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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling Christmas 2015 No. 225

News Drinking ban plans to Seasonal donations THE Salvation Army has invited members of the public to give gifts for its Christmas  ‘clean up town centre’ present appeal. 6 A NEW order making it illegal to drink in the street, beg or sleep rough Air may take flight could be introduced to “clean up” Maidstone town centre. KENT Air Ambulance is looking to move away from its base  Maidstone Council says the Pub- crime and ASB data provided by the help and support in my book.” in Marden. 8 lic Spaces Protection Order, which police and would extend from the He said the council had failed could be introduced as early as May, town centre along the river to homeless people in Maidstone, would help to cut crime and anti-so- Ringlestone, out to the Vinters Park where there are now seven times Tax office to leave cial behaviour (ASB) in urban Maid- estate, to Rock Road towards Penen- more than in 2010, adding: “The HM Revenue and Customs is clos- stone, where levels of ASB are the den Heath, across to Mote Park, and council needs to focus its energy on ing its Maidstone office,  fifth highest in the county. Waterloo Street and Campbell Road. providing shelter and support for which employs 200. 10 The order would include further Maidstone Green Party cam- homeless people.” measures to deter unauthorised col- paigner Stuart Jeffery said the plan A map of the proposed control lecting of money on the street, the to use the order to “criminalise the area can be viewed at www.maid- School go-ahead use of “legal highs” and rough sleep- homeless” was appalling. stone.gov.uk/consultations, where PUPIL numbers are being halved ing on the street. Drinking alcohol in He said: “Homeless people need you can also have your say. at Jubilee Primary School  public spaces, not including licensed support to get off the streets, support The consultation runs until Janu- in Gatland House, Fant. 11 premises, would also be prohibited that will often include help with ary 25, after which the results will be where it affects the quality of life for other issues rather than just finding considered by Maidstone Council’s visitors and residents. a place to live. Criminalising them communities, housing and environ- Separate the shows The proposed order is based on through a PSPO is the opposite of ment Committee. MAIDSTONE Council is taking steps to avoid event  Why Annette is a star £785 a day for clashes in 2016. 14 A WOMAN who set up a mediation serv- town planner Shopping chaos ice to help residents settle disputes is to MAIDSTONE Council’s town cen- A LOCAL MP is attempting to receive a lifetime achievement award. tre troubleshooter Paul Spooner is address traffic issues at 16 Annette Hinton has been chosen by costing taxpayers £785 a day. Quarry Wood. the Celebrate Maidstone team to By the time his six-month con- receive the 2016 award at the Stars of tract as interim director of regener- Comment 28-2946-47 Maidstone award ceremony in March ation ends on February 23, 2016, 2016. more than £80,000 of public money Obituaries 32-33 For more than 25 years, Annette has will have been spent on Mr championed free access to mediation Spooner, according to the council’s Parish Councils 46 services for people in Maidstone, setting response to a Downs Mail Freedom up Maidstone Mediation in 1989 to of Information request. SCHOOL-RUN parking caused help settle disputes between residents, Mr Spooner, who replaced Zena fury in Barming; a Speed Watch and to facilitate restorative justice for Cooke in August, works four days scheme might be set up in Loose. victims of crime. a week so his services are costing  Annette said: “There was no office, no the annual equivalent of £163,280 – Crime Reports 46 training manual, no template for doing exceeding that of chief executive A LIT firework was thrown into mediation and no money – just the Alison Broom, who earns up to the doorway of a home in concept of using a neutral third party to £115,000 a year. Wheeler Street. help people resolve conflicts. I  Town planner Mr Spooner has had six volunteers and worked 4 worked on projects in Manchester, Birmingham and Portsmouth. In 2013 he was Croydon Council’s in- Road doubt terim executive director of plan- IT could be at least 15 years be- ning and environment, costing the fore Maidstone gets its long- equivalent of £242,666 a year in awaited south-east link road. wages and agency costs. Maidstone Council’s draft in- In Maidstone, Mr Spooner re- tegrated transport strategy says ceives £590 a day with the remain- the Leeds-Langley bypass may ing £195 going to an agency, who only be deliverable after 2031. will have pocketed more Full story – page 34 than £20,000 by the time he 22 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Everything in 10% OFF the showroom Hurry great savings for a limited time only

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2 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Free hall for your event Transport firm’s £1,000 COMMUNITY organisations can receive a boost from Maidstone Council in conjunction with Maid- stone Leisure Trust by applying for gift boosts young team free use of Mote Hall at Maidstone Leisure Centre. AN AYLESFORD haulage com- Each year, five free lets are avail- pany has given a group of Maid- able for events run by community stone youngsters a leg up on the organisations in the borough, ladder to sporting success. which must be sporting, cultural or Castledene Transport, based at unlikely to proceed without a free Millhall in Aylesford, gave £1,000 let, and non-fundraising. to the Maidstone United Rangers Preference is given to activities U7s, allowing them to buy not only that support young people. home and away strips, but also Successful applicants last year in- footballs, tracksuits, cones, a first cluded the Heart of Kent Hospice aid kit and all the other bits and and Combat Martial Arts, Maid- pieces they needed to get the team stone. up and running. If your community organisation Castledene directors John and would like to apply for a free let of Nicky Amey were approached by Mote Hall for an event between team administrator and self-em- The Maidstone United Rangers Under 7s show off their new strip April 2016 and March 2017, please ployed lorry driver Mick Hydes contact Paul Caulfield in the coun- Although the lads haven’t had want to thank them for their great and were only too happy to help. cil’s parks and leisure department, too much success in the league so contribution, allowing these young Until then, the nine youngsters on 01622 602584 or email far, they did win two matches in boys the chance to develop their aged five to seven had been play- [email protected] the Autumn trophy, winning a game and learn to interact with ing in borrowed strip. The closing date for applications place in the final, only to be de- others by following the rules of re- The team were formed for the is Friday, January 15, 2016. feated by Tunbridge Wells Ridge- spect.” start of the season in September way Lions U7s. “The boys are absolutely thrilled and the boys play in the Saturday Mr Hydes said: “We had a group now that they finally have their U7s Maidstone Invicta League. of children who weren’t in a team own kit and don’t have to borrow Read our archived They play their home games at and saw the potential to set up a from others.” editions FREE online at the Gallagher Stadium, where they new side from scratch. The team train on Tuesday receive coaching from two of the “These boys have been given a evenings and play on a Saturday. www.downsmail.co.uk teenagers in Maidstone United’s great opportunity thanks to the If there is no game, they put in an football academy. support of Castledene, and we extra session of training.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 3 News downsmail.co.uk Achievement is rewarded How volunteering gave Continued from page one with each of them on their cases. Together we learned what worked me a new drive for life and what didn't work. Within two A MAIDSTONE man has de- Throughout my working life, most you are compelled to help. years I was a leader in a newly-de- scribed how volunteering for In- of what I’d done had been on my “If I didn’t have the volunteering veloped national networking or- volve’s community transport own and I’d always been self-re- there’s a fair chance I’d just be at ganisation for mediation and service helped him to recover from liant. But then I suffered my break- home and wouldn’t have done any- helped write the national training a mental breakdown five years down and that self-reliance went thing. You stay active in this role, manual.” ago. out of the window. you’ve got to think about what Since then, thousands of people Steve Cotton was employed as an “She said I needed to get involved you’re doing and where you’re have been helped by Annette and engineer for 45 years, but after re- and be in con- going. You’re not thinking of your- her team of trained mediators. covering from a head-on crash in tact with other self all the time, you’re thinking of Annette was nominated by pre- his work van, he suffered a break- people, and the people you’re helping because vious winner and former Maid- down. that it would many of them are pretty frail.” stone mayor Mike FitzGerald, who He said: “It totally changed do me the Steve recommends other people said: "Throughout her time with everything and I was unable to go world of good. get started with volunteering like Maidstone Mediation Annette to work. I’d look in the mirror and I visited In- he did. “If you are capable, if you worked tirelessly. Her legacy is although it was the same person I volve’s office, have the time, volunteering is an Maidstone Mediation, to which was looking at, my brain was did my DBS ideal thing to do, especially if you’re many other mediation groups turn scrambled. check and got on your own. You get out, you meet for support and advice. They were He recalled: “My psychiatrist said started. people and they’re always grateful. the first to deliver restorative justice I was burned out after working too “From the first client they gave If you have a couple of free days a across Maidstone and to work with hard. She said if I hadn’t had the me, something sparked and I’ve en- week you can fit it around other schools of all ages." breakdown the chances are I would joyed it ever since. It didn’t take me commitments. You can do as much Annette also uses her experience have had a heart attack or a stroke. long to settle. I’ve got people to talk or as little as you like.” to influence the national agenda I was doing long hours; I’d be work- to, people you can understand. Community Transport provides a through her involvement in the ing from 5 or 6 in the morning to 10 They’re fun, they know a lot of his- low cost alternative for Maidstone Restorative Justice Council where or 11 at night and this happened tory. I’ve been there ever since. and Malling residents who are un- she has been part of the Standards regularly.” “We pick the clients up at the able to use public transport, and Accreditation committee for As he was unable to return to door, we take them where they whether due to disability, frailty or more than five years. work, Steve’s counsellor suggested want to go, then bring them home illness. Anyone who would like to To nominate someone you be- he started volunteering. “No pay, and make sure they can get to their become a volunteer driver should lieve deserves recognition in the no work”, he responded. door. It evolves as much or as little call 01622 756662 or email commu- 2016 awards, go to www.cele- “My counsellor pointed out that as you want it to. [email protected] bratemaidstone.org.uk. it wasn’t just for other people. “There are certain people that for more information.

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4 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Call to keep footpath green RESIDENTS in Loose fighting to retain their green public footpath have presented a petition to County Cllr Eric Hotson. Cllr Hotson sits on the Maid- stone Joint Transportation Board, which is trying to progress a plan to develop a cycle route and bri- dleway between Loose and the town centre, as part of a greater scheme to alleviate traffic conges- tion to the south of the town. Residents in Kirkdale Cottages fear that widening the path and making it hard-surfaced will at- tract quad bikers and argue the scheme is ill-researched and ill- thought out. To turn the public footpath into The residents launched an online a cycle route, its status has to be petition and raised 210 signatures changed to that of a bridleway. within 36 hours. Mrs Hunt said: “The width and By the time they presented it to surface required for this multi-use Cllr Hotson the following day, the are very damaging to a rural con- number had risen to 289, along servation area. with seven pages of comments. “Cyclists say this route is not vi- Kirkdale Cottage resident Hilary able. There is no evidence that local Hunt said: “We have been very people need, want or will use this gratified by the huge amount of cycle route if created. support given to our online peti- “We want KCC to protect and tion. enhance the conservation area val- “Kirkdale footpath is a key fea- ley and village, its character, its ture of this lovely green conserva- ecology, everything it offers. We tion area valley, which many want KCC to carry out its duty of people (including Loose Parish care for the people who live here, Council and Loose Amenities As- not make daily life less safe for us. sociation) have for decades We want KCC to create a safe and worked to protect and enhance.” sustainable cycle route; there aren't Cllr Hotson spent more than 45 many options, but with imagina- minutes with the residents, walk- tion and determination, it's possi- ing Kirkdale and the footpath, vil- ble.” lage lanes and the millstream path. The petition is still open for sig- Mrs Hunt said: “He knows natures – search Kirkdale on Loose well – the views, the valley, change.org – and residents say the lovely path, the historic village they will present updates to Cllr – and listened to the wide range of Hotson at regular intervals. concerns about a proposal which There is also a link to the petition would create a scar along the side from the Loose Amenities Associa- of the conservation area valley and tion Facebook page, where there is create an unsafe cycle route into more information about the associ- and through the village.” ation’s campaign. Chimney fire Carol concert FIREFIGHTERS were called to THERE will be an uplifting serv- a chimney fire in Postley Road, ice of carols performed by Maid- Tovil. stone Choral Union, at All Saints’ They removed a wood-burn- Church, Mill Street on Saturday ing stove prior to rodding the December 12. chimney. The choir will be conducted by Kent Fire and Rescue Service Martin Hindmarsh with Brian is reminding people who use White and Stephen Westrop on open fires or log-burning the organ. stoves that it is vital to make Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm sure they are in good working order for the winter. start. Tickets are priced £12 on the door. Read all the latest editions of the Downs Mail at FREE www.downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 5 News downsmail.co.uk Health day MORE than 150 people attended a respiratory awareness day for pa- Julia takes over as West tients with lung conditions held by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust. The event at the academic centre Kent police commander at Maidstone Hospital, was organ- ised by consultant respiratory A STAPLEHURST policewoman for Operation Stack. physician Dr Syed Arshad Husain, has been appointed Commander Chief Superintendent Chapman with the help of the hospital’s re- for West Kent Division. said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the search unit. Chief Superintendent Julia Chap- first few weeks in my new role and The event was opened by the man has served in the police for 23 am very pleased to have returned to Deputy Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr years, primarily in the Maidstone West Division where I previously Derek Butler. and Medway areas. worked as a Detective Chief Inspec- The trust’s chief executive, Glenn From 2010 to 2011 she was Detec- tor. Douglas, and medical director, Dr tive Chief Inspector for tactical and “I look forward to continuing the Paul Sigston also attended. serious crime, based at Medway, work of my predecessor Chief Su- Dr Husain said: “The patient then she spent a year as DCI for West perintendent Steve Corbishley.” feedback has been excellent.” Division. Chief Superintendent Corbishley From September 2012 to Septem- has been selected for the Police Na- ber 2014 she served as Superinten- tional Assessment Centre, which Read our archived dent for Medway and North chooses future chief officers for the editions FREE online at Division and then spent a year as Su- police service. perintendent in charge of strategic The district commander for Maid- www.downsmail.co.uk planning and tactical operations, in- stone remains Chief Inspector Mick cluding acting as Gold Commander Gardner. Gift will make a difference Driving ban for drinks offence A MAIDSTONE motorist has been banned from driving for almost YOUR gift could make Christmas weekdays. A spokesman said: “No two years and fined £110 for driving while over the alcohol limit. special for someone in need in gift is too small. By giving a gift, John Knell (38), from Brewer Street, appeared at Mid Kent Mag- Maidstone this festive season. you can make a real difference to istrates Court and admitted driving a Ford Fiesta in Upper Stone The Salvation Army’s Christmas someone’s life this Christmas.” Street with 95mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. The legal limit is Present Appeal invites the public to Another team will wrap the gifts 35mg. leave a new, unwrapped gift or toy and distribute them to those in Knell was banned for 23 months. As well as his fine, he must pay at its community office, at 74-80 need in the community. £150 in criminal courts charges, £85 costs and a £20 victim surcharge. Union Street, from 9am to noon on For details call 681808.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 7 News downsmail.co.uk Family fun at festive concert Air ambulance hoping JOIN Maidstone Wind Symphony for a magical musical journey for all the family this Christmas. The National Wind Band Champi- to secure central base ons will perform The Snowman with soloist Rupert Walker, principal cho- KENT Air Ambulance is on the move – and looking to take roost at a new rister from Rochester Cathedral, at All Saints’ Church, Mill Street, Maid- base between Yalding and Paddock Wood. stone at 3pm on Sunday, December The air ambulance service began ciently and build the resilience and 20. There will be free pre-concert ac- in 1989 has been based in Pattenden sustainability we need for the tivities for children from 2.15pm in- Lane, Marden since 2000. longer term, we must move to one cluding a chance to try conducting. A second depot opened on the central operating base.” There will be an interval for re- Surrey/Sussex border seven years Old Hay Airfield has the space freshments when families with later, switching to Redhill in 2013 needed for a helipad, hangar, con- younger children can leave if they to enable a night-flying service. trol room, related workspace and wish. The second half will feature The charity, which covers the facilities for crew changeovers. carols and Christmas pieces. three counties of Kent, Surrey and Mr Bell said: “Our current heli- Admission is free for under 12s Sussex, hopes to consolidate its op- copters are sufficient by day but and £5 for accompanying parents who wish to leave at the interval. eration in a £7.5m move to Old Hay not best suited to support night op- Adrian Bell and pilot Leigh Curtis Tickets for all other audience mem- Airfield, off Willow Lane, near erations.” bers are £8 or £10. Go to www.maid- Laddingford. ment in our history. Old Hay Air- If the move goes ahead, one of stonewindsymphony.org. The charity expects to submit a field represents a once-in-a- the older helicopters is being re- planning application to Tunbridge lifetime opportunity for the Kent, placed with one that boasts a larger Wells Council within the next few Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance to cabin giving the medical teams 360- Dementia cafe weeks in the hope of having the establish a resilient, sustainable degree access to every patient, plus, ANYONE with dementia or who new base up and running by 2017. base from which we can serve our it will fly much further without the cares for someone with dementia is The new location would mean community. need for refuelling and is faster, so invited to the Dementia Café at the air ambulance could reach any “To maintain and improve our will be able to get casualties to hos- Heart of Kent Hospice, Preston Hall, destination within 25 minutes. pioneering service to the commu- pital quicker. Aylesford, where you can find out The air ambulance has almost nity we have to invest in new, The 57-acre Old Hay airfield was more about the support available. doubled its work in the past five larger aircraft that will be able to built privately in 1989 and is jointly The cafe, open from 10.30am to years and running two bases is give us the capability that a 21st owned by four flying enthusiasts. It 12.30pm on the first Saturday of proving not to be cost-effective. century operation demands. And is home to several vintage aircraft every month, is run by dementia Chief executive Adrian Bell said: in order to operate these aircraft ef- and the Kent Scouts Air Activities nurse specialist, Tracy Jackson. “We have reached a landmark mo- fectively, deploy our crews effi- Group. 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 Window and door hinges Thank you for the excellent product and efficient installation of our front porch. and stays “ A large congratulations for the co-ordination of survey, floor laying, door ordering, Leak and draught repairs supplying & fixing is very much appreciated ” Mrs Jupp - Orpington We supply & install windows, doors & conservatories including UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering & Call 01622 902005 FOR FAST FRIENDLY QUOTES & ADVICE www.fairdealwindows.co.uk Celebrating 22 years of continuous trading Find us at: Unit K, Orchard Business Centre, 20/20 Industrial Estate, Aylesford, Kent ME16 0JZ

