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MaidstoneMaidstone WWealdeald EEditiondition & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE

December 2016 No. 236

News Village parade could Eliana’s US op hope BRAVE Eliana Farragher (2) has gone to the US for an operation which her family hopes will  be last for RBL flag allow her a normal life. 3 Drunk caused death THIS year’s Remembrance Day in could be the last one at A DRUNK driver’s actions ended which the standards of the Royal British Legion are carried on parade. in the “needless” death of  a Marden man. 4 The men’s and women’s branches in the village are battling to survive. School plan delayed They desperately need new mem- bers and could be forced to close if MARDEN Primary’s plans to they cannot find enough volunteers. double capacity  Alan Port, who is secretary of the have been delayed. 5 men’s section, and its standard bearer, said: “If we have to close, we Ditch flood scheme will not be able to parade the stan- dard on Remembrance Day.” A farmer has a drainage Former Royal Engineer Mr Port plan which could help 6 said: “We have had a branch in prevent flooding. Headcorn for a long time, but the numbers have dwindled. We have a Daily drug-testing chairman and a president, but the treasurer moved away and we FORMER MP Ann Widdecombe haven’t got enough active members has called for daily to fill these posts and enable us to Alan Port (left) bears the RBL standard on Remembrance Day in Headcorn drug-testing in prisons. 13 have meetings. We are in desperate great shame if they had to close and joining his section. need of members, particularly a we will not have a standard bearer He said: “Groups are dwindling Relief road ‘action’ treasurer.” at our future parades.” away all over the place. We have If the branch has to close, the stan- The branch is among several in the tried to find some younger mem- A COUNCIL transport boss wants action on a relief road dard cannot be paraded, but will be area who are fighting to survive. At bers, but people just think it’s for old 25 “laid down” in Headcorn Parish , the battle has been lost men. The RBL is there to help all mil- for south Maidstone. Church. The parish council is sup- and the branch has closed. However, itary personnel, whether serving or Comment 33-34 porting his plea with an appeal on its that has meant some good news for discharged, and their families.” website. Parish clerk Caroline Headcorn, as one former member Contact Alan on 01622 890514. Carmichael said: “It would be a has contacted Mr Port with a view to Barracks closure, page 30 Obituaries 36 Passengers replace stolen Poppy Appeal cash Parish Councils 46-47 RAILWAY passengers rallied Passengers donated a total of A spokesman for Southeastern, THE parish council in is round after a Poppy Appeal col- £500 which Leon has handed to which manages the station, said: to replace a bin in the Heath lecting tin was stolen from Head- the Poppy Appeal co-ordinator. “This money was being raised for Road bus shelter; erosion of corn railway station. Parish clerk Caroline a very good cause and we would Busbridge Road, Loose, is a cause Leon Greenwood, who runs the Carmichael told Downs Mail: “We urge anyone with any information of concern; a new pool table has refreshment kiosk at the station were devastated when the box was to contact the British Transport been bought for the youth club in started a collection after the box stolen. This is such a lovely thing Police.” ; speeding on was stolen from the booking hall for Leon to have done.” Anyone with information can Road, , caused on Tuesday, November 8 – three The theft of the tin was reported call 101 or Crimestoppers anony- damage to property. days before Armistice Day. to British Transport Police. mously on 0800 555 111. Crime Reports 47 Best for babies A PADLOCK on a building in Amber MAIDSTONE is the best place in Lane, , was the country to have a baby, accord- damaged; a ride-on mower was ing to a newly-published review. stolen from a garden in Boughton Maternity services in this part Monchelsea; a window was of Kent were rated number one smashed at a property in out of 200 in an official  Coxheath; a shed was broken into study. 26 at . Home Alarms supplied and fitted from £216 inc VAT visit www.amiga.co.uk or call 08000 199622 FEED THE BIRDS THIS WINTER FOR LESS BULK OR LOOSE BIRD FEEDS REMEMBER YOU CAN’T BUY CHEAPER!

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2 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Moped rider’s Eliana’s hoping US op bike seized A MOPED was seized from a 16- year-old for riding the bike with two passengers. will allow her to run He was stopped while acting in an antisocial manner in a field off A STAPLEHURST youngster Brishing Lane, near Maidstone. who longs to run has jetted off to Police issued him with a warning America for the operation which Chart-toppers and explained that if he was could make her wish come true. stopped again, the vehicle could be A fundraising campaign organ- ELIANA’S fund received a massive seized and impounded by police. ised by family, friends and well- boost from a music video pro- However, the following after- wishers, and a chart-topping music duced by children from St Ronan’s noon the same bike was seen being video, paid the £85,000 needed to School, Hawkhurst, where her sis- ridden with two passengers on send Eliana Farragher to St Louis, ter is a pupil. board in Bell Meadow, Park Wood. Missouri, for the surgery unavail- With the blessing of the band, able on the NHS. they performed Keane’s “Some- Two-year-old Eliana, from Head- where Only We Know”, and issued Festive stalls a DVD priced at £10. It soon corn Road, was born prematurely A TRADITIONAL Christmas mar- at just 32 weeks, and suffered brain reached more than 29,000 views on YouTube and shot to the top of ket is being held in Jubilee Square, damage that caused sight problems the children’s music video chart. Maidstone, daily until December and diplegic cerebral palsy. 22. Her condition included stiffness It will be open from 9am to 6pm in her legs, pain and bone deformi- but she is wobbly on her legs. But seemed like an impossible target. on weekdays, apart from Thurs- ties which stopped her running, it’s not just about walking – it’s Thank you to everyone who’s days when it stays open until 9pm. Treatment to improve her quality about climbing, dancing, jumping given time, money and support.” On Saturdays, it runs until 7pm of life was not available on the and playing. I hope Eliana can run The fund now stands at more and on Sundays until 5pm. NHS, so her family began fundrais- into school on her first day and feel than enough to pay for Eliana’s ing for the spinal cord operation just like all the other children.” treatment, including the year-long called selective dorsal rhizotomy Money came rolling in to the physiotherapy she will need after- Messy church (SDR) which could significantly Eliana’s Wish To Run appeal wards. A MESSY Christingle with fun, improve her ability to move her started, as villagers organised Catherine and her husband, Ray, food and fellowship takes place at legs. events including sponsored runs, will be giving any further cash St Nicholas Church in Linton Hill, Her mum Catherine, a teaching marathons, cake sales, charity raised to help other youngsters wth Linton, on December 3. assistant, said: “Eliana is a real evenings and a music festival. the same condition. More details are available from character, She falls and gets up Catherine said: “We are over the For details of how to give, go to Becky at [email protected] again, in every sense. She can walk moon to have achieved what www.elianaswishtorun.co.uk. or by calling 07949 646865.

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 3 News downsmail.co.uk Road is closed TRAFFIC disruption is likely while a water main is laid in Staplehurst. Drunk crash driver is The work, to lay 75m of pipe along Pagehurst Road from the junction with Marden Road, will last four weeks, closing Pagehurst Road on November 21. The alter- sent to jail for 6 years native route will be via Marden Road, A229 High Street/Cranbrook Road, Pinnock Lane, Five Oak A STAPLEHURST man who caused the “entirely avoidable” death of an- Lane, Five Ash Lane. Another 25m of pipe will be in- other driver in a head-on crash has been jailed for six years. stalled along Oliver Road from the Drunk Kevin Moore (45), of Moore had drunk six pints of beer died from traumatic head injuries junction with Marden Road from Couchman Green Lane, was driv- before getting behind the wheel. the next day. January 3, for about three weeks. ing a Land Rover Discovery errati- The court heard that the collision As well as causing death by dan- A new flowmeter chamber in cally on the took place at approximately gerous driving, Moore was con- Marden Road will complete the A229 Staple- 5.05pm on January 4, 2016. Condi- victed of driving a motor vehicle work. This will start on January 24 hurst Road tions were dark when the crash without a licence and driving with- and be finished by mid-February. when his car took place on the national speed out third party insurance. For details call South East Water on veered into the limit road. He was banned from driving for 0333 000 0002. oncoming lane Following the accident, a person nine years. and smashed who was driving behind Moore Detective Constable Barry Good- Car was stolen into the 63- told officers how she had slowed sell, the investigating officer for year-old vic- down because she could see the this case, said: “Moore was seen by TWO men have been arrested after tim’s car. dark-coloured 4X4 swerving from several different witnesses driving a car reported stolen from Maid- He had been left to right. dangerously in the lead-up to this stone town centre was recovered in Kevin Moore East Farleigh. driving home As this driver drove past the turn fatal collision. Two women were allegedly ap- to Marden when he encountered off for Marden, they saw the vic- “His car was seen veering into proached in their car in Brewer Moore. tim’s car heading towards a ditch, the wrong lane on more than occa- Street at about 9.50pm on Sunday, A detective in the case said the with Moore’s vehicle lying on its sion – at one point another driver September 18. After talking to the innocent man and his family had left side in the middle of the road, had to quickly move out of his way men the women left their car, only been “needlessly robbed of a fu- facing the wrong way. and nearly ended up in a ditch to find it gone on their return. ture” by Moore’s dangerous driv- Another driver, who was travel- themselves. The vehicle was later recovered ing. ling ahead of the victim’s car, told “This poor driving has ulti- in Farleigh Lane. Two men being He pleaded guilty to a charge of officers that shortly before the col- mately led to an innocent man arrested on suspicion of its theft. causing death by dangerous driv- lision they had had to take evasive being killed. The victim and his One of the men is 27 and of no ing and was sentenced at Maid- action to avoid Moore’s car – family have needlessly been fixed address. The other is 31 and stone Crown Court on Friday, nearly ending up in a ditch them- robbed of a future. If that wasn’t from Maidstone. Both have been November 18. selves. Paramedics took the victim tragic enough, his death was en- bailed until November 29. Judge Adele Williams heard to a hospital in London where he tirely avoidable.”

The 2nd Coxheath Guides and below, the 1st Maidstone Senior Section Village’s history put in print Guides win challenges EAST Farleigh is one of Maidstone’s most historical villages, highlights GUIDES from Maidstone are celebrating after winning two chal- of which are featured in a 58-page book published by the parish council. lenge titles in a county competition. The village boasts evidence of human habitation as far back as The 1st Maidstone Senior Section and 2nd Coxheath Guides beat 9000BC-4000BC, and was chosen as the site for an impressive Roman more than 40 teams in a series of tasks, including raft-making, to villa – one of several along the banks of the Medway. take the crown as cham- The parish church has its origins in Saxon times and the medieval pions at Challenge In- bridge, crossed by the Roundheads in 1648 during the civil war, is victa in Tonbridge. mentioned in 1324. Coxheath Guide Tilly By 1881, the village population was 1,668, compared with about Fuller (12) said: “I could- 1,500 today. Many were involved in farming, especially hops, and oast n’t believe it. When they houses can still be seen dotted around the village. read our team number In 1849, a cholera epidemic killed 43, with Dame Edith Cavell among out, I started clapping the nurses who came to help and stayed. Other notable residents for the team that won. included the anti-slavery campaigner, William Wilberforce. We never thought it East Farleigh has many war stories, with a German Messerschmitt would be us!” crashing in 1940, and pill boxes along the Medway, with the one east of The leaders of 2nd Coxheath Guides were especially pleased, hav- Farleigh Lock surviving. ing last won the trophy 11 years ago. The group has now won the The book, with a foreword by former MP Ann Widdecombe (who competition the most times in the event’s history. attended the launch reception), has been distributed free to all Challenge Invicta saw 150 girls, aged 10 to 18, take part in a seven- households in the village and is available from the parish council for mile hike, completing tasks every mile for points. £2.50. Book review by Dennis Fowle

4 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News The Cock Inn, Maidstone

Finalists in Kent Food & Drink Awards 2016 Country pub offering freshly cooked homemade food to order, real ales, extensive wine list, great service with a warm welcome. An artist’s impression of the extension to Marden Primary School Open Mon - Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12 noon-10.30pm Plan to extend Food served: Mon - Sat 12-2.30pm, 6-9pm Sunday 12-4pm school delayed A PLAN to almost double the ca-  A purpose-built hall half as big pacity of Marden Primary School is again as the current one absent and will not now be consid-  A larger library ered by KCC before Christmas.  16 classrooms Kent County Council, which has  A new staff room and dedicated completed the consultation on its working space for teachers proposal to expand the Goudhurst Headteacher Malcolm Goddard Road school to take 420 pupils, says has been helped by governors John the move presents an opportunity to Weir, Andy Puncher and Richard end mixed age classes and provide Hawkes to develop the plans. Mar- 01622 743166 places for all Marden children as den Parish Council says expansion Heath Road, , Nr Maidstone, Kent, ME17 4JD more homes are built in the village. of the school is needed to accommo- www.cockinnmaidstone.co.uk The plan is due to go before its ed- date families moving in to 503 new email: [email protected] ucation cabinet shortly. homes so far approved in the vil- A spokesman for KCC said: “The lage. It says 110 Redrow homes at report for Marden has been deferred Highwood Green are almost com- to a later education cabinet commit- plete, with Redrow building an- tee meeting to allow time for further other 144 at The Parsonage. discussions with the school on the Parish council chairman Kate Tip- plans. There are no detailed plans at pen said: “We support the expan- this stage.” sion of the school to serve the homes The current county council draft being built in the area; the speed of proposal would see the primary the housing development we are school, which has a register of 280, less happy about.” become a two-form entry establish- The parish council also wants the ment, accepting 60 reception class county council to remedy parking pupils instead of 40 each year, from and congestion outside the school at September 2018. Facilities proposed busy times. at the extended school will accom- Cllr Tippen said: “We have asked modate: the county council to find a solution  A cookery classroom and to use S106 money to help.” Industrial site hopes to expand PLANS are due to be unveiled for council. A spokesman for Linton the expansion of the Linton indus- Parish Council said local people trial estate to accommodate a new would have concerns as it is a special processing plant. landscape area in a rural setting. The scheme involves the Wares Fruit-packers Berry Gardens Ltd Farm site in Redwall Lane after a and owners Alan Firmin Ltd were fruit-packing business outgrew its due to be on hand to answer ques- premises.The details were to be tions at a presentation at Linton vil- shown to residents ahead of the ap- lage hall on November 28. DHA plication being made to the borough Planners were also due to attend. 4 Free sessions if you enrol before the Homeless man admits thefts end of January 2017 A world class dance A HOMELESS man who stole sat nav, charging cables and win- teacher, teaching locally items from vehicles in Maidstone dow mount worth £250 from a ve- has been jailed for 84 days. hicle in Leicester Road, Maidstone. Weald School of Dance Daniel Reed (38) was sentenced He also stole £220 cash and tobacco at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Court worth £230 from a vehicle in Warn- Tel: 07983266793 where he admitted two counts of ford Gardens, Maidstone. The RAD Rgistered Teacher [email protected] collective mark is a sign of theft from a vehicle. He was jailed for 84 days and or- assurance for safety, quality and Reed, of no fixed address, stole a dered to pay £100 compensation. www.wealdschoolofdance.co.uk professionalism in dance teaching.

