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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling October 2016 No. 234

News Town’s footpaths are Homes repairs anger TENANTS in a housing block are angry about the lack of mainte- nance carried out by land-  ‘like a wall of death’ lords Golding Homes. 3 Invicta pupil on mend THE “poor condition” of pavements in Maidstone is condemning the dis- AN Invicta Grammar pupil who abled to a life behind closed doors, says a wheelchair user from the town. collapsed in a 10K race  is now recovering. 3 Alan Prince (79) and his wife Josie for fear of what might happen.” say the perilous surfaces around Alan, wheelchair-bound since their home in Farleigh Lane are an 2010 following a brain bleed, now Rio-style carnival obstacle course of hazards. spends hours sitting at the end of A RIO-style carnival was staged They say they have to negotiate their drive to snatch a conversation to celebrate the success-  uneven paving, grit, cambers, street with passers by. They claim Maid- ful Paralympics. 5 signs, limited dropped kerbs, drain stone’s poor pavements have worn covers and “pavement parkers”. out three wheelchairs in five years. They call the path outside their Josie added: “If the wheelchair Music fest ‘too loud’ home “The Rockies” and the other goes down a hole it will only go so THE Ramblin’ Man noise levels side of the road “The Wall of Death”. far before it tips and I can’t call on a breached licence guidlines The couple, who don’t have a car, huge amount of strength, particu- five times, we have learnt. 8 moved to Maidstone from larly as I get older.” seven years ago to make life easier, Josie simply asks: “Please can the trading, as they put it, “the streets of council do more for the disabled and MP’s lorry battle London for pavements full of pot- let us get out. In winter you don’t ex- MP Helen Whately has called for- holes”. pect to get out so much, but on these mgovernment action on  Josie (77), who has painful summer days, Alan sits on the drive illegal lorry parking. 16 spondylitis of the spine, is finding it for hours and that’s not healthy.” hard to push her husband even a Maidstone, its county town?” A County Council short distance. They say a trip to get a rare treat of spokesman said the town centre New school head As a result they avoid Maidstone jellied eels from a stall a few hun- streets are inspected each month RICHARD Owen is the ne head of and travel to Tonbridge instead. dred yards away is like “dicing with with defects noted and pavement Maplesden Noakes Josie said: “The pavements there death”. Josie said: “The Tonbridge condition is a “high priority”. School in Maidstone.  …are like walking on air by com- Road by Lloyds chemist gets so nar- Anyone with problems can con- 32 parison. Why is the county council row that I have to walk with Alan in tact KCC on its website at not doing more for the disabled in the road. I just don’t look behind me kent.gov.uk. Stones’s cancer cash MAIDSTONE United fans have raised money for the Council reveals £4.2m budget shortfall Bobby Moore charity. 46 CUTS of £4.2million are feared and “tough choices” are in- said: “The council’s income is Will the Mela move? in Maidstone residents’ services evitable. being cut by an increasing ORGANISERS of the Street Mela as the borough council looks to Local MP Helen Whately said amount over the next four hopeto return to Mote plug a massive hole in its budget. she is concerned by MBC’s an- years…the shortfall will mean Park next year. 47 Maidstone Borough Council nouncement, adding: “I’d hope services need to be cut or pro- (MBC) claims rate-payers will be the council can resolve its finan- vided in different ways.” Obituaries 34 fully involved in finding ways to cial troubles without cuts to MBC blames cuts in funding plug the shortfall in the light of frontline services. Are there effi- since 2010 and an austerity pro- changes to government funding, ciencies behind the scenes?” gramme which will acceler- Comment 36-37 but MBC has admitted that cuts A statement from the council ate in the next five years. 4 Crime Reports 47 Victory for Ukip A GPS system was stolen from a vehicle in Park Wood; tyres were UKIP’S John Barned (73) has won lets down on a Ford Focus in the Maidstone council Shepway Courtenay Road; an orange bi- south by-election, beating the Con- cyle was taken from an address servatives by more than 22%. in Road; bank card, ID YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT The seat was left free by the death and money were stolen from a [email protected] of Ukip Cllr Dave Sergeant in 01622 690290  store in Fremlin Walk. 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent May. 6

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2 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Runner Sam Residents’ fury as flats recovering AN INVICTA Grammar School pupil whose body shut repairs are left undone down 200 yards from the finish line in a 10k race is out of in- TENANTS at Broadway Heights tensive care and back home. in Maidstone are concerned about Sam Bartholomew (18) was maintenance of the flats by land- rushed to lords Golding Homes, says hospital Labour councillor Paul Harper. after falling Cllr Harper says they have raised ill during issues about the basement, the run in drainage on the patio and electric- Gravesend ity meter cupboards at the block of on August 5. flats behind McDonalds on the His par- Tonbridge Road, but are not satis- ents were fied with the action taken. watching Cllr Harper, who represents Fant the race and Ward, said: “The meter cupboards saw Sam gave a thumbs up as are in the main entrance corridor he entered the final stretch of and have big doors with a sign on, the race, but then collapsed . which says they must be kept They realised the serious- locked, but the doors will not close ness of Sam’s condition as he and were open to anyone to inter- was rushed to Darent Valley fere with.” Cllr Paul Harper shows off the meter cupboard, which should be secured Hospital, Dartford, where his There are 58 flats in the block wildly beating heart and er- next to Maidstone West rail station. services at Golding Homes, added: dinating a programme of improve- ratic body temperature forced A spokesman for Golding Homes “We have experienced a number of ment work over the coming weeks. doctors to put him into a coma. said they appreciated work had repair problems at Broadway This includes communal patio Dad Terry, of West Malling, been delayed because of sub-con- Heights. drainage, upgrading the lighting to said: “We are pleased to say tracting issues. “Due to the complexity of some the communal areas with new LED Sam is out of intensive care It now plans to cover the cup- of these issues, progress has been fittings, as well as repairs to en- and progressing well at home.” boards in the main entrance with slower than we would have trance doors, glazing panels and Invicta sixth-former Sam mesh so that the meters are pro- wanted, and I recognise this has works to service areas in the base- suffered multiple organ failure tected but can still be read. been frustrating for our residents. ment, which we are trying to com- possibly due to dehydration. Chris Francis, head of property “To put this right, we are co-or- plete as quickly as possible.” Family Run 15% NEW DISCOUNT Business ON COLLECTED CASH ORDERS OVER £15

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Maidstone Borough Council some of the tough choices that will The statement added: “Council- (MBC) claims rate-payers will be have to be made.” lors and senior staff have been ‘Some services will fully involved in finding ways to MBC blames cuts in funding looking at ways to try to close the find the shortfall in the light of since 2010 and an austerity pro- remaining £1.3million gap. As part be reduced’ - leader changes to government funding. gramme which will accelerate in of this, each service was categorised CLLR Fran Wilson, leader of the But MBC has admitted cuts and the next five as essential, important, useful or council (pictured), said: “Since tough choices are inevitable. years. not essential. The standard of the 2010, we have been forced to Local MP Helen Whately (right) The state- service, both current and desired, make significant changes due to said she was concerned by the an- ment adds: was then classed as gold, silver or cuts in government funding. nouncement, adding: “Making cuts “The revenue bronze.” “We’ve shared would be of great concern. support Kent county councillor Gary services with other “I’d hope the council can resolve grant that the Cooke said: “I sympathise greatly councils to provide its financial troubles without cuts council re- with the situation the council is in value for money to frontline services. Are there effi- ceives from and as a member of the county and achieved sav- ciencies behind the scenes?” the govern- council I am well aware of the chal- ings with efficien- A statement from the council ment has al- lenges they face, but I am a little cies and changing said: “The council’s income is being ready fallen surprised that MBC finds itself the way we work cut by an increasing amount over and will be axed altogether from short. rather than service cuts. We have the next four years, leading to the next year.” “You’d have to look at all those worked hard to protect front-line shortfall in the council’s ‘revenue The authority claims it can grow discretionary ‘nice to do’ services services as much as possible. budget’ which pays for services to revenues by creating extra house- and at the back office and support “This has become harder each year and it is now inevitable that residents. holds though its housebuilding roles. I am happy to work more some services will have to be re- “The shortfall will mean services programme but “scope for growth closely with the borough council duced over the next four years. It’s need to be cut or provided in dif- in the short term is limited”. with them in terms of those areas, essential that residents play an ac- ferent ways and standards. The council is unable to raise in order to minimise any impact on tive role in this process. We hope “Senior councillors and officers council tax above a certain govern- frontline service users.” ment-set threshold without a refer- that as many people as possible have already looked at what A series of roadshows led by will come along to the roadshows changes are possible. A series of endum. councillors will be held at venues MBC says potential budget cuts or take part in the online survey to roadshows are now being planned around the borough, starting this share their views.” so that residents can be involved in of £2.9million have been identified. month. Quick fix repairs no good, say residents RESIDENTS forced to wait more than 60 years for their road to be resurfaced claim the county council has met their protests with little more than a “quick fix”. Homeowners in Valentine Road and Hubble Drive complained bit- terly when temporary patching re- New location pairs left them walking in stone chippings, while weeds were left a hit for Social growing through the cracks. THE Social, a boutique festival ded- Residents agree county council icated to the best in electronic contractors did apply weed killer dance music, turned the Kent and sweep the road in response to Showground, , into a nos- their concerns, but say both were in- talgic re-creation of the first gener- effectual and revealed the fragility of the temporary repairs – sparing ation of massive rave parties. Held on September 9-10, it head- their biggest criticism for the county Residents of Valentine Road insist that planned repairs are inadequate council’s pledge to resurface the cul lined Carl Cox, Goldie and Roni de sac after April 2017 with a new of the same” and probably not long- not be able to park elsewhere while Size. “speedier” surface. lasting. the work is carried out, because they The event catered to a young au- In a letter from residents, they “Given that very little, if any, will not be able to walk out to their dience, but also those old enough to say: “The consensus among resi- maintenance has been done on this vehicles easily. If the repairs were to recall the days when massive dance dents is that your proposal to use road since it was first laid in 1957, be done in the traditional way events in warehouses and fields micro asphalt to resurface this road surely the residents who have paid (using fine asphalt, wet rolled), half were at the cutting edge of popular in the next financial year commenc- their taxes all this time deserve the road could be done at a time, culture. ing April 2017 is the ‘least appropri- something better than a quick fix?” leaving access for residents during The September get-together at ate’ option.” They also complain that while the the process.” Detling replaces the staging of the They say the process requires traf- county council says micro asphalt They say a site meeting between same event last year in Mote Park – fic to “roll in” the finished surface, has been used elsewhere, they have residents, a KCC representative – a venue which attracted noise com- whereas they live in a no-through not been told where, which means with technical expertise and some plaints and allegations of drug use. road, adding: “You cite the premise they cannot view it or get any feed- authority to deliver agreed actions Fan Emily Bennett, pictured that this quicker process will mean back. – and an elected representative for above with sister Megan, said: “It less disruption to road users, resi- They say a more appropriate the ward should be held to resolve was really great. There were lots of dents, local businesses and the process for a residential road would the matter satisfactorily. different arenas to cater for differ- emergency services. In effect, the be wet-rolled fine asphalt, adding: KCC was approached for a com- ent music tastes. process means that it will be “more “Elderly and disabled residents will ment but did not respond. “For me Majistrate and High Contrast were the highlights.”

4 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Love’s in the air Ugg Boots looking at music school tired? ROMANCE was in the air at this year’s Kent Music Summer School, with students providing a musical backdrop to a surprise marriage Give your Ugg Boots a proposal and a golden wedding anniversary celebration. Former student Matthew Rogers new lease of life proposed to his girlfriend Teresa We can clean, Salamonczyk in the grounds of Be- nenden School before the wind re-waterproof and freshen band concert. your boots ready for Autumn Oboe player Matthew, from West Malling, attended the summer school from 2003 to 2007 and be- Give us a call on came friends with flautist Teresa, from Maidstone, on the course in 01622 870111 2005, when they played in the Kent Youth Wind Orchestra. Now 27, Matthew Rogers and his fiancee to arrange they live in London and plan to marry in April next year. Teresa Salamonczyk FREE Matthew contacted the summer sembles but I don’t think anything school manager Phill Hyde to ask if will quite top playing in KYWO.” collection they could make a nostalgic return A week after the proposal, the to Benenden, where he popped the summer school’s tutor Alan Vincent question in the grounds before the had a second romantic surprise at a concert. Teresa, a teacher, accepted sell-out concert. He announced to and Phill announced their engage- the audience that he was celebrating ment to a packed concert hall where his 50th wedding anniversary that they were serenaded by the choir. week and the choir performed the Phill said: “Lifelong friendships 1966 hit, God Only Knows by the www.iron-maids.co.uk develop between those with similar Beach Boys. The piece received huge musical interests. We are delighted applause as flowers were presented for Matthew and Teresa and wish to Alan’s wife, Carole. them all the best in the future.” Kent Music Summer School is “When our new fence looks this good, Matthew said: “I have continued planning celebrations of its own to play music in a number of en- next summer at its 70th anniversary. is maintenance free and guaranteed for 25 years, it’s a no-brainer”

Maidstone gets into carnival mood Rio-style to celebrate Paralympics HUNDREDS of people from Maidstone got into the carnival spirit – Rio style – to celebrate the Paralympics and sport for the disabled. Drummers from community band the Old School Samba added to the carnival atmosphere Our customers tell us they’re glad they chose at the Market Hall with their infectious samba reggae music, while Maid- Colourfence, and were delighted with our stone Rebel Wheelchair Basketball Team showed off their skills. range of colours. They love that our fences are Representatives from Maidstone Swimming Club for the Disabled, Cross- tested to withstand merciless weather – even roads, the Centre for Independent Living Kent, Maidstone United Football wind gusts of up to 130mph. They enjoy how it 25yr Club and British Guide Dogs were among those offering advice about what is maintenance free, and they love the peace of GUARANTEE they offer. mind provided by its 25-year guarantee*. For The Access for All event was organised by Golding Vision, which is the a lifetime of trouble-free garden enjoyment, community arm of Kent housing provider Golding Homes. make yours a Colourfence garden. It aims to support the health and wellbeing of people with disabilities, their carers, family and friends. Stallholder Jen Lane, Volunteer Services Co-ordinator for Crossroads, said: For a free no-obligation quote, please contact us now. “This was a lovely opportunity to inform people about our services and a lot 01622 233322 of people were interested in our volunteer roles.” www.colourfencemidkent.co.uk Pictured here are Maidstone’s mayor Cllr Derek Butler with Golding Homes’ Chief Executive Peter Stringer and the Old School Samba. *Terms & Conditions apply please ask for details

