHP MAFHP SEX ESTABLISHMENT Window Services Registered member of The British Notice is hereby given that an Application is being Association of Foot Health Professionals made to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council by Tracey Jane Whitmore, 4B Daroets Road, Visiting Practice Walderslade, Chatham, Kent ME5 8BH, Nail cutting and filing, corn for The renewal of a Licence for a Sex Shop at the premises known as Vibes UK Ltd, situated at and callus removal, fungal Unit 3, 2M Trade park, Beddow Way, Aylesford, nail infections, verrucas Kent ME20 7BT. and ingrowing toe nails Any comments/objections to the application Mobile: 07960 072999 should be made in writing to The Chief Solicitor Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, Gibson Home: 01732 875447 Building, Gibson Drive, Kings Hill, West Malling, [email protected] Kent ME19 4LZ, by no later than 14th December 2015.

We accept payment by Recruitment

Maidstone and Malling's No.1 Newspaper

We are currently recruiting a part time telesales person to sell advertising across our successful Downs Mail and Mid Kent Living publications and associated online products. The role will involve: • Handling inbound and making outbound calls MirandaMiranda • Developing business from existing clients DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS • Obtaining and growing new business • Canvassing from competitor publications and online products SPECIALIST REPAIRER FOR OVER 20 YEARS • Working to achieve challenging revenue targets and meeting strict deadlines on a weekly basis ALL REPAIRS GUARANTEED • Maintaining accurate and up to date records The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a similar role Misted / Broken Glass Units, and will: Door & Window Handles, • Have experience of working to sales targets Locks & Hinges • Have a conﬁdent and outgoing personality • Be determined and persuasive Patio Door Wheels & Tracks • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Have excellent communication skills SPARE PARTS SHOP • Show commitment and be a team player This is a permanent part-time position of 22.5 hours per week to be Units 15-16 Dickens Court worked Monday to Wednesday. Enterprise Close, Medway City Estate Friendly, ﬂexible, family owned business Kent ME2 4LY Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + 31 days (pro rata) annual leave 01634 717400 Email applications to the sales manager. Include your CV and a www.mdgrepairs.co.uk covering letter explaining how your experience matches the job requirements and why you would be successful in the role. [email protected] Online Advertise your unwanted items FREE - www.downsmail.co.uk

Malling November 2015 39 At GMS we only use genuine parts Specialising in VW Audi SKODA SEAT On the Road Mechanical Repairs & Maitenance • Servicing • Tuning • Air Con • Pre-MOT • Accessories fitting SILVERBACK RECOVERY • Vehicle modifications • Electric diagnostic Car recovery and transportation Main dealer trained • Independently priced Light commercial Maidstone’s Best Kept Secret Cars for scrap removed Now come and find us Competitive rates Unit 2 Gibralter Lane, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2NG CALL ROGER ON: 01622 686824 www.gmskent.co.uk 01622 813733 07740 123495 ACE M.O.T. and Clutch Centre DIY Car Parts Vehicle Maintenance, Service & M.O.T. Open Mon – Fri 8:00 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 – 12:00 and Accessories M.O.T. only Sun 9:00 – 12:00 • Cam belt kits supplied & fitted 01622 891777 • Broken belt damaged repaired • All makes, petrol & diesel PS Autoparts, Headcorn, TN27 9SH 736 London Road, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6BG www.psautoparts.co.uk Tel: 01732 870368

West Malling Garage Limited

WINTER

£20* TYRES OFF MOT When booking Now made via email * Not to be used in conjunction Available with any other offer. Quote Call for details MALLING for discounted offer

FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY within 10 miles

West Malling Garage have a fully qualified Fixed Price team of technicians, who can service, Servicing repair and MOT all makes of car. from £95 [email protected] 01732 874350 www.westmallinggarage.co.uk High Street, West Malling, Kent ME19 6QN

40 Malling November 2015 To advertise here please contact On the Road Teresa on 01622 630330 or email [email protected]

Autotune is a mobile service, with 25 years of experience, specialising in the service and repair of most makes of vehicle. Our prices are very competitive and whatever work is

required on your vehicle, it will be explained to you in full, and in a way that you will totally understand what work is required, before it is carried out.

