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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling August 2016 No. 232

News Flood defence blow Truck cab to pulpit A LORRY driver is soon to take over as the new, full-time vicar for ,  leaves villages at risk and . 3 Grafty plan approval THE plug has been pulled on two flood defence schemes proposed to LUXURY homes are to be built on protect the people of Yalding, Collier Street and Hunton. the site of the former  Grafty garden centre. 12 As revealed in the Downs Mail last the EA says the FSAs on the Beult The EA’s feasibility study indi- month, the Environment Agency’s and Teise are unlikely to offer “sig- cated that a significant number of modelling for three schemes, at a nificant benefit”. properties in and Hilden- Horse cons are jailed total cost of £35m, fell well short of It has now recommended that the borough would be protected by THREE fraudsters who sold sick locals’ expectations. most beneficial approach for homes Leigh Barrier improvements and horses for profit have  County Council (KCC) will in and around Yalding would be bids for funding were to be pro- been jailed. 14 put in £2.5m to the project, instead of through Property Level Resilience gressed accordingly. its promised £17.5m. (PLR) applied to individual proper- The EA said 32 properties would MP said: “I was ties with an EA consultation shortly. have been protected on the Beult at a Sorry to hugely disappointed to learn that Under an existing DEFRA scheme cost of £9m, and 96 properties on the PARISH council said sorry for re- this approach has been shown to fall PLR grants of £5,500 are available to Teise at a cost of £7m. moving the village’s seriously short of expectation.” certain properties. These could fund The Government will provide hanging baskets. 14 The EA originally said a combina- flood barriers for homes, air- £11m towards Leigh Barrier im- tion of three flood storage areas brick/vent covers and non-return provements, with a further £2.5m (FSAs) would be the best approach. valves which can be fitted to drains from KCC and £0.5m from Ton- Ramblin’ Man uproar But detailed computer modelling to prevent floodwater backing up. bridge & Malling council, together MUSIC festival organisers faced work indicates that Leigh Barrier im- Several homeowners in Yalding with private sector contributions. a chorus of complaint provements will have very limited have taken advantage of the scheme, The scheme is also reliant on a bid about excessive noise. 22 benefit for the residents of Yalding, but were relying on the flood de- to the South East Local Enterprise Laddingford and Collier Street while fence project for further protection. Partnership (LEP) for £4.5million. Kent show success MORE than 80,000 visitors Dates are all adding up flocked to the county NEW mum Sara Mollison reckons the addition to her fam- show at . 28 ily is already living by numbers. There has been a series of “spooky” coincidences where Obituaries 30 many female relations have birth months which corre- spond to the birth date. Comment 32-33 For instance, baby Alexa Mollison, who was born at Pembury Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, two weeks late, ar- rived in the world on June 6 (6/6). Perhaps there is nothing Crime Reports 33 unusual there – but Sara was born on October 10 (10/10) – as was her mother, Mary Hillgrove. GOLF clubs were stolen from a And there are more besides. house in . Sara, who is on maternity leave from her job as a maths teacher at Valley Park School, in Maidstone, said: “She kept us waiting, but it turns out she wanted to impress her mathematical mama and be like all the other ladies in the family.” Sara is pictured holding baby Alexa, with mother-in-law Jackie and sister-in-law Sarah. See the full story on page 6. Bank ram raid Market successes RAM raiders attacked the NatWest THE new Farmers’ Market has bank in , ripping out proved to be a success with much of the front of the building to dozens of stallholders taking part get at the cash machines. in Jubilee Square. For more, see YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT These were then loaded onto the Maidstone Council-sponsored 01622 690290 [email protected] another vehicle and taken  12-page Borough Update inside. 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent away. 16 Maidstone Let Age UK Maidstone 01622 Please see more help you with of our services all your needs 753618 on pages 9 & 16 2 Maidstone South August 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Power lines hit ALMOST 200 homes were left with- Former trucker Paul out power after a lorry overturned and hit power lines in Marden. Police and two fire engines at- tended the scene in Maidstone Road on July 22. There were no reported is villages’ new vicar injuries. Part of the carriageway, which LORRY-driving reverend Paul Kish Gary Collville, who has held the fort links Marden with , was is looking forward to his new full- since Rev Paul Filmer took retire- damaged and police had to direct time job as the vicar of Yalding, ment in 2014, following a long ill- traffic around the affected area. Laddingford and Collier Street. ness. The road was closed between Bat- The father of four moves into the He will lead his last service at tle Lane and Underlyn Lane for sev- parish with wife Anna at the end of Yalding church on August 1 at eral hours while emergency repairs August, setting up home at Yalding 9.30am and at Collier Street at 11am took place. Vicarage. It follows a period of 15 and on August 28 he will take his years as a self-supporting, unpaid final service at Laddingford at 11am minister, helping parishes without a and Yalding at 1pm. Music awards vicar. The parish magazine thanked Rev KENT’S “biggest little music festi- He will be familiar to congrega- Collville for his time serving the val” has been nominated for two tions at and Detling and also parish, adding: “The Bishop ‘sent’ major music industry awards. at School, where he Gary to us during a time of great The Vicar’s Picnic – named after its has also been a teacher, chaplain and need for our Benefice and he has origins in Vicarage Road, Yalding – head of department. guided and helped so many during has been nominated as the best small Rev Kish says he is now looking The Reverend Paul Kish this time. festival in the Outdoor Event forward to putting down roots, al- sity and another who attends Invicta “I know Gary has enjoyed his time Awards and for the best new festival though he admits working has kept Grammar School. His son Charlie, with us, albeit a testing time as any in the Best UK Festivals awards. him in the “real world”. the youngest, is at Oakwood Park Interregnum is, and we wish him the The two-day event on the Lees, “Under my cassock I’ve still got school in Maidstone. very best of luck and many prayers had more than 1,000 people dancing the soul of a lorry driver,” he laughs. Rev Kish takes his first service at for his next journey.” to headliners Reef on the final night. Rev Kish was born in Ilkley, York- Yalding (9.30am) and Collier Street Rev Collville thanked the congre- shire, and trained as a priest in 1996. (11am) on September 25, while de- gation for the friendship and hospi- He moved to his wife’s native Kent, tails of the venue for his institution tality he has enjoyed, adding: “Be Delays on M20 and the family currently lives in on September 21 have still to be an- assured, I will be praying for you all A VINTAGE military vehicle which Goudhurst. nounced. in the new future you will have flipped on the London-bound M20 He has two daughters at univer- He takes up the role from Rev shortly, with a new vicar in tow.” caused delays of about 90 minutes. The accident happened between Read the latest editons of the Downs Mail FREE online at www.downsmail.co.uk and Ashford. There were no injuries. www.castle-cleaning.co.uk

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Maidstone South August 2016 3 News downsmail.co.uk ‘Switch the traffic lights off’ THE county council has been urged to pull the plug on a new set of traffic lights causing congestion on a vital road serving Maidstone Hospital. It follows growing anger from motorists, frustrated by an extra set of lights and filter lane installed just Your views yards from those already serving the busy A20 junction at the bottom Contributors to the Streetlife web of Hermitage Lane. page have been having their say: The new controls have been in- “Shambles. It was perfectly troduced for customers using the obvious to all normal thinking new McDonald’s drive-through people that this new shopping and retail park. complex would cause traffic Contributors to Aylesford’s problems, it’s not rocket science. Streetlife web page say there are- “Having allowed the complex queues on the A20 in both direc- to be built, the least the council tions, and beyond the hospital to can now do is purchase the land . opposite and widen the road so They claim lights are forcing The new traffic lights and filter lane at the bottom of Hermitage Lane that the hospital and through drivers to wait at McDonald’s simply switched them off until the (Tonbridge & Malling Council) on traffic have a clear lane. when the traffic lights on the A20 problem can be resolved.” a number of measures, which in- “There should have been a are green. The filter lane serving He says traffic already manages cluded linking the site access to ex- direct road through from the A20 the restaurant, from the A20, is also to feed on to Hermitage Lane from isting junctions and alterations to when the hospital was built. I too small, meaning any more than various roads, including from lane markings. remember the discussions at the three cars wishing to turn into the Barming station, without the need “Unfortunately, we subsequently time well, but as usual those in drive through ultimately block for disruptive traffic lights. learned the planning conditions office thought they knew better.” through traffic. There are fears it will worsen placed on the applicant did not Jill T Kent County Council member when Aldi opens on the site. refer in detail to the need for the ap- “We tried to drive up to the Dan Daley, of Allington, says it Sara, who works at the hospital plicant to deliver these measures. hospital from the M20 and just takes him 30 minutes to drive from and lives in Pratling Street, posted “We are working…to ensure the sat on the A20 waiting to turn the Duke of Edinburgh to the Lon- on Streetlife: “Yesterday, I worked improvements can be made as soon into Hermitage Lane. What a don Road. a 10-hour day at the hospital and fi- as possible.” disgrace, but nothing will be done He said: “Why anyone would nally got in my car to go home and Cllr Daley added: “KCC does as it is all in place now. It’s too think it was a good idea to put two went nowhere. Whose idea was it seem to be getting the message and late to complain and it’s a waste sets of lights so close to the A20 to put traffic lights there for the finally, I hope, will start represent- of time anyway – like the junction is anybody’s guess. shopping centre and McDonalds?” ing its infrastructure concerns as it Government – they don't listen “They’ve been up a month and I A Kent County Council has done in the Sutton Road area of to us or common sense. think it’s time the county council spokesman said: “We advised the town.” Fred G Bogus officials Thief in court A MAIDSTONE man who admitted on doorsteps shoplifting five times from two BOGUS callers are using concerns stores in the town has been ordered about water supplies during hot to pay £227 compensation. weather to steal jewellery and Mid Kent magistrates heard that money from homes in Maidstone. Craig Elkington (42) stole meat Police have received reports of worth £108 from a shop in two men calling at homes in the Northumberland Road and in Feb- Parkway area of the town saying ruary and April he stole smaller they need to check stopcocks be- amounts of meat from the store. cause of issues with water supplies. Patrick Leeson with Senacre Wood chairman of governors Andy Bax, On January 22, he took air fresh- Once inside the houses, the bogus headteacher Peter Hellman and Roger Gough eners worth £30, from another shop callers have kept their victims dis- in Willington Street, returning on tracted while jewellery and cash June 3 to steal meat worth £19. were stolen. School teams rewarded Magistrates sentenced Elkington, from Wallis Avenue, Maidstone, to Incidents have been reported at THREE schools from the Maid- child deserves a good education 60 days in prison, suspended for 12 houses in Disraeli Close, Courtenay stone area have been recognised and we want Kent to be the best months. Road, and Woolley Road. The men at an awards ceremony after place in for them to be are described as white and in their gaining strong Ofsted reports. educated.” 20s. Both were smartly dressed. Head teachers and governors Senacre, in Graveney Road, Train to be guide At one incident, one of the offend- from Senacre Wood, Tiger and Tiger in Boughton Lane and LEARN how to become a guide for ers was reported to have a mous- Marden primary schools re- Marden were all given a “good” tache and the other a goatee beard. the blind and partially sighted at a ceived certificates of apprecia- rating by Ofsted. free training session in Maidstone. Investigating officer PC Michelle tion from Roger Gough, KCC Twenty-six schools from Marshall said: “We are asking Maidstone’s Mobility Centre will cabinet member for education across the county were honoured host the training at 6 James What- friends and relatives of elderly resi- and Patrick Leeson, the council’s at the KCC celebration at Maid- dents to make sure they know not to man Court, Turkey Mill, on the Ash- corporate director. stone’s Mercure Hotel. ford Road, from 9.30-11.30am on let cold callers into their home with- Mr Gough said: “Your schools Headteacher Peter Hellman, out checking they are legitimate.” Wednesday, August 10. are great examples of what can who has been at Senacre for 24 For more information or to book a Anyone with information is asked be achieved with the right lead- years, paid tribute to his team to call on 01622 604100 place contact the mobility team on ership and the continued com- and especially his deputy for 0845 3727422 or email Cassan- or Kent Crimestoppers, anony- mitment of your staff. Every bringing forward new ideas. mously, on 0800 555111. [email protected].

4 Maidstone South August 2016 downsmail.co.uk News

Bryn Lerwill and John Dobin (left) claim rising costs imposed by brewers Shepherd Neame have led to the closure of their local, the White Hart in Collier Street (below) Shepherd Neame pub closure row

REGULARS in Collier Street claim Shepherd Neame has been “a dis- aster” for their local pub. The 155-year-old White Hart in Claygate, recently sold by the brew- ery, could be the last pub of five in the parish to shut. Bryn Lerwill and John Dobin say crippling tenancy costs and supply tariffs have forced tenants away. has no interest in respecting the John, a chartered quantity sur- pub’s heritage.” veyor, claimed that since being Collier Street parish council chair- bought from Russell Roberts in 2008 man Barbara Grandi said: “This was by the brewery, locals have been a popular pub…but more recently it WhWhereere there’stherree’s a served by 11 different landlords – seems to have been down to the dif- driving trade elsewhere. ferent managers that were put here Mr Dobin, from Claygate, said: by the brewery not being suited to “We’ve had 11 new faces, 11 new the needs of the locals. It will be ex- WWillill tthere’shere’saws a waywawaayy bar and restaurant teams, 11 close tremely sad if it doesn’t continue as down and handover periods, 11 a pub.” YourYYoour Will can be a very powerful tool to help your new interpretations of what is best The parish council is now waiting for the pub, 11 sets of new opening for news on its application to regis- loved ones. It can: hours, 11 menu styles and so on. ter the pub as a community asset. “Whatever one may think about Retired IT consultant Bryn Lerwill • Ensurree your assets are left to the people you choose the quality of the beer on offer, the said: “Having a decent pub within quality of the tenant landlords var- walking distance was one of the cri- • Prrotect your family - appappoint guardians for ied tremendously, but good or bad, teria for choosing our house when your childrren each succumbed to unsupportable we moved here from Hertfordshire financial losses. 11 years ago.” • Save your family tax “Shepherd Neame has been a dis- A Shepherd Neame spokesman aster for the White Hart, rendering said: “The brewery decided to sell • Give you peace of mind, a very valuable commodity it impossible for anyone to make a the White Hart in Collier Street, and Just as you take expert advice when buying a new go of it. contracts have been exchanged for “If a company of its size could not the sale of the premises. The deci- house or investment plan, it’s even more important to find a manager to keep the pub run- sion was not taken lightly, but the take expert advice regarding your Will. ning until a new freehouse landlord pub has not been economically vi- was established, then clearly S&N able for some time.” If you don’t have a Will – now is the time to discuss your wishes. If you have a Will – does it still reflect your Threat to A&E dismissed wishes and in a tax efficient way? STORIES circulating that the future of Maidstone Hospital A&E could ToTo rreviewreeview your currcurrentreent Will at no charge contact be under threat, as NHS services in Kent are reorganised, have been totally dismissed by local health bosses. us todaytoday.y.. Dr Bob Bowes, chairman of the budget-holding NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “This has come out of nowhere Canterbury 01227 643266 as far as I am concerned. There are no plans by either Maidstone and Maidstone 01622 698051 Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust or by the commissioning group to close Maidstone A&E.” TenterdenTTeenterden 01580 767540 Glenn Douglas, chief executive of the hospital trust, said closure would be impossible unless a new service point was created to ac- www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monc.whitehead-monckton.co.uk commodate the huge number of patients seen." WhiteheadWhitehead MoncktonMonckton LLimitedimited (no.(no. 008366029),8366029), rregisteredegistered iinn Dennis Fowle, chairman of Maidstone Action for Services in the EnglandEngland & WWales.ales. RRegisteredegistered oofficeffice 7722 KKinging SStreet,treet, MMaidstone,aidstone, Kent,KKeent, Hospital (MASH), said: “Maidstone has frequently been assured MEME14www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk14 11BL.BL. AAuthoriseduthorised aandnd rregulatedegulated bbyy tthehe SSolicitorsolicitors RRegulationegulation about the future of our A&E and my current research convinces me it AAuthorityuthority uundernder nno.o. 6608279.08279. is not under threat.” DM2016

