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Maidstone East Edition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper Maidstone NorthSouth Edition downsmail.co.uk FREEMaidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper No. 246 October 2017 FREE News March 2019 No. 263 Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- Npeople’sews home in Bearsted, stone, took to the River Medway to News has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. School no longer ‘outstanding’ BDavideat hasing disclosed.loneliness MOn boardu Therd Kentishe rLady swereuspect up in court Beating loneliness MnationalAIDSTO NtreasureE Gram mRustiear Sch Leeool h(Fairyas Road grammar on January 15 and AGED nearly 96, we meet the sGodmother),Alip pLedO fNroDmO beN iformern gm ana n“ o EastEnderuhtsatsa ndbieneg nSte-” 1s6er. iTohues llays ti ninjsupreecdti oann dw ahsa isn s2i0n1c3e. harm. He appeared before mag- AwMP’sGidEoDwnwe Localahrolyb9e6a,t swPlane mee tbidthe charged with the murder of Wes been discharged from hospital. istrates at Medway on February widow who beats tfano a “Boothgood” (Princeschool a Charming),fter its most Eliza-re- Mr Tomkins, pictured, writes: “Gov- lHELENonelin eWhatelyss by wo askedrking .the 3 Adyinka (37), near his home in Detectives from the Kent and 12. 3 cbethent O fs Brightted ins pe (Cinderella),ction. Craigernors identified the very many pos- lgovernmentoneliness by tow ohaltrkin theg. Knightrider Street, Maidstone. Essex Serious Crime Directorate Four other men, a 37-year-old AndersonHeadmas t (Buttons)er Mark T and,omki n pictured,s has itive aspects (but) recognise that Cborough’slub ge housingts to pscheme. awa rd4 wStephenriMttern A tdo y Richardsipnakrean dtsi e ad andc caef pt Adametrin agn t ah Bor-le- iamrrperostveedm efinvtes apre onpeeled eidn inco rensnpeec-t from Croydon, a 27-year-old Club gets top award leged stabbing in the early hours tion with Mr Adyinka’s death. from Surrey, a 37-year-old from THE Pegasus gymnastics club “zonefair, a (Uglyccurat eSisters) and re a. listic” assess- of teaching and learning and sup- THE Pegasus gymnastics club of Sunday, February 10. The Crown Prosecution Serv- Maidstone and a 17-year-old has received a national award to meTheynt of twerehe sc hgreetedool’s p obysit ipupilson. fromport the work already underway.” hPlansas receiv eford a n Dratio nNigelal award to SouthA w oBoroughman in Primaryher 30s aSchoollso suf and- ice charged Kevin Roach (39), of from London have been released Now the school, which has nearly The Ofsted team noted that GCSE rreTHEeccoogg nwidowniissee iittss of aacc GPhhiiee vDrveem mNigeleennttss Minnet membersfered su s ofpe c theted media.stab w Theou n pantods South Norwood, London, with on bail pending further en- 1,300 students, has invited families and A level results dipped in 2017, aawillss aa twalktrraaiinn iithenngg ccGrandrreennttrree.. 66 runsdurin fromg the December incident, b 1-31.ut w aFors n otick-t murder and grievous bodily quiries. Canyon for charity. 12 aetsnd gocar toers www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. to a Q&A session on Feb- but school leaders instituted “rigor- ruary 26. ous accountability systems” to mon- Waattcchhccoonncceerrnnss Inspectors went to the Barton itor progress. TTJasonhheeNNeeiiggh hDonovanbboouurrhhooooddWWaa ttdatecchh ssTHEcchhee mformermeeiinn MMNeighboursaaiiddssttoonnee starccoouu lbringsldd ffhisoolldd showiiffiitt dtodoo etheessn nHazlittoottggeet t GP practice’s fears some fresh blood. 1888 CCTV call in a bid sTheatreome fr enextsh b May.lood. Murder suspect in Leaaddeerr qquuiittss TToorriieess A FFOORRMMEERR lleeaaddeerr ooff tthhee ccoouunncciill over quality of care hhaass qquuiitt tthhee TToorriieess ttoo jjooiinn tthhee iinnddeeppeennddeennttss.. 1199 ctoA MoAJOuR stopmredtical apracfticte i fly-tippinges cornsidesrintg tahe cblosubre ofiitsnpatigent list CALLSto new p forati theent installations amid grow ofi CCTVng con camerascerns ab toou preventt care q fly-tippinguality. on a Obbiittuuaarriieess 3344 AcountryThMe MAoNte roadMheadsic haveaal pPrpace beentiacereind madein co byurt thech localarged boroughwith tph councillor.ateienmt saufertyd, beurt WoefstWKenetsClleiny- Shepway has struggled to replace ical Commissioning Group contin- Parriisshh CCoouunncciillss 36 Aa dBurberrydocytoirnwkhao Lane,,rewtireh neardoyeia Leedssrsbageol. andievenearby,d to h moreave thanbee an yearsta afterbbe itd utunlicensedoes dtoealalotcha wasteteinpatMie carriers,natsitdo usst but.on be-e. 36 Broomfield,KNeovwiniRt toaakce hashs(a39m been),oonftPh targetedetaocseeCculorse byea, wasA dumpedspokesm andan f setor onKe fire.nt Police flievesla“tWs aet theaarroe costuncod tonmce smallidrnneigdh firmsta.bou oft t dis-he LLEEAAFFLLEETTSS tteelllliinngg rreessiiddeennttss aabboouutt waste dumpers for years, but in re- The church car park has also seen posing of construction waste at a Obituaries 32 SrouthinNe oaprwpoiondt,maepnpte.ared at Med- said: “Officers were called to a re- quSahlietywoasf tcaakrenwtoe aarloecpalrohvoisdpiintagl ccoommmmuunniittyy ccooffffeeee mmoorrnniinnggss wcentaIyn aM months,laetgtiesrtrtoat theleoscaC problemlobuorrtoounghF hasceobur be-un-- pmanyort o instancesf a dis oftur illegalbance dumping.outside atransferfonrdt,reuantmt stationilewnte, bcua istnh provingfeirnidnjaurrie aps deter-lwaceere- were delivered to 90% of Loose come more acute. But it is a problem in many rural rent that is costing councils more. were delivered to 90% of Loose acrilylo1r2s,viDarviSdteeophliennk, Maceceucshedeoxf- Chaucer House in Knightrider mnoetnstefroirouDsraWndilfsohrde,waraescloantesriddeirs-- ppParishaarriisshh hho oCouncilsmmeess;; ccoommppllaa iinnt34-35tss wweerree prConstructionessed his co waste,ncern rubble,about hardthe areas including Langley, Otham Cllr Fort made her remarks as Mr Adyinka’s death in Knightrider Street on Sunday, February 10.” icnhgarfogremd.ally closing our list to new rrASHeecceei idiebackvveedd aabboo hasuutt a abeenlllloottmm discoveredeennttss lleefftt t toino core,“qual windowsity of care andwe a householdre providin fur-g”. and Kingswood. Water Lane in one of the borough’s closest trans- Street during an alleged distur- Police confirmed Mr Adyinka regCihstariartmioanns.ofTthhee fbiresntcshte, pCaisrltoos ggMonksrrooww ““ wwiil Meadowldd”” iinn Ba rm inin g;;Detling ssppeeeedd-;- nitureHe w isro leftte: illegally“Followi –n ofteng the strewnretire- Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fer stations at North Farm, Tun- Barming bance outside his home on Febru- suffered stab wounds, but the sFeoerkniyoeuxpr loapinineidontso.”the court that iiHollingbournenngg aalloonngg LLaannccevillageett LLaann eefete aannd d stall- AAnn-- inme thent o middlef Dr Wi oflfo therd t road.wo years ago, also been targeted recently. bridgeBorou Wells,gh co announceduncillor M ita willlcolm be gelsey Avenue in Loose was aryCllr10. Gill Fort said: “Every month cauLastse of year,death Maidstonewould not o Boroughfficially tclosedhe mat forter 10wa weeks.s above the powers of gholderelsey co-ordinator Avenue in Jean Lo Duffyose w hasas we have been unable to replace McKay (pictured) said: “We need rresigned;eported; yellowthe R olinestary areClu neededb indi- weMr areRoa havingch spok toilets,e only to sinksconfi andrm bCouncile establ clearedished un 911til a casespost of-m fly-tip-ortem mSheagist added:rates an “Ifd th youe ca gose w alongould thebe reported; the Rotary Club indi- him as a full time GP, and the re- more, not fewer facilities, given the cforat eBuffkynd it wou Way,ld lik eOtham to pla,n tot 1 allow,000 hconstructionis full name waste, natio dumpednality, da inte theof epingxami andnatio thisn on yearWed morenesd thanay, Fe 163b- slineent ofto increasingMaidstone fines,Crow theyn Co haveurt o ton cated it would like to plant 1,000 maining doctors are struggling... amount of new housing in the area. cbusesrocus through bulbs o Imperialn parish Park; land rub- in bvillage,irth and specificallyaddress. in Burberry rhaveuary been13, as recordedDowns M sinceail we April.nt to Fbeeb enforced.ruary 14, Aaft reductioner Downs inM theail crocus bulbs on parish land in This means doctors are attempting complain that it is difficult to ob- I worry that it is simply the thin Bbisharm binsing. in the sports field in Lane,He a whereppeare wed arein c nowourt, thinkingrepre- pTheress approaching. darker evenings wchargeent to orpr offeringess. it free may have . to care for 2,767 patients per full- tain an urgent appointment. end of the wedge.” BKingswoodarming are to be moved over to sofent installinged by Mar camerask Jones fr onom privateBlack- willMr promptRoach i as risealso inac illegalcused o tipping.f caus- theFo desiredur othe similarr men, effect.”a 37-year-old time equivalent GP, there is a wait “We stopped actively taking on West Kent CCG said: “We have Ctheri picnicme R areaep andort rears exit. 36 fland,ords toSo overseelicitors, thein problema light area.”grey ingCllrgri Fortevou welcomeds bodily ha arm jointwit initia-h in- froAm three-monthlyCroydon, a 27 litter-year pick-old onfro them of four weeks for a routine ap- patients (open but full with a main- received an application from Mote Crime Reports 36 ovAers recentized eventsweats inhi Burberryrt and g Lanerey ttiveent t byo A theman Environmentda Francis dur Agencying the Smile-longurrey, a 3 stretch7-year- ofold roadfrom throughMaid- pointment, and many patients tained list) two years ago to protect Medical Practice to close its patient ACrimeHOUSE Reportswas burg l e d i n Fa35nt tsawracks au caravanit bottom burneds. out while a sandame theinci Driverdent ou andtside Vehiclethe bloc Stan-k of sLeedstone a villagend a 17 produces-year-old anfro averagem Lon- aAnHdO jeUwSeEl lewrays s tboulergnl;e dth ein r eFgains-t dards Agency to clamp down on list and we have been in touch with VEHICLES have been driven over torched car remains on a footpath d32on blackhav sackse bee ofn rubbish.released on bail tarantdio jne wneulmlebrye rs ptolaleten ;w tahse s treogleins- thCllrem to Fort,let t whohem alsokno w serveswhat asth e a tfarmlandration nu m inb erLenham, plate wascausing stolen npexntdsitnegpsfuarrteh.er enquiries. from a Ford Fiesta in Langton parish councillor, says teaching fdamgerom a F too rd crops; Fies ta an i n attemptedLangton “FTriheendCsCoGf M, troAgedtkhienryawtiotlhd ofuar Cbreak-inlose; g owaslf c lreportedubs and ing aDetlingrdenin;g a children about social responsibility Close; golf clubs and gardening pkianrdtnearsn,dis wgeonrekrionugshamrdanto hwehlpo tvehicleools w ewasre s vandalisedtolen from ina Bearstedshed in and the issue of litter in schools will tools were stolen from a shed in iwhelpmopur lodtakevhear vethecergu oiissuetnmeeonu tofftaon fdthehries tstreets.wenatyiotno PRd,ark WeaveringWood; a g;o l pumpkinsd-coloure d were or- Park Wood; a gold-coloured or- ahSheneldp believesototheprrso.v withide meveryore householdjoined-up nstolenamen t w fromas t ak anen fr allotmentom the fro n int onfa am henotu swea isn t aken ;f rao mho tuhsee fwroanst YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT sreceivingerAvnicyeosn, ewa weeklyhwicihthw iirefusenllfomrma kacollectionetiobnetteorr Lenham. Tovil uwservice,sheoowf tiht thereneersesseo disutr nohces iexcusenthciadtewn etforshha olittervuel.d” bouf rag lhedouinse Qinu Taorrvyil ;S aq uhaorues.e was [email protected] cbeingaTllhKe epn thrownrat cPtiocleicw e fromaosnap0 p1r vehicles3o0a3ch2e8d96 fo0 or0r bCommenturgled in Qu a r r y S q ua46-47re. 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent a(dumpedrceofm10m-0e 0nin1t7. the), o road.r Ken t Crimestop- Comment 46-47 pers anonymously on 0800 555111. Comment 46-47 Home Alarms supplied and fitted webexpand.co.uk 01622 880840 In the the top top 1% of 1%UK web of designUKvisit companies www.amiga.co.uk or call 08000 199622 webwww.webexpand.co.uk design companies | [email protected] web design google promotion ecommerce XVH

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2 Maidstone March 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Birds aacked POACHERS are using catapults to Marge, 96, happy to target valuable game birds while trespassing on private land near Maidstone, police have revealed. Farmers and residents in rural communities have been asked to keep working at Mall be vigilant following recent reports of illegal hunting incursions. AS a way to beat loneliness, a days a week, rarely taking a day Kent Police said two incidents Maidstone widow who is soon off. Suzie Brindle, the Mall Maid- were reported in January. An 18- to be 96 seems to know the an- stone’s marketing manager, said: year-old man from Snodland has swer…she goes to work. “Marge has been with us for over been issued with a community Marjorie Rose, from College 30 years now and there’s not a day protection notice warning, banning Road, has no plans to retire after when she doesn’t inspire or him from having any weapon ca- working as a cleaner at The Mall amaze us. pable of causing harm to wildlife. in Maidstone for over three “She is one of the hardest work- decades. ers we’ve ever had the pleasure of Majorie, known as Marge, right, working with here at The Mall. Help needed said: “I still feel fit and healthy so “When she’s not busy working, VOLUNTEERS are being sought I will keep going. I love working you’ll see her chatting with cus- to help keep Maidstone’s parks in at the shopping centre, I have got tomers and bringing a smile to good order. to know so many people and people’s faces. She’s a pillar of the The Mote Park Volunteers meet everybody is always happy to Mall’s community.” every Wednesday of the month, have a chat. Valerie Wilson, of Bearsted, starting at 9.30am and finishing “When I’m at home, I just get said: “I have known about this around 1pm. They meet at the vol- lonely. I don’t think I will ever lady over the years and I was just unteer office next to the cafe. Fur- give it up.” so excited when I saw her still ther details can be found at Born in Cornwall in 1923, Marge switched to cleaning. working at The Mall. www.moteparkfellowship.org.uk/ moved to Kent when she married She joined the shopping centre “She said she was going to be 96 events. 'Friends of South Park' her late husband Bill. in October 1986, when it was still in April. There she was with her meet on the first Monday of each She spent nearly 40 years work- called the Stoneborough Centre. dustpan and brush and she was month. They meet at the Pavilion ing as a fruit picker for Alan The great-grandmother of seven talking away to someone else be- at 9.30am and finish at about Firmin Ltd. But cold winter shifts is still mopping and cleaning win- cause she is so well-known. I just 12.30pm. Email parksandopen- affected her knees, and she dows with a smile on her face five had to go up and say hello.” [email protected]

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Maidstone March 2019 3 NNeewwss ddoowwnnssmmaaiill..ccoo..uukk downsmail.co.uk News CGeot turainnicngil £‘w3ikshaisnbgeaswtoasy’bclaorwcritsois River festival Author reads from work for road run THE author of the Josephine Tey mysteries will be turning heads and CHEAAMRTPofAKIeGnt NHoEspRiceS, thheacvhear-called for residential developments without sufficient parking to be barred, pages at Maidstone Library this month. ity based in Aylesford, is urging Nicola Upson (pictured), will read arusnnMeras itodsstatrotnpreacgtisriangpfporlethse with a car crisis. extracts from her crime series, fea- Maidstone Road Run. the Shepway Chariots fireworks plan turing Tey, and talking about her suc- MTheemebveernsto, fwtheicbhosrtoaurgtsha’st pHlaunb-- 1950s by “the father of town plan- cessful writing career. nbianrgds cLoamnem, Litoteoese,wisesrcehetdouldledtfhoer A COMMUNITY gardening charity is trying to nriangi”seSir£W3,il0lia0m0 Htolfroerdm– owvenet MOVES are afoot to give back the this in the town without Maidstone After studying English at Cam- sMtraeerctsha1r0e,“bauttbautrhslteintegspsoiginti”n.g up under the hammer for £430,000. town’s River Festival – in all its Borough Council’s support. Fortu- bridge, her first book, An Expert in noAwndp,ainyarsewdiupceeadt tehnetrayuthfeoersi.tyA’st contaminated soil to build a public kitchen and oTuhtedbouioldrincgl, awshsicrhoormigin.ally glory. nately, the council is being proac- Murder, has been followed by titles solution, modal shift – where resi- housed Barclays’ regional head- present, the half-marathon is £23, Volunteers at Shepway Chari- Boat enthusiasts re-gathered last tive and the police positive about including Two for Sorrow and The dents are encouraged to ditch cars quarters, is sandwiched between 10km is £15, 5km is £8 and the 1km ots have transformed half an acre year, even after the borough coun- our ideas.” Death of Lucy Kyte. Nicola is cur- for alternative transport – planners High Street and Bank Street. family and fancy dress run is £3. of disused, fly-tipped land off cil withdrew its support. Previous river festivals have rently researching her latest book were accused of “wishing away the The ground floor is still desig- For details go to www.hokh.org. Hampshire Drive into a fully- But Cllr David Naghi has made taken place with full insurance from the Josephine Tey series and is problem”. nated for commercial use, but the functioning wild life corner, it his as the mayor of Maidstone to cover, although Cllr Naghi agreed also planning a completely separate The damning assessment was three storeys above have the po- growing fresh fruit and vegeta- bring the Medway festival back to there would be more hurdles to novel. made by Councillor Jonathan Purle tential for conversion, bidders were Tourism bid bles for the community. the county town. climb with a larger event. Booking is advised for a place at the “Audience with …” from 6.30pm who, along with parking cam- told. WORK is underway to revise Plans to build a kitchen unit, to He told Downs Mail: “With so A Safety Advisory Group, com- to 8pm, on Thursday, February 21, at the library in James Whatman paigner Tia Rose, was lobbying the Auctioneer John Stockey said: Maidstone’s plans for boosting vis- host workshops on healthy eating little being laid on for the public in prising council and police officials, Way. Tickets are £3. Call 03000 413131. borough to have a private devel- “The accommodation might be itor numbers. with ingredients picked straight the town, this is how we can take will have to ensure the event meets opment in Fant thrown out. suitable for conversion into resi- Businesses and organisations from the allotment along with an on the negativity being generated specified requirements. He said: “It seems to be recog- dential units, as long as all neces- met this month to discuss updating outdoor classroom, have been re- by anti-social behaviour, even Cllr Naghi said: “The goodwill is nised that planning applications sary consents are obtainable. Can you help the Samaritans? the borough’s Destination Manage- LvisotkeeddS,ufonleloywHionugsethaendirsicgohvt,eCryllroJfonathan Purle murder, on our streets.” there and we have five months to have insufficient parking, but the “This listed building fronts both ment Plan. Delegates reviewed asbestos in the ground. Cllr Naghi has secured £15,000 get the necessary consents and I A CHARITY which provides sup- people a year in schools, hospitals problem is somehow wished away of a century or so of real people came just days before auctioneers the High Street and Bank Street what Maidstone has achieved and Members are now trying to towards what he hopes will be a believe that is plenty of time.” port for people struggling with the and homeless shelters. on the basis that Fant is close to moving to Fant with their cars and sold Sunley House, an iconic grade and the three storeys on offer have looked at ways to improve it. raise the money needed to safely free day of family fun, with street A house building firm working stresses of life, is recruiting staff. A spokesman said: “Every six town, or there are some buses, or finding the houses have insuffi- II listed office block in the centre of previously been used for offices. Recent figures showed Maid- remove and dispose of the pol- entertainment and a fireworks dis- on the 500 home Springfield Park The Maidstone and Weald seconds, somebody contacts us. there is a train station. cient parking … the cumulative ef- Maidstone and suggested it could “But with a premium on resi- stone’s visitor economy rose by luted soil. play from the roof of Fremlin Walk. development has agreed to spon- branch of the Samaritans is look- Ten times a minute, we can help “No amount of purely theoreti- fect is streets that are literally at be converted into apartments, de- dential accommodation, the new 8.7% in 2017 and is now worth Founder Nikki Gough (37), of Cllr Naghi said: “We have had a sor the event. ing for volunteers. someone turn their life around. cal abstraction about sustainability bursting point.” sFpoiutendhearvNinikgkni oGopuagrkhinwgithprvoovluisnitoene.rs IbaunyPerremntiigche,tAwmisihOtaoktlreyycaonndvTeortniyng over £283 million. Lincoln Road, said: “This used to very positive response from Maid- Let us know your views on The Grecian Street charity is That’s a privilege, and a huge re- alters, one jot, the concrete reality The councillor’s intervention Sunley House – designed in the it.” be a dumping ground, full of rub- Davies, and puppies Charlie and Lola stone Council and the police to our holding a Maidstone River part of a national movement that, sponsibility.” Flower talk bish and anti-social behaviour. all these outside youth organisa- University for the Creative Arts to suggestions. Festival. Email the editor at as well as manning phone and so- For more details, send and email tions to take an interest and who volunteer. “You can’t organise an event like [email protected]. cial media lines, also visits 228,370 to [email protected]. MAIDSTONE Horticultural Soci- “When we got the allotment a couple of years ago, we removed want to collaborate with us for Nikki said: “Our events are get- Betyahars ninvitded agernanciumeexpert 12 tonnes of rubbish from the site work experience, we’re now hav- ting bigger and bigger, and it’s RJaEcSqIuDeEliNnTeSAivnioBlaertmtointgalakreopnlatnh-e aDlone. eWe linastallyed bsrandanewsinBg to resotrictcwhkich pawrts ofothe rukpsettinsg btecauserrigthtsnow, we ning to save lives at sea … by stag- garden favourites. site we can take them to because don’t have the freedom or space. ing a barn dance. feAnMcinOgNTaHnodf dbiusriultptiaonc, ldaisvserrosiomns age of measures, known collectively The event, which is open to of the soil. As it stands, half the garden is un- The fundraiser, for the Royal Na- fuandeddelabystshtaerNteadtoionnFaelbLruoattryer9y.a”s as Operation Brock, that will help im- non-members, will be held at “To think we’ve come so far usable. tional Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), BVritoaliunnptreeeprarAesmfoi rOlifaekaleftyer(B3r6e)x,ito.f prove the resilience of the county’s Maidstone Baptist Church Hall in and now for it to potentially come “To progress, we need the soil will feature the calling and music of LynOlveeyrnCiglhotswe,orskawida:s b“eWineg ckanrroiewd roads. They also include Manston Knightrider Street at 7.30pm on to an end is frustrating.” disposed of in a professional way. John and Karen Sweeney and the wohuatttowgeewt raenatdaynfdorhtohwe Otpoegraettioitn, Airfield and the M26.” Thursday, March 7. Shepway Chariots were invited We are at a bit of a standstill.” £10 entry fee will include food. thBeromckaicnodnitfrfaiflcuowltysiysskteemepionng the Highways England Chief Execu- Visit www.maidstonehorticul- to become National Citizen Serv- To donate, please visit Just Giv- The event at Fant Community fuMn2d0s. up. It’s a huge barrier. tive Jim O’Sullivan said: “The steps turalsociety.org for more details. ice community partners, as well ing and search for Shepway Char- Hall in Fant Lane starts at 7.30pm “Thhies wyilol luatsht unintil SahboeuptwMaayrcihs1a1 we are putting in place on the M20 as a place for students from the iots. on Saturday, March 30. Contact paronbdltehme,Aa2n0dwilhl ebneawrethfienbarlulyntgotf are based on our extensive experi- ASlankCaocks opn e016c22ia761l004 to traffic which would normally travel At best, it means that vehicles can ence of working with partners to bAooSkPEtiCckIeAtsLamndixmoefaTlsw. o Tone and from junctions seven to nine. There move in both directions, while lorries keep the road network in this region Ska is promised at the Great Danes will be 50mph speed restrictions for can be stacked coastbound if there operating safely and reliably. Fhotuel innMeaidrstoanel. costs mCost oaf therdaey on the Mo20. maere disrguptioens tto Porit otf Dsover oor w“Theny incorp‘orpate leussonsblear’ned The Skatonics, with their blend of Cones and signs are in place to Channel Tunnel services. from our experience of Operation CREATIVE care staff have come up role of landlady.” TclHasEsicboTrrooujagnhSckoaunancidl scpovenertsmfroorme stop HGVs using Bearsted or New Few critics give Operation Brock Stack in 2015 and techniques from with an imaginative alternative to What the residents-only bar lacks tThhaenS£p6e,0c0ia0lso,nMpaadunpeesrss,’BfaudnMeralnsnbeer-s Cut Road to get to the M20 and much chance of success, as they be- major construction schemes in other “a night in” for residents at a care in a licence, it makes up for in terms tawnedeTnh2e01S7e-le1c8t.er, will be on stage at drivers are warned of continued de- lieve the system is too fragile and parts of the country. home in Maidstone, by opening of memorabilia and magic, with flo- ThTeheMceorsctusrearHe ocotevl,erAesdhbfoyrdthReoaaud-, lays on the A20. likely to falter with the slightest "They will make a significant dif- tBheoarristytedw,hfreonmth9eprme isonoFroindeayle, fFtetbo- thIetirisowhonploecdalO. peration Brock will prang in either direction. frearlenwcaelltpoapreedrusctinragigthte coountgoefstitohne mruaakreya2r2r.aTnhgeebmaernotps.ens at 7pm and keeSpuctrhafhfiacsflboeweinntghief tshueprpeoarrtefoprrothbe- But Highways England claimed: a1n9d4d0iss;ruopttiiocns tloabdoetdh twhiethMs2q0uanshd; ticMkeatisdasrteon£e10. BCoarlol u08g4h4 8C15ou90n4c5il lnemovseal fidteeraBrtehxait. Maidstone Mayor “The arrangement is part of a pack- tbhoeawrdidgearmroeasd; annedtweoverkn.”a piano. spent £6,296 on so-called “public David Naghi (right) was first over Amy thanked the centre’s main- health” services, which are simple the threshold to declare the snug at tenance technician, Brian Thornton, cPereomopnieps wyith affuunernal ddiresctor the newly-named pub – The Pem- for turning her and colleague Becky aAndREaCcoOffRinDb£u6t8l,i0tt0le0ewlsaes. raised by bury Arms – open for business. Hicks’ ideas into a reality Maidstone area during Novem- TAhmy Reobefrtst(24)w, activiatiesrco-nor- ing to driveArmsy saido: “Rfeside4ntsxhav4e thseir Tbere’s dPopdpyyDaytapplekal, largely POdiLnIaCtoErhaatvMe adidvsitsoende4CXa4redrCievnertsre that the 4X4 vehicles are targeted ocuwrnercoaormpsaarkndorshaawreedlll-oluitnlgoecsa,tbiount . due to the help of members of the torbeseidmenatkiaelsaunrdentuhrastintghehiormvehinicBleosx- for possible use in ram raids on thiHs we ilal dgdivedt:he“mDosonm’telwehaveree yelosuer BRAoRtaMryINCGlubHoisftoMryaiSdosctioentye.invited arleeyseRcouarde,acfatmereaunpuwmitbhetrhoefirdeecae.nt stores after attacks in Headcorn, tkoeygos foonr thdeisepvleanyinignaynodusrochiaolmisee, meBmribtiesrhs aLnedggiounestasretoa tuorngaunpisteor thefHtseirn Kpaernetn.ts Sue and Russell Lenham and Staplehurst. annedarredfloeocrtsoonrdwaiynsdgoownes.bIyt.i”s better its February 12 meeting with teddy Jane Ayers said: “This beat Maid- RCoabresrthsaravneTbheeeBnulsltaotlEeanstinFarFleivigeh mHumowteovbeer,atthtehseeorpeecneintgtthoegfrtese–t if Tthheeywaarellssaormeecwovheererde iwniathccsepseseibdl-e bears. stone’s record by a long way.” OankdGTrheeeWn,hTitenHtaertdaetnCaonlliderMStraere-t wtheicphuhba’spfiprestn“epdubnetetwrs”e.en Decem- wtoauynpwicatunrteesdfrvoimsithoersr.p”arents time The unusual request was made to She praised organiser Doug Bag- denne.ar Marden. berAamnydsJaaindu: “aErvyer–yoarneenhoatstbheoeungshot ofDrurninvienrgs arseperemdwinaydetrdacnkoattlCeaovl-e support a talk by Melanie Gibson- uley’s “fabulously efficient and ThUenfolrattutneratewlya, shelratdeard fdoieudndin tosubpepocortnivneeacnteddh.elpful, but I guess it lviearluSatbrleeest,inwsihdicehoramppakeaelsutore they Barton on the history of the popu- energetic management and coor- bu2r0n0e9d, obut iAnmHyowllainsgebxopuercntien.g her wAill bpeodliocwenstpoomkeesmtoatnakeadovnistehde haoremlee’fstminanthyembootortbaiknedfatnose. nsure ldarintaotyiso.n”. Police are working on the theory that owners park in a garage, se- that the alarms are functioning.

