Borough Council

downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone East Edition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper Maidstone South Edition downsmail.co.uk FREEMaidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper No. 246 October 2017 FREE News February 2020 No. 274 Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in Bearsted, stone, took to the River Medway to News has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. David has disclosed. BrockOn board The Kentishgoing, Lady were but will Stack be back? New Line success OPERATION Brock may be in the process of being dis- viable option, say transport chiefs. Op Stack has been national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy NEW Line Learning Academy is mantled but the spectre of Operation Stack now looms deployed for decades when the ports are out of action Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- MP’scelebrating Local after Planachieving bid a large. because of weather or French industrial action. fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- HELEN“good” Whately rating by asked watch- the The M20 contraflow will be taken out of commission For much of 2019, a 15-mile stretch of the motorway beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig governmentdog Ofsted. to halt the à3 untilAnderson the end (Buttons) of the year and, as the pictured, UK prepares to formally was restricted to two lanes with a 50mph speed in case borough’s housing scheme. 4 leaveStephen the EU. Richards and Adam Bor- of a no-deal Brexit. zoneBut (Uglythe system Sisters) of "stacking". HGVs on the M20 when Brock is scheduled to have been removed by Invicta bulb planting cross-ChannelThey were greetedservices byare pupils out of actionfrom is likely to be a the beginning of February. à15 STUDENTSPlans for from Dr Invicta Nigel Gram- South Borough Primary School and marTHE havewidow been of GP planting Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto bulbswill walk in Motethe Grand Park. à8 runs from December 1-31. For tick- Canyon for charity. 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. Housing crisis latest Battle to stop building JasonAS THE Maidstone Donovan housing date THEcrisis former deepens, Neighbours read our star two-page brings special on the his show to the Hazlitt willCCTV go to call Westminster in a bid Theatrepeople’s next rebellion. May. à18-1918 Mother in court A MOTHER’S life spiralled out of THE people’s fight to save Maidstone from over-development has taken control into drink and crime after a twist as councillors agreed to take the issue straight to Government. her partner cheated on to stop fly-tipping her, a court heard. à28 It is hoped pressure can be ap- Martin Cox, argued that the “call pliedCALLS on the for housing the minister installation via of CCTV cameras to preventfor sites” fly-tipping process should on be a expe- Obituaries à34 directcountry interventions road have from been local made by the local boroughdited councillor. for legal process reasons, MPs Helen Grant and Helen but without unsuitable proposals. Parishes à36 WhatelyBurberry in the Lane, new near parliament. Leeds and nearby, more than a year after it unlicensedResidents waste should carriers, be able but to be-ex- Broomfield,The charge has was been led targeted by the by was dumped and set on fire. lievespress the their cost to views small firms and of MBC dis- RESIDENTS were pleased to the leaderwaste dumpersof the Conservative for years, but oppo- in re- The church car park has also seen posingshould ofwork construction with other waste councils, at a Obituariesthe re-appearance of a burger 32 sition,cent months, Cllr John the Perry, problem who has said be- many instances of illegal dumping. transferespecially station KCC, is proving and MPs a deter- to van in a Barming layby, but thecome borough more acute. council must argue But it is a problem in many rural rentlobby that government is costing councils departments. more. Parishmembers Councils were concerned 34-35 that Construction waste, rubble, hard areas including Langley, Otham CllrThere Fort will made be an herattempt remarks to “re- as housing targets cannot be met MPs Helen Grant and Helen Whately ASHno notice dieback was has received been discovered from the in “withoutcore, windows adversely and household affecting the fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in onevise ofthe the (Government) borough’s closest standard trans- licensing officer; a number of niture is left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in Detling; residents”. yond the 17,600 already agreed in methodology” for calculating salt bins in Tovil were yet to be in the middle of the road. also been targeted recently. Hollingbourne village fete stall- Members of Lib Dem-led Maid- the 2017 Local Plan. However, bridgehousing Wells, numbers announced which, it say will the be filled; the community warden in Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month Last year, Maidstone Borough closed for 10 weeks. holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has stone Borough Council (MBC) this was shelved in favour of Cllr Tories, would “be impossible to resigned;Loose reported yellow itlines is a are busy needed time we are having toilets, sinks and Council cleared 911 cases of fly-tip- She added: “If you go along the agreed to back the Tory plan at Perry’s motion. deliver”. forfor Buffkynwelfare Way,visits; Otham a volunteer, to allow has construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 line of increasing fines, they have to full council on December 18. It was felt a suspension would Cllr Perry won consent for a busesbeen foundthrough to Imperialupdate Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. be enforced. A reduction in the MBC was due to debate a mo- halt the legal process irrevocably, cross-party letter to the secretary bishnoticeboards bins in thein sports. field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings charge or offering it free may have Tovil tion by independent councillors leaving MBC open to losing is of state regarding the size of the Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.” Janetta Sams and Eddie Powell planning control powers. housing target and lack of infras- theCrime picnic areaReports and rear exit. à38 land, to oversee the problem area.” Cllr Fort welcomed a joint initia- A three-monthly litter pick on the calling for a temporary suspen- The Conservative group, sup- tructure, such as roads. A recent event in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency mile-long stretch of road through sion of building proposals be- ported by Lib Dem leader Cllr Cllr Powell said: “This was a CrimeA SHED wasReports broken into in 35 saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Leeds village produces an average Tufton Street; alcohol and classic piece of political manoeu- VEHICLES have been driven over torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 black sacks of rubbish. money were taken in a break-in vring. We won the moral victory farmland in Lenham, causing Cllr Fort, who also serves as a at a business premises in parishas this councillor, would not says have teaching pro- damge to crops; an attempted gressed without our interven- break-inMedway was Street reported; tobacco in Detling and ; a children about social responsibility £220 were stolen from a house andtion.” the issue of litter in schools will vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted in Knightrider Street; a wheelie helpCllr take Sams the andissue fellow off the Lenham streets. Rd, Weavering; pumpkins were bin was stolen from an address Shemember, believes Cllr with Tom every Sams, household have stolen from an allotment in receivingnow withdrawn a weekly supportrefuse collection for Lib Lenhamin Melville. Road; tools were YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT stolen from Union Street. [email protected] service,Dem leader there Cllr is no Martin excuse Cox, for litterwho beingdepended thrown on fromtheir vehiclessupport orto Comment à46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumpedform his inadministration the road. last May. Comment 46-47 HomeHome Alarms Alarms supplied supplied andand fittedfitted visitvisit www.amiga.co.ukwww.amiga.co.uk oror call call 0800008000 199622199622 BI FOLD DOORS IN BLACK, GREY OR WHITE - NO PRICE UPLIFT £1099 PER LEAF CALL NOW FOR OFFER THE VERY BEST OFFERS

TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES! inc. 10 year guarantee windows : doors : conservatories

01622 686732

Composite front doors installed from £999 - CALL NOW! Just the keenest prices aroundTel: 01795 599234 Opening Times: www.southernglassMonday-Fridaymaids tone9.30-4; Saturday.co.u 10-4k

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 1pm

OUR REPUTATION SPEAKS FOR ITSELF 1a Brunswick Street East, Maidstone ME15 7UX

WE DO NOT employ pushy salesmen on commision. WE DO employ our own fitters.

WE DO insure all our guarantees for peace of mind WE DO give prices over the phone.

2 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Garden talk Phone ban and uniform GARDEN fans can get the low- down on how the Himalayan Gardens at Riverhill were created at a lecture in Maidstone. Sarah Rogers will talk about the key to New Line success restoration she and her husband have carried out as the fourth A MAIDSTONE academy has regeneration of the family. ceived a ‘good’ rating from Ofsted She will talk about the im- for the first time in 20 years. Ofsted inspectors concluded that provements made to contain the the New Line Learning Academy garden’s rare and unusual plants, had made “significant improve- some of which were brought back ments” following a two-day in- by early plant-hunters. spection in November. The talk is at the Baptist Church Headteacher Paul Murphy puts Hall in Knightrider Street, from his ban of mobile phones as one 7.30-9pm on Thursday, February reason the academy is thriving be- 6. Tea and biscuits will be served haviourally and academically. during the interval. All welcome. The report also praised staff and leaders for “expecting the very best Escape night of pupils” and the “family feeling”. Head teacher Paul Murphy with George Nokes, Laila Smith, George Hood, , FOR those looking to avoid It goes on to detail the improve- Scarlett Locke and Billie-Jo Youngs ments made in the curriculum, cupid’s arrows on Valentine’s teaching and outcomes. we are at the bottom of the list. media, all come together like a jig- Day, there is an escape. Mr Murphy said: “The standards Now, parents and students are ab- saw and the result is reflected in Maidstone Museum is inviting of this academy have improved solutely over the moon they are the report. We are more popular singles aged 18 and over to join its massively in the last two and half here. People walk in and they’re al- than ever, and it’s been a massive escape room challenge, where years. One thing the inspector said most shocked because its nothing team effort to get here. you will complete puzzles to un- was that the community need to like they expected. “It’s not like one person came in lock rooms and learn a bit of his- “catch up” with what a great learn- “All these subtle changes I and and everything changed, every sin- tory on the way. There are two ing environment this is. my staff have implemented, like gle staff member has worked tire- two tours on February 14, start- “I am aware this school has a introducing a free uniform, ban- lessly to make our academy one ing at 6.30pm and 7.30pm. reputation and for some families, ning mobile phones and social we genuinely all feel proud of.” Tickets include a drink.

YMCA MAIDSTONE COUNTY COBBLER Celebrate your birthday Shoe Repairs - Key Cutting with us Just moved? Need spare keys? We are here to help! DISCOUNTS on multiple key orders COMPETITIVELY priced

• Valentine gifts engraved by our engraving specialists - jewellery, pens & Zippo's etc. KEYS* Zippo fuel & flints available. Yale type £5 2 for £7.50 Watch repairs, batteries & straps replaced • 3 for £10!!! • We specialise in men’s Traditional Birthday Party We also cut leather soles stitched on. Mortice, Football • We can replace ZIPS on Chubb Rollerskating premises within 24 hours. Security & Also now Charlton Football, Nerf Gun most car keys NEW SPECIALISED key cutting – i.e. & Bubble Football Parties available • tubular multi-lock security *from the same key Some Packages Include • MOST car keys cut Invites, Food, Room Decoration, Unlimited Juice Drink • Engraving Service – we can also Prompt Prices start from only Maidstone YMCA, Melrose Close, Loose, supply trophies & tankards While U Wait Maidstone, Kent ME15 6BD £10.50 per head Tel: 01622 749404 • Zippo Lighters service www.maidstoneymca.org.uk • We can now copy electronic fobs available Find us on Charity Number: 1110087 www.facebook.com/Maidstoneshoerepairs YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by, and faithful to, our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive and energising communities, where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive. 370, DukesWalk, The Mall

SUPPORT & ADVICE ACCOMMODATION FAMILY WORK HEALTH & WELLBEING TRAINING & EDUCATION (Near Pizza Hut) • 01622 297600

Maidstone February 2020 3 News downsmail.co.uk Gordon gets back on his feet AS HE puts his feet up in the conservatory of his Maidstone home, borough councillor Gordon Newton muses on the kind of diet most folk would not choose after Christmas. Whilst some of us might be con- I have been trying not to get too sidering joining a slimming group involved, as it causes stress and I or spending longer in the gym, probably don't need that right his has been of the enforced vari- now.” ety caused by a triple heart by- After Downs Mail reported his pass and a bout of pneumonia. illness, the popular Independent The Independent Maidstone Maidstone councillor received 60 member, who suffered a massive cards from well-wishers, many of coronary last November, has shed whom he did not know. more than two stone as he recu- He said: “I'd like to say thank perates. you to those people who got in With typical good humour, he touch and very special thanks to jokes: “It’s a really good way to the damned good medical staff at lose weight, although I wouldn’t the Maidstone Hospital who recommend a massive heart at- looked after me. tack, triple bypass surgery and a “There were members of the bout of pneumonia as a diet! Cllr Gordon Newton is recovering at home with his dog Bonnie team from all over the world and “But I have lost well over two they simply do not get enough stone, going from more than 13st but he contracted pneumonia in gaining my strength, but it takes credit for the work they do.” to about 11st. After the surgery, I December and had to be re-ad- a little longer when you’re getting Fellow Independent Maidstone just didn’t really have an ap- mitted. However, he was released on a bit. The sternum has not yet member Eddie Powell said: “I’m petite.” in time for Christmas at home. knitted back together again after hoping that Gordon will be back After he became ill, he was The businessman, who runs the surgery. in business soon, but only if he’s transferred from Maidstone Hos- The Stone Shop, said: “I can walk “I am keeping in touch with ready to come back. His health is pital to London for heart surgery about a bit and I am slowly re- what is going on at the office, but more important.” Building land Artist’s show to help research up for auction AN ARTIST diagnosed with Parkin- 1pm. Mrs Oates said: “I had great A PLOT of land in Maidstone with son’s disease is showcasing her tal- support from all of my family last permission for 13 dwellings will go ent by putting on an exhibition in year for this exhibition. under the hammer at auction next Allington. “To help us get through the more month. Former teacher Shelagh Oates, difﬁcult times, my husband and I The site is at Launder Way, Tovil of Foxden Drive in Downswood, is still use our motto ‘adapt and over- Green, on the southern side of hosting an art display to help raise come’, and I have very supportive Maidstone covers 0.47 acres (0.19 money for research in to Parkin- friends and family who help get me hectares). There is existing permis- son’s Disease after being diag- through these times as well.” sion for 10 houses with three bed- nosed in December 2011. In addition to the exhibition, rooms and three houses with two The exhibition at Allington Li- Shelagh will be putting on zentan- bedrooms. brary will run from February 4 to gle workshops from 2.30pm to Auctioneer Kevin Gilbert said: February 28 after Shelagh raised 4pm every Wednesday. “The houses will be a mix of ter- £700 for Parkinson’s UK and Brain- Zentangle is produced with an race, semi-detached and detached help at last year’s event. and Friday. On Thursdays, it will ink pen, sketching a series of ab- and there is no affordable housing. The show will be open from 9am open from 2pm to 5pm, and on Sat- stract patterns which are then all “It is an opportunity to start to 5pm every Tuesday, Wednesday urdays it will open from 9am to put together. building in an area with a high demand for housing.” The Clive Emson auction takes place at the Detling showground on February 10. Ban for Dad who drove drugged Last year, the firm raised A JOBLESS father of eight drove that was “probably very unlikely “I don’t earn anything - I rely on £200,000 for a number of charities over the limit for drugs with a now.” my partner. The last job I had was and organisations through auc- young child in the car in Maid- Prosecuting, Kristy Harkett said: in 2017 as a plumber.” tions and events across the south. stone. “About three grams of cannabis Probation officer, Gloria Balo- Managing director James Emson Wayne Giffin, 32, tested positive was retrieved from the car. Mr Gif- gun said: “He is fully aware what said: “There is no doubt that 2019 for cannabis, despite claiming he fin tested positive with 2.5mg in he has done and says he smoked it was a challenging year for every- had not smoked since the night be- his system, the legal being 2mg. in such a way where he thought one in the industry, for a number fore. The court heard Giffin had “The defendant has quite a he’d be fine the next day. of reasons. only passed his test 11 months be- lengthy record. He has 14 convic- “He takes the kids to school “That said, we did particularly fore the offence took place in tions for 33 offences.” every morning and is essentially a well across the board and we are Melville Road on July 6. Defending himself, Giffin told stay at home dad.” delighted to be entering our fourth He told magistrates he was plan- Maidstone Magistrates Court: Giffin, of Gillingham, who ad- decade of trading in good spirits ning on applying for jobs within “The person I was 10 years ago is mitted drug driving, was banned and with great enthusiasm.” the driving industry but admitted not the person I am today. from the road for 12 months.

4 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Princess Anne opens helipad PRINCESS Anne visited Maid- stone Hospital to officially open its new helipad. The royal visit follows the recent £300,000 donation made to Maid- stone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust from the HELP Appeal. The new helipad replaces the temporary site, which was often water-logged. Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex will be the main user, but it will also be used by other emergency services as well as charities such as the Children’s Air Ambu- lance. day, seven days a week so we can Prior to unveiling a plaque to work to ensure our patients re- mark the official opening of the ceive the best possible care at the helipad, Princess Anne was intro- right time in the right place is duced to ambassadors from the priceless. HELP Appeal, the Trust’s helipad “It was also a fantastic opportu- response team as well as crew nity for the Princess Royal to meet members from Air Ambulance some of our wonderful staff and Kent Surrey Sussex. for her to hear first-hand from Shirley Hollinshead, who this those working on the frontline.” year celebrated 53 years’ continu- Robert Bertram, chief executive ous NHS service, presented of the HELP Appeal, said: “At this Buying, selling Princess Anne with a bouquet of time of the year, when there is flowers as a thank you for visiting only a limited amount of daylight, the hospital. it’s fantastic to see Maidstone Miles Scott, chief executive at Hospital having a helipad.” or both? Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells The HELP Appeal is the only NHS Trust, said: “To be able to charity in the country dedicated to offer a landing pad 24 hours a funding hospital helipads. Whitehead Monckton solicitors can help you complete all the legal steps, whether you’re buying or selling a property.

We take pride in offering a no-nonsense approach to what can sometimes be a frustrating process, helping ensure your transaction is completed as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Recognised by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Ilsa Butler, third left, and MBC street scene operations manager John Accreditation Scheme, a requirement for some Edwards with staff from One Maidstone and the council mortgage lenders to use the same solicitors. Cleaning up the town Contact us today GUM and grafﬁti are to be tackled Gabriel’s Hill and Week Street. Canterbury 01227 643250 in Maidstone town centre. BID manager Ilsa Butler says the One Maidstone, which aims to extra cleaning is hugely important Maidstone 01622 698000 restore civic pride to the county to the image of businesses in the town, has hired the council to carry county town. Tenterden 01580 765722 out an extra deep clean of King Last year, it funded two deep Street on Wednesday, January 29, clean contracts in the town – one in www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk on behalf of the town’s Business Bank Street and the other in Lower

Improvement District. (BID) High Street. Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in Tasks will include removing gum She said: “We’re starting 2020 England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne and grafﬁti, disposing of litter and with a thorough sweep of King Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by ﬂy posters, as well as power wash- Street. Other areas in the town cen- the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. ing the street and pavements from tre will be attended to in similar ex- the bus station to the junction of ercises throughout the year.” DM2019

Maidstone February 2020 5 News downsmail.co.uk Teen arrested A TEENAGER has been arrested Kent Life’s busy year after a serious crash in Maidstone. The collision happened in Northumberland Road, Shepway, at about 3.15pm on January 2. to mark 35th birthday A Kent Police spokesman said: “A woman reported injuries and KENT Life heritage farm park was tended to by the South East celebrates its 35th anniversary Coast Ambulance Service. this year with a programme of 18 “An 18-year-old local man was special events. arrested on suspicion of dangerous The working farm and visitor at- driving, driving without insur- traction at Sandling opened in 1985 ance, failing to stop when required and will mark its birthday with a by a police officer, theft, and pos- Peter Rabbit-themed party on July session of cannabis. 4 & 5. “He was later released pending Kent Life, which boasts a host of further investigation." buildings dedicated to the county’s Anyone with information or cultural history, stands in 28 acres dashcam footage should call police of farm land and orchards. on 101, quoting reference 02-0807. The site, once part of the Alling- ton Castle estate, owned by Theft charge Thomas Wyatt in the mid-16th cen- annually, dried and packed by season and prepares for the arrival tury. hand in its oast house, using only of some new-born lambs. A MAN who allegedly stole more After owner Sir Garrard Tyr- traditional techniques, at the annual l Bugs and Grubs Weekend than £500 worth of sportswear whitt-Drake died childless in 1964, Hops’ n’ Harvest Beer Festival in March 14- 15, 10am - 5pm. Get up from JD Sports in Maidstone failed his estate was bequeathed to the September. close and personal with nature to turn up at court. people of Maidstone. Events coming up include: with the Kent Life bug hunter, visit Maidstone Magistrates Court is- By 1983, a joint project between l February Fun and Frolics (Sat- critter corner or make a mini-beast sued a warrant without bail for local councils had created ‘The Mu- urday, February 15 to Sunday, house. Special guest appearances David Akinwuni (31) of London. seum of Kent Life’ which opened to February 23, 10am - 4pm) A fun- from the Gruffalo. He was due to appear at court on the public on July 6, 1985. packed week full of activities and Go to www.kentlife.org.uk or call Friday, January 4, over charges that Hops grown there are harvested trails as the farm enters lambing 01622 763936 for details. reportedly happened on Septem- ber 24, 2019. THE WALNUT TREE FREE Regular Coffee with this advertisement Your traditional, family run, local pub. Kent’s longest running comedy Eat Well… Drink Well… club Every Thursday – Come and see the future stars of comedy live! · Organic Coﬀee and a Green Tea's Homemade Toasties, Paninis and Vegetable Dumplings (MoMo’s) · Cakes and Pastries One Night · Friendly Comfortable Environment and Outside Seating with Marilyn · Selection of Summer Drinks a night of Comedy and Music · Free Wiﬁ and Loyalty Card Scheme on Saturday 15th February · Parking Available Nearby

ORGANIC COFFEE AND Live Music - every Friday SPECIALITY TEA FROM Jam Night - First Monday THE FOOTHILLS OF THE of the month (visit website HIMALAYAS. for details) COFFEES & TEA Live Band Quiz Night Third Monday of Every Month PRODUCTS TO BUY TO TAKE HOME. Dogs welcome on their leads. Lovely beer garden and car park. Varied bar menu served every day 12noon-8.30pm. 22 Union Street Come try our famous ‘Build a Burger’ meals! Maidstone Find us opposite the entrance to Oakwood Park Tonbridge Road, Maidstone ME16 8SR ME14 1ED 01622 727260 01622 600468 email : [email protected] www.himalayanleaf.co.uk web : www.thewalnuttreemaidstone.com

6 Maidstone February 2020 News downsmail.co.uk Teen arrested A TEENAGER has been arrested Kent Life’s busy year after a serious crash in Maidstone. The collision happened in Northumberland Road, Shepway, at about 3.15pm on January 2. to mark 35th birthday A Kent Police spokesman said: “A woman reported injuries and KENT Life heritage farm park was tended to by the South East celebrates its 35th anniversary Coast Ambulance Service. this year with a programme of 18 “An 18-year-old local man was special events. arrested on suspicion of dangerous The working farm and visitor at- driving, driving without insur- traction at Sandling opened in 1985 ance, failing to stop when required and will mark its birthday with a by a police officer, theft, and pos- Peter Rabbit-themed party on July session of cannabis. 4 & 5. “He was later released pending Kent Life, which boasts a host of further investigation." buildings dedicated to the county’s Anyone with information or cultural history, stands in 28 acres dashcam footage should call police of farm land and orchards. on 101, quoting reference 02-0807. The site, once part of the Alling- ton Castle estate, owned by Theft charge Thomas Wyatt in the mid-16th cen- annually, dried and packed by season and prepares for the arrival tury. hand in its oast house, using only of some new-born lambs. A MAN who allegedly stole more After owner Sir Garrard Tyr- traditional techniques, at the annual l Bugs and Grubs Weekend than £500 worth of sportswear whitt-Drake died childless in 1964, Hops’ n’ Harvest Beer Festival in March 14- 15, 10am - 5pm. Get up from JD Sports in Maidstone failed his estate was bequeathed to the September. close and personal with nature to turn up at court. people of Maidstone. Events coming up include: with the Kent Life bug hunter, visit Maidstone Magistrates Court is- By 1983, a joint project between l February Fun and Frolics (Sat- critter corner or make a mini-beast sued a warrant without bail for local councils had created ‘The Mu- urday, February 15 to Sunday, house. Special guest appearances David Akinwuni (31) of London. seum of Kent Life’ which opened to February 23, 10am - 4pm) A fun- from the Gruffalo. He was due to appear at court on the public on July 6, 1985. packed week full of activities and Go to www.kentlife.org.uk or call Friday, January 4, over charges that Hops grown there are harvested trails as the farm enters lambing 01622 763936 for details. reportedly happened on Septem- ber 24, 2019.

