Reprieve for Theatre

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Maidstone East Edition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE FREE& Fortnightly October 2017 No.Maidstone 246 & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper News FebruaryPanto 4th - Marchahoy! 3rd downsmail.co.uk Kate,No. 107,289 dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in Bearsted, stone, took to the River Medway to has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. News David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- MP’sWhat’s Local the Plan link? bid fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- HELENFIND outWhately the local asked connection the beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig governmentbetween Test to haltcricket, the Olympic Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, borough’sathletes and housing Rolling scheme. Stone 4 Stephen Richards and Adam Bor- Mick Jagger’s father. à3 zone (Ugly Sisters) . They were greeted by pupils from Plans for Dr Nigel South Borough Primary School and Otham legal threat THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto OPPONENTS to a large housing will walk the Grand runs from December 1-31. For tick- plan for Otham are threatening Canyon for charity. 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. to challenge its approval in the courts. à4 Jason Donovan date THERoofer former Neighboursremembered star brings hisA ROOFERshow to the who Hazlitt died from a Theatre next May. 18 brain tumour on Boxing CCTV call in a bid Day is remembered. à10 Reprieve for theatre Demolition concern THE Hazlitt Theatre and arts cen- voted cross-party for MBC to take wood, as the authority needs to ur- LANDOWNERS in Lenham fear treto has been saved stop after a short, back control fly-tipping of the arts centre and gently make £2m in savings caused they will have their property sharp lesson in people power. terminate the Parkwood contract. by falling revenues, such as park- seized or demolished after a CALLSMaidstone for residents, the installation outraged at This of was CCTV later overturned cameras and to de- preventing charges, fly-tipping hit by COVID-19. on a legal letter from lawyers acting the borough council’s plans to ferred to January. Cllr Paul Harper, chair of the for Maidstone Borough “mothball”country roadthe venue have and beentermi- madeTory byborough the councillor local borough Jonathan economic councillor. regeneration and leisure Council. à14 nateBurberry the contract Lane, of near its Leedsoperators, and nearby,Purle, who more orchestrated than a year the after over- it unlicensedcommittee, waste said: carriers,“We realise but that be- ParkwoodBroomfield, Leisure, has been rose targeted as one byin wasturning dumped of the and original set on fire. decision lievesthe continuing the cost to COVID-19 small firms restric- of dis- Obituaries à33 thunderouswaste dumpers rebellion. for years, but in re- whichThe church led to carthe parkresult, has said: also “This seen posingtions have of construction left a lot of uncertainly waste at a Obituaries 32 centCouncil months, chiefs, the including problem hasits top be- manyshows instances why ofeverybody illegal dumping. who transferfor the future station for is provingall of us aand deter- this Parishes à35 officerscome more and acute. political leaders, protestedBut it is aat problem the original in many decision rural – rentis a thatchanging is costing picture councils since more.the fu- Parish Councils 34-35 pushedConstruction for closure waste, in rubble,the face hard of areasthose includingwho signed Langley, petitions, Otham lob- tureCllr of Fort the Hazlitt made herwas remarksfirst consid- as Comment à44-47 cutscore, needed windows to andstem household lost revenues fur- andbied councillors Kingswood. and Water spoke Laneat meet- in oneered of in the November borough’s 2020, closest we trans- are a ASH dieback has been discovered in causedniture is by left COVID-19. illegally – often strewn Bearstedings – and and those Pilgrims councillors Way havewho ferlot stationsfurther on at since North then. Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in Detling; Hollingbourne village fete stall- inMaidstone the middle ofBorough the road. Council alsosupported been targeted our challenge recently. to that de- bridge“However, Wells, announcedwith restrictions it will still be Cycle route ‘chaotic’ (MBC)Cllr Gill claimed Fortsaid: the volte-face “Every month was cisionLast were year, right Maidstone to do so.” Borough closedin place, for the 10 weeks.council has agreed to holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has resigned;THE controversial yellow lines pop-up are needed cycle becausewe are vaccines having toilets,were being sinks rolled and CouncilThe threat cleared of 911 closure cases ofwas fly-tip- met monitorShe added: and “Ifreview you gothe along situation the forroute Buffkyn in King Way, Street, Otham Maidstone,, to allow outconstruction across the waste borough. dumped in the pingwith anda massive this year public more outcry, than and 163 lineagain of increasingin three fines,months. they haveIn the to buses through Imperial Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. be enforced. A reduction in the ‘caused chaos’in its On January 26, elected members Downs Mail led the way in oppo- meantime, MBC will continue to bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings charge or offering it free may have short existence. à22 agreed to retain the contract with sition to the plans with a social work with Parkwood Leisure to Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.” Parkwood Leisure, which runs the media campaign attracting more support their successful re-opening the picnic area and rear exit. venueland, to for oversee MBC, the with problem a review area.” in thanCllr 5,000 Fort welcomedfollowers on a jointFacebook. initia- ofA the three-monthly Hazlitt Arts litterCentre.” pick on the COVID-19 morgue A recent event in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency April. Late last year, MBC’s senior mile-longl Hazlitt stretchTimeline, of roadpage through8 CrimeA TEMPORARY Reports morgue set up35 in saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Last November, a committee leadership argued to lose Park- Leedsl Parkwood village producesview, page an 47 average Aylesford empahsises how serious torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 black sacks of rubbish. VEHICLES have been driven over the situation in Kent Cllr Fort, who also serves as a farmland in Lenham, causing has become. à23 parishYalding councillor, PO says joy teaching damge to crops; an attempted children about social responsibility break-in was reported in Detling; a andA theCHANGE issue of of litter heart in byschools Govern- will vehicleVicious was vandalisedthug jailed in Bearsted helpment take over the core issue funding off the has streets. saved Rd, Weavering; pumpkins were Yalding’s village Post Office for stolenA THUG from who brutally an allotment beat a in She believes with every household woman at her Maidstone home receivinganother a year.weekly The refuse sub-postmas- collection Lenham. YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT and then hid from police in a service,ter says there he isis “very no excuse happy”. for litter [email protected] cupboard has been beingSee page thrown 18 for from more vehicles or Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. jailed. à27 Home Alarms supplied and fitted webexpandvisit www.amiga.co.uk.co.ukor call 080000162 1996222 880840 In the the top top 1% of 1%UK web of designUK companies webwww.webexpand.co.uk design companies | [email protected] web design google promotion ecommerce Supporting the Kent community for over 235 years

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2 downsmail.co.uk News Charity run The Olympic past of to help Seth A MAIDSTONE running club is hosting a pirate-themed virtual fundraiser in aid of schoolboy club’s sauna revealed Seth Dickenson, who is battling a terminal illness. FOR decades the “oldest Olympic Seth (7) was diagnosed with a sauna in existence” has refreshed brain tumour when he was four. athletes, Test cricketers and even The event, run by Maidstone the father of Rolling Stone, Mick Harriers, is set to take place from Jagger. March 1 to 14. The club is encour- As a thank you for the use of its aging people of all abilities to running tracks before the 1948 walk, run or jog 10km in a single games in London, the Finnish day and help them raise as much Olympic Committee dismantled money as possible. its Richmond Park sauna and do- The money will be donated to nated it to Aylesford. Brainstrust, a charity that has sup- The building remains in place on ported Seth and his family since the old Reed Paper Mill site and- the start of his illness. was still in regular use by its 22 For more information visit members until 18 months ago. www.maidstoneharriers.co.uk/ch Secretary and treasurer of Cob- years, said the British Sauna Soci- for the games and donated the arityrace. down Sauna Club, Richard Young ety had no idea of the sauna’s sur- sauna to the sports club as a token (69), said: “I always knew the vival. of their appreciation. building was something special, He added: “I wish we had con- The sauna has been used over Drugs arrest but I never imagined it would be tacted them sooner, but we had no the years by everyone from vil- A SUSPECTED drug dealer was this significant to so many people.” clue. The founder and president of lagers calling in after a hard day’s arrested in Maidstone. The sauna is now in need of new the society, Mika Meskanen, was work to world-renowned athletes, Police cars were seen parked in fire doors, exits, signage and gobsmacked at the Finnish features international footballers, cricketers, Mote Road at about 4pm on Jan- electrics that could cost the club – everything from the footbath to and rugby players. uary 19. more than £4,000. the doorknobs.” For information about joining A 29-year-old local man was ar- Mr Young (pictured), who has The Finnish team used Aylesford the club, contact Richard at richy- rested and later released pending been a member of the club for 30 Paper Mill’s running tracks to train [email protected] or 07734960706. further investigation.

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3 News downsmail.co.uk Call for review of Otham plan OPPONENTS of the Bellway Homes development at Otham have threatened to take a controversial decision to grant the scheme to a judicial review. A government planning inspec- quiry to the Audit, Governance Mr Hatcher has launched a Bellway’s challenge. He added: tor last month overturned elected and Standards Committee. change.org petition to highlight the “There may be evidence that cer- borough councillors, who three “At that meeting, the committee need to wrest control of key deci- tain protocols were not followed times dropped the proposal for 421 should consider whether this mat- sion-making back to elected mem- that we will be able to challenge on. houses near the ancient church of ter can be the subject of a judicial bers of Maidstone Borough Council We’ll have to wait and see.” St Nicholas. review into the appeal decision. (MBC) in the wake of the Otham Elected councillors three times Now vocal critics of the decision “If so, it should instruct new appeal. threw out the Bellway scheme, by Stephen Normington to find in counsel to advise before this matter Councillors have agreed an ex- principally because of safety wor- favour of the appellant say there passes the period in which a review traordinary meeting will be held to ries about the narrow, winding may be grounds for a judicial re- can be called for. Whilst I appreci- explore legal avenues, although Church Road. But Mr Normington view at the High Court. ate there will be costs involved, it is MBC’s legal chief Patricia Narebor did not accept that Church Road In a letter to Downs Mail, David money that has to be spent to undo warned against “going on a fishing has a poor safety record, and Bell- Hatcher, spokesman for the Chap- the current resulting harm from the expedition”. way agreed to footpath widening man Avenue Area Residents’ As- recent appeal decision, and ensure Independent borough councillor and the extension of the 30mph sociation said: “There should be an that similar mistakes are not made Gordon Newton said he was “very zone. immediate referral for a full in- in the future.” angry” at the decision to uphold See letters, pages 44 -46 Warning of Woodland car park plan Discount for shed raids USERS of a popular destination electric cars for dog-walkers will soon have a CAR park charges will be reduced SHED burglars are on the prowl new car park. from April for electric car drivers if and residents are warned by police The Bearsted Woodland Trust Maidstone borough councillors ap- to take extra care. (BWT) is to create 30 spaces off prove a recommendation to help A number of outhouses were tar- the A20 to ease pressure on improve air quality. geted in West Malling in January. Church Lane and the A20. The Strategic Planning and In- In one case, an outboard motor Co-founders of the BWT, frastructure Committee favoured was stolen while power tools, gar- Richard and Dena Ashness, have the proposal but deferred a deci- dening equipment and golf clubs provided the extra land. sion until their next meeting. were taken in break-ins. A statement from the trust said: The officer recommended start- A Kent Police spokesman said: “The Bearsted Woodland Trust ing the discount at 50%, but de- “Officers remain alert for anybody has drawn up plans to create a creasing as electric vehicles become they suspect is intent on commit- new parking area to benefit in- more popular. Drivers will benefit ting crime. creasing numbers of visitors, ease from the discount when they make “A number of residents have the pressure on the Church Lane payments through the Ringo app or at the council’s 18 Podpoint EV contacted us where they have seen car park and reduce parking prob- area is well-used and particularly charging stations. somebody acting suspiciously and, lems on the Ashford Road. so at present. So well done, in most cases, we have been able to “Unlike most parks, BWT has Bearsted Woodland Trust.” attend promptly and track down never had its own parking area The car park will be designed Safety marks those brought to our attention. and the scheme would provide by architect Chris Buckingham. DESIGN work is completed for vir- “I would urge members of the about 30 parking spaces on a grass But Bearsted resident Keith Ma- tual lane separation using road public to continue to report this latticed area adjoining the A20, in- lyon said: “I can see the reasoning markings on one of Maidstone’s type of incident to us on 101, or 999 cluding disabled spaces.” for a car park in an attempt to stop most dangerous roundabouts at if you believe a crime is taking Parish and borough councillor the grass verge parking, but I am the Running Horse A20 Ashford place. Make sure you lock doors Denis Spooner (pictured) said: “It concerned about the traffic exit- Road/M20 slip road at Sandling. and windows and consider fitting looks to be a very good scheme – ing the car park on to a road with KCC anticipates construction a shed alarm or security light.” it satisfies a need for spaces. The a 60 mph speed limit.” late in the 2021/22 financial year. DUE to the COVID19 lockdown and the impact on small businesses across our borough, Downs Mail is now publishing monthly, rather than fortnightly. The next edition is out on March 4. The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk

Editorial Sales Manager Editor Simon Finlay simon.ﬁ[email protected] Sara Henslow [email protected] Editorial team: Accounts: [email protected] Online news editor Jade Schopman Mail Publications Ltd [email protected] Forge House Chris Lawson [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park Lindsay Roberts [email protected] Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT Obituaries Neil Nixon [email protected] Call us: 01622 630330

