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Maidstone East Edition & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE FREE& Fortnightly October 2017 No.Maidstone 246 & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper News January 14th - 28th downsmail.co.uk No. 288 Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the River Medway to hasNews died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. David has disclosed. WithOn board The Kentishyou Lady wereevery step in lockdown national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy Police ‘a no show’ DUE to the COVID-19 lockdown and the MP’s Local Plan bid Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- Police failed to show to the fanimpact Booth it(Prince has Charming), had on smallEliza- businesses HELENscene ofWhately a hit and asked run the incident in bethacross Bright our borough, (Cinderella), Craig has de- Downs Mail governmentwhich a car towas halt severely the Andersoncided to (Buttons) scale back and, pictured, publication of our borough’s housing scheme. 4 Stephen Richards and Adam Bor- damaged. à4 zonenewspaper. (Ugly Sisters) . every month during the lockdown period. TheyRather were than greeted suspend by pupils operationsfrom tem- Thank you for bearing with us and for your PlansHazlitt for Theatre Dr Nigel delay South Borough Primary School and porarily, we will publish once a month – the continued support. THEA MEETING widow of scheduled GP Dr Nigel later Minnet this members of the media. The panto next edition will be available from usual willmonth walk to the discuss Grand the Hazlitt’s fu- runs from December 1-31. For tick- Keep up to date with Daily Downs Mail’s Canyonture has for been charity. put back a 12 etsoutlets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk.from February 4. round-the-clock, breaking news service at week for further work. We aim to be out on the first Thursday of downsmail.co.uk. à5 Jason Donovan date THECOVID-19 former Neighbours latest star brings hisREAD show our to theround-up Hazlitt of the latest Theatrenews on next how May. the pan- 18 OthamCCTV homes call battle in a bidlost demic is affecting us. à8

THE battle to save the ancient widening and a footway from the church at being engulfed by church to the existing footway to the New Castle boss a 440-house development has been north and an extension of the 30mph LEEDS Castle has appointed lost. area. Helen Bonser-Wilton as its new to stop fly-tippingOtham borough councillor Gor- chief executive to replace Sir Government inspector Stephen NormingtonCALLS for found the for installation appellant of CCTV cameras to preventdon Newton fly-tipping said: “I do not on think a the David Steel who left to become Bellway Homes, despite elected inspector has got on board what he the new Governor of Maidstonecountry Borough road haveCouncil been(MBC) made by the local boroughhas councillor. just approved, and ought to be Gibraltar. à12 ashamed of himself.” membersBurberry rejecting Lane, near the application Leeds and nearby, more than a year after it unlicensed waste carriers, but be- Residents’ action group threeBroomfield, times. has been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. lieves the cost to small firms of dis- Obituaries à35 wasteCritics dumpers warned for the years, plan but for in 400- re- The church car park has also seen posingspokesman of construction David Hatcher waste said: at a Obituaries 32 pluscent homes months, was the out problem of keeping has with be- many instances of illegal dumping. transfer“This will station lead is to proving degradation a deter- of Parishes à37 gradecome one more listed acute. St Nicholas’ Church, But it is a problem in many rural rentour thatcountryside is costing and councils traffic.” more. Parish Councils 34-35 pictured,Construction and posed waste, serious rubble, safety hard areas including Langley, Otham CllrThere Fort was madecriticism her that remarks MBC used as Comment à45-47 worriescore, windows due to and the household narrowness fur- of and Kingswood. Water Lane in onethe of same the borough’s lawyers closestwho warned trans- ASH dieback has been discovered in Churchniture is Lane. left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have feragainst stations fighting at Norththe appeal Farm, due Tun-to the Monks Meadow in ; inMBC the middle officers of recommended the road. ap- also been targeted recently. bridgefinancial Wells, cost, announcedwhich has yet it to will be bede- HollingbourneHeather Housevillage fete joy stall- holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has provalCllr Gillof the Fort scheme, said: “Every in the monthface of Last year, Maidstone Borough closedtermined. for 10 weeks. COMMUNITY centre Heather resigned; yellow lines are needed members’we are having vehement toilets, opposition. sinks and Counciloriginally cleared rejected 911 amid cases fears of fly-tip- of se- SheOf the added: church, “If youthe inspector go along said the House in Park Wood will soon for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow construction waste dumped in the pingvere andcongestion. this year But more the thaninspector 163 line“there of increasingwould be less fines, than they substantial have to Bellway asked the inquiry to support busesbe replaced through by Imperial a Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry havesees signalisation been recorded as a since solution April. for beharm enforced. to the significance A reduction of this in theher- the findings of another inspector bishnew binsbuilding. in the sports à field20 in Lane, where we are now thinking TheDeringwood approaching Drive darker traffic eveningsexiting to chargeitage asset” or offering and some it free benefit may havefrom who approved the scheme in the Kingswood are to be moved over to 2017of installing Local Plan. cameras on private willWillington prompt Street. a rise in illegal tipping. thethe desiredproposed similar car park. effect.” He asked for theHomeless picnic area and growing rear exit. land,Traffic to overseelights were the proposed problem area.”for the CllrMr FortNormington welcomed found a joint no initia- evi- electricA three-monthly charging points litter pick and on mea- the junctionA recent of Willington event in Burberry Street and Lane De- tivedence by Church the Environment Road had Agency a poor mile-longsures to protect stretch the of character road through of the CrimeTHE borough Reports council is facing 35 ringwoodsaw a caravan Drive, burned which outthe whilecouncil a andsafety the record Driver and and Bellway Vehicle proposed Stan- Leedsarea. County village producescouncillor anand average oppo- growing problems in housing torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32nent black Gary sacks Cooke of rubbish.said: “It’s a bad de- VEHICLEShomeless havepeople been dur- driven over cisionCllr Fort,and the who community also serves has asnow a farmlanding the pandemic. in , causingà23 parishgot to live councillor, with the consequences.” says teaching damge to crops; an attempted children about social responsibility break-in was reported in Detling; a and the issue of litter in schools will vehicleSports was parkvandalised chance in Bearsted helpKing take the Street issue off thecycle streets. Rd,THE troubled Kings; pumpkins Hill Sports were She believes with every household stolenPark’s day-to-day from an running allotment has in YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivinglane a weekly to refuse be collection Lenhambeen taken. over by not-for- [email protected] service, there is no excuse for litter profit organisation beingremoved thrown from – page vehicles 4 or Commenttmactive. 46-47à27 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. Home Alarms supplied and fitted NEW GOURMET BURGER DRIVE-THRU... visit www.amiga.co.uk or call 08000 199622 Serving 28 day aged grass fed local beef. see page 3 [email protected] cliveemson.co.uk 0345 8500333 NAL VALUE.

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2 downsmail.co.uk News Teen thieves Ken’s hobby a model TWO teenagers have been ac- cused of stealing cosmetics worth almost £1,000 from a store in Maidstone. way to record scenes Michael McDonaugh (19) and a 15-year-old boy were MASTER model-maker Ken Kim- both charged with theft after a ber, from , quantity of beauty products has kept himself very busy during were taken from Boots in King COVID-19 lockdowns, adding a Street on December 15. fourth to his series of widely-ad- Both were bailed to attend mired Maidstone scenes. Maidstone Magistrates’ Court His dining room table is adorned on February 23, 2021. with a 54-inch by 33-inch N-gauge (scale 1/148) presentation of Ayles- Funeral fees ford Railway Station in the 1920s, FOLLOWING concerns ex- with operational trains. pressed by councillors, there It is 11 years since Ken (79) com- will be no increase for resi- pleted his last main model, of the dents in Maidstone Council old tram terminus in Loose Road. charges for a basic funeral The first, of Rail- Ken, “is it has a curved platform thatched roof, and his supportive (cremation or burial) in the way Station, employed his car which lends to an oval track layout. wife Jilly lost her pot-scourers to coming financial year. restoration skills as he recovered The station building (now an In- hedges. Tea-leaf dust made good Inflationary costs in provid- from serious illness in 2004 after 20 dian takeaway), crossing-keeper’s soil. ing these services will be ab- years as purchasing manager for cottage, goods shed and terrace of The model has so far taken 1,000 sorbed by the council. Whatman International Ltd (paper six workers’ cottages are still there hours of day-by-day dedication, by makers) in Maidstone. for reference. a man with weakening eyesight The second was a town centre “Fortunately, the group of oast and arthritic fingers. Just the final Death record scene of the busy bus station in kilns can be seen in a 1993 photo- touches are ahead. THE parish register for St Palace Avenue/Knightrider Street graph.” Now the mind of this former Peter & St Paul's in for much of the second half of the He needed to be very inventive Maidstone Grammar School pupil has recorded the death of last century, with moving vehicles. with materials for such small mod- is wandering to Maidstone West Dolly Roe. “The appeal of Aylesford,” said elling and used fine steel wool for a Station... New Gourmet Burger Drive-thru

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3 News downsmail.co.uk Police ‘no-show’ at hit-and-run A man says he is surprised that police failed to attend the scene of a terrifying hit-and-run incident in Headcorn. Justin Poulter (57) was at the den- come to the scene. We hung about tist when a 4x4 bearing false plates for about an hour and half. but po- smashed into the back of his Mer- lice didn't appear.” cedes estate outside Foodie’s Empo- Father-of-one Mr Church, of rium in North Street on January 7. Hawkhurst, said: “I went outside The driver of the car spun the and tried to speak to the driver of SUV around and drove over the foot the 4x4, but he gave me a rather un- of Foodie’s Emporium manager Justin Poulter savoury gesture and drove off over Chris Church (41), who had run out- with his my foot. The bumper on his car side to try and stop it. wrecked was hanging off. My foot was sore IT systems executive Mr Poulter Mercedes car for a while, but there was no lasting was attending an urgent appoint- after it was damage. We hung about for the po- ment at the Smiles dental surgery lice but they didn’t show up which damaged by with an abscess and parked up at is surprising.” a hit-and-run around 3.30pm. The registration number of the A few minutes later, the 4x4, driver in 4x4 is registered to a silver Ford thought to be a Mitsubishi, ap- Headcorn Explorer, but witnesses felt sure it peared to jump a red light, lost con- Mr Poulter said: “I was coming “He must have hit my car very was a charcoal grey Mitsubishi. trol and went into father-of-three Mr back from the dentist, walked hard to do that amount of damage. said enquiries are on- Poulter’s car. around the corner and saw my car We rang the police and they said going. The Kent Police and Crime The driver then turned the car about 50 feet from where I had they might try to intercept it, but I’ve Commissioner’s office was ap- around, said a witness, and sped off parked it, against the pavement on no idea if they did or not. proached for a comment but did in the opposite direction. the other side of the road. “I was very surprised they didn't not respond. Housing relief Pop up lane to disappear Traveller sites GOVERNMENT demand for new TWO mobile homes sites for gyp- housing in Maidstone has de- THE controversial pop-up cycle tleneck – and fierce anger among sies and travellers owned by Maid- creased from a potential 1,569 route in King Street, Maidstone, is drivers. Government funding for stone Borough Council at Water units a year to around 1,200 due to be completely removed by Kent the lane was dependent on it being Lane () and Stilebridge to a change in methodology. County Council (KCC). built quickly and without the nor- (Marden) are to benefit from £1m The change follows widespread A report to Maidstone Joint mal consultations and scrutiny. improvements. protests in southern , and Transport Board said the borough KCC says it now seeks developer They will include road and street now puts greater emphasis on the is to progress rejuvenation of its funding to progress a permanent lighting, sanitary and wash facili- country’s largest urban areas. Mall bus hub. and consulted ‘solution’ for King ties, metering water and electric The current demand is for 883 A section between Wyke Manor Street which enables Maidstone supplies and site signage. houses a year but a new target of Road and Church Street was re- Borough Council’s cycling strategy 1,214 has been announced. moved within hours last year when to link Mote Park with Maidstone The council’s head of planning local taxi drivers found their King East Station. Report delay and development, Rob Jarman, Street waiting area had disap- The county council says the new WELL over 2,000 responses were has warned of a new Government peared overnight. road measures in Earl Street will re- received to Maidstone Borough approach in the spring for assess- And the part of the pop-up main with minor adjustment to the Council’s Local Plan Review public ing housing need and this could through the property build-out at new ‘parklet’ seating areas to consultation. To give officers time increase or decrease demand in the eastern end of the street caused allow for extra loading and park- to consider comments their report Maidstone. a major new Maidstone traffic bot- ing. has been delayed until March.

The award­winning Downs Mail newspaper is delivered fortnightly door­to­door in selected areas, and is available to pick up from major supermarkets and local stores in the Maidstone and Malling boroughs. The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk. We can post the newspaper to you for an annual subscription of £25 for 24 editions. For details, email [email protected] or call a member of the team on 01622 630330.

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

4 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Police ‘no-show’ at hit-and-run Author’s Kent A SUTTON Valence man says he is surprised that police failed to attend the scene of a terrifying hit-and-run incident in Headcorn. vision in print Justin Poulter (57) was at the den- come to the scene. We hung about tist when a 4x4 bearing false plates for about an hour and half. but po- A MAIDSTONE author has pub- smashed into the back of his Mer- lice didn't appear.” lished a “dystopian” novel imag- cedes estate outside Foodie’s Empo- Father-of-one Mr Church, of ining Kent as an independent rium in North Street on January 7. Hawkhurst, said: “I went outside state ruled by a puritan dictator. The driver of the car spun the and tried to speak to the driver of resident Fred Atkins, a SUV around and drove over the foot the 4x4, but he gave me a rather un- former cricket journalist with As- of Foodie’s Emporium manager Justin Poulter savoury gesture and drove off over sociated Press, spent the COVID- Chris Church (41), who had run out- with his my foot. The bumper on his car 19 lockdowns finishing “Kippers”, side to try and stop it. wrecked was hanging off. My foot was sore after three years of trying. IT systems executive Mr Poulter Mercedes car for a while, but there was no lasting The book, which was published was attending an urgent appoint- after it was damage. We hung about for the po- on January 1 by Back Page media, ment at the Smiles dental surgery lice but they didn’t show up which damaged by is set in the future, when the with an abscess and parked up at is surprising.” county has broken free from the a hit-and-run around 3.30pm. The registration number of the rest of the as the driver in A few minutes later, the 4x4, 4x4 is registered to a silver Ford “Democratic Republic of England” Headcorn thought to be a Mitsubishi, ap- Explorer, but witnesses felt sure it after the discovery of oil in the tobiography The Full Monty, said: peared to jump a red light, lost con- Mr Poulter said: “I was coming “He must have hit my car very was a charcoal grey Mitsubishi. Weald of Kent. “I’ve spent the pandemic attempt- trol and went into father-of-three Mr back from the dentist, walked hard to do that amount of damage. Kent Police said enquiries are on- Under the new regime, the con- ing to finish something I started Poulter’s car. around the corner and saw my car We rang the police and they said going. The Kent Police and Crime sumption of alcohol is banned, the writing three years ago. p5 The driver then turned the car about 50 feet from where I had they might try to intercept it, but I’ve Commissioner’s office was ap- press is controlled and dissenters “It was originally intended to be around, said a witness, and sped off parked it, against the pavement on no idea if they did or not. proached for a comment but did are sent to a prison hulk called The funny, but it turned into a Cold in the opposite direction. the other side of the road. “I was very surprised they didn't not respond. Liberty, anchored off Sheerness. War hellscape and I thought I’d The plot revolves around an MI6 better publish it before it actually agent who has been assigned to the happened.” Housing relief Pop up lane to disappear Traveller sites new republic as a punishment. Kippers started out as a sequel to GOVERNMENT demand for new TWO mobile homes sites for gyp- Mr Atkins, pictured, who was his first novel in 2017 called Wel- housing in Maidstone has de- THE controversial pop-up cycle tleneck – and fierce anger among sies and travellers owned by Maid- the co-writer for England spin come to Kent: Sorry About The Will, Deputyship, creased from a potential 1,569 route in King Street, Maidstone, is drivers. Government funding for stone Borough Council at Water bowler Monty Panesar’s 2019 au- Racists, published by Kent Fiction. units a year to around 1,200 due to be completely removed by Kent the lane was dependent on it being Lane (Ulcombe) and Stilebridge to a change in methodology. County Council (KCC). built quickly and without the nor- (Marden) are to benefit from £1m or Power of The change follows widespread A report to Maidstone Joint mal consultations and scrutiny. improvements. protests in southern England, and Transport Board said the borough KCC says it now seeks developer They will include road and street Hazlitt plan delay Attorney dispute? now puts greater emphasis on the is to progress rejuvenation of its funding to progress a permanent lighting, sanitary and wash facili- A MEETING to decide the future cash in the face of falling revenues country’s largest urban areas. Mall bus hub. and consulted ‘solution’ for King ties, metering water and electric of the Hazlitt Theatre has been caused by the pandemic. Do you have a dispute regarding how a The current demand is for 883 A section between Wyke Manor Street which enables Maidstone supplies and site signage. delayed. The theatre has been unable to houses a year but a new target of Road and Church Street was re- Borough Council’s cycling strategy Maidstone Borough Council’s stage any major events and has Will, Deputyship, Estate or Power of Attorney 1,214 has been announced. moved within hours last year when to link Mote Park with Maidstone Report delay Economic Regeneration and been closed for much of the past has been handled? The council’s head of planning local taxi drivers found their King East Station. Leisure Committee was due to year. WELL over 2,000 responses were and development, Rob Jarman, Street waiting area had disap- The county council says the new convene on January 19. MBC saw little point in paying received to Maidstone Borough has warned of a new Government peared overnight. road measures in Earl Street will re- MBC claims the delay is to Parkwood for services it could not Whitehead Monckton has considerable Council’s Local Plan Review public approach in the spring for assess- And the part of the pop-up main with minor adjustment to the “allow work to be completed on a provide, but critics are afraid if the consultation. To give officers time experience in helping clients to resolve ing housing need and this could through the property build-out at new ‘parklet’ seating areas to number of options for the future Hazlitt was to close, there would to consider comments their report increase or decrease demand in the eastern end of the street caused allow for extra loading and park- sustainability” of the venue. be little chance of it reopening. these difficult disagreements and in many has been delayed until March. Maidstone. a major new Maidstone traffic bot- ing. The authority blamed recent An MBC decision in November cases achieving excellent financial results. changes to the COVID-19 status to mothball the theatre was later The award­winning Downs Mail newspaper is delivered fortnightly door­to­door in selected areas, and is of the borough, meaning it was overturned, allowing a deferment Call us today on “difficult for solid, fully remod- for greater clarity to be sought. available to pick up from major supermarkets and local stores in the Maidstone and Malling boroughs. elled business forecasts” to be The vote was split down party Canterbury 01227 643250 The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. prepared by the council and the lines – the Liberal Democrat and Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk. contractor, Parkwood Theatres. 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5 News downsmail.co.uk Fire breaks out Pizza venue plans A FIVE-FLOOR “events centre” is set to replace a much-loved pizza restaurant in the heart of Maidstone. Unity Parties Limited has submitted a licence application to convert at troubled flats the former Pizza Express branch in Earl Street into A WOMAN was rushed to a Lon- and Waltham Forest, lease proper- The Green Room. don hospital after a fire on the ties as temporary accommodation The venue will include fourth floor of a block of flats in for residents they are unable to live music, a whisky room, the centre of Maidstone. house in the capital. a cocktail bar, a pizza The air ambulance was scram- Local residents say the block has restaurant, a record shop bled to Star House, Pudding Lane become a hotspot for crime and an- and a radio station. in the early hours of Tuesday, Jan- tisocial behaviour. Director Richard Carerra uary 5, after the blaze took hold. One told Downs Mail: “No one said he intends for the new The street was coned off while wants to demonise people living eatery, called The Back- six fire crews, paramedics and po- there. The people from London can yard Company, to open as lice dealt with the incident. only go where they are sent. Asso- a takeaway for now, until it The British Red Cross and Kent ciated with this type of accommo- can officially open the site to the public in mid-March. Fire and Rescue Service’s volunteer dation is a group of hangers-on, The application also in- response team were on the scene to who don’t even live there, and cludes extending trading help other residents. there has been trouble. hours from 8am to 4am. Fire officers launched an investi- “Most people living in that block The request reads: “The gation into the cause of the blaze, are nice, friendly and keen to inte- 4am variation is for vari- which may have started in the grate, but there has been an in- ous functions including kitchen, but police have indicated crease in problems there.” dance music, comedy and they do not believe there were sus- Londoners at the building re- live entertainment.” picious circumstances. portedly blamed Maidstone resi- The former Pizza Express Star House has become the cen- dents for causing problems. restaurant closed its Maid- tre of renewed concerns in recent Locals claim there are parties stone branch back in Au- weeks, after an alleged stabbing of into the early hours, people shout- gust, due to the pandemic. a woman there last month. ing and banging on doors as well Two London councils, Newham as drunks sleeping on the floor.