z DIAGNOSTICS z TUNING z AIR CONDITIONING z TYRE SERVICE z SERVICING z REPAIRS z MOT AND REPAIRS z ABS PROBLEMS z ALL CAR DIAGNOSTICS z ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS We offer a friendly and professional service providing you with peace of mind when your car needs attention. Using an

independent mechanic, you will save money. We only use the best parts and top quality semi synthetic or fully synthetic oils. Autotune is located in Maidstone. So if you don’t want to pay main

dealer prices but still want the same, or better, high level of expertise, give us a call.

87 Shaftbury Drive, Maidstone, Kent ME16 0JR

07836 263 176 Email: [email protected]

AUTOSPRAY SOLUTIONS MOBILE BODY REPAIRS For the ultimate paint finish! • BUMPER SCUFFS • KEY SCRATCHES • ALLOY REFURB • VANDOLISM DAMAGE TO PAINTWORK • DENTS • MACHINE POLISHING • FULLY GUARANTEED TO MAIN DEALER STANDARD • FULLY INSURED MOBILE BODY REPAIRS FREE SCUFFS, SCRATCHES, DENTS etc ESTIMATES SAVINGS UP TO 50% COMPARED TO BODYSHOPS Fully guaranteed to main dealer standard Fully insured 15 years experience Before Before Insurance work welcome Call now for your free quotation on 01622 727263 / 07773 340049 or email After After [email protected]

Proud • 6 day operation Follow us on sponsors of • Around 1/4 of body shop price Bearsted • Reliable, professional and flexible Cricket Club Winner of Call: 07771 621 769 tradesperson of [email protected] www.touchupsltd.co.uk the year 2013

