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Maidstone East Edition & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper Maidstone Weald Edition downsmail.co.uk FREEMaidstone & Malling’s October 2017 No.No. 246 1 newspaper

NewsFREE OctoberPanto 2019 ahoy! Kate,No. 107,270 dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the to Nhase diedws aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. Sun and stars David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were Vicar’s family date national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy lGodmother),aunch formerpa EastEndernto Ste- WMP’sEALD vLocalicar, the PlanRev Fio bidna TfanHE BoothHazl (Princeitt The aCharming),tre used t Eliza-he HHELENasket tWhately, has ma askedrried htheer son lbethast o f t Brighthe sum m (Cinderella),er sunshine… Craigto Egovernmentdward in a tosp ehaltcia lthe lAndersonaunch its C (Buttons)hristmas and,pant o pictured,. cborough’shurch cer housingemony. scheme. 43 StephenThe Ea r Richardsl Street v andenu Adame cho s Bor-e Kzoneent (UglyLife Sisters)to sh o. w case this Thief found in bin yeaTheyr’s s werepecta greetedcular B byea pupilsuty an fromd Plans for Dr Nigel South Borough Primary School and A car thief tried to the Beast. Topping the bill will THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto escape from police by be former X-Factor finalist and will walk the Grand runs from December 1-31. For tick- hiding in a compost bin. 6 reality TV star Jake Canyon for charity. 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. 23 Quickenden. Land for homes LJasonANDOW DonovanNERS have be edaten asked tTHEo se formerll land Neighboursfor a mas sstarive bringshousing dhisev showelop mtoe thent Hazlittat Len ham 18 ACCTVrson a call„ac ink r aui bidns HTheatreeath. next May. 16 Tax bills set to rise TAXPAYERS face a hike in their bills next year, Maidstone wtoa stoprdrob fly-tippinge business Borough Council has admitted. 24 CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a A BUSINESS owner has been forced to start again from scratch after Obituaries 26 acountryrsonists road burn havet his been prem madeises a bynd the all local his e boroughquipme councillor.nt to a cinder. Parish Councils CBurberryraig Judg Lane,e (34), nearof Kin Leedsgswoo andd, anearby,ge of h moreis bu thansines as, yearMr afterJudge it unlicensedequipment wastehe rel carriers,ies on to but ma be-ke 28-29 Broomfield, has been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. lieves the cost to small firms of dis- has been running said: “We can’t even recover a sin- his bespoke products. ObituariesTHE Shop on the Green in C ha32rt Wwasteardro dumpersbes for n forine years, year buts ou int o re-f gleThe scr churchew. No carthin parkg. I a hasm j alsoust d seenev- posingHe sa ofys constructionpolice were a wasteble to at re a- Sutton has had to close for staff cent months, the problem has be- many instances of illegal dumping. transfer station is proving a deter- his base on an industrial unit off astated." cover a computer hard drive, but holidays; Coxheath Parish Council come more acute. But it is a problem in many rural rent that is costing councils more. Gravelly Bottom Road. Mr Judge, a married father of were unable to retrieve CCTV im- hParishas agre eCouncilsd to buy a de fibr34-35illator, Construction waste, rubble, hard areas including Langley, Cllr Fort made her remarks as agery from it. Other premises and which will be sited outside the core,But windowswhen cr andimin householdals broke fur-in tandhree Kingswood.girls, believ Wateres the Lanethieve ins one of the borough’s closest trans- ASH dieback has been discovered in homes along Gravelly Bottom Londis store; CCTV is now dnitureuring isth lefte ea illegallyrly hour –soften of Se strewnptem- bBearstedurned do andwn h Pilgrimsis premis Wayes, w havehere fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in ; Road may have clear images of operational at Langley Village biner the 14, middlethey sto ofle the a K road.awasaki mo- halsois te beenam b targeteduilt ward recently.robes and had bridge Wells, announced it will be village fete stall- the vehicle, thought to be a pick- Hall; Marden Parish Council has torCllrcycl Gille an Fortd po said:ssibl “Everyy somemonth tools recLastently year, cons Maidstonetructed sho Boroughwroom closed for 10 weeks. holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has resigned;asked Ma iyellowdstone lines to c oarensi dneededer wweithare a co havingmbined toilets, estima sinksted to andtal dCouncilisplays cleared, to dest 911roy cases CCT ofV. fly-tip- upShe, dr added:iving to “Ifwa yourds h gois p alongremis thees. forins tBuffkynalling cl eWay,an a iOthamr sensor, sto; allow oconstructionf just £2,000. waste dumped in the pingThe and bus thisines yearsman more, who than is co 163n- lineA ofnu increasingmber of ot fines,her u theynits c havelose t too busesvillage throughrs will be Imperial quizzed aPark;bou trub- the village,Everyth specificallying else, inc inlud Burberrying ex- chaveerned been he w recordedas under-i sincensure April.d, es- beKen enforced.t Wardrob Aes reductionwere also r inaid theed. bishviab ili binsty o f inth e the sports field in pLane,ensiv wheree cutte wers a arend nowequi thinkingpment, tTheimat approachinges he is about darker £150,00 evenings0 out of chargeAn un orocc offeringupied c itar freeavan may onhave site Kingswood are to be moved over to sofeve installingn ready-m camerasade piec ones, privateoffice pwillock promptet. a rise in illegal tipping. thehad desired a pair o similarf wellie effect.”s and a candle coffee morning, which has been the picnic area and rear exit. aland,nd al tol h overseeis raw m theate problemrials, wer area.”e to- TCllrhe Fortfire w welcomedas so inte ans jointe it b initia-uck- taAke three-monthlyn from it. litter pick on the poorly attended recently. talAly recentdestroy evented. in Burberry Lane ltiveed th bye r theoof, Environmentcrumbled soli Agencyd brick mile-longMr Judg stretche, who ofset road up h throughis busi- CrimeCrime Reports Reports 3529 sawSta and caravaning in fr burnedont of t outhe w whilereck- a wandalls the an Driverd melt anded th Vehiclee speci Stan-alist Leedsness ag villageed 22 a producesfter becom anin averageg a car- torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32pen blackter, sacksadded of: rubbish.“I spent about VEHICLESA LAWN m haveower beenand fi s drivenhing over seCllrven Fort,year swho of m alsoy l if servese wor k asin ag farmlandequipmen t inw erLenham,e stolen in Ccausinghart parishfrom 7 a councillor,m until 11p m says, six teachingor seven damgeSutton ; t toyr e crops;s were s anlas h attempteded on a childrendays a w abouteek, to social build responsibility up this busi- break-invehicle i nwas Hu reportednton; a t ainx iDetling was ; a andness the. N oissuew it ’ofs alitterll go inne schools. will vehicledamag ewasd in vandalised in; p oBearstedlice in help“M takey w ithefe, Eissuemm aoff, h theas bstreets.een in Rd,Ma rdWeaveringen are inve; st pumpkinsigating an were Shebits believesabout it .with But weverye ha vhouseholde to carry stolenattem pt fromed br ea ank i n; allotmenta gate, in YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivingon. I’ll ju sat weeklyhave g erefuset mys ecollectionlf up off Lenhampadlock .and chains were stolen service,the floo therer and is gnoet excuseon wi tforh i tlitter be- from a farm in . [email protected] beingcause Ithrown have g ot from a fam vehiclesily. or Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped“If it w ina sthen’t road.for t he help 4 Comment 38-39

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2 Maidstone Weald October 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Caravan fire FIRE crews tackled a caravan Vicar marries her son blaze in . Two fire engines were sent to Maidstone Road after reports of a caravan alight in the middle of the in moving ceremony road at around 8.30pm on Friday, September 6. THE vicar of Headcorn and the final blessing, and Rev Haskett of- Crews used two hose reel jets to three Suttons has married her ficiating during the wedding put the fire out. There were no re- son. vows. mRev Haskett – parish ported injuries but the fire is The Rev Fiona Haskett, who priest at St Peter and St Paul, thought to have been started de- has clocked up 185 weddings Headcorn, St Mary’s, Sutton Va- liberately since being ordained, was offici- lence, St Michael’s, ating at the altar when Edward and St Peter and St Paul, East Sut- and fiancée Danielle tied the knot ton – says she suspects it will be Minister role during the summer. the last time she marries one of A LOCAL MP has been ap- Despite being terrified of hav- her children. pointed a Government minister. ing an “emotional wobble” on the Daughter Beth tied the knot in Helen Whately, the member for day, the proud mum of four told her mum’s church at , Faversham and Mid-Kent, joins Downs Mail the ceremony went but Canon David Trustram came the Department for Digital, Cul- without a hitch. out of retirement to perform the ture, Media & Sports (DCMS) “All weddings are special but ceremony. with a brief to oversee UK gam- this one was especially so,” she “She wanted me there as bling. said. mother of the bride, rather than “I promised I wouldn’t get priest,” said Rev Haskett. “And emotional, as I often do at wed- my other daughter, Lucy, says Half century dings. My colleagues threatened she would feel the same if she AN archaeology group has cele- to inflict all sorts of retribution on were to get married.” brated its 50th anniversary. me if I wobbled. Fortunately I Fourth child Alex has not ex- Maidstone Area Archaeology didn’t, but it did feel very odd. I pressed an opinion ... either on Group, formed in 1969, marked found it all very exciting.” bridge swimming pool. They the reverend officiating, or on the milestone at the town hall on Edward, a catering supervisor, married at St Mary’s, Leigh, with tying the knot. September 13, in the presence of met PE instructor Danielle while parish priest, the Rev Lionel the Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Picture: The Other Day Photography they were both working at Ton- Kevis performing the address and Marion Ring.

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Maidstone Weald October 2019 3 News downsmail.co.uk Whitehall ignores crime plea HOME Secretary Priti Patel has been blasted by a councillor after Whitehall fired off a dismissive letter in response to lawlessness on Headcorn’s streets. The parish is currently are some residents and visitors wrestling with a “crime wave” who will never encounter issues. that has resulted in a stabbing, But the general perception in shopkeepers being threatened by the parish, which has one of the thugs, vehicles being shot at with highest council tax rates in the airguns, and a plethora of anti- borough, is one of the law losing social behaviour. control of its streets. But when borough councillor “There may be some places in Martin Round wrote to the Gov- the country where three burgla- ernment’s law and order chief for ries in a street are normal, but just support, he was fobbed off by a one in Headcorn is a catastro- Whitehall flunky who claimed phe… it’s all about perception,” there were sufficient safeguards he said. for the public … and that the rate The parish council agreed that of offending is falling. Headcorn is experiencing a Cllr Round told Downs Mail: “I Home secretary Priti Patel and right, borough councillor Martin Round “wave of antisocial behaviour” was staggered, shocked and ap- “People here are genuinely rienced a crime in the last month. and that “the police have been palled by the reply. It never got scared. They feel threatened. And And there’s one postcode in made aware of the issues”. anywhere near the Home Secre- there’s no use quoting statistics Headcorn where house insurance Officers are said to be review- tary. when the Government doesn’t premiums have quadrupled in ing their response through Oper- “Some civil servant just said the know the half of it, because vic- the last year because of the num- ation Ostrich. But one harassed law was adequate and incidents tims don’t feel safe enough to tell ber of incidents.” shopkeeper quipped: “Operation of crime are going down. They the authorities what’s happening. Cllr Round said Headcorn is a Ostrich? It smacks of authorities just didn’t grasp my point. “Virtually every shop has expe- “lovely place to live” and there burying their heads in the sand.” Flower festival at church VILLAGERS are set for a week- or groups to produce a floral dis- end of blooms at the Autumn play. You don’t need to be a pro- Glory flower festival in St Peter fessional flower arranger, and and St Paul’s Church, Headcorn. there is no age limit. The event, from Friday, Octo- “Entering is free, but entrants ber 4 to Sunday, October 6, will need to supply any flowers or celebrate harvest and “fill the produce used. We also need vol- church with autumn colour”. unteers to steward, giving up an Organiser Jenny Morrison said: hour or two over the weekend.” “We are looking for individuals Call Jenny on 01622 892138.

Indian diner to re-open COXHEATH’s popular Indian from October, in the run-up to restaurant is to re-open for Christ- Christmas.” mas. The restaurant will be back in The Spice Lounge closed at the business from Tuesday, October 8, end of June, amidst complaints with many familiar staff returning, from the owner that the business including the head chef who has did not make money. been with the business since it Anhar Ali applied to demolish the opened in 2007. building on Heath Road and turn it Mr Ali says, if supported, the into retirement flats, but following restaurant may remain open. Fire blow to business a lengthy wait for a decision from He added: “There have been lots Continued from page 1 the council, along with calls from lo- of requests to re-open the restau- and support of friends and family, this would have been crushing.” cals to re-open, he has relented. rant. I have decided to see how it His landlord, Rob Schroeder, said: “Craig is such a nice guy and He told Downs Mail: “The plan- goes, and review options in the fu- we’re all devastated for him and his staff. He’ll bounce back, I’m sure.” ning application decision was due ture. Even if planning is approved, I Mr Judge hopes to move into temporary premises shortly to hon- in July, but the council has extended still have three years to consider the our the orders on his books, but will need premises of about 3,000 - this until October 31, with the case future of the restaurant. Hopefully, 5,000sq ft. If you can help, call him on 07951 730848. going to the planning committee. it will have been missed, and the lo- Readers with information on the arson should call Kent Police on “As a consequence, I have de- cals will start to use it, not only for 01622 604100 quoting crime reference 46/176907/19. cided to re-open the restaurant take-away but for dining in.”

4 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Whitehall ignores crime plea KCC leader to HOME Secretary Priti Patel has been blasted by a councillor after Whitehall fired off a dismissive letter in response to lawlessness on Headcorn’s streets. quit top role The parish is currently are some residents and visitors THE Tory leader of Kent County wrestling with a “crime wave” who will never encounter issues. Council, Paul Carter, has said he that has resulted in a stabbing, But the general perception in will step down next month. shopkeepers being threatened by the parish, which has one of the Cllr Carter has been a county thugs, vehicles being shot at with highest council tax rates in the member for 22 years and leader airguns, and a plethora of anti- borough, is one of the law losing since 2005. social behaviour. control of its streets. Downs Mail understands his But when borough councillor “There may be some places in mind was made up last year, while Martin Round wrote to the Gov- the country where three burgla- rumblings of discontent were ernment’s law and order chief for ries in a street are normal, but just being heard inside his own party. support, he was fobbed off by a one in Headcorn is a catastro- Rumours of a potential “coup” Whitehall flunky who claimed phe… it’s all about perception,” last summer were quashed after there were sufficient safeguards he said. Cllr Carter made it clear he would for the public … and that the rate The parish council agreed that step down at a time of his choosing. of offending is falling. Headcorn is experiencing a During his time in office he has Cllr Round told Downs Mail: “I Home secretary Priti Patel and right, borough councillor Martin Round “wave of antisocial behaviour” had to deal with a shrinking budget was staggered, shocked and ap- “People here are genuinely rienced a crime in the last month. and that “the police have been after central government squeezed palled by the reply. It never got scared. They feel threatened. And And there’s one postcode in made aware of the issues”. money coming to the county. anywhere near the Home Secre- there’s no use quoting statistics Headcorn where house insurance Officers are said to be review- One KCC insider said: “It came and support the vulnerable, elderly tary. when the Government doesn’t premiums have quadrupled in ing their response through Oper- to a point where some of the mem- and frail and continue with gener- “Some civil servant just said the know the half of it, because vic- the last year because of the num- ation Ostrich. But one harassed bers, even in his own cabinet, said ous travel subsidises, unlike many law was adequate and incidents tims don’t feel safe enough to tell ber of incidents.” shopkeeper quipped: “Operation he was becoming a part of the prob- local authorities that have reverted of crime are going down. They the authorities what’s happening. Cllr Round said Headcorn is a Ostrich? It smacks of authorities lem and not the solution and it was to the ‘core service model’.” just didn’t grasp my point. “Virtually every shop has expe- “lovely place to live” and there burying their heads in the sand.” time for new blood. Most people Rob Bird, leader of the KCC Lib- like and respect Paul, but they felt eral Democrat group, said: "Whilst it was time for a change.” we may not agree on all policy mat- Flower festival at church Cllr Carter said: “It has been a ters, I will be one of the first to ac- Relationship at great privilege to serve as leader of knowledge Paul Carter's VILLAGERS are set for a week- or groups to produce a floral dis- the council and I have enjoyed commitment to the people of Kent end of blooms at the Autumn play. You don’t need to be a pro- every moment of the last 14 years. and KCC." Glory flower festival in St Peter fessional flower arranger, and breaking point? “Staff and elected members Tory Gary Cooke said: “In view and St Paul’s Church, Headcorn. there is no age limit. should be proud of what has been of the extremely challenging times, The breakdown of any relationship can be The event, from Friday, Octo- “Entering is free, but entrants achieved, particularly in the last 10 most people would say that Paul ber 4 to Sunday, October 6, will need to supply any flowers or very distressing. years of austerity. We have deliv- has done b***** good job.” celebrate harvest and “fill the produce used. We also need vol- ered extraordinary financial effi- Cllr Carter was awarded a CBE Whitehead Monckton family lawyers can help you church with autumn colour”. unteers to steward, giving up an ciencies and stretched public for services to local government in Organiser Jenny Morrison said: hour or two over the weekend.” through this stressful and painful time. money to go further, improving 2014. “We are looking for individuals Call Jenny on 01622 892138. and modernising the complex Several names have been put We offer sensitive, constructive and cost effective array of services we provide. into the frame as Cllr Carter’s suc- legal advice. All our lawyers are experienced members “We have protected many highly cessor. They are Cllrs Mike Whit- valued non-statutory services, such ing, Paul Oakford, Roger Gough of Resolution, committed to a non-confrontational as preventative services that help and Gary Cooke. approach to resolving family problems. An initial fixed cost meeting for just £150 (plus VAT) with Indian diner to re-open one of our lawyers can help you see your way forward COXHEATH’s popular Indian from October, in the run-up to Seven sheep savaged and understand your legal position and options. restaurant is to re-open for Christ- Christmas.” DOG owners have been warned mas. The restaurant will be back in to keep their pets on leads after Our offices are in the centre of Canterbury, Maidstone The Spice Lounge closed at the business from Tuesday, October 8, seven sheep were savaged to and Tenterden so, if you want to take that first step to end of June, amidst complaints with many familiar staff returning, death near Maidstone. from the owner that the business including the head chef who has Kent Police reported that in re- finding out your options simply visit our website at: did not make money. been with the business since it cent days there have been three Anhar Ali applied to demolish the opened in 2007. reported incidents of sheep wor- www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk building on Heath Road and turn it Mr Ali says, if supported, the rying, including at a location in into retirement flats, but following restaurant may remain open. Thurnham on September 1, Canterbury 01227 643276 Fire blow to business a lengthy wait for a decision from He added: “There have been lots when the seven sheep were Maidstone 01622 698051 Continued from page 1 the council, along with calls from lo- of requests to re-open the restau- killed by a pair of dogs. Tenterden 01580 767527 and support of friends and family, this would have been crushing.” cals to re-open, he has relented. rant. I have decided to see how it Sergeant Darren Walshaw of He told Downs Mail: “The plan- goes, and review options in the fu- His landlord, Rob Schroeder, said: “Craig is such a nice guy and the Rural Task Force said: ‘This caused, attacks can lead to huge ning application decision was due ture. Even if planning is approved, I www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk we’re all devastated for him and his staff. He’ll bounce back, I’m sure.” was a particularly nasty incident, financial losses for farmers and in July, but the council has extended still have three years to consider the Mr Judge hopes to move into temporary premises shortly to hon- leading to some distressing in- when a dog has a taste for killing Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in this until October 31, with the case future of the restaurant. Hopefully, England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne our the orders on his books, but will need premises of about 3,000 - juries and ultimately the deaths and maiming sheep it often re- www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk 5,000sq ft. If you can help, call him on 07951 730848. going to the planning committee. it will have been missed, and the lo- Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by of a large number of livestock. turns.” the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. Readers with information on the arson should call Kent Police on “As a consequence, I have de- cals will start to use it, not only for “As well as the suffering Stock picture 01622 604100 quoting crime reference 46/176907/19. cided to re-open the restaurant take-away but for dining in.” DM2019