Maidstone Weald December 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Festive fun run FANCY dressing up as Santa and burning a few calories this side of Ancient ditch scheme Christmas? Coxheath Primary School will be the starting point for this year’s 5k Santa Run on Sunday, December 4. The race, organised by Beginners will prevent flooding to Runners starts at 10.30am. Every runner will get a Santa suit, hat and A KENT farmer has started an ini- beard, with a medal for all finishers. tiative to create a four-acre wetland The organisers say: “This is a fun which could potentially store and Marden race for all the family, with mince hold back 15m litres of flood water. farmer and pies, food and a Christmas market.” Peter Hall aims to form earth- landowner To enter go to www.beginners2 works which can delay the type of Peter Hall runners/santarun. deluge which has brought misery to and KCC’s communities like . Louise Smith He plans to bring back into use with MP Craft fair date ditches and drainage systems of a SANTA will visit the Crafty Grafty type that have been in use for cen- Christmas craft fair at Grafty Green turies, but which are difficult to farm Mrs Grant said: “I congratulate to follow suit they may just be able village hall on Sunday, December 4. in modern agriculture. They collect Peter Hall and KCC for creating a to make a significant difference to Handmade goods will be on sale water which might otherwise run off wonderful idea. the flooding problem here in the and there will be cake stalls, jew- into streams and rivers. “If we can get other land owners Low Weald.” ellery, cards, gifts, a raffle, hot drinks Mr Hall said: “This is such a win- and mince pies. win for everyone. It is a low-tech, The event runs from 11am to 3pm. low-cost, low-maintenance project Students urged to get involved To book a stall, email Carol- and helps achieve our ‘greening’ ob- THE Environment Agency is appeal- Coast conference in March. [email protected]. jectives under the Common Agricul- ing for fresh inspiration when it Grant Collier, one of the organis- tural Policy.” comes to managing flood risk. ers of the event, said: “There are a Watching role The cost could be less than It is inviting those studying flood growing number of students in- £25,000, mostly funded by Kent management to produce a “cre- volved in environmental, flood and A NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch co- County Council and supported by ative video” looking at how to man- coastal risk management and we ordinator to join the already active Maidstone and the Weald MP Helen age infrastructure, climate change are keen to get them involved.” Grafty Green network, which in- Grant. and community resilience. Entries must be in by Monday, cludes Liverton Hill and Platts The RSPB was also involved in the Winning clips will be shown at the January 30. Full details at Heath. Email Annie Allum at paal- design to create a year-round habi- Environment Agency’s Flood and www.floodandcoast.com. [email protected] tat for wildlife and water fowl. 07711 798941

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 7 News downsmail.co.uk Fine and chase illegal lorries MORE than 2,700 lorries have been dealt with by for unsafe or illegal parking…but it could and should be more, it has been claimed. Since December last year, Kent Po- lice and Highways have moved on, fined or immobilised a Plans for small total of 2,748 lorries as part of joint enforcement work. trucker parks The issue has been highlighted by KENT County Council is the Mid Kent MP Helen Whately, considering a number of small who has secured a government com- lorry parks to accommodate mitment to finding extra spaces lorries and their driver who might where lorries can safely park. Her otherwise park illegally. constituents complain so-called fly- Between three and five as yet parking is dangerous, antisocial, un- MP Helen Whately addresses the transport select committee unidentified sites may be used to hygienic and illegal. supplement a But despite the clampdown, the ceptable and will not be tolerated in ficers visit key locations including large car park practice is still widespread and a Kent. The hard shoulder is not for the A2 near Cobham and Canter- on the M20 daily occurrence in many parts of rest breaks – it is for the use of bro- bury, the M2 Farthing Corner, the which will be the borough and the county. ken down vehicles and the emer- M20 at junctions eight, 11 and 13 and used to meet Now a borough councillor has de- gency services." the A20 at Capel-le-Ferne. the needs of manded that more fixed penalty no- In 10 months, Kent Police has Chief Inspector Tillotson said: Operation tices are issued and the fines moved on 2,249 lorries, issued 476 "Long-distance drivers should know Stack. Matthew Balfour rigorously pursued. graduated fixed penalty notices, im- that there are much better and more More than Residents whose lives are affected mobilised nine vehicles at safe loca- appropriate facilities for HGVs to 10,000 HGVs enter the UK daily by rogue truckers claim they gouge tions until fines were paid and dealt take legally-required rest breaks though the Port of Dover and the deep tyre tracks in soft verges, de- with 14 other offences. such as the county’s various lorry Channel Tunnel. stroy kerbs and toss litter and But Ukip borough councillor parks. Most of the larger haulage firms human waste from their vehicles. Eddie Powell said: “The lorry driv- "Our message is simple – illegal make provision for their vehicles to Officers from the two agencies tar- ers who obviously do not want to and unsafe parking on our county’s stop over at paid-for service geted HGVs parked on the hard pay for parking just park up where roads will not be tolerated and those station spaces or lorry parks. shoulder and motorway slip roads. they feel like and leave all sorts of travelling long distances should take But other, smaller companies Chief Inspector Amanda Tillotson unpleasant mess behind them. responsibility for planning their and their drivers are prepared to of Kent Police said: "While we have “I applaud the actions of these journeys." take the risk of parking illegally. noticed an improvement in behav- agencies but, on a local level, the Tory county councillor Gary KCC spokesman on transport, iour and attitudes, there are still problem is as bad as ever it was. Cooke said: "We need to welcome Matthew Balfour, said that by this some HGV drivers who think they Many people will agree with that. the fact that the police are doing month, a firm of consultants are above the law and continue to They need to issue a lot more tickets more than they were. We can always would produce a commercial park illegally and antisocially on and enforce the fines by making sure do more.” viability assessment for a shortlist hard shoulders and motorway slip the money is collected, otherwise Roads minister John Hayes will of up to five sites for lorry parks in roads. there is no deterrent.” conduct a national survey to deter- the north west of the county. "This kind of behaviour is unac- As part of their regular patrols, of- mine where lorry spaces are needed. Teenager faces Lorry driver sex drugs charges abuse sentence A TEENAGER has been charged A LORRY driver with links across with seven offences of drug push- the country has been jailed for a ing by officers investigating crime number of serious sex offences. in Maidstone. Adam Aitken (28), of Peterbor- Robert Deards (19), was arrested ough, was sentenced to 13 years at by patrols after they became suspi- Peterborough Crown Court after cious of a stationary vehicle in Brenchley Road. He was later admitting six serious sexual of- charged with possessing cocaine fences against children. with intent to supply. Hospice team’s Thames walk The court heard how Aitken car- While in custody, Mr Deards, of ried out sexual abuse, including Hunsdon Close, Eastchurch, was FOUR members of the care team Helen is the care co-ordinator. rape, on his young male victims also charged with six unrelated of- at Demelza Kent took on a 50km The route took them along the dating back to 2008. fences. These concern alleged drug challenge to raise money for the Thames riverbank, from Putney Detective Chief Inspector Jon supply in Rainham, Medway. children’s hospice. Bridge to Runnymede. McAdam, said: “We believe he had Three other people, all from Amanda Heath, Debbie They also raised over £1,000 links to the Bedfordshire, Glouces- Maidstone, were also arrested in McSwiney, Helen Rolls, and Vicky through sponsorship, a music and tershire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lin- Brenchley Road. They are a 50 year- Tyler took 13 hours to complete curry night as well as a quiz and colnshire, Norfolk, Northampton old man, a 21-year-old man and a the Thames Path Challenge in aid fish and chips evening. shire, Nottinghamshire, Surrey, 17-year-old boy. of Demelza Hospice Care for The trek – which is equivalent to West Yorkshire and Scotland areas. They have been bailed, pending Children. about 30 miles – left them with a “We have trained officers avail- Amanda, from Maidstone, works few blisters and missing a few further enquiries, until February 1, able to anyone who would like to as the clinical governance co- toenails, but overall they were in 2017. discuss their case. Please call the ordinator, while Debbie, from good spirits. Anyone who sees anything sus- Operation Dunholt team at Cam- picious or has any information Ashford, is the care services lead Their JustGiving page is still for Kent. Vicky, from Faversham, is open for donations at bridgeshire Constabulary on 101.” should call 101, or 999 if it is an Aitken was also put on the sex of- emergency. Alternatively, contact a children’s palliative care www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ assistant. Sittingbourne-based Helen-Rolls2. fenders register and made subject Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 55511. of a sexual harm prevention order.

8 Maidstone Weald December 2016

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Marden speed Call to act on homelessness LIBERAL Democrat candidate Emily Fermor has spoken out about the plight of Maidstone’s homeless. Miss Fermor (23), who will take on MP Helen Grant at the next general election, said unaffordable rents are a major factor in homelessness. limit proposed The former In- victa Grammar NEW speed limits are being pro- county council says it intends the School pupil said: posed in areas around Marden in restriction to run along part of “Here in Kent it is response to growing concern Hunton Road and the entire length becoming increas- about “mindless” motoring in the of Dairy Lane, but the parish coun- ingly difficult to village. cil is asking for this to be extended find somewhere It is a cause of concern that has to encompass more of the proper- they can call home. brought together the parish coun- ties in Chainhurst to the north. “The cost of get- cil, county councillor Paulina A spokesman for the parish ting onto the hous- Stockell, SpeedWatch volunteers council added: “Speeding, parking ing ladder is a and residents in a united campaign on pavements, parking restrictions well-documented to improve road safety in the vil- and pedestrian crossings are all hot challenge, but for lage. topics and we would like to reas- many people even A recent survey showed one in sure residents that the parish coun- finding somewhere affordable to rent is just as big 19 drivers caught by SpeedWatch cil is being proactive on these a challenge. cameras in Kent are travelling at issues.” “It is just a case of needing somewhere, any- more than twice the recommended Villagers were thanked for com- where, where they can sleep in safety.” speed limit. pleting the recent parking ques- According to the charity Porchlight, 223 people Cllr Paulina Stockell has now tionnaire, which will be discussed were sleeping rough in Kent from April to June called on the county council to de- further with Maidstone Council. 2016 – twice the figure for the same period in velop schemes for 20mph speed Chairman Cllr Kate Tippen said 2015. There has been a trebling of under 25s limits outside of four schools, in- the council was also pressing for sleeping rough. cluding Marden Primary and has more than just its one current Miss Fermor (right) added: “Local authorities pledged to campaign to make the pedestrian crossing and would be and charities work hard to provide support to the advisory speeds enforceable. pressing for Section 106 money for homeless, particularly high-priority cases like mothers with young children, She has also agreed to fund a crossings promised at Highwood but for many others, particularly single men, the situation is desperate. 40mph speed limit to replace the Green and near the station. “Having nowhere to call home often leads to physical and mental health 60mph permitted speed in Chain- She also called on anyone inter- issues and can lead to other social problems. Is this really good enough for hurst, the details of which have just ested in joining the SpeedWatch 21st-century Britain? I don’t think so.” been published by KCC. The team to contact the parish clerk.