Maidstone Town October 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Ukip’s massive win for seat

,UKIP retained the Shepway south housing and the environment. lief road, which he believes is crucial seat on Maidstone Borough Coun- “But I was very, very pleased to to easing traffic issues at Willington How you voted cil, hours after a leading independ- have done as well we did and it is Street, Senacre and Shepway. Shepway South (Maidstone) ent crossed the floor to the largely down to the hard work of Fellow Ukip councillor Eddie result: Eurosceptic party. the 20 or so people who worked on Powell said: “It was a very interest- Ukip: 432 votes 45.2% (+1.3) John Barned (73), of , the campaign with me.” ing result. Out on the doorstep we Con: 215 votes 22.5% (+0.2) swept in with a massive 45.2% of the The by-election was sparked by could tell which way people were Lab: 183 votes 19.2% (-8.3) vote, leaving the Tory candidate be- the sudden death of Dave Sergeant intending to vote. Ind: 88 votes 9.2% (+9.2) hind by almost 23%. The majority in May this year. “In some cases, they’re voting for Lib Dem: 41 votes 3.9% (-2.4) for Mr Barned was more than 200. Tory Bob Hinder fought on a plat- the person not the party, and that Turnout: 21.8% The election result on September form calling for a Leeds-Langley re- may have been the case here.” 8 came hours after respected and member Gordon Newton announced he would be joining Ukip. ‘Homes plans persuaded me to switch’ Mr Barned (below), who is re- tired, defected AN independent borough councillor from the Tories has joined Ukip. last year, and has Gordon Newton, the respected served as a bor- member for Downswood and ough councillor. Otham, said he could no longer work He also with the independent group on the worked in local council because of planned housing government as a in his area. housing officer Cllr Newton, of Downswood, said: and later in a community role. “I have done a good job for the peo- He said: “We fought this cam- ple of Downswood and Otham and paign for six weeks and I must they voted for the candidate and not admit that in the last week of the the group. campaign I felt that we could do it. “I took some time thinking about the decision and I did not rush it.” ward to “oblivion”. Borough councillor Gordon “There was so much positive re- He added: “Ukip have stated Newton, left. who has left the action on the doorstep. I stood on He said that a proposed housing development at Wood green policies and that was one of Independent group for Ukip, with local issues that I know something the reasons for crossing the floor.” about as a local person – roads, would condemn part of his Otham Cllr Eddie Powell HOMES FOR SALE IN MAIDSTONE THIS AUTUMN

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Maidstone Town October 2016 7 News downsmail.co.uk Ramblin’ Man ‘was too loud’ NOISE levels were exceeded during the Ramblin’ Man rock festival in Mote Park, it has been revealed.

Details acquired by bor- ganisers of the Ramblin’ Man. ough councillor Mike Revell show “Unfortunately, this meant the that on the first day of the July onus was on residents to complain, weekender, the council’s own mon- rather than Maidstone Borough itor, at Mote House across the park, Council officers to intervene.” recorded breaches in the noise lev- In a response to Mrs Weston’s els laid down in the organiser’s li- complaints, Maidstone Borough cence five times. Council said: “We had … our own Cllr Revell says the public has a noise enforcement team monitor- right to know, particularly those ing sound levels. We are gathering who registered complaints with the … acoustic reports at present and council as far afield as will be working closely with the or- Downswood, Vinters Park, Grove ganiser.” Green and Bearsted. They were MBC’s officers found the venue told that lessons would be learned, to have been well run over the two but the results of noise testing were days of the festival and said the not yet known. Music fans enjoyed the Ramblin’ Man festival, but Cllr new event company organising it Sheila Weston, at Briar Fields, Mike Revell (inset) says noise levels were excessive were “keen to learn from the issues claims her complaint was met by that have arisen and a full debrief the council as little more than fines of the venue the noise did visit its contract, will be undertaken…”. “tough luck”, with a reminder that seem acceptable. However, he in- avoiding intermediaries, after the An MBC statement supplied to the event was well run, promoted sists the council now needs to set a event’s managing agent declared it- Downs Mail conceded “some diversity, attracted visitors and lower acceptable noise level to sat- self bankrupt in 2015. He says the minor breaches were recorded” but more than £1.5m to the town. She isfy not only those attending, but noise issue of neighbours must be the authority awaits independent said: “Is it any wonder no one com- also those forced to endure “the air- taken more seriously. The news corroboration. MBC enivironmen- plains about the noise levels from borne mix of four bands and their was that Maidstone Council was tal enforcement manager Martyn Mote Park?” heavy bass line playing at once”. ready to intervene, but that was not James added: “We always welcome Cllr Revell – one of the council- He has also called on the council the case. Yes, there was an inde- residents’ views on events taking lors who all received free tickets to to clarify exactly how the event pendent sound engineer on-site, place in the borough...” attend – says from within the con- benefits local taxpayers and to re- but he was being paid for by the or- Letters, pages 36&37 Police fund gift A CHARITY specialising in trauma Two jailed for violent attack in alley counselling and based in Maid- TWO thugs have been jailed after Swan Street in Tenterden, handed stone has become the latest organi- a vicious attack on a man in themselves in to the police a few sation to benefit from a donation Maidstone which left the victim days later. from . with a fractured skull. Detective Sergeant Jason Booth, Detective Inspector Lee White- Jonathan Sills and Oliver the senior investigating officer for head from the Kent and Seri- Bloomsmar both admitted this case, said: “The attack ous Crime Directorate presented a inflicting grievous bodily harm and Bloomsmar and Sills committed cheque for £500 to Sandie Turner were each sentenced to 15 months was cowardly and left the victim in from the Rubicon Cares charity. in prison at Maidstone Crown a considerable amount of pain. Rubicon Cares provides trauma Court. Jonathan Sills and Oliver Bloomsmar “It is fortunate that he has counselling for victims of serious The court heard that the assault managed to make a full recovery crime across Kent and Medway. happened after the victim and two repeatedly kicked. from this. The outcome could have The donation has been provided offenders became involved in a The victim was later found in the been much more severe. through the Kent Police property verbal dispute in Gabriel’s Hill. alley by passers-by, who called an “It is fit and proper that these fund. Money is raised through the The victim walked away ambulance. At hospital he was two men have received a custodial sale of items at auction that have however, as he was walking in an found to have a fractured skull and sentence for this assault.’ been seized during police opera- alleyway off Palace Avenue, he was bruising to his back. The pair were sentenced on tions and charities and local organ- hit over the back of the head and Bloomsmar (25), of Jubilee Field September 2 for the assault on July isations can apply for a donation. fell to the floor where he was in Tenterden, and Sills (25), of 13, 2014. Call to share care for young asylum seekers KENT County Council says the ferred to other placing huge pressure on the It has also called for clarity and Government must act to move local authorities area’s foster carers, social workers, amendments to other resettlement more asylum-seeking children on since the volun- school places, accommodation and programmes. to foster homes out of the county. tary scheme healthcare. Cllr Oakford said: “We do the In a critical statement, it says the came in – failing He added: “The voluntary best we can in Kent but such high National Transfer Scheme – intro- even to keep scheme is not working and Kent is numbers place huge pressures on duced two months ago on a vol- pace with new continuing to care for a hugely dis- our services. untary basis – is not being arrivals, which proportionate number of these “The transfer scheme must be honoured by other councils and topped 90 in the young people. made mandatory so that the num- needs to be made mandatory. same period. Peter Oakford “While we are very grateful to bers are shared fairly. This will im- Kent, which is caring for more The county those authorities who have signed prove the level of support offered than 1,400 unaccompanied mi- council’s Peter Oakford, cabinet up to this scheme, the vast major- to these vulnerable young people, grant young people, has seen just member for specialist children’s ity have not stepped up and ac- rather than placing unsustainable 48 under-18s permanently trans- services, says the failing system is cepted their responsibilities.” pressures on a few authorities.”

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Maidstone Town October 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Assault case THREE men have been charged with an assault which took place in Hospice loery comes Maidstone on Tuesday, September 6. A man reportedly sustained a bro- ken jaw when he was assaulted by three men in Upper Stone Street. up trumps for David David Ademiju (26), of Brewer Street, Maidstone; Samuel Grief (23), A FORMER postman from Maid- of Lucerne Street, Maidstone and stone nearly missed out on a Joseph Jabatie (28), of Thackeray £25,000 prize after failing to pro- Road Larkfield have been arrested vide his forwarding address. and charged with assault. Fortunately for 57-year-old David Mr Jabatie was charged with as- Stuart, when the organiser’s of saulting a police officer. All were re- Demelza’s monthly lotto and super- manded in custody. draw arrived at his old address in Pauth Booth, of Vinters Park to hand over his Demelza, with cheque, they persevered and in six Traveller camps Maria, Stuart and weeks tracked him down. TRAVELLERS setupcampbeside And for David, who took early re- Myrtle and the the Lockmeadow complex in the tirement from his job as a postman new camper van third incursion of its kind in a week. in Maidstone after being seriously A group caused disruption when lottery and gaming, said: “A neigh- running out of ideas. If a prize re- injured in a motorcycle accident in they parked at Tesco in bour told me that Mr Stuart had mains unclaimed after six months, Grove Green in 2010, knew just how on September 3, and another group moved – possibly to east Kent, but it goes back into the lottery fund.” he would spend the money: a new descended on Medway Street car they didn’t have a forwarding ad- Mr Stuart’s mother Myrtle, who park. At Lockmeadow, a number of camper van so that he and partner dress. I discovered he had worked lives in Street, Maid- motor homes were parked behind Maria can tour Britain and Europe. for the Post Office, so we tried con- stone, has been a member of the the building, a stone's throw from David, who signed up to the tacting them, but to no avail. We Demelza lottery for many years and the crown court, on September 9. Demelza Lotto while recovering also tried 192, Facebook and BT di- joined David and Maria for a tour from his accident at Maidstone Hos- rectory enquiries, but drew a of the hospice near Sittingbourne – pital, said: “I have always felt pas- blank.” Kent’s only children’s hospice – Thefts from cars sionately about the work Demelza Mr Stuart paid his lottery mem- when he visited to show off his new SEVEN cars were targeted by does with children and decided my bership by direct debit and it was a “prize”. thieves in the Maidstone area over monthly contributions would go letter from Demelza forwarded by He now plans to spread the word two days with satnavs, tools and an some way to help. I never really ex- his bank that finally revealed his about Demelza’s lottery when he is mp3 player taken. Kent Police are pected to win anything – I’ve never whereabouts. Mr Booth said: “We out and about in the van. He said: warning car owners to take steps to won anything before in my life!” were so relieved. We’ve never had a “I’m so thrilled by the win, I want guard their belongings. Paul Booth, Demelza’s head of situation like this before and were to give something back.”

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10 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News £6k bill for fraud case PE teacher A FORMER PE teacher who spent fee for the use of its football pitches. £6,000 from school funds on his In February 2014, equipment private coaching business has been bearing the name of his business ordered to pay the money back was discovered in a disused chang- after being convicted of fraud. ing room on school premises. It was Steve Restarick (44), of Sutton also stored in a school pavilion in Road, Maidstone, worked as the boxes to which only Restarick had head of PE at Maidstone Grammar access. School between 2009 and 2014, but An assessment of department in- during this time used school money voices found purchases for the Pre- to fund a private sports coaching mier Football School going through business. the school’s PE budget. He denied the offence but a jury As well as the charge of fraud, found him guilty at Inner London Restarick was charged with three Crown Court where he was later counts of witness intimidation and given an 18 month sentence. He was one count of theft by an employee. also ordered to complete 200 hours A jury acquitted him of these of unpaid work. charges. The court heard that Restarick Investigating officer DC Simon joined the Barton Road school as a Powell said: “Restarick was un- teacher in 2002. In 2005 he set up a doubtedly a very talented, popular football training school, called Pre- and respected teacher, but he took mier Football School, in partnership advantage of his position to grow with the establishment. his own business over a number of It was agreed that Restarick could years. run the business on school grounds, “Restarick’s actions meant a with the profits evenly divided. school which was funded by the tax- However this agreement ended in payer was deprived of money that the next generation 2009. should have gone to its pupils. From this point on Restarick was “The investigation into this was instructed to fund the venture him- lengthy and complex and it and the self, with the only income received sentence he has received are entirely by the school being an agreed rental appropriate.” Spa hotel plan agreed A PLAN for a lavish spa hotel has been approved by councillors, in spite of concerns by conservationists. Ciaran O’Quigley (48), the owner of Mu Mu’s in Week Street and the mastermind behind the hotel concept, thanked Maidstone Council for tak- ing the brave decision. Ahead of the meeting he said that while tourism played a big part in the future plans for Maidstone, there was no high-end accommodation in the town centre. He is pictured at the site. However, Maid- stone Council’s plan- ning committee has agreed that the 36- bedroom, luxury spa hotel can be built at the lower end of new ranges Brewer Street, behind St Francis’ Roman Catholic Church. It new exciting styling will include treat- ment rooms, a retro cinema, Roman bath and a 100-cover restaurant, pro- new viding an estimated 20 jobs. dynamic store layout The work will involve the demolition of St Francis’ School building, which Historic England and the council’s conservation officer expressed concerns about. Money will be donated to St Francis’ Church for a new hall. The proposed 1930s-style Hotel Mu Mu was recommended for approval by planning officers and was met with positive feedback from councillors and others keen to see the £6m investment in the county town. Cllr Naghi said: “The scheme will give a ‘wow’ factor and a much-needed point of interest to visitors stepping off the train to walk into town.” Before the proposal went to committee, parish priest Canon Luke Smith www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk said he supported the plan, saying he believed it will be an asset to the town, with an agreement in place between Mr O’Quigley and the diocese that would be “beneficial to all concerned”. It is understood the building will take 18 months to complete and Mr Upholstery | Dining | Beds O’Quigley hopes that work will begin in early January. Bedroom | Accessories