4 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Call for review of Otham plan Contested barn OPPONENTS of the Bellway Homes development at Otham have threatened to take a controversial decision to grant the scheme to a judicial review. wins approval A government planning inspec- quiry to the Audit, Governance Mr Hatcher has launched a Bellway’s challenge. He added: tor last month overturned elected and Standards Committee. change.org petition to highlight the “There may be evidence that cer- CONTROVERSIAL retrospective can change the use of something borough councillors, who three “At that meeting, the committee need to wrest control of key deci- tain protocols were not followed that isn’t there any more, and once times dropped the proposal for 421 should consider whether this mat- sion-making back to elected mem- that we will be able to challenge on. planning permission has been that structure had fallen down, the houses near the ancient church of ter can be the subject of a judicial bers of Maidstone Borough Council We’ll have to wait and see.” granted for a converted barn in writes Jade Schop- development rights were lost. St Nicholas. review into the appeal decision. (MBC) in the wake of the Otham Elected councillors three times West Farleigh, “Why are we even considering Now vocal critics of the decision “If so, it should instruct new appeal. threw out the Bellway scheme, man. the details of this proposal when by Stephen Normington to find in counsel to advise before this matter Councillors have agreed an ex- principally because of safety wor- River Barn in Tutsham Farm had perhaps there should be a strong favour of the appellant say there passes the period in which a review traordinary meeting will be held to ries about the narrow, winding been granted permission back in may be grounds for a judicial re- can be called for. Whilst I appreci- explore legal avenues, although Church Road. But Mr Normington 2015 for conversion to a single policy rejection to a new develop- view at the High Court. ate there will be costs involved, it is MBC’s legal chief Patricia Narebor did not accept that Church Road dwelling house. ment taking place on this site?” In a letter to Downs Mail, David money that has to be spent to undo warned against “going on a fishing has a poor safety record, and Bell- However, during the work, a Cllr Wendy Young said: “Stand- Hatcher, spokesman for the Chap- the current resulting harm from the expedition”. way agreed to footpath widening storm halted the building process ing alone, this property stands out man Avenue Area Residents’ As- recent appeal decision, and ensure Independent borough councillor and the extension of the 30mph and the frame became unstable. like a sore thumb. I live in a con- sociation said: “There should be an that similar mistakes are not made Gordon Newton said he was “very zone. The property was then demol- verted barn and my barn is wood. immediate referral for a full in- in the future.” angry” at the decision to uphold See letters, pages 44 -46 ished and rebuilt, which nullified “If this property were covered in the original permission, according wood it would blend in far better. to the Maidstone borough’s plan- It just looks like a converted cow Discount for ning team. shed with some glass windows put Warning of Woodland car park plan Applicant Chris Hawkins said: in it.” “This is a situation where there Staplehurst councillor John USERS of a popular destination electric cars shed raids have been errors both side of the Perry said: “I live in a barn myself p5 for dog-walkers will soon have a CAR park charges will be reduced fence. and it’s surrounded by very large SHED burglars are on the prowl new car park. from April for electric car drivers if and residents are warned by police “I think this is an example of old trees which I love. I think this is The Bearsted Woodland Trust Maidstone borough councillors ap- in quite a vast location and it needs to take extra care. where working with the council (BWT) is to create 30 spaces off prove a recommendation to help has brought about genuine bene- some protection, it needs some A number of outhouses were tar- the A20 to ease pressure on improve air quality. fits.” large trees.” geted in West Malling in January. Church Lane and the A20. The Strategic Planning and In- But Cllr Denis Spooner argued Teston Parish Council argued the In one case, an outboard motor Co-founders of the BWT, frastructure Committee favoured the scheme should not have come building is not sympathetic to the was stolen while power tools, gar- Richard and Dena Ashness, have the proposal but deferred a deci- before Maidstone Borough Coun- local setting and is visually intru- Will, Deputyship, dening equipment and golf clubs provided the extra land. sion until their next meeting. cil’s planning committee. sive.The committee approved the were taken in break-ins. A statement from the trust said: The officer recommended start- He said: “I fail to see how you application. A Kent Police spokesman said: “The Bearsted Woodland Trust ing the discount at 50%, but de- or Power of “Officers remain alert for anybody has drawn up plans to create a creasing as electric vehicles become they suspect is intent on commit- new parking area to benefit in- more popular. Drivers will benefit from the discount when they make Attorney dispute? ting crime. creasing numbers of visitors, ease Icy beauty “A number of residents have the pressure on the Church Lane payments through the Ringo app THIS Christmas card scene was or at the council’s 18 Podpoint EV contacted us where they have seen car park and reduce parking prob- captured in woods near Maidstone Do you have a dispute regarding how a area is well-used and particularly charging stations. somebody acting suspiciously and, lems on the Ashford Road. so at present. So well done, as a winter mist suddenly ran into Will, Deputyship, Estate or Power of Attorney in most cases, we have been able to “Unlike most parks, BWT has Bearsted Woodland Trust.” plummeting overnight tempera- attend promptly and track down never had its own parking area The car park will be designed Safety marks tures. has been handled? those brought to our attention. and the scheme would provide by architect Chris Buckingham. DESIGN work is completed for vir- Water droplets froze to this holly “I would urge members of the about 30 parking spaces on a grass But Bearsted resident Keith Ma- tual lane separation using road bush and virtually every plant in the Whitehead Monckton has considerable public to continue to report this latticed area adjoining the A20, in- lyon said: “I can see the reasoning markings on one of Maidstone’s King’s Wood, near Broomfield, on experience in helping clients to resolve type of incident to us on 101, or 999 cluding disabled spaces.” for a car park in an attempt to stop most dangerous roundabouts at January 10. if you believe a crime is taking Parish and borough councillor the grass verge parking, but I am the Running Horse A20 Ashford One dog walker remarked: “It these difficult disagreements and in many place. Make sure you lock doors Denis Spooner (pictured) said: “It concerned about the traffic exit- Road/M20 slip road at Sandling. was beautiful. It’s a pity it didn’t cases achieving excellent financial results. and windows and consider fitting looks to be a very good scheme – ing the car park on to a road with KCC anticipates construction happen a couple of weeks before a shed alarm or security light.” it satisfies a need for spaces. The a 60 mph speed limit.” late in the 2021/22 financial year. for Christmas but lovely, nonethe- less.” Call us today on DUE to the COVID19 lockdown and the impact on small businesses across our borough, Downs Mail is now Canterbury 01227 643250 publishing monthly, rather than fortnightly. The next edition is out on March 4. Maidstone 01622 698000 The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. Surge testing new strain Tenterden 01580 765722 Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk A STRAIN of the South African would deliver self-swabbing kits variant of Coronavirus has been which will be picked up a hour London 020 7531 2990 Editorial Sales Manager detected in Maidstone prompting or so later. A forum spokesman for an initial no obligation consultation by phone. Editor Simon Finlay simon.fi[email protected] Sara Henslow [email protected] door to door “surge testing said: “If residents have either just A special task force has been set had a test - or are booked in for a E-mail [email protected] Editorial team: Accounts: [email protected] up to go to addresses door to door test soon – it is important that Online news editor Jade Schopman Mail Publications Ltd offering COVID-19 tests.The area they still take this test as addi- www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk [email protected] Forge House affected is thought to be to the tional sequencing for test posi- Whiteheadwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered Chris Lawson [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park east of the ME15 postcode. tives will be undertaken.” in England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Lindsay Roberts [email protected] Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT Kent County Council and Kent Book a test at nhs.uk/coron- Reslience Forum said residents avirus or call 119. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. Obituaries Neil Nixon [email protected] Call us: 01622 630330 would be visited by officials who COVID-19 news, page 23 DM 11/19

5 News downsmail.co.uk Laptop plea THE Holmesdale School has ap- Brexit red tape ‘hitting pealed for any spare or unwanted laptops. The Snodland school needs de- vices such as iPads, tablets and laptops in good working order, so small businesses hard’ that students can access their online learning at home during lock- A SUCCESSFUL Maidstone and get through the system more down. small business is among thou- quickly, but most small busi- The school wrote on Facebook: sands across Britain and Europe nesses use Groupage transport “We have received an allocation facing serious damage because who build up pallets from many from the government, but this of major Customs import and ex- firms to make up HGV loads for does not stretch to all of our stu- port delays for shipment of both shipping. These go all over Eu- dents who are in need.” products and materials. rope, where similar problems Anyone who can help is asked Brendan Walton, pictured, is exist. to email the school at managing director of family busi- “Government talks of teething [email protected]. ness BJW Computers Ltd, based problems,” added Brendan. “If at The Old Stables, Lidsing Road, so, they had better sort them very Woods fenced Maidstone. It specialises in selling quickly because it is leaving so LANDOWNERS in Leeds village and manufacturing printer inks many of us teethless as some Eu- have tried to stop locals using a and has 400 products. ropean customers cancel orders.” small plot of woodland by erect- He said: “The delays are now Costs have escalated too. Every ing a 2m high steel fence. horrendous – a major threat to invoice involves a customs extra Residents complained after a businesses. The customs red tape days have now stretched to 14 charge of at least £75 plus VAT, smaller fence was put up to pre- since Brexit is crippling small days or more, due largely to slow more per line for longer invoices. vent them entering the woods as businesses due both to massive customs clearances at British He addded: “This is a new sub- they have done for many decades. delays and costs. warehouses. Some are full up stantial cost businesses are ex- The latest action came after the “I know of some who say they and can take no more, with HGV pected to bear at an already first fence was vandalised to may close down for two months trailers used for storage. It seems difficult time. allow access to the woods, which while this mess is sorted. I em- customs do not have enough “One way or another many adjoin the playing fields. ploy 12 people and I fear we may agents. small businesses are really being The land is owned by the have to furlough them.” Major businesses like super- crippled and several have already Rochester Bridge Trust. Journeys which took three/four markets have their own vehicles stopped trading.” p20

6 News downsmail.co.uk Laptop plea THE Holmesdale School has ap- Brexit red tape ‘hitting pealed for any spare or unwanted laptops. The Snodland school needs de- vices such as iPads, tablets and laptops in good working order, so small businesses hard’ that students can access their online learning at home during lock- A SUCCESSFUL Maidstone and get through the system more down. small business is among thou- quickly, but most small busi- The school wrote on Facebook: sands across Britain and Europe nesses use Groupage transport “We have received an allocation facing serious damage because who build up pallets from many from the government, but this of major Customs import and ex- firms to make up HGV loads for does not stretch to all of our stu- port delays for shipment of both shipping. These go all over Eu- dents who are in need.” products and materials. rope, where similar problems Anyone who can help is asked Brendan Walton, pictured, is exist. to email the school at managing director of family busi- “Government talks of teething [email protected]. ness BJW Computers Ltd, based problems,” added Brendan. “If at The Old Stables, Lidsing Road, so, they had better sort them very Woods fenced Maidstone. It specialises in selling quickly because it is leaving so LANDOWNERS in Leeds village and manufacturing printer inks many of us teethless as some Eu- have tried to stop locals using a and has 400 products. ropean customers cancel orders.” small plot of woodland by erect- He said: “The delays are now Costs have escalated too. Every ing a 2m high steel fence. horrendous – a major threat to invoice involves a customs extra Residents complained after a businesses. The customs red tape days have now stretched to 14 charge of at least £75 plus VAT, smaller fence was put up to pre- since Brexit is crippling small days or more, due largely to slow more per line for longer invoices. vent them entering the woods as businesses due both to massive customs clearances at British He addded: “This is a new sub- they have done for many decades. delays and costs. warehouses. Some are full up stantial cost businesses are ex- The latest action came after the “I know of some who say they and can take no more, with HGV pected to bear at an already first fence was vandalised to may close down for two months trailers used for storage. It seems difficult time. allow access to the woods, which while this mess is sorted. I em- customs do not have enough “One way or another many adjoin the playing fields. ploy 12 people and I fear we may agents. small businesses are really being The land is owned by the have to furlough them.” Major businesses like super- crippled and several have already Rochester Bridge Trust. Journeys which took three/four markets have their own vehicles stopped trading.”

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7 News | Hazlitt Theatre downsmail.co.uk How you saved the Hazlitt PEOPLE power prevailed in the battle to prevent the Hazlitt Theatre’s closure, and Downs Mail’s SAVE THE HAZLITT campaign lasted just 75 days. Simon Finlay tells the story… NOVEMBER 12, 2020: The Maid- stone Borough Council (MBC) Economic Regeneration and Leisure Committee (ERL), on advice from unelected officers but backed by the political leadership, votes to terminate the Parkwood Theatres contract and return the venue to council control. NOVEMBER 13: 4.05pm: A four- line press release titled “Future of the Hazlitt Theatre” drops. From official paperwork and council sources, it’s clear closure is an option. Cash-strapped MBC, hit by falling revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic, is considering the withdrawal of the £243,000 annual subsidy it pays to Parkwood Theatres, which runs the Hazlitt. NOVEMBER 13: 4.45pm: Downs Mail launches its “SAVE THE HAZLITT” campaign on Face- book. The public outcry begins. By 8pm, nearly 2,000 readers have joined. Downs Mail readers ex- Cllr Jonathan Purle, who led the cross-party delegation to call in the decision to close the Hazlitt Theatre press rage and dismay in mes- sages. nately the conclusion”. strongly urged members of the resolution for a deferment until NOVEMBER 17: Nearly 90% of ERL to take the option which January 19 2021, to allow for NOVEMBER 15: The “SAVE THE greater clarity on points raised. HAZLITT” campaign following respondents to a Downs Mail poll saves the most money and leaves declare the Hazlitt issue would af- the authority least contractually The Tories succeeded by a sin- rises to 3,500. A cross-party dele- gle vote (8 to 7) with the help of fect the way they would vote in tied – ending the Parkwood con- gation of borough councillors, led Lib Dem Nick de Wiggondene- by Cllr Jonathan Purle and sup- the next council election. tract. The “SAVE THE HAZLITT” Facebook page’s followers top Sheppard and independent Gor- ported by Cllrs Louise Brice NOVEMBER 19: The Downs don Newton. The deferment was 5,000. (Con), Eddie Powell (Ind), Ash- Mail “SAVE THE HAZLITT” opposed by Liberal Democrats, leigh Kimmance (Lib Dem) and Facebook page has attracted 4,300 NOVEMBER 25: The P&R com- Labour and an independent. Lottie Parfitt-Reid (Con), writes to followers. We reveal that MBC’s mittee, chaired by the MBC leader JANUARY 7: MBC announced the MBC chief executive Alison own papers show the Hazlitt con- Cllr Martin Cox, sits for four Broom to “call in” the ERL deci- that the ERL meeting on January tributes £5m to the local economy. hours. Despite his earlier state- sion before the Policy & Re- 19 had been delayed by a week sources Committee (P&R). P&R until January 26. has the power to overturn the de- The council took fright at the JANUARY 18: Council papers ap- cision. The delegation complains pear online for the ERL meeting the “fate of the Hazlitt had not … public reaction so close to on January 26, with a U-turn on its been subject to any form of pub- earlier position, recommending lic consultation”. the (May 6) local elections... “the council continues to pay its NOVEMBER 15: ERL chairman agreed contract fee to Parkwood Paul Harper (Lab), part of the Lib- Leisure for the provision of ser- NOVEMBER 20: The Friends of ment, Cllr Cox now claims the eral Democrat/Labour/Indepen- vices at the Hazlitt Arts Centre”. the Hazlitt claim MBC “owes it to Parkwood Theatre contract has dent coalition in charge of MBC, “ Cllr Purle said: “It's basically a the people of Maidstone to re- not been terminated. It becomes issues a statement claiming the complete U-turn. It's a victory for open the theatre as soon as clear some members would seek the people and common sense.” COVID-19 pandemic has seen the clarity on MBC’s closure” and COVID-19 restrictions are lifted”. council’s finances “wrecked”. He “mothballing” proposals, amid JANUARY 26: The ERL commit- blamed the “National Conserva- NOVEMBER 23: Downs Mail re- wider concerns that the ERL panel tee unanimously votes to retain tive Government” for the cuts. ports Hazlitt Theatre’s manager, had not had sufficient time to Parkwood, with a review in April. NOVEMBER 16: 4.54pm: A press Martin Cleverley, has written to evaluate the detail or conse- Council officials now claim the release drops from MBC. It says council top brass to warn that Earl quences. roll out of Coronavirus vaccines the ERL took the “very difficult Street will become deserted. There were impassioned has shifted the council’s position. decision to end the contract with NOVEMBER 24: Confidential speeches from members of the But one insider said: “They took Parkwood Theatres”, which runs “yellow” papers, obtained by public. fright at the public reaction so the Hazlitt for the council. Cllr Downs Mail and published online Cllrs Cox and Harper offer close to the (May 6) local elec- Martin Cox, the Liberal Democrat ahead of the following night’s other suggested uses for the venue tions.” leader of MBC claimed “the ter- crunch vote to save the Hazlitt but these are rejected in favour of JANUARY 27: PM Boris Johnson mination option was unfortu- Theatre, show unelected officers Tory member Jonathan Purle’s extends lockdown until March 8. 8 News | Hazlitt Theatre downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus

