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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling September 2016 No. 233

Results delight News IT was smiles all round for these GCSE Olympic gold students at Cornwallis Academy, A RIO gold medallist will visit where nearly half of entrants earned pupils to inspire a new five A*-C passes, including English and generation at her former 3 maths. school in . Their efforts provided an 11% im- provement on last year’s results – just one of the many positive per- New homes delay formances put in by teachers and START on 800-home Langley students, who celebrated the rewards development could be  of their studies with their GCSE and at least a year away. 8 A-level results at schools across the region. For all the details and the names of Cricket club setback some of the top performers turn to Cricket Club is page 25 and 26. struggling to survive after  thieves took their mower. 10

By-election battle OPENING shots are fired in the Locals set to turn battle for a seat on Maidstone Council. 11 Cornfield fire into community hub FIREFIGHTERS at Marden used their new fire engine to  VILLAGERS have put their money where their mouth is in and tackle a cornfield blaze. 12 are about to exchange contracts on their local pub. Wild birds slaughter A team of four from the village as a golden opportunity to provide and Charles’ sister Rosemary Cass- DUCKS were killed in an attack came up with the money for the “a heart” for the close community, well lives next door to The Harrow by a gang of men with Grade II Harrow Inn pub – where which has just 600 houses. Inn, as does the other share-holder dogs at a village pond. 12 the last pint was pulled more than a He said: “We Simon Odan, with villager Richard decade ago – after securing the back- have a hall, pri- Sim making up the four. ing of volunteers and pledges of fi- mary school and They say the business will be run Birthday girl is 111 nancial support from the village. a church that by an independent management A woman is Now they hope to be just days have lots going committee, with a licensee already heading towards being away from exchanging contracts on, but without stepping up. There are ideas of op- the oldest in Britain. 16 with plans to open the pub by a pub or a shop erating the business as a micro-pub, Christmas. it has always with guest ales and cider, and a café Dog waste bins to go The new owners have the supp- been hard work and possibly, a post office and BINS for dog waste are being port of local MP Helen Whately (pic- bringing people together. We used creche, too. removed in a bid to cut tured), who has promised to visit. to gather when the rubbish freighter Charles (55) said: “Had the pub council costs.  It follows a failed attempt by the visited the village, but even that has been two miles down the road, none 20 current owners to sell the former stopped. of us would have been interested in  drinking establishment, in the heart “We have received huge support buying it, but because it is in the Obituaries 36 of the village, at auction in London. from locals offering to get involved, heart of the village and our nearest Among those behind the fresh bid from gardening, to running the busi- pub is a mile away, this was a golden Comment 37 is fruit farmer Charles Tassell, who ness for us; it’s really exciting.” opportunity to make it our described the chance to buy the pub Church Farm backs on to the pub own. 6 Crime Reports 47 Flood insurance Twenty wooden storage bins for LOCAL NEWS THE landlady of the Chequers pub apples were burned at a farm in UPDATED DAILY in Yalding says businesses hit by ; a climbing frame floods in 2013 are now facing huge and slide were stolen from a gar- EVENTS - SERVICES & INFORMATION - ITEMS FOR SALE insurance premiums. Julie Chalker, den in Langley; Thieves took a who runs the pub with her son heavy statue from a garden on www.downsmail.co.uk Linton Hill; and plants were re- Your community website Christopher, warns many traders may have to close. 3 moved in Marden.

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2 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Golden girl to No help for flood-hit visit school BRITAIN’S hockey gold in the Rio Olympics was not just a success for Team GB and player Susannah traders, says landlady Townsend, but also for her old BUSINESSES in Yalding say false important, in the meantime, how- school of Sut- promises of help for flood victims ever, that the Government, Environ- ton Valence. will see the value of their proper- ment Agency and insurance The school ties go down the drain. industry work together to ensure boasts a num- Julie Chalker (51), who runs the communities at risk benefit from the ber of Chequers pub with her son Christo- right protections, so when Flood Re Olympians, but pher, says promises of help made by comes to an end, affordable insur- Susannah (pic- David Cameron, the Environment ance is available.” tured) is the Agency and the county council at He added: “Sadly, there is a strict first female to the height of the flooding in 2000 qualifying criteria for Flood Re and win a medal, and the first ever gold. and 2013 have failed to materialise. commercial properties are excluded. Susannah (27) was a member of Not only do the Flood Re rules in- The thought was that this cover the school’s 1st XI hockey team for troduced to offer more affordable would be available within the com- three seasons. She missed out on se- cover to homes in flood risk areas mercial insurance market, but this is lection for the 2012 Olympic squad, not apply to commercial operations, not the case. Insurers are either im- but her commitment and develop- they only have a 23-year lifespan. posing hugely increased excesses ment over the last four years was re- As a commercial operation with even though the risk is the same. and premiums or in many cases the warded at Rio. no flood risk assistance from the “Those selling domestic properties only quotation available excludes The school’s head of hockey, Government, her insurer insists on a in a few years’ time will find that flood cover altogether. David Matthews, a former GB £35,000 excess in the event of flood- buyers won’t be able to get insur- “Many business owners are now player himself, said: “We are so ing. ance or a mortgage for homes in considering whether it is financially proud of Susannah; we have Julie (pictured), who moved into Yalding if Flood Re is not extended.” viable for them to continue to oper- watched her progress with interest the pub 19 months ago, said: “I was- Mark Pickup, who runs insurance ate with the fear of further flooding as she developed as a player. The n’t worried about taking on the pub brokerage Lion Insurance, which is and are considering re-locating or team’s perseverance and unity was because we were assured flood vic- based near Yalding, has been work- even closing. If this happens it will outstanding and we are thrilled to tims would be helped. Now, nothing ing with MP Helen Grant and parish have a devastating impact on local see their hard work paying off.” is being done.” councils in the area to publicise communities.”  Susannah will visit the independ- She added: “Businesses are ex- Flood Re to residents. Flood Re is a reinsurance scheme ent school to talk to students about He said: “Flood Re will be in place which enables insurance companies pected to pay more than 10 times the her success in Rio, and to inspire a until 2039 and homeowners need to to insure themselves against losses premium of domestic properties, new generation of Olympians. use it while it is available. It is vitally because of flooding.

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Maidstone South September 2016 3 News downsmail.co.uk Churches join to increase Report praises Age UK congregation THE creation of a new Team Min- for ‘first class’ service istry, serving a dozen churches along the Pilgrims Way, looks set to win favour. AGE UK Maidstone was given a glowing report on its staff and care but The re-organisation – merging the parishes of , has been told by a health watchdog that it must improve its admin. , , Thurnham, The charity’s Mill Street branch, and “gold stars”. , Leeds, Broomfield, Grove which provides bathing and foot- About 80 people use the bathing Green, Kingswood, Langley and care services for more than 400 service and 340 are helped by the – has won the backing of all older people, received an unan- foot care service. The report said: the Parochial Church Councils nounced two-day inspection in “Staff were trained and supported (PCC) affected. June from Care Quality Commis- to have the right skills, knowledge The new “super benefice” or sion (CQC) inspectors. and qualifications necessary to give Team Ministry would operate Their report praised the service people the right support. Everyone under a Team Rector – currently for being effective, caring and re- we spoke with said the staff, Rev John Corbyn, at Holy Cross, sponsive, but made recommenda- whether they were using the foot – with a Team Vicar, Rev tions following issues on safety and care or bathing service, respected Steve Hughes, in Otham; a new leadership. their privacy and dignity.” Mission post reaching out to fami- Recruitment files did not contain Paul Coles, chief executive of Age lies on new estates and a second required information and there had UK Maidstone, said the charity was Team Vicar at Hollingbourne vic- not been regular criminal record working to update its admin pro- arage. checks. Some staff had worked for cedures. He said: “We have a very The official name of the Team the charity for more than 10 years long-serving and stable staff. Some Ministry, the Hollingbourne va- without being re-assessed. Paul Coles of Age UK, Maidstone have been with us for 20 years. We cancy and the Mission post will be The CQC also said individuals’ with the CQC. are pleased that the CQC did such progressed now the public consul- care needs should be reviewed However, the inspectors praised a detailed inspection of our service tation has closed. more regularly and reviews sought the care provided, reporting that because it enables us to learn from It follows discussions that began on the service. Fire risk assessments people they interviewed said the that and ensure that we are provid- nearly two years ago in light of va- were overdue and the new man- staff were well trained and knew ing the best service to our clients. cancies and how the church should ager had taken up the post earlier what they were doing. One person “If any of our clients are worried, respond to falling and aging con- this year, but had not yet registered described the service as “first class” they can ring and talk to our staff.” gregations – a decision described by Rural Dean Rev Dick Venn as an “inspiration from God”. He said: “It hasn’t been an easy Transport festival a hit with visitors decision. Every PCC has had to look quite carefully and hard about HUNDREDS turned out to enjoy the way forward and this is what the sun and the displays at we want to do. Transport Festival. “It is important for the Church to It is the sixth year the event has look at its mission work and to been staged at The Chequers pub, strike the balance between catering and landlady Tracey Leaver said it for our existing congregations and was the best yet. reaching out to new people, or the “We had a model T Ford, tractors, Church will cease to exist.” racing minis and some really Rev Venn, who retires as vicar of popular exhibits.” the Len Valley Benefice in Septem- Children were able to sail boats ber, has urged the church to start around a make-shift lake, created advertising his post now, to ensure by Capstan Model Boat Club; the congregation isn’t left without Laddingford local Roger Manklow a vicar for any length of time and to brought along his engines and ensure his success in increasing at- organiser Terry Heaslip kept the tendance can be built on. kids amused with his model trains. Exam results pride for new head Plan withdrawn LOOSE Parish Council has with- RICHARD Owen (47) is the new He added: “Maplesden Noakes “As head teacher of Maplesden drawn its proposal for a long- head teacher at Maidstone’s has always been about giving our Noakes School my message is awaited community centre. Maplesden Noakes School. students the confidence to be the simple – I know that every indi- The council sought approval for He was thrust into the driver’s best. Our exam re- vidual can aspire to be the best if the £1m scheme from Maidstone seat just days after taking up the sults are the best they are motivated by self-belief. post, as students received their high school re- “Our support systems at Council but after some residents ob- exam results. sults in the area Maplesden have an outstanding jected, it decided to drop it pending Mr Owen was previously and I want stu- reputation because our expertise further discussions. deputy head at the Great Buck- dents and parents lies in building self-confidence Designs for the two-storey exten- land school for the last 11 years. to know that they and never giving up on our stu- sion to the King George V Pavilion He has been married for 23 years can trust us to dents. We believe in every indi- included a 200-seat hall, sports facil- and his wife is a deputy head give their chil- vidual and we believe in our ities, meeting rooms and a lounge. teacher in a primary school. Richard Owen dren a fantastic community. However, residents in Walnut Tree The holder of a BEd (Hons) and start in life. “Every year, the success of our Lane complained about increased an MEd, Mr Owen said he was ex- “I am proud of our reputation students, whatever their back- noise, disturbance, traffic, parking tremely proud of his students’ A- for outstanding academic stan- ground, shows that at Maplesden problems, the scale of the new build- level and GCSE results. dards and pastoral support. Noakes, everything is possible.” ing and the loss of green space.