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8 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 9 News downsmail.co.uk Town tax office Double success for James PEGASUS gymnast James Hall (20) has made history in both Great Britain and Germany in the space of two weeks. Australian-born James was selected as part of the GB team to compete at set for closure the world championships in Glasgow, which claimed the silver medal. Great Britain has never achieved such a result and the team has now qual- ified for the 2016 Rio Olympics. HM Revenue and Customs skilled jobs and varied career paths After Glasgow, James began train- (HMRC) has confirmed its Maid- up to senior levels with less need to ing for the Bundesliga in Germany, stone office will close in 2020/21. move around the country.” where he joined the team represent- The office, at Medvale House in HMRC expects between 5,000 ing Monheim of Germany. Monheim Mote Road, Maidstone currently and 5,300 full-time equivalent em- won the competition for the first time. employs about 200 people. Those ployees to work in the Stratford re- James performed clean routines in- still working at the time of closure gional centre and 2,500 to 2,800 cluding high-level skills and new ele- will have the chance to relocate to full-time equivalent employees in ments and connections to carry the one of two new regional centres. the Croydon regional centre. team through the event to success. He The Government’s taxation de- There will also be specialist cen- and his team mates have been asked to take part in the event next year. partment is now mid-way through tres in Worthing and Dover. James first appeared for Team GB at the 2013 Australian Youth Olympic a 10-year modernisation pro- The reorganisation includes in- Festival in Sydney, winning floor gold. Born in Australia, he is a multiple gramme designed to create a tax vestment in online services, data medallist at the British and English Championships and made his senior team authority fit for the future. analytics, compliance techniques debut at the FIG World Cup in Glasgow in 2014. It plans to close 43 offices in the and new skills and ways of work- London, South East and East of ing to make it easier for the honest England by 2028, while creating re- majority of customers to pay their Loery win scam warning gional centres in Croydon and tax and harder for the dishonest SHOPPERS in Maidstone have been appeared to be passing by. Stratford, East London. minority to cheat the system. warned about a scam which has cost The woman sobbed throughout William Hague, chief people offi- Lin Homer, HMRC’s chief execu- one victim £5,000. the scam and claimed her mother cer, HMRC said: “HMRC’s work- tive, said: “HMRC has too many KCC Trading Standards has re- was dying and she wanted to see her force in the area is currently spread expensive, isolated and out-dated ceived a report of an incident in before she died. throughout 43 offices, many of offices. This makes it difficult for us Week Street, when a man and The victim’s son said his father which are a legacy of the 1960s and to collaborate, modernise our ways woman used a sob story to convince was persuaded to collect the money 1970s, and range in size from about of working, and make the changes a shopper to hand over money. from his bank. He later realised he 2,000 people to fewer than 10. By we need to clamp down on the mi- The victim was approached by an had been conned. bringing them together in large, nority who try to cheat the system.” Asian woman who said she had had Anyone who is asked for money modern offices, equipped with dig- The plans are designed to gener- a lottery win which she could not in the street is asked to contact the ital infrastructure and training fa- ate estate savings of £100 million a claim because her visa had expired. police on 101 with details and de- cilities, HMRC will support more year by 2025. The scam also involved a man, who scriptions of the people involved.

12th, 13th, 15th & 16th FEBRUARY 2016

10 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News School agreed, but pupil numbers cut THE Jubilee Primary School has years, said: “Gatland House was been allowed to remain at Gatland previously a short-term home for House in Fant after Maidstone vulnerable people who needed res- Council said pupil numbers idential care and had only limited should be halved to 210. parking requirements. The planning committee origi- “This will cause parking disrup- nally deferred an application for up tion and pressure on spaces only to 420 pupils at the school, which solved by parking on nearby roads. has been operating since Septem- The school must ensure on-site ber 2014 with a temporary consent parking is provided for staff and given to Government free schools. residents.” BUYING OR A meeting in March heard there KCC did not object on highways were 80 public objections and com- grounds, meaning the committee mittee members had concerns could not use this as a reason to about parking and traffic, lack of vote against the scheme. It was SELLING YOUR amenities and the faith ethos. granted due to the support of seven But councillors have now sup- members. ported the proposal after officers Cllr Stephen Paine said the pro- HOME LOCALLY? emphasised that the site, with its posal had caused a rift in the com- limited amenity space, could only munity in Fant, which he cater for a one-form entry per year. represents. He said: “As a council- The full capacity should be reached lor I now preside over a broken, Put your trust in your local by September 2022. split and sore community. I have Cllr Dan Daley, a KCC member, parents writing to me worried their agent who has 35 years said: “The compromise offered is children will not have a school and just and fair, both to the school and I have dozens, dozens and dozens experience of buying, selling & to a degree, to the residents – by the of parents writing to me saying reduction in traffic associated with they do not want the school. the lower numbers of pupils.” “It is an unenviable situation and letting homes in Maidstone. Cllr Paul Harper, one of two we have to work to patch the com- committee members to vote against munity back together and fix this.” the scheme, said that 61 of the Neil Pattison, of Jubilee Primary school’s 90 pupils were from the school, said: “Decisions concerning Maidstone area, with 22 of these the final size of the school will be from Fant, the ward he represents. made in conjunction with Maid- Plus we offer: “This is a very small number,” he stone Council, KCC and the De- said. “Even if this goes ahead we partment for Education. will still need another primary “We will build on the foundation 1% + VAT with no extra school in the Hermitage Lane of an excellent education for our area.” children and aim at nothing less charges Joe Mayatt, a local resident for 52 than an outstanding Ofsted rating.” No tie in contract Pupils running for success A CROSS-country club started by a Maidstone primary school teacher has Professional accompanied proved a runaway success. Since Wendy Ball started the after class-club and lunchtime training viewings sessions were started at Greenfields Community Primary School in FREE EPC’s for new September, her running recruits have taken first instructions received by place in the Maidstone schools’ cross country races end of December 2015 and joint second place at county level. Wendy said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the interest the running club has generated. I run with the Call us today children to encourage them and they think it’s great fun Bearsted Office beating their teacher. Bearsted Green, Bearsted ME14 4QZ “We had more than 40 children competing in the Maidstone races and more children are asking to join.” Tel: 01622 737800 Their results in the Maidstone Schools’ cross country championships were: Year 4 Boys – 1st; Year 4 Girls – 1st; individual races: Ethan Smith – Penenden Heath Office 1st; Ollie Collins – 3rd; Violet Smith – 1st ; Ruby Cunliffe – 4th; Ruby Penenden Heath, Maidstone ME14 2HN Wilson – 5th. And in Ashford Schools’ cross country championships, the Year 4 Girls’ team earned second place and Year 4 boys’ third. In the Tel: 01622 671200 Kent County Championships, the Year 4 girls’ team took joint second place. www.ferrisandco.net

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 11 12 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Watch ‘needs more volunteers’ MAIDSTONE and District Neighbourhood Watch Association could be disbanded if more volun- teers do not come forward. The scheme, which has been run- proper dialogue, discussions and to close, it would be likely to amalga- and anti-social behaviour at regu- ning since the 1980s, provides agree on strategy.” mate with West Kent Neighbour- lar meetings. crime and safety awareness and ad- Jim (pictured) says the organisa- hood Watch and thus lose its “The coordinator receives crime vice throughout the borough. tion will grind to a halt in its cur- independence. Jim said: “By keep- messages covering a particular area There are currently 485 coordina- rent form because there is not ing it local we know the area, from police on a regular basis. It tors who disseminate information enough man- where the problems are and what brings people together and rein- to 14,000 households – yet the power to needs more attention. forces the need to help vulnerable group’s committee is consistently monitor coor- “We are trawling the same pool people. unable to make decisions on strat- dinators’ de- for the same fish; the same person “In many places you have elderly egy because of too few members. tails or for the who volunteers joins a lot of the people living by themselves, and if Due to departures in late 2014 the authority to same organisations. Unfortunately they know there is a system where committee has spent the past year target areas, they are getting old and less mo- people will look in and help them with a total five members, the min- many urban, bile. We are not getting young peo- it will give peace of mind – espe- imum needed for meetings to be not yet cov- ple interested. Society has changed cially as there are more and more quorate. Despite the best efforts of ered by and people’s time is much more frauds and scams taking place at chairman Jim Wilson, no one has Neighbour- limited.” the moment.” come forward to sit on the commit- hood Watch. Neighbourhood Watch is strug- Sgt Phillip Hibbern, deputy com- tee. He needs at gling to become established in mander for West Kent Police, told He said: “We can’t be sure that all least six people: treasurer, secre- some urban areas in Maidstone. the Neighbourhood Watch AGM five members will turn up for meet- tary, database manager, products Jim added: “In the past we used to that coordinators are eyes and ears ings; when they don’t, we cannot manager (dealing with purchasing have residents’ associations, but we of the community, providing vital make decisions, which causes prob- and selling), website manager and have very few of them now. communication, community reas- lems with the police because we are anyone else prepared to give up “Neighbourhood Watch brings surance and support. not being represented properly. two hours for meetings on the last the community together; neigh- Anyone who would like to join “We are like a ship without a Wednesday of every month. bours get to know each other as the committee should call Jim on rudder. You need numbers to have Should the group be forced to well as problems such as burglaries 01622 693346. Online crime ‘needs new approach’ Annual award A BARMING woman who pro- POLICE in West Kent are evolving may have been victims of phone business if their goods are stolen duced her own guidance docu- their approach to deal with increases scams and some struggle to get insurance ment for local Neighbourhood in online fraud, phone scams and “Everyone has to take responsibil- because of the risks.” Watch coordinators has won an rogue traders. ity for protecting vulnerable people.  Theft of cars There was a partic- annual award. Sgt Phillip Hibbern, deputy com- “Please continue with what you ular spike in thefts of Land Rover Heather Coppock, of South mander for West Kent Police, told are doing as an association and Defender vehicles due to them no Street, was named Neighbour- the Maidstone and District Neigh- evolve as we are trying to evolve.” longer being in production. Stolen hood Watch Co- bourhood Watch annual meeting: Mr Hibbern said there were four vehicles are sold off in Britain and ordinator of the “We have traditionally dealt with main areas in which crime was caus- abroad. Year. The free- crimes such as burglaries but the ing a concern in Maidstone:  Theft of mobile phones The new lance manage- new challenge is the online criminal.  Seasonal burglaries From Octo- Iphone 6 is a particular target. ment trainer “For many generations we have ber to the New Year burglaries are Those who are out socialising were created a book- focused on the same crime types but higher than the rest of the year. warned to be vigilant. let to help coor- now we are having to look at evolv- Several arrests have taken place as Sgt Hibbert also announced that dinators in their ing crime types. part of Operation Castle. the borough of Ashford would join duties and encourage them to net- “We need to identify vulnerable  Theft of tools from vans “This the West Kent Division in 2016. work. She hopes to attract funding victims and work with trading stan- has been going on for a while now. “I get more staff and more responsi- to run training sessions using the dards. We need to get the message It is about protecting tradespeople’s bility to deal with criminality,” he principles of the document. out to families and the elderly who livelihoods; they might go out of said. GPs plan to work ‘smarter’ Castle is triathlon winner DOCTORS concerned about growing pressure on GP practices in LEEDS Castle has been selected to short run to the bike racks and, Maidstone, Malling and the Weald are forming a federation. be part of Triathlon England’s Na- after a quick change, competitors The aim is for GPs to “work smarter, not harder”, and not risk tional Championships for 2016. head out onto Kent’s roads for a 26 “burning out” as they care for the health of others. The castle, which hosted its own km cycle on the A20 to Charing and This will help practices employ staff between them, increase serv- events in 2014 and 2015, has been back. The final leg involves a 5K ices on offer and allow them to share expertise and working loads. included on the 2016 British run along the upper parkland. Initially, GP practices will provide better training for doctors, Triathlon Age-Group Major Events The castle’s own Junior nurses and other staff, strengthen cover arrangements by running a Calendar, providing an opportu- Aquathlon takes place on the same local locum bank and save NHS money by joining forces to buy es- nity for Britain’s top age groupers day, with participants expected to sentials. to prepare for the Olympics and complete a 50m swim and 600m The aim is to increase scope, perhaps by filling in for GPs who are Paralympics. run. sick or unavailable, or enabling patients to see GPs with a special skill Leeds Castle's sprint distance on On the Sunday, there will be the in some areas of work. June 25 will form part of Triathlon Leeds Castle Sprint Triathlon and Federations may eventually include staff beyond those working for England's National Champi- the Leeds Castle Standard Distance individual practices, so patients benefit from integrated teams of onships. Triathlon. health visitors, district nurses and mental health specialists working The 750-metre swim will take The sprint involves another 750m closely with a group of practices. place in the castle moat, with swim- swim, 26K cycle and 5K run, while GPs foresee workload increasing for various reasons, but the num- mers passing under the castle the standard distance event is a ber of doctors could fall due to retirements and difficulties in urgent through the two ancient arches. gruelling 1500m swim, 40K cycle recruitment. Once out of the water, there is a ride and 10K run.