Maidstone Weald October 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Poll changes ‘considered’ Joyrider was found THE way the borough council elects its members could change after pressure from the Conserva- tive opposition members. inside a compost bin The Tories have argued holding A BURGLAR who crashed into a of burglary, theft, dangerous one poll every four years is car while making a high-speed driving, driving without a licence cheaper than three elections in getaway in his neighbour’s off- and driving without insurance. each four-year cycle. Tory oppo- road motor was found hiding in He was sentenced to 18 months in sition leader at Maidstone Bor- a compost bin, a court has heard. prison, banned from driving for ough Council (MBC), Witnesses saw David Hilden three years and nine months, and ’s Cllr John Perry be- (pictured) driving at dangerous he will need to take an extended lieves substantial savings could speeds, overtaking on the wrong driving test before being allowed be made. The proposal will be side of the road and on the pave- back behind the wheel. discussed in greater detail in No- ment after police took pursuit. Detective Constable Celia King, vember by Lib Dem-led MBC. The court heard Hilden had from Maidstone CID, said: taken the keys to the car after “Hilden lived yards from the vic- Charity fayre smashing a conservatory door to tim’s house and before the bur- FRIENDS rallied round to help get into a house in Orchard Close, glary had spoken to them about Maidstone widow Moya Spar- Coxheath, on May 7. how much he liked the car. He rowhawk make a welcome return Once inside, he snatched the then betrayed their trust in the to fundraising. keys to a Suzuki Jimny which he worst possible way. The Country Fayre was her first took from the drive. A short time “Upon realising he was facing event since 2016, following the later the vehicle was spotted by arrest, Hilden drove the stolen ve- sudden death of her partner Mar- officers in Square Hill Road. hicle without a single thought for tyn from a heart condition. After failing to stop, the 20- However, he was captured the safety of other road users and Moya, who says she has found year-old put the car in reverse, hit when a police dog found him hid- pedestrians. her feet and her motivation to another vehicle and mounted the ing in a garden waste container at “Ultimately, his actions have start fundraising again, raised grass verge to avoid the police. a property in Lockham Farm Av- achieved him nothing more than £1,200 for her new group, The Maidstone Crown Court heard enue. a prison sentence, which I hope Heavenly Hearts, for the British Hilden abandoned the Jimny in Hilden, from Forstal Lane, Cox- will offer some comfort and reas- Heart Foundation. Sutton Road and fled on foot. heath, pleaded guilty to charges surance to his victim.”

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6 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Over 55? Release tax free cash to help fund retirement Poll changes THEN YOU COULD CONSIDER A RETIREMENT MORTGAGE OR EQUITY RELEASE Joyrider was found Raise money for; ‘considered’ RETIREMENT LENDING AND EQUITY THE ADVISER – THE way the borough council RELEASE CAN BE IN SEVERAL FORMS, Andrew has a wealth • Home improvements elects its members could change TYPICALLY FROM 55 YEARS OF AGE of experience as an • Holiday of a lifetime after pressure from the Conserva- • Retirement mortgage - Similar to a independent mortgage • Gifting family members a tive opposition members. inside a compost bin adviser, he is friendly, deposit towards a home purchase traditional mortgage where you repay the The Tories have argued holding A BURGLAR who crashed into a of burglary, theft, dangerous capital and interest or solely the interest professional and cares or funding school fees one poll every four years is car while making a high-speed driving, driving without a licence keeping monthly payments low, main about his clients. • Repay an existing mortgage cheaper than three elections in getaway in his neighbour’s off- and driving without insurance. difference is there is typically no end date Over 90% of Andrew’s • Repay unsecured debt each four-year cycle. Tory oppo- road motor was found hiding in He was sentenced to 18 months in with the interest only option. Andrew McCrossan • Money for everyday living sition leader at Maidstone Bor- a compost bin, a court has heard. prison, banned from driving for clients are returning ough Council (MBC), Witnesses saw David Hilden three years and nine months, and • Lifetime mortgage - This is the most customers or referrals, highlighting his attitude Other reasons can include to Staplehurst’s Cllr John Perry be- (pictured) driving at dangerous he will need to take an extended common type of equity release, where you and long term relationships with clients. purchase a holiday home, estate lieves substantial savings could speeds, overtaking on the wrong driving test before being allowed planning, to fund long term care or be made. The proposal will be have the option to repay the interest, make Andrew has been established since 2003 side of the road and on the pave- back behind the wheel. discussed in greater detail in No- overpayments or let the interest roll up and is one of the few mortgage advisers to to pay for private medical costs. ment after police took pursuit. Detective Constable Celia King, vember by Lib Dem-led MBC. without making any payment. With many have the prestigious high level DipMAP The court heard Hilden had from Maidstone CID, said: HOW DO WE DISCUSS THIS? – taken the keys to the car after “Hilden lived yards from the vic- flexible products you can initially take enough mortgage qualification. Charity fayre smashing a conservatory door to tim’s house and before the bur- money for your immediate needs with a Andrew is happy to carry out drawdown facility for future use or to provide meetings at the Maidstone office, FRIENDS rallied round to help get into a house in Orchard Close, glary had spoken to them about Andrew is also a member of Coxheath, on May 7. how much he liked the car. He a regular income. in the comfort of your own home, Maidstone widow Moya Spar- the Equity Release Council, Once inside, he snatched the then betrayed their trust in the by phone or video call. To start rowhawk make a welcome return • Home reversion 65+ - You raise money committed to the highest to fundraising. keys to a Suzuki Jimny which he worst possible way. with please call to see if it is worth by selling all or part of your home while standards of advice. The Country Fayre was her first took from the drive. A short time “Upon realising he was facing while arranging a meeting. later the vehicle was spotted by arrest, Hilden drove the stolen ve- continuing to live in it, this is the least event since 2016, following the officers in Square Hill Road. hicle without a single thought for common and rarely features in current sudden death of her partner Mar- T: 01622 826150 tyn from a heart condition. After failing to stop, the 20- However, he was captured the safety of other road users and equity release. Moya, who says she has found year-old put the car in reverse, hit when a police dog found him hid- pedestrians. Borrowing is typically repaid from the sale of [email protected] her feet and her motivation to another vehicle and mounted the ing in a garden waste container at “Ultimately, his actions have your home when you die or move permanently a property in Lockham Farm Av- www.equitylifeuk.com start fundraising again, raised grass verge to avoid the police. achieved him nothing more than into residential care. £1,200 for her new group, The Maidstone Crown Court heard enue. a prison sentence, which I hope The Old Library, St Faiths Street, Maidstone ME14 1LH Heavenly Hearts, for the British Hilden abandoned the Jimny in Hilden, from Forstal Lane, Cox- will offer some comfort and reas- Equity Life UK is Appointed Representative of New Leaf Distribution Ltd. New Leaf Distribution Ltd. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Number 460421 Heart Foundation. Sutton Road and fled on foot. heath, pleaded guilty to charges surance to his victim.” For retirement mortgages your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Maidstone Weald October 2019 7 News downsmail.co.uk Gangs ‘driving boaters away’ THUGS who have hurled abuse and bottles at boaters at are to be targeted following a summer of terror that has turned parts of the Medway into a “no-go zone”. Water-users have told Downs lice now accept the extent and Mail that up to 40 gang members – severity of the problem, and offi- some as young as 10 – are behind cers are working with the associa- more than 20 confrontations at tion, British Transport Police and Hampstead Lock this year, involv- Maidstone Council’s Community ing verbal abuse, violence, threat- Protection Team to identify those ening behaviour and theft. responsible. Boat owners say the lock has be- He wants anyone who has suf- come a focal point on sunny days fered at the hands of gangs at for youths who travel to the area Hampstead Lock to log the inci- by train to swim in the river. dents retrospectively, and report However, together with local all future attacks, to ensure offend- ring-leaders, the situation has now ers are brought to justice. reached a point where “someone He said: “We have to get on top will be badly hurt”, says Mark of this problem because these Smurthwaite (pictured), Com- gangs are driving boat users away modore of the Medway Boat in their droves from the area and Users’ Association. the marinas at Yalding – and detr- Mr Smurthwaite (69), from ring day-trippers. Maidstone, says teenagers are “We have the most beautiful jumping in the water by the boats, river, which is a major attraction to climbing on board, rocking craft, “This is a dangerous situation. tact with propeller blades.” Maidstone, and these teenagers threatening crew, untying ropes Water has to be respected, espe- He added: “These youngsters cannot be allowed to destroy that and going below deck to rifle cially when it’s deep like it is here are extremely intimidating and and the pleasure had by so many through owners’ possessions. and users are operating boats and boaters using the lock can be on the water.” In a recent attack, a husband and lock gates. trapped for at least half an hour, As Downs Mail went to press, wife were pelted with glass bottles “Someone will be badly hurt if during which time they are sub- boat users had been prevented that broke just feet away. this carries on, quite possibly one jected to this deplorable behaviour from travelling up river after glue Mr Smurthwaite, who has sailed of these gang members, who risk and threats of violence.” was poured into the Lifting the river since he was a boy, said: losing a limb if they come into con- Mr Smurthwaite says Kent Po- Bridge’s mechanism at Yalding. ‘No quick fix’ to problems Report incidents to police MARK Smurthwaite says the Med- cer James Gibson said: “We are KENT Police Inspector Mark effects of antisocial behaviour on way Boat Users’ Association is dis- currently involved in a multi- Hedges, of Maidstone Community others. cussing ways of tackling the crisis agency approach dealing with is- Safety Unit, told Downs Mail: “We “Medway river users should con- with the authorities, which include sues of antisocial behaviour at are aware of the concerns of some tinue to work with us, report inci- installing CCTV cameras at the Hampstead Lock. boat owners at Hampstead Lock, dents, and keep a diary of events lock or fencing it off. “We are working with partners Yalding, regarding antisocial be- so we can continue to target the He said: “There will be no quick including Kent Police and the En- haviour in the area, particularly small minority whose actions can fix, but now we are talking and the vironment Agency, and are in reg- during the summer months. cause distress and anxiety to oth- police have accepted this is a prob- ular contact with the Medway “We are continuing to work ers.” lem that must be addressed.” River Users’ Association to help proactively with our partner agen- If you have information on any Mr Smurthwaite praised Maid- monitor the situation. cies to reassure boat owners that of these river offenders, contact stone Borough Council’s Commu- “Anyone affected should report we take all forms of antisocial be- Kent Police on 101, or 999 in cases nity Protection Team, saying they incidents on 101 or online on the haviour seriously. of emergency. The borough’s had met his members outside of- Kent Police website. “Our PSCO in Yalding has spoken Community Protection Team fice hours to discuss the issue and “Those identified as committing directly with a number of young should also be notified on 01622 had been very proactive. crimes or antisocial behaviour will people in the area to explain the 602202. MBC community protection offi- be dealt with accordingly.” Fine for a flytipper caught on CCTV cameras A LANGLEY man has been con- the back of a white van under On September 6, at Maid- tipping in the borough and will victed after CCTV cameras cap- cover of darkness, and left them stone Magistrates Court, Crow- prosecute anyone found to be tured him flytipping in one of close to the roadside. ley pleaded guilty to the dumping waste illegally.” the borough's worst blackspots. But Crowley (61) had been offence of flytipping, and was The prosecution was welcomed Steve Crowley, of Grasslands, clocked by covert cameras fined £400. He was also ordered by local borough councillor Gill dumped rubbish on an early planted at the notorious dump- to pay £205 costs, £150 clean up Fort, who has long fought for hours visit to Burberry Lane, ing site by Maidstone Borough compensation and a £40 victim CCTV cameras to be installed in near Kingswood, on May 7. Council’s Waste Crime Team. surcharge. Burberry Lane. He hauled a two-seater sofa, Later that morning, officers Jamie Duffy, MBC’s waste Flytipping can be reported at divan bed, toys, outdoor furni- were on his trail, and seized his crime manager, said: “We take a www.maidstone.gov.uk, by click- ture and a large bird cage from vehicle at 3.30pm. zero tolerance approach to fly- ing the “report it” button.

8 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsNewsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.ukBusiness Focus Gangs ‘driving boaters away’ THUGS who have hurled abuse and bottles at boaters at Yalding are to be targeted following a summer of terror that has turned parts of the Medway into a “no-go zone”. Water-users have told Downs lice now accept the extent and Mail that up to 40 gang members – severity of the problem, and offi- Ask the some as young as 10 – are behind cers are working with the associa- more than 20 confrontations at tion, British Transport Police and Hampstead Lock this year, involv- Maidstone Council’s Community ing verbal abuse, violence, threat- Protection Team to identify those ening behaviour and theft. responsible. Boat owners say the lock has be- He wants anyone who has suf- come a focal point on sunny days fered at the hands of gangs at expert for youths who travel to the area Hampstead Lock to log the inci- by train to swim in the river. dents retrospectively, and report This week in our Ask the expert series, However, together with local all future attacks, to ensure offend- ring-leaders, the situation has now ers are brought to justice. we ask Audiologist Hannah Harris from reached a point where “someone He said: “We have to get on top award winning Buchanan Optometrists and will be badly hurt”, says Mark of this problem because these Smurthwaite (pictured), Com- gangs are driving boat users away Audiologists all about hearing. modore of the Medway Boat in their droves from the area and Users’ Association. the marinas at Yalding – and detr- Why do I need a hearing test? we carry out your test in a custom- a reasonable volume for the room Mr Smurthwaite (69), from ring day-trippers. designed sound-attenuating room and enhanced through your hearing Maidstone, says teenagers are “We have the most beautiful Hearing loss often goes unnoticed, jumping in the water by the boats, river, which is a major attraction to and it is the people around you that to ensure you get the best results. I aids. These latest generations of climbing on board, rocking craft, “This is a dangerous situation. tact with propeller blades.” Maidstone, and these teenagers find it difficult. They have to repeat perform many more tests than most hearing aids give you a much better threatening crew, untying ropes Water has to be respected, espe- He added: “These youngsters cannot be allowed to destroy that basic hearing tests including ear quality of hearing and a better and going below deck to rifle cially when it’s deep like it is here are extremely intimidating and and the pleasure had by so many things in conversation, they find through owners’ possessions. and users are operating boats and boaters using the lock can be on the water.” you have the television or radio too health screening, video Otoscopy quality of life. In a recent attack, a husband and lock gates. trapped for at least half an hour, As Downs Mail went to press, to assess the health of your ear wife were pelted with glass bottles “Someone will be badly hurt if during which time they are sub- boat users had been prevented loud, or you find that people seem to that broke just feet away. this carries on, quite possibly one jected to this deplorable behaviour from travelling up river after glue mumble or not speak clearly. These canal and eardrum, outer ear and What does a hearing assessment Mr Smurthwaite, who has sailed of these gang members, who risk and threats of violence.” was poured into the Lifting are some of the most common skin assessment. Tympanometry cost? the river since he was a boy, said: losing a limb if they come into con- Mr Smurthwaite says Kent Po- Bridge’s mechanism at Yalding. indications of hearing loss. which evaluates your outer and It only costs £149 for your ‘No quick fix’ to problems middle ear, also the mobility of comprehensive hearing assessment Report incidents to police Will I need hearing aids? the eardrum, looking for treatable which includes all the tests MARK Smurthwaite says the Med- cer James Gibson said: “We are conditions. Pure tone air conduction KENT Police Inspector Mark effects of antisocial behaviour on We see many clients who need wax mentioned above. You get to see me way Boat Users’ Association is dis- currently involved in a multi- Hedges, of Maidstone Community others. and bone conduction audiology cussing ways of tackling the crisis agency approach dealing with is- removal. We use the latest video personally, and I will deal with all Safety Unit, told Downs Mail: “We “Medway river users should con- tests and further tests as required, with the authorities, which include sues of antisocial behaviour at are aware of the concerns of some tinue to work with us, report inci- otoscopy to have a look at the aspects of your hearing care. installing CCTV cameras at the Hampstead Lock. boat owners at Hampstead Lock, dents, and keep a diary of events speech audiometry which measures lock or fencing it off. “We are working with partners health of your ears and identify any Yalding, regarding antisocial be- so we can continue to target the and scores your ability to hear He said: “There will be no quick including Kent Police and the En- haviour in the area, particularly small minority whose actions can issues or concerns. Video otoscopy fix, but now we are talking and the vironment Agency, and are in reg- and recognise words at different Don’t suffer any longer, during the summer months. cause distress and anxiety to oth- is far superior to an optical otoscope police have accepted this is a prob- ular contact with the Medway “We are continuing to work ers.” intensity levels. book your comprehensive lem that must be addressed.” River Users’ Association to help proactively with our partner agen- If you have information on any which doesn’t give the same Mr Smurthwaite praised Maid- monitor the situation. cies to reassure boat owners that of these river offenders, contact magnification and clarity. hearing assessment now stone Borough Council’s Commu- “Anyone affected should report we take all forms of antisocial be- Kent Police on 101, or 999 in cases Are all hearing aids the same? by calling nity Protection Team, saying they incidents on 101 or online on the haviour seriously. of emergency. The borough’s had met his members outside of- Kent Police website. “Our PSCO in Yalding has spoken Community Protection Team Do I need to treat my hearing loss? No. The newest digital hearing fice hours to discuss the issue and “Those identified as committing directly with a number of young should also be notified on 01622 aids can be fine-tuned over many 01732 617557 had been very proactive. crimes or antisocial behaviour will No, but research has shown that people in the area to explain the 602202. channels to give you better hearing. MBC community protection offi- be dealt with accordingly.” treating hearing loss can also delay They have directional microphones, the onset of Alzheimer’s disease background noise can be filtered and dementia. Hearing loss can also Fine for a flytipper caught on CCTV cameras out, and speech improvement A LANGLEY man has been con- the back of a white van under On September 6, at Maid- tipping in the borough and will lead to embarrassment and social technology assists with speech victed after CCTV cameras cap- cover of darkness, and left them stone Magistrates Court, Crow- prosecute anyone found to be isolation. tured him flytipping in one of close to the roadside. ley pleaded guilty to the dumping waste illegally.” recognition in noisy situations. the borough's worst blackspots. But Crowley (61) had been offence of flytipping, and was The prosecution was welcomed Bluetooth links to your phone or Steve Crowley, of Grasslands, clocked by covert cameras fined £400. He was also ordered by local borough councillor Gill Aren’t all hearing tests the same? dumped rubbish on an early planted at the notorious dump- to pay £205 costs, £150 clean up Fort, who has long fought for tablet and television connections Buchanan House, hours visit to Burberry Lane, ing site by Maidstone Borough compensation and a £40 victim CCTV cameras to be installed in No. At Buchanan Audiologists I allow wireless streaming of audio 56 Malling Road, Snodland, near Kingswood, on May 7. Council’s Waste Crime Team. surcharge. Burberry Lane. spend the time (up to 90 minutes) directly to the hearing aid so, for He hauled a two-seater sofa, Later that morning, officers Jamie Duffy, MBC’s waste Flytipping can be reported at Kent, ME6 5NB divan bed, toys, outdoor furni- were on his trail, and seized his crime manager, said: “We take a www.maidstone.gov.uk, by click- with you to discuss your problems, example, your television can be at ture and a large bird cage from vehicle at 3.30pm. zero tolerance approach to fly- ing the “report it” button.

