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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 . 3 ful year yet, raising more than £3,000 for the , Surrey and Sus- sex Air Ambulance. Bride’s tractor trip Hundreds of visitors flocked to A TRACTOR provided the perfect 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] ; 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 .

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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.

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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 , , AGE UK Maidstone was given a glowing report on its staff and care but Boxley, Thurnham, Detling, Leeds, Broomfield, , has been told by a health watchdog that it must improve its admin. Kingswood, Langley and – 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 , 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.

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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 , 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 . 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 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.

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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.

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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.

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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 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

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Maidstone East September 2016 13 News downsmail.co.uk Town’s treasures on show MAIDSTONE is to join the country’s biggest heritage festival, celebrating the county town’s history, architecture, and culture over four days of free events. Taking place from September 8- 11, Heritage Open Days is a na- tional event that sees more than 40,000 volunteers across organise over 5,000 events. Maidstone will be contributing seven unique experiences in Maid- stone this year, encouraging resi- dents and visitors to “treasure your treasures”. The open days aim to champion their local heritage and show sup- port for the cultural and historic assets on their doorsteps. According to Maidstone Bor- The Archbishops’ Palace and, right, All Saints’ Church ough Council, which is helping to whitt-Drake Museum of hosting a pop-up museum on co-ordinate the open days, the Carriages across all four days, op- September 10. town has a “colourful history posite the Archbishops’ Palace. It  Mote Park is host to guided shaped by battles, revolts, and mad is open from noon to 4pm daily. tours on Friday, September 9, to priests and, later, industrialists and  All Saints’ Church on the river- discover more about the history Victorian benefactors”, all of which side is open from 10am to 4pm of the park. Tours are free but have left their mark on the town. across all four days. Entrance is limited to 20 places, with pre- Councillor David Pickett, chair-  The Archbishops’ Palace will free. A tour of the bell tower must booking advised. man of the Maidstone Borough be open to the public from 10am be pre-booked.  Maidstone Museum is offering Council’s heritage, culture and to 4pm on Thursday, September  Corpus Christi Hall in Earl visitors a chance to “Explore leisure committee, said: “Whether 8, providing a chance to view the Street will also be open on all Egypt” on September 10, with a it’s uncovering the magnificent magnificent ragstone palace, orig- days, from 10am to 4pm. The special peek at the Egyptian col- and important collections our mu- inally built for the Archbishops of 12th-century hall will host special lections. Places are free but lim- seums, or investigating the historic Canterbury and now home to the exhibitions by Maidstone Histori- ited to 15 people with architecture and cultural signifi- Kent Register Office. Free tours cal Society on September 8 and 9, pre-booking. cance of structures often closed to are available at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, featuring displays of photo-  At St Michael & All Angels’ the public, this celebration of local 2pm and 3pm for a maximum of graphs, documents, maps and Church in Tonbridge Road on treasures will make everybody 20 people, and must be booked in newspapers reflecting Maid- September 10, visitors can enjoy a proud of the region’s history.” advance. stone’s heritage. Maidstone Area peek inside. It is open from 10am For more information, click onto  Enjoy free entry to the Tyr- Archaeological Group will be to 4.30pm. www.visitmaidstone.com. Call for waste views INCREASING recycling and re- ducing the amount of rubbish cre- ated are central aims identified by Kent County Council (KCC) in a re- view of waste management. In spite of initiatives to burn rub- bish at Aylesford; turn glass into jewellery, food into compost and cooking fat into fuel, KCC’s draft Waste Disposal Strategy says more needs to be done to improve Kent’s 70% recycle rate. The report says more budget sav- Chair boost to Blue Bus ings are needed. It also notes that domestic rubbish is expected to rise FOUR members of The Rotary Club been taken ill or injured to the bus, or composted is treated at the by 22% by 2031, from 711,000 to of Maidstone Riverside visited the where we can treat them for minor Allington Waste to Energy facility town’s Urban Blue Bus to officially problems. 864,000 tonnes, as the more houses near Maidstone, where it is burned hand over the patient chair that the “Where it is necessary to call for are built and the population in- under controlled conditions to pro- club had recently donated. an ambulance, the chair is a quick creases. duce steam, which is used to gen- Past President Mary Lynn, and easy means for us to have the The county council, which uses erate electricity. The facility is volunteered to try out the chair and patient ready when it arrives.” private firms The Slattery Partner- operated by Kent Enviropower. the Urban Blue Bus team Every Saturday night, the Urban ship, Commercial Services Kent, KCC is asking the public to com- demonstrated how much easier this Blue Bus team will be available in FCC Environment and Biffa to ment on its aims and ambitions be- chair is to use rather than the old the town centre to provide medical manage its collection services, says fore the detail of how they might be standard type. facilities to those presenting with it will continue to commission serv- achieved is consulted on further. It The leader of the Bus Team, Val minor injuries. ices but with an even greater em- has pledged to review its strategy Jacobs, explained that the chair has They also provide emotional phasis on reducing rubbish going every five years. already been put to good use on support, drug and alcohol to landfill, burning less, recycling To view and respond to the draft many occasions. counselling and other support to and reusing more and using tech- waste management strategy visit She said: “ We often have to move vulnerable people in need of nology to improve the customer ex- www.kent.gov.uk/wastestrategy. young people from where they have assistance and practical help. perience. Comments will be taken up until Waste that is not reused, recycled October 2.

14 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Plan to remove dog waste bins CALLING ALL MAIDSTONE Borough Council (MBC) is getting rid of dog waste bins to cut costs. The council claims the waste de- positories are in poor condition LANDLORDS and are to be removed. Now the authority's bosses are Do you have a advising dog-owners to clear up after their animals and that "any property in Maidstone? bin will do" from now on. A statement today from MBC states: "Dog owners can use litter or household rubbish bins which suppose every bin must be taken means all the old dog waste bins on an individual basis." LET across the borough, many of which Cllr Marion Ring, chairman of • We are currently are in a state of disrepair, will be the communities, housing and en- letting properties taken out over the next few vironment committee said: “Most months. dog owners in Maidstone already faster than our "Their removal will not only re- do the right thing and use one of competitors duce the cost to dispose of the the many rubbish bins in the bor- waste, which if collected sepa- ough. IN 8 rately, must be sent for specialist "We are sure that they will con- DAYS disposal but will also mean that, tinue to use any litter bins avail- unlike the dog waste bins, any of able or their black wheeled bins to • On average our the council’s street cleansing team clear up after their dogs. can empty the litter bins to ensure “The removal of the old dog LET properties are let they do not become overfilled." waste bins will allow us to focus within 2 weeks Tory borough councillor Matt our resources on keeping our bor- Boughton only cautiously wel- ough clean while still supporting comed the move, adding: "It de- those who dispose of their litter pends where the waste ends up. I and dog waste responsibly.” • 95% of our IN 4 properties are let Cash for youth development DAYS at the asking FIFTEEN organisations that provide activities to divert young people price away from crime and antisocial behaviour have received £68,276 from Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott (pictured). LET They include -based Kenward Trust’s Think Differently • Our tenants stay project, which received £4,000 to 1 help fund an educational on average 2 /2 intervention programme around years the dangers of drink and drugs. John Shanley, the trust’s project IN 5 manager, said this would allow its DAYS work to expand to take in more schools, youth projects and young person housing projects. “IF YOUR CURRENT AGENT Young Kent’s Catalyst programme, which has been IS STRUGGLING TO LET awarded £4,800, will use the YOUR PROPERTY THEN money to support unemployed 16 to 25-year-olds, helping them to become more employable. CALL ME TODAY” Julie Stones, Young Kent’s director of development, said: “The grant Justine Dale will allow us to work with an additional 36 young people in the Maidstone area, supporting them through engagement in positive Lettings Manager activities, linking with their communities and coaching them on a pathway to a better future.” Bearsted Office Carnival to celebrate Olympics Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ THE public are invited to celebrate the country’s Olympic success – Rio Tel: 01622 737800 carnival-style – in Maidstone on Saturday, September 3. Prizes will be presented for the best child’s outfit, with performances by a Samba band and demonstrations of sports offered in the town. Office The free Access for All event – at Market Hall, Lockmeadow – will in- Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN clude opportunities to play blind football and get advice from organi- sations including Maidstone Swimming Club for the Disabled, British Tel: 01622 671200 Guide Dogs, the Centre for Independent Living Kent (CiLK), British Red Cross and Maidstone United FC Raiders. It will run from 10am-1pm. www.ferrisandco.net

Maidstone East September 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk Stones deliver screen messages

AS THE new football season gets events or special offers. a few more local companies to help underway in earnest, Maidstone Club chief executive Bill Williams us and help their visibility by be- United fans can enjoy seeing their said: “This screen will really add to coming screen advertisers.” name in lights. the quality of the match day experi- Icom managing director John The Gallagher Stadium is getting ence at Maidstone United and give Donoghue added: “In our business, a large LED screen for the new cam- us a new outlet for companies wish- we know the importance of good paign. ing to advertise at the stadium, as all communications and how technol- It will display the score and time our traditional perimeter boards ogy can enhance it. This new addi- during the match, with advertising have now sold out. tion will give a more professional and club messages before and after “We have almost covered the in- look to the place and be highly visi- A screen similar to the one to be the game, as well as half time. stallation costs. There is still room for ble for advertisers.” installed at the Gallagher Stadium Measuring four metres by three metres, it will be on the riverside boundary – offering good visibility for most spectators. Window of opportunity for sponsorship deal The screen is similar to the one in- stalled at fellow Vanarama National MAIDSTONE United has signed an Dominic Baxter extension to its sponsorship deal League club Aldershot Town. (in suit) of With a full colour display updated with Britelite Windows. The agreement will see the Britelite with, in real-time, LED displays can also from left, Vas allow videos to be shown. These can company continue its support of Karagiannis, Kevin include replays of goals plus match the Stones until the end of the highlights at half-time or even fan 2017/18 season. Lokko, Stones announcements, such as birthdays Britelite, which has been manager Jay and marriage proposals. associated with the Vanarama Saunders, Dumebi Aylesford-based telecoms and se- National League newcomers for Dumaka and Ben more than 40 years, returned as curity company Icom, who spon- Greenhalgh main sponsor in 2011. sored the club a few seasons ago, are Club chief executive Bill Williams Britelite director Dominic Baxter start a season in the top flight of sponsoring the screen, due to be in- added: "We are so fortunate to said: "We are delighted to extend non-league football and playing in stalled in September. have a main sponsor like Britelite our sponsorship with Maidstone front of crowds of more than 2,000. Advertising slots are now on sale Windows. They have been with us United. When we became main "We have really benefitted from and because the message can be on this incredible journey and we sponsor again, the club were our association with the club, which changed regularly, it is a cost-effec- couldn't have asked for better playing 12 miles out of town, but has helped raise awareness of the tive way of letting crowds of more partners during that time." here we are five years on about to Britelite brand.” than 2,000 spectators know about

16 Maidstone East September 2016 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk Annabelle Jane Cake School moves to Bearsted Renowned cake decorator expert guidance. Many of Annabelle’s students Annabelle Jane is proud to have gone on to create their own successful announce the opening of home cake making business plus many more are her new premises in enjoying creating gorgeous cakes for their Bearsted. Annabelle has friends and families. been teaching cake In addition to the range of courses there is a baking and decorating for delightful retail shop brimming with everything over 15 years offering you need for your cake creations; from boards, classes for everyone – boxes and ribbons to icing, marzipan and cutters. from complete beginners Plus there is tin hire too. up to professional standard. Annabelle is always on hand to offer advice and From its new location the cake school guidance for all your cake projects and she looks will be offering a wide range of classes forward to welcoming you to her new premises. including baking, icing, piping, modelling, sugar flower making, chocolate work, cake pops and cupcakes. Classes are available during the Annabelle Jane Cake School, have daytime, in the evenings and at weekends. Plus created an amazing selection of cake For further there is individual tuition for those wishing to baking and decorating courses. For learn a specific skill. information or to book a course visit our website everyone from complete beginners Bubbly, fun and highly knowledgeable Annabelle to professional diploma level. is an inspiration to her students. You too would www.cake-school.uk be amazed at what you could achieve under her We have a fully stocked shop with a large range of baking supplies. See our website for full details of all our lovely courses. 07903 235648 The Old Forge, www.cake-school.uk Bearsted ME14 4DT

