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Maidstone East Edition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper Malling Edition FREEdownsmail.co.uk Maidstone & Malling’s October 2017 No.No. 246 1 newspaper

NewsFREE MarchPanto 2020 ahoy! Kate,No. 107,275 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 hasNews died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. Communities rallying David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were Chocks and chocs national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy Godmother),to help former those EastEnder Ste- at risk AMP’s LARKFIELD Local Helicopter Plan bidClub fanSCHOOLS Booth (Prince have Charming), closed, the Eliza- curtains have come takesHELEN off Whately on social asked media, the with a bethdown on Bright performances (Cinderella), and major Craig sports events have bitgovernment of fun and to chocolatehalt the Andersonbeen cancelled (Buttons) as the and, government pictured, ramped up its ad- biscuits.borough’s housing scheme. à43 Stephenvice to the Richards public on and the Adam threats Bor- of Coronavirus. zoneWith (Ugly 14 Sisters) COVID-19 . cases confirmed in Kent, Brothers’ project communitiesThey were greeted have by come pupils together from to help the Plans for Dr Nigel South Borough Primary School and TWO brothers have set up a web- elderly and those who are most vulnerable THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto site to help learner drivers to infection. à6 will walk the Grand runs from December 1-31. For tick- find driving instructors. à4 Canyon for charity. 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. Tribute to war hero HALLINGJason Donovanwar hero Thomas date Har- risTHE to former be commemorated Neighbours star withbrings a ‘Abuse’ claims over bluehis show plaque to the at Hazlitt his former 18 CCTV call in a bid home.Theatre next May. à8 More buddies please forest school plans LARKFIELD Community Group’s popular ‘Buddy’ scheme has toA CONTROVERSIAL stop plan to fly-tipping turn an old house in West Malling into a become a victim of its own forest school for disabled children has sparked a backlash from residents. success. à19 CALLSTrinity School for the and installation College in of CCTV cameras to preventharmful fly-tipping to anyone. If on anything, a Obituaries à24 countryRochester wants road to havecreate a been place made by the local boroughyou’d councillor. think people would be for their students to enjoy outdoor happy that the building would be Parishes à26-27 learningBurberry at Lane, Bramble near Leeds Park, and in nearby, more than a year after it unlicensedused for somethingwaste carriers, wonderful, but be- Broomfield,Church Lane. has been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. lievesrather the than cost another to small housing firms of estate. dis- BIRLING parish council are look- wasteBut dumpers the headteacher for years, Elizabeth but in re- The church car park has also seen posing“I can’t of constructionhelp but think waste this is at be- a Obituariesing to commemorate the Spitfire 32 centBaines months, (pictured) the problem claims she has has be- many instances of illegal dumping. transfercause the station children is proving are disabled. a deter- crash site for VE Day; a race night comesuffered more “abusive” acute. messages from But it is a problem in many rural rentThere that are is complaints costing councils about more. noise, isParish being considered Councils by Offham34-35 Construction waste, rubble, hard areas including Langley, Otham Cllr Fort made her remarks as local people who do not want the but there is a local primary school ASHparish dieback council; has Trosley been discovered Heritage in core,school windows to be sited and there. household fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in onenearby, of the what borough’s is the difference?” closest trans- Group has exchanged contracts niture is left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in Detling; Trinity was described by Ofsted One Green Lane resident said on the Plough Inn, Trottiscliffe. in the middle of the road. also been targeted recently. bridge Wells, announced it will be Hollingbourne village fete stall- as an “improving school” with any noise during playtime would Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month Last year, Maidstone Borough closed for 10 weeks. holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has skilled staff “experienced at identi- be “extremely noticeable and dis- resigned;Crime yellowReports lines are neededà27 we are having toilets, sinks and Council cleared 911 cases of fly-tip- She added: “If you go along the fying and de-escalating serious for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 lineturbing of increasing for residents”. fines, they have to A FORD Transit van was stolen problems before they arise”. buses through Imperial Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. beOpponents enforced. A also reduction say the in village the from car park in Aylesford; a log- Teaching assistant and West of positive feedback. bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings chargelayout oris “ill-prepared” offering it free to may deal have with splitting machine was stolen from Malling resident Tina Leggatt said: “Now, everything has suddenly Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. themore desired traffic, similar as the effect.” roads are too a driveway in West Malling. “When we first announced we turned negative. Adults shouldn’t the picnic area and rear exit. land, to oversee the problem area.” Cllr Fort welcomed a joint initia- narrowA three-monthly and “poorly litter maintained”. pick on the wanted to create a forest school at be behaving like this; we are not a à A recent event in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency mile-longHowever, stretch supporters of road through of the Comment 34-35 threat and what we are doing is not Crime Reports 35 sawBramble a caravan Park, we burned received out whilea wave a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Leedsscheme village say if producesthe application an average is un- torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32successful, black sacks the of site rubbish. will “be demol- VEHICLES have been driven over ishedCllr by Fort, housing who alsodevelopers”. serves as a farmland in Lenham, causing parishMrs Baines councillor, said: says“We have teaching been damge to crops; an attempted childrencompletely about transparent social responsibility and honest break-in was reported in Detling; a andduring the issue this of process. litter in Weschools have will re- vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted helpceived take some the issuequite offabusive the streets. emails Rd,Inside Weavering this edition:; pumpkins were Sheand believes letters with since every the applicationhousehold stolenTHE borough from council an allotment is set to ap- in Lenham. YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivingwas submitted. a weekly I’m refuse just very collection disap- prove increases to West Malling service,pointed. there Traffic is no is excuse a problem for litter ev- parking charges, including resi- [email protected] being thrown from vehicles or Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent erywhere in Kent, so I do not dents’ permits. dumpedunderstand in the what road. is different here.” Home Alarms supplied and fitted visitvisit www.amiga.co.ukwww.amiga.co.uk oror callcall 0800008000 199622 News downsmail.co.uk Check it out Concerns as insects now, readers THE recent spread of the coron- avirus has led to some cancellation of events in all our publication fail to make a splat areas. INSECT life in Kent is showing a In this edition, we have taken massive decline and it has conser- every effort to ensure that diary vationists worried. dates have been checked as far as While some might welcome possible before the edition went to fewer bugs, especially in the sum- press. However, with the fast-mov- mer months, wildlife experts warn ing nature of events surrounding of catastrophic consequences. the the COVID-19 virus, we cannot Insects comprise a huge part of be sure that all events as published the lower end of the food chain here are accurate. upon which other supporting Therefore we would strongly species depend and are responsi- urge all readers to check with the ble for pollinating many foods. organisers first. Entire eco-systems are in danger fewer bugs. Fly-fishing clubs, have countryside we can help stop the de- of collapse, say experts. been warning of steep declines in cline.” Maidstone-based Kent Wildlife the number of ephemerids, such as Conservationist Theo McCausland VE day picnic Trust used the ‘splatometer’ method the mayfly, for decades. said: “When you build houses and of recording the number of insects, Agricultural chemicals, water ex- habitats are gone, they're gone for- at cricket club by counting the number of ‘splats’ traction, wash-off from roads and ever. KINGS Hill Cricket Club is hosting left on a number plate. motorways and climate shifts are all “And when you see beehives a VE Day celebration. Last year, people were asked to thought to feed into the causes of being shipped in to pollinate the “Picnic on the pitch” will take record the number of insects fewer hatches of water-borne fly. apple orchards around here, you place from 1pm to 10pm on Friday, squashed against their number The trust reports: “The Wildlife know there's a problem. May 8, to mark the 75th anniver- plates and this was compared to a Trusts around the UK are calling for “But it’s not always terminal, be- sary of VE Day – bring your picnic similar survey conducted in 2004 by action to reverse the decline. cause insects can regenerate quickly. blanket, gazebo and your bunting. the Royal Society for the Protection “By reducing our use of pesticides If everyone sets aside a bit of garden The club will have lots of activi- of Birds (RSPB). and creating more insect-friendly to grow wild, for instance, we can ties going on to keep everyone oc- This showed there were 50% habitats in towns, cities and the all make a difference.” cupied. Everyone is welcome.

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2 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Check it out Three injured THREE women were injured in a Concerns as insects ‘Copter club’ just a bit hit-and-run in West Malling. now, readers Kent Police were called at THE recent spread of the coron- 4.07pm on March 11 to reports that avirus has led to some cancellation a black Ford Fiesta had failed to of events in all our publication of fun, says founder stop after hitting the women on a fail to make a splat areas. pedestrian crossing in the High LITTERED with double enten- INSECT life in Kent is showing a In this edition, we have taken Street. The car was found aban- dres and saucy innuendo, it’s far massive decline and it has conser- every effort to ensure that diary doned in Twisden Road, East from the most politically correct vationists worried. dates have been checked as far as page you’ll ever see on Facebook. Malling, at around 9.45pm. While some might welcome possible before the edition went to Roy Smith, One woman was taken to a Lon- press. However, with the fast-mov- Nevertheless, it has rapidly es- fewer bugs, especially in the sum- founder of don hospital with serious injuries. ing nature of events surrounding tablished a loyal following and a mer months, wildlife experts warn the Larkfield Another was taken to a local hos- the the COVID-19 virus, we cannot unique niche for itself among pages of catastrophic consequences. that entertain, on social media. and pital and the third was treated at Insects comprise a huge part of be sure that all events as published It is the Larkfield and Leybourne Leybourne the scene. Anyone with informa- the lower end of the food chain here are accurate. Helicopter Curiosity Club. Helicopter tion should call Kent Police on upon which other supporting Therefore we would strongly 01622 604 100, quoting reference urge all readers to check with the Created just six months ago, it Curiosity species depend and are responsi- has hasover 60 followers within a 11-0947, or contact Crimestoppers organisers first. Club ble for pollinating many foods. few hours of creation. anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at Entire eco-systems are in danger fewer bugs. Fly-fishing clubs, have countryside we can help stop the de- It is irreverent, laughingly politi- ager for Cinnamon Care Collection. Just a bit of fun which has been well www.crimestoppers-uk.org. of collapse, say experts. been warning of steep declines in cline.” VE day picnic cally incorrect, light-hearted in He’s not a helicopter pilot. Or heli- received.” See Malling Mail, page 23 Maidstone-based Kent Wildlife the number of ephemerids, such as Conservationist Theo McCausland every sense of the word, chock copter engineer. Not even a heli- So well, in fact, it’s almost sur- Trust used the ‘splatometer’ method the mayfly, for decades. said: “When you build houses and (pardon the pun) full of ambivalent copter commuter. In fact, he’s never prising the Facebook algorithms of recording the number of insects, Agricultural chemicals, water ex- habitats are gone, they're gone for- at cricket club comments and tongue-in-cheek set foot in a helicopter. haven’t closed the page down. But by counting the number of ‘splats’ traction, wash-off from roads and ever. KINGS Hill Cricket Club is hosting witticisms, and, perhaps surpris- The page has grown to almost it’s doubtful they fully understand Charity quiz left on a number plate. motorways and climate shifts are all “And when you see beehives a VE Day celebration. ingly, has more female members 500 members and is a “fun and the ambivalent meanings of the A QUIZ night is being held to raise Last year, people were asked to thought to feed into the causes of being shipped in to pollinate the “Picnic on the pitch” will take than male. light-hearted group” said Roy. term “chopper”. money for the Royal Society for record the number of insects fewer hatches of water-borne fly. apple orchards around here, you place from 1pm to 10pm on Friday, The whimsical brainwave of Roy Random polls, quizzes and Let’s leave the final word to a Blind Children. squashed against their number The trust reports: “The Wildlife know there's a problem. May 8, to mark the 75th anniver- Smith, it started as a tongue-in- monthly awards featuring choco- young female member of the The event will take place on Fri- plates and this was compared to a Trusts around the UK are calling for “But it’s not always terminal, be- sary of VE Day – bring your picnic cheek response to people on com- late biscuits as “Oscars” are fiercely group: “I’ve got a day off tomor- day, March 27 at Ham Hill Work- similar survey conducted in 2004 by action to reverse the decline. cause insects can regenerate quickly. blanket, gazebo and your bunting. munity group pages asking why a contested. row. Got to do homework. What’s ing Men’s Club at 7pm. Tickets the Royal Society for the Protection “By reducing our use of pesticides If everyone sets aside a bit of garden The club will have lots of activi- helicopter was circling overhead. Roy said: “There’s nothing to do the betting there are no choppers cost £5 per person with a maxi- of Birds (RSPB). and creating more insect-friendly to grow wild, for instance, we can ties going on to keep everyone oc- Roy is a care and quality man- with any sales, profit or promotion. around to distract me?” mum of eight per team. This showed there were 50% habitats in towns, cities and the all make a difference.” cupied. Everyone is welcome.

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Malling March 2020 3 News downsmail.co.uk Warning after vehicle crimes Brothers’ website helps MOTORISTS are reminded to look out for suspicious activity following a number of car crimes get learners on the road in Kings Hill. Nine catalytic converter thefts were reported across the Hadlow TWO brothers have set up a website where learner drivers can find and Kings Hill areas on Wednes- reputable and dependable driving instructors. day, February 26. All the offences happened in daylight with the car Kevin and Oliver Tuffney, who being jacked up and the catalytic spent much of their childhood in converter sawn off. Larkfield, claim they have spotted a gap in the market where pupils Chief Inspector Jon Kirby said: can be connected with potential “Anyone who witnesses any suspi- teachers. cious activity should report it im- Kevin (29) says he found it hard mediately via 101 or 999 if in to find work in a “referrals-based progress. Alternatively, call industry” when he first qualified Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or as an instructor. go to www.crimestoppers-uk.” Now he and Oliver (27) have set The following advice has been is- up rateddrivinginstructors.com to sued to drivers: help solve the problem. l Car manufacturers sell clamps The brothers claim the site al- and security cages to make cat- ready has 100 instructors in Kent alytic converters difficult to steal. who are actively using the site to find work and receiving regular l Park your vehicle in a garage business via the booking system. wherever possible, or in a busy, Oliver said: “Now Kent has well-lit area. proven there is a demand for the l Consider installing good quality service, our mission is to help con- CCTV cameras. nect learners and instructors across l Security-mark the metal shell of the UK. the converter so that it can be “The driving instructor industry registered driving instructors in with a solution which we believe traced to you. remains more or less untouched by the United Kingdom. can serve that need.” technology, while its customers are According to Department for The website is currently free to part of the digital generation. This Transport statistics, between 1,700 use, but will eventually introduce Pitch battles gap between demand and supply and 3,000 new instructors are given a pay wall for learners who will ANGRY supporters of a local is the opportunity for us to make trainee licences each year. pay a one-off fee for a connection. football club packed a village hall the experience better for learners Kevin said: “After I passed the This could help practising driv- to protest at changes imposed by and instructors.” necessary tests, I found it hard to ing instructors (PDIs) who are not the parish council on the use of According to the insurance web- get work in an industry where so yet at the fully-qualified stage and training facilities at the Sports site uswitch, learner drivers spend much work is obtained through re- find it hard to get enough work. Park, Kings Hill. on average £1,000 on lessons before ferrals and personal recommenda- In time, the brothers hope to tap Kings Hill FC have trained and they get to the test stage. tions. into other revenue streams such as enjoyed priority bookings at the Currently, there are about 40,000 “So Oliver and I have come up insurance companies. Sports Park since 2003. Following a decision by the parish council to re-allocate a mid-week training slot Nerissa’s to an out-of-area team, more than 300 people, including many of Kings Hill FC’s players, voiced extra care their objections. The parish council say they are trying to work with all teams to en- recognised sure everyone has training slots. SNODLAND care worker Nerissa Dimbylow has received a special award for “going above and be- Ranger walk yond” in her sector. A NIGHTINGALE walk is being Nerissa (44), who works for a held at Leybourne Lakes Country local provider in Maidstone, was Park. recognised for providing person- The guided walk will take place alised care and companionship to around the country park with the her clients. rangers on April 23 and April 30, She has delivered birthday cakes both from 5pm to 7pm. and cards to those in her care as Discover new parts of the park well as delivering the odd blanket where you will learn about the rare to those in need. nightingale. Bring your binoculars. Nerissa, centre, is surrounded by Booking is essential – go to friend and colleagues. www.eventbrite.co.uk.