Maidstone Weald October 2019 9 News downsmail.co.uk Hospital unit WORK has started on an £8m pur- Hannah versus Helen pose-built Acute Assessment Unit (AAU) at Maidstone Hospital. The new building – next to the Emergency Department – will house 14 short-stay beds, eight as- for a seat in the house sessment beds and three separate treatment rooms. It is expected to THE Liberal Democrats have se- be fully operational by January lected Hannah Perkin to take on next year. MP Helen Whately for the Faver- Election 2017 A spokesman for the hospital sham and Mid Kent constituency FAVERSHAM and Mid Kent said the state-of-the-art, dedicated at the next general election. general election result: assessment unit means emergency Mrs Perkin (34), who was Helen Whately (Con) 30,390 patients will be cared for in a fit- elected in May 2016 as deputy Michael Desmond (Lab) for-purpose, modern environment, cabinet member for health and 12,977 with improved dignity and pri- vacy, with access to the emergency well-being at Swale Borough David Naghi (Lib Dem) 3,249 Council , is a long-standing com- facility. Mark McGiffin (UKIP) 1,702 munity campaigner, say her sup- porters. Alastair Gould (Green) 1,431 She says two-party politics is Show dates “broken” and “lets the people about the serious damage leaving ORGANISERS of the Kent County down” but thinks the Lib Dems the EU will do to the UK econ- Show at Detling say next year’s can “rescue the local community omy. A second referendum is ab- event will now take place on July in Faversham and Mid Kent”. solutely essential. 10, 11 and 12. Mrs Perkin said: “I am delighted sure we can stop Brexit. We need “I am pledging right now to The dates have been changed to and proud that local Liberal De- parliament to agree a proposal for work positively for the whole avoid clashing with similar events mocrats have put their trust in me Brexit and then hold a second ref- local community on both local in the national events calendar. and elected me, with a substantial erendum with the option to re- and national issues, to bring em- Manager Lucy Hegarty said: majority, to become their parlia- main on the ballot paper. pathy, fairness and transparency “After reviewing agricultural show mentary candidate for the antici- “Thousands of young people into politics.” dates across the country, we have pated early general election. who could not vote in 2016 should Mrs Perkin has two children made the decision to hold the Kent “As a Liberal Democrat, every- be given the chance to decide and and runs her own catering busi- County Show a week later than one knows that I will work to en- we all know much more now ness. previously announced.” COUNTY COBBLER Shoe Repairs - Key Cutting Just moved? Need spare keys? We are here to help! DISCOUNTS on multiple key orders COMPETITIVELY priced

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Maidstone Weald October 2019 11 News downsmail.co.uk Police recruits NINE hundred would-be police officers have responded to the re- Derrick’s sole control cruitment call by the force. The applications have been re- ceived since April, following the launch by Kent Police of its More Than the Badge campaign. of whole VIAT group A hike in council tax means an THE academy trust behind one ley Park School in its portfolio. extra 180 officers on the beat, as of the country’s best grammar It also includes Leybourne well as the extra 200 in the previ- schools now has a sole chief ex- Chase Primary, East Borough Pri- ous financial year. ecutive officer. mary, Holborough Lakes, Ayles- Julie Derrick assumed the role ford Primary and Kings Hill Band concert after the retirement of her joint Primary. CEO Vic Ashdown in the sum- Mrs Derrick said: “I am thrilled THE UK Paper Band will be per- mer. to have been appointed as chief forming at Ulcombe Church on Mrs Derrick remains head executive of VIAT. October 5. teacher of Invicta Grammar “Our vision is to create and The Sittingbourne group will School (IGS), in Huntsman Lane, maintain an exceptional cluster of perform at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £10 Maidstone, as well as the top job primary and secondary schools at and include a cream tea. Call Molly in the Valley Invicta Academies’ the heart of our local community, Poulter on (01622 842988) or Brid- Trust (VIAT). and I’m looking forward to lead- get Samuelson (01622 890912), or IGS was named one of the top ing the trust into an exciting fu- buy on the door. 10 schools in the country and the ture.” best in Kent, according to a guide leading the business and enter- Dr Nick Ware, chairman of Get juicing based on official government sta- prise specialism as assistant head VIAT, said: “The Trust Board was HAVE you a glut of apples? Well, tistics, published earlier this year. teacher. unanimous in its decision to ap- why not turn them into juice at an Mrs Derrick has worked in a va- She was appointed head of In- point Mrs Derrick to this role and apple pressing Day in . riety of educational settings span- victa Grammar School seven recognise that it is very lucky to The public are invited to take ning a career of 33 years in years ago. have such an exceptional talent their own supplies to the Tithe London and other parts of Kent, VIAT, which sees itself as a trust leading the organisation.” Barn at Court Lodge Farm as part before settling in Maidstone. taking in the A20 corridor as its Valley Park’s deputy head, of a family fun day from 10am to She is a National Leader in Ed- catchment, has secondary schools Margaret Hutchinson, steps up 3pm on Sunday, October 13. ucation and joined IGS in 2004 by IGS, The Lenham School and Val- into the head teacher role.

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Maidstone Weald October 2019 15 News | Lenham downsmail.co.uk Plan ‘could cost me my farm’ A FARMER claims he faces losing his home, land and business as Maidstone Borough Council forges ahead with plans for a 5,000-house development in Lenham Heath. David Smith, of Hubbards Farm, keeps sheep on his 30-acre plot not far from the M20 and the high-speed rail link. His wife, Af- saneh, runs her chiropody practice in the grounds of their 600-year- old property. He fears he must comply with a request to sell his land at the mar- ket agricultural rate or face the prospect of having it purchased compulsorily. Other landowners are con- cerned their land might be valued at around £100-150,000 per acre (the going rate for farms) as op- posed to the Government’s 2015 valuation of £1.53m an acre for res- idential land in Maidstone. identified parcels of land for a 600- cited a recent government study emerge with very much at all.” They fear, once Liberal Democ- acre development for 5,000 “gar- compiled by Sir Oliver Letwin Asked if landowners would be rat-run Maidstone Borough Coun- den village” homes. which, if passed into law, would subject to compulsory purchase cil has made the purchases, the Mr Smith (61), a former oil in- give local authorities greater orders (CPOs) and, if so, whether land will be sold on to developers dustry geologist with BP, said: “I power to acquire land they need they would be paid the agricultural for a higher price. stand to do okay out of it, I sup- for development. or residential rate for it, MBC said: We understand resultant rev- pose. But that’s not the point – I Mr Smith added: “I don’t mind “CPO is not the intended route in enues could be ploughed into de- don’t want the money. We want to surrendering some of my land for respect of land acquisition.The in- livering local services to the new live here on our farm where we’ve development, especially if it is af- tention would be to agree terms housing estates, a possible M20 been for 20 years. fordable housing for local people. on a negotiated basis. Regardless, motorway junction and a high “And we’re worried that, if we “I have no idea how much we’d no firm decisions in respect of the speed railway station. don’t agree to sell, it will be taken have to pay in capital gains tax or overall proposal have been made. Mr Smith was approached in away from us anyway.” whether we’d be able to get back “However, the CPO legal June by MBC’s planning consul- Barton Willmore senior partner the type of life we currently enjoy. process has an embedded com- tancy, Barton Willmore, which has Huw Edwards, claims Mr Smith, I doubt it. Other people might not pensation rights mechanism.” Council set to be Landowners invited to sell ‘master developer’ LANDOWNERS have been ap- MAIDSTONE Borough Council proached to sell tracts of land to ac- MBC plan ‘stinks’ would be the “master developer” commodate a massive housing in the Lenham scheme. development at Lenham Heath. says Eddie Powell It was made public before the Nine potential vendors have INDEPENDENT Maidstone coun- other proposals contained in the been furnished with a document cillor Eddie Powell said: “I wasn't call for sites – the basis for the drawn up by a firm of planning aware of the Barton Willmore Local Plan review – and discussed consultants on behalf of Liberal document but at MBC's policy and resources MBC’s policy and committee on September 18. Democrat-led Maidstone Borough The committee agreed “to ad- Council. review. Most councillors believed resources commit- vance the commercial negotiations The brochure, dated March that figure to be about 8,000, but tee has decided to with the principal landowners”. 2019, sets out why Lenham Heath page one of the document “A New press on with this MBC would take “a controlling is suitable to take up to 5,000 Garden Village in the Borough of idea. This docu- interest in the land, lead the design houses. Maidstone” mentions 10,500. ment suggests that process, enable the required infra- A graphic outlines locations for We understand landowners the council was working on this structure, identify suitable devel- primary and secondary schools, a have been asked to sign non-dis- long before its March publication opment partners and oversee the possible new high speed railway closure agreements (NDAs) to pre- date. This has evidently been stewardship of the community”. station and other amenities. vent them doing deals with other worked on for a long, long time Tory Cllr Jonathan Purle said: “I The document, written by senior developers. and is far better developed than don’t see any merit in going along planning partner Huw Edwards of Maidstone Borough Council has most of us ever realised. with MBC’s scheming. They are Barton Willmore, says the rela- submitted the proposal as part of “But if you are someone with a still withholding from councillors tively small number of landowners the LP review’s “call for sites” be- plot of land who has taken the the sites submitted in the Local would facilitate “ease of delivery” tween February 28 and May 24. time, effort and expense to sub- Plan review.” of the scheme. Councillors will be told which of mit a proposal in the call for sites MBC leader Cllr Martin Cox The council is under pressure to the estimated 300 proposals affect you’re going to be mightily miffed said the council was being “proac- deliver 17,600 homes in the Local their wards in early October but to find the council has used tax- tive” in working for the long-term Plan (LP) but will have to accept the full list will not be made public payers’ cash to effectively prede- future of the borough. many thousands more in the LP until November 4. termine its own scheme. It stinks.”

16 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News | Lenham downsmail.co.uk Plan ‘could cost me my farm’ Your path to home ownership A FARMER claims he faces losing his home, land and business as Maidstone Borough Council What is shared ownership? forges ahead with plans for a 5,000-house development in Lenham Heath. It’s your path to home ownership – Over time, you can gradually David Smith, of Hubbards from dream to reality – and no, you increase your share, decreasing Farm, keeps sheep on his 30-acre don’t need to share your bathroom the rent you pay to a housing plot not far from the M20 and the with strangers! association for the other share. high-speed rail link. His wife, Af- You can end up owning your saneh, runs her chiropody practice Homes in the UK can cost seven home outright. Increasing in the grounds of their 600-year- times the average salary, for many, the share in a home is known old property. owning a home isn’t an option. as staircasing. The sales team He fears he must comply with a But rising prices don’t need to be will advise you about the request to sell his land at the mar- a permanent barrier, thanks to process when you purchase ket agricultural rate or face the shared ownership schemes. the first share. prospect of having it purchased compulsorily. Shared ownership allows you Not everyone is eligible to Other landowners are con- to buy an initial share of a home purchase a shared ownership cerned their land might be valued (usually around 35%). The deposit home, you’ll need to have no at around £100-150,000 per acre and mortgage you need is much other way of buying a house (the going rate for farms) as op- lower than buying a home on the and your household income posed to the Government’s 2015 open market. Alternatively, if you needs to be under £80,000. valuation of £1.53m an acre for res- have the money you can buy the idential land in Maidstone. identified parcels of land for a 600- cited a recent government study emerge with very much at all.” share without a mortgage and just More information can be found They fear, once Liberal Democ- acre development for 5,000 “gar- compiled by Sir Oliver Letwin Asked if landowners would be pay rent on the remaining share to on our website westkent.org/buy rat-run Maidstone Borough Coun- den village” homes. which, if passed into law, would subject to compulsory purchase a housing association. Three Fields, Tenterden cil has made the purchases, the Mr Smith (61), a former oil in- give local authorities greater orders (CPOs) and, if so, whether land will be sold on to developers dustry geologist with BP, said: “I power to acquire land they need they would be paid the agricultural for a higher price. stand to do okay out of it, I sup- for development. or residential rate for it, MBC said: We understand resultant rev- pose. But that’s not the point – I Mr Smith added: “I don’t mind “CPO is not the intended route in enues could be ploughed into de- don’t want the money. We want to surrendering some of my land for respect of land acquisition.The in- We have shared ownership livering local services to the new live here on our farm where we’ve development, especially if it is af- tention would be to agree terms housing estates, a possible M20 been for 20 years. fordable housing for local people. on a negotiated basis. Regardless, motorway junction and a high “And we’re worried that, if we “I have no idea how much we’d no firm decisions in respect of the homes for sale in: speed railway station. don’t agree to sell, it will be taken have to pay in capital gains tax or overall proposal have been made. Mr Smith was approached in away from us anyway.” whether we’d be able to get back “However, the CPO legal June by MBC’s planning consul- Barton Willmore senior partner the type of life we currently enjoy. process has an embedded com- The Paddocks, Bluebell Walk, tancy, Barton Willmore, which has Huw Edwards, claims Mr Smith, I doubt it. Other people might not pensation rights mechanism.” Lenham 4 x two bedroom houses, 7 x three bedroom houses and 8 x three bedroom houses and 1 x two bedroom coach house Council set to be 5 x four bedroom houses Landowners invited to sell Autumn 2019 ‘master developer’ Autumn 2019 LANDOWNERS have been ap- MAIDSTONE Borough Council proached to sell tracts of land to ac- MBC plan ‘stinks’ The Paddocks, Lenham would be the “master developer” commodate a massive housing Halden Field, Three Fields, in the Lenham scheme. development at Lenham Heath. says Eddie Powell It was made public before the Tenterden Nine potential vendors have INDEPENDENT Maidstone coun- Rolvenden other proposals contained in the been furnished with a document cillor Eddie Powell said: “I wasn't 6 x one bedroom and call for sites – the basis for the 2 x two bedroom houses and drawn up by a firm of planning aware of the Barton Willmore 3 x two bedroom apartments, Local Plan review – and discussed 4 x three bedroom houses consultants on behalf of Liberal document but 12 x two bedroom and at MBC's policy and resources MBC’s policy and Winter 2019 1 x three bedroom houses committee on September 18. Democrat-led Maidstone Borough resources commit- The committee agreed “to ad- Council. review. Most councillors believed Available now vance the commercial negotiations The brochure, dated March that figure to be about 8,000, but tee has decided to with the principal landowners”. 2019, sets out why Lenham Heath page one of the document “A New press on with this idea. This docu- Hinxhill, MBC would take “a controlling is suitable to take up to 5,000 Garden Village in the Borough of Willesborough, interest in the land, lead the design houses. Maidstone” mentions 10,500. ment suggests that Wood, process, enable the required infra- A graphic outlines locations for We understand landowners the council was working on this Ashford Maidstone primary and secondary schools, a have been asked to sign non-dis- long before its March publication structure, identify suitable devel- 3 x two bedroom houses and opment partners and oversee the possible new high speed railway closure agreements (NDAs) to pre- date. This has evidently been 13 x two bedroom houses and 20 x three bedroom houses stewardship of the community”. station and other amenities. vent them doing deals with other worked on for a long, long time 13 x three bedroom houses Tory Cllr Jonathan Purle said: “I The document, written by senior developers. and is far better developed than From Spring 2020 From Spring 2020 don’t see any merit in going along planning partner Huw Edwards of Maidstone Borough Council has most of us ever realised. with MBC’s scheming. They are Barton Willmore, says the rela- submitted the proposal as part of “But if you are someone with a Bluebell Walk, Harrietsham still withholding from councillors tively small number of landowners the LP review’s “call for sites” be- plot of land who has taken the the sites submitted in the Local would facilitate “ease of delivery” tween February 28 and May 24. time, effort and expense to sub- Plan review.” of the scheme. Councillors will be told which of mit a proposal in the call for sites Contact us: Follow us: MBC leader Cllr Martin Cox The council is under pressure to the estimated 300 proposals affect you’re going to be mightily miffed said the council was being “proac- deliver 17,600 homes in the Local their wards in early October but to find the council has used tax- [email protected] @west_kent WestKentHA tive” in working for the long-term Plan (LP) but will have to accept the full list will not be made public payers’ cash to effectively prede- termine its own scheme. It stinks.” future of the borough. many thousands more in the LP until November 4. 01732 749400 WestKentHousingAssociation

