Four editions delivered to over 88,000 homes every month downsmail.co.uk
MaidstoneMaidstone EastEast EditionEdition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE
Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling September 2016 No. 233
Vintage show News Burial ground plan draws crowds A FUNERAL director has announced plans for a natural THE ninth annual Classic Cars and burial ground at a former Retro Vintage had its most success- riding centre in Detling. 3 ful year yet, raising more than £3,000 for the Kent, Surrey and Sus- sex Air Ambulance. Bride’s tractor trip Hundreds of visitors flocked to A TRACTOR provided the perfect Bearsted Green to see the 200 vehi- transport to church for cles and visit the vintage stalls. Bearsted newlyweds. 4 The more energetic danced along with the Medway Lindy Hoppers throughout the day. By-election battle The Peter Willson Trophy for the OPENING shots are fired in the ‘Best in Show’ was awarded to battle for a seat on Keith Hoffman for his 1954 Bentley Maidstone Council. 5 Cars were the stars at the Classic Cars and Retro Vintage show R-type saloon. New homes delay START on 800-home Langley development could be at New call for bypass least a year away. 8 Bat in the belfry WORK is starting to repair Leeds church roof after delays after van hits girl, 16 due a bat in the belfry. 10 THE issue of traffic volumes through Leeds village has been highlighted Dog waste bins to go again after a teenager was struck by a van. BINS for dog waste are to be re- moved in a bid to cut The 16-year-old from Sutton Va- lagers came out to see if I was all been a different story altogether.” council costs. 15 lence was returning to her cousin’s right. Kent county councillor and long- house after a trip into Maidstone, “He said he got too close to me be- time supporter of a relief road for the Olympics carnival and was thrown to the ground by cause he had to village, Gary Cooke, said he was the impact. get out of the way “horrified” by Felicity’s ordeal. A RIO carnival-style event will The vehicle’s wing mirror was of a car coming in He said: “To be honest, I am ab- celebrate the Olympics ripped off by the strike and sent fly- the opposite di- solutely horrified that the problems in the town centre. 15 ing down the pavement, near rection and sort of experienced by the village should Burgess Hall Drive. swerved and hit have resulted in a child being hit.” Making the grade Felicity Poulter (pictured) said: “It me. My cousin Cllr Cooke – who hosted a site STUDENTS have been all happened so quickly. I felt being and I thought he meeting in the village this week to celebrating their A-level hit from behind on the upper arm might have been talk to residents concerned about ve- success. 22 and then being knocked over onto going a bit fast.” hicle volumes and speeding – said the pavement. Felicity did not suffer serious in- that a relief road had to go on the Obituaries 34 “In fairness, the driver got out and jury in the collision although her table again. was so apologetic. He seemed really arm was bruised and sore. Upper street resident Rob Jackson nice and genuinely sorry and gave She added: “If this had been a has been mobilising villagers over Comment 35 me a hug. Another car stopped to see smaller child, they’d have been hit traffic and fears it may in- if I was okay and some of the vil- on the head and that would have crease further with three 8 Crime Reports 47 Royal Mail sale GOLF buggies, a utility tractor and THE Royal Mail site in the centre other equipment were damaged of Maidstone has been bought at the golf club off Blue Bell Hill; jointly by Maidstone Borough fencing was stolen from a field in Thurnham; number plates were YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT Council and Kent County Council for a fee of at least £4.5m for a taken from a van in The Street, [email protected] Boxley; a shed was broken into at 01622 690290 mixed use of retails, 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent houses and offices. 24 a horse yard in Stockbury.