Maidstone Town October 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk Wartime art AN EXHIBITION based on two paintings in Maidstone Museum’s collection goes on show this month. Mystery over car key Coming Home: Conflict and Care in 1916 is a First World War exhibi- tion featuring two works by the artist Frank Hyde. The paintings are Trones Wood failure in Maidstone and Wounded Soldiers Arriving at Maidstone East. A MASS failure of key fobs across found interference from a resident's They are accompanied by items, Maidstone has left motorists faulty device which transmits a TV sounds and other images from the scratching their heads in bewilder- signal to other sets in the home was conflict. ment. to blame. The device was switched The exhibition opens on Satur- No one seems to know why the off and the key fobs worked. day, September 24 and runs until devices have failed, despite having The Timpson’s branch inside the the new year. previously been in working order. Aylesford Sainsbury store report- The issue was first reported earlier edly did a roaring trade in replace- this month at Quarry Wood Indus- ment key fob batteries. Driving ban trial Estate in Aylesford, when mo- Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch A MAIDSTONE woman who torists visiting stores such as PC (below), a regular failed to give a breath test has been World, Halfords and Sainsbury shopper at banned from driving for three were unable to lock their cars. But Quarry Wood, years and given a community serv- there were other reports of fob fail- said she had not ice order. ure in Romney Place, Maidstone, been contacted Frankie Jo Schock (29), from St and Alexander Grove in Kings Hill, by any con- Peter’s Street, denied failing to pro- according to police. stituents. She vide a breath specimen but was A Kent Police spokesman said: “It strange one and I have never come added: “I shop convicted at West Kent Magis- doesn’t appear that the Aylesford across it before. there fairly often trates’ Court. Retail Park was reported to us. We “I wouldn’t have thought the big and it hasn’t hap- Magistrates imposed the ban and received two calls on September 1 retailers would be very happy if pened to me.” ordered her to carry out 79 hours of reporting issues with car keys not their customers were using the car An RAC spokesman said: “Some- unpaid work in the community. working in Romney Place, Maid- park and not being able to lock their times our engineers will be called to She was also ordered to pay £85 stone, and in Alexander Grove, cars. It’s bound to knock their busi- reports like this and when they tow costs and a £60 victim surcharge. Kings Hill. However, no offences ness.” the car a little way up the road, the have been reported.” In recent years, householders ex- fob starts working again.” For more local news The key fob failure was news to perienced a similar problem in a res- Ofcom has investigated the Maid- www.downsmail.co.uk Kerry Heard, of Pat Heard Garage idential area of Southampton. In that stoneincidents, but has been unable Service in Bearsted, who said: “It’s a case, the government agency Ofcom to find a direct cause of the problem. Sim3 Mobile Service

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12 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Library stops CONCERNS about changes to Motorcyclist, 73, tells Kent’s mobile library service have been taken on board, according to the county council. It says changes have been made of M20 bridge drama to the service following its first month in operation. INJURED biker Jim Shaw has de- Launching the revised service, scribed how he threw himself off Mike Hill, the county council’s cab- his bike to avoid the impact when inet member for community serv- a footbridge crashed in front of ices, says mobile libraries will call him on the M20. at more than 300 locations a month, The 73-year-old had an amazing with extended stopping times, and, escape with only minor injuries for the first time, on Saturdays. when the structure was hit by a Cllr Hill said: “Each stop is now lorry carrying a digger near junc- visited fortnightly from convenient tion 4 for Leybourne on Saturday, locations such as community cen- August 27. tres, village halls, post offices, He was heading from Maidstone shops and schools. Some stops are towards London at about 70mph now on Saturdays, and we have ex- when “chaos broke loose” and “bits tended our stopping times in many were flying everywhere”. The M20 bridge collapse as captured by the BBC and locations to give people more time Mr Shaw said he slid along the left, motorcyclist Jim Shaw, who was injured and flexibility. If people can’t get to road alongside his Yamaha motor- erupted be- 2pm. Highways England and emer- their local library, the library can cycle, narrowly missing the col- tween junc- gency teams worked to clear the come to them.” lapsed bridge. He was rescued by tion four for debris as the motorway remained emergency crews and taken to Tun- Leybourne closed overnight. bridge Wells Hospital where he and junction The road eventually re-opened at Police donate was treated for three broken ribs 3 for Borough Green. No-one was 5pm next day, but closed again A NEW community centre is £500 and released after four days. seriously injured. throughout the following weekend better off, thanks to a police sale of The Thamesmead resident had Police declared a major incident, so that the remaining part of the seized and lost property. The Tovil been to a bikers’ café in Maidstone closing the road in both directions footbridge overhanging the motor- Community Centre, recently and was planning to return home and leading to a 15-mile tailback of way could be dismantled. opened and run by the YMCA in via Wrotham when the crash show- bank holiday weekend traffic. The work was completed ahead Barfreston Close, received the do- ered 170 tonnes of concrete on to Officers began turning round ve- of schedule by 100 staff working nation from the Kent Police prop- the London-bound carriageway at hicles on the London-bound car- around the clock and the road re- erty fund. about noon. Two lorries were riageway about an hour after the opened 14 hours earlier than It will be used to buy new equip- crushed in the chaos, which incident, and the queues cleared by planned. ment for youth dance and football.

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‘Arrival‘Arrival of a ConvoyConvoy of WoWWoundedounded SolSoldiersdiers at MaidstMaidstoneone EastEast’,’, byby FrankFrank HydeHyde newly qualified or experienced. Saturday 24 September 2016 to Saturday 7 January 2017 An eexhibitionxhibition eexploringxploring the experiencesexperiences

of the peoplpeoplee in two paintingspaintings of 1916 ‘Trones‘Trones Wood’,WWoood’, bbyy FFrankrank HyHydede Hours and rate of pay to be in the MuseumMuseum’s’s collectionscollections - ‘Trones‘Trones Wood’,Wood’d’’’,, a battlebbattl ttle scene fromfrom the Somme ‘If the Kaiser Should Come’ and ‘Arrival‘A‘Arrival of a ConvoyConvoy of WWoundedounded negotiated Saturday 8 October, 14:00 - 15:00 SolSoldiersdiers at MaidstoneMaidstone EastEast’.’. Hear a fascinating illustrated talk by military FREE historian Victor Smith on the land, sea and air defences across Kent in the First World War. SupportSupporteded by:by: Please call 01732 617 177 £5 per person, £4 concessions and MMF members. Booking essential. or email your CV to and the Queen’sQueen’s Own RoyalRoyal WestWest KentKent RegimentRegiment Museum TrustTrust [email protected] TuesdayTTuuesday - SaturSaturdayday 10:00 - 17:00, SundaSundayy 12:00 - 16:00, MondaMondayy Closed Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery,Gallery, St FFaith’saith’s Street,Street, Maidstone, Kent,Kent, ME14 1LH facebook.com/MaidstoneMuseumfacebook.com/MaidstoneMuseum @MaidstoneMuseum p 01622 602838 wwwwww.maidstonemuseum.org.maidstonemuseum.org

Maidstone Town October 2016 13 News downsmail.co.uk Vandals put lives at risk on river

MINDLESS vandals are putting them. They don’t seem to realise seem to realise that someone could lives at risk by taking essential that they are essential pieces of life- lose their life if these vital pieces of safety equipment from river and saving equipment. It’s vital that equipment are not there.” parks in Maidstone. they are available if It is also a criminal offence to re- Since April last year Maidstone someone’s life is in move such items. Council has had to replace more danger.” Maidstone Council provides than 200 lifebuoys, throw bags and Her comments equipment at 55 lifebuoy stations lifelines in the area, at a cost of more have been echoed along the banks of the River Med- than £7,000. by Maidstone busi- way from Tovil to The Malta Inn at The water aids have been a life- nessman Ben Lon- Allington Lock, near Aylesford, and saver on numerous occasions – and don, who risked his popular stretches of water at The were used in five rescues from the life to dive into the Lees, , Bridge, Mote in 2015 alone. Medway on August 10 to save a Park and the lake at Mallards Way. Borough councillor Marion Ring drowning man and then went back Items that have had to be re- (pictured) said: “Some people seem into the river to retrieve the life ring. placed since April last year include to think that these are toys or that He said: “These people are 48 lifebuoys, 87 throw bags and 72 it’s a game to mess about with thoughtless. They simply don’t lifelines. KFC seeks drive-thru Get fit to stay healthy FINGER-lickin' fast food chain plenty of residential accommoda- COUCH potatoes are reminded that meet the two-hours-and-30-minute KFC is looking for eight new tion. There are two formats - 82 something as simple as a 30-minute target, doing the things they enjoy. places to sell "So Good" chicken seater and 114 seater restaurant walk a week will reduce your A spokesman said: “Try breaking in Kent - and one is in Maidstone. with 30-40 parking spaces. In chances of getting cancer. it up into smaller chunks of time KFC, once known as Kentucky town centres, they want units of A local health centre says those from 10 minutes onwards. Fried Chicken, wants to open a up to 2,000 square feet. KFC who exercise the least have the most “Activitiescan range from an exer- restaurant in 59 locations across wants new sites in Maidstone, to gain both physically and mentally cise class, to swimming or working the south east and is looking for a Seveoaks, Bluewater, Swanley, from increasing their activity. out in the gym or going for a brisk possible drive-thru location in Ashford, Lee Green, Chatham The advice comes in the wake of walk, jogging in the park or playing town close to an A road. South and Gravesend. KFC was the government’s latest guideline of a round of golf.” KFC says it wants drive thru founded by business entrepre- 150 minutes of moderate activity a Tmactive, which runs Larkfield sites of almost half an acre, on re- neur Harland Sanders who set up week. Leisure Centre, is also offering a tail parks or the roadside with his franchise model in 1952. Tmactive is running a keep-fit chance to win a fitness tracking de- campaign in August to help people vice and membership.

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Maidstone Town October 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk MP tackles lorry ‘fly-parking’ MID Kent MP Helen Whately is calling on the government to act over the “annoying and dangerous” scourge of lorries parking illegally in Maidstone and surrounding villages. Local people are fed up with in- the M20. convenience, noise, litter and mess Mrs Whately added: “As people left behind by truckers – many of living in my area of Kent know, them foreign – using public spaces lorries fill every lay-by, line up on to park up. the hard shoulder of slip roads, In a House of crawl onto the verges of country Commons de- lanes and tuck themselves away in bate she had housing estates. called, Mrs “None of these places have facil- Whately urged ities for drivers, so as well as the the Department problem of huge HGVs parked on of Transport to the roadside, there’s also littering take action over and fouling of verges and hedges HGVs parking with human waste. in inappropri- “Residents nearby are under- ate places. standably upset, and it’s pretty bad She also asked roads minister for the drivers themselves. John Hayes to make the new lorry “I’m delighted that the minister area planned for Stanford west has committed to looking into how available for overnight parking – MP Helen Whately is calling for action on illegally-parked lorries many more lorry parking spaces not just when Operation Stack is in He will also consider improving problem has got steadily worse, are needed and how they can be force. enforcement and steps to tackle lit- and the time has come for a clamp- made available. Mr Hayes said a “fresh look” ter on roadsides. down.” “This was a really productive de- was needed at lorry parking and Mrs Whately said: “Fly-parking She cited the death last year of bate and I’m confident that fixing committed to undertake a study of – when lorries park outside of Susan Mellor (74), from Maidstone, fly-parking is now firmly on the the provision of lorry parking proper parking areas – is not just who crashed into a lorry parked on Department of Transport’s to-do spaces across the country. annoying, it’s dangerous. The the hard shoulder at Junction 7 of list.” Driving ban A DRIVER from Maidstone has £1.2m spent on blitzing potholes been banned from the road and AN incredible 997 potholes have fined more than £1,000 for a series of had to be filled on the county’s driving offences. roads since June, according to Kent Jason Boreham (32) admitted County Council. drink-driving, driving without in- The highways authority says it surance and using a vehicle without has spent £1.2m patching craters on an MOT certificate in Maidstone. Kent roads, alongside 22.4 miles of Boreham, from Bramble Close, larger road repairs. was stopped in his Kia Sportage on The council says it will spend an January 24. A breath test showed extra £3 million on pothole repairs that he had 45mg of alcohol in this year, with £1.4 million coming 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35. from the Government. West Kent Magistrates banned KCC says it has aimed to make him from driving for three years permanent repairs by cutting a and fined him £1,050. He must also small section of the road around the It also says pothole repairs, where It has called on the members of pay £170 in costs and a £50 victim hole, and filling it with Tarmac, possible, will then be protected by the public to report any potholes on- surcharge. something that has cost more than “surface dressing the whole road in line at www.kent.gov.uk/pothole- Soccer signing £1.2 million since June. the near future”. blitz. CHELSEA footballer Kerry Dixon will sign copies of his autobiogra- phy, Up Front, at Lashings sports Dismay at ducks’ death Charity ball bar in Maidstone from 7pm on A PARISH council chairman has the men set their dogs on them, A CHARITY Winter Ball is Wednesday, September 28. appealed for information after wild killing a vast amount. It appears being held at the Tudor Park Dixon will talk about his life on birds were killed in a sickening at- there is possibly only one mallard Hotel near Maidstone in aid of and off the pitch. The forward, who tack at a village duck pond. and one moorhen with chicks left.” Action on Hearing Loss on No- scored 193 goals in nine years at Cllr Vianne Gibbons, of Loose, She said: “I was appalled and vember 19. Chelsea, has previously spoken described the shocking devastation shocked to hear this news. The A drinks reception will be fol- about drug and gambling problems. at Brooks Field pond, caused by “a ducks have always been a lovely lowed by a three-course meal, group of men dressed in camou- feature in Loose. For them to be auction and raffle. There will be Crash chaos flage outfits with dogs.” killed in this way is very shocking.” live music from Sound Casters In a recent edition of the parish The millpond is looked after by and a disco until midnight. A CRASH between a car and a lorry council’s latest newsletter, Loose volunteers after being taken over Tickets cost £50 per person for caused traffic jams on the A229 Bish- Views, she said that the men threw with the adjacent Brooks Field in tables of 10. Telephone 07801 ops Way in Maidstone on Thursday, rocks and stones at the bulrushes. 2000 by the parish council. 971692 or send an email to September 8. It said: “As the ducks and their Kent police said they could not [email protected]. The road was partly blocked with chicks came out of the bulrushes, trace a report of the incident. heavy traffic northbound between the A20 at Broadway junction and Read the latest editons of the Downs Mail FREE online at www.downsmail.co.uk the White Rabbit roundabout.

