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

NewsFREE May 2019 No. 265 Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the to hasNe diedws aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. David has disclosed. HOnu boardn Thed rKentished Ladys ewerenjoy Holi colour festival Work starts on school AnationalRELIG treasureIOUS c Rustieelebra tLeeion (Fairyin Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- WMP’sORK h aLocals starte dPlanon th ebid Maidstone bathed nearly 300 construction of Maidstone’s pfaneo pBoothle in c(Princelouds oCharming),f colour. Eliza- HELEN Whately asked the beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig School of Science and The second Holi Festival of government to halt the Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, Tborough’sechnolog housingy. scheme. 45 CStephenolours to Richardsok place andat t h Adame Coll i Bor-s Mzoneille (Uglynnium Sisters)Gre e. n, off St Asbestos delays PhTheyilip’s wereAven greetedue, on byMa pupilsrch 23 .from Plans for Dr Nigel SouthLive Boroughmusic, fPrimaryood sta Schoollls an dand THE discovery of asbestos at a THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet pmembersots of dy e ofd theflou media.r were Theall p pantoart pub delays a railway will walk the Grand orunsf th frome Hi nDecemberdu festiv 1-31.al, w Forhic tick-h station’s transformation. 6 Canyon for charity. 12 retsais goed to£ 3www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk.00 for Collis Park, a community asset. Travel scheme axed HJasonUNDRE DDonovanS of disabled datepeople lTHEose formerspecia Neighbourslist transp ostarrt s bringsupport shisch showeme toaf theter cHazlittounc il 18 TCCTVaxpaye callrs to in pic ak bid up hTheatrealts fu nextndin May.g. 21 Mote Park flood alert CRUCIAL works to prevent major flooding will cause to stop fly-tipping “substantial harm” to £100k legal row bill Mote Park . 22 CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a Obituaries 28 TcountryAXPAY roadERS havehave been lostmade over by£1 the00,0 local00 fo boroughllowingcouncillor. Maidstone Borough CoBurberryuncil’ Lane,s abo nearrte Leedsd Hig andh Cnearby,ourt a morectio thann ag aa yearins aftert Ke itntunlicensed County waste Cou carriers,ncil. but be- Parish Councils 29 Broomfield,Leaked pap hasers,been seen targetedby Down bys wasBu dumpedt Tory l andeade setr, onJoh fire.n Perry, lievessaid: the“Th costey toh smallave w firmsaste ofd dis-10 COUNCILLORS are arranging a Mwasteail, s dumpersay the bo forrou years,gh’s l butegal in bi re-ll quTheestio churchned carthe park w hasisdo alsom seenof posingmonthsof an constructiond 10s of thou wastesands at o af Obituariessite meeting to discuss pla y 32 acentt the months, point theof s problemettlemen hast w be-as bmanyankro instanceslling a le ofga illegall action dumping. against transferpounds stationof taxp isay provingers’ mon ae deter-y for equipment in parish £come48,55 more4. The acute. county’s tab topped anButothe itr isloc aa probleml authorit iny i manyn the l ruralight rentwhat that? No isth costinging. councils more. Parishfield; res idCouncilsents have co mp34-35lained £55Construction,000. waste, rubble, hard oareasf “fi includingnancial co Langley,nstraints and Cllr“Wh Fortat h madeas be heren remarksagreed t aso about the smell of cannabis and core, windows and household fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in one of the borough’s closest trans- ASH dieback has been discovered in MBC launched proceedings looming cuts to frontline serv- should have been agreed round a Monkspeople co Meadowngregat ing in a t BDetlinganky ; anituregainst is K leftCC illegally last su –m oftenmer strewnto se- iBearstedces”. and Pilgrims Way have fernego stationstiating t atabl Northe.” Farm, Tun- Meadow, Barming; Visitors to in the middle of the road. also been targeted recently. bridge Wells, announced it will be village fete stall- cure a judicial ruling, following a And Labour leader, Malcolm The cost of the legal action came Loose duck race will be charged Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month Last year, Maidstone Borough closed for 10 weeks. holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has fundamental disagreement with McKay, called for out-of-court to light in April, just days after resigned;entry to B yellowrooks Flinesield iaren li nneedede with we are having toilets, sinks and Council cleared 911 cases of fly-tip- She added: “If you go along the the county council over the way discussions. Maidstone introduced a council forbo rBuffkynough co Way,uncil Othamrequire,m toe nallowts; construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 line of increasing fines, they have to tax hike above the rate of infla- busesparish through council loImperialrs are c oPark;ncer nrub-ed dvillage,eveloper specificallys’ cash is sp inent Burberryon local haveMBC been pull recordeded the pl sinceug on April. the be enforced. A reduction in the tion. bishwith a binsn in c inre a these in sports dog w fieldaste in iLane,nfrastr whereucture we im areprov noweme thinkingnts. cTheourt approaching action in M darkerarch, c eveningslaiming charge or offering it free may have The local authority voted to Kingswoodnot being pareick etod beup moved by ow overners to ofM installingaidstone’s cameras Lib De onm l privateeader “willneg promptotiation asrise we inre illegalconclu tipping.ded… the desired similar effect.” Martin Cox and chief executive and a settlement has been levy a 3% increase on households, thein T picnicovil. area and rear exit. land, to oversee the problem area.” Cllr Fort welcomed a joint initia- evAen three-monthly though CPI in litterflati pickon, w onhi thech AlAiso recentn Broo eventm said in th Burberrye action Lanewas ativegree byd”. the Environment Agency mile-long stretch of road through to achieve “clarity”. County councillor Gary Cooke benchmarks the rising cost of CrimeCrime ReportsReports 3529 saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Leedshouseh villageold bu producesdgets, sto anod averageat 1.8% AVEHICLES 1.5 tonn havee dig g beener w a drivens stole n over torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32in J blackanuar sacksy. of rubbish. ffarmlandrom Allin g into nLenham,; tools werecausing CllrThe Fort,rise i whos th e also ma servesximum as a l a- parish councillor, says teaching sdamgetolen f ro tom crops;a veh ic anle in attempted Fant; a lowed by government without cbreak-inar was kwaseye reportedd in Arun ind eDetlingl Stree; ta; childrencouncill oaboutrs be socialing c responsibilityompelled to and the issue of litter in schools will avehicle corne wasr so fvandaliseda was stole inn fBearstedrom hold a referendum to get public help take the issue off the streets. PRd,ar k WeaveringWood; a m; o pumpkinsuntain bik e were, approval for their plans. She believes with every household tstolenools a nd from gar de anni ng allotment equipme nt in The borough, which relies on YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receiving a weekly refuse collection wLenhamere sto.len from a shed in service,council theretax as is it nos p rexcuseincipa lfor so litterurce Shepway. [email protected] beingof fun d throwning, cla i frommed i vehiclest could n oret Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • dumpednearly £1 in60 the,00 0road. wor th of services Comment 38-39 for each 1% increase. Home Alarms supplied and fitted webexpand.co.uk 01622 880840 In the the top top 1% of 1%UK web of designUKvisit companies www.amiga.co.uk or call 08000 199622 webwww.webexpand.co.uk design companies | [email protected] web design google promotion ecommerce NO GIMMICKS! NO MISLEADING OFFERS! TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!

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2 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Home protest YOUNG adults who claim they are Reality star Jake is being made homeless after a serv- ice provider change at Trinity Foyer in Church Street have staged a protest outside Kent County Council. panto’s love interest Residents aged 18 to 24 will no SPRING might be in the air, but longer be accommodated at the cen- the Hazlitt Theatre has already an- tre. Provider Home Group is being nounced the celebrity fronting the replaced by Look Ahead, which cast in this year’s Christmas panto. caters for 16- and 17-year-olds. X Factor’s Jake Quickenden will A KCC spokesman said those af- be the love interest in the theatre’s fected will receive support or be rendition of Beauty and the Beast. able to stay at Trinity Foyer until The singer turned reality televi- alternative arrangements are sion personality was crowned the made. winner of the 2018 series of Danc- ing on Ice and was also runner-up in I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Brexit appeal Here in 2014. THE Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Vis- Jake said: “I am delighted to be count De L’Isle, called for unity joining the cast of Beauty and the over Brexit at a special civic service Beast at the Hazlitt Theatre this at All Saints’ Church in Maidstone Christmas, I look forward to seeing Hazlitt spokesman Michelle were sold for Aladdin and we had on March 12. you all there.” Woodland said: “We are excited to a solid streak of sold-out shows for The Queen’s representative in He began his celebrity career on announce Jake will be starring in the last 10 days of the run.” the county told the congregation the talent show The X Factor, where the next Hazlitt panto. Last year Beauty and the Beast will run that “Her Majesty wishes to ensure he was a contestant on the 9th and starred Richard Blackwood and it from Saturday, November 30, to the people of Kent form a united 11th series in 2012 and 2014. He has was a huge success. It was incredi- Tuesday, December 30. front … to ensure we help each been an anchor on The Chart Show, ble and we received a lot of posi- Tickets are currently £1 off. Offer other, whatever the future brings.” trained for the Channel 4 series The tive feedback, we hope to do the ends August 31. For details, visit Parish Council chairman Jump, and is a panellist on Big same this year. www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk/ Bob Hinder said: “It was well at- Brother’s Bit on the Side. “Last year, 90% of our tickets Hazlitt-Theatre. tended and highly atmospheric.” COUNTY COBBLER

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Maidstone May 2019 3 News downsmail.co.uk Cleaning patrol moves into town A RADICAL new approach to keeping the county town’s streets clean after years of “going to rack and ruin” has been welcomed. The Maidstone Business Im- Street and will undertake routine provement District (BID) is fund- cleansing activities.” ing a specialist street cleaning Nu-Venture Buses Tweeted its service in Maidstone town centre. approval: “A great initiative. More Local borough councillor bins at the main bus stops would Jonathan Purle said the scheme help – much of the town centre de- will help to “restore some civic bris seems to relate to students eat- pride” and benefit businesses. ing the remains of their lunch BID manager for the town centre whilst awaiting their buses.” group, Ilsa Butler, said the pro- Maidstone Borough Council, gramme goes beyond the cleaning was one of four organisations provided by Maidstone Borough which bid for the work and will Council by targeting issues of par- now be paid £40,000 annually for ticular concern to local businesses. three years from BID money. Cllr Purle said: “The place is The BID, which came into effect looking better already, after years Cllr Jonathan Purle and BID manage Ilsa Butler last October, was proposed by One of being allowed to go rack and deep cleaning of pavements, as any issues to the cleansing teams. Maidstone, a not-for-profit body ruin. We need to get some civic well as the removal of gum, vege- Ilsa Butler said: “Local busi- dedicated to improving the trading pride back into the place. tation and graffiti. nesses and visitors will benefit environment. “Retailers are having a tough In addition, the contract includes from the service which will ensure An MBC spokesman said: “By time and it is hard enough attract- a rapid response service for emer- the town centre is as clean and at- making the town centre a clean ing people into town with sky- gencies, such as spillages, graffiti tractive as possible. and attractive place, the initiative high, rip-off parking charges and removal and rubbish collection. “The enhanced cleaning project will encourage more people to visit never-ending congestion.” The Street Ambassadors will sup- has started with gum removal and enjoy Maidstone’s fantastic Staffers use power washing and port local businesses by reporting along King Street and the High business, retail and leisure offer.” Cu�ing crime Two charged with a�acks on police and Crime Commis- sioner Matthew Scott has set aside A MAN and woman are the latest Road, was charged with three gency worker and causing criminal £1m to invest in projects which cut suspects to be charged under re- counts of assault by beating of an damage. He was bailed to appear violent crime. cently-introduced legislation to emergency worker and a further before Maidstone Magistrates’ The "violence reduction fund" is protect emergency workers. charge of common assault of an Court on May 10. one of the recommendations to It is alleged the woman made emergency worker. She is bailed to Maidstone Chief Inspector Ray emerge from his study into the na- threats to police officers in Palace appear at Maidstone Magistrates’ Quiller said: “It can never be ac- ture, scale and causes of the issue. Avenue, Maidstone, at about 7pm Court on May 8. ceptable for police officers to be Local groups will soon be able to on April 4. On Sunday, April 7, police were subjected to assaults and abuse bid for about £100,000 each, with As she was arrested, she is said called to a collision in Holland whilst carrying out their duties to the funding to be spent over three to have spat in the face of an officer Road, Maidstone, where one of the uphold the law and protect the years. and kicked a colleague. Another officers was allegedly punched in communities they serve. officer claimed to have been as- the face. “We will seek to prosecute any- saulted whilst she was in custody Jacob Keep (21), of Postley Road, one we suspect is responsible for Flats ready at a police station. was arrested and later charged these offences and ensure there are A BLOCK of flats, hailed as herald- Dawn Ring (36), of Tonbridge with assault by beating of an emer- consequences for their actions.” ing the start of a rental income for the borough, opened in King Street at the end of March. Lenworth House, described by Private hospital closes its doors Maidstone Borough Council as HEALTH chiefs have closed the door saying that it is committed “to help- at the time: “This has been a difficult “housing solutions”, has 14 apart- on a private hospital after three ing staff on the next steps in their decision to make, not least because ments that are a mixture of one-, decades of life-saving service to the careers”. the staff at the hospital have been two- and three-bedroom flats. people of Maidstone. A spokesman said: “We devised in- so dedicated and take pride in the Bosses at The Somerfield, which dividual care plans for each of our service they provide to patients.” Coffee date also handled NHS referrals, said they patients, so they could continue The Somerfield has posted a had taken the “difficult decision” with their treatment.” farewell message on its website A COFFEE morning will be held to after the growth of rivals in the area The 38-bed private hospital, which reads: “We thank our patients raise funds for the Kent Multiple rocked the London Road hospital’s which had three operating theatres who have chosen The Somerfield Sclerosis Therapy Centre on Fri- activity and financial position. and a high dependency unit, had Hospital over the last 30 years, and day, May 3. The last patients moved out on around 60% of its inpatients re- hope that our sister hospitals will be It takes place at the Oak on the March 31. ferred by the NHS and upwards of able to serve you in the future.” Green, Bearsted Green from 9.30- The future of The Somerfield’s 30% of its outpatients. The infirmary is now in the 11.30am. There is a £5 entry for tea, 50-odd nurses and healthcare prac- Its owners announced over a process of shutting down its website coffee and cake, as well as a raffle. titioners is still hanging in the bal- month ago that it would be closing. and following up with “small bits Call Natasha on 07949 051408 for ance, with owner BMI Healthcare The spokesman told Downs Mail and bobs” that still need to be done. details.