4 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Warning after vehicle crimes Brothers’ website helps MOTORISTS are reminded to look out for suspicious activity following a number of car crimes get learners on the road in Kings Hill. Nine catalytic converter thefts were reported across the Hadlow TWO brothers have set up a website where learner drivers can find and Kings Hill areas on Wednes- reputable and dependable driving instructors. day, February 26. All the offences happened in daylight with the car Kevin and Oliver Tuffney, who being jacked up and the catalytic spent much of their childhood in converter sawn off. Larkfield, claim they have spotted a gap in the market where pupils Chief Inspector Jon Kirby said: can be connected with potential “Anyone who witnesses any suspi- teachers. cious activity should report it im- Kevin (29) says he found it hard Baby recovers mediately via 101 or 999 if in to find work in a “referrals-based progress. Alternatively, call industry” when he first qualified Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or as an instructor. go to www.crimestoppers-uk.” Now he and Oliver (27) have set after house fire The following advice has been is- up rateddrivinginstructors.com to help solve the problem. sued to drivers: A BABY girl was injured when a spokesman said: “Crews wearing The brothers claim the site al- l Car manufacturers sell clamps family home in Mereworth went breathing apparatus used two ready has 100 instructors in Kent and security cages to make cat- up in flames. main jets, two hose reel jets and who are actively using the site to alytic converters difficult to steal. Emergency services were called water from a hydrant to tackle the find work and receiving regular l Park your vehicle in a garage to the house in The Street in the blaze on the first floor, which had business via the booking system. early hours of Sunday, February spread into the roof space. wherever possible, or in a busy, Oliver said: “Now Kent has 23. Fire crews tackled the blaze “One adult suffering burns, and well-lit area. proven there is a demand for the for nearly five hours. two adults and a child suffering l Consider installing good quality service, our mission is to help con- A GoFundMe page was set up the effects of smoke inhalation, CCTV cameras. nect learners and instructors across by family members who say the were outside the house on arrival l Security-mark the metal shell of the UK. home has been wrecked by the and were handed into the care of “The driving instructor industry the converter so that it can be registered driving instructors in with a solution which we believe mystery blaze, believed to have SECAmb paramedics. Where there’s a remains more or less untouched by traced to you. the United Kingdom. can serve that need.” started in a first-floor bedroom. “Firefighters managed to rescue technology, while its customers are According to Department for The website is currently free to Organiser Kris Hodges wrote: two cats from the property. ” part of the digital generation. This Transport statistics, between 1,700 use, but will eventually introduce “Everyone, including the baby Mr Hodges added: “The little Will there’s a way Pitch battles gap between demand and supply and 3,000 new instructors are given a pay wall for learners who will and the two cats, survived which one is now chuckling away bliss- ANGRY supporters of a local is the opportunity for us to make trainee licences each year. pay a one-off fee for a connection. we are all beyond grateful and fully unaware that any of it hap- Your Will can be a very powerful tool to help your football club packed a village hall the experience better for learners Kevin said: “After I passed the This could help practising driv- blessed to be able to say. The fire pened. She has certainly kept us to protest at changes imposed by loved ones. It can: and instructors.” necessary tests, I found it hard to ing instructors (PDIs) who are not has, however, taken with it abso- more than entertained and in the parish council on the use of According to the insurance web- get work in an industry where so yet at the fully-qualified stage and lutely all belongings, clothes and high spirits.” training facilities at the Sports • Ensure your assets are left to the people you choose site uswitch, learner drivers spend much work is obtained through re- find it hard to get enough work. sentimental items which will To make a donation, visit Park, Kings Hill. on average £1,000 on lessons before ferrals and personal recommenda- In time, the brothers hope to tap never be able to be replaced.” www.gofundme.com/f/mere- • Protect your family - appoint guardians for Kings Hill FC have trained and they get to the test stage. tions. into other revenue streams such as A Kent Fire and Rescue worth-house-fire. your children enjoyed priority bookings at the Currently, there are about 40,000 “So Oliver and I have come up insurance companies. Sports Park since 2003. Following • Save your family tax a decision by the parish council to • Give you peace of mind, a very valuable commodity re-allocate a mid-week training slot Nerissa’s to an out-of-area team, more than Just as you take expert advice when buying a new 300 people, including many of house or investment plan, it’s even more important to Kings Hill FC’s players, voiced extra care take expert advice regarding your Will. their objections. The parish council say they are If you don’t have a Will – now is the time to discuss trying to work with all teams to en- recognised your wishes. If you have a Will – does it still reflect your sure everyone has training slots. SNODLAND care worker Nerissa Dimbylow has received a special wishes and in a tax efficient way? award for “going above and be- Ranger walk yond” in her sector. To review your current Will at no charge contact A NIGHTINGALE walk is being Nerissa (44), who works for a us today. held at Leybourne Lakes Country local provider in Maidstone, was Canterbury 01227 643266 Park. recognised for providing person- Squeeze singer in town Maidstone 01622 69801 The guided walk will take place alised care and companionship to her clients. THE Maidstone Fringe Festival returns to the county town soon with for- Tenterden 01580 7675 around the country park with the mer Squeeze singer-songwriter Glenn Tilbrook as the lead act. rangers on April 23 and April 30, She has delivered birthday cakes and cards to those in her care as The event takes place over April 29 to May 3 and most acts are free to www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk both from 5pm to 7pm. attend but some are ticketed. well as delivering the odd blanket Discover new parts of the park Tilbrook (pictured left), whose writing partnership with Chris Difford Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in to those in need. where you will learn about the rare (right) created hits such as Cool for Cats, Labelled with Love and Up the England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Nerissa, centre, is surrounded by Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by nightingale. Bring your binoculars. Junction, is at the music room at Pizza Hut on May 2. friend and colleagues. the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. Booking is essential – go to For more details go to www.maidstonefringe.com. www.eventbrite.co.uk. DM2019

Malling March 2020 5 News downsmail.co.uk Don’t panic, wash your hands NEWS of the Coronavirus outbreak that started in Wuhan, China, is changing daily, but public health officials have been urging people to prepare, not panic. At the time of going to press, tact with the virus, touching your Public Health England say 319 face can help it enter your body. cases have been confirmed in the l Do take extra precautions and UK, with six confirmed cases in stay out of public gatherings if Kent. you’re over 60 years old, or have a The respiratory infection, higher risk of contracting the named COVID-19 by the World virus. Health organisations say Health Organisation (WHO) is the highest risk groups appear to closely related to SARS and be seniors and people with pre- MERS. existing heart or respiratory dis- While the majority of cases are eases, and diabetes. in China, the infection has been di- l Do seek help early if you have a agnosed in dozens of countries, fever, cough and difficulty breath- including the USA. ing. Telephone 111 and follow the Italy has been in lockdown advice you are given. Do not go to since March 10, with public gath- your GP. You will be tested for erings cancelled and schools and COVID-19. most probably at universities closed. ment, but health organisations are l Do cover your mouth and nose home. So, what do you need to know? developing vaccines. when sneezing with a tissue. Dis- Health experts across the coun- And what can you do? The WHO says face masks are pose of the tissue immediately. try are assessing new cases on an How do you catch it? The NHS not actually, very effective. They Stay at least one metre away from hourly basis to achieve a balanced says this is not known, but simi- are too loose, don’t cover your people coughing or sneezing. response. New measures, includ- lar viruses spread through cough eyes and can’t be worn for long l Do wash your hands several ing those aimed at protecting the droplets. periods. And don’t wear a face- times a day. Use soap and water elderly and others considered vul- What are the symptoms? A high mask unless you’re sick. Masks or a hand sanitiser with at least nerable, are expected. Current temperature, coughing, and help protect others from catching 60% alcohol. modelling suggests the disease shortness of breath. the virus. Wearing one when l Don’t touch your eyes, nose or won’t peak until the summer Is there a cure? None at the mo- you’re healthy won’t help much. mouth. If you have come into con- months. ‘Buddies’ Firms rally to take to the help isolated STAFF at Brewers Fayre Castle telephones Lake, Leybourne, and Larkfield JACKIE Hirsch, director of taxi service Place2Place, have ral- the Larkfield Community- lied round to help those vulnerable Group has had to put their to the threat of Coronavirus. “Buddies Scheme” on hold Castle Lake general manager temporarily due to the threat Kelly Doyle used social media to from Coronavirus. appeal for dried goods, toiletries With the elderly being at and other items that may help most risk of infection, Jackie those unable to go shopping. took the decision to stop as- She said: “If anyone has any- sessing new referrals, and to thing to contribute, please drop it stop recruiting new volun- to us at Castle Lake.” teers until the virus is under Pupils kept at home Castle Lake can accept: control. l Canned food AYLESFORD Secondary School in Teapot Lane shut to years 7, 8 and 9 last “It’s such a shame, but our l Dried goods inc. cereals week as staff and pupils self-isolated following coronavirus symptoms. members understand totally l Long-life milk The school had told parents to keep their children at home if they were why we have to do this” said l Toiletries in the affected years, but pupils in the years above were still able to attend. Jackie. “If we can’t visit, we l Nappies Tanya Kelvie, head teacher at Aylesford School, said; “We had a number make sure our ‘Buddies’ l Baby milk of staff and students self-isolating and as such it was untenable to run the phone and keep in touch l Wipes school at full capacity.” with our members.” Place2Place Cars will arrange to The head said no cases of Covid-19 had been confirmed on site. “It’s very worrying” she do residents’ shopping and deliver said. it to their homes free of charge. “Most of our members are Anyone who needs anything elderly, isolated people Where to get the latest news should let the firm call 01622 which is why we started the WITH the start of daily briefings from the government concerning all 791400 or 01732 871234. scheme, and now when they things COVID-19, here is a useful link to official guidance on the coro- A spokesman wrote: "We’ve had may be in most need of social navirus, social distancing for everyone in the UK and protecting older lots of kind people offering to do- contact, we can’t be there to people and the vulnerable: nate towards the cost of our petrol. provide it”. www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 While we appreciate this gesture, l See story on page 23 could we ask you to donate to a local food bank instead."

6 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Don’t panic, wash your hands NEWS of the Coronavirus outbreak that started in Wuhan, China, is changing daily, but public health officials have been urging people to prepare, not panic. At the time of going to press, tact with the virus, touching your Public Health England say 319 face can help it enter your body. cases have been confirmed in the l Do take extra precautions and UK, with six confirmed cases in stay out of public gatherings if Kent. you’re over 60 years old, or have a The respiratory infection, higher risk of contracting the named COVID-19 by the World virus. Health organisations say Health Organisation (WHO) is the highest risk groups appear to closely related to SARS and be seniors and people with pre- MERS. existing heart or respiratory dis- While the majority of cases are eases, and diabetes. in China, the infection has been di- l Do seek help early if you have a agnosed in dozens of countries, fever, cough and difficulty breath- including the USA. ing. Telephone 111 and follow the Italy has been in lockdown advice you are given. Do not go to since March 10, with public gath- your GP. You will be tested for erings cancelled and schools and COVID-19. most probably at universities closed. ment, but health organisations are l Do cover your mouth and nose home. So, what do you need to know? developing vaccines. when sneezing with a tissue. Dis- Health experts across the coun- And what can you do? The WHO says face masks are pose of the tissue immediately. try are assessing new cases on an How do you catch it? The NHS not actually, very effective. They Stay at least one metre away from hourly basis to achieve a balanced says this is not known, but simi- are too loose, don’t cover your people coughing or sneezing. response. New measures, includ- lar viruses spread through cough eyes and can’t be worn for long l Do wash your hands several ing those aimed at protecting the droplets. periods. And don’t wear a face- times a day. Use soap and water elderly and others considered vul- What are the symptoms? A high mask unless you’re sick. Masks or a hand sanitiser with at least nerable, are expected. Current temperature, coughing, and help protect others from catching 60% alcohol. modelling suggests the disease shortness of breath. the virus. Wearing one when l Don’t touch your eyes, nose or won’t peak until the summer Is there a cure? None at the mo- you’re healthy won’t help much. mouth. If you have come into con- months. ‘Buddies’ Firms rally to take to the help isolated STAFF at Brewers Fayre Castle telephones Lake, Leybourne, and Larkfield JACKIE Hirsch, director of taxi service Place2Place, have ral- the Larkfield Community- lied round to help those vulnerable Group has had to put their to the threat of Coronavirus. “Buddies Scheme” on hold Castle Lake general manager temporarily due to the threat Kelly Doyle used social media to from Coronavirus. appeal for dried goods, toiletries With the elderly being at and other items that may help most risk of infection, Jackie those unable to go shopping. took the decision to stop as- She said: “If anyone has any- sessing new referrals, and to thing to contribute, please drop it stop recruiting new volun- to us at Castle Lake.” teers until the virus is under Pupils kept at home Castle Lake can accept: control. l Canned food AYLESFORD Secondary School in Teapot Lane shut to years 7, 8 and 9 last “It’s such a shame, but our l Dried goods inc. cereals week as staff and pupils self-isolated following coronavirus symptoms. members understand totally l Long-life milk The school had told parents to keep their children at home if they were why we have to do this” said l Toiletries in the affected years, but pupils in the years above were still able to attend. Jackie. “If we can’t visit, we l Nappies Tanya Kelvie, head teacher at Aylesford School, said; “We had a number make sure our ‘Buddies’ l Baby milk of staff and students self-isolating and as such it was untenable to run the phone and keep in touch l Wipes school at full capacity.” with our members.” Place2Place Cars will arrange to The head said no cases of Covid-19 had been confirmed on site. “It’s very worrying” she do residents’ shopping and deliver said. it to their homes free of charge. “Most of our members are Anyone who needs anything elderly, isolated people Where to get the latest news should let the firm call 01622 which is why we started the WITH the start of daily briefings from the government concerning all 791400 or 01732 871234. scheme, and now when they things COVID-19, here is a useful link to official guidance on the coro- A spokesman wrote: "We’ve had may be in most need of social navirus, social distancing for everyone in the UK and protecting older lots of kind people offering to do- contact, we can’t be there to people and the vulnerable: nate towards the cost of our petrol. provide it”. www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 While we appreciate this gesture, l See story on page 23 could we ask you to donate to a local food bank instead."

Malling March 2020 7 News downsmail.co.uk Plaque tribute to war hero HALLING Historical Society has successfully raised funds to place a blue plaque on the former home of WWI hero Thomas Harris VC, MM. Sgt Harris was living at 79 High were causing heavy casualties. He Street, when he enlisted in the captured the first gun, but was Queen’s Own Royal West Kent himself killed when attacking the Regiment in 1914. second. The recipient of both the Mili- “Throughout the operations, he tary Medal and the Victoria showed a total disregard for his Cross, the highest and most pres- own safety and set a magnificent tigious award for gallantry in the example to all ranks.” face of the enemy, Harris enlisted His body is buried at Dernan- at 22 years of age in August 1914. court Communal Cemetery Ex- Posted to France in June 1915, tension, Somme, France, and he was promoted to corporal in commemorated at St John the June 1916 and wounded in action Baptist Church, Halling. a month later. Following hospi- His Victoria Cross is displayed talisation in Britain, he was at The Queen’s Own Royal West awarded the Military Medal and Kent Regiment Museum in Maid- returned to the Western Front in Sgt Thomas Harris and his home in Halling stone. May 1917. notification in the London ris led his section against one of Administered by English Her- He was promoted to Sergeant Gazette, October 1918, reads: “For these, capturing it and killing itage the blue plaque scheme cel- in March 1918, but was killed in most conspicuous bravery and seven of the enemy.” ebrates the links between notable action near Morlancourt on the devotion to duty in attack when “Later, on two successive occa- figures of the past and the build- evening of August 9. His Victoria the advance was much impeded sions, he attacked single-handed ings in which they lived or Cross citation and accompanying by hostile machine guns. Sgt Har- two enemy machine guns which worked. Road works Volunteer day for 20 weeks at the hospice THERE will be highway improve- THE Heart of Kent Hospice is ment works for 20 weeks in Ditton. hosting a volunteer open morn- The works will take place be- ing. tween New Hythe Lane and Ditton Visitors are invited to come and Place on the A20 London Road. find out about the amazing con- The existing traffic signals will be tribution volunteers make by giv- turned off, to be replaced by an ad- ing time regularly or on an ad vanced temporary traffic system hoc basis. which mimics the existing layout A hospice spokesman said: “We to keep the traffic moving and re- have a variety of volunteer roles duce the possibility of delays. in our shops, with patients in the The carriageway re-surfacing community or on our inpatient will take place overnight for five unit, at our events or on our Liv- nights. Footway improvement ing Well sessions. works will mean localised footway “We are particularly interested closures and pedestrian diversions in volunteers with training in the whilst maintaining two-way traffic. Popular church saved arts, music, storytelling, exercise Pedestrian island works will be techniques such as tai chi and constructed using temporary traf- A CHURCH at the “heart of the At a meeting on February 20, yoga and complementary thera- fic signals outside peak hours. parish” has been saved from clo- the Archbishop of Southwark, pies.” The road is due to reopen on sure, following a public outcry to John Wilson, told campaigners For more information, call vol- June 19. stop it being sold for housing. that the Catholic church, attended unteer services on 01622 792200 The St Thomas More Church in by over 200 regular worshippers Ext 225 or send an email to vol- Market back West Malling had been earmarked each Sunday, would no longer be [email protected]. as having development potential, sold. THE West Malling Farmers’ Mar- alongside the priest’s house and a But while the church has been WI Park talk ket will return this month. pre-school, recently converted saved, questions remain over the The event takes place in the from stables at a cost of £85,000. future of the pre-school and parish THE Aylesford and Eccles WI will High Street, from 9.30am to Father Peter Soper (pictured) centre in Lucks Hill. be hosting a talk about Mote Park. 1.30pm on the fourth Sunday of who has lived on the site for over A statement from the archdio- Simon Ginnow will talk about the month. 20 years, said: “We are absolutely cese said they were looking for the well-known amenity at the The market offers farm pro- delighted. The West Malling ways to keep the school and meeting at the Brassey Centre in duced meats, fruit, vegetables and parish covers 36 miles and 10 vil- parish centre at the current loca- Aylesford, at 7.30pm on Wednes- cheeses, as well as artisan made lages, which have all been brought tion, but confirmed the priest’s day, March 25. breads and cakes. The next mar- together through the church.” house will still be sold. For more information phone ket is on Sunday, April 26. Eileen on 01622 715205.