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7 News | Coronavirus downsmail.co.uk New morgue as deaths rise AS MAIDSTONE becomes accustomed to its third national lockdown, a temporary morgue has been constructed at a business park in Aylesford. The 24-hour Beddow Way site, Parsonage Surgery (Goudhurst), Greensands branch surgery “We know people are keen to which will hold the bodies of those Old School Surgery (Cranbrook), (Loose), Len Valley branch surgery know when they will get the vac- who have died of COVID-19, will Crane Practice, Wish Valley (). cine, and this is an absolute prior- be used to relieve pressure on hos- (Hawkhurst), Orchard End Despite the pandemic, Maid- ity for the local NHS. pital mortuaries as the COVID-19 Surgery (Cranbrook). stone and Tunbridge Wells NHS “People are being contacted di- death rate rises. Health bosses are warning resi- Trust says it is continuing to pro- rectly when the vaccine is available The news comes as an extra vac- dents to be remain patient as they vide cancer and other urgent oper- for them. We are asking everyone cination centre was announced for roll out vaccine services. ations as much as possible. to please be patient and not to con- the county town at Headcorn The other Maidstone and A spokesman for NHS Kent and tact GP surgeries unless they have Surgery in addition to , Malling vaccination centres are Medway said: “The NHS is rolling been sent an invitation.” Marden, Health Cen- Avicenna Medical Centre (West out vaccine services for all parts of NHS England says vaccinations tre, Howell Surgery (Brenchley), Malling), Blackthorn Medical Cen- Kent and Medway and 90% of our will be administered via GP hubs Northridge Medical Practice tre (Maidstone), Bower Mount 200 GP practices already have ar- or practices and no patient journey (Hawkhurst), Lamberhurst, Old Medical Centre (Maidstone), rangements confirmed. should be more than 10 miles. Guidelines Call for help A 24-HOUR helpline has been set for funerals up to support vulnerable people in Kent who need urgent help NEW guidelines have been re- during lockdown. leased for those attending funerals The helpline, called Kent To- at Vinters Park Crematorium and gether, provides a single point of Maidstone Cemetery. contact for anyone who needs Maidstone Borough Council, vital supplies or medication or which runs both sites, said that no who wishes to report concerns more than 30 people should attend about the welfare of someone a funeral and that all attendees else. must wear masks. If you are vulnerable and have Mourners should observe social an urgent need that cannot be met distancing rules and will not be al- through existing support net- lowed to help with carrying the works, you can call Kent Together coffin. on 03000 419292. Bereavement services manager Sharon Smith said: “Sadly, the winter months do see an increase Test centres in the number of services we un- TESTING for people who do not dertake. However, we are also see- have COVID-19 symptoms is ing an increase in deaths relating to More ambulances called in being rolled out across Kent. the COVID-19 pandemic. AN EXTRA 50 ambulance staff have been drafted in from other parts of Residents attending this testing “Personal safety is paramount at the SouthEast as pressure mounts on health services. will undergo a lateral flow swab this difficult time, and we ask that test and will receive their result everyone takes precautions.” The ambulance service says the voluntary deployment of more person- nel was part of a contingency preparation plan put in place for the end of within a couple of hours. the EU transition period, effectively the endgame. For Maidstone, the closest sites Hospital visits A spokesman said: "However, given the current situation, the crews have are Kent Showground and Lark- field Library in Martin Square. RELATIVES can still get essential increased their resilience as we continue to face significant pressure across Sites are open daily from 9am to items to loved ones who have been our whole region relating to the pandemic." The new strain of the virus has sparked a massive spike in infections with 7pm. admitted to Maidstone Hospital. People can now book tests on- When family or carers arrive at intensive care units at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals with more cases needing ventilators than ever before. line at kcc.healthit.org.uk/ the hospital, they are asked to go to covbook/home. the main entrance and speak to the security team about the purpose of their visit. They will then be directed to the ‘Stick to the rules or face fines’ nearby hub to hand the bag to a KENT Police are urging local parties, dealt with people blatant disregard for the regula- volunteer. They will not be able to communities to continue to fol- breaching self-isolation require- tions, putting others in danger enter the hospital due to restric- low the lockdown regulations to ments and flouting travel bans. by hosting gatherings or meet- tions on non-essential visiting. help save lives. In total, 42 people were fined. ing others whilst infected with Visitors will then be asked to Assistant Chief Constable Assistant Chief Constable Nix the virus, officers were left with complete a property checklist form, Claire Nix warned that although said: “The vast majority of Kent no other option but to issue and to fill in the patient’s name, most people are being compli- residents recognise the impor- fines. date of birth and the ward they are ant, some were clearly showing tance of abiding by the regula- “The restrictions are designed on. a “blatant disregard” of the tions to control the spread of to reduce the infection rate – but Once completed, the volunteer rules. During the new year pe- COVID-19. However, on the oc- they will only work if people will take the bag and a completed riod, officers closed down house casions where people showed a comply.” check list form to the ward. 8 News | Coronavirus downsmail.co.uk New morgue as deaths rise AS MAIDSTONE becomes accustomed to its third national lockdown, a temporary morgue has been Will your Fence weather constructed at a business park in Aylesford. The 24-hour Beddow Way site, Parsonage Surgery (Goudhurst), Greensands branch surgery “We know people are keen to the next storm? which will hold the bodies of those Old School Surgery (Cranbrook), (Loose), Len Valley branch surgery know when they will get the vac- who have died of COVID-19, will Crane Practice, Wish Valley (Harrietsham). cine, and this is an absolute prior- be used to relieve pressure on hos- (Hawkhurst), Orchard End Despite the pandemic, Maid- ity for the local NHS. pital mortuaries as the COVID-19 Surgery (Cranbrook). stone and Tunbridge Wells NHS “People are being contacted di- death rate rises. Health bosses are warning resi- Trust says it is continuing to pro- rectly when the vaccine is available The news comes as an extra vac- dents to be remain patient as they vide cancer and other urgent oper- for them. We are asking everyone cination centre was announced for roll out vaccine services. ations as much as possible. to please be patient and not to con- the county town at Headcorn The other Maidstone and A spokesman for NHS Kent and tact GP surgeries unless they have Surgery in addition to Yalding, Malling vaccination centres are Medway said: “The NHS is rolling been sent an invitation.” Marden, Staplehurst Health Cen- Avicenna Medical Centre (West out vaccine services for all parts of NHS England says vaccinations tre, Howell Surgery (Brenchley), Malling), Blackthorn Medical Cen- Kent and Medway and 90% of our will be administered via GP hubs Northridge Medical Practice tre (Maidstone), Bower Mount 200 GP practices already have ar- or practices and no patient journey (Hawkhurst), Lamberhurst, Old Medical Centre (Maidstone), rangements confirmed. should be more than 10 miles. With Autumn Guidelines Call for help upon us – it’s the A 24-HOUR helpline has been set perfect time to start for funerals up to support vulnerable people preparing your garden in Kent who need urgent help NEW guidelines have been re- for the Winter weather. during lockdown. leased for those attending funerals The helpline, called Kent To- At the point the fence resisting rusting at Vinters Park Crematorium and gether, provides a single point of blows down or rots and and rotting in the rain, Maidstone Cemetery. contact for anyone who needs Maidstone Borough Council, falls it becomes a real cracking, warping or shrinking vital supplies or medication or which runs both sites, said that no headache and an urgent in the sun and fallen panels who wishes to report concerns more than 30 people should attend about the welfare of someone ȵȸȒƫǼƺȅɎȒˡɴǣȇȒȸƳƺȸɎȒ when the wind blows. a funeral and that all attendees else. keep your garden secure. must wear masks. ColourFence is available in 4 Don’t wait for your fence to If you are vulnerable and have Mourners should observe social an urgent need that cannot be met Many customers install different colours that can be blow down this winter, our distancing rules and will not be al- through existing support net- ColourFence for the peace mixed and matched to create revolutionary metal garden lowed to help with carrying the works, you can call Kent Together coffin. of mind that storms won’t stylish designs that would take fencing is the cost effective, on 03000 419292. Bereavement services manager leave them the bill, and hassle hours of painting and there’s low maintenance alternative Sharon Smith said: “Sadly, the involved in getting urgent no need to paint your new to traditional fencing, call now winter months do see an increase Test centres repairs done. ColourFence fence for the entire length for a free, no-obligation site in the number of services we un- TESTING for people who do not stands up to the British weather, of the 25-year guarantee.* survey and quote today. dertake. However, we are also see- have COVID-19 symptoms is ing an increase in deaths relating to More ambulances called in being rolled out across Kent. the COVID-19 pandemic. “Brilliant product and excellent AN EXTRA 50 ambulance staff have been drafted in from other parts of Residents attending this testing “Personal safety is paramount at staff. My whole garden is now the SouthEast as pressure mounts on health services. will undergo a lateral flow swab beautifully furnished with this this difficult time, and we ask that test and will receive their result everyone takes precautions.” The ambulance service says the voluntary deployment of more person- metal garden fencing! No more nel was part of a contingency preparation plan put in place for the end of within a couple of hours. painting for me and no more the EU transition period, effectively the Brexit endgame. For Maidstone, the closest sites worries about windy weather. are Kent Showground and Lark- Hospital visits A spokesman said: "However, given the current situation, the crews have So pleased!” Anne Brown, Cornwall field Library in Martin Square. RELATIVES can still get essential increased their resilience as we continue to face significant pressure across Sites are open daily from 9am to items to loved ones who have been our whole region relating to the pandemic." 7pm. GREEN BLUE admitted to Maidstone Hospital. The new strain of the virus has sparked a massive spike in infections with BROWN CREAM intensive care units at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals with more People can now book tests on- When family or carers arrive at line at kcc.healthit.org.uk/ xǣɴۭȅƏɎƬǝ 4 colours the hospital, they are asked to go to cases needing ventilators than ever before. covbook/home. BEFORE AFTER * Terms and conditions apply, the main entrance and speak to the hose down several times per year. security team about the purpose of their visit. They will then be directed to the ‘Stick to the rules or face fines’ Don’t wait for your fence to fall this Winter, nearby hub to hand the bag to a KENT Police are urging local parties, dealt with people blatant disregard for the regula- volunteer. 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In total, 42 people were fined. ing others whilst infected with Visitors will then be asked to Assistant Chief Constable Assistant Chief Constable Nix the virus, officers were left with complete a property checklist form, Claire Nix warned that although said: “The vast majority of Kent no other option but to issue and to fill in the patient’s name, most people are being compli- residents recognise the impor- fines. date of birth and the ward they are 01622 233 322 ant, some were clearly showing tance of abiding by the regula- “The restrictions are designed on. a “blatant disregard” of the tions to control the spread of to reduce the infection rate – but Once completed, the volunteer rules. During the new year pe- COVID-19. However, on the oc- they will only work if people colourfencemidkent.co.uk will take the bag and a completed riod, officers closed down house casions where people showed a comply.” check list form to the ward.

ColourFence_A4_Autumn_approved.indd 1 17/09/2019 11:59 9 News downsmail.co.uk Ask for help HEADCORN vicar Fiona Haskett has called on local people suffering Plan for 60 flats on as a result of the pandemic to ask for help. Writing in the parish magazine, Rev Haskett hopes the commu- hospital site agreed nity's generosity and neighbourli- THE former private Somerfield many, and would add to the “ter- ness will continue but that those in Hospital can be converted into 60 rible” traffic congestion on London need will “yell”. self-contained apartments in a Road. She writes: “We won't judge you scheme which will provide 73 The main building is grade two if you are ever in that position, so units. listed and most of this is retained, please yell if you are ever in need. The 2.5-acre site in London together with the listed ragstone I promise you that it will be in the Road, Maidstone, was given ap- wall fronting London Road. strictest confidence.” proval for development by the But some modern non-listed Call 01622 891804. Even Group, based in London, last buildings to the rear will be de- month. molished. Maidstone Borough Council’s A new three-storey building was Scout appeal planning committee agreed in a 7- agreed as part of the scheme. LEEDS & Kingswood Scout Group 6 vote. Demolition of 79 London Road is looking for new leaders or Several councillors were con- was agreed, with erection of a re- helpers. cerned about the high level of one- placement building providing six Two of the current volunteers are bed apartments, which limits the apartments and six townhouses number of two-bed apartments and conversion of an ancillary retiring and another two are mov- and the impact of extra cars. building to a dwelling. ing, having been accepted into the But one condition is that there is Planning committee members Royal Air Force. additional on-site parking and and, indeed, most people prefer emphasised the need to protect All training and uniforms are more electric charging points. using brownfield sites in some trees both on the site and next to it, provided to people who are inter- One vocal critic, local borough form for housing rather than and to encourage wildlife. ested in giving back to their com- member Jonathan Purle, said when churning up ancient woodland The buildings were originally munity. plans were revealed by Downs and the like.” housing, but became a private hos- Call Alan Poulton on 01622 Mail last summer: “There have Cllr Purle felt the original plan pital in 1990. The hospital shut per- 843019. been issues with having it empty for 80 units on the site was too manently in April 2019. THE GARDEN of ENGLAND HOMECARE The future of homecare Kind, compassionate P36 care in and around the Maidstone area. Our care packages are person p6 centered to meet your individual requirements, these may include: • Personal care • Meal preparations • Shopping • Welfare visits • Medication assistance Our team of professional care workers have regular training, COVID testing and are kept up to date with the latest COVID guidelines. RECRUITING NOW Over 20 years Experience in providing Home and Come and join our dedicated, friendly team. Day Care Services. For Elderly or Disabled individuals. Personalised Short To discuss your care needs further: Tel: 01622 674733 and Long term care. A range of email: [email protected] or visit www.goedaycare.co.uk package to suit individual needs.

