downsmail.co.uk
MallingMalling EditionEdition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE
August 2017 No. 244
News Women’s teams take to the crease Church loo burned HISTORY has been made at Vandals leave village Town Malling Cricket Club with without a public toilet 3 the formation of a women’s sec- tion. Based at the club in Norman Our beautiful Tansy Road, West Malling, the TMCC Family pays tribute after their Swans and the Pens (pictured daughter’s tragic death here with mascots) played for the in New York 5 first time in a women’s soft ball tournament at Farningham. The Swans reached the final, only to Litter contract ends lose by just three runs. A CONTROVERSIAL contract Coach Anna Tunnicliff, who with Maidstone’s litter also runs TMCC's All Stars and wardens has ceased under 9s, said: "This is just the 17 beginning as we look to develop women and girls cricket.” Lane ‘chaos’ - MP HERMITAGE Lane works to ease congestion will cause Health changes to “utter chaos”, says MP 18 ease hospital load MASSIVE changes to improve health care and ease pressure on hospitals are on the way for Maidstone, Malling and West Kent. Obituaries 30 Faced with challenges of an in- about cancer care – late diagnosis in creasing and ageing population, the By Dennis Fowle particular – and access to services Comment 32 budget-holding GP-led NHS West and poor outcomes for the mentally Kent Clinical Commissioning Group Surveys and consultations showed ill. Parish Councils 40-41 (CCG) says primary health care is the public supports hubs - main con- The CCG says the local care model “extremely fragile in some areas”. cerns were about time and distance also needs to: Crime Reports 41 A key change will see GP practices to travel, especially by public trans- Educate the population to moni- scaled up to work in clusters or fed- port. tor, improve and manage their own LOCKS were glued on a shed in erations (four clusters have been The CCG wants to close gaps in health and promote self-care; Eccles; a house was broken into in formed by GPs for Maidstone Cen- services with poor outcomes, espe- Co-ordinate and integrate health Leybourne; someone smashed the tral, East Maidstone, Weald and cially for long-term conditions and and social care services; windscreen of a parked vehicle in Malling) with many providing a frailty. Local hospitals are not al- Provide an easy access service – East Malling; a pedal cycle was much wider range of treatments and ways best to care for the frail, but an alternative to A&E attendance; taken from a bike rack in Larkfield; items were stolen from the trailer services. services outside hospital are not al- Provide short-term care on hos- of a parked lorry in Snodland. In addition, local care hubs could ways able to cope. Every day more pital discharge for independent liv- be based in larger buildings to de- than 1,000 people are in Kent hospi- ing in own residence; liver a range of services that do not tals who could be elsewhere if serv- Avoid referrals where possible need a hospital setting but serve a ices were available. with easier specialist opinions for Town Talk population bigger than GP clusters. The CCG is particularly concerned GPs; A SNODLAND couple say they Position mental health staff con- are fed up with crumbling road sistently in all care settings to direct surfaces, damaged kerbs and and support care for patients. weed-infested footpaths in their The CCG recognises it has to in- neighbourhood and have started a crease capacity in several areas and campaign for improvements – see overcome current high levels of staff Town Talk in this month’s Downs Mail. The bi-monthly independ- vacancies, turnover and skill short- YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT ent magazine is dedicated to ages. [email protected] Snodland and Halling residents. 01622 690290 Health special, pages 24 & 25 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent Home Alarms supplied and fitted visit www.amiga.co.uk or call 08000 199622 THINNER’S A WINNER IN WORKTOPS Louise Milliken explains the benefits of Origina® for a stunning new look...
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2 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Help to make Loo blaze leaves church poppy carpet THE Royal British Legion is invit- ing people in Malling to get out visitors inconvenienced their knitting needles to create a carpet of poppies to commemorate ARSONISTS who destroyed a this year’s Remembrance Day. portable toilet at an East Malling The challenge to create an artistic church have left the area without patchwork of poppies has been set a convenience. by the charity and Tonbridge and The cabin in the churchyard – Malling Council. which was open for anyone to use – Knitters or crocheters can add was set ablaze in an arson attack their poppies to the remembrance late on July 24 and discovered by a carpet by dropping them off at jogger the following morning. Larkfield or Snodland library. Now the church has said it can- The completed tapestry will go not afford to replace it. Father Nick Williams, the rev- on show at Tonbridge Castle on erend at St James the Great and a October 27, to mark the start of the former Met police officer of 30 RBL Poppy Appeal. It is hoped that Father Nick Williams at St James the years, understands the cost of re- the poppy carpet will also go on placing the toilet will be £800 and Great Church and above, the toilet show around the borough to mark while it was insured, there is an ex- toilets in the churchyard are still attending the church altogether. Armistice Day on November 11 cess of £200. some time off. It is not the first time the church and Remembrance Sunday on No- He says the arson attack has left Father Williams said: “We have has been the target of criminals. vember 12. the congregation without a much- raised enough to start the work and Last Easter, Father Williams chased Poppies can be of any size and used facility and facing an in- have received planning permission, a thief who made off with a collec- follow any pattern, with ideas creased insurance premium. but we still need final approval tion tin. available on the Royal British Le- He said: “We’ll have mums from the church authorities and we Kent Police said no arrests have gion website. Help is also needed changing babies’ nappies on the don’t know when that will come.” been made.Officers believe the to piece the poppies together. nave floor. Although we look like a He added the landlords of the crime was committed in Church Contributions need to be handed well-off church, our finances tell a King and Queen pub have been Walk between midnight on Sun- in by Monday, October 23. If you very different story and we have to “very kindly” allowing people day, July 23, and 7am the following can help attach the poppies or have work hard to raise money for what- caught short to use their loos. day. Anyone with information spare red and black wool, email ever we need.” The priest is worried that the should call 01622 604100 quoting [email protected] or call 01732 Plans for a new block containing vandalism might deter people from crime reference YY/20703/17. 876008.
