Rallying Call to Protest at 28,000 Homes Plans

Maidstone South Edition downsmail.co.uk Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE Christmas Edition 2019 No. 273

Panto stars News Busy Izzy’s call up AN INVICTA Grammar School light town student has been called up to THOUSANDS turned out to watch the England under 16 the county town's Christmas girls’ hockey squad. à3 lights being switched on. An estimated 5,000 converged 50 years of skills on Jubilee Square to watch the big moment and to listen to Ha- MAIDSTONE Roller Dance Club is zlitt panto star Jake Quickenden celebrating its 50-year sing live. anniversary. à6 l Full story, page 18 M&S store to open A NEW M&S store will open next year at the Eclipse retail park, off the M20 at Rallying call to protest junction seven. à8 The Queen in Kent HER Majesty the Queen has visted the Royal British Legion at 28,000 homes plans Industries’ village near Maidstone. à A MASS rally is being planned to highlight the growing “people’s 24 protest” against council plans for 28,000-plus homes in the borough. Parishes à33 Organisers are looking for a “opportunity sites” in the town back control. SOHL would like CLLR Paul Wooding has been venue to hold about 1,500 people, centre for 1,000 homes, including a concerned residents and action elected as chairman and Cllr where representatives hope to scheme to remove the war memo- groups to unite with us to put pres- Gary Butler as his vice chairman send a message to Liberal Demo- rial to make way for a 14-storey sure on elected representatives to of the parish council at Tovil; an crat-led Maidstone Borough Coun- block of flats. rethink the house-building num- “electric blue” fence surrounding cil that ‘enough is enough’. Residents are worried that roads bers and to sort out the inadequate two new Maidstone schools on The MBC Local Plan, adopted and services are unable to cope infrastructure that has been caused the site of the Kent Medical two years ago, commits it to build with the present level of develop- by lack of investment.” Campus was replaced by a green 17,600 new houses. ment. Only 6,500 from the Local A spokesman for the town cen- one; Tovil residents observed the But the Local Plan review could Plan have so far been delivered. tre Think Before You Build cam- plastic glass on the noticeboard allow, according to an MBC docu- Now the Save Our Heath Lands paign said: “It's a good idea. People had become opaque. ment, for an additional 10,500. (SOHL) pressure group is looking don't feel they are being listened to. The senior management and Lib to join other housing opposition We have to stand up for ouselves.” Crime Reports à33 Dem leadership have now become outfits to support a rally to per- Anyone interested can contact SOHL via email: saveourheath- A JET washer and a pair of bikes self-styled "master developers" of suade local and central govern- were stolen from a garden in the plan to build 5,000 houses at ment to halt development plans. [email protected] Among the plans is MBC’s Bedgebury Close; somebody Lenham Heath. A SOHL spokesman said: “It’s attempted to gain entry to a MBC also promoted a series of about time the community took scheme for Lenham which critics claim was prepared in advance of vehicle in Shepway while the the call in February this year and owner was asleep inside; a car used tens of thousands of pounds was damaged in Sandling Road of public money. when someone superglued Independent Maidstone council- notices to it; tools were stolen lor Eddie Powell accused MBC of from an address in Fant. “effectively pre-determining its own site. It stinks”. Obituaries à36 MBC claims: “No decisions have been taken on the submitted sites. Many will be deemed unsuitable.” Comment à46-47 webexpand.co.uk 01622 880840 In the the top top 1% of 1%UK web of designUK companies webwww.webexpand.co.uk design companies | [email protected] web design google promotion ecommerce BI FOLD DOORS IN BLACK, GREY OR WHITE - NO PRICE UPLIFT £1099 PER LEAF CALL NOW FOR OFFER THE VERY BEST OFFERS

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2 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Pub ﬂats plan Hockey player Izzy, 15, THE former Dog & Gun pub in Boxley Road, Maidstone, could be turned into flats. The inn was sold back in the summer and an application has gets an England call-up been made to convert it into eight apartments. Kent County Council AN INVICTA Grammar School described her as a “rising teenage has raised no highways objections student has been celebrating her star” and she was deemed good to James Mills’ proposals. call-up to international hockey. enough at the end of last season to The pub was sold by brewing Izzy Shelley (15), who is in year debut in the Euro Club Trophy. giant Shepherd Neame at auction 11 at the Huntsman Lane school, Izzy, who is a Kent U17 cricketer, as it no longer fitted its “current has been selected for the England said: “It was a rollercoaster, there business strategy”. under 16s girls’ squad. were a few ups and downs but it Izzy, who lives in Bearsted, plays has been the best. It’s what I have for Holcombe Hockey Club, near always wanted to do and to do it Road blocked Rochester Airport, but also helps one season aged just 15 was amaz- A ROAD was blocked when an out at Invicta as a coach. Her ing.” overturned car was allegedly aban- school is more noted for its A spokesman for Invicta said: doned by its driver. achievements on the netball court. “We are delighted to share with The Peugeot 307 was found on Izzy, who can play up front and you that Izzy in 11V, has taken part the A26 near Milton Street at 6.15am in midfield, underwent several tri- in a number of hockey trials and on November 24. No other vehicles als for emerging talent in the sport has been notified by England were involved and police are trying before getting her call-up. Hockey that she has been selected to trace the driver. Mum Tracey said: “She's very for the England U16 Girls’ squad – pleased to have been selected for a fantastic achievement.” the squad and there are training She is in good company at Hol- Street sleepers sessions until February before she combe, as the women's roster in- THE number of rough sleepers in knows if she’ll be picked to play cludes England international the borough has fallen by 90% ac- competitively.” Nicola White, Wales internationals cording to Homeless Link. She has already caught the eye in Beth Bingham, Sarah Jones, Rose There were 48 in September 2018 the sport at elite club level, having She is thought to be the youngest Thomas, Jo Westwood and Leah but that number slumped to three broken into the women's national to have reached that level. Wilkinson, and Scotland interna- at the most recent count last league with Holcombe's first team. The Hockey Paper newspaper tional Lorna Cruickshank. month.

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Maidstone January 2020 3 News downsmail.co.uk £19m gamble on leisure centre THE borough council has sunk £19m of taxpayers’ money to secretly buy the leasehold of the Lockmeadow leisure complex in the centre of Maidstone. The Lib Dem-led council has fi- commercial investment strategy." nanced the deal by by its own re- The authority claims it will invest serves and borrowing from two in the complex to enhance its appeal other local authorities, which is as home to the Odeon, an 18-lane common practice. bowling alley, a trampoline park, We understand the £19.1m price restaurants and a pool and gym tag is about £2m less than originally complex. asked by leaseholders Kames Cap- When asked if there is “any pos- ital. sibility, however remote, that the Maidstone Borough Council ef- site could be used for housing”, fectively becomes Lockmeadow MBC replied: “The qualification landlord, charging rents to tenants ‘however remote’ makes it literally such as the Odeon Cinema, while impossible to answer this question, creating profits to divert into pub- but no proposals have been put for- lic services. ward for housing on the site as part But dissenting voices claim that of the Local Plan review.” should the Odeon pull out, the venture would become a “dead everything the council touches.” of the deal’s commercial sensitivi- Labour borough councillor Mal- duck”, leaving it exposed to con- The minutes of the March 29 pol- ties. colm McKay, who voted against the version into homes. icy and resources committee state The authority used Edgerley proposal, said: “My worry is that if The proposal was given cross- funding was to be from the low-in- Simpson Howe (ESH) as agents the Odeon was to move out, the party approval by the policy and terest, low-risk Public Works Loan and its valuation was assessed by whole thing is a dead duck and then resources meeting in March. Board, although the council now Harrisons Chartered Surveyors. one option could be housing.” Local Tory borough councillor says: “Around two thirds is funded MBC said: “ESH are engaged by The council, which now styles it- Jonathan Purle said: “In principle, internally. The external funding the council to assess and negotiate self as a “master developer”, pro- this should generate a positive fi- comes from other local authori- commercial investment opportuni- moted a plan to remove the War nancial return to fund services and ties.” ties and remunerated accordingly.” Memorial at The Broadway to make keep the council tax down. In prac- MBC denies the March meeting An MBC statement said: “By in- way for a 14-storey block of flats. It tice, I am more sceptical. I hope it was secret, but concedes members vesting in the site, we will generate was later dumped at committee doesn’t end up as more flats, like of the public were exempt because a financial return, in line with our stage by furious elected members. PCC protest Drug dealer PROTESTORS stormed a meeting of the Kent Police and Crime Com- sent to jail misioner at County Hall. A COCAINE dealer has been jailed Commissioner Matthew Scott for more than two years after he was being held to account by the was arrested by plain clothes offi- Kent Police and Crime Panel when cers in Maidstone. the group burst into the public Edi Dalopai (22) was seen on gallery and chanted slogans at him. September 2 They were alleging a bank fraud, with seven although Mr Scott’s office said the deals of cocaine, allegations were not linked to his a mobile phone jurisdiction. Six protestors were de- and £60 cash on tained briefly. a road off Palace Avenue. Health talks Copter pad ‘a lifesaver’ A search of THE European School of Osteopa- his car revealed thy welcomed Kent schools to its A HELICOPTER landing pad at Maid- also be used by other emergency a further £885, Maidstone HQ on November 22. stone Hospital is up and running. services as well as charities such as £189 in loose changeand a second They attended a careers event On October 29, the new 24-hour the Children’s Air Ambulance, mobile phone. dedicated to health professions helipad saw its ﬁrst arrival as part of which provides a medical transfer The phones were examined and with workshops and talks. the sign-off process by the Civil Avi- service for critically-ill babies and text messages relating to drug deal- ation Authority (CAA). children up to the age of 18. ing were found. The seized drugs A hospital spokesman said: "It will HELP (Helicopter Emergency were found to have a street value Wedding fund help increase the life chances of se- Landing Pads) Appeal donated of £2,800-£4,200. AMAIDSTONE jewellery brand riously ill or injured patients being £300,000 to Maidstone and Tun- Dalipaj, of no fixed address, was Custom & Co, in the Royal Star Ar- brought to Maidstone Hospital for bridge Wells NHS Trust to build the arrested and later charged with cade, has joined the Gift O A Wed- treatment or ﬂown from the hospi- all-weather pad at the rear of the possessing cocaine with intent to ding charity to launch a ring which tal to specialist centres elsewhere in oncology unit. supply. He pleaded guilty at Maid- could raise funds. the country for treatment." Work started in April this year and stone Crown Court and on Mon- The charity helps terminally-ill Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sus- it replaces the temporary site, which day, November 25, he was patients to marry. For details, email sex will be the main user, but it can was often water-logged. sentenced to two years and eight [email protected]. months in prison.

4 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News

Castle’s birthday event ‘a success’ LEEDS Castle boss Sir David from far and wide. Steel has hailed the treasure “We have established ourselves house’s 900th birthday celebra- very firmly on the podium of the tions a “resounding” success. great “treasure houses” of Eng- The year-long celebration of the land and we have used the good landmark was marked by a series fortune of our age to our advan- of events, including the acclaimed tage.” Carnival of History and a garden Leeds Castle does not qualify for opened by patron, HRH Princess full membership of the Association Alexandra. of Leading Visitor Attractions It was not about boosting visitor (ALVA) as it does not achieve over numbers but to establish the castle a million visitors. alongside the other great attrac- But ALVA, whose full members tions in England, he said. include the Tower of London, the Buying, selling Writing in the monthly Leeds V&A and Blenheim Palace, con- and Broomfield parish magazine, sidered Leeds Castle as “best in Sir David, pictureed above, writes: class” in its spring and summer “Some have asked me whether or surveys. or both? not Leeds Castle 900 has been a Sir David added: “This is a re- success. markable outcome, especially “My answer is a resounding when you consider that the com- Whitehead Monckton solicitors can help ‘yes’. Have we attracted thousands petition includes Westminster more visitors? Not really. Abbey, the Tower of London, the you complete all the legal steps, whether “However, from the very first V&A and Windsor Castle. Leeds month of the year, when we fea- Castle might be small, but we you’re buying or selling a property. tured on BBC1’s Countryfile, all punch way above our weight and We take pride in offering a no-nonsense approach to the way through to this Decem- I hope that you will be as proud of ber…we have attracted interest this achievement as I am.” what can sometimes be a frustrating process, helping ensure your transaction is completed as quickly and Drunken thief jailed smoothly as possible. A TIPSY and tearful serial committed have been whilst I’m Recognised by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality shoplifter begged a judge not to sober.” Accreditation Scheme, a requirement for some send him to jail, despite having Judge Paul Goldspring said: “It’s more than 40 convictions for 104 time to stop blaming others and mortgage lenders to use the same solicitors. offences on his record. take some responsibility. You have Douglas Frankham (32), of Hu- over 40 convictions for 104 of- Contact us today bert Walter Drive, Maidstone, ap- fences. Seventy of those have been peared at Maidstone Magistrates for dishonesty and shoplifting. Canterbury 01227 643250 Court after stealing nearly £100 “You have had every single type worth of groceries from Wilkin- of sentence out there. Each time Maidstone 01622 698000 son’s on September 24. you have been given a chance to The alcoholic said he was exchange but instead you breach and Tenterden 01580 765722 pecting to be accepted into a rehab ignore your sentences. www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk facility, but the letter proving his “You have lied to me about hav- claim had gone missing after his ing rehab arrangements and you “house burnt down the other day”. have tried to pull the wool over Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in England & Wales. Registered ofﬁce 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Defending himself, Frankham my eyes. You can’t comply with Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by said: “As an alcoholic, and as dys- anything.” the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. functional as my life is, this will set Frankham admitted theft and me back. I will be back on ground was jailed for 12 weeks on DM2019 zero. None of the offences I have November 9.