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10 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Homes plan brings traffic fears

DEVELOPERS have dismissed ted developments to contribute to the 30mph speed limit to slow traf- SITES APPROVED extra traffic as a reason for refusing the cost of the works in appropriate fic passing the sites, currently another 126 homes in Staplehurst. shares, to enable implementation of recorded at an average 48mph. THREE applications for housing in An outline application for grazing the mitigation scheme and hence re- It says its development of 107 two, Staplehurst were approved last land south of Marden Road – oppo- lease the sites for development.” three, and four-bed homes and 19 month by the borough council. site the 250-dwelling development at It admits that the Station Road flats (40% affordable housing) Land north of Headcorn Road Hen and Duckhurst Farm – would junction is already approaching over would be accessed via a simple pri- will be the site for 167 homes and take the total number of properties capacity and the addition of traffic ority junction off Marden Road. 391 parking spaces. being proposed in the area to 887. flows from the committed develop- Maidstone Council, which will de- A scheme for 110 homes at Staplehurst Developments sug- ments in the area so far would take termine the application, had identi- Stanley Farm on the Headcorn gests that in spite of a possible su- the junction over capacity on both fied the site for development in an Road was passed despite concerns permarket being added to the mix, a Headcorn Road and Marden Road. earlier draft of its local plan but re- about flooding. contribution towards improvements Its development would generate 138 jected it on the basis of drainage is- Development of a site at Fishers to the Marden Road/Station Road traffic movements a day. sues, which the developer says have Farm, Fishers Road, for 185 homes signalised junction would overcome It says a traffic-calming scheme as been resolved with the Environment – 74 to be affordable – was given the problem of increased traffic. part of the Hen and Duckhurst Farm Agency, and increased traffic. the go-ahead. In its report to Maidstone Council, development would assist by intro- Staplehurst Parish Council will All are subject to junction and the developer states: “It would be ducing a series of speed cushions, a consider the outline proposal at its transport modifications. appropriate for each of the commit- gateway feature and an extension of planning meeting on December 5. Second arson aack on charity stables ASTABLE blockbelonging to an book: "Cowardly scum came back, having already suffered extensive animal welfare charity has been torched the stables this time. damage at the time of crews arrival burnt down in a second arson at- Game over. You win. Horses are the stable was allowed to burn tack in the space of a week. unharmed thank god." under controlled conditions." The blaze started in the building No animals were in the stables It comes days after a storage at Pukka Ponies' field in Dean at the time of the fire. shed was torched late last Satur- Street, East Farleigh around A spokesman for Kent Fire and day or early the following day. 9.30pm yesterday. Rescue Service said by the time Pukka Ponies is attempting to find Sarah Daniell runs the stables crews arrived on Saturday night temporary homes for its rescue an- which rescues abandoned horses the building was well alight. imals while it searches for a new The stable block was burned down and ponies. She reported on Face- They said: "Due to the structure site, somewhere near Maidstone. Tailor makes a 6” Mistake

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 11 orchard o dental practice

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12 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Needle naer ‘Daily drug-testing and TWELVE ladies enjoyed a range of craftwork at the first Needles and Natter session at the Hunton Vil- lage Club. Some knitted, one made friend- forced labour in prison’ ship bracelets for Brownies, one quilted, one discussed the best way to manage paper patterns in differ- FORMER Maidstone MP Ann Wid- ing sizes and two learned the first decombe says prisoners in Britain’s steps in crochet. drug-riddled jails should be made Another member decided to take to work all week and be subject to a slightly different appraoch by daily drug-testing. sketching a picture of the others at The former shadow prisons min- work. Anyone who would like to ister said if her suggestion for a join in a craft pastime is welcome to regime of compulsory weekday join the group. labour was adopted in the late 1990s Members of the Needles and prisons “might be presenting a Former Maidstone rather different picture” today. Natter group meet at the Hunton MP Ann Earlier this year, Downs Mail re- Village Club at 8pm on the third vealed how Maidstone Prison was Widdecombe and Friday of the month. harbouring a worrying drug prob- left, Maidstone lem, where vulnerable inmates were Prison Festive supper used to test smuggled “legal highs” In an article for a daily newspaper, Ukip councillor Eddie Powell FESTIVE flavours were to be sam- to see if they were safe. Ms Widdecombe said: “Rehabilita- agreed with Miss Widdecombe’s as- pled at a wine tasting and supper The use of drones to deliver drugs tion is prisons is not…a manifesta- sessment and called for a far tougher called Christmas in Eight Bottles at was also noted in an independent tion of a soft, wet, ultra-liberal regime in prisons. Hunton Village Club on Saturday, monitor’s report. approach…if the man who leave the Cllr Powell added: “We need to November 26. Miss Widdecombe says idleness prison gates is no better prepared to hire another 10,000 prison officers. takes up too much of the day and is live a law-abiding life.” “We need to be tougher on drugs. behind the recent outbreak of disor- She adds: “A prisoner found with I’d like to see single cells for prison- CCTV scheme der in some jails in the UK as well as drugs in his or her system should ers and a regime of work and activi- A CCTV camera has been installed the continued threat of industrial ac- automatically lose remission rather ties, as well as education. at Marden Playing Field. tion by prison officers. than just privileges, but they have to “You hear stories of people with The parish council has decided to She argues that education and re- believe they’ll be caught and that mobile phones, Facebook accounts use a mobile camera to monitor any habilitation can go a long way to means vastly expanding the pro- and computer games. That can’t be potential antisocial behaviour in preventing reoffending, ultimately grammes of random testing and, if right. Prison should mean prison the area around the changing saving the tax-payer money. necessary, testing every day.” and the sentence served in full.” rooms and playing spaces. WINDOWS & DOORS REQUIRING T.L.C? DON’T REPLACE THEM MAINTAIN THEM! MAINTAINING YOUR EXISTING WINDOWS & DOORS IS CONSIDERABLY MORE COST EFFECTIVE AND MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY THAN REPLACING. UPGRADING TO ENERGY EFFICIENT BFRC A & B RATED GLASS WILL HELP SAVE YOU MONEY ON BILLS. Fairdeal are local specialists in the repair, upgrade and maintenance of double glazed windows and doors. We repair PVCu, Aluminium & Timber Fogged double glazed Local Authority Approved glass units - replaced NO Call out charge with with energy rated glass Free Quotations & Advice Handles & mechanisms repaired & replaced We were pleased with the work Fairdeal Windows previously carried out on our porch, so we Window and door hinges went back to them for windows. We are very pleased with the windows and the installers. We and stays “ couldn't fault the work they carried out plus they left everything clean and tidy. Thanks to all Leak and draught repairs the staff too. ” Mr H. - Snodland We supply & install windows, doors & conservatories including UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering Call 01622 902005 FOR FAST FRIENDLY QUOTES & ADVICE www.fairdealwindows.co.uk Celebrating over 25 years of continuous trading Find us at: Unit K, Orchard Business Centre, 20/20 Industrial Estate, Aylesford, Kent ME16 0JZ

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 13 News downsmail.co.uk

Fancy dress Drug-driving winners Emily Bacon and Sophie Cramp collect their prizes from is ‘on the rise’ judge Cllr Paulina STARTLING new figures show vision. KCC road safety team Stockell, and that the number of accidents on leader Vicky Watkins said: “Our below, a Kent roads involving drivers on message is clear: Don’t let drugs young visitor drugs is rising. take the driving seat; it affects your learns to press The data shows that in the past ability to concentrate, to react in an apples two years, drug-taking was the emergency and to perceive accu- cause of seven deaths, 200 crashes rately what’s going on around and 29 serious injuries on the you.” Orchard fun for spooks county’s roads. Since last year, Kent Police have A leading drug-driving expert been able to carry mobile drug- SPOOKS were treated to a fun day at Yalding Fen with apple pressing, wand has described the never-before- screening devices which can and lantern making, storytelling, food foraging and fancy dress. seen figures as “worrying”, saying quickly identify the presence of County Cllr Paulina Stockell and Cllr Geral- that many users still don’t realise drugs including ecstasy, LSD, ket- dine Brown, chairman of Yalding Parish Coun- the devastating effect that illegal amine, heroin and cocaine and cil, judged the fancy dress competition. First drugs can have on a driver. cannabis in a driver’s body at the prize of a family return rail ticket to London, Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue roadside. courtesy of Southeastern, went to Emily Service and Kent County Council A staggering 8,000 motorists Bacon. Second prize went to Daniel Gent and have now combined forces to raise have been arrested across Britain third was Sophie Cramp. There were also prizes awareness of the problem. for failing the test since its intro- for those travelling to the event by train. Cllr Stockell said: “It was a lovely day and the They are re-issuing a warning in duction. apple juice pressed by the children was deli- the run up to Christmas that they Inspector Sam Pearson, from cious. It was hard to choose the best fancy will be targeting anyone who puts Kent Police, said: “We will continue dress, as they were all so good.” others’ lives at risk behind the to target drivers who put other peo- The event was organised by the Kent Com- wheel of a car through drink or ple in danger.” munity Rail Partnership with Medway Valley drugs. Drivers who are under the influ- Countryside Partnership, Yalding Parish Coun- Some of the effects of drug-tak- ence of drugs can also suffer from cil, Save Our Magnificent Meadows and Kent ing on drivers can include dizzi- erratic and aggressive behaviour, Orchards for Everyone. ness, hallucinations and blurred nausea, panic attacks, paranoia,

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14 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News THE Prisoners hear Holocaust talk POTTING A PERSONAL account of Nazi Eva’s family also were captured SHED holocaust in the German death by the Nazis in May 1944 and camps of WWII was heard by in- taken to Auschwitz. Her father and mates at HMP Park brother did not survive the ordeal, Now taking bookings for our prison from a relative of one of but she and her mother were freed the war’s most defiant characters. in 1945 by Russian troops. This was the final public presen- Anne’s father Otto, who also sur- Festive Winter Menu tation by Anne Frank’s half-sister. vived, later married Eva’s mother. Eva Schloss (89) agreed to visit Both families faced the heartbreak Mon 21st Nov, until Sat 24th Dec 2016 the prison, near Maidstone, to of losing parents, brothers, sisters Served daily 12pm to 9.30pm (pre booking required) share her experiences in an effort and extended family. to inspire inmates to move forward Eva’s visit to the women’s prison Lunch 3 course £25pp and live fulfilling lives. was part of a week-long exhibition (2 course available Monday to Thursday £20pp) The Holocaust survivor spoke by the Anne Frank Trust – of which 3 course Dinner Mon-Thu £28pp, Fri & Sat £30pp about her ordeal during Hitler’s she is a founding member – which regime and how she and her fam- gave inmates an opportunity to Sundays booking available from 5pm, £25 per person ily learned to cope. learn about the historical events of A moving DVD was also shown, WWII as part of a project run by Starters telling the tragic story of Anne, education provider, Novus. who died along with most of her Ruth Eagles, who manages the Honey roasted parsnip, chestnut & truffle soup family in the Bergen-Belsen con- Novus courses at East Sutton Park, Kentish wild game terrine centration camp. said: “Eva is an inspiration to all of Coquille Saint Jacques, (supplement £3) She left behind perhaps the most us – a Holocaust survivor with so Baked Camembert famous diary to have been written much knowledge and courage, Dry gin & lime cured salmon in the 20th century, which has been people were captivated by her.” Superfood salad translated into 67 languages and Inmates received mentoring cer- has sold 30 million copies. tificates from the Anne Frank Trust Mains Anne’s moving account of her and a signed copy of Eva’s book, Kentish free range roast turkey life hiding from the Nazis has be- Eva’s Story, which is part of her 28 day matured English beef fillet, (supplement £5) come compelling reading and ends work to educate the world about Sea bass fillet at the point at which they were dis- the Holocaust and for which she Slow cooked English lamb shoulder covered. received an MBE in 2012. Festive nut roast Turbot fillet, (supplement £5) Puddings Traditional Christmas pudding, Brandy sauce Vanilla bean crème brûlée, spiced cinnamon shortbread biscuit Bramley apple & pear crumble, Chocolate & pecan brownie, orange & Cointreau ice cream Selection of British & Continental cheeses, (supplement £3)

Early Christmas midweek offer Mon 21st Nov until Thur 1st Dec £21pp 3 courses, lunch or dinner Early Christmas weekend offer A new era for refurbished pub Fri 18th, Sat 19th, Fri 25th & Sat 26th Nov, Fri 2nd & Sat 3rd Dec £25pp, 3 courses, lunch or dinner THE Potting Shed in Langley (pictured) has opened its doors to the public. It follows a dramatic change of fortune for the former 16th century Late Christmas offer Crown and Horseshoes pub on the Sutton Road and months of work and Thur 5th & Fri 6th Jan, Mon 9th until Fri 13th Jan £21pp a major investment. Sat 7th & Sat 14th Jan £25 per person Villagers enjoyed the first look around the extended and refurbished in- terior with a free tasting before the official opening. The pub had closed 3 courses, lunch or dinner for several years before its renovation. The re-opening brings Elite’s portfolio of pubs across Kent and Sussex to seven. The company founder, Martial Chaussy, from , prides Book Now for himself on a reputation for turning round run-down pubs. Here, he has continued his crusade to resurrect the community pub, NEW YEARS EVE opening early for breakfast and serving coffee all day while creating a taste of London dining in the heart of Langley. It’s a recipe that has worked for Saturday 31st December 2016 the firm elsewhere, with other popular restaurants in the group including Prosecco Brut & Canapés reception the Dirty Habit at Hollingbourne and the Farm House in West Malling. Celebration 5-course menu with choice The roof is part-cloaked with natural grasses and there is a vaulted din- 7pm for drinks, food served 8pm, dancing until 2am, £55pp ing room, which opens onto a large terrace and garden. There is also a wood-fired pizza oven and a “theatre kitchen”, visible to diners, and an on- site herb and vegetable garden. A private function room caters for up to 35 guests, which will be hosting The Potting Shed its first parties in time for Christmas. Sutton Road, Langley, Maidstone, Kent ME17 3LZ 01622 862 112

Maidstone Weald December 2016 15 Festive Dining

Christmas festivities are just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to letting our hair down and THE KNOXBRIDGE celebrating in style. Make your plans early so not to miss Newly re opened and refurbished out on the fantastic deals being offered by your local pubs, •Real ales •Open fire and beautiful décor including a hotels and restaurants. charming restaurant The Knoxbridge, Frittenden has Now in full season party mode, •Christmas and party bookings now being taken. recently been transformed into a the Hawkenbury has a different Open Christmas Day and throughout Christmas delightful wayside inn boasting a New Year’s Eve Party offering. •Pub classics and weekly specials all prepared by our relaxing, comfortable Recognizing that many French Chef offering an interesting and varied menu atmosphere, a fine array of wines customers want to celebrate New and seven real ale pumps, a Year’s Eve in style, but neither •Children welcome – Garden and Play Area charming dining area and an want to spend £55 plus per head, beautifully enclosed garden area. or indeed want to stay out until Opening Hours: Monday You can be sure of an extremely after mid-night, the Hawkenbury Closed all Day warm welcome from both Tony celebrations start earlier for those Tues-Thur – 12pm-9pm. and Wendi and if you’re feeling early birds and families, from Food Served 12pm-8pm hungry, an interestingly varied 6.30 pm, allowing festive fun for Fri & Sat 12pm-10pm. Food menu is available, all prepared by those who want to celebrate Food Served 12pm-9pm an experienced French Chef. earlier in the evening. Fine dining Sunday 12pm-6pm. Limited party bookings are still with some of the patron’s Food Served 12pm-3pm available for groups or more favorites on the menu is available intimate dining. Please see for £25.00, (£15 for children u.12). Cranbrook Rd, TN17 2BT 01580 895374 www.theknoxbridge.co.uk www.theknoxbridge.co.uk for The late-night party goers can more details. have the same menu served 8.30 -

