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

NewsFREE JulyPanto 2019 ahoy! Kate,No. 107,267 dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the to has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. News David has disclosed. VOnic boardar Theas Kentishks f Ladyor were national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy Spice Lounge closes pGodmother),rice o formerf a EastEnderpint Ste- MP’sA POPU LLocalAR Indi aPlann resta bidurant in fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- WEALD vicar the Rev Fiona HELENCoxhe aWhatelyth has fi askednally theclos ed its beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig Haskett is urging villagers to dig governmentdoors after 1to3 haltyea thers o f Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, borough’strading. housing scheme. 44 dStepheneep and Richardsdonate th ande p r Adamice of Bor-a pzoneint a (Uglynd so Sisters)me cris p. s to counter maTheyssive weremai ngreetedtenanc bye b pupilsills. Ju fromst UPlansnlice fornse Drd a Nigelnglers oSouthne o fBoroughher fou Primaryr churc hSchooles cos andt FTHEISH widowERIES ofla wGPe nDrfo Nigelrcem eMinnetnt amembersround £ 6 of6, 0 the00 media.to run The panto twillea mwalks h atheve Grandbeen cracking down lrunsast y efromar. December 1-31. For11 tick- oCanyonn illega forl a ncharity.glers n ear 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. Marden. 5 JasonComm Donovanunity she dated fire THE former Neighbours star brings hisAR showSON ItoST theS t oHazlittrched a shed with Planners’ shock as TheatreBought nexton M May.onchelsea’s 18 CCTV call in a bid fete eqipment inside. 6 Spotlight on scams appeals overturned FROM planting dead rats to smashing roofs, we lift the lid to stop fly-tipping on the doorstep BOROUGH planners have been left reeling after government inspectors scammers. 8 oCALLSverturn fored the nea installationrly half of ofth CCTVeir rul camerasings. to prevent fly-tipping on a Obituaries 26 countryMaidstone road has lo havest 46% beenof the madeting it w byron theg”. local borougha councillor.nd need”, while other planning plaBurberrynning ap Lane,peals l nearevelle Leedsd agai andnst nearby,Planni moreng off thanicer A au yearstin M afteracki ite unlicensedlosses had b wasteeen “r carriers,eally sub butject be-ive Parish Councils 28-29 iBroomfield,t, compared hasto a beenKent targetedaverage byof wastold dumpedcouncillo andrs: “W sete’ onll al fire.so look at lievesviews the on costmino tor d smallevelo firmspmen ofts dis-”. A CCTV camera in bwasteetwee dumpersn 23% an ford 30 years,%. but in re- hoThew churchwe are car a parkppro hasach alsoing seenap- posing“We h ofav constructione a positive lo wastecal pla atn, a” Obituaries Bough ton32 centThe months, figures the h problemave pro hasmpt be-ed manypeals… instances are we ofre illegalally pu dumping.tting to- transferhe said. station“We ha isve proving a posit aiv deter-e atti- Monchelsea needs a tamper- acomenger morewithin acute. the borough’s plan- geButtherit th ise arig problemht evide innce many? Hav rurale we renttude that to isde costinglivery. councilsBut wh more.en we Parishproof co Councilsver after it wa s p34-35ointed ninConstructiong committee waste,, with rubble,Headco hardrn’s areaslet our includingguard dow Langley,n a bit? Or do we chCllroose Fort to re madefuse, in herspec remarkstors are n asot to face a bench instead of the Mcore,artin windows Round p androte householdsting: “We fur-are andneed Kingswood.a better evide Waternce bas Lanee?” in onereco ofgn theisin borough’sg that this closestis the e trans-xcep- ASHpla ydieback area; B hasroo beenmfie ldiscoveredd and in bnitureeing m isa leftde t illegallyo look fo –o oftenls in fr strewnont of BearstedHe said andthe b Pilgrimsorough’s Waycomp haveara- fertion stations to the ru atle.” North Farm, Tun- MonksKings wo Meadowod Paric h C ino uncDetlingil is ; oinur the com middlemunit ofy. the road. alsotively been poo targetedr results recently.might be down bridgeCllr Wells,Round announced said: “We it h willavebe a Hollingbournelooking into a hvillageitchin gfete pos t stall-for “CllrWh Gillat’s Fortthe p said:oint “Everyof us s monthitting toLast other year, autho Maidstonerities havin Boroughg green closedplan th forat i 10s ro weeks.bust… yet appeal in- holderdogs, co-ordinatorfollowing co Jeanncern Duffy abou hast resigned; yellow lines are needed hweere? are Wh havingat’s thetoilets, point o sinksf us ac andtu- Councilbelt or m clearedore Ar 911ea o casesf Out ofsta fly-tip-nding spSheecto added:rs are “Ifcon youstan gotly alongberat theing the number tied to the play- for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 lineour ofs increasingystem. Th fines,ey a theyre a havectual toly ground railings; ally having a committee? What’s Natural Beauty designations. buses through Imperial Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. bekno enforced.cking the w Ao reductionrk of our en infor thece- parish councillors are considering the point of us employing enforce- But he admitted the number of bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings chargement o orffic offeringers.” it free may have “residents only” signs as parking ment officers?” gypsy and traveller appeals dis- Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.” in a lay-by gets worse; litter picks The statistics came to light as torted Maidstone’s wider statistics. However, North Ward’s Cllr the picnic area and rear exit. cland,ounc toil o overseefficials thepled problemged an area.”audit CllrHe s Fortaid t welcomedhat, in term a joints of g initia-ypsy ToAn three-monthlyy Harwood sai litterd the pick “ele onph theant have been organised in Langley. of Aap recentpeal d eventecisio inns Burberryto see ifLane the tiveand t byrav theeller Environment sites, “inspect Agencyors are mile-longin the room stretch” was ofthe road lackthrough of trav- CrimeCrime Reports Report s 3529 gsawover an caravanment’s in burnedspector outs “a whilere get- a andplacin theg si Drivergnifican andt we Vehicleight on s Stan-tatus Leedseller p villagerovision produces in Maids anton averagee. torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32“ blackUntil sackswe ge oft o rubbish.ur act together on VEHICLESOFFENDE haveRS br o beenke in t driveno a po s overt of- goCllrod, Fort,well- a whoppo i alsonted ,serves high q asua al- farmlandfice in M ar inde nLenham,and tried tcausingo steal a parishity, pu b councillor,lic, afford ab saysle g y teachingpsy and damgesafe; a t tora ile crops;r, too ls an an d attempted pressure childrentraveller about sites, socialwe w iresponsibilityll continue to break-inwasher waswere reported taken fr oinm a prop;- a vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted andsho rthet-c hissueange of b litteroth t hine schoolsgypsy awillnd erty in ; lead was stolen help take the issue off the streets. Rd,fro mWeavering the roof o;f fl pumpkinsats in Eas t wereFar- traveller community and the set- stolen from an allotment in She believes with every household leigh; a car trailer was taken in tled community,” he said. . YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivingAs Do wa weeklyns Ma irefusel was collectiongoing to ; tools were stolen from service, there is no excuse for litter press, Maidstone lost another ap- a business in . [email protected] being thrown from vehicles or Comment 46-47 peal… this time relating to Love 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • dumped in the road. Lane in Headcorn. Comment 38-39 Home Alarms supplied andand fittedfitted visitvisit www.amiga.co.ukwww.amiga.co.uk oror callcall 0800008000 199622199622 Supporting the Kent community for over 235 years

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2 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Book now for School celebrates good open air film HEADCORN Primary School’s PTFA is bringing Hollywood to rating at first inspection the village this autumn when it screens Hugh Jackman’s The A PRIMARY school, opened just Greatest Showman. three years ago, has earned out- Head Libby An open air cinema will make standing praise from a govern- Fidock and camp in the Kings Road school’s ment watchdog. grounds on Saturday, September pupils Great leadership and a broad 14. Doors open at 6pm for a range of subjects, including an celebrate 7.15pm start. “impressive understanding of the good Tickets booked in advance are Brexit” among pupils, were among Ofsted £10 for adults or £14 on the door. the positive comments made about rating at Children are £7 but under 6s are Langley Park Primary Academy at Langley free. Tickets are available from its first Ofsted inspection. Park www.billetto.co.uk. Describing the principal Libby Primary Fidock as a strong figurehead with Academy a clear mission, inspector Frances Tennis day Nation said: “She has her finger on proved reading skills and books She added: “Pupils are eager VILLAGERS are being urged to the pulse of the school. She inspires bought for the school’s “under- learners. They pay attention to dust off their racquets and head confidence in parents and staff.” used library” recognised a call their teachers and contribute en- The school in Edmett Way, from parents for more story time. thusiastically in lessons.” for Headcorn Tennis Club’s char- Maidstone, received a good grade The inspector suggested im- Mrs Fidock said: “We have been ity day on Sunday, September 15. for its quality of teaching and pupil provements in the teaching of sci- determined to ensure that high Money raised at the event will outcomes and outstanding marks ence, religious studies and standards are maintained for our be ploughed into free coaching for leadership; the behaviour of geography; higher teacher expec- highly inclusive school since the for members and the community, pupils and nursery provision. tation of more able pupils and very start.” say organisers. The report noted that leaders closer inspection of ’ handwriting. The school, which opened in Events run by Davis Cup and staff were well trained to iden- The inspector concluded that September 2016, is the first new coaches will be targeted at chil- tify concerns about pupils’ welfare. pupils enjoyed coming to school Primary Academy for Leigh Acad- dren, teenagers and adults of The teaching of phonics had im- and attendance was above average. emies Trust. varying abilities. COUNTY COBBLER School Shoe Repairs - Key Cutting Just moved? Need spare keys? We are here to help! DISCOUNTS on multiple key orders COMPETITIVELY priced

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Maidstone Weald July 2019 3 News downsmail.co.uk ‘No plan’ as restaurant shuts A MUCH-loved curry house in Coxheath has shut its doors. The Spice Lounge served its last meal on June 29, after almost 13 years of business. At its height, the restaurant and “I think people are really sad- takeaway – which earned a 4 star dened about the closure because rating on Tripadvisor – served 100 for some it’s the last place in the diners on a Saturday night. In fact, village they can socialise. the building in Heath Road was “There are two main issues here. extended in 2010 to meet demand. The first one is that if the owner Owner Anhar Ali said: “With does not want the business any- the residential developments in more then we cannot force them to Coxheath, the general expectation keep it, but on the other hand, we would be that demand for the have to decide if turning it into a restaurant would remain strong. block of flats is the most appropri- "Unfortunately, in the last two ate outcome for the future.” years, patterns and spending Other options for the future of habits seem to have changed, with the building include using the a general decline in the use of the garage extension as a takeaway restaurant. More so in the first half and selling the actual restaurant to of 2019, use of the restaurant for another business. Another possi- dining in, is very poor. bility is to demolish the building. “There is an overall decline in Anhar Ali closes up the Spice Lounge for the final time Mr Ali added: “Nothing is 100 the restaurant use, with an in- restaurant.” Parfitt-Reid said: “I know the - per cent set in stone, but I have creased demand for takeaway Citing difficult trading condi- lic is extremely disappointed be- been approached by a few organi- service. The Spice Lounge site is tions, Mr Ali said an outstanding cause I have been in there on a sations, including families who too large just to operate a take- planning application to turn the Monday night and it’s been ab- want to run their own restaurant away service. The building has site into a complex of homes for solutely heaving with a buzzing here.” high operating costs, and is not vi- the over 55s is still in the works. atmosphere. The local people re- Final decisions are expected to able any longer to operate as a Borough Councillor Lottie ally enjoy it, tables were full.” be made by the end of July. Purle refuses Cycle shop mole inquiry closes doors VILLAGERS in Headcorn have A BOROUGH councillor has re- said goodbye to Woods the cycle fused to be interviewed as part of shop. an internal investigation into After more than 35 years in media leaks to Downs Mail. business, the store in North Street Liberal Democrat-led Maidstone – which had been served by gen- Borough Council is furious after erations of the same family – is details of a 2,500-5,000 house de- closing due to retirement. velopment plan in Lenham were published following a secret com- Comments about the store’s mittee discussion on it on May 22. helpful staff and memories from Now the authority’s legal bosses those of buying their first bike are arranging interviews with staff there, and, later, for their chil- and elected members present at the dren, were being shared on the final day’s trading. closed session to find the “mole”. Mike Angell congratulates new chairman Ann Allen Conservative Cllr Jonathan Purle Village councillor Martin ( Bridge ward) said: “To be honest, Round said: “This has been a I don’t see this is the most appro- wonderful business that had val- priate way for taxpayers’ money to Ann is new KCC chair ued service in the community. be spent or a good use of the coun- ANN Allen is the new chairman of porate parenting panel and is also Personally, I benefited, and my cil’s time.” Kent County Council. the council’s learning disability bike is better for it. I’ll miss it.” MBC legal chief Patricia Narebor She takes on the role from Cllr champion. With this in mind, she told members an investigation Mike Angell. will be raising money for the Young Calling time would be undertaken “regarding He told Downs Mail: “It has been Lives Foundation, based in Maid- BT HAS refused requests to repair the release of exempt information to my privilege to serve and I will al- stone. the Downs Mail that was... dis- ways be thankful for the opportu- Graham Gibbens will be standing the red phone box at Church cussed at the committee. The inves- nity.” down as cabinet member for Adult Green, says Staplehurst Parish tigation will involve members of Mr Angell raised more than Social Care and Public Health to Council. Instead, the telecoms P&R,visitingmembersandofficers.” £4,500 for the Samaritans during serve as her vice-chairman. The giant is to launch a consultation She later told Downs Mail: “It’s his year in office. adult social care and public health into decommissioning it. an internal operational issue so I Mrs Allen, MBE, – a retired cater- portfolio, which includes residential The parish council says vil- would not like to discuss it with ing officer for Dartford Hospital and and home care and support for peo- lagers keen to send feedback, the Downs Mail at the moment.” a former foster carer – was elected ple with learning disabilities, will be should email BT’s customer serv- Full story, page 22 to KCC in 1997. She chairs the cor- taken on by Clair Bell. ice team at customer.serv.pay- [email protected].

4 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News ‘No plan’ as restaurant shuts A MUCH-loved curry house in Coxheath has shut its doors. The Spice Lounge served its last meal on June 29, after almost 13 years of business. At its height, the restaurant and “I think people are really sad- takeaway – which earned a 4 star dened about the closure because rating on Tripadvisor – served 100 for some it’s the last place in the diners on a Saturday night. In fact, village they can socialise. the building in Heath Road was “There are two main issues here. extended in 2010 to meet demand. The first one is that if the owner Emergency Appointments Owner Anhar Ali said: “With does not want the business any- & Free Parking the residential developments in more then we cannot force them to Coxheath, the general expectation keep it, but on the other hand, we Crackdown on Independent would be that demand for the have to decide if turning it into a restaurant would remain strong. block of flats is the most appropri- Dentistry AFFORDABLE, QUALITY "Unfortunately, in the last two ate outcome for the future.” DENTAL CARE years, patterns and spending Other options for the future of Recently renovated... habits seem to have changed, with the building include using the illegal fishing Nervous Patients a general decline in the use of the garage extension as a takeaway New Patients restaurant. More so in the first half and selling the actual restaurant to RURAL Task Force officers are “Fishing clubs are concerned Call 01622 741817 of 2019, use of the restaurant for another business. Another possi- targeting illegal fishing in Mar- about the destruction of fish stocks Welcome or book online on our website dining in, is very poor. bility is to demolish the building. den as part of a national cam- and the wider range of criminality Anhar Ali closes up the Spice Lounge for the final time paign. that offenders are often linked to. “There is an overall decline in Mr Ali added: “Nothing is 100 What our patients say: Police officers teamed up with “We often get reports of drug the restaurant use, with an in- restaurant.” Parfitt-Reid said: “I know the pub- per cent set in stone, but I have ‘I was put at ease straight away’ creased demand for takeaway Citing difficult trading condi- lic is extremely disappointed be- been approached by a few organi- the Angling Trust and the Envi- and alcohol abuse around the ronment Agency to target poachers lakes, which can present a serious ‘The receptionist, nurse and dentist are always excellent’ service. The Spice Lounge site is tions, Mr Ali said an outstanding cause I have been in there on a sations, including families who ‘Best dentist I’ve had’ too large just to operate a take- planning application to turn the Monday night and it’s been ab- want to run their own restaurant and those who go fishing without a danger given the close proximity to away service. The building has site into a complex of homes for solutely heaving with a buzzing here.” rod licence. very deep waters. high operating costs, and is not vi- the over 55s is still in the works. atmosphere. The local people re- Final decisions are expected to On Sunday, June 9, enforcement “The day’s action formed part of www.orcharddentalmaidstone.co.uk able any longer to operate as a Borough Councillor Lottie ally enjoy it, tables were full.” be made by the end of July. teams visited a number of fisheries our ongoing commitment to tackle around Marden and Paddock the issue of poaching and support 4 Mangravet Avenue, Maidstone, ME15 9BQ Wood. our local fisheries. We will be run- They checked about 150 anglers ning similar enforcement days Purle refuses Cycle shop to make sure they were fishing throughout the coming months.” legally. A total of 16 offences were The action formed part of Oper- mole inquiry closes doors recorded and action was taken ation Traverse, a partnership be- VILLAGERS in Headcorn have against those without a licence. tween police forces and the A BOROUGH councillor has re- said goodbye to Woods the cycle The officers also gave a cannabis Angling Trust to actively target fused to be interviewed as part of shop. warning to a woman who was in those who fish illegally and the an internal investigation into After more than 35 years in possession of the drug. crimes that are often associated media leaks to Downs Mail. business, the store in North Street Liberal Democrat-led Maidstone Sergeant Darren Walshaw of with the offence. – which had been served by gen- Borough Council is furious after ’s Rural Task Force said: Anglers need a licence for erations of the same family – is details of a 2,500-5,000 house de- “Poaching fresh water fish is a salmon, trout, freshwater fish, closing due to retirement. velopment plan in Lenham were worrying crime for rural commu- smelt or eel caught with a rod and published following a secret com- Comments about the store’s nities. Businesses can be devas- line. Children under 13 are exempt, mittee discussion on it on May 22. helpful staff and memories from tated by the effects within a and those aged 13 to 16 must have Now the authority’s legal bosses those of buying their first bike relatively short space of time. a junior licence, which is free. there, and, later, for their chil- are arranging interviews with staff The Poplars Care Centre makes a vital contribution and elected members present at the dren, were being shared on the final day’s trading. closed session to find the “mole”. Mike Angell congratulates new chairman Ann Allen to the Maidstone community, being registered to Village councillor Martin Game award for teen chef Conservative Cllr Jonathan Purle STUDENT Charlotte Fife’s flair for good food and great cooking care for up to seventy-one people and able to cope ( Bridge ward) said: “To be honest, Round said: “This has been a wonderful business that had val- has been recognised with a top award. with many specialist needs. I don’t see this is the most appro- The 16-year-old from Invicta Grammar School took silver against priate way for taxpayers’ money to Ann is new KCC chair ued service in the community. Personally, I benefited, and my more than 80 students from across the country in the School Game The service respects the privacy and dignity of be spent or a good use of the coun- ANN Allen is the new chairman of porate parenting panel and is also Changer challenge. cil’s time.” bike is better for it. I’ll miss it.” Kent County Council. the council’s learning disability Her pheasant breast and butternut squash combo with pickled each individual while providing them with access MBC legal chief Patricia Narebor She takes on the role from Cllr champion. With this in mind, she blackberries passed the taste test when it went before judges in the to skilled carers 24/7, as well as a versatile told members an investigation Mike Angell. will be raising money for the Young Calling time contest set by the Taste of Game and Food Teachers’ Centre and will activities programme established to support would be undertaken “regarding He told Downs Mail: “It has been Lives Foundation, based in Maid- feature in a booklet being given out at game fairs across the coun- the release of exempt information to BT HAS refused requests to repair long-term physical and mental well-being. my privilege to serve and I will al- stone. try. the Downs Mail that was... dis- ways be thankful for the opportu- Graham Gibbens will be standing the red phone box at Church Judging this year’s Game Stars were chefs Lisa Goodwin–Allen, cussed at the committee. The inves- nity.” down as cabinet member for Adult Green, says Staplehurst Parish Bruno Birkbeck and Emma Lawson. tigation will involve members of Mr Angell raised more than Social Care and Public Health to Council. Instead, the telecoms Charlotte’s cookery teacher, Nikki Billingham, said: “She is 158 Tonbridge Road, P&R,visitingmembersandofficers.” £4,500 for the Samaritans during serve as her vice-chairman. The giant is to launch a consultation amazing with flavours, textures and presentation; she’s a natural She later told Downs Mail: “It’s his year in office. adult social care and public health into decommissioning it. and extremely creative.” Maidstone ME16 8SU an internal operational issue so I Mrs Allen, MBE, – a retired cater- portfolio, which includes residential The parish council says vil- In her spare time, Charlotte, who lives in Loose and made it would not like to discuss it with ing officer for Dartford Hospital and and home care and support for peo- lagers keen to send feedback, through to the Kent Young Chef final last year, works as a pastry 01622 752872 the Downs Mail at the moment.” a former foster carer – was elected ple with learning disabilities, will be should email BT’s customer serv- chef at Chapel Down Winery’s restaurant in Tenterden. Full story, page 22 to KCC in 1997. She chairs the cor- taken on by Clair Bell. ice team at customer.serv.pay- www.carehome.co.uk [email protected].