IndependentIndependent Financial Financial Advice Advice RetirementRetirement SpecialistsSpecialists Providing advice on Company Pensions and ProvidingPersonal Pe ansidviocens on. Company Pensions (including Final Salary Schemes) and Personal Pensions. Also providing advice on Investments, Personal AlsProteo prctionovid (inglife cadovevicr e tcon.) , InEstatvestme / eInhnts,eritan Persocen Taaxl ProtPlanning,ection Wills, (life cPovewerrs e tofc.) Attorne, Estatey /a nInhd Territusatsn.ce Tax Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. We offer advice across a wide range of services 01622 391 444 including investments, savings, mortgages [email protected] W(inclue offdering adv Eqiuceit ya crossReleas ae )w andide protrangece tiofo ns.e Wrvei cesare 01622 391 444 inclcommittudinged inv to eputtingstments, clients savings, at th me ohrtgearta gofes and [email protected] proteverythingection. wWee d aro ean committedd to developing to pu ttinglong-term clients aret lationshipsthe heart o withf eve rythingour clients we. dThio ans isd achito eved by www.handffinH&F Financiala Limnciaitel.cdo.uk denevselopinguring that lo ng-termwe underst relationshipand the individus withal onuered s Granville House cofli eantchs. cliThient,s i sa ndac hievto impled ebmy eenntingsuring tailor thated we H&F Financial Limited ufinannderstandcial plans the to individ addressual tho neeseds needs. of each client, Granville Road and to implementing tailored financial plans to SuMaiitedston 1B e Mortgage or Equity Released from your home will be Frederick House asddrecureessd againthoses net iteds. Kent BrMEewer14 2B StreJ et Contact us for a free consultation M aidstone Ctoo ntalookc ta tu yso forur optiona free sco. nsultation to look at your options. Kent, ME14 1RY Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - No 778297 A company registered in England & Wales. Registered Company - No 10057458 Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - No 778297 A company registered in England & Wales. Registered Company - No 10057458 Maidstone February 2020 7 News downsmail.co.uk BBC sparks Cygnet inquiry THE leadership of a chain of private mental hospitals – including a facility in Maidstone – has been called into question following a documentary aired by the BBC. A Panorama expose broadcast al- Data obtained through a Free- legations of abuse based on an un- dom of Information request shows dercover reporter’s filming at a unit a worrying level of violence inside in Co Durham. the Cygnet Hospital Maidstone in The Care Quality Commission the month of April, 2019. (CQC) followed this up with a Some 30 incidents were investi- probe into the management of gated by police, mostly alleged as- Cygnet Health Care. saults. The firm said it was addressing Our revelations came as a Care concerns that had been raised, ac- Quality Commission inspection cording to the BBC. graded the hospital’s safety record Cygnet runs dozens of facilities as requiring improvement. for vulnerable adults and children, It reported evidence of five “seri- caring for people with mental ous incidents” and an escape since health problems, learning disabilities and eating disorders. Cygnet in it opened in October 2018. There was an incident involving a Maidstone also treats mentally ill other providers may not be able or how a seriously mentally ill man weapon. criminals referred by the courts. willing to support. We always aim treated in Maidstone was assessed The CQC reported a lack of clear to de-escalate and advocate least re- as low risk and allegedly mistak- The inspection was carried out in lines of accountability between the strictive practices in line with cur- enly released by Cygnet a month March, before the marked escala- executive team and its services. In- rent good practice guidelines. early and went on to kill his father tion in violence in April. sufficient checks had been carried “The report recognises it does not four days later. Cygnet was given a “good” CQC out on top executives to assess suit- take into account the level of need Last year, we revealed how po- rating overall and claimed “imme- ability, said the CQC. or acuity of individual patients ad- lice investigated dozens of assaults diate action” was taken to deal with Cygnet said: “At Cygnet, we treat mitted to these wards.” at the Maidstone private hospital safety concerns. some of the most acute patients that An inquiry has been ordered into which treats mentally-ill criminals. l Countdown to a killing, page 22 Pupils plant Arrest warrant Marjorie back on feet A WARRANT has been issued for bulbs in park THE country’s oldest cleaning the arrest of a man who was al- SIXTH form students have planted lady, Maidstone’s Majorie legedly in possession of five bags more than 11,000 bulbs in Mote Rose, is taking time off from of cocaine in Maidstone. Park. her job at The Mall after injur- Michael Pannett (32), from Sur- The Invicta Grammar School ing herself in a fall. rey, was charged with the posses- pupils arrived at the green on De- Marjorie (96) is a familiar sion of a controlled drug on March cember 6 to plant daffodils, blue face around the shopping cen- 24, 2019. bells and wood anemone as part of tre and fell on her way to work Mr Pannett failed to show up to a volunteering day. before Christmas, reportedly Maidstone Magistrates Court on Emma Harrington, deputy head breaking her hip. Friday, January 3, and a warrant of Upper School at Invicta Gram- Although she was ordered was issued without bail. mar School said: “Last year, 10 stu- to stay at home to recover, dents built bug hotels in the park family members say she is as Charity dance and said it was a rewarding experi- keen as ever to get back to the job she has loved for three ENJOY a barn dance in Maidstone ence to be able to contribute to the and raise money for the work of community we live in. We were re- decades. A Downs Mail reader re- lifeboat teams. ally looking forward to coming Maidstone branch of the RBLI is along to Mote Park again.” ported seeing Marjorie walking through The Mall with a holding the dance at Fant Commu- This year, more than 70 students nity Hall, Barming, from 7.30pm on took part in the community focused female companion on Jan- uary 11. Saturday, March 7. day, which is dedicated to giving Tickets are £10, which includes a back and donating time to the local ploughman’s supper. Guests can area. bring their own drinks and nibbles. Mote Park officer Alan Frith said: Call for arson witnesses Call John Ashbolt on 01622 725435 “It was a real pleasure to have stu- AN appeal for information has been issued by officers investigat- or Alan Cocks on 01622 761004. dents from Invicta Grammar School ing a suspected arson in Maidstone. back again. The students who at- Officers were called at just after midnight to a car on fire on a tended last year worked hard and drive in Glebe Lane, Barming, on Monday, January 13. The fire Jo Brand date showed a real interest in the work had spread to a nearby house, which was damaged. COMEDIAN Jo Brand will stop off we are doing at Mote Park. It was Firemen, who also attended, put out the fire. in Maidstone when she takes to the one of the wettest days of the year Anyone who was in the area at the time and saw anything sus- road trying out new material with and they all just worked through picious or unusual is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604 100, guest Andy Robinson. the rain.” quoting crime reference 46/7275/20, or Kent Crimestoppers, The TV favourite will be at the The bulbs will flower March to anonymously, on 0800 555111. Hazlitt from 8pm on Thursday, April time. February 6. Tickets start at £20.

8 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk Business Focus

Maidstone February 2020 9 News downsmail.co.uk Lace up your Hazlitt celebrates best walking boots A WALKING Festival is set to at- tract hundreds of visitors to Maidst one this spring.. pantomime run ever The town’s first walking attrac- THE Hazlitt Theatre has enjoyed tion will provide free, guided tours one of its most successful panto along some of the area’s most stun- seasons ever, its management has ning footpaths. revealed. Visit Maidstone is one of the The 350-seat venue in the heart partners behind the initiative and of Maidstone sold out most of its believes The Heart of Kent Walk- shows and achieved a 91% capac- ing Festival - from Saturday, April ity for the entire run. 25-26 - will provide visitors with a The big attraction this year was good reason to stay the weekend, X Factor star, Jake Quickenden, enjoy the area’s hospitality and its who joined the cast of Beauty and stunning scenery. the Beast as Danon. Peter Morris, North Downs Way The singer was crowned the received this year.” The show will run from Satur- national trail manager, says the winner of the 2018 series of Danc- Beauty and The Beast also day, November 28 to Wednesday, timing of the event will provide the ing on Ice and was also runner-up starred Martha-Frances Henry as December 31, 2020. perfect showcase for the county in I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Beauty, Will Elliott as the Beast, Hazlitt spokesman Michelle town. He said: “Scheduling in Here in 2014. David Zachary as D'Jon, William Woodland said: “For our 2020 pan- spring gives the area a distinct offer Hazlitt general manager Martin Hodges as DC, John Conway as tomime, we are welcoming audi- outside the already traditional Cleverley said: “I am delighted Doc, Sarah Hooper as the En- ences into the world of fairy tales. summer walking season. Beauty and The Beast proved to be chantress and Ian Good as Made- “Audiences can laugh at silly “We hope to make this a regular a huge success for the Hazlitt in moiselle Marmalade. Simple Simon, boo and hiss the event.” 2019. The Hazlitt will be staging Jack wicked Fleshcreep and cheer on The festival will include urban “I can confirm sales were up on and The Beanstalk as its Christmas our hero Jack as he tries to rescue and rural walks ranging from an last year, with sold-out shows for show in 2020, but the big name will his sweetheart Jill from the nasty easy stroll through to the more most of the run and we achieved not be known for some months yet. giant’s castle in the clouds.” challenging. Go to 91% capacity for the run. We’re de- An early bird offer of £2 off tickets Book at www.parkwoodthe- www.heartofkentwalkingfesti- lighted with the support we have ends on January 31, 2020. atres.co.uk/Hazlitt-Theatre. val.org website. A personal service at a time of loss Michael Lawrence, difficult decisions about how best to remember celebrates life. and his son Robert a loved one and to meet their personal wishes. "Our approach is simple. We sit with you in our along with Kim and With so many years’ experience, Family office or your home, taking you slowly and Angela, are the Funeral Service has learned how to respond to methodically through the various decisions that team behind a the specific and different needs of every you will face and the options available to you. family-owned individual facing one of the toughest times in Sometimes, it’s just good to sit funeral service that their life. This personalised approach includes and talk, and to learn about has been helping the option of home visits and access to a the services and venues families across the friendly voice at the end of the phone around available from someone with Maidstone area for the clock, as well as personal support to clients experience and compassion 40 years. through the bereavement process. before making a decision.” With offices in Bearsted and Barming, Family Michael Lawrence said: "The loss of a loved Funeral Service is a third generation business, one is never easy to cope with, and the added experienced in caring for your needs with stress of making arrangements for the service commitment and understanding. can often bring further emotional upset. With At such a stressful time, they know it’s our experience of making funeral arrangements important to sit and talk to you about every we have learned how to help families have and detail and to assist you in making the often be part of a unique and meaningful service that

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

10 Maidstone January 2020 Over 55? Release tax free cash to help fund retirement THEN YOU COULD CONSIDER A RETIREMENT MORTGAGE OR EQUITY RELEASE RETIREMENT LENDING AND EQUITY THE ADVISER – Raise money for; RELEASE CAN BE IN SEVERAL FORMS, Andrew has a wealth • Home improvements TYPICALLY FROM 55 YEARS OF AGE of experience as an • Holiday of a lifetime • Retirement mortgage - Similar to a independent mortgage • Gifting family members a traditional mortgage where you repay the adviser, he is friendly, deposit towards a home purchase capital and interest or solely the interest professional and cares or funding school fees keeping monthly payments low, main about his clients. • Repay an existing mortgage difference is there is typically no end date Over 90% of Andrew’s Andrew McCrossan • Repay unsecured debt with the interest only option. clients are returning • Money for everyday living • Lifetime mortgage - This is the most customers or referrals, highlighting his attitude Other reasons can include to common type of equity release, where you and long term relationships with clients. purchase a holiday home, estate have the option to repay the interest, make Andrew has been established since 2003 planning, to fund long term care or overpayments or let the interest roll up and is one of the few mortgage advisers to to pay for private medical costs. without making any payment. With many have the prestigious high level DipMAP flexible products you can initially take enough mortgage qualification. HOW DO WE DISCUSS THIS? – money for your immediate needs with a Andrew is happy to carry out drawdown facility for future use or to provide Andrew is a member of the meetings at the Maidstone office, a regular income. Equity Release Council, in the comfort of your own home, committed to the highest • Home reversion 65+ - You raise money by phone or video call. To start standards of advice and by selling all or part of your home while with please call to see if it is worth safeguarding. continuing to live in it, this is the least while arranging a meeting. common and rarely features in current equity release. T: 01622 826150 Borrowing is typically repaid from the sale of [email protected] your home when you die or move permanently www.equitylifeuk.com into residential care. The Old Library, St Faiths Street, Maidstone ME14 1LH

Equity Life UK is Appointed Representative of New Leaf Distribution Ltd. New Leaf Distribution Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Number 460421 For retirement mortgages your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

MORTGAGE - EQUITY RELEASE – WILLS - ESTATE PLANNING - LIFE ASSURANCE - CRITICAL ILLNESS - INCOME PROTECTION Denture care to make you smile SB Denture Design Ltd (formerly known as SB repairs and adjustments through to new sets we Dental Laboratory) are now pleased to offer our can offer a complete denture care service. SB Denture Design Ltd offer services directly to the public. SB was founded in Although the work is done ‘in house’ with 1989, producing quality denture work for dentists partial dentures and other more complex cases FREE consultations and can in Maidstone and the surrounding areas. we work closely with the dentist. It is essential advise you on the best Since then Steve, the founder of SB Denture that the health of any remaining teeth are denture options available. Design has been clinically trained so we are able checked out before denture construction. This is to provide our services directly to you. He gained necessary to ensure the prosthesis is a long term further clinical qualifications at the University of solution. We can accept referrals from you own Central Lancashire (with merit) and this enables dentist or we can arrange an appointment with him to treat patients directly thus alleviating the one of our dental colleagues at your first need to visit the dentist for the impressions, appointment. denture try in and the fitting of the dentures. Any Having the laboratory on the premises reduces necessary after care would be provided by us as the waiting time for some services, some services well. With over 25 years of experience in like repairs can even be done while you wait. It is manufacturing all styles of dental appliances, we also an advantage as some larger adjustments can now hand craft your dentures for you from can be done in house start to finish. By dealing directly with the We pride ourselves in making sure everyone we technician who will make your dentures we can treat is happy with the product we produce and tailor your prosthesis to your own personal want our patients to have the confidence that individual requirements. their denture has been constructed with the Using only the highest quality materials and all utmost care and using only quality materials. Our the latest technologies you are guaranteed a aim is to make people comfortable with our product of the very highest standard. From treatment and confident with our product.

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

Maidstone January 2020 11 Help is at hand

The Poplars Care Centre makes a vital contribution to the Maidstone community, being registered to care for up to seventy-one people and able to cope with many specialist needs.

The service respects the privacy and dignity of each individual while providing them with access to skilled carers 24/7, as well as a versatile activities programme established to support long-term physical and mental well-being.

158 Tonbridge Road, Maidstone ME16 8SU 01622 752872 www.carehome.co.uk

Brand New Straight Stairlifts Next day Reconditioned installation Stairlifts

Tel No: 01622 756128 Call us today to Mobile: 07905 182363 request your FREE, www.stairliftstoday.co.uk no obligation, [email protected] home survey.

49 West Park Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7AF

12 Maidstone February 2020 Help is at hand

FREE QUOTES

FREE* Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Bathing a problem? – we can help

• Wet rooms • Z ero VAT on disabled • Walk in showers and baths bathrooms • Waterproof wall panelling • D iscounts for over 60s and • Slip resistant safety ﬂ ooring EX Service personnel • G rab rails, shower seats • D isabled Facilities Grants

Showroom open 7 Call for friendly advice and free survey days. Unit 11, Newnham and quote Court Shopping Village, Bearsted ME14 5LH 01622 738204 01622 738204 [email protected] www.ahminstallations.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply, visit our website for more details.

Maidstone February 2020 13 News downsmail.co.uk Inmate injured Four jailed for killing prison oﬃcers A MAIDSTONE prison inmate who injured three prison officers has been given a further jail term. after a nine-week trial Diqueon Blackwood (25) received a supervised visit while FOUR men involved in the drug- An investigation was launched serving a prison sentence in Jan- related killing of Maidstone man by the Kent and Essex Serious uary 2018. Wesley Adyinka have been jailed Crime Directorate and enquiries, in- Prison officers noticed Black- for a total of nearly 80 years. cluding the examination of CCTV, wood had moved his chair and A jury heard how Mr Adyinka identified that the four arrested men table, and had moved closer to his died during turf wars over who had visited the area searching for visitor, touching their hand. controlled the supply of drugs in the victims an hour before the mur- When they aproached him, Maidstone. der. Blackwood stood up and repeat- A woman was also seriously in- At an identification procedure edly punched one of them. jured in the attack and taken to hos- Roach, of South Norwood, London, He then assaulted two further of- pital while the victim lay dying at was identified as the man who had ficers who came to help their col- the scene in Knighrider Street. stabbed the two victimsand was league, and continued to be Following a trial at Maidstone charged with murder and grievous aggressive until he was restrained. Crown Court, Kevin Roach was bodily harm. One of the victims received a se- jailed for 27 years, Julian Grant for ment, Roach threatened Adyinka Harris, of Croydon; Caparn of rious wound to his face and a sec- 20 years, Rodney Harris for 18 before stabbing him in the chest. Streatham and Grant of Mitcham, ond officer suffered a cut head. years, and Alfie Caparn was sen- The woman was stabbed in the were later charged. Blackwood, of no fixed address, tenced to 18 years. thigh when she tried to intervene. On January 14, after a nine-week was arrested and later pleaded At about 12.30am on February 10, The two men escaped and ran to trial at Maidstone Crown Court, guilty to charges of wounding with 2019, 38-year-old Wesley Adyinka a BMW with Rodney Harris and Ju- Roach (40) was convicted of mur- intent, actual bodily harm and as- and Amanda Francis (pictured) in lian Grant. Mr Adyinka was later der, unlawful wounding and pos- saulting an emergency worker. her 30s were outside a block of flats pronounced dead at the scene and session of a knife. Grant (28) and Blackwood pleaded guilty at in Knightrider Street when they the woman was taken to hospital. Harris (38) were both convicted of Maidstone Crown Court and, on were approached by Caparn, who The BMW was later stopped in manslaughter and unlawful Friday, December 20 at the same they had met previously, and Bromley, where Roach, Caparn, wounding. Caparn (18) was con- court, was sentenced to three years Roach. According to a police state- Grant and Harris were arrested." victed of manslaughter. in prison. THE FIREPLACE A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS • Wood and Multi Fuel Stoves • Stove Package Deals • Marble, Wood and Stone Fire Surrounds • Bespoke Service Available • Gas and Electric Fires • Chimney Lining • Full Installation Service

10% Discount for installs Ts & Cs apply

Gas Safe and HETAS registered engineers. Visit Our Showroom 2 Castle Court, Castle Road, Tel: 01795 599234 Eurolink Industrial Estate, Opening Times: Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3TD Monday-Friday 9.30-4; Saturday 10-4

