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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 MayPanto 2019 ahoy! Kate,No. 265 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- Npeople’sews home in Bearsted, stone, took to the River Medway to School rated has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were Drive-thru protest national‘out treasurestan Rustiedi nLeeg (Fairy’ PLANS to convert an oast house Godmother),YOUNGSTE RformerS at EastEnderFive Acr Ste-e inMP’sto a fas tLocal food dr ivPlane-thru abidre at fanWo oBoothd are (Princecelebra Charming),ting after th Eliza-eir thHELENe cent rWhatelye of a d iaskedspute thein bethclass es Bright were b r (Cinderella),anded “outst an Craigd- Sngovernmentodland. to halt the 4 Andersoning” by ed u (Buttons)cation w a and,tchd o pictured,gs. borough’s housing scheme. 4 StephenThe sc h Richardsool, whic h and ha s Adam a site i Bor-n zoneSnod (Uglyland, Sisters)was pr .a ised for its Drink-driver case “rTheyelent lwereess fo greetedcus on rbyais pupilsing sta nfrom- A PlansDRIVER hforas a dDrmi tNigelted to Southdards ”Borough. Primary School and spending lunchtime in the pub THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members Full re p ofor t the, pa media.ge 16. The panto before crashing her car in will walk the Grand runs from December 1-31. For tick- Aylesford. Canyon for charity. 126 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. Cost of flytipping FLJasonYTIPPIN GDonovan has become date“part Jealous ex started fatal oTHEf ev eformerryday Neighbourslife” say fa starrme bringsrs, as thhise gshowover tonm theen Hazlittt relea ses 18 CCTV call in a bid itTheatres latest nextfigu rMay.es. 8 fire at home, court told Family exam A LARKFIELD mother and son AN “OBSESSIVE” man set fire to his family’s home because he are poised to sit English GCSE together. 17 tothought h stopis wife was having fly-tipping an affair, a murder trial has heard. CALLSSimon C forhilds the (52 installation) allegedly of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a Obituaries 24 started the blaze in Spitfire Road country(pictured) w roadhich kill haveed his m beenother- made by the local borough councillor. Parish Councils 26 inBurberry-law Jackie Lane, Allen near(65), b Leedsecause and he nearby, more than a year after it unlicensed waste carriers, but be- COUNCILLORS in Birling are con- Broomfield,believed that hasMan beendy, hi targeteds wife of 1 by6 was dumped and set on fire. lieves the cost to small firms of dis- cerned the village hall car park is wasteyears, dumperswas seein forg hi years,s cous butin. in re- The church car park has also seen posing of construction waste at a Obituaries 32 being used for drug taking; East centPro months,secuting the, Ca problemroline Ca hasrber be-ry many instances of illegal dumping. transfer station is proving a deter- Peckham prepares to fly the Red comeQC to moreld Ma acute.idstone Crown Court: But it is a problem in many rural rent that is costing councils more. EnParishsign to Councilsmark Mercha nt34-35 Navy “HConstructione was a jealo waste,us an rubble,d obses hardsive areas including Langley, Otham Cllr Fort made her remarks as Day in September; residents core,man windowswith a his andtory household of erratic fur-be- and Kingswood. Water Lane in one of the borough’s closest trans- ASH dieback has been discovered in asked parish councillors why niturehaviou isr a leftfter illegally the brea –k oftendown strewn of his Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in Detling; Kings Hill has no place of wor- inma therria middlege.” of the road. also been targeted recently. bridge Wells, announced it will be Hollingbourne village fete stall- shholderip; on co-ordinatorly six mem Jeanbers Duffyof th hase CllrChil Gillds a Fortdmit said:ted a “Everyssaultin monthg his Last year, Maidstone Borough closed for 10 weeks. tronic tag indicates he had left his Mandy told the court: “Simon presigned;ublic atte nyellowded a clinesoffe eare m oneededrning wewife are twi havingce. She toilets,had a re sinksstrain anding mCouncilother’s cleared house 911 a casesnd r ofetu fly-tip-rned anShed m added:y mum “If d youidn't go lik alonge eac theh wforith Buffkynthe Ken Way,t Po lOthamice and, toCr iallowme construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 line of increasing fines, they have to order against him, which he ig- shortly after.” other. My mum just tolerated him. Cbusesommi sthroughsioner i nImperial Park;. rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. be enforced. A reduction in the Leybourne nored on multiple occasions. The court heard Childs, a pest She never came to the house be- bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings charge or offering it free may have On the night of the fire, the order controller, told friends that he was cause she felt too uncomfortable. CKingswoodrime Rearepo tor tbes moved over26 to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.” required Childs to be at his going to “burn the ******* house “Since we split up, me and my the picnic area and rear exit. land,mothe tor’s oversee home in the Hu problemrricane R area.”oad. doCllrwn” Fort, as w welcomedell as his c aou jointsin’s initia- car- muAm three-monthly had a brilliant litter relat pickionsh onip the. I Comment 34-35 ABu recentt the p eventrosecu into Burberryr said: “At Lane the ativevan byin E theastb Environmentourne, where Agencyhe be- smile-longaw her eve stretchry day.” of road through Crime Reports 35 sawtime ath caravane fire wa burneds starte outd, h whileis elec- a landieved the Ma Driverndy wa ands sta Vehicleying. Stan- LeedsMrs C villagearberr producesy said: “Th aner averagee is no torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on d32isp blackute t sackshe fire of th rubbish.at killed Jackie VEHICLES have been driven over AlCllrlen w Fort,as s whotarte d also d e servesliberat e asly . a farmland in Lenham, causing Jparishackie s u councillor,stained ‘un s saysurviv a teachingble’ in- damge to crops; an attempted jchildrenuries in t abouthe fire social and a responsibility pathologist break-in was reported in Detling; a vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted candonf itherme issued she of di littered fro inm schools smoke iwilln- InRd,sid Weaveringe this edi;t io pumpkinsn: were hhelpalati otaken.” the issue off the streets. stolen from an allotment in SheCh believesilds d ewithnies everymur householdder, at- SERVICES for the elderly will suf- feLenhamr as cen. tre prepares to close. YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT treceivingempted m a uweeklyrder a nrefused ars collectionon with service, there is no excuse for litter The four-page supplement inside intent to endanger life in Novem- [email protected] being thrown from vehicles or byComment Malling Ac t i o n P a rtn46-47ership ber last year. 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. supports people and events. The trial continues. HomeHome AlarmsAlarms supplied supplied and and fitted fitted visit www.amiga.co.ukwww.amiga.co.uk oror call call 0800008000 199622 199622 NO GIMMICKS! NO MISLEADING OFFERS! TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!

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2 Malling May 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Garden date Converted church up GET gardening and earn some money for your efforts. Tonbridge and Malling Bor- ough Council’s In Bloom compe- tition offers all entrants a £5 for sale – for £900,000 voucher to spend on plants. The competition is open to individu- THE Church of New Jerusalem in als, businesses, and those respon- Snodland High Street, a grade II sible for community planters. listed building which has been The closing date is June 30. converted into a home, is on the Entry forms are available from market, for £900,000. Leybourne Lakes Country Park, It was bought by Steve Skelton Larkfield Leisure Centre, the and his son, Dave, as an office for council’s offices in Gibson Drive, Holbrook Electrical and Engineer- Kings Hill or online through ing Services in 2010. But when sponsors, www.coolings.co.uk. Dave met Melissa, in 2011, they fell in love with the old building and Rape arrests decided to live there. Dave and Melissa worked week- A MAN from Aylesford has been ends and every evening on the con- arrested on suspicion of rape. version. They married in 2013, and An investigation has been slept in an office in a hall next to the launched by Kent Police after it church, while the work was being work before putting the church up it was like a dumping ground.” was reported the offence had done. for auction for £240,000 in 2007. "Luckily we didn't have to take the taken place at a home in Canter- The church was built in 1881 and The Skeltons (pictured) have re- roof off but, if it had been left for a bury, in the early hours of Sun- used as a place of worship until the tained the original stone pulpit, the few more years, it would have cost day, April 21. 1980s. It was bought by Paul Tit- organ, the altar and several stained a lot more money." Two men from Canterbury, terton and Maxine Gent from Essex glass windows. They have built Melissa, who used to live in aged 18 and 26, and the 21-year- in 2005 for £185,000, and even ap- four bedrooms upstairs and one Hove, says she misses being by the old man from Aylesford were ar- peared in the BBC television series, downstairs. sea, so the couple, along with two- rested on Thursday, April 25. Homes under the Hammer. Dave said: “Windows were year-old son, Harrison, plan to They remain in custody while en- The couple carried out some smashed, the floor was rotting and move to the Kent coast. quiries are ongoing.

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Malling May 2019 3 News | Fast food plan downsmail.co.uk Your views “Snodland does not need or want something like this. Obesity is a national problem and a KFC here is not an option.” Annick West, Malling Road

“Why not turn the site into hous- ing? Snodland desperately needs it.” Val Whate, Brooke Lane

“It’s simply not the right site. There are no crossing facilities in Hollow Lane, which is a residen- tial lane. Malling Road gets noto- riously busy anyway. “A KFC will bring more youths with anti-social behaviour who, instead of eating a decent meal at home, will eat greasy chicken and KFC plan causing fatty fries because that is what’s attractive to them. Looking at other fast food restaurants in the area, you can see the amount of litter.” Snodland dispute Sarah Heath, Malling Road A COMMUNITY stands divided over controversial plans to breathe new “The site is just inappropriate. The KFC is not for the people of life into an old oast house … by converting it into a fast food outlet. Snodland, it’s for people miles A franchisee for KFC has in- investment and regeneration to impact. I’m the first to comment on away travelling to get a KFC be- flamed passions after proposing to the area. things if they are wrong, but people cause the only other drive-thru is turn the Snodland site into a drive- Opponent Jim Kirkwood, of are just making silly signs and com- the one in Gillingham. People thru and restaurant. Alex Hughes Close, told Downs ments on Facebook instead of con- from Ryarsh, Allington, Larkfield. As Downs Mail went to press, Mail: “The proposed entrance is sidering the actual issue. “There is a People will be drawn to the more than 200 opponents and 20 right outside my house. I have lived petrol station opposite and a pub brand, especially school kids.” supporters had put pen to paper here for 20 years and I don’t want that sells food all day with live Georgina Turner, Brooke Lane and fired off their thoughts to bor- the smell, traffic or 11pm meets in music, and people are worried ough planners, who will ulti- the car park. I have spoken to two about a KFC? Obesity and anti-so- “The place they want to put the mately rule on the Hollow Lane local chicken shops who, after hear- cial behaviour are cultural issues, car park sees right into my front proposals. ing about the proposed site, are where’s the individual will power room. You can see into my garden Banners have already appeared thinking of closing down. Snodland to not eat take away food every where my kids play. The site is on the land, reading “Say no to is full of barbers and takeaways. If night? completely wrong.” KFC drive-thru” and “Yes to KFC anything, this proposal takes away “Snodland desperately need Anne Austin, Alex Hughes it’s cluckin’ amazing”. jobs, because local businesses aren’t jobs and environmental invest- Close Those against the moves cite able to compete.” ments. The opening hours start at traffic, litter, unfair competition, But supporter Tim Groves, of 11am, so will not attract any cus- “There is no suitable crossing for anti-social behaviour and obesity Apple Close, said: “There are 10 tomers in rush-hour traffic.” the site and no additional high- as their primary concerns. Those takeaways in Snodland, KFC is Report and pictures by Jade way works planned. Part of the in favour say KFC will bring jobs, hardly going to create that much Schopman site is actually owned by KCC and the land will need to be bought by them. In rush hour, lor- ries block the main road. Just be- ‘Comments will all be considered’ cause they are offering a few IF SUCCESSFUL, the KFC applica- more jobs does not mean those tion would see the “partial demoli- jobs will go to local people.” tion of the existing building” but David Rayner, Coroner Terrace “the retention and associated im- provements of the existing oast “Snodland is becoming one big house, roundels and cowls”. fast food restaurant.” It would include a 29-space car Leanne Lambox, Alex Hughes park, and the restaurant would, says Close the applicant, employ about 45 full- time and part-time staff. “Lorry drivers coming off the A spokesman for TMBC said: “We M20 will stop at this KFC and its have received comments about known that lorry drivers block the many aspects of the proposals that main road, causing chaos. will all be considered as part of the “They have already turned the officer report to the planning com- old NatWest on the High Street mittee.” into a Dominos. How many fast She added that a committee date food takeaways do we need?” was not yet known. Neighbours Ben, Michael and Jim, of Alex Hughes Close Tina Hasemore, Lakeside