Pennies Day Nursery Invites You To Their Book now for Stay & Play Open Morning - Saturday 8th Oct 10am-12pm OCTOBER 01622 737733 www.pennies.co.uk HOLIDAY Find us at: Newnham Court Shopping Village & Hockers Lane, Maidstone CLUB ALL BEDS COME WITH A 5 YEAR GUARANTEE
SUPERIOR QUALITY BEDS MANUFACTURED IN KENT Chartwell 1400 •1400 traditional pocketed springs •Premium quality damask cover •Double sided mattress Mattress Divan Set only 2 drawer 3ft (Single) £349.99 £449.99 Free 4’ 6” (Double) £399.99 £549.99 delivery on all Memory Plus 800 orders •800 pocketed springs •Deep layer of memory foam •Easy care non turn mattress Mattress Divan Set only 2 drawer 3ft (Single) £249.99 £349.99 4’ 6” (Double) £299.99 £449.99 Express delivery Backcare Select 800 options •800 firm pocketed springs •Double sided winter / summer mattress available •Hand tufted damask cover Mattress Divan Set only 2 drawer 3ft (Single) £199.99 £299.99 4’ 6” (Double) £249.99 £399.99 0% Interest All beds available in non drawer and 4 drawer divan sets. Free credit
15 Royal Star Arcade, High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1JL 01622 296680 Open Mon-Sat 9-5pm, Sun 11-4pm upholsterybrands.co.uk
2 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Burial ground Yellow spots before your plan revealed AN OLD riding stables in Detling could become a natural burial ground. eyes could be bee poo Maidstone Council will consider an application to change the use of A COATING of yellow marks on the brick buildings, off Hockers cars and washing lines has been Lane, into offices and a chapel. mystifying residents in Bearsted. Estate agent Sibley Pares, which And while some say the offending has been marketing the land and spots before their eyes are pollen, buildings for £250,000 since the be- others firmly believe it’s bee poo! ginning of the year, said the 12-acre The British Beekeepers’ Associa- site to the south of the village is tion told the Downs Mail this week under offer. that the spots could be aerial dis- A planning application by Tender patches from bees and other insects. Ian Homer Touch Funeral Services includes an Ian Homer, a beekeeper for nearly (above) says the extension to the stable barn and a 40 years, said: “With the late crops yellow deposits dormer to the hay loft, as well as re- and the warm weather, bees are very are more com- establishing ponds and a stream in active collecting nectar and pollen at the grounds, which lie in an Area of mon when bees this time of year. They feed on carbs Outstanding Natural Beauty. A car and protein – nectar and pollen – but are busy park for 15 vehicles would also be the pollen has a very hard outer case, collecting nectar created. and it’s this fibre provider that they Paul Hopper is behind the family- excrete while they work.” plus anything else outside. It seems of the bees ... sorry if it’s attacking car run funeral business, which has The sightings were reported on to occur every year and we have no- paintwork but they can’t help it!” premises in Gravesend, Rochester, Bearsted’s Streetlife website. ticed it particularly over the last 2/3 The beekeepers’ association says Erith, Plumstead and Oprington. One of those who posted the news months.” bee poo is no cause for concern. The Ian and Rosemary Ferguson, who was Susan, from Bearsted Green, Maureen N replied: “I don’t think natural by-product can be washed live near the site, say they are con- who thought it wasn’t bee poo, be- its bee pollen but it’s probably bee away without causing damage. cerned about the increase in traffic it cause “the stains were eating into the poo. We have had some hot, sunny A spokesman for Maidstone will generate and the proximity of paintwork of some cars”. She re- weather and the bees have been very Council said: “It seems likely that the car park to their home. They also ported the spots to Maidstone Coun- active, so their metabolism is at its this is bee poo. It’s a natural phe- believe parking will be inadequate. cil’s environmental health team. height. It means there is a very nomenon and nothing we can do Detling Parish Council will con- She said: “My neighbours and I healthy bee colony [colonies] around anything about. We certainly don’t sider the application at its meeting at are experiencing small yellow de- you. That’s why it occurs at about have any plans to issue any ‘ASB-ee’ the village hall from 7pm on Tues- posits on car windows, washing the same time each year. On behalf orders.” day, September 6.
01622 738772 www.castle-cleaning.co.uk 7 Yeoman Court, Ashford Rd Bearsted, Kent ME14 4ND www.directorshairandbeauty.co.uk specialists in carpet & upholstery cleaning
Experts in Cleaning Your Home Castle Cleaning is a small family run business operating across Maidstone for 10 years and we are dedicated to delivering the highest cleaning standards possible combined with excellent value for money. We are IICRC registered company, we have to adhere to guidelines set down by IICRC.
Our truck mounted systems can clean… • Carpets • Upholstery • Rugs • Wood Flooring Shellac Gel Nails Late night • Patios & Driveways Now Available Thurs • Decking & Conservatories • Ceramic Floor tiles/grout Introductory 50% Off • Marble & Granite Floors Offer Cut & Finish* Mention the Freephone: 0800 3457219 Downsmail for a for all new clients on production of this advert Mobile: 07920 840972 *Valid until 1 October 2016. Can not be used in conjunction with any other offers. 5% Discount
