Countryside Fears Over 262 Building Land Plots

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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling June 2016 No. 230

News Countryside fears over Koi in lake mystery A LAKE near West Malling seems to have acquired a new, foreign resident in the form of a 262 building land plots large koi carp. 6 THERE are fears for the future of areas of countryside in Malling after the Fancy Goat future? borough council published a list of sites which could be suitable for housing. STAFF at troubled West Malling eaterie The Fancy Goat As part of its “local plan” process, Parish Council chairman David recognise Bradbourne House is a want to take it over. 8 Tonbridge and Malling council has Thornewell (left) said: “People are Grade I building but does not men- assessed more than 200 areas which concerned that they tion 30 acres around it are were suggested for housebuilding could be a lead-up to covenanted to the National Trust.” Fines for ﬂytippers and other uses by developers and an enormous loss of Many smaller sites have been in- TWO men who dumped rubbish landowners. countryside, ruining cluded in the green and amber lists illegally have been given Council planners graded the 262 the setting of West including Larkfield library and land hefty fines. 12 sites green, amber or red according Malling.Promises at Woodlands Children’s Centre. to their suitability for development, that Kings Hill Cllr Thornewell added: “Some of but stressed that not all the sites would be confined to these are what I regard as brown Mayor Mark’s chain would go into the final plan. the old airfield area would be set field sites within the built area and I MARK Rhodes has been installed The green areas include two sites aside and East Malling would be lost think more explanation is needed for as the new mayor of near East Malling – a large swathe of in urban sprawl.” these officer decisions.” Tonbridge and Malling. 15 farmland and orchards at Broadwa- He said that, according to the in- Trudy Dean, chairman of West ter Farm, stretching to Kings Hill terim sites assessment, 4,772 homes Malling Parish Council said it was and West Malling, and a site around could be built at Broadwater, while pressing for the whole area to be in- West Malling fury Bradbourne House at East Malling at East Malling Research, there could cluded in the Green Belt. BUSINESSES have complained Research. East Malling and Larkfield be 5,483 units. “The wording does Housing special, pages 4&5 that new parking charges have hit trade. 17

Joe’s dash for cash Downs Mail readers favour Brexit JOE Westgate has drafted in a Larkfield trainer to get AN OVERWHELMING majority of Downs Mail fit for a charity bike ride. readers are in favour of leaving the European Union, 25 a survey conducted by this newspaper has revealed. More than 70 per cent of respondents said they Crime Reports 26 want to leave the EU while a quarter want to remain. Hundreds of local residents have posted their A WALLET and cards were taken votes online or sent in a coupon from this newspaper from a vehicle in Snodland. ahead of the EU referendum on June 23. As it stands, 72% of those voted to leave the EU, Comment 30-31 while 25% expressed a desire to stay. The remaining 3% are unsure. Obituaries 32 A current poll of polls published by NatCen So- poll were undecided. cial Research suggests that 51% want to stay in the Observers predict a low turnout will point to a win Parish Councils 40-41 EU while 49% wish to go. This does not take into ac- for Brexit while a higher showing on the day might count the “don’t knows” who are believed to be a indicate the remain campaign will triumph. FORMER chairman of the parish crucial component in determining the result. Downs Mail will be running its survey until June council in Offham, Mike Rowe, But an Opinium survey puts 43% in favour of leav- 23 when we will publish our results online. has been awarded a major coming, 3% ahead of the “remain” camp and 17% in that Turn to page 30 for voting details munity award for his work. Town Talk Vicar appointed SNODLAND Football Club AYLESFORD will have a new vicar capped a successful season by starting in August. The appoint- winning silverware and promo- ment of Rev Jonathan Hall has just tion. For details see Town Talk YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT been announced and marks the end in this month’s Downs Mail. [email protected] of a six-month recruitment process. The bi-monthly independent 01622 690290 He is currently a hospital magazine is dedicated to Snod- 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent chaplain in Tunbridge Wells. 3 land and Halling residents. Kent’s Most Awarded Optician Book Now 01732 617557 www.optometrists.co.uk Quality CarpetsDQGFlooring DW8QEHDWDEOH3ULFHV

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2 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Working dogs A TALK on the work of medical de- Aylesford’s new vicar tection dogs will be given by Sharon Lynn to Aylesford Active Retirement Association at its meeting on Thursday, June 30. starts work in August The group usually meets on the fourth Thursday of every month at THE search for a new vicar in 2pm in the Community Centre, Aylesford is now complete with Aylesford, but this meeting has the appointment of the Rev been put back a week because of Jonathan Hall. the hall being used as a polling sta- He and his wife Erica have two tion for the EU referendum. grown-up sons, Christopher and Anyone over the age of 50 is wel- Richard, and a pet Labrador called come to attend. For more details, Barley. contact Wayne on 01622 710734. The news was announced during services at St Peter and St Paul’s Church by the churchwardens Aloe vera talk Brenda Sladden and Robert Halli- KINGS Hill WI meets on Wednes- day. day, June 22, for a talk on aloe vera Writing in the parish magazine, by Nikki Clarke. they said: “This is extremely good Meetings are on the fourth news with the whole process only Wednesday of each month at Kings taking six months. This could not Hill Community Centre at 7.30pm. have been achieved without a lot of Visitors are always welcome. hard work and time spent by mem- For more details contact Tina Pat- bers of the parochial church coun- terson on 01732 844721. cil.” Rev Jonathan Hall with his wife Erica Rev Hall was ordained in 1999, having switched to the ministry chaplain at Burrswood Christian ing that, he co-ordinated voluntary Craft and song after working as a personnel officer Hospital, Groombridge, near Tun- work at a large hospital in Caterham AYLESFORD Village Community for Croydon Health Authority and bridge Wells. After leaving college for the mentally handicapped. Centre is holding an indoor market South Somerset District Council. with a degree in geography and re- He will be instituted in the church and craft fair on June 26 from 10am He spent four years as a curate at ligious studies in 1983, he had be- on Tuesday, August 9 and replaces to 2pm to raise money to refurbish Holy Trinity Church, Weymouth, come a warden of an Abbeyfield the Rev Chris van Straaten, who the kitchen. followed by seven years as rector of care home, doing all the cooking, moved with his wife Kathy to a new Singing group Vocademy will be two parishes on the Isle of Wight, shopping and generally looking parish near Hull in east Yorkshire performing at the fair with their before moving to become senior after the elderly residents. Follow- after eight years at Aylesford. principal Dani Baker.

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Malling June 2016 3 News | Housing downsmail.co.uk Colour-coded housing plots DETAILS of hundreds of sites that could be used for housebuilding “People will be have been published by Ton- bridge and Malling Council as it rightly concerned seeks to identify suitable areas for development to include in its local that this could be a plan. The list, which marks an early lead-up to an stage in the process, is the outcome enormous loss of of the call for sites last September when developers and landowners local countryside” were invited to suggest locations for David housing, employment and other uses. Thornewell, Each of the 262 sites has been eval- that sites would be included in the The council has an assessed need chairman, East uated by the borough council’s plan- local plan. of 13,400 homes to be built in the Malling and ning officers, following government He said: “Sites having potential at plan period of 2011 to 2031, but the Larkﬁeld Parish guidelines. The council has placed this stage will be subject to public borough has enjoyed a healthy hous- Council plots into one of three categories, consultation and will be considered ing supply with planning permis- shown as either red, green or amber. in more detail later in the process, sions granted or in the pipeline or Red denotes that the site is techni- when planning merit can be ap- sites already in the previous local sues and Options, takes place in Sep- cally unsuitable, while amber indi- plied.” plan. These leave the council having tember, and there could be some re- cates that it is potentially suitable but The green and amber listings in- to plan for 6,723 units. finement before then. undeliverable, perhaps because of clude the number of new homes that Council leader Cllr Nicolas Heslop Cllr Rogers said: “Issues and Op- land ownership or infrastructure is- each site could theoretically provide. (below) said it was probable that tions will look at how we meet fu- sues. Green suggests a site accords However, the council said it was im- fewer than half the ture needs and help us to identify well with national policies and is de- portant to recognise that this was a listed sites would be sites that are likely to come forward liverable. broad figure only and the actual needed. Having so in the Local Plan, along with those If all the green and amber sites yield was likely to be lower. many would provide that will not. This will be an impor- were eventually approved they Sites graded green or amber, the opportunity to tant opportunity for local residents could yield 20,000 homes. However, range from East Malling Research pick the best. and communities to comment.” Cllr Howard Rogers, cabinet mem- with an assessed 5,400 new homes to The proposed sites Information on the call for sites, in- ber for strategic planning, stressed a small plot of land off Cobdown in the interim assess- cluding a colour-co-ordinated map, that the “interim sites assessment” Close, Ditton, with an estimated ment will continue to be tested until is on the council’s website at was not an indication or guarantee nine units. major public consultation, called Is- www.tmbc.gov.uk/callforsites.

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4 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk Housing | News

Your independent Postal Shop serving local customers and business • Are you looking for somewhere to post your letters or buy stamps? • Have a number of items that need to be packed Eight homes have been proposed on land at Larkfield library, a green site up and shipped around the world? TONBRIDGE and Malling Borough Council has given • Do you need a company to take care of your three grades to sites – green, amber and red. Proposed online orders? red areas are deemed technically unsuitable and there- • Want a post box rental with a fore unlikely to come to fruition. So, here we have listed private mailing address? the green and amber sites, along with the assessed • Have a mail fulfilment job you number of potential housing units for each... would like to outsource? Green– suitable and deliverable Now stocking Cartridge World printer cartridges Aylesford: Whitepost Field 1,025; West of Coldharbour Lane 293; West of Whitepost Wood Lane 68; Bushey Wood 4,451; Rear of Robin Hood Lane, Blue Bell Hill 24; North of Pratling Street employment; Land south of Hermitage Lane employment; West of Hermitage Lane 69; Bull Lane, Eccles 9; Aylesford Quarry 1,877/employment/other use; Bunyards Farm, Allington 575; North of M20 J5, Coldharbour Lane employment; East of Aylesford Priory 21; Barming Depot, Hermitage Lane 128; North of RBLI 0845 498 9622 Warehouse employment. [email protected] Ditton: Land off Cobdown Close 9; East Malling Research Station (part) www.postandpackinguk.com 5,483/employment/other. 5 Liberty Square, Kings Hill, West Malling, ME19 4AU East Malling and Larkfield: Westbrook Farm 137; Hermitage Farm, Win- terfield Lane 125; Paris Farm, Rocks Road 127; East Malling Research Sta- tion (part) 5483/employment/other; North of Kings Hill (part) 4,772/other; Larkfield library and adjacent land 8; Winterfield House, Win- terfield Lane 6. Mid Kent Flooring East Peckham: South of Church Lane 17; Branbridges Wharf employment. COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC FLOOR COVERINGS Kings Hill: North of Kings Hill (part) 4,772/other. MID KENT SHOPPING CENTRE ALLINGTON, KENT ME16 0PU Leybourne: Land at Birling Road employment. Mereworth: Bells Wood Yard, Kings Hill 106. Carpets Vinyls Laminate Solid Wood Offham: Barfield House, Teston Road 22. Wateringbury: West of The Orpines 36; Ketridge Lane, Kings Hill (part) Artificial Grass Amtico Wet rooms West Malling:Triangle site, Lucks Hill other; North of Norman Road Uplift old Move furniture Amtico 63/other; East of Offham Road 81; West of Fatherwell Avenue 235; North of Offham Road 232; West of West Malling 413; North of Kings Hill (part) 4,772; Banky Meadow 92; Appledene Farm, Norman Road 20/employment/other; Sportsman’s Farm Teston Road 205/other.

Amber – suitable but undeliverable Aylesford: Land off Oakapple Lane (part) 119; Detling Field, Hermitage Lane 381; Mackenders Lane, Eccles 81/other; East of Hermitage Lane 465; Former Aylesford Newsprint (part) employment; Dog Kennel Wood 132. Ditton: Land off Oakapple Lane, Barming (part)119; North of London Road 13; Station Road 6; Sheldon Way, Larkfield (part) 157; Former Ayles- ford Newsprint (part) employment; 10 Bradbourne Lane 5; Land at 6 and 8 Downderry Way 11. East Malling and Larkfield: Land at Woodlands Children’s Centre 22; Sheldon Way, Larkfield 157; The Old Coal Yard, New Hythe Lane employment; 10 Bradbourne Lane (part) 157; 736 London Road 8. East Peckham: Land at Snoll Hatch 131; Church Lane 38. Kings Hill: Water Lane, Kings Hill 109. ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED Snodland: Paddlesworth Road Green 23; Mill Fields Farm 191. Trottiscliffe: Green Lane 37. FREE ESTIMATES Wateringbury: Land off Fields Lane 138; Pelican Court 37. West Malling: Rear of London Road and Town Hill 152/other; Rear of Lon- don Road 109; Brickfields 136. 01622 761230 www.midkentflooring.com