Maidstone Weald October 2019 17 News | GP crisis downsmail.co.uk GP services ‘struggle to cope’ A SURGE in housebuilding and a national shortage of GPs is pu ing doctors and patients under unprecedented pressure, writes Dawn Kingsford. More complex medical condi- opt for careers away from general The West Kent Clinical Com- and practices are being encour- tions and treatments, alongside practice. missioning Group (CCG), which aged to recruit a broad range of recruitment competition from The British Medical Association provides GP services to half-a- clinicians and healthcare profes- London and a burgeoning popu- in Kent says doctors now need ur- million NHS patients, including sionals to meet their patients’ lation, have resulted in a shrink- gent help to cope with the recruit- those in Maidstone and Malling, needs. ing number of Maidstone and ment crisis. says it has nearly 19 full-time doc- “Where these are not in place, Malling GPs, each with greater BMA GP committee chair Dr tor vacancies. we are working with practices to workloads. Gaurav Gupta said: “There is a se- It describes GP recruitment as recruit additional staff, such as so- Now, for the first time, patients rious recruitment crisis in general “challenging”. cial prescribing link workers and are encountering an average wait practice, which has affected Kent Its chair, Dr Bob Bowes, admit- clinical pharmacists, to work in of almost 15 days for a routine particularly badly. ted: “We do need to work the newly-formed Primary Care appointment, with one in five fac- “Doctors are increasingly being smarter. There are six times more Networks.” ing more than three weeks. expected to do more with less, patients than when I started in He said West Kent Training Downs Mail has discovered and patient care inevitably suffers 1987.” Hub has a “comprehensive plan that a typical local doctor has in as a result.” This smarter working has seen to address recruitment and reten- excess of 2,000 patients on their She added: “GPs and practice the CCG urging surgeries to use tion” and the Kent and Medway books. This works out to an aver- staff are going above and beyond “care navigation” to point pa- Medical School (a collaboration age of 200 more than GPs else- to cover the shortfall, and funding tients to other services and to re- between Canterbury Christ where in the UK. promised in the new GP contract cruit staff, other than GPs, to ease Church University and Univer- The situation is exacerbated by will help, but practices and pa- pressure on primary care. sity of Kent), opening in 2020, will stressed doctors taking early re- tients face these problems now. A spokesman said: “Not all care assist GP recruitment in the long tirement, while medical students We need immediate solutions.” needs to be provided by a GP, term. MP calls for improvement New estate’s surgery set to health care to become a restaurant CONSERVATIVE MP Helen Whately admits there is no doubt PATIENTS unable to get an ap- getting an appointment is diffi- pointment will be shocked by cult, with some patients taking news that a purpose-built doctor’s themselves to Accident and Emer- surgery near West Malling could gency (A&E) instead. be turned into a restaurant. She wants to see an improve- Taylor Wimpey said this week ment in services; more joined-up that having built the 4,245 sq ft sur- health and social care and better gery for its 1,000 home Leybourne mental health care. Chase estate, its future as a medical She told Downs Mail that al- centre looks dead in the water. though each year the NHS pro- The developer is now in talks vides millions with excellent care, with Tonbridge and Malling Bor- shocking cases have emerged ough Council with a view to get- where patients have been treated ting a change of use on the practice. appallingly. A spokesman said: “We can con- She adds: “Healthcare affects us firm that the shell of the doctor’s He said: “This is a vicious circle ple are queuing out of the door. all, whether we’re patients our- surgery remains unoccupied, de- that needs to be addressed. It There are already plans to close all selves or our families and friends. spite over three years of marketing. seems each party in this equation but two rooms of the high street As a parent, I make regular trips “We are keen to enhance the vil- has done what was asked of them, surgery and make it available only to the GP with my children and lage centre by finding a suitable oc- but the Clinical Commissioning to those who cannot make it to occasional visits to A&E too. cupant for this unit, and are, Group hasn’t factored it in; it sim- Kings Hill.” “The major hospitals around therefore, opening discussions ply hasn’t come together and no- He conceded: “It could be that this area are all in difficulties and with the planning authority to ex- one is stepping up to remedy the one doctor would feel isolated many GP surgeries are full to plore the possibility of changing situation.” here, or it may be too costly, but bursting, with patients queuing at the use of the building.” He added: “I’m sure people this surgery could take patients 8am for appointments.” The spokesman added that uses moved here because they were told from Ryarsh and West Malling and The MP admits the problem could include a restaurant, shop, it would have a doctor’s surgery. some of the pressure off their wait- isn’t limited to just West Kent, business or leisure facility – not Now, these new homeowners will ing lists. This all should have been with “GPs and hospitals around what those moving into the area join patients in West Malling, thought about at the beginning of the country struggling to cope”. were promised. which is already under enormous the planning process.” She said: “It’s easy to be critical Leybourne Borough councillor strain.” West Kent CCG said the practice but not necessarily helpful. I use Nick Stapleton (pictured) believes Mr Stapleton, who is himself a provided by Taylor Wimpey had these services too, and I want the there needs to be a champion to patient at West Malling Medical “not been identified by the NHS as NHS to provide excellent care to take up the cause if infrastructure Practice, said: “It’s almost impossi- required to deliver primary med- everyone who needs it.” promises fail to materialise. ble to get an appointment and peo- ical services”.

18 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News | GP crisis downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk GP crisis | News GP services ‘struggle to cope’ Health care ‘an A SURGE in housebuilding and a national shortage of GPs is pu ing doctors and patients under unprecedented pressure, writes Dawn Kingsford. afterthought More complex medical condi- opt for careers away from general The West Kent Clinical Com- and practices are being encour- tions and treatments, alongside practice. missioning Group (CCG), which aged to recruit a broad range of recruitment competition from The British Medical Association provides GP services to half-a- clinicians and healthcare profes- London and a burgeoning popu- in Kent says doctors now need ur- million NHS patients, including sionals to meet their patients’ lation, have resulted in a shrink- gent help to cope with the recruit- those in Maidstone and Malling, needs. for planners’ ing number of Maidstone and ment crisis. says it has nearly 19 full-time doc- “Where these are not in place, Malling GPs, each with greater BMA GP committee chair Dr tor vacancies. we are working with practices to workloads. Gaurav Gupta said: “There is a se- It describes GP recruitment as recruit additional staff, such as so- GP Dr Will Mangar believes extra housing and Now, for the first time, patients rious recruitment crisis in general “challenging”. cial prescribing link workers and the health needs of occupants have been are encountering an average wait practice, which has affected Kent Its chair, Dr Bob Bowes, admit- clinical pharmacists, to work in of almost 15 days for a routine particularly badly. ted: “We do need to work the newly-formed Primary Care viewed as an “after-thought” by planners. appointment, with one in five fac- “Doctors are increasingly being smarter. There are six times more Networks.” The Sutton Valence-based GP way forward.” needs of an expected 10-15,000 pa- “The short-term future will also ing more than three weeks. expected to do more with less, patients than when I started in He said West Kent Training sympathises with those forced to He says he is enthusiastic about tients, as one of the area’s emerg- include a broader range of hospital Downs Mail has discovered and patient care inevitably suffers 1987.” Hub has a “comprehensive plan wait for an appointment, but says taking on the challenges, which in ing super-surgeries, which will and specialist services, including that a typical local doctor has in as a result.” This smarter working has seen to address recruitment and reten- more homes are just one factor in- recent years has seen him needing dominate primary care provision X-rays, at GP surgeries.” excess of 2,000 patients on their She added: “GPs and practice the CCG urging surgeries to use tion” and the Kent and Medway fluencing the NHS, which is at an- to use interpreters for his Eastern in the future. He said Maidstone, Medway books. This works out to an aver- staff are going above and beyond “care navigation” to point pa- Medical School (a collaboration other important time of change. European patients. He said: “We are moving to a and William Harvey hospitals are age of 200 more than GPs else- to cover the shortfall, and funding tients to other services and to re- between Canterbury Christ Dr Mangar said: “We are con- The 44-year-old, who qualified time when patients will be encour- all becoming increasingly difficult where in the UK. promised in the new GP contract cruit staff, other than GPs, to ease Church University and Univer- tractors for the Clinical Commis- in 2000, says while his surgery at aged to take more responsibility to reach by road. The policy is now The situation is exacerbated by will help, but practices and pa- pressure on primary care. sity of Kent), opening in 2020, will sioning Group, bound by an Sutton Valence is receiving multi- for their health needs and GPs will to return more services to local sur- stressed doctors taking early re- tients face these problems now. A spokesman said: “Not all care assist GP recruitment in the long agreement to look after our pa- ple patient registration requests share even more resources. geries. tirement, while medical students We need immediate solutions.” needs to be provided by a GP, term. tients, and that is what we want to each week - many from the new es- “Through education about con- He agreed health care has seen do. tates off the Sutton Road in Maid- ditions and utilising other health many changes, adding: “A lot of “Housing, the public’s height- stone - the surgery is coping. professionals, we are already see- doctors have retired; sceptical of MP calls for ened awareness of their own However, he recognises the ing the start of better “care naviga- the fact that health plans go around New estate’s surgery set health, and the elephant in the 7,000-patient practice will need to tion”, which will give us more and around, but I am enthusiastic improvement room – mental health – are all in- move to bigger premises. flexibility and time to spend with that I will be part of the generation creasing the numbers through our He is looking for land in Sutton patients with increasingly complex that leaves a better health service as to health care to become a restaurant door each day and shaping the Valence or Warmlake to meet the health needs. a legacy for our children.” CONSERVATIVE MP Helen Whately admits there is no doubt PATIENTS unable to get an ap- Charities ‘are getting an appointment is diffi- pointment will be shocked by Nine months to fill role Contact the cult, with some patients taking news that a purpose-built doctor’s themselves to Accident and Emer- surgery near West Malling could stepping up’ IN SNODLAND, the medical prac- watchdog PENNY Williams, from Yalding, gency (A&E) instead. be turned into a restaurant. tice took nine months and two ad- HEALTHWATCH Kent shares says charities and support groups She wants to see an improve- Taylor Wimpey said this week vertising campaigns to replace its the information it receives are being forced to step up to help ment in services; more joined-up that having built the 4,245 sq ft sur- GP. with the CCG to ensure the “victims of an health and social care and better gery for its 1,000 home Leybourne Partner Dr Becky Prince said col- patient’s voice is heard. under-funded mental health care. Chase estate, its future as a medical leagues had coped, but the delay The watchdog’s Steve Inett health serv- She told Downs Mail that al- centre looks dead in the water. in filling the vacancy had been said: “We hear from people ice”. though each year the NHS pro- The developer is now in talks frustrating for patients and prac- about GPs almost every day The chief ex- with Tonbridge and Malling Bor- tice staff. and often the stories are not vides millions with excellent care, ecutive of the ough Council with a view to get- A GP for 10 years, and married positive. shocking cases have emerged K e n w a r d ting a change of use on the practice. to a doctor, she said: “I work four “We hear about the chal- where patients have been treated Trust, which half-days a week, but often my lenges to make an appoint- appallingly. A spokesman said: “We can con- helps those re- morning surgery runs on until ment and frustrations about She adds: “Healthcare affects us firm that the shell of the doctor’s He said: “This is a vicious circle ple are queuing out of the door. covering from addiction to drink 2.30pm. how long they have to wait.” all, whether we’re patients our- surgery remains unoccupied, de- that needs to be addressed. It There are already plans to close all and drugs, including prescription “We come into the profession to be the first port of call and new He added: “We know this is selves or our families and friends. spite over three years of marketing. seems each party in this equation but two rooms of the high street drugs, says a 16% cut in funding with our eyes wide open. Of course relationships are developing where not always the case and we As a parent, I make regular trips “We are keen to enhance the vil- has done what was asked of them, surgery and make it available only over the last four years has been it would be fantastic to have more problems can be dealt with better know the CCG is aware of the to the GP with my children and lage centre by finding a suitable oc- but the Clinical Commissioning to those who cannot make it to “a false economy”. GPs, and its awful people have to and more quickly by others, leav- issues and looking at ways to occasional visits to A&E too. cupant for this unit, and are, Group hasn’t factored it in; it sim- Kings Hill.” “As a country, we now spend wait, but everyone who needs to ing doctors free to see those that make it easier for people to get “The major hospitals around therefore, opening discussions ply hasn’t come together and no- He conceded: “It could be that more money dealing with A&E see us gets to see a doctor.” need them. treatment nearer home. How- this area are all in difficulties and with the planning authority to ex- one is stepping up to remedy the one doctor would feel isolated admissions when we should be She added: “I don’t think it is all “We all need to work together ever, in the meantime, people many GP surgeries are full to plore the possibility of changing situation.” here, or it may be too costly, but trying to tackle the addiction that doom and gloom. We are learning because we are all living longer are continuing to find it diffi- bursting, with patients queuing at the use of the building.” He added: “I’m sure people this surgery could take patients lands people in hospital in the the doctor does not always need with more complex needs.” cult to see a GP in West Kent.” 8am for appointments.” The spokesman added that uses moved here because they were told from Ryarsh and West Malling and first place,” she says. To contact Healthwatch The MP admits the problem could include a restaurant, shop, it would have a doctor’s surgery. some of the pressure off their wait- “Meanwhile, we have a lack of Kent, call freephone 0808 801 isn’t limited to just West Kent, business or leisure facility – not Now, these new homeowners will ing lists. This all should have been GPs in Kent and NHS staff taking 0102 from 10am-4pm, Monday what those moving into the area join patients in West Malling, thought about at the beginning of almost 7,000 days off sick last year with “GPs and hospitals around Tell us your views to Friday, email info@health- were promised. which is already under enormous the planning process.” because of drug or alcohol abuse, the country struggling to cope”. How long do you have to wait for a doctor’s appointment? Are you watchkent.co.uk or write to Leybourne Borough councillor strain.” West Kent CCG said the practice much of it due to stress. She said: “It’s easy to be critical happy with the service provided by your GP practice? Healthwatch Kent, Church Nick Stapleton (pictured) believes Mr Stapleton, who is himself a provided by Taylor Wimpey had “With funding as it is, many but not necessarily helpful. I use Email your letters to us at [email protected], or write to the Road, Seabrooke House, there needs to be a champion to patient at West Malling Medical “not been identified by the NHS as life-saving services like ours will these services too, and I want the Editor at Downs Mail, 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Freepost RTLG-UBZB-JUZA, take up the cause if infrastructure Practice, said: “It’s almost impossi- required to deliver primary med- be forced to close. We need to stop NHS to provide excellent care to Park, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT. Ashford TN23 1RD. everyone who needs it.” promises fail to materialise. ble to get an appointment and peo- ical services”. this from happening.”

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Maidstone Weald October 2019 21 News | Brexit news downsmail.co.uk County’s facing ‘bad’ Brexit THE leader of the Liberal Democrats on Kent County Council has advised homeowners to stock up on food and vital provisions ahead of the withdrawal from Europe next month.

