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October 2017 No.Maidstone 246 & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper News June 3rd - June 16th downsmail.co.uk No. 296 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- people’sNews home in Bearsted, stone, took to the River Medway to has died aged 107, her son 3 Calumlaunch this year's follows panto. David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were Navynational treasure dream Rustie Lee (Fairy SPOTLIGHT ON FORMERGodmother), Cornwallis former Academy EastEnder pupil Ste- MP’s Local Plan bid Calumfan Booth Godden (Prince has joinedCharming), the Royal Eliza- HELENWEST Whately MALLING asked the Navybeth and Bright completed (Cinderella), basic training. Craig governmentPages to halt 14 the & 15 AndersonCalum (18) (Buttons) worked in and, retail pictured, after borough’s housing scheme. 4 schoolStephen but Richardsnow he is an and engineering Adam Bor- technicianzone (Ugly after Sisters) being . accepted as Medical helpers a traineeThey were on HMS greeted Collingwood. by pupils from PlansTHE chronic for pain Dr unit Nigel at SouthHe said: Borough “It’s my Primary dream School job. My and THEMaidstone widow ofHospital GP Dr Nigelhas raised Minnet familymembers history of is the in media.the services The with panto willmore walk than the £16,000 Grand for a relativesruns from serving December during 1-31.WWII. For tick- Canyonmedical for facility charity. in India. 12 ets“I’ve go to made www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. friends for life and à5 learnt skills I never thought I would. My shipmates are a second family.” JasonElmer Donovan volunteers date THEORGANISERS former Neighbours behind star the brings Heart hisof showKent toHospice the Hazlitt Elmer parade Theatreare seeking next May. volunteers to 18 CCTV call in a bid help out. à6 Killer ‘out too soon’ Woodcut jobs THE seven-year sentence handed out to the killer of Maidstone man AN AERIAL image shows how the Woodcut Farm develop- Jasonto Orwin stop last summer has fly-tipping been dismissed as “totally inadequate”. ment, which is set to create hundreds of jobs, will The 55-year-old business devel- Colston also assaulted Mr CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a look once completed. opment manager sustained fatal Orwin’s friend, hitting him with a à8 headcountry injuries road in an unprovoked have been at- made by the local boroughmilk councillor. bottle, and tried to punch the tackBurberry just yards Lane, from near his Leeds parents’ and nearby, more than a year after it unlicensedvictim’s father. waste carriers, but be- Obituaries à35 homeBroomfield, in Bower has Place been on targeted July 31. by was dumped and set on fire. lievesMr theOrwin cost todied small in firmshospital of dis-the wasteMurder dumpers charges for years,were dropped but in re- The church car park has also seen posingnext day. of construction waste at a ObituariesParishes à3237 againstcent months, Lance theColston problem (36), hasa resi- be- many instances of illegal dumping. transferCllr Purle station added: is proving “I appreciate a deter- dentcome at more the Fleming acute. House bail hos- But it is a problem in many rural rentthe thatcourt is is costing bound councils by sentencing more. ParishComment Councils à 34-3545-47 telConstruction in Tonbridge waste, Road, rubble, after hard he areas including Langley, Otham guidelines,Cllr Fort madebut this her sentence remarks feels as pleadedcore, windows guilty andto householdmanslaughter fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in onetotally of theinadequate borough’s for closest the taking trans- of ASH dieback has been discovered in Jason Orwin and killer Lance Colston Monks Meadow in Detling; backniture in is December left illegally last – year. often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have fera life stations and the at devastation North Farm, he Tun- has Mosque donors inFriend the middle and oflocal the road.Conservative alsoOrwin been was targeted out with recently. a friend when bridgecaused. Wells, announced it will be Hollingbourne village fete stall- THE Imam has thanked cash councillorCllr Gill FortJonathan said:“Every Purle monthsaid: theyLast noticed year, Maidstonetwo men who Borough ap- closed“The for judge’s 10 weeks. conclusion that Col- holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has resigned;donors who yellow are lines helping are toneeded fund “Lancewe are Colston having should toilets, never sinks have and Councilpeared to cleared be drunk. 911 cases Mr ofOrwin’s fly-tip- stonShe is added: not a ‘dangerous “If you go alongoffender’ the for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow beenconstruction there to wastekill Jason. dumped in the pingpartner and was this nearby year moreand he than warned 163 linewill of feel increasing perverse fines, to most they havereason- to Maidstone’s new buses through Imperial Park; rub- village,“He had specifically been let out inof prison Burberry far haveher to beenbe wary recorded of the pair. since April. beable enforced. people.” A reduction in the mosque. à12 bish bins in the sports field in tooLane, early. where He was we arejust nowoff Tonbridge thinking TheColston approaching overheard darker this evenings and chargeColston or offering had two it freeprevious may havecon- Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private willcrossed prompt the aroad rise into illegal confront tipping. Mr the desired similar effect.” Road because that’s where the au- victions for violence in a long crim- theCrops picnic areahit andby rearfrost exit. OrwinCllr Fort and welcomedpunched him a joint across initia- the thoritiesland, to overseechose to the place problem him.” area.” inalA three-monthlycareer. litter pick on the FRUIT farmers are expecting a A recent event in Burberry Lane tivehead, by knocking the Environment him unconscious. Agency On the night of the attack, Mr mile-longSenior Investigating stretch of road Officer through DCI Crimeshort season Reports this summer caused 35 saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- LeedsNeil Kimber village producessaid Colston an averageshowed by a cold, unseasonally torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 black sacks of rubbish. VEHICLES have been driven over no concern for the welfare of his dry April. à21 victimCllr Fort,as he wholay unconscious. also serves as a farmland in Lenham, causing parishDCI Kimber councillor, added: says “A teachingfamily is damge to crops; an attempted break-in was reported in ; a childrennow mourning about social their responsibility tragic loss. I Castle ‘staycation’Detling bid andwould the issuelike to of thank litter inthe schools witnesses will vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted help take the issue off the streets. Rd,A ‘STAYCATION’ Weavering; pumpkinssummer is were and, in particular, members of Mr needed for Leeds Castle to refill SheOrwin’s believes family with who every have household assisted stolen from an allotment in its coffers. after the COVID-19 YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivingus throughout a weekly the refuse investigation collection Lenham service, there is no excuse for litter pandemic, says its new [email protected] and enabled us to bring this violent boss. à beingindividual thrown to justice.” from vehicles or Comment 46-4728 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. Home Alarms supplied and fitted Roo ng and Gu ering Experts Contact Thomas visitcovering www.amiga.co.uk Maidstone and Kent.or call 08000 19962207832 739424 Esablished since 1998 . see our Main advert on Page 17 11-12 Liberty Square Kings Hill, West Malling ME19 4AU
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Turmeric Square Turmeric Gold 11-12 Liberty Square Kings Hill, West Malling ME19 4AU Crockhurst Street, Tudeley, Tonbridge TN11 0NT 01732 521777 [email protected] 01732 361772 - [email protected] www.turmericsquare.com www.turmericgold.com 2 downsmail.co.uk News Face to face Mayor Fay ‘harbours with your GP FACE-to-face appointments across Maidstone and the rest of Kent are now almost back to pre COVID-19 Maidstone in her soul’ levels – and patients will be seen by health professionals. COUNCILLOR Fay Gooch has imagined that after 13 years of But to make sure patients get the been formally sworn in as Mayor being the borough councillor for right care from the right profes- of Maidstone, writes Jade Schop- what is now called Barming and sional quickly, the triage system man. Teston, I would be given the op- will remain in place. Cllr Gooch (pictured), who has portunity to become Mayor of Dr Navin Kumta, clinical chair- lived in Maidstone for over 46 Maidstone. man of the NHS budget-holding years, previously served as “This is an incredible honour Kent and Medway Clinical Com- deputy mayor after taking over and privilege for me. I especially missioning Group, says over the role from Cllr Wendy Hinder want everyone to know that 450,000 patients in Kent and Med- who died last year. Maidstone is open for business way had a face-to-face appointment Cllr Steve Munford said the and to help promote retailers, in- with a healthcare professional at a mother of two was “born for the dustrial organisations across the GP practice in March, almost back role” and joked she had spent borough be they large or small, to the level before the pandemic. “most of her life in a town hall”. whilst supporting entrepreneurs Cllr John Perry described Cllr looking to start up their own busi- Gooch as “one of the most posi- nesses. Museum times tive people you will ever meet” “My year as mayor would not MAIDSTONE Museum has whilst former leader Cllr Martin the London Borough of be complete without warmly changed its opening times. Cox said she “harbours Maid- Lewisham and later joined KCC thanking our wonderful volun- Most of the time it will open from stone in her very soul”. at what used to be Sandling Block teers and doing what I can to help 10am to 4pm, Wednesdays to Sat- Cllr Gooch, who has spent Springfield. revitalise the coffers of our volun- urdays. From July 26 to August 28 much of her working life in local Cllr Gooch said her new role is tary and charitable organisations and during school holidays (ex- government, joined Barming an “incredible honour and privi- through fundraising.” cluding bank holidays), the mu- Parish Council in 1997 and has lege” after 13 years as a borough Cllr Gooch is married to Peter seum will also be open on Mondays been chairman since 2002. councillor. with two children and four and Tuesdays. It closes from De- She started her working life at She added: “I could not have grandchildren. cember 18 to mid February.
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3 News downsmail.co.uk Road closures A BUSY road in Maidstone is due MPs ‘cutting aid to poor to re-open on July 12. Plains Avenue shut on May 24 for three weeks between A229 Loose Road to outside number 4 Plains Avenue. while lining their nests’ Marion Crescent closed from May 24 for six weeks at the junc- A LEADING Kent churchman has launched a vitriolic attack on the tion with Plains Avenue. The cycle track from Plains Av- Government for cutting overseas aid. enue to South Park Road closed on May 31 for one week. Canon John Corbyn, the vicar at "This cut has been made at a The closures are required while the Holy Cross church in Bearsted, time when we should be more gas main replacement works are said it is "ironical" that political fig- aware than ever that we live in a undertaken by SGN. ures are "lining their own nests" world village. A virus from one while slashing help to the world's part has affected the whole globe. poorest. “Just now, our own efforts to de- Portillo visit Writing in the Bearsted and feat COVID-19 could be under- TORY MP turned TV star Michael Thurnham parish magazine, mined if, left rampant in other Portillo paid a visit to Leeds Cas- Canon Corbyn said that the UK parts of the world, the virus mu- tle in an episode of Great British once pledged 0.7% of the gross na- tates in a way which defeats our Railway Journeys. tional product to overseas aid, but current vaccines. If it arrives on our The former MP, who hosts a this had been reduced by a third. shores it could take us back to popular programme on Times In an ill-disguised swipe at par- square one – a terrifying prospect. Radio, explored the legacy of its liamentarians, he adds: "It is quite "We can leave India and Brazil to last private owner Lady Olive ironical (some might think tragic or their own devices but, in doing so, Baillie. wicked) that politicians should cut "And on top of this they appar- we might reap a terrible harvest.” The episode was filmed during help to the poorest people in the ently feel no need to account to MP for Bearsted and Govern- the last lockdown and aired on world at the time whilst, quite lit- electors and taxpayers for the ne- ment minister for social care, BBC Two at 6.30pm on May 21. erally, lining their own nests at cessity of spending such amounts Helen Whately, was approached public expense. on one of their two or more homes. for a comment. Shopping bus THE Kingswood Shopping Bus scheme is due to return on June 16. MP demands action on re safety A 16-seater bus will run every Wednesday and Friday and will be MAIDSTONE and Weald MP tower block office conversion fective building and they can- offered on a first come first served Helen Grant is pressing Gov- were first occupied she has not sell their properties. It was basis. ernment ministers “as a matter been helping residents resolve built almost 50 years ago as an A return ticket costs £4. To re- of urgency” to try to solve the a range of unsatisfactory issues office block and converted to serve a place call Hayley on potential fire problems agonis- with fire safety at the top. apartments in the last few 07719317702 or 01622 474190. ing residents of Miller Heights She said: “The problem is not years. in Lower Stone Street, Maid- with combustible cladding, as The managing agents for the Bloom date stone. at Grenfell Tower but a report building believe Government She is supporting residents has identified the need for a funding for such work could MARDEN in Bloom organisers “in seeking a satisfactory out- cavity barrier installation to now be available, have made an will hold an annual general meet- come” and pressing for Gov- prevent the rapid spread of fire application but still await a re- ing on June 24. ernment money to fund around the outside of the build- sponse. The meeting will take place at required works. ing.” Residents fear that if there is 7pm at Garden of West End Tav- Mrs Grant says in her latest The residents complain that no Government support they ern. Everyone is welcome. For constituency communique that Miller Heights – now with 122 may be held responsible as more information call Anne ever since the properties in the apartments – is considered a de- leaseholders. Boswell on 01622 833351. The awardwinning Downs Mail newspaper is delivered fortnightly doortodoor in selected areas, and is available to pick up from major supermarkets and local stores in the Maidstone and Malling boroughs. The papers are free to read online, as is the Daily Downs Mail news service. Find them at www.downsmail.co.uk or scan the QR code below. We can post the newspaper to you for an annual subscription of £25 for 24 editions. For details, email [email protected] or call a member of the team on 01622 630330.