4 Malling May 2019 News | Fast food plan downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Your views “Snodland does not need or want Poor turnout at something like this. Obesity is a national problem and a KFC here is not an option.” Annick West, Malling Road local elections “Why not turn the site into hous- LESS than a third of those eligible Tories Brian Luker and Lee ing? Snodland desperately needs to vote used the chance on May 2 O’Toole. it.” to choose their borough represen- Labour’s Paul Hickmott is one of Val Whate, Brooke Lane tative for the next four years. three councillors representing Reflecting the national mood, the Snodland West and Holborough “It’s simply not the right site. low turnout (30%) in Tonbridge Lakes. There are no crossing facilities in and Malling served to dilute the As well as the poor turn-out, Hollow Lane, which is a residen- Tory stronghold by nine seats. there was concern about represen- tial lane. Malling Road gets noto- The borough council election has tation in wards such as Mereworth, riously busy anyway. prompted widespread comment, where only two councillors – both “A KFC will bring more youths not the least, from the council’s Conservatives – stood uncontested. with anti-social behaviour who, group leader who said people The council’s Tory leader Nico- instead of eating a decent meal at were “disillusioned with politics”. las Heslop, who retained his seat, home, will eat greasy chicken and KFC plan causing Conservative councillors on the was sorry so many of his col- fatty fries because that is what’s borough council now number 39 leagues were not elected. He said attractive to them. (down from 48) – a 47% share of they would be missed and thanked Looking at other fast food the votes. Nineteen per cent were them for their years of service. restaurants in the area, you can for the Lib Dems, taking them from He added: “It is was more chal- see the amount of litter.” Snodland dispute four to nine, with other political lenging to increase turnout this Sarah Heath, Malling Road parties, including Labour, earning time around because people are A COMMUNITY stands divided over controversial plans to breathe new a voice. The Independent Alliance more disillusioned than ever with (Kent) secured three seats and The politics and made a decision that “The site is just inappropriate. Green Party two. they would not be voting. The KFC is not for the people of life into an old oast house … by converting it into a fast food outlet. However, the make-up of the “I am very humbled that resi- Snodland, it’s for people miles A franchisee for KFC has in- investment and regeneration to impact. I’m the first to comment on borough council remains true blue, dents have returned a Conserva- away travelling to get a KFC be- flamed passions after proposing to the area. things if they are wrong, but people at 39 to 15. tive-controlled borough council, cause the only other drive-thru is turn the Snodland site into a drive- Opponent Jim Kirkwood, of are just making silly signs and com- In the Malling area, the Conser- and against the background of the the one in Gillingham. People thru and restaurant. Alex Hughes Close, told Downs ments on Facebook instead of con- vatives held Kings Hill, Ditton, most challenging national picture. from Ryarsh, Allington, Larkfield. As Downs Mail went to press, Mail: “The proposed entrance is sidering the actual issue. “There is a Aylesford and Snodland East and “While the Conservatives are the People will be drawn to the more than 200 opponents and 20 right outside my house. I have lived petrol station opposite and a pub Ham Hill, with Labour’s Wayne largest group on Tonbridge and brand, especially school kids.” that sells food all day with live supporters had put pen to paper here for 20 years and I don’t want Mallard just missing out by 62 Malling, I recognise there are com- Georgina Turner, Brooke Lane music, and people are worried and fired off their thoughts to bor- the smell, traffic or 11pm meets in votes. The Lib Dems held East munities represented by other po- about a KFC? Obesity and anti-so- ough planners, who will ulti- the car park. I have spoken to two Malling, Larkfield, Snodland West litical parties. I will wish to listen “The place they want to put the cial behaviour are cultural issues, mately rule on the Hollow Lane local chicken shops who, after hear- and Holborough Lakes and, in constructively to the views of those car park sees right into my front where’s the individual will power proposals. ing about the proposed site, are West Malling and Leybourne, Lib members to deliver the best possi- room. You can see into my garden to not eat take away food every Banners have already appeared thinking of closing down. Snodland Dem Nick Stapleton sits alongside ble service for all our residents.” where my kids play. The site is on the land, reading “Say no to is full of barbers and takeaways. If night? completely wrong.” KFC drive-thru” and “Yes to KFC anything, this proposal takes away “Snodland desperately need Anne Austin, Alex Hughes it’s cluckin’ amazing”. jobs, because local businesses aren’t jobs and environmental invest- Close Those against the moves cite able to compete.” ments. The opening hours start at Vicar finds new role traffic, litter, unfair competition, But supporter Tim Groves, of 11am, so will not attract any cus- “There is no suitable crossing for anti-social behaviour and obesity Apple Close, said: “There are 10 tomers in rush-hour traffic.” THE Rev Mandy Young has left Snodland for a position at Dartford. the site and no additional high- as their primary concerns. Those takeaways in Snodland, KFC is Report and pictures by Jade She started as a curate at All Saints’ Church and Christ Church five way works planned. Part of the in favour say KFC will bring jobs, hardly going to create that much Schopman years ago and, on completing her training, has been supporting the site is actually owned by KCC parish since the Rector, the Rev and the land will need to be Hugh Broadbent, retired last year. bought by them. In rush hour, lor- Mandy was previously a teacher ries block the main road. Just be- ‘Comments will all be considered’ of RE and Philosophy at Bishop cause they are offering a few IF SUCCESSFUL, the KFC applica- Justus Church of England School, more jobs does not mean those tion would see the “partial demoli- Bromley. jobs will go to local people.” tion of the existing building” but Her new position is to serve as a David Rayner, Coroner Terrace “the retention and associated im- community and mission priest at provements of the existing oast St Edmund’s and St Alban’s, Dart- “Snodland is becoming one big house, roundels and cowls”. ford. fast food restaurant.” It would include a 29-space car The mum-of-three told Downs Leanne Lambox, Alex Hughes park, and the restaurant would, says Mail: “I could not have wished to Close the applicant, employ about 45 full- serve my curacy in a better place time and part-time staff. or amongst nicer people, and will “Lorry drivers coming off the A spokesman for TMBC said: “We be forever grateful to Hugh Broad- M20 will stop at this KFC and its have received comments about bent, who was my training incum- known that lorry drivers block the many aspects of the proposals that bent, for all his support and main road, causing chaos. will all be considered as part of the wisdom. “They have already turned the officer report to the planning com- “And to the congregation and old NatWest on the High Street mittee.” wider community for making me feel so welcome and a part of this into a Dominos. How many fast She added that a committee date amazing place called Snodland which, frankly, I had never even heard food takeaways do we need?” was not yet known. Neighbours Ben, Michael and Jim, of Alex Hughes Close of before I arrived.” Tina Hasemore, Lakeside

Malling May 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Spi ing case A SNODLAND teenager has been charged after allegedly spitting at Drink-driver crashed police. Dean Ianson (19) was detained in Norman Road at about mid- night on Tuesday, April 23, after after a trip to the pub officers responded to reports of a man causing a disturbance in A CLEANER, who had downed The court was told Lamonte Simpson Road. pints before driving, crashed into had been drinking cider the During his arrest, it is alleged a car as it waited at temporary evening before the accident and he spat in a constable’s face. Mr traffic lights in Aylesford, a court went to the pub with her mum Ianson, of Nevill Road, was later heard. earlier that afternoon. The plan charged with being drunk and Jane Lamonte (53), of Saltings had been to have one pint, but she disorderly in a public place and Road, Snodland, had been to the ended up drinking “three or four” assaulting an emergency worker. pub with her disabled mother be- after bumping into friends. He is bailed to appear before fore getting into her Vauxhall She said she felt fine to drive, Sevenoaks Magistrates Court on Corsa. but accepted she did not give it June 4. Prosecuting, Debbie Jones told due consideration. She could Maidstone Magistrates Court: “At have phoned her son or a taxi, but 6.10pm on December 16 last year, did not, and for that she was em- Guiding call the victim was in stationary traf- barrassed. GIRL Guides in Wateringbury are fic when the defendant drove into Chairman of the bench, Martin looking to swell their 16-strong the back of her Volvo.” Alderman said: “This incident is ranks as the group heads into a The court heard the defendant aggravated by the fact there was busy summer. was taken to hospital and, follow- a road traffic collision, and some The group says details of its ac- ing a blood test, was found to be people were left injured by your tivities are still in the pipeline but more than two and half times the about it, I have never done any- driving.” will include sailing, canoeing, legal limit for alcohol. thing like that before. Lamonte pleaded guilty to rowing, rafting, a river ramble, a Speaking from the dock, a tear- “I used to have alcohol prob- drink driving and was ordered to weekend on a canal boat, camp- ful Lamonte (pictured) said: “I lems but, even then, I never carry out 60 hours of unpaid ing and days out. can’t explain why I did it, I hurt drove. I haven’t had a drink since work and a £170 fine. She was For details, email watering- my mum and I think I injured the the incident, I don’t even want to also disqualified from driving for [email protected]. lady in front. I feel really bad think about drinking.” 22 months.

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6 Malling May 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Spi ing case A SNODLAND teenager has been charged after allegedly spitting at Drink-driver crashed police. Dean Ianson (19) was detained in Norman Road at about mid- night on Tuesday, April 23, after after a trip to the pub officers responded to reports of a man causing a disturbance in A CLEANER, who had downed The court was told Lamonte Simpson Road. pints before driving, crashed into had been drinking cider the During his arrest, it is alleged a car as it waited at temporary evening before the accident and he spat in a constable’s face. Mr traffic lights in Aylesford, a court went to the pub with her mum Ianson, of Nevill Road, was later heard. earlier that afternoon. The plan charged with being drunk and Jane Lamonte (53), of Saltings had been to have one pint, but she disorderly in a public place and Road, Snodland, had been to the ended up drinking “three or four” assaulting an emergency worker. pub with her disabled mother be- after bumping into friends. He is bailed to appear before fore getting into her Vauxhall She said she felt fine to drive, Sevenoaks Magistrates Court on Corsa. but accepted she did not give it June 4. Prosecuting, Debbie Jones told due consideration. She could Maidstone Magistrates Court: “At have phoned her son or a taxi, but 6.10pm on December 16 last year, did not, and for that she was em- Guiding call the victim was in stationary traf- barrassed. GIRL Guides in Wateringbury are fic when the defendant drove into Chairman of the bench, Martin looking to swell their 16-strong the back of her Volvo.” Alderman said: “This incident is ranks as the group heads into a The court heard the defendant aggravated by the fact there was busy summer. was taken to hospital and, follow- a road traffic collision, and some The group says details of its ac- ing a blood test, was found to be people were left injured by your tivities are still in the pipeline but more than two and half times the about it, I have never done any- driving.” will include sailing, canoeing, legal limit for alcohol. thing like that before. Lamonte pleaded guilty to rowing, rafting, a river ramble, a Speaking from the dock, a tear- “I used to have alcohol prob- drink driving and was ordered to weekend on a canal boat, camp- ful Lamonte (pictured) said: “I lems but, even then, I never carry out 60 hours of unpaid ing and days out. can’t explain why I did it, I hurt drove. I haven’t had a drink since work and a £170 fine. She was For details, email watering- my mum and I think I injured the the incident, I don’t even want to also disqualified from driving for [email protected]. lady in front. I feel really bad think about drinking.” 22 months.