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18 Maidstone East September 2016 LEARNING FOR LIFE

Degrees and university placements are no apprentice and provides valuable secure apprenticeships with their work experience and a salary work experience employer. longer the only choice for young people throughout its term. You can see If you are just finishing your leaving school who are considering further why, in a country with a widely GCSEs or A-Levels, or if you are a acknowledged skills shortage, we parent looking to help your education. Leeds village resident JON are moving into a new world of children find a skill and a career, GRAHAM, chief executive of Kent-based JTL work, with much greater parity then take a look at the whole between academic and more range of apprenticeships available Training, explains why… practically-minded school leavers. in the UK via the National For those who are unsure if an Apprenticeship Service at THERE has never been a better apprentice is for them, there are www.getingofar.gov.uk. time for school leavers to consider also traineeships. These are Alternatively, if you’re an apprenticeship. With over 280 shorter programmes of typically specifically looking for a career in different apprenticeships now 8-12 weeks duration which the building services sector, JTL available across over 170 different provide school leavers with would be delighted to help you. industries and a commitment essential work-readiness skills Visit us at www.jtltraining.com, from government to deliver at and at least four weeks of work call 0800 085 2308 or email least three million experience from a local employer, [email protected]. apprenticeships over the next five with bursaries usually available to Good luck with your years, it’s no wonder we are help with travel. Many Trainees examination results and your seeing ever-increasing numbers of and a nationally recognised upon completion successfully future careers! young people choosing to ‘earn qualification on completion. For while they learn’ and developing the employer, in many instances, essential work-ready skills for the Government will cover all the About JTL their futures. training costs involved too. •Established over 25 years, headquartered in Kent Apprenticeships are work- Degrees are no longer the only •Apprenticeships include electrical, plumbing, heating and based learning programmes choice for school leavers ventilating, refrigeration and air-conditioning varying in length from typically 1 considering further education, •Currently training over 6,000 students and working with 3,500 to 4 years, usually requiring and recent research suggests that employers attendance at a local college, three years of university will leave •Working with over 100 FE Colleges in England and Wales together with on-the-job training. a graduate with an average •Local Training Officer for all apprentices and employers If an employer takes you on as an £40,000 of student debt. Compare •Consistently higher than national average pass rates in all apprentice, you'll receive a salary, this with an apprenticeship, disciplines benefits including paid holidays, which costs nothing for the

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Maidstone East September 2016 19 LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE WORK experience is often a useful introduction to the real world of work – and sometimes a job. Bearsted graduate, BELLA FISH, tells the story of her placements ahead of a post-graduate course in journalism… IT WAS during university, I So, I began to apply for a decided that I wanted to go into a mixture of work experience in journalism-based career, but I London, such as copywriting. soon realised that I didn't have After much research and what me to spend several weeks at each the office I felt a lot more very much experience in the field seemed like hundreds of of their London-based comfortable being in a more close- to be 100% certain. applications, I was finally departments. knit environment. After speaking to some of my accepted onto a few internships. My time at all three companies From the first day, I was out lecturers at Oxford Brookes, they I was really surprised to find provided me with very different reporting, copywriting, helping advised me to apply for a few that Sky Sports, The Times opportunities, but I was given the with social media and being different work internships to newspaper and Take a Break chance to experience various asked for input with the ensure that I was going to begin magazine, had responded to me different journalistic roles. newspaper. It didn't take long to the right career path. within a couple of days, inviting I was able to provide the copy notice how much more involved for some of the features and also and hands-on you can be at a help out with the social media slightly smaller company. I would pages. Whilst at Sky Sports I highly recommended starting particularly enjoyed shadowing from a smaller/local workplace presenters Rob Wootton and environment - in any business! Rachel Wyse, where I was given a Throughout the past year, I first-hand insight into what goes have discovered just how on behind our television scenes important work experience is. and how a broadcast team Whether you want to stay in functions efficiently. education or to get a job it shows During my final few weeks of people that you've thought about university I received a call from what you want to do and that you my local newspaper, The Downs have a realistic idea of what Mail, who kindly said that I working life is like. would be able to have work The more experience you can experience with them, too. get before you apply for your first After just less than an hour in full-time job, the better. StudyStudyy OsteopathyOsteopathy BBecome ecome a HHealthcareealthcare ProfessionalProfessional

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Maidstone East September 2016 21 News | A-level results downsmail.co.uk

The wait for results is over for these students from Maplesden Noakes (left) and Maidstone Girls’ Grammar School A-level success for Kent pupils STUDENTS from across the area have been celebrating the fruits of their labours after taking delivery of their A-level results.

They compare well with the na- Lucy V earned straight A* grades tional picture, which shows a small and is planning to go to Exeter Uni- decline (0.1%) in those achieving the versity to study economics. Nine highest A*/A grades (25.9%) but a Head Julie students achieved at least two A*s, record 409,000 accepted for univer- Derrick with including Madeleine B and Chloe F sity (up 3%). some of the (three As and an A*). Madeleine will The number of A-levels taken this successful read maths and Chloe computer sci- year rose to more than 850,000, with students from ence. 13,415 more female entrants. Also in- Invicta Girls At Oakwood Park Grammar,a creasing was the number sitting core Grammar third of all students achieved A*/As. Thirteen gained three or four subjects, with maths entries up 20% School since 2010 and English and biology A*/As. Thomas Ward (two A*s and equally popular. While there was a Walsh (two As, a B, two Cs); Megan English, and C in government and an A) will study maths at St Peter’s sharp rise in students studying com- Bicknell (BTEC sport double distinc- politics, while Ben is heading to Ox- College, Oxford, and head boy puting, fewer sat music, German, tion; two Cs and a B) and Sharonjit ford Brooks University to study law. Christopher Johnson (A* and two As) will go to St Edmund’s Hall, Ox- design and technology and French. Hayre (two As, a B and a C). All are Sian Killington got A*s in sociol- ford, to study politics, philosophy Every student passed at Invicta going to university. ogy and her extended project, as and economics. Robert Crawford Grammar School for Girls, earning One in five sixth-formers achieved well as Bs in media and psychology. (A* and two As) will read history at some 150 A*/A grades – 10.5% at the straight A*/A grades at Sutton Va- BTEC successes went to: Abdul Trinity College, Cambridge. highest level. lence School. Khattak and Alfy Knox, both receiv- Studying maths at St Andrew’s Head Julie Derrick noted the ris- Over the last few years, the school ing two distinction* grades and a B. will be Gwilym Old (A* and three ing number (25.4%) achieving an A*- has shown consistent improvement, Tamana Hasani also received two As); Mitchel Shephard, Joseph B grade, providing more with access distinction*s; Holly Priestley, a dis- with 42% of entries this year taking Hilder and Daniel Harris (two A*s to university. Lara Hebdon, Felicity tinction* in performing arts, business the top marks (A*-A), and 13% A*. and an A) will study at Bath, bio- March and Anastasia Nicholl-Pier- and travel, and Bradley Claytor a Across the cohort, 67% received medical sciences at York and com- son are off to Cambridge, Plymouth place at the University for the Cre- A*-B grades, producing a pass rate puter science at Southampton; and and Leeds to study medicine, den- ative Arts after getting three A*s-C. of 99%, with high achievers includ- Jack Slater (A* and two As) at Exeter. tistry and veterinary science. Will Pemberton, who oversees the ing: Emil Evans (three A*s and a Thomas Collins (three As) is hoping Head girl Georgia Wells gained sixth form, said: “Our students, staff place at Cambridge to read history) to study chemical engineering. five A*/A grades and will study and parents have worked incredibly and Saskia Roestenburg (three A*, Success in the arts and humanities hard, and these results illustrate physiotherapy at Birmingham. reading theatre in Bristol) and Fred- subjects also figured strongly. Head their dedication and commitment.” Other notable achievers were: die Parker (three A*s, reading psy- girl Alice Churchill (three As) will At Simon Stock Catholic School, Catherine Lincoln, Harriet Turner chology at Bath). study theology at Exeter. James 95% of Year 13 students achieved at and Georgia Wells (five A*s and an Head Bruce Grindlay praised the Samuel, Stanley Draper and Charlie least two A levels and more than half A); Lara Hebdon (four A*s); Grace school’s ability to improve the out- Catmull (three As) will take up were A*-B. Carol and Sophie Aujard (four A*s comes of all students, placing it in places at Russell Group universities Notable successes were: Eva Mal- and an A) and Amber-Louise Tree the top 10% of schools nationally this to study history, geography and dig- pass (three A*s); Jack Barnes, and Tom Wei (three A*s and an A). year for “adding academic value”. ital production. Thomas Bourne, Martin Burstow, Invicta’s extended project qualifi- Future Schools’ Trust, which has Valley Park Abigail Clarke, Andrew Coatsworth, A record 57% of cation saw 36 pupils earn A*/As. sites at Cornwallis and New Line School George Craven, Holly Davey, Amy students earned A/A* Mrs Derrick said: “Our students Learning Academies, had 131 sixth- grades, with 87% an A*-C pass. have yet again risen to the challenge formers taking A-levels, and 62% Dowd, Louise Goswell, Anna Harri- son, Helena Sampayo, Ethan Notable performances came from: of combining their own academic achieved an A*-C grade. Daniel Greenhead (three As), Lucy achievement and raising nearly Cornwallis notched up 32.4% A*- Wheeler and Clare Woodward (AAB or better). Kitney (two A*s and a B), Mathew £48,000 for charity.” B grades, while at New Line Learn- Porter (an A*, two As and a B), Craig Principal Brendan Wall said: At Maplesden Noakes, students ing 76.9% of students achieved Barden (three A*s and two As), Al- “These results are exceptional for a achieved a 100% pass rate in both A- distinction* to merit in BTEC qualifi- isha Bell (three A*s and an A), Is- comprehensive school.” level and BTEC exams, with 45% in cations. abelle O’Nion (two A*s and a B), Maidstone Grammar School for the top A*-B grades and 70% A*-C. Students leading the celebrations Amy Reed (two A*s and a C), Lau- Girls witnessed an increase in stu- Head Jane Prideaux said the re- included deputy head girl Zoe Het- ren Apperley, Shanon Rupacha and dents achieving the top grades. sults reflected the dedication of staff herington and deputy head boy Ben Jack Cutler (two A*s and an A), Ellie Of the 174 students taking the and students to achieve the best, Hartnell. Zoe achieved a double dis- Harber-Russell and Katie Haylor exam, 30% got A*/A, with 66% A*-B, with particular praise to: Dan tinction* in business, a distinction* in (three A*s) and Natalie Hatfull and an overall pass rate of 90%. Williams (three As, two Bs); Kim travel, an A* in psychology, a B in (three A*s and an A).

22 Maidstone East September 2016 Maidstone East September 2016 23 News downsmail.co.uk Fruit farm thefts MORE than £6,000 worth of fruit has been stolen from Kent farms - Councils join to take including one report in the Maid- stone area. Officers have received reports that strawberries and cherries have been stolen from various farms in- on Royal Mail’s site cluding at Kenward Road, Yalding. It was reported that around THE Royal Mail site in the centre of dents will be proud of and which £2,000 worth of fruit was stolen be- Maidstone has been bought jointly will bring the jobs and homes that tween July 26 and 27. by Maidstone Borough Council the town needs.” There were three reported thefts and Kent County Council. Gary Cooke, KCC’s cabinet mem- near Tonge, on July 19, 22 and 26. Downs Mail understands the price ber for corporate and democratic It is reported that around £1,600 tag was somewhere between £4.5m Services and a local Maidstone worth of fruit was stolen. and £6m, according to a well-placed member said: “Kent County Coun- Officers are also investigating a source. cil is keen to see and help promote reported theft in Faversham, The former Maidstone mail centre schemes that benefit and promote where around £2,400 of soft fruit and delivery office site in Sandling Kent as a great place to live, to work was stolen in July. Road will be replaced by a “land- and to have fun. PC Marc Pennicott of the Rural Maidstone East railway station and Task Force, said: “These thefts are mark” mixed-use development in- the former Old Vic pub. "Maidstone is our county town all very similar so we believe they cluding retail space, homes, offices, “The masterplan is expected to and should reflect values and may be linked.” increased parking and an improved take three to five years to complete. lifestyles that we wish to promote Contact police on 01795 419119 interchange between buses, trains Consultants will be appointed to en- throughout Kent. The regeneration quoting reference XY/27859/16. and taxis. sure that the scheme is as attractive of the Maidstone East area provides The purchase of the 3.5-acre site, to as possible to private sector partners a unique opportunity to do exactly be completed in September, will and is welcomed and supported by that and in a way that also provides Friends need you “create a better place and it is also a residents and local businesses.” financial benefit to the county’s THE League of Friends at Maid- great business opportunity for both Cllr Fran Wilson, leader of Maid- ratepayers.” stone Hospital is in urgent need of councils”. stone Borough Council, said: “This “Our property team has been volunteers to staff its hospital shop, According to a joint statement: is a strategically important regener- working on this scheme with col- host the trolley service, man its “The two authorities will seek to ation project and by working in part- leagues from Maidstone ever since busy tea bar and sell books. If you produce a master plan for the site. It nership to purchase the site we can Royal Mail took the decision to mar- can spare a few hours a week, call is hoped that as this develops, they secure the best outcome for the ket the site and I am delighted to see Jacqui on 01622 224781. Money will be able to promote collaboration county town. all those efforts come to fruition.” raised by the Friends is used to buy with other landowners in the vicin- “The area has been an eyesore for A KCC spokesman refused to dis- medical equipment and make im- ity, which would form the basis for a a number of years. Working together close the price tag, which it claims is provements. broader scheme encompassing we can create something that resi- commercially sensitive.