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 13 News downsmail.co.uk Diary to avoid event clashes Lights just the start of MAIDSTONE Council is hoping to organise a “no clash” diary for event organisers from 2016. Recent clashes between big sparkling festive season events have left visitors unable to get accommodation, the Town The lights are sparkling all over Maidstone in the run-up to the festive Team’s marketing group meeting heard. The online diary, which will season. be put to the test over the next few With late-night shopping on Ellen Dance Studios and Vocad- weeks and launched fully in the Thursdays and a dazzling array of emy. New Year, is intended to give or- weekend entertainment, the Dick Wickenden, who plays sax- ganisers of all events – however county town is hoping its Christ- ophone under the name Kentish- large or small – advance warning of mas “presence” will rival that of all sax, will perform on December 12, other events in the area which its regional competitors. when there will be a surprise flash- could coincide. Following the excitement of the mob element to the afternoon’s “Some clashes are inevitable, but Christmas lights switch-on by proceedings, and again on Decem- this way, people can see what is Maidstone’s panto stars and a per- ber 19. coming up at any given time and formance by X Factor finalists There will also be walkabout en- plan their own events accordingly,” Alien Uncovered, most of the town tertainment for children in Fremlin said the council’s Laura Dickson. centre shops are now open late Walk and traditional festive music The town’s new culture, heritage each Thursday, giving workers the on the Sundays leading up to and tourism department is also chance to get their gifts while still Christmas. The popular Christmas hoping to compile a library of high- avoiding busy weekends. market returns too, with gourmet resolution copyright-free images Late-night entertainment on delights such as bratwurst, churros which anyone can access and use as those evenings will include stilt and crepes. part of their promotional literature. walkers, jugglers, choirs and As well as the traditional twin bands. trees in Lower and Upper High On Saturdays December 12 and Street, there will be some addi- Charity recital 19, the Town Centre Management tional colour being organised by THE Heart of Kent Hospice will has organised a varied programme Zoe Sparkle and her team of yarn benefit by about £11,000 from a of music and dance in Jubilee bomber – look out for some festive charity performance by Maidstone Square, including performances knitting appearing on buildings Christmas sparkle in Jubilee Square, Choral Union at Mote Hall of from the Maidstone-based Mandy and benches near you. Maidstone Gilbert and Sullivan's HMS Pinafore. It attracted an audience of Read our archived editions FREE online at www.downsmail.co.uk more than 500. COUNTY COBBLER SHOE REPAIRS LADIES MENS Heels from £6.95 Heels from £12.95 Stick on Sole Stick on Sole + Heel from + Heel £14.95 £21.95

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 15 News downsmail.co.uk Call for action Putting the boots in UNEMPLOYED residents may be able get a helping hand to put their best feet forward. Maidstone Council has opened a “boot bank” which will enable people on traffic chaos to take on manual work by giving them free work boots, which can be paid for at a later date. AYLESFORD MP Tracey Crouch potentially threatening hundreds The money will then has called for an end to traffic of jobs. be used to buy more chaos as vehicles leave a busy “The concern of many, including boots to keep the shopping complex. me, is that development in sur- scheme going. She said that as a regular user of rounding areas will compound the The idea for the the shops at Quarry Wood, off the issue unless something is done to scheme came about A20 near M20 Junction 5, she had improve the flow of traffic coming when a group of seen the problem for herself, but out of Quarry Wood. agencies working to- over the past few weeks it had de- “I know this is something Ton- gether to support teriorated and a number of con- bridge and Malling Council is con- homeless people in stituents had contacted her. cerned about too. This is an issue the town found that With further development for KCC and Highway Services and some people had planned for the business park and I am writing to them to see what been offered work, with a large number of homes set they can do to solve this headache. but could not afford to be built in the Aylesford area and It could be something as simple as the boots they in Hermitage Lane, Maidstone it changing the timing on the traffic needed to take on Damien South presents boots to Cllr Marion Ring was feared that the problem would lights, but then it could be some- the job. get worse. thing more fundamental such as Lordswood-based construction company Faithdean has agreed to kick- Ms Crouch said the traffic at the different entrance and exits.” start the scheme with a donation of 10 pairs of work boots. Director junction of the feeder roads from Ms Crouch welcomed the Damien South said: “I hope that providing some of the equipment needed the business estate with the A20 prospect of new retailers moving to take on work will make a real difference.” London Road was “a complete and into the area, making it all the more Cllr Marion Ring, chairman of Maidstone Council’s communities, hous- utter nightmare at the weekends,” urgent to make sure the issue was ing and environment committee, said: “Some of the barriers that people with drivers complaining of long resolved. Sainsbury’s said cus- face to get back into work can be very simple to overcome with just a lit- delays. One woman said she had tomers were affected by the road tle innovative thinking, and the boot bank has the potential to help some been forced to queue for an hour to layout at busy times, but it had in- of those in most need.” get out of Sainsbury’s car park. troduced marshals to help direct Those using the scheme initially will be those with a local connection The MP said: “Another told me vehicles and was working with who have been referred by local support agencies. they now consider going elsewhere KCC, who said it had received Ms Any companies which are able to donate boots or protective equipment to shop over the weekend, pushing Crouch’s letter and would respond to the scheme, can email [email protected]. business away from the estate and to it. Capralama Farm, Bethersden, Ashford, Kent TN26 3EQ Make your Christmas Magical with a visit to The Reindeer Centre Young and old will enjoy meeting Father Christmas, children will have their very own special encounter with Father Christmas and receive a quality wrapped gift, Christmas hat and special reindeer passport of their own. Stroll through 7 animated Christmas scenes.

OPEN 14TH NOVEMBER www.reindeercentre.co.uk UNTIL 24TH DECEMBER

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS  Straw Bale Ball Pit  Artificial snow Play Area  Elf entertainers  Gift Shop  Bouncy Castle and Play Area  Light refreshments available  Enter the animal corner and meet the pigs, goats, llamas, donkeys, meerkats, rabbits and reptile corner.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 17 News downsmail.co.uk Rewards for long service

TWO Maidstone employees of Now a distribution technician, South East Water who started Mick said: “Things are much more working for the company 25 years customer-focused, with new tech- ago have been recognised for their nology converting our vans into mo- long service. bile offices.” Mick Bryant and Mike Masters Mike’s career with Mid Kent were among 17 staff presented with Water started 32 years ago, when he certificates and gift vouchers after became an apprentice plumber. He clocking up 25 years service in the left in 1989 to become self-em- water industry. ployed, but work dried up as the re- Mick’s first job was an apprentice- cession hit so he returned. Victoria Harris (left) and Hayley Long sold cupcakes for Children in Need ship as a garage mechanic before he Now a leakage technician, Mike moved to a farm at East Farleigh. He has seen some spectacular burst then got a labourer’s post at Mid water pipe sights. In 1991 he got a Pupils boost charity total Kent Water and has since worked in call to Seven Mile Lane near East STUDENTS and staff at New Line including a popcorn stand, a bake a number of roles, including water Peckham where the Roydon Hall Learning Academy, in Boughton sale and game to guess how many meter installations. Bends were being straightened by Lane, Loose helped to collect hun- sweets in a jar. Kent County Council. dreds of pounds for Children in Need Principal David Elliott said: "It’s al- He said: “It was a cartoon-like with a range of fundraising activities. ways great to see the students sup- scene of a column of water 100 feet Pupils started the fun on Friday, port charity events such as Children high flooding the entire site.” November 13 by donating £1 to in Need. They're really enthusiastic Paul Butler, managing director of wear something spotty to class. about running the activities and rais- South East Water, congratulated the At lunchtime, there were various ing as much money as they can for a men, saying: “Both Mick and Mike initiatives to help boost the amount, fantastic cause." have shown, and continue to show, dedication to their job, their team and to the company. The water in- dustry has seen many changes but Read all the latest editions of the Downs Mail Mike Masters (left) and Mick Bryant they both have taken it all in their at www.downsmail.co.uk with Paul Butler stride.”

Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk More than just cupcakes at this hidden cafe Located in its own hidden makers can make your special bespoke spot in a characterful grade- wedding, birthday or celebration cakes. II listed building in Larkfield, Perhaps the most exciting thing about Cupcake Heart Café offers Cupcake Heart is the magical and much much more than its loved children’s cupcake party where children name get to have fun sugar-crafting suggests. and decorating their own set of It is open every day for cupcakes. breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, If you want to learn how to freshly ground coffee and, of make your own creations then course, cakes and cupcakes. try out the adult sugarcraft The cafe’s extensive breakfast classes and you can even buy or lunch menu can be enjoyed in your own cake making Special offers its two tearooms or large garden equipment in the sugar craft can also be found and play area hidden at the shop or a gift from the gift on Cupcake back. While you relax and shop. Heart Café’s choose from the menu, which Children can also get involved Facebook page. includes jacket potatoes, pulled this Christmas with dedicated pork baguettes, paninis, salads sugarcraft classes on December and much more, your children 19, 21 and 22. can play in the play house or the wooden pirate Convenient parking is available next door ship. There are also swings for them to enjoy. behind the Wealden Hall. With friendly and Not only is Cupcake Heart a café it also offers helpful staff don’t miss out on Kent’s great a host of other activities. The specialist cake little secret cupcake cafe. 01732 220222 Cupcake Heart Cafe www.cupcakeheart.co.uk 781-783 London Road, Larkfield ME20 6DE Email: [email protected] opposite Morrison’s. Parking is available in The Wealden Hall next door

18 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk Own an Apple computer? You need MCS

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 19 Christmas at Embankments Restaurant is always special "Great food, great location, great seasonal atmosphere" Lunch: 2 courses £19 or 3 courses £25 per person Evening: 3 courses £35 per person incl: flute of Kir Royal or privately book the whole restaurant for your Christmas party to include disco until 2am A la Carte menu still available for non Christmas bookings. If you’re too busy to party during the Christmas rush late Company Christmas party bookings available for January and February £25pp New Years Eve EAT, DRINK AND GET MERRY Come and enjoy great food, flowing drinks and great atmosphere. 3 course set menu £45 per person Includes: Live Magician show and table magic Live Music by Keval - Reggae & Ska fusion, 4 piece band and dancing until 2am Bar open until 2am To book and see our new year's eve menu. Visit www.embankments.co.uk Deposit of £10 per person required when booking. Food requires pre-order one week prior to event 0800 689 7888 (email: [email protected] for more info) River Medway rear of Archbishops Palace, Mill Street, Maidstone ME15 6YE

20 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Split in shared planning service A SHARED service between three out of the partnership, leaving the MAIDSTONE’S councils – including Maidstone – remaining two boroughs to share designed to save costs and im- the costs of the service. PREMIER BED CENTRE prove efficiency has hit the Officers at Tunbridge Wells buffers. claimed 87% of its applications The Mid Kent Planning Support were registered within five days Service, a joint venture between prior to the merger, but only 34% Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells and of them were registered within that Swale, was set up in the summer of time afterwards. 2014. Maidstone’s applications consti- The shared service was sup- tuted 37% of the shared workload, posed to improve efficiency but it but it only contributed 27% of the immediately ran into trouble, with cost. many planning applications taking Maidstone officers believe the longer than the statutory eight service has now “bedded in” and weeks to determine, with a huge works in the way it was originally backlog of work building up. planned. The council’s share of the A disgruntled Tunbridge Wells cost will now rise by £56,000 to council has now decided to pull £283,239 a year. Walkers’ record effort HIKERS who took part in the North Downs Walk raised a record amount Velda Evolution for Rotarians at the Weald of Kent Club. This year the 30th annual walk raised £14,000 for Cancer Research UK. Adjustable bed with optional mattresses and alternative A cheque was pre- handset controls available. sented to Lynette Far- ley, the charity’s local Velda Adjustable Divan Beds are hand made in Belgium, a fundraising manager wide range of luxurious fabrics to choose from allow you to at an awards evening. create the bed of your dreams. Weald of Kent Ro- Adjustable Deluxe 150cm x 200cm with end drawers tary Club president NOW £2079 elect Michael was £2449 mattress and headboard optional extra Lawrence said: “This is the largest cheque the club has ever writ- ten, and is a tribute to all of the walkers.” Michael Lawrence presents the cheque to Awards were also Lynette Farley of Cancer Research UK presented to individ- uals and groups who raised the most money. Ms Farley said: “This will make a huge difference to bringing forward the day when all cancers are cured. We are so grateful for the ongoing support of the Rotary Club and all of the dedicated walkers.” Over the past 30 years the North Downs Walk has raised more than £475,000 for charities, including over £240,000 for Cancer Research UK. Next year, the club hopes its walk on June 19 will break the £500,000 barrier. Police finance ‘outstanding’ Venus KENT’S Police Crime Commis- Fire and Rescue Service enabled The Venus Bedstead boasts stylish design detail enhanced by sioner Ann Barnes has welcomed a some savings to be made. Further the natural beauty of oiled American Oak solids & veneers government inspection report, savings were made using more that contrast beautifully with a crisp, fresh ivory paint with a which rated the force’s financial fuel-efficient cars and reducing PEGUYIV½RMWL sustainability as outstanding. building maintenance costs. She said: “By planning ahead we “Unfortunately, cuts still had to Venus two tone 150cm bedstead have balanced the budget while be made to officer and staff num- was £519 NOW £445 mattress optional extra saving £50m over four years. This bers, and in 2015/16 we’re having was not easy, but HMIC recog- to save another £19m, which nised our collaboration arrange- means another £14m coming off Order Now throughout ments with Essex Police and Kent the workforce budget.” Delivery in time for the Kent area Christmas Barclays branch to close On orders over £500 and within 30 miles of store. THE Sutton Road branch of Barclays in Maidstone is to close. Mid Kent MP Helen Whately is among those to have expressed www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk concern about the closure, which will take place on February 26, 2016. Customers will have to travel to Fremlin Walk to use the 01622 753073 bank’s in-branch services. Sandling Road, Maidstone, ME14 2RF