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Maidstone Town October 2016 17 News downsmail.co.uk Store and pub trouble as travellers move in

MP supports TESCO in Grove Green was forced to shut early and police were new traders called to the Early Bird public MAIDSTONE and the Weald MP house after a disturbance report- visited Harpers Gift edly caused by members of the and Coffee Shop in the Market travelling community. Buildings, Maidstone. Locals reported caravans and She was invited by new owners other vehicles parked up in the car Frank Goodhind and Serena Parker. park near the staff entrance to the The couple come from diverse store on September 3 and, accord- backgrounds in the music industry ing to sources, flooded the toilets in- and interior design, with Frank side. being a composer for many years. Residents reported mess and Together they have big plans for human waste in the area. proached for a comment. filth everywhere. Harpers and hope to extend their Police confirmed they were called A Tesco spokesman said: “The “So the decision was made to love of artisan breads and cakes to to the popular Early Bird public store manager informed me that shut the store at 10pm which is a their coffee shop menu. house in the square next to Tesco travellers arrived on the site on Sat- couple of hours early for a Satur- Mrs Grant chatted to Frank, with and the nearby parade of shops. urday, stayed the night and were day.” whom she is pictured about his A spokesman said: "We re- gone by Sunday lunch time. Reports emerged the following plans for the business and bought sponded at 11.41pm on Saturday, “The store and local pub worked day that travellers had set up camp one of the unique greeting cards in September 3, to a report that a with the police to encourage them in the Medway Street car park in the shop. group of people entered the pub to move on, and they have not re- the town centre. They later moved The MP added: "It’s fantastic that and damaged a number of glasses. turned since.” on. Frank and Serena have continued "Officers attended and dispersed But a member of staff said: "They About nine caravans and motor to provide a platform for local the group. There were no injuries." made a right nuisance of them- homes moved on to the short-stay artists and craftspeople, which An Early Bird staff member con- selves, flooding the toilets and site overnight on September 5. Harpers has always been well firmed there had been trouble but thieving stock from the store. They Police were called out at 6.40pm known for. I wish them the best of the pub had reopened for business. just arrived in the car park and but no crimes were found to have luck with their future plans.” The pub's manager was ap- made a total mess of it. There was taken place.

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20 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Conman told to repay £68k CALLING ALL A HEARTLESS conman who in- ders’ companies, including Berkeley timidated people in Maidstone Driveways, based in Upchurch. into paying for shoddy workman- Saunders has 14 days to pay the ship on their driveways has been compensation to his victims or face ordered to repay £68,330. another 21 months’ imprisonment. LANDLORDS An investigation by Kent County He was also ordered to pay £63,000 Council’s (KCC) Trading Standards in costs in 14 day. Do you have a began in 2013 and led to 12 months’ Trading Standards operations imprisonment manager Clive Phillips said: “Where property in Maidstone? for Owen Saun- we can show that criminals have fi- ders (left) in June nancially benefited from their 2015. crimes, our financial investigators The case in- will track down assets and present volved four vic- their findings to the court. LET tims from “The Proceeds of Crime Act gives • We are currently Whitstable, who courts powers to make compensa- letting properties were conned out tion and confiscation orders and we of £28,500 by will ensure we use this legislation to faster than our Saunders, trading as Berkeley the full effect where criminals target competitors Driveways, for work which was so the residents of Kent. shoddy that an independent expert “We recommend that residents al- IN 8 estimated the value to be just £271. ways seek at least three quotes for DAYS However, KCC Trading Stan- work that you know needs to be car- dards continued its investigation ried out and do not be pressured to • On average our into Saunders’ activities and identi- sign a contract until you are ready fied other potential victims. and willing to do so. For a list of LET properties are let More than 50 were contacted and, companies approved by KCC, you within 2 weeks of these, 12 more victims came for- can contact checkatrade.com online ward with details of work carried or call 0333 0146 190.” out on their driveways. Mr Phillips described this as one A Proceeds of Crime process con- of the worst cases KCC Trading cluded at Canterbury Crown Court Standards had investigated. • 95% of our on Monday (12 September). He added: “Saunders used ag- IN 4 properties are let Victims from Whitstable, Broad- gressive tactics to get work, and DAYS stairs, Bearsted, Sevenoaks, Pad- then ignored customers' rights by at the asking dock Wood and provided increasing charges partway through price evidence of aggressive trading, a contract, restricting customers' shoddy workmanship and mislead- rights to cancel, and carrying out LET ing actions with regards to Saun- poor workmanship.” • Our tenants stay 1 on average 2 /2 years

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“IF YOUR CURRENT AGENT IS STRUGGLING TO LET YOUR PROPERTY THEN CALL ME TODAY” Justine Dale Hungry for food festival Lettings Manager THE county’s appetite for food was tries, and sweets. in evidence as queues formed on A castle spokesman said the Bearsted Office the roads to Leeds Castle for its Fan- event – run in conjunction with The Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ tastic British Food Festival. Great British Food Festival – contin- Crowds were up by 2,000 for the ues to be a success and is due to be- third event of its kind at the castle, come a fixed event on the castle’s Tel: 01622 737800 with 11,800 visitors over the three calendar. days. She added: “Crowds were greatly Office They were there for the cookery helped by the wonderful weather Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN demonstrations, talks, and 40 food on Sunday and, according to social stands selling speciality liqueurs, media, people seem to have had a wine, veg boxes, cheeses, chilli jams, lovely time, with some coming more Tel: 01622 671200 fudge, artisan breads, cakes, pas- than once.” www.ferrisandco.net

Maidstone Town October 2016 21 News downsmail.co.uk Hostel for the Thrills at model air show AN estimated 5,000 visitors turned out in the sun to sample some of the country’s most amazing scale models at Aerodrome at the weekend. Spectacular stunts and dozens of breathtaking displays by model air- homeless plan craft filled the air, flying over trade stalls and exhibitions. Mini-racing cars competed MAIDSTONE Residents’ Against in the depths of winter when the on a track and there were Homeless (MRAH) is planning a Maidstone Churches’ Winter Shel- some explosive pyrotechnics major housing conference in the ter scheme opens. to set the scene. This year’s town, in a bid to open a hostel. “People complain about the Southern Model Show, held in MRAH – which works alongside homeless on the streets, but there association with Maidstone Making a Difference Maidstone is no alternative for them as ac- Flying Club, also included an (MADM) – commodation is so scarce.” arts and craft village. was set up Having attended the launch of A spokesman said: “It was a last year by the Manchester Homelessness fantastic, fun-packed two Picture: Richard Foord 54-year-old Charter in May, MRAH hopes to days. It was great to see enthusiasts both novice and experienced, plus Amanda Sid- bring a similar event to Maidstone families enjoying the displays, including a stunning firework and night- well (left), in November, endorsed by Maid- time model air show.” from Penen- stone Council. den Heath. Amanda is also vocal about the After run- need for a Maidstone hostel for the ning two homeless, adding: “Maidstone Drugs charge Police assault charity shops people want to stay in Maidstone A MAN who supplied class A A 33-YEAR-OLD woman has ap- in Spain, she and we need to help make this drugs in Maidstone has been peared in court for being drunk is helping to run a charity shop for happen for the 40 or so people jailed for a year. and disorderly and assaulting a po- the town’s homeless at 49 Church sleeping rough on our streets, plus Shane James Henderson Myles lice officer in Maidstone. Street – opposite the M&S car park. the hundreds in temporary accom- admitted being concerned in the Alina Korosteliova was sen- She said: “People should not modation or ‘sofa surfing’ with supply of heroin and cocaine in tenced at Mid Kent Magistrates’ have to live on the streets in the friends and family.” the town on November 1, 2014. Court after admitting assaulting 21st century. Many organisations Anyone able to assist, provide Myles (26), from Richmond the officer in Bishops Way on July are doing sterling work, but there accommodation or storage for the Road in Gillingham, was sen- 11 and being drunk and disorderly is still more to be done as the num- shop should call Amanda on 01622 tenced to 12 months behind bars the following day. bers grow and services are 687414, 07769 268962, email at Medway Magistrates’ Court. She was sentenced to 90 days in stretched. There is nowhere for [email protected] or call He was also ordered to pay an prison, suspended for 18 months these people to go at night, except into the shop. £80 victim surcharge. with a £115 victim surcharge. ARTIFICIAL UPTO 20% GRASS SALE OFF

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Maidstone Town October 2016 23 News downsmail.co.uk Charity day is childs’ play WORKERS at Maidstone Town on the last day to raise money for Post Office made their last day it. We had a good laugh and quite a child’s play before moving to a lot of people were putting money new site. in the bucket so the fund must have Staff at the Bank Street store done well.” grabbed dummies and nappies and For some longer-serving col- dressed up as under-fives to help leagues, the post office move is counter clerk Jeanette Cooper raise their second as they worked at the money for the Oliver Fisher Special previous site in King Street, which Care Unit at Medway Maritime closed nearly 10 years ago. Hospital. Jeanette Cooper (second from right) with colleagues in fancy dress The Bank Street branch closed on The unit saved the life of her 17- mum Nicki, along with her mum, The fancy dress day marked the week premature grandson, Henry Sharon Terry. post office’s move to new premises Wednesday, August 17 with its suc- Cooper, of Downswood, whose Jeanette said: “Henry is doing within the WH Smith store on cessor opening next day. No jobs story touched Downs Mail readers’ fantastically well. He’s a happy lit- Week Street, less than 250m away. have been lost in the transfer. hearts. Jeanette and her family have tle boy and we get beautiful smiles Jeanette said: “It is a sad occa- The new opening hours are from been fundraising for the charity from him.” Since he was born sion, but we have decided to go out 9am to 5.30pm Monday, Wednes- and their next event will be a 5k weighing just 1lb 2oz last Decem- with a bang. We had a collecting tin day, Thursday and Friday; 9.30am run at Capstone Park, Medway. ber, the youngster has progressed in the post office for the baby unit to 5.30pm on Tuesday and 9am to Jeanette will run with Henry’s to a healthy 10lb. and the staff suggested dressing up 12.30pm on Saturday. Baroque night Hunt for suspect after burglary THE Pepusch Consort is to perform an evening of baroque chamber POLICE have issued a picture of volved in what police described house in Marley Road in a silver music in aid of the Baptist church a man they want as an aggravated burglary. vehicle. Two mobile phones are in . to question The computer-generated pic- reported to have been stolen dur- Tickets for the concert at the about a raid by a ture builds on the details already ing the incident at about 5pm on church, which starts at 7.30pm on gang of four at a held by police of a slim man, Thursday, July 14. Saturday, September 24, are £8. home in Harriet- about 5ft 11in tall, who spoke Anyone with information is To reserve yours call Pat King on sham. with a local accent. asked to call Kent Police on 01622 01622 851843 or Stephen Morris The man, who The residents were threatened 604100 quoting YY/015480/16 or on 850948 or send an email to was wearing a by the suspects. No one was hurt. Kent Crimestoppers, anony- [email protected]. hoodie, was in- The gang drove off from the mously, on 0800 555111.

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24 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Ukip officer is guilty of scam A FORMER Ukip official to one head in her hands when Judge of Kent’s most controversial MEPs William Kennedy told her that she has been spared jail after admit- would not be sent to prison during ting her involvement in an ex- a 20-minute hearing earlier this penses scam. month. Christine Hewitt (55), of The court was told how the Mar- Townsend Square, King’s Hill, paid gate restaurant was furious at the Minibus will benefit elderly £950 for a meal in The Hoy pub in rip-off and tipped off reporters at Thanet in March the Sun newspaper, who filmed MAIDSTONE group Involve Kent has taken delivery of a new minibus to 2015. Hewitt and sent the tape to police. help the elderly in the town, courtesy of the Department of Transport. But Hewitt, who The chief of staff was then ar- But the vehicle, which will be used to take older people shopping, for was the chief of rested and charged with fraud. days out and other transport needs, presented just one problem – where staff to south east Mrs Atkinson, who sits as an to park it in Maidstone? MEP Janice Atkin- MEP but has developed political Fortunately, construction firm Gallagher stepped up and made space son - infamous for links with the far right French Na- for the 17-seat Peugeot Boxer, which is wheelchair accessible. It will describing a tional Front party led by Marine Le operate out of Involve’s new hub in The Mall shopping centre. British Thai Pen, was sacked by Ukip bosses. Involve’s Older People’s service is now looking for extra drivers and woman as a “ting Janice Atkinson She denied involvement in the volunteers to help in their office – call 01622 677337. To find out how tong” - asked the scam and faced no charges. Hewitt the service can help you, visit involvekent.org.uk, email restaurant to give her a £3,150 bill. was given a suspened jail sentence [email protected], or call 01622 235833. The scam was uncovered in an of four months, 40 hours on com- expose in a national newspaper. munity service and ordered to pay Hewitt appeared in front of a £500 in costs. Her defence claimed Crash woman is cut from car judge at Canterbury Crown Court, Mrs Atkinson had “hung her out to where it was heard that the inflated dry”. Mrs Atkinson, who was ap- A WOMAN was cut from her car after a crash close to a Maidstone rail- bill would have been passed to an proached for a comment but did way station. organisation to reimburse the not respond, was tipped to cause The incident on Station Approach at Maidstone West just before 4pm money, which would have ulti- an upset in the Folkestone and on September 6 also involved a van and a third vehicle. mately been paid for by the British Hythe parliamentary constituency Firefighters had to free the woman, said to be aged in her 40s. She is taxpayer. but was dropped when the fraud thought to have neck injuries which were not life-threatening. Police The tearful defendant put her probe started. closed the road and diverted traffic into the Broadway.

