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June 2017 No. 242 N

Rustie to be panto’s News Litter firm trouble Fairy Godmother A LITTER enforcement firm em- RUSTIE Lee, the TV cook and star of the Bafta- ployed by the council has been nominated "Real Marigold Hotel", will play the suspended over claims it of-  Fairy Godmother at this year's panto at the fers staff fine bonuses. 3 Hazlitt Theatre, Maidstone. Cinderella runs from December 1 to 31. Rustie, famous for her infectious laugh, has Arriva face numbers been on our screens for decades and is still a reg- DATA shows Invicta grammar ular on ITV's This Morning. She has also ap- pupils are turning up late  peared in West End shows such as South Pacific. after timetable changes. 4 A spokesman for the Hazlitt Theatre said: “Rustie is very much one of the nation’s favourites. We believe that she will prove to be a Princess Royal visit big draw in our production of Cinderella .” PRINCESS Anne dropped in on  More Hazlitt panto news on page 8 Maidstone’s Save the  Children shop. 16

Loulous Ofsted praise A CHILDCARE facility in Maidstone Teens charged with has been rated as “out-  standing” by Ofsted . 26 killing man in park DETECTIVES investigating the violent death of a homeless Romanian man in have charged two teenagers with murder. Alex McDonald (18), of Regency dress, was arrested on May 16 on Place, Maidstone, and Jimmy Buck- suspicion of murder and was still in ley (19), of Capell Close, , custody as Downs Mail went to are both charged with the murder press. Obituaries 36 of Razvan Sirbu (pictured), be- It is understood Mr Sirbu had tween May 6 and 7. been sleeping rough behind Crime Reports 37 Mr Sirbu (21), of no fixed ad- houses on Tovil Hill, but had more dress, was found dead in Crisbrook recently acquired a tent. A CAR was broken into at Gabriels Meadow in the Loose Valley Con- News of his death stunned the Hill and a bank card stolen; servation Area at 7.15am on Sun- local community and floral tributes youths were seen trying to gain day, May 7, 2017. were laid close to where he died. access to a van at Glebe Lane; a black bicycle was stolen from The According to police, a post Mr Sirbu’s family described him Broadway; a house was broken mortem examination revealed Mr as “a son who was always willing into and jewellery taken by bur- Sirbu had died from “blunt force to help those in need”. glars in Park Avenue. trauma” to the head and body. Mr Sirbu’s mother said in a state- McDonald and Buckley have were also arrested in connection ment: “My only son, Razvan, was Parish Councils 37 been remanded in custody and ap- with the incident have been bailed full of mercy and empathy; he peared before Magistrates pending further enquiries until would always want to help others FLEUR Willson has been on May 16. June 8. in need. co-opted onto the parish council Two boys, aged 14 and 15, who An 18-year-old, of no fixed ad- “Razvan was very shy and very in ; the smoking of good. He was very well-behaved cannabis at King George V play- and listened to people intently. ing field in Loose has been re- “He had a lot of love from me ported but not caught on CCTV; and my wider family. Razvan was the parish clerk at Barming has my only child, so he was spoilt by received one report of rubbish the whole family. He was also the being dumped at one of the new YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT only grandson to my parents.” bus shelters. [email protected] Anyone with information can call 01622 690290 Police on 01622 604100 quot- Comment 46-47 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent ing crime reference YY/011763/17. webexpand.co.uk 01622 880840 web design •• google promotion ecommerce OUR REPUTATION SPEAKS FOR ITSELF windows : doors : conservatories

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2 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Homes plan at Lier force suspended traffic hotspot RESIDENTS have been sent leaflets revealing an 840-homes plan near gridlocked Hermitage Lane. after BBC’s Panorama Developer Gladman has delivered 470 pamphlets to homes and busi- nesses outlining a public consulta- MAIDSTONE council has sus- he often pretended to call the police tion into their proposal. pended litter wardens from duty in order to make people hand over They promise a new school, doc- for a second time after a Panorama their personal details. Once he had tor’s surgery and improved traffic. investigation revealed they were these, he could issue a ticket. Gladman Developments Ltd in- being paid bonuses based on the Kingdom has about 28 contracts tends on submitting an outline ap- number of tickets they handed out. with local authorities and, last year, plication to Tonbridge and Malling The council said it was aware that saw its profits jump by 30% to £9m. Borough Council in 2017. employees of Kingdom Security, the The company said it was important The site is a 33.69 hectare field to company it employs to run its litter that members of the public knew east of Hermitage Lane in Ayles- warden service, could receive a “dis- what could happen if they are con- ford. The south east boundary is cretionary competence allowance”. victed at court, but any decision to near Barming station and a large However, the borough insisted prosecute would be made by the depot to the south, with that this was linked to overall per- local authority. Road and Hermitage Lane border- formance and not merely the num- Kingdom officers returned to ing the north and west. Residential ber of tickets issued. Viewers saw how one operative duty in Maidstone last October hav- areas in and Allington lie The latest suspension follows the explained staff topped up their £9.47 ing been suspended by the council to the west and south east. BBC TV airing of Inside the Litter per hour pay with a ticket bonus. after one fined a woman for feeding A new link road from the Poppy Police, which showed an officer The first four fines went to King- the ducks in Tovil. Fields roundabout to Hermitage from Kingdom Services claiming dom and then a bonus of up to £6 Jennifer Shepherd, Maidstone Lane will alleviate traffic congestion that his bonus one month was each thereafter. council’s head of environment and between the Coldharbour Round- nearly £1,000. Kingdom – which splits the fine public realm, said: “In light of the about and A20/Hermitage Lane Other officers were filmed hand- revenues 50-50 with Maidstone Bor- Panorama investigation, we have junction. ing out fines for dropped orange ough Council – claims the scheme is made the joint decision with King- The Poppy Fields roundabout will peel and poured-away coffee. to reward competency and cus- dom to remove the officers from also be improved to significantly in- Panorama sent an undercover re- tomer service. duty today (May 16). crease current capacity. porter to work with Kingdom’s en- The undercover reporter was told “We are speaking with Kingdom Congestion at the A20/Hermitage forcement team in Bexley, where by a trainer: “Obviously, we are to review how we can continue to Lane junction will be reduced by one officer boasted he earned £987 here to make money, I’m not going provide the best service to residents land being safeguarded for Kent in bonuses while working in Ash- to not say that to people.” and when officers will be rein- County Council’s highway im- ford. One officer told the reporter that stated.” provement works, says Gladman.

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Maidstone June 2017 3 News downsmail.co.uk Buses ‘making pupils late’ THE number of pupils late for classes at Invicta Grammar School shot up immediately after bus giant Arriva’s much-criticised changes to the timetable, Downs Mail has learnt. The school kept a detailed log be- closely with Invicta Grammar fore and after the company cut School, and all other schools within services on key routes over the its region, to continually monitor Easter holidays. and improve performance.” Invicta Grammar School (IGS) Langley residents accused Arriva data shows that on the altered of “taking the heart out of their vil- number 12 service – which has at- lage” at a lively meeting with the tracted much of the criticism – four bus operator earlier this month pupils were late for classes between Head of Invicta Grammar School after it scrapped the stop at Lang- March 20 and 31. ley Heath. Julie Derrick (left) claims Arriva’s But post-changes, between April The number 12 serves timetable changes have led to a 18 and May 5, the number had shot to Maidstone via and up dramatically to 68. huge increase in pupils arriving late . On all services used by IGS to lessons Now children will have to cross pupils, the number of pupils late the busy A274 or wait for the less between March 20 -31 was 130, but this way. As both a parent and victa Grammar School has raised a frequent number 13. from April 18 to May 12, it had teacher, I am appalled at the way in concern around late arriving pupils Tory spokesman Helen Whately jumped by 402. which Arriva have changed timeta- and as a listening, passenger-facing said: “There are no magic answers, Mrs Derrick’s warning before bles and services mid-way through organisation, Arriva is working but there were several suggestions Easter now appears to have been the year. with them to review their data and made, like a new crossing on the borne out. “It is nonsense to reduce services; explore any issues which can ac- Sutton Road and a bus stop, which She said at the time: “It is not it will just mean more cars, more tively be addressed. will be looked into by KCC. only frustrating, but extremely dis- traffic and yet more congestion in “Arriva prides itself on its part- “I will also follow up the com- appointing that students and par- Maidstone.” nership working with the hun- plaints about pupils arriving at ents of Maidstone and the Arriva did not dispute IGS’s dreds of schools right across its Maidstone schools late because of surrounding villages are affected in data, and a spokesman said: “In- network, and is continuing to work the timetable changes." Watches taken Pews replaced A SHOPLIFTER who stole watches Charity bowling challenge ST NICHOLAS’ at Allington is the and beer from stores in Maidstone BUSINESSMEN in Maidstone Assistant manager Law Mar- latest church in Maidstone to dis- has avoided a prison sentence. are putting their computers to tin said: “We pride ourselves on pense with fixed pews in its nave. Daniel Graham Reed was sen- one side to test their skills on creating positive energy and The traditional seating arrange- tenced on 24 April, 2017, at Medway the bowling alley as part of a happy memories in our centre, ment has been replaced in favour of Magistrates’ Court after pleading novel charity challenge. especially for children and fam- chairs, allowing greater flexibility. guilty to two counts of shoplifting. Maidstone United Football ilies, and the work of the Young As well as “re-arranging the fur- On April 3, 2017, the 39-year-old, Club, Evans Cycles, Gravity, Lives Foundation is about en- niture” at the church, St Nicholas’ of no fixed address, stole four cans Sports Direct, the Odeon and suring young people receive the offered other unused chairs to of beer worth £5 from a supermarket the O2 are among those step- positivity and support they parishes in the Maidstone Deanery. in The Mall, Maidstone. On April 23, ping up to the line for the chal- need. We feel it’s a natural fit to They are now being put to good use 2017, he stole two watches worth lenge at the Hollywood Bowl in name them our official charity by the choir and in the Centre at St £38.99 from a shop in St Peter’s Maidstone in aid of the Young partner.” Philip’s in Waterloo Street. Street, Maidstone. Lives Foundation. The charity’s Karen Knight Magistrates sentenced Reed to 60 The charity league is just one said: “The benefits this will Dinosaur day days in prison, suspended for 12 of the fund-raisers being organ- bring to a wide range of local HE’S big, fast and scary. Meet Rex months. He must also pay £85 costs ised by staff at the Lockmeadow children is invaluable and will and a £115 victim surcharge. bowling alley for the Maid- help us reach so many more – the Dino at Maidstone Museum on stone-based children's charity, and do more – for the increasing Saturday, May 27. Half-term fun which offers support to vulnera- number of disadvantaged chil- Rex will appear at 10.30am, ble and disadvantaged children dren in our community.” 12.30pm and 2.30pm on Dino Day. SHEEP and sheepdogs will be the and is celebrating its 10th an- The grand final will be on Children can also have fun mak- star turns this May half-term at the niversary. Wednesday, June 7. ing their own dino tail to be like heritage centre. Rex, at a cost of £3 per child. Working dogs, Jake and Barney, will take a rest from herding duties to meet the crowds, while ferret-rac- ing, family games on the green and ‘Road rage’ case witness appeal farm rides add to the rural fun. The action happens from May 27 POLICE have appealed for wit- was reportedly cut up. anyone who may have witnessed to June 4. Details from 01622 763936, nesses to a road rage incident in According to , a fe- the incident and who has not yet email [email protected] or which a woman allegedly kicked male passenger in one of the cars contacted police. visit www.kentlife.org.uk another driver's car window near got out and started swearing at the A 17-year-old girl was arrested car park. driver of the other vehicle. on May 9, on suspicion of assault The incident happened at A statement said: "The suspect is and criminal damage. She has been Towpath opens Fairmeadow at about 3.40pm on then said to have kicked the vic- released, pending further investi- THE new towpath between Maid- May 1. A 17-year-old has been ar- tim’s driver side window, causing gation. stone and Aylesford has opened. rested and bailed pending further it to break. Anyone with information should Funded by KCC and Aylesford enquiries. "It is reported she then got back contact Kent Police on 01622 Parish Council, the path from the Police have received an allega- into the car, which was driven 604100, quoting reference Malta Inn at Allingon to Aylesford tion that both cars stopped at traffic away in the direction of St Faith’s YY/011195/17. Alternatively contact village is part of a project to provide lights close to the entrance of the Street." Kent Crimestoppers anonymously a riverside walk to Barming Bridge. car park when one of the vehicles Officers would like to speak to on 0800 555111.

4 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk News

New care home - school doubts?

