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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 June 17th - July 7th No. 297 Panto ahoy! downsmail.co.uk 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 News has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. Bells ready to David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were nationalring treasureout Rustie again Lee (Fairy Weeds anger Godmother),AFTER more than former a year EastEnder of virtual Ste- MP’sA MAIDSTONE Local resident Plan isbid angry fansilence, Booth the (Princesound of Charming), church bells Eliza-will HELENthe council Whately has askedallowed the unsightly bethsoon return Bright to the (Cinderella), parishes. Craig governmentweeds and grassesto halt the to flour- Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, Bell-ringers at Holy Cross church borough’sish in . housing scheme. à43 Stephenin Bearsted Richards are getting and ready Adam for the Bor- zonelifting (Ugly of COVID-19 Sisters) restrictions. this They were greeted by pupils from summer. PlansGardeners for Dr incensed Nigel South Borough Primary School and THEBEARSTED widow ofallotment GP Dr Nigel holders Minnet membersLead ringer of theIan media.Parker, Thepictured panto willclaim walk they the are Grand being moved runson the from church December tower, said: 1-31. “We For are tick- Canyononto smaller for charity. plots in parish 12 etskeen go to to be www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. getting back together to bring the joyful sound of bells back council expansion plans. à4 to our village.” Jason Donovan date l Full story page 16 THEEvery former littleNeighbours helps star brings hisA CURRYshow to thehouse Hazlitt site is to Theatrechange next to allowMay. a Tesco 18 CCTV call in a bid Express branch to open. à6

Crime ‘out of control’ MP faces changes MP Helen Grant could have her A CCTV blind spot in a town centre street is now an “out of control” constituency being carved up at to stop fly-tipping the next election in new propos- crime hotspot, according to local business owners and a councillor. als announced earlier this month CALLS for the installation ofCriminals, CCTV some cameras said to be tocarry- preventA man fly-tipping was charged on with a at- by The Boundary country road have been madeing knives, by are the dealing local hard borough drugs, tempted councillor. murder after an alleged at- Commission. à10 shoplifting and causing fights and tack on May 30 in nearby Brenchley Burberry Lane, near Leeds and nearby,antisocial more behaviour. than a year after it unlicensedGardens, a wastepark known carriers, for but drug- be- à Broomfield, has been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. lieves the cost to small firms of dis- Obituaries 35 Now Liberal Democrat borough dealing and weapon carrying. Obituaries 32 waste dumpers for years, but in re- councillorThe church David car parkNaghi, has pictured, also seen is posingA business of construction owner, who waste asked at not a cent months, the problem has be- many instances of illegal dumping. transfer station is proving a deter- Parishes à37 calling for an urgent meeting with to be named, says he was attacked come more acute. But it is a problem in many rural rent that is costing councils more. the area commander, Chief Inspec- in the street with a metal object, but Parish Councils 34-35 Construction waste, rubble, hard areas including Langley, Cllr Fort made her remarks as Comment à45-47 tor Gary Woodward. He blames police have been unable to establish core, windows and household fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in one of the borough’s closest trans- ASH dieback has been discovered in poor policing, CCTV deficiencies a case because a camera did not niture is left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in ; work. There are 28 town centre in the middle of the road. alsoand beenan influx targeted of newcomers recently. placed bridge Wells, announced it will be HollingbourneChangingvillage stations fete stall- CCTV cameras operated by Maid- holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month byLast London year, councils Maidstone for problems Borough in closed for 10 weeks. SHOPS and cafes are being ear- stone Borough Council (MBC) but resigned; yellow lines are needed we are having toilets, sinks and CouncilWeek Street cleared and 911 Brewer cases Street. of fly-tip- She added: “If you go along the marked for disused buildings at for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow construction waste dumped in the pingCllr and Naghi this said: year “It's more out than of con- 163 linebusiness of increasing support fines, group they One have Maid- to busesNewtwork through Rail Imperial sta- Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry havetrol. Something been recorded has to sincebe done.” April. bestone enforced. (OM) monitors A reduction the images. in the bishtions. bins in the sports fieldà19 in Lane, where we are now thinking TheBusinesspeople approaching darkerclaim criminals evenings chargeMBC or said: offering “There it free was may an haveissue Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private willoperate prompt with a rise impunity in illegal tipping.because theoutside desired of the similar control effect.” of the council the picnic area and rear exit. land, to oversee the problem area.” someCllr Fortcameras welcomed do not a joint work initia- to withA three-monthly the power supply litter that pick affected on the Energy successes A recent event in Burberry Lane tiverecord by evidence the Environment for police prosecu- Agency mile-longa small number stretch of ofcameras. road through This has CrimeTHE borough Reports boasts some of 35the saw a caravan burned out while a andtions. the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Leedsnow been village resolved.” produces an average best renewable energy sources in torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 blackAnother sacks businessman of rubbish. is warning VEHICLESthe county have - according been driven to over thereCllr will Fort, be who a killing also in serves the area. as a farmlandofficial figures. in , causingà21 He added: “We're coming out of a damge to crops; an attempted parish councillor, says teaching childrenpandemic about and socialbusinesses responsibility are trying break-in was reported in Detling; a andto get the back issue to of normal, litter in schoolsso it doesn't will vehicleNew was Mote vandalised Park in cafeBearsted helphelp take if thecriminals issue off are the runningstreets. 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2 downsmail.co.uk News Online sellers Overgrown footpath scam warning MAIDSTONE residents are being warned about fake bank transfers when selling items online. ‘abandoned by council’ A man collected a phone from a victim in Shepway on June 8 after A WEAVERING resident has agreeing to buy it, but failed to criticised Kent County Council transfer the money. for “abandoning” a vital footpath Inspector Steve Kent said: “The in the village. suspect appears to have used a Barry Rogers (69), of Wheat- fake bank app on his phone that fields, is sick and tired of grass gave the impression to the victim cuttings and overgrown verges that funds had been transferred. preventing access to the path in “When the seller later checked Grovewood Drive South, close to their account, it transpired the the Harvesters Way junction. cash had not been deposited. The father of one, who has lived “I would advise anybody sell- in the village for more than 30 ing expensive items to use a rep- years, says the grass is so long that utable online payment platform it is difficult to see where dogs or ask for payment in cash.” have fouled and can become very looked and neglected. completely. It is now ruined and slippery in the winter months. “It used to be cut fairly regularly you can’t even tell anything was The retired insurance broker but has been completely forgotten planted there.” Military show said: “It seems locally we have lost about for the last 12 months. I A Kent County Council (KCC) A MILITARY air show taking all pride in our environment. have lived here for 30 years and spokesman said it only cuts grass place at Aerodrome is “It is a horrible eyesore, a dis- this is the worst it has ever been.” between April and October to celebrating its 13th year. grace, and complete mess. Mr Rogers (pictured) and a maintain highway safety. This unique event, on August 7 “We live in an affluent area and group of neighbours planted bulbs “In urban grass areas, we wait and 8, has a variety of vintage and all we want is to be able to take in the patch of land last year. until six weeks after the flowering modern aircraft displays both on pride in our gardens and sur- He added: “The council work- period before cutting spring flow- the ground and in the air. rounding areas. Weavering in men used to cut around the flow- ers, such as daffodils, so they will Tickets cost £12. Children aged general continues to be over- ers, but now they ignore them grow the following year.” under four go free.

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3 News downsmail.co.uk Police call to ‘illegal rave’ ‘Secret land plan could POLICE were called to a distur- bance said to be an illegal rave at a house in Plantation Road, Bearsted. But some locals dismissed it as a cost us our allotments’ “noisy house party” by young peo- ple who had hired the venue. ALLOTMENT holders say they were kept in the dark over a Bearsted According to an unconfirmed re- port, police were called three Parish Council land acquisition which could mean they lose their plots. times, once after an alleged fight. They say they were only in- Philip Locals complained about noise formed of proposals to move them Noakes and roads blocked by cars. to smaller sites an hour before the A spokesman said: public announcement was made. and Tony “Officers were called at 4.26am on The allotments would become Grieve at Saturday, May 30, to reports of a two courts for Bearsted and Thurn- Bearsted’s disturbance. It is alleged several ham Tennis Club and create part of threatened people were involved in a fight an extension to existing parking on allotments outside a property where a party Church Landway, costing taxpay- had been held. Officers attended ers up to £100,000. Picture by and an investigation is ongoing.” Philip Noakes, a long-standing Chris Lawson plot holder, said: “The whole thing stinks. We are most upset at the added: “It smacks of parish coun- Broughton and Tom Jenkins. Drugs arrest complete lack of communication. cillors attempting a fait accompli A BPC spokesman said the indi- A MAIDSTONE teenager was ar- “Plans were drawn up and dated by this action. There is a lot more vidual allotment size had not been rested on suspicion of drug supply December 2020. The whole thing going on here than meets the eye.” finalised, but hoped plot holders offences. has been a secret. The first any of Gardeners are worried trees and will work with the parish council. Police found quantities of sus- us knew about it was an email re- mature bushes will be destroyed. Parish councillor Denis Spooner pected class A drugs and cannabis, ceived an hour before they made BPC chairman Michael Bollom said: “I am keeping an open mind as well as cash believed to be con- their big announcement.” said: “I have nothing to say. The but I do have concerns about the nected to drug-dealing, in a car in Tony Grieve, an allotment holder whole matter is under the man- way it has been handled.” Marine Drive, Margate. for almost 10 years, said: “There are agement of a working party and The tennis club said: “We An 18-year-old man from Maid- nearly 30 plots here. Moving us all nothing is set in concrete. “ strongly believe this is a fantastic stone, a 16-year-old boy from to new allotments will be costly. The working party consists of opportunity for the wider commu- Ramsgate and a 30-year-old man Fellow gardener Philip Noakes Cllrs Bollom, John Hughes, Martin nity of Bearsted...” from Ramsgate were all arrested on suspicion of drug supply. They were released on bail while enquiries are ongoing. Driver attacked after stopping in lane A “KNIFE-wielding” assailant the road. She put on her hazard during the incident.” Teen injured is being hunted by police after a lights and got out of the car. The suspect is described as A TEENAGE boy was taken to terrifying attack on a rural road A police statement said: "The being white with dark, very hospital after being hit by a car in near Maidstone. victim said she was then as- short hair and was wearing dark Maidstone. Police say the incident hap- saulted by a man who appeared clothing and a blue face mask. The incident in Upper Fant Road pened at about 10pm on June 1 from behind her. Detective Inspector Darren happened at about 10.20pm on as the victim was driving along “She fell to the floor and was Reynolds said: “We are appeal- June 7. Officers and South East Road, . assaulted again, before manag- ing for witnesses who saw the Coast Ambulance Service attended She stopped short of the junc- ing to get back to her vehicle incident or anybody acting sus- and the boy was treated for injuries. tion with Yelsted Lane after she and drive off. The victim suf- piciously in the area between He was taken to a local hospital thought she saw something in fered scratches and bruising 9.30 and 10.30pm to contact us.” for further medical attention.

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 or scan the QR code below. 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 Editor Simon Finlay simon.fi[email protected] Manager 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 call to ‘illegal rave’ ‘Secret land plan could Queen honours POLICE were called to a distur- bance said to be an illegal rave at a house in Plantation Road, Bearsted. borough people But some locals dismissed it as a cost us our allotments’ “noisy house party” by young peo- MAIDSTONE residents have ple who had hired the venue. ALLOTMENT holders say they were kept in the dark over a Bearsted been rewarded in the Queen's According to an unconfirmed re- Parish Council land acquisition which could mean they lose their plots. Birthday Honours list. port, police were called three The recipients come from all times, once after an alleged fight. They say they were only in- Philip walks of life and professions, in- Locals complained about noise formed of proposals to move them cluding disabled sport, the judi- Noakes and roads blocked by cars. to smaller sites an hour before the ciary and debt management. A Kent Police spokesman said: public announcement was made. and Tony Newly-appointed Commanders “Officers were called at 4.26am on The allotments would become Grieve at of the Order of the British Empire Saturday, May 30, to reports of a two courts for Bearsted and Thurn- Bearsted’s (CBE) are Andrew Martin Duffell disturbance. It is alleged several ham Tennis Club and create part of threatened OBE, of Aylesford, of the UK Debt people were involved in a fight an extension to existing parking on allotments Management Office, for services outside a property where a party Church Landway, costing taxpay- to public finance and Maidstone's had been held. Officers attended ers up to £100,000. Picture by Martin William Jones, chief exec- and an investigation is ongoing.” Philip Noakes, a long-standing Chris Lawson utive of the Parole Board. plot holder, said: “The whole thing Maidstone's Adam McEvoy Drugs arrest stinks. We are most upset at the added: “It smacks of parish coun- Broughton and Tom Jenkins. (pictured) is the national develop- complete lack of communication. cillors attempting a fait accompli A BPC spokesman said the indi- ment manager for the Wheelchair A MAIDSTONE teenager was ar- “Plans were drawn up and dated by this action. There is a lot more vidual allotment size had not been Football Association. He was Mr Cheesley was rewarded for rested on suspicion of drug supply December 2020. The whole thing going on here than meets the eye.” finalised, but hoped plot holders awarded the British Empire services to the High Court of Eng- offences. p5 has been a secret. The first any of Gardeners are worried trees and will work with the parish council. Medal (BEM). land and Wales. Police found quantities of sus- us knew about it was an email re- mature bushes will be destroyed. Parish councillor Denis Spooner His work in the strategic plan- The seven centuries' old role of pected class A drugs and cannabis, ceived an hour before they made BPC chairman Michael Bollom said: “I am keeping an open mind ning of the sport, both nationally tipstaff is as an enforcer of the or- as well as cash believed to be con- their big announcement.” said: “I have nothing to say. The but I do have concerns about the and internationally, was recog- ders made by the court. There are nected to drug-dealing, in a car in Tony Grieve, an allotment holder whole matter is under the man- way it has been handled.” nised by the Queen. only two tipstaves in . Marine Drive, Margate. for almost 10 years, said: “There are agement of a working party and The tennis club said: “We An Order of the British Empire Also awarded an MBE is Lor- An 18-year-old man from Maid- nearly 30 plots here. Moving us all nothing is set in concrete. “ strongly believe this is a fantastic (OBE) has gone to Michael raine Daniels, the health and well- stone, a 16-year-old boy from to new allotments will be costly. The working party consists of opportunity for the wider commu- Stephen Nankivell, of Maidstone, being adviser to the HM Treasury, Will, Deputyship, Ramsgate and a 30-year-old man Fellow gardener Philip Noakes Cllrs Bollom, John Hughes, Martin nity of Bearsted...” chairman of the Air Conditioning for public service. She lives in from Ramsgate were all arrested and Refrigeration Industry Board West Malling. on suspicion of drug supply. for services to that sector. Jo Holmes, deputy clerk to the or Power of They were released on bail while Among the Queen's recipients Kent Lieutenancy, based in Ses- enquiries are ongoing. Driver attacked after stopping in lane as Members of the Order of the sions House , Maidstone, has been British Empire (MBE) is Richard made a member of the Royal Vic- Attorney dispute? Teen injured A “KNIFE-wielding” assailant the road. She put on her hazard during the incident.” Douglas Cheesley, of Maidstone, torian Order. The award recog- is being hunted by police after a lights and got out of the car. The suspect is described as tipstaff of the High Court, HM nises personal service to the A TEENAGE boy was taken to Do you have a dispute regarding how a terrifying attack on a rural road A police statement said: "The being white with dark, very Courts and Tribunals Service. sovereign. hospital after being hit by a car in near Maidstone. victim said she was then as- short hair and was wearing dark Will, Deputyship, Estate or Power of Attorney Maidstone. Police say the incident hap- saulted by a man who appeared clothing and a blue face mask. The incident in Upper Fant Road pened at about 10pm on June 1 from behind her. Detective Inspector Darren has been handled? happened at about 10.20pm on as the victim was driving along “She fell to the floor and was Reynolds said: “We are appeal- Job schemes offer hope June 7. Officers and South East Lidsing Road, Boxley. assaulted again, before manag- ing for witnesses who saw the Whitehead Monckton has considerable Coast Ambulance Service attended She stopped short of the junc- ing to get back to her vehicle incident or anybody acting sus- experience in helping clients to resolve and the boy was treated for injuries. tion with Yelsted Lane after she and drive off. The victim suf- piciously in the area between to young unemployed He was taken to a local hospital thought she saw something in fered scratches and bruising 9.30 and 10.30pm to contact us.” MORE job opportunities are taged backgrounds will be able these difficult disagreements and in many for further medical attention. being provided to youngsters to train with employers from a cases achieving excellent financial results. across Kent to curb high youth range of fields as they aim to se- The award­winning Downs Mail newspaper is delivered fortnightly door­to­door in selected areas, and is unemployment caused by the cure more long-term trainee- Call us today on available to pick up from major supermarkets and local stores in the Maidstone and Malling boroughs. pandemic in the last year, writes ships and apprenticeships. Ciaran Duggan. Jobs have included graphic de- Canterbury 01227 643250 The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. Jo James, chief executive of sign, construction, retail and re- Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk or scan the QR code below. Kent Invicta Chamber of Com- ceptionists. These could be Maidstone 01622 698000 We can post the newspaper to you for an annual subscription of £25 for 24 editions. merce, said improving the mar- gateways into future careers, ac- Tenterden 01580 765722 ket for residents aged 16 to 24 cording to Mrs James. For details, email [email protected] or call a member of the team on 01622 630330. had become a “top priority” for She said: “It will be life-chang- London 020 7531 2990 Boris Johnson’s UK government ing to have these opportunities. Editorial Sales and local councils. It will give young people the for an initial no obligation consultation by phone. Editor Simon Finlay simon.fi[email protected] Manager Sara Henslow [email protected] At least 1,300 young people liv- skills and confidence to enter the E-mail [email protected] Editorial team: Accounts: [email protected] ing in the county have secured workplace and will help boost six-month placements through the local economy.” www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Online news editor Jade Schopman Mail Publications Ltd Whitehall’s “kickstart” scheme, It comes as thousands of [email protected] Forge House which launched last November. young people across Kent face a Whiteheadwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Chris Lawson [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park Under this, M&S took on 171 lack of choice in the job market Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Lindsay Roberts [email protected] Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT placements earlier this year. as universal credit applications Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Youngsters from disadvan- have remained high. under no. 608279. Obituaries Neil Nixon [email protected] Call us: 01622 630330 DM 11/19