How you saved the Hazlitt Stay Home and Release Equity – is this a way forward? PEOPLE power prevailed in the battle to prevent the Hazlitt Theatre’s closure, and Downs The last few months have seen pay their mortgage. Whilst it is be as “scary” as many people Mail’s SAVE THE HAZLITT campaign lasted just 75 days. Simon Finlay tells the story… such immeasurable changes in generally advisable not to think. This said, in many every element of our lives and the consider Equity Release at too situations Equity Release will NOVEMBER 12, 2020: The Maid- Equity Release market has young an age, there are a number have a longer-term impact on the stone Borough Council (MBC) certainly adapted to try and cope of routes available that will equity remaining in a property Economic Regeneration and with the ongoing demand for enable people to continue to and should only be considered Leisure Committee (ERL), on ad- applications. Local adviser, Sarah service the loan. For those after seeking full advice as to th e vice from unelected officers but Ferrell, has been speaking with an home owners over age 55 who variety of routes available. backed by the political leadership, increased number of people who are concerned about their votes to terminate the Parkwood are concerned about their own ongoing mortgage and the Sarah says, “I have seen Equity Theatres contract and return the finances but who are also looking affordability of this, Equity Release do so much good for so venue to council control. at their properties as a means to Release may be an option to many clients however I have also helping their children financially consider. spoken to people who have NOVEMBER 13: 4.05pm: A four- as a result of the impact of the entered into schemes without Sarah is happy to visit your home Not only are people finding they line press release titled “Future of coronavirus. seeking appropriate advice and and she is not just available 9-5, need financial assistance for the Hazlitt Theatre” drops. From have been confused”. but will offer flexible times to suit How might Equity Release be a themselves but may retired people official paperwork and council solution? have seen their children struggle her clients. In Sarah’s opinion somebody sources, it’s clear closure is an op- financially over the last few In the current climate there are two considering Equity Release tion. Cash-strapped MBC, hit by months and are looking at using For more information or a particular popular reasons why needs advice, guidance and falling revenues during the the equity in their own homes to people may be considering Equity information that is relevant to free initial consultation, COVID-19 pandemic, is consider- help their children. Release. their particular situation and please call Sarah on ing the withdrawal of the In order to be eligible for Equity Whatever the reason for with over 27 years’ experience in 01622 631372, 07789 007447 £243,000 annual subsidy it pays to Release you need to be 55. Many considering Equity Release it isn’t finance Sarah takes pride in the or e-mail her at Parkwood Theatres, which runs people who have been furloughed right for everybody. Many time and care she takes with her the Hazlitt. or whose businesses have taken a schemes allow ongoing payment clients. [email protected] NOVEMBER 13: 4.45pm: Downs downturn are wor ried about how of interest a nd capital and the Mail launches its “SAVE THE they are going to continue to long-term figures do not have to HAZLITT” campaign on Face- book. The public outcry begins. MORTGAGES EQUITY RELEASE RE-MORTGAGE BUY-TO-LET FIRST TIME BUYERS By 8pm, nearly 2,000 readers have joined. Downs Mail readers ex- Cllr Jonathan Purle, who led the cross-party delegation to call in the decision to close the Hazlitt Theatre Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits. press rage and dismay in mes- sages. nately the conclusion”. strongly urged members of the resolution for a deferment until NOVEMBER 17: Nearly 90% of ERL to take the option which January 19 2021, to allow for NOVEMBER 15: The “SAVE THE greater clarity on points raised. HAZLITT” campaign following respondents to a Downs Mail poll saves the most money and leaves declare the Hazlitt issue would af- the authority least contractually The Tories succeeded by a sin- rises to 3,500. A cross-party dele- gle vote (8 to 7) with the help of fect the way they would vote in tied – ending the Parkwood con- gation of borough councillors, led Lib Dem Nick de Wiggondene- by Cllr Jonathan Purle and sup- the next council election. tract. The “SAVE THE HAZLITT” We are recruiting Facebook page’s followers top Sheppard and independent Gor- ported by Cllrs Louise Brice NOVEMBER 19: The Downs don Newton. The deferment was 5,000. (Con), Eddie Powell (Ind), Ash- Mail “SAVE THE HAZLITT” opposed by Liberal Democrats, leigh Kimmance (Lib Dem) and Facebook page has attracted 4,300 NOVEMBER 25: The P&R com- Labour and an independent. carers in your area... Lottie Parfitt-Reid (Con), writes to followers. We reveal that MBC’s mittee, chaired by the MBC leader JANUARY 7: MBC announced the MBC chief executive Alison own papers show the Hazlitt con- Cllr Martin Cox, sits for four Broom to “call in” the ERL deci- that the ERL meeting on January tributes £5m to the local economy. hours. Despite his earlier state- sion before the Policy & Re- 19 had been delayed by a week sources Committee (P&R). P&R until January 26. has the power to overturn the de- The council took fright at the JANUARY 18: Council papers ap- cision. The delegation complains pear online for the ERL meeting the “fate of the Hazlitt had not … public reaction so close to on January 26, with a U-turn on its been subject to any form of pub- earlier position, recommending Need help lic consultation”. the (May 6) local elections... “the council continues to pay its Become NOVEMBER 15: ERL chairman agreed contract fee to Parkwood or advice? Paul Harper (Lab), part of the Lib- Leisure for the provision of ser- NOVEMBER 20: The Friends of ment, Cllr Cox now claims the a foster eral Democrat/Labour/Indepen- vices at the Hazlitt Arts Centre”. the Hazlitt claim MBC “owes it to Parkwood Theatre contract has dent coalition in charge of MBC, “ Cllr Purle said: “It's basically a the people of Maidstone to re- not been terminated. It becomes issues a statement claiming the complete U-turn. It's a victory for carer Speak to open the theatre as soon as clear some members would seek the people and common sense.” COVID-19 pandemic has seen the clarity on MBC’s closure” and COVID-19 restrictions are lifted”. council’s finances “wrecked”. He “mothballing” proposals, amid JANUARY 26: The ERL commit- blamed the “National Conserva- NOVEMBER 23: Downs Mail re- wider concerns that the ERL panel tee unanimously votes to retain one of our tive Government” for the cuts. ports Hazlitt Theatre’s manager, had not had sufficient time to Parkwood, with a review in April. NOVEMBER 16: 4.54pm: A press Martin Cleverley, has written to evaluate the detail or conse- Council officials now claim the friendly team release drops from MBC. It says council top brass to warn that Earl quences. roll out of Coronavirus vaccines the ERL took the “very difficult Street will become deserted. There were impassioned has shifted the council’s position. decision to end the contract with NOVEMBER 24: Confidential speeches from members of the But one insider said: “They took Parkwood Theatres”, which runs “yellow” papers, obtained by public. fright at the public reaction so the Hazlitt for the council. Cllr Downs Mail and published online Cllrs Cox and Harper offer close to the (May 6) local elec- Martin Cox, the Liberal Democrat ahead of the following night’s other suggested uses for the venue tions.” WWW.LIGHTHOUSEFOSTERING.CO.UK 03333 441 914 leader of MBC claimed “the ter- crunch vote to save the Hazlitt but these are rejected in favour of JANUARY 27: PM Boris Johnson mination option was unfortu- Theatre, show unelected officers Tory member Jonathan Purle’s extends lockdown until March 8. 9 News downsmail.co.uk Cyclist in fatal crash is named Friends line streets to THE teenager who died after a collision in Maidstone has been named locally as Oliver Waller. It is believed the teenager (18) say farewell to Matty was involved in a collision with a white Volvo XC60 while out cy- A FORMER Malling School pupil turned on its head 15 months be- cling on a BMX in Sutton Road at who died on Boxing Day from a fore we lost Matthew, when we around 5.40pm on January 1. brain tumour has been laid to rest were told he had a terminal illness. Ambulance crews were called as people lined the streets of the “He had a beautiful send-off, I’m and Oliver was taken to a London town where he lived. happy he’s at peace now. Matthew hospital. He died on January 12. Friends turned out as Matthew was a great big, strong and caring Anyone who saw the incident Scott’s hearse passed through East man right up until his last few who has not yet spoken to officers, Malling to the crematorium. weeks. or who has CCTV or dashcam Keen cricketer Matthew (43), “He was always more concerned footage, is urged to call the Serious husband to Tracy and dad to 18- about me, the boys and his wider Collision Investigation Unit on year-old twins Tom and Oliver, family and never wanted to be a 01622 798538, quoting reference 01- grew up and lived in East Malling, burden. 1190. before moving to Ditton. “I knew I had a special husband, Known to many as Matty, he but seeing his friends outside his Plan response was diagnosed with a glioblastoma local, The Rising Sun, with pints of multiforme (GBM) brain tumour lager in their hands, as well as RESPONSES to Maidstone Bor- 15 months before his untimely cricketers from his teams at ough Council on its Local Plan Re- view update grew to almost 3,000 death. Addington and Offham with their once the consultation period was His friend Lisa Tolley had the bats in the air and his football team extended beyond Christmas. idea to raise funds for the charity, in their East Malling kit was amaz- Many were about plans for two Brain Tumour Research, by run- ing and got me quite emotional. garden villages, more relating to ning two miles a day throughout “Matthew had a roofing company Lidsing than Lenham Heath. They January and Matty’s brother Neil and after his diagnosis, he went are being considered by officers decided to join her. Their fundrais- ahead with an extension to our and will be reported to a council ing now totals more than £22,000. house to make sure we had a com- committee on March 9. Tracy said: “Our world was fortable home after he had gone.”

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10 News downsmail.co.uk Cyclist in fatal crash is named Friends line streets to THE teenager who died after a collision in Maidstone has been Will your Fence weather named locally as Oliver Waller. It is believed the teenager (18) say farewell to Matty was involved in a collision with a white Volvo XC60 while out cy- A FORMER Malling School pupil turned on its head 15 months be- the next storm? cling on a BMX in Sutton Road at who died on Boxing Day from a fore we lost Matthew, when we around 5.40pm on January 1. brain tumour has been laid to rest were told he had a terminal illness. Ambulance crews were called as people lined the streets of the “He had a beautiful send-off, I’m and Oliver was taken to a London town where he lived. happy he’s at peace now. Matthew hospital. He died on January 12. Friends turned out as Matthew was a great big, strong and caring Anyone who saw the incident Scott’s hearse passed through East man right up until his last few who has not yet spoken to officers, Malling to the crematorium. weeks. or who has CCTV or dashcam Keen cricketer Matthew (43), “He was always more concerned footage, is urged to call the Serious husband to Tracy and dad to 18- about me, the boys and his wider Collision Investigation Unit on year-old twins Tom and Oliver, family and never wanted to be a 01622 798538, quoting reference 01- grew up and lived in East Malling, burden. 1190. before moving to Ditton. “I knew I had a special husband, Known to many as Matty, he but seeing his friends outside his Plan response was diagnosed with a glioblastoma local, The Rising Sun, with pints of With Autumn multiforme (GBM) brain tumour lager in their hands, as well as RESPONSES to Maidstone Bor- upon us – it’s the 15 months before his untimely cricketers from his teams at ough Council on its Local Plan Re- perfect time to start view update grew to almost 3,000 death. Addington and Offham with their preparing your garden once the consultation period was His friend Lisa Tolley had the bats in the air and his football team extended beyond Christmas. idea to raise funds for the charity, in their East Malling kit was amaz- for the Winter weather. Many were about plans for two Brain Tumour Research, by run- ing and got me quite emotional. At the point the fence resisting rusting ning two miles a day throughout “Matthew had a roofing company garden villages, more relating to blows down or rots and and rotting in the rain, Lidsing than Lenham Heath. They January and Matty’s brother Neil and after his diagnosis, he went are being considered by officers decided to join her. Their fundrais- ahead with an extension to our falls it becomes a real cracking, warping or shrinking and will be reported to a council ing now totals more than £22,000. house to make sure we had a com- headache and an urgent in the sun and fallen panels committee on March 9. Tracy said: “Our world was fortable home after he had gone.” ȵȸȒƫǼƺȅɎȒˡɴǣȇȒȸƳƺȸɎȒ when the wind blows. keep your garden secure. ColourFence is available in 4 Don’t wait for your fence to Many customers install different colours that can be blow down this winter, our ColourFence for the peace mixed and matched to create revolutionary metal garden of mind that storms won’t stylish designs that would take fencing is the cost effective, leave them the bill, and hassle hours of painting and there’s low maintenance alternative involved in getting urgent no need to paint your new to traditional fencing, call now repairs done. ColourFence fence for the entire length for a free, no-obligation site stands up to the British weather, of the 25-year guarantee.* survey and quote today.

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ColourFence_A4_Autumn_approved.indd 1 17/09/2019 11:59 11 News downsmail.co.uk Covid police KENT Police have revealed a ‘Uphill battle’ against spike in COVID-19 cases among its frontline officers. But senior managers said enough manpower was available to cope with demand. lockdown litter crisis There were 73 positive cases for coronavirus in all ranks in THE lockdown has seen a mas- Organisers said they noticed a November, the latest recorded sive increase in the amount of reduction in sweet wrappers and data. Most positive test results rubbish being thrown away on takeaway wrappers due to were at constable level. roads and country lanes in the schools being closed, but a big borough. rise in discarded face masks. Crossing plan Trevor Walker, of Woodlands Leeds borough councillor Gill Road, Ditton, was so fed up with Fort has regularly highlighted the A REVISED planning application looking out of his window watch- issue of rubbish being thrown is set to be submitted for the ing the empty cans and bottles from cars as they are driven Lower Thames Crossing in April. mount up he decided to do some- through the village, particularly Highways experts need to re- thing about it. waste from takeaway outlets. solve some “technical issues” The retired councillor managed A litter pick is scheduled for after pulling the original scheme to fill an entire wheelie bin with February 15, after concerns were in December, but executive direc- rubbish on his walk near Ayles- raised with Leeds parish council tor Matt Palmer said the project is ford train station. that illegal dumping was again still going ahead. Mr Walker (64), pictured, said: becoming a problem. “I understand it is annoying for The council suggested that if Crash injury some people that pubs and coffee everyone could keep their house A PERSON was taken to hospital shops are shut, but the amount of front clear, it would help to re- after a car overturned in Leeds litter we are seeing in lockdown duce the issue. village at 4.40pm on January 30. has definitely gone up. Previous litter picks have pro- Emergency crews blocked off “It took me over four hours just duced dozens of bags of rubbish the B2163 between The Square to clear the road, and because In Vinters Park, 11 residents strewn on grass verges with parts and the entrance to Burberry lane. there was so much I struggled to took part in a litter pick and col- of cars, such as wing mirrors, It is not thought the injuries carry it all. We seem to be losing lected a total of 17 bags of rubbish hubcaps and registration plates, were serious. an uphill battle.” and fly-tipped waste. among the most regular finds.

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13 News | Lenham housing downsmail.co.uk ‘Worried sick’ Landowners fear losing about project IN A letter to Pinsent Masons, SOHL's Kate Hammond said: “It homes in Heath scheme is important to remind you of the human impact your client’s LANDOWNERS at Lenham proposals are having on this Heath who are unwilling to sell group of landowners. to Maidstone Borough Council “The stress caused as a result (MBC) for its massive 4,000 house of the uncertainty is leading to “garden community” fear their some of our landowners having properties are under threat of sleepless nights and to be sick compulsory purchase or demoli- with worry." tion. MBC has, in recent weeks, hinted at stepping aside from Lawyers for 18 residents, all of the project, leaving the future to whom own small plots, have been Homes England, the govern- told by Yorkshire-based legal firm ment’s social housing body. The Pinsent Masons, representing council has still to sign an offi- MBC, that the authority hopes to cial agreement with HE. proceed with an agreement. removed from the MBC plans and wish to see existing homes lost to None of the five principal MBC, the self-styled “master de- have appointed Knights solicitors make way for new development, landowners has yet agreed veloper” of the project, has been to represent their interests. and indeed the current masterplan terms with MBC. The authority accused of causing property own- Pressure group Save Our Heath shows all existing homes retained, is under pressure to fulfil the ers “mental stress and anxiety”. Lands (SOHL) wrote to local coun- inclusive of a “green” buffer Government’s massive housing A letter, written by Pinsent Ma- cillors stating: “(Lenham Heath) is around them in order to manage targets. sons’ partner Anne Bowden and a council-led scheme…now resort- the transition between the existing At a recent meeting of MBC’s seen by Downs Mail, states: "....the ing to scaring residents and threat- and proposed new community.” policy and resources committee, council wishes to proceed so far as ening compulsory purchase of Borough councillor Eddie Pow- MBC’s Lenham project top offi- possible by agreement and to their homes.” ell said: “This is intimidation, pure cer, William Cornall, agreed with avoid acquisition and demolition A council spokesman said: and simple. Put simply, the resi- a councillor’s assertion that the of people’s existing homes”. “MBC has been on record from the dents are being told ‘give in or project was “not set in stone”. The 18 have already asked to be outset of the project that it does not we'll knock your house down’.”