A PLAN to add a care home to a She told members of “medical campus” off the M20 at Parish Council’s May meeting: Maidstone is to be considered by “The planning authority is the bor- the borough council - but two new ough council.” schools there may be in doubt. Cllr Springett said the first mem- The proposal for a 75-bed unit on bers of the borough council knew the site off the busy junction 7, near of the EFA’s intention to put new the Nottcutts Garden Centre, is on primary and special schools at the the desk of the borough’s planning junction 7 site was when it was officers and is expected to be con- published in Downs Mail. WhWhereere there’stherree’s a sidered in the coming weeks. Tory parliamentary candidate The care home would include and former MP Helen Whately, “step-down facilities” for patients who has been campaigning for a well enough to leave hospital but new primary school serving the WWillill tthere’shere’saws a waywawaayy not ready to go home. Bearsted area, said: “I find dealing Gary Watson, from JLL – the with the EFA very frustrating; they YourYYoour Will can be a very powerful tool to help your company advising the applicants have evidently not been liaising on property matters – says the ap- with the borough council I have loved ones. It can: plication represents a £10m invest- worked hard for the funding and ment. we’ve got it. The question of the site • Ensurree your assets are left to the people you choose He claims the need to tackle bed is something to be worked out be- • Prrotect your family - appappoint guardians for blocking in the area and a shortage tween the EFA and the borough of care services for the frail has council.” your childrren been clearly identified. Cllr Springett had accused Mrs • Save your family tax The site is already earmarked for Whately of “blowing her own a mental health hospital and two trumpet” over the EFA’s decision • Give you peace of mind, a very valuable commodity new schools. to fund the schools. The latter is likely to cause some Currently taking shape, with the Just as you take expert advice when buying a new controversy as the land identified help of a high-rise crane, is a 64-bed house or investment plan, it’s even more important to by the Education Funding Agency mental health hospital for a health take expert advice regarding your Will. (EFA) is designated as “permanent care company, following the instal- woodland”, according to local bor- lation of a new link road. If you don’t have a Will – now is the time to discuss ough councillor Val Springett. See letters pages, 46&47 your wishes. If you have a Will – does it still reflect your wishes and in a tax efficient way? Coffee grounds for gardens ToTo rreviewreeview your currcurrentreent Will at no charge contact A SUPERMARKET is giving away used coffee grounds from its in-store us today.todayy.. café to gardeners, to help their plants to thrive. Gardeners can get the used coffee grounds by visiting Morrisons store 01227 643266 in Sutton Road, Maidstone, and picking up a bag. There will be no limit to the number of bags available to each gardener to take away. Maidstone 01622 698051 Used coffee grounds are a source of nitrogen, which is needed by plants TenterdenTTeenterden 01580 767540 in order to grow. They also encourage the growth of micro-organisms and are thought to attract earthworms. Adrian Perris, store manager, said: “Used coffee grounds are a great or- www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monc.whitehead-monckton.co.uk ganic resource which gardeners can use in their composter or soil. We sell WhiteheadWhitehead MoncktonMonckton LLimitedimited (no.(no. 008366029),8366029), rregisteredegistered iinn a lot of cups of coffee and don’t like to see anything going to waste – so EnglandEngland & WWales.ales. RRegisteredegistered oofficeffice 7722 KKinging SStreet,treet, MMaidstone,aidstone, Kent,KKeent, it’s great to see this natural fertiliser going to a good home. We hope that MEME14www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk14 11BL.BL. AAuthoriseduthorised aandnd rregulatedegulated bbyy tthehe SSolicitorsolicitors RRegulationegulation Maidstone’s plants will be in full bloom as a result.” AAuthorityuthority uundernder nno.o. 6608279.08279. DM2016

Maidstone June 2017 5 News downsmail.co.uk Poorer students ‘need 11+ help’ Number of cancelled POORER pupils should be given extra 11-plus marks to help them get into grammar schools, according to an education research body. ops soars in bed crisis A report by the Education Data- lab, looking at the application of the THE number of cancelled opera- has revealed that 31 people so far selective tests in Kent, says the odds tions caused by bed shortages at this year had their surgeries can- are loaded against children from Maidstone Hospital has more than celled because there were not poorer backgrounds. doubled since 2015, a request under enough beds available, that’s an in- The report says parents who are freedom of information legislation crease of 50% on the 2016 total. better off can afford tutoring at home has revealed. “Urgent funds are needed for and this creates a disparity with chil- Twelve surgeries were cancelled in Maidstone NHS. We cannot con- dren not being offered preparation 2015, but this has risen sharply to 31 tinue asking the system to deliver for the tests at school. It also consid- this year alone. more and more, without giving it the ered that the tests are too short and In total, the Freedom of Informa- resources to do so.” unreliable. tion Act request shows that 58 oper- She said her party could aim to The Education Datalab report ations in total have been postponed redirect a penny in the pound to said: “Kent state primary schools are in the past two years. plug “funding gaps” in the NHS and explicitly asked not to prepare their The disturbing revelation by the social care. pupils for the 11-plus. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells A Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells “This means that the only ones NHS Trust was made by the Liberal Miss Fermor said: “I have experi- NHS Trust spokesman said: “It is able to gain familiarity with the rea- Democrat parliamentary candidate enced first-hand the pain caused to sometimes necessary to postpone soning questions are those whose for Maidstone and the Emily patients and their families of bed planned procedures during periods parents help them practice, those Fermor (pictured). shortages in Maidstone Hospital. of unprecedented demand for emer- who pay for private coaching and She discovered that surgeries can- “In February this year, my elderly gency care to maintain safe services. those at private schools. celled due to bed availability rose grandad who is battling bowel can- “To put this into context, our hos- “We think this lack of 11-plus from 12 in 2015, to 15 in 2016, and 31 cer, was left in a corridor in Maid- pitals carried out over 1,900 more preparation for some explains why in 2017. stone Hospital overnight after he planned procedures, and admitted the free school meals gap in average This meant an increase of over had been admitted to A&E. over 4,400 more patients in an emer- marks is greatest in reasoning.” 50% from 2016, just months into “Despite the tireless hard work of gency last year than the year before – The report is based on data ob- 2017. our NHS staff, he did not get the ur- treating nearly 100,000 patients in tained under the Freedom of Infor- Although the trust does not deny gent treatment he needed because total. mation Act by the Kent Education the accuracy of the figures, it sought there were not enough beds. “We are working with our health Network, which opposes selective to set the figures in context of treat- “My grandad is not the only one. and social care partners to meet education. ing 100,000 patients in total. Our Freedom of Information request people’s changing health needs.”

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6 Maidstone June 2017 Maidstone June 2017 7 News downsmail.co.uk Ugly sisters kick off panto fun IT may only be May – but it’s already pantomime time at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maidstone. Cinderella has launched, with fa- “It can be gruelling with three miliar faces returning and some shows on some days so you need star names promised. something to help you through – Producer Martin Cleverley said and the audience here is amazing that ”household names” would be and provides that boost. announced over the next few “Playing The Dame is different to weeks. this role. A dame is a cuddly auntie The traffic stopped in Maidstone figure that kids would not mind and passers-by posed for selfies getting a squeeze from. outside the Earl Street venue when “But being an Ugly Sister, you the show’s Ugly Sisters unveiled a get to be vile and the audience love giant glass slipper. it. You get to be rude to the audi- The enormous prop was commis- ence, to the other characters and it sioned by the Hazlitt and made by is great fun being nasty.” theatre students in Sussex, and And Mr Cleverley added: “The shipped in to Maidstone this week. Ugly Sisters bring colour and a It turned heads when it was sense of wickedness to the show wheeled into the road for a photo- with plenty of audience interaction. shoot with the Maidstone Ugly Sis- Stephen has ‘sistered’ all over the ters of No Mercy, played by country and Adam is returning Autumn Anderson (8), from , meets the ugly sisters Stephen Richards and Adam Bor- after last year’s success. zone. mas interesting. It’s my sixth year “I love being a villain and a “We have a strong cast, including Adam is returning to the Hazlitt in panto and this will be a new ex- dame.” familiar faces Craig Anderson who after a successful run in last Christ- perience. Everyone in Maidstone But for Adam it is a return to his played Jingles last year and mas’s panto Sleeping Beauty, has been so lovely and I like the tra- old stomping ground. Matthew Pennington who will be which starred Louisa Lytton, from ditional theatre venue. He said: “It was so much fun so Dandini. EastEnders. “The Ugly Sisters are there to when I was asked back I jumped at “And we will be announcing Stephen is a sought-after panto cause carnage. We interrupt the the chance. some celebrity names over the next “sister” and he said: “I’ve never story-telling, have fantastic outfits, “The audience was great and for few weeks. It’s very exciting.” been to Maidstone before – this is and bawdy mischief in our attempt many children it is their first time  Cinderella runs from December my first day. to get Prince Charming for our- in the theatre and hopefully will 1 to 31. Tickets are available on “My first impression is…the one selves and leave Cinderella on the encourage them to come back over 01622 758611 or from the website way system. It could make Christ- scrapheap. the years. www.parkwoodtheatres.co.uk. McCann ban A DRIVER who was caught at the Police target speeding drivers wheel while disqualified has been NEARLY 1,000 motorists were belt and two for no insurance. September 2016, 1,810 people were spared prison. caught speeding in Kent during a A further eight speeding drivers killed and 25,160 people were seri- Jerry McCann was sentenced on seven-day police campaign. were reported for summons – mean- ously injured in crashes. April 25, 2017, at West Kent Magis- Officers hit the county’s streets on ing they may face court – and four In 2016 there were 49 fatalities on trates’ Court where he pleaded a road safety blitz between April 17 received graduated fixed penalty no- Kent roads compared to 57 in 2015. guilty to driving while disqualified, and 23. tices. Chief Inspector Tony Dyer, of driving without insurance and fail- The most serious offences – some Police issued 169 verbal warnings Kent’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “I ing to provide a blood specimen. 81 – ended with drivers facing court, to speeding motorists and two vehi- hope this campaign drives the mes- The court heard that in March receiving a penalty notice or being cles were seized for having no insur- sage home and those who fail to this year, the 23-year-old, of Pear- ticked off. ance. The Kent and Medway Safety learn the lessons will be penalised. son Close, Maidstone, was stopped Kent Police worked with partner Camera Partnership detected 955 “Communities list speeding as in a Citroen Berlingo in Sutton agencies including the Kent and speed offences. being one of the most important is- Road, Maidstone. Medway Safety Camera Partnership Research shows that 95 per cent sues for police to tackle and we Magistrates sentenced McCann and Kent County Council to target of all collisions on Kent’s roads are have listened and are doing some- to 12 weeks in prison, suspended speeding drivers. due to driver error, and speeding thing about their concerns. for a year, banned him for a year During the week of action, 81 traf- increases the chance of death or se- “Motorists should drive to the and ordered him to carry out un- fic offence reports were generated – rious injury significantly. conditions of the road. A speed paid work. 77 for excess speed, two for no seat- In the UK, from October 2015 to limit is exactly that, not a target.” Castle gardens in miniature GARDENERS at Leeds Castle will be showcase information about turning their world “inside out” for notable plants at Leeds Castle and the popular Chelsea Fringe this signpost visitors to where the full year. size gardens can be found in the A mini version of the castle’s grounds. Woodland Walk, Lady Baillie Also for the Fringe festival – from Mediterranean Garden, the May 24-31 – the castle’s Culpeper Garden, and a miniature horticultural team will give talks on maze of cress will be brought the history of the gardens and day- indoors – squeezed inside a garden to-day maintenance, with useful shed – for the event, which runs tips for visitors. from Saturday, May 20 until Entry to the festival is free for Sunday, June 4. those visitors holding annual The festival centrepiece will also tickets.

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Maidstone June 2017 9 News downsmail.co.uk World record to MPs join guests to mark Mr Potato Head MAIDSTONE’S very own Mr Potato Head is celebrating this week after 20 years of Downs Mail setting a new world record of a slightly different kind. THE Downs Mail hosted a party Philip Powell (33), of Vinters Park, to celebrate 20 years of newspaper ran for Action on Hearing Loss publishing in Maidstone and dressed as the character from hit Malling with a gathering of movie Toy Story. friends and distinguished guests. He got round the 26.2 mile course In his address at the Museum of From left, Downs on Sunday in 3 hours, 24 minutes Kent Life, the newspaper's founder Mail chairman and 19 seconds. and former editor Dennis Fowle Claire Procter, Mr Powell has thanked all his sup- told guests: "I think the most excit- president and porters and their donations. ing memory is the way the people founder Dennis Organisers Virgin London of Maidstone and Malling have Fowle and Marathon declared on its website: taken the Downs Mail to their of Maidstone Cllr “Philip Powell, Fastest marathon hearts." Derek Butler cut dressed as a Mr Potato Head – His daughter Claire Procter – 3:24:19.” the Downs Mail now chairman of Mail Publications And on social media, Mr Powell, Ltd – remembered the early days of birthday cake who runs hairdressing salon in the the business creating "wonderful backed our newest developments, nis and Claire before guests en- centre of Maidstone with his wife, and unique" newspapers that have including our daily Downs Mail joyed ferret racing in aid of Heart posted a photo of himself celebrat- gone from strength to strength, initiative on line.” of Kent Hospice and an owl display ing after the gruelling run. with the creation of a fifth edition The Downs Mail, which is based laid on by the Kent Owl Academy. He wrote: “Here we are a little in the popular Downs Mail series in in Bearsted, is now posted through Other guests included Maidstone while after the event and, whilst my November. the doors of 85,000 homes across MPs and Helen aching muscles are starting to heal She said: “At a time when other Maidstone and Malling each Whately, Heart of Kent Hospice my feet are still very blistered but newspapers are struggling to retain month, with more signing in to its chief executive Sarah Pugh, council you know what, I got the world their readership, it is wonderful to website daily or enjoying the quar- leader Fran Wilson, Bearsted parish record. have a loyal and growing audience terly, colour lifestyle magazine, councillors and Liberal Democrat “I am now the world record that enjoys reading every issue Mid Kent Living. Parliamentary candidates David holder for the fastest marathon as cover to cover. Maidstone mayor Cllr Derek But- Naghi and Emily Fermor. Mr Potato Head! Thank you all so so “We are also pleased to have the ler was among those to celebrate Other organisations represented much for donating.” continued support of our advertis- the publication’s 20th anniversary, included the YMCA and Black- He has raised £4,439.39 – just short ers who recognise this and have cutting a birthday cake with Den- thorn Trust. of his £5,000 target.

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10 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk News M&S stores on list of closures THE Marks and Spencer shops in Week Street, Maidstone, have both been highlighted for possi- ble closure. Industry analysts say Maidstone and the store in Tunbridge Wells could shut. It comes as M&S unveils plans to LEAP FOR JOY! open 36 new stores in the UK over the next six months, but close six. Spring/Summer sale More than 1,400 jobs will be cre- ated by the openings, 34 of which up food for now or tonight rather will be dedicated to its booming than doing one big shop or brows- on tenant fees! food business. Just two out of the ing and shopping online and col- 36 will also include its clothing and lecting in store are great examples Struggling to move but deterred by the costs? Let homewares ranges as the retailer of this, and we are committed to attempts to revive its general mer- adapting our business so that we us help you and welcome you into our office! chandise sales. stay in tune with our customers.” Shops closing this year include Mr Rowe added: “This means We are having a half price sale on all tenant Monks Cross, Portsmouth, Slough, there will be more M&S colleagues referencing fee’s. Bring in your copy of this advert , Wokingham and working in an increased number of to take advantage of this offer! Worksop. convenient locations, serving more But retail analyst Local Data customers. It also means that we *Valid until 31st July 2017 Company has put Maidstone and will open new stores, some will re- Tunbridge Wells on its list of M&S duce in size, some will move, some stores which might be closing. will close and others will convert to Chief executive Steve Rowe said: food only. “M&S stores will always be an in- “Each proposal we make will be tegral part of our customer offer, very carefully considered, with our working seamlessly alongside our colleagues and customers firmly website, M&S.com, to deliver great front of mind. It is our intention products and service to our cus- that nobody leaves M&S and we tomers. will work as hard as possible to en- “However, our customers’ shop- sure that we can deliver against this ping habits are changing. Picking promise.” £1600pcm – 4 Beds Relief road support grows CAMPAIGN signs have started to appear along the length of Willington Street in support of a relief road. Organised by Willington Street Action Group (WILLact), the durable plastic posters are appearing on gateposts, telegraph poles and fences. One has even popped up inside a caravan. Jenny Sutton, a tireless cam- paigner to get traffic volumes re- duced on Willing- ton Street, said: £895pcm – 2 Beds “These are the signs going up along the entire street here. “We started off placing them in strategic positions, but they are be- coming so popu- lar, many residents have placed an order! They are appearing on gates, poles, fences, walls, in windows and even inside a caravan. “The only spare ones we have now are WILLAct, which won't work in Leeds and Langley obviously! The softer, cheaper ones are weather re- sistant and suitable for inside windows or in front gardens on gates, fences posts etc. The harder ones are slightly more expensive, but would £1800pcm – 3 Beds last longer by far.” Campaigners and Kent county councillor Gary Cooke believe that a re- [email protected] lief road running from the A274 to the A20/M20 will help to take much of the traffic off Willington Street and the B2163. www.ferrisandco.net If you would like to know more, contact Mrs Sutton on jenmartinsut- [email protected]. Call the Lettings office on 01622 737800 for more information.