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 21 News downsmail.co.uk Anger at bid to close centre Rugby club features in A CALL by KCC for the public’s view on its plan to close a care home in Maidstone has been met with a wave of opposition. proposal for 450 homes The closure of the Dorothy Lucy Centre in Northumberland Road, A PROPOSAL to build 452 houses on the edge of Tovil includes a new Shepway has caused anger among those worried about losing a per- home for Maidstone Rugby Club. manent home for the elderly and Alan Firmin wants to develop A spokesman for Maidstone the current local plan. A significant the dozens of families who use its 28.4 hectares between Dean Street Council said: “It is normal for sites part is a former landfill site. There respite services, as well as those and Stockett Lane containing hous- to come forward at any stage in the is an existing planning permission who visit its dementia day centres. local plan process. Councillors will for housing on the adjoining site to The county council, which has ing, a doctors’ surgery and a sports decide on this site and 38 others at the north. deemed the centre not fit for pur- field for the occupation of the the strategic planning and sustain- “If the site is accepted it will be pose, says it wants to use the rugby club, whose lease at The ability and transport committee on included in the next Regulation 19 money saved by closing it to im- Mote Cricket Club comes up for re- December 14. consultation. There would be a fur- prove care for service users in their newal in May 2016. “Councillors will give careful ther chance to comment on the own homes. The representation – for possible consideration to the site. It is on the local plan at the public examination However, a public meeting called inclusion on the local plan – says edge of the urban area. Part of the presided over by a government in- by the Kent County Anti-Austerity the sports ground “secures imple- site is allocated for open space in spector.” Alliance at St Faith’s Church in mentation of a long-standing policy Maidstone to save the 28-bed unit commitment which, to date, has from closure attracted more than 50 simply not been deliverable”. supporters. They included rela- Part of the land at Walnut Tree ‘Village’ plan submitted Farm is owned by Maidstone tives, trade unionists, representa- COUNTRYSIDE Properties has submitted a planning application to build a Council. tives of Momentum Maidstone and mini-village off Sutton Road, Maidstone amid hundreds of other homes The representation says the councillors. already under construction to the south of the town. Guest speakers Paul Hobday, mostly agricultural site on Maid- The proposal for 800 homes, a primary school, community hall, nursery, from the National Health Action stone’s urban fringe has good facil- creche, pub, restaurant, allotments, play area and a 60-bed care home has party, and Unison’s Jacqui Berry ities and transport connections, been lodged with Maidstone Council. claimed the closure of Maidstone’s adding: “It would be “a natural ex- The village would be called Rumwood Green and includes open land to dementia respite care centres was tension to Maidstone and not look the south of Sutton Road, next to the Langley Park housing development, an excuse for further privatisation. out of place.” currently under construction. Sue Black, the daughter of a serv- It says that development is pro- The developer likens the layout – off a main street, with a green – to vil- ice user, also gave a speech about posed on a parcel of land to the east lages such as Tenterden in the Weald of Kent and Marlborough in Wilt- the lack of any real alternative serv- of Stockett Lane, designated as part shire, adding: “The village centre is intended to be the heart of this ice provision. of Loose Valley Area of Landscape community. It does not aim to be a major shopping centre but will pro- Those at the meeting supported Importance. vide a range of community services, well-located for the residential neigh- the formation of a committee to The cricket club has been work- bourhoods. Any services provided here will complement those planned for help save the centre and backed a ing with Maidstone Council on a Langley Park.” march due to be held at County proposal for an “enabling residen- It says talks have already been held with KCC. A development of 800 Hall on December 12. A petition tial development” on the upper homes, on land allocated in the council’s draft local plan, would surround will also be handed to the county rugby pitch to find the £4m needed the home of KCC leader Paul Carter. council’s full council by county to improve its ground. councillor Brian Clark this month. Gill’s work recognised Thanks for help £80K officer MAIDSTONE Mencap members A RETIRED teacher who has spent raised £1,044 at their Christmas Continued from page one 12 years supporting people affected bazaar. Organiser Ann Tutte said: leaves his role. A council by brain injury has been shortlisted “Thank you to everyone who sup- spokesman said: “The agency fees for a national award. ported it, to all the helpers on the are similar to the on-costs (National Gill Leandro (65), from day, and a special thank you to Insurance, pen- Kingswood, is one of three finalists Santa and his elves who came sion etc) that the from across the UK up for brain in- along to see our children.” council incurs for jury association Headway’s Volun- members of staff teer of the Year award. Driver banned that it employs di- Maths teacher Gill first started ANTHONY James (40) of Farleigh rectly.” working for Headway West Kent Lane, Tovil, was banned from driv- Mr Spooner has when she was asked to help a person ing for 60 months and given a 120- pledged to create rebuild their numeracy skills after a host woodwork classes at their day suspended jail term for failing a “square mile” in brain injury. After she retired in home, which helps six members of to give a breath test when he was Maidstone, in- 2002, she became a volunteer. Headway West Kent redevelop mo- stopped in his car by police in cluding the redevelopment of land One of her key roles is delivering bility, craft and social skills. Maidstone. He was also billed £315 at Maidstone East station. literacy and numeracy support to Gill has also participated in the in costs. He also hopes to influence man- people who are struggling to relearn charity's annual “Host for Head- agement of The Mall to bring for- lost skills. One service user, whose way” event, preparing a five-course ward its improvement plans. brain injury cost him his job as an ac- meal for 16 people, raising more YMCA hall The council spokesman added: countant, was helped by Gill to pass than £300 for Headway. A YMCA building is to open “Mr Spooner is also responsible for his GCSE mathematics exam. She also takes part in residential in Barfreston Close, Tovil on planning, development and man- In 2013, Gill walked 25 miles weekend breaks for Headway to January 23. agement of Maidstone borough in- around Leeds Castle and in Mote give service users a break from their For any enquiries on meet- cluding leading the delivery of Park, raising £2,500 for Headway daily routine. ing room/hall hire please call multi-million pound projects to West Kent. She was also one of the Gill will discover if she is to be the Loose Centre on 01622 improve the whole borough and first to sign up to the charity's Buddy named Volunteer of the Year at a cer- 749404 or email sue.thomp- the quality of life for all residents, service. Once a week, she and her emony at The Dorchester Hotel, in [email protected]. not only in the town centre.” husband Stephen Beavis (pictured) London, on Friday, December 11.

22 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 Happy Christmas to Everyone!

Citizens Advice Maidstone 2 Bower Terrace, Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, ME16 8RY Telephone: 01622 752420/757882 www.maidstonecab.org.uk

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 23 News downsmail.co.uk Pumptrack plan Veteran award for Shaun A FORMER serviceman has received a national award for helping fellow veterans meet the challenges of adjusting to civilian life and work. Shaun Maloney (pictured), head employability coach and specialist makes progress trainer at Aylesford-based Royal British Legion Industries MORE than 500 people are now work on fundraising and making it (RBLI), was honoured for his backing a campaign for a cycling a reality.” work in helping to change the pumptrack in Maidstone or Mid Mike has approached a number of lives of hundreds of service Kent. developers in a bid to convince leavers. He was chosen to re- Mountain biker Mike Jordan reg- them to incorporate a pumptrack ceive the award because of his ularly travels to a track at Hawkinge into future housing plans, as part of commitment in developing and believes something nearer the their requirement to provide green and delivering the RBLI’s Life- county town would be a great boon space and recreational areas. Works courses, increasing for stunt cyclists. He said: “Several of them have them locally and nationwide Pumptracks allow bikers of all shown interest and said they will and expanding them to sup- kinds to put their wits and skills to discuss incorporating them into fu- port military spouses and part- the test on a purpose-built track. It ture projects, so that’s good news.” ners and veterans serving in can cost between £40,000 and He is still waiting to hear from the prison. £60,000 to build a pumptrack – plus Cobtree Trust about whether there He received the individual the cost of the land. is a suitable space at Cobtree Manor award for excellence in support Mike (27), from Tovil, initially ap- Park, but in the meantime he has set of service leavers at the inau- proached Maidstone Council but up an informal mountain bike club gural Nationwide Resettle- has now been told no land is avail- called Invicta Gravity Riders, with ment Awards ceremony in able, so he has widened the scope to the intention of becoming a regis- Manchester. look at sites within 10 miles of the tered sports club. Delighted Shaun said: “I’m county town. The club has been given steward- overwhelmed to receive the He said: “Having a track near the ship of the old Red Bull Track that award and to have been chosen from so many other dedicated people. As town is a big improvement over the was built in Mote Park in 2010, and a former member of the Armed Forces, I know how daunting it is when nearest track being 40 miles away. has been authorised by Maidstone you leave. It’s like leaving your family and sometimes it’s hard to see how Consequently, we will be contacting Council to carry out repairs. your skills and experience fit into civilian life.” Ashford Council and Tonbridge Mike said: “This is a positive step RBLI chief executive Steve Sherry said: “We’re extremely proud of and Malling Council, to put forward and hopefully we'll be able to work Shaun’s achievement. His knowledge and empathy, together with his com- the proposals and enquire whether on improving mountain-biking op- mitment and creativity in developing the courses to help his fellow veter- they have suitable sites.” tions and facilities across the county, ans, are why he is thoroughly deserving of this award, and we thank and He said: “Allwe need is a patch of improving Kent's appeal as a cy- congratulate him.” land about 30m by 30m and we can cling destination.” HH && CC MotorsMotors Ltd.Ltd.

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24 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 THREE COURSE MEAL for ONLY £17* Choose from the menu Popodums and chutney • Choose a starter Choose a main • Rice and naan bread Now taking bookings for Christmas & New Year 10% This offer is for one month only from 1st to 31 December. Sunday to Thursday. DISCOUNT * T & Cs apply. Offer does not include fish or king prawns. on take always orders over £15

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 25 News downsmail.co.uk LASER SALON Want to look years younger? Drivers urged to Banish fine lines and wrinkles. Permanent laser hair removal. Micro-current facelift used by celebs! share journeys Laser Tattoo removal CAR-sharing initiatives are to be Some 84% of households in the Treatments from £20 encouraged in Maidstone to help borough have at least one car, com- Modern friendly Maidstone salon. reduce the volume of traffic on pared with 80% averaged across Free consultation the roads. Kent and 74% across England. Christmas pamper packages & gift vouchers now available Maidstone has one of the highest The heavy reliance on a small rates of single occupancy car use in number of key junctions – espe- 01622 752549 Kent, with 52% of journeys made cially in the town centre – means 62 Lower Stone St. Maidstone ME15 6NA by the driver alone. Maidstone is vulnerable when ac- Allurelasersalon Kent County Council already cidents occur on the motorway or manages “kentjourneyshare”, a events such as Operation Stack free web-based service which links come into the equation. drivers, passengers and taxi users Maidstone Council has two pool

NEWTO MAIDSTONE who make similar journeys and en- cars and two pool bikes for use by courages them to share their trips. its staff, but reports that usage is It also manages the “New Ways very low compared with similar Stockists of lingerie 2 Work” scheme to encourage sus- schemes elsewhere in the UK. tainable travel choices. A number of KCC employees Even so, figures obtained from use Zipcar – a short-term car hire •Club wear the 2011 census revealed that service – to get to and from work 50,131 people – 44.3% of Maid- and two cars are based at County •Adult toys stone’s population – drove a car to Hall, with another located in work, 8% (9,023) walked and 4.6% Church Street, which are available ...and much more! (5,257) used the train. A further to members of the public who sign 31% were not in work and 4.2% up to the Zipcar scheme. Opening times: 10am - 6pm Mon-Sat (4,705 people) worked from home. The 2011 census shows that 15% Only 0.8% cycled to work, 0.5% of trips to work in Maidstone are rode a motorcycle or scooter and 2km or less – walkable for most 01622 296966 2.6% travelled by bus or coach. people – yet only 8% of people opt Maidstone has very high levels to walk. 43A UNION STREET, MAIDSTONE of car ownership and usage com- “This offers great potential for pared with other parts of the coun- increasing walking, if the environ- try, says a report to the council. ment is right,” it concludes.

New homes the first of many THE first Maidstone development has been completed by the Heart of Medway Housing Association. Representatives from the company – part of the mhs homes group – are pictured at the topping-out ceremony of the one- and two-bedroom apartments on the site of the former Maidstone Council offices in Tonbridge Road. The apartments for affordable rent and shared ownership have been built by The Chartway Group with a £533,000 grant from the Homes and Communities Agency. They are part of a £37m investment in new homes by mhs homes across Kent this financial year. Gary Clark, operations director at mhs homes, said the homes were the first of seven developments it expects to finish in Maidstone by the end of 2016. The other sites are on the Maidstone Barracks car park, at Langley Park, Eccleston Road, Fairmeadow, Imperial Park and Hermitage Lane. Future of prison is unclear THE Ministry of Justice says it is un- Maidstone and the area’s able to confirm whether Maidstone women’s prison, East Sutton Park Prison will close under plans to shut meet this criteria, but a Department some of the country’s oldest jails. of Justice spokesman said while The prison rebuilding pro- nine new sites had been identified, gramme announced by Chancellor only Reading had been announced George Osborne and Justice Secre- for closure. tary Michael Gove will “close Victo- He added: “I can’t comment on rian relics of the past on prime sites the situation in Maidstone because in city centres”, replacing them with what we close will depend on the nine detention centres. needs of the prison estate.”

26 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Assault case A MAIDSTONE man has appeared Hospice’s three-year in court after an outburst in the town in which he smashed a win- dow, hit another drinker in a High Street pub and two police officers. plan to improve care Nathan Vallis (24) appeared at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Court where he was ordered to do 180 hours of AN ambitious three-year strategy they can apply the same standards unpaid work in the next 12 months. has been launched by the Heart of in residential homes in the area. He admitted causing criminal dam- Kent Hospice to expand and en- The hospice has developed a close age, assault and two counts of as- hance the service it provides. working relationship with the saulting officers at Maidstone The strategy, outlined by chief Loose Valley Care Centre, where Police Station. executive Sarah Pugh (pictured) in manager Marisa Spice is anxious Vallis, from Gravelly Bottom the charity’s annual review, identi- that her residents receive the best Road, must also pay £425 compen- fies three key areas to take the hos- end-of-life care. sation, a £150 criminal courts pice forward. Of the £5m needed to run the charge and a £60 victim surcharge. These are: hospice for a year, 28% comes from  Innovating – to reach out to more voluntary and fundraising income, people in more ways with more 25% from its charity shops, 21% Thief in court services; from gifts in wills and trusts, 20% A MAN who stole an electric tooth-  Investing – in the workforce, staff tablished, the hospice has seen a in grants, 5% from NHS England brush worth £216 from Sainsbury’s and volunteers to increase income; steady increase in the number of and a small amount from invest- in Romney Place, Maidstone, was  Influencing – end-of-life care in dementia patients and their fami- ment income. given a suspended prison sentence. the wider community by strength- lies coming forward for end-of-life A total of 28% more patients were Andrew Caskie (48) from ening relationships with other support – 75% more than previ- referred to the hospice for end-of- Rochester, appeared at West Kent health care workers. ously. life care during 2014 and the hos- Magistrates’ Court where he ad- During the year, the hospice ap- The nurse not only works with pice now supports about 40% of all mitted going equipped for theft pointed its first head of outreach the patients nearing the end of their patients in the area who die from a and shoplifting. He had a Stanley and first head of education and de- life, but also their families and car- life-limiting illness. knife for use in connection with velopment. It also appointed a wel- ers who have to struggle with their Mrs Pugh said: “We would like to theft. Magistrates sentenced Caskie fare adviser to help patients and day-to-day care. thank everyone who supported the to 80 days in prison, suspended for their families access welfare entitle- The hospice’s education and de- hospice this year. Providing excep- two years. He must also pay a £180 ments, easing the financial worry of velopment team has already begun tional end-of-life care to patients criminal courts charge, £85 costs coping with a terminal illness. influencing end-of-life care in the and their families in our local com- and an £80 victim surcharge. Most significantly, it also created community and offers courses to munity who need it most is only Read the Downs Mail online a new role of dementia nurse spe- teach care workers the methods possible with your continued and at www.downsmail.co.uk cialist and, since the post was es- and skills used in the hospice so generous support.” FREE         Wishing you a      Merry Christmas & a Happy 2016   Here at The Stone Tile Warehouse our comprehensive range of products are especially sourced to offer excellent value. Expert advice and installation service available

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 27 downsmail.co.uk Comment Local tax to support our NHS WE cherish our “free” NHS health service Wobbly welfare – but know it is far from totally free, becomes Mail less free and will cost us more in future. Marks What a pity MP for Chatham and Ayles- We have long accepted most opticians’ and DENNIS FOWLE President ford (also Minister of Sport) Tracey Crouch dentists’ work is charged … heavy costs of was advised to apologise for saying the cost parking at hospitals … payment for prescrip- [email protected] of subscription television should not be tion drugs… counted when considering the level of state Government is now authorising a 2% in- support our local hospitals or to finance im- benefits. crease in council tax if ring-fenced to social provements in our seriously under-perform- That should have been the starter for a care. This is closely driven by pressures on the ing local ambulance service? very long list. I believe it should include NHS, especially hospital bed-blocking, a Is the time close when Government will overseas holidays, cars, mobile phones and shortage of nursing home places and care in want us to pay a fee for GP appointments, a iPads etc … friends suggest many more. the community. contribution towards surgery we elect to un- In Britain today, welfare ensures a fairer After watching Government and the local dertake (eg replacement knees or hips), hear- and more compassionate society. Govern- NHS and social care economies and councils ing aids, preventive care, and hospital meals? ment now has a responsibility to try to struggle through desperately difficult finan- It is political dynamite, of course, but politi- achieve a living standard below which no re- cial years I have no serious problem with cians know the financial truth and at some sponsible people should fall. these charges if they truly protect the health stage they will have to reveal courage to sus- The world has moved on since I experi- service and social care. tain a health service under such pressure from enced my parents and other members of that One advantage of charging through Coun- increasing demands and costs and a rapidly- family having to consider so carefully how cil Tax is that generally the heavier cost will growing and ageing population. every penny was spent to avoid the despair fall on those best able to pay. As a Band G Calls on the Government purse are im- of poverty. council tax payer I expect I need to find about mense. One way or another we are going to I recall how my new pair of school shoes another £5 a month. have to pay more to retain a high-quality was considered an exciting luxury. But I still Now Government is taking this council tax health service. Just look at what residents of look back on mostly very happy days. route I anticipate other charges will follow. most other countries pay – and grit your Many are convinced that Tracey Crouch For instance, could another 1% be added to teeth! got it spot on.