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Wednesday Nights Only Tapas & Steak 2 course set menu for Multiples of 2 to share £14.95pp Tapas Starter 5 or 6 Tapas mixture of meat, fish & Vegi Example tapas menu: Chicken & choriso pasties, vegetable tortilla, Melon & parma ham, Spicy pork meat ball in tomato sauce, chorizo & calamari with Butter bean & tomato Steak Sharing Main 15oz 28 day aged Rump Steak Warm onion & pepper salsa, Garlic Mon, Tue Closed crushed potatoes, Farmhouse chips Wed: 12pm – 2.30 pm/ 6pm -11.00pm Mediterranean salad Thur: 12pm – 2.30 pm/ 6pm -11.00pm (Vegi Option half steak replaced Fri: 12pm – 2.30 pm/ 6pm till late with stuffed Aubergine) Sat: 12pm – 3 pm/ 6pm till late Sun: 12pm – 4pm Opening Times

24 Maidstone East September 2016 Dining Out PARTY NIGHTS AT GREAT DANES If you are looking for a superb lamb rolls in masala spice The spirit of Rio is coming to our hotel - so dress exotically, leave your inhibitions behind and enjoy an evening of fantastic meal, then look no further than the marinade and seasoned with food, foot-tapping music and dancing the night away! newly refurbished Frank’s coriander. For a main course try For more information and to book call Restaurant & Mussel Bar in West one of the special seafood sizzlers. T: 0844 815 9045 or email: [email protected] Malling with exposed beamed Takeaway customers can enjoy a mercuremaidstone.co.uk ceilings and a large open fireplace 10% discount during September. Mecure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel that accentuate the restaurant’s The restaurant and takeaway can Hollingbourne, Nr Maidstone, Kent ME17 1RE cosy feel. be found at The Rose pub on the A willing band of friendly, Ashford Road in Bearsted. attentive and knowledgeable staff If your thoughts are already members are on hand to explain turning towards Christmas then Frank’s undoubted specialism: get into the carnival spirit at mussels, with 25 different recipes Mercure Maidstone Great Danes covering everything from Thai Hotel. This year experience a through to Italian, Indian and Christmas party with a difference European. Whether you want your – bursting with all the colours, mussles marinated in something sounds and excitement of the mild or with a kick – Belgium carnival, a real treat for all the Congo comes with plenty of chilli – senses. The spirit of Rio is coming all tastes are catered for. – so dress exotically, leave your The Delhi Spice Indian inhibitions behind and enjoy an restaurant offers a great selection evening of fantastic food, foot- of traditional Indian food which is tapping music and dancing the freshly made using organic meat night away. Prices start from and chicken and the finest colour £27.95 per person including a red and preservative free ingredients. carpet arrival, themed event room, Check out the Sheek Kebab starter delicious food, novelties and music – delicious barbecued ground from the resident DJ. delhispice Frank’s Restaurant & Mussel Bar Fine dining Indian Restaurant serving traditional Indian food Steak Every Night! Menu selected from various regions from all over the Indian sub continent, with PROBABLY THE BEST ON specialist Indian spices, and 100% free YOUR DOORSTEP! from all artificial colourings and flavourings. Very popular traditional bar, serving fine wines, real ales and an extensive range of teas and coffees All New Exciting Lunch Menu now available EVERY NIGHT IS MUSSEL NIGHT! The Rose, 87 Ashford Road, Bearsted Monday − Mussel Specials Tel: 01622 734747 / 738200 Tuesday Mussel Night www.rose-inn.co.uk Wednesday Mussel Night Thursday − Mussel Specials Discount Discount Friday Mussel Night 20% on Monday 10% on Takeaway • Belgia n Beers • & Wednesday evenings.•• until the end of September.* On presentation of this advertisement. Valid until 30.09.2016 53-55 High Street, West Malling ME19 6QH Please mention this advert when making a booking T: 01732 843247 •• Dine in only - Minimum spend £25 * Excluding Bank Holidays. Terms & conditions apply www.franksrestaurantandmusselbar.com

Maidstone East September 2016 25 News | Hospitality downsmail.co.uk Vineyards spread across Kent THOUSANDS of rows of vines growing in Aylesford’s backyard have helped to put English wines on the world map. The 115-acre vineyard at the foot of Blue Bell Hill was acquired and planted by Tenterden-based Chapel Down in 2008 and is now the largest in the south east. Regarded as one of the finest production sites in the region, its success led the company to expand further, with a site nearby at Box- ley. Now a Chardonnay, named after the Kits Coty monument near the Aylesford estate, has been recog- nised as one of the UK’s best white wines, with the 2013 bottles selling for about £20 each. And after Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch raised the question in Par- liament as to why embassies around the world were serving French instead of UK wines, Chapel Down products are now re- pole group is by invitation only to be “very promising”. He said: year, is looking amazing. “It is hard puted to be included in the gov- and the winemaker will feature in “The vines are looking fantastic. to imagine the vines were only ernment’s catering lists. this elite commercial community, They were well watered in June planted a little over a year ago as “It caused such a fuss, but the alongside iconic brands such as and now the summer is really un- they are now tall and strong and al- Foreign Office and Defra took Alexander McQueen, Mulberry derway, they are flourishing. De- ready needing a trim.” note,” she said. and Rolls Royce. spite some cold and wet weather at Meanwhile, the company’s The company has also been se- After an excellent vintage in the start, it warmed up just in time newest vineyard – 40 acres at Sand- lected to join an elite group of 2015, Richard Lewis, Chapel to provide ideal conditions.” hurst, Kent - was also looking ex- Britain’s finest 170 luxury brands. Down’s head of viticulture, reck- He said the 83-acre vineyard at cellent and promising to be a very Membership of the exclusive Wal- ons this year’s Aylesford crop looks Boxley, which was planted last productive site. Future is looking rosé after couple’s first wine harvest A COUPLE are toasting the suc- our grapes were ready last Septem- cess of the first wine they have pro- ber/October and we started to duced five years after setting up make the wine, with help from their vineyard. Plumpton agricultural college in Henry Boorman and his girl- East Sussex. friend Christina McQuillan (pic- “But when we tasted the first bot- Funds raised tured) took on the 20-acre Redhill tles in January/February of this Farm Estates in Wateringbury, with year, well, that was pretty special. for brewery the aim of one day producing a “Henry set out five years ago to “strawberries and cream” rosé produce a ‘strawberries and cream’ CHAPEL Down and its Curious wine. rose wine and it was incredible Drinks beer and cider division This summer, the dream became when we realised we had made it. will start work on a new brewery reality and they have enjoyed sell- Some French rosé wines can be in Ashford after raising £1.16m outs of their stock at local pubs, in- very sweet, but this tastes like sum- from supporters. cluding the village’s North Pole mer. The successful crowd-funding hostelry and The George at Yald- “Our white wine has tones of initiative follows a 40% annual ing. melon and lemon and is similar to a increase in Curious beer and cider sales – driven by top end Priced at £15 a bottle, with a Bac- Sauvignon Blanc, but fruitier. restaurants, bars and hotels. chus white wine at £12.50, the “We didn’t think our wine would The new brewery – next to product is aimed at the mid-mar- be ready yet or that we would have Ashford International Station – ket, and not the higher end domi- made such a good quality wine.” will allow the business to nated by Kent vineyards Hush Henry is co-owner of a bar in consolidate its brewing and Heath and Chapel Down. Brixton and learned his trade as a It is available in micro-pubs and a publishing. sommelier at The Swan at West bottling operations, something “But it never felt like work and seen as crucial to the success of bar in London, as well as online. Malling. it’s lovely living in such a beautiful the UK drinks’ industry, Henry and Christina, both 31, are He worked as a design consult- according to its CEO Frazer enjoying the fruits of their labour. area with such views. ant in London to pay for converting Thompson–avocalsupporter “We would pick grapes and be “Of course, we had our ups and his family’s estate into a vineyard – of bespoke beers and wines and on the wine presses until 2am,” she downs along the way, but we are and now he and Christina are reap- a critic of “big brewery explained. pretty chuffed at what we have ing the rewards. blandness”. “I still work in London and achieved.  Visit the website at www.red- would be up at 6am for my job in “It was exhilarating when we felt hillestate.com

26 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Hospitality | News Micro-pub plan aims to get people talking PLANS to turn a West Malling years, says the idea is his response peanuts and to chat. It’s a passion house into a micro-pub have been to the “death of community bars of mine. These old-style commu- given their first public airing. and conversation”. He once drank nity pubs are experiencing re- David Cotterall was due to speak at the Lobster Pot, set to re-open as newed interest but are sadly of his long-held dream of turning a an Italian restaurant, with hotel lacking in West Malling, with house he owns behind The Crop rooms above, and The Farmhouse many of our pubs predominantly Shop hair salon in the High Street in the High Street, which has just restaurants or part of a chain.” into a “community pub” at a pub- been sold to Shepherd Neame. He hopes the meeting will have lic meeting at The Clout Institute Mr Cotterall said: “I want to answered residents’ questions and as we went to press. open a small, community pub ironed out any concerns. Boosting vital The 52-year-old father of three, where people come to have a cou- “I hope to dispel any myths or who has lived in West Malling 30 ple of quality pints, a bag of fears people might have about this local economy being a noisy anti-social venture in the heart of a residential area. It PRODUCED in Kent calculates will remain small, opening hours that if every household in the county will be limited and I expect it to spent just £5.50 a week on local food close at 9pm. What it will do is pro- and drink it would generate an extra vide a community pub for commu- £175m for the local economy. nity-minded people.” Jill Sargent (pictured), from Pro- The micro-pub would use the duced in Kent, loves the efforts being downstairs section of the house made to turn West Malling in to a and back yard and would be man- unique place to dine, drink and buy aged by Mr Cotterall’s friend Rick quality local products like English Mason. His initiative has also re- wine. ceived the backing of the Cam- She says: “Local shops and serv- paign for Real Ale (CAMRA). ices give our communities their Mr Cotterall said: “This will not identities. With the rise of multiples be a brewery, just a low-key place and coffee chains it is easy to lose to gather for a few drinks – like that identity. West Malling and the walking into someone’s front surrounding area has much to draw room.” on, from local vineyards to world- He says entertainment will be class research centres, and a thriving MP Helen - the pint puller limited to conversation and news- farmers’ market. “Being independent relies on dis- MAIDSTONE and the Weald MP Helen Grant, pictured above, pulled a pint papers, with a selection of real ales cerning customers appreciating the at the historic Stag pub in Maidstone to celebrate its reopening after a and a few wines on sale, along with snacks. There would be no TV ‘point of difference’ that traders £70,000 investment by multi-operator Chris Dyer and Enterprise Inns.. work so hard to provide, such as The High Street venue has been closed since February for a full makeover or music. Mr Cotterall said: “I hope the sourcing locally or making bespoke including an updated bar area, new toilets, a contemporary outdoor space products over buying in cheaper, and an upgraded kitchen. public’s response will be support- ive.” quicker options, and, of course, Entrepreneur Chris (34), who also runs Enterprise sites Bar Chocolate in choosing to offer ‘old-fashioned’ Maidstone and Command House in Chatham, said: “The pub was in need If it is, he hopes to submit plans as soon as possible for the house, customer service. These independ- of some attention and we’ve completely transformed it.” ent retailers are also supporting jobs Mrs Grant said: “I think people visiting Maidstone’s town centre will re- which has until recently been leased to domestic tenants and has in their communities. ally enjoy this superbly renovated historic pub. “Supporting a local business is “The ambience is great, the food and ales are delicious and the staff are been granted a licence for commer- cial use. also about getting a great product, lovely. I wish the Stag every success.”. whether that’s fresh from the farm- ers’ market or a pint of Kent-pro- duced ale in the pub. So love where Craft brewers add Wye flavour you live, and buy local!” KENT Brewery, near West Malling, A taste of sushi supplies dozens of pubs with craft beer. in Maidstone The business, set up in 2010 by A NEW sushi restaurant has Paul Herbert and Toby Simmonds, opened - a little later than is constantly developing new beers, planned. with additions including maple Love Sushi pledged to bring a syrup and elderberry. taste of Asia to the county town Paul believes the thirst for craft two years ago but is now serving beers is providing a growing menu customers at its new premises in of flavours. He is working with Wye Earl Street, Maidstone. Hops near Canterbury to develop The company originally an- bines bearing more interesting nounced it was going to move into flavours and feels this will lead to a the town in August 2014 but con- return to the number of hop gardens version work appeared to stall. for which Kent was once famous. But since it opened at the end of As a member of the Society of In- July, Love Sushi has been enjoy- dependent Brewers (SIBA), Kent ing brisk trade with customers Brewery is backing a drive to give choosing to sit at the conveyor in customers more information about the restaurant or be served at the where their craft brew comes from. table.

