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Maidstone East Edition & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper downsmail.co.uk Maidstone Weald Edition FREE Maidstone & Malling’s October 2017 No.No. 1 246newspaper

FREENews Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies AugustTHE cast 2018 of Cinderella, which is to be No. 256 KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the to News has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. Plan for 800 homes brings traffic concern David has disclosed. LAOnNGL boardEY res idTheent sKentishhave ex pLadyresse wered Bumper grape harvest national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy concerns about the traffic impact of WINEMAKERS are predicting a Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- MP’s Local Plan bid 800 new homes on the A274 will bumber grape harvest this year fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- have on the local country roads. aftHELENer the hWhatelyot weat haskeder the beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig DHA Plannings’s Chris Hawkins, brogovernmentught perfec tto co haltndit theion s. 3 pAndersonictured at a (Buttons)recent de v and,elope pictured,r’s ex- borough’s housing scheme. 4 hStephenibition, s a Richardsid the ov e andrall t Adamotal ha Bor-s bzoneeen (Uglyreduce Sisters)d by 50 . units and a Literacy winner rouTheyndab wereout sh greetedould he lbyp e pupilsase co nfrom- NEWPlans Line Le forarnin gDr’s f oNigelotball- South Borough Primary School and gestion as will extra buses. theTHEmed widow literac yof s cGPhe Drme Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto Relief road campaigner Wendy haswill pro walkved athe wi nGrandner. 6 runs from December 1-31. For tick- Young worries that the A274 Canyon for charity. 12 wetsill bgoec toom www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk.e a ‘nightmare’. 5 Doctor is retiring POJasonPULAR G PDonovan Anthony Finc hdateam is rTHEetiri nformerg from Neighbours his suc- star brings ceshissfu showl pra ctoti cthee. Hazlitt 10 Theatre next May. 18 WCCTVarnin callg to indri ave bidrs Good luck, Isobel CORNWALLIS student Isobel Coltham (15) heads to as crash blocks road Malawi on a mission. 14 to stop fly-tipping Emily flies the flag A CAR crash in which blocked the village for hours has CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a LIBERAL Democrat Emily Fermor prompted a stark warning from a local road safety campaigner. is championing the rain- bow flag for gay rights. 15 countryBorough roadcounc haveillor M beenartin made“On th bye da they of localthe cras boroughh, I was frie councillor.ndly and has a great selection of RoBurberryund, who Lane,helped nearcon Leedstrol tra andffic hnearby,elping t morehe po thanlice a and yeartryi afterng to it shunlicensedops. waste carriers, but be- oBroomfield,n the day o hasf th beene sma targetedsh, is con by- fwasind p dumpedeople al andterna settiv one ro fire.utes, as lieves“It is a thelot costless toha smallssle th firmsan get oftin dis-g Obituaries 32 cwasteerned dumpersthat cra forshe years,s will butbec inom re-e theThewho churchle of He caradc parkorn h hasad alsobeco seenme stposinguck in oftra constructionffic going int wasteo Maid at- a Obituaries 32 mcentore months,frequent theif d problemrivers co hasntin be-ue jamanymmed instances. of illegal dumping. sttransferone, beca stationuse eve isry provingthing is h ae deter-re. Parish Councils 34-37 tcomeo spee mored and acute.behave thoughtlessly. “ButPeop itle iss aho problemuted at m ine manyand w ruralere rent“I ju thatst w isish costingdriver councilss would more.slow Parish Councils 34-35 CConstructionllr Round sa waste,ys tha rubble,t Headc hardorn rareasude be includingcause they’ Langley,d been inc Othamonve- dowCllrn an Fortd hee maded othe herr dr remarksivers and as THE village car park in ASH dieback has been Ediscoveredast Far- in hcore,as be windowscome a vic andtim householdof its own s fur-uc- nandience Kingswood.d. One woman Watereven d Lanerove at in beonehav ofe in thea c borough’sourteous m closestanner, o trans-th- leigh is uneven and the bay mark- Monks Meadow in ; cnitureess, at istr leftactin illegallyg peopl –e oftento its strewnshops mBearstedy legs afte andr sug Pilgrimsgesting I w Wayas a havepo- erferwis stationse there w atill b Northe more Farm,crashe Tun-s.” ings have become overgrown; an village fete stall- in the middle of the road. also been targeted recently. bridge Wells, announced it will be estimate for speed signs to be because of traffic congestion in tential rapist!” On July 18, four people were in- holder co-ordinator Jean Duffy has Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month Last year, Maidstone Borough closed for 10 weeks. painted in was re- Maidstone. Cllr Round hears regular com- jured in a crash on the railway resigned; yellow lines are needed we are having toilets, sinks and Council cleared 911 cases of fly-tip- She added: “If you go along the ceived and agreed; two dozen pop- Speaking after the crash between plaints about people driving badly bridge in Biddenden Road. Queues for Buffkyn Way, , to allow construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 line of increasing fines, they have to pies would be placed on lamposts a car and a van on the A274 at and too fast through the village. of traffic stretched back to Sutton buses through Imperial Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. be enforced. A reduction in the in at a cost of 7.45am on July 18, he said: “I am He added: “I have seen people Valence as the rescue and clearance bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings charge or offering it free may have £111.50; Cllr Geraldine Brown has not saying that the people involved trying to overtake in the centre of operation was mounted. Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. the desired similar effect.” been re-elected unopposed as in this crash were doing anything Headcorn. They drive too fast and Police have asked witnesses the picnic area and rear exit. wland,rong to, b overseeut for m thee, I problemhad to re area.”flect tooCllragg Fortressiv welcomedely. a joint initia- or dAriv three-monthlyers with dash c litteram fo pickotag one to the chairman. A recent event in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency mile-long stretch of road through seriously about how people drive “People like to come here and get in touch with them on 01622 CrCrimeime R eReportsports  3 735 tsawheir aca caravanrs. burned out while a yandou c thean s Driveree why and. It’ Vehicles clean Stan-and 79Leeds8538. village produces an average torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32 black sacks of rubbish. VEHICLES have been driven over A MAPLE bush was stolen in ; Cllr Fort, who also serves as a farmland in ,Locausingose model cars were stolen in a house parish councillor, says teaching damge to crops; an attempted Lorry park plan break-in in Marden; a water cylin- children about social responsibility break-in was reported in Detling; a RURAL residents, who face the der was taken from the driveway and the issue of litter in schools will vehicle was vandalised in Bearsted prospect of a huge post-Brexit of a house in ; help take the issue off the streets. Rd, ; pumpkins were lorry park on their doorstep a Vauxhall Corsa parked in Staple- She believes with every household stolen from an allotment in near Boughton Malherbe as hurst was damaged; a bike was receiving a weekly refuse collection Lenham. YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT Highways England searches for stolen in . service, there is no excuse for litter suitable sites, have held [email protected] being thrown from vehicles or a public meeting. 4 Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumped in the road. Comment 46-47

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2 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk News Guides’ plea Winemakers celebrate a ADULT volunteers are needed from September by the 2nd Loose Guides. Anyone interested in sparing hot summer but fear hail time monthly, weekly or less fre- quently should get in touch. THE scorching hot summer is Annual English wine sales stand Meetings start at 7pm and are promising to be a wine-maker’s at £130m from about five million only during school term time. dream. bottles, but the export market is still If you can help or would like to Hush Heath producer Richard relatively small. offer services in other areas, contact Balfour-Lynn, who started the win- However, two large French boughtonvaledivision@girlguid- ery in Staplehurst as a hobby more Champagne houses, Vranken-Pom- ingkentweald.org.uk than 15 years ago, reckons a bumper mery and Tattinger, have acknowl- harvest is in the offing. edged the rise in English sparkling But he will be praying that a break wine production by investing in it. Holiday fun in the blistering temperatures is not Hush Heath is a 400-acre estate, YALDING’S summer play scheme accompanied by a hail storm, which with 120 acres given over to vines. It runs until Friday, August 17. could devastate his crop. produces 350,000 bottles annually Aimed at primary school chil- Mr Balfour-Lynn, pictured on the from its chardonnay, pinot noir and dren, it is held on weekdays. The terrace of the vineyard’s visitor cen- pinot meunier varieties. About 80% cost is £5 per day and young ones tre and shop, said: “We are looking of production is for sparkling white enjoy messy play, music, table ten- at a record harvest this year, com- wines. nis, outdoor sports and water pared to our previous best in 2006. “To make sparkling wine you Wineries have become established fights.Call Linda Gilbert on “We have been frost-free, disease- need a temperate climate. If it’s too all over Kent and Sussex in recent 0790981794 to see if there are places free, but the biggest risk we face is a hot, the sun converts the sugars into years, with Chapel Down, Redhill left. hail storm, which could damage the alcohol and you end up with a wine Estate and the Biddenden Vineyards grapes big time.” more like those of the New World becoming respected growers. That southern England is overtak- which is stronger than the tradi- Julian Barnes of the Biddenden Garden show ing the Champagne region of France tional champagne.” Vineyards, which produces up to THE Loose Gardeners’ Society’s for sparkling wines is “over-stated”, Winemakers do not welcome hot, 70,000 bottles of mostly white wine, summer show is held at the allotment says Mr Balfour-Lynn. damp conditions, as it increases the said: “We anticipate harvesting ear- site at Old Loose Hill, on August 11. “That’s some way away,” he risk of mildew or rot. Very warm, lier this year because of the weather. Gates open at 2pm and admission is added. “But in 30 or 40 years’ time dry conditions reduce the water con- Of course, we’d like a bit of rain but 50p. There will be prize-winning with global warming continuing, tent of the grape and increase the in- not endless, endless downpours. plants to view, stalls, raffle and pro- then I would say yes. tensity of flavour. And definitely no hail!” duce to buy.