Badgers were there first Whether the construction of Fremlin EFA does not build schools, there will Walk was actually necessary is a maer of definitely be a shortage of places. It’s not Dear Sir - I think Dennis Fowle (Mail conjecture, but entry into the car park could rocket science. Marks, December) is being unfair to have been made available from Faith Street Objections to the application came from badgers. via Station Road, an area which is now councillors and residents of Fant. They Does he not think it is he who is virtually disused by vehicles. were listened to politely and just ignored. encroaching on their land? It is always the A similarly barren area is the top end of the The highways department fulfilled its human that is right and all the wild animals High Street which supports few shops and usual role of not objecting to the application that are wrong. a vast expanse of expensive paving, as “there would be no significant impact on You only have to look around to see how presumably designed mainly for the the local infrastructure envisaged”. much countryside is being used up for congregation of late-night revellers, who We residents now await a further housing to know why he is being invaded. appear to be the main category of application at the earliest opportunity from I know it is annoying, but what about individuals the county town has sought to the school to extend it to its original wish cats? A lot of people where I live go off to aract for the past 20 years. for a two-form entry school, with 420 work and put their cats out and it is they In view of the limited number of major pupils. The presumption will be in favour who ruin gardens. shops and stores in this area of the town, of it, as the planning commiee will not P Durant, Flood Hatch, Tovil surely it would also make sense to reopen fight against it on behalf of our community the High Street to all vehicles in order to or on the behalf of common sense. alleviate the congestion caused by If they want a planning reason, here is a Re-open High Street channeling traffic around peripheral roads clear one. In 1997, when Gatland House Dear Sir - With reference to your article on that are unable to cope with it. was given planning permission for its the proposed new traffic system (Edition no Ron Carr, by email previous use as a health facility, the 223) the comments and proposals of Carlo decision notice stated: “The premises/land Aubato are entirely correct. may be used for clinical centre for child and Every main road leading out of The death of democracy adolescence services only and for no other Maidstone has a set or sets of traffic lights Dear Sir – A very sad thing has happened – purpose (including any other purposes in which inhibit the flow of traffic out of the democracy has died. class D1 [educational use such as schools]). town and which could be eliminated by the The planning application for a change of Reason: unrestricted use of the property provision of footbridges or in other cases use to a class D1 at Gatland House was would not be in the interests of the locality. such as The Wheatsheaf, a roundabout. approved. Barbara Skinner, Fant An example of inconceivable planning The planning commiee as always was the construction of the Fremlin Walk squirmed around the issue with only one car park next to the dual carriageway along thought. If it went to appeal, they would Cafe dog ban annoying Fairmeadow. The carriageway was have to pay the costs. A message, in the Dear Sir – Regarding your article on Cobtree originally developed to ease traffic flow but form of an unseen update, advised them Manor Park, I am also amazed that dogs are is now restricted by numerous traffic lights that there would be a shortfall of school banned from the cafe there. and is often congested by traffic queuing to places. That’s funny - if you keep leing The thing that annoys me most is that it is enter the car park. greedy developers build houses and the claimed it is for hygiene reasons, but in the Contact our team ... Stephen Eighteen Diane Nicholls Jane Shotliff Dawn Kingsford Editor Assistant editor Journalist Journalist [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233 01622 734735 ext 233

28 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk next few words it says “except for guide Michael Lilewood, by email opinion whilst seemingly ignoring expert dogs”. We will ensure your views are taken into evidence. Comment What can an ordinary pet bring in from account in our consideration of the introduction The subject of Tony’s experience and outside that guide dogs can’t? of parking charges for Mote Park – both in your qualifications was covered during his cross- People who walk their dogs regularly view of the process that we are undertaking and examination at the inquiry. Tony was asked make sure they are properly trained and are the principle of charging. whether he was an “enthusiastic amateur” clean and well-behaved. Response from Alison Broom, chief without formal qualifications in a particular I would never leave my dog outside. I executive of Maidstone Council subject and he agreed that he was. used to go on holidays with her and most I would appreciate it if you would put the seaside cafes would let her in and she record straight in the next edition as your would always sit under my chair. Sacrifice remembered article rather unfairly suggests rudeness on P Durant, Flood Hatch, Tovil Dear Sir – In a world which once again is in my part. turmoil and unrest we should, at the 100th Nick Yandle, chief executive, Gallagher anniversary of her death, pause and reflect Group Push for a bypass on the life and work of nurse Edith Cavell. Dear Sir – I read with disbelief comments We should remember her heroic sacrifice, made by KCC leader Paul Carter, who her heroism, her fortitude and her humanity complains that Maidstone is one of the most in her work and life. She, with many others, congested towns in the South East, and is fought the typhoid epidemic that came to building too many houses and states that it Maidstone in the summer of 1897. sometimes takes him 15 minutes to get off In 1915 she again rose to the challenge his drive! and worked tirelessly for the wounded from Is this the same Cllr Paul Carter who is all sides, during what is now known as the supposed to have Kent Highway Services Great War (World War I) and paid for her under his control? duty with her life. KHS never seems to object to any At a memorial service in London it was planning application for housing in said: ”The crowning horror of the treatment Maidstone and its lack of objection was of womanhood is the atrocious murder of recently stated by a government inspector this woman, who lived to alleviate suffering as one of the reasons for allowing housing and who only did what any one of us off Cripple Street (overlooking the Loose would have done in saving the lives of Supporting Mencap Valley), despite this area of South refugees who sought shelter of a home.” Dear Sir – One of the pleasures of being an Maidstone suffering from appalling traffic As we commemorate the anniversary of MP is that I get the chance to see for myself congestion. her death we should remember her the work of local charities, and when If Cllr Carter really thinks that housing supreme sacrifice and how she has set the needed, lend support. development in Maidstone should slow world an example of how we should bear Last week, I visited Maidstone Mencap, down, he should exercise proper control ourselves in a crisis. which supports people with learning over his own officers and also push for the We should remember and reflect on her disabilities and is itself in need of support construction of the long-awaited words given in the few hours before her from the community. Leeds/Langley bypass. execution. I turned up in the middle of morning Malcolm Luxton, Chestnut Street, Borden “Patriotism is not enough – I must have playgroup and was invited to join in with a no hatred or bierness towards anyone.“ Christmas card-making session. Squeezing Cllr David Picke, Bower Street into one of those lile nursery chairs, I Parking at park a done deal helped an enthusiastic three-year-old Dear Sir –A document was placed in my assemble her card. There were felt-tip pens, mailbox this week entitled "Consultation on Town losing identity fluff, glue and googly eyes, but just like my a proposal to introduce car park charges in Dear Sir – The concern of Maidstone people own daughter, her favourite thing was the Mote Park". After reading, it was clear that over the mass housing projects now under glier. this is not a consultation document or a way and the astonishing neglect of the My visit coincided with playgroup, but proposal. inevitable infrastructure problems which Maidstone Mencap provides services for The document is a missive stating what will follow is very well-founded. individuals of all ages who have special Maidstone Council has already decided will In addition, Maidstone is visibly losing its needs. There’s also a youth club with table happen, what the parking fees will be, the unique identity as a real county town and football, pool and a summer barbecue for times they will apply and when they will the ancient capital of Kent. teenagers; and regular bingo nights, quizzes come into operation, without council tax If it is not to become just another and outings for seniors. payer consultation in any form whatsoever. suburban mass of housing, cars, choked They have special equipment including a I believe Maidstone Council is again looking roads and mile-long traffic jams, central sensory room and expert staff, as well as to use the motorist as a cash cow, using government pressure for yet more and more commied volunteers. every excuse in the book to try to justify the bricks and mortar must be resisted. The volunteers do brilliant work and the charge. If it is not, real places like Otham, service gives carers a much-needed break. Needless to say, I am against parking fees Bearsted, Boughton Monchelsea and Loose One mother told me her child had loved the of any kind in Mote Park. The park is there will exist only in memory. playgroup when she was younger and had for the enjoyment of all townspeople, paid G French, Marion Crescent, Maidstone thrived as a result. Although her child is for in their council tax. now at a mainstream school, she continues Regarding town centre parking and the to volunteer for the charity as a way of park and ride, Maidstone town centre shops Not my words giving back. and restaurants are always complaining Mencap’s building, Cobtree Hall, is an old Dear Sir – Regarding your front page story church on the edge of Mote Park. It’s a about loss of business to out-of-town malls. “New challenge to M20 J8 snub”. May I suggest that Maidstone Council lovely spot, particularly in summer when It is a prey good summary of my the children can play outside, but the seriously investigates scrapping parking telephone discussion following a call from fees in the town and park and ride fees? building is in desperate need of repair. The your reporter. There is, however, one detail lift is broken and the roof needs to be fixed. This will then offer shoppers what the out- that is incorrect. of-town malls offer their customers. Andrew Wells, the charity’s president, It was not me who, to use your term, told me the repairs will cost about £100,000. It could be tried for a period of say, one “labelled” Cllr Tony Harwood “a self- year, and if successful, extended. I am of the I’ll be supporting the charity in its campaign confessed enthusiastic amateur”. I merely to raise the money, and I encourage you to belief that the additional shoppers it would mentioned something that was covered in aract would more than compensate for the get involved too. Visit the public inquiry in explaining to your maidstonemencap.org to find out how you loss of fees. Maidstone Council would reporter one aspect of why we were aract more business rates and the empty can help. appealing the decision, ie the inspector Helen Whately, MP for Faversham and Mid shops in the town centre would disappear – appearing to put weight on Cllr Harwood’s a win-win situation. Kent

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 29 News downsmail.co.uk Gay pub wins Foster carer rewarded for years of dedication A MAIDSTONE woman has been re- “Foster carers do an amazing job. a late licence warded for her outstanding contri- Now more than ever we need to bution to fostering in Kent. show our foster carers how much we A LATE night licence has been Debbie Preston-Mcleod and her appreciate them. These awards are granted to Maidstone’s only gay partner Daniel, from Loose have a wonderful way to celebrate the in- pub, despite objections from neigh- been fostering since May last year. dividuals and their families making a bours. They have four children aged be- difference to a child’s life. Maidstone Council’s licensing tween six and 13 and one fostered “With the extra pressure we have sub-committee agreed that the pub boy aged four, who has now been on all staff in our children’s services in Sittingbourne Road could stay with them for more than a year. He due to the increased amount of un- open, play music and serve alcohol has multi-sensory impairments and accompanied asylum-seeking chil- until 3am on Friday and Saturday complex medical needs. dren coming into Kent, we nights, closing its doors to customers Debbie said: “The children dote on desperately need more people to at 3.30am. Previously, the pub had and his business partner, Terry Far- him and include him in everything. consider fostering a child. More fam- closed at 1.30am during the week, rell, offering it solely to Mr Farrell. They think about him and make sure ilies are needed in Kent for children with entertainment ending at However, regulars have signed a pe- he’s happy in every situation, it’s with disabilities and learning diffi- 11.30pm. tition in support of Mr Hall and lovely to watch.” culties, some of whom have complex The owners, Admiral Taverns Ltd, hope he can be reinstated. Debbie decided to foster after needs, to give them the chance of a successfully applied to vary the The Queen Anne has DJ nights, spending 14 years working in a chil- better future.” premises licence of the pub. karaoke, live music, drag acts and its dren’s hospice. Foster carers can be single, in a More than 25 local residents ob- own version of the X Factor – The Q She said: “At first, a couple of chil- long-term relationship, with or with- jected to the application, citing pub- Factor. Regulars were looking for- dren came to us for respite care on out children and do not need to own lic nuisance and potential crime and ward to Christmas celebrations and weekends and holidays. Then we did their own home. They need a spare disorder. a New Year’s Eve prom. long-term respite, so that our own room and the determination and un- There are 50 retired and elderly Business development manager children could get used to having derstanding to make life better for residents in nearby Friars Court in Cathy Button said: “Our focus is on other children in the house.” vulnerable children. Queen Anne Road, most of whom ensuring a sustainable future for the Debbie was among 22 carers pre- To find out more about fostering, signed a petition opposing the Queen Anne as a pub at the heart of sented with a certificate for their out- visit www.kentfostering.co.uk change. its community. standing contributions to Kent’s Debbie said: “I’m so glad we did Landlord of the pub since January "We thank Ron for the work he has fostering service. this. Sometimes, in the beginning, has been Ron Hall, but it emerged at put into the Queen Anne and hope Philip Segurola, director of special- you feel as if you’re wading through the meeting that the brewery has that the local community will con- ist children’s services at KCC said: toffee but it’s so worth it.” taken the licence away from Mr Hall tinue to support Terry.” FREE FITTING ON SELECTED CARPETS 100’s of carpet Weekly FREE payment rolls to clear MEASURING scheme from £10 each SERVICE available