Maidstone June 2017 11 News downsmail.co.uk Hospitals’ IT Road resurfacing ‘will systems clear MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells hospitals were not affected in the recent global cyber-attack on cause more problems’ computer systems. A spokesman for the health trust RESIDENTS of a cul-de-sac in said it was "business as usual" Maidstone are urging the county while Maidstone Borough Council council does a “proper” job of got the all clear to use its emails resurfacing their road for the first and website. time in 60 years. A spokesman said: “While Maid- Those living in Hubble Drive and stone council has been unaffected Valentine Road say the council’s our ICT team has been working plan to resurface their road with Borough Cllr hard over the weekend. We have “micro asphalt” is no more than “a Eddie Powell taken some minor precautionary sticking plaster solution” and likely with residents and are continuing to moni- to cause more problems. of Valentine tor the situation very closely. Residents say they are wary after Road “Customers can communicate temporary tar patching last Novem- via email and website, although ber resulted in people walking and know that money is tight, but if road swept prior to the start. some online forms might be un- sticky, loose chippings through their the pavements and later the road are “The road and pavements will be available. Should the position homes for weeks. left covered with excessive loose subsequently swept again once com- change we may have to interrupt Speaking ahead of the work – due chippings, we will be expecting the pleted. We understand residents’ services at short notice.” to start on May 25 – Gillian Roberts, county council to clear them up.” concerns regarding loose chippings. from Valentine Road, said: “It is in- Residents say the chippings will However, with micro asphalt these evitable that loose chippings will be only add to the risk posed to pedes- are normally minimal – this is a dif- Triathlon date left behind after the work is carried trians by the uneven pavements ferent process to surface dressing, THERE is still time to enter Leeds out. serving the cul-de-sac. which does result in loose chippings. Castle’s triathlon next month. “Residents endured weeks of hav- A Kent County Council “We closely monitor all of our sites The event, now in its fourth year, ing loose stones carried into their spokesman said the concerns of resi- for any signs of problems and is on June 24 and 25, and includes homes on their shoes following the idents were being listened to but should loose material be generated, options for all levels of experience. jet patching. said micro asphalt was the best op- we will arrange for this to be swept. Last year, saw over 1,000 people “Micro asphalt is rolled in by traf- tion. “Micro asphalt is generally used take part. fic movement and is not suitable for He added:“Before resurfacing by KCC on urban roads and lasts up For details of how to enter, or a cul-de-sac, where we have been Valentine Road and Hubble Drive, to 10 years. Any lining will be re- watch the action, visit www.leeds- told it could take six weeks to bed in. the road will be thoroughly checked, placed following the new surface castle.com/triathlon or call 01622 “We are not unreasonable people with any weeds removed and the being applied.” 767871.

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Maidstone June 2017 13 News downsmail.co.uk Cracking down on knife crime POLICE blitzed Maidstone in a na- staff members were reminded of tionwide campaign on knife crime. their responsibilities regarding the A total of 49 people were arrested sale of knives. across the county by Kent Police Superintendent Tim Cook said: during a week of action. “Knife crime across the county re- High-visibility patrols were com- mains low compared to other areas, pleted in town centres and suspects but we are not complacent. It re- were stopped and searched. mains a priority to tackle those who In Maidstone, there were three ar- think it is acceptable to carry knives rests for possession of a “bladed ar- on our streets. ticle” and two for an offensive “A number were found in posses- weapon. In total, six knives were sion of weapons in connection with seized. other criminality, such as the supply How a piece of kit saves lives Arrests were also made for of- of drugs, and were arrested. fences including possession of class “Our message remains very sim- KIT that can save lives was demonstrated to members of the Maidstone A drugs with intent to supply, as- ple. If you choose to carry a knife in Riverside Rotary Club. sault and public order. Kent, even if you feel it’s for your A ShelterBox tent was put up during its meeting at Oakwood House Elsewhere in Kent, metal-detect- own protection, you are likely to get Hotel on Tuesday (May 9) to show how it can help families devastated ing knife arches were placed at the arrested, prosecuted and will re- by national disasters throughout the world. entrances to , and ceive a tough punishment. Posses- ShelterBoxes contain family-sized tents specially designed to train stations, where of- sion of a knife can carry a prison withstand the elements and provide people with temporary shelter until ficers worked with rail enforcement sentence of up to four years, even if they are able to start rebuilding their home. officers to deter offenders who enter it's not used. They contain tools to start repairing and rebuilding homes straight the county carrying weapons. “We continue to seek help from away and transform the shelter into a home with cooking sets, solar Checks were also made on coaches. the public and ask that they report lights and activity sets for children. Officers placed knife arches at the anybody who they see carrying a The Rotary Club had an invited audience of potential new members entrances to schools and discussed knife or other weapon.” and representatives of local charities (including Crossroads Carers, Age the dangers of carrying knives with Call 101 to report anything suspi- UK and Urban Blue Bus). The club hopes to run another similar event pupils. cious, or 999 if it’s an emergency. Al- soon. To find out more about Rotary and the local branch, contact Colin Supermarkets and other retailers ternatively call Kent Crimestoppers Norgate 07817890274 or [email protected] received a visit from officers, and anonymously on 0800 555111.

 

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Maidstone June 2017 15 News downsmail.co.uk X Factor date Princess Royal meets X FACTOR star Louisa Johnson has been lined-up to headline the Big Day Out to be held in Maid- stone in July. The singer, best known for the hit charity shop workers Best Behaviour, will take the stage at on July 1. She announced the gig on Twit- THE PRINCESS Royal received a ter, saying: “Big news! I’ll be head- warm welcome from charity vol- lining the @BigDayOutUK Festival unteers when she visited the Save in Maidstone this July! Can’t wait The Children shop in Maidstone. to see you all there.” A crowd of onlookers waited out- Also on the bill are Diversity, side the store in Union Street to see who won Britain’s Got Talent, and Princess Anne. She was greeted by girl band , who have dignitaries including the Mayor of Kerry Katona in their line-up. Maidstone Cllr Derek Butler, the Louisa (19) won the X Factor in charity’s retail manager Cheryl 2015, after singing with mentor Rita Adams and voluntary shop leader, Ora in the final. Karen Elphick, before going inside to meet shop workers. Assault case The Princess, who has been presi- dent of the charity since the 1970s, A MAIDSTONE woman has been spoke of her appreciation of the con- charged with wounding after an al- tribution the shop makes to the The Princess Royal is greeted by Cheryl Adams, the mayor and Karen Elphick leged stabbing in Shepway. work of the charity at home and Nicola Goslitski (40), of Sutton abroad. loved animals. raised £40,000 for the charity last Road, was arrested after police were She also presented certificates to Among the dozens of onlookers year. called to a report of an assault in Dennis Foad, Brenda Harris and who watched the Princess depart More donations and customers Westmorland Road on Sunday, Sylvia Thomas in honour of their was 88-year-old Betty Warren who are always welcome at the tiny shop April 30. Officers were told that two long service to the charity. had waited for nearly an hour to see which is packed with goods ranging women had made their way to hos- Seven-year-old Daisy, the daugh- her and was given a chair and a cup from clothing, children’s items, pital with arm injuries. They are be- ter of shop volunteer Lora Maxwell, of tea outside the shop. kitchen ware and a collector’s cor- lieved to have known the suspect. presented the Princess Anne with a The charity shop opened in Union ner. There is also a “wanted board” Goslitski has been charged with posy and a card she had made. The Street in 1980 when the building for people who are looking for two counts of wounding with in- card had a picture of a horse be- was bought for £12,000. Thirty- something in particular and the vol- tent and one of possessing a knife cause Daisy had researched on the seven years later, its success contin- unteers will keep an eye out for in a public place. internet and found that the Princess ues, with the volunteers having them.

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Maidstone June 2017 17 News | Elections downsmail.co.uk Tories ‘virtually unbeatable’ MAIDSTONE MPs Helen Whately and Helen Grant are set to be returned to Westminster with virtually unassailable majorities, according to one respected polling service. Electoral Calculus (EC) claims the Stuart Jeffery will stand against Mrs members have actually increased Grant. their predicted majorities since the The Labour Party has re-adopted general election was called by Prime Allen Simpson, although EC sees a Minister Theresa May on April 18. drop of about 4% in support at the The more interesting seat to watch polling booths. is the tussle between Mrs Grant and In Mrs Whately’s Faversham and the Liberal Democrat Emily Fermor. Mid Kent constituency – which was Whilst the EC prediction gives formerly held by Sir Hugh Robert- Mrs Grant a 52.6% majority and an son – her EC projected share of the 87% chance of winning, the pro- poll has risen by almost 3% to jected Lib Dem share has also in- 63.7%. It concludes this gives her a creased by 3%. 95% chance of winning. Mrs Grant said: “Of course, I am Ukip is predicted to come in sec- taking nothing for granted and see ond, but with a much reduced vote it as a privilege to serve this fantas- share, while the Lib Dems are the tic patch.” only other mainstream party likely MP Helen Grant and Liberal Democrat candidate Emily Fermor She has been very vocal in con- to show an increase on June 8. demning the massive house-build- several months ago, aged 23, as the been particularly well-represented Labour is predicted to see a 6% re- ing programme in the borough and Lib Dems sensed a snap election, at Westminster. versal in its fortunes. the knock-on effects for the local has already won admirers. “I have been pretty encouraged Mrs Whately can expect a major- roads. The Oxford history graduate, who by the fact that, out on the doorstep, ity well in excess of 20,000, making Her campaign to save the Maid- attended Invicta Grammar School, people know I am Maidstone born her seat – which is at risk under re- stone barracks from closure and will be attractive to younger voters and bred, went to Invicta and viewed boundary changes – among work on flood defences will almost and those who wished to remain in Primary the very safest in the country. certainly feature in her campaign lit- the EU at last year’s referendum. School and have local interests at Mark McGiffin has been named as erature. She said: “I get the impression heart.” the candidate to stand against Mrs Miss Fermor, who was selected that some voters feel they have not The Green Party has announced Whately for Ukip. The race for THE CANDIDATES MAIDSTONE AND THE WEALD Helen Grant (Conservatives) No 10 is on Emily Fermor (Liberal Democrats) THE official flag went down on the Allen Simpson (Labour Party) race for power at midnight on Fri- Stuart Jeffery (Green Party) day, April 21 – the official start of Yolande Kenward (Ind) the election period – with Parlia- Pam Watts (Ukip) ment being dissolved on May 3. FAVERSHAM & MID KENT This has allowed just over a Helen Whately (Conservatives) month of campaigning in the dash David Naghi (Liberal Democrats) for the line in this snap election. Alasair Gould (Green Party) In the meantime, issues like talks Mark McGiffin (UKIP) with our EU neighbours will take a Michael Desmond (Labour Party) back seat. The serious talking will not resume until June, still leaving us on track to leave on Friday, Greens blast Lib Dems Spooner wins March 29, 2019. GREEN Party candidate Stuart Jef- imise the anti-Tory vote in this safe THE Tories romped home in the Meanwhile, campaigners are fery used his official candidacy an- Conservative seat, but again the Lib borough council by-election. aware time is short, with nomina- nouncement to criticise the Liberal Dems refuse to talk. Denis Spooner, previously the tions from hopefuls needing to be Democrats for not entering an anti- “Frankly I'm disgusted with their chairman of the Bearsted and lodged with returning officers, Tory alliance. attitude, it is almost as if they want Thurnham Society, received a mas- along with a £500 deposit, by May Mr Jeffery (above), who will stand to see the Tories stay in government. sive 73% of the of the 2,357 votes 11. in the Maidstone & the Weald con- “I will continue to fight both for cast on May 4. The tightness on time means the stituency, claims the Lib Dems “re- the people in Maidstone and the en- Cllr Spooner polled 1,713. main parties are also in a race to get fused to talk” about an arrangement. vironment, and I will continue to do Labour’s Tim Licence came second candidates in place and some have He claims the Greens approached politics differently.” with 253 while Liberal Democrat streamlined their normal selection local Lib Dems to discuss an elec- His Lib Dem opponent, Emily Fer- Karen Davis polled 250. procedures, with more candidates toral alliance to maximise the anti- mor, said: “Whilst I welcome sup- Ciaran Oliver, for the Green being chosen centrally. Tory vote in Maidstone. port from all sides, I don’t see the Party, polled 141. Labour, the Conservatives, the Now Mr Jeffery, who has done im- need for some sort of a coalition with SNP and the Lib Dems all say they portant work in highlighting air pol- the Greens. hope to have completed their selec- lution as a result of increased traffic “The fact remains that the Liberal ‘The best deal’ tions within the next week, while in Maidstone, says he is “disgusted” Democrats are the only credible al- SITTING MP for Faversham and smaller parties and independents at the Lib Dems’ refusal to negotiate. ternative to defeat the Tory in this Mid Kent, Helen Whately, sees the may take longer. Mr Jeffery said: “Greens do poli- seat.” general election as a way to As with all races, those taking tics differently. In the 2015 general election, the strengthen Britain’s departure from part have to prove they are going to “Nationally, we approached Green Party polled fewer than 1,400 the European Union. stay the course and already, 12 Labour and Lib Dems to discuss an votes in the constituency but may She said: “It’s a chance to Labour MPs, four Conservatives alliance which would have seen an have a small uplift this time, accord- strengthen (Theresa May’s) hand in and one Lib Dem have said they end to Tory rule. Sadly, they refused. ing to polling website, Electoral Cal- negotiations and get the best will be standing down nationally. “Locally, we did the same to max- culus. deal for the country and for Kent.”