4 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Call 01622 755641 £6k bill for fraud Maidstone 78 King Street, ME14 1BH case PE teacher www.maidstonedenturestudio.co.uk Eat, Smile and Talk with Confidence... A FORMER PE teacher who spent fee for the use of its football pitches. £6,000 from school funds on his In February 2014, equipment private coaching business has been bearing the name of his business • EXPRESS 1 Hour Denture Repair ordered to pay the money back was discovered in a disused chang- after being convicted of fraud. ing room on school premises. It was • New Bespoke Dentures Steve Restarick (44), of Sutton also stored in a school pavilion in Road, Maidstone, worked as the boxes to which only Restarick had head of PE at Maidstone Grammar access. • FREE Initial Consultation School between 2009 and 2014, but An assessment of department in- during this time used school money voices found purchases for the Pre- to fund a private sports coaching mier Football School going through business. the school’s PE budget. He denied the offence but a jury As well as the charge of fraud, found him guilty at Inner London Restarick was charged with three Crown Court where he was later counts of witness intimidation and given an 18 month sentence. He was one count of theft by an employee. also ordered to complete 200 hours A jury acquitted him of these of unpaid work. charges. The court heard that Restarick Investigating officer DC Simon joined the Barton Road school as a Powell said: “Restarick was un- teacher in 2002. In 2005 he set up a doubtedly a very talented, popular football training school, called Pre- and respected teacher, but he took mier Football School, in partnership advantage of his position to grow with the establishment. his own business over a number of It was agreed that Restarick could years. run the business on school grounds, “Restarick’s actions meant a with the profits evenly divided. school which was funded by the tax- However this agreement ended in payer was deprived of money that 2009. should have gone to its pupils. From this point on Restarick was “The investigation into this was instructed to fund the venture him- lengthy and complex and it and the self, with the only income received sentence he has received are entirely by the school being an agreed rental appropriate.” SaturdaySaturday 110th0th SSeptembereptember 9.30am - till late Spa hotel plan agreed SundaySunday 111th1th SSeptembereptember A PLAN for a lavish spa hotel has been approved by councillors, in spite of 9.30am - 4.30pm concerns by conservationists. Ciaran O’Quigley (48), the owner of Mu Mu’s in Week Street and the mastermind behind the hotel concept, thanked Maidstone Council for tak- Aerodrome ing the brave decision. Ahead of the meeting he said that while tourism played a big part in the future plans for Maidstone, there was no high-end Family Fun&:fZ`gbÛ\^gmZkkZrh_fh]^eZbk\kZ_m& : fZ`gbÛ\^gm ZkkZr h_ fh]^e Zbk\kZ_m  accommodation in the town centre. He and mucmuchh mormore!e! is pictured at the site. Prepare to be entertained by the hundreds of model aircraft, However, Maid- cars, trucks, boats and tanks! A packed day out with flying, stone Council’s plan- sailing and driving demonstrations starting at 10am each day. ning committee has agreed that the 36- See an explosive recreation display of the Battle of Britain bedroom, luxury spa with models of German and British wartime planes including hotel can be built at Spitfires, Hurricanes and 17ft Lancaster Bombers! the lower end of Brewer Street, behind Plus new for this year - an arts & craft village. St Francis’ Roman Catholic Church. It ONLINE PRICESPRICES

will include treat- Up to 5 years FFREEREE O ChildChild (5 toto 15)15) £8.00 OAdult (1(166 upwards)upwards) £10.00 ment rooms, a retro cinema, Roman bath and a 100-cover restaurant, pro- Family (2 adults 2 cchildren)hildren) £25.00 OCCampingamping (showers,(showers, WCWC & water)water) £60.00 viding an estimated 20 jobs. The work will involve the demolition of St Francis’ School building, which Historic and the council’s conservation officer expressed concerns about. Money will be donated to St Francis’ Church for a new hall. The proposed 1930s-style Hotel Mu Mu was recommended for approval by planning officers and was met with positive feedback from councillors and others keen to see the £6m investment in the county town. Cllr Naghi said: “The scheme will give a ‘wow’ factor and a much-needed point of interest to visitors stepping off the train to walk into town.” Before the proposal went to committee, parish priest Canon Luke Smith said he supported the plan, saying he believed it will be an asset to the town, with an agreement in place between Mr O’Quigley and the diocese that would be “beneficial to all concerned”. SaveSave moneymoney byby booking ticketstickets at www.headcornevents.co.ukwwww..headcornevents.co.uk It is understood the building will take 18 months to complete and Mr MakeMake it a full & fun weekend!weekend! O’Quigley hopes that work will begin in early January. @southernmodelshow

Maidstone South September 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Bales ahead at county elections

TWO seats up for grabs at next year’s Kent County Council elec- tions have sparked an internal battle within the Conservative Party. Five candidates are vying for the Maidstone rural eastseat, held by Jenny Whittle, of Bearsted, when she steps down from Kent County Locals to take over village pub Council. Four are local while the Gary Cooke and Cheryl Taylor-Maggio Continued from page one other is from Swale. “The village is an incredible source of home-grown talent and someone Ukip stands a candidate – widely be- Headcorn borough councillors at has already agreed to be the licensee if the sale goes through. The local lieved to be borough councillor Maidstone town hall Shellina Pren- pest control officer, fire officer and planning consultant have all offered Eddie Powell – in 2017. dergast and Martin Round have to help.” A big Ukip vote might split the thrown their hats in to the ring, as He says the pub remains remarkably untouched inside, with the present Tory vote, but equally it could affect have Cheryl Taylor-Maggio of Lan- owners having lived upstairs. gley Parish Council and Anne the second placed Labour Party in He said: “It’s a bit like walking on to the Mary Celeste, with the bar and Southern, of Parish Coun- blue-collar areas of Maidstone. all the pumps still downstairs. As landlords, we will obviously need to spend cil. The Swale contender is council- If Cllr Cooke fails to be selected as some money bringing the building up to standard, with facilities like a dis- lor Nicholas Hampshire. his party’s candidate, he has prom- abled toilet, but it is all very achieveable and we hope it will be open in Mrs Whittle has decided to step ised to stand as an independent. time for Christmas.” aside for personal reasons. Cllr Cooke is regarded as a hard- Leila Ware moved to Ulcombe 12 years ago and is among the many vil- At the 2013 election, she topped working and diligent member who lagers delighted that The Harrow Inn looks set to take on a new lease of the poll with 69% of the vote. Labour has spoken up regularly against the life. She said: “There’s nothing else in the village, so this is great news.” came second with 14%. borough council’s house building Mrs Whately, MP for Faversham and Mid Kent, said: “I know commu- Cllr Prendergast is considered to programme and the need for a by- nity-run shops and tea rooms are doing well in other villages. Getting The be a front-runner for the seat. pass to alleviate traffic issues in the Harrow going again, along with a tea room and shop, would give people In Maidstone south east, Conser- Leeds/Langley areas. a place to gather in that part of Ulcombe and useful supplies - so I can see vative Gary Cooke has a majority of The issues of housing, traffic and it would be a real benefit to the village. less than 300, but faces competition schools are bound to be among the “I’m keen to support the plan and congratulate everyone involved for from at least two others. major topics in both KCC divisions taking the initiative and getting this far.” He faces an even bigger threat if at next May’s polls.

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Maidstone South September 2016 7 News | Roads and Development downsmail.co.uk Work delayed on homes site WORK will start on 800 houses south of the A274 Sutton Road in Langley no earlier than autumn 2017, the developers have confirmed. Countryside, which has planning to examine them in detail, causing 800 new homes and the associated A Countryside statement added: permission granted by Maidstone widespread anger. community facilities provides the “Careful consideration has also Borough Council subject to strict It has also brought the need for a opportunity to both stimulate the been given to the impact on the infrastructure conditions, has been Leeds-Langley relief road back into local economy and assist Maid- local road network of this and other accused of “jumping the gun”. the equation, just a few months be- stone Borough Council’s aim to im- proposed housing developments in Downs Mail understands the fore the county council elections in prove the supply of high-quality south east Maidstone. local MP Helen Whately has re- May next year. new homes in the borough. “Countryside has agreed a sig- ferred the application and two oth- Mrs Whately said: “The total “Overall, there’s a lot of excite- nificant contribution to the Coun- ers – which total 1,300 dwellings in number of homes is extraordinarily ment about this particular develop- cil’s Integrated Transport Strategy all – recently put through by MBC high and it doesn’t make sense to ment and we look forward to for Maidstone, which will go to- to the Secretary of State for inde- press on without material invest- delivering this fantastic scheme.” wards junction improvements and pendent examination. ment in the road network.” A spokesman for Countryside ac- significant enhancements to local She, along with a number of Andrew Carrington, managing knowledged there were unresolved bus services. Work on the develop- county councillors including Gary director of strategic land at Coun- issues and added: “I can’t see it ment is expected to start next year.” Cooke and Jenny Whittle and local tryside, said: “The delivery of up to starting before autumn next year.” parish councils, is “deeply con- cerned” about the impact large- scale housing will have on roads, schools and local amenities. Residents voice their fears over traffic Cllr Cooke says the transport concerns are far from satisfied, and REPRESENTATIVES from Kent Kent County Council’s infrastruc- County Council met residents of ture position is very much at odds Leeds to discuss increasing with MBC’s, especially in light of volumes of traffic running through its “incessant push for more hous- the village. ing”. Cllr Gary Cooke called the site He added: “The developers are meeting after resident Robert jumping the gun somewhat. We are Jackson got in touch to complain nowhere near a situation where about vehicle numbers, the they can be talking with such con- aggressive conduct of some fidence about start dates. motorists, damage by hit-and-run “For instance, MBC is asking for drivers and lorries ignoring the the establishment of bus lanes, even HGV ban. though KCC is unlikely to agree to Kirstie Williams and Susan bus lanes.” Laporte from KCC also joined to MBC plans to build more than offer their observations and pressure on Leeds, its surrounding Cllr Cooke is pictured with 18,000 houses. expertise. villages and on Willington Street as residents Robert Jackson, Lesley The three A274 options were But the residents called for action well as express concerns about the Martin, Anitra Irrera, Lesley Finlay taken from the local plan before a on the relief road to reduce the level of house building. and parish councillor John Govett. government inspector had a chance Concern grows Plan to redevelop garages after accident RESIDENTS have been told Continued from page one about a plan for yet more new more large housing developments houses off the Sutton Road. planned off the A274 at Langley. Golding Homes told those liv- The proposals for 1,300 homes ing near the site in Park Wood on have been given outline planning August 23 about its proposition to permission – with certain highways demolish its 31 garages – off conditions – by Maidstone Borough Francis Lane, opposite the BP Council. garage – to build nine two- and The issue of the effects housing three-bedroom terraced proper- will have on local infrastructure is ties, plus parking. likely to become an issue at next No planning application has- year’s county council elections. been submitted as yet, but Gold- Mr Jackson has become concerned ing Homes says the proposal is not just by the numbers of vehicles part of a wider strategy by the in Leeds but the aggressive nature of company, looking at the re- the driving and conduct of the driv- development of its community the area”. She said it was still too garage site, which is not well ers. garage blocks. early to say whether the houses used and a little run-down, for A neighbour’s dog – a springer While the site is not included in would be sold on the open mar- development. We look forward to spaniel – was also clipped by a car in Maidstone Council’s Local Plan, ket, leased or offered on a shared- consulting with local residents on Upper Street in Leeds, but survived. a spokesman for Golding Homes ownership basis. the proposal plans and will wel- said Maidstone Council fully Chris Blundell, the director of come their views.” supported the home-provider’s development and commercial Residents were invited to at- Read our archived “garage redevelopment strategy” services at Golding Homes, said: tend the consultation meeting, at as a way of finding new sites for “We are committed to providing the garage block, where Golding editions FREE online at “desperately needed housing in good quality homes for local peo- Homes’ staff answered some of www.downsmail.co.uk ple and have identified this their questions.

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Maidstone South September 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Cricket club hit by mower theft

YALDING Cricket Club has again Jonathan Fenn, club treasurer said: been left struggling to survive after “It is a terrible blow for everyone in- thieves stole a key piece of equip- volved in the club. We are a small ment, leaving members unable to club that struggles financially any- prepare the ground. way, so to have to try and replace the The club, formed in 1798, has suf- stolen equipment is a huge chal- fered several setbacks in the past few lenge. This loss will not be covered years including flood damage and by our insurance and so represents a vandalism. Now a valuable mower crippling blow for the club.” has been stolen after thieves broke Martin Tripp, who runs the junior into a secure container at The Kin- section of Yalding cricket club, said tons playing field. “We get upwards of 50 youngsters to This was a particularly cruel blow, the ground on a Saturday morning as the club had been getting by Yalding Cricket Club is struggling to prepare its pitch after a mower theft and have been moving towards a thanks to generous contributions Peter Blackmore and support from ball Club as well as Ken Gough of promising future for the club. How- from individuals and organisations. the Kent Groundsman Association. Yalding Parish Council. ever without this vital equipment we The club said that Roy Farrier had There had also been extensive The cricket club has an extensive will struggle to secure the facilities been volunteering to prepare wick- work put into the ground by Yalding junior section who may now be left for these youngsters to play.” ets all season for both adult and jun- and Laddingford Sports Association unable to train or play because of the Police appealed for anyone with ior teams with Richard Field and and Yalding and Laddingford Foot- stolen mower. any information to come forward. Beer festival Gift pays for extension to hospice pool HUNTON village club is to host its A MUCH-needed extension to a the Stone family, who lived at memory of his brother, which en- first beer and cider festival from children’s hospice has been com- Wierton Place and ran the Polo abled the hydropool to be built in noon on September 24. pleted – fulfilling a dying wish of Club there. 2012. A further £216,000 was do- There will be a select number of the Stone family from Boughton The new facilities bear the name nated last year for the extension. locally produced beers and ciders Monchelsea. of Lydia Jane Stone, who died in A spokesman said the Stone fam- on offer. Visitors will be able to The hydropool at Demelza’s chil- 2005, and is described as the inspi- ily legacy had provided the hospice enjoy live music, stalls selling local dren’s hospice near ration for her sons going into busi- with a hoist, extra track, two new produce, apple-pressing, apple was so well used that the only lim- ness. shower cubicles and a bigger bobbing, games and entertainment. iting factor was the lack of chang- A cheque for £700,000 was origi- changing area, plus storage space Entry is £2 per adult. ing rooms. But that has now been nally donated to Demelza in No- for wheelchairs and buggies, lock- To book call 07528578198. resolved, thanks to a donation from vember 2011 by Aaron Stone in ers and a viewing area. All LOADS Ltd Loose or Bags 01622 873 231 Specialists in supplying aggregates Turf • Top Soil • Sand & Ballast Free Delivery All Bags £40 Bulk Bag Waste Collection www.allloads.co.uk email:[email protected]