Maidstone Weald July 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Guide Dogs help needed Village rallies after fire THE Guide Dogs charity is looking to recruit volunteers in Marden in support of its “My Guide” drive. The free service helps people hits community shed with a vision impairment get out of their homes and into the commu- A VILLAGE is “in complete nity, but relies on volunteers. shock” after a storage shed was The scheme trains volunteers to engulfed by fire during a sus- provide confident sighted guide pected burglary attempt in assistance on a regular basis, to . people living with sight loss. This Residents on Church Street say helps them to access services and they were woken by the smell of David gain confidence on public trans- burning as smoke spilled from the Gubbins and port. outbuilding near the village hall in Jen Cleaver Those interested are asked to the early hours of Tuesday, June with the 18. spare a couple of hours a week. For burnt-out A beer tent, barbecue, signs, details, contact the Guide Dogs shed team at Maidstone on 01189 838711 crockery, games and banners for or [email protected]. the annual summer fete went up in flames. The pavilion contained five goal post is about £700 a set and flames. gas canisters, so if they had set that there were two of them. We are Chairman of the Boughton on fire it would’ve been 10 times looking at over £1,000 in damages. Barn dance Monchelsea village fete, Jen worse. “We had only just bought those WEALD of Kent Rotary Club is Cleaver, said: “Eight years’ worth “The morning it happened I was goal posts for the next season.” staging a charity barn dance at of equipment has been destroyed. completely gutted, but it was so A spokesman for Kent Police Headcorn Village Hall, at 7.30pm The artist Graham Clarke did us a heartening to see the community said: “Officers are investigating a on Saturday, August 3. fantastic stock, which was a really rallying round to make sure the report of an attempted burglary Funds raised will go to St Peter important stand at the fete – things fete would still go ahead. It’s mind- and fire damage to an outbuilding and St Paul’s Church and Head- like that are irreplaceable. blowing really.” at Boughton Monchelsea village corn Seniors Lunch Club. Tickets “On the CCTV, you can see a Secretary of the MPE Football hall.” are £10 each and are available from group break into the pavilion, run Club, David Gubbins, said: Those with information can con- Sweet William florists and Head- back to the car and then to the “Words completely fail me. All the tact Kent Police on 01622 604100 corn Delicatessen. shed. Moments later it was up in equipment is burnt to a crisp. A quoting reference 18-0224. Business Focus

6 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Guide Dogs help needed Village rallies after fire Denture care to make you smile THE Guide Dogs charity is looking SB Denture Design Ltd (formerly known as SB repairs and adjustments through to new sets we to recruit volunteers in Marden in Dental Laboratory) are now pleased to offer our can offer a complete denture care service. support of its “My Guide” drive. services directly to the public. SB was founded in Although the work is done ‘in house’ with SB Denture Design Ltd offer The free service helps people hits community shed 1989, producing quality denture work for dentists partial dentures and other more complex cases FREE consultations and can with a vision impairment get out of in Maidstone and the surrounding areas. we work closely with the dentist. It is essential advise you on the best their homes and into the commu- A VILLAGE is “in complete Since then Steve, the founder of SB Denture that the health of any remaining teeth are denture options available. nity, but relies on volunteers. shock” after a storage shed was Design has been clinically trained so we are able checked out before denture construction. This is The scheme trains volunteers to engulfed by fire during a sus- to provide our services directly to you. He gained necessary to ensure the prosthesis is a long term provide confident sighted guide pected burglary attempt in further clinical qualifications at the University of solution. We can accept referrals from you own assistance on a regular basis, to Boughton Monchelsea. Central Lancashire (with merit) and this enables dentist or we can arrange an appointment with him to treat patients directly thus alleviating the people living with sight loss. This Residents on Church Street say one of our dental colleagues at your first need to visit the dentist for the impressions, helps them to access services and they were woken by the smell of David appointment. denture try in and the fitting of the dentures. Any burning as smoke spilled from the Gubbins and Having the laboratory on the premises reduces gain confidence on public trans- necessary after care would be provided by us as port. outbuilding near the village hall in Jen Cleaver the waiting time for some services, some services the early hours of Tuesday, June well. Those interested are asked to with the With over 25 years of experience in like repairs can even be done while you wait. It is 18. spare a couple of hours a week. For burnt-out manufacturing all styles of dental appliances, we also an advantage as some larger adjustments A beer tent, barbecue, signs, details, contact the Guide Dogs shed can now hand craft your dentures for you from can be done in house team at Maidstone on 01189 838711 crockery, games and banners for start to finish. By dealing directly with the We pride ourselves in making sure everyone we or [email protected]. the annual summer fete went up in flames. The pavilion contained five goal post is about £700 a set and technician who will make your dentures we can treat is happy with the product we produce and flames. gas canisters, so if they had set that there were two of them. We are tailor your prosthesis to your own personal want our patients to have the confidence that Chairman of the Boughton on fire it would’ve been 10 times looking at over £1,000 in damages. individual requirements. their denture has been constructed with the Barn dance Monchelsea village fete, Jen worse. “We had only just bought those Using only the highest quality materials and all utmost care and using only quality materials. Our WEALD of Kent Rotary Club is Cleaver, said: “Eight years’ worth “The morning it happened I was goal posts for the next season.” the latest technologies you are guaranteed a aim is to make people comfortable with our staging a charity barn dance at of equipment has been destroyed. completely gutted, but it was so A spokesman for Kent Police product of the very highest standard. From treatment and confident with our product. Headcorn Village Hall, at 7.30pm The artist Graham Clarke did us a heartening to see the community said: “Officers are investigating a on Saturday, August 3. fantastic stock, which was a really rallying round to make sure the report of an attempted burglary Funds raised will go to St Peter important stand at the fete – things fete would still go ahead. It’s mind- and fire damage to an outbuilding and St Paul’s Church and Head- like that are irreplaceable. blowing really.” at Boughton Monchelsea village T: 01622 766077 SB Denture Design Ltd corn Seniors Lunch Club. Tickets “On the CCTV, you can see a Secretary of the MPE Football hall.” E: [email protected] 2 Wallis Avenue are £10 each and are available from Club, David Gubbins, said: Those with information can con- group break into the pavilion, run W: Maidstone, Sweet William florists and Head- back to the car and then to the “Words completely fail me. All the tact Kent Police on 01622 604100 ww w.sbdentures.co.uk Kent ME15 9DX corn Delicatessen. shed. Moments later it was up in equipment is burnt to a crisp. A quoting reference 18-0224.

Maidstone Weald July 2019 7 News | Scam warning downsmail.co.uk IN YOUR AREA Increase in scammers MAIDSTONE A bogus pest con- troller convinced a pensioner he needed work done after smug- gling a dead rat into his property. preying on vulnerable The victim agreed to hire the crook but, after a week of very lit- tle work and the price increasing CRIMINALS are using increasingly imaginative tactics to part to nearly £60,000, the pensioner contacted his family. Kent County pensioners from their savings in an unprecedented attack on society’s Council Trading Standards inter- most vulnerable, writes Jade Schopman. vened and prevented the victim paying any more money. Since the beginning of this year, HEADCORN Police received four Downs Mail has been inundated reports of a woman asking for with reports of ruthless scammers money to pay a locksmith, either pursuing householders for every because she had been locked out penny they can get. of her car or her bank cards had Con artists have posed as council been stolen. Two of the targets members and police officers, smug- were pensioners. A 54-year-old gled dead rats into homes while Maidstone woman was arrested claiming to be pest controllers, then and charged with two counts of convinced residents the animals had fraud by false representation. She been found on their premises. And has been bailed to appear before they have even damaged properties Maidstone Magistrates Court. before knocking on the door and of- fering to fix their own vandalism. LENHAM An elderly couple were Police have reported cases of seri- “scammed out of their life sav- ous fraud in Headcorn, Lenham, ings” by two thieves claiming to Larkfield, Maidstone, Snodland, be repairmen from the council. Kings Hill and Ditton. Kent Police said: “The house- And local councillors say the situ- holder, who is in his 90s, said he ation seems to be getting worse. and they managed to get a few de- these people sound genuine, that was persuaded to hand over his Headcorn borough councillor and tails from her and this lured them they are offering a genuine service, bank card and PIN to pay a de- Age UK Trustee Martin Round (pic- into seeking more, which they did. when in fact they’re not. posit for the repairs, after which tured) said: “This subject is very im- “As her power of attorney, I froze “It’s something that is getting the men left. The cash was taken portant to me as my own mother, the bank account, meaning I could worse in Headcorn, but it happens from his account.” who is 87, got scammed last Christ- only conduct finances using cash all over the place… Bearsted, LARKFIELD AND SNODLAND mas. drawn from a branch over a long Kingswood, . Two men have been accused of “A card came in the post in De- holiday period. My mother worries “I know of some Headcorn resi- hurling bricks at roofs before cember, but it wasn’t a Christmas greatly about money and account dents who have even had their knocking on doors and offering to card. It seemed like a message of management now, to the point number plates cloned and are get- fix the damaged tiles for cash. goodwill, but there was a note from where it does have a severe impact ting speeding and parking fines They were arrested on Saturday, somebody claiming to be a financial on her health. It’s more time, more through the post for offences they May 11. Their van was stopped by advisor with a number to call. stress and more energy. had not committed. It’s extremely officers at Quarry Wood Indus- “My mother called the number “The victims think that because worrying.” trial Estate, Aylesford. They are on bail until July 30. MAIDSTONE An elderly woman was cold-called by a man claiming How to avoid being a victim to be a roofer. He convinced her roof was leaking by going into the POLICE and anti-fraud specialists fraud and be wary of emails with at- loft and bringing down a wet piece are giving Downs Mail readers ex- tachments which might contain of wood that he had dipped in the tensive advice on spotting the signs viruses designed to obtain personal water tank. He increased the price of a scam, and guidance on who or financial information.” by “finding” other work that was criminals target and how. KCC victim safeguarding officer in “urgent” need of attention. The District commander Chief Inspec- Elaine Mount said: “Victims are not criminal told the victim to cash tor Ray Quiller (pictured) said: just the elderly, they are people with several cheques, totalling over “Please don’t allow anyone you mental health issues, dementia, or £10,000, at a high street cash ex- don’t know or were not expecting to those living alone. change business. enter your property and certainly do “Isolation is a major problem be- not hand them cash or your bank cause they (the callers) befriend KINGS HILL Doorstep callers card for repairs or services. them and, for the victim, it is a bit of have been targeting homes, selling “Don’t be afraid to ask them for company. household products. Kings Hill identification.” “The financial and health impacts Parish Council said: “They will Inspector Mark Hedges added: can be devastating.” often say they are on a rehabilita- “Sadly, some criminals will look to Head of Action Fraud, Pauline For more information, visit tion scheme trying to find work exploit the more vulnerable mem- Smith said: “These criminals will con- www.kent.gov.uk/SpotTheSigns. and may have a false trading per- bers of our communities by charg- tact victims in many ways including If you think you may be the mit or ID. Callers may claim to be ing exorbitant amounts of money spoofed calls, voicemails and text victim of a scam, contact Action ex-convicts on a course arranged for work that is often completely un- messages. Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or Kent by probation services or other or- necessary or at best substandard.” “People should spot the signs of Police on 101. ganisations. Probation services do not run such schemes.”

8 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Why you should only buy sunglasses from the expert It may be time to replace your sunglasses. Award-winning Optometrist, Alisdair Buchanan tells us why...

Consumer magazine Which? found that 71% of the sunglasses purchased from large high street stores failed the British Standard. Many were so poor quality that they distorted vision, caused headaches and were illegal for driving. Many lenses also failed the impact resistant tests which ensure your • Sun glare causes 3,000 injuries Don’t risk your comfort and eye safety as well as the longevity of due to road accidents every health, buy your spectacles from the lenses. year. Sunglasses prevent car eye experts, not supermarkets accidents. and fashion stores. Every pair of Old or scratched sunglasses can sunglasses you buy from Buchanan also let through more UV light than Optometrists will give you 100% • Wearing sunglasses especially intended. So now is the perfect time UVA and UVB protection as well earlier in life can delay the to replace them. as meeting the stringent British and onset of cataracts. We stock European sunglass lens standards. sunglasses for babies, toddlers Mr Buchanan explains only 40% of With a large range of prescription and children. people wear sunglasses regularly. and non-prescription sunglasses Many people seem to believe and expert advice, you can be that if they are ‘not sensitive to • Wearing sunglasses can help assured your new sunglasses will bright light’ or have ‘never worn’ prevent macular degeneration. them, then they don’t need to, but provide the best UV protection and unfortunately, no one is immune to sight-threatening condition. sharpest vision. Call in today and give your eyes the best care. • Sunglasses protect the delicate skin around your eyes which comfort in bright weather but can we cannot apply sun cream to Book your appointment also help protect against many thus preventing eyelid cancers. Call now on - common eye conditions that • Achieve sporting prowess. New develop as we age. We are all 01622 535115 tennis, cycling and water sports but often forget about the health of can give you the competitive our eyes in the sun. Children from edge. 6 months old should be wearing sunglasses in bright weather. • Sunglasses are not just for summer. With Serengeti So, here are 6 reasons why you polarised, photochromic lenses should get yourself ready for the you can wear them dawn sun. Buchanan House, til dusk throughout the year 56 Malling Road, Snodland, whenever the sun shines. Kent, ME6 5NB

Maidstone Weald July 2019 9 News downsmail.co.uk Fruit farms face picking crisis FRUIT farms in the Weald of Kent face staff shortages which could Hit by falling pound adversely affect their business as PAUL Haralambie (34) first came to the UK in Britain heads for Brexit, according 2005 and has been here more or less ever to an influential rural landown- since. ers’ body. He acts as an agent, bringing in about 40 As the cherry trees and berry migrant workers from his native Romania. bushes groan under the weight of The public administration graduate lives in this year’s harvest, the CLA South Coxheath with wife Anka, who has a degree East has called on government to in biochemistry. They are expecting their first reconsider its visa scheme post- child. departure from the EU. He said: “It looks okay this year, but it is not Numbers of migrants coming to the same as in previous years. Some of the Kent to pick fruit has been tailing guys are looking to go to places like Germany off for years, and while farmers wheretheyarepaidwell,isclosertohomeand have done much to make the UK because the pound sterling has dropped.” attractive, there are many reasons to stop coming. director Robin Edwards said: “Kent vest produce and it could leave in the summer, said its workforce is For instance, the economy in has some industry-leading fruit fruit rotting unpicked in the fields, mostly foreign, as English workers Poland is burgeoning and many farms, but many are facing short- which would be a massive waste. are difficult to find. eastern Europeans are being ages in labour supply which could “Farms are making big efforts to Other farms have tried to bring tempted neighbouring countries, hit them hard. Many farmers have recruit and retain staff, offering en- British students in via social media, where the pay is better and travel seen a slowdown in EU labour over hanced accommodation, benefits but not in sufficient numbers. costs lower. The weakness of ster- the last few years. Under the gov- and services, organising sporting Canterbury-based AG Recruit- ling is a factor, too. ernment’s pilot scheme, visas will events and socials for workers, ment managing director Douglas But the main issue is Brexit, be granted for up to 2,500 non-EU helping with banking and paper- Amesz echoed the CLA earlier this which, says the CLA, the govern- workers for six months, but that work. They need support from year when he said: “It is not possi- ment’s visa scheme of 2,500 places figure will be nowhere near government to tackle the impacts of ble to stop freedom of movement is not adequate to deal with. Some enough to tackle shortages. a shrinking workforce.” overnight. But if there is a no-deal 60-80,000 seasonal migrant workers “If gaps in labour supply con- A spokesman for Brexit, there cannot be an imple- are needed annually. CLA regional tinue, farmers will struggle to har- Valley, which harvests apples later mentation period.”

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10 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Fruit farms face picking crisis FRUIT farms in the Weald of Kent Summer face staff shortages which could Hit by falling pound adversely affect their business as PAUL Haralambie (34) first came to the UK in Britain heads for Brexit, according 2005 and has been here more or less ever to an influential rural landown- since. ers’ body. He acts as an agent, bringing in about 40 As the cherry trees and berry migrant workers from his native Romania. LIVING bushes groan under the weight of The public administration graduate lives in this year’s harvest, the CLA South Coxheath with wife Anka, who has a degree East has called on government to in biochemistry. They are expecting their first reconsider its visa scheme post- child. departure from the EU. He said: “It looks okay this year, but it is not Be inspired by our Numbers of migrants coming to the same as in previous years. Some of the Kent to pick fruit has been tailing guys are looking to go to places like Germany off for years, and while farmers wheretheyarepaidwell,isclosertohomeand SUMMER SALE have done much to make the UK because the pound sterling has dropped.” Price of a pint attractive, there are many reasons to stop coming. director Robin Edwards said: “Kent vest produce and it could leave in the summer, said its workforce is For instance, the economy in has some industry-leading fruit fruit rotting unpicked in the fields, mostly foreign, as English workers Poland is burgeoning and many farms, but many are facing short- which would be a massive waste. are difficult to find. eastern Europeans are being ages in labour supply which could “Farms are making big efforts to Other farms have tried to bring to save church tempted neighbouring countries, hit them hard. Many farmers have recruit and retain staff, offering en- British students in via social media, where the pay is better and travel seen a slowdown in EU labour over hanced accommodation, benefits but not in sufficient numbers. A WEALD vicar is urging vil- Just one of her four churches, St costs lower. The weakness of ster- the last few years. Under the gov- and services, organising sporting Canterbury-based AG Recruit- lagers to dig into their pockets Peter and St Paul’s in Headcorn, ling is a factor, too. ernment’s pilot scheme, visas will events and socials for workers, ment managing director Douglas and buy her churches a drink. cost about £66,000 to run last year. But the main issue is Brexit, be granted for up to 2,500 non-EU helping with banking and paper- Amesz echoed the CLA earlier this The Rev Fiona Haskett believes She said: “When I was training which, says the CLA, the govern- workers for six months, but that work. They need support from year when he said: “It is not possi- householders who spare the price 15 years ago, we were told we’d ment’s visa scheme of 2,500 places figure will be nowhere near government to tackle the impacts of ble to stop freedom of movement of a beer and a packet of crisps (or spend more time on administra- is not adequate to deal with. Some enough to tackle shortages. a shrinking workforce.” overnight. But if there is a no-deal a coffee and a muffin) could make tion than we could possibly imag- 60-80,000 seasonal migrant workers “If gaps in labour supply con- A spokesman for Chegworth Brexit, there cannot be an imple- a serious dent in spiralling church ine… and back then I never are needed annually. CLA regional tinue, farmers will struggle to har- Valley, which harvests apples later mentation period.” running costs. envisaged having four churches. The vicar of , “The result is I don’t get to do as Headcorn, and Chart many of the things I think I should Sutton, says her pitch for £5 do- be doing, like visiting people. I nations is still in its infancy, but have an excellent team around me there already seems to be a corre- who do much of that, but I always lation between the campaign and feel I should be doing more.” money appearing in collection She recognises society’s rela- boxes. tionship with religion is changing, EXTRA SALE OFFERS She said: “You hear people in and says she would rather have MUST END 14TH JULY and cafes offering to buy people come once a year at Christ- each other drinks, and it occurred mas, than not at all. But she said EXTRA 5% OFF to me that if they did the same for the church is also part of the fabric EXTRA 10% OFF SALE PRICES our churches, it would make a and identity of Weald communi- SALE PRICES on made-to-order considerable difference to our fi- ties and a social linchpin. on stock items nances.” “One parishioner said that al- products across the store Rev Haskett’s inspired drive though I wouldn’t see him at a comes as the clergy tries to bal- service, he appreciated the church ance its traditional spiritual role was part of village life and he was with maintaining the nation’s an- keen to support us,” she said. “I’m 3 YEARS INTEREST FREE cient and iconic buildings. very grateful for his help.” credit with a 10% low deposit* Costs broken down HEADCORN’S St Peter and St On top of that, the church faces Paul cost a conservative £66,000 unexpected one-off bills. In par- to repair and maintain last year. ticular, its two 100-year-old Rev Haskett says this figure stained glass windows will be breaks down into £42,000 for the lost in just two years if no repairs parish share (the money the are carried out. This work is ex- 01622 753073 | clarkesfurnishers.co.uk church gives to the diocese), in- pected to cost between £70,000 surance in excess of £4,200, utili- and £100,000. Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF ties £1,700, repairs and The church did try to secure maintenance nearly £13,000, ad- lottery support but, amid a na- ministration just short of £2,000, tional clamour for charity fund- *3 Years Interest Free Credit when you spend over £1000. Cash price £1000, charity support over £2,500 and ing, St Peter and St Paul’s was deposit £100. 36 monthly payments of £25. Total payable £1000. Subject to status. miscellaneous spending in ex- not one of the four winning bids Credit subject to acceptance. Not applicable to clearance goods. cess of £500. out of a total 21 applications.

Maidstone Weald July 2019 11 News downsmail.co.uk Royal honours for locals THREE people from the area have had their service to the community recognised by the Queen in her Birthday Honours List.