18 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk Elections | News Local vote a boost for Tories THE map of Kent turned blue on May 4, proof that in the post-Brexit referendum climate, residents had bought into the much-chanted Tory mantra of “strong and stable” leadership. The Conservatives took 67 of the blamed the national picture and took 81 seats, leaving the Liberal Democ- comfort there are still elements of PM May ‘will lose rats as an opposition of sorts at core Ukip support in and around county hall, with just six. south Maidstone voters’ confidence’ Perhaps the story of the day was Equally intriguing was Maidstone UKIP announced Mark McGiffin as not the outright dominance of the south where Liberal Democrat Brian the candidate to fight the Faver- victors, but how Ukip became so Clark was incumbent but which the sham & Mid-Kent constituency. completely vanquished. local Tory chairman Paul Cooper Brother of the All 17 of the seats they captured took handsomely. It had been on the TV on Kent County Council against the Tories’ radar since 2013 (when the presenter Carol odds in 2013 were lost. vote collapsed) and spent consider- McGiffin, Mark, It will not have escaped them that able time and effort persuading his (left) grew up in the surging support for the Euro- local support to turn out on the day. the Maidstone sceptic party four years ago had led Mr Cooper’s majority was more than area. He went to to PM David Cameron calling the 300. Shepway In- EU referendum, which he lost. Any threat to the widely-respected fants’ and Junior Mr Cameron resigned and Cllr Gary Cooke at the count Conservative Paulina Stockell – tar- School and moved on to Oldbor- Theresa May – scenting four million crusade for a relief road linking the geted by the Lib Dems’ Brian Mor- ough Manor Secondary School. Ukip votes could be hers – decided A274 and the A20 at junction 8. timer in Maidstone rural west – He studied civil engineering at to win them over with a tough, un- But he had been jittery about failed to materialise at all. Horsted College in Rochester and compromising stance on the UK de- Ukip, wondering what tricks Mr The popular and well thought of works in the construction industry, parture from the EU. Powell had up his sleeve. None, as it Jenny Whittle would be hard act to in places such as the Falkland Yet Ukip’s Eddie Powell had been turned out. follow in the Maidstone rural east Islands, West Africa, Middle East seen as a possible contender in Afterwards, Cllr Cooke said: “I division but Shellina Prendergast and South East Asia. Maidstone south-east, where Gary will continue to work full-time on not only won the seat but did so He said: “I am not convinced that Cooke had beavered away for four behalf of all residents, whether they with a massive 70% of the vote. Theresa May will deliver the Brexit years. In the end, the affable Mr voted for me or not.” Her principal opponent Mark she is talking about. Powell did not even come close. Housing numbers, traffic conges- McGiffin of Ukip – brother of the TV “If Theresa May fails to deliver on Cllr Cooke fought on local issues tion and Leeds-Langley relief road present Carol – was more than 3,000 her promises if elected, she will lose – not least his opposition to Maid- will be top of the agenda from day votes behind, a majority more akin the confidence of voters who will stone Borough Council’s house- one. to a parliamentary contest than a sin- have no other home than Ukip.” building programme and his Ever-jolly Mr Powell, for his part, gle division in a county election. Archbishop’s County council results are in debt warning THE winners and losers in the Kent KCC RESULTS 472 (9%); Paul Wilby Lib Dem 458 County Council’s Malling divisions (9%); Malcolm McKay Lab 397 (8%); on May 5, with few surprises. THE Conservatives swept the Justin Welby has voiced worries Derek Eagle Green 201, (4%). Liberal Democrat stalwart Trudy boards on May 4 by winning all Maidstone Rural North: Paul Carter concerning social issues ahead of but 14 of the 81 seats in 72 divi- Dean was re-elected with a 1,000+ 3,042 (66% - Con hold) ELECTED. the general election on June 8. sions. vote majority and more than half of Others: Martin Cox Lib Dem 530 In a three-page letter to Angli- Kent County Council's new the vote in Malling Central. (11%); Tim Licence Lab 441 (10%); cans and co-signed by Archbishop political make-up is: Elsewhere in Malling, Conserva- Gordon Newton UKip 408 (9%); Cia- of York John Sentamu, he raised Conservatives: 67 tives Sarah Hohler, Peter Home- ran Oliver Green 197 (4%). housing, the NHS and poverty as wood and Matthew Balfour were Liberal Democrats: 6 Maidstone Rural South: Eric Hotson three areas to consider. comfortably returned. Cllr Balfour Labour: 5 2,912 (68% - Con hold) ELECTED. He also warns of an economy captured 74% of the vote in a three- Greens: 1 Others: Derek Mortimer Lib Dem 610, “over-reliant on debt". candidate race. Independent: 2 14%; Stella Randall Lab 398, (9%); Archbishop Welby calls on voters These are the results for the rele- Ukip, which won 17 seats in 2013, to reflect on Christian heritage and vant Malling and Maidstone seats lost all of its KCC members. Caroline Jessel Green 356 (8%). “obligations to future generations" for the poll on May 4. Maidstone Rural West: Paulina while calling on political leaders to Malling Central: Trudy Dean 2,576 Maidstone Central: Dan Daley Stockell 2,351 (49%) (Con hold) "renew and re-imagine" the coun- (52%- Lib Dem hold) ELECTED. Oth- 3,540 (22%- Lib Dem hold) ELECTED. ELECTED. Others: Brian Mortimer Lib try’s values. ers: Dougie Dick Con 1,535 (35%); Rob Bird 3,140 (20%- Lib Dem hold) Dem 1,716, 36%; Martin Lack UKip, The letter also covers the need for Sarah Palmer Lab 239 (5%); Helen ELECTED. Others: Alan Bartlett Con (7%); Richard Coates Lab 259 (5%); home-building, the NHS and the Brown UKip 182 (4%). 2,746 (17%); Graham Jarvis Con Geoffrey Wilkinson Green 140 (3%). government's Brexit negotiations. Malling North: Sarah Hohler 2,512 2,246 (14%); Keith Adkinson Lab Maidstone South: Paul Cooper 1,872 It says the election "is being con- (65%- Con hold) ELECTED. Others: 1,363 (9%); Paul Harper Lab 1,319 (42% - Con gain from Lib Dems) tested against the backdrop of deep Wayne Mallard Lab 763 (20%); (8%); Pamela Watts UKip 647 (4%); ELECTED. Others: Brian Clark Lib Dem and profound questions of identity. Richard Selkirk Lib Dem 411 (11%); Stuart Jeffery Green Party 470 (3%); 1,561 (35%); Michael Hogg UKip 418 "Opportunities to renew and re- Howard Porter Green 158 (4%). Donna Greenan Green 444 (3%). (9%); Patrick Coates Labour 371 imagine our shared values as a Malling North East: Peter Maidstone North East: Ian (8%); Ian McDonald Green 101 country and a Homewood 3,208 (69% - Con hold) Chittenden 2,232 (50% - Lib Dem (2%); Yolande Kenward Ind 82 (2%); only come around every few gen- ELECTED. Others: Darren Nicholls Lib hold) ELECTED. (Cheryl Taylor Maggio Gary Butler Ind 46 (1%). erations. Dem 620 (13%); Lola Ayeni Lab 594 Con 1,411 (32%); Joanna Burns Lab Maidstone South East: Gary Cooke "If our shared British values are (13%); Steve Jackson Green 217 332, (7%); Nick Goddard UKip 310 1496 (52% - Con hold) ELECTED. to carry the weight of where we (5%). (7%); Belinda Bassett Green 148 Others: Eddie Powell UKip 543 now stand and the challenges Malling Rural East: Matthew Balfour (3%). (19%); Dan Wilkinson Lab 496 ahead of us, they must have at their 3,230 (74% - Con hold) ELECTED. Maidstone Rural East: Shellina (17%); David Naghi Lib Dem 247 core, cohesion, courage and stabil- Others: Nicola Gibb Lib Dem 663 Prendergast 3,482, (70% - Con hold) (9%); Steven Cheeseman Green 107 ity." (15%); Jill Darby Green 450 (10%). ELECTED. Others: Mark McGiffin UKip (4%).

Maidstone June 2017 19 News downsmail.co.uk Truckers fined Cancer survivor’s message AN AWARD-winning spa owner is working to raise funds and awareness of women’s cancer after winning her own battle against the disease. Wendy Mullings, who runs Exquisite Spa at the Mercure Great Danes Hotel, , was diagnosed with gynaecological cancer three on just one day years ago. “I had a scan three months before and was told I was clear”, she said. “But in that time, the tumour had got very large. It was a very fast POLICE enforcement of a lorry ban do think of equal importance is the growing cancer and I was in stage 3.” from Langley to the M20 via Leeds inadequacy of the fines that police She hopes that sharing village was carried out on just a sin- are allowed to issue. her experience will help gle day in 2016, Downs Mail has “These are treated by lorry opera- other women beat the learned. tors as a cost of doing business and disease. She said: “Please Seven notices were issued on May little by way of deterrent. But it fur- be aware of the signs and 25, 2016, with six drivers each pay- ther highlights the need for a Leeds- don’t leave it. Within three ing a £50 fine while another was Langley relief road.” months I had almost got to summonsed for ignoring the weight A spokesman for Kent Police said: stage 4, when there is no restriction. One ticket has been is- “Officers will continue to enforce hope. We cannot ignore it.” sued in 2017. this weight restriction as and when Mum-of-two Wendy is The disclosures by Kent Police their duties allow, and Kent Police supporting the Eve Appeal, were little surprise to Leeds parish encourages residents of Leeds vil- which raises awareness and councillor Lesley Martin, who lage to report details of any vehicle funding into five counts an average of three lorries an seen committing an offence as and gynaecological cancers. She hour flouting the ban when she when they see this take place. is organising a Time for Tea fun event at the spa from 2-5pm on Monday, takes part in LorryWatch surveys. “Kent Police is aware of residents’ May 22, in aid of the charity. The event will include afternoon tea, cakes, a In March, hopes were raised that concerns, and officers will continue bake-off, big prizes and spa treatment tasters. Admission is £5 and Kent Police had decided to clamp to patrol the area in line with their booking is essential. Call 01622 880639 for details. down on truckers ignoring the ban other duties for the rest of the Maid- After surgery and chemotherapy, Wendy is now in remission. when a lorry was pulled in at the en- stone district.” She said: “I had 11 hours of surgery at the Royal Marsden Hospital. The trance to Leeds Castle. But it was a Borough councillor Gill Fort said: whole cancer was removed and I was treated at the oncology department one-off. “If the police don’t stop them and at Maidstone Hospital, where they were wonderful.” County councillor Gary Cooke re- hand out a meaningful fine, they’ll Wendy’s diagnosis came shortly after her daughter, Zoe, gave birth to a cently pressed the chief constable of carry on coming through.” daughter, Felicity. Wendy, who is pictured with her grandchildren, said: “I Kent to do more to enforce the On May 25 last year, police also is- thought I would never see my granddaughter grow up. My family carried 17tonne weight restriction on the sued three more notices for drivers me through the dark moments. Now Zoe has had another baby, Edgar, B2163. He said: “Seven tickets is exceeding their hours, for which one who I might never have seen. I am very lucky.” hardly any, given the frequency with payment of £200 and two payments which they thunder through Leeds. I of £300 were made.

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Maidstone June 2017 21 News downsmail.co.uk Maidstone’s baby boom Gymnast James wins A RECORD 490 babies were born at Maidstone Birth Centre last year - up 81 on the previous 12 months.. The 20% hike in new-borns at the a Euro bronze medal birthing centre is set against a back- drop of 5,742 deliveries by the health A GYMNAST from a Maidstone club has won a bronze medal at the care trust from April to March 2017. Sarah Gregson, consultant midwife 2017 Gymnastics European Championships in Cluj, Romania. for Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW), said: “We are de- James Hall (21), from Pegasus lighted.The increase we have seen Gymnastics Club in Farleigh Hill, shows that more women are choos- Tovil, won in the all-around cate- ing to have their babies at the centre, gory. and we hope this will increase even James, who was recently crowned further.” the 2017 English All-around Cham- The centre, which opened in the pion, had to perform six pieces. grounds of Maidstone Hospital at He began on the floor and pom- Barming in 2011, features two mel and was consistent across the birthing rooms, four post-natal rings, vault and parallel bars. rooms and double beds that allow Finishing on one of his strongest partners to stay. pieces, the high bar, he went for Head of midwifery at MTW Jenny broke with multiple daring release Cleary said research showed for and catch elements. women with an uncomplicated It paid off, as he scored 84.664 be- hind Russia’s Artur Dalaloyan in sil- pregnancy, birth centres are proving James Hall is congratulated by a member of his team a popular choice. “Mums are also ver (85.498) and multiple Olympic more likely to feel happier about medallist Oleg Verniaiev (UKR) in when it matters on the biggest stage could do and I can’t describe the their birth experience,” she added. gold (85.866). of my career. That’s just crazy, it’s feeling having done that. MTW’s maternity services were Afterwards James said: “I’m strug- hard to get my head around, to be “I thought to myself beforehand, recently rated the best in the coun- gling to speak right now; I can’t be- honest. ‘I’ve qualified third and I know I can try, following a review by NHS Eng- lieve what’s just happened. I’ve “At my first major championships, be better, nothing is impossible go land. performed my best-ever gymnastics I wanted to show the world what I for it’ and that’s what I did.” Arson charge A MAN from Maidstone has been charged with arson after a fire was started deliberately in James What- man Way, near the town’s football ground, the Gallagher Stadium. The blaze broke out at about 5.20pm on Sunday, April 30, and damaged a flat. James Clarke (79) was arrested following the incident. Kent Police and Kent Fire and Res- cue Service attended and the fire was put out at about 6pm. Mr Clarke, of James Whatman Way, was arrested and later charged with arson being Bike fest is hailed a success on two wheels reckless as to whether life would be CYCLISTS and those thinking of 1897. For the second year, the Cycling supporters at Barming endangered. He appeared at taking to the saddle enjoyed a event was supported by Maidstone School took their bikes to school to Chatham Magistrates’ Court, and participating in this year’s Borough Council and the cycle help promote the festival, which was remanded in custody. He will Maidstone Cyclefest. training team from Kent County was held in the Jubilee Square in appear next before Maidstone The event as organised by Council will also be offering advice. Maidstone on May 13. Crown Court on May 30. Maidstone Cycle Campaign Forum Cllr David Burton, Maidstone Angelo Martinez, from Maidstone and aims to raise awareness of Council’s transport committee Cycle Campaign Forum said: “Our Thief in court cycle routes in the area, proposed chairman, said: “We need to aim is to improve cycling conditions A MAN has been charged with bur- new ones and safe cycling. encourage people to experience in Maidstone and encourage glaries at newsagents in King Street Participants had the chance to the freedom and health benefits people to take up cycling as part of and Week Street, Maidstone. get their bike security marked and associated with cycling and are a healthy and environmentally- Rohan Douglas (30), from Middle- organisers laid on a display of working to improve the borough’s friendly lifestyle, and as a practical sex, allegedly stole cash and ciga- ancients cylces, one dating back to walking and cycling routes.” alternative to cars for short trips.” rettes on February 6 and April 19. He appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on two charges of burglary and was remanded in Appeal after neighbour stops burglary custody. TWO men are being hunted by nearby fields. One man is described Police are appealing for wit- Kent Police after a botched bur- as 5ft 10ins. nesses. Anyone with information is Assault arrest glary in Maidstone. He was believed to be wearing a asked to call Kent Police appeals A WOMAN was arrested after po- It happened in Pitt Road between blue jacket and grey trousers and line on 01622 604100 or email lice were called to a home in London 5.30pm and 6.30pm on April 21, had a scarf covering his face. The west.division.media.appeals@Kent. Road, Maidstone, on April 19. A when patio doors to the house were second suspect is described as pnn.police.uk, with ref man was taken to hospital with damaged as the would-be thieves wearing a baseball cap. YY/010188/17. minor injuries and was later relased. tried to break in. Officers are linking a blue Vaux- Alternatively, call Kent A 19-year-old woman was arrested They were disturbed by a neigh- hall Astra found nearby, in Trellyn Crimestoppers, anonymously, on on suspicion of assault. bour and fled over a fence and into Close, Maidstone, to this incident. 0800 555 111.