5 News downsmail.co.uk Fewer are now on furlough Tesco store to share JUST over a fifth of adults in the county were on furlough at the end of April, writes Ciaran Duggan. Outside Medway, Maidstone had the highest number of workers site with restaurant on the job retention scheme. PART of a much-loved curry The latest government statistics show furloughed employees fell by house in will be re- 22% since the end of March, when placed with a new Tesco Express non-essential retail and leisure store, writes Jade Schopman. businesses, as well as outdoor hos- Spice Lounge owner Anhar Ali, pitality settings, re-opened. pictured, says the pandemic has hit Provisional figures estimate by the Heath Road restaurant hard April 30, a total of 71,800 people in and planning permission was Kent and 11,700 in Medway were granted last year to turn the back on furlough. building into a convenience store. This accounts for 21% of those el- Construction is due to start on igible; the majority of those were July 5 with the store opening in the employees in the accommodation first quarter of 2022. and food service sector, with 17,850 The restaurant will operate a in Kent and 2,650 in Medway. takeaway and dine-in service and, Most were female with an esti- once the Tesco store opens, it may and is what the residents want.” right. With the popularity of the mated 38,300 women in Kent and open as a café during the day. The new store will also feature take-away business and reduced 6,300 in Medway. Coxheath councillor Simon an ATM machine. demand for dine-in customers, this Maidstone had the most people Webb said the plans were “com- Mr Ali said: “I know there are project will benefit both myself and outside of the Medway Towns esti- pletely inappropriate”. mixed views about it, but you can’t the local community.” mated to be on furlough at 8,330. Cllr Webb said: “I think it is really win. People thought that Spice Lounge will remain closed The furlough scheme was intro- highly inappropriate when its res- when May 17 came and restric- from July 5 whilst groundworks duced to help employers retain and idents are crying out for a public tions eased, the restaurant would take place. Subject to progress, it to pay their staff through the pan- meeting place like a pub. A pub be busy, but that is not the case. will look to re-open in October this demic. would make money for the owner “The timing of the project is just year.

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6 News downsmail.co.uk Fewer are now on furlough Tesco store to share JUST over a fifth of adults in the county were on furlough at the end of April, writes Ciaran Duggan. Outside Medway, Maidstone had the highest number of workers site with restaurant on the job retention scheme. PART of a much-loved curry The latest government statistics show furloughed employees fell by house in Coxheath will be re- 22% since the end of March, when placed with a new Tesco Express non-essential retail and leisure store, writes Jade Schopman. businesses, as well as outdoor hos- Spice Lounge owner Anhar Ali, pitality settings, re-opened. pictured, says the pandemic has hit Provisional figures estimate by the Heath Road restaurant hard April 30, a total of 71,800 people in and planning permission was Kent and 11,700 in Medway were granted last year to turn the back on furlough. building into a convenience store. This accounts for 21% of those el- Construction is due to start on igible; the majority of those were July 5 with the store opening in the employees in the accommodation first quarter of 2022. and food service sector, with 17,850 The restaurant will operate a in Kent and 2,650 in Medway. takeaway and dine-in service and, Most were female with an esti- once the Tesco store opens, it may and is what the residents want.” right. With the popularity of the mated 38,300 women in Kent and open as a café during the day. The new store will also feature take-away business and reduced 6,300 in Medway. Coxheath councillor Simon an ATM machine. demand for dine-in customers, this Maidstone had the most people Webb said the plans were “com- Mr Ali said: “I know there are project will benefit both myself and outside of the Medway Towns esti- pletely inappropriate”. mixed views about it, but you can’t the local community.” mated to be on furlough at 8,330. Cllr Webb said: “I think it is really win. People thought that Spice Lounge will remain closed The furlough scheme was intro- highly inappropriate when its res- when May 17 came and restric- from July 5 whilst groundworks duced to help employers retain and idents are crying out for a public tions eased, the restaurant would take place. Subject to progress, it to pay their staff through the pan- meeting place like a pub. A pub be busy, but that is not the case. will look to re-open in October this demic. would make money for the owner “The timing of the project is just year. PRECISION PLASTICS HOME IMPROVEMENTS Do you work from home? Have you considered p6 a bespoke office in your garden? PROFESSIONAL WINDOWS AND DOOR INSTALLATION We are a family run business with over 30 years experience We install Double Glazing/Doors/Windows/Aluminium/ Bi-fold Doors and more Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am-5pm Phone for details: 01732 792188 / 07986 214737

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7 News | Crime special downsmail.co.uk Woman ‘hit’ after refusal to Week St cash demand

A YOUNG woman says she was punched in the head in Week Street on June 7 by a stranger demanding money. The alleged incident happened fered concussion, was in the place at our Week Street, Maid- inside the Tesco Express at 2pm, county town to pick up a laptop stone, Express store involving two when the victim went into the store from Kent County Council HQ. customers. We are assisting police How police to buy a bottle of water. She said the episode lasted be- with their enquiries." The woman, aged 21 and from tween five and 10 minutes, but had Conservative borough Cllr Tom are ‘keeping Greenhithe, was confronted in the affected her badly. Cannon, member for nearby street by a woman with orange She tried to return to work in Bridge ward, said: “All crime and hair asking for money. adult social care that Wednesday assault is bad. But there is some- town safe’ When the victim said she had no but had to leave after an hour. thing particularly shocking about DISTRICT commander for cash, the alleged assailant followed Kent Police said: “It is alleged a an assault in broad daylight. Maidstone, Chief Inspector her into Tesco asking her to buy woman in her 20s was approached “In light of a few brazen assaults Gary Woodward, said: “Maid- medication. Again she refused. by another woman she did not in the town during the daytime, I stone has a dedicated team of A few moments later, the know, who assaulted her.” have written to Kent Police and constables and police commu- woman reappeared with boxes de- The victim says the woman was Crime Commissioner, Matthew nity support officers who work manding the victim pay for them, wearing cream tracksuit bottoms, a Scott, to request more town centre to keep residents, employees which she again declined to do. dark green, crochet top and had patrols. I have also asked for more and visitors to the town safe. She was then hit on the back of dyed orange hair. patrols of the riverside and our “Our officers are regularly on foot in the retail areas, parks and the head. A Tesco spokesman said: “We parks at dusk – an issue raised with public spaces, meeting the pub- The victim, who says she suf- are aware of an incident that took me during the recent election.” lic and responding swiftly to crime and antisocial behaviour when they encounter it. “We often carry out proactive Four held after ‘mass brawl’ in town operations to enhance public FOUR men were arrested and de- safety and deter offenders from tained following an alleged mass coming to the town. This in- brawl in Maidstone. cludes working with British The incident happened in Week Transport Police in the use of Street, near the junction with knife arches and searches at rail- Brewer Street, at around 2.45am on way stations. Friday, June 11. “Officers liaise closely with Police officers and paramedics partner agencies and security went to the scene and four men staff at shops, bars and night- were treated for injuries and taken clubs to identify potential disor- to hospital. der and intervene. They were later arrested on suspi- “We will not hesitate to im- cion of affray and taken into cus- pose dispersal orders in the tody. Two forensic officers were at town where there is a need, and the scene the next morning taking this requires those who do not swab samples from bins and behave appropriately to leave putting them in evidence tubes. the area or risk arrest. “Brenchley Gardens is regu- larly patrolled at all times of the day and is part of the town cen- Readers have their say Assault report tre that falls under a Public A WOMAN and a man were re- THIS what Downs Mail readers said laugh, got a town with more cam- Spaces Protection Order. The portedly assaulted in broad daylight on our Facebook page about the eras than the Big Brother house that conditions of the order allow in Fremlin Walk shopping centre. crime situation in Maidstone: would catch you flicking a fag butt our officers to confiscate alcohol The incident happened at 4pm Lynn Boulding wrote: “No won- on the floor and fine you £60 but from anybody drinking in the der I don't like going into Maid- can’t find a no-doubt toothless on Sunday, May 30. park. stone anymore. Pull your finger out, crackhead on CCTV.” A Kent Police spokesman said: “We carry out regular checks Maidstone police.” Sophie J Cook “It is alleged a man approached the with the park manager for hid- Shax Hussain said: “What is said: “Always pair and, following a short conver- den or discarded knives and Maidstone coming to? Honestly, I problems in sation, he assaulted them both. other weapons, and are working do not even feel safe anywhere.” Week Street and “The victims were punched and with the local council to identify Pauline Walton posted: “What is police are suffered bruising. The suspect then other opportunities to prevent the world coming to?” nowhere to be walked to a nearby coffee shop, and deter crime.” Ben John Steel wrote: “Makes me seen.” where he sat down outside for a few minutes before leaving the area." Reporting team: Jade Schopman and Simon Finlay Police are appealing for help. 8 News | Crime special downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Woman ‘hit’ after refusal Never too old for a mortgage? to Week St cash demand The mortgage market has make your retirement more is so much regulation and changed considerably in recent comfortable there are many protection in place nowadays years and no one has noticed options available. that the schemes of the past are this more than local adviser unrecognisable to the wealth of A YOUNG woman says she was punched in the head in Week Street on Retirement mortgages or Equity Sarah Ferrell. options available today. June 7 by a stranger demanding money. Release can provide a safe and “I am finding that I speak very welcome solution to many “My role is to fully understand The alleged incident happened fered concussion, was in the place at our Week Street, Maid- increasingly to people who are people who just don’t know why somebody is looking to inside the Tesco Express at 2pm, county town to pick up a laptop stone, Express store involving two retired, or approaching that this may be an option. raise the money, what their when the victim went into the store from Kent County Council HQ. customers. We are assisting police retirement, and they need to plans for the future are and Sarah says, “I find that lots of to buy a bottle of water. She said the episode lasted be- with their enquiries." raise mortgage finance for a then find the scheme that is How police people who could benefit from The woman, aged 21 and from tween five and 10 minutes, but had Conservative borough Cllr Tom whole variety of different right for them.” With 27 years’ experience in finance raising money at retirement are Greenhithe, was confronted in the affected her badly. Cannon, member for nearby reasons but the high street is and over 6 years specialising in are ‘keeping put off by bad press and other “If somebody is considering street by a woman with orange She tried to return to work in Bridge ward, said: “All crime and unable to help” Equity Release, Sarah takes pride people saying it is a bad idea raising money at retirement hair asking for money. adult social care that Wednesday assault is bad. But there is some- in the time and care she takes with With over 27 years’ experience when in truth there are so then I would strongly her clients. She is happy to visit your town safe’ When the victim said she had no but had to leave after an hour. thing particularly shocking about DISTRICT commander for in the mortgage market Sarah many different options there is recommend a conversation as home and she is not just available cash, the alleged assailant followed Kent Police said: “It is alleged a an assault in broad daylight. 9-5, but will offer flexible times to Maidstone, Chief Inspector continues to deal with all bound to be a solution. What there are likely to be options her into Tesco asking her to buy woman in her 20s was approached “In light of a few brazen assaults manner of mortgage enquiries is important is getting the right available that people just don’t suit her clients. Gary Woodward, said: “Maid- medication. Again she refused. by another woman she did not in the town during the daytime, I stone has a dedicated team of and is one of the few advisers scheme for the individual” know exist” says Sarah. A few moments later, the know, who assaulted her.” have written to Kent Police and fully qualified and licensed to For more information or a constables and police commu- woman reappeared with boxes de- The victim says the woman was Crime Commissioner, Matthew Sarah explains that there are Sarah is happy to visit your free initial consultation, please nity support officers who work deal with retirement lending. manding the victim pay for them, wearing cream tracksuit bottoms, a Scott, to request more town centre many different ways in which home and, unlike many banks, call Sarah on 01622 631372, to keep residents, employees which she again declined to do. dark green, crochet top and had patrols. I have also asked for more Whether you need to repay a retirement mortgages can be set she is not just available 9-5 07789 007447 or e-mail her at and visitors to the town safe. She was then hit on the back of dyed orange hair. patrols of the riverside and our mortgage, finance some up so it is definitely not a “one but will offer flexible times to [email protected] “Our officers are regularly on unexpected expenditure or just size fits all” scenario and there suit her clients. foot in the retail areas, parks and the head. A Tesco spokesman said: “We parks at dusk – an issue raised with public spaces, meeting the pub- The victim, who says she suf- are aware of an incident that took me during the recent election.” lic and responding swiftly to crime and antisocial behaviour MORTGAGES EQUITY RELEASE RE-MORTGAGE BUY-TO-LET FIRST TIME BUYERS when they encounter it. Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits. “We often carry out proactive Four held after ‘mass brawl’ in town operations to enhance public FOUR men were arrested and de- safety and deter offenders from tained following an alleged mass coming to the town. This in- brawl in Maidstone. cludes working with British The incident happened in Week Transport Police in the use of Street, near the junction with knife arches and searches at rail- Brewer Street, at around 2.45am on way stations. Friday, June 11. “Officers liaise closely with Police officers and paramedics partner agencies and security went to the scene and four men staff at shops, bars and night- were treated for injuries and taken clubs to identify potential disor- to hospital. ACCOUNTING, TAX AND BUSINESS ADVICE der and intervene. They were later arrested on suspi- “We will not hesitate to im- cion of affray and taken into cus- Delivering a personal service, both digitally pose dispersal orders in the tody. Two forensic officers were at town where there is a need, and the scene the next morning taking and at your door this requires those who do not swab samples from bins and behave appropriately to leave putting them in evidence tubes. the area or risk arrest. • Accounting & Business • Payroll “Brenchley Gardens is regu- Support • Forensic Accountancy larly patrolled at all times of the • Audit & Assurance • Restructuring & Insolvency day and is part of the town cen- Readers have their say Assault report tre that falls under a Public A WOMAN and a man were re- • Banking & Finance • Tax Advisory THIS what Downs Mail readers said laugh, got a town with more cam- Spaces Protection Order. The portedly assaulted in broad daylight on our Facebook page about the eras than the Big Brother house that • Corporate Finance conditions of the order allow in Fremlin Walk shopping centre. crime situation in Maidstone: would catch you flicking a fag butt our officers to confiscate alcohol The incident happened at 4pm Lynn Boulding wrote: “No won- on the floor and fine you £60 but from anybody drinking in the der I don't like going into Maid- can’t find a no-doubt toothless on Sunday, May 30. park. stone anymore. Pull your finger out, crackhead on CCTV.” A Kent Police spokesman said: For more information, contact your local Azets team: “We carry out regular checks Maidstone police.” Sophie J Cook “It is alleged a man approached the with the park manager for hid- Shax Hussain said: “What is said: “Always pair and, following a short conver- den or discarded knives and Maidstone Maidstone coming to? Honestly, I problems in sation, he assaulted them both. other weapons, and are working do not even feel safe anywhere.” Week Street and “The victims were punched and T 01622 690666 with the local council to identify Pauline Walton posted: “What is police are suffered bruising. The suspect then other opportunities to prevent the world coming to?” nowhere to be walked to a nearby coffee shop, and deter crime.” Ben John Steel wrote: “Makes me seen.” where he sat down outside for a azets.co.uk few minutes before leaving the [email protected] area." Reporting team: Jade Schopman and Simon Finlay Police are appealing for help. 9 News downsmail.co.uk MP faces change in constituency

MAIDSTONE and the Weald MP and villages such as Leeds and Ul- Helen Grant could face a strong combe to the Weald of Kent seat. Liberal Democrat challenge in a The new leader of KCC’s Lib shake-up of parliamentary con- Dem group, former MEP Antony stituencies at the next election. Hook, was mooted as a candidate. Large chunks of Conservative Barrister Mr Hook (41) said: “It’s Mrs Grant's true blue rural com- flattering to be thought of but, no, munities in Maidstone and The not at the moment.” Weald would be subsumed into a Mrs Grant gained a 21,772 ma- new Weald of Kent constituency. jority in 2019, with 42% of the vote The Boundary Commission is on a turnout of nearly 68%. seeking to increase the number of The commission is required to Kent MPs from 17 to 18, to reflect a make sure constituencies have growing population. similar electorates, meaning the Her “patch” would take in most number of English MPs would rise Blue Bus work rewarded of the county town – borough by 10 to 543. Its proposals are now URBAN Blue Bus, the volunteer first aid and welfare point serving Maid- council wards largely held by Lib under public consultation. stone’s town centre on Saturday nights, received a visit from the High Dems – and gain Lib Dem-held A spokesman for Mrs Grant Sheriff of Kent. areas such as East Malling. It will said: “The initial proposals are John Weir, and his wife Beverley, presented the High Sheriff’s Award be named Maidstone and Malling. subject to extensive consultation. for work in the community to Blue Bus trustee Val Jacobs, on behalf of But gone will be Tory enclaves The consultation process last time all the team. such as Hunton, Linton, Staple- saw more than 50% of the compo- Staffed entirely by volunteers, the bus provides welfare services to hurst, Cranbroook and Marden. sition of constituencies change and anyone enjoying the night-time economy in the town centre. Faversham and Mid-Kent MP this is just the start of the process, Our picture shows trustee Val Jacobs holding the award with volun- Helen Whately would lose wards thus it is far too early to com- teers and High Sheriff John Weir and his wife Beverley. on the edges of her constituency, ment.”