Maidstone East September 2016 3 News downsmail.co.uk Churches join to reach more Report praises Age UK THE creation of a new Team Min- istry, serving a dozen churches along the Pilgrims Way, looks set to win favour. for ‘first class’ service The re-organisation – merging the parishes of Hollingbourne, Hucking, AGE UK Maidstone was given a glowing report on its staff and care but Boxley, Thurnham, Detling, Leeds, Broomfield, Grove Green, has been told by a health watchdog that it must improve its admin. Kingswood, Langley and Otham – has won the backing of all the The charity’s Mill Street branch, and “gold stars”. Parochial Church Councils (PCC) af- which provides bathing and foot- About 80 people use the bathing fected. care services for more than 400 service and 340 are helped by the The new “super benefice” or Team older people, received an unan- foot care service. The report said: Ministry would operate under a nounced two-day inspection in “Staff were trained and supported Team Rector – currently Rev John June from Care Quality Commis- to have the right skills, knowledge Corbyn, at Holy Cross, Bearsted – sion (CQC) inspectors. and qualifications necessary to give with a Team Vicar, Rev Steve Their report praised the service people the right support. Everyone Hughes, in Otham; a new Mission for being effective, caring and re- we spoke with said the staff, post reaching out to families on new sponsive, but made recommenda- whether they were using the foot estates and a second Team Vicar at tions following issues on safety and care or bathing service, respected leadership. their privacy and dignity.” Hollingbourne vicarage. Recruitment files did not contain Paul Coles, chief executive of Age The official name of the Team required information and there had UK Maidstone, said the charity was Ministry, the Hollingbourne va- not been regular criminal record working to update its admin pro- cancy and the Mission post will be checks. Some staff had worked for cedures. He said: “We have a very progressed now the public consulta- the charity for more than 10 years long-serving and stable staff. Some tion has closed. without being re-assessed. Paul Coles of Age UK, Maidstone have been with us for 20 years. We It follows discussions that began The CQC also said individuals’ are pleased that the CQC did such nearly two years ago in light of va- with the CQC. care needs should be reviewed However, the inspectors praised a detailed inspection of our service cancies and how the church should more regularly and reviews sought because it enables us to learn from respond to falling and aging congre- the care provided, reporting that on the service. Fire risk assessments people they interviewed said the that and ensure that we are provid- gations – a decision described by were overdue and the new man- ing the best service to our clients. Rural Dean Rev Dick Venn as an “in- staff were well trained and knew ager had taken up the post earlier what they were doing. One person “If any of our clients are worried, spiration from God”. this year, but had not yet registered they can ring and talk to our staff.” He said: “It hasn’t been an easy described the service as “first class” decision. Every PCC has had to look quite carefully and hard about the way forward and this is what we want to do. Newlyweds start life on “It is important for the Church to look at its mission work and to strike the balance between catering for our the back of a tractor existing congregations and reaching out to new people, or the Church A TRACTOR played a starring role in the Bearsted blessing of newly-weds will cease to exist.” James and Laura Jefferys. James married his Danish bride in the cathedral in their home town of Rev Venn, who retires as vicar of Aarhus, Denmark’s the Len Valley Benefice in Septem- Castle PA to second largest city, but ber, has urged the church to start ad- they came back to vertising his post now, to ensure the Bearsted for a blessing stand down congregation isn’t left without a at Holy Cross Church – THE personal assistant to the chief vicar for any length of time and to and a scenic tractor ride executive of Leeds Castle is to retire ensure his success in increasing at- through the grounds of after 21 years. tendance can be built on. the Bearsted Woodland Beverley Clark intends to spend Trust. time travelling with her husband. New chairman James’ mum Sandra Chief executive Sir David Steel paid tribute to Beverley in the Leeds KAY Lowe has taken over as chair- Knatchbull lives at Gore and Broomfield parish magazine. man of Vinters Park Residents’ As- Cottage, which adjoins He said: “Change in personnel is sociation. She replaces Gerry Kirrage the Woodland Trust, and always difficult and thankfully we who is standing down. the family stores the Kay has lived in Vinters Park for tractor which belonged do not have a high turnover in staff more than 40 years and hopes to see for more than 40 years working for the foundation. more events such as coffee morn- to Woodland Trust “We miss them all but this month ings, drop-in meetings for older peo- benefactor Pauline we are losing one of our longest- ple and festive events. Moore. serving members of staff. She can be contacted by letter to It seemed a fitting “Mrs Beverley Clark, PA to the the centre in Aldon Close or by its mode of transport to chief executive since 1995, will step Facebook page. travel to and from the down so that she and her husband church, with the blessing can spend time travelling and at- of the Woodland Trust. tending to their many hobbies. Panto auditions James (27) and Laura (31), who are musicians, met when they were “She will be missed greatly by all LEEDS Amateur Dramatic Society students at Canterbury University. who work here, but also by those in (LADS) is holding auditions for next Mrs Knatchbull, who travelled to Denmark for the wedding with her the surrounding area, for whom she year’s pantomime, Robin Hood, husband Andrew and other family members, said of the Bearsted has been the main point of contact.” which will be staged in February. blessing journey: “Because we live the other side of the Woodland Trust Beverley Clark is pictured with They will be held in the village to the church and have Pauline’s tractor, it seemed the ideal solution to Leeds Castle patron Her Royal hall at 2pm on September 18. Details get to and from the church.” Highness Princess Alexandra in are on the LADS Facebook page. 2014.