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Malling August 2017 3 News downsmail.co.uk Vicars join the fun at Picnic THOUSANDS flocked to the fifth Vicar’s Picnic music festival at Yalding, which kicked off with its own “rocking rev” – a set from the village priest Paul Kish and his band the Devil’s Cut Combo. As the double bass-playing cler- gyman took to the stage, the clouds parted to reveal heavenly blue skies – the start to two days of toe-tap- ping sounds, fabulous food, arts, crafts and comedy, plus activities to keep the children amused. Friday’s headline act was From the Jam, with Bruce Foxton,who was as energetic as the days when he and Paul Weller packed stadi- ums in the 1970s and ‘80s. On Saturday night, headliners The Fratellis got everyone dancing. Among the crowd enjoying the music was soap star Melanie Hill (Coronation Street’s Cathy Matthews), who was visiting friends in Yalding. Rev Paul Kish in Devil’s Cut Combo New this year was the artist’s and right, Corrie actress Melanie Hill quarter, where festival laureate Matt Chamberlain headed an im- was at the festival with friends pressive list of local poets who per- award-nominated event, attracting formed throughout the weekend. crowds of thousands? For the scores of campers, the fun “We’re proud to say that the continued in the Secret Disco, with Vicar’s Picnic is now firmly estab- FNUK, Seb Fontaine, Darren Jay lished on the festival scene. It’s and a host of other DJs. quite remarkable what can be The festival, organised by volun- achieved when a team pulls to- teers, attracted more than 3,200 gether – but it wouldn’t have been people to the sleepy Kentish village possible without the hard work of for a weekend of family fun. a committed bunch of dedicated Festival co-founder Dave King villagers and supporters.” said: “Who would have thought This year’s event was supporting that something which started with Dandelion Time, the Maidstone- a group of friends in a neighbour’s based charity which works with garden would now be a multi vulnerable children. Lo o cash for Perfume thief group project spared prison CHARITIES and community A WOMAN who shoplifted groups in Maidstone and the beauty and electrical items worth Weald are being urged to apply for more than £500 from The Mall in part of a massive £3m funding pot. Maidstone and drove while dis- The People’s Postcode Lottery’s qualified has been spared a Dream Fund is inviting groups to prison sentence. apply for cash for their project. Amie Rose-Marie Frankham This year’s prize fund is the (28), was sentenced on July 5, largest ever, with a top award of 2017, at Mid Kent Magistrates’ £1million. No organisation from Court. Maidstone or the Weald has yet She pleaded guilty to driving benefited from this boost. while disqualified, driving with- Maidstone and the Weald MP School hits library target out insurance and shoplifting. On August 30, 2016, Frankham, Helen Grant believes this could be WATERINGBURY CE Primary School is celebrating after raising the of Eccleston Court, Maidstone, the perfect chance for her con- £115,000 needed to replace its library roof and windows less than 12 stole perfume, beauty items and stituents to get creative, adding: “I months after launching a major capital fundraising appeal. electrical items valued at £507.42 have been lucky enough to visit The school in Bow Road successfully bid for £81,000 funding from the from a shop in The Mall, Maid- many charities and community Diocese of Rochester and the rest of the money was raised by the school stone. projects and have seen for myself community, village organisations and local businesses. The cheque for On March 16, 2017, she drove a some of the fantastic work that is £2,500 was handed over by the Friends of Wateringbury Primary School Ford Fiesta in Woodside Road, being done. from fundraising events organised by parents. Maidstone, while disqualified “This is a chance to step that up a Plans are now being drawn up for the project, which will also include and with no insurance. level and to make an impact that better heating ventilation, lights and furniture. It is hoped work can start Magistrates sentenced her to 60 could last a lifetime.” before Christmas. days in prison, suspended for 12 The Dream Fund has invested Headteacher Chasey Crawford Usher said: “We are thrilled to have months, and ordered her to carry more than £7.3m in 24 UK projects. reached our target so quickly. Local businesses have supported us with out 100 hours of unpaid work in Groups are invited to apply at substantial donations and even the children have helped with the next 12 months. She must also www.postcodedreamtrust.org.uk fundraising initiatives. It’s been a real community effort. This project will pay a £120 fine, £170 costs and a by Tuesday, August 22. Winners ensure the library continues to inspire children to love reading.” will be announced in January. £145 victim surcharge.
4 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Design student dies in bed fall Sleep like a king A FAMILY from Trottiscliffe have without spending a ransom spoken of the tragic accident that took the “full and fun-filled” life of talented daughter and sister Enjoy 3 years interest-free credit Tansy Stowell. Tansy, pictured, who moved to on our complete range of luxury beds New York to fulfil her dream of de- signing hats, died after falling from a raised bed at her Brooklyn loft apartment. £30 The beautiful 28-year-old, noted for her flamboyant purple hair, had only returned from a night out with her per month boyfriend before the accident. He found her with head injuries but she could not be saved. Her mum Sally – a church war- den in Trottiscliffe – dad Stephen, sister Holly and brother Jonathan we would love as many of her described Tansy as “one of a kind”, friends to join us as possible.” adding: “We are heartbroken. Tansy studied at the University “She was living the most fantas- for the Creative Arts in Maidstone tic, full and colourful life, with her and graduated in 2011. She re- New York friends and family cently completed further studies at only around her. She packed more into per month Columbia University where she her 28 years than most of us will in was hoping to study for a PhD. £45 a lifetime. She truly lived life to the Rev Linda Shuker, from Trot- max and we are so very honoured tiscliffe church, said: “The commu- to have been a part of her world as nity and the church at St Peter and her parents, sister and brother.” St Paul offer the family our condo- They have asked for stories and lences and prayers at this very sad anecdotes to be posted on Tansy’s time.” web page, which they hope to use Mourners who attended her fu- at a local event to celebrate her life, neral in America, at Fresh Pond probably on her birthday – Sep- Crematorium on July 31, wore pur- tember 21. The family said: “De- ple as a tribute to the young girl tails will follow in due course, and with the same coloured hair.