4 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Council ‘wishing away’ car crisis River festival Author reads from work THE author of the Josephine Tey mysteries will be turning heads and pages at Maidstone Library this month. CAMPAIGNERS have called for residential developments without sufficient parking to be barred, Nicola Upson (pictured), will read as Maidstone grapples with a car crisis. extracts from her crime series, fea- fireworks plan turing Tey, and talking about her suc- Members of the borough’s plan- 1950s by “the father of town plan- cessful writing career. ning committee were told the ning” Sir William Holford – went MOVES are afoot to give back the this in the town without Maidstone After studying English at Cam- streets are “at bursting point”. under the hammer for £430,000. town’s River Festival – in all its Borough Council’s support. Fortu- bridge, her first book, An Expert in And, in a swipe at the authority’s The building, which originally glory. nately, the council is being proac- Murder, has been followed by titles solution, modal shift – where resi- housed Barclays’ regional head- Boat enthusiasts re-gathered last tive and the police positive about including Two for Sorrow and The dents are encouraged to ditch cars quarters, is sandwiched between year, even after the borough coun- our ideas.” Death of Lucy Kyte. Nicola is cur- for alternative transport – planners High Street and Bank Street. cil withdrew its support. Previous river festivals have rently researching her latest book were accused of “wishing away the The ground floor is still desig- But Cllr David Naghi has made taken place with full insurance from the Josephine Tey series and is problem”. nated for commercial use, but the it his as the mayor of Maidstone to cover, although Cllr Naghi agreed also planning a completely separate The damning assessment was three storeys above have the po- bring the Medway festival back to there would be more hurdles to novel. made by Councillor Jonathan Purle tential for conversion, bidders were the county town. climb with a larger event. Booking is advised for a place at the “Audience with …” from 6.30pm who, along with parking cam- told. He told Downs Mail: “With so A Safety Advisory Group, com- to 8pm, on Thursday, February 21, at the library in James Whatman paigner Tia Rose, was lobbying the Auctioneer John Stockey said: little being laid on for the public in prising council and police officials, Way. Tickets are £3. Call 03000 413131. borough to have a private devel- “The accommodation might be the town, this is how we can take will have to ensure the event meets opment in Fant thrown out. suitable for conversion into resi- on the negativity being generated specified requirements. He said: “It seems to be recog- dential units, as long as all neces- by anti-social behaviour, even Cllr Naghi said: “The goodwill is nised that planning applications sary consents are obtainable. Listed Sunley House and right, Cllr Jonathan Purle murder, on our streets.” there and we have five months to Can you help the Samaritans? have insufficient parking, but the “This listed building fronts both Cllr Naghi has secured £15,000 get the necessary consents and I A CHARITY which provides sup- people a year in schools, hospitals problem is somehow wished away of a century or so of real people came just days before auctioneers the High Street and Bank Street towards what he hopes will be a believe that is plenty of time.” port for people struggling with the and homeless shelters. on the basis that Fant is close to moving to Fant with their cars and sold Sunley House, an iconic grade and the three storeys on offer have free day of family fun, with street A house building firm working stresses of life, is recruiting staff. A spokesman said: “Every six town, or there are some buses, or finding the houses have insuffi- II listed office block in the centre of previously been used for offices. entertainment and a fireworks dis- on the 500 home Springfield Park The Maidstone and Weald seconds, somebody contacts us. there is a train station. cient parking … the cumulative ef- Maidstone and suggested it could “But with a premium on resi- play from the roof of Fremlin Walk. development has agreed to spon- branch of the Samaritans is look- Ten times a minute, we can help “No amount of purely theoreti- fect is streets that are literally at be converted into apartments, de- dential accommodation, the new Cllr Naghi said: “We have had a sor the event. ing for volunteers. someone turn their life around. cal abstraction about sustainability bursting point.” spite having no parking provision. buyer might wish to try converting very positive response from Maid- Let us know your views on The Grecian Street charity is That’s a privilege, and a huge re- alters, one jot, the concrete reality The councillor’s intervention Sunley House – designed in the it.” stone Council and the police to our holding a Maidstone River part of a national movement that, sponsibility.” suggestions. Festival. Email the editor at as well as manning phone and so- For more details, send and email Barn dance “You can’t organise an event like [email protected]. cial media lines, also visits 228,370 to [email protected]. RESIDENTS in Barming are plan- Delays as Brock work starts ning to save lives at sea … by stag- ing a barn dance. A MONTH of disruption, diversions age of measures, known collectively The fundraiser, for the Royal Na- and delays started on February 9 as as Operation Brock, that will help im- tional Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Britain prepares for life after Brexit. prove the resilience of the county’s will feature the calling and music of Overnight work was being carried roads. They also include Manston John and Karen Sweeney and the out to get ready for the Operation Airfield and the M26.” £10 entry fee will include food. Brock contraflow system on the Highways England Chief Execu- The event at Fant Community M20. tive Jim O’Sullivan said: “The steps Hall in Fant Lane starts at 7.30pm This will last until about March 11 we are putting in place on the M20 on Saturday, March 30. Contact and the A20 will bear the brunt of are based on our extensive experi- Alan Cocks on 01622 761004 to traffic which would normally travel At best, it means that vehicles can ence of working with partners to book tickets and meals. from junctions seven to nine. There move in both directions, while lorries keep the road network in this region will be 50mph speed restrictions for can be stacked coastbound if there operating safely and reliably. most of the day on the M20. are disruptions to Port of Dover or “They incorporate lessons learned Funeral costs Cones and signs are in place to Channel Tunnel services. from our experience of Operation THE borough council spent more stop HGVs using Bearsted or New Few critics give Operation Brock Stack in 2015 and techniques from than £6,000 on paupers’ funerals be- Cut Road to get to the M20 and much chance of success, as they be- major construction schemes in other tween 2017-18. drivers are warned of continued de- lieve the system is too fragile and parts of the country. The costs are covered by the au- lays on the A20. likely to falter with the slightest "They will make a significant dif- thority when there is no one left to It is hoped Operation Brock will prang in either direction. ference to reducing the congestion make arrangements. keep traffic flowing if there are prob- But Highways England claimed: and disruption to both the M20 and Maidstone Borough Council lems after Brexit. “The arrangement is part of a pack- the wider road network.” spent £6,296 on so-called “public health” services, which are simple ceremonies with a funeral director and a coffin but little else. Theft warning to drivers of 4x4s Teddy talk POLICE have advised 4X4 drivers that the 4X4 vehicles are targeted cure car park or a well-lit location. to be make sure that their vehicles for possible use in ram raids on He added: “Don’t leave your BARMING History Society invited are secure after a number of recent stores after attacks in Headcorn, keys on display in your home, members and guests to turn up to thefts in Kent. Lenham and Staplehurst. near doors or windows. It is better its February 12 meeting with teddy Cars have been stolen in Five However, these recent thefts – if they are somewhere inaccessible bears. Oak Green, Tenterden and Mar- which happened between Decem- to unwanted visitors.” The unusual request was made to den. ber and January – are not thought Drivers are reminded not leave support a talk by Melanie Gibson- The latter was later found to be connected. valuables inside or make sure they Barton on the history of the popu- burned out in Hollingbourne. A police spokesman advised are left in the boot and to ensure lar toys. Police are working on the theory that owners park in a garage, se- that the alarms are functioning.

Maidstone March 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Pyjama fund MAIDSTONE man Andy Bartram is preparing for the London Pegasus gym receives marathon by wearing pyjamas and slippers on his daily commute to the City. Andy (47) aims to raise £1,500 for British training award the City and East London Bereave- ment Service. A CLUB in Maidstone with a James Hall, He said: “I have about three growing reputation as the birth- coach Ovidiu months to raise the money.” place of world-class gymnasts has been named as Britain’s top place Rugina and Plan meeting to train. Courtney Pegasus Gymnastics Club in Tulloch DOZENS of people attended a Tovil received national recognition accept the meeting to launch the Tovil neigh- as Club of the Year at the recent certificate bourhood plan last month. British Gymnastics Awards. Assistant parish clerk Lisa Rack- from Mayor of Among the many to congratu- Maidstone ett said the scheme aimed to shape late the team on its performance development in the community Cllr David was Maidstone’s mayor, Cllr over the next two decades. Naghi David Naghi, whose daughter at- Tovil Parish Council has com- tended Pegasus when it started out Commonwealth medal, and a Eu- we’ve got everything we need.” missioned planning consultants to in Bearsted under the direction of ropean silver to his name, said: Maidstone’s mayor said it had help formulate the dossier. Fef and Peter Griffin. “It’s not just a business place, it’s a been an honour to visit the club He was delighted to add another family. I enjoy training in Maid- and to witness the talent being BAFTA night award to the team’s string of acco- stone, and I wouldn’t want to be honed. He added: “Who would THE MAIDSTONE Film Society is lades, handing over a Civic Certifi- anywhere else.” have thought at the first incarna- screening the BAFTA-nominated cate to mark their achievement. Fellow GB squad member tion of Pegasus that years later we satire, The Death of Stalin. Team GB gymnasts Courtney Courtney Tulloch, who won two would be talking about the poten- The screening is at the Hazlitt Tulloch and James Hall, who grew golds and a silver at the Common- tial of having Olympic gymnasts Theatre in Earl Street, Maidstone up in Maidstone and credit the wealth Games for this country and coming from Maidstone! on February 25. club for their ongoing success, came away from the European “We’re so proud to have this Yearly membership of the soci- joined staff to receive the award. Championships in 2018 with a sil- wonderful facility in our borough, ety costs £31, or £55 for a couple. James Hall, who has two World ver and bronze, added: “We’ve got and to see the coaches and staff Call 01622 746078 for details. Cup medals, two silver and a gold the best equipment, best coaches – recognised with this award.”

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6 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Pyjama fund COUNTY COBBLER Volunteer Befriending MAIDSTONE man Andy Bartram is preparing for the London Pegasus gym receives marathon by wearing pyjamas and slippers on his daily commute to the City. Andy (47) aims to raise £1,500 for Just moved? Need spare keys? How to find us:- British training award We are in The Mall- Chequers the City and East London Bereave- We are here to help!! ment Service. Centre- five shops in from the A CLUB in Maidstone with a James Hall, DISCOUNTS on multiple key main entrance on the right hand He said: “I have about three growing reputation as the birth- coach Ovidiu orders COMPETITIVELY priced. side, next door to Virgin Media. months to raise the money.” place of world-class gymnasts has been named as Britain’s top place Rugina and • Get your Gifts personalised by our Plan meeting to train. Courtney engraving specialists - jewellery, pens & KEYS* Pegasus Gymnastics Club in Tulloch Zippo's etc. Yale type £5 DOZENS of people attended a Tovil received national recognition accept the 2 for £7.50 Some older people fear solitude, many Watch repairs, batteries & straps replaced meeting to launch the Tovil neigh- as Club of the Year at the recent certificate • 3 for £10!!! bourhood plan last month. British Gymnastics Awards. We specialise in men’s We also cut more experience it. Loneliness affects Assistant parish clerk Lisa Rack- from Mayor of • Among the many to congratu- Maidstone leather soles stitched on. Mortice, ett said the scheme aimed to shape late the team on its performance Chubb people’s physical and mental health. development in the community Cllr David was Maidstone’s mayor, Cllr • We can replace ZIPS on Security & over the next two decades. Naghi David Naghi, whose daughter at- premises within 24 hours. most car keys Tovil Parish Council has com- Be that person to make a difference... tended Pegasus when it started out Commonwealth medal, and a Eu- we’ve got everything we need.” missioned planning consultants to NEW SPECIALISED key cutting – i.e. in Bearsted under the direction of ropean silver to his name, said: Maidstone’s mayor said it had • help formulate the dossier. tubular multi-lock security *from the same key Fef and Peter Griffin. “It’s not just a business place, it’s a been an honour to visit the club Become a volunteer befriender today! He was delighted to add another family. I enjoy training in Maid- and to witness the talent being • MOST car keys cut BAFTA night award to the team’s string of acco- stone, and I wouldn’t want to be honed. He added: “Who would Prompt Engraving Service – we can also THE MAIDSTONE Film Society is lades, handing over a Civic Certifi- anywhere else.” have thought at the first incarna- While U Wait 0800 048 4668 • supply trophies & tankards screening the BAFTA-nominated cate to mark their achievement. Fellow GB squad member tion of Pegasus that years later we service Team GB gymnasts Courtney Courtney Tulloch, who won two would be talking about the poten- satire, The Death of Stalin. • Zippo Lighters available Registered charity number 1062723 The screening is at the Hazlitt Tulloch and James Hall, who grew golds and a silver at the Common- tial of having Olympic gymnasts Theatre in Earl Street, Maidstone up in Maidstone and credit the wealth Games for this country and coming from Maidstone! www.facebook.com/Maidstoneshoerepairs on February 25. club for their ongoing success, came away from the European “We’re so proud to have this Yearly membership of the soci- joined staff to receive the award. Championships in 2018 with a sil- wonderful facility in our borough, County Cobbler 370The Mall, DukesWalk, ety costs £31, or £55 for a couple. James Hall, who has two World ver and bronze, added: “We’ve got and to see the coaches and staff Call 01622 746078 for details. Cup medals, two silver and a gold the best equipment, best coaches – recognised with this award.” Chequers Centre • 01622 297600

Maidstone March 2019 7 News | Neighbourhood Watch downsmail.co.uk Watch scheme needs members A CRIME-fighting charity could collapse if it fails to secure new blood, members have warned. Maidstone and District Neigh- “dedicated volunteers all living the enquiry stage. bourhood Watch Association is within the Maidstone area who “Our difficulty is finding new operating with a “skeleton” man- are passionate about helping to committee members. A few agement committee and may build safer communities within stepped down last year due to have to take the drastic step of Maidstone and its surrounding work or other commitments, and turning to Tonbridge for leader- villages”. finding replacements has become ship if it is to survive. Association chairman Jim a challenge. In addition, our vol- Committee member and Cox- Tynan (pictured left) said that, al- untary watch liaison officer has heath parish councillor, Cheryl though a merger with Tonbridge left and we’re waiting for the po- Skinner, told Downs Mail: “There had been mooted, he is hopeful lice to appoint a new one.” are so few of us now on the com- Maidstone will survive. Launched in 1982, Neighbour- mittee, it’s becoming a real strug- “There are no issues at the coal hood Watch is now the largest gle. face,” he said. “The scheme is crime prevention movement in “We’ve been unable to encour- very popular. My area – Allington England and Wales, with 2.3mil- age more volunteers and if the sit- – has about 30 co-ordinators. In lion member households. uation doesn’t change, the some of the more rural areas of Mrs Skinner said: “There has committee may have to close or the borough there might be five or never been a greater need for the be taken over by Tonbridge.” establishing new watches, raising six. The average is 10 to 12. Neighbourhood Watch. The po- The committee provides a cru- funds and materials, and promot- “A new watch is currently being lice have been put under consid- cial link between watch co-ordi- ing the charity’s crucial work. launched in Sutton Valence, there erable pressure over the years, nators on the ground and police The association describes its are another two in the pipeline and they rely on public support to chiefs in Maidstone. It is central to committee as being made up of and I have a further half dozen at tackle crime.” How group is Extra police for anti-social behaviour making safer THE question over Neighbourhood Watch’s future came as anti-social communities behaviour rocked Maidstone and NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch has mid-Kent. become a major player in commu- In Marden, the parish council nity crime-fighting. called for a meeting with Network In Maidstone, it has also pro- Rail and British Transport Police to vided guidance to housing associ- discuss issues at the railway station. ations and developers in a bid to This follows similar summits with ed- build safety into neighbourhoods ucation and youth services, police, at the construction stage. Maidstone Borough Council and And, say its representatives, it housing associations aimed at has given support and social co- reigning in troublemakers. hesion to thousands of residents. Coxheath listed five cases of anti- social behaviour, 10 of violence, four Maidstone committee member Maidstone and the Weald MP issue with Kent Police, adding: public order offences and two of Cheryl Skinner said: “It’s not Helen Grant is pictured with Kent Po- “There are about 270 more police about twitching curtains and spy- criminal damage in just a month. lice and Crime Commissioner officers in the county compared ing on your neighbours. It’s about Headcorn Parish Council said the Matthew Scott when they met at with when I took office in 2016. building better, safer communi- village’s cricket and tennis club had the end of January to discuss polic- However, with the extra demand of- ties.” held a meeting with police after ing around Brenchley Gardens in ficers are facing, we need more. Chairman Jim Tynan added: members feared they were being Maidstone. “I am proposing using an increase “We want families to grow in com- targeted by a gang of youths. She was concerned by the level of in council tax to fund the recruit- munities they can be proud of, and And Larkfield was due to have a drug-taking and intimidating be- ment of another 180 fully-war- we want them to look out for each public meeting as Downs Mail went haviour, and called on the crime ranted police officers this year, other - where no household needs to press, to discuss concerns over chief to push for extra police there. meaning there will be 450 more in to feel alone or vulnerable. yob activity in Martin Square. Mr Scott promised to raise the Kent than when I was elected.” “We not only work closely with existing watches, but we also en- courage and recruit new ones, es- pecially in the ever-expanding Could you help to fight crime? and newly-developed areas of Maidstone. We provide all the MAIDSTONE and District publicity people to attend public ever hours they can. Committee support and training they re- Neighbourhood Watch Associa- events with the police or com- members don’t need any previous quire.” tion is down to five regular com- munity support officers, and a watch experience although, like In addition, the Maidstone asso- mittee members and calculates it programme coordinator, who many charity volunteers, they will ciation also fields considerable needs a further five or six to get would decide which events we’d be required to undergo criminal support from outside the town, back to strength. need to cover - school visits, records checks.” citing the backing of parishes like Chairman Jim Tynan told group meetings, village fetes… Anyone interested in joining West Malling, Hunton, Coxheath, Downs Mail: “We’re currently that sort of thing. the committee should email Mr Boughton Malherbe, Boughton short of a treasurer, someone to “The posts are all voluntary and Tynan at NHWcoordinator@talk- Monchelsea and Otterden. manage our website, two or three we’d ask people to put in what- talk.net

8 Maidstone March 2019 News | Neighbourhood Watch downsmail.co.uk downsdoNewswnsmail.co.ukmail.co.uk downsmail.co.ukBusiness NFocusews Road closure THERE is a nine-day road closure Watch scheme needs members Grammar school slips in Maidstone so that a zebra cross- ing can be installed. A CRIME-fighting charity could collapse if it fails to secure new blood, members have warned. Ask the Expert Grovewood Drive North and LOCAL businesses are as important an Taking notice New Cut Road were due to close Maidstone and District Neigh- “dedicated volunteers all living the enquiry stage. tEyesightelemento to community‘ gis o lifeprecious aso a parishd council,’andO helpf tos improveted readinggr speedad e from February 16 for nine days. bourhood Watch Association is within the Maidstone area who “Our difficulty is finding new Grovewood Drive North will cricket club or the Women’s Institute. ORGANISATIONS are able to make operating with a “skeleton” man- are passionate about helping to committee members. A few therefore we all know that we and fluency by up to ten times. close from New Cut Road to Here at the Downs Mail we have always as many entries and use as many agement committee and may build safer communities within stepped down last year due to MAIDSTONE Grammar School itive, but Kent education expert Peter Provender Way. The alternative needrecognised to the look pivotal after role commerce our eyes, plays categories as they wish on our Business have to take the drastic step of Maidstone and its surrounding work or other commitments, and has slipped from being an “out- Read said that its “exam performance route is via Provender Way, Grove- sbutinta na dvibrant,i ngwith” to athriving“ go14,000od” economy.schoo l aregisteredft eBer they NoticeGlasses, Board. what’s theis po odifference?r in grammar school terms”. turning to Tonbridge for leader- villages”. finding replacements has become small, medium or large enterprises, we wood Drive South, New Cut Road ship if it is to survive. Association chairman Jim a challenge. In addition, our vol- iOptometriststs most recent Ofsted insinpe ctiothen. UK They can upload an image,He headline,said: “It i s a semi-super selec- and vice versa. haveHea dtriedmas ttoer celebrateMark To mtheki ngreats ha sthings detailed text, contact detailstive s andchoo linksl, whi ctoh gives preference to Committee member and Cox- Tynan (pictured left) said that, al- untary watch liaison officer has howthey bring do jobs,you career choose paths, training,the right Like all products, there are New Cut Road will close from written to parents accepting the their own and associatedh iwebsites.gh-performing pupils, so why is it Grovewood Drive North to heath parish councillor, Cheryl though a merger with Tonbridge left and we’re waiting for the po- entrepreneurship, industry awards, varying degrees of the quality “oneentire lfory fair ,youaccur atande and rwhat’sealis- the The service is quick andd oeasying stoo usebad goly in relative terms? Bearsted Road from 8pm to 6am. Skinner, told Downs Mail: “There had been mooted, he is hopeful lice to appoint a new one.” innovation and prestige. tic” assesment of the school’s pres- toof the spectacle business notice frames. boardHavi npageg Asa i ondbetter-t hourat, it is an Oftsed re- The alternative route is via A20 are so few of us now on the com- Maidstone will survive. Launched in 1982, Neighbour- differenceThat is why we betweenhave been promoting them all? ent position. website and just click onp ort most other schools would de- Ashford Road, A20 Andrew mittee, it’s becoming a real strug- “There are no issues at the coal hood Watch is now the largest our recently enhanced Business Notice quality product should last Now the 570-year-old school, the red post your free sire.” Broughton Way, A249 Sitting- gle. face,” he said. “The scheme is crime prevention movement in Board (BNB) at downsmail.co.uk in longer, be more comfortable, For over a decade we have not “We’ve been unable to encour- very popular. My area – Allington England and Wales, with 2.3mil- wAlisdairhich has n eaBuchananrly 1,300 stud enhasts, been listing here button or The Ofsted report concludes the bourne Road, A249 Bearsted Road, recent months. age more volunteers and if the sit- – has about 30 co-ordinators. In lion member households. hvotedas invit eOptometristd families and car eofrs inthe Year submitlighter, your businessstronger, man agecomement ha s iminpro vedmeasuredteaching Ne wclientsCut Roa dforand spectaclevice versa. And it is paying off. Our BNB is rapidly uation doesn’t change, the some of the more rural areas of Mrs Skinner said: “There has for a Q&A session on February 26. newsvarious link to getsizes started. qorual ity,madebut ther e atore stilllensesinconsis- using a ruler. Instead andbecoming his a place practice where the businessBuchanan world committee may have to close or the borough there might be five or never been a greater need for the Inspectors went to the Barton Road tencies. The report says: “Better scancho ocommunicatel on January 1 5withand 1one6. T another,he last share measure to fitt ea chyouing o v erproperlythe last 18wemo nuseths Ma specialistay D acameray fu nto be taken over by Tonbridge.” establishing new watches, raising six. The average is 10 to 12. Neighbourhood Watch. The po- Optometrists in Snodland has Directory advert The committee provides a cru- funds and materials, and promot- “A new watch is currently being lice have been put under consid- ibeenideas,nspect ioffero votedn w aadvice,s in 2the01 3drum. best up businessin thesu porUK,p ort th e wandork a lralsoeady u nbeder wdesigneday means thforat oyourutcome s hmeasureave im- V IeverySITOR Sdetailto Kent ofLife yourin San- simplyMr T promoteomkins, themselves.pictured, w rAndites: it iisn this area as the best means of proved. Attainment is well above na- dling can dance along with tradi- cial link between watch co-ordi- ing the charity’s crucial work. launched in Sutton Valence, there erable pressure over the years, winning so many awards that THElenses Downs and Mail prescription. A lot face and chosen frame nators on the ground and police The association describes its are another two in the pipeline and they rely on public support to “completelyGovernors i dFREEentifi etod tuse.he very many bringing about those improve- tional levels. The progress made by tional morris dancers as part of pYouositiv cane as puseect sito asf t hmanye repo timesrt and asre -youm likeents .” Businessof practices Directory is usea cu rre unqualifiednt pupils is good.” to ensureMa ytheDay celenseslebration s.can be chiefs in Maidstone. It is central to committee as being made up of and I have a further half dozen at tackle crime.” Alisdair was asked to judge searchable database of mthewithoutain c2018on havingfiden tOpticiant htoa tpayyo uan penny.g p awards.eople Th eSoOfs tedstaffteam n ototed thelphat GC SyouE Ichoosenspectors r ayourted pup ils’designedpersonal Th fore att rac yourtion is also specificplanning a wPerhapsho receiv youe th ehaveir ed unewscation you’dat MG likeS toan d A level rlocalspectaclesesult sbusinesses,dipped in 2suppliers(there017, de veislo pmnoent , blegalehaviou r anrequirements,d welfare parade a nthisd cr oallowswning ce rusem otony How group is wweshare,ill le aasked vseeke ver ytendersw himell pr efor ptoa rane dexplain… importantto make b ut school leaandder stradespeopleinstituted “r iwheregor- as outstanding. for its 2019 Royal Court – the new tcontract,he most trumpetof futur ae newopp oproductrtunities or. putous accountabcompaniesrequirementility system cans” t oadvertisem on to- beTh e qualified).curriculum is “ brproduceoad, rich M diamonday King, Q uecuten, Plenses,rince and Extra police for anti-social behaviour for a year for just £48 GArenfeelersoverno outr’ts r alleforco gspecialist neyeise, h testsow eexpertise.ver ,thethat same?Feelitor progress.IT honlye 2018 useresult suniversitywere and am bqualifieditious” and th e hadjustedeadmas- P riatnce ssoveres, as weal l athousands a tug of war making safer THE question over Neighbourhood ifree.mpro Usevem eit,n tit’ss ar eyours!needed in respect not taken intplusodispensingacc VAT.ount. The in spOpticiansec- ter and d etopu tihelpes “lea d the school and fair ground rides. For details, Watch’s future came as anti-social of teaching and learning and fully tors’ conclusions were generally pos- with passion and determpointsination”. vacrossisit www .kethentlif e.olensrg.uk. for communities behaviour rocked Maidstone and Certainly not, a lot of practices you select your spectacle pinpoint sharpness and the NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch has mid-Kent. fulfil the basic requirements frames. Having the right frame thinnest, lightest lenses become a major player in commu- In Marden, the parish council is not just about looking good possible, improving your nity crime-fighting. called for a meeting with Network for a sight test but no more. (although this is obviously In Maidstone, it has also pro- Rail and British Transport Police to Examinations at my practice field of view by up to 40%! discuss issues at the railway station. very important) but how the vided guidance to housing associ- range from 45-90 minutes Everyone places different ations and developers in a bid to This follows similar summits with ed- frame sits onA your great face, the experience build safety into neighbourhoods ucation and youth services, police, allowing us to perform a demands on their vision – a Maidstone Borough Council and centration of the lenses, the at the construction stage. plethora of additional tests, height, curvature and distance HGV driver, Teacher, Golfer And, say its representatives, it housing associations aimed at scans and examinations. Many “We are new advertisersand from someone 2018, our who works has given support and social co- reigning in troublemakers. from your eyesexperience that the has frame been great. We couldn't believe hesion to thousands of residents. Coxheath listed five cases of anti- practices are still relying on with IT will all have different social behaviour, 10 of violence, four sits all needthe to responsebe taken we into had from the publication. Maidstone committee member Maidstone and the Weald MP issue with Kent Police, adding: and specific needs. We tailor public order offences and two of technology invented over consideration to ensure a Cheryl Skinner said: “It’s not Helen Grant is pictured with Kent Po- “There are about 270 more police each and every lens to the about twitching curtains and spy- criminal damage in just a month. 100 years ago to diagnose perfectly functioning product. lice and Crime Commissioner officers in the county compared Lovely people to deal with, very efficient, we would ing on your neighbours. It’s about Headcorn Parish Council said the Matthew Scott when they met at with when I took office in 2016. conditions like glaucoma. individual, your profession, building better, safer communi- village’s cricket and tennis club had the end of January to discuss polic- However, with the extra demand of- The OCT scanning machine Lenses, surelystrongly they’re recommend all the anyonehobbies to or give sport. it a go.” ties.” held a meeting with police after ing around Brenchley Gardens in ficers are facing, we need more. Chairman Jim Tynan added: members feared they were being Maidstone. “I am proposing using an increase we use in practice (there are same?! “We want families to grow in com- targeted by a gang of youths. She was concerned by the level of in council tax to fund the recruit- only a few dozen in the U.K) Helen Yourston If you have any further munities they can be proud of, and And Larkfield was due to have a drug-taking and intimidating be- ment of another 180 fully-war- can diagnose glaucoma up to This couldn’tDirector, be further B2B Events from questions you would like we want them to look out for each public meeting as Downs Mail went haviour, and called on the crime ranted police officers this year, other - where no household needs to press, to discuss concerns over 8 years sooner than standard theDet truth. Gone are the days to get Alisdair’s opinion chief to push for extra police there. meaning there will be 450 more in ling Ant to feel alone or vulnerable. yob activity in Martin Square. V iques, on please email info@ Mr Scott promised to raise the Kent than when I was elected.” tests which means the chances wheninta gethickness & and coatings “We not only work closely with Collecto rs Fa Response youoptometrists.co.uk can believe in. or visit existing watches, but we also en- of preventing sight loss and Up towere 300 exhibitor their only discernible & outside offering sa inwide tw oran buildingg s www.optometrists.co.uk. courage and recruit new ones, es- progression are significantly vintag , marquees differencee, retro and collectablee of antique s between lenses. , s. Call our sales team now pecially in the ever-expanding Could you help to fight crime? better. We also offer additional Sat 12th & Sun 13th and newly-developed areas of Januar Maidstone. We provide all the MAIDSTONE and District publicity people to attend public ever hours they can. Committee clinics for dry eyes - using the y 2019 Cash onl support and training they re- Neighbourhood Watch Associa- events with the police or com- members don’t need any previous latest Pulsed Light treatmentSaturday : Appointmentsy entrance: at Buchanan Optometrists Saturday: 8.30am (early entr Sunday 10am - 4.30pm y) - £6 quire.” tion is down to five regular com- munity support officers, and a watch experience although, like : 01622 630330 to offer lasting improvement 10am - 3.30pm - £5 Kent County Sho - £4 In addition, the Maidstone asso- y mittee members and calculates it programme coordinator, who many charity volunteers, they will Detling wground, can be booked on , ME14 3JF ciation also fields considerable needs a further five or six to get would decide which events we’d be required to undergo criminal rather than just over the . f entr £1 of oduction tof er on pr original support from outside the town, back to strength. need to cover - school visits, records checks.” counter drops, clinics for Tel: 01636 67653adv citing the backing of parishes like Chairman Jim Tynan told group meetings, village fetes… Anyone interested in joining www.b2bev 1 Mid Kent Living Spring Edition deadline 11th dyslexia, Irlen Syndrome and ents.info West Malling, Hunton, Coxheath, Downs Mail: “We’re currently that sort of thing. the committee should email Mr 01622March 2019. Book 535701 now to avoid disappointment. Boughton Malherbe, Boughton short of a treasurer, someone to “The posts are all voluntary and Tynan at NHWcoordinator@talk- reading difficulties which can Monchelsea and Otterden. manage our website, two or three we’d ask people to put in what- talk.net

Maidstone March 2019 9 News downsmail.co.uk Drink driver ran to woods Still returns to Stones A DRUNK ran for the woods in the middle of the night when he was caught at the wheel of a transit van in a caravan park near Maidstone, to keep team in league a court heard. John Casey (41), of Pelican Court R E L E G AT I O N - t h r e a t e n e d Stones in the 80s, John’s place in was challenged by police at 2.45am Maidstone United has turned to our club’s history is assured and on January 4, after driving at speed an old friend in its time of crisis. now a new generation of our sup- in the Allington area and emerging Former Stones boss John Still porters will get to see the enthu- from the 2020 business park. (right) has come out of retirement siasm, passion and skill this man Officers activated blue lights and with an 18-month deal as Head of has for the game.” sirens but Casey drove on to a car- Football, and will be in charge for Joining Mr Still at the Gallagher avan site in Coldharbour Lane. the crunch match against Leyton Stadium is Hakan Heyrettin, who Maidstone magistrates heard he Orient this weekend. will be the first team coach. tried to run into woods but was de- Mr Still (68), retired from the The pair worked together at tained by police. He refused to give game last month after leaving Luton Town for two and a half a breath sample and screamed: “I Barnet FC, but senior manage- seasons, during the time when the am not giving you f*** all.” ment at Maidstone persuaded Hatters secured promotion back He later recorded a reading of him to take on the challenge of re- into the Football League in 2014. 43mg, the legal limit being 35. taining the club’s position in the A midfielder in his playing Casey apologised for being “stu- highest tier of non-league English days, Mr Heyrettin has spells at pid”, and chairman of the bench, football. clubs including Barnet, Cam- Nigel Cox replied: “You’re dead He was the man in charge of the bridge United and Wycombe right there.” Stones when they briefly entered Wanderers. He moved into man- Mr Cox asked Casey how he the football league 30 years ago. Club chief executive Bill agement in 2003 and, either side would be affected by a fine and 12- His career spanned more than Williams said: “I am absolutely of his time at Luton, managed at month ban, and Casey admitted he 40 years, 2,000 matches and he delighted that John has agreed to Waltham Forest, Thurrock, Grays did not like public transport. has won the National League title join us. He’s one of the best man- Athletic and Braintree Town. He said he did not work but a record three times – firstly with agers to ever grace the non-league Completing the managerial trio “helps out with the family”. Maidstone and then with Dagen- game and his record speaks for it- is Simon Walton, who takes up a Casey was given a 12-month ham (2007) and Luton Town self. player/coach role within the new driving ban and a £265 fine. (2014). “For those who followed the set-up.