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Malling May 2019 7 News downsmail.co.uk Health gift MENTAL health charity Mind has been given £250 for its work by Farmers picking up customers of a multi-billion pound housing developer. The money was donated by peo- ple viewing new homes at Ley- bourne Chase in West Malling. the cost of flytipping Julie Blackmore, chief executive FLYTIPPERS have been accused at Maidstone and Mid-Kent Mind, of costing farmers the earth by said: “Without donations such as dumping harmful waste in the this, the most vulnerable among us countryside. would not receive the support The latest figures released by the needed to live a healthy life.” Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) 999 targets show councils received 551 reports LOCAL ambulance services are of rubbish being dumped on farm- missing all the new national targets land in the South East in 2017/18. covering life-threatening, urgent Described as just the “tip of the and non-urgent calls. iceberg”, the Defra statistics, which For the two most urgent cate- log a national total of 79,307 cases, gories, the under-performance by do not include the majority of inci- Insurance specialist Will also have to worry about the dan- SECAmb is at least two minutes. dents on private land. Kendrick, who advises farmers in ger it poses to themselves, their An investigation is taking place. In Maidstone, 1,041 reports of the South East, said: “Flytipping workers, their animals and their flytipping were received during is not only visually impactful and land.” 2017/18, and there were 507 in Ton- a nuisance – it can be a source of He added: “In our experience, WI meeting bridge and Malling. pollution. there is a reluctant acceptance by AYLESFORD and Eccles Women’s When it comes to rubbish “The latest Defra figures show it farmers that flytipping is part of Institute’s annual meeting takes dumped in the countryside, esti- is not only everyday household everyday life, and they quietly deal place at the Brassey Centre at mates show farmers are cleaning waste that gets dumped – thou- with incidents. But for those unfor- 7.30pm on May 22. up after others at an average cost of sands of incidents involve asbestos, tunate enough to have a flytipping There will be a bring-and-buy £1,000 per incident. They are also clinical waste and chemical and ‘hotspot’ on their land, costs soon sale and raffle. For more details call liable to prosecution and fines if fuel waste. So farmers are not only tot up and pose a threat to their 01622 756960. the rubbish damages the land. forking out on clean-up costs but business.”

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8 Malling May 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Health gift MENTAL health charity Mind has been given £250 for its work by Farmers picking up customers of a multi-billion pound housing developer. The money was donated by peo- ple viewing new homes at Ley- bourne Chase in West Malling. the cost of flytipping Julie Blackmore, chief executive FLYTIPPERS have been accused at Maidstone and Mid-Kent Mind, of costing farmers the earth by said: “Without donations such as dumping harmful waste in the this, the most vulnerable among us countryside. would not receive the support The latest figures released by the needed to live a healthy life.” Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) 999 targets show councils received 551 reports LOCAL ambulance services are of rubbish being dumped on farm- missing all the new national targets land in the South East in 2017/18. covering life-threatening, urgent Described as just the “tip of the and non-urgent calls. iceberg”, the Defra statistics, which For the two most urgent cate- log a national total of 79,307 cases, gories, the under-performance by do not include the majority of inci- Insurance specialist Will also have to worry about the dan- SECAmb is at least two minutes. dents on private land. Kendrick, who advises farmers in ger it poses to themselves, their An investigation is taking place. In Maidstone, 1,041 reports of the South East, said: “Flytipping workers, their animals and their flytipping were received during is not only visually impactful and land.” 2017/18, and there were 507 in Ton- a nuisance – it can be a source of He added: “In our experience, WI meeting bridge and Malling. pollution. there is a reluctant acceptance by AYLESFORD and Eccles Women’s When it comes to rubbish “The latest Defra figures show it farmers that flytipping is part of Institute’s annual meeting takes dumped in the countryside, esti- is not only everyday household everyday life, and they quietly deal place at the Brassey Centre at mates show farmers are cleaning waste that gets dumped – thou- with incidents. But for those unfor- 7.30pm on May 22. up after others at an average cost of sands of incidents involve asbestos, tunate enough to have a flytipping There will be a bring-and-buy £1,000 per incident. They are also clinical waste and chemical and ‘hotspot’ on their land, costs soon sale and raffle. For more details call liable to prosecution and fines if fuel waste. So farmers are not only tot up and pose a threat to their 01622 756960. the rubbish damages the land. forking out on clean-up costs but business.”

Malling May 2019 9 News downsmail.co.uk Mental health help for youth M&S sets date for its A PUBLIC information evening on mental health problems faced by adolescents and young people, has been scheduled for June Eclipse retail outlet The free event at Snodland Com- munity Centre is open to everyone, MARKS & Spencer has signed a according to organisers from Snod- lease with Gallagher Properties land Medical Practice. on its new store off the M20, at Those who attend will be given Eclipse Park, Maidstone. an insight into recognising mental A spokesman for the retailer said health issues in young people, and “delays at the developer’s end” advice on how to support a child’s had pushed back an earlier forecast or adolescent’s mental well-being. that the store could open in Octo- The charity MIND will give a ber, but now it was hoped that presentation and answer ques- work would start on site. tions. A doctor from Snodland The store will sell clothes and Medical Practice will also be at- homeware, have a food hall, and a tending. café. And, at 7,808sqm (84,044sqft) The store will need up to 300 full in 2020 – serves as a vote of confi- John Stockham, chairman of the it will be larger than the one at and part-time staff. dence in the town. The store is de- practice’s patient participation nearby Hempstead Valley. Originally, Waitrose was ex- signed to attract shoppers from a group, said: “This evening will The new opening date of next pected to move onto the site, which wide catchment area. give an insight into how to recog- summer will bring the project is owned and being developed by The glass-fronted store will in- nise mental health problems early more in line with previously an- Gallagher’s, in spite of having clude Kentish ragstone, supplied and what to do about it. I hope nounced plans to close its Week plans approved by MBC in May by the Gallagher quarry in Her- many parents and others who Street store when the lease expires 2017. Gallagher hopes the M&S mitage Lane. want to know more will come in 2022. At the time, a spokesman store will attract further interest in It will be one of just two includ- along”. said: “The intention is that our the site, which also has permission ing clothing and homeware de- The event is at 7pm on Wednes- leasehold store will close either at for more offices and a hotel. partments, out of 36 planned by day, June 26. the end of the lease or, ideally, to Gallagher Group chairman Pat M&S as the retailer reshapes its More information will feature in allow staff to transfer to the new Gallagher says the store – the store estate. The other new outlets the June edition of Downs Mail. store at Eclipse Park.” largest being opened by the retailer will focus on M&S food.

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10 Malling May 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Mental health help for youth M&S sets date for its Top level specialist care at Eye 2 Eye A PUBLIC information evening Eye2Eye is already one of the top local Therapeutic Specialist Optometrist Chirag has commitment to provide the best service for on mental health problems faced providers of enhanced optical services - now been invited to join the team at Moorfield their patients, without compromise. Their by adolescents and young people, providing specialist eye care in the community Hospital in London as a specialist in the higher qualifications mean they are eye has been scheduled for June Eclipse retail outlet since 2012 - but now its expertise has been Glaucoma, Urgent Care and External disease & specialists - not just opticians - providing the The free event at Snodland Com- munity Centre is open to everyone, MARKS & Spencer has signed a taken to a whole new level. Cornea clinics. Chirag said: “It’s always been a only accredited Primary Care Acute according to organisers from Snod- lease with Gallagher Properties personal goal of mine to work and train with the Ophthalmology service for the Maidstone area. land Medical Practice. on its new store off the M20, at very best in the world, and I feel really grateful The brothers can, therefore, accept and treat a Those who attend will be given Eclipse Park, Maidstone. for the opportunity that has come my way.” wide range of emergency or acute eye an insight into recognising mental A spokesman for the retailer said Chirag will still work at Eye 2 Eye, bringing the referrals; walk-ins; optician or GP referrals; as health issues in young people, and “delays at the developer’s end” best care home to the practice’s patients, too. well as those from the NHS 111 service and advice on how to support a child’s had pushed back an earlier forecast The practice, in the Mid Kent Shopping A&E. Chirag and Manish are also part of a or adolescent’s mental well-being. that the store could open in Octo- Centre in Allington, is the only one of its kind select group of optometrists able to issue The charity MIND will give a ber, but now it was hoped that in Maidstone, with resident therapeutic prescriptions. This high quality offering extends presentation and answer ques- work would start on site. optometrists. to the practice’s state-of-the-art technology, tions. A doctor from Snodland The store will sell clothes and Brothers Chirag and Manish Patel have grown including equipment such as the OCT eye Medical Practice will also be at- homeware, have a food hall, and a up in the area and pride themselves on building scanner, and lenses used in their glasses from tending. café. And, at 7,808sqm (84,044sqft) The store will need up to 300 full in 2020 – serves as a vote of confi- a practice with a loyal following; They have a the world-renowned manufacturer Nikon. John Stockham, chairman of the it will be larger than the one at and part-time staff. dence in the town. The store is de- tremendous sense of community and a Come and experience the finest eye care in practice’s patient participation nearby Hempstead Valley. Originally, Waitrose was ex- signed to attract shoppers from a group, said: “This evening will The new opening date of next pected to move onto the site, which wide catchment area. the safest hands. give an insight into how to recog- summer will bring the project is owned and being developed by The glass-fronted store will in- nise mental health problems early more in line with previously an- Gallagher’s, in spite of having clude Kentish ragstone, supplied and what to do about it. I hope nounced plans to close its Week plans approved by MBC in May by the Gallagher quarry in Her- many parents and others who Street store when the lease expires 2017. Gallagher hopes the M&S mitage Lane. Find us at: want to know more will come in 2022. At the time, a spokesman store will attract further interest in It will be one of just two includ- along”. said: “The intention is that our the site, which also has permission ing clothing and homeware de- Unit 8, Mid-Kent Shopping Centre The event is at 7pm on Wednes- leasehold store will close either at for more offices and a hotel. partments, out of 36 planned by Castle Road, Allington, day, June 26. the end of the lease or, ideally, to Gallagher Group chairman Pat M&S as the retailer reshapes its Maidstone Kent ME16 0PU 01622 672563 More information will feature in allow staff to transfer to the new Gallagher says the store – the store estate. The other new outlets the June edition of Downs Mail. store at Eclipse Park.” largest being opened by the retailer will focus on M&S food. E:[email protected] www.eye2eye.care

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Malling March 2019 11 News downsmail.co.uk ‘We’ll make I’d have kept Stones things right’ IN HIS programme notes for Aldershot match, Stones’ chief ex- ecutive Bill Williams said: “We up, says ex-manager have failed this season and let everyone down. FORMER Maidstone United disappointing end.” “From the boardroom down to boss Jay Saunders claims he Asked where it went wrong for the management and the players, could have prevented the Stones’ the Stones, he said: “Getting rid of we have totally underachieved, relegation from the highest tier me. I have every confidence that and it really hurts. We all hold our of non-league football. they wouldn’t have been rele- hands up and apologise to all our The 40-year-old fans’ favourite gated had I been kept on.” supporters. was fired five games into the Jay was snapped up by Margate “But rest assured that we will t team coach, and helped 2018-19 season, after an indiffer- as firs all be finding the energy and ent start to the National League steer the club away from the rele- drive over the months ahead to season. gation zone. make things right.” His former boss and Stones’ But he was unable to agree a Speculating that few players will chief executive Bill Williams apol- permanent deal with the non- be left going into the new season, ogised to fans for having “under- league club and is currently out of Mr Williams added: “My gut feel- achieved” this season. work, although he is still involved ing is that for one reason or an- Father-of-four Jay said: “I was with coaching. other there will not be many of disappointed to see the Stones rel- Jay admitted that a rumoured this season’s players left and that egated. I was frustrated to lose move to Macclesfield Town last we are about to see the building my job, but that’s football and summer ahead of the 2018-19 sea- of a completely new team. things happen. son had put a strain on relations “This is not an easy exercise, so “You can’t hold onto it, but with Maidstone. I would ask everyone to show a have to let these things go, al- Asked if he would return to the bit of patience as the manage- though sometimes it seems like a Gallagher Stadium, he said: ment find the ways and means very long time ago. “Never say never in football.” to select the right types of talent “It is a club I have supported His name is being linked with a and character in their search for since I was a kid and it’s my vacancy at Sutton United who are new players.” home town team, so it was a very currently without a manager.