Jim Findlay, from Holling- the foundation provides a be- bourne, receives an OBE; Molly friending service to young people. Poulter, from Ulcombe, a British Clive’s contribution to the Empire Medal; and Maidstone county of Kent was recognised by auctioneer Clive Emson becomes Kent County Council in 2017 with an MBE. the Kent Invicta Award. Former stockbroker Jim Find- Naturally, Molly Poulter (86), lay, from Pilgrims Way, Holling- pictured left, was helping at Ul- bourne, receives his award for his combe Church summer fayre work for the area, after moving to when the news came through. She the village 34 years ago. said: “It’s very exciting. I’ve had He was church warden for 10 so many people congratulate me years and, following his retire- and the vicar announced it in ment in 2001, has used his finan- church.” cial skills to the benefit of others She plans to wear a £20 cream including Maidstone Girls’ Gram- dress she bought from a charity mar School and as a finance com- shop to pick up her award. mittee member for the Canterbury Molly and her husband moved Diocese. from Chislehurst in 1956 to Ul- The 75-year-old was also one of combe. She has set up a new play- the founders of the Meadows group, lunch club, friends’ group Trust, which has brought land to for the elderly and the history so- protect it from development, for has been useful.” for the Young Lives Foundation, ciety. She also led the fund-raising the public’s use. Maidstone based auctioneer which is based in College Road, campaign to build Ulcombe Vil- He said: “I hope it is a reflection Clive Emson (72) earned his MBE Maidstone. As the charity’s found- lage Hall and the Heart of Kent that some of the work I have done for his charity work, particularly ing chairman and now president, Hospice at Aylesford. National date Crash driver’s HEADCORN’S Kristian Samwell- Cricket club honours Nash has been selected to run for van ‘took off’ the county in the English Schools THE Mote Cricket Club hon- A MOTORIST was driving so fast, Track and Field Championships oured two outstanding hon- his van “took off” before causing a at the Alexander National Sta- orary secretaries when serious collision in Headcorn last dium in Birmingham on July 12 framed photographs of John summer, a court was told. and 13. Gulland and Malcolm Bas- Karl Willoughby (33) had never Kristian (16) recently won the sett were unveiled next to held a licence and had taken class U17 400m in the South East the club honours board in A drugs. Forensic tests showed he Schools Intercounty Champi- the pavilion. had traces of cocaine in his system onships, and is also Kent’s indoor, Blair Gulland (pictured), and had reached speeds of up to county and schools champion. chairman of the Maidstone 75mph in a 30mph limit. He goes to Birmingham as a top solicitors’ firm, unveiled the Willoughby was travelling along five UK athlete for both the 200m photo of his late father, who the A274 Biddenden Road when and 400m, and will also be com- held the office from 1958 to he lost control on a bridge. His peting as part of the Kent 4x100m 1973. Blair said he was Transit van hit two oncoming ve- relay team. pleased the long association hicles, injuring two women, one of with the club would continue whom had to be cut free. Calves rescue now that Gullands were Sergeant Peter Greaves, of Kent Police, said: “Witnesses reported FIREFIGHTERS have hauled two main sponsors for five years. Club chairman Glen seeing the van flying through the calves out of an old drainage sys- air.” tem on Linton Hill. Aukett unveiled the photo of Malcolm Bassett, who has Initially, Willoughby gave police The rescuers found the animals a false name and details. He said just retired after 31 years. in a 5ft pit. They had fallen in he was using the van for work but He also praised lunch after a manhole cover collapsed at confessed he had never held a guests who included Mal- about 1.30pm on Sunday, June 9. driving licence or even taken a test. colm Bristow (past grounds- Crews widened the hole and Appearing before Maidstone lowered a hoist, secured the cat- man and talented batsman), Crown Court, he admitted danger- tle, and hauled them out safely. Bill Hickling (hon treasurer ous driving, aggravated vehicle A spokesman for Kent Fire and for seven vital years), John taking, driving with no insurance Rescue Service said: “They only Booth (fixture secretary for and driving without a licence. had minor grazes and were 22 years) and Nick Aldrich He was sentenced on June 25 to quickly reunited with their (who has built up colts mem- 15 months’ imprisonment. He was mother, who’d been looking on bership to over 130). also disqualified from driving for throughout the rescue.” almost five years.

12 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Royal honours for locals Bloodline wills and care home fees

THREE people from the area have had their service to the community recognised by the Queen Can you avoid your house being sold to pay for care home fees? The answer in in her Birthday Honours List. some cases is yes but unfortunately it is sometimes no. If you are a couple (married or not) you can do a lot with your wills to help with this. There are Jim Findlay, from Holling- the foundation provides a be- bourne, receives an OBE; Molly friending service to young people. also some big mistakes that you need to avoid. Poulter, from Ulcombe, a British Clive’s contribution to the Empire Medal; and Maidstone county of Kent was recognised by auctioneer Clive Emson becomes Kent County Council in 2017 with 1. Deliberate deprivation of assets. an MBE. the Kent Invicta Award. Former stockbroker Jim Find- Naturally, Molly Poulter (86), This is where you have intentionally decreased your overall assets in order to reduce the amount you are lay, from Pilgrims Way, Holling- pictured left, was helping at Ul- charged towards your care and support. If the local authority can show that you knew you were going to need bourne, receives his award for his combe Church summer fayre care when you did this, it can overturn your actions. This doesn’t mean you should give away your house to your work for the area, after moving to when the news came through. She children just in case you might need care. the village 34 years ago. said: “It’s very exciting. I’ve had He was church warden for 10 so many people congratulate me years and, following his retire- and the vicar announced it in 2. Lifetime gifts to children. ment in 2001, has used his finan- church.” In theory you can give everything to your children before you die or go into care but there are some real risks. If cial skills to the benefit of others She plans to wear a £20 cream including Maidstone Girls’ Gram- dress she bought from a charity your children own part or all of your house and they happen to die before you, unless their will leaves the house mar School and as a finance com- shop to pick up her award. to you, you may have to sell! Similarly if a married child gets divorced, the house will be part of their assets for mittee member for the Canterbury Molly and her husband moved the divorce settlement and again, you might have to sell. Diocese. from Chislehurst in 1956 to Ul- The 75-year-old was also one of combe. She has set up a new play- the founders of the Meadows group, lunch club, friends’ group 3. Lifetime gifts to a trust. Trust, which has brought land to for the elderly and the history so- This can be a good solution but only in a few situations and not usually appropriate for your home. It can be very protect it from development, for has been useful.” for the Young Lives Foundation, ciety. She also led the fund-raising expensive and may not achieve the desired outcome. Be careful before you do this. It may be worth getting a the public’s use. Maidstone based auctioneer which is based in College Road, campaign to build Ulcombe Vil- He said: “I hope it is a reflection Clive Emson (72) earned his MBE Maidstone. As the charity’s found- lage Hall and the Heart of Kent second opinion. There may also be tax implications. that some of the work I have done for his charity work, particularly ing chairman and now president, Hospice at Aylesford. 4. Solutions for couples. National date Crash driver’s The best solution for a couple who own their own home is to make sure they have the right sort of wills and own HEADCORN’S Kristian Samwell- Cricket club honours the house in the right way. What is the right way? There are two options. 1. Beneficial joint tenants (owners). Nash has been selected to run for van ‘took off’ 2. Tenants (owners) in common. the county in the English Schools THE Mote Cricket Club hon- A MOTORIST was driving so fast, Track and Field Championships oured two outstanding hon- his van “took off” before causing a 5. Beneficial joint tenants. at the Alexander National Sta- orary secretaries when serious collision in Headcorn last dium in Birmingham on July 12 framed photographs of John summer, a court was told. This is the default option and is good for younger home owners because if one of them happens to die, the and 13. Gulland and Malcolm Bas- Karl Willoughby (33) had never house automatically reverts to the other – they don’t even need a will! Unfortunately it is not so good later in Kristian (16) recently won the sett were unveiled next to held a licence and had taken class life and many couples also have standard mirror wills leaving everything to each other and then to the children U17 400m in the South East the club honours board in A drugs. Forensic tests showed he Schools Intercounty Champi- on second death. For older couples tenants in common is better. the pavilion. had traces of cocaine in his system onships, and is also Kent’s indoor, Blair Gulland (pictured), and had reached speeds of up to county and schools champion. chairman of the Maidstone 75mph in a 30mph limit. 6. Tenants in common. He goes to Birmingham as a top solicitors’ firm, unveiled the Willoughby was travelling along five UK athlete for both the 200m This way you each own half of the house. On death, with the right will, one half can go into a trust which means photo of his late father, who the A274 Biddenden Road when and 400m, and will also be com- held the office from 1958 to he lost control on a bridge. His it cannot be used to pay for care if the survivor requires it. With the right trust, the survivor can still live in the peting as part of the Kent 4x100m 1973. Blair said he was Transit van hit two oncoming ve- house (and downsize if required) but the half in the trust is protected and can pass on to the children on second relay team. pleased the long association hicles, injuring two women, one of death. This also protects against the surviving spouse remarrying and the house going to the new spouse. with the club would continue whom had to be cut free. Calves rescue now that Gullands were Sergeant Peter Greaves, of Kent Police, said: “Witnesses reported 7. How can Camrass Wills help? FIREFIGHTERS have hauled two main sponsors for five years. Club chairman Glen seeing the van flying through the We can advise you what is best for your situation and make sure it is correctly documented. We can tell you how calves out of an old drainage sys- air.” tem on Linton Hill. Aukett unveiled the photo of you own your home – the Land Registry documents do not use either of the phrases, beneficial joint tenants or Malcolm Bassett, who has Initially, Willoughby gave police The rescuers found the animals a false name and details. He said tenants in common! just retired after 31 years. in a 5ft pit. They had fallen in he was using the van for work but He also praised lunch after a manhole cover collapsed at confessed he had never held a guests who included Mal- about 1.30pm on Sunday, June 9. driving licence or even taken a test. colm Bristow (past grounds- Crews widened the hole and Appearing before Maidstone For Wills, Probate, Powers of attorney & Funeral plans lowered a hoist, secured the cat- man and talented batsman), Crown Court, he admitted danger- Phone Camrass Wills to book a free initial consultation. Bill Hickling (hon treasurer tle, and hauled them out safely. ous driving, aggravated vehicle Tel: 01622 720985 www.camrasswills.co.uk A spokesman for Kent Fire and for seven vital years), John taking, driving with no insurance Rescue Service said: “They only Booth (fixture secretary for and driving without a licence. had minor grazes and were 22 years) and Nick Aldrich He was sentenced on June 25 to quickly reunited with their (who has built up colts mem- 15 months’ imprisonment. He was mother, who’d been looking on bership to over 130). also disqualified from driving for throughout the rescue.” almost five years. 2019 marks the 25th anniversary of the Society of Will Writers

Maidstone Weald July 2019 13 Summe Event & Dining

The Hop Pole

Mark and Kirsty welcome you to The Hop Pole Inn located in Nettlestead Green. We pride ourselves on our freshly cooked food and homemade desserts. A carvery is served six days a week Tuesday to Sunday and our a la carte menu is also available. Large parties are catered for and we have a large conservatory dining area. A sheltered beer garden with swings and a slide for your children to play on whilst you relax.

01622 816916 thehoppoleinnnettlestead

Maidstone Road, Nettlestead Green, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 5HH

COMBINED OPS AIR SHOW SOUTHERN MODEL SHOW 10 & 11 August 2019 7 & 8 September 2019 This unique event has a variety of vintage and modern Featuring a stunning array of model aircraft, aircraft displays, on the ground and in the air. A family helicopters, ships, tank and other vehicles and a show event which includes static military vehicles, living history re-enactment groups, arena events, military could possibly need for models. A must go to event for stalls, children’s entertainment and food stalls. anyone with an interest in this fascinating hobby. BOTH OF THESE GREAT EVENTS WILL BE HELD AT: Headcorn Aerodrome, Shenley Road, Headcorn Ashford, Kent TN27 9HX For tickets & more information please contact us on 0845 652 6263 | [email protected] HeadcornEvents.co.uk

14 Maidstone Weald July 2019 Summe The Good Intent Event & Dining Events Coming Up: 13th July - Party on the Green Live rockabilly music from "The Accidents". Noodle Bar - 7pm-late 17th August - Beer Olympics 3pm on The Green in aid of Heart of Kent Hospice. Call to book in teams of 4 or more!

Opening Times: 12pm-11pm 7 days a week

Food Served: Tuesday-Sunday - 12pm-3pm Thursday-Friday 5pm-9pm Saturday 6pm-9pm

Chilli Thursdays - Eat in or Take Away Fish & Chip Friday - Coming Soon - Curry Saturdays 01622 812426 The Green, West Farleigh, Maidstone ME15 0NN

Maidstone Weald July 2019 15 THE WALNUT TREE Your traditional, family run, local pub. Kent’s longest running comedy Summe club Every Thursday – Come and see the future Event & Dining stars of comedy live! Live Music - every Friday (visit website for details) Jam Night - First Monday of the month

Live Band Quiz Night Third Monday of Every Month

Dogs welcome on their leads Lovely beer garden and car park. Varied bar menu served every day 12noon-8.30pm. Come try our famous ‘Build a Burger’ meals! Find us opposite the entrance to Oakwood Park Tonbridge Road, Maidstone ME16 8SR 01622 727260 email : [email protected] web : www.thewalnuttreemaidstone.com

Saturday 13th July LIVE LOCALLY LOCAL RAFFLE SOURCED Kentish WITH MUSIC S SUPER FINE C ALL A S PRIZES DAY U E I S SAG DE R To help raise funds for theknoxbridge.co.uk 01580 895374 The Knoxbridge, Cranbrook Road, Frittenden TN17 2BT

16 Maidstone Weald July 2019 JAZZ ON THE LAWN AT TUDOR PARK 14th July 2019

This summer sees the return for the 3rd year running of our exclusive event ‘Lazz on the Lawn’ at Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club. Enjoy listening to the live band — Blue Print Trio — in the beautiful grounds of the hotel next to our gazebo, whilst enjoying a delicious traditional afternoon tea. Starts at 2pm and music is until 5pm. Book your ticket now to avoid disappointment! £25.00 per person (10% discount for members). Call the hotel on 01622 632006 for more information and for terms and conditions. Subject to availability. Email [email protected]

Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club TUDOR PARK MARRIOTT Ashford Road Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4NQ 01622 734334

ESTABLISHED OVER 14 YEARS Every Sunday Night Special Eat in Only Deal - Choose 1 Starter, 1 Main & 1 Side, Rice or Naan, plus 1 Glass of Wine pp or 1/2 Carafe of House Wine per couple & Tea or Coffee - £12.95 per person £11pp Children under 10 - £7.95 - includes a soft drink • Outside Catering

5.30pm to 11pm £25 Private Car park at rear of Restaurant

Maidstone Weald July 2019 17 News downsmail.co.uk Bird shooting ban overturned THE government has performed a U-turn on a controversial ruling to revoke shooting licences, following widespread pressure from farmers and conservationists. Environment secretary Michael Packham, argued that, instead of Gove waded into the row after one general licences, the authorities of his agencies, Natural England, only had the power to issue indi- abolished three general licences vidual licences, once applicants that allowed land managers to use had exhausted all non-lethal meth- firearms to control “pest” birds. ods of bird control. Landowners had argued the Opponents say the resulting move would leave rare songbird sudden change to licensing would nests vulnerable to raids from have left vulnerable, rare or “red- crows and magpies if there was no listed” birds like linnets and yel- effective way to control the preda- lowhammers at the mercy of tors. predators. Marden farmer Peter Hall said Langley conservationist Theo land managers had been given just McCausland told Downs Mail: 36 hours warning before the li- “The implications for agriculture cences were scrapped. Michael Gove, left, and a magpie and red-listed birds didn’t bear However, in a surprise about (RSPB image) thinking about. face, Mr Gove seized control of my judgement is that the present “The three new general licences “Chris Packham probably had Natural England’s licensing pow- situation needs to be considered seek to minimise some of the neg- the best of intentions, but he ers on June 14 and replaced the with particular intensity and ur- ative impacts that the withdrawal should know that even the RSPB three abolished licences … with gency. of the previous licences had. But actively controls crows at this time three very similar ones. “I completely recognise that this this is a temporary way forward. of year to protect vulnerable He told Natural England: “I con- situation is not one that Natural We will shortly set out details of a species. sider that it is appropriate for me England wanted.” wider review.” “I’m glad that common sense to take over … for the time being. I In a later public statement, he Natural England pulled the plug has prevailed.” do so recognising the scale of in- added: “I am grateful to those on general shooting licences after a Mr Packham, who has received terest and concern that has been thousands of individuals and legal challenge by Wild Justice. death threats since taking the ac- generated by the decision to re- groups who shared their experi- The not-for-profit company, tion, has vowed to fight on through voke [the licences]; and because ences. fronted by TV presenter Chris the courts. Hospital gets landing pad D-Day vet’s Channel honour AN all-weather landing pad for D-DAY veteran Jack Stacey has been emergency helicopters at Maid- recounting his latest trip to Nor- stone Hospital should be open in mandy, after taking part in the his- two months. toric Voyage of Remembrance to The air ambulance will be the mark the 75th anniversary of the D- main user but other emergency Day landings. services and charities, such as the The first time the decorated war Children’s Air Ambulance, will veteran made the trip, he was in his also be able to use it. 20s and, as a demolition expert, was The helipad behind the oncology clearing a path for the Allied ad- centre will replace a temporary one vance. that was prone to flooding; it This time the overseas trip was far should open at the end of August. more comfortable, according to the The project has been backed by 101-year-old, with shipmates in- £300,000 donated by the public to cluding HRH Prince Charles, Prime the HELP Appeal. Its chief execu- Minister Theresa May and Labour tive Robert Bertram visited Maid- leader Jeremy Corbyn. stone Hospital on June 11 to hand He described his invitation to join over the last of the money. 300 fellow veterans on the remem- to have been given the chance to the Defence Medal and the War He said: “It’s fantastic to see the brance cruise – organised by the visit France again and pay tribute to 1939-45 medal. progress that has been made in just Royal British Legion and the Ministry my fallen comrades, who paid the ul- After the war, Jack worked for a three months. With new lighting, of Defence – as “a tremendous hon- timate sacrifice to help us achieve printer in Fleet Street, publishing na- night landing will be possible for our”. victory.” tional media titles including The Sun the first time in many years, ensur- He was the oldest D-Day veteran Jack joined up in 1939, at the and The News of the World. He mar- ing more lives can be saved.” aboard the Boudicca, which called age of 21 (pictured), and served ried Florence and they had a son, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells at ports on both sides of the Chan- with the Royal Artillery Regiment John. NHS Trust’s chief finance officer nel for commemorative events. throughout WWII, leaving the Jack retired in 1983 and moved to Steve Orpin said: “The new heli- The resident said: “It Army in 1946. the area to live with his son four pad will bring a 24-hour safe land- was a tremendous honour to take He was awarded a host of medals years ago, when his health deterio- ing site back to Maidstone which is part in the Voyage of Remembrance for his service, including the 1939-45 rated. Jack has since received regular great news for patients needing ur- celebrations and I am very grateful Star, the France and Germany Star, home visits from a care provider. gent medical treatment.”