4 Maidstone May 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Garden open Cleaning patrol moves into town KEEN gardeners will be able to Science school looks have a peek over the wall at the horticultural efforts at a private A RADICAL new approach to keeping the county town’s streets clean after years of “going to rack house in Maidstone. and ruin” has been welcomed. The owner of the 120ft garden at 14 Anglesey Avenue is inviting the The Maidstone Business Im- Street and will undertake routine set to open next year public to take a look at the raised provement District (BID) is fund- cleansing activities.” CONSTRUCTION of a new sci- beds, rockeries and troughs ac- ing a specialist street cleaning Nu-Venture Buses Tweeted its ence school for the county town is commodating alpine/rock and gar- service in Maidstone town centre. approval: “A great initiative. More now well under way. den plants for charity. Local borough councillor bins at the main bus stops would The frame of the School of Sci- The garden is open from 11am Jonathan Purle said the scheme help – much of the town centre de- ence and Technology Maidstone to 5pm on May 3 and 5 and June will help to “restore some civic bris seems to relate to students eat- (SSTM) is now completed. 1, 2, 4 and 5 as part of the Open pride” and benefit businesses. ing the remains of their lunch Contractors created an entrance Garden for NGS charity event. BID manager for the town centre whilst awaiting their buses.” off New Cut Road before starting Admission is £3, free for children. group, Ilsa Butler, said the pro- Maidstone Borough Council, work on the shell of the building, For group bookings, call 01622 gramme goes beyond the cleaning was one of four organisations which will be run by the Valley In- 299932. provided by Maidstone Borough which bid for the work and will victa Academies’ Trust (VIAT). Council by targeting issues of par- now be paid £40,000 annually for VIAT co-CEO Vic Ashdown con- The STEM school takes shape off New Cut Road and right, Vic Ashdown ticular concern to local businesses. three years from BID money. firmed the SSTM will open in Sep- planning row with Maidstone Bor- announced it had taken over man- Music contest Cllr Purle said: “The place is The BID, which came into effect tember 2020 after a 72-week build ough Council, whose members agement of Swadelands School in ALL Saints’ Church hosted its looking better already, after years Cllr Jonathan Purle and BID manage Ilsa Butler last October, was proposed by One by contractors BAM. had concerns about access, bus . ninth annual Organ Competition of being allowed to go rack and deep cleaning of pavements, as any issues to the cleansing teams. Maidstone, a not-for-profit body The school will start with a 180 routes, tree felling and congestion. As well as running Valley Park to encourage young players. ruin. We need to get some civic well as the removal of gum, vege- Ilsa Butler said: “Local busi- dedicated to improving the trading year seven pupil intake, but will VIAT challenged the commit- School and Invicta Grammar First prize in the elementary pride back into the place. tation and graffiti. nesses and visitors will benefit environment. eventually swell to 1,200. tee’s decision with the secretary of School in Maidstone, VIAT also op- category was awarded to Samuel “Retailers are having a tough In addition, the contract includes from the service which will ensure An MBC spokesman said: “By Because of its specialised nature, state and was given the go-ahead erates primary schools in Ayles- Sleath (14) and Thomas Winrow- time and it is hard enough attract- a rapid response service for emer- the town centre is as clean and at- making the town centre a clean the school is likely to attract stu- to start work. ford, Kings Hill, Leybourne Chase ing people into town with sky- gencies, such as spillages, graffiti tractive as possible. and attractive place, the initiative Campbell (11). Winner of the ad- dents from all over the borough, The curriculum will be designed and Holborough Lakes. high, rip-off parking charges and removal and rubbish collection. “The enhanced cleaning project will encourage more people to visit vanced class was Ondrej Smolik which was one of the reasons there with a focus on Science, Technol- Kent County Council expects never-ending congestion.” The Street Ambassadors will sup- has started with gum removal and enjoy Maidstone’s fantastic from Liberec, Czech Republic, were concerns about congestion. ogy, Engineering and Mathematics there to be a shortfall of more than Staffers use power washing and port local businesses by reporting along King Street and the High business, retail and leisure offer.” and Ben Markovic from London. The SSTM was meant to have (STEM subjects). 650 school places in the Maidstone The festival was first held in been open and running by Sep- VIAT is one of the largest educa- area for students aged seven to 11 May 2006 and was renamed the Cu�ing crime Two charged with a�acks on police tember last year but ended up in a tional trusts in Kent, and recently by 2021. Organ Competition in 2015. KENT Police and Crime Commis- sioner Matthew Scott has set aside A MAN and woman are the latest Road, was charged with three gency worker and causing criminal £1m to invest in projects which cut suspects to be charged under re- counts of assault by beating of an damage. He was bailed to appear violent crime. cently-introduced legislation to emergency worker and a further before Maidstone Magistrates’ BOOK EARLY The "violence reduction fund" is protect emergency workers. charge of common assault of an Court on May 10. 01622 one of the recommendations to It is alleged the woman made emergency worker. She is bailed to Maidstone Chief Inspector Ray TO AVOID emerge from his study into the na- threats to police officers in Palace appear at Maidstone Magistrates’ Quiller said: “It can never be ac- ture, scale and causes of the issue. Avenue, Maidstone, at about 7pm Court on May 8. ceptable for police officers to be 675000 DISAPPOINTMENT Local groups will soon be able to on April 4. On Sunday, April 7, police were subjected to assaults and abuse bid for about £100,000 each, with As she was arrested, she is said called to a collision in Holland whilst carrying out their duties to Our food is freshly prepared on the premises using the finest quality ingredients, by Turkish & Kurdish chefs. the funding to be spent over three to have spat in the face of an officer Road, Maidstone, where one of the uphold the law and protect the years. and kicked a colleague. Another officers was allegedly punched in communities they serve. officer claimed to have been as- the face. “We will seek to prosecute any- Choose from our delicious new menu saulted whilst she was in custody Jacob Keep (21), of Postley Road, one we suspect is responsible for Flats ready at a police station. was arrested and later charged these offences and ensure there are A BLOCK of flats, hailed as herald- Dawn Ring (36), of Tonbridge with assault by beating of an emer- consequences for their actions.” ing the start of a rental income for Set Menu A Set Menu B Set Menu C the borough, opened in King Street 6 Cold Mezzes 5 Cold Mezzes All food from Set Menu B at the end of March. + 6 Hot Mezzes + 2 Hot Mezzes + Unlimited House Wine & Beer Lenworth House, described by Private hospital closes its doors Still & Sparkling Water and Maidstone Borough Council as HEALTH chiefs have closed the door saying that it is committed “to help- at the time: “This has been a difficult +1 dessert +1 Main Course +1 dessert Soft Drinks for 2 1/2 Hours “housing solutions”, has 14 apart- on a private hospital after three ing staff on the next steps in their decision to make, not least because ments that are a mixture of one-, decades of life-saving service to the careers”. the staff at the hospital have been £13.95 pp £16.95 pp £32.95 pp Upgrade to two- and three-bedroom flats. people of Maidstone. A spokesman said: “We devised in- so dedicated and take pride in the Prosecco Bosses at The Somerfield, which dividual care plans for each of our service they provide to patients.” for just £5.95 also handled NHS referrals, said they patients, so they could continue The Somerfield has posted a Coffee date per bottle had taken the “difficult decision” with their treatment.” farewell message on its website TAKE AWAY NOW AVAILABLE A COFFEE morning will be held to after the growth of rivals in the area The 38-bed private hospital, which reads: “We thank our patients raise funds for the Kent Multiple rocked the London Road hospital’s which had three operating theatres who have chosen The Somerfield Sunday - Thursday 12.00 - 22.30 Friday, Saturday 12.00 - Late Sclerosis Therapy Centre on Fri- activity and financial position. and a high dependency unit, had Hospital over the last 30 years, and day, May 3. The last patients moved out on around 60% of its inpatients re- hope that our sister hospitals will be It takes place at the Oak on the March 31. ferred by the NHS and upwards of able to serve you in the future.” Green, Bearsted Green from 9.30- The future of The Somerfield’s 30% of its outpatients. The infirmary is now in the 62-63 High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1SR 11.30am. There is a £5 entry for tea, 50-odd nurses and healthcare prac- Its owners announced over a process of shutting down its website www.gemofkent.co.uk [email protected] coffee and cake, as well as a raffle. titioners is still hanging in the bal- month ago that it would be closing. and following up with “small bits Call Natasha on 07949 051408 for ance, with owner BMI Healthcare The spokesman told Downs Mail and bobs” that still need to be done. details. Our promise is that all our food is prepared on the premises using the finest ingredients by Turkish & Kurdish chefs.

Maidstone May 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Asbestos halts station progress THE discovery of significant £4.5m on 10.5 acres. These include amounts of asbestos in a build- the old Royal Mail site – currently ing bought by Network Rail will being used as a car park – and of- further delay multi-million fices to create a strategic “gateway pound plans to transform Maid- to the town”. stone, its station and the east end A spokesman for Network Rail Wendy Hiller, Tomiwa James, Judith Sloan, Lisa Burns, with radiologists of town. said: “We have now appointed a Ferdenah Munroe, Wayde Morgan, Abin Babu and David Brown The lack of progress on the specialist asbestos contractor. demolition of the Victoria pub in “In the meantime, some works Week Street has pushed the deliv- on the station building will con- Praise for scan centre ery date for the Maidstone East tinue, including setting up a tem- AN imaging service for cancer pa- showcase the fantastic work the Rail Station from this summer to porary ticket office so refurbish- tients in Maidstone has been team does, and to demonstrate next spring. ment of the main ticket office can praised by a government watchdog. that we are continuously striving to Network Rail had hoped to begin. We are sorry for the delay.” Maidstone PET-CT Centre at the improve. bring the derelict building down A spokesman for KCC said town’s hospital in Hermitage Lane, “The team is proud of the unit last September, but it still stands movement on the stalled site which provides diagnostic and and the facilities it provides for pa- swathed in scaffolding and plas- would be welcome, adding: “We screening procedures, was rated tients, and was pleased the CQC tic, directly over the railway line. are pleased to see progress being “good” by the Care Quality Com- recognised its efforts with a ‘good’ The £2.5m station improvements, made on the demolition of The mission. rating.” which will include a glass entrance, Vic. The improvements underway The service, run by Alliance Med- The report identified three areas a concourse and café, is being at Maidstone East railway station ical, operates five days a week to where further improvements should funded by the National Stations Im- are an important part of the wider see patients within recommended be made. provement Programme, with £1m regeneration of this part of town.” time frames. Mr Brown added: “The team wel- from KCC’s growth fund. MBC’s director of regeneration Maidstone PET-CT unit manager comes this feedback as an opportu- However, it is also central to William Cornall said: “The regen- David Brown said: “This was our first nity to develop the service further, more ambitious plans from the eration will continue to inspection by CQC since opening in and is working to implement these county and borough councils, strengthen the collective drive for 2017. It was a great opportunity to recommendations.” which have spent an estimated improvements to Maidstone.” Summer Activities School THE WALNUT TREE 29th July to 2nd August 2019 Your traditional, family run, local pub. 5th August to 9th August 2019 9.30am to 4.30pm* Kent’s longest running comedy club Every Thursday Is your child bored during the Summer Holidays? Why don’t they – Come and see the future join our Summer Activities School which has been very popular for the last two decades. Our programme represents value for money stars of comedy live! whilst offering your child lots of fun and a good opportunity to make new friends. Live Music - Fun packed activities for Boys & Girls Ages 8 to 14 • Arts & Craft • Badminton • Basketball • Cookery every Friday • Five-a-side Football • Kwik Cricket • Mini Hockey (visit website for details) • Short Tennis • Swimming • Table Tennis • Volleyball Jam Night - First Monday of the month Single week: £110 Two weeks: £200 Daily: £30

If you are interested in applying for a place for your child or children, please complete the application form available on the Live Band Quiz Night school website and send it along with your payment to Maidstone Third Monday of Every Month Grammar School for the attention of the Bursary. * Breakfast Club 8.30am to 9.30am additional fee of £7.50 per day applies Dogs welcome on their leads Lovely beer garden and car park. Book early to avoid disappointment Varied bar menu served every day 12noon-8.30pm. Come try our famous ‘Build a Burger’ meals! Tel: 01622 752101 Email: [email protected] Find us opposite the entrance to Oakwood Park Website: www.mgs.kent.sch.uk Tonbridge Road, Maidstone ME16 8SR 01622 727260 Maidstone Grammar School, Barton Road, email : [email protected] Maidstone, Kent. ME15 7BT web : www.thewalnuttreemaidstone.com

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Maidstone May 2019 7 News | Churches in crisis downsmail.co.uk Sharing the burden of costs IT IS always a delicate topic to discuss, but the region’s churches are being forced to talk money. Rising costs, falling attendance to pay. Anna Drew, director of and an upcoming recruitment communications for the Diocese crisis, with 50% of vicars prepar- of Canterbury, admits some ing to retire over the next five churches will find meeting their years, has prompted the Church obligations a challenge, with last to question how congregations year’s average parish share bill of will pay to maintain the service nearly £37,000 set to rise by 3.5% in future. this year. The “parish share”, which She said: “The level of funding funds the area’s ministry and required will be difficult to sus- asks each church to make a fi- tain. nancial contribution, is at the “Perhaps, in the past we felt centre of the debate. there were more important issues In recent years, more churches to attend to than money, but now have struggled to meet the fi- we need this bigger conversa- nancial obligation, with shrink- tion.” ing congregations (6.3% down Both Canterbury and Rochester last year) giving to collections. dioceses, which cover Maidstone As a result, the latest consulta- and Malling respectively, are now tions on the payment across the wrestling to make ends meet, region are “exercising” emo- with more than 80% of churches tions. write off the crippling historical sidered. Some churches, like St in the region grade I listed build- And, with just 11,191 worship- £160,000 parish share debt ac- Lawrence’s in Thanet, are already ings, including the county town’s pers stepping across the thresh- crued by Maidstone and ’s employing innovative methods to All Saints’ Church, which spends old of the 300 or so churches in All Saints’, St Philip’s and St raise cash. It is producing and around £8,000 a year on heating the Canterbury Diocese last year, Stephen’s churches. selling St Lawrence Grid Iron ale alone. They say a robust parish the funding issue is set to Asking worshippers to give to pay its parish share. share will be crucial in recruiting worsen. more to the collection and creat- However, many smaller rural new clergy and paying the pen- In Maidstone this year, the ing new revenue streams are churches will struggle with any sions of those who retire. Diocese of Canterbury agreed to among the solutions being con- increase in the money they have Reporting by Dawn Kingsford ‘Service has ‘We’re proud to help out’ to be funded’ THE Reverend Fiona Haskett CANON John Corbyn, the supports the parish share and its vicar of Bearsted with Thurn- help in maintaining the country’s ham, agrees with the principle network of churches. of the parish share in helping This is de- the wider church family. spite the fact He said: “Church services that it takes are free at around £75,000 the point of from the cof- d e l i ve r y , fers of the four like the churches in her NHS, but charge at Chart they have Sutton, East to be Sutton, Head- f u n d e d ‘More cloth can be cut’ corn and . somehow.” THE Reverend David Green, vicar of He suggests the diocese offices at She said: “With one of my own churches at risk of closure, it’s a He believes a reliance on St Mary’s, West Malling, and the Canterbury and Rochester merge to struggle to find the money. shrinking government grants, rector of St Michael’s, Offham, sup- save on back office functions. “But, we are proud to be subsi- charity and the collection tray ports the principle of the parish “Unlike a business, there are cer- dising a parochial system where for the upkeep of these build- share. tain costs that we can’t avoid, such everyone can look to their own ings needs to change. It represents a bill equivalent to as lighting and heating. People are church and minister for support. “We need to ask whether the more than half of his church in- very generous, but there is only so “Fundraising for the local wider community wishes to come, at around £45,000. But he much money available. To have two church is hard work, but it is also help maintain its heritage, says recent negotiations by the Dio- diocese offices in Kent suggests that a social opportunity to bring the rather than relying on a small cese of Rochester to add a 10% there is more that they could do to community together, and we number of worshippers. contribution – before deductions – cut their cloth.” would encourage more people to “The crisis has been like are “ludicrous”. He added: “The parish share is in- standing on thinning ice on a support their local church in He says any additional amount dicative. We can change the finance whatever way they can. pond. We have continued to will push his churches into the red. model, but it won’t fix the problem.” stand but churches do close. “We’re not all strange charac- And, while Offham could match last He also believes ministers should ters in sandals, we’re human be- It’s whether we as the public year’s parish share, any more would also preside over more than one let them.” ings who really care about our be “crippling”. church. fellow man.”