10 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Candidates line up for by-election A BY-PASS for Leeds and Langley A housing officer for Maidstone CALLING ALL is listed as a key campaign mes- and Ashford councils for 20 years sage by one candidate standing for until his retirement, he has pledged a seat in Maidstone Council’s by- to represent the interests of the election on Thursday, September 8. area’s social housing tenants. His LANDLORDS Former borough councillor Bob three daughters live in the ward and Hinder (left) is he is the chairman of governors at one of five people Molehill Copse Academy. He previ- Do you have a to put their name ously worked in Fleet Street for the forward for the Daily Telegraph, The Sun and the property in Maidstone? Shepway South London Evening News. seat, vacant fol- Milden Choongo (64), from Shep- lowing the death way, will stand for the Liberal De- of Ukip council- mocrats, after fighting for a seat in lor David the ward in May. He will be looking LET Sargeant (77) after a heart attack on to secure investment for the area • We are currently May 13. from any development that results letting properties Mr Hinder (75), who is chairman from the Local Plan. faster than our of Boxley Parish Council and whose Jon Hicks, from Maidstone, will wife Wendy is on the borough coun- be standing as an Independent, competitors cil, will represent the Conservative while Dan Wilkinson, a tireless cam- Party. He believes a bypass will be paigner for the homeless and the IN 8 crucial to alleviate traffic in Willing- founder of Maidstone Momentum, DAYS ton Street, Senacre and Shepway. will be standing for the Labour John Barned (73), from , Party. He lives in Marden. • On average our hopes to retain the seat for Ukip. Mr Cllr Sargeant was the first Ukip properties are let Barned defected from the Tories in councillor to earn a place on Maid- LET 2015, after representing Harriet- stone Council and the first leader of within 2 weeks sham and Lenham for four years. the party in the borough.

• 95% of our IN 4 properties are let DAYS at the asking price LET • Our tenants stay 1 on average 2 /2 New boats to inspire success years MAIDSTONE Invicta Rowing Club (MIRC) celebrated four additions to its fleet at a boat naming ceremony. IN 5 The boats – a coxless four, two double sculls and a single scull – are DAYS named the Anne Salmon, Tom Saunders, Sue Mobbs and Alistair Hill after members of the club who have all volunteered their time and effort over many years on the club committee. “IF YOUR CURRENT AGENT Club chairman Harry Salmon said: "It is especially pleasing to have this IS STRUGGLING TO LET ceremony after such success for the Team GB rowing squad at Rio. British rowing is riding high and these new boats will help Maidstone Invicta YOUR PROPERTY THEN bring through another generation of athletes to compete at the highest levels of our sport." CALL ME TODAY” Director of rowing, Brian Humphris, said: “These new boats are all part Justine Dale of our drive to turn the club into the regional centre of excellence". Lettings Manager

‘Bit of a do’ for charity Bearsted Office A BIT of a (Hair) Do at a salon in a lot of people turning up and our Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ Vinters Park has raised more than stylists’ hard work. Bazza would £1,500 for Dementia UK. have been so proud.” Tel: 01622 737800 About 100 people turned out for a A guess-the-number contest, in trim and tidy at the Revolution which a mini was filled with bal- Office salon, where staff put their takings loons, and a raffle, with prizes do- Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN towards the charity, in memory of nated by The George at Leeds; The the owner’s father Barry Clarke. Chequers Inn at Loose; B&Q; Leeds Simon Clarke, who owns the Castle; Hollywood Bowl and The Tel: 01622 671200 salon in Snowdon Parade, said: Rose, Bearsted, helped swell the “This was a great success, thanks to funds to over £1,500. www.ferrisandco.net

Maidstone South September 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Birds killed at village pond Slimline fire engine is A PARISH council chairman has ap- pealed for information after wild birds were killed in a sickening at- tack at a village duck pond. way forward for crew Cllr Vianne Gibbons, of Loose, de- scribed the shocking devastation at MARDEN’S new fire engine was Brooks Field pond, caused by “a given a baptism of fire in a corn group of men dressed in camouflage field blaze at Leeds involving 300 outfits with dogs.” tonnes of straw. In the parish council newsletter, The new engine was one of two Loose Views, she said that the men called to the scene to stop the blaze threw rocks and stones at the bul- spreading to neighbouring fields. rushes. “As the ducks and their It is one of 29 smaller appliances chicks came out of the bulrushes, the that will be responding to 999 emer- men set their dogs on them, killing a gency calls across the county as part vast amount. It appears there is pos- of Kent Fire and Rescue’s changing sibly only one mallard and one fleet. moorhen with chicks left.” She said: “I was appalled to hear Weighing in at 12 tonnes – six this news. The ducks have always tonnes lighter than the service’s been a lovely feature in Loose for other appliances – it is packed with which we are very lucky. For them specialist equipment, including a Firefighters from Marden to be killed is very shocking.” thermal imaging camera. The millpond is looked after by Chris Colgan, from Kent Fire and with their new slimline fire volunteers after being taken over by Rescue, explained why Kent has engine and right, on the the parish council in 2000. opted for the new, slimline engines. scene of a blaze Cllr Gibbons asked for anyone He said: “A number of our fire en- who saw what happened at about gines were reaching the end of their KFRS found it was using 40% of its take advantage of new technology.” 8.30pm on Tuesday, July 12 to con- life. Traditionally, we’ve employed equipment 80% of the time, pre- As well as being lighter and nar- tact the police or the council “so that a ‘one size fits all’ model with the senting an opportunity to carry its rower, the appliances are more fuel we can try to stop these inhumane 18-tonne fire engines used for every equipment on a smaller fire engine efficient and £50,000 cheaper. Fire people from doing this again.” type of incident, but technology and to complement its larger vehicles. crews at Marden have received said they had not yet firefighting tactics have moved on.” Mr Colgan said: “We are continu- training for the appliance, which identified anyone they would like to Following an in-depth review ally looking at how we tackle fires will be in service for at least 15 speak with. into the types of incidents attended, and other incidents to make sure we years.

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Remember A Charity Week is an Remember A Charity has a clear annual awareness week designed objective: to make gifts in Wills the to encourage more people to social norm by doing what no consider leaving a gift to charity single charity can achieve on its when writing a Will. own. Three quarters of Britons While it has been a challenging regularly give to charity in their year for fundraising, by working lifetimes, yet only 7% currently include a charity when writing a together the consortium has had its Will. Nevertheless gifts in Wills are most successful year to date. still the foundation of many of The number of solicitors and Britain’s charities, creating more Will-writers mentioning charity than £2 billion each year, the equivalent of 19 Comic Reliefs. during the Will-writing process Without this income, many has reached a new high; and more charities would simply not exist than 1,000 firms have signed up as and others would have to cut Campaign Supporters. crucial services. Since the launch of the campaign in 2002, so much has However, there remains so much been achieved in terms of raising more to be done. Why don’t you awareness of charitable gifts in support this campaign and think wills amongst both the UK public about leaving a legacy to your WhWhereere there’stherree’s a and Will making professionals. favourite charity? WWillill tthere’shere’saws a waywawaayy YourYYoour Will can be a very powerful tool to help your loved ones. It can: • Ensurree your assets are left to the people you choose • Prrotect your family - appappoint guardians for your childrren • Save your family tax • Give you peace of mind, a very valuable commodity Just as you take expert advice when buying a new house or investment plan, it’s even more important to take expert advice regarding your Will. If you don’t have a Will – now is the time to discuss your wishes. If you have a Will – does it still reflect your wishes and in a tax efficient way? ToTo rreviewreeview your currcurrentreent Will at no charge contact us todaytoday.y.. Canterbury 01227 643266 Maidstone 01622 698051 TenterdenTTeenterden 01580 767540 www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monc.whitehead-monckton.co.uk WhiteheadWhitehead MoncktonMonckton LLimitedimited (no.(no. 008366029),8366029), rregisteredegistered iinn EnglandEngland & WWales.ales. RRegisteredegistered oofficeffice 7722 KKinging SStreet,treet, MMaidstone,aidstone, Kent,KKeent, MEME14www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk14 11BL.BL. AAuthoriseduthorised aandnd rregulatedegulated bbyy tthehe SSolicitorsolicitors RRegulationegulation AAuthorityuthority uundernder nno.o. 6608279.08279.

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Leave a legacy to RBLI, and support those who protected our country. From our Kent HQ, our charity has been providing vital support for wounded, injured John Clayton, Chief Executive of Hi Kent said and sick ex-service personnel, and employing veterans and disabled people since 1919. “Every penny we receive from a legacy will make a real difference to the work of Hi Kent, and will help us to continue the vital services we provide Contact: Emma Nugent, RBLI Aylesford, Kent to the one in six people living in Kent who are deaf or hard of hearing”. Tel: 01622 795900

• We offer help & advice

• Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed Hi Kentntt Do you want help writing your Will? Do you need powers of attorney? LOCAL deaf charity Registered charity no. 1052036 Do you need help with probate? Do you want to buy a funeral plan? PLEASE CONSIDER Camrass Wills gives help and MAKING A PROVISION IN advice with Wills, Powers of Attorney, Trusts, Inheritance tax, YOUR WILL FOR A Probate and Funeral plans. Peter Camrass has over 30 years’ DONAATTIOTION TO HI KENT experience in financial services and 6 years’ as a qualified legal adviser. YYoour supporrtt will help us to Peter is an affiliated member of continue supporrtting the 65,000 the Society of Will Writers, the largest self-regulatory trade body within the Will people in Kent who are living writing profession. with hearing loss

For a free initial consultation contact: Details: 01622 691151 Peter Camrass DipPFS Aff.SWW Email: [email protected] 01622 720985 Website: www.hikent.org.uk www.camrasswills.co.uk

Maidstone South September 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk Water advice Happy 111th birthday, Vera! SUPERCENTENARIAN Vera Pigott from Sutton Valence is fast heading to- wards being the oldest person in Britain. Vera, 111, is the fifth eldest person in the UK, having celebrated her latest birthday on July 8. ‘needs work’ She is just one year behind the oldest – Bessie Camm from A HOMEOWNER from Staple- He says other neighbours were Rotherham, born on June 20, 1904. hurst has taken his service equally in the dark about how to Vera, who lived in Langley prior provider to task for failing to offer turn off the supply in the street. to moving into the Sutton Valence accurate advice over the tele- Mr Wareham says: “The water Care Home 10 years ago, phone. board should be in a position to celebrated her birthday with a Mr Wareham (73), who had a offer clear advice to stop an emer- party, enjoyed a buffet with her water meter fitted at his home in gency turning into a disaster.” fellow residents and took part in a Goudhurst Road, says he made South East Water’s metering singalong to the sounds of local four calls to South East Water ask- manager Oluseyi Onifade said: entertainer Rob T and his ukelele. ing how he could turn the outside “We are sorry if there has been a The mother of four is visited stopcock off in an emergency. misunderstanding about how to every day by her son Graham, from He told the Downs Mail: “They turn the external stop tap off. Dickens Close, Langley, who joined are lovely, helpful people but they “We always try to resolve cus- in the celebrations. hadn’t a clue about the meter or tomer queries quickly the first time Vera married her late husband how to turn it off. They told me it a customer calls us. In this instance Douglas in 1924 and was widowed was a white lever on the side of the an appointment was made for our in 1988. She is still not quite the oldest living person in Kent; that title meter but mine hasn’t got one.” technician to go to the customer’s belongs to Alice Ducat, from Hythe, who is 61 days older than Vera. The pensioner, whose home was home to check the stop tap was The longest living person in the UK was Charlotte Marion Hughes, built in the 1800s, says call staff working correctly and show the who died in March 1993 aged 115 years and 228 days. should be trained to offer the cor- customer how to operate it. rect advice. He said: “Otherwise, if “It is rare a customer would need I have a problem in the house, it access to the external stop tap Police investigate vehicle fire will be flooded by the time anyone themselves, as turning the internal POLICE are investigating a fire near an orchard near Maidstone, ac- can tell me how to turn it off.” stop tap off would normally be suf- cording to reports. The blaze happened in Forge Lane, East Farleigh, when Eventually, an engineer was sent ficient to halt the flow of water. a 4x4 was torched which destroyed the car and spread to nearby apple bins. to find the stopcock – a small disc “If there is a leak which needs on the meter. Mr Wareham said: the external stop tap turned off, this Three fire engines and crews went to the scene at 9.45pm and spent an hour “The engineer accepted that it would normally be carried out by a fighting the flames. might need to be turned off if the plumber or a South East Water Initially reported as a bonfire which had gone out of control, it is reported stopcock inside failed.” technician.” police are now looking into the cause of the blaze. PLANT & EQUIPMENT HIRE Diggers/Dumpers & Rollers Towers & Ladders Lighting & Heating BATHING A PROBLEM? Breakers & Wackers Mixers & Sanders Specialists in walk in baths, showers and wet rooms. Powered Access & Cherry Pickers All other building tools & equipment £100 Worth of M&S HYDRAULIC including garden & vouchers with every landscaping equipment bathroom installed. HOSES Expiry 30th September 01580 891234 FLO Lodge Road, Staplehurst GAS www.acornhire.com Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.00pm & Sat 7.30 - 1.00pm LOCAL NEWS • Free Survey & Quote• Easy Access Shower/Bathrooms •Door Widening • Stairlifts • Care Home Adaptations • Full Installation • Open by appointment UPDATED DAILY DO YOU QUALIFY FOR OUR DISCOUNT? PLUS EVENTS - SERVICES & INFORMATION Discounts for over 60’s, Co-op members, ex-service personnel, - ITEMS FOR SALE AND MUCH MORE SSAFA & British Legion members Discount for Medway WRENS Unit 11, Newnham Shopping Village Bearsted, Maidstone Kent www.downsmail.co.uk