18 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk D-Day Flypast | News Bird shooting ban overturned D-Day flypast thrills spectators THE government has performed a U-turn on a controversial ruling to revoke shooting licences, THOUSANDS of eyes turned to the skies over Maidstone as more than 30 wartime transport following widespread pressure from farmers and conservationists. planes flew over the county, writes Jade Schopman. Environment secretary Michael Packham, argued that, instead of The historic flight – comprising 5pm, spectators agreed it had Gove waded into the row after one general licences, the authorities almost every surviving Dakota in been well worth the wait. of his agencies, Natural England, only had the power to issue indi- the world, plus a few Spitfire es- Helen Ladlow (44), of Boarley abolished three general licences vidual licences, once applicants corts – was heading to France on Lane, Sandling, said: “About 35 that allowed land managers to use had exhausted all non-lethal meth- June 5, in preparation for the 75th Dakotas flew straight over my firearms to control “pest” birds. ods of bird control. anniversary of the D-Day land- house, we had a really good Landowners had argued the Opponents say the resulting ings. view. I watched the display from move would leave rare songbird sudden change to licensing would The “Daks over Normandy” my garden with my two daugh- nests vulnerable to raids from have left vulnerable, rare or “red- spectacular started from Dux- ters, Sophie (17) and Katie (15). crows and magpies if there was no listed” birds like linnets and yel- ford Airfield and crossed Maid- “It was really amazing watch- effective way to control the preda- lowhammers at the mercy of stone en route to ing them fly right over my house. tors. predators. Caen-Carpiquet. I count myself very lucky.” Helen Ladlow took this picture of the Dakotas over her garden Marden farmer Peter Hall said Langley conservationist Theo News of the flypast fired the The planes were carrying 250 land managers had been given just McCausland told Downs Mail: public’s imagination, with cars proved popular locations for the spokesman said. The traffic is- parachutists who, like Allied 36 hours warning before the li- “The implications for agriculture stopping at random vantage growing number of spectators. sues were further exacerbated by troops exactly 75 years before, cences were scrapped. Michael Gove, left, and a magpie and red-listed birds didn’t bear points, people gathering on M20 At one stage, Kent Police is- a two-and-half hour delay to the flew across the English Channel However, in a surprise about (RSPB image) thinking about. bridges between Maidstone and sued and appeal for people to Dakotas’ much publicised take- and jumped into the famous face, Mr Gove seized control of my judgement is that the present “The three new general licences “Chris Packham probably had Kings Hill, and others packing think before abandoning their off, with people waiting around drop zones of Normandy. Natural England’s licensing pow- situation needs to be considered seek to minimise some of the neg- the best of intentions, but he onto the Downs for a glimpse of vehicles in dangerous locations. for the best part of the afternoon. They all wore WWII-style uni- ers on June 14 and replaced the with particular intensity and ur- ative impacts that the withdrawal should know that even the RSPB the once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. “Remember it’s in the sky, so is However, when the aircraft did forms and used military round three abolished licences … with gency. of the previous licences had. But actively controls crows at this time Mote Park, Marden and Loose going to be very visible,” a thunder overhead just before parachutes. three very similar ones. “I completely recognise that this this is a temporary way forward. of year to protect vulnerable He told Natural England: “I con- situation is not one that Natural We will shortly set out details of a species. sider that it is appropriate for me England wanted.” wider review.” “I’m glad that common sense Crowds take to take over … for the time being. I In a later public statement, he Natural England pulled the plug has prevailed.” Pupils stay late to salute air heroes do so recognising the scale of in- added: “I am grateful to those on general shooting licences after a Mr Packham, who has received MANY students, hoping to see the terest and concern that has been thousands of individuals and legal challenge by Wild Justice. death threats since taking the ac- stables cafe historic flypast, were defeated by generated by the decision to re- groups who shared their experi- The not-for-profit company, tion, has vowed to fight on through the take-off delay. voke [the licences]; and because ences. fronted by TV presenter Chris the courts. by surprise However, some Maidstone A SMALL village riding school Grammar School pupils stayed came to the rescue of those left after school to witness the event. Hospital gets waiting to glimpse the delayed A spokesman for the school said: D-Day vet’s Channel honour flight, by serving up much “Sadly, due to the delayed depar- landing pad needed hot drinks. ture most of the school missed the AN all-weather landing pad for D-DAY veteran Jack Stacey has been Hayley Squirrell (56), owner of flight. Many, however, planned on Cadets salute the flypast at Maidstone Grammar School emergency helicopters at Maid- recounting his latest trip to Nor- Squirrells Riding School on Com- staying after school to catch the disrupted by the long delays. the staff did before they went stone Hospital should be open in mandy, after taking part in the his- mon Road, Blue Bell Hill, said: flypast.” A spokesman said: “We hope the home, but it would have been more two months. toric Voyage of Remembrance to “Had we known there would be Loose Primary School revealed children eventually managed to special with the children. We had The air ambulance will be the mark the 75th anniversary of the D- so many vehicles, we would have their plans for the flypast were also see the Dakota flypast. Some of planned to stand in a heart shape.” main user but other emergency Day landings. happily opened the overflow car services and charities, such as the The first time the decorated war park we use for shows, but by the Children’s Air Ambulance, will veteran made the trip, he was in his time we knew, the cars were com- also be able to use it. 20s and, as a demolition expert, was pletely blocked in. Gridlock at viewpoints Planes backed “We served at least 200 people The helipad behind the oncology clearing a path for the Allied ad- KENT Police were forced to issue a statement to urge those watching and we were just selling cakes, centre will replace a temporary one vance. the flight to park responsibly. up the troops bacon sandwiches and soft that was prone to flooding; it This time the overseas trip was far A spokesman said: “Please park responsibly and not dangerously. THE D-Day landings, on June 6, drinks. We also had a toilet peo- should open at the end of August. more comfortable, according to the Reports of people stopping 1944, saw an onslaught that was to ple could use.” The project has been backed by 101-year-old, with shipmates in- in silly locations are coming Mrs Squirrell added: “It’s actu- ultimately break Adolf Hitler’s £300,000 donated by the public to cluding HRH Prince Charles, Prime in. Try to remember it’s in ally really lovely, we are a busi- brutal grip on Europe the HELP Appeal. Its chief execu- Minister Theresa May and Labour the sky so is going to be very ness that’s pretty tucked away, so Almost 160,000 Allied troops tive Robert Bertram visited Maid- leader Jeremy Corbyn. visible. Don’t risk your to have that many people come to stormed onto Normandy’s beaches stone Hospital on June 11 to hand He described his invitation to join safety to get the ‘best’ view.” over the last of the money. us was really nice. We’ve been at in a bloody and brutal battle. 300 fellow veterans on the remem- to have been given the chance to the Defence Medal and the War One spectator contacted He said: “It’s fantastic to see the this site since 2011, and the café Those landings were preceded brance cruise – organised by the visit France again and pay tribute to 1939-45 medal. Downs Mail to say: “The progress that has been made in just has only been going for just under by 24,000 troops who parachuted Royal British Legion and the Ministry my fallen comrades, who paid the ul- After the war, Jack worked for a whole of Blue Bell Hill vil- three months. With new lighting, two years. into, or used gliders to touchdown of Defence – as “a tremendous hon- timate sacrifice to help us achieve printer in Fleet Street, publishing na- lage ground to a halt. It took night landing will be possible for “We did have to cancel a few in enemy territory. The most sig- our”. victory.” tional media titles including The Sun me an hour just to get from the first time in many years, ensur- lessons. People trying to get here nificant aircraft to support the as- He was the oldest D-Day veteran Jack joined up in 1939, at the and The News of the World. He mar- the village to the round- ing more lives can be saved.” would have only got trapped in sault were the 800 Douglas C-47 aboard the Boudicca, which called age of 21 (pictured), and served ried Florence and they had a son, about. Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells the traffic, so it was a safety thing. Sky trains, also known as Dakotas. at ports on both sides of the Chan- with the Royal Artillery Regiment John. “When the delay was an- NHS Trust’s chief finance officer “We were thrilled to accommo- Organisers of this year’s flight, nel for commemorative events. throughout WWII, leaving the Jack retired in 1983 and moved to nounced, people who Steve Orpin said: “The new heli- date the people who were caught said it was most probably the last The Harrietsham resident said: “It Army in 1946. the area to live with his son four needed to pick their kids up pad will bring a 24-hour safe land- in the middle. Most people just large tribute to this historic opera- was a tremendous honour to take He was awarded a host of medals years ago, when his health deterio- from school could not get ing site back to Maidstone which is wanted a takeaway cup of tea and tion. Nearly all the world’s re- part in the Voyage of Remembrance for his service, including the 1939-45 rated. Jack has since received regular out of the car park. It was Cars were parked up on the sliproad from great news for patients needing ur- maining Dakotas took part to celebrations and I am very grateful Star, the France and Germany Star, home visits from a care provider. then went back to watch the completely gridlocked.” gent medical treatment.” flight.” Blue Bell Hill to the country park recreate the event.

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Maidstone Weald July 2019 21 downsmail.co.uk Lenham homes | News Legal chief in probe launch Council hunts for the THE letter from MBC’s head of legal Patricia Narebor said an investigation will be un- dertaken “regarding the re- secret meeting ‘mole’ lease of exempt information to the Downs Mail that was THE leader of Maidstone Borough Council has been urged to “come provided to members and discussed at the committee. clean” about a 2,500-5,000 housing development at Lenham Heath. “The article in the Downs The call comes as the authority process, so that residents can un- launched an internal investigation Mail on May 24 makes refer- was accused of secrecy and sub- derstand what is being proposed, over alleged leaks and will be call- ence to housing in Lenham terfuge. local councillors can be engaged ing more than 20 staff and mem- that was discussed at the Liberal Democrat Cllr Martin early, and sufficient time allowed bers in to give an account of their committee. The investigation Cox ordered the details of the for debate. actions. will involve members of scheme to be heard in closed ses- “There has been a significant In a letter, Cllr Perry urged Cllr P&R, visiting members and sion of the policy and resources amount of alarm since people be- Cox to “come clean” about the officers. committee of May 22 for legal rea- came aware of the secret session of Lenham Heath proposal. “As such, it was in the pub- sons. the P&R committee on May 22. The scheme could entail a new lic interest not to release the The secret session came two MBC should stop trying to keep secondary school and small hos- information at that stage. days before the deadline for the the contents of that meeting secret, pital, and help inform the argu- Confirmation was provided “call for sites”, which sought land stop its efforts at intimidation over ments for a new M20 junction that the information would for about 8,000 more houses in the supposed ‘leaks’, and instead serving both Ashford and the be released to the public at borough, on top of 17,600 in the publish a full account for every- Maidstone borough. the formal consultation Local Plan adopted in late 2017. one to read. Without trans- Cllr Cox said the May 22 meet- stage.” Tory opposition leader Cllr John parency, residents will rightly ask: ing was held in closed session on Perry said: “There is deep concern ‘What are they trying to hide?’” legal advice, adding MBC must Silent Sams amongst residents … and their Downs Mail disclosed the act in a “business-like fashion” in anxieties are seriously heightened, Lenham Heath scheme and some a call for sites process. LENHAM borough council- however, by the culture of secrecy information relating to the May 22 The proper time to make details lor Tom Sams has refused to and subterfuge in this Liberal De- meeting. public and to discuss the details of comment about the proposed mocrat-led council. We need The council’s head of legal af- it would be at the consultation building of up to 5,000 homes proper transparency for the entire fairs, Patricia Narebor, has now stage, he added. on his patch. The independent borough member told Downs Mail: “You’ve asked me for a com- ment and I don’t want to give Mixed feelings on 5,000 homes you a comment, so let’s leave THERE were a range of views about it there, shall we? There’s a the proposal to build up to 5,000 lot going on at the moment.” houses at Lenham Heath. Cllr Sams and fellow Owner of The Upcycled Trading Lenham councillor Janetta Company, Claire Rickner (46) said: Sams are independents “There’s a desperate need for hous- whose votes the Liberal De- ing in the UK and I think Lenham is mocrat leadership relied just as valid as anywhere else to get upon to form its administra- some. tion in May. “It could be a good thing if done sensibly, and as long as there are Council plan schools, doctors and so on. The 900- home eco-village in Kingswood is an A DRAFT statement seen by interesting idea I agree with, being Downs Mail outlining the eco-friendly solutions. It just has to council’s position but with- be done in a sensible and well out naming Lenham says: thought-out way.” Manager of Lenham Village Lenham traders Claire Rickner “The ‘Call for Sites’ exercise Jan Mool (70), of West Wood Store, Jackie Haywood, said: “There and, below, Jackie Haywood is part of the review of the Lodge, said: “I am against it. There would be too many houses. The sur- Maidstone Borough Local isn’t any infrastructure and the geries suffer with the amount of Plan and is a statutory re- roads are already so congested. people they have to treat now – you quirement for the council. “No matter what we say they will can’t get an appointment for weeks. “At this stage, the council still go ahead and do it. Harrietsham I think the idea is to merge in with has been requesting informa- and Lenham will just be one big Harrietsham and become one big tion about land that may have town. It’s getting worse all the time. town. About 90% of our customers development potential. We are losing the essence of what a are regulars, but that won’t happen ”This ‘Call for Sites’ exer- village is and our voice is not going anymore with the additional houses. cise includes a prospectus for to be heard, whatever we try and do. The community spirit is dwindling.” ‘garden communities’. “Who are these homes for? It Raymond Rickner (78), of High “We can confirm that Maid- seems it’s all been decided behind Street said: “Lenham won’t be a vil- stone Borough Council itself closed doors, but they certainly lage anymore. It’s nice the way it is intends to put forward a pro- haven’t asked the residents how we now.” posal.” feel about it.” Reporting: Jade Schopman

22 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Appeal after Brexit Party could take fatal crash INVESTIGATORS are ap- pealing for information fol- lowing the death of an Kent seats in election unnamed Staplehurst man. The 60-year-old was a pas- THREE of our four local MPs break from the EU on October 31 senger in a car that was in- would lose their seats to the Brexit will neutralise the Brexit Party volved in a collision on the Party if a general election were to threat. A2 near Ebbsfleet on Tues- be called, according to the re- Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage, day, June 25. He died a day spected polling website Electoral pictured, told Downs Mail that he later at a London hospital. Calculus. expected parliamentary candidates Kent Police were called to Conservatives Helen Whately to be announced shortly. the scene, on the coast-bound (Faversham & Mid Kent), Helen He said: “It is a bit premature to carriageway, at about 4.20pm. Grant (Maidstone and the Weald) be talking about target seats in The collision was between and Tracey Crouch (Chatham & Kent but, yes, we will field candi- a blue Audi A4 and a black Aylesford) would leave parliament dates there and it will be serious. Infinity M35h, but officers while Tom Tugendhat (Tonbridge And, yes, that means Maidstone. say other vehicles that have and Malling) would hang on, ac- It’s all a bit up in the air.” not yet been identified may cording to the prediction service. Mr Johnson is widely tipped to also have been involved. All would see massive Tory ma- Electoral Calculus says that data become PM ahead of his challenger Police would also like to jorities wiped out, if the polls suggests the Conservatives would Jeremy Hunt by the end of July. hear from any drivers who proved correct. Only Mr Tugend- crash to just 87 seats from its pres- One local Tory activist told witnessed the collision, but hat would scrape back in, with a ent 313, while the Brexit Party Downs Mail: “Boris appears deter- have not yet come forward. majority of 2.4%. would take 193. Labour would mined to get us out by October 31. Witnesses can call the Seri- Electoral Calculus uses polling achieve 238, some 88 short of a “It is possible he will stumble be- ous Collision Investigation data, trends and analysis to reach working majority, and the Lib cause he won’t be able to renegoti- Unit on 01622 798 538 quoting its conclusions but does not take Dems 60. ate the deal. No deal can’t get 25-1172. into account local factors. The site says that a hung parlia- through parliament so it could be Alternatively, they can be Nationally, the Tories would pay ment is more likely than any other a short premiership. contacted by email at a heavy price for failing to leave the outcome at this stage. “The Brexit Party is a far better [email protected]. EU and for its internal ructions in Tory activists are hopeful a Boris run organisation than the shambles the past year, according to the site. Johnson premiership and a clean of Ukip so we should be worried.”

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Maidstone Weald July 2019 23 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Staffing crisis LATEST NHS figures show Maid- stone and the rest of West Kent pri- Travelling on horizon mary care workforce development is below the national average for GPs, nurses and direct patient care. There is a shortage of both GPs as radiographer retires and nurses, with concerns this will worsen, especially as 38% of GPs MAIDSTONE radiographer Christine Richards is looking forward to are aged 50 and over. The NHS Nursing and Quality spending time travelling after a career in medicine spanning 37 years. Care Education facilitator is now Christine retired at the end of working with West Kent’s Educa- May as the head of radiotherapy tion Network Training Hub and services at Maidstone and Tun- local universities. both to develop bridge Wells NHS Trust, which the existing workforce and create she joined in 1990. innovative new roles. During her early career, she West Kent is now able to provide travelled to America, Sweden and apprenticeships to primary care Norway to source state-of-the-art providers. equipment for the Trust, as well A key area of workforce growth as overseeing training for staff. in general practice is helping sur- The 68-year-old said: “I will geries to attract, recruit and sup- miss the people because it’s such port nurses new to primary care. a friendly atmosphere here. I’m also going to miss the patients, be- Dementia care cause being part of something A SPECIALIST NHS service to that is going to make such a dif- support local people with demen- ference to someone’s life is so re- tia and their families is about to be warding.” launched. Seven specialist nurses Christine twice won Radiogra- will work in West Kent with the pher of the Year as a member of Radiographer Christine Richards seven clusters formed of 55 GP the College of Radiographers and (above) and left, receiving her MBE has been at the forefront of proj- practices. from Prince Charles, in recognition ects to improve patient care and The aims are to increase the well- of her work with cancer patients being of patients, improve their shaping the Trust’s innovative quality of life and reduce waiting Radiotherapy Department. it really topped off my career. tions, including Italy and France. time for assessment and treatment. In June last year, she received “Everyone at MTW really re- Former radiotherapy planning This will include: education, an MBE from Prince Charles for spects one another and works as a manager Amanda Williams steps sleep advice, medication reviews, her services to cancer patients. team to help our patients and it into her role, after working with counselling, signposting relevant She said: “I’ve been fortunate in has been a real honour to work the Trust for 21 years. services (reducing waiting times) being able to achieve many things alongside them all for so many Amanda qualified as a radiog- and support for carers. and going to Buckingham Palace years.” rapher 27 years, ago after training to be awarded an MBE is some- She is now looking forward to as a therapeutic radiographer in Practice praise thing I never even dreamed of, so holidays in her favourite destina- Velindre Hospital, Cardiff. THE budget-holding NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Measles jabs Group has praised “the excellent HEALTH service teams are warn- achievement” of the leadership ing people to ensure they are pro- team at the Vine Medical Centre, tected against measles, with five Tonbridge Road, Maidstone. more confirmed cases in Kent. The team at this GP practice has Public Health England (PHE) received an outstanding rating South East says everyone needs to from the Care Quality Commission check they are up to date with two for being well led. It was com- doses of MMR vaccine and anyone mended for providing a culture concerned they have the condition that had shared purpose, motivat- should stay away from others. ing staff to succeed. The overall rating for the centre PHE spokesman Dr Rachel Pud- is good. Bearsted Medical Practice ney said: “If you’re concerned that received a similar rating. Hospital hits top 10 you or your child has measles, call DURING a period of seriously There was a significant improve- your GP or ring NHS 111.” Longer hours missed targets, especially on cancer ment in March towards the 85% investigations and treatments, target for patients receiving cancer Testing boost PATIENTS in Maidstone and the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells treatment within 62 days of an ur- KENT and Medway are support- rest of West Kent are welcoming Hospital Trust saw 95.7% of A&E gent GP referral. It hit 67.91% ing the creation of a single pathol- the longer hours now available in patients within four hours in March. compared with 56.02% in Febru- ogy service with clinically GP surgeries. West Kent Clinical Commission- ary. Early results of a survey show “a ing Group says: “This was a signifi- All patients waiting for 104 days appropriate turnaround times. clear preference for access to week- cant achievement and put them in and more are subject to a harm re- They say this will enable earlier day evening appointments from the top 10 best-performing emer- view. So far no harm has been iden- diagnostic services supporting bet- Monday to Thursday up to 8pm, gency departments in England.” tified. ter outcomes. There should also be and for Saturday morning access”. an NHS saving of more than £5m.

24 Maidstone Weald July 2019 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Staffing crisis LATEST NHS figures show Maid- Call for the stone and the rest of West Kent pri- Travelling on horizon mary care workforce development is below the national average for GPs, nurses and direct patient care. There is a shortage of both GPs as radiographer retires and nurses, with concerns this will worsen, especially as 38% of GPs MAIDSTONE radiographer Christine Richards is looking forward to are aged 50 and over. The NHS Nursing and Quality spending time travelling after a career in medicine spanning 37 years. C Prompt Care Education facilitator is now ollection Christine retired at the end of Looking for an experienced carer working with West Kent’s Educa- Fast May as the head of radiotherapy tion Network Training Hub and to help care for your loved ones? services at Maidstone and Tun- Delivery local universities. both to develop D.TD.T bridge Wells NHS Trust, which the existing workforce and create she joined in 1990. My name is Stacie and I work in and around Maidstone Weald innovative new roles. During her early career, she assisting clients and their families with all day-day needs. I have West Kent is now able to provide SKIP HIRE travelled to America, Sweden and SKIP HIRE apprenticeships to primary care been a carer for 7 years working along side nursing homes, EMI Norway to source state-of-the-art providers. Over 20 Years Experience units and with mental/ physical disabilities, I worked as a senior equipment for the Trust, as well A key area of workforce growth carer for 3 years in a dementia home. as overseeing training for staff. 01622 753618 in general practice is helping sur- The 68-year-old said: “I will geries to attract, recruit and sup- Fully DBS checked miss the people because it’s such port nurses new to primary care. T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 I hold a level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care a friendly atmosphere here. I’m Hold all applicable training certi cates also going to miss the patients, be- & 12 Yard Bins cause being part of something Refences from current clients can be requested Dementia care T Covering Maidstone Fully insured in my own vehicle A SPECIALIST NHS service to that is going to make such a dif- & The Weald support local people with demen- ference to someone’s life is so re- tia and their families is about to be warding.” T EA Registered I can assist with all day-day needs including: Christine twice won Radiogra- launched. Seven specialist nurses Shopping trips • Gp Visits pher of the Year as a member of Radiographer Christine Richards T Fast & Prompt Service will work in West Kent with the • All aspects of Personal care • Meal preparation seven clusters formed of 55 GP the College of Radiographers and (above) and left, receiving her MBE has been at the forefront of proj- T Commercial • General cleaning • Deep cleaning • Companionship practices. from Prince Charles, in recognition ects to improve patient care and & Domestic • Overnight stays • Family holiday cover The aims are to increase the well- of her work with cancer patients being of patients, improve their shaping the Trust’s innovative quality of life and reduce waiting Radiotherapy Department. it really topped off my career. tions, including Italy and France. For any general inquires, face to face meet and great or any time for assessment and treatment. In June last year, she received “Everyone at MTW really re- Former radiotherapy planning 01622 843511 questions you may have please feel free to contact me on This will include: education, an MBE from Prince Charles for spects one another and works as a manager Amanda Williams steps her services to cancer patients. team to help our patients and it into her role, after working with 01233 623721 Mobile: 07562759091 sleep advice, medication reviews, Email: [email protected] counselling, signposting relevant She said: “I’ve been fortunate in has been a real honour to work the Trust for 21 years. Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ services (reducing waiting times) being able to achieve many things alongside them all for so many Amanda qualified as a radiog- and support for carers. and going to Buckingham Palace years.” rapher 27 years, ago after training to be awarded an MBE is some- She is now looking forward to as a therapeutic radiographer in quote the thing I never even dreamed of, so holidays inMherefadvouwriteaydesti nBlinda- VelindresHo s&pita lCurtain, Cardiff. s Practice praise DO YOU NEED DOWNS THE budget-holding NHS West PLANNING PERMISSION OR MAIL Kent Clinical Commissioning Measles jabs Group has praised “the excellent HEALTH service teams are warn- BUILDING REGULATIONS FOR AN PLANT & achievement” of the leadership ing people to ensure they are pro- Accredited Hypnotherapy team at the Vine Medical Centre, tected against measles, with five EXTENSION, LOFT CONVERSION EQUIPMENT HIRE Tonbridge Road, Maidstone. more confirmed cases in Kent. The team at this GP practice has Public Health England (PHE) OR EVEN& NLP A BRAND Training NEW HOME? Diggers/Dumpers & Rollers received an outstanding rating South East says everyone needs to from the Care Quality Commission check they are up to date with two Towers & Ladders Lighting & Heating for being well led. It was com- Starting 7th September doses of MMR vaccine and anyone CALL US ON mended for providing a culture Breakers & Wackers Mixers & Sanders 0% concerned they have the condition Accredited Training in Hypnotherapy that had shared purpose, motivat- should stay away from others. 01622 812868 Powered Access & Cherry Pickers ing staff to succeed. Finance All other building tools & equipment including The overall rating for the centre Available PHE spokesman Dr Rachel Pud- is good. Bearsted Medical Practice ney said: “If you’re concerned that Also BusinessOR Coaching GO &TO De velopment garden & landscaping equipment received a similar rating. Hospital hits top 10 you or your child has measles, call Accredited by the Hypnotherapy Association DURING a period of seriously There was a significant improve- your GP or ring NHS 111.” www.johnchilds.com Longer hours missed targets, especially on cancer ment in March towards the 85% investigations and treatments, target for patients receiving cancer Testing boost PATIENTS in Maidstone and the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells treatment within0163462 days of an ur- 68 68 68 for our best prices EVER! KENT and Medway are support- rest of West Kent are welcoming Hospital Trust saw 95.7% of A&E gent GP referral. It hit 67.91% Call Patricia Whitson 07711140201 6 The Oaksin Bug thescinreaesstion o fVillaga single pea,th ol- the longer hours now available in patients within four hours in March. compared with 56.02% in Febru- ogy service with clinically Email [email protected] Lodge Road, Staplehurst GP surgeries. West Kent Clinical Commission- ary. Lordswood, Chatham Kent ME5 8LF Early results of a survey show “a appropriate turnaround times. www.kentcollegeofhypnotherapy.co.uk www.acornhire.com ing Group says: “This was a signifi- All patients waiting for 104 days For one to one sessions visit clear preference for access to week- cant achievement and put them in and more are subject to a harm re- They say this will enable earlier day evening appointments from the top 10 best-performing emer- view. So fawwwr no harm has.mbeen iedend- wdiaayblindgnostic services supspo.co.ukrting bet- www.mindconnections.co.uk. 01580 891234 Monday to Thursday up to 8pm, gency departments in England.” tified. ter outcomes. There should also be and for Saturday morning access”. an NHS saving of more than £5m. Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.00pm & Sat 7.30 - 1.00pm