4 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Call 01622 755641 Candidates line Maidstone 78 King Street, ME14 1BH up for by-election www.maidstonedenturestudio.co.uk A BY-PASS for Leeds and Langley A housing officer for Maidstone Eat, Smile and Talk with Confidence... is listed as a key campaign mes- and Ashford councils for 20 years sage by one candidate standing for until his retirement, he has pledged a seat in Maidstone Council’s by- to represent the interests of the • EXPRESS 1 Hour Denture Repair election on Thursday, September 8. area’s social housing tenants. His Former borough councillor Bob three daughters live in the ward and • New Bespoke Dentures Hinder (left) is he is the chairman of governors at one of five people Molehill Copse Academy. He previ- • FREE Initial Consultation to put their name ously worked in Fleet Street for the forward for the Daily Telegraph, The Sun and the Shepway South London Evening News. seat, vacant fol- Milden Choongo (64), from Shep- lowing the death way, will stand for the Liberal De- of Ukip council- mocrats, after fighting for a seat in lor David the ward in May. He will be looking Sargeant (77) after a heart attack on to secure investment for the area May 13. from any development that results Mr Hinder (75), who is chairman from the Local Plan. of Boxley Parish Council and whose Jon Hicks, from Maidstone, will wife Wendy is on the borough coun- be standing as an Independent, cil, will represent the Conservative while Dan Wilkinson, a tireless cam- Party. He believes a bypass will be paigner for the homeless and the crucial to alleviate traffic in Willing- founder of Maidstone Momentum, ton Street, Senacre and Shepway. will be standing for the Labour John Barned (73), from Lenham, Party. He lives in Marden. hopes to retain the seat for Ukip. Mr Cllr Sargeant was the first Ukip Barned defected from the Tories in councillor to earn a place on Maid- 2015, after representing Harriet- stone Council and the first leader of sham and Lenham for four years. the party in the borough.
“When our new fence looks this good, is maintenance free and guaranteed for 25 years, it’s a no-brainer”
New boats to inspire success MAIDSTONE Invicta Rowing Club (MIRC) celebrated four additions to its fleet at a boat naming ceremony. The boats – a coxless four, two double sculls and a single scull – are named the Anne Salmon, Tom Saunders, Sue Mobbs and Alistair Hill after members of the club who have all volunteered their time and effort over many years on the club committee. Club chairman Harry Salmon said: "It is especially pleasing to have this ceremony after such success for the Team GB rowing squad at Rio. British rowing is riding high and these new boats will help Maidstone Invicta bring through another generation of athletes to compete at the highest levels of our sport." Director of rowing, Brian Humphris, said: “These new boats are all part of our drive to turn the club into the regional centre of excellence". Our customers tell us they’re glad they chose Colourfence, and were delighted with our range of colours. They love that our fences are tested to withstand merciless weather – even ‘Bit of a do’ for charity wind gusts of up to 130mph. They enjoy how it 25yr is maintenance free, and they love the peace of GUARANTEE A BIT of a (Hair) Do at a salon in a lot of people turning up and our mind provided by its 25-year guarantee*. For Vinters Park has raised more than stylists’ hard work. Bazza would £1,500 for Dementia UK. have been so proud.” a lifetime of trouble-free garden enjoyment, About 100 people turned out for a A guess-the-number contest, in make yours a Colourfence garden. trim and tidy at the Revolution which a mini was filled with bal- salon, where staff put their takings loons, and a raffle, with prizes do- For a free no-obligation quote, please contact us now. towards the charity, in memory of nated by The George at Leeds; The the owner’s father Barry Clarke. Chequers Inn at Loose; B&Q; Leeds 01622 233322 Simon Clarke, who owns the Castle; Hollywood Bowl and The www.colourfencemidkent.co.uk salon in Snowdon Parade, said: Rose, Bearsted, helped swell the “This was a great success, thanks to funds to over £1,500. *Terms & Conditions apply please ask for details
Maidstone East September 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Charity day is childs’ play WORKERS at Maidstone Town on the last day to raise money for Post Office made their last day it. We had a good laugh and quite a child’s play before moving to a lot of people were putting money new site. in the bucket so the fund must have Staff at the Bank Street store done well.” grabbed dummies and nappies and For some longer-serving col- dressed up as under-fives to help leagues, the post office move is counter clerk Jeanette Cooper raise their second as they worked at the money for the Oliver Fisher Special previous site in King Street, which Care Unit at Medway Maritime closed nearly 10 years ago. Hospital. Jeanette Cooper (second from right) with colleagues in fancy dress The Bank Street branch closed on The unit saved the life of her 17- mum Nicki, along with her mum, The fancy dress day marked the week premature grandson, Henry Sharon Terry. post office’s move to new premises Wednesday, August 17 with its suc- Cooper, of Downswood, whose Jeanette said: “Henry is doing within the WH Smith store on cessor opening next day. No jobs story touched Downs Mail readers’ fantastically well. He’s a happy lit- Week Street, less than 250m away. have been lost in the transfer. hearts. Jeanette and her family have tle boy and we get beautiful smiles Jeanette said: “It is a sad occa- The new opening hours are from been fundraising for the charity from him.” Since he was born sion, but we have decided to go out 9am to 5.30pm Monday, Wednes- and their next event will be a 5k weighing just 1lb 2oz last Decem- with a bang. We had a collecting tin day, Thursday and Friday; 9.30am run at Capstone Park, Medway. ber, the youngster has progressed in the post office for the baby unit to 5.30pm on Tuesday and 9am to Jeanette will run with Henry’s to a healthy 10lb. and the staff suggested dressing up 12.30pm on Saturday. Baroque night Hunt for suspect after burglary THE Pepusch Consort is to perform an evening of baroque chamber POLICE have issued a picture of volved in what police described house in Marley Road in a silver music in aid of the Baptist church a man they want as an aggravated burglary. vehicle. Two mobile phones are in Harrietsham. to question The computer-generated pic- reported to have been stolen dur- Tickets for the concert at the about a raid by a ture builds on the details already ing the incident at about 5pm on church, which starts at 7.30pm on gang of four at a held by police of a slim man, Thursday, July 14. Saturday, September 24, are £8. home in Harriet- about 5ft 11in tall, who spoke Anyone with information is To reserve yours call Pat King on sham. with a local accent. asked to call Kent Police on 01622 01622 851843 or Stephen Morris The man, who The residents were threatened 604100 quoting YY/015480/16 or on 850948 or send an email to was wearing a by the suspects. No one was hurt. Kent Crimestoppers, anony- [email protected]. hoodie, was in- The gang drove off from the mously, on 0800 555111.