8 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Plaque tribute to war hero HALLING Historical Society has successfully raised funds to place a blue plaque on the former home of WWI hero Thomas Harris VC, MM. Sgt Harris was living at 79 High were causing heavy casualties. He Street, when he enlisted in the captured the first gun, but was Queen’s Own Royal West Kent himself killed when attacking the Regiment in 1914. second. The recipient of both the Mili- “Throughout the operations, he tary Medal and the Victoria showed a total disregard for his Cross, the highest and most pres- own safety and set a magnificent tigious award for gallantry in the example to all ranks.” face of the enemy, Harris enlisted His body is buried at Dernan- at 22 years of age in August 1914. court Communal Cemetery Ex- Posted to France in June 1915, tension, Somme, France, and he was promoted to corporal in commemorated at St John the June 1916 and wounded in action Baptist Church, Halling. a month later. Following hospi- His Victoria Cross is displayed talisation in Britain, he was at The Queen’s Own Royal West awarded the Military Medal and Kent Regiment Museum in Maid- returned to the Western Front in Sgt Thomas Harris and his home in Halling stone. May 1917. notification in the London ris led his section against one of Administered by English Her- He was promoted to Sergeant Gazette, October 1918, reads: “For these, capturing it and killing itage the blue plaque scheme cel- in March 1918, but was killed in most conspicuous bravery and seven of the enemy.” ebrates the links between notable action near Morlancourt on the devotion to duty in attack when “Later, on two successive occa- figures of the past and the build- evening of August 9. His Victoria the advance was much impeded sions, he attacked single-handed ings in which they lived or Cross citation and accompanying by hostile machine guns. Sgt Har- two enemy machine guns which worked. Road works Volunteer day for 20 weeks at the hospice THERE will be highway improve- THE Heart of Kent Hospice is ment works for 20 weeks in Ditton. hosting a volunteer open morn- The works will take place be- ing. tween New Hythe Lane and Ditton Visitors are invited to come and Place on the A20 London Road. find out about the amazing con- The existing traffic signals will be tribution volunteers make by giv- turned off, to be replaced by an ad- ing time regularly or on an ad vanced temporary traffic system hoc basis. which mimics the existing layout A hospice spokesman said: “We to keep the traffic moving and re- have a variety of volunteer roles duce the possibility of delays. in our shops, with patients in the The carriageway re-surfacing community or on our inpatient will take place overnight for five unit, at our events or on our Liv- nights. Footway improvement ing Well sessions. works will mean localised footway “We are particularly interested closures and pedestrian diversions in volunteers with training in the whilst maintaining two-way traffic. Popular church saved arts, music, storytelling, exercise Pedestrian island works will be techniques such as tai chi and constructed using temporary traf- A CHURCH at the “heart of the At a meeting on February 20, yoga and complementary thera- fic signals outside peak hours. parish” has been saved from clo- the Archbishop of Southwark, pies.” The road is due to reopen on sure, following a public outcry to John Wilson, told campaigners For more information, call vol- June 19. stop it being sold for housing. that the Catholic church, attended unteer services on 01622 792200 The St Thomas More Church in by over 200 regular worshippers Ext 225 or send an email to vol- Market back West Malling had been earmarked each Sunday, would no longer be [email protected]. as having development potential, sold. THE West Malling Farmers’ Mar- alongside the priest’s house and a But while the church has been WI Park talk ket will return this month. pre-school, recently converted saved, questions remain over the The event takes place in the from stables at a cost of £85,000. future of the pre-school and parish THE Aylesford and Eccles WI will High Street, from 9.30am to Father Peter Soper (pictured) centre in Lucks Hill. be hosting a talk about Mote Park. 1.30pm on the fourth Sunday of who has lived on the site for over A statement from the archdio- Simon Ginnow will talk about the month. 20 years, said: “We are absolutely cese said they were looking for the well-known amenity at the The market offers farm pro- delighted. The West Malling ways to keep the school and meeting at the Brassey Centre in duced meats, fruit, vegetables and parish covers 36 miles and 10 vil- parish centre at the current loca- Aylesford, at 7.30pm on Wednes- cheeses, as well as artisan made lages, which have all been brought tion, but confirmed the priest’s day, March 25. breads and cakes. The next mar- together through the church.” house will still be sold. For more information phone ket is on Sunday, April 26. Eileen on 01622 715205.

Malling March 2020 9 News downsmail.co.uk Shakespeare at the castle Drunk hit woman in THE Heart of Kent Hospice has joined the Changeling Theatre and Allington Castle to bring A Midsummer Night’s Dream to row over ‘£20 loan’ Maidstone. The show will take place at AN ALCOHOLIC dodged jail admits he has a drinking problem. Allington Castle on Sunday, after punching a woman in the “He just lost it and was very July 26. mouth leaving her in “constant upset. He understands he doesn’t This year, Changeling marks throbbing pain”. have a pretty record and he is its 20th anniversary bringing Harry Smith (25), formerly of known to probation.” high quality, outdoor touring Leybourne but now living at Link The court heard Smith has over productions of Shakespeare House, Maidstone, hit the victim in £1,000 in outstanding court fines. plays to community audiences Boots because “she owed him £20”. The chairman of the bench said: across Kent and beyond. Maidstone Magistrates Court “We took some time to come to an A Midsummer Night’s heard the victim was too afraid to outcome on this matter. A big ag- Dream has been chosen as it leave her flat and remembers the gravating factor is that this was an was the first Shakespeare play incident every time she shuts her unprovoked attack in a public the company toured back in eyes or eats, due to the pain. place, you caused injury and you 2001. Prosecuting, Chelsea Clarke assaulted two police officers. Changeling’s creative direc- said: “At about 11.30am the victim “You were also on a community tor Rob Forknall said: “Every was approached by Mr Smith in In a statement read to the court, order at the time of the assaults. year we ask our audience to Boots. The pair began to argue over the victim said: “It’s like a recur- However, we have heard you have vote for their choice of plays the money allegedly owed to the de- ring nightmare. I can’t leave my taken some steps to sort out your following year. fendant. flat and I feel mentally drained. problems.” “We decided not to do this in “Mr Smith was heard on the Every time the pain comes when I Smith pleaded guilty to three 2020, because we wanted to phone saying he was going to eat, it’s a constant reminder of charges of assault and was given mark our 20th anniversary and, ‘smack her in the head’ if she did what happened.” an 18-month suspended sentence, well, audiences always want us not pay the money. Defending, Samuel Sotunde a nine-month alcohol treatment to do A Midsummer Night’s “He then punched her in the said: “He regrets and apologises to programme, 20 rehabilitation days, Dream.” mouth. Once arrested, he then the victim and the officers. He was a 12-week curfew and £350 in com- kicked two police officers.” under the influence of alcohol and pensation fines.

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10 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Shakespeare Ferry disaster at the castle Drunk hit woman in Bike gang victim backs focus of talk THE Heart of Kent Hospice has THE Aylesford Active Retirement joined the Changeling Theatre Association will be hosting a talk and Allington Castle to bring A about the Zeebrugge disaster. Midsummer Night’s Dream to row over ‘£20 loan’ police education plan The tragedy saw 193 people Maidstone. drown when the Herald of Free The show will take place at AN ALCOHOLIC dodged jail admits he has a drinking problem. A MOTHER of two who fell vic- riding recklessly in large groups, Enterprise ferry capsized just off Allington Castle on Sunday, after punching a woman in the “He just lost it and was very tim to a gang of bikers has wel- often into direct traffic. Belgium. July 26. mouth leaving her in “constant upset. He understands he doesn’t comed a new initiative by police A Kent Police spokesman said: The group’s next meeting will This year, Changeling marks throbbing pain”. have a pretty record and he is to educate children on the dan- “Over the past year we have been take place in the Aylesford Com- its 20th anniversary bringing Harry Smith (25), formerly of known to probation.” gers of “ride-out” events. made aware of concerns over a munity Centre at 2pm on Thurs- high quality, outdoor touring Leybourne but now living at Link The court heard Smith has over Carla Betts (49) was driving her number of ride-outs across the day, March 26. productions of Shakespeare House, Maidstone, hit the victim in £1,000 in outstanding court fines. 13-year-old daughter Katya to a county. If you have some spare time or plays to community audiences Boots because “she owed him £20”. The chairman of the bench said: bowling party in Ditton when her “Those who take part often film are just looking to meet new peo- across Kent and beyond. Maidstone Magistrates Court “We took some time to come to an car was swarmed by more than 30 their actions to share on various ple, call Wayne for more informa- A Midsummer Night’s heard the victim was too afraid to outcome on this matter. A big ag- bike gang members. social media platforms.” tion on 01622 710734. Dream has been chosen as it leave her flat and remembers the gravating factor is that this was an One child grabbed her wing “Through the use of video and was the first Shakespeare play incident every time she shuts her unprovoked attack in a public mirror and punched her window role play, we are showing chil- Council role the company toured back in eyes or eats, due to the pain. place, you caused injury and you numerous times before swerving dren the effects of a car colliding FANCY doing more for your com- 2001. Prosecuting, Chelsea Clarke assaulted two police officers. in front of her. with a cyclist, with advice also munity at the sharp end? Changeling’s creative direc- said: “At about 11.30am the victim “You were also on a community Community safety officers say given on issues including safe Kings Hill is looking for three tor Rob Forknall said: “Every was approached by Mr Smith in In a statement read to the court, order at the time of the assaults. they have now visited 16 schools stopping distances and the im- new parish councillors. year we ask our audience to Boots. The pair began to argue over the victim said: “It’s like a recur- However, we have heard you have in the Malling area to educate portance of bicycle maintenance.” Parish clerk Julie Miller said: vote for their choice of plays the money allegedly owed to the de- ring nightmare. I can’t leave my taken some steps to sort out your young people about the perils of Sergeant Sarah Alvey, of the ignoring road safety advice, to Tonbridge and Malling Commu- “We have a very busy parish, following year. fendant. flat and I feel mentally drained. problems.” “Any movement any local both themselves and other road nity Safety Unit said: “We are which makes the role as councillor “We decided not to do this in “Mr Smith was heard on the Every time the pain comes when I Smith pleaded guilty to three council, police force or school can users. make is a step in the right direc- working hard to get the message challenging, yet really interesting.” 2020, because we wanted to phone saying he was going to eat, it’s a constant reminder of charges of assault and was given Mrs Betts said: “I think any- tion. I would definitely be willing through that what may seem like If you are interested in taking on mark our 20th anniversary and, ‘smack her in the head’ if she did what happened.” an 18-month suspended sentence, thing, however small, to try and to support such a project and I a bit of harmless fun, can actually the role, call Julie for an informal well, audiences always want us not pay the money. Defending, Samuel Sotunde a nine-month alcohol treatment educate all children on the dan- know others would as well.” be extremely dangerous, resulting chat on 01732 870382 or contact her to do A Midsummer Night’s “He then punched her in the said: “He regrets and apologises to programme, 20 rehabilitation days, gers of this activity has to be a A “ride-out” sees youngsters in serious injury, or even tragic by email at clerk@kingshill- Dream.” mouth. Once arrested, he then the victim and the officers. He was a 12-week curfew and £350 in com- kicked two police officers.” under the influence of alcohol and pensation fines. good thing. causing havoc on the roads by consequences.” parish.gov.uk.

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Malling March 2020 11 News downsmail.co.uk MP’s anger at road hold-up Homes group told to TRACEY Crouch, MP for Chatham and Aylesford, hit out at Highways England after roadworks on the M20 and A20 brought rush-hour sort fire safety risks traffic to a standstill at J7 for Maid- stone on Monday, March 2. Overnight works on the new MAIDSTONE'S biggest social housing provider, Golding Homes, has stretch of smart motorway be- been served a regulatory notice for “high risk” electrical failings. tween J7 and J4 had finished on time, but clearing the traffic man- The landlord did not complete serious harm is demonstrated be- agement system caused the delays. more than 100 actions arising cause of the large number of ten- The £92m scheme to reduce con- from fire risk assessments, with ants potentially exposed to danger gestion should finish this month. the work left undone for a “num- from fire or faulty electrical instal- Ms Crouch said: “I’ve asked for ber of months”. lations over a significant period of overnight works on the M20 to fin- Golding Homes, which owns time.” ish at 5am so any overrun doesn’t and manages around 7,000 Golding Homes’ current top impact on the morning rush hour, dwellings, identified a large num- governance rating is now under re- but I’ve been told it can’t happen.” ber of “potentially dangerous” view because of the breach, but the Work to update traffic lights on overdue actions, says the Regula- RSH said it will work with the as- the A20 between New Hythe Lane, tor of Social Housing (RSH). sociation to address issues going Larkfield, and Ditton Place exacer- The RSH said the failings could forward. bated the problems on the M20. cause serious and detrimental Chris Cheeseman, pictured, harm to tenants and breach the chairman of Golding Homes, said: Help with tea Home Standard, which requires “We wish to apologise to our resi- social landlords to meet all “statu- dents and reassure them that their MEREWORTH church is seeking a new co-ordinator for afternoon tory requirements which provide compliance, principally in respect safety remains our top priority, cream teas. for the health and safety of tenants of the fire and electrical safety, of now and always, and we will be The events are a vital source of in their homes”. some of their homes. working to deliver on our action income for the grade I listed build- Maidstone Borough Council's “Their chair has assured the plan as swiftly as possible.” ing and a plea has gone out for head of regeneration, William Cor- council that they are working l GOLDING Homes’ chief execu- more volunteers to assist with the nall, wrote to key MBC personnel swiftly through an action plan to tive Gary Clark has stepped down organisation and weekly opera- to say: “We have been advised by remedy the situation, and our two after three years. Sue Chalkley tions of fund-raising activities. the chairman of Golding Homes organisations will remain in regu- OBE, previously with the Hastoe For details, email Viv Bennet at that they have received a regula- lar contact on the matter.” Housing Group, has been ap- mereworthpccsecretary@gmail. tory notice from the RSH in respect The RSH notice said: “The regu- pointed as Mr Clark’s interim re- com. of areas of health and safety non- lator has concluded that the risk of placement for six months. Book stall for picnic date LARKFIELD Community Group is now taking bookings for its “Pic- nic on the Rec” at the Larkfield Recreation Ground in New Hythe Lane on Sunday, July 12 . Organiser Jackie Hirsch said: “This year we’re extending the fun Sandra Dias from 1pm until 5pm. If you would like a pitch it will cost £20 for a 3m Read, her son x 3m gazebo.” Oliver and the The day will include a dog competition, raffle, barbecue, music, head teacher of fancy dress and refreshments. Wateringbury Primary School, Chasey Crawford Usher. £500 boost to classes A FUNDRAISING campaign to ex- and inspiring environment is funda- pand two classrooms at Watering- mental to successful learning. bury CE Primary School is off to a “Cramped conditions easily dis- flying start, thanks to a £500 dona- tract children from their learning tion from a healthcare provider. and have a particularly detrimental The Bow Road school needs impact on those with special edu- £25,000 to extend two of its small- cational needs. This will give them est classrooms for its oldest pupils in space to learn and room to grow." Car hits bollard in car park A CAR struck a bollard in Sainsbury’s supermarket car park on the years five and six later this year. Any other local businesses wish- Quarry Wood Industrial Estate in Aylesford. The collision happened Headteacher Chasey Crawford ing to support the fundraising cam- at 10.55am on Monday, February 17. Usher said: “Children spend a sig- paign can contact the school on A Kent Police spokesman said: ”We were notified by South East nificant amount of time in the class- 01622 812199 or email office@wa- Coast Ambulance Service of a report that a car had struck a bollard in room so a spacious, comfortable teringbury.kent.sch.uk. a supermarket car park on the Quarry Wood Industrial Estate.”

12 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus MP’s anger at Never too old for a mortgage? road hold-up Homes group told to Key questions I would encourage clients homes when they felt selling was the only TRACEY Crouch, MP for Chatham to consider include: option. I have also helped a number of and Aylesford, hit out at Highways ~ How much do you REALLY need? parents release equity to enable their England after roadworks on the As interest is charged from the outset, children buy homes or to help in other ways. M20 and A20 brought rush-hour sort fire safety risks drawing more than is needed may be “After over 25 years in finance I take pride traffic to a standstill at J7 for Maid- unnecessarily costly in the time and care I take when speaking stone on Monday, March 2. ~ How much do you need NOW? with clients. It is absolutely essential to Overnight works on the new MAIDSTONE'S biggest social housing provider, Golding Homes, has Releasing a smaller amount “up front” understand what a client needs and what stretch of smart motorway be- been served a regulatory notice for “high risk” electrical failings. tween J7 and J4 had finished on and creating a drawdown facility allows their plans are for the future before I can time, but clearing the traffic man- The landlord did not complete serious harm is demonstrated be- access to money for the future but interest even begin to advise” agement system caused the delays. more than 100 actions arising cause of the large number of ten- is not paid until it is drawn Sarah is happy to visit your home and she The £92m scheme to reduce con- from fire risk assessments, with ants potentially exposed to danger ~ Do you plan to move house? is not just available 9-5 but will o‰er gestion should finish this month. the work left undone for a “num- from fire or faulty electrical instal- Many schemes are portable but the flexible times to suit her clients. Ms Crouch said: “I’ve asked for ber of months”. lations over a significant period of implications need to be discussed so we overnight works on the M20 to fin- Golding Homes, which owns time.” Equity Release is attracting more publicity can find the scheme with the right amount ish at 5am so any overrun doesn’t and manages around 7,000 Golding Homes’ current top than ever, however local adviser Sarah Ferrell of flexibility Call Sarah on impact on the morning rush hour, dwellings, identified a large num- governance rating is now under re- is concerned that people are confused. ~ Would you like to be able to pay but I’ve been told it can’t happen.” ber of “potentially dangerous” view because of the breach, but the “There are so many options available intertest on the mortgage? Work to update traffic lights on overdue actions, says the Regula- RSH said it will work with the as- these days that clients are bombarded It still surprises many people that most of 07789 007447 the A20 between New Hythe Lane, tor of Social Housing (RSH). sociation to address issues going with information”. today’s schemes allow payment of interest. Larkfield, and Ditton Place exacer- The RSH said the failings could forward. Sarah maintains that face to face advice This provides the capital needed without bated the problems on the M20. cause serious and detrimental Chris Cheeseman, pictured, is absolutely necessary. “This is not a quick the longer term costs people have 01622 631372 harm to tenants and breach the chairman of Golding Homes, said: decision and clients need guidance, not potentially been worried about. Help with tea Home Standard, which requires “We wish to apologise to our resi- forms to fill in and return by post”. I am a great advocate of Equity Release [email protected] social landlords to meet all “statu- dents and reassure them that their MEREWORTH church is seeking a There are huge benefits to Equity Release having seen the financial pressure it can www.sarahferrell-equityrelease.co.uk new co-ordinator for afternoon tory requirements which provide compliance, principally in respect safety remains our top priority, however there are also longer term relieve. It has been used for home cream teas. for the health and safety of tenants of the fire and electrical safety, of now and always, and we will be considerations. improvements and has kept people in their The events are a vital source of in their homes”. some of their homes. working to deliver on our action Equity Release will reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits. Maidstone Borough Council's plan as swiftly as possible.” income for the grade I listed build- “Their chair has assured the Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. head of regeneration, William Cor- council that they are working l GOLDING Homes’ chief execu- ing and a plea has gone out for Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. more volunteers to assist with the nall, wrote to key MBC personnel swiftly through an action plan to tive Gary Clark has stepped down to say: “We have been advised by after three years. Sue Chalkley organisation and weekly opera- remedy the situation, and our two MORTGAGES EQUITY RELEASE RE-MORTGAGE BUY-TO-LET FIRST TIME BUYERS tions of fund-raising activities. the chairman of Golding Homes organisations will remain in regu- OBE, previously with the Hastoe For details, email Viv Bennet at that they have received a regula- lar contact on the matter.” Housing Group, has been ap- mereworthpccsecretary@gmail. tory notice from the RSH in respect The RSH notice said: “The regu- pointed as Mr Clark’s interim re- com. of areas of health and safety non- lator has concluded that the risk of placement for six months. For all your heating and bathroom needs SKIP HIRE 01233 660 099 Book stall for picnic date Commercial & Domestic www.gboxkent.com LARKFIELD Community Group is now taking bookings for its “Pic- Recycling SeSpringrvNiecwelsy rBeAfuTHROOMrbished nic on the Rec” at the Larkfield Recreation Ground in New Hythe Lane on Sunday, July 12 . 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ANYTHING,ANYWHERE,PleaseALLHousehold,YouBuilders, Fr ee NameEnviAll WCCallonsultation RUBBISHDemolitionaitronment & P L CHEAPERrivateoadit.....Garage, AgencyService Shop,&work SiteConomme la SurveRAvailable r•egistege THANrWecial Factory,Garden,Officeor07801y, smallNo rwelcomeed Clear7 obligationCLEARED WdaysA asteunderta SKIP....ANDa CWaste.weekarriers kIt....quotesen706 732 WE LOAD £500 boost to classes A FUNDRAISING campaign to ex- and inspiring environment is funda- pand two classrooms at Watering- mental to successful learning. bury CE Primary School is off to a “Cramped conditions easily dis- flying start, thanks to a £500 dona- tract children from their learning Book Online tion from a healthcare provider. and have a particularly detrimental Order your skip via secure The Bow Road school needs impact on those with special edu- Skip Hire £25,000 to extend two of its small- cational needs. This will give them 24hr online book facility est classrooms for its oldest pupils in space to learn and room to grow." Car hits bollard in car park Roll On/Offs A CAR struck a bollard in Sainsbury’s supermarket car park on the years five and six later this year. Any other local businesses wish- 4 yard skip £200 inc vat Quarry Wood Industrial Estate in Aylesford. The collision happened Road Permits Arranged Headteacher Chasey Crawford ing to support the fundraising cam- at 10.55am on Monday, February 17. 6 yard skip £240 inc vat Waste Recycling Facility Usher said: “Children spend a sig- paign can contact the school on A Kent Police spokesman said: ”We were notified by South East nificant amount of time in the class- 01622 812199 or email office@wa- 8 yard skip £280 inc vat Many more services available Coast Ambulance Service of a report that a car had struck a bollard in room so a spacious, comfortable teringbury.kent.sch.uk. a supermarket car park on the Quarry Wood Industrial Estate.” 12 yard skip £360 inc vat See website for details