Maidstone January 2020 5 News downsmail.co.uk Coat thief had been laid oﬀ A MAIDSTONE family man theft back in June 2016. He also had “fully regrets” stealing a coat outstanding fines of over £800. from Marks and Spencer after His defence solicitor said: “My being laid off work, a court heard. client fully regrets this offence. In Father-of-three James Macdon- his words, he told me he was ‘hard From left: Emily Hurcomb, Lucy Aves, Tayla Celik, Katy Bray, Isabelle ald (26), of Canterbury House, up and didn’t have any money’. Jarvis and Anna Slokenburga Shepway, stole the £99 coat from He is a family man and has three Maidstone town centre because children. He recently got laid off “he had no money”. work and has had issues with his 50 years of roller skills During his arrest, Maidstone benefits. He tells me he has never Magistrates Court heard the defen- been out of work before and is MAIDSTONE Roller Dance Club cel- Gold medals were picked up by dant told officers: “Fair enough, finding it hard to cope. He hopes to ebrated the group’s 50th birthday Maidstone members Lucy Aves, Zac with some friendly competition. Martin, Oliver Martin and Laura you’ve caught me red handed.” find a new job soon to start fresh.” Members invited 150 skaters Donogue. Oliver and his partner Prosecuting, James Nichols said: Chairman of the bench, Paul En- from across the country to take part Rosie, from Invicta, took gold and a “At around 4pm on October 29, glish said: “It’s a shame your fines in an It’s a Knock-Out-style contest. bronze medal was awarded to the two police officers were viewing have not been kept up to date or The two-day friendly, which in- Maidstone Magic dance team of CCTV footage at Marks and this could have been handled very cluded Kent clubs Meridian, Med- Zac Martin, Anna Sheldrake and Spencer, when they noticed the de- differently. However, we have way, Invicta, and Pegasus was held Beth Sullivan. fendant in the men’s wear section. heard you have stayed out of trou- at the Dolphin Leisure Centre in The club also picked up another They recognised him and went ble and you are trying to get a job. Haywards Heath. four silvers and eight bronzes. downstairs to investigate. “We are going to fine you, which The highlight was a skate-off by New members can join a club “He put on a £99 coat and walked will be consolidated with your ex- pairs pulled together in a draw. starter session on any Saturday at straight out without paying.” isting fines. Get these out the way Maidstone's Katy Bray came the YMCA in Tovil. Anyone inter- The court heard Macdonald had and move on with your life.” third from 28 duos with partner ested should email info@maid- 10 previous convictions for 16 of- Macdonald pleaded guilty to Niall, from Meridian. stonerollerdanceclub.co.uk. fences, the most recent one for a theft and was given a £177 fine.

6 Maidstone January 2020 NewNewss do w n sdownsmail.comail.co.uk.uk downsBusiness mail.co.uk Focus downsBusinessmail.co.uk Focus downsmail.co.uk News Fun dog show A FUN dog show is being held in Relationship on the Rocks BougCoathton Monchelsea in Jthiefune, Acci haddent s reinforce need The title of this article processes. If emotions are running high, taking • The person that leaves is often a co-owner of with 18 different categories to be CCTV call to stop fly-tipping judged on the day. may conjure an image a step back can regain the ability to think more the family home. The absent person is still These include Best Trick, Dog CALLS for the installationof cold, troubled of Illegal waters fly-tippingclearly. Taking time to reflect and acting bound by their Acrossresponsibilities Kent, local to authoritiesmortgage are Most Like its Handler, Best Biscuit for action on relief road CCTV cameras to preventwith fly-tip- potentialis dangers costing localrationally can avoid lots of anguish. Many lenders and shouldspending ensure hundreds that the of home thousands and of been laid off ping on a country road have been authorities hun- pounds clearing up rubbish. Catcher and a hurdles race. above and below the people regret actions/words spoken in the heat contents remainAccording protected toby one insurance. report £323,000 The It will be held at Boughton made by the local borough coun- dreds of thou- A MAIDSTONE family manTW Otheftse rbackious ina Juneccid e2016.nts oHen alsothe had cillor. surface. If this is a leaving party continueswas spent to have dealing rights with to enter, almost Monchelsea Recreation Ground on sands of pounds,of the moment but the damage done remains. “fully regrets” stealing a coatA2 74outstandingSutton Roa dfinesin a sofm overany d£800.ays Burberry Lane, near Kingswood,prospect facing you ideally on giving14,000 reasonable incidents notice. in 2016-17. This is a Saturday June 30, with proceeds to says Cllr Gill Fort from Marks and Spencer afterha ve leHisd t odefencefresh c solicitoralls for asaid:n up -“My has been targeted by waste • Think carefully about the consequences of sharp increase on the previous 12 Medical Detection Dogs. date on progress for the Leeds-Lan- then look to get • Analyse your financial resources to work out being laid off work, a court heard. client fully regrets this offence. In dumpers for years, but in recent acting irresponsibly, especially when it relates to months when just over 10,000 in- For more information call Jill gley relief road. months, the problem hassensible become support from how they can meetstances everyone’s cost £244,000. needs. Drawing Father-of-three James Macdon- his words, he told me he was ‘hard From left: Emily Hurcomb, Lucy Aves, Tayla Celik, Katy Bray, Isabelle Dawn Harrison your children or to money. Children are very Skinner on 01622 744098 or 07840 A schoolboy was hit on Tuesday, moreHead acute of Family with team waste oftenthe outset strewn to help you up a priority list ofCllr what Fort you welcomed and your estranged a joint initia- 2904ald86. (26), of Canterbury House, up and didn’t have any money’. Jarvis and Anna Slokenburga vulnerable when parents separate, they need to March 13, and two days later, a man across the middle of themanage road. the turmoil. partner/spousetive need by is the important. Environment Enquiring Agency Shepway, stole the £99 coat fromwa s aHeirl iisfte ad familyto hosp manital a fandter a hascoll ithree- Cllr Gill Fort, pictured right, said: know both parents love them and will continue and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Maidstone town centre because children. He recently got laid off Below are some pointers to consider what help is available in the form of benefits will May Day fair sion between a car and a lorry. Leeds-Langley “Every month we are having toi- to be there. Financial pressures can lead to dards Agency to clamp down on “he had no money”. Caworkmpai gandner shassa idhadth eissuesy did withnot hisrel ief ro50ad and years of roller skills lets,• It may sinks not and be construction too late to repair waste the damage. also assist in continuingunlicensed to waste meet carriers. the family’s But she HEADDuringCORN’ S hisMa y arrest,Fair w il Maidstonel again benefits. He tells me he has never dumped in the village, specifically relationship problems. Running two households believes the high cost to small firms wish to make capital out of the inci- WILLact cam- Lots of organisations offer support and guidance budget. takeMagistratesplace on th Courte Ma yheardDay theba ndefen-k been out of work before and is MAIDSTONE Roller Dance Club cel- Gold medals were picked up by in Burberry Lane. We are now will onlymore compound than any a financialHeadcorn pressures. and Chart Sutton. Last of disposing of construction waste dents but did claim it illustrates a paigneebratedr Jenny the group’s 50th birthday Maidstone members Lucy Aves, Zac on practical issues people face when threatened • Taking early advice can help you steer a safer holiddantay. told officers: “Fair enough,ne edfindingfor a by itp ahardss to tore lcope.ieve g Herow hopesing to thinking of installing cameras on year after it was year, Maidstone Borough Council at a transfer station is costing coun- Suttonwith some friendly competition. Martin, Oliver Martin and Laura privatewith separation. land to oversee Relate the Counselling problem dumpedcan help and• When torched. one Theperson church leaves thecleared family 911 home, cases they of fly-tipping and cils dearly. Cllr Fort made her re- Oryou’veganise dcaughtby H emead credorn handed.”School volufindmes ao newf tra fjobfic .soonMaj otor starthou sfresh.”e- course through the dilemmas that separation Members invited 150 skaters Donogue. Oliver and his partner area.” car park has also seen illegal dump- more than 163 have been recorded marks as one of the borough’s PTFA,Prosecuting,the event w Jamesill be Nicholson Day ssaid: Chairman of the bench, Paul En-When we talk about the relief road, “We really do fear a serious inci- identify if a relationship can be repaired or guide rarely take all their belongings with them at brings. Try to preserve some respect for the building schemes in the area are from across the country to take part Rosie, from Invicta, took gold and a A recent event in Burberry Lane ing. since April this year. The ap- closest transfer stations at North Gree“Atn b e aroundtween 1 2 4pmpm a onnd 4 Octoberpm. 29, glish said: “It’s a shame your fineswe always seem to be talking about dent, and this one – with the young them to come to terms with the loss of their once. Sensible arrangements need to be agreed likely to make matters worse. in an It’s a Knock-Out-style contest. bronze medal was awarded to the saw a caravan burned out while a But it is also a problem in many proaching darker eveningsother person will Farm,no matter Tunbridge how Wells, difficult announced the Thtwoe PT policeFA ar eofficersprodu cwereing a viewingfree have not been kept up to date torhe congestion rather than the safety child – goes to show the risks. The union. If reconciliation is not possible, a The boy – aged 12 or 13 and wear- The two-day friendly, which in- Maidstone Magic dance team of car remains on a footpath nearby, rural areas,to allow including them to Langley, return for theirprompt remaining a risein items. illegalsituation. tipping. Talkit to will one be of closed the specialist for 10 weeks. family progCCTVramm e footagefor the da aty a Marksnd any - and this could have been handled veryasp ect, and these sorts of incidents relief road can’t come soon ing school uniform – suffered a sus- cluded Kent clubs Meridian, Med- Zac Martin, Anna Sheldrake and specialist family lawyer is the next point of call. Joint items within the home should be preserved team at Whitehead Monckton who have a one Spencer,who wou whenld lik etheyto a noticeddvertise theis de-pectedifferently.d broken le g However,after being h weit b y havewi ll be less likely to happen.” enough.” asked to call Maz on 07970 535790 way, Invicta, and Pegasus was held Beth Sullivan. •STAPLEHURST Explore the alternative vineyard dispute Hush resolution until an agreement can be reached on a fair wealth of experienceHeath in Estate these willmatters. be supplying to fendant in the men’s wear section.a c arheardat the youjunc havetion o stayedf Sutto outn R oofad trou-Jenny Sutton, a campaigner for A new non-political pro-relief Heath will send its sparkling wine to Canadian consumers is hugely wel- or email advertising@headcorn- at the Dolphin Leisure Centre in The club also picked up another opportunities like mediation or collaborativeVineyarddistribution. ‘bubbling’ over deal They recognised him and wentan d Wbleil landingt oyoun S tareree ttrying. to get a job.W ILLact and a resident of Willing- group headed by former Langley Canada after landing a deal with come and they will be flying the schoolptfa.org.uk. Haywards Heath. four silvers and eight bronzes. downstairs to investigate. Kent“Weco uarent ygoingcou tonc fineillor you,Pa uwhichl ton Street, admits that there are con- parish councillor Wendy Young one of the world’s largest alcohol gramme. The “significant deal” was trading relationship as the UK flag for the high-quality of wine If you would be interested in The highlight was a skate-off by New members can join a club “He put on a £99 coat and walkedCo opwiller s beaid consolidated: “This is a b withusy ryouroad ex-cerns about the danger to has been formed to represent all buyers. announced as Prime Minister leaves the EU. being produced in Britain.” having a stall, with pitches avail- pairs pulled together in a draw. starter session on any Saturday at Canterbury 01227 643266 Maidstone 01622 698051 straight out without paying.” and istingthere ifines.s alw Getays gtheseoing outto bthee a waype destrians. those who live along the B2163, in Hush Heath’s Balfour 1503 Clas- Theresa May was in Ottawa for Mrs May said: “It’s great to see Hush Heath owner Richard Bal- able from £20, contact Lizell Maidstone's Katy Bray came the YMCA in Tovil. Anyone inter- The court heard Macdonald hadris k oandf in cmoveidents onlik ewiththis .yourA lot life.”of th e “When my daughter and two the same way that WILLact repre- sic Cuvée is the firstTenterden English talks 01580 with Canadian 767540 PM Justin that English sparkling wine has four-Lynn said: “Hush Heath is a Williams on 01622 892428 or email third from 28 duos with partner ested should email info@maid- sparkling wine selected for the Trudeau on how the UK and been making a name for itself, not family-owned winery…and we are 10 previous convictions for 16 of-traffic Macdonaldthat goes d pleadedown the guiltyroad g tora ndchildren try to cross the road sents Willington Street. It is called www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk s t a l l h o l d e r s @ h e a d c o r n - doesn’t need to be there, and if there to get Niall,to my fromhou sMeridian.e, one of us has to Leedstonerollerdanceclub.co.uk.s-Langley Relief Road Act i on Liquor Contril Board (LCBO) of On- Canada can further strengthen just in the UK but further afield too. very excited to see our wines avail- schofences,olptfa.o therg.u mostk. recent one for a theft and was given a £177 fine. tario’s Vintages Classics Pro- their ties to build the closest, freest “The news today that Hush able in the Canadian market." was a relief road, it wouldn’t be. try and stop the traffic,” she said. Group. WhiteheadWhitehead Monckton Monckton Ltd Ltd (no.08366029) (no.08366029) registered registered in in England England & Wales.& Wales. Registered Registered office oce 72 72 King King Street, Street, Maidstone Maidstone, Kent Kent, ME14 Me141BL. 1BL. Authorised Authorised and and regulated regulated by by the the Solicitors Solicitors Regulation Regulation Authority Authority under under no. no. 608279 608279

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An artist’s impression of the new M&S store at Eclipse Park, which is due to open in October 2020, and right, the store under construction M&S store to open next year THE brand new M&S store for Maidstone near junction seven of the M20 is taking shape and will be open for business next year. The developer, the Gallagher rior works by early spring, and Eclipse Park an atractive proposi- of the application that the appli- Group, says the scheme at Eclipse M&S will then take about six tion, they said. cants take steps to mitigate Park is on time and on budget, months to fit and stock the inte- It is hoped its proximity to the against the effects it might cause. with a store opening date pen- rior.” M20 will also attract customers That’s why we have taken a fairly cilled in for October 2020. The arrival of a new M&S store from further afield. robust position on this.” It was scheduled to open this is widely anticipated, because it Business development group Gallagher has landscaped the year, but that date had to be offers easy access and free park- One Maidstone hopes developer site to give the plants a chance to pushed back in April. ing, two elements the county contributions (section 106 money) establish over winter and laid a Gallagher Group chief execu- town is lacking. can be diverted into providing concrete apron for the service tive Lance Taylor said: “It’s all Local councillors expressed mitigation to the town centre. area. Currently, it is finishing good news. We're on time and in concerns that the popularity of Spokesman Ilsa Butler said: cladding and glass work. budget. We are very pleased with out of town centres reflected “One Maidstone is here to pro- Mr Taylor said: “We’re really the design and the quality of badly on Maidstone. Customers mote the businesses in the town looking forward to the comple- work. We are looking forward to faced with gridlocked roads and centre and that is why we ex- tion. We think it will be a great completing the shell and the exte- high parking charges will find pressed our concerns at the time benefit to the town.” Witness plea Burglar’s crime spree Police attend after collision A BURGLAR has been jailed for river drama A PENSIONER was “seriously in- more than three years after a spate THREE police cars were called jured” following a collision in of thefts across Kent. to Maidstone town centre amid Langley, Maidstone. Leon Holder (30) was caught on concerns for a distressed At 4.45pm Monday, November CCTV breaking into houses and woman. 25, a beige Skoda Octavia travel- cars, leaving petrol stations with- Police officers were seen in ling from the direction of Heath out payment and driving offences. Mill Street, near the Arch- Road collided with a silver Maidstone Crown Court heard bishop's Palace, after being Suzuki Splash on Leeds Road. that at 11.25pm on April 27, Holder called to Knightrider Street at The passenger of the Suzuki and another man stole a Mercedes around 11.45am on November Splash, a woman in her 80s, was ML250 from Batten Walk, Maid- 26. stone, after burgling the owner’s taken to hospital with serious in- Following a search of the area, house and stealing the car keys. juries. the woman was found and The next day, Holder and his as- passed over to health care pro- Officers are keen to speak to sociate burgled an address in fessionals. anyone who may have witnessed charged with the burglaries, theft Charlton Lane, West Farleigh and A Kent Police spokesman the vehicles prior to or during the offences, driving without a licence, stole car keys and two bags. said: “At about 11.45am on Tues- collision. They are also keen to driving without insurance and They took the VW Golf parked possession of Class B drugs. day, November 26, patrols at- speak to anyone who can provide outside the house and filled up the He pleaded guilty to all charges tended Knightrider Street, dash cam footage. car at a petrol station in Cranbrook and on October 24 he was sen- Maidstone following concerns Anyone with information is before leaving without paying. tenced to three years and four raised for a distressed woman. asked to call The Serious Collision A search of his home found months in prison. He also received “Officers later located the Investigation Unit on 01622 clothing identical to the items he six points on his driving licence. woman at a location close to the 798538 quoting RY/SW/120/19. was seen wearing in the CCTV Investigating officer Police Con- River Medway. They spoke to Alternatively, witnesses can con- footage. The officers also seized stable Robert Fagg said: “Holder her and she was passed into the tact the unit by emailing them at 3.7g of amphetamine. did not care about the effect his care of to health care profession- [email protected]. Holder, of Hawkhurst, was later crimes had on the victims.” als.”