8 Maidstone May 2019 | Churches in crisis downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News News downsmail.co.ukBusiness Focus Sharing the burden of costs IT IS always a delicate topic to discuss, but the region’s churches are being forced to talk money. Rising costs, falling attendance to pay. Anna Drew, director of and an upcoming recruitment communications for the Diocese crisis, with 50% of vicars prepar- of Canterbury, admits some ing to retire over the next five churches will find meeting their Ask the years, has prompted the Church obligations a challenge, with last to question how congregations year’s average parish share bill of will pay to maintain the service nearly £37,000 set to rise by 3.5% in future. this year. The “parish share”, which She said: “The level of funding funds the area’s ministry and required will be difficult to sus- asks each church to make a fi- tain. expert nancial contribution, is at the “Perhaps, in the past we felt centre of the debate. there were more important issues This week in our Ask the expert series, In recent years, more churches to attend to than money, but now have struggled to meet the fi- we need this bigger conversa- we ask Audiologist Hannah Harris from nancial obligation, with shrink- tion.” ing congregations (6.3% down Both Canterbury and Rochester award winning Buchanan Optometrists and last year) giving to collections. dioceses, which cover Maidstone Audiologists all about hearing. As a result, the latest consulta- and Malling respectively, are now tions on the payment across the wrestling to make ends meet, Why do I need a hearing test? we carry out your test in a custom- a reasonable volume for the room with more than 80% of churches region are “exercising” emo- designed sound-attenuating room and enhanced through your hearing tions. write off the crippling historical sidered. Some churches, like St in the region grade I listed build- Hearing loss often goes unnoticed, And, with just 11,191 worship- £160,000 parish share debt ac- Lawrence’s in Thanet, are already ings, including the county town’s and it is the people around you that to ensure you get the best results. I aids. These latest generations of pers stepping across the thresh- crued by Maidstone and Tovil’s employing innovative methods to All Saints’ Church, which spends perform many more tests than most hearing aids give you a much better old of the 300 or so churches in All Saints’, St Philip’s and St raise cash. It is producing and around £8,000 a year on heating find it difficult. They have to repeat the Canterbury Diocese last year, Stephen’s churches. selling St Lawrence Grid Iron ale alone. They say a robust parish things in conversation, they find basic hearing tests including ear quality of hearing and a better the funding issue is set to Asking worshippers to give to pay its parish share. share will be crucial in recruiting health screening, video Otoscopy quality of life. worsen. more to the collection and creat- However, many smaller rural new clergy and paying the pen- you have the television or radio too In Maidstone this year, the ing new revenue streams are churches will struggle with any sions of those who retire. loud, or you find that people seem to to assess the health of your ear Diocese of Canterbury agreed to among the solutions being con- increase in the money they have Reporting by Dawn Kingsford mumble or not speak clearly. These canal and eardrum, outer ear and What does a hearing assessment ‘We’re proud are some of the most common skin assessment. Tympanometry cost? ‘Service has indications of hearing loss. which evaluates your outer and It only costs £149 for your to help out’ middle ear, also the mobility of comprehensive hearing assessment to be funded’ THE Reverend Fiona Haskett Will I need hearing aids? the eardrum, looking for treatable which includes all the tests CANON John Corbyn, the supports the parish share and its conditions. Pure tone air conduction We see many clients who need wax mentioned above. You get to see me vicar of Bearsted with Thurn- help in maintaining the country’s and bone conduction audiology ham, agrees with the principle network of churches. removal. We use the latest video personally, and I will deal with all of the parish share in helping This is de- tests and further tests as required, otoscopy to have a look at the aspects of your hearing care. the wider church family. spite the fact speech audiometry which measures He said: “Church services that it takes health of your ears and identify any around £75,000 and scores your ability to hear are free at issues or concerns. Video otoscopy the point of from the cof- and recognise words at different Don’t suffer any longer, d e l i ve r y , fers of the four is far superior to an optical otoscope churches in her intensity levels. book your comprehensive like the which doesn’t give the same NHS, but charge at Chart hearing assessment now they have Sutton, East magnification and clarity. to be Sutton, Head- Are all hearing aids the same? by calling f u n d e d ‘More cloth can be cut’ corn and Sutton Valence. No. The newest digital hearing somehow.” THE Reverend David Green, vicar of He suggests the diocese offices at She said: “With one of my own Do I need to treat my hearing loss? He believes a reliance on St Mary’s, West Malling, and the Canterbury and Rochester merge to churches at risk of closure, it’s a aids can be fine-tuned over many 01732 617557 struggle to find the money. No, but research has shown that shrinking government grants, rector of St Michael’s, Offham, sup- save on back office functions. channels to give you better hearing. “But, we are proud to be subsi- charity and the collection tray ports the principle of the parish “Unlike a business, there are cer- treating hearing loss can also delay dising a parochial system where They have directional microphones, for the upkeep of these build- share. tain costs that we can’t avoid, such everyone can look to their own the onset of Alzheimer’s disease ings needs to change. It represents a bill equivalent to as lighting and heating. People are background noise can be filtered church and minister for support. “We need to ask whether the more than half of his church in- very generous, but there is only so and dementia. Hearing loss can also “Fundraising for the local out, and speech improvement wider community wishes to come, at around £45,000. But he much money available. To have two church is hard work, but it is also lead to embarrassment and social help maintain its heritage, says recent negotiations by the Dio- diocese offices in Kent suggests that technology assists with speech a social opportunity to bring the rather than relying on a small cese of Rochester to add a 10% there is more that they could do to isolation. community together, and we recognition in noisy situations. number of worshippers. contribution – before deductions – cut their cloth.” would encourage more people to “The crisis has been like are “ludicrous”. He added: “The parish share is in- Bluetooth links to your phone or standing on thinning ice on a support their local church in Aren’t all hearing tests the same? tablet and television connections He says any additional amount dicative. We can change the finance whatever way they can. Buchanan House, pond. We have continued to will push his churches into the red. model, but it won’t fix the problem.” stand but churches do close. “We’re not all strange charac- No. At Buchanan Audiologists I allow wireless streaming of audio 56 Malling Road, Snodland, And, while Offham could match last He also believes ministers should ters in sandals, we’re human be- It’s whether we as the public year’s parish share, any more would also preside over more than one spend the time (up to 90 minutes) directly to the hearing aid so, for let them.” ings who really care about our Kent, ME6 5NB be “crippling”. church. fellow man.” with you to discuss your problems, example, your television can be at

Maidstone May 2019 9 News | Election 2019 downsmail.co.uk Legal action’s ugly shadow THE issue of Maidstone Borough Council’s doomed High Court action against Kent County Council will rear its head before polling day, we can reveal. The MBC bill at the point of set- elections every four years, rather tlement was £48,554, and Downs than annually, which, they claim, Mail understands KCC spent in ex- could save taxpayers £300,000. cess of £55,000. When MBC backed down from Both bills will have to be paid the High Court action, the author- from the public purse. ities agreed a seven-point list of The Conservative opposition outcomes. They include both sides group at the town hall is bound to agreeing to bear their own costs pounce on the issue in the run-up and KCC agreeing not to use S106 to the local elections on May 2 as money for relief road studies, but council spending comes under the for highways mitigation. microscope. Also in the pipeline is the estab- MBC launched proceedings lishment of a Maidstone Strategic against KCC last summer to secure achieve “clarity” on the disburse- wasted 10 months and tens of Board to discuss major projects a judicial review over the county ment and spending of the S106 div- thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ and the employment of a “trans- council’s use of £200,000 in devel- idends. money for what? Nothing. port planner” funded by MBC, but oper contributions for studies into There are major concerns that “What has been agreed could and working for KCC. a Leeds-Langley relief road. south Maidstone’s road will not be should have been agreed round the Despite years of poor relations The borough’s management and able to cope with the extra traffic negotiating table. But I am glad it is between MBC and Tory-run KCC, Lib Dem leadership wanted the when 25,000 new homes are built going forward at long last.” the two authorities will work “col- cash (S106 money) for changes to in the borough. Opposition groups may seek to laboratively”, particularly for the the highways in light of a massive County councillor Gary Cooke, a highlight £60,000 of public funds Local Plan review, set for adoption house-building programme. candidate in and spent by MBC on a slick brochure in three years. The review will Lib Dem leader Martin Cox and Otham, said: “Of course, this is an to sell plots of private land for up bring 8,000 more houses on top of MBC chief executive Alison Broom election issue – people have a right to a thousand town centre homes. 17,600 in the Local Plan passed in claimed the legal action was to to know. This administration has And the Tories are pressing for 2017. It’s all to play Dealing with the Brexit factor for in borough THE one topic every party activist is and fed up with politicians. It is THE current make-up of the keen to swerve on the doorstep is pretty negative across the piece council is: the one beginning with “B”. …but it is early days and a lot will CON...... 24 Most have been trying to avoid happen between now and then.” LIB DEM...... 21 the subject of Brexit, while trying to Liberal Democrat candidate INDS...... 5 steer the subject towards more local Richard Webb (pictured), standing in LAB ...... 3 issues. and Hunton, said: “I’ve IND M’STONE ...... 2 But Tory MP Helen Whately, after been trying to stay away from the The Lib Dems are in control of canvassing support in Downswood Brexit word and keep to local issues. the council despite being the sec- and Otham ward, summed up frus- “It does have a local impact, of ond largest party at the town hall trations in that part of Maidstone in course, but it is not something a because they have a power-shar- a Tweet on March 30. member on Maidstone Borough ing arrangement with smaller It read: “Views on the doorsteps: Council can control.” groups. had enough of Brexit / just get on Leader of the opposition Tory It does mean, however, they with Brexit / let’s just leave / it’ll group at the town hall, Cllr John will have to retain all their seats to have to be a compromise ... but over- Perry, said: “We’ve had some very stay in charge but, more crucially, all, just get on with it.” positive feedback. But some people the Tories will have to do the Labour activist Malcolm McKay have told us they’ll never vote same and perhaps gain four or said: “People are fed up with politics again.” five more. Some Tory insiders think it un- likely this time round, but may put themselves within touching Targeting the crucial postal votes distance by 2020 when another tranche of winnable seats will THE postal vote will probably de- At a time of disillusionment 2 could be hard. So postal votes come along. cide the balance of power on with politics and when turnout is are a guarantee that pledges will Elections take place in the fol- Maidstone Borough Council on expected to be low, keeping the convert to votes.” lowing wards: Allington, May 2. message local will be key. The Conservatives have numer- Bearsted, Boxley, Coxheath and Activists will hope to have a A Tory activist said: “You’d ical superiority over the Liberal Hunton, and Thurnham, leaflet or personal communication think we would be getting stick Democrats but the latter can de- Downswood and Otham, East, on the voters’ doormats on or be- over Brexit, but we’re not. People liver a working majority, with the Fant, and Lenham, fore the postal vote slips come in. can see these elections are about help of independents. High Street, Leeds, Loose, Mar- A Labour party worker said: local issues such as housing, lack The postal vote is attractive to den and , North, Shepway “Some wards have a 50% postal of roads and the awful traffic. the elderly or infirm. Postal vot- North, South, , Sutton vote, so those contests will be de- “But they’ve had enough of pol- ers have to register first and post Valence and Langley. termined prior to polling day.” itics and getting them out on May the slip back before polling day.

10 Maidstone May 2019 News | Election 2019 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Election 2019 | News Legal action’s ugly shadow Lib Dem Fran THE issue of Maidstone Borough Council’s doomed High Court action against Kent County Council will rear its head before polling day, we can reveal. to stand down The MBC bill at the point of set- elections every four years, rather tlement was £48,554, and Downs than annually, which, they claim, FORMER Liberal Democrat Mail understands KCC spent in ex- could save taxpayers £300,000. councillor Fran Wilson is step- cess of £55,000. When MBC backed down from ping down from Maidstone Bor- Both bills will have to be paid the High Court action, the author- ough Council after 24 years. from the public purse. ities agreed a seven-point list of Cllr Wilson was twice elected The Conservative opposition outcomes. They include both sides leader of the local authority. group at the town hall is bound to agreeing to bear their own costs The 76-year-old was leader pounce on the issue in the run-up and KCC agreeing not to use S106 briefly from 2007 to 2008 and was to the local elections on May 2 as money for relief road studies, but elected again in 2015. council spending comes under the for highways mitigation. She was in charge of the Lib microscope. Also in the pipeline is the estab- Dem group which guided MBC launched proceedings lishment of a Maidstone Strategic through the Local Plan which against KCC last summer to secure achieve “clarity” on the disburse- wasted 10 months and tens of Board to discuss major projects committed Maidstone to 17,600 a judicial review over the county ment and spending of the S106 div- thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ and the employment of a “trans- more homes in the first tranche of council’s use of £200,000 in devel- idends. money for what? Nothing. port planner” funded by MBC, but house-building. oper contributions for studies into There are major concerns that “What has been agreed could and working for KCC. Her High Street ward will be a Leeds-Langley relief road. south Maidstone’s road will not be should have been agreed round the Despite years of poor relations fought by Nepalese-born Dinesh The borough’s management and able to cope with the extra traffic negotiating table. But I am glad it is between MBC and Tory-run KCC, Khadka, but Cllr Wilson admits it the work that I have been most in- Lib Dem leadership wanted the when 25,000 new homes are built going forward at long last.” the two authorities will work “col- may be hard to hang on to. terested in. cash (S106 money) for changes to in the borough. Opposition groups may seek to laboratively”, particularly for the A population explosion, high “I am 77 in June and my hus- the highways in light of a massive County councillor Gary Cooke, a highlight £60,000 of public funds Local Plan review, set for adoption resident turnover and influx of band is 83 in November, so nei- house-building programme. candidate in Downswood and spent by MBC on a slick brochure in three years. The review will Londoners may all impact on the ther of us is exactly in the Lib Dem leader Martin Cox and Otham, said: “Of course, this is an to sell plots of private land for up bring 8,000 more houses on top of already traditionally low turnout, upswing of our lives and I feel I MBC chief executive Alison Broom election issue – people have a right to a thousand town centre homes. 17,600 in the Local Plan passed in she said. have served my time. I want to go claimed the legal action was to to know. This administration has And the Tories are pressing for 2017. She added: “Turnout has been when people still think I have got abysmal, but the reason we have half a brain.” three Lib Dem councillors there is Cllr Wilson was succeeded by It’s all to play because of damned hard work fellow Liberal Democrat Cllr Mar- Dealing with the Brexit factor year in and year out. tin Cox, who is in charge of a Lib Will, Estate or for in borough THE one topic every party activist is and fed up with politicians. It is “This year’s election will be in- Dem, Labour and independent al- THE current make-up of the keen to swerve on the doorstep is pretty negative across the piece teresting, and who knows what liance. council is: the one beginning with “B”. …but it is early days and a lot will will happen.” Leader of the conservative op- Power of Attorney CON...... 24 Most have been trying to avoid happen between now and then.” Congestion, development and position group at the town hall, LIB DEM...... 21 the subject of Brexit, while trying to Liberal Democrat candidate air quality will be factors which Cllr John Perry, said he would dispute? INDS...... 5 steer the subject towards more local Richard Webb (pictured), standing in come into play, said Cllr Wilson. miss Cllr Wilson in the chamber. LAB ...... 3 issues. Coxheath and Hunton, said: “I’ve She added: “I have served on He added: “She has been a very Do you have a dispute regarding how a IND M’STONE ...... 2 But Tory MP Helen Whately, after been trying to stay away from the every committee, been leader of worthy opponent and is a hugely The Lib Dems are in control of canvassing support in Downswood Brexit word and keep to local issues. the council twice and leader of the experienced and dedicated ser- Will, Estate or Power of Attorney has been the council despite being the sec- and Otham ward, summed up frus- “It does have a local impact, of opposition, and I have no prob- vant to the borough. I will cer- handled? ond largest party at the town hall trations in that part of Maidstone in course, but it is not something a lems in terms of personal fulfil- tainly miss her and I know because they have a power-shar- a Tweet on March 30. member on Maidstone Borough ment. But it is the strategic side of colleagues will, too.” ing arrangement with smaller It read: “Views on the doorsteps: Council can control.” Whitehead Monckton has considerable groups. had enough of Brexit / just get on Leader of the opposition Tory experience in helping clients to resolve these It does mean, however, they with Brexit / let’s just leave / it’ll group at the town hall, Cllr John A tough ba“le ahead will have to retain all their seats to have to be a compromise ... but over- Perry, said: “We’ve had some very difficult disagreements and in many cases stay in charge but, more crucially, all, just get on with it.” positive feedback. But some people THE 2015 result in High Street, the Tories will have to do the Labour activist Malcolm McKay have told us they’ll never vote which Cllr Fran Wilson won with achieving excellent financial results. same and perhaps gain four or said: “People are fed up with politics again.” a majority of just 117 (3%), might five more. suggest it is a Tory target. Call us today on Some Tory insiders think it un- The sizeable presence (21%) of likely this time round, but may Ukip in 2015 and a theoretical re- put themselves within touching Targeting the crucial postal votes distribution of the vote to the To- 01622 698047 distance by 2020 when another ries and Labour would also point for an initial no obligation consultation by phone. tranche of winnable seats will THE postal vote will probably de- At a time of disillusionment 2 could be hard. So postal votes to an easy Conservative victory. cide the balance of power on with politics and when turnout is are a guarantee that pledges will come along. But several factors indicate the E-mail [email protected] Elections take place in the fol- Maidstone Borough Council on expected to be low, keeping the convert to votes.” Tories face a Herculean task. lowing wards: Allington, May 2. message local will be key. The Conservatives have numer- A Conservative insider told us: Bearsted, Boxley, Coxheath and Activists will hope to have a A Tory activist said: “You’d ical superiority over the Liberal “In 2018, the Lib Dems’ Clive Hunton, Detling and Thurnham, leaflet or personal communication think we would be getting stick Democrats but the latter can de- English (pictured) won the same sient bedsit residents and others Downswood and Otham, East, on the voters’ doormats on or be- over Brexit, but we’re not. People liver a working majority, with the ward by 16%. The population has who are simply not engaged or in- www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Fant, Harrietsham and Lenham, fore the postal vote slips come in. can see these elections are about help of independents. mushroomed from 6,000 to more terested. High Street, Leeds, Loose, Mar- Whiteheadwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in A Labour party worker said: local issues such as housing, lack The postal vote is attractive to than 7,000 and the demographic is “Add in Brexit and the fact that & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne den and Yalding, North, Shepway “Some wards have a 50% postal of roads and the awful traffic. the elderly or infirm. Postal vot- against us. we’re not popular at the moment Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by North, South, Staplehurst, Sutton vote, so those contests will be de- “But they’ve had enough of pol- ers have to register first and post “There are a lot of single mums means we have probably got no the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. Valence and Langley. termined prior to polling day.” itics and getting them out on May the slip back before polling day. with children under five, tran- chance.” DM2019

Maidstone May 2019 11 News downsmail.co.uk Plan to open distillery bar Election forms mix-up THE location of a new Maidstone distillery has been earmarked for a former hairdressers. A planning application was sub- a blow for Lib Dems mitted to convert the Urban Escape THE failure of a Liberal Democ- vote. The Labour candidate is unit in Market Buildings. The pro- rat candidate to get his nomina- Maureen Cleator, a local woman. posals also include creating a visi- tion forms in on time has thrown A Labour spokesman said: tor centre, tour opportunities, a wide open one of the most hotly- “We’ll give it a good go.” shop of spirits and merchandise, contested wards in the borough in A Tory spokesman said: “Rob’s and, in time, a bar where cus- recent years. a really nice guy. These things hap- tomers can make their own spirits. Cllr Rob Field (pictured), the in- pen, but I suppose it blows the If successful, it will be run by cumbent and deputy leader of the whole election wide open.” Bearsted dad-of-three Darren local Liberal Democrats, missed With the balance of power deli- Graves (42), along with his wife, the April 4 deadline, to the “frus- cately poised, the loss of a seat Sam and master distiller, Gerard tration” of one colleague. without even contesting it is a blow Evans, producing gin, rum, vodka It means that the Lib Dems will to the Lib Dems and gives an un- and whisky using a 400-litre still. have no presence in North ward, expected window for the Tories. where there are four other candi- The Tories are the numerically dates, including the new Tory front and Labour. most superior party in the town New director runner, Robert Eves. Cllr Clive English said: “He's hall, but the Lib Dems have an al- STAGECOACH South East has ap- Cllr Field blamed his campaign been a very effective councillor, liance with smaller parties to run pointed Joel Mitchell as its manag- team for a “mix-up with the dates” Rob, but he didn't get his papers in. Maidstone Borough Council. ing director. for the Maidstone Borough Coun- It is frustrating.” The Conservatives would need Mr Mitchell (42), from Kent, joins cil poll on May 2. Cllr Field won the seat from the to pull off at least five gains and re- Stagecoach from c2c Rail and lives He added: “I didn’t get them in, Tories at a by-election. The Con- tain existing seats, which most be- in Harrietsham. no. It was left with the campaign servatives had narrowly won the lieve is unlikely on current form. He is the vice-chairman of gov- team and there was an error over seat by 25 votes in a shock victory Standing in North ward are: ernors at the local primary school, the dates, I believe. It is very frus- in 2015. Steve Bax (UKIP), Steve Cheese- coaches the Under 10s at Maid- trating but these things happen.” Observers feel that Labour, who man (Green Party), Maureen stone Rugby Club and is a keen The seat is now likely to be a came fourth four years ago, will go Cleator (Labour) and Robert Eves volunteer in the community. two-way fight between the Tories all out to scoop up the left of centre (Conservative Party).