14 Maidstone February 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Inmate injured Ramblin Man Four jailed for killing prison officers Operation Brock is to acts lined up A MAIDSTONE prison inmate ROCK legends Lynrd Skynyrd will who injured three prison officers grace this year’s Ramblin Man fes- has been given a further jail term. tival in Maidstone. after a nine-week trial Diqueon Blackwood (25) re- be removed until 2021 Now in its sixth successive year, ceived a supervised visit while THE process to remove the con- cross-Channel weather with the im- the event at Mote Park last year at- FOUR men involved in the drug- An investigation was launched serving a prison sentence in Jan- troversial contraflow system on the plementation of Operation Stack. tracted more than 20,000 rock fans related killing of Maidstone man by the Kent and Essex Serious uary 2018. M20 known as Operation Brock Operation Brock was meant to for the three-day affair, which has Wesley Adyinka have been jailed Crime Directorate and enquiries, in- Prison officers noticed Black- has almost been completed. keep traffic moving, but its narrow featured acts such as The Dark- for a total of nearly 80 years. cluding the examination of CCTV, wood had moved his chair and With the departure of the UK from lanes and low resilience meant that ness, Black Stone Cherry, Beth A jury heard how Mr Adyinka identified that the four arrested men table, and had moved closer to his the EU on January 31 it is felt that it frequent crashes caused massive Hart, Foreigner, and Robert Jon died during turf wars over who had visited the area searching for visitor, touching their hand. will no longer be needed during the problems for the M20 and sur- and The Wreck, from California. controlled the supply of drugs in the victims an hour before the mur- When they aproached him, transition period, which lasts until rounding roads. Maidstone band Collateral made Maidstone. der. Blackwood stood up and repeat- the end of 2020. The issue of lorry parks in Kent its debut. A woman was also seriously in- At an identification procedure edly punched one of them. The work to remove the Brock will also re-emerge, with Highways Lynrd Skynyrd, the band behind jured in the attack and taken to hos- Roach, of South Norwood, London, He then assaulted two further of- barriers will take until the beginning England seeking plots for the pur- the classic hit Sweet Home Al- pital while the victim lay dying at was identified as the man who had ficers who came to help their col- on February, with diversions in pose, such as the one between Sand- abama, are on the Main Stage on the scene in Knighrider Street. stabbed the two victimsand was league, and continued to be place between J9 and J8. way and Boughton Malherbe. Saturday, July 18. Following a trial at Maidstone charged with murder and grievous aggressive until he was restrained. Liberal Democrat transport The purpose of a lorry park is Other acts lined up include Crown Court, Kevin Roach was bodily harm. One of the victims received a se- spokesman Rob Bird, pictured, a three-fold: to discourage illegal park- Hawkwind, Billy Bob Thornton jailed for 27 years, Julian Grant for ment, Roach threatened Adyinka Harris, of Croydon; Caparn of rious wound to his face and a sec- Kent county councillor, questioned ing of lorries on Kent’s roads; to cre- and the Boxmasters, Clutch and 20 years, Rodney Harris for 18 before stabbing him in the chest. Streatham and Grant of Mitcham, ond officer suffered a cut head. how much the taxpayer had had to ate a space for thousands of trucks in Vintage Caravan. years, and Alfie Caparn was sen- The woman was stabbed in the were later charged. Blackwood, of no fixed address, pay for the “misery” it has caused. users in Kent”. the event of Operation Stack and a tenced to 18 years. thigh when she tried to intervene. On January 14, after a nine-week was arrested and later pleaded The London-bound side will be Cllr Bird said: “What we need to 24-hour customs clearance house. At about 12.30am on February 10, The two men escaped and ran to trial at Maidstone Crown Court, guilty to charges of wounding with restored to its normal three lanes. know is how much this little lot has Cllr Bird said the real problems Museum tour 2019, 38-year-old Wesley Adyinka a BMW with Rodney Harris and Ju- Roach (40) was convicted of mur- intent, actual bodily harm and as- The announcement from the cost the taxpayer and what it has will emerge at the end of the year TAKE a look behind the scenes at and Amanda Francis (pictured) in lian Grant. Mr Adyinka was later der, unlawful wounding and pos- saulting an emergency worker. transport minister comes after a achieved apart from causing misery when customs checks begin. Maidstone Museum and its hidden her 30s were outside a block of flats pronounced dead at the scene and session of a knife. Grant (28) and Blackwood pleaded guilty at delegation of MPs, including and disruption to the daily lives of He said: “There’s a fair chance the collection of over 600,000 artefacts. in Knightrider Street when they the woman was taken to hospital. Harris (38) were both convicted of Maidstone Crown Court and, on Tracey Crouch, met with transport tens of thousands of people.” barriers will be back up by next De- This monthly event next takes were approached by Caparn, who The BMW was later stopped in manslaughter and unlawful Friday, December 20 at the same minister Chris Heaton-Harris, who Brock reportedly cost £30m of cember. If negotiations go foul be- place on Tuesday, February 11, they had met previously, and Bromley, where Roach, Caparn, wounding. Caparn (18) was con- court, was sentenced to three years said that he appreciated the barrier public money. The M20 bears the tween now and then, perhaps it from 10.30am to 11.20am. Tickets Roach. According to a police state- Grant and Harris were arrested." victed of manslaughter. in prison. has caused “disruption to road brunt of French strikes and adverse might be up even sooner.” are £5 and £4 for museum mem- Over 55? Release tax free cash to help fund retirement THEN YOU COULD CONSIDER A RETIREMENT MORTGAGE OR EQUITY RELEASE RETIREMENT LENDING AND EQUITY THE ADVISER – Raise money for; RELEASE CAN BE IN SEVERAL FORMS, Andrew has a wealth • Home improvements TYPICALLY FROM 55 YEARS OF AGE of experience as an • Holiday of a lifetime • Retirement mortgage - Similar to a independent mortgage • Gifting family members a traditional mortgage where you repay the adviser, he is friendly, deposit towards a home purchase capital and interest or solely the interest professional and cares or funding school fees keeping monthly payments low, main about his clients. • Repay an existing mortgage difference is there is typically no end date Over 90% of Andrew’s Andrew McCrossan • Repay unsecured debt with the interest only option. clients are returning • Money for everyday living • Lifetime mortgage - This is the most customers or referrals, highlighting his attitude Other reasons can include to common type of equity release, where you and long term relationships with clients. purchase a holiday home, estate have the option to repay the interest, make Andrew has been established since 2003 planning, to fund long term care or overpayments or let the interest roll up and is one of the few mortgage advisers to to pay for private medical costs. without making any payment. With many have the prestigious high level DipMAP flexible products you can initially take enough mortgage qualification. HOW DO WE DISCUSS THIS? – money for your immediate needs with a Andrew is happy to carry out drawdown facility for future use or to provide Andrew is a member of the meetings at the Maidstone office, a regular income. Equity Release Council, in the comfort of your own home, committed to the highest • Home reversion 65+ - You raise money by phone or video call. To start standards of advice and by selling all or part of your home while with please call to see if it is worth safeguarding. continuing to live in it, this is the least while arranging a meeting. common and rarely features in current equity release. T: 01622 826150 Borrowing is typically repaid from the sale of [email protected] your home when you die or move permanently www.equitylifeuk.com into residential care. The Old Library, St Faiths Street, Maidstone ME14 1LH

MORTGAGE - EQUITY RELEASE – WILLS - ESTATE PLANNING - LIFE ASSURANCE - CRITICAL ILLNESS - INCOME PROTECTION

Maidstone February 2020 15 News downsmail.co.uk Wanted man Coat thief says arrest POLICE are searching for a man in connection with a burglary in Maidstone. Anybody who knows the where- abouts of Klodjan Doci (24) is was ‘a turning point’ asked to call 101 quoting reference 46/228045/19. AN ALCOHOLIC told a court her pression, anxiety, high blood pres- Alternatively call Crimestoppers three-month shoplifting spree was sure, high cholesterol and asthma. anonymously on 0800 555 111 or “a cry for help”. She is taking medication for her complete the online form at Janet Dunn (54), of Edmett Way, mental health. www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Maidstone, put her parent’s death Probation officer, Lauren Pack- in 2013 as the prime reason she ham said: “Being arrested was a re- turned to alcohol and cocaine. lief for her. She has been addicted Museum date One magistrate stressed to the to alcohol since 2012 as she was a TAKE a look behind the scenes at mother of two that committing carer for her mum who had de- Maidstone Museum and its hidden criminal offences was not the mentia. In the last six weeks she collection of more than 600,000 “purest” way to seek help. has tried to wean herself off. artefacts and specimens. Maidstone Magistrates “She has suffered from severe This monthly event next hap- Courteard Dunn stole four coats in depression and anxiety since she pens on Tuesday, February 11, 12 weeks, each worth nearly £200. was 14. She had a breakdown in from 10.30am to 11.20am. Prosecuting, Debbie Jones said: 2015 and had to leave work.” Tickets are £5 and £4 for mem- “On four separate occasions, from coats over her arm and leaving. Chairman of the bench, Ian bers. October to December, the defen- She admits the first coat she stole; Daniel said: “I understand these dant left Marks and Spencer’s in she gave away. things can cause you to act in ways Week Street without paying. Dur- “The second and third coats you didn’t think you would. But Sounds of 70s ing the last offence, she was de- were left in a friend’s car and the theft is not the way to the help you GO back to the ‘70s at the Hazlitt tained, and the coat recovered.” last coat was recovered. She is re- need.” Theatre in Maidstone with a trib- Defending, Michelle Pibworth morseful and was not stealing for Dunn admitted four counts of ute to the sounds of the time on said: “One thing I would like to drugs. She wanted to be caught.” theft and was given a 12-month January 31. The Supersonics 70s stress is that these thefts were very The court heard Dunn lived community order, 20 rehabilitation Show is led by Janey Bombshell, unsophisticated. Her method of alone and saw her arrest as a “turn- days, a two-month curfew from with hits from top bands such as theft was literally just draping the ing point”. She suffers from de- 7pm to 7am and a £597 fine. Queen, Fleetwood Mac and T Rex.

Visit our FOOTSTEPS Showroom or call FLOO R I N G to arrange a home visit

OFF

£ORDERS2 5* OVER £250

CARPET, VINYL, WOOD, NATURAL & DESIGNER FLOORING 196 Loose Road, Maidstone, Kent ME15 7UF Tel/Fax: 01622 757411 |

16 Maidstone February 2020 News downsmail.co.uk RENOVATE OR SIMPLY UPDATE Wanted man RENOVATE OR SIMPLY UPDATE Coat thief says arrest POLICE are searching for a man in connection with a burglary in Maidstone. IN AS LITTLE AS A DAY Anybody who knows the where- IN AS LITTLE AS A DAY abouts of Klodjan Doci (24) is RENOVATE OR SIMPLY UPDATE was ‘a turning point’ asked to call 101 quoting reference GiveGive your your kitchen kitchen a stylisha stylish new new look look without without going going throughthrough all the disruptiondisruption of of ripping ripping out out your your old old one. one. Our Our be -be- 46/228045/19. spoke worktops and replacement doors are made to cover existing surfaces precisely, leaving a hardwearing and AN ALCOHOLIC told a court her pression, anxiety, high blood pres- Alternatively call Crimestoppers spoke worktops and replacement doors are made to cover existing surfaces precisely, leaving a hardwearing and three-month shoplifting spree was sure, high cholesterol and asthma. anonymously on 0800 555 111 or luxurious nish. KnownIN as ‘The AS Top That LITTLE Fits On Top’, it’s a winning AS combination A DAY of strength and slimline dimensions “a cry for help”. She is taking medication for her luxurious nish. Known as ‘The Top That Fits On Top’, it’s a winning combination of strength and slimline dimensions complete the online form at that has made us a household success around the world. Janet Dunn (54), of Edmett Way, mental health. www.crimestoppers-uk.org. that has made us a household success around the world. Maidstone, put her parent’s death Probation officer, Lauren Pack- Give your kitchen a stylish new look without going through all the disruption of ripping out your old one. Our be- in 2013 as the prime reason she ham said: “Being arrested was a re- spoke worktops and replacement doors are made to cover existing surfaces precisely, leaving a hardwearing and turned to alcohol and cocaine. lief for her. She has been addicted Museum date luxurious nish. Known as ‘The Top That Fits On Top’, it’s a winning combination of strength and slimline dimensions One magistrate stressed to the to alcohol since 2012 as she was a TAKE a look behind the scenes at that has made us a household success around the world. mother of two that committing carer for her mum who had de- Maidstone Museum and its hidden criminal offences was not the mentia. In the last six weeks she collection of more than 600,000 “purest” way to seek help. has tried to wean herself off. artefacts and specimens. Maidstone Magistrates “She has suffered from severe This monthly event next hap- Courteard Dunn stole four coats in depression and anxiety since she pens on Tuesday, February 11,

12 weeks, each worth nearly £200. was 14. She had a breakdown in from 10.30am to 11.20am. apply and Conditions *Terms *Terms and Conditions apply and Conditions *Terms Prosecuting, Debbie Jones said: 2015 and had to leave work.” Tickets are £5 and £4 for mem- “On four separate occasions, from coats over her arm and leaving. Chairman of the bench, Ian bers. October to December, the defen- She admits the first coat she stole; Daniel said: “I understand these dant left Marks and Spencer’s in she gave away. things can cause you to act in ways apply and Conditions *Terms Week Street without paying. Dur- “The second and third coats you didn’t think you would. But Sounds of 70s ing the last offence, she was de- were left in a friend’s car and the theft is not the way to the help you GO back to the ‘70s at the Hazlitt tained, and the coat recovered.” last coat was recovered. She is re- need.” Theatre in Maidstone with a trib- Defending, Michelle Pibworth morseful and was not stealing for Dunn admitted four counts of ute to the sounds of the time on said: “One thing I would like to drugs. She wanted to be caught.” theft and was given a 12-month January 31. The Supersonics 70s stress is that these thefts were very The court heard Dunn lived community order, 20 rehabilitation Show is led by Janey Bombshell, unsophisticated. Her method of alone and saw her arrest as a “turn- days, a two-month curfew from with hits from top bands such as theft was literally just draping the ing point”. She suffers from de- 7pm to 7am and a £597 fine. Queen, Fleetwood Mac and T Rex.

The top that ts on top Worktops Doors ProfessionallyThe top ttedthat in ts one on day, top Granite,Worktops quartz, recycled Over Doors100 combinations of The topnoProfessionally debris, that no ts disruption tted on in top one day, glassGranite, &Worktops porcelain quartz, recycled worktops OverMade-to-Measure 100 combinationsDoors of doors no debris, no disruption glass & porcelain worktops Made-to-Measure doors Professionally tted in one day, Granite, quartz, recycled Over 100 combinations of no debris, no disruption glass & porcelain worktops Made-to-Measure doors For Fora free a free consultation consultation please please call call or or visit visit trend-transformations.co.uk/maidstone For a free consultation pleaseNewnhamNewnham call or Court Courtvisit Shopping trend-transformations.co.uk/maidstone Village, Village, BearstedNewnhamBearsted Road, Road, Court MaidstoneMaidstone Shopping ME14 ME14 Village, 5LH 5LH FREEFREE 0162201622 469 541541 SinkSink & Tap& Tap Bearsted Road, Maidstone ME14 5LH worth up to FREEworth up to * 01622 469 541 Sink &£250 Tap* £250*Terms & conditions apply worth*Terms & conditions up to apply £250* *Terms & conditions apply

Maidstone February 2020 17 News | Housing downsmail.co.uk A249 scheme moves ahead Village backs council AN ambitious multi-million pound scheme to ease congestion on the often gridlocked A249 has progressed, after Kent County in call for sites battle Council applied for permission to extend it further. The £11m A249 Bearsted Road EAST Farleigh residents packed the school hall and supported their Improvement Scheme was given parish council in a fight against 16 land offers for residential development. the go-ahead two years ago to en- large the roundabaouts near J7 of If permitted by Maidstone Bor- l Sustainability Poor public services the M20 around Bearsted Road. ough Council (MBC), they would By Dennis Fowle and amenities cannot sustain an in- The carriageway will be triple the number of houses in their crease in population and traffic. widened between Bearsted Road Domesday Book riverside village and Simon Finlay Medical care and supplies are only and New Cut Road, and traffic from about 650 to more than 2,000. accessible by car; there are no cycle lights will be introduced at J7. They would also add massively to lanes or safe footpaths and the school The 18-month works, while traffic problems on their narrow is over subscribed. needed to ease the worsening cri- country lanes, already seriously grid- Cllr Charlton said: “Your council sis on one road as a result of Maid- locked at times. will strenuously defend East Farleigh stone Borough Council’s (MBC) Residents watched a site-by-site against over development. A thor- house-building programme, will presentation, with the council’s key ough plot-by-plot assessment will be cause massive disruption. reasons for objection and indications formulated and professionally pack- KCC also intends to build an ac- of extra traffic movements. They aged.” cess road into Newnham Court via then added their own objections. Of the 16 land offers, five are in the New Cut roundabout and an ap- They backed the council’s propos- heart of the parish, lining Lower plication has been submitted to als, which include engaging a plan- Road, which villagers now see as a MBC. ning specialist to help draft the Maidstone bypass as cars aim for the Pressure is mounting on the objections document to go to MBC. village bridge or Teston bridge, or roads in the area. Three new The council agreed to consider a one- Vicarage Lane and Forge Lane. They schools in the immediate area of off addition to the next parish precept weighted against development in include Bydews Farm (500 houses), the works have been given the go- to raise a fighting fund. open countryside to prevent urban Court Lodge Farm (270) and ahead. These could open almost at The presentation was made by sprawl; Vicarage Lane/Lower Road junction the same time as the work will be council chairman Cllr. Glyn Charlton l Protections The approved village (60). undertaken. (pictured). He met a senior MBC plan requires very little new devel- One of the most concerning is The opening of a new M&S store planning officer, who told him the opment; the Medway Valley conser- Court Lodge Farm, now in owner- will add further traffic. parish was not in the top tier for ac- vation area covers the river side of ship of Trinity College, Cambridge, ceptance of land offers – in fact it was Lower Road; the Loose Valley con- which also includes an enlarged Pollution risk as low as tier 3 or 4 – and there were servation area adjoins the village; business area. It proposes five access powerful reasons for refusals. l Traffic The village, with narrow roads, three on to Lower Road and TENS of thousands of people in Cllr Charlton said key reasons in- dangerous roads, a single-lane two to Forge Lane. the south-east could die in the next clude: bridge (an ancient monument) and Conservative council candidate for decade because of pollution. l Green space Large areas of green adjacent level crossing gates, already East Farleigh, Simon Webb, said: Kent, with a large population space, mainly grade 1 agricultural, suffers extensive congestion with “We must keep our villages special. I and gridlocked roads, is predicted should be retained to maintain the long delays and disruption, espe- strongly object to this historic village to have the worst death toll (almost urban anti-coalescence policy. The cially Station Hill and its approaches being joined with Tovil on one side 5,000) compared to its neighbour- national planning policy is strongly and winding Dean Street; and Fant on the other. It’s too much.” ing counties, says the British Heart Foundation. East Sussex would suffer 2,200 deaths by comparison. The BHF is calling for World Health Organisation guidelines on Protestors oppose 2,000 homes the airborne pollutants to be made ABOUT 40 protestors from the Mar- law in Britain. den Planning Opposition group turned up at the town hall on Jan- Have your say uary 7 to hand in a petition. DOWNS Mail’s online poll on the The movement is against 2,000 housing crisis facing the borough houses being built in the village as has sparked a huge response, with part of Maidstone Borough Coun- almost 2,000 voting so far. cil's massive house-building pro- We asked: “Given mounting gramme. concerns among residents about Wearing distinctive yellow and house-building, traffic on the roads black T-shirts, the members at- and the squeeze on public services, tended the meeting of the inﬂuen- should Liberal Democrat-con- tial strategic planning and trolled Maidstone Borough Coun- infrastructure committee, as part of cil consider the suspension of any the SaveMarden campaign. further development?” Conservative borough councillor As we went to press, 95% said Jonathan Purle said: “It was a pretty ‘yes’ while only 5% said ‘no’. impressive effort to get dozens of Go to www.downsmail.co.uk/ people out on a January evening, views/14/ to vote. just a few days into the new year."

18 Maidstone February 2020 News | Housing downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Housing | News A249 scheme moves ahead Village backs council MBC boss to oversee Lenham plan AN ambitious multi-million pound scheme to ease congestion A SENIOR director at Maidstone Brough Council (MBC) has been appointed to oversee plans for on the often gridlocked A249 has 5,000 houses at Lenham Heath, sparking fears it has inched closer to becoming a reality. progressed, after Kent County in call for sites battle William Cornall, currently di- MBC claims that the Lenham Council applied for permission to extend it further. rector of regeneration, has been Heath proposal – which was in The £11m A249 Bearsted Road EAST Farleigh residents packed the school hall and supported their asked to “continue to develop’the the call for sites – is not a foregone How Mr Cornall Improvement Scheme was given parish council in a fight against 16 land offers for residential development. scheme for which the Liberal conclusion, but is under govern- the go-ahead two years ago to en- Democrat-led authority is styling ment pressure to provide more announced role large the roundabaouts near J7 of If permitted by Maidstone Bor- l Sustainability Poor public services itself as a master developer. than 28,000 homes in the bor- ANNOUNCING his new role, the M20 around Bearsted Road. ough Council (MBC), they would By Dennis Fowle and amenities cannot sustain an in- He has been asked to undertake ough. Last year, Downs Mail William Cornall wrote: “The council The carriageway will be triple the number of houses in their crease in population and traffic. the role by the authority’s chief broke the story of plans to build is exploring the possibility of act- widened between Bearsted Road Domesday Book riverside village and Simon Finlay Medical care and supplies are only executive, Alison Broom, and will on the heathland, which may also ing as the master-developer for a and New Cut Road, and traffic from about 650 to more than 2,000. accessible by car; there are no cycle “step away” from the Local Plan come with an M20 junction and a (council-led) garden community in lights will be introduced at J7. They would also add massively to lanes or safe footpaths and the school Review (LPR). The LPR will be high-speed rail link. the Lenham Heath area (known as The 18-month works, while traffic problems on their narrow is over subscribed. overseen by a new director, Philip Many tax-payers now fear the Heathlands). needed to ease the worsening cri- country lanes, already seriously grid- Cllr Charlton said: “Your council Coyne. borough cannot cope with the “The chief executive has asked sis on one road as a result of Maid- locked at times. will strenuously defend East Farleigh The council, committed under sheer scale of development while me to continue to develop this pro- stone Borough Council’s (MBC) Residents watched a site-by-site against over development. A thor- central government direction, to no new significant infrastructure posal, so it is appropriate for me to house-building programme, will presentation, with the council’s key ough plot-by-plot assessment will be deliver 17,600 new homes under has been delivered. step away from the Local Plan Re- cause massive disruption. reasons for objection and indications formulated and professionally pack- the Local Plan adopted in 2017, Some elected members have be- view, to ensure there are no con- KCC also intends to build an ac- of extra traffic movements. They aged.” could take another 10,500 in the come increasingly concerned the flicts of interest in respect of the cess road into Newnham Court via then added their own objections. Of the 16 land offers, five are in the LPR. council’s dealing lack trans- council’s two roles; that of master- against the plans. New Cut roundabout and an ap- They backed the council’s propos- heart of the parish, lining Lower MBC recently completed a “call parency. developer and that of local plan- Borough independent council- plication has been submitted to als, which include engaging a plan- Road, which villagers now see as a for sites” submissions process More damning is the accusation ning authority. lor Eddie Powell, who has criti- MBC. ning specialist to help draft the Maidstone bypass as cars aim for the where landowners suggest plots that it is “officer-led”. “I am pleased to confirm the ap- cised the council's approach to its Pressure is mounting on the objections document to go to MBC. village bridge or Teston bridge, or of land for development. Lenham Commenting on Mr Coyne's pointment of an interim local plan recent call for sites, said: “It is just roads in the area. Three new The council agreed to consider a one- Vicarage Lane and Forge Lane. They was one such site proposed by appointment, Cllr Jonathan Purle review director, Philip Coyne, who yet more confirmation that MBC schools in the immediate area of off addition to the next parish precept weighted against development in include Bydews Farm (500 houses), MBC. said: “How many more highly- will oversee the LPR for an initial has pre-determined its own the works have been given the go- to raise a fighting fund. open countryside to prevent urban Court Lodge Farm (270) and But the move has been de- paid directors are there going to six-month period. Philip will report scheme. It means that those peo- ahead. These could open almost at The presentation was made by sprawl; Vicarage Lane/Lower Road junction scribed as “yet more confirma- be? Not sure that this was agreed to the chief executive and will be ple who submitted hundreds of the same time as the work will be council chairman Cllr. Glyn Charlton l Protections The approved village (60). tion” that the council has at the policy and resources com- based in the planning policy team. proposals in the call for sites have undertaken. (pictured). He met a senior MBC plan requires very little new devel- One of the most concerning is “pre-determined” its own scheme mittee or that any decision was “I will continue to oversee the probably wasted their time. The The opening of a new M&S store planning officer, who told him the opment; the Medway Valley conser- Court Lodge Farm, now in owner- and will be a blow to the growing made with any reference to the rest of the planning department.” will add further traffic. parish was not in the top tier for ac- vation area covers the river side of ship of Trinity College, Cambridge, protest movement in Lenham whole thing stinks.” councillors.” ceptance of land offers – in fact it was Lower Road; the Loose Valley con- which also includes an enlarged Pollution risk as low as tier 3 or 4 – and there were servation area adjoins the village; business area. It proposes five access powerful reasons for refusals. l Traffic The village, with narrow roads, three on to Lower Road and Protecting sky TENS of thousands of people in Cllr Charlton said key reasons in- dangerous roads, a single-lane two to Forge Lane. COUNCILLORS have taken steps Call for sites process moves on the south-east could die in the next clude: bridge (an ancient monument) and Conservative council candidate for to prevent over-development of decade because of pollution. THE process of whittling 334 sub- l Green space Large areas of green adjacent level crossing gates, already East Farleigh, Simon Webb, said: the “skyscapes”. Kent, with a large population missions down to a list of poten- space, mainly grade 1 agricultural, suffers extensive congestion with “We must keep our villages special. I Cllr Steve Munford called for a and gridlocked roads, is predicted tial building plots in the should be retained to maintain the long delays and disruption, espe- strongly object to this historic village policy to protect the sky as well as to have the worst death toll (almost controversial “call for sites” exer- urban anti-coalescence policy. The cially Station Hill and its approaches being joined with Tovil on one side the land. 5,000) compared to its neighbour- cise will take its next step on national planning policy is strongly and winding Dean Street; and Fant on the other. It’s too much.” MBC was forced to abandon ing counties, says the British Heart plans for a 14 storey block of flats March 10. Foundation. East Sussex would at The Broadway when the plan to That is when many of the spec- suffer 2,200 deaths by comparison. move the war memorial to accom- ulative house-building schemes The BHF is calling for World modate it sparked outrage. will either be thrown out or Health Organisation guidelines on Protestors oppose 2,000 homes moved forward. the airborne pollutants to be made The Liberal Democrat-led coun- ABOUT 40 protestors from the Mar- law in Britain. cil is bound by central Govern- den Planning Opposition group Rebels’ voice ment to deliver 17,600 houses in turned up at the town hall on Jan- A FACEBOOK page set up for its Local Plan and may have to uary 7 to hand in a petition. people concerned about over-de- Have your say take another 10,500 in its review. The movement is against 2,000 velopment in the borough al- DOWNS Mail’s online poll on the Among those almost certainly houses being built in the village as ready has more than 180 who has been appointed by the for a revision of its methodology housing crisis facing the borough on the list will be MBC's own plan part of Maidstone Borough Coun- followers. council to lead the 5,000 homes for calculating housing numbers. has sparked a huge response, with for 5,000 houses at Lenham cil's massive house-building pro- Housing Rebellion Maidstone is scheme, was billed to be on hand It will now be down to the af- almost 2,000 voting so far. Heath. gramme. designed to be a sounding board to answer questions from an ex- fected MPs to lobby ministers to We asked: “Given mounting Critics say MBC's ambitions to Wearing distinctive yellow and for those worried that roads and pected audience of 300 people. make those revisions a reality. concerns among residents about be a “master developer” is in di- black T-shirts, the members at- services are unable to cope with Residents have been angered by Residents are becoming in- house-building, traffic on the roads rect conflict with its being the tended the meeting of the influen- MBC’s housing quotas. MBC's “secret” plans to acquire creasingly worried about the ef- and the squeeze on public services, planning authority. MBC denies tial strategic planning and private land to create a “garden fect large scale housing should Liberal Democrat-con- any such conflict. infrastructure committee, as part of community”. development is having on the trolled Maidstone Borough Coun- Housing rally A public meeting to discuss the SaveMarden campaign. Last month, Conservative op- borough and beyond, without ad- cil consider the suspension of any Maidstone Borough Council's Conservative borough councillor SAVE Our Heath Lands, the pres- position group leader Cllr John equate roads and service provi- further development?” plan to become the master devel- Jonathan Purle said: “It was a pretty sure group opposed to 5,000 Perry successfully persuaded a sion. As we went to press, 95% said oper of the massive housing de- impressive effort to get dozens of homes at Lenham Heath, plans a majority of elected members to Sevenoaks District Council re- ‘yes’ while only 5% said ‘no’. velopment at Lenham Heath was people out on a January evening, rally in early February. take the council’s entire housing fused to accept the housing target Go to www.downsmail.co.uk/ Go to www.saveourheath- due to be held on January 24. views/14/ to vote. just a few days into the new year." proposition to the Government imposed on it, having challenged lands.co.uk for details. MBC director William Cornall, via local MPs, pleading the case the Government's targets.