Charity Night for Hi Kent WKHFRXQW\·V RZQ GHDI DQG hard ooff hearing charity to celebrate our 30th Anniversary Year!
Strictly Dance Night x %DWKURRP x ([WHQVLRQV Main Hall, Maidstone Grammar School, x .LWFKHQV Barton Road, Maidstone ME15 7BT x 0DLQWHQDQFH
Saturday 17 September at 8.00pm x 5HQRYDWLRQV Get ready for the new Strictly series ! x :HWURRPV 'RQ·WMXVW ZDWFK LW - come along and learn it ! Dancing With Catherine will be teaching you the populararr Ballroom and Latin dances. Catherine has been trained by Ian Waite $OODVSHFWVRIZRUN DQG1DWDOLH /RZH IURP ¶6WULFWO\ &RPH 'DQFLQJ· IURPVWDUWWRILQLVK Competitions with prizes Dancing display from Star Dance Club
Tickets £10.00 (to include a glass of Prosecco on arrival) &DOOIRUIUHHTXRWH TToo book tickets call Hi Kent during office hours on 01622 691151 (PDLOEHDUVWHGSURSHUW\VHUYLFHV#JPDLOFRP (credit/debit cards accepted) For information email [email protected]
6 Maidstone East September 2016 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk
Maidstone East September 2016 7 News | Roads and Development downsmail.co.uk Work delayed on homes site WORK will start on 800 houses south of the A274 Sutton Road in Langley no earlier than autumn 2017, the developers have confirmed. Countryside, which has planning to examine them in detail, causing 800 new homes and the associated A Countryside statement added: permission granted by Maidstone widespread anger. community facilities provides the “Careful consideration has also Borough Council subject to strict It has also brought the need for a opportunity to both stimulate the been given to the impact on the infrastructure conditions, has been Leeds-Langley relief road back into local economy and assist Maid- local road network of this and other accused of “jumping the gun”. the equation, just a few months be- stone Borough Council’s aim to im- proposed housing developments in Downs Mail understands the fore the county council elections in prove the supply of high-quality south east Maidstone. local MP Helen Whately has re- May next year. new homes in the borough. “Countryside has agreed a sig- ferred the application and two oth- Mrs Whately said: “The total “Overall, there’s a lot of excite- nificant contribution to the Coun- ers – which total 1,300 dwellings in number of homes is extraordinarily ment about this particular develop- cil’s Integrated Transport Strategy all – recently put through by MBC high and it doesn’t make sense to ment and we look forward to for Maidstone, which will go to- to the Secretary of State for inde- press on without material invest- delivering this fantastic scheme.” wards junction improvements and pendent examination. ment in the road network.” A spokesman for Countryside ac- significant enhancements to local She, along with a number of Andrew Carrington, managing knowledged there were unresolved bus services. Work on the develop- county councillors including Gary director of strategic land at Coun- issues and added: “I can’t see it ment is expected to start next year.” Cooke and Jenny Whittle and local tryside, said: “The delivery of up to starting before autumn next year.” parish councils, is “deeply con- cerned” about the impact large- scale housing will have on roads, schools and local amenities. Residents voice their fears over traffic Cllr Cooke says the transport concerns are far from satisfied, and REPRESENTATIVES from Kent Kent County Council’s infrastruc- County Council met residents of ture position is very much at odds Leeds to discuss increasing with MBC’s, especially in light of volumes of traffic running through its “incessant push for more hous- the village. ing”. Cllr Gary Cooke called the site He added: “The developers are meeting after resident Robert jumping the gun somewhat. We are Jackson got in touch to complain nowhere near a situation where about vehicle numbers, the they can be talking with