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Maidstone Town October 2016 25 LEARNING FOR LIFE WITH changes to the age at which youngsters more about the options and a Class notes – in brief! host of suggestions that will help can leave education, “staying on” into the you to shape your future in Up until the age of 18: education. You can even apply If you are not in school, college or sixth form is an increasingly popular choice to more than one sixth form or in an apprenticeship, you will need among the 18,000 or so youngsters in Kent college on this site if you fancy to do a minimum of 280 hours of changing schools or finding training per year who earned their GCSEs this August. another that offers just what you You can get a job - but you will want, be that academic courses need to carry on learning or The government’s decision to take on voluntary work; or more vocational complete accredited training raise the education participation employment or self-employment opportunities. alongside it (be aware, not all age to 18 may not have gone for more than 20 hours a week Look out for school open days, employers are familiar with the down well with all of you, but it alongside part-time education or which will give you a chance to government's new rules) does offer more time to figure out training. check out first-hand what’s on Apprenticeships offer the chance exactly what it is you want from Roger Gough, KCC Cabinet offer at schools in your area and to earn and learn at the same time the world of work and an member for Education, said: “It’s at Kent’s seven FE Colleges, and can pay about £100 a week. opportunity to get more great news that thousands of many offering academic and There are more than 280 different qualifications. Indeed, evidence young people have already vocational courses at all levels, types of apprenticeships available shows that people with more accepted offers to go to college, with particular specialisms. It’s and more than 500,000 students qualifications, such as two or stay on at a school sixth-form, worth doing your homework have opted for this career path more good A levels are likely to take up an apprenticeship or start now to ensure all that effort since 2010. earn around 14% more than those some other kind of employment takes you towards your intended You could start your own business without. with training. For those who career goal. - and train at the same time As well as providing more haven’t got that far yet, it’s opportunity to cram your CV important that young people take with the kind of qualifications to their GCSE results and think Useful contacts hook the right career opportunity about what they can do with what Check out your options and apply for sixth form and FE places at when you do leave or go on to they have got.” Kentchoices4u.com university, the new rules contain It’s also worth speaking with Make an appointment with your career’s advisor or contact the other less academic choices for your careers teacher, friends and National Careers Service Hotline on 0800 100 900 those reaching the age of 16. You family, but remember, this is Take advantage of the dozens of other websites offering you a chance can: about you and what you want to to get a clearer idea of your career path, such as: Carry on in education at school do and it’s a decision that will www.notgoingtouni.com; www.apprenticeships.gov.uk; or a further education (FE) determine just how much you get www.kent.gov.uk; www.volunteercentreskent.org.uk or for free college; from your job – not only money, information on starting your own business or becoming self-employed Earn and learn by taking up an but satisfaction. www.kentfoundation.org and other inspirational organisations apprenticeship or traineeship; Kentchoices4u.com website has www.young-enterprise.org.uk; www.princes-trust.org.uk

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26 Maidstone Town October 2016 WE ARE openopen We Encourage NLL We Achieve daysdays 1111+ 2016 anan exceptionalexexcxceptional learninglearninng experienceexexpxperiience We Inspire We Nuture Open day SaturdaySaturday 115th5th OOctoberctober 9am9am - 12:30pm12:30pm Headteacher’s Talk at 10:30am & 11:30am OOpenpen EveningEvening OpenOpen morningsmornings 9am9am - 11am11am -no appointment required Tuesday 18th October TTuesday,uesdayy,, 20th20t SeptemberSeptember Wednesday 19th October Thursday 20th October Sixth form evening 4.30pm - 8pm TuesdayTuesday 8th8th NovemberNovember 6pm6pm - 9pm9pm YYouou areare warmlywarmly invitedinvited toto take a closer look atat the brbroadoad “Outstanding“Outstanding personalpersonal development”development” curcurriculumriculum and inspiringinspiring facilities wewe havehave totooff offerffeer aatt NewNew Line Line OFSTEDOFSTTED LLearningearning Academy,Academyy,, in BoughtonBoughton Lane,Lane, Loose.Loose. OurOur upcomingupcoming open eveventsents include our open mormornings,nings, which will be held NewNew BBuildinguilildldidining NoNoww OpOpenen betbetweenween 9am and 12pm on:

Oakwood Park SSeptembereptember 21st21st,, 22nd and 23r23rdd Grammar School Oakwood Park OcOctobertober 17th, 18th and 19th Maidstone Kent OcOctobertober 15th - OOpenpen SaturdaySaturday ME16 8AH PPleaselease ccontactontact the main officofficee to tobook book a placa placee on onan anopen open mor morningning t ourtour.. 01622 726683 RIʏFH#RSJVRUJRIIʏʏFH#RSJVRUJ scan for directions ZZZRSJVRUJZZZZZRSJVRUJ wwww.futureschoolstrust.com/www..futureschoolstrust.com/NLLNLLAcademyAcademy New Line LLearningearning Academy,Academy, BoughtonBoughton Lane,Lane, Loose,Loose, Maidstone,Maidstone, ME15 9QL T: 01622 743286 E: [email protected]@futureschoolstrust.com

St Simon Stock Catholic School “Outstanding” ((JJanuary 2015 Section 48 Offssted Inspection) You are warmly invited to our

Open Evening: Tuesday 4th October 18:00-20:00 Principal’s address at 18:00 and 19:30

Open Mornings: Wednesday 5th & Thursday 20th October Commencing at 09:00

Sixth Form Open Evening: Thursday 3rd November 18:00-20:00 Principal’s address at 18:00

A Christian learning community with high academic standards and excellent pastoral care. Oakwood Park, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 00JJP www.ssscs.co.uk 01622 754551

Maidstone Town October 2016 27 LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE • LEARNING FOR LIFE THE Prime Minister’s recent announcement of an expansion in grammar school provision has caused ripple across the country. County councillor Jenny Whittle argues why Kent has got it right… AS CHAIRMAN of Kent County Maths for children in feeder Council’s select committee on primary schools, and to ensure grammar schools and social that assistance was provided for mobility, I was delighted to hear uniform, schools trips and they serve. The proportion of from poorer families attending the Prime Minister’s vision for transport for these children. good and outstanding schools in grammar schools across the new grammar schools that would The Chief Inspector of Schools, Kent is higher than the national county. Admittedly from a small seek to benefit, in particular Sir Michael Wilshaw, was quick to average. children from less well-off criticise the PM’s policy on base, but an improvement and That is not to say that significant families across the country. The grammar schools, declaring their one that we need to build on. The barriers remain for children from select committee’s recently- reintroduction to be a “severely solution, in my view, is not to poorer families to access grammar published report outlined 16 retrograde step” and comparing abolish our most successful schools, but these start well in recommendations, calling for a the performance of Kent’s academic schools, but to enable advance of 11. Educational targeted approach to ensure that children on free school meals every child of high academic disadvantage can be entrenched bright children from less affluent unfavourably with their London ability, whatever their for these children from as early as families were encouraged and counterparts. Sir Michael, who background, to access a place in 22 months, and parties across the supported by KCC and primary himself benefited from a grammar one. political spectrum have focussed head teachers, following the school education, did not say that I also believe that our education efforts on reducing the gap. example of Emma Hickling, the the top 10 funded areas for system needs to prioritise the roll- outstanding head teacher of education are all in London – and Measures include introduction of the Pupil Premium in 2010, which out of vocational education and Kingswood, Leeds and Kent’s schools receive 50% less apprenticeships that enables Primary Schools, to take the Kent funding than those schools. gives primary schools over £1300 per pupil per year for each child young people to enrol on courses Test and through the appeals Attacking grammar schools, from the age of 14. The process if they missed the pass parental choice and the pursuit of who is currently registered for government must enable schools mark. We also called on all academic excellence is totally free school meals or has been at to provide options that meet the grammar schools in Kent to misguided. If Sir Michael came to some point within the previous prioritise children eligible for Maidstone, he would see the six years. The pupil premium is preferences and talents of our “pupil premium” (most now excellent work of the Valley starting to have an impact, with young people whilst meeting the already do) in their admissions Invicta Academies’ Trust, and the an increased number of children needs of the UK economy. arrangements, to widen outreach outstanding education that both Jenny Whittle - County Councillor, Maidstone Rural East programmes in English and schools provide for the pupils Chair, Select Committee, Grammar Schools and Social Mobility, KCC

Archbishop Courtenay Primary School, Eccleston Road, Maidstone, Kent ME15 6QN Telephone: 01622 754666 OPEN AFTERNOON THURSDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2016

1.45 pm until 3.00 pm For parents of children for September 2017 intake Archbishop Courtenay Primary School provides a safe, secure and stimulating learning environment for all children. The ‘State of the Art’ building and extensive school grounds allows for exciting and real life learning experiences to take place to enable all pupils to reach their potential. In June 2015 the SIAMS Inspection Report concluded that Archbishop Courtenay Primary School was a “good” school and Ofsted in March 2014 reported that “Senior Leaders have improved teaching and accelerated pupils’ progress at an impressive rate”

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11+  2SHQ     (YHQWV   2016            ParentsParents and their daughtersdaughterg s areare warmlywarmlly invitedinvitedd11 to our 11+ OOpen Events. Open Evening 2016 5 pm – 8 pm, Thu 13th Oct. Open EEvEveningening Open Mornings 2016 77KXUVGD\2FWREHUSP±SPKXUUVVGD\ 2FWREHU  SP ± SP 9 am, Mon 17th – Wed 19th Oct 7DONVE\RXU+HDGWHDFKHU0UV-XOLH'HUULFNZLOOWDNHSODFHGX77DDONVE\ RXU +HDGWHDFKHU 0UV -XOLH 'HUULFN ZLOO WDNH SODFH GXULQJWKHHYHQLQJULQJ WKH HYHQLQJ by prior appointment only Open MorningsMornings Buckland Road ::HGQHVGD\7KXUVGD\DQG)ULGD\2FWREHUHGQHVGD\ 7KXUVGD\  DQG )ULGD\  2FWREHU  Maidstone DPDPDP DP

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Maidstone Town October 2016 29 News | A-level results downsmail.co.uk

The wait for results is over for these students from Maplesden Noakes (left) and Maidstone Girls’ Grammar School A-level success for Kent pupils STUDENTS from across the area have been celebrating the fruits of their labours after taking delivery of their A-level results.

They compare well with the na- Lucy V earned straight A* grades tional picture, which shows a small and is planning to go to Exeter Uni- decline (0.1%) in those achieving the versity to study economics. Nine highest A*/A grades (25.9%) but a Head Julie students achieved at least two A*s, record 409,000 accepted for univer- Derrick with including Madeleine B and Chloe F sity (up 3%). some of the (three As and an A*). Madeleine will The number of A-levels taken this successful read maths and Chloe computer sci- year rose to more than 850,000, with students from ence. 13,415 more female entrants. Also in- Invicta Girls At Oakwood Park Grammar,a creasing was the number sitting core Grammar third of all students achieved A*/As. Thirteen gained three or four subjects, with maths entries up 20% School since 2010 and English and biology A*/As. Thomas Ward (two A*s and equally popular. While there was a Walsh (two As, a B, two Cs); Megan English, and C in government and an A) will study maths at St Peter’s sharp rise in students studying com- Bicknell (BTEC sport double distinc- politics, while Ben is heading to Ox- College, Oxford, and head boy puting, fewer sat music, German, tion; two Cs and a B) and Sharonjit ford Brooks University to study law. Christopher Johnson (A* and two As) will go to St Edmund’s Hall, Ox- design and technology and French. Hayre (two As, a B and a C). All are Sian Killington got A*s in sociol- ford, to study politics, philosophy Every student passed at Invicta going to university. ogy and her extended project, as and economics. Robert Crawford Grammar School for Girls, earning One in five sixth-formers achieved well as Bs in media and psychology. (A* and two As) will read history at some 150 A*/A grades – 10.5% at the straight A*/A grades at Sutton Va- BTEC successes went to: Abdul Trinity College, Cambridge. highest level. lence School. Khattak and Alfy Knox, both receiv- Studying maths at St Andrew’s Head Julie Derrick noted the ris- Over the last few years, the school ing two distinction* grades and a B. will be Gwilym Old (A* and three ing number (25.4%) achieving an A*- has shown consistent improvement, Tamana Hasani also received two As); Mitchel Shephard, Joseph B grade, providing more with access distinction*s; Holly Priestley, a dis- with 42% of entries this year taking Hilder and Daniel Harris (two A*s to university. Lara Hebdon, Felicity tinction* in performing arts, business the top marks (A*-A), and 13% A*. and an A) will study at Bath, bio- March and Anastasia Nicholl-Pier- and travel, and Bradley Claytor a Across the cohort, 67% received medical sciences at York and com- son are off to Cambridge, Plymouth place at the University for the Cre- A*-B grades, producing a pass rate puter science at Southampton; and and Leeds to study medicine, den- ative Arts after getting three A*s-C. of 99%, with high achievers includ- Jack Slater (A* and two As) at Exeter. tistry and veterinary science. Will Pemberton, who oversees the ing: Emil Evans (three A*s and a Thomas Collins (three As) is hoping Head girl Georgia Wells gained sixth form, said: “Our students, staff place at Cambridge to read history) to study chemical engineering. five A*/A grades and will study and parents have worked incredibly and Saskia Roestenburg (three A*, Success in the arts and humanities hard, and these results illustrate physiotherapy at Birmingham. reading theatre in Bristol) and Fred- subjects also figured strongly. Head their dedication and commitment.” Other notable achievers were: die Parker (three A*s, reading psy- girl Alice Churchill (three As) will At Simon Stock Catholic School, Catherine Lincoln, Harriet Turner chology at Bath). study theology at Exeter. James 95% of Year 13 students achieved at and Georgia Wells (five A*s and an Head Bruce Grindlay praised the Samuel, Stanley Draper and Charlie least two A levels and more than half A); Lara Hebdon (four A*s); Grace school’s ability to improve the out- Catmull (three As) will take up were A*-B. Carol and Sophie Aujard (four A*s comes of all students, placing it in places at Russell Group universities Notable successes were: Eva Mal- and an A) and Amber-Louise Tree the top 10% of schools nationally this to study history, geography and dig- pass (three A*s); Jack Barnes, and Tom Wei (three A*s and an A). year for “adding academic value”. ital production. Thomas Bourne, Martin Burstow, Invicta’s extended project qualifi- Future Schools’ Trust, which has Valley Park Abigail Clarke, Andrew Coatsworth, A record 57% of cation saw 36 pupils earn A*/As. sites at Cornwallis and New Line School George Craven, Holly Davey, Amy students earned A/A* Mrs Derrick said: “Our students Learning Academies, had 131 sixth- grades, with 87% an A*-C pass. have yet again risen to the challenge formers taking A-levels, and 62% Dowd, Louise Goswell, Anna Harri- son, Helena Sampayo, Ethan Notable performances came from: of combining their own academic achieved an A*-C grade. Daniel Greenhead (three As), Lucy achievement and raising nearly Cornwallis notched up 32.4% A*- Wheeler and Clare Woodward (AAB or better). Kitney (two A*s and a B), Mathew £48,000 for charity.” B grades, while at New Line Learn- Porter (an A*, two As and a B), Craig Principal Brendan Wall said: At Maplesden Noakes, students ing 76.9% of students achieved Barden (three A*s and two As), Al- “These results are exceptional for a achieved a 100% pass rate in both A- distinction* to merit in BTEC qualifi- isha Bell (three A*s and an A), Is- comprehensive school.” level and BTEC exams, with 45% in cations. abelle O’Nion (two A*s and a B), Maidstone Grammar School for the top A*-B grades and 70% A*-C. Students leading the celebrations Amy Reed (two A*s and a C), Lau- Girls witnessed an increase in stu- Head Jane Prideaux said the re- included deputy head girl Zoe Het- ren Apperley, Shanon Rupacha and dents achieving the top grades. sults reflected the dedication of staff herington and deputy head boy Ben Jack Cutler (two A*s and an A), Ellie Of the 174 students taking the and students to achieve the best, Hartnell. Zoe achieved a double dis- Harber-Russell and Katie Haylor exam, 30% got A*/A, with 66% A*-B, with particular praise to: Dan tinction* in business, a distinction* in (three A*s) and Natalie Hatfull and an overall pass rate of 90%. Williams (three As, two Bs); Kim travel, an A* in psychology, a B in (three A*s and an A).