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4 downsmail.co.uk News Fluff ball Gallo joins castle team A BABY Harris hawk has been hatched at Leeds Castle. Gallo (pictured), who has been described by staff as a “ball of fluff”, is the result of a successful breeding programme between two of the longest-serving mem- bers of the castle’s falconry team. Father Keye (21) has been cared for by head falconer Hannah James since he was three months old, and retired together with mother Texas (11) three years ago. Wildlife experts at the castle said the pair have a “very close bond”, having flown together in displays for many years. During their careers, both have been integral to the Bird of Prey April this year, we had the sur- Centre, regularly seen flying in prise of our lives when there was p5 the visitor falconry displays and movement in the nest. meeting guests on private experi- “Texas had got up to feed, re- ence days. vealing a tiny little ball of fluff. Miss James, whose passion for There it was, trying to sit up in the birds started at just 10 years old, nest, no control over his little said: “We retired my beloved head, wobbling around trying to Keye and Texas together in an en- see what was going on. vironment where we hoped they “We are delighted and can’t Will, Deputyship, would be comfortable enough to wait to introduce little Gallo to breed. visitors later this year”. “After three years of waiting Leeds Castle's Bird of Prey Cen- or Power of and hoping, we were beginning to tre houses a variety of birds, from think the programme was unsuc- burrowing owls to Russian Steppe cessful, but then at the end of eagles. Attorney dispute? Do you have a dispute regarding how a Will, Deputyship, Estate or Power of Attorney has been handled? Whitehead Monckton has considerable experience in helping clients to resolve these difficult disagreements and in many cases achieving excellent financial results. Call us today on Canterbury 01227 643250 Maidstone 01622 698000 Medics help Indian hospital Tenterden 01580 765722 THE CHRONIC pain unit at Maidstone Hospital has raised more than £16,300 for the Christian Mission Hospital in Vellore, India. London 020 7531 2990 The money will help pay for vital medical supplies as the country battles for an initial no obligation consultation by phone. soaring COVID-19 infection rates. The team of 29 key workers set themselves a target of £500 by holding E-mail [email protected] a 24-hour “pedalathon” but soon exceeded their goal. Unit lead Andy Colyer said: “It is totally devastating and heart-breaking www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk to comprehend that hospitals in India are running out of oxygen, or unable Whiteheadwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered to offer patients a bed. Our own experiences, which seemed very harsh at in England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, the time, pale into insignificance compared to our Indian colleagues. Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. “Seeing the impromptu expansion of funeral pyres into car parks and Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority other public spaces, motivated the chronic pain unit team to try to help.” under no. 608279. DM 11/19
5 News downsmail.co.uk Open garden RESIDENTS are invited to an You can help Elmer’s open day at Arnold Yoke garden in Leeds on June 6. The event will run from 2-6pm. Tickets, which are £5 for adults, can be pre-booked, but it is not parade pack a punch essential. Children go free. Home-made teas will be avail- NEARLY a decade ago, the Lon- able. For details and to book, go don Olympics were enhanced not to ngs.org.uk/view-garden/37079. just by the sport and the spectacle but by a band of volunteers Market day known as "games makers". They were ordinary people who WEST Malling Farmers’ Market is made an extraordinary difference due to return on June 27. to one of the most prestigious The event will run from 9.30am sporting events ever staged. to 1.30pm in the main street of Now Heart of Kent Hospice is West Malling. looking for its very own "trail mak- Visitors can enjoy a great array ers" to help deliver Maidstone’s of farm-produced meats, fruit, first free public art trail. vegetables, cheeses, artisan-made Elmer’s Big Heart of Kent Pa- breads and cakes. rade, which runs from June 19 to Volunteers are also needed to be auctioned off at the end to gen- August 22, needs ociable, enthusi- drive a branded vehicle and to or- erate vital funds for the hospice. Produce sale astic volunteers over the age of 18 ganise visits to schools, companies Project manager Erica Snow to cover shifts during the week and and local events. said: “If you are looking for the op- A CRAFT and farm market is at weekends. Over the nine weeks, members portunity to develop interpersonal being held in Fant. The Elmer trail makers will be of the public can take part in the skills, meet new people and give The event, organised by Little stationed along the trail and at two free walking trail to discover 51 something back to the community Fant Farm in Farleigh Lane, will town centre Elmer shops to engage Elmer sculptures across the town. we would love to hear from you.” run from 10am to 2pm on June 12. with visitors, provide information Each Elmer has been designed Register your interest at Hot drinks and refreshments and directions, and to represent the by artists and sponsored by a local www.elmermaidstone.co.uk/trail- will be available. Heart of Kent Hospice. business or organisation. All will makers or email [email protected]. PRECISION PLASTICS HOME IMPROVEMENTS Do you work from home? Have you considered a bespoke office inp6 your garden? PROFESSIONAL WINDOWS AND DOOR INSTALLATION We are a family run business with over 30 years experience We install Double Glazing/Doors/Windows/Aluminium/ Bi-fold Doors and more Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8am-5pm Phone for details: 01732 792188 / 07986 214737
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N724 Gullands_Downs Mail advert March_v1.indd 1 26/03/2021 13:42 7 News downsmail.co.uk Jailed drug dealer faces ‘Hundreds of jobs’ bill for £9k A MAIDSTONE drug dealer has been ordered to pay back more than £9,000 after being jailed for at Woodcut estate five years. Ashley Nation (36), of Ton- THIS is how Woodcut Farm industrial estate will look when it is bridge Road, admitted a string of completed under the name LOC8. drugs supply charges including supplying cocaine, MDMA and The developers Clearbell Prop- cannabis. erty Partners released this com- A confiscation hearing found puterised aerial image of the site, Nation had illegal earnings of located near junction 8 on the M20, £9,174, which included money in near Leeds Castle. bank accounts, cash, designer The Woodcut Farm proposal, a clothing and footwear. central plank in getting the Local Nation has three months to pay Plan through in 2017, was met back the money or faces a further with fierce local resistance, but six months in prison. outline permission was granted in Police searched his flat and 2018. found an array of high value It is hoped that the new facility, goods, many still boxed, as well with its easy motorway links to as almost £3,000 in cash. other part of Kent, will generate A Kent Police spokesman said: hundreds of new jobs. "Plastic packaging had been Concerns from council critics flushed down a toilet and white about the site, where exploratory A statement said: "The Kent Given its prime location in the residue powder was visible work has already started, have economy is well geared towards heart of Kent, with great transport around the toilet bowl. largely been allayed. logistics and manufacturing oper- links and access to a large skilled "Just weeks later, a second Outline planning permission for ations, with a significant propor- labour pool, LOC8 will provide an search warrant was carried out at the development was granted in tion of the local population ideal location for businesses and the same flat. Nation was again 2018. A revised masterplan pre- employed in connected trades. industry to attract the right talent arrested, and a number of high pared by the applicant, Maidstone "With about 792,500 people eco- and access global markets. value goods valued in excess of Investment Holding Limited nomically active in Kent, LOC8 of- "We have already had a range of £30,000 were seized." (MIHL), was then approved by fers access to excellent local talent enquiries for space on the site and A search of a car parked nearby Maidstone Borough Council to help businesses grow." look forward to welcoming more led to the discovery of quantities (MBC) earlier this year. Clearbell Capital spokesman businesses and creating many new of cannabis and cocaine. LOC8 stands for "Logistics, Of- Dominic Moore said: "We are de- jobs when we open in summer Nation received a prison sen- fice, and Commerce at Junction 8". lighted to be launching LOC8. next year.” tence of four years and nine months. An order was also made for his co-defendant Laura Tina tribute Hughes (39), who had previously THE Hazlitt Theatre is putting on been convicted for converting a Tina Turner tribute show from criminal property. 7.30-10pm on August 28. Hughes paid Nation’s profits A Hazlitt spokesman said: “Join from drug dealing into her bank an army of loyal fans for a truly account. She was found to have authentic, fun-packed musical assets totalling £23,124 and was spectacular.” also ordered to pay these to the Book at www.parkwoodthe- court, or face imprisonment. atres.co.uk/Hazlitt-Theatre Churchyard’s Food grant ST Gabriel’s in Kings Hill re- wildlife plan ceived an Asda Community Grant for its food bank. ST Mary's Church in West If you are interested in helping Malling is creating a new wildlife to deliver food boxes to people area in its churchyard. every other Thursday contact Rev The project to allocate an area in Mark Montgomery on 01732 the north-west annexe of the site Garden for bugs and birds 844194. for wild flowers, wildlife and bio- THE One Maidstone Business Improvement District (BID) has taken on a diversity is now well under way. patch of ground near the bus station to turn it into a mini wildlife haven. Any families with graves in the The Pads Hill site has been unused for many years but now it is hoped it Road re-opens area should contact the vicar to will become easier on the eye. PRATLING Street in Aylesford is ask any questions. Church mem- The One Maidstone team have sown wildflower beds using donated set to reopen on June 13. bers are looking for volunteers to seeds and plants. Bird feeders have been put in place, funded by Gullands The road shut on May 24 near get involved in the plans. Solicitors, while bug hotels, handmade by One Maidstone administrator, Old Mill Lane to enable drainage For details go to Nigel Downes, have been installed. works to be carried out by Kent www.stmaryswestmalling.org.uk. County Council. 8 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Jailed drug dealer faces ‘Hundreds of jobs’ Never too old for a mortgage? bill for £9k A MAIDSTONE drug dealer has The mortgage market has make your retirement more is so much regulation and been ordered to pay back more changed considerably in recent comfortable there are many protection in place nowadays than £9,000 after being jailed for at Woodcut estate years and no one has noticed options available. that the schemes of the past are five years. this more than local adviser unrecognisable to the wealth of Retirement mortgages or Equity Ashley Nation (36), of Ton- THIS is how Woodcut Farm industrial estate will look when it is Sarah Ferrell. options available today. Release can provide a safe and bridge Road, admitted a string of completed under the name LOC8. “I am finding that I speak very welcome solution to many “My role is to fully understand drugs supply charges including increasingly to people who are people who just don’t know why somebody is looking to supplying cocaine, MDMA and The developers Clearbell Prop- retired, or approaching that this may be an option. raise the money, what their cannabis. erty Partners released this com- retirement, and they need to plans for the future are and A confiscation hearing found puterised aerial image of the site, Sarah says, “I find that lots of raise mortgage finance for a then find the scheme that is people who could benefit from Nation had illegal earnings of located near junction 8 on the M20, whole variety of different right for them.” With 27 years’ experience in finance raising money at retirement are £9,174, which included money in near Leeds Castle. reasons but the high street is and over 6 years specialising in put off by bad press and other “If somebody is considering bank accounts, cash, designer The Woodcut Farm proposal, a unable to help” Equity Release, Sarah takes pride clothing and footwear. central plank in getting the Local people saying it is a bad idea raising money at retirement in the time and care she takes with Nation has three months to pay Plan through in 2017, was met With over 27 years’ experience when in truth there are so then I would strongly her clients. She is happy to visit your back the money or faces a further with fierce local resistance, but in the mortgage market Sarah many different options there is recommend a conversation as home and she is not just available six months in prison. outline permission was granted in continues to deal with all bound to be a solution. What there are likely to be options 9-5, but will offer flexible times to Police searched his flat and 2018. manner of mortgage enquiries is important is getting the right available that people just don’t suit her clients. found an array of high value It is hoped that the new facility, and is one of the few advisers scheme for the individual” know exist” says Sarah. goods, many still boxed, as well with its easy motorway links to fully qualified and licensed to For more information or a Sarah explains that there are Sarah is happy to visit your free initial consultation, please as almost £3,000 in cash. other part of Kent, will generate deal with retirement lending. many different ways in which home and, unlike many banks, call Sarah on 01622 631372, A Kent Police spokesman said: hundreds of new jobs. Whether you need to repay a retirement mortgages can be set she is not just available 9-5 07789 007447 or e-mail her at "Plastic packaging had been Concerns from council critics mortgage, finance some up so it is definitely not a “one but will offer flexible times to [email protected] flushed down a toilet and white about the site, where exploratory A statement said: "The Kent Given its prime location in the unexpected expenditure or just size fits all” scenario and there suit her clients. residue powder was visible work has already started, have economy is well geared towards heart of Kent, with great transport around the toilet bowl. largely been allayed. logistics and manufacturing oper- links and access to a large skilled "Just weeks later, a second Outline planning permission for ations, with a significant propor- labour pool, LOC8 will provide an MORTGAGES EQUITY RELEASE RE-MORTGAGE BUY-TO-LET FIRST TIME BUYERS search warrant was carried out at the development was granted in tion of the local population ideal location for businesses and the same flat. Nation was again 2018. A revised masterplan pre- employed in connected trades. industry to attract the right talent Equity Release can reduce the value of your estate and can affect your eligibility for means tested benefits. arrested, and a number of high pared by the applicant, Maidstone "With about 792,500 people eco- and access global markets. value goods valued in excess of Investment Holding Limited nomically active in Kent, LOC8 of- "We have already had a range of £30,000 were seized." (MIHL), was then approved by fers access to excellent local talent enquiries for space on the site and A search of a car parked nearby Maidstone Borough Council to help businesses grow." look forward to welcoming more led to the discovery of quantities (MBC) earlier this year. Clearbell Capital spokesman businesses and creating many new of cannabis and cocaine. LOC8 stands for "Logistics, Of- Dominic Moore said: "We are de- jobs when we open in summer Nation received a prison sen- fice, and Commerce at Junction 8". lighted to be launching LOC8. next year.” We are recruiting tence of four years and nine months. An order was also made for his co-defendant Laura Tina tribute carers in your area... Hughes (39), who had previously THE Hazlitt Theatre is putting on been convicted for converting a Tina Turner tribute show from criminal property. 7.30-10pm on August 28. Hughes paid Nation’s profits A Hazlitt spokesman said: “Join from drug dealing into her bank an army of loyal fans for a truly account. She was found to have authentic, fun-packed musical assets totalling £23,124 and was spectacular.” also ordered to pay these to the Book at www.parkwoodthe- court, or face imprisonment. atres.co.uk/Hazlitt-Theatre Need help Become Churchyard’s Food grant or advice? ST Gabriel’s in Kings Hill re- a foster wildlife plan ceived an Asda Community Grant for its food bank. ST Mary's Church in West If you are interested in helping carer Speak to Malling is creating a new wildlife to deliver food boxes to people area in its churchyard. every other Thursday contact Rev The project to allocate an area in Mark Montgomery on 01732 one of our the north-west annexe of the site Garden for bugs and birds 844194. for wild flowers, wildlife and bio- THE One Maidstone Business Improvement District (BID) has taken on a friendly team diversity is now well under way. patch of ground near the bus station to turn it into a mini wildlife haven. Any families with graves in the The Pads Hill site has been unused for many years but now it is hoped it Road re-opens area should contact the vicar to will become easier on the eye. PRATLING Street in Aylesford is ask any questions. Church mem- The One Maidstone team have sown wildflower beds using donated set to reopen on June 13. bers are looking for volunteers to seeds and plants. Bird feeders have been put in place, funded by Gullands The road shut on May 24 near get involved in the plans. Solicitors, while bug hotels, handmade by One Maidstone administrator, Old Mill Lane to enable drainage WWW.LIGHTHOUSEFOSTERING.CO.UK 03333 441 914 For details go to Nigel Downes, have been installed. works to be carried out by Kent www.stmaryswestmalling.org.uk. County Council. 9 News downsmail.co.uk Trust’s appeal for volunteers Farmer James takes on AN APPEAL has been made for volunteers to assist Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s outpatient services. regional role on NFU It is open to adults with mem- bers meeting monthly to discuss MAIDSTONE farmer James Former orchard land is given a services and provide feedback. Smith, a leading fruit grower, has break with the planting of cover Topics discussed include clin- been appointed to represent the crops that are then grazed by sheep ics, virtual consultations, opening interests of south-east farmers to boost organic matter. times and patient flow systems. and growers on the National He added: “Everything at Lod- One volunteer said: “I thought Farmers Union (NFU) national en- dington Farm is about embracing my experiences would be valu- vironment forum. nature, and farming with biology, able and could benefit the team.” Apple and pear grower Mr Smith rather than chemistry. Email mtw-tr@outpatientsman- managing director of Loddington “It’s an exciting time to be farm- [email protected]. Farm, joins the forum which has re- ing and joining the forum is a great sponsibility for steering and shap- way to influence positive changes Shop history ing the NFU’s environment policy. for UK agriculture.” A Nuffield scholar and former Loddington Farm goes back five A FORMER RAF veteran has chairman of Kent NFU, Mr Smith, generations in Mr Smith’s family, published a 100-page history of pictured, has embraced regenera- with his father Alan recently taking his family’s clothing store in tive agricultural practices on his Reading University crop science a less active role in the day to day Maidstone, just weeks before his farm. graduate Mr Smith has been transi- running of the business. 101st birthday. He said: “I am delighted to be tioning towards chemical-free The farm has diversified into re- David King, a leading voice of joining the NFU’s national envi- farming since 2020 and is focusing newable energy, property, and con- the Maidstone Orchestral Society, ronment forum at such a critical on soil health as the foundation of tracting services. spent eight years researching and time of change for our industry. I his farming system. Many farms found inventive compiling the account of King’s am passionate about farming and I According to the farm’s website: ways to drumming up trade last shops on Gabriel’s Hill. Titled think the pandemic has made con- “Healthy soil equals healthy crops, year as the COVID-19 pandemic King of Maidstone, 200 copies sumers recognise the importance of and the more nutrient-dense food shut traditional ways of making have been printed. home-grown food.” we consume, the healthier we'll be.” money, such as farm shops.