Maidstone South August 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Town protocol on its plaques Baby Alexa is another MAIDSTONE is considering adopt- ing a “plaques protocol” to com- memorate some of the borough’s most eminent citizens. ‘spooky’ family female At present, there is only a handful of plaques in place – one in Earl Street commemorating Andrew NEW mum Sara Mollison reckons Broughton, who sentenced King the new addition to her family is Charles I to death in 1648, and an- already living by numbers. other to note the service of nurse There has been a series of Edith Cavell, who helped fight “spooky” coincidences where Maidstone’s typhoid outbreak in many female relations have birth 1897, on the wall of the United Re- months which correspond to the formed Church in Week Street. birth date. There is also plaque on the Town For instance, baby Alexa Molli- Hall to commemorate The Battle of son, who was born at Pembury Maidstone and another to commem- Hospital, Tunbridge Wells, two orate Havock Lane at Fremlin Walk. weeks late, arrived in the world on The council does not currently op- June 6 (6/6). erate a plaque scheme and the Perhaps there is nothing unusual owner of any building can erect a there – but Sara was born on Octo- plaque on it with planning consent. ber 10 (10/10) – as was her mother, Left: Sara, left, with mum-in-law The committee believes it should Mary Hillgrove. Jackie, Sarah and baby Alexa. show its commitment to local her- Sara’s sister Leesa was born on Above: Sara's mum Mary and itage by drawing up a protocol for December 12 (12/12) and her sister- younger sister Leesa in Canada future plaque installations. in-law Sarah Mollison was born on A report drawn up by committee May 5 (5/5) her mathematical mama and be band Chris Mollison, a boy named chairman Cllr David Pickett with To top it all, Sara’s mother-in- like all the other ladies in the fam- Oakley, a year ago. The couple live input from Cllrs Clive English, Jenni law, Jackie Mollison, was born on ily.” in Larkfield. Paterson and Gordon Newton, rec- July 7 (7/7). Alexa, who weighed in at 6lb Proud grandma Jackie Mollison, ommends adopting a standard slate Sara, who is on maternity leave 14oz, is the first child for Sara and from , said: “We were plaque with inscriptions cut in from her job as a maths teacher at her husband Elliot, who live near so excited at Alexa being born that Times Roman font. The names of Valley Park School in Maidstone, . the penny didn’t drop at first that prominent people or events should said: “She kept us waiting, but it Her sister-in-law Sarah gave she was keeping up the family tra- be gilded in 23 carat gold lettering. turns out she wanted to impress birth to her first child with hus- dition. It’s quite spooky really!”

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Maidstone South August 2016 7 News| Brexit downsmail.co.uk Retailers hopeful after Brexit WITH recent wet weather already thought to have dampened shoppers’ enthusiasm, retailers have been bracing themselves for the feared fall-out from the referendum vote to leave Europe. But Maidstone’s independent re- tailers say it’s business as usual on the post-Brexit frontline, with the Atmosphere initial shock leading to new opti- mism. ‘is positive’ Philippa Cheasman, who runs Ilsasaid Butler that retailersfrom the town have centre to rally an upholstery firm in Market lookpartnership after their One Maidstone, customers. said: “We Buildings, is looking forward to can’t“It seems just wait that for the the general shop view door is to the new benefits that she believes open.”that retail businesses don’t Brexit could bring for business expect to be everywhere. affected at this She said: “We have been here for stage, given eight years and have always had that the EU work. Post-Brexit I am very opti- exit mistic. In the short term, we have negotiations plenty of work and I teach six up- It’s business as usual in Gabriel’s Hill in Maidstone are still to take holstery classes which are all full. place. We have just taken on a nice order “Once they for furniture on the Isle of Shep- Ilsa Butler are concluded, pey. “I think Brexit in the long run is it will be “Brexit is something that, I think going to be good for all of us” interesting to see if there are in the long run, is going to be good developments in terms of import for all of us. If prices level out so Philippa Cheasman, upholsterer costs and to monitor the position that people haven’t got to compete of the pound.” against them, hopefully our manu- including some in Ashford,” she and working in this country. facturing industries will benefit, said. “The business has gone from “I personally know a few Euro- The Chamber of Commerce in because that is what we need in strength to strength and this year I peans and there is a lot of worry Maidstone says there is a this country.” have had to take on lots more staff for the future,” he said. “I think it’s positive For school outfitter Sam Page, for the summer and hire units to almost business as usual now. atmosphere business is booming as parents buy store the stock in. We are doing After the initial shock factor, peo- about the uniforms for their children in the better than ever and I can’t see how ple are getting used to it now.” town’s run-up to the new school year in that could be affected.” However, he feels that any post- businesses. September. But Sam, who also sells Hi-fi specialist Simon Burton, Brexit feelgood factor is going to be The dance and workwear at her shop in who owns Home Media Ltd, in long term. He added: “It’s going to chamber’s Pudding Lane, does not believe Union Street, voted to stay in the be a slow process – it’s not going to Roger Keech that it will be affected by any po- EU. He says it is too early to tell turn around overnight, but there’s said: “I think tential post-Brexit downturn in how retail will be affected after a degree of positivity if interest it’s a case of consumer confidence. Roger Keech austerity brought several years of rates come down.” keep calm and “We started supplying uniforms challenging trading conditions, but Kevin Blake runs Bang and carry on making the most of to 11 schools and now we have 30, is concerned for Europeans living Olufsen in the Royal Star Arcade opportunities. I don’t think with his brother, Paul, as well as everyone expected the Brexit four more branches in the South vote to go through but now it “After the initial shock factor, East, all specialising in high-end has, everybody is trying to be TVs and electronics. Kevin voted optimistic. people are geing used to it now” for Remain, and says that Brexit is “It’s absolutely business as Simon Burton, owner Home Media just one of many factors that have usual for Maidstone.” dented high street shopping. Book shop ‘looking for a miracle’ SHOP owner Phillippa Hoad says Brexit has made no differ- ence to her business, Little Mouse Books in Market Buildings. But, sadly, she will be shutting up shop in October when her lease is due for renewal. Store’s new look “I will be here until September, THE Golden Boot shoe shop in then I will be closing down un- Gabriels’ Hill has invested in Maid- less there is something short of a stone’s future by expanding the miracle,” she said. women’s department and a “I have some really good, loyal makeover of the whole store. customers but this is the wrong Established in 1790, the shop sells location for this sort of business. high-end footwear and bags. Philippa ploughed her savings Owner Ed Martin said: “The into the shop when she launched feedback has been very positive it three years ago, but can no from our customers both on the re- longer afford the lease. She said: brand and the launch of the new “I just don’t think this is the right women’s shop.” place for this sort of business.”

8 Maidstone South August 2016 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk FIFTH ANNIVERSARY FOR NURSERY SCHOOL Parents from the family-run Brishing Barn owner and nursery, Brishing Barn, founder Elisabeth Balfour said: attended a special ceremony “When I started up the nursery, I to celebrate its fifth drew upon my experiences as a anniversary and their parent and tried to provide a children’s graduations. homely, welcoming Many of the little environment. “graduates” have been at the “I’d like to think we have nursery since it first opened been successful as the five years ago, when there had nursery is popular and really WE CURRENTLY only been a small handful of busy. We do have some HAVE SPACES them. availability in our pre-school room from AVAILABLE September, for three-year-olds. We are open 50 The ceremony took place in our Little Owls & outside the beautiful Grade II weeks of the year - only closing between listed barn in Brishing Lane, Christmas and New Year, and all bank holidays.” Tawny Owls Room for Boughton Monchelsea, a For Elisabeth, a “warm and communicative” children aged 22-36 short distance from relationship with parents is a source of pride as is months and are also Maidstone town centre. the nursery’s exclusive use of Nurserycam, a registering secure website, where parents can log in privately In brilliant summer sunshine, pre-school places for a the children received their to see their children during the day at no extra scrolls in the spacious play area. cost. September start The children at the Matt and Lisa Lamb, parents of Brishing ceremony are leaving Barn graduate Joshua, said: Call now for Brishing Barn to start ‘big “The Nurserycam just school’ in September, having gives us reassurance further details spent happy early years at the and we like knowing nursery. that we can check our 01622 749800 The ceremony has become little boy is safe.” or email an annual event and is seen as Elisabeth added: [email protected] a way of marking the children’s “People visiting Brishing achievements and to say a Barn for the first time often warm farewell as they move onto the next stage in comment on the welcoming their education. and beautiful setting.”

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Maidstone South August 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk GP’s affection for Hardy Tracey takes on By Dennis Fowle THE affection and deep knowledge Dr Tony Fincham has of Thomas Hardy’s Wessex shines through in seas and terror his new book. Dr Fincham, sen- PUB landlady Tracey Leaver has ior partner in the taken a break from pulling pints to Yalding Surgery, is swim from Asia to Europe. immediate past The open-water swim enthusiast, chairman of The who helps husband Charles run the Hardy Society and Chequers Inn at Laddingford, was a current vice-pres- among more than 2,000 swimmers ident. to compete in this year’s Bosphorous The 88-page Cross-Continental Swim. well-illustrated Tracey, who got hooked on open book will help water swimming after taking part in guide visitors to the Lake Windermere Great Swim Dorset and neigh- seven years ago, set herself the chal- bouring West lenge as part of her 50th birthday Country and also year. delight followers of The swim, organised by the Turk- were due to leave, there was the at- one of Britain’s ish Olympic Committee, starts on tack on the airport and five days be- most respected au- the Asian side of Istanbul and ends fore there was the attempted coup. thors. on the European side of the River “A lot of people pulled out, but The book is a Bosphorous. about a quarter of us still wanted to tourist and The Bosphorous is one of the go, so the trip went ahead. walker’s guide, es- busiest shipping lanes in the world “It’s such a shame. The hotels are pecially in and and was closed to traffic for the two- empty, yet the people are charming around Dorch- hour duration of the swim. and we felt very safe .” ester. It weaves in Tracey competed the swim in Although the 6.5km swim is not the Hardy stories and especially the fictional characters. 1hour 18 mins and 53 seconds and is the longest distance Tracey has cov- Hardy created his own name places for his Wessex and the book includes pictured with her certificate. ered in open water, it was by far the a fascinating guide to so many. Until the 11th hour, the trip could most challenging. “Exploring Thomas Hardy’s Wessex” is published by The Dovecote Press have been in jeopardy because of She said: “The current is very (£7.95) and is available from Yalding Surgery. political unrest in Turkey. strong and you have to have your She said: “Two weeks before we wits about you.”

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10 Maidstone South August 2016 downsmail.co.uk News

soft furnishings Family firm based in , offering all aspects of soft furnishing from curtains and blinds to knitting wool and haberdashery Personal 1-1 service Rubbish dumped near Headcorn Nearly 40 years of experience Joining forces Available to every budget Knitting wool and to clear verges haberdashery BOSSES from Maidstone and land.Maidstone Council said that, Tonbridge and Malling have like other Kent authorities, it works joined forces with the 11 other hard to keep its borough clean and Kent councils in urging Highways tidy. England to clean up roadsides in A statement added: “We work the Garden of England. with other agencies, such as KCC A joint letter on behalf of all 13 Highways, to ensure the faster authorities has been sent to Simon roads are cleansed regularly and Unit 2, The Oast, Clockhouse Farm, Jones, director of Highways Eng- safely. The first impression of Coxheath, Maidstone, Kent ME17 4PB land, urging him to agree an action someone arriving in Maidstone is plan. often the amount of litter on the The councils are demanding bet- slip roads of the motorways. 01622 744265 ter co-ordination so that councils “These roadside verges are main- www.aquariussoftfurnishings.co.uk can clean roadsides and lay-bys tained by Highways England when roads are closed for mainte- and....this work should be given a Email:[email protected] nance and say that, otherwise, they higher priority.” are missing chances to save taxpay- Cllr David Lettington, Tonbridge ers’ money. and Malling’s cabinet member for The letter demands greater clar- environment services said: “We are “When our new fence looks this good, ity about whose responsibility it is determined to crack down on those to clean up which roads. who to litter the borough. is maintenance free and guaranteed It also says that Highways Eng- “Working regularly with com- land should run a joint campaign munity groups and schools to edu- for 25 years, it’s a no-brainer” with the councils to discourage mo- cate local people on the importance torists from throwing rubbish out of taking care of our environment of their vehicles as they drive only gets the message out so far through the countryside or park in and more needs to be done to reach lay-bys. a wider audience. The move follows a summit “Taking a collaborative approach meeting involving senior council- will hopefully further spread the lors and officers from Kent Re- anti-littering message and improve source Partnership and Kent our approach to tackling litter.” County Council. The growing concern reflects the The 13 council stressed their de- postbags of local councillors whose termination to protect the county’s communities are blighted by anti- image as the Garden of Eng- social littering and fly-tipping. Award in memory of Bernard Head A NEW annual award in memory of past President Bernard Head, Our customers tell us they’re glad they chose of and who died last Colourfence, and were delighted with our year, to mark commitment and range of colours. They love that our fences are dedication to the Rotary Club of tested to withstand merciless weather – even Maidstone, was awarded to wind gusts of up to 130mph. They enjoy how it 25yr Bernard himself and received by is maintenance free, and they love the peace of GUARANTEE his widow Helen, right. mind provided by its 25-year guarantee*. For Retiring President David Hack- a lifetime of trouble-free garden enjoyment, ett said Bernard, a member for 20 years, had shown outstanding make yours a Colourfence garden. courage and determination to at- tend meetings regularly in the For a free no-obligation quote, please contact us now. face of a debilitating disease. The new President of the club is 01622 233322 Malcolm Gibson of Boughton www.colourfencemidkent.co.uk Monchelsea. *Terms & Conditions apply please ask for details