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17 News downsmail.co.uk Poetry please COMMUNITY noticeboards in Bearsted are to be given a boost Post oﬃce saved after with poems written by villagers. Residents are invited to send in verse they have penned and would like to share. Contact the parish funding is extended council. THE future of Yalding Post Office Homes online has been secured for another year. Sub-postmaster Tim Chapman TWO Aylesford entrepreneurs said the village branch was on the have launched an online estate brink of closure in October last agency. year since it relies heavily on the John-Paul Rafferty and Paul Core Tier Payment scheme. Tim Chapman Pickard opened Rafferty and Without the subsidy, many sub- at Yalding Post Pickard on January 2. They will postmasters feared community of- Ofﬁce, which run the online business from fices across Kent would shut. premises in High Street, Aylesford. has been given Now Mr Chapman says the ex- a reprieve for tension means he will receive another year Council role funding to the end of March 2022. the Government has recognised Yalding Post Office receives THREE applications were received Mr Chapman said: “It keeps us for the vacancy on Leeds Parish going for another year so we are that post offices are a critical part about £1,000 a month in subsidy, Council. The choice between Scott very happy. of the country's essential infras- which is taxed as earnings. Bernini, Ben Gallafant and Stephen “I think people would miss us if tructure, supporting millions of Postal affairs minister Paul Cutler went to a members’ vote. we were gone. If we had to shut for people and small businesses. Scully wrote in a letter to postmas- Mr Bernini was elected. good a lot of residents would be “The work postmasters have ters: “Postmasters and their staff severely inconvenienced. done throughout the COVID-19 have worked tirelessly to ensure “We are just really pleased to be pandemic is a powerful reminder vital post office services continue Clock funds able to stay open. We have worked of how important having a post of- to be available to communities LEEDS Parish Council is to con- very hard and stayed relatively fice is, not just to people in local across the country. I know how tribute £3,000 towards the cost of busy over the lockdown.” communities but to the thousands tough these months have been on re-gilding the clock on the tower of Nick Read, chief executive of the of small businesses which keep the you and your families and there St Nicholas’ Church. Post Office, said: “I am delighted economy going.” are challenging weeks ahead.”

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18 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Advertisement Feature Poetry please COMMUNITY noticeboards in Bearsted are to be given a boost Post oﬃce saved after COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTIONS IN MAY with poems written by villagers. Residents are invited to send in WE DO not know whether the scheduled elections for May 6 will PLANNING go ahead or be delayed. What we can say is we do not believe verse they have penned and would LOCAL residents regularly feel let down by poor planning postponing elections is healthy for our democratic traditions, so it like to share. Contact the parish funding is extended decisions with recent over-development in the South-East is imperative we do all we can to ensure these elections take place council. Maidstone area being a prime example. Many residents may be as scheduled. Local Conservatives are following guidance by not THE future of Yalding Post Office aware of the dire situation at Church Lane, Otham, where, despite currently knocking on doors to canvass your votes or sticking has been secured for another year. strong local objections, an inappropriate development was Homes online lea ets through doors. Anything you receive from us will come Sub-postmaster Tim Chapman permitted after appeal. TWO Aylesford entrepreneurs said the village branch was on the either via Royal Mail or via social media or via self-funded articles, have launched an online estate brink of closure in October last such as this. Gary Cooke worked hard with local residents and parish councils to agency. year since it relies heavily on the oppose this development, believing the surrounding road network Whenever the elections are held, we are delighted to conrm that John-Paul Rafferty and Paul Core Tier Payment scheme. Tim Chapman was unsafe, a view supported by the statutory Highway Authority. we have both been selected to stand again as Conservative Party Pickard opened Rafferty and Without the subsidy, many sub- at Yalding Post Unfortunately, the planning inspector ignored the views of the Pickard on January 2. They will candidates in Maidstone South and Maidstone South East. postmasters feared community of- Ofﬁce, which residents, the County Councillor and the Highway Authority. run the online business from fices across Kent would shut. has been given premises in High Street, Aylesford. Now Mr Chapman says the ex- We believe that it is vitally important the council makes its a reprieve for objections rmer and clearer from the outset to ensure future tension means he will receive another year WE WILL NOT SUPPORT WHAT Council role funding to the end of March 2022. WE BELIEVE IS AN EXCESSIVE planning decisions are not implemented in this way. The costs of the Government has recognised Yalding Post Office receives getting planning wrong are far too high, and it is simply unfair on THREE applications were received Mr Chapman said: “It keeps us 5% INCREASE IN RATES going for another year so we are that post offices are a critical part about £1,000 a month in subsidy, local residents to continue to be ignored while having to live with for the vacancy on Leeds Parish the consequences. Council. The choice between Scott very happy. of the country's essential infras- which is taxed as earnings. COVID-19 has aected us all to some Bernini, Ben Gallafant and Stephen “I think people would miss us if tructure, supporting millions of Postal affairs minister Paul degree but for some it has been devastat- Cutler went to a members’ vote. we were gone. If we had to shut for people and small businesses. Scully wrote in a letter to postmas- ing and, as county councillors, we are Mr Bernini was elected. good a lot of residents would be “The work postmasters have ters: “Postmasters and their staff aware of the hardship caused to families LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE severely inconvenienced. done throughout the COVID-19 have worked tirelessly to ensure we represent. We'll always put the LARGE parts of Maidstone are already snarled up with excessive “We are just really pleased to be pandemic is a powerful reminder vital post office services continue interests of our residents rst and therefore trac, aecting local residents with longer journey times and Clock funds able to stay open. We have worked of how important having a post of- to be available to communities at this dicult time with so many families facing hardship, we have heavy pollution. This has grown worse over many years as car LEEDS Parish Council is to con- very hard and stayed relatively fice is, not just to people in local across the country. I know how concluded a 5% increase in KCC’s rates is too much and we are usage has increased and new developments have sprung up. But tribute £3,000 towards the cost of busy over the lockdown.” communities but to the thousands tough these months have been on unable to support it. re-gilding the clock on the tower of Nick Read, chief executive of the of small businesses which keep the you and your families and there the road network has largely failed to keep pace. St Nicholas’ Church. Post Office, said: “I am delighted economy going.” are challenging weeks ahead.” Sadly, the situation on our roads isn’t the only concern. In many YOUTH PROVISION parts of Maidstone there is a real issue with important amenities. Many residents struggle to get registered with a GP nearby and too WE KNOW the Coronavirus is having a disproportionate adverse many children are unable to get places in their preferred schools, impact on the lives of our young people, which is why we strongly the impacts of which can be devastating on families. support all eorts to get our schools reopened both safely and as soon as possible! We are also aware from the young people Despite these problems, developers set aside large pots of funding themselves of the impact this has on their emotional wellbeing, specically to provide infrastructure improvements. It is therefore and we are committed to doing all we can to promote local mind-boggling in many cases this money remains unspent due to services helping young people to cope with anxiety and stress. excessive bureaucracy and red tape. This cannot continue. The solution is simple, rstly local councils must work together and

This is why we instigated and funded the rst ever YOUTH with local communities in an open and fair way to ensure that the DECIDES event in Kent, when a panel of young people awarded money gets spent in a constructive way, and secondly it is vitally grants totalling £10,240 to local organisations. We were delighted important Maidstone Borough Council examines all future p18 young people chose to prioritise developments on the basis of the improvement they can bring to projects providing support for the surrounding areas, ensuring that much needed infrastructure youth mental health and is included at an early stage. emotional well-being. All of the panel’s recommendations for funding were fully supported by ourselves and we have ensured that KCC implement those decisions. Gary and Paul will always do whatever they can to support young people in Maidstone South and South East both in the community and through our local schools.

Maidstone South & Maidstone South East Conservatives Contact Details; G [email protected] [email protected]

19 News downsmail.co.uk Chicken farm claims denied THE farming business behind a proposed chicken farm in the south of Maidstone has criticised a 15,000-signature petition set up by animal activists as “completely misleading”. People for the Ethical Treat- the community. PETA is calling venture, called Wealden Woods ment of Animals (PETA) is calling for this plan to be scrapped, spar- Free Range Farm, will comply for plans to build the new site at ing thousands of birds a lifetime with the “highest standards of an- Reed Court Farm to be scrapped. of suffering and an agonising imal welfare”. The animal rights campaigners death. A statement added: “It is com- have submitted a 15,000-signature “Cramming stressed animals pletely misleading to stay the petition against the application. together on farms like this one is hens will be ‘crammed’ indoors Hunton-based Fridays Ltd in- not only a living hell for animals, when we are proposing a free- tends to spend £8m on three huge but also creates a perfect breeding range facility set in 237 acres of hen houses, each holding up to ground for infectious diseases. open countryside. 64,000 birds. “Considering the negative im- “The health and wellbeing of Campaigners said the farm pact the Coronavirus pandemic our hens is paramount and we would cause “immense suffer- has had on our society, it’s imper- have strict procedures in place to ing” to the chickens as they ative that these facilities are no ensure their welfare, as well as a would be “crammed” into each of longer built in the UK.” rigorous inspection regime that the three proposed buildings. have spoken, and Maidstone Bor- Locals have voiced their con- includes the Animal and Plant Kate Werne, a PETA senior ough Council should heed their cerns about noise, waste manage- Health Agency (part of DEFRA), campaigns manager, said: “Thou- concerns for animal welfare, the ment, flooding and smells. the RSPCA and independent sands of compassionate people environment, and the health of A Fridays spokesman said the poultry veterinarians.” Carl ‘killed unlawfully’ Appeal grows for stolen Daisy POLICE have launched a campaign A FORMER teacher whose body to find a dog stolen from a retired was discovered on an Indian couple in Hollingbourne. Ocean island a decade ago was un- Cocker spaniel Daisy went miss- lawfully killed, an inquest has ing in Upper Street at around ruled. 8.50am on Monday, January 18. Carl Davies (33), whose family It is alleged a man in a white lived in Hollingbourne, died from flatbed truck stopped his vehicle head injuries after an assault. and stole the rescue dog, that was Mr Davies died on a night out in sitting outside an address. Reunion in 2011 after the vessel he The truck then left the scene up was working on as a security Hollingbourne Hill towards Sitting- guard docked there. He sustained bourne. up to four blows to the head. Taxi firm Streamline has posted a A man was convicted of his mur- reward to reunite the dog with Chapman said: “We want to do ev- has been shared over 160,000 der in 2017 but later released under heartbroken owners Pam (77) and erything we possibly can to reunite times. Anybody with information judicial supervision. Bill Nash (80). Daisy with her owners.” should call 01622 604100, quoting Food appeal Streamline spokesman Sarah A Facebook appeal to find Daisy reference 46/10049/21. A FOOD bank in Aylesford is looking for donations. Volunteers are working out of Popular organist Bob dies aged 100 the Brassey Centre in Station Road A MUCH-LOVED organist and credibly loved Bob was. to ensure no one goes hungry. choirmaster at St Nicholas Church “In his later years, he had trou- Donations of non-perishable in Linton has died aged 100. ble with poor eyesight so he mem- foods are distributed on Tuesdays, Bob Caudwell took up the post orised all the hymns and Thursdays and Saturdays. Call at the age of 76 when he first performed every one by memory. Aline Ongley on 07771 636872. moved to Kent and he played for “He was a popular, talented and Sunday services, weddings and fu- gracious man. He would put on Parking rise nerals. He would also help out at concerts and fundraisers for the A RISE in vehicles in Leeds church All Saints Church in West Farleigh church and would always enter- car park is causing headaches. He served with the Liverpool tain us with stories from the war. It is believed walkers are leav- Welsh Tank Regiment in WWII in teaching maths, science and music. “It is especially sad because he ing their cars there to use the Egypt, North Africa, Sicily, Italy He gained the Licentiateship of the spent his 100th birthday in lock- parkland in the Leeds castle es- and Greece. Royal Academy of Music and was down. He will be sadly missed.” tate, and, occasionally, one car Nottinghamshire-born Bob con- awarded the Fellowship of the Widower Bob died at home on was double-parked. ducted the regimental choir for Royal College of Organists. January 27 from prostate cancer. The PCSO suggests the parish concerts broadcast by the BBC. Rev Peter Callway said: “When I He leaves a daughter-in-law, Ju- council uses cones and upgraded He later enrolled as a teacher and first joined the church, one of the dith, and two teenage grandsons, signs to control the problem. spent the rest of his working life first things I noticed was how in- twins Fred and George.