Malling March 2020 13 What o an Eent

14 Malling March 2020 Malling Mail March/April 2020 Serving local people, businesses & events in Addington, Birling, East Malling, Kings Hill, Larkfield, Leybourne, Mereworth, Offham, Ryarsh, Trottiscliffe, West Malling

GP practice “closes its doors”

THE spread of coronavirus has prompted West Malling GP many decades. practice to close its doors to walk-in patients. Two consulting rooms for a GP and a nurse have been The three surgeries at Kings Hill, Leybourne and West established at the Hollies annexe facing the surgery door, Malling, which make up the practice, say they are no longer between 8.30am and 6pm from Monday to Friday. But there open for face to face GP appointments. is no receptionist. Only patients who have phoned ahead and discussed Leybourne Surgery opens from 8.15am to 6pm, with three their symptoms with staff, will be allowed to visit for a consulting rooms on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. consultation. And Kings Hill Surgery is open Monday to Friday, with 16 It is the latest measure to stem the rapid infection rate of a consulting rooms on two floors, with lift access. respiratory illness which has sparked panic across the world. However, the practice stresses that, until further notice, The practice’s announcement came just days after it patients should not turn up unless they have been vetted moved out of Milverton House, its High Street surgery for over the phone by staff beforehand.

Hit and run

POPULAR police and community safety officer Mandy Harris Meanwhile, if anyone has information which could help was one of three pedestrians seriously injured in a hit and run on the police, please ring 01622 604100 or use the anonymous the West Malling High Street crossing. reporting line Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. She is recovering from two broken leg bones and a broken nose, but reports she is “feeling better” following the incident, which happened at around 4pm on Wednesday, March 11. Police say a black or blue Ford Fiesta came from West Street and turned left into High Street, knocking over the pedestrians, before driving away down Swan Street. It was later found in East Malling. Officers have viewed images from the two borough council CCTV cameras which overlook the site, at the crossing itself and at the Swan Street junction. Parish council chairman Trudy Dean said: “People are naturally worried. Once we have the police report, we will decide whether further action is needed to improve the safety at the crossing, or strengthen the existing 20mph limit and illuminated crossing signs”. LIDL

EAST Malling and Larkfield Parish Council has objected to the relies on them for assessing the traffic impact of all applications. application for a LIDL store on highway grounds. The County It does not look as though this application will be going to the Council, which is the highways authority, has not yet responded. planning committee for decision before at least the April meeting. However, its comments will be crucial as the Borough Council

A Malling Action Partnership publication What’s On Malling & district clubs, societies & activities

IT IS never too late to make a fresh start by taking up in the area in 2020. So if you would like your group or event new activities or making new friends. The many clubs and to be included, please send her all the information, includ- organisations in the Malling Action Partnership area cater ing your contact details. for a wide range of interests and offer a warm welcome Please let her know as far in advance as possible so that to newcomers, so why not give them a try? Details of it may be possible to avoid clashes and maximise the atten- regular meetings are listed on this page. dances at each event. Trudy Dean collates our community diary with details of Details should be emailed to [email protected] or various groups and is also compiling a list of special events call 01732 843119.

The present situation means that events are changing quickly so please check beforehand if your event is still taking place.

APRIL 4 KNIT & NATTER. CLARE LANE WORKING PARTY Every second Wednesday of Meet 10am at Clare Lane car park entrance. Please bring hand the month tools like secateurs, loppers, shears, rakes and wheelbarrows. But Bring your own knitting for a drink and a chat. The Malling please no power tools. The working parties will take place on the Jug, West Malling, 7pm to 9pm. first Saturday of every month from April 4 onwards. EMERGENCY VOLUNTEER HELP IN YOUR AREA. Several local volunteer groups are now helping out with such before 12 noon to catch same day delivery of shopping by things as shopping, posting mail, picking up medical supplies calling 01622 791400 and prescriptions, urgent emergency food requests, or just Leybourne Residents can contact Kirstie on Linkline 07565 requests for a friendly telephone chat. 586219 So if you, or anyone you know is in need of these services, East Malling residents can contact Liz Simpson on 01732 or you can volunteer some time to help, please get in contact 846314 ( office) or 07463 222733, or Michelle Tatton with one of the following 01732 521888 or 079957 West Malling Community Choir have a scheme covering Larkfield Residents should call 07563 196479 People with postcode ME19, ME6 and ME20. Please ring

New yellow lines and parking restrictions

A NUMBER of proposals for yellow lines in the area have been residents expressed concerns about the spaces being misused by approved. lorries parking overnight and Cllr David Thornewell warned the These include round the junctions of Temple Way and Meridian scheme might need to be reviewed if problems arise. Place, East Malling. A proposal to use Chaucer Way for overnight parking will not There will also be an extension to those in Brooklands Road, and be pursued due to fears that displaced cars would move into the a section of The Lakes, Larkfield, to prevent pavement parking. nearby closes instead. The yellow lines in Papyrus Way, New Hythe, are to be modified All the schemes were subject to two rounds of public to allow overnight parking, except by lorries. A number of consultation and we now await the signs and lines to appear. Road repair blitz

KENT County Council has agreed that it has enough money of the road surface by applying a mix of hot tar and to repair the whole of Leybourne Way from the A228 to New chippings after filling potholes). and machine resurfacing is Hythe Lane. planned for: Last winter David Thornewell and Trudy Dean had a site A20 London Road from Castle Way to New Hythe Lane meeting with road engineers and were told it was not bad Leybourne Way from the A228 to New Hythe Lane; enough to repair. A228 from Leybourne Way to junction 4 M20 and; Plover Road is to receive micro resurfacing from Swallow A228 Malling Road from the A26 roundabout to Blaise Road as far as number 46 (that is a fast waterproof sealing Farm Roundabout at Ashton Way. Borough Council approves higher car park charges

Despite many written objections and local councillors’ 3pm every day.) arguments, TMBC has approved increases in car parking Introducing charges in Martin Square and Snodland were charges in West Malling from April. Shoppers will now pay an delayed pending surveys to establish who uses the parking. A increase of 10p per hour. Long stay parking permit charges for similar survey in West Malling was refused. the Ryarsh Lane car park increase from £175 to £255 per year. Borough Green car park remains free on Saturdays whilst ( This car park remains free to the public without permits after Saturday charges remain In West Malling. Fighting floods

RAINFALL during February was two and a half times the long prized in Victorian times. term average, with a deluge of this magnitude last seen in • More Park School, Lucks Hill. Drainage engineers have 2014. discovered the system has been severed, and they are Although the county’s wettest day was February 15, working out how to replace it after soakaways were Malling has experienced flooding of rivers, drains and roads cleared on February 19. throughout the month and into March. • A20 near Sainsbury’s. Getting rid of this particular lake has proved challenging with funding, land ownership Here is a summary of the action being taken at key flood sites... and the problem of persuading water to flow uphill. The latest plan is to incorporate the scheme into the • Church Walk and New Road, East Malling. A “proposed roundabout”. This scheme will replace the contractor was due to jet the pipes out on March 17 Coldharbour Roundabout with a giant roundabout after a blockage in the system, caused by a lump of linking Hermitage Lane with the motorway slip roads. concrete, was removed to clear the flow. Michelle Tatton and Roger Roud continue to urge Kent County Council (KCC) to increase the capacity of the pipes around the New Road/Chapman Way junction to allow flood waters to drain away more quickly into the lake and stream on East Malling Research land. • Lunsford Lane flooding. East Malling and Larkfield parish council continues to press KCC to deal with the flooding that occurs most times it rains on the corner of Lunsford Lane where it joins A20. The water is supposed to flow into the lake on the other side of the lane. • Frog Lane, West Malling. One drain has been lifted and a new kerb installed to direct flood water away from house fronts. Pipes have now been jetted. Cllr Trudy Dean has asked for legal advice on who has the authority to insist that Network Rail finds a way of piping the stream beneath the railway bridge in flood conditions. Network Rail’s last attempt at increasing the capacity of the drain has proved insufficient, and the terrace of cottages is threatened with flooding. Meanwhile, a resident has excavated part of the pipework and managed to scrape out pieces of rock- hard tufa. This is formed when calcium carbonate sticks to moss on the side of pipes, slowing the water’s speed, in the same way kettle and shower pipes get “furred up”. It seems possible that the tufa may be forming a lining inside the pipes and restricting the flow, causing the stream to flood its banks. KCC have agreed to use an underground camera to scan the pipes for blockages. If it proves to be obstructed in this way, the tufa will need to be cut out. The Swan Street cascade flows over large pieces of tufa, which were

Delays leave Green Search for speeding Belt vulnerable hotspots

INSPECTORS appointed by the Government to examine THE county council is refusing to pay for the replacement Tonbridge and Malling’s Local Plan have announced a of flashing speed indicator signs on New Hythe Lane and further delay to the process. Lunsford Lane, Larkfield. They now want to lengthen their preliminary hearing from County councillor Trudy Dean paid for these originally out three days on May 19, 20 and 21 to include a further two of her Councillors Community Fund for local projects. days in June. Before she does so again, she wants to fund professional They say they need to explore legal issues, the criteria for speed surveys to identify hotspots throughout the area she house building site selection, and the Green Belt proposals. represents. This extends the time during which the borough is On her list already are New Hythe Lane, Lunsford Lane, vulnerable to house builders piling in with new applications, Kingfisher Road, Clare Lane, Wateringbury Road, Swan hoping to bypass local views before the land gets new Street, Town Hill, Swallow Road and St Leonards Street. Green Belt protection from development. East Malling and Larkfield Parish Council Report A20/New Hythe Lane junction works councillor Trudy Dean is seeking to have the now a bridleway, has also been marked THE works by KCC to amend the junction damaged bollards replaced. The county with a sign at both the Teston Road layout, mainly to remove the right hand council no longer uses these bollards, and and The Heath ends. One of the local bus lane into New Hythe Lane, are on so she needs their permission to use her landowners has cleared the cul dec sac of course. The project also involves amending KCC Community Fund to pay for them to Teston Road as far as their property and re- the alignment of the kerbs and resurfacing be reinstated. positioned the concrete blocks to prevent the pavements. vehicle access towards Kings Hill. The bus shelter outside Bell Court will Jubilee seat, A20 be taken across the road to the new stop THE parish council has passed to Ditton New parish councillor position, where the pavement is narrower Parish Council a metal seat to replace the THE parish council has co-opted Ray and the one currently on that side of the damaged one they removed on the Ditton/ Haffenden from Leybourne Park to fill a road will replace it. The idea of a shared Larkfield boundary on the A20. Ditton PC vacancy. This will be the first time there has footway and cycleway on the north side has now installed it where it looks very been a member for that area at New Hythe. of London Road was dropped as local smart. The original seat was provided on councillors felt the path between Larkfield a joint basis to mark the Queen’s Silver New trees Hotel and Morrisons was too narrow and Jubilee in 1977. THE parish council has ordered three used by many pedestrians. The next phase new standard trees to replace those at will be to replace the temporary traffic Warren Wood, East Malling East Malling Playing Fields, which were lights with a new set of permanent ones. PARISH councillors were pleased the plan felled a little while ago due to disease. It to build houses next to ancient woodland is also seeking a tree for Larkfield Active Wooden bollards, Leybourne Way - Warren Wood - on what was originally Retirement Association to provide at THE parish council has asked KCC to part of Heath Farm, was refused on appeal. Church Farm, Larkfield behind the main remove the damaged wooden bollards Kings Hill Parish Council has now renewed hall. and those lying on the verge opposite the registration of the sports areas in its Tesco. These were originally placed there parish plus the area of Warren Wood Bank closure to prevent lorries parking and churning up Nature Area with its footpath network in BARCLAYS Bank is closing at Larkfield on the verge while they visited Tesco. County this parish. The public footpath MR115, June 5. West Malling Parish Council Report The Parish Office is closed to personal be open weekends and school holidays be with the parish office by May 1 and callers until further notice. from then on. please remember to provide name, address Please ring 01732 870872 and age, if under 18. The competition will or email [email protected] VE Day street party be judged by a local artist. Drawings on an WEST Malling High Street and Community A4 piece of paper please. Reprieve for Thomas More Roman Orchard will be in party mood on the May We would welcome any contributions to Catholic Church Lucks Hill 8 Bank Holiday commemorating the 75th both the tombola and cake stall. Please THE Archbishop has confirmed that the Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in contact the clerk on 01732 870872 for Diocese no longer intends to close the 1945. The High Street, upper Swan Street more information about the day and how church on Lucks Hill. The future of the and Macey’s Meadow will be available you can help. Bring your picnics and enjoy rest of the site, including the Hermitage, for public picnicking, and period dress is an afternoon of celebration in the meadow. Nursery, Presbytery and car park, will be encouraged. Food sales, stalls, Spitfire fly discussed with the Diocese. The parish past, Vera Lynn-style entertainment and Volunteering at the meadow council has requested the listing of the children’s activities are already booked. Hold VOLUNTEER working party dates will be on church on the Community Asset Register, the date. March 21, 4th & 18th April 4 and 18, May though there is no longer an immediate 2, 16 and 30, and June 13 and 17. Each threat to the building . The listing means Blossom Day at Macey’s Meadow runs from 10 am to noon. Tools will be that any proposed sale or closure in future MACEY’S Meadow volunteers will be provided. All meet at the container by the would be frozen for six months to allow holding a VE Day-themed blossom event on railway line near the mixed woodland. the community to raise the funds to make Bank Holiday Friday, May 8, between 1pm a successful bid for the building and the and 4pm. Come along to the meadow to West Malling litter pick Hermitage will not be put up for sale until enjoy music, stalls, wildlife talks, children’s THIS will be on Saturday, April 25 Spring 2021. activities and, of course, cake. Bake a VE between 10 am and noon. Please meet Day-themed cake for our cake competition. at the Village Hall in Norman Road at Green Cafe Manor Park, West Malling Draw, paint or design a picture of the 10 am. All equipment will be provided. KCC is taking over the running of this cafe meadow for our art competition (feel free For more details contact the clerk on from the Easter holidays, and expects it to to give it a VE Day theme), all entries should 01732 870872.