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11 News downsmail.co.uk Charity tow MAIDSTONE Riverside Rotarians will join two Kent schools on June Lisa looking forward 24 to tow a ShelterBox emergency container the 21 miles from Swan- ley to Maidstone. The UK-based charity provides to helping her parish shelter and emergency equipment to disaster-hit areas around the world. SITTING in the bay window of portant to me that my role helps The Rotarians will join pupils the recently-acquired parish office make the parish a better place for ev- from St Paul’s Swanley and West in Lenham High Street, Lisa West- eryone.” Kingsdown Primary School to raise cott is relishing the challenges of John Britt, chairman of the parish funds for the charity’s 21st birthday. her position as clerk, writes Chris council, said: “Lisa replaces Margo Their route will mainly use the Lawson. McFarlane, who retired after 10 mag- footpath along the A20 through The 40-year-old, who has two nificent years in the role. It was her Wrotham, West Malling and Lark- young children at schools in the vil- decision to step down when we ac- field before finishing at the Mughal lage, took up the role three months quired a parish office. She thought it Dynasty restaurant in Maidstone. ago. was the perfect time to appoint a new Kent born and bred (she grew up and younger clerk. The parish clerk on Romney Marsh), Lisa has lived in is the focal point. It’s a vital job, the Summer walks Lenham since the family moved fulcrum around which everything TONBRIDGE and Malling Ram- there in 2012. flows.” blers are looking forward to explor- After graduating from Greenwich From a shortlist of five applicants, ing the Kent countryside and are University with a BSc Honours de- two were identified as serious con- welcoming non-members. gree in environmental geology, she tenders. The group routes are mostly cir- enjoyed a successful career with the John said: “Lisa’s background in cular, at moderate pace, and cover Environment Agency (EA) before ap- the Environment Agency and her up to six miles. Walks follow plying for the parish clerk position. understanding of planning applica- COVID-19 guidelines and test and Lisa said: “I wanted something tions were the deciding factor.” trace details will be collected. local. My role at the EA covered a Lisa said: “It’s a steep learning For more information, email large area, but now it’s very local. It’s curve. With my background, I’m info@tonbridgeandmallingram- nice to see almost immediately the ef- hoping I can help influence future blers.org.uk. fects of what you do in a job. It’s im- environmental issues.” p12 Affordable options for heating your home or business with good old fashioned customer service.

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12 News downsmail.co.uk YMCA MAIDSTONE Charity tow MAIDSTONE Riverside Rotarians will join two Kent schools on June Lisa looking forward Under 5’s 24 to tow a ShelterBox emergency container the 21 miles from Swan- Toddler ley to Maidstone. The Kentish Lady is synonymous with Maidstone The UK-based charity provides to helping her parish Session as it cruises along the beautiful River Medway. shelter and emergency equipment to disaster-hit areas around the world. SITTING in the bay window of portant to me that my role helps The Rotarians will join pupils the recently-acquired parish office make the parish a better place for ev- from St Paul’s Swanley and West in Lenham High Street, Lisa West- eryone.” Kingsdown Primary School to raise cott is relishing the challenges of John Britt, chairman of the parish funds for the charity’s 21st birthday. her position as clerk, writes Chris council, said: “Lisa replaces Margo Their route will mainly use the Lawson. McFarlane, who retired after 10 mag- Term Time Only footpath along the A20 through The 40-year-old, who has two nificent years in the role. It was her Wrotham, West Malling and Lark- young children at schools in the vil- decision to step down when we ac- Only £5.00 Private Charter lage, took up the role three months quired a parish office. She thought it field before finishing at the Mughal per session Dynasty restaurant in Maidstone. ago. was the perfect time to appoint a new Hire the Kentish Lady, one of Kent’s most unique venues is Kent born and bred (she grew up and younger clerk. The parish clerk available for your party or function, cruise the beautiful Kent Summer walks on Romney Marsh), Lisa has lived in is the focal point. It’s a vital job, the ‘Sing & Storytime’ Monday 10-10.45am countryside with friends and family on your special occasion. Lenham since the family moved fulcrum around which everything ‘Moving & Grooving’ Tuesday 11-12pm TONBRIDGE and Malling Ram- there in 2012. flows.” Excursions blers are looking forward to explor- After graduating from Greenwich From a shortlist of five applicants, ‘Stay & Play’ Wednesday 10-11am ing the Kent countryside and are University with a BSc Honours de- two were identified as serious con- We run various excursions for groups and individuals welcoming non-members. gree in environmental geology, she tenders. ‘Bounce & Play’ Friday 10-11am throughout the season including a unique and exclusive The group routes are mostly cir- enjoyed a successful career with the John said: “Lisa’s background in For more information speak to reception visit to Allington Castle. cular, at moderate pace, and cover Environment Agency (EA) before ap- the Environment Agency and her up to six miles. Walks follow plying for the parish clerk position. understanding of planning applica- Maidstone YMCA, Melrose Close, Loose, COVID-19 guidelines and test and Lisa said: “I wanted something tions were the deciding factor.” Maidstone, Kent ME15 6BD trace details will be collected. local. My role at the EA covered a Lisa said: “It’s a steep learning Tel: 01622 749404 www.maidstoneymca.org.uk Call our office or visit our website for more information at For more information, email large area, but now it’s very local. It’s curve. With my background, I’m info@tonbridgeandmallingram- nice to see almost immediately the ef- hoping I can help influence future Find us on Charity Number: 1110087 www.kentishlady.co.uk | 01622 753740 Undercliffe boathouse, Bishops Way, Maidstone Kent ME15 6XG blers.org.uk. fects of what you do in a job. It’s im- environmental issues.” SUPPORT & ADVICE ACCOMMODATION FAMILY WORK HEALTH & WELLBEING TRAINING & EDUCATION p12 Fully Licensed and air Conditioned. Open 7 days a week from 5.30pm - 11pm Every Tuesday is banquet Night £14.95

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15 News downsmail.co.uk Church bells to ring out again CHURCH bells could soon be heard again over Bearsted, if COVID-19 restrictions are lifted this summer, writes Simon Finlay. The quintessentially English welcome sound. We have a whole ringing sound has been a con- series of summer weddings com- stant in the village for nearly 600 ing up and it'll be nice to hear the years, and it is hoped peals from bells on those occasions, as well Holy Cross Church will be heard as Sundays." in all their glory once more later Mr Parker invited more people to this month. come forward to "learn the ropes" The last time they were si- and take up bell-ringing. Contact lenced was during WWII, when [email protected]. then Prime Minister Winston Churchill decreed that church l THE bells of the ancient East bells were only to be sounded in Farleigh Church (founded in the event of an enemy invasion. 961) are due to ring out at 9am Here in Kent, as the Battle of on Sunday, June 20, before the Britain raged overhead 81 years 9.30 Holy Communion service, ago, that threat was more real after a gap of more than a year than just about anywhere else in caused by COVID-19 the country. restrictions. The order was lifted only to cel- ebrate the crucial victory at Alamein in 1942 and then perma- nently in 1943. Cathrine joins church team Holy Cross bell tower captain A NEW curate has taken up her role with the ministry team at Holy Cross Ian Parker said: "Ringing is a Church in Bearsted. team activity rooted in our na- Cathrine Ngangira (29) moved to the village in June last year after tional culture. We are keen to get training for three years at Durham University. back together to bring the joyful Miss Ngangira said she felt “very supported” entering the role, and has sound of bells back to our village. yet to explore the community. She added: “It has been an interesting adventure. I do miss my family "We plan to ring as before for a lot and moving in was hard, but I have been very fortunate. Sunday services, weddings and “I think a lot of people have been very shaken up and are a bit at large occasions of national or local im- on what to do since the pandemic. portance, with regular practice “I want to use my experience to help people grow and learn. I want to and training on Tuesday be a visible presence in the church.” evenings." Miss Ngangira was born and brought up in Chinhoyi, a town in the Canon John Corbyn, vicar at Mashonaland West province of Zimbabwe. Holy Cross, said: "It will be a very A new leader Parking ne ‘down to Park assault A MAN has been charged with for Lib Dems attempted murder following an ANTONY Hook is the new Leader user error’, says firm attack in Brenchley Gardens. of Kent Liberal Democrats. CAR park operator YourPark- of the shopping centre. Hamdi Braiek (33), of Hart He will head up the Lib Dem ingSpace, has hit back at claims A YourParkingSpace statement Street, has been remanded to a group at County Hall after being that many people are receiving said: “Since going live at the hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on July 2. A man in his 30s elected unanimously by council- parking fines, despite paying at Mall we have become aware of a was assaulted near Station Road lors. newly-installed digital payment small percentage of customers at about 7.20pm on May 30 and is Lawyer Mr Hook (41), married machines. receiving a PCN due to entering said to be in a serious but stable with two daughters under three, The new payment system in- their incorrect vehicle registra- condition. represents Faversham on Kent stalled at the Mall Shopping tion when paying. Centre car park has been criti- “This has affected under 1.5% A 39-year-old Maidstone man County Council. He is also a for- was also detained and has been mer Member of the European Par- cised by retired Maidstone of customers, with over 98% en- butcher John Jenner. tering their correct registration bailed to return to the police sta- liament for south-east England. He said: “Many people have when paying.” tion on June 28. Mr Hook said: “This is a great trouble with this firm’s payment The company spokesman Officers are appealing for wit- honour, having been a member of system, especially the elderly.” added that further measures are nesses to the assault. the party since I was 18. Mr Jenner received a parking being introduced to minimise “I am determined to lead the charge notice (PCN) for £100 sev- the risk of customers entering an party in Kent in a way that pro- eral days after visiting the Mall incorrect vehicle registration. Garden show vides effective opposition to the for less than an hour and paying These include updated THE Amateur Gardeners’ Society Conservatives at County Hall. the £2 parking charge. prompts on the payment termi- in Leeds and Broomfield is “We will scrutinise what the ad- After sharing his story, he says nals and SMS notifications to putting on a summer show at St ministration is doing and put for- many others came forward ex- customers who entered a vehicle Nicholas’ Church on August 7. ward additional or alternative pressing similar experiences, registration not recognised by Schedules are available from plans to benefit people in Kent.” with some suggesting a boycott the cameras. Barbara Turner on 01622 861551. 16 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Church bells to ring out again CHURCH bells could soon be heard again over Bearsted, if COVID-19 restrictions are lifted this summer, writes Simon Finlay. The quintessentially English welcome sound. We have a whole ringing sound has been a con- series of summer weddings com- stant in the village for nearly 600 ing up and it'll be nice to hear the years, and it is hoped peals from bells on those occasions, as well Holy Cross Church will be heard as Sundays." in all their glory once more later Mr Parker invited more people to this month. come forward to "learn the ropes" The last time they were si- and take up bell-ringing. Contact lenced was during WWII, when [email protected]. then Prime Minister Winston Churchill decreed that church l THE bells of the ancient East If you find reading difficult or unpleasant, a new bells were only to be sounded in Farleigh Church (founded in eye-tracking examination available at Award Winning the event of an enemy invasion. 961) are due to ring out at 9am Buchanan Optometrists could significantly improve Here in Kent, as the Battle of on Sunday, June 20, before the Britain raged overhead 81 years 9.30 Holy Communion service, your reading comfort and speed (by up to 10 times). ago, that threat was more real after a gap of more than a year than just about anywhere else in caused by COVID-19 the country. restrictions. The order was lifted only to cel- ebrate the crucial victory at Alamein in 1942 and then perma- nently in 1943. Cathrine joins church team Holy Cross bell tower captain A NEW curate has taken up her role with the ministry team at Holy Cross Ian Parker said: "Ringing is a Church in Bearsted. team activity rooted in our na- Cathrine Ngangira (29) moved to the village in June last year after tional culture. We are keen to get training for three years at Durham University. back together to bring the joyful Miss Ngangira said she felt “very supported” entering the role, and has sound of bells back to our village. yet to explore the community. She added: “It has been an interesting adventure. I do miss my family "We plan to ring as before for a lot and moving in was hard, but I have been very fortunate. Sunday services, weddings and “I think a lot of people have been very shaken up and are a bit at large occasions of national or local im- on what to do since the pandemic. portance, with regular practice “I want to use my experience to help people grow and learn. I want to and training on Tuesday be a visible presence in the church.” evenings." Miss Ngangira was born and brought up in Chinhoyi, a town in the Canon John Corbyn, vicar at Mashonaland West province of Zimbabwe. Holy Cross, said: "It will be a very A new leader Parking ne ‘down to Park assault A MAN has been charged with for Lib Dems attempted murder following an ANTONY Hook is the new Leader user error’, says firm attack in Brenchley Gardens. of Kent Liberal Democrats. CAR park operator YourPark- of the shopping centre. Hamdi Braiek (33), of Hart He will head up the Lib Dem ingSpace, has hit back at claims A YourParkingSpace statement Street, has been remanded to a group at County Hall after being that many people are receiving said: “Since going live at the hearing at Maidstone Crown Court on July 2. A man in his 30s elected unanimously by council- parking fines, despite paying at Mall we have become aware of a was assaulted near Station Road lors. newly-installed digital payment small percentage of customers at about 7.20pm on May 30 and is Lawyer Mr Hook (41), married machines. receiving a PCN due to entering said to be in a serious but stable with two daughters under three, The new payment system in- their incorrect vehicle registra- condition. represents Faversham on Kent stalled at the Mall Shopping tion when paying. Centre car park has been criti- “This has affected under 1.5% A 39-year-old Maidstone man County Council. He is also a for- was also detained and has been mer Member of the European Par- cised by retired Maidstone of customers, with over 98% en- butcher John Jenner. tering their correct registration bailed to return to the police sta- liament for south-east England. He said: “Many people have when paying.” tion on June 28. Mr Hook said: “This is a great trouble with this firm’s payment The company spokesman Officers are appealing for wit- honour, having been a member of system, especially the elderly.” added that further measures are nesses to the assault. the party since I was 18. Mr Jenner received a parking being introduced to minimise “I am determined to lead the charge notice (PCN) for £100 sev- the risk of customers entering an party in Kent in a way that pro- eral days after visiting the Mall incorrect vehicle registration. Garden show vides effective opposition to the for less than an hour and paying These include updated THE Amateur Gardeners’ Society Conservatives at County Hall. the £2 parking charge. prompts on the payment termi- in Leeds and Broomfield is “We will scrutinise what the ad- After sharing his story, he says nals and SMS notifications to putting on a summer show at St ministration is doing and put for- many others came forward ex- customers who entered a vehicle Nicholas’ Church on August 7. ward additional or alternative pressing similar experiences, registration not recognised by Schedules are available from www.optometrists.co.uk plans to benefit people in Kent.” with some suggesting a boycott the cameras. Barbara Turner on 01622 861551.