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21 News downsmail.co.uk King Street’s pop-up path Traveller site plans ‘not ‘was chaotic’ “DID you not hear in Maidstone the cheer from Bearsted?” Cllr Val handled consistently’ Springett (Bearsted) asked KCC Highways, when they announced A PLANNING application for a gypsy site turned into a debate about the removal of the pop-up cycle route in King Street. Maidstone Borough Council’s “lack of consistency”, writes Jade Schopman. She was one of several members of Kent/Maidstone Joint Transport Councillors argued the authority get away with it, they will continue Board who welcomed the removal failed to enforce its own rules sur- to do so. My issue is that we either and warned that any future King rounding gypsy caravan parks. start having a policy whereby we Street scheme must avoid pitfalls. The discussion was prompted by start treating all of them exactly the “It caused chaos for east Maid- an application to change the use of same, or you don’t do anything. stone,” she added and said she land at The Three Sons in Park “But at the moment it’s very would not support narrowing to a Wood Lane, Staplehurst. much on an ad hoc basis. One single lane the property build-out Local borough and parish coun- wins, one loses. I don’t think that’s area and traffic lights. cillor John Perry, pictured, said fair to the traveller community and Cllr Gary Cooke expressed con- pitch targets had already been I don’t think it’s fair to the com- cerns of the disabled, who lost more than met. munity of Staplehurst.” parking bays in both the Earl Street He told the MBC planning com- Staplehurst Parish Council said and King Street pop-up schemes. mittee: “We have supposedly clear it felt frustrated that the policies of Cllr Rob Bird supported him and policies and yet they do not seem the local plan and Staplehurst called for an equalities impact as- to count for anything. It just gets “We are not forced to accept this. Neighbourhood Plan could be sessment, notably for the blind, in overridden and we see this time I cannot support this.” overturned in one year. any future such projects. He also and time again in this area. We are Cllr Eddie Powell said: “It is A statement read: “This does not wanted to know who was ques- paying a very bad price for it. about consistency. make sense and undermines our tioned in the new KCC King Street “Words fail me how these keep “Gypsy and traveller sites have confidence in the planning sys- public survey. slipping through. We turned a site been turned down and let’s be hon- tem.” Cllr Dan Daley said bicycles which was an open site into a est, they are very similar in their ap- Councillors decided to approve were rarely seen in the town cen- gypsy and traveller site. I accept proach and style, pushing things the application for The Three Sons tre. He said changing habits to cy- we need pitches, but we have more slightly to the edge. use of land with conditions of com- cling and walking “is not going to than met our pitch target. “All the time they are allowed to pliance. happen”. Russell Boorman, Kent High- ways officer, promised proper rig- Plan to raise orous consultation in future and said they should have been more lorry weight mindful of disabled bays. COUNCILLORS have criticised Cllr Clive English called for a site government plans to allow heav- meeting with Kent Highways to ier, but fewer, vehicles on the consider the Earl Street scheme. roads. Ministers propose to increase Youth awards the maximum amount of goods a TWO young people from Maid- lorry can carry from 44 tonnes to stone have been awarded the 48 tonnes in a four-year trial. This British Citizen Youth Award for would be restricted to HGVs community work. whose cargo will also need to be Michael Prentice (8) and Hollie- transported by boat or rail. Grace Gough (11) were recognised The Department for Transport for encouraging others to do good said freight travel within the UK deeds. The pair ran cake stalls, sold would become more efficient plants and ran a gardening club. with fewer lorries on the roads. It They received their awards by would also support the move- courier but will be invited to a re- ment of goods by ferry and rail. ception at the House of Lords But it is bad news for commu- when it is safe. nities, such as Leeds and Langley villages, plagued by lorries defy- ing a ban locals say the police “are Hygiene fail totally disinterested in enforc- Lambs herald the spring ing”. A FAST-FOOD takeaway in Maid- YOU know spring is not so far away when the snowdrops have just gone A trial for Kent has not been stone has been given a zero rating and the first lambs are born. ruled out. If approved, this would by the Food Standards Agency. All over the borough, farmers are getting ready for the busy lambing cover a route of up to 50 miles. Lo- Fantastic Chicken, in Sandling season, and at Kent Life, the popular heritage charity, three baby ewes cals authorities could receive up Road, failed a health inspection were welcomed in as many days in January. to £500,000 of grant cash. on November 20. The inspector Kent Life, currently shut because of lockdown restrictions, is still a work- Kent County Council’s trans- said the cleanliness and condition ing farm. A spokesman said: “The animals have to be cared for, no matter port committee opposed the of the building needed urgent im- what. And after all the tough times, it's lovely to see our new lambs.” move, describing it as a “Trojan provement. Picture: Mollie Gamble, Kent Life Officers are due to revisit shortly. Horse”. 22 downsmail.co.uk COVID-19 | News Police issue Mortuary ‘a sure sign stiff penalties MORE than 700 people in Kent have been fined for breaching Coronavirus restrictions since the of Kent’s virus threat’ beginning of the pandemic. Since March 2020, a total of 729 THE need for a temporary mortuary in response to the rapid rise of people have been fined between £200 and £1,000 for having house COVID-19 underscores the severity of Kent’s situation, say experts. parties, making unnecessary journeys, breaching travel regulations The Kent Resilience Forum uary. The Aylesford site can ac- now have 19 symptom-free testing opened the facility in Beddow commodate 825 bodies while sites across Kent and it is vital that or going to public places whilst Way, Aylesford, on New Year’s awaiting funerals, and officials say we continue to identify anyone infected with the disease. Day to ease the pressure on the no post-mortem examinations are who tests positive in order that Assistant Chief Constable Claire county’s hospital mortuaries as to be carried out there. they can self-isolate. Nix said: “We remain in critical they reach capacity. Director of Public Health for “We must do everything we can times, and whilst NHS staff have Since the new strain of the virus Kent, Andrew Scott-Clark, said: to break the chain of transmission.” been remarkable in what they surfaced in Kent, almost 800 cases “The fact that mortuary capacity Assistant chief constable of Kent have achieved, they are still deal- per 100,000 people have been across Kent is now overwhelmed Police, Claire Nix, who is also the ing with an overwhelming recorded. and that this temporary facility is chair of the Kent Resilience Forum, amount of seriously-ill patients. More than 3,000 died and in the in use shows us all the shocking re- said: “The fact that a temporary “The limitations posed by lock- final two weeks of 2020, more peo- ality that COVID-19 is a very real place of rest has had to be set up in down are difficult for everyone, ple died of COVID-19 in the South threat indeed. Kent should serve as a stark re- and it is testament to the people of East than anywhere else in Eng- “The new variant of the virus is minder that the country is at a crit- Kent that the vast majority of res- land and Wales. thought to be up to 70% more ical point, and we must all idents have changed their way of Experts predicted infections transmissible than we saw in the understand how dangerous life to help stop the spread of this would peak in the middle of Jan- first wave of the pandemic. We COVID-19 is.” virus and protect the most vulnerable within the community. “I would like to thank these people for making such sacrifices, 3,500 laptops which will not only take the strain off the NHS, but ultimately save ‘not enough’ lives.” THE 3,500 laptops issued by the Government to disadvantaged students are not enough, according to Fund pledge headteachers and councillors. A CROWDFUNDING scheme is The Department for Education to be piloted by Kent County (DfE) has also provided just over Council (KCC) to help dozens of 400 4G routers to the county’s community groups struggling fi- youngsters who are struggling nancially from the pandemic. with their home wifi connections, KCC pledged to launch an on- since the third national lockdown line fund to support cash- was announced. strapped local groups working Education Secretary Gavin for the benefit of residents and ex- Williamson said 100,000 laptops pand volunteering opportunities. were delivered to schools across The authority has pledged to Patients receive vaccines match fund a forecasted £10,000 England last month. HEADCORN GP Surgery became a busy vaccination centre in January for raised from public donations. However, over 200,000 Kent stu- a large area of the Weald, including Yalding, Marden and Staplehurst, but West Malling county councillor, dents are working from home, data stretching to many major villages to the south. from KCC reveals, not all of whom A large team of professionals and volunteers ensured a swift flow of pa- Cllr Trudy Dean (Lib Dem) said: have wifi and laptop access. tients through the spacious Grigg Lane surgery. Among the busiest volun- “I have been involved in a few County Hall’s main opposition teers were car park attendants faced with a busy flow of vehicles, many crowdfunding exercises which leader, Cllr Rob Bird (Lib Dem), visiting this countryside surgery for the first time. have been very good. said: “The 3,500 laptops are Our picture shows Downs Mail President Dennis Fowle receiving his jab. “There are people who have a nowhere near enough. I’d argue Patient collapses: The surgery team resuscitated a patient on his way to great more disposable income that KCC should be doing much a vaccination after he collapsed in the car park. He was taken to hospital now, because they are not spend- more to secure extra.” showing good signs of improvement. ing so much on things like transport.” Early buses THOSE with concessionary bus ‘Cabs for jabs’ taxi service Groups ned passes will now be able to use LOCAL cab firms are doing their Cars, which runs 17 taxis, said: A GROUP of people were handed them before 9.30am. bit to help during the roll-out of “All our cars have screens, mask- a £200 fine each for breaking lock- It applies to those with disabled the Government’s vaccination wearing and thorough cleaning down rules in Maidstone. or older person’s bus passes in programme. regime. Customers needn’t worry The group were seen riding Kent. Sapphire Cars and Express how long it takes for their vacci- scooters and playing loud music The temporary relaxation of the Cabs are offering to help the el- nation, we’ll hang on for them from cars at a car park in Sandling rules aims to help vulnerable peo- derly and vulnerable at a special and get them home safely.” Road on January 13. ple to get to and from vaccination rate, with no charges for waiting Call Express Cabs on 01622 The next day, two people who appointments as well as dedicated time. 222222 and Sapphire Cars on had met up in a car in Blue Bell shopping times. A spokesman for Sapphire 01622 663000. Hill were also fined £200 each.

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26 downsmail.co.uk News Arrest follows Thug jailed for attack armed robbery A SNODLAND man was arrested as part of an investigation into an armed robbery in Ramsgate. on woman and police The alleged burglary took place at a property in Claremont Gar- dens on June 15, 2020, where the A VICIOUS thug who punched and repeatedly kicked a woman in her victim had his phone stolen. home before hiding in her cupboard to evade police has been jailed. Officers recovered two imitation firearms on Tuesday, January 12. James Hynd (40) subjected the “Due to concerns that Hynd was A 36-year-old man from Snod- victim, who is known to him, to a unwell, he was taken to a local hos- land was arrested on suspicion of sudden and prolonged assault out- pital and placed under the super- aggravated burglary and posses- side her Maidstone home before at- vision of Kent Police officers. While sion of a firearm with intent to tempting to hide in her bedroom. being monitored, he threatened vi- cause fear of violence. A 22-year- When he was found by police, he olence and directed racial abuse to- old man from Broadstairs was also assaulted two of them before going wards one of the constables. arrested on suspicion of conspiracy on to racially abuse a constable, “Upon being deemed fit for re- to commit robbery. and threaten further violence, lease from the hospital, he was es- They have both been released while in custody. corted to a police station and, while under investigation. The homeless man admitted as- being transported, twice spat in a Witnesses should call Kent Police sault, two counts of assaulting an police van. He was later charged on 01843 222289 quoting emergency services worker, threat- with each of the offences and has 46/101243/20. ening behaviour, criminal damage been held on remand since.” Alternatively, call Crimestoppers and racially-aggravated abuse. He PC Charlie Goddard, Kent Po- in Kent anonymously on 0800 555 was sentenced at Maidstone lice’s investigating office for the 111, or fill in the online form at Crown Court on Tuesday, January case, said: “Hynd has shown him- www.crimestoppers-uk.org. 19, to two years and three months self to be of exceptionally poor in jail. character. Hynd turned up at the woman's A police statement said: “Hynd “The assault he subjected upon Scam charge then entered a residential address home in Mill Street on Sunday, Au- the woman was vicious, frenzied A MAIDSTONE man has been through a window and officers gust 9, 2020, without invitation. and completely unprovoked. No charged with fraud after allegedly found him hiding inside a cup- They argued outside and the thug one should have to tolerate being scamming an elderly man. board. Upon being found, a strug- punched her in the head and re- on the receiving end of such vio- Danny-Lee Andrew (28) is re- gle took place which led to two peatedly kicked her as she lay on lence and I am pleased he has now ported to have taken the victim, a police officers being assaulted. the floor. faced justice for these actions.” man in his 80s, to Sittingbourne and Chatham to get money at a bank and a pawnbroker. Kent Police were called by staff Elderly woman robbed at home at a taxi company who were con- A WOMAN in her 80s was A neighbour found the victim the house and could have vital in- cerned for the man’s safety. punched in the face and knocked and reported the burglary to po- formation. A Kent Police spokesman said: to the floor in an aggravated bur- lice. Detectives have since carried The suspect is described as “The man said he had made a cash glary in Snodland. out house-to-house enquiries and being white, short, medium to payment to a man who claimed to A man forced his way into her are reviewing CCTV in the area. large build and in his late 30s, be from Swale Borough Council, home in Birling Road at around Officers are urging witnesses to possibly early 40s. for work at his property.” 7.20pm on Friday, January 22, come forward. They believe a Witnesses are asked to call Kent Andrew was arrested on Satur- and demanded money. woman who was running along Police on 01622 604100, quoting day, January 23. He was charged He then knocked the woman to the road at the time of the inci- reference 46/11496/21. You can with two counts of fraud and re- the floor before leaving her home dent may have passed the suspect also call Crimestoppers, anony- manded in custody to attend Med- with money and jewellery. when he was outside the front of mously, on 0800 555111. way Magistrates’ Court.

A PARCEL was stolen from a doorstep in Crime reports Anerley Close, Allington. A yellow Mini Cooper, registration Neighbourhood Watch GJ04***, was stolen in Forstal Road, Ayles- ford. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A window of a Honda Accord was smashed in Malling Road, Teston. A gate was damaged at a property in The nup Street, Fant, ran off when they were Berlingo in Grecian Street, Maidstone. Friars, Aylesford. disturbed. Fences were damaged at a nursery field A window was smashed at a house in A catalytic converter was stolen from a in Clapper Lane, Staplehurst. Malling Road, Teston. Honda Accord in Gidds Pond Way, Boxley. A gym was broken into by smashing a Two people were seen throwing some- Cash was stolen from a vulnerable person door in Clifford Way, Fant. thing into a Ford Fiesta which caught fire in in Caring Lane, Thurnham. A wood burning stove was stolen from a Fauchons Close, Bearsted. Parts were stolen from a pushbike house in Tonbridge Road, Mereworth. The driver's side window of a Ford Kuga chained to a tree in Quarry Square, Maid- A Citroen Berlingo was stolen and was smashed in Heath Road, Linton. stone. change, a petrol blower and chainsaw were Somebody set fire to three cars at a com- Flowerpots were stolen from outside a taken in Ritch Road, Snodland. mercial premises in Revenge Road, Boxley. property in Larking Drive, Allington. Objects were thrown at a moving vehicle Intruders who broke into a house in Hart- Hub caps were stolen from a Citroen in Impton Lane, Boxley.

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29 News downsmail.co.uk Warning after garden thefts New laws used to build RESIDENTS are being advised to keep sheds and outbuildings secure after a string of thefts. Three were targeted between 24 ats in Kingswood January 7 and 8 in London Road and Barleycorn in Leybourne. A KINGSWOOD businessman destroyed by widening developer Power tools, garden appliances has used controversial new plan- rights to convert many types of and a bicycle were stolen. ning rules to erect a block of 24 buildings to residential use without Another shed was broken into in flats in the village. the usual consents. King Street, West Malling. Rob Schroeder, the owner of Cllr Brian Clark won support Sgt Sarah Alvey said: “I would Kingswood Christmas Trees, has from other members of the Strategic advise residents to ock doors and used new legislation to convert a Planning and Infrastructure Com- windows and consider fitting a fire-damaged industrial estate into mittee when he pointed to the town shed alarm or security light. I accommodation without requiring centre, where offices were con- would urge anyone who sees planning permission first. verted to residential without the somebody acting suspiciously to Under the “ZA” permitted devel- need for planning permission. contact us on 101, or 999 if you be- opment rights (PDR) class, he can He is now fearful many leisure fa- lieve a crime is taking place.” bypass normal application scrutiny cilities and shops would not survive for the three- storey development the COVID-19 lockdowns and Crash arrest for a mix of one, two and three bed- could be converted to housing be- A DRIVER was arrested on suspi- room apartments at The Home- fore there was a chance for new cion of drink-driving after a car stead in Gravelly Bottom Road. and this is an opportunity for apart- businesses to take over. ploughed into a wall in Maidstone. Mr Schroeder, pictured, who has ments in a rural setting." Currently, permitted develop- The silver Ford Mondeo was been seeking formal planning per- Objector Hayley Roberts, of Cop- ment rights (PDRs) for a change of travelling along Busbridge Road mission for an 800 home eco village perfield Close, said: “This would use from commercial, business and on January 15 when it crashed, nar- on his land, said: “The new rules put unnecessary strain on an al- service uses (Class E) to residential rowly missing a postbox. mean if the site is a former indus- ready overused and struggling in- apply to July 31 this year. The driver (27) and a passenger trial estate, you are allowed one frastructure. The roads around Now Government proposes a were taken to hospital, but their in- house or flats there. Kingswood could not cope…” single PDR to enable change of use juries were not described as seri- “This was a site that was badly Fears were expressed by borough from almost any Class E property ous. fire damaged a couple of years ago councillors the town centre could be to residential.

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31 News downsmail.co.uk Slower traffic by design now Another step closer to HOUSING estates are being designed to control traffic speed to 20mph through layout and traffic- calming measures, Kent High- 181 Pea Fields houses ways have told Maidstone/Kent Joint Transportation Board. PLANS for a 180-plus housing There is no need for a policy for scheme in Barming has inched a legal 20mph limit as this is self closer to going ahead – but with enforcing, without the need for conditions attached. signing and road lines, says KCC. The Taylor Wimpey scheme off Police support this policy be- Oakapple Lane is now subject to a cause they lack the resources to working group thrashing out issues enforce legal limits. regarding open spaces and traffic Maidstone Liberal Democrats management. had requested a 20mph limit in It appears there is now a reluctant new housing developments, but consensus on the plan (pictured)for KCC says the issue is part of the 181 houses on land known locally current Kent Design Guide. as Pea Fields, after strong opposition to the development. about open spaces and bus routes, reptiles could be moved to Mote Brexit traﬃc Barming Parish Council rat running and road lay-outs. The Park met with challenge and it is EARLY signs of the impact of spokesman Fay Gooch said the scheme cannot go ahead until these hoped displaced animals could find Brexit on Maidstone area traffic roads are not wide enough for concerns are satisfied. Committee a new home closer by. are encouraging, the Maidstone buses and would create a rat-run to member Cllr Eddie Powell called If members chose to reject the ap- Joint Transportation Board heard. avoid congested Hermitage Lane. for a full geo-physical report into plication outright, committee chair- Cllr Val Springett said Opera- Maidstone Borough Council's the area, given the number of recent man Cllr Clive English warned: tion Stack had been a nightmare planning committee heard there sinkholes. “This is a lost appeal if ever I saw for the Bearsted area but Opera- were few reasons to deny the devel- Officers said the applicants had one...we will end up in a very diffi- tion Brock seemed to work well. opment. But Cllr Tony Harwood satisfied the requirements for site cult situation.” KCC Highways said there were gained approval for a motion to investigation and would carry out Six councillors voted for Cllr no Government proposals for form a delegation to work with more intrusive surveys as the pro- Harwood's motion, three ab- more lorry parks. other bodies to work on concerns ject progressed. Suggestions that stained and three were against.