Maidstone South August 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Speed clamp VILLAGERS are clamping down on speeding drivers with new monitor- ‘Quality’ homes agreed ing equipment and tougher high- way controls. As part of the clampdown, Staple- hurst Parish Council has bought on Grafty centre’s land speedwatch equipment with a grant from county councillor Eric Hotson. PERMISSION for a planned hous- It has also persuaded the county ing development on the site of the council to reduce the Knoxbridge old Grafty Green garden centre, speed limit from 70mph to 50. near , has been granted. Council chairman Rory Silkin Councillors previously could not said: “I know that some Knoxbridge agree on certain ecological aspects of residents wanted a 40mph limit, but the proposal for high-quality houses this is a start.” and a small industrial unit but have He hopes the speedwatch camera been satisfied enough to approve. will help slow traffic further. On one The scheme was met with local ap- One of the planned evening, in half-an-hour, 23 mo- proval and impressed some mem- homes (left) and torists were recorded at speeds over bers of Maidstone Borough Council Guy Holloway the limit in Station Road – including (MBC) planning committee. one at 50mph. Strongly-worded let- Ron Galton, vice chairman of courage families to live where they as a rural need.” ters have been sent to four drivers. Parish Council, work”. The development is expected to said his authority strongly sup- Some neighbours have welcomed generate over 50 vehicle movements Youth scheme ported the application. the application, saying the site has a day but Kent County Council He told a recent meeting: “It will been a magnet for vandals. Others Highways did not object. YOUNGSTERS in Staplehurst are have less impact than a low-cost, expressed concern about the devel- There were concerns over the use invited to get involved in running high density development.” opment’s entrance via Crumps Lane of greenbelt to the west of the car the village. The homes have been designed by which is “notorious for near misses”. park, which was bought separately. It follows a call from the parish Kent-based architect Guy Hollaway. MBC’s planning officers had rec- Natural England also fears an ad- council following a request from a Quinn Estates, which bought the ommended refusal on the grounds verse effect on the nearby woodland. teenager to form a Youth Parish site on the Headcorn Road in No- the scheme did not fit into the local The four and five-bedroom Council to get more views from vember 2014, will demolish the old plan’s exceptions to rural building. houses would have garages incor- youngsters in the area. Cllr Sam greenhouses but plans feature glass Cllr Shellina Prendergast asked: porating further living accommo- Lain Rose is leading the initiative widely in the 14 detached homes it “Here we have the opportunity for a dation above. and is calling on those aged 11 to 18 hopes will replace them. There will good housing development on a The applicant offered £350,000 to- and interested in getting involved also be a two-storey office block. brown field site, so why?” wards off-site affordable housing, to email him at parishcllrsam@iain- Mark Quinn, of Quinn Estates, Colleague Cllr Martin Round said: broadband and improvements to the rose.me.uk by August 31. said the development would “en- “This satisfies a market need as well village hall, if permission was given. All LOADS Ltd Loose or Bags 01622 873 231 Specialists in supplying aggregates Turf • Top Soil • Sand & Ballast Free Delivery All Bags £40 Bulk Bag Waste Collection www.allloads.co.uk email:[email protected]

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Maidstone South August 2016 13 News downsmail.co.uk Rail open day THE Headcorn Railway Modellers open day is to be held at the Baptist Jail for horse fraudsters Church on September 10 from 10am to 4pm. There will be four exhibition lay outs and mlight refreshments will who sold sick animals be available. Admission on the door is £2 for THREE greedy fraudsters have adults, £1 for under 12s and free to been jailed for a total of more children under the age of five. than seven years for selling sick Charlotte If you want to know more, call and dangerous horses to unsus- Johnson and Yvonne or Brian on 01622 891178. pecting buyers. Alternatively, they are con- They were each sentenced to Aniela Jurecka tactable at the email address: yvon- two-and-a-half-years in prison drugged horses nechapman1954@ outlook.com when they appeared before Maid- to cover up stone Crown Court. sickness and Prayer meet Despite denying the multiple behaviour fraud charges, Aniela Jurecka (28), problems, before A PRAYER meeting will be held on of Prospect Place, Collier Street, selling them on August 15 at 7.30pm at St Nicholas’ Tonbridge, Charlotte Johnson (28), to unsuspecting church in . of Tollgate Way, Sandling and 66- customers The September meetings will be year-old David Smith, of Fingle- held on the 5th and 19th of that sham, Deal, were all convicted of and the victim would buy a sub- Horses. Throughout the course of month. conspiracy to commit fraud by standard horse. In many cases, the the investigation, officers identi- For further details, contact false representation. paperwork for the horses was al- fied 17 victims of fraud. Mandy Hughes on 01622 862793 0r The court heard how Jurecka and tered. In some cases, the buyers were 07791 532461. Johnson advertised horses for sale Prices for horses ranged from looking for animals suitable for in equestrian publications. £1,950 to £5,700. children. Basket ‘sorry’ When text messages were down- The horses were sold from farms Police said due to the number of loaded by detectives, they sug- in Staplehurst and Marden and the victims coming forward, the inves- HEADCORN Parish Council has gested the pair were drugging certificates of the animals’ good tigation was complex. In January apologised to residents for having horses to cover up poor behaviour health and suitability for purpose 2015, the trio were charged with to remove the village’s hanging and lameness. were provided by Smith, of the fraud. flower baskets. Jurecka and Johnson would also Lakeview Veterinary Centre in The trio were arrested following The council said the floral dis- advise that buyers used their rec- Capel Le Ferne, near Folkestone. a large-scale operation involving plays had become too dry and un- ommended vet, David Smith, to Jurecka and Johnson advertised officers from Kent Police, Trading sightly following a broken water save money. Smith would then the horses under the business Standards and The Royal College bowser and a delay in the repair. give the horses a clean bill of health names of SE Horses and Mid Kent of Veterinary Surgeons.

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Maidstone South August 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk Opening day for bug hotel Ramraiders drive off HEADCORN has unveiled a new hotel - but you will have to be quick if guests want to book a bed for the night. with bank cashpoint The Bug Hotel is the latest cre- ation of Bloomin’ Headcorn – a group of gardeners and conserva- RAM raiders attacked the tionists creating a “Nature Garden” NatWest Bank in Staplehurst, rip- in Day’s Green. ping out much of the front of the The volunteers have spent building as the robbers left with months creating a mini meadow the cash machine. near the playground. Detectives cordoned off the site They removed a patch of original where rubble, bricks and glass turf, sowing wildflower seeds from were strewn over the footpath and the Kew Gardens’ Grow Wild car park at the parade of shops, Scheme. which includes a bookmakers and Bloomin’ Headcorn member a wine merchants. James Hewitt put together a sturdy It appears the cash machine was frame for the Bug Hotel which was targeted in a similar way in 2007. filled with natural materials, leaves Residents heard the sounds of and twigs by visitors to the village. the machine’s mechanical arm bat- The plan is for the hotel to ac- tering of the bank before the thieves commodate a whole range of bugs left the scene in a 4x4 vehicle. The boarded up bank in The Parade, Staplehurst and minibeasts, so they can feed, The engine had been left running sleep, hibernate and raise their off- at the scene. According to police, the cash ma- the cash point from the wall was spring. Kent Police appealed for infor- chine is reported to have then been left at the scene and we are follow- There are still a few sections of mation after the theft and would lifted onto a flatbed vehicle, which ing a number of lines of enquiry to the hotel which need to be filled – like to hear from potential wit- left the scene and headed in the identify those responsible. leaves, cardboard and straw make nesses. Cranbrook direction. “Although this offence happened ideal homes for things such as They said officers were called to This vehicle is believed to have in the early hours, we are appeal- lacewings, ladybirds, leaf cutter The Parade at about 3.30am, on been a Landrover. ing for anyone with information bees and woodlice. July 22, after reports that a tele- Detective Inspector Gary Scarfe, who may not have come forward.” If you would like to help with fu- scopic forklift truck had been used of Kent Police’s Serious and Or- By the weekend, the bank’s ture projects, you can email bloom- to remove the cash machine from ganised Crime Unit said: “The in- façade had been boarded up where [email protected] the bank. dustrial machinery used to prise the damage had been caused.

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Maidstone South August 2016 17 News | Maidstone development downsmail.co.uk 1,300 more homes on the A274

THREE large housing Housing allocation developments are set to Local shops proceed at Langley, 2 Open space despite reservations Urban boundary about the effect another Economic development 1,300 homes will have 1 3 on the area. Two of the plans were passed on July 14, while another, subject to ap- peal to the secretary of state, was also given approval status. Before the meeting, Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) came in for criticism over its alleged attempt to get planning approval on matters in 5 the borough’s local plan which were yet to be considered by a govern- 4 ment inspector. Ukip councillor Eddie Powell, a member of the planning committee and opponent of the schemes, said: “I realise there has to be some de- velopment, but this is not the 1 Imperial Park place.” 2 North of Wood Cllr Paul Aplin, of Otham Parish Council, claimed putting the 3 Bicknor Farm scheme through a planning com- 4 Langley Park mittee before the government in- spection might be interpreted as “a 5 South of Sutton Road cynical move”. He warned if the housing schemes do go forward, the Sutton Rd and surrounding roads the developers would mitigate this. will be gridlocked at peak times. When the council’s planning com- Traffic is already backing up to mittee reconvened on July 14, its Sutton Valence, said Cllr Paulina members approved the three appli- Stockell, and Horseshoe Lane at cations, totalling more than 1,300 Langley is barely two metres wide houses on sites off the A274. and unable to cope with extra vehi- They relate to land at Bicknor cles. Farm for 270 homes and for more The council argued the houses than 1,000 houses on land south of were part of a wider house-building Sutton Road and an area north of programme in line with govern- Bicknor Road. The Bicknor Farm ment policy. It had commissioned land is already under appeal to the its own traffic consultants, who said secretary of state but the planning local junctions were over-capacity, committee voted to approve it any- An HGV struggles to get through Leeds village but claimed measures proposed by way. Schools are welcome, but roads vital too ON A cold Thursday night in Febru- Bearsted from September 2018. To- gley relief road. This has been talked ary, hundreds of people, some with Comment by gether, these should bring school about for about 30 years, but there placards, turned up to a public meet- Helen Whately, journeys back to sensible distances. comes a point where talk will have to ing in Maidstone. MP Faversham Development proposals for Sutton turn into action. They were there to express their and Mid Kent Road also included funding towards What difference might Brexit views on the future of housing and a GP surgery. However, the plans for make? With the likely slow-down in development in our area, and few road improvements strike me as in- immigration, will we see a reduced subjects stir up stronger feelings. government’s agenda and local sufficient. Of course, it’s a good thing demand for housing? There’s specu- As an MP, it’s one of the things I housing need, and the concerns of for people to use buses and bicycles, lation about a slow-down in house- get contacted about most. I get calls residents worried about fields being but there are lots of situations where building in any event. from families who desperately need built over, traffic queues, GP appoint- that simply isn’t possible and car When parliament returns, I will ask a home, letters from people who’ve ments and school places. journeys will be necessary. whether such factors should be taken lived in a rural village all their lives The total number of homes being Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone into account in Maidstone’s local and worry that it could be changed planned is extraordinarily high, and and The , and I recently wrote plan, which will be examined this au- beyond recognition, and emails from it doesn’t make sense to press on to MBC asking them to include a re- tumn. parents whose children haven’t got without material investment in the view point in the local plan to re- I suspect the pressure will be to into nearby schools. road network. assess the traffic impact of carry on regardless, but my view is Maidstone Borough Council (MBC), I’m glad there’s a primary school development. that it’s important to get this right. which plans 18,500 homes, is caught opening this autumn for Langley, Kent County Council is getting on Once you’ve built on a green field, between the pressure to meet the and another one planned to serve with work on a potential Leeds-Lan- you’ll never get that field back again.

18 Maidstone South August 2016 downsmail.co.uk Maidstone development | News

Leeds-Langley Decisions should wait for inspector’s verdict IT IS barely 10am on a sunlit Satur- ‘road on table’ day on the busy Sutton Road, but Comment by already there is a hum of building Simon Finlay, A RELIEF road to ease congestion amendment aimed at securing a work everywhere. Editor of the through south Maidstone could be commitment to the building of a re- Scaffolders in hard hats clank built around the back of Leeds vil- lief road. bars and make jokes, diggers and Downs Mail lage, Downs Mail has learned. New builds at Langley Park have dumpers scuttle along dusty mud The Maidstone joint transporta- seen a large number of cars and tracks and sales people hover in occupy these units and, in turn, cre- tion board (JTB) is considering a other vehicles backed up to Sutton makeshift offices ready for another ate prosperity for others. route would take the large volume Valence in one direction and at the potential buyer. There are cogent arguments for of vehicles off the B2163 on Penfold Wheatsheaf junction in the other The sites are a combination of and against building on such a huge Hill, around the water works, across along the Sutton Road. newly-built and half-built homes, all scale – 18,000 plus are in the MBC country and emerging on the A274 Willington Street and the B2163 in outwardly differing styles but all pipeline – and the pressures it cre- near Langley. through Leeds tend to take most of curiously similar. Parts are fenced ates on the local communities. Some members of the JTB see the this traffic at peak times, with the lat- off for safety and security, and With MBC’s planning commit- option as the start of a Maidstone or- ter experiencing an increasing num- around the half-built, un-mortgaged tee’s consent narrowly given to bital route which will have a capac- ber of large lorries, one of which is edges there lie great piles of mate- three new developments in the Sut- ity to take existing traffic demands pictured above. They arecurrently rial from the builders’ merchants. ton Road area, the local county and expected future volumes as the banned from the village. This is the vision of the future. councillor Gary Cooke did not mince borough council forges ahead with Cllr Cooke said: “Clearly, this The houses in Langley Park are his words. its plans for 18,000 new houses. cannot continue and a solution has being snapped up, there is much in- “They have voted to destroy what Pressures on Willington Street to be found. I moved the amend- terest in Imperial Park and down little quality of life is left in Maid- could also be eased by one of three ment so that there could be no wa- the road at Coxheath, Willow stone south east,” he said. possible schemes on the table. tering down of the language.” Grange is well on the way to com- The roads will not be able to cope The JTB is currently looking at op- KCC and JTB colleague Jenny pletion. nor will the local schools and impor- tions going from east-to-west, west- Whittle, of Bearsted, added: “With Hundreds and hundreds of tant natural habitats will be lost for- to-east and the Leeds-Langley relief all the of house building going on houses. And there has just been ap- ever, argue the critics. road. The Leeds proposal would fea- and more in the pipeline, a relief proval for about 1,300 more on the What will happen in October is ture a single lane highway in each road is absolutely essential.” Sutton Road, or just off it. that the government planning in- direction. Faversham and Mid Kent MP There is understandable nervous- spector will scrutinise Maidstone’s At a recent meeting of the JTB – Helen Whately said: “People need to ness about Maidstone Borough local plan in its entirety. comprising Kent County Council see clear options on a map, how it Council’s unrelenting house-con- The inspector’s deliberations will representatives and members of will work, how much it will cost and struction march. be lengthy and considered, non-po- Maidstone Borough Council – KCC how it will be be funded. Residents The council must hit its govern- litical and based on knowledge and councillor Gary Cooke moved an need to be properly consulted.” ment quotas, create spaces for folk experience. to live in and attract skill-sets of the We might do well to wait and Have your say – email [email protected] aspirational types who will one day hear what he has to say.