Maidstone Weald July 2019 25

Maidstone Weald October 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk

O b i t u a r e s Alan Colegate before moving to Plymouth, Devon. charity responsible for the allotments on Gareth was married to Pamela for Old Loose Hill.” ALAN Colegate (73) lived in Upper Fant almost 60 years, and died just a few Hugh, who lost his wife seven years ago, Road for more than 40 years. months before their diamond wedding leaves his children and grandchildren Born in Maidstone, Alan a�ended anniversary. He was father to Beverley, Alexander, Eleanor, Toby and Amelia. Westborough School Gordon and David. and started work in Gordon said: “My father remained a Smedley’s canning proud Welshman to the end of his life. Reg Dancer factory, before People recall him as fair-minded, someone REGINALD Frederick James “Reg” becoming with a real sense of responsibility. apprenticed to Dancer (76) lived in the Road area “His passions included music and, of Maidstone from 1973, when his work as Goodsell and Sons as along with the Maidstone Symphony a carpenter and an electrical engineer for the Blue Circle Orchestra, he was a member of the Cement Company joiner. Rochester Arts Orchestra. He also played Alan’s career took brought him to Kent. rugby – including a spell at Saracens and Reg, from Essex, him thousands of playing for the Isle of Sheppey.” miles away, with spells working in Saudi was married to Mar- Gareth leaves his wife, children and garet for 49 years and Arabia and Libya. grandchildren Andrew and Rosie. Alan was married to Heather for 51 father to Andrew and years and father to Helen and Kevin. He Christopher. Andrew was taken ill whilst on holiday in Cyprus Hugh Laing said: “My father re- and died in a country that he loved. tired from Blue Circle Heather said: “Alan was a very hard HUGH Laing (80), of Loose, was born in in his late fifties but working, quiet and unassuming man in and moved to stayed active – he his later years. Earlier in his life, he had with his family, at the age of 10 months. was always using his skills to do DIY work boxed, more recently he was an avid He was involved in local politics, and for family and friends. follower of Grand Prix racing. served two terms as a Liberal Democrat “Many people will know him from “He was part of Barming life; and his councillor. decades of involvement with Maidstone skills were often called for when there was Hugh was a member of the Social Rugby Club. He played for their B team particularly difficult work to be done.” Democratic Party (SDP) in the 80s and for a few years and continued playing into Alan leaves Heather, his children, served as SDP chair for west Kent. his 60s with the veterans team. My father grandchildren Hannah, Daniel, Chloe, Hugh was married to Wendy for over 50 was a keen squash player and followed a Vicki and Ma� and great-grandchildren years and was father to Jamie, Fraser and number of sports including F1. We have James, Olivia, Ella, Brooke and Kyle. Jo. He worked as a group finance director had lots of tributes praising his determina- in the insurance industry for a company tion, big personality and loyalty.” on London Road in Maidstone and later Reg leaves his wife, sons and grandchil- Gareth Jones for G N Bishop in Tenterden. dren Aaron; Jamie; Blaze; Saskia; Noah; Jo said: “My father Orianna and Indie. GARETH Jones (83) was known from was passionate about years as a violinist with the Maidstone equality and that was Symphony Orchestra. central to his political Pamela White He lived locally from the late 50s to the campaigning. He PAMELA “Pam” Frances White (88) lived 90s, and worked as a primary school travelled the world teacher and head teacher. in from 1985. as president of the Born Pamela Durrant, she started work Born in Wales, Gareth moved to Institute of Financial Medway to work at for Kent County Accountants, Council at County Winston Primary including trips to the School, Chatham. He Hall in their vehicle Kremlin and China. licensing department served as head at His friends will remember his fantastic Winston from 1971 to in the days before the sense of humour, and we will remember DVLA. 1986, and as head him as a wonderful dad.” teacher at Tunbury Pam married Cyril Loose Parish Council’s tribute said: “He White and the couple Primary School, was instrumental in helping to obtain , from moved to Nyasaland funding to build the Loose Parish Pavilion, (now Malawi) and 1986 until 1991, in the mid-1990s. He also served as when he retired, Rhodesia (now Zim- chairman to the McAlpine Trust, the babwe), with his work in postal services. Pam was mother to Sarah, Steven and Claire. The family moved back to Sitting- bourne, but Cyril died after 18 years of Camrass Wills marriage and Pam moved to Grove Green. Advice you can trust As her children grew, she returned to work at County Hall, in an administration Do you need help with probate? role. Daughter Claire said: “My mother was widowed tragically early but still Do you want to buy a funeral plan? found meaning and purpose in her life through her love of gardening and her de- • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed votion to her grandchildren. She loved DipPFS MSWW ballroom dancing in her younger days” Pam leaves her children, grandchildren 01622 720985 Tom; James; Becky; Alex; Lauren; Joe; Ben; www.camrasswills.co.uk Anna and Bethany and three great- grandchildren.

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Maidstone Weald July 2019 27 downsmail.co.uk

P Drug dealing This was suspected in the seen carrying an air rifle, se�ing fires,

a r i s h Boughton Monchelsea woodland strip at Roman Way. Cllr drinking alcohol and driving quad bikes. Resignation It was noted that Cllr Peter Stevens had spoken to PCSO Neil Denny. PCSO Gardner had patrolled the area and Herrin had resigned. Members expressed It was agreed to contact the police. arranged for a sign to be put up warning

C their gratitude for his hard work, Dog waste Residents had asked for dog that the police were aware. Cllr o u n c i l s particularly in bringing the Parkwood waste bins at Langley Park. The clerk said Underdown had received a report of a call Farm reservoir scheme to fruition, and his there would be a country park on the site from an aggressive caller wanting trees cut involvement in highway ma�ers. in the future, which might be an down. Elections Cllr Munford was elected as appropriate place for bins. Bus pilot scheme The lack of chairman for the following year. Cllr Ellis Langley Park School Residents had communication from The Big Conversation was nominated as vice-chairman by Cllr expressed concern about the lack of was noted, as was the delay to the scheme Munford and his appointment was agreed. parking at the school. It was hoped that caused by the discovery of power cables Crime report There had been 10 reported parking would improve once building was underneath the proposed location of the crimes. In south ward there were two finished and roads were open. layby at the bus stop along Su�on Road. incidents of criminal damage; one Finger post Cllr Edmans said the sign in The clerk was asked to write to The Big burglary; a theft; an a�empted burglary The Quarries had been taken down and Conversation and Cllr Eric Hotson. and a shed break-in. In north ward there was in storage in the wood yard. The Textile bank The disappearance of the were two thefts and two break-ins. timbers were beyond repair but the bank was noted, following the clerk’s Lyewood Farm A resident queried footway le�ering could be used. The wood yard repeated requests for unpaid rent totalling arrangements on Green Lane. Cllr Smith had provided a quote for a new sign which £210. It was agreed to write this sum off. said Crest would be building a path from MBC had agreed to fund. Cllr Humphryes Dog bag dispenser This had been Old Tree Lane to the existing path. Crest agreed to paint the sign. delivered and it was agreed that it should Nicholson had submi�ed proposed road War memorial plaque It was agreed that be sited on the bus shelter next to the map. names to MBC. Members agreed that these the school plaque should be replicated and Football teams There were additional names should be rejected in favour of placed in the village hall foyer. The total clubs using the pitch this season. It was continuing the theme of using the names of cost of the plaque would be £1,246, but Cllr agreed that three new sets of keys would local people who lost their lives in WWI Munford had provided £500 from his be cut. Coxheath FC girls U11s wished to and WWII. The clerk would inform MBC. member fund. train on the pitch one evening a week Allotments A tenant thanked the parish during summer. A fee of £10 plus a £50 key council for the grant towards the new roof deposit was suggested. for the portacabin. The work was now Broomfield and Kingswood Trees The trees at the Memorial Playing complete. Field were discussed. It was agreed to ask Fete commi�ee Jen Cleaver thanked Parish event The event went very well with lots of positive feedback. Raffle proceeds Aspen Tree Services to pollard the diseased members for the grant which had been horse chestnut, to remove the overhanging used toward high-vis vests, flyers and hay would be shared between the Scouts and the playgroup. The event came in close to branches on a horse chestnut near the gate bales. The commi�ee was having to buy and to survey the remaining trees. new bunting at a cost of £50 as it had been budget. There was concern that photos taken at the parish event included pictures Flytipping Cllr Forknall reported some stolen last year. cases of flytipping. There were concerns Bins Coakley Cleaning had been engaged of children. Members of the public were advised that these were not taken on behalf that these might increase now that charges to empty five dog waste bins at a cost of had been brought in at recycling centres. £10 per bin per visit. Emptying would be of the parish council. Dogs control There was concern about the Parish walk A parishioner had reported on a fortnightly basis. that parish walk No 1 had access issues, Speed limit KCC were investigating the number of dogs that were unsupervised on the sports field and tied to the playground which had been reported to KCC. Cllr possibility of a temporary 20mph speed Waring was to walk all four parish walks limit on Green Lane to slow traffic heading railings. The parish council advised that there were notices around the field asking and report back. to and from the Lyewood Farm site. Roads The pothole next to the manhole Bus shelter grant The clerk was to apply that owners keep their dogs under control. It was agreed to look into pu�ing up a cover on Chart Hill Road had been for the KCC grant towards a replacement properly repaired. Highways were dealing bus shelter for Church Street. It was agreed hitching post away from the railings. Defibrillator Cllr Prendergast advised that with the road humps in Forsham Lane and that the shelter should be a traditional the collapsing bank in Green Lane. timber cantilever design with no sides or she would be happy to contribute to the cost of the defibrillator at the village hall Play area Wicksteed had provided an seating. amended quote for replacing the play area Allotment Cllr Martin thanked the clerk from her member’s grant. Kent Fire and Rescue might also be able to assist. equipment (up from £4,972 to £5,087) to for her work and said there was now only allow for secure storage and temporary one vacant half plot on the site. Once this Crime report A bicycle was stolen from outside a shop in Charlesford Avenue, but welfare facilities) although this could go up was filled, a waiting list would be again depending on the amount of wet maintained. Taylor Wimpey had asked later recovered. Youths threw a stone through the window of a building in pour repair necessary. It was agreed to whether the parish council would be accept the higher quote. willing to take over and manage the new Charlesford Avenue. The window of an allotment site at Langley Park. Cllr Audi A3 was smashed in the same road. Munford proposed that Cllr Ellis be given The windscreen of a Kia Picanto was Coxheath delegated powers to negotiate the freehold damaged, possibly with a pellet, in Tall of the site. Trees Close. Tributes A minute’s silence was observed Village hall The CCTV camera in the Li�er picking It was agreed that the RFO in the memory of former mayor Brian playground needed a tamper-proof cover should investigate the cost of li�er-picking Mortimer, who died recently. as it was pointing to the bench instead of equipment. Officers Cllr Clive Parker was re-elected as across the play area. VE Day The village hall had been booked chairman. Cllr Rodney Divall, vice- Parkwood Farm Cllr Redfearn said there for a VE Day celebration on May 10, 2020. chairman for many years, decided not to was still an amount of rubbish that needed Councillors were to consider what this stand. He was thanked for his support. Cllr to be cleared, downstream of the outfall. event might include. John Wilson was elected as vice-chairman. North ward Vegetation had been cut back Medical centre The practice manager of on the footpath at Joywood. KCC Cllr Gary Greensands said the lease for Orchard Cooke had been asked for double yellow Chart Su�on Medical Centre had been extended and lines at the junction of Joywood and Police report A vehicle had been damaged, both practices would remain open until the Brishing Lane to improve road safety. possibly with an air rifle. Youths had been new practice had been built.

28 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk

Defibrillator The parish council had but these were all exorbitant. This would P Staplehurst a r i s h applied to the British Heart Foundation for be pursued with MBC. a grant towards a community defibrillator. Garden competition Cllr Charlton had VE Day Cllrs Sharp and Spearing said they Highways Improvement plan This would obtained garden vouchers for prizes. would gauge interest in marking the 75th be completed with Kent Highways. anniversary with a community event. Cllr C Priorities included the western zebra Bowden would speak to the bellringers o u n c i l s crossing improvements, white lining and Langley group. other repairs. Biobli� Office staff had helped Medway Bus scheme It was noted that the new Li�er bins The parish council had bought Valley Countryside Partnership set up the number 13 bus pilot scheme seemed to be six mixed use li�er bins from MBC, to Wimpey Field Biobli�, which had been running, but no information had been replace the dog waste bins that had been very successful. received from KCC about timetables. The removed. An installation date had not yet Maintenance The caretaker had cleaned clerk would contact the Big Conversation been set. the Nicholson Walk gate and cleared team for further information, as well as Surgeries The community warden, Adam vegetation; repaired a bench at Wimpey timetables and posters. McKinley, would continue to hold Field; and removed a tree stump from Bell CCTV upgrade It was agreed to make a surgeries at Coxheath library at 10.30am on Lane Pond. There were complaints about financial contribution of £2,500 to the Mondays. A parish councillor would construction mess and out-of-hours project at the village hall. a�end when possible. activity at sites on Marden Road and VE Day 75 It was agreed to consider the Headcorn Road. MBC was a�ending to a hosting of a village picnic at the village fallen tree at Poyntell Pond. hall/recreation ground on Friday, May 8, Jubilee Field Staplehurst Monarchs had 2020. held an awards event. A plumbing leak Officers Cllr Glyn Charlton was elected as Play area Corrosion had been identified had been fixed and an expansion tank chairman and Cllr Peter Beasley was under a slide fixing, but the risk rating replaced in the pavilion. elected vice-chairman. remains as safe. Co-option Alexandra Fullwood was Li�er picks These had been set for interviewed and co-opted on to the parish August 2 and October 18, meeting at the West Farleigh council. village hall at 10.30am. Speed indicator An email had been Officers Cllr Sco� was elected chairman received about traffic issues in Dean and Cllr Martin was elected vice-chairman. Street and it was agreed to notify the Marden HGVs There was an increasing issue with resident that the moveable SID would be HGVs in Charlton Lane. It was agreed that located there. A second SID was on order Police report Six crimes had been this should be discussed at the meeting and a grant had been received from Cllr reported: two thefts from vehicles; three with Jennie Watson from KHS. Cllr Martin Stockell’s member’s fund, along with burglaries and an a�empted burglary. raised concerns about the Bridge £1,000 from the Fete Working Party. There were also two reports of anti-social area. HGVs seen deviating from the correct Defibrillator Cllr Beasley was waiting for behaviour. route should be reported to that company. a quote for the signs for the Gallants Lane Social media The website was being Lay-by parking The problem was ge�ing phonebox. He and Cllr Charlton were updated. The Twi�er account had been worse, with several cars parking in the lay- given delegated powers to pursue this. reactivated and it was agreed to set up an by. The possibility of signs saying Flood plan Cllr Beasley said the flood Instagram account. A flyer would be put residents’ parking only was discussed. pod could now be re-located to the Bull in the newsle�er asking for feedback on Community centre A solicitor was to look pub. The contents would be checked. methods of communication. in to the lease options and a meeting had John Wilson was happy to remain as Parking restrictions Maidstone Borough been held with the landowner. A meeting flood warden. Council said that due to the high number had been held with a planning officer who Traffic calming There was some of objections for Pa�enden Lane and West said the parish council would need to look dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of End area the proposed restrictions would into photocells on the roof. the scheme. Paul Leary, from KCC agreed be put to the Joint Transportation Board, Village green Twelve posts were needed at that they would see if tweaks could be but MBC would be recommending a cost of £114, possibly with a delivery made and would do further traffic approval. Cllr Tippen would draft a charge on top. It was agreed to approve surveys, at their expense. They would statement for the JTB. £150 so that the posts could be ordered. report back in July. In the meantime, the Sheephurst Lane Large lorries were taking Playground The flooring had been parish council was withholding payment. the soil from Marden to a development site repaired, the buffer on the gate replaced Dog bins The contractor who emptied in . The clerk was asked to and the by-law signs installed. The the dog bins had had to stop because of check the wording for the management contractor had recommended anti-wrap disposal problems and they were ge�ing plan for the developments at Bentle�s and swings. Cllr Merri� had cleaned and very full. The clerk had obtained quotes contact KCC. greased the swing.

TWO heavy duty gates were stolen and a C r i m e large amount of rubbish was dumped on a property in Brishing Lane, Boughton Neighbourhood Watch Monchelsea. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police r A caravan was broken into in Lower e p o r t s stolen in Gallants Lane, Coxheath. washer were stolen. Road, East Farleigh. Jewellery, cash, and An empty car trailer was stolen from An Audi Q3 estate parked in Waterside electronics were among items stolen. The Chegworth Road, Ulcombe. Mews, Ne�lestead was broken into. A tow ball lock was also removed. A house was broken into in Amsbury push chair was stolen from the boot. Four youths broke into school grounds in Road, Coxheath. A handbag was stolen Four construction machines were Boughton Lane, Boughton Monchelsea. and a grey Audi RS3, GC65***, was taken. damaged on a building site in Albion Road, They caused damage and stole items from Storage lockers at a property were Marden and about 350 gallons of diesel a shed and storage container. broken into in Ulcombe Hill, Ulcombe. A was stolen. Flats were broken into and lead was barbecue was amongst items stolen. Someone broke into a post office and stolen from the roof in Stocke� Lane, East An outbuilding at a commercial property tried to steal a safe in North Street, Marden. Farleigh. was broken into in Biddenden Road, Garden furniture was stolen from a A business was broken into and tools Headcorn. A trailer, tools and a pressure house in Babylon Lane, Su�on Valence.