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Malling May 2019 13 14 Malling May 2019 Malling May 2019 15 News | Schools downsmail.co.uk School earns ‘glowing’ praise EDUCATION watchdogs have praised staff at a special school for their “relentless focus on raising standards”. Five Acre Wood – which oper- ates from sites in Loose, Snodland and Maidstone – has been desig- nated “outstanding” by Ofsted in- spectors. Officials Susan Conway and Catherine Davies say they quizzed pupils, ploughed through 48 par- ent questionnaire responses, analysed surveys from seven stu- dents and 99 members of staff, sorted through documentation and observed lessons before making their ruling. Publishing their findings last month following a school visit on March 28, Ms Conway said: “The leadership team, staff and gover- nors are passionate about the school and have high aspirations 300 staff, and is supported by a “My role at Five Acre Wood is to guiding and nurturing our stu- for the pupils … the curriculum is school nursing team, NHS physio- ensure, above all things, that our dents and giving them every pos- rich and highly-tailored to meet therapists, speech and language children are happy and safe. sible opportunity, both whilst they pupils’ needs.” therapists, and a family liaison “I know, because of the focus of are in our school and in their future Five Acre Wood caters for chil- team. my incredible senior leadership lives. dren and young people, aged two The school is based in Boughton team, as well as the work of my “The outstanding classification to 19, with profound, severe and Lane, Loose, but has satellite dedicated and passionate staff, that from Ofsted recognises that we are complex learning difficulties, in- classes at The Holmesdale School our students are happy and safe. doing this job to the very highest cluding autistic spectrum disorders. and Eastborough Primary. “This means we can get on with possible standard. It is a truly It has more than 425 pupils and Principal Peggy Murphy said the important job of educating, glowing report.” Give children Football match charity choice for Charlie CHILDREN as young as four A MEMORIAL match in honour should have a say in the charities of Aylesford’s Charlie Girling supported by their school, says will kick off at the county town’s new research. football ground at the end of The University of Kent and Can- June. terbury Christ Church University It will be the third match at the conducted a study into how much Gallagher Stadium, where Char- pupils aged four to eight under- lie was a keen supporter. The stand about helping good causes. student and Scout from Ayles- ford died after suffering an The results showed children asthma attack while at an inter- knew of charities they had been in- national Scouting jamboree in volved in, such as Children in Finland in 2016. He was 12 years Need and Comic Relief. old. But when researchers explained The game, on Friday, June 28, the concept of charitable giving, is again being organised by youngsters were able to formulate Charlie’s schoolmates at Maples- ideas, opting for homeless and den Noakes in Maidstone. His wildlife causes. classmates also created and opened a school garden in his memory, within earshot of the Abuse help football ground. VOLUNTEERS are going into Proceeds will be split between schools to tackle child abuse. his Scout group and the garden . The NSPCC has been running Pupils explore science labs The match will be held from 1- 2.30pm. workshops and events to help A DOZEN pupils from Snodland CEP Primary were invited to spend time Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 children stay out of harm’s way, in the laboratories at “big school”. for children on the gate. Mem- using a mascot called Buddy to The students were guests of The Malling School. bers of the public are welcome, explain types of abuse to primary A spokesman said: “The super scientists learnt important safety rules as are friends and family of the pupils aged four to 11. in order to achieve their ‘Bunsen Burner Licence’ and then conducted a students, the school and the A free school visit can be ‘fizz pop’ experiment.” arranged at www.nspcc.org.uk. Scout group.

16 Malling May 2019 News | Schools downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Schools | News Marathon joy School earns ‘glowing’ praise Mum and son hoping for PE teacher HEAD of PE at the Aylesford EDUCATION watchdogs have praised staff at a special school for their “relentless focus on School, Alex Groom, has success- raising standards”. fully completed the London for success in GCSEs Marathon – and is hoping to raise Five Acre Wood – which oper- £2,000 for charity. ates from sites in Loose, Snodland RESULTS day this summer will be a special moment for two members of It was the culmination of three and Maidstone – has been desig- years of preparation and resulted nated “outstanding” by Ofsted in- The Malling School (TMS). in a time of 3hrs 56mins. spectors. Injury blighted one attempt at Officials Susan Conway and It turns out that Ellen Askew, a dinner lady at the school, and her the Brighton marathon and Alex Catherine Davies say they quizzed son Luke are both sitting the same had to withdraw from another pupils, ploughed through 48 par- GCSE this year. after a similar niggle. ent questionnaire responses, With the exam season just This year, the problem rec- analysed surveys from seven stu- around the corner, the TMS Jour- curred ahead of the London race, dents and 99 members of staff, nalism Club unearthed the story but with the help of a physio he sorted through documentation and and interviewed the pair. was able to make it. observed lessons before making Mum and son (pictured) both Mr Groom said: “I achieved a their ruling. live in Larkfield, and will be sit- time of 3.56 and raised over Publishing their findings last ting their English GCSEs coming £1,600. Suddenly, all those long month following a school visit on up this month and in June. runs and hours spent in the gym March 28, Ms Conway said: “The Mrs Askew (49) said: “I'm paid off. leadership team, staff and gover- doing the GCSE now because I “At times, I was close to conced- nors are passionate about the want to do my level three coun- ing defeat with the injury, but I school and have high aspirations 300 staff, and is supported by a “My role at Five Acre Wood is to guiding and nurturing our stu- selling course. am glad I showed the courage school nursing team, NHS physio- ensure, above all things, that our dents and giving them every pos- for the pupils … the curriculum is “Sometimes I find it hard, but and resilience to carry on and therapists, speech and language children are happy and safe. sible opportunity, both whilst they rich and highly-tailored to meet when I’m stuck I ask Luke for achieve my goal. The feeling at therapists, and a family liaison “I know, because of the focus of are in our school and in their future pupils’ needs.” help, although we do not study the finish line was incredible.” team. my incredible senior leadership lives. Five Acre Wood caters for chil- together. There is no competition dren and young people, aged two The school is based in Boughton team, as well as the work of my “The outstanding classification between us.” to 19, with profound, severe and Lane, Loose, but has satellite dedicated and passionate staff, that from Ofsted recognises that we are She will be sitting her exams at Exam stress complex learning difficulties, in- classes at The Holmesdale School our students are happy and safe. doing this job to the very highest Hadlow College. THE exam season is upon us and, cluding autistic spectrum disorders. and Eastborough Primary. “This means we can get on with possible standard. It is a truly Luke, who has been at the It has more than 425 pupils and Principal Peggy Murphy said the important job of educating, glowing report.” with it, comes pressure which school since year seven, said: “I sends many students to seek help. am currently finding it tiring and Teens end up overwhelmed by Give children Football match irritating. I’m finding it fairly easy the stresses of parental expecta- at the moment, although when I tion, exam performance and peer need help, I have to go to my wait to hear the final results in Au- open doors for young people.” pressure. charity choice for Charlie teacher as my mother cannot help gust.” The head took over from Carl Childline volunteers delivered CHILDREN as young as four A MEMORIAL match in honour me!” Mr Vennart is a keen supporter Roberts, who left to take up a role more than 3,000 counselling ses- should have a say in the charities of Aylesford’s Charlie Girling Head teacher John Vennart said: of the TMS Journalism Club as a in the Middle East, last September. sions on exam stress to teenagers, supported by their school, says will kick off at the county town’s “It just goes to show that just be- way of developing students’ writ- The school is currently rated as 20% in the month of May. new research. football ground at the end of cause you’ve left school, you don’t ing skills, confidence building and “good” by the education watch- Of these, 50% of the recipients The University of Kent and Can- June. stop learning. Like all of the stu- gaining experience of the real dog Ofsted. were aged 12 to 15. terbury Christ Church University It will be the third match at the dents this year, we wish Mrs world. TMS reporting team: Eboni The prospect of taking exams Gallagher Stadium, where Char- conducted a study into how much Askew and Luke both the best of He added: “Extra-curricular Gladdish, Evie Webster, Lily had an adverse effect on mental lie was a keen supporter. The pupils aged four to eight under- luck with their GCSEs and cannot clubs like our Journalism Club can Shutt and Morgan Lawrence. health, leading to, in some cases, student and Scout from Ayles- stand about helping good causes. self-harming, depression and anx- ford died after suffering an The results showed children iety, said the charity. asthma attack while at an inter- knew of charities they had been in- national Scouting jamboree in Childline is available 24 hours a volved in, such as Children in Finland in 2016. He was 12 years Aaliyah’s call to cut speeding day on 0800 1111 or at Need and Comic Relief. old. www.childline.org.uk. A PUPIL at The Malling School cidents have already happened ity to make a change. But when researchers explained The game, on Friday, June 28, has launched a petition against to our students that were not Local resident John Howling the concept of charitable giving, is again being organised by speeding on two roads near her their fault. Speed has always commented: “I live nearby and youngsters were able to formulate Charlie’s schoolmates at Maples- Charity cut classes. been the issue - even when ve- have seen New Road become ideas, opting for homeless and den Noakes in Maidstone. His A 10-YEAR-OLD Allington Pri- Aaliyah Kennedy is cam- hicles are travelling at the cur- much busier in recent years wildlife causes. classmates also created and mary School pupil has been rais- paigning to have the limits in rent legal speed.” with too many speeding driv- opened a school garden in his ing money for a charity which New Road (currently 40mph) She cites the recent example ers. memory, within earshot of the helps children who lose their hair and Beech Road (30mph) low- of a student who was hit by a “I would like to see the limit Abuse help football ground. due to cancer. ered drastically to make them car as he cycled out of New reduced to 30mph and think a VOLUNTEERS are going into Proceeds will be split between Finnley Bradley grew his blond safer. Road into Beech Road. further reduction to 20mph schools to tackle child abuse. his Scout group and the garden . hair long in order to have it The student is arguing for a Aaliyah adds: “We would like limit should also be considered The NSPCC has been running The match will be held from 1- chopped off, raising £3,600 for the Pupils explore science labs reduction of 10mph of each. to make a change in our com- near to the Beech Road junc- workshops and events to help 2.30pm. A DOZEN pupils from Snodland CEP Primary were invited to spend time Beech Road, argues Aaliyah, munity where parents feel that tion. Beech Road itself should Little Princess Trust. children stay out of harm’s way, Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 in the laboratories at “big school”. has blind spots while New their children are safe travel- have a 20mph limit. Well done The trust makes wigs for young using a mascot called Buddy to for children on the gate. Mem- The students were guests of The Malling School. Road suffers from a speeding ling to and from school.” for raising the issue.” cancer sufferers who lose their explain types of abuse to primary bers of the public are welcome, A spokesman said: “The super scientists learnt important safety rules problem, making it dangerous So far, the petition has at- The petition can be accessed hair during chemotherapy. pupils aged four to 11. as are friends and family of the in order to achieve their ‘Bunsen Burner Licence’ and then conducted a to cycle there. tracted 250 signatures and could on The Malling School’s web- Finnley had his shoulder-length A free school visit can be students, the school and the ‘fizz pop’ experiment.” Her petition states: “Many in- influence the highways author- site. locks cut at the Bush Barbers in arranged at www.nspcc.org.uk. Scout group. West Malling.

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Support service for elderly to close

MALLING Age Concern Centre will close at the end of this money to ensure all staff costs are paid until the closure at the month, trustees have told clients. end of May. The charity advised Kent County Council (KCC) of financial “However, it has been clear for some time that MAC was difficulties some months ago, and KCC staff were working with struggling financially, and were looking for bigger premises to the centre to find ways to keep it open. enable them to work with a larger number of clients. Clients The closure, on May 31, will lead to the loss of day care were also being brought to the centre increasingly from further help for older people. afield, requiring the use of more adapted vehicles, and higher KCC and MAC centre staff say they are now working with transport costs according to their published accounts. each client to find a suitable alternative provision, where their “At the same time, government cuts to Kent County Council needs can be met. meant there was less money to pass on, and MAC, like all The centre, like many council services, has been struggling other centres of its type, suffered a grant reduction of 1.4% this to cope with rising costs and falling income. County councillor year, amounting to around £2,000.” Trudy Dean understands that a potential merger with nearby Councillors say the underlying problem is that governments Age UK organisations was halted when the financial situation over many years have failed to provide enough funds for care at MAC became clear. for the elderly. The centre is a registered charity and its private financial The Local Government Association estimates there is a affairs are not fully open to Kent County Council, which minimum shortfall of £2 billion nationally over what is needed. provides grant support. As a result, it is not known whether Lengthy consultation on how to pay for elderly care began a there are outstanding debts, or who is now responsible for few years ago, and a decision has been expected ever since. sorting out its insolvency. A major Green Paper setting out government plans was Cllr Dean said: “I understand that KCC has provided extra expected in April 2017 and has been delayed several times.