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Maidstone Weald August 2018 3 News| Lorry park downsmail.co.uk Fears over lorry park plans THE day Kent’s long, hot, dry spell came to a brief, soggy end, residents in a glorious corner of the county gathered to discuss fears that the government may be ready to rain on their parade. Or build all over it. nity and residents, but we will On July 20, a few dozen hardy campaign and fight this one.” souls in kagools or huddled under Robert Turner, chairman of dripping umbrellas listened to MP Boughton Malherbe Parish Helen Whately explain, as best she Council said: “All I can say is could, how little Highways Eng- that the land is to be surveyed, land had been able to tell her about and we know there will be an an- its interest in this plot of arable swer before Christmas on the re- land, a few miles from Lenham. sults of that and whether there The parcel of 250-300 acres near will be further explorations. Platts Heath had been identified in “We know they are looking at Highways England’s urgent quest sites 50 miles from the ports and for land on which to build lorry the sites would have some sort of parks. The search has taken on a customs clearance facility. Be- new urgency in the face of major yond that, we will just have to problems on the M20, should wait and see.” Britain crash out of the EU without He said the land, which he es- a Brexit deal. timates is 270 acres, crosses two The locals do now know the fol- parish council boundaries – lowing: Sally Alexander and Cllr Shellina Prendergast at the meeting Boughton Malherbe and A subcontracted firm will carry in the authorities’ keeping their they’ll just do what they want.” Lenham. out ecological surveys soon. word. Like Mrs Alexander, many in County councillor Shellina The company will report back She said: “We have had the M20 the area feel that, even if they do Prendergast, who had met John around Christmas. built through our farm and the oppose the lorry park, HE will Kermor, HE projects director in The next move, if any, should be same happened with the Channel simply drive its proposal through Grafty Green the day before the known by the spring of 2019. Tunnel Rail Link – if they need it, and take the land through com- meeting, said she would start to 100 parcels of land on 50-60 plots they’ll come and take it. This is pulsory purchase. chase up the agency in the au- are being looked at. priceless land with ancient wood- Borough councillor Tom Sams tumn, so that the process would The search for sites is not con- land. said: “Over the years, we have not be dragged out. fined to Kent. “So, I don’t trust Highways Eng- had the Channel Tunnel Rail The meeting was also attended Sally Alexander, whose family land to do the things they might Link, the M20, a thousand houses by Richard Knox-Johnston, of the farms about 100 acres identified in say they’ll do and I don’t believe planned and now a lorry park. Kent arm of the Campaign to Pro- the HE plans, said she had no faith their platitudes, either. In the end, “It is gutting for the commu- tect Rural England (CPRE). Plans aim to cut congestion Study notes ‘arable land’ A LETTER from Highways England ACCORDING to studies car- and dated June 18 says the purpose ried out for Maidstone Borough of seeking parcels of land is to “re- Council’s recently-adopted duce traffic congestion caused Local Plan, the area is described by periods of cross- as “generally” an arable land- Channel disruption”. scape. It was written under the heading: The survey notes “large un- “Ecological Surveys for Operation dulating fields, enclosed by Stack Permanent Solution – Manag- regular blocks of woodland, ing Freight Traffic in Kent”. It seeks much of which is ancient, and permission for “non- some native hedgerow bound- invasive”ecologicalsurveysfromJuly aries. 