8 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News downsmail.co.ukBusiness Focus A new breakthrough treatment for dry eyes Dry eye is a condition that many people just suffer in silence with but now that can be quickly remedied. Award- winning opticians Buchanan Optometrists now offer E-Eye, a revolutionary new treatment to eradicate the discomfort of dry eyes or meibomian gland dysfunction. 2017-2018) is understandably eyesight is one of your body’s The treatment is non-invasive excited to be able to offer this most precious functions and your and painless and can be revolutionary new treatment eyes should be an area that you completed in just a few minutes, to his clients and explained the protect as well as you can. Just providing lasting relief from impact it is having: “Treating putting up with symptoms of dry gritty, sore, dry, irritable, blurry dry eyes has always meant eye is not just uncomfortable, it or watery eyes. Buchanan using drops or other at-home can also affect your long-term Optometrists decided to invest regimes. The amazing new eye health. in this innovative solution as an E-Eye can often mean you need If you are suffering from dry eye increasing number of dry eye no more time-consuming daily symptoms, from mild irritation sufferers came to their clinic treatments. It is a breakthrough, through to the more severe having been unable to find giving amazing results and relief symptoms like impaired vision, relief from their symptoms in to our clients.” book a consultation at Buchanan other traditional treatments like Optometrists to find out if E-Eye eye drops. With E-Eye, you can The statistics behind the could be the right solution for reduce or even stop your drops treatment shows that Buchanan you. Don’t let dry eyes dictate and at home dry eye treatments. Optometrists have probably what you do. Fix your dry eye found the best dry eye treatment problem at its source. Find The Kent-based opticians, in the market. Research instant, long-lasting relief founded by Alisdair and shows that 85-90% of people from dry eye by booking an Kathryn Buchanan, spent time worldwide can make a significant appointment on 01622 535701. researching the effectiveness of improvement to both the clinical E-Eye and found that it was able measurements of dry eye and to deliver much better results the symptoms by using E-Eye. Book your E-Eye than other solutions. E-Eye 95.7% of people recommend appointment today offers longer lasting relief from the treatment, with the majority dry, blurry and watery eyes. of cases showing improvement Call Now The quick and easy procedure after just 3 treatments. uses light to trigger the nerves attached to the meibomian Leaving dry eye untreated is 01622 535701 glands to stimulate secretions more harmful than many people and contraction of the gland. realise with long-term dryness 56 Malling Road, Alisdair Buchanan (voted sometimes leads to ulceration on Snodland, Kent best Optometrist in the UK your cornea and scarring. Your ME6 5NB

Maidstone January 2020 9 News downsmail.co.uk Chippy scheme to the homeless Police impersonator A BARMING chippy has introduced a scheme to help the homeless. The takeaway in Tonbridge Road is offering its customers the option avoids going to jail of buying one portion of food and A MAIDSTONE man who used He already has a record for sim- another to give to a rough sleeper. a flashing blue light to pull over ilar threatening and abusive of- People living on the street can a driver on the M2 narrowly fences dating back 10 years. take a redeemable note pinned to cheated jail after pleas from the He said that he was determined the wall of Barming Fish and Chip dock. to set a good example to his chil- Shop in exchange for food or drink. Christopher Dance (33), of Red- dren in the future. The business regularly helps one start Avenue, appeared before a Dance told the court: “I’m not a local homeless man but have fed district judge in November horrible person – I’m a genuinely around 50 others. charged with impersonating a po- nice person and I get on with ev- The idea came from a staff mem- lice officer and using threatening erybody. But I’m not saying that I ber who had posted about helping behaviour in October. am an angel, because you can see the local rough sleeper and others After admitting pulling a car my criminal record.” came forward as a result. over on the motorway using 999- Magistrates accepted that Now rough sleepers can come style lights and having a row with Dance was trying to change his into the premses, take a note from police officers at the time of his ar- behaviour for the sake of his three the “pay it forward” wall in ex- rest, he appeared before Maid- children. change for a prepaid meal. stone magistrates for sentencing. He was sentenced to 12 weeks One customer said: “It’s a great The court heard that the male in jail, suspended for 18 months, idea. Every food business should be motorist who Dance tried to stop and must undertake a special pro- thinking of something similar. The was suspicious and called police gramme and do unpaid work. He good thing is that it is discreet and because the defendant had three was ordered to pay £207 in costs allows the recipient an element of children in the back of his car. and victim surcharge. dignity. “It would be good if other The bench at Maidstone Magis- The defendant was warned that takeaways operated a similar trates Court had the option of he will go to prison if he breaks scheme, especially during the cold sending Dance, who works a the terms of the suspended sen- winter months.” plumber, to jail. tence.

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Maidstone January 2020 11 News downsmail.co.uk Festival date THE organisers of LET’S Rock Fine for jobless man Kent have announced the retro music festival will be held at Mote Park in Maid- stone next year. The event, with guests from who took car after row the 1980s including Wet Wet stupidly drove off in his girl- Wet, ABC, Howard Jones and A JOBLESS father of three stole his girlfriend’s car after dropping friend’s car to get away.” Go West will be hosted at the her home following an argument, The court heard Phillips’ chil- park on Saturday, August 29. a court heard. dren require regular hospital ap- Lewis Phillips (24), of no fixed pointments as one of his sons has Sing carols abode, took the vehicle from her glaucoma in one of his eyes, and FLEX your vocal cords by parent’s house in Maidstrone, another son is autistic. joining Maidstone church after her father came outside to Mr Warren added: “Mr Phillips Carol Service on Saturday, De- confront him. works as a hod carrier but unfor- cember 21. The court heard the “industri- tunately lost his job last week and The service, at All Saints’ ous” former hod carrier had two has been made redundant. He Church, in Mill Street, starts at previous convictions for four of- tells me he has worked full-time 4.30pm. fences dating back to 2016 and since school and expects to get a has more than £300 in outstand- job soon.” ing court costs. Chairman of the bench, Paul Pizza night Prosecuting, James Nichols told English said: “We understand the EXPECT a night of classic Maidstone Magistrates Court: “At difficult situation you are in, but soul, ska, RnB and funk covers around 9.25pm on October 13, po- you can’t just go around taking from The Chillbillies at Maid- lice received an emergency call Defending, James Warren said: people’s cars without them know- stone’s Pizza Express on Sat- about a stolen Vauxhall Meriva. “He had been arguing with the ing whenever you feel like it.” urday, December 28. Two officers found and stopped mother of his three kids and Phillips pleaded guilty to tak- Doors open at the Earl’s the vehicle and told the driver to dropped her off at her parents’ ing a motor vehicle without the Street venue at 7pm, with the turn off the engine and put on the house. She had obviously ex- owner’s consent and was ordered show starting at 8.30pm. handbrake. plained the situation to her par- to pay a £277 fine. He also re- Tickets are £15. “Mr Phillips told officers he did- ents and her dad came outside to ceived six penalty points on his li- n’t have a licence or insurance.” speak to him. Mr Phillips then cence.

12 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Equity Release: Good or Bad? company in return for a lump sum. This meant that seen people’s lives change when they have been any potential inheritance was immediately lost as able to use it to pay for Home Improvements that were any future financial options. Whilst there are still some schemes of this nature available today, has kept people in their homes when they felt the most people opt for schemes where you can retain only option was to sell. I have also helped a number the ownership of the property, and the Equity of parents release equity to help their children buy Release company has a first charge - just like any homes or to help family in other ways.” other mortgage. In Sarah’s opinion, somebody considering Equity Release needs advice, guidance and information I have heard I could lose my house or leave a debt that is relevant to their particular situation. “There to my children With the “no negative equity” guarantees available with most of todays’ plans there is no fear of any be confusing without the right advice”. onward debt. Equally, as you still own the property and the lender has a secured charge, there is no fear With 27 years’ experience in the finance industry Sarah Ferrell spends much of her time talking to of losing your home. and over 6 years specialising in Equity Release, people who are retired, or approaching retirement, Sarah takes pride in the time and care she takes and are considering their financial options. What if I want to move house? when speaking with clients. She is happy to visit Despite lots of television advertising and Most of todays’ scheme are “portable” so they can your home and, unlike many banks, she is not newspaper coverage there is still confusion as to be transferred to another property. There are a whether Equity Release is a “good thing” or not. number of factors to discuss if somebody is suit her clients. Over the years there has been a significant considering moving, and there are potential costs amount of bad press on the subject, yet now the involved, however most schemes are flexible and adverts are all encouraging people to use the able to move from one property to another. Call Sarah on equity in their homes to help finance their Sarah says, “I do consider there are massive retirement….so which is right? benefits to Equity Release when done in the right circumstances, however there can be 07789 007447 Why do so many people still think of Equity long term implications that clients need to be Release and a “bad thing” aware of and it is important to be clear about 01622 631372 The original schemes of 40+ years ago were all the factors so we can choose the RIGHT [email protected] predominantly “Home Reversion” schemes which option for the individual.” www.sarahferrell-equityrelease.co.uk involved selling the property to the finance “I am a great advocate of Equity Release as I have Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits.

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Maidstone January 2020 15 News downsmail.co.uk Knives seized A MAIDSTONE man was arrested on suspicion of attempted GBH after a number of weapons were seized from his car. Patrol officers stopped the vehicle in Loose Road on November 22, where knives, a hammer and a cat- apult were seized. A Kent Police spokesman said: “Officers stopped a vehicle in Loose Road, Maidstone and arrested the driver on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm. Christmas jumpers and party hats were all part of the fun at last year’s Christmas dinner “The officers also seized a quantity of knives, a hammer and a cat- apult from the vehicle. The suspect, a man in his 40s from the Maid- stone area, remains in custody.” ‘Join us for dinner’ DON’T be lonely this Christmas - gency service personnel, including acre of land into a community Assault case that is the message from a big- Kent Fire and Rescue, South East wildlife haven. Since then, it has A MAIDSTONE man is set to hearted volunteer group who are Coast Ambulance Service and Kent grown as the number of volunteers stand trial after being accused of inviting the elderly and emer- Police – anybody who is working and participants swelled. beating a woman. gency service crews to lunch. on Christmas Day, and any elders By keeping poultry and growing David Brown (27), of Owletts Nikki Gough, founder of Shep- who may like to join us. their own crops, participants hope Close, Shepway, denied three way Chariots, aims to make the “Christmas jumpers and Christ- to spread the word about healthy charges including the criminal festive season a little bit brighter mas hats are a must. ” living and teaching children where damage of a memory box, assault for those who are alone or away Spaces are limited, so to book their food comes from. by beating, and engaging in con- from their families. your place or make a donation, call A spokesman said: “Our garden trolling and coercive behaviour. The free dinner is at the Shepway Nikki on 07960 989785 or email her is open to all who wish to come Mr Brown appeared at Maid- youth and community centre at at [email protected]. and visit, volunteers are welcome, stone Magistrates Court on 1.30pm on December 15. The charity was formed on the or just pop along to our free bacon November 11, and his case was Nikki said: “We would also like Shepway estate just over a year ago roll and cuppa morning on a adjourned to December 18. to extend this invitation to emer- with a mission to transform half an Thursday.”

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16 Maidstone January 2020 News downsmail.co.uk Knives seized A MAIDSTONE man was arrested ENTERTAINING THE FAMILY on suspicion of attempted GBH after a number of weapons were THIS CHRISTMAS? seized from his car. Patrol officers stopped the vehicle in Loose Road on November 22, where knives, a hammer and a cat- Get your dream kitchen by replacing the worktops, doors and drawer apult were seized. fronts for a whole new look in time for Christmas! A Kent Police spokesman said: “Officers stopped a vehicle in Loose Road, Maidstone and arrested the driver on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm. Christmas jumpers and party hats were all part of the fun at last year’s Christmas dinner “The officers also seized a quantity of knives, a hammer and a cat- apult from the vehicle. The suspect, a man in his 40s from the Maid- stone area, remains in custody.” ‘Join us for dinner’ DON’T be lonely this Christmas - gency service personnel, including acre of land into a community Assault case that is the message from a big- Kent Fire and Rescue, South East wildlife haven. Since then, it has A MAIDSTONE man is set to hearted volunteer group who are Coast Ambulance Service and Kent grown as the number of volunteers stand trial after being accused of inviting the elderly and emer- Police – anybody who is working and participants swelled. beating a woman. gency service crews to lunch. on Christmas Day, and any elders By keeping poultry and growing David Brown (27), of Owletts Nikki Gough, founder of Shep- who may like to join us. their own crops, participants hope Close, Shepway, denied three way Chariots, aims to make the “Christmas jumpers and Christ- to spread the word about healthy charges including the criminal festive season a little bit brighter mas hats are a must. ” living and teaching children where damage of a memory box, assault for those who are alone or away Spaces are limited, so to book their food comes from. by beating, and engaging in con- from their families. your place or make a donation, call A spokesman said: “Our garden trolling and coercive behaviour. The free dinner is at the Shepway Nikki on 07960 989785 or email her is open to all who wish to come Mr Brown appeared at Maid- youth and community centre at at [email protected]. and visit, volunteers are welcome, stone Magistrates Court on 1.30pm on December 15. The charity was formed on the or just pop along to our free bacon November 11, and his case was Nikki said: “We would also like Shepway estate just over a year ago roll and cuppa morning on a adjourned to December 18. to extend this invitation to emer- with a mission to transform half an Thursday.”