such con- aggressive conduct of some fidence about start dates. motorists, damage by hit-and-run “For instance, MBC is asking for drivers and lorries ignoring the the establishment of bus lanes, even HGV ban. though KCC is unlikely to agree to Kirstie Williams and Susan bus lanes.” Laporte from KCC also joined to MBC plans to build more than offer their observations and pressure on Leeds, its surrounding Cllr Cooke is pictured with 18,000 houses. expertise. villages and on Willington Street as residents Robert Jackson, Lesley The three A274 options were But the residents called for action well as express concerns about the Martin, Anitra Irrera, Lesley Finlay taken from the local plan before a on the relief road to reduce the level of house building. and parish councillor John Govett. government inspector had a chance Concern grows Plan to redevelop garages after accident RESIDENTS have been told Continued from page one about a plan for yet more new more large housing developments houses off the Sutton Road. planned off the A274 at Langley. Golding Homes told those liv- The proposals for 1,300 homes ing near the site in Park Wood on have been given outline planning August 23 about its proposition to permission – with certain highways demolish its 31 garages – off conditions – by Maidstone Borough Francis Lane, opposite the BP Council. garage – to build nine two- and The issue of the effects housing three-bedroom terraced proper- will have on local infrastructure is ties, plus parking. likely to become an issue at next No planning application has- year’s county council elections. been submitted as yet, but Gold- Mr Jackson has become concerned ing Homes says the proposal is not just by the numbers of vehicles part of a wider strategy by the in Leeds but the aggressive nature of company, looking at the re- the driving and conduct of the driv- development of its community the area”. She said it was still too garage site, which is not well ers. garage blocks. early to say whether the houses used and a little run-down, for A neighbour’s dog – a springer While the site is not included in would be sold on the open mar- development. We look forward to spaniel – was also clipped by a car in Maidstone Council’s Local Plan, ket, leased or offered on a shared- consulting with local residents on Upper Street in Leeds, but survived. a spokesman for Golding Homes ownership basis. the proposal plans and will wel- said Maidstone Council fully Chris Blundell, the director of come their views.” supported the home-provider’s development and commercial Residents were invited to at- Read our archived “garage redevelopment strategy” services at Golding Homes, said: tend the consultation meeting, at as a way of finding new sites for “We are committed to providing the garage block, where Golding editions FREE online at “desperately needed housing in good quality homes for local peo- Homes’ staff answered some of www.downsmail.co.uk ple and have identified this their questions.
8 Maidstone East September 2016 ElEliminateiminate glaglarere fforor
• Visual MigraineMigraine • Multiple SclerosisSclerosis • ChronicChr onic FatigueFatigue SyndromeSyndrome • “Supermarket“S upermarket Flicker“ • Extended use ofof computercomputer screens • Night driving
Originally designed forfor military use forfor air-trafficair-traffic ccontrollersontrollers using ccomputersomputers forfor 14, 16, 18 hourshours a dadayy ttoo eliminaeliminatete glare. NoNoww has been demilitarised and availableavailable toto all thathatt suffer frfromom glare issues.
I hahaveve suffered frfromom multiple sclersclerosisosis fforor the last 20 years and hahaveve just recenrecentlytly ccollectedollected my new pair ooff ccopperopper mesh
spectacles, thetheyy hahaveve eliminaeliminatedted the
momotiontion sickness I used toto gegett in the ccarar so nonoww I do
nonott getget ccarar sick ananymore!ymore!