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16 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Thomas Cookie Castle florist’s Rio gold THIS is Leeds Castle’s head florist Louise Roots with the Rio arrangement that won her gold at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. books contract Her “exuberant and colourfully creative floral interpretation” of a Rio carnival float – which LONDONERS are going nuts for took a week to build – cookies produced in Maidstone. caught the eye of the It follows the latest coup by judges in the floristry Thomas Redgrove and his crew of marquee. Louise also cookie makers at Park Wood – who gave a floral have won a contract to supply the demonstration in the luxury department store Fortnum Roses and Floristry and Mason. Theatre before returning Thomas, from Beaver Road, home. Allington, say city boys and girls She said: “My ambition favour his flavour of pistachio, dark was to get on the chocolate and smoked sea salt. competition circuit, so to The founders of the Thomas be awarded gold was an Cookie Co, include Thomas (centre), proud of the team. The contract gave unexpected honour.” his fiancee Sonal Vaja and friend us a chance to demonstrate our abil- The castle’s chief David Winfield, were selling their ities to pass the selection process of executive, Sir David Steel, wares on a pop-up stall in Sevenoaks such a high-end shop, taking us to said: “Helped by Colin when a buyer from the London store the next level. We are expanding Swain, our carpenter and gave them a business card. rapidly now – it’s all very exciting.” her colleagues in the The deal with Fortnum and The company started out in floristry department, this Mason is the latest success for the Thomas’ garage in Allington but is is the first time Louise has Thomas Cookie Co, based in Park now based on the Bircholt Road Es- exhibited at an RHS Wood, after becoming a finalist in tate. It already sells its products at flower show and I am thrilled.” this year’s Taste of Kent Awards. several outlets, including Maidstone Louise leads a team of florists at the castle, designing flowers for more So far, they have delivered 1,000 Farmers’ Market. than 100 weddings, corporate functions and events, as well as providing cookies to the store and hope to Thomas said: “I’ve often thought fresh flower displays for the state rooms of Leeds Castle. maintain these quantities over the that Jubilee Square would be a per- This year’s Festival of Flowers at the castle – A Queen’s Castle – will summer, stepping up to 2,000 a fect spot for a farmers’ market and be opened by TV gardener Joe Swift and runs from September 24-28. week in the run-up to Christmas. that is proving to be the case.” Visitors will be able to attend workshops hosted by Louise and guest Thomas said: “Winning this con- Thomas now aims to have one floral designers. tract has been mind-blowing; I’m so outlet in every town in Kent.

Charity Night for Hi Kent WKHFRXQW\·V RZQ GHDI DQG hard ooff hearing charity to celebrate our 30th Anniversary Year!

“We have a passion for creating Strictly Dance Night custom made jewellery” Main Hall, Maidstone Grammar School, Barton Road, Maidstone ME15 7BT Saturday 17 September at 8.00pm Over 30 years experience Get ready for the new Strictly series ! Large portfolio of designs 'RQ·WMXVW ZDWFK LW - come along and learn it ! Dancing With Catherine will be teaching you the populararr Ballroom Expert advice and Latin dances. Catherine has been trained by Ian Waite Qualified staff DQG1DWDOLH /RZH IURP ¶6WULFWO\ &RPH 'DQFLQJ· Competitions with prizes Giftware & clocks also available Dancing display from Star Dance Club

Tickets £10.00 (to include a glass of Prosecco on arrival)

Kilburn Jewellers, 30 Royal Star Arcade, Maidstone ME14 1JL TToo book tickets call Hi Kent during office hours on 01622 691151 Telephone 01622 677841 | Email [email protected] (credit/debit cards accepted) Website www.kilburnjewellers.co.uk For information email [email protected]

Maidstone South September 2016 17 HAVEN North Street, Sutton Valence ME17 3HS Go Organic Localfarm and Organic shop (Opposite the village Hall) this September Selling a great selection of local & organic produce sourced direct from Organic Fortnight 3rd – 17th Kent Farms September 2016 Large selection These days regardless of diet, buying organic food is a smart choice. On Sale Now - Buying organically grown food—free of harmful chemicals, bursting of Kent Apples & new season with nutrition and taste is a direct vote for immediate health and Kent Cobnuts the future of generations to come. So go organic and buy from one HAVEN of your local suppliers. SUTTON VALENCE Andrew Garnham who delivers Riverford organic veg boxes to Local and Organic homes throughout Maidstone and the surrounding areas says farm shop “Organic fortnight is a great time to try a seasonal, organic veg box, fresh from the farm. Our customers tell us that our boxes inspire the perfect them in the kitchen. Fresh, colourful and full of variety, the veg partnership changes with the seasons so there’s always something interesting to cook with. The recipes in each box really help you get more of the & Opening green stuff into your life. Mon – Sat 8am to 6pm Haven Farm shop in Sutton Valence offers a great selection of local Sunday 10am to 4pm and organic produce which is sourced direct from Kent Farms. In addition to all the fresh produce on offer there is also a great BREADCheese MILKEggsCEREALHoneyFRUITPasta selection of local juices, pies quiches, ice creams and sorbets plus fresh bread and cheese. The popular farm shop is also home to the Nuts & RaisinsCHUTNEYSVegetablesPRESERVES Sutton Valence post office – making it the centre of the local ‘COOK’ READY MEALS & much more community.

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18 Maidstone South September 2016 Woolpack Good food at The Inn its best

It may be September now but Summer is not quite over – so while the weather is still warm, why not get out and about and visit some of the great and restaurants that your local area has to offer. Fine cask beers & lagers Just eight miles from Maidstone gardens and a play area. The you’ll discover The listed West varied menu features local top End Tavern so named because it quality meat and fish, from hearty lies in the part of Marden known Sunday roasts and steak and ale Home as the West End. Exposed beams pie, to vegetarian dishes, and an inglenook fireplace make sandwiches and seafood suppers, cooked this a real haven. In summer, the with a good selection of desserts. garden is filled with diners and The Woolpack Inn is also the meals & bar drinkers making the most of the perfect spot for passing cyclists sunshine. The menu is seasonal, and ramblers. snacks concise and carefully considered. The specials board features dishes It seems too early to plan for such as pan-fried duck with Christmas when we are enjoying Our opening hours are : cashews, or bacon and onion such glorious sunshine and pudding. Sunday lunch with hopefully, this will roll into an Tues til Friday 11am ‘til 3pm, 5pm ‘til 10.30pm crispy roasties, includes your own Indian Summer! In September, the Saturday 11am ‘til 10.30pm jug of gravy; all laid out on the Krishna Indian Restaurant, table to share, just as you would at Headcorn is planning two events. Sunday 12 noon ‘til 8pm home. On Saturday 10 September a Tapas Mondays closed except bank holidays The Woolpack Inn is a family- & Cocktails Night - £22. When a friendly country pub in the quiet feast of tasting dishes will be village of , with a good served, including Indian street Benover Road, Benover, Yalding, Kent ME18 6AS selection of cask beers, fine wines, food, washed down with delicious and home-cooked food. With old- cocktails. On Saturday 24 world decor and a log fire, this September there’s a Fresh Fish Tel: 01892 730356 historic pub has a traditional warm Night - £20. …and then Christmas [email protected] and friendly feel, with beautiful will be here before you know it! WEST END TAVERN Marden

Food Served Daily Indian Restaurant and Takeaway Lunchtimes Monday – Sunday 12pm - 2pm CHRISTMAS PARTY TIME Evenings Monday – DINNER & DISCO Saturday 7pm - 9pm WELCOME COCKTAIL

Christmas Party Poppadom & Mixed Starter Platter Bookings Any Main course of your choice Now Being Taken For Served with Saag Aloo, Channa Masala, December 1st – 23rd Pilau Rice & Naan Choice of desserts Call or email for our festive menu and for more information 01622 831956 [email protected] LADIES NIGHT Saturday 3rd December PARTY NIGHT Saturday 17th December

£22 per person

a: 41 High St, Headcorn p: 01622 890665 West End, Marden, Kent TN12 9JB

Maidstone South September 2016 19 News downsmail.co.uk Plan to remove Cash for youth development FIFTEEN organisations that provide activities to divert young people away from crime and antisocial behaviour have received £68,276 from Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott (pictured). They include Yalding-based dog waste bins Kenward Trust’s Think Differently project, which received £4,000 to MAIDSTONE Borough Council help fund an educational (MBC) is getting rid of dog waste intervention programme around bins to cut costs. the dangers of drink and drugs. The council claims the waste de- John Shanley, the trust’s project positories are in poor condition and manager, said this would allow its are to be removed. work to expand to take in more Now the authority's bosses are schools, youth projects and young advising dog-owners to clear up person housing projects. after their animals and that "any Young Kent’s Catalyst bin will do" from now on. programme, which has been A statement today from MBC awarded £4,800, will use the states: "Dog owners can use litter or money to support unemployed 16 household rubbish bins which suppose every bin must be taken to 25-year-olds, helping them to become more employable. means all the old dog waste bins on an individual basis." Julie Stones, Young Kent’s director of development, said: “The grant across the borough, many of which Cllr Marion Ring, chairman of will allow us to work with an additional 36 young people in the are in a state of disrepair, will be the communities, housing and en- Maidstone area, supporting them through engagement in positive taken out over the next few vironment committee said: “Most activities, linking with their communities and coaching them on a months. dog owners in Maidstone already pathway to a better future.” "Their removal will not only re- do the right thing and use one of duce the cost to dispose of the the many rubbish bins in the bor- waste, which if collected sepa- ough. rately, must be sent for specialist "We are sure that they will con- Shoplifter jailed after assault disposal but will also mean that, tinue to use any litter bins available A MAIDSTONE man was jailed after three shoplifting trips to the same su- unlike the dog waste bins, any of or their black wheeled bins to clear permarket in less than three weeks, and an attack on a PCSO. the council’s street cleansing team up after their dogs. Abraham Joseph (34), of Wallis Avenue, appeared at Medway Magis- can empty the litter bins to ensure “The removal of the old dog trates’ Court when he admitted assault and three counts of shoplifting from they do not become overfilled." waste bins will allow us to focus a store in Romney Place, Maidstone. The court heard that he stole £50 worth Tory borough councillor Matt our resources on keeping our bor- of meat on June 25, £40 worth on July 5 and £65 worth on July 10. Boughton only cautiously wel- ough clean while still supporting The assault on the PCSO took place in College Road, Maidstone on July comed the move, adding: "It de- those who dispose of their litter 22. Joseph was sentenced to 150 days in prison and was ordered to pay £155 pends where the waste ends up. I and dog waste responsibly.” compensation. Leaflet NEWDistribution Now TAKE AWAY MENU available Local Indian Restaurant with FREE DELIVERY Maidstone Open until 11pm every day Free bottle of and Malling’s beer with every No.1 Free £10 spentHandymanLocal

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Maidstone South September 2016 21 LEARNING FOR LIFE

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

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Maidstone South September 2016 23 LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE WORK experience is often a useful introduction to the real world of work – and sometimes a job. Bearsted graduate, BELLA FISH, tells the story of her placements ahead of a post-graduate course in journalism… IT WAS during university, I So, I began to apply for a decided that I wanted to go into a mixture of work experience in journalism-based career, but I London, such as copywriting. soon realised that I didn't have After much research and what me to spend several weeks at each the office I felt a lot more very much experience in the field seemed like hundreds of of their London-based comfortable being in a more close- to be 100% certain. applications, I was finally departments. knit environment. After speaking to some of my accepted onto a few internships. My time at all three companies From the first day, I was out lecturers at Oxford Brookes, they I was really surprised to find provided me with very different reporting, copywriting, helping advised me to apply for a few that Sky Sports, The Times opportunities, but I was given the with social media and being different work internships to newspaper and Take a Break chance to experience various asked for input with the ensure that I was going to begin magazine, had responded to me different journalistic roles. newspaper. It didn't take long to the right career path. within a couple of days, inviting I was able to provide the copy notice how much more involved for some of the features and also and hands-on you can be at a help out with the social media slightly smaller company. I would pages. Whilst at Sky Sports I highly recommended starting particularly enjoyed shadowing from a smaller/local workplace presenters Rob Wootton and environment - in any business! Rachel Wyse, where I was given a Throughout the past year, I first-hand insight into what goes have discovered just how on behind our television scenes important work experience is. and how a broadcast team Whether you want to stay in functions efficiently. education or to get a job it shows During my final few weeks of people that you've thought about university I received a call from what you want to do and that you my local newspaper, The Downs have a realistic idea of what Mail, who kindly said that I working life is like. would be able to have work The more experience you can experience with them, too. get before you apply for your first After just less than an hour in full-time job, the better.