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18 downsmail.co.uk News Crash arrest Shop plans for ‘wasted’ A LEYBOURNE man who was arrested following a hit and run accident has been released. A motorcyclist was taken to a London hospital on May 22 after rail station buildings colliding with a pick-up truck in West Malling High Street. SHOPS, cafes and community "The idea itself is a few years old The driver reportedly failed to spaces could move into the empty and everything has been put on stop at the scene and police later buildings at and hold during the COVID-19 crisis, launched an appeal for wit- Bearsted railway stations. but we have to get the ball rolling nesses. Regeneration plans are now now. They are attractive buildings He was arrested on suspicion of being considered as the county in a great location with parking, so dangerous driving. starts to get back to normality. why not?" The Kent Community Rail Part- Cllr Garten says he is to write to nership (KCRP) has been examin- the new Leeds Castle chief execu- Homes plan ing ways to bring the unused tive, Helen Bonser-Wilton, to argue MAJOR changes are planned for buildings into permanent use. the case for Hollingbourne to be Colman House at 10 King Street, The buildings, owned and main- the stop for the tourist attraction. Maidstone, tained by Network Rail, are among However, in normal times A planning application has a number at 13 stations the KCRP Bearsted carries 360,000 customers been submitted for the second are considering uses for. annually and Hollingbourne just floor to be converted from offices A community shop/coffee shop 60,000. to six residential units plus the and taxi rank may be viable at Bearsted, which saw passenger creation of six terraced homes. Hollingbourne, according to a local use plunge by 60% during COVID- councillor. 19, could support a permanent li- North Downs borough member brary, shop and cafe. Parish council Vicar to retire Patrik Garten (pictured) said: "The discussions with Network Rail to THE Rev Peter Callway, whose buildings at the station are wasted. acquire the nearby coal yard are benefice includes the five parishes The idea would be to have a com- ongoing. of Coxheath, Linton, Hunton, munity shop/coffee shop and a taxi Other KCRP stations, such as East and , is to retire service to the Great Danes (Mer- East Malling, may be enhanced by in September after eight years in cure) hotel and Leeds Castle. the use of artwork. the post. Buying, selling or both? Whitehead Monckton solicitors can help you complete all the legal steps, whether you’re buying or selling a property.

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19 News downsmail.co.uk Post-COVID walking test MP: Cancer changed PEOPLE who are recovering from COVID-19 are being offered a new walking test as part of their rehabilitation. my life for the better Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust has introduced MP Tracey Crouch has reflected on the “incremental shuttle” format, her cancer fight over the past year. normally used for patients with The member for Chatham and chronic heart problems, but Aylesford, who revealed last June which is now proving successful that she had been diagnosed with in treating Coronavirus patients. breast cancer, was treated by the The test measures a patient’s fit- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells ness and ability, particularly in NHS Trust (MTW). breathing and breathlessness, al- Miss Crouch, pictured, said her lowing physiotherapists to pre- diagnosis had come as a surprise scribe specific exercise plans but the cancer had been caught tailored to individuals. early. The mum of one son, Fred- die, said the devastating news had changed her life for the better. Balloon race On June 14, she wrote on Face- BEARSTED Primary School PTA book: “A year ago today, I found a is holding a virtual balloon race to lump in my breast. What followed intake and upped my exercise. “The support of family, friends, raise money for the school. was a whirlwind of operations, “On my ‘lumpiversary’ I want to colleagues, constituents and even The event will take place on Au- chemotherapy and radiotherapy urge people to check their bits and strangers has been amazing. gust 8 and balloons are £3 each. under the brilliant guidance and bobbins. If you have any symp- “I've learnt to embrace all that is Proceeds will go towards play care of Maidstone Hospital. toms that may indicate cancer, good, stop stressing about things equipment and “buddy benches” “A cancer diagnosis has changed please talk to your GP.” out of my control, prioritise those I for the playground. There will be my life, but much for the better. Miss Crouch finished her last ra- love and be thankful for every day cash prizes to be won. Go to eco- Since treatment finished I've diotherapy treatment in February. I get to stride purposefully through racing.co./user/page/1796. changed my diet, reduced alcohol The former sports minister said: the streets of life.” p20 The Kent County Summer Fayre 10th & 11th July 2021

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20 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Post-COVID COVID cash Borough tops renewable A SOCIAL housing provider has walking test MP: Cancer changed provided £55,000 for groups who PEOPLE who are recovering from are helping families through the COVID-19 are being offered a COVID-19 pandemic. new walking test as part of their resources table in Kent Around 30 organisations have rehabilitation. my life for the better benefited from grants of up to Kent Community Health NHS £2,000. MAIDSTONE boasts the highest Among those to receive a cash Foundation Trust has introduced MP Tracey Crouch has reflected on number of renewable energy boost are Greenfields Community the “incremental shuttle” format, her cancer fight over the past year. sources in the county. Primary School, St Martin’s normally used for patients with The member for Chatham and Data released by the Department chronic heart problems, but Aylesford, who revealed last June of Business, Energy and Industrial Church, children’s charity Dan- which is now proving successful that she had been diagnosed with Strategy to coincide with World delion Time and Maidstone Men- in treating Coronavirus patients. breast cancer, was treated by the Environment Day on June 5, re- cap. The test measures a patient’s fit- Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells vealed 2,225 renewable sources in ness and ability, particularly in NHS Trust (MTW). the borough, with solar panels, like School fair breathing and breathlessness, al- Miss Crouch, pictured, said her those pictured at near Lenham, lowing physiotherapists to pre- diagnosis had come as a surprise being among the most common. VALLEY Invicta Primary School scribe specific exercise plans in Aylesford is putting on a sum- but the cancer had been caught A total of 23,140 renewable decommissioning is also concern- Data was collected to the end of tailored to individuals. mer school fair on July 3. early. The mum of one son, Fred- sources across Kent. By contrast, ing. 2019, the last year for which statis- The fair will run from 11am to die, said the devastating news had Dartford has just 999. A CPRE spokesman said: “Solar tics are available. 3pm, and entry costs 50p. Balloon race changed her life for the better. The department studied the panels should be put on new builds Maidstone Borough Council On June 14, she wrote on Face- number of photovoltaic (or solar) but certainly not on farmland.” All funds raised will go to the BEARSTED Primary School PTA leader, Cllr David Burton said re- book: “A year ago today, I found a energy production sites, onshore Maidstone Green Party cam- cently that “the environment, cli- school. is holding a virtual balloon race to lump in my breast. What followed intake and upped my exercise. “The support of family, friends, and offshore wind turbine sites and paigner Stuart Jeffery said: “It’s mate change and biodiversity will raise money for the school. was a whirlwind of operations, “On my ‘lumpiversary’ I want to colleagues, constituents and even other green energy producers such nice to see Maidstone at the top of not be a separate agenda - it will be Market day The event will take place on Au- chemotherapy and radiotherapy urge people to check their bits and strangers has been amazing. as anaerobic digestion, plant the pile, but this is just a tiny por- every agenda”for his newly-elected gust 8 and balloons are £3 each. under the brilliant guidance and bobbins. If you have any symp- “I've learnt to embrace all that is biomass and municipal solid waste. tion of the needs we have to tackle. administration. ALLINGTON Community Mar- Proceeds will go towards play care of Maidstone Hospital. toms that may indicate cancer, good, stop stressing about things CPRE, the countryside charity, “What is worse is how far behind With housing targets set by cen- ket will take place on July 2. equipment and “buddy benches” “A cancer diagnosis has changed please talk to your GP.” out of my control, prioritise those I welcomes renewable energy the other towns are. Why aren’t tral Government, he said air qual- The event at St Nicholas Church for the playground. There will be my life, but much for the better. Miss Crouch finished her last ra- love and be thankful for every day sources but questions placing them they at the same level? Dartford ity, tree-planting, open spaces and Hall will include a pop-up tea- cash prizes to be won. Go to eco- Since treatment finished I've diotherapy treatment in February. I get to stride purposefully through on farmland. The carbon footprint was the lowest, with less than energy efficiency are key in off-set- room, produce stalls and crafts. racing.co./user/page/1796. changed my diet, reduced alcohol The former sports minister said: the streets of life.” for the panels and their eventual 1,000.” ting the huge increase in homes. It will run from noon to 3pm.

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21 News downsmail.co.uk Bike schemes to cut traffic RESIDENTS are being urged to get on their bikes, with the town hall considering two new schemes for those on two wheels. The council sees cycle/scooter park-and-ride sites at Willington and village centres, a hub at Maid- hire and ‘cycle parking’ as ways Street and possibly in Allington. stone Hospital (for visitors and of reducing the county town’s Maidstone Hospital, Oakwood staff), lockers at , Beltring, congested roads and boosting the Park campus and other sites will Harrietsham and Hollingbourne local economy. also be considered. stations and at the two park-and- Greener forms of travel are cen- The committee asked for a de- ride sites. tral to the new administration at tailed officer report on costs and Disabled cycle parking could fea- Maidstone Borough Council. potential providers by October. ture at Bearsted, , Har- Electric and pedal-powered The council sees benefits to the rietsham, Headcorn, Hollingbourne, cycles would be hired at desig- local economy, with more people Maidstone East, Marden and Sta- nated centres for commuters to travelling on local streets, an in- plehurst stations. travel the last mile or so to and centive to improve the visitor Several councillors spoke of po- from the town centre. But power economy including cycling op- tential benefits to rural communi- scooters are on hold until Gov- portunities in Mote Park, health ties, encouraging residents to cycle ernment makes a decision on benefits, a reduction in harmful to main roads where public trans- safety. pollutants from vehicles and a re- port is more readily available. The council’s strategic planning duction in commuter costs associ- The initial council budget is little and infrastructure committee is ated with other forms of more than £50,000, but if it is suc- keen to see the scheme pro- transport. cessful more funding could be gressed, with initial pick-up and The committee is also planning found for expansion, mostly from drop-off points at Maidstone East a range of cycle parks across the housing developer contributions. and West stations, the town cen- borough. The committee will consider a tre bus station, Mote Park and There could be stands in town progress report and timeline. Pupils back to Road funds QUESTIONS are being asked in home learning Maidstone Borough Council as to PARENTS at a Maidstone junior why developer funding from the school had to revert back to home- McDonald’s restaurant in Hart schooling because of overrunning Street, opened eight years ago, has engineering works. not yet been used to improve traf- Children at North Borough Ju- fic flows in the area. nior School had to learn remotely The council’s Strategic Planning on June 8 whilst Kent County and Infrastructure Committee has Council (KCC) carried out inves- called for a report on these S106 tigative work on an old air raid funds and the role of KCC as the shelter under the playground. highways infrastructure provider. The work started during half Councillors spoke of public con- term but had to be extended. cerns about increasing traffic prob- James Sanderson, head of prop- lems and wanted to know if this erty operations at KCC, said: “To TV spot for rescued Blossom was now a design or financial ensure the safety of the school com- A DOG who was being eaten alive by maggots has appeared on a new problem. munity we asked the school to pro- Channel 5 show. vide pupils with remote learning The first episode of The Dog Rescuers featured Blossom, a lurcher cross, from Maidstone. Emaciated Blossom was found shut in a kennel and cov- Planning roles for the first few days of term while CHAIRMAN of Maidstone Bor- investigations are completed. ered in flies. She was so sick she was given just hours to live. RSPCA animal rescue inspector Rosie Russon said: “She had little wounds ough Council’s Strategic Planning “Some areas of the school site scattered around her body, where she was so thin and, living in a kennel, and Infrastructure Committee is may remain fenced off until fol- it had just rubbed her skin. There were probably more than 1,000 mag- now Cllr Paul Cooper (Con), with low-up work can be carried out, gots on her body – probably only 24 hours old.” Cllr Val Springett (Con) vice-chair- and we will keep the school up- Blossom was quickly rescued and later became healthy enough to be man. dated as the work progresses.” re-homed. Cllr Cooper takes over from Cllr Head teacher Jenny Chiverton David Burton (Con), now council wrote to parents: "I know that this leader. has been unwelcome news for you, please believe that it is for us, too. WI welcomes new members “We would far rather be in KINGS Hill Women’s Institute to welcome new members. Parish praise school with the children. We've all will be re-uniting in the commu- Meetings are held on the fourth BOTH Lenham and Boughton missed far too much school time al- nity centre on Wednesday, June 23.Wednesday of each month and ac- Monchelsea Neighbourhood Plans ready this year and have just got The WI group, which has not tivities include a walking club, a have passed MBC’s final planning back into a flow and routine. met for over a year due to the cinema club, lunch and dinner stages. “However, it is vital that we do pandemic, will be meeting in clubs as well as coffee mornings. Councillors praised the “fantas- everything we are instructed to do line with all COVID-19 proto- The group welcomes women of tic work” of the parish councils to ensure the safety of everybody.” cols, and organisers are hoping all ages, from 18 upwards. and local communities. 22 News downsmail.co.uk Bike schemes to cut traffic RESIDENTS are being urged to get on their bikes, with the town hall considering two new schemes for those on two wheels. The council sees cycle/scooter park-and-ride sites at Willington and village centres, a hub at Maid- hire and ‘cycle parking’ as ways Street and possibly in Allington. stone Hospital (for visitors and of reducing the county town’s Maidstone Hospital, Oakwood staff), lockers at Barming, Beltring, congested roads and boosting the Park campus and other sites will Harrietsham and Hollingbourne local economy. also be considered. stations and at the two park-and- Greener forms of travel are cen- The committee asked for a de- ride sites. tral to the new administration at tailed officer report on costs and Disabled cycle parking could fea- Maidstone Borough Council. potential providers by October. ture at Bearsted, East Farleigh, Har- Electric and pedal-powered The council sees benefits to the rietsham, Headcorn, Hollingbourne, cycles would be hired at desig- local economy, with more people Maidstone East, Marden and Sta- nated centres for commuters to travelling on local streets, an in- plehurst stations. travel the last mile or so to and centive to improve the visitor Several councillors spoke of po- from the town centre. But power economy including cycling op- tential benefits to rural communi- scooters are on hold until Gov- portunities in Mote Park, health ties, encouraging residents to cycle ernment makes a decision on benefits, a reduction in harmful to main roads where public trans- safety. pollutants from vehicles and a re- port is more readily available. The council’s strategic planning duction in commuter costs associ- The initial council budget is little and infrastructure committee is ated with other forms of more than £50,000, but if it is suc- keen to see the scheme pro- transport. cessful more funding could be gressed, with initial pick-up and The committee is also planning found for expansion, mostly from drop-off points at Maidstone East a range of cycle parks across the housing developer contributions. and West stations, the town cen- borough. The committee will consider a tre bus station, Mote Park and There could be stands in town progress report and timeline. Pupils back to Road funds QUESTIONS are being asked in home learning Maidstone Borough Council as to PARENTS at a Maidstone junior why developer funding from the school had to revert back to home- McDonald’s restaurant in Hart schooling because of overrunning Street, opened eight years ago, has engineering works. not yet been used to improve traf- Children at North Borough Ju- fic flows in the area. nior School had to learn remotely The council’s Strategic Planning on June 8 whilst Kent County and Infrastructure Committee has Council (KCC) carried out inves- called for a report on these S106 tigative work on an old air raid funds and the role of KCC as the shelter under the playground. highways infrastructure provider. The work started during half Councillors spoke of public con- term but had to be extended. cerns about increasing traffic prob- James Sanderson, head of prop- lems and wanted to know if this erty operations at KCC, said: “To TV spot for rescued Blossom was now a design or financial ensure the safety of the school com- A DOG who was being eaten alive by maggots has appeared on a new problem. munity we asked the school to pro- Channel 5 show. vide pupils with remote learning The first episode of The Dog Rescuers featured Blossom, a lurcher cross, from Maidstone. Emaciated Blossom was found shut in a kennel and cov- Planning roles for the first few days of term while CHAIRMAN of Maidstone Bor- investigations are completed. ered in flies. She was so sick she was given just hours to live. RSPCA animal rescue inspector Rosie Russon said: “She had little wounds ough Council’s Strategic Planning “Some areas of the school site scattered around her body, where she was so thin and, living in a kennel, and Infrastructure Committee is may remain fenced off until fol- it had just rubbed her skin. There were probably more than 1,000 mag- now Cllr Paul Cooper (Con), with low-up work can be carried out, gots on her body – probably only 24 hours old.” Cllr Val Springett (Con) vice-chair- and we will keep the school up- Blossom was quickly rescued and later became healthy enough to be man. dated as the work progresses.” re-homed. Cllr Cooper takes over from Cllr Head teacher Jenny Chiverton David Burton (Con), now council wrote to parents: "I know that this leader. has been unwelcome news for you, please believe that it is for us, too. WI welcomes new members Sat 27th Nov - Sun 2nd Jan “We would far rather be in KINGS Hill Women’s Institute to welcome new members. Parish praise school with the children. We've all will be re-uniting in the commu- Meetings are held on the fourth BOTH Lenham and Boughton missed far too much school time al- nity centre on Wednesday, June 23.Wednesday of each month and ac- Monchelsea Neighbourhood Plans ready this year and have just got The WI group, which has not tivities include a walking club, a have passed MBC’s final planning back into a flow and routine. met for over a year due to the cinema club, lunch and dinner stages. “However, it is vital that we do pandemic, will be meeting in clubs as well as coffee mornings. Councillors praised the “fantas- everything we are instructed to do line with all COVID-19 proto- The group welcomes women of tic work” of the parish councils to ensure the safety of everybody.” cols, and organisers are hoping all ages, from 18 upwards. and local communities.