Maidstone South August 2016 19 West End Tavern Marden Summer

The Anchor's 14th century Restaurant in Headcorn. Housed thatched roofed pub retains many in a traditional Tudor building, of its traditional features, the low beams create a cosy including oak beams and wooden ambience and a relaxing wall panelling. Relax in the atmosphere. The takeaway meals comfortable bar and restaurant, or are also very popular. The set enjoy the extensive terrace meal for two includes any two overlooking the river when the main course dishes of your choice FOOD SERVED weather is fine. (King Prawn £3 extra) with poppadums, onion bhaajis, Monday – Saturday Situated a 10 minute stroll from the quaint village of Yalding near Bombay potatoes, two pilau rice 12-2 pm & 7-9pm Maidstone, The Anchor is and two naans for just £21.95. particularly popular with visitors Offering a delivery service on Sunday 12-4pm exploring the beautiful Wealden Fridays and Saturdays, if you are countryside. It is also a regular looking to enjoy a meal, or host a Terms & conditions stop-off point for kayakers and party – maybe in your garden - Must be a minimum other river users. give them a call! of a party of six We serve distinctive Kentish cask The West End Tavern in Marden ales in peak condition, a wide is known for its well-kept ales and range of international lagers and traditional pub food together with Sunday Bandstand 2-4pm an excellent list of carefully the warm atmosphere. A bar sourced wines from family- menu and daily special are Sunday 14th August - Jazz Swing Band owned vineyards, along with a available from Tuesday to Sunday Sunday 28th August - Jazz Quartet variety of delicious light bites and between 12-2pm and Monday to traditional pub meals. Saturday 7pm-9pm. On Sundays, a family style roast lunch is served Call 01622 831956 to reserve your table This Summer, come rain or shine, from 12-2pm and booking is you can expect a warm welcome West End, Marden, Tonbridge, Kent TN12 9JB email:[email protected] advisable. Originally built in the at the The Krishna Indian 18th century, the West End

Events coming up he Georg T YALDING e • Saturday 13th August Time is Tight – Ska and Reggae Night – 9pm-12am • Saturday 20th August Johnny Green Blues Band – 8.30-11pm • Friday 26th August Chris Clarke Mixed Night – The family warmly Blues, Swing, 70s & 80s Night – 9-11.30pm welcome you to The George, Yalding • Sunday 28th August – Classic Car Rally Outside barbeque area, Fishing facilities from our garden hog roast also available includes lunch a beer/drink Atmospheric family friendly pub, £10.00 and all day fishing outside events including a great garden for many uses including new Food served all day and a Sunday roast available fishing facilities and live music. New Childrens playground. All football showing 01622 814376 The George Yalding See our website for more information on our lovely pub Road, Yalding, Maidstone, Kent ME18 6EJ www.thegeorgeyalding.co.uk

20 Maidstone South August 2016 e Woolpack I Dining Th nn

Tavern is located on the site of the citizens menus are available Mon- Old Forge in Marden. Wed. Since The George enjoys a The ‘Tavern’ quickly became the wonderful, picturesque garden, Fine cask beers & lagers most popular ‘beer house’ among barbeques and hog roasts are the local Kent Hop Pickers in the available all year round and a in the 1940s to 1950s and today new children’s playground to still retains the original low beams keep the children busy while you Home and an inglenook fireplace. Well relax. behaved dogs and children are The Woolpack Inn is a family cooked welcomed and our pretty garden friendly country pub in the quiet is just the place to soak up the and rural village of Benover, with meals & summer sun. a good selection of cask beers, fine The George in Yalding is a wines and home cooked food. bar snacks beautiful family pub situated on With old world décor, this historic the River Beult and as such offers pub has a traditional restaurant fishing facilities throughout the with a friendly and warm Our opening hours are : Summer months. You can take atmosphere and beautiful gardens advantage of this for just £10 for with a play area to enjoy on balmy Tues til Friday 11am ‘til 3pm, 5pm ‘til 10.30pm all day fishing and this also summer days. The varied menu Saturday 11am ‘til 10.30pm includes lunch and a drink. Check features top quality meat, fish and out www.thegeorgeyalding.co.uk for vegetarian dishes made with Sunday 12 noon ‘til 8pm all forthcoming events including locally sourced ingredients. From Mondays closed except bank holidays live entertainment, quiz nights hearty Sunday roasts and steak and charity walks. Also offering and ale pies to light sandwich a good sized atmospheric suppers – there is something for Benover Road, Benover, Yalding, Kent ME18 6AS restaurant, varying menus are everyone, including a childrens’ available throughout the week, menu for the little ones. It’s also including traditional stone-baked the perfect spot for passing Tel: 01892 730356 pizzas and brunches as well as cyclists and ramblers. All are [email protected] delicious Sunday roasts. Senior welcome at The Woolpack Inn…     

Indian Restaurant & Takeaway Let us take the heat this Summer BUFFET NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY £12.95 per person A selection of starters, salads and main courses to suit all tastes. Fresh naan bread served at the table. FRIDAY FEAST 2 Courses only £15.95 (Min 2 people) Poppadom, Onion Bhaaji & Chicken Tikka. Main course of your choice served with Saag Aloo, Garlic Mushroom Masala, Pilau Rice and Naan Serving up culinary excellence for over 25 years a: 41 High Street, Headcorn, Kent TN27 9NL t: 01622 890665   w: www.krishna-restaurant.com

Maidstone South August 2016 21 News downsmail.co.uk Ramblin’ Man gets mouthful Residents protest over THE former chief executive of Leeds Castle gave an “absolute mouthful” to organisers of the Ramblin’ Man Fair open air concert at Mote Park state of ‘repaired’ road over the noise levels. Victoria Wallace, who lives nearby THERE’S something amiss in with her husband Sean and two Maidstone when residents from a daughters, was incensed by the quiet cul-de-sac take to the streets. sound created by acts like Whites- The reason for the unrest in Valen- Residents protest nake and Black Stone Cherry. tine Road and Hubble Drive is the over patched The festival’s music could be “appalling” state of the roads and roads, weeds and heard as far away as and pavements – even after repairs. cracked . Mr Wallace said his Residents from more than a dozen pavements, weeks wife rang the complaints number homes – including Rusty the Jack after KCC and demanded the music be turned Russell – turned out to protest at the organised repairs down. He said: “When she finally condition of the area, two weeks got through to someone, they said after KCC closed the road for a day in Valentine Road nothing could be done. So Victoria to fix holes in the road and cracks in and Hubble Drive gave them an absolute mouthful. the pavement. protest, said the condition of the cers, saying it was time county coun- “She told them to go to the sound Residents returned home to find desk and tell them to turn it down roads and pavements was disgust- cillors took control and looked again the work was finished in a few hours which they did seem to do.” ing. She claimed council budget cuts at fundamental issues like upkeep. and involved “spray-on tar and Borough councillor for Bearsted, were no excuse for shoddy repairs, A KCC spokesman said the road loose stones” to cover the problem. Mike Revell, received five com- which, she believes, are ruining and weeds would be re-inspected to plaints. He said the sound at site Glyn Friend, from Hubble Drive, Maidstone’s reputation. determine what can be done. level “wasn’t too bad” but those in has produced a DVD showing the She said: “We are looking after our UKIP borough councillor Eddie the east were able to hear it for miles. state of the two roads, which has homes and being let down by the Powell, who supported the protest, He added: “It doesn’t seem the been sent, along with a letter of com- county council which is failing to said he had been bombarded with council has a hands-on policy. I am plaint, to KCC. It shows weeds maintain the area.” complaints from the Park Wood area going to look into it.” growing out of holes in the road, Ken Humphrey (81) and his wife about the state of verges, roads and An MBC spokesman said that 35 patched and uneven pavements and Janet said it was unacceptable to paths. He said: “It seems people complaints had been received about loose chippings littering the road. allow the paths along Willington power has got the reaction they were noise levels which he claimed were He says the area is unsightly, and a Street to fall into disrepair. hoping for. Unfortunately, it does within “agreed limits”. hazard to motorists and pedestrians, John Overy, of Valentine Road, seem to be the case that it really  Ramblin’ Man Fair pictures, page many of whom are elderly. complained about cash priorities comes down to those who shout 36 Gillian Roberts, who joined the being determined by unelected offi- loudest.”

22 Maidstone South August 2016 Maidstone Borough Council UpdateBorough August 2016

IN THIS ISSUE: • Farmers’ Market • Council Tax Reduction Scheme • Play Area Improvements • Recycling • Coming Home Exhibition • and more!

www.maidstone.gov.uk 2 Maidstone Borough Council Proms in the Park - family day out success! The annual Proms in the Park was enjoyed by over 2,000 people this year. Residents and visitors took the opportunity to enjoy the late May bank holiday and soak up the sunshine in Whatman Park, accompanied by a programme of music and family—friendly entertainment to delight all ages. Positive feedback has been received from residents and A full day of entertainment to celebrate the Queen’s 90th charity organisations that were present on the day. birthday was provided by local performers including Maidstone Wind Symphony, Maidstone Singers and the We are delighted that this event continues to thrive and be Hazlitt Youth Theatre as well as promenade performances enjoyed by so many of our residents — real community from a stilt walker/ balloon modeller and talented coming together to enjoy a day of culture and magician. entertainment in a picturesque setting.

Open-air cinema comes Farmers’ Market comes to Jubilee Square Vibrancy, local produce and delicious fresh food is the order of the day for to Whatman Park MBC’s latest success as a new Farmers’ Market comes to town! Do you love family films? There are approximately 50 thriving Farmers’ Markets across Kent; however, to date, there Want to share an open-air cinematic have only ever been occasional trial experience? Farmers’ Markets in Maidstone. We have the perfect way for you to spend Over the last few months we have been another bank holiday treat with all the working, in partnership with the Kent family. Residents and visitors can book to Farmers’ Market Association, to bring this see the latest release of the classic film venture to fruition. We consulted on the right Jungle Book* on Sunday 29 August at balance of traders and the best way to reach the trading community and 7.30pm. hope that this initiative will develop and go from strength to strength. Cinema goers will be able to access the park The first Farmers’ Market was launched on Friday 24 June and has seen a from 6pm and tickets will be available from positive reaction from residents, consumers and traders alike. the Hazlitt Theatre on 01622 758611 (Monday The market will continue to be hosted in Jubilee Square on the 4th Friday — Saturday 10am- 4.00pm) or online at of each month between 10am and 2pm. The emphasis is on freshness, www.hazlitttheatre.com quality and value for money. Buying locally means that customers can ask *Please note that the choice of film is subject how the product is produced and grown, and meet the producers. to change without notification. Shoppers in Maidstone will be able to come back each month and see what new, in-season products are there to tempt them and it will certainly add some vibrancy to the town centre. What can consumers look forward to buying? • Fresh fruit and veg • Bakers – bread and • Fresh delicatessen • Local honey fresh cakes items • Local butchers – • Cider • Nuts fresh meat, sausages • Deluxe cookies • Olives and game • Fudge • Plants • Cheese • Soaps • Knitted items With such a variety of produce we hope to see you at future markets – enjoy!

Dino Day – Baby T-Rex was a sensation! Over 1,600 visitors enjoyed were not disappointed by the (Rex’s handler) and even Dino Day as Maidstone spectacle. learnt about Rex’s rather Museum brought a life sized Rex appeared four times unconventional love of baby T-Rex to town recently. throughout the day and was chicken nuggets! The animatronic baby T-Rex greeted by hundreds of Other activities that were was an instant hit with adults excited visitors who were enjoyed on the day ranged and children and was delighted to be invited to roar from dinosaur face painting, certainly a highlight of the and stroke Rex as he walked museum’s calendar. People through the entrance to the making dino masks, digging We have already been asked from a wide area including museum and down to the in sandpits to find if Rex will be returning…we Tunbridge Wells, Gillingham, café courtyard. Dinosaur archaeopteryx and certainly hope so. Ashford and Essex, flocked to enthusiasts were ready with exploratory dino trails see the dino sensation and lots of questions for Mike throughout the museum. ROAR – so does Rex. Maidstone Borough Council 3 Tell us what you think Residents’ views wanted on changes to Council Tax Reduction Scheme We are inviting residents and other key stakeholders to take part in a public consultation. With the council looking at a number of ways of making savings over the coming years, those living in the borough should share their views on changes to its Council Tax Reduction Scheme. The scheme provides discounted council tax bills to around 11,000 low income households at a cost of £8.8 million per year. The changes being considered do not affect pensioner households because their discounts are set by the Government. Residents can have their say on a number of options which are intended to bring the council’s scheme in line with other welfare benefits, as well as reduce the cost of the scheme. You will have until the 24 August to respond to an online questionnaire with the new scheme coming into place on 1 April 2017. If you aren’t able to access the survey online you can fill out a paper copy at The Gateway in King Street, Maidstone. The survey and further information regarding the changes can be found on our website www.maidstone.gov.uk/haveyoursay Economy update — how are we looking? After a period of extensive consultation, the Council adopted its Economic Development Strategy in 2015. This sets out how we will support the future growth and prosperity of the town and borough. We are determined to see local people benefit from new jobs, increasing prosperity and sustainable growth. Here we look at the key points of the strategy and how the economic outlook for the residents of the borough is already improving. The EDS highlighted three central aims encourage the retention and attraction to KMC including Cygnet, a new private to be achieved by 2031: of new investment in the area, including mental hospital. Enable the creation of 14,400 jobs in a working together with North Kent The Business Terrace is further helping range of sectors and occupations Partners to bid to Government to stimulate ‘entrepreneurship’ offering Raise economic output per head to the Enterprise Zone status (EZ). a range of initiatives aimed at start-up level of the South East A key transformational project businesses in the borough. Raise the skills profile of Maidstone to highlighted in the EDS encompasses the Town centres across the country are the South East average Kent Medical Campus (KMC) and the facing significant changes in consumer development of its 30 acre site. Outline behaviours. As a result of these How has the economic landscape planning permission has been granted changed in the borough? emerging trends, a comprehensive for a range of medical and health Maidstone Town Centre Action Plan was There are already signs of significant released uses with the potential to developed and approved in December growth compared to three years ago: create 3,000 jobs. 2015. The number of unemployment Two key benefits of EZ status are: Cllr Fran Wilson, Leader of the Council, claimants is down from 2.1% to 1.2% Up to 100% business rate discount said: "After much consultation and People in employment has risen from worth up to £275,000 per business policy development the Council is 74.6% to 80.9% over a five year period. moving into delivery mode and it’s The self-employment rate has risen All business rates growth generated by encouraging to see so much progress in such as short term. Our partnership from 9.3% to 16% (8th highest in the the Enterprise Zone is kept by the work with businesses is seeing real country) relevant local authorities in the area dividends in terms of investment, jobs Resident wages have risen, returning for 25 years to reinvest in local and growth. Going forward we must to back above the national average. economic growth. maintain this momentum and continue The gap between workplace wages The Enterprise Zone will be launched in to work towards our vision for the and the national average wage is April 2017 and its designation has Borough to be great place to live, work narrowing. already helped to attract new business and visit” Skills levels are rising and the gap between the South East average and Key successes as part of this plan to date include: Maidstone is narrowing. A public-private Town Centre Strategic Board has been established. The Economic Development Strategy A £3m public realm scheme has been commissioned for the north end of Week has five priorities: Street and Gabriel’s Hill. Retaining and attracting investment The owner of The Mall is making significant investment in the shopping centre. Stimulating entrepreneurship £2.5m has been secured to improve Maidstone East ticket office and Enhancing the town centre surrounding area. Meeting the skills needs We have begun a process of strategic acquisitions to reduce risk and shape the Improving the infrastructure medium and long term development in the Town Centre, including the Significant strides have been made to purchase of Granada House in Gabriel’s Hill. 4 Maidstone Borough Council Gateway Move