LOCAL CONTACTS Supported by Trudy Dean, Malling Action Partnership chairman Pothole reporting – T: 08458 247800 E: [email protected] T: 01732 843 119 Travel Enquiries Citizens Advice Bureau – T: 01732 440488 Nu-Venture Buses – T: 01622 882288 Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Trains – T: 08457 484950 main switchboard – T: 01732 844522 Arriva Buses – T: 0871 200 22 33 IndependentIndependent Financial Financial Advice Advice RetirementRetirement SpecialistsSpecialists Providing advice on Company Pensions and ProvidingPersonal Pe ansidviocens on. Company Pensions (including Final Salary Schemes) and Personal Pensions. Also providing advice on Investments, Personal AlsProteo prctionovid (inglife cadovevicr e tcon.) , InEstatvestme / eInhnts,eritan Persocen Taaxl ProtPlanning,ection Wills, (life cPovewerrs e tofc.) Attorne, Estatey /a nInhd Territusatsn.ce Tax Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. We offer advice across a wide range of services 01622 391 444 including investments, savings, mortgages [email protected] W(inclue offdering adv Eqiuceit ya crossReleas ae )w andide protrangece tiofo ns.e Wrvei cesare 01622 391 444 inclcommittudinged inv to eputtingstments, clients savings, at th me ohrtgearta gofes and [email protected] proteverythingection. wWee d aro ean committedd to developing to pu ttinglong-term clients aret lationshipsthe heart o withf eve rythingour clients we. dThio ans isd achito eved by www.handffinH&F Financiala Limnciaitel.cdo.uk denevselopinguring that lo ng-termwe underst relationshipand the individus withal onuered s Granville House cofli eantchs. cliThient,s i sa ndac hievto impled ebmy eenntingsuring tailor thated we H&F Financial Limited ufinannderstandcial plans the to individ addressual tho neeseds needs. of each client, Granville Road and to implementing tailored financial plans to SuMaiitedston 1B e Mortgage or Equity Released from your home will be Frederick House asddrecureessd againthoses net iteds. Kent BrMEewer14 2B StreJ et Contact us for a free consultation M aidstone Ctoo ntalookc ta tu yso forur optiona free sco. nsultation to look at your options. Kent, ME14 1RY Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - No 778297 A company registered in England & Wales. Registered Company - No 10057458 Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - No 778297 A company registered in England & Wales. Registered Company - No 10057458

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18 Malling March 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Run’s £18.8k Head’s sudden death for hospice A CHARITY run raised more than £18,800 for the Heart of Kent Hospice. leaves schools shocked Maidstone Road Run took place at Cornwallis Academy TRIBUTES have been paid to an on Sunday, March 8. “inspirational and charismatic” Despite wet weather, hun- headteacher who has died after a dreds of volunteers showed heart attack. up to raise money for the hos- Darren Webb, who is pictured pice. with pupils, was executive head- A Heart of Kent Hospice teacher of the Coppice Primary spokesman said: “Thank you Partnership, which runs Loose to all the amazing runners and Coxheath primary schools in who took part in the Maid- Maidstone, and St Katherine’s in stone Road Run. In its sixth Snodland. He died on March 9. year, we had 624 registered The 45-year-old father was runners for this year’s run, crowned Top Headteacher at the with a total of 570 running on Kent Teacher of the Year awards the day itself. in 2017. “Despite the awful weather Chair of trustees Carole Hardy we’ve had recently, hundreds wrote in an email to parents: “It is came out to support the hos- with great sadness that I am email- pice. The event, to date, has ing to inform you that Darren wife Claire and his children at this ethos and values.” raised over £18,800 plus spon- Webb, our executive headteacher, very difficult time. Tributes have flooded in for Mr sorship from Millwood De- passed away late this afternoon. “You will understand how diffi- Webb since his death, from both signer Homes. With many “Darren was a charismatic and cult this will be for school staff parents and teachers. still raising money, we expect inspirational leader, whose values and children over the coming Parent Kirsty Briggs wrote: “It is this to rise. led us all to work towards the best weeks. such sad news about our wonder- “A special thanks go to all outcomes for all children in our “I know Darren would wish us ful headmaster. He was a won- the marshals and volunteers Trust. all to continue to offer the best for derful man and made such an who gave up their spare time “I know that you will join me in all the children and we strive to impact to our family and the com- to make the event a success. sending our condolences to his deliver his vision and uphold his munity. He will be sadly missed.” Quite simply, we could not do it without you.” Growing buddy scheme Appeal after crash injuries A PEDESTRIAN was hit by a car needs more volunteers near Mereworth. At around 6.10pm on Thursday, LAUNCHED in May 2019 to help February 20, a man in his 50s was elderly housebound members of the parish, the Larkfield Commu- standing next to a parked articu- nity Group Buddy Scheme has be- lated lorry in a layby on the A228 come a victim of its own success. Dorothy Malling Road between the junc- The scheme, started by Jackie Southgate tions with Tonbridge Road and Hirsch, matches volunteer “bud- looks Kent Street, when he was hit by a dies” with the isolated members of forward to white Ford Fiesta. the community, to provide some visits from The Fiesta left the scene and the social interaction and bring them her ‘buddy’, victim was taken to a local hospi- friendship and companionship. Judy tal with serious injuries. Jackie said: “It’s a befriending Barnsley Investigating officer, PC service. Our volunteers spend one Michael Potter said: “We would or two hours a week visiting to Malling and Ditton.” often the hardest part of the job,” like to hear from anybody who share a cup of tea and some time The NHS has recently become said Jackie. was driving along this stretch of together. It really does make a dif- involved, looking to the scheme to Dorothy Southgate (92) has been road at the time and witnessed help patients leaving hospital to welcoming Judy Barnsley to her ference to their lives, giving them the incident or whose dash cam something to look forward to.” live alone. More referrals are com- home in East Malling since August. might have caught an image of With the demise of Age Concern ing from care homes and relatives She said: “It’s a wonderful ser- in West Malling and more referrals of the elderly who are living alone. vice. I really look forward to Judy the Fiesta.” every week, the Buddy Scheme is When referred for a buddy, coming in. It’s therapeutic for both Anybody who can help should in desperate need of volunteers. memers are assessed for their gen- of us” said Judy. “I’d recommend call police on 01622 604 100, quot- She added: “We don’t want to eral condition and health, their in- it to anyone.” ing crime reference 46/35041/20 or turn anyone away. We’re now tting terests and hobbies, and matched Buddies need to be DBS checked Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. referrals from carers and social with a suitable companion. and have references. Anyone inter- Alternatively, it can be reported prescribers in Snodland, Kings Jackie said: “Finding the best ested can email Jackie at Larkfield using the online form at Hill, Aylesford, East and West possible match for a member is [email protected]. www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Malling March 2020 19 News downsmail.co.uk Keep your dogs under control WITH the lambing season about to start, dog owners are urged to understand the law and their responsibilities, as reports of livestock being injured and killed by dogs begins to rise. Leading rural insurer NFU Mu- just naivety,” said Hayley. “It’s a tual say there has been a shocking never-ending battle, but people increase in livestock worrying and just don’t realise what damage a 67% rise in claims over the last their pet can do. two years, at a cost of £1.6m. “We’ve got warning signs up ev- Its research revealed that more erywhere, on every footpath that than 80% of dog owners exercised their pets in the countryside, with passes fields the sheep graze in. over 60% letting them roam off the Nothing ever seems to work.” lead. A worrying 7% admitted And dogs don’t always have to their dogs had chased livestock. physically attack sheep to kill Hayley Edmonds owns a mixed them. Pregnant ewes can often die flock of 300 sheep near Headcorn from shock being worried by loose and is one of many farmers who dogs. have suffered livestock losses as a While it remains legal for any result of dog owners’ irresponsi- farmer to shoot a dog that is wor- bility. rying livestock, the National Sheep In one three-week period last year, eight of her flock were killed two lurchers chased them into a killed six of Hayley’s lambs. The Association recommends that and another 14 injured in attacks pond. dog owner had moved to the farmers only shoot dogs as a last by dogs. “It’s an awful sight to see, sheep country from town and thought resort. Dogs are counted as prop- She said: “In a separate incident after an attack – ghastly.” their garden was secure. erty, so shooting one could trigger we lost three from drowning after Two years ago, a domestic dog “I think a lot of the problem is a criminal damage claim. VE day party First Easter explained CELEBRATE VE Day at the vil- EVER wondered what the Easter lage hall in Leybourne from noon Story is all about and why Good Fri- to 4pm on May 8. day is “Good”? There will be a street party, buf- Now a team from the Maidstone fet lunch and fancy dress with churches is putting on a live outdoor prizes. The bar will be open and play about the first Easter in a little at 3pm, organisers will raise a known space at the back of Lock- toast to the heroes of WWII to meadow. mark exactly 75 years since Two outdoor performances owill Churchill announced the end of take place at Lockmeadow River- the war in Europe. side, Maidstone, at 11am and 3pm The cost is £2 per child and free on Sunday, March 29. for adults. Call 01732 873722 to In addition to the two outdoor book your tickets. Wine-tasting performances there will be a live stream feed of the performances to Tea and cake with Friends the Life church in Brewer Street, Maidstone, for those who want to A CHANCE to make friends over THE Friends of Aylesford Church tea and cake and to try different will be hosting a wine experience stay warm Creative director Kellie Edney (42), burden that Jesus had to bear crafts is offered by the Friendship event. Group in Aylesford. The event will take place at the who has been writing, directing and shows the vastness of who he is and performing Christian drama for 25 The group meets in the Brassey Brassey Centre at 7.30pm on Sat- puts our worries and doubts into years said: "Directing the Easter play perspective. Centre in Station Road, from 2- urday, March 28. is a huge, but exciting, challenge.” “My prayer is that there is at least 4pm usually on the fourth Tues- The evening will include a talk Adam Doggett (26), pictured, one aspect of the play that res- day of each month. Further from Lazare Morel, founder and who plays Jesus, added: “It’s the onates with each person who comes details are available from Janet on managing director of Maidstone- most challenging role I’ve taken on to see it, causing a fresh revelation 01622 710083. based Veblen Wines, experts in in the 18 years I’ve been perform- of who Jesus is, what he did and servicing, managing and trading ing. Even the smallest glimpse of the what it means for us.” interests in fine wine. Craft fair The wine-tasting evening also DITTON Heritage Centre will be incudes vegan wines and non-al- hosting a craft and hobby fair coholic alternatives. Learn tai chi at village centre from 1.30-4.30pm on Sunday, Cheese, biscuits and nibbles TAI Chi classes are being held The class is suitable for all June 7. will also be provided, and a wine at Aylesford Village Commu- ages, and participants can sit There will be over 30 stalls of raffle will also take place. nity Centre. down for all or just parts of the crafts and refreshments will be Tickets cost £5 per person. All The next class will be held class. Beginners are especially available. tickets must be bought in ad- on April 2, from 11.15am to welcome. Entry costs £1 for adults and vance. For more information con- noon. Tickets cost £6 per person. free for children. Proceeds will tact Aline on 07771636872. support Ditton Heritage Centre.

20 Malling March 2020 News downsmail.co.uk Keep your dogs under control Help is at hand Parkfoot WITH the lambing season about to start, dog owners are urged to understand the law and their responsibilities, as reports of livestock being injured and killed by dogs begins to rise. Leading rural insurer NFU Mu- just naivety,” said Hayley. “It’s a tual say there has been a shocking never-ending battle, but people increase in livestock worrying and just don’t realise what damage a 67% rise in claims over the last their pet can do. two years, at a cost of £1.6m. “We’ve got warning signs up ev- Its research revealed that more erywhere, on every footpath that than 80% of dog owners exercised their pets in the countryside, with passes fields the sheep graze in. over 60% letting them roam off the Nothing ever seems to work.” lead. A worrying 7% admitted And dogs don’t always have to their dogs had chased livestock. physically attack sheep to kill Hayley Edmonds owns a mixed them. Pregnant ewes can often die flock of 300 sheep near Headcorn from shock being worried by loose and is one of many farmers who dogs. have suffered livestock losses as a While it remains legal for any result of dog owners’ irresponsi- farmer to shoot a dog that is wor- bility. rying livestock, the National Sheep In one three-week period last Open 24 year, eight of her flock were killed two lurchers chased them into a killed six of Hayley’s lambs. The Association recommends that and another 14 injured in attacks pond. dog owner had moved to the farmers only shoot dogs as a last by dogs. “It’s an awful sight to see, sheep country from town and thought resort. Dogs are counted as prop- She said: “In a separate incident after an attack – ghastly.” their garden was secure. erty, so shooting one could trigger Hours a day we lost three from drowning after Two years ago, a domestic dog “I think a lot of the problem is a criminal damage claim. VE day party Open 24 hours, 365 days a year First Easter explained 265 London Road, West Malling, ME19 5AE CELEBRATE VE Day at the vil- www.parkfoot.net 01732 840000 EVER wondered what the Easter lage hall in Leybourne from noon Story is all about and why Good Fri- to 4pm on May 8. day is “Good”? There will be a street party, buf- Now a team from the Maidstone fet lunch and fancy dress with churches is putting on a live outdoor prizes. The bar will be open and play about the first Easter in a little at 3pm, organisers will raise a known space at the back of Lock- toast to the heroes of WWII to meadow. mark exactly 75 years since Two outdoor performances owill Churchill announced the end of TAKE AWAY MENU - take place at Lockmeadow River- the war in Europe. side, Maidstone, at 11am and 3pm The cost is £2 per child and free FOR COLLECTION on Sunday, March 29. for adults. Call 01732 873722 to In addition to the two outdoor book your tickets. Please call to place an order Wine-tasting performances there will be a live stream feed of the performances to Tea and cake with Friends the Life church in Brewer Street, A CHANCE to make friends over Maidstone, for those who want to If we don’t get to answer your call, please leave a message THE Friends of Aylesford Church tea and cake and to try different stay warm for a call back (not an order) and we will return your call as will be hosting a wine experience crafts is offered by the Friendship Creative director Kellie Edney (42), burden that Jesus had to bear soon as possible. event. Group in Aylesford. The event will take place at the who has been writing, directing and shows the vastness of who he is and performing Christian drama for 25 The group meets in the Brassey Brassey Centre at 7.30pm on Sat- puts our worries and doubts into This is very new for us, so please bear with us years said: "Directing the Easter play perspective. Centre in Station Road, from 2- urday, March 28. is a huge, but exciting, challenge.” “My prayer is that there is at least 4pm usually on the fourth Tues- The evening will include a talk Here at The Block we o er freshly cooked delicious food Adam Doggett (26), pictured, one aspect of the play that res- day of each month. Further from Lazare Morel, founder and made from fresh quality ingredients. who plays Jesus, added: “It’s the onates with each person who comes details are available from Janet on managing director of Maidstone- most challenging role I’ve taken on to see it, causing a fresh revelation 01622 710083. based Veblen Wines, experts in in the 18 years I’ve been perform- of who Jesus is, what he did and We Dry Age our locally sourced meat, butchered on site (of servicing, managing and trading ing. Even the smallest glimpse of the what it means for us.” course!) so that it can be as fresh as the day we make it, from interests in fine wine. Craft fair The Butcher’s Block is a laid back country style Bar and the kitchen straight onto your plate. The wine-tasting evening also DITTON Heritage Centre will be incudes vegan wines and non-al- hosting a craft and hobby fair Restaurant, located only 5 miles from Maidstone and coholic alternatives. Learn tai chi at village centre from 1.30-4.30pm on Sunday, Rochester, nestled in the beautiful village of Burham. Cheese, biscuits and nibbles TAI Chi classes are being held The class is suitable for all June 7. will also be provided, and a wine at Aylesford Village Commu- ages, and participants can sit There will be over 30 stalls of raffle will also take place. nity Centre. down for all or just parts of the crafts and refreshments will be Serving hours:- Tickets cost £5 per person. All The next class will be held class. Beginners are especially available. Tuesday - Saturday 18:00-21:00 tickets must be bought in ad- on April 2, from 11.15am to welcome. Entry costs £1 for adults and Wednesday - Friday 12:00-14:30 vance. For more information con- noon. Tickets cost £6 per person. free for children. Proceeds will Saturday 12:00-4:30 tact Aline on 07771636872. support Ditton Heritage Centre.

Malling March 2020 21 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Flu jab fear MORE than 1,000 medical staff at the Maidstone and Tunbridge GP shortage ‘driving Wells Trust have not had a flu jab. Public Health England says about 1,400 of 4,600 staff have not had the vaccination. patients to use A&E’ The Society for Acute Medicine says it is concerning how few INCREASING problems and pressures facing NHS services in Maidstone have been immunised, although the trust's uptake was a little are evident in reports before the budget-holding NHS West Kent Clinical higher than the national average. Medical staff are encouraged to Commissioning Group. have the jab and NHS trusts are Most worrying for patients is the covered by middle-grade doctors. lays when patients are taken to financially rewarded for hitting lack of GPs, with Maidstone now The CCG reports emergency at- hospital, with some topping 60 80% targets. suffering among the most serious tendances to Maidstone A&E last minutes due to pressures in hospi- shortages in the UK. November totalled 6,456, up 12% tal. Improvements are being made Readers increasingly express on 2019. It believes challenged pa- and the CCG is monitoring an ac- School plans concerns to the Downs Mail about tients see this as “the faster alter- tion plan. THE CCG is recommending its difficulties making appointments native”. l STROKE SERVICES: Concerns primary care team works more at GP practices. Hospital bed occupancy in over delivery of best stroke practice closely with GP practices to in- Some are forced to join early- November was 95.3% at Maid- at Maidstone Hospital have grown. crease school provision for under morning queues in winter weather stone and 95.7% at Tunbridge Due to shortages on the consul- 18s. to access surgeries and book ap- Wells against the NHS-recom- tants’ rota, not all patients are seen One idea is to arrange drop-in pointments. mended 85%. quickly enough and “compliance sessions with paramedics. The CCG, which has identified Emergency department perfor- seems to be on a downward Engagement with schools and the need for an additional surgery mance has suffered and has been trend”. A new action plan is in public health authorities is also in central Maidstone due to rapid below plan for four months. But it place. recommended “to discourage un- population growth, has taken var- is still in the top 25% trusts nation- Dr Bob Bowes, CCG chairman, necessary recommendations for ious steps to reduce pressure on ally, and performs significantly told the Downs Mail: “NHS ser- A&E attendances”. GPs, including building up profes- better than most. vices across the country are under sional help in surgeries. The CCG is organising quality increasing pressure due to rising The problem is driving more pa- assurance visits “as a matter of ur- demand, partly because of our age- Clinic review tients directly to hospital A&E, and gency to investigate concerns” and ing population with people living VASCULAR services (including it is revealed that these depart- says it will work with the hospital with conditions such as diabetes, aortic aneurisms) in Medway and ments are now facing a doctor trust to provide an efficient service. COPD and heart disease. More live east Kent are being reviewed. shortage in their own internal GP- l AMBULANCES: The CCG also with dementia. The move is necessary due to a streaming services. reports continuing problems with “We work closely with local shortage of specialist consultants This service is required to have ambulances still missing national providers to ensure services meet at Medway Hospital. at least one GP on duty at both hos- targets for reaching patients. One changing needs and high quality There is a plan for a temporary pitals. A large number of shifts are cause is ambulance handover de- care.” inpatient hub at Kent and Canter- bury Hospital. Non-arterial care will also be delivered at Medway Maritime Hospital to ensure, Cash for youth mental health where possible, patients receive A MENTAL health charity has been care close to home. given a donation to help deliver support and guidance for young Head of CCG people at risk of turning to criminal- SENIOR officer of the new Kent ity. and Medway Clinical Commis- The new programme at Maid- sioning Group when it is formed stone and Mid-Kent Mind aims to in April from the existing eight tackle the relationships between Kent CCGs will be Wilf Williams, gang affiliation, knife crime and currently Director of National poor mental health. Health and Human Services prac- Over the course of a five-week pro- tice KPMG in Australia. gramme, funded by the Office of the He has previously held two Kent Police Crime Commissioner and the Home Office, participants will chief executive NHS roles in Can- look at how to better cope with and terbury. CEO Julie Blackmore (centre) with members of the Mind youth team process feelings of anger. The scheme has been designed programmes which all tackle differ- schools, so we are eager to see how Acute unit with young people who are of sec- ent problem areas. taking the project to Open Access THE new Acute Assessment Unit ondary school age. “The time has come, we feel, to may benefit even more young peo- at Maidstone Hospital now nears The course has been rolled out broaden the impact of these pro- ple.” completion and should open within a number of Kent schools, but grammes and that is where working Two free five-week courses are soon. MMK Mind are now looking at open- with partners like Youth Resilience open to young people in the Maid- ing these courses up to the wider This will enable further assess- UK comes in, enabling us to tackle stone area. Both courses will begin public. ment and monitoring of patients specific areas of need within the on the February 25. Julie Blackmore, CEO, said: “Maid- with urgent conditions who have local community. For more details, visit www.maid- stone and Mid-Kent Mind has devel- “We’ve already seen a great re- stonemind.org/mind-knife-knife- been referred by a GP or the oped a wealth of youth support sponse for this programme within crime-course-kent. emergency department.