The Hawkenbury Nr Staplehurst TN12 0DZ

Pre-Christmas Party Menu £25.00 Christmas Day Menu Only one sitting - £65.00 Senior Citizens £60.00, kids U.12 £35 New Year¶s Eve - £25- Party Dining Evening (early birds from 6.30 pm), 3 Course fine dining plus welcome drink

New Year¶s Day ± Sunday Roasts and full menu Party Dining Evening - £25.00 available Full details on web site For menus go to web site: Or Phone 01580 890567 http://www.thehawkenburyinn.com/

16 Maidstone Weald December 2016 Festive Dining EARLY BIRD OFFER All Indian food served in the restaurant between 5.30pm–6.00pm will be 9.30 pm before the tables are Julie and Tony very much look cleared for the late-night party. forward to welcoming you all. HALF PRICE Booking essential. New Year’s The Christmas menu is available Day has full menu availability from the 4th December so do not and the ever-popular Sunday delay in booking your table Roasts. Booking advised. today! Why not bring the family Liz, the proprietor, says ‘Having to the turning on of the Christmas been at The Krishna in Headcorn lights on Saturday 3rd December. since 1990, we have celebrated 25 As well as boasting a delicious Christmases here. Our lovely menu, a full range of traditional Tudor building with its low oak ales, lagers and fine wines are beams, looks its festive best with offered as well as Sky Sports and the Christmas tree with twinkling BT Sports so you can relax and lights. In the last few years’, we watch your favourite match. have noticed how many children are into their curry and I hope that the EARLY BIRD OFFER will enable more On Saturdays & Sundays in November and December young families and (excluding Christmas Eve) friends to socialise together. We look forward to seeing you Book early for Headcorn Victorian Evening all. Saturday 3rd December The George, Yalding is a family run pub. 41 HIGH STREET, HEADCORN, KENT, TN27 9NL | 01622 890665 | WWW.KRISHNAHEADCORN.COM Owners Christopher,

he Georg T YALDING e Saturday 3rd December Village Christmas lights turn on

3rd December - Yule tide lights turning on. Lots happening at The George and in Yalding. A barbeque, raffles, Santa will be present, face painting and lots more followed by ‘Mystery Machine’ taking us through the night. The family warmly 24th December - DJ Simon taking us through the night with some great music welcome you to starting at 8.30pm till 1.00am The George Inn, Yalding. 31st December - Chris Clarke Atmospheric family friendly pub, back due to popular demand for our New Years Eve party!! outside events including a great garden for many uses including new Hog Roast • Face Painting • Carol Singing fishing facilties and live music. Charity Raffle • DJ and more Christmas menu available from December 4th 01622 814376 Sunday Roasts The George Yalding 12-8pm Road, Yalding, Now showing (booking advisable). Maidstone, Kent ME18 6EJ www.thegeorgeyalding.co.uk

Maidstone Weald December 2016 17 News downsmail.co.uk

THE Kent Police Male Voice Choir your feet tapping no matter what event will raise funds for local char- Police choir in is to hold a Christmas concert at the your age. Tickets are £8.50 – call ities. Vine Church, Boughton Lane, Maid- Terry Kinsman on 01622 730119 or Rotary supports mainly small stone, at 3.30pm on December 4. email [email protected] local charities, but also helps with charity concert There will be Christmas music, The concert is presented by Kent disaster relief by the rapid deploy- ranging from old favourites to new Police Male Voice Choir and the ment of “Shelter Boxes” across the for Christmas pieces, which are guaranteed to set Rotary Club of Maidstone. The world. Town middle Revamped Morrisons is of pay league WORKERS in Maidstone earn nearly £4,000 less than their coun- terparts in Tonbridge and Malling. ready for a big relaunch But the latest figures show that while the county town is still half way down the league table in Kent WORK to extend the Morrisons store in Sutton Road should be complete by with an average salary of £29,592, it the end of the month. remains higher than the UK aver- age and £5,000 more than wages in But the chain has rejected claims Thanet. the supermarket has become a The Office for National Statistics “parking hell” while the expansion says the UK average annual earn- is completed. ings are £28,213 and £33,776 in Lon- Downs Mail received an angry don. phone call from a customer who Kent wages league table claimed she was stuck in a one way 1 Tonbridge and Malling ...£33.372 traffic jam for more than 15 min- 2. Dartford...... £32.233 utes on the way into the popular 3. Sevenoaks...... £30,989 store and then spent 10 minutes 4. Tunbridge Wells ...... £29,962 touring the car park looking for a 5. Gravesham ...... £29,623 space. 6. Maidstone...... £29,592 The mother of two said: “I use 7. Canterbury...... £27,949 Morrisons because it is handy for 8. Ashford...... £27.795 my home in Shepway and it’s a 9. Swale...... £27,501 good place to shop but lately it’s 10. Dover...... £25,254 been hard to get into the place and 11. Shepway...... £24,527 even harder to find a space. 12. Thanet...... £24,150 “It’s been a bit hellish, if I’m hon- est. When you finally get into the place, you have to tour round and Date for song round to find a place to put the car. THERE’S a chance to get in tune for “I don’t like to knock the place as have been lost during the work on December 8. Christmas with an evening of car- it is a great place to shop and the but one way systems have been There will be significantly ex- ols – some audience participation – staff there are ever so helpful, but put in place to ensure safety dur- tended shop floor space with new and a glass of wine with The Maid- they need to get the car parking ing the renovations. departments and ranges to stone Singers. sorted or people will be going The car park and store exterior choose from. They will be performing at St elsewhere. are monitored regularly for is- Extra staff were hired before Martin’s Church in Shepway under “I realise there’s work going on sues and there were none on the the renovation work was started the guidance of Kathryn Ridgeway at the store and they have to day the reader complained of, al- so they would be bedded in be- from 7.30pm on December 13 and bring in the equipment they need though the store had been busy, fore the official relaunch date. 14. You can book a table for the in- to do it but it has become a bit in- the spokesman said. The store will also be equipped formal gathering at the church in convenient.” The work will be completed by with more reliable, environmen- Northumberland Road. Tickets are A supermarket spokesman has the end of November and the tally-friendly fridges and freez- £12 and available by calling 01622 told us that only eight spaces store’s relaunch will take place ers. 630016.

18 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Mote Park is people’s choice MAIDSTONE'S Mote Park is one borough.” of the UK’s favourite open spaces. International Green Flag Award It is ranked in the top 10 of the Manager Paul Todd said: “We Green Flag People Awards which would like to congratulate Mote attracted more than 30,000 votes for Park on being voted one of the a variety of parkland across the UK’s 10 favourite parks – it is quite . an achievement. Mote Park was recognised in the “The Green Flag Awards are "people's choice" category, which judged every year by more than reflects its popularity among local 800 volunteer judges, but the Peo- people and visitors. ple’s Choice is the public’s oppor- Voters were asked to score the tunity to vote for their favourite park for its cleanliness, facilities, parks and it is wonderful that more public green space up and down appreciated by the public.” events and overall appeal. than 30,000 people have done just the country, along with hundreds Mote Park provides an all- Maidstone Borough Council's that this year as the scheme cele- of thousands of volunteers. More weather play area and water sports David Pickett said: "Mote Park rep- brates its 20th anniversary. than 1,700 parks this year are flying facilities as well as annual events resents one of the finest and most “Winning a Green Flag Award is the Green Flag Award and the Peo- such as charity fun runs, music fes- popular attractions in the borough testament to the hard work of local ple’s Choice Award shows them tivals and nature trails. of Maidstone. authorities and the managers of just how much that hard work is Photo by Russell Cleggett "Thanks in no small part to the range of events and activities hosted throughout the year, plus Pupils inspired by science the magnificent maintenance work TALENTED pupils at St Simon Stock Catholic School spent and the efforts of volunteers at the a day in the world of science, technology, engineering park, we’re exceptionally proud and mathematics, the so-called STEM subjects. that Mote Park has been named Representatives from 40 local organisations were among the UK’s 10 most popular invited to the school to lead workshops to help pupils in public spaces. years seven to 11 learn about career opportunities. “Whether it’s for those looking to Science teacher Julia Whitehead said: “Our pupils experience nature and wide-open learned a lot in just one day and really enjoyed the spaces, to picnic with the family or variety of activities that they could access. This will enjoy the water sports, or even to hopefully inspire many to take up future careers in STEM welcome internationally acclaimed subjects”. events and concerts, Mote Park rep- Year 7 pupil Ben Glanfield is pictured at the event. resents all that is great about the

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 19 News downsmail.co.uk Village’s plan gets go-ahead Eclipse Park plan for VILLAGERS in Staplehurst have ap- proved their own Neighbourhood Plan to challenge the borough coun- cil over development decisions in future. £14m store is agreed More than a third of homeowners turned out to return the resounding A £14M Waitrose will be built at ‘Yes’ vote. Eclipse Park in Maidstone near Voting was as follows: the M20. Votes cast: 1,586 (33.77% turnout) Members of Maidstone Borough Yes: 1,468 (92.56%) Council's planning committee ap- No: 118 (7.44%) proved the new food store – The referendum result will be re- thought to be the biggest in the ported to Maidstone Borough county – by 10 votes to one. Council’s full council in December, If work goes ahead according to when the Staplehurst Neighbour- plan, the new shop, near junction hood Plan will be adopted. seven of the M20, is unlikely to A spokesman for the parish coun- open before spring 2018 but could cil’s Neighbourhood Plan Group create more than 200 local jobs. build-ups in the area, but withdrew Hilton at Eclipse Park. thanked all those who voted. Cllr David Burton, chairman of its concerns when pledges were Other sites considered included The plan can be viewed at MBC's Strategic Planning, Sustain- made to provide bus routes to and Baltic Wharf on St Peter’s Street www.staplehurstvillage.org.uk/nei ability and Transport committee, from the store. and the empty Royal Mail sorting ghbourhood_forum1.aspx, with sought to play down fears of traffic Arriva will operate the services to office site in central Maidstone, al- hard copies available to view at the problems in an already busy road stops on the Road on the though none was thought to offer parish office and at Staplehurst li- network. existing 333 and 334 services. the same as the site which is owned by Gallagher Properties. brary. The member for Marden and Cllr Burton said that shoppers Yalding told Downs Mail: “You can tended to use the nearest and most A Waitrose spokesman said: balance an increase in movements convenient food store to where “The proposed food store serves a Call to players with the fact that the park and ride they live, but could see customers different catchment to Allington MONDAY Badminton Club, based is not there any more. coming from areas such as Vinters Park, and analysis suggests there at New Line Learning Academy, “Whilst the store will bring some Park, and Grove would be limited overlap of trade Loose, is on the lookout for new more traffic, we have got some Green, which already has a large between the two locations.” members. The club meets from money to improve that junction.” and popular Tesco. It is estimated that construction 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Mondays. Call Kent County Council had offered The Waitrose will sit alongside will take nine months, plus a two- 0770 900244. some observations about traffic other chains such as Next and month internal fit-out. MAIDSTONE AUTOCENTRE LTD KENT’S LEADING CONVERTIBLE STOCKIST OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MON-SAT 8.30-17.00 SUN 10.00-15.00 SALES • FINANCE • SERVICE www.maidstoneautocentre.co.uk TOP PRICES PAID FOR LOW MILEAGE CARS Ring now for the best offer 07774 612199 20 Bow Road • Wateringbury • Maidstone • Kent • ME18 5DD Tel: 01622 812234 • Mobile 07774 612199

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 21 News downsmail.co.uk Drink driver A FARLEIGH Hill man has avoided prison after a string of driving of- Security officers help fences. Marian Mirea was sentenced at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Court after admitting driving while disquali- to keep streets safer fied, without insurance and drink driving. Mirea (29), of Farleigh Hill, THEY might look slightly sinister saw a trial of a new scheme to fur- Maidstone, was stopped a Citroen with their dark uniforms under ther cement the successful partner- C1 in Station Hill, Maidstone. He night-time urban street-lighting, ship approach that Maidstone takes gave a breath test of 94mg of alco- but these are actually the good to managing the night time econ- hol in 100 ml of breath. The legal guys of Maidstone. omy. limit is 35mg. He was jailed for 120 Out on patrol over the Halloween “Four town centre marshals sup- day, suspended for 24 months, and weekend – when the pubs and plied by TMS Protection took to the banned him from driving. clubs are full of revellers – these streets to support the existing serv- town centre marshals were part of a ices delivered by Urban Blue and Escaped jail trial scheme to help manage the the Street Pastors, to act as ambas- A DRIVER who committed a series night-time economy. sadors for the town and to provide of offences has escaped jail. Provided by Maidstone-based assistance to the police where ap- Rafal Tylkowski, 29, pleading TMS Protection, four operatives propriate. guilty to aggravated vehicle taking, were out and about to support the “The trial was seen as very posi- driving otherwise than in accor- services already on offer by Urban tive and the marshals’ friendly but dance with a licence, driving with- Blue and the Street Pastors. vigilant approach lent an addi- out insurance and failing to provide According to One Maidstone, the tional level of security to the volun- a breath specimen. town centre business partnership teers working in the town and, of Tylowski, of an unknown ad- scheme, the TMS staffers were course, to the night economy cus- dress, took a Ford Focus without there to act as ambassadors for the tomers themselves. the owner’s consent and caused county town and to add back-up, “Research will now be under- damage to it. should the police require it. taken by participating agencies, He drove the vehicle in Royal En- Now a study is being conducted MaidSafe, the town’s crime reduc- gineers’ Road, Maidstone, with no to evaluate whether the scheme can tion partnership and the police, to insurance and failed to give a be made to work more regularly ascertain the viability of the scheme breath sample. after its successful try-out. on a more regular footing. Magistrates sentenced Tylkowski One Maidstone spokesman Ilsa “This project is in addition to the to 12 weeks in prison, suspended Butler said: “Halloween weekend, regular police work that covers the for 12 months and banned him traditionally one of the busiest in night-time economy and supports from driving for 36 months. the pubbing and clubbing calendar, all agencies.”