We’re preparing for some big changes location; however, it's normally quicker more joined up service for the local to The Gateway in Maidstone town and more convenient to go to our community. Residents will be able to centre. Currently residents are able to website or call us. speak to staff from Jobcentre Plus who speak to a number of different The changes to The Gateway building will be moving into the building from organisations at the glass building next include the construction of a their current location at County Gate to Boots in King Street. From October mezzanine floor and a more open plan One, Staceys Street. this year the council’s customer feel to ensure more services are able to Did you know? There are over 100 services team will be temporarily locate themselves at the building. moving to a unit in the Mall shopping When the works are completed in forms on our website which means you centre and The Gateway building will March 2017 Maidstone Borough can access our services in the comfort close for a period of time to make way Council staff will share the newly of your own home 24 hours a day! If you for building works to take place. refurbished Gateway space with need to order a garden bin or renew Residents will still be able to speak to colleagues from the Department for your parking permit you can do this via the council team just at a different Work and Pensions which will ensure a our website – www.maidstone.gov.uk Hearing sessions for Maidstone Local Plan will take place from October to December Dates for the hearing sessions for the Thursday 10 November independent examination of the Local Tuesday 15 November Plan have now been set. Wednesday 16 November The 19 sessions will take place at Thursday 17 November Maidstone Town Hall and will look at Friday 18 November various aspects of the Local Plan. (AM only) Tuesday 22 November Mr Robert Mellor, from the Planning Wednesday 23 November Inspectorate, has been appointed by the Secretary of State to carry out an Tuesday 29th November independent examination of the Local Wednesday 30 November Plan. Thursday 1 December Everyone who requested to take part The hearings will start at during our last Local Plan consultation 10am and most will last all in February will be invited along to the day. The ones on Friday 14 hearings. You'll find out which hearing October and Friday 18 you've been invited to in early August. November will end at You will also be sent copies of the lunchtime. Inspector's guidance notes, matters, Information will be posted issues and questions. on the examination pages Members of the public are welcome to of the Council’s website attend as observers but will not be able under the Hearing speak. Sessions tab. Paper copies of the The hearing dates are: Maidstone Borough Local Tuesday 4 October Plan (2016), the schedule Any queries about the examination or Wednesday 5 October of proposed changes, Statement of any correspondence to the Inspector Thursday 6 October Consultation, Sustainability Appraisal during the examination should be sent Tuesday 11 October and Habitats Regulations Assessment to Louise St John Howe, Programme Wednesday 12 October can be viewed at the Maidstone Gateway, Officer, PO Services, PO Box 10965, Thursday 13 October King Street, Maidstone, ME15 6JQ. The Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 3BF. You can Friday 14 October (AM only) opening hours are Monday 9am – also contact her by emailing Tuesday 8 November 5.30pm; Tuesday to Friday 9am – [email protected] or calling 07789 Wednesday 9 November 4.30pm. 486419. Maidstone Borough Council 5 YOUR KINDNESS COULD KILL Maidstone Borough Council is urging residents not to give their spare change to beggars in the town centre. The message is part of the ‘Your Kindness Could Kill’ campaign which aims to encourage shoppers to donate their spare change to homeless charities instead. A significant number of beggars in the town are not homeless and the money they are given is often used to buy alcohol or drugs which could ultimately kill them. Hard hitting posters are just one of the ways the borough council is using to get the message across and this forms part of a wider campaign aimed at supporting homeless people to get them off the streets.

If you give a beggar money today, they’ll probably be there tomorrow, next week, next month and probably next year. If you give money to a homeless charity they may be housed in a couple of months with their issues being addressed.

Chair of the Communities, Housing and Environment Committee Councillor Marion Ring says “This campaign is about getting people to support the homeless in a different way. Giving money to street beggars does not unfortunately help them or their situation in the long term. The way we can help is to work with many organisations, often charities, who offer support with addiction or providing assistance with accommodation and support. It is them who would benefit immensely from people’s kindness with the money going towards positive action to reduce homelessness.” Maidstone council’s Head of Housing and Community Services, John Littlemore, said: “It can be difficult for people to know whether a person who is begging is genuinely homeless. This campaign will hopefully highlight to people www.porchlight.org.uk how they can be part of making a change for the better without www.homelessinmaidstone.org.uk wasting their efforts. We work very closely with a number of www.maidstoneshelter.org.uk organisations such as Porchlight, Maidstone Day Centre, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust and the Kenward Trust to make people realise that if they give money to beggars they are keeping them in their way of life. It’s important we help genuine homeless people with their underlying problems and get them off the streets.” If you would like to donate to local homeless charities, visit www.porchlight.org.uk or www.homelessinmaidstone.org.uk. By gift aiding your donations, you can increase the amount received by these charities. News from the MUSEUM

Treasures from Trash 9 July — 10 September

Have fun upcycling and recycling from around the world, showing personal objects such as toys, ornaments, games and accessories, made from salvaged materials. Family upcycling activities in the gallery on Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays (small charge applies) Exhibition: Free

Kindly sponsored by Biffa

Keep in touch The museum has recently undergone a Summer Holiday Make It! programme of improvement works. Keep in touch and find news and information at Workshops in the Gallery Wednesday 3 - Friday 26 August www.maidstonemuseum.org, on twitter Activities: Weds, Thurs, Fri each week @MaidstoneMuseum or by emailing 10.30am - 12.30pm and 1pm — 3pm [email protected] Prices: £2 per child, 2 for £3 Suitable for ages 4 — 11 years. Join in one of these fun workshops in the Treasures from Trash gallery and use materials to create something individual! Different project each week. Make pictures frames, pots, bracelets and musical instruments. Museum Lates Last Thursday of every month Museum open until 9pm Lates activities start from 6pm

Museum Lates showcase, art, film dance, This season: history and more with a different theme 28 July - Ab Fab! each month for you to enjoy. 25 August — Film Night Trash Licensed café and bar. Our curators share a special insight into 29 September the theme’s collections and people are — Crime and Punishment Admission to museum is free; however, some able to choose from a range of activities. 27 October — Fright Night Museum Lates activities may incur a charge

More information on all upcoming exhibitions and events can be found at www.maidstonemuseum.org Bookings via 01622 602838. Maidstone Borough Council 7 RK9 Responsible Dog Ownership

No one can deny the pleasure that owning a dog can bring and the many Dates for your doggy diaries: ways in which pet ownership 30 July - Parkwood Fete - microchipping enriches our lives. Dogs have been considered one of man's best friends for 27 August - Coxheath Dogtastic thousands of years. The science 11 September - The Big Walkies charity event in supports this as it has long been recognised Mote Park that the companionship, comfort and the sense 17 – 18 September Paws in the Park of wellbeing provided by a pet can decrease loneliness, isolation and depression whilst engendering a sense of security and the desire Nice to see so many Responsible dog owners out there. to nurture among both adults and children We estimate well over 1,500 dog owners have attended the alike. Walking a dog has obvious health various events hosted in the borough and have benefitted benefits and often facilitates social from the advice we have given regarding changes in the law, interaction within the community; therefore it microchipping as well as other routine dog enquiries. is hardly surprising that it is widely believed that owning a dog We are delighted to be meeting so many of you and sharing is good for us! our knowledge whilst out and about. Our Responsible K9 (RK9) initiative supports this belief and Why not stay in touch by visiting the RK9 Facebook recognises that the majority of dog owners do behave page? responsibly, caring for pets and fulfilling both their legal and moral obligations. However, the same cannot be said of a www.facebook.com/ResponsibleK9s small minority of owners whose behaviour, and consequently the manner in which they allow their dogs to behave, is at best irresponsible and at worst, antisocial and in some instances, Bag that poo, any rubbish criminal. It is with this very much at heart and our desire to improve our bin will do! streets and local environment that we seek to promote and encourage responsible dog ownership, whilst also tackling We are set to launch a those antisocial behaviours that all too often give our much campaign to help educate loved pets a bad name. Our primary objectives are threefold: dog owners about how to Promote and celebrate responsible dog ownership clean up after their pet as changes to bins are made Empower neighbourhoods to tackle irresponsible dog across the borough. ownership Residents can now dispose Reduce dog fouling, number of strays and dog related anti- of their dog poo in any litter social behaviour bins in the borough, What have we achieved to date this year? including those in parks but Over the last year, because of the recent changes in the message is – just make legislation around microchipping, we have attended and sure it’s bagged before it hosted a number of events to raise awareness and promote goes in! responsible ownership. We want to make it as easy as possible for dog owners to 8 events attended so far in 2016 dispose of their pets’ poo. Any responsible dog owner will always ensure this is bagged up and put into the nearest 400 dogs microchipped in partnership with the Dog’s Trust. bin. This won’t change but they can now put it into any 150 dog tags sold at events litter bin as well. Our dog shows have raised over £700 for charities such as Look out for further information at www.maidstone.gov.uk Battersea Home for Dogs and Cats. Injecting the ‘colour’ back into local community play areas.

A number of well-loved local parks are We are also delighted to announce that receiving a much needed facelift in time Clare Park has retained its Green Flag for summer fun. status with an outstanding score of As part of the phased scheme of park between 70 - 74%. improvements the following areas were The park was Maidstone’s first green identified and selected for the initial phase space to be awarded this recognition of work: and benefits from a range of family- Whatman Skate Area, Peverel Drive, friendly amenities including multi- Stratford Drive, Foxden Drive, Gatland purpose games area, woodland and Lane, Timber Tops, , Adisham Drive, St conservation areas, hard footpaths, Francis Close, Gallants Lane and Albert Reed Garden benches, public toilets and family picnic areas. All works are due to be completed by the end of July in time We hope you’ll continue to enjoy using these brighter, for the summer holidays. cleaner and more inviting areas for many years to come. 8 Maidstone Borough Council

Time to improve our recycling efforts in Maidstone Do you know what you can and cannot put in your green bin?

We are concentrating our efforts to help improve recycling across the borough. Recycling the right things is really important. Putting the wrong items in your recycling containers can cause problems at the recycling facility. It may even result in a whole recycling lorry being rejected. Rejected loads must be sent for disposal, which spoils the efforts you have made to recycle. Recently we have been focused on reminding all Your green bin likes… residents to think All plastic bottles about what they can and can’t put in their Plastic food containers green bin. Glass bottles and jars Cardboard Paper Cartons Foil and metal tins/cans Empty Aerosols

Did you know?

Between April 2015 and March 2016 we recycled and composted over 50% of the waste collected from residents homes. This is a fantastic amount however we are keen to recycle and compost even more and know that still a lot of recyclable Your green bin material is ending up in resident’s rubbish bins. The national target for re-use, recycling and doesn’t like… composting is 50% by 2020. Maidstone Borough Carrier bags Council has set its own target to exceed this and are Textiles aiming for 55%. Food Of all of the waste collected in Maidstone last Nappies year, 65% remained in Kent, 83% in the UK and only 17% being sent outside of the UK to Black Sacks other countries. The recyclable materials Plastic film and cling film which were sent abroad for reprocessing were used to make new products. For more information about the recycling services visit www.maidstone.gov.uk Maidstone Borough Council 9

All that g-litters really is gold for lucky residents

Twelve lucky residents proved that they really do ‘Love Kent, Hate Litter’ and won super prizes in our golden bins competition. Two of our litter bins were sprayed gold and placed at various locations around the borough in the spring. Residents were then invited to send us photographs of themselves, a friend or family member using it to dispose of litter. The winners, drawn at random, were Marcin Dudkowski, Lena Palmer, Geraldine Lawrence, Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Jack Bromley, Ellen Charman, Gemma Newton, Gaynor Negus, Joanne Colston, Evie Hayes, Connor Hall and Barbara Dunford. Each wins a £50 shopping voucher for The Mall shopping centre as a thank you for helping to keep the borough a beautiful place to live. The prizes were paid for with income from fixed penalty notices issued for littering in the borough. This is income also reinvested in litter education and street cleaning equipment. Martyn Jeynes, Maidstone Council’s Environmental Enforcement Manager, said: “Maidstone residents really do take pride in keeping the borough litter free. We’re delighted that we were able to say thank you through the golden bins promotion.”

Coming Home: Conflict and Care in 1916 - The Battle of the Somme 100 years on As we commemorate the centenary of between September 2016 to early the Battle of the Somme it seems only January 2017. appropriate that Maidstone Museum The free exhibition features two has programmed a number of events to paintings by Frank Hyde of 1916 from mark the occasion as part of their the museum’s collection – ‘Trones autumn season spanning the months Wood’, a battle scene from the Somme and ‘Arrival of a Convoy of Wounded Soldiers at Maidstone East.’ The defences across Kent on land, sea and exhibition will explore the experiences air during the First World War of the people within the paintings and ‘If the Kaiser Should Come’ on promises to be both insightful and Saturday 8 October 2pm – 3pm, tickets: emotive. £5, concession: £4 per person There will also be an opportunity to Booking for this event is strongly hear a talk given by the military advised. historian Victor Smith about the Event booking line:01622 602838 Your Councillors East Ward Martin Cox 2016 - 2017 01622 688945 [email protected] Nikki Fissenden Boxley Ward 01622 755494 Conservatives [email protected] Derek Butler Liberal Democrats David Naghi 01634 684854 [email protected] 01622 678410 Labour [email protected] Independent Malcom Greer 01634 862876 Fant Ward UK Independence Party [email protected] Keith Adkinson Wendy Hinder 01622 201976 01634 861579 [email protected] Allington Ward [email protected] Matt Boughton Dan Daley Bridge Ward 07795 192042 01622 672459 [email protected] [email protected] Georgia Harvey Paul Harper [email protected] Diana Lewins 01622 763895 01622 766075 [email protected] [email protected] David Pickett Harrietsham and Cynthia Robertson 01622 681889 [email protected] Ward 01622 753517 [email protected] Coxheath and Hunton Janetta Sams Ward 01622 859412 Barming Ward [email protected] Emily Fermor Tom Sams Fay Gooch 07809 472788 01622 726608 [email protected] 01622 859412 [email protected] [email protected] Brian Mortimer Bearsted Ward 01622 746046 Headcorn Ward [email protected] Mike Cuming Richard Webb Shellina Prendergast shellinaprendergast@ 01622 738825 01622 745716 [email protected] maidstone.gov.uk [email protected] Mike Revell Martin Round Detling and Thurnham 01622 633126 01622 890276 [email protected] Ward [email protected] Val Springett Nick de Wiggondene Heath Ward 01622 737702 01622 200222 [email protected] [email protected] Bryan Vizzard 07957 442994 Boughton Monchelsea and Otham [email protected] and Ward Ward James Willis Steve Munford Gordon Newton 07838 103350 01622 741310 01622 862330 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] High Street Ward Park Wood Ward Sutton Valence and Langley Ward Clive English Matthew Burton Paulina Stockell 07922 616858 07793 243462 [email protected] [email protected] 01622 842508 [email protected] Denise Joy Jade Webster 01622 674063 07590 592916 [email protected] [email protected] Fran Wilson Shepway North Ward Service Committees 01622 673349 [email protected] Policy and Resources Simon Ells Chairman: Fran Wilson Leeds Ward 07980 068792 Vice Chairman: Annabelle Blackmore [email protected] Communities, Housing and Environment Gill Fort Christopher Garland Chairman: Marion Ring Vice Chairman: Derek Mortimer 01622 861605 07903 113571 [email protected] [email protected] Heritage, Culture and Leisure Chairman: David Pickett Vice Chairman: Gordon Newton Loose Ward Marion Ring 01622 686492 Strategic Planning, Sustainability and Transport Susan Grigg [email protected] Chairman: David Burton Vice Chairman: Susan Grigg 07706 052495 [email protected] Shepway South Ward Marden and Yalding Eddie Powell Other Committees Ward 01622 851983 [email protected] Planning Annabelle Blackmore Chairman: John Perry Vacant Vice Chairman: Clive English 01622 833299 annabelleblackmore@maidstone. Licensing gov.uk Chairman: Denise Joy Vice Chairman: David Naghi David Burton Employment 07590 229910 South Ward Chairman: Martin Cox [email protected] Vice Chairman: Fay Gooch Brian Clark Steve McLoughlin Audit, Governance and Standards 07963 757767 Chairman: Steve McLoughlin 07711 565489 [email protected] Vice Chairman: Clive English [email protected] Democracy Derek Mortimer Chairman: Matt Boughton 07825 916930 Vice Chairman: Nikki Fissenden North Downs Ward [email protected] Maidstone Joint Transportation Board Chairman: Eric Hotson (KCC) Patrik Garten Paul Wilby Vice Chairman: David Burton 01622 807907 07949 769276 [email protected] [email protected]