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Maidstone January 2020 17 News downsmail.co.uk Lighting up for Christmas MAIDSTONE showed its passion for Christmas by turning out in their thousands to Jubilee Square to see the lights go on in the town. Organised for the first time by the town’s business representative One Maidstone, the event attracted nearly 5,000 people and led to a 17% increase in footfall at nearby Fremlin Walk. The red and white display was organised by Maidstone company Gala Lights, and was turned on in phases across the town centre by the Mayor of Maidstone, Marion Ring, the cast of the Hazlitt’s panto Beauty and Beast and with the help of Neave and Nya Elliott – the winners of a competition at The Mall. While Santa mixed with those in the crowd, former X-Factor star Jake Quickenden (Danon in Beauty and the Beast) wowed everyone with a couple of songs, along with the Molehill Academy and Military Wives choirs and the Powerhouse Gospel singers. One Maidstone’s Sarah-Jane Adams said: “We were really pleased with the turnout for our first lights show. It stayed dry, with a small shower right at the end, but everyone seemed to have a great time.” Jake Quickenden (left) joins panto stars and Maidstone Mayor Marion Ring to turn on the lights

Competition winners Neave and Nya Elliott joined the stars on the stage

18 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Hospital silent on killing case A PRIVATE mental hospital in Maidstone has refused to confirm whether it will co-operate with an inquiry into how a patient was released a month early, only to kill his father days later. A judge has recommended a full investigation after a Jonathan SAFETY CONCERNS MacMillan was released from the Cygnet Hospital at the Kent Med- RESIDENTS, parishes, and com- ical Campus four weeks before munity leaders voiced concerns his due date. He killed his father about siting the Cygnet facility just four days later. near high density housing but MacMillan (28) returned to his were assured there was no risk. family in Barrow-in-Furness after But the building of special what appears to have been an al- needs and primary schools next leged administrative error. door to Cygnet has caused even He was meant to be discharged greater alarm. from the private hospital, which Boxley parish councillor Wendy treats some mentally-ill criminals Hinder said: “It has always been and people with personality dis- my belief that they are in the wrong place. Totally unsuitable.” orders, on July 14, but in fact left Residents have heard screams the facility at the Kent Medical and swearing from the complex, Campus on June 14. and fear this could distress pupils. On June 18, he killed his father John MacMillan (70). Jonathan MacMillan and right, his father John MacMillan l THE Cygnet Hospital was subject to 30 police reports in a 26- Emergency services raced to the defendant’s mother deserved to to confirm it would co-operate day period for violent assaults. family home to find the victim know why he was released early, with the inquiry called by the Kent Police followed up violent with chest and throat injuries. describing it as an “appalling judge, its spokesman Chris patient on patient conduct and MacMillan appeared at Preston state of affairs that requires a full Calland refused to comment. criminal damage incidents be- Crown Court on November 8, inquiry”. A spokesman for CAMHSin- tween April 2-28. Apart from one where he denied his father’s mur- He also said the wider public CRISIS, a pressure group cam- criminal damage allegation, all der, but admitted manslaughter was entitled to be concerned be- paigning for better treatment for the others relate to actual bodily on the grounds of diminished re- cause of another “serious failing” young people in Mental hospitals, harm or assault without injury. sponsibility. He is due to be sen- by the mental health services. said: “This young man should not Apart from three police cau- tenced later. Despite repeated attempts to have been released at all, let alone tions, no further action was taken The Honorary Recorder of Pre- get Cygnet’s London-based PR a month early. I really feel for the in any of the cases. ston Judge Mark Brown said the firm, Sapience Communications, family.” Thief burgled lock-up A THIEF who broke into a lock- art-Day attempted to cover the up within the grounds of a internal CCTV camera and then stately home in Teston has been stole gardening tools from the Cllr Gordon jailed. building. Newton, Luke Stewart-Day, 32, of Inside the garage attending of- pictured on Coombe Road, Maidstone, ficers discovered the racking one of his smashed two large holes in the storage had been pushed over regular litter- wall of the building at Barham and later forensic investigators picks with his Court so he could climb in and found Stewart-Day’s DNA on a dog Bonnie steals thousands of pounds racking strap. worth of gardening tools. A number of petrol-powered Stewart-Day left DNA evi- gardening tools were stolen Gordon’s getting better dence at the scene and was later worth almost £4,000 and approx- RESPECTED borough councillor member told us: “I was taken ill arrested for the crimes. imately £3,000 worth of damage Gordon Newton is recovering with a serious heart attack and I Maidstone Crown Court heard was caused to the building. after a major heart attack. was transferred to a London Hos- how on the morning of May 15 Stewart-Day was arrested on The Independent Maidstone pital for a triple heart by-pass. 2019, it was discovered that the June 1 2019 and following a member Cllr Newton, who is in “Staff at the Maidstone Hospi- grounds keeper’s lock-up garage search of his home address, offi- his 70s and a stonemason by tal Coronary Care Unit have been had been broken into overnight. cers seized a Makita Hedge trim- trade, was taken ill two weeks ago absolutely fantastic in their han- The building was being used to mer from the back garden. The after complaining of pains in his dling of my case, and I cannot store gardening tools and equip- grounds keeper identified this as shoulder. praise them enough.” ment to maintain the five acres of being stolen from the lock-up. After going to a local hospital, Fellow Independent Maidstone land at the Georgian property. Stewart-Day pleaded guilty to he was transferred to a specialist councillor, Eddie Powell said: CCTV captured images of a burglary and was sentenced to unit in London for triple by-pass “Let's hope Gordon is back in the van exploring the grounds and one year in prison. surgery. thick of it very soon. We all wish driving up to the lock-up. A large Detective Constable Rachel It is unlikely he will be back in him well. cloud of dust was also seen on Laidlaw said: “Stewart-Day cau- the local politics’ front line until “He is a hard-working council- the footage indicating the build- used a considerable amount of the spring. lor who is well thought of and ing was being broken into. damage to the property at The Downswood and Otham packs a lot into his life.” Using tiles from the roof, Stew- Barham Court.”

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Maidstone January 2020 21 News downsmail.co.uk Traﬃc fears over homes plan OPPONENTS to a plan for another 840 homes off Hermitage Lane have criticised the council for approving “more traffic mayhem” for the area.

Allington’s borough councillor and the bridge that means the road Dan Daley has written an official off the roundabout can’t be complaint to Tonbridge and widened. Malling Council over the way plan- “The traffic problems here will ning officers secured councillors’ now simply get worse and worse. support for the development of If this roundabout blocks, the fields opposite McDonalds drive- whole of Maidstone blocks.” thru. Criticism of the decision also He says a photograph of a traffic- came from Ditton, Larkfield as well free Hermitage Lane presented in as Aylesford, with its chairman support of the homes depicted the John Balcombe “gobsmacked” by road as “some sort of country lane” the decision. and local representations about the “It is an understatement to say “grid-locked” state of the roads we are disappointed that borough were ignored. councillors and TMBC officers Cllr Daley and Aylesford Parish could not understand the implica- Council spoke against Gladman’s tions of this massive development plan, that was recommended for in an already gridlocked Ayles- approval by planning, but just ford. three councillors, representing “It seems the aim of officers and Aylesford and Burham, voted be heard and coalescence of devel- Crouch in describing the plan as the leader of the council was to se- against. opment should be resisted. “barking mad”, with a proposed cure a deal with Gladman’s for a Cllr Daley, pictured at the round- “Unfortunately, this framework bypass “emptying the contents of contribution to build a ‘magic about, said: “There wasn’t a single also provided councils with about the new estate and some 900 cars” roundabout’ at Quarry Wood. car, van or person in the picture, 300 paragraphs of how this could be – on to the inadequate Poppy Fields What it has failed to see is that this which, I suggest, must have been avoided and now we will have not roundabout. in itself will not tackle the funda- taken at 4am.” a blade of grass along the A20 from He said: “The council made no mental issue of where all this traffic He also raised the issue that the Maidstone to Borough Green.” mention of the proposal to double disperses to.” National Planning Framework of He joined the area’s prospective production and vehicle movements Maidstone Borough Council has 2012 made clear local voices would Parliamentary candidate Tracey at the incinerator on the 20:20 estate objected to the proposal.

Neve Mann, end- Ban for drink-driver of-life care clinical nurse (centre) A HEARTBROKEN pipe fitter down just two weeks before the with Tracey downed eight beers on a boozy offence. He moved out to live Bleakley, chief night out before driving home. with his mum and turned to alco- executive of Hos- Jack Carter (31) was spotted hol to drown his sorrows. swerving across Chatham Road, “He works 72 hours a week, pice UK, and Maidstone, in his Mini Cooper at seven days a week and travels all chair of the Na- 3am on October 19, more than over the country for work. It is a tional Garden twice the legal limit. wide range of circumstances that Scheme, Martin The court heard the project have brought us here today.” McMillan OBE. manager’s dad had recently The court heard since breaking passed away due to significant al- up with his partner, he drank six cohol dependency at the age of to 10 pints of beer a day and on Comedy night award 59, and Carter had split up with the night of the offence downed his long-term girlfriend just days eight beers before driving home. A NOVEL approach to end-of-life talk about death and to respct before the offence took place. Chairman of the bench, Ann care has won the local NHS an people’s wishes at the end of life. Prosecuting, James Nichols told Hamilton said: “Eight pints and award. A spokesman for the Maidstone Maidstone Magistrates Court: you didn’t feel drunk? You could Staff held a comedy night dur- and Tunbridge Wells NHS said the “The defendant was witnessed have killed someone or yourself. ing Dying Matters Week featuring event was sold out and received speeding and swerving from the “If you ploughed into a family, Paul Kerensa (writer of TV’s Mi- positive feedback for its amusing kerb. He was observed on three things would be very different for randa), Jim Tavare (Harry Potter and thought-provoking content. occasions before he was pulled you and your personal situation actor) and Mitch Benn (Radio 4). Profits helped fund end-of-life over and arrested. does not excuse this. This is not They won the Hospice UK care initiatives across the Maid- “This will be his second dis- the first time you have been dis- panel’s Innovation in Dying Mat- stone and Tunbridge Wells NHS qualification in 10 years.” qualified.” ters Award for inviting employees Trust. His defence solicitor said: Carter, of Bingham Road, and family to the event, believed The Hospice UK judging panel “There is no explanation as to Rochester, was given a 12-month to be the first of its kind held in an praised the event as “a great idea why he did it and he agrees it is community order with a six- acute setting. delivered well, it stood out from a unacceptable. He thoroughly re- month alcohol treatment require- The comics shared their experi- set of creative, exciting entries” grets driving that night. ment. He was also given a £867 ences and reflections on near and which produced a lot of laugh- “He lost his father last year and fine and was banned from driving death experiences, funerals and ter and helped start some key con- his long-term relationship broke for three years. dying and highlighted the need to- versations about end-of-life care.

22 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Review: Hazlitt hits the right note Injured panto star Jake BEAUTY & The Beast turned out to be a tonic for the troops this Christmas. Laughter filled the Hazlitt The- atre as the audience revelled in a says ‘show must go on’ couple of hours of top-class panto fun set against a year of gloom REALITY star Jake Quickenden organised by One Maidstone, last and uncertainty in the wider has bravely carried on in the Ha- month. Jubilee Square was packed world. zlitt theatre’s panto, Beauty & for the festive party with Jake The place was full of children, The Beast, this Christmas, de- singing live. who delighted in the slapstick spite breaking a bone in his The star recently landed a role in gags and madcap antics of D’Jon neck. the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks. (David Zachary) and the effortless Jake, pictured left, injured himself The singer turned reality televi- double entendres and off the cuff recently on holiday and it was dis- sion personality shared a heartfelt ad libs of the dame, Mademoiselle covered he had a small fracture that post on social media about his lca- Marmalade (Ian Good). lead him to pulling out of the reer move. Reality star Jake Quickenden, Christmas special of Dancing on Ice. He wrote: “I’m excited to test my- playing Danon, fluffed his lines a A spokesman for the Hazlitt said: self again at something new. Don’t couple of times, but no one “Jake has pulled out of the ITV let people tell you that you can’t do seemed to care. show, but he joined the rest of the something. And it added to a slight sense of opening night chaos. cast for rehearsals and has been on “Work hard and good things will But in truth, it was anything but. stage every day since the perfor- happen.” The music was tight as a drum and mances started. We now know that The 350-seat venue stages its an- the dance routines virtually flaw- Jake’s not the sort of guy to let peo- nual festival of Christmas fun from less. Many of those on stage were ple down. He’s a trooper and a pro. November 30 until December 31, home-grown talents showing a “We understand the doctors have with sales well up on this time last deal of promise for the future. told him not to do any heavy lifting, year. Many of the dates are sold out Well done, too, to Will Elliott as so sweeping the Dame off her feet is or are nearly sold out. the Beast and John Conway as Doc going to be out of the question.” Go to www.hazlitttheatre.com to for great performances. Jake was the star turn at the check dates and availability of Review by Simon Finlay Christmas lights switch on event, seats. Business Focus A personal service at a time of loss Michael Lawrence, difficult decisions about how best to remember celebrates life. and his son Robert a loved one and to meet their personal wishes. "Our approach is simple. We sit with you in our along with Kim and With so many years’ experience, Family office or your home, taking you slowly and Angela, are the Funeral Service has learned how to respond to methodically through the various decisions that team behind a the specific and different needs of every you will face and the options available to you. family-owned individual facing one of the toughest times in Sometimes, it’s just good to sit funeral service that their life. This personalised approach includes and talk, and to learn about has been helping the option of home visits and access to a the services and venues families across the friendly voice at the end of the phone around available from someone with Maidstone area for the clock, as well as personal support to clients experience and compassion 40 years. through the bereavement process. before making a decision.” With offices in Bearsted and Barming, Family Michael Lawrence said: "The loss of a loved Funeral Service is a third generation business, one is never easy to cope with, and the added experienced in caring for your needs with stress of making arrangements for the service commitment and understanding. can often bring further emotional upset. With At such a stressful time, they know it’s our experience of making funeral arrangements important to sit and talk to you about every we have learned how to help families have and detail and to assist you in making the often be part of a unique and meaningful service that