Maidstone February 2020 19 News downsmail.co.uk Young music stars on stage New Bishop of Dover EIGHT finalists will compete to be crowned Maidstone Young Musician 2020. talks about her role The contest will be held at The Groves Hall at Sutton Va- MAIDSTONE’S new leading light lence School from 7pm on Sat- in the Anglican church has spoken urday, January 18. for the first time about taking on Eight contestants have been the role of Bishop of Dover. chosen to perform in the final, The right-hand woman of the New Bishop based on their performances Archbishop of Canterbury, Rose of Dover, at the Maidstone Music Festi- Hudson-Wilkin, now manages the Rose Hudson- val at Invicta Grammar School day-to-day life of the Canterbury Wilkin, with in November 2019. Diocese. the They are Ashley Solano Speaking in East Kent’s Outlook Archbishop of (piano), Eliza Ruffle (piano), magazine, it is clear that Rose is a Canterbury, Finn Gape (piano), Siena Barr woman used to facing life’s chal- Justin Welby (clarinet), Leonie Carrette lenges, becoming one of the first (voice), Daniel Pengelly women priests accepted into the the hardest parts of the job, com- have been posed not only by her (flute), Emma Courtness Church of England in 1994. menting that she listened with an gender. She reflects: “As a woman of (voice) and Oliver Moh (cello). As well as being a mum, the last open heart, preferring simply to African and Caribbean heritage, I Maidstone Young Musician nine years of her religious career has “love the people one is called to have, unfortunately, faced racism. is run by the Rotary Club of involved working with politicians serve unconditionally”. But I have never spent my energy on Maidstone Dawn Patrol. It during one of the nation’s most tur- The article goes on to say that Rose this. I reassure myself that, for those also acts as the local heat for bulent periods. As Chaplain to the has hope, knowing there were many who reject me, it’s their loss.” national Rotary Young Musi- Speaker of the House of Commons, Parliamentarians “genuine about Her ambition to change that, the cian. leading services at the Palace of wanting the best for their con- article concludes, is: “making it nor- Tickets are £5.50 per adult Westminster, she was the go-to stituents”. mal to talk about faith and do prayer and £2.75 per child. To book person for MPs looking for spiritual Baptised at four months in the An- in a very natural way, enabling each visit www.wegottickets.com/ guidance. glican Church in Jamaica and bat- other to be comfortable with the lan- event/485283 . The article reveals that containing tling to find a leading role to spread guage of faith and ‘walking the talk’ her own political views was one of her faith, she admits these challenges together”.

20 Maidstone February 2020 Maidstone February 2020 21 News downsmail.co.uk Killing a new low for hospital THE Cygnet mental hospital in Maidstone has rarely been out of the news since it opened, with reports of violence, assault, weapon carrying and escape, but this summer culminated in a killing. Simon Finlay charts a short, troubled history… THE slaughter of a father at the hands of his son, after his early release from the Cygnet mental hospital in Maidstone, marked the nadir of months of trouble since the facility opened in Oc- tober 2018. Jonathan MacMillan (28), inset picture, convinced his dad John was possessed by Satan, stabbed him in the chest five times and in- flicted a 10-inch wound to his neck and spinal column. A judge ordered Jonathan to be detained indefinitely after admit- ting manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility. He also ordered an inquiry, which will try to ascertain why a dangerous and seriously mentally ill man was deemed fit to leave the hospital and find out who al- lowed the departure to happen a ments of pre-planning by ity Commission, which rated the Dannielle, who has suffered month before his due date. Jonathan and some attempts by hospital “good” overall, said with mental health issues for a It throws the spotlight yet again him to cobble together an alibi Cygnet in Maidstone “required decade, went into “meltdown” at on an institution bedevilled by a after the killing. improvement” on the central Cygnet and stopped washing, eat- series of, if one is charitable, un- Whether his early release con- question: “Is it safe?” ing, drinking or taking her medi- fortunate incidents. tributed to the outcome is for the CQC inspectors reported five cation. The unit was a noisy, scary One does not expect the treat- inquiry, but the judge, the Hon- “serious incidents” at the 65-bed place at night, she said. ment of the mentally ill, particu- orary Recorder of Preston, Mark hospital, including one involving Her mother, an old hand at larly those with a history of Brown, could not have been a weapon and an escape. dealing with private mental violent crime, to always go clearer. The report for the March in- healthcare providers, said she had smoothly. He said at sentencing: “He spection read: “Types of incidents to “push and push and push” to But there appears to be a chorus should never, ever have been dis- recorded included physical ag- have Danielle moved. of voices growing louder by the charged from hospital in Kent, gression from patient to patient or Andrea observed: “I get that day about the standard and level certainly not into the commu- patient to staff, and property this is a business ... but there is of care afforded to these most vul- nity.” damage.” something nagging me that says nerable in society, especially in Dr Stephen Barlow, a psychia- These were prevalent on private firms should not be run- hands of private, profit-driven trist working at HMP Preston Bearsted ward, which takes refer- ning secure mental health units.” providers like Cygnet. who assessed Jonathan, observed: rals of those detained under the And this appears to be nub of Local worries that such a facil- “Looking at the case as a whole, I Mental Health Act and the crimi- the issue. ity could be prone to dangers so struggle to understand the deci- nal justice system. Parents across the country are close to a large residential area sion … to simply discharge him Inspectors also highlighted dif- fighting for better care in child were seemingly allayed by assur- from hospital, rather than transfer ficulties in moving patients back and adolescent mental health ser- ances from the US-owned com- him back to hospital.” to their local areas. vices (CAMHS). pany, particularly when schools The warning signs were there, Neither Cygnet nor the NHS as- The pressure group CAMHS in for special needs and primary age clear as day. sisted this newspaper in its at- Crisis cites a lack of safety, care- pupils were first mooted close to The NHS West Kent Clinical tempts to detail the nature and less and bad management, the site, and then approved in the Commissioning Group (CCG) or- frequency of these incidents, de- penny-pinching, turned blind face of a public outcry. dered a multi-agency inquiry spite repeated requests. eyes, sloppy regimes, inadequate Not any more. after a “disproportionate” num- Concerns about the safety of staffing, poor procedures and in- Preston Crown Court heard ber of violent incidents at the unit children at the two new schools adequately trained or untrained Jonathan was assessed as high in April. next door to Cygnet were largely staff at some of these facilities as risk in May, yet three weeks into Downs Mail found there were 29 ignored. drivers towards failure. his stay at Cygnet, he was re- reports to Kent Police in a 26-day Residents, councillors and Many providers are excellent – assessed as low risk and sent back period from April 2-28 at Cygnet’s clergy who doubted the wisdom well managed, safe, caring and ef- home to Barrow. Kent Medical Campus unit, all for of setting a mental hospital there fective. John MacMillan (70) had voiced violent conduct. Insiders say these in the first place were similarly It will be up to the inquiry to as- fears about his son being let out might have been linked to patients’ dismissed. certain what happened leading too soon, and community mental access to phones. Andrea Attree, a mother whose up to John MacMillan’s death in health worker Lauren Wray tried But at its conclusion, the in- 22-year-old daughter spent 17 Barrow last June, but Cygnet is to contact the Cygnet unit to ex- quiry acknowledged an action days at Cygnet in Maidstone, was unlikely to emerge with any press these misgivings. plan had been agreed. unimpressed by the level of care credit if Judge Brown’s remarks Evidence seems to show ele- Even before this, the Care Qual- provided there. are anything to go by.

22 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Drugs charges Traﬃc and staﬀ illness A MAN has been charged with drugs offences after police seized amphetamine and cocaine with an street value of up to £220,000. Kent Police searched a car in blamed for missed bins Maidstone near the junction of the M20 and the A229 at 12.30am on COUNCIL bin collectors are and recycling service over the Wednesday, December 18. missing dozens of rounds each past few months. Regrettably, the Around 22kg of amphetamine month because their lorries are disruption to service has been due was found in the boot, as well as 41 getting stuck in traffic. to a combination of issues, pre- wraps of cocaine and about £1,000 Between 10 and 15 circuits are dominantly vehicle breakdowns, in cash. missed each week because con- and restricted access to areas Sean Musgrove (30), of Rolven- tractors Biffa have suffered staff which have resulted in collections den Road, Tenterden, was charged shortages due to sickness, vehicle being repeatedly delayed. with possession of class A drugs, breakdowns and the borough “We are very sorry to the resi- class B drugs and criminal prop- council's choc-a-bloc roads, ac- dents who have been affected and erty. He will appear in court at a cording to a Maidstone Borough continue to work with Biffa to de- later. Council statement. liver a more reliable service. The Liberal Democrat-led au- “The collection crews are work- thority has admitted the service is ing hard to catch up, including Beating trial “unreliable” and vowed to have shifts across the weekends, which THE trial of a man accused of beat- done better in the Christmas pe- both MBC and Biffa are extremely ing a woman has been adjourned. riod when the service level grateful for.” David Brown (28), of Owletts changed but demand was at its MBC has arranged for Biffa to Close, Shepway, appeared at Med- height. start one hour earlier and has way Magistrates Court on Decem- MBC has apologised for the added two more vehicles to the ber 18 on three charges. poor performance of the service, fleet, recruited five extra staff and He pleaded not guilty to crimi- which is funded by the tax-payer. dropped. introduced dedicated crews to re- nal damage, assault by beating, Critics blame the council's Jennifer Shepherd, the council’s attempt collections where they and engaging in controlling and house-building programme for head of environment and public have been missed. coercive behaviour. creating demand for the collection realm, said: “Maidstone Borough l Have you been affected by a A trial date has been set for and a lack of suitable infrastruc- Council would like to apologise poor bin collection? Drop us a February 20 at Medway Magis- ture which causes rounds to be for the disruption to the refuse line at [email protected]. trates Court.

Business Focus

Maidstone February 2020 23 News | Churches downsmail.co.uk Stylist has designs on church ANTHEA Mitchell has blue hair and wears crazy coloured boots to work and is the face of a growing number of “working vicars”. At 53, the step-mum of one has said: “They have now grown owned Hair Professional in King used to the idea and that talk of Street for 30 years, and is now cut- God is less weird than they first ting herself a career as one of a thought and more relevant.” new breed of “Ministers in Secu- She believes by keeping her cur- lar Employment”. rent job she will be able to reach The former Maidstone Girls’ more people who simply want to Grammar School girl told Downs talk or offload some of the chal- Mail: “I had shelved the idea of lenges life presents, but who do becoming a vicar because I as- not attend church. sumed it was too late after devel- “I’ve always loved to talk and a oping the salon. But, with huge salon is a great place to commu- encouragement from the congre- nicate.” she said. “I don’t intend gation at St Paul’s, I decided to to adopt any new character or step up.” force beliefs on to anyone but I’m She said: “As a working vicar, I here in a welcoming environment can combine both my passions.” and always happy to listen.” That means 70 hours a week in the salon, theology college at West Malling, her religious stud- Rev Chris seeks new pastures ies and support work at St Paul’s. This will result in her ordination THE humour and the guitar play- any longer. The Diocese has been next summer. ing will be missing from services very supportive.” She said: “It’s a long journey, as Rev Chris Key heads off to He says he is looking forward to but it is only right the Church York after more than six years at retirement, and the chance to in- makes sure your calling is gen- St Luke’s. dulge hobbies, which include uine.” A keen walker, the 64-year-old photography and bird watching. Her work will be on a voluntary has bought a house for his city es- He told Downs Mail: “I don’t basis, with the salon serving as cape with wife Mary, their dog suppose it will be long before I her own “church in the commu- and two cats. am volunteering my services to nity”. After being ordained at 25, Rev the Church again in York, but on a Asked what her colleagues feel Key says: “It is time for some new more part-time basis!” about the prospect of her turning blood. I will miss my congrega- St Luke’s and his popular lead- up to work in a dog collar, she ad- tion and the friends I have made ership have created a congrega- mits they were bemused. She ,but I can’t cope with the stress tion of 200-250. Reshuﬄe to help bishop Why attendance is growing REPORTS of rising congregations Rev John Corbyn, of Holy corn and the Suttons, she believes MAIDSTONE’S Archdeacon at cathedrals across the country Cross Church, Bearsted, believes there is still a huge affinity for Stephen Taylor has been called on have been welcomed, but do they cathedrals have capitalised on a people with their local church and to serve as the new Bishop of offer a wider insight into today’s rising call for “a sense of occa- family connections. Dover’s right-hand man as she set- connection with faith? sion”. Ian Parrish is the Priest in tles into her new post. Downs Mail has asked local Rose Hudson-Wilkin was ap- He said: “Canterbury, for ex- Charge at All Saints’ with St pointed at the end of last year, and church leaders what their take is ample, is a World Heritage Site, Philip in Maidstone and St with no break in service from her on the figures, which show that with a professional choir. Stephen’s in Tovil. previous posting as Chaplain to more people attended a cathedral “Christians want to maintain The huge 1,000-seater church in the Speaker of the House of Com- service at Easter (58,000) and their connection with the Church the centre of town is one of the mons, she is being assisted into her Holy Week (95,000) in 2018 than on important occasions. They UK’s listed “Great Churches” and new role and with introductions to at any time in the last decade – don’t want Christmas to be all almost 7,500 people attended ser- the many faces in the area. with attendance at Christmas and about a trip to Bluewater, but are vices in December. The appointment of Rev Taylor Advent 5% up on the previous looking for something bigger.” He said: “I think All Saints’, like as one of her senior aides means year at 750,000. Holy Cross holds five services our large cathedrals, offers the his duties as Archdeacon in Maid- At Rochester Cathedral, its on Christmas Eve and its Crib anonymity to just drop in. It also stone have been handed over tem- evensong service on Christmas Service, for the last three years, provides the choir, bells and porarily to Rev Canon Andrew Eve traditionally attracts 250 peo- has been at 6pm, producing a 25% smells that allow many to remi- Sewell, Priest in Charge at St Paul’s ple, but this time 800 attended. increase in numbers. nisce.” in Boxley Road. Taking on his role Weekday service numbers at Rev Ruth Haskett said: “If peo- In terms of resources, he says as Area Dean is Rev Chris Laven- cathedrals are also up 14% on the ple are going to Church, wherever good use of social media has been der, Priest in Charge at St Nicholas' previous 10 years to 37,000, with that is, I’m very pleased. Like a made by cathedrals to engage Church, Allington. more attending mid-week than on magnet, the bigger the response with the public, whereas smaller It is thought the temporary post- Sunday for only the second time the stronger the pull becomes.” churches still often rely on parish ings will be for up to six months. since records began. Based in the villages of Head- magazines to spread the word.

24 Maidstone February 2020 News | Churches downsmail.co.uk Stylist has designs on church Winter Burglary ANTHEA Mitchell has blue hair and wears crazy coloured boots to work and is the face of a Homes & Gardens growing number of “working vicars”. can happen At 53, the step-mum of one has said: “They have now grown owned Hair Professional in King used to the idea and that talk of to you. Street for 30 years, and is now cut- God is less weird than they first ting herself a career as one of a thought and more relevant.” new breed of “Ministers in Secu- She believes by keeping her cur- lar Employment”. rent job she will be able to reach Over EXUJODULHV The former Maidstone Girls’ more people who simply want to LQ.HQW last year and a Grammar School girl told Downs talk or offload some of the chal- Mail: “I had shelved the idea of lenges life presents, but who do reported LQFUHDVH becoming a vicar because I as- not attend church. in London” sumed it was too late after devel- “I’ve always loved to talk and a oping the salon. But, with huge salon is a great place to commu- encouragement from the congre- nicate.” she said. “I don’t intend gation at St Paul’s, I decided to to adopt any new character or Brook Security has been protecting homes and businesses for more than 20 years. step up.” force beliefs on to anyone but I’m She said: “As a working vicar, I here in a welcoming environment We are NACOSS Gold accredited and can provide the very best standards of security. can combine both my passions.” and always happy to listen.” That means 70 hours a week in the salon, theology college at West Malling, her religious stud- Rev Chris seeks new pastures ies and support work at St Paul’s. This will result in her ordination THE humour and the guitar play- any longer. The Diocese has been Contact us now for your FREE consultation: next summer. ing will be missing from services very supportive.” She said: “It’s a long journey, as Rev Chris Key heads off to He says he is looking forward to [email protected] 281 | www.brooksecurity.com 249 but it is only right the Church York after more than six years at retirement, and the chance to in- makes sure your calling is gen- St Luke’s. dulge hobbies, which include %XUJODUDODUPV&&79$FFHVVFRQWURO uine.” A keen walker, the 64-year-old photography and bird watching. Her work will be on a voluntary has bought a house for his city es- He told Downs Mail: “I don’t basis, with the salon serving as cape with wife Mary, their dog suppose it will be long before I her own “church in the commu- and two cats. am volunteering my services to nity”. After being ordained at 25, Rev the Church again in York, but on a Asked what her colleagues feel Key says: “It is time for some new more part-time basis!” about the prospect of her turning blood. I will miss my congrega- St Luke’s and his popular lead- up to work in a dog collar, she ad- tion and the friends I have made ership have created a congrega- mits they were bemused. She ,but I can’t cope with the stress tion of 200-250.