There are 55 Councillors: North Ward Staplehurst Ward • Conservative 23 Tony Harwood Louise Brice • Liberal Democrat 22 01622 677578 01580 892141 • Independent 5 [email protected] [email protected] • Labour 2 • UK Independence Party 2 Michelle Hastie John Perry • Vacancy 1 [email protected] 07770 734741 [email protected] Michael Hemsley 01622 686773 [email protected] 12 Maidstone Borough Council Working for you

Victoria Barlow Victoria is the recently appointed Museums Director working across a number of the museums in Maidstone

What is the most difficult aspect of your everyday role? Being patient. I’ve got loads of ideas and things I want to do, and so have the team, but we have to go about them in a planned way making sure we are using our time and resources to the best effect. What does your job involve? I’m responsible for the three museums run by MBC. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? They are Maidstone Museum and Bentlif Art Gallery At the moment all my spare time seems to be filled and the Queens Own West Kent Regimental Museum with unpacking boxes as I moved from Berkshire to (both in our main site on Faith Street) and the take this job! Tyrwhitt-Drake Carriage Museum housed at the What’s your favourite food? Archbishop’s Palace Stables. Chinese, or cake! I look after the museums, collections and staff. I am Which country have you always wanted to visit and responsible for setting the future direction of travel for why? our museums and making the modern, fun and I’d like to visit Russia. I spent a week in Moscow as a relevant to our customers and communities. teenager but I’d really like to travel around the What do you most enjoy about your role? massively contrasting areas. I’m fascinated by the I’ve joined the service at a very exciting time for the history of the country and its literature and they’ve got museums. We’ve had a period of upheaval and are some amazing museums. now ready to start the fun work of modernising and If you had to pick a character to be from a book, TV becoming more welcoming, adventurous and series or historical figure, who would it be and why? collaborative. As well as the displays and activities Jessica Fletcher from Murder She Wrote. My heroine. developing, I’m looking forward to seeing my team’s ideas become reality. No two days are ever the same Pick one word to describe yourself. and I’m surrounded by dinosaurs. Serene – it’s not at all accurate but I can wish.

Borough Update Follow us on Twitter This is your council newsletter, Your comments and suggestions @maidstonebc produced up to four times a year are always welcome. It is in the Downs Mail newspaper. It typeset by AW design and printed Like us on Facebook – is written, edited and designed by Newbury News. www.facebook.com/ by the council's communications If you are visually impaired and maidstoneboroughcouncil team, Maidstone House, King would like the newsletter text in Street, Maidstone, Kent ME15 large print, please call us on Watch us on YouTube – 6JQ. Email: 01622 602176, and we will be www.youtube.com/ [email protected]. happy to send you a copy. user/maidstonecouncil

What’s On! To find out what’s on in Maidstone Borough visit www.visitmaidstone.com downsmail.co.uk News Drivers on hard shoulder in ban

DRIVERS illegally using the mo- while using the hard shoulder were torway hard shoulder to dodge reported for summons. traffic jams are being targeted by A number of car registration police. numbers were also noted for fol- Officers patrolling Kent’s motor- low-up enquiries and prosecutions ways – including the M20 and M2 – where appropriate. have slapped court action on some Superintendent Mat Newton Police at the scene of the murder of Roy motorists this summer. said: “Driving on the hard shoulder Blackman, inset They could now face up to £2,500 is illegal and could easily lead to in fines and three penalty points on collisions with vehicles that have their licence or even a ban. stopped in an emergency situation Murder suspects freed Drivers on the M2 trying to skip or who have broken down. past a lorry fire on Friday, July 22, “It also puts lives at significant FOUR men suspected of involvement in the murder of widower are among those hit with action. risk. Roy Blackman have been released without charge. Police had closed the carriage- “Drivers who commit these of- It means only Mark Love (38), of Road, Staplehurst, ways to protect emergency services fences will be reported for sum- will now face trial at Maidstone Crown Court on September 5. and other road users but some mo- mons and could receive a driving The four others who had been arrested as part of the police in- torists used the hard shoulder, al- disqualification. vestigation and were due back on bail on July 28 are free. most blocking an approaching fire “In addition to enforcement, A 52-year-old man arrested on suspicion of handling stolen engine. Kent Police also works closely with goods and assisting an offender had previously been released The following week, emergency partner agencies to encourage good without charge. services dealing with a crash on the driving behaviour.” The body of 73-year-old retired mechanic Mr Blackman, of Bid- M2 were obstructed by cars using  Driving on the hard shoulder denden, was discovered at his bungalow in March. the hard shoulder to avoid queues. carries a minimum of three Eight men were arrested during the police investigation. One One car delayed the arrival of a penalty points and a £100 fine, was shot dead by officers while on bail. recovery vehicle, further delaying but drivers face a discretionary Love denies the charge of murdering Roy Blackman and of a other drivers in the queue. disqualification and a maximum separate offence of aggravated burglary in Rye. Those drivers stopped by police fine of £2,500 by magistrates. Kent Police confirmed the four men released without charge in- cluded a 41-year-old and a 49-year-old, both of whom had ad- For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk dresses in Maidstone.

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Maidstone South August 2016 23 News | Ramblin’ Man Fair downsmail.co.uk

Band T-shirts and shades were the order of the day for the majority of festival-goers at Ramblin’ Man Fair in Mote Park, Maidstone Pictures: Andy Archer Rockers Ramblin’ in park MAIDSTONE’S second encounter with the Ramblin’ Man Fair in Mote Park was a larger and nois- ier affair than last year. Downs Mail reporter Neil Nixon was there... With huge crowds and great weather, the festival offered a host of the best-known names in classic rock and progressive music. Whitesnake, who headlined on the main stage on the Saturday night, drew one of the biggest crowds of the weekend. There were three other stages, all popular with the crowd, many of whom were camping on site. The queues to get in on Saturday were long – a consequence of a rush of late bookings which occurred when festival-goers saw the long term weather forecast and an unex- pectedly high number of ticket hold- Acts included David Coverdale with Whitesnake (above) and below left, Rosalie Cunningham, lead singer with Purson ers arriving as the gates opened. Many of them had waited for with the Prog stage looking down more than an hour as event staff out- the Len Valley. It was a welcome in- side in the park dealt with the novation, which largely dealt with crowd. Organisers took to social the problem of the Outlaw stage for media to apologise for the delay. blues and country acts being Inside, the event offered an addi- drowned out. tional stage to last year – the Rising Most of the festival goers seemed stage featured up and coming bands. to appreciate the standard of the per- There was also a greater range of formances and the other attractions. merchandise and attractions, includ- Some revellers came from a great ing a wall of death motorcycle ride. distance, with one group having Another notable change saw more come from Frankfurt while the young fans among the crowd, de- event’s Facebook page mentioned a spite many of the acts having their ticket holder who had travelled first chart hits in the 60s and 70s. Philadelphia. This year the main festival ground Another Ramblin’ Man Fair is moved slightly south and higher, planned for July 29&30 2017.

24 Maidstone South January 2014 downsmail.co.uk News Stones deliver screen messages

AS THE new football season kicks Club chief executive Bill Williams us and help their visibility by be- off, Maidstone United fans can said: “This screen will really add to coming screen advertisers.” enjoy seeing their name in lights. the quality of the match day experi- Icom managing director John The Gallagher Stadium is getting ence at Maidstone United and give Donoghue added: “We are delighted a large LED screen for the new cam- us a new outlet for companies wish- to be sponsors of the screen. paign. ing to advertise at the stadium, as all “In our business, we know the im- It will display the score and time our traditional perimeter boards portance of good communications during the match, with advertising have now sold out. and how technology can enhance it. and club messages before and after “We have almost covered the in- This new addition will give a more the game, as well as half time. stallation costs. There is still room for professional look to the place and be A screen similar to the one to be Measuring four metres by three a few more local companies to help highly visible for advertisers.” installed at the Gallagher Stadium metres, it will be on the riverside boundary – offering good visibility for most spectators. The screen is similar to the one in- Window of opportunity for sponsorship deal stalled at fellow Vanarama National League club Aldershot Town. MAIDSTONE United has signed an Dominic Baxter extension to its sponsorship deal With a full colour display updated (in suit) of in real-time, LED displays can also with Britelite Windows. The agreement will see the Britelite with, allow videos to be shown. These can from left, Vas include replays of goals plus match company continue its support of Karagiannis, Kevin highlights at half-time or even fan the Stones until the end of the announcements, such as birthdays 2017/18 season. Lokko, Stones and marriage proposals. Britelite, which has been manager Jay Aylesford-based telecoms and se- associated with the Vanarama Saunders, Dumebi curity company Icom, who spon- National League newcomers for Dumaka and Ben more than 40 years, returned as sored the club a few seasons ago, are Greenhalgh main sponsor in 2011. sponsoring the screen, due to be in- Club chief executive Bill Williams Britelite director Dominic Baxter start a season in the top flight of stalled in September. added: "We are so fortunate to said: "We are delighted to extend non-league football and playing in Advertising slots are now on sale have a main sponsor like Britelite our sponsorship with Maidstone front of crowds of more than 2,000. and because the message can be Windows. They have been with us United. When we became main "We have really benefitted from changed regularly, it is a cost-effec- on this incredible journey and we sponsor again, the club were our association with the club, which tive way of letting crowds of more couldn't have asked for better playing 12 miles out of town, but has helped raise awareness of the than 2,000 spectators know about partners during that time." here we are five years on about to Britelite brand.” events or special offers. T. 01622 201078 J.L.B M.07854 529434 Property Maintenance [email protected] Quality Roofing at Affordable Prices New Tiled Roofs UPVC Fascias, General Roofing Soffits & Repairs Guttering Moss Removal Felt Flat Roofing Annual Gutter Cleaning Service Gutters & Fascia Cleaned To A High Standard Inside And Out All Repairs Broken Brackets Undertaken..... Leaking Gutter Joints Down Pipes So To Ensure Your Gutters Are Flowing Prices Start From As Little As £20.00 Blockage Free This Winter Call Our Team For A Free & Friendly Quote

Maidstone South August 2016 25 downsmail.co.uk News 999 service has ‘serious failings’

THE ambulance service covering spector of hospitals, said: “People Kent has been issued with safety who rely on South East Coast Am- warnings over its operations, by bulance Service NHS Foundation health regulator, the Care Quality Trust are entitled to an ambulance Commission (CQC). service that is consistently safe, ef- The inspectorate told South East fective and responsive to their Coast Ambulance Service NHS needs. Foundation Trust (SECAmb) to “On the evidence of our inspec- Diner staff clean up river put things right by September 10. tion, we have found that patients It will publish a full report of its were not receiving the quality of STAFF from McDonald's in Maidstone have been doing their bit to spruce findings in the near future. care that they are entitled to ex- up the town centre’s riverside. SECAmb apologised for serious pect, or within timescales re- Around 20 volunteers from three branches took in the Love Where You failings, saying it was already quired. Live scheme, cleaning and clearing the towpaths from Lockmeadow Mil- working hard to address the issues lennium Bridge. “We have told the trust that it raised by the CQC following its in- The event was organised by the Maidstone River Park Partnership, a new must improve and treat patients in spection in May, and would con- community group dedicated to improving and promoting the Maidstone's a timely manner with care, dignity tinue to do so over the coming greatest natural asset. It was supported by Maidstone Borough Council months. and respect. We will continue to and the Medway Valley Countryside Partnership. Six areas of concern were high- monitor the trust closely, and will Ali El Hajj, who owns the three Maidstone McDonald's franchises, said: lighted by the CQC, including that be returning in the near future to "We are delighted to be part of this and my staff really enjoyed getting NHS 111 calls were not always re- check that it has taken appropriate stuck in and making a difference to the local community. sponded to on time and in an ef- action to address these immediate "The path outside the Archbishops Palace looks so much better. By cut- fective manner. issues.” ting back and clearing trees, it has opened up a lovely view of the river Maintenance of equipment, sys- Geraint Davies, the trust’s acting and the Millennium Bridge. We're proud of what we've done in a short tems to ensure there were enough chief executive, said: “We know space of time." staff and arrangements to assess, there is a lot the trust needs to do Ian Tucker, from the River Park Partnership, added: "A big thank you to monitor and improve the quality to improve compliance with a McDonald's, Maidstone Council and the Medway Valley Countryside Part- and safety of services were also number of systems and processes nership for all their help. People walking along the riverside were saying criticised by the CQC. to ensure the safety of our pa- how much better it looked and that's what we wanted to achieve." Mike Richards, CQC’s chief in- tients.” ARTIFICIAL UPTO 20% GRASS SALE OFF

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Maidstone South August 2016 27 Kent County Show downsmail.co.uk Cream of the crops at 87th annual farming showpiece

MORE than 80,000 people flocked to this year’s Kent County Show – signifi- cantly up on 2015, said or- ganisers. Stallholders, competitors, businesses and visitors came from across the coun- try to take part in the 87th show. The attendance was around 3,000 up on last year’s figure, helped in part by the dry and sometimes sunny weather. A show spokesman said: “The feedback that we have had from those who took part and those who came to visit has been extremely positive. The overall atmos- phere across the three days was great. Freya Wiseman and Phoebe Smith from Valley Park School’s farm in Maid- “We’re looking forward Bella Fish (21) of Bearsted tested some of stone to next year now.” the county’s produce in the soft fruit tent

Fruit-grower Suzie Kember (29) of Marden, who won two prizes for strawber- Mid Kent Fuchsia Group’s Jo Shan, of Staplehurst, and Ken Shelton, of Ayles- ries and raspberries ford The Bishop of Dover (right) Trevor Willmott beside champion cherries