Malling June 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Twice limit A MOTORIST from Leybourne has been banned from driving for Was mystery koi carp nearly two years after being stopped by police in Maidstone. Malcolm Robinson (56), was sen- tenced on May 3 at Mid Kent Mag- dumped in the lake? istrates’ Court after he pleaded guilty to the offence. FISHY tales come in all types, warned abandoning non-native Robinson, of Redbank, gave a shapes and sizes, but recent sight- fish in UK waters is not only illegal, breath test of 71mg of alcohol in ings of a creature swimming in a 100ml of breath when he was but threatens the future of home- stopped in Ware Street. The legal lake near west Malling is causing grown species by exposing eco-sys- limit is 35. He was banned from ripples. tems to imported diseases. driving for 20 months and ordered According to local dog-owners He said: “People say that fish to pay a £415 fine, £85 costs and a and walkers, the normally empty only grow to the size of their con- £42 victim surcharge. lake at Manor Park Country Park fines, but this is a myth which be- now has at least one colourful resi- comes apparent to those with koi dent...and maybe more. carp, that will grow to more than a Star Wars role Some believe the 30cm mystery metre in length and weigh in at 60 A SNODLAND painter and deco- fish may be an abandoned koi carp, The lake at Manor Park to 80lbs. rator has been seeing stars. while others suggest it could be a said: “Sadly, people do put koi carp “Even our native carp can get up Rubbing shoulders with Oscar- golden tench. into local rivers and streams when to 60lbs. We suggest people think winning actors is nothing new to The person who saw it said: “I they get too big. clearly about what size of fish will 60-year-old Keith Bowyer from have looked for fish in the lake “Unfortunately, they eat every- be appropriate when they are Gassons Road, Snodland, who many times without success. I was, thing, including the native fish. I thinking about building a pond.” spent five days as an extra on the therefore, surprised to see what was amazed that It seems the mystery fish is not set of Star Wars XIII at Pinewood looks like a Koi carp and I assume we took out so the only tale from the water’s edge Studios. someone has dumped it there.” many large carp in West Malling - with another vis- He said: “It was a great experi- A dozen carp – all well over 30cm when we had to itor including a large terrapin, ence and it pays better than paint- long – were recently fished out of ‘de-fish’ Clare which is said to sit on the old log on ing and decorating.” nearby Clare Lake in East Malling Lake. Now, the na- the opposite side of the path. as part of a £30,000, four-year proj- tive trout and oth- Ex-bra bank ect to upgrade the stretch of water, ers get a chance.” If you have seen the ﬁsh and prompting fears that lakes in the can tell us what it is, email UNLOVED and unwanted bras can Andy Cripps, area have become a dumping [email protected] with be dropped in to a “pink bra bank” who lives near the ground for unwanted fish. the details, along with your at Kings Hill Dry Cleaners in Lib- park in West Malling and manages West Malling Parish Council other wildlife tales of the unex- erty Square to raise funds for can- the aquatic centre at Brookside Gar- chairman Trudy Dean (pictured) pected from the area. cer research. den Centre in East Peckham,

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Malling June 2016 7 News downsmail.co.uk Concert dates THE Maidstone Singers are giving Staﬀ planning takeover two summer concerts, embracing major sacred works by two of Britain’s leading composers. The first is at All Saints’ Church, at troubled restaurant Maidstone, at 7.30pm on Sunday, June 19, and the second at St Mary’s STAFF at the troubled Fancy Goat been very supportive.” Church, West Malling, on Saturday, in West Malling have revealed The restaurant was being run by June 25. The choir will first sing Bob plans to take over the restaurant managing directors Greig Alexan- Chilcotts’ Requiem, while the sec- which has been placed in the der Hills (40), of High Street, West ond will be a rendition of Karl Jenk- hands of insolvency specialists. Malling, and Steven John Sydney ins’ Stabat Mater. It follows a very public protest Wiseman (40), of the same address. Tickets cost £12 (under 18s free) outside the restaurant by an un- They were appointed as directors from tickets@themaidstonesingers. happy supplier that led to its direc- in February 2016. org.uk or by calling 01622 630016. tors pulling the plug on the Paperwork lodged with Compa- popular eatery. nies House shows Todo Sobre Ltd Butcher Norman Gunne (right), was warned in December 2015 that Village fete of Gunne Butchers Ltd, of Bexhill, it faced being struck off and dis- RYARSH village fete returns on says his High Street placard- solved, but that threat was lifted in Saturday, June 18. waving protest was a last-ditch at- early 2016. There will be more than 60 stalls tempt to get the restaurant’s direc- Mr Gunne (78) said: “This is a and attractions including live music, tors to pay his £9,000 bill. cialist, Wilson Field has been en- lovely place with some good re- inflatable slide, bungee trampoline, A member of staff: “This was the gaged to advise the directors…At views. archery, sand art, hog roast, cream first we knew about any problem. this stage, until further information “However, the owners had not teas and tarot readings. The restaurant is always busy and has been obtained, we are unable to settled my bill and refused to dis- The fete is on the green from 1pm there was no inkling of any finan- make a comment, but creditors will cuss it. While some people are to 5pm. More details at www.face- cial concerns.” be advised in due course.” happy to behave like this and can book.com/RyarshVillageFete. The umbrella business, Todo A member of The Fancy Goat’s sleep at night, that’s not my way Sobre Ltd, of Cooling Close, Maid- waiting staff said: “Unfortunately, and I had to demonstrate enough Bats restriction stone, is now in the hands of insol- the public don’t realise that the staff was enough. TRAFFIC calming measures will not vency specialists Wilson Field. haven’t been paid since May, ei- “No one wants to put anyone out be installed on the approach road to The company has been ap- ther. But we are united in wanting of business and I will work with the the 700-home development at Ley- pointed as licensed insolvency to keep the restaurant going as a staff on a cash basis if they can keep bourne Chase because of roosting practitioner, but was unable to pro- mini co-op, from the bottle boy to the business going. It is a shame bats. Builder Taylor Wimpey says vide any further detail. the head chef, and have been rene- that these nice people are caught the presence of the animals means A Wilson Field spokesman said: gotiating with our suppliers, in- up in a quagmire that is not of their pelican crossings and streets lights “Insolvency and turnaround spe- cluding Mr Gunne, who have all own making.” cannot be put in. All LOADS Ltd Loose or Bags 01622 873 231 Specialists in supplying aggregates Get your garden ready for Summer All bags are £40 Top Soil • Sand & Ballast Free Delivery Bulk bag waste collection - Call for details www.allloads.co.uk email:[email protected]

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Malling June 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk

SummerMaidstone Festival

Saturday 2 July K Sports chairman Rod Clark presents Tracey Crouch with a gift for her baby Entertainment Cobdown’s got LIVE MUSIC DANCE TROUPES sporting vision A MAJOR plan to transform Cob- “I have great hopes that we are re- CHOIRS down Sports and Social Club into a ally going to champion sport here.” centre of excellence for a range of Mr Dennington said: “The vision GRAFFITI sports has been unveiled. for the K Sports project is to increase More than 100 guests from na- participation across a range of FACE PAINTING tional and local sport organisations, sports, fostering and encouraging including former England soccer excellence, alongside supporting ac- WACKY BIKES coach Peter Taylor and ex-Gilling- ademic achievement and vocational ham coach Andy Hessenthaler, learning. It will also become a fan- joined politicians and county and tastic family venue.” YARN BOMBING borough council bosses at the for- The centre plans to hire out the ar- mal launch of K Sports. tificial pitches to local teams and The scheme for the Station Road, community groups from Monday to Live Music Ditton site includes a large exten- Friday with matches and training at sion to the clubhouse and gym, cre- weekends. GET INUIT ating five squash courts with a glass “The clubhouse, function suite show court. and plans for a restaurant will com- Plans also include a floodlit 3G plement all sports sections and be HOBO JONES & football pitch, sand-dressed surface available for hire to the wider com- THE JUNKYARD DOGS for hockey, netball and other sports, munity,” said Mr Dennington. “The an upgrade of the clubhouse, and a K Sports target is to be ready for the changing room block for four teams start of the 2016-17 season, and we NO LIMIT STREET BAND and officials as well as toilets for look forward to offering a warm spectators. welcome to friends old and new.” CLEA LLEWELLYN TRIO Details were outlined by Alan The scheme was due to receive of- Dennington, K Sports chief execu- ficial approval from Tonbridge and RHONDA AND tive, before Sports Minister Tracey Malling councillors on the eve of the Crouch, performed the opening cer- launch but the application was THE GREAT UNKNOWN emony. Miss Crouch said the new withdrawn before the planning centre would provide opportunities meeting and will be considered at a LARKSPUR for the whole community, adding: later date. DANIEL SON BLOCO FOGO Veronica quits after 30 years SECRETARY Veronica Tipp was OLD SCHOOL SAMBA asked to help out at Snodland Town Council for two weeks – and stayed BATERIAS NOT INCLUDED for 30 years. But Veronica, who is also cemetery manager, is retiring in July. "One of the councillors asked STARTS MIDDAY me to come here to help for two weeks, " she said. "Then I was offered a permanent job.” TOWN CENTRE She will continue as secretary of Snodland Twinning Association and is also a trustee, secretary and treasurer of the Alms Houses Trust. Thanks to the Maidstone Summer Festival's Media Partner, The Downs Mail She will also still be involved in the annual real ale festival and cricket match but will resign as secretary of the Snodland Partnership. The council’s new secretary is Elinor Jones who previously worked as a rent ofﬁcer for Gravesham Borough Council for eight years. She is on the left of the picture with Veronica.

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Malling June 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Top brass THE Aveley and Newham Brass Careless ﬂytippers left Band will return to St Peter and St Paul’s on Saturday, June 25 for another concert organised by the Friends of Aylesford Church. Tickets for the concert at 7.30pm their details in rubbish are available from Brenda Sladen on 01622 882395, Anita Keays 01622 TWO men were fined in connec- 719589 or on the door. Admission is tion with flytipping after council £9 for members, £10 for non-mem- officers found names and ad- bers £10, and includes a coffee in dresses in the debris. the interval. Wine and fruit juice The boss of a double glazing firm will also be available. was ordered to pay almost £3,000 in fines, costs and compensation after rubbish was found dumped in Birthday fete Church Road, East Peckham. RYARSH Primary School celebrates The waste (pictured) included bro- its 75th birthday at its fete on Sat- ken doors and windows, broken trusted with the disposal of con- transferred the waste to someone he urday, June 11. glass and plastic sheeting, and a trolled waste. had never met before and who had Horse and cart rides, a bouncy label on packaging addressed to Su- He was also ordered to pay costs contacted him through a casual con- castle and tombola are among the perior Windows and Doors Ltd of of £1,167, compensation of £243 to tact he had met in a pub. highlights at the Birling Road Crown Acres, East Peckham. cover clean-up costs and a victim He admitted a breach of statutory school from 1-3pm. Evidence found by Tonbridge and surcharge of £75. duty in relation to flytipping and Anyone with memorabilia from Malling Council environmental offi- In a separate case, Ross Mills (30) was fined £750 with costs of £942 their school days is asked to email cers at a second site in Postern Lane, was fined in connection with flytip- and a victim surcharge of £75. He [email protected]. Tonbridge, also highlighted the ping in Fartherwell Road, West was also ordered to pay £110 to company, Sevenoaks magistrates Malling, after his name and address cover clean-up costs. Going Greek were told. were found among domestic debris Cllr David Lettington, Tonbridge The firm’s owner and sole direc- which included a large bath, tiling, and Malling cabinet member for AYLESFORD and Eccles WI mem- tor, Joseph Busby (30), of Crown painting items and packaging. street scene and environment serv- bers have chosen a Greek theme for Acres, East Peckham, admitted two The court heard he had employed ices, said: “We all have a duty to en- their garden party-style evening in charges of breach of statutory duty someone to dispose of the rubbish sure that any waste we produce, the Brassey Rooms, Station Road, in relation to flytipping and was after having a new kitchen and bath- whether it be domestic or commer- Aylesford, at 7.30pm on Wednes- fined £750 for each offence. room fitted at his home in Penning- cial, is disposed of properly. day, June 22. The court heard he had used a ton Road, Southborough. “This means that all the checks are There will be a demonstration of third party to dispose of the com- However, he had not taken meas- made to ensure that contractors are Greek dancing by Chris Cousti. For pany’s rubbish without checking ures to ensure that they were autho- properly authorised to dispose of the details, call Eileen on 01622 715205. that they were licensed and could be rised to do the work. Mills had waste we are entrusting to them.” Leaﬂet NEWDistribution Now TAKE AWAY MENU available Local Indian Restaurant with FREE DELIVERY Maidstone Open until 11pm every day Free bottle of and Malling’s beer with every No.1 Free £10 spentHandymanLocal

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Malling June 2016 13 WE ARE COMMITTED TO HELPING VISUAL STRESS IN CHILDREN Symptoms Include: • the words “moving“ • print blurring • letters changing size & shape • halo of colours that surround letters or words • tired eyes whilst reading