10 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Ask for help EQUITY RELEASE - is the timing better than ever? (for all generations) HEADCORN vicar Fiona Haskett drawing more than is needed may be have also helped a number of parents has called on local people suffering Plan for 60 flats on unnecessarily costly release equity to enable their children buy as a result of the pandemic to ask homes or to help in other ways. for help. How much do you need NOW? Writing in the parish magazine, Releasing a smaller amount “up front” and “After over 27 years in finance I take pride in Rev Haskett hopes the commu- hospital site agreed creating a drawdown facility allows access to the time and care I take when speaking with nity's generosity and neighbourli- THE former private Somerfield many, and would add to the “ter- money for the future but interest is not paid clients. It is absolutely essential to ness will continue but that those in Hospital can be converted into 60 rible” traffic congestion on London until it is drawn understand what a client needs and what need will “yell”. self-contained apartments in a Road. their plans are for the future before I can She writes: “We won't judge you scheme which will provide 73 The main building is grade two Do you plan to move house? even begin to advise” if you are ever in that position, so units. listed and most of this is retained, Many schemes are portable but the Sarah is happy to visit your home and she is please yell if you are ever in need. The 2.5-acre site in London together with the listed ragstone implications need to be discussed so we can Equity Release is attracting more publicity find the scheme with the right amount of not just available 9-5 but will offer flexible I promise you that it will be in the Road, Maidstone, was given ap- wall fronting London Road. than ever, however local adviser Sarah flexibility times to suit her clients. strictest confidence.” proval for development by the But some modern non-listed Ferrell is concerned that people are Call 01622 891804. Even Group, based in London, last buildings to the rear will be de- month. molished. confused. “There are so many options Would you like to be able to pay interest For more information or a free initial Maidstone Borough Council’s A new three-storey building was available these days that clients are on the mortgage? consultation please call Sarah on 01622 Scout appeal planning committee agreed in a 7- agreed as part of the scheme. bombarded with information”. It still surprises many people that most of 631372 or 07789 007447 or e-mail her at [email protected] LEEDS & Kingswood Scout Group 6 vote. Demolition of 79 London Road today’s schemes allow payment of interest. This provides the capital needed without the is looking for new leaders or Several councillors were con- was agreed, with erection of a re- There are huge benefits to Equity Release longer-term costs people have potentially helpers. cerned about the high level of one- placement building providing six however there are also longer term been worried about. Call Sarah on Two of the current volunteers are bed apartments, which limits the apartments and six townhouses considerations. number of two-bed apartments and conversion of an ancillary retiring and another two are mov- and the impact of extra cars. building to a dwelling. I am a great advocate of Equity Release 07789 007447 ing, having been accepted into the Key questions I would encourage clients to But one condition is that there is Planning committee members having seen the financial pressure it can Royal Air Force. consider include: 01622 631372 additional on-site parking and and, indeed, most people prefer emphasised the need to protect relieve. It has been used for home improve- All training and uniforms are ments and has kept people in their homes [email protected] more electric charging points. using brownfield sites in some trees both on the site and next to it, How much do you REALLY need? provided to people who are inter- when they felt selling was the only option. I One vocal critic, local borough form for housing rather than and to encourage wildlife. As interest is charged from the outset, www.sarahferrell-equityrelease.co.uk ested in giving back to their com- member Jonathan Purle, said when churning up ancient woodland The buildings were originally munity. plans were revealed by Downs and the like.” housing, but became a private hos- Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits. Call Alan Poulton on 01622 Mail last summer: “There have Cllr Purle felt the original plan pital in 1990. The hospital shut per- 843019. been issues with having it empty for 80 units on the site was too manently in April 2019. MORTGAGES EQUITY RELEASE RE-MORTGAGE BUY-TO-LET FIRST TIME BUYERS

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11 News downsmail.co.uk Guidelines for buskers Mary Rose’s boss Helen MAIDSTONE Borough Coun- cil is considering a set of guide- lines to control street busking. finds new role at castle It recognises the contribution of busking and street entertain- THE new boss of Leeds Castle is ever now to care for this extraor- ing brings to the vibrancy and Helen Bonser-Wilton, who is dinary place. character of the town. currently the chief executive of “We will be developing our However, a report says: the Mary Rose Trust in offer to encourage more visiting “There needs to be a balance Portsmouth. during this season, as well as car- with needs and rights of local She takes over in March from ing for the unique heritage assets residents and workers so they Sir David Steel, who left last year so that future generations can are not adversely impacted by after five years, following his ap- enjoy them as much as the current it, especially those near popular pointment by the Queen as the generation.” busking sites.” Governor of Gibraltar. Caretaker chief executive Robin The council ran a consulta- Helen, pictured, becomes chief Richman will continue in his role tion in September and Novem- executive of the Leeds Castle as deputy chief executive and fi- ber and 79 of the 93 responses Foundation at one of its most cru- nancial director. favoured introducing guide- cial times in recent history. Niall Dickson, chairman of the lines while 67 saw proposals as The pandemic has put serious Leeds Castle Foundation, added: proportionate. The key proposed guidelines strain on the treasure house’s rev- “We are very much looking for- include allocating performance enues, with millions lost from ward to Helen joining us in spaces and distances between prolonged closures, loss of the March. them; limiting the length of per- foreign tourist market and can- “She brings a wealth of experi- formances; and fixing levels of celled big ticket events such as the ence and a great track record. volume. classical concert and fireworks. Helen’s arrival will enable us to The proposals, after consid- Dozens of long-serving staff lost COVID-19 crisis has wrought build on what has been achieved eration by the council’s Licens- their jobs. huge damage on our income. and create an exciting future, pre- ing Committee, will go out for Helen said: “Leeds Castle is a “As a charity that relies on in- serving this national icon and de- further consultation. key player in the Kent and south- come from visitors, we need the veloping the experience for east visitor economy, but the support of the public more than everyone who comes here.” p12

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12 News downsmail.co.uk Guidelines Helping to make your business for buskers Mary Rose’s boss Helen premises a safer place for MAIDSTONE Borough Coun- cil is considering a set of guide- www.genie-bio-clean.co.uk/c lines to control street busking. finds new role at castle It recognises the contribution [email protected] of busking and street entertain- THE new boss of Leeds Castle is ever now to care for this extraor- ing brings to the vibrancy and Helen Bonser-Wilton, who is dinary place. Antimicrobial surface treatment character of the town. currently the chief executive of “We will be developing our can stop the contamination and Restaurants, Retail Outlets and However, a report says: the Mary Rose Trust in offer to encourage more visiting spread of COVID-19 and many Private Residences are all “There needs to be a balance Portsmouth. during this season, as well as car- other known pathogens. with needs and rights of local She takes over in March from ing for the unique heritage assets residents and workers so they Sir David Steel, who left last year so that future generations can An ecofriendly service Visit our website for more are not adversely impacted by after five years, following his ap- enjoy them as much as the current information and to contact us for it, especially those near popular pointment by the Queen as the generation.” that decontaminates a whole busking sites.” Governor of Gibraltar. Caretaker chief executive Robin room or premises and leaves a consultation. The council ran a consulta- Helen, pictured, becomes chief Richman will continue in his role an undetectable antimicrobial tion in September and Novem- executive of the Leeds Castle as deputy chief executive and fi- protection on surfaces that lasts ber and 79 of the 93 responses Foundation at one of its most cru- nancial director. for up to 27 days. favoured introducing guide- cial times in recent history. Niall Dickson, chairman of the lines while 67 saw proposals as The pandemic has put serious Leeds Castle Foundation, added: proportionate. Tested against COVID-19 and The key proposed guidelines strain on the treasure house’s rev- “We are very much looking for- over 100 other pathogens. include allocating performance enues, with millions lost from ward to Helen joining us in spaces and distances between prolonged closures, loss of the March. them; limiting the length of per- foreign tourist market and can- “She brings a wealth of experi- formances; and fixing levels of celled big ticket events such as the ence and a great track record. Genie Bio Clean Canterbury volume. classical concert and fireworks. Helen’s arrival will enable us to The proposals, after consid- Dozens of long-serving staff lost COVID-19 crisis has wrought build on what has been achieved contact Mike: 07951 073 880 eration by the council’s Licens- their jobs. huge damage on our income. and create an exciting future, pre- ing Committee, will go out for Helen said: “Leeds Castle is a “As a charity that relies on in- serving this national icon and de- [email protected] further consultation. key player in the Kent and south- come from visitors, we need the veloping the experience for east visitor economy, but the support of the public more than everyone who comes here.” www.genie-bio-clean.co.uk/canterbury

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13 Support your Local Businesses during Lockdown

AS THE third national lockdown to support us. es. We face the same issues as any becomes a reality, it is surprising Sales manager Sara Henslow other business and we're happy just how many local rms are said: "We're a local, communi- to lend a hand to those rms who still out there and open for ty-minded news media business- are prepared to support us." business. And from these pages, one can see there is a wide variety of companies, shops, start-ups, sole traders and service providers who are able to keep going under the Government's rules. As a key public service provider, this newspaper is one of them. Downs Mail, as a family-run local business, has proved time and again it has a commitment to supporting those who continue

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17 News downsmail.co.uk Crime squad in 60 charges Concerns for river as A SPECIAL team of police officers chalked up 60 charges and two dozen arrests in December. The Chief Constable’s Crime egg farm proposed Squad issued 67 charges to crimi- PLANS for a free range egg farm nal suspects for alleged robbery, near Hunton have been submit- fraud, theft and burglary. ted to the council . An artist’s A number of criminals were also The proposal by Fridays Ltd jailed, including a woman in her would see three 250-metre sheds, impression of 20s who stole jewellery and mobile each housing 64,000 birds, at Reed the proposed phones worth more than £100,000. Court Farm, . chicken sheds Detective Inspector Darren Opponents are concerned about at Reeds Reynolds said: “A theme we have pollutions, smells and traffic. Court Farm, seen from the results achieved last Fridays claims it will plant 36,000 Chainhurst month is the use of distraction native trees to create 20 hectares of techniques, which is highlighted in woodland at “Wealden Woods”. Graham Fuller, production man- logically disastrous to locate a free- our successful prosecution of a One main concern voiced by ager at Fridays, said: “Our plans range poultry farm so close to the woman who stole jewellery and WeLoveChainhurst is possible for Wealden Woods would lessen River Beult. mobile phones from unsuspecting damage to the River Beult caused dependence [on imported eggs] by “Chicken manure has a very shop staff across the county. by contaminants in chicken waste . supplying some 60m eggs for the high phosphate level, which trig- “She would build up the victim’s However, the applicant claims UK market from a facility that will gers water eutrophication ... trig- trust before making subtle move- waste will be taken off site without comply with or exceed the RSPCA gering algae blooms that can ments to steal property as soon as damaging the environment. Assured standard. remove oxygen in the river.” an opportunity presented itself.” Opponents say there are many “This farm would operate to the A statement from the firm She was jailed for 4.5 years. areas of concern “that need to be highest environmental and welfare claims: “Environmental initiatives A Maidstone man was re- addressed...to reassure our com- standards, improve food security, include removing manure from the manded in custody following a re- munity that our beautiful environ- create jobs and be part of our in- houses for treatment in a nearby port he tried to rob a person in the ment will not be lost or damaged ... vestment in Kent’s rural economy.” anaerobic digestion plant to pro- county town at knifepoint. He will reducing the future values of our Anthony Drewe, who lives in the duce biogas for export to the grid appear at Maidstone Crown Court properties or impacting on daily village and has a degree in ecology and an odour-less agricultural fer- in early January. life”. and zoology, said: “It could be eco- tiliser.” Advertisement Feature

18 News downsmail.co.uk Crime squad in 60 charges Concerns for river as A SPECIAL team of police officers chalked up 60 charges and two dozen arrests in December. The Chief Constable’s Crime egg farm proposed Squad issued 67 charges to crimi- PLANS for a free range egg farm nal suspects for alleged robbery, near Hunton have been submit- fraud, theft and burglary. ted to the council . An artist’s A number of criminals were also The proposal by Fridays Ltd jailed, including a woman in her would see three 250-metre sheds, impression of 20s who stole jewellery and mobile each housing 64,000 birds, at Reed the proposed phones worth more than £100,000. Court Farm, Chainhurst. chicken sheds Detective Inspector Darren Opponents are concerned about at Reeds Reynolds said: “A theme we have pollutions, smells and traffic. Court Farm, seen from the results achieved last Fridays claims it will plant 36,000 Chainhurst month is the use of distraction native trees to create 20 hectares of techniques, which is highlighted in woodland at “Wealden Woods”. Graham Fuller, production man- logically disastrous to locate a free- our successful prosecution of a One main concern voiced by ager at Fridays, said: “Our plans range poultry farm so close to the woman who stole jewellery and WeLoveChainhurst is possible for Wealden Woods would lessen River Beult. mobile phones from unsuspecting damage to the River Beult caused dependence [on imported eggs] by “Chicken manure has a very shop staff across the county. by contaminants in chicken waste . supplying some 60m eggs for the high phosphate level, which trig- “She would build up the victim’s However, the applicant claims UK market from a facility that will gers water eutrophication ... trig- trust before making subtle move- waste will be taken off site without comply with or exceed the RSPCA gering algae blooms that can ments to steal property as soon as damaging the environment. Assured standard. remove oxygen in the river.” an opportunity presented itself.” Opponents say there are many “This farm would operate to the A statement from the firm She was jailed for 4.5 years. areas of concern “that need to be highest environmental and welfare claims: “Environmental initiatives A Maidstone man was re- addressed...to reassure our com- standards, improve food security, include removing manure from the manded in custody following a re- munity that our beautiful environ- create jobs and be part of our in- houses for treatment in a nearby port he tried to rob a person in the ment will not be lost or damaged ... vestment in Kent’s rural economy.” anaerobic digestion plant to pro- county town at knifepoint. He will reducing the future values of our Anthony Drewe, who lives in the duce biogas for export to the grid appear at Maidstone Crown Court properties or impacting on daily village and has a degree in ecology and an odour-less agricultural fer- in early January. life”. and zoology, said: “It could be eco- tiliser.”

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19 News downsmail.co.uk New PR role MAIDSTONE digital marketing New building to replace and PR agency, Pillory Barn, have announced the appointment of Sinead Hanna as strategic commu- nications director. The Maidstone Studios-based beloved Heather House agency, established in 1993, works with public and private sector or- A MUCH-loved but rundown ganisations throughout the UK. community centre in Maidstone Former journalist Sinead has is to be replaced. over 15 years experience in digital The borough council is propos- marketing, including time as se- ing to put in a planning application nior communications manager at for Heather House, Road, Dreamland Margate and roles with Park Wood after a controversial Visit Kent and Ashford Borough debate at a meeting of the council’s Council. communities, housing and envi- She said: “I’m delighted to join ronment Committee. Pillory Barn. No other agency in The main sticking point was the Kent knows the B2B and public level of rugby club involvement, sector better and I hope I can add which led to Liberal Democrats Campaigners John Barned, Matt Burton, Gary Cooke and Marion Ring to their successes in 2021.” seeking a deferment. The work would be part-funded The officer report sets out op- But lead campaigner and ward (£500,000 or more) from the plan tions to the council committee, councillor Cllr Matt Burton (Con), for 11 houses on the site of the which agreed to recommend that a Food appeal convinced members there was no Pavilion Building, previously planning application be submitted, THE Kings Hill food bank at St. “takeover” by the club and the em- leased to Royal British Legion. bringing greater certainty for the Gabriel’s Church is in need of the phasis was on providing a de- The balance is a financial chal- community, a management ar- following donations: tins of carrots, prived area with a true community lenge for the hard-pressed council rangement and other potential fi- potatoes, mashed potato, chicken centre. The vote ended 8-0. and now Weavering Warriors nancial supporters, including a casserole, vegetable casserole and The centre was closed by the Rugby Club, Invicta Panthers and Government grant and the sports stews, as wells as flour and hand- council in 2017 due to the state of a running club have added over and national bodies. wash. the building. There were plans for £200,000 to this problem by re- A further report would be For details go to www.king- refurbishment, but later a new questing additional facilities, in- needed to approve final scheme shillchurch.org.uk/food-parcels. building was preferred. cluding changing rooms. costs. p20

20 News downsmail.co.uk New PR role MAIDSTONE SOUTH & SOUTH EAST NEWS AND VIEWS MAIDSTONE digital marketing New building to replace So Much For A Happy New Year. We were proud therefore to see the rm stance that KCC and PR agency, Pillory Barn, have Highways took in resisting the planning application from announced the appointment of As we progress into the new year, a year that we had hoped Bellway for 421 houses on Church Road, Otham. Gary Sinead Hanna as strategic commu- would bring with it new hope we nd ourselves still in the worked extensively and cooperatively with local parish nications director. grip of the pandemic and restricted by lockdown. We’ve councils, local communities and resident groups to The Maidstone Studios-based beloved Heather House gone from tiers to tears and have returned to our doorsteps persuade MBC to refuse planning permission and we were agency, established in 1993, works to cheer and applaud the unstinting support of our front line so pleased that these eorts were recognised by our with public and private sector or- A MUCH-loved but rundown workers and carers and in particular our heroes in the NHS. Conservative colleagues on MBC who with some cross party ganisations throughout the UK. community centre in Maidstone support ensured that MBC councillors rejected these plans Former journalist Sinead has is to be replaced. Our most sincere hope is that the AstraZeneca vaccine three times. The borough council is propos- developed in the UK with UK Government funding will over 15 years experience in digital It was therefore a devastating disappointment to learn that KCC Cllr Paul Cooper ing to put in a planning application deliver eective and sucient immunisation to allow some marketing, including time as se- measure of return to normality as soon as possible. despite such overwhelming opposition, that a planning nior communications manager at for Heather House, Bicknor Road, inspector decided to nevertheless grant permission. Dreamland Margate and roles with Park Wood after a controversial In the meantime, KCC continues to oer support through Visit Kent and Ashford Borough debate at a meeting of the council’s the KENT TOGETHER programme for anyone that needs Ultimately, this comes back to a process whereby there is a Council. communities, housing and envi- help and is maintaining a single telephone number that is perception of planning ocers becoming far too cosy with She said: “I’m delighted to join ronment Committee. available for use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. developers, which creates doubt about their objectivity, Pillory Barn. No other agency in The main sticking point was the and makes it incredibly dicult for elected councillors to Telephone 03000 41 92 92 reject ocers recommendations. The system is already far Kent knows the B2B and public level of rugby club involvement, which led to Liberal Democrats Campaigners John Barned, Matt Burton, Gary Cooke and Marion Ring Please don’t suer in silence, if you need help then reach too biased in favour of developers to the detriment of the sector better and I hope I can add out and call! interests of local communities and needs to be rebalanced. to their successes in 2021.” seeking a deferment. The work would be part-funded The officer report sets out op- But lead campaigner and ward (£500,000 or more) from the plan tions to the council committee, As County Councillors we believe our job is to champion We will always stand up for our local communities. councillor Cllr Matt Burton (Con), for 11 houses on the site of the which agreed to recommend that a and represent the views of our local communities to Kent Food appeal convinced members there was no Pavilion Building, previously planning application be submitted, County Council and in so doing to inuence decision With all best wishes, Paul & Gary THE Kings Hill food bank at St. “takeover” by the club and the em- leased to Royal British Legion. bringing greater certainty for the making to support those views! KCC Cllr Gary Cooke Gabriel’s Church is in need of the phasis was on providing a de- The balance is a financial chal- community, a management ar- following donations: tins of carrots, prived area with a true community lenge for the hard-pressed council rangement and other potential fi- potatoes, mashed potato, chicken centre. The vote ended 8-0. and now Weavering Warriors nancial supporters, including a casserole, vegetable casserole and The centre was closed by the Rugby Club, Invicta Panthers and Government grant and the sports Maidstone South & stews, as wells as flour and hand- council in 2017 due to the state of a running club have added over and national bodies. wash. the building. There were plans for £200,000 to this problem by re- A further report would be For details go to www.king- refurbishment, but later a new questing additional facilities, in- needed to approve final scheme Maidstone South East Conservatives cluding changing rooms. costs. shillchurch.org.uk/food-parcels. building was preferred. Contact Details; [email protected] [email protected] HAMILTON KITCHENS p20 Quality & Design At The Right Price

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www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk 21 News downsmail.co.uk Food vouchers KENT County Council issued 31,000 food vouchers to needy Extra police ‘just a families ahead of Christmas. Last year, KCC started a scheme to provide food vouchers to the families of children who are eligible for free school meals. pre-election stunt’ Leader of KCC, Roger Gough said: “I would like to thank head teachers and their staff who THE Kent Police and Crime recruited or trained yet.” worked quickly to provide KCC Commissioner’s announcement The PCC was unable to say how with details of their eligible pupils of 145 new officers for the many officers will be allocated to so that we could issue vouchers.” county has been denounced as a the Maidstone area. About 30% of schools opted to pre-election political stunt. Cllr Powell agreed with a sug- run their own voucher schemes. While commissioner Matthew gestion the numbers would The scheme was funded from a Scott welcomed a government an- equate to roughly 10 new officers share of the Government’s £170m nouncement the force will get the per council area, adding: “It’s piti- Covid Winter Grant Scheme. extra staff, Eddie Powell (pictured), ful. Bearing in mind Commis- Families received a £15 voucher borough council- sioner Scott is standing for for every eligible child per week lor for Shepway South, said: “It’s re-election this year, we must ex- of the two-week December holi- just another political statement. pect more of these political state- day. “Tax-payers will be providing ments and stunts in the months for this. It is certainly not out of ahead. the government’s kindness of “Whilst it might seem churlish Rail bridge hit heart – it’s just a stunt.” to be dismissive of the new offi- SOUTHEASTERN train services Announcing a grant increase of cers, frankly, 10 officers wouldn’t were disrupted after a vehicle hit £10.1m for Kent Police, the Home be enough to properly police a a railway bridge in West Malling. Office also provided an opportu- lice numbers to 3,992 by March single ward in Maidstone, much Services were forced to run at a nity for the PCC to increase coun- 2022, more than ever before. less the whole borough. reduced speed between West cil tax by £15 per year for an A spokesman for the PCC said: “If they actually responded to Malling and Borough Green after average band D property. “These extra officers are what is people’s concerns about crime in- the incident in Church Road at Should the extra 145 officers coming through the pipeline in stead of paying lip service to us, about 2pm on January 11. materialise, it will bring Kent Po- the future, so they have not been we might be less cynical.”