A Malling Action Partnership publication This isn’t recycling - it’s flytipping

THE Saturday bulky waste collection service run by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council is very popular. But people must be present at the site to load their rubbish into the freighter. This is to prevent commercial businesses using the service, and to protect nearby residents from rubbish piling up near their homes perhaps for a few days, with all the problems of rats and foxes, and dangers of rubbish blowing around affecting residents and their property. A mattress, which has been rained on for a few hours, is not pleasant or easy to lift. A discarded sheet of plywood can blow into a car windscreen or a child. If rubbish is left beforehand, it will not be collected by the freighter crew, but a special collection will be sent to clear away what is regarded as flytipping. TMBC warns that prosecution may result if waste is left beforehand, and it may lead to the loss of the service from the site. There have been problems at the Winterfield Lane site (pictured) and West Malling Village Hall. Developer by-passes council in homes bid

AN application by Bellway Homes for more than 70 houses on land between West Malling Station and St Mary’s Abbey is now set to be decided by a government Inspector. Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has failed to give a decision on the application within the required time period of six weeks. This entitles Bellway to by-pass the borough planning process and opt, instead, for an “Appeal for non-Determination” which will be conducted by an inspector. TMBC’s Planning Committee is, nevertheless, expected to consider the application at its meeting on May 29. Members will need to agree the grounds for refusal on which officers will base their arguments at the appeal. Opponents believe Bellway is likely to base its argument in favour of granting permission on the borough council’s failure to provide a five year land bank of permitted development land at all times. Government rules say that when this happens, inspectors should grant permission unless there are exceptional reasons why they should not. West Malling and East Malling and Larkfield Parish Councils and Protect West Malling Group, will argue that the effect of the development on the quiet setting of St Marys Abbey, an Ancient Scheduled Monument, and the rural setting of the station, will provide the necessary exceptional circumstances to refuse the application. Trudy Dean, chairman of West Malling Parish Council, said: “I think people will be appalled once more at our planning system which seems hell bent on favouring the developer. If this development goes ahead it will ruin the wonderful feeling of stepping out of the station into real countryside, and also ruin the quiet setting of the Abbey which is home to a contemplative family of nuns, and which welcomes many guests on retreat from the stress of daily life.”

West Malling Parish Council Report

Allotments August 10 and 24. Volunteer sessions run neighbour. The bin, which is brown, has Have you thought about growing your between 10am and noon. Tools are pro- a 240 litre capacity. You can have a 140 own vegetables? Good size, easy man- vided, please wear sturdy shoes or wellies. litre model, but the cost is the same. You ageable plots are available at the Ryarsh can order up to three bins. The second Lane Allotments. If you are a resident Fire destroys haystack and third will be charged at £25 pa. within the West Malling Parish, you can A COUPLE of weeks ago the haystack in Ring 01732 876147 or register online at secure a plot with a refundable deposit Macey’s Meadow was set on fire and half TMBC’s website. of £50 and a yearly rent of £15. Please the crop lost. If anyone has any informa- contact the parish clerk on 01732 tion on the people responsible, please ring Pocahontas 870872 for further information. Trudy Dean on 01732 843119. THE Malling Society meeting on Tuesday, June 18, is called “Pocahontas - the non-Dis- Macey’s Meadow Volunteer Dates TMBC garden waste ney Story”. It includes an illustrated talk by To get an idea of the work done, why RESIDENTS can now sign up for the Christoph Bull, tour guide, speaker, historical not join one of the working party days? Early Bird rate of £35 for their garden adviser and mace bearer for Gravesham Bor- Upcoming dates are, Saturday May 18, waste bin collection from September. You ough Council. It is at West Malling Primary June 1, 15 and 29, July 13 and 27, and can share a garden waste bin with your School, Norman Road, 8pm Token gesture What’s On

PLEASE take your blue tokens in Tesco’s and pop them in the Friday, May 17 box for Music@malling. The money they get goes towards Enjoy a walk along an ancient trackway to Yotes Court, where fantastic work with children from local primary schools Swanton Manor once stood. Participants will then use the composing music, which they will then performed in a series of Landway to see the strawberry tunnels that provide the fruit concerts at St Marys Church, West Malling, in September. The for Wimbledon. Walkers are advised to arrive at St Lawrence children work with professional musicians and artists, learning Church, Mereworth, at least 10 minutes before 2pm. For more about composition, and playing instruments in an orchestra information, contact Viv Bennet at [email protected] or with professionals and conductor Tom Kemp. They also have 01732 872 892. fantastic fun. Wednesday, May 22 The Larkfield Women’s Club is holding a shopping and pamper Healthy interest evening in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society and The National Women’s Association. Come and join in for a fun evening MEDICS are hosting free workshops to highlight issues around of shopping and relaxing, with lots of stalls and treatments prostate and bladder cancer – statistically the most fatal cancers available. Refreshments are available. Entrance fee is 50p. The for men. event runs from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Church Farm. Two leading male cancer specialists will host the session on Wednesday, June 5, at Genesis Care, 17 Kings Hill Avenue, Friday, May 24 ME19 4UA. The principal, trustees and staff of St Augustine’s invite you to Food and drink will be served from 6.30pm, and the St Augustine’s Day 2019. Arrive at 4pm for afternoon tea, and illustrated workshop will start at 7.00pm. a buffet reception at 6pm. If you require more than two tickets, Please email Barry Evans, at [email protected] and put please contact [email protected]. The event “Men’s Health” in the subject line to reserve your place. Places will run from 4pm to 8pm at St Mary’s Abbey, West Malling. are limited to 60. Sunday, May 26 West Malling Farmers Market offers a great selection of local Best buddies food, drink and some craft including meat, cheese, fish, pies, cider, wines, teas, game, honey, plants and jewellery. The farmers market has free parking available. The event is from LARKFIELD Community Group is setting up a ‘buddy group’ 9.30am to 1.30pm along the bustling West Malling High Street. of people who would be willing to help a lonely or isolated person enjoy life a bit more. Regular meetings are being held in Saturday, June 15 Larkfield to recruit volunteers. If you are interested, ring Jackie Come along to the Mereworth Summer Fete at Queen Hirsch on 07563 196479 Elizabeth II field. Enjoy live music from the Kings Hill Rock Choir, face painting, BBQ, tea and cakes. The event runs from Food for thought 2.00pm to 4.30pm. Saturday, June 22 THE Community Larder in East Malling distributes food every The Kings Hill Music Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Friday at 10am from the Chapman Way Centre. Kent’s leading soul band, Loose Change, The Kick Backs party The larder is different from a food bank. The Fairshare band, Josh Hassell and Olivia Rose will all be performing their Charity delivers surplus supermarket goods to the centre each own songs. The fantastic funky GrooveZoo and a Tina Turner week. These include fresh meat, cheese, veg and fruit as well as tribute will also be in attendance. Please purchase tickets in tins and packets. advance through the music festival’s Facebook page. Children Having taken what is needed for the community cafe, the under 16 are free. The event is from 1.00pm to 10.00pm at rest is distributed to local residents on a “take what you need, The Spitfire. pay what you can basis”. The delivery arrives on Friday mornings. There is no need for Saturday, June 29 a referral or any restrictions on number of visits. Most people Come along to the annual Ryarsh village fete from 1pm to 5pm. pay something- £5 a bag is the expected donation. But if Enjoy a large selection of stalls, funfair, food, games, beer, live someone is really hard up, the food is given away, or the larder music and a car show. The event will be on the village green. takes smaller donations. Sunday, June 30 The Ryashes invite you to their annual cricket match on the village green, where North Ryarsh will face off against South Ryarsh in an attempt to regain the trophy and title of village victors, in a good-hearted 20-over match, overseen by experienced referee Andy Beard. Spectators are very welcome, the match kicks off at 12:30.

Sunday, July 7 Larkfield Community Group is hosting its annual summer event on the Recreation Ground. Enjoy stalls, music, displays, raffle, tombola, beer tent, food, dog competition, children’s fancy dress and more. Bring a picnic and stay for the afternoon. The event runs from 1pm to 4pm. East Malling and Larkfield Parish Council Report

Belle Court shop to open for Leybourne Park play area. The New Belvedere Oast access decision The ground floor retail premises at Belle residents association is choosing what deferred Court flats, near the Morrisons junction at to buy. An application to create a new safer Larkfield, is to open as a kitchen equip- Wateringbury Road access for Belvedere ment store. Planning consent exists for Footpath change Oast, between the chicane and The the store, but permission is being request- The parish council has received notice Heath crossroads, led to an extraordi- ed for a change in the colour scheme of of an application for a change of nary committee discussion. The KCC the frontage to fit the shop brand. It will status on the definitive footpath map Highways expert recommended refusal be great to see this property opening after for footpath MR114, which runs from on the basis that the access did not meet having been boarded up for so long. The Heath to Teston Road close to the KCC sightline requirements for a 40mph ancient woodland of Warren Wood. stretch of road. Councillors protested that Bin Collection Roadshow comes to The application has been made by the the new access was, nevertheless, safer Lunsford Tesco Byways and Bridleways Association for than the existing arrangement, and that There will be a roadshow to explain the the footpath to become an “Old Road”. KCC had refused to drop the speed limit new TMBC bin collection service at Tesco’s This would mean it could be used by to 30 mph. This was accepted, but did Leybourne Way store on June 21 from 9 walkers, horse riders and cyclists, and not alter his objection. to 3.30pm. Residents who have queries KCC would be responsible for pro- The parish council argued that, whilst the can go along and get some answers from tecting the historic width of the path, new access might not be perfect, it was officers on how the scheme, which is due which is that suitable for a cart. It is the best that could be achieved within to start in September, is expected to work. important that the line of this path is the land owned by the applicant, and identified and protected in the light of should be supported. Leybourne Park play equipment the current application from Liberty Councillors deferred making a decision to The parish council has set aside £1,000 Trust for further housing on meadows give the applicant time to collect speed to buy a new piece of play equipment adjacent to the path. data for traffic at this point in the road.

New crossing lights to impact road safety

HIGHWAYS bosses have revealed that a new design of there is no need to look for a green man as it will be behind crossing lights at the New Road - London Road junction, them and the lights will not release vehicles until people are Larkfield, will be rolled out across the county, despite safely across the road. complaints. There is no audible signal at the crossing but every push Pedestrians are concerned they cannot see the green man button has a rotating cone beneath, which is active when the signal as they cross, as it no longer appears on the other side green man is lit, to help those with visual impairments. We do of the crossing. There have also been complaints about the not install audible indicators at junctions with multiple crossings absence of the beeping sound, which indicates the safe crossing as it is possible to overhear the sound from adjacent crossings period for people with limited sight. which may not be safe to use at that moment. This is similar to Toby Howe, from KCC Highways, responded to questions the situation with the Tonbridge Station lights but it is omitted from local councillor Trudy Dean with this explanation. by design in order to protect pedestrians.” He said: “We are no longer legally able to install far-sided Cllr Dean said: “I feel the lack of a visible green man sign red/green figures for pedestrians on the crossing. These must whilst you are crossing the road may confuse and worry people now be near-sided units and the red/green symbols appear about whether they have time to cross. The rotating cone above the ‘wait’ button - all new crossings will be of this type. button which is meant to show a person with sight problems “Whilst the green man is illuminated for a very short time, that they can cross depends upon them being able to reach it, the crossing uses detectors to extend the time for pedestrians. and I worry how reliable it will be over time. Therefore, slower people or large groups will receive a longer “This experiment needs watching carefully and I would time to cross the carriageway. Once pedestrians begin to cross, welcome people’s comments. “

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 East Malling and Larkfield Parish Council Report

Belle Court shop to open for Leybourne Park play area. The New Belvedere Oast access decision The ground floor retail premises at Belle residents association is choosing what deferred Court flats, near the Morrisons junction at to buy. An application to create a new safer Larkfield, is to open as a kitchen equip- Wateringbury Road access for Belvedere The place for plants Summer Colour ment store. Planning consent exists for Footpath change Oast, between the chicane and The the store, but permission is being request- The parish council has received notice Heath crossroads, led to an extraordi- starts here ed for a change in the colour scheme of of an application for a change of nary committee discussion. The KCC the frontage to fit the shop brand. It will status on the definitive footpath map Highways expert recommended refusal be great to see this property opening after for footpath MR114, which runs from on the basis that the access did not meet having been boarded up for so long. The Heath to Teston Road close to the KCC sightline requirements for a 40mph ancient woodland of Warren Wood. stretch of road. Councillors protested that Bin Collection Roadshow comes to The application has been made by the the new access was, nevertheless, safer Lunsford Tesco Byways and Bridleways Association for than the existing arrangement, and that There will be a roadshow to explain the the footpath to become an “Old Road”. KCC had refused to drop the speed limit new TMBC bin collection service at Tesco’s This would mean it could be used by to 30 mph. This was accepted, but did Leybourne Way store on June 21 from 9 walkers, horse riders and cyclists, and not alter his objection. to 3.30pm. Residents who have queries KCC would be responsible for pro- The parish council argued that, whilst the can go along and get some answers from tecting the historic width of the path, new access might not be perfect, it was officers on how the scheme, which is due which is that suitable for a cart. It is the best that could be achieved within Jumbo Upright Geraniums to start in September, is expected to work. important that the line of this path is the land owned by the applicant, and identified and protected in the light of should be supported. Leybourne Park play equipment the current application from Liberty Councillors deferred making a decision to The parish council has set aside £1,000 Trust for further housing on meadows give the applicant time to collect speed to buy a new piece of play equipment adjacent to the path. data for traffic at this point in the road.