Maidstone East September 2016 27 News downsmail.co.uk Drivers on hard shoulder in ban

DRIVERS illegally using the mo- while using the hard shoulder were torway hard shoulder to dodge reported for summons. traffic jams are being targeted by A number of car registration police. numbers were also noted for fol- Officers patrolling Kent’s motor- low-up enquiries and prosecutions ways – including the M20 and M2 – where appropriate. have slapped court action on some Superintendent Mat Newton Police at the scene of the murder of Roy motorists this summer. said: “Driving on the hard shoulder Blackman, inset They could now face up to £2,500 is illegal and could easily lead to in fines and three penalty points on collisions with vehicles that have their licence or even a ban. stopped in an emergency situation Murder suspects freed Drivers on the M2 trying to skip or who have broken down. past a lorry fire on Friday, July 22, “It also puts lives at significant FOUR men suspected of involvement in the murder of widower are among those hit with action. risk. Roy Blackman have been released without charge. Police had closed the carriage- “Drivers who commit these of- It means only Mark Love (38), of Frittenden Road, , ways to protect emergency services fences will be reported for sum- will now face trial at Maidstone Crown Court on September 5. and other road users but some mo- mons and could receive a driving The four others, who had been arrested as part of the police in- torists used the hard shoulder, al- disqualification. vestigation and were due back on bail on July 28, are now free. most blocking an approaching fire “In addition to enforcement, A 52-year-old man arrested on suspicion of handling stolen engine. Kent Police also works closely with goods and assisting an offender had previously been released The following week, emergency partner agencies to encourage good without charge. services dealing with a crash on the driving behaviour.” The body of 73-year-old retired mechanic Mr Blackman, of Bid- M2 were obstructed by cars using  Driving on the hard shoulder denden, was discovered at his bungalow in March. the hard shoulder to avoid queues. carries a minimum of three Eight men were arrested during the police investigation. One One car delayed the arrival of a penalty points and a £100 fine, was shot dead by officers while on bail. recovery vehicle, further delaying but drivers face a discretionary Love denies the charge of murdering Roy Blackman and of a other drivers in the queue. disqualification and a maximum separate offence of aggravated burglary in Rye. Those drivers stopped by police fine of £2,500 by magistrates. Kent Police confirmed the four men released without charge in- cluded a 41-year-old and a 49-year-old, both of whom had ad- For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk dresses in Maidstone. ARTIFICIAL UPTO 20% GRASS SALE OFF

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28 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Childhood Cancer Taylor’s gaming wish comes true WHEN Microsoft agreed to give Taylor Scott access to their global world of game-making, it was a dream come true for the Invicta Girls’ Grammar School student. Taylor, from Penenden Heath, describes her date with Microsoft’s designers at Rare Studios in Leices- ter as simply “amazing”, with playing Sea of Thieves as one of the highlights. The 14-year-old, who was diag- nosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year, was given ac- cess to a secret project the Rare team is working on and advice on the best way to break into the in- dustry, after expressing an interest in a career in video game design. Make a Wish UK arranged the trip for mum Tanya, dad Jamie and their only daughter, who was di- agnosed just after her 13th birth- day on Christmas Day, after complaining of tiredness and pains in her bones. A Rare spokesman said: “It was our very great pleasure to host a visit for Taylor and her parents. and then laughed. It was a dream!” everything. It was a bit flash for us, Taylor at Microsoft with mum Tanya She had an incredible time meeting Taylor, who is undergoing but that’s what making a wish is all and dad Jamie and below, in hospital our development teams and get- chemotherapy treatment which about.” ting a unique behind-the-scenes she hopes will finish in April, also Asked what advice Taylor had glimpse into how challenging, but has to contend with vascular for another wish child fighting a wonderful, the game-making busi- necrosis – a complication resulting serious illness, she said: “Stay ness can be. from her steroid treatment that af- strong and believe it’s going to get “We were so pleased she enjoyed fects the blood supply to her hips, better. If you don’t stay strong then her time with us and we hope to knees and left shoulder. This it’s going to be a much harder jour- have inspired a future employee.” means she currently uses a wheel- ney.” Taylor’s mum Tanya said: “Tay- chair to get around. Taylor’s parents and friends now lor knows what she wants to do However, there was no need to hope that when her treatment ends after school for definite now. She is worry on the day of her trip be- and her mobility improves to take a big gamer and plays Xbox, so cause Make-A-Wish UK, sent a her to Japan to see the country’s art when Make-A-Wish UK asked her limousine to pick the family up and culture, which she loves. They what she wanted to do, she said from Gladstone Road. have already raised £8,000 in antic- Microsoft straight away. Tanya laughed: “Everyone was ipation. “Although she didn’t think it looking through the window as we Mum Tanya said: “Her art is her would be possible, when she found drove along, thinking we were su- therapy, and once she is mobile out she was going to Rare she cried perstars; there was a disco ball and again, we will whisk her away.” “Stay strong and believe it’s going to get beer. If you don’t stay strong then it’s going to be a much harder journey”

Laughter ‘the way forward’ TANYA has called on anyone ment is tough, small things like un- wishing to help to give to the small even walkways and people parking charities that she has found have on the pavements are actually the provided such support to the fam- things that upset and restrict their ily. movements the most. These include Teens Unite, Tanya said: “You even have peo- which is specifically for teenagers ple blatantly say if you are walking with cancer and took Taylor to see with a stick that you are pulling a Muse and sent her a bag of goodies fast one.” when she was feeling down. In spite of the pain, both she and Tanya said: “These lesser-known her daughter “joke their way to charities offer so much help. We all health and happiness” with a posi- know of someone with cancer, but tive attitude. Tanya said: “We stay when it hits you personally, you fi- positive and joke all the time and nally understand what it means.” Taylor is made of very strong stuff. Taylor enjoys game with dad Jamie in hospital She says that while Taylor’s treat- It’s the only way forward.” September is national Childhood Cancer Awareness month

Maidstone East September 2016 29 News | Sponsored parish council downsmail.co.uk Boxley Parish Mail CHAIRMAN: Bob Hinder CLERK: Pauline Bowdery ASST CLERK: Melanie Fooks Parish Office, Beechen Hall, Wildfell Close, , ME5 9RU

Tel: 01634 861237 email: [email protected] Website: www.boxleyparishcouncil.org.uk Contact details for parish councillors can be obtained from the parish office, the Useful Contact Details leaflet or the website Hall extension put on hold Vandals rip up safety AFTER lengthy consideration, mem- bers of the finance and general pur- poses committee decided not to release funds to extend the small surface at play area meeting room at Beechen Hall. Having taken into consideration THE safety surface at chard is still establishing itself but the cost, the current uncertain situa- Diamond Jubilee Orchard’s chil- the playground, with new equip- tion caused by Brexit and whether dren’s play area has been van- ment chosen by the local children, there was a proven need for such a dalised, with large strips of the is extremely well used. room, members agreed to progress edging surface around the play Just over 3,000 people attended with refurbishing the toilets, replac- equipment being pulled out. the opening with children from St ing front doors and improving the The damage was discovered by a John’s School singing a specially front entrance layout. member of staff on August 19 and composed song which delighted Cllr Paul Dengate was thanked for the police and parish council the royal couple. producing the information. would be grateful for any informa- Chairman of the estates commit- It was acknowledged that, whilst tion to try to narrow down when tee, Cllr Vic Davies said: “As the or- deciding not to go ahead with the the damage was done and if possi- chard is a bit tucked away it is project, the information supplied ble by whom. probable that the vandal or vandals had been invaluable to allow an in- Cllr Bob Hinder, chairman of the are local, which is an unhappy formed decision to be taken. parish council said: “This is a pop- thought”. The park had to be The hall, which was opened in ular and well-loved play area and orchard and took on responsibility closed due to safety concerns 1994, is extensively used by commu- this damage and the mindless dam- of the play area as its Diamond Ju- whilst repairs were arranged. nity groups and is available for hire age done to the trees at the orchard bilee project to celebrate the Anyone with information is for parties, weddings etc. Work in is an insult to all the people of Queen’s 60th year on the throne. asked to either contact the parish the hall has included replacing ceil- Weavering and Grove Green.” Opened by the Earl and Countess office or Kent Police quoting crime ing lights. Car park lights will be in- Boxley Parish Council created the of Wessex on May 31, 2012, the or- reference YY-18262-16. stalled shortly. The parish office is also at Beechen Hall and leaflets on walks are available from the office. Burial rights THE estates committee has reviewed the rules and regulations that cover Local plan its burial ground located at the rear THE Maidstone Borough Local Plan of St Mary and All Saint's Church in which will identify the policy re- Boxley village. garding development in the bor- Residents of the civil parish and in ough for the next 20 years is reaching special circumstances, residents of its public inquiry stage. the ecclesiastical parish can be The parish council has employed buried there. a planning consultant to help it pres- The committee clarified the eligi- ent its case as members have concern bility criteria and agreed the clerk over the protection of the country- coudl decide whether a Boxley resi- side and the way that supporting in- dent who had lived in the civil frastructure is not in place before parish for over 10 years but had development begins. Allotment holder Richard Dean receives the cup from Ann Spain lived outside the boundary for no The parish council is also con- more than five years due to ill health tributing to the cost of the Maidstone for example, will be considered. branch of the Kent Association of Allotment cup is presented Consideration will also be given to Local Councils which is employing A BARBECUE was held at Dove Hill Allotments on Sunday, August 14 and allow burial of a non resident who a planning consultant to argue that the Ann Spain MBC Challenge Cup was awarded for the first time. had attended the church for 10 years parts of the submitted local plan are The cup was donated by Ann Spain, a previously long-serving parish but had ceased, for example due to not correctly produced. councillor and a supporter for the development of the allotments. It will ill health, in the last five years. now be awarded annually, as well as rosettes for first, second and third Future projects place. Improved play THE parish council is now starting The Mayor and Mayoress of Maidstone, Derek and Mary Butler along LORDS Wood children are enjoying to consider what projects to under- with Mrs Spain had the difficult task of judging the allotments, taking into an improved play area. Maidstone take in the next financial year. account design, attractiveness, innovative use of alternative/recyclable Council has upgraded what was a Councillors are being asked to materials and overall impression. They awarded the cup to Richard Dean. small out-of-date play area at Tim- supply details to the parish office Second place was awarded to Paul Dengate and third to Will Wrapson. ber Tops into a multi-aged facility. and residents are welcome to send in Pam and Keith and Michael Price were highly commended. Whilst the original opening date of their thoughts as well. All projects Two allotment (quarter) plots are available for hire to residents of the just before the summer holidays was will be submitted to the parish coun- civic parish of Boxley. At a cost of £15 per year this is a cheap way to sup- missed, local children waited pa- cil or one of its committees and eval- ply all the family with fresh vegetables and fruit. For details go to the tiently to be allowed access and the uated before a decision is made parish council website or contact the parish office. facilities are being well used.