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24 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News GCSE students make the grade GCSE students across the district are celebrating after going for gold and matching the national rise in A*-C grades this year. Exam officials confirm that 68.8% of entries scored A*-C (up 0.7%), while those achieving a C or above in English dipped, as did the overall pass rate (98.5%). However, across the country pupils fared better in maths, with 62.4% getting a grade C or above (up 4.8%). The dip in English has been put down to recent reforms, which have included a move to linear, non-mod- ular courses and less coursework and the removal of the "speaking and listening" element of the subject. The gender gap also continued, with 73.1% of girls’ exam entries achieving A*-C compared with Good news for these students from Invicta Grammar School for Girls, and 64.3% for boys. Exam officials also right, Mason Dadson, from Cornwallis School earned eight A to C grades highlighted a fall in the numbers of entries for biology, chemistry and our area.” physics – the first decline for a Out of 232 students at Cornwallis decade. School, 49% achieved the gold stan- This is how youngsters fared in dard of five A*-C passes, including our region: English and maths – an 11% increase At Invicta Grammar, 100% of stu- on last year’s results. dents achieved five A*-C grades and Overall, 61% achieved A*-C 72% of all grades were at A*/A. grades, with high achievers includ- More than three-quarters of all 181 ing Chloe Sinclair, Elaura Lacey and students gained five or more A* or A Megan Brailey (eight A*-A grades) grades and, over half eight A* or A and Mason Dadson, Reece Winter grades. and George Watts, who all received Head Julie Derrick said: “We are at least eight A*-C grades. exceptionally proud of our students Principal Isabelle Linney-Drouet and staff. If learning was an Olympic said: “I am delighted with this out- sport, our students and staff would standing set of results that students, have won gold.” parents and staff can be rightly Notable achievers included proud of.” Muskaan Ali, Mangat Guntash, Bry- At Sutton Valence School, one in St Simon Stock art students Gabriela Zorek, Adrianne Soliven and Coleen ony Jenner, Emily Lloyd, Shona three pupils achieved five A grades Waterton with teacher May Farrell, and below, Megan Parrott, Scott Fox, Aaron Mitchelmore, Michalina Michalska, or better, with 69% of passes at A*-B Biggs and Bobby Liston collect their results at New Line Learning Academy Yasmin Pewsey and Sophie Scott, grades. who achieved straight A*s. Top performers included Ellie Lucy Brice, Maddie Campbell, Agu-Benson, who achieved 11 A*s; Evie Horner, Lydia Levett and Suha Olivia Ferris (nine A*s) and Miah achieved 12 A* or A grades Francesca Ash (seven A*s). Twins Olasubomi and Olamid Head Bruce Grindlay said: “Our Tolu-Ogunpolu achieved 21 A/A* teaching staff and students have grades between them, seven of them demonstrated how much one can A*s. improve, given the right environ- At St Simon Stock Catholic ment, focus and support. We are de- School a total of 68% of pupils at- lighted with this year’s results and tained A*-C grades in English and despite the large year group and a maths, with 97% earning A*-Cs in more diverse cohort, the pupils’ English language, and 24 earning hard work has paid dividends.” A*A grades across more than half At Maidstone Grammar School their subjects. Ryan Ellesmere, Carol for Girls, students notched up an- Mealin-Vazquez, Aiden Huynh- other “pleasing set of results”, with 61% of achieving five or more A*/A Those earning special mention in- cured A*-C grades. Nguyen and Ben George averaged cluded: Sammi Ta (10 A*s, two As), Notable successes included Vicky A*A grades across nearly all their grades, and 37% at least eight at these grades. Zak Allam (seven As, two Bs and Harris, who secured As in English subjects. three Cs), Rukiya Choudhury (four language and literature, as well as A third of students achieved an Congratulations go to Lauren O and Grace S who both earned 11 A* A*s, five As, and three Bs), Brooke six Bs; Angel Limbu (an A in PE and average of more than one whole Ellis (two A*s, eight As and two Bs) six Bs), Bobby Liston (an A in art and grade higher than their target in all grades. Head Deborah Stanley said: and Charlie-May Loft (two A*s, six a B in PE), and Craig Lionet (A their subjects, with exceptional re- As, three Bs). grades in Mandarin and maths, as sults for Wiktoria Miszczak, Zachary “These results reflect the huge amount of work by our students, to- Head Jane Prideaux said: “This well as six Bs). Jones and Ellie Hodgetts. year group worked extremely hard Principal David Elliott said: “Well Principal Brendan Wall said: “For gether with the support and encour- agement of the teaching staff.” and we are all very proud of their done to all our students, but in par- the last few years our students have outstanding achievements.” ticular to those who worked excep- made significantly greater progress At Maplesden Noakes, 56% of students achieved five or more A*- Of 115 students who sat GCSEs at tionally hard to achieve excellent than students in schools nationally, New Line Learning Academy,in results, which are testament to their and this includes selective schools in Cs - 82% including English and 65% maths. Loose, 1.6% achieved A* and 43% se- dedication and efforts.”

Maidstone South September 2016 25 News | A-level results downsmail.co.uk

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

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

26 Maidstone South September 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Accident brings MP pitches in at club MAIDSTONE and the Weald MP Helen Grant returned to the hockey pitch last weekend, 35 years after her last game as a teenager. Maidstone Hockey Club’s hockey festival was organised to attract mem- calls for bypass bers and encourage former players back to the sport whilst also celebrat- ing the women’s team GB hockey gold medal in Rio. Players of all ages THE issue of traffic volumes a car coming in the opposite direc- turned up throughout through a village has been high- tion and sort of swerved and hit me. the day to take part in lighted again after a teenager was My cousin and I thought he might the event which hit by a van. have been going a bit fast.” ended in a barbecue The 16-year-old from Sutton Va- Felicity did not suffer serious in- at the club house in lence was returning to her cousin’s jury in the collision although her South Park, on Arm- house in Leeds after a trip into Maid- arm was bruised and sore. strong Road. stone, and was thrown to the ground She added: “If this had been a Mrs Grant, former by the impact. smaller child, they’d have been hit Minister for Sport, The vehicle’s wing mirror was on the head and that would have said: “I’ve been look- ripped off by the strike and sent fly- been a different story altogether.” ing for an excuse to ing down the pavement, near Kent county councillor and long- get back into hockey. Burgess Hall Drive. time supporter of a relief road for the I really miss my team Felicity Poulter (pictured) said: “It village, Gary Cooke, said he was sports and I used to all happened so “horrified” by Felicity’s ordeal. play hockey at county quickly. I felt He said: “To be honest, I am ab- level in Cumbria. The being hit from be- solutely horrified that the problems Maidstone Hockey hind on the experienced by the village should Festival was just the upper arm and have resulted in a child being hit.” chance I was looking then being Cllr Cooke – who hosted a site for. The players and knocked over. meeting in the village to talk to resi- coaches were warm, “In fairness, the dents concerned about vehicle vol- welcoming and lovely driver got out umes and speeding – said that a and I hope to become a regular at Maidstone Hockey Club if my schedule and was so apologetic. He seemed relief road had to go on the table allows”. really nice and genuinely sorry and again. Chairman of Maidstone Hockey Club, Matt Evans, said “Our festival was gave me a hug. Another car stopped Upper street resident Rob Jackson part of the national 'I Am Team GB', 'Join in' campaign. Over 140 men, to see if I was okay and some of the has been mobilising villagers over ladies and juniors took part in games throughout the day and attended a villagers came out to see if I was all traffic and fears it may increase fur- coaching session. The event was a resounding success and Maidstone right. ther with three more large housing Hockey Club are looking forward to the new season with a raised aware- “He said he got too close to me be- developments planned off the A274 ness and support for the game following Team GB's gold medal in Rio.” cause he had to get out of the way of at Langley.

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Maidstone South September 2016 27 News | Hospitality downsmail.co.uk Vineyards spread across Kent THOUSANDS of rows of vines growing in Aylesford’s backyard have helped to put English wines on the world map. The 115-acre vineyard at the foot of Blue Bell Hill was acquired and planted by Tenterden-based Chapel Down in 2008 and is now the largest in the south east. Regarded as one of the finest production sites in the region, its success led the company to expand further, with a site nearby at Box- ley. Now a Chardonnay, named after the Kits Coty monument near the Aylesford estate, has been recog- nised as one of the UK’s best white wines, with the 2013 bottles selling for about £20 each. And after Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch raised the question in Par- liament as to why embassies around the world were serving French instead of UK wines, Chapel Down products are now re- pole group is by invitation only to be “very promising”. He said: year, is looking amazing. “It is hard puted to be included in the gov- and the winemaker will feature in “The vines are looking fantastic. to imagine the vines were only ernment’s catering lists. this elite commercial community, They were well watered in June planted a little over a year ago as “It caused such a fuss, but the alongside iconic brands such as and now the summer is really un- they are now tall and strong and al- Foreign Office and Defra took Alexander McQueen, Mulberry derway, they are flourishing. De- ready needing a trim.” note,” she said. and Rolls Royce. spite some cold and wet weather at Meanwhile, the company’s The company has also been se- After an excellent vintage in the start, it warmed up just in time newest vineyard – 40 acres at Sand- lected to join an elite group of 2015, Richard Lewis, Chapel to provide ideal conditions.” hurst, Kent - was also looking ex- Britain’s finest 170 luxury brands. Down’s head of viticulture, reck- He said the 83-acre vineyard at cellent and promising to be a very Membership of the exclusive Wal- ons this year’s Aylesford crop looks Boxley, which was planted last productive site. Future is looking rosé after couple’s first wine harvest A COUPLE are toasting the suc- our grapes were ready last Septem- cess of the first wine they have pro- ber/October and we started to duced five years after setting up make the wine, with help from their vineyard. Plumpton agricultural college in Henry Boorman and his girl- East Sussex. friend Christina McQuillan (pic- “But when we tasted the first bot- Funds raised tured) took on the 20-acre Redhill tles in January/February of this Farm Estates in Wateringbury, with year, well, that was pretty special. for brewery the aim of one day producing a “Henry set out five years ago to “strawberries and cream” rosé produce a ‘strawberries and cream’ CHAPEL Down and its Curious wine. rose wine and it was incredible Drinks beer and cider division This summer, the dream became when we realised we had made it. will start work on a new brewery reality and they have enjoyed sell- Some French rosé wines can be in Ashford after raising £1.16m outs of their stock at local pubs, in- very sweet, but this tastes like sum- from supporters. cluding the village’s North Pole mer. The successful crowd-funding hostelry and The George at Yald- “Our white wine has tones of initiative follows a 40% annual ing. melon and lemon and is similar to a increase in Curious beer and cider sales – driven by top end Priced at £15 a bottle, with a Bac- Sauvignon Blanc, but fruitier. restaurants, bars and hotels. chus white wine at £12.50, the “We didn’t think our wine would The new brewery – next to product is aimed at the mid-mar- be ready yet or that we would have Ashford International Station – ket, and not the higher end domi- made such a good quality wine.” will allow the business to nated by Kent vineyards Hush Henry is co-owner of a bar in consolidate its brewing and Heath and Chapel Down. Brixton and learned his trade as a It is available in micro-pubs and a publishing. sommelier at The Swan at West bottling operations, something “But it never felt like work and seen as crucial to the success of bar in London, as well as online. Malling. it’s lovely living in such a beautiful the UK drinks’ industry, Henry and Christina, both 31, are He worked as a design consult- according to its CEO Frazer enjoying the fruits of their labour. area with such views. ant in London to pay for converting Thompson–avocalsupporter “We would pick grapes and be “Of course, we had our ups and his family’s estate into a vineyard – of bespoke beers and wines and on the wine presses until 2am,” she downs along the way, but we are and now he and Christina are reap- a critic of “big brewery explained. pretty chuffed at what we have ing the rewards. blandness”. “I still work in London and achieved.  Visit the website at www.red- would be up at 6am for my job in “It was exhilarating when we felt hillestate.com