UK Leadwork & Roofing Ltd: Reshuﬄe to We’re not just experts in all things roofing and leadwork, we’re here to make Why attendance is growing sure you and your roof has the proper aftercare needed to keep you warm help bishop and dry for years to come: REPORTS of rising congregations Rev John Corbyn, of Holy corn and the Suttons, she believes MAIDSTONE’S Archdeacon at cathedrals across the country Cross Church, Bearsted, believes there is still a huge affinity for Stephen Taylor has been called on have been welcomed, but do they cathedrals have capitalised on a people with their local church and • Storm damage • Flat roofs • liquid rubber (Poly Roof ™) to serve as the new Bishop of offer a wider insight into today’s rising call for “a sense of occa- family connections. • Insurance work • All domestic works undertaken • We guarantee Dover’s right-hand man as she set- connection with faith? sion”. Ian Parrish is the Priest in all our work. No quibble. No fuss. No nonsense. • We won’t be tles into her new post. Downs Mail has asked local Rose Hudson-Wilkin was ap- He said: “Canterbury, for ex- Charge at All Saints’ with St beaten on price! pointed at the end of last year, and church leaders what their take is ample, is a World Heritage Site, Philip in Maidstone and St with no break in service from her on the figures, which show that with a professional choir. Stephen’s in Tovil. Are you looking to buy a house soon? Give yourself peace of mind with a full previous posting as Chaplain to more people attended a cathedral “Christians want to maintain The huge 1,000-seater church in roof MOT with UK Roofing and Leadwork aerial drone surveys. Our fully trained the Speaker of the House of Com- service at Easter (58,000) and their connection with the Church the centre of town is one of the drone operators will inspect all aspects of your roof in 4k HD. Fully written mons, she is being assisted into her Holy Week (95,000) in 2018 than on important occasions. They UK’s listed “Great Churches” and report and video file on completion. Prices start from £49.99* (plus VAT) new role and with introductions to at any time in the last decade – don’t want Christmas to be all almost 7,500 people attended ser- the many faces in the area. with attendance at Christmas and about a trip to Bluewater, but are vices in December. We are a close-knit team who take pride in our The appointment of Rev Taylor Advent 5% up on the previous looking for something bigger.” He said: “I think All Saints’, like as one of her senior aides means year at 750,000. Holy Cross holds five services our large cathedrals, offers the workmanship and customer care. his duties as Archdeacon in Maid- At Rochester Cathedral, its on Christmas Eve and its Crib anonymity to just drop in. It also stone have been handed over tem- evensong service on Christmas Service, for the last three years, provides the choir, bells and porarily to Rev Canon Andrew Eve traditionally attracts 250 peo- has been at 6pm, producing a 25% smells that allow many to remi- Call us today for a free estimate! Sewell, Priest in Charge at St Paul’s ple, but this time 800 attended. increase in numbers. nisce.” in Boxley Road. Taking on his role Weekday service numbers at Rev Ruth Haskett said: “If peo- In terms of resources, he says as Area Dean is Rev Chris Laven- cathedrals are also up 14% on the ple are going to Church, wherever good use of social media has been der, Priest in Charge at St Nicholas' previous 10 years to 37,000, with that is, I’m very pleased. Like a made by cathedrals to engage Office: 01622 244167 Church, Allington. more attending mid-week than on magnet, the bigger the response with the public, whereas smaller Mobile: 07734 950882 It is thought the temporary post- Sunday for only the second time the stronger the pull becomes.” churches still often rely on parish Email: [email protected] ings will be for up to six months. since records began. Based in the villages of Head- magazines to spread the word.

Maidstone February 2020 25 Winter

DESIGN, PLANNING & BUILDING REGULATIONS Homes & Gardens

We offer a full design service from planning your new house, extension or conversion to gaining the relevant permissions and approvals.

We can guide you through the whole process and deal with any matters that may arise in helping you achieve a bigger or better home.

01622 812868 WWW.JOHNCHILDS.COM

SKIP HIRE 01233 660 099 Commercial & Domestic www.gboxkent.com Recycling Services

Book Online Order your skip via secure 24hr online book facility Skip Hire Roll On/Offs 4 yard skip £200 inc vat Road Permits Arranged 6 yard skip £240 inc vat Waste Recycling Facility 8 yard skip £280 inc vat Many more services available 12 yard skip £360 inc vat See website for details

26 Maidstone February 2020 Winter Homes & Gardens

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Buy 5 Bags ALL LOADS Ltd. of Top Soil Specialists in Supplying Aggregates GET ONE FREE!*

TOP SOIL - TURF - SAND - BALLAST - LOGS

Skip Loading Dumpers Available Doorway Diggers up to 3 Tonne

*(on general purpose soil) MACHINE HIRE AVAILABLE 01622 873231 www.allloads.co.uk [email protected]

Maidstone February 2020 27 News downsmail.co.uk Drunk jailed Shoplifter ‘lost her job after threats A DRUNKEN reveller who threatened to stab door staff with a kitchen knife outside a Maid- after partner cheated’ stone bar has been jailed for 15 months. A MOTHER of two’s life spi- and security officers found her the Rimas Mickevicius was armed ralled out of control after the fa- next day in Marks and Spencer’s.” with a blade during a drink-fuelled ther of her children allegedly Defending, John Roberts said: “It confrontation near the Market cheated on her, a court heard. all started to go wrong two years Buildings. The incident happened Former care coordinator Katie ago, when she was cheated on by during the early hours of January Fellowes (25), of Lancashire Road, her partner of seven years. She lost 5, 2019 after Mickevicius and a Maidstone, lost her job and her her job because she stopped going friend were thrown out of a bar. home after she hit the bottle, often to work. A judge heard they left, but came downing two bottles of wine a “She also lost her council accom- back with large knives which they night. modation and she says she just felt motioned in the direction of the The court heard Fellowes went like burying her head in the sand.” victims. on a shoplifting spree in Maidstone The court heard Fellowes’ GP One of the victims threw a stool and Sevenoaks, helping herself to had diagnosed her with depression at them, which Mickevicius then more than £1,000 worth of goods. and she was currently taking med- hurled back into a crowd of people. Prosecuting, Debbie Jones told ication. Police attended and the men Maidstone Magistrate Court: “On Chairman of the bench, Ian tried to flee but were arrested. August 23, the defendant was spot- Daniel said: “We’ve heard about “The weapons were found in a ted putting goods worth £942 in your lifestyle and the context of nearby bin.” her bag at Boots in Sevenoaks. these offences, which are very seri- Appearing before Maidstone “On the same day, she went to ous, by the way.” Crown Court, Mickevicius (29), Marks and Spencer’s and did the Fellowes admitted three counts formerly of east London, pleaded same. of theft and was ordered to stay out guilty to threats with a knife. “On December 11, she stole five of Boots, Marks and Spencer and Tomas Kozeniauskas (34), of no bottles of perfume from House of House of Fraser for six months. She fixed address, had previously Fraser, in Maidstone, valued at must also attend a Believe and Suc- pleaded guilty to the same offence £448. The alarms went off this time, ceed programme. and was jailed for 22 months.

• Commercial and Domestic • Partitions • Suspended Ceilings • Fire / Sound prooﬁng • Metsec • Plastering / Screeding • Complete Oce ﬁt out • Specialist Render Systems

Contact Ian Baker 07980 013923 / 01622 632673 [email protected]

28 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk Careers

HERE are ﬁve top tips when searching for a job in 2020, according to Jobcen- tre Plus. 1 Keep your CV updated Be prepared to tailor it to the needs of the jobs you are applying for. Your CV will determine whether you get an interview. 2 Log your good work outside work Don't be afraid to tell employers about your hobbies, volunteering or organisa- tional skills. 3 Turn negatives to positives Admit New start for new year when a project has not gone to plan and how you learned from it. Always NEW year, new challenge? As we If that is your goal in 2020, its online recruitment offer to job emphasise strengths. start 2020, are you looking for a you’re not alone. seekers. 4 Do your research Employers may new job? Recent research has shown We have thousands of job op- ask: “What do you know about us?” Perhaps it's time to move on or that two thirds of us may well be portunities across Maidstone and Show an interest in the company, its team and work. land the career step-up you've looking for a new or, at least, bet- Malling to choose from, as well as 5 Get support There are many routes been looking for. ter job this year. the rest of Kent and beyond. available to you at your local Jobcen- Maybe you're getting back Well, you've come to the right All you have to do is head for tre, like gaining experience through into the world of work or search- place. That’s because Downs or go straight work placements or going through a downsmail.co.uk sector-based work academy. ing for a niche in retirement. Mail has just massively expanded to www.downsmail.co.uk/jobs/.

Independent Award-winning Forward thinking Affordable

Maidstone February 2020 29 News downsmail.co.uk Borough council ‘officer-led’ LEADERS of three of the four main groupings at Maidstone Borough Council were left in the dark over a decision to scrap tax-payers’ right to pay their bills in cash, we can reveal. The resolution was condemned by one as “disgusting” and has prompted a damning accusation by another that the Liberal Democrat authority is now “officer-led”. Controversy was sparked when Maidstone Borough Council announced the loss of one of two cash payment machines, where residents can pay in rent or council tax, over the festive period. The other will be decommis- sioned in April. But opposition Conservative leader John Perry, Malcolm MacKay (Labour) and Eddie Powell (Independent Maidstone) knew nothing of the decision that From left, Independent leader will affect 2,000 taxpayers. Eddie Powell, Conservative leader PayPoint contract ‘not finalised’ The group leaders all fear it John Perry and Labour leader MAIDSTONE Borough Council will of the Pay Point system. could adversely affect the most Malcolm Mackay say they knew allow residents to use the cash pay- He wrote: “The actions being vulnerable members of society, nothing of the decision to scrap ment service, PayPoint, at shops. taken are consistent with the digital such as the elderly, people with cash payments A press release of December 30, strategy, which has been agreed by learning difficulties or those with which announced the decision to go members and decisions have been mental health issues. in the Downs Mail. It seems the "cashless", made no mention of an al- made at all times in accordance with MBC claims the decision was council is now run by the officers, ternative cash payment service, but agreed delegations.” made in April 2018, but none of not the elected members. encouraged taxpayers to set up a di- But we have learnt Maidstone Bor- the three leaders recall it being “This was sneaked out over rect debit or go online. ough Council’s contract with Pay- discussed, leading to the belief Christmas in the hope that no one A letter, dated December 2019, Point has not yet been finalised at that officers carried it out under would notice. This will hit the el- sent to cash-paying residents also the time this edition of Downs Mail the guise of an overall change to derly or people who do not have had no reference to an alternative was going to press. In fact, earlier this digital services. a bank account. Two thousand means of payment. month the council was still at the When challenged by Downs people in one borough is a lot of A further letter to be circulated in testing stage with the new service, Mail, MBC asserted, initially, that people, but I’d like to know how February will tell those affected of the according to PayPoint spokesman the decision was approved by officers came to that figure.” PayPoint option. Sam Holl. committee, but only later admit- Cllr Perry said: “Try as I might, Downs Mail asked MBC where Pay- Conservative Cllr Jonathan Purle said: “The PayPoint option wasn’t ted the decision was taken by un- I cannot recall being informed Point is mentioned in the 2018 digital strategy documents. The council mentioned in the digital strategy elected officers under “delegated about this by anyone.” refused to answer. We also asked documents and now we know why. It powers”. Independent Maidstone mem- when the alternative cash payment wasn’t there.” Cllr McKay said: “Why were ber Cllr Gordon Newton said: service was approved, for supporting Cllr MacKay added: "The strategy the members not consulted? It di- “There seem to be far too many dated documentation and the name seems to be to scare people into tak- rectly affects the people we repre- officer-led decisions and we, the of the officer with final sign-off. The ing out direct debits, because that's sent, particularly the vulnerable. elected members, don't know council has not responded. more convenient for the council, and anything about them until Disgusting plan.” But on January 16, MBC director of then mop up those who don't with they've gone through. This au- Cllr Powell said: “I'm meant to finance Mark Green wrote to elected PayPoint at the end. It's a cynical thority is in danger of being offi- be a group leader at the council, members explaining the advantages strategy." yet the first I heard about it was cer-led.” Boastful drunk urinated in patrol car A DRUNKEN hod carrier “At around 6pm on November 15, “Mr King had several opportuni- weeks and I was very stressed out. launched a verbal tirade of abuse at an off-duty policeman received re- ties to calm down, but instead he I have a job interview after this officers before urinating in the back ports that Mr King was outside shouted: ‘I’m a big-time drug hearing, which I should get.” seat of a police car. Carphone Warehouse in Maidstone dealer, how come you’re bothering Chairman of the bench, Gill Robert David King (29), of Stock- High Street waving a bottle around. me about this.’” Fryzer said: “Well, Mr King. This ett Lane, Coxheath, told officers he “On arrival, Mr King shouted at Maidstone Magistrates Court has been a very expensive morning was a “big time drug dealer” and the officer ‘who called you? You heard he then told officers at the for you. I hope you can appreciate that he earns “more in a day than can f*** off’. Mr King then went to scene his jeans were worth £300 the seriousness of this offence, and police do in a week”. Marks and Spencer’s and began and that he pays their wages. that police officers do not go to He then threatened to “roll swearing in front of young children Defending himself, King said: work to be shouted at.” around on the floor and bite the and customers. The swearing con- “I’m extremely embarrassed, and King pleaded guilty to one PC’s face and arm”. tinued into Church Street, right in I’m sorry. My employer has been charge of being drunk and disor- Kristy Harkett, prosecuting, said: front of people’s houses. withholding money from me for derly and was ordered to pay £525.

30 Maidstone February 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Health | News Parents asked Borough council ‘officer-led’ for visiting Report highlights the LEADERS of three of the four main groupings at Maidstone Borough Council were left in the dark service views over a decision to scrap tax-payers’ right to pay their bills in cash, we can reveal. THE Health Visiting Service is problems facing NHS looking for parents with young The resolution was condemned children to join a public advisory by one as “disgusting” and has group (PAGs). PROBLEMS facing the health service in Maidstone and West Kent have prompted a damning accusation The club aims to help gain feed- by another that the Liberal led to a report by Maidstone Council’s chief executive Alison Broom. back from its service users in the Democrat authority is now “offi- Maidstone and Malling areas and The issue is largely due to a with district nursing, this is being cer-led”. shortage of health professionals – redesigned to community multi- Controversy was sparked when to discuss how it can improve. the area has about the worst ratio disciplinary teams; Maidstone Borough Council an- These forums will be chaired by of patients to GPs in the country. l Connectivity: Improving links nounced the loss of one of two the health visitor district manager The council now works increas- between primary care and ser- cash payment machines, where and will run roughly four times a residents can pay in rent or coun- year. ingly closely with the budget- vices impacting on health (such as cil tax, over the festive period. The scheme kicked off in January holding GP-led NHS West Kent housing, leisure, debt and finan- The other will be decommis- and the next group get-together is Clinical Commissioning Group cial management) will improve sioned in April. not expected until the spring with (CCG) and Mrs Broom (pictured) outcomes and reduce pressure on But opposition Conservative a date to be advised. is on three sub-groups. health systems; leader John Perry, Malcolm There is no need to book in ad- Her key points in the report l Kent’s new medical school: MacKay (Labour) and Eddie vance. being considered by the council’s This is now operating and doctors Powell (Independent Maidstone) Everyone is welcome, including Community, Housing and Envi- will be trained from September to knew nothing of the decision that From left, Independent leader children. ronment Committee are: include placements in hospitals, will affect 2,000 taxpayers. Eddie Powell, Conservative leader PayPoint contract ‘not finalised’ Water and fruit will be provided, l Workforce: The NHS is to in- GP practices and other NHS The group leaders all fear it John Perry and Labour leader MAIDSTONE Borough Council will of the Pay Point system. and travel will be reimbursed. troduce 20,000 extra workers in to providers. could adversely affect the most Malcolm Mackay say they knew allow residents to use the cash pay- He wrote: “The actions being If you have any questions, or if primary care nationally, and new cantly, with help from teams of Mrs Broom says it is important vulnerable members of society, nothing of the decision to scrap ment service, PayPoint, at shops. taken are consistent with the digital you have any communication re- models and partners at local level health professionals and groups to promote Maidstone as “an at- such as the elderly, people with cash payments A press release of December 30, strategy, which has been agreed by quirements please contact Sue to improve managerial leadership, of practices working together. tractive place to live and work”. learning difficulties or those with which announced the decision to go members and decisions have been Sharman on [email protected] operational and financial arrange- This will release more GP time for This encourages people to move mental health issues. in the Downs Mail. It seems the "cashless", made no mention of an al- made at all times in accordance with or 07747 635257. ments; people with complex needs; to Maidstone and deliver services MBC claims the decision was council is now run by the officers, ternative cash payment service, but agreed delegations.” GP work is changing signifi- l Community healthcare: Along required by residents. made in April 2018, but none of not the elected members. encouraged taxpayers to set up a di- But we have learnt Maidstone Bor- the three leaders recall it being “This was sneaked out over rect debit or go online. ough Council’s contract with Pay- discussed, leading to the belief Christmas in the hope that no one A letter, dated December 2019, Point has not yet been finalised at that officers carried it out under would notice. This will hit the el- sent to cash-paying residents also the time this edition of Downs Mail Buildings to meet the guise of an overall change to derly or people who do not have had no reference to an alternative was going to press. In fact, earlier this digital services. a bank account. Two thousand means of payment. month the council was still at the When challenged by Downs people in one borough is a lot of A further letter to be circulated in testing stage with the new service, February will tell those affected of the according to PayPoint spokesman population growth Mail, MBC asserted, initially, that people, but I’d like to know how the decision was approved by officers came to that figure.” PayPoint option. Sam Holl. MAJOR new NHS building l Greensands health centre is committee, but only later admit- Cllr Perry said: “Try as I might, Downs Mail asked MBC where Pay- Conservative Cllr Jonathan Purle work proposed in the Maid- to have new premises close to said: “The PayPoint option wasn’t ted the decision was taken by un- I cannot recall being informed Point is mentioned in the 2018 digi- stone area is largely driven by Linton crossroads to replace tal strategy documents. The council mentioned in the digital strategy elected officers under “delegated about this by anyone.” population growth in the Local two Coxheath surgeries. refused to answer. We also asked documents and now we know why. It powers”. Independent Maidstone mem- Plan. This includes: l New staff building in when the alternative cash payment wasn’t there.” Cllr McKay said: “Why were ber Cllr Gordon Newton said: l A local care hub (with ser- Springwood Way, next to service was approved, for supporting Cllr MacKay added: "The strategy the members not consulted? It di- “There seem to be far too many vices yet to be finalised) which Maidstone Hospital, for key dated documentation and the name seems to be to scare people into tak- rectly affects the people we repre- officer-led decisions and we, the could be located off the top of healthcare workers. of the officer with final sign-off. The ing out direct debits, because that's sent, particularly the vulnerable. elected members, don't know Week Street as part of Maid- l Need for new or extended council has not responded. more convenient for the council, and anything about them until stone Station redevelopment GP practice serving urban Disgusting plan.” But on January 16, MBC director of then mop up those who don't with they've gone through. This au- area or at Kent Medical Cam- Maidstone has been Cllr Powell said: “I'm meant to finance Mark Green wrote to elected PayPoint at the end. It's a cynical thority is in danger of being offi- pus, which includes KIMS hos- recognised. be a group leader at the council, members explaining the advantages strategy." Cancer care on target yet the first I heard about it was cer-led.” pital. A key aim would be l Lenham Heath garden com- HOSPITAL staff say they are back therapy (SACT) training at Canter- services for patients with community is seen as an opportu- on target, hitting all eight NHS bury Christchurch University. plex needs. Mini care hubs for nity to plan infrastructure as timeframes to treat the region’s The new SACT nurses (from left) the Weald and Aylesford are part of a master plan, but no cancer patients. include Debbie Owens, Claire also being considered. decision has yet been taken on Boastful drunk urinated in patrol car Maidstone and Tunbridge Well’s Williams, Michelle Bell and Rudo l A plan is required for a healthcare building. NHS Trust has reached the na- Chaza. premises now College Road l Brewer Street Surgery, A DRUNKEN hod carrier “At around 6pm on November 15, “Mr King had several opportuni- weeks and I was very stressed out. tional targets now for the second They join another 30 qualified and Allington buildings are Bower Mount Centre, Vine launched a verbal tirade of abuse at an off-duty policeman received re- ties to calm down, but instead he I have a job interview after this consecutive month, placing it colleagues at Maidstone Hospi- “not suitable for longer term”. Medical Centre, Langley, Wal- officers before urinating in the back ports that Mr King was outside shouted: ‘I’m a big-time drug hearing, which I should get.” among the top 20% in the coun- tal’s Lord North Ward and Tun- l New site is required for lis Avenue Surgery, Bearsted seat of a police car. Carphone Warehouse in Maidstone dealer, how come you’re bothering Chairman of the bench, Gill try. bridge Wells Hospital’s Grove Green GP branch. Medical Practice, Albion Medi- Robert David King (29), of Stock- High Street waving a bottle around. me about this.’” Fryzer said: “Well, Mr King. This The trust’s previous poorer per- Haematology-Oncology day unit. l Sutton Valence Group GP cal Centre, Marden Medical ett Lane, Coxheath, told officers he “On arrival, Mr King shouted at Maidstone Magistrates Court has been a very expensive morning formance has been met with a raft As well as giving chemotherapy practice (South Lane and Centre, Headcorn Surgery, Sta- was a “big time drug dealer” and the officer ‘who called you? You heard he then told officers at the for you. I hope you can appreciate of changes that have improved treatment to patients, they are North Street) needs new plehurst Health Centre are all that he earns “more in a day than can f*** off’. Mr King then went to scene his jeans were worth £300 the seriousness of this offence, and waiting times. certified to discuss treatment with premises to respond to growth practices where work, includ- police do in a week”. Marks and Spencer’s and began and that he pays their wages. that police officers do not go to They include upskilling nine patients between cycles of in the area. ing refurbishment and recon- He then threatened to “roll swearing in front of young children Defending himself, King said: work to be shouted at.” nurses to administer chemother- chemotherapy. l Len Valley practice/Glebe figuration of existing around on the floor and bite the and customers. The swearing con- “I’m extremely embarrassed, and King pleaded guilty to one apy. Those involved underwent in- The cost of the training was met branch needs extra capacity. premises, will be considered. PC’s face and arm”. tinued into Church Street, right in I’m sorry. My employer has been charge of being drunk and disor- tense systemic anti-cancer by the trust. Kristy Harkett, prosecuting, said: front of people’s houses. withholding money from me for derly and was ordered to pay £525.