Cllr Rob Bird says a no-deal di- vorce from Europe, a lack of clar- ity on contingency plans, and Disruption with enforcement legislation still awaited, the prospects of so- called ‘B Day’ for Kent are grim. ‘minimised’ While Government suggests A LETTER from transport sec- “severe problems” lasting three to retary Grant Shapps (pictured) six months, Cllr Bird says signifi- on September 3, assured MPs cant disruption will be ongoing: its contin- “The Government seems to be liv- gency plans ing in La La Land, believing it can will min- do anything it likes without con- imise dis- sequence. Potentially, in the worst ruption and case scenario, things could go se- help reduce riously bad.” the impact It’s a fear shared by lorry driv- for residents ers who will be caught up in the by “ensur- border disruption. The Freight ing trucks Transport Association’s Kent divi- do not con- sion says important details are still gest the in short supply. local road network”. With 10,000 freight movements The letter continued: “Gov- a day across the Channel, the ernment takes the possible im- FTA’s policy director for the South pact of a no-deal Brexit on East, Heidi Skinner (pictured) local residents and businesses The M20 may be free flowing just now but a no-deal Brexit could bring says: “After three years of working in Kent very seriously.” with the Government, industry significant disruption, says Lib Dems’ leader Cllr Rob Bird A report to the Tory-con- still has uncertainty about what roads to queue jump were still not He added: “The NHS has some trolled Kent County Council paperwork will be needed. It is law. provision for key staff to stay in by leader Paul Carter com- vital that disruption to supply But, it was confident its arrange- hotels, but what about GPs, child mended the work so far, but chains is kept to a minimum. ments would keep the country minders and carers, and other vital continued to call for further “Industry needs more informa- moving, with Operation Fennell al- services that keep everything tools to manage the situation tion on the routes they can take, lowing up to 12,000 HGVs bound moving?”. including the extension of length of journey times and where for Dover and Eurotunnel to be “It’s impossible to mitigate for “yellow box” enforcement to to turn to for ‘parked’ in Kent. every impact but the closure of relieve critical junction pinch- help and sup- Cllr Bird believes the wider im- schools because of congestion, points and an assurance that port.” plications on services and resi- garages needing fuel, winter freight capacity has been se- When asked dents have not been considered weather and Christmas will all im- cured outside Kent, including by Downs Mail, enough: “Those living between pact the amount of people on the at airports. the Department junctions 8 and 9, possibly 9 and road and those trying to work Paul Carter added: “We are for Transport 11, of the M20, and at Manston within the extensive post-Brexit looking to address the remain- conceded addi- will undoubtedly be affected. arrangements.” ing ‘mission-critical’ issues tional powers to “That is without considering the ahead of the planned exit on turn back and very real possibility that road clo- Reporting by Dawn Kingsford October 31.” fine drivers sures could extend to both sides of using back the M20 and the M26. Local problems still unresolved FOOD supplies for the south east distribution of drinking water to that cannot come via Dover will be motorists during delays on the M20 directed to London Port, Felixstowe would be for other partner agen- and Southampton; cies; Pre-Brexit costs for Kent by the Hollingbourne Parish Council still end of the year are set to amount has no information about who or to another £1.2m; how waste and litter left by lorry Contractural arrangements for drivers on the M20 would be re- bringing in medicines have still to moved; be arranged; As Downs Mail went to press, South East Water director David Highways England confirmed the Hinton says the company will help coastbound J8 entry slip would be Operation Brock: The M20 contraflow between junctions 8 and 9 could in an emergency but arranging the closed for Operation Brock. see lorries parked on the coastbound carriageway and two-way traffic on the London-bound side 22 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News | Brexit news downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Meeting space MORRISON’S supermarket in County’s facing ‘bad’ Brexit Reality star Jake joins Sutton Road, Maidstone, is offer- ing up its space for community THE leader of the Liberal Democrats on Kent County Council has advised homeowners to stock up meetings. The scheme is designed to com- on food and vital provisions ahead of the withdrawal from Europe next month. panto cast for launch bat the cost of renting small ven- ues for local groups. The areas are Cllr Rob Bird says a no-deal di- THE Hazlitt Theatre launched its offered on weekdays from 9am- vorce from Europe, a lack of clar- Christmas family spectacular, 11am and 2pm-7pm. ity on contingency plans, and Disruption Beauty and the Beast, at . To book your space, contact with enforcement legislation still The Earl Street venue relies on its [email protected] awaited, the prospects of so- ‘minimised’ annual pantomime revenues to splc.co.uk. called ‘B Day’ for Kent are grim. support the other work it does, Hazlitt While Government suggests A LETTER from transport sec- much of it for community benefit. pantomime “severe problems” lasting three to retary Grant Shapps (pictured) The big star is former X-Factor fi- stars Sarah Crafts for sale six months, Cllr Bird says signifi- on September 3, assured MPs nalist and reality star Jake Quick- Hopper HEADCORN village hall is host- its contin- cant disruption will be ongoing: enden in “A Tale as Old as Time”. (Enchantress) ing the parish’s annual art, crafts “The Government seems to be liv- gency plans Now 30, he plays Danon with and gifts fair on Saturday, No- will min- and Jake ing in La La Land, believing it can Martha – Frances Henry (Beauty), Quickenden vember 2. do anything it likes without con- imise dis- David Zachary (D’jon), Ian Good (Danon) Doors will open for stall hold- sequence. Potentially, in the worst ruption and (Mademoiselle Marmalade) and ers at 8.30am, and the public from case scenario, things could go se- help reduce Sarah Hopper (Enchantress). director Martin Cleverley saying shine and a star-studded cast made 10am to 2pm. For more informa- riously bad.” the impact Jake, a former semi-professional I’d got the part and I jumped at the it a wonderful way to launch tion, call 01622 891559. It’s a fear shared by lorry driv- for residents footballer, said: “I can’t wait for chance.” Beauty and the Beast. ers who will be caught up in the by “ensur- Christmas in Maidstone – it will be Will joined the Hazlitt Youth “Our panto season is incredibly border disruption. The Freight ing trucks great to see all the family enjoy the Theatre aged 12, spending six hard work for everyone. It is also Value survey Transport Association’s Kent divi- do not con- show. There is something beautiful years there before moving on to the important to the bottom line each MAIDSTONE Borough Council is sion says important details are still gest the about children's laughter.” East 15 Acting School, where he year. It allows us the freedom to do inviting taxpayers to have their in short supply. local road network”. Maidstone lad Will Hodges (22), has just graduated. other things.” say about whether they think its With 10,000 freight movements The letter continued: “Gov- plays Danon’s sidekick DC, having A Hazlitt spokesman said: “It The Hazlitt Theatre, Earl Street, services are value for money. a day across the Channel, the ernment takes the possible im- graduated from the Hazlitt Youth was a fantastic setting to host a Maidstone ME14 1PP, November The authority is seeking views FTA’s policy director for the South pact of a no-deal Brexit on Theatre set-up. launch. Kent Life is one of the 30 until December 31, Call the box from residents ahead of formulat- East, Heidi Skinner (pictured) local residents and businesses county's most popular attractions. office on 01622 758611 or go to ing its policy and strategies for The M20 may be free flowing just now but a no-deal Brexit could bring The former Maidstone Grammar says: “After three years of working in Kent very seriously.” School pupil said: “I got a call from “A top venue, the beautiful sun- www.hazlitttheatre.com. 2020. with the Government, industry significant disruption, says Lib Dems’ leader Cllr Rob Bird A report to the Tory-con- still has uncertainty about what roads to queue jump were still not He added: “The NHS has some trolled Kent County Council paperwork will be needed. It is law. provision for key staff to stay in by leader Paul Carter com- vital that disruption to supply But, it was confident its arrange- hotels, but what about GPs, child mended the work so far, but chains is kept to a minimum. ments would keep the country minders and carers, and other vital continued to call for further “Industry needs more informa- moving, with Operation Fennell al- services that keep everything tools to manage the situation Independent Financial Advice tion on the routes they can take, lowing up to 12,000 HGVs bound moving?”. including the extension of Independent Financial Advice length of journey times and where for Dover and Eurotunnel to be “It’s impossible to mitigate for “yellow box” enforcement to to turn to for ‘parked’ in Kent. every impact but the closure of relieve critical junction pinch- Retirement Specialists help and sup- Cllr Bird believes the wider im- schools because of congestion, points and an assurance that Retirement Specialists port.” plications on services and resi- garages needing fuel, winter freight capacity has been se- Providing advice on Company Pensions and When asked dents have not been considered weather and Christmas will all im- cured outside Kent, including ProvidingPersonal Pe ansidviocens on. Company Pensions (including by Downs Mail, enough: “Those living between pact the amount of people on the at airports. Final Salary Schemes) and Personal Pensions. the Department junctions 8 and 9, possibly 9 and road and those trying to work Paul Carter added: “We are Also providing advice on Investments, Personal for Transport 11, of the M20, and at Manston within the extensive post-Brexit looking to address the remain- Also providing advice on Investments, Personal ing ‘mission-critical’ issues Protection (life cover etc.), Estate / Inheritance Tax conceded addi- will undoubtedly be affected. arrangements.” Protection (life cover etc.), Estate / Inheritance Tax tional powers to “That is without considering the ahead of the planned exit on Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. turn back and very real possibility that road clo- Reporting by Dawn Kingsford October 31.” Planning, Wills, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. fine drivers sures could extend to both sides of We offer advice across a wide range of services using back the M20 and the M26. 01622 391 444 including investments, savings, mortgages [email protected] W(inclue offdering adv Eqiuceit ya crossReleas ae )w andide protrangece tiofo ns.e Wrvei cesare 01622 391 444 Local problems still unresolved inclcommittudinged inv to eputtingstments, clients savings, at th me ohrtgearta gofes and www.handffinancial.co.uk everything we do and to developing long-term [email protected] FOOD supplies for the south east distribution of drinking water to protection. We are committed to putting clients relationships with our clients. This is achieved by that cannot come via Dover will be motorists during delays on the M20 at the heart of everything we do and to www.handffinH&F Financiala Limnciaitel.cdo.uk ensuring that we understand the individual needs directed to London Port, Felixstowe would be for other partner agen- developing long-term relationships with our Granville House and Southampton; cies; cofli eantchs. cliThient,s i sa ndac hievto impled ebmy eenntingsuring tailor thated we financial plans to address those needs. H&FGranv Finillea Roanciald Limited Pre-Brexit costs for Kent by the Hollingbourne Parish Council still understand the individual needs of each client, end of the year are set to amount Maidstone has no information about who or aMndortgag to imple ore Emqeuntingity Releas tailoreded from fin ayouncri ahlo plmaen wills to b e Suite 1B to another £1.2m; how waste and litter left by lorry secured against it FKenredert ick House Contractural arrangements for drivers on the M20 would be re- address those needs. bringing in medicines have still to moved; BrMEewer14 2B StreJ et Contact us for a free consultation be arranged; As Downs Mail went to press, Ctoo ntalookc ta tu yso forur optiona free sco. nsultation Maidstone South East Water director David Highways England confirmed the Operation Brock: The M20 contraflow between junctions 8 and 9 could to look at your options. Kent, ME14 1RY Hinton says the company will help coastbound J8 entry slip would be Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority - No 778297 in an emergency but arranging the closed for Operation Brock. see lorries parked on the coastbound carriageway and two-way traffic on A company registered in England & Wales. Registered Company - No 10057458 the London-bound side Maidstone Weald October 2019 23 News downsmail.co.uk Drunk driver hit a tree after night out Council admits tax rise A DRUNKEN sales consultant crashed her company car into a tree nearly three times the drink drive limit after a night out after is ‘under consideration’ work, a court heard. A witness had seen Elsbeth COUNCIL taxpayers face a hike meeting held on July 23 when it Pope (25) swerve into the tree in in rates next year, the borough has was requested to include zero per Ulcombe Hill on July 18 and sus- admitted. cent council tax increase and rais- pected she had been drinking. The Liberal Democrat-led au- ing it in line with inflation within The court heard Pope lost her job thority is currently “scenario plan- that planning. MBC will provide as a result of the offence and is ning” and a request has already information to councillors to allow “struggling” to come to terms with been made for a zero increase next those and other options to be con- being unemployed. year. sidered – which will also include Prosecuting, Julie Farbrace said: Finance chiefs will take into ac- raising Council Tax to the referen- “At around 10pm, a member of the count the cost of providing serv- dum limit for the year. public saw Miss Pope’s Fiat Abarth ices, improvements in “efficiency” “All options will also consider swerving across the road and hit- and its ambitions to generate more the ambitions set out in the MBC ting a tree. A roadside breath test income. Strategic Plan including service indicated she was 91mg, nearly All councillors were briefed re- cost pressures, efficiency improve- three times the limit.” cently by the council’s senior offi- ment and income generation.” Maidstone Magistrates Court cers about the council’s strategy Marden councillor David Burton heard Pope had gone to the Malta going forward. It is not known said it was “too early” to call for a Inn for dinner and drinks after what the likely increase would be council tax freeze and his group work. Defending, Tobias Burroughs until the Government of the day are studying the detail of the coun- the MBC full council meeting cur- said: “She was about to leave work sets the national upper limit. cil’s finances. rently scheduled for February 26, when her friends invited her out But the decision is likely to be He added: “But I am a Conser- 2020, with recommendations taken where she had two large glasses of made along party political lines vative, so, of course, I do believe in from the Policy and Resources wine. with the outcome an issue for de- cutting taxes.” Committee Meeting of February “She says she felt okay to drive bate before the May elections. Langley Tory Wendy Young, pic- 12, 2020. MBC is currently scenario when she got in her car, but she is A Maidstone Borough Council tured, said it would be “pre- planning - as reported to the Pol- thankful she wasn’t injured and did- spokesman said: “The decision re- ferrable” if residents were spared icy and Resources Committee n’t injure anybody else. The com- garding council tax will be made at another rise in 2020. pany car she was driving is a write- off and her bosses were not im- pressed. Lions’ 60 years “She feels she let her family, friends and boss down. Her em- of fundraising ployers have told her she can’t do MAIDSTONE Lions’ Club has cele- her job without a car. She is strug- brated its 60th anniversary by tak- gling to come to terms with being ing a cruise aboard The Kentish unemployed.” Lady on the River Medway. Chairman of the bench, Jacqueline During the cruise, President David Curtis said: “This could’ve ended Frost (left) received a certificate of very differently.” appreciation on behalf of the club Pope, of The Acorns, Smarden, from south east district governor admitted drink driving and was David Butler OBE, who thanked the given a 12 month community club members for all their efforts order, 40 hours unpaid work and a over the years in raising in excess of £175 fine. She was also disqualified £1m funding local, national and in- from driving for 24 months. ternational projects. Share plans for organ donation A CAMPAIGN to encourage around organ donation is chang- only 40% had shared their deci- important to talk to your families people in Kent to donate their or- ing in England. sion with a loved one. about your views. gans to save the lives of others From spring 2020, all adults in Anthony Clarkson, director of “Register your organ donation has been hitting the road. England will be considered as Organ Donation and Transplan- decision on the NHS Organ Organ Donation Week, which having agreed to donate their tation for NHS Blood and Trans- Donor Register and tell your ran from September 2 to 8, was own organs when they die, un- plant, said: “We need more family. If the time comes, we designed to increase the number less they record a decision not to people in Kent to talk about know families find the organ do- of donors in the county. donate or are in one of the ex- organ donation to increase the nation conversation with nurses In 2018, more than 120 people cluded groups. number of transplants. or medical teams much easier if in Kent had their lives saved by a A recent survey for NHS Blood “Even after the law around they already know what their rel- transplant but 100 are still wait- and Transplant found that while organ donation changes next ative wanted.” ing for that life-saving call. 84% agreed it was important to year, families will still be ap- Find out more and join the The campaign aimed to high- let those closest to you know proached before organ donation NHS Organ Donor Register at light that next year, the law your views on organ donation, goes ahead. So it remains very www.organdonation.nhs.uk and

24 Maidstone Weald October 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Drunk driver hit a tree after night out Council admits tax rise Call for the A DRUNKEN sales consultant crashed her company car into a tree nearly three times the drink drive limit after a night out after is ‘under consideration’ work, a court heard. A witness had seen Elsbeth COUNCIL taxpayers face a hike meeting held on July 23 when it Pope (25) swerve into the tree in in rates next year, the borough has was requested to include zero per CollectionPrompt Ulcombe Hill on July 18 and sus- admitted. cent council tax increase and rais- The Liberal Democrat-led au- ing it in line with inflation within GREAT SAVINGS ON WINDOWS pected she had been drinking. Fast The court heard Pope lost her job thority is currently “scenario plan- that planning. MBC will provide DOORS AND CONSERVATORIES as a result of the offence and is ning” and a request has already information to councillors to allow Delivery D.TD.T “struggling” to come to terms with been made for a zero increase next those and other options to be con- 5 WINDOWS £1510 FITTED being unemployed. year. sidered – which will also include Prosecuting, Julie Farbrace said: Finance chiefs will take into ac- raising Council Tax to the referen- count the cost of providing serv- dum limit for the year. SKIPSKIP HIREHIRE “At around 10pm, a member of the public saw Miss Pope’s Fiat Abarth ices, improvements in “efficiency” “All options will also consider Over 20 Years Experience swerving across the road and hit- and its ambitions to generate more the ambitions set out in the MBC ting a tree. A roadside breath test income. 01622Stra te753618gic Plan including service indicated she was 91mg, nearly All councillors were briefed re- cost pressures, efficiency improve- three times the limit.” cently by the council’s senior offi- ment and income generation.” T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 Maidstone Magistrates Court cers about the council’s strategy Marden councillor David Burton & 12 Yard Bins heard Pope had gone to the Malta going forward. It is not known said it was “too early” to call for a Inn for dinner and drinks after what the likely increase would be council tax freeze and his group T Covering Maidstone work. Defending, Tobias Burroughs until the Government of the day are studying the detail of the coun- the MBC full council meeting cur- & The Weald said: “She was about to leave work sets the national upper limit. cil’s finances. rently scheduled for February 26, when her friends invited her out But the decision is likely to be He added: “But I am a Conser- T 2020, with recommendations taken EA Registered where she had two large glasses of made along party political lines vative, so, of course, I do believe in from the Policy and Resources wine. with the outcome an issue for de- cutting taxes.” T Fast & Prompt Service £600 Committee Meeting of February “She says she felt okay to drive bate before the May elections. Langley Tory Wendy Young, pic- £660 12, 2020. MBC is currently scenario T Commercial when she got in her car, but she is A Maidstone Borough Council tured, said it would be “pre- planning - as reported to the Pol- £960 thankful she wasn’t injured and did- spokesman said: “The decision re- ferrable” if residents were spared & Domestic icy and Resources Committee £980 n’t injure anybody else. The com- garding council tax will be made at another rise in 2020. pany car she was driving is a write- A QUALITY SERVICE YOU CAN RELY ON! off and her bosses were not im- 01622 843511 pressed. Lions’ 60 years CALL US FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE & ADVICE: “She feels she let her family, 01233 623721 friends and boss down. Her em- of fundraising Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ 0800 7839661 ployers have told her she can’t do MAIDSTONE Lions’ Club has cele- her job without a car. She is strug- brated its 60th anniversary by tak- gling to come to terms with being ing a cruise aboard The Kentish unemployed.” Medway BlindLady on tshe R&iver MCurtainedway. s DO YOU NEED Chairman of the bench, Jacqueline During the cruise, President David Curtis said: “This could’ve ended Frost (left) received a certificate of PLANNING PERMISSION OR very differently.” appreciation on behalf of the club Pope, of The Acorns, Smarden, from south east district governor BUILDING REGULATIONS FOR AN admitted drink driving and was David Butler OBE, who thanked the given a 12 month community club members for all their efforts order, 40 hours unpaid work and a over the years in raising in excess of EXTENSION, LOFT CONVERSION £175 fine. 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Maidstone Weald October 2019 25