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22 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Food vouchers KENT County Council issued 31,000 food vouchers to needy Extra police ‘just a Homeless problems ‘growing’ families ahead of Christmas. Last year, KCC started a MAIDSTONE'S major and growing problems in housing homeless people have been faced by scheme to provide food vouchers the borough’s communities, housing and environment committee. to the families of children who are eligible for free school meals. pre-election stunt’ This follows a “dramatic” annual sider how it allocates its resources, Leader of KCC, Roger Gough growth in approaches to the coun- based on household composition, cil – 654 in 2017/18, 1,214 in community contribution including said: “I would like to thank head Staff outside THE Kent Police and Crime recruited or trained yet.” 2018/19, 1,327 in 2019/20 and 856 in work and volunteering, and social teachers and their staff who Lily Smith worked quickly to provide KCC Commissioner’s announcement The PCC was unable to say how 2020/21 (to December 16). Many, and welfare needs. House, which with details of their eligible pupils of 145 new officers for the many officers will be allocated to mostly from outside Maidstone, The committee approved a new so that we could issue vouchers.” county has been denounced as a the Maidstone area. are fleeing domestic abuse. placement policy, based on house- aims to About 30% of schools opted to pre-election political stunt. Cllr Powell agreed with a sug- This has led to a greater demand hold priorities involving needs and provide run their own voucher schemes. While commissioner Matthew gestion the numbers would for longer-term accommodation – affordability, to offer the most ap- terminally-ill The scheme was funded from a Scott welcomed a government an- equate to roughly 10 new officers both affordable housing through propriate accommodation. homeless share of the Government’s £170m nouncement the force will get the per council area, adding: “It’s piti- the council’s housing register and It states: “In offering accommo- people with Covid Winter Grant Scheme. extra staff, Eddie Powell (pictured), ful. Bearing in mind Commis- in the private rented sector, dation we will consider a number palliative Families received a £15 voucher the independent borough council- sioner Scott is standing for through its Homefinder Service. of factors to ensure suitability and care for every eligible child per week lor for Shepway South, said: “It’s re-election this year, we must ex- An officer report to the commit- will be transparent with applicants of the two-week December holi- just another political statement. pect more of these political state- tee indicated: “The pool of afford- about the rationale. able units in Maidstone is “If the applicant refuses the offer day. “Tax-payers will be providing ments and stunts in the months shrinking as new-build cannot and cannot provide further evi- Palliative care for the sick for this. It is certainly not out of ahead. HEART of Kent Hospice has launched a new homelessness project which keep pace with demand. We find it dence it would be unsuitable, we the government’s kindness of “Whilst it might seem churlish will see staff at Lily Smith House, in Knightrider Street, Maidstone work considerably more difficult to place will discharge our duty and no Rail bridge hit heart – it’s just a stunt.” to be dismissive of the new offi- with customers with a terminal illness. the growing number of house- longer be under a duty to secure SOUTHEASTERN train services Announcing a grant increase of cers, frankly, 10 officers wouldn’t The scheme has been secured through funding from Thomas Deane holds in our district boundaries.” accommodation for the applicant. were disrupted after a vehicle hit £10.1m for Kent Police, the Home be enough to properly police a Trust. Jackie Pritchard, clinical educator for Heart of Kent Hospice, said: The borough council is “compet- “An ongoing duty to provide ad- a railway bridge in West Malling. Office also provided an opportu- lice numbers to 3,992 by March single ward in Maidstone, much “It’s important to us that we are inclusive, and our services are accessible ing for both temporary and longer- vice and assistance continues and Services were forced to run at a nity for the PCC to increase coun- 2022, more than ever before. less the whole borough. to everyone who needs us. term accommodation with other this may include access to the reduced speed between West cil tax by £15 per year for an A spokesman for the PCC said: “If they actually responded to “We know that some people who have been affected by homelessness districts and boroughs, including Housing Register and assistance Malling and Borough Green after average band D property. “These extra officers are what is people’s concerns about crime in- can face severe health problems and early deaths.” unitary London authorities, who with obtaining private rented ac- the incident in Church Road at Should the extra 145 officers coming through the pipeline in stead of paying lip service to us, Penny Miller, service manager for Lily Smith House said: “By working with have far more generous budgets commodation.” about 2pm on January 11. materialise, it will bring Kent Po- the future, so they have not been we might be less cynical.” Heart of Kent Hospice, we can now help people affected by homelessness and funding streams than Maid- In the last two years, the borough in Maidstone who are seriously ill to be cared for here at the end of their stone. One London authority has placed 147 households in lives, if that is their wish.” (Bromley) has placed 189 house- longer-term private rented accom- Heart of Kent Hospice hopes the project will help more people who are holds from its area in Maidstone.” modation, including 30 outside likely to die within a year, to receive the appropriate palliative care. This has led Maidstone to con- Maidstone district. Court hears TV mummy MAIDSTONE Museum’s mummy was featured in a Channel 5 docu- of stabbing mentary on December 7. AN AYLESFORD teenager is ac- Egypt’s Great Mummies, filmed cused of stabbing a man in his 30s over a year ago, focused on the in Maidstone. museum’s scanning, academic re- p22 David Abraham (19) of Ingram search and identification of a fully Close, Aylesford, is alleged to wrapped mummy presumed to be have seriously assaulted a man in that of a hawk. Mill Lane at about 11.30am on The show was presented by his- November 23. The victim had suf- torian Bettany Hughes. fered an injury consistent with a Collections manager Samantha stab wound and was taken to hos- Harris said: “This highlights the pital where he is in a stable con- dition. amazing artefacts we have in Mr Abraham was charged with Maidstone.” causing grievous bodily harm Man ‘hit by supercar’ with intent and possessing a A MAN has been arrested after a pedestrian was hit by a car in Pet rehoming bladed weapon in a public place. Maidstone. ANIMAL charity the RSPCA will He appeared at Medway Magis- The incident happened in Sutton Road, near the junction with continue to rehome rescued ani- trates’ Court and was remanded. Horseshoes Lane, at around 2pm on January 10. mals, despite the lockdown. A 19-year-old woman from Maid- The pedestrian was treated for injuries and the road re-opened Dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets and stone was bailed to a later date. at around 5.20pm. Investigators are appealing for A Kent Police spokesman said: “Officers and South East Coast other small animals will remain anybody who witnessed the inci- Ambulance Service attended and the pedestrian was treated for available for adoption via a virtual dent to contact the appeal line on injuries. rehoming and delivery process. 01622 604100, quoting crime refer- “The road was closed while emergency services were at the Prospective adopters can speak ence 46/209073/20. You can also scene and re-opened at around 5.20pm. to RSPCA staff and meet animals contact the independent charity “The driver, a 60-year-old man from Gravesend, was arrested via video conferencing and photo Crimestoppers anonymously by on suspicion of dangerous driving and was later released pend- sharing. Pets will be delivered by calling 0800 555 111 or using the ing further investigation.” an RSPCA staff member once the anonymous online form. rehoming has been approved.

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26 downsmail.co.uk News Council hands over sports park TMACTIVE, the leisure facilities provider, has been given the task of turning around the fortunes of the troubled Kings Hill Sports Park. Handing over control of the followed a review by the Local Tmactive fail to make a success of sports ground, which boasts an Council Consultancy (LCC), the sports park, KHPC has to all-weather football pitch and which warned last October that make financial restitution. I can pavilion, is the latest attempt by the authority has “little or no re- never agree to that. owner Kings Hill Parish Council serves left”. “There has been no business (KHPC) to resolve its “parlous” fi- LCC report author Chris Finlay plan for the last 18 months.” nancial position. said KHPC has a “credibility Cllr Petty, himself a former In addition to tmactive agreeing problem” over its running of the parish council chairman, argues to manage the sports park, the Sports park and “unproductive the council staffing costs are too parish council has received an in- tensions within in the council and high, running at £400,000 per terest-free bridging loan of the community…have brought year. £60,000 from Tonbridge and the council to the brink of techni- He suggests the only way for- Malling Borough Council cal insolvency”. ward is for the whole council to (TMBC), to be repaid in two sep- The council admits in back- stand down and seek re-election arate tranches. ground papers for December’s to regain public confidence. The operating costs of the site meeting that it “no longer holds The LCC review conducted last have proved a continuous drain reserves for this financial year and October concluded that cash flow on parish resources. the full amount of precept (bud- problems underscored the sever- While the decision for tmactive The charitable, not-for-profit get) is being used as revenue ity of the financial position, but assuming day-to-day control of outfit already successfully runs funds”. added that decision-making had the sports park was far from four major sites in the area for Cllr Tony Petty, pictured, who been characterised by “over-opti- unanimous, solicitors have been TMBC. voted against the tmactive man- mistic forecasting and a failure to instructed to prepare legal docu- The decisions, taken at a parish agement plan, claimed: “The pro- recognise revenue does not ments for council agreement. council meeting on December 16, posal includes terms that should equate with profit”. Drug dealer Road closures sent to prison for gas repairs A DRUG dealer has been jailed A SERIES of Staplehurst roads will after being caught supplying co- have to close for emergency gas caine and cannabis from his Mer- works. cedes in Maidstone. Phase one of the closures will in- Peter Sowatskey (34) caught the clude Marden Road, which will attention of police for not wearing close from January 18 for one a seatbelt in the early hours of week, from outside Homefields to February 12, 2020. the junction with Clapper Lane. A search of his car led to the The alternative route is via A229 discovery of a rucksack contain- Station Road, Maidstone Road, Sta- ing drugs. Around £1,515 in cash plehurst Road, B2079 Maidstone, was found in a coat pocket. Howland Road and Marden Road. He was arrested and, after ini- Phase two will see Marden Road tially providing police with a false close again from January 25 for up address, his home was searched. £50k boost for hospice to four weeks, between the junc- tions with Clapper Lane and Lin- More than 1kg of cocaine and HEART of Kent Hospice has received a massive £50,000 donation after dridge Lane. Clapper Lane and 10kg of cannabis were seized, seeing a significant rise in terminal illness referrals as a result of COVID-19. Pagehurst Road will be closed. along with £24,266 in cash. The charity says there has been a “huge increase” in the need for spe- Phase three will see Marden Sowatskey breached his bail cialist support as the repercussions of missed diagnoses and treatments Road shut from February 15 for up conditions and was arrested again become even more evident during the pandemic. at a guest house in Cornwall on Colyer-Fergusson Charitable Trust donated the cash to help the hospice to two weeks from the junction February 15. More cannabis was care for patients and their families in the difficult months ahead. Sarah with Lindridge Lane to outside Lit- seized as well as a further £20,000 Pugh, chief executive of the hospice, said: “The funding has come at a cru- tle Acre. Lindridge Lane will also in cash. cial time for the whole team. We expect to see referrals continue to in- close. At Maidstone Crown Court, crease throughout this, our 30th anniversary year.” For details, call SGN on 0800 Sowatskey admitted possessing 111999. cocaine and cannabis with intent to supply, possessing cannabis and two counts of possessing Teacher offers lesson help Lane to shut criminal property. PRIMARY school teacher Emily Emily, who grew up in Snod- A ROAD is set to close in Langley On December 21, he was sen- Fisher is coming to the aid of par- land, said: “Our plan is to create for electrical works. Horseshoes tenced to four years in prison. ents struggling with home school- videos explaining key methods Lane will shut between 8am and He was also disqualified from ing during the lockdown. and strategies as well as posting 5pm on January 17, between North driving for two years after admit- Emily (27), a teacher, and for- links to free resources and an- View and Ambleside Oast. ting two further counts of driving mer colleagues from Oaklands in swering questions.” The alternative route is via A274 with a proportion of a controlled , have set up the Pri- Find Primary Lockdown Learn- Sutton Road, Maidstone Road, drug above the specified limit. mary Lockdown Learning Group. ing on the group’s Facebook page. Leeds Road, Heath Road.