Village to hold jumble trail £45 only ECCLES will hold its first Jumble “It promises to be a really fun Trail next month. community event.” per month The concept will see a safari of It follows a similar successful stalls set up around the village and event in Wouldham. neighbouring Burham where More than 20 stalls are expected villagers can sell their unwanted to take part, within a two-mile items from their doorstep. radius of Eccles village centre, Gayle Wallace, from Mackenders along Bull Lane, Pilgrims Way and Close in Eccles, came up with the Rochester Road to Burham. idea. She said: “Less than a week The sale, on Saturday, after I suggested having a jumble September 2, runs from 10am to trail I had 13 stalls booked. You 3pm. There is also a chance for can take part on your own or share visitors who visit the most stalls to a stall with a neighbour. You can win a hamper full of goodies. sell to raise money for charity, it's For more details on the trail, visit THE SUMMER SALE entirely up to you! www.jumbletrail.com. ENDS BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY
Banned van driver is jailed Hypnos 150cm Stratus Divan Set As Above A MOTORIST from West Malling, who drove his van while serv- (Headboard optional extra) ing a driving ban, has been jailed. Robert Joseph Donovan was sentenced to 197 days in prison after Cash Price £1519, deposit £439, 36 monthly payments he admitted two counts of driving while disqualified and without of £30. Total payable £1519. Subject to status. insurance on May 23 and 25. The 43-year-old, from Aldon Lane, was driving a Ford Transit in Credit subject to acceptance. Lavender Road, East Malling, when he was stopped. He was sentenced at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Court on July 12 to a further driving ban of 27 months and ordered to pay a £115 victim 01622 753073 | clarkesfurnishers.co.uk surcharge. Visit us at Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF
Malling August 2017 5 News downsmail.co.uk Co-op extension at pub approved
THE Co-op has gained approval to turn a derelict pub in the centre of Snodland into a supermarket, de- spite objections by residents, traders and councillors. The decision by Tonbridge and Malling Council will mean that the Co-operative Group will close both its stores in the town when the new shop opens in the former Bull pub- lic house on the corner of the High ments with a loading bay by the bus From left, Olivia Carslaw, Tallulah Parsons and Chloe Andrews Street and Holborough Road. stop in Holborough Road. The Co-op acquired a 20-year The original application by the Co- lease on the building when it closed op had the deliveries being made three years ago and planned to close from the car park at the back of the Students shine at Prom its branch at 46 High Street, which building. THE annual Prom for year 11 pupils at secondary schools in the Malling includes the post office, and retain The council said: "We cannot see a area was held at Bradbourne House, East Malling. the store on the opposite side of the valid reason why the delivery The evening started with the arrival of a fleet of splendid vehicles, road at 11 High Street. However, the arrangements have been changed.” including a Lamborghini, a gold Bentley, three VW camper vans, a group announced earlier this year It added that the enlargement of double decker open-topped bus and an American breakdown truck. that it would be seeking planning the floor space would mean Sunday Sue Bell, from Holmesdale School, Snodland, said the girls looked permission for an extension to the trading laws come into effect, and stunning in their dresses of various colours and most of the boys wore Bull, and if approved, the store could the Co-op had not considered the suits complemented with colourful ties. open by the end of 2017/early 2018. amount of usage received after 4pm "The evening had a real buzz about it and everyone was excited from The two smaller stores would then on a Sunday. start to finish," she said. "There was plenty of entertainment throughout close and the post office would relo- Gilda Waugh, of Queens Avenue, the evening, which enables students to celebrate friendships forged cate to the new shop. said: “I think it’s appalling. They through their time at Holmesdale and for teachers to thank them for all Snodland Town Council wel- have not listened to the people in their hard work. comed the refurbishment of the old this town. We are going to have big "We hope the Prom has created memories that will last a lifetime and pub, but objected to the proposed lorries parked outside – it’s going to we wish all our year 11 students good luck for the future." changes to the delivery arrange- cause havoc from a safety aspect.” WINDOWS & DOORS REQUIRING T.L.C? DON’T REPLACE THEM MAINTAIN THEM! MAINTAINING YOUR EXISTING WINDOWS & DOORS IS CONSIDERABLY MORE COST EFFECTIVE AND MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY THAN REPLACING. UPGRADING TO ENERGY EFFICIENT BFRC A & B RATED GLASS WILL HELP SAVE YOU MONEY ON BILLS. Fairdeal are local specialists in the repair, upgrade and maintenance of double glazed windows and doors. We repair PVCu, Aluminium & Timber Fogged double glazed Local Authority Approved glass units - replaced NO Call out charge with with energy rated glass Free Quotations & Advice Handles & mechanisms repaired & replaced We were pleased with the work Fairdeal Windows previously carried out on our porch, so we Window and door hinges went back to them for windows. We are very pleased with the windows and the installers. We and stays “ couldn't fault the work they carried out plus they left everything clean and tidy. Thanks to all Leak and draught repairs the staff too. ” Mr H. - Snodland We supply & install windows, doors & conservatories including UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering Call 01622 902005 FOR FAST FRIENDLY QUOTES & ADVICE www.fairdealwindows.co.uk Celebrating over 25 years of continuous trading Find us at: Unit K, Orchard Business Centre, 20/20 Industrial Estate, Aylesford, Kent ME16 0JZ