22 Maidstone June 2017 Maidstone June 2017 23 News downsmail.co.uk Three jailed in drugs case THREE men have been jailed for dealing drugs in Maidstone. Christopher Tregunno (26), of him talking to Tregunno on the Fairmeadow, Maidstone, was phone. among the group who has been This conversation led the officer sent to prison. to believe a drug deal was about to Shalmuwn Hall (23), of Crickle- take place, so he followed Tre- wood, London, was sentenced to gunno and saw him meet Hall. 12 months in jail after appearing at As Hall was about to hand over Maidstone Crown Court. a package, he noticed the off-duty He had previously pleaded PC and attempted to run. How- guilty to being concerned in the ever, the officer caught up Hall and supply of cannabis and possessing he was arrested alongside Tre- cannabis with intent to supply. gunno. He was sentenced alongside Tre- Detective Sergeant Suzanne Bas- gunno, who was jailed for 10 ford, the investigating officer, said: Guilty: Shalmuwn Hall, Kieron Murphy and Christopher Tregunno months after pleading guilty to the “Hall came to Maidstone with the same charges. in five weeks for drug offences later, this time after security staff sole intention of supplying drugs Another man, Kieron Murphy committed in the town centre. reported seeing him drop a large and, together with Tregunno and (21), of no fixed address, was jailed He was first arrested in Septem- bag of pills in Market Buildings. Murphy, they would have ex- on March 27 for two and a half ber 2016 – two days after Murphy Officers attended and a search of ploited vulnerable people for their years after pleading guilty to two was found in possession of one Hall uncovered a large amount of own gain – damaging numerous charges of possession with intent gram of cocaine and a further six clear bags used to supply drugs. lives in the process. to supply cocaine and cannabis. half grams of the substance. Analy- He was also found to be in posses- “This is something that we and The court heard how Hall had sis of Murphy’s phone showed he sion of £1,000 of cash. the courts take a dim view on and travelled from London to supply had recently texted Hall to request Hall was arrested again in Octo- I welcome the sentences passed by drugs in Maidstone and that he was “six halves and one gram”. ber 2016, after a plain-clothed offi- the court on all three of these of- arrested by Kent Police three times Hall was arrested again four days cer in the town centre overheard fenders.” Charity post MAIDSTONE-based charity British Police warn of rogue traders Wireless for the Blind Fund is look- POLICE are investigating after an needing work done such as roofing them to leave and come back at a ing for a volunteer whose role will elderly woman in Maidstone paid to or paving work to obtain two or time convenient to you and when be to get in touch with the people it have her roof restored, but was ap- three quotes from reputable compa- you've had a chance to ask someone supports in Kent. proached a couple of days later to be nies to ensure they are paying a fair to be with you. You can also contact The charity provides specially told it needed more work. price. Trading Standards with their vehicle adapted audio equipment for visu- They have offered advice to peo- “There are many reputable com- details, company name, contact de- ally impaired people and the vol- ple who fear they may be targeted. panies out there, especially on the in- tails and any other information. unteer will be based at its head Rogue traders often cold call at ternet, which can be found easily  Do not pay anyone for work be- office in Albion Place. people’s homes in order to offer and I’d always encourage people to fore it is carried out, and certainly The role will involve making fol- services or goods. They sometimes carry out their own research rather never go to the bank to draw out low-up calls to the people who overcharge for unnecessary work, than to accept work from door cash if a lift is offered by the people have the charity’s radios to make damage property deliberately to get knockers.” who knock on the door. sure they are getting on with them money, leave work unfinished and Crime prevention advice is avail- Anyone with information about and if they have any questions. The intimidate people to get money. able on the Kent Police website and rogue traders can call Kent Police ap- Inspector Jody Gagan-Cook of the includes: peals line on 01622 604100 or email role is flexible as volunteers can Maidstone Community Safety Unit  If you have any doubts about [email protected] commit as much time as they like, said: “I would encourage anyone whether the caller is genuine, ask nn.police.uk but ideally for two hours a week. All out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed. Contact Simon Par- sons on [email protected] or Trucker was electrocuted at work 07545 230017. A LORRY driver from Maidstone skips on their lorries. was electrocuted when the 10 skips He told Maidstone Coroner’s Rugby faller he stacked on his trailer hit 11,000- Court he did not know why THE air ambulance was called to volt cables. Richard had piled up 10. Maidstone Rugby Club after a Richard Giles (37) died from a Rules say drivers should not woman suffered a serious fall. heart attack when the current tore work within three metres of power The patient was airlifted to through the truck. lines. King’s College Hospital’s neuro- He was moving the skips across Richard’s load in November put logical unit in London. a site in Dartford and had asked to him within 2.7metres. She is believed to have suffered leave work early, an inquest heard. The ground had just been re- an “accidental injury” at the Mote Mr Giles was a former strong- paired using Tarmac, raising it by Park site. man champion, weighed 20 stone two metres in areas. and had been a trucker for 20 Keith Barrett, of Fieldfisher years. He was also a father of two. lawyers, is pursuing a civil claim. Driver injured His widow Jodie (37) said: “Po- Richard Giles with his wife Jodie He said: “No one should die at A DRIVER needed treatment after lice even asked me if I thought he “Richard loved that job. He work.” his car hit a wall near Maidstone had been trying to commit suicide. would never have knowingly put The Health and Safety Executive Prison. This is ridiculous and very upset- himself in danger.” have launched a criminal investi- County Road was closed as fire- ting. Fleet Skips boss Richard May gation into Mr Giles’s death while fighters helped to release the man, “Life was good, our children said his drivers were told that they the inquest jury found he died by who was trapped in his car. were doing well in school. could stack a maximum of four misadventure.

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Maidstone June 2017 25 News downsmail.co.uk Insurance firm plans closures Customers find cafe A SECOND group of workers in Maidstone are under threat of re- dundancy this week. Swinton Insurance has announced and gift shop closed 900 roles in the UK are at risk as it “reviews its branch network to meet changing customer demands”. THE owner of a Maidstone coffee shop has apologised to customers with Industry publication Insurance Age said the broker was reviewing meal bookings who arrived to find the business had closed. the size and structure of its branch A notice on Harper’s Café and network as 90 per cent of its cus- Gift Shop in Market Buildings, tomers now buy insurance online or Maidstone, says that the business, over the phone. bought by music composer Frank A total of 84 branches are under Goodhind in June 2016, has ceased review – the Maidstone branch is in trading. King Street. Responding to a complaint on the Swinton will now begin consulta- TripAdvisor website from a disap- tion with all employees affected by pointed customer, the firm said: the proposals, adding that where “We can only apologise for your in- possible, staff would be deployed convenience and disappointment. into other parts of the business. Unfortunately, we have had to These branch changes are in addi- close. tion to the 130 closures announced in “We are working with Groupon February last year. to inform all customers who have Gilles Normand, chief executive of booked through them, and also Swinton, said: “We are reshaping contact those who have booked di- our distribution model to ensure rectly. This is a very difficult time that we continue to meet the chang- trate on her business commitments closed. for us, but we thank you for your ing needs of our customers. in . They spoke to the owner the fol- understanding.” “This change is difficult for all col- After taking over, Mr Goodhind, lowing day and rebooked for April Situated next door to the Royal leagues, especially those who are di- who is from Wrotham, and has a 29, but again had a wasted journey, Star Arcade entrance, Harper’s rectly impacted by the proposals, background in the music industry, as there was a closed notice on the but is vital if we are to remain com- with its distinctive décor and style , described it as his dream job. His door. petitive in a challenging insurance has been based in the town for vision for the business was to ex- The review said: “Disappointed market. more than 22 years, selling unusual tend the menu with artisan breads not to get our already paid-for af- “While branches continue to be an gifts and artefacts, as well as coffee, and cakes and to continue to pro- ternoon tea, but more so to have important part of our multi-channel cakes and snacks. vide a platform for local artists and two wasted journeys and after- business model, we need to ensure The business was taken over by crafts people. noons because no one bothered to that we can interact with customers Mr Goodhind in June 2016, after it Using the name sueverett, contact us, on either occasion.” whenever, and however, they was placed on the market by Kaye Rochester, a reviewer said on Trip- Customers with Groupon gift choose. It therefore makes sense to Joy. Advisor that they had pre-booked vouchers for the café are advised to continually review how we operate She had owned it for eight years an afternoon tea through Groupon contact [email protected] or to ensure Swinton remains fit for the but decided to sell up to concen- but arrived to find the café was call 0203 5100444. future.” It comes as rival insurance broker Towergate announced 133 people Top marks for are at risk of redundancy in its Maid- stone and Leeds Airport West of- childcare pair fices. IT HAS been a stunning spring for The company is restructuring its Loulous Childcare in Hillary Road, central finance processing teams. Maidstone, which has been classed by Ofsted as “outstanding” in all Repeat offence four categories and has won its A REPEAT offender who stole from campaign for planning permission. stores and service stations in the Loulous, run by husband and Maidstone area has been jailed. wife team Ross and Louise Hamp- Michael Ian Scott (46), from Wallis ton at their home, was classed as Oak Avenue, admitted seven counts Air force band at castle concert good by Ofsted in 2015 and now of shoplifting. wins top marks in: effectiveness of The court heard that Scott stole THE Central Band of the Royal Air Force will perform at this year’s Leeds leadership and management; qual- food worth £75from a shop in Wal- Castle Classical Concert on Saturday, July 8. ity of teaching, learning and assess- lis Avenue, 11 bottles of washing liq- Now based at Royal Air Force Northolt, the Central Band remains at ment; personal development, uid valued at £70 and 12 jars of the forefront of state occasions such as the Changing of the Guard. It behaviour and welfare; and out- coffee from a store in Loose Road. participated in high-profile events including the Queen’s Diamond comes for children. He returned the next day and stole Jubilee celebrations, the Royal Wedding and the 2012 London Olympics. Ofsted reports: “The childminder more coffee and meat, worth £75. He The band will be conducted by Wing Commander Piers Morrell. provides an extremely exciting also took food worth £112 from a Event director Richard Millward said: “It is a real coup to have them range of resources and activities to service station in St Saviour’s Road, join us, and they typify the theme that runs through motivate and interest children. Maidstone, between April 17 and the programme this year. Audiences who have been coming for many Children become highly engaged in April 20. Baby milk and meat worth years will remember we traditionally used to start the concerts with a play and make rapid progress in £23 and £70 of food were also taken military band – and there is none better than this.” their learning.” from the same service station on Also performing will be the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted Loulous was visited by Maid- April 21 and 24. Scott was jailed for by John Rigby, singing sensations the Patriot Girls, soprano Katie Bird stone Council planning and, with 150 days at Medway Magistrates’ and tenor Anthony Flaum, while the Aero Legends will be providing the parental support, has been granted Court on April 27. He must also pay fly-by in a 1940s Spitfire. The evening will end with a fireworks finale. permission for up to 12 children at a £115 victim surcharge. any one time.

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Maidstone June 2017 29 News downsmail.co.uk River festival plan scuppered

MAIDSTONE’S popular river fes- stone, but this has been ignored.” thing and we had even lined up vol- idents and visitors to the River Med- tival has been cancelled – with the Mark Smurthwaite, secretary of unteers from McDonald’s to clear way.” blame laid at the door of the bor- the Medway River Users’ Associa- rubbish,” added Mr Smurthwaite. He added: “If the organisers are ough council. tion, added: “People in the council “We are at a loss as to why the keen on having a festival, a change Organisers say the council’s “in- do not want the festival. council doesn’t like the event. It cer- of date could have been an option. competence” in arranging repair “I don’t know why, because it pro- tainly doesn’t cause trouble, even This would have also given the or- work, which has closed the river- motes the town. People come from though people are drinking by the ganisers time to refine their plans, front’s towpath until late August, is far and wide for the event.” river all day long. But we are already submitting all necessary licence ap- behind the decision to axe the event, The free Maidstone River Festival working on next year’s event and we plications and working with Maid- held at the end of July for the last 47 was set to include raft races, live will be back big-time.” stone’s Safety Advisory Group to years, with the occasional exception. music and an illuminated boat pa- Maidstone Council’s Matt Roberts ensure people can enjoy a safe and The Boaters say the rade, followed by fireworks. The said: “It is unfortunate that the River well-run event in the surroundings dedicated organising committee are charity raft races had already raised Festival organisers have decided not of the improved river path. frustrated by the lack of vision by the £1,500, which will be returned to the to hold the event and I am surprised “MBC is happy to provide guid- borough council, adding: “The teams that had paid the entry fee. by the comment that this is due to ance to the organisers should they council has a plan that highlights the “The festival would not have cost the towpath works; these improve- wish to arrange a date change or use of the river to promote Maid- Maidstone Borough Council any- ments will be of great benefit to res- plan a River Festival for next year.” Police cadets on parade MORE than 100 young people have new recruits. Applications for the passed their Kent Police cadet Volunteer Police Cadet Scheme training. opened last year for young people Assistant Chief Constable Tony aged between 13 to 17-years-old, Blaker and Police and Crime from all communities across Kent, Commissioner Matthew Scott including those vulnerable to crime congratulated the cadets at a and social exclusion. parade at Kent Police Training ACC Blaker and PCC Matthew School. Scott are pictured here with new Cadet ambassador, and cadets Amy Carter and Chloe Paralympian ski guide, Charlotte Newbury as well as Charlotte Evans Evans, attended to congratulate the MBE.