Malling November 2015 41 downsmail.co.uk

aihCouncils Parish Addington Birling leave it until it had set. Networking It had been suggested that the Seven Mile Lane Borough Cllr Mike Taylor Crime Locks on garages in Roughes Road parish and town councils of Capel, East had raised concerns with KCC about the had been damaged, a security light on a Peckham, Brenchley, Horsmonden, layout of the new roundabout. He said shed in Snodland Road had been damaged Paddock Wood, Yalding and Marden there had been a number of minor and items were stolen from an outbuilding. explore closer relations. accidents there and the block paving Masters Lane Jonathan Marchant told the Allotments The budget for site should be replaced and direction arrows meeting that it was likely that his father’s improvements was £2,500 and costs installed. KCC asked for information on property in Masters Lane would be sold as already incurred included planning any un-reported collisions there. a building plot for three houses. He asked permission and levelling the site. There Parish plan review There had been a 25% the parish council for its views on what it were five available plots. response with 73 questionnaires returned. would like to see on the plot. Twinning The clerk was thanked for her Kent Men of Trees competition The judge Defibrillator This had been installed in the help in making the visit to Chereng a had visited and seemed very impressed. village hall porch. success and the twinning association was Police report A shed had been broken into Clerk’s hours The clerk said it had taken thanked for its donation. and tools stolen in East Street. two additional hours to cover the Summer playscheme This had been Public forum Concern was expressed transparency and website work, mainly withdrawn. The borough council had been about the intensity of the lighting at due to problems with the website. unable to increase numbers and would Humphries & Parks. A member of the Footpath Cllr Helen Walker said she had review how local needs had changed. public said he would apply for four been told that the footpath by Birling Budget Suggestions for 2016/17 included detached homes on the Winsor yard site. Ashes was blocked. the next phase of the upgrade of the Jubilee Initial discussions with the borough Condolences Ian Machin, who had been a Hall, play equipment, the next phase in council suggested it would support this. member of Birling Parish Council for more village enhancements, a streetlight in The Decisions Tonbridge and Malling Council than 20 years, had passed away. The Pound and Christmas lights. had approved an application for an council expressed its condolences. extension at The Bailiff’s Coage, Park Road, Addington and refused an extension Leybourne to a garage at 4 Hazelview, East Street, East Peckham Pedestrian barrier Regarding the refusal of Addington. Community wardens Lara Sams was the Winsor car breakers An appeal had been a pedestrian barrier at the Rectory Lane new warden for East Peckham. South junction with Oxley Shaw Lane, Cllr made against the enforcement notice by Jubilee Hall Use of the hall had been Tonbridge and Malling Council alleging a Anthony Compton said the first ‘Slow’ sign reduced over the summer. Some income in Rectory Road South was to be replaced breach of planning control at the site in was recovered through the summer school. London Road. The clerk was asked to under warranty. The installation of a The annual steam clean had been carried barrier between the footpath and the road prepare a wrien submission. out and the guers had been cleared. The Pre-fabs Another enforcement notice was to be discussed with the relevant heating system had been overhauled and a official. They saw no reason to deny a against use of the site at East Street North new fire door had been installed. had been served but the owner had barrier on the south side of the lane on the Playing field Two new lier bins were to edge of the road, but they did believe there appealed. A public inquiry would be held be installed. on November 24 at Civic Suite, Kings Hill. could be a problem on the north side as it Table tennis club Cllr Serina Page had could impede a resident’s access. Open spaces A resident in East Street was sourced two tables and had interest from concerned that the branches of trees next to Horses on path A crushed stone path had 18 people. Unfortunately there was no been installed next to the football pitch and the public footpath near East Street Green evening availability at the hall. were likely to damage his greenhouse. The the MR130 footpath gate was being left Memorial bench It was agreed for a bench open, allowing horses on to the path. clerk would look into this. in memory of Roland Atkins, subject to Nativity St Margaret’s Church was likely Adoption of roads The earliest this would location and the bench being in keeping take place would be Easter 2016. This to want to erect the Nativity scene again with existing furniture. this year on Addington Green. meant there would be no speed restrictions Bollards After complaints about a at the new school. Caravan A caravan had been left next to La motorbike being ridden along the footpath, Kasa for many months. Outdoor gym The installation at The Chase playing field and Crown Acres, bollards had not been possible as the Housing and would be installed. Communities Agency had refused to lease Aylesford Toilet facilities Work would be funded the land to the parish council. An from £3,000 in the 2015/16 budget with the alternative location needed to be found Churchyard wall The cost of repairs balance being met from reserves. within eight weeks or the funding would should come from the main budget and not Fingerposts The Chidley Cross fingerpost be withdrawn by Sport England. section 137 (donations) microgrants. It was had been completed and was due to be Dog waste It was felt there were enough agreed to accept the quotation for £580 installed. The other fingerposts were close dog waste bins in the Lillieburn area and from Andrew Clarke. to completion. The signposts at the the problem arose through lack of a social Eccles car park Planning permission and junction of Church Lane with Bush Road conscience in a minority of dog owners the lease agreement had been received and needed replacing. that no amount of education or a date was set for the start of work. An CCTV The clerk had bought a tablet with enforcement could solve. Members decided additional cost of £4,000 would include a which the PCSOs could access the CCTV. that, Tonbridge and Malling Council French drain and geo-tech fabric and sharp Christmas lighting The lighting budget having refused to install an additional dog sand for hydro carbon disposal. The total would include solar-powered Christmas waste bin in Castle Way, the parish council cost would be £29,500. trees, winter/spring hanging baskets, would not fund it. Pedestrian crossing All Kent Highway festive motifs and lights on existing trees. Funding requests It was resolved to give Services criteria had been met for a Skate park Use of the playing field was £100 to Victim Support and £250 to Leyara. crossing in Bull Lane, Eccles. The estimated agreed in principle, provided there was no Bus shelter The shelter in Oxley Shaw cost was £18,000. KHS had said it was use of parish council funds. The preferred Lane between Willowmead and Lile unable to finance the project. Cllr location would be next to the street Oxley had had a broken Perspex panel for Homewood had commied half the cost snooker using the existing base of the more than a year and the damage was and the parish council agreed to fund 50% former zip wire activity. geing worse. of the cost up to £10,000. Emergency planning Kent Highway Defibrillator Cllr Homewood had agreed Services would supply road closure signs to fund one of the replacement baeries for to be stored in sandbag containers. Mereworth the Eccles Community Group defibrillator Bus shelter The contractors returned to the (£300). The group would be seeking to junction of Old Road and Crown Acres to Crime Cllr Andrew Wells said a person raise funds for the second baery. carry out repairs and concluded that a had been taken into custody after RBL request Several members agreed to helpful resident sweeping up loose tarmac intimidating two ladies cleaning the donate £2,500 for seat covers in the new was not allowing the tarmac to set. The church. A bird scarer removed from the Garden of Honour Memorial through contractor had since used a more expensive churchyard was on the dashboard of his microgrants. material and the resident was asked to locked car which was still parked outside