27 News downsmail.co.uk Anger at plan for more homes OPPOSITION is growing to plans by developer Croudace Homes to build another 330 properties on land east of Hermitage Lane. The outline application submit- sinkholes.” ted in December has already re- Two estates would adjoin but ceived over 130 letters of objection lie in different boroughs, each of and a protest group has created a which faces its own Government Facebook page called No To Her- housing targets. mitage Park Expansion. The of last month’s planning Croudace already owns the application led to accusations of neighbouring Hermitage Park de- Croudace trying to camouflage its velopment of 500 homes, which intentions. lies within the borough of Maid- Cllr Colin Williams said: stone. This latest site, south of “Councillors are required to make Barming Station, falls in the bor- decisions in line with planning ough of Tonbridge and Malling. law, and guidance, and unfortu- Many objections express con- nately that often limits the choices cern that the extra housing will that can be made. exacerbate existing traffic prob- “Even though I don’t want it to lems along Hermitage Lane, go through, I’ve no choice as my which serves as the main access hands are tied.” road to Maidstone Hospital. A spokesman for Tonbridge Josh Clark, one of the founders and Malling Borough Council of No To Hermitage Park Expan- Another wrote: “Traffic prob- will occupy the last remaining said: “Neighbours’ comments, the sion, said: “This site is about the lems cause risks to emergency ac- area of open green space along impact on surrounding roads, the only bit of open green space left, cess to the hospital. Housing is Hermitage Lane. natural environment and local fa- There are footpaths across it and not the solution. Traffic improve- One objector wrote: “The infras- cilities are all taken into account it's an important area for people in ments are.” tructure isn’t coping and the when deciding an application of Hermitage Lane and Allington.” If plans proceed, new homes ground clearly isn’t, with all the this type.” Winter help Houses agreed TWO houses can be built to re- place the Courtyard Studios next with pipes to grade II-listed A WATER company has ad- House, on Hollingbourne Hill, vised its customers to carry say planners. out a “winter MOT” on their Maidstone Council officers said homes to prevent burst pipes. the proposal would remove the South East Water, which photographic studio and provide provides drinking water for two family homes and improve- Kent, warns of problems in at- ments to neighbouring amenity. tics and outbuildings caused Historic walls would be re- by freezing temperatures. stored and gardens brought back Steve Andrews, head of in to use. central operations, said: The committee was concerned “Burst pipes are a very un- about design and said build ma- pleasant and inconvenient Neighbours clear path terials must reflect the area. problem, and when they hap- A GROUP of community-spirited residents from Wheatfields and Har- pen inside the home or in the vesters Way spent their New Year break clearing fallen leaves and branches boundary of a property they from a pathway in Grovewood Drive South. Flats at park are usually the responsibility The pathway near the bus stop and Harvesters Way had not been A PLANNING application has of the householder to repair.” cleared by Maidstone Borough Council since recent heavy rain and gales now been submitted for two The utility company says its had made it slippery and dangerous. buildings with 172 residential customers can take “easy” When an elderly person using walking aids almost fell due to the condi- apartments and 1,169sqm of com- steps to protect exposed taps tions, the group took to the street and filled several garden waste bins with mercial space at Mote Road car by accessing free insulation mud and fallen debris, to make the path safe again. park, Maidstone. kits which it provides. The clear-up was organised by Vanessa Hayday, Chris Smith and It includes demolition of Shan- An online directory Water- Josephine Rodgers and Barry Rodgers. don House. There would be a Safe is the plumbing indus- new access to the site and 47 try’s national accreditation parking places. body and has a list of ap- Bubble run for hospice is back proved plumbers. THIS year’s Bubble Rush, which was postponed last year due to Retirement plan For the winter kit, addi- COVID-19 guidelines, is now scehduled to take place at Mote Park on PLANNING permission has now tional advice and a video on Sunday, June 13. been given for 24 extra-care re- how to protect water pipes go The fun run in aid of Demelza Hospice features four stations along tirement homes and a club house to southeastwater.co.uk/win- a route where cannons pump put coloured foam. Every course is fam- on land west of 70 Church Road, ter. ily friendly and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Boughton Monchelsea. 28 News downsmail.co.uk Anger at plan for more homes A personal approach with The Family Funeral Service Family Funeral behind the second - generation business that simple, we sit with you in our office or your service has been has been helping families in the area for over home or over the phone, taking you slowly OPPOSITION is growing to plans by developer Croudace Homes to build another 330 bringing its 40 years. and methodically through the various properties on land east of Hermitage Lane. personal service to During these difficult times, due to Covid decisions that you will face and the options Headcorn for 3 restrictions, we have worked very hard to available to you. Sometimes it’s just good to The outline application submit- sinkholes.” years now. We ensure each and every family still gets the sit and talk to someone with ted in December has already re- Two estates would adjoin but now offer a personal service and that all their require- experience and compassion ceived over 130 letters of objection lie in different boroughs, each of friendly service to ments are fulfilled within the everchanging before making a decision.” and a protest group has created a which faces its own Government even more people guidelines. We can offer lots of alternatives Contact Family Funeral Facebook page called No To Her- housing targets. in the Maidstone to the standard funeral and can arrange mitage Park Expansion. The of last month’s planning Service on and surrounding everything for you. Croudace already owns the application led to accusations of Bearsted 01622 920305 neighbouring Hermitage Park de- Croudace trying to camouflage its areas. Michael Lawrence said: ”the loss of a loved Barming 01622 920300 velopment of 500 homes, which intentions. The Family owned and family run business one is never easy to cope with, and the Headcorn 01622 930306. lies within the borough of Maid- Cllr Colin Williams said: offers a personal approach, with the option added stress of making the arrangements stone. This latest site, south of “Councillors are required to make of home visits and access to a friendly voice can often bring further emotional upset. Barming Station, falls in the bor- decisions in line with planning 24 hours a day. Operating out of Bearsted, With our experience of making funeral ough of Tonbridge and Malling. law, and guidance, and unfortu- Family funeral Service is run by Michael arrangements we have learned how to help Many objections express con- nately that often limits the choices Lawrence, along with Karan at Bearsted, Rik families have and be part of a meaningful cern that the extra housing will that can be made. at Barming and Jo at Headcorn – the team service that celebrates life. Our approach is exacerbate existing traffic prob- “Even though I don’t want it to lems along Hermitage Lane, go through, I’ve no choice as my which serves as the main access hands are tied.” Funeral Planner Of The Year 2018 road to Maidstone Hospital. A spokesman for Tonbridge Josh Clark, one of the founders and Malling Borough Council South East London Region Winner of No To Hermitage Park Expan- Another wrote: “Traffic prob- will occupy the last remaining said: “Neighbours’ comments, the Find us at: sion, said: “This site is about the lems cause risks to emergency ac- area of open green space along impact on surrounding roads, the 4 Cavendish Way, 59 High Street, Marlborough Parade, only bit of open green space left, cess to the hospital. Housing is Hermitage Lane. natural environment and local fa- There are footpaths across it and not the solution. Traffic improve- One objector wrote: “The infras- cilities are all taken into account Ashford Road, Bearsted, Headcorn 6 Beverley Road, it's an important area for people in ments are.” tructure isn’t coping and the when deciding an application of Maidstone ME15 8PW TN27 9QA Maidstone ME16 9JN Hermitage Lane and Allington.” If plans proceed, new homes ground clearly isn’t, with all the this type.” 01622 920305 01622 920306 01622 920300 Winter help Houses agreed TWO houses can be built to re- place the Courtyard Studios next with pipes to grade II-listed Hollingbourne Your is available to pick-up A WATER company has ad- House, on Hollingbourne Hill, vised its customers to carry say planners. from a store near you, every fortnight and FREE out a “winter MOT” on their Maidstone Council officers said homes to prevent burst pipes. the proposal would remove the South East Water, which photographic studio and provide provides drinking water for two family homes and improve- Aylesford Newsagents Asda Sainsburys - Romney place Co-Op Kent, warns of problems in at- ments to neighbouring amenity. Sainsburys Grafty Green Kingswood Staplehurst tics and outbuildings caused Historic walls would be re- Co-Op – Willington St by freezing temperatures. stored and gardens brought back Bearsted New Avenue Stores WM Morrison s - Sutton road Station Newsagents Steve Andrews, head of in to use. Taylors Newsagents Halling Ask me Point – The Mall Sutton Valence central operations, said: The committee was concerned “Burst pipes are a very un- Neighbours clear path about design and said build ma- Co-Op WM Morrisons Royal Star Arcade Café Haven farm Shop pleasant and inconvenient terials must reflect the area. Stephen Grey Chiropody Harriestham Lenham Fruit Stall -Week Street Shay Service Station problem, and when they hap- A GROUP of community-spirited residents from Wheatfields and Har- pen inside the home or in the vesters Way spent their New Year break clearing fallen leaves and branches Flats at park Mace Stores Village Stores M&S - Eclipse Park West Malling boundary of a property they from a pathway in Grovewood Drive South. The Shop on the Green Co-Op Lunsford Lunsford Tesco Exra Parkfoot Garage are usually the responsibility The pathway near the bus stop and Harvesters Way had not been A PLANNING application has Tesco Metro of the householder to repair.” cleared by Maidstone Borough Council since recent heavy rain and gales now been submitted for two Headcorn Tesco Extra Marden The utility company says its had made it slippery and dangerous. buildings with 172 residential Londis Maidstone Stanley’s of Marden Yalding customers can take “easy” When an elderly person using walking aids almost fell due to the condi- apartments and 1,169sqm of com- Detling Hollingbourne Newnham Court Shopping Village Snodland steps to protect exposed taps tions, the group took to the street and filled several garden waste bins with mercial space at Mote Road car by accessing free insulation mud and fallen debris, to make the path safe again. park, Maidstone. Community Store Woods of Hollingbourne Tesco – Grove Green A’n’ D Bargains Foods The clear-up was organised by Vanessa Hayday, Chris Smith and It includes demolition of Shan- kits which it provides. Eccles Kings Hill Tesco – Farleigh Hill An online directory Water- Josephine Rodgers and Barry Rodgers. don House. There would be a Safe is the plumbing indus- new access to the site and 47 parking places. try’s national accreditation You can also read all editions online at: body and has a list of ap- Bubble run for hospice is back www.downsmail.co.uk proved plumbers. THIS year’s Bubble Rush, which was postponed last year due to Retirement plan For the winter kit, addi- COVID-19 guidelines, is now scehduled to take place at Mote Park on PLANNING permission has now or tional advice and a video on Sunday, June 13. been given for 24 extra-care re- You can have the newspapers posted to you, every fortnight how to protect water pipes go The fun run in aid of Demelza Hospice features four stations along tirement homes and a club house Annual subscription (24 copies) £25 to cover cost of postage and packing. to southeastwater.co.uk/win- a route where cannons pump put coloured foam. Every course is fam- on land west of 70 Church Road, ter. ily friendly and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Boughton Monchelsea. Call: 01622 630330 or Email: [email protected]

29 News downsmail.co.uk Climate change goals ‘on track’ A KENT environment chief says climate change targets remain “on track”, despite concerns about major road and airport plans for the county, writes Ciaran Duggan. Cllr Susan Carey (Con), Kent Manston Airport in Thanet. the £8.2billion Lower Thames County Council’s (KCC) environ- Car and air travel ground to a Crossing, which would see 14 ment cabinet member, said the halt when the Coronavirus pan- miles of tunnel roads linking amount of harmful greenhouse demic first struck the UK in March Gravesend to Thurrock in Essex. gases emitted from the authority’s and people were told to stay in KCC Green Party leader, Cllr estate have continued to reduce their homes during a national lock- Martin Whybrow, called for an ur- this year. down. gent review to be carried out by A KCC report published last This resulted in carbon emis- County Hall during a full council week shows Maidstone County sions plummeting on KCC’s estate meeting five days ago. Hall has cut carbon emissions by from March to June, the biggest The Folkestone and Hythe mem- nearly 30% on its large land base drop in nearly two years, as more ber said: “KCC should do a over the last three years. people worked from home. screeching U-turn on its support Cllr Carey (pictured) said: “This Despite this, Cllr Carey told her for the carbon-guzzling, air-pollut- is really good news.” nine Conservative executive col- ing, habitat-destroying Lower KCC’s Conservative administra- leagues: “We are still on track, even Thames Crossing. tion has pledged to play an influ- bon will need to be cut in the next if it had not been for lockdown.” “We need to categorically op- ential role in reducing the county’s 10 years. Opposition councillors last week pose new and expanding airports carbon emissions to zero by 2050. However, concerns have been questioned the council’s aspira- everywhere, not just at Gatwick.” A more ambitious target has raised about how realistic the aspi- tions, given commitments to a se- KCC economic development di- been set to achieve net zero carbon rations are, given commitments to ries of large-scale air and road rector, David Smith, said plans on its own estate by 2030, which in- potentially air-polluting schemes, infrastructure projects. were underway to replace gas sys- cludes libraries and office build- such as a new Kent and Essex link They include the creation of sev- tems in houses by 2030, while the ings, although excludes schools. It via the Lower Thames Crossing eral Brexit lorry parks in Ashford, production of petrol and diesel ve- means about 28,000 tonnes of car- and the resumption of flights at Ebbsfleet, Thanet and Dover and hicles could also be banned. Union Street Beating loneliness during lockdown for surfacing INSPIRED Friendships, the be- UNION Street in Maidstone will friending service, has launched a close to resurface the entire road. telephone service to help combat The closure will take place on lockdown loneliness amongst older January 20 for three week nights, people in Kent. between 8pm and 6am, to allow A building company behind lux- for KCC Highways resurfacing ury retirement homes in Leeds vil- works between Wheeler Street lage says it recognised the need for and the A249 Sittingbourne Road. the helpline. The diversion for through traf- Led by “friendship managers” fic will be via Wheeler Street, Wendy Pfeiffer and Diane Bromley B2012 Holland Road, A249 Sit- (pictured), Inspired Friendships co- tingbourne Road and vice versa. ordinates a team of volunteers to If you live in the closed area of carry out vital work to ensure older Union Street, speak to an opera- people do not feel isolated during tive on site for help on getting in the third national lockdown. and out of your property. There will be street parking re- strictions at times. Job scheme boost for young in Kent Fence damage ABOUT 1,200 young people have County Council’s (KCC) Conser- Mrs James said: “The youths RESIDENTS in Leeds have been secured job placements across the vative cabinet was told that the are the ones that will be the hard- surprised to find a fence erected county, despite youth unemploy- number of youngsters claiming est hit, but there has been much to prevent walkers using a path ment being “hit hard” by the benefits rose to 14,450 in October, positive progress recently.” through woods has been partially coronavirus crisis. which marks around 10% of the In July, chancellor Rishi Sunak destroyed. Jo James, the chief executive of county’s youth population. unveiled a £2billion package to Villagers have been walking Kent Invicta Chamber of Com- This is more than double the boost the UK economy and pro- through private woodland for merce, said it was “tremendous” number of young people who tect youngsters missing out on decades but may have been shut that hundreds of 16- to 24-year- sought benefits when COVID-19 employment opportunities, such out by tenants of landowners, the olds have enrolled on the Gov- struck the UK in March 2020 Rochester Bridge Trust. ernment’s job creation scheme. (6,895). as school leavers and those who But before Christmas, wire cut- About 700 youngsters are ex- Fears have been expressed lost work in hospitality and retail. ters appear to have been used to pected to start work over the next about the “worsening” situation The Government’s “kickstart” snip through the wire fence. Since three to four weeks. The type of after November’s lockdown. scheme aims to subsidise people being fenced off the area near the jobs include marketing assistants Those concerns are rising now aged 16 to 25, who are at risk of playing field has been a target for and admin support workers. that the country has been plunged long-term unemployment, in six- repeated fly-tipping. The news comes after Kent into a third enforced shutdown. month work placements. 30 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Climate change goals ‘on track’ Eric and Lottie’s blue battle A KENT environment chief says climate change targets remain “on track”, despite concerns about MUCH is in the hands of the COVID-19 gods in 2021, but should the county council elections major road and airport plans for the county, writes Ciaran Duggan. proceed in May, an intriguing battleground has been drawn in the most unlikely setting. Cllr Susan Carey (Con), Kent Manston Airport in Thanet. the £8.2billion Lower Thames The staunchly Conservative butions to the community over so County Council’s (KCC) environ- Car and air travel ground to a Crossing, which would see 14 Maidstone rural south division many years.” ment cabinet member, said the halt when the Coronavirus pan- miles of tunnel roads linking will see a blue on blue fight like no In 2017, the Liberal Democrats amount of harmful greenhouse demic first struck the UK in March Gravesend to Thurrock in Essex. other before. Cllr Eric Hotson, fielded Derek Mortimer, a well-re- gases emitted from the authority’s and people were told to stay in KCC Green Party leader, Cllr (left), who was recently de- spected borough councillor, and estate have continued to reduce their homes during a national lock- Martin Whybrow, called for an ur- selected as candidate by the local polled just 14% of the vote. this year. down. gent review to be carried out by Tory association, will face Lottie But local observers speculate that A KCC report published last This resulted in carbon emis- County Hall during a full council Parfitt-Reid (right), a borough coun- if Labour and the Greens (9% and week shows Maidstone County sions plummeting on KCC’s estate meeting five days ago. cillor for Coxheath and Hunton. It 8% respectively) stepped aside, there Hall has cut carbon emissions by from March to June, the biggest The Folkestone and Hythe mem- will be a stiff task to remove Cllr could be enough votes to create an nearly 30% on its large land base drop in nearly two years, as more ber said: “KCC should do a Hotson, who has decades of experi- upset, should the blue vote split over the last three years. people worked from home. screeching U-turn on its support ence and a big personal following in down the middle. Cllr Carey (pictured) said: “This Despite this, Cllr Carey told her for the carbon-guzzling, air-pollut- the villages and parishes. Housing, infrastructure and the is really good news.” nine Conservative executive col- ing, habitat-destroying Lower With a 68% share of the vote in proposed chicken farm at Chain- KCC’s Conservative administra- leagues: “We are still on track, even Thames Crossing. 2017, Cllr Parfitt-Reid is undaunted hurst are likely to feature in the cam- tion has pledged to play an influ- bon will need to be cut in the next if it had not been for lockdown.” “We need to categorically op- but not unaware of the task ahead. paign. ential role in reducing the county’s 10 years. Opposition councillors last week pose new and expanding airports She said: ”I don't do dirty politics. With the latest lockdown, all the carbon emissions to zero by 2050. However, concerns have been questioned the council’s aspira- everywhere, not just at Gatwick.” There’ll be no mudslinging or per- with energy.” Chairman of Maidstone and The candidates fighting for places at bor- A more ambitious target has raised about how realistic the aspi- tions, given commitments to a se- KCC economic development di- sonal attacks from my side and I am Cllr Hotson said: “I have had a Weald Conservative Association, ough and county level will be faced been set to achieve net zero carbon rations are, given commitments to ries of large-scale air and road rector, David Smith, said plans sure that Eric will be the same. strong majority for 20 years and held Andrea Thorpe, said: “The panel of with being unable to campaign in on its own estate by 2030, which in- potentially air-polluting schemes, infrastructure projects. were underway to replace gas sys- “He has a wealth of experience. the seat with great support of many seven had to make difficult choices person or deliver leaflets until the cludes libraries and office build- such as a new Kent and Essex link They include the creation of sev- tems in houses by 2030, while the But I have a track record, too, and I residents and parishes in the area, on quality of interviews on the day. Government gives the all-clear to do ings, although excludes schools. It via the Lower Thames Crossing eral Brexit lorry parks in Ashford, production of petrol and diesel ve- am my own woman and I can fight which gives me a great deal of confi- I would like to thank Eric for his so. means about 28,000 tonnes of car- and the resumption of flights at Ebbsfleet, Thanet and Dover and hicles could also be banned. for the residents of the division dence I can do well.” massive and very significant contri- l See Comment, page 45 Union Street Beating loneliness during lockdown Bin days set Lounge gives NHS staff a break for surfacing INSPIRED Friendships, the be- to change as A NEW touring lounge to give NHS UNION Street in Maidstone will friending service, has launched a staff a break before, during and close to resurface the entire road. telephone service to help combat routes grow after their shifts made its first stop The closure will take place on lockdown loneliness amongst older at Maidstone Hospital last month. Cabin crew BE PREPARED for a change of January 20 for three week nights, people in Kent. The Project Wingman double- Lauren day for collection of household between 8pm and 6am, to allow A building company behind lux- decker, which is run by airline work- Weatherstone refuse. for KCC Highways resurfacing ury retirement homes in Leeds vil- ers, spent eight days outside the and Sam Contractors Biffa are working works between Wheeler Street lage says it recognised the need for Peggy Wood Breast Care Centre. Watson offer a on a complete re-route of waste and the A249 Sittingbourne Road. the helpline. The bus is staffed by local fur- warm welcome The diversion for through traf- Led by “friendship managers” and recycling collections now loughed and grounded cabin crew they have invested in 16 new ve- for NHS staff in fic will be via Wheeler Street, Wendy Pfeiffer and Diane Bromley volunteers and provides an informal the Project B2012 Holland Road, A249 Sit- (pictured), Inspired Friendships co- hicles, and they expect more effi- space outside the hospital for staff Wingman tingbourne Road and vice versa. ordinates a team of volunteers to cient and balanced rounds to be to enjoy a break from work and re- If you live in the closed area of carry out vital work to ensure older introduced in early summer. ceive food and refreshments. double decker Union Street, speak to an opera- people do not feel isolated during The current rounds were de- Project Wingman has launched a bus tive on site for help on getting in the third national lockdown. signed when Biffa’s council con- fundraising initiative to pay for the first-class lounges in mobile form. details and to make a donation, go and out of your property. tract started in 2013, and since acquisition, modifications and The Wingman Wheels Appeal to www.crowdfunder.co.uk/wing- There will be street parking re- then the number of properties branding needed to recreate the hopes to raise £100,000. For further manwheels. strictions at times. served has risen from 67,000 to 73,000 – an increase of 8.7%. Job scheme boost for young in Kent Biffa’s workload will continue Appeal after cabbie reports threats Fence damage ABOUT 1,200 young people have County Council’s (KCC) Conser- Mrs James said: “The youths to grow as the population in- RESIDENTS in Leeds have been secured job placements across the vative cabinet was told that the are the ones that will be the hard- creases, due to the council’s mas- A TAXI driver says he was threat- sive house-building programme ened by two men after a dispute surprised to find a fence erected county, despite youth unemploy- number of youngsters claiming est hit, but there has been much Police are outside a hotel in Lenham. to prevent walkers using a path ment being “hit hard” by the benefits rose to 14,450 in October, positive progress recently.” in the coming decade. In August 2019, Maidstone Bor- Police were called to the scene looking for through woods has been partially coronavirus crisis. which marks around 10% of the In July, chancellor Rishi Sunak destroyed. ough Council was forced to con- in Boughton Road at about 10pm these men Jo James, the chief executive of county’s youth population. unveiled a £2billion package to Villagers have been walking cede late collections and severe on September 27. after reports Kent Invicta Chamber of Com- This is more than double the boost the UK economy and pro- through private woodland for merce, said it was “tremendous” number of young people who disruption to services were The victim was reportedly ap- that a taxi tect youngsters missing out on decades but may have been shut that hundreds of 16- to 24-year- sought benefits when COVID-19 caused by their private contrac- proached by two men who were driver was employment opportunities, such out by tenants of landowners, the olds have enrolled on the Gov- struck the UK in March 2020 tor’s bin lorries breaking down carrying alcohol. threatened as school leavers and those who Rochester Bridge Trust. ernment’s job creation scheme. (6,895). Garden waste collections, a bin After being told they could not outside a hotel But before Christmas, wire cut- About 700 youngsters are ex- Fears have been expressed lost work in hospitality and retail. service now paid for by house- enter the vehicle with drinks, the ters appear to have been used to pected to start work over the next about the “worsening” situation The Government’s “kickstart” holders, continue to increase in suspects are alleged to have eral lines of enquiry and are now 01622 604100, quoting reference snip through the wire fence. Since three to four weeks. The type of after November’s lockdown. scheme aims to subsidise people popularity (up 15% in a year). shouted racial abuse at the victim able to issue images of two men 46/175578/20. You can also contact being fenced off the area near the jobs include marketing assistants Those concerns are rising now aged 16 to 25, who are at risk of These have already benefited and repeatedly kicked the car. who they would like to speak to. Crimestoppers anonymously on playing field has been a target for and admin support workers. that the country has been plunged long-term unemployment, in six- from new rounds affecting about Officers investigating the alle- Anyone with information is 0800 555111, or by using the on- repeated fly-tipping. The news comes after Kent into a third enforced shutdown. month work placements. 11,000 households. gations have been exploring sev- asked to contact Kent Police on line form.