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30 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk News Woman ‘ordered to kill family’ A CONTROLLING and manipulative man from Maidstone accused of ordering a woman to kill her family has been detained indefinitely under the Mental Health Act. When armed police arrested 57- firearms. He was convicted follow- family, saying if she did not, he “The fact Chu was found with a year-old Hon Cheong Chu at his ing a trial at Maidstone Crown would harm someone close to her. number of loaded weapons in his home in Tarragon Road they found Court. Following his arrest on March 26 possession proved just how impor- four handguns, a bolt-action rifle, The jury heard how on one occa- 2014, officers seized ammunition tant it was to take every precaution two air weapons and a single-bolt sion in 2008 Chu became upset be- and firearms, three of which were necessary in taking him safely into firearm. cause the woman was talking loaded. custody. The jury heard he had been in a about her family with pride. He or- Investigating officer Detective “Chu is clearly a dangerous man controlling and abusive relation- dered her to take off her glasses be- Constable Christopher Waterfall and I am pleased he will now serve ship with his victim for many fore slapping her across the face. said: “Hon Cheong Chu is a ma- a lengthy period in a mental health years, and was described as the In November 2013 he punched nipulative man who controlled his institution where he is no longer a “emperor” of the house. her in the face and kicked her after victim over many years, to the ex- risk.” Following the raid on his home, another disagreement. However, tent that his threat to harm some- He praised Chu’s victim who, he he was charged with offences in- the situation escalated in March one close to her if she did not kill said “showed great courage in cluding soliciting murder, assault last year, when Chu ordered her to her own family was one she did speaking out and ensuring he was and possession of ammunition and return to Hong Kong to kill her not take lightly. brought to justice”. Higher fines Opera raises £11,000 for hospice for dog mess A FESTIVAL concert featuring one of MAIDSTONE Council is poised to Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular impose the toughest fines the law comic operas raised £11,000 for will allow on irresponsible dog Heart of Kent Hospice. owners and litter bugs. A choir of 150 singers, led by Maid- As we went to press, councillors stone Choral Union, sang HMS were expected to approve a £5 rise Pinafore at Maidstone’s Mote Hall to in fixed penalty fines for those a packed and appreciative audience. caught dropping litter, not clearing The choir’s music director, Martin up after their dogs and letting them Hindmarsh, led the choir and orches- run in gated parks reserved for tra while Dr Colin Morris directed the children. 10 performers who sang the individ- The council says the increase in ual parts. Dr Morris, a distinguished fines to £80 – the maximum per- Gilbert and Sullivan performer, also mitted under the Clean Neigh- played the part of Sir Joseph Porter. bourhood and Environment Act An audience of more than 500 2005 – will further reduce litter and watched the performance, including The concert was part of Voices for Maidstone Choral Union has led fouling in the borough’s parks and the Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Daniel Hospices, a world-wide event held the event for Heart of Kent Hospice open spaces. Moriarty and Cllr David Pickett, Maid- every two years to raise funds for hos- since Voices for Hospices began in A report to the council’s commu- stone Choral Union’s new president. pices. 1991. nities, housing and environment committee, which was due to con- sider the issue on December 8, added: “Our Dog Watch campaign Christmas has assisted with the enforcement of dog fouling within the borough. The introduction of higher fines, Carol retold we believe, will further deter those CHARLES Dickens’ best- current offenders who form a small loved and most heart-warming irresponsible minority of dog-own- story, A Christmas Carol, is to ers in the borough.” be recreated by Hazlitt-based Private company Kingdom has European Arts Company at held the contract to enforce litter 7.30pm on Friday, December 18. controls in the borough since 2011 The story was Dickens’ first and since then has issued nearly public reading and also his last. 19,000 fixed penalty fines. If ap- He performed it more than 150 proved, the new £80 fines will times and said after the first come into force from April 1. Children’s festive concert night: “The success was most wonderful and prodigious – KENT County Junior Choir and Andy Millest, Ciara Considine perfectly overwhelming and as- Fewer deaths Kent County Junior Singers will and Karen Hill. tounding altogether!” A SIGNIFICANT improvement in perform festive songs and carols at Liz Samson, who manages the The story will be performed mortality rates has been reported All Saints’ Church, Maidstone at choirs for Kent Music, said: “It’s a at the Hazlitt’s Exchange Studio by NHS West Kent Clinical Com- 5.30pm on Sunday, December 13. great chance for children aged by John O’Connor and directed missioning Group. This could be Tickets are £8 (£5 concessions) eight to 15, who are developing by Peter Craze, the team behind due to management of long-term on the door and the audience is in- their love of music, to sing to- The Trials of Oscar Wilde and conditions such as cardiovascular vited to join in with the carols. gether, make new friends and per- The Picture of Dorian Gray, disease and breathing difficulties For more details visit form in inspiring venues.” both of which have transferred (COPD). www.kent-music.com or call New members are invited to au- to the West End. 01622 358402. dition in the New Year; details can Tickets are £13.50 (£11.50 for The choirs draw members from be found at www.kent-music.com concessions) from www.ha- For more local news across the county and will be con- or call Valerie Cordina on 01622 zlitttheatre.com. www.downsmail.co.uk ducted by leading voice coaches 358402.

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 31 downsmail.co.uk Jordana Carr the history of the family back to the 1800s. moved to Maidstone in 1962. Obituaries “As a student he worked in a Lyons Keith was promoted to consultant and THE sudden death of Jordana Carr (35) at Coffee House. He loved jazz and choral was involved in the design of the her home in Pla stunned all of those who music and enjoyed collecting records and pathology department at the new knew the special needs co-ordinator and hearing music live.” Maidstone Hospital. When there was a gap teacher for Kent County Council. Ron – who was widowed six years ago – in expertise, he stepped in and performed She worked locally leaves his children, grandchildren Ellio, postmortem examinations for the Coroner’s at the Cedars pupil Dale, Georgia, James and Gabriella and a Court. referral unit in Bower number of family members including a Heather said: “My father’s hobbies Mount Road, brother who lives locally. included building electronic equipment, Maidstone. photography and car maintenance. He Jordana – a mother continued learning throughout his life – he – was pronounced Joe Bisgin studied computing with the Open dead after emergency MAIDSTONE’S Joe Bisgin (30) was praised University when it was still a fledgling services were called field, learned scuba diving, how to play the to her home by for his funny and kind-hearted qualities. The roofer and father of four, who grew up clarinet, and how to navigate a boat. someone concerned “But more than this he was kind, caring, for her welfare. in Tovil, was found dead near the River Len on a footpath beneath Wat Tyler Way a quiet sort of man who remained fiercely Her friends have poured their shock and independent. He always thought of Derby grief into social media tributes. Wendy in Maidstone. He had been as his home, keeping an eye on the fortunes Reynolds wrote: “Such a beautiful of Derby County. He watched them win wonderful friend, love u so very much, we diagnosed with a severe personality the FA Cup in 1946, though he also became had some funny times together, you always a Spurs supporter whilst he was in made me smile and brightened up my day, disorder in December 2014. A fundraising London.” I'll miss u so much my lile star, you were Keith leaves two daughters, two one in a million.” page to help with “Big Joe’s Farewell” grandchildren and two great- Having recently completed a year of grandchildren. teacher training, Jordana had distinguished has been established herself as a passionate teacher with a flair on Gofundme and for inspiring youngsters and a consistent friends and family Paul Cox creativity in developing ideas for use in her have paid tribute to Joe online. Natalie Hollywell Shane Saunders posted: “R.I.P work. Her colleagues at the Cedars also FORMER Maidstone borough councillor Joe he will be missed by loads of people spoke of their grief and shock. (1963-66), businessman and leading member send my love to family and kids x” of local service clubs, Paul Cox has died aged Joe and partner Natalie Watson had been 78, after two years of illness. together for five years and had two Ronald Knight Educated at Kent College, Canterbury, children, three year old Joe and two year Paul followed his Na- RONALD “Ron” Knight (79), who has died old Macie. Joe Bisgin had also raised tional Service by join- in Lytham St Anne’s, Lancashire, grew up Natalie’s daughter Grace as his own and ing the TA as a in Tovil and was educated locally. was father to a son from a previous captain and later He left the area to do national service and relationship. then studied aeronautical engineering at transferred to the UK UCL in London. Warning and Moni- He went on to work at English Electric Dr Keith Carter toring Organisation (subsequently British situated in an under- Aerospace) as an Dr KEITH Carter (89), who lived in ground building be- estimator, based in Barming from 1962, was well known locally hind Brachers Lancashire. from years of work in local hospitals. (solicitors) in London Ron was married to Raised in Lileover, Derby, Keith went Road, Maidstone. Janet for 46 years and on to study medicine at Kings College, His career turned to general building was father to where his wartime duties included construction, quantity surveying and Christopher and firewatching from the roof. He also joined estimating. His love of boats saw him buy Joanne. Joanne said: the college swimming team, following a Tovil Bridge Boat Yard in 1968, selling it 10 “My father was a passion he pursued into his 70s. years later to buy a partnership in C&C very loving family After completing his degree, Keith Plant Hire. man, who always put us first and usually gained registrar experience in a variety of He joined Lions International (1962-76) described himself as a British Aerospace posts, meeting wife of 62 years, June, who and was president in 1967/68. In 1981 he man. He loved his work and was very worked as a lab technician at Ashford joined the Rotary Club of Maidstone, involved with his workmates outside the Hospital in Middlesex. serving as secretary for three years and workplace. Keith completed national service with the president in 1993/94. He aended Holy “He loved fell walking and helped to RAF in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) and Cross Church, Bearsted, serving as church organise the British Aerospace fell-walking returned to Redhill, Surrey, where warden and chairman of the Fabric club for a number of years, often visiting daughters Heather and Jill, were born. Commiee. the Lake District. After retiring at the age of After several different postings, he was Paul was a keen sportsman with an 56 he kept himself active and had traced then appointed to a permanent post at emphasis on tennis, golf, bowls, swimming Preston Hall Hospital, and the family and skiing and was a founder member and later chairman and president of Bearsted Tennis Club. Camrass Wills He married Pauline Barden, daughter of Advice you can trust The Stone Shop Do you want help writing your Will? Do you need help with probate? Memorials. Any natural stone supplied, lettered and installed anywhere. Do you need powers of attorney? Do you want to buy a funeral plan? Inscriptions added to existing memorials • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed Renovations and memorial cleaning For a free initial consultation contact: Peter Camrass DipPFS Aff.SWW The Stone Shop 01622 720985 Station Hill, East Farleigh, Kent. www.camrasswills.co.uk 01622 726633

32 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone builder Percy Barden (for Fred leaves behind a loving family and condolences at this very sad time to her whom he worked for 17 years) and they will be greatly missed. family. We all were very stunned to hear Obituaries had a son Martin (now a borough this news and still can’t believe that it has councillor) in 1966. Pauline died of really happened. leukaemia in 1976. They started the Barbara Lewis "During this difficult time, our thoughts Maidstone Leukaemia Research Fund, BARBARA Lewis (86) lived locally from are with Roz’s parents Margaret and Les, which Paul and his second wife Carry 1967, in Poplar Grove, Bower Mount Road and her brother Alex, who is also a former continued. (where she lived for about 40 years) and BLSC member.” He is survived by Carry, Martin and Barming. Roz leaves her mother Margaret, father grandchildren Amelia and Benjamin. Born Barbara Fitch Les and older brother Alex. in Surrey, she married Ron Lewis, a Doris Abne senior probation Muriel Webb DORIS Abne (88) lived in Allington, officer, and the MURIEL Webb (94), who died in Bexhill- Wateringbury and Barming. couple moved to on-Sea, lived from 1964 to 1980 in Born Doris Turner in Hackney, London, Maidstone after a Willington Street, Maidstone. she moved to Kent with her parents, stay in Paddock Born in Gloucestershire, she moved to relocating to Royal British Legion Village Wood. Maidstone from Orpington with solicitor where she married They had children husband Ronald (Ron) and their three sons mechanic Tom Nicholas, Elizabeth, Tony, Peter and Paul. Abne, from Joanna and Rosemary and Barbara worked Larkfield, in 1947. at Fine Fare’s depot in Aylesford and for Muriel worked as a school secretary at The couple raised the Inland Revenue at Medvale House. Molehill Copse School and was an active children Graham, Joanna said: “My mother was very member of her local WI. Christine and Julie. involved in local clubs and activities. She Her son Peter said: “My mother was Tom worked for Fine was a member of the antiques club and the gregarious and outgoing, she loved Fair on Hall Road, local supper club and after moving to socialising and was a keen gardener and Aylesford and Doris’s Barming she quickly joined the WI, the knier. She was a devoted mother and work included historical society and the horticultural grandmother.” employment in the Carlton Cafe – on the society. She was really interested in history Widowed in 1994, Muriel leaves her current site of a British Heart Foundation and she and my father were members of three sons, five grandchildren, and a great- shop in the centre of Maidstone – and at a the National Trust for many years. She granddaughter. cake shop; Icing on the Cake in Allington. also enjoyed travelling and died while on a Daughter Julie said: “My mother loved trip to Germany.” animals, her home and making and eating After leaving the Inland Revenue, Sylvia Hodgson cakes, she was really loving and devoted to Barbara worked as a volunteer for 20 THE death was announced of Sylvia her children and grandchildren.” years, serving as a hospital librarian and Hodgson (78), who was known locally as a also listening to children reading at St member of the congregations of Otham, Michael’s School. Loose and St Luke’s churches. Fred Hockey Widowed in 2011 shortly before her 50th A mother of three daughters, Sylvia’s FREDERICK “Fred” Hockey (84) lived wedding anniversary, Barbara leaves her work turning round the lives of young locally for most of his life, spending about children and grandchildren Francesca, men was also commended. Sylvia leaves 39 years in Allington. He also had homes George, Alex, Sam, Oliver and Greg. her daughters, five grandchildren and one in Gillingham, Staplehurst and Loose. great-grandson. He was best-known as the owner of The House of Carpets Rosalind Fuller business on the north ROSALIND “Roz” Fuller (24) of Fennel Ken Welch side of Maidstone Close, Barming was tragically killed in a KENNETH “Ken” Welch (81) lived locally High Street. The cycling accident while on holiday in for most of his life, moving to the business ran for Turkey. Maidstone area as a boy after being born decades and at An inquest, which opened and in Birchington. different times had adjourned on He spent about 30 years in Bannister outlets in Tonbridge November 10, heard Road, Penenden Heath and 20 years in and the Medway that Ms Fuller – who Vinters Park before moving to Norfolk in Towns, but the main was taking part in a centre and longest bike ride – made a 2012 to be near his daughter Gillian. running outlet remained in Maidstone. wrong turn and After national service in the RAF Ken Originally from London, Fred had ended up in a five- spent his career with the Treasurer’s previously lived in Sidcup before coming way junction where Department of Kent County Council, to the Maidstone area in 1962. He and his she was fatally working his way through promotions first wife June raised children Susan, Keith injured after colliding while remaining based in County Hall. He and Sharon. with a taxi. The and his wife Jean raised son Chris and Daughter Sue said: “My father was a accident occurred in the Turkish coastal daughter Gillian. loving and hands-on dad who gave us a town of Kas. Gillian said: “My father was a keen great childhood. He made sure our early Roz completed an apprenticeship with sportsman, who spent years playing years, including holiday-camp holidays, Network Rail and at the time of her death cricket for the Corinthians Cricket Club. were full of fun and fancy dress was employed in the company’s He also played table tennis for the work- costumes.” telecommunications team, a role that ing men’s club in Brewer Street. He will be With second wife – also called June – involved the regular climbing of towers to remembered as a jovial man who liked a Fred gained step-children Stephen and complete maintenance work all over the cigaree and a brandy and had a lot of Graham. Sue said: “My dad’s main interest county. friends, with whom he really enjoyed was his and June’s garden where he would Roz was formerly from Gravesend and spending time. He loved travelling and spend his days. He loved being outside in was known in the local area from years of holidays and had been abroad supporting the sunshine. However, he and June also competitive swimming as part of the Black the England cricket team in the West loved dancing to the big band sounds of Lion Swimming Club (BLSC) in Indies. Glen Miller, Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey Gillingham. Their website has paid tribute Ken leaves his children, one surviving etc, mainly at Dion Community Centre.” to her. It said: "BLSC wishes its sincere sister and grandchildren Frances and Rebecca.