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10 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Drink driver ran to woods Still returns to Stones Mother refused A DRUNK ran for the woods in the middle of the night when he was caught at the wheel of a transit van two breath tests in a caravan park near Maidstone, to keep team in league a court heard. A SINGLE mother twice refused He told the court that Griffiths John Casey (41), of Pelican Court R E L E G AT I O N - t h r e a t e n e d Stones in the 80s, John’s place in to give a breath sample when she was initially confused as to why was challenged by police at 2.45am Maidstone United has turned to our club’s history is assured and was stopped by police after a police stopped her, but admitted on January 4, after driving at speed an old friend in its time of crisis. now a new generation of our sup- night out clubbing, a court to having two drinks at a club. in the Allington area and emerging Former Stones boss John Still porters will get to see the enthu- heard. Mr Fernando said: “She simply from the 2020 business park. (right) has come out of retirement siasm, passion and skill this man Yvonne Griffiths (30), of Milton just wanted some more informa- Officers activated blue lights and with an 18-month deal as Head of has for the game.” Street, was suspected of drink tion before agreeing to the test. sirens but Casey drove on to a car- Football, and will be in charge for Joining Mr Still at the Gallagher driving after officers pulled her But she fully accepts that she was avan site in Coldharbour Lane. the crunch match against Leyton Stadium is Hakan Heyrettin, who over in Holland Road at about wrong in refusing to give the Maidstone magistrates heard he Orient this weekend. will be the first team coach. 4am on a Monday. sample.” tried to run into woods but was de- Mr Still (68), retired from the The pair worked together at Prosecuting, James Nichols told He said his client would take tained by police. He refused to give game last month after leaving Luton Town for two and a half the court Griffiths was stopped as the drink-driver rehabilitation a breath sample and screamed: “I Barnet FC, but senior manage- seasons, during the time when the she walked away from the vehicle. course – which can reduce the am not giving you f*** all.” ment at Maidstone persuaded Hatters secured promotion back When challenged by police, she length of ban by a quarter – so He later recorded a reading of him to take on the challenge of re- into the Football League in 2014. refused to be breathalysed. Offi- that she can better understand the 43mg, the legal limit being 35. taining the club’s position in the A midfielder in his playing cers recalled her appearing intox- dangers in future. Casey apologised for being “stu- highest tier of non-league English days, Mr Heyrettin has spells at icated, with glazed eyes and Chairman of the bench, Jean pid”, and chairman of the bench, football. clubs including Barnet, Cam- smelling strongly of alcohol. Sanderson said: “What makes this Nigel Cox replied: “You’re dead He was the man in charge of the bridge United and Wycombe When she was taken to Maid- matter more serious is that you right there.” Stones when they briefly entered Wanderers. He moved into man- stone police station, she again re- twice refused to give a specimen Mr Cox asked Casey how he the football league 30 years ago. Club chief executive Bill agement in 2003 and, either side fused to provide officers with a - first at the roadside then again at would be affected by a fine and 12- His career spanned more than Williams said: “I am absolutely of his time at Luton, managed at breath sample. the police station. This was a de- month ban, and Casey admitted he 40 years, 2,000 matches and he delighted that John has agreed to Waltham Forest, Thurrock, Grays Defending, Peter Fernando liberate refusal to co-operate with did not like public transport. has won the National League title join us. He’s one of the best man- Athletic and Braintree Town. said: “Mrs Griffiths’ record shows police which puts this case in the He said he did not work but a record three times – firstly with agers to ever grace the non-league Completing the managerial trio she is a woman of previous good higher (sentencing) category.” “helps out with the family”. Maidstone and then with Dagen- game and his record speaks for it- is Simon Walton, who takes up a character. She is a single parent to Griffiths pleaded guilty to fail- Casey was given a 12-month ham (2007) and Luton Town self. player/coach role within the new a nine- and an eight-year-old.” ure to provide a specimen for driving ban and a £265 fine. (2014). “For those who followed the set-up. Mr Fernando said that Griffiths analysis on December 10 and her had had other problems which case was adjourned to be sen- had led to depression. tenced later. Will, Estate or Drunk dad’s fine for Power of Attorney dispute? abusing shop worker A DRUNKEN Maidstone man Do you have a dispute regarding how a stumbled into a shop bawling Will, Estate or Power of Attorney has been abuse at a female member of staff as he tried to buy Lucozade, a handled? court heard. Father-of-one Matthew Charles Whitehead Monckton has considerable Jones (33), of London Road, bel- lowed “I’m going to **** you up” experience in helping clients to resolve these when she refused to serve him. difficult disagreements and in many cases James Nichols, prosecuting, told the court Jones tripped as he en- achieving excellent financial results. tered Broadway Express newsagentsinMaidstoneat9am on Call us today on December 30. The court heard Jones had been Miss Hart continued: “Since this out drinking in a club the night be- order, Jones does not have the same 01622 698047 fore, and went into the newsagents tolerance for alcohol.” for an initial no obligation consultation by phone. to buy a Lucozade. The court heard Jones lives alone Defending, Victoria Hart told in a council flat, and is unemployed E-mail [email protected] the court: “He did not approach due to an inherited spinal condi- this lady, although admits his be- tion. Miss Hart said his medication haviour was inappropriate. Alco- had caused liver damage and was holisnotaproblemforhim,andhis he was diagnosed with depression. night out was a one-off.” Chairman of the bench, Jean www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Joneshasapreviousconvictionin Sanderson, said: “Walking into that Whiteheadwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in June 2013, when he was arrested for shop undoubtedly caused a lot of England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne a common assault for which he re- harm. Staff are not in shops to be Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by ceived a two-year community order sworn at.” the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279.

and alcohol treatment. Jones was given a fine of £235. DM2019

Maidstone March 2019 11 News downsmail.co.uk News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News GMooirnegsgtarffeefhonr Gender focus MAIDSTONE Borough Council Bike vandal damages hraos laaundchedda rneawiinnitiaativge, eGo Parish’s historic debt YMCA capturing its of exhibition GFIrVeEennGewo Wjobilsdh,awvheibceheinscdresaitgendetdo MAIDSTONE Museum has toacckolnenreocatdthsiedceodmrmainuangiteyiwssiuthesnain- launched a year-long event focus- tKuerneta.nd its green spaces. ing on sexuality and gender issues MThBeCenwgaintesertos wpriollvoidperiantfeorfrmoma- wnerwi�leyn-polffanbtyedditorceeesse fun sessions on film in history. tfiovne,dcisotnritcatcdtse,paodtvs,icweitahntdheincsepnitrraa-l The project opened on January YOUNGSTERS had the oppor- for parks, said: “We were really thiuonb inwAhsihchfordh.elps individuals, CHURCH leaders have written 31 and aims to give the LGBTQ tunity to get involved in a proj- happy to help South Ward coun- MAIDSTONE YMCA has made groAups,KsecnhtoolsCaonudnbtyusinCesosuesnctoil off a Maidstone parish’s historical community a voice and “to look at ect to plant a wood in cillors with their pTrohjeecRti.ghTthey a short film about the work staff espncookuersamgaenandsaliodo:k a“fTtehrenreatuwree.re debt to the tune of £160,000. artefacts in a different light”. Maidstone, but much of the worked hard to securReevdTorneavtoirons and parents do. seAvecntivietniegsinraenergse forroimginnaullrytu; ritnhge The Diocese of Canterbury broke Skate The museum applied to the work was undone when a dirt- of the trees and eWveilnlmohtatr, der The four-minute promotional atelaamrgewgirlleennowspainccer,ecareseattiong12pownidths the news to the churches of All instructor South East Museums’ Develop- biker rode over the saplings. when digging the froBzisehnogproofund video was filmed and edited by otwr oplatnetaimng bleoaxdees,rsto slipttleitrtipnigckitnhge Saints, St Philip and St Stephen at Elaine Carter ment fund for almost £3,000 of fi- More than 60 pupils from the for them to be planteDdo.veTrhweitnhew Wildwood media over a two-day or creating your own bug hotel. the end of last month. (47) and nancial support. workload east and west.” Oaks Academy had joined the trees will enhance Mangravet period at the Maidstone Sports and A spokesman said: “We can cre- The announcement was made by the Supporting the launch were the KCC is responsible for 250,000 community effort to plant the and, hopefully, give the children Community Centre. skate Bishop of Dover, the Right Rev Reverend Ian 35 people from various walks of aroteadwsidldelidferacinosr,ri2d5o0rpsotnhdrosuagnhdoluat- trees at Mangravet Recreation who got involved an invested in- The YMCA-funded film was marshall Trevor Willmott, who was in town Parrish and life, including Maidstone Borough oguorobnos,ro2u5ghputomhpeilnpgnasttuartieotnhsrivaen.d” Ground. terest in their local park.” posted on YouTube on February 5, Rebecca on January 27 to lead services. treasurer Council’s Cllr Paul Harper. 8,500 soakaways to keep surface The area’s borough councillors Cllr Wilby added: “We all featuring staff and gym users prais- Osbourn (17) Parish priest, the Rev Ian Parrish, He said: ”At least 10% of the pop- water off our roads to maintain worked with Maidstone Borough serve as trustees atLHioanyele Park ing the centre for being “such a nice Voice for Life said: “This came totally out of the at Maidstone ulation identify as non-straight, safe driving conditions. Council’s parks team to source Nature reserve and Mhaavrcehankteen and friendly place to work out.” A MAIDSTONE choirmaster is of- blue and is great news.” YMCA heterosexuals, but in Maidstone KCC cabinet member for high- the trees and get the project off interest in protecting our open It received nearly 1,000 views in fering parishioners the chance to The parish went into the red ticking over. This is known as the to pay for clergy, ministry and they are a hidden minority. ways, Cllr Mike Whiting, said: “By the ground. spaces. its first 10 days of being online. the parents can have a coffee. sions and fitness classes.” get qualifications while they sing. years ago when it was unable to Parish Share. charity work, is just one in a series “This event (and associated trial) increasing the number of drainage Liberal Democrat Cllr Brian “It was rewarding to see how Many people in Maidstone and “We made the video because I Mums and dads have praised Andrew Williamson, of All raise sufficient funds to meet the “A number of years ago we were of costs faced by the three Maid- are the start of the museum cele- engineers we will be better re- Clark (pictured) welcomed the much the children enjoyed work- the surrounding areas have fond don’t think enough people actually the group for its free creche, so par- Saints, wants members of the con- diocese’s expectations. not able to pay the total Parish stone and Tovil churches. brating our LGBTQ communities sourced to respond to residents re- community support to protect the Kent Men of the Trees charity, ing on this project.” memories of roller discos and know what we do here. We’re ents are able to use the gym with- gregation to enrol in NVQ-style Today, despite bucking the na- Share and we went into debt with Medieval All Saints, a Grade I and their heritage and impact. It’s porting faults and to deal with the “important green wedge of and 800 whips from an energy The recreation ground – or part youth groups at the YMCA and pretty tucked away and hidden, out the worries of child care costs. training and assessment courses at tional trend of declining congrega- the diocese. Since then, we’ve not listed building in Mill Street, the start of an interesting partner- emergency work.” land” and wildlife corridor. company. of it – is being considered for a now bring their children along. we aren’t on a main road or any- Today, Maidstone YMCA runs the Mill Street church. tions, and pioneering outreach only been paying our Parish Share spends £8,000 a year on heating ship with the LGBTQ community He said maintenance of roadside But he ended up having to re- Cllr Clark and his council col- possible sell-off or housing rede- Alexa Kersting-Woods, business thing, but we just wanted to show two pre-schools, a health and fit- Choristers and would-be choris- work with Maidstone schools and in full, but we’ve also been paying bills alone. This level of cost has which I am proud to be involved drains takes place every year, plant 50 of the saplings after a leagues Derek Mortimer and Paul velopment by Liberal Democrat- manager at Maidstone YMCA how much we actually do. ness facility including gym and 65 ters can sign up for Voice for Life – charities, the parish has needed to a bit more to settle our debt. prompted parishes across the with.” while those in areas vulnerable to thoughtless vandal rode a motor- Wilby topped up the money for led MBC, despite being a said: “The most popular activity is “But it’s not all about the kids, different group exercise classes a series of qualifications endorsed work flat-out to pay the bills. “The diocese looked at what we country to question the viability of Maidstone Museum is home to a flooding are cleaned every six cycle through the patch of the planting scheme from their strategically important play area definitely our roller-skating events, we do offer a lot of facilities for and a place for adults and children by the Royal School of Church Parish treasurer Lionel Marchant were trying to do to get rid of this relying on grants, legacies and the vast collection of fine art and his- months. Report road flooding at ground. own budgets. (SIPA), according to paperwork it gives a chance for the kids to use adults too, including badminton, to take part in more than 15 differ- Music. For details, email office.all- told Downs Mail: “All parishes pay debt and decided to write it off.” collection tray to guarantee the up- torical artefacts, that are free for all www.Kent.gov.uk. Donations of trees came from Nicola Toulson, MBC’s officer seen by Downs Mail. up their energy after school, and basketball, cricket, over 60s ses- ent sports. [email protected] money into the diocese to keep it The Parish Share, which is used keep of these ancient buildings. visitors to discover. A personal service at a time of loss Michael Lawrence, difficult decisions about how best to remember celebrates life. and his son Robert a loved one and to meet their personal wishes. "Our approach is simple. We sit with you in our along with Kim and With so many years’ experience, Family office or your home, taking you slowly and Angela, are the Funeral Service has learned how to respond to methodically through the various decisions that team behind a the specific and different needs of every you will face and the options available to you. family-owned individual facing one of the toughest times in Sometimes, it’s just good to sit funeral service that their life. This personalised approach includes and talk, and to learn about has been helping the option of home visits and access to a the services and venues families across the friendly voice at the end of the phone around available from someone with Maidstone area for the clock, as well as personal support to clients experience and compassion 40 years. through the bereavement process. before making a decision.” With offices in Bearsted and Barming, Family Michael Lawrence said: "The loss of a loved Funeral Service is a third generation business, one is never easy to cope with, and the added experienced in caring for your needs with stress of making arrangements for the service commitment and understanding. can often bring further emotional upset. With At such a stressful time, they know it’s our experience of making funeral arrangements important to sit and talk to you about every we have learned how to help families have and detail and to assist you in making the often be part of a unique and meaningful service that

4 Cavendish Way, Find us at: Marlborough Parade, Ashford Road, Bearsted, 6 Beverley Road, Barming Funeral Planner Of The Year 2018 Maidstone ME15 8PW Maidstone ME16 9JN South East London Region Winner 01622 260200 01622 260210

12 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk NNeewwss GMooirnegsgtarffeefhonr GRoeanddecrlofsoucures MAIDSTONE Borough Council Bike vandal damages THERE is a nine-day road closure road drainage Grammar school slips in Maidstone so that a zebra cross- has launched a new initiative, Go Parish’s historic debt YMCA capturing its of exhibition GFIrVeEennGewo Wjobilsdh,awvheibceheinscdresaitgendetdo MingAcIaDnSbTeOinNstaElledM. useum has toacckolnenreocatdthsiedceodmrmainuangiteyiwssiuthesnain- lauGnrcohveedwaoyoedarD-lornivgeevNeonrtthfocaunsd- tKuerneta.nd its green spaces. iNngewonCsuextuRaoliatdy awnedregednudeertoiscsluoesse MThBeCenwgaintesertos wpriollvoidperiantfeorfrmoma- newly-planted trees to ‘good’ Ofsted grade ifnrohmistFoerbyr.uary 16 for nine days. wri�en off by diocese fun sessions on film Grovewood Drive North will tfiovne,dcisotnritcatcdtse,paodtvs,icweitahntdheincsepnitrraa-l The project opened on January YOUNGSTERS had the oppor- for parks, said: “We were really thiounb inwAhsihchfordh.elps individuals, CHURCH leaders have written 3c1loasendfraoims NtoewgiveCuthteRLoGaBdTQto tunity to get involved in a proj- happy to help South Ward coun- MAIDSTONE GYMramCAmahrasSmchaodoel itive, but Kent education expert Peter groAups,KsecnhtoolsCaonudnbtyusinCesosuesnctoil off a Maidstone parish’s historical cPormovmenudnietry aWvaoyi.ceTahned a“lttoelronoaktivate ect to plant a wood in cillors with their pTrohjeecRti.ghTthey haasshoslritpfpilemd afrboomutbtehienwg oarnk“sotuaftf- Read said that its “exam performance espncookuersamgaenandsaliodo:k a“fTtehrenreatuwree.re debt to the tune of £160,000. arrotuetfeacistsviina aPrdoivffeenrdenert lWigahyt,”G. rove- Maidstone, but much of the worked hard to securReevdTorneavtoirons satnadndpianrge”ntsodao“.good” school after is poor in grammar school terms”. seAvecntivietniegsinraenergse forroimginnaullrytu; ritnhge The Diocese of Canterbury broke Skate wToohde DmriuvseeSuomutha,pNpeliwedCuttoRothaed work was undone when a dirt- of the trees and eWveilnlmohtatr, der itsTmheostforeucre-nmtiOnufstetedpirnosmpoectitoionna.l He said: “It is a semi-super selec- and vice versa. atelaamrgewgirlleennowspainccer,ecareseattiong12pownidths the news to the churches of All instructor South East Museums’ Develop- biker rode over the saplings. when digging the froBzisehnogproofund viHdeeoadwmaasstfeilrmMedarkanTdomedkiitnesdhbays tive school, which gives preference to New Cut Road will close from otwr oplatnetaimng bleoaxdees,rsto slipttleitrtipnigckitnhge Saints, St Philip and St Stephen at Elaine Carter ment fund for almost £3,000 of fi- More than 60 pupils from the for them to be planteDdo.veTrhweitnhew wWriiltdtewnootod mpaerdeniatsovaecrceapttwinog-dtahye high-performing pupils, so why is it Grovewood Drive North to owrocrrkelaotaindgeyaostuarnodwwnebsut.g” hotel. the end of last month. (47) and nancial support. Oaks Academy had joined the trees will enhance Mangravet “peenritoirdelayt tfhaeirM, aacicdusrtoatneeaSnpdorrtesaalnisd- doing so badly in relative terms? Bearsted Road from 8pm to 6am. A spokesman said: “We can cre- The announcement was made by the Supporting the launch were the KCC is responsible for 250,000 community effort to plant the and, hopefully, give the children tCico”mamssuesnmiteynCteonfttrhee. school’s pres- Having said that, it iskaanteOftsed re- Bishop of Dover, the Right Rev Reverend Ian 3T5hepeaolptelrenfartoivme vraoruitoeusiswvaialksAo20f aroteadwsidldelidferacinosr,ri2d5o0rpsotnhdrosuagnhdoluat- trees at Mangravet Recreation who got involved an invested in- enTt hpeosiYtioMnC. A-funded film was port most other schomolasrswhoaullld de- Trevor Willmott, who was in town Parrish and lAifes,hifnocrldudinRgoaMda, idAsto2n0e BAonrodurgewh oguorobnos,ro2u5ghputomhpeilnpgnasttuartieotnhsrivaen.d” Ground. terest in their local park.” poNstoewd onthYeou57T0u-byeeaorn-oFledbrsucahroyo5l, sire.” Rebecca on January 27 to lead services. treasurer CBorouungcihl’tsoCnllrWPaayu,l HAa2r4p9er.Sitting- 8,500 soakaways to keep surface The area’s borough councillors Cllr Wilby added: “We all wfeahtiuchrinhgasstanffeanrldyg1y,m300ussetrusdpernaitss-, The Ofsted reportOcsobnoculurnde(s17th) e Parish priest, the Rev Ian Parrish, boHuernsaeiRd:o”aAdt, Ale2as4t91B0e%arosftethdeRpooapd-, water off our roads to maintain worked with Maidstone Borough serve as trustees atLHioanyele Park hinagstihnevciteendtrefafmorilbieisnagn“dsuccahrearnsicine management has improved teaching Voice for Life said: “This came totally out of the at Maidstone uNlaetwioCnuitdReonatidfyanads vnicoenv-setrrsaai.ght, safe driving conditions. Council’s parks team to source Nature reserve and Mhaavrcehankteen faonrdafQrie&nAdlsyepssliaocneoton wFeobrrkuaoruyt.2”6. quality, but there are still inconsis- A MAIDSTONE choirmaster is of- blue and is great news.” YMCA heterosexuals, but in Maidstone KCC cabinet member for high- the trees and get the project off interest in protecting our open Int srpeeccetiovresdwneenatrtloyth1e,0B0a0rvtoinewRsoaind tencies. The report says: “Better fering parishioners the chance to The parish went into the red ticking over. This is known as the to pay for clergy, ministry and they are a hidden minority. ways, Cllr Mike Whiting, said: “By the ground. spaces. sitcshfoiorslto1n0Jadnauyasroyf1b5eaindg1o6n.lTinhee.last the parents can have a coffee. steioanchsianngdofvitenrestshcelalsassets.1”8 months May Day fun get qualifications while they sing. years ago when it was unable to Parish Share. charity work, is just one in a series “This event (and associated trial) increasing the number of drainage Liberal Democrat Cllr Brian “It was rewarding to see how insMpeacntiyonpewoapslieni2n01M3.aidstone and su“pWpoertmthaedweotrhkeavlriedaedoy buencdaeurwseayI mMeanusmsthaantdoduatcdosmheasvehapvreaisiemd- VISITORS to Kent Life in San- Andrew Williamson, of All raise sufficient funds to meet the “A number of years ago we were of costs faced by the three Maid- are the start of the museum cele- engineers we will be better re- Clark (pictured) welcomed the much the children enjoyed work- thMe srurTromunkdinisn,g paircetausrehda,vewfroitnesd: dinonth’tisthainrkeaenaosutghhepbeeosptlemaecatnusalloyf tphreovgerodu. Aptftaoirnimtsefnreteiscwreeclhl aeb, soovepanra-- dling can dance along with tradi- Saints, wants members of the con- diocese’s expectations. not able to pay the total Parish stone and Tovil churches. brating our LGBTQ communities sourced to respond to residents re- community support to protect the Kent Men of the Trees charity, ing on this project.” “mGeomveorrnioesrs iodfenrtiofileledrthdeivsecroysmaanndy kbrnionwgingwhabt owute dthoosheereim. pWroev’ree- etinotnsaalrlevaeblsle. Ttoheupserotghreesgsymawdeithby- tional morris dancers as part of gregation to enrol in NVQ-style Today, despite bucking the na- Share and we went into debt with Medieval All Saints, a Grade I and their heritage and impact. It’s porting faults and to deal with the “important green wedge of and 800 whips from an energy The recreation ground – or part pyosuitihvegarsopuepctss aotf tthheereYpMorCt aAndanred- pmreenttys.”tucked away and hidden, ocurtrtehnet pwuoprirliseissogfocohdi.l”d care costs. May Day celebrations. training and assessment courses at tional trend of declining congrega- the diocese. Since then, we’ve not listed building in Mill Street, the start of an interesting partner- emergency work.” land” and wildlife corridor. company. of it – is being considered for a mnoawinbcroingfidtheneitrtchhaitldyroeunnaglopnego.ple weThaereOnf’stteodntaeammaninotreodatdhaotrGaCnSyE- TInosdpaeyct,oMrsariadtsetdonpeupYiMls’CpAersrounnasl The attraction is also planning a the Mill Street church. tions, and pioneering outreach only been paying our Parish Share spends £8,000 a year on heating ship with the LGBTQ community He said maintenance of roadside But he ended up having to re- Cllr Clark and his council col- possible sell-off or housing rede- whAolerxecaeKiveersthtienirg-eWduocoadtiso,nbuatsiMneGsSs tahnidngA, bleuvtewl reejsuusltswdainptpeeddtions2h0o1w7, tdwevoeplorpem-secnhto, obelsh,aavihoeuarlathndawndelffairt-e parade and crowning ceremony Choristers and would-be choris- work with Maidstone schools and in full, but we’ve also been paying bills alone. This level of cost has which I am proud to be involved drains takes place every year, plant 50 of the saplings after a leagues Derek Mortimer and Paul velopment by Liberal Democrat- wmiallnleaagveervearty wMelalipdrsetpoanred tYoMmCakAe hbuotwscmhouoclhlewaedearcstuinaslltyitudtoe.d “rigor- nasesosuftastcailnitdyinign.cluding gym and 65 for its 2019 Royal Court – the new ters can sign up for Voice for Life – charities, the parish has needed to a bit more to settle our debt. prompted parishes across the with.” while those in areas vulnerable to thoughtless vandal rode a motor- Wilby topped up the money for led MBC, despite being a tshaeid:m“oTshteomf ofsuttpuroepuolpapr oarcttuivniittyieiss. ou“sBaucctoiut’nstanboitlitayllsyasbtoeumts”thteo mkiodns-, difTfehreencut rrgircouulupmexiser“cbisreoacdla, srsicehs May King, Queen, Prince and a series of qualifications endorsed work flat-out to pay the bills. “The diocese looked at what we country to question the viability of Maidstone Museum is home to a flooding are cleaned every six cycle through the patch of the planting scheme from their strategically important play area Gdeofvineritneolyrsoruercoroglnleisre-s, khaotwinegvevr,etnhtast, witoer dproogorfefessr. aThloet20o1f8farecsiulilttiseswfeorre and aamplbaciteiofours”adaunldtsthanedhechadildmraesn- Princesses, as well as a tug of war by the Royal School of Church Parish treasurer Lionel Marchant were trying to do to get rid of this relying on grants, legacies and the vast collection of fine art and his- months. Report road flooding at ground. own budgets. (SIPA), according to paperwork imt gpirvoevseamcehnatnscaerefonreethdeedkiidnsrteospuescet andotutlatsketonoi,nitnocalcucdoiunngt.bTahdemininstpoenc-, ttoertaaknedpdaertpiuntmiesor“eletahdanth1e5 sdcihffoero-l and fair ground rides. For details, Music. For details, email office.all- told Downs Mail: “All parishes pay debt and decided to write it off.” collection tray to guarantee the up- torical artefacts, that are free for all www.Kent.gov.uk. Donations of trees came from Nicola Toulson, MBC’s officer seen by Downs Mail. oufptethacehirinegnearngdyleaaftrenrinsgchaonodl,faunlldy btoarssk’ ceotbnaclul,sicornicskweet,reogveenrer6a0llsy pseoss-- ewnitthsppoarsts.ion and determination”. visit www.kentlife.org.uk. [email protected] money into the diocese to keep it The Parish Share, which is used keep of these ancient buildings. visitors to discover.