30 until March next year, although “However, agricultural in- Highways Englad has indicated that tensification has led to some this site could be surveyed by Sep- hedgerow removal, and long tember 7. distance views of the North A statement from Highways Eng- Downs give an exposed and land said: “These surveys are a nor- large scale character to higher mal, routine part of our work and parts of this landscape. should not be taken to mean that Historic sites ‘could be bulldozed’ “The Great Stour river flows land may or may not be needed for through the valley as a minor LESLEY Feakes of the Lenham Ar- covered finds. She added: “There is a the construction of a scheme. They stream and within the shel- chaeological Society fears that the major Iron Age site just two kilome- are taking place over wide areas of tered pocket along the Great area where many significant Bronze tres away at Royton / Chapel Farm M20/A20 and M2/A2 corridors to Stour Valley.” Age artefacts – a hoard of axe heads that is already being threatened for help us gain a firm understanding The survey notes that there is have been found – will be bulldozed. sand quarrying. of conditions and environment in little in the way of develop- area. We are committed to full and She says the area is rich in prehis- “It will be a great pity if it is de- toric interest and potentially undis- stroyed.” ment in the area, apart from a meaningful consultation.” few houses and farms.

4 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk New houses | News

DHA spokesman Chris Hawkins at the exhibition More car worries over 800 homes RESIDENTS have expressed wor- created to absorb extra traffic. ries about the volume of traffic Leeds/Langley Relief Road Action created by hundreds of new Group spokesman Wendy Young houses to be built in Langley. (pictured below) The development will see 800 said: “I was homes on the A274, near Langley pleased to see that village, to be built by Brentwood- there was a reduc- based Countryside Properties. tion in the num- The overall number of two- to ber of homes, as it five-bedroom homes has been re- creates a green duced by 50 from the original appli- buffer with the cation, with 240 affordable homes church. and 60 care units for people with “But it really Relationship at “additional needs”. does not address the problems of Countryside said it will contribute traffic, which are already horren- £250,000 for the first five years to- dous. The B2163 from Langley to breaking point? wards more buses and create a Leeds will just become a cut- roundabout to deal with the 1,500 through to the M20, and the Wheat- The breakdown of any relationship can be plus extra cars on the roads. sheaf junction will be a nightmare. very distressing. The reduction in homes will help “Horseshoes Lane will become to create a green buffer between the the first cut-through and it simply is Whitehead Monckton family lawyers can help you housing estate and Langley church. not able to cope as it is. Let’s face it, through this stressful and painful time. An exhibition at Langley village no one is going to catch a bus, walk hall on July 18 to explain the plans or ride a bike as Maidstone Borough We offer sensitive, constructive and cost effective was staged by DHA Planning, but Council’s ‘modal shift’ concept local people claimed it was poorly claims. It is just pie in the sky.” legal advice. All our lawyers are experienced members publicised. DHA spokesman Chris Leeds Parish council chairman of Resolution, committed to a non-confrontational Hawkins conceded attendance at John Govett said the new develop- approach to resolving family problems. the exhibition had been quite low ment is “inevitable”, as it is in but said people seemed “quite MBC’s Local Plan for 17,600 homes. An initial fixed cost meeting for just £100 (inc VAT) with happy with the concept” of the He said: “There is nothing we can housing. do about the development – that’s one of our lawyers can help you see your way forward He said developers were improv- going to happen. A lot of that traffic and understand your legal position and options. ing five junctions along the Sutton will be going through Leeds and Road and additional lanes would be Langley and the road can’t cope.” Our offices are in the centre of Canterbury, Maidstone and Tenterden so, if you want to take that first step to Fun and games Legion’s outing finding out your options simply visit our website at: TWO summer fundraising family THE branch of the www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk garden party dates have been an- Royal British Legion will be visit- nounced. ing the Eastbourne Airshow on Canterbury 01227 643266 They will