Maidstone Weald October 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk

O b i t u a r e s Keith Patey ordinator, then crime reduction officer at days completing the Times Cryptic Maidstone Police Station, before finally Crossword. We will remember her as a KEITH Byron Patey (69) lived locally his retiring in 2005. Colleagues remember him loving and generous mother and whole life, spending his final 41 years as a true gentleman, with a great sense of grandmother .” living on the Vinters Park estate. humour, always willing to help anyone. Marion – who was widowed in 2006 – Brought up in Shepway, Keith a�ended He enjoyed an active retirement with his leaves her daughters, grandchildren Parkway School followed by wife Be�y, often walking in Mote Park. He Amy, Elliot, Sam, Alex, Lydia and Lara Southborough was particularly proud when they climbed and twin great-grandaughters Emma and Juniors and Snowdon, in Wales, in 2008. Amelia. Southborough He was a devoted family man and loved Seniors before taking playing with his grandchildren. Bryan his apprenticeship. leaves his wife Be�y, daughters Karen and Dave Manser Keith worked in Tracey and grandchildren Dan, Josh, Peter THE sudden death of motorcycle design for Reed’s and Rebecca. Corrugated Cases, enthusiast Dave Manser (66) in Herne later serving as Bay prompted a reaction from bikers special products Marion Cole across the county. manager. He retired Dave, who worked as a lorry driver, at 52, but returned within six months MARION Cole (87) lived in Aylesford was found dead by because his specialist skills were required from 1973 until her death on July 2. Cheryl, his wife of 35 by the company. He finally retired aged Born Marion Slaughter in London, she years, on 30 July, 58. grew up in Greenwich and after meeting having failed to Keith was married to Christina for and marrying Peter, her husband of 51 come to bed the almost 46 years, and was father to Kiri and years, Marion previous night. Karla. Christina said: “Keith was an easy- moved with him to He was father to going man who was generally happy and west Africa. Bre�, Anthony and very friendly. Outside of his family, his Daughters Amanda Colin. main passion was cricket and he played and Sally were born Recent ill health for teams including his school, Aylesford in the intervening had forced his Paper Mill and West Farleigh. years before the retirement. “Keith also played in the KM and David family returned to His funeral at Barham, near Clarke Evening League and for a time the UK and se�led Canterbury, on 14 August included a played for Godlands in Tovil. He also locally in Maidstone motorcycle escort made up of bikers loved sport on television, especially darts, where Marion from around the county after Cheryl had snooker and Formula One motor racing.” worked as an accountant for Kimberley used the news media and social media to Keith leaves his wife, daughters and Clark. ask for as many people as possible to grandchildren Poppie, Jacob, Harry, Kaine The family moved to Aylesford in 1973 take part in the event. and Oliver. where Marion will be remembered for Dave leaves his wife, sons and 11 her years of service in the parish of St grandchildren. Peter & St Paul’s Church, Aylesford, and Bryan Dewar her 16 years of service as a Conservative councillor for the Borough of Tonbridge Don Bramall BRYAN Dewar (72) lived in Spot Lane for and Malling. She was made mayor in more than 40 years. He joined Kent Police DONALD ‘Don’ Bramall (87) was a 1993 and was given the freedom of the resident of Bearsted for 50 years and in 1968, retiring as an inspector in 1998. borough in 1996. Marion’s time in local His career included service at well-known locally, particularly from government included a particular some 40 years as a member of Bearsted Gillingham and interest in housing and she served on the Sheerness, Traffic Golf Club. local housing association in Tonbridge Born and educated in Sheffield, Don Division at and Malling. Canterbury, graduated in metallurgy from Sheffield Daughter Amanda said: “My mother university. He moved to work locally at Maidstone and was incredibly compassionate and Ashford; Operations the end of the 1970s, spending 20 years in helped so many people. She had a lively engineering including with English Centre, Driving and intelligent mind and a thirst for School and Training Electric (now GEC) and Ashford-based knowledge – in the last years of her life MPE Electrical. School. On retirement teaching beginners Latin for the he became CCTV co- Don was father to University of the Third Age, and on most Helen, Philip and Jane. His son Philip said; “Our father had a full social life Camrass Wills including many Advice you can trust happy years as an active member of Do you need help with probate? Bearsted Golf Club. He lost his original Do you want to buy a funeral plan? Yorkshire accent but remained proud of where he came from. • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed He will be remembered as someone with DipPFS MSWW a strong work ethic and a�ention to detail.” 01622 720985 Don, who was widowed, leaves his www.camrasswills.co.uk children, six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

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

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P Broomfield and Kingswood that there appeared to have been a trees on Beacon Field and Middle Field, a r i s h decline in flytipping. along with the village hall land, and the School buses Carrs had withdrawn their Village hall The hall had been repainted costs will be shared. service from Kingswood to Lenham, so internally, had new windows and a new Biodiversity Cllr Ernest Small is to be the

C children now hadan hour journey via car park. The rates had been increased for lead councillor for biodiversity and will o u n c i l s Bearsted to Lenham School. Cllr hirers from outside the village. contact the Green Planet Action Group. Prendergast asked that concerns were Shop The Shop on the Green was Open spaces Cllr Christopher Bird will shared on the Facebook page. suffering from a lack of volunteers, and be the parish council’s open spaces Speed limit Cllr Prendergast was had had to close while volunteers were representative and will report on any working with Ulcombe PC on extending on holiday. Detling and Smarden had issues relating to parish council-owned the 30mph speed limit on the Lenham both looked at how the shop was run and land. Road to Wents Service Station. Most were impressed by it. Li�er pick Village li�er picks were due to residents were supportive of the 30mph Wellness centre The centre was doing take place on September 26 and 29. limit. Ulcombe had Speedwatch very well. The idea of adding a café had equipment which the parish council stalled, due to access difficulties. might be able to borrow. Green Lane Cllr Webb reported on the Langley Parish office The parish council was recent work carried out on Green Lane Police report There had been a number planning for a community centre with a by Highway Services. The posts and rails of thefts from sheds and outbuilding in parish office, and was looking into were still on order, so work had not been August and early September. It was buying or building a property that was completed. suggested that this should be highlighted accessible and could provide smaller Ba�le of Britain The service had gone in the next newsle�er and on the website. meeting rooms, a drop-in coffee shop and well, with a large crowd. The flypast was Play area Work to install the new play an office for the clerk and RFO. The good, but the church was not as full as it equipment was due to start. village hall commi�ee did not believe had been in the past. The retiring Village hall The new CCTV system had that extending the hall or building in the collection raised £197. The farmer was been fi�ed and was working. The roof grounds was acceptable. installing fencing to protect the memorial works had been finished and the final Play area A quote was accepted for three from farming activity. tranche of grant funding from Biffa had pull latch locks for the play area gates. Play area The new dome had now been been applied for. Weekend bookings had The clerk would advise Jackson’s installed. seen a notable increase and two new Fencing. Warmlake Road Speeding should be football teams (men and juniors) were Sports field A quote was accepted for enforced by the police. Extra signs at the using the changing rooms and the another sign in the field. The clerk would point of the speed limit change were to recreation ground. inform Maidstone Signs. The cargo net be investigated at both Warmlake Road on the multi timber unit had been fixed and Amber Lane to deter vehicles and the missing cap on the red fence was speeding through the village. Marden with the handyman for fi�ing. The clerk Chart Hill Road Traffic calming PCSO Nicola Morris gave was in the process of ge�ing another measures could not be implemented as Police report an update on crimes reported over the piece of equipment repaired and was there were no streetlights. No further previous month. There had been one hoping it could be fixed under warranty. action would be taken. a�empted burglary, a burglary and an It was agreed to ascertain the cost of Drain clearance The crossroads at Chart arson. There had also been seven reports ge�ing a security firm to open and close Corner were scheduled for investigation of anti-social behaviour. PCSO Morris the gates. by CCTV. Susan Laporte would ask the encouraged people to call 101 to report Crime figures Nine iron gates had been drainage team to investigate the drains at any incidents. Any incidents at the stolen from a field in the grounds of Marshalls Corner as the drain may be station should be reported to British Leeds Castle. Various items had been damaged. stolen during a break-in at in industrial Transport Police. property in Gravelly Bo�om Road. Survey The analysis of over 200 survey Li�er picking All the equipment had Coxheath responses had been finalised and was been bought, apart from the signs. It was circulated. There had been 30 volunteers Speed limit The request for agreed that the RFO should buy large to help with events and the deputy clerk consideration of a 20 mph speed limit warning signs that could be placed on the asked to be able to contact them. This outside Coxheath Primary School was roadside when li�er picking was taking was agreed. It was also agreed to place progressing. feedback in the newsle�er and on place. School parking Cllr Jan Webb and Cllr Facebook. The two clerks would hold a Cherry picker It was agreed to find out Valerie Page met Maidstone Borough surgery at the village café and the sub- the cost of a 15m cherry-picker for the Council’s parking services manager to commi�ee would meet again to discuss CCTV pole. discuss parking outside the village school the suggestions. Footpath sign Cllr Hoy had put up a new and other village locations. Newsle�er The clerk would obtain permissive footpath sign at the entrance Highways A Highways Improvement quotes for printing and would submit to the sports field. Plan has been submi�ed to KCC them to the finance commi�ee. Highways. Social media The deputy clerk had Defibrillator The parish council agreed drafted a statement on how to contact the Chart Su�on to the purchase of a defibrillator and the council, what information was available Police ma�ers PCSO reported that there Londis store kindly agreed this could be and where to find it. It was agreed to had been two crimes in July: two garage placed outside its shop. place this on the Facebook page. break-ins in Amber Lane and Norton Local plan The parish council has Air sensors A resident had asked if the Road. There had been two crimes in submi�ed its response to Maidstone parish council could consider clean air August: An a�empted burglary in Borough Council’s Local Plan Review – sensors. The clerk had contacted MBC for Norton Road and a shed burglary in Scoping Themes and Issues document. further information and was awaiting a Plough Wents Road. There had also been Noticeboards A total of five noticeboards response. two reports of anti-social behaviour. are to be refurbished. VE Day It was proposed to hold a three- PCSO Gardner continued to show a Bollards It was agreed to purchase four day event where village organisations presence in Chart Hill Road to deter replacement bollards for the village could run their own events. A timetable speeding. centre. would be produced for residents. It was Chairman’s report Cllr Forknall noted Trees A survey will be conducted on proposed that the council would have its

28 Maidstone Weald September 2019 downsmail.co.uk

own event on May 9, at Southons Field schedule of work activity prepared by stolen from a business; a catalytic P which would be a family picnic with the clerk, who asked that all councillors converter stolen from a vehicle on a farm a r i s h music and fancy dress with a 1940s inform him of any planned activity. andpolytunnels damaged. The meeting theme. Donations on the day would go to Speed limit Cllr Buller sought heard PCSO Chivers would be leaving the RBL. This was agreed in principle, information that the road safety group and might not be replaced immediately. C subject to the deputy clerk obtaining should proceed with the survey about the Highways An engineer had visited Ke�le o u n c i l s costs. It was agreed to share timetables 20mph limit zone as mentioned in the Lane and the potholes reported were with Staplehurst PC. public forum, which was agreed. dips in the road. No action would be Pa�enden Lane Parking restrictions were taken as the road was marked as agreed and would need to be signed off unsuitable for vehicles. Cllr Swan said it by the county councillor, but it was West Farleigh was very dangerous for dog walkers and the clerk was asked to contact Highways hoped they would be in place later in the Village in Bloom The judges had visited again. year. the village and suggested leaving the Layby White hatching lines would be Chantry Road Cllr Adam had circulated grass to grow longer to encourage added to the layby in Lower Road in a photographs of bollards in the footpath wildflowers. The area around the play bid to move the car back from its current in Chantry Road. The clerk had reported area and goal post could be kept short. It position. Fold down bollards might be this to Kent Highways. was agreed to discuss the various another option. Crossing lights The clerk was asked to options. It was noted that the areas chase Kent Highways again regarding Bridge Jennie Watson said around the play area and benches had nothing would be done to resolve the the Church Green crossing lights. not been strimmed on the last cut and the Public transport The clerk was asked to current issues. This was said to be clerk was asked to contact MBC about disappointing as the bridge was a historic chase Southeastern and Network Rail this. again to ask if S106 money had been monument that was being damaged by Speeding A resident read out a le�er oversized vehicles. received by them regarding the cycle about speeding on Lower Road which storage. The parish council thanked Community centre The possibility of a suggested East Farleigh was ge�ing a timber-framed building, bought as a Southeastern for the flower beds at the be�er service from KCC than West station. package, was discussed and was thought Farleigh. East Farleigh PC had needed to to be the way forward. A loan may need take out a loan for approximately £65,000 to be taken from the Public Works Loan Staplehurst for the works. The scheme was not Board, but repayments could be covered working as the highway planners had by the annual lambing day. Cllr Martin Parish council surgery Cllr Perry had said it would – KCC said the scheme said the centre would help to form the discussed a planning issue and an needed six months to bed in. Jennie “heart of the village”. environmental protection ma�er. Cllr Watson from Highway Services said Coffee mornings The last parish council Sharp volunteered to a�end the further road markings were needed on coffee morning was said to be poorly September surgery. The October surgery Lower Road. The parish council had a�ended. It was agreed to send a would be held at the 125-year celebration looked into speed indicator devices but questionnaire to parishioners to ascertain of parish councils event at the Village Ms Watson said a traffic survey would be whether to continue. centre on October 26. required. This would cost about £200. A Broadband A resident has raised Village Update The clerk was pu�ing resident raised concerns that there was concerns about broadband in the village. together an autumn edition of the Update speeding at least four nights a week, in The clerk provided links to the which would feature councillor profiles the early hours of the morning, causing a Community Fibre Partnership and and the 125-year celebration event. Cllr noise nuisance. The resident was various voucher schemes. It was felt this Walsh volunteered to proof-read it. encouraged to report this to the police on would be a very good scheme and Cllr Clerk’s report The clerk said there had every occasion. The PCSO said he was Pritchard offered to be a point of contact. been a positive meeting with Growing conducting speed checks. Drains Cllr Martin reported that the Concern. He had sought information Police ma�ers One crime had been issue with drains on Smiths Hill had been from Play Place about the feedback and reported in the village since the last rectified and he was pleased to the see costs of the summer play scheme. The meeting. A container had been broken that the road was to be resurfaced. Cllr parish office had received a large number into in the sports club but nothing had Sco� commented that he believed it was of planning enquiries. He was still been taken. Six crimes in the surrounding to be redressed. awaiting confirmation that MBC’s area included the theft of a Land Rover Defibrillator Some maintenance had had solicitors had agreed the final version of from a driveway; jewellery stolen in a to be completed at a cost of about £40. It the Surrenden Playing Field lease. break-in at a home; a break-in at a was agreed to send out the cheque once Community payback Members noted the caravan in the grounds of a home; tools all the receipts had been submi�ed.

A LAWN mower and fishing equipment C r i m e were stolen in a shed break-in at a home in Plough Wents Road, Chart Su�on. Neighbourhood Watch A laptop was stolen from a house in The

Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police r

Priory, East Farleigh. e p o r t s A vehicle was damaged in New Road, The windscreen of a taxi was damaged in Nissan X-Trail were smashed in Kenward Headcorn. Four Oaks Road, Headcorn. Road, Yalding. Somebody broke into a shed at a house in Various items were stolen from an There was an a�empt to break into a Station Hill, East Farleigh, and stole a black outbuilding at a house in Claygate, building in Staplehurst Road, Marden. triathlon racing bike with Richard Cooper Marden. An outbuilding was broken into in wri�en on it. A black and gold Voodoo There was a break-in at a house in Love Couchman Green Lane, Staplehurst. mountain bike was also stolen. Lane, Headcorn. Somebody tried to break the diesel tank There was a break-in at a house in A gate, including the padlocks and of a Mercedes Sprinter in Kenward Road, Springe� Way, Coxheath. chains,was stolen from a farm in Pye Yalding. Tyres were slashed on a vehicle in Corner, Ulcombe. There was a break-in at a business unit in Bensted Close, Hunton. Jewellery was amongst items stolen from Pa�enden Lane, Marden. Both number plates were stolen from a a house in Mill Bank, Headcorn. The number plates were stolen from a vehicle in Cornwallis Avenue, Linton. The rear windscreens of a VW and a vehicle in Butcher Close, Staplehurst.