31 News downsmail.co.uk Thief distracted staff before taking phone

A SERIAL thief has been jailed for four-and-a-half years after she stole jewellery and phones from victims across Kent. Lucretia Stanescu (29) stole vari- Berkshire three days later. Stanescu to 11 other theft offences ous items from shop workers in A Kent Police spokesman said: committed across Kent. Maidstone, Gillingham, Canter- “Stanescu used the same modus Senior investigating officer DS bury and Hoo. She also targeted operandi for much of her offend- Jay Robinson said: “Lucretia victims in Essex and Warwickshire. ing – she would attend a shop and Stanescu would cover the phones Stanescu was also given a life- distract staff by asking a series of with leaflets or her bag first and time order which instructs her to questions while discreetly stealing steal the phones as she picked up COVID claim pay back what she stole in full. valuable items. the item covering them. It was a The Chief Constable’s Crime “She was captured on CCTV on well-practised technique. in perfume Squad launched an investigation most occasions, including one inci- “Considering people store so into Stanescu after jewellery worth dent in Pudding Lane, Maidstone, much information on their phones, theft attempt £100,000 was stolen from a shop in which saw her take a mobile phone which is important to their lives, Tenterden High Street. from a shopworker’s desk while Stanescu’s deception would have A WOMAN who claimed to have She was captured on CCTV leav- they gathered leaflets for her.” been impactive on so many people COVID-19 is accused of 'cough- ing the scene in a red Peugeot, As a result of further enquiries, and we take a very dim view of her ing at staff' after attempting to which was stopped by police in detectives were able to connect actions.” steal perfume gift sets. It is reported that at around 4.35pm on December 21, 2020, a Van warning woman was stopped by a security Shoplifting alleged guard at Boots in King Street, DELIVERY drivers are being Maidstone. TWO suspected shoplifters have worth hundreds of pounds and warned about a spike in assaults The suspect is alleged to have been accused of threatening a se- items of designer clothing. Officers and van thefts. started swearing at the member of curity guard with a knife at a also seized some wire cutters. Since the beginning of Novem- staff before making claims she Maidstone supermarket. Mr Engman, of Brixton, was later ber 2020, there have been nine re- had COVID-19, and coughing in Eric Engman (27) and Youssef charged with theft, handling stolen ports of assaults on delivery the direction of his face. Amrani (27) allegedly stole high goods, assault, possession of a drivers or vans stolen across Kent. She then left the store empty value alcohol at Sainsbury’s in knife in a public place and using Businesses, partner agencies handed. Romney Place at about 9.35pm on threatening, abusive or insulting and hauliers are also being of- Officers have now released this December 16. words or behaviour. fered safety advice to pass on to picture image of a person they When challenged, a security Mr Amrani, of no fixed address, their drivers. would like to identify, and who guard was reportedly assaulted, was charged with theft, handling Superintendent Pete Steenhuis they believe may hold important and threats were made by a man stolen goods and possessing an ar- from Kent Police said: “Criminals information. with a blade. ticle for use in the course of theft. are willing to be violent to get If you can help the investiga- Officers arrested the two men at Mr Engman was bailed to ap- their hands on vans and parcels tion, please call Kent Police on Maidstone East train station, and pear at Maidstone Magistrates’ and we would ask everyone to be 01622 604100, quoting reference they were taken into custody. Court on February 22 and Mr Am- vigilant. 46/224799/20. You can also contact Items believed to be stolen from rani was remanded in custody to ”Drivers should take all the Kent Crimestoppers anony- the supermarket, as well as other appear before Medway Magis- necessary steps to secure their ve- mously on 0800 555111 or use the town centre shops, were recovered. trates’ Court on Friday, December hicles and report anything suspi- online form. These included bottles of spirits 18. cious to us straight away.”

Crime reports A HOUSE in North Street, Barming was broken into. Branches were cut from a tree in Ton- Neighbourhood Watch bridge Road, . A tailgate was stolen from a Mitsubishi Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police L200 in Heath Road, Boughton Monchelsea. Two Christmas trees were stolen from An entrance gate was torn off its hinges A Peugeot Kisbee 50 moped, registra- outside a shop at a service station in Heath in Weld Close, Staplehurst. tion GL19 ***, was stolen in Forest Hill, Road, Boughton Monchelsea. A large A shed was broken into in Station Road, Tovil. wreath was also stolen from outside the Staplehurst. A driver filled up a vehicle with fuel and shop a week later. A Vauxhall Movano 3500 CDTI LWB then left without paying in St Saviour’s Fence panels were sprayed with graffiti was damaged on the forecourt of a filling Road, Park Wood. in Ashford Road, Bearsted. station in Maidstone Road, Sutton Va- A Christmas tree was stolen in Gravelly Somebody cut the side of a trailer in lence. Bottom Road, Broomfield. A witness saw Dickley Lane, Lenham. Somebody stole a Royal Mail post box in the tree being loaded onto the back of a Trees were cut down in a nature reserve Headcorn Road, Sutton Valence. trailer. in Chatham Road, , without con- A house was broken into in Tumblers A wing mirror was stolen from a vehi- sent. Hill, Sutton Valence. cle in Hollingworth Road, Park Wood. 32 News downsmail.co.uk Thief distracted staff Call for the before taking phone A SERIAL thief has been jailed for four-and-a-half years after she stole INTERIOR DECOR jewellery and phones from victims across Kent. Lucretia Stanescu (29) stole vari- Berkshire three days later. Stanescu to 11 other theft offences Furniture recovered; Tailormade loose covers, ous items from shop workers in A Kent Police spokesman said: committed across Kent. Maidstone, Gillingham, Canter- “Stanescu used the same modus Senior investigating officer DS Replacement cushion interior service, bury and Hoo. She also targeted operandi for much of her offend- Jay Robinson said: “Lucretia Handmade Curtains and blinds supplied and fitted. victims in Essex and Warwickshire. ing – she would attend a shop and Stanescu would cover the phones Stanescu was also given a life- distract staff by asking a series of with leaflets or her bag first and Local reliable highly recommended service. time order which instructs her to questions while discreetly stealing steal the phones as she picked up COVID claim pay back what she stole in full. valuable items. the item covering them. It was a City and Guilds Qualified over with 40 years experience The Chief Constable’s Crime “She was captured on CCTV on well-practised technique. in perfume Squad launched an investigation most occasions, including one inci- “Considering people store so GUTTER, FASCIA, SOFFIT CLEANING & CLEARING into Stanescu after jewellery worth dent in Pudding Lane, Maidstone, much information on their phones, theft attempt £100,000 was stolen from a shop in which saw her take a mobile phone which is important to their lives, All cleaning is carried out by hand ensuring a Tenterden High Street. from a shopworker’s desk while Stanescu’s deception would have A WOMAN who claimed to have thorough shining result. She was captured on CCTV leav- they gathered leaflets for her.” been impactive on so many people COVID-19 is accused of 'cough- ing the scene in a red Peugeot, As a result of further enquiries, and we take a very dim view of her ing at staff' after attempting to ARE YOUR GUTTERS READY FOR THE which was stopped by police in detectives were able to connect actions.” steal perfume gift sets. COMING WET WINTER MONTHS? It is reported that at around 4.35pm on December 21, 2020, a Van warning Are you aware of a leaking or dripping woman was stopped by a security Shoplifting alleged section of gutter? Now is the time to fix it!! guard at Boots in King Street, DELIVERY drivers are being Maidstone. TWO suspected shoplifters have worth hundreds of pounds and warned about a spike in assaults For a free quotation call David on The suspect is alleged to have been accused of threatening a se- items of designer clothing. Officers and van thefts. started swearing at the member of curity guard with a knife at a also seized some wire cutters. Since the beginning of Novem- T: 01732 871042 staff before making claims she Maidstone supermarket. Mr Engman, of Brixton, was later ber 2020, there have been nine re- 07784608941 had COVID-19, and coughing in Eric Engman (27) and Youssef charged with theft, handling stolen ports of assaults on delivery the direction of his face. Amrani (27) allegedly stole high goods, assault, possession of a drivers or vans stolen across Kent. Public Liability Insurance E: [email protected] She then left the store empty value alcohol at Sainsbury’s in knife in a public place and using Businesses, partner agencies handed. Romney Place at about 9.35pm on threatening, abusive or insulting and hauliers are also being of- Officers have now released this December 16. words or behaviour. fered safety advice to pass on to picture image of a person they When challenged, a security Mr Amrani, of no fixed address, their drivers. would like to identify, and who guard was reportedly assaulted, was charged with theft, handling Superintendent Pete Steenhuis 21 Yeomans Way, Pilgrims Retreat, Harrietsham, ME17 1FW they believe may hold important and threats were made by a man stolen goods and possessing an ar- from Kent Police said: “Criminals information. with a blade. ticle for use in the course of theft. are willing to be violent to get If you can help the investiga- Officers arrested the two men at Mr Engman was bailed to ap- their hands on vans and parcels 21 Yeomans Way, Pilgrims Retreat, Harrietsham, ME17 1FW     21 Yeomans Way, Pilgrims Retreat, Harrietsham, ME17 1FW tion, please call Kent Police on Maidstone East train station, and pear at Maidstone Magistrates’ and we would ask everyone to be 01622 604100, quoting reference they were taken into custody. Court on February 22 and Mr Am- vigilant. The Old Service Station , Heath Road 46/224799/20. You can also contact Items believed to be stolen from rani was remanded in custody to ”Drivers should take all the Boughton Monchelsea, ME17 4JD Kent Crimestoppers anony- the supermarket, as well as other appear before Medway Magis- necessary steps to secure their ve- Mobile: 07734262570 mously on 0800 555111 or use the town centre shops, were recovered. trates’ Court on Friday, December hicles and report anything suspi- Tel: 01622 910039 online form. These included bottles of spirits 18. cious to us straight away.” Freephone: 0800 0141436 www.arrangingflowers.co.uk

Crime reports A HOUSE in North Street, Barming was broken into. emma@arrangingflowers.co.uk Branches were cut from a tree in Ton- Neighbourhood Watch bridge Road, Teston. Flowers A tailgate was stolen from a Mitsubishi Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police L200 in Heath Road, Boughton Gifts Monchelsea. Funeral Tributes All aspectsAll aspects of ofbespoke bespoke carpentrycarpentry from from Two Christmas trees were stolen from An entrance gate was torn off its hinges A Peugeot Kisbee 50 moped, registra- design to completion. outside a shop at a service station in Heath in Weld Close, Staplehurst. tion GL19 ***, was stolen in Forest Hill, Plants design to completion. Road, Boughton Monchelsea. A large A shed was broken into in Station Road, Tovil. Valentines Bouquets All aspectsŔ 8BSESPCFT ofDVQCPBSET bespokeSBEJBUPS carpentryDPWFST from wreath was also stolen from outside the Staplehurst. A driver filled up a vehicle with fuel and Ŕ 8BSESPCFT Ŕ *OTUBMMBUJPODVQCPBSETPGCBUISPPNTSBEJBUPSLJUDIFOTDPWFSTJODMVEJOHUJMJOH shop a week later. A Vauxhall Movano 3500 CDTI LWB then left without paying in St Saviour’s designŔ *OTUBMMBUJPO to completion.PGCBUISPPNTLJUDIFOTJODMVEJOHUJMJOH Fence panels were sprayed with graffiti was damaged on the forecourt of a filling Road, Park Wood. All available for local delivery  in Ashford Road, Bearsted. station in Maidstone Road, Sutton Va- A Christmas tree was stolen in Gravelly Ŕ 8BSESPCFT For free adviceDVQCPBSET call GrahamSBEJBUPS on DPWFST Somebody cut the side of a trailer in lence. Bottom Road, Broomfield. A witness saw         Ŕ *OTUBMMBUJPO01622 437PGCBUISPPNT 372 | 07779LJUDIFOT 029 695JODMVEJOHUJMJOH Dickley Lane, Lenham. Somebody stole a Royal Mail post box in the tree being loaded onto the back of a For free advice call Graham on Trees were cut down in a nature reserve Headcorn Road, Sutton Valence. trailer. in Chatham Road, Boxley, without con- A house was broken into in Tumblers A wing mirror was stolen from a vehi- 01622 437 372 | 07779 029 695 sent. Hill, Sutton Valence. cle in Hollingworth Road, Park Wood. For free advice call Graham on 01622 437 372 | 07779 029 695 33 News downsmail.co.uk House prices surge as priorities change

HOUSE prices rose significantly £200,000 above the guide price, in the final part of 2020 – despite which was pretty amazing.” surging COVID-19 cases and un- According to The Land Registry, Smokey farewell certainty about the economy. the average price of properties in THE staff at are mourn- Lockdown and stamp duty Maidstone in the last 10 years has ing the death of one of their breaks have led many people risen by £92,462. favourite animals at the working across Kent to up sticks, as well as For instance, in August 2020 a farm. attracting Londoners looking to two-bedroom house in Maidstone Smokey the ferret, who was move to the countryside. was worth on average around aged two, died over Christmas James Emson, of Clive Emson £258,595. By December, that price after a short illness. Vets found he Auctioneers, says summer sales had increased to £292,777, accord- was suffering from cancer and he were due to a “backlog of potential ing to a survey of estate agents. was put to sleep. sellers and buyers” after the pan- Head of residential sales at Sib- Kent Life staff, who doted on demic halted most deals. ley Pares Chris Wallington says the Smokey, have given him a grave Mr Emson said: “People still market has remained “incredibly with a headstone. need somewhere to live. There has But the auctioneer worries that buoyant” and sales have been They took him under their wing been a lot of planning happening Kent’s high COVID-19 levels may achieved thanks to “unforeseen when he was rejected as a kit by in the Maidstone area, with a lot of be stopping people putting their positives” like the stamp duty hol- the other ferrets, gave him his own new builds and people moving to houses on the market because of iday. cage and lavished love on him. Kent from London. the risk of infection. Brian Pitzey, of The Homes One upset staffer said: “He was “I think people have had time to He said: “Maidstone has always Group, said: “As many people and such a little darling and so affec- reconsider their life choices and had a strong market and I see no companies have adapted to work- tionate. Like all ferrets, he slept a reason why that will change any ing online or at home, wanting a lot, but we spoilt him rotten and with more people working from time soon. We recently saw a prop- home five minutes from a station is he always seemed so happy.” home, they are looking for a prop- erty with more outdoor space.” erty in College Road go for not as important as it once was.”