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Maidstone January 2020 23 News downsmail.co.uk Purple monarch visits RBLI CROWDS of all ages lined the streets at Royal British Legion Industries’ village in Aylesford to be graced by Her Majesty The Queen. Escorted by three police motor- bikes, the monarch arrived in a ma- roon Bentley outside Appleton Lodge, the military charity’s new luxury care facility for veterans and their families. Wearing purple, and carrying a small black handbag, she stepped out of the car to rapturous cheers from onlookers. Amongst the hundreds of school pupils and locals watching was 101-year-old Dr Anne Bennett, of Gavin Astor House. Wrapped up warm in a blanket on a chilly morning, she said she hoped Her Majesty “wouldn’t mind” her wearing a crown of her own. The Queen entered the care home and met 99-year-old WWII veteran John Riggs, the first resident to move into the facility, as well as 93-year-old Irene Mount. As traffic in Aylesford on the surrounding roads was brought to a complete halt, she was quickly whisked over to the charity’s other vision for the project. from the charity’s chief executive the past 100 years. Today is a mo- site, home to its flagship £22m Before departing, she also threw Brigadier Steve Sherry and the ment of celebration, but also a time Centenary Village. the first soil into the ground at the Queen herself. The capsule is to be of reflection on the sacrifices the There she was greeted with a tra- site of a time capsule, which con- opened in another century’s time, Armed Forces make in times of ditional Fijian welcome by John tains stories of veterans and their in 2119. need. I send my warmest best Ahben, who has worked on the families living in RBLI’s existing The Queen’s letter said: “I wish wishes to RBLI and all who sup- gold medal-winning Chelsea Gar- village, a commemorative coin to congratulate Royal British Le- port them.” den which some of the apartments marking the occasion and a hand- gion Industries on their centenary, Reporting: Tom Pyman overlook, before being told of the written letter for future residents and their support of veterans over Pictures: Andy Jones Her Majesty the Queen meets staff, residents and veterans on her recent visit to RBLI sites in Aylesford

24 Maidstone January 2020 News downsmail.co.uk Purple monarch visits RBLI CROWDS of all ages lined the streets at Royal British Legion Industries’ village in Aylesford to THE BEST PLACE be graced by Her Majesty The Queen. Escorted by three police motor- bikes, the monarch arrived in a ma- roon Bentley outside Appleton FOR TYRES IS Lodge, the military charity’s new luxury care facility for veterans and their families. WHILE YOU Wearing purple, and carrying a small black handbag, she stepped NOW OPEN! out of the car to rapturous cheers WAIT SERVICE from onlookers. Amongst the hundreds of school EXHAUSTS pupils and locals watching was TYRES FULL OR PART SYSTEM 101-year-old Dr Anne Bennett, of Gavin Astor House. Wrapped up warm in a blanket on a chilly WHEELS BRAKES morning, she said she hoped Her QUALITY ASSURED Majesty “wouldn’t mind” her BATTERIES wearing a crown of her own. WHEEL TRACKING The Queen entered the care home and met 99-year-old WWII EXHAUSTS FULLY COMPUTERISED WITH PRINT OUT veteran John Riggs, the first resi- BEFORE AND AFTER ADJUSTMENT dent to move into the facility, as well as 93-year-old Irene Mount. BRAKES PUNCTURE REPAIR As traffic in Aylesford on the surrounding roads was brought to a complete halt, she was quickly whisked over to the charity’s other vision for the project. from the charity’s chief executive the past 100 years. Today is a mo- site, home to its flagship £22m Before departing, she also threw Brigadier Steve Sherry and the ment of celebration, but also a time Centenary Village. the first soil into the ground at the Queen herself. The capsule is to be of reflection on the sacrifices the There she was greeted with a tra- site of a time capsule, which con- opened in another century’s time, Armed Forces make in times of ditional Fijian welcome by John tains stories of veterans and their in 2119. need. I send my warmest best Ahben, who has worked on the families living in RBLI’s existing The Queen’s letter said: “I wish wishes to RBLI and all who sup- gold medal-winning Chelsea Gar- village, a commemorative coin to congratulate Royal British Le- port them.” den which some of the apartments marking the occasion and a hand- gion Industries on their centenary, Reporting: Tom Pyman overlook, before being told of the written letter for future residents and their support of veterans over Pictures: Andy Jones Her Majesty the Queen meets staff, residents and veterans on her recent visit to RBLI sites in Aylesford CALL NOW FOR MORE DETAILS 01622 41 41 41

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Maidstone January 2020 25 News downsmail.co.uk Tiny Tots Nursery School Coﬀee schemeEst.1969 • OFSTED Inspected A COFFEE shop in theT centreel: 7 of3 6270 / 630001 the county town has introduced a Figures reveal huge Memorial Hall, Manor Rise, Bearsted ME14 4DB scheme to provide a hot drink for those who may Weekdaynot be able Mornings to af- fordSCHOOL it. Puddings in Week Street broughtHOURS in the idea9.15 where to 3.30 a cus- for childrenleap 2 to 5 years of agein ﬂytipping tomer can buy a beverage for someonealso Teeny less fortunate Tinywhile mak- TotsFLYTIPPING has gone up by reality of the situation, as many ing their own purchase. 57% in the borough – massively fly-tipping incidents take place on It A bcan very be successful later claimed parent by and a childhigher group. than the national average. privately owned land. homeless personGrandparents familiar welcome to the too!Government figures show ille- “They also don’t show the huge shop’sWednesday staff. Cafe afternoon owner Marta 1.30pm gal - 3.30pm dumping in the Maidstone emotional and financial cost. It Obuchowiczfor children (41) hopes0 to 2 the years. scheme (Term area time is only) among the worst in the costs on average £1,000 to clean will restore community spirit. country. up each incident. With many The national average rise was rural businesses suffering multi- 8% and around 9% in Kent, ac- ple incidents, it can quickly affect 5G is coming cording to Defra. the bottom line dramatically.” MAIDSTONE is one of the first In Maidstone during 2018/19, Tory borough councillor Gill towns in the country to be able to there were 1,634 incidents re- Fort (pictured), who represents get 5G. ported on01622 public land, compared the Leeds and Kingswood areas, EE was the first to launch 5G in with 1,041 in 2017/18 – a rise of has long campaigned for tougher the UK in May and has been 57%, the 850329biggest in the county. erage. There were 507 incidents in action against flytippers. building its network on a daily The true figures will be even 2017/18, rising to 585 in 2018/19. She said: “The trouble is that basis. Neil Aitken, BT Group re- higher, as not all incidents are re- The Country Land and Busi- the borough council will not en- gionalR.A.D lead Ballet for the South East, ported,Autumn and these Term statistics ex- ness Association (CLA) says the force the powers they have. said: “It’s great to see Maidstone clude private land. figures act as a barometer and “There is a hotspot on my patch amongstI.S.T.D. the Tapfirst locations& Modern in the startsThe responsibility 9th September for dealing show that, after a static year in in Burberry Lane where a local UK3 yearsto welcome to senior 5G. The levelnew tech- with flytipping is with Maidstone 2018, the crime has returned to a man was recently convicted of nology will enable a faster, more BoroughMore Council, than led a by the Lib- long-term upward trend. flytipping after covert cameras reliableStreet mobileDance connection for eral Democrats.ballet school Commenting on the figures, were used. both consumers and businesses in In nearby Tonbridge and CLA South East Regional Director “Since the publicity in the local

Future the area and is set to play a pivotal Malling borough, the increase is Michael ValenziaSchools said: “These press, the problem has dropped www.lenhamballetschool.co.uk Trust role in our lives.” 15%, almost twice the national av- statistics do not fully reflect the away significantly. It works.” 10 % Excel Yachting DISCOUNT IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE with Excel Yatching ROYAL CINQUE PORTS YACHT CLUB DOVER when booking with this advertisement

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2426 Maidstone Maidstone East January October 2020 2017 downsmail.co.uk News ‘Get kids protected against ﬂu’ PARENTS in Kent are being urged by the Government’s health advisor to get their youngsters vaccinated against flu.

The advice follows delays in de- livering this year’s immunisation WHO IS ELIGIBLE? programme. This year, for the first time, all This year, the flu vaccine is avail- primary school children, as well able to: as two- and three-year-olds, are l All children aged two and being offered the nasal spray by three years, provided they were the NHS. However, the vaccina- aged two or three on August 31, tion programme has had to be 2019, via their GP practice; temporarily halted while the l All children in primary schools, manufacturer works to replenish aged four to 10, via the school; stocks. l All other children with a health Public Health England says the condition that puts them at vaccination programme is again greater risk from flu. underway, and parents should ensure two- and three-year-olds Children are ‘super spreaders’, and primary school children are and the vaccination not only pro- vaccinated against flu. tects children, but also the more Kent’s Public Health consultant vulnerable members of the com- Dr John Rodriguez says if your asthma or diabetes should visit tentially deadly illness to prevent munity from a potentially horri- child’s primary school flu pro- their GP if their school session has it spreading. ble illness.” gramme has been cancelled, it been delayed, to ensure they are Dr Rodriguez adds: “The flu The child-friendly nasal spray will be rescheduled. protected early.” season is already under way and involves a squirt of the vaccine He added: “Children with ex- The NHS hopes to immunise it is a serious illness that can be into each nostril, making admin- isting health conditions like 50% of children against the po- deadly for the most vulnerable. istration quick and easy. Theft warning Advice after dryer fire Arrest after to motorists FIREFIGHTERS were called to an like to remind the public of some rape report outbuilding fire in Maidstone. vital home safety tips. We advise MOTORISTS are being advised to A MAN was arrested following A tumble dryer had caught against leaving dishwashers, tum- take steps to protect their vehicles the alleged rape of a teenage girl following a spate of catalytic con- light in Hazel Avenue and two ble dryers and washing machines fire engines were sent to the running overnight or whilst you in Maidstone. verter thefts across Kent. The incident reportedly hap- Since August 2019, there have scene. are out, in case they overheat or Crews found a small blaze in develop a fault. pened in Brenchley Gardens be- been 173 reported thefts or at- tween 2am and 3.10am on tempted thefts in the county. the building, which was attached “Remember to also remove to a domestic property, at 8.10am tumble-dryer fluff and lint after November 10. Recent examples include thefts The victim, who was in her from vehicles in Hermitage Lane in on November 19 and spent 20 every load of dried clothes, and to minutes at the property. register household appliances to late teens, was walking through Maidstone, Railway Street in the park with a man when he is Chatham, and Littlebourne Road A fire service statement said: ensure they are safe to use. reported to have raped her. in Canterbury. “Firefighters used hose reel jets to “Finally, ensure you have at Detective Inspector Darren On Tuesday, November 5, a 22- tackle the blaze, which is believed least one working smoke alarm Reynolds said: “The suspect and year-old man from east London to have started accidentally due to on each level of your home, so victim were not known to each was arrested on suspicion of steal- a fault with a tumble dryer. No that in the event of a fire you and other, but had spoken during ing catalytic converters from vic- casualties were reported. your family have time to get out tims across Kent and was released Following the fire, crews would safely.” the evening in a bar in Week on bail pending further enquiries. Street.” Detective Superintendent Mark A spokesman for Kent Police Weller, of Kent Police, issued the said: “On Friday, November 15, following advice to motorists: Group walking the world a 24-year-old man from Ton- l Contact your car manufacturer MAIDSTONE Ramblers have clocked up 28,437 miles in the past bridge was arrested on suspicion as some sell clamps and security year – the equivalent to the circumference of the earth. of rape. He has been released cages that make catalytic convert- A spokesman said: “Although it is not a competition, a record from custody, but remains ers more difficult to steal; is kept of those attending every walk. The top 20 walkers all man- under investigation.” l Park your vehicle in a garage aged over 400 miles each. Five of them completed more than 500 Anyone with information con- whenever possible; miles and the top three in excess of 600 miles.” cerning the incident is urged to l If you do not have a garage then The group meets weekly, and walks vary in length and diffi- call Kent Police on 01622 604 100, park in a busy, well-lit area; culty from three to 12 miles. For details of future walks, includ- quoting crime reference l Consider installing good quality ing the Winter Walks Festival, please go to the group’s website at 46/215787/19. CCTV cameras; www.maidstoneramblers.org. Or contact the charity l Security-mark and register the The group will celebrate its 40th anniversary next spring and Crimestoppers, anonymously, converter so that if it is stolen and will shortly be announcing details of a photographic competi- by calling 0800 555111 or com- recovered, it can be returned to tion which current and past members will be able to enter. pleting the online form at you. www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

Maidstone January 2020 27 News downsmail.co.uk Delays rising DELAYS of between 30 and 60 minutes in ambulances handing Stones up for sale in over patients to Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals rose to 504 in September (13.9%). This is 60% higher than the same period last year. The percentage hunt for new backing for the full year is 12.5% and 1.3% had to wait for more than an hour. THE owners of Maidstone United The problem has been a key FC have put the club up for sale. focus for the last 12 months and Owners Terry Casey and Oliver monthly meetings are proposed Ash, who have been in charge for a involving the hospital trust, the decade, are seeking new investors. ambulance service and the NHS But they have stressed they are West Kent Clinical Commission- prepared to wait to ensure the ing Group. handover will mean the club will not “slip into the wrong hands”. They have invested more than Children’s steps £5.2m to take the Stones out of fi- intentions of any new investor are Town End could be totally trans- NEW steps are being taken to safe- nancial difficulties and built the acceptable and that the interests of formed with a stand that will in- guard the welfare of local children 4,200 capacity Gallagher Stadium. the club and its supporters are fully clude changing rooms, hospitality at risk. A statement by the Stones said protected for the future. We have lounges and refreshment facilities. The Local Safeguarding Children the duo, who took over the failing not spent nine years of our lives “The three seasons spent in The Boards are being replaced by 'safe- club in 2010, could sell some or all working hard for the good of the National League showed us the dif- guarding partners' made up of of their shareholding. club only to see it slip into the ficulty of sustaining the club at this chief officers of police, local author- Mr Ash said: “We have limited wrong hands.” level, let alone progressing to the ities (Maidstone Council locally) capital left, with which to take the Maidstone United is now a EFL. This is the right time for Oliver and NHS West Kent Kent Clinical club sustainably to the next level. broad-based community football and I to explore opportunities for Commissioning Group. Terry and I are prepared to consider and social club, serving the local new investors to come in.” Government now requires 'a staying in charge with a new part- area. It is a self-financing opera- The Stones were knocked out of culture if listening and engaging in ner or to consider passing on con- tion.Mr Casey said: “We would like the FA Cup’s second round on De- dialogue with children and taking trol of the club to new owners. to bring in new partners to invest in cember 1 after being beaten by account of their wishes and feel- “In either case we will have to be the development of the stadium. Blackpool FC 3-1 away from home ings.' assured that the stature, means and “With the right backing, the despite taking an early lead.