Maidstone March 2019 13 News downsmail.co.uk Police chief’s race challenge Budding apprentices’ FORMER chief constable of Kent Mike Fuller has released his auto- biography with a no-holds- opportunities at fair barred look back on his life and glittering career. SIXTH formers and scores of Kill The Black One First details leading employers met in Maid- his rise from humble beginnings stone this month to tackle skills to become the first ethnic minor- shortages in the workplace and ity police chief when he led the Kent force from 2004-10. forge new careers. Now retired from the force, his About 1,000 students and repre- autobiography details his mete- sentatives from 50 local companies oric rise through the ranks from a and organisations packed into cadet in the Metropolitan Police, Maidstone Leisure Centre for the and his motivations. town’s second annual apprentice- After spending his childhood in ship fair. care, Fuller worked in CID in Year 12 and year 13 pupils from London and qualified as a barris- Maidstone Grammar School, The ter. But it is the opening of the Lenham School, Oakwood Park, book that graphically illustrates Walderslade Girls School, Valley the deep prejudices of the day Park, The Malling School and that the young Jamaican had to Maidstone Girls’ Grammar were Students from Greenacre Academy, Walderslade at the apprenticeship fair face. among those who attended. cil, Kent Police, the RAF, Transport plays, including simulated flying He found himself targeted as a The event, organised by local for London and Network Rail – with BAE systems, audio visual traitor on the hostile front line of Members of Parliament, gave stu- advertised live vacancies, giving missions with the Army, and UK the Brixton race riots, from which dents the opportunity to meet po- some pupils the opportunity to Border Force’s state-of-the-art the book takes its name. tential employers and explore apply at the fair and secure inter- technology. Kill The Black One First is apprenticeship opportunities. views before leaving the premises. Attendance at the fair was twice published by Bonnier Books and Many of the exhibitors – who in- In addition to chatting with the size of last year’s inaugural is available in hardback for cluded Bank of England, Gallagher professionals, the sixth-formers event and plans are already afoot £16.99. Group, Arriva, Kent County Coun- also experienced interactive dis- for next year’s offering. THE WALNUT TREE Have a hearty Your traditional, family run, local pub. breakfast Kent’s longest running comedy club Every Thursday Have breakfast for – Come and see the future Heart of Kent Hospice stars of comedy live! 21st - 24th March 2019

Live Music - Organise or attend every Friday a breakfast or make (visit website for details) a donation. Jam Night - First Monday The money you raise of the month will support our nurses to provide outstanding care to our patients Live Band Quiz Night and their families. Third Monday of Every Month

Dogs welcome on their leads Lovely beer garden and car park. Varied bar menu served every day 12noon-8.30pm. Come try our famous ‘Build a Burger’ meals! Find us opposite the entrance to Oakwood Park www.hokh.org/breakfast Tonbridge Road, Maidstone ME16 8SR Heartwww.hokh.org/breakfast of Kent Hospice, Preston Hall, Aylesford, Kent, ME20 7PU 01622 727260 Heart of Kent Hospice @heartofkenthosp 01622 790195 email : [email protected]

web : www.thewalnuttreemaidstone.com Heart [email protected]@Heartofkenthosp Kent Hospice, Preston Hall,Heart Aylesford, of Kent heartofkenthospiceKent, Hospice ME20 7PURegistered charity number: 298164 RCN: 298164

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14 March February 2019 Hearty_Breakfast_A4_Advert.indd 1 24/01/2019 11:32 downsmail.co.uk News Spirited night VICTORIA’S cabaret club near Maidstone throws its doors open Empty homes penalty to the spirit world in March. International clairvoyants Pauline Mason and Tracy Fance will give an evening of readings could hit sellers hard at the club on the A20 on Friday, March 1 until 11pm. HOMEOWNERS whose proper- the assumption that absent owners One-to-one readings will also ties stand empty and unfurnished used fewer public services than be available to book on the night, will have a hefty “penalty tax” residents. with the girls’ team of readers for levied against them, Maidstone But Mr McGinnes said offering £20. Borough Council has ruled. discounts meant other taxpayers Doors open at 7pm. The per- The authority, which already had to pick up the bill. formance starts at 7.30pm. charges a 50% premium for build- Councillor Patrik Garten (pic- Tickets are £10. Call 01622 ings unoccupied for two years or tured) said there are currently 143 859331 to book. more, will hike up bills from April. properties in the borough paying a Owners should expect to be hit 50% premium. But he was with a 100% premium after two adamant that, far from generating Sister Act date years, 200% after five and 300% extra income, the council would be BRING some halleluiah into your after 10. “shooting ourselves in the foot by life with the Gospel Touch Choir’s Council officials believe the raising the penalty tax any higher”. tribute to the movie Sister Act at move will tackle pressures on He feared that legal wording Maidstone Leisure Centre. housing stocks as well as local gov- price and steps taken to sell the around properties being “substan- The MOBO award-winning ernment finance. property were reasonable. This tially unfurnished” would see choir will be giving powerful But, crucially, councillors chose would be complex and adminis- “people running off to IKEA to put solos and energetic performances not to exempt people struggling to tratively onerous.” a bit of furniture in”, as a ruse to of hits including Joyful, Joyful sell their homes. The council’s latest move has dodge a council tax hike. and Dancing In The Street, from Stephen McGinnes, the council’s been prompted by the Govern- Despite his reservations, council- 6.30-9pm, on Saturday, April 6. director of Mid Kent Services, said: ment’s introduction of regulations lors voted 12 to one in favour of the Special guests will include Jer- “This option would require inves- that grant local authorities the dis- increase. main Jackman, from The Voice. tigation as to how long properties cretion to increase penalties. The current standard council tax Doors open at 6pm. Call the have been on the market and a Historically, empty properties charge for a Band D property in the leisure centre on 01622 220232. judgement as to whether the sale enjoyed council tax discounts on borough is £1,735.24.

You are invited to join us for: LAST NIGHT AT THE PROMS on Saturday 9th March 2019 at 7.30pm at e Salvation Army 74-80 Union Street, Maidstone (ME14 1ED). e evening will feature: Medway Singers (Conductor: Neil Jones) Eva Stout (Vocal Soloist) Neil Atkinson (French horn) Maidstone Salvation Army band (Bandmaster: Stuart Atkinson)

Maidstone March 2019 15 The Garden Of England Daycare Compassionate Day CCaompare ins Maidsionastteone Da y CaMon,re Tinue Maid, Weds t &one Fri Mon,from T9u.30e, W- 3.30pmed & Fri from 9.30 - 3.30pm At our Daycare Centre St StephensSt Stephens Squa Square,re, Tovil, Tovil, Maid stone Fun activitiesMaidstone, and outing sME15, exerci s6REe classes, coffee Fun amctivitiesorning sa, nqdu iozzuestin agnds, exer muccihse m ocrlasses,e. coffee mornings, quizzes and much more. Full & half days available. - Mini bus transport Full & half daysusb avjecatilab to ale.va -il Mabiliini tbusy. transport Two cosurbsjee clut ntcho ava andil arbiliefrety.sh ments Two coursethro homeughou cookedt the da lyun. ch and Greraetfre sushppmeortnt frso mthro fuullyg hotrauinedt th ec aday.re st aff. Great support from fully trained care staff. Free assessment and trial day available Freein caludingssessm luentc hand and tr rialef rdeshmenay availablts. e includingFull daylun c£39h a Halfnd r dayefreshmen £25 ts. ReasonablyCall priced ourHomecare team services on also available Call01622 our t6eam747 33on ally0son@goed1622 67ay4ca7r33e.co.uk [email protected] www.goedaycare.co.uk

Brand New Straight Stairlifts Reconditioned Stairlifts Tel No: 01622 756128 Next day Mobile: 07905 182363 installation www.stairliftstoday.co.uk [email protected] 49 West Park Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 7AF Call us today to request your FREE, no obligation, home survey.

16 Maidstone March 2019 “Safe bathrooms Easy Access Bathrooms at sensible prices”

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Maidstone March 2019 17 News downsmail.co.uk

MP HELEN Grant has continued her “It was school Science Day and the mar School for Girls (MGGS) where tour of schools with two stops in topic was volcanoes, so Pompeii and the whole of year eight (pictured) as- MP Helen Maidstone. Vesuvius featured prominently. Is sembled to engage with Helen on Mrs Grant visited Tiger Primary the Prime Minister strict? was a ques- her work as an MP. meets with School in Loose and Maidstone tion that created some interest.” Topics included the referendum, Grammar School for Girls . When asked what Brexit was, Joe her business career and her views on A spokesman said: “The primary (8), assertively explained that ‘it is gender balance in Parliament. pupils on school session was with year 3 pupils not doing the same thing as we used Mrs Grant said: “I am so pleased aged 7 and 8, and everyone includ- to do’. Mrs Grant responded: “Well, that our schools are actively pro- ing the teachers had a chance to put he’s not wrong is he?” moting politics and the role of civil school tour a question to Helen. Next stop was Maidstone Gram- society to our next generations.” Fizz, food and Artist’s exhibition to fun at festival IF YOU drink enough Prosecco and gin, dancing will undoubt- edly follow. help fund’s research That’s why Gin & Dance re- turns to Maidstone’s Mote Park AN ARTIST diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease is showcasing her on Saturday, June 29. Organisers are promising a talent by putting on an exhibition in Allington. feast of Italian street food, live Shelagh Oates (67), of Foxden jazz and swing music, a guest ap- Drive in Downswood, is hosting pearance by the UK’s best Take an art display to raise money for That tribute band and, of course, a Parkinson’s disease research. variety of Prosecco, gins and Mrs Oates said: “I just want peo- cocktails. ple to realise it is not the end of the The event will be split into two world. As long as you stay positive sessions running from noon to then you can get through anything. 5pm and 6pm to 11pm. Details “My husband and I live by the from www.iloveproseccofesti- word overcome. I have been very val.com. lucky and want to help others, I have had a lot of support from my Sicknote tally husband.” DOCTORS in west Kent – includ- Shelagh was diagnosed in De- ing Maidstone and Malling – cember 2011, after finishing her last signed 50,932 sick notes last year. year teaching and retiring with her The largest proportion – nearly husband, Bill. Shelagh Oates with sisters Annie Bailey and Maureen Lay 9,000 or 18% – was related to She was given the idea to host an mental health conditions. Nearly art exhibition by a friend to raise Shelagh is, obviously, with Parkin- image was to be done in black and 5,000 were connected to muscu- money to go towards Parkinson’s son’s you shake and don’t really white and show what the artist loskeletal complaints. research, and contacted Allington have that control, so for her to be thought represented Maidstone. The latest NHS figures equate Library. able to sketch these detailed and “Shelagh came a very close sec- to 139 sick notes being signed Her sister Annie Bailey (53) said: intricate drawings is amazing.” ond so her drawing of the Arch- each day in the region. “Once people are diagnosed with Shelagh’s work also attracted the bishops’ Palace is on the tea towel, Parkinson’s, they think that’s it and attention of Maidstone Museum, a key ring and a mug.” just accept that’s what life is going who now prints her work onto From March 1 to March 28, every Charity sale to be like. merchandise as part of their mar- Tuesday and Thursday, Shelagh MAIDSTONE Mencap's Jumble “Shelagh is mainly part of this keting programme. will be putting on zentangle work- and Nearly New Sale is being organisation to help bring aware- Sam Butler, operations manager shops from 3-5pm and meet the held at Cobtree Hall, School Lane, ness towards the research into the at the museum, said: “Two years artist sessions from 2:30-5pm at off Willington Street at 2.30pm on disease, which helps reduce the ago I ran a competition for a new Allington Library. Saturday, March 9. symptoms and massively benefits range here in the shop. Zentangle is produced with an Contact Suzannah at s.con- people with Parkinson’s. “It was judged by Graham ink pen, sketching a series of ab- [email protected] for more de- “I think what is special about Clarke and an internal panel, the stract patterns all put together. tails.

18 Maidstone March 2019 downsmail.co.uk MBC v KCC | News High Court case ‘is strong’ MAIDSTONE Borough Council is confident it can win its tax payer-funded High Court action against Kent County Council, ac- cording to papers seen by Downs Mail. The hearing date has been set for March 21, and Liberal Democ- rat-led MBC has been advised by its legal counsel it has a “strong case”. MBC’s Lib Dem leader Martin Cox and council chief executive Alison Broom claim they are seek- ing “clarity” on the use of cash contributions from housing devel- opers (Section 106 money). KCC wanted to use £200,000 MBC chief Alison Broom, above, from three developments on the A274 to fund studies into a Leeds- and left, the High Court in London Langley relief road. MBC ear- but opted for the proceedings to The Judicial Review was instigated across the borough.” marked that money for changes to continue.” by MBC and brought against KCC Conservative and Labour group roads. We understand that Tory-run in May 2018, after all attempts to leaders have jointly urged MBC In an internal memo, Patricia KCC offered to return the £200,000 settle a matter over the use of spe- management and political leader- Narebor, head of legal partnership and fund the relief road surveys it- cific S106 money obtained as part ship to “put a hold” on any further at MBC, tells senior figures in the self. A statement from Maidstone of the statutory planning process action and resolve the dispute. authority: “Maidstone has been Borough Council said: “Maidstone proved unsuccessful.” KCC leader Paul Carter said: “It advised by leading counsel that Borough Council (MBC), can an- Leader of Maidstone Borough shouldn’t be happening, that’s all the council has a strong case in nounce that it has been informed Council, Cllr Martin Cox, said: I’m saying.” many respects and the case is today (23 January, 2019), that the “We hope that this matter can be Despite repeated requests for an being progressed accordingly.” date for the High Court of Justice resolved before the forthcoming update on how much the tax- It added: “A draft proposal to Queen’s Bench Division Court hearing in March. Throughout this payer has paid (or is likely to pay) settle the claim was reached with hearing of the Judicial Review be- process we have remained open to for the High Court action, MBC representatives of KCC prior to the tween the authority and Kent all discussions and negotiations has refused to comment. (2018) oral hearing; however, KCC County Council (KCC), is to be with KCC, and will continue to do declined to finalise the settlement, held on Thursday, 21 March 2019. so for the benefit of all residents See letters pages, 46&47 Former leader dumps the Tories for indies A FORMER Conservative borough borough M B C expected on the roads because of council leader has resigned the councillor c h a l - MBC’s 17,600 new home allocation party whip to become an inde- a few l e n g e d in the Local Plan. This is likely to in- pendent. y e a r s K C C crease to 25,000 houses when the Chris Garland, who represents back and I o v e r plan is reviewed. Shepway north, was in charge from shan’t for- £200,000 MBC’s management hopes that 2008 until 2014 when the Tories get him in S106 modal shift will persuade local mo- held a working majority at the au- for that. c o n t r i - torists to walk, ride bikes and use thority. He is a butions buses instead. We understand that he did not man who f r o m Cllr Cox (pictured on right) ad- see eye to eye with current group c o m - A 2 7 4 mitted to Downs Mail last year that leader, John Perry, and many of his m a n d s housing he was not “100% sure” that modal members over Maidstone Borough immense develop- shift will work. Council’s decision to take Kent respect at m e n t s At a public meeting, Cllr Perry County Council to the High Court the town w h i c h once described “modal shift” as the over the spending of developer con- hall.” K C C “two most dreaded words in the tributions (or S106 cash). But no matter who wins the ar- wanted to spend on surveys for a English language”. Cllr Perry paid a warm tribute to gument at the High Court, the tax- relief road. MBC is adamant the Cllr Garland was approached for his former colleague, pictured on payer picks up the tab, he said. money goes towards accommodat- a comment. He did not respond. left. Cllr Perry added: “We have got a ing public transport. But in a news report, he was Cllr Perry said: “I have huge re- pretty solid group at the moment. MBC leader Martin Cox and his quoted as saying: “Unfotunately, I spect for Chris but he has decided There are some who may have had chief executive Alison Broom claim have some fundamental differences to join the independents. He does difficult dealings with KCC in the they have taken the action to pro- with the group’s policies and it just not like my stance on the judicial re- past and that has shaped their vide “clarity” on the issue of S106 wasn’t right for me to go on defying view in that I want it put on hold thinking. money disposal. the party whip.” and for the leaderships of both au- “But I have come pretty fresh The Liberal Democrat-led council According to the piece, he feels thorities to speak to each other. from the outside with virtually no is now wedded to the concept of that going to the High Court will “I owe Chris a great deal as it was baggage and I have taken the view “modal shift” to mitigate against achieve clarity and it is the right he who persuaded me to become a that I have taken.” the tens of thousands of extra cars thing to do.

Maidstone March 2019 19 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Cancer targets Call for 999 investment A PERFORMANCE review of troubled South East Coast Ambulance Serv- ice is recommending additional investment by each of the budget-hold- ing NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in its area to recruit more staff and invest in vehicles. geing closer The service is still miss- ing most national targets but is closer to hitting the MAIDSTONE and the rest of target (seven minutes) for West Kent are still among the By Dennis Fowle the most urgent calls. worst areas in England at meet- Across its full area SE- Kent Clinical Commissioning ing national cancer targets – but CAmb is averaging 7.31 Group (CCG) says the recovery the strong drive towards im- minutes but in West Kent it plan by Maidstone and Tunbridge provements now appears to be is 8.08 minutes. Wells hospital trust “is expected producing results. The national standards to show a positive impact on per- The significant target for pa- for non-urgent calls are formance”. tients having definitive treatment two hours or three hours The trust has faced (and is within 62 days of an urgent GP re- but in West Kent SECAmb meeting) challenges on capacity, ferral improved to 68.52% in No- is hitting four hours and al- particularly on radiology staffing vember, compared with 62.14% in most six hours. October. This compares with a and diagnostic equipment, but national target of 85%. now is experiencing a significant The two-week target for pa- increase in demand due to patient tients to be seen by a consultant growth. The increase in two-week wait Brexit impact considered after an urgent GP referral im- THE risks to the local health scene as the UK leaves the EU are proved in November to 87.65% referrals to the trust is 22% com- pared with 13% nationally. being considered by the budget-holding NHS West Kent CCG. compared with 79.64% in Octo- Patients and clinicians could be warned not to stockpile med- ber. The national target is 93%. It has added clinics to meet this demand and is working with the ications and this may lead to 28-day prescribing for most pa- All patients who are referred tients, who will be asked to order only what they need. must go through the diagnostic CCG to prioritise patients with high-risk symptoms. This in- Traffic management may increase local traffic levels and im- process, but more than 90% of pact on NHS staff movements and service delivery. them will not be diagnosed with creased trend is expected to con- tinue and services need to be This is leading to risk assessments, an input in to Brexit traffic cancer. plans and proposals for specific solutions. The budget-holding NHS West planned to meet future growth.

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20 Maidstone March 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Party aackers Uninsured cars seized KENT Police officers have successfully seized eight cars since the begin- ning of the year in a drive to improve the safety of residents and visitors to the town and surrounding villages. appear at court These included a Ford Transit seized in Station Road, Headcorn on January 17, a Fiat Punto stopped and seized in Romney Place on Janu- TWO drunk horse racing enthusi- when one of their party was ary 18 and a Mercedes 220 checked in Mill Street and seized on Janu- asts avoided jail for kicking a grabbed and held over a balcony. ary 22. pensioner in the ribs and hitting The defence lawyer said: “There Inspector Gia- a mother in front of her children was a great deal of provocation and comino Vail said after a day a sinking pints, a court excessive self-defence, they would in some instances heard. contend.” the uninsured The men, both members of the The court heard Collins recently drivers were travelling community, invaded a started a tarmacking job whileAck- found to have private 70th birthday party at a so- leton hopes to get a roofing job. committed addi- cial club after a dispute in the smok- They come from stable families. tional driving of- ing area. Nathan Ackleton (18) and Probation officer Lauren Packham fences. James Collins (25) threw punches at said: “Mr Collins was remorseful Mr Vail said: party-goers when they tried to gate and took full responsibility for his “When the town crash the celebration in Ashford. part in the affray.” He said he was centre team are Prosecuting at Maidstone Magis- “ashamed” of his conduct in front of on patrol re- trates’ Court, James Nichols said young people as he had two chil- sponding to inci- they were seen hitting party-goers. dren of his own. dents of crime and disorder, they are always alert for drivers who are Another woman was hit in front Ackleton, who pleaded guilty to committing road traffic offences and potentially endangering others. of her children and an elderly man assault and affray, received a 12- “Some of the uninsured drivers have also been reported for offences was “kicked in the ribs”. month community order, told to including driving without a licence and failing to stop at a red traffic Ackleton, of Sittingbourne, and perform 120 hours of unpaid work light. Collins, of Chegworth, left the scene and pay £285. “Law-abiding road users and pedestrians are put at unnecessary risk as police arrived. Collins received the same sen- by those who flout the law and we are committed to repeatedly tar- Isobel Corrigan, defending, said tence but must do 150 hours unpaid geting these drivers to make the roads safer. the pair remembered little of the work and a rehabilitation activity “Our message is simple, if you drive uninsured be prepared to have fighting itself. They claimed there programme for assault, affray and your vehicle seized and face a significant fine.” was provocation from the other side criminal damage.

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Maidstone March 2019 21 Business Focus Focus downsdownsmail.co.ukmail.co.uk Relationship on the Rocks The title of this article processes. If emotions are running high, taking • The person that leaves is often a co-owner of may conjure an image a step back can regain the ability to think more the family home. The absent person is still of cold, troubled waters clearly. Taking time to reflect and acting bound by their responsibilities to mortgage with potential dangers rationally can avoid lots of anguish. Many lenders and should ensure that the home and above and below the people regret actions/words spoken in the heat contents remain protected by insurance. The surface. If this is a of the moment but the damage done remains. leaving party continues to have rights to enter, prospect facing you ideally on giving reasonable notice. • Think carefully about the consequences of then look to get acting irresponsibly, especially when it relates to • Analyse your financial resources to work out sensible support from how they can meet everyone’s needs. Drawing Dawn Harrison your children or to money. Children are very Head of Family team the outset to help you up a priority list of what you and your estranged vulnerable when parents separate, they need to manage the turmoil. partner/spouse need is important. Enquiring know both parents love them and will continue Below are some pointers to consider what help is available in the form of benefits will to be there. Financial pressures can lead to • It may not be too late to repair the damage. also assist in continuing to meet the family’s relationship problems. Running two households Lots of organisations offer support and guidance budget. will only compound any financial pressures. on practical issues people face when threatened • Taking early advice can help you steer a safer with separation. Relate Counselling can help • When one person leaves the family home, they course through the dilemmas that separation identify if a relationship can be repaired or guide rarely take all their belongings with them at brings. Try to preserve some respect for the them to come to terms with the loss of their once. Sensible arrangements need to be agreed other person no matter how difficult the union. If reconciliation is not possible, a to allow them to return for their remaining items. situation. Talk to one of the specialist family specialist family lawyer is the next point of call. Joint items within the home should be preserved team at Whitehead Monckton who have a • Explore the alternative dispute resolution until an agreement can be reached on a fair wealth of experience in these matters. opportunities like mediation or collaborative distribution. Canterbury 01227 643266 Maidstone 01622 698051 Tenterden 01580 767540 www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk

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Saturday 2nd December The family warmly Lots happening at The George and in Yalding. A barbeque, raffles, Santa will make a guest appearance, face painting and lots more. welcome you to The George Inn, Yalding. Sunday 24th December Music with DJ Julie Atmospheric family friendly pub, Sunday 31st December DJ John with lots of party fun! outside events. We also have Curry & a Pint Mondays & Tuesdays. Pizza & Pasta special Thursdays. Fish Fridays & Saturdays. 01622 814376 Christmas menu available from 3rd December Sunday Roasts 12-8pm The George Yalding (booking advisable). Benover Road, Yalding, Now showing Maidstone, Kent ME18 6EJ www.thegeorgeyalding.co.uk 22 March February 2019 Maidstone Weald October 2017 21 downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Computerman goes back to its roots We are excited to announce Computerman There is an ample car park and our has now moved to Unit 9, Spectrum premises are conveniently located in the Business Estate in Parkwood Industrial popular Parkwood Industrial estate with Estate. Some of our existing customers easy access from Maidstone town and may remember we used to trade from this surrounding areas. exact same unit some 14 years ago and At Computerman we provide a broad now we’ve got it back. We completely With our constantly expanding client base spectrumof services for both businesses and renovated the premises which now we are looking to grow our team this year, home users such as: virus and spyware removal, comprises of open plan office space, but with the clear objective to maintain our repairs and upgrades, data backup and recovery, customer waiting area and workshop. personal and friendly customer support. network installation and setup, VoIP, IT Support, web design and development and many more. We are proud to announce 3 new products in our portfolio: • VOIP Telephone Systems • No Contract Mobile SIMs • Superfast Fibre Broadband For very competitive no obligation quote for business or home please do not hesitate to contact us – we’d be happy to help! 01622 677677 [email protected] www.computermanuk.com Unit 9, Spectrum Business Estate Bircholt Road, Maidstone, ME15 9YP Denture care to make you smile SB Denture Design Ltd (formerly known as SB repairs and adjustments through to new sets we Dental Laboratory) are now pleased to offer our can offer a complete denture care service. SB Denture Design Ltd offer services directly to the public. SB was founded in Although the work is done ‘in house’ with 1989, producing quality denture work for dentists partial dentures and other more complex cases FREE consultations and can in Maidstone and the surrounding areas. we work closely with the dentist. It is essential advise you on the best Since then Steve, the founder of SB Denture that the health of any remaining teeth are denture options available. Design has been clinically trained so we are able checked out before denture construction. This is to provide our services directly to you. He gained necessary to ensure the prosthesis is a long term further clinical qualifications at the University of solution. We can accept referrals from you own Central Lancashire (with merit) and this enables dentist or we can arrange an appointment with him to treat patients directly thus alleviating the one of our dental colleagues at your first need to visit the dentist for the impressions, appointment. denture try in and the fitting of the dentures. Any Having the laboratory on the premises reduces necessary after care would be provided by us as the waiting time for some services, some services well. With over 25 years of experience in like repairs can even be done while you wait. It is manufacturing all styles of dental appliances, we also an advantage as some larger adjustments can now hand craft your dentures for you from can be done in house start to finish. By dealing directly with the We pride ourselves in making sure everyone we technician who will make your dentures we can treat is happy with the product we produce and tailor your prosthesis to your own personal want our patients to have the confidence that individual requirements. their denture has been constructed with the Using only the highest quality materials and all utmost care and using only quality materials. Our the latest technologies you are guaranteed a aim is to make people comfortable with our product of the very highest standard. From treatment and confident with our product.

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Maidstone March 2019 23 News downsmail.co.uk No-show costs PATIENTS not turning up for ap- Farmers fear for harvest pointments cost the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust around £4m in 2018. Data from NHS England showed over Brexit uncertainty that more than 33,000 patients failed to show at a cost to the tax payer of FRUIT farmers are becoming in- for the picking season. A spokes- around £120 each. creasingly worried about their woman added: “We should be fine A spokesman for the British Med- harvest rotting on the trees this this year, but with Brexit, nobody icalAssociation said: “We should not year because of continued uncer- knows. It’s all a bit of a nightmare, stigmatise patients who may not be tainty over Brexit. if I am honest.” able to attend for legitimate reasons. Whilst plans are in place to set Canterbury-based AG Recruit- “Given the current unprecedented up registration schemes for foreign ment managing director Douglas pressure, patients should make permanent staffers to carry on in Amesz, who acts as an agent for every possible effort to rearrange their UK roles beyond departure, farms looking for foreign labour, their appointments so that another the industry is becoming con- said: “It is not possible to stop free- person is able to receive treatment in cerned how it will cope in 2019. dom of movement overnight. their place.” Foreign workers have been ar- “The economic harm would be riving in Kent in their thousands catastrophic. If there is no deal, I for years, but with freedom of might be some sort of waiver sys- feel very strongly that the Govern- Plants seized movement to the UK about to end, tem this year because they would- ment would have to continue with A MAN was arrested after police growers are unsure how they will n’t want to let fruit rot on the trees. the status quo for the rest of 2019. seized five cannabis plants at a pri- be able to recruit this season. “Apart from the permanent over- You couldn’t just shut the door. vate address in Maidstone. A spokeswoman for Bardsley seas staff, we need about 200 sea- “If there is no deal, there cannot Officers were conducting an early Farm, of Chart Sutton, which sonal workers and pickers across be an implementation period. We morning door knock at the property grows apples, pears and apricots, the business. We use an agency to just don’t know and most people on January 15 where a micro said the business needs about 200 get them in, but we are by no are trying to fill that blank.” cannabis cultivation was located. A seasonal workers. means the only farm around here.” The National Farmers’ Union spokesmanfor KentPolice said: “Of- Asked about recruiting for this At Chegworth Valley in Water confirmed there is a feeling of un- ficers seized five cannabis plants and year’s harvest, she said: “The truth Lane, Chegworth, the farms needs certainty among members but be- a quantity of cannabis buds, and the is that we really don’t know – there about 100 workers. However, per- lieves “we will be all right this man was subsequently released is so much uncertainty. manent staff normally bring in up summer but the future will be a pending further enquiries.” “You would assume that there to 50 friends and family members different matter”.