22 Malling March 2020 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Flu jab fear MORE than 1,000 medical staff at Call for the the Maidstone and Tunbridge GP shortage ‘driving Wells Trust have not had a flu jab. Public Health England says about 1,400 of 4,600 staff have not had the vaccination. patients to use A&E’ The Society for Acute Medicine says it is concerning how few INCREASING problems and pressures facing NHS services in Maidstone have been immunised, although the trust's uptake was a little are evident in reports before the budget-holding NHS West Kent Clinical CollectionPrompt higher than the national average. Commissioning Group. Medical staff are encouraged to Fast have the jab and NHS trusts are Most worrying for patients is the covered by middle-grade doctors. lays when patients are taken to ARE YOU WORKING Delivery financially rewarded for hitting lack of GPs, with Maidstone now The CCG reports emergency at- hospital, with some topping 60 D.TD.T 80% targets. suffering among the most serious tendances to Maidstone A&E last minutes due to pressures in hospi- shortages in the UK. November totalled 6,456, up 12% tal. Improvements are being made FROM HOME? Readers increasingly express on 2019. It believes challenged pa- and the CCG is monitoring an ac- SKIPSKIP HIREHIRE School plans concerns to the Downs Mail about tients see this as “the faster alter- tion plan. THE CCG is recommending its difficulties making appointments native”. l STROKE SERVICES: Concerns Over 20 Years Experience ….and require printing? primary care team works more at GP practices. 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The move is necessary due to a streaming services. reports continuing problems with “We work closely with local 01622 843511 01732 870483 shortage of specialist consultants This service is required to have ambulances still missing national providers to ensure services meet or email: [email protected] at least one GP on duty at both hos- targets for reaching patients. One changing needs and high quality 01233 623721 at Medway Hospital. Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ 27 High Street, West Malling, ME19 6QH There is a plan for a temporary pitals. A large number of shifts are cause is ambulance handover de- care.” inpatient hub at Kent and Canter- bury Hospital. Non-arterial care will also be delivered at Medway Medway Blinds & Curtains Maritime Hospital to ensure, Cash for youth mental health DO YOU NEED where possible, patients receive A MENTAL health charity has been care close to home. 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Malling March 2020 23

Maidstone Weald October 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk

Obituaries Lilian Rootes in the business. Ian her children, grandchildren Claire, Darran served as a director and Francesca and great-grandchildren LILIAN Rootes (96) lived in Loose for 30 from 1970 until 2019, Sofia and Joshua. years after a lengthy period in the Weald running the of Kent as a child and young woman. company with his Born Lilian Agnes brother Paul after Hazel Hambleton Kilner to their father stood HAZEL Marie Hambleton has died at the farmworking parents down in 1990. she moved with her age of 73, following a long battle with Paul said: “Ian was Huntington’s disease with which she was family, living in a parish councillor in Ryarsh, Laddingford, diagnosed in 2009. Linton for around 20 She was born Hazel Minchington in Collier Street and years. He played hockey as a winger for Nettlestead. She Devon, and after leaving school, took a job Marden and had a trial for Kent. He with the Royal Exchange Insurance Co in began work in turned out for Mote Cricket Club’s Exeter, later Guardian Royal Exchange. service to the Champagne XI and wasa keen golfer.” She and husband David moved to Chambers family of Nephew Michael added: “My uncle had Maidstone in 1971 where she worked for Collier Street with a strong sense of humour. He enjoyed trips insurance brokers, Willis Corroon. duties which included babysitting their to London for good food and drink, and She took redundancy in 1997 and went young daughters (one of whom attended time in pubs including the Three Chimneys on to work as a carer at the Grove Lilian’s funeral) and delivering meat on and Lord Raglan. He was also a motoring residential home in Bower Mount Road. her bicycle. enthusiast and owned some fine cars.” Lilian married farmworker Donald She remained there until 2004, when she Rootes, and the couple became parents to took up voluntary work with Age UK. Lyn and Sheila. Lilian did farmwork and Jean Brown David said: ”Hazel loved people and worked as a housekeeper for the Vinson being in the centre of things. People family. Later, she was employed as a carer JEAN Margaret Brown (94) died 17 days remember her as a very kind person and at the Greensted Care Home in short of her 95th birthday. her smile and sense of humour are still Wateringbury. Her husband worked as a She lived in the Shepway and Senacre remembered by those who knew her. bakery delivery man and as a drayman. areas of Maidstone from 1948 until her “She enjoyed cooking and travel to Sheila said: “My mother was kind and death. Born Jean European countries. Hazel’s brother who generous and would help whoever she Margaret Medhurst lived in Vancouver, was also diagnosed could. After she retired, she worked for 18 in Trottiscliffe, she with Huntington’s and died in 2011. years as volunteer in the Heart of Kent was one of nine “Hazel finally moved into a care home Hospice coffee shop. She left at the age of siblings. where she received excellent care.” 92, by which time she had earned a few She sang in the long service medals. She loved gardening, local church choir in knitting and reading.” the 1930s and Pat Laws worked in domestic Lilian,who was widowed in 1996, leaves PAT Laws (92) will be remembered for her service in the village her daughters, grandchildren: Stephen, tireless work in the community. until taking up Mark and Sarah and great-grandchildren She moved to Bearsted in 1963, from munitions work during the war at Tilling Josh, Tom, Ben and Sam. Hampshire, and Stevens. Jean later married Bernard joined Bearsted and Brown. The couple were married for 67 Thurnham WI. In years, but in the early years, Bernard’s Ian Firmin 1966, she helped start Army duties kept him away from home. IAN Maurice Firmin (72), from Linton, Madginford Schools Jean and Bernard were parents to was a director of local haulage and PTA, becoming Malcolm, Andrew and Denise. property firm, Firmins. secretary, then Jean took on various jobs after raising Born in Linton and educated at Kings chairwoman. In 1970, her children, working at The Bull on School, Rochester, where his prowess as a she became president Gabriel’s Hill, as a receptionist at Mote bowler earned him a mention in Wisden of the WI. She also Park Leisure Centre and cleaning work. Cricketers’ Almanac, Ian spent a gap year started monthly Malcolm said: “My mother and Bernard in Australia before joining the family firm group walks. travelled widely, making five trips to see at Wares Farm. In 1974, she started Bearsted Age me in Canada” His early days were spent in a range of Concern, and became an executive of Jean, who was widowed in 2012, leaves jobs, but he gradually took a leading role Maidstone Age Concern. She also found time to start a pop-in centre/lunch club at the Methodist Chapel. In 1977, she formed the Age Concern Foot Clinic at Bearsted Surgery. She was elected on to Bearsted Parish Council in 1978 and continued until 1991. In the 1980s, Pat worked on the steering committee to create Madginford Hall. She Wills | Probate | Powers of attorney | Funeral plans and husband Patrick helped form Bearsted and Thurnham Tennis and Bowls Clubs. • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed Pat received the Mynn Award from DipPFS MSWW Bearsted Parish Council for her service to the community. Pat leaves three sons, one grandson and 01622 720985 www.camrasswills.co.uk one great granddaughter with another great grandchild due.

There is no charge for our obituary service. Call Neil Nixon on 01622 630422 or email [email protected]

24 Malling March 2020 CALL THE EXPERTS

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Malling March 2020 25 downsmail.co.uk

Parish Councils Birling how the work of councillors could shape build-outs or street lighting. the community. Pond The silt had been scooped out and Smart motorway Cllr Hohler confirmed Antisocial behaviour A member of the more work was needed to the rushes and that the motorway would undergo a safety public asked whether any measures were the bank. audit before opening. being put in place for Halloween 2020 to The Pound A resident had agreed to look Highways consultation A member of the deter further antisocial behaviour. It was after the site. She had done some tidying public raised concerns about the bank that agreed to arrange a public meeting before but had been unable to carry out much spills earth on to the pavement, forcing Easter to develop a strategy for dealing work due to the weather. pedestrians to walk in the road. The parish with antisocial behaviour. Recreation ground The moss on the play council would report the obstruction to Waitrose It was agreed to contact local area surface was due to be treated. Cllr KCC. The potholes on Stangate Road media organisations to raise the issue of the Marchant would carry out weed-killing would be reported. lack of pedestrian access at the front of the treatment on the area outside the play area Police volunteer The article in The Waitrose store. by the youth shelter and monkey bars. Pilgrims was noted. Cllr Walker was Christmas trees Cllr Colman raised Cllrs Taylor and Jones had secured the thanked for publishing the advertisement, concerns about Christmas trees being left memorial bench with hooks. but to date, no interest had been received. in Emerald Walk that had not been Trees Cllr Marchant had completed the Litter pick It was decided to hold a litter collected for recycling by the council. work to the oak tree and would carry out pick on March 14, as part of the Great the work to the trees on Teston Road by the British Spring Clean. recreation ground. Maintenance Regarding the quote for Offham Clerk’s hours It was agreed that the clerk refurbishment of the village sign, the clerk should be paid overtime for her extra was investigating other companies that Street cleaning TMBC had cleared the flytipping from the lay-by on Teston Road hours. Councillors would review the hours might be able to refurbish the noticeboard. in a few months and consider how to VE Day Cllr Nevill was looking into what and emptied the litter bins. They reported that they had been concentrating on sorting reduce the workload. could be done to commemorate the Spitfire crash site. out the refuse collection service. It was noted that the roads had been swept, but this was done on a wet day when the Ryarsh Ditton vacuum could not lift all the debris. Every Pitch marking Members had considered gutter on Church Road was blocked and a the amended contract with new pitch Vacancy The clerk said she had been councillor had tried to clear these. The marking fees from Landscape Services, and contacted by a resident interested in joining clerk was asked to contact TMBC. it was approved. The clerk would liaise the council and that resident was in Litter pick The Offham Society was thanked with the football team about the fees. attendance as an observer. At the end of the for completing a litter pick. It was agreed Website Regarding the new parish council meeting, it was agreed that Mr Rook would that Cllr Williams would register the parish website, members considered the submit a brief resume to the clerk and council to take part in the Great British information and quotes and approved the could be co-opted on to the council at the Spring Clean. move to Cantium Business Solutions, who next meeting. Website Kent County Council agreed to are owned by KCC. Ditton Place Cllr Mulcuck asked if there fund the website for the first year for Flooding There had been a recurrence of was an update on the requested site parishes who had used KCC’s existing flooding on to the school playground, also meeting about the trees in Ditton Place. The website provider and moving to the new threatening homes in Birling Road which clerk said this application had been refused KCC website provider. The clerk would had been flooded in July. Kent Highways so a site meeting was no longer required. change the photos on the website and on the investigated and found blockages in the Waste services There were still problems parish council’s facebook page. culverts. They were issuing enforcement with some properties that did not face onto Christmas lights Cllr Rickett would source orders to landowners to clear the culverts the road. Residents should report problems new lights for the Quintain, which are to prevent further problems. online as they would be registered with the battery operated and have a timer. Cllr Sandy Lane This is signposted as a Quiet council. Marchant said the lights on the oak tree Lane but the designation was no longer School parking There had been problems needed replacing. valid. There is no footpath and speed is de- in December but the infant school was Fundraising It was felt that an event such restricted, making it dangerous for taking positive action to deal with this. as a race night helped to bring the village pedestrians and cyclists. Kent Highways Community warden Sue Absolon had together, councillors wanted to ensure would not fund a traffic order to reduce the spoken to the borough council about reserves were spend on meaningful speed as there was no crash data to back it asbestos by garages. She had been projects. Sources of funding for a large up. The parish could consider putting up supporting residents with dementia and project, such as replacing play equipment, signs and the clerk would look into the cost. helping out at a carers’ café in East Malling. were discussed. Ryarsh Park Cars travelling at speed or Dogs in quarry Following reports of dogs Landfill site The clerk was asked to report being driven badly were discussed. There being ill after being in the quarry, the that the grass verge outside the site needed was a discussion about additional signs warden had carried out a detailed search cutting, ivy was growing, the trees were and speed humps. The estate had not been and found some discarded tissues and overhanging and the fence was broken in a adopted and was still under Redrow’s some burnt tin foil. She had seen nothing few places. control. The parish council would discuss else that could be harmful. Village hall The committee continued to with Redrow the possibility of signs at the Traffic lights There was a discussion about work hard raising funds from film nights. entrance and posts at the end of the the frequency of the lights. It was noted They were looking at putting regular footpath to stop cars driving on it. that they appeared to be working more savings into a roof fund. Electrical checks Highways The parish council was working effectively. The meeting heard that the new had been carried out, with some work closely with Birling Parish Council on signals would be much more advanced undertaken. traffic calming measures. These include and react to the traffic. Environmental enhancement Cllr changing priorities from Roughetts Road Marchant asked about solar-powered street down to the Street so that those travelling lamps so that speed ramps could be from Woodgate Road would have to stop. Kings Hill installed to slow traffic down. Traffic Another proposal was to remove the first Co-option The clerk reported that no calming was discussed and it was build-out past the school towards Birling – applications had been received by the suggested that changing the gateways residents were generally in favour, as was deadline. It was agreed to advertise the could help. Survey responses showed the school head. A vehicle-activated speed vacancies with more information about residents did not want speed humps, sign was suggested, as well as signs on the