12 Maidstone May 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Sunday 5 May 2019 Plan to open Starting and finishing at distillery bar Election forms mix-up Harrietsham Village Hall ME17 1AP THE location of a new Maidstone $456789:; distillery has been earmarked for a $/0,#1%23 !"#$%&'#(#)*+,#(-". former hairdressers. A planning application was sub- a blow for Lib Dems mitted to convert the Urban Escape THE failure of a Liberal Democ- vote. The Labour candidate is unit in Market Buildings. The pro- DEAA;=# rat candidate to get his nomina- Maureen Cleator, a local woman. posals also include creating a visi- tion forms in on time has thrown A Labour spokesman said: tor centre, tour opportunities, a wide open one of the most hotly- “We’ll give it a good go.” shop of spirits and merchandise, contested wards in the borough in A Tory spokesman said: “Rob’s and, in time, a bar where cus- recent years. a really nice guy. These things hap- tomers can make their own spirits. Cllr Rob Field (pictured), the in- pen, but I suppose it blows the If successful, it will be run by 7#9I#I996#I9NE7;6#I4A5H>#I;785K585;7#4=;#N9A5:G#89#$456789:;L7#$98;#14=J## beautiful Kent countryside in support of Heart of Kent Hospice. Mr Mitchell (42), from Kent, joins cil poll on May 2. Cllr Field won the seat from the to pull off at least five gains and re- 8M57#7EAA;=#O58M#4#=4:G;#9I#NM5H6=;:L7#;:8;=845:A;:87P#4#A9E8M'O48;=5:G#N9AQ5:4859:## Dogs welcome Stagecoach from c2c Rail and lives He added: “I didn’t get them in, Tories at a by-election. The Con- tain existing seats, which most be- 9I#I996#R#6=5:J#89G;8M;=#O58M#79A;#89C#:98NM#H5K;#AE75N@ in Harrietsham. no. It was left with the campaign servatives had narrowly won the lieve is unlikely on current form. # For more information please visit: <=564>?#"(@--4A'B@--CA Sponsored by: He is the vice-chairman of gov- team and there was an error over seat by 25 votes in a shock victory Standing in North ward are: www.zoomevents.co.uk Register now D48E=64>?#"-@--4A'B@--CA ernors at the local primary school, the dates, I believe. It is very frus- in 2015. Steve Bax (UKIP), Steve Cheese- [email protected] Visit: www.hokh.org/events /zoomeventsuk DE:64>?#""@--4A'F@--CA Tel: 01622 790195 coaches the Under 10s at Maid- trating but these things happen.” Observers feel that Labour, who man (Green Party), Maureen @zoomeventsuk #MaidstoneFoodFest Email: [email protected] stone Rugby Club and is a keen The seat is now likely to be a came fourth four years ago, will go Cleator (Labour) and Robert Eves @zoomeventsuk volunteer in the community. two-way fight between the Tories all out to scoop up the left of centre (Conservative Party). Heart of Kent Hospice @Heartofkenthosp @heartofkenthospice

WED 5th JUNE WED 26th JUNE

London Coach Trip FRI 21st JUNE WED 10th JULY WED 19th JUNE

Maidstone May 2019 13 Business Focus downsmail.co.uk

A personal service at a time of loss Michael Lawrence, difficult decisions about how best to remember celebrates life. and his son Robert a loved one and to meet their personal wishes. "Our approach is simple. We sit with you in our along with Kim and With so many years’ experience, Family office or your home, taking you slowly and Angela, are the Funeral Service has learned how to respond to methodically through the various decisions that team behind a the specific and different needs of every you will face and the options available to you. family-owned individual facing one of the toughest times in Sometimes, it’s just good to sit funeral service that their life. This personalised approach includes and talk, and to learn about has been helping the option of home visits and access to a the services and venues families across the friendly voice at the end of the phone around available from someone with Maidstone area for the clock, as well as personal support to clients experience and compassion 40 years. through the bereavement process. before making a decision.” With offices in Bearsted and Barming, Family Michael Lawrence said: "The loss of a loved Funeral Service is a third generation business, one is never easy to cope with, and the added experienced in caring for your needs with stress of making arrangements for the service commitment and understanding. can often bring further emotional upset. With At such a stressful time, they know it’s our experience of making funeral arrangements important to sit and talk to you about every we have learned how to help families have and detail and to assist you in making the often be part of a unique and meaningful service that

4 Cavendish Way, Find us at: Marlborough Parade, Ashford Road, Bearsted, 6 Beverley Road, Barming Funeral Planner Of The Year 2018 Maidstone ME15 8PW Maidstone ME16 9JN South East London Region Winner 01622 260200 01622 260210

14 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Top level specialist care at Eye 2 Eye Eye2Eye is already one of the top local Therapeutic Specialist Optometrist Chirag has commitment to provide the best service for providers of enhanced optical services - now been invited to join the team at Moorfield their patients, without compromise. Their providing specialist eye care in the community Hospital in London as a specialist in the higher qualifications mean they are eye since 2012 - but now its expertise has been Glaucoma, Urgent Care and External disease & specialists - not just opticians - providing the taken to a whole new level. Cornea clinics. Chirag said: “It’s always been a only accredited Primary Care Acute personal goal of mine to work and train with the Ophthalmology service for the Maidstone area. very best in the world, and I feel really grateful The brothers can, therefore, accept and treat a for the opportunity that has come my way.” wide range of emergency or acute eye Chirag will still work at Eye 2 Eye, bringing the referrals; walk-ins; optician or GP referrals; as best care home to the practice’s patients, too. well as those from the NHS 111 service and The practice, in the Mid Kent Shopping A&E. Chirag and Manish are also part of a Centre in Allington, is the only one of its kind select group of optometrists able to issue in Maidstone, with resident therapeutic prescriptions. This high quality offering extends optometrists. to the practice’s state-of-the-art technology, Brothers Chirag and Manish Patel have grown including equipment such as the OCT eye up in the area and pride themselves on building scanner, and lenses used in their glasses from a practice with a loyal following; They have a the world-renowned manufacturer Nikon. tremendous sense of community and a Come and experience the finest eye care in the safest hands.

Find us at: Unit 8, Mid-Kent Shopping Centre Castle Road, Allington, Maidstone Kent ME16 0PU 01622 672563 E:[email protected] www.eye2eye.care Protection against the “Armageddon scenario”

When preparing your Will, you should including a common tragedy or ultimate consider what you would like to happen default clause within your Will. This could The Kent Law Firm to your estate on your death. In typical provide for friends to benefit from your 01622 scenarios, you may wish to leave your estate, or perhaps even your preferred For details of the full range of our services, estate to your children, grandchildren or charity. As well as providing certainty in other family members. However, what your Will and knowing that your estate please refer to www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk 698000 would happen to your estate if the will pass to persons or organisations of “ultimate disaster” occurs, and you die at your choosing, it may also provide some the same time as your beneficiaries? positive benefit. Whitehead Monckton appreciate that it If the worst happened and you and your A well-publicised case on this scenario is is difficult to contemplate what you wish beneficiaries passed away together, the the case of Mr Cousins. Mr Cousins died to happen in the event of your death, and gift would fail and your estate would pass in 2017 in a plane crash, together with his our Tax and Estate Planning department in accordance with the Intestacy Rules. two sons, his fiancé and her daughter. As are here to assist you in providing peace of This may mean that your estate would they all passed away together, they could mind that your affairs will be dealt with in pass to your first surviving relatives, not benefit from the residue of his estate. accordance with your wishes and feelings. whom you may not wish to benefit from However, Mr Cousins had a common If you would like more information on your wealth. If you do not have any tragedy clause in his Will, which took common tragedy clauses or the Intestacy surviving relatives, your estate would effect and Oxfam benefitted from the Rules, please do not hesitate to contact a ultimately pass to the Crown, and many residue of his rather sizeable estate. member of our team. people are not aware that this would be the case and it would not be their wish to The Kent Law Firm do so. 01622 In order to protect against this unlikely For details of the full range of our services, eventuality, you may wish to consider please refer to www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk 698000

Maidstone May 2019 15 LEEDS CASTLE CELEBRATES SPECIAL EVENTS… MEET SOME OF THE TEAM…

A SERIES of special events and activities are planned Name: Marina McCullen (52) for 2019 to celebrate the 900th anniversary of Leeds Lives in: Lenham, Kent Castle in Kent. Job at castle: Castle Steward Set in the Kent countryside, the Castle boasts grand medieval How long in job: Nine years and 1930s interiors as well as a 500-acre estate with parkland, Best part of job: e constant development of a job that 900 years is sharing the story of such a beautiful and historically itself has been a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and important location and the involvement we have during our short but rewarding time involved in the castle's Georgian mansion; an elegant early 20th century retreat for the continuing history.

one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Name: Mark Brattle (36) events planned for ‘Leeds Castle 900’: Lives in: Maidstone LEEDS Castle, famously described as the “loveliest castle in the Job at castle: Falconry & Wildlife Manager How long in job: Been at the castle for seven years, and world”, celebrates a special milestone in 2019 – its 900th birthday. May in current role for just over a year. • Motors by the Moat: May 11 & 12 Best part of job: Working with and looking aer A HOST of special events has been organised over the with its own story. Leeds Castle, however, has a wonderfully • Medieval Jousting Tournament: May 25 - 27 mazing creatures, working with some brilliant sta all coming months which will not only toast this remarkable varied history and our aim throughout 2019 is to encourage as • Awards Presentation ceremony in the Castle Library in the setting of a beautiful castle. moment in time but allow even more people to discover its many people as possible to visit, to enjoy this amazing estate with Clare Balding for the winners of the 900 story magic. From medieval jousting, open air theatre and cinema, and to learn of the relevance of Leeds Castle over so many writing competition announced: May 30 generations. Any birthday is a cause of celebration and, (Story Competition Winners Only) by royal appointment, no aspect of this special place will not engaging with the local and wider communities, we hope to deliver many events which will bring pleasure to as many people Name: Gemma Wright (34) as possible. June Lives in: Ashford • Leeds Castle Triathlon: June 29 & 30 – New 900 medal Job at castle: Senior PR and Filming Ocer promises to be a glorious riot of summer colour. A What is the best part of the job? for competitors How long in job: Nine years procession of enactors in dazzling large-scale costumes will Being part of a great team. We are blessed with about 300 paid Best part of job: It never feels like work. No two days process throughout the castle and it parkland, culminating • Gardens week at Leeds Castle are ever the same as my job is so diverse. One day I could leaving the Royal Navy I never expected again to work alongside be hosting a media conference or writing an article about July Steel, have spent two years planning and executing this a group of people as dedicated as those I had served with in the what’s coming up, and the next, managing a Bollywood salute to one of the world’s great treasure houses. navy; I was quite wrong – I found them at Leeds Castle. lm shoot or lming with Danny Dyer. • Classical Concert: July 13 and premier of ‘A Tribute to SIR David Steel has been in post as What is the most challenging? Leeds Castle’ - special 900 Anthem chief executive of Leeds Castle for Leeds Castle is probably unique. An independent charity, Name: David Hay eld (30) four years after a long career as a with no external sources of income other than that generated Lives in: Lenham by our own endeavours, the challenge is always to ensure that August Job at Leeds Castle: Gardener Here • Open Air Cinema – ‘Mamma Mia 2’: August 2 How long in job: Nearly four years opportunities presented by the while being sure that the particular character of such a 900th anniversary celebrations… famous heritage site is never compromised. My pride is Best part of the job: e exciting range of gardens to reserved for all who work here, who labour so hard to sustain work in, especially the large Mediterranean Garden. How far in advance of the 900th anniversary celebrations did you an ancient estate and bring so much pleasure to all who visit start planning? and stay. September Just under two years ago. We have worked hard to create not • Festival of Flowers – ‘A Floral Party’: September 14 -19 only a range of events and activities which will be appealing to How would you like to see Leeds Castle in 100 years’ time? all ages and a broad range of visitors, but also that the history of In 1974 Lady Baillie, the last private owner of Leeds October FOR more information and prices please visit the website Leeds Castle and its importance in British history reaches out Castle, created a charity to ensure the stewardship of www.leeds-castle.com. • Halloween: October 22 - 28 to many more than those who can actually visit. of the public. My greatest hope is that her wishes continue It looks like an enormous undertaking, what do you hope to November one-hour’s drive from London. Grounds open at 10am daily achieve from it? heart of the local community, not just over the next 100 • Fireworks: November 2 & 3 and the Castle is open from 10.30am. We are blessed with many castles across the , each years but forever. • Christmas at the Castle: November 24 – January 1, 2020

16 Maidstone May 2019 LEEDS CASTLE CELEBRATES SPECIAL EVENTS… MEET SOME OF THE TEAM…

A SERIES of special events and activities are planned Name: Marina McCullen (52) for 2019 to celebrate the 900th anniversary of Leeds Lives in: Lenham, Kent Castle in Kent. Job at castle: Castle Steward Set in the Kent countryside, the Castle boasts grand medieval How long in job: Nine years and 1930s interiors as well as a 500-acre estate with parkland, Best part of job: e constant development of a job that 900 years is sharing the story of such a beautiful and historically itself has been a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England’s medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and important location and the involvement we have during our short but rewarding time involved in the castle's Georgian mansion; an elegant early 20th century retreat for the continuing history.