24 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News No-show costs Heater blaze PATIENTS not turning up for ap- Farmers fear for harvest Drug addicts caught on A FAULTY fan heater may have pointments cost the Maidstone and caused a fire in Maidstone. Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust The blaze started at a house in around £4m in 2018. MurrainDriveonJanuary27andfive Data from NHS England showed over Brexit uncertainty fire engines and crews were sent to that more than 33,000 patients failed CCTV stealing groceries the scene at around 10.30pm. to show at a cost to the tax payer of FRUIT farmers are becoming in- for the picking season. A spokes- TWO Maidstone women desper- attended all their meetings.” Two residents suffered smoke in- around £120 each. creasingly worried about their woman added: “We should be fine ate to kick their heroin habits Chairman of the bench, Nigel halationandweretreatedatthescene A spokesman for the British Med- harvest rotting on the trees this this year, but with Brexit, nobody stole groceries worth £50 from a Cox told Simpson she is in a byparamedics.Theyhadescapedthe icalAssociation said: “We should not year because of continued uncer- knows. It’s all a bit of a nightmare, Spar store, a court heard. slightly different situation to buildingbeforethe999crewsarrived stigmatise patients who may not be tainty over Brexit. if I am honest.” Rachel Hobbs (31) and Keri Hobbs, as she was not on a com- at the address. able to attend for legitimate reasons. Whilst plans are in place to set Canterbury-based AG Recruit- Simpson (37), of Postley Road, ap- munity order at the time of the Localsreportedseeingflamescom- “Given the current unprecedented up registration schemes for foreign ment managing director Douglas peared at Maidstone Magistrates crime. He said: “The offence is not ing out of an upstairs window. pressure, patients should make permanent staffers to carry on in Amesz, who acts as an agent for Court after CCTV found them the biggest in the world, but I hope Firefighters were at the scene for every possible effort to rearrange their UK roles beyond departure, farms looking for foreign labour, working together in a bid to steal you get out ontotheothersideofthis more than two hours. their appointments so that another the industry is becoming con- said: “It is not possible to stop free- £50 worth of groceries from the muddle with drugs. Please continue The fire was believed to have person is able to receive treatment in cerned how it will cope in 2019. dom of movement overnight. Spar store in Staplehurst. with your appointments.” spread from an upstairs bedroom, their place.” Foreign workers have been ar- “The economic harm would be Prosecuting, Julie Farvarce said Probation officer Matthew Morish across the landing and down the riving in Kent in their thousands catastrophic. If there is no deal, I last June the women, pictured leav- confirmed the women, who are both stairway Plants seized for years, but with freedom of might be some sort of waiver sys- feel very strongly that the Govern- ing court,were seen on camera se- jobless, had made progress in deal- movement to the UK about to end, tem this year because they would- ment would have to continue with lecting various items off the store ing with their drug habits. A MAN was arrested after police growers are unsure how they will n’t want to let fruit rot on the trees. the status quo for the rest of 2019. shelves and Simpson putting them Mr Cox then said to Hobbs: “You In big trouble seized five cannabis plants at a pri- be able to recruit this season. “Apart from the permanent over- You couldn’t just shut the door. in a bag held by Hobbs. are in a much more dangerous posi- A MAIDSTONE man had his wife’s vate address in Maidstone. A spokeswoman for Bardsley “If there is no deal, there cannot seas staff, we need about 200 sea- The pair then headed for the exit tion and you could go to prison. But carseizedafterhewascaughtdriving Officers were conducting an early Farm, of Chart Sutton, which be an implementation period. We sonal workers and pickers across with no attempts to pay. When ar- Manjit Tessi said: “What a desper- we are not going to send you to it without insurance. morning door knock at the property grows apples, pears and apricots, just don’t know and most people the business. We use an agency to rested and interviewed, both ate set of circumstances. These two prison and the reason is that you HewasstoppedinTylandLaneon on January 15 where a micro said the business needs about 200 are trying to fill that blank.” get them in, but we are by no women made “no comment” to women are vulnerable through have been making progress with January 31 at 11am in his spouse’s cannabis cultivation was located. A seasonal workers. The National Farmers’ Union means the only farm around here.” the footage but decided to admit their history and in their financial your treatment.” Asked about recruiting for this confirmed there is a feeling of un- FordFocusby membersoftheCom- spokesmanforKent Police said: “Of- At Chegworth Valley in Water the offences when they got to circumstances. Hobbs was given an 18-month year’s harvest, she said: “The truth certainty among members but be- munity Safety Unit. ficers seized five cannabis plants and Lane, Chegworth, the farms needs court. Magistrates heard Hobbs “The only saving grace in this sit- community order and a £285 fine is that we really don’t know – there lieves “we will be all right this A spokesman for Kent Police said: a quantity of cannabis buds, and the about 100 workers. However, per- was in danger of going to prison as uation is that they have both made along with 80 hours of unpaid work. is so much uncertainty. summer but the future will be a “The local man was reported for man was subsequently released manent staff normally bring in up she was in breach of two sus- incredible progress in (treatment Simpson was given an 18-month “You would assume that there different matter”. driving without insurance and the pending further enquiries.” to 50 friends and family members pended sentences. Defending, for) the misuse of heroin and have community order and a £335 fine. !! vehicle was seized.” !"#$%&& Local Jobs for $ Local People

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Maidstone March 2019 27 News downsmail.co.uk Bridge drama man rescued Extra police to hit the A MAN who threatened to throw himself off a railway bridge in Maidstone sparked a major police response and a traffic diversion. streets, reveals PCC The 999 scramble came after he was spotted with his legs dan- gling over the side of the crossing KENT Police plan to recruit 180 more officers in the coming year, using in Sittingbourne Road, at about funds raised by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott. 11.20am on February 6. Cars were diverted from the The PCC says the number of full- scene while Kent Police attended time officers in Kent will increase and handed the matter to British to 3,632, returning the force to 96% Transport Police. of its peak strength from a decade An eye-witness said: “He was a ago. big, young lad and a couple of On Wednesday, February 6, Mr people had him by the arms try- Scott’s budget plans were unani- mously approved by the Kent and ing to stop him from going over Medway Police and Crime Panel. the side of the bridge. They were As well as increasing officer gently talking to him. numbers, Kent Police’s 300 police “They or someone else eventu- community support officers have ally got him down and it made also again been protected. me think that there are people out Mr Scott told panel members at there in our community who the meeting in Maidstone: “Resi- need a bit of help. I felt sorry for dents want to see more police out the lad.” on the street and to pay for that I’m PCC Matthew Scott and Chief Constable Alan Pughsley British Transport Police were increasing the council tax by £2 a able to restrain the man and he month for an average band D warranted police constables next what incidents they are going to be was taken away. property. This has been supported year. going to, what challenges they by 60% of people across more than “That is in addition to replacing might be facing, or what dangers Museum fun 5,000 pieces of consultation feed- those who leave or retire, and en- they might be presented with. In- back.” ables us to retain the 270 additional creased demand pressures have YOUNGSTERS are being invited Adding that it was not a decision officers recruited since I was had an impact on them. to bring the past to life at half- taken lightly, the PCC said: “These elected in 2016.” “I believe this recruitment plan term by making Egyptian mum- plans are not just about asking for Mr Scott stressed it would be sends an important message – that mies and Roman helmets. more money. I’ve asked Kent Po- down to the Chief Constable to de- they are not alone. We understand School kids who sign up for lice to continue their drive to be as termine exactly how and where what they are going through and Maidstone Museum’s “Make It” efficient and effective as possible, these additional officers would be we want to see extra colleagues workshops will also be shown without putting frontline services deployed. working alongside them and sup- how to create volcanoes. at risk. They will make £9.7million But Mr Scott said 90 would go porting them.” There will be four sessions a of savings over the next year. into local policing roles and 90 into Kent Police Chief Constable Alan day, at 10.30am, noon, 1.30pm and “This, combined with the use of crime investigation teams, to tackle Pughsley said: “We have already 3pm on Tuesday, February 19. For reserves to continue the improve- issues like domestic abuse and sex- started to welcome our first intake more details, visit https://mu- ments we’ve seen in performance ual violence. of new officers, who were recruited seum.maidstone.gov.uk/ within the Force Control Room, He added: ‘They (officers and last year. Many of them have al- will enable the Chief Constable to staff) do tremendous work daily to ready started making a difference Ceilidh date look to recruit another 180 fully- keep us all safe. They don’t know in the communities they serve.” THE streets of Allington will echo with the lively tones of Gaelic folk when St Nicholas’s Church hosts Inspection praise for care firm a ceilidh on March 1. CARERS offering personal help their responsibility to protect infection and cross-contamina- Organisers promise “an in the home to the elderly, de- people from harm and abuse. tion. The inspector also noted evening of fun and dancing” to pendents and the disabled in The report noted: “Clients told that new staff sat an induction raise funds for the Poplar Grove Maidstone have earned praise us they felt safe with staff from course and then worked along- church’s Loos and Lights cam- from a Government inspector. MyLife Home Care Maidstone.” side experienced colleagues be- paign. The Care Quality Commission Potential risks were mitigated fore working alone. Tickets are £5 each or £15 for a visited MyLife Home Care on and contingency plans limited As well as having their as- family. For more details, contact the Ashford Road. It was provid- disruption to people’s care dur- sessed needs met, the CQC the parish office on 01622 299715. ing home help to 25 clients, in- ing emergency situations, such noted that clients also received cluding older adults, younger as bad weather. emotional support, adding: Mexican night disabled adults, children and Staff were employed on the “Staff knew people well and people with drug and alcohol is- basis that they were suitable to were aware of their likes, dis- PARISHIONERS in Barming set sues. work with people, and there was likes and personal histories. out to raise money for India by The CQC found good practices enough of them to fulfil people’s “People were treated with dig- hosting a Mexican night. in operation across the board. assessed care needs. nity, respect and their privacy They donned sombreros and The inspection team found a reg- Medicines were administered was maintained. Staff were kind, headed for St Margaret’s Church istered manager in place and by trained staff and steps taken caring and promoted people’s on January 27 to secure £450 in trained staff who understood to protect others from any risk of independence.” support of the Delhi Brotherhood.

28 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Bridge drama man rescued Extra police to hit the Police aacked A MAN who threatened to throw himself off a railway bridge in Maidstone sparked a major police whilst on duty response and a traffic diversion. streets, reveals PCC The 999 scramble came after he SIX people have been charged were spat at whilst dealing with a was spotted with his legs dan- over separate assaults against po- prisoner who was in custody at gling over the side of the crossing KENT Police plan to recruit 180 more officers in the coming year, using lice officers across west Kent. Maidstone police station. in Sittingbourne Road, at about funds raised by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott. The suspects were arrested in Matthew Gilbert (22), from Can- 11.20am on February 6. areas including Maidstone, West terbury, was remanded in custody Cars were diverted from the The PCC says the number of full- Malling and Sevenoaks under the charged with three counts of as- scene while Kent Police attended time officers in Kent will increase Assaults on Emergency Workers sault of an emergency worker. and handed the matter to British to 3,632, returning the force to 96% Act 2018. He was also charged with pos- Transport Police. of its peak strength from a decade The law came into force in No- sessing a knife in a public place An eye-witness said: “He was a ago. vember last year and created a new and an offence of violent behav- big, young lad and a couple of On Wednesday, February 6, Mr offence of assault against 999 serv- iour at a police station. He ap- ice workers, including police, para- people had him by the arms try- Scott’s budget plans were unani- peared before Medway Trucker ‘using laptop’ mously approved by the Kent and medics, nurses and other blue light ing to stop him from going over Magistrates’ Court on January 15. TWO drivers were fined after being the same offence. Medway Police and Crime Panel. workers. It also provides tougher the side of the bridge. They were Maidstone Chief Inspector Ray caught viewing their laptops while Both drivers were issued with a As well as increasing officer sentencing powers for judges. gently talking to him. Quiller said: “Every day, police are driving HGVs. £200 graduated fixed penalty no- numbers, Kent Police’s 300 police At about 6am on Sunday, Janu- “They or someone else eventu- required to attend unpredictable, At approximately 1.15pm on tice and six penalty points. community support officers have ary 13, officers were called to a challenging and sometimes volatile January 8, officers from Kent Po- Kent Police tweeted: “A HGV ally got him down and it made fight in Maidstone. When they also again been protected. situations. However, like any other lice’s Roads Policing Unit stopped driver who was not paying atten- me think that there are people out tried to intervene, one was said to Mr Scott told panel members at job, officers should not be subjected an HGV driver who was believed to tion and was unable to see clearly there in our community who have been hit in the face. the meeting in Maidstone: “Resi- to assaults whilst they are carrying be using a laptop computer whilst ahead was fined and had points need a bit of help. I felt sorry for Thomas Parnell (21), of Grove dents want to see more police out out their duties. driving coastbound on the M2, be- put on his licence after Kent Police the lad.” Lane, Hunton, was arrested and on the street and to pay for that I’m PCC Matthew Scott and Chief Constable Alan Pughsley “It is unacceptable, and those tween junctions 4 and 5, Gilling- Roads Policing Unit saw him using British Transport Police were charged with assaulting an emer- increasing the council tax by £2 a who we suspect are responsible for ham and Sittingbourne. a laptop while driving. able to restrain the man and he warranted police constables next what incidents they are going to be gency worker. He was bailed to ap- month for an average band D abusing and assaulting police offi- Shortly after, at approximately “Straight after dealing with him, was taken away. year. going to, what challenges they pear before Maidstone Magistrates’ property. This has been supported cers can expect to be charged with 1.50pm, another HGV driver was another lorry driver was caught “That is in addition to replacing might be facing, or what dangers Court on February 15. by 60% of people across more than an offence that can carry serious stopped in the same location for doing the same thing…” Museum fun 5,000 pieces of consultation feed- those who leave or retire, and en- they might be presented with. In- On the same day, three officers penalties.” back.” ables us to retain the 270 additional creased demand pressures have YOUNGSTERS are being invited Adding that it was not a decision officers recruited since I was had an impact on them. to bring the past to life at half- taken lightly, the PCC said: “These elected in 2016.” “I believe this recruitment plan term by making Egyptian mum- plans are not just about asking for Mr Scott stressed it would be sends an important message – that mies and Roman helmets. more money. I’ve asked Kent Po- down to the Chief Constable to de- they are not alone. We understand School kids who sign up for lice to continue their drive to be as termine exactly how and where what they are going through and Maidstone Museum’s “Make It” efficient and effective as possible, these additional officers would be we want to see extra colleagues workshops will also be shown without putting frontline services deployed. working alongside them and sup- how to create volcanoes. at risk. They will make £9.7million But Mr Scott said 90 would go porting them.” There will be four sessions a of savings over the next year. into local policing roles and 90 into Kent Police Chief Constable Alan day, at 10.30am, noon, 1.30pm and “This, combined with the use of crime investigation teams, to tackle Pughsley said: “We have already 3pm on Tuesday, February 19. For reserves to continue the improve- issues like domestic abuse and sex- started to welcome our first intake PROPERTY MAINTENANCE more details, visit https://mu- ments we’ve seen in performance ual violence. of new officers, who were recruited seum.maidstone.gov.uk/ within the Force Control Room, He added: ‘They (officers and last year. Many of them have al- will enable the Chief Constable to staff) do tremendous work daily to ready started making a difference Gutter Cleaning Service Ceilidh date look to recruit another 180 fully- keep us all safe. They don’t know in the communities they serve.” At Reasonable Rates THE streets of Allington will echo with the lively tones of Gaelic folk Guttering Fascias Soffits when St Nicholas’s Church hosts Inspection praise for care firm a ceilidh on March 1. CARERS offering personal help their responsibility to protect infection and cross-contamina- Replaced or Repaired Organisers promise “an in the home to the elderly, de- people from harm and abuse. tion. The inspector also noted evening of fun and dancing” to pendents and the disabled in The report noted: “Clients told that new staff sat an induction All Types Of Roof raise funds for the Poplar Grove Maidstone have earned praise us they felt safe with staff from course and then worked along- NLP church’s Loos and Lights cam- from a Government inspector. MyLife Home Care Maidstone.” side experienced colleagues be- Repairs Undertaken paign. The Care Quality Commission Potential risks were mitigated fore working alone. Tickets are £5 each or £15 for a visited MyLife Home Care on and contingency plans limited As well as having their as- New Roofs Flat Roofs family. For more details, contact the Ashford Road. It was provid- disruption to people’s care dur- sessed needs met, the CQC the parish office on 01622 299715. ing home help to 25 clients, in- ing emergency situations, such noted that clients also received Chimney Stacks Repointed cluding older adults, younger as bad weather. emotional support, adding: Mexican night disabled adults, children and Staff were employed on the “Staff knew people well and For A Free Friendly Quote Or Advice people with drug and alcohol is- basis that they were suitable to were aware of their likes, dis- PARISHIONERS in Barming set sues. work with people, and there was likes and personal histories. Please Call : out to raise money for India by The CQC found good practices enough of them to fulfil people’s “People were treated with dig- hosting a Mexican night. in operation across the board. assessed care needs. nity, respect and their privacy They donned sombreros and The inspection team found a reg- Medicines were administered was maintained. Staff were kind, headed for St Margaret’s Church istered manager in place and by trained staff and steps taken caring and promoted people’s 01622 840062 07546 815764 on January 27 to secure £450 in trained staff who understood to protect others from any risk of independence.” support of the Delhi Brotherhood. [email protected]

Maidstone March 2019 29 News downsmail.co.uk School access plan ‘bombshell’ PLANNERS behind two new schools on the Kent Medical Campus near the M20 have delivered a “bombshell”, by proposing a pedestrian entrance on the often-gridlocked Bearsted Road. The Department for Education and its builders are likely to sub- mit an amended application, pos- sibly with a new access road inside the KMC site. This should have satisfied the opponents to the road en- trance/exit in Bearsted Road, who claimed it is too dangerous for children and would cause serious congestion on an already busy highway. But local representatives were told to their astonishmentat a KMC site meeting on January 25 that a pedestrian access point would be made in Bearsted Road The packed room at the Grove instead. Green meeting to discuss the plan Cllr Bob Hinder told Boxley for schools on the KMC site and Parish Council on January 28 that right, MP Helen Whately with the news was a “bombshell”, and Fiona Bruce on BBC Question Time he had made it clear that it will cause obstruction by parents of pri- KMC site, said: “We have seen at mary age children (years four, five Roseacre Primary that parents do and six) who do not have to be de- not heed double yellows or zig livered to the classroom door. zags and often park on corners They will simply use the pedes- and places they shouldn’t. trian access as a drop-off and “The pedestrian access will sim- pick-up point, he argued. ply be used as a place to drop He was told by the schools’ del- children off, but there would be egation the access would have even bigger problems when it is double yellow lines, which would used as a pick-up zone. have to be enforced by Maidstone “But it is certianly an interest- Borough Council. ing concession by the applicants, He told members: “That caused who said that they couldn't find much merriment from (fellow an access via the KMC site.” Helen Whately MP, who ap- lic meeting in Grove on January borough councillor) Val Springett The primary and special peared with Fiona Bruce on 24. and myself.” schools will be run by the Leigh BBC1’s Question Time from Lin- However, no mention was Canon John Corbyn, the vicar at Academies' Trust, which has 23 coln on January 31, broke the made at that stage of the appli- Bearsted who has consistently other schools in its business port- news of the new access being cants’ intention to place the pedes- doubted the suitability of the folio. found inside the KMC site at pub- trian access in Bearsted Road. ‘Site is not where need is’ AT THE public meeting organised by Boxley Parish Council on Janu- Plot ‘vital’ for wildlife ary 24 in Grove Green, several contributors who work in local educa- FOR the DfE application to be to have a special needs school if tion disputed the need for a school, especially one without its own successful, Pope’s Field would the students have to travel from community surrounding it. have to lose its nature reserve as far afield as Canterbury or Dan Smith, head teacher at St John’s Primary in status. Ashford by taxi. Grove Green – rated outstanding by Ofsted – said: Residents said the plot was Even if an access was to be “There is a need for a school, but not there. The site necessary for the migratory created at KMC, it would in- is wrong because it is not where the need is.” habits of wildlife, particularly crease the distance for pupils to It is recognised there are shortages of primary as it is the link between the walk along Bearsted Road, places in areas such as Bearsted, Vinters, Chiltern North Downs and Vinters Val- which many feel is already dan- Hundreds and Detling. ley. gerous and too congested. The Cllr Vic Davies told the Janu- safety of the footpaths and ary 24 meeting: “If you take it multiple crossing points re- ‘This site or no school at all’ away, you will lose that main a major concern to locals. wildlife corridor.” The meeting of Boxley Parish MELANIE Burnham, spokesman landowners and other parties, in- Concerns were again raised Council’s environment com- for the DfE, said no final decisions cluding Kent Highways, to resolve about the lack of parking mittee in Grove Green commu- had been made about the amended outstanding problems. spaces for parents dropping off nity centre was attended by 180 plan and no submissions had been “It is not a fait accompli,” she and picking up children at the members of the public, with made (at the time of going to said. “We have tried very hard to new schools, particularly dozens turned away at the door. press). find a suitable site, but there are younger primary pupils. The committee voted unani- She added that negotiations none available. It may be that it is a Others questioned the desire mously to reject the proposals. were still ongoing with the case of this site or no school at all.”

30 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News School access plan ‘bombshell’ Reprieve for town’s HMV store PLANNERS behind two new schools on the Kent Medical Campus near the M20 have delivered A MAIDSTONE store has been saved from closure by a Canadian music giant. a “bombshell”, by proposing a pedestrian entrance on the often-gridlocked Bearsted Road. Staff at HMV in Fremlin Walk HMV went into administration Mr Putman, however, believes The Department for Education have been told their jobs are safe in December for the second time there is still a place for high street and its builders are likely to sub- after Sunrise Records launched a in six years. music retail. mit an amended application, pos- multi-million pound bail-out of Hilco, the company behind the He told the BBC: “It is very sibly with a new access road the collapsed retail chain. first bail-out in 2013, cited a clear that the customer wants inside the KMC site. The county town’s branch is “tsunami” of retail problems for more selection on vinyl, more This should have satisfied the one of 100 plucked from adminis- the latest collapse, including busi- depth of catalogue. There’s no opponents to the road en- tration, in a move that has se- ment business in the UK”. ness rate levels and competition doubt that online is a big part of trance/exit in Bearsted Road, who cured 1,487 jobs nationally. He said that he had wanted to online. overall retail sales, but people like claimed it is too dangerous for But stores in Bluewater and save the entire business, but HMV sold 31% of all physical to come into a store, have an ex- children and would cause serious Tunbridge Wells are among 27 added: “You can only lose so music in the UK in 2018, worth perience, talk with someone who congestion on an already busy earmarked for closure, with 455 much money on those stores be- around £118.8m. It accounted for understands music, loves music, highway. redundancies. A further 122 ware- fore you need to make a change." 23% of all DVD sales, and its mar- loves video and entertainment.” But local representatives were house jobs are also expected to go The rescue package he an- ket share had been growing. But He added that Sunrise Records’ told to their astonishmentat a in the coming weeks. nounced, after previously acquir- the overall physical music mar- decision on which HMV stores to KMC site meeting on January 25 Sunrise’s chief executive Doug ing HMV’s Canadian operations, ket, say industry experts, is close had been based on the lev- that a pedestrian access point Putman described HMV as “the ended weeks of uncertainty for shrinking and is expected to fall els of “profitability and landlord would be made in Bearsted Road The packed room at the Grove most iconic music and entertain- Maidstone staff. by a further 17% this year. support”. instead. Green meeting to discuss the plan Cllr Bob Hinder told Boxley for schools on the KMC site and Parish Council on January 28 that right, MP Helen Whately with Jobless man’s the news was a “bombshell”, and Fiona Bruce on BBC Question Time he had made it clear that it will Park’s beauty caught on film cause obstruction by parents of pri- KMC site, said: “We have seen at £200 tile fine mary age children (years four, five Roseacre Primary that parents do A JOBLESS man punched and PHOTOGRAPHS of Maidstone’s and six) who do not have to be de- not heed double yellows or zig broke a metal tile in a police station much-loved Mote Park go on display livered to the classroom door. zags and often park on corners after spending a night in a sound- at the town’s museum this month. They will simply use the pedes- and places they shouldn’t. proof room, a court heard. The exhibition includes large trian access as a drop-off and “The pedestrian access will sim- Jason Barnes (45), of King Street, prints entered over the last six years pick-up point, he argued. ply be used as a place to drop appeared at Maidstone Magis- in the popular photo competition He was told by the schools’ del- children off, but there would be trates Court for criminal damage that uses the park as its focus. egation the access would have even bigger problems when it is charges after bending a tile in an in- “Moments from Mote Park” runs double yellow lines, which would used as a pick-up zone. terview room wall. from February 6 to March 2, in the have to be enforced by Maidstone “But it is certianly an interest- Julie Farvarce, prosecuting, said Café Gallery at Maidstone Museum. Borough Council. ing concession by the applicants, Barnes had been brought into Alan Frith, Mote Park’s manager, He told members: “That caused who said that they couldn't find Maidstone police station on January said: “It’s a beautiful site that much merriment from (fellow an access via the KMC site.” Helen Whately MP, who ap- lic meeting in Grove on January 3 for a different alleged offence. changes with each season.” borough councillor) Val Springett The primary and special peared with Fiona Bruce on 24. However, due to overcrowding The competition, which started in 2013, opens for entries this year and myself.” schools will be run by the Leigh BBC1’s Question Time from Lin- However, no mention was in the station, he had to stay from March 1-August 31. Canon John Corbyn, the vicar at Academies' Trust, which has 23 coln on January 31, broke the made at that stage of the appli- overnight, where he punched a tile The categories are: Landscapes, Bearsted who has consistently other schools in its business port- news of the new access being cants’ intention to place the pedes- in the wall out of anger. Seasons and Wildlife. Photos can be doubted the suitability of the folio. found inside the KMC site at pub- trian access in Bearsted Road. Police discovered the broken tile taken at any time of year within with Barnes’ blood on the wall. The A picture by previous competition winner Roger Wilkins Mote Park. court heard that the wall would ‘Site is not where need is’ have to be deep-cleaned and fixed AT THE public meeting organised by Boxley Parish Council on Janu- Plot ‘vital’ for wildlife as a result. ary 24 in Grove Green, several contributors who work in local educa- FOR the DfE application to be to have a special needs school if The court heard Barnes had a tion disputed the need for a school, especially one without its own successful, Pope’s Field would the students have to travel from “lengthy” list of convictions, in- Car damaged after club row community surrounding it. have to lose its nature reserve as far afield as Canterbury or cluding thefts and shoplifting. Dan Smith, head teacher at St John’s Primary in status. Ashford by taxi. John Connor, defending, said: A DRUNK man smashed a car the bouncers.” that resulted in his actions, and Grove Green – rated outstanding by Ofsted – said: Residents said the plot was Even if an access was to be “Barnes was arrested near Maid- mirror after being thrown out of Ferarrio was arrested after that was the reason he acted the “There is a need for a school, but not there. The site necessary for the migratory created at KMC, it would in- stone railway station with a war- a nightclub in Maidstone, a court causing damage estimated at ap- way he did. is wrong because it is not where the need is.” habits of wildlife, particularly crease the distance for pupils to rant for an unrelated offence. He heard. proximately £100 to the car. “He is not a great drinker, and It is recognised there are shortages of primary as it is the link between the walk along Bearsted Road, was very frustrated when police Nathaniel Ferarrio (20) was at Hugh Roberts, defending, told kicked out in frustration.” places in areas such as Bearsted, Vinters, Chiltern North Downs and Vinters Val- which many feel is already dan- told him he would have to be kept Bierkeller on New Year’s Eve, on the court that there was a reason Ferarrio left college a year ago Hundreds and Detling. ley. gerous and too congested. The overnight, due to the station being a drunken night out with a that sparked the incident. and now is a roofer and labourer. Cllr Vic Davies told the Janu- safety of the footpaths and overcrowded. group of friends. The court heard Ferarrio’s Chairman of the bench, Jean ary 24 meeting: “If you take it multiple crossing points re- “Barnes then vented his frustra- Prosecuting, James Nichols group of friends started arguing Sanderson, said: “You are here ‘This site or no school at all’ away, you will lose that main a major concern to locals. tion at the situation by punching told Maidstone Magistrates with others from inside the club, on a criminal damage offence wildlife corridor.” The meeting of Boxley Parish the wall and denting the tile.” Court: “At about 2am, Mr Ferar- and he felt he had to go in and and being drunk and disorderly MELANIE Burnham, spokesman landowners and other parties, in- Concerns were again raised Council’s environment com- Barnes admitted the offence and rio was removed from Bierkeller help. in a public place. for the DfE, said no final decisions cluding Kent Highways, to resolve about the lack of parking mittee in Grove Green commu- was fined £200 for the damage. He and ultimately kicked the wing Mr Roberts said: “He recalls “Sadly things happen on New had been made about the amended outstanding problems. spaces for parents dropping off nity centre was attended by 180 joked to the court that he had just mirror on a Ford Fiesta parked in being picked up by the arms and Year’s that don’t happen on any plan and no submissions had been “It is not a fait accompli,” she and picking up children at the members of the public, with got his court fines down to £20. the road. legs by the door staff, and being other day of the year.” made (at the time of going to said. “We have tried very hard to new schools, particularly dozens turned away at the door. Chairman of the bench Nigel “The door staff then followed physically ejected from the club He was given a 12-month con- press). find a suitable site, but there are younger primary pupils. The committee voted unani- Cox said: “You had better stop of- him as he left, with Ferarrio onto Bank Street. ditional discharge and ordered She added that negotiations none available. It may be that it is a Others questioned the desire mously to reject the proposals. fending, then.” shouting abusive language at “It was his state of intoxication to pay a £265 fine. were still ongoing with the case of this site or no school at all.”

Maidstone March 2019 31 News downsmail.co.uk Jail for thugs in threat to kill TWO thugs who broke into a Maidstone home and threatened to kill one of the occupants after a row on social media have been sent to prison Jason Fergus and Terry Dampier went on to damage to an internal were jailed for four years following door. a burglary at a flat in Alexandra Appearing before Maidstone Street. Crown Court, Fergus pleaded Maidstone Crown Court heard guilty to burglary with intent to police were called to the address commit grievous bodily harm, as on December 12, 2017, to reports well as further charges of assault that a rock had been used to smash and criminal damage. On Monday, a window. The victim and his part- January 28, he was sentenced to ner were inside, and one was cov- two years and 14 weeks in prison. ered in glass. Dampier (29), of York Road, Fergus, who knew the target, Maidstone also pleaded guilty to and Dampier had then entered burglary with intent to commit through the front door. grievous bodily harm. He was sen- A pint glass was thrown which tenced to two years. narrowly missed the victim and a Leading the investigation, Detec- television was kicked in by tive Sergeant Jo Hazelwood said: Dampier. “Fergus and Dampier entered this Both men shouted threats and Jason Fergus Terry Dampier property with the sole intention of tried to assault the victim, forcing carrying out a violent assault. him to escape through an open gus admitted responsibility. threats. On December 9, 2017, he “Whilst their actions have thank- window to safety. He claimed he had been owed entered the same flat whilst the vic- fully not led to any serious injuries, Within weeks the suspects were money by the victim and that an tim and his partner were asleep. these men will have undoubtedly arrested. Forensic tests at the crime argument had escalated over text The victim reported being caused considerable alarm and dis- scene identified one of Dampier’s messages and on social media. woken by Fergus shouting and tress, not only to the victim and his fingerprints on the broken glass Fergus (25), of Barnhurst Road, standing at the end of the bed, partner, but to neighbours and and during police interview, Fer- Maidstone also admitted previous wearing a knuckle duster. Fergus other residents.” Leeds Castle to stage ‘silent’ firework shows LEEDS Castle has announced it is introducing noiseless fireworks, following complaints from neigh- bours last year. Chief executive Sir David Steel said the castle’s pyrotechnical team will stage silent displays at its events from this year. The move fol- lows complaints from villagers in Hollingbourne, who claimed they could feel their houses shaking from the effect of the rockets, leav- Gang show crew go behind scenes ing children and pets distressed. SCOUTS from across Maidstone extra direction, a tour of the build- be presenting some of the most A spokesman for Leeds Castle took their cue at the town’s Hazlitt ing and to learn how the magic is memorable Gang Show melodies, a said: “Following feedback from Theatre to learn about entertaining. created using sound and lighting, mix of modern songs, dance rou- residents due to the increased One hundred Scouts and leaders they were quick to enter stage right! tines, comedy and sketches at the number of private events, Leeds are in rehearsals for The 50th Maid- The Maidstone Scout Gang Show Hazlitt from April 9-13. Castle has taken the decision to stone Scout Gang Show at the Earl can trace its roots back to the 1960s Tickets are available from the box allow only ‘quiet fireworks’ at Street theatre in April. So when they and this year, in an anniversary trib- office, by calling 01622 758611, or events, including weddings on the were offered the chance of some ute, Scouts from across the town will at www.hazlitttheatre.com. estate. “This will apply to all new book- ings taken from January 2019.” The noise was said to have had Man accused of taking ‘inappropriate photos’ an impact on people living as far A MAN was arrested after re- A spokesman said: “Kent Po- inappropriate images on a mo- away as Pilgrims Way. A resident ports that he was taking inap- lice were called at around bile phone of a passenger on the there complained directly to Maid- propriate pictures of a passenger 8.30am on February 6 to an inci- bus. It is further alleged the sus- stone Borough Council in Novem- on a bus. dent reported to have taken pect assaulted the bus driver. ber 2018 and was told the noise did A 61-year-old man remains in place on a bus in King Street, “Officers attended and a 61- not have the “sufficient duration custody after officers were called Maidstone. year-old man was arrested. He or frequency to meet the criteria to an incident in Kings Street. “It is alleged a man had taken remains in custody.” of a statutory nuisance”.