Maidstone Weald July 2019 29 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk P P Drug dealing This was suspected in the seen carrying an air rifle, se�ing fires, Defibrillator The parish council had but these were all exorbitant. This would a r i s h a r i s h Boughton Monchelsea Staplehurst woodland strip at Roman Way. Cllr drinking alcohol and driving quad bikes. applied to the British Heart Foundation for be pursued with MBC. Resignation It was noted that Cllr Peter Stevens had spoken to PCSO Neil Denny. PCSO Gardner had patrolled the area and a grant towards a community defibrillator. Garden competition Cllr Charlton had VE Day Cllrs Sharp and Spearing said they Herrin had resigned. Members expressed It was agreed to contact the police. arranged for a sign to be put up warning Highways Improvement plan This would obtained garden vouchers for prizes. would gauge interest in marking the 75th C C their gratitude for his hard work, Dog waste Residents had asked for dog that the police were aware. Cllr be completed with Kent Highways. anniversary with a community event. Cllr o u n c i l s o u n c i l s particularly in bringing the Parkwood waste bins at Langley Park. The clerk said Underdown had received a report of a call Priorities included the western zebra Bowden would speak to the bellringers Farm reservoir scheme to fruition, and his there would be a country park on the site from an aggressive caller wanting trees cut crossing improvements, white lining and Langley group. involvement in highway ma�ers. in the future, which might be an down. other repairs. Biobli� Office staff had helped Medway Bus scheme It was noted that the new Elections Cllr Munford was elected as appropriate place for bins. Bus pilot scheme The lack of Li�er bins The parish council had bought Valley Countryside Partnership set up the number 13 bus pilot scheme seemed to be chairman for the following year. Cllr Ellis Langley Park School Residents had communication from The Big Conversation six mixed use li�er bins from MBC, to Wimpey Field Biobli�, which had been running, but no information had been was nominated as vice-chairman by Cllr expressed concern about the lack of was noted, as was the delay to the scheme replace the dog waste bins that had been very successful. received from KCC about timetables. The Munford and his appointment was agreed. parking at the school. It was hoped that caused by the discovery of power cables removed. An installation date had not yet Maintenance The caretaker had cleaned clerk would contact the Big Conversation Crime report There had been 10 reported parking would improve once building was underneath the proposed location of the been set. the Nicholson Walk gate and cleared team for further information, as well as crimes. In south ward there were two finished and roads were open. layby at the bus stop along Su�on Road. Surgeries The community warden, Adam vegetation; repaired a bench at Wimpey timetables and posters. incidents of criminal damage; one Finger post Cllr Edmans said the sign in The clerk was asked to write to The Big McKinley, would continue to hold Field; and removed a tree stump from Bell CCTV upgrade It was agreed to make a burglary; a theft; an a�empted burglary The Quarries had been taken down and Conversation and Cllr Eric Hotson. surgeries at Coxheath library at 10.30am on Lane Pond. There were complaints about financial contribution of £2,500 to the and a shed break-in. In north ward there was in storage in the wood yard. The Textile bank The disappearance of the Mondays. A parish councillor would construction mess and out-of-hours project at the village hall. were two thefts and two break-ins. timbers were beyond repair but the bank was noted, following the clerk’s a�end when possible. activity at sites on Marden Road and Lyewood Farm A resident queried footway le�ering could be used. The wood yard repeated requests for unpaid rent totalling VE Day 75 It was agreed to consider the Headcorn Road. MBC was a�ending to a arrangements on Green Lane. Cllr Smith had provided a quote for a new sign which £210. It was agreed to write this sum off. hosting of a village picnic at the village fallen tree at Poyntell Pond. said Crest would be building a path from MBC had agreed to fund. Cllr Humphryes Dog bag dispenser This had been East Farleigh hall/recreation ground on Friday, May 8, Jubilee Field Staplehurst Monarchs had Old Tree Lane to the existing path. Crest agreed to paint the sign. delivered and it was agreed that it should 2020. held an awards event. A plumbing leak Officers Cllr Glyn Charlton was elected as Nicholson had submi�ed proposed road War memorial plaque It was agreed that be sited on the bus shelter next to the map. Play area Corrosion had been identified had been fixed and an expansion tank chairman and Cllr Peter Beasley was names to MBC. Members agreed that these the school plaque should be replicated and Football teams There were additional under a slide fixing, but the risk rating replaced in the pavilion. elected vice-chairman. names should be rejected in favour of placed in the village hall foyer. The total clubs using the pitch this season. It was remains as safe. Co-option Alexandra Fullwood was continuing the theme of using the names of cost of the plaque would be £1,246, but Cllr agreed that three new sets of keys would Li�er picks These had been set for interviewed and co-opted on to the parish local people who lost their lives in WWI Munford had provided £500 from his be cut. Coxheath FC girls U11s wished to August 2 and October 18, meeting at the council. West Farleigh and WWII. The clerk would inform MBC. member fund. train on the pitch one evening a week village hall at 10.30am. Speed indicator An email had been Officers Cllr Sco� was elected chairman Allotments A tenant thanked the parish during summer. A fee of £10 plus a £50 key received about traffic issues in Dean and Cllr Martin was elected vice-chairman. council for the grant towards the new roof deposit was suggested. Street and it was agreed to notify the HGVs There was an increasing issue with for the portacabin. The work was now Trees The trees at the Memorial Playing Marden Broomfield and Kingswood resident that the moveable SID would be HGVs in Charlton Lane. It was agreed that complete. Field were discussed. It was agreed to ask Parish event The event went very well with located there. A second SID was on order Police report Six crimes had been this should be discussed at the meeting Fete commi�ee Jen Cleaver thanked Aspen Tree Services to pollard the diseased lots of positive feedback. Raffle proceeds and a grant had been received from Cllr reported: two thefts from vehicles; three with Jennie Watson from KHS. Cllr Martin members for the grant which had been horse chestnut, to remove the overhanging would be shared between the Scouts and Stockell’s member’s fund, along with burglaries and an a�empted burglary. raised concerns about the Teston Bridge used toward high-vis vests, flyers and hay branches on a horse chestnut near the gate the playgroup. The event came in close to £1,000 from the Fete Working Party. There were also two reports of anti-social area. HGVs seen deviating from the correct bales. The commi�ee was having to buy and to survey the remaining trees. budget. There was concern that photos Defibrillator Cllr Beasley was waiting for behaviour. route should be reported to that company. new bunting at a cost of £50 as it had been Flytipping Cllr Forknall reported some taken at the parish event included pictures a quote for the signs for the Gallants Lane Social media The website was being Lay-by parking The problem was ge�ing stolen last year. cases of flytipping. There were concerns of children. Members of the public were phonebox. He and Cllr Charlton were updated. The Twi�er account had been worse, with several cars parking in the lay- Bins Coakley Cleaning had been engaged that these might increase now that charges advised that these were not taken on behalf given delegated powers to pursue this. reactivated and it was agreed to set up an by. The possibility of signs saying to empty five dog waste bins at a cost of had been brought in at recycling centres. of the parish council. Flood plan Cllr Beasley said the flood Instagram account. A flyer would be put residents’ parking only was discussed. £10 per bin per visit. Emptying would be Parish walk A parishioner had reported Dogs control There was concern about the pod could now be re-located to the Bull in the newsle�er asking for feedback on Community centre A solicitor was to look on a fortnightly basis. that parish walk No 1 had access issues, number of dogs that were unsupervised on pub. The contents would be checked. methods of communication. in to the lease options and a meeting had Speed limit KCC were investigating the which had been reported to KCC. Cllr the sports field and tied to the playground John Wilson was happy to remain as Parking restrictions Maidstone Borough been held with the landowner. A meeting possibility of a temporary 20mph speed Waring was to walk all four parish walks railings. The parish council advised that Council said that due to the high number had been held with a planning officer who limit on Green Lane to slow traffic heading and report back. flood warden. there were notices around the field asking There was some of objections for Pa�enden Lane and West said the parish council would need to look to and from the Lyewood Farm site. Roads The pothole next to the manhole Traffic calming that owners keep their dogs under control. End area the proposed restrictions would into photocells on the roof. Bus shelter grant The clerk was to apply cover on Chart Hill Road had been dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of It was agreed to look into pu�ing up a be put to the Joint Transportation Board, Village green Twelve posts were needed at for the KCC grant towards a replacement properly repaired. Highways were dealing the scheme. Paul Leary, from KCC agreed hitching post away from the railings. but MBC would be recommending a cost of £114, possibly with a delivery bus shelter for Church Street. It was agreed with the road humps in Forsham Lane and that they would see if tweaks could be Defibrillator Cllr Prendergast advised that approval. Cllr Tippen would draft a charge on top. It was agreed to approve that the shelter should be a traditional the collapsing bank in Green Lane. made and would do further traffic she would be happy to contribute to the statement for the JTB. £150 so that the posts could be ordered. timber cantilever design with no sides or Play area Wicksteed had provided an surveys, at their expense. They would cost of the defibrillator at the village hall Sheephurst Lane Large lorries were taking Playground The flooring had been seating. amended quote for replacing the play area report back in July. In the meantime, the from her member’s grant. Kent Fire and the soil from Marden to a development site repaired, the buffer on the gate replaced Allotment Cllr Martin thanked the clerk equipment (up from £4,972 to £5,087) to parish council was withholding payment. Rescue might also be able to assist. in Collier Street. The clerk was asked to for her work and said there was now only allow for secure storage and temporary Dog bins The contractor who emptied and the by-law signs installed. The one vacant half plot on the site. Once this Crime report A bicycle was stolen from the dog bins had had to stop because of check the wording for the management contractor had recommended anti-wrap outside a shop in Charlesford Avenue, but welfare facilities) although this could go up was filled, a waiting list would be again depending on the amount of wet disposal problems and they were ge�ing plan for the developments at Bentle�s and swings. Cllr Merri� had cleaned and maintained. Taylor Wimpey had asked later recovered. Youths threw a stone very full. The clerk had obtained quotes contact KCC. greased the swing. through the window of a building in pour repair necessary. It was agreed to whether the parish council would be accept the higher quote. willing to take over and manage the new Charlesford Avenue. The window of an TWO heavy duty gates were stolen and a C r i m e Audi A3 was smashed in the same road. allotment site at Langley Park. Cllr large amount of rubbish was dumped on a The windscreen of a Kia Picanto was Munford proposed that Cllr Ellis be given property in Brishing Lane, Boughton Neighbourhood Watch damaged, possibly with a pellet, in Tall Coxheath delegated powers to negotiate the freehold Monchelsea. Trees Close. Tributes A minute’s silence was observed Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police r of the site. A caravan was broken into in Lower e p o r t s Li�er picking It was agreed that the RFO in the memory of former mayor Brian stolen in Gallants Lane, Coxheath. washer were stolen. Village hall The CCTV camera in the Road, East Farleigh. Jewellery, cash, and should investigate the cost of li�er-picking Mortimer, who died recently. An empty car trailer was stolen from An Audi Q3 estate parked in Waterside playground needed a tamper-proof cover electronics were among items stolen. The as it was pointing to the bench instead of equipment. Officers Cllr Clive Parker was re-elected as Chegworth Road, Ulcombe. Mews, Ne�lestead was broken into. A tow ball lock was also removed. across the play area. VE Day The village hall had been booked chairman. Cllr Rodney Divall, vice- A house was broken into in Amsbury push chair was stolen from the boot. Parkwood Farm Cllr Redfearn said there for a VE Day celebration on May 10, 2020. chairman for many years, decided not to Four youths broke into school grounds in Road, Coxheath. A handbag was stolen Four construction machines were was still an amount of rubbish that needed Councillors were to consider what this stand. He was thanked for his support. Cllr Boughton Lane, Boughton Monchelsea. and a grey Audi RS3, GC65***, was taken. damaged on a building site in Albion Road, to be cleared, downstream of the outfall. event might include. John Wilson was elected as vice-chairman. They caused damage and stole items from Storage lockers at a property were Marden and about 350 gallons of diesel North ward Vegetation had been cut back Medical centre The practice manager of a shed and storage container. broken into in Ulcombe Hill, Ulcombe. A was stolen. on the footpath at Joywood. KCC Cllr Gary Greensands said the lease for Orchard Flats were broken into and lead was barbecue was amongst items stolen. Someone broke into a post office and Cooke had been asked for double yellow Chart Su�on Medical Centre had been extended and stolen from the roof in Stocke� Lane, East An outbuilding at a commercial property tried to steal a safe in North Street, Marden. lines at the junction of Joywood and Police report A vehicle had been damaged, both practices would remain open until the Farleigh. was broken into in Biddenden Road, Garden furniture was stolen from a Brishing Lane to improve road safety. possibly with an air rifle. Youths had been new practice had been built. A business was broken into and tools Headcorn. A trailer, tools and a pressure house in Babylon Lane, Su�on Valence.

28 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk P P Drug dealing This was suspected in the seen carrying an air rifle, se�ing fires, Defibrillator The parish council had but these were all exorbitant. This would a r i s h a r i s h Boughton Monchelsea Staplehurst woodland strip at Roman Way. Cllr drinking alcohol and driving quad bikes. applied to the British Heart Foundation for be pursued with MBC. Resignation It was noted that Cllr Peter Stevens had spoken to PCSO Neil Denny. PCSO Gardner had patrolled the area and a grant towards a community defibrillator. Garden competition Cllr Charlton had VE Day Cllrs Sharp and Spearing said they Herrin had resigned. Members expressed It was agreed to contact the police. arranged for a sign to be put up warning Highways Improvement plan This would obtained garden vouchers for prizes. would gauge interest in marking the 75th C C their gratitude for his hard work, Dog waste Residents had asked for dog that the police were aware. Cllr be completed with Kent Highways. anniversary with a community event. Cllr o u n c i l s o u n c i l s particularly in bringing the Parkwood waste bins at Langley Park. The clerk said Underdown had received a report of a call Priorities included the western zebra Bowden would speak to the bellringers Farm reservoir scheme to fruition, and his there would be a country park on the site from an aggressive caller wanting trees cut crossing improvements, white lining and Langley group. involvement in highway ma�ers. in the future, which might be an down. other repairs. Biobli� Office staff had helped Medway Bus scheme It was noted that the new Elections Cllr Munford was elected as appropriate place for bins. Bus pilot scheme The lack of Li�er bins The parish council had bought Valley Countryside Partnership set up the number 13 bus pilot scheme seemed to be chairman for the following year. Cllr Ellis Langley Park School Residents had communication from The Big Conversation six mixed use li�er bins from MBC, to Wimpey Field Biobli�, which had been running, but no information had been was nominated as vice-chairman by Cllr expressed concern about the lack of was noted, as was the delay to the scheme replace the dog waste bins that had been very successful. received from KCC about timetables. The Munford and his appointment was agreed. parking at the school. It was hoped that caused by the discovery of power cables removed. An installation date had not yet Maintenance The caretaker had cleaned clerk would contact the Big Conversation Crime report There had been 10 reported parking would improve once building was underneath the proposed location of the been set. the Nicholson Walk gate and cleared team for further information, as well as crimes. In south ward there were two finished and roads were open. layby at the bus stop along Su�on Road. Surgeries The community warden, Adam vegetation; repaired a bench at Wimpey timetables and posters. incidents of criminal damage; one Finger post Cllr Edmans said the sign in The clerk was asked to write to The Big McKinley, would continue to hold Field; and removed a tree stump from Bell CCTV upgrade It was agreed to make a burglary; a theft; an a�empted burglary The Quarries had been taken down and Conversation and Cllr Eric Hotson. surgeries at Coxheath library at 10.30am on Lane Pond. There were complaints about financial contribution of £2,500 to the and a shed break-in. In north ward there was in storage in the wood yard. The Textile bank The disappearance of the Mondays. A parish councillor would construction mess and out-of-hours project at the village hall. were two thefts and two break-ins. timbers were beyond repair but the bank was noted, following the clerk’s a�end when possible. activity at sites on Marden Road and Lyewood Farm A resident queried footway le�ering could be used. The wood yard repeated requests for unpaid rent totalling VE Day 75 It was agreed to consider the Headcorn Road. MBC was a�ending to a arrangements on Green Lane. Cllr Smith had provided a quote for a new sign which £210. It was agreed to write this sum off. hosting of a village picnic at the village fallen tree at Poyntell Pond. said Crest would be building a path from MBC had agreed to fund. Cllr Humphryes Dog bag dispenser This had been East Farleigh hall/recreation ground on Friday, May 8, Jubilee Field Staplehurst Monarchs had Old Tree Lane to the existing path. Crest agreed to paint the sign. delivered and it was agreed that it should 2020. held an awards event. A plumbing leak Officers Cllr Glyn Charlton was elected as Nicholson had submi�ed proposed road War memorial plaque It was agreed that be sited on the bus shelter next to the map. Play area Corrosion had been identified had been fixed and an expansion tank chairman and Cllr Peter Beasley was names to MBC. Members agreed that these the school plaque should be replicated and Football teams There were additional under a slide fixing, but the risk rating replaced in the pavilion. elected vice-chairman. names should be rejected in favour of placed in the village hall foyer. The total clubs using the pitch this season. It was remains as safe. Co-option Alexandra Fullwood was continuing the theme of using the names of cost of the plaque would be £1,246, but Cllr agreed that three new sets of keys would Li�er picks These had been set for interviewed and co-opted on to the parish local people who lost their lives in WWI Munford had provided £500 from his be cut. Coxheath FC girls U11s wished to August 2 and October 18, meeting at the council. West Farleigh and WWII. The clerk would inform MBC. member fund. train on the pitch one evening a week village hall at 10.30am. Speed indicator An email had been Officers Cllr Sco� was elected chairman Allotments A tenant thanked the parish during summer. A fee of £10 plus a £50 key received about traffic issues in Dean and Cllr Martin was elected vice-chairman. council for the grant towards the new roof deposit was suggested. Street and it was agreed to notify the HGVs There was an increasing issue with for the portacabin. The work was now Trees The trees at the Memorial Playing Marden Broomfield and Kingswood resident that the moveable SID would be HGVs in Charlton Lane. It was agreed that complete. Field were discussed. It was agreed to ask Parish event The event went very well with located there. A second SID was on order Police report Six crimes had been this should be discussed at the meeting Fete commi�ee Jen Cleaver thanked Aspen Tree Services to pollard the diseased lots of positive feedback. Raffle proceeds and a grant had been received from Cllr reported: two thefts from vehicles; three with Jennie Watson from KHS. Cllr Martin members for the grant which had been horse chestnut, to remove the overhanging would be shared between the Scouts and Stockell’s member’s fund, along with burglaries and an a�empted burglary. raised concerns about the Teston Bridge used toward high-vis vests, flyers and hay branches on a horse chestnut near the gate the playgroup. The event came in close to £1,000 from the Fete Working Party. There were also two reports of anti-social area. HGVs seen deviating from the correct bales. The commi�ee was having to buy and to survey the remaining trees. budget. There was concern that photos Defibrillator Cllr Beasley was waiting for behaviour. route should be reported to that company. new bunting at a cost of £50 as it had been Flytipping Cllr Forknall reported some taken at the parish event included pictures a quote for the signs for the Gallants Lane Social media The website was being Lay-by parking The problem was ge�ing stolen last year. cases of flytipping. There were concerns of children. Members of the public were phonebox. He and Cllr Charlton were updated. The Twi�er account had been worse, with several cars parking in the lay- Bins Coakley Cleaning had been engaged that these might increase now that charges advised that these were not taken on behalf given delegated powers to pursue this. reactivated and it was agreed to set up an by. The possibility of signs saying to empty five dog waste bins at a cost of had been brought in at recycling centres. of the parish council. Flood plan Cllr Beasley said the flood Instagram account. A flyer would be put residents’ parking only was discussed. £10 per bin per visit. Emptying would be Parish walk A parishioner had reported Dogs control There was concern about the pod could now be re-located to the Bull in the newsle�er asking for feedback on Community centre A solicitor was to look on a fortnightly basis. that parish walk No 1 had access issues, number of dogs that were unsupervised on pub. The contents would be checked. methods of communication. in to the lease options and a meeting had Speed limit KCC were investigating the which had been reported to KCC. Cllr the sports field and tied to the playground John Wilson was happy to remain as Parking restrictions Maidstone Borough been held with the landowner. A meeting possibility of a temporary 20mph speed Waring was to walk all four parish walks railings. The parish council advised that Council said that due to the high number had been held with a planning officer who limit on Green Lane to slow traffic heading and report back. flood warden. there were notices around the field asking There was some of objections for Pa�enden Lane and West said the parish council would need to look to and from the Lyewood Farm site. Roads The pothole next to the manhole Traffic calming that owners keep their dogs under control. End area the proposed restrictions would into photocells on the roof. Bus shelter grant The clerk was to apply cover on Chart Hill Road had been dissatisfaction with the effectiveness of It was agreed to look into pu�ing up a be put to the Joint Transportation Board, Village green Twelve posts were needed at for the KCC grant towards a replacement properly repaired. Highways were dealing the scheme. Paul Leary, from KCC agreed hitching post away from the railings. but MBC would be recommending a cost of £114, possibly with a delivery bus shelter for Church Street. It was agreed with the road humps in Forsham Lane and that they would see if tweaks could be Defibrillator Cllr Prendergast advised that approval. Cllr Tippen would draft a charge on top. It was agreed to approve that the shelter should be a traditional the collapsing bank in Green Lane. made and would do further traffic she would be happy to contribute to the statement for the JTB. £150 so that the posts could be ordered. timber cantilever design with no sides or Play area Wicksteed had provided an surveys, at their expense. They would cost of the defibrillator at the village hall Sheephurst Lane Large lorries were taking Playground The flooring had been seating. amended quote for replacing the play area report back in July. In the meantime, the from her member’s grant. Kent Fire and the soil from Marden to a development site repaired, the buffer on the gate replaced Allotment Cllr Martin thanked the clerk equipment (up from £4,972 to £5,087) to parish council was withholding payment. Rescue might also be able to assist. in Collier Street. The clerk was asked to for her work and said there was now only allow for secure storage and temporary Dog bins The contractor who emptied and the by-law signs installed. The one vacant half plot on the site. Once this Crime report A bicycle was stolen from the dog bins had had to stop because of check the wording for the management contractor had recommended anti-wrap outside a shop in Charlesford Avenue, but welfare facilities) although this could go up was filled, a waiting list would be again depending on the amount of wet disposal problems and they were ge�ing plan for the developments at Bentle�s and swings. Cllr Merri� had cleaned and maintained. Taylor Wimpey had asked later recovered. Youths threw a stone very full. The clerk had obtained quotes contact KCC. greased the swing. through the window of a building in pour repair necessary. It was agreed to whether the parish council would be accept the higher quote. willing to take over and manage the new Charlesford Avenue. The window of an TWO heavy duty gates were stolen and a C r i m e Audi A3 was smashed in the same road. allotment site at Langley Park. Cllr large amount of rubbish was dumped on a The windscreen of a Kia Picanto was Munford proposed that Cllr Ellis be given property in Brishing Lane, Boughton Neighbourhood Watch damaged, possibly with a pellet, in Tall Coxheath delegated powers to negotiate the freehold Monchelsea. Trees Close. Tributes A minute’s silence was observed Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police r of the site. A caravan was broken into in Lower e p o r t s Li�er picking It was agreed that the RFO in the memory of former mayor Brian stolen in Gallants Lane, Coxheath. washer were stolen. Village hall The CCTV camera in the Road, East Farleigh. Jewellery, cash, and should investigate the cost of li�er-picking Mortimer, who died recently. An empty car trailer was stolen from An Audi Q3 estate parked in Waterside playground needed a tamper-proof cover electronics were among items stolen. The as it was pointing to the bench instead of equipment. Officers Cllr Clive Parker was re-elected as Chegworth Road, Ulcombe. Mews, Ne�lestead was broken into. A tow ball lock was also removed. across the play area. VE Day The village hall had been booked chairman. Cllr Rodney Divall, vice- A house was broken into in Amsbury push chair was stolen from the boot. Parkwood Farm Cllr Redfearn said there for a VE Day celebration on May 10, 2020. chairman for many years, decided not to Four youths broke into school grounds in Road, Coxheath. A handbag was stolen Four construction machines were was still an amount of rubbish that needed Councillors were to consider what this stand. He was thanked for his support. Cllr Boughton Lane, Boughton Monchelsea. and a grey Audi RS3, GC65***, was taken. damaged on a building site in Albion Road, to be cleared, downstream of the outfall. event might include. John Wilson was elected as vice-chairman. They caused damage and stole items from Storage lockers at a property were Marden and about 350 gallons of diesel North ward Vegetation had been cut back Medical centre The practice manager of a shed and storage container. broken into in Ulcombe Hill, Ulcombe. A was stolen. on the footpath at Joywood. KCC Cllr Gary Greensands said the lease for Orchard Flats were broken into and lead was barbecue was amongst items stolen. Someone broke into a post office and Cooke had been asked for double yellow Chart Su�on Medical Centre had been extended and stolen from the roof in Stocke� Lane, East An outbuilding at a commercial property tried to steal a safe in North Street, Marden. lines at the junction of Joywood and Police report A vehicle had been damaged, both practices would remain open until the Farleigh. was broken into in Biddenden Road, Garden furniture was stolen from a Brishing Lane to improve road safety. possibly with an air rifle. Youths had been new practice had been built. A business was broken into and tools Headcorn. A trailer, tools and a pressure house in Babylon Lane, Su�on Valence.