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14 Malling June 2016 News downsmail.co.uk Stones’ big plans as they go up VICTORIOUS Maidstone United have reached the highest tier of non-league football – and now they need a bigger ground. The club – which qualified for Na- tional League status next season after beating Ebbsfleet United in the play-offs – need to increase the Gal- lagher Stadium’s capacity by another 1,000 to meet requirements. The riverside ground can already hold 3,030 but must be able to demonstrate it can raise it to 4,000 by the end of March 2017. The club will submit a planning application to Maidstone Borough Council in due course, outlining a desire to extend the terracing at the Springfield end. The new terrace, with a capacity of 1,500, would be built into spare land behind the current structure. Stones fans celebrate as the last-gasp equaliser goes in and right, Stones A spokesman for the Stones said: keeper Lee Worgan was the shoot-out hero “We have to increase the capacity to 4,000 by the end of next March. model and good management – has in years. Maidstone looked to be “We’ll get an application into the seen the club on an upward curve. heading out until a last-gasp borough council and hopefully they The Gallagher Stadium is re- equaliser in the dying seconds of will give us the green light.” garded as one of the best non-league extra time sent the tie through to The promotion at Ebbsfleet’s stadia in the country and has en- penalties, which the Stones won 4-3, Stonebridge Road on Saturday, May joyed higher attendances than most thanks largely to goalkeeper Lee 14, marks a remarkable turnaround other clubs at a similar level in non- Worgan’s heroics. for a club which won a place in the league football. There are few fans The spokesman added; “The play- football league in 1989 but went who believe they cannot be serious off final was a bit heart-stopping, to bust three seasons later. contenders, even at the higher level. say the least. But we got there in the It re-emerged as a small non- The Stones triumphed over Ebbs- end. league entity and in recent years – fleet – watched by 3,800 fans - in one “Now we have next season to with investment, a solid business of the most dramatic play-off finals look forward to.” Garden of flowers to remember loved ones HEART of Kent Hospice is inviting families, relatives and friends to celebrate and remember the life of a loved one this summer by taking part in its Sunflower Appeal. The Sunflower Appeal provides an opportunity for families and friends to dedicate a sunflower in memory of someone special and make a donation; ensuring more patients and families get the very best “The care given was exemplary hospice care and support. and all the staff were very profes- The appeal will culminate in a day sional. For any family, remembering of remembrance and celebration at their loved ones is important and for the Aylesford-based hospice from us the Sunflower Appeal is a lovely Outgoing mayor, Cllr Owen Baldock hands over the mayoral chain to his 11am to 1pm on Saturday June 25, way to remember Mum as she loved successor, Cllr Mark Rhodes. when the hospice garden will be flowers and enjoyed gardening.” turned into a sea of flowers. Ann-Marie Kelly, director of in- There will be time for reflection come generation for Heart of Kent Mayor Mark takes the chain with a short service at 11.30am led Hospice, said: “Many people find by the hospice’s chaplain, followed our Sunflower Appeal a really posi- THE new mayor of Tonbridge and Malling is Cllr Mark Rhodes, who will be by a plant sale and refreshments. tive way to keep happy memories of taking to Twitter and Facebook throughout his year in office to talk about For Shirley Town’s daughters, their loved one alive. By supporting his visits and events. Sara and Louise, the Sunflower Ap- our Sunflower Appeal you will en- Cllr Rhodes (60), an electronics engineer, has represented Hildenbor- peal will be an opportunity to re- sure that even more patients and ough ward since he was first elected to the borough council in 1987. His member their mum, from Loose, their families will be able to benefit wife, Julie, is the new mayoress. who spent her final two and a half from the skilled and compassionate He was handed the chain of office by outgoing mayor Cllr Owen Bal- weeks at the hospice last year. care we offer.” dock at the council’s annual meeting. “Mum settled in very quickly and For details, go to our website The charities that the mayor has chosen to support during his year of of- it soon became evident just how www.hokh.org/ways-to- fice are Age UK Sevenoaks and Tonbridge, and Wide Horizons in Wrotham, friendly, caring, calming and safe the donate/our-appeals/sunflower- a children’s centre providing outdoor activities and adventure learning.. hospice was,” said the girls. appeal

Malling June 2016 15 Dementia Day Care Age Concern Rotary House West Malling Living with dementia or know someone who is? Feeling alone and need support? LET US HELP! Now open five days per week Monday - Friday 9:30 – 14:30

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16 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk Parking charges | News Parking fees The Seekers Trust Healing Centre ‘hiing trade’

BUSINESSES in West Malling are feeling the pinch following the in- MICHELLE Lane, proprietor of the troduction of car parking charges award-winning shoe shop Soles in West Malling. With Heart, said: “The number of Motorists have been giving the customers has market town a wide berth since gone down Tonbridge and Malling council in- considerably. troduced daytime parking fees at “I lost one the High Street car park in April. only yesterday Previously, spaces were at a pre- when a mum mium in the car park behind Tesco, came in to but up to half can be found vacant browse, de- at any one time since the council im- cided she was going to buy school posed the 60p per hour charge. shoes for her children – then re- The parish council continues to alised she didn’t have time left on fight the imposition and has set up a her parking ticket.” dedicated website for comments – OPEN DAY westmalling.info/feedback-on-car- Malling Chamber of Commerce, parking.html – as Tonbridge and said: “The footfall in town is down on Malling Council has said it will re- and a number of businesses, partic- view its policy in a year’s time. ularly the coffee shops, have re- Saturday 2nd July 2016 Parish council chairman Trudy ported a lower revenue in May this Dean said: “We need everyone to year compared to last. 10.30am-3.30pm explain the impact on their shop- “I counted 67 empty spaces in the ping habits. They (Tonbridge and car park one Friday afternoon – Malling council) didn’t believe the that’s unheard of. However, we parish council and the local cham- want people to remain positive and • Set in 39 acres of gardens and woodland ber of commerce so we need people support us, we don’t want the High to tell their real stories.” Street to die off. • Guided tours of our estate But shopkeepers say a year is too “We are not just competing with long, with business down in a mat- online shopping, but with places • Healing available all day ter of just a few weeks. like Bluewater which have free Julia Smith, secretary of the West parking. Times are tough and the • Taster meditation and tai chi sessions last thing we need is an excuse to make shoppers stay away.” • Talk on the work of The Trust Mrs Smith said issues with the parking machines “swallowing” • Talk on the healing power of crystals money had not helped. “People find they are paying for parking time • Join us in our Prayer Circles which they are not getting, which adds even more frustration.” • Stalls; Crystals, Books, Gifts, Tombola, Raffle With a maximum stay of three hours between 8am and 5.30pm and • Tearoom open all day for light refreshments, no return within three hours, shoppers are unable to buy a second homemade cakes and scones ticket. • Ploughman's lunches available “We would ask everyone to continue to support our small independent local businesses. They are the The Seekers Trust - The Lilacs - The Close – Addington - innocent ones in all this and need our support more West Malling – Kent - ME19 5BL than ever” Tel: (01732) 843589 Parish councillor Richard Selkirk Website: wwwtheseekerstrust.com Email: [email protected] No time for coﬀee and chat Registered Charity No 222877 WRITING ontheonlinbe forum, Another resident said she and Streetlife, a resident said: “I went her partner often went to West into West Malling at midday. I Malling for a drink and a meal, bought an hour, which meant I leaving their car overnight. did not stop for coffee with the She said: “You can’t do that friend I ran into and didn’t have now as you have to have a park- time to buy a birthday card. ing ticket from 8am and you can’t “I got home to a call reminding buy a ticket in advance – so no me of an appointment at 1.30pm more West Malling for us. It’s a – but where would I park, as you great shame for the retailers and can’t return within three hours?” restaurateurs.”

Malling June 2016 17 News downsmail.co.uk Police target drug gangs REVIEW moving in from capital GANGS of drug dealers are tar- Last summer, Kent Police “We are continuing to work very geting towns in Kent – including launched Operation Jupiter, a team hard to identify those we believe Maidstone – in a meticulously or- created to target organised crime are trying to sell drugs in our ganised expansion of operations gangs attempting to supply drugs towns and if you are planning to which have their origins in the and intimidate vulnerable people commit crime there is a very high capital. in parts of Kent. chance we already know who you More than 80 sophisticated net- The creation of Operation Jupiter are and my of- Not the end for works of criminals are suspected of signals an increased focus by Kent ficers will ar- spreading their trade into the Police on emerging criminal gangs, rest you.” Max and Ivan Home Counties, employing busi- whose members often travel into Tunbridge MAIDSTONE hosted some of the ness-like sales and marketing ploys Kent from areas outside of the Wells Chief most strange and inventive com- to drum up new customers. county, particularly London. Inspector edy around when double act Max The gangs enter new territories Although Jupiter was launched Dave Pate and Ivan came to the Exchange with business cards, travelling to tackle the apparent rise in activ- (left) said: Theatre. salespeople, direct text-messaged ity in north Kent, Kent Police ac- “One of the The pair opened with a series of marketing and ‘introductory of- knowledges there are other problems we comedy sketches before perform- fers’ on their wares, according to significant problems in Maidstone have identi- ing their award-winning show The one report in a national newspa- and other towns, particularly Tun- fied over the past two years has End, which tells the surreal story of per. bridge Wells. been caused by dealers travelling a seaside town facing annihilation Four main groups, says the re- Chief Superintendent Adrian in to Kent from places such as Lon- as the local nuclear re-processing port, appear to be targeting Kent: Futers said at the time: “Our initial don and who have attempted to plant melts down. Shower, Younger PDC, Woolwich focus will be to crack down hard sell class A substances including A small but enthusiastic crowd Boys and Gipset. on those trying to sell drugs and cocaine and heroin. was pressed into action, with one The dealers are becoming prolific who criminally exploit the vulner- “What is pleasing is that the member of the audience being in a string of towns within easy able, which can have a devastating courts are supporting our hard called upon to provide lines for the reach of the capital, such as Ox- impact on our communities. work. In this time, they have show and another being co-opted ford, Cambridge, Guildford, “We are aware there is a signifi- handed down sentences totalling into a karaoke performance. Epsom, Crawley and Salisbury. cant element of drug dealing which 119 years.” The show has played successfully But they are also known to have has resulted from people travelling The exact number of arrests and at the Edinburgh Festival where it started to ply their trade in Maid- into north Kent. Offenders are convictions for drug offences in the was nominated as best comedy stone, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells often from London and are part of Maidstone area has been requested show. Neil Nixon and Rochester. a larger drug-dealing network. by the Downs Mail. ARTIFICIAL UPTO 20% GRASS SALE OFF

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18 Malling June 2016 AUNT SALLY’S KITCHEN Dining Family Run Cafe Out Mid Kent Shopping Centre - Allington Come and visit our friendly family run

The light nights, lovely weather a la carte menu from Tuesday to cafe. Serving good quality home cooked and beautiful countryside in this Sunday. food in comfortable surroundings. part of the world provide the Mark and Kirsty invite you to try perfect backdrop for some We pride ourselves on using locally sourced their fine selection of food, real fantastic days and nights out. ales and wine and to sample a food including Rickwoods of Bearsted. Making the most of summer is warm evening outside and the something we all pledge to do in warm atmosphere within. We offer a full range of breakfasts, light the depths of winter, so let’s do it! That great customer service is lunches, home cooked hot meals, homemade You’ll soon realise that in this corner of Kent we are spoilt for something fans will find on offer cakes, snacks and much more. at Aunt Sally’s Kitchen in choice, with some fantastic places To top it all our customer service offering a range of unique places Allington. to enjoy something to eat and Serving locally-sourced food for is second to none. drink. breakfast, light lunch, and The Hop Pole Inn in the village of afternoon tea, this is a great place • Free Wifi Nettlestead Green has a to enjoy home-cooked food in • Free Parking wonderful sheltered beer garden, comfortable surroundings, or with swings and a slide for the share some freshly-brewed tea or • Take Away children. There’s even a large coffee with a large slice of cake, or conservatory dining area, some jam and cream scones. Opening Times meaning you can enjoy the great Aunt Sally prides itself on outdoors from indoors, along Monday to Saturday offering customer service that is 8.00am til 4.00pm with the fantastic views across the second to none and, along with heart of Kent. free parking, free wifi and a take- Sunday 01622 297271 The traditional 17th century away service, there’s something 9.00am til 1.00pm country pub boasts a carvery and for everyone, seven days a week. Find us on Facebook The Hop Pole Nettlestead Green

Mark and Kirsty welcome you to The Hop Pole Inn located in Nettlestead Green.

We pride ourselves on our freshly cooked food and homemade desserts. A carvery is served six days a week Tuesday to Sunday and our a la carte menu is also available. Large parties are catered for and we have a large conservatory dining area. Father’s day, 19th June, bookings now being taken. We pride ourselves on our warm and friendly atmosphere. Large beer garden and plenty of parking 01622 Pub quiz and bingo nights held 816916 every month. See our Facebook page.

Maidstone Road, Nettlestead Green, For further details visit: Maidstone, Kent. ME18 5HH www.hop-pole-nettlestead.co.uk

Malling June 2016 19 20 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Kent Music’s Samba and dancing at vacancy plea KENT Music is looking for a new chairman to take over from Richard town’s summer festival Finn,who is stepping down from the role after three successful terms. His replacement is expected to THE county town of Kent will be a take a leading role in the direction of splash of colour as local groups Kent Music, working to ensure that come together for a spectacular music education continues to thrive Summer Festival. in the county. Terms of office are for Shops have been asked to deck renewable periods of three years. their windows in the brightest of The position is unpaid but expenses colours as singers, dancers, artists are available and tickets provided and a host of other entertainers take for Kent Music events. to the streets on Saturday, July 2 for Chief executive Peter Bolton said: a bumper celebration of local talent. “We are looking for someone with a Three Samba bands, three dance passion for music and education schools, singers, school groups and with experience of senior leadership. baton twirlers are among artistes Above all, we are seeking a good who have promised to take part in Old School Samba band communicator and ambassador, displays at venues around the town. cluded. Seven local bands are taking loon modelling, stilt walkers and with a network of contacts in Kent And as last year, the Downs Mail part, including headliners Get Inuit, magicians. and beyond, who is able to talk cred- is proud to be the community Rhonda and the Great Unknown, Irish folk dancing group from Fry- ibly about music education.” event’s official media partner. local folk band Larkspur, The Big days Academy is shining up its He added: “Richard has worked The festival, being organised by Sing and Hobo Jones and The Junk- shoes ready to get jigging, teenagers tirelessly for the organisation for One Maidstone, the town’s new yard Dogs. from the Vocademy singing school nearly a decade and his successor community interest company, will Much of the action will take place are tuning up and Mandy Ellen Per- will find an organisation in good fi- take place at venues around the in Jubilee Square, with other dance forming Arts and the Margaret nancial shape with a clear sense of town centre, including Jubilee and music displays in Brenchley Preedy Dance School are both put- direction.” Square and Brenchley Gardens, with Gardens, Fremlin Walk and St ting together routines to entertain Kent Music, in partnership with all-day entertainment offering fun Faith’s Street. shoppers and visitors. Kent County Council, delivers in- for all the family. There will also be wacky bikes in Activities get underway from strumental and vocal teaching to Maidstone Baton Twirlers will be Brenchley Gardens, a street artist in noon and continue until 4pm. more than 14,000 students and or- joined by Bloco Fogo, Old School Jubilee Square and face-painters in For more information, contact Ilsa ganises music groups and summer Samba and the Maidstone Grammar two locations, plus street entertain- Butler at One Maidstone – 01622 schools. For more details, visit the School samba band Baterias Not In- ment including yarn bombing, bal- 678777. website www.kent-music.com. Book Fathersnow Day for