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10 News downsmail.co.uk Trust’s appeal Safe, secure & very, very strong - the revolutionary for volunteers Farmer James takes on AN APPEAL has been made for volunteers to assist Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust’s outpatient services. regional role on NFU COLOUR It is open to adults with mem- FENCE bers meeting monthly to discuss MAIDSTONE farmer James Former orchard land is given a services and provide feedback. Smith, a leading fruit grower, has break with the planting of cover The only garden fence you will ever need Topics discussed include clin- been appointed to represent the crops that are then grazed by sheep ics, virtual consultations, opening interests of south-east farmers to boost organic matter. times and patient flow systems. and growers on the National He added: “Everything at Lod- One volunteer said: “I thought Farmers Union (NFU) national en- dington Farm is about embracing In detail: my experiences would be valu- vironment forum. nature, and farming with biology, able and could benefit the team.” Apple and pear grower Mr Smith rather than chemistry. Virtually maintenance-free. COLOUR Email mtw-tr@outpatientsman- managing director of Loddington “It’s an exciting time to be farm- F E N C E [email protected]. Farm, joins the forum which has re- ing and joining the forum is a great Save time & money - sponsibility for steering and shap- way to influence positive changes no treating required. ing the NFU’s environment policy. for UK agriculture.” Shop history † A Nuffield scholar and former Loddington Farm goes back five Guaranteed not to rot, warp A FORMER RAF veteran has ANCE chairman of Kent NFU, Mr Smith, generations in Mr Smith’s family, INTEN or peel for up to 25 years. LOW MA published a 100-page history of pictured, has embraced regenera- with his father Alan recently taking his family’s clothing store in Costs in line with far inferior tive agricultural practices on his Reading University crop science a less active role in the day to day Maidstone, just weeks before his farm. graduate Mr Smith has been transi- running of the business. timber systems 101st birthday. He said: “I am delighted to be tioning towards chemical-free The farm has diversified into re- Variety of colours & sizes David King, a leading voice of joining the NFU’s national envi- farming since 2020 and is focusing newable energy, property, and con- the Maidstone Orchestral Society, ronment forum at such a critical on soil health as the foundation of tracting services. Professionally installed by spent eight years researching and DITED time of change for our industry. I his farming system. Many farms found inventive accredited Franchisees ACCRE compiling the account of King’s am passionate about farming and I ways to drumming up trade last PROFESSIONAL According to the farm’s website: INSTALLATION shops on Gabriel’s Hill. Titled think the pandemic has made con- “Healthy soil equals healthy crops, year as the COVID-19 pandemic King of Maidstone, 200 copies sumers recognise the importance of and the more nutrient-dense food shut traditional ways of making have been printed. home-grown food.” we consume, the healthier we'll be.” money, such as farm shops.
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11 News downsmail.co.uk Store help? CHART Sutton village shop is Imam ‘so grateful’ for looking for volunteers to help run it. The store is open from 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 8am to noon on weekends. donations to mosque Most volunteers do two-hour stints. If you are interested call A WORSHIP leader is “deeply Valerie on 843232 or Jane on 843743 for an informal chat. moved” by the number of dona- tions collected for the new Maid- stone mosque. Friars fayre Imam Dr Muhammed Usmani THE Friars Summer Fayre will delivered a heartfelt plea on social take place on June 27. media last month for £150,000, after The event will run from COVID-19 expenses and delays in 11am to 4.30pm at The Friars the design process raised the cost of in Aylesford. the building to £1.2million. Visitors can expect a beer He said when the old Mote Road tent, barbecue, cream teas, mosque was demolished two and a craft and gift stalls, children’s half years ago, the cost of rebuilding rides and more. was budgeted for just £1million “and no more”. on the cards. The ground floor space “COVID-19 hit the world and then Take a stroll Dr Usmani, pictured right with will be used as an overflow prayer we continued our project and we are worshipper Arshad Mahmood dur- THE Sutton Strollers are look- area, office and washing facility. finally reaching completion. The ing construction, said: “We are at a ing for new members. The mosque will also house a pandemic definitely raised the halfway point, we need about an- The club walk around the women’s prayer room, three prices of materials. countryside around The Three other £80,000 to reach our target, but kitchens, a three-bedroom flat, a li- “We thank worshipers and com- Suttons on the third Sunday of everyone has been so kind and gen- brary, lift and meeting room. munity members for their patience the month. To join call Chris erous and we are so grateful.” Dr Usmani added: “The original and cooperation. It has not been on 01622 842629 or Graham on He said the pandemic had put a plan was very basic. easy but I do think it has been worth 01622 745484 . hold on certain materials being de- “We just wanted to improve the it.” livered but a late May opening is still facilities and add a community hall. Go to maidstonemosque.com. THE BEST PLACE Your Summer garden in bloom FOR TYRES IS NOW OPEN! While you wait Servicep12 New Guinea Impatiens 13cm Geraniums 1ltr TYRES Grown locally in Kent Grown locally in Kent WHEELS £4.99 each £5.99 each BATTERIES EXHAUSTS BRAKES FREE Brake Puncture repairs Inspections Dahlias 2ltr Begonias 1ltr Grown locally in Kent £3.99 each OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8.30-5.30PM £7.99 each SATURDAY 8.30-4.00 PM
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13 For a small town, West Malling has a lot to brag about. West Malling: A lot to brag about Steeped in history, surrounded by the best of Kentish countryside, and boasting a quintessential range of independent shops, it’s where an historic past meets a contemporary present. A community of Benedictine nuns was founded here in the 11th century and the town features a wealth of ancient buildings including the town’s most famous landmark, The Cascades waterfall. An eclectic mix of old and new housing combined with a thriving business community have consistently made the town one of the most sought-after places to live in the south-east. An outstanding array of extraordinary individuals are commemorated with blue plaques throughout the borough. Author George Orwell and artist JMW Turner, both found inspiration for their work here, and legendary pop group, The Beatles, filmed part of their 1967 movie ‘Magical Mystery Tour’ here. Bars, pubs and restaurants boast award winning fayre, whether you seek a slice of cake or a five-course meal. Those in need of retail therapy will find succour within the abundant shops lining the historic high street. Fashion boutiques, jewellers, shoe specialists, and a flourishing monthly farmer’s market regularly draw the crowds. And Abbey Arcade is a treasure trove of independent stalls.
‘The Malling School Way’ Caring, Determined, Reflective The Malling School History Pre 2007 2021 The Malling School’s bright In November 1990, under the modern buildings sit in beautiful Headship of Mrs V Dagger, we became parkland. Renowned for a caring The Malling School. In 2005, the old school was knocked down, and and family ethos, its history goes reopened in September 2007 with back to 1957 when it opened as smart new buildings – named Russet, Clare Park Secondary School. Bramley and Tydeman to reflect the local apple orchards. The school was The first head teacher was Mr Pape, officially opened on 30th April 2008 by who presided over a small school the then Rt Hon Ed Balls MP. consisting of a single building. Another The Malling School is now led by Mr For Year 5 tour requests please call 01732 840995 was soon added, and Clare Park J Vennart and is going from or email [email protected] welcomed pupils for three decades. strength to strength.
The Malling School, Beech Road, East Malling, Kent, ME19 6DH Email: [email protected] Website: www.themallingschool.kent.sch.uk Telephone: 01732 840995 Facebook: Facebook.com/TheMallingSchool Twitter: Twitter.com/Mallingsch or @Mallingsch
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15 News downsmail.co.uk Concern over state of ‘Bogs’ BEARSTED residents battling a controversial 50-house development have written to Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) voicing their continued concerns, writes Chris Lawson. Simon Elverson (pictured) says ensure the capacity of the flood the Roundwell Park site, known basin is not further reduced.” locally as The Bogs, is “completely Residents say the relocation of inappropriate” and is prone to site offices has left a border de- flooding. prived of mature hedgerow con- The works, which started almost taining diverse flora and fauna three years after the first bulldoz- and insist this must be reinstated. ers moved in to clear the site, were Developers RAMAC were re- further delayed after two site man- cently under investigation for al- agers contracted COVID-19, caus- leged breaches of planning ing the site to temporarily close. permission and were advised to Mr Elverson, who has lived in submit a retrospective planning Cross Keys for more than eight application. years, said: “We have endured 16 Site manager Bob Wraight said: months of noise, dust, mud, con- “Since work started, we have been voys of 30-tonne tipper trucks and held up by a very wet winter, and eight-wheeler mixer lorries. And flood risk to our properties. eral construction waste that all on top of that, I and the other site they’re still barely beyond ground “The area that is designated an needs removal before any attempt manager both contracted Coron- preparation.” ‘ecology park’ on the plans is a dis- to establish an ecology park is con- avirus.” “The construction of that grace. There is a crushed stone and sidered. Developers estimate the first snaking concrete wall as a flood concrete haul road, dumps of ag- “We want an assurance the in- homes will be built by spring next barrier is only going to increase the gregates, concrete debris and gen- tegrity of this area be restored to year. Homes plan is Driver ned A DISQUALIFIED driver from deferred over East Malling has been banned and fined. traffic concern Ryan Webb (28), of The Heath, was sentenced on April 19 at PERMISSION for 106 homes at a Sevenoaks Magistrates Court. site in Allington has been deferred. He admitted driving while dis- The units will include a mix of qualified and without third-party bungalows, houses, and apart- insurance, in Dunton Green, on ments in land just off Beaver Road. March 2. Maidstone’s planning committee He was disqualified from driv- could only discuss permission con- ing for 20 months and ordered to cerning a very small parcel of land carry out 80 hours of unpaid work. which holds the access road to the He was also ordered to pay a sur- site. The rest of the site was al- charge of £95 and costs of £85. ready granted outline permission by Tonbridge and Malling Bor- ough Council as it sits in their Mayor chosen catchment area. A NEW mayor has been appointed Cllr Cynthia Robertson, who Shakespeare al fresco in Tonbridge and Malling. represents Allington, said: “It has LIVE outdoor theatre returns to Maidstone on the evening of Friday, July Liberal Democrat Roger Roud become apparent that the A20 2, when Changeling starts its season with a presentation of Shakespeare’s (70) has lived in East Malling for junction will be overloaded. comic tale ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in the magnificent setting of more than 40 years and has repre- “Local people feel very ag- Boughton Monchelsea Place. sented the patch since 2015. grieved that Tonbridge and There are also shows on the Saturday (7.30pm) and the Sunday (5pm). The parish councillor has been Malling Borough Council are al- The performance is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Maidstone, in aid of deputy mayor for the past two lowing building right up to our the air ambulance, local hospice and children’s charities. years. Cllr Roud also served on the borough boundary with no regard This is the start of the hectic Changeling season which runs across Kent, licensing, waste, environment, and to the effect on the quality of life Sussex and London until mid August. planning committees. here in Allington.” There are several more performances in the Maidstone area, including Cllr Perry said he felt “incredibly at The Tithe Barn, Lenham, on July 25 (5pm), The Friars, Aylesford on July frustrated” that Kent Highways 29 (7.30pm), Linton Park on August 5 (7.30), concluding with three more Garden visit had not attended the meeting. shows at Boughton Monchelsea Place on August 13 (7.30), August 14 RESIDENTS are invited to an open Cllr Perry said: “We’ve got a bit (3pm) and August 15 (5pm). day at Smiths Hall garden in West of a ransom strip (land needed for One of the actors is Jake Richards (25), who grew up in Bearsted and Farleigh on June 27. access) here...if we do not agree it, did an acting degree at ArtsEd, London. He said: “I am lucky to be playing The event will run from 11am to then it throws the whole thing Bottom – he is mischievous, funny and his timing has to be perfect.” 5pm. Children go free and adult out.” Tickets can be booked on line (www.changeling-theatre.com) with adult tickets are £5. The application was unani- prices generally £24, children (10 to 18s) £14 and under 10s free (tickets Refreshments will be available. mously deferred so a highways of- needed). To book go to ngs.org.uk/view- ficer could be in attendance. garden/5304 . 16 ESTABLISHED 1998 Roo ng and Gu ering experts covering Maidstone and the whole of Kent
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18 downsmail.co.uk News Burglar’s four raids on house A SERIAL burglar who targeted as being responsible. a vulnerable pensioner four He was arrested at his home on times in three weeks has been April 22 and was later charged jailed for three years. with four burglaries and 11 fraud Douglas Brown (53) of Bow offences. Road, Wateringbury, stole the vic- Brown pleaded guilty at Maid- Star Gloria opens homes tim’s bank card while they were stone Crown Court and was sen- TV legend and national treasure Gloria Hunniford officially opened the out, using a screwdriver to force tenced to three years in prison. new Ledian Gardens retirement village in Leeds. open the door and get into the Investigating officer, DC Rob Gloria (80), of Sevenoaks, cut the ribbon on the 116-home development house. Fagg, said: “Brown saw an op- in front of invited dignitaries and local residents. Among them was Maid- He then used the stolen card to portunity to steal from a pen- stone Mayor Cllr Marion Ring who was carrying out one of her final duties travel to Maidstone by train. sioner while they were away from before handing over to her successor Cllr Fay Gooch. Jamie Bunce, (left) of He fraudulently used the card home and stole cash they could Inspired Villages, said: "We see this making a real difference to people's to buy tobacco, cigarettes and a ill-afford to lose. lives and we hope that people do it on their own terms." sandwich at two shops in the “Burglary is an appalling crime Broadway. and leaves victims feeling ner- He made four further attempts vous about leaving their home Chris is new trust chairman to make purchases in the town and fearful of being targeted YALDING charity Kenward Trust, which helps those affected by ad- centre, but the card was declined. again. This is particularly true of diction, homelessness and crime, has named its new chairman of The victim did not notice they the elderly. trustees, Chris Munday. had been burgled and Brown was “I am pleased that within a Mr Munday is the chief executive of the Crossways Community, able to target the address a fur- month of his arrest, this man has a Christian-based charity providing housing to people with mental ther three times between April 9 been removed from the streets health issues. and 16. and is no longer a danger to the Mr Munday said: "I am delighted to be joining the Kenward team Police were then alerted to the vulnerable within our communi- as we offer our services to even more people." crimes and Brown was identified ties.” Go to kenwardtrust.org.uk to find out about the charity's work.