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 23 News | Roads and housing downsmail.co.uk Councils clash over housing MAIDSTONE Council chiefs have sent a thinly-veiled warning to neighbouring Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council to ease up on planning proposals which border its boundaries. Responding to TMBC’s Local Hermitage Lane and A26, the latter Howard Rogers, the cabinet Plan consultation, Maidstone’s having already been subject to a member in charge of panning at chief executive Alison Broom (pic- significant increase in traffic fol- TMBC, said: “We have gone out tured below) said her residents lowing developments at Kings with The Way Forward (consulta- have been in contact to “express Hill.” tion) document and are awaiting their gave con- The letter highlights potential the responses to come back. That cerns”. proposals on the Maidstone border particular issue has not been given A letter to at South Aylesford and Ditton to us by Maidstone Borough Coun- the head of which “suffers from severe traffic cil up to now but, at these early planning pol- congestion” and raises the “current stages, we will get these responses icy Ian Bailey problems around Hermitage Lane in and qualify accordingly. was described and the A20. “I am aware there are traffic is- by one sea- It adds: “Focus in this regard sues in that part of Maidstone and soned observer should be upon an alternative I am aware of a lot of development of local politics route that draws road traffic away work. We are a long, long way described as a from this part of the A20 and Her- away from looking at planning ap- “declaration of mitage Lane in particular, whilst plications but rather looking at war”. having regard to mitigating con- where potential building could It states: “Should Tonbridge and gestion and improving traffic flows A protester at Hermitage Lane happen and what would be needed Malling Borough Council proceed on the wider road network in the “open space as part of any devel- in terms of infrastructure to ac- with its development strategy, mit- area.” commodate it.” opment, in order to address this igating transport impacts on al- The letter says that the proposal One local planning observer told ready busy routes into Maidstone could “also allow settlements to co- issue, should therefore be a prior- Downs Mail it was “a highly signif- will be vital, including the A20, alesce with Maidstone” and that ity”. icant letter – a declaration of war”. Drivers face MP fails in bid to get plans diversions as roads close for A274 homes ‘called in’ A ROAD near Maidstone is AN ATTEMPT to have the govern- due to be shut for up to 15 days ment “call in” three controversial for telecoms work to be carried proposals for housing develop- out. ments on the A274 Sutton Road has The closure comes in on Jan- failed. uary 3 next year in Back Street, MP Helen Whately put the case near the villages of Leeds and to the Minister for Housing and Langley, at the junction with Planning, Gavin Barwell, in an ef- Avery Lane. fort to have them reconsidered. Kent County Council sug- Mrs Whately gests drivers use the alterna- (pictured) said tive route via Back Street, she was “out- Caring Lane, Forge Lane, B2163 raged” earlier Upper Street, Horseshoes this year when Lane, Back Street and vice the three plans versa. were put before The closure is to enable the Maidstone Bor- House-building in the Sutton Road area has been blamed for traffic problems installation of a new street cab- ough Council’s major national heritage site. It’s south east division seat on Kent inet to be carried out by BT (MBC) planning committee before disappointing, of course, and I am County Council at next May’s elec- Openreach. the Local Plan Inspector had a afraid there is no next move from tions. There is also to be a tempo- chance to consider them. They me. The sitting Tory member for the rary road closure at Caring have since been approved. “I will continue to oppose the area, Gary Cooke, has been im- Road, near Leeds, from No- The three sites which are next schemes.” placably opposed to the develop- vember 28, 2016, for up to five door to the large Langley Park de- MBC had commissioned its own ments. days for housebuilding to take velopment would see another consultants who agreed the junc- He said: “Putting hundreds and place. 1,300 homes built on the A274. tions serving the new develop- hundreds of extra houses onto the The road will be closed be- The MP, county councillors and ments would be at over-capacity Sutton Road without properly mit- tween Lane and Caring parish councillors have expressed but was happy the developers igating for the transport conse- Farm. profound worries about the effect could mitigate against this. quences is just madness. The suggested alternative the housing will have on already- Kent County Council – the “Considering that each of these route is via Caring Lane, A20 stretched roads, especially at peak county’s highways authority – dis- new houses may have one or two times. Ashford Road and Otham puted the A274 could cope with cars each, not to mention the Mrs Whately told Downs Mail: Lane and vice versa. the extra traffic. houses that remain unsold on the “I asked to call in a bunch of things The road closure is to enable The three sites are at existing, recently-built estates and those included the three de- a new entrance to be con- Farm, north of Bicknor Road and they’ll all end up on the Sutton velopments on the A274. south of the Sutton Road. Road. structed to a home. The work “The minister said that he could- The issue of housing in the area “From there, they’ll further clog will be carried out by Hague n’t call them in because they are is likely to be one of the major is- up the roads in Willington Street, Construction Ltd. not of strategic importance or a sues at stake for the Maidstone in Langley, Otham and Leeds.”

24 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk Roads and housing | News Get militant, Now angry Shepway to says resident LAST month, we reported how vil- lagers in Leeds are prepared to take action over traffic “get militant” if the authorities drag their heels over traffic issues A PETITION calling for a relief road is to be compiled by Shepway resi- in the village. Borough councillor Gill Fort says dents in a bid to stop its narrow lanes being used as rat-runs by lorries. residents are planning action to Local people have noticed a highlight the problems huge vol- sharp increase in the number of umes of vehicle movements have HGVs, trucks and cars using the on everyday life. area to avoid the clogged Sutton Apart from the daily traffic, vil- Road and Willington Street. lagers are growing increasingly fed With house-building on the in- up with HGVs flouting a lorry ban, crease and plans for 1,300 new speeding, reckless driving, hit-and- homes near Langley likely to go run prangs and aggressive, foul- ahead, they fear there will be even mouthed conduct by some drivers. more pressure on the area. A 900- Cllr Fort said: “There is growing signature petition was gathered be- anger among people here and fore the Shepway south by-election they are threatening to get mili- in favour of a relief road to help tant. I cannot and will not con- Maidstone’s traffic woes. done anything illegal, but I can Now residents in Shepway north understand why he thinks that are to be given the opportunity to way.” put their names to a similar list. Upper Street resident Robert Conservative Cllr Marion Ring Jackson (38) said: “We’re very (pictured), a Shepway resident of Shepway resident Marion Ring says HGV drivers use Shepway as rat run happy living in Leeds but the traf- 30 years and life-long Maidstone “I remember that you could cope with its traffic. Ukip fic is horrendous now. There is resident, says the traffic issues jump on the bus and it would take spokesman and fellow borough meant to be a lorry ban which have become much worse of late. about 15 minutes to get into the councillor Eddie Powell backs pub- The Westmorland Road resident doesn’t get enforced and people centre of Maidstone. lic concerns but questions govern- speed to get through ahead of on- said: “We’re getting loads of lorries “These days, with all the traffic, ment commitment. coming traffic. coming down this way. This estate it takes about 45 minutes. The by- He added: “In the great scheme “It’s dangerous. My car has was built for families; it was never pass or relief road is now critical.” of things, a Leeds-Langley relief built as a major route and certainly Cllr David Burton, the borough road is hardly high up on the gov- been hit four times this year and for the number and size of vehicles council’s head of planning, said ernment’s agenda, is it? nobody stopped. We’ve had we’re seeing cut through here. that a by-pass in the south of the “This has been talked and talked enough and I know that quite a We’ve got to the point now that we town linking to the motorway is about for 20 years and nothing has few people feel the same - not just won’t let go. There has got to be the most “logical piece of infra- happened. Why should something here but in Langley, Otham and some solution. structure” to help the borough happen now?” even Sutton Valence.” Three options for by-pass ‘Let’s get on with relief road’ A LEEDS-Langley relief road op- “I do believe it will happen. For THERE are currently three tion should be chosen sooner the first time, we have the county routes on the table for a relief rather than later and “get on with council, the highways authority road from Langley to the A20 it”, according to the borough coun- and the planning authority all talk- junction. cil’s transport chief. ing about the same thing posi- According to information seen Cllr David Burton, the lead on tively. by Downs Mail, all routes would road and planning matters, is con- “I think we are in a much better start on or near the Penfold fident the estimated £30-50m cost position to see the delivery sooner bridge after the main entrance to of a by-pass can be met through rather than later.” Leeds Castle, and proceed around developer contributions, contrac- To pay for the relief road, devel- the village. tual obligations and central fund- opers must make a “substantial” Option 1 (East): From Penfold ing pots. contribution towards the infra- Hill, the route would skirt along There are currently three options structure as well as government Burberry Lane and into wood- on the table for a south east Maid- money and other “pockets” of land close to Langley and then on stone relief road and currently cash, said Cllr Burton. to or near the Five Wents cross- being discussed by the authorities He added: “It is a big challenge roads. which make up the Joint Trans- but I believe it is achievable. When Option 2 (West): From Penfold portation Board (JTB). we talk about a relief road, it is ex- Hill, the route would veer right All would start in or around the actly that. around Leeds, over Forge Lane Penfold bridge near the entrance to “For instance, the new gyratory and possibly on to Back Street, Leeds Castle and variously emerge system delivers 20% capacity to get emerging at the junction at or near or on the A274 at Langley or Cllr David Barton vehicles through the town but the close to Horseshoes Lane. Five Wents. Street, parts of Shepway, Otham demands continue to grow. There Option 3 (East and west): This In a frank interview with Downs and Leeds is the “most logical are other smaller piecemeal im- route will form an ‘S’ shape, fol- Mail, Cllr Burton said: “My fixed piece of infrastructure”. provements, too. lowing the west route initially view is to pick one of them and get The system across “will just “If you have the new relief road before emerging at the Langley on with it.” about cope” until there is a hiccup, from the south to the motorway, end of Burberry Lane and pick- He acknowledged that with a he said. the effects would be felt as far ing up the end of the east route house-building programme of Cllr Burton said: “Having a by- away as Yalding. All these ingredi- and emerging at or near the Five 18,000 new houses by 2031, a route pass through the south east puts ents working together will get the Wents crossroads. to take traffic out of Willington some resilience into the network. best outcome for Maidstone.”

Maidstone Weald December 2016 25 News downsmail.co.uk Guns stolen MEDALS including the MBE and Official: Maidstone best Star of Burma and six shotguns have been stolen from a house in East Sutton. It was reported that between 9.45am and 3.30pm on Wednesday, in UK for having a baby October 26, a property in Morry MAIDSTONE is the best place in Lane was targeted. A cabinet con- the UK to have a baby, according The key statistics taining the guns is reported to have to a newly-published review.  been taken, along with the medals. Maternity services in mid and Maternal smoking rate at Detective Constable Suzanne west Kent have been rated top out delivery - 10.1% Basford said: “I would like to hear  of nearly 200 NHS similar bodies Neonatal stillbirth/mortality per from anyone who saw anything nationwide. 1,000 births – 4.1 suspicious. I would also encourage  Almost 6,000 of the area’s babies Mother’s experience out of 100 members of the public to contact us are delivered by Maidstone and – 83.6 if they believe they have been of-  Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) Choices in services out of 100 – fered any of these items for sale.” each year. 69.1 “Call us on 01622 604100 quoting  Overall rating – top performing YY/023871/16 or Kent Crimestop- The data has been published as pers on 0800 555111.” part of a transparency drive by health secretary Jeremy Hunt in an The trust offers a range of services Head of Midwifery for the trust, effort to improve Britain’s place in including community midwives, an Jenny Cleary said: “We are de- Scam warning international league tables. obstetric-led, full maternity service lighted that our maternity services MAIDSTONE Borough Council The ratings examine stillbirth and at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, and have been rated so highly by NHS has been forced to issue a warning neo-natal mortality, maternal smok- midwife-run birth centres at Maid- England in a number of areas which after a series of scam calls in the ing at the time of delivery, women’s stone and Crowborough. is testament to the hard work and area. The council’s call centre has experience of maternity services and Baroness Cumberlege, the inde- dedication of the teams.“ received reports from eight people women’s choice. pendent chair of the 2016 National Last month, MTW celebrated five and messages on social media MTW came top for three of the Maternity Review, commissioned years of providing integrated ma- about callers purporting to be from four categories and the average by NHS England, said: “I have been ternity services, from when Tun- the authority, asking if they have score for a woman’s experience of impressed by maternity staff across bridge Wells Hospital and been in traffic accidents. West Kent’s maternity services was Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Maidstone Birth Centre opened. A council spokesman said: nearly 84/100. NHS Trust. In April this year, MTW took over “These calls were not authorised by While 144 clinical commissioning “They are clearly committed to the management of Crowborough MBC. We urge residents not to di- groups (CCGs) need improvement maximising positive outcomes – Birth Centre to provide a stream- vulge any personal details and to and 53 were performing well, just both physical health and mental lined maternity service for women report the incident to KCC Con- one, MTW, was assessed as top per- well-being - for the mother, baby living in the High Weald area of sumer Direct and the police.” forming. and the family as a whole.” north East Sussex.