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Ursula Hitcham silver medal in 1964 for the 50km walk father’s life. He Obituaries Slower traffic (both he and the Italian winner broke the moved locally in URSULA Jean Hitcham (89), of Hengist existing world record), an incredible run of 2003, but knew by design now Another step closer to Court, Marsham Street, lived locally for 96 consecutive victories in British race- people all over from many years after marrying husband Peter walking events between 1967 and 1971 his many years of HOUSING estates are being de- in 1956. and the achievement of being the rst playing cricket for signed to control traffic speed to Born Ursula Reid British athlete to compete in four Oakdene. 20mph through layout and traffic- in Stratford, London, successive Olympiads (1964 – 1976). “After he retired, calming measures, Kent High- 181 Pea Fields houses she moved to In 1976, he was awarded the MBE for my brother Graham ways have told Maidstone/Kent Maidstone with Peter services to his sport. took him to Lords to Joint Transportation Board. PLANS for a 180-plus housing when he served with Paul married Joan in 1964 and became see England play, a There is no need for a policy for scheme in Barming has inched 36 Engineering father to Tony, Clare and Vincent. He real high spot in our father’s life. a legal 20mph limit as this is self closer to going ahead – but with Regiment, stationed divorced and married his second wife, “People will remember him as a enforcing, without the need for conditions attached. at Maidstone Pauline, in 1990, although the couple gentleman; polite, well-mannered and signing and road lines, says KCC. The Taylor Wimpey scheme off Barracks. After living separated in 2009. considerate. He will be missed by his wife, Police support this policy be- Oakapple Lane is now subject to a in the barracks, He leaves his children, six grandchildren and children Graham, Susan, Marilyn and cause they lack the resources to working group thrashing out issues Ursula and Peter and a great-grandchild. Joanne.” enforce legal limits. regarding open spaces and traffic settled in Barming. When George and Betty received a card Maidstone Liberal Democrats management. Ursula was mother to Jane, Catherine from the Queen marking their 70 years of had requested a 20mph limit in It appears there is now a reluctant and David. Catherine said: “Our mother Peter Hart marriage, they were one of only 30 couples new housing developments, but consensus on the plan (pictured)for had a number of local involvements. She THE death of long-serving local bus driver to have reached that milestone in 2019. KCC says the issue is part of the 181 houses on land known locally and I ran Loose Girl Guides in the early Peter Hart (64) has led to widespread George leaves his wife, children, six current Kent Design Guide. as Pea Fields, after strong opposi- 1980s. tributes and a GoFundMe page to grandchildren and seven great- tion to the development. about open spaces and bus routes, reptiles could be moved to Mote “After our father died in 1993, she establish a memorial grandchildren. Brexit traﬃc Barming Parish Council rat running and road lay-outs. The Park met with challenge and it is moved into Maidstone and became a in his honour. EARLY signs of the impact of spokesman Fay Gooch said the scheme cannot go ahead until these hoped displaced animals could find member of St Luke’s congregation, where Peter, who spent 15 Charles Fraser Brexit on Maidstone area traffic roads are not wide enough for concerns are satisfied. Committee a new home closer by. she made many friends and assisted with years driving buses MAIDSTONE’S Charles Fraser (84) died of are encouraging, the Maidstone buses and would create a rat-run to member Cllr Eddie Powell called If members chose to reject the ap- many events and activities.” for Arriva, was Coronavirus on January 5. Joint Transportation Board heard. avoid congested Hermitage Lane. for a full geo-physical report into plication outright, committee chair- Ursula worked as an usher at preparing to retire Born in Aberdeen, Charles came to Cllr Val Springett said Opera- Maidstone Borough Council's the area, given the number of recent man Cllr Clive English warned: Marlborough Street Magistrates Court in when he died. He England in the late tion Stack had been a nightmare planning committee heard there sinkholes. “This is a lost appeal if ever I saw London, retiring in 1996. regularly drove the 50s as a soldier for the Bearsted area but Opera- were few reasons to deny the devel- Officers said the applicants had one...we will end up in a very diffi- She leaves her daughters, grandchildren number ve route stationed in tion Brock seemed to work well. opment. But Cllr Tony Harwood satisfied the requirements for site cult situation.” Thomas, Rebecca, James, Joseph, Kieran from Maidstone to Sheerness. He met KCC Highways said there were gained approval for a motion to investigation and would carry out Six councillors voted for Cllr and Lucy and three great-grandchildren. Hawkhurst, and and married wife of no Government proposals for form a delegation to work with more intrusive surveys as the pro- Harwood's motion, three ab- Son, David, pre-deceased her. social media tributes 61 years, Jeanne. more lorry parks. other bodies to work on concerns ject progressed. Suggestions that stained and three were against. have been left by passengers. Charles later worked Paul Nihill Peter, who lived in Maidstone with his for Reed’s Paper Mill, OLYMPIAN Paul Nihill (81), from partner, Linda, died in Maidstone Hospital East Malling Medway, was a athlete with an illustrious of COVID-19 related causes. The father of Research Centre and history. He moved to the local area where three and grandfather of seven had Cobland’s he spent his later planned to spend more time playing golf Landscapes. years, becoming well in his retirement. Charles was father to Jackie, Andrew known for his His daughter, Louise Pepper, has and Isla. Andrew said: “My father had support of athletics spoken of her father’s love of his job, his many hobbies including drawing, darts, and boxing and colleagues, and a joke. reading and gardening. He specialised in noted as a radio bonsai trees and conifers. personality. George Farmer “He never forgot his Scottish roots and Born in Essex, Paul GEORGE Farmer (93) lived in Grove travelled back to the Highlands every year, overcame a troubled Green for almost 20 years and celebrated taking the family with him. p32 childhood and less- 70 years of marriage to Betty in 2019. “He inspired love and loyalty in those than-successful spell Born and raised on the edge of London, around him and this was repaid when he in the Army to George ran Farsams DIY shop in needed care late in his life. His become one of the most signicant race Bexleyheath for many years. granddaughter Keira Jane in particular walkers in British athletic history. George’s daughter, Susan, said: “Family stepped up to help. People will remember His achievements include an Olympic was the number one pleasure in my him as quiet, reserved, kind-hearted and ready to help others.” Charles leaves his wife, children, ve grandchildren and ve great- grandchildren.

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Play area The wetpour surface by the held in remembrance of Barrett Manning, Chart Sutton Parish Councils infant slide in the play area had been a former councillor and prominent Football The meeting heard that a repaired and the piece of equipment was resident of the parish. It was also agreed football match played in torrential rain back in operation. to make a donation of £100 to the Kent had cut up the pitch. Cllr Waring said he Noticeboards The perspex front panels in Air Ambulance in his name. would have postponed the match, had he the two noticeboards in Grasslands and Signs The revised quotation from MBC been made aware of the situation. Turgis Close had been replaced. for the installation of the signage at Lockdown had since given the grass time Planter The damaged planter at the Ashdown’s Walk and Doutrepont’s Walk to rest. entrance of the village hall car park had was discussed and the increased costs Bollard A resident has requested a been removed. explained. It was agreed to accept it. bollard on the grassed area outside Traffic calming The clerk had spoken to The Parade It was proposed to install Marshall’s Place to stop vehicles parking Jennie Watson about options for traffic galvanised steel angle irons to the there and killing the grass. Cllr Hotson calming in Heath Road and Horseshoes brickwork at the Parade to protect the advised that the ownership of the land Lane. It was advised that the best walls from damage by parking vehicles. would have to be established. However, solution would be a speed indicator The work would enhance property which bollards could cause safety issues. A site device, which could be moved did not belong to the council, but the visit would be carried out. periodically and raise the awareness of Parade was a recognisable and well Barriers The meeting heard that speed. It would cost £7-9,000 to buy and supported area of interest with residents. damaged metal/concrete barriers on install. It was agreed to contact Jennie It was also noted that MBC had already Green Lane had not yet been repaired. Watson to agree suitable locations and to undertaken repairs to the walls. The clerk conrmedKent Highways and ask Cllr Hotson whether a grant would Councillor Lain-Rose asked that the work was programmed. be available from his member’s fund. landlord be contacted to agree the works. Ditches The meeting heard that roadside Open spaces Cllr Woodcock continued to It was agreed to spend £630, subject to hedges were being cut back, leaving undertake a weekly inspection and the the landlord’s approval. debris in the ditches. Cllr Waring advised monthly Maidstone Borough Council New planters Councillors considered a that if the ditches were over a metre from inspection report was received. No new proposal for ower planters at each of the road, it was up to the landowner to issues had been reported. the village’s eight gateways. Cllr Riordan clear them. said permission had been received from IT equipment To enable the parish KCC to install them and the project council to meet via Zoom, three webcams would not attract any costs. He said the and a subscription to Zoom had been Loose wood had been donated by Cllr Gartan. purchased (as per the budget set at the Salts Woods Ian Ellis and Andy Cllr George said the bulbs and plants July meeting). Cllr Eric Hotson’s Humphryes from Boughton Monchelsea were being donated. Ongoing member’s grant would be used for these Amenity Trust updated the meeting on management and maintenance would be purchases. plans for Salts Wood. The trust is by the Greener Staplehurst Group. It was applying for two grants, the woodland agreed that the planters be installed. creation and carbon capture grant. The Bus shelter The clerk said the planting season is from October to Downswood investigation into MBC assuming February. The trust would need to order Crime report There had been no crimes responsibility for the new bus shelter on around 20,000 native cell trees once grant of note. The PCSO was still receiving the southbound side of Station Road was approval is received. They had gone out calls regarding speeding on Willington progressing positively and indications to tender for the contract and they had Street in the dip at the junction of were that MBC would adopt the shelter. their preferred contractor. There would Deringwood Drive, and also down Spot Final conrmation was hoped to be be paths around the eld, open to the Lane. Speed checks would continue. brought to the next meeting. public. The main entrance would be in There had been reports of bad parking. Puffin Crossing Work had now Hubbards Lane. Any vehicles causing an obstruction commenced on the puffin crossing in Well Street KCC had received a request would be moved. Marden Road, following council’s for a stopping order in Well Street. Cllr CCTV Following a request for CCTV agreement for such works. Gibbons said the idea had been raised footage from May, Cllr Weeks conrmed Merit awards The headmistress of the that recordings were kept for three before and been unsuccessful with KCC school had been approached to present months, before being deleted. Highways. It was agreed that the council the junior merit award and Cllr Buller Wildower planting The information could not support the project without would present the adult award. obtained by Cllr Newton from Parks and more information. Sponsorship of £300 had been received Open Spaces was circulated to all. Playing eld During the rst lockdown it for the awards from a local business. Members were advised to look at the was noted that a local rm were using S106 funds MBC was holding a Bovis Boston Seeds website, which had advice the car park of the KGV playing eld contribution of £67,083.45 and a number on sowing and maintenance. when it was closed. Staff at the school of ideas had been brought forward for Olympicnic It was agreed to hire two also use the car park during the day. It projects to spend these monies in line bouncy castles and a gladiator duel (for was agreed to ask both the school and the with the appropriate covenants. These older children). The cost would be business not to use the car park as a staff included a new path in Surrenden Field approximately £280. Other items would car park. to access the play area. be addressed closer to the time. Auditor report The report had not yet Drainage issues Cllrs Bowden and Perry Pumpkin trail Cllr Alden-Morris was been received. His agreement with the were thanked for their continued work in congratulated on the success of her idea. council nished at the end of the year. He trying to help resolve the issues in Two organisers were thanked for their would be able to do another two years Marden Road. The planning application help. for the council at a cost of £425 per visit regarding the removal of the hedge in (2021/2022 & 2022/2023). This is an Marden Road had been withdrawn increase of 6%. The council agreed to pending engineering surveys and Langley continue with the current internal reports. Littering The clerk said there was no auditor for the next two years. Sainsburys’ site The chairman had evidence of large scale littering along the liaised with a resident and Sainsbury’s Leeds Road, but it would continue to be about some signicant concerns about monitored and reported where Staplehurst the impact of construction works on a necessary. Remembrance A one-minute silence was property adjoining the site.

35 News | Health downsmail.co.uk NHS heroes hit by thefts How COVID-19 is HOSPITAL staff looking after COVID-19 patients have become victims of callous car thieves. The criminals waited until the hitting health care NHS heroes were on shift before stealing catalytic converters from their vehicles. THE huge impact of COVID-19 on Kent and Medway residents is recorded A Kent Police spokesman said: “The vehicles, which belonged to by Kent Clincal Commissioning Group (CCG). staff at Darent Valley Hospital, are The group says that by January Hospitals have been under ex- ensured patients were closely understood to have been targeted 18, in Kent there were 2,888 treme pressure from late Novem- monitored. in Darenth Wood Road between deaths within 28 days of a posi- ber to January, and the second About 20 military clinicians are 8am and 5.30pm on January 11.” tive test and 587 in Medway. In wave of the epidemic has seen helping at Kent hospitals and Anyone who may have seen addition, there were 2,342 with more than twice the number of non-clinical military staff assist in something suspicious or caught COVID-19 recorded on the death patients compared with the first. other hospital areas. something suspicious on their certificate and 394 in Medway. To relieve pressure and to re- GP teams have been asked to dashcams, is asked to call 01474 Positive cases in Kent totalled tain capacity for new emergen- prioritise services which support 366149 quoting 46/6159/21. 97,242 and 22,688 in Medway. cies, patients have been response to the virus, but about You can also contact the inde- This is an under-estimate, due to transferred between units, some 10 GP services have been sus- pendent charity Crimestoppers in lower levels of testing early in to hospitals in other parts of the pended until March 2021. Kent anonymously on 0800 555 111 the pandemic. NHS staff ab- country. The CCG expects staff work- or complete the online form at sences (currently about 5%) from Pressures in hospitals led to load to continue for some time. crimestoppers-uk.org. infection and self-isolation “have ambulance hand-overs taking “Staff are exhausted, but con- had a significant impact on ser- longer, with some waits of many tinue to dig deep and respond Private sector vices, from hospitals to ambulance hours in December and January. with extraordinary commit- services and general practice”. Hospitals and ambulance crews ment,” a spokesman said. beds called on COVID-19 pressures on other important hospital services have led the NHS Kent CCG to work with the independent sector to identify capacity for cancer diagnostics and surgery, clinically urgent surgery and step-down beds for medically stable patients as an alternative to the acute setting. The CCG says: “The intention is to focus on using particular sites for the priority areas and ensure, where possible, clinically priori- tised elective care continues.” Before the current wave of COVID-19, based on November 2020 information, the CCG was beating the national average for the key national standards. Queues as jabs are rolled out QUEUES formed outside the Harrietsham Coronavirus vaccination centre on January 14. Cars stretched to the Specialist care A20 and queues formed around the medical centre and village hall. Users praised the organisers and staff for their “caring and professional” approach on the day. One said: ‘merger plan’ “The cars were only queuing because the weather was foul.” As this picture shows, some preferred to walk. MANY Maidstone residents (26,500 Kent patients a year) have benefited from the skills at Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead. The hospital specialises in life- Serious shortage of practice GPs changing reconstructive surgery, burns care and rehabilitation for THE shortage of GPs across A further problem is that 25% countable officer, answering patients injured or disfigured Maidstone/West Kent and the of GPs (the highest in England) frustrations, said: “There is no through accidents or disease. rest of the county has been high- and 55% of general practice reduced access to GPs at this However, the service could face lighted by the budget-holding nurses are approaching retire- time – the only change is contact major changes later this year. NHS Kent and Medway Clinical ment age. with patients being conducted in Kent and Medway CCG reports Commissioning Group (CCG). “The primary care workforce a different way.” a potential merger with Brighton The ratio of GPs to patients in needs to move away from focus- Maidstone Borough Council is and Sussex University Hospitals Kent is among the lowest in the ing just on GP numbers and aware of GP surgery problems in due to increasing challenges. But UK. Kent requires another 45 work towards building capacity the borough and one aim in its it says it will only merge if services full-time equivalent GPs, 28 of teams (nurses, direct primary emerging new strategic plan is to are developed, it continues to serve nurses and 23 direct patient care care workers, health assistants, work with Kent CCG “to im- a wide area and world-class re- staff to match the national aver- receptionists),” says the CCG. prove local health care infras- search and innovation continue. age. Wilf Williams, the CCG ac- tructure”. 36 News | Health downsmail.co.uk