one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Name: Mark Brattle (36) events planned for ‘Leeds Castle 900’: Lives in: Maidstone LEEDS Castle, famously described as the “loveliest castle in the Job at castle: Falconry & Wildlife Manager How long in job: Been at the castle for seven years, and world”, celebrates a special milestone in 2019 – its 900th birthday. May in current role for just over a year. • Motors by the Moat: May 11 & 12 Best part of job: Working with and looking aer A HOST of special events has been organised over the with its own story. Leeds Castle, however, has a wonderfully • Medieval Jousting Tournament: May 25 - 27 mazing creatures, working with some brilliant sta all coming months which will not only toast this remarkable varied history and our aim throughout 2019 is to encourage as • Awards Presentation ceremony in the Castle Library in the setting of a beautiful castle. moment in time but allow even more people to discover its many people as possible to visit, to enjoy this amazing estate with Clare Balding for the winners of the 900 story magic. From medieval jousting, open air theatre and cinema, and to learn of the relevance of Leeds Castle over so many writing competition announced: May 30 generations. Any birthday is a cause of celebration and, (Story Competition Winners Only) by royal appointment, no aspect of this special place will not engaging with the local and wider communities, we hope to deliver many events which will bring pleasure to as many people Name: Gemma Wright (34) as possible. June Lives in: Ashford • Leeds Castle Triathlon: June 29 & 30 – New 900 medal Job at castle: Senior PR and Filming Ocer promises to be a glorious riot of summer colour. A What is the best part of the job? for competitors How long in job: Nine years procession of enactors in dazzling large-scale costumes will Being part of a great team. We are blessed with about 300 paid Best part of job: It never feels like work. No two days process throughout the castle and it parkland, culminating • Gardens week at Leeds Castle are ever the same as my job is so diverse. One day I could leaving the Royal Navy I never expected again to work alongside be hosting a media conference or writing an article about July Steel, have spent two years planning and executing this a group of people as dedicated as those I had served with in the what’s coming up, and the next, managing a Bollywood salute to one of the world’s great treasure houses. navy; I was quite wrong – I found them at Leeds Castle. lm shoot or lming with Danny Dyer. • Classical Concert: July 13 and premier of ‘A Tribute to SIR David Steel has been in post as What is the most challenging? Leeds Castle’ - special 900 Anthem chief executive of Leeds Castle for Leeds Castle is probably unique. An independent charity, Name: David Hay eld (30) four years after a long career as a with no external sources of income other than that generated Lives in: Lenham by our own endeavours, the challenge is always to ensure that August Job at Leeds Castle: Gardener Here • Open Air Cinema – ‘Mamma Mia 2’: August 2 How long in job: Nearly four years opportunities presented by the while being sure that the particular character of such a 900th anniversary celebrations… famous heritage site is never compromised. My pride is Best part of the job: e exciting range of gardens to reserved for all who work here, who labour so hard to sustain work in, especially the large Mediterranean Garden. How far in advance of the 900th anniversary celebrations did you an ancient estate and bring so much pleasure to all who visit start planning? and stay. September Just under two years ago. We have worked hard to create not • Festival of Flowers – ‘A Floral Party’: September 14 -19 only a range of events and activities which will be appealing to How would you like to see Leeds Castle in 100 years’ time? all ages and a broad range of visitors, but also that the history of In 1974 Lady Baillie, the last private owner of Leeds October FOR more information and prices please visit the website Leeds Castle and its importance in British history reaches out Castle, created a charity to ensure the stewardship of www.leeds-castle.com. • Halloween: October 22 - 28 to many more than those who can actually visit. of the public. My greatest hope is that her wishes continue It looks like an enormous undertaking, what do you hope to November one-hour’s drive from London. Grounds open at 10am daily achieve from it? heart of the local community, not just over the next 100 • Fireworks: November 2 & 3 and the Castle is open from 10.30am. We are blessed with many castles across the United Kingdom, each years but forever. • Christmas at the Castle: November 24 – January 1, 2020

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Maidstone Weald October 2017 29 “Safe bathrooms Sprinp g Easy Access Bathrooms at sensible prices”

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Maidstone East May 2016 13 20 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Nathan back Axed taxi scheme hits on his bike WHEN Nathaniel Hurley (12) outgrew his tricycle wheelchair, he faced immobility – but now ‘most disadvantaged’ Maidstone has united to help THE axing of a £50,000 scheme MBC contracted the service out him. which helped hundreds of Maid- to Age UK Maidstone, which Nathaniel, of Lombardy Drive, stone’s most vulnerable people printed off the vouchers and ad- Maidstone, suffers from quadri- has come under fire. ministered the scheme before plegic cerebral palsy and, for the As of April 1, Maidstone Bor- billing the council. Successful ap- last six years, has depended on ough Council has stopped giving plicants received £70 in vouchers, his specialised tricycle for life out- funding to Age UK Maidstone, valid for a year, to use with partic- side his home. which administered the Disability ipating taxi and community trans- He now needs a larger trike, but Travel Voucher (DTV) scheme. port organisations. the £4,000 cost of a replacement The scheme was aimed at resi- Chairman of Age UK Maidstone was unaffordable for his family. dents who are too ill or disabled to Bryan Vizzard (pictured) said: “We However, when the Rotary make essential journeys on public did urge the borough council to Club of Maidstone was alerted, it transport. think again and made the case for led to a team effort among fellow MBC blames central government keeping the scheme, but the deci- service clubs and a town charity. cuts and first made the decision to sion had already been made at Now the two Rotary clubs of axe the DTV in March 2017. committee level. Maidstone and Maidstone River- Independent borough council- “My feeling is that the scheme side, Maidstone Lions and the lor, Eddie Powell, said: “The MBC for her vouchers, only to discover probably needed some sort of re- Bennett Paine Trust (through leadership managed to find the scheme had ended. view, but we are seeing the loss of a Maidstone solicitors Brachers) £50,000 to attempt a doomed High The woman, who asked not to be valuable service to the most disad- have each contributed £750 to add Court judicial review against an- named, told Downs Mail: “I am vantaged members of society.” to the £1,000 put up by other local authority, yet takes fortunate in having the means to MBC said it had taken the deci- Nathaniel’s family. away funds from the very people make other arrangements, but I sion to remove the grants after con- The manufacturers agreed to who are the fabric of our society.” feel for many, many others who do sidering the scheme and budgets at supply within six weeks and the An 88-year-old Loose woman, not and saw this excellent scheme two committees – Policy and Re- tricycle was due to be handed who has arthritis and is partially as a lifeline. Now it has been taken sources, and Strategic Planning, over to Nathaniel as Downs Mail sighted, asked her son to reapply away. It is a great, great pity.” Sustainability and Transportation. went to press. Business Focus Denture care to make you smile SB Denture Design Ltd (formerly known as SB repairs and adjustments through to new sets we Dental Laboratory) are now pleased to offer our can offer a complete denture care service. SB Denture Design Ltd offer services directly to the public. SB was founded in Although the work is done ‘in house’ with 1989, producing quality denture work for dentists partial dentures and other more complex cases FREE consultations and can in Maidstone and the surrounding areas. we work closely with the dentist. It is essential advise you on the best Since then Steve, the founder of SB Denture that the health of any remaining teeth are denture options available. Design has been clinically trained so we are able checked out before denture construction. This is to provide our services directly to you. He gained necessary to ensure the prosthesis is a long term further clinical qualifications at the University of solution. We can accept referrals from you own Central Lancashire (with merit) and this enables dentist or we can arrange an appointment with him to treat patients directly thus alleviating the one of our dental colleagues at your first need to visit the dentist for the impressions, appointment. denture try in and the fitting of the dentures. Any Having the laboratory on the premises reduces necessary after care would be provided by us as the waiting time for some services, some services well. With over 25 years of experience in like repairs can even be done while you wait. It is manufacturing all styles of dental appliances, we also an advantage as some larger adjustments can now hand craft your dentures for you from can be done in house start to finish. By dealing directly with the We pride ourselves in making sure everyone we technician who will make your dentures we can treat is happy with the product we produce and tailor your prosthesis to your own personal want our patients to have the confidence that individual requirements. their denture has been constructed with the Using only the highest quality materials and all utmost care and using only quality materials. Our the latest technologies you are guaranteed a aim is to make people comfortable with our product of the very highest standard. From treatment and confident with our product.

T: 01622 766077 SB Denture Design Ltd E: [email protected] 2 Wallis Avenue Maidstone, W: www.sbdentures.co.uk Kent ME15 9DX

Maidstone May 2019 21 News downsmail.co.uk Mote Park dam floods warning BULLDOZERS are poised to Reservoir from Turkey Mill Pond, move into Mote Park in a major centres around building a second, operation to protect part of the 60m-wide spillway to control the borough from potentially cata- release of water during extreme strophic flooding. flooding, if pressure on the dam Engineers are asking Maid- threatens to destroy it or cause the stone’s planning chiefs for permis- reservoir to overflow. sion to carry out “significant” Ms Geary said: “Failure of the works on a 140m dam, which stops dam would result in downstream 200,000m³ of reservoir water from flooding of Turkey Mill Business barrelling down the River Len into Park and several areas of housing ‘Cheetara’ run for cats Turkey Mill. along the River Len.” AN ANIMAL lover from Maidstone cats through the charity. I will al- The works, they say, are “exten- Engineers anticipate around 30 ran the London Landmarks half- ways put photos of our foster cats sive” and will have a considerable trees would be felled and large marathon as a cheetah to raise needing homes on the notice- impact “on the recreational quality amounts of earth excavated. more than £500 for Cats Protec- board at work. of the park, visual appearance and The 12-hectare Mote Park Lake tion. “I’ve been running for 20 years. biodiversity”. Reservoir was formed between Lucy Dugher, of , For me it’s really good for mind, In a report to Maidstone Borough 1793 and 1800, when the River Len dressed up as Cheetara, from the body and soul. It gets me out in Council’s planning committee, case was dammed. 80s cartoon ThunderCats, for the the fresh air and into countryside officer Marion Geary said she Ms Geary said a 10-yearly review 13-mile challenge. and where I can let my mind wan- recognised the “substantial harm” of the dam’s safety concluded the The 45-year-old, who is married der. It’s excellent stress relief, it’s the work would have on the park, reservoir does not meet modern- to Richard, said: “I have three res- therapeutic and the countryside is but said the council’s “statutory day standards. cue cats. I enjoy their personali- beautiful.” duty to comply with safety re- The work would last four to six ties. They are fascinating, funny Lucy’s fundraising page is quirements ... outweigh that harm.” weeks and was due to be debated and amazing. My mum volunteers https://www.justgiving.com/fundr Work on the embankment dam, by MBC’s planning committee as for Cats Protection and we foster aising/lucy-dugher. which separates Mote Park Lake Downs Mail went to press.

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22 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk Health | News CCGs merge for beer care A MAJOR change is being made in commissioning and providing Maidstone area local health serv- ices “in an endeavour to respond to population needs”. For six years this has been the re- sponsibility of the budget-holding GP-led NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). Be- Cancer care misses targets fore that Maidstone was served by MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells hospital trust is still seriously a primary care trust. missing cancer targets – and West Kent CCG continues its harm re- But the plan now is that the eight view process. CCGs covering Kent and Medway To date there has been no example of patient harm due to de- will merge, to provide a leadership lays. system and strategic more cost-ef- aligning local health, social, com- The national target for treatment within 62 days from diagno- fective commissioning. The struc- munity and primary care. sis is 95% of patients but the trust achieved only 63.3% in Janu- ture could be in place by 2020. Dr Bob Bowes (pictured), chair- ary. In addition there will be about man of NHS West Kent CCG (pic- four integrated care partnerships tured), said: “Kent and Medway serving Kent and Medway to en- have been working towards a Ambulance times failing sure the needs of the local popula- greater integration of commission- LOCAL ambulance services are missing all the new national tar- tion are met, including one for ing services to respond better to the gets covering life-threatening, urgent and non-urgent calls. Maidstone area and the rest of local health needs of the popula- For the two most urgent categories the under-performance by West Kent. tion. In the coming months we will SECAmb is at least two minutes. A joint NHS service investiga- There will also be a larger num- work with all CCG members to tion is taking place. ber of primary care networks agree the best way forward.”

01622 829183 Visit our showroom to view www.balinea.co.uk our full range of beautiful bathrooms E: [email protected] Unit 5 Kilnbridge Works, Off Lower Road, East Farleigh, Maidstone Kent ME15 0HD

Maidstone May 2019 23 News downsmail.co.uk Rail access blow to disabled Call for the CAMPAIGNERS say they are disappointed by a government decision to reject their pleas to make four stations in the borough accessible to the disabled. They say the Department for However, the six stations from “We understand there is a mid- Transport’s decision to side-line Kent vying for the money have term application period for fund- strong cases made by users of learned their campaigns have ing for improvements that can be Maidstone West, Marden, Head- failed and they will be unable to delivered with less than £1m in corn and Lenham leaves the sta- reapply for another five years. government aid, which we could tions stuck in the 1800s. Parish councillor Simon Even- go for, and suggestions of alter- BDL Gas Services Campaigners say disabled peo- den, a wheelchair user from native cash that could allow lifts ple and parents with pushchairs , has led the campaign to be fitted to the existing foot- A family Run Business are forced to struggle or use other for improvements at the village’s bridge over the line.” •Driveways Email: [email protected] stations because of the lack of lifts station. Maidstone and The Weald MP Twitter: @BDLGas at theirs. He has to travel to Staplehurst, Helen Grant, who backed the bids •Tar & Grit The government’s £300 million where there are lifts, to get access for Maidstone West and Marden, • Gas and Electric fires • Central heating systems grant was seen by many as a real between platforms. has asked for a meeting with Nus- •Tarmacadam • Stone, Marble, Granite and installed opportunity to redress the bal- He told Downs Mail: “We will rat Ghani MP, the minister for Wood Fireplaces • Boiler Breakdowns ance, with improvements that not give up the fight. The parish transport. •Footpaths • Fully Bespoke Installation • Service and Repair Gas would bring the stations into the council has agreed that we will Mrs Grant said: “I will not sim- service 21st century by making them ac- look for alternative ways of mak- ply roll-over and accept this deci- •Block Paving appliances • Free surveys • Landlord Certificates Transport minister Nusrat Ghani cessible to all. ing these vital changes happen.” sion – it is too important.” •Car Parks Fly-tipping Council Approved Drop Kerbs Street pastors’ work rewarded Quote the Free Estimates Downsmail cost to farms THE work of the Maidstone Street FLYTIPPERS have been ac- Pastors' team has been recognised cused of costing farmers the by the High Sheriff of Kent. 01622 741183 earth by dumping harmful The Christian team was singled waste in the countryside. out for its work alongside the po- 01622 862035 The latest figures released lice, paramedics and the “Urban by the Department for Envi- Blue” bus project to provide sup- 07771 523799 Showroom: 9 High Street Rainham Kent ME8 7HX ronment, Food and Rural Af- port to those in need on the streets fairs (Defra) shows councils of Maidstone town centre on Sat- 01634 232048 received 551 reports of rub- www.rssurfacing.com urday nights. www.BDLGasServices.co.uk bish dumped on farmland in Maidstone's Rubicon Cares, the South East in 2017/18. which provides counselling for vic- Described as just the “tip of tims of crime, was also honoured. the iceberg”, the Defra statis- High Sheriff Jane Ashton pre- tics, which log a national total sented the teams with a certificate of 79,307 cases, do not include at County Hall, Maidstone. the majority of incidents on private land. In Maidstone, 1,041 reports of flytipping were received Accredited Hypnotherapy and there were 507 in Ton- Soul star Geno at fringe festival bridge and Malling during 2017/18. THE soul legend who inspired Up to 10,000 music fans are ex- & NLP Training When it comes to rubbish the ‘80s anthem “Geno” will star pected to enjoy shows by more at this year’s Maidstone Fringe than 100 live bands, DJs and per- dumped in the countryside, Commencing May 2019 estimates show farmers are Festival, Make Some Noise. formers at 17 town venues. cleaning up after others at an Geno Washington (75) features The event, supported by traders Accredited Training in Hyponotherapy average cost of £1,000 per inci- with The Yoyos and support from and One Maidstone BID, will fea- dent. They are also liable to King Size Slim at Pizza Express ture ska, reggae, punk, hip-hop, on Saturday, May 4, as the six-day Indie and rock offerings from the prosecution and fines if the Also Business Coaching & Development rubbish damages the land. festival (May 1–6).builds to its fi- likes of Nine Below Zero, the nale on Bank Holiday Monday. Track Dogs, The Dub Pistols, Insurance specialist Will Accredited by the Hypnotherapy Association Kendrick, who advises farm- Born in America, the US airman Maidstone artist Clea Llewellyn, ers in the South East, said: became known for impromptu Brix And The Extricated featuring “Flytipping is not only visu- gigs in London while stationed Brix Smith, and Steve and Paul ally impactful and a nuisance here, and played alongside James Hanley from The Fall. – it can be a source of pollu- Brown, Ronnie Wood and Ian Festival founder Clive Austen, Call Patricia Whitson 07711140201 tion. Brown, inspiring Dexy’s Mid- from Barming, said: “It’s a fantas- Email [email protected] “For those unfortunate night Runners’ iconic track in tic opener to the warmer weather, www.kentcollegeofhypnotherapy.co.uk enough to have a flytipping support of Northern Soul. with some of the best local For one to one sessions visit That track prompted Geno to sounds. Some are obviously tick- ‘hotspot’ on their land, costs www.mindconnections.co.uk. soon tot up and pose a threat return to the stage after studying eted, but around 90% are free.” hypnosis and writing The Blood More at www.makesomenois- to their business.” Brothers. estudio.co.uk.