Maidstone February 2020 31 News downsmail.co.uk Visitor here for a free feed IF YOU have a feisty fighter at your bird table, it could be that you’ve spotted a very special new visitor choosing to over-winter in these parts. The blackcap is being seen in in- warbler the name “northern creasing numbers in mid-Kent, nightingale”. choosing to spend the cold months A winter feast Louise Menenes-Bautista, who in Britain where gardens have THE RSPB offers this explanation lives in Leeds, saw a flock of six well-stocked feeding stations. for the increase of black caps blackcaps over Christmas moving They have been spotted in Wa- coming to the UK: “We've known through an ivy bush in her back teringbury, West Malling, Leeds for a while that the blackcaps garden. and across the Weald. that come to Blighty for winter The mother of four said: “I was- But like the resident robin, the tend to have been hatched or n’t at all sure what they were at blackcap is fiercely territorial and breed in southern Germany. first, but because of the distinctive can scare off other birds, such as “And the reason? People in the marking on the head, they were finches and sparrows, which UK who are putting out plenty of easy to identify. might normally benefit from the bird food have made spending “They were such handsome lit- free food supply. the winter here a viable option tle birds – very distinctive.” The Royal Society for the Pro- for blackcaps.” Michael Beaman, of Sutton Va- tection of Birds (RSPB) says that lence, said: “As warblers, they are although the warbler is primarily insectivores, but as the supply of a summer visitor, which heads During the breeding season, The male has a distinctive black insects diminishes with the ap- south to warmer climes in the au- there may be as many as 120,000 marking on its head while the proach of winter, they seem more tumn, birds are migrating from in the UK although, says the drabber female has a brown cap. than happy to eat the sunflower Germany and north-east Europe RSPB, that number drops back to But what is unmistakable is its seeds we put out for the other in winter. 3,000 in winter. fluting song which has earned the small birds, such as finches.” Apprentice’s Police warn of repair scams royal award HOMEOWNERS are being victim’s roof needed repairs. following advice: warned of doorstep scammers of- The work was carried out in l If someone knocks at your from a Prince fering sub-standard building work November 2019, but the man was door, always refuse on the spot MAIDSTONE electricity appren- at unreasonably high prices. left with missing roof tiles and repairs or maintenance; tice Ben Veness swapped power Kent residents are urged to stay holes in his ceiling. l Don't allow anyone to pres- substations and cable trenches for vigilant and report any suspicions On Thursday, December 12, a sure you into agreeing to have St James’ Palace to receive his of rogue traders. 27-year-old woman was arrested work carried out. If you ask them Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. A Kent Police spokesman said: and interviewed by officers inves- to leave and they don't, call 999; The 22-year-old was congratu- “Recently, one elderly victim paid tigating the work and detectives l Don’t ever go to a bank or lated on his award by Prince Ed- out thousands of pounds for roof- continue to carry out enquiries. cash point with a trader; ward, HRH The ing work in Allington, which was Anyone with information about l Use reputable traders who are Earl of Wessex. not only found to be overpriced rogue traders in the area is urged members of the KCC Trading Ben, who but left incomplete.” to call Kent Police on 01622 604100 Standards approved trader works for a na- The victim handed over the quoting reference 46/220565/19. scheme, run in partnership with tional electric- money after receiving a flyer Detective Sergeant Marc Cana- Checkatrade; itythrough his door offering building nur said: “Sadly criminals will look l Ask for quotes in writing and maintenance and maintenance services. to exploit the more vulnerable check that the tradesperson is company, About 10 days later, he received members of our communities.” from the company they say they achieved the a visit from two men who said the Residents are reminded of the are from. award with activities including expeditions in Dartmoor and Ex- moor and a five day 50k hike through Snowdonia. River brings calm to custody suite Ben, who lives in Larkfield, KENT Police have recruited a new are experiencing difficulties, she pro- said: “Our first day on Snowdon Labrador to help vulnerable people vides a therapeutic benefit to those was in horrendous weather. in Maidstone police custody. in crisis and helps to counter some “We were soaked and you Five-year-old River’s “kind and of the negative behaviour we expe- couldn’t see the person in front of calm nature” meant she was perfect rience in custody. you. It was hard, but also fun.” candidate for a project Kent Police is “She has had a notable positive Ben joined the company ap- trialling at its Palace Avenue station. impact on those she has spent time prenticeship scheme in 2016 and Sergeant Ian Sutton said: “We are with and the atmosphere in custody earlier this year qualified as an often dealing with people in crisis improves when she is on shift.” electrical fitter. and although their behaviour has re- There are procedures in place to The award scheme’s Caroline sulted in arrest, they could suffer ensure River remains safe whilst Glen said: “Ben has shown strong with depression, anxiety or mental perience, whilst others may have dif- going about her duties, her handler commitment and energy in ex- illness. ficulty in communicating.” is always with her, she has access to ploring new skills, challenges “Young people may find them- “River has joined the team to offer fresh water and food and she is also and opportunities.” selves scared and daunted by the ex- emotional support to people who taken out for regular breaks.

32 Maidstone February 2020 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Visitor here for a free feed Shoplifter had a A night with Portillo Michael Portillo Hazlitt Theatre IF YOU have a feisty fighter at your bird table, it could be that you’ve spotted a very special new MICHAEL Portillo breezed onstage history of thefts at The Hazlitt Theatre without fan- visitor choosing to over-winter in these parts. fare or introduction, with a stripped The blackcap is being seen in in- warbler the name “northern A FORMER heroin addict with majority being for theft.” back set, no props or microphone. creasing numbers in mid-Kent, A winter feast nightingale”. more than 50 previous convictions Mr Takk said: “He was released His scripted intro gave him a cou- choosing to spend the cold months Louise Menenes-Bautista, who stole candles and electric razors in from prison on December 31, 2018 ple of opening gags in an audito- THE RSPB offers this explanation in Britain where gardens have lives in Leeds, saw a flock of six Maidstone. for breaching a suspended sen- rium where the lights did not go well-stocked feeding stations. for the increase of black caps blackcaps over Christmas moving Maidstone Magistrates Court tence order. down. Dressed in a peach coloured They have been spotted in Wa- coming to the UK: “We've known through an ivy bush in her back heard Michael Scott (48), of Mar- “He lost his home and partner. jacket, the sort of attire he has teringbury, West Malling, Leeds for a while that the blackcaps garden. sham Street, was released from He was in a very desperate situa- made famous on his railway TV and across the Weald. that come to Blighty for winter The mother of four said: “I was- prison in December 2018 only to tion. He has had a serious drug shows, he is a self-deprecating But like the resident robin, the tend to have been hatched or n’t at all sure what they were at discover his long-term partner had problem and whilst I appreciate he raconteur, stand-up gag teller and blackcap is fiercely territorial and breed in southern Germany. first, but because of the distinctive moved on with somebody else. is off them now; he could do with unalloyed wit. can scare off other birds, such as “And the reason? People in the marking on the head, they were His defence solicitor, Jag Takk, some support in that department.” The one-time Tory MP got many funnier, animated and natural when finches and sparrows, which UK who are putting out plenty of easy to identify. told the court Scott has recently Chairman of the bench, Adrian laughs, not least for the description speaking off the cuff. of his rise to prominence as an ad- might normally benefit from the bird food have made spending “They were such handsome lit- found new accommodation after Atmore said: “It seems you have a The second half, an audience viser to Margaret Thatcher to igno- free food supply. the winter here a viable option tle birds – very distinctive.” being homeless since leaving jail bad habit of blatantly going into Q&A, elicited some interesting opin- minious defeat to New Labour in ions. We learned he is Boris convert; The Royal Society for the Pro- for blackcaps.” Michael Beaman, of Sutton Va- and was off heroin for good. shops and helping yourself. I 1997, the famous “Portillo moment”, Trump’s on for a secord term; be- tection of Birds (RSPB) says that lence, said: “As warblers, they are Prosecuting, Nesisa Ndhlovu mean, 53 previous convictions is a and a berth in a file marked “former lieves the Sussexes have behaved although the warbler is primarily insectivores, but as the supply of said: “On November 28, 2019, Mr lot. You are no stranger to the court future Prime Ministers”. badly; the Royal family should be a summer visitor, which heads During the breeding season, The male has a distinctive black insects diminishes with the ap- Scott was caught on CCTV at Boots system. Mr Portillo has an interesting bi- slimmed; dreams Corbynite Rebecca south to warmer climes in the au- there may be as many as 120,000 marking on its head while the proach of winter, they seem more in King Street concealing two Yan- “You have experienced prison, ography. His academic father fled Long-Bailey will become the Labour tumn, birds are migrating from in the UK although, says the drabber female has a brown cap. than happy to eat the sunflower kee candles in his jacket. Security and we could have very easily sent the civil war in Spain to Brtain, where leader and Indian railway personnel Germany and north-east Europe RSPB, that number drops back to But what is unmistakable is its seeds we put out for the other recovered the goods before he left. you through that door. he met his future wife, an Oxford could teach British counterparts a in winter. 3,000 in winter. fluting song which has earned the small birds, such as finches.” “Just two days later, the defen- “You need to start doing what graduate, practising her Spanish thing or two about pride in the job. dant entered Matalan and walked you are told. I hope you realise with refugee children from the same By 9pm sharp, he was done. After out with two electric razors worth you’ve been given a chance here.” conflict. No war, no Michael Portillo. all, he had a train to catch from Apprentice’s £25 each. The alarms went off and Scott pleaded guilty to two Although his 90-minute set was Maidstone East. Police warn of repair scams the items were recovered. Mr Scott charges of theft and was given a rehearsed and nicely-paced , he is far Review by Simon Finlay royal award has 53 previous convictions, the six-month community order. HOMEOWNERS are being victim’s roof needed repairs. following advice: warned of doorstep scammers of- The work was carried out in l If someone knocks at your from a Prince fering sub-standard building work November 2019, but the man was door, always refuse on the spot The UK’s MAIDSTONE electricity appren- at unreasonably high prices. left with missing roof tiles and repairs or maintenance; tice Ben Veness swapped power Kent residents are urged to stay holes in his ceiling. l Don't allow anyone to pres- substations and cable trenches for vigilant and report any suspicions On Thursday, December 12, a sure you into agreeing to have St James’ Palace to receive his of rogue traders. 27-year-old woman was arrested work carried out. If you ask them Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. A Kent Police spokesman said: and interviewed by officers inves- to leave and they don't, call 999; The 22-year-old was congratu- “Recently, one elderly victim paid tigating the work and detectives l Don’t ever go to a bank or lated on his award by Prince Ed- out thousands of pounds for roof- continue to carry out enquiries. cash point with a trader; ward, HRH The ing work in Allington, which was Anyone with information about l Use reputable traders who are Earl of Wessex. not only found to be overpriced rogue traders in the area is urged members of the KCC Trading Ben, who but left incomplete.” to call Kent Police on 01622 604100 Standards approved trader proof fence! works for a na- The victim handed over the quoting reference 46/220565/19. scheme, run in partnership with tional electric- money after receiving a flyer Detective Sergeant Marc Cana- Checkatrade; itythrough his door offering building nur said: “Sadly criminals will look l Ask for quotes in writing and maintenance and maintenance services. to exploit the more vulnerable check that the tradesperson is company, About 10 days later, he received members of our communities.” from the company they say they achieved the a visit from two men who said the Residents are reminded of the are from. award with activities including expeditions in Dartmoor and Ex- moor and a five day 50k hike through Snowdonia. River brings calm to custody suite Ben, who lives in Larkfield, KENT Police have recruited a new are experiencing difficulties, she pro- said: “Our first day on Snowdon Labrador to help vulnerable people vides a therapeutic benefit to those was in horrendous weather. in Maidstone police custody. in crisis and helps to counter some “We were soaked and you Five-year-old River’s “kind and of the negative behaviour we expe- couldn’t see the person in front of calm nature” meant she was perfect rience in custody. you. It was hard, but also fun.” candidate for a project Kent Police is “She has had a notable positive Ben joined the company ap- trialling at its Palace Avenue station. impact on those she has spent time prenticeship scheme in 2016 and Sergeant Ian Sutton said: “We are with and the atmosphere in custody earlier this year qualified as an often dealing with people in crisis improves when she is on shift.” electrical fitter. FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTATION and although their behaviour has re- There are procedures in place to The award scheme’s Caroline The Ultimate in Garden Fencing sulted in arrest, they could suffer ensure River remains safe whilst PLEASE CONTACT US NOW 01622 233322 | [email protected] Glen said: “Ben has shown strong with depression, anxiety or mental perience, whilst others may have dif- going about her duties, her handler commitment and energy in ex- illness. ficulty in communicating.” is always with her, she has access to ploring new skills, challenges Maintenance Free “Young people may find them- “River has joined the team to offer fresh water and food and she is also and opportunities.” † www.colourfencemidkent.co.uk selves scared and daunted by the ex- emotional support to people who taken out for regular breaks. Guaranteed for 25 years *Terms & conditions apply please ask for details.

Maidstone February 2020 33 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Obituaries Alfie Weedon with great sadness that we share the news contribution to the region and was a Alfie Weedon with great sadness that we share the news contribution to the region and was a Obituaries that Mr Dallas, ex-student, ICT teacher, ex- member of Kent County Council from that Mr Dallas, ex-student, ICT teacher, ex- member of Kent County Council from ALFIE Weedon (16) lived in Northiam head of sixth form and current assistant 1965 to 1989. He was leader of the council ALFIE Weedon (16) lived in Northiam head of sixth form and current assistant 1965 to 1989. He was leader of the council from the age of three, but was known headteacher passed away yesterday. from 1982 to 1984 and High Sheriff of Kent from the age of three, but was known headteacher passed away yesterday. from 1982 to 1984 and High Sheriff of Kent locally as a devoted follower of Maidstone “Mr Dallas worked for the academy for from 2001 to 2002.” locally as a devoted follower of Maidstone “Mr Dallas worked for the academy for from 2001 to 2002.” United and to those over 20 years and transformed the Robert also supported causes such as the United and to those over 20 years and transformed the Robert also supported causes such as the who shared hospital teaching of ICT. His kindness and Battle of Britain Memorial Trust, for whom who shared hospital teaching of ICT. His kindness and Battle of Britain Memorial Trust, for whom time with him in willingness to help meant he was loved by he served as life vice-president. A tribute time with him in willingness to help meant he was loved by he served as life vice-president. A tribute Maidstone. students, staff and the wider community.” on the trust’s website noted: “He had real Maidstone. students, staff and the wider community.” on the trust’s website noted: “He had real Alfie, who died on Mark lived with his father, Nicky. His drive and energy and was very supportive Alfie, who died on Mark lived with his father, Nicky. His drive and energy and was very supportive December 2, was born sister, Nicola, praised his courage and of the trust and its mission to remember, December 2, was born sister, Nicola, praised his courage and of the trust and its mission to remember, with only half of his character. Many online tributes and raise awareness of, the sacrifices made with only half of his character. Many online tributes and raise awareness of, the sacrifices made heart developed, and concentrated on Mark’s gifts as a teacher. by The Few in 1940. He will be sadly heart developed, and concentrated on Mark’s gifts as a teacher. by The Few in 1940. He will be sadly required regular A comment from Jason Winter said: “He missed.” required regular A comment from Jason Winter said: “He missed.” hospital help from the turned my education around and got me Robert Neame leaves his wife Yvonne, hospital help from the turned my education around and got me Robert Neame leaves his wife Yvonne, specialist Brompton back on the right path.” Dawn Parker children Charlotte, Jonathan, Sarah and specialist Brompton back on the right path.” Dawn Parker children Charlotte, Jonathan, Sarah and Centre. added: “He will be so missed – an Moray, and nine grandchildren. Centre. added: “He will be so missed – an Moray, and nine grandchildren. He trained with Maidstone United amazing teacher and a true gentleman.” He trained with Maidstone United amazing teacher and a true gentleman.” Rangers’ squad, which offers football to Rangers’ squad, which offers football to those with a range of disabilities. The club Dave Cloud those with a range of disabilities. The club Dave Cloud paid tribute to Alfie at the Stones’ home Robert Neame paid tribute to Alfie at the Stones’ home Robert Neame game on December 10. TRIBUTES have been paid to a TRIBUTES have been paid to a THE death of Robert “Bobby” Neame motorcyclist who moved from London to game on December 10. A Justgiving page has been established A Justgiving page has been established THE death of Robert “Bobby” Neame motorcyclist who moved from London to by Alfie’s mother, Helen Barber, to raise CBE, a former leader of KCC, aged 85, has Kent and was known for his charity work. CBE, a former leader of KCC, aged 85, has Kent and was known for his charity work. been announced. Dave Cloud (62) was familiar amongst by Alfie’s mother, Helen Barber, to raise money for the Brompton Centre. She said: money for the Brompton Centre. She said: been announced. Dave Cloud (62) was familiar amongst “Alfie had been a fighter from the day he Robert had served local bikers for his distinctive purple trike. Robert had served local bikers for his distinctive purple trike. for decades on the Dave, who worked “Alfie had been a fighter from the day he was born. Alfie bravely bore the many was born. Alfie bravely bore the many for decades on the Dave, who worked operations and long spells in hospital, board of the as a greengrocer and board of the as a greengrocer and Faversham-based builder, was operations and long spells in hospital, with his devoted family by his side.” with his devoted family by his side.” Faversham-based builder, was The Brompton Centre paid tribute to brewing company, diagnosed with brewing company, diagnosed with Shepherd Neame. cancer at Christmas The Brompton Centre paid tribute to Alfie, who manned a raffle ticket stall for Alfie, who manned a raffle ticket stall for Shepherd Neame. cancer at Christmas them five days before his death. They said: He joined the 2018 and was He joined the 2018 and was company in 1956 and admired by friends them five days before his death. They said: “Alfie will be remembered for his cheeky, “Alfie will be remembered for his cheeky, company in 1956 and admired by friends funny personality, his big smile and his was appointed to the and family for his was appointed to the and family for his board in 1957. He brave fight. funny personality, his big smile and his love of football. On every hospital stay, he love of football. On every hospital stay, he board in 1957. He brave fight. looked out for other patients and loved was appointed His fellow was appointed His fellow executive chairman in members of the looked out for other patients and loved playing games with them and the staff. playing games with them and the staff. executive chairman in members of the “He was an incredibly special young 1971 and continued in the role until Ohana Motorcycle 1971 and continued in the role until Ohana Motorcycle October 2005. The following June, he Rally Club in Herne Bay were part of a “He was an incredibly special young man who will be missed immensely.” man who will be missed immensely.” October 2005. The following June, he Rally Club in Herne Bay were part of a retired from the board. large funeral, which included bikes. retired from the board. large funeral, which included bikes. He was the company’s first president, Dave has also been remembered for his He was the company’s first president, Dave has also been remembered for his Mark Dallas eventually retiring as chairman of the involvement in charity activities, including Mark Dallas eventually retiring as chairman of the involvement in charity activities, including trustees of the Shepherd Neame Company his club’s annual Easter egg and trustees of the Shepherd Neame Company his club’s annual Easter egg and MARK Dallas (37) was assistant Retirement Account in 2018. Christmas pyjama runs to local hospitals. MARK Dallas (37) was assistant Retirement Account in 2018. Christmas pyjama runs to local hospitals. headteacher at Greenacre Academy in An obituary in the Daily Telegraph Paying tribute on social media, Chloe headteacher at Greenacre Academy in An obituary in the Daily Telegraph Paying tribute on social media, Chloe Walderslade. noted that Robert’s chairmanship occurred Stow said: “Good man, heart of gold, Walderslade. noted that Robert’s chairmanship occurred Stow said: “Good man, heart of gold, He worked in the during “a period of radical change in the always had time for everyone.” He worked in the during “a period of radical change in the always had time for everyone.” school in which he beer industry and pub trade” and he Dave leaves two children and six school in which he beer industry and pub trade” and he Dave leaves two children and six had been a pupil and “achieved steady growth in his family grandchildren, aged from two to 17. had been a pupil and “achieved steady growth in his family grandchildren, aged from two to 17. lived all his life in business against a background of evolving lived all his life in business against a background of evolving Princes Park, leisure and drinking habits as well as new Princes Park, leisure and drinking habits as well as new Chatham. legislation affecting ownership of pubs”. Daphne Bates Chatham. legislation affecting ownership of pubs”. Daphne Bates Shelly Bridger, Robert Neame earned an honorary Shelly Bridger, DAPHNE Bates (86), of Marion Crescent, Robert Neame earned an honorary DAPHNE Bates (86), of Marion Crescent, head of the academy, doctorate in civil law from the University head of the academy, Maidstone, was a well-known figure in doctorate in civil law from the University Maidstone, was a well-known figure in posted an online of Kent in 2010. The university website posted an online local music. of Kent in 2010. The university website local music. tribute stating: “It is noted: “Robert Neame has made a key tribute stating: “It is She served as a church organist and as noted: “Robert Neame has made a key She served as a church organist and as secretary to the musical director of Kent secretary to the musical director of Kent Music School and was the longest serving Music School and was the longest serving member of Maidstone Choral Union. member of Maidstone Choral Union. Her involvement with the Choral Union Her involvement with the Choral Union was so dedicated that she hadn’t missed a was so dedicated that she hadn’t missed a concert in 63 years. concert in 63 years. Born in Gillingham, Daphne lived Born in Gillingham, Daphne lived locally for over 60 years. locally for over 60 years. Her husband, Don, was the founder of Wills | Probate | Powers of attorney | Funeral plans Her husband, Don, was the founder of the Retained Firefighters Union and the Retained Firefighters Union and Daphne served as the organisation’s • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed Daphne served as the organisation’s secretary for 25 years. DipPFS MSWW secretary for 25 years. Before moving to Marion Crescent the Before moving to Marion Crescent the couple lived in Plains Avenue. couple lived in Plains Avenue. Daphne leaves her husband and sons 01622 720985 www.camrasswills.co.uk Daphne leaves her husband and sons Graham and Ian. Graham and Ian.