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

Maidstone South September 2016 29 News downsmail.co.uk Fruit farm thefts MORE than £6,000 worth of fruit has been stolen from Kent farms - Councils join to take including one report in the Maid- stone area. Officers have received reports that strawberries and cherries have been stolen from various farms in- on Royal Mail’s site cluding at Kenward Road, Yalding. It was reported that around THE Royal Mail site in the centre of dents will be proud of and which £2,000 worth of fruit was stolen be- Maidstone has been bought jointly will bring the jobs and homes that tween July 26 and 27. by Maidstone Borough Council the town needs.” There were three reported thefts and Kent County Council. Gary Cooke, KCC’s cabinet mem- near Tonge, on July 19, 22 and 26. Downs Mail understands the price ber for corporate and democratic It is reported that around £1,600 tag was somewhere between £4.5m Services and a local Maidstone worth of fruit was stolen. and £6m, according to a well-placed member said: “Kent County Coun- Officers are also investigating a source. cil is keen to see and help promote reported theft in Faversham, The former Maidstone mail centre schemes that benefit and promote where around £2,400 of soft fruit and delivery office site in Sandling Kent as a great place to live, to work was stolen in July. Road will be replaced by a “land- and to have fun. PC Marc Pennicott of the Rural Maidstone East railway station and Task Force, said: “These thefts are mark” mixed-use development in- the former Old Vic pub. "Maidstone is our county town all very similar so we believe they cluding retail space, homes, offices, “The masterplan is expected to and should reflect values and may be linked.” increased parking and an improved take three to five years to complete. lifestyles that we wish to promote Contact police on 01795 419119 interchange between buses, trains Consultants will be appointed to en- throughout Kent. The regeneration quoting reference XY/27859/16. and taxis. sure that the scheme is as attractive of the Maidstone East area provides The purchase of the 3.5-acre site, to as possible to private sector partners a unique opportunity to do exactly be completed in September, will and is welcomed and supported by that and in a way that also provides Friends need you “create a better place and it is also a residents and local businesses.” financial benefit to the county’s THE League of Friends at Maid- great business opportunity for both Cllr Fran Wilson, leader of Maid- ratepayers.” stone Hospital is in urgent need of councils”. stone Borough Council, said: “This “Our property team has been volunteers to staff its hospital shop, According to a joint statement: is a strategically important regener- working on this scheme with col- host the trolley service, man its “The two authorities will seek to ation project and by working in part- leagues from Maidstone ever since busy tea bar and sell books. If you produce a master plan for the site. It nership to purchase the site we can Royal Mail took the decision to mar- can spare a few hours a week, call is hoped that as this develops, they secure the best outcome for the ket the site and I am delighted to see Jacqui on 01622 224781. Money will be able to promote collaboration county town. all those efforts come to fruition.” raised by the Friends is used to buy with other landowners in the vicin- “The area has been an eyesore for A KCC spokesman refused to dis- medical equipment and make im- ity, which would form the basis for a a number of years. Working together close the price tag, which it claims is provements. broader scheme encompassing we can create something that resi- commercially sensitive. ARTIFICIAL UPTO 20% GRASS SALE OFF

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30 Maidstone South September 2016 News downsmail.co.uk Charity day is childs’ play WORKERS at Maidstone Town on the last day to raise money for Post Office made their last day it. We had a good laugh and quite a child’s play before moving to a lot of people were putting money new site. in the bucket so the fund must have Staff at the Bank Street store done well.” grabbed dummies and nappies and For some longer-serving col- dressed up as under-fives to help leagues, the post office move is counter clerk Jeanette Cooper raise their second as they worked at the money for the Oliver Fisher Special previous site in King Street, which Care Unit at Medway Maritime closed nearly 10 years ago. Hospital. Jeanette Cooper (second from right) with colleagues in fancy dress The Bank Street branch closed on The unit saved the life of her 17- mum Nicki, along with her mum, The fancy dress day marked the week premature grandson, Henry Sharon Terry. post office’s move to new premises Wednesday, August 17 with its suc- Cooper, of , whose Jeanette said: “Henry is doing within the WH Smith store on cessor opening next day. No jobs story touched Downs Mail readers’ fantastically well. He’s a happy lit- Week Street, less than 250m away. have been lost in the transfer. hearts. Jeanette and her family have tle boy and we get beautiful smiles Jeanette said: “It is a sad occa- The new opening hours are from been fundraising for the charity from him.” Since he was born sion, but we have decided to go out 9am to 5.30pm Monday, Wednes- and their next event will be a 5k weighing just 1lb 2oz last Decem- with a bang. We had a collecting tin day, Thursday and Friday; 9.30am run at Capstone Park, Medway. ber, the youngster has progressed in the post office for the baby unit to 5.30pm on Tuesday and 9am to Jeanette will run with Henry’s to a healthy 10lb. and the staff suggested dressing up 12.30pm on Saturday. Baroque night Hunt for suspect after burglary THE Pepusch Consort is to perform an evening of baroque chamber POLICE have issued a picture of volved in what police described house in Marley Road in a silver music in aid of the Baptist church a man they want as an aggravated burglary. vehicle. Two mobile phones are in . to question The computer-generated pic- reported to have been stolen dur- Tickets for the concert at the about a raid by a ture builds on the details already ing the incident at about 5pm on church, which starts at 7.30pm on gang of four at a held by police of a slim man, Thursday, July 14. Saturday, September 24, are £8. home in Harriet- about 5ft 11in tall, who spoke Anyone with information is To reserve yours call Pat King on sham. with a local accent. asked to call Kent Police on 01622 01622 851843 or Stephen Morris The man, who The residents were threatened 604100 quoting YY/015480/16 or on 850948 or send an email to was wearing a by the suspects. No one was hurt. Kent Crimestoppers, anony- [email protected]. hoodie, was in- The gang drove off from the mously, on 0800 555111. T. 01622 201078 J.L.B M.07854 529434 Property Maintenance [email protected] Quality Roofing at Affordable Prices New Tiled Roofs UPVC Fascias, General Roofing Soffits & Repairs Guttering Moss Removal Felt Flat Roofing Annual Gutter Cleaning Service Gutters & Fascia Cleaned To A High Standard Inside And Out All Repairs Broken Brackets Undertaken..... Leaking Gutter Joints Down Pipes So To Ensure Your Gutters Are Flowing Prices Start From As Little As £20.00 Blockage Free This Winter Call Our Team For A Free & Friendly Quote

Maidstone South September 2016 31 News | Childhood cancer downsmail.co.uk Taylor’s gaming wish comes true WHEN Microsoft agreed to give Taylor Scott access to their global world of game-making, it was a dream come true for the Invicta Girls’ Grammar School student. Taylor, from Penenden Heath, describes her date with Microsoft’s designers at Rare Studios in Leices- ter as simply “amazing”, with playing Sea of Thieves as one of the highlights. The 14-year-old, who was diag- nosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia last year, was given ac- cess to a secret project the Rare team is working on and advice on the best way to break into the in- dustry, after expressing an interest in a career in video game design. Make a Wish UK arranged the trip for mum Tanya, dad Jamie and their only daughter, who was di- agnosed just after her 13th birth- day on Christmas Day, after complaining of tiredness and pains in her bones. A Rare spokesman said: “It was our very great pleasure to host a visit for Taylor and her parents. and then laughed. It was a dream!” everything. It was a bit flash for us, Taylor at Microsoft with mum Tanya She had an incredible time meeting Taylor, who is undergoing but that’s what making a wish is all and dad Jamie and below, in hospital our development teams and get- chemotherapy treatment which about.” ting a unique behind-the-scenes she hopes will finish in April, also Asked what advice Taylor had glimpse into how challenging, but has to contend with vascular for another wish child fighting a wonderful, the game-making busi- necrosis – a complication resulting serious illness, she said: “Stay ness can be. from her steroid treatment that af- strong and believe it’s going to get “We were so pleased she enjoyed fects the blood supply to her hips, better. If you don’t stay strong then her time with us and we hope to knees and left shoulder. This it’s going to be a much harder jour- have inspired a future employee.” means she currently uses a wheel- ney.” Taylor’s mum Tanya said: “Tay- chair to get around. Taylor’s parents and friends now lor knows what she wants to do However, there was no need to hope that when her treatment ends after school for definite now. She is worry on the day of her trip be- and her mobility improves to take a big gamer and plays Xbox, so cause Make-A-Wish UK, sent a her to Japan to see the country’s art when Make-A-Wish UK asked her limousine to pick the family up and culture, which she loves. They what she wanted to do, she said from Gladstone Road. have already raised £8,000 in antic- Microsoft straight away. Tanya laughed: “Everyone was ipation. “Although she didn’t think it looking through the window as we Mum Tanya said: “Her art is her would be possible, when she found drove along, thinking we were su- therapy, and once she is mobile out she was going to Rare she cried perstars; there was a disco ball and again, we will whisk her away.” “Stay strong and believe it’s going to get beer. If you don’t stay strong then it’s going to be a much harder journey”

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

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Maidstone South September 2016 33 News downsmail.co.uk Town’s treasures on show MAIDSTONE is to join the country’s biggest heritage festival, celebrating the county town’s history, architecture, and culture over four days of free events. Taking place from September 8- 11, Heritage Open Days is a na- tional event that sees more than 40,000 volunteers across England organise over 5,000 events. Maidstone will be contributing seven unique experiences in Maid- stone this year, encouraging resi- dents and visitors to “treasure your treasures”. The open days aim to champion their local heritage and show sup- port for the cultural and historic assets on their doorsteps. According to Maidstone Bor- The Archbishops’ Palace and, right, All Saints’ Church ough Council, which is helping to whitt-Drake Museum of hosting a pop-up museum on co-ordinate the open days, the Carriages across all four days, op- September 10. town has a “colourful history posite the Archbishops’ Palace. It  Mote Park is host to guided shaped by battles, revolts, and mad is open from noon to 4pm daily. tours on Friday, September 9, to priests and, later, industrialists and  All Saints’ Church on the river- discover more about the history Victorian benefactors”, all of which side is open from 10am to 4pm of the park. Tours are free but have left their mark on the town. across all four days. Entrance is limited to 20 places, with pre- Councillor David Pickett, chair-  The Archbishops’ Palace will free. A tour of the bell tower must booking advised. man of the Maidstone Borough be open to the public from 10am be pre-booked.  Maidstone Museum is offering Council’s heritage, culture and to 4pm on Thursday, September  Corpus Christi Hall in Earl visitors a chance to “Explore leisure committee, said: “Whether 8, providing a chance to view the Street will also be open on all Egypt” on September 10, with a it’s uncovering the magnificent magnificent ragstone palace, orig- days, from 10am to 4pm. The special peek at the Egyptian col- and important collections our mu- inally built for the Archbishops of 12th-century hall will host special lections. Places are free but lim- seums, or investigating the historic Canterbury and now home to the exhibitions by Maidstone Histori- ited to 15 people with architecture and cultural signifi- Kent Register Office. Free tours cal Society on September 8 and 9, pre-booking. cance of structures often closed to are available at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, featuring displays of photo-  At St Michael & All Angels’ the public, this celebration of local 2pm and 3pm for a maximum of graphs, documents, maps and Church in Tonbridge Road on treasures will make everybody 20 people, and must be booked in newspapers reflecting Maid- September 10, visitors can enjoy a proud of the region’s history.” advance. stone’s heritage. Maidstone Area peek inside. It is open from 10am For more information, click onto  Enjoy free entry to the Tyr- Archaeological Group will be to 4.30pm. www.visitmaidstone.com. Call for waste views INCREASING recycling and re- ducing the amount of rubbish cre- ated are central aims identified by Kent County Council (KCC) in a re- view of waste management. In spite of initiatives to burn rub- bish at Aylesford; turn glass into jewellery, food into compost and cooking fat into fuel, KCC’s draft Waste Disposal Strategy says more needs to be done to improve Kent’s 70% recycle rate. The report says more budget sav- Chair boost to Blue Bus ings are needed. It also notes that domestic rubbish is expected to rise FOUR members of The Rotary Club been taken ill or injured to the bus, or composted is treated at the by 22% by 2031, from 711,000 to of Maidstone Riverside visited the where we can treat them for minor Allington Waste to Energy facility town’s Urban Blue Bus to officially problems. 864,000 tonnes, as the more houses near Maidstone, where it is burned hand over the patient chair that the “Where it is necessary to call for are built and the population in- under controlled conditions to pro- club had recently donated. an ambulance, the chair is a quick creases. duce steam, which is used to gen- Past President Mary Lynn, and easy means for us to have the The county council, which uses erate electricity. The facility is volunteered to try out the chair and patient ready when it arrives.” private firms The Slattery Partner- operated by Kent Enviropower. the Urban Blue Bus team Every Saturday night, the Urban ship, Commercial Services Kent, KCC is asking the public to com- demonstrated how much easier this Blue Bus team will be available in FCC Environment and Biffa to ment on its aims and ambitions be- chair is to use rather than the old the town centre to provide medical manage its collection services, says fore the detail of how they might be standard type. facilities to those presenting with it will continue to commission serv- achieved is consulted on further. It The leader of the Bus Team, Val minor injuries. ices but with an even greater em- has pledged to review its strategy Jacobs, explained that the chair has They also provide emotional phasis on reducing rubbish going every five years. already been put to good use on support, drug and alcohol to landfill, burning less, recycling To view and respond to the draft many occasions. counselling and other support to and reusing more and using tech- waste management strategy visit She said: “ We often have to move vulnerable people in need of nology to improve the customer ex- www.kent.gov.uk/wastestrategy. young people from where they have assistance and practical help. perience. Comments will be taken up until Waste that is not reused, recycled October 2.