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6 Malling August 2017 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk
Malling August 2017 7 News downsmail.co.uk Inspector agrees Local Plan MAIDSTONE’S Local Plan “is sound and capable of adoption”, according to planning inspector Robert Mellor’s final report. Mr Mellor’s 71-page summary of- schedules of the proposed modifi- at the Invicta Barracks site in Maid- the council, Keith Young said: fers little different to his interim cations and carried out sustainabil- stone. “Valuable lessons must be learned findings of a few months ago. ity appraisal of them. On Woodcut Farm, Mr Mellor from the sad mistakes they have A small reduction in housing by Under the sections for “housing states: “Modifying the policy for the ploughed on with, right up to the 800-900 homes in Maidstone Bor- need and supply”, he says “the ob- strategic employment site at Wood- final version. ough Council’s plan for 18,000 new jectively-assessed housing need is cut Farm to reduce its impact on the “All in all, a disgraceful waste of houses by 2031 is the main change. reduced and the backlog is to be ad- landscape and on heritage assets public effort and ratepayers’ money A letter from MBC’s strategic dressed over 10 years in order to whilst safeguarding office provi- that will wreak havoc on Maidstone planning department states: “The smooth the trajectory with a further sion. Modifying policy for employ- for the next 20 years and will be re- report concludes that subject to review of housing needs to form ment development in economic gretted far longer as we sink under main modifications, the Local Plan part of the intended review of the development areas in the country- a blanket of unsustainable new is sound and is capable of adop- Local Plan as set out in the submit- side and for development involving housing, largely where it is not tion.” ted plan but with a target adoption the expansion of existing rural busi- needed at prices the vast majority of The report takes in the council’s date brought forward to April nesses.” homeless or newly working families responses to Mr Mellor’s indications 2021”. For Yalding, he says: “Remove the cannot possibly afford to buy or after evidence heard at the public in- Housing allocation at New Line residential and employment alloca- rent.” quiry last year. Learning and Boughton Lane are tion at the former Syngenta Works County Cllr Gary Cooke said: “It’s Mr Mellor said the council had deleted because of traffic worries; in Yalding for reasons of flood risk a missed opportunity in the sense asked him to recommend main Lenham’s house-building is to be whilst retaining a policy to allow for that it doesn’t have at its heart an in- modifications necessary to allow the determined by the Neighbourhood other uses that can be shown to be tegrated transport strategy for a re- plan to be adopted. Following the Plan or in the Local Plan Review and compatible with that location.” lief road (for south Maidstone) at hearings, the council prepared there will be a reduction in housing Resident and long-time critic of the soonest opportunity.” Old pounds to help a hospice HEART of Kent Hospice is hoping to encourage people to donate their old £1 coins to charity before the familiar round pound ceases as legal tender on October 15. The Coins for Care campaign is asking the public to empty their piggy banks, loose change jars, and look down the backs of their sofas to support the 1,300 patients with ter- minal illnesses cared for by the Aylesford hospice each year. Chief executive Sarah Pugh said: “We depend on the public every bit as much as they do on us, that’s why we hope people will get behind the hospice and make their old £1 coins Ramblin’ Man rocks Mote Park really count.” Supporters can donate their coins MORE than 20,000 rock fans faced at the Heart of Kent’s 14 charity heavy showers with a smile to watch bands including Saxon, shops; at the Heart of Flavour café in Festival-goers King Street, Maidstone, or by taking Extreme and ZZ Top at this year’s Ramblin’ Man Fair in Mote Park. came from all them into the Hospice in Aylesford. over the world There will also be official collectors This was the first year the event to Mote Park in in Fremlin Walk on September 9. has been held over three days (Friday-Sunday), with four stages Maidstone for offering back-to-back bands to suit the Ramblin’ Knife offence all tastes from rock to rising talent, Man Fair, with A MAIDSTONE man has been and international offerings many dressing placed under curfew for possessing including Finnish country band for the occasion. a knife. Steve 'n' Seagulls. Pictures: Andy Paul James Palmer (53) was sen- While this year’s event – the third Archer tenced on July 7 at Mid Kent Magis- in Maidstone – may prompt some trates’ Court where he pleaded complaints, one resident from because it was so loud. This time, I Saturday night country headliner guilty to the offence. Grove Green, who was kept awake could hear it, but not every word Kenny Wayne Shepherd. On June 16, Palmer, of St Philip’s by the festival last year, said this like last year.” Traders in Maidstone and those Avenue, had a lockable knife in year’s noise levels were less The Downs Mail was on site offering hotel and Airbnb rooms to Maidstone High Street. invasive. Organisers were forced to throughout the festival and heard concert-goers were also among He was sentenced to 60 days in respond to complaints last year from fans who had travelled to the those to benefit. prison, suspended for 12 months, about excessive noise. event from as far afield as Organisers say they will return to with a 90-day curfew to remain at The young mum, from Barncroft Freemantle in Australia, the Orkney Maidstone slightly earlier in 2018, home between 8pm and 6am daily. Road, said: “Last year, we were Islands and one woman who came from June 30-July 1, with early bird He must also pay £85 costs and a forced to keep the windows shut from Glasgow specifically to see tickets already on sale. £115 victim surcharge.