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30 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Can council stop Decades of loyal service TWO of Downs Mail’s sales team have been celebrating two decades with the business – in the same year the newspaper turned 20 years old. Jo-Anne Brown station closures? and Natasha Bastone both THE threat to rural stations posed There is considerable housing de- joined Mail by a shake-up of rail services has velopment underway or planned at Publications Ltd in prompted the county council to Paddock Wood, Marden, Staple- 2007. step in. hurst, Headcorn and Pluckley, To mark their The shift in services proposed in which will require the continuation achievement, a government consultation ahead of the present service levels in both company of Southeastern’s franchise going peak and off-peak periods. Chairman Claire out to tender would put stations in- “Therefore, the new franchise Procter presented cluding Headcorn, , should commit to these service lev- the pair with a Marden, Pluckley and Paddock els without any change in either the bunch of flowers Wood at risk. frequency or the stopping pattern and engraved Such is the concern that smaller on this section of route. pens. stations would be side-lined by a “As Ashford and most East Kent Jo and Natasha are pictured here on Bearsted Green, just a stone’s faster direct service to London - stations already have a high speed throw from the Mail Publications Ltd offices. suggested by the Department of service, there is, in any event, less Transport - that 11,500 Weald vil- imperative to speed up this main- lagers and their representatives line route.” have signed a petition opposing the The consultation period was due Aled is back at Leeds Castle idea. to end on May 23. ALED Jones has been lined up to host the Leeds Castle Classical They say the move would see Former London-bound com- Concert this summer. It is the second year running that he will be half-hourly services replaced by muter Martin Chambers said: “It presenting the event, this year on Saturday, July 8. just one an hour from 2019 and this will change people’s lives. If they Event director Richard Millward said: “He will be acting more as could affect the long-term viability pay hard cash to come and move to the event host this year, interacting with the performers on stage of less busy stations. this part of Kent and then their se- and with the audience.” In its response to the Department vice is taken away, that will be dis- Aled swept to fame in the 80s as one of the world's most success- of Transport, Kent County Council astrous. ful boy sopranos and for the Christmas hit Walking In The Air from states: “The Ashford to London via “This would be distastrous, too, the cartoon The Snowman. Tonbridge service would need to for communities, towns and vil- The concert line-up includes Royal Philharmonic Orchestra con- retain its current stopping pattern lages along this liune and could po- ducted by John Rigby, singing sensations the Patriot Girls, soprano to reflect the growth in demand at tentially lead to the closure of Katie Bird and tenor Anthony Flaum. intermediate stations on this route. stations altogether.”

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Maidstone June 2017 31 News downsmail.co.uk Butchers shuts Mike devoted to saving THE shop that has housed ’s independent butcher for 60 years has closed. Guy Lister had run the family business, GB Lister, for the past 11 abandoned terrapins years and said personal reasons were behind his decision to shut the LEGIONS of abandoned pet tur- of the UK. She said: “I feel sorry for store on The Square. tles are living in our lakes and them but I wish we had more Lenham Parish Council clerk rivers where they become prone to room.” Margo McFarlane said the business disease and starvation and are a Mike said: “People hand them in would be greatly missed but added threat to wildlife. because they can’t look after them the Co-op was not neceassarily to Bought as children’s pets while and fishermen find them in lakes blame. She said: “This is a pattern brightly-coloured babies no bigger and rivers. I have just got one from being repeated in rural communi- than a 50p coin, they grow to din- Bluewater – someone found it ties. Locals need to spend money in these outlets if we are to retain the ner-plate size and are dumped by walking on the side of the road. A diversity of outlets in this isolated owners who mistakenly think it is lot are dumped in Mote Park. area.” kind to release them into the wild. “People think terrapins are lovely Hundreds have ended up being presents for children. But they cared for at the Turtle Sanctuary at grow to about 40cm and can live Church trail Staplehurst, which was set up by for 30 years. Some people get rid of THE hidden ’s Mike Butcher in his back garden. them because they have got too big Parish Church is set to become bet- Mike, pictured, now has 1,000 or because they think they smell.” ter known through a Heritage Trail. from someone on Facebook who The Grade 1 listed church, in Mill terrapins, or freshwater turtles, in was giving it away. I found they Dumped in the wild, the crea- tanks and ponds behind his home tures can become diseased, blind Street, boasts a fascinating history – were being abandoned worldwide. as a collegiate church, built by Arch- in Green Hill and hopes to raise I took in more and I started build- and deformed through poor diet money to set up a charity so that he and conditions, and can strip a wa- bishop William Courtenay in 1395. ing ponds. There are three large In 1549 the college was dissolved can rescue even more. ponds and tanks in the garden and terway of fish, newts and frogs, and The 37-year-old has been fasci- even young waterfowl. and the church became the Parish tanks in every room. Church of Maidstone, serving time nated with terrapins since child- Mike said: “I don’t re-home “My dream is to build a big sanc- as a garrison church for the Royal hood when he was a fan of the them. I just want to look after them. tuary, but we need more donations. West Kent Regiment.On Saturday, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He To register as a charity we need We run a sanctuary. We take them June 10, a summer lunch is being began taking them in six years ago £5,000 a year and we are lucky to them in and keep them until they held from 12.30-1pm at 12 Corn- when he became concerned about get £40.” die of old age. We only ask for a do- flower Close, to raise people dumping them. Mike’s mum Denise (62) helps to nation.” To make a donation go to funds. Tickets are £20. To book, call Mike , who is looking for crowd- care for the turtles, which arrive www.justgiving.com/crowdfund- Mary Shaw on 01622 631368. funding, said: “I got the first one from throughout Kent and the rest ing/denise-butcher Pair convicted of Liam’s recycling prize LIAM Woodcock (10) has turned his love of art and the environment into a winning design to encourage residents to recycle our food waste. His artwork will play a major part in a promotional campaign on the side roof repair scam of Arriva buses across the borough, following a “significant decline in the number of residents placing their food bin out each week for collection”, TWO men who preyed on a dis- ported a van at a service station in according to Maidstone Council. abled pensioner to steal his bank Linton Road, Coxheath and Chap- As well as supporting cards and cash while he was in- man and King were arrested. About the drive to keep specting their roof repairs have £1,000 was found hidden under a households converting been sentenced. mat in the driver’s foot well. their left-overs into Kalup Chapman (26) was jailed Both men were at Maidstone compost, Liam, from for a year after Crown Court for sentencing , where Staplehurst Primary tricking his way Chapman, formerly of Sitting- School, bagged himself into the elderly bourne, was jailed after admitting an iPad Mini 2 and man’s home by the burglary. King (26), formerly of £1,000 for his classmates. claiming his Teynham, received a three-month Head Cathy Farthing roof needed re- sentence, suspended for 12 months, said: “The children were pairing. in connection with burglary and all very excited about the The man – handling stolen goods. He had de- competition and this was who was in his nied the charges but was sentenced reflected in the wonderful 80s – had paid following a trial. entries.” an initial £120 after being told by Detective Sergeant Suzanne Bas- More than 1,500 Chapman (above) and his accom- ford said: “Chapman and King youngsters from 15 plice Samuel King that a fascia was picked on their victim because they primary schools entered the competition, with Rebecca Judd, of St John’s damaged at his Wolfe Road home. knew he was vulnerable. Thank- Primary School, , taking second place. The court heard that as part of the fully, some quick thinking by an of- The council’s recycling team has been busy battling to keep the public distraction burglary on January 19, ficer led to their arrests less than an recycling their food waste through competitions and school visits and at 2015, one of the pair asked the man hour after the crime had happened. supermarkets, where they have been giving away kitchen caddys. to go outside and check the work. “Sadly, criminals sometimes tar- Education officer Nicola Toulson said: “As well as launching this But when he did so, both men dis- get the more vulnerable members competition, we visited schools with a theatre show called At Home with appeared along with their van. The of our communities. Their crimes the Caddys, that played to over 3,000 people on the two-week tour. The resident then found that money and can have a devastating impact on response to the campaign has been brilliant and we are thrilled with the bank cards had been taken. the victims. However, by working winning design.” However, 20 minutes after a de- together we can and do stop them, Liam is pictured with actor Ant Payne, who plays Captain Caddy in the scription of the suspects and their so please keep your eyes peeled and council's 50-minute promotional show. vehicle was circulated, an officer re- report any suspicious behaviour.”

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Maidstone June 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk Health Measures to avert GP crisis PLANS to avert a crisis due to a shortage of GPs in the area have been revealed to Downs Mail. This follows publication of a which includes Maidstone and “This will provide opportunities study which shows 40% of GPs in Malling. for greater innovation and for clini- Kent plan to leave general practice Dr Bob Bowes, chairman of the cians to develop their skills and we in the next five years. budget-holding, GP-led NHS West are hopeful this will attract new re- Already many patients are in dif- Kent Clinical Commissioning cruits to the profession. ficulties. A local NHS consultation Group, told Downs Mail the survey “The CCG is developing initia- meeting was told by a member of results were concerning but not tives to analyse workforce gaps for Maidstone Hospital A&E staff that surprising. It reflected the national GPs and practice staff, promote pressures on the department were scene. training and education, and ensure largely caused because the public He said: “West Kent CCG is cur- there is a sustainable and flexible either could not register with a GP rently undertaking a full audit of workforce to meet future popula- or a timely appointment was im- GP premises to decide where fu- tion needs. possible. ture local investment is needed to “Other projects to reduce pres- In neighbouring Swale the Iwade ensure premises are fit for purpose sures on GPs, and make sure pa- practice should have five GPs – and one vacancy and 40% are short of and patients can get more tailored tients across our area have access to there are none. nurses. local care. the right care in the right place, in- A study by Kent Local Medical This is at a time when the Kent “We are also looking at how we clude training medical assistants to Committee shows most of the 40% population is increasing rapidly – can provide care differently by process paperwork more effec- planning to leave will be retiring, and the number of people over 65 sharing services across a number of tively to free-up GP time, promot- and there are not enough young re- will grow by 25% in the next few GP practices working in ‘clusters’, ing recruitment and retention cruits to replace them. years. or combining GP and hospital serv- schemes and increasing the use of Of the 250 Kent surgeries sur- About one third of the respond- ices as we are proposing in Eden- technology for patients to book and veyed, half already have at least ing surgeries are in West Kent, bridge. cancel appointments online.” CPR scheme SECAmb is inviting schools and Paul fighting back after heart disease community groups to register their interest in Restart a Heart – a CPR A HEADCORN man who had a awareness campaign. heart attack at the age of 43, is The trust is keen to hear from joining the fight against heart schools and community groups disease by taking on the Nightrider aged Year 6 and upwards inter- London cycling challenge in aid of ested in taking part and from the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Paul Turpin will pedal the city healthcare professionals who could streets on June 10 and 11 to Paul Turpin help deliver the training. Email highlight that heart disease can [email protected]. cycling with his strike anyone at any time. daughter Gracie The director of a London (11), and nine- Death rates architects’ firm, Paul’s demanding year-old son life often led to anxiety. Last MORTALITY levels in Maidstone Hendrix and Tunbridge Wells hospitals are September, he woke up one being closely monitored because morning with chest pains from a stone in weight and I feel good, but been training at weekends and recently they have been higher than heart attack and had to have two mentally it remains challenging. taking my children out on the bikes, anticipated. stents in his coronary arteries. Support in the professional which has been really nice.” workplace is so important. It’s no The Nightrider London is part of A new medical director (Dr P. Paul said: “The hardest part of moving on with my life has been to longer an option for me to take on a series of Nightrider charity bike Maskell) has been appointed and find a new way of coping with the the stress burden or lead the rides. Cyclists in London ride hospital mortality is his priority pressures of my job. I have 25 years lifestyle I used to.” overnight along one of two road focus. Mortality rates are not a sure of professional life left, so I need to Paul has signed up for the routes – the 100km and a 50km reflection of care provided – but completely change how I balance Nightrider London 50K challenge ride, both starting and finishing at can be a warning sign. things. Finding my ‘new normal’ is with his partner, Kathleen Pratt. Lee Valley VeloPark. mentally really difficult. He said: “I love London and I love To support Paul’s fundraising, see Anorexia help “Six months on, I have lost two it even more in the light nights. I’ve his justgiving page. AN all-age Eating Disorder Service is to be operated in the area, often in a patient’s home if appropriate. The age group most at risk is 15- Drive to improve urgent care 24, with anorexia the third most common long-term illness among A DRIVE to improve urgent and for: “front-door clinical screening” A plan for support for care homes teenagers. It is the most common emergency care in the area is to be in A&E departments and measures should be complete by July. cause of death among young emphasised by the local budget- to support patient flow; special The role of urgent treatment cen- women in this age group. holding GP-led NHS West Kent mental health care in A&Es; sup- tres across West Kent is being re- Clinical Commissioning Group. port for care homes; the role of ur- viewed. But the group sees meeting NHS gent treatment centres. NHS expects 40% of the More cost cuts England’s expectations as “a signif- Some GP streaming does occur in country to benefit from access to THE local health budget-holding icant challenge”. These include local A&Es and the group plans to GP appointments at evenings and NHS West Kent Clinical Commis- treating 90% of A&E patients improve the system. Discharge sup- weekends by March 2018, extend- sioning Group has reviewed its op- within four hours by September port initiatives are in place and ing this to the whole country by erating budget for 2017/19 and says this year and 95% by March 2018. these will be enhanced. March 2019. that “an extensive cost reduction From April 10-16, Maidstone and The group has won extra funding  The local group says it is also de- programme is needed”. Tunbridge Wells hospitals’ A&E to enhance staffing and hours for veloping partnerships among key This follows three reduction ex- performance was 88.2%. specialist mental care support in local providers to integrate care in ercises over the past two years. NHS England is also pressing both its A&Es. the area.