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22 Malling June 2016 Local news for Snodland and Halling A Downs Mail supplement produced in conjunction Town Talk with the Snodland Chamber of Commerce. Arsonists attack five cars

A COUPLE were woken up by po- later you could feel the heat com- lice knocking on their door just being off it. fore midnight to be told that their Linda said: “The police were car had been damaged in an arson banging on our front door at about attack. 11.30. They said there had been a Two vehicles (pictured) were fire in the car park, damaging five completely burned out and three vehicles, and two fire engines had others were damaged at the car attended." park in Rocfort Road, Snodland. Linda's car, a VW Golf, was 19 Graham and Linda Hasemore, of years old, taxed, insured, with MOT Malling Road, were woken by po- and children's car seats. lice officers. Graham immediately She added that she has to have went down to his garden, which a car and bought a new one the has a doorway into the car park following day. She was full of where he had left his car . praise for her insurance company, He said: “Although it was an hour SAGA, for their help. Pupils mark Pentecost with picnic and games PUPILS at Snodland CE Primary School celebrated the birth of the Christian Church with a Pente- cost Picnic. There were 12 candles on the birthday cake and all the children sang happy birthday before en- joying a picnic and an afternoon of fun and games on the school Hennon defeated field. The event raised £362 for All Saints’ Church in TV showdown Year 3 pupil Sky said she loved having a Pentecost party to cele- GEORGE Hennon, the 21-year-old brate the birth of the church and Office manager Jacqueline pupils to understand one of the welterweight boxing prospect from Abbe, in year 5, said: "I really Hunt said: "The Pentecost Picnic most important but less well- Snodland, has appeared on Sky liked the party games, it was lots has now become an annual known festivals in the Christian Sports TV but lost his fourth pro- of fun." event at the school, helping calendar." fessional fight. He travelled to Glasgow to fight Sam Ball, who won his first six bouts, and had him down in the Damaged bus shelter replaced after two-year delay first round. He hit the canvas himself in the second round and again THE bus shelter in Holborough replace the shelter but we do not in the third. He beat the count but Road between Ostlers Court and have a date for installation yet." the referee called the fight off. Queens Avenue, Snodland – dam- After more complaints we re- George said: "I spoke to Sam af- aged by a bus almost two years ported in December 2015 that the terwards and he told us he had ago – has finally been replaced! shelter had still not been replaced never been put down before. He Town Talk reported in October and the borough council said got in the ring at 11st 11lbs, he was 2014 that residents were complain- ClearChannel was the contractor just too big for me." ing that a new shelter had not been that provides and maintains bus George, pictured (left) with Sam, erected. Mike O'Brien, of Tonbridge shelters on behalf of the council. has his next fight in Essex on July & Malling Council. said at the time: There was a delay while details of 1. "The contractor has been asked to a new contract was agreed.

SATURDAY 9th JULY SUNDAY 10th JULY TICKET OFFER AVAILABLE UNTIL 1ST JULY INFORMATION and TICKETS ON SALE at www.snodlandpartyinthepark.co.uk or Hicks Estate Agents, 31 High Street, Snodland ME6 5DF Concert information telephone 07841921016 Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Lydia takes over at meadow cafe LYDIA West is the new owner of the cafe at the pavilion on the cricket meadow, Snodland. She told Town Talk she has always wanted her own tea rooms or cafe so when the opportunity turned up she went for it. Pupils mark Queen’s birthday "It is in one of the best spots AFTER learning about the Queen, pupils at the Church of England in Snodland Primary School, Snodland, dressed in red, white and blue, and planted with car parking bulbs around the school to mark her birthday. and the cricket All the children received a commemorative coin to mark the occa- meadow for sion and head teacher Holley Hunt said: “I'm sure the Queen would kids to run have been very impressed with our birthday celebrations for her.” around in," she said. Lydia had Work due to start on Co-op previously worked at her Children meet Peppa Pig at the cricket WORK is due to start "very soon" on the conversion of the former aunt's tea meadow cafe and right, Lydia West Bull public house in Holborough Road, Snodland, which could rooms at Great open by the end of October. Comp Gardens. She was there for five years but it was The Co-operative Group took out a 20-year lease on the build- seasonal work. ing in September 2014, and various dates have been given for She has two children, Michael, aged seven, and Is- opening as a Co-op store. abella, aged two and lives at Pollyfield Close, Holbor- The branch at 46-48 High Street, which includes the post office, ough Lakes, Snodland. will close and the post office will be transferred to the Bull building. During the recent school holiday Peppa Pig entertained the children The Co-op store at 11 High Street is not affected. at the cafe, who had a wonderful time. A company spokesman said: "I cannot confirm 100%, but it looks Michelle Pearce, of Saltings Road, Snodland, ran the cafe for 14 like the dates have been brought forward. We are looking to open years and left for family reasons. at the end of October, so work will start very soon." She said: "I really enjoyed my time there and was sad to leave the friends I made.I wish the new people good luck."

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WE ARE AN INDEPENDENT FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING A 24 HOUR, PERSONAL, CARING SERVICE. Snodland Town Council 01634 240228 ARRANGEMENTS CAN BE MADE AT Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council 01732 844522 OUR OFFICE OR IN THE COMFORT OF Kent County Council YOUR OWN HOME 03000 41 41 41 Contact Town Talk Snodland Library •PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE 01634 243776 Editor: • PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST Stephen Eighteen Snodland Post Office 01622 630330 01634 242857 •MEMORIALS SUPPLIED ext 231 Snodland Medical Centre • ALL AREAS COVERED Advertising: 01634 240296 01622 630330 Police (non urgent) 01622 690690 Lower Halling Post Office Stores 01634 240230 email: [email protected] 31 High Street, Snodland Tel: 01634 240458 Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Dentist’s surgery hit by car A 19-YEAR-OLD man from Ayles- tor, Phil Mulroney, described the in- ford was arrested on suspicion of cident as "a nightmare you don't drink-driving after a car wrecked expect". the front and side wall of a dentist's He said the dentist had moved to surgery in Holborough Road, Snodland Dental Care in the High Snodland. Street, which the company also He was bailed pending further owns, and no appointments were Haircut prizes enquiries until July 25. missed. CUSTOMERS at a Snodland bar- It is thought the man had bought Building and contents loss ad- ber’s can win a free haircut in a a kebab at Snodland Kebab justors have been on the site, a charity sweepstake for the UEFA House, which is a short distance contractor had been appointed Euro 2016 football competition. from Holborough Dental Surgery. and he expected the surgery to be Alex Mackintosh who runs The crash in Holborough Road Southern Dental's property direc- open three weeks after the crash. Alexanders The Barbershop in the High Street is raising funds for the Heart of Kent Hospice. For £1 customers pick a num- Animals blessed at annual church service bered ball out of a bag which cor- AN animal blessing service has responds to one of the 24 taken place at All Saints’ Church, countries in the competition. Snodland. Alex, who hopes to raise £100 In her sermon, the Rev Mandy for the hospice, is pictured with Young spoke of the need to re- Billy Gould of Townsend Square, flect on the true meaning of stew- Kings Hill. ardship and to recognise our obligation to care for not only those animals that are easy to like, such as dogs and cats. "We must also remember the many species that are 'out of sight and out of mind', she said. "Those that do not appeal to our THIS vehicle has been protective instincts, those we the service, wrote to the Rev turned to All Saints’ for the an- “parked” on the roundabout at farm and those in the wild etc." Hugh Broadbent, Rector of nual animal blessing. We felt very Ham Hill, Snodland for several Janet Murphy, who attended Snodland, saying: "Nick and I re- much part of the church family. “ weeks.

SNODLAND TOWN COUNCIL nd SATURDAY 2 JULY 2016

POTYNS SPORTSGROUND CONSTITUTION HILL

16 High Street, Snodland

01634 242588 AlexandersBarbershop.co.uk

Various Stalls

Parade leaves 1.30pm Beer Tent

Holmesdale School Glenduart Pipe Band

Malling Road Redhill Corps of Drums

* Brooks Academy of Dance Win a FREE haircut Arrives 2.00pm Silhouette Dance School If you pick a winner. Potyns Sportsground Fun Fair

Paddlesworth Road Belly Dancers £1 donation to Sweepstake Wrestling

FOR MORE INFORMATION

* All money raised goes to Heart of Kent Hospice CONTACT COUNCIL OFFICES ON 01634 240228 Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Alex’s run to help cancer mum Becky

AN 11-year-old boy ran more than eight miles from Maidstone to Snodland to raise money for a friend with terminal cancer. Audience solves murder mystery Alex Wenham, a pupil at the A FULL house supported Lottery for Murder, the third production of Church of England Primary School, Snodland and Valley Community Players (SaVCoPs) in the Devonshire Snodland, lived in Norman Road, Rooms, Waghorn Road, Snodland. Snodland but has since moved to Written and directed by Neil Vinall, the mystery evening started with a Calder Road, Maidstone. with mum short play about the reading of Great Aunt Vanda's will and there were Ann-Marie Lee and her partner threats and accusations among the disgruntled recipients of her estate. Pete Lee. This was followed by a ploughman's supper and the audience then His run raised money for Becky quizzed members of the cast to find out who committed the murder. Watts, of Abery Drive, Larkfield, Becky Watts with Alex Wenham The group has once again entered the Medway Little Theatre's Dun- who was given a year to live 18 can Rand One Act Play Festival from July 11-16. Anybody interested in High Street to the community cen- months ago. Since then Becky (42) tre. joining SaVCoPs can call 01634 244933, email [email protected] or has been raising money to go on go to snodlandvalleycommunityplayers.com. "Alex wanted to do something to trips to leave happy memories for help Becky," said Richard. "I am her children Alfie (12), Mason hugely grateful for what he has Homes plans Speed limit (three) and her partner Richard done." THE company which owns China KENT County Council is imposing Munn. Alex, who raised £300, is pictured Chaps, which moved from Holbor- double yellow lines and a 20mph TheyhavebeentoEuroDisney, with Becky. To make a donation to ough Road, Snodland to the High speed limit on the Holborough Tenerife, Thorpe Park and Winter The Becs Factor go to www.becs- Street, has submitted a planning Lakes development in Snodland. Wonderland. and the money raised factor.org. application to Tonbridge & Malling The speed limit will apply to by Alex will pay for a weekend at Becky is a friend of George Hen- Borough Council. Amisse Drive, Ashfield Close, Berry Butlins. non, the Snodland welterweight It wants to convert the ground Drive, Hambrook Road, Higham Richard accompanied Alex on boxer who won his first three pro- floor shop sales area of its old shop Close, Linnitt Road, Poynder Close, the run from Lock Meadow along fessional bouts. George said he to three shops and the upper floors Primrose Close and Wickham the River Medway to the Malta Inn, would hand over 25% of his purse to four one-bedroom flats and two Road. Most of Manley Boulevard through Aylesford, over the old for his last fight against Bulgarian bedsits. The company also wants and Poynder Drive are included. bridge, past the railway station, fighter, Danny Donchev, which he to build a courtyard cottage at 2, Most of the roads will have dou- through Reeds Industrial Estate to won on points 40-36 and donated Holborough Road. ble yellow lines. Leybourne Lakes, up Snodland £385.

A friendly, supportive and disciplined environment, which puts student progress at the heart of our mission. We offer state of the art facilities, situated in extensive green playing fields.

Open events and school tours for current Year 5 students will take place in September and October.

The Holmesdale School, Malling Road, Snodland, Kent, ME6 5HS Tel: 01634 240416 or Email: [email protected]

For more information, please visit our website at www.holmesdale.kent.sch.uk Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Pioneer’s life is recorded in book A BIOGRAPHY about Thomas organ at Christ Church for 59 years. Fletcher Waghorn, the man who pi- He was presented with the Kent Organisers (from left) Maria Hargrave, Chris Bosman, Margaret Beaney, oneered the overland route from Association of Local Councils Helen Orme, Pete Beaney and Gina Turner Great Britain to India, has been Community Award by the town written by a Snodland man. council last year and in 2006 he Zeal Un- was given a Good Samaritan Dance marks Queen’s birthday abated: The life award by Snodland Chamber of SNODLAND Town Active Retirement Association (STARA) held a of Thomas Commerce for his charity work. dance to mark the Queen's 90th birthday at the community centre. Fletcher Andrew said: "Waghorn’s re- Bridget Cork, STARA chair, said: “The organising committee, led by Waghorn (1800- markable energy meant he was Gina Turner, did a magnificent job of decorating the community cen- 1850) by An- constantly on the move as a sailor, tre in red, white and blue. The tables were beautifully presented and drew Ashbee entrepreneur and adventurer. we were entertained by Band on the Run who played music from the (left), of Malling “For some 25 years before his 60s and 70s. Road, is on sale early death in 1850, the name "The ladies looked very glamorous and the gentlemen, some of in local book- Thomas Fletcher Waghorn was whom wore their medals, were very smart. shops. constantly in the public eye. His "A delicious cold buffet was provided by Dylis Crook and her team. Waghorn was born in Chatham, obsession was to speed communi- There was a raffle and the organising committee members were pre- where there is a statue of him near cation between England and India sented with gifts as appreciation for all their hard work." the railway station. He built and and he had considerable success.” lived in The Lodge – now Hedera Andrew said Waghorn often fell House – in High Street, Snodland – out with those in authority as he Help needed to steward carnival route and is buried at All Saints’ Church. strove to promote his cause but, as SNODLAND Town Council is appealing for volunteers to help po- Andrew is an expert in 17th cen- the son of a butcher, he had neither lice the route of the parade at the town’s carnival on July 2. tury English instrumental music the wealth nor influence to support Floats and walkers travel down Malling Road from Holmesdale and has written more than 30 his efforts. School, turn right into the High Street at the crossroads, left into books, mainly about music. He has Andrew continued: "Ultimately he Queens Avenue, left into Holborough Road, right into the High been the conductor of Snodland had to bow to the inevitable as the Street and up Constitution Hill to Potyns Sports Ground. Choral Society since 1981, is a overland route he helped to estab- It involves about 30 minutes on the day but the junctions to all founder member and chairman of lish was taken over by larger con- roads have to be manned.The theme for the carnival is trains as the town's historical society, curator cerns. Many felt he had been Snodland Railway Station is 160 years old this year. of the museum and has played the poorly treated by the Government.