New crossing lights to impact road safety

HIGHWAYS bosses have revealed that a new design of there is no need to look for a green man as it will be behind crossing lights at the New Road - London Road junction, them and the lights will not release vehicles until people are Mesembryanthemum Larkfield, will be rolled out across the county, despite safely across the road. complaints. There is no audible signal at the crossing but every push Pedestrians are concerned they cannot see the green man button has a rotating cone beneath, which is active when the signal as they cross, as it no longer appears on the other side green man is lit, to help those with visual impairments. We do of the crossing. There have also been complaints about the not install audible indicators at junctions with multiple crossings absence of the beeping sound, which indicates the safe crossing as it is possible to overhear the sound from adjacent crossings period for people with limited sight. which may not be safe to use at that moment. This is similar to Toby Howe, from KCC Highways, responded to questions the situation with the Tonbridge Station lights but it is omitted from local councillor Trudy Dean with this explanation. by design in order to protect pedestrians.” He said: “We are no longer legally able to install far-sided Cllr Dean said: “I feel the lack of a visible green man sign red/green figures for pedestrians on the crossing. These must whilst you are crossing the road may confuse and worry people now be near-sided units and the red/green symbols appear about whether they have time to cross. The rotating cone above the ‘wait’ button - all new crossings will be of this type. button which is meant to show a person with sight problems “Whilst the green man is illuminated for a very short time, that they can cross depends upon them being able to reach it, Geum ‘Tequilla Sunrise’ Osteospermum ‘Tresco Purple’ and Salvia ‘Ostfriesland’ the crossing uses detectors to extend the time for pedestrians. and I worry how reliable it will be over time. Therefore, slower people or large groups will receive a longer “This experiment needs watching carefully and I would Many of you choose to visit us for our time to cross the carriageway. Once pedestrians begin to cross, welcome people’s comments. “ Rushmore Hill knowledgeable staff and our large range and Knockholt, TN14 7NN quality of plants, but did you know that we grow the majority of our plants ourselves on 01959 532269 our Nursery at Coolings Rushmore Hill?

01959 532269 www.coolings.co.uk LOCAL CONTACTS Pothole reporting – T: 08458 247800 Supported by Trudy Dean, Malling Action Partnership chairman Ashford Road (A20), Bearsted, Maidstone, ME14 4NH 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 Malling May 2019 19 News downsmail.co.uk Staying active LEYBOURNE Active Retirement Association (LeyARA) meets at Footballers team up the village hall on the second Thursday of each month from 2- 4pm. It has guest speakers or enter- tainers, raffles, and a chance to with fitness charity chat over tea and biscuits. There A FITNESS charity has joined are also visits to shows or places of interest. On the first, third and forces with Larkfield Ladies Foot- fourth Thursday of each month, ball Club to encourage more peo- there is an activities afternoon at ple to exercise. the hall, with bingo, card games, The non-profit organisation, arts and crafts, computer club and tmactive, is run by Tonbridge and new age kurling. Malling Leisure Trust to provide On Fridays, the hall hosts Le- sport and leisure facilities on be- yARA’s short mat bowls contests. half of the borough council. For details call the association’s The partnership with the foot- secretary on 01732 846050 or ball club is the latest in a series of 07568 305898. moves to encourage people to achieve at least 150 minutes of ex- ercise per week. Target missed Martin Guyton, chief executive MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge of tmactive, said: “We are de- Wells hospital trust is still seri- lighted to sponsor the team. Lark- ously missing cancer targets – and field Ladies FC is a great example for the team. We look forward to cal activity. The ladies’ football West Kent CCG continues its of people getting together to get working with them, specifically team is part of Larkfield FC, an harm review process. active in their community.” by supporting and running activ- FA charter standard community To date there has been no ex- The club has also received a ities for their tmactive150 pro- club established in 1976. ample of patient harm due to de- tmactive-sponsored kit. gramme.” The club runs both men and lays. The national target for Larkfield Ladies FC chairman The tmactive150 programme women’s football for a wide treatment within 62 days from di- Russell Jeffery said: “We thank addresses issues and barriers that range of ages, including veterans’ agnosis is 95%, but the trust tmactive for their sponsorship in may prevent local people from teams and children’s teams for achieved only 63.3% in January. what is an exciting fourth season participating and enjoying physi- both genders.

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Malling April 2019 21 News downsmail.co.uk Events plan rocks village WITH a medieval jousting quintain planted firmly in the village green’s heart, Offham has been a bulwark of English stability and tradition for more than a thousand years. But scratch the surface, and this ancient parish is struggling to come to terms with a modern dilemma ... the 21st century diver- sification of the very farmland that defines it. Polytunnels, tractors and trucks Offham villagers hold no fear for a community that have mobilised traces its roots back to the Anglo- against plans for Saxon ninth century. Introduce the a wedding venue potential threat of lairy revellers at a local farm, shattering the evening peace, how- which has been ever, and hackles rightly rise. granted planning So when landowner Ian Barwick permission for 12 first mooted the idea of turning part of his property, Kentfield months Farm, into a wedding and event council was inundated with objec- around 60 rare breed sheep on the given the land is not currently self- venue with marquee and holiday tions. land, 10 to 15 Sussex cattle, 50 to 70 sufficient, other options need to be pods, the community mobilised. “It’s not a witch hunt. I know Mr pigs, pheasant and ducks, 30 chick- considered.” Stung by the farm’s earlier foray Barwick is sincere in his desire to ens, 12 guinea fowl, four peacocks, Along with 60 acres at Ashtree into musical entertainment, which mitigate any impact on the village eight alpacas, deer and horses. Farm and 130 acres he leases at the resulted in substantial noise and, if he’s successful, residents She added that Mr Barwick’s rear of Blaise Farm quarry, Mr Bar- “rolling down into the village”, will accept what he’s doing. But it’s team had planted hedgerows and wick already oversees farmland residents fear that, with more than fair to say they’re pretty sceptical. hundreds of trees and created a that has diversified into game 20 proposed weddings and events We’re a farming community, but conservation lake. This had shooting, commercial operations, in the offing, they could be saddled this is something very different.” boosted the land’s ecology, with off-road activities and 4x4 training, with summer evenings heavy with For Mr Barwick, the argument is more than 65 species of native and a removals business. the sound of partying and late simple. Returning the 150-acre birds, badgers, hedgehogs, bats Borough planning chiefs have night vehicle movements … every property to its original dairy and and three species of wild deer. now given him the green light for a single weekend. soft fruit operation is just not fi- But she said: “To maintain this 12-month trial of his wedding pro- Former parish council chairman nancially viable. land to these high standards bears posals, subject to strict conditions. David Frankling told Downs Mail: His agent, Glenda Egerton, told significant day-to-day costs, which The villagers of Offham say they “It’s the most contentious issue borough council planners there is have thus far come from private will be watching – and listening – we’ve ever had in the village. The still low-intensity farming of funds. This is unsustainable and, very carefully. Non-stop buzz Cash help for for Oliver! football clubs Oliver! GRANTS of £750 could keep local The Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone football teams turning out in Kent. THE old musicals take a lot of The Football Association has re- beating – and Maidstone Amateur launched its Stay in the Game Operatic Society proved this yet scheme to halt a decline in adult again with a magnificent per- male teams by offering grants to formance of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! struggling clubs. The house-full audience buzzed Wendy Hiller, Tomiwa James, Judith Sloan, Lisa Burns, with radiologists Eleven-a-side teams have until from the colourful, rousing open- Ferdenah Munroe, Wayde Morgan, Abin Babu and David Brown Thursday, June 6 to apply for the ing of “Food, Glorious Food” and help to cover the costs of running a never came off an appreciative, football team. excited high. Praise for scan centre Paul Simpson, England under- The young cast, with many de- AN imaging service for cancer pa- showcase the fantastic work the 20s head coach, said: “We are seeing lightful schoolchildren, were ob- tients in Maidstone has been team does. viously enjoying themselves, and adult male players move from 11-a- praised by a government watchdog. “The team is proud of the unit side football into more casual for- new choreographer Katy Russell Maidstone PET-CT Centre at the and the facilities it provides for pa- proved what can be achieved on mats of the game. One of the town’s hospital in Hermitage Lane, tients, and was pleased the CQC reasons is clubs lacking money. the small Hazlitt stage. which provides diagnostic and recognised its efforts.” “Last year’s roll-out of the scheme The show demands a strong screening procedures, was rated The report identified three areas saw some really positive strides.” Fagin (Dave Rowe) and Nancy “good” by the Care Quality Com- for further improvements. The scheme helped to retain 2,336 (Heather Cheeseman) and both mission. Mr Brown added: “The team wel- shone, notably when singing their Maidstone PET-CT unit manager comes this feedback as an opportu- adult male teams across the country popular strong numbers. David Brown said: “This was our first nity to develop the service further, last year. For details contact the Maidstone’s message surely is: inspection by CQC since opening in and is working to implement these County FA or visit www.football- Come back soon. 2017. It was a great opportunity to recommendations.” foundation.org.uk/funding- Review byDennis Fowle schemes/stay-in-the-game/.