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34 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk

Jane Hughes days before Christmas. We extend our Eddie later met and Obituaries sincere condolences to Petrov’s family and married Annette, THE death of artist and art teacher Jane his partner.” known as De, and House prices surge Hughes (89) was featured in the national they shared 19 very press. happy years together, Jane’s dedication to art and crafts began Bernard Mee with an extended as a child, when she THE death has been announced of family of four more was frequently ill sons and a daughter, with asthma as a Bernard Mee of Church Lane, Bearsted. as priorities change Bernard was an accountant who was Andrew, Phillip, result of pollution in Sean, Anthony and Nottingham where also listed as a payroll consultant in the HOUSE prices rose significantly £200,000 above the guide price, Michelle. Eddie had her family lived in Handbook of the in the final part of 2020 – despite which was pretty amazing.” Rotary Club. recently recovered from heart surgery, but the 1930s. was taken gravely ill. surging COVID-19 cases and un- According to The Land Registry, Originally from He served his local Smokey farewell certainty about the economy. the average price of properties in branch of the Rotary De said:“Eddie was a quietly-spoken Kent, Jane always man, respected and admired for his vast THE staff at Kent Life are mourn- Lockdown and stamp duty Maidstone in the last 10 years has Club as honorary retained a love of the practical abilities. He excelled wherever ing the death of one of their breaks have led many people risen by £92,462. treasurer and was countryside, precision was involved. favourite animals at the working across Kent to up sticks, as well as For instance, in August 2020 a also an active something that was “He was kind and generous, always farm. two-bedroom house in Maidstone member of Bearsted attracting Londoners looking to fuelled by wartime evacuation to live with ready to help anywhere needed. He’ll also Smokey the ferret, who was Golf Club. move to the countryside. was worth on average around an aunt in Sutherland in north-west be remembered as a keen member of The aged two, died over Christmas James Emson, of Clive Emson £258,595. By December, that price Scotland. Bernard was also a bell-ringer at the Kent Model Boat Team, where his after a short illness. Vets found he Auctioneers, says summer sales had increased to £292,777, accord- In her teaching career she returned to beautiful radio-controlled boats were was suffering from cancer and he were due to a “backlog of potential ing to a survey of estate agents. Kent and worked for a while in church near his home, Holy Cross in Bearsted. much admired. Eddie built his boats often was put to sleep. sellers and buyers” after the pan- Head of residential sales at Sib- Goudhurst, before moving to Bath with just from pictures and then researched Kent Life staff, who doted on demic halted most deals. ley Pares Chris Wallington says the her husband Ken. them to get them just perfect.” Smokey, have given him a grave Mr Emson said: “People still market has remained “incredibly Ken – who she married in 1954 – died a Emmaline Booker Eddie leaves his wife, seven children, with a headstone. need somewhere to live. There has But the auctioneer worries that buoyant” and sales have been few days after his wife. their partners, 12 grandchildren and two They took him under their wing been a lot of planning happening Kent’s high COVID-19 levels may achieved thanks to “unforeseen Jane leaves her children Timothy, EMMALINE Booker (105) was a resident great-grandsons. when he was rejected as a kit by in the Maidstone area, with a lot of be stopping people putting their positives” like the stamp duty hol- Edward and Emma, and four of the Ashley Gardens Care Home, Sutton the other ferrets, gave him his own new builds and people moving to houses on the market because of iday. grandchildren, Tom, Peter, Oscar and Lily. Road. cage and lavished love on him. She was recently the subject of a Downs Kent from London. the risk of infection. Brian Pitzey, of The Homes Kevin Geary One upset staffer said: “He was Mail story concerning her birthday “I think people have had time to He said: “Maidstone has always Group, said: “As many people and such a little darling and so affec- celebrations which involved a tea party, KEVIN Geary (66), from Rochester, was a reconsider their life choices and had a strong market and I see no companies have adapted to work- Petar Petrov hairdo and online contact with her family. widely-known and admired sports tionate. Like all ferrets, he slept a reason why that will change any ing online or at home, wanting a MAIDSTONE’S Petar Petrov (32) worked lot, but we spoilt him rotten and with more people working from Emmaline – known to many as “Nanny” reporter with 32 years of service to the home, they are looking for a prop- time soon. We recently saw a prop- home five minutes from a station is for for Amazon as a delivery driver. BBC. he always seemed so happy.” erty in College Road go for He died as a result of an accident on the – was married to Albert from 1934 to 2010 erty with more outdoor space.” not as important as it once was.” and a mother of six. He had travelled the world reporting on M20 as he returned home after completing major events before leaving the BBC in his shift on December She lived in the local area her whole life and worked at different times at Timothy 2011, and had also 8. worked for Sky. Many of his Whites and Kimberley Clarke. He had also colleagues paid reported on local tribute to him, and a Eddie Potter events, and was well- Gofundme page was connected with set up, with the EDWIN “Eddie” Potter (83) was born in competitors, proceeds going to Cliffe and lived in Larkfield for over 40 organisations and Petar's partner Mirela years. local fans. Nikolova. Following his apprenticeship at Kevin’s son Paddy, The page was set Chatham Dockyard, Eddie worked at also a sports reporter up by Desislava Rootes Maidstone, Short Brothers, Blaw with the BBC, issued Anadolova, who said: “Petar did not have Knox and Caradon Celuform, where he a tribute saying: “Dad was always proud p26 the opportunity of saying goodbye to his was employed as a quality systems of working for the BBC and made a great family and loved ones. manager. many friends there. He was amazing and "This event is leaving us overwhelmed Eddie had a long and happy first we will miss him terribly, but we all have in shock and disbelief. No mother should marriage to Pearl, who died in 1999. They so many brilliant memories of him.” ever be receiving such news, especially had two sons, Mark and Darran. Kevin leaves his wife, Nicola Jordan, a respected figure in Kent journalism, their children Paddy, Jack and Jessica, and three grandchildren.

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died. It was agreed to co-opt Katherine Fitzgerald Close. An airman was Broomfield and Kingswood Parish Councils Ross onto the parish council. suggested because Sgt Fitzgerald had Lenham Road Residents on the Lenham Litter competition The Rev Mark Pavey served in the RAF. Road will have superfast broadband in and Graffiti Kings (who did the mural on Bus shelter Regarding the proposal from the new year. The 30mph speed limit will the house on the corner of Whitehall Sainsbury’s to replace the parish council- also be installed between the Sports Field Drive) had both agreed to be judges. owned bus shelter on the eastern side of and just beyond Wents Garage and down Station Road, it was noted that the Ulcombe Hill. supermarket had suggested a Budget consultation Just under 2,500 Marden specification which matched that of the responses had been received, exceeding Crime report Four crimes had been bus shelter on the opposite side of Station the 1,300 received last year. Difficult Road, which is owned by Maidstone decisions would have to be made. reported: one case of criminal damage; one theft from a vehicle; one theft and Borough Council. It was agreed that it Dog mess Cllr Davies said this had been would make sense for both the bus a problem in the sports field for many one case of interference with a vehicle. Five reports of antisocial behaviour had shelters to have the same owners and to years. Only parts of the field, ie the propose that MBC take on responsibility current and former play areas, were been received. The community policing team had been tasked to the area and an for the new shelter. It was further agreed included in the public spaces protection to ask that the shelter be equipped with order. The parish council could put in antisocial behaviour car had been in the village most evenings and this would side panels to offer protection from the place their own order covering the rest of weather. the field, but the problem would be continue throughout November. A local person had been arrested following an Wimpey Field After some discussion, it enforcement. It was agreed the clerk was agreed to leave the benches in situ assault in the village. should advertise the details of the waste and do as much as possible to secure Community Payback The team was crime team officer in the Parish News them. interested in coming to Marden to help and on the website. CCTV The recorder at Surrenden Field with work around the village. A list of Pre-school Members considered the needed to be replaced. The expenditure possible things to be undertaken was request from the Kingswood Pre-school of £379.80, plus VAT, was agreed. currently being put together. Committee and staff for a contribution Signs MBC had quoted a price of £961.25 Allotments An email from Redrow had toward the annual rent for the village to provide and install four signs at been circulated to members. Members hall. It was agreed to contribute half of Ashdown’s Walk and Doutrepont’s Walk reiterated that the car parking should not the cost (£3,300) out of parish council (higher than the initial estimate of £600). be taken on and to respond to this effect grants. The acting clerk had sought an to Redrow. Councillors asked the clerk to Audit Cllr Pattison agreed to undertake a explanation. update the Allotment Association half-year internal audit and it was noted Chestnut Avenue BT Openreach wished accordingly. that this would need to take place once to lay a duct under parish council-owned CCTV The clerk had spoken to the people are able to meet indoors. land between High Street and Chestnut Golding Homes Officer about the Community building The quote from Avenue and would make good any installation of a CCTV camera on one of Cotaplan for a community building and damage. The request was agreed. their properties overlooking the playing food outlet in the sports field was noted New clerk The acting clerk welcomed field. Golding Homes had agreed in and it was agreed that Cllrs Pink, Alison Smith as the new parish clerk and principle, but the parish council would Pattison and Davies would jointly lead thanked councillors and the parish office need to look into installing a separate on this project. The clerk would chase team for their support over the years. meter/electricity supply. Cllr Barker Kingswell Buildings and ARCK and Cllr Community Payback Cllr Spearink asked if solar power could be used and Pink would contact the university and reported that in recent weeks there had the clerk would speak with the ask them to come out and look at the been fewer members in the visiting contractor. grounds. Community Payback teams, which he Fees The clerk requested that members CCTV Councillors were updated on the had taken up with the central office. For consider keeping the fees the same for advice received from Maidstone Borough the latest visit, the numbers had returned the cemetery, play scheme and open Council’s tree officer, namely that there is to the normal level. spaces. This was agreed. no law against digging a trench to bring Workshop facility Cllr Spearink said services into the field, providing there are Access road The clerk reported to the work on setting up and fitting out the no protected trees in the way. Cllr Pink meeting that contact had been made with workshop had been completed. was asked to get final costs for bringing Maidstone Borough Council enforcement Expenditure had amounted to £423. the services in. team regarding the new access road Chairman’s report The chairman Handyman The handyman had replaced between South Road and Russet Grove. welcomed clerk Alison Smith and a missing bolt on the junior multi-play, Following receipt of photographs from thanked the retiring clerk Mick and the steering wheel and dashboard on Cllr Newton, this was now being Westwood. The chairman had written to the fun buggy. He was still waiting for investigated and contact would be made MP Helen Grant about the Planning replacement seats for the cracked toddler with the developers. White Paper and the Local Plan and he swing and the de-laminating rubber was seeking a meeting with her about matting under the roundabout was being drainage issues at Hen & Duckhurst monitored. Staplehurst Farm. Fencing Another quote had been sought Jubilee Playing Field The acting clerk Surrenden Playing Field The community for 70m of fencing at the Sports Field, had received a draft updated enhancement group was looking into rather than 140m. A further quote is still maintenance agreement from the laying a new path, replacing the pavilion needed. It was noted that the work could solicitors, who would need to do some and installing adult gym equipment. not reasonably take place until the spring additional work to conclude the COVID-19 help team Cllr Castro said the – the handyman would make good the agreement. It was agreed to increase the team had contacted 64 residents who had broken fencing in the meantime. budget from £500 to £750. received a number of support Crime figures In October, there had been Tree inspection It was agreed to spend interventions during the first lockdown. two non-residential burglaries, two £300 on a walk-over tree survey by an Thirty residents needed help this time assaults and two cases of vandalism. arboricultural consultant. and they had been individually matched Resignation Cllr Hoy’s resignation was Remembrance It was agreed to support a with a like number of volunteers. The accepted and it was noted with sincere request for a “Lest we Forget” figure next main area of need was for collection of regret that Cllr Hoy had subsequently to the commemorative bench in prescriptions.

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At Mid Kent College 41 People are at the heart of everything we do That's why we're looking to add to our team of expert teaching sta , who will help us develop and deliver programmes to prepare our students to thrive in their careers. If you're an experienced Lecturer, Assessor or Industry Specialist, providing you hold at least a Level 3 qualication in your chosen profession and share our passion for learning, then we'd like to talk to you about our full and part time opportunities in :-

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42 43 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Doctors opt for part-time roles MORE than half of general practitioners (GPs) employed across 200 surgeries in Kent are working part-time, writes Ciaran Duggan. A total of 1,308 GPs are currently CCG’s governing body, said: “The registered in the 13 districts, but problem seems to be that we have only 47% are full-time staff, ac- more GPs who are working part- cording to the latest NHS data. time, and that doesn’t look like an GP Dr Simon Dunn said more ageing phenomenon. trainees are seeking a “portfolio ca- “It seems a pity if increased re- reer” and have taken more interest cruitment is being entirely wasted in other health fields such as by people deciding not to work medicine, outside their surgery full-time.” work. In response, Herne Bay GP Dr Last month, Dr Dunn told a vir- Dunn described the situation as tual panel of primary care health “complex”, and said efforts were officials who sit on the Kent and being made to attract more health Medway Clinical Commissioning staff. For instance, more training Group (CCG): “The GP who is schemes have been rolled out this there seven days a week and 365 However, there has been a pared to 47% now. year. days a year has long gone.” downturn in registered full-time But it has emerged that the total About 108 university students GPs are often the first point of Kent GP staff over the last three number of county GPs, which in- have embarked on a six-week contact for anyone with a physical years. cludes full-time and part-time staff, placement course at GP surgeries or mental health problem. They A CCG report says that only 25% has risen by 300 over the last 40 through Canterbury’s Kent and treat all common medical condi- of the total workforce of about months, which has been described Medway School, which opened in tions and refer patients to hospi- 1,000 Kent GPs in September 2017 as a “healthy increase”. September to address the “chronic tals. were employed part-time, com- Dr Mike Beckett, who sits on the shortage” of GPs in the region. Call to take Hospice campaign will get you fit more notice HEART of Kent Hospice has you avoid the all-too-common launched a new fitness challenge strong start followed by a drop in for the new year. commitment. of patients Jan-U-Fit aims to motivate peo- “Your personal fitness goal will be A REPORT before the Kent and ple to keep their new year’s resolu- even more of a success having Medway CCG highlights the tions to stay healthy in 2021. raised money to support those that need for it to be more aware of To be a 2021 Jan-U-Fitter you need the care of the Hospice in patient experiences and ac- simply need to set your goal, by your local community. So, take the knowledges currently there is no sharing the distance and the activ- plunge and stick to your 2021 effective framework. ity you plan to do to achieve it. health resolution by signing up to It states: “At times, there has For every fitness goal you reach, Jan-U-Fit.” been a reactive approach to con- £50 of sponsorship will be donated Once you pick your sport and de- cerns.” to the hospice, whose chief execu- fundraiser for Heart of Kent Hos- termine your distance, sign up for Reporting should include “soft tive is Sarah Pugh, pictured. pice said: “Pledging your support to free at www.hokh.org/support- intelligence” at a local level to sit This year marks the hospice’s us and supporting a local cause, will us/events/jan-u-fit/ or contact the alongside available data. 30th anniversary, which will be cel- give you a clear goal to work to- Hospice fundraising team by calling The intelligence would inform ebrated throughout the year. wards as you start your health kick. 01622 790195 or emailing teams of variabilities around pa- Emma Greenwood, community “The added motivation will help [email protected]. tient experiences and also about accessibility, utilisation of out- of-hours services and patient Medical tenant feedback. More staff for GP surgeries A LARGE building on the Kent The report sees a need to in- THE staffing tide for GP practices across Maidstone and rest of Kent Medical Campus in Maidstone has corporate information about GP seems to be improving, according to budget-holding Kent and Med- signed up its first tenant. patient surveys, friends-and- way NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The “innovation centre” will be family surveys, complaints and It reports positive changes for the seven months up to September , the home to a health strategy con- views of Patient Participation with a slowing down in the number of GPs leaving. An additional 15 sultancy specialising in data-led Groups and Healthwatch. full-time equivalents (as opposed to head counts) were projects. CCG governing body mem- appointed,compared with losses in the GP workforce in 2018 and 2019. The new building, majority bers considered comments that There was also an increase of 30 full-time equivalent practice nurses funded by European development there was a need to ensure en- and 34 advanced nurse practitioners. money, will have space for small- gagement with younger people On top of that, there were 115 additional roles providing direct pa- and those of working age. tient contact to support general practice, including paramedics, phar- and medium-sized enterprises. They also heard of the key im- macists, social prescribers, health care assistants and physiotherapists. The centre will be neighbour to a portance of accessibility to a GP The CCG says the training hub is working to increase roles sup- new stepdown recovery facility, and effort expanded to reach that porting GP workload, such as advanced clinical practitioners, with KIMS Hospital, two schools and a point (for example, numerous places allocated to areas of greatest need. mental hospital which treats crim- phone calls). inals. 44 News | Health downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Doctors opt for part-time roles Postal votes could be decider Comment MORE than half of general practitioners (GPs) employed across 200 surgeries in Kent are WITH May’s crunch borough council while, lately, the council’s unelected elections less than four months away, the officers have been suggesting seriously working part-time, writes Ciaran Duggan. authority is making arrangements to SimonSays stepping back to allow social housing ensure democracy is COVID-19 safe. partner Homes England to take the lead, A total of 1,308 GPs are currently CCG’s governing body, said: “The SIMON FINLAY Editor Should they go ahead, and that is not a thus minimising MBC’s financial risk. registered in the 13 districts, but problem seems to be that we have simon.fi[email protected] given, a large chunk of the ballots cast At least £300,000 of tax-payers’ money only 47% are full-time staff, ac- more GPs who are working part- will be through the post. Twitter @Simonfinlay6500 has been spent so far. cording to the latest NHS data. time, and that doesn’t look like an It is likely to be the first major test of The council, sensibly perhaps, no GP Dr Simon Dunn said more ageing phenomenon. they have and take their targets. In Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) since longer wants that commitment set trainees are seeking a “portfolio ca- “It seems a pity if increased re- normal circumstances, they would be it emerged as a “master developer” of against a background of cuts caused by reer” and have taken more interest cruitment is being entirely wasted favourites to get in. the controversial 4,000-home Lenham COVID-19, which has decimated its easy- in other health fields such as by people deciding not to work But if there is a long, disruptive post- Heath scheme and in the wake of its picking revenues, such as parking medicine, outside their surgery full-time.” Brexit period bringing chaos to local plans to shut The Hazlitt Theatre, which charges. What is harder to square with work. In response, Herne Bay GP Dr roads or if the Government messes up caused such a furore late last year. tax-payers is their money being spent on Last month, Dr Dunn told a vir- Dunn described the situation as again over COVID-19, the national When the Liberal Democrats returned capital projects – Lockmeadow leisure tual panel of primary care health “complex”, and said efforts were picture might impinge on the to power in 2019 with the help of the centre (£19.1m), commercially-rented flats officials who sit on the Kent and being made to attract more health Conservatives’ chances closer to the Labour Party and a few independents, (£5m), 16 industrial units at Park Wood Medway Clinical Commissioning staff. For instance, more training polls. the Tories were numerically superior but (£1.9m) and Lenham Heath’s budget Group (CCG): “The GP who is schemes have been rolled out this short of forming an administration. (£1.5m). there seven days a week and 365 However, there has been a pared to 47% now. year. It’s hard to chase Since then, the dynamic has shifted in Instead, the MBC’s leadership now days a year has long gone.” downturn in registered full-time But it has emerged that the total About 108 university students favour of the Liberal Democrats, their faces the looming reality of finding £2m GPs are often the first point of Kent GP staff over the last three number of county GPs, which in- have embarked on a six-week trouble when it’s leader Cllr Martin Cox, and his in projected lost revenues through cuts contact for anyone with a physical years. cludes full-time and part-time staff, placement course at GP surgeries independent deputy Cllr Fay Gooch. (such as The Hazlitt Theatre’s or mental health problem. They A CCG report says that only 25% has risen by 300 over the last 40 through Canterbury’s Kent and chasing you... The Tories have suffered the untimely controversial closure) and a 2% rise in treat all common medical condi- of the total workforce of about months, which has been described Medway School, which opened in death of Cllr Wendy Hinder and the council tax. With another lengthy tions and refer patients to hospi- 1,000 Kent GPs in September 2017 as a “healthy increase”. September to address the “chronic lockdown, things will only get worse. tals. were employed part-time, com- Dr Mike Beckett, who sits on the shortage” of GPs in the region. resignation of Cllr Steve McLoughlin, as well as the defection to the Lib Dems of “National polling has tightened Like many others, there is trouble up Nick de Wiggondene-Sheppard. significantly against the Tories after the ahead for this council and it’s hard to The latter will not stand again (the election of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer chase trouble when it’s chasing you. Call to take Tories are unlikely to lose Detling and although, at the time of writing, the It will be up to the Tories to figure out Hospice campaign will get you fit Thurnham) and Mrs Hinder’s fellow Tories are ahead (but not by much),” a way to best pin the blame on the councillor husband, Bob, has also which may comfort the associations. leadership without it appearing like HEART of Kent Hospice has you avoid the all-too-common more notice indicated he is moving away. But the local Lib Dems fear they will be naked party politicking or brinkmanship. launched a new fitness challenge strong start followed by a drop in Cllr Jonathan Purle has decided to step blamed for implementing the All the parties are likely to be for the new year. commitment. of patients down because of work commitments, Government-imposed housing targets. hamstrung by restrictions regarding Jan-U-Fit aims to motivate peo- “Your personal fitness goal will be making the Tories two candidates light This would indeed be unfair, but for their campaigning. For now, leafleting, A REPORT before the Kent and ple to keep their new year’s resolu- even more of a success having in the Bridge ward they have to take. inextricable link to Lenham Heath. canvassing, street stalls, hustings and Medway CCG highlights the tions to stay healthy in 2021. raised money to support those that However, Cllrs Tom and Janetta Sams, The plot for (initially 5,000) houses debates are out of the question. need for it to be more aware of To be a 2021 Jan-U-Fitter you need the care of the Hospice in the fiercely independent members started out as a grand concept with the No one can moan about anything if we, simply need to set your goal, by your local community. So, take the patient experiences and ac- covering under-threat Lenham Heath, borough council’s leadership at its head, the voters, don’t vote for the people we sharing the distance and the activ- plunge and stick to your 2021 knowledges currently there is no will almost certainly sit on their hands but has been dogged by controversy, not believe will do the best job for our ity you plan to do to achieve it. health resolution by signing up to effective framework. come May, depriving the Lib Dems of least the lack of agreement (so far) from communities and the wider borough. For every fitness goal you reach, Jan-U-Fit.” It states: “At times, there has two votes they will probably need to principal landowners and a scaling back And it is a fair bet that, should the £50 of sponsorship will be donated Once you pick your sport and de- been a reactive approach to con- gain another term. of original plans. Seductive promises of a election go ahead, it will be won in the to the hospice, whose chief execu- fundraiser for Heart of Kent Hos- termine your distance, sign up for cerns.” Conversely, to form an administration, high-speed rail-link station, school and postal ballot. So, while you’ve got a bit of tive is Sarah Pugh, pictured. pice said: “Pledging your support to free at www.hokh.org/support- Reporting should include “soft the Tories will have to secure the seats the rest evaporated like summer mist time on your hands… intelligence” at a local level to sit This year marks the hospice’s us and supporting a local cause, will us/events/jan-u-fit/ or contact the alongside available data. 30th anniversary, which will be cel- give you a clear goal to work to- Hospice fundraising team by calling More affordable housing developments in areas greater than 0.5 Care partnership vital The intelligence would inform ebrated throughout the year. wards as you start your health kick. 01622 790195 or emailing hectares but for fewer than 10 houses teams of variabilities around pa- Emma Greenwood, community “The added motivation will help [email protected]. THE article in your December issue by might not have to include affordable WE MUST be concerned about the lack of tient experiences and also about Richard Knox-Johnston was a succinct homes, although my interpretation may be Maidstone and Malling NHS input in to accessibility, utilisation of out- exposé of the inadequate thought that had incorrect. the new budget-holding Kent and gone into the formulation of the current Medway Clinical Commissioning Group of-hours services and patient Medical tenant I remain extremely disappointed that housing policies, and the failure of our (Downs Mail, December). feedback. More staff for GP surgeries the MPs did not seem willing to pursue a A LARGE building on the Kent local politicians to oppose the You report concerns of civic leaders The report sees a need to in- THE staffing tide for GP practices across Maidstone and rest of Kent change to ensure that there was a legal Medical Campus in Maidstone has shortcomings at an early stage. around the county that they consider the corporate information about GP seems to be improving, according to budget-holding Kent and Med- signed up its first tenant. In 2018, there was a small development requirement for small packets of CCG is not sufficiently in touch with the patient surveys, friends-and- way NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). The “innovation centre” will be on the edge of Sutton Valence where the development land to be used solely for problems of Kent towns and populations. family surveys, complaints and It reports positive changes for the seven months up to September , the home to a health strategy con- house prices started at £975,000. Hardly affordable housing . However, Berry’s This has resulted from the demise of the views of Patient Participation with a slowing down in the number of GPs leaving. An additional 15 sultancy specialising in data-led any affordable houses here, then. letter did contain the following saccharine budget-holding West Kent CCG, led by Groups and Healthwatch. full-time equivalents (as opposed to head counts) were paragraph: “We have also amended CCG governing body mem- projects. In response to my disquiet regarding the local GPs, and the merging of eight area appointed,compared with losses in the GP workforce in 2018 and 2019. waste of scarce development land, I wrote national policy to set out a new approach CCGs in to the Kent body to serve all our bers considered comments that The new building, majority There was also an increase of 30 full-time equivalent practice nurses to my MP to complain. She forwarded this to viability. This will mean that developers very large county. there was a need to ensure en- funded by European development and 34 advanced nurse practitioners. to the Minister of State for Housing and know the contributions that they are This was agreed in October 2019, but gagement with younger people money, will have space for small- On top of that, there were 115 additional roles providing direct pa- then came back with the reply (penned by expected to make and local communities NHS England required formation of and those of working age. and medium-sized enterprises. tient contact to support general practice, including paramedics, phar- MP Jake Berry). This stated that are clear about the infrastructure and localised integrated care partnerships They also heard of the key im- The centre will be neighbour to a macists, social prescribers, health care assistants and physiotherapists. developments with fewer than 10 houses affordable housing they will get in future.” (ICPs) representing GPs and primary care, portance of accessibility to a GP new stepdown recovery facility, The CCG says the training hub is working to increase roles sup- (or less than 0.5 hectares in area) did not Alas, the housing programme in Kent, the hospital(s), all local authorities and and effort expanded to reach that KIMS Hospital, two schools and a porting GP workload, such as advanced clinical practitioners, with have a requirement to include affordable remains ill-managed. KCC, social care, mental health, point (for example, numerous mental hospital which treats crim- places allocated to areas of greatest need. homes. The inference here is that Ray Town, via email community health and more. phone calls). inals.