23 News downsmail.co.uk Park pervert A MAN indecently exposed him- self in a park, just yards away from Thug who abused and families enjoying the sunshine. The incident happened in Brenchley Gardens, near Station Road, at about 2pm on June 1. spat at police is jailed A man in his 70s was arrested and released pending inquiries. Sergeant Andrew Ferguson said: A VIOLENT thug who headbut- He also admitted charges of “We would like to speak to any- ted, abused and spat at police of- being drunk and disorderly, crim- body who witnessed a man acting ficers has been jailed for six inal damage and an unrelated suspiciously or indecently.” months. shoplifting offence. Kenneth Britcher (32), of Wil- District Commander for Ton- Sports coup lowside, Snodland, bit a police bridge and Malling, Chief Inspec- constable and struck another in tor Omid Changizi, said: COVERAGE of the Euro 2020 and the face during his arrest in “Britcher’s behaviour was utterly Tour de France is being filmed at September, 2020. abhorrent. Maidstone Studios. He then spat at a policeman and “Every day our officers are re- This is the second year the fa- screamed: “I hope you get COVID”. quired to attend unpredictable, mous bike race is being covered Britcher later appeared to be- challenging and sometimes from the Vinters Park facility. come unwell and a female officer volatile situations. However, like Chairman of Maidstone Studios, helped him by holding a bucket any other job, officers should be Geoff Miles, said: “To have such prestigious tournaments broadcast- in case he needed to be sick. He able to perform their roles with- ing from our facilities is fantastic.” turned his head from the bucket out being the subject of such dis- and spat in her face. gusting and potentially dangerous Four months later police were actions. Model show called to Britcher’s home again, in “Any assaults on police officers THE Southern Model Show will connection to another distur- the officers. He headbutted one of and staff are completely unac- take place at Headcorn Aerodrome bance. the constables in the chest, forcing ceptable and we will not hesitate on August 21 and 22. He was taken to hospital for him backwards. to prosecute those who put their The event will feature model medical attention and whilst Britcher pleaded guilty to five safety and the safety of other aircraft, helicopters, ships, tanks, waiting to be seen by a doctor, he counts of assault by beating of an emergency workers at risk in this and other vehicles. started shouting and swearing at emergency worker. way.”

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24 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Park pervert A MAN indecently exposed him- self in a park, just yards away from Thug who abused and £12m mental health care boost families enjoying the sunshine. The incident happened in ELDERLY patients are expected to receive better care in Kent as the NHS unveils £12million Brenchley Gardens, near Station plans to revamp mental health services over the next 18 months, writes Ciaran Duggan. Road, at about 2pm on June 1. spat at police is jailed A man in his 70s was arrested The Kent and Medway Clinical Her comments came during a ham to Maidstone. About 30% of Two others are based at Darent and released pending inquiries. Commissioning Group (CCG) virtual meeting involving Kent elderly people using Medway Valley Hospital in Dartford: Or- Sergeant Andrew Ferguson said: A VIOLENT thug who headbut- He also admitted charges of wants to create new accommoda- County Council’s (KCC) health hospital’s Ruby ward live in the chards and Jasmin wards. “We would like to speak to any- ted, abused and spat at police of- being drunk and disorderly, crim- tion for 16 older residents with scrutiny committee earlier this Medway Towns and neighbour- Vincent Badu, deputy chief ex- body who witnessed a man acting ficers has been jailed for six inal damage and an unrelated mental health conditions, such as month. ing Swale. The remaining 70% are ecutive of the Kent and Medway suspiciously or indecently.” months. shoplifting offence. dementia, at Maidstone Hospital, This forms part of a £650m based in west Kent. NHS and social care partnership Kenneth Britcher (32), of Wil- District Commander for Ton- in Hermitage Lane. pledge from Boris Johnson’s Gov- It is hoped the experience of pa- trust, said: “We assess the needs Sports coup lowside, Snodland, bit a police bridge and Malling, Chief Inspec- They aim to offer “high-qual- ernment to remove “outdated” tients and loved ones will im- of the patient and allocate them to constable and struck another in tor Omid Changizi, said: ity” single en-suite bedrooms, as mental health dormitories across prove with the proposed changes. the appropriate bed, based on COVERAGE of the Euro 2020 and the face during his arrest in “Britcher’s behaviour was utterly well as a lounge and garden the UK. The total number of beds will also their needs rather than geograph- Tour de France is being filmed at September, 2020. abhorrent. where patients can relax and so- Maidstone Studios. Under this, the Maidstone unit increase by two. ical location.” He then spat at a policeman and “Every day our officers are re- This is the second year the fa- cialise. The site will also be made will replace an “old-fashioned” There are four other mental KCC’s health scrutiny commit- screamed: “I hope you get COVID”. quired to attend unpredictable, mous bike race is being covered COVID-19 secure. mental health ward, operating at health wards based across the tee gave their support to the Britcher later appeared to be- challenging and sometimes from the Vinters Park facility. Karen Benbow, the Kent CCG’s Medway Maritime Hospital with county for people aged 65 and NHS-led plans. come unwell and a female officer volatile situations. However, like Chairman of Maidstone Studios, director of system commission- 14 beds. over. They include Heather ward Construction work will begin at helped him by holding a bucket any other job, officers should be Geoff Miles, said: “To have such ing, said: “This will provide a fan- Some elderly patients may be in Canterbury and Woodchurch Maidstone Hospital in October prestigious tournaments broadcast- in case he needed to be sick. He able to perform their roles with- tastic therapeutic environment for required to travel 12 miles from on the QEQM site in Margate, and is expected to be completed ing from our facilities is fantastic.” turned his head from the bucket out being the subject of such dis- patients.” the Windmill Road site in Gilling- Thanet. by November next year. and spat in her face. gusting and potentially dangerous Four months later police were actions. Model show called to Britcher’s home again, in “Any assaults on police officers Picnic tables THE Southern Model Show will connection to another distur- the officers. He headbutted one of and staff are completely unac- From flight-handling to 999 role take place at Headcorn Aerodrome bance. the constables in the chest, forcing ceptable and we will not hesitate He was taken to hospital for him backwards. to prosecute those who put their are set alight on August 21 and 22. DAVID Ruiz-Celada has been ap- to have appointed David to this im- medical attention and whilst Britcher pleaded guilty to five safety and the safety of other A FUNDRAISING page has been The event will feature model pointed as the new executive direc- portant role and I am confident his waiting to be seen by a doctor, he counts of assault by beating of an emergency workers at risk in this set up after picnic benches near a aircraft, helicopters, ships, tanks, tor at South East Coast Ambulance character, personality and experi- and other vehicles. started shouting and swearing at emergency worker. way.” nature reserve were set alight in . Service (SECAmb). ence will prove hugely beneficial. The fire in The Bartons on June He will join the trust in September “I would like to formally welcome this year and will focus on delivering him ahead of his arrival in Septem- 14 is thought to have been started timely patient care. ber and look forward to working deliberately. Nobody was injured. Originally from Barcelona and an closely with him in future.” A Kent Fire and Rescue aeronautical engineer by training, Mr Ruiz-Celada said: “I am de- spokesman said: “One fire engine David has spent the last decade lighted to be joining the team and attended and crews used flexi- working in the aviation industry. look forward to meeting the col- packs and fire buckets to extin- He has worked across airlines and leagues who day-in, day-out make a guish the fire. No casualties were air handling operators in Spain and difference to our communities. reported. It’s believed the fire was most recently at London City Air- “I trust that my slightly different started deliberately." port. background will bring in a new per- Residents say the blaze is the SECAmb chief executive officer spective that will help make the ser- latest of many fires in the village, Philip Astle said: “I am really pleased vice even better.” p24 with firefighters called to the same site just weeks before. One resident, who did not want to be named, said: “Sadly this is Appeal after racism claim Police call one of many fires that happen in the nature reserve. DO YOU know who this woman “If it’s not the fire brigade, it’s is? Police want to talk to her in after brawl the local residents intervening to connection with allegations of A MAN was taken to hospital after put the fire out. racial abuse in Maidstone town a mass brawl outside a pub in “Lots of antisocial behaviour centre. Headcorn. happens down there most week- This CCTV image was ob- The fight reportedly happened ends – drugs, underage drinking tained around the time it was re- outside the George and Dragon and all the rubbish left behind.” ported that a pedestrian was pub at around 6.10pm on June 13. To donate, go to https://go- subjected to threats and then fol- It is alleged two men were as- fund.me/04cb45c4 lowed, during an incident in saulted, one of whom was taken to Wheeler Street on May 18. hospital and has since been dis- A police spokesman said: “The charged. School raffle victim had initially been at a An eyewitness said forensics at- FRIENDS of Ryarsh Primary pedestrian crossing when a per- tended and officers put blue tape School are holding a summer raf- son unknown to her is alleged to around the scene. fle on July 4. have started shouting abuse and An investigation is ongoing and Tickets are £1 each. The party making threats. anyone with information is asked will be held via Zoom if the event “After the victim was followed to call Kent Police on 01622 604100, is cancelled. towards a nearby shop, the sus- quoting reference 46/101919/21, or Call Rebecca on 07904183159 to pect was refused entry and left contact Crimestoppers anony- buy tickets. the scene.” mously on 0800 555111.

25 News downsmail.co.uk ‘No dates’ for start on road Task force steps up improvements HIGHWAYS authority Kent County Council (KCC) admits it has no idea when controversial its activity on estate road “improvements’’ will start. KCC claims the priority remains KENT Police’s use of stop and search powers increased by almost 60% the A249 Bearsted Road round- abouts’ enlargement, but there are last year, focusing on an area of Maidstone where fear of crime is rising. no dates for the start of work. The number of challenges car- Meanwhile, the demolition of ried out by officers county-wide the Wheatsheaf pub will be the increased by 57% last year – an av- first sign of work on a £5.6m sig- erage of 1,131 every month in 2020, nalised junction at the A274/Loose compared with 717 in 2019. Road. No work has commenced. Since October last year, the The “Keep Maidstone Moving’’ newly-created Maidstone Task scheme aims to reduce congestion Force has stopped and searched and ease traffic flow on the A20, 253 people on the Shepway estate. A26, A229 and A249 especially. The body is made up of Kent Po- A KCC spokesman said: “The lice, councils and other interested priority is starting work on the bodies such as housing associa- A249 Bearsted Road and KCC is tions. Of 100 arrests made on the looking at road space availability estate, 29 charges were brought for to see when other elements of the programme can be delivered. possession of class A drugs, han- here days after an alleged kinife in- they’re doing. These reassurances “We are reviewing the delivery dling stolen goods, theft, assault cident in March, is a long-term from the task force, while wel- programme for work on the and criminal damage. critic of policing on the estate. He come, did not reflect evidence on Wheatsheaf junction, especially Twenty-four offenders were re- said: “I was aware of the task force the ground.” against the backdrop of other called to prison or placed before … but we have yet to see a reduc- Inspector Steve Kent, of the schemes that need to be delivered the courts, while five resulted in tion in antisocial behaviour. An ar- Maidstone Community Safety and to fully incorporate feedback cautions or fixed penalty notices. rest doesn't necessarily result in a Unit, said: “Officers and our part- from the consultation.” The task force claims to be on charge. You could arrest 500 peo- ners have been very visible within Pressed for details, a KCC the estate every day, although ple but then only charge 40, of the community, working to make spokesman insisted: “As I said orig- Kent Police has repeatedly refused which three may get a custodial Shepway a safe place to live, work inally, we don't have any dates.” to disclose to Downs Mail the level sentence. The residents I repre- and visit. “We have been bringing of policing on the ground. sented wanted charges and sen- offenders to justice, reporting sus- Former Shepway south borough tences fitting the crime, not just pects and offering support, advice Cemetery work councillor Eddie Powell, pictured Kent Police bragging how well and guidance where required.” WORKS to improve Oakwood Cemetery have been completed. A new entrance to the cemetery, in Oakapple Lane, just off Her- Daily life in a mitage Lane, was installed, along with footpaths and seating. new musical Cllr Ashleigh Kimmance said: A MUSICAL about the lives “This cemetery is an important his- of everyday people in Maid- torical landmark for Maidstone stone is coming to the Hazlitt and is the final resting place for Theatre next month. thousands of patients and staff Ordinary People, a show from the hospital. “It is a beautiful area and these written by award-winning works will hopefully encourage composer and lyricist Darren more residents to enjoy it.” Clark, will run between July The site was initially a cemetery MP opens new McDonalds 30 -31. for Oakwood Hospital, a psychi- A NEW McDonald's restaurant and drive-through has opened in Snodland. The performance will fea- atric hospital founded in 1833 The branch of the fast-food chain, on the A228 Holborough Road, opened ture a mixture of professional which, at its peak, cared for over its doors on June 2. actor musicians, the Hazlitt 2,000 patients. It closed in 1994. There was local opposition to the plans, with dozens of objections lodged Youth Theatre, The Hazlitt with the local authority in advance of the planning decision. Dance Company and The Ha- Kitchen blaze MP Tracey Crouch said: “I was thrilled to open the new McDonald's in zlitt Choir, and will be di- Snodland. They've already recruited around 50 crew and are in process of rected by Jenny Longley. FIREFIGHTERS tackled an acci- recruiting another 50, many of whom are local. A Hazlitt spokesman said: dental kitchen fire in Hunton. “We had a good chat about litter, something that I know upsets many, “It's a show that explores the The blaze happened at a house and how they can get more involved in the Snodland community.” extraordinary nature of our in Lughorse Lane at about 9.30pm Franchisee Paul Crocker said: “We are delighted to be opening a new everyday lives and reveals on May 26. Three fire engines were restaurant in Snodland, bringing additional jobs to the town. that all of us have a story sent to the scene. No casualties “As a business, we are passionate about the communities we serve in that's worth telling.” were reported. and we look forward to playing our part as a good neighbour in Snodland.” To book, go to www.park- A Kent Fire and Rescue The restaurant features self-service kiosks, digital menu boards and an woodtheatres.co.uk/Hazlitt- spokesman said: “It's believed the app, which allows customers to order and pay in advance. fire was due to an electrical fault.” Theatre. 26 News downsmail.co.uk WE DO ALL THE ‘No dates’ for HARD WORK SO YOU start on road DON’T HAVE TO . Task force steps up CHEAPER THAN A Summer improvements SKIP AND WE LOAD. HIGHWAYS authority Kent Homes & Gardens County Council (KCC) admits it has no idea when controversial its activity on estate road “improvements’’ will start. KCC claims the priority remains KENT Police’s use of stop and search powers increased by almost 60% the A249 Bearsted Road round- abouts’ enlargement, but there are last year, focusing on an area of Maidstone where fear of crime is rising. no dates for the start of work. The number of challenges car- Meanwhile, the demolition of ried out by officers county-wide Why have all the trouble of ordering a skip or the Wheatsheaf pub will be the increased by 57% last year – an av- wasting your weekends queuing at the local tip? first sign of work on a £5.6m sig- erage of 1,131 every month in 2020, nalised junction at the A274/Loose compared with 717 in 2019. House, Office, Garden,Shed & Road. No work has commenced. Since October last year, the Garage Clearance Service The “Keep Maidstone Moving’’ newly-created Maidstone Task scheme aims to reduce congestion Force has stopped and searched For more information on our junk clearance and ease traffic flow on the A20, 253 people on the Shepway estate. A26, A229 and A249 especially. services or to book your junk removal call The body is made up of Kent Po- A KCC spokesman said: “The lice, councils and other interested today on 07780 730217 or 078794732298 priority is starting work on the bodies such as housing associa- A249 Bearsted Road and KCC is tions. Of 100 arrests made on the • CRB CERTIFIED looking at road space availability estate, 29 charges were brought for to see when other elements of the • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER programme can be delivered. possession of class A drugs, han- here days after an alleged kinife in- they’re doing. These reassurances dling stolen goods, theft, assault “We are reviewing the delivery cident in March, is a long-term from the task force, while wel- [email protected] programme for work on the and criminal damage. critic of policing on the estate. He come, did not reflect evidence on Wheatsheaf junction, especially Twenty-four offenders were re- said: “I was aware of the task force the ground.” www.sosrecycling.co.uk against the backdrop of other called to prison or placed before … but we have yet to see a reduc- Inspector Steve Kent, of the the courts, while five resulted in schemes that need to be delivered tion in antisocial behaviour. An ar- Maidstone Community Safety All Major credit cards and debit cards taken | Kitchen cautions or fixed penalty notices. rest doesn't necessarily result in a Unit, said: “Officers and our part- and to fully incorporate feedback and bathroom fitters welcome. All trades welcome. from the consultation.” The task force claims to be on charge. You could arrest 500 peo- ners have been very visible within Pressed for details, a KCC the estate every day, although ple but then only charge 40, of the community, working to make spokesman insisted: “As I said orig- Kent Police has repeatedly refused which three may get a custodial Shepway a safe place to live, work inally, we don't have any dates.” to disclose to Downs Mail the level sentence. The residents I repre- and visit. “We have been bringing of policing on the ground. sented wanted charges and sen- offenders to justice, reporting sus- We are a well established, Former Shepway south borough tences fitting the crime, not just pects and offering support, advice family business based in Kent Cemetery work councillor Eddie Powell, pictured Kent Police bragging how well and guidance where required.” and we have 44 years of WORKS to improve Oakwood experience in the domestic Cemetery have been completed. and commercial sectors. A new entrance to the cemetery, in Oakapple Lane, just off Her- Daily life in a mitage Lane, was installed, along with footpaths and seating. new musical Cllr Ashleigh Kimmance said: A MUSICAL about the lives “This cemetery is an important his- of everyday people in Maid- torical landmark for Maidstone stone is coming to the Hazlitt and is the final resting place for Theatre next month. thousands of patients and staff Ordinary People, a show from the hospital. “It is a beautiful area and these written by award-winning works will hopefully encourage composer and lyricist Darren more residents to enjoy it.” Clark, will run between July The site was initially a cemetery MP opens new McDonalds 30 -31. for Oakwood Hospital, a psychi- A NEW McDonald's restaurant and drive-through has opened in Snodland. The performance will fea- atric hospital founded in 1833 The branch of the fast-food chain, on the A228 Holborough Road, opened ture a mixture of professional which, at its peak, cared for over its doors on June 2. actor musicians, the Hazlitt 2,000 patients. It closed in 1994. There was local opposition to the plans, with dozens of objections lodged Youth Theatre, The Hazlitt with the local authority in advance of the planning decision. Dance Company and The Ha- Kitchen blaze MP Tracey Crouch said: “I was thrilled to open the new McDonald's in zlitt Choir, and will be di- Snodland. They've already recruited around 50 crew and are in process of rected by Jenny Longley. We specialise in Gate Automation, in FIREFIGHTERS tackled an acci- recruiting another 50, many of whom are local. A Hazlitt spokesman said: house fabrication, bespoke made gates, dental kitchen fire in Hunton. “We had a good chat about litter, something that I know upsets many, “It's a show that explores the all types of fencing, patios, driveways. The blaze happened at a house and how they can get more involved in the Snodland community.” extraordinary nature of our in Lughorse Lane at about 9.30pm Franchisee Paul Crocker said: “We are delighted to be opening a new everyday lives and reveals on May 26. Three fire engines were restaurant in Snodland, bringing additional jobs to the town. that all of us have a story sent to the scene. No casualties “As a business, we are passionate about the communities we serve in that's worth telling.” were reported. and we look forward to playing our part as a good neighbour in Snodland.” To book, go to www.park- 07879 414440 A Kent Fire and Rescue The restaurant features self-service kiosks, digital menu boards and an woodtheatres.co.uk/Hazlitt- spokesman said: “It's believed the app, which allows customers to order and pay in advance. [email protected] fire was due to an electrical fault.” Theatre.