24 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 25 News downsmail.co.uk Rail access blow to disabled Call for the CAMPAIGNERS say they are disappointed by a government decision to reject their pleas to make four stations in the borough accessible to the disabled. They say the Department for However, the six stations from “We understand there is a mid- Transport’s decision to side-line Kent vying for the money have term application period for fund- strong cases made by users of learned their campaigns have ing for improvements that can be Maidstone West, Marden, Head- failed and they will be unable to delivered with less than £1m in corn and Lenham leaves the sta- reapply for another five years. government aid, which we could tions stuck in the 1800s. Parish councillor Simon Even- go for, and suggestions of alter- BDL Gas Services Campaigners say disabled peo- den, a wheelchair user from native cash that could allow lifts ple and parents with pushchairs Headcorn, has led the campaign to be fitted to the existing foot- A family Run Business are forced to struggle or use other for improvements at the village’s bridge over the line.” •Driveways Email: [email protected] stations because of the lack of lifts station. Maidstone and The Weald MP Twitter: @BDLGas at theirs. He has to travel to Staplehurst, Helen Grant, who backed the bids •Tar & Grit The government’s £300 million where there are lifts, to get access for Maidstone West and Marden, • Gas and Electric fires • Central heating systems grant was seen by many as a real between platforms. has asked for a meeting with Nus- •Tarmacadam • Stone, Marble, Granite and installed opportunity to redress the bal- He told Downs Mail: “We will rat Ghani MP, the minister for Wood Fireplaces • Boiler Breakdowns ance, with improvements that not give up the fight. The parish transport. •Footpaths • Fully Bespoke Installation • Service and Repair Gas would bring the stations into the council has agreed that we will Mrs Grant said: “I will not sim- service 21st century by making them ac- look for alternative ways of mak- ply roll-over and accept this deci- •Block Paving appliances • Free surveys • Landlord Certificates Transport minister Nusrat Ghani cessible to all. ing these vital changes happen.” sion – it is too important.” •Car Parks Fly-tipping Council Approved Drop Kerbs Street pastors’ work rewarded Quote the Free Estimates Downsmail cost to farms THE work of the Maidstone Street FLYTIPPERS have been ac- Pastors' team has been recognised cused of costing farmers the by the High Sheriff of Kent. 01622 741183 earth by dumping harmful The Christian team was singled waste in the countryside. out for its work alongside the po- 01622 862035 The latest figures released lice, paramedics and the “Urban by the Department for Envi- Blue” bus project to provide sup- 07771 523799 Showroom: 9 High Street Rainham Kent ME8 7HX ronment, Food and Rural Af- port to those in need on the streets fairs (Defra) shows councils of Maidstone town centre on Sat- 01634 232048 received 551 reports of rub- www.rssurfacing.com urday nights. www.BDLGasServices.co.uk bish dumped on farmland in Maidstone's Rubicon Cares, the South East in 2017/18. which provides counselling for vic- Described as just the “tip of tims of crime, was also honoured. the iceberg”, the Defra statis- High Sheriff Jane Ashton pre- tics, which log a national total sented the teams with a certificate of 79,307 cases, do not include at County Hall, Maidstone. the majority of incidents on private land. In Maidstone, 1,041 reports of flytipping were received Accredited Hypnotherapy and there were 507 in Ton- Soul star Geno at fringe festival bridge and Malling during 2017/18. THE soul legend who inspired Up to 10,000 music fans are ex- & NLP Training When it comes to rubbish the ‘80s anthem “Geno” will star pected to enjoy shows by more at this year’s Maidstone Fringe than 100 live bands, DJs and per- dumped in the countryside, Commencing May 2019 estimates show farmers are Festival, Make Some Noise. formers at 17 town venues. cleaning up after others at an Geno Washington (75) features The event, supported by traders Accredited Training in Hyponotherapy average cost of £1,000 per inci- with The Yoyos and support from and One Maidstone BID, will fea- dent. They are also liable to King Size Slim at Pizza Express ture ska, reggae, punk, hip-hop, on Saturday, May 4, as the six-day Indie and rock offerings from the prosecution and fines if the Also Business Coaching & Development rubbish damages the land. festival (May 1–6).builds to its fi- likes of Nine Below Zero, the nale on Bank Holiday Monday. Track Dogs, The Dub Pistols, Insurance specialist Will Accredited by the Hypnotherapy Association Kendrick, who advises farm- Born in America, the US airman Maidstone artist Clea Llewellyn, ers in the South East, said: became known for impromptu Brix And The Extricated featuring “Flytipping is not only visu- gigs in London while stationed Brix Smith, and Steve and Paul ally impactful and a nuisance here, and played alongside James Hanley from The Fall. – it can be a source of pollu- Brown, Ronnie Wood and Ian Festival founder Clive Austen, Call Patricia Whitson 07711140201 tion. Brown, inspiring Dexy’s Mid- from Barming, said: “It’s a fantas- Email [email protected] “For those unfortunate night Runners’ iconic track in tic opener to the warmer weather, www.kentcollegeofhypnotherapy.co.uk enough to have a flytipping support of Northern Soul. with some of the best local For one to one sessions visit That track prompted Geno to sounds. Some are obviously tick- ‘hotspot’ on their land, costs www.mindconnections.co.uk. soon tot up and pose a threat return to the stage after studying eted, but around 90% are free.” hypnosis and writing The Blood More at www.makesomenois- to their business.” Brothers. estudio.co.uk.

Maidstone May 2019 25 News downsmail.co.uk Elderly ‘have so much to share’ CALL THE EXPERTS 01233 840624 IN SPITE of mobile phones and the internet, more and more elderly people in Maidstone are [email protected] looking for good old-fashioned face-to-face contact – and a chance to chat. Fred Hatcher, from Titchfield He adds: “Some memories are Close, is a classic example. At 91 harder than others, but there were the World War II veteran has an ac- wonderful times that make me The largest independently owned liquid tive mind, a highly-tuned sense of laugh, like working for Billy Cham- waste management company in the UK humour and a source of life-long bers at Shepway Farm in fields of memories of Maidstone. hops, strawberries and apples; www.mtscleansing.co.uk He featured in an Ealing black cramming Canadian airmen in my comedy, served as a retained fire- Austin 18 to taxi them to Headcorn man in the town, a papermill and taking the stars of Kind Hearts • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services worker, a highways technician for and Coronets from The Star in • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions Kent County Council, a “shilling Maidstone to film at Otham.” • Waste disposal & recyclingt taxi” driver, a bus conductor, an Another key event in his life was RAF telephonist, is a father of meeting his wife Thelma, who three, and fostered a dozen more lived in Barming. He said: “When I children. came back from leave with the HOODS TREE SERVICES LTD He told Downs Mail: “I’ve had RAF she told me, marry me now or TREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS everything: A wonderful life, a lov- never. She was a strong lady and ing wife, surrounded by beautiful we had a wonderful life and have Services include: children. I still want to do things, so many stories to tell.” but my bones are just a bit older. He hopes the wider public will £62 £31 Tree Reductions and Felling I’ve had great fun and love to share recognise the importance of what £76 £38 Stump Grinding my memories of all the things I’ve the elderly have given and still £76 £38 Hedge Cutting and Removal seen and done. I’d do it all again, Fred Hatcher has his first selfie, with Jess Sutton, from the Tudor Park have to share. Seasoned Logs given the chance.” managing his home, garden and Tudor Park in Bearsted. It was bril- Contact the Elderly is a national £104 £52 He rates friends, family and so- collection of photographs, books liant. They treated us like kings.” charity, with a base in Maidstone £166 £83 NPTC Qualified and fully insured cialising high on the list of things and newspaper cuttings, especially And Fred certainly has plenty to offering those aged 75+ living in Free quotes and advice provided that make him happy, relegating of Spitfires. talk about. He sees the RAF, which an 8-mile radius of the town a tea £94 £47 money to last place. He describes his monthly out- brought him discipline, as one of party one Sunday a month with a [email protected] - www.hoodstrees.co.uk He said: “Life is life, Brexit or £62 £31 ings through charity Contact the the major milestones in his life. host family. 01622 744149 - 07590 461382 not, it’s what you make of it.” Elderly as the best thing in his He remembers bombs falling in Free transport is provided. He concedes he is affected by diary. the town on Maidstone Museum Apply as a guest, host or volun- loneliness, not least as a widower. He said: “I love meeting up and and in George Street, which killed teer driver at www.contact-the- So getting out and meeting others chatting, what could be better? Our his Southborough School friend elderly.org.uk or call 0207 means a great deal, when he is not last gathering was at the Marriott Freddie Fiddament. 2400630. Today's Stalifts At Affdable Prices Fred was a conductor Mayor backs for Maidstone Bus War farewell 01622 756128 Corporation for just FRED joined the RAF in 1944 and 10 days. He loved the 07905-182363 befriending remembers his tearful mum and www.stairliftstoday.co.uk MAIDSTONE Mayor Cllr David job on the double- sister waving him off at Maid- Naghi made The West Kent Be- deckers between stone station. It was the first time [email protected] friending Service one of his cho- Barming and Loose, he had been out of the town on Straight New & Reconditioned Stairlifts sen charities. but when he refused his own. With Free Next Day Installation, From £995 He said: “One to cough up 10 cloth- Describing himself as “one of Reconditioned, Brand New From £1595 the lucky ones”, he spent the first of the greatest ing vouchers for his Curved Stairlifts From £3500 Reconditioned, part of his service at RAF Sun- Brand New From £4200, Installed within 7-14 Days gifts in life is that uniform, he was fired. of friendship, ninghill Park, Ascot, before being Sales - Servicing - Repairs - Removals having someone transferred when Princess Eliza- to talk with, to beth and Prince Philip planned to laugh with. We live there after their marriage. have so many Fred enjoys tending GREG LAURENSON older members in our community his garden and col- Friendly visit who are so richly deserving of lecting cuttings and PAINTING & DECORATING WEST Kent Befriending Service those relationships, but who feel photographs of offers dedicated volunteers to PROPERTY SERVICES that they are very much alone. wartime Maidstone. visit the lonely. “I have been inspired by the However, he misses With referrals coming in every Interior & Exterior Work willingness of people of all ages to sharing memories week, the free service is under get involved with The West Kent with Thelma, his wife pressure. Its Supporting Friend- Commercial & Domestic Befriending Service, bringing the of 45 years. ships Campaign invites everyone gift of friendship, putting smiles For him, and many to make a regular donation. It has Free Quotes on faces and a sense of belonging. others, meeting up already received pledges of sup- “I am very proud to have been with new-found port from Maidstone’s mayor and Reliable Quality Service asked to be an Ambassador of friends through Con- MPs. Find out more at Supporting Friendships, enabling tact The Elderly is a www.westkentbefriendingser- [email protected] me to continue my relationship life-line. with this wonderful charity.” vice.org.uk or call 0800 048 4668 07870 271 077

26 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 27 News downsmail.co.uk Elderly ‘have so much to share’ CALL THE EXPERTS 01233 840624 IN SPITE of mobile phones and the internet, more and more elderly people in Maidstone are [email protected] looking for good old-fashioned face-to-face contact – and a chance to chat. Fred Hatcher, from Titchfield He adds: “Some memories are Close, is a classic example. At 91 harder than others, but there were the World War II veteran has an ac- wonderful times that make me The largest independently owned liquid tive mind, a highly-tuned sense of laugh, like working for Billy Cham- waste management company in the UK humour and a source of life-long bers at Shepway Farm in fields of memories of Maidstone. hops, strawberries and apples; www.mtscleansing.co.uk He featured in an Ealing black cramming Canadian airmen in my comedy, served as a retained fire- Austin 18 to taxi them to Headcorn man in the town, a papermill and taking the stars of Kind Hearts • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services worker, a highways technician for and Coronets from The Star in • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions Kent County Council, a “shilling Maidstone to film at Otham.” • Waste disposal & recyclingt taxi” driver, a bus conductor, an Another key event in his life was RAF telephonist, is a father of meeting his wife Thelma, who three, and fostered a dozen more lived in Barming. He said: “When I children. came back from leave with the HOODS TREE SERVICES LTD He told Downs Mail: “I’ve had RAF she told me, marry me now or TREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS everything: A wonderful life, a lov- never. She was a strong lady and ing wife, surrounded by beautiful we had a wonderful life and have Services include: children. I still want to do things, so many stories to tell.” but my bones are just a bit older. He hopes the wider public will £62 £31 Tree Reductions and Felling I’ve had great fun and love to share recognise the importance of what £76 £38 Stump Grinding my memories of all the things I’ve the elderly have given and still £76 £38 Hedge Cutting and Removal seen and done. I’d do it all again, Fred Hatcher has his first selfie, with Jess Sutton, from the Tudor Park have to share. Seasoned Logs given the chance.” managing his home, garden and Tudor Park in Bearsted. It was bril- Contact the Elderly is a national £104 £52 He rates friends, family and so- collection of photographs, books liant. They treated us like kings.” charity, with a base in Maidstone £166 £83 NPTC Qualified and fully insured cialising high on the list of things and newspaper cuttings, especially And Fred certainly has plenty to offering those aged 75+ living in Free quotes and advice provided that make him happy, relegating of Spitfires. talk about. He sees the RAF, which an 8-mile radius of the town a tea £94 £47 money to last place. He describes his monthly out- brought him discipline, as one of party one Sunday a month with a [email protected] - www.hoodstrees.co.uk He said: “Life is life, Brexit or £62 £31 ings through charity Contact the the major milestones in his life. host family. 01622 744149 - 07590 461382 not, it’s what you make of it.” Elderly as the best thing in his He remembers bombs falling in Free transport is provided. He concedes he is affected by diary. the town on Maidstone Museum Apply as a guest, host or volun- loneliness, not least as a widower. He said: “I love meeting up and and in George Street, which killed teer driver at www.contact-the- So getting out and meeting others chatting, what could be better? Our his Southborough School friend elderly.org.uk or call 0207 means a great deal, when he is not last gathering was at the Marriott Freddie Fiddament. 2400630. Today's Stalifts At Affdable Prices Fred was a conductor Mayor backs for Maidstone Bus War farewell 01622 756128 Corporation for just FRED joined the RAF in 1944 and 10 days. He loved the 07905-182363 befriending remembers his tearful mum and www.stairliftstoday.co.uk MAIDSTONE Mayor Cllr David job on the double- sister waving him off at Maid- Naghi made The West Kent Be- deckers between stone station. It was the first time [email protected] friending Service one of his cho- Barming and Loose, he had been out of the town on Straight New & Reconditioned Stairlifts sen charities. but when he refused his own. With Free Next Day Installation, From £995 He said: “One to cough up 10 cloth- Describing himself as “one of Reconditioned, Brand New From £1595 the lucky ones”, he spent the first of the greatest ing vouchers for his Curved Stairlifts From £3500 Reconditioned, part of his service at RAF Sun- Brand New From £4200, Installed within 7-14 Days gifts in life is that uniform, he was fired. of friendship, ninghill Park, Ascot, before being Sales - Servicing - Repairs - Removals having someone transferred when Princess Eliza- to talk with, to beth and Prince Philip planned to laugh with. We live there after their marriage. have so many Fred enjoys tending GREG LAURENSON older members in our community his garden and col- Friendly visit who are so richly deserving of lecting cuttings and PAINTING & DECORATING WEST Kent Befriending Service those relationships, but who feel photographs of offers dedicated volunteers to PROPERTY SERVICES that they are very much alone. wartime Maidstone. visit the lonely. “I have been inspired by the However, he misses With referrals coming in every Interior & Exterior Work willingness of people of all ages to sharing memories week, the free service is under get involved with The West Kent with Thelma, his wife pressure. Its Supporting Friend- Commercial & Domestic Befriending Service, bringing the of 45 years. ships Campaign invites everyone gift of friendship, putting smiles For him, and many to make a regular donation. It has Free Quotes on faces and a sense of belonging. others, meeting up already received pledges of sup- “I am very proud to have been with new-found port from Maidstone’s mayor and Reliable Quality Service asked to be an Ambassador of friends through Con- MPs. Find out more at Supporting Friendships, enabling tact The Elderly is a www.westkentbefriendingser- [email protected] me to continue my relationship life-line. with this wonderful charity.” vice.org.uk or call 0800 048 4668 07870 271 077