26 Malling March 2020 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Parish Councils Parish Councils Birling how the work of councillors could shape build-outs or street lighting. build-outs between Ryarsh and Birling. acquired Bramble Park. No planning removal of the unit from the village hall the community. Pond The silt had been scooped out and School crossing The school is keen to have application had been received. A petition foyer. Smart motorway Cllr Hohler confirmed Antisocial behaviour A member of the more work was needed to the rushes and a safe place for children to cross and was had been received from residents. It was Police report A crime report was that the motorway would undergo a safety public asked whether any measures were the bank. considering a school crossing patrol. agreed to send a copy of the petition to circulated. It was stated that a motorbike audit before opening. being put in place for Halloween 2020 to The Pound A resident had agreed to look Village hall Things were running well, but borough planners and councillors. had been seen being ridden on the playing Highways consultation A member of the deter further antisocial behaviour. It was after the site. She had done some tidying no volunteers had come forward. There Bollard request There had been a request field. The parish council had had no public raised concerns about the bank that agreed to arrange a public meeting before but had been unable to carry out much were always odd jobs to be done, the work for a bollard in Taylors Lane. The clerk response from the police about damage to spills earth on to the pavement, forcing Easter to develop a strategy for dealing work due to the weather. is unpaid but a good way of meeting had carried out measurements and was the wall outside the village hall. PCSO pedestrians to walk in the road. The parish with antisocial behaviour. Recreation ground The moss on the play people. The new website was in hand. waiting to hear from KCC, which had Stanley suggested ringing for an update. council would report the obstruction to Waitrose It was agreed to contact local area surface was due to be treated. Cllr Precept It was agreed to keep the total suggested that the pavement was not Red Hill Cllr Marks spoke about the KCC. The potholes on Stangate Road media organisations to raise the issue of the Marchant would carry out weed-killing precept for 2020/21 the same as 2019/20 at wide enough for bollards, and that a trief repairs to the building at the corner of Red would be reported. lack of pedestrian access at the front of the treatment on the area outside the play area £25,769. Due to a reduction in band D kerb should be considered. The clerk had Hill. It was understood the borough Police volunteer The article in The Waitrose store. by the youth shelter and monkey bars. properties, this would mean an increase asked for costs. council had taken over the repairs under Pilgrims was noted. Cllr Walker was Christmas trees Cllr Colman raised Cllrs Taylor and Jones had secured the from £65.72 to £69.62 per property. Addington Lane Flooding on the road emergency building regulations. Cllr thanked for publishing the advertisement, concerns about Christmas trees being left memorial bench with hooks. required major works. A drainage survey Marks would write to the borough council but to date, no interest had been received. in Emerald Walk that had not been Trees Cllr Marchant had completed the was due to be carried out. Budget 2020/21 The breakdown of the final Litter pick It was decided to hold a litter collected for recycling by the council. work to the oak tree and would carry out Trottiscliffe Vigo Lane Drainage works had been budget showed the precept would be pick on March 14, as part of the Great the work to the trees on Teston Road by the £93,811, a drop of about 4% on the previous Footpaths Three members of the public arranged and cancelled for Vigo Hill. The British Spring Clean. recreation ground. year. The final budget was agreed. expressed their concern about accessing drains and culverts were not coping with Maintenance Regarding the quote for Offham Clerk’s hours It was agreed that the clerk the wet weather. The clerk was asked to Speed surveys It was agreed to ask KCC refurbishment of the village sign, the clerk footpaths from Pinesfield Lane to the for a survey on Bow Road just after the Street cleaning TMBC had cleared the should be paid overtime for her extra chase KCC for necessary surveys and was investigating other companies that church. It was suggested that walkers entrance to Phoenix Drive but before the flytipping from the lay-by on Teston Road hours. Councillors would review the hours remedial works. might be able to refurbish the noticeboard. using the diverted route following the zebra crossing, and the A26 on the and emptied the litter bins. They reported in a few months and consider how to Post Another post had been knocked VE Day Cllr Nevill was looking into what temporary closure of MR194 and MR185 approach to Canon Lane. Each survey that they had been concentrating on sorting reduce the workload. down opposite The George. The clerk had could be done to commemorate the Spitfire were meeting some resistance. There was would cost the parish about £400. out the refuse collection service. It was reported this. crash site. also concern about parking at Coldrum Village hall damage A quote of £1,690 to noted that the roads had been swept, but Stones. The National Trust car park was repair the wall had been received from this was done on a wet day when the Ryarsh full during certain events, resulting in Birkby Construction. The wall was not vacuum could not lift all the debris. Every Pitch marking Members had considered Wateringbury Ditton cars blocking the narrow approach road. insured. It was agreed to accept the quote. gutter on Church Road was blocked and a the amended contract with new pitch Police report There had been an attempt Co-option Mrs Lin Simons, who had Vacancy The clerk said she had been Church handrail The chairman referred to councillor had tried to clear these. The marking fees from Landscape Services, and to break into a car in Church Lane. Two previously resigned, was put forward for contacted by a resident interested in joining an email about a new handrail at the clerk was asked to contact TMBC. it was approved. The clerk would liaise suitcases has been stolen from the boot of co-option. All voted in favour and she was the council and that resident was in entrance to the church. The cost to the Litter pick The Offham Society was thanked with the football team about the fees. a vehicle in Taylors Lane. A trailer had duly elected. attendance as an observer. At the end of the church from Yalding Forge would be for completing a litter pick. It was agreed Website Regarding the new parish council been stolen from a barn in Park Road, The Orpines The contractor wanted to meeting, it was agreed that Mr Rook would £2,434, and the funds available were £500. that Cllr Williams would register the parish website, members considered the Addington. revise condition 6 of the landscaping submit a brief resume to the clerk and It was suggested that the parish council council to take part in the Great British information and quotes and approved the Village hall The committee had agreed to scheme. Residents had signed a petition could be co-opted on to the council at the might consider a donation. It was Spring Clean. move to Cantium Business Solutions, who install entrance and exit signs for the car opposing the changes. Terracing and next meeting. confirmed there was £100 in the donations Website Kent County Council agreed to are owned by KCC. park to help with parking. They were also planting had been replaced by motorway- Ditton Place Cllr Mulcuck asked if there budget that could be used. fund the website for the first year for Flooding There had been a recurrence of looking to improve lighting at the style barriers and trees would be planted was an update on the requested site Village stocks Chris Chaplin, who had parishes who had used KCC’s existing flooding on to the school playground, also entrance to the hall. Trees had been 4m down so that they could not be seen refurbished the lock-up door, had reported meeting about the trees in Ditton Place. The website provider and moving to the new threatening homes in Birling Road which clerk said this application had been refused moved in the parking area next to the clearly. Cllr Tripp asked the council to that the stocks needed treatment as the KCC website provider. The clerk would had been flooded in July. Kent Highways school and staff at the school seemed to support residents in ensuring the original wood was splitting. He had quoted £170. so a site meeting was no longer required. change the photos on the website and on the investigated and found blockages in the Waste services There were still problems be using the car park. plans were adhered to. Members voted in Cllr Simons suggested that the Friends of parish council’s facebook page. culverts. They were issuing enforcement Community bid The Trosley Heritage favour and Cllr Marks would compile Wateringbury might carry out the work. with some properties that did not face onto Christmas lights Cllr Rickett would source orders to landowners to clear the culverts the road. Residents should report problems Group had exchanged contracts on the comments to be sent to the borough Village fete Two quotes had been obtained new lights for the Quintain, which are to prevent further problems. Plough Inn and completion was due. The council. for toilet hire. A vote was taken and it was online as they would be registered with the battery operated and have a timer. Cllr Sandy Lane This is signposted as a Quiet council. new tenants were planning to open a Pollution monitor Crispin Kennard of the agreed to accept the quote of £531 plus VAT Marchant said the lights on the oak tree Lane but the designation was no longer restaurant, which is due to open in May. borough council had reported that the from Four Jays. School parking There had been problems needed replacing. valid. There is no footpath and speed is de- in December but the infant school was Defibrillator The monthly check had pollution monitor showed no exceedance Allotments Letters had gone to seven Fundraising It was felt that an event such restricted, making it dangerous for been carried out. of the hourly limits for nitrogen oxide for plotholders about the condition of their taking positive action to deal with this. as a race night helped to bring the village pedestrians and cyclists. Kent Highways Community warden Sue Absolon had Bramble Park There had been no updates the year so far, and had suggested a allotments. Three would retain, three had together, councillors wanted to ensure would not fund a traffic order to reduce the on whether Cavendish Education had meeting with the parish council to discuss been given up and one had not replied. spoken to the borough council about reserves were spend on meaningful speed as there was no crash data to back it asbestos by garages. She had been projects. Sources of funding for a large up. The parish could consider putting up A BLUE Ford Transit van, registration Crime reports supporting residents with dementia and project, such as replacing play equipment, signs and the clerk would look into the cost. helping out at a carers’ café in East Malling. YP18***, was stolen from a car park in High were discussed. Ryarsh Park Cars travelling at speed or Street, Aylesford. Neighbourhood Watch Dogs in quarry Following reports of dogs Landfill site The clerk was asked to report being driven badly were discussed. There A yellow Yamaha motorbike, KKL4*** being ill after being in the quarry, the that the grass verge outside the site needed was a discussion about additional signs Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police was stolen from a garden in Holborough warden had carried out a detailed search cutting, ivy was growing, the trees were and speed humps. The estate had not been Road, Snodland. and found some discarded tissues and overhanging and the fence was broken in a adopted and was still under Redrow’s A handbag was stolen from a vehicle in in New Hythe Lane, Larkfield. They stole A secured bicycle was stolen in New some burnt tin foil. She had seen nothing few places. control. The parish council would discuss Cobdown Close, Ditton. the spare wheel and an iPod. else that could be harmful. Village hall The committee continued to with Redrow the possibility of signs at the Hythe Lane, Larkfield. Six men in a Ford Transit van stole fence A Carrera mountain bike was stolen Traffic lights There was a discussion about work hard raising funds from film nights. entrance and posts at the end of the Thieves broke into a commercial panels from a premises in Mills Road, outside a supermarket in Alexander Grove, the frequency of the lights. It was noted They were looking at putting regular footpath to stop cars driving on it. property in Robin Hood Lane, Aylesford Aylesford. Kings Hill. that they appeared to be working more savings into a roof fund. Electrical checks Highways The parish council was working and stolen tools from the greenhouse. A wheel was stolen from a Vauxhall A black Peugeot Kisbee motorbike was effectively. The meeting heard that the new had been carried out, with some work closely with Birling Parish Council on A battery charger was stolen from the Corsa in a car park in High Street, East stolen in Kingfisher Road, Larkfield. signals would be much more advanced undertaken. traffic calming measures. These include garage of a home in Teston Road, Offham. Malling. A black Ford Kuga Titanium, HK12*** and react to the traffic. Environmental enhancement Cllr changing priorities from Roughetts Road A Suzuki Carry van, registration EK55 Thieves broke into a commercial was stolen from a car park in East Street, Marchant asked about solar-powered street down to the Street so that those travelling ***, was stolen from a driveway in Hill property and stole four catalytic convertors Snodland. lamps so that speed ramps could be from Woodgate Road would have to stop. Chase, Aylesford. from vehicles in Wood Close, Aylesford. A log-splitting machine was stolen from Kings Hill installed to slow traffic down. Traffic Another proposal was to remove the first The window of a property was damaged The catalytic converter was stolen from a a driveway in St Leonards Street, West Co-option The clerk reported that no calming was discussed and it was build-out past the school towards Birling – in Woodlands Road, Ditton. Toyota Auris in Tower View, Kings Hill. Malling. applications had been received by the suggested that changing the gateways residents were generally in favour, as was A ladder, electrical tools and diesel were Number plates were stolen from a Nissan A Samsung tablet and a mobile phone deadline. It was agreed to advertise the could help. Survey responses showed the school head. A vehicle-activated speed stolen from a storage container in Forstal Almera in Bentley Close, Aylesford. were stolen from a Ford Transit in vacancies with more information about residents did not want speed humps, sign was suggested, as well as signs on the Road, Aylesford. Somebody broke into a BMW M3 parked Meridian Place, West Malling.

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CALLComplete Cliff on re-builds • Re-pointing •31, Guttering, Sheppey Road, roof Loose,& valley Maidstone repairs The completeCall Gary Bathroom 07738 902116 Mob: 07711@ 291921 07940Mob: 854927 07711 291921 Mob: 07711 291921 07940 854927 0794001622 854927 739439 07860Chimney 318166 Maintenance [email protected] Maintenance CompanyThe completeSales Bathroom31, Sheppey Road, Loose,Chimney Maidstone Maintenance31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone The complete BathroomTheNONO CALL CALLcomplete OUT OUT FEE FEE01622 & & BathroomFREE FREE QUOTESQUOTES736266 Maintenance Company Chimney Maintenance Maintenance CompanyMaintenanceALL WORK Company GUARANTEEDServices Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES & HH && GG ChimneyChimney ServicesServices SupplySupply •• InstallInstall •• RepairRepair Chimney Maintenance Chimney Maintenance Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTESFloorNO CALL& Wall OUT Tiling FEE & FREE • Full QUOTES PlumbingNO CALL OUT Services FEE & FREE QUOTES FloorSupply & • Wall Install Tiling • Repair • Full Plumbing Services ChimneyChimney sweeping sweeping service service • • LongH Long & established establishedG Chimney • • ICS ICS registered Servicesregistered BuildingBuilders Services AllAll types types of of flu flu • • All All pots-cowls pots-cowls supplied supplied & & fitted fitted Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services CleanChimney sweeping service • LongSweep established • ICS registered H & G Chimney Services The complete SupplyBathroom • Install • RepairMaintenanceSupply • Install Company • Repair Supply • Install • RepairH & CompleteGComplete Chimney re-builds re-builds Services • • Re-pointing Re-pointingH •& • Guttering, Guttering,G Chimney roof roof & & valley valleyServices repairs repairs BUILDINGCallCall & SERVICES GaryGary 0773807738www.mdbuildingse 902116902116rvic e s.co.uk All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Floor & Wall Tiling • Full PlumbingFloor & Wall Services Tiling • Full FloorPlumbing & Wall Services Tiling • Full PlumbingBrushChimney0162201622 739439 739439 sweeping& Servicesvacuum 07860 07860 service 318166 318166 • Long [email protected] [email protected] • ICSsweeping registered service • Long established • ICS registered NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES MDChimney Building sweeping & Services service • Long establishedComplete re-builds • ICS registered • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Looking to extenCalld or impr Gary0162201622ove your ho me07738, w 736266e736266 can help. 902116 All types of flu • All pots-cowls01622 supplied 739439All types& fitted 07860 of flu 318166• All pots-cowls [email protected] suppliedAll & typesfitted of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted From drivPe extenAULtions, plBasterESTing to lighting, MD Building Specialists in CompleteWood re-builds burners • Re-pointing and • fluesGuttering,Complete roof re-builds & valley • repairs Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Supply • Install • Repair • CallFloor Gary& Wall 07738 Tiling •902116 FullCallALL ALLPlumbing Gary01622 WORK WORK 07738 GUARANTEED GUARANTEED 736266ServicesComplete 902116Call re-builds Gary • Re-pointing 07738 • Guttering, 902116 roof & valley repairs Services can supply all aspects of building works you•01622 re Extensionsquire . 739439 • Refurbishments 07860 318166 [email protected] 739439 07860and 318166fitted [email protected] 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] BrickworkALL WORK GUARANTEED• Plastering (All aspects) Cleaners 01622 736266 01622 736266• Electrics • Modernisations01622 736266 Electrics, EOxtensions, Kitchen & Bathroom Fitting, Plastering, Call Gary 07738 902116 • 01622 736266 ExtensionsALL WORK GUARANTEED• Kitchen & BathroomALL Installations WORK GUARANTEEDAll work insured ALL WORK GUARANTEEDPlumbing, DeckingALL Systems WORK, FencinBuildersBuildersg, GUARANTEEDPatios &• Pa Driveways,ving, Brickw Patiosork & Repointing O General Builder DryClean Cleaning Service, Ironing Service, Sweep Builders • Fencing & Blockpaving Clean Sweep ContactO Ma25rk yearsfor a ExperienceFree NoBuilders Obligation Quote on: 07841 409061 ShoeAll repairs, work Alterations, certified Service Wash to coverAdvertise insurance in our FULLY INSURED CleanBrushBrush && vacuumvacuum Sweep BuildersMDMD Building Building & & Services ServicesBuilders& PestDuvet Wash control available if requiredavailable online business Builders 01622 891960 CleanTel: Mark 07841 409061 SweepCleanBrush & vacuum SweepClean Sweep PPAULAUL BBESTEST MDe: [email protected] BuildingSpecialistsSpecialists & inServicesin WoodWood burnersburnersVarious Promotions andand fluesflues 07748 630747 •• Extensions Extensions • • Refurbishments Refurbishments Camera inspectionsAvailable availabledirectory for as PAUL BEST Brush•www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk PlasteringSpecialists & vacuum(All aspects)in BrushWoodsupplied & burners vacuum and fitted and fluesBrush & vacuum MD BrickworkBuildingBrickworkAUL & ServicesEST MD• Building Plastering (All& Servicesaspects) MDsupplied Building &andFriendly Services fitted Sta P B Brickwork•• •Extensions Electrics Electrics • • Modernisations ModernisationsRefurbishments Weddings attended little as £4 per OAUL EST • Kitchen• Plastering AUL& Bathroom (All aspects) InstallationsEST Woodsupplied burners and fitted and fluesWood burners and flues PAUL BEST PBrickworkOSpecialistsExtensionsExtensionsB in Wood• KitchenPSpecialists & BathroomburnersB in Installations and fluesEstAllAll 15 years workworkSpecialists plus OAP insuredinsured in 10% Discount • ExtensionsO • Refurbishments ••• Driveways, Driveways,•Extensions Electrics Patios •Patios• ModernisationsRefurbishments & & Repointing Repointing • Extensions • Refurbishments OO GeneralExtensions Builder • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations Member of the ICS month + Vat H & G Chimney Services • PlasteringGeneralExtensions (All aspects) Builder Building suppliedPlans•• FencingPlastering Fencing & & (AllBlockpaving andBlockpaving aspects) fitted suppliedAll• Plasteringwork and(Allinsured aspects) fitted supplied and fitted Brickwork Brickwork • Driveways,Brickwork Patios & Repointing PopAll in towork see us for morecertified information to cover insurance • ElectricsOO 25 • yearsModernisations Experience • Electrics • Modernisations All• Electrics work • Modernisations certified to cover insurance Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered OO25GeneralGeneral years BuilderExperience Builder • FencingFULLY & INSURED Blockpaving O Extensions • Kitchen & BathroomExtensions Installations • KitchenFULLYO & BathroomExtensions INSURED Installations All•All KitchenMartinHETAS workwork Square& Bathroom insuredapprovedcertified InstallationsTel: to coverAll work insurance insured All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted • Complete O 25 years Experience •All Driveways, work Patios insured & Repointing • PestDriveways, control Patios & Repointing available O • Driveways,OO GeneralPatios25 years & BuilderRepointing Experience Tel: MarkFULLYO General 07841 INSURED Builder 409061 PestLark eld control01732 available522221 01622 630330 General Builder • 01622Fencing & Blockpaving 891960 Tel:• FencingMark & 07841 Blockpaving 409061 • Fencing & Blockpaving re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs 01622O 891960 e: [email protected] AllPest work control certified available to coverAll work insurance certified to cover insurance O 25 years Experience 25 years Experience Tel:Alle: [email protected] MarkworkO 25 07841 years certified Experience 409061 to coverContact insurance Kevin Bovis 07748FULLY01622 INSURED 630747891960 FULLY INSURED CameraCameraFULLY INSURED inspectionsinspections availableavailable [email protected] 07748 630747 e: www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukmark@mdbuildingservices.co.ukwww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Driveway Services 01622 891960 Tel:07748Pest Mark control 63074707841 409061 availableTel:PestCamera Mark control 07841 inspections 409061available availablePest control available 01622 739439 0786001622 318166 891960 Tel: Mark0162207748 07841 891960630747 409061 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk01622 891960 WeddingsWeddings01622 844385 attendedattended e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Camerae: [email protected] inspections available 07748 630747Building PlansCamerawww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk07748 inspections 630747 availableWeddings attended Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukBuildingBuilding Plans Plans MemberMember07885www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk of651578of thethe ICSICS TOM HOPEBuildingCarpentersoffers Plans Weddingsthe following services: attended [email protected] of attended the ICS Weddings attended Most types of fencing undertaken • Fields rolled, harrowed and fertilised (ATV spread if wet) HETASHETAS approvedapproved Building Plans FlailBuilding mowing (untidy Plans fieldMember to a lawn) of theBuilding ICS PlansMemberHETAS approved of the ICS Member of the ICS Having (whole or part job) bale wrapping, baling, round, quadrant and conventional. SURFACING CONTRACTORS Trailer Hire-Sales-Repair 38 Maidstone WealdHorse manureOctober loaded 2017 and taken away. HETASContactContact approved KevinKevin BovisBovis 13 tonne 360 with experience operator, fullHETAS range of bucket’s concreteapproved breaker Contact Kevin BovisHETAS approved Kent Trailers Circular saw for overgrown hedges – other services available (anything considered). Indespension Agent REQUIRED: Fields for haying and grazing. Contact016220162201622 844385844385Kevin 725328 Bovis • 07778 156314 FOR SALE:Contact Kevin Bovis01622 844385 Contact Kevin Bovis Livestock, Plant, Recovery, Van, General Purpose Oak offcut’s ideal woodburner (large loads). Half tonne apple bin’s – used once. [email protected] 651578 Trailers in stock, New & Used All type and shapes of forage. Clean brick and block hardcore, also plannings. 0162207885 844385 651578 Large quantity of farmyard manure any 01622size load, collected or 844385delivered. [email protected] 651578 01622 844385 Detling All above subject to availability. [email protected] 01622 730063 [email protected] 07860 318166 [email protected] 651578 Telephone/Fax: 01233 75667307885Mobile: 07890 651578 818783 07885 651578 [email protected] 3838 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald October October 2017 [email protected] [email protected] 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Please call 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 H²0 Plumbusters38 Maidstonefor winter Weald Octoberspecial 201728 Malling March 2020 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALISTS price and a Maidstone Weald December 2017 39 FREE quote We are a well established family run company with over 25 years experience based in Maidstone Tel: covering Kent, we can help you with your 01622 672743 bathroom or kitchen design and install, we Mobile specialise in central heating repairs and 07703 442025 upgrades including boiler replacements. Gas safe www.plumbusters.co.uk No 521635