Maidstone Weald October 2019 29 Classifieds downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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M: 07812 921748 T Pruning FREE 24 hour call & emergency T Fencing Oven cleaning from just £49 work carried out straight away Please call James on T Free Bark E:[email protected] Mulsh 01622 616168 CRB checked, Checkatrade approved www.ovenwizards.com Electricians ARBOUR EPIC NO JOB TOO TREE SURGERY LANDSCAPES BIG OR SMALL ‘Trust your local experts’ ELECTRICIAN All Aspects of Tree Work ATLANTIC ELECTRICAL Felling • Pruning • Fencing • Treework • Turfing • Decking• Levelling Ground For all your electrical needs Hedge Cutting • Patios • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf • Water Features Fuseboards, Re-wires, Certificates Stump Grinding • Clearance • Driveways Fully Insured and Qualified NICEIC Part P registered Free No Obligation Written Quotation Free Estimates, Friendly Service 01622 759119 07771 970570 For a free site survey call: Fully insured, 25yrs Experience www.arbourtreesurgery.co.ukElectricians01622 527106 07788 532926Gardening Services continued Call Steve 01622 747257 Mobile 07985 474176 Est. in B.G ElectricalIRELAND Contractors1993 Uplands, Halstow Cl, Maidstone ME15 9XA est. 1997 0$,'6721( Est. in 1993 Domestic-Commercial-IndustrialLANDSCAPES 20% Any Electrical work undertaken /$1'6&$3(6 discount* J Norris Electrical Contractor All Types of Hard & Soft Landscapes Allll ttypeson production of Ha of this advertrd & Sofftt Landscapes Natural & Concrete Paving & Patios * not to be used in All aspects of • Part P To See Our Full Range visit 3523(57< • Patios, Paving Roadsconjunction & with D anyri otherves • Concrete Bases & Stable Bases Block Paving, Fencing, Concrete Bases • Patios, Paving Roads offers& Drives • Concrete Bases & Stable Bases domestic electrical certification bgelectrical-maidstone.co.uk Sales Turfing, Groundwork, Jungles Cleared. 6(59,&(6/WG • Fencing & Gates • • Jungles Cleared work undertaken provided All Work Guaranteed, • Fencing & Gates • • Jungles Cleared by a trusted and SalesFree Advice& &Services Quotations LANDSCAPING - Drives, Patios, Pathways, Brick/Stone Walls, Block/Stone Paving, Services qualified • All work NIC Call Paul on 01622 844605 Tarmac, Decking, Fencing, Turfing, Ponds, Water Features, Garden Clearance, & electrician with 20 approved and NICEICor 07767 Part P 683747registered Sheds/Summer & Play House Bases, Tree Surgery etc years experience. certified Basedor in email: Bearsted BUILDING WORKS - Extensions, Porches, Conservatories, Garages, Groundworks,RING PAUL ON [email protected] Roofing, PVC Windows, Doors, Soffits, Fascias, Floor/Wall Tiling, Decorating etc - Free no obligation quotes All servicing work 01622 for737750 free estimate 01622 844605 or 07767 683747 - No job too large or small FULLY INSURED/WORK GUARANTEED, VERYundertaken, PROFESSIONAL/FRIENDLY SERVICEfor free estimate. 07768 957 456 Top Quality Materials/Workmanship from design to completion - FREE ESTIMATESfor free estimate. Tel: 07966 511408 Ltd diagnostics, Tel: 01634 920598 Fencing Services GardeningTel: Services 01622 851222 Mob: 07786 07 01 07 Logs Sales E-mail: [email protected] mechanical and E: [email protected] repairs, Services DS LANDSCAPESwww.maidstonelandscapes.comMOT preparation & LOOK: Please check our reviews and other BMW & BMW Fencing “At your service”GARDENING - FENCING - LANDSCAPINGcompanies youand may winter use at www.uktc.org checks. Maidstone Established 1990 Director: M Potter Cherry Tree Business Estate, Plough01622 Wents 809840 Road, - 07387 816196 Sky Vac Gutter Cleaning/ Professional jet ALL TYPES – Chart Sutton, Maidstone, ME17 3RY Over 25 years experience. Mini SpecialistSucks Your Gutters Clean washing services at REPAIR/RENEW & Malling’s B.T. ENVIRONMENTAL£100 load - £125 load. Bulk Bags LTD £45 Est. 25 YEARS Locksmith • Saves using expensive access equipment affordable prices: FREE ESTIMATES No. 1 newspaper Tel. 01622 200333/07875 579692 • Reaches up to five storey’s high • Driveways & Paths Prompt 01622 232860 07931 368710 Collection J Merchant PlumbingFreephone & Heating 0800 6942024• Reaches those awkward places • Block paving www.iwallondfencingcontractors.co.uk D.T [email protected] FastFAIRVIEW FARM HOMEFRESH Throughout the South• Camera East and video footage • Patios • Walls Free no obligation TREEA MAINTENANCE J GRANT & GARDEN SERVICES  24 hour service  locks opened  new locks fitted  security checks Local plumber and heatingwww.bt-environmental.com engineerCarpets with 39+(Average) years Normal rate• SpecialPrices ratefrom £30 • Graffiti removal quotations • DGeneralforeli av eryhelping builderSKIP hand with:- HIRE emergency work undertaken  UPVCCARPET door & window & repairs Fence me in & alot more • All generalTREE building SURGERY: work T: 01622 755750 M: 07738 658751in the job, who strivesMaidstone to provide & KentprofessionalSingle Room (12’ service. x 12’) £42 £21 CROWNOver REDUCTION, 20 Years Experience FELLING, UPHOLSTERY Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 All types of Fencing & Gates • Extensions renovations 3 TPlainsSkip Avenue, Hire Maidstone3, 4, 6 ME15 7ATI am awww.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk long-time member of the charteredHall, Stairs institute & Landing of £56 £28 Installed & Repairs PRUNING, HEDGE & SHRUB - & 12 Yard Bins • PatiosTRIMMING,Prices paving from CLEARANCE £110+VAT plumbingSeasonedCLEANING and heating Har dwoodengineers and UpholsteryLogs have been gas All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, SEASONED LOGS SUPPLIED, T Covering Maidstone Plumbing & Tiling Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. • Rag stone and brick walls & The Weald safe registered (formally Corgi) since3 piece 1990. suite £84 £42 01622MOWING 843511(lawns) Logs OFFER 50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 Dr. Tiles Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, http://www.andy-grant.co.uk/FULLY INSURED T EA Registered BathroomDiscount Installation (City & Guilds Mr Jamie Merchant Curtains Tiling & Building Maintenance Hedge Cutting etc. 0797171586601233For a friendly •623721 01622 & NPTC685198 qualified) T Fast & Prompt Service LNoogman hidden extras - All& refurbishment, Energy Call Colin on 07521 professionalSunnybridge serviceFarm, Watery & adviceLane, T Commercial 01622prices inclusive 751475 of VAT 07971 886949Full length £74 £37 [email protected] Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ & Domestic DAVIDHalf Length COX £42 £21 •Plastering •Friendly, reliable, 377306 or 01622 853978 Please call:- 01622 743428 – [email protected] kindling – with every double load FREE Mob:- 07817 517 733 Sales NO OBLIGATION •Painting & Decorating clean & tidy worker. Four-year seasoned apple logsMobile: 07701024078 [email protected] QUOTE •Laminate Flooring •City & Guilds DAVID WYNN Services£100 load – £125 load Home: 01622 730960 For all makes of •Home Improvements qualified & www.logmaneneSoutheastgroundworksrgy.co.uk 07804 01474Any moisture test welcome on delivery.E: [email protected] burning Stoves 927680 •Tiling •Fully insured GREEN MAN Also other hardwoodsMobDriveways, available 0773468 patios, council 0671A approved.P.S Ltd and Open Fires Tree & Garden Services 812005 FREE ESTIMATES Call Danny on 07450 876363 or email: [email protected] FREE DELIVERY – FREE forSTACKING drop crossings, SERVICERoofing# all types & Chimney Services# P.BROWN BUILDING & ROOFINGALLHedge MAKES cutting OF WATER SOFTENERS of •ground New worksroofs & repairs • Slating/Tiling/Lead work Call Maidstone office: 01622 813750 Painting & Decorating SERVICED • Brickwork • SALESTraditional • SERVICE • FILTERS• & REVERSE OSMOSIS undertaken• Chimney rebuild/repairs • Pointing Extensions, renovations, roofing, loft conversions • • &FREE alterations SURVEY PROMPT • INSTALLATIONSDecking/Patios or Mobile: 07854 615687 Hedge laying • Guttering Services G ARDEN & Call Paul on • Water FeatuFencingres • Fencing www.wrightsfencing.co.uk E: [email protected] • DrivewaysBARNSIDE, WROTHAM •ROAD, Treework MEOPHAM Free estimates & all works guaranteed AGRIC ULTURAL Landscapingwww.softwaterservices.co.uk 01580 890624 k 01634 865213 W: pbrownbuildingroofing.co.ukBLOCK SALT Call our sales team now - www.wrightsfencing.co.uk Experienced • Reliable • Fully Insured 07944 367320 / 01622 729600 Redwall Farm, Redwall Lane, MAC HINERY FreeSOFTENER estimates & [email protected] - Fully insured 07712 163167 www.southeastgroundworks.co.uk 2 Warren Road, Bluebell Hill Chatham, Kent ME5 9RD All work carries an Vicarage Lane, East Farleigh [email protected] Linton, Maidstone, ME17 4AX Stihl Chainsaws, Brushcutters, 07748185920 Tel: 01622 527106 Mob:07788 532926 Email: Insurance [email protected] Backed Guarantee Tel: 01622 892244 01622 630 330 T: 01622 749819 Hedgetrimmers, Strimmers No1 Locally Since 1996 Mobile: 07732 768331 Viking Lawn Mowers and FOR ALL ASPECTS OF MAINTENANCE & LANDSCAPING F: 01622 749829 Ride-On Mowers by Stihl Maidstone Weald October 2017Turf Laying 39SpecialistsNo1One-off Locally or Ongoing Maintenance Mountfield Lawnmowers Planting Commercial & Domestic Also at Lydden Road, Swingfield, and Garden Machinery Alpha Property Maintenance SouthSHAUN East Handymen ELLEN Fencing Grass Cutting & Treatments Dover CT15 7HF Stiga Multiclip and Ride-On Mowers BRICKWORK SPECIALIST & GENERAL BUILDER GREG LAURENSONPaving & Patios SinceHedge 1996 Cutting & Reductions 30 years experience in Fully Insured & Qualified • Bathroom & kitchen installations • EXTENSIONS • PORCHES • GARDEN WALLS • PATIOS • RE-POINTING PAINTING & DECORATINGRaised Beds PROPERTYPaddock SERVICES Maintenance Painting & decorating / Electrics & plumbing Tel: 01580 438004 Garden & Site Clearance Pressure Washing • Painting & decorating • CHIMNEY REPAIRS • CONSERVATORY BASES • STONE WALLS e: [email protected] Extensions & loft conversions Interior & Exterior Workwww.lucaslandscapemaintenance.co.ukCommercial & Domestic • Plastering • Plumbing • CONCRETING • DRAINAGE • BLOCK PAVING • ROOFING All•RESTORATION handyman jobs WORK covered • PROPERTY no matter MAINTENANCE how small. RathboneFree Quotes DecoratingReliable Quality Services Service Flat Roof Specialists | Felt & Single Ply Free Quotations GardeningCITY & GUILDS and small OVER trees. 25 Outside YEARS guttering EXPERIENCE & UPVC Fibre glass and Liquid Roofs fascia's plus small roofs and the erecting of sheds. [email protected] Call Bob on FREE ESTIMATES & ADVICE Painting & Decorating No job too small dunn & cole PHONEGeorge SHAUN: 07740 01622 347 679618 596 /• MOB:07957 07889 103 903590 203 Interior & Exterior with special rates 01622 762164 07941 703193 07870 271 077 for pensioners FOR A RELIABLE & FRIENDLY SERVICE Works Undertaken • FreeMD Estimates Building • Friendly & Personal Services Services 07957903638 property maintenance services @ Spindlebush Farm, HomeSpecialists Improveme innts and • Domestic and CommercialSupplies • L Qualifiedtd Tradesman MARSHALLS Yalding Hill, ME18 6AL • Extensions • Plastering (All aspects) 01622 891512 Tel 01622• Refurbishments 721491Kitchens /or Be• drElectrics Mobile:ooms/ Bath • Modernisationsr ooms07753 / 487796 South East London & Kent areas T Seasoned logs suitable for • KitchenKarndean & F Bathroomlooring (suppl Installationsy / supply Brand New Straight Stairlifts Next day • Driveways, Patios &an Repointingd install / insta •ll onFencingly) & Blockpaving open fires & wood stoves installation Reconditioned Stairlifts see www.installationgallery.co.ukFULLY INSURED to see T Bulk bags from £55 a gallery of our previous installations. Tel No: 01622 756128 Mobile: 07905 182363 Tel: Mark 07841 Call40906107534 863994 T Loose loads: £100 delivered www.stairliftstoday.co.uk Very competitively priced againstus email: [email protected] Suppliers on 01634 320604 •Driveways •Tar & Grit •Tarmacadam [email protected] Maidstone Weald October 2019 31 or £125 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukMobile No: 07855 466438 •Footpaths •Block Paving•Car Parks 49 West Park Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7AF Discreet and reliable pest controlTel No: 0800serving 1804590 homes and businesses in Kent Call us today to request your FREE, no obligation, home survey. Council Approved Drop Kerbs Free Estimates 01622 812005 07970 647334 and the surrounding areas. EffectiveBased in Maidstoneand tailor-made solutions to all of WE BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTES your pest control needsRolin including Cleaningrats, mice, wasps, moles,Services squirrels, MD Building & Services fleas, bed bugs etc. Non-toxic methods used where possible and advice 01622 741183 provided on preventative measures.• Wood Floor Sanding 01622 862035 / 07771 523799 Marchant Garden Services Specialists in CALL US ON: Local, family run business,and fully Oiling qualified services and insured. www.rssurfacing.com Adrian Marchant • Full• Roof Extensions Installation • Plastering • Tiling (All & Slateaspects) Roofing 01622 920642 • Refurbishments• UPVC • Fascias Electrics & Soffits• Modernisations • Family run business • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations [email protected] - Tree Surgeon • Chimney Re pointing or Removal • Fully insured • Driveways, Patios & Repointing • Fencing & Blockpaving 01732 872199 www.landlcreativespaces.co.uk N.P.T.C. Qualified • Fully Insured • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance • Trained Technicians FULLY INSURED • Hedgecutting & Fencing HALLFORD07860• DECKING 100295 • FENCING DECORATINGby • PallmannARTIFICIAL GRASS • HARD BMP SKIP HIRE Tel:www.apolloroofing.co.uk Mark 07841 409061 Offham Nr West Malling LANDSCAPINGPainting • &FIRST Decorating FIX PROJECT ServicesS • SPECIALIST IN email: [email protected] [email protected] rolincleaningservices.co.uk 07808 414965 or 01622 853601 PLAYGROUNDCall EQUIPMENfor free estimateT • BESPOKE GARDEN 07932 492897 01732 841041 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk PROJECTS • SAFETY SURFACING Call for a free no obligation quote Mid Kent Living 59 2/3/4 & 6 YARD • Plastering • Carpentry • Property Maintenance • SAME DAY SERVICE • Ceramic Tiling, Floor Tiling, Laminate Flooring E.A. REG • FAST FRIENDLY SERVICE LAZING REP 66 Mid Kent Living Call Martin Hallford on 01622 730418 or 07956 234273 • WE RECYCLE YOUR WASTE BLE G AIR M A1Roofing Services DOU BEARSTED AN Your friendly local service - Bearsted 01622 858887 07870 680 979 Misted Sealed Units Door Handles Broken Glass • TILED ROOFING • FLAT ROOFING MKL_Winter_2019 CLASSIFIED.indd 66 14/03/2019 11:14 Door Locks Window Handles Letter Boxes • LEAD FLASHING • PVC FASCIA / SOFFITS 58 Mid Kent Living Broken Hinges New Doors New Windows • FULL REPAIR SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Tel: 01622 296011 For a prompt reliable service 07808 849432 or 01622 738683 Mob: 07884 180595 Email: [email protected]

B M Travel (Kent) Ian Terry Private Hire Airports-London-Seaports-Days Out-Events Plastering Services Ditton based, our locally established drivers are friendly, helpful and courteous. 31 Roseacre Lane, Bearsted ME14 4JE Competitive rates (airports from £40). 24 hour service. 07855 529283 For enquiries contact Bob Matthews on: 07904 492819 or Get properly plastered Est 1980 [email protected]

Mid Kent Living 63 Classified downsmail.co.uk

Painting & Decorating continued Roofing Services Decorator D. STEWART • Full Roof Installation All decorating • Tiling & Slate Roofing • UPVC Fascias & Soffits interior & exterior • Chimney Re pointing or Removal • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance FREE ESTIMATES www.apolloroofing.co.uk Bearsted 730541 07808 414965 Pest Control or 01622 853601 Call for a free no obligation quote Allington Roofing EST 1979 Fascias, Soffits & Gu ering Sales Roof Cleaning Felt Flat RoofingServices Moss Removal Roof Repairs & Free Estimates Classifieds downsmail.co.uk MAIDSTONE AUTOCENTRE01622 861564 07889255813 LTD Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk Kents Leading Mazda MX-5 Stockistsinfo@allingtonroofing.co.uk www.allingtonroofing.co.uk OVER 40 2 & 4 SEATER CONVERTIBLES IN STOCK View our full range of stock online www.maidstoneautocentre.co.ukE: [email protected] RICHARDS ROOFING & MaidstoneContactPlastering Autocentre our sales Ltd team…• 20 BowPlumbing Road • Wateringbury & Heating • MaidstoneB •UILDING Kent • ME18 5DD SERVICES Tel: 01622 LTD 812234 Natasha BastoneFreephone 0800 6942024 Teresa JefferyLead PlumbingWork and & Tiling TilingRebecca Specialists Abbott HOMEFRESHTelesales ManagerThroughout the South East Classified Sales ExecutiveNew tiled roofs, repairs & replacementsClassified Sales Executive E: natasha@ E: teresa@ Bathroom InstallationE: rebecca.abbott downsmail.co.ukCarpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate downsmail.co.ukSlate and lead roofs & [email protected] CARPET & Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 & refurbishment, T. 01622Through 630330 Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 T. 01622 630330PVCu guttering,DAVID fascias & soffits COXT. 01622 630330 UPHOLSTERY ext. 224 ext. 227 ext. 234 Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 Cladding & bargeboards CLEANING Upholstery Mobile: 07701024078 3 piece suite £84 £42 RepointingHome: & chimney 01622 repairs730960 OFFERAppliance Repairs50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 Carpenters Discount BrickworkE: [email protected] and carpentry No hidden extras - All Curtains prices inclusive of VAT Full length £74 £37 Plastering and decoration ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCEHalf Length Find your£42 local £21 # FREE ESTIMATES # Loft, cellar & garage conversions REPAIR SERVICE trades people Wood Works A.H.B.S with fully qualified engineer Design support & advice Carpentry All makes of washing machines, Businesses & Services FULL CARPENTRY fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, NO JOB TOO SERVICEQualified plumbers, FROM electricians &All heating aspects of engineers CARPENTRY t/dryers,EPIC dishwashers, elec ovens. on the Downs Mail Fence me in & alot more LANDSCAPES BIG OR SMALLdirectory DECKING TO DOORS, Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and  All work guaranteed All types of Fencing & Gates Installedfitted, Loft Conversions, & Repairs Doors hung,  Free estimates and call out KITCHENS & Tel:FLOORS. (01622) 734377 downsmail.co.uk All Aspects of Garden Services,Locks fitted,Landscapes, Skirting, small alterations, • Fencing01622 • Treework 673113 • Turfing • Decking• Levelling Ground ALL JOBS BIGDirect: & SMALL. 07885 241666Plastering and Tiling Anytime: 07831 557677 Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving.All work guaranteed. • Patios • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf • Water Features MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD INRegular AND AROUNDwww.richardsroofing.co.uk Contracts, THE HOME Lawn Mowing, HedgeFREE CuttingESTIMATES etc. • Clearance • Driveways Family business established 21 years Bathrooms email: [email protected] For a free site survey call: CALL CliffCall on Colin on 07521 01622377306 743648 01622 527106 07788 532926 07940 854927 or 01622 853978Mob: 07711 291921 The complete Bathroom Skip Hire31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Maintenance Company P 01233 840624 Chimney Maintenance Collectionrompt NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES D.T [email protected] Fast SKIP HIRE Delivery SKIP HHIRE & G Chimney Services Supply • InstallG Blocked • Repair drain clearance G CCTV drain & sewer surveys The largest Over 20 Years Experience Floor & Wall TilingG Drain & sewer• Full cleaning Plumbing G Cesspool & septicServices tank services Chimney sweeping service • Long establishedT Skip •Hire ICS registered3, 4, 6 independently owned & 12 Yard Bins G Tankering including ADR (hazchem) Prices Allfrom types £110 of +VAflu •T All pots-cowls supplied & fitted liquid waste Complete re-builds • Re-pointing T• Guttering,Covering roof Maidstone & valley repairs Call GaryG Pollution &07738 flooding solutions 902116 & The Weald management 0162201622 739439 843511 07860 318166 [email protected] company in the UK G Waste disposal & recycling T EA Registered 01622 736266 01233 623721 T Fast & Prompt Service ALL WORK GUARANTEED Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, T Commercial www.mtscleansing.co.uk West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ & Domestic