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28 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk News Home pledge New blow to campaign A PROVIDER of social housing in Maidstone says it will provide 263 new houses by March 2021. Golding Homes joined the national campaign to “fix the housing for village bypass plan crisis, for good” by providing affordable accommodation. BELEAGUERED villagers pray- local MPs all backed the idea. A spokesman said 163 homes ing for a relief road to ease traffic There appears to be little appetitie will be delivered in Maidstone Bor- pressures on south Maidstone’s for a relief road amongst the man- ough by the end of this financial villages have suffered a setback. agement and current political lead- year (March 2020) and a further Kent County Council’s long- ership of MBC. Cllr Cooke added: 100 in the next financial year." awaited feasibility studies suggest “There is an increasing sense of in- a by-pass linking Leeds and Lang- justice being felt by members of the ley would not pass the cost/benefit public.” Rugby appeal test threshold. Even with the ex- Asked if a relief road could be in- ENGLAND may have lost the pected growth in traffic due to cluded in the Local Plan review, Rugby world cup, but the com- house-building, it might not de- chairman of MBC’s planning com- petion has inspired a fresh appeal for liver wider benefits to other committee Cllr Clive English said: “It players from the Weavering War- munities. depends if KCC has done its riors RFC. Relief road campaigner Cllr ington Street if an HGV weight re- preparatory work. If it has, we can Training is from 7pm on Thursday Gary Cooke says Maidstone Bor- striction was imposed there, he said. put it in – but that’s the easy part!” nights at The Pavilion, in Bicknor ough Council, controlled by the Vehicles which once used the B2163 The council is committed to Road, Maidstone. Liberal Democrats, must seize the Leeds to Langley cut-through from 17,600 homes in the Local Plan and opportunity to include a bypass in the A20 to A274 now head for sin- up to 10,500 more in its review. So the Local Plan review, currently in gle-track back roads through far, only 6,400 have been delivered. Rotary cash its preparatory stages. Broomfield, Kingswood, Cheg- MBC says “modal shift”, which ROTARY Club of Maidstone KCC Conservative Cllr Cooke worth, Langley, Otham and means encouraging people to helped raise about £21,000 for the added: “I believe there’s support Downswood, often causing havoc. walk, cycle or take buses, will help local British Legion Poppy appeal for a relief road at MBC across all Two years ago, when Cllr Cooke to mitigate the tens of thousands of by distributing and collections from the parties, but we need MBC to held a public meeting to demon- extra cars on the roads. But Lib schools, shops, businesses, clubs, grasp the opportunity and support strate support for a relief road link- Dem leader Cllr Martin Cox has al- GP surgeries and volunteer collec- it in the review of the Local Plan.” ing the A274 and the A20, the MBC ready admitted he is “not 100% tors. Bus company Arriva used its The bypass could alleviate Will- leadership, KCC leader and the two sure” modal shift will work. machines to count the cash.

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Maidstone January 2020 29 News downsmail.co.uk Thief took cars from driveways ‘Buy a real local tree to A SERIAL burglar who stole cars from drives in Maidstone has been sent to a young offenders’ prison. In 2018, Kyle Ainsley (20) com- boost rural businesses’ mitted a string of offences, target- ing homes in our area. AN INFLUENTIAL landowners’ bought at the farms where they A court heard how in the early body has called on the public to were grown. hours of August 23, residents at a buy locally-grown Christmas Rob Schroeder, of Kingswood property in East Farleigh, were dis- trees this festive season to support Christmas Trees in Kingswood turbed by a car engine running. rural businesses and help the en- and a CLA member, is doing a They saw Ainsley driving off vironment. brisk trade at his farm, but has had with their Audi A3. The CLA (South East) says to open a shop, cafe, hire reindeer, Two days later, he stole a car in growers spend all year tending and a Father Christmas to make Strood, and a VW Tiguan was their product for a short selling pe- the business thrive. stolen from another property after riod. Challenging weather condi- He said: “It’s a tough business, a door was forced open with a tions in 2019 have made that work very weather dependent and a screwdriver and the keys taken. even harder, so that the trees are in short time span to sell your goods. Ainsley, of Dagenham, was ar- perfect health for harvesting. “We’ve just put in new toilets rested in Essex in September. Regional Director Michael and a whole, new building onsite, At Maidstone Crown Court, he Valenzia said: “Buying a locally which is an investment. But it’s admitted two counts of burglary, grown tree means that it may only only one of several things I do.” two counts of theft and a charge of have been cut a short time before A recent report published by attempted burglary. Six offences arriving at the retailer, reducing Grown in Britain highlighted a risk will lie on file. On Monday De- the likelihood of needle drop. that imported Christmas trees cember 2, he was sentenced to 18 “Buying local contributes to a vi- regular visitors to farm shops and could allow tree pests and diseases months imprisonment. brant rural economy. There is a farmers’ markets. These businesses to enter the UK. Detective Constable Dan Bister wide variety of suppliers in our provide jobs, goods and services Grown in Britain chief executive said: “I only hope this sentence will area, from fruit and vegetable for local communities, attract Dougal Driver said: “Buying a real at least cause him to understand growers to award-winning tourism and boost our economy.” Christmas tree is a sustainable the impact burglary offences have sparkling wine producers. There is also virtually no carbon choice, which also supports the on victims.” “Many people will already be footprint when the trees are rural economy. ”

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30 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk Remembrance Day | News We will remember them THOUSANDS of Maidstone residents from across the borough turned out for Remembrance Sunday at the War Memorial in the town centre on November 10. It was as big a crowd as many could remember, a poignant statement of the significance of the day and the place. For a town which offered so many of its young sons in the first great conflict and witnessed the Battle of Britain in the skies directly above, Maidstone recog- nises its place in history. In the 30 minutes before the start the service at The Broadway, people streamed down the High Street, across the bridge; emerged from Rocky Hill, Tonbridge Road and side streets all around. They gathered around the steps and railings at the shopping centre, boys perched on walls and ledges, while others strained for a view from the pavements. A Salvation Army trumpeter on proceedings, it is impossible to sounded the Last Post faultlessly, know, but observers thought the before a two-minute silence was turnout matched last year’s cente- impeccably observed, save for the nary service and perhaps ex- occasional cough, cry of a child or ceeded it. a gull squawking in the distance. And as the service personnel of The War Memorial was, until a all ages and ranks made their way few days before, threatened with back to be saluted at the town relocation in a council-led bid to hall, they did so to genuine and build a large block of flats. heartfelt applause. Whether that had any bearing Simon Finlay

Maidstone January 2020 31 News downsmail.co.uk Therapy plan THE Kenward Trust in Yalding hopes Co-op customers will help Cabbie jumped lights support the charity. It is hoping to build two poly tunnels on site so that residents and volunteers can use gardening as a therapy and to grow plants, on his way to pick-up fruit and vegetables for lunches at the centre or for sale in the char- A CAB driver “raced” across a level crossing near Maidstone on his ity’s shop at Kenward Place. The trust’s Katie Darvell said: way to pick up a customer, a court heard. “We really hope people visit the Nissan Saidzadah (25), of St An- Defending himself, Saidzadah website and choose to support us drew’s Road, Maidstone, over- tearfully told magistrates: “The at a time when funds for commu- took the car in front of him in an car in front of me just kept stop- nity groups and charitable organ- attempt to beat the barriers, de- ping and without thinking I just isations are becoming more spite them flashing red for seven went for it. I did not see the barri- difficult to access.” seconds. ers coming down and I’m just re- To donate to the trust from the The court heard the defendant ally sorry. I was going to a job in Co-op’s Local Community Fund was on his way to pick up a pas- Loose Road to take them to visit coop.co.uk/membership. senger for a journey to Gatwick Gatwick. airport. “I don’t know why I did it, the Prosecuting, James Nichols told car in front just kept indicating Home fire Maidstone Magistrates Court: and stopping so I cut in front.” FIREFIGHTERS tackled a large “Mr Saidzadah was seen ap- Chairman of the bench, Paul blaze at a mobile home near proaching the level crossing on English said: “We’ve listened to Maidstone on November 30. Farleigh Bridge at approximately what you have to say. It’s a relief The incident happened in the 5pm on Wednesday, July 3. that no passengers were in the car early hours at Kingswood, an “The lights on the barriers were when you raced through. It seems area with a large number of farm flashing red, when the defendant fied. The car was identified as a you were offered a fixed penalty workers. overtook the car at the front of the taxi for Express Cabs and the charge which still stands.” Two dogs were rescued from queue in an attempt to drive driver was traced back to Mr Saidzadah pleaded guilty to the property by police officers through. Saidzadah.” driving without due care and at- and taken to emergency vets. “It was later discovered the The court heard Saidzadah al- tention and was fined £100. He Nearby Kingswood Christmas lights had been flashing for seven ready had three points on his li- also received three penalty points Trees was unaffected and carried seconds and the police were noti- cence for speeding offences. on his licence. on trading as usual. A Kent Fire and Rescue Service statement said: "Firefighters Defendant bit wearing breathing apparatus have dealt with a fire in a large police officer mobile home in Kingswood near A FORMER secondary school Maidstone. caterer bit a police officer sent to "Crews tackled the blaze using help her after she made an emer- a high-pressure hose reel jet, but gency call claiming she was going unfortunately the property was to kill herself. not able to be saved. A district judge told Joanna “There are no reports of any in- Stansall (30), of Quarry Road, juries and the cause has not been Maidstone, that if she had broken established." the officer’s skin she would have It started at 3.50am and fire gone to prison. crews were on the scene for more The court heard the mother of than two hours. two used cocaine daily. Prosecuting, Debbie Jones told Maidstone Magistrates Court: Fiesta stolen Heritage wrapped up “On July 28, the defendant was A RESTORED Ford Fiesta was THE first of a series of new decora- Ilsa Butler, manager of the One standing on a footpath next to the stolen in Maidstone earlier last tive hoardings has gone up in Maid- Maidstone Business Improvement River Medway at about 6am. She month. stone High Street as part of an District, said: “We’re looking at ways told police she was going to kill The vehicle was stolen between initiative to make the area more at- of disguising empty units and build- herself. When officers arrived, 8pm and 10pm on November 1 tractive to visitors. ing works that can become an eye- Miss Stansall pushed the officer in from a supermarket carpark in St. The building “wrap” at 98 High sore. For 98 High Street, we wanted the chest and bit her right arm.” Saviours Road. Street is hiding renovation work to produce an eye-catching display Defending, John Roberts said being carried out at the grade II that is sensitive to the building’s his- Inspector Mark Hedges of Stansall suffered from bipolar and property. torical status.” Maidstone’s Community Safety emotional personality disorder. One Maidstone came up with the Joe Brocklehurst (pictured), Geo- Unit said: "The owner of this vehi- Judge Paul Goldpsring said: idea and involved the expertise of Media’s lead graphic designer on “Police officers do not deserve to cle, which was registered in 1983, companies in the town, including the project, said: “This project has be assaulted when they were spent a lot of time and money top design house GeoMedia, at the an important message about the called to help you.” restoring it and we would like to Royal Star Arcade, which came up history and heritage of Maidstone Stansall admitted to assaulting hear from anybody who has in- with the hoarding design for the town centre, so we are very pleased an emergency worker and was formation that may help our in- 650-year-old building. to be able to support the project.” vestigation." due to be sentenced later.

32 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk

Tovil Parish Councils Elections Cllr Paul Wooding was elected as chairman and Cllr Gary Butler was Victory in blue fencing battle elected as vice chairman. BUILDERS constructing two new Maidstone KALC After a presentation by Terry schools have bowed to public pressure to Martin, Clive Powell and Geraldine Brown change “electric blue” fencing. from the Kent Association of Local Residents were angry when developers put Councils, it was agreed to rejoin the group. up the barrier along the boundaries of the It was later decided that the funds for controversial schools’ site near junction 7 of subscription would come from the Burial the M20. Ground renovation budget. Councillors branded the move “a slap in Skyguard The clerk discovered that the the face” for those living nearby, who have Skyguard system which had been bought watched in despair as the Popes Field nature to safeguard staﬀ working on their own, reserve was bulldozed by the Department for had been mis-sold, and had therefore Education as part of the project. ended the contract. Alternative provisions Residents called for the 8ft mesh fencing would be investigated. along Bearsted Road, Boxley, to be repainted tinues to defy the wishes of local people.” Stocktake Cllr A Hogg asked if a in a low key colour, in line with fences used at Downs Mail understands that schools usu- stocktake of the shed had been done. The other schools. ally have permitted development rights sur- clerk advised that this had not been Boxley borough and parish councillor rounding fencing, which means they do not carried out. Cllrs Wooding and Jess Wendy Hinder said: “What’s happened here require planning permission. In this case, volunteered to do this. is tragic. We’ve lost a designated conserva- they agreed to replace blue fencing with Cabin break-in Cllr A Hogg asked about tion site forever to a development that con- green. the tools stolen in the break-in at the Valley Conservation Society cabin. The repair. The clerk would bring the quote to YMCA considering buying a strip of land chairman asked if the pitchforks and the council once it had been submitted. in front of the community centre to save it waders had been accounted for. The clerk Newsletter It was agreed to put out a from development. Cllr Hogg said she had was to follow this up. Christmas edition where the council been asked to talk to the YMCA about the Resignation Correspondence from the would ask the public whether they wished parish council helping with the purchase previous chairman resigning his to receive a newsletter by mail or by email, cost. The meeting heard the YMCA was in chairmanship and his seat on the council and whether the newsletter should discussion with the sellers. The chairman was noted. continue. said he would like to come to a meeting. Pre-school A report on the success of the IT tenders Cllr A Hogg asked if IT tenders Polling cards Cllr A Hogg tried to put YMCA pre-school was received and noted. would be sent out. The clerk said this has polling cards back on the agenda before Neighbourhood plan An update on the not been a top priority but would be the upcoming election. plan was received and noted. The clerk investigated. Noticeboard Cllr Jess said the Perspex on was asked to give a full breakdown on Directory Cllr A Hogg asked for a the noticeboard had become so opaque the how the money had been spent. This was directory for councillors to contact other notices were unreadable. A member of the later provided. councillors. It was explained that the public suggested a solution used on Railway sleeper It was agreed to approach council would look into this or another headlights to make the notices more clear. Pearsons for a solution to the problem of communication method. It was noted that there was a hole in the cars hitting the railway sleeper, and the YMCA land Cllr A Hogg spoke about the noticeboard on Millstock Terrace.