be taking place at August 16. Maidstone 01622 698051 Longmeadow Hall in Headcorn Thirty people are needed to on August 10 and August 24, both make the coach trip possible. Tenterden 01580 767540 Fridays. The party will depart at around The events’ organisers promise 9.30am. Seats have been booked at www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk “fun and games”, home-baked the bandstand for comfort, to Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in cakes, refereshments, arts and avoid the crowds and to watch the England & Wales. Registered office 72 King Street, Maidstone, Kent, crafts and a photo booth. displays under the flying line. ME14www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk 1BL. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Enquiries should be sent to head- Call Mike FitzGerald MBE on Authority under no. 608279. [email protected] 01622 743270. It costs £27. DM2016

Maidstone Weald August 2018 5 News downsmail.co.uk Boy hit by car A SMALL boy was flown to a Lon- don hospital by air ambulance after Football reading game being hit on his bicycle by a car near Maidstone. He was taken to King’s College Hospital after the accident on scores literacy award Church Hill in Boughton Monchelsea at 4.30pm on Monday, ENGLAND’S lion-hearted foot- The Kent Literacy Awards call July 23. ball heroes might not have made for nominations to showcase ini- He is said to be suffering head it to the World Cup final, but the tiatives that have made a real dif- and back injuries. beautiful game of a different kind ference in schools. Kent Police said: "We were were has proved a roaring success in Mrs McKee, who has taught at called to a collision in Church Hill, 2018 at New Line Learning. the school for 13 years, said: “In- Boughton Monchelsea. The colli- Literacy instructor Sarah McKee troducing the sporting element has sion involved a car and a cyclist. has teamed up with some of her worked really well. It even en- “Officers and South East Coast reluctant readers to devise a gages the most reluctant year 11 Ambulance Service attended and a scheme which has both boys and students who are now actually boy who had been riding the bicy- girls itching to be the best in their wanting to read.” cles was taken to hospital. His in- field. The aim of the Literacy Awards juries were not believed to be life Now, Mrs McKee has been is not only to celebrate what has threatening.” recognised for her outstanding worked well in the classroom, but work by being honoured in the also to share best practice across Kent Literacy Awards. the whole county. Tours and tea Her “Reading Football” game, Mrs McKee was presented with A VILLAGE church is opening its played out among reluctant read- her award for the ‘Best Scheme to doors for afternoon tea and cake ers in years 8 – 11, works along the Sarah McKee receives her Literacy Excite Reluctant Readers’ at a cer- three times a week this summer. same lines as a regular football Award from Sir Terry Waite emony held at Hempstead House, St Peter’s Church in Boughton game, with team members taking Sittingbourne, by humanitarian Monchelsea is open every Wednes- a turn with the book – the ball – be- Any foul play results in a red or and author Sir Terry Waite CBE. day, Saturday and Sunday from fore passing it on to the next yellow card being produced by She said: “It was a real thrill to 2.30-5pm. player. Mrs McKee. win, but I am most excited for the Guides will show off the beauti- If a player struggles with a word, The scheme has proved a great students who have benefitted from ful stained glass window designed he or she can tackle and pass the success, with students showing the scheme. Fortunately, so far, I by Graham Clarke, with its sound problem to the other team where, real progress since it was imple- haven’t had to show either a yel- and light show. if successful, they will score a goal. mented in February this year. low or red card!” COUNTY COBBLER

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Maidstone Weald August 2018 7 News | Judicial review downsmail.co.uk Council ‘risks all’ in court bale MAIDSTONE Borough Council (MBC) is set to challenge the judgement by the High Court over its failed application for a judicial review into road levies.