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

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 33 News downsmail.co.uk Village bypass ‘15 years away’ THE long-awaited Leeds-Langley bypass has hit yet another delay, with a suggestion that it might not be built until after 2031. Although councillors have of putting together its local plan – completed before any decisions Kingswood and Sutton Valence are pledged to seek funding for a relief of which the relief road is not a could be taken. suffering from high traffic volumes road to take traffic away from the part. “The borough council will work and gridlock. two villages and ease congestion on The first review of the plan will with the county council in identify- “This problem is already des- Sutton Road and Willington Street, not take place until 2022, when it ing the potential, as well as possi- tined to become worse by virtue of it could be another 15 years before might be considered for inclusion. ble timescales for such a scheme at existing and future development the wheels are set in motion. Kent County Council leader Paul the first review of the Maidstone being earmarked for this part of Maidstone Council’s draft inte- Carter told a recent meeting of the Borough Local Plan and determine Maidstone through the local plan- grated transport strategy suggests town’s Joint Transportation Board then whether the project should ning process. it could be feasible to build such a that he was hoping to find new move forward as a specific local “A Leeds-Langley relief road has relief road in south-east Maidstone ways of obtaining funding for the plan policy,” says the report. been long promised, but is now es- – but only after 2031. relief road – expected to cost more Leeds Parish Council has now sential to accommodate not only A report to the town’s policy and than £50m. launched an e-petition calling for current traffic volumes but also the resources committee said: “Kent But Maidstone Council leader urgent action, following news that huge increase that any further County Council will establish the Fran Wilson said there was still even more new houses are to be housing will impose. justification for and delivery of much work to be done before a built on Sutton Road. “Kent County Council must give such a project. road could be incorporated as a The petition can be found via the priority to the relief road and work “It is considered, that although policy. parish council’s website at with local partners to find the ex- further assessment is required, de- She said traffic modelling would www.leedskent.org.uk. ternal funding necessary to build livery of such a project may be fea- need to be carried out, as well as re- It states: “Maidstone South and it.” sible post-2031.” search into the environmental im- South East including Leeds, Lang- The e-petition is open for signa- The council is in the final stages pact, and a full cost analysis ley, Otham, Broomfield, tures until January 26. Salary error Empty Mall to be repaid space to help A MAIDSTONE woman who con- tinued to accept a salary from the start-up firms NHS despite quitting her course has VACANT space above The Mall been ordered to pay back more than shopping centre is to be put to work £9,000. helping start-up businesses. Natalie Davidson (41), of Hadlow Initially more than 12,000sqft will Close, enrolled on a community be devoted to the Maidstone Enter- nursing programme in September prise Centre facility, offering flexible 2012 but left four months later to workspace and offices. This will ex- find another job. tend the service offered by the En- She continued to be paid by Kent terprise Foundation at its centre in Community Healthcare NHS Trust Medvale House, on Mote Road, for a whole year – about £18,000 – which it reports was almost full in but failed to point out the mistake. Agent offers moving gesture less than 15 months after opening. The trust learned of Davidson’s The centre has been provided dishonesty in January 2014, and in LOCAL estate agent Ferris & Co is celebrating 35 years of buying, selling thanks to a collaboration of Capital November she received an eight- and letting property in Maidstone by giving away a luxury hamper filled and Regional, which runs The Mall, month suspended prison sentence with treats to all new tenants and buyers. and the national Enterprise Founda- after admitting retaining a wrongful The team at Ferris & Co aims to ensure that the moving experience is tion charity, which will run the serv- credit. as smooth and stress-free as possible for all its clients. ice. She has now been ordered to pay Owner Tim Ferris said: “I believe our continued success is down to our Keith Powney, the foundation’s back £9,092.75 after Kent Police ap- professional, experienced and loyal team.” chief executive, said: “There is a plied for a confiscation order under need for local businesses to have ac- the Proceeds of Crime Act. The cess to good quality workspace and money will be returned to the NHS. offices in a supportive environment. Financial investigator Jackie Low- Top rating for school kitchens We look forward to the new centre don of Kent Police said: “Natalie FUTURE Schools Trust has been served with a clean bill of health being a focus for ongoing entrepre- Davidson’s dishonesty caught up at all four of its schools. neur and business support project with her in the end and she must The Maidstone-based education provider hosted several unan- work.” now return a significant portion of nounced visits from Environmental Health and is delighted to an- Gareth Holland, retail asset man- the salary she had no right to claim.” nounce that each of its kitchens achieved a five-star rating. The most recent inspection took place at the trust's campus in ager for Capital & Regional said: Boughton Lane, Loose, where it runs New Line Learning Academy, “The arrival of The Enterprise Foun- dation at The Mall Maidstone will Charity quiz which also caters for Little Learners Nursery, and Tiger Primary further enhance the town centre in MAIDSTONE Macmillan School. Cornwallis Academy, in Hubbards Lane, Linton, had al- attracting young, creative and ambi- fundraising group is hosting a quiz ready been awarded the top mark at the start of November. night at the Grove Green Commu- tious businesses.” nity Hall on Saturday, February 27. A microsite for the centre with ad- Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm ditional information can be found at: start, and guests are invited to bring Man rescued Assault work maidstone.enterprisefoundation.net. their own drinks and nibbles. Tick- FIREMEN had to use hydraulic JIMMY Williams (28) was ordered Businesses interested in moving in ets are £5 per person, with up to cutting gear to free a man trapped to carry out 250 hours of unpaid the new Enterprise Centre should eight people in a team. To book a in his car following an accident at work after he admitted assaulting email Roy Laming, general manager table call Helene Poursain on just after 10am in Cambridge another man in Yalding’s Hamp- of the Enterprise Foundation at 07764503484 or email hpour- Crescent, Shepway, on Saturday, stead Lane, the road on which he [email protected] [email protected]. November 28. lives. He was billed £860 in costs. et or by calling 01622 757590.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 35 News downsmail.co.uk Private care for NHS patients GPs can now refer NHS patients to Kent’s newest private hospital for treatment. More than 200 NHS patients are waiting lists reach unmanageable Crouch, near Borough Green, this already booked in for a range of standards, helping to keep waiting is Mr James’ first real encounter treatments at the Kent Institute of times down for procedures such as with the Garden of England. Medicine and Surgery (Kims). hip and knee replacements. His home is near Basingstoke Kims became part of the NHS e- Mr James said: “I see us as an in- where his two sons, aged 11 and 15, referral system, formerly known as tegral part of the local health econ- are at school and his wife is the pri- Choose and Book, on September 1 omy. We are supporting it, not mary carer for her mother. and patients can opt for a range of competing with it.” Mr James came to Kims from The treatments to be carried out at the He added: “We have a popula- Manor Hospital, Oxford – one of Bearsted hospital, including gen- tion of two million people in Kent, Nuffield’s flagship centres. eral surgery, gynaecology, ophthal- who now have the option not to He said: “I managed to commute mology, orthopaedics and urology. travel to London, with all the time the 46 miles to Oxford, but 86 miles Not all areas of medicine are cov- and cost which is involved. each way on the worst road in the ered under the NHS e-referral “We can also offer jobs to nurses world [the M25] wasn’t an option, scheme and patients are asked to and people in the medical profes- so I stay here during the week.” check with their GPs. sion who would otherwise be fac- He describes running a hospital Chief executive Simon James ing a long commute to the city.” as “the best job in the world” and (pictured) said he was delighted When Kims opened, in April healthcare company make money was drawn to Kims by its unique with the uptake from both private 2014, at a cost of more than £100m, in its first year. It’s a business that position in the industry. and NHS patients. it boasted some of the best high- has to be resource-led, as you have “I wasn’t looking for a new job He said: “The hospital was built tech equipment and consultants in to recruit staff before you can take but I was captured by the dream. I in Kent for the people of Kent. We the country. in patients.” saw it as an opportunity to do want to draw people in and offer It has since carried out a number He now believes he can reach something different and to be part them a different opportunity. We of ground-breaking “firsts”, in- that target in year three. of that dream. Because Kims is in- are all about patient choice.” cluding open heart and keyhole He said: “It will be hard work, dependently owned, not one of the Kims has spot contracts with heart surgery. but it is achievable. We have had many big chains, we can be more three NHS trusts – Maidstone and There were expectations it would great support from the consultants, flexible. If people are thinking of Tunbridge Wells, Medway and East break even in the first year, but Mr which is really good.” coming to Kims, come and talk to Kent – which means all three can James said this was unrealistic. Although married in Kent in us. If it’s a question of cost, we will divert patients to Kims when their He said: “I have never seen a 1997, after a short spell living in talk to you and see if we can help.” Job vacancies Keyhole heart surgery a first for Kent KIMS threw open its doors to resi- HEART consultant Inderpaul Birdi covery was very important.” dents looking for a job at an em- has carried out Kent’s first-ever key- Leading heart specialist Dr Phyllis ployment fair. hole heart surgery at Kims. Holt, founder of Kims, said: “We are A range of vacancies are on offer The patient had severe aortic delighted Mr Birdi and his team car- for specialist clinical staff, includ- valve narrowing and it was decided ried out this procedure in Kent. To be ing staff nurses, a deputy theatre to repair the valve, rather than re- able to offer this level of consultant- manager, theatre and senior theatre place it, as the speed of recovery was led care to patients in Kent and to practitioners, theatre support important. Also, the heart does not provide them with a choice of where workers, a senior CT radiographer beat as well with a mechanical valve. and when their surgery takes place and care support workers. Keyhole surgery involves less were some of our key objectives Suzanne Stevens, recruitment bleeding and promotes quicker heal- when establishing the hospital.” manager at the hospital, said: “This ing than traditional open heart sur- The procedure was carried out by is a fantastic opportunity to move gery and Kims has a specialist team making a 2cm incision between ribs to a growing hospital. Kims is that delivers this and many other on the patient’s right side, just under unique in many of the services it of- groundbreaking heart procedures. surgery presently. For some patients the breast. A tiny camera was then fers.” Mr Birdi (pictured), who also runs traditional open heart surgery, which inserted and cords of Gore-Tex The Keyhole Heart Clinic in London is typically used to operate on this stitched into place to repair tendons and Essex, said: “Few centres in the condition, is not always the best op- so that the aortic valve flaps once Aiming high United Kingdom perform keyhole tion and in this case the speed of re- again closed properly. KIMS chief executive Simon James likes to lead by example. He can often be found running around the lanes of Bearsted and enjoys noth- ing more than hiking up a Scottish Advice to drivers as park and ride closes mountain or a Lakeland fell. MAIDSTONE Council has issued Sittingbourne Road long stay car per year. He has set himself a challenge to advice to drivers, following the park, which has spare capacity. “To increase this to cover higher climb all of Scotland’s 286 munroes news that its Sittingbourne Road Some residents can use the Ar- costs at one site would not offer – mountains above 3,000 feet – in 15 park and ride service will close on riva bus service 333 and the coun- taxpayers good value for money, years, including Scotland’s highest Monday, February 8. cil is encouraging bus companies and would require service cuts mountain, Ben Nevis. The council has been forced to to introduce services to meet exist- elsewhere,” he said. So far, he has managed 39 in give up the service because of the ing and future demand in the area. The council carried out a com- three years. escalating costs of leasing the land Cllr Burton said: “We are disap- prehensive search for alternative near Junction 7 of the M20. pointed that, despite negotiation, sites in the area before taking the Cllr David Burton, chairman of the increased cost to renew the decision to close the site, but high Women’s day the town’s transport committee, lease for the Sittingbourne Road land values meant that no viable THE hospital recently held a said he hoped commuters would park and ride site meant we could- alternative could be found. women’s health open day. There use one of the other park and ride n’t afford to maintain the service Cllr Burton stressed that the were free 15-minute consultations sites – at Willington Street or Lon- there.” council had no plans to close the with some of the hospital’s top con- don Road, accessible from Junc- The council has been subsidis- Willington Street and London sultants, on topics ranging from gy- tions 5 and 8 of the M20 – or the ing the site by more than £550,000 Road sites. naecology and varicose veins to cosmetic surgery.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 37 News downsmail.co.uk Scouts get £3,000 fayre boost MORE than £5,000 has been donated to local charities and organisations as a result of this year’s Bearsted and Thurnham Carnival and Fayre. The main beneficiary was Other organisations to receive Bearsted Scouts, who received a donations included: cheque for £3,000 towards essential Madginford Seniors; repairs to the Scout Hut at Church St Peter’s Busy Bee Pre-School; Landway, including a new kitchen Bearsted and Thurnham WI; and drainage works. Bearsted Cricket Club; The funds were raised at the Bearsted Girl Guides; Fayre in June, which celebrated the Roseacre Raiders 150th anniversary of Alice's Ad- Football Club; ventures in Wonderland. Madginford Park Estate Fayre chairman June Wilkins Football Club; said: “Once again, we had a very Bearsted Korfball Club; successful year, one of the best by Directions Performing Arts; far. The weather was on our side Thurnham Infants School; and we had a wonderful turnout of Maidstone Scout Gang Show; people and their families. The Young Lives Charity; fayre creates a wonderful commu- Maidstone Majorettes;  nity spirit which is what makes it Motor Neurone Disease This year's donation recipients so special.” Charity. Birthday girl Don’t undertake grier New minibus Elsie is 100 helps patients ELSIE Gurr from Maidstone has cel- lorries, drivers warned ebrated her 100th birthday. A NEW winter road safety cam- Drivers are being advised to only get to hospice The former housekeeper moved to paign is being rolled out in Kent pass a gritter when it is safe to do THE Heart of Kent Hospice has Kent from Mid- warning drivers they could be put- so, avoiding using the hard shoul- dlesex when she launched a new patient transport ting their lives at risk if they use der and checking for hazards service to enable more local patients was just a few the hard shoulder to undertake ahead. months old, fol- with a life-limiting illness to benefit gritting trucks. Tim Lyver, from Highways Eng- from the services provided. lowing the death Highways England’s gritter driv- land, said: “Our gritter drivers will of her mother, and Thanks to the arrival of a minibus, ers have noticed a growing prob- be out in all weathers this winter the hospice can now provide free her father remar- lem with road users veering into and we’re encouraging road users transport for patients needing to visit ried. One of two the hard shoulder to avoid being to do their bit to help keep the re- the hospice for outpatient appoint- girls, her family hit by salt. gion’s motorways and major A ments, day therapy and drop-in ses- also included Not only do the drivers of these roads moving. sions and the dementia cafe. seven half-sisters. vehicles risk colliding with station- “The vast majority of people sup- The minibus has been adapted to On leaving school Elsie worked as ary cars and lorries, but they also port our gritter drivers by keeping accommodate patients with mobility a housekeeper for a couple who cause hazards to gritters attempt- back a sensible distance and only problems, including wheelchair ac- lived in Chatham, and then Loose, ing to leave roads at junctions. passing when it’s safe to do so, but cess and specialised equipment such where she met her husband Bill. He The latest statistics show that, on a few have been putting them- as breathing apparatus. used to work in the grocery shop at average, 16 people lose their lives selves and others at risk by using Available five days a week, the the top of Cripple Street and would every year as a result of collisions the hard shoulder to undertake.” service will complement the volun- deliver to her workplace. on hard shoulders or in laybys Chief Inspector Amanda Tillot- teer drivers who give up their time The couple married in 1939 and across England, and 45 suffer a se- son from Kent Police, said: “Un- on a regular basis to take patients to lived in Bower Lane, Maidstone. rious injury. dertaking is always a dangerous and from the hospice in Aylesford. Their daughter Pat lives in the town. Gritters usually travel at 40mph manoeuvre regardless of the cir- This new patient transport service Son Adrian died in his 60s and son in the middle lane when they are cumstances and not only puts the has been funded by Coxheath-based Roger moved to Australia. spreading salt on a three-lane mo- driving doing it at real risk of a col- Westerhill Homes and The Big Lot- Elsie finally settled at Loose Court torway, treating the lane they are lision, but it also puts other road tery Fund, with contributions from residential home in March last year. in and one lane on either side. users at risk.” other trusts and foundations, as well She has four grandchildren and as parish councils. three great-grandchildren, who all Kerry Harrison, acting patient wished her well on her big day. Death in tent services director, said: “Many of our Empty shops patients have difficulty getting to the A HOMELESS man was found hospice as they live on their own MAIDSTONE town centre has dead in Maidstone in his tent near Safety chains with no access to public transport or slightly fewer empty shop the River Medway. SHOPPERS in Maidstone can avail are dependent on family and friends. units than it had six months Julian Boughton (46) was a famil- themselves of a free purse chain as “This can cause additional stress ago. iar figure in the town, accompanied the Christmas shopping season and anxiety for our patients and their There are 646 ground floor by his Staffordshire terrier, Dexter. gets underway. families, during what is already a units in the town centre, of He was a regular visitor at Maid- MaidSafe, the town’s crime re- difficult and challenging time.” which 18 are new businesses. stone Day Centre and on Tuesdays, duction partnership, is handing out The hospice has recently ap- However, 66 of the units are he went to the market in Barker the purse chains each Wednesday empty – making 10.2% of the pointed a transport coordinator to in The Mall. Street. His next of kin have been in- manage the new service, to ensure it total. In May, the figure was formed. The purse chains are, designed to 10.7%. meets the needs of local patients. Zofia Grzymala, manager at It is also looking to recruit more attach purses to handbags deter Maidstone Town Centre pickpockets. Maidstone Day Centre, described volunteer escorts to ensure that pa- Management’s Larry They will be available from 10am him as “an amazing guy” who tients have a comfortable journey. Williamson said that 49 of the to noon on the first floor of the cen- “was greatly loved by the whole For details go to www.hokh.org or units were virtually unlettable. tre, near BHS and Boots. homeless community”. call 01622 792200.