22 Malling April 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Events plan rocks village Call for the WITH a medieval jousting quintain planted firmly in the village green’s heart, Offham has been a bulwark of English stability and tradition for more than a thousand years. But scratch the surface, and this ancient parish is struggling to come to terms with a modern dilemma ... the 21st century diver- sification of the very farmland that defines it. Puma Pvc Offham villagers MAINTENANCE FREE UPVC EXTERIORS Polytunnels, tractors and trucks THE MODERN ALTERNATIVE TO WOOD hold no fear for a community that have mobilised traces its roots back to the Anglo- against plans for Saxon ninth century. 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I know Mr pigs, pheasant and ducks, 30 chick- considered.” pods, the community mobilised. WWW.JOHNCHILDS.COM of coloured Cladding Stung by the farm’s earlier foray Barwick is sincere in his desire to ens, 12 guinea fowl, four peacocks, Along with 60 acres at Ashtree into musical entertainment, which mitigate any impact on the village eight alpacas, deer and horses. Farm and 130 acres he leases at the CLADDING - GUTTERING & DOWNPIPES - FASCIAS - SOFFITS resulted in substantial noise and, if he’s successful, residents She added that Mr Barwick’s rear of Blaise Farm quarry, Mr Bar- “rolling down into the village”, will accept what he’s doing. But it’s team had planted hedgerows and wick already oversees farmland * MEDWAY’S LEADING APPROVED INSTALLER residents fear that, with more than fair to say they’re pretty sceptical. hundreds of trees and created a that has diversified into game WE GUARANTEE TO BEAT ANY COMPETITOR’S PRICE 20 proposed weddings and events We’re a farming community, but conservation lake. This had shooting, commercial operations, in the offing, they could be saddled this is something very different.” boosted the land’s ecology, with off-road activities and 4x4 training, with summer evenings heavy with For Mr Barwick, the argument is more than 65 species of native and a removals business. Approved the sound of partying and late simple. Returning the 150-acre birds, badgers, hedgehogs, bats Borough planning chiefs have BSI. 4576 Installer night vehicle movements … every property to its original dairy and and three species of wild deer. now given him the green light for a single weekend. soft fruit operation is just not fi- But she said: “To maintain this 12-month trial of his wedding pro- CALL NOW FOR A FREE QUOTATION : Former parish council chairman nancially viable. land to these high standards bears posals, subject to strict conditions. David Frankling told Downs Mail: His agent, Glenda Egerton, told significant day-to-day costs, which The villagers of Offham say they 01634 351575 07910 425 544 “It’s the most contentious issue borough council planners there is have thus far come from private will be watching – and listening – www.pumapvc.co.uk we’ve ever had in the village. The still low-intensity farming of funds. This is unsustainable and, very carefully. Non-stop buzz Cash help for THE for Oliver! football clubs Oliver! GRANTS of £750 could keep local FIREPLACE The Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone football teams turning out in Kent. THE old musicals take a lot of The Football Association has re- 01795 599234 www.thefireplacesittingbourne.co.uk beating – and Maidstone Amateur launched its Stay in the Game Operatic Society proved this yet scheme to halt a decline in adult • Multifuel, woodburning again with a magnificent per- male teams by offering grants to • MOT • Servicing • Repairs • Cambelts and gas stoves formance of Lionel Bart’s Oliver! 2 Castle Court struggling clubs. • Clutches • Springs and Shocks Castle Road The house-full audience buzzed Wendy Hiller, Tomiwa James, Judith Sloan, Lisa Burns, with radiologists Eleven-a-side teams have until • Electric, gas & solid from the colourful, rousing open- Eurolink Industrial Ferdenah Munroe, Wayde Morgan, Abin Babu and David Brown Thursday, June 6 to apply for the ing of “Food, Glorious Food” and • Diagnostics • Air Conditioning Estate fuel fires help to cover the costs of running a never came off an appreciative, Sittingbourne football team. • Marble, wood & stone excited high. ME10 3TD Praise for scan centre Paul Simpson, England under- The young cast, with many de- surrounds AN imaging service for cancer pa- showcase the fantastic work the 20s head coach, said: “We are seeing Tyres • Exhausts • Tracking lightful schoolchildren, were ob- tients in Maidstone has been team does. Mon-Fri viously enjoying themselves, and adult male players move from 11-a- 9.30am - 4pm • Fitting service praised by a government watchdog. “The team is proud of the unit side football into more casual for- new choreographer Katy Russell Maidstone PET-CT Centre at the and the facilities it provides for pa- FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY available *Terms & conditions apply proved what can be achieved on mats of the game. One of the town’s hospital in Hermitage Lane, tients, and was pleased the CQC reasons is clubs lacking money. SERVICE WITHIN 10 MILE RADIUS the small Hazlitt stage. which provides diagnostic and recognised its efforts.” “Last year’s roll-out of the scheme Bringing you more than just fireplaces The show demands a strong screening procedures, was rated The report identified three areas saw some really positive strides.” Fagin (Dave Rowe) and Nancy “good” by the Care Quality Com- for further improvements. The scheme helped to retain 2,336 (Heather Cheeseman) and both mission. Mr Brown added: “The team wel- shone, notably when singing their Maidstone PET-CT unit manager comes this feedback as an opportu- adult male teams across the country Tel: 01622 663662 popular strong numbers. David Brown said: “This was our first nity to develop the service further, last year. For details contact the Maidstone’s message surely is: inspection by CQC since opening in and is working to implement these County FA or visit www.football- Unit 5, Bridge Industrial Estate, Wharf Road, Come back soon. 2017. It was a great opportunity to recommendations.” foundation.org.uk/funding- Tovil, Maidstone ME15 6RR Review byDennis Fowle schemes/stay-in-the-game/.

MallingMalling May May 2019 2019 2723 downsmail.co.uk

O b i t u a r e s John Ware appointed as an Alderman of Kent in 2010. on to work for the RSPCA, eventually John moved locally with Joan, his wife taking the lead role locally for dog re- JOHN Ware (68) was Kentish through of 67 years after forays into the local homing and placing over 6,000 dogs with and through, born in Allington aending countryside allowed them to spot a coach new owners. Brunswick House Primary and house suitable for conversion. She was married to Ernest for 68 years Maidstone Grammar Schools. The couple were parents to Alistair and and was mother to Jacqui. He trained as a Clare, and were together for over 70 years. Jacqui said: “My mother loved life and building surveyor at Their only significant time apart was a was never one to complain. She was active Mid Kent College three-year period when John’s career with in the RSPCA into her eighties and people Horsted, and BP took him to the Middle East. will remember her as very selfless.” graduated with his John’s work in the oil industry included Bey leaves her husband, daughter, CIOB in 1974. responsibility for human resources and a grandchildren Robert and Alice, and He started his long-standing interest in helping the great-grandchildren Ernie and Elsie. career with industry to work in sympathy with the Croudace Builders, environment. These concerns informed his moving on to decision to enter local politics. Norman Williams Finnegan’s and, for John was also a governor at Maidstone NORMAN Williams (92), of Loose, was the last 30 years, Coombs of Canterbury. Grammar School. His daughter Clare said: known in Maidstone for his performances He was involved in many projects for “My father was a man very much ahead of with the Country Players Amateur major parties in the South East including his time in the way he championed the Dramatic Society, always teaming up on Benenden Hospital, Kent County Council rights of the underdog.” stage with his wife and the National Trust. County councillor Trudy Dean MBE Pamela. He was honoured before his retirement added: “John was a great environmentalist He was once in 2015 by being made chairman of the and his political strength was matched by selected as the best Chartered Institute of Builders. his ability to bring humour to his work.” amateur actor in Kent He belonged to the Scout Association for John leaves his wife, children and and awarded the over 30 years, and helped to found the grandchildren Holly, Callum, Ollie and Marlowe Shield. Hamlet Wood District Campsite in 1965. Freddie. He was a talented He helped establish The Kits Coty sportsman and Morris dancers, who have been played rugby for entertaining the people of Maidstone Bey Pearson Cambridge since the Queen’s Jubilee in 1977. BETTY Pearson MBE (89) lived locally, University in the 1950/51 Varsity match He lived with his first wife Joy in most recently in Allington, and previously against Oxford. Allington until her death in the 1990s. He in West Malling and Maidstone. He spent 18 years in Zambia with the later remarried, moving to Ulcombe with She earned her MBE for services to Colonial Service. Later he served with wife Leila. animal charities, Liverpool City Council and then Kent He was a valued bass with the East notably with the County Council. Malling Singers, part of the village hall RSPCA. He was a talented artist and his commiee, performed with the Ulcombe Born Bey paintings sold well at exhibitions. Dramatic Amateurs Society, was Charman in Surrey, He is survived by his second wife membership secretary of the village she moved locally as Pamela and sons Richard and David from History Society, and commiee member a girl and, after his first marriage, and Louise and James of Friends of All Saints’ Ulcombe. completing her from Pamela’s first marriage. He is survived by Leila, step-children education, began Jeremy, Frazer and Rachel, and step working in the shoe grandchildren Sam, Josie, Rosie, Isaac trade. She rose to Stuart Hollamby and Lulu. manage a Chris Haon shop before STUART Hollamby (54) lived in Marden moving on to work for Dolcis. all his life, at addresses in Thorn Road, The Bey later opened a transport café in Cockpits and Chantry Road. John Frisby Addington and eventually ran her final Educated at Marden and Cornwallis MEREWORTH’S John Frisby (90) was a business; a grocery shop on Bearsted School, Stuart started work as a builder tenacious local politician and tireless Green. before becoming a sign installer. He environmentalist, who served Kent With her sister Brenda Johnson and developed his own business and his skills, County Council as a Liberal Democrat three other local women, Bey established combined with recommendations, led to a member from 1989 to 2005. He was the Animal Welfare Charity before going varied career. This included work at The National Gallery, Cadbury World and Buckingham Palace. Stuart was father to Emma and James. James said: “My father was the kind of Camrass Wills person who would help out anyone. Advice you can trust We’ve had lots of people make donations, many of whom have said he did bits of Do you need help with probate? work for them and didn’t want payment. Do you want to buy a funeral plan? “He loved golf, which he played all over Kent and Sussex as part of an association, • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed and enjoyed football, including travelling on local coaches to Charlton games. He DipPFS MSWW regularly supported me when I played for Marden.” 01622 720985 Stuart leaves his children, grandchildren www.camrasswills.co.uk Dexter and Avery, his mother and three brothers.

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

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Malling May 2019 25 downsmail.co.uk P a r i s h Birling Lier pick Participants including the Leybourne Beavers had filled six bags from the Police maers Only six members of the Fly-tipping The rubbish had been removed playing fields, car park and surrounding but more had been reported. The clerk was public a�ended the coffee morning, C area. although they raised several issues with

o u n c i l s asked to email the rural PCSO and TMBC Streetlighting Lights had been ordered for enforcement for advice. the Police Crime Commissioner. The PCC Bramley and Orchard Roads. was willing to hold another session after Village hall It was thought drug-taking Summer planting A quotation of £1,338 was taking place in the village hall car the May elections. had been received for hanging baskets, and Travellers It was noted that the travellers park. Cllr Nevill said the light would be it was agreed to accept it. changed to a PIR for security. The car park had moved on soon after the S77 was Allotment rents It was agreed that the served and had bagged up their rubbish. was being locked again to prevent rents for 2019/2020 would be £18.50 for a antisocial behaviour. However, TMBC had refused to remove small plot; £35 for two small plots or one the rubbish as it was KCC land. Cllr Ulph Parking It was resolved to investigate signs large plot and £17.50 each for more than to prevent parking in the disabled access called KCC and the ma�er was dealt with. two small plots. Maintenance A complaint had been about for the church. Fly the Flag The parish council had been Community walk Cllr Nevill agreed to vegetation and road/footpath issues. The invited to take part in this event to mark complainant had been advised that none of investigate a walk and to share proposed Merchant Navy Day, by buying a Red dates with councillors. June 2 was the land belonged to the parish council and Ensign flag and flying it on September 3. It the relevant TMBC and KCC departments considered. was agreed to take part. Street lighting It was noted that the light should be contacted. outside the church and Ryarsh Road had Kings Hill Pantomime There would be two shows on been repaired. Parsons Corner would be November 24. The cost of booking the fixed next. Worship A resident noted concerns that show would be £1,000 and the suggested Roads A pothole with a white line around there was still no place of worship in Kings ticket prices were £6 for adults and £2 for it was noted on Birling Road. Temporary Hill and asked who could help with children – total takings approximately road closures were noted in Legge Lane; providing this. It was explained that it was £500. It was agreed to go ahead. Ryarsh Road; Birling Road; and Malling the responsibility of the Church of England Road. – the clerk said the Church was currently in Ryarsh pre-planning talks with TMBC. Police maers PCSOs covering Ryarsh East Peckham Resignation Cllr Hurrington had resigned were James Robinson and Wendy Stanley. his position as chairman and councillor Police report There had been a burglary at The first break-in had been reported at and was thanked for his time and work. Ryarsh Park. Hale Street, and a phone had been stolen Community centre Professional advice from a person in Pound Road. Fly-tipping Highways A sign had fallen over on was being sought on the lease. The clerk Roughe�s Road near the A20 junction. The had been reported in Addlestead Road. and Cllr Broad were working on questions Community warden There had been clerk would report this. A surface had been to send to the legal advisor. laid in Woodgate Road, but the tarmac had shoplifting incidents at the Co-Op in Skate park There was no update from Branbridges Road. The alleged offenders been pushed to one side causing a hump, Liberty Property Trust. It was agreed to which was likely to cause an accident. were known to the authorities. write to them to confirm that the parish Jubilee Hall The EP Toddler Group and Streetlights The light outside 8 Woodgate council was considering the skate park Road was said to be very dim. The clerk Rainbows had relocated. The Action proposal and would liaise with LPT once a Medical Research Charity Cycle Ride was had asked the contractor to quote for the policy had been formulated. remaining lights to be modernised. to take place on May 12. The organisers Waitrose access It was resolved to monitor had been asked to marshal the cyclists in Village hall There had been problems with the progress of the land transfer and keep the boiler and water system. The budget and out of the car park. The East Peckham this item on the agenda. The clerk would 10k was to take place on August 4. for the work identified so far was £8,500 + ask Waitrose when the planning Vat, but this could increase. The hall had Maintenance There had been some application would be submi�ed. decorating in the sports hall. The playing about £5k for the work and was asking Speedwatch Cllr Ayling expressed concern other organisations for help. KCC Cllr field container had been repainted and the over the lack of volunteers and the future noticeboard had been installed. Repairs Hohler had agreed to donate £1,000. The of the scheme. parish council agreed to donate £2,000. had been carried out to the roof and PCSO There was concern regarding leaflet parapet brickwork. Internal drainage Play area There was a crack in the safety drops on Kings Hill – people were looking surface. Cllr Peddle would be asked if he problems had been resolved. Risk in houses and gardens after the delivery. assessments were up to date. could fill this. The clerk would seek quotes Suspicious vehicles had been noted. for updating the swings.