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29 News downsmail.co.uk Driver banned A DRIVER has been disqualified after being stopped behind the Cafe and learning hub wheel whilst nearly double the legal limit for alcohol. Benjamin Rodell-Jones (42), of St Luke's Road, Maidstone, was planned for Mote Park sentenced last month at Maid- stone Magistrates' Court. He admitted driving a motor MOTE Park is set to get a new vehicle when above the legal al- cafe, which will also have space cohol limit on April 30. for learning and community hire. When tested, he gave a reading The existing diner, toilets and es- of 63mg of alcohol in 100ml of tate offices will be demolished to breath. The legal limit is 35mg. enhance views over the county He was disqualified from driv- town's scenic lakes. ing for 40 months and fined £784. Cllr David Burton, leader of He was also ordered to pay a sur- Conservative-led Maidstone Bor- charge of £78 and costs of £85. ough Council (MBC), said he is "thrilled" that work is to start soon thrilled that work is finally able to struction Ltd, said “We are thrilled Homes plan on the facilities, which are due to begin on these much-needed facil- to be part of this exciting opportu- open next year. ities. nity to deliver the new park café WARMLAKE Garden Centre is to MBC is project leader, with “The buildings will include a toi- and services building within the be turned into a building site with work, due to start as Downs Mail let for people with limited physical heart of Maidstone’s Mote Park. permission for 18 houses. went to press, being carried out by capacity as well as a flexible space The new café will offer much-im- The plans for housing had met BBS Construction Ltd. which will be available all year proved facilities and will be en- with opposition, particularly The cafe, set in the park's 440 round for local schools and com- joyed by generations to come.” from the parish council, which acres, will have indoor and out- munity groups to hire." The cafe comes as part of the said the community would lose door tables and new toilets. He said improved landscaping council's £4.3million investment in an important retail outlet. Cllr Burton said: "The past year and new surfacing would link the the redevelopment and improve- But the centre’s management has shown us how important new facilities to the car park, where ments of Mote Park. said it was becoming increasingly being able to get out and enjoy increased bicycle parking will also A new estate building will also difficult to compete with online beautiful green spaces is to our be provided. be added closer to the leisure cen- retailers. wellbeing. Therefore, we are Geoff Slee, director of BBS Con- tre. HAMILTON KITCHENS Quality & Design At Thep30 Right Price

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31 News downsmail.co.uk NHS thanks NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) Village concern over marked national Patient Participa- tion Group Awareness Week (May 31-June 6) by thanking all patient representatives who helped shape homes on school site health services. . It continues to encourage mem- bers of the public to contact their HARRIETSHAM residents have GP practice to find out how they voiced disappointment at plans can join their own PPG. submitted to Maidstone Borough In the last 12 months, public par- Council for development of the ticipation has helped to design end old school buildings on the A20. of life care, dementia services, and Under plans submitted by MK ‘long Covid’ support. Projects London Ltd, the derelict buildings will be replaced by five homes, two with five bedrooms, Pop in to cafe and three with four bedrooms. All A MONTHLY pop-up café is com- properties will have a garage. ing to Kingswood. Some residents complained on ancestors must be turning in their but retains a mix of buildings, from The event will run at the village social media about the plans. graves. Absolutely shocking.” grand Georgian dwellings to the shop forecourt in Charleswood Av- But Harrietsham parish council- Another said: “My old school. more humble almshouses, dating enue from 10.30am to 12.30pm on lor Eddie Powell said: “It’s excel- So, so sad.” from the 17th century. August 8 and September 2. lent that something is finally being Plans have been drawn up by Councils have a legal obligation done with the site. MBC to designate East Street, Har- to designate conservation areas, “I’m assured the school build- rietsham, as a conservation area. defined as “an area of architectural Garden date ings will be replaced with quality The street (pictured) was a main or historic interest, the character THE garden at Arnold Yoke in eco-friendly housing and much of road through the village, connect- and appearance of which it is de- Leeds will open from 5-8pm on the original material will be re- ing Maidstone and Ashford, with a sirable to preserve or enhance”. June 26 as part of the National Gar- used on the builds to ensure they mix of dwellings, trades and com- The draft plans are available to dens Scheme. complement the area.” mercial buildings view on the MBC website. Com- Entry is £10 and includes a glass But comments posted on the vil- Today, the street is cut off from ments should be sent to the con- of prosecco or a soft drink. lage Facebook page include: “My the rest of the village by the A20, servation team at MBC.

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32 News downsmail.co.uk NHS thanks NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Call for the Commissioning Group (CCG) Village concern over marked national Patient Participa- tion Group Awareness Week (May 31-June 6) by thanking all patient representatives who helped shape homes on school site health services. . It continues to encourage mem- bers of the public to contact their HARRIETSHAM residents have GP practice to find out how they voiced disappointment at plans can join their own PPG. submitted to Maidstone Borough In the last 12 months, public par- Council for development of the ticipation has helped to design end old school buildings on the A20. of life care, dementia services, and Under plans submitted by MK ‘long Covid’ support. Projects London Ltd, the derelict Set in Stone buildings will be replaced by five homes, two with five bedrooms, New memorials in Pop in to cafe and three with four bedrooms. All granite, marble and A MONTHLY pop-up café is com- properties will have a garage. ing to Kingswood. Some residents complained on ancestors must be turning in their but retains a mix of buildings, from stone. Renovations, The event will run at the village social media about the plans. graves. Absolutely shocking.” grand Georgian dwellings to the cleaning and shop forecourt in Charleswood Av- But Harrietsham parish council- Another said: “My old school. more humble almshouses, dating enue from 10.30am to 12.30pm on lor Eddie Powell said: “It’s excel- So, so sad.” from the 17th century. additional inscriptions. August 8 and September 2. lent that something is finally being Plans have been drawn up by Councils have a legal obligation done with the site. MBC to designate East Street, Har- to designate conservation areas, Find us at: “I’m assured the school build- rietsham, as a conservation area. defined as “an area of architectural 24 High Street, Garden date ings will be replaced with quality The street (pictured) was a main or historic interest, the character THE garden at Arnold Yoke in eco-friendly housing and much of road through the village, connect- and appearance of which it is de- Sittingbourne, Kent Leeds will open from 5-8pm on the original material will be re- ing Maidstone and Ashford, with a sirable to preserve or enhance”. ME10 4PD June 26 as part of the National Gar- used on the builds to ensure they mix of dwellings, trades and com- The draft plans are available to Tel; 01795 410800 dens Scheme. complement the area.” mercial buildings view on the MBC website. Com- Entry is £10 and includes a glass But comments posted on the vil- Today, the street is cut off from ments should be sent to the con- 66 High Street, of prosecco or a soft drink. lage Facebook page include: “My the rest of the village by the A20, servation team at MBC. Maidstone, Kent ME14 1SR Tel; 01622 679888

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33 News downsmail.co.uk Charity walk THE North Downs sponsored walk for Cancer Research UK will Prep school to close as take place Sunday, August 8. There will be three, six and nine- mile routes, all starting and finish- ing at Glebe Field, Harrietsham. COVID hits numbers The event is organised by the Ro- tary Club of the Weald of Kent. Half of any sponsorship raised will SHERNOLD Preparatory School go to charities of the walkers’ in Maidstone is to close after 86 choice. Register online at years because of falling numbers. www.wealdofkentrotary.org.uk. Parents and staff were told ear- lier this month of the decision to Driving ban shut at the end of the summer term, with the expected loss of 28 A MAIDSTONE man who was staff members. three times the legal limit for alco- The fee-paying, co-educational hol has been banned from driving. Head girl Fran school in Hill Place, Queens Av- William Ward (74), of The Priory, Brickwood and enue, has been a family-run busi- Maidstone, gave a reading of Shernold School, left ness since 1986. 105mg of alcohol in 100ml of Set up in 1935, it was rated ‘good breath. The legal limit is 35mg. drift away, it could not rely on state Brickwood, wrote last year as she ‘at its last Ofsted inspection in 2018. He was disqualified for 23 funding to survive. entered year six: "I am proud of my months and fined £450, with a sur- Coronavirus hit the business's Mrs Waite added: "We will do school, we are like one big family charge of £45 and costs of £85. viability but the school, which everything possible to help find and I have made so many friend- catered for pupils aged three to 11, school places for the children and ships. was 60 short of its 160 capacity try to enable the transition to their “As I start my final year at Sher- Service thanks three years ago. new schools to run as smoothly as nold, and although this year may ST Peter & St Paul’s Church in Proprietor Valerie Waite said: achievable. be different, I look forward to car- Headcorn will host a service on "The reason for the school's closure "Our doors will close to our rying out my responsibilities Sunday, July 4, encouraging peo- is that it requires long-term invest- pupils at the end of July. This will whenever possible. ple to celebrate the sense of com- ment to secure its future." be an incredibly sad day for us all, "Most of all, I look forward to munity brought about during the The pandemic hit the school and one we never envisaged." making memories, which I will re- COVID-19 pandemic. hard, and as families started to Shernold's final head girl, Fran member forever."

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Eve Martin Vera and Roy old boys with great fondness, and was Obituaries Charity walk became well known always proud to hear of their achievements. THE North Downs sponsored HEADCORN’S Eve Martin spent most of for their long “Bryan was a larger-than-life character walk for Cancer Research UK will Prep school to close as her life locally, after having been evacuated involvement in St who left an impression on so many people. from London during the war. take place Sunday, August 8. Margaret’s Church, He will be greatly missed, but he will live She excelled at There will be three, six and nine- Barming, and Vera’s on by being remembered by all of us.” school, but her mile routes, all starting and finish- work in the area. She Some former pupils and colleagues have ambitions for a ing at Glebe Field, Harrietsham. was mother to shared memories of the inspirational head, COVID hits numbers creative career were Elizabeth, Caroline, who also taught religious studies. The event is organised by the Ro- stied when her tary Club of the Weald of Kent. Margaret, and Keith Groom posted: “Mr Short was an mother fell ill. Eve Half of any sponsorship raised will SHERNOLD Preparatory School Victoria. exemplary headmaster. Forever in my was only 18 when her Margaret said: “Our mum was a very memory will be his sound moral character, go to charities of the walkers’ in Maidstone is to close after 86 mother died of cancer. choice. Register online at years because of falling numbers. kind, loving and family-oriented person. caring and calm manner and his strong Her rst marriage, Both mum and dad were involved in the presence around the school.” www.wealdofkentrotary.org.uk. Parents and staff were told ear- to Colin, produced church and were volunteers for the Former colleague Dr Reginald Silverside lier this month of the decision to children James and Maidstone Hospital League of Friends. said: “Under his leadership the school was shut at the end of the summer Driving ban Judith. After they “Because Mum also worked as a a haven of civilised behaviour and a term, with the expected loss of 28 A MAIDSTONE man who was separated, Eve worked in the Castle pub in lunchtime supervisor at Barming Primary pleasure to work in. He was a kind and staff members. Eynesford where she met jeweller and three times the legal limit for alco- School, lots of people locally knew her from decent man.” The fee-paying, co-educational watchmaker, Alan Martin. hol has been banned from driving. Head girl Fran school and then got married in St school in Hill Place, Queens Av- The couple managed the pub together William Ward (74), of The Priory, Brickwood and Margaret’s, where our father played the enue, has been a family-run busi- and married in 1968 – daughter Elizabeth Maidstone, gave a reading of Shernold School, left organ for them. Michael Brown ness since 1986. was born soon after. The family moved to 105mg of alcohol in 100ml of “The League of Friends at the hospital MICHAEL Brown (89) lived in Maidstone Set up in 1935, it was rated ‘good Headcorn, where Alan ran a shop and Eve breath. The legal limit is 35mg. drift away, it could not rely on state Brickwood, wrote last year as she was really important to Mum; she worked all his life in Maidstone and in Shepway for ‘at its last Ofsted inspection in 2018. bred cats and ran a cattery. She also ran dog He was disqualified for 23 funding to survive. entered year six: "I am proud of my in the shop and café, and took the trolley about 50 years. Coronavirus hit the business's Mrs Waite added: "We will do school, we are like one big family obedience classes and was a Girl Guide around the wards. There has been a months and fined £450, with a sur- leader. His childhood home was in Barming. charge of £45 and costs of £85. viability but the school, which everything possible to help find and I have made so many friend- collection for them in her memory.” Michael did catered for pupils aged three to 11, school places for the children and ships. In 1977, Eve and Alan became parents to Vera’s funeral took place on her 90th youngest daughter, Susannah. Eve national service in the was 60 short of its 160 capacity try to enable the transition to their “As I start my final year at Sher- birthday. She was widowed 10 years ago, Royal Electrical and Service thanks three years ago. new schools to run as smoothly as nold, and although this year may expanded her business activities, via Alan’s after almost 60 years of marriage. She leaves watchmakers and jewellers shop, into Mechanical Engineers ST Peter & St Paul’s Church in Proprietor Valerie Waite said: achievable. be different, I look forward to car- her daughters, grandchildren Sarah and and was posted to Headcorn will host a service on "The reason for the school's closure "Our doors will close to our rying out my responsibilities selling trophies but had to scale her work Helen and great-grandchildren Holly, down when Alan had a stroke. Suez. He returned to a Sunday, July 4, encouraging peo- is that it requires long-term invest- pupils at the end of July. This will whenever possible. Oscar, Cameron and Emily. Eve cared for Alan for 21 years, until his career in clerical work ple to celebrate the sense of com- ment to secure its future." be an incredibly sad day for us all, "Most of all, I look forward to death in 2011. By this point she was also a with employment at munity brought about during the The pandemic hit the school and one we never envisaged." making memories, which I will re- hands-on grandmother to seven Maidstone and COVID-19 pandemic. hard, and as families started to Shernold's final head girl, Fran member forever." Bryan Short grandchildren, and worked with children District Buses, Wallis suffering from a fear of dogs. TRIBUTES have been paid to Bryan Short, a builders and Bridger Eve remained a well-known and busy well-respected headmaster noted for his Asphalt. gure in local life until lockdown in 2020. determination to help students reach their He married Brenda in 1960 and the Last summer, she was diagnosed with highest academic couple were parents to Heather, who died terminal cancer, but typically outlived her potential. at a young age, then Colin and Jane. predicted remaining time. Bryan spent 30 Jane said: “Our father really enjoyed time She leaves her children and years at Borden with his family, we often went out walking grandchildren. Grammar School in the dog in the countryside, days out to the Sittingbourne, seaside, or Navy Days at Chatham. making him the “He was a popular man, and many will Vera Mary Burgess longest serving head remember him as a Vernons pools collector in the school’s history. in during the 70s and 80s. He was VERA Mary Burgess lived in Barming from An online gentle and kind-hearted, with a good sense 1964, settling locally with husband Roy, remembrance page of humour. He took a lot of pride in his p34 who worked as an accountant. notes: “He made garden and was an avid stamp collector.” The couple moved from Berkshire when many lifelong friends at Borden and was Michael lost his wife in 2004. He leaves Roy’s job was relocated to Aylesford. Vera held in the highest esteem by students, children Colin and Jane, grandchildren (nee Vera Sumpter) was born and brought teachers and parents. Damien, Bradley, Alex, Lewis and Emma up in Newbury. “Even after retiring, he would speak of and two great-grandchildren.