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 41 Classified downsmail.co.uk Plumbing & Heating cont. Roofing Services cont. Skip Hire

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42 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk Classified

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 43 Recruitment On the Road

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44 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 On the Road

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Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 45 downsmail.co.uk

the debris, which was why it was agreed were discussed. A strapline had been agreed

aihCouncils Parish Barming with Barry Plummer to burn it on site. – “Loose…a Place Apart”. Parking The chairman reported on the poor Members thanked Cllr Dow and the North Loose It was noted that the Spar shop parking by parents and carers on the school chairman for their prompt action in dealing had planning permission for a being shop, run that day. A bus or emergency vehicle with the complaints. A quote for £177 from a Domino’s pizza franchise and another would not have got through Beverley Road, Brook Security for repairing the lock on the takeaway. The parish council was also which was totally unacceptable. The clerk gate was accepted. The clerk reported that advised that the Loose neighbourhood plan would update the PCSOs. James from Landscape Services would be steering group supported the North Loose Pavilion and play area Gavin Lawrence had returning to re-spray the weeds. neighbourhood plan. replaced the fencepost and adjusted the gate Wheelie bin A new wheelie bin had been Local plan consultation A member of the closure at the play area. He also cleared a delivered to the parish field as the previous public spoke regarding the inclusion of a blockage in the outlet pipe of the pavilion one was missing. proposed development of 75 houses on land guering which was causing water to build Motorbike event Cllr Doe had been south of Leonard Gould Way and to the rear up, making it appear to be leaking again. approached by a motorbike club regarding of houses on Pickering Street. The parish Parish hall The clerk instructed Country parking and an overnight stay at the parish council confirmed it was aware of this Craftsman to proceed with the re-pointing field in conjunction with a charity event at development and that it lay in the local work. A quote from Austin Electricals to The Bull pub in aid of the air ambulance. landscape value area, which contravened replace three heaters (£270 plus Vat), install a About 30 people were expected to camp on policy guidelines. Again, in contradiction, new light in the store cupboard (£25 plus the field and they would supply their own Maidstone Council had previously Vat) and disconnect the damaged heater (£40 portable toilet. Members expressed concerns confirmed that it would resist any further plus Vat), was accepted. about noise and disturbance to local development south of Maidstone as this Car park Gavin Lawrence had been asked to residents who have to be notified and strict would exacerbate traffic problems. The repair the damage to the railings and wall in terms and conditions would need to be set. parish council rejected the draft plan and a the parish hall car park, caused by an It was agreed that half the booking fee response would be submied to the unknown vehicle. Cllr Manser had sprayed should be donated to charity and that no borough council. the weeds in the car park and would clear vehicles would be allowed to park on the Speed Watch Cllr Peter Rigby had aended them, along with the leaves, when they had field. a meeting regarding Speed Watch and died back. The chairman expressed the need Defibrillator The landlord of The Bull had found it beneficial in potentially tackling the for a proper maintenance contract for the provided a defibrillator for the local speeding traffic problem in Loose. The parish hall grounds as relying on volunteers community and was keen to arrange worst areas were along the viaduct and by was not satisfactory. She reported that she training, which would be free and arranged Loose Primary School. It was agreed that had cleared the rubble that had been left in by the brewery. Cllrs Doe and Greenwood information on seing up Speed Watch the car park and taken it to the tip. volunteered for training and Cllr would be obtained. Maidstone local plan The half of the Pea Greenwood would enquire at the post office HGVs A complaint had been received Field that was now in Barming was now for possible candidates. regarding the number of HGVs using the included in the proposed open space Tree Cllr Manser had received a complaint Beggars Roost site. The road had been left allocations, which members were keen to from the owner of Maerdale Gardens very muddy and damage to the sides of the support. regarding the yew tree on parish council road was evident. This had been reported to Allotments The chairman thanked Cllr Doe land opposite The Bull. It was agreed to cut the borough planning department. for cuing back the trees at the allotments. it back by half and keep it managed. Community warden Liz Lova had visited Unfortunately there were complaints which the site and spoken to the developer. A members were made fully aware of. Cllr sweeper lorry had been ordered as a maer Doe explained that it was not practical to Loose of urgency. The PCSO would investigate drag the large amounts of cuings along the Neighbourhood plan Further stages in the parking in this area which was blocking the narrow paths between plots to dispose of Loose Neighbourhood planning process access and creating a risk.

rm reports Crime A REAR light fiing was damaged in a Nissan Qashqai in Barnhurst Road. A home in Penenden Street was broken Neighbourhood Watch into and several documents, an Asus laptop, an Advent laptop and cash were stolen. Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A bicycle was stolen from a property in Woodcut. A Peugeot van was broken into in Farleigh A property was damaged when doorway of a home in Wheeler Street, Lane, Fant and the car radio was stolen. something was thrown at it in Brishing damaging the door. A bicycle was stolen from a pavement in Lane, Park Wood. A black and white Carrera mountain bike Calder Road. A first floor window of a home in West was stolen from a bike rack at a fitness Personal items were taken from a vehicle Park Road, Shepway was smashed. centre in Barker Road, Fant. CCTV footage in Bambridge Court. A property in St Leonard’s Road, shows it was taken by a man in his 30s, Items were stolen when a vehicle was Allington was damaged. about 5ft 7in tall and of medium build. broken into on a driveway in Thomas Rider A postbox was damaged in Bedford All four tyres were damaged on a car in Way, Park Wood. Place. Tarragon Road. A Ford Fiesta was scratched in Anglesey A vehicle was damaged in a car park in Two bay trees in pots were stolen from a Avenue, Tovil. Castle Road, Allington. driveway in Chartwell Drive. The wing mirrors were taken from a car in Two glass balustrades were damaged at a A Ford truck parked on a building site in Roseholme, Fant. property in North Pole Road, Barming, Hermitage Lane was broken into. The front windows were smashed on a There was a break-in at a shed Gardening equipment including a Stihl leaf Nissan Navarra in a car park in Penfold underneath a block of flats in London Road, collector and a Stihl hedge trimmer was Close, Park Wood. but nothing appeared to be missing. stolen. A green Rover car was seen at the A Renault van parked in Hampshire A side mirror and an aerial were stolen scene. Drive, Shepway was broken into. Tools, from a Vauxhall Corsa in a car park in including a Dewalt saw and a Dewalt Victoria Street. grinder, were stolen. The wing mirrors were damaged on a A property in St Catherine’s Road, Park Ford Ka in Wheeler Street. ALARM NOT WORKING? Wood was damaged. The number plates were taken from a WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS The rear window of a car was damaged in vehicle in Holland Road. Plains Avenue, Shepway. The rear tyre was slashed on a Honda CALL 01622 880751 The bodywork of a car was damaged in motorbike in Grecian Street. Lansdowne Avenue, Park Wood. The number plates were stolen from a VW A vehicle was damaged on a driveway in in Heathfield Road. ALARMS & SECURITY LTD South Park Road, Shepway. A lit firework was thrown into the

46 Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 downsmail.co.uk Health Patient care Efficiency plan to avoid plans online MORE than 1,000 individual per- sonal care plans, previously re- stricted to GPs surgeries, are now cuts in health services available on the West Kent comput- erised management system. FINANCIAL challenges affecting local health services were highlighted at The patient information is now a meeting of the GP-led NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group. available to complex care nurses and adult social care, and West Kent The group, which currently has commitment and to avoid long- services, especially relating to un- NHS Clinical Commissioning an annual budget of about £500m, term decay of health services in availability of hospital beds, be- Group (CCG) hopes to extend this to has started investigating making West Kent.” cause patients cannot be such services as mental health, hos- savings of about £20m (4%) in It calls for bold decisions in ap- satisfactorily discharged. pital teams, care homes, urgent care 2016/17 – but an allocation from the plying limited resources most ef- The group says the health and so- services, intensive support teams, Chancellor of the Exchequer’s in- fectively. cial care systems needs to come to- acute pharmacists, hospices and the creased NHS budget in the autumn Although many factors are cur- gether in a different way and take ambulance service. statement would reduce the level of rently unknown, the meeting was responsibility for their own contri- The information, available on a se- cuts. told the scale of challenge was con- butions. cure data network, informs ap- The group has identified a £60m siderable and would require strong One suggestion put to the meet- proved professionals of patients’ deficit in the West Kent health leadership and resolve from clini- ing is that the 2016/17 contract with care plans, enabling urgent assess- economy by 2018 if nothing is done cians and managers across the the Maidstone and Tunbridge ment of problems and needs. – and it fears additional pressures whole West Kent health system. Wells Hospital Trust should spec- Patients must authorise transfer of from an ageing population make Providers are to be alerted “so as ify a reduced level of elective activ- this data to the system and profes- that figure look optimistic. not to shock”. ity, which would reduce the sionals require patient authority to The group said: “Efficient deliv- The group is concerned that pres- number of operations for such as access it on every occasion, unless it ery is vital if we are to catch up and sures on the national social care knee and hip replacements. This is is not possible in an emergency. deliver on our current financial budget will continue to affect NHS not CCG policy. Winter peaks WEST Kent CCG is working with Awards for hospital workers the emergency care intensive sup- HOSPITAL staff at Maidstone and port team to improve flow, safety Tunbridge Wells’ hospitals have and effectiveness of urgent and been praised for “going the extra emergency care as winter sets in. mile”. The CCG said: “The risk of over- Staff Star awards were presented crowding in the two hospitals and to almost 30 team members follow- emergency departments is high and ing a poll of patients, visitors and this can have a profound and detri- colleagues. mental impact on patient outcomes Prizes were presented by the and both patient and staff experi- trust’s chief executive Glenn Dou- ence.” glas, chairman Tony Jones and ac- The priority is to increase capacity tress Cheryl Fergison, who played in the two hospitals by reducing Heather Trott in EastEnders. length of stay for inpatients, provid- The winners were: ing additional ambulatory care func-  Patient First: (individual) tion and increasing bed capacity. Jane Elliott, Colorectal CNS, Maid- The report added: “Staff become stone, (team) Maidstone Hospital weary of working in a state of con- Early Pregnancy Assessment stant escalation and an environment Team, Maidstone. of potential risk to patients.”  Respect: (individual) Coralle Baillie, ward 22 manager, Tun- Food for thought bridge Wells Hospital, (team) se- MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells curity Team, Maidstone.  NHS Trust says it has identified an Innovation: (individual) Sher- increase in complaints in nutrition win Sinocruz, Nervecentre Project and hydration. It is auditing notes (secondment from ITU), (team) and observations of meal times. ITU Sisters, Maidstone.  Delivery: (individual)Shelley Green, HCSW, UMAU, Maid- 111 call failures stone, (team), GUM, cross-site. Award winners Maidstone Hospital’s QUALITY of the NHS 111 telephone  Excellence: (individual) Caro- Early Pregnancy Assessment Team service provided by South East line Bush, junior sister, outpa- (top); League of Friends (above) and Coast Ambulance Service is causing tients, Maidstone, (team) Mercer ,Caroline Bush (right), a junior sister increased concerns. Ward, Maidstone. in outpatients at Maidstone Hospital Call-answering in 60 seconds per-  Hospital Heroes: Claire Ryan, formed at 79.2% (target 95%) in Sep- Macmillan nurse clinician and Dr  Chairman’s Award: Chantelle tember with a decline evident since Nikila Pandya, consultant paedia- Menzies-Beer, clinical specialist April. Call-back times were slower trician. physiotherapist. than any time since August 2014.  Special recognition: Maid-  Volunteer: Jayne Raffill, The CCG was told there was a short- stone and Tunbridge Wells Hospi- League of Friends volunteer, age of clinical advisers. tal Leagues of Friends. Maidstone.  Pride: Hilary Thomas, matron  Team of the year: Surgical and deputy head of midwifery. Nursing Teams, cross-site. Staff boost  Sylvia Denton Award: con-  Employee of the year: Simon STOCKETT Lane Surgery in Cox- sultant cardiologist Dr Scott Newcombe, senior biomedical sci- heath, says taking on two full-time Takeda. entist. pharmacists has had a positive im- pact on running the practice

Maidstone Town Xmas 2015 47 ‘Our reputation speaks for itself’ windows : doors : conservatories We are a local business that believe the key to success is “reputation”; that is why we like to distance ourselves from other companies in our sector and the way they work. If you would like a quality finish and competitive price without the hassle give us a call. NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN (OPEN: Monday to Friday: 8am - 5pm. Saturday: 9am - 1pm) 1a Brunswick Street East Maidstone ME15 7UX

call: 01622 686732 or 01622 692217 www.southernglassmaidstone.co.uk

WE DO NOT employ pushy salesmen on commission. WE DO employ our own fitters. WE DO insure all our guarantees for peace of mind. WE DO give prices over the phone.

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