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19 News downsmail.co.uk Street ‘assault’ A MAIDSTONE man remains in Rural Maidstone road custody after an alleged assault. A cordon was put in place in Scott Street after a disturbance at around 11.23pm on May 17. The victim was taken by ambulance to a local hospi- on UK ‘danger‘ listing tal. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening. A 33-year-old man NEW figures have revealed Maid- from Maidstone was arrested on stone is home to one of the most suspicion of assault. dangerous rural roads in the UK. The A229 gained the top spot for New mayor most unsafe, whilst the A2 and A NEW mayor has been elected in A249 were both included in the top Tonbridge and Malling. 10 most hazardous highways in the Liberal Democrat Roger Roud, 70, country according to AA Charita- has lived in East Malling for more ble Trust. than 40 years and has represented The charity is calling for learners the patch since 2015. to take driving lessons on rural The parish councillor has been roads, as new research revealed that seven in 10 fatal crashes in- Deputy Mayor for the past two over a six-year period, shows 71% or urban roads. Our data clearly volving young motorists hap- years. Cllr Roud also served on the of fatal car crashes involving shows that the rural road risk is pened in the countryside. licensing, waste, environment, and young drivers take place on rural highest for the youngest drivers on planning committees. Rural roads are defined as non- motorway roads away from areas roads. The data also shows a pro- our roads and decreases with each with a population of under 10,000. portion of crashes involving young year of age. This is a clear sign that Book returns An interactive map has been re- drivers which are on Sundays is greater education and exposure to DITTON Book Exchange returns on leased showing July, August, Octo- 9% higher on rural roads than on rural roads helps alleviate the risks June 7. The event will then be open ber, and November appear to be urban roads. Edmund King, direc- they pose.” every first and third Monday in the the most concerning months for tor of the AA Charitable Trust, Mr King added that this research month from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at crashes. said: “Many young drivers, and in- “is just the first stage” in the trust’s Ditton Community Centre. Bring a Research conducted by the char- deed parents, are unaware that ongoing safety campaign aimed at book and exchange it for another, or itable trust, which analysed more rural roads are potentially much targeting young rural drivers. just come and read. than 70,000 young driver crashes more dangerous than motorways Image: Automobile Association
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20 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Street ‘assault’ Trials at hotel CRIMINAL trials are to be held at A MAIDSTONE man remains in Fruit crops hit by frost, Rural Maidstone road the Great Danes Hotel in Maid- custody after an alleged assault. A cordon was put in place in Scott stone, according to reports. Street after a disturbance at around Kent's first “pop-up” court will 11.23pm on May 17. The victim was be used to deal with the huge back- taken by ambulance to a local hospi- on UK ‘danger‘ listing winds and lack of rain log of cases in the justice system tal. His injuries are not believed to be caused by the COVID-19 crisis. FARMERS predict a short season The hearings will be held in the life threatening. A 33-year-old man NEW figures have revealed Maid- this year for cherry and fruit crops grounds and the Mercure's busi- from Maidstone was arrested on stone is home to one of the most after the recent cold snap, writes Rachel Sands ness will carry on as normal. suspicion of assault. dangerous rural roads in the UK. Dennis Fowle. shows how the Last year, Downs Mail revealed The A229 gained the top spot for gales the backlog of cases meant trials most unsafe, whilst the A2 and Leading cherry grower Brian New mayor devastated were taking longer to be heard. A249 were both included in the top Piper, with orchards off Hubbards A NEW mayor has been elected in Lane in Loose, believes he has lost polytunnels Tonbridge and Malling. 10 most hazardous highways in the country according to AA Charita- about half his crop to frost damage and steel Bus changes Liberal Democrat Roger Roud, 70, and icy weather. ble Trust. supports in the WHEN Maidstone’s new-look bus has lived in East Malling for more Mr Piper and his daughter The charity is calling for learners Loose cherry station opens on August 2 it will be than 40 years and has represented Rachel Sands have spent their the patch since 2015. to take driving lessons on rural orchard safer, brighter and more informa- nights driving their frost-buster The parish councillor has been roads, as new research revealed tive for passengers. heating machine up and down the Deputy Mayor for the past two that seven in 10 fatal crashes in- down, resulting in some time-con- early lack of rain. Many gardeners The refurbishment includes new over a six-year period, shows 71% or urban roads. Our data clearly avenues of trees in an effort to pro- suming repair work . years. Cllr Roud also served on the volving young motorists hap- across Maidstone are reporting a CCTV, enhanced lighting, and im- of fatal car crashes involving shows that the rural road risk is tect the blossom. Apricot growers also lost much licensing, waste, environment, and pened in the countryside. late and disappointing season of proved public announcements. young drivers take place on rural highest for the youngest drivers on of their crop and Bramley apple planning committees. Rural roads are defined as non- Mr Piper said: “It has been very spring blooms. It is a joint venture involving roads. The data also shows a pro- our roads and decreases with each trees appear to have been severely motorway roads away from areas challenging and expensive – as bad Magnolia blossom trees were in Maidstone and Kent County coun- portion of crashes involving young year of age. This is a clear sign that damaged. The plum and pear with a population of under 10,000. as I can remember. There will be full bloom one day and a brown cils, Arriva, Nu-Venture and own- drivers which are on Sundays is greater education and exposure to crops may be surviving better. Book returns An interactive map has been re- no June cherries this year. I think mess the next. Azaleas and hy- ers of The Mall Shopping Centre. DITTON Book Exchange returns on leased showing July, August, Octo- 9% higher on rural roads than on rural roads helps alleviate the risks the picking season will start well Local grape farmers are also re- drangeas have also been hard hit. June 7. The event will then be open ber, and November appear to be urban roads. Edmund King, direc- they pose.” into July and could run as late as porting frost damage. Much of Europe has been rav- every first and third Monday in the the most concerning months for tor of the AA Charitable Trust, Mr King added that this research mid-August.” Balfour Winery, based on The aged by the frosts and, in France, Hockey club month from 2.30pm to 4.30pm at crashes. said: “Many young drivers, and in- “is just the first stage” in the trust’s The pair covered the trees with Hush Heath Estate in Staplehurst, up to a third of the grape crop has MARDEN Russets Hockey Club is Ditton Community Centre. Bring a Research conducted by the char- deed parents, are unaware that ongoing safety campaign aimed at protective polythene, steel tunnels, estimates 5-10% of the crop could been lost, leading to substantial marking its 100-year anniversary book and exchange it for another, or itable trust, which analysed more rural roads are potentially much targeting young rural drivers. and netting, but the fierce winds of be lost and the season is about five Government support to help with a celebratory weekend on just come and read. than 70,000 young driver crashes more dangerous than motorways Image: Automobile Association late May ripped some of them weeks behind, due to the cold and growers. September 4 and 5. p20 p21
21 News downsmail.co.uk Rush for new homes ‘Splat app’ to help track is pushing prices up ESTATE agents in Maidstone are booking over 10 house viewings an hour, bug decline with some people putting offers on properties without visiting them. BUGS matter. And according to According to the Halifax, house conservation charities Kent prices are rising at their fastest pace Wildlife Trust and Bug Life, many in five years after the extended insect populations have declined stamp duty holiday triggered a to a dangerous level. fresh surge in buying last month. To tackle this, Kent Wildlife The average first-time buyer Trust is launching an app to sur- property in Maidstone costs vey insect populations. £220,000 – up £60,000 on the Users simply have to clean their £160,000 price tag of a decade ago. car number plates and, at the end Experts said the industry was of a journey, count the number of “working around the clock” to fit dead insects inside a “splatome- in auctions, sales, and viewings. ter” grid. Estate agent Ben Siggins, who is The survey is based upon the pictured with his team, said: “The “windscreen phenomenon”, a market right now is like nothing term given to the declining num- I've ever known. We have people ber of insects found squashed on offering on properties without car windscreens compared to pre- even seeing them. was an average of one offer for Sarah Raggett, a partner of Sib- vious decades. “If we put a property on the mar- every two viewings in Maidstone ley Pares, said the stamp duty hol- Kent Wildlife Trust’s previous ket, we can book 10 to 15 viewings and 165 properties in the borough iday “fuelled the bubble” but survey in 2019 found 50% fewer within a couple of hours, and the were added to Rightmove in the people saving money during lock- bugs than in 2004. next day, it's sold. This is even tak- last two weeks. down resulted in them wanting There is growing evidence of ing into account a rise in prices of Agents across the county have new homes. insect decline caused by pesti- between five and 10% this year. seen the best and worst of buyers She added: “The market is the cides and loss of habitat. “I don't feel the stamp duty hol- and sellers, with reports of cus- busiest it’s been for many years. Conservation experts believe iday has had as much of an impact tomers following estate agents to Here in Maidstone every property the consequences are potentially as people think. I think the lock- their cars or writing handwritten is generating phenomenal interest catastrophic to our ecosystems, down has had a much more con- letters to homeowners. with properties going under offer The pandemic has also seen peo- the survival of other wildlife and siderable influence.” sometimes within hours of coming ple reassess their living space. the pollination of crops. One housing expert said there to the market.” In the UK, only butterflies and moths have been monitored in enough detail to allow trends to Hit-and-run be fully understood. The Bugs Matter survey started crash report on June 1. For details, go to A SUSPECT remains in cus- www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk. tody after allegedly fleeing the scene of a crash in Maidstone. Thefts charge The crash happened in A MAN has been charged with a Woolley Road at 4.40pm on series of thefts across Maidstone. May 15. A police helicopter Dougie Frankham (34), of High- was dispatched and a man in land Road, allegedly stole bottles his 40s was taken to hospital. of alcohol and food items from He was arrested for failing to stop following an accident, shops including Sainsbury’s, driving while unfit through Morrisons and the Co-op. Runners hope to raise £8k drink or drugs and possession He was later charged with six THREE local runners have run a marathon to raise money for Maidstone- based mental health charity Mid Kent Mind. of Class A drugs. counts of theft and bailed to ap- They are (pictured from left) Vanessa Hewitt-Griggs (37), of Walderslade pear before Maidstone Magis- Woods, Justin Greenaway (50) of Hollingbourne and Barry Walker (53) of trates’ Court at a later date. Bredgar. Homes plan The trio had planned to run the Brighton Marathon but it was cancelled A PLANNING application has Caravans bid due to Coronavirus, so they took to the streets of Kent instead. been submitted to demolish large light-industrial buildings AN application for a new caravan Vanessa said: “By doing it locally, we had so much more support on the day, with lots of friends and family dotted along the route. That, along and replace them with homes. site in Yalding has been submit- with the support leading up to the day, and the fundraising total gaining The proposal is for eight ted. momentum is honestly what got us through those gruelling 26.2 miles." houses with landscaping and Permission is being sought for They now keen for their fundraising efforts to reach £8,000 or more, with ecological enhancements at an additional 12 caravan pitches donations still coming in. If you’d like to contribute, go to www.justgiv- Blue House Farm, Warren and 11 tent pitches at Orchard ing.com/fundraising/vhg-jg-bw. Street, Lenham. View Park. 22 News downsmail.co.uk Rush for new homes Buying, selling ‘Splat app’ to or both? help track is pushing prices up ESTATE agents in Maidstone are booking over 10 house viewings an hour, Whitehead Monckton solicitors can help bug decline with some people putting offers on properties without visiting them. you complete all the legal steps, whether BUGS matter. And according to According to the Halifax, house conservation charities Kent you’re buying or selling a property. prices are rising at their fastest pace Wildlife Trust and Bug Life, many in five years after the extended insect populations have declined We take pride in offering a no-nonsense approach to stamp duty holiday triggered a to a dangerous level. fresh surge in buying last month. what can sometimes be a frustrating process, helping To tackle this, Kent Wildlife The average first-time buyer Trust is launching an app to sur- property in Maidstone costs ensure your transaction is completed as quickly and vey insect populations. £220,000 – up £60,000 on the smoothly as possible. Users simply have to clean their £160,000 price tag of a decade ago. car number plates and, at the end Experts said the industry was Recognised by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality of a journey, count the number of “working around the clock” to fit dead insects inside a “splatome- in auctions, sales, and viewings. Accreditation Scheme, a requirement for some ter” grid. Estate agent Ben Siggins, who is The survey is based upon the pictured with his team, said: “The mortgage lenders to use the same solicitors. “windscreen phenomenon”, a market right now is like nothing Contact us today term given to the declining num- I've ever known. We have people ber of insects found squashed on Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in offering on properties without Canterbury 01227 643250 England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne car windscreens compared to pre- even seeing them. was an average of one offer for Sarah Raggett, a partner of Sib- Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by vious decades. “If we put a property on the mar- every