32 Maidstone March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Jail for thugs in threat to kill Call for the TWO thugs who broke into a Maidstone home and threatened to kill one of the occupants after a row on social media have been sent to prison Jason Fergus and Terry Dampier went on to damage to an internal were jailed for four years following door. a burglary at a flat in Alexandra Appearing before Maidstone Street. Crown Court, Fergus pleaded Maidstone Crown Court heard guilty to burglary with intent to police were called to the address commit grievous bodily harm, as TREE & on December 12, 2017, to reports well as further charges of assault BDL Gas Services that a rock had been used to smash and criminal damage. On Monday, H.S. GARDEN A family Run Business a window. The victim and his part- January 28, he was sentenced to Email: [email protected] ner were inside, and one was cov- two years and 14 weeks in prison. SERVICES Twitter: @BDLGas ered in glass. Dampier (29), of York Road, Fergus, who knew the target, Maidstone also pleaded guilty to ALL TYPES OF TREES and Dampier had then entered burglary with intent to commit • Gas and Electric fires • Central heating systems through the front door. grievous bodily harm. He was sen- Topped • Shaped • Trimmed • Stone, Marble, Granite and installed A pint glass was thrown which tenced to two years. Fruit Trees Pruned & Shaped Wood Fireplaces • Boiler Breakdowns narrowly missed the victim and a Leading the investigation, Detec- Shrub Pruning • Fully Bespoke Installation • Service and Repair Gas television was kicked in by tive Sergeant Jo Hazelwood said: Hedges Trimmed & Reduced service appliances Dampier. “Fergus and Dampier entered this Unwanted Trees, Hedges & Stumps Removed • Free surveys • Landlord Certificates Both men shouted threats and Jason Fergus Terry Dampier property with the sole intention of tried to assault the victim, forcing carrying out a violent assault. ALL GARDEN WORK UNDERTAKEN him to escape through an open gus admitted responsibility. threats. On December 9, 2017, he “Whilst their actions have thank- window to safety. He claimed he had been owed entered the same flat whilst the vic- fully not led to any serious injuries, Mowing & Strimming Within weeks the suspects were money by the victim and that an tim and his partner were asleep. these men will have undoubtedly Borders Weeded & Cultivated arrested. Forensic tests at the crime argument had escalated over text The victim reported being caused considerable alarm and dis- All Year Round Tidy Ups scene identified one of Dampier’s messages and on social media. woken by Fergus shouting and tress, not only to the victim and his Overgrown Gardend Cleared fingerprints on the broken glass Fergus (25), of Barnhurst Road, standing at the end of the bed, partner, but to neighbours and and during police interview, Fer- Maidstone also admitted previous wearing a knuckle duster. Fergus other residents.” New Fencing & Repairs Driveway & Patio Cleaning No Job Too Small - Free Quotes & Advice Leeds Castle to Showroom: 9 High Street Rainham Kent ME8 7HX stage ‘silent’ 01622 808851 • 07470719332 01634 232048 firework shows [email protected] www.BDLGasServices.co.uk LEEDS Castle has announced it is introducing noiseless fireworks, following complaints from neigh- Monumental bours last year. RICHARDS ROOFING & Chief executive Sir David Steel Stonemasons said the castle’s pyrotechnical BUILDING SERVICES LTD team will stage silent displays at its Est. 1973 events from this year. The move fol- Lead Work and Tiling Specialists lows complaints from villagers in NAMM, BRAMM & NAMLC Registered Hollingbourne, who claimed they New tiled roofs, repairs & replacements could feel their houses shaking New Memorials Tablets, Plaques & Vases Slate and lead roofs & repairs from the effect of the rockets, leav- Gang show crew go behind scenes ing children and pets distressed. SCOUTS from across Maidstone extra direction, a tour of the build- be presenting some of the most Cleaning, Renovation & Restoration , PVCu guttering, fascias & soffits A spokesman for Leeds Castle took their cue at the town’s Hazlitt ing and to learn how the magic is memorable Gang Show melodies, a Cladding & bargeboards said: “Following feedback from Theatre to learn about entertaining. created using sound and lighting, mix of modern songs, dance rou- Safety Inspections, Memorial Insurance residents due to the increased One hundred Scouts and leaders they were quick to enter stage right! tines, comedy and sketches at the Repointing & chimney repairs number of private events, Leeds are in rehearsals for The 50th Maid- The Maidstone Scout Gang Show Hazlitt from April 9-13. Arranged, Free Brochures Brickwork and carpentry Castle has taken the decision to stone Scout Gang Show at the Earl can trace its roots back to the 1960s Tickets are available from the box allow only ‘quiet fireworks’ at Street theatre in April. So when they and this year, in an anniversary trib- office, by calling 01622 758611, or Plastering and decoration events, including weddings on the were offered the chance of some ute, Scouts from across the town will at www.hazlitttheatre.com. Telephone 01622 762482 Loft, cellar & garage conversions estate. “This will apply to all new book- Design support & advice ings taken from January 2019.” Qualified plumbers, electricians & heating engineers The noise was said to have had Man accused of taking ‘inappropriate photos’ 01233 636500 an impact on people living as far A MAN was arrested after re- A spokesman said: “Kent Po- inappropriate images on a mo- 01795 436178 Tel: (01622) 734377 away as Pilgrims Way. A resident ports that he was taking inap- lice were called at around bile phone of a passenger on the there complained directly to Maid- propriate pictures of a passenger 8.30am on February 6 to an inci- bus. It is further alleged the sus- 2 Sutton Road Maidstone Kent ME15 9AH Direct: 07885 241666 stone Borough Council in Novem- on a bus. dent reported to have taken pect assaulted the bus driver. ber 2018 and was told the noise did A 61-year-old man remains in place on a bus in King Street, “Officers attended and a 61- 68 Kent Avenue Ashford Kent TN24 8NQ www.richardsroofing.co.uk not have the “sufficient duration custody after officers were called Maidstone. year-old man was arrested. He Howt Green Bobbing Sittingbourne Kent ME9 8QP or frequency to meet the criteria to an incident in Kings Street. “It is alleged a man had taken remains in custody.” email: [email protected] of a statutory nuisance”.

Maidstone March 2019 33 downsmail.co.uk

O b i t u a r e s Frank Brake he went on to work Eve, at Cornford House Nursing Home in in local driving jobs Pembury, with her husband by her side. FRANK Brake (85) who died at the including delivering Brian describes Rosemary as “always Pilgrim’s Hospice on his 85th birthday caravans for Davey’s kind, caring and considerate”. was the last surviving brother of the Brake of Harrietsham, As well as her husband, she is survived Brothers food distribution company, lorry driving for by her daughters and grandchildren established with his brothers William and Blue Cap Foods of James, Julie¡e, Ellie and Charlo¡e. Peter in 1958. Di¡on and as an The company, instructor for the established to supply Vern School of Leon Moodley poultry to caterers, Motoring in LEON Moodley (70) who has died in became incorporated Maidstone before se¡ing up his own Edinburgh was born in Cape Town SA, in 1961. It became school of motoring. but brought up locally. involved in Roy was married for 69 years to May The eldest of six children, he a¡ended distributing frozen and was father to Ivan and Christopher. St Francis School foods in the 1960s Son Ivan said; “My father loved bowling and Maidstone and – after a with South Park Bowling Club, and loved Technical School for floatation on the making others happy. He had a light- Boys before Stock Exchange in hearted quality that allowed him to get on a¡ending Maidstone the mid-80s – acquired other local with anyone. He even managed to College of Art and companies before the brothers sold their converse with my next door neighbour in Walthamstow share of the company in 2002. France despite neither of them speaking College of Art. By this time Peter Brake had died and the other’s language. He was devoted to He played for William’s health problems had left Frank his family. He lived in Madginford for 20 Maidstone United taking most of the business management years and in Detling before that.” boys football team responsibility. The company and Brake Roy leaves his wife and son Ivan (son and had a trial for Charlton Athletic FC. name continue in operation to the present Christopher pre-deceased him). He also Leon left the local area to follow a day. An obituary in The Grocer described leaves grandsons Ma¡hew and Daniel and creative and craft-based career, spending Frank as “a titan of the foodservice four great-grandchildren. many years as a maker of bespoke industry”. metalwork. La¡erly, he had his own Frank married Evelyn in 1959 and was kitchen and bathroom design company. father to Michelle, Phillip and Richard. A Rosemary Curtis Leon was father to Lorraine and twins, tribute site to Frank noted his ROSEMARY Curtis (75) was born in Luke and Jerome. Leon’s sister Angela philanthropy and involvement in local life, Pembury in 1943. She lived much of her said: “My brother was gentle and stating: “In his personal life, Frank made childhood in Kent considerate, a compassionate person and significant contribution to charities. Major and Wales, and also a talented artist who had real skill involvements included project leadership moved to Maidstone with pencil drawing. He had a lifelong and matched funding for the building of in 1966 with love of the music of Leonard Cohen and the Kent Multiple Sclerosis Therapy husband Brian. followed Manchester United.” Centre, significant contributions to They were happily Leon leaves his children and Parkinson’s UK and Cure Parkinson’s, married for 53 years granddaughters Julia and Emma. Ashford Pilgrim’s Hospice, and many and had daughters smaller local charities in Kent, where Melanie and Frank lived for well over 50 years, and Caroline, and four Chris Tunbridge where he remained very well known and grandchildren. TRIBUTES have been paid to motorcycle deeply involved in local life.” Caroline said: “Working with children mechanic Chris Tunbridge of Eyehorne Frank leaves his wife, five grandchildren gave my mother great pleasure. After a Street, Hollingbourne, after an inquest and one great-grandchild. short spell teaching, she began a 25 year into his death. career at St Luke’s Playgroup in Foley Chris died in November, but a recent Street. Many of the people she met there inquest brought Roy Town became her closest friends.” tributes praising him ROY Town (90) of Madginford lived Rosemary was diagnosed three years as a “great, funny locally all his life apart from national ago with dementia, but continued to guy.” service driving lorries in Germany. Born enjoy holidays and days out with Brian. Chris ran CT the fifth of a family of six children in Leeds She passed away peacefully on Christmas Motorcycle Services on Willow Industrial Estate, Tyland Lane, Maidstone, specialising in the Camrass Wills customising of bikes Advice you can trust and restoration work. He had had a passion for motorbikes since his teenage Do you need help with probate? years. He was well-known for taking his dog Do you want to buy a funeral plan? Meg to work with him. Chris’s packed funeral in December • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed was helped by an online collection – DipPFS MSWW organised by friends and fellow motorcycle enthusiasts – which raised 01622 720985 £3,500 towards his funeral costs. www.camrasswills.co.uk He leaves his long-term partner Karen Marie Rendle.

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

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P Bins Cllr Doe had received a complaint firework display. It was agreed that the

a r i s h Barming about the bins by the river as they were deputy clerk would write to the Parish field One of the companies did not regularly overflowing. The clerk would manufacturers with a le�er of complaint. reply with a quotation for the new contact MBC and ask for a larger bin. Cllr Grigg would send out a plea to all

C equipment so the clerk had approached a Allotments There had been a complaint residents to clear their li�er. o u n c i l s fourth company and was awaiting plans. about vacant plots which seemed to be left Speeding There had been a complaint about The clerk suggested an extra meeting was wild. The clerk would find out how many speeding along Lancet Lane and Anglesey held to look at the plans to save time at the plots were vacant and Cllr Doe would visit Avenue, and a request for help from next council meeting and this was agreed. the plots and report back. Speedwatch. It was agreed that Cllr Rigby The Heave It was agreed that an excellent Access Cllr Vizzard noted concerns about would apply for an observation location. An job had been completed on The Heave, car access on Broomshaw Road to the Pea Field. appeal for volunteers had gone out in the park and field entrance. The clerk confirmed Developers had confirmed that this would newsle�er. The deputy clerk would write to that the final payment had been sent to the be for emergency access only. There had the school to advise of the complaint and contractor. been objections to the access from respond to the complainant. Non-domestic rates The clerk reported that Fullingpits Avenue onto Hermitage Lane but Neighbourhood plan The examiner felt the both she and the chairman had been Highways did not see it as an issue. document met all the requirements to be a approached on several occasions by a Rotary Club The club wanted permission to bona fide submission. MBC felt more detail company offering to arrange a refund from plant 1,000 crocus bulbs along the Tonbridge was needed. The examiner would make a the non-domestic rates, but for a charge. Cllr Road on the parish-owned land, as they had site visit to Loose. Gooch inquired about a potential refund done last year. This was agreed. SMART There was no further detail on the with MBC and £4,234 was refunded into the Roll of honour Cllr Manser said she would proposed 20mph zones. Lighting columns parish council account for 2012-2018. be happy to clean the roll of honour but it However, the investigation brought up that would be replaced in Loose Road. There was would need a step ladder. Cllr Doe offered no update on the gyratory system. Plans for the parish council should probably have to help and provide a ladder. It was been paying rates on the pavilion. The Wheatsheaf junction were pending. suggested that this task was combined with Brooks Field shed The new shed had been refund would be kept to one side until this the annual walk to check the trees. was resolved. approved by MBC but it was likely that Pavilion The outside drain from the pavilion Maintenance Cllr Manser asked the clerk to nothing would happen until May at the kitchen sink had been unblocked by a local arrange the cleandown of the pavilion and earliest. It was agreed to go with the decision company. They would be installing an informed members that one of the external of the Loose Amenities’ Association. external leaf cover and a sink waste trap to slats on the pavilion was still loose. It was Parking A resident had complained about the kitchen sink. not causing an issue so it was felt it could be parking at the top of Old Loose Hill. It was Storage container The clerk had contacted left until other jobs needed carrying out. agreed that the deputy clerk would respond. Mucky Munchkins to say they were Information board The clerk went to check Annual meeting It was agreed to hold the welcome to look for a metal storage solution out the board at the bridge. The frame had annual parish meeting on April 24. for the group, as BYFC had now installed ro�ed and the bo�om of the post was Precept The report by the Responsible their additional container. slightly damaged so it was suggested a Finance Officer was discussed and an Crime report There had been a spate of carpenter was contacted to quote for repair. increase of 12.5% was suggested. This burglaries in the Barming area. PCSO Pay Cllr Doe offered to get a quote. represented an increase of £7.83 per year for said jewellery was being targeted, Future projects Cllr Gooch’s suggestions for a band D household. This was agreed. particularly Asian gold. future projects included replacement Coffee mornings Leaflets about the windows to the rear of the parish hall, as community coffee mornings had been well as a replacement kitchen and flooring, delivered to about 90% of the parish. The flooring in the toilets and a kitchen at the Loose deputy clerk had received details of a small pavilion. She also suggested railings at the Borough report Cllr Sue Grigg had met the grant application and it was agreed she parish hall and planters. Cllr Manser wanted contractors and advised that a new call for should apply for this to obtain further to see a village clock installed in the parish. sites was in the offing. The future of the Park resources and equipment. Hermitage Quarry It was highlighted that a and Ride was pending and another meeting Bus shelter Cllr Rigby advised that seats swathe of trees had been taken out that was due soon. Funding had been offered to could not be installed in the bus shelter at should not have been. Gallaghers apologised the Scouts for disabled access to the the top of Old Loose Hill due to restrictions and said it would not happen again. assembly rooms. in the width of the pavement. Phone box The BT phone kiosk at the Li�er A complaint had been received about Sewage A leak from an allotment down Old bo�om of North Street had been removed. li�er on the village green from a recent Loose Hill had now been repaired.

THIEVES entered a storage garage in C r i m e Willington Street, Shepway, via the roof. Beer and food were stolen and consumed on Neighbourhood Watch the premises A black bag and garden gnome Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police were left behind. r

e p o r t s A house was broken into and car keys were taken in Riverhead Close, Allington. They outside a restaurant in Week Street. Plains Avenue, Shepway. He returned it and were used to steal a silver BMW 520D, An unoccupied flat broken into via small left when challenged by the resident. YL14***. front window in Quarry Square. A gold-coloured ornament was stolen A house was broken into and jewellery A Vauxhall Astra parked in St Luke’s from outside a house in Beaconsfield Road, was stolen in Lower Fant Road, Fant. Road was entered and items were stolen. Tovil. A house was broken into by three people A house was broken into and searched in A house was broken into and jewellery in Bedgebury Close. They were disturbed Twyford Court. Nothing appears to have was stolen in Beverley Road. by the residents and ran off. been taken. The wiper of a vehicle parked in the road A Volvo parked in the road in The The rear number plate was stolen from a was damaged in Allen Street. Broadway, Fant, was broken into and tools Ford Fiesta in Langton Close. A shed at a house was broken into in were stolen. A house was broken into and jewellery Jordan Close, Park Wood. Golf equipment A rear passenger side window of a vehicle was stolen in Edmett Way, Park Wood. and gardening tools were stolen. was smashed in Terminus Road, Fant. A house was broken into in Wallis A house was broken into in Tonbridge A pub was broken into in Penenden Avenue, Park Wood. Money and a watch Road. Jewellery, golf equipment and car Heath Road. The intruders were disturbed were stolen. keys were taken. The cars were stolen using by an alarm being activated and left. A man was seen taking a bike from the keys. A Jaguar was recovered but a A Giant mountain bike was stolen from outside a house and putting it into a truck in white VW Golf, GN14***, is still missing.

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Electricians Fencing Garden Services continued Freephone 0800 6942024 Plumbing & Tiling HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East Bathroom Installation Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate CARPET & Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 & refurbishment, UPHOLSTERY Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 DAVID COX Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 CLEANING Upholstery Mobile: 07701024078 3 piece suite £84 £42 Home: 01622 730960 OFFER 50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 Discount E: [email protected] No hidden extras - All Curtains prices inclusive of VAT Full length £74 £37 Half Length £42 £21 # FREE ESTIMATES # EPIC NO JOB TOO Fence me in & alot more LANDSCAPES BIG OR SMALL All types of Fencing & Gates Installed & Repairs • Fencing • Treework • Turfing • Decking• Levelling Ground All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, • Patios • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf • Water Features Decking, Patios, Paths & Paving. Regular Contracts, Lawn Mowing, Hedge Cutting etc. • Clearance • Driveways Call Colin on 07521 377306 Call us for free estimates and advice For a free site survey call: 01622 527106 07788 532926 or 01622 853978 PatiosDav Drivesid

Decks Pergolas P Wright Collectionrompt Sleeper walls 01233 840624 D.T Company [email protected] Fast FencingDirec tGatesor Delivery SKIP HIRE G Blocked drain clearance G CCTV drain & sewer surveys The largest Over 20 Years Experience 01622 G Drain & sewer cleaning G Cesspool & septic tank services T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 independently owned & 12 Yard Bins G Tankering including ADR (hazchem) Prices from £110+VAT 842337 liquid waste T Covering Maidstone management G Pollution & flooding solutions 01622 843511 & The Weald company in the UK G Waste disposal & recycling T EA Registered 01233 623721 T Fast & Prompt Service www.mtscleansing.co.uk Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, T Commercial wrightsfencing.co.uk West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ & Domestic Paynes lane, Loose. Established since 1996 Garage Door Free Quotation Garden Services Handyman GDS Specialists Site Survey • Kent based business and specialize in the • At GDS we offer a range of designs, colours and Installation, supply and repair of garage doors accessories to personalise your garage door. across the South East of England. • Not only do we supply and install garage doors, • Years of experience in the garage door industry we can also repair any door from any and we are proud to have received many glowing manufacturer to a top standard. customer recommendations for us. 6pm 24 01634 786129onwards 07540 224938 hour www.garagedoorspecialistskent.co.uk [email protected]

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Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery Rebecca Abbott Telesales Manager 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 Property maintenance Pest Control ApplianceHome Impro Repairsvements and Carpenters Supplies Ltd Kitchens / Bedrooms/ Bathrooms / ALL KDOMESTICarndean Floori APPLIANCEng (supply / supply Find your local REPAIRand insta SERVICEll / install only) trades people Wood Works A.H.B.S withsee www.installationgallery.co.uk fully qualified engineer to see Carpentry All makesa gallery of of washing our previous machines, installations. Businesses & Services FULL CARPENTRY fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, SERVICE FROM All aspects of CARPENTRY t/dryers,Very dishwashers, competitively elecpriced ovens. against on the Downs Mail DECKING TO DOORS, Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and  All workall guaranteed Suppliers directory fitted, Loft Conversions, Doors hung,  Free estimatesMobile No: 07855 and 466438call out KITCHENS & FLOORS. Locks fitted, Skirting, small alterations, 01622Tel No: 673113 0800 1804590 downsmail.co.uk ALL JOBS BIG & SMALL. Plastering and Tiling Anytime:Based 07831 in Maidstone 557677 All work guaranteed. MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD Skip Hire IN AND AROUND THE HOME FREE ESTIMATES Bathrooms Family business established 21 years CALL Cliff on 01622 743648 01233 660 099 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 The complete Bathroomwww.gboxkent.com 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Plastering Maintenance Company SKIP HIRE Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES Commercial & Domestic Recycling Services Supply • Install • Repair H & G Chimney Services Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] 01622 736266 ALL WORK GUARANTEED Plumbing & Heating Book Online Order your skip via secure Builders Skip Hire • Covering All Aspects of Plumbing 24hr online book facility Roll On/Offs Clean Sweep & Heating • Power Flushing 4 Yard Skip £192 inc Vat Road Permits Arranged • Toilets,Taps, Cylinders Brush & vacuum • Landlord Certificates • All Work 6 Yard Skip £228 inc Vat MDW asteBuilding Recycling & Facility Services Insured & Guaranteed 8P YaAULrd Skip B£2EST64 inc Vat Specialists in Wood burners and flues 578573 12 Yard Skip £360 inc Vat • Extensions • Refurbishments Telephone Mark: Brickwork • Plastering (All aspects) supplied and fitted 01622 210861 or 07858 021142 Many more services available. •See Electrics web s•i teModernisations for details O Extensions • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations All work insured O • Driveways, Patios & Repointing General Builder Maidstone• Fencing March & Blockpaving 2019 39 O 25 years Experience All work certified to cover insurance FULLY INSURED Pest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark 07841 409061 e: [email protected] Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Weddings attended Building Plans Member of the ICS HETAS approved Contact Kevin Bovis 01622 844385 07885 651578 [email protected]

38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Classified downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified

TV, Aerials & Satellites Water Services Window Services continued WEST MALLING GARAGE PAUL MILL Television Ltd Full-time MOT Tester and Light Vehicle Technician required for 01622 751000 Est. 1981 established local MOT, service and repair garage • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & 3D Screens • Freeview play • Catch Up & On Demand BBC iPlayer, ITV Player & 4oD Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5.30pm with a 1 hour unpaid lunch. • Your local Sky expert, SKY HD, multiroom & “hidden” dish installation Alternative Saturdays: 8.00am to 12:30pm • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial, dish installation service TV wall mounting service. Wage dependent on experience. Experience of working within the Please phone us for free friendly advice today motor industry is essential along with a valid Class IV MOT license. Bower Place Maidstone ME16 8BG www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service For more details please call 01732 874350 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-noon Upholstery Media Sales

Come and join our friendly sales team and share in our success.

Classified downsmail.co.uk Recruitment continued Field Sales/Key Account Executive Web Design

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The ideal candidatein Octo Malli n will have previous PERT post n East Y EX .com arage i OPERT tinco the vic AL PR • Kent R LOC aidstone YOU maidstonea@nem • Mar WIN A time for udding L 290 23 P A Christmas You will be working on the best publications 90 turkey & all sharing this the experience1622 6 in a similar role and will: trim Septic Tanks 0 mings Kent’s Most Awarded.uk Optician CHRISTMAS etrists.co Days ou Window Services Book Nowwww.op 01732tom 617557 t • Thea tre • H om serving the local community and enjoy a es & G ard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • MB WINDOW CLEANING Autumn 2015 Walks Drain Clearing working environment that provides you with • HaveMay a confident be and outgoing requiredFRE personality to do • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning E • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Gutter, Fasciathe & Conservatory freedom and• Professional flexibility & Reliable to use Service your initiative On the pumpkin Sludge Removal •trail Have at some excellent communication hand skills work. while working within a supportive team. Emmetts 01622 863502 07950 211 507 Gard Treatment Plants Thise nis a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.ukThe role will [email protected] involve: Ashley week to be worked overJa ck3/4son days (there will be • Handling inbound and making outbound calls Kent’s hockey Gulleys & Forecourts someTel: flexibility in01622 the hours/dayssuperstar 843112 to be worked 01622 880840 Quote ‘The Downs Mail’• Developing business fromAccess existing clients for the right candidate). High Pressure Jetting • Obtaining and growing new business You willEmail: require the use [email protected] your own car • Working to achieve revenueDenied targets. and have a full driving licence. Window Services Domestic & Commercial The ideal candidate will have previous Basic salary + uncapped commission Double Glazing Repairs WIN A time for A Christmas + bonus. OTE (based on 32 hour week) £18000 pa turkey & all the sharing this experience in a similar role and will: trim mings CHRISTMAS Days ou t • Thea & Locksmith Services Mileagetre • Hallowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Friendly, flexible, om es & G ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSED CARRIERS • Have worked to personal sales targets arden s • • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock family owned business. Walks MB WINDOW CLEANING • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning• Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes Email applications,UK including DIRECT your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. MAILING LTD • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Lost key replaced• Be& doors self-motivated opened • Patio and doors, able runners to show & rollers initiative [email protected] 01622 631688 01622 611107• Have excellent / 07967 communication 625 skills447 01622 863502 07950 211 507 This is a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per DOOR-to-DOOR DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Four editio ns d elivered to over 88,000 h www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected] Malling Edition omes every m We are currently recruiting a onth week to be worked over 3/4 days (there will be downsmail.co.uk Maidstone T Prompt & Friendly Service own | Maidstone & 24Hr - 7 Days A Week Maidstone E No. 1 Malling’s THE K newspaper ent Co ast | joyed unty S Maidstone South | fine how e bum weat n- per cro her a grou wds at nd FREE nds in the sho Malling M Detling w- ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 July 2016 last r 3,00 year, a 0 up on some flexibility in the hours/days to be worked the ttende No. 231 d county one o C ’s bigg f ompe est eve News To deliver the Downsan titors, s nts. Mail in the following areas… d bu tallh sinesse olders across s came the cou from Bett the usu ntry bu er buses c al big lo t had PARE Amon cal pre NTS a all The Paddock, Detiling Hill, Maidstone, Kent g thos sence. bett re urgi Sha e w er schoo ng action to g n, of S ere Jo l bus services f K taple Kings H AAA D.BODY www.dbody.co.uk en She hurst, a ill an et lton nd d W r bot , of A y Malling est om h pictu lesford . rep red, wh , resente o Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 c hsia G id Ken Ph Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ ha roup. 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R e ADER ss P 6 n S and p etition The role will involve: h ew om r A against gym roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty h e one Denied at is th ty to r M e ead y. n e p t d in ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn. set to o Denied the ro nd cou ocal bu op nan Joe’s dash f and have a full driving licence. ute li ncillo si- p en za w out nkin rs wh eopl with ith skirts g the o say e are in w a THE last pub i or c ho of th A228 trade looki eek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n n Ditton loo e r rin m n the n an ing a when ward g- ew lease o ean a oppo d new cross traffic to a an offi f l ks set h n incr site b A the br starts start ce blo ife as Vintersouse ease i ank w mong idge. flow- my ow Parkck. / Grove Green price n bu ill the wa n b Th s. siness m is h s one usines e £19 and airdre Sn of the s. 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It w ry rom a wer , d e ago, b H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in Basic salary + uncapped commission usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf n . s ber : “I wa rs. ham tly m ” ord. ’s in T s man with w oving onbrid aging looki ife, K to Wo ge bu a bar- ng for atie, A uld- t I wa ing ward t lex is nted t to sho o the also o com rten h bridge mute is dail open and its quarterly sister publication . y work - 01233 840624 8 YOU Police R LOC 01622 690290SnodlandAL P A FO to Insi / Kings Hill Double Glazing Repairs R R pulpit d OPE MER e th RTY ficer Metr is edi maidston eE@XmP ar is t opolit NEW tion: ERT Ma he ne an Pol build lling, w vi ice of- Malli ing p HGV DRIVER,+ bonus. FOR OTE A (based SKIP on 32COMPANY hour week) £18000 pa 23 Pudding Lane Re Teston car a ng are ropos tinco v N an t E b bein als ick W d Wat ast ridge g draw for • Maidstone .com with illiam eringb and M n up a two s s, wh ury. on its alling s Ton- • Developing business from existing clients • K p ons o is eme Coun ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vica ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an rage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk [email protected] & Locksmith Services Mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata)experienced, Friendly,Penenden flexible,all-round journalist Heath / Park Wood / Tovil / Allington • Obtaining and growing new business to be Deputy Editor. • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lockCONTACT family owned business. FREE D.T Autumn 2015 • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • LetterboxesMARK ON Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. • Working to achieve revenue targets SKIP HIRE The role entails all aspects of newspaper • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & [email protected] work so a sound knowledgeEach of news round is approx. 1000 addresses, gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Garden The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a The successful candidateso will helpyou to must have a good level of fitness.