Maidstone May 2019 27 downsmail.co.uk

O b i t u a r e s Mike Anthony appointed as an Alderman of Kent in 2010. on to work for the RSPCA, eventually John moved locally with Joan, his wife taking the lead role locally for dog re- DAVID Michael Anthony (77) lived in of 67 years after forays into the local homing and placing over 6,000 dogs with Bearsted since 1972 with his family, most countryside allowed them to spot a coach new owners. recently in Manor Rise. house suitable for conversion. She was married to Ernest for 68 years He was very active in local life, and was The couple were parents to Alistair and and was mother to Jacqui. chairman of Bearsted Clare, and were together for over 70 years. Jacqui said: “My mother loved life and Parish Council, 1995- Their only significant time apart was a was never one to complain. She was active 1999, the Memorial three-year period when John’s career with in the RSPCA into her eighties and people Hall Commi�ee, BP took him to the Middle East. will remember her as very selfless.” 2008-2018 and John’s work in the oil industry included Be�y leaves her husband, daughter, Bearsted FC. responsibility for human resources and a grandchildren Robert and Alice, and Although born in long-standing interest in helping the great-grandchildren Ernie and Elsie. Lincolnshire, he lived industry to work in sympathy with the and went to school in environment. These concerns informed his London. decision to enter local politics. Gavin Stanford After marrying John was also a governor at Maidstone GAVIN Rawdon Stanford (83) lived locally Jennifer in 1965 he moved to Kent and Grammar School. His daughter Clare said: for 50 years, the last 20 of them in Bearsted worked in London. “My father was a man very much ahead of Park. Beginning in life insurance, he went into his time in the way he championed the Born in Essex, he the pensions world, where he was highly rights of the underdog.” boarded at Bethany regarded for his knowledge and County councillor Trudy Dean MBE School near professionalism, acknowledged when he added: “John was a great environmentalist Goudhurst before a was made President of the Pensions and his political strength was matched by career as an electrical Management Institute. He later became an his ability to bring humour to his work.” engineer. This work independent trustee of pension funds, John leaves his wife, children and eventually brought enabling him to work mainly from home. grandchildren Holly, Callum, Ollie and him to the local area Roger Vidler, who served with Mike on Freddie. when he was the parish council and memorial hall employed as an commi�ee, said: “He brought a clear- engineer surveyor by sighted sense of purpose to his local work Bey Pearson part of the Royal Insurance Company, and his chairmanship of organisations was BETTY Pearson MBE (89) lived locally, British Engine Insurance. characterised by drive and most recently in Allington, and previously Gavin was married to Marjorie for 53 determination.” in West Malling and Maidstone. years and father to Jon and Jane. Jon said: Paul Rudd, who played alongside Mike She earned her MBE for services to “My father would go out of his way to for Bearsted FC, added: “He was a fast animal charities, help others. He had strong practical skills right winger who scored many goals.” notably with the and had worked in wood-turning and Mike went onto the club commi�ee, RSPCA. other crafts. He suffered from arthritis, serving as chairman and president, and Born Be�y which brought about his early retirement, was instrumental in driving the club to the Charman in Surrey, but he did continue with his art.” higher echelons of the amateur game. she moved locally as Gavin leaves his wife, children and The parish council presented Mike with a girl and, after grandchildren James, Katie, Emily, a Mynn Award for services to the completing her William, Mencia and Gavin. community. education, began Mike was also father to David, Mark working in the shoe (who died in 1997) and grandfather to trade. She rose to Norman Williams Xander. manage a Chris Ha�on shop before NORMAN Williams (92), of Loose, was moving on to work for Dolcis. known in Maidstone for his performances Be�y later opened a transport café in with the Country Players Amateur John Frisby Addington and eventually ran her final Dramatic Society, MEREWORTH’S John Frisby (90) was a business; a grocery shop on Bearsted always teaming up tenacious local politician and tireless Green. on stage with his environmentalist, who served Kent With her sister Brenda Johnson and wife Pamela. County Council as a Liberal Democrat three other local women, Be�y established He was once member from 1989 to 2005. He was the Animal Welfare Charity before going selected as the best amateur actor in Kent and awarded the Marlowe Shield. He was a talented Camrass Wills sportsman and Advice you can trust played rugby for Cambridge University in the 1950/51 Varsity match against Oxford. Do you need help with probate? He spent 18 years in Zambia with the Do you want to buy a funeral plan? Colonial Service. Later he served with Liverpool City Council and then Kent • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed County Council. He was a talented artist and his DipPFS MSWW paintings sold well at exhibitions. He is survived by his second wife 01622 720985 Pamela and sons Richard and David from www.camrasswills.co.uk his first marriage, and Louise and James from Pamela’s first marriage.

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

28 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk

Barming Church car park There had been the LAA had asked to place top soil on the P complaints about large amounts of li�er – area to even it out. This was approved. a r i s h Parish field Members reviewed the plan people were visiting the area in the Playing field A junior football team and a for new play equipment and there would evenings. Cllr Gooch said the borough volleyball team had expressed interest in be a site meeting to discuss exact locations. council would not collect any rubbish as it hiring the field. It was agreed to take on C It was felt there was a lot of grass ma�ing was private property and a barrier needed both teams pending further details. o u n c i l s around some of the equipment but not to be installed. The clerk would raise the others – Cllr Gooch would query this. It issue with the PCSO and ask for more was agreed to accept the revised plan and patrols of the area. Tovil costings. Cllr Gooch was given delegated Banky Meadow There had been Co-option Ronald Hales-Reed was co- powers to proceed with the order. complaints of a smell of cannabis and large opted on to the parish council. Concrete removal The quotations that had numbers of people had started to Alley gating Another request for alley been received for the play area were congregate on the footpath. There were gating had been received from residents in discussed and it was agreed to accept the concerns that drug-dealing could be taking Church Road. The chairman had quotation for £360 plus Vat. place. The clerk would inform the PCSO. approached KCC Cllr Paul Cooper who Tree work A good job had been done on confirmed he could fund this project from lifting the trees at the play area and the his member’s grant. It was agreed to go stump needed to be ground out. This Loose ahead with this project. would be done immediately. School parking A le�er had been received Staff reorganisation The post of clerk Boundary Cllr Manser proposed to accept from a governor at the primary school would be taken up by Lisa Racke�, and the quote from Andrew Doe to top the outlining the parking issues. It was agreed clerk Alison Chew would continue as maples next to Church Lane and remove that the clerk should reply saying the responsible finance officer. The clerk debris. This was agreed. The clerk would problem was ongoing. would work 28 hours per week and the contact the grounds maintenance team to Pest control A complaint had been RFO would work 15 hours per week. find out how high they could reach with received about rodents. It was agreed that Burial Ground Lane There was a hedge trimmers. this issue was outside the parish council’s discussion about parking and obstruction Information board The quotation for the delegated powers. of the footway. The council agreed to place board at the bridge had not yet been Neighbourhood plan The examiner’s notices on cars parking on and obstructing received. Cllr Gooch would chase it and response had been positive. The field at the footway. the item was deferred. Herts Crescent should be removed from Health and safety It was agreed to supply Annual parish meeting Cllr Manser the repost but everything else remained. office staff with Skyguard alarms so that offered to send invitations to all hirers. The next stage would be the issue of a final the office could be open all year round. Cllr Gooch suggested moving the event to report for parish council agreement. There were concerns about the safety of Barming school as there would be more 125 years The agenda for the 125th Annual lone working but the chairman explained parking. Cllr Gooch would investigate Parish Meeting on April 24 was discussed. that this was dealt with by a risk cost. It was agreed that invitees who had assessment. Pavilion The light fi�ings were said to be declined to a�end should be removed Tree memorial There was a discussion old and difficult to access, and Cllr Gooch from the agenda. about the planting of a tree in a tribute to suggested that they were replaced with Allotments Urgent work had been needed the man murdered in Crisbrook Meadow. LED units. Seven units would be needed to hedging along the Valley Drive/Bray It was agreed to speak to Valley in total. Cllr Gooch would look into Gardens footpath. The £85 cost had been Conservation Society on condition that the suppliers. Cllr Vizzard offered to install authorised on delegated powers. parish council would need to hear from them. It was agreed to proceed with the Fence The fence by The Chequers was said the family directly; there would be no replacement at an approximate cost of to need urgent repair. This would be plaque on the tree; the VCS would choose £200. referred to the environment commi�ee for the tree which needed to be in line with Quarry There had been complaints about urgent action at their next meeting. the five year management plan. blasting at the quarry – tremors could be Duck race Due to MBC requirements, the Dog waste Cllr Susan Hogg said there had felt as far down as Bull Orchard. Cllr amenities association would be charging been an increase in dog waste not being Gooch was awaiting a response from entry to Brooks Field. The flat area by the picked up and put in the bin. She asked Gallagher’s. stream had been invaded by badgers, and the council to stay vigilant.

A GREY 1.5 tonne digger was stolen from a building site in Forstal Road, C r i m e Allington. Neighbourhood Watch A commercial property and its shed Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police were broken into in Ashford Road. r A cat was shot by pellets that appear to Quarry Road. Avenue, Shepway. It was the second time e p o r t s be from a BB gun in Allington Way, A vehicle was keyed in Knightrider this has happened when the vehicle was Allington. Street. parked in this location. An outer building was broken into and A car was found keyed in Arundel A corner sofa was stolen from under an various items stolen in Ashford Road. Street. open car port at a house in Colyn Drive, A bike was stolen from outside A vehicle parked in the road had a side Park Wood. Starbucks in King Street. window smashed in Kent Avenue, An Audi S4 parked in the road was Wing mirrors have been ripped off a Shepway. broken into and a bag was stolen in vehicle parked at a house in Plains A brick was used to smash the window Sutton Road, Shepway. Avenue, Shepway. of a vehicle parked in Chatham Road. A wing mirror was broken off a vehicle Paint was thrown over a vehicle in A rear number plate and a rear light parked in Chatham Road. Sussex Road, Shepway. unit were removed from a vehicle in Graffiti has been sprayed on a property A Vauxhall Astra was broken into and Woodside Road, Shepway. window in Wrangleden Road, Park tools were stolen in Woodford Road, A store window was broken by Wood. Fant. somebody using a paving slab, before A shed at a house was broken into in A vehicle was damaged in Hampshire running off in Boxley Road. Grove Road, Shepway. A mountain bike, Drive, Shepway. There was an attempt to break into a tools and garden equipment was reported A back passenger window was property in Egerton Road by kicking in a stolen. smashed on a car in Barker Road, Fant. door. Tyres were stolen from a vehicle parked A window was smashed at a house in A vehicle was damaged in Plains in the road in Road, Park Wood.

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T. ext.01622 224 630330 T.ext. 01622 227 630330 ext.T. 01622 234 630330 01622 208426 ext. 224 ext.Reach 227 up to 80,000 householdsext. every234 month Mobile: 07795 471196 / 07799 867524 www.qualitree-services.co.uk 01622 630 330 Office: 01622 734817 Appliance Repairs Carpenters Email: [email protected] ApplianceAppliance Repairs ChimneyCarpenters Maintenance ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCE Find your local Website: www.landwaysurfacing.co.uk ALL DOMESTICREPAIR SERVICE APPLIANCE Findtrades your people local Wood Works A.H.B.S 100 The Landway Bearsted Maidstone ME14 4LB withREPAIR fully qualified SERVICE engineer CarpentryA.H.B.S All makes of washing machines, trades people WoodFULL CARPENTRY Works with fully qualified engineer Businesses & Services fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, FULLSERVICE CARPENTRY FROM CarpentryAll aspects of CARPENTRY Electricians t/dryers,All makes dishwashers, of washing elecmachines, ovens. 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Family business established 21 years SJM Garden Maintenance Limewood Bathrooms MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD IN AND AROUND THE HOME FREE ESTIMATES • Lawn Mowing & Care • Hedge Bathroom Installers 01622Family business 743648 established 21 years Tree Bathrooms CALL Cliff on Trimming & Pruning • Border Creation 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 CALL Cliff on 01622 743648 & Maintenance • Leaf Clearing • Services The complete Bathroom 31, SheppeyMob: Road, 07711 Loose, 291921Maidstone Garden Clearance • Fencing Painting & 07940 854927 • Tree Surgery • Felling & Removal 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Repair • Other odd jobs also considered TheMaintenance complete CompanyBathroom • Hedge & Shrub Trimming • Pruning Free Estimates & Fully Insured Maintenance Company Chimney Maintenance • Topping • Tree Reduction NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES For a clean & tidy service • NPTC Qualified • Fully Insured Chimney Maintenance please contact Steve Free Estimates NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Fencing Contact 01233 428906 / 07941830035 Supply • Install • Repair H & G Chimney Services 07971 571683 / 01622 205034 Classifieds downsmail.co.uk [email protected] Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • LongH established & G Chimney • ICS registered Services Supply • Install • Repair All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services ReachCompleteChimney more re-builds sweeping people • Re-pointing service than • Long • Guttering, everestablished beforeroof • & ICS valley registered www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk repairs Harris Services Local Family Business Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439All types 07860 of flu 318166 • All pots-cowls [email protected] supplied & fitted 01622 736266 Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs TREES LANDSCAPING Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] • Lopping, Topping • Stump Grinding • Fencing, Slabbing • Paving, Tarmac ALL WORK GUARANTEED 01622 736266 • Crowns Trimming • Shaping, Hedging • Stone Work, Turfing • Power washing • Pruning, Felling • Rubbish clearance • Shingle, Brick Work ALL WORK GUARANTEED BuildingBuilders Plans Clean Sweep Free Estimates | Fully Insured | 0800 955 3171 | 07707 519671 Builders Brush & vacuum MD Building & Services ContactClean our sales team… Sweep PAUL BEST Specialists in WoodBrush burners& vacuum and flues •MD Extensions Building • Refurbishments & Services Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery Rebecca Abbott Brickwork • Plastering (All aspects) supplied and fitted PAUL BEST • ElectricsSpecialists • Modernisations in Wood burnersTelesales and Manager flues Classified Sales Executive Classified Sales Executive • Brickwork • O Extensions • •Kitchen Extensions & Bathroom • Refurbishments Installations All work insuredE: natasha@ E: teresa@ E: rebecca.abbott • • Decking/Patios • Driveways, Patios & Repointing Gardening Services BrickworkO General Builder • Plastering (All aspects) supplied anddownsmail.co.uk fitted downsmail.co.uk @downsmail.co.uk •• Electrics Fencing &• ModernisationsBlockpaving • Water Features • Fencing O All work certified to cover insurance 25Extensions years Experience • KitchenFULLY & Bathroom INSURED Installations All work insuredT. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 • Driveways • Treework O General Builder • Driveways, Patios & Repointing ext. 224 ext. 227 ext. 234 Tel:• Mark Fencing 07841 & Blockpaving 409061 Pest control available Experienced • Reliable • Fully Insured 01622O 25 years 891960 ExperienceCarpenters AllCleaning work Services certified to cover insurance e: [email protected] INSURED Camera inspections available Tel: 01622 527106 Mob:07788 532926 Email: [email protected] 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Pest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 ApplianceWeddings Repairs attended Carpenters 07748 630747 e: [email protected] Camera inspections available www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk ALL DOMESTICMember APPLIANCE of the ICS Find your local Building Plans Weddings attended REPAIRHETAS SERVICE approved trades people Wood Works A.H.B.S Building Plans with fullyMember qualified engineer of the ICS Carpentry All makes of washing machines, Businesses & Services FULL CARPENTRY fridges, Contactfreezers, vacuum Kevincleaners, Bovis SERVICE FROM All aspects of CARPENTRY t/dryers, HETASdishwashers, approvedelec ovens. on the Downs Mail DECKING TO DOORS, Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and  All work guaranteed directory fitted, Loft Conversions, Doors hung,  Free01622 estimates and 844385 call out KITCHENS & FLOORS. Contact Kevin Bovis downsmail.co.uk Locks fitted, Skirting, small alterations, 0788501622 673113 651578 ALL JOBS BIG & SMALL. Plastering and Tiling Anytime: 07831 557677 All work guaranteed. [email protected] 844385 MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD FREE ESTIMATES IN AND AROUND THE HOME Family business established 21 years 30 Maidstone May 2019 07885 651578Bathrooms Maidstone May 2019 31 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 [email protected] CALL Cliff on 01622 743648 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 The complete Bathroom Maintenance Company Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES

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38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Health | News Mote Park dam CCGs merge floods warning for beer care BULLDOZERS are poised to Reservoir from Turkey Mill Pond, move into Mote Park in a major centres around building a second, A MAJOR change is being made in operation to protect part of the 60m-wide spillway to control the commissioning and providing borough from potentially cata- release of water during extreme Maidstone area local health serv- strophic flooding. flooding, if pressure on the dam ices “in an endeavour to respond Engineers are asking Maid- threatens to destroy it or cause the to population needs”. stone’s planning chiefs for permis- reservoir to overflow. For six years this has been the re- sion to carry out “significant” Ms Geary said: “Failure of the sponsibility of the budget-holding works on a 140m dam, which stops dam would result in downstream GP-led NHS West Kent Clinical 200,000m³ of reservoir water from flooding of Turkey Mill Business Commissioning Group (CCG). Be- Cancer care misses targets fore that Maidstone was served by barrelling down the River Len into Park and several areas of housing ‘Cheetara’ run for cats MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells hospital trust is still seriously a primary care trust. Turkey Mill. along the River Len.” AN ANIMAL lover from Maidstone cats through the charity. I will al- missing cancer targets – and West Kent CCG continues its harm re- But the plan now is that the eight The works, they say, are “exten- Engineers anticipate around 30 ran the London Landmarks half- ways put photos of our foster cats view process. CCGs covering Kent and Medway sive” and will have a considerable trees would be felled and large marathon as a cheetah to raise needing homes on the notice- To date there has been no example of patient harm due to de- will merge, to provide a leadership impact “on the recreational quality amounts of earth excavated. more than £500 for Cats Protec- board at work. lays. system and strategic more cost-ef- aligning local health, social, com- of the park, visual appearance and The 12-hectare Mote Park Lake tion. “I’ve been running for 20 years. The national target for treatment within 62 days from diagno- fective commissioning. The struc- munity and primary care. biodiversity”. Reservoir was formed between Lucy Dugher, of Ringlestone, For me it’s really good for mind, sis is 95% of patients but the trust achieved only 63.3% in Janu- ture could be in place by 2020. Dr Bob Bowes (pictured), chair- In a report to Maidstone Borough 1793 and 1800, when the River Len dressed up as Cheetara, from the body and soul. It gets me out in ary. man of NHS West Kent CCG (pic- Council’s planning committee, case was dammed. 80s cartoon ThunderCats, for the the fresh air and into countryside In addition there will be about tured), said: “Kent and Medway officer Marion Geary said she Ms Geary said a 10-yearly review 13-mile challenge. and where I can let my mind wan- four integrated care partnerships have been working towards a recognised the “substantial harm” of the dam’s safety concluded the The 45-year-old, who is married der. It’s excellent stress relief, it’s serving Kent and Medway to en- Ambulance times failing greater integration of commission- the work would have on the park, reservoir does not meet modern- to Richard, said: “I have three res- therapeutic and the countryside is sure the needs of the local popula- LOCAL ambulance services are missing all the new national tar- ing services to respond better to the but said the council’s “statutory day standards. cue cats. I enjoy their personali- beautiful.” tion are met, including one for gets covering life-threatening, urgent and non-urgent calls. duty to comply with safety re- The work would last four to six local health needs of the popula- ties. They are fascinating, funny Lucy’s fundraising page is Maidstone area and the rest of For the two most urgent categories the under-performance by quirements ... outweigh that harm.” weeks and was due to be debated and amazing. My mum volunteers https://www.justgiving.com/fundr West Kent. tion. In the coming months we will SECAmb is at least two minutes. A joint NHS service investiga- Work on the embankment dam, by MBC’s planning committee as for Cats Protection and we foster aising/lucy-dugher. There will also be a larger num- work with all CCG members to tion is taking place. which separates Mote Park Lake Downs Mail went to press. ber of primary care networks agree the best way forward.”