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Malling August 2017 9 News downsmail.co.uk Pupils race for cancer research PUPILS and staff at Snodland Church of England Primary School took part in a charity “Race4Life” at Potyns Sports- ground. Everyone completed the 1k race and each child received a medal. More than £2,200 was raised for Cancer Research UK. It is the third year the school has taken part in the event and has now donated more than £10,000. £100k bus cash brings dilemma MALLING bus users have been However, the county council says turned to Redrow Homes.” Linda Passmore adding: “This is the presented with a “use it or lose it” the number 58 Arriva service is The public is now being asked only bus service to go directly to the dilemma over a £100,000 windfall. heavily subsidised and introducing what route should be taken. Ryarsh hospital. Already it’s only about four The cash offer from developer a more frequent Monday-Friday Parish Council chairman David times a day. If you are ill it means Redrow Homes would increase the “Ryarsh Flyer” would mean passen- Storey said: “It is the universal prob- going into town and back out again, frequency of bus services to villages, gers changing or taking the train to lem of rural buses requiring bums making a half-hour journey into a including Ryarsh and Addington, get into Maidstone or to the hospital. on seats to make them viable. It one hour journey. Why can't it ter- but would mean buses terminating KCC adds: “The intention is that seems that a guaranteed service for minate at the hospital?” in West Malling. A second option any service would become commer- 12 months, with links into Maid- The public had until August 11 to suggests leaving the direct service cially viable once the money has stone via the bus stops and train sta- make their comments known to the into Maidstone Hospital and town. been exhausted because our budget tion in West Malling may be the county council, with responses The money - known as section 106 for socially necessary bus services is better option. promised from organisation includ- cash - was made available as part of fully utilised. “The current Ryarsh service is in- ing Ryarsh Parish Council and East the planning approval for Ryarsh “If it is not possible to agree a suit- frequent, but, hopefully, if it is more Malling Matters Facebook group, Brickworks, with the proviso that it able use for the section 106 money, frequent it will be used more widely run by local Lib Dems. A final deci- be used to improve bus services to the planning process dictates that and this will ensure its future.” sion will be taken by KCC’s trans- Ryarsh. the full amount will have to be re- Opinions remain divided, with port cabinet member. Ns Flooring
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10 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News
KCC vision for smaller parks THE possibility of handing over including one at Blue Bell Hill. the management of smaller coun- In its strategy document, which try parks to community groups or is out for public consultation until wildlife charities is being consid- September 11, KCC says: “Some of ered by the county council. our sites have more potential than It is just one vision of the future others to deliver a quality country set out in the Kent Country Parks parks experience, deliver health Strategy, which looks at how the outcomes, increase visitor numbers county council will protect and and generate income. manage these public assets over “For example, some of the the next four years. Goals include smaller sites don’t have a car park increasing visitor numbers from or basic visitor facilities such as toi- Buying,Buying, sellingselling last year’s 1.6m, as well as off-peak lets. This doesn’t reduce their local use, through partnerships with or- importance but we feel that they ganisations, schools and health may benefit from being managed service providers. by local community organisations oorr both?both? It also wants to enhance the abil- or wildlife charities. ity of country parks to pay for “Therefore, we will consider al- themselves, suggesting that some ternative management arrange- Whitehead Monckton solicitors can help smaller sites, with few facilities, are ments for some of our smaller not best placed to contribute as the countryside sites, with any you complete all the legal steps, whether squeeze on budgets continues. changes to management arrange- The county council currently ments dependent on securing ap- you’reyou’rree buying or sellingsel a prproperty.operty. manages nine principal sites: propriate safeguards regarding Teston Bridge Country Park (pic- land management standards and We take pride in offffering a no-nonsense approach to tured); White Horse Wood, Thurn- continued public access to these ham; Manor Park Country Park, valued community assets. what can sometimes be a frustrating process, helping West Malling; Brockhill Country “Any proposal would also be Park, Hythe; Grove Ferry Picnic subject to public consultation.” ensure your transaction is completed as quickly and Site, Canterbury; Trosley Country To comment on the document go smoothly as possible. Park, Meopham; Pegwell Bay to www.kent.gov.uk/country- Country Park; Shorne Woods; and parksstrategy, email alternative- Recognised by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Lullingstone Country Park at [email protected] or call 03000 Eynsford, with five smaller sites, 421553. Accreditation Scheme, a requirement for some mortgage lenders to use the same solicitors. Nightingales in meadows Contact us today MANY thanks to reader Andrew Fletcher who took this photograph of a nightingale singing in Marden Meadows recently. Canterbury 01227 643250 Mr Fletcher responded to a Downs Mail article in which Leeds residents Maidstone 01622 698000 David and Monica Wratten said they had heard the migratory songbird in TTeTenterdenenterden 01580 765722 their village for the first time in decades this summer. www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk He said: “I was there to photo- graph the orchids and not birds, so WWhiteheadhitehead MoncktonMonckton LimitedLimited (no.(no. 08366029),08366029), registeredregistered inin it’s not a good shot or very close. It EnglandEngland & WWales.ales. was only when I got back home that RegisteredRegistered officeoffice 7722 KKinging SStreet,treet, MMaidstone,aidstone, KKent,ent, ME14ME14 1BL.1BL. AuthorisedAuthorised andand regulatedregulated byby thethe SolicitorsSolicitors RegulationRegulation AAuthorityuthority underunder I realised what they were. There no.no. 608279.608279. were certainly two, and maybe, three of them.” Picture: Andrew Fletcher Photography DM/1
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12 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News MP Tom to head Children go wild at park HUNDREDS of families enjoyed pond-dipping, orienteering and mini- beast hunting during a free wildlife activity day and art workshop at Leybourne Lakes Country Park. select commi ee The park’s rangers led activities for children, who enjoyed exploring the park, spotting the creatures that live there and getting their hands TOM Tugendhat MP has been ap- leave the EU, so foreign policy is dirty making bird pointed chairman of the House of going to be vitally important.” feeders using lard and Commons Foreign Affairs Select Mr Tugendhat (44) succeeded Sir seed, which they took Committee, just two years after John Stanley in 2015 and was re- home to hang in their first being elected to parliament. elected as the member for Ton- gardens. The role of the Foreign Affairs Se- bridge and Malling in June this year. Representatives lect Committee – which will have He spent his early post-university from the Medway five Conserva- career as a soldier, rising to the rank Valley Countryside tives, five of Lieutenant Colonel by 2013. Partnership hosted Labour and Before entering parliament he stalls, giving the one SNP on acted as a military adviser to the children the chance to the panel – is to Chief of the Defence Staff, General press flowers, take part scrutinise the Lord (David) Richards and was a in natural arts and work of the diplomat in Afghanistan. crafts and have their government Mr Tugendhat added: “We have faces painted. The and ensure that to ask what ‘global Britain’ actually SWS Woodland views of MPs are reflected in policy. means. We need to work out where Conservation team Mr Tugendhat, pictured, topped we are going to invest, what our pri- was also on hand to the ballot of MPs from all political orities are going to be and build for- demonstrate parties, and is the first member of eign policy around that.” traditional woodland the 2015 or 2017 intake of MPs to The MP said that while the select crafts and give visitors have been elected to chair a major committee has “a lot of influence” in the opportunity to try select committee. shaping foreign policy, the chair- tools such as a two-man saw and a wood lathe. He said: “I’ll be trying to focus on man only has some. Cllr Maria Heslop, Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council’s cabinet matters specific to the UK. He added: "I am honoured to member for community services, said: “I would like to say a big thank “Foreign policy can be seen as a have been elected to this important you to everyone who helped to organise this magical wildlife activity bit esoteric and irrelevant to people, post, scrutinising the government to day, which really captured the imagination of the children. but foreign policy will determine ensure our foreign policy works. “In particular, I’d like to mention the Leybourne Lakes Conservation how we succeed as a country over This will enable me to champion the Volunteers who put in a tremendous effort to help the rangers run the the next generation. The country has views expressed in parliament, es- activities and man the stalls.” taken a very radical decision to pecially those of our community.” For all your bathroom needs www.tdlonline.co.uk Please quote DM30 to receive a 30% discount on new quotes and orders placed. Not to be used in conjunction with other offers. Valid until end August 2017.