30 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk GCSE results | News GCSE students make the grade GCSE students across the district are celebrating after going for gold and matching the national rise in A*-C grades this year. Exam officials confirm that 68.8% of entries scored A*-C (up 0.7%), while those achieving a C or above in English dipped, as did the overall pass rate (98.5%). However, across the country pupils fared better in maths, with 62.4% getting a grade C or above (up 4.8%). The dip in English has been put down to recent reforms, which have included a move to linear, non-mod- ular courses and less coursework and the removal of the "speaking and listening" element of the subject. The gender gap also continued, with 73.1% of girls’ exam entries achieving A*-C compared with Good news for these students from Invicta Grammar School for Girls, and 64.3% for boys. Exam officials also right, Mason Dadson, from Cornwallis School earned eight A to C grades highlighted a fall in the numbers of entries for biology, chemistry and our area.” physics – the first decline for a Out of 232 students at Cornwallis decade. School, 49% achieved the gold stan- This is how youngsters fared in dard of five A*-C passes, including our region: English and maths – an 11% increase At Invicta Grammar, 100% of stu- on last year’s results. dents achieved five A*-C grades and Overall, 61% achieved A*-C 72% of all grades were at A*/A. grades, with high achievers includ- More than three-quarters of all 181 ing Chloe Sinclair, Elaura Lacey and students gained five or more A* or A Megan Brailey (eight A*-A grades) grades and, over half eight A* or A and Mason Dadson, Reece Winter grades. and George Watts, who all received Head Julie Derrick said: “We are at least eight A*-C grades. exceptionally proud of our students Principal Isabelle Linney-Drouet and staff. If learning was an Olympic said: “I am delighted with this out- sport, our students and staff would standing set of results that students, have won gold.” parents and staff can be rightly Notable achievers included proud of.” Muskaan Ali, Mangat Guntash, Bry- At School, one in St Simon Stock art students Gabriela Zorek, Adrianne Soliven and Coleen ony Jenner, Emily Lloyd, Shona three pupils achieved five A grades Waterton with teacher May Farrell, and below, Megan Parrott, Scott Fox, Aaron Mitchelmore, Michalina Michalska, or better, with 69% of passes at A*-B Biggs and Bobby Liston collect their results at New Line Learning Academy Yasmin Pewsey and Sophie Scott, grades. who achieved straight A*s. Top performers included Ellie Lucy Brice, Maddie Campbell, Agu-Benson, who achieved 11 A*s; Evie Horner, Lydia Levett and Suha Olivia Ferris (nine A*s) and Miah achieved 12 A* or A grades Francesca Ash (seven A*s). Twins Olasubomi and Olamid Head Bruce Grindlay said: “Our Tolu-Ogunpolu achieved 21 A/A* teaching staff and students have grades between them, seven of them demonstrated how much one can A*s. improve, given the right environ- At St Simon Stock Catholic ment, focus and support. We are de- School a total of 68% of pupils at- lighted with this year’s results and tained A*-C grades in English and despite the large year group and a maths, with 97% earning A*-Cs in more diverse cohort, the pupils’ English language, and 24 earning hard work has paid dividends.” A*A grades across more than half At Maidstone Grammar School their subjects. Ryan Ellesmere, Carol for Girls, students notched up an- Mealin-Vazquez, Aiden Huynh- other “pleasing set of results”, with 61% of achieving five or more A*/A Those earning special mention in- cured A*-C grades. Nguyen and Ben George averaged cluded: Sammi Ta (10 A*s, two As), Notable successes included Vicky A*A grades across nearly all their grades, and 37% at least eight at these grades. Zak Allam (seven As, two Bs and Harris, who secured As in English subjects. three Cs), Rukiya Choudhury (four language and literature, as well as A third of students achieved an Congratulations go to Lauren O and Grace S who both earned 11 A* A*s, five As, and three Bs), Brooke six Bs; Angel Limbu (an A in PE and average of more than one whole Ellis (two A*s, eight As and two Bs) six Bs), Bobby Liston (an A in art and grade higher than their target in all grades. Head Deborah Stanley said: and Charlie-May Loft (two A*s, six a B in PE), and Craig Lionet (A their subjects, with exceptional re- As, three Bs). grades in Mandarin and maths, as sults for Wiktoria Miszczak, Zachary “These results reflect the huge amount of work by our students, to- Head Jane Prideaux said: “This well as six Bs). Jones and Ellie Hodgetts. year group worked extremely hard Principal David Elliott said: “Well Principal Brendan Wall said: “For gether with the support and encour- agement of the teaching staff.” and we are all very proud of their done to all our students, but in par- the last few years our students have outstanding achievements.” ticular to those who worked excep- made significantly greater progress At Maplesden Noakes, 56% of students achieved five or more A*- Of 115 students who sat GCSEs at tionally hard to achieve excellent than students in schools nationally, New Line Learning Academy,in results, which are testament to their and this includes selective schools in Cs - 82% including English and 65% maths. Loose, 1.6% achieved A* and 43% se- dedication and efforts.”

Maidstone Town October 2016 31 News downsmail.co.uk Churches join to increase Report praises Age UK congregation THE creation of a new Team Min- for ‘first class’ service istry, serving a dozen churches along the Pilgrims Way, looks set to win favour. AGE UK Maidstone was given a glowing report on its staff and care but The re-organisation – merging the parishes of , has been told by a health watchdog that it must improve its admin. , , Thurnham, The charity’s Mill Street branch, and “gold stars”. Detling, Leeds, Broomfield, Grove which provides bathing and foot- About 80 people use the bathing Green, Kingswood, Langley and care services for more than 400 service and 340 are helped by the Otham – has won the backing of all older people, received an unan- foot care service. The report said: the Parochial Church Councils nounced two-day inspection in “Staff were trained and supported (PCC) affected. June from Care Quality Commis- to have the right skills, knowledge The new “super benefice” or sion (CQC) inspectors. and qualifications necessary to give Team Ministry would operate Their report praised the service people the right support. Everyone under a Team Rector – currently for being effective, caring and re- we spoke with said the staff, Rev John Corbyn, at Holy Cross, sponsive, but made recommenda- whether they were using the foot Bearsted – with a Team Vicar, Rev tions following issues on safety and care or bathing service, respected Steve Hughes, in Otham; a new leadership. their privacy and dignity.” Mission post reaching out to fami- Recruitment files did not contain Paul Coles, chief executive of Age lies on new estates and a second required information and there had UK Maidstone, said the charity was Team Vicar at Hollingbourne vic- not been regular criminal record working to update its admin pro- arage. checks. Some staff had worked for cedures. He said: “We have a very The official name of the Team the charity for more than 10 years long-serving and stable staff. Some Ministry, the Hollingbourne va- without being re-assessed. Paul Coles of Age UK, Maidstone have been with us for 20 years. We cancy and the Mission post will be The CQC also said individuals’ with the CQC. are pleased that the CQC did such progressed now the public consul- care needs should be reviewed However, the inspectors praised a detailed inspection of our service tation has closed. more regularly and reviews sought the care provided, reporting that because it enables us to learn from It follows discussions that began on the service. Fire risk assessments people they interviewed said the that and ensure that we are provid- nearly two years ago in light of va- were overdue and the new man- staff were well trained and knew ing the best service to our clients. cancies and how the church should ager had taken up the post earlier what they were doing. One person “If any of our clients are worried, respond to falling and aging con- this year, but had not yet registered described the service as “first class” they can ring and talk to our staff.” gregations – a decision described by Rural Dean Rev Dick Venn as an “inspiration from God”. He said: “It hasn’t been an easy Transport festival a hit with visitors decision. Every PCC has had to look quite carefully and hard about HUNDREDS turned out to enjoy the way forward and this is what the sun and the displays at we want to do. Transport Festival. “It is important for the Church to It is the sixth year the event has look at its mission work and to been staged at The Chequers pub, strike the balance between catering and landlady Tracey Leaver said it for our existing congregations and was the best yet. reaching out to new people, or the “We had a model T Ford, tractors, Church will cease to exist.” racing minis and some really Rev Venn, who retires as vicar of popular exhibits.” the Len Valley Benefice in Septem- Children were able to sail boats ber, has urged the church to start around a make-shift lake, created advertising his post now, to ensure by Capstan Model Boat Club; the congregation isn’t left without Laddingford local Roger Manklow a vicar for any length of time and to brought along his engines and ensure his success in increasing at- organiser Terry Heaslip kept the tendance can be built on. kids amused with his model trains. Exam results pride for new head Plan withdrawn LOOSE Parish Council has with- RICHARD Owen (47) is the new He added: “Maplesden Noakes “As head teacher of Maplesden drawn its proposal for a long- head teacher at Maidstone’s has always been about giving our Noakes School my message is awaited community centre. Maplesden Noakes School. students the confidence to be the simple – I know that every indi- The council sought approval for He was thrust into the driver’s best. Our exam re- vidual can aspire to be the best if the £1m scheme from Maidstone seat just days after taking up the sults are the best they are motivated by self-belief. post, as students received their high school re- “Our support systems at Council but after some residents ob- exam results. sults in the area Maplesden have an outstanding jected, it decided to drop it pending Mr Owen was previously and I want stu- reputation because our expertise further discussions. deputy head at the Great Buck- dents and parents lies in building self-confidence Designs for the two-storey exten- land school for the last 11 years. to know that they and never giving up on our stu- sion to the King George V Pavilion He has been married for 23 years can trust us to dents. We believe in every indi- included a 200-seat hall, sports facil- and his wife is a deputy head give their chil- vidual and we believe in our ities, meeting rooms and a lounge. teacher in a primary school. Richard Owen dren a fantastic community. However, residents in Walnut Tree The holder of a BEd (Hons) and start in life. “Every year, the success of our Lane complained about increased an MEd, Mr Owen said he was ex- “I am proud of our reputation students, whatever their back- noise, disturbance, traffic, parking tremely proud of his students’ A- for outstanding academic stan- ground, shows that at Maplesden problems, the scale of the new build- level and GCSE results. dards and pastoral support. Noakes, everything is possible.” ing and the loss of green space.