NHS heroes Classifieds downsmail.co.uk hit by thefts How COVID-19 is Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk HOSPITAL staff looking after COVID-19 patients have become victims of callous car thieves. The criminals waited until the hitting health care NHS heroes were on shift before stealing catalytic converters from their vehicles. 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In wave of the epidemic has seen helping at Kent hospitals and Telesales Manager Classified Sales Executive Classified Sales Executive Anyone who may have seen addition, there were 2,342 with more than twice the number of non-clinical military staff assist in BuildingE: natasha@ Services E: teresa@ Chimney MaintenanceE: rebecca.abbott something suspicious or caught COVID-19 recorded on the death patients compared with the first. other hospital areas. downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk @downsmail.co.uk something suspicious on their certificate and 394 in Medway. 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Cleaning Services Garden Services

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CROWN REDUCTION, FELLING, All types of Fencing & Gates 3 Plains Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7AT www.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk • Part P certi cation provided Installed & Repairs PRUNING, HEDGE & SHRUB - • All work NIC appoved and certi ed TRIMMING, CLEARANCE All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, SEASONED LOGS SUPPLIED, Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. - Free no obligation quotes MOWING (lawns) Logs Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, - No job too large or small FULLY INSURED (City & Guilds Hedge Cutting etc. NPTC qualified) 07966 511408 | 01634 920598 For a friendly & professional service & advice [email protected] Call Colin on 07521 377306 or 01622 853978 Please call:- 01622 743428 – LOGS – www.jnorriselectrical.co.uk Mob:- 07817 517 733 Four-year seasoned apple logs Fencing £100 load – £125 load Handyman DAVID WYNN GREEN MAN Any moisture test welcome on delivery. Tree & Garden Services Also other hardwoods available FREE DELIVERY – FREE STACKING SERVICE Hedge cutting Call Maidstone office: 01622 813750 Traditional Hedge laying or Mobile: 07854 615687 Fencing Landscaping www.wrightsfencing.co.uk Call our sales team now - Free estimates & advice - Fully insured Tel: 01622 892244 01622 630 330 No1 Locally Since 1996 Mobile: 07732 768331 Flooring TROWEL EFFECTS Maidstone Weald October 2017 39 TROWEL EFFECTS Landscaping POLISHED XPLASTER CONCRETE XSPECIALIST POLISHEDTROWEL XPLASTER EFFECTS CONCRETE XSPECIALIST POLISHED XPLASTER CONCRETE XSPECIALIST • Patios/Decking • Turfing Trowel Effects have been trading for 5 years, with over 14 years experience within the trade. • Artificial Grass • Carpentry We specialise in microcement bathrooms and floors, also silicone rendering. • Water Features No dirty grout lines, just a seamless waterproof finish. All quotations are free of charge. We are a Landscape specialist company that will take you through the process of creating your perfect garden. We cover everything from design through to Contact us on: 07765417715 completion, whilst providing the best standard of work and materials. 5 Year Guarantee on all hardscape projects that we undertake with our tailor made maintenance packages. Trowel Eﬀects Specialist Instagram: trowel_eﬀects_ Call: 01622 617388 or Email: [email protected] Garden Services www.vugarden.co.uk 20% discount* on production of this advert * not to be used in conjunction with any other offers Established 1990 Director: M Potter LANDSCAPING - Drives, Patios, Pathways, BUILDING WORKS - Extensions, Porches, Brick/Stone Walls, Block/Stone Paving, Conservatories, Garages, Groundworks, Tarmac, Decking, Fencing etc Roofing, PVC Windows, Doors, Soffits etc

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Oven Cleaning Painters & Decorators Plastering Plumbing & Heating Ovenmeister UK We are an oven cleaning company based in Maidstone Kent. Established in 2005 we have over 15 years experience in No call Plumbing maintenance out charge cleaning your ovens. New bathroom suites Book with us 24/7 — Free quotations Free no Central heating systems obligation Water leak repairs Call us on: 01622 720713 or 07763 061774 Quotation Alternatively drop us an email: [email protected] Call Luke on 07934 832345 Roofing Services Allington Roofing EST 1979 Fascias, Soffits & Guering • Roof Cleaning • Moss Removal • Flat Roofs • Roof Repairs • re-tiling • chimney work • lead work Free Estimates 01622 861564 07889255813 info@allingtonroofing.co.uk www.allingtonroofing.co.uk

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40 downsmail.co.uk News Granville Garage 01622 761571 Waste Service Continued Granville Road, Maidstone www.granvillegarage.com MOT Testing - On the Road OnGeneral the Vehicle Road Repairs

SILVERBACK RECOVERY Car recovery and transportation Ltd Light commercial With more than 30 years' experience in the Cars for scrap removed motor industry, Barming Motor Co is an Competitive rates independently“At your run used service”car specialists based Cherryon Hartnup Tree Business Street, Estate, Plough Maidstone. Wents Road, CALL ROGERWindow ON: Services Chart Sutton, Maidstone, ME17 3RY 01622 813733 07740 123495 All servicing work undertaken, diagnostics, barmingmotorcompany.co.ukmechanical and bodywork repairs, MOT preparation and winter checks. [email protected] have been servicing, repairing, and restoring BMWs for ACE overTel: 30 01622 years, our 728712 staff have orover 07864 50 years combined393785 experience, and all have more than 25 years of working downsmail.co.ukM.O.T. and Clutch Centre with BMWs behind them. Classified Vehicle Maintenance, Service & M.O.T. Car’s & Commercial vehicles HealthOpen Mon –& Fri 8:00 &Beauty - 5:30 Beauty Sat 9:00 – 12:00 PublicOver 25 vehicles Notices in stock M.O.T. only Sun 9:00 – 12:00 Wide range of vehicles • Cam belt kits supplied & fitted LicensingServicing Act 2003 & AnMOT’s application has been made by: Mr Jamie Cook and Mrs STEPHEN• Broken GR AbeltY damagedeisue repaired Mandy Cook for the premises of: MEPA Studios, Unit B Rocky Hill, London Road, BSc Hons HCPC Registered Competitive Rate • All makes, petrol & diesel Maidstone, Kent ME16 8HS On the date of: 26th January 2021. Summary of the Bearsted Chiropody & proposedFinance licensableWe available specialise activities and in theClassic proposed BMWs hours of of opening: ALL ages Sale of Alcohol Podiatry Practice 736 London Road, Larkfield, Kent ME20 6BG 10:00 to midnight, Regulated Entertainment 11:00 to midnight and Late Night 111 Madginford Road Bearsted Refreshments 23:00 to Midnight. Any person wishing to view details of an application mayBMW contact the Licensing & BMW Partnership onMini 01732 227004. Specialist Any person wishing to make 01622Tel: 630 39301732 870368 representation about the application should make them in writing on or before the: Home visits and evening and 23rd February 2021 to: Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP weekend appointments available [email protected] http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary of Maidstone Mobile Ear Syringing conviction for the offence is £5000. Ear syringing in the comfort of your home, all Kent County Council appointments are carried out by fully quali ed, insured Report of Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman Autospray The Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman has issued a report following its andSOLUTIONS DBS checked nurses investigation of a complaint against Kent County Council. The complaint was about Education & Children's Services. The Ombudsman found that there had been fault on the part of the Council, and this had caused injustice to the complainant. The Council must now consider the report and tell the Ombudsman within three months (or such longer period as the Ombudsman may agree) what it proposes to do. Copies of the report will be available for members of the public by calling the Council Call now on: 07837408864 Email: [email protected] on 03000 414141 during normal office hours for the next three weeks or by visiting Recuitent maidstoneearsyringing www.lgo.org.uk. Copies will be supplied free of charge.

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43 downsmail.co.uk Comment Farmers keen to grow houses r WHAT would many farmers in our political or unfair, during an awful still wonderful Garden of England like virus year no one envisaged when he most to crop: fruit, corn, vegetables, MailMarks won an overwhelming General Election animals – or houses? Sadly, many would victory. go for cement, bricks and mortar. DENNIS FOWLE President Now he has four years, at least, to I studied more than 300 landowner [email protected] lead us to a new and more successful offers to Maidstone Borough Council in place in what seems a big waiting its call for development sites to meet world. He needed our support and ever-increasing Government demands loyal patience to achieve the many developed with 400-plus houses for housing. stages of Brexit. He needs it again from following a successful appeal by the I was amazed and depressed by the so many to create a more powerful and developer, what is sacred? huge number of farms, many of them prosperous nation. Exciting times. Does our farmland not now become an large, among offers. It seems these even-more valued national asset with owners and families now prefer to turn Brexit achieved? We import much A real Pippin away from their farming lives and farming produce from the EU, and in the a SO OFTEN I despair about the capitalise on high development land next few years it may be more secure bullet- hard and rather tasteless apples values to protect their futures. These are and cost-effective for this to be home sold in supermarkets, even though their decisions not made lightly. produced. colours attract. The council must have been surprised Now I rejoice in the true English Cox by offers which could have King Street kings Orange Pippin, which is best between accommodated about 60,000 more late autumn up to spring. It is a much houses in Maidstone – but at this stage a MOTORISTS are the kings of King softer, tastier apple, usually with a very probably needs about 10,000 of them. Street, Maidstone. The unconsulted rosy glow. Not all Cox apples are the And many of these will be in centre or pop-up cycle paths nanced with same variety, so beware! urban Maidstone, where required Government money and speedily Sadly, they are not widely stocked, services already exist. actioned by county and borough but I have found the farm shop at But markers have now been put down, council officers caused immense Teston where they grow their own. The and with Government determined to problems and huge public complaints. magnicent taste takes me back to my “build, build, build” it may not be too KCC Highways say they must now be youth and childhood. long before the council will be forced to removed – a massive defeat for the anti- allocate more big residential sites. This car lobby. Questions about all the Post haste wasted costs are being asked. will be more pressing if the proposed WARNED about possible Royal Mail r two garden villages at Lenham Heath delays, I posted my main batch of and Lidsing do not progress. Exciting times Christmas cards two weeks before At this stage, the council is largely not a I JOIN the excitement (not Christmas at Barming Post Office box. accepting many new offers of substantial unanimous!) across Maidstone, Malling, On January 7, I received a call from a farmland around its selected growth Kent and the nation of the hard-fought Maidstone friend to thank me for the villages of Marden, Staplehurst, agreement with the European Union card, with a cheque enclosed, which Headcorn, Lenham and Harrietsham. after we voted time and again for Brexit. had just arrived. So, it took the best part Their current growth is already assured. There have been tough, frustrating, of a month. But the offers are now in place… annoying times, but now the job has At home, we received no post from Among 300 offers are many unlikely been done and Britain has regained its December 21 until December 29, when ever to make it. Some are highly-valued full sovereignty and takes back control 10 Christmas cards arrived, with others and protected sites – others would create of our money, laws, borders and seas. following even later. I tried to get a major problems and local chaos. But if Prime Minister Boris Johnson has comment from Royal Mail press office – Church Lane, Otham, will now be suffered plenty of knocks, mostly highly but that was as dead as its service.