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Malling August 2017 13 News downsmail.co.uk Pervert jailed for Fremlin backtracks ‘appalling’ abuse in parking fee row THE firm behind a massive hike in centre borough councillor Clive Eng- A SEX offender from Maidstone responsible for the systematic abuse of parking charges at Fremlin Walk lish. He said the government deci- three children has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. has backed down and reinstated sion to raise the rates on car parks Martyn Waller repeatedly targeted the old pricing system. was “very strange” when High his victims between 2000 and 2012, Drivers found charges at the 760- Street visitor numbers are in freefall. committing offences which included space car park had effectively dou- Cllr English said: “I am glad In- rape. bled overnight from Monday, July digo is reviewing this price change. Waller (55), formerly of Westmor- 10. One Downs Mail reader paid £8 While I understand, as a commercial land Road, Maidstone, was arrested on for little over two hours. operation, its reason for raising January 25, 2016, after allegations were On Fridays and Saturdays, drivers them, they need to take a longer made to Kent Police. were expected to shell out £3.50 for term view and appreciate that peo- An investigation revealed he had half an hour, and £10 if their shop- ple’s shopping budget is price sensi- also preyed upon other children. ping trip took them over four hours. tive and parking charges are a part Appearing before Maidstone Crown Indigo, which manages parking at of that.” Court, Waller pleaded guilty to nine Fremlin Walk, claims a steep rise in Lloyd Wright, centre manager at charges including indecent assault, in- business rates and rental charges, in- Fremlin Walk, which is owned by decency with a child, and sexual activ- troduced by the Government in M&G Real Estate, said: “We are cur- ity with a child. April, was behind the decision. rently in discussions with our car He was sentenced on July 28 and will However, a flood of comments park operator, Indigo. We are deter- be subject to a sexual harm prevention from outraged users, who described mined to deliver a high-quality serv- order and also placed on the sex offender's register indefinitely. the prices as “hideously expensive, ice for our local community at a Detective Constable Emma Crombie, of Kent Police’s Public Protection even before the increase” and competitive rate, and therefore we Unit, said: “Waller is a predatory paedophile, who subjected young chil- “dearer than London”; coupled with will be seeking a resolution to ensure dren to the most appalling abuse and used their fear to ensure they com- concern from the Fremlin Walk’s our centre remains affordable.” plied with his demands. owner about the impact on shoppers Driver Alex Hughes said on Face- “I would like to thank the victims, who have been incredibly brave to saw the old prices reinstated after book: “I estimate the car park is rak- come forward and give evidence against Waller. Sadly, they will no doubt just five days. ing in about £250,000 a week ... I’m carry the mental scars of his crimes with them for a long time but I hope Fears about the effect of high park- sure Fremlin Walk would love to they will be able to move forward from this. ing charges on the town’s footfall – give their share of the profit to re- “Successful convictions such as this are just one of the reasons we urge already under pressure from centres duce pricing.” anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse to contact the police. It is like Bluewater, which offers free Indigo has said the old prices will never too late to report any sexual offence and we will always treat any parking, and online shopping – have remain while a review is carried out. information with the utmost confidence.” been expressed by Lib Dem town Mail Marks page 38
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14 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Warning after Watching your speed A SPEEDWATCH scheme has been introduced in Kings Hill, coordinated by a former Chief Constable of Kent. Drivers’ speeds will be monitored and anyone travelling at 35mph or site clean-up more will be reported to the police. If that vehicle is caught PUBLIC-spirited residents who area had re-opened and the public speeding again within 12 helped to clean up after travellers footpath at the back of the field had months anywhere in Kent and took over a West Malling playing been cleared. Sussex, the driver will receive a field were advised to seek med- He said that once the council had letter of advice from the police. ical attention. tallied up the final bill, it would be The equipment was bought by Parish council vice-chairman published so that residents could Liberty Property Trust and Kent Richard Selkirk said: “We are see the details. County Council for use by the aware of some residents being The decision to close the well- community volunteers with the community-spirited and doing used hall in Norman Road was support of the parish council. It some cleaning up themselves. Al- made by the parish council after will operate in the main roads, though we truly appreciate your about a dozen caravans moved on including Tower View, Gibson support, please do not do so as the to the playing field on Sunday, July Drive and Discovery Drive. waste contains some very unpleas- 9. The Speedwatch scheme has ant material. They left after a week, following been proven to make drivers “Our contractors are profession- legal action by the parish and Ton- think more carefully about their als with all the correct protective bridge and Malling councils. speed. It is an education scheme equipment, and will do the job in a All activities at the hall, includ- and not one where people are safe manner. ing a nursery school and yoga ses- prosecuted. “If you were one of these people, sions, were cancelled during their “We have a rapidly growing please seek advice from the NHS stay. population at Kings Hill and the as a precaution. The last thing we Cllr Selkirk said there were also safety of those living, working and visiting here is of paramount would want is for you to become reports that rabbit traps had been importance,” said Liberty’s property and estate manager Susan Davies. ill.” set up in Maceys Meadow – a pop- Former Chief Constable of Kent Police, Bob Ayling, who is also a Kings Hill Cllr Selkirk confirmed that con- ular place with families and dog parish councillor, said: "I would like to thank the volunteers who have tractors removed the last of “the walkers. Some traps had been undertaken the training and given their time to help make our Kings Hill considerable amount of waste” found and volunteers were check- community a safer place to live and work. The objective is to deter from the playing field next to the ing to ensure that there were no speeding and to educate drivers to behave responsibly. village hall, on Wednesday, July more on the site. “We do need more volunteers and anyone interested in joining us should 19. Meanwhile dog owners were ad- contact the Kings Hill Parish Council Office." The field and children’s play vised to keep their pets on leads. Call 01732 870382 or email offi[email protected].