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T.01622 01622 630330 630330 T.T. 01622 01622 630330 630330 ext.ext. 224 224 ext.ext. 227 227 ext.ext. 234 234 ContactContact our our sales sales team… team… ApplianceAppliance Repairs Repairs CarpentersCarpenters Contact our salesNatashaNatasha team… Bastone Bastone TeresaTeresa Jeffery Jeffery RebeccaRebecca Abbott Abbott Telesales Manager Contact our sales team…Classified Sales Executive Classified Sales Executive Contact our sales team… Contact our salesTelesales team… Manager Classified Sales Executive Classified Sales Executive ALLALL DOMESTIC DOMESTIC APPLIANCE APPLIANCEE:NatashaE: natasha@ natasha@ BastoneFindFind your your local local TeresaE:E: teresa@ teresa@ Jeffery RebeccaE:E: rebecca.abbott rebecca.abbott Abbott downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk @downsmail.co.uk REPAIRREPAIR SERVICE SERVICETelesalesdownsmail.co.uk Manager tradestrades people peopleNatashaClassifieddownsmail.co.uk Bastone SalesWoodWood Executive Works WorksTeresaClassified [email protected] Sales Executive Rebecca Abbott Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery T. 01622 Rebecca630330 Abbott T. 01622 630330 withwith fully fully qualified qualified engineer engineerT.NatashaE:T. 01622 natasha@01622 630330 630330 Bastone TelesalesTeresaE:T. teresa@ Manager 01622 Jeffery 630330 ClassifiedRebeccaE: Sales rebecca.abbottT. 01622Carpentry Executive Abbott 630330 Classified Sales Executive Telesales Manager ext. 224Classified Sales Executive ext. 227ClassifiedFULL Sales Executive CARPENTRY Carpentryext. 234 AllAll makes makes of ofwashing washing machines, machines,Telesalesdownsmail.co.ukext. 224 Manager BusinessesBusinesses & & Services ServicesClassifieddownsmail.co.ukext. 227 Sales ExecutiveFULL CARPENTRY Classifi[email protected]. 234 Sales Executive E: natasha@ fridges,fridges, freezers, freezers, vacuum vacuum cleaners, cleaners,E: teresa@ E: natasha@ E: rebecca.abbott E: teresa@ AllAll aspects aspects of ofCARPENTRY CARPENTRY E: rebecca.abbott E: natasha@ downsmail.co.ukE: teresa@ SERVICESERVICE FROM FROM downsmail.co.ukE: rebecca.abbott @downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.ukt/dryers,t/dryers, dishwashers, dishwashers, elec elec ovens.T. ovens.01622downsmail.co.uk 630330 onon the the Downs Downs Mail Mail T. 01622Reach [email protected] up to 80,000 householdsT. 01622 630330 every month downsmail.co.ukext. 224 downsmail.co.ukext. 227 DECKINGDECKING TO TO DOORS, DOORS, @downsmail.co.ukext.Doors,Doors, 234 Windows, Windows, Kitchens Kitchens supplied supplied and and 01622  All work guaranteed 630 330 directorydirectoryT. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 ApplianceApplianceAll work guaranteed Repairs RepairsT. 01622 T. 01622630330 630330 T. 01622 630330T. 01622 630330 CarpentersCarpentersT. 01622fitted, fitted, 630330 Loft Loft Conversions, Conversions, Doors Doors hung, hung, ext. 224  Free Free estimates estimates and and call call out outext. 227 ext. 224 ext.KITCHENS 234KITCHENS & & FLOORS. 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409061availableKevin Bovis BovisavailablePest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark0162207748 07841 891960630747 409061 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk01622 891960 WeddingsWeddings attendedattended e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Camerae: [email protected] inspections available 07748 630747Building PlansCamerawww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk07748 inspections 630747 availableWeddings attended Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukBuilding Plans MemberMember01622www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk01622 ofof844385 844385 thethe ICSICS Building Plans Weddings attended Weddings attended Building PlansWeddings attended MemberHETASHETAS0788507885 approved approvedof 651578 651578the ICS Building PlansMember of theBuilding ICS PlansMemberHETAS approved of the ICS Member of the ICS Building Plans [email protected]@gmail.com KevinKevin BovisBovis HETAS approved HETASContact approved Kevin BovisHETAS approved 0162201622 844385844385 3838 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald October October 2017 2017Contact Kevin BovisContact01622 844385 Kevin Bovis Contact Kevin Bovis 016220788507885 844385 651578651578 01622 844385 [email protected]@gmail.com 651578 01622 844385 [email protected] 30 Maidstone Weald July 2019 07885 651578 07885 651578 07885 651578 [email protected] 3838 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald October October 2017 [email protected] [email protected] 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Maidstone Weald December 2017 39 Sales Sales&Services Services& downsmail.co.uk Classified All servicing work Cleaning Services undertaken, Garden Services Ltd diagnostics, mechanical and "WE CLEAN T Tree bodywork repairs, OVENS!" 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GREG LAURENSONPaving & Patios Hedge Cutting & Reductions E:30 [email protected] years experience in Fully Insured & Qualified • Bathroom & kitchen installations • EXTENSIONS • PORCHES • GARDENRe-shaping, WALLS Crown • PATIOS reduction, • RE-POINTING Sectional PAINTING & DECORATINGRaised Beds PROPERTYPaddock SERVICES Maintenance Painting & decoratingwww.maidstonelandscapes.com / Electrics & plumbing Tel: 01580 438004 Garden & Site Clearance Pressure Washing LOOK: Pleasefelling check ofour dangerous/dying reviews and other trees, stump Fencing• Painting & decorating • CHIMNEY REPAIRS • CONSERVATORY BASES • STONE WALLS e: [email protected] Extensionscompanies & you loft may use Grinding,conversions at www.uktc.org Site Clearance. Interior & Exterior Workwww.lucaslandscapemaintenance.co.ukCommercial & Domestic Gardening• Plastering Services • PlumbingMaidstone • CONCRETING Established• DRAINAGE 1990Hedges • BLOCK Director: topped PAVING M Potter and • ROOFING shaped, Logs ALL TYPES – All•RESTORATION handyman jobs WORK covered • PROPERTY nosupplied. matter MAINTENANCE Fully how Insured small. Free Quotes Reliable Quality Service REPAIR/RENEW & Malling’s DS LANDSCAPESFree Quotations GardeningCITY & GUILDSFree and quote small OVER up trees. to 2025 Outside mileYEARS radius guttering EXPERIENCE of Charing & UPVC Est. 25 YEARS fascia's plus small roofsLocksmith and the erecting of sheds. [email protected] FREEGARDENING ESTIMATES - FENCING - LANDSCAPINGCall BobNo. on 1 newspaper Telephone: 07720FREE ESTIMATES 034149 &or ADVICE 01233 611939 01622 809840 - 07387 816196 PHONE SHAUN: 01622 679618 • MOB: 07889 903590 01622 232860 07931 368710 George 07740 347 596 / 07957 103 203 01622 762164 07941 703193 FOR A RELIABLE & FRIENDLY SERVICE 07870 271 077 www.iwallondfencingcontractors.co.uk FAIRVIEW FARM Est. in 1993 TREE MAINTENANCE & GARDEN SERVICES  24 hour service  locks opened  new locks fitted  security checks MD Building & Services  emergency work undertaken  UPVC door & window repairs for a helping hand with:- Home Improvements and Fence me in & alot more @ SpindlebushTREE SURGERY: Farm, T: 01622All 755750 types ofM: Ha07738rd & 658751 Soft LandscaMaidstonepes & Kent Specialists in CROWN REDUCTION, FELLING, All types of Hard & Soft Landscapes • Extensions S•u Plasteringpplies Ltd (All aspects) MARSHALLSAll types of Fencing & Gates Hill, ME18 6AL 3 Plains Avenue, Maidstone ME15 7AT www.yourmaidstonelocksmith.co.uk Installed & Repairs PRUNING, HEDGE & SHRUB - •• Patiotioss,, Paving Roads & Drriives •• Concrrette Bases & Stabletable BasesBases • RefurbishmentsKitchens / Be• drElectricsooms/ Bath • Modernisationsrooms / TRIMMING, CLEARANCE AllT AspectsSeasoned of Garden Services, logs Landscapes, suitable for •• Fencing & Gattes •• •• JunglesJungles CleaClearred • KitchenKarndean & F Bathroomlooring (suppl Installationsy / supply SEASONED LOGS SUPPLIED, Brand New Straight Stairlifts Next day and install / install only) Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. MOWING (lawns) Logs • Driveways, Patios & Repointing • Fencing & Blockpaving openRegular Contracts, fires Lawn & Mowing, wood stoves FULLY INSURED installation see www.installationgallery.co.uk to see (City & Guilds Reconditioned Stairlifts FULLY INSURED Hedge Cutting etc. NPTC qualified) T Bulk bags from £55 For a friendly & RING PAUL ON a gallery of our previous installations. Call Colin on 07521 professional service & advice Tel No: 01622 756128RING PMobile:AUL ON 07905 182363 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 T Loose loads: £100 deliveredPlease call:- 01622 743428 01622 844605– LOGS or 07767 683747– Very competitively priced against 377306 or 01622 853978 www.stairliftstoday.co.uk01622 844605 or 07767 683747 email: [email protected] Suppliers Mob:- 07817 517 733 ffor frreeee estimestimaattee.. or £125 [email protected] seasoned apple logs www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukMobile No: 07855 466438 DAVID WYNN 49 West Park Road, Maidstone,£100 Kent, load ME15 – £125 7AF load Tel No: 0800 1804590 01622 812005 07970 647334 Call us today to request your FREE, no obligation, home survey. GREEN MAN Any moisture test welcome on delivery. Based in Maidstone Tree & Garden Services Also other hardwoods available TREE SURGERY LTD FREE DELIVERY – FREE STACKING SERVICE Rolin Cleaning Services Hedge cutting MD Building & Services Marchant Garden Services Call Maidstone office: 01622 813750 • Wood FloorCA SandingLL U S ON: Traditional Specialists in or Mobile: 07854 615687 and Oiling services Adrian Marchant Hedge laying • Full• Roof Extensions Installation • Plastering • Tiling (All & Slateaspects) Roofing 01622 920642 • Refurbishments• UPVC • Fascias Electrics & Soffits• Modernisations • Family run business Fencing • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations [email protected] - Tree Surgeon • Chimney Re pointing or Removal • Fully insured Landscaping • Driveways, Patios & Repointing • Fencing & Blockpaving 01732 872199 www.landlcreativespaces.co.uk www.wrightsfencing.co.ukN.P.T.C. Qualified • Fully Insured • CallRoofing our Repairs sales & teamMaintenance now - • Trained Technicians Free estimates & advice - Fully insured FULLY INSURED • Hedgecutting & Fencing 07860• DECKING 100295 • FENCINGby • PallmannARTIFICIAL GRASS • HARD Tel: 01622 892244 Tel:www.apolloroofing.co.uk Mark 07841 409061 No1 Locally SinceOffham 1996 Nr West Malling 01622 630 330 [email protected] • FIRST rolincleaningservices.co.uk FIX PROJECTS • SPECIALIST IN Mobile: 07732 768331 07808email: [email protected] 414965 or 01622 853601 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT • BESPOKE GARDEN 07932 492897 01732 841041 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukCall for a free no obligation quote PROJECTS • SAFETY SURFACING Maidstone Weald October 2017 39 Mid Kent Living 59

GLAZING REPA 66 Mid Kent Living BLE IR M A1Roofing ServicesMaidstone Weald July 2019 31 DOU BEARSTED AN Misted Sealed Units Door Handles Broken Glass • TILED ROOFING • FLAT ROOFING MKL_Winter_2019 CLASSIFIED.indd 66 14/03/2019 11:14 Door Locks Window Handles Letter Boxes • LEAD FLASHING • PVC FASCIA / SOFFITS Broken Hinges New Doors New Windows • FULL REPAIR SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Tel: 01622 296011 For a prompt reliable service 07808 849432 or 01622 738683 Mob: 07884 180595 Email: [email protected]

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

Mid Kent Living 63 Classified downsmail.co.uk Water Services continued Public Notices On the Road 01233 840624 [email protected] PUBLIC NOTICE LICENSING ACT 2003 An application has been made by Mr Babu Sivarajah for the premises at Unit 2 and 3, Phase 3, Wallis Avenue, Maidstone, Kent ME15 9HS on the date of 04 July 2019. Summary of the proposed licensable activities and the proposed hours of opening are: Sale of alcohol o the premises, Monday to Saturday between 06:00 to 23:00 hours and Sunday between 07:00 to 22.00 hours for the premises known as Unit 2 and 3, Phase 3, Wallis Avenue, Maidstone, Kent ME15 9HS. Any person wishing to view details of an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on 01732 227 004. The largest independently owned liquid Any person wishing to make representations about the application should make them in writing on or waste management company in the UK before 05 August 2019. • MOT • Servicing • Repairs • Cambelts www.mtscleansing.co.uk Licensing Partnership, PO Box 182, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1GP • Clutches • Springs and Shocks [email protected] http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing • Diagnostics • Air Conditioning • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys It is an o ence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application. The • Drain & sewer cleaning • CesspoolClassified & septic tank services downsmail.co.ukmaximumRecruitment ne for which a person is liable continued on summary of conviction for the o ence is £5,000. • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & floodingWeb Design solutions