A Fiat Ducato was broken into and a C r i m e mobile phone was stolen at a supermarket in Mills Road, Aylesford. Neighbourhood Watch Some youths were seen kicking a door Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police

r at a house in High Street, Snodland. e p o r t s A BMW X5 had the window smashed in at a store in London Road, Ditton. A grey Ford Transit, ML62***, was stolen and the door dented and scraped in High Four tyres were stolen from a Mitsubishi from the road in Poynder Drive, Street, West Malling. The ignition barrel parked at a farm in London Road, Snodland. was not damaged. Addington. Other damage was caused. A gate was damaged at a house in Alma A van was broken into and tools were A shed was broken into and three Road, West Malling. stolen in Mills Road, Aylesford. mountain bikes were stolen at a house in The front number plate was stolen from Two male youths were seen drawing Alex Hughes Close, Snodland. The a VW Polo in a car park in High Street, graffiti on a road sign in St Leonards offender was seen to be driving a green East Malling. Street, West Malling. Vauxhall Corsa. An Audi A6 was broken into and a A store was broken into and searched in Laptops were stolen from a building in wallet was stolen in The Mead, Leybourne. Station Road, Ditton. Little Market Row, Leybourne. A living room window was damaged at A store was broken into overnight and A for sale sign was damaged at a house a house in Woodpecker Road, Larkfield. the safe was stolen in High Street, in High Street, Snodland. The lock of a house was filled with Snodland. A hedge trimmer was stolen from a expanding foam in Royal British Legion Fire extinguishers were stolen in a break- garage in Horns Lane, Mereworth. Village, Aylesford.

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Leisure Hair & Beauty Caretaker required as soon as possible 37 hours per week, 52 weeks per year – ree Shift System (Kent Range 4, £17,498 - £18,611)

Duties include security of the property, cleaning and preparing for school events and functions. Maintenance skills are essential. e post involves a three shift system (one hour for break). Candidates must be able to work at the weekend as and when required. Please contact the Headmaster’s PA, Mrs DA Friend, by phone or e-mail for a Job Description and application form or download from our website www.mgs-kent.sch.uk

e deadline for the receipt of applications, by letter with completed MGS application form is midday on Wednesday 22nd May 2019. Application via email is acceptable. Interviews will take place shortly after the deadline. Please note that CVs will not be accepted, please complete the application form in full. Maidstone Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and candidates will undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with former employers and an Enhanced CRB check. Maidstone Grammar School is an Equal Opportunities Employer

Tel: 01622 752101 Email: [email protected] Fax 01622 753680 Website: www.mgs.kent.sch.uk Maidstone Grammar School, Barton Road, Maidstone, Kent. ME15 7BT

30 Malling May 2019 Recruitment On the Road Media Sales d

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Malling May 2019 33 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Brexit impacts on local elections IT WAS interesting to note how the t Brexit debacle impacted on the May 2 Thank you, Fran local elections. There was little change MailMarks I ADMIRE councillors who have talent and become deeply involved in Maidstone and Tories lost ground DENNIS FOWLE President serving their town. It is increasingly (but not control) in Tonbridge and [email protected] Malling challenging and demands much For years, I was reasonably accurate dedication. We owe our thanks to Cllr forecasting the main thrust of these Fran Wilson, who is retiring after 24 elections. Now it is very difficult. – and some Maidstone political years as a Lib Dem member of Maidstone On top of the borough council decisions – there was a danger of a Council. Twice she has been leader of the elections on May 2, there could be, at very poor turnout. It was just 32% in council, a daunting commitment. She the time of writing, EU elections and Maidstone. was always on top of her portfolio, only maybe a general election. If the UK takes part in EU elections, possible by spending hours reading The Conservatives had high hopes of UKIP/Brexit Party could clean up in complex reports and being thoroughly winning back control of the local Maidstone with so many voters involved. May she and husband John council from the Lib Dems by gaining proclaiming their determination for now enjoy a more relaxed life. a couple of seats to add to their revenge on MPs – and the EU. existing 24, targeting Coxheath, North, Maidstone’s two Tory MPs – Helen Crem ‘embarrassing’ Loose and Downswood. All but North Grant and Helen Whately – have huge I A M pleased improvements are eluded them. majorities, but will not welcome a underway at Maidstone Cemetery, Confidence was high – until general election just now. including major repairs to the lovely canvassers hit a Brexit storm on the Both were originally remainers, but old, but faded chapel. doorsteps among voters. now say the democratic decision to But I fear Maidstone Council’s Maidstone voted 58% for Brexit and, leave must be respected. Maidstone priorities are wrong and should have according to local canvassers, the fury watches them closely in Parliament – it been given to expanding the chapel is now aimed at the Prime Minister for will not accept a benign “Brexit in seating at the busy Maidstone the poverty of her negotiations with Name Only”, leaving the UK Crematorium. the EU and then turning to Jeremy subservient to an EU we voted to The chapel can seat only about 80, Corbyn and Labour to offset depart. totally inadequate for bigger funerals opposition among her own MPs. Many were pleased to see retired when at times 100 or more mourners Many lost confidence months ago in Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe are left standing around the chapel or her ability to conduct the most fighting again the Brexit battle on listening to the service and tributes important UK negotiations since television. from outside. World War II – and this has risen to a She has always been a dedicated It is embarrassing to see elderly and groundswell. Brexiteer and described our Prime disabled mourners standing for the best Local elections are usually decided Minister as the worst since Sir Anthony part of an hour. more on local issues and popularity of Eden. I felt this was very insulting – to I now hear of families saying the candidates. Sir Anthony. crematorium is unfit for large funerals But so disenchanted were voters How will all this end? I fear and that the bigger gathering should be with national politicians of all colours repercussions will last a long time. at a wake.

A bypass reminder to do when they put their bins out before frustration. It states that eight cars have going to work at 5am and do not return been seized since the beginning of the year KENT County Councillor Gary Cooke is until 8pm? to improve the safety of residents. good at spli�ing hairs. He is not so good at Also, I have my bin cleaned by the Only eight. I was a civil enforcement remembering which authority is Wheelie Washers, so I can’t bring my bin officer for eight years and during that time responsible for a Leeds/Langley relief in until after it has been cleaned. Your I became increasingly frustrated with the road. comments on that please, TMBC. police’s disinterest in illegal cars. He keeps forge�ing that a Finally, the bin men should return bins I recently left my job and contacted Kent Leeds/Langley bypass was being proposed to the place they were picked up from. Police for an explanation as to why, by many in the 1980s, but KCC Angela Hill, East Malling despite pointing out cars that have tens procrastinated, with councillors choosing and even hundreds of outstanding penalty to sit on their hands instead of looking to My own bin back please charge notices, they do not seize cars. I the future. They preferred to “kick the can HAVING read your article about bin was told it is not a priority and cars down the road”, to use current political emptying by Tonbridge and Malling registered overseas cannot be dealt with. parlance. council. I agree with all that has been said As enforcement officers, we issue to the Maidstone's historical southern road about the vagaries of the bin men, but I same cars over and over again. Most of the problems, and leaving the Wrens Cross would like to add the fact that I rarely, if repeat offenders have overseas plates. If and Lower Stone Street area to be blighted ever, have my bin returned, nor do I want you use the Freedom of Information Act to for many years, are the direct result of other people’s dirty and ba�ered bins. get exact figures relating to the number of KCC Tory politicians’ indecisiveness. Mrs H Rankin, West Malling paid parking fines, you will find only Steve Russell, Maidstone about 50% actually get paid, and most of the unpaid ones are not pursued because Clampdown on illegal cars the cars are not registered with the DVLA. How will bin rules apply? REFERRING to Downs Mail Maidstone Your report claims uninsured drivers WITH regards to the new Tonbridge and North edition on the subject of “Uninsured were found to have commi�ed additional Malling bin collection rules, I would like to cars seized”. driving offences. Again, you are only ask the council what people are expected I read this article with extreme referring to those cars registered with the

34 Malling April 2019 downsmail.co.uk

DVLA. The intrepid Mr Fowle has discovered Still, seeing as the council has doubled C

If I used one of these overseas-registered that Bearsted Golf Club is a redoubt of the bill rise this year, along with all the o m e n cars to race past every speed camera in Brexiters. I would never have guessed new council tax bills created through new town, where would my fine be sent to? that! housing and development, we won’t need How would you find me if I commi�ed a K.G Banks, Maidstone a rise in tax next year…will we? hit and run? J G White, via email t Jayne Harris, via email Stick to referendum vow SOME Maidstone “remainers” do not enjoy reading Dennis Fowle’s very Infrastructure is vital No voice for Remainers welcome column in support of the 58% I READ the Mail Marks article in April FURTHER to the email from your locally and 52% nationally who voted in Downs Mail with interest and your correspondent in the March issue of favour of Brexit. concerns are justified, Maidstone Council Downs Mail, I must agree wholeheartedly The referendum had to produce a should be in no position to encourage that the leader on your editorial page has winner, and both the main political parties new development without supporting become a sounding board for the Brexit powerfully supported this democratic infrastructure. cause, but there seems no platform decision. There is no thought for the available to offer any alternative view. Many of us are very angry with those environment because they generate Based on the usual rhetoric and MPs reneging now. substantial revenue for council tax (this argument about the so-called “will of the Marion James, Maidstone cost increases each year). people”, these politically-based opinions I live in Grafty Green, an unspoilt area should really have no place in a local for now, but the Headcorn road which informative news publication, at least not Taxpayers’ cash wasted links Lenham and Headcorn has become without any alternative view published. much busier. The area of major concern WITH regard to the Judicial Review which David Purll, via email for me is Harriestsham and Lenham. has now been dropped, how dare Alison Development has moved at such a Broom just dismiss the disgusting waste of Brexit making us poorer rapid pace within the last five years, the public money without any explanation? former villages, as I now call them, are A RECENT Goldman Sachs report stated Just saying “negotiations were that there had been a staggering merging into one suburb of Maidstone… concluded” is flippant. Who does she £600million weekly loss to the British I have nicknamed it Lensham. think she is? economy since the 2016 Referendum, a The A20 can now be so busy leading On top of this, there is no answer to the 1.5% reduction in National Income. onto the M20 junction, traffic can back up question of cost. It’s our money they are A clear picture is emerging of Britain past Lenham, and will only become using and wasting. becoming a poorer nation. This is not what worse as more development is planned people voted for, of course, but this is Maidstone is choking, Maidstone is for the area. what everyone is ge�ing. jammed, Maidstone is dying, and its shops The other areas which have exploded Unlike your columnist Dennis Fowle, I are leaving or closing. Mothercare, are between Headcorn and up the Su�on thought the EU representatives were Jessops, Ho�ershoes, and others are still Road into Maidstone, with all side roads remarkably patient with a dithering open for business, but not in Maidstone, gridlocked as traffic tries to move Britain during the lengthy, drawn-out the (laugh out loud) county town. around. talks. We have to travel to Tonbridge Wells or It really is unbelievable to see so much The “massive democratic vote” to which Canterbury to get a decent selection of development with no thought for he refers was a closely-run thing and the shops in a pleasant environment. infrastructure. The area between wishes of those on the losing side need to We do, however, have pre�y blocks Downswood, Otham to Parkwood and be acknowledged if there is to be any being laid in the town centre, which, by Langley was, until six months ago, open prospect of national cohesion ever being the way, are replacing perfectly good woodland and fields. Now massive restored. condition blocks already in situ. I wonder developments are emerging (Bicknor He adds that there is “li�le faith in how long before a utility company has to Woods), with yet more traffic creating future trade deal negotiations”, which destroy them in order to carry out work? more pollution and mayhem on our roads. might read as an unintended slur on the What this mess has managed to achieve I can’t see an end to this and I have skills of Dr Liam Fox, the politician who is a council tax rise of 5.4% for every raised concerns with the council, as have reassured us that leaving the EU was “the resident (thank you) which is more than others, but this is no concern to them. easiest trade deal in history”. twice the national average of 2.48%. David Jenkins, Grafty Green

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