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

34 Maidstone February 2020 Call for the

BDL Gas Services A family Run Business Set in Stone Email: [email protected] New memorials in granite, marble and Twitter: @BDLGas stone. Renovations, cleaning and • Gas and Electric res • Central heating systems additional inscriptions. • Stone, Marble, Granite and installed Wood Fireplaces • Boiler Breakdowns • Fully Bespoke Installation • Service and Repair Gas Find us at: service appliances 24 High Street, • Free surveys • Landlord Certi cates Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 4PD Tel; 01795 410800 66 High Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1SR Tel; 01622 679888

Showroom: 9 High Street Rainham Kent ME8 7HX 01634 232048 [email protected] www.BDLGasServices.co.uk

THE FIREPLACE We can transform YOUR lawn! A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS • Wood and Multi Fuel Stoves • Stove Package Deals • Marble, Wood and Stone Fire Surrounds • Bespoke Service Available • Gas and Electric Fires • Chimney Lining • Full Installation Service Turﬁng & Lawn Care

• Turﬁng CALL TODAY FOR YOUR • Lawn renovations FREE ESTIMATE • Regular mowing 01622 535747 • Scarifying & aerating 07894 107876 • Weed treatments Gas Safe and HETAS registered engineers. • Moss control Visit Our Showroom Tel: 01795 599234 • Lawn nutrition 2 Castle Court, Castle Road, Opening Times: • Over-seeding Eurolink Industrial Estate, Monday-Friday 9.30-4; Sittingbourne, • Top-dressing Kent ME10 3TD Saturday 10-4 www.gblawns.co.uk

Maidstone February 2020 35 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk

the time of the meeting, despite the clerk this. Cllr Susan Hogg asked for a jumbo Parish Councils

Barming the time of the meeting, despite the clerk this. Cllr Susan Hogg asked for a jumbo Parish Councils chasing up the others. It was agreed to Barming bag of salt to be placed at the bottom of chasing up the others. It was agreed to bag of salt to be placed at the bottom of Burger van Members understood that accept the lower of the two quotes. Cllr Wharf Road by the river. This was thought Burger van Members understood that accept the lower of the two quotes. Cllr Wharf Road by the river. This was thought people were pleased to see a burger van Gooch would investigate any available not to be an option, but after the meeting, people were pleased to see a burger van Gooch would investigate any available not to be an option, but after the meeting, back in Barnjet layby, but were concerned grants and Cllr Parker would investigate the clerk was able to secure a jumbo bag of back in Barnjet layby, but were concerned grants and Cllr Parker would investigate the clerk was able to secure a jumbo bag of that no notification had been received other funding opportunities. that no notification had been received grit to be put by the river for use on the other funding opportunities. grit to be put by the river for use on the from the licensing officer. The clerk would Boot camp Cllr Manser had received a from the licensing officer. The clerk would bridge. A permanent bin would be Boot camp Cllr Manser had received a bridge. A permanent bin would be investigate. request from a boot camp club to use the investigate. installed there by August 2020. request from a boot camp club to use the installed there by August 2020. Remembrance service This had gone very parish field three evenings per week. A Remembrance service This had gone very Noticeboards Someone had been found to parish field three evenings per week. A Noticeboards Someone had been found to well, although someone had fallen over in three-month trial was agreed. well, although someone had fallen over in Church Lane, which the marshals were take on the work of updating the three-month trial was agreed. take on the work of updating the noticeboards on an ad hoc basis. Church Lane, which the marshals were unaware of – it was suggested walkie Loose unaware of – it was suggested walkie noticeboards on an ad hoc basis. talkies are used in future to improve Allington site MP Helen Grant had Loose Allington site MP Helen Grant had Community warden The warden reported publicly objected to the site. She was talkies are used in future to improve communication. The bottles that were communication. The bottles that were Community warden The warden reported publicly objected to the site. She was heard being smashed during the service that it was a busy time for welfare visits, invited to the full council meeting but was that it was a busy time for welfare visits, invited to the full council meeting but was but urged anyone who needed assistance, heard being smashed during the service were nothing to do with the pub. Cllr unable to attend. A petition had been but urged anyone who needed assistance, unable to attend. A petition had been or knew someone who needed assistance, were nothing to do with the pub. Cllr Gooch would put a note in the Barming circulated to Tovil residents. or knew someone who needed assistance, circulated to Tovil residents. to call her. Anyone interested in booking a Gooch would put a note in the Barming News asking people to be respectful Break-in The parish office had been to call her. Anyone interested in booking a Break-in The parish office had been talk on the role of the community warden News asking people to be respectful during the service. The PCSO would be broken into at the end of October, but no talk on the role of the community warden broken into at the end of October, but no should also contact her. It was agreed to during the service. The PCSO would be asked what action could be taken against equipment or files appeared to have been asked what action could be taken against should also contact her. It was agreed to equipment or files appeared to have been drivers who did not adhere to Road book her to speak at the next coffee taken. book her to speak at the next coffee morning. drivers who did not adhere to Road taken. Closed notices. Call for Sites The clerk reported that Tovil Closed notices. morning. Call for Sites The clerk reported that Tovil Footpath A resident had asked the parish Development Cllr Andrew said an email sites in the confidential document had Development Cllr Andrew said an email had been received from Persimmon Footpath A resident had asked the parish sites in the confidential document had council to take ownership of the footpath been leaked to the Downs Mail. The council to take ownership of the footpath had been received from Persimmon been leaked to the Downs Mail. The Homes about a proposed development in Homes about a proposed development in between Wesley Close and Banky chairman reinforced the importance of not between Wesley Close and Banky chairman reinforced the importance of not Boughton Lane. The landowner wished to Boughton Lane. The landowner wished to meadow. It was felt that ongoing breaching confidentiality. meadow. It was felt that ongoing breaching confidentiality. make a donation to the refurbishment of make a donation to the refurbishment of maintenance could prove too much Neighbourhood plan The steering group maintenance could prove too much Neighbourhood plan The steering group the pavilion. It was agreed to discuss this the pavilion. It was agreed to discuss this responsibility for the parish council. Cllr had agreed to send out questionnaires to responsibility for the parish council. Cllr had agreed to send out questionnaires to Gooch suggested that it could be matter at the next parish council meeting. matter at the next parish council meeting. every Tovil household. Gooch suggested that it could be every Tovil household. registered as a public right of way. Cllr Call for sites Cllr Andew had had an Call for sites Cllr Andew had had an informal meeting with the North Loose IT contract After a discussion it was registered as a public right of way. Cllr IT contract After a discussion it was Parker would investigate this option. As Parker would investigate this option. As informal meeting with the North Loose Residents’ Association who would be agreed to put the contract out to tender. agreed to put the contract out to tender. this could be a long process, the clerk this could be a long process, the clerk Residents’ Association who would be putting in a response to the Call for Sites. Conduct The chairman spoke to members Conduct The chairman spoke to members would get a quotation for laying aggregate would get a quotation for laying aggregate putting in a response to the Call for Sites. It was agreed that the planning committee regarding conduct in meetings. All regarding conduct in meetings. All to tackle the mud issue. to tackle the mud issue. It was agreed that the planning committee would discuss a response. members were asked to read the Good members were asked to read the Good Pavilion It was agreed to accept the Pavilion It was agreed to accept the would discuss a response. SMART The public consultation on the Councillors’ Guide and to take note of the Councillors’ Guide and to take note of the quotation from Kent Flooring for the quotation from Kent Flooring for the SMART The public consultation on the A229 had been delayed by the election and section stating that a councillor should section stating that a councillor should toilets and the kitchen area. The clerk toilets and the kitchen area. The clerk A229 had been delayed by the election and was due to take place in January. The abstain rarely. He hoped the council abstain rarely. He hoped the council would contact the company. would contact the company. was due to take place in January. The Wheatsheaf would be demolished in would move forward in a positive manner. would move forward in a positive manner. Tree maintenance It was agreed to accept Tree maintenance It was agreed to accept Wheatsheaf would be demolished in January or February. There was concern Burglaries Cllr Abigail Hogg wanted to the quotation from Mr Doe to trim the oak the quotation from Mr Doe to trim the oak January or February. There was concern Burglaries Cllr Abigail Hogg wanted to that the A229 could not cope with any remind residents that there had been an at the foot of Cedar Drive. The clerk at the foot of Cedar Drive. The clerk that the A229 could not cope with any remind residents that there had been an more traffic. increase in burglaries and vandalism, and would instruct Mr Doe to proceed with would instruct Mr Doe to proceed with more traffic. increase in burglaries and vandalism, and Website The draft website was presented. the work as soon as possible. she had been a victim of vandalism the work as soon as possible. Website The draft website was presented. she had been a victim of vandalism It was agreed to continue work on the Budget 2020/21 The clerk had previously herself. Budget 2020/21 The clerk had previously It was agreed to continue work on the herself. circulated the draft budget, which was website and for councillors to have a look Newsletter Cllr Abigail Hogg asked that circulated the draft budget, which was website and for councillors to have a look Newsletter Cllr Abigail Hogg asked that discussed. It was agreed to accept the at it on the link provided and forward any all members write a piece for the discussed. It was agreed to accept the at it on the link provided and forward any all members write a piece for the budget, which includes the precept feedback. newsletter. budget, which includes the precept feedback. newsletter. amount of £28,920, and the clerk was Railway sleeper Cllr Wooding asked the amount of £28,920, and the clerk was Railway sleeper Cllr Wooding asked the thanked for her hard work. clerk for the progress on getting a quote thanked for her hard work. clerk for the progress on getting a quote Play area The clerk had contacted four Tovil for the repair of the sleeper, and asked if Play area The clerk had contacted four Tovil for the repair of the sleeper, and asked if companies for quotes for the ground Salt bins These were yet to be filled at the the price of adding metal banding could companies for quotes for the ground Salt bins These were yet to be filled at the the price of adding metal banding could surface work, but only two had replied by time of the meeting. The clerk would chase be added to the quote. surface work, but only two had replied by time of the meeting. The clerk would chase be added to the quote. Crime reports THERE was an attempt to break into the se- THERE was an attempt to break into the se- Crime reports curity box of a house in Newbury Avenue, curity box of a house in Newbury Avenue, Allington. Neighbourhood Watch Allington. Neighbourhood Watch A pet cat was found decapitated in Devon Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A pet cat was found decapitated in Devon Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Road, Shepway. Road, Shepway. A group of people stole the wing mirror A group of people stole the wing mirror from a Mercedes Sprinter van in Barker Road, The headlight washer was also tampered Somebody broke into the shed and office at from a Mercedes Sprinter van in Barker Road, The headlight washer was also tampered Somebody broke into the shed and office at Barming. with. a cemetery in Sutton Road, Shepway. They Barming. with. a cemetery in Sutton Road, Shepway. They A skip was removed without consent in A dog was stolen from the garden of a do not appear to have taken anything. A skip was removed without consent in A dog was stolen from the garden of a do not appear to have taken anything. Westmorland Green, Shepway. The skip home in Huntingdon Walk, Shepway. Tobacco and £220 cash was stolen from a Westmorland Green, Shepway. The skip home in Huntingdon Walk, Shepway. Tobacco and £220 cash was stolen from a company confirmed they had not taken it. A blue badge was stolen from an unlocked house in in Knightrider Street. company confirmed they had not taken it. A blue badge was stolen from an unlocked house in in Knightrider Street. The external Christmas lights were cut at a car in Boxley Road. Somebody broke into a vehicle in The external Christmas lights were cut at a car in Boxley Road. Somebody broke into a vehicle in house in Wolfe Road, Fant. A shed was broken into at a house in Brunswick Street and stole several items. house in Wolfe Road, Fant. A shed was broken into at a house in Brunswick Street and stole several items. A wing mirror was knocked off a vehicle in Tufton Street. A vehicle was stolen from a car park in A wing mirror was knocked off a vehicle in Tufton Street. A vehicle was stolen from a car park in Hampshire Drive, Shepway. Graffiti was sprayed on the back doors of a Lower Stone Street. It contained a bank card Hampshire Drive, Shepway. Graffiti was sprayed on the back doors of a Lower Stone Street. It contained a bank card A vehicle in Upper Fant Road, Fant, was Ford Transit in Durham Close, Shepway. which has subsequently be used fraudu- A vehicle in Upper Fant Road, Fant, was Ford Transit in Durham Close, Shepway. which has subsequently be used fraudu- broken into. Somebody broke into a business property lently. broken into. Somebody broke into a business property lently. Tools were stolen from a container on a and stole bottles of alcohol and money in A wheelie bin was stolen from outside a Tools were stolen from a container on a and stole bottles of alcohol and money in A wheelie bin was stolen from outside a building site in Union Street. Medway Street. property in Melville Road. building site in Union Street. Medway Street. property in Melville Road. A front number plate was stolen from a ve- Thieves tried to break into a business prop- Somebody painted graffiti on a door and A front number plate was stolen from a ve- Thieves tried to break into a business prop- Somebody painted graffiti on a door and hicle at a squash club in Willow Way, Shep- erty causing damage to a fence in put glue in the lock in James Whatman Way. hicle at a squash club in Willow Way, Shep- erty causing damage to a fence in put glue in the lock in James Whatman Way. way. Knightrider Street. They were interrupted Youths were seen throwing stones at the way. Knightrider Street. They were interrupted Youths were seen throwing stones at the A BMW 320D was keyed in Coral Park. when an alarm went off. leisure centre in Willow Way, Shepway. A BMW 320D was keyed in Coral Park. when an alarm went off. leisure centre in Willow Way, Shepway.

36 Maidstone February 2020 CALL THE EXPERTS

Quality Garden Buildings in the Heart of Kent COMPUTERS COMPUTERSNO FIX NO FEE, NO CALL OUT FEE! NO FIX NO FEE, NO CALL OUT FEE! • Computer• Data repairsbackup & upgrades& recovery • Laptop • Great repairs deals & screen on new replacements pc’s • Data backup & recovery • Great deals on new pc’s • Over 20 years experience Sheds, Site Huts, • Over 20 years experience • Computer repairs & upgrades Workshops, Garages, Call Ben on 01622 297262 or 07772 843544 • LaptopCOMPUTERS repairs & screen replacements Mini Tool Stores, Potting NO FIX NO FEE, NO CALL OUT FEE! Sheds, Play houses, www.bl-it-solutions.co.uk And all other types of • ComputerCall repairs Ben & upgrades on • Laptop01622 repairs &297262 screen replacements garden building. • Data backup & recovery • Great deals on new pc’s • Over 20 years experience Call Ben on or01622 07772 297262 843544 or 07772 843544 01622 880031 www.shedsandshelters.co.uk Hollingbourne Hill, Hollingbourne, Maidstone Kent [email protected] www.bl-it-solutions.co.ukwww.bl-it-solutions.co.uk

£62 £31 £76 £38 £76 £38

£104 £52 £166 £83

£94 £47 Sales £62 £31 Services& HOODS TREE SERVICES LTD P.BROWN BUILDING & ROOFINGTREE SURGERY SPECIALISTS Services include: Extensions, renovations, roofing, loft conversionsTree Reductions & alterations and Felling Stump Grinding Call Paul on Hedge Cutting and Removal E: [email protected] Logs 01634 865213 W: pbrownbuildingroofing.co.ukNPTC Qualified and fully insured Free quotes and advice providedAll work carries an 07748185920 2 Warren Road, Bluebell Hill Chatham, Kent ME5 9RD Insurance Backed Guarantee [email protected] - www.hoodstrees.co.uk 01622 744149 - 07590 461382

Freephone 0800 6942024 Alpha Property Maintenance SHAUN ELLEN HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East BRICKWORK SPECIALIST & GENERAL BUILDER CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING OFFER • Bathroom & kitchen installations • EXTENSIONS • PORCHES • GARDEN WALLS • PATIOS • RE-POINTING Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate • CHIMNEY REPAIRS • CONSERVATORY BASES • STONE WALLS Single Room (12’ x 12’) £52 £26 • Painting & decorating Through Room (12’ x 18’) £66 £33 • Plastering • Plumbing • CONCRETING • DRAINAGE • BLOCK PAVING • ROOFING Hall, Stairs & Landing £66 £33 •RESTORATION WORK • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Upholstery Free Quotations 3 piece suite £94 £47 KentCITY business & GUILDS OVER owner? 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Leather 3 piece suite £156 £78 50% Call Bob on We can handle allFREE your ESTIMATES Trade Waste & ADVICE needs Curtains Discount PHONE SHAUN: 01622 679618 • MOB: 07889 903590 Full length £84 £42 01622 762164 07941 703193 0344 8807700FOR A RELIABLE & FRIENDLY SERVICE Half Length £52 £26 No hidden extras - All prices inclusive of VAT

Maidstone February 2020 37 @ Spindlebush Farm, 01233 840624 TOM HOPE offers the following services: [email protected] Most types of fencing undertaken MARSHALLS Yalding Hill, ME18 6AL Fields rolled, harrowed and fertilised (ATV spread if wet) Flail mowing (untidy field to a lawn) T Seasoned logs suitable for The largest G Blocked drain clearance Having (whole or part job) bale wrapping, baling, round, quadrant and conventional. Brand New Straight Stairlifts Next day Horse manure loaded and taken away. independently G CCTV drain & sewer surveys open fires & wood stoves installation 13 tonne 360 with experience operator, full range of bucket’s concrete breaker ownedReconditioned liquid G Drain Stairlifts & sewer cleaning Circular saw for overgrown hedges – other services available (anything considered). waste REQUIRED: Fields for haying and grazing. T Bulk bags from £55 Tel No: 01622 756128G Cesspool Mobile: & septic 07905tank services 182363 management G Tankering including ADR (hazchem) FOR SALE: T Loose loads: £100 delivered www.stairliftstoday.co.uk Oak offcut’s ideal woodburner (large loads). Half tonne apple bin’s – used once. company in G Pollution & flooding solutions All type and shapes of forage. Clean brick and block hardcore, also plannings. or £125 [email protected] UK G Waste disposal & recycling Large quantity of farmyard manure any size load, collected or delivered. All above subject to availability. 49 West Park Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7AF 01622 812005 07970 647334 Call us today to request your FREE,www.mtscleansing.co.uk no obligation, home survey. Telephone/Fax: 01233 756673 Mobile: 07890 818783

MD Building & Services Marchant Garden Services •DrivewaysSpecialists •Tar in & Grit Brand New Adrian Marchant •Tarmacadam• Extensions • Plastering • (AllFootpaths aspects) Straight Stairlifts • Refurbishments • Electrics • Modernisations Reconditioned - Tree Surgeon •Block• Kitchen Paving & Bathroom• InstallationsCar Parks • Driveways, Patios & Repointing • Fencing & Blockpaving Stairlifts N.P.T.C. Qualified • Fully Insured Council Approved Drop Kerbs Free Estimates FULLY INSURED Tel No: 01622 756128 Next • Hedgecutting & Fencing WE BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTES Mobile: 07905 182363 day Tel:01622 Mark 07841 741183 409061 www.stairliftstoday.co.uk installation Offham Nr West Malling [email protected] 01622email: [email protected] 862035 / 07771 523799 49 West Park Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7AF 07932 492897 01732 841041 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukwww.rssurfacing.com Call us today to request your FREE, no obligation, home survey. Access Computer Denied AZING RE Problems??? LE GL PAIR oofing ervices OUB BEARSTED MAN A1R S D Any IT related issues, do not hesitate to contact Double Glazing Repairs Misted Sealed Units Door Handles Broken Glass • TILED ROOFINGDean: • FLAT ROOFING & Locksmith Services Door Locks Window Handles Letter Boxes • LEAD FLASHINGMob: 07722• PVC 293187 FASCIA / SOFFITS • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock Broken Hinges New Doors New Windows Email:• info@warfordFULL REPAIRcomputers.co.uk SERVICE • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units Facebook: Warford Computers • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Letterboxes • Patio doors, runners & rollers FREE ESTIMATES £25 per hour OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Tel: 01622 296011 NO Fix NOFor Feea prompt reliable service 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 07808 849432 or 01622 738683 Mob: 07884 180595No Email:Call out [email protected] Charge Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ Maidstone Weald October 2017 35 B M Travel (Kent) Ian Terry Private Hire Airports-London-Seaports-Days Out-Events Plastering Services Ditton based, our locally established drivers are friendly, helpful and courteous. 31 Roseacre Lane, Bearsted ME14 4JE Competitive rates (airports from £40). 24 hour service. 07855 529283 For enquiries contact Bob Matthews on: 07904 492819 or Get properly plastered Est 1980 [email protected]

Mid Kent Living 63 Classiﬁeds downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk

Contact our sales team…

Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery Rebecca Abbott Telesales Manager Classiﬁed Sales Executive Classiﬁed Sales Executive E: natasha@ E: teresa@ E: rebecca.abbott downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk @downsmail.co.uk T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 01622 630ext. 224 330 Reachext. 227 up to 80,000 householdsext. every 234 month

Appliance Repairs Chimney MaintenanceCarpenters continued

ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCE Find your local REPAIR SERVICE trades people Wood Works A.H.B.S with fully qualified engineer Carpentry All makes of washing machines, Businesses & Services FULL CARPENTRY fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, SERVICE FROM All aspects of CARPENTRY t/dryers, dishwashers, elec ovens. on the Downs Mail DECKING TO DOORS, Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and All work guaranteed directory fitted, Loft Conversions, Doors hung, Free estimates and call out KITCHENS & FLOORS. Locks fitted, Skirting, small alterations, 01622 673113 downsmail.co.uk ALL JOBS BIG & SMALL. Plastering and Tiling Anytime: 07831 557677 All work guaranteed. MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD IN AND AROUND THE HOME FREE ESTIMATES The complete BathroomBathrooms Family business established 21 years Maintenance Company CALL Cliff on 01622 743648 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 TheNO complete CALL OUT & FREE Bathroom QUOTES 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone SupplyMaintenance • Install • Company Repair Chimney Maintenance FloorNO CALL & Wall OUT TilingFEE & FREE • Full QUOTES Plumbing Services Call Gary 07738 902116 • 01622 736266 H & G Chimney Services Supply • InstallALL WORK• Repair GUARANTEED Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Carpenters Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] 01622 736266 ALL WORK GUARANTEED Driveway Services

Builders Clean Sweep •BrushDrivew &a yvacuums •Tar & Grit •Tarmacadam MD Building & Services •Footpaths •Block Paving•Car Parks PAUL BEST Specialists in CouncilWood App burnersroved D randop K erbsflues Free Estimates • Extensions • Refurbishments Quotesupplied the and fitted Brickwork • Plastering (All aspects) Downsmail • Electrics • Modernisations 01622 741183 O Extensions • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations All work insured O • Driveways, Patios & Repointing 01622 862035 / 07771 523799 General Builder • Fencing & Blockpaving O 25 years Experience All workww certifiedw.rssurfacing.com to cover insurance Chimney MaintenanceFULLY INSURED Pest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 e: [email protected] Camera inspections available 07748 630747 Advertisewww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk in our Kent & Sussex Drives online business wwWeddingsw.kentandsussexdrives.com attended Building Plansdirectory for as MemberSpecialists inof Block the Paving, ICS Hot tar chippings little as £4 per HETASResin bonded approved surfaces Pea Shingle Red or black tarmac Landscaping & Fencing month + Vat ContactFree Estimates. Kevin All new work Bovis guaranteed for 10 years.