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stopped since she visited the site. Play equipment Discovery Timber had Barming Parish Councils Playing eld Cllr China reported that the advised that they would incur Re-opening halls Members agreed as the Loose Lions were due to start using the unexpected costs (£960) due to the length Government road map for lockdown eld again. They had asked for of time taken from their original easing stated that indoor hospitality permission to install ood lighting and quotation to an order/installation and could re-open on May 17, the parish he asked members for their views. It was asked if the council would be willing to council would look to re-open halls on agreed that Cllr China would liaise with share the costs. It was agreed to make a that date. The clerk would send out Loose Lions about the anticipated hours contribution of £200, on the condition letters informing hirers of the return of use for the lighting. that the installation goes ahead on the date, arrange deep cleans of both Street lighting Cllr China said the build- agreed date. premises and request risk assessments to out light had been replaced, and a shield Litter pick It was noted that quite a few be sent in from each group. Cllr Manser installed on the lights at Brogden people were collecting litter in the parish. would buy washing-up liquid, wipes and Crescent. However, the clerk said the borough bin liners, while the clerk will look for council was not currently providing soap dispensers and Cllr Gooch would equipment for organised litter picks. It order signage to be printed by Hadlums. Otham was agreed that, by the time restrictions Face-to-face meetings The council were eased, it would be too late for a needed to be prepared for the return to Church Road development The meeting heard footpath KM86 would be retained litter pick, so it was agreed not to face-to-face meetings in May. Cllr Gooch proceed. However, a note would be proposed to adopt the risk assessment but there would be a separate cycle path along the northern end of the site. A added to social media thanking residents document,which was seconded by Cllr who had collected litter and encouraging Vizzard. Cllr Gooch asked members for pedestrian route and a separate cycle route would also be provided for the everyone to litter pick in their own areas. suggestions about queuing signage. Cllr Vizzard suggested small crosses or southern part of the site into Woolley something similar to be painted on the Road to provide a quick route to Senacre West Farleigh oor leading to the entrance door. School. A ramp would be put next to the Allotments Cllr Doe had approached steps leading to The Beams. A gure of Donation A late request had been three companies for the purchase of the £100k S106 money would be allocated to received from Pukka Ponies. It was plants but they all required a minimum improve the network on a section of explained that, when setting this year’s order of £500. He would continue to look Deringwood Drive/where the site budget, a sum of £1,600 had been set for a suitable supplier. connects to Church Road. It is aside for donations. However, due to the Parish trees Cllr Doe regularly checked understood that all the conditions have pandemic, a decision had been made in trees around the parish. He thought the to be delivered pre-occupation. January to use money from general parish council should seek advice on the Site traffic Further to a query about site reserves to support the groups with a redwood by Cedar Drive on Tonbridge traffic entering Church Road when larger donation. To date, a total of £2,500 Rd. The tree has several woodpecker construction begins, Cllr Cooke said had been awarded. It was noted that holes in it and has quite a lot of weight at there would need to be a development/ Pukka Ponies had arranged for Father the top. Cllr Gooch would give the clerk construction plan which would have to Christmas to visit the children of the the email address of the MBC tree be signed off by KCC/MBC. Cllr Cooke village on horseback before Christmas, as department. said there was no easy way to access the many booked visits (at garden centres Speed watch Cllr Williams had been site but pointed out that the etc) had been cancelled due to COVID- contacted by a willing volunteer for the Wood site was previously accessed from 19. It was agreed to make a donation of speed watch project. The clerk will send White Horse Lane, via the Sutton Road, £200 to support their work in the village. the police contact information to Cllr and there were very few houses that will Village event Cllr Swan said it would be Williams and the contact details for any be affected. Cllr Gray pointed out that nice to hold an event once restrictions had other volunteers. Cllr Vizzard the road was less than 3m wide between lifted to give residents the opportunity to volunteered to complete the training so White Horse Lane and the development, socialise with each other again. One idea that he could help out if necessary. so it would not be a safe route. was a picnic or barbecue on the village Donation requests It was agreed to make green, in conjunction with the Good a donation of £100 to the Air Ambulance. Intent pub. There was brief discussion Leeds Otham Glebe The council thanked Cllrs about whether this was a large enough Newton and Gray for their swift action area, and it was agreed alternative HGVs Cllr Gary Cooke said the when operatives arrived to remove outdoor spaces should be investigated ‘Unsuitable for HGV signs ‘had been saplings. Cllr Newton has arranged for a further over the coming months. installed as agreed. Cllr Cooke reiterated six-month tree preservation order for the Litter picking This had been a successful that the 17 tonne weight limit signs were site. scheme with volunteers meeting up once a mandatory statutory limit, not advisory Village green car park Cllrs Hipkins, a month to litter pick the roads around and were enforceable, contrary to the Gray and the clerk met with three the village. A car is used to protect belief of the PCSO. Cllr China said the contractors with a view to obtaining volunteers, as many of the roads do not PCSO had not yet claried her quotations. The approach road would go have pavements. All involved take part understanding regarding the weight between two trees and permission would at their own risk and MBC had always restriction signage. be needed to remove two boughs. taken away the black bags afterwards. Flytipping Borough councillor Gill Fort Memorial bench Another request for a This has now been withdrawn and said rubbish at Penfold Hill and Old Mill memorial bench on the green had been volunteers have been told that, by using Lane had been cleared and she had asked received. It was agreed that a protocol a vehicle to shield volunteers, they could MBC to undertake a litter pick in the was required to regulate requests. It was be blocking the lanes. If the practice area. subsequently agreed that an existing continued MBC would report the group Highways Cllr Springford spoke about bench could be considered for to KCC for blocking a highway. It was the signage in Forge Lane when Back replacement. made very clear that, at no time, are any Street was closed. He said the signage Grass cutting It was noted that Mr of the roads blocked to through traffic stayed in place long after the road was Waring does a really good job. On the and this threat was extremely re-opened. He had removed the signage basis of a minimal increase for the disappointing. The clerk was asked to himself and KCC had collected it. forthcoming year, it was agreed to ask contact the borough councillors to nd Abbey Farm Cllr Fort said rubbish was Mr Waring to continue with the grass out what can be done to support this being burnt at Abbey Farm. It had cutting. scheme.

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43 News downsmail.co.uk Thug assaulted three officers A MAN who violently attacked three police officers and abused hospital staff has been jailed. Darren Selwood (37), of Clive then spat in the eye of another. said: “Our officers work tirelessly House, Royal British Legion Vil- “A doctor who arrived to treat to protect the public from harm lage, Aylesford, hit one officer so Selwood was also subjected to a and should be able to go about hard across the head that blood torrent of racial abuse.” their duties without being as- sprayed over a nearby van. He was later charged with three saulted, spat on and sprayed with He also urinated over an officer assaults on emergency workers, a blood and urine. and headbutted another one twice. racially-aggravated public order “Similarly, hard working medi- An ambulance was called and offence and using threatening or cal staff should be confident to the victim was taken to a local hos- abusive words or behaviour. tend the injured and vulnerable pital for medical attention. Selwood, pictured, appeared be- without being subjected to racist Police were called to a distur- fore Medway Magistrates’ Court abuse and threats. bance in Bull Lane, Eccles, at where he pleaded guilty and was “The person arrested on this oc- around 11.30pm on May 7 . sentenced to one year and 25 casion has shown himself to be a A Kent Police spokesman said: weeks in prison. This included the violent and odious individual and “Once at hospital, Selwood at- activation of a suspended sentence I am pleased that within two days tempted to headbutt a constable relating to similar offences. of being detained he is starting a who was supervising him and Chief Inspector Omid Changizi prison sentence.” Team’s work expands Police spat at in town THE work of Maidstone Commu- updated for approval by Maid- TWO men have been charged man was seen shouting racial nity Safety Partnership (MCSP) is stone Borough Council (MBC). with spitting at police officers abuse near Fremlin Walk. being widened to the disruption of The partnership also aims to in- in Maidstone. The man is said to have a criminal gang involved in drugs crease awareness of local domestic The officers were targeted threatened members of the and money-laundering. abuse and to support and protect and assaulted during the space public who challenged him One operation was closed down families and individuals at high of a few hours on May 27. and was arrested nearby. recently, it claims. risk. There has been a year-on-year A man who was arrested for The suspect then “spat on The MCSP also aims to work to increase of recorded incidents, in- reportedly assaulting a woman both a female officer’s neck disrupt illegal puppy farms and cluding rape and sexual violence. in Brunwick Street, became ag- and at a member of the public”. unlicensed breeders. There is also a drive to keep chil- gressive in custody and injured John Devall (37), of no fixed The protection team recently put dren and young people safe, espe- a constable's arm. address, was charged with as- a stop to an illicit operation be- cially those living in abusive and The suspect was then taken sault, assault by beating of an lieved to have a Kent network. violent households affected by to hospital, where it is alleged emergency worker and two MCSP’s plan is currently being drugs and alcohol. he spat in an officer’s eye. counts of racially-aggravated Callum Geary (25), of Dick- harassment. ens Road, was later charged Both suspects were re- Girl injured in road accident with two counts of assault by manded in custody and ap- A TEENAGE girl was left injured after being hit by a car on the A228 beating of an emergency peared before Maidstone Malling Road in Mereworth near the junction with Kent Street, at around worker and two further as- Magistrates’ Court on May 29. 3.45pm on May 21. saults. He was also charged Mr Devall was bailed to return A Kent Police spokesman said: “Officers and South East Coast Ambu- with theft and criminal damage. to the court on June 7 and Mr lance Service attended, and a teenage girl was treated for injuries and During the same evening, a Geary was bailed until July 5. was then taken to a local hospital.”

Crime reports A MERCEDES C220 D was broken into in Allington Way, Allington. The steering wheel and centre console were stolen and Neighbourhood Watch extensive internal damage was caused. A Citroen C3 was damaged in Ashford Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Road, Bearsted. Food was stolen in a break-in at a house bourne Road, Maidstone. A Volkswagen Golf was broken into in in Caring Lane, Thurnham. The front glass of a store in Hart Street, Suffolk Road, Shepway, and a radio and A group of people stole items from a Fant, was damaged. built-in screen were stolen. building merchants in St Peter’s Street, Somebody damaged a Ford Ka in a Someone damaged items in a restaurant Maidstone. shopping car park in Sittingbourne Road, in Earl Street, Maidstone, after the propri- A fire door was damaged in a failed at- Maidstone. etor refused to serve them. tempt to break into the leisure centre in Three young people damaged a fence by A white KTM motorbike, registration Willow Way, Shepway. kicking a ball against it in Fant Lane, Fant. LO19*** was stolen in Upper Street, Leeds. A phone was stolen from a bag in Clock A window was smashed when a stone Three young people tried to steal a House Rise, Coxheath. was thrown at it in Robins Close, Lenham. gnome from a property in The Tail Race, Thieves stole fuel from a truck in a layby A watch was stolen from a shopper in a Tovil. in Detling Hill, Thurnham. store in St Peter’s Street, Maidstone. A white Ford Transit van, registration A man entered a shop and stole a mobile A caravan window was smashed in Pye LT03***, was stolen from a driveway at a phone after distracting staff in Sitting- Corner, . farm in Darman Lane, Yalding. 44 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Thug assaulted three officers Come the Maidstone revolution Comment a I WELCOME the revolution A MAN who violently attacked three police officers and abused hospital staff has been jailed. signposted by the new Maidstone Pedal power Borough Council (MBC) administration MailMarks a.THE new proposals to provide hire Darren Selwood (37), of Clive then spat in the eye of another. said: “Our officers work tirelessly on how the borough is to be run. bicycles for the last mile or so to and House, Royal British Legion Vil- “A doctor who arrived to treat to protect the public from harm With their stunning victory in the May DENNIS FOWLE President from Maidstone town centre and lage, Aylesford, hit one officer so Selwood was also subjected to a and should be able to go about elections, the Tories quickly dictated to [email protected] separately to establish a range of cycle hard across the head that blood torrent of racial abuse.” their duties without being as- officers that elected councillors would be parks across the borough are exciting and sprayed over a nearby van. He was later charged with three saulted, spat on and sprayed with at the heart of all major decision making. hopefully practical. They appear to have He also urinated over an officer assaults on emergency workers, a blood and urine. They hope to ensure this partly by grim fears expressed in a public support from the cycling community. and headbutted another one twice. racially-aggravated public order “Similarly, hard working medi- returning to the cabinet governing consultation are correct. Initially, Maidstone Borough Council An ambulance was called and offence and using threatening or cal staff should be confident to system, rather than cross-party council The balance of Maidstone opinion was included hire of power scooters in the the victim was taken to a local hos- abusive words or behaviour. tend the injured and vulnerable committees. This brings cabinet member against every scheme ,with views they reports, but this is on hold while the pital for medical attention. Selwood, pictured, appeared be- without being subjected to racist control and much greater speed of would not achieve purpose, would add to Government considers safety issues. Police were called to a distur- fore Medway Magistrates’ Court abuse and threats. member decision-making. dangers rather than diminish or add to Having seen lm of crazy use of these bance in Bull Lane, Eccles, at where he pleaded guilty and was “The person arrested on this oc- I was disappointed when the Lib Dems inconvenience of road users and residents. scooters, at times among endangered around 11.30pm on May 7 . sentenced to one year and 25 casion has shown himself to be a went back to the old committee system. The Kent and Maidstone Joint pedestrians, I cannot see them getting a A Kent Police spokesman said: weeks in prison. This included the violent and odious individual and I never liked the drive towards town Transportation Board was not Government tick. “Once at hospital, Selwood at- activation of a suspended sentence I am pleased that within two days centre “modal shift” (public transport, enthusiastic, but the lead officer said he I welcome the wider use of bicycles, but tempted to headbutt a constable relating to similar offences. of being detained he is starting a cycling and walking), when most need to would be putting decisions before the believe planners must aim to keep who was supervising him and Chief Inspector Omid Changizi prison sentence.” drive their cars, especially in villages. KCC cabinet member for highways. pedestrians and cyclists well apart. They The Tories are banning that phrase. One driving force was that KCC has a are not a safe mix. We had a worrying They do not see it as a solution to over- multi-million pound funding pot that experience when walking two young development or a substitute for better could disappear if not used. Seems it will grandchildren along the river path Team’s work expands roads. Would they ever have approved now be used – for good or bad. between East Farleigh and the town Police spat at in town THE work of Maidstone Commu- updated for approval by Maid- the suddenly-built cycle lane in King KCC has come in for massive criticism centre. Fortunately, we were at the rear TWO men have been charged man was seen shouting racial nity Safety Partnership (MCSP) is stone Borough Council (MBC). Street, now removed at great expense? as the highways authority for lack of with the children in front. with spitting at police officers abuse near Fremlin Walk. being widened to the disruption of The partnership also aims to in- We will also see an improvement in the investment on Maidstone roads network A mature lady was, unbeknown to us, in Maidstone. The man is said to have a criminal gang involved in drugs crease awareness of local domestic Maidstone street scene, with more over the years and this was probably cycling behind us at some speed and had The officers were targeted threatened members of the and money-laundering. abuse and to support and protect investment in cleaning and battling y- another factor in latest decisions. Now to brake hard to avoid us. She was and assaulted during the space public who challenged him One operation was closed down families and individuals at high tipping, graffiti and littering. Other the Tories control MBCas well as KCC, offended when I said she should at least of a few hours on May 27. and was arrested nearby. recently, it claims. risk. There has been a year-on-year targets are street drinking, antisocial perhaps harmonious liaison and have had a cycle bell to warn pedestrians A man who was arrested for The suspect then “spat on The MCSP also aims to work to increase of recorded incidents, in- behaviour and loitering in the town decision-making will improve. and slowed right down with obstructions reportedly assaulting a woman both a female officer’s neck disrupt illegal puppy farms and cluding rape and sexual violence. centre and Brenchley Gardens. Highest prole of the schemes involves she faced. I have watched many scenes in Brunwick Street, became ag- and at a member of the public”. unlicensed breeders. There is also a drive to keep chil- How the council communicates with demolishing the Wheatsheaf pub and like this in the town centre. gressive in custody and injured John Devall (37), of no fixed The protection team recently put dren and young people safe, espe- us will also come under the spotlight, creating a system at the junction of a constable's arm. address, was charged with as- a stop to an illicit operation be- cially those living in abusive and and I am pleased to see the end of the Sutton Road and Loose Road, closing Thanks, Clive COUNCILLOR Clive English The suspect was then taken sault, assault by beating of an lieved to have a Kent network. violent households affected by expensive council magazine delivered to Cranborne Avenue. Other parts of the a (LibDem) seems to have been chairman to hospital, where it is alleged emergency worker and two MCSP’s plan is currently being drugs and alcohol. homes by Royal Mail. It is just one way package include enlarging the he spat in an officer’s eye. counts of racially-aggravated the Tories want to spend our money Coldharbour M20 J5 roundabout and of Maidstone Borough Council Planning Callum Geary (25), of Dick- harassment. better, hopefully controlling growth in removing traffic lights; changes at the Committee for ever. It’s a tough and very ens Road, was later charged Both suspects were re- Girl injured in road accident council tax. It seems we are in for a very Loose Road/Cripple Street junction; the busy role requiring much knowledge of with two counts of assault by manded in custody and ap- lively and interesting year. Loose Road junction with Armstrong planning law and niceties – and powerful A TEENAGE girl was left injured after being hit by a car on the A228 beating of an emergency peared before Maidstone Road down to Sheals Crescent; Ashford chairmanship skills to make sure Malling Road in Mereworth near the junction with Kent Street, at around worker and two further as- Magistrates’ Court on May 29. Roads to anger Road/Willington Street, Bearsted; and meetings do not go on for ever. We owe 3.45pm on May 21. saults. He was also charged Mr Devall was bailed to return r IN THE face of powerful local Sutton Road/Willington Street junction. him our thanks for a job which has come A Kent Police spokesman said: “Officers and South East Coast Ambu- with theft and criminal damage. to the court on June 7 and Mr opposition, the Maidstone Integrated We must hope KCC highways to an end now Conservatives have taken lance Service attended, and a teenage girl was treated for injuries and During the same evening, a Geary was bailed until July 5. Transport Package of about six road specialists have got it right. Maidstone over council control from the LibDems. was then taken to a local hospital.” schemes is set to go ahead. Woe betide needs to see traffic owing much more So, it is best wishes to his successor – Cllr Kent County Council (KCC) if residents’ smoothly . Denis Spooner (Con, Bearsted).