two viewings in Maidstone ley Pares, said the stamp duty hol- Maidstone 01622 698000 the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. Kent Wildlife Trust’s previous ket, we can book 10 to 15 viewings and 165 properties in the borough iday “fuelled the bubble” but Tenterden 01580 765722 survey in 2019 found 50% fewer within a couple of hours, and the were added to Rightmove in the people saving money during lock- DM2019 bugs than in 2004. next day, it's sold. This is even tak- last two weeks. down resulted in them wanting www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk There is growing evidence of ing into account a rise in prices of Agents across the county have new homes. insect decline caused by pesti- between five and 10% this year. seen the best and worst of buyers She added: “The market is the cides and loss of habitat. “I don't feel the stamp duty hol- and sellers, with reports of cus- busiest it’s been for many years. Conservation experts believe iday has had as much of an impact tomers following estate agents to Here in Maidstone every property the consequences are potentially as people think. I think the lock- their cars or writing handwritten is generating phenomenal interest catastrophic to our ecosystems, down has had a much more con- letters to homeowners. with properties going under offer ĞŵĞŶƟĂKƵƚƌĞĂĐŚ The pandemic has also seen peo- the survival of other wildlife and siderable influence.” sometimes within hours of coming ĞůŝǀĞƌĞĚďLJƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝƐƚĞŵĞŶƟĂƚƌĂŝŶĞĚƐƚĂīǁŚŽǁŝůůǁŽƌŬ One housing expert said there ple reassess their living space. to the market.” the pollination of crops. ǁŝƚŚĨĂŵŝůŝĞƐƚŽŚĞůƉLJŽƵĐĂƌĞĨŽƌĂůŽǀĞĚŽŶĞĂƚƚŚŝƐƟŵĞ͘ In the UK, only butterflies and ^ƵƉƉŽƌƟŶŐƉĞŽƉůĞǁŝƚŚĞŵĞŶƟĂŝŶƚŚĞŝƌŽǁŶŚŽŵĞƐǁŝƚŚ moths have been monitored in Age UK Maidstone are here to help enough detail to allow trends to Hit-and-run ĚĂŝůLJĂĐƟǀŝƟĞƐ͘άϭϱ͘ϱϬƉĞƌŚŽƵƌ͘ be fully understood. The Bugs Matter survey started crash report Foot Care Clinics on June 1. For details, go to A SUSPECT remains in cus- ůŝŶŝĐĂƉƉŽŝŶƚŵĞŶƚƐĂƚϳDŝůů^ƚƌĞĞƚŝŶDĂŝĚƐƚŽŶĞĂŶĚdŚĞ www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk. tody after allegedly fleeing the 'ŽŽĚŵĂŶĞŶƚƌĞŝŶĞĂƌƐƚĞĚ͘WůĞĂƐĞĐĂůůƵƐƚŽƌĞŐŝƐƚĞƌĂŶĚ scene of a crash in Maidstone. ŵĂŬĞĂŶĂƉƉŽŝŶƚŵĞŶƚ͘άϮϬƉĞƌƉĞƌƐŽŶ͘ Thefts charge The crash happened in A MAN has been charged with a Woolley Road at 4.40pm on Befriending series of thefts across Maidstone. May 15. A police helicopter Dougie Frankham (34), of High- was dispatched and a man in 01622 753618 ƵƌƌĞŶƚůLJĚĞůŝǀĞƌĞĚďLJƚĞůĞƉŚŽŶĞŽŶůLJ͕ƉůĞĂƐĞŐĞƚŝŶƚŽƵĐŚŝĨ land Road, allegedly stole bottles his 40s was taken to hospital. ŝŶĨŽΛĂŐĞƵŬŵĂŝĚƐƚŽŶĞ͘ŽƌŐ͘ƵŬ LJŽƵǁŽƵůĚůŝŬĞƚŽďĞŶĞĮƚĨƌŽŵƚŚŝƐƐĞƌǀŝĐĞŽƌƚŽǀŽůƵŶƚĞĞƌ͘ of alcohol and food items from He was arrested for failing to stop following an accident, shops including Sainsbury’s, Bathing driving while unfit through Meals on Wheels Morrisons and the Co-op. Runners hope to raise £8k drink or drugs and possession /ŶƚŚĞƉƌŝǀĂĐLJŽĨLJŽƵƌŽǁŶŚŽŵĞ͘&ŝƌƐƚďĂƚŚάϭϱ͘ϱϬ He was later charged with six THREE local runners have run a marathon to raise money for Maidstone- Hot, freshly-cooked two course meals delivered to your based mental health charity Mid Kent Mind. of Class A drugs. counts of theft and bailed to ap- ĚŽŽƌ͘dƌLJLJŽƵƌĮƌƐƚŵĞĂůĨƌĞĞďLJůĞƫŶŐƵƐŬŶŽǁƚŚĂƚLJŽƵƐĂǁ ƐƵďƐĞƋƵĞŶƚďĂƚŚƐŝŶƚŚĞƐĂŵĞǁĞĞŬάϭϯ͘ϮϬ͘ They are (pictured from left) Vanessa Hewitt-Griggs (37), of Walderslade pear before Maidstone Magis- Woods, Justin Greenaway (50) of Hollingbourne and Barry Walker (53) of ƚŚŝƐĂĚǀĞƌƚ͘dŚĞƌĞĂŌĞƌŵĞĂůƐĂƌĞĐŚĂƌŐĞĚĂƚάϴƉĞƌƉĞƌƐŽŶ͘ trates’ Court at a later date. Handyman Bredgar. Homes plan zŽƵĂůƐŽŚĂǀĞƚŚĞŽƉƟŽŶŽĨĂĚĚŝŶŐĂƐŶĂĐŬƉĂĐŬĐŽŶƚĂŝŶŝŶŐ The trio had planned to run the Brighton Marathon but it was cancelled A PLANNING application has ƐĂŶĚǁŝĐŚĞƐĂŶĚƐŶĂĐŬƐĨŽƌάϯ͕ĚĞůŝǀĞƌĞĚǁŝƚŚŵĂŝŶŵĞĂů͘ &ŝƌƐƚŚŽƵƌάϮϳ͘ϱϬ͕ƐƵďƐĞƋƵĞŶƚŚŽƵƌƐάϮϮ͘ Caravans bid due to Coronavirus, so they took to the streets of Kent instead. been submitted to demolish large light-industrial buildings AN application for a new caravan Vanessa said: “By doing it locally, we had so much more support on the /ŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚ>ŝǀŝŶŐ^ƵƉƉŽƌƚ Gardening day, with lots of friends and family dotted along the route. That, along and replace them with homes. site in Yalding has been submit- tĞĐŽŶƟŶƵĞƚŽŽīĞƌŽƵƌŐĂƌĚĞŶŝŶŐƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐ͕ƌĂŶŐŝŶŐĨƌŽŵ with the support leading up to the day, and the fundraising total gaining The proposal is for eight KƵƌ/>^ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞŝƐĂďůĞƚŽŽīĞƌƐŚŽƉƉŝŶŐ͕ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ͕ ted. momentum is honestly what got us through those gruelling 26.2 miles." houses with landscaping and ƉƌĞƐĐƌŝƉƟŽŶĐŽůůĞĐƟŽŶĨŽƌάϭϲ͘ϱϬƉĞƌŚŽƵƌ͘ ĐƵƫŶŐƚŚĞůĂǁŶƚŽůŝŐŚƚůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉŝŶŐ͘άϭϲ͘ϱϬƉĞƌŚŽƵƌ͘ Permission is being sought for They now keen for their fundraising efforts to reach £8,000 or more, with ecological enhancements at an additional 12 caravan pitches donations still coming in. If you’d like to contribute, go to www.justgiv- Blue House Farm, Warren and 11 tent pitches at Orchard ing.com/fundraising/vhg-jg-bw. Street, Lenham. View Park. 23 Summer Homes & Gardens
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GoldenHillNurseriesWT227.indd 1 12/03/2021 13:08 News downsmail.co.uk Robbery case A SUSPECTED robber has been Working with families charged with stealing money from a petrol station in Snodland. The incident happened at the BP garage in Holborough Road at around 3am on May 22. A man to cut childhood obesity entered the garage and de- manded staff hand over money A NEW study has revealed thou- while more young people than ever from the tills. sands of school-age children have are developing type 2 diabetes.” Dean Ianson (20) was later ar- been identified as obese in Kent, Government health experts have rested at his home in Nevill Road. writes Ciaran Duggan. been monitoring how the food in- He was taken into custody and Latest figures show that nearly a dustry is making everyday food charged with robbery. quarter of 16,760 year 6 pupils in and drinks healthier. Mr Ianson appeared before Kent were classed as obese or Schools have also offered support Medway Magistrates’ Court and severely obese between September to increase children’s knowledge was granted bail. His next ap- 2019 and July 2020, according to about healthy lifestyles and a 1:1 pearance will be at Maidstone NHS data reviewed by the govern- package of care with families, using Crown Court on June 21. ment last month. goal-setting techniques to change Key reasons behind this include a behaviours. poor diet and a high sugar intake, Mrs Duggal added: “We know Planning roles which can lead to heart disease, that poor diet and too much sugar is DENIS Spooner (Con) has been cancer and tooth decay. About 3,350 Kent children aged a key contributor to growing obe- elected as chairman of Maidstone Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutri- 10 to 11 were identified as obese sity rates both nationally and here Borough Council’s planning com- tionist at Public Health England, while 705 were severely obese. in Kent.” mittee. has called for swift action to reduce About 12% of 16,545 reception Families have been encouraged to The vote was between him and childhood obesity and close the in- age children in Kent were found to look for the Change4Life “Good former chairman Cllr Clive En- equality gap. be obese. Choice” badge in shops. These can glish (Lib Dem). Seven councillors She said: “Bold measures are KCC’s acting director of public be downloaded via the free Food voted for Cllr Spooner and five needed to tackle this.” health, Allison Duggal, said: “Over- Scanner app or search Change4Life voted for Cllr English. Kent recorded the highest num- weight or obese children are more to find lower sugar options. Cllr John Perry (Con) was ber of obese children in the school likely to be overweight or obese as Go to www.kent.gov.uk/ elected as vice-chairman of the year of 2019 to 2020, second to Essex adults. This increases their risk of change4life and @Change4LifeKent committee. and third to Birmingham. heart disease and some cancers, on Facebook. HAMILTON KITCHENS Quality & Design At Thep26 Right Price
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26 www.hamiltonkitchens.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Rural productivity ‘in crisis’ WITH rural productivity in Kent an alarming 18% below the national average, a cross-party group of peers and MPs has launched an inquiry into what needs to be done to bridge the divide.
The Country Land & Business the Broomfield Park eco-village, Association (CLA) which repre- said: “The countryside can retain sents thousands of farmers, its young people if you give them landowners and rural businesses somewhere affordable to live and in Kent, is urging members to use land intelligently. support the inquiry, which will “In the short term, there is focus on digital connectivity, likely to be a demand for tourism rural skills, bureaucracy, and at staycation locations. Other than under-investment. that, we could talk about the pro- With local fruit growers yet vision of business units to pro- again facing a staffing crisis, the mote local business.” inquiry could not come sooner. Government red tape is cur- Lord Cameron of Dillington, rently stalling the 30,000 overseas co-chair of the cross-party group workers required on UK farms said: “As we emerge from the from entering the country. simply would not be harvested. Owner of Kingswood Christ- global pandemic, we must find Tim Chambers, of WB Cham- He added: “The Government mas Trees Rob Schroeder (pic- new ways to create rural jobs and bers Fruit Farm in Langley, has set itself up as the labour agency tured) said the rural businesses prosperity. It is important that we predicted a shortfall of up to 15% of last resort for UK farming and could help to boost affordable hear from those living and work- on the 1,500 seasonal workers he they are not taking that responsi- housing. ing in rural areas to discover what relies upon and said that fruit bility seriously.” Mr Schroeder, who is behind more can be done.” Bins plea as rubbish increases CONCERNS have been raised over an “insufficient” number of bins across the county as more lit- ter is generated amid the pan- demic, writes Ciaran Duggan. There are at least 9,500 public bins in Kent, but some have been left “overflowing” in country parks and on residential streets. Some councillors claim more people have been throwing away disposable drinks cups bought from takeaway businesses amid lockdown. smallest number of bins at 450. bins in parts of Kent was not suf- District and borough councils Three other councils own more ficient, particularly in country are chiefly responsible for empty- than a thousand including 1,092 parks. ing and purchasing bins. in Swale, 1,200 in Sevenoaks, She added: “People have Out of 11 Kent councils, Med- 1,205 in Canterbury and 1,250 changed habits during the pan- Appeal in theft way has the highest number of across Tonbridge and Malling. demic. When people are going bins in the county, with a total of Maidstone has 700. out to get fresh air and exercise, of sunglasses 2,100, with each one costing Cllr Trudy Dean (Lib Dem), of they are having coffee or tea in a around £25. Meanwhile, Dart- Tonbridge and Malling Borough single-use cup. Bins are becoming A CCTV image has been issued full with just that.” following the theft of two pairs of ford’s borough authority owns the Council, said the number of litter designer sunglasses from a shop in Maidstone. The incident happened at around 11.10am on April 30 at Driver held in country crime op Boots the Chemist in King Street. A VAN driver has been located and seized in Tovil. ties to identify, disrupt and Anyone who recognises one or charged following a police op- He was charged with driving catch criminals who believe both of the people, or has infor- eration targeting rural crime in whilst disqualified, driving they are beyond our reach. mation that may assist the inves- Maidstone. without a licence or insurance, "Our rural communities are tigation, is urged to call police on Joshua Allen (30), of Cottall driving without due care and just as important to us as those 01622 604100, quoting reference Avenue, Chatham, was driving failing to stop when requested in and around town centres 46/52202/21. a Ford Transit in Ditton on by police. and we will continue to engage You can also contact Kent May 5 where it was linked to Sergeant Ed Kavanagh said: with the people who live and Crimestoppers anonymously on the theft of catalytic convertors. "We remain absolutely com- work there to ensure we re- 0800 555111, or by completing Police say Mr Allen failed to mitted to tackling rural crime main focused on the issues that an online form on their website. stop and the vehicle was later and working with communi- matter most to them."
27 News downsmail.co.uk Bubble fun A ’BUBBLE Rush’ is coming to ‘Staycation summer’ to Mote Park on June 13. The event, a fun run at Mote Park, features four stations along a route where cannons pump put coloured foam. help castle rell coffers Every course is family-friendly and those with pushchairs and wheelchairs are welcome to attend. THE chief executive of Leeds Cas- Tickets cost £15 for adults and tle has highlighted the importance £10 for children. of a "staycation" summer to help the treasure house refill the kitty. Try bowling Months of closures last year and recent restricted opening "wrought MARDEN Bowls Club celebrated significant damage" on the fi- its 50th anniversary last month. nances, said Helen Bonser-Wilton. The club, based in Howland Mrs Bonser-Wilton started work Road, held an open day on May 22 in March, having succeeded Sir to mark the occasion, giving po- David Steel who departed to be- tential new members the chance to come the Governor of Gibraltar. try out. There will be a number of events Writing in the Leeds and Broom- to mark the anniversary this year, field parish newsletter, she said including a Celebration Day on 2021 "will remain challenging". estate. We hope for a busy stayca- director at the National Trust in the July 12. She added: "Complete closure tion summer to start rebuilding south west of England. for three months last year wrought and moving forward." She adds: “I am looking forward significant damage on finances and Mrs Bonser-Wilton takes charge to the challenges at the castle, Gardens open we don't expect more than 60% of after a successful five-year spell as where I will be developing and THE gardens at Arnold Yoke in usual revenue this year, due to ca- chief executive at the Mary Rose in leading the delivery of our new 10 Back Street, Leeds, will be trown pacity restrictions. Portsmouth where she led the year strategy, in partnership with open to the public on June 6 (2-6pm, "As an independent charity, the building of a much-acclaimed mu- our board of trustees. £5)) and June 26 (5-8pm, £10) in aid castle is dependent on visitor in- seum as well making it financially “The estate is a stunning place of the National Gardens Scheme. come to generate enough revenue sustainable. and we have huge opportunities to Free fizz or soft drink included. to care for the castle, collection and Before that, she was operation make the experience even better.”