32 Maidstone Weald October 2019 Builders CleanGarage SweepDoor Free Quotation GDSBrush & vacuumSpecialists Site Survey MD Building & Services • Kent based business and specialize in the • At GDS we offer a range of designs, colours and PAUL BEST Specialists in WoodInstallation, supply burners and repair of garage and doors fluesaccessories to personalise your garage door. • Extensions • Refurbishments across the South East of England. • Not only do we supply and install garage doors, Brickwork • Plastering (All aspects) supplied and fitted • Electrics • Modernisations • Years of experience in the garage door industry we can also repair any door from any O Extensions • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations Alland we workare proud to have insured received many glowing manufacturer to a top standard. O • Driveways, Patios & Repointing customer recommendations for us. General Builder • Fencing & Blockpaving O 25 years Experience All work certified6pm to cover insurance24 FULLY INSURED 01634 786129onwards 07540 224938 hour www.garagedoorspecialistskent.co.ukPest control available [email protected] 01622 891960 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 e: [email protected] Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Dr. Tiles IWeddings B Plastering attended Tiling & BuildingBuilding PlansMaintenance Member of the ICS Free No Obligation Quote FREE •Plastering •Friendly, reliable, ReliableHETAS Service, approved No Job To Small, Fully Insured NO OBLIGATION •Painting & Decorating clean & tidy worker. QUOTE •Laminate Flooring •City & Guilds CallContact Ian on: Kevin Bovis 07804 •Home Improvements qualified Mob 07752175135 Tel:01622 843530 927680 •Tiling •Fully insured 01622 844385 Call Danny on 07450 876363 or email: [email protected] Email:07885 [email protected] 651578 [email protected] 64 Mid Kent Living

38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Skip Hire continued Waste Services continued

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

Book Online Order your skip via secure Skip Hire Web Design 24hr online book facility Roll On/Offs 4 Yard Skip £200 inc Vat Road Permits Arranged 6 Yard Skip £240 inc Vat Waste Recycling Facility 8 Yard Skip £280 inc Vat 12 Yard Skip £360 inc Vat

Many more services available. See website for details

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01233 840624 [email protected] Leisure WANTED MODEL RAILWAYS The largest independently owned liquid Any age or condition waste management company in the UK Richard 07780 681405 www.mtscleansing.co.uk Private collector [email protected] • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions • Waste disposal & recycling

Maidstone Weald October 2019 33 Classified downsmail.co.uk Recruitment

Mechanic/MOT tester required for small busy village Newspaper Deliverer garage dealing with a wide range of servicing and repairs Jackie's News of Tenterden has a on most makes and models. position available to start now for a An MOT testing license preferred but not essential. deliverer. Could be a younger person’s main income or to help supplement your pension. Round 23 Park Wood, Standard hours Monday – Friday and alternating , Hollingbourne & Leeds Salary of £15,080 P/A Saturday mornings. Start at 8am Please call 01580 763183 or email all of Salary negotiable depending upon experience your details to [email protected] Please call Steve or Lee 01622 842275 for an informal chat

CANTERBURY: 3-4 OCT. ROCHESTER: 4-5 NOV. Learn how to take blood ... TWO DAY COURSE NATIONALLY RECOGNISED train as a PHLEBOTOMIST We Move It Ltd are an established motor trade logistics Introduction to Phlebotomy Course business, and due to growth are looking to recruit l Allied Healthcare Career Path Part-Time Drivers at our Maidstone branch. l Accredited (advanced) qualification In addition to this, we are also looking for part time drivers l No previous experience required ACCREDITED SUPPLIER with trailer experience, to drive our brand new trailers. For more info. or to book online: www.geopace.net The ideal applicants will be presentable, flexible, positive and High demand in: Hospitals - GP Surgeries - Clinics - Private Sector - MOD - Research be a great communicator. For insurance purposes a clean driving licence is preferred. Please contact Graeme on 07840 046095 or [email protected]

Connecting with local people Glebe Fencing Ltd has a reputation synonymous with quality workmanship and superior installations. Senior Journalist/ Established for more than 19 years, the team at Glebe pride themselves on customer service through Deputy Editor required consistently delivering high quality fencing, decking and gate installations.

Mail Publications, publishers of the Downs Mail, We are looking for Fencing Installers, preferably Maidstone and Malling's number one newspaper with fencing experience- Must have a valid UK driving and its quarterly sister publication, Mid Kent license and valid green or blue CSCS card- The Living, is looking for an experienced, all-round working day will be Monday – Friday, 7am – 5pm with senior journalist. occasional overtime. Alternate Saturday work is also expected- Salary will vary depending upon experience The role entails all aspects of newspaper work, so a sound knowledge of reporting, news gathering, news editing, sub-editing and proof-reading is needed. The successful candidate will also drive content to our expanding daily news website and contribute features into our popular magazine, Mid Kent For more details Living, and have the necessary skills to help manage a small dedicated team and deputise for the Editor. please contact:

Some evening and weekend working will be required. Local knowledge is an advantage but not essential. A sense for strong campaigning, community 01622-220054 journalism is a must. 01622-200822 Ideally, the successful candidate will have a full NCTJ qualification or equivalent and a minimum of five years’ experience in a news media environment. [email protected]

If you would like a new challenge, we'd love to hear www.glebe-fencing.co.uk from you.

To apply contact the Editor, Simon Finlay with your CV and a covering letter outlining why you would be our ideal candidate. Simon.fi[email protected] Tel: 01622 630330

34 Maidstone Weald October 2019 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Media Sales

Come and join our friendly sales team and share in our success. Assistant Sales Manager

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with proven media sales ability who still enjoys the challenge of developing business and achieving targets but also wishes to develop their managerial experience and skills. We are a local family run publishing business, providing a supportive work environment, rewarding people for their effort and results.

We publish the Downs Mail, Maidstone & Malling’s leading newspaper which provides unrivalled coverage of the area, connecting with local people like no other and Mid Kent Living - a hugely successful quarterly magazine which is breaking all records for revenue generation and pagination. Our website is attracting more and more visitors every month providing an excellent online option to compliment any print advertising campaign.

The successful applicant will have worked in print media, preferably on local papers and consumer magazines. You will have a positive can do attitude, a determined outlook and an enthusiasm for developing revenues and helping team members to thrive.

This is a full time position working Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm We are offering a basic salary, uncapped commission plus bonus. More importantly you will have the opportunity to prove your potential and take full responsibility for the sales operation within a year of joining us.

You will have a full driving licence and the use of your own car which will need to be insured for business use. We provide a mileage allowance in line with Inland Revenue recommendations.

To apply please sent your CV and covering letter, explaining why you should be considered for this appointment, to:

Bill Brett Sales Manager [email protected]

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Maidstone Weald October 2019 37 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Risks from mental hospital  D EEP local concerns grow about the Ashworth as the other two. Should t serious problems of and potential public Cygnet join that high-security list? dangers from the new 65-bed Cygnet MailMarks Of necessity, patients cannot be treated Hospital for mentally-ill adults at Kent DENNIS FOWLE President in an open environment, which means Medical Campus off Bearsted Road, [email protected] the building must be a balance between . a hospital and a prison. Failure to The time could be approaching for provide highest security has to be a major political intervention relating to natural concern for this very residential admission of known highly-dangerous improvement” while rating the hospital area of Maidstone, soon to be too an patients. overall as “good”. educational centre for young children. Criminal psychiatric patients are The Downs Mail has been responding among those accepted by the hospital. to local worries, but our enquiries to the Lovely Leeds One of four wards is a 15-bed male hospital management have been very IT IS a few years since we made a service providing psychiatric intensive disappointing, with a refusal to reply to family visit to Leeds Castle and on a care. It accepts emergency and crisis Freedom of Information requests and to gorgeous summer’s day I found out admissions, with referrals coming from allow a journalist to visit the hospital to what we had been missing. all areas, including from acute and discuss the problems and inspect current I have always gone along with the prison services. Many patients will be safety measures. claim we have the most beautiful castle detained under the Mental Health Act. Now we learn of human noises from in the world – and now it is even be�er. Local worries started growing as the hospital which can be heard from The improved floral gardens are residents watched the style of hospital outside and are certain soon to concern magnificent and everything seems so being built, especially as two new nearby schoolchildren, parents and schools were planned as very close next- teachers. well cared for. The activities offer seems door neighbours – one a local primary Cygnet says the hospital’s services stronger than ever. and the other for special needs children. have been requested and agreed by local How lucky we are to have both Mote Urgent building work on these is now and regional NHS bodies to meet urgent Park and Leeds Castle. underway. demands for specialist mental health Fears really escalated when the Downs services in Kent. It says an aim is to Mail revealed that in April, local police ensure local people can be treated close Brexit footnote were called to the hospital more than 20 to home and as near as possible to family  I A M amazed by hypocritical times to patient-on-patient and patient- and friends. remainers who accuse the Prime on-staff assaults. More worrying still There will be public sympathy for Minister of being undemocratic. was that fact that one patient escaped Cygnet’s aims – but not if lack of Their intention still is to overturn the from the hospital. watertight security means patients are nation’s democratic decision to leave the The NHS budget-holding West Kent endangering the local community or EU, then approved more than once by Clinical Commissioning Group became causing worrying nuisances. Parliament. involved and a Care Quality I note Broadmoor Hospital website Do they know what the word Commission inspector visited and issued says it is a high-security psychiatric “democracy” means? It looks as though a report saying safety “requires hospital and lists Rampton and the Prime Minister will ensure they do. Proroguing appalling Still reason in Tory party who had come all the way from Shropshire for the day. IN COMMON with many other people, I AT LEAST one of the points raised He replied that he, too, was a Tory, that am appalled that the Government has against me in his le�er by Mike Wardle there were still plenty in the party of this decided to suspend Parliament. (“Complaints don’t stack up” – August persuasion, that he would have rather With the Brexit deadline imminent, it 2019) has now happily been overtaken by voted for Stewart not Hunt, a reminder means MPs will not have time to pass events with the election of Jo Swinson as that there is still thoughtful, pragmatic laws to stop the disaster of a no-deal the new Liberal Democrat leader. thinking in the Conservatives. Brexit or scrutinise the Government at It remains true that no woman has yet With no new deal or extension of one of the most critical times in our led Labour, but the party has done more membership likely, there needs to be a country’s history. than the others to encourage women to vote of no confidence in the government The Prime Minister’s actions are pursue political careers and, proving the and a general election. Former US Trade outrageous, and clearly undermine the right candidate emerges, a new Shirley Secretary Larry Summers said Brexit was very idea of democracy. Williams, say, or a Barbara Castle, it can “the worst self-inflicted policy wound With just a few weeks before Brexit, we only be a ma�er of time before a women that a country has done since the Second need politicians in Parliament, doing takes full control. World War.” their jobs to make sure we leave the Boris Johnson, if memory serves, K G Banks, Maidstone European Union in the best possible way seemed poised for victory three years ago for the sake of future generations. Boris until Michael Gove’s timely, if Johnson must be stopped from Machiavellian intervention, which in the Put tip somewhere else suspending Parliament to ram through end did him no good at all. Combined I HAD always regarded the Allington an undemocratic Brexit, which will do with some ill-chosen words to The Times area of Maidstone as the “be�er” end of nothing to provide closure and bring the by Andrea Leadsom, this left Mrs May as the county town. country back together. the last candidate standing. It is a calm residential environment This is the time for MPs to display bold Curiously, at July’s good-humoured inhabited mainly by persons of senior and decisive leadership and stand up to anti-Brexit rally in London, the first two rank, who wish to live their lives in the unconstitutional manoeuvrings of banners I saw leaving Green Park tube peace and quiet. our capricious government. station read: “Tories against Brexit”, a But, no, perhaps I was wrong in my Bill Stoneham, Maidstone point I mentioned a li�le later to a man assessment, for this is the place where

38 Maidstone Weald October 2019 downsmail.co.uk

the sometime ridiculous Kent County homes, but rather the desecration of what Given that they have no real predators, C

Council, its leader and all those in power space is left with flytipping. breed all year round, and live to over 15 o m e n propose to site another household Burned-out cars and caravans left for years, it is fairly clear there are many in recycling centre, where all the rubbish months without disposal, huge piles of my locality. Knowing Detling as I do, I from neighbouring counties and SE rubble and building spoil left in the would conjecture that the extra wilderness London is incinerated.

middle of country lanes, dozens of tyres should mean the numbers are even higher t Just how ghastly is the huge chimney sca�ered in laybys and great mounds of than my place of residence. already in situ? But just to make it even vegetation dumped unceremoniously are It would be splendid to hear from other more ugly, KCC is intent on adding just too commonplace. readers of their experiences of these another plant (and I suspect another It is understandable that Maidstone interesting and usually elusive creatures. large chimney) in the same area. Borough Council, which is responsible for Robert Boston, Kings Hill Then there is the traffic, with huge preventing this menace, would seek to talk lorries carrying waste thundering past. up its very few and minor successes in its We still do not know what gases losing ba�le against this war, but the spin Plea to protect ground escape from the large chimney, but we fools no one. It’s everywhere you look. THE historical Mote Cricket Ground is do know that the fly population has One of the people constantly quoted by widely regarded as the most beautiful in increased dramatically since it opened. your newspaper is Cllr Gill Fort, who Kent and the cricket club works very Would it not be a bad idea for the new wants more and tougher action against the hard to retain this proud reputation. planned recycling plant to be sited near rule-breakers. She is right and should be The 24-acre site is a demanding and to the KCC leader’s residence where he heeded. Enforcement is key, as is chasing expensive challenge, made increasingly can enjoy fly-swa�ing? the maximum penalties for the transgres- difficult because of heavy maintenance Why, oh, why must it be at Allington? sors, with publicity for those guilty. and repair costs on a fading 110-years- I await an explanation but I do not hold Fixed or covert CCTV should be old pavilion. my breath! Anyone else agree? widespread. One imagines that the vast We happily share the ground with the Robin J Brooks, Maidstone majority of the dumping is carried out by rugby and squash clubs and this rental a relatively small number of people. Root income is vital to financing the site and them out and you’ll deal with the ensuring three important sports clubs Thoughts on pool plan problem. thrive in the town centre and cater I WAS very interested to read about the It seems that MBC seeks to pull the wool increasingly for young players. proposal to overhaul the pools at the over the eyes of its council taxpayers by As our business plan becomes very Larkfield Leisure Centre, as I was pretending to be dealing with an issue challenging we must find more sources privileged to be part of the team which when it is patently obvious that it is not. of income and we agreed a parking planned the construction of the Centre R McLoughlin, via email arrangement with Thrifty car and van in the late 1970s. rental on a li�le-used part of the gróund. It was built under a negotiated They are good and responsible tenants. contract by a firm called Techno Leisure, Muntjac sightings please We have now been asked to submit a and was one of the first leisure pools THE fine le�er from, Sharon Hooper retrospective planning application and with a wave making machine to be (‘Muntjac sighting a first’, August edition), are disappointed some neighbours have provided in the south of England. was very timely indeed. objected about lights and noise. Thrifty’s The contract gave us many headaches, Lately, a couple of nature enthusiasts business means they do not aim to but I feel the centre has been very good have been posting excellent pictures of operate outside our site’s normal busy value for money – enjoyed by thousands muntjacs on the Kings Hill social media day-time and evening parking of people. I wish the council every sites. They have been spo�ed in movements. We cherish our good success with its upgrading scheme. wilderness and semi-wilderness areas, relations with our neighbours. John Sweetman, via email near to where the developers are calling It is in the best interests of all that The phase three. Mote Cricket Club is able to protect the This in turn reminded me of my beauty of this cherished ground, gifted to Get tough on flytippers personal sighting some 10 years ago; us by the late Lord Bearsted more than OF ALL the things that bedevil life in the leaving home very early one morning, 90 years ago. Our failure would be rural parts of this great county, it is not the about 4.30am, I clearly saw a muntjac on serious for Maidstone. seemingly endless concreting over of Forest Way, Kingshill, approximately 100 Dennis Fowle, development chairman, beautiful farmland with “executive” style metres before the silver ball. The Mote Cricket Club

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