45 downsmail.co.uk The West Kent ICP has not yet been set of the main arterial roads, particularly the Comment Let’s hear it for teachers up. We require in West Kent a strong voice M20. to project our needs and concerns. There is Traffic will percolate on to the next tier AS A worker in education, I am constantly no shortage of them, especially relating to of road space, which will include all those shocked and disappointed by the the pressure on GPs and the need for new towns along the main routes. This will ignorance of the teaching profession surgeries for a fast-expanding population. mean gridlock in Maidstone, Ashford and among MPs and the public. It was a relief to read the comment of the Canterbury and many others. All of this The bile directed at the profession is also CCG chairman that it must prioritise will call upon the resources of the Kent difficult to accept. Although it is partly needs of the population via its engagement Police to manage the chaos. driven by the consistent “no can do” and listening processes. We know police capability is already attitude of the teaching unions, it is also A recent report before the CCG stretched, so the prospects for any ease of implicitly accepted by politicians. acknowledged there was not a framework movement and maintenance of Yes, there are teachers who “clock off” at for capturing patient experience and, at distribution to daily needs of 3.20pm and moan, whinge and do the bare times, there had been a reactive approach supermarkets etc. will inevitably be minimum between “long holidays”, just as to concerns. disrupted or badly distorted. there are MPs who moan, whinge and do It has been a very tough year for the These forecasts are not exaggerated but the bare minimum between long holidays. NHS and many patients. The existence of real. Inevitable results of shortages will The majority of teachers and teaching the care partnership in West Kent with its mean price escalation, in the first instance. assistants, however, are motivated first own budget, working with the local There will need to be serious control of and foremost by the young people in their primary care networks of GP practices, stockpiling. care. So did Gavin Williamson consider would have helped in Maidstone and It is to be hoped that all of these factors how schools would get messages to the Malling. have been noted, but previous history hundreds and thousands of children on Peter Davidson, Maidstone suggests otherwise. the last week of term, when all they can A “Unhappy New Year” is therefore think about is Christmas? now very much in prospect. Did he consider the fear and mental Victory for Brexiteers Dan Daley, Liberal Democrat borough health of children struggling to cope with the sudden change of plans? FOR more than four years, Brexiteers have councillor for Allington Did he consider how schools would suffered insults from Remainers, many effectively deliver a clear and calm believing themselves to be intellectually message to all students about returning to superior. They saw the biased BBC as one Listen to the locals school? Did he consider the working of their leaders and mouthpieces. THE unbelievable stupidity of ignoring parents who would have to organise We did not waiver after twice voting locals who know their area is evident in childcare in that week beginning January 4 decisively across our nation to be freed the horrendous mess in trying to build on or ask for time off? I suspect not. from the confines of the EU and to regain a flood plain and water meadow at In not one of his announcements has Mr our sovereignty. Roundwell, in Bearsted. Williamson acknowledged the difficulties Now we rejoice in achieving Brexit and This was first instigated in October 2014 faced by teachers during this period. ensuring control over our money, laws, to build 50 homes, comprising 30 plus 20 Teachers have to plan their lessons even borders, seas. affordable homes. Not a brick has been more carefully when teaching online; they At the general election we gave Boris laid and we have had at least 18 months of have to be even more energetic, kind and Johnson a huge majority to “Get Brexit frantic work, including pile-driving, and Done”. Now he has overcome massive supportive. That is not a whinge. It’s a fact. now an ugly retaining wall is being put in Teachers have changed their whole difficulties and appalling political criticism the ground to keep it all stable, I presume. and has about four years (potentially practice to support COVID-safe rules in A huge load-bearing bridge will have to school since we came back in September. many more) to restore the prosperity and be built to exit the site into Cross Keys, worldwide standing of all Great Britain. We have allayed fears; supported children which has a single entrance/exit into the He well deserves our further support. who suffered terribly during lockdown; village road as Sutton Road is partly Remainers now know they have met we have put in place reading private and single lane. Also, the site is on defeat – and I gently smile as they lick interventions, catch-up classes and extra a blind bend. their wounds. work for children who do not have the The new residents will have great Brian Gough, Maidstone confidence, or support at home, to work difficulty in insuring their homes, as they independently. Freedom from the EU are on a flood plain with at least two It is high time the narrative around streams flowing into the development site. teachers changed. AS Maidstone voted so decisively for They will also be responsible for the The unions speak for a minority of Brexit, I am sure many fellow Downs Mail maintenance of the bridge on the estate. teachers because most teachers just want readers will join me in anticipating our The piece de resistance is that to get on with their jobs. freedom both from the EU and also the throughout Bearsted there are sand caves But the more teachers are subject to awful COVID-19. underground. When I have mentioned sudden, ill-considered policies, the louder I wish you all a very happy and these to planners in the past, they knew the unions’ voices become. And the more interesting new year. nothing about them. bile gets directed at all teachers. Belinda Gibbs, Bearsted It is just another example of So what am I asking for? An development at all costs. There is a acknowledgement that teachers have been Unhappy New Year building frenzy going on in Maidstone almost as heroic as NHS workers at IN SENDING a new year greeting, I also and we have lost about 50 fields from playing a major part in keeping the issue a blunt warning of dire times ahead Ditton to Charing, but the only piece of country going. That they care deeply following the latest news from infrastucture built around Maidstone in about the whole child, not just the side that Government which supposedly announces the past 100 years or so has been the M20. comes to their lessons. And that their role various ways in which goods transport Up the road at Woodcut Farm, I raise the in a society should be valued and praised. will be dealt with post January 1. possibility of an industrial estate on a huge May I suggest you ignore what the Setting aside the problems associated amount of archaeological remains. There unions say and speak to any one of the with customs clearance arrangements and are two barrows in the fields opposite and teachers you know? You will then hear the the possible delays to otherwise normal possibly on this site too. This area was rich real story about what motivates them and distribution systems, the arrangements for with Iron Age settlements and there is what their job is really like. And then, only holding laden vehicles in lorry parks will evidence of Roman activity. then, will the narrative start to change. not in any way stop the inevitable clogging Rosemary Harlow, Bearsted Allison MacFarlane, via email

46 downsmail.co.uk Opinion Lockdown the only answer to help NHS COLLEAGUE is at the palais de Ajustice to cover the first two WHILE many of us will be glad to see the appearances of David Fuller, the man back of 2020, this is not the start to the New By Helen accused of two killings of young women Year any of us would have wanted. in Tunbridge Wells 33 years ago, first I know going back into lockdown will be Whately before magistrates and then a judge at crown court. I am intrigued to learn of incredibly tough for people – especially MP for the reported presence of a local multi- parents and children. The Government has Faversham and millionaire businessman in the public done everything possible to avoid these gallery at both. restrictions, but it’s clear this is the only Mid-Kent option to prevent the NHS being T'S a fond farewell, then, to Cllr overwhelmed this winter. IJonathan Purle, the “renegade” We’ve seen in Kent just how quickly this Conservative councillor unknown for his – especially those people who are in care new strain of the virus can spread and the subtle approach to local politics, who is homes. pressure it is putting on our local NHS. This not contesting his Bridge ward seat in We’re stepping up support for businesses picture is now sadly being seen across the May. Why the decision to stand down? and rolling out mass testing to pinpoint “It’s costing me about forty grand a year country, with more people in our hospitals where this virus is in our communities and with COVID-19 than at any time during this to be a borough councillor. Time to get reduce the spread of infections. There are back to work,” he wails. pandemic. now 14 symptom-free testing sites in Kent, I urge everyone to take all possible care including one at the Kent Showground at NDREW Collins, the Conservative and remember that any of us could Detling. I encourage people, if you can, to A“community campaigner”, who was unknowingly have the virus – one in three book a test. More information can be found aiming to take Lib Dem Georgia people who have it have no symptoms but on Kent County Council’s website. Harvey’s spot in Bridge ward, has also can pass it on. If you need urgent treatment I’ll continue to work hard both locally and decided to step aside as the candidate you should absolutely seek it, but we must in Parliament to do everything I can to there. Not the same Mr Collins, who all do what we can to avoid contributing to support people, particularly those who are shares an office with Cllr Purle, is it? It the number of patients in our hospitals. most vulnerable and at risk. surely is! With that said, there are reasons to be We can all help get through this difficult HE recent broadcast on Channel 5 of a hopeful about this new year. We now have time by following the guidance and looking Tfeature about Maidstone’s mummy, three vaccines approved for use in the UK, out for each other. That sense of community featuring historian Bettany Hughes, was which we are rolling out as quickly as spirit we rediscovered at the start of this the TV highlight of the year so far. possible. pandemic will be needed more than ever. Perhaps little known is that La Hughes is Crucially, the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine We face a tough winter ahead, but we will sister to the former Middlesex fast bowler, means we can vaccinate more people, faster get through it together. Simon, who has forged a successful career as a cricket analyst and author. FORMER colleague recalls Get rural businesses online Ahumorous exchanges with “Naughty Tory” MP for Dover, Charlie Elphicke, jailed last year for sexual assaults. When OFCOM'S recently published Connected Na- answering the phone at his Westminster tions report, which measures progress in the By Mike Sims office, for hilarity, an excitable Mr availability and capability of broadband and Communications manager Naughty would announce “Battersea mobile services across all urban and rural Dogs’ Home”. My friend reflects: “Where areas, is a frustrating read. for CLA South east he is now, he probably has more in While minor improvements have been made common with the incarcerated hounds. to improve connectivity, little progress on in- Unwanted and desperate to get out.” creasing 4G and broadband coverage in rural areas has been delivered. work in the countryside. The roll-out of 4G cov- IRST through the doors at the “Innovation Centre” on the Kent Across the Maidstone borough, broadband erage has come to a standstill and the way for F progress to be made is if Government invests Medical Campus is Creation Interactive speeds and the reliability of phone coverage in infrastructure, rather than planning. Limited, previously near neighbours of vary wildly according to where you live or op- Reassurances are also desperately needed MBC at Maidstone House. On his erate your business – a postcode lottery with a on whether rural communities will receive gi- company website, CEO Daniel Ghinn (49) clear urban-rural divide. gabit capable broadband by 2025, following says he has a wife, three children, a cat, a Places like the Lenham Road, near the Government’s U-turn to only invest £1.2bn dog, 28 fish and 160,000 bees. Mr Ghinn is Kingswood, are badly affected by this prob- of the £5bn pledged in the 2019 election cam- also director of the Christian-based lem. And those residents are not alone. paign. Worship.Works which “supports church The CLA, which represents farmers, With only 27% of homes receiving this level congregations and groups by teaching landowners and rural businesses across Maid- of coverage and a lack of investment and in- and speaking in any setting”. I say. stone and the wider region, believes that 4G frastructure in place, Government must come AM grateful to the excellent Headcorn growth in rural areas has completely slowed forward with robust measures on how its long- Iparish magazine, in its Churches down with minimal increases on last year term targets will be met. Otherwise, the rural Together section, for dusting off this old when there should be significant increases economy will be left behind once again. gag: Q-What football position does Jesus year-on-year. For more information about the CLA and its play? A-Goal - because Jesus saves!" This lack of growth does little for the rural work, visit www.cla.org.uk and follow @CLA- economy in Kent, and for those who live and SouthEast on Twitter. Chin chin!

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