SOMEBODY smashed a window of a Crime reports vehicle parked in Hildenborough Crescent, Allington. They do not appear to have Neighbourhood Watch taken anything. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A vehicle was keyed in Carpenters Close, Barming. A vehicle parked in Coral Park was Gatland Lane, Fant. vehicle in Sandling Road. keyed. A man stole a pair of trainers from Three people smashed the windscreen, A group of young people smashed the outside a house in School Lane, Shepway. passenger side window and also slashed a rear passenger side window of a Ford Thieves broke into a vehicle and took tyre of a VW Transporter van parked in property from it in Terminus Road, . . Mondeo parked in Wheeler Street. Fant Downs Close Somebody broke into a house in High A back gate was forced open causing An orange Honda CBR125 motorbike, Street. A shopping trolley, bank cards and damage to the frame in Hillary Road. GY12*** was stolen from a garden in cash were stolen. Somebody smashed off the wing mirror Littlebourne Road. A stone was thrown at a window of a of a vehicle parked in Dickens Road. A jet washer and mountain bikes were house breaking the exterior double-glazed A white Land Rover registration J394 *** stolen from a garden in Bedgebury Close. panel in Marion Crescent, Shepway. was stolen from an underground car park Thieves broke into a Peugeot 208 parked An object was thrown at a window in Granville Road. in Garrington Close. They ripped out the smashing the pane in Courtenay Road. A motorbike parked in Peel Street was electrics and centre console and stole the Another property in the same road also damaged. The steering lock was broken, gearbox and spare wheel. had a window smashed. possibly in an attempt to steal the vehicle. A vehicle was broken into in The rear window of a vehicle parked in A communal door to a block of flats was Sittingbourne Road. Lower Stone Street was smashed. smashed in Wallis Avenue, Park Wood. A vehicle was broken into and tools were Thieves stole the catalytic converter from Somebody kicked the front door of a stolen in Farleigh Lane, Fant a Honda Jazz parked in King Street. block of flats, with the intent to break A vehicle was keyed whilst parked in a A bike was stolen in Busbridge Road, down a further door in Northumberland garage in Darwin Avenue, Park Wood. Loose. Road, Shepway. No further access was Somebody broke into a house and Somebody attempted to get into a vehicle gained. performed a messy search in Reginald parked in Northumberland Road, Three young people damaged a council Road, Fant. Shepway while the owner was asleep bin in Church Street. Somebody smashed the glass of a sliding inside. The outer glass of a double-glazed door in Beaufort Walk, Park Wood. Damage was caused to a vehicle by window was smashed at a house in A vehicles window was smashed in someone supergluing notices onto the Willington Green, Shepway.

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D. BODY LTD Double GlazingMaidstone Weald Repairs October 2017 35 Waste Collection COMPUTERS & LocksmithCOMPUTERSNO FIX NO FEE, ServicesNO CALL OUT FEE! Cesspool Emptying Treatment Plants NO FIX NO FEE, NO CALL OUT FEE! Septic Tanks Gulleys & Forecourts • Locks repaired or replaced Access • Computer repairs & upgrades • Laptop repairs & screenAccess replacements Drain Clearing High Pressure Jetting • Letterboxes• Data backup & recovery • Great deals on new pc’s Sludge Removal • Data backup & recovery • Great deals on new pc’s • Over 20Denied years experience •• HingesOver 20 years & window experience handles • Computer repairs & upgrades Domestic & Commercial Call• Broken Ben on glass 01622 & misted 297262 units or 07772 843544 ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSED CARRIERS • LaptopCOMPUTERS repairs & screen replacements • Lost key replacedNO FIX NO & FEE,doors NO opened CALL OUT FEE! Wishing our customers a www.bl-it-solutions.co.uk• Computer PatioCall repairsdoors, Ben & upgrades runners on • Laptop01622 & rollers repairs &297262 screen replacements Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! • Data• backupDoors & recovery that are • Great difficult deals on newto pc’sclose • Over and 20 years lock experience or 07772 843544 Call01622 Ben on 611107 01622 297262 / 07967 or 07772 625 843544 447 01622 631688 With best wishes for 24Hr - 7 Days A Week Prompt & Friendly Service www.bl-it-solutions.co.ukwww.bl-it-solutions.co.uk AAA D.BODY www.dbody.co.uk The Paddock, Detiling Hill, Maidstone, Kent Christmas & the New Year MALCOLM MaidstoneROBERTS January 2020 35 Over 25 years’ experience of maintaining people’s homes. A friendly, reliable service. Painting & decorating, Wall Papering, Tiling and all aspects of DIY. Wishing all our customers Wishing our customers a Merry Christmas a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! CALL MALCOLM - FOR A FREE QUOTATION ON 01634 308067 Mob: 07788 142576

Kent & Sussex Drives allcars chart sutton Wishing our customers a Motorcycle Plus General Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Car Servicing MOT’s £25 and Repairs Specialists in Block Paving, Red or black tarmac. CLASSIC BIKES WELCOME Hot tar chippings. Pea Shingle. Fencing, turfing and brickwork. Free Estimates. All new work guaranteed for 10 years. Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas City & Guilds qualified Tel: 01622 809105 / 01580 891668 01622 844579 Mobile: 07789 360748 or visit the website www.allcarschartsutton.co.uk Chart Corner, Chart Sutton, Maidstone ME17 3SB www.kentandsussexdrives.com

34 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk

Obituaries Harry Garrett getting details of the relationship between Amanda Sidwell of MADM added: Prince Andrew and actress Koo Stark by “Doreen was amazing for her age and a HARRY Garret (101) lived in Sevenoaks placing a glass against a wall and shining light of our shop – she always had but was known locally from years spent overhearing the details as Stark’s mother a fun outlook and was loved by everyone travelling as a millinery seller. held a phone conversation next door. here.” He was also highly David was night editor on The Sun and Doreen, who was widowed in 2000, active with the local wmanager of others. He also became leaves her daughters, grandchildren Sarah, Poppy Appeal, known for a catchphrase he uttered at the Stephen and James (grandchildren David having helped to end of every shift: “Another great day for and Sean pre-deceased her), as well as raise over £60,000 in British journalism.” great-grandchildren Nathan and Jessica. his branch of the local A former Sun colleague said: “David Royal British Legion. was the ultimate professional, a perfect Harry was known gentleman and the best boss you could Tommy Thwaites to those who keep ever hope for.” The death of Tommy Lee Thwaites (25) of track of surviving Maidstone made local headlines. WWII veterans and Tommy was a former pupil of Valley earned the nickname “Lucky Harry” Doreen Stephens Invicta who wanted a because of his near misses with death. DOREEN Stephens (89), of Vinters Park, career in He was rescued during the Dunkirk was known locally from her work entertainment on a evacuation and met Prince Harry as one of volunteering at the Heart of Kent Hospice cruise ship, but also a small band of survivors brought to an charity shop in Starnes Court, Maidstone. battled mental health event in the wake of the 2017 film Doreen spent 16 years as a volunteer in problems after Dunkirk. the shop until it suffering a knife Harry was honoured by Sevenoaks closed, becoming well attack that left a scar Town Council with a tree planting on his known for preparing on his nose. 100th birthday. her own recipe for Tributes by friends cheese on toast. and family have She then became a mentioned the love Patrick Cash volunteer at MADM that surrounded Tommy, but also his PATRICK “Paddy” Cash (31), from (Making a Difference struggles to appreciate that. Headcorn, died after developing a rare to Maidstone) in Tommy died on November 16, taking neurological condition. Church Street, his own life after a four-year struggle with The former bricklayer spent his final serving in the second his problems. months in and out of medical care as shop for three and a Tommy, who was gay and could be doctors looked for an explanation for his half years. Her funeral procession paused outgoing and a “party animal”, is being condition. outside the MADM shop – which supports celebrated with a funeral supported by Patrick was living in Poole, Dorset, the local homeless and disadvantaged – fundraising for “Tommy’s Colourful when he developed the first symptoms of where staff inside raised a mug in her Farewell” – an online campaign has been his illness and subsequently went to honour. organised to gather collections. hospital in London, Maidstone and Born in Gavesend as Doreen Many online tributes have been posted, Canterbury. Wainwright, she met husband Terry and led by Tommy’s cousin Shelbey. On her settled in Dartford, Snodland and Facebook wall Micky Parker wrote: “An Maidstone, before moving to Vinters Park. amazing man.” Michael Juneya added: David Mertens Doreen worked as a school dinner lady “What a good dude, much love to his in Snodland and then in the canteen at FORMER local journalist David Mertens mom and brothers xx.” Safeway’s distribution centre in Aylesford. (73) has died at his home after a battle with Tommy’s death was marked with a cancer. She was mother to Therese and Marie. lantern release from Barming Heath Field Known to colleagues as “Merts,” David Therese said: “My mother enjoyed the on November 30. was a seasoned reporter. His career started company of others and was close and as an £8 a week junior reporter for the loving with her family. Kent Messenger and progressed to “My sister and I saw her every week and Peter Sissons covering major news stories like The she stayed active and involved in life until her final weeks; continuing her FORMER BBC and ITN newsreader Peter Falklands War. Sissons (77) lived in Sevenoaks and died A notable exclusive involved David volunteering work and taking cruises to the point she had been round the world.” on October 1 at Maidstone Hospital. Born in Liverpool, Peter went to school with all the Beatles apart from Ringo Starr, before studying at Oxford. He joined ITN in 1964 as a writer and reporter, and was wounded by gunfire in Biafra in 1968. He began presenting ITN's News at One in 1978, moving to C4 in 1982 where he won three Baftas. Sissons hosted BBC’s Wills | Probate | Powers of attorney | Funeral plans Question Time for four years, and presented the Nine O'Clock News and 10 • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed O'Clock News. He retired from broadcasting in 2009 but DipPFS MSWW continued to make local appearances and was the host of the first ever Kent Press & www.camrasswills.co.uk Broadcast Awards. Sissons, who was 01622 720985 married to Sylvia, had three daughters.

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

36 Maidstone January 2020 Call for the

BDL Gas Services INGSWOOD A family Run Business Email: [email protected] Twitter: @BDLGas

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DOORS, • BirdLocks guardsDoors, fitted, & Windows, cowls Skirting, tted Kitchens small alterations, supplied and All work guaranteed downsmail.co.uk No dustfitted, or mess Loft Conversions, Doors hung, Free01622 estimates 673113 and call out ALLKITCHENS JOBS BIG & & FLOORS. SMALL. Plastering and Tiling downsmail.co.uk Locks fitted, Skirting, small alterations, Anytime:01622 07831 673113 557677 ALL JOBS BIG & SMALL. All Plasteringwork guaranteed. and Tiling Anytime: 07831 557677 MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD Please Call All01622 work guaranteed. 629035 MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD FREEFREE ESTIMATES ESTIMATES ININ AND AND AROUND AROUND THE THE HOME HOME Family business established 21 years BathroomBathroomsBathrooms Installers Family business established 21 years CALLCALL Cliff Cliff on on 0162201622 743648 743648 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 07940 854927 31,Mob: Sheppey 07711 Road, Loose, 291921 Maidstone The complete Bathroom 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone TheMaintenance complete BathroomCompany Maintenance Company Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Chimney Maintenance SupplyNO CALL • OUTInstall FEE •& FREERepair QUOTES H & G Chimney Services Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered Supply • Install • Repair All types of flu • All pots-cowlsH & G Chimneysupplied & fitted Services Call Gary 07738 902116 Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney01622 739439 sweeping 07860 service 318166 • Long [email protected] established • ICS registered 01622 736266 All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted ALL WORK GUARANTEED Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] 01622Builders 736266 Clean Sweep ALL WORK GUARANTEED Brush & vacuum MD Building & Services PAUL BEST Specialists in Wood burners and flues Carpenters• Extensions • Refurbishments BrickworkBuilders • Plastering (All aspects) supplied and fitted • Electrics • Modernisations Clean Sweep O Extensions • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations All work insured O • Driveways, Patios & Repointing General Builder • Fencing & Blockpaving Brush & vacuum O 25 years Experience MD Building & Services All work certified to cover insurance FULLY INSURED Computer Services PAUL BEST Specialists in WoodPest control burners available and flues 01622 891960 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 •e: Extensions [email protected] • Refurbishments • Plastering (All aspects) suppliedCamera and inspections fitted available 07748Brickwork 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk • Electrics • Modernisations O Extensions • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations AllWeddings work insured attended • Driveways, Patios & Repointing O General BuilderBuilding Plans • VMember2rus/ 2w r D oft cti the & R ICS v 2 • Fencing & Blockpaving • PC/ pt p R p 2rs, Upgr d s & I st 22 ti O 25 years Experience All work certified to cover insurance FULLY INSURED • WHETAS2r 2 ss & Br approvedd d Issu s & C figur ti (min 1 hour) • N tw rk2 g Tel: Mark 07841 409061 • Pest… d ucontrolc r O vavailableer 30 Years IT 01622 891960 ConContacttact Mark on... 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38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 HETAS approved Contact Kevin Bovis 01622 844385 07885 651578 [email protected]

38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Driveway Services Garden Services continued

L W Landway Surfacing Ltd. S • Brickwork • ‘’ RESIN’’ BOUND & BONDED DRIVEWAYS, • • Decking/Patios & PATIOS. • Water Features • Fencing Tarmac, Shingle & Block Paving • Driveways • Treework Council Approved Vehicle Crossovers. Experienced • Reliable • Fully Insured Mobile: 07795 471196 / 07799 867524 Tel: 01622 527106 Mob:07788 532926 Email: [email protected] Oﬃce: 01622 734817 Email: [email protected] Website: www.landwaysurfacing.co.uk 100 The Landway Bearsted Maidstone ME14 4LB

Electricians

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Maidstone January 2020 39 Classified downsmail.co.uk

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40 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Roofing Services continued TV, Aerials + Satellites

PAUL MILL Television Ltd • Full Roof Installation • Tiling & Slate Roofing 01622 751000 Est. 1981 • UPVC Fascias & Soffits • Chimney Re pointing or Removal • See the Latest Panasonic OLED, LED, Smart & 4K TVs in Stock • On • Roofing Repairs & Maintenance Demand, BBC IPlayer,ITV HUB & 4oD • Satellite dish Installation, WIFI, Fault Finding. • Freeview & Freesat, Aerial Expert installation • Bespoke www.apolloroofing.co.uk TV Wall mounting installation service • CCTV Installation Specialist 07808 414965 or 01622 853601 Please phone us for free friendly advice today. Call for a free no obligation quote www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk Bower Place Maidstone ME16 8BG Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-12pm We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service

RICHARDS ROOFING & Waste Services BUILDING SERVICES LTD Lead Work and Tiling Specialists New tiled roofs, repairs & replacements Slate and lead roofs & repairs PVCu guttering, fascias & soffits Cladding & bargeboards Repointing & chimney repairs Brickwork and carpentry Plastering and decoration Loft, cellar & garage conversions Design support & advice Qualified plumbers, electricians & heating engineers

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01233 840624 Skip Hire [email protected]

01233 660 099 www.gboxkent.com SKIP HIRE Commercial & Domestic The largest independently owned liquid waste management company in the UK Recycling Services www.mtscleansing.co.uk

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Web Services Book Online Order your skip via secure Skip Hire 24hr online book facility Roll On/Offs 4 Yard Skip £192 inc Vat Road Permits Arranged 6 Yard Skip £228 inc Vat Waste Recycling Facility 8 Yard Skip £264 inc Vat 12 Yard Skip £360 inc Vat

Many more services available. See website for details

Maidstone January 2020 41 Leisure Public Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003 An application has been made by: The Maidstone Distillery Ltd. for the premises: WANTED Unit 5, Market Buildings, Maidstone, ME14 1HP. MODEL RAILWAYS On the date of: 28/11/2019 Any age or condition Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening: Supply of alcohol Richard 07780 681405 Hours: Monday to Saturday: 09:00 to 23:00 Private collector Sundays and Bank Holidays: 10:00 to 23:00 Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing [email protected] Partnership on 01732 227004 Any person wishing to make representation about the application should make them in writing on or before the: 26/12/2019. Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP [email protected] http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing It is an o ence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The maximum ne for which a person is liable on summary of conviction for the Health & Beauty o ence is £5000.