More traffic in Otham Kent Highways regarding safety and who fought so hard to secure the planning traffic congestion were very important. refusals for these applications are, like REFERENCE the article about the Otham Kent Highways are the experts and have a myself, devastated that the inspector Bellway Homes appeal decision published great deal of local knowledge, so it is granted permission while acknowledging in the Downs Mail. somewhat surprising that the inspector the additional congestion it would create, In our view, the inspector’s decision will chose to take a different view. but refuting that the congestion would be now generate even more traffic congestion It would appear that greater weight has sufficient to create a safety hazard. on what everyone knows is an already been put on the old shibboleth of ‘modal This is despite the statutory highway congested road. This is not the way to shift’ as the answer to all our problems. authority (KCC) stating very clearly that resolve Maidstone’s ever-worsening traffic Cllr John Perry, leader of the Conservative Bellway’s proposals represented a serious situation. Even worse, is the likely effect on Group on Maidstone Borough Council safety concern, especially due to the nature the rural roads in the area where it would of Church Road. appear that genuine safety concerns Review must be public I therefore welcome the fact that MBC expressed by residents have been ignored. has requested a report from an Once again, it seems that the views of IT WAS reassuring to see some co- independent legal source to evaluate their residents and their elected representatives operative and cross-party thinking from prospects for pursuing a successful judicial have been overridden. Elected members the members of MBC’s policy and review of the inspector’s decision based of Maidstone Borough Council met three resources committee following Gordon upon irrational reasoning given to justify times to discuss this matter and each time Newton raising the issue of the inspector’s his decision and, let’s face it, it was came to the same decision that the decision on the Bellway Church Road, incredibly irrational! application should be refused. The council Otham, planning application. What I nd disappointing is the considered that the concerns expressed by There is no doubt that local residents suggestion that these councillors will hold 44 downsmail.co.uk this review in private with reports on Farewell to democracy Upon the facts, one is led to the Comment yellow papers and therefore marked inescapable conclusion that the grouping private and condential, and not for the THE day Bellway Homes was given of officers and leading members who eyes of those local residents. permission to go ahead with its constitute Maidstone Borough Council are Surely this is a case where transparency development at Church Road, we kissed failing in their primary and fundamental and the level of public interest is such that goodbye to democracy in this borough. task of representing the current residents. I’ve said this before, but I will say it it would be completely morally wrong to Sadly, these factions among councillors again. This council is not run by the do anything other than conduct the review who in the past failed us, from which we Liberal Democrats, the Labour Party and a in a manner that is open to residents? Only are now reaping the result, have brought few independents – for they have then can residents be condent in insufferable consequences for the future. struggled with the task and have looked decisions taken. Accordingly, there should be an increasingly irrelevant – but by the There also needs to be a further review immediate referral for a full inquiry to the unelected officers at Maidstone Borough audit, governance and standards that looks both at the role that MBC Council. They’re not meant to, of course, officers played in the development of Committee. At that meeting, the but they do. committee should consider whether this Bellway’s proposals and in the conduct of It is meant to be us, the elected matter can be the subject of a judicial the defence at the appeal hearing. representatives of your readers, the people review into the decision of the appeal. If The suggestion is that officers may have who vote us in to look after their interests. so, it should instruct new counsel to gone beyond their statutory duty to assist Yet over time, the inuence has shifted advise before this matter passes the period the applicants and became effectively almost entirely away from the elected in which a review can be called for. vested in the detail of the application members to those paid to implement the Whilst I appreciate there will be costs, it whereby they became almost decisions of the councillors. is money that has to be spent to undo the indistinguishable from the applicants With the Otham development, the harm resulting from the recent appeal themselves. I hope not. planning officers pushed and pushed for decision and ensure that similar mistakes It may well be that a review would nd the Bellway proposals for 421 houses to be are not made in the future. that everything was done within existing granted. We, the elected representatives, David Hatcher, Chapman Avenue Area rules. If that is so, we will know that the said no – three times. The officers did not Residents’ Association rules need changing! reect on the views and opinions of the Cllr Gary Cooke, Kent County Councillor elected members, but seemed to be in for Maidstone South East favour of the Bellway proposal, no matter what. Plans for Heather House Homes will add to chaos Perhaps this was best illustrated by your REFERENCE the ongoing attempts to REFERENCE the Otham housing appeal. newspaper just a few months ago, when it modernise Heather House in Park Wood. When I stood for election, I said I’d try to The other day, the bottom of Mallards revealed the staggering number of emails between planning officers and Bellway nd a sustainable future for Heather Way was closed due to ooding – when Homes. As my les record, some 2,524 House as a well-loved community centre. isn’t it? I live in Downswood and had to emails were exchanged between the MBC Early on, Heather House was due for go on to Willington Street to get to the officials and Bellway Homes between immediate closure because of its poor dentist at Roseacre. This took me nearly 45 March 2018 and July 2020. What on earth state. Alongside the local residents’ minutes because the M20 was closed due did they have to say to one another? association, we garnered 800 signatures to a crash and the A20 was a mess. No one is claiming there is anything and got a stay of execution. From the dentist, I needed to go to town untoward or corrupt, but it suggests a Repairs were too expensive (£750,000 (my mother lives there) so I went up level of familiarity between the planning plus) so we looked at a bigger Roseacre Lane to go down Ware Street. authority and the developer which might redevelopment, including some housing This was closed because of the ooding be perceived negatively. Perhaps, it is on the site of the pavilion, to fund it. under the railway bridge. It doesn’t take a perfectly normal. I don’t know. What I do I have always been aware sports clubs lot to make this area grind to a halt. know is that when I try to get a straight use the pavilion for changing facilities and With the proposed 440 houses up answer from our officers, it is rarely storage, to use the playing elds. Church Road near me, this will be nearly speedy or illuminating. So, we sought to include changing an extra 1,000 cars coming down there on I do not like or agree with the inspector’s facilities and storage in our plans. to Deringwood Drive, then onto either conclusions in nding for Bellway. But I What I wasn’t aware of, until late Willington Street or Mallards/Spot Lane, mourn the passing of democracy. October, were two things: the sports clubs, Ashord Road, either Roseacre Lane or the Eddie Powell, borough councillor for in particular Weavering Warriors, were Landway, then on to Ware Street. Shepway South using the building far more extensively Everyone will be affected, as these people than for changing and storage and had will be trying to get to the M20. Then you We need an inquiry taken on the lease themselves. have the return journeys, also. REFERENCE the planning appeal decision As soon as I became aware of this, a The Langley housing has already ruined over homes at Church Road, Otham. meeting was arranged through the county the quality of Downswood and More than 2,000 residents and road councillor, Gary Cooke, with surrounding areas, and it is not even users in Maidstone petitioned MBC with representatives from the sports clubs at nished yet. regard to the recommendation of the the pavilion. At this meeting, it was made This really is a joke. Anyone involved in planning officer to approve the plan by perfectly clear that the facilities proposed the approval of this should be named and Bellway Homes Ltd to build 421 houses at the “New Heather House” would not shamed – I bet they do not live here! and ats on land adjacent to the grade ll be sufficient for the clubs and Park Run to Has no one taken into account the smell listed Church of Saint Nicholas, Otham. continue operating. of diesel at the bottom of Spot Lane? The Councillors voted on three separate A second meeting was arranged with amount of sewage (which was occasions to refuse the application. the clubs and Park Run, this time with the investigated) and pollution of all kinds The issue went to a planning inquiry. council officer managing the project that will affect the area? I wrote to these On January 7 the inspector, Stephen proposals and the architects. We took people objecting to it and it was a done Normington, allowed the appeal. The down a full list of requirements from the deal, as we know. This must be publicised overall reasons for his decision have much clubs and the officers, and architects went as it is the rape of our countryside! It is to do with the original decision by away to redraw the proposals. I circulated absolutely shocking. members in 2015 to include this site in the these revised proposals before Christmas, Carl Mayne-Wheeler, via email Local Plan. asking for feedback.

45 downsmail.co.uk

Initially, I heard nothing back in writing, this campaign – let’s not sit idly by. wasted in making all the unconsulted Comment but had not wanted to go into the meeting Robert Beney, Bearsted changes for a pop-up cycle lane, to endorse/refuse the new proposals (those seemingly little required by cyclists? referred to in the Downs Mail article) Now there is the immense cost of without their feedback. Why is force so inept? removing these crass, chaotic changes. I spoke with a representative from IT HAS become apparent that your KCC and Maidstone council officers Weavering Warriors on the day of the newspaper has become (rightly) rather were not removing problems – they were council meeting. Without wanting to put critical of Kent Police, not only in your creating them. words into anyone’s mouth, he conrmed articles but in your comment pieces, too. I believe it has little or nothing to do that, whilst there would be a need for a Evidently, your readers do not feel as if with protecting us from COVID-19. It has bar facility on top of the proposals, they the force takes their concerns about the feeling of the anti-car lobby seizing a otherwise sounded like they would work. burglaries, criminal damage etc at all Government-nanced opportunity to grab Some councillors had reservations about seriously. No one shares those frustrations their chance in King Street and Earl Street the extra cost of the additional facilities as much as I. without consulting us. being proposed to accommodate the But as your recent editorial stated – There are many road improvements sports clubs. This lead to a debate in which don’t blame the frontline officers, they needed around Maidstone. King Street is I made the case that this was not, as it may only go where they are sent. The senior not one of them. have seemed to those councillors, a “take- management of Kent Police and the Kent Michael Davis, Maidstone over” of the project by the clubs. Police and Crime Commissioner are Rather, this was an expansion of the responsible. And the commissioner does already agreed earlier proposals to build a crow quite a lot about there never having Driven away from BBC new community centre, with the inclusion been as many police in Kent as today. SHOULD we expect a senior presenter on of facilities that would enable the clubs to If so, why is the service so inept at our local BBC TV news to rant and shout continue operating here. All the way protecting and serving us? at an MP invited to the programme? along, these proposals have received M Gibson, via email I have tried to be faithful to the BBC, but unanimous support from councillors arrogance, political bias and more have across all party lines and there was no nally driven me away. There are now exception for the revised proposals with Pro-life care for homeless good alternatives. the additional facilities. Mary Love, via email I REALISE that the Downs Mail regularly When it became apparent that the earlier proposal did not meet the needs of sports supports the hospice movement. It is my clubs and their members operating out of hope that this letter is printed thereby Brexit effect still to be felt the pavilion, we revised the plans, in fullling a democratic voice. consultation with them. My concern is the article “Palliative care ALTHOUGH an ardent remain voter, I These revised plans have been endorsed for the sick”, within the context of would never for one moment suggest that at this stage and now we need to close a Maidstone’s homeless problems (Downs I am in any way intellectually superior to fairly sizeable gap in funding to meet the Mail 288). those who voted to leave. needs of users. On end of life “pathways”, the patient Unfortunately, the remain side did not As with everything I do, I am will die unless relatives ght otherwise. make the case for why we, as a leading accountable to the people of Park Wood I’m disturbed that the homeless are European power with a history tied into the fortunes of our European neighbours, and would welcome any further offered this, proving this approach to be should continue to play a role in setting contributions to these proposals. It’s worth an unnatural death. It concerns me the the agenda and furthering our common noting that whilst the revised proposals vulnerable don’t have authorities to interests and goals. have been endorsed by councillors, there protect them, made worse now from the It was after all, the UK that created the is no immediate start date for the physical Coronavirus Act prohibiting relatives single market which the government has work to begin, nor has any nal decision access to patients. now taken us out of. I do though query yet been taken to go ahead. I’m part of a network set up by a retired some of Brian Gough’s points (Letters, Anyone can contact me on this, or any Kent doctor which opposes end of life January 14). issue: [email protected]. If I pathways, dehydrationlifeline.org. As a sovereign nation, we already had have misrepresented or misunderstood I’ve personally seen the homeless only control of our own destiny – that we were the views of residents in this process up to asking for food, drink, warmth and able to call a referendum on our EU now, I will of course do what I can to shelter. Of course, they’ll be in a bad state membership proves the point. address that as the project moves forward, when brought indoors. Perhaps a more Secondly, Mr Gough cites control of our but have acted honestly and with good pro-life approach should be taken before borders as reason to leave the EU. This is a intention at every stage of this process. offering them an unnatural end of life? reasonable point. However, according to Cllr Matt Burton, Maidstone Borough Catherine Ashenfelter, Langley the latest data, in 2019, the last full year of Council our EU membership, 1,844 migrants

Vaccinations so efficient crossed the channel illegally. In 2020, at least 8,400 made the some journey. Some Relief road now vital I WAS impressed with the co-operative control of our borders. AS EVERY month passes, more planning effort at Headcorn GP surgery to ensure It is in all our interests (including the is approved but, at the same time, there we are vaccinated quickly and safely. 48% of us who voted to remain – not are no infrastructure plans to alleviate the It was so busy, but the ow from exactly a decisive vote) to make Brexit additional traffic. parking, vaccination and resting was so work. My children will have to live with Has not the time come to make a smooth, thanks to the cheerful the consequences if we do not. concerted joint approach to get the Leeds- professionals and volunteers. Another big But at a time when the future of the UK Langley relief road into the plan? tick for our NHS. itself is in doubt, given strong Scottish Very soon we will have the same Jenny Lawrence, Maidstone feelings about Brexit and the Westminster gridlock along Langley/Leeds as we have government, forgive me but I won’t be on Sutton Road and Willington Street. gently smiling if we as a nation break up. Let’s face it, we have a ready-made Cycle lane money wasted The consequences of our departure are junction 8 for the traffic, so it cannot be I HAVE never considered King Street, yet to be fully appreciated and felt. Mr beyond the wit of man. Maidstone, a serious problem in traffic Gough might want to think about that. Downs Mail could become the driver of terms. So why has so much money been Chris Cassley, Boughton Monchelsea 46 downsmail.co.uk Opinion Vaccines a light at the end of tunnel T IS with not inconsiderable sadness I Ilearn the romance is over between THE best way to beat this virus, once and for Maidstone’s Jo Marney (28) and the all, is through the widespread vaccination of former Ukip leader Henry Bolton (57). By Helen Love blossomed over turkey and stuffing our population. at a 2017 Ukip Christmas bash, two I am hugely encouraged by the speed at Grant months after he was appointed. But after which the vaccine is being rolled out across MP for a slew of difficult headlines, former Maidstone and The Weald; providing hope to Maidstone & the soldier Mr Bolton was dumped by the our community after such a difficult year. party. These days, Mr Bolton consoles I pay tribute to the fantastic GPs who are Weald himself with a role with the seedling leading these efforts at vaccination sites across Great Britain TV station which airs our patch. Many are working every hour of “comment on topics given insufficient the day and it is thanks to their dedication that I am delighted to hear that Dr Hinsley is attention by the mainstream media”. A the vast majority of my constituents aged over condent they will reach all of those in the recent piece to camera attracted 93 80, and many over 75s, have already received highest priority groups within the next couple viewers. their rst dose of the vaccine. of weeks. S Philip Larkin had many ways of Indeed, the Primary Care Networks (PCNs) Maidstone Hospital has also made in our area are on target to ensure everyone Areferring to death without using the extraordinary progress with its vaccination word, Maidstone Borough Council's over 70, or who is extremely clinically programme. Efforts have been focused mostly vulnerable, will be offered a vaccine by the official papers offer a cheerless on frontline NHS and social care euphemistic menu for job cuts. These middle of February. professionals, and in mid-January they pearls include “taking advantage of As with any programme of this size, there delivered their 10,000th jab; a remarkable synergies”; “a rationalisation of have been some teething problems. achievement. management roles”; “identifying There was, for example, something of a slow This week, a pharmacy vaccination site will efficiencies”; “rationalisation of staffing start to vaccinations in The Weald, a serious open in central Maidstone and, from next arrangements” and, best of all, “regular challenge on which I have worked closely week, a mass vaccination centre will go live at service design reviews “. with my colleague Greg Clark MP to correct. The Angel Centre in Tonbridge. To that end, Dr Faye Hinsley and her team Appointments can be made via the national AM always keen to tap into the from the Ridge PCN have stepped up to the vaccine booking service by people who have Ipolitical leaders’ cultural plate brilliantly, and vaccinations are now received a letter inviting them to do so. predilections. Facebook gives some being delivered with real pace at Headcorn Doubtless there are difficult weeks ahead clues. Labour’s Malcolm McKay favours Aerodrome – so much so, that numbers in The but, thanks to the efficiency of the vaccine’s Al Green and David Bowie, while right- Weald have now moved ahead of some other deployment, there is now a brightening light winger Eddie Powell nods to Queen and parts of Kent. at the end of the tunnel. Ben E King. Liberal Democrat council leader Martin Cox swings his pants to Neil Diamond and Bruce Springsteen. What of opposition Tory leader, John A victory for common sense Perry? He appears to prefer ne English wine and poetry, of course. PARKWOOD Theatres were delighted when HEAR my old chum, the top barrister Maidstone Borough Council's (MBC) Economic, IOliver Kirk, is moving to Yalding. He Regeneration and Leisure Committee, chaired by By Tony Doherty tells me: “I am assured it’s in an elevated Cllr Paul Harper, endorsed the continuation of Managing Director, position and not prone to ooding.” That’ll be an ark, then. the successful partnership at The Hazlitt Arts Parkwood Theatres Centre between Parkwood and MBC. AIDSTONE’S distinguished Parkwood, our Hazlitt staff, and a large num- Mbarrister Keith Yardy lists his ber of Maidstone citizens were dismayed at the memberships as The South Eastern regulars, but hopefully an even wider base of end of 2020 when the committee settled on an Circuit, Kent Bar Mess, Kent Wildlife Maidstone's community. The Hazlitt is for all. alternative course. Trust, the Wild Trout Trust, Kent Reptile There’s nothing like a live show, a shared ex- However, it is to the credit of councillors that and Amphibian Group and, intriguingly, perience, where you can leave the sofa and they listened to the public, re-evaluated Park- the Pagan Federation. The latter, I learn, square boxes and screens at home. wood's stewardship of the Hazlitt and realised seeks to “support all Pagans to ensure Why not unleash that inner creativity and give that the economic and social benefits of a thriv- they have the same rights as the one of our regular workshops a go? The Hazlitt followers of other beliefs and religions”. ing theatre post COVID-19, outweighed any already does loads for kids, but adults need an short-term savings. outlet too, and The Hazlitt can provide it. IXED metaphor time. Kent’s public We’re going to need a heavy dose of creative Hazlitt staff are looking forward to getting Mhealth director, Andrew Scott-Clark, and mental stimulation, fun and social interac- back to reboot the shows, and to run our classes said of COVID-19 the other day: “We are tion once the pandemic starts to ease off. that have grown since Parkwood came on board. not out of the woods by any means, but it The Hazlitt offers that in abundance – it is a We are grateful to all supporters of The Hazlitt does feel like the green shoots are there.” true community arts centre. It was notable as who stood up and made their voices heard, in- POTTED: Tory MP Tom Tugendhat the council committees discussed the Hazlitt cluding the Downs Mail, and MP Helen Grant. Sslurping tea on TV from a mug how many members shared fond tales of their In his time, William Hazlitt, after whom the bearing an image of the lefties’ leftie, own family involvement over the years. theatre is named, had quite a bit to say about Che Guevara. As soon as we are allowed, we will open the the virtues of common sense. It appears his spirit Hazlitt doors and welcome back, not only Hazlitt lives on in Maidstone folk. Chin chin!

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