42 Malling November 2015 downsmail.co.uk

the church. The police apparently could been reported as needing cleaning. white lines from the junction of Pilgrims Councils Parish not obtain the car key from him. PCSOs Brickworks site The names suggested by Way/Taylors Lane all the way through to thought this might be a mental health issue the parish council had been forwarded to the junction of Park Road/Addington Lane and they could do nothing about the car Redrow. Residents had expressed concern would be refreshed. until the tax ran out. that the houses bordering Old School Lane Village gateway The bollards had been The Street It was agreed that the scheme had their front doors facing the Lane. installed. proposed by Kent Highway Services was Residents were worried that deliveries Church Lane footpath Members noted that not suitable. Cllr Jon Regan would ask that would use Old School Lane. A show home KCC would arrange for a road closure in the original white lines be reinstated. was due to open on the site in January. due course to reinstate the footpath and to Butchers Lane The clerk had wrien to the Development lighting A civil engineering carry out siding to the back of the footpath resident who had suggested that the field consultant asked if the parish council to allow full width again. opposite the Queen’s Head be made into a would take ownership of the lighting on Taylor’s Lane The highways steward had car park. The land was privately owned the former Brickworks development. The advised that any request for new signage and higher than the road so it would be parish council did not have the funds to would need to be submied to the safety expensive and difficult to make an entrance do so. It was agreed that the managing critical team. It was resolved that the clerk from Butchers Lane. agents for the development should include would write to KCC. Allotments One plot had been vacated and lighting as part of the fee for applicable Playground inspection Members had met Cllr Regan would determine whether the residents. in the play area just before the meeting to £100 deposit could be refunded. Local parking plan Councillors had consider the recommendations in the Play area The replacement footrest had received details from Tonbridge and report following the RoSPA inspection. been delivered and re-fied to the spring Malling Council of a request to change the None of the equipment was deemed to be motorcycle. parking arrangements on the A20 London high risk. It was agreed to prepare a Footpaths The path from Willow Wents to Road at the end of the footpath from West programme of remedial works for The Street had been cleared. MR226 from Malling for pedestrians crossing at the end consideration at the next meeting. Kent Street to Beech Road had still not of the path. The parish council did not Allotments It was agreed that the been cleared. think more road markings were needed. contractual arrangements for the Grazing land The leaseholder of the land Village hall Members considered a request allotments needed to be reviewed. It was at Kent Street had asked if the parish for a donation to pay for maintenance unclear who owned the boundaries of the council would be prepared to sell the land works on the village hall including re- allotments. The clerk was to report back at and had noted that fencing needed repair. fixing and framing doors, overhauling the the next meeting. It was agreed that the land would not be French doors and ventilation units. It was Tree warden Members were delighted to sold as it was an important community agreed to pay £1,249. hear that resident Neil Moulton had asset. The cost of re-fencing would result in Salt bag Kent Highway Services had volunteered to be a tree warden for the the rental of the land being no longer offered a one tonne salt bag for the village. village. It was agreed to support him viable and as the parish council could not It was agreed that this should be delivered where possible and noted that his activities guarantee the safety of the livestock it was to the village hall. were fully covered by the scheme’s agreed not to continue with the agreement Footpath The path next to Park Farm Road insurance. and to give one month’s notice to the between Chapel Street and Workhouse Maps Cllrs John Wickham and Jenny tenant. Once the land had been properly Lane needed clearing of vegetation. The Dickson were planning to prepare maps to fenced, a revised rental could be fixed. clerk would contact the owner. show the position of all the definitive Queen’s Head The pub was for sale. It was Sign