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28 News downsmail.co.uk Bubble fun SuttoN VaLENcE A ’BUBBLE Rush’ is coming to ‘Staycation summer’ to Mote Park on June 13. The event, a fun run at Mote Park, features four stations along a PrEParatory SchooL route where cannons pump put coloured foam. help castle rell coffers the heart of Kent education, where each Every course is family-friendly and those with pushchairs and cares for all and individuality is cherished wheelchairs are welcome to attend. THE chief executive of Leeds Cas- Tickets cost £15 for adults and tle has highlighted the importance £10 for children. of a "staycation" summer to help the treasure house refill the kitty. Try bowling Months of closures last year and recent restricted opening "wrought MARDEN Bowls Club celebrated significant damage" on the fi- its 50th anniversary last month. nances, said Helen Bonser-Wilton. The club, based in Howland Mrs Bonser-Wilton started work Road, held an open day on May 22 in March, having succeeded Sir to mark the occasion, giving po- David Steel who departed to be- tential new members the chance to come the Governor of Gibraltar. try out. There will be a number of events Writing in the Leeds and Broom- to mark the anniversary this year, field parish newsletter, she said including a Celebration Day on 2021 "will remain challenging". estate. We hope for a busy stayca- director at the National Trust in the July 12. She added: "Complete closure tion summer to start rebuilding south west of England. for three months last year wrought and moving forward." She adds: “I am looking forward significant damage on finances and Mrs Bonser-Wilton takes charge to the challenges at the castle, Gardens open we don't expect more than 60% of after a successful five-year spell as where I will be developing and THE gardens at Arnold Yoke in usual revenue this year, due to ca- chief executive at the Mary Rose in leading the delivery of our new 10 Back Street, Leeds, will be trown pacity restrictions. Portsmouth where she led the year strategy, in partnership with open to the public on June 6 (2-6pm, "As an independent charity, the building of a much-acclaimed mu- our board of trustees. £5)) and June 26 (5-8pm, £10) in aid castle is dependent on visitor in- seum as well making it financially “The estate is a stunning place of the National Gardens Scheme. come to generate enough revenue sustainable. and we have huge opportunities to Free fizz or soft drink included. to care for the castle, collection and Before that, she was operation make the experience even better.” p28
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31 News downsmail.co.uk Landslip work shuts rail line Group hits £9k mark A MAJOR railway line will shut for nine days in August for land- slip works to be carried out. The route between Maidstone in bid to save church and Ashford will close from Au- gust 7 to 15 and bus replace- ments will take over. CAMPAIGNERS have reached a Engineers will be reinforcing new milestone in saving a Victo- the Bearsted cutting, which is rian church from being snapped more than 150 years old, to pre- up by potential developers. vent earth from tumbling onto The committee members want to the tracks. transform Headcorn Methodist As well as the nine-day clo- Church, in the heart of the village’s sure, the line will also be shut conservation area, into a multi-pur- for two weekends, on July 3 to 4 pose community hub with a mu- and July 24 to 25. seum and college. auction sign outside. hammering. It is essential to defend Route director Fiona Taylor Villagers Sally Musker, Duncan “This special place of service, sur- this village space, overflowing with said: "Line closures are always a Payne, Tim Thomas, Victoria and rounded by trees, is the beating memories, whilst creating a place last resort for us, because of the Richard Berry, Dr Khum Raj Pathak heart of Headcorn. This building is that helps people to turn their lives disruption they cause passengers and Bella Mansfield, pictured, have critical to our way of life. Every around.” but sometimes they are unavoid- raised more than £9,000 and aim to business in Headcorn has donated Villager and mindfulness coach able. be registered as an official charity . in some form. The breadth of sup- Sally Musker wants to create a “fully "Reducing the risk of landslips The campaign, called The Heart port is awe-inspiring.” inclusive” space for residents. will really help to improve relia- of Headcorn Community Project, A pub landlord said: “More Local history society chairman bility for our passengers. was launched after the Methodists tourists and visitors to the heart of Tim Thomas said: “Headcorn is "Extreme weather is having a abandoned the site due to rising Headcorn means more business for growing, and there is a demand for significant impact on our Victo- costs and a falling congregation. us”. these facilities.” rian railway embankments. Miss Mansfield (50), who has The building also encompasses Donations can be made at uk.go- “The works at Bearsted will lived in the village for 33 years, said: the village burial ground. fundme.com/f/The-Heart-of-Head- make the cutting secure for a “We dare not stop our campaign for Michael Rice said: “Since the pan- corn-Project or call Tim Thomas on long time.” a second or we could wake up to an demic, community life has taken a 01622 890270
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32 News downsmail.co.uk Landslip work shuts rail line Group hits £9k mark Call for the A MAJOR railway line will shut for nine days in August for land- slip works to be carried out. The route between Maidstone in bid to save church and Ashford will close from Au- gust 7 to 15 and bus replace- ments will take over. CAMPAIGNERS have reached a Engineers will be reinforcing new milestone in saving a Victo- the Bearsted cutting, which is rian church from being snapped more than 150 years old, to pre- up by potential developers. vent earth from tumbling onto The committee members want to the tracks. transform Headcorn Methodist As well as the nine-day clo- Church, in the heart of the village’s sure, the line will also be shut conservation area, into a multi-pur- Our Services include: Est.1989 for two weekends, on July 3 to 4 pose community hub with a mu- • In-house Design • Scanning • Faxing • Emailing seum and college. and July 24 to 25. auction sign outside. hammering. It is essential to defend • B/W & Colour Digital Photocopying Route director Fiona Taylor Villagers Sally Musker, Duncan “This special place of service, sur- this village space, overflowing with said: "Line closures are always a Payne, Tim Thomas, Victoria and rounded by trees, is the beating memories, whilst creating a place • A2 / A1 / A0 Plan Printing, Copying & Scanning last resort for us, because of the Richard Berry, Dr Khum Raj Pathak heart of Headcorn. This building is that helps people to turn their lives • Digital & Litho Printing disruption they cause passengers and Bella Mansfield, pictured, have critical to our way of life. Every around.” • Binding • Laminating • T-shirt Printing but sometimes they are unavoid- raised more than £9,000 and aim to business in Headcorn has donated Villager and mindfulness coach be registered as an official charity . We print: 10% off able. in some form. The breadth of sup- Sally Musker wants to create a “fully Bu "Reducing the risk of landslips The campaign, called The Heart port is awe-inspiring.” inclusive” space for residents. • Business Cards • Letterheads siness card will really help to improve relia- of Headcorn Community Project, A pub landlord said: “More Local history society chairman • Leaflets • Postcards • Tickets & Leafl s bility for our passengers. was launched after the Methodists tourists and visitors to the heart of Tim Thomas said: “Headcorn is • Order of Service ets "Extreme weather is having a abandoned the site due to rising Headcorn means more business for growing, and there is a demand for with this significant impact on our Victo- costs and a falling congregation. us”. these facilities.” • Personalised Invitations • Vouchers advert rian railway embankments. Miss Mansfield (50), who has The building also encompasses Donations can be made at uk.go- • Workwear “The works at Bearsted will lived in the village for 33 years, said: the village burial ground. fundme.com/f/The-Heart-of-Head- • Menus • Price Lists • Booklets • Invoice Pads make the cutting secure for a “We dare not stop our campaign for Michael Rice said: “Since the pan- corn-Project or call Tim Thomas on • Posters • Canvas Prints • Banners • Roller Pop-ups long time.” a second or we could wake up to an demic, community life has taken a 01622 890270 • CAD Drawings • Rubber Stamps • Labels….. 27 high street, west malling, ME19 6QH Tel: 01732 870483 E: [email protected] • www.thecopyshoppe.co.uk We PRIDE ourselves on our Personal, Friendly & Fast Service p32 SERVICES, SOLICITORS WILLS & PROBATE
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33 News downsmail.co.uk Bringing empty homes into use MAIDSTONE has the third high- has provided loans to the value of est number of long-term empty £37.4m leveraging £32m in private properties according to new data, sector funds to give a total invest- writes Katie May Nelson. ment of £70.4 m. Local authorities in Kent and KCC has also lobbied central Medway had been asked to supply government to spread the scheme data on how many privately- into other areas of the country. owned homes were empty for Nationally, local authorities are more than five years. facing a house-building crisis; re- Medway recorded the highest cently-released figures from the Firm funds speed scheme number, with 210. Thanet had 131 Local Government Association A LINTON landowner has paid more than £35,000 to reduce vehicle and Maidstone had 126. (LGA) show 2,782,300 homes have speeds through the village. The lowest number recorded been granted planning permission The traffic-calming scheme, paid for by Alan Firmin Ltd, has seen two was Ashford with seven. by councils since 2010/11, but only signs replaced with a white gateway design and a “Welcome to Linton” Data from Kent County Council 1,627,730 have been built. post. A new 40mph sign has also been installed along the A229. (KCC) last year revealed there Jon Sparkes, chief executive of The work also involved fitting “dragon’s teeth” road markings through the were 17,275 empty properties and homelessness charity Crisis, said: village and extending the 40mph zone by 100 metres beyond Redwall Lane. 8,755 second homes across Kent. “Bringing empty homes back into Chairman of Linton parish council Bernard Cresswell said: “As a Harley- Local authorities sometimes em- use is not a solution, with empty Davidson rider and the council’s Speed Watch coordinator, I know only ploy techniques to try and bring homes making up around 1% of too well that we need to reduce speeds through our communities.” empty homes back into use. housing in England. We need to Managing director Michael Firmin, who is pictured with Mr Cresswell, KCC’s “No Use Empty” loan build 90,000 social homes a year to said: “We were very aware of the longstanding challenge that residents, as scheme has brought a yearly aver- address the backlog of need. pedestrians and drivers, have in safely accessing the village hall and St age of 511 long-term vacant homes “A secure home is essential for Nicholas Church and its car park. back into use; the figure for 2020/21 people to enter and keep work, “As a local business with strong family ties to the community, we were was 334. provide for their family and pro- pleased to step in and fund the road safety improvements in the village.” The scheme, established in 2005, vide security for their children.” Compassionate and caring service
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34 downsmail.co.uk
Pauline Farrington Marg lost her husband in 2006, after death. Obituaries almost 50 years of marriage. She leaves her Jinnie Browne commented online: “So LENHAM’S Pauline Farrington (97) grew children, grandchildren Daniel, Jake, very sad! Lovely man, I used to work in up in Norfolk and met her future husband, Hannah, Rhys and Daisy and four great- the office next door to the ticket office and Ellis, at a dance in 1942. grandchildren. he was always so jolly and helpful and he The couple were married the day after brightened up the day. He will be greatly VJ Day in 1945 and moved to Lancashire. John Robert Flood missed.” They moved to the Maidstone area with Mark Rose added: “So sad to hear this. sons David, Joseph and Paul when Ellis LENHAM’S John Robert Flood spent his whole life living in the Maidstone area. We spent many a morning and occasional became headmaster of Swadelands School evening chatting about riding bikes. in 1972. Born during the war in Bearsted, he attended Eastborough School, although an Richard raised money for years for the Pauline also taught maths at the school. BHF through the London to Brighton ride. The family moved to Harrietsham in obituary in the Lenham Parish A true gentle, gentleman. I will remember 1978, and Pauline moved to Lenham in him fondly.” 1997, the year after her husband’s death, Magazine noted he and became known for her charity work was “quite a rebel” Mandy Lane with the Inner Wheel. and often missed Pauline leaves her sons and school. AMANDA “Mandy” Lane (49) lived in grandchildren. He took a variety of Senacre for 18 years, moving locally with local jobs but his her husband Peter with his work for an Marg Amos working life was electrical distribution company. interrupted when he Mandy was born and brought up in the MARGARET “Marg” Amos (84) was caught tuberculosis Tunbridge Wells area brought up in Maidstone and lived in the and had to spend two and began work in town until four years ago, when she years in Preston Hall Hospital. the NHS, rst as a moved to Harrietsham. John was married to Margaret for 30 cleaner and Born Margaret years and father to Emma and Megan. The subsequently as a Judd, she grew up in parish magazine noted: “John thoroughly delivery driver. She Upper Fant Road and enjoyed the countryside; he loved to sh, suffered a back injury began work in the poach for rabbits, make sticks, go shooting which affected her for office at Roots. Marg and ferreting. John enjoyed visiting woods the rest of her life. She married painter and and told wonderful stories and tips on also developed a lung decorator Bernard how to live out in the wild.” condition which also and was mother to His nal journey to the crematorium limited what she Karen and Glen. saw his coffin carried in a horse-drawn could do. She and Marg and Bernard carriage. He leaves his wife, daughters and Peter met through a mutual friend 20 years spent most of their grandchildren. ago and were married for nine years, bring married life at Birch up daughter Jess. Peter said: “Mandy was a Tree Way near Mote Park. Glen said: Richard Anderson very loving person with lots of friends. She “More than anything our mother loved TRIBUTES have poured in after the death was a committed Christian, who was her family. Her children, and then her involved with Christ Church in Paddock grandchildren were a massive part of her of Richard Anderson, who worked for decades in the ticket office of Bearsted Wood and the Ignite group at St Martin’s in life. When my sister and I grew up she Shepway. What is clear from all the took jobs at Sainsbury’s, in a chip shop and Station. Originally from Scotland, Richard was known and respected by the regular messages we have had is how much she working in the canteen at Maidstone loved people and they loved her. Grammar School. passengers who use the station. Richard was sponsored by some of the “Her health problems impacted her life “She had multiple sclerosis for the nal over the years, but her spirit and the way 35 years of her life, but she didn’t passengers when he undertook a charity bike ride and notices in the station she checked everyone else was all right complain and just got on with life. didn’t change. Mandy was diagnosed with “She only made changes when she had informed passengers of what he was doing. A notice at the station also cancer in 2020, but was still messaging to and stayed very stoic about the people at the end of last year after she lost situation. She and our father enjoyed a lot appeared marking his death and prompting tributes. His willingness to her ability to talk. of simple things, like meeting friends and “We adopted an abandoned cat and she having holidays in this country. help out, his interest in the many people he met and his cheerfulness have all been was a great comfort in Mandy’s nal days.” “She did travel abroad a few times and Mandy leaves her husband and really liked visiting Switzerland.” the subject of posts on various social media outlets which have reported his daughter. 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Broomeld & Kingswood left in the Sports Field around the teenage extension to the music/alcohol licence Parish Councils shelter. The clerk would let the PCSO would need to be made via a temporary Donation After a discussion it was agreed know and get the CCTV checked. events notice as the parish council licence to donate £500 to the Samaritans of only went to 10pm. The hire was agreed. Maidstone and Weald. Grit bins According to the Kent Junior play unit The addition of a swing Marden Highways website the grit bin outside the for the disabled was discussed. Cllr Parker chemist was missing from the database. had received quotes from Playdale and Youth service County Cllr Hotson said the Youth Service in Marden was due to The clerk was asked to speak with Kent Sovereign. Sovereign was only able to Highways and to see whether additional quote for an additional disabled swing, be up and running shortly and thanked the parish council for working on this. grit bins could be installed near The but there were concerns as to where this Library Cllr Hotson was still unhappy Parsonage/Highwood Green. Cllr Adam could be sited in the play area. Playdale with the latest response on the re-opening reported that there was one in Station would remove the existing double at of libraries with Marden being one of the Approach, but Cllr Barker was under the swing and replace it with a single at last ones to open. He asked the parish impression that this was under railway swing and a disabled swing. Playdale also council to write to the MP and leader of ownership. The one at the Memorial Hall provided the junior multi play unit and the council. It was agreed to write to was also privately owned by the Hall. had suggested a quote for suitable Helen Grant MP and to copy in the Bollards Cllr Boswell asked if the bell matting under the rope bridge and the Leader of the Council, KCC Cabinet bollards outside “Cornerways” could be disabled swing. Cllr Parker would arrange Member for Libraries and Cllr Hotson . added to the list for the Community this visit. Crime gures There had been eight Payback Team to paint when they were Council les Cllr Clark updated members crimes since the last meeting: six cases of able to work in Marden. Bollards on the on quotes received for storage of the les. criminal damage, one theft and a theft opposite side of the Maidstone Road It was suggested that a better way forward from a vehicle. There had been reports of junction would be added to the Highways might be to get all the contents of the les males with catapults and investigations Improvement Plan as vehicles were scanned. Cllr Clark would take this were ongoing. Antisocial behaviour had jumping the kerb and damaging the forward. also been reported with lots of damage planter on the corner. Salt bins The meeting heard that KCC caused. CCTV was being reviewed and was not providing additional salt bins, but investigations were ongoing. Cllr Barker parish councils could buy their own bins reported that British Transport Police had Staplehurst and keep them lled as long as they are provided a crime number for damage to a Donation requests The Air Ambulance not placed on highways land. It was brick wall in Station Approach. had asked for a donation towards two agreed to buy three bins, and members Newsletter The spring edition had been ventilators. It was agreed to make a would advise Cllr Clark as to where they delivered. Further copies would need to payment of £250 in the next nancial year. felt the bins should be placed. be printed for the summer newsletter, due It was agreed to make a donation of £100 Dog fouling A resident expressed concern to more houses being occupied in the to Staplehurst Community Events Group about the amount of dog fouling in the newer developments. The deputy clerk in the next nancial year. village. Members felt residents should be was sending out the E-Newsletter. Tree survey It was agreed to appoint GRS encouraged to report dog fouling on the Assets of Community Value A meeting Arboricultural Consultants to undertake a MBC website. had been held to discuss ACVs. Cllr resistograph survey of trees in Chestnut Inconsiderate parking There had been Boswell had spoken to the manager at The Avenue for £350. Councillors noted that several complaints about inconsiderate Unicorn, who agreed that the pub should they were looking to preserve the trees parking in the village. The PCSO went be submitted. Cllr Turner had spoken to wherever possible. round the village on March 10 to put the landlord at The West End who had Community events Staplehurst notices on offending cars, but there were raised concerns, especially regarding the Community Events Group was given none. It was agreed to print a leaet and impact which the pandemic had had on permission for two events on Surrenden distribute it to all households, asking public houses. Cllr Turner had agreed to Field: Picnic in the Park on August 1 and residents who were having work done on speak to them in more detail later in the Fun Run 5k & 10K on September 12. their property to make sure that the week. Cllr Barker said no information had Talent Pathway It was agreed that a sum workmen’s cars and vans were not parked been obtained at the Stilebridge Inn. of £920 be spent to work with Team on the pavements. Flooding Two members of the public had Rubicon to offer a Talent Pathway Chartway Cottage The owners had submitted comments on the draft report. Programme event at Jubilee Field Skate contacted the clerk about carriageway and Cllr Adam would incorporate these in the Park during 2021. Budget from the youth verge issues. KCC Highways had advised report and the clerk would send it to Kent provision could be allocated to this event. that three jobs had been raised along the County Council. One of the members of Councillors thought some form of road to repair and ll the verges. It was the public had offered to view the dedication might be considered towards also hoped that in the spring/summer drainage details of the new developments. an ex-councillor, in recognition of their they might be able to replace some of the Playing eld The clerk was still in talks work in supporting the skate park. verges, patch the corner and line it. with Golding Homes about an electricity Gas supply A number of residents were Boxing Olympia Boxing wanted to restart supply for new CCTV cameras. Antisocial said to be experiencing a long-term sessions in the Sports Field. It was agreed behaviour had been reported at the play problem with gas supply, resulting in that this was a good idea. Cllr Parker area/Rookery Court. Police had suggested them not being able to use their heating would promote this through the primary that infra-red/sensor lighting would assist and other gas appliances. Despite their schools and Cllr Ross suggested that the with CCTV night recording. individual efforts over four years, they secondary schools be included as well. Allotments Cllrs Boswell and Tippen, had still not reached a solution with SGN Precept Conrmation of the precept had had met with the clerk to draft the the gas supplier. It was agreed that the been received from MBC. There would be allotment agreement. After a couple of clerk should write to SGN to see if she no change in the parish element of the amendments it was agreed to send this could assist in nding a solution. council tax paid by each resident last year. draft to the Marden Allotment Association Library A resident spoke about the Pop-Up café The café would hopefully for comments. importance of the library being re-opened return to Kingswood from May 31. The Southons Field A request had been as soon as possible. The resident also shop was happy for it to be sited on their received for the hire of Southons Field on enquired whether a village clean-up forecourt as before. July 2, 2022 for a wedding reception with would be planned when the restrictions Sports eld litter The clerk said a resident a marquee, provision of toilets and music. are lifted. Cllr Riordan conrmed that it had contacted her about the mess being The clerk reported that, if agreed, an was being considered.