Cartref Homes UK Limited Full Time Support Worker Vacancies

See more vacancies online To be part of our team meeting the needs of adults with learning disabilities living within our supported living service in Maidstone. Visit www.downsmail.co.uk - Ideally applicants will have experience of working with adults with Learning Disabilities and/or mental health issues. However, training community notice board will be provided for suitable candidates. Due to location applicants must be able to drive. We seek staff with positive attitudes, flexibility and good written and 01622 630330 verbal communication. We offer guaranteed contracted hours and competitive pay. To request an application form please contact our head office on 01795 477966 or email your CV to [email protected] Recruitment These posts are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application

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

WE URGENTLY NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS:

• To staff the hospital shop which is stocked with a wide variety of sandwiches,crisps, drinks, toiletries, greetings cards, sweets, chocolate, etc. • To take trolleys (containing sweets, drinks, toiletries, etc.) round the wards. • Staff our busy tea bar. • Sell books in the book room. The League of Friends is a registered charity and all monies raised ensures that it can respond to requests for equipment in the hospital.

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

42 Maidstone January 2020 Come and join our friendly team and share in our success.

Field Sales/Key Senior Journalist/ Account Executive Deputy Editor required

This is a part time position 26 - 32 hours per Mail Publications, publishers of the Downs Mail, week over 4 or 5 days Maidstone and Malling's number one newspaper and its quarterly sister publication, Mid Kent The role will involve: Living, is looking for an experienced, all-round • Handling inbound and making outbound calls senior journalist.

• Developing business from existing clients The role entails all aspects of newspaper work, so a sound knowledge of • Obtaining and growing new business reporting, news gathering, news editing, sub-editing and proof-reading is • Working to achieve revenue targets needed. The successful candidate will also drive content to our expanding daily news website and contribute features into our popular magazine, Mid Kent Living, and have the necessary skills to help manage a small The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a similar role dedicated team and deputise for the Editor. and will: • Have worked to personal sales targets Some evening and weekend working will be required. Local knowledge is • Have a confident and outgoing personality an advantage but not essential. A sense for strong campaigning, • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative community journalism is a must. • Have excellent communication skills You will require the use of your own car and have a full driving license Ideally, the successful candidate will have a full NCTJ qualification or Friendly, flexible, family owned business. equivalent and a minimum of five years’ experience in a news media environment. Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) If you would like a new challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply please send your CV and covering letter, explaining why you To apply contact the Editor, Simon Finlay with your CV and a covering should be considered for this appointment, to: letter outlining why you would be our ideal candidate. Bill Brett, Sales Manager Simon.ﬁ[email protected] [email protected] Tel: 01622 630330 On the Road MOBILE BODY REPAIRS • BUMPER SCUFFS • KEY SCRATCHES • ALLOY REFURB • VANDOLISM DAMAGE TO PAINTWORK • DENTS • MACHINE POLISHING • FULLY GUARANTEED TO MAIN DEALER STANDARD • FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

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Maidstone January 2020 43 On the Road

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44 Maidstone January 2020 On the Road

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Maidstone January 2020 45 downsmail.co.uk Comment Housing – is it time to panic? r MANY magnifying glasses are has been more about mathematics than coming out in Maidstone to check fine common sense. Time for a change. detail of maps for the 334 new land MailMarks The people of Maidstone, whose lives offers to Maidstone Borough Council DENNIS FOWLE President are being seriously impacted in so many for future developments – but they are [email protected] ways by all this development and not needed to capture the broad picture population growth, believe our borough horror of what could be ahead. has more than played its part in The offers are for about 60,000 houses housing demands. It includes some meeting Government demands for but as Maidstone council is looking for powerful reasons why Maidstone’s hugely increased housing. Our rebellion something above 10,000 at this stage targets must be reduced. Watch this grows. most will be rejected early next year. space. But how long before they bounce back This comes at a time when Tonbridge Do you need to see GP? again? and Malling council sees fit to pile huge a SERVICES offered by our doctors’ Residents across the borough have numbers of its new houses in an area surgeries are growing at pace and we all been shocked by many land offers made any sensible person would see as part of must now consider carefully if we really by owners looking for a quick fortune. Maidstone, not Tonbridge. do need to see a GP when we have a It has brought much worry and a lot of It had already selected much land health problem. hard work as opponents are wisely lining Hermitage Lane and Aylesford Bear with increasingly-trained GP completing their strongest-possible for development, much to Maidstone’s receptionists when asked basic objections. anger, and now there is the coup de questions to help assess your needs. A lot of this could have been totally grace. It has given planning permission You may then be offered an avoided if MBC had sifted out many no for about 840 houses on the land appointment with a different qualified hopers straight away. (equivalent to 50 football pitches) east of professional able to meet these needs – In my farming parish of East Farleigh the junction of Hermitage Lane and and probably more quickly than your there are 17 offers, and if the 1,300 or so London Road, stretching almost to busy GP. houses were permitted, it would triple Barming Station in the south and The skills available at surgeries have the population of a Domesday Book Allington in the east. grown enormously and are set to village with precious few services and Maidstone council, many of Tonbridge expand further. All will have a qualified overloaded narrow rural roads. and Malling’s own parishes and MP pharmacist, a physiotherapist and later But the official grapevine is “do not Tracey Crouch all objected – but this is a a paramedic. Shortly, all will also have a panic”, because there are many massive headache Tonbridge is happy social prescribing link worker for powerful arguments against. We cannot to leave with Maidstone. mental and social help. rest until they are formally rejected. I have always seen the borough In many cases your first port of call Pressure is being applied to boundaries of Maidstone and will still be a GP, whose diagnostic Maidstone council by local lobbyists to Tonbridge as ridiculous. No doubt it skills are so significant. fight Government on its massive Don’t ruin county town circumstances. Will there be any more? public in any meaningful way. People feel Freedom of information legislation they are being trampled on. The news I SUPPORT your call to join the protest should mean citizens have the right to filtering through that there is to be a “mass against the way the very important and know why meetings were being held rally” is to be encouraged and everyone sensitive issue of planning is being secretly or why money is spent finding a who cares about this place should be part handled in the borough, and which could “mole” when there are leaks. I did have of it. despoil our county town with housing. one email saying papers get facts wrong. I The executive and political leadership of What lies ahead for the Archbishop’s replied that I had only read one and that Maidstone Borough Council probably Palace and the Carriage Museum or any gets facts right. rather fancy themselves as clever clogs – other historical buildings? I hope the paper will get a people’s wheeling and dealing in big numbers with Your article in the December edition protest to gather momentum, and demand the big boys. says it all. The attitude of Maidstone that some common sense, and sensible Easy to do when it is public money and Borough Council comes across as aloof planning back is the agenda. it isn’t earnt – just taken from the common and didactic. Of course, housing has to be provided herd on pain of imprisonment. To even consider moving the War but it wants to be done with sensitivity There is nothing new in local authorities Memorial from its rightful place to the and in harmony with the town’s buildings. becoming more commercially aware obscurity of the proposed site, was I think the Liberal Democrats, who are particularly as a means of generating the arrogant, insensitive, heartless and shows in charge at Maidstone Borough Council, revenues needed to deliver the services is ignorance of the feelings of their fellow seem aloof and, like their national leader, legally obliged to provide. citizens. think they know best. Government should A few years back, local Government was The Queen’s Own Royal West Kents be for the people by the people. whining incessantly about cuts to funding. were some of the first in in both wars. In Alan Wallace, via email We must congratulate this local authority WWI they lost thousands, and many in for being so prudent as to be able to afford WWII. It is concerning at this time of seeking Spend our cash wisely the lavish spending needed to be a more open government that there has FIRST 5,000 houses in Lenham, then a “master developer” in the modern age. already been one proposed development proposal to knock down the War Let’s hope it all goes well, but the initial for about 5,000 houses at Lenham held in Memorial in the county town to make way signs are not encouraging. secret. for a tower block of flats and now a secret K Kennedy, via email The council doesn’t deign to answer any deal – using the guts of £20m in public request asking why. The Government money – to buy the leasehold of the A blot on the landscape directive states all meetings should strive Lockmeadow complex. H E Bates’ 1958 novel perhaps should be to be open except in defined exceptional None of this has ever been put to the renamed “The Dying Buds of May”.

46 Maidstone January 2020 downsmail.co.uk

The original phrase refers to the opening DLR connection) is already overcrowded out of the town. Comment buds that point towards the warm in the rush hour and additional services The stables contains the joint second best summer season and the may tree which can only be provided with new rolling collection of carriages, after the Royal flowers in spring, but this will, of course, stock. In addition, a new HS1 station, Collection at Buckingham Palace Mews. along with wildlife, all be gone. would create additional traffic on the These would have to be rehoused prior to Why? Because Maidstone Borough narrow roads as commuters would head any redevelopment of the stables. Council’s proposal to allow 5,000 new from Headcorn, Harrietsham and Whatever happens to these buildings, as homes in open countryside is the height of surrounding villages to use the faster, but reported in your newspaper, continuity of overcrowded service. stupidity and shows that democracy is not use must be a priority to prevent them Overall, this is vandalism of the only dead in parliament, but in local falling into disrepair. government as well. countryside. Albert Daniels, President Maidstone If this is allowed to go ahead, it will be This country cannot feed itself and any Historical Society only a few years before Maidstone and destruction of agricultural land means we Ashford become one city blot on the are more reliant on food imports, which Garden of England. the country cannot afford and this, Join Scouts for change This will soon be followed by greater strategically, is a bad move. AS SCOUTS, here in Maidstone, we London spreading into Kent and having The Men of Kent (and women) should promise to help others. We’re the doers and continuous development from the Thames rise up against this tyranny by Maidstone the give-it-a-goers. We’re the change- to the English Channel. Borough Council and stop it in its tracks. makers. We’re not afraid to speak up. This is awful enough in itself but, more M R Ballard, Lenham This month, we’re renewing this promise importantly, it is the infrastructure in with the relaunch of our campaign, A Maidstone and Ashford that is inadequate Millions Hands. NOW and without being in place before Town’s history at stake This is a way for Scouts to improve lives any sod is cut, makes this project lunacy. THE Old Palace, Stables and All Saints’ right here in Maidstone, while developing The proposed new stations and link Church and College represent the finest the skills to succeed. The campaign is about roads will all eliminate more land, and the collection of Medieval buildings in raising awareness across six themes, all cost cannot be recouped unless the Western Europe. chosen by young people themselves. development is even bigger. The setting is complemented by the 19th But it’s about taking action too. On many occasions, the William Harvey century ragstone buildings of All Saints’ From protecting our environment to Hospital has no beds available for A&E School and the adjacent Baptist Churches. ending homelessness, supporting refugees patients and this is not unusual. Our local The Palace itself provides an ideal surgery, in common with many, is unable setting for use as a wedding venue. This and displaced children and promoting to recruit doctors or other staff and there could possibly result in the transfer of the kindness in every community, we’re also are waits for appointments. restaurant, currently on a boat on the renewing our commitment to supporting The A20/M20 is often gridlocked and river, to the Palace. I am led to believe that better mental health for all and although Highways England have spent the internal layout of the building may understanding disability. millions of pounds of public money to preclude alterations necessary to change Tim Peake, Scout ambassador turn the M20 into a smart motorway, it its use to that of a hotel. has solved nothing and created another The building is listed grade I by English car park and a potential death trap Heritage, and they would need to be Respect is vital because of the lack of a hard shoulder. consulted on any proposed alterations to I DO enjoy reading your publications. The railways are no better; Ashford to the interior of the building. However, I was disappointed to hear you Victoria is not fit for purpose. The garden in front of the palace seems call Ann Widdecombe a “bit bonkers”. Twenty years ago, the journey time from to be used as a car park, which detracts I looked up this word in the Oxford Lenham to Victoria, 41 miles, was 1 hour from the setting. There are other car parks 20 minutes. Today, the comparable train nearby. Dictionary and the word means “mad”. takes 1 hour 19 minutes (an average speed The original proposal to divert the Personally, I believe she is no such thing – of 30mph, after the many millions Hayle Road to the east of the Carriage in fact, in the current situation in our Network Rail claim to have spent Museum to create a pedestrian square country, she seems very sane to me. improving the service. However, Victoria between the Palace and the stables has not Please could you bear in mind that is not a destination of choice for materialised. In the 60s land was people, especially those in the the public commuters, it’s the City or Canary Wharf. compulsory purchased in Upper Stone eye, need our respect, whatever their views. HS1 (which serves Canary Wharf with a Street to provide for dual running into and Christine Miller, East Farleigh

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