obscured The “No Right Turn” sign footpaths, bridleways and other noted that the pub was not busy after was obscured on Bull Road approaching information such as dog waste bins and 7pm. It was felt that the lack of a car park the bypass roundabout. However, the lier bins as a record for the parish council. rendered the pub unviable. Cllr Olden felt parish council felt the volume of traffic it would need a lot of money and travelling and the two sets of traffic lights development to make it successful. made it safer for traffic to be allowed to Wateringbury access the Grange from Bull Road at that Cemetery Additional work on trees would right turn. Birling Parish Council should be be carried out. Oam asked to look into changing this. Crime report A man was arrested at the Speed checks Vehicles were travelling the Play area Maintenance works needed to be junction of Bow Road/Tonbridge Road in wrong way along North Meadow. carried out. connection with a burglary at the Phone box Tonbridge and Malling Council Stables plan The application to create a hairdressers which had a window had agreed that the parish council could storage unit at Ryarsh Farm Livery Stables smashed. There was a burglary at the yard adopt the phone box on Teston Road. had been refused. in Red Hill where assorted plumbing Councillors planned to install a fiings, brass and copper had been defibrillator and shelve the kiosk for a removed. A large amount of discarded book share scheme. Troiscliffe tyres were set alight on a farm in Canon Calendars Almost half the 2016 calendars Police report The gates had been forced Lane. An empty bole of fire ignition fuel had been sold. They were available for £5 open at a stable in Horns Lane, Mereworth was found nearby. A report of loud music from Wendy Williams, or by emailing and a white Ford Transit van had been near the crossroads was received and o[email protected]. stolen from a farm in Oam. environmental health details were given to Landfill site Councillors were concerned Defibrillator A decision to pay the village the informants. about the lack of maintenance on the hall commiee’s preferred electrician £315 Greensted Members of the public were landfill site. to install the defibrillator was ratified. asked for their views on the proposed Website The clerk said there had been demolition of Greensted care home. teething problems which had not been Discussions involved the size of the Ryarsh resolved as the KCC administrator had proposed new building, parking, amounts Dog bin The bin at the end of footpath been off work. of traffic and the upheaval for current MR149 had been moved. Village sign There was a request to residents. The parish council has objected Phone kiosk The BT kiosk had been relocate the village sign from the duck to the scheme. adopted by the parish council and the pond. However the ownership of the sign Playing fields The council agreed to phone removed. Councillors were to and the strip of land next to the duck pond employ RSS, a company that will carry out consider maintenance and how the kiosk and next to the road remained unclear. The regular inspections of the play equipment could be used. decision to move the sign was deferred. In and also maintain it. A site meeting was Godfreys This was no longer owned by the the meantime the clerk would carry out held with Abacus to look at replacing the Neville Estate but the owner would be investigations. existing bark surface at the play equipment asked to cut back the vegetation. White lines There was a request to refresh area with wet pour. The cost could be in Manhole cover Kent Highways Services the white lines on Taylors Land and the region of £38,000. It was agreed to look had looked at the cover outside Scannells Addington Lane. The highways steward at the cost of replacing bark over the next Coage but it did not rale. had advised that the work would be years to see which would be most cost Layby The layby on Workhouse Road had completed by the end of November. The effective.

Malling November 2015 43

Ice Skating In The Park Friday 20 November ‘15 – Sunday 3 January ‘16 Tunbridge Wells at Christmas RTW_Xmas #twskateson RTW_Xmas #twskateson www.tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

Supported by

TW666 Photo courtesy of Jez Timms

Downs Mail is published by Mail Publications Ltd (President — Dennis Fowle, Chairman — Claire Procter, Editor — Stephen Eighteen, Sales Manager — Bill Brett) 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT 01622 630330 www.downsmail.co.uk email: [email protected] Printed by Newbury News.