Happy Feet Nursery - New nursery in Snodland Where being small makes a difference Free government funding 2-4 year olds All childcare vouchers accepted New seaside baby theme room Toddler and pre school rooms Big Foot Adventure breakfast and after school club starting from September. Names being taken now Hoilday clubs available 01634 244469 Nursery set in the grounds of Holmesdale School, Malling Road, Snodland, Kent Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling FootballTown Talk club’s successful season

SNODLAND Town Football Club U6s the Consolation Cup. The has capped an incredibly suc- Vets played in the Canterbury & cessful season by winning pro- District League. motion from the Kent County The club's youth secretary, League Premier Division to the Steve Young, was delighted with Members of Southern Counties East League the end of season honours. He the Under Division One next season. said: “What a fantastic season for 6s team at Mel Rayfield, club chairman, the club and thanks go to the Snodland said: “What a memorable and his- managers and coaches for their Town toric season we have had, with hard work and to all the players cup and league successes en- for their commitment this season.” Football joyed not only by a number of the Club CEO Dave Jeal said: "The Club youth and junior teams but also club continues to move forward at celebrate by the veterans team, which was a terrific pace and with big events, winning the crowned league champions and such as the annual football tour- Consolation cup winners in its first season." nament and the return of Party in Cup He added that the first team will the Park this summer, the close be playing in the sixth tier of foot- season will be busier than ever. ball, the highest level of football “There’s a lot to look forward to Teams sign up for annual tournament ever seen in the town. next season and we have some SNODLAND'S annual football tournament will be played at Potyns In the Express Cabs Maidstone great young footballers coming Sports Ground on the weekend of June 18 and 19. Boys Primary League, Snodland through the different age groups Players from the U6s to U18s and Veterans will be taking part. Nomads U15s won the Division as well as our first team starting an Last year the event was a huge success with 148 teams from the One title, the U13s Division Four, historic season in their new South East involved. the U14s the League Cup and the league.” Party in the Park TICKETS are still available for Snodland's Party in the Park at Po- tyns Sports Ground on July 9 and 10. On the Saturday, The Magic of Motown, with special guest Gwen Dickey of Rose Royce tops the bill. Supporting are I am Beyonce and Megan. On Sunday Big Girls Don't Cry, the tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons are supported by X Factor finalist, Austin Bowls club competition raises cash for care home Drage and the Baby Devilles. Information and tickets are avail- SNODLAND Short Mat Bowls Club all over Kent took part. A very en- tured presenting the cheque to Kay able at www.snodlandpartyinthep- held its annual charity competition joyable time was had by all and the Hardy, the manager of Rectory ark.co.uk or call 07841921016. at the community centre and raised eventual winning team came from Close, who thanked the members Tickets can also be bought at £686 for Rectory Close care home. Langley. Many thanks go to all our and said the residents of the home Hicks Estate Agents, 30 High President Don Cribben said: helpers." would decide what would be Street, Snodland. "Twenty-four teams of triples from Don and club members are pic- bought.

The Under 9s team who took part in the penalty shoot-out Towns celebrate 30-year bond MEMBERS of Snodland Twinning Association have celebrated their Penalties raise funds 30th anniversary with a visit to Moyeuvre-Grande in north east France. Six students from Holmesdale School accompanied the party and THE annual penalty shoot-out the morning. spent time with pupils from Moyeuvre school. and presentation evening run by "It was funny seeing so many June Wright said they were greeted by the Mayor, Monsieur Rene Snodland Town Football Club dads hobbling around come the Drouin, officials and a brass band before speeches and an exchange raised £4,250 for the club. evening." of gifts. Members of the U6s to U16s Dave added: "The presentation The following day, there was a trip to Kirwiller, near Strasbourg, and teams took 6,774 penalties during night was well supported and the a burlesque show at the Royal Palace. the morning at Potyns Sports party went on until late, with the The students were taken to a theme park, a chocolate factory and to Ground. kids playing and the mums and Metz, the region's capital city, to see the cathedral and museum. Every player received a trophy dads dancing. Some said it was June thanked Veronica Tipp, the secretary, Graham, the coach driver at the presentation evening. Dave the best penalties and presenta- Holmesdale teacher Maria Martin. Jeal, the club’s chief executive of- tion night for many years.” She added: "We would like to thank all those who hosted us in ficer, who made the presenta- On behalf of the club Dave France for making the 30th anniversary such an exceptional celebrations, said there was also a thanked all the teams for taking tion. Here's to next year when the French will be visiting Snodland." friendly match between dads in part. Anybody interested in the twinning association can contact Veronica on 01634 240598. The Property market is heating up this Summer!

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Malling June 2016 23 News | Elections 2016 downsmail.co.uk Brexit or beer together? VOTERS will go to the polls on Thursday, June 23, to decide whether Britain should leave or remain in the European Union.

Now you have a chance to take “Remain” supporter Helen part in an eve-of-poll opinion sur- Grant, MP for Maidstone and the vey as the countdown begins in Weald, said: “Leaving the EU will earnest. disconnect us and set Britain adrift Simply cut out the coupon on this in a very stormy ocean. Britain is page or go online to tell us if you stronger, safer and better-off re- are ready to “leave” or “remain” in maining in the EU. “Stronger be- the EU. Perhaps you are not yet cause we can play a leading role in sure. one of the world’s largest organisa- The forthcoming referendum will tions from within, helping make be the first opportunity for the the big decisions that affect our fu- British people to register their ture.” views on subject since 1975. Chatham and Aylesford MP But the EU has changed a lot in Tracey Crouch, who has been on the 40 years since that referendum maternity leave following the birth vote to stay in. And now the argu- of her son, Freddie, is yet to declare ments rage about whether Britain her choice. will be stronger or weaker if it See comment & letters, pages 30 leaves the union, involving 28 Eu- and 31 ropean countries, or opts to remain. Many people already have strong Mail distribution area. downsides to going it alone, not views about how they will place Tonbridge MP Tom Tughendhat least great uncertainty. Many of the Have your say their X, but opinion polls indicate told us: “I cannot, in all conscience, farmers I represent are seriously TO gauge what Downs Mail read- that the decision could ultimately follow my heart and not my head worried about the future of the UK ers think, we are inviting you to rest with the third of voters who when to do so would, I believe, di- agriculture outside the EU. “This is complete the simple coupon on are still undecided. On this page we minish our security.” not a decision to be made on in- this page and send it in. have tried to garner the views of Faversham and Mid-Kent MP stinct, but through a serious con- Or you can go online to local community figures, including Helen Whately remains undecided. sideration of the potential www.downsmail.co.uk/views the four Tory MPs in the Downs She said: “There are definite outcomes of either choice.”

Seeing it from both sides A referendum is being held on IN MAIDSTONE, opinion is as divided as in the rest of the country. David Thornewell who is a passionate pro-European, and Eddie Pow- Thursday, June 23, to decide ell, from UKIP, explain their views... whether Britain should leave or Eddie Powell David Thornewell Harrietsham East Malling remain in the European Union. I HAVE struggled I SHALL be vot- To gauge the views of Downs Mail with the concept of ing to stay in the the EU for many EU. It is impossi- readers, we are carrying out our years and its dicta- ble to forecast torial approach to what would hap- own eve-of-poll survey. member countries. pen economically if we left. Many If we vote to leave the EU and stop who want to leave would seek a sending £350m plus per week to the similar arrangement to our present European Union we can spend our trade deals, but without the bits I will vote to: money on priorities like the NHS. they don’t like. EU immigration puts pressure on If we stay in we can address the the NHS and it will get worse if we issues which do not recognise na- stay in. Countries including Serbia, tional borders and which need Leave Albania and Turkey are ready to join joint action, such as climate change. the EU and they in turn will have Many who want to leave do not Remain free access of movement and thus accept climate change as a fact. Oth- use of member state resources. ers oppose wind farms and solar The EU wants to take control of energy, which I feel are needed. Not sure the NHS. The European Commis- Europe helped introduce envi- sion has said we should manage ronmental assessment for major health issues at EU level and the se- projects such as cleaner air and Send your coupon to The Editor, cret TTIP trade deal will let big US beaches, now our rivers. It also companies buy up parts of our NHS. strengthened wildlife protection. Downs Mail, Mail Publications, EU regulations like the clinical tri- Those who argue that employ- als directive are making it harder to ment rights are stronger because of 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green introduce life-saving drugs. our EU membership are correct. I believe if we vote to stay in the Human rights are not directly the Business Park, Bearsted, EU our NHS, which has an amazing result of the EU as the convention reputation, will be in danger. is a separate document and will Maidstone ME14 4DT by June 15 Lets vote to get out of the EU and still apply to us. In an uncertain spend our money on our priorities world, we’re better co-operating and health should always be first. with our European neighbours.

24 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Delays for bus service Joe drafts in trainer for ARRIVA is advising customers to allow extra time for journeys as major roadworks begin in Maidstone. 100 mile dash for cash The bus company warns of likely disruption while the A YALDING coach driver has road system around the abandoned his bus for a bike in a bridges is redesigned, and of a bid to get fighting fit. change to its Sapphire 101 Joe Westgate admits he was some- town centre route. thing of a couch potato – but now The work, which will allow he’s drafted in a Larkfield trainer to traffic to run direct from get him in trim after his wife’s diag- Joe Westgate Bishop’s Way to Fairmeadow, nosis with rheumatoid arthritis. with his wife is expected to cause delays to Amy is the daughter of West Far- Amy, who motorists and buses. Kevin leigh parish councillor Larry John- suffers from Root, general manager at son. Like Joe, Larry and his wife rheumatoid Maidstone, says the company Brenda were rocked to learn their arthritis has worked with Maidstone daughter had such a debilitating dis- happy if she can get up and of Larkfield, has just launched his council, KCC and Jackson ease at the age of only 33. Civil Engineering to ensure all Rheumatoid arthritis is an incur- dressed. The couple have moved boot camp business CYCLEmefit- lanes are kept open during able autoimmune disease, but drugs from Barming to Yalding to be closer ness, and is to help Joe with his train- peak periods, with closures can alleviate the symptoms. to Amy’s family and share a house ing free of charge. overnight. At a recent consultation, the cou- with her brother Stuart, who is also Joe has also signed up for the 54- Its 101 service between ple were devastated to learn that, de- able to help. mile London to Brighton ride with Maidstone and the Medway spite medication, the condition had Amy said: “Joe often works long Cllr Johnson. He said: “I am sure hours and I just can’t manage on my Towns will be forced to termi- already damaged Amy’s bones. after cycling 100 miles my joints and own. Fortunately, I have a brilliant, nate at, and start from, Pud- As well as inflamed joints, Amy body will ache and hurt in places I ding Lane and will not be able supportive family.” suffers from constant fatigue as well never knew existed, but it is no com- to serve the bus stop in Mill as anxiety and depression, all while Joe is taking part in the 2016 Pru- parison to the pain and hurt my wife Street or The Mall. Arriva will caring for the couple’s one-year old dential Ride London – a 100 -mile be placing regular posts on its son, Noah. route around London and Surrey on suffers everyday and the pain that Twitter and Facebook pages to Amy first showed signs of the ill- July 31 – to raise £1,000 for the Na- we suffer watching her hurting.” keep passengers up to date ness at Noah’s Christening, a year tional Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Donate through his Just Giving during the work, which is ex- ago. She has had to give up her ca- group, but that meant getting fit. page at pected to take until October. reer as a teacher and nowadays is Fortunately, Chris Mollison (35), www.justgiving.com/joewestgate. EASY TO SELL Turn your unwanted items into cash. • Cars • Bikes • Cycles • Toys • Fruniture • Videos • CDs • Garden Equipment • Musical Instruments • Clothing etc etc Easy to upload FREE Private Ads Online www.downsmail.co.uk