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Maidstone Town October 2016 33 downsmail.co.uk Joan Benne that lived near Frienden. Born Eileen Wales in a camper van with my stepmother. Obituaries Martin, in Wiltshire, she moved to this area He even took her to the place in Wales where JOAN Benne (88) lived for 54 years in as a child, seling near Smallhythe. As a Girl he was evacuated as a boy. Coxheath and had previously lived in Guide, she visited Smallhythe Place for tea “In later years they had a caravan at a site Bearsted and . when it was still owned by Victorian actress in Dorset and spent their summers there.” Born Joan Houilibecq on Guernsey she Ellen Terry, meeting and talking with her. Doug leaves his wife, four children – was evacuated to Dorset and Lancashire Eileen was married for almost 50 years to daughter Lesley died in 2011 – 10 grandchil- during the war. Roger Colle and was mother to Alan and dren and three great-grandchildren. Joan met Roy, her Jacqueline. She had worked at the Granada husband of almost 65 Cinema at the boom of Gabriel’s Hill, on years, when she local farms and in the canteen of Oxford David Sladden worked in a café on Road Primary School in Maidstone. DAVID William Charles Sladden (58) lived Guernsey, and the Alan said: “My mother was the kind of couple moved to in Bearsted for around 20 years and lived loveable person who is liked by everyone. locally throughout his life. Bearsted to live with She loved to go dancing with my father. My his parents. Born in Suon Valence and brought up in mother lived independently for many years Hollingbourne, David Joan was mother to after he died and was a loving mother and Paul, Alan, Peter and aended Swadelands grandmother.” School and worked as Neil and worked as an orderly at Linton Eileen – who was widowed about 20 years Hospital for 22 years. a mechanic with his fa- ago – leaves her children, grandchildren ther-in-law. His pas- Roy said: “Joan dedicated her life to her Martin, Carl and Karen and great- family. We travelled all over the world, and sion for cars remained grandchildren Luke, Bethany, Nicole and with him throughout Joan had been to see our eldest son in New Isabel. Zealand nine times as well as trips to places his life. like Hawaii, India, Singapore and the USA. ” Married for 35 years Joan leaves her husband, three of her sons Douglas Grist to Julie, David was fa- (son Peter pre-deceased her), six surviving ther to Katie and grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. DOUGLAS “Doug” Grist (86) lived the final Grace. Katie said: “Our father’s passion for years of his life in Siingbourne but had cars was a massive part of his life and he lived in the Maidstone and Medway areas owned a number of vintage and classic cars; Martyn Sparrowhawk since he was a small boy. he loved taking us to car shows. Born in Bexhill to parents from Rainham in “Our father was outgoing, sociable and the TRIBUTES have been paid to Martyn Kent, he returned lo- kind of person who is loved by everyone.” Sparrowhawk, who raised large sums of cally and remained in David leaves his wife, daughters, grand- money for charity. the area apart from a son Jack and sisters Rosemary and Patricia. Martyn (53) lived in Fant Lane and spell on national serv- worked as a painter ice with the RAF in and decorator. He Norfolk. Marshall Vine aended St Simon Doug’s local homes THE death of Maidstone’s Marshall Vine (73) Stock School and included , trained as a master made local headlines because of his personal Langley, Suon Va- quest to save and restore the paddle steamer butcher. lence, and Bearsted. Martyn was father The Medway Queen. He was known from Marshall was born and brought up in to 15-year-old Joseph, his years running the family business E H and was engaged to Maidstone. Born with Grist and Sons, a wholesale fruit and veg- cerebral palsy, he Moya Sparrowhawk etable business based in Hedley Street near Martyn was a completed teacher Maidstone Prison. Doug and his brother took training and taught former England international martial arts the business over from their father. When it fighter who had competed in judo and woodwork, metal- closed Doug worked for Trebor Sharps in work and history at St karate in the 1980s. Maidstone. Martyn also worked as a doorman and set John Fisher’s School in Doug was married twice. He and first wife Chatham. up the Jester’s Scooter Club. He helped to June had children Lesley, Judith and Martin raise thousands of pounds for charity. Marshall was also and with second wife Dee he had children known for his involve- A regular in the Cherry Tree pub in Tracy and Stuart. Judith said: “My father Barming, Martyn was also a keen gardener. ment in Scouting and loved the outdoors and could take pleasure his passion for steam railways. He leaves his fiancée, son, his parents, two in a lot of life’s simple things. sisters and three brothers. It was his discovery of the roing hulk of “When he retired he bought land near Ul- the Medway Queen and the campaign to re- combe and grew plum trees and Christmas store the vessel that brought him the most Eileen Colle trees, as well as keeping sheep and chickens. local aention and he served as chairman to “He sold his produce at market in Ashford the society working to bring the Medway EILEEN Mary Colle (96) lived on Surrey and kept this business going for 15 years. He Queen back to full working order. Road, Shepway, for over 65 years and before also toured the south east of England and A collection at Marshall’s funeral will go to the Medway Queen Society. Marshall leaves his sister Diana and her family. 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Maidstone Town October 2016 35 downsmail.co.uk Comment Bite the bullet on local plan AFTER years of prolonged agony and major trauma and orthopaedic work to Tun- painful controversy a Government inspector bridge Wells. is now able to work at last on putting Maid- MailMarks We do not know yet what is in the minds of stone’s highly significant local plan to bed. the NHS budget-holders, but it seems the Let’s hope he is successful. Because the DENNIS FOWLE President stroke unit in Maidstone Hospital is a target. most dangerous reason for rejection is that [email protected] Speed is now at the centre of stroke treatments Maidstone has set a target for residential de- and this must be a major factor. It could be velopment too low. Neighbouring Swale has that an extra 30 minutes of journey time learned how devastating that can be, as it goes Just about every MP agrees the country’s makes sense if the specialist equipment and back to the drawing board to find more hous- housing stock must grow massively. expertise is immediately available to all pa- ing sites. Locally we may not all agree with the out- tients. That is a debate ahead of us. Maidstone needs this plan agreed urgently. come of this inquiry and dislike decisions After many years working closely as a jour- It helps put Maidstone Council in control of about to be made, but this inspector will be nalist with local health authorities, I have future development and is a defence against very conscious of Government demands – and come to the sad conclusion that the Govern- construction businesses wishing to build in we must expect most of his decisions will ment must now make some very brave (and areas not acceptable to us. meet them. unpopular) political decisions. The inquiry will be long and lively. There We all value our NHS. We expect it to meet are many pressure groups unhappy with Pay up for NHS our growing demands and support us in to a Maidstone Council’s consultations and deci- THE top health authorities across Kent grand and healthy old age. But these expecta- sions mainly on housing, business growth and currently look very hard at the NHS and tions come at an increasingly great cost at a local transport. say they want to make it beer and more time when the national budget is under im- The council has spent many very difficult cost effective. We all wish them well – but mense pressures. years on this final draft and has had to balance I fear now they face an impossible task. There are those who will say we must pour local objections against its requirement to There will be steps they can take. We are our national funds in to the NHS at almost meet evidence-based needs. likely to see much more work performed out- any cost. But there are so many demands on There are now many objectors hoping and side expensive hospital environments and the national exchequer this just cannot go on. expecting they will be able to present a case closer to our homes by NHS staff and social One way or another, a Government will for major changes in the draft. The inspector services. The danger is these professionals have to raise from us financial contributions will give them fair opportunity – but I am not (such as our GPs) are often working under if our demands are to be met. The NHS is expecting many to be successful when the great pressure. NOT totally free now. We pay for dentistry, final decision is announced. We are also likely to see more hospital de- opticians, prescriptions. We are going to have This is, after all, a Government inspector en- partments centralised – the old reconfigura- to pay more or the NHS will continue to face gaged by a Government very intent on in- tions which caused so much anger in massive problems which impact seriously on creasing massively the nation’s housing Maidstone when we lost women’s and chil- patients. We all have to understand this un- supply. It is not even a party political issue. dren’s services (including maternity) and palatable truth.

Benefits of event unclear Unfortunately, these residents have been left to fund the upkeep of the park, but I do see with the answer that the event raises money, a real need to consider more closely and FOLLOWING the recent Ramblin’ Man Fair and really there is nothing that can be done sympathetically the outcomes for our event in Mote Park, I have listened to those about it. If a lower more acceptable limit residents. complaining about the noise, to those was set in the contract, much of this Cllr Mike Revell, Maidstone Borough reporting a financial gain to the community problem would be solved Council, Bearsted ward and to those who enjoy the music. The contract signed by Maidstone Unfortunately, there are conflicting Borough Council was not made with the Park is the wrong venue responses and clearly there needs to be a Ramblin’ Man but the Spirit of Rock Ltd. balanced look at the outcomes of this event IN RESPONSE to the points raised by Chris The company is registered with Companies and, if needed, to look for changes. Ingham, the positive feedback he received House with two directors, but further I went to the event on the Saturday and about Ramblin’ Man undoubtedly came clearly there was a large audience enjoying information is sparse. from the aendees, not the surrounding the music and this aspect was well In 2015, something did go wrong. The residents. organised. Then I walked across the park to organising company, then called UK Rock An event like this can do very lile to Mote House where, at my request, the Festival Ltd, did go under. How was the showcase Maidstone and Kent. Aendees Council had installed a noise detection Ramblin Man affected? Did they lose stay or camp on site, then go home, with recording instrument. money? Did the council make the money it lile benefit to the local economy. This instrument recorded five occasions, anticipated? I would invite him to look at the park and on that day when the sound levels went I have been told that this year, local the damage that heavy vehicles have done above the agreed limit. However, it quickly businesses made £1.5million, but with no to the grass. became very clear to me that the problem backing evidence. I am very happy for local The main point which Mr Ingham does was not just the music, but the setup. The private businesses to profit, but what about not appear to understand are the words sound of four groups playing at the same our taxpayers, who invested in this event? It “too loud”. time arrived at Mote House as a is essential that clear and full details of the Mote Park is absolutely wrong as a venue cacophonous, grating, jarring, and financial outcome of this investment should for this event. It is in the middle of housing, disturbing noise. The music was lost, with be made readily available for public so a great many Maidstone residents will be just the relentless sound of the bass notes inspection. subject to unwelcome noise. Too many underpinning the noise. Mote Park is not in a rural spot. It is in the aendees use adjacent streets as long-term It was very unpleasant and I can centre of Maidstone, surround by homes car parks, causing traffic problems. understand why residents have complained. and residents. Clearly there is a great need I also take issue with Mr Ingham’s claim Contact our team ... Got something to say? Simon Finlay Diane Nicholls Dawn Kingsford Write to The Editor, 2 Forge House, Editor Assistant editor Journalist Bearsted Green Business Park, Maidstone ME14 4DT or email simon.fi[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] simon.fi[email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233

36 Maidstone Town October 2016 downsmail.co.uk

that it is a highlight in the Maidstone repairs appear to have been put on top of with the A26, must go down as the biggest Comment calendar. I dare say that there are some them and many are already growing disaster by a planning department in the people who like this sort of ear-shaering through the repairs. whole of Tonbridge and Malling. experience, but I would think that for most Only some of the holes were filled with No respect to its situation and effect on people it is something to be avoided. the tarry stones. What about the rest of the traffic volume could ever have been I doubt very much that, unless forced so holes, some of which are more of a problem undertaken, it’s a total nightmare for to do, Mr Ingham will make any changes to than the ones which were supposedly people using it. the level of noise. It has never been reduced mended? The new retail development has traffic in the past. How many remember the This whole exercise has been rather a lights access a lile way from other lights problems with the Radio 1 Roadshow, waste of rate-payers’ money. The and the resulting queues are unbelievable. where those monitoring noise levels proved organisation and supervision which went Don’t planners consider the effects their impotent to enforce the limits? The limits into the project seems to be next to non- decisions will have? are far too generous. If noise could be heard existent. This retail outlet should never have been as far away as Hucking, it must have been Perhaps the ratepayers would benefit by placed in this location with access onto intolerable outside the park. having fewer chief officers, with the town Hermitage Lane. The county showground has excellent re-employing a direct team of men that Mr Thornewell’s leer mentions possible parking and toilet facilities, is easily could go round and mend any holes that further development in Hermitage Lane. accessible and well away from large they saw, instead of having to get quotes to This cannot take more traffic. The field residential areas. It is the obvious place for do half the job because quotes cost money opposite the retail site is part of the Green occasions like this, if Mr Ingham is unable to to produce and contractors companies need Belt between Tonbridge and Malling and refrain from bringing his noisy event to the to make profits all of which is added to the Maidstone boroughs, which must be kept. area. bill. There are developments approved on David Hacke, Park Way There may also be enough money left both sides of the A20 beyond the railway over to employ a few more road sweepers bridge. Time to move festival who can manage to sweep paths besides We need professional planners who live I HAVE just found out through the Downs the machines that sweep the road guers. in the area. What does MP Tracy Crouch Mail that the Ramblin’ Man rock festival on Margaret Basham, Maidstone think of Hermitage Lane? the weekend July 23/24 was over the sound I am totally disillusioned with what is limit on five occasions on the Saturday. happening to this area. As a resident of Grove Green, Weavering, Calais wall not a solution Mr P D Royall, by email this can be really frustrating to listen to all THE decision to build a wall in Calais is the weekend. Even with the windows closed, I latest in a long line of wrong moves made could still hear the music. in the ongoing scandal of the British and Creative help for kids I enjoy going to concerts and I love live French authorities’ handling of the plight of IT IS estimated that seven million offences music, but Mote Park is surrounded by refugees in Northern France. are aributed to teenagers every year. houses and there is no sound-proofing, so The chaotic situation in Calais is a Most of this “youth crime” is the result of the music can be heard from afar. symptom of a problem; neither dismantling antisocial behaviour, street crime and I think it would be a good idea to move the camps and removing the last scraps of violence. Kids aren’t born bad, they this festival to the Detling Showground as dignity and security from their residents develop that way through life experience. this an ideal venue for parking, camping nor building a wall will solve that problem. We give them no guidance, no resources, no etc. Only through cross-border political co- care and no inspiration. With nowhere to I know the Social has been held at the operation can we hope to alleviate this go and nothing to do, it’s no wonder these showground for the last couple of years - global humanitarian crisis. kids seek refuge in gangs. yet I haven’t heard anyone moan or We need to realise that those seeking Our Crimesharetv (CSTV) proposal will complain about the noise locally about that refuge in the UK are not desperate to come convert the criminal energy of youth into festival. here; they are simply desperate. Successive community creativity. Triple A Multimedia Natasha Bastone, Weavering governments have uerly failed to fulfil Group’s charity arm, CSTV TRUST, is the their responsibilities towards the student-driven, community crime vulnerable people who find themselves in prevention project Crimesharetv, piloting Road repairs such a waste the camps – especially unaccompanied an initiative designed to take kids off the REFERENCE the roads at Valentine Road children. Many of those in Calais have a streets and back into the community. and Hubble Drive in Maidstone. The legal right to live in the UK. The slow speed With sponsorship from major brand sweeper lorry recently came to Valentine at which their asylum claims are being names and volunteers from the media Road and Hubble Drive today and went up dealt is inexcusable. industry and local communities, we plan to and down quite a few times to make sure History will not judge our nations kindly set up Triple A Crimeshare TV Studios that everybody knew he had been here. if French and British governments refuse to throughout Kent Since the holes in the road had been filled work together constructively on this issue. It is Crimesharetv’s intention to invite with the wrong method for a lightly-used Aacking the symptoms will never solve retired police officers and ex-military domestic road to start with, all he achieved the problem. personnel to participate as role models in was to sweep up many of the small stones As a symbol, the Trumpian wall is an operating the studios in their home town. that were actually left in the road. emblem of the ongoing campaign by far- The basic purpose of the studios is to As the holes had been filled with small right groups to dehumanise refugees. As a involve the kids with the crime prevention tarry stones instead of tarmac and then not security solution, it’s a hugely-expensive project. However, in tandem with the CSTV rolled in, many of the stones had travelled sticking plaster that will force more project, Triple A will deliver vocational on to the footpath, so the sweeper lorry refugees into the hands of criminal people training and assistance to each and every missed them. These small tar-covered smugglers and see desperate people take studio. stones walk indoors, however much one even greater risks. We seek strong links with local wipes their feet, and mark the carpets. To borrow a phrase from Ronald Reagan, communities so that neighbourhood kids No notice had been given about not I say: Mrs May, tear down this wall! Or, can adopt the concept as their own. parking in the road today, so there were beer yet; don't construct the monstrosity Terry Armstrong CEO, Triple A Multimedia many cars parked in Valentine Road, in the first place. Group, www.triple-a.uk.com mostly from homes in Willington Street Keith Taylor, Green Party MEP for the where it is too dangerous to park safely South East, European Parliament, Brussels because of all the huge lorries that have to Local news a click away use it. These cars were still parked in I HAD not realised all four latest editions of Valentine Road when the sweeper truck Road planning a disaster Downs Mail are now so easily and quickly arrived. REGARDING the leer in edition 233 by accessible on the Downs Mail website. Nothing appears to have been done about David Thornewell I would like to comment It saves me a fortune in postage to all the weeds growing up in the guers and on Hermitage Lane. relatives in USA, Australia and New edges of the pavement. They are breaking The planning of this essential road, not Zealand. up the edges of the road; some of the only to the hospital but linking the A20 Josie Smith, Bearsted