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Maidstone South September 2016 35 downsmail.co.uk Joan Benne who was at one point the Priest in Charge. locally throughout his Obituaries Susie’s funeral took place at Saint life. JOAN Benne (88) lived for 54 years in Margaret’s Church, Hucking. A church bar- Born in Suon Va- Coxheath and had previously lived in becue which had been scheduled for the lence and raised in Bearsted and Staplehurst. same day was cancelled as a mark of respect. Hollingbourne, David Born Joan Houilibecq on the island of aended Swadelands Guernsey she was evacuated to Dorset and School and worked as Lancashire before Douglas Grist a mechanic with his returning once the father-in-law. His pas- island was reclaimed DOUGLAS “Doug” Grist (86) lived the final years of his life in Siingbourne but had sion for cars remained from the Nazis. with him throughout his life. Joan met her lived in the Maidstone and Medway areas since he was a small boy. Married for 35 years to Julie, David was fa- husband of almost 65 ther to Katie and Grace. Katie said: “Our fa- years, Roy, when she Born in Bexhill to parents from Rainham in Kent, he returned lo- ther’s passion for cars was a massive part of worked in a café on his life and he owned a number of vintage Guernsey, and the cally and remained in the area apart from a and classic cars; he loved taking us to car couple originally shows. moved to the spell on national serv- ice with the RAF in “Our father was outgoing, sociable and the Maidstone area to live with his parents in kind of person who is loved by everyone.” Bearsted. Norfolk. Doug’s local homes David leaves his wife, daughters, grand- Joan was mother to Paul, Alan, Peter and son Jack and sisters Rosemary and Patricia. Neil and worked as an orderly at Linton included , Hospital for 22 years. Langley, Suon Va- Roy said: “Joan was devoted and selfless, lence, and Bearsted. Julie May Hughes she dedicated her life to looking after her He was known lo- family and being the best mother to her sons cally from his years running the family busi- THE death has been announced of Julie May and best grandmother to all eight of her ness E H Grist and Sons, a wholesale fruit Hughes (57) who worked in Marks and grandchildren. and vegetable business based in Hedley Spencer and, more recently, as landlady of “As we had the time and opportunity later Street near Maidstone Prison. Doug and his The Windmill pub in Burham. in our lives, we travelled all over the world, brother took the business over from their fa- She leaves her partner Mike, sons Simon and Joan had been to see our eldest son in ther. When it closed Doug worked for Trebor and Ben, her brother Chris, her sister Lesley New Zealand nine times as well as making Sharps in Maidstone. and other members of her extended family. trips to places like Hawaii, India, Singapore Doug was married twice. He and first wife and mainland USA. June had children Lesley, Judith and Martin “We also travelled on our own closer to and with second wife Dee he had children Marshall Vine home in countries like France.” Tracy and Stuart. Judith said: “My father THE death of Maidstone’s Marshall Vine Joan leaves her husband, three of her sons loved the outdoors and could take pleasure (73) made local headlines because of his (son Peter pre-deceased her), six surviving in a lot of life’s simple things. personal quest to save and restore the grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. “When he retired he bought land near Ul- paddle steamer The Medway Queen. combe and grew plum trees and Christmas Marshall was born and brought up in trees, as well as keeping sheep and chickens. Maidstone. Born with Doreen Frost “He sold his produce at market in Ashford cerebral palsy, Mar- and kept this business going for 15 years. He DOREEN Frost (64) lived the final 20 years of shall was eight years also toured the south east of England and old before he could her life in Coxheath and had lived in the Wales in a camper van with my stepmother. local area all her life. walk unaided, but he He even took her to the place in Wales where completed teacher Born Doreen Funnel, in Charing, she he was evacuated as a boy. moved to Yalding as a very young girl and training and taught “In later years they had a permanent cara- woodwork, metal- later lived in Nelestead. van at a site in Dorset and spent their sum- Doreen’s working life included time spent work and history at St mers there.” John Fisher’s School in working in a shoe shop in Maidstone and Doug leaves his wife, four children – about 30 years working for ICI in Yalding, Chatham. daughter Lesley died in 2011 – 10 grandchil- Marshall was also known for his involve- where she started off in the production dren and three great-grandchildren. department before moving on to office work ment in Scouting and his passion for steam for the company. railways; both models and lifesize. Doreen was married for about six years Ian Hodgson It was his discovery of the roing hulk of earlier in her life but spent over 20 years with the Medway Queen and the ensuing cam- paign to restore the vessel that brought him partner Ted Homewood. TRIBUTES have been paid to a father-of-two the most local aention and he served as Ted said: “Apart from our life locally and Ian Hodgson, who died when he lost control chairman to the society working to bring the all the things we did, Doreen’s big passion of his motorbike on the A228 between Pad- Medway Queen back to full working order. was travelling. She had been to many places dock Wood and East Peckham. The Medway Queen Society paid tribute and we had cruised and flown all over the Son Chris posted a to him on its website and a collection at world; as far away as Australia and to exotic photograph of a Marshall’s funeral will go to the society. places including Bali, Hawaii, the Galapagos Ducati motorbike on Marshall leaves his sister Diana and her Islands and the Far East. Amongst her Facebook, in tribute to family. favourite trips was a visit to Bora Bora.” his father. Amongst Doreen leaves her partner and her sister those paying tribute Freda and brother Tony. was Donna Williams, who posted: “My The Stone Shop most sincere condo- Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, Susie Hoare lences to the whole lettered and installed anywhere. HOLLINGBOURNE’S Susan “Susie” Hoare, family, God bless x” Inscriptions added to existing memorials Ian leaves his wife Tracy and sons Chris who lived in Hadley Gardens, was known Renovations and memorial and Stephen. for her involvement in village life. cleaning She worshipped regularly at All Saints' Parish Church and was the sister of the The Stone Shop Reverend Robin Gill; a local clergyman who David Sladden Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. is currently a member of the team working DAVID William Charles Sladden (58) lived 01622 726633 in the Leeds and Hollingbourne Benefice and in Bearsted for around 20 years and lived

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

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

Ramblin’ Man success I would invite him to look at the park and Less talk, more action the damage that heavy vehicles have done to WE HAVE been overwhelmed by the the grass. IT HAS become known to me that my name positive feedback we have received from our The main point which Mr Ingham does has twice been mentioned in your staging of the Ramblin’ Man Fair festival at not appear to understand are the words “too publication in connection with the Mote Park, Maidstone. loud”. disgraceful appearance of the parade of We had more than 22,000 people on site Mote Park is absolutely wrong as a venue shops on Madginford estate. over the weekend. There was a fantastic for this event. It is in the middle of housing, On the first occasion, this was in a report atmosphere with no trouble. Mote Park is a so a great many Maidstone residents will be of a parish council meeting, and secondly in wonderful location and we are very happy subject to unwelcome noise. Too many an uncalled-for and ill-informed comment to be able to put money back into the local aendees use adjacent streets as long-term on your leers page. community via the council. car parks, causing traffic problems. It is, of course, always a mistake to rush We had customers from all over Europe I also take issue with Mr Ingham’s claim into print when in posession of only half the and the UK and we think the festival acts as that it is a highlight in the Maidstone story – a mistake unfortunately made by Mr a great showcase for Maidstone and Kent. calendar. I dare say that there are some Roy F. Wilsher, of Blenheim Close. Bearsted, We are aware of 35 complaints made to people who like this sort of ear-shaering in his leer on the subject. the council relating to noise levels. Whilst we experience, but I would think that for most It was, in fact, the eyesore of those were well within agreed noise levels we take people it is something to be avoided. unswept guers fronting the shops that first the concerns of any residents very seriously. I doubt very much that, unless forced so to took me to a parish council meeting. We will be continuing to work with the do, Mr Ingham will make any changes to the My subsequent words of praise were council to minimise any disruption to level of noise. It has never been reduced in directed at the harmony existing between residents whilst working very hard to make the past. How many remember the problems councillors in recent months, and equally this event a continued highlight of the with the Radio 1 Roadshow, where those directed at Cllr Ash, the longest serving Maidstone calendar in the coming years. monitoring noise levels proved impotent to member of the council, who took it upon Chris Ingham, Spirit of Rock owner and enforce the limits? The limits are far too himself to take a shovel and broom to the Creative Director of Ramblin Man generous. If noise could be heard as far said guers on Sunday morning. away as Hucking, it must have been Sadly the area is again looking sad, less Park is the wrong venue intolerable outside the park. than a month after this 83-year-old also IN response to the points raised by Chris The county showground has excellent weeded and swept it, completely filling a Ingham, the positive feedback he received parking and toilet facilities, is easily black bag in the process. undoubtedly came from the aendees, not accessible and well away from large So now, how about you, Mr Wilsher? Are the surrounding residents. residential areas. It is the obvious place for you as good with a shovel and broom as An event like this can do very lile to occasions like this, if Mr Ingham is unable to with a pen? Or should we all sit and wait showcase Maidstone and Kent. Aendees refrain from bringing his noisy event to the until “they” do something? stay or camp on site, then go home, with area. Terence M Turner, Madginford Road, lile benefit to the local economy. David Hacke, Park Way Bearsted Contact our team ... Got something to say? Simon Finlay Diane Nicholls Dawn Kingsford Write to The Editor, 2 Forge House, Editor Assistant editor Journalist Bearsted Green Business Park, Maidstone ME14 4DT or email simon.fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] simon.fi[email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233

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42 Maidstone South September 2016 Health & Beauty Recruitment

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WE URGENTLY NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS: • To staff the hospital shop which is stocked with a wide variety of sandwiches, crisps, drinks, toiletries, greetings cards, sweets, chocolate, etc. • To take trolleys (containing sweets, drinks, toiletries, etc.) round the wards. • Staff our busy tea bar • Sell books in the book room

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Maidstone South September 2016 43 On the Road

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44 Maidstone South September 2016 On the Road

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Maidstone South September 2016 45 downsmail.co.uk

to refresh the faded markings on the two condition that the render is white.