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Maidstone East September 2016 31 News downsmail.co.uk Ramblin’ Man ‘a quieter affair’ THE recent Ramblin’ Man Fair festival was not as loud as the previous event last year, Bearsted Parish Council decided – although a number of complaints had been received. Reporting to the parish members, councillor Mike Revell had re- borough councillor Val Springett ceived complaints from local peo- said that complaints had been re- ple. ceived about the volume generated Cllr Springett said all complaints by the event. had been passed on to the council. The festival in Mote Park – the Cllr Pat Marshall said: “It was venue provided by Maidstone Bor- much better than last year. There ough Council – starred Black Stone are two events like this a year, for Cherry and Whitesnake. goodness sake. Can’t we turn a Downs Mail readers said they blind eye? If it’s saving money on could hear the music from as far our council tax, I’m all for it.” away as and Harriet- Her comments prompted jokes sham, while others heard it on the about her being a fan of Whites- Pilgrims Way. nake. Cllr Springett said that while Whitesnake were a hit with visitors to the Ramblin’ Man Festival Cllr Paul Young agreed the noise Ramblin’ Man “provided a lot of thing about the bass. It is a very dif- Redman said there were frustra- levels were down on last year, noise interference” and complaints ficult balance in allowing some tions that people being disturbed while Cllr Helena Goodwin said had been received, efforts had been events. I certainly wouldn’t want by the concert could not get there had been “adequate” notice made to reduce disturbance. them having events every week.” through to the complaints line. before the festival was staged at the She said: “They have done some- Parish council chairman Fiona The meeting heard how local end of July. Field repair Bales ahead for council seats BEARSTED Parish Council is to spend £1,120 fixing a dip at the en- TWO seats up for grabs at next didate four years ago would have trance to Elizabeth Harvey Field, year’s Kent County Council elec- made election difficult. where the firework display is held, tions have sparked an internal bat- Cllr Cooke would worry a big to prevent vehicles getting stuck in tle within the Conservative Party. Ukip vote might split the Tory vote, the mud when it is wet. Five candidates are vying for the but equally it could affect the sec- Three quotes have been obtained, Maidstone rural east, held by Jenny ond placed Labour Party in blue- with a bid of £1,120 plus VAT being Whittle, of Bearsted, when she collar areas of Maidstone. accepted by the full council. steps down from Kent County If Cllr Cooke fails to be selected Council. as his party’s candidate, he has Quiz night Four are local while the other is Cllrs Gary Cooke and Jenny Whittle promised to stand as an independ- MAIDSTONE Macmillan Fund from Swale. At the 2013 election, she topped ent. Raising Group hosts a quiz night at Headcorn borough councillors at the poll with 69% cent of the vote, He told the Downs Mail: “People Grove Green community hall at Maidstone town hall Shellina Pren- making her seat especially attrac- have asked me if I don’t get se- 7pm on Saturday, September 17. dergast and Martin Round have tive to prospective candidates. lected whether I would stand as an Tickets are £6 per person for teams thrown their hats in to the ring, as Labour came second with 14%. independent and I have said I prob- of up to eight – bring your own have Cheryl Taylor-Maggio of Lan- Cllr Prendergast is considered to ably would do that.” gley Parish Council and Anne be a front-runner for the seat. Cllr Cooke is regarded as a hard- drinks and nibbles. To book, call Southern of Stockbury parish coun- In Maidstone south east, Gary working and diligent member who Helene Poursain on 07764503484 or cil. The Swale contender is local Cooke has a majority of less than has spoken up regularly against the e-mail hpour- councillor Nicholas Hampshire. 300, but faces competition for his borough council’s house building [email protected] The successful candidate will be re-selection as candidate from at programme and the need for a by- chosen by local, paid-up members least two others. pass to alleviate traffic issues in the Play scheme of the party. Leeds/Langley areas. He faces an even bigger threat if THE summer play scheme in Mrs Whittle – who is highly The issues of housing, traffic and Ukip stands a candidate – widely Bearsted was judged a “huge suc- thought-of, well-liked and hard- schools are bound to be among the believed to be borough councillor cess” with positive feedback. working – has decided to step aside Eddie Powell – in 2017. Cllr Cooke major topics in both KCC divisions for personal reasons. at next May’s polls. The £6,000 wage bill was consid- has acknowledged that a Ukip can- ered good value set against im- proved attendances and higher Confusion over farmers’ market rules revenues. THE ongoing confusion between require a licence. concerned there might be borough- Police choir Bearsted Parish Council and Maid- KALC advises many of the wide implications. THE Kent Police Choir performs at stone Borough Council about the parish authorities in the county. She said: “It would be worth rais- All Saints’ Church, , at cost of a licence to stage the farm- Bearsted disputed the £900 ing this with KALC just to see what 7.30pm on Saturday, September 10. ers’ market on the green could be charge to hold the monthly event, is going on borough-wide.” Tickets, at £12.50, include a light referred to another body. despite the fact that the parish Cllr John Hughes said clarity was buffet supper. They are available Borough councillor Val Springett council owns the village green. required. from Molly Poulter on 01622 842988 has suggested the parish gets in MBC can use its discretion to re- MBC’s position is that under the or Rhian Banham on 01622 844010. touch with Kent Association of duce this by about two thirds. relevant Local Government Act Local Councils (KALC), amid fears Cllr Springett claimed MBC had 1982, consent is required for trad- that MBC’s interpretation of the “got itself in a pickle” over the dif- ing in any setting in the borough, Rogue trader law could mean every event might ferent types of licences and was including public areas. REPORTS of a rogue trader in Bramley Crescent, Bearsted, were reported to trading standards offi- Read all editions of the Downs Mail at www.downsmail.co.uk cers and police. The offender tried to charge £100 to clean a driveway.

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Maidstone East September 2016 33 downsmail.co.uk Stewart Brown with partner Ted Homewood. Doug leaves his wife, four children – Obituaries Ted said: “Apart from our life locally and daughter Lesley died in 2011 – 10 grandchil- STEWART Brown (78) lived in the Square all the things we did, Doreen’s big passion dren and three great-grandchildren. Hill area of Maidstone for 32 years and was travelling. She had been to many places before that in Yeoman Way, Bearsted. and we had cruised and flown all over the Born and raised in Staplehurst, Stewart world; as far away as Australia and to exotic Julie May Hughes worked for Mid-Kent Water and was places including Bali, Hawaii, the Galapagos THE death has been announced of Julie May involved for a long time with local Scouting. Islands and the Far East. Amongst her He retired from Mid-Kent Water when Hughes (57) who worked locally in Marks favourite trips was a visit to Bora Bora. and Spencer and, more recently, as landlady the organisation changed and South East “Doreen very much believed life was for Water became the company covering the of The Windmill pub in Burham. living and she really enjoyed a lot of what Julie leaves her partner Mike, sons Simon area. she did.” Stewart was married to Margaret for 49 and Ben, her brother Chris, her sister Lesley Doreen leaves her partner and her sister and other members of her extended family. years and the couple would have celebrated Freda and brother Tony. their golden wedding in September. They A service celebrating her life was held at raised sons David and Jonathan. Charing Crematorium on August 18. Margaret said: “Stewart was very Susie Hoare supportive of me and our sons in the local Scouting movement and helped in every HOLLINGBOURNE’S Susan “Susie” Hoare, Ian Hodgson who lived in Hadley Gardens, was known way he could. At the two services we held, TRIBUTES have been paid to a father-of-two more than 200 people turned up. for her involvement in village life. She worshipped regularly at All Saints' Ian Hodgson, who died when he lost control “Just over 19 years ago, Stewart received a of his motorbike on the A228 between Pad- Pride of Maidstone Award from Cllr Morel Parish Church and was the sister of the Reverend Robin Gill; a local clergyman who dock Wood and East Peckham. D'Souza for his services to Scouting.” Son Chris posted a Stewart leaves his wife, sons, daughter-in- is currently a member of the team working in the Leeds and Hollingbourne Benefice photograph of a law Erika and grandchildren Joseph and Ducati motorbike on Anneka. and who was at one point the Priest in Charge. Facebook, in tribute to Susie’s funeral took place at Saint his father. Amongst Jackie Atkinson Margaret’s Church, Hucking. A church bar- those paying tribute becue which had been scheduled for the was Donna Williams, JACQUELINE “Jackie” Atkinson (80) same day was cancelled as a mark of who posted: “My lived with husband David in for 52 respect. most sincere condo- years. lences to the whole Born Jacqueline Collins and raised in family, God bless x” Marden, Jackie worked for Atcost in Douglas Grist Ian leaves his wife Tracy and sons Chris Paddock Wood as a and Stephen. receptionist and DOUGLAS “Doug” Grist (86) lived the final telephonist for a years of his life in Siingbourne but had number of years. She lived in the Maidstone and Medway areas David Sladden since he was a small boy. met David through DAVID William Charles Sladden (58) lived his brother, who also Born in Bexhill to parents from Rainham in Kent, he returned in Bearsted for around 20 years and lived worked at Atcost, and locally throughout his life. the couple raised locally and remained in the area apart from Born in Suon Valence and raised in children Carole and Hollingbourne, David Penny. Jackie did a spell on national service with the RAF aended Swadelands temping work as the School and began children grew up. in Norfolk. Doug’s local homes work with his father- David said: “Jackie was a happy and hard- in-law as a mechanic. working person, a dedicated mother and included , Langley, Suon Va- His passion for cars someone who loved her family. We enjoyed remained with him music and went to all kinds of lence, and Bearsted. He was known lo- throughout his life. performances, including classical music and Married for 35 popular stars like James Last and Guy cally from his years running the family busi- ness E H Grist and Sons, a wholesale fruit years to Julie, David Mitchell. was father to Katie “Jackie used to communicate with Roy and vegetable business based in Hedley Street near Maidstone Prison. Doug and his and Grace. Katie said: “Our father’s passion Hudd and he would make a point of telling for cars was a massive part of his life and he us when he was performing in our area.” brother took the business over from their fa- ther. When it closed Doug worked for Tre- owned a number of vintage and classic cars; Jackie leaves her husband, daughters, he loved aending and taking us to car grandchildren Kate and Adam and great- bor Sharps in Maidstone. Doug was married twice. He and first wife shows. grandchildren Oakley, Laken, Jax and “Our father was outgoing, really sociable Primrose. June had children Lesley, Judith and Martin and with second wife Dee he had children and the kind of person who is loved by Tracy and Stuart. Judith said: “My father everyone.” Doreen Frost loved the outdoors and could take pleasure David leaves his wife, daughters, grand- in a lot of life’s simple things. son Jack and sisters Rosemary and Patricia. DOREEN Frost (64) lived the final 20 years “When he retired he bought land near Ul- of her life in and had lived in the combe and grew plum trees and Christmas local area all her life. trees, as well as keeping sheep and chickens The Stone Shop Born Doreen Funnel, in Charing, she and puing polytunnels on the land to grow Memorials. moved to Yalding as a very young girl and Any natural stone supplied, things. lettered and installed anywhere. later lived in Nelestead. “He sold his produce at market in Ashford Inscriptions added to existing memorials Doreen’s working life included time spent and kept this business going for 15 years. He working in a shoe shop in Maidstone and also toured the south east of England and Renovations and memorial about 30 years working for ICI in Yalding, Wales in a camper van with my stepmother. cleaning where she started off in the production He even took her to the place in Wales The Stone Shop department before moving on to office work where he was evacuated as a boy. Station Hill, , Kent. for the company. “In later years they had a permanent cara- Doreen was married for about six years van at a site in Dorset and spent their sum- 01622 726633 earlier in her life but spent over 20 years mers there.”