Lauren and Aimee (left) of Cobtree Young Farmers’ club in Maidstone

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Maidstone South August 2016 29 downsmail.co.uk Jenny Hurwi Jean Messham Stewart Brown Obituaries JENNY Hurwi (98) lived locally from 1960, JEAN Messham (84) who has died in Totnes, STEWART Brown (78) lived in the Square making homes in Doddington and Langley Devon will be well remembered locally from Hill area of Maidstone for 32 years and before spending her final years in Beauworth around 18 years of teaching. before that in Yeoman Way, Bearsted. Park, off Willington Street, Maidstone. She was initially a supply teacher and then Born and raised in Staplehurst, Stewart Prior to this Jenny a member of staff at Sandling County worked for Mid-Kent Water and was had lived in Rainham, Primary School in Maidstone. Born Jean involved for a long time with local Scouting. Boxley and Strood. Roberts in Wales, she grew up and went to He retired from Mid-Kent Water when the Born Jenny Elvy, she teacher training college before moving to the organisation changed and South East Water trained as a nurse and Maidstone area with husband of 56 years, became the company covering the area. began work before Ted. Stewart was married to Margaret for 49 marrying Jack and He worked as a brickworks manager in years, the couple would have celebrated raising children Claire, Ryarsh and Pluckley. The couple raised their golden wedding in September. They Maureen, Andy, daughters, Nikki and raised sons David and Jonathan. Felicity (“Lizzie”) and Jo. Margaret said: “Stewart was very Greg. Jo said: “My mother supportive of me and our sons in the local When Jenny was widowed in 1959, her five taught locally from Scouting movement and helped in every children were aged between one and 11 1974 and, for years way he could. At the two services we held, years old. She had help from her mother afterwards, she would more than 200 people turned up. with childcare and re-trained to gain higher meet her former “Just over 19 years ago, Stewart received a nursing qualifications. pupils in the street Pride of Maidstone Award from Cllr Morel Jenny worked as nurse in charge of elderly who would often stop D'Souza for his services to Scouting.” care at Linton Hospital and took an active and chat. She always Stewart leaves his wife, sons, daughter-in- role in helping the patients, some of whom regarded teaching as law Erika and grandchildren Joseph and had lived in the hospital since its earlier days important and had the Anneka. as a workhouse. ability to bring the best out of children, Claire said: “My mother was dedicated to however they learned. everyone she looked after, from her own “She was caring and capable in her work Jackie Atkinson children to the hospital patients. In the case and was heavily involved in school events JACQUELINE “Jackie” Atkinson (80) of the patients, she worked hard to get them such as plays and music. She played the lived with husband David in Barming for 52 out and give them more active lives. piano for those events. years. “She worked hard at fundraising for the “To her pupils and to her family she was a Born Jacqueline Collins and raised in residents, including making soft toys to sell lovely woman who did a lot for others. After Marden, Jackie worked for Atcost in Paddock at fairs. She would give her last penny to she retired she was involved with a choir Wood as a receptionist someone who needed it more. which sang to raise money for the Heart of and telephonist for a “When she retired from the NHS at 60, she Kent Hospice.” number of years. She went to work for Marie Curie Nursing Care, Jean and Ted moved to Devon to be near Jo met David through his staying with them until she was 75. This in October 2015. brother, who also meant she needed to drive to visit Jean leaves her husband, daughters and worked at Atcost, and terminally-ill patients, so she passed her grandchildren Owen, Emily and Ed. the couple raised driving test at the age of 60. She was a children Carole and wonderful mother and grandmother.” Penny. Jackie did Jenny leaves her children, grandchildren Owain Boughtwood temping work as the Chris, Alex, Astrid and Toby and great- THE death in a road accident near his home children grew up. grandchildren Zac and Mia. in the Canterbury area of local footballer and David said: “Jackie was a happy and hard- cricketer Owain Boughtwood (21) has working person, a dedicated mother and drawn tributes from those who knew him. someone who loved her family. We enjoyed Cherry Fann Owain was two years through an under- music and went to all kinds of performances, THE village of Staplehurst has been united graduate degree at including classical music and popular stars in mourning the death of Cherry Fann (82). Santa Clara Univer- like James Last and Guy Mitchell. Born Cherry Grant in Cheam, Surrey, she sity, California. “Jackie used to communicate with Roy moved as a girl to Seaton, Devon, whre her He had been in- Hudd and he would make a point of telling parents were publicans. Her husband, volved in sport across us when he was performing in our area.” Michael Fann, spent a holiday from Kent. As a footballer Jackie leaves her husband, daughters, Cambridge University working in the pub he played for Folke- grandchildren Kate and Adam and great- and the pair married in 1956, going on to stone Invicta and Ash- grandchildren Oakley, Laken, Jax and raise four daughters. ford and represented Primrose. The family lived in Staplehurst from 1972, the county of Kent. in a house called Lindridge on the Marden Owain was the Road, for 20 years before converting and youngest of six children and a family state- Daphne Tamkin moving in to the neighbouring barn. ment has talked of his place among his THE death has been announced in Cherry was heavily involved in “large, loving family” and praised his pres- Sandbach, Cheshire of Daphne Jane Tamkin community life, working as a librarian at ence as a “fun-loving uncle” to his nine (89), formerly of Pevington Farm, Egerton. Staplehurst, Marden and Coxheath and nieces and nephews. Daphne was married to the late Bill running activities such as the Staplehurst Tamkin and was a mother, grandmother and Good Companions’ Club and the Age great-grandmother. Her funeral took place in Concern Friday Club in Coxheath. Caroline Cornell Cheshire. Cherry was chairman of the Staplehurst THE death has been announced in Swansea, Society and became its honorary life after a short illness, of Caroline Cornell (51). president on retirement. She co-authored a Born Caroline Leigh she grew up mainly The Stone Shop book on Staplehurst – a pictorial history in Coxheath and aended Cornwallis School based on old postcards – and was involved before moving to Somerset after her Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, in organising annual clean-ups removing marriage. At the time of her death she was lettered and installed anywhere. rubbish from country lanes in the area. living in Camarthen, South Wales. Inscriptions added to existing memorials In her tenure as a parish councillor from Renovations and memorial 1987 to 1995, she helped to oversee the cleaning conversion of the former school into a village Bob Espley centre. The Stone Shop Cherry leaves her husband, three THE death has been reported in Horsham, Station Hill, , Kent. surviving daughters and 13 grandchildren. West Sussex of former Maidstone resident, Bob Espley (72). 01622 726633

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Maidstone South August 2016 31 downsmail.co.uk Comment Now let’s make Brexit work WE in Maidstone (59%) and Malling negotiations to impact significantly on (56%) voted decisively in support of the Mail any of these desires – it is in no one’s UK (52%) leaving the EU. Marks interest that they should. I see us co- I declared in this column early on for DENNIS FOWLE President operating with our friends in Europe in so Brexit and firmly believe it is the right many ways – but we will not be decision for the future of our country, [email protected] controlled by the EU. specifically for our county of Kent, next I expect the British decision and the generations and long-term relations with were surprised but they agree the UK has wishes of people of other European other European countries not fallen out with their country or countries to lead to major changes in the We were warned of early concerns, residents – just with the EU. I liked one EU itself in the next few years. I think setbacks and losses and in these early message: “The Entente Cordiale is as more will want to restore total national days of uncertainty some have arisen, strong as ever.” sovereignty while retaining much of the partly driven by the damaging Project I am delighted Britain is to regain common market we voted for so many Fear during campaigning. But as we all complete sovereignty. This will bring years ago. start to sele to our independence from many changes to benefit our country and The massive waves of the past few the EU, green shoots are quickly I think will be evident in business weeks have been surprising, but emerging both in UK and, very confidence (with much-reduced fascinating. A new prime minister and significantly, from major trading bureaucracy) to lift employment and cabinet are now in post. I wish them well countries across the world including wealth opportunities. on difficult tasks ahead. Canada, China, Australia, India, Japan, Most of all I welcome controlled I am very optimistic. But I have friends New Zealand…. immigration. We suffer in so many ways angry and worried about the Leave vote. Once we accept the challenges of from population growth in Mid Kent – Once the dust has seled I believe it will leaving and turn our minds to massive new housing; overcrowded work out well for most. All of us drink to opportunities, I believe there will be few roads; not enough school places close to that. long-term losers and many winners. I our homes; our GPs, social services, This is a golden chance for Britain. We expected my own modest investment hospitals under immense pressures… must all aim now to make Brexit work. portfolio to suffer: in parts it has, but the Nothing swung the Brexit vote more. FTSE 100 boomed in the weeks following There are big challenges ahead – but we Final Brexit letter the vote and some shares have really shall be in control. Dear Sir – Downs Mail inspired our taken off. I do not panic! I do not buy an accusation from some family talks on Brexit (leers, May) and, Our government appears now to have young people that we have ruined their three weeks after the vote, all 10 of us recovered from the shock of a powerful future – and nor do many in their 20s that across three generations are confident democratic vote and ministers rightly I speak to. They want close relations with about our vote to Leave. turn their minds to maximising potential. countries and people of Europe, to have We have agreed to meet every June 23 So do many businesses. I expect a lot of easy travel and to work in these countries to review our decisions – we call it good news ahead. if they wish. Independence Day. P.D., Bearsted I hear from friends in Europe. Many I do not expect forthcoming

New homes will hit traffic have already challenged the borough Castle’s support is vital council’s assertion that the traffic impacts REFERENCE the ongoing issue of can be mitigated. I READ with interest the piece about Sir Maidstone Borough Council’s house- No one denies there has to be housing to David Steel’s assertion that ticket dodgers building programme. meet the national shortfall, and every may prevent good causes being supported It was with not a lile disquiet I read that council in the country has to do its bit. by Leeds Castle. I hope it never happens. there are three more developments planned Langley Park as a location is not the The castle has always been reasonably for the Suon Road site, around the worst place in the world for housing, but visible in community life. Most of us love existing Langley Park development. only if sufficient thought had been given to the castle, don’t mind its 600,000 visitors or Considering that many of the houses how the roads in particular could cope. the enormous annual events it stages but it already built there are not occupied or sold No one wants a major housing might be perceived as a public relations and the traffic is already appalling during development on their doorstep and one has blooper to pull out of local good causes. the peak times of day, one can only to feel for the residents there and for the G Edwards, email imagine that maers will severely worsen people of Otham, who will see their should the applications become a reality. beautiful lile village changed irrevocably. Surely, given the sensitivity of the One has to admire Maidstone Borough Clear benefit to tourism applications, the pressure on infrastructure, Council for its determination to plough schools, GP practices and so on, these ahead with its housing plans, but one REGARDING theproposal for a £5m five- should have been left to the government would hope that by the time the star spa hotel scheme in Maidstone, has the planning inspector to determine rather than government planning inspector comes to planning committee met to discuss the barging it though the council’s commiee look at all of the proposals in the local plan, tourism aspect of the proposed hotel? stages? it may be a timely punctuation mark in this Surely it must be obvious it would be an Anyone who has to drive along the passage. asset to the town, which has so many unused Suon Road in the mornings will know Hopefully, there will be a pause for and boarded up properties. what pressure is now building in that area. consideration and reflection about moves Ciaran O’Quigley is willing to build this This is only likely to get immeasurably which will change the fabric of our town hotel and is being prevented from doing so worse. forever. because of Maidstone’s conservation officer Kent County Council’s highways experts W McMaster, by email Mike Parkinson, who suggests it would cause Contact our team ... Got something to say? Simon Finlay Diane Nicholls Dawn Kingsford Write to The Editor, 2 Forge House, Editor Assistant editor Journalist Bearsted Green Business Park, Maidstone ME14 4DT or email simon.fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] simon.fi[email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233

32 Maidstone South August 2016 Comment Crime reports 33 , and August 2016

South .

Staplehurst , but nothing . Maidstone ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Staplehurst Staplehurst Watch CALL 01622 880751 Staplehurst ALARM NOT WORKING? WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS There is nothing wrong with running The means of smuggling illicit goods into To be honest, with their colour TVs and Perhaps if prison regimes were harsher – At present, there is none. Modern prisons I returned at about 5pm and the Cllr Dan Daley says traffic flows in and So drivers: if you can't be bothered to A fork lift truck was stolen from a A home was broken into in Iden A garage was broken into at a home in A window was smashed on a Range businesses well, but there iswrong something with businesses running prisons. B McGann, via email Toughen up on inmates I READ with interest yourprevalence article of about drugs the in Maidstone Prison. modern prisons are sophisticated these days, with the use offavourite. drones a particular mod cons to keep themwonder occupied, Her it Majesty’s is guests a require further stimulation. ie no privileges – andin sentences full, adhered there to might be a deterrent factor. are holiday camps, often rundriven by companies profit- who cut corners to make Learn to enjoy traffic jams I WALKED passedjunction the of lights the at A20 the andabout Hermitage 10am Lane one at morning andwas the flowing traffic fine. congestion was terrible. However, without these lights, no one wouldout ever of get the in “McDonalds or Estate”.reasons The for the congestion areonly that one there person is per car,at everyone work arrives or school ateveryone the leaves same work time or and schooltime. at Are the drivers same not capabletheir of journey making earlier or later? out of Barming station withouttraffic the lights. need Wrong. for The trafficout cannot of get Barming station between5.30pm 4pm because and Hermitage Lane is gridlocked. However, this was happening before the McDonald’s estate was built. walk, bike or bus –through or – think your learn journey toAlan enjoy Nevill, your via traffic email jams. a beer boom line. Rover parked on a drivewayRoad, in Marden building site in Bell Lane, later recovered nearby. Crescent, appeared to have been taken. Poyntell Road, . . Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police . . but nothing . Linton East Farleigh Coxheath . Marden . Marden, . . . Loose Coxheath Marden It’s a place for our eldest daughter, Last year I trekked up Ben Nevis as part I love walking, so it was right up my It was fantastic – more than I hoped it You can find out more at Demelza is now looking for people to It will be an experience you will never A vehicle was broken into in Heath Statues of Pandora and Venus were Cash, jewellery and a camera has been There was an aempt to break into a A vehicle was damaged in Holmesdale A vehicle was stolen from Summerhill Items were stolen from a garden in A shed was broken into at a house in An MG ZR was damaged in North Street, Neighbourhood Working to reduce crime Claire Turner and Stanley effort. We had never metbut each we other all before had something in common. take on a triathlon orDistrict a as trek part in of the itschallenge Lake next next Demelza May 101 (2017) andurge I’d you like to to sign upamazing and for do them. something forget and you will be helping families like [email protected] or 01795 845249 Claire Turner, Demelza mum That’s a really big achievement. Harriet to go. She ha’sfriends made there, some she lovely loves it. of the Demelza 101 challengedoing as something my for way Demelza. of street. would be. I met someloved great every people minute and of I it.supported Everybody each other – it was a real team mine make things a lile bit easier. www.demelza.org.uk/challenges-and- events or by contacting Emma Cox on garden in Linton Hill, Road, stolen from the garden of a home in Georgian Drive, stolen from a house in Heath Road, Coxheath shed in Forge Lane, Close, Road, Hunton Road, Albion Road, appeared to have been taken. Headcorn . West . , and a . was broken Yalding . Linton . Nothing appeared . Boughton Monchelsea Yalding Yalding Collier Street Yalding Boughton Monchelsea . , damaging furniture and other . mail.co.uk

A shed was broken in to at allotments in A barn was set alight in Darman Lane, Demelza was the first place we were able Stanley loves the art room, he loves I have three other children, so being able He has a suction machine which he Stanley is very unsteady on his feet, he’s This condition is a fusion of the skull That the council is not accepting with open It would be interesting to know if the coun- The Catholic school Mr Parkinson refers to A vehicle was damaged whilst parked in A shed was broken into at a house in A stone donkey garden ornament A home in A garage was broken into at a home in Tools were stolen in a break-in at a shed Power tools were stolen from the shed of A small trailer was stolen from a A large, heavy statue was stolen from a to go swimming together as a family. the road in Vicarage Road, FRUIT was stolenKenward from Road, a farm field in items. High Street, Yalding music, he loves the computerplace room. for It making is special a memories. to come to Demelza Kentfor in a Siingbourne break means ahusband, lot Clint. to me and my needs with him at allairways times clear. to He keep needs his tothe be time, checked even all at nightevery from half anything an from hour towe every sleep 10 very minutes lightly. so partially blind in one eyediagnosed and with he global has development been delay.

which prevents it from growingIt normally. means my lile boymore has than had 25 to operations have andlife has support been when on he wasold. only two months Trek to help Demelza MY FAMILY hasable been to privileged use to the be servicesCare of for Demelza Children Hospice for themy past son few Stanley years has as Crouzon syndrome. arms the proposition, in theMeldrew, words I of would Victor say: “IMarie don’t Shandley, believe via it!”. email cil or its officers haveerty actually he seen wants the to prop- save,is which an is eyesore. not If listed, not, and 24 Mr years’ O’Quigley, experience who running has MuWeek Mu’s Street, in is going to payof for the the building, demolition which isway. falling down any- is literally an unusable andThe unstable windows building. have been boardedpriests up because by of the being vandalised,only so way the in is throughdoor the is roof unlocked. unless the harm to a listed buildingwhich, – I understand, Grove only House the – porch of is listed. downs Vicarage Road, containing flowers was taken fromgarden the of a property in Lees Road, to have been taken. Yalding into. Cliff Hall, set of golf clubs was stolen. in Boughton Lane, a house in Vanity Lane, commercial premises in Heath Road, Farleigh Classifieds downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk