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43 News downsmail.co.uk Pervert had 12,000 illegal pics
CHILD sex offender Terrence Standage used his neighbour's wifi signal to download illegal images of children, a court heard. Standage (61) obtained thou- were seized for forensic examina- to the terms of a sexual harm pre- sands of images and videos over tion. This led to the recovery of al- vention order. six years. most 12,000 illegal images and DS Dave Shipley, of the pae- Officers found evidence he "up- videos, of which more than 300 dophile online investigation team, skirted" images of unknown vic- were classed in the most serious said: "Standage has a lengthy his- tims on a train and a bus. category." tory of offending and despite pre- A Kent Police statement said: Standage, pictured, was vious convictions has made "Police investigating suspicious charged with four counts of mak- sustained and extensive efforts to internet activity initially attended ing indecent images of a child and obtain and view abhorrent mate- an address in Charlton Lane, three counts of outraging public rial on the internet involving the Maidstone, on January 16, 2019. decency. He was also recalled to sexual abuse of children. The occupier revealed Standage prison having breached licence "His calculated use of someone had been known to piggyback terms imposed from previous sex else’s wifi has demonstrated his onto their wifi, prompting officers offences. determination to access illegal im- to visit his property, where they He pleaded guilty at Maidstone ages undetected. executed a search warrant. Crown Court and on Wednesday, “The material Standage down- "Standage was arrested and May 5, he was sentenced to two loaded will have resulted from various devices, including a years and four months' imprison- real children suffering appalling memory stick and hard drive ment. He was also made subject abuse. Assault case A GIRL was reportedly pushed to ‘Ban dangerous sky lanterns’ the ground by a man in his late 40s or 50s in Kings Hill. SKY lanterns should be banned be- sky lanterns on council property, The incident happened between cause of their danger to rural busi- but with no national legislation, Lavenders Road and Mareda nesses and residents, according to the countryside and our farms re- Court at around 4pm on Sunday, a landowners' body. main unprotected. May 2. The Country Land & Business As- CLA president Mark Bridgeman It is alleged the victim was sociation (CLA) says the govern- said: “Put simply, there is no re- pushed to the floor by a man she ment's stance on outlawing the sponsible way to use sky lanterns. did not know. He ran off after one naked flame, airborne lamps is out Releasing a naked flame into the of the girl’s friends called to her. of line with other countries. skies, having absolutely no control The suspect is described as Eighteen national organisations, where it will fall, can pose a signifi- white, in his late 40s or 50s, and including the CLA and farming, en- cant risk to livestock, wildlife, the vironment, animal and fire organi- environment, and rural businesses. wearing a black hooded jumper, sations, have written to the “The CLA has been campaigning black jogging bottoms, a black minister urging them to be made for a complete ban for many years. woollen hat, black gloves and illegal. It’s imperative that government black trainers. They argue by enacting Section listens to the concerns of those liv- Anyone who can help the in- 140 of the Environmental Protec- of injurious substances or articles, ing in the countryside and bans sky vestigation should call 01622 tion Act 1990, the Secretary of such as sky lanterns. lanterns once and for all.” 604100, quoting crime reference State can prohibit or restrict the Currently, 152 local councils Picture by Leon Contreras 46/73844/21 or Crimestoppers importation, use, supply or storage have already banned the release of @lc_photography anonymously on 0800 555111.
Crime reports A HOUSE in Atkins Hill, Boughton Monchelsea, was damaged when objects were thrown at it. Neighbourhood Watch A motorbike and bicycles were stolen from a shed in Pratling Street, Aylesford. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A play area in Forstal Road, Aylesford, was damaged by fire. A watch was stolen from a windowsill of swagen car as it was driven down Buckland A glass jar containing faeces was thrown a house in Brampton Field, Ditton. Hill. at a house in Tolhurst Way, Lenham. The back window of a Ford Fiesta was A conifer hedge bordering a footpath at a Two men tried to force open a garage door smashed in Harvesters Way, Boxley. farm in Braeburn Way, Coxheath, was set at a house in Clifford Way, Fant. Thieves stole a lawnmower, hedge trim- alight. A man was seen stealing copper from a mer and strimmer from a shed in Chapel A group of young people damaged a gate building site in West Street, Harrietsham. Street, East Malling. to get on to a school site in Crispin Way, A Jaguar car was keyed in Norman Road, A black Volvo S60, registration OE06 *** was Kings Hill. Snodland. stolen from a car park in Tonbridge Road. A Ford KA was damaged in a shopping A CCTV cable was damaged at a farm in Fifteen 6ft fence panels were stolen from a car park in Sittingbourne Road. Pye Corner, Ulcombe. garden in Bower Mount Road. Eggs were thrown at a house in Woodford A bike was stolen from a school in Oak- A windscreen was smashed on a Volk- Road, Fant. wood Park. 44 downsmail.co.uk News downsmail.co.uk Pervert had 12,000 illegal pics Greens are a party to watch Comment THE rise in the Green Party vote on May belonging to any party. Steve Munford CHILD sex offender Terrence Standage used his neighbour's wifi signal to download illegal 6 came as a surprise to many. But not to (Boughton Monchelea and Chart Sutton), the Greens. SimonSays Fay Gooch (Barming and Teston), images of children, a court heard. The perception of the entity once called SIMON FINLAY Editor Gordon Newton (Downswood and the Ecology Party as a group of bearded, Otham) and Tom and Janetta Sams Standage (61) obtained thou- were seized for forensic examina- to the terms of a sexual harm pre- simon.[email protected] woolly-jumpered cranks and mists with Twitter @Simonnlay6500 (Harrietsham and Lenham) have sands of images and videos over tion. This led to the recovery of al- vention order. a single issue obsession is simply not the demonstrated this ably over a long time. six years. most 12,000 illegal images and DS Dave Shipley, of the pae- case any more. People trust them. Officers found evidence he "up- videos, of which more than 300 dophile online investigation team, At the Maidstone Borough Council Perhaps the Greens have started to take But the Greens appear to have also skirted" images of unknown vic- were classed in the most serious said: "Standage has a lengthy his- polls, where the Tories stormed to a on the mantle of the progressive centre- turned themselves into an organised tims on a train and a bus. category." tory of offending and despite pre- virtually unassailable majority, few left, unshackled by the baggage of the campaigning outt, despite only having A Kent Police statement said: Standage, pictured, was vious convictions has made observers gave Stuart Jeffery much current Liberal Democrat and Labour 108 members in the Maidstone area and "Police investigating suspicious charged with four counts of mak- sustained and extensive efforts to chance of taking the once true blue North parties. relying on donations rather than big internet activity initially attended ing indecent images of a child and obtain and view abhorrent mate- Downs seat where Patrik Garten had 72% The Green Party does have wider party donors or union contributions at a an address in Charlton Lane, three counts of outraging public rial on the internet involving the of the vote (with a 384 majority) last time. policies than those one might expect of it. national level. Maidstone, on January 16, 2019. decency. He was also recalled to sexual abuse of children. That was diminished to a few dozen There are stances on the NHS, Europe, Donna Greenan reected on the The occupier revealed Standage prison having breached licence "His calculated use of someone votes. In Bridge ward, Donna Greenan planning, animal rights and the justice success of May 6 thus: "One common had been known to piggyback terms imposed from previous sex else’s wifi has demonstrated his came second to the Conservatives in a system which would chime with many theme is that residents appreciated us onto their wifi, prompting officers offences. determination to access illegal im- Liberal Democrat ward. She tripled the taking the time to campaign on local to visit his property, where they He pleaded guilty at Maidstone ages undetected. Green vote on 2016 and the Lib Dem issues, attend council meetings and help executed a search warrant. Crown Court and on Wednesday, “The material Standage down- candidate limped in third. It is no longer a deal with even the smaller problems, like "Standage was arrested and May 5, he was sentenced to two loaded will have resulted from It is true the candidates, scenting scalps a waste issue we have in Bridge Ward, various devices, including a years and four months' imprison- real children suffering appalling there, hammered the wards relentlessly. haven for when none of us are elected officials. memory stick and hard drive ment. He was also made subject abuse. Even in other blue-rosetted areas, the "The results across England show that same was repeated. In Headcorn, Green the disenchanted we can win seats next year in Maidstone Susan Parr came second. Yes, readers, and I am really looking forward to seeing Assault case second in Headcorn, albeit a distant who lean left of centre. Mind you, our new KCC councillors in action. second. Ditto Marden and Yalding. There whether “eco-socialism” is everyone’s "We came second in Marden, where A GIRL was reportedly pushed to were a couple of respectable third places, “ our voter base remained stable, but the ‘Ban dangerous sky lanterns’ cup of tea is a moot point. the ground by a man in his late too. So, how did the Greens achieve success Conservatives had a surprise candidate a 40s or 50s in Kings Hill. SKY lanterns should be banned be- sky lanterns on council property, The Green Party hoovered up 13% of in Maidstone? The obvious reasons” couple of months before the election. We The incident happened between cause of their danger to rural busi- but with no national legislation, the popular vote, which would suggest it would lie in the rampant house-building also came second in Headcorn without Lavenders Road and Mareda nesses and residents, according to the countryside and our farms re- is no longer a haven for the disengaged quotas demanded by central any campaigning and not having stood Court at around 4pm on Sunday, a landowners' body. main unprotected. or disenchanted. Government, creating congested roads in 2018." May 2. The Country Land & Business As- CLA president Mark Bridgeman It returned four members to Kent and concerning levels of air pollution The new ruling Tory administration It is alleged the victim was sociation (CLA) says the govern- said: “Put simply, there is no re- County Council, with Steve Campkin which, in one Maidstone street, are the could bring the Greens into the fold in an pushed to the floor by a man she ment's stance on outlawing the sponsible way to use sky lanterns. taking 45% of the vote in Ashford east, worst in the county, according to Friends advisory role, particularly in devising did not know. He ran off after one naked flame, airborne lamps is out Releasing a naked flame into the Rich Lehmann (52%) in Swale east, and of the Earth in 2020. strategies to combat the environmental of the girl’s friends called to her. of line with other countries. skies, having absolutely no control Anthony Hood (27%) and Paul Stepto They have made the case for better, impact of Government house-building The suspect is described as Eighteen national organisations, where it will fall, can pose a signifi- (23%) in Tonbridge. All of these seats more accessible and greener public targets. white, in his late 40s or 50s, and including the CLA and farming, en- cant risk to livestock, wildlife, the were taken with handsome winning transport, but not necessarily a greater New controversial Government vironment, animal and fire organi- environment, and rural businesses. wearing a black hooded jumper, margins and each ahead of the Tories. use of electric vehicles. legislation being hurried through, which sations, have written to the “The CLA has been campaigning The modern Green Party has been could circumvent many of the existing black jogging bottoms, a black The Greens have put community minister urging them to be made for a complete ban for many years. doing what Ukip and Sinn Fein practised planning controls, looms large on the woollen hat, black gloves and campaigners to good use on the ground, illegal. It’s imperative that government over decades - building grassroots ghting the corner of residents on basic horizon now and this borough is unlikely black trainers. They argue by enacting Section listens to the concerns of those liv- support and polishing its electable veneer stuff, such as bin collections. to fare well. Anyone who can help the in- 140 of the Environmental Protec- of injurious substances or articles, ing in the countryside and bans sky while slowly confounding critics by Essentially, voters will gravitate Such a move to achieve consensus vestigation should call 01622 tion Act 1990, the Secretary of such as sky lanterns. lanterns once and for all.” creating a wider appeal, particularly with towards individuals with a track record would certainly be a refreshing and 604100, quoting crime reference State can prohibit or restrict the Currently, 152 local councils Picture by Leon Contreras younger voters. Before you knew it, they of serving their communities well and inclusive manner of doing council 46/73844/21 or Crimestoppers importation, use, supply or storage have already banned the release of @lc_photography were snapping at the establishment's putting in the graft but without business for the benet of all the people anonymously on 0800 555111. ankles. who live here.