Malling June 2016 25 News downsmail.co.uk £5m spa hotel plan at risk PLANS to plough £6m into a spa hotel in Maidstone could be scuppered by a fire-ravaged former schoolhouse and the town’s conservation officer. Entrepreneur and actor Ciaran Maidstone, said: “One Maidstone O’Quigley, owner of Mu Mu’s in feels that this development would Week Street and a director of Mu deliver some much-needed en- Mu Experience Ltd, wants to build hancement to the area and that the Kent’s finest five-star spa hotel on proposal makes good use of cur- waste land at the lower end of rently disused and derelict proper- Brewer Street, behind St Francis’ ties.” RC Church. Parish priest Canon Luke Smith The 36-bedroomed hotel, com- says he believes the hotel would be plete with a luxury Roman swim- an asset to the town and that the ming pool, 10 treatment rooms, a agreement being drawn up be- “living wall” entrance and a Japan- tween Mr O’Quigley and the dio- ese garden, would have the finest cese would be beneficial to all Italian marble bathrooms and An artist’s impression of the Mu Mu Hotel, planned concerned. hand-made furniture and provide for Brewer Street, and Ciaran O’Quigley, right Planning committee chairman 20 jobs. Cllr Clive English and Cllr David The ambitious ideas for Hotel welcomed the scheme. He says the This would Naghi are among members who Mu Mu incorporate a 1930s piano derelict buildings are a constant plug that want to see the application dis- bar, a 100-cover restaurant, two li- worry to him, attracting drug-users gap and cussed in full committee, so that the brary-style lounge areas and a retro and vandals. bring clien- tourism and regeneration impact cinema. The project also includes Mr Parkinson has lodged his ob- tele who can be considered. the renovation of St Francis’ jection with the council, saying he would then Cllr Naghi said: "The scheme fits derelict church hall for community fears the development, which spend money in the town – not in in perfectly with the regeneration use. would encompass the site of a dis- the villages on the periphery.” of that end of Week street and The 48-year-old businessman has used dance studio, would harm the The proposed hotel would sit Maidstone East station. It will give been working on the concept with heritage of the county town. next to listed Grove House, the first a ‘wow’ factor and a much needed design consultants for almost three He considers the old school, permanent base for Catholic wor- point of interest to visitors who will years and has the support of the which was badly damaged by fire ship in Maidstone. However, the be stepping off the train to walk in church, his neighbours and several in September, to be a “non-desig- schoolhouse was added later and to town. " local councillors, as well as the nated heritage asset”. He says not carries no listing. Mr O’Quigley added: “It’s sim- town centre partnership One Maid- only should the application require Mr Parkinson said: “The loss of ple. We want to take dilapidated stone. listed building consent, but also ap- the original school building would, buildings that are a complete eye- However, Maidstone’s conserva- proval from English Heritage. in my opinion, cause harm to the sore and embarrassment to the tion officer Mike Parkinson is Mr O’Quigley says demolition of significance of the Grade II* listed county town and turn them in to against the demolition of the for- the schoolhouse is key to the proj- building of Grove House by re- this luxurious hotel and spa, which mer St Francis’ Church School even ect. “The site is landlocked without moving an important feature of the will help draw in people from all though many say it has become an the removal of this building,” he overall interest of the site as a com- over Europe. eyesore, having suffered neglect, said. “Tourism plays a massive part plex of Roman Catholic Church, “It will be five star luxury at three vandalism, fire, damp and dry rot. in the plans for Maidstone, yet presbytery and school, the earliest star prices. We are hoping to have Jason Howard at Trash or Treas- there is currently no high-end ac- example of such in Maidstone.” a bit of London chic here in Maid- ure, which backs onto the site, has commodation in the town centre. Andy Davy, chairman of One stone.”

THERE was a break-in at a home in Old rm reports Crime Barn Road, Leybourne. A building was damaged in Manley Neighbourhood Watch Boulevard, Snodland. A wallet and cards were taken from a ve- Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police hicle in Harvest Ridge, Leybourne. A vehicle was broken into in Lambe Close, Snodland. A lady was approached by a man stolen from a farm at Water Lane, West Snodland. in a supermarket car park in Lake Road, Peckham. Garden furniture was damaged in the Aylesford. A blue BMW, registration OW14 ***, was back garden of a home in Fielding Drive, When he had gone she realised that her stolen from a car park in Kings Hill Avenue, Larkfield, when a supermarket trolley was purse was missing. Kings Hill. thrown over the fence. The bodywork was damaged on a vehicle A shed at home in Church Road, Offham, A red VW Polo, registration VE07***, was in Hammonds Square, Snodland. was broken into but nothing appeared to stolen from Chippendale Close, Aylesford. There was an attempt to break in to a shed have been taken. Tools were stolen from a van in Taylor in Ryarsh Lane, West Malling. A rock was thrown at the window of a Road, Snodland. The door of a sports hall in New Hythe home in Lambourne Drive, Kings Hill, A grey Ford Transit van, registration GF09 Lane, Larkfield was damaged, activating an smashing it. P**, was stolen from Bull Lane, Aylesford. alarm, but no entry was gained. A locked bicycle was stolen from a car A black Vauxhall Astra was tampered The rear wheel arch on a Toyota Corolla park near the station in East Malling. with in Lee Road, Snodland, but no damage was damaged in Fartherwell Avenue, West was caused. Malling. A vehicle was broken into in Maidstone A black hybrid bicycle was stolen from the PROTECT Road, Aylesford. side of a house in Sherwood Avenue, Lark- The windscreen of a van was smashed in field. YOUR HOME Midsummer Road, Snodland but nothing A white VW Caddy NJ60 M** was stolen ALARMS FROM was taken. from Vigo Hill, Trottiscliffe. £495+VAT A vehicle was damaged in Quarry Wood, A rug was taken from the back of a horse Aylesford. in Birling Road, Larkfield. ALARMS & SECURITY LTD A vehicle was broken into in Ladds Lane, More than 50 bales of wood shavings were 01622 880751

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Malling June 2016 27 News downsmail.co.uk Henry Cooper’s ﬁght for life A BATTLING little boy by the name of Henry Cooper has defied all the odds to bring joy to his parents, who are now raising funds for the hospital which saved his life. Henry – still weighing a mere 5lb real roller-coaster journey, but we 5oz at almost five months old – has cannot praise the unit enough for the faced a tougher fight than his boxer care given during our time there.” namesake ever did, surviving more Although the NHS pays for med- than a dozen blood transfusions, col- ication and staffing at the Oliver lapsed lungs and a life-threatening Fisher Unit, all the highly-spe- blood disease. cialised and sophisticated equip- He is still on a constant supply of ment is funded by donations. oxygen, while his lungs recover The unit cares for about 1,000 sick from weeks of living on a ventilator. and premature babies each year and For his parents, it has been the Nicki and her family have decided most terrifying roller-coaster ride, to organise fund-raising activities to during which they thought they help the unit. The first will be a 5km would lose him on more than one run at Capstone Park, Gillingham, occasion. The couple have no idea on August 28. why Nicki went into early labour. Running alongside Nicki will be Henry was born at Pembury Hos- her mum Sharon Terry, Kevin’s pital 17 weeks prematurely, on De- mum Jeanette Cooper, from Forest cember 27, along with his twin Hill, Maidstone, Henry’s auntie Archie. Each of the boys weighed Elayne Fleming and cousins Faith, just 1lb 2oz, making them among the Paige and Summah, from Medway, tiniest tots ever to be born in Britain. along with many more friends. With two crash teams on hand Schoolteacher Nicki set an initial and more than 20 doctors and nurses target of £1,000 and is already well in the room, mum Nicki Cooper was over halfway there. However, now warned: “It will be a miracle if the that Kevin’s employers and col- babies survive. It will be a miracle if leagues at cloud service company they survive the birth, a miracle if Carrenza, in London, have agreed to they survive the transfer to the spe- make the unit the works’ charity, cial care baby unit and a miracle if they plan to set the target higher. they survive intensive care. That’s a Nicki said: “We were fortunate lot of miracles.” that Pembury is one of the hospitals Incredibly, both boys came into which fights to save babies born at the world kicking – but, barely big- 23 weeks; for many, 24 weeks is the ger than the palm of dad Kevin’s cut-off point. But without the round- hand, they were clearly very poorly. Kevin and Nicki Cooper with baby Henry the-clock care and support from the The twins were transferred by However, Henry battled on under ical treatments, including ventila- Oliver Fisher Unit, things could have Kent’s only special neonatal ambu- the watchful eye of the specialist tion, various types of breathing sup- turned out very differently. lance to the Oliver Fisher Special team, eventually coming home to port, X-rays and 12 blood “We lost Archie, which is very sad, Care Baby Unit at Medway Mar- Downswood the day before his transfusions. He fought off a series but neither twin should really have itime Hospital, where, sadly, Archie mum Nicki’s birthday, on April 18. of infections and Nicki said: “His survived, so our glass is definitely lost his fight for life the following During his 16 weeks in hospital, strength and resilience has been half full.” day. Henry endured a vast array of med- nothing short of incredible. It was a Jane Shotliff A story of miracle babies

AS well as setting up a Just Giving page, Nicki has created a website – miraclebabies.co.uk – to tell the story of Henry and Archie and to offer comfort and support to other families who might be in a similar situation. The website has attracted more than 1,200 visitors – from as far away as China, Australia and New Zealand. She said: “We were naively confident at the start, but after Archie died, it came home to us what a long way there was still to go.” Henry was a week old before his eyes opened Nicki said: “We can’t really thank the amazing and Nicki was at his bedside for 12 hours a day. team at the Oliver Fisher Unit enough for She was finally able to hold him at four weeks ensuring we brought home a healthy, happy old. However, he then developed sepsis, a little boy at the end our journey with them. potentially life-threatening blood disease, and “It was quite emotional saying goodbye to all his lung collapsed. the wonderful staff on the unit, but very exciting At 10 weeks old Henry still only weighed 1kg to be coming home after such a long journey.” but he was able to leave intensive care for the To read more about Henry’s journey, visit high dependency unit and at 13 weeks, the www.miraclebabies.co.uk. Henry, above, finally comes home, and at the family felt it was safe to finally go on a shopping To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/ age of five months old weighed 5lb 5oz. Left, trip to kit out the nursery for his homecoming. CooperFundraising Henry shortly after he was born

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Malling June 2016 29 downsmail.co.uk Comment Passionate support for Brexit NOTHING in the almost 20-year history not work and co-operate with them on signifi- of Downs Mail has aroused Maidstone pas- Mail cant issues. And all countries will want to con- sions more than EU referendum since I rea- Marks tinue to trade on sensible terms. I love Europe soned in March why I would vote Brexit. This but not the ramifications of an anti-democratic is our last chance to reflect reader views before DENNIS FOWLE President organisation which tries to control us at im- the big vote on June 23. [email protected] mense financial and cultural cost. OUR family too was inspired by the Downs Mrs. J. Russell, Tonbridge Mail to discuss Brexit and all three generations Britain are with us. I have a feeling they are. MY passions for Brexit grow stronger by the agreed we must vote Leave. We all suffer in M, Reed, Walderslade day. I see June 23 as our Independence Day. Maidstone by massive population growth and I USED to travel out of rush hours to do my serious deterioration in services and lack of in- business in Maidstone. Now I despair because Unpredictable to the end frastructure. We too have an infant denied a the jams so often last most of the day. And ex- place in three schools of choice and facing a perts warn me with all the housing planned MAIDSTONE Borough Council elections nightmare and costly journey. Maidstone will just grind to a halt. It is almost remained predictably unpredictable until the P.B., Maidstone impossible to fix timed business appointments very last vote was counted in Coxheath and Hunton ward – giving LibDems’ Emily Fermor THE Government has broken its green belt in town. And yesterday I requested a doctor’s appointment and it is four weeks away. What (23) a single vote victory over Conservatives’ pledges and insisted on appalling urban Ron Leagas. sprawl. Much of this is down to uncontrolled will happen for my children and grandchildren if we stay in the EU? Brian Coe – by email The Lib Dems, UKIP and Labour ended the immigration. The impact on our lovely Maid- day with smiles. The Tories needed probably stone area and pressure on services are im- THE Prime Minister cannot frighten us in to to gain one seat for overall control. By losing mense. And if we vote to Remain in the EU it continuing with the frightening consequences two to the Lib Dems (22 seats) they remain the will get much worse. The National Trust is on of remaining in the EU. We have to leave to largest party (23 of the 55 councillors) but their the ball – and so must be all of us. stand a real chance of regaining the Britain we influence on the council is diminished. Mrs B. Chalmers, Maidstone want and avoid a growth in the horrors we cur- Once again, Maidstone Lib Dems punched IT SEEMS to me only voters (and foreigners) rently endure. We know they will get much above their weight, but politicians from all par- who want us to remain in Europe are the priv- worse by retaining membership of this unde- ties offered other reasons. They said the EU ileged protecting personal or business interests. mocratic, expensive and troubled club. vote dominated on the doorsteps and felt the They are protected from the awful impacts of T Patel , Maidstone vicious split in the Conservative party nation- the EU so damaging to the lives of the rest of I AGREE with readers in May Downs Mail – ally, plus a loss of popularity for Prime Minis- us. I meet hardly a Maidstone resident who leaving the awful EU does not mean we are ter David Cameron helped both UKIP and Lib will vote to Remain and I trust the rest in leaving our many European friends and will Dems locally.