aihCouncils Parish Broomfield and Kingswood pedestrian crossings in the village centre. Ward report Maidstone Cllr Gill Fort said Litter bin The replacement concrete litter that following enquiries, it seemed that bin sited near the youth shelter on Nelestead the parish did not have enough people on Coxheath village playing field had Church Speaking as a member of the the electoral role to increase the number of already been vandalised. parochial church council, Yvonne Cronk councillors to 11. The figure was 42 short Pensions The parish council had said that St Mary’s Church would like to of the required total. For nine councillors, registered with the pensions regulator to thank the parish council for supporting the 701 to 1,350 electors are needed and allow it to operate a workplace pension Queen’s 90th birthday party at the village currently the parish has 1,309. For 11 scheme. hall. She also thanked the parish council councilors, the figure would need to be for its support on the repair of the footpath more than 1,351. Cllr Fort suggested that from the lych gate to the church, this had the parish ask parishioners to make sure made a huge difference to the footpath. they are registered on the electoral roll. Police report There were no crimes but Grass cuing Margarite and David Allen Policing Four crimes had been reported – nine calls to the police included a report of spoke about the grass cuing at the church, theft in Gravelly Bottom Road, burglary an abandoned motorbike which was stating they were not happy with the way (non-dwelling) in Peter Pease Close, and found to have been stolen. A car was it was being done. When it was strimmed, criminal damage in Lenham Road and in abandoned outside the church. the grass went over the headstones and it Cayser Drive. Cases of anti-social Highways Cllr Malcolm Ireland was to was not cut once a month as it should have behaviour involving nuisance youths had contact KCC to complain about the poor been, but only twice since September. The been reported in Charlesford Avenue and swathe cut and to report the condition of grounds maintenance contractor Copperfield Close. Morry Lane. apologised to Mr and Mrs Allen for cuing Community Right to Bid Further Play areas The picnic table anchor bolt the harebells. She also said that it had been enquiries had revealed that there was only was coming out. This has been checked cut more than twice and regarding the a CRB on an asset of community value and was not a safety concern. Cllr Tim grass left on the gravestones from the which has been in current or recent use Turnill carried out the check and reported strimming, there was not much that could for the community and that it contributes that everything was satisfactory. be done about this as it was not in the to the wellbeing of that community. As contract to sweep every grave. It was also the land in question is privately owned, it noted that the churchyard received one cannot be registered as a community Headcorn initial cut and then 11 further cuts between asset. The alternate option would be to Neighbourhood plan The plan was with April and November. The chairman added write to the landowners directly. that when contact was needed, it must go Councillors requested that the clerk write the examiner and Maidstone Borough Council had advised that the examiner through the clerk and not directly to the to the landowners of two parcels of land grounds maintenance contractor. Mr and at the end of Charlesford Avenue advising had indicated that a hearing would be called. Mrs Allen assured the council that this of their interest to purchase. would be the case in future. Sports field Signs at the field needed to Grigg Lane footpath The path had re- opened but there were complaints of its Footballs Mr and Mrs Smith from Bishops be updated to include more warnings that Close spoke about their problems with dogs are not allowed in the play area. The usability and concerns that it was to be re- closed in late August. The clerk was to footballs coming into their garden from the clerk was asked to obtain quotes for King George V Field. Quite a few panes of replacement signs. The clerk had look into the matter and advise. Kingsbridge signs A proposal for glass had been broken in their greenhouse. requested costs from Maidstone Council The Smiths asked if the parish council for emptying waste bins at the sports temporary directional signs for the new housing development on Lenham road would consider moving the goals. It was field, but they had not been received yet. noted that there was a large net at either The loaned CCTV from the crime support was received and reviewed. It was noted that the traffic would be directed down end of the goals to avoid ball going into unit had now been removed. The weekly the high street and not Oak Lane, which neighbouring gardens, but it seemed it was sports field checks would be done by Cllr was a positive factor. The proposal was a game to hit the balls higher than the nets. Clark and forwarded to the clerk for agreed. Mr and Mrs Smith offered to help move the filing. Grigg Lane development Cllr Selby had goalposts. The parish council was Mobile home A retrospective application received phone and email contact from the concerned that moving the net to a for replacement of a gypsy mobile home developer Wealden Homes about the site. different location could cause a health and at Orchard Drive, Chartway Street, Sutton They could not wait to progress the site safety risk as the balls could then hit Valence with a single-storey detached further following the delays with the legal children on the play area. Chairman David dwelling had been refused by Maidstone department at MBC and had sold the site Meredith resolved to call the meeting into Council.The applicant had lodged an to Crest Nicholson. MBC had confirmed closed session to discuss this for legal appeal with the Planning Inspectorate. that the planning permission and section reasons and all members of the public were 106 agreement transferred with the sale. excluded for this part of the meeting. The clerk was asked to contact Crest Police report PCSO Nicola Morris reported Coxheath Nicholson to ascertain what was an aempted burglary (non-dwelling), New councillor Marilyn Hansford was co- happening about the pavement and also theft from vehicle parked on a driveway, opted on to Coxheath Parish Council. Two the road build-out at Wheeler Street. and criminal damage to fencing, all three in other residents expressed an interest in Work at the boundary hedge had started Maidstone Road. There were also two joining her. and should be urgently reviewed., as incidents at Gibbs Hill – a burglary when Vegetation Following discussion with should the situation with the public right an Ipad was taken from a property and Kent Highways, vegetation and trees on of way. outbuildings on a farm broken into. the island at the junction of Amsbury Mobile home plan The council Chaerbox Cllr Jackie Benne stated that Road and Hunton Hill were to be felled to considered a plan for a mobile home and Chaerbox takes place every third Tuesday improve sight lines for motorists leaving touring caravan at Ten Acre, Love Lane, of the month at 1pm at the Hop Pole public Amsbury Road. which included hard standing and the house. Older’s Field A delegation from the erection of a stable and utility room for Village hall The quiz night would take parish council had met with one traveller family. The council wished place on September 23. representatives of the Chartway Group to to see the plan refused for reasons which Old School House The overgrown hedge discuss the community’s aspirations included a lack of evidence to support had been reported previously but would be regarding the development of the site. gypsy and traveller status for the reported again to the owner and to KCC. Parking Following complaints from occupants, and no consideration had been residents, the PCSO was to be asked to given to the disposal of sewage. undertake a campaign to discourage White Horse Inn A plan to render front Staplehurst drivers from parking on pedestrian elevations of the pub was discussed. Parish surgery Issues raised were parking footways in the village. Opinions differed and a vote resulted in outside the school, the bus service, an Pedestrian crossings The parish council six in favour and one against. The council overgrown hedge between the school field had approached Kent Highway Services wished to see the application approved on and the A229, churchyard maintenance,

46 Maidstone South September 2016 Parish Councils Crime reports 47 +VAT , the . September 2016 September Cllr Adam Staplehurst Details had been . There was a discussion ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Suon Valence Maidstone South PCSO was not at the meeting was taken without consent. had a window smashed. A member of the public asked This was almost ready for . The cost of a tree pit in the High . Watch CALL 01622 880751 ALARMS FROM £495 Staplehurst SECURE YOUR HOME SECURE YOUR In Sweetlands Lane, A vehicle parked in Pinnock Lane, A shed was broken into in Cranbrook The door fiing was damaged at an Plants were removed in Packham Drive, A Toyota RAV4 parked in Bathurst Road, Marden Hedgerows how often hedgerows were monitoredcouncillors. by Many were said toovergrowing be the pavement, with brambles and ivy growing in thenormal verges. practice It to was report thesedirect issues to Kent Highways. Crime report but provided the crime figures.been There three had crimes since thetheft last from meeting: a a dwelling, athan burglary a other dwelling and aA theft smell from of a cannabis person. waspark reported at at Napoleon the Drive. Local needs housing received from the planning inspectorate who had granted permission fordevelopment the on the land nextHouse, to Maidstone Highfield Road. Newsleer printing. The assistant clerk had contacted crossing had started. The footpathplanned was for September/October. asked that fingerpost signs andstation railway improvements be added toplan. the New play equipment forDrive Napoleon would also be addedMemorial and Hall the improvements. Ride-on mower a local company regarding costsfranking for and was asked toother look options. out for Parish council action plan regarding the purchase of ahand new ride-on or mower. second- Several quotations had been received, together withfrom an Cllr offer Childs who wasmower. selling It his was decided todecision defer until the more information was available. Tree pit Street and the planting oftree a was replacement put at £145.66.unanimously It agreed was to pay for it. number plates were stolen fromcar a parked Citroen in a driveway. Staplehurst Road, Staplehurst Forsham Lane, allotment shed in Westerhill Road, Coxheath Marden West was broken Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police was broken into was broken into. The clerk had . The installation of the The MBC report said all , a Pick Your Own Fruit , a heavy statue was Marden Langley It was agreed that the clerk The parish council decided . Park Wood Staplehurst A request had been received A leer had been received A builder had confirmed that the . . Linton Hill East Farleigh In A vehicle parked in a car park in Windows were smashed on a Citroen C1 There was an aempt to steal items from Items were taken when an outbuilding in Play equipment including a climbing A van parked in a communal car park in Thieves took a small trailer from a On Damage was caused to a vehicle in Neighbourhood Working to reduce crime. to join this organisation atyear. a cost of £50 per War memorial play area asked for a quote forThe rabbit-proof Maidstone fencing. Council report said everything was low risk andGroundsman satisfactory. pavilion was not worth refurbishingneeded and to be replaced. Theproposed commiee that it be replaced.proposed that It football was fees beenable waived the to teams to paychanging for facilities. temporary However, following investigation it was decided theprohibitive. cost Cllr was Riden would contact Hunton Parish Council to arrangetheir to new visit pavilion. In thebeen meantime confirmed it that had the floorteams was to safe change, for but itreduce was the decided rent to as showeringnot facilities available. were Harbour play area was low risk and satisfactory. Allotments from an allotment holder regardingcondition the of some of thepossible allotments ways and forward. Two allotment holders at Bowhalls had quitleers following from the clerk regardingbeing plots worked. not Proposed crossing development in South Lane included Greensand Meadow; Hopfields; Shepherds Close, Oast View and TheAssistant Cobbs. clerk should progress the procedure toan employ assistant clerk for 10the hours clerk a was week. employed If inwas September agreed it that the resultingoverspend budget be taken from theFields contingency. in Trust from the groundsman for threeat years’ a work cost of £800,work which on would both include pitches. Itas was only decided one that pitch hadthey been would maintained propose that £400 andshould an be invoice received annually. Pavilion sign was stolen from a farm. parked in a driveway in High Street, Yalding Paenden Lane, a motorcycle side pockets inSuon North Valence Street, Clapper Lane, into. frame and slide were stolen from a garden in Suon Road, Bicknor Road, and tools were stolen. commercial premises in Heath Road, Farleigh stolen from a garden. . . d. ewas . Park Wood Staplehurst . Park Woo was broken into was broken into. . . Suon Valenc East Farleigh The chairman of the Cllr Peter Spearink said Councillor Lain-Rose and Before the meeting a . Names suggested to the Cllr Riordan had been to the Headcorn Coxheath Park Wood East Farleigh Cllr Perry urged interested . Staplehurst Marden mail.co.uk Number plates were stolen from a Ford Someone broke into a shed at a house in A silver BMW X5 DN09*** and its Cash was stolen when a vehicle parked A vehicle parked in the road in Park Items were removed from a garden in Shrubs and garden equipment were A satnav was taken when thieves broke The window of a caravan parked on a A tree was damaged in a garden in A blue BMW 320 W7*** was stolen from and cash was taken. Workhouse Lane, contents, including a surf board,stolen were from a driveway inStaplehurst Greenhill, Wood Walk, MBC on the proposals forMarden the Road- A229- Headcorn Road crossroads. Jubilee Field resident voiced her concern about the Maidstone Local Plan and the Staplehurst Focus parked in the roadLane, in Stilebridge stolen from the garden ofHeath a Road, property in apples, were burned down atForge a Lane, farm in Suon Valence School governor governors at the school hadthey wrien were to looking say for aa new focus governor on with premises andCouncillors building agreed maers. to consider this. Brandy’s Bay developer for registration of the new downs ruts on Surrenden Field, weedsguers, in the the auction of propertyParade at and the the future ofClerk’s the report bank. the parish office had triedthe to land get up a for plan sale of response at as The awaited. Parade Taylor and Wimpey a had said the suggested relocation ofMarden the Road crossing to theof southern Northdown end had been rejectedso by the KCC proposed location wouldthe revert west to of the currentWimpey temporary Field site. Taylor Wimpey had cut paths and undertaken planting around the pond.and He Cllr Riordan had metGroup with and the discussed Twig the proposed clearance work as well asthe the hibernaculum;cultivation, relocation stone- of picking, gardening and seeding ofgrassed the area and installation ofMore a volunteers footpath. would be useful. Crossroads residents to send in their comments to management commiee meeting and there were concerns about funding and maintenance costs. The mower needed servicing and the pavilion lightsaention. needed New housing amount of new housing inThere the was village. a discussion about the Neighbourhood Plan. into a vehicle in Brishing Lane, in Oak Lane. TWENTY wooden bins for collection of Bell Lane, drive in South Lane, smashed. Queen Elizabeth Square, a driveway in Jeffery Close, OUR REPUTATION SPEAKS FOR ITSELF windows : doors : conservatories

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