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Malling August 2017 15 News downsmail.co.uk Drink driver’s two-year ban Keep children busy A DRUNK who drove his Vauxhall Corsa while more than three times the legal alcohol limit for driving has been banned from the roads for at summer activities two years. Thomas Matthews was sen- tenced at West Kent Magistrates’ IF you are looking for something to get the kids out and about in the Court on August 1 2017, when he pleaded guilty to drink-driving. school holidays and into the autumn, look no further than Maidstone. On June 21 this year, the 34-year- old, of Belmont Close, Maidstone, Free sport sessions for fans of drove a Vauxhall Corsa in Belmont football, boxing, American football, Road, Maidstone, and gave a archery, cricket and gymnastics are breath test of 116mg of alcohol in on offer for boys and girls aged five 100ml of breath. The legal limit is to 18 in Tovil, Shepway, Park 35mg. Wood, and Marden. Magistrates banned Matthews Sessions are provided free of from driving for 24 months and or- charge thanks to Kent Sport, which dered him to carry out 200 hours of is backed by the county council, unpaid work in the next 12 months. and Golding Vision (the commu- He must also pay £85 costs and an nity arm of Maidstone housing as- £85 victim surcharge. sociation Golding Homes). Disqualification can be reduced Coaches and equipment come by 181 days if he satisfactorily com- courtesy of Kent Community pletes a course approved by the Cricket, Charlton Athletic Commu- secretary of state. nity Trust, Olympia Boxing, Pega- sus Gymnastics Club and American Football Development Ltd. tober 20 at venues in Maidstone opportunities for local young peo- Slavery case This is the second year the Get and over the summer holidays at ple with the activities we have to A UK and overseas investigation Active initiative has been available, The Cockpit, Cranham Square and offer. will see three stand trial in Lithua- with venues including Tovil Com- the football ground, in Pattenden “Last year, we had 504 young nia over “slave labour” allegations munity Centre in Barefreston Close; Lane, Marden. people take part in the project and relating to a company in Maid- Shepway Recreation Ground, Nicola File, sports projects officer its activities and this year we stone. Cumberland Avenue; Heather for Kent Sport, said the programme reckon we are on course to match, if It follows an investigation by House, Bicknor Road; Pegasus was now in its second year and was not better, those numbers. All the Lithuanian authorities, supported Gymnastics Club, Farleigh Hill; likely to increase its participant activities are completely free.” by Kent Police, into the alleged traf- and Park Wood Recreation numbers this year on 2016. For more on what’s available, ficking and exploitation of men Ground. She added: “The scheme is essen- visit www.facebook.com/GetAc- who worked as chicken-catchers Sessions run from now until Oc- tially there to provide more local tiveGolding or call 07872 417912. for a Kent-based company. Kent Police carried out a warrant at a property in Maidstone in Octo- Libraries se ing ber 2012 in partnership with the Gangmaster Licensing Authority book challenge and UK Human Trafficking Centre CHILDREN are invited to solve a (UKHTC) and identified more than mystery by turning the pages of a 30 men as potential victims. confidential crime file this summer A man and woman from the at Kent’s libraries. Maidstone area, both aged in their It is all part of the Summer Read- 50s, who ran the business are now ing Challenge, for children aged to stand trial, along with a 53-year- Care home plan approved four to 11, promoted by the na- old Lithuanian man. PERMISSION has been given for development jigsaw on the Kent tional Reading Agency. A date for the trial at Klaipeda work to start on another £10m Medical Campus, that has already Youngsters who visit a Kent li- Regional Court has still to be set. health care development on a large received outline approval from commercial site off the M20 in Maidstone Council. brary will receive a folder, which Maidstone. Access to the building, to the introduces the mystery and the An- Beerling guilty The borough council has right of the main site, will be via a imal Agents trying to solve it. A MAIDSTONE man who stole al- approved details for a 75-bed care new £1.5m road called Gidds Pond The challenge runs until Septem- most £1,000 from his employers has home, with facilities for step-down Way, which was opened by the ber 16, with the answers there to been spared prison. patients leaving hospital but not Mayor of Maidstone on August 9. claim by reading half-a-dozen Peter Mark Beerling was sen- ready to return home. This will also serve the new £18m books, for which your child re- tenced on August 3, 2017, at Mid The 4,200sqm building (see Cygnet Health Care development ceives a sticker, for their Animal Kent Magistrates’ Court where he artist’s impression above) will form currently taking shape, and links to Agents folder, to solve the mystery. had pleaded not guilty to a charge the latest part of the 98,000sqm the New Cut Road roundabout. Successful literary detectives re- of theft by employee. ceive a certificate and a medal But Beerling was convicted of the (while stocks last). Other Animal offence by magistrates. Agents’ themed incentives and ac- Between March 2 and 8, 2017, the Shoplifter jailed by magistrates tivities will be running at Kent li- braries across the summer. 37-year-old, of Cowden Road, A SERIAL shoplifter who targeted businesses in and around Maid- Maidstone, stole £969.80 from his stone has been sent to prison. Lindsay Prestage, from KCC’s li- employer. Daniel Elliott James Cook (25) was sentenced on August 3, 2017, at braries, said: “The summer reading Magistrates sentenced him to 20 Medway Magistrates’ Court where he admitted seven counts of challenge gets three-quarters-of-a- days in prison, suspended for 12 shoplifting from stores in East Malling, West Malling, Ditton, Bor- million children into libraries, months, and ordered him to carry ough Green and Maidstone. nearly 18,000, last year from Kent, out 200 hours of unpaid work in the Magistrates sentenced Cook to 196 days in prison. He must also pay and we hope to beat that.” next 12 months. He must also pay £934 compensation. Details at www.animal- £729 compensation and £125 costs agents.org.uk