which was blocked by another huge lorry. use this already inadequate road.

Crime reports A MERCEDES C220 D was broken into in Danger roads no surprise Allington Way, Allington. The steering I turned round and made my way back Furthermore, we have the ever- I WAS interested to read the article Rural to Chartway Street where I spent another expanding farming industries using wheel and centre console were stolen and Neighbourhood Watch Maidstone road on UK “danger” listing extensive internal damage was caused. 20 minutes stuck behind a lorry trying to increasingly bigger tractors that thunder (edition 296). get past an equally large tractor. A Citroen C3 was damaged in Ashford Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police along and do not care if they run cars into It did not surprise me to learn that the Eventually, I just went home and we had hedgerows and potholes. Road, Bearsted. A229 and A249 were in the country’s top Food was stolen in a break-in at a house to abandon our walk. When is sanity going to prevail and bourne Road, Maidstone. A Volkswagen Golf was broken into in 10 most “hazardous highways”. in Caring Lane, Thurnham. We have recently heard that Warmlake some understanding of how the The front glass of a store in Hart Street, Suffolk Road, Shepway, and a radio and I was just surprised that the A274 was A group of people stole items from a Garden Centre is going to close and they infrastructure in this area is not t for Fant, was damaged. built-in screen were stolen. not there right alongside them. building merchants in St Peter’s Street, want to build yet more houses. purpose? How many lives have to be lost, Somebody damaged a Ford Ka in a Someone damaged items in a restaurant On June 3, around mid-morning, I Maidstone. shopping car park in Sittingbourne Road, in Earl Street, Maidstone, after the propri- We, in Kingswood, are increasingly cars damaged, people isolated before steps attempted to travel about three miles from A fire door was damaged in a failed at- Maidstone. etor refused to serve them. being cut off from getting anywhere due to are taken to nd solutions? my home in Kingswood to Langley, to blocked roads. When we do get out, we tempt to break into the leisure centre in Three young people damaged a fence by A white KTM motorbike, registration Kay Kilgallon, via email walk with a friend. Willow Way, Shepway. kicking a ball against it in Fant Lane, Fant. LO19*** was stolen in Upper Street, Leeds. take our lives in our hands at junctions The road through Leeds (B2163) was A phone was stolen from a bag in Clock A window was smashed when a stone Three young people tried to steal a such as the crossroads at Warmlake and House Rise, Coxheath. was thrown at it in Robins Close, Lenham. gnome from a property in The Tail Race, closed and barricaded. I tried to get to then a bit further down at Five Wents (or Killing is hostel warning Thieves stole fuel from a truck in a layby A watch was stolen from a shopper in a Tovil. Langley rst via Horseshoes Lane, but that by large lorries in Broomeld or in Detling Hill, Thurnham. store in St Peter’s Street, Maidstone. A white Ford Transit van, registration was blocked by two large vehicles that roads trying to get to the A274). THE appalling unprovoked killing of an A man entered a shop and stole a mobile A caravan window was smashed in Pye LT03***, was stolen from a driveway at a could not get past each other, and then via Yet we hear constant news of even more innocent Maidstone man (Downs Mail, phone after distracting staff in Sitting- Corner, Ulcombe. farm in Darman Lane, Yalding. New Road by Rumwood Garden Centre, homes in the planning that will need to June 3) must serve as a severe lesson for

45 downsmail.co.uk

Comment the management of Fleming House bail As a sign-off, if you walk through Leeds construction company should act as a hostel, situated worryingly close to the Castle on the public footpaths, there are warning to all those who want to embark heart of Maidstone in residential dozens, if not hundreds, of these beautiful on expensive construction projects. Tonbridge Road. and wonderous little birds, feeding on the The answer is simple and that is to get Maidstone councillor Jonathan Purle, a wing around the moat. the constructor’s bank to issue a friend of passer-by victim Jason Orwin K Crossan, via email performance bond in favour of the (55), who was punched unconscious in customer. This is common practice, so that Tonbridge Road, rightly questions why Too cold for visitors? if the builder goes under, the customer can Lance Colston (33) was released from I READ your recent article on the lack of call in the bond from the bank. That way, prison and is now sentenced to just seven swallows this year. Regrettably, I too, have the project can continue with a new years for manslaughter. seen few this year. contractor. This is far from the rst incident in Forty-odd years ago, as a child in rural This is especially important if the Tonbridge Road linked to the hostel. Kent, I remember my father remarking on customer is borrowing from their bank to Residents of this part of Maidstone must seeing a swallow in mid-March. This year, fund the project and a bank-to-bank bond be very fearful. The authorities must I have heard that they were not turning up is a common procedure. I used to issue, respect these fears and question whether until late April in some places because that and call in, many such bonds during my potentially violent criminals should be banking career. placed in this hostel. month had been so cold. Equally, there have been reports of Ian Stuart, Weavering I believe isolated buildings were previously selected for accommodating swallows being spotted in winter around such criminals, obviously in attempts to northern France because the winters are Fears for fruit crops safeguard the public. Rightly, this hostel sometimes so mild, there is little reason to was recently refused permission to migrate to Africa. I ECHO the worries of farmers who fear increase the number of offenders on bail. It would be a fair guess that around erce late frosts have caused immense Safety of neighbouring residents is here, large-scale building work would be damage to the local fruit crops (Downs obviously the top priority and this hostel putting these birds off staying around for Mail June 3-16). is currently failing. It is a matter of deep long. I have three varieties of apple tree in my local concern which must be addressed Who can blame them? garden which normally fruit heavily, urgently. B McGann, via email helping me to supply family and friends. James George, Maidstone But the early signs are very poor and Flock has returned many apple dishes look like they will be off the menu this year. RE the swallow story in your recent I am more hopeful for plums, pears and Some political hope edition. I am happy to inform you that I soft fruit like raspberries and currants. have spotted a group of about 18 swifts in FOR those left dismayed by the turn of Jenny Moss, Maidstone ME15, near Tovil. political events in this benighted town perhaps a message of solace, good cheer I have seen the same amount return even, is to be found in what happened in each year for the ve years I have lived BBC brainwashing us our neighbour Royal Tunbridge Wells. here. The River Medway is a short walk It was the only area of Kent to vote away and has natural banks in the Tovil MARTIN Bashir, the reporter and Remain in 2016s referendum, and where area, so I assume good nesting material. presenter of the Princess Diana interview the Conservatives – wait for it – lost I have always tried to work out where programme 25 years ago, only played a overall control of the council. they nest, to no avail – possibly in an old part of the BBC management that was and Clearly, enough disaffected Tories house at the end of King Edward Road. It still is trying to brainwash us all into simply could not stomach the thought of is a joy to watch them feeding, calling and believing in its doctrine and bringing supporting an English nationalist party ying each evening, and then to see the down those who don't agree with them. led by a proven liar. Denitely a step too juveniles before they leave. But the monarchy has emerged stronger far. Strange days. Three cheers for Lynn Romero, via email than ever. Tunbridge Wells. I, like many others, have had enough of K G Banks the BBC ramming its agenda down our throats and treating us like children. We Think before building simply don’t watch or listen any more, Building deters swallows which is a pity as it was once such a RE your article on the future of Warmlake wonderful institution. I WAS intrigued by your article about Nursery, which is earmarked for housing Alan Wallace, via email swallows not being around in such development, I’d just like to point out that numbers this year. a lot of people walk to Warmlake for Having just returned from the West supplies. Country, I can report no issues with Scouts need your help The nearest other garden centre is miles THE past year has been so tough for so populations of swallows, swifts or away from the Warmlake crossroads martins. But I do know that these birds, many. It has also shown how important it which is very bad for accidents. I do not which travel thousands of miles from their is to work together to help those in need. believe it’s in the community interest to homes in Africa, are very sensitive to Scouts plays a fundamental role in the continue these applications for new habitat disruption. lives of thousands of young people and houses in Sutton Valence. The amount of building works going on our goal is to build back our membership I now dice with death to get out onto the in the rural areas around Maidstone must by welcoming new volunteers. main road. I feel there is a lot to be looked put them off. There were plenty around As an adult volunteer you can help us at before even considering new last year during lockdown and even the continue to make an incredible developments in the Sutton Valence area. cuckoos came back. contribution towards helping young A friend who opens up her garage door Janet Sladden, via email people learn new skills for life. You’ll gain to ve or six pairs which nest in the roof new skills, new friends and be part of every year has not seen a single bird in empowering young people for their future. 2021. After scratching her head for a Bond to protect projects For more information about moment, she realised that the building of THE story in a recent edition of your volunteering with Kent Scouts contact our houses nearby may, in fact, be putting off newspaper about the Scout group that has County Office via [email protected]. her visitors. lost £50K due to the demise of a Bear Grylls, Chief Scout

46 downsmail.co.uk Opinion Sharing support for young immigrants OCAL GP Dr Anthony Fincham pulls Lno punches in his withering criticism AT THE time of writing, 303 unaccompanied of the British Medical Association asylum-seeking children (UASC) have been (BMA), particularly on the topic of face- taken into the care of Kent County Council By Helen to-face consultations. Thundering in Her (KCC) since New Year’s Day 2021. There were Grant Majesty’s Daily Telegraph, Dr Fincham 115 young people in May alone, the largest MP for says: “The sad truth is the BMA has monthly number since October 2015. become a left-wing union no longer Last summer, similarly high numbers led to Maidstone & the representative of the vast majority of KCC having to suspend delivery of its Weald medical practitioners. In the process, the statutory duty to care for UASC. best interests of patients have been On June 14, 10 months on, service wholly neglected.” Ouch! suspension has been invoked again and to Scheme (NTS), but it is voluntary and not OUNCIL leader and businessman add to the challenge, the prole of arrivals has favoured, it would seem, by authorities who David Burton gets away from the become more vulnerable and complex; C have no port of entry. increasing numbers of under 16-year-olds stresses of life and high office tending to a The NTS needs to be mandatory and KCC ock of 20 sheep at his smallholding near (with greater need for foster care needs support in trying to redress the accommodation), more young girls and more Headcorn. He tells me: “It’s very disproportionate and escalating effect on relaxing.” arrivals from “countries of origin”, which Kent. We also need to ensure the children who gives me concern about trafficking. come here, from often devastating OR additional spiritual nourishment, These are some of the most vulnerable circumstances, get decent life chances. FI always turn to the parish mag at children in the world and we must look after I was pleased that 11 other Kent MPs signed Bearsted, where the Holy Cross’s newest them, but even a large authority like KCC has my letter to the government seeking urgent recruit appears to have had a slip of the a limit on resources. proposals to deal with the crisis, mindful that nger when typing the following: “Hello. I applauded the government’s decision, last their consultation on the NTS concluded eight I am Catherine Ngangira. Curate at Holy summer, to increase funding to authorities months ago but with no new proposals. Cross Breasted.” Oops. responsible for large numbers of UASC. It is time for the Government to act, and my Numbers such as these, however, are no colleagues and I believe local authorities EADERS may remember the editor of longer the exception and circumstances now across the country should play their part in Rthe estimable Chart Sutton Village demand an effective system for their transfer addressing what is both a national and an News has been plagued by the local to other authorities around the country, to international issue. However that is achieved, badger destroying her owerbeds. Now ensure the best care is given. That system does we need more equity, more buy-in and more technology seems to have come to the exist – it is called the National Transfer funding across all of our regions. rescue in the form of a sonic boom, which sends out waves Brock evidently dislikes. She enthuses: “It has different settings for bears, racoons, chipmunks, skunks and Is there anybody out there? deer and, do you know, it works.” However, the cat format has not troubled THE publishers of my new book describe me as a the local moggies. “UFO expert”, which probably needs explaining as it’s not really a proper job (although book By Neil Nixon P the road at Leeds Castle, two robot sales and live talks earn some money). Author and UFO expert Ulawnmowers are now being UFO expertise resembles dedication to ob- employed to tend the verges. Their scure sports – we all know it happens; but we sel- names? Bert and Ernie, possibly after the dom meet the people involved. I’m an expert Muppets in Sesame Street. because I’ve been actively involved (member- HEAR that the new Mayor of ship of research groups, writing and talking on I’m not so sure. To me this is a subject in need Maidstone, Fay Gooch, harbours two the subject and avidly consuming the books and of more people and critical minds. A few things I not-so-secret vices – milk chocolate and magazines you won’t find over any counter), for have been obvious to many of us long-timers for all but the earliest years of my life. decades. People from all walks of life experience sherry. Presumably at the same time? There are a few of us about; likely fewer than the mysterious in ways that change their lives. Y VERY good chum, the Liberal one in every town. I live in Weavering. It’s ques- If you want to see humanity in its most cre- MDemocrat borough member Nick tionable whether I’m in a town to start with. ative and bizarre, a live UFO event won’t disap- de Wiggondene-Sheppard, has resisted UFOs are major international news again. One point you. It’s also a subject that will teach you all attempts to be wooed back into the about yourself. of Trump’s parting shots as president obliged Tory town hall fold. He tells me: “As it My opinion is that every explanation ever ad- the USA to reveal what it knows about UFOs. happens, there were quite a lot of The official report uses the term UAP (uniden- vanced in response to UFO reports; natural phe- overtures…but I can conrm I remain a tified aerial phenomena) as a more accurate rep- nomena, mistaking the ordinary for the Lib Dem, however funny you nd it.” resentation of what the US appears to know; extraordinary, hoaxes, psychological episodes which is that there are genuine mysteries out etc, explains some cases away. A hard-core of ALKING of Lib Dems, I call the there. Spectacular evidence is available, includ- others remain unexplainable – try Googling the Tamboyant councillor and builder ing camera footage shot by US military aircraft. Wow Signal or Oumuamua for my candidates for David Naghi who is unable to speak, Predictably it has gone down badly with the the closest we’ve come to ET. wailing: “I can’t talk to you now – I’m bulk of UFO believers (or “Ufologists”), who think l Neil Nixon is the author of UFOs, Aliens and trying to unblock a toilet.” anything short of a frank admission we’ve had the Battle for the Truth. His live talks are listed alien visitations amounts to a cover-up. on Speakernet. Chin chin!

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Downs Mail is published by Mail Publications Ltd (President — Dennis Fowle, Chairman — Claire Procter, Editor — Simon Finlay) 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT 01622 630330 www.downsmail.co.uk email: [email protected] Printed by Mortons. CountryHouseHomesS56.indd 1 29/05/2019 16:07