26 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk Health | News Mental health MENTAL health services in West 999 times ‘worst in town’ Kent are set to improve after a re- view of current activities. AMBULANCE response times in in November 2014. The ambulance The key need is to improve poor the Maidstone area are worse than union GMB has attacked a lack of access and treatment outcomes. De- anywhere else in the South East. investment and staff shortages for mentia diagnosis rates are set to in- South East Coast crews “blue the poor results. crease. light” response to emergency calls Paul Maloney, GMB Southern re- The GP-led West Kent CCG says made it to the scene in the recom- gional secretary, said: “The situa- inequalities must be reduced to en- mended eight minutes in just 67.9% tion is at a critical level when less sure needs are met across all ages. of cases. The figures for the year to than 72% of life or death emer- Care will be integrated, planning August show in London it was gency calls are responded to within people’s physical, mental and so- 68.7% of the time and for the South eight minutes. cial needs through partnership Central Ambulance area, 71.8%. within the time recommended. He said more staff were leaving working across the NHS, public Bottom of the league again in the The target of reaching patients in the service than joining, making the health , voluntary bodies, local au- South East was South East Coast’s most need within eight minutes situation even worse, and added: thorities, housing providers, edu- response time to those suffering a 75% of the time was last hit by “With vacancy levels at over 1,000 cation and youth justice. suspected stroke or with life-threat- crews in our region back in April in the ambulance service, the Gov- One intention is provide access to ening breathing conditions, with a 2015, and patients with less serious, ernment must act if it wants to hit high-quality services close to home 59.9% rate of reaching patients but still life-threatening, conditions response time targets.” ensuring local community services are immediately available. Better carer engagement is Key targets planned with health professionals Review of care for elderly KEY health services in West Kent trained to involve more with carers. THE health services and care to be with complex health needs and are still missing targets and West Prevention and early interven- provided for older people (50- disabilities are more likely to re- Kent CCG is taking action to re- tion will be prioritised, with rapid plus) is being assessed by NHS tain their strength and independ- store performance to “good”. transformation of services for chil- West Kent CCG, which says: “The ence when cared for at home.”  The A&E four-hour target fell dren and young people. growing need arising from the in- Research shows that if care is crease in the older population will not improved outside hospitals 67 below the England average for the require additional services across more acute beds will be needed in first time in August.  Online plans the system, incurring additional hospital within five years. The positive trend in urgently- THE number of patients’ care plans costs. To improve it is important But if services outside hospital referred cancer patients receiving available to health specialists on the right care is provided in the are improved, more people will be treatment in 62 days continues.  line has grown to 6,340 in West most appropriate place, either in cared for in community settings, Focus on dementia in two GP Kent. The rapidly-expanding sys- hospital or in a community set- some in their own homes. practices has identified 34 cases in tem is supported by most GP prac- ting, including patients’ own This could lead to a decrease of one month.  tices and the information is now homes. 60 hospital beds, leading to major The NHS 111 telephone service available to the ambulance service. “Frail, older people and those financial savings overall. continues to improve.

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 29 News downsmail.co.uk Drugs found in home raid Barracks closure ends ADRUG dealer has been sentenced to prison after 15 wraps of heroin were seized from his home in Maid- stone. town’s military links James Bird (36) MAIDSTONE’s Invicta Park Bar- was arrested in racks is to close, ending more than September 2015 two centuries of military history in after Kent Police the county town. searched his The base, off Royal Engineers home in Lesley Road, will close in 2027, it was an- Place. nounced in parliament. Maidstone- Heroin was Army barracks have been in the based found on Bird and county town since 1797, with the Gurkha drugs were also hidden in a number present base home to the Royal En- soldiers on of locations inside the property, in- gineers 36 Engineer Regiment. cluding a freezer where officers also a a tour of It includes two Gurkha sections, duty in found amphetamine. A box was also resulting in a Nepalese community Kabul discovered containing a powder of more than 1,000 in the town. which could be used as a cutting There are currently no plans for the “Yet while the size and structure of fect the wider population and econ- agent. Messages on a mobile phone relocation of the soldiers. the military has changed to meet dif- omy of Maidstone generally. belonging to Bird provided evidence The 41-hectare site, currently army ferent threats, our estate has failed to The borough council listed the site, of deals. However, during police in- accommodation and military build- adapt.” off Royal Engineers Road, in its draft terview he denied any involvement ings, has been the regiment’s head- The decision is expected to be Local Plan for potential develop- in the supply of heroin. quarters since 1959. widely criticised, amid fears about ment of up to 1,300 homes, saying it At Maidstone Crown Court, Bird The decision was announced in the stress and uncertainty for mili- expected the army to leave by 2031. denied possessing heroin with intent the House of Commons by Defence tary families and the effect on Maid- But two years ago, the MoD de- to supply, but he was convicted by a Secretary and Sevenoaks MP Sir stone’s economy. nied any such plans, saying it was jury following a trial. He had previ- Michael Fallon, in his Better Defence Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone categorised as “retained”. ously pleaded guilty to a separate Statement. and the Weald, said it was a worry- However, it later suggested to charge of possessing amphetamine He told MPs that 56 Ministry of ing announcement for the 800 sol- Maidstone Council that the base and was sentenced to two-and-a- Defence sites would close by 2040, diers, their families and dependents, could be deemed surplus to require- half-years in prison. saying: “Our estate is vital but it’s many from the highly respected ments in the long term, leaving it Detective Constable Michelle Mar- also vast, making up almost 2% of Nepalese community. free for housebuilding or alternative shall said: “Please remember to re- the UK’s land mass. She is also concerned it could af- uses. port any suspicious behaviour.” Stones’ match Teenagers get harsh lesson in road safety for tragic fan HUNDREDS of young drivers from Mik Sayer of Kent TEACHERS are to take on a team of Maidstone have witnessed the Police; Denise Collett celebrity players at Maidstone’s Gal- devastating effects of dangerous of SECAmb; Spencer lagher Stadium memory of school- driving from an award-winning Aston; Marion boy Charlie Girling. theatre production illustrating the The idea for the charity game was impact of an accident. Cornick and Alan put forward by 12-year-old Charlie’s The Licence to Kill production Faulkner, Kent Fire classmates at Maplesden Noakes combines film with live and Rescue; and School, where he was well known performances from 999 staff, Carol Collen, of KCC for his love of sport. accident victim Spencer Aston and Road Safety Head Richard Owen said this Marion Cornick, whose daughter week that details were being fi- died in a car crash. It was shown to the busy roads and continue to try have to deal with it or how it impacts nalised for the game on Friday, De- future drivers, aged 16 to 24, at to reduce the number of collisions.” their lives too. It was hard to watch, I cember 2. Mote Park. A pupil from Oakwood Park just wanted to leave. But it was It will be played at the Gallagher Insp Samantha Pearson, of Kent Grammar School in Maidstone, who important to keep watching and Stadium, where Charlie was a regu- Policed, said: “Passing your driving attended the production, said: “The experience the harsh reality.’ lar supporter of Maidstone United test is very exciting but the stories are brutal and make you More than 6,000 students have so FC. consequences of a collision can end realise it could happen to you or far seen the show, with other He said: “We have managed to get that elation very quickly. We want to your family. I didn’t think about the performances during November in agreement from the stadium to prepare new and young drivers for emergency services personnel who Margate and Gravesend. allow a number of Maidstone United players to play against the staff and we have also attracted in- terest from other well-known play- Bill’s Round golf raises £500 for RNLI ers.” A GOLF match in memory of a their chosen charity. The winners of the “two nearest Maplesden Noakes students also Harrietsham fund-raiser has made Mr Butler organised many fund- the pin holes” were Mick Stanley hope to present a shield for sporting another £500 for charity – this time raising events, including the popu- and Paul Keenor and the best lady achievement and create a garden at for the Royal National Lifeboat In- lar Bluebell Walk and started an was Katrina Howard – ladies cap- their Buckland Road school in mem- stitution. appetite for Safari suppers in Har- tain at Chart Hills Golf Club. The ory of Charlie, who died while on a Bill’s “Bonfire” Round attracted rietsham. best team was Alan Fineman, John trip with the 1st Aylesford Scout its largest turnout in seven years, Taking the honours on Novem- Goad, Alan Joynson and David group in Finland. with 30 men and two women tee- ber 4 was David Nickson, from Nickson. Charlie’s family – mum Helene, ing off at Cobtree Manor Park Golf Ashford Golf Club, who chose the Details of next year’s event have dad Les, brother Jack and sister Course at Sandling. RNLI to benefit from the £530 still to be confirmed, but men and Abby – from Ash Close in Aylesford, It was the 39th event since Bill’s raised – boosted by fines picked up women golfers of all standards are have welcomed the school’s activi- Round was launched in 1998 – in by some players for losing the team invited to take part. Email ties to remember Charlie, who died memory of Bill Butler – in which ball, wearing shorts, and teeing off [email protected] or call suddenly on July 24. the winner is allowed to nominate badly on the first hole. 07860-821306 for more information.

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 31 downsmail.co.uk Comment Boroughs come to blows THE gloves are now off as Maidstone MBC requires focus on an alternative trans- Council prepares to fire a mighty blast to Ton- MailMarks port route to draw traffic away from the A20 bridge and Malling Council which aims to and Hermitage Lane, in particular. load much more of its heavyweight residen- DENNIS FOWLE President The council is calling for joint working in- tial development in an area most sensible peo- [email protected] cluding KCC. Expect some very tough, rough ple would consider part of Maidstone, not talks. There is feeling of abuse around. Tonbridge. Who are the key sufferers? Not the good I have frequently commented before that Fewer hospital beds? folk of Tonbridge, but Maidstone residents places like Aylesford, Coldharbour, Her- who see this vital lane as the main route to the A CASE is being prepared for a huge re- mitage Lane, Aylesford, Larkfield, Ditton M20 and access road to Maidstone Hospital. duction in hospital beds in Maidstone and (even East and West Malling) should never be It really is a nonsense. They have had enough Tunbridge Wells hospitals. part of Tonbridge. and are rightly causing a lot of noise. The Maidstone trend was started in the They are right on our doorstep and resi- Already, most believe there is too much res- times of notorious hospitals’ chief executive dents look so much more to the county town idential development in and around the lane. Rose Gibb – and now the fund-holding GP- than to a much more distant Tonbridge. Now Tonbridge Council wishes to add heav- led NHS West Kent Clinical Group is report- There is a powerful case for a boundary ily to it in its own Local Plan. ing how a further cut would make sense. change, likely to win strong support from In a draft letter to Tonbridge, Maidstone The group is under great pressure to save Maidstone, but little from a diminished Ton- says: “Mitigating transport impacts on al- money and its plans look at big changes. bridge. ready-busy routes in to Maidstone will be Bed-blocking by patients who really need There has been minimal damage to Maid- seen as vital – including the A20, Hermitage social care is a huge problem and the group stone in the past – but times are changing. Lane and the A26, already subject to a signif- looks at changes which will ensure much Faced with the same problem as Maidstone in icant increase in traffic following develop- greater care in the community for all of us. having to build many thousands of new ments at Kings Hill.” This will involve a much stronger physical houses to meet government’s insatiable de- Maidstone also draws attention to signifi- and financial contribution from social wel- mands, Tonbridge looks increasingly at its far cant residential and employment develop- fare. Maidstone end for land. ment in South Aylesford and Ditton, already The group says that if nothing is done costs The crunch has come in Hermitage Lane, subject to heavy congestion and air pollution, will just escalate with another 67 acute hospi- . The new business development at which would worsen. tal beds needed in five years and 139 in 10 the junction with the A20 is in Tonbridge bor- The borough council says the current pro- years. ough and the traffic changes and new traffic posals would allow settlements to coalesce But, if the changes are made, it sees a need lights are causing the most appalling and dan- with Maidstone – so provision of open space for 60 less beds. The overall financial savings gerous problems. would be a priority. are big. So watch this space.

Village has three schools This area is far from that. Traffic is not admire her tenacity and determination to restricted at all and the road is used by achieve the goal of reduced traffic flow MAY I refer you to the latest edition of the buses, lorries and cars to gain access to the along this extremely busy thoroughfare. Downs Mail (East edition, November). On vast housing estate beyond the shops. Car However, I feel that I must take issue page four, you printed an article headed parking is also available to shoppers with Jenny regarding her aribution of “Hurry Up on second school”. directly outside the shops This area is now comments made by councillor Eddie Could I respectfully point out that very dangerous with adults and children Powell of UKIP regarding the provision of Bearsted already has three primary schools crossing this busy road to use the shops. this relief road, as patronising and – Thurnham Infants School, Roseacre They also have to negotiate the parked cars flippant. Junior School (which I accept could be that are constantly reversing etc.. Eddie, like many of us, believes that the treated as one) and Madginford Primary Today there are traffic lights directly on saturation level of housing being built School. This is the second time to my Longshaw Road outside the shops. Why along the A274 around Bicknor Farm will knowledge that you have referred to this would this be necessary if the area was be deleterious to the area. Not only is this maer as if Madginford is not part of pedestrianised? I think that a lile poetic housing being built on previously Bearsted. licence has been used by the developers. agricultural land, it will be productive of When reporting on the need for further Jeanne Richards, via email hugely increased levels of traffic. Such primary education provision in the traffic will most likely find its way either Bearsted area, could you please refer to it Shops are on a busy road through the town centre or down by saying something like “additional” or Willington Street. I WISH to inform you that the new-build at “further” and not reinforce the outdated Jenny rightly states that the campaign Parkwood is not pedestrianised. stereotype that Bearsted only exists north for this relief road should transcend The shops are surrounded by Wallis of the A20? political affinities. Indeed, it is my personal Avenue, Longshaw Road, Livingstone Perhaps our local councillors and our feeling that anything to do with important Walk and Cobb Way. The main car parking local MP should be asked to also correct local issues should be free from party is on Longshaw Road, which is possibly their views or misunderstandings on this politics. the busiest road in Parkwood as it leads on maer. Eddie works tirelessly for the people of to Bicknor Road which has a school , a Charles Tanswell, governor, Madginford Maidstone south ward, assisting residents church, four assembly halls, a crèche, a Primary School with problems and difficulties that can playing field, and playground. occur when everyday life meets The car park is laid out either side of officialdom. Many people find this Road is not pedestrianised Longshaw Road facing the shops, causing interface to be daunting and, sometimes, I READ with some surprise the article in much inconvenience to users as cars are almost insurmountable. November’s Downs Mail regarding new constantly reversing in or out. Community spirit seems to have premises in Park Wood. Elizabeth McCashin, via email declined over recent years. People who These shops, although very smart, are would once have had no hesitation in not in a pedestrianised area. Most of the seeking counsel and help from neighbours, shops are on either side of Longshaw Road Let’s all support the cause now find that there is a good chance that which is just that – a road. The definition of JENNY Suon has been a long time they hardly see their neighbours, let alone pedestrianised in the Oxford dictionary campaigner for a relief road to reduce feel able to ask them for help or advice. I says and I quote ”accessible only to through traffic along Willington Street to know Eddie has also supported local pedestrians”. the benefit of long-suffering residents. I residents with a campaign of their own. It