Mrs L, Bearsted “ “ “ “ “ “ TheThe glasses wworkedorked very well, thetheyy nonott only helped toto relax the eeyesyes but also, with the addition ooff the UV layer,layer, helped toto relax the surrsurroundingsoundings TheTheh uniquuuniqueniquniqueme meshmeshh toto help tackle symptsymptomsoms such as headaches and Alignsli ns scatteredsscaatterettteredre lack ofof focus,focus, improvingimproving the ability toto wworkork on the computercomputer whilst wearing them. ThanksThanks so much toto llightighth reflections,rrefflfleections,cttions,n Kings Hill Opticians fforor their help. DDampensampensmpensm e s flicker,f c er,er ShSharpensh rppensen contrast,coonnttrast, Miss A, West Malling ReducesReedue u es eye eyye strain strt ainaiai aandd DeflectsDeffleclectsts EMIEM rradiations.aadiadiai tionsionsss. BOOK YOURYOUR FREE TRIAL TODAYTODAAYY PlPleaseease vivisitsit ourour websitewebsite forfor moremore detailsdetails Kings Hill Opticians t: 01732 875544 2 Liberty Square, Kings Hill, www.kingshillopticians.co.ukwww.kingshillopticians.co.uk WestWest Malling, Kent,Kent, ME19 4AU4AU [email protected]
Maidstone East September 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Work starts to repair churches MAJOR work starts at Leeds “We will then need to start restor- church this month in a race to re- ing our depleted funds.” pair the roof before the winter Scaffolding will be erected for the weather sets in. work, which is expected to take The work is expected to cost about two months, but will not stop about £27,000, but those responsi- services going ahead. ble for the building have been ad- Meanwhile, the tower at Broom- vised not to start until now because field needs repointing and some of of a bat in the 15th century belfry. the oldest crumbling ragstones It is hoped the work, which will need replacing. Mr Hardy says a involve stripping the entire north survey will be carried out shortly to A plum job for church funds side of the aisle roof and “patch re- get an idea of the extent and poten- pairs” elsewhere to the crumbling tial cost of the work. WHO says rural traditions are dying out? Picking plums in August is fast Kent tiles, will see it removed from If you fancy raising money for becoming a popular pursuit in Leeds. English Heritage’s At Risk Register. your local church, why not take The harvest of Victoria plums was first gifted to the Friends of St Church warden Brian Hardy said part in the Friends of Kent Nicholas’ Church and its sister at Broomfield by fruit farmer Simon Brice an application to the National Lot- Churches Ride and Stride on Sep- about five years ago. Now, at the end of August, the signs go up tery last year was unsuccessful and tember 11? directing the public to the orchard just off Back Street. the work would empty the church Half the money raised in spon- The event, which usually runs across three weekends, is co-ordinated fabric fund. sorship by individuals cycling, by volunteers from the friends group. He added: “We have been aware walking or horse-riding between Judi Taylor said: “Simon is keen to support the local churches and has of the need to make these repairs churches will go to the church of very generously donated the crop for the last few years so that we can for some time and thanks to a gen- their choice, with the rest going to give grants to maintain the fabric of the buildings.” erous contribution from the Friends the Friends group fund that offers The timing could not be better, with a recent report showing that not of Leeds and Broomfield Churches, grants to Kent churches in need of only is re-pointing work required at Broomfield, but large-scale roof we can finally get started, even if it help with structural repairs. repairs at Leeds’ church. means borrowing the last £1,500 or Churches taking part will be In previous years the event, which is open to anyone, has raised an so needed to complete the work. manned from 10am to 6pm, many impressive £2-3,000. The public are invited to pick their own plums, with “We want to get the roof sound serving refreshments. For more de- all the money going to the two churches. Look out for the signs in Leeds before the weather turns, as we tails visit the website at village. have already had leaks inside. www.friendsofkentchurches.co.uk.
HAMILTON KITCHENS Discover our stunning range of contemporary & traditional designs
❚ Free no obligation consultation & design ❚ All building works undertaken. ❚ Quality ❚ Design ❚ Imagination ❚ Better and at the right price ✓ www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk ❚ Tel: 01622 844897 Visit our showroom at Warmlake Business Estate, Maidstone Road, Sutton Valence, Kent ME17 3LQ
10 Maidstone East September 2016 ADCloudy2ClearVERRTTORIAL r AnnAnnounceou Trusted Trader Partnership
Consumer champions Which? Group Managing Director Marcus of tradespeople perhaps don’t focus good business sense. I get a have now joined the thousands McGee believes that Which? on customer care as much as they huge amount of business from of customers who recognise that have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s should do, we make sure we turn up friends and family of people I’ve Cloudy2Clear Windows really are long standing company policy of when we say we will, do the job the done work for, which just goes a business that you can TRUST. delivering the highest standards customer requires and leave their to show how much a little bit of The company which specialises possible at all times. ‘Our service house as clean as a whistle. efffffifort is appreciated idbh as both my in repairing windows which are is simple. If your double glazing Locally Cloudy2Clear service customers and, obviously a body steamed up, broken or damaged has misted up we can replace the Maidstone & surrounding areas as nationally important as Which? by replacing the panes – not the glass at a fraction of the cost of and manager Luke Roberts agrees now recognise.’ frames has received the coveted a new window, in any type of that this approach is a major So, if your windows are steamed ‘Which Trusted TTrrader’ status frame, and with a new 25 year factor in his success. ‘The truth up, broken or damaged give Tom after going through a rigorous guarantee. But it’s not just about is that it’s not just the personal a call for a free quotation on accreditation process entirely saving people money, although that satisfaction that I get from doing 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be focussed on customer service. obviously helps. Whilst a number a good job but also it makes happy to help!
Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An AAverageverage Quote WWillWiill TTaTakeake No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!