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

34 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Comment Big tick for grammar schools MAIDSTONE (with four) and Kent are the game to a wider and younger audience. power bases of Britain’s few grammar Many counties face financial problems and schools, and many supporters will be de- MailMarks they are promised stakeholder income. lighted Government is likely to back remov- But most – and their members and sup- ing the nationwide ban on new grammars. DENNIS FOWLE President porters – believe this is an unacceptable gam- I appreciate powerful pros and cons, but my [email protected] ble and a massive threat to the first-class game experiences of having my own life trans- in Britain. formed more than 60 years ago at Borden Although these ECB executives see the cur- Grammar School, Sittingbourne, convince me Protect cricket rently lucrative county 20/20 competition con- what is best for Britain. THE game of cricket is still deeply em- tinuing, the counties could be robbed of star Money was so tight in my childhood home bedded in the British psyche and I am horri- players (both domestic and overseas). Who that new school shoes were a real challenge fied by latest English Cricket Board (ECB) would watch effectively Kent 2nds v Essex and it was down to the personal support and proposals which have potential to be very se- 2nds? dedication of my parents that I was able to rise riously damaging to Test and county games The number of county championship games from a very rough, tough junior school. and the very existence of our county clubs, in- is again being reduced, from 16 to 14 a season I did not realise then that this was true so- cluding Kent. – an unacceptable loss to county members and cial mobility and Government must ensure The ECB chairman Colin Graves and chief a barrier to playing these matches at out- this in any new structure. executive Tom Harrison face stiff opposition grounds around the counties, such as Tun- I still remain close to that school and am from the majority of county clubs to a plan to bridge Wells and Maidstone. proud how many students have become na- revolutionise the key money-spinning 20/20 The counties and the county championship tional and regional leaders so vital to the suc- overs format. are the breeding ground for our England Test cess of our country and society. It would be played on a mainly a big city players – and success of the national team is At a time when quality of our education sys- format (eg – London v Birmingham – and still a high public priority. tem falls further down international league ta- who in Kent will be loyal to that?), mixing the The 50/50 over games, with the end-of- bles, grammar schools are the increasing aim top players from our counties with the biggest season Lord’s final, also have a strong follow- of many parents. We must meet demand. names from abroad, producing a lengthy Big ing. Kent have done well this season. Note I think the Government must lift the ban as Bash competition at the height of summer. interest in the quarter final against Yorkshire. soon as possible as part of a programme to im- It is a format successful in hotter evening I fear such a gamble will be the graveyard prove education standards in all schools so climes of India and Australia and brings in of county cricket and summer traditions Britain rises in international tables. substantial TV income. One aim is to spread which bring so much pleasure to many.

Ramblin’ Man success On the first occasion, this was in a report modern prisons are sophisticated these days, of a parish council meeting, and secondly in with the use of drones a favourite. WE HAVE been overwhelmed by the an uncalled-for and ill-informed comment To be honest, with their colour TVs and positive feedback we have received from our on your leers page. mod cons to keep them occupied, it is a staging of the Ramblin’ Man Fair festival at It is, of course, always a mistake to rush wonder Her Majesty’s guests require further Mote Park, Maidstone. into print when in posession of only half the stimulation. We had more than 22,000 people on site story – a mistake unfortunately made by Mr Perhaps if prison regimes were harsher – over the weekend. There was a fantastic Roy F. Wilsher, of Blenheim Close. Bearsted, ie no privileges – and sentences adhered to atmosphere with no trouble. Mote Park is a in his leer on the subject. in full, there might be a deterrent factor. wonderful location and we are very happy It was, in fact, the eyesore of those At present, there is none. Modern prisons to be able to put money back into the local unswept guers fronting the shops that first are holiday camps, often run by profit- community via the council. took me to a parish council meeting. driven companies who cut corners to make a We had customers from all over Europe My subsequent words of praise were beer boom line. and the UK and we think the festival acts as directed at the harmony existing between There is nothing wrong with running a great showcase for Maidstone and Kent. councillors in recent months, and equally businesses well, but there is something We are aware of 35 complaints made to directed at Cllr Ash, the longest serving wrong with businesses running prisons. the council relating to noise levels. Whilst we member of the council, who took it upon B McGann, via email were well within agreed noise levels we take himself to take a shovel and broom to the the concerns of any residents very seriously. said guers on Sunday morning. We will be continuing to work with the Sadly the area is again looking sad, less School site unsuitable council to minimise any disruption to than a month after this 83-year-old also I READ your report that a new school may residents whilst working very hard to make weeded and swept it, completely filling a be built in Eclipse Retail and Business Park this event a continued highlight of the black bag in the process. to serve Bearsted. Maidstone calendar in the coming years. So now, how about you, Mr Wilsher? Are Such a location is some 2.5km from that village Early bird tickets for 2017 are on sale now! you as good with a shovel and broom as and in a very busy area of Maidstone poorly Chris Ingham, Spirit of Rock owner and with a pen? Or should we all sit and wait served by any transport except the private car. It Creative Director of Ramblin Man until “they” do something? can therefore be expected that a large amount of Terence M Turner, Madginford Road, peak hour traffic will be imported into the area. Bearsted This is unwanted by local people and cannot Less talk, more action be considered convenient for the people of IT HAS become known to me that my name Bearsted. has twice been mentioned in your Toughen up on inmates By all means provide new schools but publication in connection with the I READ with interest your article about the please make sure they are sensibly located to disgraceful appearance of the parade of prevalence of drugs in Maidstone Prison. serve the people they cater for. shops on Madginford estate. The means of smuggling illicit goods into John Payne, Ardenlee Drive, Maidstone Contact our team ... Got something to say? Simon Finlay Diane Nicholls Dawn Kingsford Write to The Editor, 2 Forge House, Editor Assistant editor Journalist Bearsted Green Business Park, Maidstone ME14 4DT or email simon.fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] simon.fi[email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233

Maidstone East September 2016 35 Classifieds downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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The complete Bathroom Maintenance Company NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Welcome to Supply • Install • Repair Here at Rapid Mix Kent, we are proud to be a leading provider Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services of readymix concrete for customers in the Kent, Ashford, Call Gary 07738 902116 • 01622 736266 Maidstone and Canterbury areas. ALL WORK GUARANTEED Using a combination of expertise, state-of-the-art equipment and a commitment to quality, we can provide a first class service for all our customers, regardless of the size of the project. We accept payment by Whether you need concrete for flooring or screeding, or for domestic or commercial use, we have the skills, equipment and service necessary to provide you with everything you need to help your project go Builders as smoothly as possible. If you would like to know more SHAUN ELLEN about what it is that we do, please BRICKWORK SPECIALIST & GENERAL BUILDER feel free to get in touch with us • EXTENSIONS • PORCHES • GARDEN WALLS • PATIOS • RE-POINTING today and our team will be more • CHIMNEY REPAIRS • CONSERVATORY BASES • STONE WALLS than happy to help you. • CONCRETING • DRAINAGE • BLOCK PAVING • ROOFING Call us today for a free no •RESTORATION WORK • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE obligation quote: CITY & GUILDS OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE 0800 8595 375 PHONE SHAUN: 01622 679618 • MOB: 07889 903590 FOR A RELIABLE & FRIENDLY SERVICE www.rapidmixkent.co.uk

36 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Classified Builders continued Chimney Maintenance Cleaning Services "WE CLEAN H & G Chimney Services OVENS!" Using van mounted cleaning tanks, Chimney sweeping service Rayner Brown Construction Ltd your oven hob and extractor is Long established cleaned to showroom shine without We undertake all types of building work including: ICS registered • All types of flu smell, mess or fuss. 1000's of Kitchens, bathrooms, driveways, landscaping, renovations & extensions All pots-cowls supplied & fitted delighted local customers. Complete re-builds FREE advice and quotations Re-pointing Oven cleaning from just £49 Tel: 01622 739960 or 07966 386428 (Mark Brown) Guttering, roof & valley repairs Please call James on e-mail: [email protected] 01622 739439 07860 318166 01622 616168 [email protected] www.ovenwizards.com

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Maidstone East September 2016 37 Classified downsmail.co.uk Drives Fencing continued Garden Services con.

Complete Fencing LOCAL HANDYMAN Landway Surfacing All Repairs and New Fencing PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Driveways, Block Paving, Tarmac & Shingle, Free Estimates & GARDEN SERVICES Council Approved Drop Kerbs, Resin bonded Drives Call Tony On Gutter cleaning & maintenance, Brickwork, All work fully insured and guaranteed 01622 880218 07796 772020 Roofing & small landscaping undertaken, For free advice and quotation call:- Exterior painting, Turfing & hedges trimmed. Patios, paving & garden brickwork. Tel/Fax - 01622 734817 I.WALLOND FENCING All the odd jobs Mobile - 07795 471 196 or 07799 867 524 ALL TYPES – REPAIR/RENEW no-one else wants to do Email - [email protected] Est. 25 YEARS Website - www.landwaysurfacing.co.uk FREE ESTIMATES 07900 300994 100 The Landway, Bearsted, KENT ME14 4LB 01580 890649 07931 368710 0800 474 8750 www.IWallondfencingcontractors.co.uk Fence me in & alot more All types of Fencing & Gates ARBOUR •Driveways •Tar & Grit •Tarmacadam Installed & Repairs TREE SURGERY All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, ‘Trust your local experts’ •Footpaths •Block Paving•Car Parks Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. All Aspects of Tree Work Council Approved Drop Kerbs Free Estimates Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, Hedge Cutting etc. Felling • Pruning WE BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTES Call Colin on 07521 Hedge Cutting 377306 or 01622 853978 Stump Grinding 01622 743037 Fully Insured and Qualified 07729 862518 / 07771 523799 Free No Obligation Written Quotation www.rssurfacing.com 01622 759119 07771 970570 www.arbourtreesurgery.co.uk

Electricians BRANCHING OUT S COPPER ADPink Electrical TREE SERVICE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION All aspects of tree cutting, Re-shaping, Maintenance and Servicing Est 1993 All types of domestic electrical work Crown reduction. Felling of dangerous General repairs, maintenance and restoration. undertaken,full rewires to single or dying trees. All hedges and shrubs, ALL WORK CARRIED OUT BY QUALIFIED www.wrightsfencing.co.uk CITY & GUILDS ELECTRICIAN sockets,security lighting,fuse box topped and shaped Free quotation services — No call out fees changes,testing and inspections for Site clearance, prompt services For friendly advice call Simon Copper on landlords certificates No1 Locally Since 1996 FREE ESTIMATES 07564 209437 01622 765761 (Evenings) NICEIC Domestic Installer 01622 880218 part P registered fully insured. 07796 772020 [email protected] FENCING 07761559744/01622 884774 LANDSCAPING TOTAL ELECTRICAL SERVICES Garden Maintenance BEARSTED • MAIDSTONE & Contractors MAIDSTONE Tel. 07763 613451 TREE SERVICES For all your domestic electrical requirements. Electric Rewired Professional Tree Services •Full rewires The new 17th Edition wiring regs are applied •New fuse boards We are Part P Certificated •Sockets, Lighting For all your Electrical needs •NICEIC Part P registered From extra sockets to house rewiring • Decking •Competitive rates (no vat) Replace old light fittings with new fittings • Patios •For free quotes and advice call Neil Call Alf for your free quote • Clearance Ring 07831 247843 or 01622 738680 • Gates 0800 567 7175 www.electricrewired.co.uk. • Pergolas [email protected] [email protected] • Concrete bases • Retaining walls www.maidstonetreeservices.co.uk • All types of fencing ADVENT undertaken ELECTRICAL SERVICES (Kent) LTD Fencing Tel: 01622 631941 EPIC For all your electrical 07876 540250 requirements from an extra LANDSCAPES socket to a full rewire. For a friendly local service call Jon Hughes Garden Services NO JOB TOO 01622 630585 David Matthews BIG OR SMALL Mobile:0771 2653355 INVICTA 56 Ware Street Fencing • Fencing • Treework • Turfing Bearsted • Free estimates & friendly advice GREEN LAWNS • Decking• Levelling Ground Qualified to • All types of fencing at • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf 17th edition competitive prices Artificial Grass • Fencing supplied and erected • Water Features • Patios Part P • You talk directly to David at all Specialists Reg’d stages for your fencing • Clearance • Driveways • Go on, give him a call on We Supply and install For a free site survey call: Phone: 01622 755342 Artificial Grass Please call for a free site 01622 527106 Mobile: 07749 202140 survey – 07493 140330 07788 532926