downsmail.co.uk Tyres • Exhausts • Tracking • Waste disposal & recyclingt mes every month Come and join our friendly sales Maidstone & Malling’s MOTORCYCLES WANTED No. 1 newspaper Four editions delivered to over 88,000 ho FREE 31 Malling Edition 6 No. 2 team and share in our success. July 201 South | Malling News all e East | Maidstone Better buses c on to get EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS are urging acti rom own | Maidston PARENTS l bus services f better schoo est 3 Maidstone T Kings Hill and W n- ng. Show e Malli County d E Kent her an ed TH weat - v d fine e show xes sa joye ds at th mail.co.uk er crow Phone bo e come up with downs ump g. v Classified b etlin GERS ha n D heir We are currently recruiting a ounds i 0 VILLA ining t 4 gr 80,00 reta re than on ways of Mo ,000 up , over 3 of red phone boxes. visitors ded one r, atten nts. ast yea est eve as l y’s bigg rs e count llholde th tors, sta ompeti e from An early Chirni stm C ses cam es- busines ut had CHILD chorisgt oar sC D of f 5 and untry b ecordin s the co esence. are r tober. acros local pr sual big Jo tive songs in Oc the u se were • Google Marketing / Search Engine Promotion ong tho nd a Am lehurst, f Stap ord, ound anger y Shan, o f Aylesf ygr y the elton, o Pla Ken Sh who residents sa tured, ent KINGS Hill Spares/Repairs th pic Mid K d about a 6 bo d the It ere misle y area. resente n said: “ w rep roup. Ke ed new pla uchsia G erful plann Recruitment continued F a wond m n y has bee ainst g Field Sales/ .” e n ag show res, se titio ybourne re pictu Pe in Le Mo gym 6 AN outdoor 12 FREE COLLECTION AND DELIVERY age 1  p n dismisseyd. as has bee f mone Web Design a waste o or cash s set • Web Site Design • E-Commerce Websites • Hosting Joe’s dash f ton look Web Design st pub in Dit la life as Bridging the gap to a THE 28 ith for a new lease of nanza w for a bo ng- an office block. 32 eading eks, b ri Key Account Executive d are h thin we es Recruitmentodlan en wi Obituari 34 Sn op  ers in set to e businessown prosperityway e bridg t e h hom ed ess. T se en and River M n busin s I cho Comm ERS e my ow reason n 43 RAD cross th start e main s. 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It SERVICE WITHIN 10 MILE RADIUS to sell advertising across our utsk pp an nde of t the lling’s o the o iness Alexa gh t for .” es on in bus Hi venien he map ld- hom rease wn’s n con nd on t o Wou stone & Ma an inc , to seve nodla ving t o mean bridge eet put S tly mo x is als Maid rices. road Str o be- r recen ie, Ale per ouse p llion mber, ths ag Afte e, Kat open- Come and join our friendly sales h 19 mi Septe mon antic- ith wif bridge to over 88,000 homes every month newspa The £ pen in ren- of the am w to the : No. 1 ue to o oper T cause of h orward work dition ich is d devel , a influx oking f s daily 8 this e for wh uilt by Village ipated lo rten hi nside oposals been b Peters e to sho I ng pr Ton- has ey to y on th uters. r- ing uildi n up as s the k munit comm g a ba ute. NEW b g draw rks Four editions delivered port, a w com ers and anagin comm are bein ncil wo me ne am. shopp was m ted to alling g Cou ,000 ho ouldh g the id: “I t I wan M d Mallin See the 1 near W y feelin He sa ge bu pulpit- dge an al Plan. 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Ken s sia Grou l planned new All bikes considered Fuch derfu n a won ym has bee while working within a supportive team. Field Sales/ .” e n against g Emmetts show res, se io ybourne re pictu Petit in Le Mo or gym AN outdo sed as 12 age 16  p y. Gard has been df imsmoinse a waste o en or cash s set • Web Site Design • E-Commerce Websites • Hosting The role will involve:Joe’s dash ftton look THE last pub in Di e as Ashley Bridging the gap to a a new lease of lif 28 ith for k. nanza w ce bloc Jackson for a bo ng- an offi 32 eading eks, b ri Kent’s hockey Key Account Executive d are h thin we ries odlan en wi Obitua • Handlingrs in Sn inboundet to op and making34 outbound calls e s e businessown prosperityway e bridg t superstar e ed Th en hom er M siness. ose omm S and Riv wn bu ons I ch C Tel: 01622 663662 R e y o eas ADE ross th start m main r It’s an 43 TR ge ac . to a of the rber’s. brid town rward as one en a ba area. Reports road the ing fo low- w d to op coming new ty to re look starts f nodlan p and oing Crime ere Will collect and pay cash peri le a raffic S and u ses g pros peop hen t nding w hou ce ord. ew al busi- boom w . expa ts of ne nd on d and copper wAylesf in•g n Developingn of loc trade bridge er A lexbusinessare lo area, a f RO OFfrom lea se in existing clients tio ay the ess ere e t o a hou predic who s across hairdr c- Th und th ink a lo rom • Email • Web Site Maintenance t is the cillors ing em is sh (pi all aro ge, I th de stolen f a n e o Th nd cou on th ong th ackint o up he brid that si eople a e A228 Am M t) wh finish t er from y 01622 880840 ness p ing th new ed lef they me ov be ver d o te link n an tur s salon e will c it will the rou he tow k will ned hi peopl ecause l really s of t te ban ope in the river b . 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The ideal candidatein Octo Malli n will have previous XPERT post in East RTY E .com icarage We MoveOPE tinco t the v It Ltd are an established motor trade AL PR • Ken R LOC aidstone YOU maidstonea@nem • Mar WIN A time for udding L 290 23 P A Christmas You will be working on the best publications 90 turkey & all sharing this the experience1622 6 in a similar role and will: trim 0 min Kent’s Most Awarded Optician gs CHRISTMAS , Maidstone ME15 6RR .uk etrists.co Days ou Book Nowwww.op 01732tom 617557 t • Thea John - 07901 767 925 - 01303 627021 tre • H om serving the local community and enjoy a es & G Window Services ard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • MB WINDOW CLEANING logistics business,Autumn 2015 and due to Walks growth are looking to working environment that provides you with • Have a confident and outgoingFRE personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning E • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Gutter, Fasciathe & Conservatory freedom and• Professional flexibility & Reliable to use Service your initiative On the pumpkin recruit•trail Have at excellent Part-Time communication skills Drivers at our Maidstone branch. while working within a supportive team. Emmetts 01622 863502 07950 211 507 GThisarde nis a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.ukThe role will [email protected] involve: Ashley week to be worked overJa ck3/4son days (there will be • Handling inbound and making outbound calls Kent’s hockey Thesome flexibilityideal in the applicants hours/dayssuperstar to be worked will be presentable, flexible, 01622 880840 Quote ‘The Downs Mail’• Developing business fromAccess existing clients for the right candidate). • Obtaining and growing new business You will require the use of your own car • Working to achieve revenueDenied targets. positiveand have aand full driving be licence. a great communicator. For insurance Window Services The ideal candidate will have previous Basicpurposes salary + uncapped commissiona clean driving licence is preferred. Double Glazing Repairs WIN A time for A Christmas + bonus. OTE (based on 32 hour week) £18000 pa turkey & all the sharing this experience in a similar role and will: trim mings CHRISTMAS Days ou t • Thea & Locksmith Services Mileagetre • Hallowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Friendly, flexible, omes & Gard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock family owned business. Walks MB WINDOW CLEANING • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning• Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Lost key replaced• Be& doors self-motivated opened • Patio and doors, able runners to show & rollers initiative [email protected] contact Graeme on 01622 684467 01622 611107• Have excellent / 07967 communication 625 skills447 or [email protected] 01622 863502 07950 211 507 This is a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per Four editio ns d elivered to over 88,000 h www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected] Malling Edition omes every m We are currently recruiting a onth week to be worked over 3/4 days (there will be downsmail.co.uk Maidstone T own | Maidstone & Malling’s Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper THE K ent Co ast | joyed unty S Maidstone South | fine how e bum weat n- per cro her a grou wds at nd FREE nds in the sho Malling M Detling w- ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 July 2016 last r 3,00 year, a 0 up on some flexibility in the hours/days to be worked the ttende No. 231 coun d one ty’s bi of Comp ggest e News etitor vents. and bu s, stallh sinesse olders across s came the cou from Bett the usu ntry bu er buses c al big lo t had PARE Amon cal pre NTS a all g tho sence. bett re urging action to g Shan, se were er school of Stap Jo Kin bus Ken S lehurs gs H services f et helton t, and ill and W r bot , of A y Malling. est om h pictu lesford rep red, wh , resente o Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 c hsia G id Ken Phone bo Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ ha roup. K t for the right candidate). s b en een sai s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa how.” derful ERS ha ved ways of r ve com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxens.g thei ith Access ge 16 res, see r Access 4 Recruitment An early Christmas CHILD choristors in M are reco tiv rding a C ereworth B e songs in D of f r Octob es- id er. g 5 in Pla g yground an You will require the use of your own car th KINGS Hill r ger e wer esidents e m b g isled ab say the u plan out a y Looking for a change? a ne p d ne s w i play ar n to ea. TRAD es  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against gym ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in g n ew acro Sno e een dism Leybour p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ne ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty h e one Denied at is th ty to r M e ead y. n e p t d in ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn. set to o Denied the ro nd cou ocal bu op nan Joe’s dash f and have a full driving licence. ute li ncillo si- p en za w out nkin rs wh eopl with ith skirts g the o say e are in w a THE last pub in or c ho of th A228 trade looki eek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n Ditton loo n t n e in wh rwa rin ew mean he op and g acr en tra rd to g- an office b lleoacske. o ks set an i posite new oss the ffic st a st f life as hou ncreas bank Am bridg arts flo art my se pri e in b will ong th e. w- own ces. usine em is was on busin The £ ss and haird e of th ess. T  w 19 m resser Snodl e mai he bri Obituaries 28 hich illion Mack Alex and to n reas dge is due road intos expa open ons I c has b to op brid ture h (pic nding a bar hose een bu en in S ge, d lef - The and u ber’s.  port ilt by eptem op t) wh re are p and It’s an Com 32 , as th deve ber, ened o up lots o comin men 1,0 e key loper A his sa all a f new g are t 00 hom to Pet Tren- lexan lon t roun hous a. ea e new ers Vi der’s i hey fi d the es goi  st ban com llage, town’ n the nish th area, ng 34 k nea munit a s peop e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With r Wou y on t Stree High le will ge, I th nce Sno ldha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nven cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ient fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er , d e ago, b H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in Basic salary + uncapped commission usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf n . s ber : “I wa rs. ham tly m ” ord. ’s in T s man with w oving onbrid aging looki ife, K to Wo ge bu a bar- ng for atie, A uld- t I wa ing ward t lex is nted t to sho o the also o com rten h bridge mute is dail open and its quarterly sister publication . y work - 8 YOUR Police LOCA Double Glazing Repairs 01622 690290L PR A FOR to pulpit Insid OPE MER e th RTY ficer Metr is edi maidston eE@XmP ar is t opolit NEW tion: ERT Ma he ne an Pol build lling, w vi ice of- Malli ing p HGV DRIVER,+ bonus. FOR OTE A (based SKIP on 32COMPANY hour week) £18000 pa 23 Pudding Lane • M Re Teston car a ng are ropos v a t b a tinco Nick nd W East bridg eing dr ls for .com wi Willia aterin e and awn up aidstone • K th two ms, w gbury on i Mallin as To p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vica ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an rage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticianEa in artner t by M st Mall people ship, w alling ing.  , busin hich su 5 the 11 esses pports parish and ev es in th ents in We are looking for a hardBook Now 01732 617557 working,e Mall self-motivated in g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk & Locksmith Services Mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata)experienced, Friendly, flexible,all-round journalist CONTACT family owned business. to be Deputy Editor. • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock candidates to work in the lead industry.FREE You will be working D.T Autumn 2015 • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • LetterboxesMARK ON Email applications, includingD.T your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. SKIP HIRE The role entails all aspects of newspaper • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & [email protected] HIREin a 2/3work so man a sound knowledge team of news to start with depending on experience. gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Garden The successful candidateWorking will help to locations are varied around

Four editio managens deliv a small, dedicated team and ered to over 88,000 h omes e Malling Edition very m We are currently recruiting a deputise for the editor.onth South East Kent and London. downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone T Theown | deputy editor will Malsoaidstone & Mdriveall content to Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper T ing’s HE Ken jo t Coun ast | yed fi ty Sho Maidstone South | b ne w w en- umper eather A time for g crowd and FREE round s at the s in De show- Malling Mor ourtling. expanding daily news website. The role e than sharing this Workingvisito 80,00 hours vary and working Saturdays may be required. rs 0 , over 3 July 2016 last ye ,000 u ar, a tt p on No. 231 the c ended ounty’ one of Co s bigge mpetit st even News and ors, sta ts. CHRISTMAS busine llholde acro srequiresses ca rs creative input into our popular ss m the co e from Bett the u untry b er buses c sual bi ut ha P A g local d ARENT all mong presen S are s Sh those w ce. better school buurgs isnegrv aiccetiso fn to g Walk an, of S ere Jo ns • Ke tapleh Kings H et rde n Shelt urst, an ill an Ga bo on, of A d Malling. d West rom es & th pict ylesfo om r ured, wmagazinerd, Mid Kent Living. as • H ep h WINtm e resente o eatr Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 A Chris ll the Th ch • sia Gro id Kent Phone bo & a out has up. Ken Normal working weekkey ays is Monday - Friday been sai tur mings D s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa m how.” derful ERS ha ved tri ways of r ve com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxens.g thei ith ge 16 res, see r This is a full time position based at our Recruitment An early Christmas 4 CHILD choristors in M are recor tiv ding a C ereworth B e song D of f r s in Octob es- id er. friendlyg offices in Bearsted.5 in Pla g yground anger Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail th KINGS Hill r 06:00am - 16:00pm e wer esidents s e m b g isled ab ay the u plan out a y Looking for a change? s ap ned new i play ar n to ea. TRAD es  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against gym ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty hat i ty er M e oney. n s the p to t ed adin ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn set to the ro nd cou ocal b . op onan Joe’s dash f ute li ncillo usi- p en w za w outsk nking rs who eople ithin ith a THE irts o the A2 Salarysay t are lo £28,000we last pub in Dittonr loco pa ho f th 28 rade oki ek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n e r rinRates of pay - negotiable based on site in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath n th n a in wh war g ew mean e op nd g acr en tra d to - an office b lleoacske. of l ks set an i posite new oss the ffic st a st ife as hou ncreas bank Am bridg arts flo art my se pri e in b will ong th e. w- own ces. usine em is was on busin The £ ss and haird e of th ess. T  w 19 m resser Snodl e mai he bri Obituaries 28 hich i illion Mack Alex and to n reas dge s due road intosh expa open ons I c has be to ope brid ture (pic nding a barb hose en bu n in S ge, d lef - The and u er’s. I  port, ilt by eptem op t) wh re are p and t’s an Com 32 as the devel ber, ened h o up lots o comin men 1,00 key t oper A is sal all a f new g area t 0 hom o Pete Tren- lexand on th round house . eas e new rs Vil 32dayst er’s in ey fin thannuale a s goin  leave t ban com lage, own’ the ish th rea, g 34 k near munit a s peopl e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With Woul y on t Stree High e will ge, I th nce Sno dha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nveni cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ent fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er d e Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, ago, b , H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf skills and experience. s b : “I rs. ham ntly .” or er’s in was m with movin d. Tonb anagin loo wife, g to W ridge g a b king f Katie ould- but I w ar- in orwar , Alex ante g to sh d to th is als d to c orten e brid o If you wouldomm his da likege ope a new challenge or are keen ute il n and its quarterly sister publication . y work -  Y Police 8 OUR L OCA A to 01622 690290L PRO FOR pulpit Insid good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat PER MER M e this TY E ficer etrop N editi maidstone@XmPEaR is the olitan EW b on: to makeT Mall in a nestepw Police Mup,uilding we’d love to hear from you. g, vi of- alli p HGV DRIVER, FOR A SKIP COMPANY 23 Pudding Lane Re Teston car a ng are ropos v a t b a rtinco Nick nd W East bridg eing dr ls for • M .com wi Willia aterin e and awn up aidston th two ms, w gbury on i Mallin as To e • K p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vic ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an arage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports call Richard on 0757 076 8834 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD Emailwww.optometrists.co.uk your application, includingEssential credentials: or email: [email protected], all-round journalist your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: to be Deputy Editor. simon.fi[email protected] Willingness to be flexible CONTACT Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable FREE MARK ON D.T Autumn 2015 The role entails all aspects of newspaper - Driving Licence SKIP HIRE Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 07860832233 work so a sound knowledge of news - CSCS Site operatives card gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta Garden The successful candidate will help to Applicants to apply to [email protected] manage a small, dedicated team and deputise for the editor. Or Call 07713808565 The deputy editor will also drive content to A time for our expanding daily news website. The role sharing this requires creative input into our popular CHRISTMAS alks ens • W Gard mes & magazine Mid Kent Living. as • Ho WINtm tre ll the hea A Chris& a t • T key gs s ou tur min Day This is a full time position based at our trim Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail friendly offices in Bearsted. in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath Salary £28,000 pa 32days annual leave 3434Flexible working MaidstoneMaidstone hours, small WealdWeald and large JulyJuly rounds 20192019 available, Maidstone Weald July 2019 35 If you would like a new challenge or are keen good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat to make a step up, we’d love to hear from you. call Richard on 0757 076 8834 Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable simon.fi[email protected]

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MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald July July 2019 2019 37 37 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Population growth biggest issue W HAT is the biggest issue currently pressure will arise for a new Lenham t worrying the people of Maidstone and junction to the M20 if a much-extended area? MailMarks village or new centre of population Brexit, of course, is a main contender. DENNIS FOWLE President mooted at 2,500/5,000 houses is imposed But there is an even bigger talking point [email protected] on this area. – the severe deterioration in quality of There are proposals for massive our lives brought about by the massive developments around Kingswood growth in housing and population. (helping to finance what was once called Politically, I suspect these two have very bad. On top of that, the Government is the Leeds/Langley bypass) and a big new close links. very slow providing meaningful village at the top of Detling Hill, All this is behind the anger of a infrastructure to back up its monumental although the designation of an Area of Maidstone Council commi�ee agreeing housing demands. Outstanding Beauty may thwart this. to consider substantial further growth It does not stop at roads, of course. Our All this goes on when lack of national (more than 7,000 houses) behind closed health and care services are stretched by and local funding is impacting so heavily doors. The big picture comes before population growth to dangerous limits on our services and infrastructure. How commercial confidentiality (which must and we lose vital professionals due to many nominations are there for the worst be respected, normally at the end of a unfair strains. Our number of local GPs road surface in the area; the greatest meeting). contracts at a time when we need more. diminution of health and care services; Urban Maidstone is beyond saturation Hospital and ambulance NHS targets are lack of school places of parental choice; point and our MPs and elected seriously missed, most worryingly on the most ill-lit streets at night? councillors must get this across to cancer investigations and treatments. Government and somehow make it listen We cannot build new schools fast The Brexit county and respond. Electorate pressure is now enough and sites are increasingly I h a ve crossed swords with several beyond doubt. difficult to find. My sympathy is with who claim Maidstone has changed its A main problem used to be traffic residents around Eclipse Park/New Cut mind after voting 58% in favour of Brexit. congestion approaching Maidstone with the added traffic chaos they will They have no evidence – and the centre, and at that time there may have face. European Parliament elections now been some merit in the local Lib Dems’ Maidstone Council has to respond to almost certainly indicate Maidstone still desire to make us bus, cycle or walk to Government demands for extra houses strongly favours Brexit. town (so called Modal Shift). and to avoid trying further to fit a quart There can be no denying the view of But now serious traffic congestion in to urban Maidstone’s pint pot looks to 20,475 who voted for the Brexit Party and occurs all over the place as we try to get our larger villages to take the strains. 1,062 for UKIP. They alone outnumber to work, schools, health services, shops There are now rural rebellions. the combined total who voted for and to places of leisure, family and In the current Government-approved Labour, Green, LibDems and Change UK friends. Life just cannot be planned – a Local Plan, villages such as Lenham, – and among these there will be Brexit journey traditionally taking 15 minutes Harrietsham, Marden, Staplehurst and supporters who will always vote party can stretch to 30 minutes or very much Headcorn were designated for growth – loyalty first. The Conservatives polled longer. and the extent is now emerging. So much only 4,697 – the loyal few who did not To a degree I have given up, and to for Kent – the Garden of England! join the protest vote. avoid these nightmares I try to reserve Unless Government relents, I cannot All Kent’s 13 areas saw the Brexit Party my visits to and through urban see an alternative. Marden has just gone top the poll – even Tunbridge Wells, the Maidstone to an occasional half day and on the march to protest against 2,000 only Kent area to vote against Brexit suffer the anger and frustrations in one more houses. Perhaps it will achieve about three years ago. hit. something of a reprieve, but in the longer A Prime Minister who made so many Significant road structures in and term it seems this ba�le cannot be won. mistakes and saw her surrender of a around Maidstone have largely been Lenham (in particular) and withdrawal agreement defeated three ignored for decades, and as the urban Harrietsham face even bigger challenges. times by Parliament has now been forced area has massively grown, just about all Both villages are close to the M20 and to resign. MPs are having to listen to the possibilities have now closed. In Kent, A20 and are served by stations on the people. But no one can yet see how this Maidstone’s situation looks uniquely London-Kent coast rail line. Surely is going to end. No raing from May hasn’t she, too, fallen victim to the very elements in all parties, and accepted the condition she identified and, in particular, softer Norway-style deal offered soon after ANN Widdecombe, the county town’s to the over-entitled ex-public school boys, negotiations started. former stout-hearted warrior queen, may now busy jockeying for position, who Rees Moggites, Faragestes and Mr Fowle be right that the Prime Minister is Britain’s privately cling to traditional ideas about would have been incandescent with rage, worst leader since Sir Anthony Eden, but the role of women? but it would have been the least disruptive at least Theresa May, a quiet remainer Mrs Thatcher said that early on in the departure from the EU, and could well during the referendum, has not leadership of the party some of her senior have won a majority in the Commons. shamelessly jumped ship – which colleagues treated her like she was the K G Banks, Maidstone Churchill, never one to mince words, cleaning lady. called “ra�ing”. May was dealt a ro�en hand when What is people’s vote? This was an issue on which he could Cameron left to spend more time in his BEFORE David Cameron departed for his speak with authority since as he once shepherd’s hut, but, that said, one she has last visit to the EU, he stated that if his admi�ed “I ra�ed not once, but twice”. played badly. demands were not met, there would be an Early in her career, Mrs May told a Instead of wooing hardliners, who in/out indisputable referendum. stony-faced Tory conference that much of would probably only be happy leaving the It was obvious that he and the majority the public saw them as “the nasty party”. EU without a deal, she ought to have of MPs, who wanted to remain, had no Whatever her failings and limitations, appealed to the larger mainstream idea of public feeling. Those who voted to

38 Maidstone Weald July 2019 downsmail.co.uk

leave were derided as racist and too naive the children playing and also doing sports be an organ donor – you can opt in or opt C to be able to understand what they had activities. Not a good idea. out. Your family will always be involved o m e n voted for. The schools are to be situated on a road to ensure any recorded decision reflects However, as most of those politicians which is really a country lane and is your decision, so please talk to them. later admi�ed, they did not themselves totally unsuitable as there is only a narrow Organ donation is, and will always be, a know many of the facts which, in their

footpath, which swings from side to side precious gift, and one donor can save or t positions, they should have done. seven times between the A20 to KIMS transform the lives of up to nine people The remainers have also used roundabout. and help many more people, if they also percentages as a means of hiding the One school is to be named a “Bearsted” donate tissue. actual figures to show the large difference school, when it is in Boxley, and the To find out more, and to register your between in and out. children will have to come by car, which organ donation decision, visit With the UK’s departure from the EU will jam the already-gridlocked area as www.organdonation.nhs.uk. If you can’t now overdue by many weeks, causing well as junction 7, which is hardly coping. find the answer to any questions you may confusion to many in business, MPs have The planners and councillors have also have on the website, please call our hotline had two recesses of about 14 days, because approved an office block and warehouses on 0300 303 2094. they are tired. at Woodcut Road, 500 metres from the Anthony Clarkson, director of organ If they manage to cobble some kind of Leeds Castle entrance, so junction 8 will donation and transplantation, NHS Blood deal together, then some want a people’s also be jammed with lorries, and if the and Transplant vote to hold their hand for them. What is a motorway is closed at junction 8, God help people’s vote? It is not defined in the us. Oxford English Dictionary? Can anyone As usual, the highways authority is not Become a volunteer vote? fit for purpose, and nobody listens to local HAVE you ever thought about There are no politicians who can fill the residents. We do know our area –- I cannot volunteering? Could you help an boots of Winston Churchill or Clement think of any other part of Maidstone that established charity as it celebrates its 80th A�lee. has 10 schools in a radius of birthday? Alan Wallace, via email approximately three miles. Citizens’ Advice Maidstone wants We, the residents, feel u�erly helpless people to be part of the next 80 years of its Why not have referendum? with our Kent leaders and also our history by volunteering with them. CAN any of your readers explain why government. Nobody is listening to us. We started in Maidstone on January 1, some people are against a “confirmatory I never thought I would see this once 1940 – four months after the beginning of people’s vote” or second referendum on great country in such a dire state and feel WWII and the start-up of the national any EU leaving deal? thoroughly ashamed of the incompetence, Citizens’ Advice service. In life, initial decisions are always dishonesty, selfishness and uncaring From April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019, reviewed and questioned as more facts a�itude we now have. Thank goodness I the 45 volunteer advisers and 15 volunteer become available, thus avoiding bad have lived the best years of my life in a assessors at Citizens’ Advice Maidstone outcomes. What is so different, now more country that was well run and pleasant. helped 10,409 people with 41,098 facts are known? R A Harlow, Bearsted problems, including debt, housing benefit I hope your readers can enlighten me. and employment issues. Our organisation AJB Colllins, Staplehurst worked over 550 hours on average per Organ donation change week providing this service. THE law around organ donation in Volunteers are the linchpin of the Majority are ignored England is changing. service, providing clients with information WHAT on earth is happening in this From spring 2020, all adults in England and advice, raising funds, keeping the country when the wishes of the majority will be considered to have agreed to be an service running smoothly, and helping are ignored and the minority take organ donor when they die, unless they with the strategic direction of the precedence? have recorded a decision not to donate. organisation. We have planners who think it’s fine to We want everybody in Kent to take a For information about volunteering put two schools, which are not needed in moment to think about organ donation, with Citizens’ Advice Maidstone, call this area, and a nature reserve next to a making their organ donation decision and Heather Hardy on 01622 750770 or email home for people with, I understand, sharing it with family and friends. [email protected]. mental health problems. Several of the Those covered by the new law will still Bonny Malhotra, Citizens’ Advice rooms of this establishment will overlook have a choice about whether they want to Maidstone

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

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