We understand that MBC will pur- account. I am not persuaded that He warned of wider implications if County councillor and relief road sue an application for “oral reconsid- there was a duty to give reasons for MBC chooses to pursue a High Court campaignerGaryCooke(pictured,left) eration” on advice from its barrister. the decision, but in any event, the rea- action and is defeated again, as it said: “Tax-payers will be screaming The council leadership has agreed sons for the defendant's position are might produce a test case where from the hilltops. MBC just seems to to go ahead with the new strategy well known. The defendant's claim local authority planning committees want to throw good money after bad. with the view to achieving clarity on for costs in the sum of £18,377.28 was lose the ability to attach conditions to This is madness.” whether the action could get through unreasonable and disproportionate. developments. Cllr Powell added: “I MBCsaysthehearingwilltakeplace a High Court hearing. in the autumn. A statement said: “The A judge rejected an application for judicial review, brought against Kent a judicial review into how Kent County Council (KCC), was instigated County Council, the road building by MBC in May, after all attempts to authority, uses cash from developer settle a matter over the use of specific contributions (S106 money). S106 money obtained as part of the KCC wants to use £200,000 from statutoryplanningprocessprovedun- three developments on theA274 Sut- successful. ton Road to carry out surveys into the “To date, the known cost of the judi- viability of a Leeds-Langley relief cial review for MBC stands at £5,500; road. with a further £9,000 awarded to KCC Mrs Justice Lang ordered MBC to in costs, should the action prove un- pay £9,000 costs to KCC unless either successful.” side mounted a challenge. So far, ac- Leader of Maidstone Borough cording MBC, the current cost of the Council, Cllr Martin Cox, said: “We legal action by the Liberal Democrat- have faced some criticism over the ac- led borough council against Tory-run tionwehavetaken.However,Ifeelitis KCC is £14,500. I have summarily assessed it at hope I’m wrong, but there could be important to establish clarity on this Mrs Justice Lang’s summary £9,000.” wider, riskier implications for a case issue, since it has implications for the stated: “In my view, the claimant Independent Maidstone borough like this. These are dangerous games discharge of the council’s statutory (MBC) has not presented arguable councillor Eddie Powell (above, to be playing. It could set a precedent planning functions. grounds that the defendant's (KCC’s) right) said: "Here we have two polit- across the whole country.” “However, we acknowledge what decision was unlawful. Whilst the ical parties fighting amongst them- The authority held a high level the judge, Mrs Justice Lang, has said. defendant's approach is controver- selves with the tax-payer picking up meeting on July 23 to discuss legal “We hope to be able to resolve this sial, it cannot be characterised as ir- the tab. options going forward and at which matter as quickly as possible and rational, nor can it plausibly be “The price tag is now fourteeen the decision was made to challenge continue to work collaboratively with contended that the defendant failed grand and rising by the day. Still, it's the rejection of the judicial review ap- KCC for the benefit of all residents to take material considerations into only money - our money." plication. across the borough.” Lib Dem leader ‘not sure on modal shift’ Politics ‘before residents’ needs’ THE leader of Maidstone Borough THE chairman of Leeds Parish Coun- strange, given KCC is responsible for Council, Martin Cox, has admitted cil (LPC) has accused Maidstone Bor- roads and highways and not MBC.” he cannot be “100% sure” that the ough Council (MBC) of putting Leeds PC wrote to the MBC Leader controversial concept of “modal house-building and political point- in November 2015 suggesting the shift” will work. scoring ahead of the needs of local use of Section 106 levy private sector Modal shift is MBC’s way to try people. monies at a rate of £2,700 per home to mitigate against the increase in In an excoriating letter to Clare in order to fund the £50m approxi- traffic by encouraging tax-payers Harvey, data intelligence officer at mate cost of the relief road, says Cllr to ride bicycles, walk or catch a bus MBC, John Govett (left) said the Govett. rather than drive a car. The bor- council had ignored pleas for a Leeds- He added: “MBC, in our view, failed ough council hopes this will deal Langley relief road. in their Local Plan of Oct 2017 to with the extra traffic generated as a Mr Govett wrote: “MBC has effec- build into it from the start, adequate result of the Local Plan, which will tively (in our LPC view) put first their road infrastructure to support the see at least 17,600 homes built in own housing pressures, along with growth in housing over time (despite Maidstone. their own funding pressures and local KCC supporting the relief road as a Downs Mail asked Cllr Cox and politics, ahead of the wider commu- priority….The funding for a relief MBC chief executive Alison Broom: nities in south Maidstone and, in case road could part have been (and still “Are you 100% sure modal shift can they forget it, those they serve.” could be) achieved by using S106 work?” He said KCC saw the need for the levy funding more strategically and At first, Mrs Broom said that by-pass long before the recently- inventively by MBC, along with other modal shift “can occur”. Cllr Cox adopted MBC Local Plan – which has measures to get funding of £70m. then said: “You are asking a person no relief road – committed the bor- Some property developers have even if they are 100% certain something ough to 17,600 new homes with the shown their willingness to part pay can work. How on earth can any- prospect of 7,000 more. Cllr Govett for the relief road…If ever there is a body be 100% sure something is claims: “This has repeatedly been ig- case for a new unitary authority in going to work because you are ask- nored by MBC as an immediate pri- Kent, this is one example.” ing about something that is going ority in the Local Plan, which is MBC refused to comment. to happen in the future?”