32 Maidstone Weald December 2016 downsmail.co.uk has been said that his interest and support Your correspondent seems to want it Lights display for hospice Comment has been greatly appreciated. both ways: he describes the aendees as We should all support Jenny Suon in COME along to this festive fundraising contributing nothing to the local economy, her praiseworthy endeavours. This issue is event and enjoy a musical Christmas light but then accuses the borough council of far too important to be reduced to political display in aid of Heart of Kent Hospice. using the park as “a cash cow”. Every day between December 2 and wrangling. This is leaving aside his idea that none January 2, 39 Castle Road, Allington, Kent Gillian Roberts, Valentine Road, of the people aending these events might ME16 0PP will be lit up from 5pm to 9pm Maidstone be resident taxpayers of the county with shows taking place every half hour. themselves – something I am fairly sure is Relief road a long way off Drive up before the show starts and tune your radio to 106.1FM – it’s as simple as not the case. THERE has been much recent coverage that. By all means complain about the noise, about a so-called relief road between the This is a free event but we are asking all Sir – I might have been tempted to go on A20 and the A274 in your publication and those who come along to make a donation holiday myself that weekend – but as you others. If there are, as you report, three either by texting LIGH77 TO 70070 or by say yourself, the land was sold by options - why on earth do we not see the visiting justgiving.com/fundraising/ Viscount Bearsted “for the enjoyment of detail of them? LightingUpAllington the people of Maidstone” – and not just The problem, I suspect, is there is no Dorothy Gorman, via email the lucky few who actually live in the money to build it without carpeting the park. borough with yet more houses. S Moore, Aylesford Or a cynical view would be that the Joint Retail park traffic a disaster Transportation Board’s vague plan is just that, designed to fob everyone off until I READ with uer dismay in the Downs Site chance for university after the county council election next year Mail (No 235, page 4) that the traffic lights and the whole uncomfortable, installed for the recently-opened retail IT IS sad news, hearing of the closure of troublesome issue will die a death for park at the north end of Hermitage Lane Invicta Barracks - but what a wonderful another two decades. are not synchronised with those at its opportunity it gives the town. Don’t be fooled, folks, this relief road junction with the A20. No, not to build yet more houses, but to isn’t going to happen. But the time and It’s no wonder that, during the rush offer the site as a university campus. place to express your frustration is in the hour, this already congested junction now Maidstone missed this opportunity polling booth next May and every election has almost stationary traffic spreading when Senacre School closed and was after it. Voter power is all the rage! ever further in all directions and will come replaced by a housing estate. Due to the H Warren, via email under increasing pressure with every new vast number of houses being built along house that is built along Hermitage Lane. the Suon Road KCC will now be looking What were those responsible for to build another secondary school in that Rail service is appalling planning this installation thinking of, if area. ever they were thinking at all? MAIDSTONE’S Labour councillors are There is no forward planning in the It appears to my unsophisticated mind campaigning with party colleagues in town. Maidstone must be one of the few that this is a major oversight and that Kent, Surrey and Sussex to get Govia, county towns in the country without a heads should roll. which owns Southeastern, Southern and university and it would do much to raise Let’s not forget, Hermitage Lane Thameslink stripped of their rail franchise. its status. provides a major arterial route to On November 4, three out of four peak Like many young people who go away Maidstone Hospital. Will it take a time trains on the St Pancras line were to university, my daughters now live catastrophic accident to make those cancelled. Passengers travelling home on away. With a university in the town, it responsible realise what a mess they’ve Tuesday and Wednesday evenings that caused before they put it right? would encourage young people to look in week faced having to stand. The horrors of Hermitage Lane are Maidstone for work when they leave, as There are no facilities at Maidstone West well as giving the town the benefit of their to sit in a heated waiting room, despite becoming all the more apparent with very new brick that is laid on any one of the fresh and exciting new thoughts and ideas. being called for over the last few years. Malcolm Luxton, Borden, Kent This level of service is appalling. building sites there. The seemingly It is not infrequent that high speed trains uncontrolled development is a mistake in are delayed or cancelled. We pay £44 the making and could be stopped if those Stadium is a winner return to use a poor service which takes at responsible look beyond their wallets and best 51 minutes to cover 40 miles, and pay think again. I WENT a football match for the first time a premium fare. Peter Farr, Wateringbury. in years when the Stones took on Rochdale Govia should have these services taken in the FA Cup at the Gallagher Stadium. away and returned to public ownership. What a fantastic venue and club! Our services in Kent and Sussex are a Park is not just for residents Friendly staff, decent food, clean toilets national scandal. I WRITE further to your recently and a reasonable entry fee. Cllrs Paul Harper and Keith Adkinson, published leer of complaint regarding the I’ll be back. Maidstone Labour Party festival held in Mote Park. Davy Jackson, via email

The five editions of the Downs Mail are delivered to 90% of households in the Maidstone and Malling area, reaching over 190, 000 readers every month. Maidstone North Maidstone South Maidstone East Maidstone Weald Malling Current and archived editions are also free to read online at www.downsmail.co.uk Contact our teams…. Editorial Sales Accounts Dept. Editor: Simon Finlay Sales Manager: Bill Brett [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 630330 ext 229 01622 734735 01622 630330 ext. 221 Mail Publications Ltd Assistant Editor: Diane Nicholls Forge House Advertising Sales Enquiry: [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park 01622 630330 ext. 232 01622 630330 option 1 Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT

Maidstone Weald December 2016 33 Christmas Wishes

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 35 downsmail.co.uk Sue Poen school. He then became a horticultural Within a few days, thousands of pounds Obituaries representative for Boots Farm Sales before had been raised via crowd-funding for his SUSAN Lyn Poen (67) lived in Aylesford moving to Murphy’s the chemical company. funeral expenses and to provide a trust fund village for 35 years, moving there with His final job before retiring was as a sales for his six-year-old son. husband Barrie and brought up daughters representative for Suons (Produce The Ironworks Gym posted on Facebook: Karen and Julia. Packaging) in Marden. “Jay was truly one of the good guys, a Born Susan Cole in Luton, Medway, Sue Dudley was married twice. His first hugely likeable, charming, funny and kind was educated in the marriage produced children Sarah and man who genuinely enriched my, and many Medway area and Simon. In 1983, he married Ida, and became others’ lives. He will be sorely missed. RIP began taking stepfather to Caroline and Richard. brother. X” His wife Hannah said: “He was administration jobs. Caroline said: “My stepfather and mother my everything and then some.” She was working for were not interested in a quiet retirement. Friend Dave Woodger said: “He was the Seeboard when she They formed Ida Fermor Design to market best-dressed man in the room and could just gave up work to her watercolour paintings. Dudley managed throw something on and look good.” become a mother. Sue the business side whilst Ida produced the Jay leaves his wife and sons. raised her family as paintings. These were reproduced on Barrie worked for the postcards and greetings cards. Kent Messenger “He also became interested in living Carol Oliver Group but went back to work as her children history and when interest in the 1940s grew up. Her local jobs included work as a THE death has been announced of Carol became topical, Dudley and my mother Oliver (79). dinner lady at St Peter’s Primary School and enjoyed dressing up in period military administration work for Safeway (now Carol lived in Maidstone until she moved uniforms and re-enacting the war years. to Whitstable 14 years ago. She died in the Waitrose) in Aylesford. Dudley was a true gentleman, a gentle man Daughter Karen said: “Mum was very Pilgrims Hospice, Canterbury, and her and a true countryman at heart.” funeral service took place at Barham happy at home and loved poering. She had Dudley leaves his wife Ida, his children a talent for gardening and cooking and was crematorium. and step-children, step-granddaughter Lucy Carol leaves her children Duncan and very devoted to her family. She was a and step-great grandson James. member of the village book club. Sarah and grandchildren Douglas, Greg, “Her final bale with illness involved a Oliver, Joseph and George. series of life-changing operations but she Philip Cockburn managed to stay strong and positive.” Sue – who was widowed in 2013 – leaves THE death of Wateringbury’s Philip Cec Harris her daughters and grandchildren Eleanor, Cockburn (84) has drawn a range of tributes. CECIL “Cec” Harris (90) lived locally almost Thomas and Jacob. Philip was a village resident for many all of his life, initially in Marden and, for years and long-time servant of the local most of his life, in Coxheath. parish council, holding the post of chairman After starting work locally and Eileen Colle for several years. undertaking war service at the very end of Originally from the north east of England, EILEEN Mary Colle (96) lived in Surrey hostilities in Italy and Egypt, Cec returned to a number of Philip’s longest standing friends spend most of his working life as an Road, Shepway, for over 65 years and before could recall the days when his accent from that near Frienden. agricultural welder with Drake and Fletcher. that area was very pronounced. He briefly moved away from his employer in Born Eileen Martin near Trowbridge in Philip completed his national service in the Wiltshire, she moved to Smallhythe and as a the mid-1970s, seing up with a partner as RAF, undertaking pilot training and makers of air-conditioning systems for young Girl Guide had visited Smallhythe remaining part of the auxiliary air force at Place for tea where she met the owner, commercial buildings, but decided to return the end of this period. to Drake’s where he ended his working life. actress Ellen Terry. His professional career took him to the Eileen was married for almost 50 years to Cec was married to Maureen for more highest levels of banking. Having joined than 50 years. She worked in a clerical Roger Colle and was mother to Alan and Barclays Bank in 1948, he remained within Jacqueline. She worked at the Granada capacity for HMP Maidstone. the bank for forty years. His work took in a Her cousin David Elms said: “Cec was a Cinema at the boom of Gabriel’s Hill, on range of assignments including time spent in local farms and for many years in the down-to-earth man who could socialise Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa. easily with others. He might seem quiet at canteen of Oxford Road Primary School in Philip’s financial career allowed him to hold Maidstone. first, but once you got to know him he was many leers after his name and his later easy to get on with. He was a long-time Alan Colle said: “My mother was the working years included a number of non- kind of lovable person who is liked by regular at the Bird in Hand pub in Coxheath, executive positions in financial and property and when that shut he would travel further everyone. She loved to go dancing with my concerns. father. My mother lived independently for afield. Philip was married to Sue and had one “He was a founder member of the Bird in many years after he died and was a loving son, one daughter and a step-son. He leaves mother and grandmother.” Hand Golf Society and had played a number his wife, children, grandchildren and great- of local courses. He also played darts for the Eileen, who was widowed about 20 years grandchildren. ago, leaves her children, grandchildren pub and competed in many local open Martin, Carl and Karen and great- competitions, earning an impressive grandchildren Luke, Bethany, Nicole and Jay Chandler collection of trophies. Isabel. “When Maureen suffered a stroke he cared THE sudden death of Jay Chandler (40) for her until her death six years ago.” made local headlines. Cec leaves his many local friends. Dudley Fermor The quantity surveyor from Boughton Monchelsea died suddenly, leaving his wife MARDEN’S Dudley Beversham Fermor (80) Hannah and sons was born locally and lived in the area for Jacob (19) and Charlie The Stone Shop almost all of his life. (six). Friends, family Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, In 1947, Dudley obtained the Lambe and Jay’s colleagues lettered and installed anywhere. scholarship to Suon Valence School. He from work at Inscriptions added to existing memorials showed great promise as a cricketer and later Galliford Try and the Renovations and memorial went on to play for Harrietsham. Dudley gyms he was known cleaning completed National Service between 1954 to aend including and 1956. Park Wood’s The Stone Shop Like several other Fermor sons of that Ironworks Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. generation, Dudley worked with his father at Gymnasium were 01622 726633 Eastwood Farm, Ulcombe, when he left quick to pay tribute on social media.

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

36 Maidstone Weald December 2016 CollectionPrompt

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Maidstone Weald December 2016 37 News | Remembrance Sunday downsmail.co.uk

Dignitaries, including MP Helen Grant, wait for their turn to place wreaths at the war memorial in Maidstone Remembering our fallen heroes

THOUSANDS of Maidstone resi- There was a poignant moment dents turned out in November when double-amputee Gurkha sunshine to remember the fallen Vinod Budhathoki (31), stepped of past and present conflicts. forward to lay his tribute. The streets were lined with peo- Wearing prosthetic limbs, the ple, some waving union flags, as married father of two (pictured the parade made its way across the right) needed the steadying shoul- bridge to the war memorial. der of another former Gurkha as he Serving soldiers, veterans, mem- laid his wreath. bers of the Gurkha regiment, the The rifleman lost both his legs Scout movement, Air Training when an improvised explosive de- Corps and St John Ambulance were vice went off in Afghanistan in among those taking part. 2010. He lives in Allington with Dignitaries, including Maidstone wife Samita and two daughters. and Weald MP Helen Grant and The assembled crowd observed Mayor Derek Butler, laid wreaths perfectly a two-minute silence at during the solemn ceremony on 11am, during a Service of Remem- The Broadway. brance at the war memorial.