16 Malling August 2017 downsmail.co.uk News MP signs list of ‘Li er police’ contract rail demands MAIDSTONE and Weald MP Helen Grant is among a dozen Kent MPs to sign a “comprehensive” list ceases after TV furore of demands on government from the new South Eastern rail fran- chise. THE contract with Maidstone’s lit- In a detailed ter wardens will cease at the end of six-page letter to this month. rail Minister It follows a meeting with King- Paul Maynard, dom Security, a company recently 12 Tory MPs featured in a Panorama investiga- have set out tion into bonus payments that saw their expecta- wardens in the town briefly sus- tions from the pended before being allowed to re- franchise – cur- turn to work. rently out for Maidstone Borough Council - which hired the private firm - was consultation – reflecting the huge blasted by critics after Downs Mail concerns voiced by thousands of revealed Kingdom derived most of constituents. its cash by targeting smokers in Mrs Grant said: “We have com- Maidstone. piled a comprehensive document The statement read: “Maidstone for consideration by government in Borough Council and Kingdom Se- its deliberations over the forthcom- curity have come to a mutual deci- with Kingdom our focus was very way which is flexible but meets the ing franchise bid for the county. sion not to extend the current much on targeting littering and irre- needs of local residents. All options “It covers not only the train oper- contract. Kingdom Security has sponsible dog ownership. This has will be explored and that includes ators, but also issues for Network been providing enforcement serv- been very successful at reducing lit- retendering for a new enforcement Rail to address and extends to a de- ices in relation to littering in the bor- tering and encouraging people to contract or bringing the service in- mand for Crossrail to be extended ough since 2011 but this will cease use litter bins and act responsibly. house.” to Ebbsfleet – a major strategic step at the end of this month (August).“ Our focus has to change and adapt Kingdom’s methods came under for Kent and for Maidstone in par- The decision was made following to new challenges we are seeing in close scrutiny in the BBC investiga- ticular, as a link to its high speed a meeting held on August 1. The the borough. Now the contract with tion and led to furious criticism service from Maidstone West. council’s head of environment and Kingdom is coming to an end, we from locals who questioned MBC’s “Together with my Kent col- public realm, Jennifer Shepherd, will work to ensure we continue moral responsibilty for taking 50% leagues I will be monitoring this said: “When our contract began with our enforcement service in a of the fine cash. franchise process very carefully.” Has your doubledouble gglazinglazing steamedsteamed up?
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Malling August 2017 17 News downsmail.co.uk Fitness scheme LARKFIELD Leisure Centre has Hermitage Lane scheme unveiled plans for a £1millon ex- tension which will include a bigger gym and two new exercise studios. The investment by leisure trust, will cause ‘u er chaos’ tmactive, will involve knocking through the store next to the free A PLAN to ease pressure on Her- weights area into the existing exer- mitage Lane’s traffic congestion cise studio. Half the studio will has met with a lukewarm reception. form part of an extended gym with MP Tracey Crouch has warned of a functional rig and additional “utter chaos” while a dedicated lane equipment; the other half will be is installed at the retail park. made into a tiered spin studio. The Kent County Council scheme Two exercise studios will be built aims to provide a “longer dedicated Keith Young on the garden next to Larkabout. lane” turning into the retail site. This with protestors Work on the scheme, which is will allow an “uninterrupted from the New subject to planning permission, straight ahead lane to be provided Allington should start in the autumn and will for through traffic heading south Action Group be completed early next spring. through the junction”. KCC hopes a at the TMBC will then invest £250,000 left lane will ease delays going north. Hermitage on fitness equipment. The work is due to start in Sep- Lane junction tember and will last until December. Signs will be erected to keep the wards the A20. lem of an overcrowded road due to Pavilion raided public informed of progress. “I hope all who saw my post on the vast number of houses being A 17-year-old boy has been ar- Chatham and Aylesford MP Miss the proposal for development on the build and the extra lorries heading rested following a burglary at Lark- Crouch said: “These works will pri- corner land have registered their op- to and from the quarry.” field Football Club. marily address part of the problem position at the TMBC planning site.” Lib Dem borough councillor Dan It follows the release of CCTV caused by the poorly-designed junc- Allington resident Keith Young, a Daley said: “The whole thing im- images by the sports club after a tion into the retail site. founder member of the pressure pinges on the hospital, with prob- second break-in at the pavilion. “They will take a few months until group New Allington Action Group lems for patients, doctors, nurses The youth was arrested on July completion and will cause utter (NAAG), warned that despite the and the clinics. In the morning, it’s 20 on suspicion of burglary after al- chaos in the interim period. When improvement work “much, much hell. If there’s any kind of problem cohol was taken from the New they are done they should create a worse is to come” if Tonbridge and it’s gridlocked in five minutes.” Hythe Lane pavilion. better flow towards the hospital. Malling Council decides to build in KCC said: “Our works will be Anyone with information can call “What I am not clear on … is the area. carefully managed during this pe- 01622 604100, quoting reference whether it will make any difference Wendy Tinsley wrote on Face- riod to keep any additional delay to YY/020141/17, or Kent Crimestop- heading down Hermitage Lane to- book: “Nothing will solve the prob- a minimum.” pers on 0800 555 111.
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