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2232 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 23 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Health | News Mote Park dam CCGs merge floods warning for beer care BULLDOZERS are poised to Reservoir from Turkey Mill Pond, move into Mote Park in a major centres around building a second, A MAJOR change is being made in operation to protect part of the 60m-wide spillway to control the commissioning and providing borough from potentially cata- release of water during extreme Maidstone area local health serv- strophic flooding. flooding, if pressure on the dam ices “in an endeavour to respond Engineers are asking Maid- threatens to destroy it or cause the to population needs”. stone’s planning chiefs for permis- reservoir to overflow. For six years this has been the re- sion to carry out “significant” Ms Geary said: “Failure of the sponsibility of the budget-holding works on a 140m dam, which stops dam would result in downstream GP-led NHS West Kent Clinical 200,000m³ of reservoir water from flooding of Turkey Mill Business Commissioning Group (CCG). Be- Cancer care misses targets fore that Maidstone was served by barrelling down the River Len into Park and several areas of housing ‘Cheetara’ run for cats MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells hospital trust is still seriously a primary care trust. Turkey Mill. along the River Len.” AN ANIMAL lover from Maidstone cats through the charity. I will al- missing cancer targets – and West Kent CCG continues its harm re- But the plan now is that the eight The works, they say, are “exten- Engineers anticipate around 30 ran the London Landmarks half- ways put photos of our foster cats view process. CCGs covering Kent and Medway sive” and will have a considerable trees would be felled and large marathon as a cheetah to raise needing homes on the notice- To date there has been no example of patient harm due to de- will merge, to provide a leadership impact “on the recreational quality amounts of earth excavated. more than £500 for Cats Protec- board at work. lays. system and strategic more cost-ef- aligning local health, social, com- of the park, visual appearance and The 12-hectare Mote Park Lake tion. “I’ve been running for 20 years. The national target for treatment within 62 days from diagno- fective commissioning. The struc- munity and primary care. biodiversity”. Reservoir was formed between Lucy Dugher, of Ringlestone, For me it’s really good for mind, sis is 95% of patients but the trust achieved only 63.3% in Janu- ture could be in place by 2020. Dr Bob Bowes (pictured), chair- In a report to Maidstone Borough 1793 and 1800, when the River Len dressed up as Cheetara, from the body and soul. It gets me out in ary. man of NHS West Kent CCG (pic- Council’s planning committee, case was dammed. 80s cartoon ThunderCats, for the the fresh air and into countryside In addition there will be about tured), said: “Kent and Medway officer Marion Geary said she Ms Geary said a 10-yearly review 13-mile challenge. and where I can let my mind wan- four integrated care partnerships have been working towards a recognised the “substantial harm” of the dam’s safety concluded the The 45-year-old, who is married der. It’s excellent stress relief, it’s serving Kent and Medway to en- Ambulance times failing greater integration of commission- the work would have on the park, reservoir does not meet modern- to Richard, said: “I have three res- therapeutic and the countryside is sure the needs of the local popula- LOCAL ambulance services are missing all the new national tar- ing services to respond better to the but said the council’s “statutory day standards. cue cats. I enjoy their personali- beautiful.” tion are met, including one for gets covering life-threatening, urgent and non-urgent calls. duty to comply with safety re- The work would last four to six local health needs of the popula- ties. They are fascinating, funny Lucy’s fundraising page is Maidstone area and the rest of For the two most urgent categories the under-performance by quirements ... outweigh that harm.” weeks and was due to be debated and amazing. My mum volunteers https://www.justgiving.com/fundr West Kent. tion. In the coming months we will SECAmb is at least two minutes. A joint NHS service investiga- Work on the embankment dam, by MBC’s planning committee as for Cats Protection and we foster aising/lucy-dugher. There will also be a larger num- work with all CCG members to tion is taking place. which separates Mote Park Lake Downs Mail went to press. ber of primary care networks agree the best way forward.”

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Air Conditioning Specialists Convertible Hood Specialists Over 70 years’ of combined experience and accredited training with local main dealers We service all makes & models

BMW,MINI & MERCEDES VEHICLE SPECIALISTS 01622 829183 Visit our East Farleigh showroom to view www.handcmotors.co.uk ELECTRONIC SERVICE HISTORY UPDATED FOR www.balinea.co.uk our full range of beautiful bathrooms 19-25 Rawdon Road, Maidstone, ME15 6PT BMW,MINI & MERCEDES VEHICLES E: [email protected] Unit 5 Kilnbridge Works, Off Lower Road, East Farleigh, Maidstone Kent ME15 0HD

22 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 2333 Classified downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified Window Services Health & Beauty Sarah Willsey MCFHP MAFHP Foot Health Professional 07500 041535 | [email protected] | www.yourhealthyfeet.co.uk Mobile Foot Health Professional service in the comfort of your own home Glebe Fencing Ltd has a reputation synonymous with quality workmanship and TREATMENTS PRICES superior installations. Established for more than 19 years, the team at Glebe Corns & Calluses – Hard Skin – Cracked Heels £38 first appointment pride themselves on customer service through consistently delivering high Toe Nail Cutting and care - Ingrown Toe Nails £35 follow up Thickened Fungal Nails- Verrucas £33 over 65 first appointment quality fencing, decking and gate installations. Diabetic and High Risk Foot Care and Advice £30 over 65 follow up Website Services We are looking for Fencing Installers, preferably with fencing experience Leisure - Must have a valid UK driving license and valid green or blue CSCS card - The working day will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 5pm with occasional overtime. Alternate Saturday work is also expected - Salary will vary depending upon experience

For more details please contact: Office: 01622-220054 Fax: 01622-200822 Email: [email protected] Recruitment Web: www.glebe-fencing.co.uk

Registered charity Media Sales

based in Maidstone Come and join our friendly sales team and share in our success. looking for volunteers. GREAT SAVINGS ON WINDOWS Field Sales / Key Account Executive DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES Purpose of charity is to provide counselling Is required to sell advertising across our publications, online products and work on special projects. support and help for children and families affected This is a part time position 26 - 32 hours per week over 4-5 days

5 WINDOWS £1510 FITTED by a range of impairing conditions, different You will be representing the best publications serving the local community and enjoy a working environment behaviours and those associated with conditions that provides you with the freedom and flexibility to use your initiative while working within a supportive team. such Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or The role will involve: Autism or other additional needs. • Handling inbound and making outbound calls • Developing business from existing clients • Obtaining and growing new business No Qualifications needed, just someone genuinely • Working to achieve revenue targets

interested in helping improve families and young The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a similar role and will: people’s lives. • Have worked to personal sales targets • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative If interested, please contact Trustees on • Have excellent communication skills £600 You will require the use of your own car and have £660 01622 675714 or 01622 206655 a full driving license £960 For more information. Friendly, flexible, family owned business. £980 Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + A QUALITY SERVICE YOU CAN RELY ON! mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) CALL US FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE & ADVICE: 0800 7839661 Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett - [email protected]

34 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 35 Classified downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified Window Services Health & Beauty Sarah Willsey MCFHP MAFHP Foot Health Professional 07500 041535 | [email protected] | www.yourhealthyfeet.co.uk Mobile Foot Health Professional service in the comfort of your own home Glebe Fencing Ltd has a reputation synonymous with quality workmanship and TREATMENTS PRICES superior installations. Established for more than 19 years, the team at Glebe Corns & Calluses – Hard Skin – Cracked Heels £38 first appointment pride themselves on customer service through consistently delivering high Toe Nail Cutting and care - Ingrown Toe Nails £35 follow up Thickened Fungal Nails- Verrucas £33 over 65 first appointment quality fencing, decking and gate installations. Diabetic and High Risk Foot Care and Advice £30 over 65 follow up Website Services We are looking for Fencing Installers, preferably with fencing experience Leisure - Must have a valid UK driving license and valid green or blue CSCS card - The working day will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 5pm with occasional overtime. Alternate Saturday work is also expected - Salary will vary depending upon experience

For more details please contact: Office: 01622-220054 Fax: 01622-200822 Email: [email protected] Recruitment Web: www.glebe-fencing.co.uk

Registered charity Media Sales based in Maidstone Come and join our friendly sales team and share in our success. looking for volunteers. GREAT SAVINGS ON WINDOWS Field Sales / Key Account Executive DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES Purpose of charity is to provide counselling Is required to sell advertising across our publications, online products and work on special projects. support and help for children and families affected This is a part time position 26 - 32 hours per week over 4-5 days

5 WINDOWS £1510 FITTED by a range of impairing conditions, different You will be representing the best publications serving the local community and enjoy a working environment behaviours and those associated with conditions that provides you with the freedom and flexibility to use your initiative while working within a supportive team. such Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or The role will involve: Autism or other additional needs. • Handling inbound and making outbound calls • Developing business from existing clients • Obtaining and growing new business No Qualifications needed, just someone genuinely • Working to achieve revenue targets interested in helping improve families and young The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a similar role and will: people’s lives. • Have worked to personal sales targets • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative If interested, please contact Trustees on • Have excellent communication skills £600 You will require the use of your own car and have £660 01622 675714 or 01622 206655 a full driving license £960 For more information. Friendly, flexible, family owned business. £980 Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + A QUALITY SERVICE YOU CAN RELY ON! mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) CALL US FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE & ADVICE: 0800 7839661 Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett - [email protected]

34 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 35 WANTED On the Road On the Road Cars,Vans, On the Road On the Road 7UXFNV[V¬ To advertise please call Any age / Any Becky or Teresa on condition £ Cash Waiting £ d 01622 630330 call 07542420700 or 07747025301 MOTORCYCLES WANTED Spares/Repairs Non runners MOT failures etc All bikes considered Will collect and pay cash John - 07901 767 925 - 01303 627021 ›åƉ°ĬŸŅƉŅýåųƉĵŅƋŅųÎƼÎĬåƉÎŅĬĬåÎƋĜŅĹƉ°ĹÚƉÚåĬĜƴåųƼƉŸåųƴĜÎå summer checks. NATIONWIDE MOTORCYCLE DELIVERY SERVICE www.bowmanmotorcycles.co.uk

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InstructorsFREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY Driving School      EN   On the Road To advertise please call WEWE NEEDNEED Tel:Becky 01622 or Teresa 663662 on Unit 5, Bridge Industrial Estate, Wharf Road, 01622Tovil, Maidstone 63 ME150 6RR330 - Accessories Fitting - MOT & Servicing YOU!YOU! 44 Maidstone Weald March 2019 - Repairs & Maintenance - Tuning Telephone: 033 577 5004 - Electrical Diagnostic - Air Con South East's Leading Car, Email: [email protected]

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36 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 37

Maidstone East June 2018 45 WANTED On the Road On the Road Cars,Vans, On the Road On the Road 7UXFNV[V¬ To advertise please call Any age / Any Becky or Teresa on condition £ Cash Waiting £ d 01622 630330 call 07542420700 or 07747025301 MOTORCYCLES WANTED Spares/Repairs Non runners MOT failures etc All bikes considered Will collect and pay cash John - 07901 767 925 - 01303 627021 ›åƉ°ĬŸŅƉŅýåųƉĵŅƋŅųÎƼÎĬåƉÎŅĬĬåÎƋĜŅĹƉ°ĹÚƉÚåĬĜƴåųƼƉŸåųƴĜÎå summer checks. NATIONWIDE MOTORCYCLE DELIVERY SERVICE www.bowmanmotorcycles.co.uk

MOTORCYCLES WANTED Spares/Repairs Non runners MOT failures etc All bikes considered Will collect and pay cash John - 07901 767 925 - 01303 627021 OnMore thePeople PassRoad First Time With A Class Driving School Mechanical Repairs & Maintenance Your Journey to freedom starts 01622 686824 www.gmskent.co.uk [email protected] • MOT • Servicing • Repairs • Cambelts here with A-Class • Clutches • Springs and Shocks • Diagnostics • Air Conditioning South East's Leading TyresDriving • Exhausts • Tracking Car, Bike, & HGV

InstructorsFREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY Driving School      EN   On the Road To advertise please call WEWE NEEDNEED Tel:Becky 01622 or Teresa 663662 on Unit 5, Bridge Industrial Estate, Wharf Road, 01622Tovil, Maidstone 63 ME150 6RR330 - Accessories Fitting - MOT & Servicing YOU!YOU! 44 Maidstone Weald March 2019 - Repairs & Maintenance - Tuning Telephone: 033 577 5004 - Electrical Diagnostic - Air Con South East's Leading Car, Email: [email protected]

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36 Maidstone May 2019 Maidstone May 2019 37

Maidstone East June 2018 45 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Brexit impacts on local elections W ITH much local disappointment – talent and become deeply involved t and also some fury – over the Brexit serving their town. It is increasingly debacle, what impact can be expected MailMarks challenging and demands much on Maidstone and Kent elections? DENNIS FOWLE President dedication. For years I was reasonably accurate [email protected] We owe our thanks to Cllr Fran forecasting the main thrust of these Wilson, who is retiring after 24 years as elections. Now I haven’t a clue! a Lib Dem member of Maidstone On top of the borough council revival, locally and nationally. And Council. Twice she has been leader of elections on May 2, there could be, at Nigel Farage’s new Brexit party could the council, a daunting commitment. the time of writing, EU elections and make massive inroads, even if formed She was always on top of her portfolio, may be a general election. too late for the borough elections. only possible by spending hours The Conservatives had high hopes of But if the UK takes part in EU reading long and often complex reports winning back control of the local elections, UKIP/Brexit could clean up in and being thoroughly involved. May council from the Lib Dems by gaining a Maidstone with so many voters she and husband John now enjoy a couple of seats to add to their existing proclaiming their determination for more relaxed life. 24, targeting Coxheath, North, Loose revenge on MPs – and the EU. and Downswood. Maidstone’s two Tory MPs – Helen Crem ‘embarrassing’ Confidence was high – until Grant and Helen Whately – have huge I AM pleased improvements are canvassers hit a Brexit storm on the majorities, but will not welcome a underway at Maidstone Cemetery, doorsteps among voters. Maidstone general election just now. Both were including major repairs to the lovely voted 58% for Brexit and, according to originally remainers, but now say the old, but faded chapel. local canvassers, the fury is now aimed democratic decision to leave must be at the Prime Minister for the poverty of respected. Maidstone watches them But I fear Maidstone Council’s her negotiations with the EU and then closely in Parliament – it will not accept priorities are wrong and should have turning to Jeremy Corbyn and Labour a benign “Brexit in Name Only”, been given to expanding the chapel to offset opposition among her own leaving the UK subservient to an EU we seating at the busy Maidstone MPs. Many lost confidence months ago voted to depart. Crematorium. in her ability to conduct the most Many were pleased to see retired The chapel can seat only about 80, important UK negotiations since World Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe totally inadequate for bigger funerals War II – and this has risen to a fighting again the Brexit ba�le on when at times 100 or more mourners groundswell. television. She has always been a are left standing around the chapel or Local elections are usually decided dedicated Brexiteer and described our listening to the service and tributes more on local issues and popularity of Prime Minister as the worst since Sir from outside. candidates, and this may still hold Anthony Eden. I felt this was very It is embarrassing to see elderly and now. But so disenchanted are voters insulting – to Sir Anthony. disabled mourners standing for the best with national politicians of all colours – How will all this end? I fear part of an hour. and some Maidstone political decisions repercussions will last a long time. I now hear of families saying the – there is a danger of a very poor crematorium is unfit for large funerals turnout. Thank you, Fran and that the bigger gathering should be UKIP will see a chance of a major I ADMIRE councillors who have at a wake.

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

38 Maidstone May 2019 downsmail.co.uk

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

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

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