38 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Classified Garden Services continued Logs continued Summer Special Seasoned apple logs bulk bags £39.99 Seasoned mixed hard wood £70 a load Seasoned wood for wood burners £60 a load

We can price Free Delivery • Free Stacking LOW COST match any quote. We are Mobile: 07854 615687 Office: 01622 813750 GARDEN cheaper than & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE the rest Painting & Decorating Hedge Trimming, Garden Maintenance, Landscaping, Turfing, Garden Shed Repairs, Fencing, Garden Clearance LEE Hughes All Aspects Of Treework Undertaken Decorator All Other Aspects Of Property Maintenance Undertaken D. STEWART PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES FOR A FREE ESTIMATE OR ADVICE CALL 07415 20 4877 All decorating Interior & Exterior Work interior & exterior Undertaken OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE APPROVED GARDENS FREE ESTIMATES City & Guild Qualified • Regular Maintenance & Jungle Clearances. Bearsted 730541 Tel: 01622 759040 • Mowing Strimming Hedge Trimming. Re-Shape, Reductions & Pruning & Fencing. • Tree Works, Re Turfing & Weed Control. • Fully Insured, Residential & Commercial. Painting & Decorating Award winning Contractor for “Kent Garden Of The Year 2010” LADY INTERIOR Services • Interior & exterior painting 01622 726736 07436 117576 DECORATOR • Wall papering • Plastering www.approvedgardens.webeden.co.uk NO JOB TOO SMALL • Fully insured Tree FREE ESTIMATES • Friendly & reliable service Surgery Call Lynda Daniel Call Nick for a Stump free quotation TREE CARE Grinding on 07733 354617 07921 193298 Contact Tom Hedge 01622 206702 T: 01622 206431 Cutting [email protected] M: 07812 921748 Pruning E:[email protected] CRB checked Fencing Professional

Interior Decorator • Quality Decorating at a Not just a decorator, fair & competitive price but one with over • Dulux approved over LANDSCAPE SERVICES 40 years experience 30 years experience • Fully insured now semi retired, so can offer a cheaper price Tel: 01622 737225 TreeTree Care Mobile: 07816 149502 01622 687200 www.sr-interiors.com Hedge cutting email: [email protected] WeedWeed Killing TurfingTurfing HALLFORD DECORATING FencingFencing Painting & Decorating Services FullyFully insured, ProfessionalProfesseessionalional serviceservice Call for free estimate • Plastering • Carpentry • Property Maintenance Tel:TTeel: 0794407944 5510742 1 0 774 42 E-maiE-mail: [email protected]@gmail.com • Ceramic Tiling, Floor Tiling, Laminate Flooring Tel:TTeel: 0162201622 43259432597 7 Lee GoodyerGoodyer Call Martin Hallford on 01622 685732 or 07956 234273 Logs Your friendly local service - Bearsted @ Spindlebush Farm, MARSHALLS Yalding Hill, ME18 6AL Rathbone Decorating Services Seasoned logs suitable for open fires & wood stoves Painting & Decorating No job too small Bulk bags from £50 Interior & Exterior with special rates Bags of logs or kindling 3 for £10 Works Undertaken for pensioners Smokeless coal & house coal • Free Estimates • Friendly Personal Services Calor Gas Bottles available Loose loads: £100 delivered or £125 • Domestic and Commercial • Qualified Tradesman 01622 812005 07970 647334 Tel 01622 721491 or Mobile: 07753 487796

Maidstone East September 2016 39 CLassified downsmail.co.uk Painting & Decorating Plastering Plumbing & Heating continued continued D K PLASTERING MALCOLM ROBERTS All plastering work carried out Over 25 years’ experience of maintaining people’s homes. • Excellent Work • Excellent Prices • G&I Streeter FREE Quotes A friendly, reliable service. Est. - 1971 Email: [email protected] Painting & decorating, Local family plumbers Wall Papering, Tiling Call David 01622 728494 and all aspects of DIY. Mobile: 07974 891795 Call Ian CALL MALCOLM ON 01634 308067 07860 293732 Mob: 07788 142576 MID KENT FOR A FREE QUOTATION PLASTERING All plumbing and Heating Work 01622 631915 0781 392 7162 / 0791 994 6328 Undertaken Plastering, Rendering & Screeding New Ceilings & Repairs All Work Guaranteed Coving & Stud Walls Gas Safe Approved Engineer •Plastering •Painting & Decorating Tyrolean & monocouche rendering •Laminate Flooring•Home Improvements FULLY INSURED Professional, FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE Commercial & Domestic 07804 927680 www.midkentplastering.co.uk Reliable Service Plumbing & Heating 01622 737803 NO CALL OUT CHARGE Email: [email protected] Chris Bourne Plumbing Services & FREE QUOTES making water work Heating Wall & Floor For all your Plumbing Tiling PLUMBING plumbing needs Roofing Services Complete 25yrs experience Bathrooms New Taps • Toilet & Cistern Repairs Bath & Shower Installation 01622 747272 / Leaks & Fault Finding • General Repairs 07885 950959 Call Gary Larkrise, Green Lane, HANDYMAN . 07738 902116 / 01622 736266 COMPLETE ROOFING SERVICE No job too big or too small. • Full Roof Installation Painting & decorating, • Tiling & Slate Roofing all roofing works & repairs, Gavin Francis • uPVC Fascias & Soffits chimney’s, guttering & gutter Central Heating Installations ex British Gas • Chimney Repointing or Removal cleaning, pressure cleaning, • New Boilers • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance fencing & brickwork & driveways • Noisy Boilers and repairs www.apolloroofing.co.uk 07554 267087 • Burst pipes & leaks 07808 414965 • Bathroom & shower installations Your local plumber 0800 4748750 Free from landlines • FULLY INSURED 07860 174959 or 01622 853601 for a free, no obligation quote • ALL WORK GUARANTEED 01622 721779 & AT COMPETITIVE RATES Forge Lane, East Farleigh, 199173 Maidstone, Kent ME15 0TH NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE ESTIMATES E:[email protected] HIGH TOP ROOFING R. WEBSTER EST 20 YEARS SERVICES PLUMBING & HEATING Reg No. 185889 ALL TYPES OF ROOFING WORK & REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN HEATING AND PLUMBING ENGINEERS TILING • SLATING • FLAT ROOF • LEADWORK High efficiency boilers and heating systems installed, existing systems COMPETITIVE RATES All Work Guaranteed updated, all gas appliances repaired and serviced. • • FREE Advice & Estimates • Fault finding. Tel: Maidstone (01622) 736130 Mobile: 07946 085259 All plumbing work undertaken. STEVE JARRETT New bathrooms, en-suites, showers etc. Free estimates. All work guranteed. MAIDSTONE FELT FLAT ROOFING SPECIALIST No call out charge - Proudly advertising in the Downs Mail for 12 years. Tel: 01622 208621 High performance felt, Reboarding, Insulation, Mobile: 07949 241982 Dorma Garages, Extensions, Free Estimates Facias, Sofits & guttering! Est. 1979 Call our sales team now - ((Call Allington on 01622 861564 or 07889255813 01622 630 330 www.allingtonroofing.co.uk [email protected]

40 Maidstone East September 2016 downsmail.co.uk Classified Roofing Services continued Skip Hire continued P.BROWN BUILDING & ROOFING D.T CollectionPrompt Extensions, renovations, roofing, Fast D.T loft conversions & alterations Delivery SKIP HIRE Call Paul on 01634 865213 Over 20 Years Experience Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 07748185920 Prices from £110+VAT & 12 Yard Bins Covering Maidstone All work carries an Insurance Backed Guarantee 01622 & The Weald E: [email protected] EA Registered W: pbrownbuildingroofing.co.uk 843511 Fast & Prompt Service South Belringham Yard, South Lane, Commercial 2 Warren Road, Bluebell Hill Chatham, Kent ME5 9RD Sutton Valance, Kent ME17 3BD & Domestic Skip Hire Skip Hire Save ££££ On Your Skip Hire Domestic and Commercial 3,4,6,8,12, & 16yd Sizes Screened soil delivered by the load, ideal for turfing, borders and building up ground. • Permits arranged • Best Prices We can do same day delivery Call us for a competitive quote 01622-200800 or 01634 201104

Trailor Hire, Sales & Repairs TV Aerials, Satellites & Repairs Friendly • Effecient • Reliable • Competitive R & P Aerial Service 01622 631717 or 078069 12345 Trailer Hire-Sales-Repair Email: [email protected] PINBINS Aerials Kent Trailers Commercial and domestic Indespension Agent Digital Freeview FM Radio DAB Radio Livestock, Plant, Recovery, 1-14 day hire Council approved Van, General Purpose Satellite Trailers in stock Freesat Same day delivery Tipped at our site SKY HD New & Used 2-4 yard mini skips 70% waste recycled Detling TV Wall Mounting 6-20 yard skips Crushed concrete 01622 730063 07860 318166 From a standard install to hidden cables [email protected] Free initial visit Roll-on, roll-offs Top soil Grab hire also available PAUL MILL Television Ltd Bower Place Est. 1981 Maidstone ME16 8BG 01622 751000 • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & 3D Screens NEW SITE • Freeview play • Catch Up & On Demand BBC iPlayer, ITV Player & 4oD NOW OPEN • Your local Sky expert, SKY HD, multiroom & “hidden” dish installation Detling • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial, dish installation service Aerodrome TV wall mounting service. Please phone us for free friendly advice today Maidstone www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk Freephone We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service 0800 028 49 00 We accept payment by

Maidstone East September 2016 41 Classified downsmail.co.uk

Upholstery and Furnishings Water Services continued

STYLES AVAILABLE: ROLLER 01233 840624 CLASSIC VERTICALS ALI VENETIAN [email protected] BLINDS ROMAN WOODEN VENETIAN Simple. Easy. Classic The largest ● Blocked drain clearance FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE, FREE QUOTES, independently ● CCTV drain & sewer surveys HIGH QUALITY, WIDE RANGE, EXCELLENT VALUE, owned liquid ● Drain & sewer cleaning ALL WINDOW BLINDS FULLY GUARANTEED waste ● Cesspool & septic tank services www.ClassicsBlindsAshford.co.uk 01622 730572 management ● Tankering including ADR (hazchem) company in BEARSTED UPHOLSTERERS ● Pollution & flooding solutions •3 piece suites, sofas & chairs re-upholstered & repaired the UK ● Waste disposal & recycling •3 piece suites individually made to order •100’s of fabrics to choose from •DIY supplies •Collection & delivery •Antique restoration (01622) 863069 www.mtscleansing.co.uk Unit 3, Little Caring Farm, Caring Lane, Leeds, Maidstone Waste Collection Web Design

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Water Services Window Cleaning MB WINDOW CLEANING • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Power washing available for block paving & patios 01622 863502 07950 211 507 www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected]

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42 Maidstone East September 2016 Health & Beauty Recruitment