Workers safer in the EU is the EU that has enshrined the right to about immigration. The last figures for equal pay for equal work for men and immigration I saw gave a net figure of AS THE EU referendum draws ever closer, women. Similarly, it’s European legislation 300,000 per annum. Half that figure was I will be campaigning relentlessly to that protects us from workplace for non-EU migrants, who are either ensure voters know exactly how positive discrimination on the grounds of age, refugees or economic migrants. Our the European Union's influence has been sexual orientation or religion. government could stop this immigration for workers’ rights in the UK. As a worker in the South East, I would tomorrow, but it doesn't. Unfortunately, we’re not going to hear feel safer knowing that there is EU Stopping or slowing this immigration is these arguments from David Cameron. In legislation safeguarding my basic rights, harder than you think. It is a UK fact, with the Trade Union bill on the table, regardless of the party in power in government issue, not an EU one. What it is safe to assume he sees these workers’ Westminster. That’s one of the reasons about the other half? They come following safeguards as a continental inconvenience, why I'm campaigning for Britain to the jobs, because that’s part of being in the in spite of his wish for the UK to remain in Remain in the EU. single market. You can't have a single the EU. Keith Taylor, Green Party MEP for the market without the free movement of We've heard how the free movement of South East, European Parliament, Brussels capital and labour. people across the continent helps ensure If people are thinking of voting Leave to we're able to holiday with ease in Spain, Immigration not the issue reduce immigration, are they sure they are France, Germany, and all over mainland I HAVE been canvassing on the EU going to get that? I feel it is unlikely. Europe, completely visa-free. What we’ve referendum for the last two weekends and Michael Gove says leave the EU and not heard enough about, perhaps, is how feel that Dennis Fowle’s views and the single market, but he is the only one the fundamental right to a paid holiday correspondence he chose to use in his saying it because the single market was from work is protected by the EU. column do not reflect the debate that is our idea and we do very well out of it. It is EU legislation, agreed with our currently happening. If we were out of the single market we European partners, that also gives us I have found that the Leaves and could still buy BMW cars and Bosch tools, maternity and paternity rights at work. Remains are very even, with the “don't but the single market would become a Additionally, it is the laws we created, knows” and “don't cares” being in the vast more difficult place for UK plants like with trade unions and alongside our majority. My experience seems to be borne Toyota, Mini and their suppliers to sell European neighbours, that give us our out in the local and national opinion polls. their products and in years to come they robust health and safety rules. Rules which Mr Fowle’s correspondents seem to would probably move their plants inside go a long way in reducing injuries and think this is a referendum about the single market to avoid the tariffs. deaths. immigration – it’s not, it’s about our place Would the older generation care? Maybe As the fight for gender equality in Europe. not, but the younger generation does care continues, It's also important to note that it However, a lot of people are talking and it's not a surprise that younger people Contact our team ... Simon Finlay Diane Nicholls Jane Shotliff Dawn Kingsford Editor Assistant editor Journalist Journalist simon.fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233 01622 734735 ext 233

30 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk

tend towards Remain, because they have are stronger fighting cross-border global problem within the town and villages like Comment more to gain. problems like climate change and Leeds and Langley. There even seems to We are pensioners who have worked terrorism. It is by no means perfect, but be enough farmland to do it without hard and paid our dues. The money we working together we have delivered disrupting residential areas. paid in has gone to pay the previous decades of peace and prosperity and It is up to the KCC to organise and fund generation's pensions. It's nice to think the created the world's largest ever trading this and not put it off for another 44 years. free movement of labour is paying its area, benefiting local businesses across The longer it takes the more difficult and share for our pensions. Maidstone and our county. disruptive it will be. The borough council Now is the time for the younger Cllr Emily Fermor has stopped granting planning permission generation's voice to be heard, so I hope Borough Councillor, Coxheath & Hunton south of Maidstone to avoid adding to the they vote on June 23. traffic congestion. Too lile too late. Bill Banks, via email Let us see how the new gyratory system Another great season improves things. If not, would the money The end for Cameron? AS A local councillor, I would just like to have been beer spent on a bypass? I AM a definite Leave voter, but a Tory congratulate everyone connected to Christopher Smith, via email supporter too. I can see trouble ahead for Maidstone United for yet another very Prime Minister David Cameron. successful season. He took a gamble on the rise of UKIP by The club has done so well since coming Great care at hospital calling the referendum in the first place back home to Maidstone and I feel the DUE to all the bad press Maidstone but must have felt sure he could win. He clubs success has put Maidstone itself back Hospital gets, I would just like to tell you knows if he loses, he is out, no question. on the map. I am sure that I and the people what fantastic care I received at Maidstone But if he wins, he is left with the party of Maidstone will be wishing the club Hospital in the cardiac unit and Culpepper split over the single most toxic issue even more success next season now that ward after I had a heart aack recently. possible: Europe. He’ll have to go. Maybe Maidstone United have won deserved The care I received whilst in hospital, not immediately but sometime soon. promotion to the National League. COYS. and at home, by the cardiac nurses could And that leaves us with another Cllr David Naghi, Maidstone not have been beered anywhere else. scramble to find someone who can reunite Jill Wellbelove, via email the party after the divisions over Europe. Let’s hope they don’t choose someone like Link road poorly planned John Major for he was the kiss of death. REGARDING the “link road” article in the Liering a disgrace The smart money seems to be on Boris May edition of Downs Mail, I make some REFERENCE Downs Mail May edition, Johnson, whose charisma and ambition are observations. regarding Terance Turner’s praise for the not in doubt. But I’m not sure. The lustre The traffic problems within Maidstone parish council and the state of the around the jovial fellow seems to be fading are now at the same level as Guildford 35 Madginford shop fronts. somewhat. years ago. Remember leaving home at 3am Either Mr Turner or the council cannot Perhaps the party should been looking then going to the West Country to get have looked beyond the immediate shop to the backbenches for its next leader. through Guilford before it became blocked fronts. If they had, they would have seen Anyone got any suggestions? with traffic? Well, Maidstone is the new just how unswept are the guers P Warren, via email Guildford. thereabouts. The build-up of mess plus The problem is due to poor planning thousands of cigaree bus demonstrates Let’s get it over with and under-investment in the county town. how infrequently it is swept. PERHAPS I am in a minority, but I am The town has A229, A249, A20, A26 and local It’s not the first time that I have wrien totally fed up with listening to the EU roads all needing to enter the town to access to complain of this unsightly shortfall and debate and the sooner the blasted thing is their desired destination. The gyratory system it is no use complaining that cars are out of the way the beer, in my view. The is based on a roundabout that works so poorly always parked thereabouts. uncertainty of a possible Brexit is probably that traffic lights are needed. If only the cleansing department could causing more damage than we realise as The southern approach roads from get its finger out and learn when the area many businesses seem to have put Suon Road and Loose Road had a when the area is not so congested, because everything on hold while the issue is still roundabout but this was replaced with it is not always congested. to be resolved. traffic lights and nothing was done to Roy F Wilsher, Blenheim Close, Bearsted All my instincts are to say that we remove the problem. should leave, as the EU appears to be a What is the problem here? massive club for people with their own It seems simple to me. Two busy A roads Dog owners a menace vested interests but lile interest in the joining together into Loose Road in two lanes. But then squeeze all the traffic into I AM fully aware that the vast majority of people to whom their rules will eventually dog owners love and care for their dogs, affect. one lane at Armstrong Road – not a roundabout in site. train them and keep them under control, Sadly, I can’t help thinking that, if the Why are the A roads so busy? Because clean up after them and dispose of their polling is broadly correct and 30 per cent all the through traffic with a destination waste properly. However, there are or so remain to be convinced one way or other than Maidstone has no option but to irresponsible dog owners who – when the another, the vote is more than likely to use the A roads provided, that lead to the clocks go back – sneak out under the cover swing towards remain as undecided voters gyratory in the town centre. of darkness and allow their dogs to poop are inclined to stick with the status quo Creating local rat runs through housing around the village and leave the mess rather than take a leap into the unknown. estates is not going to make the problem where it lands. Often an unsuspected And that will be a terrible shame and a go away. It will just increase risk and pedestrian will tread in it. Disgusting. golden opportunity gone to throw off the disturbance in housing areas that should Others allow their dogs to run free, shackles of an organisation so vast and so be free of through traffic. This is where our chase other dogs, jump up at people going enmeshed with its own self-interest. kids play! for a quiet walk and sniff anybody who Another referendum is highly unlikely to The M20 acts as a bypass for half the happens to be passing – usually in areas come along again any time soon. So make town, but traffic that need to cross the where they are not wanted – and they your vote count. river and go south of Maidstone is traumatise children and adults who are Phil Simms, via email bringing the county town to its knees. afraid of dogs. A Maidstone bypass would allow the In Mote Park, where I often walk, dogs Why we’re stronger as one local traffic in the town to move more are a menace, running all over the place I RESPECT the views of local residents freely by keeping the through traffic out of and geing under my feet. I have also and encourage them to exercise their the town. But only if it is planned and come close to tripping over those stupid decision at the ballot box on June 23, for implemented with care and thought for extending leads. what will be I'm sure a very personal the future. Rat runs are not the answer. The law is, however, on our side and choice. For me, personally, there is a A dual carriageway bypass from M20 everyone should make themselves aware positive, patriotic case to be made for why Leeds via Langley, Loose, Barming and of the rules. Britain is beer off in Europe. Together we finishing at the M20 will alleviate the J Richards, The Landway, Bearsted

Malling June 2016 31 downsmail.co.uk Rt Reverend Richard Third Harry ‘Obie’ Makepeace sporting events. He also met the Queen Obituaries Mother on one occasion. THE Right Reverend Richard Third (89) THE funeral of Harry “Obie” Makepeace Ray joined the Kent Messenger as a served as Bishop of Maidstone from 1976 to (58), of Courtenay Road, Maidstone made typeseer but his knowledge of sports and 1980. local news. his other skills soon won him work as a He had a lengthy career within the Horse-drawn carriages and a refuse lorry journalist. Church of England that also saw him serve adorned with flowers all joined the Ray leaves sisters Debbie and Jean and as vicar of Sheerness from 1959 to 1967 and procession to St Martin’s Church in brother David. vicar of Orpington. Shepway in tribute to Known to many as “Dick”, the married the refuse collector father of two retired to Somerset but kept on who had worked in Tony Hyde working within the diocese of Bath and Maidstone for 42 PC Tony Hyde (64) covered the Farleighs Wells, where he ministered as an assistant years. when Kent Police allocated policemen to bishop. Harry began work the rural parishes and was very popular. The Diocese of Canterbury praised the Rt for Maidstone After retirement, he moved abroad and Rev Third as a man who “although small of Borough Council at was subsequently diagnosed with stature had a big heart” and noted the “care the age of 16 and pancreatic cancer. He is survived by wife and sensitivity” that marked his ministry. continued in refuse Jackie, daughter Charloe, mother Joan Amongst a range of roles the former collection when Biffa and sister Joanne. bishop carried out within the church, he took over the work some years later. served as chaplain to the Queen Mother in Harry was known as a fundraiser for the Dave Sargeant her role as Lord Warden of the Cinque Air Ambulance Trust, regularly raising Ports. It has been reported that when he told sums of £1,000. At Christmas, he would MAIDSTONE Borough Councillor Dave the Queen Mother of his intention to stand dress as Father Christmas and stand by his Sargeant (77) has died suddenly at down from this role she told him that if she makeshift groo collecting cash and giving Maidstone Hospital. could continue working at her age, then so sweets to children. He was especially The UKIP member of Westmoreland could he. After this, Rt Rev Third did decide motivated to help the charity after the air Road, Shepway, was a well-liked and to continue. ambulance was summoned to the admired man, not least by council He as an alumnus of Cambridge premature birth of his granddaughter colleagues. University and Lincoln Theological College Bethany. Fran Wilson, leader of the borough and a former cox of the Cambridge Rowing Harry’s dustbin rounds started in Tovil, council, said: “Cllr Sargeant was passionate Team. His funeral took place in Edinburgh. but over the years he collected bins in an about the people and communities he area encompassing Nelestead, Coxheath, represented and was a hard-working and Yalding and Marden. enthusiastic member of the council.” Barry Clarke Originally from London, Harry moved to Fellow UKIP councillor Eddie Powell BARRY George William Clarke BEM (80) Maidstone as a teenager and was stuck with said: “He was a quite amazing person. I was lived in Barming from 1973 and first moved the nickname Obie, which was coined by his blown away by the number of people whose to the Maidstone area when he joined the brother. lives he touched.” Royal Engineers in 1951. Born in Flore, Harry was married to his childhood Cllr Sargeant was elected in May 2014 to Northamptonshire, Barry was the son of a sweetheart Linda. He leaves his wife, four the council as one of two members for serving officer in the Royal Horse Artillery. brothers, two sisters, six sons, seven Shepway south and served diligently on His army career took him to places grandchildren, four step-grandchildren and several commiees. including Germany, British Honduras a great grandson. It is understood in Maidstone political (now Belize) and Christmas Island and also circles that he was considering contesting a into the Suez campaign of 1956. Joyce Wickwar local division of Kent County Council at the Whilst serving in British Honduras in KCC elections next year. 1961, Barry was involved in coping with the THE death has been announced of Joyce Yorkshire-born Cllr Sargeant had the effects of the six-day Hurricane Haie; a Edith Wickwar (87). Born Joyce Haisman distinction of being the first-ever UKIP storm which left 400 dead and widespread she was in charge of the cooking at St James member of the borough council and was devastation. His work earned him the the Great C of E Infant School in East also the leader of the UKIP group. British Empire Medal for outstanding Malling for many years. He was a fine footballer and cricketer in services. Joyce, who made her home in East his youth. He played for Sheffield On leaving the army in 1974, Barry went Malling, was married to John and was a Wednesday’s junior team and represented in to marine insurance surveying, founding mother and grandmother. More recently, Yorkshire cricket at youth level. his own business, BCS, in Sheerness she lived at Cedardale Residential Home on Cllr Sargeant was a member of the Vine Barry was married to Noreen for 56 years Queens Road, Maidstone. Church in Maidstone, known for greeting and father to Melanie and Simon. Widowed 30 years ago, Joyce leaves her worshippers at the door and for his good family. Simon, who runs Revolution Hairdressing singing voice. in Vinters Park, said: “My father’s essence Family, local politics, UKIP activities and was his ability to make people laugh and Ray Edwards the church took up a lot of his spare time, but he also had passions for photography, share his smile. He’d come into my salon THE death has been announced of Ray and just start talking to customers. He got birdwatching and writing poetry. Edwards (66), who lived in Leybourne for He is survived by his wife June, daughters on with anyone and his qualities to make 32 years and was known for his 25-year people laugh and smile were shared with Ruth and Heather and his grandchildren involvement with the Kent Messenger Megan and James. his family, including his grandchildren. newspaper group. “Loads of my customers have sent cards Ray was most recently a local corre- after his death, which is a measure of how spondent for Leybourne and West Malling. The Stone Shop many people knew and liked him. He left His previous work for the group included the forces as an RSM Warrant Officer, but contributions for its What’s On section. Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, was often invited to events in the officers’ Born in Wandsworth, Ray moved to lettered and installed anywhere. mess because many higher ranks involved Welling as a boy and suffered with TB, Inscriptions added to existing memorials him all the time in what they were doing. which left him in hospital for two years. At Renovations and memorial “As a child, my friends included the 15, he became a messenger boy for the cleaning children of high-ranking officers; not a usual London based Extel operation but was soon The Stone Shop situation for children of lower ranking invited to join their sports department, Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. officers.” distributing information to being offices Barry leaves his wife, children and up and down the UK and aending many 01622 726633 grandchildren Connor and Isla.