I will build mmy churchh
SOUTH EAST For all the latest information and to buy tickets go to: 12 – 13 October 2016 CREonline.co.uk or call 01793 418218 Kent Event Centre, Maidstone
CREonline THE ONLY PLACE TO FIND A HUGE RANGE OF CHURCH RESOURCES CREonline.co.uk/tv UNDER ONE ROOF! @CRE_churchshow
Maidstone East September 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Boat burgled ONE of Maidstone's most popular Discount store expands restaurants has been burgled with wine and cash stolen. The Embankment Bar and Restaurant, which floats on the as Mall is renovated River Medway, was broken into. Money was taken from the till POPULAR discount retailer and bottles of prosecco were stolen. Poundland is set to expand its Police said the investigation into store in The Mall in Maidstone the break-in was ongoing and no after a complete refit as a £5m ren- Poundland is one had been arrested in connec- ovation of the centre reaches com- expanding and tion with it. pletion. refitting its store The Works, which was devas- in The Mall Cadets’ march tated by fire at its premises in Week shopping centre CADETS from the Kent Wing Air Street premises last year, will also in Maidstone, Training Corps travelled to Hol- move to the shopping complex. which is land to take part in the annual Ni- The new store will be next to the jmegen Marches – 160km hike over H.Samuel jewellers on the upper undergoing a four days. level, in a unit formerly occupied by £5m renovation Samantha’s. find a buyer for the retail chain, popular with our shoppers.” Among the 62 Kent youngsters Poundland is taking on a unit which has shut all its stores and laid Retailer assets manager Gareth were members from 40F Maidstone next door, meaning the present ten- off 11,000 workers. Holland said: “With the extensive and 500 Headcorn units. ant, M&J Luggage, will move to a The Mall has been undergoing a refurbishment of The Mall, Maid- Around 50,000 people from vacant space adjacent to it. massive £5m refurbishment pro- stone almost complete, Poundland across Europe attended the event It is hoped that retailer, T J gramme with new entrances, light- has exchanged an agreement to up- this year. Hughes, will be nearing completion ing, toilets and an expansion of size and refurbish its existing store of its new store at The Mall by the Golden Boot into the former Ship within The Mall to create a unit of Park fun day time the centre’s works are due to Inn on Gabriel's Hill. almost 10,000sqft. finish at the end of September. Mall spokesman Suzie Brindle “The new store should be open A COMMUNITY fun day takes Former BHS workers, some of said: “We’re thrilled to be welcom- almost simultaneously with the place at Maidstone’s Clare Park on whom had been with the chain for ing The Works to The Mall, and a opening of the new 30,000sqft TJ September 11. There will be stalls decades, landed jobs at the store in brand new store for Poundland. Hughes store. The refurbishment and games from 11am until 4pm. the same week they were made re- “There are lots of exciting will be fully completed by the end dundant. changes taking place, and we’re of September, when further new For more local news Administrators were unable to sure both new stores will be hugely lettings will be announced.” www.downsmail.co.uk
Introducing to you, our interior and exterior ranges of porcelain exclusively available and ready to provide you with a seamless continuation of flooring from inside to out. Not forgetting our extensive range of natural stone flooring that can also provide you with that inside to outside flooring you desire. The Stone Tile Warehouse thestonetilewarehouse @stonetileware Visit our warehouse/showroom - Unit 10, Integra ME, Bircholt Road, Parkwood, Maidstone, Kent ME15 9GQ 01622 679157 Visit us today www.thestonetilewarehouse.co.uk Stone Flooring Specialists
12 Maidstone East September 2016 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk NEVER TOO OLD FOR A MORTGAGE! With over 20 years’ But that need not be the case. “My advice for first time buyers would be very experience in the Whether you need to repay a mortgage, different than if I were speaking with somebody mortgage market finance some unexpected outlay - or just approaching retirement. If somebody is Sarah deals with make your retirement more comfortable - concerned about mortgage finance, whatever all manner of there are many options available. Retirement their age, I would strongly recommend a mortgage mortgages or Equity Release can provide a conversation. While some people know exactly enquiries. Whether safe and very welcome solution to many what they want and need, there are many people it is for a new house people who just don’t know that this may be who find there are options available they just purchase, a re- an option. didn’t know existed!” mortgage, a buy-to- Local adviser Sarah Ferrell says: “I see so Sarah is happy to visit your home and, unlike let enquiry or to many people who are worried about their many banks, she is not just available 9-5 but will discuss releasing finances at a time in their lives when they offer flexible times to suit her clients. equity from your home in retirement, Sarah really don’t want financial pressure. Being is happy to discuss any mortgage needs with able to take these worries away is anybody – regardless of age. She is one of tremendously rewarding.” the few advisers fully qualified and licensed Call Sarah at to deal with “traditional” and retirement There are so many different types of Professional Mortgage Services lending. Her clients are currently aged mortgage – be that in the “traditional” between 19 and 93! market or be it a retirement mortgage - which can be set up in many different ways Through no fault of their own, an increasing M: 07789007447 so it is definitely not “one size fits all.” number of people are carrying debt into T: 01622 631372 retirement making the “Golden Years” Sarah takes a great deal of time to work out potentially worrying because of financial the exact solution which is best for each E:[email protected] pressures. individual at their particular stage of life.