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Maidstone East September 2016 45 downsmail.co.uk

that the pharmacist’s car had been badly trust that the work could not be completed

aihCouncils Parish Broomfield and Kingswood damaged in the car park. within the given timescale. A discussion Ward report Maidstone Cllr Gill Fort said Convenience store The glass in the door took place on two types of salt bins that that following enquiries, it seemed that the had been broken and a slab had been could be purchased by the parish council parish did not have enough people on the thrown at the window the previous week. to locate at the village hall for the salt to be electoral role to increase the number of Both incidents had been reported to police. delivered in future. It was suggested that councillors to 11. The figure was 42 short of Donation request The request from this be added to the September agenda. the required total. For nine councillors, 701 Bearsted Parish Council for a contribution East Street It was suggested that the grass to 1,350 electors are needed and currently towards the cost of running the summer triangle in East Street in front of the the parish has 1,309. For 11 councilors, the play scheme was considered and a Almshouses could be made a feature with figure would need to be more than 1,351. donation of £150 was agreed. perhaps a planter to protect it from lorries. Cllr Fort suggested that the parish ask Olympicnic John Leaf was willing to mark Councillors were reminded that this was a parishioners to make sure they are out the ground. Cllr Carmichael offered to conservation area. It would be discussed registered on the electoral roll. source a barbecue and provide the gas. The further in commiee. Policing Four crimes had been reported – parish council would underwrite the loss Traffic Cllr Williams had wrien to Kent theft in Gravelly Boom Road, burglary of any food purchased but not used. Cllr Highway Services several times about the (non-dwelling) in Peter Pease Close, and Weeks offered to organise drinks with the traffic in Goddington Lane but had not criminal damage in Lenham Road and in convenience store. received any response to date. He now Cayser Drive. Cases of anti-social Garden competition Cllr Carmichael intended to contact Helen Whately MP to behaviour involving nuisance youths had offered to shortlist the remaining roads to ask her assistance. been reported in Charlesford Avenue and enable judging to be carried out. Defibrillators Harrietsham Club was Copperfield Close. speaking to the postmaster of the village Community Right to Bid Further enquiries post office to see whether he would be had revealed that there was only a CRB on Harrietsham prepared to pay the electrical running cost an asset of community value which has Pokemon Go The community warden had for the defibrillator to be sited outside. The been in current or recent use for the spoken to several children about using the assumed cost was about £8 a month. The community and that it contributes to the new Pokemon Go app while walking along other unit was to be placed on the wall at wellbeing of that community. As the land roads. He asked children to ensure they are the village hall by the parish office and an in question is privately owned, it cannot be aware of their surroundings while playing agreement was being drawn up with the registered as a community asset. The on the game and to go around in pairs chairman of the village hall. alternate option would be to write to the rather than on their own. He had also Ma’s Marathon Ma Gilbert was landowners directly. Councillors requested aended training to identify vulnerable completing the Canterbury half marathon that the clerk write to the landowners of people in villages and asked that they on August 29 to raise money for a new two parcels of land at the end of register on the UK Power Network’s portable piano at Harrietsham School Charlesford Avenue advising of their register so that if there was an incident in (sponsor form in the parish office). interest to purchase. the area, they could be quickly found and Show The annual village show would be Sports field Signs at the field needed to be evacuated if necessary. on September 3. updated to include more warnings that Police report PCSO John Boyd said there dogs are not allowed in the play area. The had been two crimes. One was an clerk was asked to obtain quotes for aggravated robbery which was an ongoing Hollingbourne replacement signs. The clerk had requested investigation. He reassured all present that New homes Wealden Homes, developers costs from Maidstone Council for lone women were not the target in this of the 14 homes being built next to 103 emptying waste bins at the sports field, but incident, the robbery was for specific items. Eyhorne Street, had contributed £78k to they had not been received yet. The loaned There had been 38 other incidents reported Maidstone Council and KCC in relation to CCTV from the crime support unit had to the police which included one road the site. Of this, £22,050 was open space now been removed. The weekly sports traffic accident and a report of bad driving. contribution for use at Hollingbourne field checks would be done by Cllr Clark There had been more calls about suspicious Recreation Ground and the Cardwell play and forwarded to the clerk for filing. activity and PCSO Boyd urged everyone to areas. The clerk would contact Maidstone Mobile home A retrospective application report everything of a suspicious nature Council about this. for replacement of a gypsy mobile home at immediately on 101. Nuisance vehicles Fete barbecue Cllr Cobbe reported that it Orchard Drive, Chartway Street, Suon around Sandway Road were being was not imperative that a food hygiene Valence with a single-storey detached monitored. qualification was obtained for the barbecue dwelling had been refused by Maidstone Meetings A resident asked why the parish at the fete, but it had been obtained in Council.The applicant had lodged an council, having unanimously agreed to advance of this. It was reported that the appeal with the Planning Inspectorate. move its meetings to the school hall, had fete had gone very well. stayed at the village hall. It was suggested Crime report One crime was reported – a that the venue for parish council meetings burglary on the A20. There were no cases Downswood be added to the agenda for September. of anti-social behaviour. Council vacancy Theresa Lyons had Hedge cuing Work was required to the Parked vehicles Several vehicles had been expressed an interest in the vacancy but hedges on the east side of the allotments. parked on the grass verge on Greenway was unable to aend the meeting. She was Complaints had been received from Court Road, close to the junction with the to forward a CV for consideration. allotment holders that they were unable to A20. Both had been moved and any other Vegetation A resident asked about the access their plots as the hedges were vehicles should be reported by calling 101. vegetation on roads and pavements and encroaching on the footpaths and the area Sewerage inspection It was confirmed that was told that KCC was due to start was overgrown with neles. A quote for the foul water disposal in the village was spraying with weedkiller. £135 for the section running along the not perfect and a jeer was needed for Parking It was agreed to put a request on allotments was accepted. regular clearance of the pipes. Since 2013, the website asking drivers of commercial Salt bag The tonne salt bag, delivered by heavy jeing had taken place every three vehicles to park considerately. Kent Highways for the winter, had been months, controlling the situation. CCTV Potholes The online reporting system was placed in the wrong position which had had shown a blockage in the Hasteds area said to be working well. Potholes were resulted in the soil being contaminated pipework and Southern Water was usually inspected and marked out ready to and a section of the hedge dying. The working to solve this. be repaired within a couple of days. chairman of the village hall trust had Storm drains These were overflowing in Mallards roundabout Repairs to the wrien to the parish council giving 60 days the area of Tanyard Coage and the surface roundabout and the road surface were to rectify the problem. It was noted that the water drained at the corner of Eyhorne being investigated. hedge could not be replaced in 60 days as it Street to the river. It was noted that the Car park A car appeared to have been was the wrong time of year to establish a floodwater came from the manhole. abandoned in the car park for several new hedge. Cllr Kay had informed the Village shop Shula had received much months. As the car park was often used by chairman that the parish council was positive feedback about the village shop non shoppers, Caxtons would be asked to currently obtaining three quotes for the but it needed to be a viable business. The provide an appropriate sign. It was noted remedial work. He would confirm with the parish council wanted to help but would

46 Maidstone East September 2016 Parish Councils Crime reports 47 mail.co.uk . downs Lenham September 2016 September . . . It was resolved that the Lenham Bearsted Bearsted Maidstone East ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Phase one maintenance and Cllr Osborne reported The community warden The signage in The Square was Lenham Primary’s exam results The diseased trees in the south Watch Cllr Culver was organising a site CALL 01622 880751 ALARM NOT WORKING? The lock on a garage door was damaged Fencing was damaged at a property in A vehicle was broken into in a car park WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS on a driveway in Lenham Heath, in Douglas Road, Ashford Road, in Lenside Drive, with MBC to discuss parkingFoord issues and in Douglas Road. Crime report reported that there had beenLenham, six two crimes in in Lenham Heathroad and traffic four accidents. There wereto 38 the calls police from LenhamLenham and Heath. six Action in was beingabout taken reports of criminal damage. Community centre delegated authority for the landwould transfer be concluded by theGreenwood clerk. and Cllrs Jerre were authorisedexecute to the transfer. The landlordssurgery of would the meet with thediscuss trustees the to car park facility. Highways ongoing with several businesses interested in buying a fingerpost sign.was Cllr to Scrivens aend a meetingdiscuss with speed KCC reduction to in HeadcornCCTV Road. meeting at Lenham storage toreplace repair the or CCTV overlooking thepark. BMX The Ham Lane CCTVrepairing. also needed Play facilities repair of equipment was almostLeaflets complete. had been delivered toresidents nearby outlining future equipment installation. The hedge needed toback be – cut the clerk wasmaer to of organise urgency. this as a Environment overgrown hedges along the Highand Street the Twiens footpath. Weeds hadsprayed been in The Square andand the now High needed Street to beGreenwood removed. would Cllr discuss this withWaring. S. Cllr Walmsley would investigate the option of residents seingassociation up and an cuing the grassCherry in Close the play area. Education were favourable. The position of headteacher was to be advertised.deputy The head had taken onmeantime. the Swadelands role were in consulting the on the building of a newwere science concerns block. about There the futureswimming of pool. the Cemetery east corner would need towould be be felled. sought Quotes and aundertaken. tree audit Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police . . Boxley . There was a request that . . A resident was concerned A wrien report was noted. A resident said she had A resident raised concerns Cllr Bob China said the buildout , was broken into and small items Lenham Thurnham A site meeting would be arranged Otham Detling It was reported that trees at the top . A vehicle was broken into in Otham A vehicle parked in Fauchons Lane, The number plates were stolen from a Golf clubs were stolen from a Seat Leon A container was broken into at a site in The number plates were taken from a Fencing was stolen from a field in Frin- A vehicle was broken into in Hockers Neighbourhood Working to reduce crime. Leeds van in the Street, Street, Bearsted were taken. Fiat Punto parked in a driveway in Robins ingham, Avenue, Lane, added that due to thevegetation wet had weather, grown out ofMembers control. agreed that the statevillage of was the unacceptable and itthat was the agreed contractor should beundertake asked an to urgent cut andvillage sweep from of end the to end. Buildout at the top of theKCC village Cllr was Gary overgrown. Cooke saidthis he with would the raise highways officer.that He there added had been athat number the of buildout accidents might haveand contributed these to were being considered. Police report There was a discussion aboutthe a parish burglary and in the actionpolice. taken It by was the thought thisparticularly was bad a incident and apresence police at the meeting towould allay have fears been helpful. Itwrite was to agreed the to Police andCommissioner Crime about this. Cleanup day aended this event but nobodyup. had Cllr turned Gill Fort saidadvertised the in event the had parish been magazinehad but not it been well organised. Lenham Glebe pond about newts in the pondgranting following of the permission to build on the site. The chairman confirmed full ecological reports have been submied toCouncil Maidstone during the planning process. Tree branches overhanging tree branches should beback cut on Lenham Heath RoadThe at landowner Sandway. would be identifiedasked and to cut back theLiverton vegetation. Hill about the incidences of largewere vehicles unable that to negotiate theCllr narrow Scrivens road. said Unsuitable forsigns HGVs were to be installed. Trees of Robins Close were overgrown,the as footpath was from the stationStorage. to Cllr Lenham Sams said theClose trees had at been Robins reported towith KCC. overgrown Issues vegetation had been reported in Honywood Road. Parking ,was . . Stockbury, Boxley Boxley . Two vehicle . . Stockbury A working party . A resident aended It was noted that the . Stockbury A Maidstone Council A quotation had been . Blue Bell Hill Blue Bell Hill It was noted that the bench Stockbury Fifty-five visitors from Maidstone Council’s parking Stockbury Boxley A number plate was taken from a green A vehicle was broken into in Boxley A vehicle was damaged in Harrow An outbuilding was broken into at a A caravan was taken from a property in Golf buggies, a utility tractor, fencing A trailer was taken from the yard of a A shed was broken into at a horse yard A home in Abigail Crescent, Toyota Corolla in The Street, and other equipment was damaged at the and needed tidying. War memorial project was to be created formemorial. the Funding restoration would of be the soughtthe and work would include addingcorrecting names those and that had beenOff-road misspelled. bikers enforcement officer had hinted thathad there been a decline ofbiking. interest The in club quad organisers feltunlikely it they was would meet theirevents limit for of this year. Twinning Templeuve aended the fete andimpressed. were very The golf tournament wassuccess also and a ended in aStreet draw. lighting received by the street lightingfor contractors the LED upgrade ingas the lamp” style on of black a poles. “faux property in Hayes Lane, A shed at awas farm entered in and Pett chickens Road, stolen. were killed and Road, golf club off premises off Court, broken into and carcash were and taken. house keys and in Harple Lane, batteries were stolen. Leeds Village maintenance the meeting to raise concernsstate about of the the village andvegetation overgrown from Penfold Hill toStreet. Lower Cllr John Gove saidthe the vegetation cuing was of due toby be the undertaken contractor appointed bycouncil the and parish by Kent CountyConcerns Council. were raised that thewere cuings not being collected bywho the had contractor not done asaid good the job. parish Cllr council Gove hadcontractors changed since the previous year. He need to see the books.this Shula information would to bring the nextParking meeting. enforcement department had provided double yellow lines within theopposite pull-in The Pavings. Overgrown hedge hedge at Bourneside Terrace, manywhose of residents were partially-sighted, elderly or disabled, was overhangingpavement. the Golding Homes had saidwork the would be carried outclerk shortly. would The chase this upwrite and to would the also owner ofschool the as hedge it near also the neededVegetation a cut. near the railway bridge waswith overgrown neles and impossible toVerges sit within on. the village were overgrown Pett Road. 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