Four editio managens deliv a small, dedicated team and ered to over 88,000 h Malling Edition omes e similar role and will: deputise for the veditor.ery m We are currently recruiting a onth Good rates of pay. downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone T Theown | deputy editor will Malsoaidstone & Mdrivealling’s content to Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper T HE Ken jo t Coun ast | yed fi ty Sho Maidstone South | b ne w w en- umper eather A time for g crowds and FREE rounds at the • Have worked to personal sales targets in De show- Malling Mor ourtling. expanding daily news website. The role e than 8 sharing this visitors 0,000 , over 3 July 2016 last ye ,000 u ar, a tt p on No. 231 the c ended ounty’ one of Co s bigge mpetit st even News and ors, sta ts. CHRISTMAS busine llholde acro srequiresses ca rs creative input into our popular ss m the co e from Bett the u untry b er buses c sual bi ut ha P A g local d ARENT all mong presen S are s Sh those w ce. better school buurgs isnegrv aiccetiso fn to g Walk an, of S ere Jo ns • Ke tapleh Kings H et rde n Shelt urst, an ill an Ga bo on, of A d Malling. d West rom es & th pict ylesfo om r ured, wmagazinerd, Mid Kent Living. as • H ep h WINtm resent o atre • Have a confident and outgoing personality e e Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 A Chris ll the Th c hsia G id Ken & a ut • ha roup. K t Phone bo key ys o s been en sai tur mings Da s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa m how.” derful ERS ha ved tri ways of r ve com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxens.g thei ith ge 16 res, see r This is a full time position based at our Recruitment Must An haveearly Christmas 4 an CHILD choristors in M are recor tiv ding a C ereworth B e song D of f r s in Octob es- id er. friendlyg offices in Bearsted.5 in Pla • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative g yground anger Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail th KINGS Hill r e wer esidents s e m b g isled ab ay the u plan out a y Looking for a change? s ap ned new i play ar n to ea. TR e Android phone as AD s  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition ew om r A against gym roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty ha ty er M e one t is the to ed adin y. ness p predic the to wa g fo 12 eople tion of wn y set to r a b the r and co local . o ona Joe’s dash f oute uncill busi- pen nza out linkin ors wh peopl with with • Have excellent communication skills sk g o e in a THE irts o the A2 Salarysay t are lo £28,000we last pub in Dittonr loco pa ho f th 28 rade oki ek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath n th n a e in wh rwar ring ew m e n g a en d - lease of l ean a oppo d new cross traffic to a an office block. ks set h n incr site b A the br starts start ife as ouse ease i ank w mong idge. allflow- my o rounds are pri n b ill th wn ces. usine em is was on busin The £ ss and haird e of th ess. T  w 19 m resser Snodl e mai he bri Obituaries 28 hich i illion Mack Alex and to n reas dge s due road intosh expa open ons I c has be to ope brid ture (pic nding a barb hose en bu n in S ge, d lef - The and u er’s. I  port, ilt by eptem op t) wh re are p and t’s an Com 32 as the devel ber, ened h o up lots o comin men 1,00 key t oper A is sal all a f new g area t 0 hom o Pete Tren- lexand on th round house . eas e new rs Vil 32dayst er’s in ey fin thannuale a s goin  leave t ban com lage, own’ the ish th rea, g 34 k near munit a s peopl e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With Woul y on t Stree High e will ge, I th nce Sno dha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nveni cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ent fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er d e Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, ago, b , H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in usines e said mute monitoredx of r rece e map lly Aylesf with a s b : “I rs. ham ntly .” or er’s in was m with movin d. Tonb anagin loo wife, g to W ridge g a b king f Katie ould- but I w ar- in orwar , Alex ante g to sh d to th is als d to c orten e brid o If you wouldomm his da likege ope a new challenge or are keen ute il n and its quarterly sister publication . y work -  Y Police 8 OUR L OCA A to 01622 690290L PRO FOR pulpit Insid good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat PER MER M e this TY E ficer etrop N editi maidstone@XmPEaRr is the olitan EW b on: to makeT Mall in a nestepw Police Mup,uilding we’d love to hear from you. g, vi of- alli p HGV DRIVER, FOR A SKIP COMPANY 23 Pudding Lane Re Teston car a ng are ropos £600 t b a v N an E b ei ls You will require the use of your own car and a full driving license tinco ick d W ast ridg ng dr for • M .com GPSwi Willia aterin e and trackerawn up app. The largest independently owned liquid aidston th tw ms, gbur on Mall as T o w y i in o e • K p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vic ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an arage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports call Richard on 0757 076 8834 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk waste management company in the UK £660 experienced, all-round journalist Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Friendly, flexible, family owned business. CONTACT to be Deputy Editor. simon.fi[email protected] £860 Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable FREE MARK ON D.T ForAutumn 2015 further The role entails all aspects of newspaper Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + mileage www.mtscleansing.co.uk £880SKIP HIRE Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 07860832233 work so a sound knowledge of news information allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. supersta please contact Emmetts Garden The successful candidate will help to • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys manage a small, dedicated team and Richard on • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services deputise for the editor. The deputy editor will also drive content to Email applications, including your CV to the • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions A time for our expanding daily news website. The role sharing this requires creative input into our popular CHRISTMAS sales manager, Bill Brett - [email protected] • Waste disposal & recyclingt s • Walk rdens 07570 768834 Ga mes & magazine Mid Kent Living. as • Ho WINtm tre ll the hea A Chris& a t • T key gs s ou tur min Day This is a full time position based at our trim Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail friendly offices in Bearsted. 40 Maidstone March 2019 Maidstone March 2019 41 in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath Salary £28,000 pa 32days annual leave Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, If you would like a new challenge or are keen good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat to make a step up, we’d love to hear from you. call Richard on 0757 076 8834 Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable simon.fi[email protected]

Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 Classified downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified

TV, Aerials & Satellites Water Services Window Services continued WEST MALLING GARAGE PAUL MILL Television Ltd Full-time MOT Tester and Light Vehicle Technician required for 01622 751000 Est. 1981 established local MOT, service and repair garage • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & 3D Screens • Freeview play • Catch Up & On Demand BBC iPlayer, ITV Player & 4oD Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5.30pm with a 1 hour unpaid lunch. • Your local Sky expert, SKY HD, multiroom & “hidden” dish installation Alternative Saturdays: 8.00am to 12:30pm • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial, dish installation service TV wall mounting service. Wage dependent on experience. Experience of working within the Please phone us for free friendly advice today motor industry is essential along with a valid Class IV MOT license. Bower Place Maidstone ME16 8BG www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk We pride ourselves on being a local business offering outstanding service For more details please call 01732 874350 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-noon Upholstery Media Sales

Come and join our friendly sales team and share in our success.

Classified downsmail.co.uk Recruitment continued Field Sales/Key Account Executive Web Design

ail.co.uk downsm mes every month 8,000 ho Maidstone & Malling’s Come and join our friendly sales ewspaper No. 1 n Is required to sell advertising across our publications, Four editions delivered to over 8 FREE 31 Malling Edition 6 No. 2 July 201 team and share in our success. Malling News all ast | Maidstone South | er buses c Bett ging action to get EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS are ur es from own | Maidstone E PARENTS better school buse ssetrvic 3 Maidstone T Kings Hill and W n- Show e Malling. County d E Kent her an ed TH weat - v d fine e show xes sa joye ds at th mail.co.uk er crow Phone bo e come up with downs ump g. av Classified b etlin GERS h ir nds in D VILLA ing the 4 We are currently recruiting a ou 0 in gr n 80,00 reta online products and work on special projects. re tha on ways of Mo ,000 up , over 3 of red phone boxes. visitors ded one r, atten nts. ast yea est eve as l y’s bigg rs ristm e count llholde th tors, sta eworth ompeti e from An early Ch C ses cam es- busines ut had CHILD chorisgt oar sC iDn oMf efr 5 and untry b ecordin s the co esence. are r tober. acros local pr sual big Jo tive songs in Oc the u se were • Google Marketing / Search Engine Promotion ong tho nd Am hurst, a f Staple rd, Shan, o Aylesfo yground angy ethre y lton, of Pla en She ho esidents sa K ured, w t KINGS Hill r th pict Mid Ken d about a 6 bo d the It ere misle y area. resente n said: “ w ew pla rep roup. Ke ed n uchsia G erful plann Recruitment continued F a wond m n y has bee ainst g Field Sales/ .” e n ag show res, se titio ybourne re pictu Pe in Le Mo AN outdoor gym as 12 age 16  p y. has been df imsmoinsseed a waste o or cash • Web Site Design • E-Commerce Websites • Hosting Joe’s dash f looks set Web Design st pub in Ditton la e as Bridging the gap to a THE se of lif 28 ith for a new lea . nza w block Web Services a bona - an office 32 for ng  eading eks, b ri Key Account Executive d are h thin we n i Snodla open w Obituaries 34 ers in set to e businessown prosperityway e bridg t ome ed ss. Th en nd h iver M busine I chose Comm RS a e R y own easons ADE ss th tart m main r t’s an 43 TR e acro to a s of the ber’s. I ridg wn. ward as one n a bar rea. eports oad b he to ng for w- w to ope ming a This is a part time position 26 - 32 hours r t i lo d co ew ty to re look starts f nodlan p and oing Crime R ere n peri ple a traffic S g and u uses g r w Waste Services pros i- peo when andin ew ho nce and coppe ford. us m p f n o yles .uk new local b de boo ge. lex ex lots o , and OOF lead se in A ing tion of ay tra the brid esser A ere are e area t of R a hou predic who s across hairdr c- Th und th ink a lo rom • Email • Web Site Maintenance t is the cillors ing em is sh (pi all aro ge, I th e stolen f a n e h to d id Th nd cou 8 on th ong t ackin o up the bri that s downsmail.co eople a e A22 Am M ft) wh finish er from ry ness p ing th d new ed le they ome ov be ve te link n an tur s salon e will c it will the rou he tow k will ned hi peopl ecause l really s of t te ban ope in the river b . It wil to sell advertising across our utskirt pposi and nder’s of the them o the o iness Alexa gh t for .” es on in bus Hi venien he map ld- omes every month hom rease wn’s n con nd on t o Wou an inc , to seve nodla ving t o mean bridge eet put S tly mo x is als Maidstone & Malling’s rices. road Str o be- r recen ie, Ale ouse p llion mber, ths ag Afte e, Kat open- Come and join our friendly sales h 19 mi Septe mon antic- ith wif bridge The £ pen in ren- of the am w to the : No. 1 newspaper ue to o oper T cause of h orward work dition ich is d devel , a influx oking f s daily 8 this e for wh uilt by Village ipated lo rten hi nside oposals been b Peters e to sho I ng pr Ton- has ey to y on th uters. r- ing uildi n up as s the k munit comm g a ba ute. NEW b g draw rks Four editions delivered to over 88,000 h port, a w com ers and anagin comm are bein ncil wo me ne am. shopp was m ted to alling g Cou ,000 ho ouldh g the id: “I t I wan M d Mallin See the 1 near W y feelin He sa ge bu pulpit- dge an al Plan. FREE st bank alread ink, onbrid to olice of bri ing Loc alling publications and online products. ea odland rail l r’s in T litan P s emerg nt by M h Sn eed be Police opo ast on it eme ts 31 Wit high-sp siness R Metr r at E e suppl suppor . 2 of a ago, bu ORME vica ry. ur-pag , which Malling Edition No enefit year A F e new ringbu fo nership ents in 6 b arted a is th Wate d ion Part and ev hich st ficer n and marrie Act nesses area. July 201 w g, Testo ho is le, busi Malling Mallin ams, w is new peop s in the k Willi rt in h parishe per week over 4-5 days Nic sta 11 Rev ns, will in the two so d live 5 with ber an g.  team and share in our success. in Octo Mallin News ERT post East Y EXP rage in all PERT tinco.com he vica L PRO r Kent t ast | Maidstone South | Malling LOCA stone • er buses c OUR maidstone@em • Maaid Bett ging action to get Y ding Lan EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS Maidstone E are ur rom 23 Pud owYoun | will be workingPARENTS on the best publications 690290 better school b Wuse ssetrvices f 3 01622 Maidstone T Kings Hill and n- Kent’s Most Awarded.co.uk Optician Show e Malling. etrists County d ww.optom E Kent her an ed Book Noww 01732 617557 TH weat - v d fine e show xes sa joye ds at th with er crow serving the local communityPhone bo e come up and enjoy a ump g. v b n Detlin GERS ha heir We are currently recruiting a ounds i 0 VILLA ining t 4 gr n 80,00 of reta ore tha up on ways s. Autumn 2015 M r 3,000 e boxe ors, ove ne of red phon visit ended o ear, att events. as last y biggest You will be representing the best publications serving ounty’s olders the c s,workingstallh environment thateworth provides you with FRE tor ompeti e from An early Christm E C ses cam es- busines ut had CHILD chorisgt oar sC iDn oMf efr 5 and untry b ecordin s the co esence. are r ber. acros local pr sual big Jo tive songs in Octo the u se were • Google Marketing / Search Engine Promotion ong tho nd m t, a A plehurs anger , o f Statheford, freedom and flexibilityound y to use your initiative Shan f Ayles ygr y the elton, o Pla On the pumpkin Ken Sh who l residents sa ctured, ent KINGS Hil D. BODY LTD both pi e Mid K d about a 6 d th It ere misle y area. trail at resente n said: “ w rep oup. Ke nned new pla hsia Gr fuRecruitmentl pla Fuc der n a won ym has bee while working within a supportive team. Field Sales/ .” e n against g e Emmetts e show tures, s etitio ybourn ore pic P in Le the local community and enjoy a working environment M AN outdoor gym as 12 age 16  p en dismisseyd. Gard has be f mone a waste o en ash ash for c • Web Site Design • E-Commerce Websites • Hosting The role will involve:Joe’s d s set THE last pub in Dit tliofen alosok Ashley Bridging the gap to a w lease of 28 ith for a ne anza w ice block. Jackson r a bon - an off 32 ding fo s, b ring  Waste Collection are h ea in week Kent’s hockey Key Account Executive d th odlan en wi Obituaries • Handlingrs in Sn inboundet to op and making34 outbound calls e s e businessown prosperityway e bridg t superstar ome ed ess. Th e en that provides you with the freedom and flexibility to use nd h iver M busin I chos Comm RS a e R y own easons ADE ross th start m main r It’s an 43 TR e ac to a of the rber’s. ridg wn. ward as one n a ba area. eports oad b the to ng for w- w to ope oming ew r to looki tarts flo dland and c ing Crime R e n perity le are raffic s Sno and up ses go r wer pros peop hen t nding w hou ce ord. ew al busi- boom w . expa ts of ne nd on Aylesf in•g n Developingn of loc trade bridge er A lexbusinessare lo area, a f RO OFfrom lead and copsep ein existing clients tio ay the ess ere e t o a hou predic who s across hairdr c- Th und th ink a lo rom • Email • Web Site Maintenance t is the cillors ing em is sh (pi all aro ge, I th de stolen f a n e o Th nd cou on th ong th ackint o up he brid that si eople a e A228 Am M t) wh finish t er from y 01622 880840 ness p ing th new ed lef they me ov be ver d o te link n an tur s salon e will c it will the rou he tow k will ned hi peopl ecause l really s of t te ban ope in the river b . It wil to sell advertising across our utskirt pposi and nder’s of the them o the o Experiencedsiness Alexa igh nt for ap.” Tractor Driver required es on in bu H nvenie the m uld- hom crease own’s en co nd on to Wo • anObtainingin , t andsev Snod lagrowingoving lso new business n e t mea . bridg treet e- pu ently m lex is a prices road , S ago b fter rec atie, A n- house illion tember nths - A ife, K ge ope £19 m in Sep mo e antic with w he brid The o open Tren- se of th ham ard to t k on: your initiative while working within a supportive team. t r u f r i is due velope ca flux o ng forw ily wo 8 is edit for which by de lage, a ed in looki his da de th sals n built ers Vil ipat shorten Insi propo - as bee to Pet n the ers. ing to uilding p as Ton h he key unity o mmut bar- te. W b rawn u rt, as t comm and co ging a ommu NE being d l works po e new . oppers s mana d to c ing are Counci • 0 Workinghom uldham the sh : “I towa waachievente revenueMall alling e the targets. ,00 o g id t I d M Se 1 near W y feelin He sa ge bu pulpit- dge an al Plan. st bank alread ink, onbrid to olice of bri ing Loc alling publications and online products. ea odland rail l r’s in T litan P s emerg nt by M Sn eed be Police opo ast on it eme ts Cesspool Emptying With igh-sp siness R Metr r at E suppl suppor h e of a ago, bu ORME vica ry. ur-pag , which enefit year A F e new ringbu fo nership ents in b arted a is th Wate d ion Part and ev hich st ficer n and marrie Act nesses area. w g, Testo ho is le, busi Malling Mallin ms, w is new peop s in the for Landscapeick Willia rt in h parishe Contractor based in Maidstone. v N ill sta he 11 Window Services Re sons, w e in t two d liv 5 with ber an g.  The ideal candidatein Octo Malli n will have previous PERT post n East Y EX .com arage i OPERT tinco the vic AL PR e@mar • Kent R LOC aidstone YOU maidston ane • M WIN A time for udding L 290 23 P A Christmas You will be working on the best publications 90 turkey & all sharing this the experience1622 6 in a similar role and will: trim Septic Tanks 0 mings Kent’s Most Awarded.uk Optician CHRISTMAS etrists.co Days ou Window Services Book Nowwww.op 01732tom 617557 t • Thea tre • H om serving the local community and enjoy a es & G ard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • MB WINDOW CLEANING Autumn 2015 Walks Drain Clearing working environment that provides you with • HaveMay a confident be and outgoing requiredFRE personality to do • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning E • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Gutter, Fasciathe & Conservatory freedom and• Professional flexibility & Reliable to use Service your initiative On the pumpkin Sludge Removal •trail Have at some excellent communication hand skills work. while working within a supportive team. Emmetts 01622 863502 07950 211 507 Gard Treatment Plants Thise nis a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.ukThe role will [email protected] involve: Ashley week to be worked overJa ck3/4son days (there will be • Handling inbound and making outbound calls Kent’s hockey Gulleys & Forecourts someTel: flexibility in01622 the hours/dayssuperstar 843112 to be worked 01622 880840 Quote ‘The Downs Mail’• Developing business fromAccess existing clients for the right candidate). High Pressure Jetting • Obtaining and growing new business You willEmail: require the use [email protected] your own car • Working to achieve revenueDenied targets. and have a full driving licence. Window Services Domestic & Commercial The ideal candidate will have previous Basic salary + uncapped commission Double Glazing Repairs WIN A time for A Christmas + bonus. OTE (based on 32 hour week) £18000 pa turkey & all the sharing this experience in a similar role and will: trim mings CHRISTMAS Days ou t • Thea & Locksmith Services Mileagetre • Hallowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Friendly, flexible, om es & G ENVIRONMENTAL LICENSED CARRIERS • Have worked to personal sales targets arden s • • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock family owned business. Walks MB WINDOW CLEANING • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning• Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes Email applications,UK including DIRECT your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. MAILING LTD • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Lost key replaced• Be& doors self-motivated opened • Patio and doors, able runners to show & rollers initiative [email protected] 01622 631688 01622 611107• Have excellent / 07967 communication 625 skills447 01622 863502 07950 211 507 This is a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per DOOR-to-DOOR DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Four editio ns d elivered to over 88,000 h Malling Edition omes ever www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected] y m We are currently recruiting a onth week to be worked over 3/4 days (there will be downsmail.co.uk Maidstone T Prompt & Friendly Service own | Maidstone & 24Hr - 7 Days A Week Maidstone E No. 1 n Malling’s THE K ewspaper ent Co ast | joyed unty S Maidstone South | fine how e bum weat n- per cro her a grou wds at nd FREE nds in the sho Malling M Detling w- ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 July 2016 last r 3,00 year, a 0 up on some flexibility in the hours/days to be worked the ttende No. 231 d county one o C ’s bigg f ompe est eve News To deliver the Downsan titors, s nts. Mail in the following areas… d bu tallh sinesse olders across s came the cou from Bett the usu ntry bu er buses c al big lo t had PARE Amon cal pre NTS a all The Paddock, Detiling Hill, Maidstone, Kent g thos sence. bett re urging actio Sha e w er school n, of S ere Jo n to g K taple Kings H bus services f AAA D.BODY www.dbody.co.uk en She hurst, a ill an et lton nd d W r bot , of A y Malling. est om h pictu lesford rep red, wh , resente o Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 c hsia G id Ken Pho Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ ha roup. K t ne bo for the right candidate). s b en een said sh a wond : “It VILLAG xes sa ow.” erful ERS ved ways of r have com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red pho ng thei ith Access ge 16 res, see ne boxes. r Access 4 An earl Recruitment y Christmas CHILD choristo are reco rs in M tiv rding a C erewo B e songs in O D of f rth Headcorn / Staplehurstes- / Boughton Monchelsea r ctob id er. g 5 in Pla g ygroun You will require the use of your own car th KINGS Hill r d ange e wer esidents r e m b g isled ab say the u plan out a y Looking for a change? a ne p d ne s w i play ar 1510 T n to ea. R e ADER ss P 6 n S and p etition again The role will involve: h ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym st gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty h e one Denied at is th ty to r M e ead y. n e p t d in ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn. set to o Denied the ro nd cou ocal bu op nan Joe’s dash f and have a full driving licence. ute li ncillo si- p en za w out nkin rs wh eopl with ith skirts g the o say e are in w a THE last pub in Dittonr loco ho of th A228 trade looki eek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n e r rin m n the n an ing a when ward g- ew lease o ean a oppo d new cross traffic to a an off f l ks set h n incr site b A the br starts start ice blo ife as Vintersouse ease i ank w mong idge. flow- my ow Parkck. / Grove Green price n bu ill the wa n b Th s. siness m is h s one usines e £19 and airdre Sn of the s. The Obituaries  wh mill M sser A odlan main r bridg 28 ich is d ion r ackin lex e d to o eason e ha ue to oad b tosh xpand pen a s I cho s been open ridge tured (pic- ing an barber se  p built in Sep , left) There d up a ’s. It’s 32 ort, as by d tembe open who are lo nd co an Com the k evelop r, ed his up a ts of n ming men 1,000 ey to er Tr Ale salon ll aro ew h area. t home Peters en- xande the und t ouses east new c Villa tow r’s in t y finis he ar going  bank n omm ge, a n’s he pe h the b ea, an 34 • Handling inbound and making outbound calls ea unit op rid d o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With r Wou y on t Stree High le will ge, I th nce Sno ldha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nven cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ient fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a wer , d e ago, b H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in Basic salary + uncapped commission usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf n . s ber : “I wa rs. ham tly m ” ord. ’s in T s man with w oving onbrid aging looki ife, K to Wo ge bu a bar- ng for atie, A uld- t I wa ing ward t lex is nted t to sho o the also o com rten h bridge mute is dail open and its quarterly sister publication . y work - 01233 840624 8 YOU Police R LOC 01622 690290SnodlandAL P A FO to Insi / Kings Hill Double Glazing Repairs R R pulpit d OPE MER e th RTY ficer Metr is edi maidston eE@XmP ar is t opolit NEW tion: ERT Ma he ne an Pol build lling, w vi ice of- Malli ing p HGV DRIVER,+ bonus. FOR OTE A (based SKIP on 32COMPANY hour week) £18000 pa 23 Pudding Lane • M Re Teston car a ng are ropos tinco v N an t E b bein als ick W d Wat ast ridge g draw for aidstone •. cKom with illiam eringb and M n up a two s s, wh ury. on its alling s Ton- • Developing business from existing clients p ons o is eme Coun ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vica ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an rage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk [email protected] & Locksmith Services Mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata)experienced, Friendly,Penenden flexible,all-round journalist Heath / Park Wood / Tovil / Allington • Obtaining and growing new business to be Deputy Editor. • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lockCONTACT family owned business. FREE D.T Autumn 2015 • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • LetterboxesMARK ON Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. • Working to achieve revenue targets SKIP HIRE The role entails all aspects of newspaper • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & [email protected] work so a sound knowledgeEach of news round is approx. 1000 addresses, gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Garden The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a The successful candidateso will helpyou to must have a good level of fitness.

Four editio managens deliv a small, dedicated team and ered to over 88,000 h Malling Edition omes e similar role and will: deputise for the veditor.ery m We are currently recruiting a onth Good rates of pay. downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone T Theown | deputy editor will Malsoaidstone & Mdrivealling’s content to Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper T HE Ken jo t Coun ast | yed fi ty Sho Maidstone South | b ne w w en- umper eather A time for g crowds and FREE rounds at the • Have worked to personal sales targets in De show- Malling Mor ourtling. expanding daily news website. The role e than 8 sharing this visitors 0,000 , over 3 July 2016 last ye ,000 u ar, a tt p on No. 231 the c ended ounty’ one of Co s bigge mpetit st even News and ors, sta ts. CHRISTMAS busine llholde acro srequiresses ca rs creative input into our popular ss m the co e from Bett the u untry b er buses c sual bi ut ha P A g local d ARENT all mong presen S are s Sh those w ce. better school buurgs isnegrv aiccetiso fn to g Walk an, of S ere Jo ns • Ke tapleh Kings H et rde n Shelt urst, an ill an Ga bo on, of A d Malling. d West rom es & th pict ylesfo om r ured, wmagazinerd, Mid Kent Living. as • H ep h WINtm resent o atre • Have a confident and outgoing personality e e Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 A Chris ll the Th c hsia G id Ken & a ut • ha roup. K t Phone bo key ys o s been en sai tur mings Da s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa m how.” derful ERS ha ved tri ways of r ve com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxens.g thei ith ge 16 res, see r This is a full time position based at our Recruitment Must An haveearly Christmas 4 an CHILD choristors in M are recor tiv ding a C ereworth B e song D of f r s in Octob es- id er. friendlyg offices in Bearsted.5 in Pla • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative g yground anger Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail th KINGS Hill r e wer esidents s e m b g isled ab ay the u plan out a y Looking for a change? s ap ned new i play ar n to ea. TR e Android phone as AD s  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty ha ty er M e one t is the to ed adin y. ness p predic the to wa g fo 12 eople tion of wn y set to r a b the r and co local . o ona Joe’s dash f oute uncill busi- pen nza out linkin ors wh peopl with with • Have excellent communication skills sk g o e in a THE irts o the A2 Salarysay t are lo £28,000we last pub in Dittonr loco pa ho f th 28 rade oki ek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath n th n a e in wh rwar ring ew m e n g a en d - lease of l ean a oppo d new cross traffic to a an office block. ks set h n incr site b A the br starts start ife as ouse ease i ank w mong idge. allflow- my o rounds are pri n b ill th wn ces. usine em is was on busin The £ ss and haird e of th ess. T  w 19 m resser Snodl e mai he bri Obituaries 28 hich i illion Mack Alex and to n reas dge s due road intosh expa open ons I c has be to ope brid ture (pic nding a barb hose en bu n in S ge, d lef - The and u er’s. I  port, ilt by eptem op t) wh re are p and t’s an Com 32 as the devel ber, ened h o up lots o comin men 1,00 key t oper A is sal all a f new g area t 0 hom o Pete Tren- lexand on th round house . eas e new rs Vil 32dayst er’s in ey fin thannuale a s goin  leave t ban com lage, own’ the ish th rea, g 34 k near munit a s peopl e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With Woul y on t Stree High e will ge, I th nce Sno dha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nveni cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ent fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er d e Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, ago, b , H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in usines e said mute monitoredx of r rece e map lly Aylesf with a s b : “I rs. ham ntly .” or er’s in was m with movin d. Tonb anagin loo wife, g to W ridge g a b king f Katie ould- but I w ar- in orwar , Alex ante g to sh d to th is als d to c orten e brid o If you wouldomm his da likege ope a new challenge or are keen ute il n and its quarterly sister publication . y work -  Y Police 8 OUR L OCA A to 01622 690290L PRO FOR pulpit Insid good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat PER MER M e this TY E ficer etrop N editi maidstone@XmPEaRr is the olitan EW b on: to makeT Mall in a nestepw Police Mup,uilding we’d love to hear from you. g, vi of- alli p HGV DRIVER, FOR A SKIP COMPANY 23 Pudding Lane Re Teston car a ng are ropos £600 t b a v N an E b ei ls You will require the use of your own car and a full driving license tinco ick d W ast ridg ng dr for • M .com GPSwi Willia aterin e and trackerawn up app. The largest independently owned liquid aidston th tw ms, gbur on Mall as T o w y i in o e • K p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vic ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an arage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports call Richard on 0757 076 8834 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk waste management company in the UK £660 experienced, all-round journalist Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Friendly, flexible, family owned business. CONTACT to be Deputy Editor. simon.fi[email protected] £860 Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable FREE MARK ON D.T ForAutumn 2015 further The role entails all aspects of newspaper Basic salary + uncapped commission + bonus + mileage www.mtscleansing.co.uk £880SKIP HIRE Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 07860832233 work so a sound knowledge of news information allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. supersta please contact Emmetts Garden The successful candidate will help to • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys manage a small, dedicated team and Richard on • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services deputise for the editor. The deputy editor will also drive content to Email applications, including your CV to the • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions A time for our expanding daily news website. The role sharing this requires creative input into our popular CHRISTMAS sales manager, Bill Brett - [email protected] • Waste disposal & recyclingt s • Walk rdens 07570 768834 Ga mes & magazine Mid Kent Living. as • Ho WINtm tre ll the hea A Chris& a t • T key gs s ou tur min Day This is a full time position based at our trim Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail friendly offices in Bearsted. 40 Maidstone March 2019 Maidstone March 2019 41 in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath Salary £28,000 pa 32days annual leave Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, If you would like a new challenge or are keen good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat to make a step up, we’d love to hear from you. call Richard on 0757 076 8834 Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable simon.fi[email protected]

Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 Time on your hands? Don’t know what to do? Why not join the Maidstone Hospital League of Friends

WE URGENTLY NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS:

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

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

LEEDS CASTLE SEASONAL VACANCIES

Leeds Castle is one of the biggest heritage attractions in England welcoming over half a million visitors each year. We are looking forward to another busy summer season and are recruiting housekeeping staff to join our award winning team.

HOUSEKEEPING Our housekeeping staff are responsible for cleaning all B&B and holiday cottages across the estate, as well as rooms in the castle. You will have the opportunity to work in beautiful surroundings with ÁH[LEOHKRXUVWRÀWDURXQGIDPLO\FRPPLWPHQWV:HDUHRSHQGD\VHDFK\HDUDQGWKHUHZLOOEHVKLIWSDWWHUQV to suit everyone!

FUNCTIONS ASSISTANTS We are also looking for functions assistants to join our hospitality team. Functions assistants support the operations manager, greeting guests, helping with luggage, as well as setting up rooms for functions. We require staff who could work during the day but would also be available to work during the night when required.

:KLOVW\RXGRQ·WQHHGWRKDYHSUHYLRXVH[SHULHQFH\RXGRQHHGWREHPRWLYDWHGKDUGZRUNLQJDQGHQWKXVLDVWLF DQGSRVVHVVH[WUHPHO\KLJKVWDQGDUGV6RLI\RXDUHORRNLQJWRJHWEDFNLQWRWKHZRUNSODFHRUDUHORRNLQJIRUD part time job working with a lovely friendly team, look no further.

,QDGGLWLRQWREHEHLQJDEHDXWLIXOSODFHWRZRUNZHRIIHUDFRPSHWLWLYHVDODU\DQGH[WUDEHQHÀWV WRWKHULJKWDSSOLFDQWV,I\RXZRXOGOLNHWRÀQGRXWPRUHDERXWZRUNLQJZLWKRXU+RXVHNHHSLQJ team, please contact [email protected].