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Maidstone June 2017 35 downsmail.co.uk

Olive King unsuccessful mission to negotiate peace of Arnhem in 1944. He worked in the Obituaries with Britain. Palestinian police service after the war and OLIVE Kathleen King (90) lived locally Brenda married Roland Day in 1942. Her was promoted to sergeant (becoming the from 1952 spending 40 years on South husband was also from a Kent farming youngest serving officer of that rank). He Street, Barming and then moving to family. They seled down after the war, was ordained into holy orders in 1953 and Allington. forming Elphicks Farm in Hunton, farming married Joy in 1955. She worked on local hops, fruit and livestock. The couple raised The couple lived in Croydon and moved farms and on Week children Robert, Simon and Diana. to a post in Siingbourne in 1958. Street. Born Olive Brenda took up bowls in later life, going John and Joy raised sons Tim, Andrew Bowley in she on to compete at county standard. and David. He served as vicar of Brenchley was raisedin that area She and Roland retired to from 1974 to 1983 and also taught at before war service in 20 years ago. Brenda was widowed in 2011 Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar. the WRNS took her to and lived independently until a few days Joy Meacham founded Roundabout – a Suon in and before her death. A thanksgiving service village magazine which is published. The to Portsmouth. Her for Brenda’s life drew over 100 people to family moved from the local area in 1984 work taking telegraph Vinters Crematorium. and John went on to take a masters’ degree messages to ships led in Philosophy from the Open University. to her meeting her husband Bob. The In retirement John and Joy seled in couple were married for 46 years, raising Jean Brownlow Walmer where, after being diagnosed with daughters Trisha and Jennie. JEAN Brownlow (78) lived locally her Alzheimers, John spent his final years in a Trisha said: “My mother worked on care home. Croucher’s farms sorting apples and later whole life, most recently on College Walk, in Hilton’s shoe shop on Week Street. She and was a champion ladies darts player. loved walking with my father. People will Born Jean Beautridge in Maidstone she Rosalind Sawyer remember her as fun-loving and amiable. aended Vinters School and began work Her family will remember her as a loving for Printway on the site now occupied by ROSALIND Sawyer (84) lived in the mother and grandmother.” Clark’s furniture store. Jean was also a Allington area all her life. Olive was widowed in 1997 and member of the Territorial Army for a She was born and raised in Grace Avenue subsequently spent a lot of time with her number of years. She met and married and after marrying her husband Roy in widowed sister, Joyce. Olive leaves her Colin Brownlow and raised children 1956 – she moved to Allington Way, where daughters, grandsons Steve and Mike, David, Angie and Debbie and worked for she lived for 60 years. granddaughters Hollie and Rosie and has many years on Alan Firmin’s farms. Born Rosalind Hammond, she went to one great-granddaughter on the way. Jean was a local singles darts champion East Borough Primary School and and a newspaper dubbed her “The Queen Maidstone Technical of the Arrows”. School for Girls and Don Nichols Debbie said: “My mother was very began work as a sociable, open-minded and friendly. She shorthand typist for G MEMBERS of East Farleigh parish church and my father were married for over 50 B Arnold in the town, are mourning the death of Don Nichols years. She was a loving mother and later working for The (90) on Good Friday, two days after joining grandmother.” Regent Oil Company his wife Doreen in a nursing home. Jean – who was widowed around five in Aylesford. A talented gardener and prize-winning years ago – leaves her children and Rosalind was orchid grower he was generous to the grandchildren Keaton, Rebecca and Alex. mother to Richard and church in supplying flowers for the bigger John. Richard said: festivals. He would regularly be seen “My mother was very skilled at kniing cuing grass and tending to the large Norman Butcher and sewing; she made clothes for the churchyard with its splendid views over THE death has been announced of Norman family and studied some particular skills in the Medway. Don and Doreen always ran this area; like sewing pockets. Her work a stall at coffee mornings etc. Edward Butcher, who died in Edinburgh, a week before his 89th birthday. was valued by all of us, including her The former Maidstone Grammar School grandchildren.” Brenda Day pupil was a noted academic. He studied Later in life Rosalind discovered a love geology and lectured and tutored at for travel and her son John would take her BRENDA DAY (100), of East Farleigh, was Reading University and The Open and Roy abroad. Rosalind also loved born Brenda Body, into a local farming University. gardening and trips into town, where she family in Biddenden. had a whole network of friends. She knew After studying at Goudhurst Ladies everyone from bus drivers to the regulars College, she became a nanny and went on John Meacham she met at the United Reformed Church in to war service with the WAAF, as a ploer Week Street. in the operations rooms at RAF Fighter THE death has been announced of John She was very interested in local history Command in Stanmore. Her duties Meacham, formerly vicar of Brenchley. and was a valued member of The included ploing the route of the plane Born in Plymouth in 1924, John saw war Aylesford Historical Society. taken by Hitler’s deputy, Rudolf Hess, as service as a glider pilot and trained with Rosalind – who was widowed nine years he flew to Scotland on a secret and the Parachute Regiment ahead of the Bale ago – leaves her sons and grandchildren William, George, Emma and Charloe.

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36 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk

Barming had received complaints about residents with youths’ parents were carried out. Councils Parish using the parish hall car park, which had Brooks Field An email had been received Co-option Fleur Willson was co-opted to impacted on hirers being able to park their from the pond working party that about 66 fill the vacancy on the parish council. vehicles. Cllr Doe would liaise with man hours had been spent clearing reeds Police maers Cllr Doe was pleased to residents and politely remind them to etc from the pond and trough. The deputy inform members that no further incidences check the diary, which is posted on the clerk had passed on thanks on behalf of the of dog thefts had been reported, but noticeboard at the village hall. parish council. reminded residents to be vigilant. Rubbish The clerk had received a Neighbourhood plan Work was still Bull Orchard Cllr Manser had looked at complaint about rubbish by one of the underway on the six-week consultation various plant tubs at a local garden centre recently replaced bus shelters along the which was being carried out by a focus which cost about £35 to £50. The clerk was Tonbridge Road, although this area was group. There were many responses to asked to contact the company which not covered by Barming Parish Council. various items/policies in the supplied the recycled bench to enquire The chairman would speak to the relevant questionnaires. The group was about three about suitable containers. people at Maidstone Borough Council to quarters of the way through the draft Annual meeting It was agreed to order try and resolve the issue for the lady. document and what had been analysed so sandwich plaers from Marks & Spencer. Award At the annual parish meeting a far had been passed on to Feria to start Barming Youth Club The clerk had framed certificate was presented to Peter work on. contacted a removal company regarding Gooch, winner of the Kent Association of Social media and website The website was the old sofas that need to be disposed of Local Councils’ Community Award for his described as very professional. It was from the pavilion. Members felt that the continued support to the parish council, suggested to employ a freelance graphic cost to remove the sofas, which had been from seing up the Speedwatch initiative designer to do posters etc and to offer a left by the youth club, was too high and to helping with the remembrance service different format for Facebook and asked the clerk to contact the council. If arrangements and lier picking at no extra eventually Twier. This would give the Maidstone Borough Council could not cost to the parish council. parish council an opportunity to change remove them at a reasonable price, it was the design. The logo could stay the same felt that the youth club should arrange Loose but in a different format. This would then removal at their own cost. Cllr Manser said Community warden Liz Lova continued represent the parish beer and be more that where furniture had been moved sophisticated. around the pavilion, paint had chipped off to carry out her welfare visits to vulnerable people in the parish, and keeping in touch Plaque The missing plaque on the viaduct the walls in several places. A repaint would had been erected in 1980 to mark its 150th be necessary in the near future. with social services, NHS and the police. She emphasised that people should be anniversary. Cllr Jim Andrew had Councillor’s reports Cllr James reported contacted the Civil Engineers’ Society and that while locking the parish field gate, she aware of doorstep selling and the potential problems associated with this. found it was erected by the parish council. noticed there were now tracks across the Trees It was agreed to take part in the 2017 grass and wanted anyone driving up to the Police report Smoking of cannabis at the King George V playing field was reported Kent Men of the Trees village competition. pavilion to be reminded to drive near to Planning The non-availability of paper the path, ensuring that the grass does not but was not on CCTV. However, the police had been informed. Youths had been plans for Maidstone Borough Council get ruined. Cllr Manser reiterated that planning applications would be a problem people should only be driving up the field throwing objects at cars from Valley Drive footpath. Members asked if they would get as broadband had not been installed at the if it is completely necessary, ie if a hirer has parish pavilion. a large amount of heavy equipment. She an update from the PCSO if interviews rm reports Crime SOMEONE tried to break into a house in Cliveden Close, Allington, but no access was gained. Neighbourhood Watch A vehicle parked in the road in Warwick Place was broken into. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A Gemini TT motor boat was stolen from its moorings on the river near St Peter’s fied was stolen from a car park at the broken into and machine accessories were Street. leisure centre in Barker Road. stolen. A vehicle parked in St Peter’s Street was A communal door was damaged in Hart Someone entered a first-floor office in taken without consent. Street. Albion Place and stole a Toshiba laptop. An unsecured Renault Traffic van parked The side window of a vehicle parked on The glass panel in a front door in St outside shops in Buckland Hill was a driveway in Chamberlain Avenue was Philip’s Avenue was broken. entered and a Samsung mobile phone and smashed but no entry was aempted. A shed on an allotment in Loose Road tablet were stolen. Two men were seen A wood pile was set alight in a garden in was broken into. taking the items from the van. Dover Street and fencing was damaged by A recycling bin was stolen from a A cycle was taken from a communal the fire. commercial car park in Knightrider Street. secured bike shed in Hubert Walter Drive. Youths were seen trying to break into a An unaended Hilpi drill was stolen Parts were removed from a vehicle van parked in Glebe Lane. from a building site in King Street. parked at a house in Victoria Street. In Bonnington Road, there was an A vehicle parked in a car park in In Bower Street, someone smashed a aempted break-in to a garage at a house. Gabriels Hill was broken into and a cellar cover but it was unclear whether this This was a repeat crime. driving licence and bank card were stolen. was an aempted break-in or deliberate A building aached to a church in Week A vehicle parked in the car park at a damage. Street was broken into and damage done. block of flats in Tufton Street had A VW Tiguan parked in Bower Place was This was a repeat crime. paintwork damaged with an unknown scratched and the bonnet was dented. A vehicle parked in an allocated bay in liquid. A shed was broken into in Hartnup Old School Place was broken into. The front doors of the court building in Street. A Renault Traffic van parked in a Palace Avenue were set on fire. Two rear wheel trims were taken from a commercial yard in Union Street was Fiat 500 in the car park at the cinema in broken into. Two Dewalt drills and two Barker Road. Dewalt jigsaws were stolen. A distinctive black pedal cycle was stolen A black BMX bike was stolen from SECURE YOUR HOME from The Broadway. The bike had “46 the outside shops in Week Street. ALARMS FROM £495+VAT doctor” paint decals. A house in Park Avenue was broken into A property in Douglas Road was broken via windows and jewellery was stolen. CALL 01622 880751 into while the residents were asleep and an In Curzon Road, a shed was broken into. Ipad, handbag and contents, Xbox console It is thought the shed alarm may have and accessories were stolen. deterred the offenders. ALARMS & SECURITY LTD A Carrera cycle with special child seat A DIY store in Upper Stone Street was

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42 Maidstone June 2017 Legal Notice Recruitment

ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH (deceased) Come and join our friendly sales This notice is being posted by the executors of Mr Alan Shuttleworth (deceased) late of 20, Mayfair Avenue, Four editions delivered to over 88,000 hom

MMalling Edition es every month Maidstone, Kent and also of 2, Crittenden Cottages, Gailants Lane, Maidstone, Kent, and latterly of 84, Knight alling team and share in our success. Edition dow nsmail.c o.uk Crescent, Middleton in Manchester. M aidsto ne Tow Maids n | M tone & aids No. 1 Mallin THE tone ne g’s Kent C Eas wspa joye ounty t | M per d fine Show aid bum wea en- ston per cr ther e S gr owds a and outh FR Alan Shuttleworth was a former member and Troop Leader of the 25th Lanarkshire (6th Motherwell) Boy Scouts ounds t the s | EE in ho M M Detling w- allin ore tha . g visit n 80,00 ors,ove 0 Jul last r 3,000 y 201 year, a up on 6 N We are currently recruiting a the ttende o. 2 c d 3 ounty’ one of 1 Co s bigge mpetit st even New and of ‘T Troop’ Loose Swiss Scout Group. and ors, sta ts. s busin llhold ac esses c ers ross th ame fr Be th e coun om tter b e usua try but uses ca l big lo had PARE Amon cal pre NTS ar ll g thos sence. bett e urgin Shan, e were er scho g acti of Stap Jo Kin ol bus on to Ken S lehurs gs Hill servic get helton t, and M and W es from both , of Ayle alling. est PURSUANT to the Trustee Act 1925 section 27 NOTICE IS GIVEN to all creditors and others having any claims pictur sford, rep ed, wh resente o  Fuc d the M 3 hsia G id Ken Pho ha roup. K t ne b s been en said oxes sav sh a wond : “It VILLA ow.” erful GERS h ed  ways ave co Mo of ret me up re pict red aining with against or claiming to be beneficially interested in the estate of ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH. page 1 ures, s phone their e b 6 e oxes.  An ear 4 ly C Ch Media Sales HILD c ristm horist as are rec ors in M ording erewo B tive so a CD o rth n f r gs in O fes- ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH died on the 10th February 2014 and his will was proved in the District Registry of the i ctob dg er. 5 in Pla g ygrou t KIN nd an h GS H ger e w ill resid er e b e misl nts say g e u a pla d abou they p nned n t a s e High Court by the executors named within it. w p i la n t y ar T e o ea.  RAD s 6 ERS an s p Petition again new d hom r ro e o AN o Executive ad b own s utdoo st g ridg ers p ha r gym ym i i s i ng n e acr n Sn e been d n Leyb ew oss odla r a w ismis ourne pro the nd i aste sed a sp R ar t of s That eri ive e h y mon All creditors and others having any claims against or claiming to be beneficially interested on the estate of ALAN is t he pr ty to r M ead ey.  ness peo edicti the edw ing f 12 ple on of loc tow ay se or a the and co al b n. t to o bona Joe’ route l uncillo usi- pen nza s dash out inkingthe rs wh people wit with skirts o say are l hin a THE la for hom of the A228 trade ooking week st pub cash es o town on th e boom for s, b for a in Dit m ntheo and ne ing across thewhen ward ring new le ton loo ean a ppo w traffics to a - an o ase of ks set h nincre site b an Am brid tarts f start m ffice b life as SHUTTLEWORTH are required to send particulars of their claim in writing to the undersigned solicitors, ouse ase in kw ongth ge. low- yow lock. p rices. busin ill em was o nbusin The ess an is ha irdre neof ess. The  £19 m d sse Snodlan themain r bri Obit 28 which is d illion ro Mackint rAlex dtoope easo dge uari ue to o ad osh (pic- expa nab ns I ch es to sell advertising across our has be pen i bridge, tured le ndinga arbe ose  en nSep T nd r’s. It’s a port, a built b tem o ft)w here a up and C 32 sth ydev ber, pened ho re lot so com n omm 1,0 ekey to eloper Tren his salon up all a f new ingarea. ent 00 hom Peters - Alexan roun houses Stephensons Solicitors LLP, whose address is 1st Floor, Sefton House, Northgate Close, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6PQ east ba e new Vill der’s in the they fin d the ar goin  nk ne comm age, a town ish t h ea, g 34 arW unity on ’s people ebridg and onc Crim WithS ouldha the Street High will co e,Ithink e e Re be nodland a m. of the ri me ov a lo port nefit o lre months ago b seven verbe er from tof s  w f a high-sp adyfe conve cau that side ROO hich eling th cause e- nientfo se i tw F lead a 43 started eed rai e sh ofthe put S rthem ill be ve stole nd co a year ag llink oppers ipate antic- nodlan .It ry n from pper w o, busine , and c din A donthe will re a hou ere He said ommuter flux of fterrece map ally se in A (Reference AJG/S73475.3). All correspondence should be marked for the attention of Mr A Gregory and should be ss ber’s in :“I s. ham ntly .” ylesfo publications and online products. was m with moving rd. an Tonbri aging looking wife, Katie, A to W dge b abar- fo ould- ut I wa ing rwardt lexis nted t to sho otheb also o co rten his d ridgeope mmut aily n- e. work 8 sent to those solicitors within a three month period after the date of this advertisement. If no further claims against YO Police to pulpit UR L 016 OCAL AF Insi 22 690 PRO ORM de this PERTY fice ERMetro editio 29 m EXPE risthenepolitan NEW b n: 0 aids RT Mallin w Police uildin tone@m g,Te vicar of- Malling g pr 23 Pud art Rev ston an at Eas are be oposals ding La inco Nick W dWate t bridge ing dra for ne • M .com wit illiams, w ringb and M wn up the estate are intimated within the specified period of 3 months from the date of the advertisement the Executors will aidsto htwo ho i ury. on its alling as Ton- ne • K pos sons, w sm emerg Counc ent tinOcto ill sta arried four ing Lo il work th be rt in hi -page cal Plan s evica rand snew Act supple . See t K rage in E livein ion Pa ment b he en ast M p rtnersh y Mall You will be working on the best t’s allin  eople, ip, wh ing b i M g. 5 t usine ch supp ost he 11 p sses an orts Aw arishes d even Book Now 01732a 617557 in the ts in proceed to distribute the assets of the deceased among the persons entitled to them having regard only to the claims rde Malling d a Opticia rea. www.opto n metrists.c of which they have notice and shall not be liable for the assets of the deceased or any part of them so distributed to publications serving the local community o.uk any person or persons of whose claims or d emands they have not had notice of.” and enjoy a working environment that EE 5 FR provides you with the freedom and flexibility n 201 Autum to use your initiative while working within a supportive team. The role will involve: pkin Ashley n the pum O y Jackson hocke • Handling inbound and making trail at Kent’s r FOR CLASSIFIED Emmetts supersta outbound calls Garden • Developing business from existing clients ADVERTISING • Obtaining and growing new business • Working to achieve revenue targets.