Maidstone Council (Downs Mail, April or how qualied each candidate was to do
Crime reports A HOUSE in Atkins Hill, Boughton Post no longer rst class 15-May 5). it. I suspect most people wondered the Monchelsea, was damaged when objects AWARE of the serious postal delays over The election results show so many same. were thrown at it. Neighbourhood Watch Christmas and New Year, I sent rst class people agree with me. I realise many A motorbike and bicycles were stolen The same questions apply to the a card to my son in Essex seven days problems will be ongoing and I wish the from a shed in Pratling Street, Aylesford. candidates putting themselves forward to Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police before his birthday. It arrived the day after new Conservative administration well. A play area in Forstal Road, Aylesford, represent our interests as councillors. his birthday. We will all be watching them very closely! was damaged by fire. What do we know about most of them? When I told two Maidstone friends they D Patel, via email Only the party for which, in most cases A watch was stolen from a windowsill of swagen car as it was driven down Buckland A glass jar containing faeces was thrown had very similar stories, one an even a house in Brampton Field, Ditton. Hill. at a house in Tolhurst Way, Lenham. they stand, so rather than vote for local longer delay. I still expect next-day Who are our councillors? issues most who vote, I am sure, nd The back window of a Ford Fiesta was A conifer hedge bordering a footpath at a Two men tried to force open a garage door delivery if I invest in a rst-class stamp. smashed in Harvesters Way, Boxley. farm in Braeburn Way, Coxheath, was set at a house in Clifford Way, Fant. THE Simon Says article in Downs Mail themselves voting on national issues. Am I now foolish? What is going on? Thieves stole a lawnmower, hedge trim- alight. A man was seen stealing copper from a edition number 294 raised some very How many of these candidates are Brenda Powell, Maidstone. mer and strimmer from a shed in Chapel A group of young people damaged a gate building site in West Street, Harrietsham. important issues. competent? Have they been, for example,
Street, East Malling. to get on to a school site in Crispin Way, A Jaguar car was keyed in Norman Road, On the way to the polling station on successful in business, or public office? A black Volvo S60, registration OE06 *** was Kings Hill. Snodland. May 6, my wife and I discussed why we We don’t know, but they are responsible stolen from a car park in Tonbridge Road. A Ford KA was damaged in a shopping A CCTV cable was damaged at a farm in Good luck to the Tories were being asked to vote for a police and for managing a budget of millions of Fifteen 6ft fence panels were stolen from a car park in Sittingbourne Road. Pye Corner, Ulcombe. THANK you for publishing my letter crime commissioner, as we had little or no pounds. garden in Bower Mount Road. Eggs were thrown at a house in Woodford A bike was stolen from a school in Oak- about changes needed at the top of idea on what he or she is supposed to do, I hold most politicians at the same level A windscreen was smashed on a Volk- Road, Fant. wood Park. 45 downsmail.co.uk
Comment of esteem as estate agents. In other words, I have at least two lots nesting in my 4G data coverage at 86% in urban areas you can take what they say with two tons hedge and just yesterday evening there versus 46% in rural areas. of salt. was a small ock of maybe six birds in the Without strong connectivity, full access In my opinion, far too many of them tree. to an increasingly digital economy will stand for election just to advance Barbara Ray, Bearsted remain out of reach. themselves, rather than the issues of the Political ill will must be growing too, at voters they represent. The fact that, on a A pair at our birdfeeder the disconnect between what ministers good day, less than a third of the I SAW your article on the state of the say about boosting the country’s green electorate bother to vote in a local greennch populations locally and credentials, and the action taken to help election, indicates that most feel it a waste wanted to let you know that my husband rural communities play their part. A of time making the effort so to do. and I saw a pair at our bird feeder today. succession of tree-planting photo ops will Who can blame them? Look at the We live in Bearsted. In fact, we have do little to provide the incentive needed to quality of most of what we get and the seen them a few times recently. power a green revolution. consequences as described in your article. Carol Phillips, Bearsted The Country Land and Business Perhaps party politics should be Association (CLA), which represents removed from local elections and all Bullnch seen in bushes thousands of farmers, landowners and candidates stand as independents and live rural businesses, wants to see the in the wards they seek to represent. Then I WAS reading your interesting article Government show some ambition for we may get far better representation recently about the disappearing economic development in rural areas. based on what we want, locally, rather greennches in Kent. And at the heart of that ambition should than what the central office of a political Yes, I have to agree – I haven’t seen any be encouraging entrepreneurship. party wants. in my garden (in the Langley area) for at For example, pubs that have closed due David Hackett, Park Way, Maidstone least four or ve years, yet they were once to a lack of viability should be given as common as sparrows. permitted development rights, allowing But, interestingly, the much-persecuted the buildings to be used as rural business Punish crime to reduce it but beautiful bullnch has been making hubs for entrepreneurs and small YOUR leading article about Kent Police’s an appearance in some of the bushes at business owners. Government should attitude paints a colourful and the very bottom of the garden most days. lean on network operators to deliver the unfortunately rather accurate portrayal of I can remember a few years back when much talked-about improved coverage the public sector attitudes to the taxpayer. these little birds were on the RSPB red list now, not in four years’ time. As someone with a close association and seeing one was like a thing of With the worst of the pandemic with the police service over the years, wonder. Now their distinctive white tail hopefully behind us, the Prime Minister although not in Kent, the idea that your bar can be seen reasonably regularly on needs to make good on his promise to average frontline officer views the public the back roads. build back better. His desire to level up with disinterest would be incorrect. Most C Patterson, via email the country is the right one, but this must officers just go where they are sent and work for the countryside as well as deal with whatever jobs assigned to them. industrial centres. Most are as frustrated as the victims Keep an eye on rural votes There are jobs to be created, businesses when it comes to things like criminal MUCH has been made in recent days of to support and – as far as the Prime damage, antisocial behaviour or burglary. how Labour’s red wall continues to Minister is concerned – rural votes still to The victims don’t get a good service crumble. be earned. from Kent Police, but these are issues that Eleven years into a Tory Government Mark Bridgeman, President of the can be prevented by pro-active, and the Conservatives are winning by- Country Land and Business Association community policing. elections in Labour heartlands. It is Shepway is crying out for a police extraordinary stuff. office, for instance, and dedicated officers But Boris Johnson, and the government Your views on strategy dealing with crime on the ground. When he leads, should be keeping a much closer VIEWS are being sought on a new the criminals see crime is punished, then eye on their rural heartlands, where many Maidstone Borough Council Economic crime will reduce. are wondering if the “levelling up Development Strategy and State of the Instead, officers, if and when they do agenda” applies to them. Indeed, if rural Nation Report. attend, just act as apologists for their communities are once again forgotten, the This sets out the council's vision and masters’ inability to focus on the needs. Prime Minister risks undermining his ambition for future growth and The service is meant to put “protect and own “blue wall” for years to come. development of Maidstone borough’s serve” at the heart of policing. Kent Police The lazy stereotype is that rural economy. does neither. communities are wealthy and “quaint”, The draft strategy is looking ahead until Yet the Conservative Matthew Scott, with little need of investment or support. 2030 and provides a set of interventions to who, inexplicably,was returned as Kent However, the reality is that many of the help grow the local economy and increase Police and Crime Commissioner in May, UK’s poorest regions are predominantly productivity and sets a ve-year action keeps banging on and on about having rural. plan to support the vision. more officers in Kent than ever before. Due to lack of investment, the rural As it has been prepared during a period That’s great – where are they? If they are economy is now 18% less productive than of signicant economic uncertainty not enough, get some more. the national average. As a result, associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, Deal with it. hundreds of thousands of jobs have not it is difficult to anticipate the full extent of M Gibson, via email been created, and the opportunity for the economic impact. It therefore prosperity missed entirely. Indeed, considers both the support that righting this productivity imbalance Maidstone’s economy will need through More greennches around would add £43bn to the national recovery in the short and medium term, I READ your article in edition 294 of economy. as well as how the areas potential can be Downs Mail about the greennch decline The fact that the government has no enhanced over the longer term. in which you asked if people had seen coherent policy to grow the rural The consultation is open until any in their gardens. economy simply isn’t good enough. Wednesday, July 7 and is available on the I live in Bearsted and was surprised to Nearly half a million homes and around MBC website at: maidstone.gov.uk/ see this article as this year I have seen a 125,000 businesses in rural areas have EDSconsultation. real increase in them in my garden. poor broadband, and Ofcom gures show Maidstone Borough Council
46 downsmail.co.uk Opinion Better healthcare at the heart of recovery ICAR of Bearsted, Canon John VCorbyn, loves to swim, but this post- WE’VE made a huge amount of progress in lockdown joy did betray a Church of bringing Coronavirus under control. England trait. He tells his parish Thanks to the work of our local vaccination By Helen magazine: "I looked forward to my return … with both excitement and nerves. centres, more than a million people in Kent Whately Booking the swim was a bit tricky – they have now received at least one dose of a MP for had changed the website. As a C of E Covid vaccine. This is a truly impressive vicar, I don't do change!" achievement, made possible by the hard work Faversham and of our NHS staff and volunteers. Mid-Kent HE great secret that was Bearsted While our vaccine rollout has put us on the TParish Council’s “Project B” turned out road to recovery, we are not out of the woods to be some allotments and a couple of yet. Variants of concern have been reported tennis courts. A resident goes all Basil nurses needed for this have worked at out locally and we know only too well how Fawlty, exclaiming: “You’d think they’d through the pandemic. bought Sydney Opera House or the quickly new variants can spread. More support is on the way. We’re These next few weeks will be crucial in Hanging Gardens of Babylon!” Perhaps committed to having 20,000 more doctors and not, but what about herds of wildebeest keeping the virus under control and keeping 50,000 more nurses working in our NHS by our recovery on track. With restrictions easing, sweeping majestically across the extended the end of this Parliament. car park? it’s even more important that people take up Last week, I visited the new medical school the offer to get vaccinated. I’m pleased that in Canterbury. Getting a medical school for RITER Nick Hornby once people aged 30 or over are now being called to Kent was one of the rst things I campaigned Wdescribed following football as get their vaccination. for when I was elected as an MP in 2015, and “entertainment as pain”, and guitar- Keeping the virus under control is not only it was fantastic to see those plans turned into strumming vicar Rev Mark Pavey knows important for easing the restrictions, but also reality, helping us to train more doctors and this only too well. The Liverpool for giving the NHS time and space to recover. nurses. supporter has watched his team This is so important for people waiting for a This month, I’ll meet our local Clinical underperform this season but declares: “I hip or knee replacement, nding it difficult to Commissioning Group to look at how we can completely believe we will be back get an appointment to see their GP in person, improve primary care in Maidstone, where we belong next season! I say or waiting for mental health treatment. particularly in Parkwood where I know there ‘we’…I mean I’ve never actually scored a From my work as a health minister, I know are problems accessing GP appointments. goal for Liverpool or won a tackle or that the Government has a huge focus on how I’m determined to make sure local actually played for them.” we can get these waiting lists down again. It's healthcare is at the heart of our recovery from EW Leeds Castle boss Helen Bonser- not easy because many of the doctors and COVID-19. NWilton took over as Coronavirus ripped through the tourism industry. Weeks after taking charge there was a new “plague” to deal with – avian u. Working for a better borough Thankfully, having followed national guidelines, the castle’s black swans and MAIDSTONE is a great place. I attended local raptors survive. schools, spent 40 years building a business and HE intro to a press release from a raised children here. Maidstone has been good By David Burton London PR company reads: “Some to us. But it could be so much better. T Conservative leader of light-hearted news to end the week - There are many challenges. Not least, it is a celebrities Jacqueline Jossa and Olivia victim of its own desirability. Every year, more Maidstone Borough Council Bowen have given people a sneak peak and more families are moving here. Government (sic) of their new, sparkling bathrooms has set us targets to build extra homes and we’ll while doing the #BlooDancingCleans be punished if we do not meet them. I accept we ensure our countryside continues to be the vital TikTok dance challenge ft ‘Talk Dirty’ by need housing, but the levels thrust upon us ex- food-producing region we all depend upon. Jason Derulo.” Nor me. Bin. ceed reasonable expectation and we must con- For Conservatives in Maidstone the environ- tinue to push back when the essential ment, climate change and biodiversity will not O Leeds and the launch of the Inspired infrastructure doesn’t keep pace. be a separate agenda. It will be every agenda. If TVillages’ retirement home, where Infrastructure - the road improvements, med- we are tackling congestion on our roads, it will national treasure and Loose Women star ical centres, water and sewage capacity, choices be about air quality. If we are granting permis- Gloria Hunniford (80) tells the story of an to use public transport, footpaths and cycle sion for development, it’ll be about tree-plant- encounter with a 91-year-old fan of the paths and schools need to be delivered. Even ing, open spaces and energy efficiency. If we are show in Dublin. When Gloria quizzed her when funding is available, the improvements renewing the contract for getting the bins emp- why she was an admirer of LW, she take so long that it seems like they will never tied, it will be about improving recycling. replied: “Because you talk about sex and come. The Conservative team at Maidstone will Antisocial behaviour, flytipping, planning en- we were never allowed to.” forcement and littering are in our sights. The redouble efforts to get infrastructure delivered. OR Bearsted’s new Methodist message will be simple. Behave, be responsible, We will lead a plan to bring town centre in- minister, Slovakian Robert Zachar, the do not expect someone else to clear your rubbish F vestment and renewal. Shopping habits have posting has been a revelation. He tells the up. If not, then face the consequences. changed and the high street retail offering needs parish mag: “What I have learned so far Yet all good things come at a price so we will help to adapt. We’ll support regeneration pro- in Bearsted is that we, as a family, are not make sure that every penny of your council tax is jects to eliminate substandard social housing. By good at Zoom quizzes!” strengthening landscape protection policies, we put to work on your priorities. We are committed will work hard to protect rural communities and to keeping council tax low. There is much to do. Chin chin!
47 Sat 27th Nov - Sun 2nd Jan
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