Clockwise from above left: a member of the Salvation Army Band; crowds pay their respects; a veteran shields his eyes from the autumn sunshine and members of the Air Training Corps are among those to lower their flags at the memorial

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due to there not being any road vergeo. Stanley Farms Millwood had indicated aihCouncils Parish Coxheath Fire A fire in Gordon Court and problems agreement that the street names for the Local plan The chairman of the the parish with fire services regarding no road name development would be wild flowers. council had made representations to the and access was reported. Fingerpost The clerk would contact Kent independent examiner of the Maidstone Bushes A resident said overgrown bushes in Highways to repair the barrier at Howland Local Plan during a session on housing Brooks Field were affecting light in their Road junction before any work could be development in larger villages. property. This would be discussed by the undertaken on the fingerpost and to ask Picnic tables The parish council was to environment commiee. whether Kent Highways would agree to seek the views of residents on the possible Pavilion project The chairman thanked all erect temporary barriers or signage for siting of picnic tables on the Huntington councillors who took part in the public open both the Howland Road and High Street Road village green and a lier bin on the day. Maers raised on the plans were in junction posts. area of open space in Hanover Road. some cases vehemently challenged. It was Kent Men of Trees Unfortunately, Marden Dangerous parking The parish council was agreed to withdraw the planning application was not judged to be a winning village this to take up the question of dangerous and this decision was ratified. Terms of year. parking near the school with the reference would be prepared for a new Christmas A discussion took place whether headteacher, following complaints by commiee to take the project forward. to hold the Christmas drinks in a different residents. Resignations Cllr Irene Songhurst was location after the December parish council Christmas tree Refurbishment of the stepping down from the council. She was meeting. However, it was agreed to keep it electrical inspection pit next to Holy thanked for her sterling work and for taking as previous years and hold it at The Allens. Trinity Church had taken place to improve on the challenging role of chairman to the New mower The new mower needed to be the connections for the Christmas tree. LPC McAlpine Trust. Cllr Gordon Bernard DVLA registered to take to the road. A Lier pick The possibility of recruiting also confirmed that he would be resigning payment of £55 was agreed. A buyer had volunteers to pick lier around the village from the parish council on March 31, 2017, come forward for the old mower and it was on a regular basis would be discussed. as he would be moving out of the parish. agreed to accept £700. Dog waste Maidstone Council was The need to recruit new councillors and try a Amenities commiee Changing rooms embarking on a programme of replacing new approach was discussed. had been vandalised again but the CCTV some dog waste bins with multi-purpose Fete The fete had made more money than in was due to be installed the following week bins in the same locations. previous years and there had been good and the repairs would be done after this. Lier bin The parish council would replace feedback from the public. The dog show was Tree work at the playing field would be the lier bin in the brick bus shelter in very popular. However, there was done next month. Cemetery fees and rules Heath Road. uncertainty whether the events commiee and regulations had been revised and Cllr would continue in view of the lack of people Newton would reproduce them into a available to organise further events. booklet. The roof repairs to the toilets had Langley been done. Community warden Dawn Riach Brown Buses A resident had asked if the parish said she had been involved with welfare Marden council could put pressure on Nu-Venture/ KCC for additional bus services to the checks and had helped with the issuance of Police briefing Two crimes had been village. Councillors noted the concerns and posters regarding fly-tipping problems in reported since the last meeting – both if the opportunity arose for extra services Grasslands. criminal damage. A CCTV camera had they would discuss in more detail. Police report Five crimes had been been installed in the Maynards. reported in the month before the meeting. Warden’s report Community warden Mira Community Rehabilitation A leer had Martin was due to aend a meeting about been receivedfrom the Kent, Surrey and youth services and wanted to push for Nelestead Sussex Community Rehabilitation more outreach workers in the village. KGV field Cllr Anita Van Hensbergen said programme offering help in providing help Highways Details of the proposal for speed that the King George V Field looked nice. with grounds maintenance and lier- restrictions in Chainhurst had been passed Three councillors had met Mr Smith picking etc. It was decided to contact them on to residents. Two members of the public regarding the football goals and the to follow this up. said that residents were pleased that continuing problem of footballs going into Play area The monthly inspection report something was being done, but it was felt his garden. One option was to move the from Maidstone Borough Council was that some of the problem areas were at goals. Cllr Van Hensbergen proposed that noted, with the air skier being marked for either end of the hamlet and therefore not the parish council meet Mr Smith halfway urgent aention. The clerk had arranged included in the proposal. Vehicles would with the cost of moving the goals but this for repair by Fresh Air Fitness at their speed up again once out of the limit was not seconded. It was resolved to earliest opportunity. therefore the speeding issue would be discuss this again in the next financial year. Football posts The football club would be exacerbated on this stretch. There were a Highways The clerk had received three removing the new posts when not in use lot of dog walkers, residents, farm traffic quotes for the removal of the trees along but had agreed to erect one of the old posts and additional traffic from the barn the Maidstone Road. These quotes varied in another part of the playing field for conversions at Reed Court Farm and and not all options were the same. The general public use. ideally would like to see the proposed clerk was asked to seek the quotes again, restriction moved to between the requesting them all to quote for the same Chainhurst sign and 6 Reed Court Farm thing which would be pollarding the ash Loose Coage. Councillors agreed to support the tree and maple tree. Ducks Community warden Liz Lova changes but expressed concern over the Parking Cllr Watson spoke on parking reported on the killing of ducks at Brooks enforcement. The clerk was asked to problems in Bishops Close. A meeting had Field pond and that the people using respond to Kent Highways recommending been arranged with Maidstone Council but catapults were unfortunately not traced. She the amendment on the grounds of the KCC had not been forthcoming. It was also mentioned that installing CCTV may be larger density of properties to the north, agreed to approach KCC Cllr Paulina a problem due to there being no street being within the village sign, properties Stockell. lighting. Borough Cllr Sue Grigg spoke were on both sides of Hunton Road in this Stiles Cllr Jackie Benne had spoken with about the incident and also about stones location and the envisaged danger of the public rights of way office about the being thrown at pigeons. She had pursued speeding traffic on the brow of the hill. If possible replacement of the stiles on the the possibility of installing CCTV though this went ahead, residents would be Greensand Way. She was told that stiles KCC and Maidstone Council. It was encouraged to train up for Speedwatch. would only be replaced if they were understood that Loose Amenities Cockpit Following a phone conversation damaged. Association supported the idea and would between Helen Grant MP and William help with funding. A resident was happy to Cornall (MBC), a leer had been sent to the have a camera on his house and would pay parish council stating that the Cockpit play Staplehurst up to to 50% of the cost. area would remain in place in the medium Bell Lane hedge A proposal to seek Busbridge Road The erosion of the road was term. MBC would also fund remedial work quotations for the cuing of a hedge at Bell discussed and the maer of reflective of £2,500. The clerk was asked to write to Lane was discussed. Cllr Peter Spearink bollards which had fallen down the bank thank Mrs Grant and MBC. said he would like to see the cuing of the

46 Maidstone Weald December 2016 Parish Councils Crime reports 47 mail.co.uk downs +VAT December 2016 , damaging and a blue and A leer had Deanne It was resolved to A report said the Coxheath Coxheath A meeting was to be ALARMS & SECURITY LTD There was a brief discussion Maidstone Weald Maidstone Weald There were two reported Following comments at the Cllr Shellina Prendergast A resident raised the issue of Watch The pavilion alarm had now been CALL 01622 880751 ALARMS FROM £495 A vehicle was driven across several gar- SECURE YOUR HOME SECURE YOUR warden continued to carry ourvisits welfare and had reported morethe flytipping in Road area. Alarm serviced and new key fobsready had for been use. coded Ditch clearance Ulcombe Speeding speeding along the Lenham RoadFour near Wents and the damageproperty caused when to accidents happen. Police report crimes in the month beforeCommunity the warden meeting. arranged with Kent Highways toditch discuss clearance at Neverend Farm. Community rehabilitation been received from Kent, SurreySussex and Rehabilitation Company offering their services with village projects.agreed It to was contact them towork discuss required cleaning on the pavilionpicking. and lier Tree preservation orders Cunningham of the Landscape TeamMaidstone at Borough Council had confirmed that whilst the sites meritedwere orders not they classed as highcould priority, be but reviewed this in thesignificant event disturbance/felling of being any witnessed. Recreation play area accept the quote from Treefor Cycle the Tree annual Care tree healthUlcombe and Hill safety audit. regarding the re-opening of anentrance old way on to UlcombeHighways Hill. confirmed Kent that no permission was required unless the gatewayextended. was Flytipping reported on a positive meetingborough with council the and Highways England regarding flytipping and general rubbish accumulation in the Chegworth Roadwith area a number of actionagreed. points being playing field and allotments andBowhalls the area including the allotmentsFields as in Trust. Brandys Bay Neighbour Plan meeting the clerkasked had that the road namedrenamed Hopfield Hop be Gardens. Huntington Road, fencing and plants. grey Alpha Halfordstolen. mountain bike was dens in Park Way, Boughton It was resolved Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police . . Cllr Silkin . A new pool table had Coxheath There was a discussion PCSO Gardner’s report The clerk had contacted , was broken into and tools Cllr Riordan said the study Chart Sutton , and later recovered in the The clerk had found a Cllr Buller said she would speak The chairman reported the death East Farleigh Linton An outbuilding on a farm in Loddington A Toro ride-on mower was stolen from a A shed was broken into at a home in Ket- A vehicle was broken into in Plough A window was smashed at a home in A shed was broken into at a property in Neighbourhood Working to reduce crime. Suon Valence Sad news of John Partridge MBE and gave a short resume of his work withLegion the – Royal a British minute’s silenceWarden’s followed. report been bought for the youthstill club, looking who for were funding. Phone boxes Community Heartbeat Trust and persuaded them to remove bothboxes telephones free of charge. BTgrant had to given do them this. a Handyman handyman who was willing toparish work council. for It the was resolvedhim to as employ and when neededThe for clerk £10 would per contact hour. himinsurance. and check Neighbourhood planning to approve the registration ofMemorial the playing War fields, the Harbour had been eased. The Headcornparking Road survey had been issuedresidents to in the vicinity ofof the the western road. end Merit award group had proposed that awished sponsor to who remain anonymous wouldan fund award for community serviceStaplehurst in over the next threeyears. to The four award would typicallya comprise certificate, an engraved itemvoucher. and It a was agreed thatshould the be scheme launched with analready award identified to deserving an individual. Tree walk to two residents who tookabout part the in role the of walk assistantNeighbourhood tree plan warden. commented on the 92.56% yesreferendum. vote He in said the that askingto residents deliver the leaflets haduseful been exercise. a The very Neighourhood Plan steering group would be stoodVillage down. centre about the possible installation ofloop. a The hearing management commiee had obtained a quote and councillors recommended that other quotes were obtained for comparison. PCSO report showed three criminal damage incidents; one theft; two thefts fromtheft vehicles of and a one vehicle. Lane, Westerhill Road, were stolen. Wents Road, tle Lane, and a mobile phone was taken. garden in Brishingroad. It is Lane, believedbeen the disturbed. offender may have Monchelsea . . . Chart Sutton , was broken into , but nothing was , but later recovered . damaged at an out- . It was proposed to hold The council was advised The clerk said there had Subjects raised were: The clerk and Cllr Spearink Boughton Monchelsea There was an invitation to Chart Sutton Coxheath Eight mixed use bins were being , was broken into and an iPod was Chart Sutton A window was broken at a home in Bot- Parts were removed from a vehicle in A small trailer was stolen from a driveway A vehicle parked in Wierton Road, A vehicle parked in Duke of York Way, A blue ATX mountain bike was stolen A home was broken into inA field Chart gate Hill was damaged in Church Hill, tlescrew Hill, Amber Lane, Boughton Monchelsea A PADLOCK was building in Amber Lane, hedge re-introduced as overgrowth was causing problems on the narrowBuller lane. and Cllrs Silkin warned thatlane part was of unadopted the and maintenancethe was responsibility of the owners.there However was merit in findinginforming out owners. the It cost was and agreedquotes to without seek commitment. Dog bins installed to replace nine withdrawnbins. dog Maidstone Council had confirmed that there was a smallrequirements budget of to new cover developments. the It would consider a request forLane bins and in The Bell Bartons onceprogramme the was current complete. The parish office had questioned the brevityconsultation of period. the The clerk said following a representation from ahe resident had asked MBC toinstallation investigate of the a bin atBower the Walk northern rather end than of outsideField. Surrenden MBC budget comment in public consultation, whichbeen had the subject of anRiordan MBC volunteered roadshow. to Cllr draw upresponse a on behalf of theParish parish surgery council. Sainsbury’s petrol station site; Headcorn Road parking; High Street landLile next Loddenden; to continuing closure of NatWest branch; the Neighbourhood Plan referendum; Headcorn Road planning applications and crossroads and the Jubilee taken. in Park Way, nearby. Coxheath taken. from a garage atBoughton a Monchelsea house in The Quarries, Boughton Monchelsea Field. Play scheme 2017 a summer play scheme inagreed 2017. in Councillors principle and askedinvestigate Cllr options. Buller to South East Water of a new water mainPagehurst installation Road, in Marden Road andRoad. Oliver Council vacancy been no request for anstatutory election period, during during the which thearising vacancy from the death ofbeen Cllr published. Butcher The had parish counciltherefore could co-opt a new member. Clerk’s report had met contractors at Belldiscuss Lane drainage pond work to and requestedquote. a The caretaker would bereplacement fiing drain a cover at Surrenden Field. A new strike platethe had pavilion been door filled lock to and the door itself Road, OUR REPUTATION SPEAKS FOR ITSELF windows : doors : conservatories

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