A time for Call Becky or Teresa now - The ideal candidate will have previous sharing this CHRISTMAS experience in a similar role and will: alks ardens • W es & G WINas m stm hri the tre • Ho (( A C all Thea • Have worked to personal sales targets ey & s t • k g tur min Days ou trim 01622 630 330 • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Have excellent communication skills This is a part time position upto 32 hours per week. Friendly, flexible, family owned business. Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. Recruitment [email protected] Care Workers Vacancies West Malling 1 Full Time Team Leader 1 Full Time Activities Coordinator 2 x Part Time Care Workers Age Concern Malling is an independent registered Charity looking for care workers to join our dedicated dementia care team. Due to expansion, we have 2 full time and 2 part time vacancies available. Based in our specialised dementia care facility in West Malling, the successful applicants will work alongside our registered nurse and trained care workers to provide support to those living with dementia. Open 6 days a week, we deliver care tailored to the client’s individual needs and offer stimulating and engaging activities throughout the day. As an organisation we are committed to dementia care and to providing a safe and friendly environment to both the clients and the staff. Applicants must have a passion for care, a good work ethic and be flexible. Minimum Qualification NVQ Level 2 / NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care to apply. Excellent pay rate and company pension. Training provided.

To request an application pack please contact Age Concern Malling on 01732 848008 / 01732 871746. For an informal chat or additional information please contact Lynda Rootes [Registered Manager] on 01732 848008 / 01732 871746.

Closing Date: Monday 10th May Interviews week commencing 15th May

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Maidstone June 2017 45 downsmail.co.uk Comment Phoney war build-up to Brexit I SEE the short build up to the snap to be very grateful for their generosity general election on June 8 as rather akin and support during the good years. to a previous “phoney war”. It has some MailMarks Times have changed dramatically, similarities to 1939/40, when our country DENNIS FOWLE President largely due to growth of the internet. was quietly preparing for an even bigger [email protected] National and local news is just a click challenge in Europe. away, and paid-for newspaper I was surprised when Theresa May circulations still plummet disastrously. announced her election plan. But on Worse still, most younger people are not reflection, I think she is spot-on. She has strength in Maidstone and rest of Kent. buying. made a lot of astute Brexit decisions and The four Maidstone/Malling MPs – Much advertising has moved to the statements – this may be the trump card. Helen Grant, Helen Whately, Tracey internet too, especially mainstays of local I agree we wish to try to retain good, Crouch and Tom Tugendhat – have huge newspapers such as property, cars and friendly relations with our European majorities and, with solid constituency jobs. Revenue has been decimated and neighbours and continue to co-operate on track records, I cannot see realistic threats. cost-cuing is very painful. The KM significant mutually beneficial issues. Newspaper sadness found its final salary pension scheme very What I deplore is the direction of the testing. EU since we guardedly voted for the These are worrying and sad times in Loss of “the local” on communities and Common Market. Now I want total local newspapers and now it has come to democracy can be devastating. My first 20 British sovereignty, control over our own our doorstep, with the sale of troubled years in journalism were with the KM national business and borders and the exit KM Media Group to Iliffe Media Ltd, Group (10 years editing the Kent our nation has voted for from an based in Cambridge. Messenger) and the current situation undemocratic, expensive and weakening With so many local papers now closing brings much sadness. I am encouraged by EU. or in deep trouble, we must be thankful promised new investment, but can this I think our Prime Minister identifies this sale should bring greater financial surging tide ever be turned? panic at the top of the EU, will withstand security to a wide range of local They have my best wishes – and this aempts of crass bullying and will be newspapers throughout Kent, radio, TV comes from a friendly competitor. I am astute in difficult negotiations to get the and online services. relieved we at Downs Mail have been best for Britain. The bulk of British voters The started its life as largely sheltered from this newspaper appear to see it that way too. This is a key Maidstone Telegraph in 1859 and around tempest. We are very different as our reason pollsters forecast a hugely the turn of that century, Barham Pra readers receive a FREE family newspaper increased Conservative majority in the Boorman began the family’s proud delivered FREE, now to more than 80,000 Commons – a massive vote of confidence ownership/leadership, which continued homes. This keeps readers and she needs to carry to Europe. through his son Roy, grandson Edwin advertisers happy. The formula has Locally, it is difficult to forecast and now finally great-granddaughter worked for 20 years – but we continue to anything but continued Conservative Geraldine Allinson. Maidstone has reason evolve in this fast-changing world.

Wrong place for a school recent, months have become aware and walkers expected to deposit their rubbish? appalled at the seemingly ever-increasing My wife and I are now in the habit of PLEASE feel free to call me naive but, amount of lier being casually tossed into taking a black sack out when we go into although news of more school places for the hedgerows and ditches. town, and collecting the rubbish on our Bearsted is very good news, the location Chief among these cast-offs are way back home, which we should not have seems idiotic. wrappings from a well-known chain of to do. So come on council, a few waste bins Unless only children from Bearsted are to burger purveyors. In fact, I saw a group of along the way could make all the difference be given places at the new school, those young people driving along a country road to a beautiful walk. from St John’s area and outside Langley recently throwing the stuff Steve Medcalf, via email are nearer to this location, and might well from the windows as they went. apply for places due to overcrowding in In your newspaper, I often see articles their own areas. about lier-picks and the like. These are Dogma before our welfare In addition, children travelling from performed by community-minded folk I CAME from quite a poor family, but Bearsted will almost certainly have to who just want the best for their areas. The thanks to the 11 plus, ended up at a travel via the already overused and narrow whole borough would be a disgraceful technical school, which led me to college Ware Street/Bearsted Road route, a journey mess without them. and a career as an electronics engineer. including using the congested New Cut But, surely, more can and must be done Our politicians have now moved so far to roundabout. to educate our primary schoolchildren and the left and are so ashamed of excellence You may recall previous correspondence those at the secondaries about this practice. among their own people, that they prefer regarding the appalling amount of traffic Keep Britain Tidy! to import thousands of skilled people from already travelling along Ware Street – over B Barne, via email countries where they are needed more, 2,000 vehicle movements in one hour on a while paying 1.6 million people here, to sit Sunday. More rubbish bins, please on their backsides unemployed. The current debacle about the Woodcut HAVING read your Mail Marks column Those whom the Gods would destroy, Farm development shows what confusion regarding lier in Maidstone, I would like they first make mad! reigns in planning-related maers and to draw your aention to the section of the As always, political dogma is put before possibly the Woodcut Farm site would towpath which runs from the Malta Inn the good of the citizens and the good of the have been a much beer prospect for any into Maidstone town centre. country. A good example is the selling-off school development to serve the Bearsted My wife and I live next to the towpath of school playing fields, so children could area. Joined-up thinking seems to be and walk daily into town along this route. all be cut down to the same level, ie all lacking in so many decisions made these The walk is wonderful, but could be a lot must win prizes! days. beer but for the empty drink cans and Phil Granger, West Malling Jean Beaton, via email detritus left in the bushes, or around the occasional seating provided by the council. Whilst I commend the council for the Beating exam stress Educate on lier issues works they are currently carrying out, it is THE NSPCC’s Childline service is offering I OFTEN spend weekends walking the beyond belief that along the route we walk tips to young people in Kent to help them public footpaths around Kent and, in there is not one single waste bin. Where are cope with exam stress.

46 Maidstone June 2017 downsmail.co.uk Cheaper day tickets would solve ‘swapping’ issue Comment I READ you very interesting article on Leeds Castle introducing photo ID annual tickets, to stop the practice of ticket swapping. I know many other attractions do this, and for people who WANT an annual ticket, this is perfectly acceptable and a very sensible way to protect your tickets. Replacements should be able to be issued if lost, as ONLY the photographed person should be able to use that ticket. However, Leeds Castle, and other attrac- tions which sell tickets which are valid for a year are missing one vital detail – not every- one WANTS annual tickets! For example, people visiting from out of town (or even the country), or those whose grandchildren have come to visit, are ex- tremely unlikely to be making a return visit within the next year. They have then just paid These could be day passes or yearly an extortionate amount of money for a day Keep local people happy tickets, bought alongside proof of ID and ticket. THERE has been a fair amount of debate address. So why aren't those attractions offering about the introduction of photo ID tickets Leeds Castle is a jewel in the crown for this largely discounted day tickets? The need for for Leeds Castle. county and we are jolly lucky to have it. “borrowing” somebody else's annual ticket, for Whilst no one condones the practice of Despite the council’s best efforts to place a a one-off visit to the attraction would then be brazenly swapping tickets on Facebook as a huge industrial park on its doorstep, Leeds unnecessary, and the knock-on effect would means of avoiding paying the entrance fee, Castle will most likely remain a magnet for result in more ticket sales, equalling more in- the new idea seems a little heavy-handed, to visitors and it is something to celebrate, not come. say the least. denigrate. Somebody needs to put this to attractions In the interests of good local community But Sir David Steel, the chief executive, like Leeds Castle. It seems that common sense relations, would it not be better to offer a might do well to remember that keeping the is largely ignored in situations like these. discounted rate for people who live in the locals onside is pretty important. Julia Moore, Cumberland Ave, Maidstone ME, CT and TN postcodes? T Milne, via email

The advice comes as new figures reveal Childline has the following advice for students talking about exam stress the NSPCC-service delivered 3,135 young people siing exams:  Encourage students to take regular counselling sessions on exam stress in  Make sure you take regular breaks from breaks from studying for exams 2016/17 – a rise of 11% over the past two revising and do some exercise  Encourage students to talk to you or years. Worryingly, young people are  Go to bed at a reasonable time and try other teachers about exam stress consistently telling counsellors that exam and get some sleep Every year we hear from thousands of stress can contribute to depression, anxiety,  Try to think positively – even if you children who are struggling to cope with panic aacks, excessive crying, low self- don’t feel like it, a positive aitude will the pressure to succeed in exams. For some esteem, self-harming and suicidal thoughts help you during your revision this can feel so insurmountable that it or even make pre-existing mental health  Remember that everyone's different - try causes crippling anxiety and stress and in conditions worse. not to compare yourself to your friends some cases contributes to mental health More than a fifth of the counselling Advice for parents and carers to help issues or even suicidal thoughts. sessions took place in May, as pupils faced ease exam stress: Exams are important but worrying, and upcoming exams, with many telling  Don’t place unnecessary pressure on panicking about them can be counsellors they were struggling with your children to gain certain grades counterproductive, leaving young people subjects, excessive workloads and feeling  Encourage children to take regular unable to revise and prepare. unprepared. breaks, eat snacks and exercise It is vital that young people are Those most likely to be counselled about  Help them revise by leaving them the supported by family, friends and teachers exam stress were 12-15 year olds but this space and time to do so during the exam period to help them do year saw the biggest rise amongst 16-18  Be supportive and help alleviate their the best they can. Childline is also here 24/7 year olds - up 21% on 2015/16 - many of worries by talking to them for any young person needing confidential whom will have been preparing for A- Advice for teachers: support and advice. levels to determine university places.  Facilitate classroom discussions to get Peter Wanless, chief executive, NSPCC

The five editions of the Downs Mail are delivered to 90% of households in the Maidstone and Malling area, reaching over 190, 000 readers every month. Maidstone North Maidstone South Maidstone East Maidstone Weald Malling Current and archived editions are also free to read online at www.downsmail.co.uk Contact our teams…. Editorial Sales Accounts Dept. Editor: Simon Finlay Sales Manager: Bill Brett [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 630330 ext 229 01622 734735 01622 630330 ext. 221 Mail Publications Ltd Assistant Editor: Diane Nicholls Forge House Advertising Sales Enquiry: [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park 01622 630330 ext. 232 01622 630330 option 1 Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT

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