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Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery Rebecca Abbott Telesales Team Leader Classified Sales Executive Classified Sales Executive E: natasha@ E: teresa@ E: rebecca.abbott downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk @downsmail.co.uk T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 ext. 224 ext. 227 ext. 234

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Maidstone South August 2016 39 On the Road

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Maidstone South August 2016 41 downsmail.co.uk

to hire the pitch on Sunday mornings. This would carry out a site visit.

aihCouncils Parish Boughton Monchelsea was agreed. Suon Road The chairman had been The Albion Sisters Lesley and Nicole, from Chairman’s report Cllr Peter Forknall said appointed to the delivery commiee in Kikilu’s Kitchen spoke about their plans for he had cut back the overhanging hedges relation to the outline planning application an eatery at The Albion. The exterior would along the footpath to the playing field as it for land south of Suon Road which had be largely unchanged with some new signs. couldn’t wait for KCC to do it. There had now been approved by the borough council. There would be parking for 10 to 12 cars and been flytipping in Brishing Lane. This would allow the parish council to the outbuilding would house a gluten-free Cleaner Cllr Valerie Underdown was to ensure that an acceptable rural buffer is bakery. There would be a “soft” opening in advertise in the Village News for an designated and for this to be placed into the mid-August with an official launch in occasional cleaner for the pavilion. Cllr Langley Amenity Trust. September. Webb suggested a sign should be put up in Helping Hands Parishioner Katy Abson the pavilion asking hirers to leave it as they spoke about the new community initiative would expect to find it. Loose Boughton Monchelsea, Helping Hands.A Chart Corner Highways had confirmed that Chairman Cllr Vianne Gibbons was re- pay as you go mobile phone had been given they would repaint the junction markings in elected as chairman and was thanked for all to the new group and the church had paid the evenings to avoid congestion. her dedication to the role. Cllr Charlie for leaflet printing. Cllr Gerson suggested Hollister was re-elected as vice-chairman. that the parish council might consider Southern Water The clerk would find out paying for ID badges for volunteers.A grant East Farleigh why there were no longer any responses of £200 for set up costs was agreed. Recreation and play areas Barge from emails sent to Southern Water. Phone box The order for the refurbished red Landscapes would fit the new net on the Allowances Members did not wish to phone box had been placed with delivery multiplay at Vicarage Lane. The clerk would receive allowances as parish councillors. Out expected late August. A grant application get a date and tell Cllr Peter Beasley so he of pocket expenses would continue to be had been made to the Big Loery Fund for could meet them to discuss the turf issue. reimbursed to cover travel and other items £1,843 towards the cost of the public access Heritage Anne Widdecombe had now such as stationery. This did not include the defibrillator and cabinet. wrien the foreword to the pamphlet on the chairman’s allowance, which is agreed Allotments Four new water tanks had been village’s historical heritage and ecology. during the seing of the budgets by the ordered. Plot holders would install. Speed Watch Cllr Beasley circulated reports finance commiee. Finger post Maidstone Council had agreed on recent deployments. Pram race This event due to be held at to pay for refurbishment of the Gandys Lane Garden competition Cllrs Beasley and Alan Brooks Field In August had been cancelled. finger post sign. White would judge. Hadlow College had Asbestos Regarding the removal of asbestos donated garden vouchers as prizes. from the shed on Brooks Field, the resident Speed limit Council had received a leer bordering the field wished to have a site Broomfield and Kingswood from Richard Yaxley, chairman of the meeting with the parish council. This would County councillor’s report KCC Cllr Jenny Almshouses Trustees, asking for help with be arranged with the resident. While said that Emma Hickling of geing a 20mph speed limit in Workhouse Cemetery Two councillors would check the Kingswood Primary School had done an Lane and possibly a width restriction. state of the memorial stones. outstanding job with her report to the Council, advised writing to the joint Boulder Clancy Docra had removed the education department regarding educational transportation board at Maidstone Council boulder next to the allotments but debris mobility. Councillors asked Cllr While to and geing a petition organised. Council following the exercise had caused concern. forward details of the verge and hedge would support this. After a further survey, it appeared that the cuing rota as the clerk was receiving Local Plan It was agreed that council would vegetation needed to re-establish itself complaints about the conditions and visual support Kent Association of Local Councils’ which would help the erosion of the surface. splay along the rural roads and junction. representations on the Local Plan but would The situation would be monitored. Increase Councillors requested support not commit to contributing to funding a from Maidstone ward Cllr Gill Fort for their professional to speak on its behalf until there application to increase the number of parish was more information. Marden councillors from nine to 11. Cllr Fort and Co-option Sean Harvey was co-opted to fill Yasmine Gordine, the borough’s parish East Suon the vacancy on the parish council. liaison officer, agreed to make enquiries on Community warden Mira Martin continued the parish council’s behalf. Notice board Locks had been renewed on to work with vulnerable people and had met Sports field Leeds and Kingswood Scout the two notice boards. with the chairman of Marden Minors FC to Group had asked to light campfires and Play area A report pointed out that the discuss an under 16/18 team. She had been barbecues near the Scout hut. Councillors tarmac surface was very thin and there were working with Kent Police regarding the agreed to allow the group to have barbecues holes in it. The anchor bolt on the picnic young people especially following incidents at the front of the Scout hut, also to have table was coming out. at the new development.The parish limited fires as long as they were completely chairman had met with the PCSO and contained in a container/drum. community warden along with Cllr Newton Handyman John Baker did not wish to Langley and the clerk and antisocial behaviour continue as the parish handyman. The clerk Footpath Kent Highway Services had concerns around the parish were raised. The was asked to advertise the position. confirmed that the footpath along PCSO was in communication with Golding Horseshoes Lane was scheduled to be cut Homes and the Redrow site manager. It was back. hoped that future meetings could be Chart Suon Hip twister exerciser This had been arranged with Redrow. Streetlight An electrician was finally found repaired, although further ground remedial Outdoor theatre A request had been who could fix the light in Mercer Way. He work might be required. received asking for councillors to consider replaced the lamp holder and fied a new Tree The tree in the village hall car park had hiring Southons Field for theatre/plays in photo cell, re-wired and cleaned the shade. been felled. 2017. Councillors agreed in principle, but His charge of £180 plus VAT was approved. Wall Five emails had been received from concern was raised regarding parking Defibrillator The clerk had received just two residents about a wall that had been erected facilities. The clerk was asked to investigate responses regarding defibrillator training. at the end of Grasslands/boundary of Leeds more details and to speak with Southeastern Cllr Chris Webb suggested that it be co- Castle estate to deal with bank slippage onto for a goodwill gesture of providing ordinated with the next Shop on the Green neighbouring garages. This had now been free/reduced parking. training and that Lilypie should be invited. blocked and a cut through used to access a Consultation Regarding HM Treasury Lier picking The council considered an public footpath to the woods. The parish consultation on government lending to local increase in Garry James’ pay for lier council noted that while this had been a authorities, councillors agreed to respond picking as he did more than was expected of well-used access over a long period of time, seeking an end to the premium charged by him. It was agreed that his pay should rise it was not a definitive right of way and the Public Works Loan Board for early from £7.50 to £12 per week. would therefore not wish to get involved in repayment of loans. Football pitch Council considered a request boundary issues between neighbours and Highways Parking questionnaires had been from Coxheath and Farleigh FC men’s team residents. It was agreed that councillors put onto a spreadsheet. The clerk would

42 Maidstone South August 2016 Parish Councils 43 August 2016

South

A resident had asked if Maidstone The chairman proposed that Cllr Sophie Cooper had the The problems with Maidstone Two new defibrillators had Permission was needed from The missing fence at The The club had asked for the A resident had wrien to ask The clerk had arranged for the The chairman had wrien to UK The bus operator was willing to The fencing had been replaced. The chairman had the land The cale were on The Fen. The clerk the fence put back upto but chase the for chairman a was meeting.been The removed old from pavilion the had site. Lees car park the Environment Agency (EA) before work could start. However, it lookedthe likely rerouting that of the Teise mightthe have erosion, caused in which casepay. the There EA were should a numberissues of on maintenance The Beult. Thehad temporary been fence re-erected. Defibrillators arrived. One had been fiedFinger at post Lile Venice. supply of the post. KCC£150 would and contribute fit and paintWelcome the pack post. sample pack and was chasingmissing up inserts. the A set of starterbe packs made would up for distribution. Council land Kintons had been replaced. TheWayside owner Coage of had 1 put in aJubilee gate Field leading and to appeared tothe have fence. moved The clerk woulddrawing look of at the the land andbe ask removed. for the gate to Bus route support a plan to routestation. a It bus was via agreed Yalding thatfor another this request should be madechairman to would KCC. ask The residents torequest write leers. Lier picking Borough Council emptying bins and collecting lier sacks appeared toresolved have and been stronger sacks wereOld ordered. tip ownership details for the siteWays. in KCC Gravely had agreed to undertaketo work the dangerous trees andwho bill was the not owner answering correspondence. The parish council would askclose him the to entrance. pay Should to hethis not it respond was to agreed toUK go Power ahead. Power with regard to movingstations the above sub- flood level. The Ta Cale has asked Medway Valley Countryside Partnership to look into thesheep damage were the causing to theGrant trees. requests as the £1,000 grant budgethad from not 2015/2017 been spent thatjunior £650 cricket be club given and to £350 the football to club. the The junior clerk hasfor asked invoices the to clubs show howYellow it lines had been spent. the parish council to considerlines double on yellow the exit cornerhad of advised Aco Fields. that KCC this couldlocal be level. dealt The with chairman at confirmed a parish that council the did not havethis. the The power leer to would do bebut forwarded it to was KCC doubtful thatapproved it as would the be Highway Code statedthere that should be no parkingof within a 15 junction. metres Cricket Club pipe for the water supply to be extended so that they could water theefficiently. green This more work could becost done with at Community no Payback. Councillors were happy to support this. Parking at school the parish council could askask the parents school to to park morewas considerately. confirmed It that the schoolthis already in did the termly newsleer. A grant of £4,114 The clerk has asked The developer of land at All equipment was The chairman had Community Heartbeat The hedge had been cut and The clerk had met an officer The sum of £2,800 had been The primary school was now Robert Mellor had been The work to extend the fence A parishioner had wrien to out and cleared. Weight restriction this in the spring. KCC was arranging for The clerk has asked Sovergrown Waring to allotments. spray off Village hall ring-fenced for the car park. The clerk had would be done when the area had been dug spoken to PCSO Morris aboutweight enforcing restriction the and she would arrange for extra signs to be putSyngenta up. site Yalding Pony field for a quote for rabbit-proofinspection fencing. of An the play areaout had by been MBC carried and theequipment report was said low all risk andHarbour satisfactory. play area reported to be low riskcontract and for satisfactory. the The field rentedhad by been Mrs distributed Jewell to councillors.councils Local were not subject togeneral tax. disposal The consent 2003 order askedparish that councils rent out atunless market there value was as social,community economic benefit. or It was decidedrent that would the remain the sameOpen as spaces last year. from MBC who had confirmedwould that be the installed bin at theAllotments top of School Lane. renting an allotment. It wasfees agreed and that deposit the should beparishioners waived. had Several complained about weed spraying on the path athad Bowhalls. wrien The to clerk the allotmentat holder. Bowhalls The and taps the Harbourreplaced were with to compliant be non return taps. asked for this money. building survey were in progress. Cllrs would be public meetings inminutes September. and The agendas for neighbourhood plan meetings were displayed onnoticeboard the outside the post office. Warmlake Maidstone Borough Council complaining about the fact that threehad major not applications been decided inwent time straight and to therefore the inspectorbypassing for the a planning decision, commiee. Thehad clerk wrien to the chiefcomplaining executive about of the MBC Warmlake applications. War memorial play area Suon Valence Telephone boxes wanted to work with theinstall parish a council defibrillator to in thethe phone parish boxes. council If wanted them removed had been obtained. The housing survey and Eileen Riden and Eve Poulter said there appointed by the secretary ofout state the to independent carry examination ofMaidstone the Borough Local Plan. Neighbourhood planning they would be signed overcouncil and would the be parish responsible forNew the development cost. the former Brandy’s Bay, Southsuggested Lane, had names with aroads. bird The theme parish for council the wouldsee prefer tree to names. They alsoMews did or not Drive want used. to see Local plan from north to south. Cllrthis Peter should Spearink be said closely monitored. Councillors noted The meeting with It was noted that the Members thanked Cllr Councillors discussed the There was concern about the OFSTED had met Play Place Councillor Sam Lain-Rose said A fridge or white cupboard had The village caretaker had fixed a There was a clamped car on The parish council had signed the Kent Highway Services would be mail.co.uk

new lease document for Bellcompletion Lane by toilet MBC and was awaited. Caretaker Boswell and the members of Marden in collisions. It was therefore considered prudent to implement the plannedto reduction 50mph and monitor theToilet effect it had. “No Parking” sign to theJubilee main Field gate and at had dealtovergrowing with vegetation along some paths. Bloom Group for all thehad commitment been that put into theroute presentation, and judging all other workall and the wished best them for the judging. Play scheme condition of the road surfacevillage south and of the the potential demandshousing that would new make on theTraffic PCSO’s regulation time. order information received from Kent Highways about the reasons for proposinglimit a on 50mph the A249 between Knoxbridge350m and south of Pinnock Lane.Highways Kent stated in summary that40mph a would limit be of abnormally low.increase It the would spread of speeds and the risk of representatives to discuss arrangements for the summer play scheme and inspected the the managing agent for Theadvised Parade that had the car parkfor would auction be after put the up remainingwas buildings. proposed It that the carlisted park as should an be asset ofagreed community that value. Cllr It Lain-Rose was shoulddetailed seek plan a and or specificationthe by parish use council for to obtainParish a surgery valuation.

report and agreed to the£8,169 expenditure for of 24 motifs, testing,demounting. installation It and was agreed thatshould installation take place at theDecember. beginning of Marden road crossing Taylor Wimpey had identified a possiblefor site the crossing required undercondition the aached planning to the OliverThis Road was site. to the eastlights of at the the temporary open traffic endwould of be Northdown. subject This to evaluation. The Parade Staplehurst Christmas lights finalise the analysis to includecurrent reviews restrictions, of place these current restrictions onto a plan ofprovide the a village, list of theraised roads and with map concerns these concernsCllrs on Boswell the and plan. Childs wouldreport produce of a the outcome andnext present available to full the council meeting.hoped It that was the results couldnext be newsleer. placed in the Flytipping downs been dumped in Sheephurst Lane. Clamped Paenden Lane on the villageburger side van. of the Signs contacted regarding refurbishment of cast iron and wooden finger posts. Marden in Bloom proposed venue at the school – both meetings had been positive andhad Play Place advised that bookings wereWimpey going Field well. project developers intended to level outpart the of central the ditch todevelopment the to east permit of the the flow of water OUR REPUTATION SPEAKS FOR ITSELF windows : doors : conservatories

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