01622 630330 Tel:01622 01622 809105 844385 | 01580 891668 | Mobile: 07789 360748

38 Maidstone February 2020 07885 651578 [email protected]

38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Classiﬁed downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Handyman Services Classified Painting & Decorating Driveway Services Garden Services continued Handyman HANDYMAN 44Decorator LADY INTERIOR L D. STEWART DECORATOR W No job too small No job too big or too small. Landway Surfacing Ltd. G G S Competitive prices Painting & decorating, All decorating NO JOB TOO SMALL •Painting & Decorating • Plastering all roofing works & repairs, interior & exterior G FREE ESTIMATES G ‘’ RESIN’’ BOUND & BONDED DRIVEWAYS, • Tiling • Fencing chimney’s, guttering & gutter • Laminate Flooring • Plumbing Call Lynda Daniel & PATIOS. cleaning, pressure cleaning, FREE ESTIMATES Tarmac, Shingle & Block Paving General Household Maintenance. on 07733 354617 Any odd jobs considered fencing & brickwork & driveways Bearsted 730541 Council Approved Vehicle Crossovers. Phone Lee for quotes 07554 267087 Mobile: 07795 471196 / 07799 867524 07894 138224 01622 204491 Oﬃce: 01622 734817 Day Evenings or to leave a message Fully insured 01622 807860 LEE Hughes Email: [email protected] PAINTING & DECORATING Website: www.landwaysurfacing.co.uk SERVICES • Quality Decorating at a fair & competitive price 100 The Landway Bearsted Maidstone ME14 4LB MIKE LEWIS Locksmith Interior & Exterior Work PROPERTYHandyman MAINTENANCE Services Locksmith Undertaken • Dulux approved over • HOME & GARDEN 30 years experience OVER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE Electricians IMPROVEMENTS & RENOVATIONS • Fully insured • INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING City & Guild Qualified & DECORATING Tel: 01622 759040 Tel: 01622 737225 Electric Rewired.co.uk • WALLPAPER HANGING Maidstone & Kent Mobile: 07816 149502 Replacing Lights: Ceiling; Down; Bathroom • GARDEN MAINTENANCE T: 01622 755750 M: 07738 658751 www.sr-interiors.com Periodic Property Testing & Electrical Inspection • DECKING & PERGOLAS 3 Plains Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7AT Garage & Shed Wiring for Lights & Power •FREE QUOTATIONS www.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk email: [email protected] Landlord Property Testing with Certificate Remove Old Fuse Boards • SMALL JOBS UNDERTAKEN 24 hour service locks opened MALCOLM ROBERTS & Fit New Consumer Units MIKE LEWIS new locks fitted security checks Over 25 years’ experience of TEL: 01622 663192 maintaining people’s homes. We accept all major 01622 738680 MOB: 07810 486146 emergency work undertaken Ray Cox Credit or Debit Cards 07831 247843 A friendly, reliable service. Logs Painting & decorating, Painting & For a Free Quote Call Alf Logs Wall Papering, Tiling Decorating Garden Services Fencing and all aspects of DIY. Interior & Exterior CALL MALCOLM Private or commercial CHRISTMAS£100 load - £125 load. Bulk Bags £45 Dave Servicing ON 01634 308067 30+ years experience • Fully Insured Mob: 07788 142576 • FREE No Obligation Quote SHARPENING GARDEN TOOLS FOR A FREE QUOTATION Lawn Mowers SPECIAL Contact Ray Shears, Hedge Cutters Business Directory Spades, Secateurs Advertise from as little as 07733072389/01622 205625 Landscaping, Hedge-cutting, SEASONED DRY LOGS Pruning and Weeding £3.00 per month Seasoned Hardwood Logs Painting & Decorating 07759 514946 RING JOSH Call 01622 630330 or visit Professional Services Logman Energyour website for more details Interior Decorator 07939 935149 www.downsmail.co.uk • Interior & exterior painting Not just a decorator, • Wall papering • Plastering Free kindling with but one with over • Fully insured every double load 40 years experience • Friendly & reliable service [email protected] For all makes of now semi retired, Call Nick for a Waghornwww.logmanenerg y.Logsco.uk Wood burning free quotation Stoves and so can offer a cheaper price BulkMob bags 0773468 £39.99 0671 Open Fires 07921 193298 01622 687200 01622 206702 [email protected] Seasoned mixedPainting hard wood& Decorating £70 a load Seasoned wood for •Plastering • Brickwork • wood burners £60 a load •Painting & Decorating • • Decking/Patios •Laminate Flooring • Water Features • Fencing Free Delivery • Free Stacking • Driveways • Treework •Home Improvements Experienced • Reliable • Fully Insured Mobile: 07854 615687 Office: 01622 813750 Tel: 01622 527106 Mob:07788 532926 Email: [email protected] FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE 07804 927680 Maidstone February 2020 39

LOGMANLOGMAN ENERGYENERGY Rathbone Decorating Services

suppliers of seasoned, dry hardwood logs Painting & Decorating No job too small ...cut...cut toto orderorder forfor woodburningwoodburning stovesstoves andand openopen firesfires Interior & Exterior with special rates Works Undertaken for pensioners Now is the time to stock up with the • Free Estimates • Friendly Personal Services best cut to order Kentish seasoned • Domestic and Commercial • Qualified Tradesman hardwood logs at discount prices. Tel 01622 721491 or Mobile: 07753 487796 Call ROBBIE on 07802 625125 www.logmanenergy.co.uk We accept payment by

40 Maidstone East January 2017 Classified downsmail.co.uk

Painting & Decorating continued Property maintenance

• Garden Maintenance • General Maintenance • Fencing/Brickwall & Repairs • Painting: Interior & Exterior • Hedge Trimming • (houses/sheds/fences and • Tree Work much more) • Gutter Cleaning & Repairs Fully Insured. • Fascia & Soffits, UPVC Cleaning Free Quotation & Advice All Enquiries welcome: 07950540406 Email: [email protected] Pest Control Roofing Services Allington Roofing EST 1979 Roof Repairs Guering Roof Cleaning Felt Flat Roofing Moss Removal Fascias & soffits Free Estimates 01622 861564 07889255813 info@allingtonroofing.co.uk www.allingtonroofing.co.uk

• Full Roof Installation • Tiling & Slate Roofing Plumbing & Heating • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • Chimney Re pointing or Removal • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance

www.apolloroofing.co.uk 07808 414965 or 01622 853601 Call for a free no obligation quote No call Plumbing maintenance out charge New bathroom suites Free no Central heating systems obligation Water leak repairs ICHARDS OOFING & Quotation R R Call Luke on BUILDING SERVICES LTD 07934 832345 Lead Work and Tiling Specialists New tiled roofs, repairs & replacements • All plumbing work undertaken Slate and lead roofs & repairs • Complete bathrooms PVCu guttering, fascias & soffits • Power flushing of heating systems Power Cladding & bargeboards BLAIZE SERVICES LTD • Full central heating systemsflushing of PLUMBING I HEATING I BATHROOMS Repointing & chimney repairs and upgrades heating systems Brickwork and carpentry For an immediate • Free estimates response Call James Plastering and decoration • All work carried out 07581 154499 by qualified tradesman Loft, cellar & garage conversions [email protected] 616517 Design support & advice Qualified plumbers, electricians & heating engineers

Tel: (01622) 734377 Direct: 07885 241666 www.richardsroofing.co.uk email: [email protected]

40 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Skip Hire Waste Services

01233 660 099 www.gboxkent.com SKIP HIRE Commercial & Domestic Recycling Services

Book Online Order your skip via secure Skip Hire 24hr online book facility Roll On/Offs 4 Yard Skip £192 inc Vat Road Permits Arranged 6 Yard Skip £228 inc Vat Waste Recycling Facility 8 Yard Skip £264 inc Vat 01233 840624 12 Yard Skip £360 inc Vat [email protected] Many more services available. See website for details

The largest independently owned liquid waste management company in the UK

www.mtscleansing.co.uk

• Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & ﬂooding solutions • Waste disposal & recycling

Web Services

TV, Aerials + Satellites Leisure PAUL MILL Television Ltd 01622 751000 Est. 1981 • See the Latest Panasonic OLED, LED, Smart & 4K TVs in Stock • On WANTED Demand, BBC IPlayer,ITV HUB & 4oD • Satellite dish Installation, WIFI, Fault Finding. • Freeview & Freesat, Aerial Expert installation • Bespoke MODEL RAILWAYS TV Wall mounting installation service • CCTV Installation Specialist Any age or condition Please phone us for free friendly advice today. Richard 07780 681405 www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk Private collector Bower Place Maidstone ME16 8BG Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-12pm [email protected] We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service

Maidstone February 2020 41 Health & Beauty Recruitment BRICKLAYERS WANTED De-stress the healthy way, with a massage! Great for those aches & pains too Gangs and price or day work Work across All areas of Kent Swedish massage • Deep tissue massage Flexible rates depending on Pregnancy massage • Indian head massage area plus best price rates in Maidstone town centre Facebook.com/JSBtherapies Call: 07969 128969 www.JSBtherapies.co.uk - Tel 07443 424 605 We’re Hiring! Part-Time Drivers

Branches in Maidstone & Reading Mechanic Wanted for a small independent garage in Maidstone For more information contact Bob on: Contact Graeme Ackhurst on 01622 684467 Or [email protected] 01622 751258 www.wemoveitltd.com

Time on your hands? Don’t know what to do? Why not join the Maidstone Hospital League of Friends

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. The League of Friends is a registered charity and all monies raised ensures that it can respond to requests for equipment in the hospital.

If you can spare a few hours a week and would like to join a friendly team doing something rewarding for the community please contact: Jacqui on 01622 224781

42 Maidstone February 2020 Senior Journalist/Deputy Editor required

Mail Publications, publishers of the Downs Mail, Maidstone and Malling's number one newspaper and its quarterly sister publication, Mid Kent Living, is looking for an experienced, all-round senior journalist.

The role entails all aspects of newspaper work, so a sound knowledge of reporting, news gathering, news editing, sub-editing and proof-reading is needed. The successful candidate will also drive content to our expanding daily news website and contribute features into our popular magazine, Mid Kent Living, and have the necessary skills to help manage a small dedicated team and deputise for the Editor.

Some evening and weekend working will be required. Local If you would like a new challenge, we'd love knowledge is an advantage but not essential. A sense for strong to hear from you. campaigning, community journalism is a must. To apply contact the Editor, Simon Finlay with your CV Ideally, the successful candidate will have a full NCTJ qualification and a covering letter or equivalent and a minimum of five years’ experience in a news outlining why you would be our ideal candidate. media environment. Simon.fi[email protected] Tel: 01622 630330 Your ideal job? On the Road

MOBILE BODY REPAIRS • BUMPER SCUFFS • KEY SCRATCHES • ALLOY REFURB I,000’s of great jobs. • VANDOLISM DAMAGE TO PAINTWORK • DENTS • MACHINE POLISHING Sign up for free • FULLY GUARANTEED TO MAIN DEALER STANDARD • FULLY INSURED Local and nationwide. job alerts. FREE ESTIMATES Find it here at www.downsmail.co.uk/jobs Public Notices Goods Vehicle Operator's Licence Mark Toms trading as R&M Toms Transport To advertise any vacancies or public Of 51 Rectory Lane South, Leybourne, West notices please call Before Before Malling, Kent ME19 5HA Is applying to change an existing licence as follows: to keep an extra 4 goods vehicles and 0 trailers at DX, Unit 1, Parkwood Industrial Estate. Bircholt Road, Maidstone, Kent ME15 9YF. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land After After will be affected ,should make written representation to the traffic commissioner at Proud • 6 day operation Hillcrest House, 386 Hairhills Lane, Leeds, LS9 sponsors of 6NF. stating their reasons, within 21 days of this Bearsted • Around 1/4 of body shop price notice, representors must at the same time send Cricket Club • Reliable, professional and flexible a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A 01622 630330 guide to making representations is available find more job vacancies on our website Call: 07771 621 769 [email protected] www.touchupsltd.co.uk from the traffic commissioners office. www.downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone February 2020 43 On the Road

Granville Road, Maidstone MOT Testing General Vehicle Repairs In House Qualiﬁed Audi/Seat/VW Technician 01622 761571 www.granvillegarage.com

Mechanical Repairs & Maintenance

01622 686824 www.gmskent.co.uk [email protected]

- Accessories Fitting - MOT & Servicing - Repairs & Maintenance - Tuning - Electrical Diagnostic - Air Con

Specialising in VW, Audi, Seat & Skoda

Mechanical Repairs & Maintenance Unit 1 & 2 Gibraltar Lane, Maidstone

44 Maidstone February 2020 On the Road

• MOT • Servicing • Repairs • Cambelts • Clutches • Springs and Shocks • Diagnostics • Air Conditioning Tyres • Exhausts • Tracking

FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY SERVICE WITHIN 10 MILE RADIUS

Tel: 01622 663662 Unit 5, Bridge Industrial Estate, Wharf Road, Tovil, Maidstone ME15 6RR

More People Pass First Time With A Class Driving School

Your Journey to freedom starts here with A-Class South East's Leading Driving Car, Bike, & HGV Instructors Driving School WEWE NEEDNEED YOU!YOU! Telephone: 033 577 5004 South East's Leading Car, Email: [email protected]

Bike, & HGV Driving School Web: www.a-classdrivingschool.co.uk

£95 £180 (Car offers only. Terms & conditions apply)

Maidstone February 2020 45 downsmail.co.uk Comment Get going, Boris – but listen to us  MOST people in Maidstone and Kent stewards, and a local farmer provided a will be relieved by Boris Johnson’s lorry as the platform. It was powerful landslide General Election victory and MailMarks and peaceful. with it a certainty of Brexit. But there is DENNIS FOWLE President I suspect there will be some resistance one big proviso. [email protected] within the council. I hope not – but if so, Quite rightly, he intends to prioritise it is time for the majority of elected investment in many sad-looking councillors to demand: “Just do it.” Northern towns. But the Government Towns across the South East are building cannot continue to ignore rapidly- up a real head of steam. A bitter pill growing discontent in the South, with the They need powerful support from all  HUNDREDS of patients across impact of a massive house-building their MPs, most of them Conservatives Maidstone are being told by the NHS programme now leading to serious local with strong influence on Government. they can no longer collect medications rebellions. They know what is going on and how from their surgery pharmacy and must The two policies are linked. If more strongly their electors feel. switch to a pharmacy nearer their home. people desire to live in the North and For many, this seems nonsense, with find a�ractive employment, pressure Offer Mote Park the convenience for patients (many of should be reduced on London and South  GROUPS protesting against all this them elderly) totally ignored. East. Maidstone housing are looking for a The surgeries are generally rural and Maidstone has become an awful suitable location to stage a mass rally – these patients (many long-standing) live example of a major town being destroyed and for various good reasons it is not outside the surgery’s “controlled by unbelievable housing targets, now easy. locality”. very seriously impacting on quality of Now Maidstone Council is on the side Patients will still be prescribed life in so many ways for residents. It must of protestors, surely it can offer them the medications by their GP and order them not go on. expanse of Mote Park, an ideal central as necessary from that surgery. Maidstone is commi�ed (mostly with location with good parking. They will then need to travel to that great reluctance under Government There is a precedent. I was chair of surgery and pick up the medication decree) to a programme of 28,000 new MASH (Maidstone Action for Services in authority (often from the pharmacy they homes up to the early 2030s and we are Hospital) and Maidstone Council are banned from using) to travel to appalled by what is happening, with supported our big ba�le when the NHS another pharmacy for collection. only about 25% built. planned to move many services to a new Many of these small GP pharmacies are The message has been too slow ge�ing hospital in Tunbridge Wells. reliable, fast and efficient. through to elected Maidstone councillors, Surgeons, GPs, MPs and councillors Sadly this cannot be said of all larger but it has now. They have just voted to addressed a huge crowd on a cold community pharmacies, and the Downs take our protests to Westminster. Saturday morning. The council covered Mail too frequently hears complaints. Maidstone does not stand alone. the insurance. We found lots of willing This is a bi�er pill for many patients.

No homes without roads proposing to ease this nightmare as well without a ring road. as providing additional capacity for the  Ever tried parking on an estate? Not MAIDSTONE is the first county town new housing it is already building? With enough room. One car per household is visited by European travellers. Yet, why two-plus cars per household adding to not realistic. Design estates to fit the would anyone want to come here? the already packed roads and parking on social need and not the developers’ They will try to plan routes around the the streets and in town choked, how are building density. town or to pass through early enough or they going to improve the situation? Chris Smith, via email late enough to avoid the traffic jams.  I read in Downs Mail that the Leeds I have lived here all my life and seen bypass is not deemed cost effective and Council not divided the housing spread and the traffic may not go ahead. The reason given is it AS ONE of the councillors who volume get worse. will not benefit the community. The consistently opposed the Broadway I know how much pressure a Leeds to Langley bypass is needed not developer will apply to put in the just to assist Leeds, but as part of the shopping centre development scheme cheapest infrastructure they can get away solution to Maidstone's problem of from the very start, I must comment on with, often employing specialists to assist congestion. Maidstone will be a no-go, the le�ers in your paper regarding this with saving money by bending and high pollution area until a suitable ma�er. cheating regulation. capacity ring road is built, that will allow Whilst it may be fair to criticise a I have seen the ridiculous planning cars to move from A to B without having flawed internal consultation process applications granted for housing on flood to go into the centre of Maidstone for which saw this proposal come forward, plains and on any square inch of their 30-minute wait. despite the voiced scepticism of all town available land. Now the local authority is  New towns like Milton Keynes have centre councillors, and I have done so. It focused on building houses at all cost to ring roads and their town works and is a was not by any stretch of imagination a satisfy the housing shortage. nice place to get about. Maidstone “Liberal Democrat” proposal, or one A few observations: council and the planners work in silos from any other party. It originated with  Where is all the employment for the and therefore nothing is seen to be senior council officers. new housing in the Maidstone area? If it wrong by the council, but the people At the very first opportunity, is out of area, why are we building in the who live here do see what is wrong. It councillors had to discuss it properly, it wrong place, meaning people need to may be too late to put in the ring road, so was quite rightly rejected as commute and pollute? stop the additional housing. This way we unacceptable, by all councillors across  With the existing town roads grid- will still have to put up with not being the political parties. I confidently predict locked at busy times, which is at least able to get across the town in 30 minutes that this is what will happen with many twice a day, and more with Op Stack and like we do now, but it will be be�er than other proposed sites that are currently roadworks etc how is the council 60 or 90 minutes, if the housing continues being put forward, which are equally

46 Maidstone February 2020 downsmail.co.uk unacceptable. It is unfortunate that Tree was shameful Scheme (BPS). Comment people are suggesting that there is, in While our industry is pushing for fact, some deep political divide within WE ALL have hobby horses and I have tariff-free trade with the EU, which is the council and that one party or another several, not least how the heart of Kent's what Government say they want, they is not listening, when in fact the views of historic county town was celebrated at also want a looser regulatory councillors across party are fairly similar Christmas by an aluminium pole. relationship with the EU to allow – horror that Government has imposed a Having spent £3 million of council tax divergence and that is where the huge increase in housing numbers on the payers' money (most of it probably challenge for 2020 will be. borough and a concern to minimise the borrowed) on some tacky white and blue Legally speaking, it is likely we will damage. paving, it seems it was unable to afford a leave the EU later this month, but Cllr Clive English, Maidstone Borough decent/real Christmas tree. economically, the risk of there being no Council Disgraceful. Free Trade Agreement remains a threat, This is made even more disgusting but also a bargaining chip for the UK Stop building now and shameful when compared to the government. lovely tree erected in the li�le precinct The Secretary of State highlighted the REFERENCE your recent coverage of on Grove Green. over-developed Bearsted, Maidstone and Government’s commitments to Peter Downs, Downswood maintaining the highest standards of its surrounding areas. Firstly, thank you for raising this issue. food safety, animal welfare and The non-stop development of what was environmental protection in any future our beautiful area is being destroyed at The future for farming trade deals. an alarming rate and everyone you talk AFTER a year of frustration and The maintenance of standards and not to about it feels the same – extremely stagnation with agricultural policy, 2020 undercutting UK food producers will be angry and anxious. is going to be a very busy year, crucial for our sector and remain a key Even the ancient, pre�y water meadow following the decisive election result. focus of the CLA’s lobbying work with in Bearsted village with its streams and The Agriculture Bill has been on hold Government. trees, and which is known to frequently for the last year, as Parliament was Mark Bridgeman, President, Country flood, is being ripped up for housing gridlocked in Brexit disagreement. The Land & Business Association (CLA) despite huge local opposition. And Environment Bill received its first equally inappropriate housing has been reading and was then pulled once the built behind Barty House, again despite election was called. These two key Right result for Britain huge opposition. pieces of legislation will now come back IT WAS with a sigh of relief that I Who buys these expensive houses and to Parliament. greeted the general election result, what do they expect? Despite developers As well as preparing for Brexit, there although I had said to my friends that I calling them “village” they are definitely will also be a focus on climate change. thought it would be a landslide. NOT villages but housing estates/towns. The UK will be hosting COP26, the My grandchildren and great- Where did these people live before? major global climate summit, in grandchildren won’t become citizens of How do they get the massive mortgages Glasgow in mid-November. the EU. needed to buy these monstrosities? Who Having been the first major economy Its aim is to be one nation with its own is benefi�ing financially? Well the to make “net zero” a legal obligation, anthem, army, currency, flag and answer to the last question is of course there will be a lot of pressure on the UK unelected president. the already-wealthy developers, land- government to show they are starting to Ken Dodd said that the oldest and owners (eg farmers, and “others”), but act. funniest joke was that the people in one definitely NOT the local residents. And The Secretary of State for Defra, village thought the people in the next those who do flourish financially Theresa Villiers, has been keen to point one were all stupid. The result shows definitely don't live/remain in the same out that the Conservative manifesto has how true that is. area. committed to maintaining funding into Those of us who live in these islands Yes people need somewhere to live, the agricultural sector for the duration do not expect to have us or our leaders and no, it's not a case of NIMBY, but this of this Parliament, the much talked ever treated with such disdain ever dreadful, greedy building frenzy in our about £3.2bn that currently comes into again or have our laws thrust on us by lovely county has to stop NOW. Before the UK from the CAP. unelected commissioners who don't we completely run out of land. This is very important as we start the appear to be of the highest class. Gillian Barry, via email transition away from the Basic Payment Alan Wallace, via email

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

Maidstone February 2020 47 OSurT cOomNpEr eFhLenOsOiveR rIaNnGge S oPf EwCalIlA aLndIS ToSor tiles are especially sourced to offer excellent value. Our comprehensive range of wall and ﬂ oor tiles Narteu eraspl eSctiaolnlye s,o Eunrcceadu tsot oicffse,r P eoxcreclelelnati nva lue. anNdatural Mos Satico nrea,n Egnecasu osntic dsi, sPpolracy.elain and Mosaic ranges on display. Expert advice and installation Exsperevricte a advvaiilcaeb lae.nd installation sOeruvri cceo mavparielahbelne.sive range of wall and oor tiles are especially sourced to offer excellent value. Natural Stone, Encaustics, Porcelain and tMheosstaoince rtialenwgaerse hoonu dseisplay. Exp esrtot naedtviliecwea arend installation serv@icset oanveatiillaewblae.rehouse

2 +

THE STONE TILE WAREHOUSE VisViti sOitu rO Nuerw N Sehwow Srohoomw -r oAocomrn - Y Aarcdorn, Yard, SuSuttontton Roa Rd,o Laadn,g Lleayn, Mglaeidys,t Monaei,dstone,Kent, Kent, ME17 3ND thestonetilewarehouse ME17 3ND 01622 679157 01622 679157 stonetileware www.thestonetilewarehouse.co.uk @stonetilewarehouse www.thestonetilewarehouse.co.uk Visit Our New Showroom - Acorn Yard, Sutton Road, Langley, Maidstone, Downs Mail is published by Mail Publications Ltd (President — Dennis Fowle, Chairman — Claire Procter, Editor — Simon Finlay, Sales Manager — Bill Brett) 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT 01622 630330 www.downsmail.co.uk email: [email protected] Printed by Mortons.