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

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aihCouncils Parish Addington Officers elected Cllr Stephen MacDonald- Home agreed for Little Gem Gay was elected as chairman and Cllr IT looks like The Little Gem was Annee Holmes was elected as vice- the last pint built in 1106 and chairman. may have played host to morris Angel Inn County Cllr Sarah Hohler said been pulled in dancers, ramblers and she and Borough Cllrs Ann Kemp and what was once visitors to the Friars. It Mahew Balfour were due to meet Mr Britain’s small- closed in 2010. March, manager of the Angel Inn. Mr March est pub. Mr Callaghan’s appli- has asked for the meeting to discuss the The owner cation also sought listed approved proposal for parking restrictions of The Little building consent to re- at the junctions of Park Road and Millhouse Gem in Ayles- place the window and Lane with Troiscliffe Road. Tonbridge & ford has been paint the property exte- Malling Council had confirmed that the granted plan- rior. formal consultation had been very thorough ning permis- Locals claim the and that officers had visited the area to sion by building is too impor- consider the design of the restrictions. Tonbridge and tant to lose and should Police report PCSO Ross MacMillan had Malling council be preserved. advised the clerk that he would put warning to turn the tiny Some would like to notices on any cars he saw blocking the hostelry into a one-bedroom home. see it used as a social enterprise and commu- pavements in Addington. A garage at Aldon James Callaghan, who lives in Middlesex nity facility but no-one has yet been prepared Lane and three sheds at Troiscliffe School and owns the adjoining property, applied for to come up with a viable plan or the cash. had been broken into and items were taken. planning consent after a six-year search for a The council considered numerous objec- A car had been set alight in Beech Road. new pub landlord failed. The pub was on the tions to the application, including one from Defibrillator Both of the defibrillators had market with an asking price of £230,000. John Carpenter, who wrote: “This pub is a been checked and an update provided. Mr Callaghan obtained planning permis- grade two listed building of great historical in- Seven Mile Lane Kent County Council had sion to develop the neighbouring property, terest, once proudly promoted as the smallest not yet advised when the proposed remedial once a business centre, into eight homes in pub in Kent. It once lived up to its name and, action would take place for the approach 2012. with sympathetic ownership and manage- lanes to the roundabout to be reduced on the An online petition to save the 12th century ment, could do so again.” A20 to a single lane to try to avoid conflict pub attracted more than 4,500 signatures – Allan Reid, who lives in the High Street, said: on the roundabout. but no buyers. Mr Callaghan says he is still “This property with residential planning per- Speedwatch A number of vehicles were open to offers, but the grade two listed prop- mission would perhaps treble its value. How- spoed speeding during a session that erty is now in need of significant repair. ever, the loss to the community would be morning. No more volunteers had come forward despite a recent plea in The Pilgrims. Trees at Troiscliffe Road The clerk was to financially viable. All Saints’ Church Recreation ground RoSPA was due to ask that the condition of the trees on the heritage weekend would be the village inspect the playground in June. Cllr Bailey highway verge bordering the golf club be celebration, to which the parish council had suggested the recreation commiee assessed. contributed. considered buying some second-hand play Protecting trees Councillors had met with Thames Crossing Cllrs Grimme and Ron equipment which KCC was considering tree warden Neil Moulton for a walk around Nudd had considered the options and removing from schools that had closed. Cllr the village. He had pointed out some trees of completed the questionnaire. They had Peter Robinson said there could be problems special interest and agreed to liaise with decided option C would be the best overall. with buying second-hand equipment. TMBC about the possibility of preservation Retirement Members were upset to learn Cable installation The clerk was still orders on these trees. that Cllr Nudd had resigned for health waiting for a risk assessment from UK Damage to Green The clerk had reported reasons and he was thanked for his Power Networks on how they proposed to damage done during the recent roadworks contribution over the past nine years. A install a low voltage underground cable of to KCC, which was waiting for a response vacancy notice had been sent to Tonbridge about 3m at the top of the trackway around from UK Power Networks about their plans and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) and the village green. to resolve the situation. The clerk was asked posted on the noticeboard and website. Queen’s birthday Members were delighted to find out from the management company Highways Cllr Grimme had contacted with the turnout for the lighting of the why and when the locking post which used Kent Highways about access to Birling Road beacon to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday. to be on the trackway had been removed. from the A228 roundabout. The junction was The clerk was to write and thank the often blocked at peak times by vehicles volunteers who organised the lighting of the coming from Kings Hill and the diversion beacon and the bell ringers at St Margaret’s Aylesford due to the roadworks at J4 would make Church. Crime report The spate of thefts in things worse. A traffic engineer would be Kent Men of Trees It was resolved to enter Mackenders Lane was discussed. It was monitoring traffic flow. Cllr Helen Walker the Trees in the Village competition for an agreed that the clerk should discuss the said the road surface around the traffic administration fee of £10. maer with the PCSO and the representative calming in Bull Road was crumbling. Highways Branches blocking the pavement of residents. Village hall The village hall commiee were on the A20 near Hernwell Farm had been having plans drawn up and were seeking cleared. The street name sign for The quotes for the refurbishment of the village Chestnuts needed repairing and had been Birling hall including roof insulation and a new reported to KCC. Branches needed clearing kitchen, with costs likely to be £12,000- by KCC from Troiscliffe Road. Branches Emergency plan Cllr Colin Grimme 14,000. They were hoping the work would had been cleared from Plowenders lay-by. suggested that the exact locations of the salt be carried out between July and September. Vehicles blocking the footpath next to bins be added to the plan. Footpath Cllr Jacquie Westwood said one of Mayfield Farm/Ivanhoe and on the footpath HGV parking Kent Highways had looked at next to the A20 west of Clearway had been the site in Birling Road and Cllr Sarah the steps on the footpath to Church Field reported to the PCSO. Hohler said she would be prepared to fund was damaged. A20 sign The golf club had taken down its bollards. She said she had seen a lorry marketing sign but this had been replaced parked in Birling Road on her way to the by a sign advertising a local football club meeting. East Peckham and the verge had been damaged. Queen’s birthday Cllr Guy Nevill said that Billy Can Awards Mr and Mrs Boyle Speed signs One of the national speed limit although Birling owned the beacon, it was presented the Billy Can Awards which are signs was missing from Church Road and on Snodland land and could not be seen given each year in recognition of the the speed signs at St Vincent’s Lane had from the village. Options for different types recipients’ efforts for the community. The been turned around and were facing the of beacons and a bonfire were discussed and 2016 awards went to Tony White of East wrong way. it was decided neither was practical or Peckham Boys Brigade, and Barbara Breden.

40 Malling June 2016 downsmail.co.uk

Mr White was also presented with a garden plant and Mr White with a bole of wine. Councils Parish Parish award The Rev Sue Morrell Community award presented the Parish Council Community FORMER chairman Mike Rowe was chosen by Engagement Shield to Carol Hodgson who Offham Parish Council to receive the Kent Associa- also received a garden plant. tion of Local Councils’ Community Award. KALC award The KALC Community Having lived in the village for 30 years, he was Engagement Certificate was presented to also a magistrate and chairman of the bench, an Brookside Garden Centre for its charitable advisor with Citizens Advice, churchwarden and work over the years and for its donations member of the parochial church council and the which had helped numerous village “go-to” man for historical information about the organisations. Terry Shead accepted the area. award on behalf of his family and staff at the He has an extensive picture archive of Offham garden centre. and helps judge the village photo competition every Surgery Sarah Baker of Woodlands Health year and is also chairman of the Offham Society Centre and Ian Ayres, NHS Clinical and technical advisor for events in the village hall. Commissioning Group answered questions He thanked the parish council and said that regarding the future of East Peckham Offham was a wonderful community and it was a Surgery. Ms Baker said the health centre was joy for himself and his wife to be involved for 40 fully commied to working with the parish years. council to retain the surgery. Mr Ayres He received the award at the annual parish meet- stated that in his opinion, East Peckham ing. needed its surgery and that he would do all he could to ensure its future. He also stated that he was delighted to be working with was elected as vice-chairman. box on Chapel Street and what to call it. The such a pro-active parish council. Speedwatch County Cllr Sarah Hohler had entries were being considered. Question time Peter Street congratulated the agreed to fund the Speedwatch equipment parish council for organising an excellent for the village. Councillors were keen to set annual meeting and gave a vote of thanks to up some dates to start operating. Troiscliffe the council members and the clerk, which Lorries It had been reported that lorries Officers elected Cllr Richard Wallis was was met with a round of applause. Mr Street were reversing out of Church Road when elected chairman and Cllr David Jones as said the village should be particularly proud they found they could not get under the vice-chairman. of the council’s work in resisting the closure railway bridge. This had been reported to Police report A garage had been broken into of the East Peckham surgery. KCC Highways. Church Farm had already at a home in Aldon Lane, Addington. Sheds put signs up warning drivers of the low were broken into at Troiscliffe school and a bridge and had given maps to all drivers car had been set alight in Beech Road. and companies they use. Further signs were Kings Hill Defibrillator The clerk had offered to find suggested on the A20. Officers elected Cllr Tony Pey was elected out if a community responder in Addington Traffic order A traffic order was suggested as chairman of the parish council and Cllr would be willing to hold an awareness for Church Road. Members approved of the Dave Hurring was appointed as vice- session on how to use the defibrillator. extended zigzag lines near the school but chairman. Cllr Waller was thanked for his Queen’s birthday Members were delighted would prefer them to be longer, to create a work as chairman for the past three years with the turnout for the lighting of the and Cllr Cassidy was thanked for his work passing place in Church Road. Proposed yellow lines were of no use as cars did not beacon to mark the Queen’s birthday. The as vice-chairman for the past four years. chairman thanked members for their help in Sports Park Play Area It was resolved that park on the side of the road to be painted. Environmental Enhancement scheme This organising the event. Ian Fern was thanked this be dealt with by the sports park for providing the champagne. commiee. On completion of the play area, received overwhelming support at the Taylors Lane KCC was drafting a proposal the day-to-day running issues will be dealt annual parish meeting, which had been for priority signing which would be used to with by the planning, highways and aended by more than 120 people. There start the consultation. environment commiee. was one vote against the scheme and about Village sign Allotment site There was an update 10 abstentions. Final details were being Work to install the sign which regarding the water leak at the allotment site discussed with KCC and it was hoped work had been located at the duck pond had been at Kings Hill. Due to the urgency of the would start in the summer. delayed but was due to take place. work the CEO had appointed contractors Awards The Kent Association of Local Power supply The clerk was to contact under her delegated powers. Councils community award was presented UKPN to enquire about a power supply to to Mike Rowe. The Oam Parish Council the Christmas Tree. UKPN would be able to Award was presented to Stewart Bes at the assess the current arrangement and advise Mereworth annual meeting and to Paul Nelson in on a power supply for the tree. Potholes There were two potholes in the lay- Police report PCSOs Toni Mahews and February. He died a short while later and Kim Hockey provided the crime figures for would be missed in the village. by next to the parish council noticeboard. the year. There had been 32 incidents, Village calendars The 2017 calendars were Works were programmed. Potholes were including thefts from garages, burglaries, on sale from Cllr Wendy Williams at £5 each. also reported in Ford Lane and Vigo Hill. and leaving without paying (restaurants and Street signs The clerk had reported that the garages). The police were working to sign at Taylors Lane and The Pilgrims had improve parking at the school, although it Ryarsh lost some of its leers. The Give way sign at was difficult to do anything about Officers Cllr Storey was re-elected as chair Church Lane also needed aention. inconsiderate parking. and Cllr Emson was re-elected as vice-chair Playground The contractor had revised his Hedges Mrs Regan said she would like to at the annual meeting. quote for replacing six posts around the reinstate hedges and fences alongside land Funding change Tonbridge and Malling perimeter fencing of the play area. A she farmed in Beech Road as several passing council was consulting on various proposals decision to accept the quote of £421.20 was places had been created by drivers which which would affect the parish councils, such ratified. The contractor would also level the could encourage rat-running and flytipping. as the removal of council tax support grant. memorial bench next to the play area. There were no objections. It was expected that any cuts from TMBC Allotments The clerk and the chairman had Neighbourhood Watch The year had been would be passed on to residents through the met with the contractor to discuss the quiet compared with last year’s spate of parish precept. installation of chestnut fencing for the burglaries in the area. Summer fete More than 60 stalls had boundary with Darren’s Meadow. As there booked for the fete on June 18. was no definitive boundary the fence would Phone box competition Councillors were be erected on the edge of the hardcore Oam very pleased with the number and quality of driveway. A decision to accept a quote of Officers elected Cllr David Frankling was entries from Ryarsh Primary School in a £1,065 to clear the vegetation and install re-elected as chairman and Cllr Barry Oliver competition to decide how to use the phone chestnut fencing was ratified.

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