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Maidstone Town October 2016 43 On the Road

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44 Maidstone Town October 2016 On the Road

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Maidstone Town October 2016 45 News downsmail.co.uk Keeping the county moving THE county council has unveiled its transport strategy – Delivering Growth without Gridlock. It identifies Kent County Coun- cil’s infrastructure priorities for planes, trains, and automobiles for Have your say the next 15 years and offers the pub- MEMBERS of the public have until lic a chance to comment. October 30 to comment by visit- In Maidstone, the strategy high- ing www.kent.gov.uk/localtrans- lights the issues of town centre con- portplan. gestion, poor rail links and restricted If you would like a printed copy, rural bus services. or the information in any other Other areas identified include the format or language, email alter- need to create smaller overnight [email protected] or call HGV parks to relieve illegal and in- 03000 421553 (text relay service appropriate parking by lorries, cut Operation Stack and right, Clr Matthew Balfour number: 18001 03000 421553). deaths and serious injury on our roads by a third, improve rail con- in north western Maidstone.” port other port, pictured, said: “This is one of nections and reduce the cost of train Future schemes list corridor ca- means of provi- our biggest plans and will shape the travel. pacity improvements to the sion that can way we invest in our infrastructure The chaos caused by Operation A229/A274 and the Bearsted Road achieve the up until 2031. The transport plan is Stack still remains a priority and is corridor; a Leeds and Langley by- same aims, vital to boost Kent’s economy and identified in the report. pass and improvements to junction such as com- support a growing population On the congestion issue the strat- 7 on the M20 – but no details of any munity bus services. However, we which is expected to increase by egy document notes: “A scheme to time scale. welcome the potential for KCC to 293,000 people in the next 15 years. relieve congestion at the Bridges Gy- While rail links across the district have bus franchising powers to en- “With potential opportunities for ratory is currently being imple- are comparatively poor, with Maid- hance services and create an inte- devolution from government, now mented, although continued traffic stone currently having no direct grated public transport network.” is the time for us to set out our plans growth on other parts of the net- service to the City of London, it is Overall, it concludes that there re- and make clear what we want as a work is expected to result in wors- proposed to extend Thameslink to mains a “significant funding gap” county. ening delays for road users. Maidstone East by 2018. for its wish list, which it says “high- “This plan will lay out what we “These pressures are most evident On buses, the report notes: “We lights the need to lobby and explore will do to make sure transport is on the congested A229 and A274 have to take a pragmatic approach other sources of funding”. playing its part in making Kent a corridors in south and south eastern to funding commercially unviable KCC’s Matthew Balfour, cabinet great place to live, work and do Maidstone and on the A20 corridor bus services and will seek to sup- member for environment and trans- business. Racist aack Police assault A MAN who launched a violent, Stones boost cancer charity A HOMELESS man who assaulted racist attack in Fremlin Walk has NATIONAL League clubs, including in recognition of the only England police officers has been spared been jailed. Maidstone United, have raised more captain to lift the World Cup. prison. Tommy Meyers (24) was sen- than £15,000 for the Bobby Moore Bowel cancer is the fourth most Dale Cooper (52) was sentenced tenced at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Fund for Cancer Research. common cancer in the UK and the last month at Mid Kent Magistrates Court where he admitted criminal Every club across second most common cause of Court where he admitted being damage, common assault, racially- the three divisions cancer death. Since the fund was drunk and disorderly and two aggravated common assault and took part in set up in 1993 mortality rates have counts of assaulting a police officer. using threatening, abusive or in- collections and a fallen 30% and more than £22 Later that month, Cooper, of no sulting words or behaviour. cheque was million has been raised. fixed address, was drunk and dis- presented to The charity hopes to raise an On August 25, Meyer, of orderly in High Street, Maidstone. Stephanie Moore additional £500,000 this year, the Rochester, damaged four coffee He also assaulted two police offi- mugs worth £20, assaulted a man MBE, Bobby’s 50th anniversary of England’s widow (left). World Cup win. cers in Maidstone. and used threatening, abusive or Magistrates sentenced Cooper to insulting words or behaviour to- Last month, English Heritage Maidstone’s collection during the 21 days in prison, suspended for 12 wards a man and a woman at a unveiled a blue plaque on the Bishop’s Stortford game and raised months. He must also pay a £115 shop in Fremlin Walk, Maidstone. Moore family home in East London £405. victim surcharge. He also assaulted another man, which was racially aggravated, at a restaurant in High Street, Maid- stone. Hospice looking for scary volunteers Magistrates sentenced Meyers to 120 days in prison. He must also A CHILDREN’S charity is on the surprises along the way. sale. Entrants are encouraged to pay a £115 victim surcharge. lookout for daredevil dramatists Monsters, vampires and ghouls wear Halloween costumes and will and dancers to help create a scary will leap out of the shadows to give receive a special glow-in-the-dark atmosphere for a Halloween event. entrants a fright night experience. headband on arrival. All sponsor- Burglar jailed Running Scared is a sponsored Events co-ordinator Gemma Mur- ship will go to Demelza and runners A BURGLAR who stole from a run which takes place at Maid- ray said: “We are looking for groups who raise more than £100 can have house in Maidstone while the occu- stone’s Mote Park on the weekend of amateur actors who are willing to their entry fee refunded. pants slept upstairs has been jailed before Halloween. put on their scariest outfits and The 5k run is recommended for for 32 months. The event, from 8pm to 10pm on make-up, as well as dance groups over 16s, although younger entrants Justin Wynes (40), formerly of Friday, October 28, is a major who can put on a “Thriller” style will be permitted if accompanied by Grove Road, Maidstone, appeared fundraiser for Demelza Hospice routine or something equally spine- an adult. A more family-friendly at Maidstone Crown Court where Care for Children, and will see hun- tingling.” event called the Monster Dash takes he admitted stealing items worth dreds of sponsored participants Applicants should call Gemma on place at the same venue from 5pm £1,800, including passports from running through UV paint, foam, 01795 845183 or email gemma.mur- to 7pm. Child tickets for this are the property in Northumberland bubbles and assorted slimy sub- [email protected]. £7.50 each. Road. stances and getting a few spooky Tickets, priced £20, are already on Details at www.demelza.org.uk.

46 Maidstone Town October 2016 Crime reports 47 News . . . Park King King Clockwise from top left: Kitka Bulgarian folk dance group, street mime artists and Four by Four Bhangra Dancers all featured at Maidstone’s Street Mela in Jubilee Square Pads Hill October 2016 . Wyke Manor . Fremlin Walk Gabriels Hill . . Maidstone Town Maidstone Town ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Drawbridge Close Courtenay Road Surrey Road Watch Cornwall Close CALL 01622 880751 , was damaged by an air pellet. . . . ALARM NOT WORKING? WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS A black Peugeot 206 (MW01 ***) was dam- Tyres were let down on a Ford Focus Bank cards, money, ID, and driving licence An orange bicycle was stolen from a back Fishing equipment was stolen from a shed The driver's side mirror was taken from a A shop window was damaged in A vehicle was damaged in Graffiti was painted around the lift and A locked black bicycle was stolen from op- A Mercedes Sprinter van parked on a aged in garden in at a home in Road toilet area of a shopping centre in Street parked in Street was stolen from a shop in posite a in Wood Hyundai I30 parked in a car park in driveway in Lansdowne Avenue, , was Park ewas Buck- Hastings . Park Wood Lower Stone . . Park Wood, . Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Bonnington Road Fant King Street Snowdon Avenu . without consent. Pudding Lane London Road . Week Street . . . A tree was damaged in the garden of a A number plate (J33***) and a car radio A locked bicycle was stolen from a bike A purse and some bank cards were stolen A home in Wallis Avenue, Tyres were damaged on a vehicle in A roof rack was stolen from a car parked A garage at a home in A van parked in A vehicle was taken from a car park in A black BMW 316 (T336 ***) was damaged A vehicle in Park Wood Walk, A black and grey Sony Ericsson mobile A wallet, passport, bank cards and some Neighbourhood Working to reduce crime. was stolen from a black convertible BMW 118D in Hartnup Street, from a flat in money was stolen from a flatStreet in broken into but nothingbeen taken. appeared to have rack in land Road on a drive in was broken into and cash was taken. was broken into. entered and items includingtools a were sat stolen. nav and home inWood Queen Elizabeth Square, Wheeler Street on the driveway of a property in phone was stolen in Road . Park Gurvinder Sandher, from Cohe- “I hope that next year we will be Park Stra- ,was . form the basis of a reportitage, to culture its and her- leisuretee commit- later this year. sion Plus, who helpedthis to organise year’s event, said:involved “I’ve with been the Mela since itsception in- in 2003 andit have grow watched over the years. able to return to Mote Parkderstand but and un- appreciate there is a process thatthrough.” we need to go Fant Grace Av- Tovil . , but no entry Loose Road but nothing ap- Tovil Tovil . . . and a sat-nav and other . Tovil Tovil Curzon Road . . . Park Wood Park Wood Park Wood Fant , was keyed. , was damaged. Fant mail.co.uk , was broken into, but nothing ap- . A vehicle parked in Wallis Avenue, Tools were taken from a van parked in Wa- The driver’s mirror of a Ford FocusA was shed was broken into at a home in Fant A Peugeot 3008 was broken into in Morris The wing mirror was smashed on a Nissan A grey Boardman bicycle was stolen from A vehicle was damaged in St Heliers Damage was caused to a vehicle in Items were taken from a garden in Wallis A building site in Tovil Green, A Vauxhall Corsa parked in Tovil Green, The door of a car was damaged in a car A Citroen DS3 parked in Oak Trees, A GPS was stolen from a vehicle in Brish- A window was smashed on a VW Polo A vehicle was broken into in Food from around the world, The event, which attracts fund- Performances were provided by There were also performances The borough council is currently The consultation continues Wood small items were stolen. tersmeet Close, damaged in Wharf Road, Lane, Close, Micra parked in Woodford Road, where it was secured indale a Square, car port in Wharf- A vehicle was broken into in Close, Tovil entered and power tools were taken. Avenue, chan Close enue peared to have been taken. ing Lane, parked in park in Melrose Close, was gained. Wood peared to have been taken. downs Street Mela hitsMAIDSTONE’S cultural town diversity was celebrated with centre acts from Nepal, Ireland and India. creative art workshops,with together displays of danceformed and music thisStreet year’s Mela in Fremlin Walk. Maidstone ing from Artswas Council organised England, byand Cohesion Plus Maidstoneopened by Councilmayor, Cllr the Malcom Greer. town’s and deputy theDancers, Four Reel Eire IrishPhase by Dancers, 5 Steel Band,Morris, Four Wolf’s Head KitkaDance Bhangra Group, Ronak Bulgarian Melawood Bolly- Brass Folk Bandstone and the Maid- Group. Nepalese Community by street mime artists, stilt-walkers and human statues, which proved popular with the crowds. looking at the futurethe evolution Mela, of which wasthis scaled year, down and carried out atation consul- on the day, askingback for feed- oncommunity events. the Mela andthrough to mid-October, other and will Open 7 Days A Week 12 noon to 2.30pm & 6pm - Midnight Air conditioned and (inc. Bank Holidays) spacious restaurant. 14 London Road Maidstone ME16 8QL

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Downs Mail is published by Mail Publications Ltd (President — Dennis Fowle, Chairman — Claire Procter, Editor — Simon Finlay, Sales Manager — Bill Brett) 2 Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4DT 01622 630330 www.downsmail.co.uk email: [email protected] Printed by Newbury News.