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58 Mid Kent Living www.sabrekent.co.uk House & Property Clearance Furniture Clearance & Disposal Commercial Property Clearance Plastering Services Building Waste Disposal Malling March 2020 29 Garden Waste Disposal D K PLASTERING I B Plastering Rubbish Clearance & Junk Removals Landline: 01622 910043 All plastering work carried out Free No Obligation Quote Mobile:07931889543 • Excellent Work • Excellent Prices • Reliable Service, No Job To Small, Fully Insured [email protected] FREE Quotes Call Ian on: www.clarity-property-clearance.co.uk Email: [email protected] Mob 07752175135 Call David 01622 728494 Tel:01622 843530 Mobile: 07974 891795 Email: [email protected] Roofing Services

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Malling March 2020 31 Recruitment

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Malling March 2020 33 downsmail.co.uk Comment Houses nightmare is killing us r THE crises caused by massive needing to make decisions, especially housing development in and around buying or selling a house? Maidstone are killing us – both literally MailMarks Could this unwelcome latest policy change be linked to opposition and and metaphorically. DENNIS FOWLE President The huge rise in population and challenges it faces creating its own 5,000- [email protected] serious shortage of NHS staff not now houses garden village at Lenham Heath? attracted to Maidstone (see separate story It is an appalling situation for residents in our news pages) increasingly threatens whose quality of life has been so very the health of our worried population. and demand cannot sensibly be met seriously harmed in many ways and who Many, unable to make an urgent GP without causing immense further damage now face a bleak and uncertain future. appointment, are going to A&E as the and dangers. Maidstone’s ancient road I hear of long-term Maidstone residents “faster alternative”. This increases structure presents huge problems for giving up and moving to other parts of pressures on already-overstretched major improvements – but Government the country for a happier life and future. hospitals also facing serious staff figures seem to suggest one size fits all. YES – MAIDSTONE IS BEING KILLED. shortages, at a time of 12% growth in The council is supported by MP Helen emergency attendances (6,456) in Grant, who says housing targets must be Who’s in charge? DO you think decisions on Maidstone November. Emergency department fair, balanced and achievable – “and at r Council are made by your elected performance has been below target for the moment they are not”. She needs councillors or unelected officers? Several four months. strong support from all MPs for angry top councillors now say the council is The NHS will not readily admit patient South East constituencies to force Government to listen and act when it increasingly officer-led. I fear they are harm, but it is inconceivable this is not wants to ignore us – and now bullying to right. occurring with so many problems. strip unco-operative councils of planning In almost 70 years in journalism, I have Maidstone suffers among the most powers. This is not really a party worked very closely with three Kent local serious shortage of GPs in the country, political issue. The strong drive for many authorities and became personal friends leaving some remaining practices very more houses is policy for Conservatives, with many superb, dedicated councillors. overworked as they struggle to meet Labour and Liberal Democrats. Criticism I knew how vital they were to proper growing demands. GP appointments of Government policy is aimed at how it operation of their council and gave them may be offered weeks ahead and then the determines the number of houses as much editorial backing as possible. 10-minute or so appointment can leave demanded on a town-by-town basis. In They needed support of good officers – doctors short of time for proper full Maidstone, criticism of the ruling Lib but had to lead and control them. investigation and consideration. Dems is based on where and how I felt confident about Maidstone a few Patients happy with regular housing is being planned to meet years back, especially when the cabinet medications serving them well for years outrageous national demands. system was introduced. The council find they are changed without notice due It has become a political very hot leader appointed four or five councillors to national shortages, and now there may potato, especially with local elections to his cabinet with specific portfolios. All be no adequate follow-up assessments. planned for May and the Tories pressing significant council decisions were made There is strong local NHS determination to regain control. But who would now at formal meetings by the full cabinet or to improve – but challenges are too great. want to handle this potato? individual members – and if other The other growing risk to our health is There are very angry councillors, councillors did not like a decision they increasing traffic chaos across Maidstone. especially in some hard-hit rural wards, could call it in for further consideration at In parts of the town, notably in Upper and as protests grow, Maidstone a meeting all interested councillors could Stone Street (fifth highest in UK outside Council’s strategies now seem to be attend. Final decision rested with cabinet. of London), toxic air from vehicle fumes getting into a real mess. When Lib Dems last regained council still exceeds World Health Organisation The council’s last call for local land control, they sadly reverted to council guidelines. The biggest health danger is offers for around 10,500 houses attracted committee meetings so all councillors had blood clots. many hopeful speculators, totalling greater involvement to speak and vote. All this is arising with just about a 60,000 houses. These offers caused These meetings are not held with quarter built of the 28,000 new houses widespread alarm in the borough and, to anything like the frequency of cabinet demanded by Government in our Local end appalling uncertainties, the council meetings and it becomes more likely Plan up to 2037. The people’s rebellion said it would quickly dismiss no hopers. officers will provide the urgency council has grown, forcing Maidstone borough Now it has added to fervent anger by work often needs. councillors and our MPs really to listen. saying it must fully assess all 334 offers From these seeds, officer power and Our council is challenging Government, and decisions may not be announced for control grow. IT IS THE WRONG WAY saying Maidstone calculations are wrong a year. What will that do for residents ROUND. Residents sick of speeding driveway to execute a three-point turn. have resulted in a huge increase in traffic We have suffered abuse from motorists using Roseacre Lane as a shortcut to and I REFER to your recent coverage of traffic if we remonstrate with them for using our from the motorway. These motorists have issues in Roseacre Lane in Bearsted. private land. We have even been abused little regard for residents and pedestrians. If the speed limit signs and large 20mph by motorists for slowing down to drive on Roseacre Lane does not have a footpath notices painted on the road are failing to slow traffic, I suggest stickers on wheelie to our own driveways. and is only wide enough for one car. bins are unlikely to have any effect. Without access to driveways, the traffic Bearsted Parish Council is powerless to As a resident of the lane, I and many would be unable to flow. do anything. It would appear that neighbours, now find that our wheelie A recent survey in Roseacre Lane Maidstone Borough Council is also unable bins are moved by motorists who cannot revealed that a large percentage of traffic is or unwilling to listen to our concerns. pass each other and resort to using our speeding in excess of 20mph. Kent County Council has indicated that driveways as a lay-by or passing place. The enormous number of houses being it will need a serious accident or a death I have experienced lorries using my built in the Sutton Road area seems to before something can be done to slow or

34 Malling March 2020 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Comment Comment stop the traffic. I think the time has now impossible. We are completely dependent Government wants to encourage more people come to close Roseacre Lane at the Hog on imports to sustain our population. to settle in the South East (which it should Hill end. There is ample room at this end The housing problem, like so many of not), then it must fund fully-resourced new Houses nightmare is killing us to allow for a turnaround. A barrier or our problems, is due to the population towns. bollard could be installed to which pressure in this country, which continues You must not underestimate the popular THE crises caused by massive needing to make decisions, especially r emergency vehicles could have access if to increase inexorably. reaction that will meet a hesitant or half- buying or selling a house? housing development in and around the need arose. Like Chris Packham, I am not sanguine hearted attempt to correct the problems that Could this unwelcome latest policy Maidstone are killing us – both literally MailMarks Roseacre Lane is crumbling away. It was about our future prospects, but let’s hope have been created in our daily lives here in change be linked to opposition and and metaphorically. DENNIS FOWLE President never designed to take the amount of that something positive comes about from Maidstone. We need and expect radical change The huge rise in population and challenges it faces creating its own 5,000- [email protected] traffic which is now using it. There are no Maidstone Borough Council’s approach to now. houses garden village at Lenham Heath? serious shortage of NHS staff not now pavements to ensure pedestrian safety on parliament. Michael Marriott, Maidstone It is an appalling situation for residents attracted to Maidstone (see separate story a route used by children and the elderly. Ray Town, via email whose quality of life has been so very in our news pages) increasingly threatens Why should we wait for our property to and demand cannot sensibly be met seriously harmed in many ways and who Building blow to village the health of our worried population. be damaged, for an accident to occur or for without causing immense further damage now face a bleak and uncertain future. Resources, not homes MAIDSTONE Borough Council’s call for Many, unable to make an urgent GP someone to be injured before common and dangers. Maidstone’s ancient road I hear of long-term Maidstone residents THIS is a letter sent to Maidstone and the sites has generated 16 plots in East appointment, are going to A&E as the sense prevails and the traffic is stopped? structure presents huge problems for giving up and moving to other parts of Weald MP Helen Grant about the joint Farleigh with 1,399 houses proposed. “faster alternative”. This increases Jane Evans, via email major improvements – but Government the country for a happier life and future. action about the borough’s housing Development in East Farleigh would be pressures on already-overstretched hospitals also facing serious staff figures seem to suggest one size fits all. YES – MAIDSTONE IS BEING KILLED. numbers instigated by the Conservative catastrophic. The East Farleigh Village shortages, at a time of 12% growth in The council is supported by MP Helen Action on homes a bit late opposition at Maidstone Borough Council. Plan does not identify significant demand emergency attendances (6,456) in Grant, who says housing targets must be Who’s in charge? Dear Mrs Grant, for housing in the area. DO you think decisions on Maidstone November. Emergency department fair, balanced and achievable – “and at r REFERENCE your front-page article in the You will have read in this week’s press of Excessive targets for housing in the Council are made by your elected performance has been below target for the moment they are not”. She needs February edition, “Battle to stop building voters’ loss of faith in the democratic process South East far exceed what local people councillors or unelected officers? Several four months. strong support from all MPs for angry will go to Westminster”. and, closer to home, of the public frustration need or infrastructure can sustain. top councillors now say the council is The NHS will not readily admit patient South East constituencies to force I am amazed it has taken so long for that Maidstone is being destroyed by There is little long-term planning Government to listen and act when it increasingly officer-led. I fear they are harm, but it is inconceivable this is not Maidstone borough councillors to come to overpopulation and under-provision brought regarding the town centre, transport or wants to ignore us – and now bullying to right. occurring with so many problems. the conclusion that this action is needed. about by a failure of national Government to housing and therefore current planning strip unco-operative councils of planning In almost 70 years in journalism, I have Maidstone suffers among the most For at least a decade, anyone with assist in planning for an increasing developments adjacent to East Farleigh powers. This is not really a party worked very closely with three Kent local serious shortage of GPs in the country, common sense could see where the large population. already impact the village and through political issue. The strong drive for many authorities and became personal friends leaving some remaining practices very housing target was likely to lead us. I am delighted to read that you are joining traffic. Congestion does not just affect more houses is policy for Conservatives, with many superb, dedicated councillors. At least the Conservative opposition with local councillors to present a case to local residents but others going through overworked as they struggle to meet Labour and Liberal Democrats. Criticism I knew how vital they were to proper leader Cllr John Perry has set the ball government for a cessation of house-building the village using the main route across the growing demands. GP appointments of Government policy is aimed at how it operation of their council and gave them rolling, although his comment that in our town. You must not underestimate the river. It is estimated that if each proposed may be offered weeks ahead and then the determines the number of houses as much editorial backing as possible. housing targets cannot be met “without strength of feeling here about the way our daily house made just four single journeys a 10-minute or so appointment can leave demanded on a town-by-town basis. In They needed support of good officers – adversely affecting the residents”, might lives have been diminished by this mindless day additional traffic volume of 39,172 a doctors short of time for proper full Maidstone, criticism of the ruling Lib but had to lead and control them. have been better expressed as “without expansion. week would occur. Rural roads already investigation and consideration. Dems is based on where and how I felt confident about Maidstone a few adversely affecting the environment”. It will not be sufficient merely to stop all struggle with significant congestion. Patients happy with regular housing is being planned to meet years back, especially when the cabinet The environment impinges on residents, building activity here. The process needs to be The grade I listed bridge is narrow with medications serving them well for years outrageous national demands. system was introduced. The council but also affects wildlife. Even the present reversed and, in addition, we need substantial no pavement. Road safety and find they are changed without notice due It has become a political very hot leader appointed four or five councillors building level is causing serious traffic Government investment to recover the loss of pedestrian/cyclist safety are compromised to national shortages, and now there may potato, especially with local elections to his cabinet with specific portfolios. All gridlock and increased air pollution. resources in terms of our hospital, GP by unsuitable of roads and lack of be no adequate follow-up assessments. planned for May and the Tories pressing significant council decisions were made The current wheeze is the plea to plant surgeries, roads, green spaces and other footpaths. There are inadequate local There is strong local NHS determination to regain control. But who would now at formal meetings by the full cabinet or more trees. In Kent, all we are doing is facilities which have been swamped by facilities, amenities, services and to improve – but challenges are too great. want to handle this potato? individual members – and if other planting houses. Where the land is to unplanned migration, both internal and infrastructure to provide for a The other growing risk to our health is There are very angry councillors, councillors did not like a decision they come from to plant more trees eludes me, international. substantially bigger community. increasing traffic chaos across Maidstone. especially in some hard-hit rural wards, could call it in for further consideration at and the loss of agricultural land in the As Dennis Fowle puts it in the Downs Mail: The National Planning Policy In parts of the town, notably in Upper and as protests grow, Maidstone a meeting all interested councillors could county is already dire. “Maidstone has become an awful example of a Framework states fundamental aims to Stone Street (fifth highest in UK outside Council’s strategies now seem to be attend. Final decision rested with cabinet. In the early 1970s, Kenneth Mellanby, major town being destroyed by unbelievable prevent unrestricted sprawl of built-up of London), toxic air from vehicle fumes getting into a real mess. When Lib Dems last regained council director of the Monk’s Wood Research housing targets, now very seriously impacting areas and neighbouring towns merging to still exceeds World Health Organisation The council’s last call for local land control, they sadly reverted to council Station, wrote a small book entitled “Can on quality of life in so many ways for residents. safeguard countryside, preserve special guidelines. The biggest health danger is offers for around 10,500 houses attracted committee meetings so all councillors had Britain Feed Itself?” The conclusion then There is now an opportunity for the new character and historic areas and to blood clots. many hopeful speculators, totalling greater involvement to speak and vote. was that it was unlikely without some Government to set the country on a positive support sustainable development. All this is arising with just about a 60,000 houses. These offers caused These meetings are not held with pain, but to do so now is utterly and creative course for the future. If the Hilary Whibley, East Farleigh quarter built of the 28,000 new houses widespread alarm in the borough and, to anything like the frequency of cabinet demanded by Government in our Local end appalling uncertainties, the council meetings and it becomes more likely Plan up to 2037. The people’s rebellion said it would quickly dismiss no hopers. officers will provide the urgency council has grown, forcing Maidstone borough Now it has added to fervent anger by work often needs. The five editions of the Downs Mail are delivered to 90% of households in the Maidstone and Malling area, councillors and our MPs really to listen. saying it must fully assess all 334 offers From these seeds, officer power and reaching over 190, 000 readers every month. Our council is challenging Government, and decisions may not be announced for control grow. IT IS THE WRONG WAY saying Maidstone calculations are wrong a year. What will that do for residents ROUND. Maidstone North Maidstone South Maidstone East Maidstone Weald Malling Residents sick of speeding driveway to execute a three-point turn. have resulted in a huge increase in traffic Current and archived editions are also free to read online at We have suffered abuse from motorists using Roseacre Lane as a shortcut to and www.downsmail.co.uk I REFER to your recent coverage of traffic if we remonstrate with them for using our from the motorway. These motorists have issues in Roseacre Lane in Bearsted. private land. We have even been abused little regard for residents and pedestrians. Contact our teams…. If the speed limit signs and large 20mph by motorists for slowing down to drive on Roseacre Lane does not have a footpath Editorial notices painted on the road are failing to Sales Accounts Dept. Editor: slow traffic, I suggest stickers on wheelie to our own driveways. and is only wide enough for one car. Simon Finlay Sales Manager: Bill Brett [email protected] Without access to driveways, the traffic Bearsted Parish Council is powerless to Simon.fi[email protected] bins are unlikely to have any effect. [email protected] 01622 630330 ext 229 As a resident of the lane, I and many would be unable to flow. do anything. It would appear that 01622 734735 01622 630330 ext. 221 Mail Publications Ltd neighbours, now find that our wheelie A recent survey in Roseacre Lane Maidstone Borough Council is also unable Deputy editor: Doug Kempster Forge House Advertising Sales Enquiry bins are moved by motorists who cannot revealed that a large percentage of traffic is or unwilling to listen to our concerns. [email protected] : Bearsted Green Business Park pass each other and resort to using our speeding in excess of 20mph. Kent County Council has indicated that 01622 734735 01622 630330 option 1 Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT driveways as a lay-by or passing place. The enormous number of houses being it will need a serious accident or a death I have experienced lorries using my built in the Sutton Road area seems to before something can be done to slow or

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