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Maidstone March 2019 45 ddoowwnnssmmaaiill..ccoo..uukk downsmail.co.uk

study separately from non-S106 money. sided, often ill-informed, rhetoric regards difficult when the schools finish. C C C o m e n

o m e n If that is not the case and what I am Brexit? In Leicester, the charge for the Park and o m e n hearing is wrong, MBC should have no He writes: “I think the majority of voters Ride is £3. Those with a bus pass only pay DDooccttoorrss wwoonn’’tt sseeee yyoouu nnooww,, ssiirr difficulty in denying such an offer. see this as a time for national pride.” £1 to park, the ride is free. Perhaps MBC says it seeks clarity. I think it is Polls now favour a large majority in something along those lines could be tried WHEN requesting an appointment to so many by so few.” because they want the clarity that the favour of remaining. Less national pride, to save such a valuable service. The traffic t t WHEN requesting an appointment to so many by so few.” t wwiitthhaaGGPP,,yyoouummaayynnoowwbbeeaaddvviisseeddttoo IIaammaammoonnggmmaannyywwhhooaaddmmiirreessoommee highway mitigation provisions contained more international joke. in Maidstone is outrageous, MBC needs to sseeeeaannootthheerrqquuaalliififieeddmmeemmbbeerroofftthhee MMaaiillMMaarrkkss rreemmaarrkkaabblleeqquuaalliittiieessiinnoouurrPPrriimmee in the Local Plan supersedes the I would like you to put a stop to his start solving the problem and encourage discretionary powers of the statutory remarks, or at least print the other side of ssuurrggeerryytteeaamm((DDoowwnnssMMaaiillffeeaattuurree,, DDEENNNNIISSFFOOWWLLEE PPrreessiiddeenntt MMiinniisstteerr,,bbuuttsshheeiisstthheelleeaaddeerroofftthhiiss us to visit and shop before it is too late. February). How should you react? “few” submerged by fear over the last highway authority. It has everything to do the story. February). How should you react? ddeennnniissffoowwllee2288@@ggmmaaiill..ccoomm “few” submerged by fear over the last Ann Jackson, Allington IInnssiisstt––aannddyyoouuwwiillllaallmmoossttcceerrttaaiinnllyy tthhrreeeeyyeeaarrssaannddnnoottbbeenneefifittssoofflleeaavviinnggaa with MBC trying to supersede the Paul Coage, via email bbeeggiivveennaaGGPPaappppooiinnttmmeenntt..BBuuttccuurrrreenntt ffaaiilliinnggEEUUaannddddrriivviinnggaannddoorrggaanniissiinnggffoorr statutory authority of KCC as the ddeellaayyssmmaayyccoonncceerrnnyyoouu.. hheellpprreedduucceepprreessssuurreettootthheeoovveerraallll eexxcciittiinnggcchhaalllleennggeessooffooppppoorrttuunniittyysseeeenn highways body. Come clean on health cuts Our most significant requirement of benefit for all patients and GPs. by the people. If only… If residents were to look at the grounds Join fight for our wildlife Our most significant requirement of benefit for all patients and GPs. by the people. If only… I read with absolute dismay the small GPs is diagnostics and at a time when I believe I can. My GP would like me She has made so many mistakes and that MBC is seeking to argue in the High GPs is diagnostics and at a time when I believe I can. My GP would like me She has made so many mistakes and WILDLIFE in Kent is in trouble – too article regarding a possible cut to the we are short of doctors (especially in to have a blood test about every three lost the trust of just about everybody. Court, they will see that MBC we are short of doctors (especially in to have a blood test about every three lost the trust of just about everybody. many species are in decline and at risk of provision of the vasectomy service in the Kent), we need to maximise availability months and I see her for an assessment She has been driven by remainer cabinet acknowledges that land adjoining the Kent), we need to maximise availability months and I see her for an assessment She has been driven by remainer cabinet extinction. Habitats are being lost, West Kent CCG area. of this vital skill for all patients in all of results. But I suspect another member members and put remainer civil servants A274 is fixed as the main area for urban of this vital skill for all patients in all of results. But I suspect another member members and put remainer civil servants damaged and fragmented at a terrifying Over the years, since the CCGs took surgeries. of the surgery team can give an expert in charge of negotiating an appalling growth and there were to be two highway surgeries. of the surgery team can give an expert in charge of negotiating an appalling rate, and there isn’t enough space or over their functions, there have been many We are used to making GP assessment and refer me to my GP only withdrawal agreement which is both a mitigation works to address the impact of We are used to making GP assessment and refer me to my GP only withdrawal agreement which is both a resources for wildlife to survive. stories, claims and rumours as to the cuts appointments without questioning, but if necessary. This is just one small surrender document to the EU and a development. appointments without questioning, but if necessary. This is just one small surrender document to the EU and a The government has commi�ed to and limitations placed on health services this may well not apply in future. example. remainers’ charter. Part of this requires the widening of this may well not apply in future. example. remainers’ charter. creating a new Environment Act this year in West Kent. RReecceeppttiioonniissttssaarreebbeeiinnggttrraaiinneeddttoo OOtthheerrttiimmee--ssaavviinnggooppttiioonnssaarree DDiiddtthhiissssmmaallllccootteerriieeooffpplloo��iinngg Su�on Road at its junction with Willington and for the first time in the last 20 years, request our reasons and, if appropriate, becoming available too. GPs increasingly remainers really expect to fool all the Street, a scheme rejected by the Joint Can the group come clean and clarify request our reasons and, if appropriate, becoming available too. GPs increasingly remainers really expect to fool all the this is an opportunity to create a wilder exactly which services it has closed since invite us to see initially another speak to patients on the telephone or by people all the time? Transportation Board, consisting of 50% nation for future generations. invite us to see initially another speak to patients on the telephone or by people all the time? the demise of the Primary Care Trusts and professional instead. Skype or FaceTime. This saves what can No wonder the EU is now furious. KCC and 50% MBC membership. That’s why I’m standing alongside Kent professional instead. Skype or FaceTime. This saves what can No wonder the EU is now furious. give details of the extent where there have This could be, for example, a practice be long, difficult, time-consuming and With co-operation from the plo�ers, it Notwithstanding this rejection, MBC Wildlife Trust in calling on our local MPs This could be, for example, a practice be long, difficult, time-consuming and With co-operation from the plo�ers, it been limitations of these services? nurse, physiotherapist, paramedic or expensive journeys for patients too. thought it was ge�ing most of its own presses ahead trying to get the High Court to back a strong Environment Act. nurse, physiotherapist, paramedic or expensive journeys for patients too. thought it was ge�ing most of its own No spin please, just fact. clinical pharmacist. Such help or advice We are in a time of very big changes in way. to effectively approve what elected Our new Environment Act needs to clinical pharmacist. Such help or advice We are in a time of very big changes in way. Tony Monk, Westerhill Road, Coxheath iisslliikkeellyyttoobbeeaavvaaiillaabblleemmuucchhmmoorree oouurrGGPPssuurrggeerriieess.. TThheePPrriimmeeMMiinniisstteerrhhaassssiiddeelliinneeddttoo councillors have already rejected. ensure that politicians are answerable to qquuiicckkllyy.. eexxttiinnccttiioonnttwwooBBrreexxiittmmiinniisstteerrssaanndd But not only that, the papers state that meaningful targets for nature’s recovery. It Brexit saga the claimant (MBC) requires “the IItthhiinnkktthheeNNHHSSiissmmaakkiinnggtthheerriigghhtt Brexit saga bbuulllliieeddaannddbbuullllddoozzeeddtthhrroouugghhaattbbootthh needs to set in place new legal Plagued by stink bugs ddeecciissiioonn,,bbuuttiittiissnnoottddaannggeerrffrreeee.. ....... H H o oppeeffuullllyy,,tthheepprroolloonnggeeddBBrreexxiittssaaggaa CChheeqquueerrssaannddtthheessuubbsseeqquueennttddeecciissiioonn-- additional inbound carriageway to have requirements to create a “Nature Recovery MMaannyysseeeeaacclloosseerreellaattiioonnsshhiippwwiitthh iissddrraawwiinnggttooaacclloossee..IIkknnoowwtthhaattiisstthhee mmaakkiinnggmmeeeettiinnggtthheewwiitthhddrraawwaall some bus prioritisation measures Network” that will allow wildlife to move YOUR article on Stink Bugs (Downs Mail tthheeiirroowwnnGGPPaassiimmppoorrttaannttaanndd wwiisshhooffssoommaannyyDDoowwnnssMMaaiillrreeaaddeerrss,, aaggrreeeemmeennttwwiitthhoouuttaalllloowwiinngghheerrffuullll comprising dedicated bus use of the new more freely around our landscape. And we February 2019) is a most interesting ccoommffoorrttiinngg,,aannddwweettaallkkttootthheemmffrreeeellyy.. eessppeecciiaallllyybbuussiinneessssppeeooppllee,,aappppaalllleeddbbyy ccaabbiinneettpprrooppeerrttiimmeeffoorrrreeqquuiirreeddddeettaaiilleedd carriageway between appropriate hours need our new law to put in place a strong, subject for me because I first noticed them TThheeyyggeettttookknnoowwuusswweellll,,rreeaaddoouurr tthheewwaayyiittiissbbeeiinngghhaannddlleeddbbootthhbbyyoouurr ccoonnssiiddeerraattiioonnooffaavviittaallaannddccoommpplleexx550000-- (7.30am and 9.30am) with the new independent watchdog that can challenge on my apartment walls as far back as 2014. mmiinnddssaannddffaacceess,,ppiicckkuuppoonnllii��lleecclluueess ppoolliittiicciiaannssaannddtthheeEEUU.. pplluussppaaggeelleeggaallddooccuummeenntt.. carriageway then being made available for decisions that are damaging to nature. One was caught and I visited the aannddccaanntteellllwwhheenntthhiinnggssnneeeedd MMaaiiddssttoonnee((5588%%)),,KKeennttaannddtthheeUUKK SShheewwaanntteedd,,ttoooo,,ttoobbyyppaassssaa other traffic at all other times”. I encourage all of us to join Kent museum in Maidstone for help to identify iinnvveessttiiggaattiinnggoorraaddvviicceesshhoouullddbbee vvootteeddffoorrBBrreexxiittaannddMMeemmbbeerrssooff PPaarrlliiaammeennttsshheesshhoouullddhhaavveeiinnvvoollvveedd Councillors at the JTB have been Wildlife Trust’s campaign at it. I was told that there was nothing ooffffeerreedd.. PPaarrlliiaammeenntttthheennkkeeppttvvoottiinnggppoowweerrffuullllyy mmoonntthhssaaggoo––bbuutttthhaatthhaassnnoowwaapppplliieeddaa assured that bus prioritisation was not a kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/EnvironmentAct. available to help with its presence. TThheerreemmuussttnnooffrriieennddllyyddiivvoorrccee ttoohhoonnoouurrtthheerreeffeerreenndduummddeecciissiioonn..BBuutt mmaassssiivveevveettoo..SShheewwoouullddlliikkeennoowwttoo bus lane. I respect Cllr Wilson and believe Ed Charles, Muir Road, Maidstone So, over the years, it is very unpleasant bbeettwweeeennGGPPssaannddppaattiieennttss,,eessppeecciiaallllyy ttoooommaannyyMMPPsshhaavveessiinncceeffaaiilleedduuss..TThheerree rreessttrriiccttiimmppoosseeddcchhaannggeessttootthheeIIrriisshh that she and many of her colleagues are living where one cannot have the tthhoosseeiinnvvuullnneerraabblleeaaggeeggrroouuppss..IIttwwiillllbbee ccoouullddbbeeoonnllyyoonneerreeffeerreenndduummwwiinnnneerr–– bbaacckkssttoopp.. BBuuttIItthhiinnkkBBrreexxiitteeeerrMMPPsswwiillll well-meaning, but when anyone seeks to windows open. aaddeelliiccaatteebbaallaanncciinnggaaccttwwhhiicchhnneeeeddss aannddIIffuummeewwhheennIIhheeaarrssoommeeMMPPssssaayy ddeemmaannddvveerryyvviittaallcchhaannggeessoonnttooppoofftthhaatt.. tell the truth, maybe it should be the truth, Act to save Park and Ride We are surrounded by old conifer trees, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. ccaarreeffuullccoonnssiiddeerraattiioonn.. eevveennnnoowwtthheewwiisshheessoofftthheelloosseerrssmmuusstt BBeellaatteeddllyytthheewwiilllloofftthheeppeeoopplleesseeeemmss THE idea of local buses taking on the Park so I am wondering what a�racts the bugs. Gary Cooke, Kent County Councillor for IItthhiinnkk,,hhoowweevveerr,,tthhaattmmaannyywwiillllaaggrreeee bbeehhoonnoouurreeddttoooo.. ttoobbeeggee��iinngghhoommeettoommoorreeMMPPss..IIssttiillll and Ride has been tried. By the time the 71 The outside of our apartment is, in parts, Maidstone South East GGPPssaarreennoottnneecceessssaarriillyyoouurrfifirrssttppoorrttooff TToommiissqquuootteeWWiinnssttoonnCChhuurrcchhiillll:: rreeccooggnniisseemmuucchhllooccaallooppttiimmiissmm––bbuutt or 72 arrived at the Allington Park and painted white and they seem to only ccaallllaattaassuurrggeerryyaannddwweeccaannsseennssiibbllyy ““NNeevveerrhhaassssoommuucchhddaammaaggeebbeeeennddoonnee wwhhaattaannaawwffuulljjoouurrnneeyy.. Ride from the Larkfield direction, all the plague us. Maybe this is the problem. downstairs seats were taken and older It would be very interesting if an expert Brexit opinion ‘one-sided’ could give some advice as to elimination. ccoonntteennddeeddiittwwaassaammaa��eerrooffiinnssuuffifficciieenntt aaggrreeeemmeennttffrroommtthheeddeevveellooppeerrsswwhhooppaaiidd people waiting could not board as they MMyy vviieeww oonn ccoouurrtt aaccttiioonn I WILL keep this short. Why have you could not manage the stairs. Doreen Giovanelli, St Luke’s Avenue, wwiillllrraatthheerrtthhaanniinnssuuffifficciieennttttiimmee!! tthhiissmmoonneeyytthhaattiittccoouullddbbeeuusseeddffoorrtthhiiss RREECCllllrrFFrraannWWiillssoonn’’ssllee��eerr““FFaaccttssbbeehhiinndd The evidence was there for a relief road, purpose. Cllr Wilson also overlooks that made a platform for Dennis Fowle’s one- Using the local buses in the afternoon is Maidstone legal action”, it is one view and, sadly, The evidence was there for a relief road, purpose. Cllr Wilson also overlooks that legal action”, it is one view and, sadly, bbuuttMMBBCCcchhoosseettooiiggnnoorreeiittaannddffuunnddeeddtthhee tthhiissaaggrreeeemmeennttwwaassppllaacceeddiinnttootthheeppuubblliicc indicates a worryingly selective memory. indicates a worryingly selective memory. aalltteerrnnaattiivveebbuuttrreessttrriicctteeddssuurrvveeyybbyyMMoo�� ddoommaaiinnwwhheenniittwwaassrreeppoorrtteeddttootthheeJJooiinntt Years ago, Cllr Wilson a�ended a Years ago, Cllr Wilson a�ended a MMccDDoonnaallddttoossuubbssttaannttiiaatteetthheevviieewwtthhaattaallll TTrraannssppoorrttaattiioonnBBooaarrdd.. transportation meeting when she claimed transportation meeting when she claimed tthhaattwwaassrreeqquuiirreeddwwaassssoommeejjuunnccttiioonn NNoottoonnllyytthhaatt,,bbuuttaatttthheefifirrsstthheeaarriinnggiinn there was insufficient time to include there was insufficient time to include iimmpprroovveemmeennttss,,aannddaanneewwbbuussllaanneeaalloonngg tthheeHHiigghhCCoouurrtttthheeeemmiinneennttjjuuddggee,,MMrrss provision for a Leeds Langley relief road provision for a Leeds Langley relief road tthheeSSuu��oonnRRooaadd..IIttsseeeemmsstthhaattMMBBCC JJuussttiicceeLLaannggssaaiidd::““IInnmmyyvviieeww,,tthhee in the Local Plan for more housing. in the Local Plan for more housing. rreemmaaiinnssiirrrreevvooccaabbllyywweeddddeeddttoo““mmooddaall ccllaaiimmaanntthhaassnnoottpprreesseenntteeddaarrgguuaabbllee She also failed to recall how, as part of She also failed to recall how, as part of sshhiifftt””aasstthheessoolluuttiioonnttoooouurrttrraaffifficciillllss..IIttiiss ggrroouunnddsstthhaatttthheeddeeffeennddaanntt’’ssddeecciissiioonnwwaass the local plan process, that Kent County the local plan process, that Kent County aakkiinnttoottaakkiinnggaannaassppiirriinnttooccuurreeccaanncceerr.. uunnllaawwffuull..TThheeddeeffeennddaannttiissaaccttiinngg Council and Maidstone Borough Council Council and Maidstone Borough Council RReeggaarrddiinnggtthheeffuunnddiinnggoofftthheeccuurrrreenntt ppuurrssuuaannttttooiittssssttaattuuttoorryyppoowweerrss..”” jjooiinnttllyyccoommmmiissssiioonneeddAAmmeeyyttoopprroovviiddeeaann rreelliieeffrrooaaddffeeaassiibbiilliittyyssttuuddyywwiitthh££220000,,000000 OOnnaappppeeaall,,aaddeeppuuttyyHHiigghhCCoouurrttjjuuddggee iimmppaaccttssttuuddyyoonnaaddddiittiioonnaallhhoouussiinngg.. tthhaatttthheehhiigghhwwaayyaauutthhoorriittyy((KKCCCC))ttooookk tthhrreewwoouutttthhrreeeeoofftthheeggrroouunnddsstthhaattMMBBCC AAmmeeyy’’ssrreeppoorrttssttaatteeddttrraaffifficcccoonnggeessttiioonn ffrroommddeevveellooppeerrccoonnttrriibbuuttiioonnssSS110066mmoonniieess wwaassaarrgguuiinngg,,bbuutttthheeccoouunncciillwwaassggiivveenn iinnssoouutthheeaassttMMaaiiddssttoonneewwaassaammoonnggtthhee ((ddeessiiggnneeddffoorrhhiigghhwwaayyppuurrppoosseess))aanndd lleeaavveettoorreevviisseetthheerreemmaaiinniinnggtthhrreeee wwoorrsstttthheeooffifficceerrhhaaddsseeeennaannyywwhheerreeiinntthhee wwhhiicchhiisssseeeemmiinnggllyytthheerreeaassoonnffoorrMMBBCC’’ss aarrgguuaabblleeggrroouunnddssttoobbeehheeaarrddiinnMMaarrcchh.. ccoouunnttrryy..TThheeooffifficceerriinnddiiccaatteeddiittwwaass HHiigghhCCoouurrttaaccttiioonnaaggaaiinnssttKKCCCC,,CCllllrr IIfftthheerreeiissaawwiisshhttoorreessoollvveetthheemmaa��eerrooff AAmmeeyy’’ssvviieewwaarreelliieeffrrooaaddccoouullddrreedduuccee WWiillssoonniimmpplliieesstthhaatttthheeuusseeoofftthhiissmmoonneeyy tthhee££220000,,000000,,mmaayybbeeMMBBCCmmiigghhttbbee ttrraaffifficcflfloowwssaalloonnggtthheeSSuu��oonnRRooaaddbbyyaass wwaassaauunniillaatteerraallddeecciissiioonnoonntthheeppaarrttoofftthhee pprreeppaarreeddttooccoommmmeennttoonnwwhhaattIIbbeelliieevveettoo mmuucchhaass2255%%.. hhiigghhwwaayyaauutthhoorriittyy.. bbeetthheeccaassee,,tthhaattoonnmmoorreetthhaannoonnee TThhaattwwaassoovveerrtthhrreeeeyyeeaarrssbbeeffoorreetthhee SShheeffaaiillssttoommeennttiioonniinn22001155tthhaattKKCCCC ooccccaassiioonnKKCCCChhaassooffffeerreeddttoorreeppaayytthhee ppllaannwwaassfifinnaalliisseeddaannddwwhhyyIIhhaavveeaallwwaayyss rreenneeggoottiiaatteedd,,ssoouugghhttaannddrreecceeiivveeddtthhee ££220000,,000000iinnffuullllaannddffuunnddtthheeffeeaassiibbiilliittyy

46 Maidstone March 2019 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk

study separately from non-S106 money. sided, often ill-informed, rhetoric regards difficult when the schools finish. C C If that is not the case and what I am Brexit? In Leicester, the charge for the Park and o m e n o m e n hearing is wrong, MBC should have no He writes: “I think the majority of voters Ride is £3. Those with a bus pass only pay Doctors won’t see you now, sir difficulty in denying such an offer. see this as a time for national pride.” £1 to park, the ride is free. Perhaps MBC says it seeks clarity. I think it is Polls now favour a large majority in something along those lines could be tried because they want the clarity that the favour of remaining. Less national pride, to save such a valuable service. The traffic WHEN requesting an appointment to so many by so few.” t t with a GP, you may now be advised to I am among many who admire some highway mitigation provisions contained more international joke. in Maidstone is outrageous, MBC needs to see another qualified member of the MailMarks remarkable qualities in our Prime in the Local Plan supersedes the I would like you to put a stop to his start solving the problem and encourage discretionary powers of the statutory remarks, or at least print the other side of surgery team (Downs Mail feature, DENNIS FOWLE President Minister, but she is the leader of this us to visit and shop before it is too late. highway authority. It has everything to do the story. February). How should you react? [email protected] “few” submerged by fear over the last Ann Jackson, Allington Insist – and you will almost certainly three years and not benefits of leaving a with MBC trying to supersede the Paul Coage, via email be given a GP appointment. But current failing EU and driving and organising for statutory authority of KCC as the delays may concern you. help reduce pressure to the overall exciting challenges of opportunity seen highways body. Come clean on health cuts If residents were to look at the grounds Join fight for our wildlife Our most significant requirement of benefit for all patients and GPs. by the people. If only… I read with absolute dismay the small GPs is diagnostics and at a time when I believe I can. My GP would like me She has made so many mistakes and that MBC is seeking to argue in the High WILDLIFE in Kent is in trouble – too Court, they will see that MBC article regarding a possible cut to the we are short of doctors (especially in to have a blood test about every three lost the trust of just about everybody. many species are in decline and at risk of provision of the vasectomy service in the Kent), we need to maximise availability months and I see her for an assessment She has been driven by remainer cabinet acknowledges that land adjoining the extinction. Habitats are being lost, A274 is fixed as the main area for urban West Kent CCG area. of this vital skill for all patients in all of results. But I suspect another member members and put remainer civil servants damaged and fragmented at a terrifying Over the years, since the CCGs took surgeries. of the surgery team can give an expert in charge of negotiating an appalling growth and there were to be two highway rate, and there isn’t enough space or mitigation works to address the impact of over their functions, there have been many We are used to making GP assessment and refer me to my GP only withdrawal agreement which is both a resources for wildlife to survive. stories, claims and rumours as to the cuts appointments without questioning, but if necessary. This is just one small surrender document to the EU and a development. The government has commi�ed to Part of this requires the widening of and limitations placed on health services this may well not apply in future. example. remainers’ charter. creating a new Environment Act this year in West Kent. Receptionists are being trained to Other time-saving options are Did this small coterie of plo�ing Su�on Road at its junction with Willington and for the first time in the last 20 years, Street, a scheme rejected by the Joint Can the group come clean and clarify request our reasons and, if appropriate, becoming available too. GPs increasingly remainers really expect to fool all the this is an opportunity to create a wilder exactly which services it has closed since Transportation Board, consisting of 50% nation for future generations. invite us to see initially another speak to patients on the telephone or by people all the time? the demise of the Primary Care Trusts and KCC and 50% MBC membership. That’s why I’m standing alongside Kent professional instead. Skype or FaceTime. This saves what can No wonder the EU is now furious. give details of the extent where there have Notwithstanding this rejection, MBC Wildlife Trust in calling on our local MPs This could be, for example, a practice be long, difficult, time-consuming and With co-operation from the plo�ers, it been limitations of these services? presses ahead trying to get the High Court to back a strong Environment Act. nurse, physiotherapist, paramedic or expensive journeys for patients too. thought it was ge�ing most of its own No spin please, just fact. to effectively approve what elected Our new Environment Act needs to clinical pharmacist. Such help or advice We are in a time of very big changes in way. Tony Monk, Westerhill Road, Coxheath is likely to be available much more our GP surgeries. The Prime Minister has sidelined to councillors have already rejected. ensure that politicians are answerable to quickly. extinction two Brexit ministers and But not only that, the papers state that meaningful targets for nature’s recovery. It the claimant (MBC) requires “the I think the NHS is making the right Brexit saga bullied and bulldozed through at both needs to set in place new legal Plagued by stink bugs decision, but it is not danger free. .... H opefully, the prolonged Brexit saga Chequers and the subsequent decision- additional inbound carriageway to have requirements to create a “Nature Recovery Many see a close relationship with is drawing to a close. I know that is the making meeting the withdrawal some bus prioritisation measures Network” that will allow wildlife to move YOUR article on Stink Bugs (Downs Mail their own GP as important and wish of so many Downs Mail readers, agreement without allowing her full comprising dedicated bus use of the new more freely around our landscape. And we February 2019) is a most interesting comforting, and we talk to them freely. especially business people, appalled by cabinet proper time for required detailed carriageway between appropriate hours need our new law to put in place a strong, subject for me because I first noticed them They get to know us well, read our the way it is being handled both by our consideration of a vital and complex 500- (7.30am and 9.30am) with the new independent watchdog that can challenge on my apartment walls as far back as 2014. minds and faces, pick up on li�le clues politicians and the EU. plus page legal document. carriageway then being made available for decisions that are damaging to nature. One was caught and I visited the and can tell when things need Maidstone (58%), Kent and the UK She wanted, too, to bypass a other traffic at all other times”. I encourage all of us to join Kent museum in Maidstone for help to identify investigating or advice should be voted for Brexit and Members of Parliament she should have involved Councillors at the JTB have been Wildlife Trust’s campaign at it. I was told that there was nothing offered. Parliament then kept voting powerfully months ago – but that has now applied a assured that bus prioritisation was not a kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/EnvironmentAct. available to help with its presence. There must no friendly divorce to honour the referendum decision. But massive veto. She would like now to bus lane. I respect Cllr Wilson and believe Ed Charles, Muir Road, Maidstone So, over the years, it is very unpleasant between GPs and patients, especially too many MPs have since failed us. There restrict imposed changes to the Irish that she and many of her colleagues are living where one cannot have the those in vulnerable age groups. It will be could be only one referendum winner – backstop. But I think Brexiteer MPs will well-meaning, but when anyone seeks to windows open. a delicate balancing act which needs and I fume when I hear some MPs say demand very vital changes on top of that. tell the truth, maybe it should be the truth, Act to save Park and Ride We are surrounded by old conifer trees, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. careful consideration. even now the wishes of the losers must Belatedly the will of the people seems THE idea of local buses taking on the Park so I am wondering what a�racts the bugs. Gary Cooke, Kent County Councillor for I think, however, that many will agree be honoured too. to be ge�ing home to more MPs. I still and Ride has been tried. By the time the 71 The outside of our apartment is, in parts, Maidstone South East GPs are not necessarily our first port of To misquote Winston Churchill: recognise much local optimism – but or 72 arrived at the Allington Park and painted white and they seem to only call at a surgery and we can sensibly “Never has so much damage been done what an awful journey. Ride from the Larkfield direction, all the plague us. Maybe this is the problem. downstairs seats were taken and older It would be very interesting if an expert Brexit opinion ‘one-sided’ could give some advice as to elimination. contended it was a ma�er of insufficient agreement from the developers who paid people waiting could not board as they My view on court action I WILL keep this short. Why have you could not manage the stairs. Doreen Giovanelli, St Luke’s Avenue, will rather than insufficient time! this money that it could be used for this made a platform for Dennis Fowle’s one- Using the local buses in the afternoon is Maidstone RE Cllr Fran Wilson’s le�er “Facts behind The evidence was there for a relief road, purpose. Cllr Wilson also overlooks that legal action”, it is one view and, sadly, but MBC chose to ignore it and funded the this agreement was placed into the public indicates a worryingly selective memory. alternative but restricted survey by Mo� domain when it was reported to the Joint Years ago, Cllr Wilson a�ended a McDonald to substantiate the view that all Transportation Board. The five editions of the Downs Mail are delivered to 90% of households in the Maidstone and Malling area, transportation meeting when she claimed that was required was some junction Not only that, but at the first hearing in there was insufficient time to include improvements, and a new bus lane along the High Court the eminent judge, Mrs reaching over 190, 000 readers every month. provision for a Leeds Langley relief road the Su�on Road. It seems that MBC Justice Lang said: “In my view, the in the Local Plan for more housing. remains irrevocably wedded to “modal claimant has not presented arguable Maidstone North Maidstone South Maidstone East Maidstone Weald Malling She also failed to recall how, as part of shift” as the solution to our traffic ills. It is grounds that the defendant’s decision was Current and archived editions are also free to read online at the local plan process, that Kent County akin to taking an aspirin to cure cancer. unlawful. The defendant is acting Council and Maidstone Borough Council Regarding the funding of the current pursuant to its statutory powers.” www.downsmail.co.uk jointly commissioned Amey to provide an relief road feasibility study with £200,000 On appeal, a deputy High Court judge impact study on additional housing. that the highway authority (KCC) took threw out three of the grounds that MBC Contact our teams…. Amey’s report stated traffic congestion from developer contributions S106 monies was arguing, but the council was given Editorial Sales Accounts Dept. in south east Maidstone was among the Editor: (designed for highway purposes) and leave to revise the remaining three Simon Finlay Sales Manager: Bill Brett [email protected] worst the officer had seen anywhere in the which is seemingly the reason for MBC’s arguable grounds to be heard in March. Simon.fi[email protected] 01622 630330 ext 229 country. The officer indicated it was High Court action against KCC, Cllr If there is a wish to resolve the ma�er of 01622 734735 [email protected] Mail Publications Ltd Amey’s view a relief road could reduce Wilson implies that the use of this money the £200,000, maybe MBC might be 01622 630330 ext. 221 Deputy editor: Doug Kempster Forge House traffic flows along the Su�on Road by as was a unilateral decision on the part of the prepared to comment on what I believe to [email protected] Advertising Sales Enquiry: much as 25%. highway authority. be the case, that on more than one Bearsted Green Business Park 01622 734735 01622 630330 option 1 That was over three years before the She fails to mention in 2015 that KCC occasion KCC has offered to repay the Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT plan was finalised and why I have always renegotiated, sought and received the £200,000 in full and fund the feasibility

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