8 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News | Judicial review downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Advertisementdownsmail.co.uk Feature Council ‘risks all’ in court bale MAIDSTONE Borough Council (MBC) is set to challenge the judgement by the High Court over How you get better, safer its failed application for a judicial review into road levies.

We understand that MBC will pur- account. I am not persuaded that He warned of wider implications if County councillor and relief road sue an application for “oral reconsid- there was a duty to give reasons for MBC chooses to pursue a High Court campaignerGaryCooke(pictured,left) vision while driving eration” on advice from its barrister. the decision, but in any event, the rea- action and is defeated again, as it said: “Tax-payers will be screaming The council leadership has agreed sons for the defendant's position are might produce a test case where from the hilltops. MBC just seems to Have you ever driven when to go ahead with the new strategy well known. The defendant's claim local authority planning committees want to throw good money after bad. the sun is low, and the visor in with the view to achieving clarity on for costs in the sum of £18,377.28 was lose the ability to attach conditions to This is madness.” whether the action could get through unreasonable and disproportionate. developments. Cllr Powell added: “I MBCsaysthehearingwilltakeplace your car appears to offer little a High Court hearing. in the autumn. A statement said: “The help? Alternatively, you may have A judge rejected an application for judicial review, brought against Kent a judicial review into how Kent County Council (KCC), was instigated experienced the blinding glare from County Council, the road building by MBC in May, after all attempts to a wet road on a sunny day. authority, uses cash from developer settle a matter over the use of specific contributions (S106 money). S106 money obtained as part of the KCC wants to use £200,000 from statutoryplanningprocessprovedun- Have you ever been unsure what three developments on theA274 Sut- successful. could be hiding in the shadow of ton Road to carry out surveys into the “To date, the known cost of the judi- a hedge or at the dip of a hill? You viability of a Leeds-Langley relief cial review for MBC stands at £5,500; road. with a further £9,000 awarded to KCC are not alone. Mrs Justice Lang ordered MBC to in costs, should the action prove un- pay £9,000 costs to KCC unless either successful.” side mounted a challenge. So far, ac- Leader of Maidstone Borough Sunglass causes 3,000 accidents cording MBC, the current cost of the Council, Cllr Martin Cox, said: “We due to road accidents every year. legal action by the Liberal Democrat- have faced some criticism over the ac- Don’t become one of these statistics. led borough council against Tory-run tionwehavetaken.However,Ifeelitis KCC is £14,500. I have summarily assessed it at hope I’m wrong, but there could be important to establish clarity on this You can get better, safer vision light conditions in addition to being Mrs Justice Lang’s summary £9,000.” wider, riskier implications for a case issue, since it has implications for the ZLWK WKH ZRUOG¶V ¿QHVW GULYLQJ polarised. Amazingly versatile, stated: “In my view, the claimant Independent Maidstone borough like this. These are dangerous games discharge of the council’s statutory sunglasses. Serengeti sunglasses (MBC) has not presented arguable councillor Eddie Powell (above, to be playing. It could set a precedent planning functions. the lenses darken in very bright grounds that the defendant's (KCC’s) right) said: "Here we have two polit- across the whole country.” “However, we acknowledge what cut through all this glare, enhance £50 off conditions and lighten in overcast decision was unlawful. Whilst the ical parties fighting amongst them- The authority held a high level the judge, Mrs Justice Lang, has said. contrast and make driving safer and prescription defendant's approach is controver- selves with the tax-payer picking up meeting on July 23 to discuss legal “We hope to be able to resolve this more comfortable than ever before. or low light levels, to offer the very sial, it cannot be characterised as ir- the tab. options going forward and at which matter as quickly as possible and best protection and superior visual Serengeti sunglasses rational, nor can it plausibly be “The price tag is now fourteeen the decision was made to challenge continue to work collaboratively with contended that the defendant failed grand and rising by the day. Still, it's the rejection of the judicial review ap- KCC for the benefit of all residents $VWKHPDNHURIWKHZRUOG¶V¿QHVW acuity in varying light conditions to take material considerations into only money - our money." plication. across the borough.” driving sunglass, Serengeti is in any season. Serengeti is the only Lib Dem leader ‘not the number one choice for many company to supply these lenses in professional drivers, pilots and their sunglasses. Serengeti lenses £25 off sure on modal shift’ Politics ‘before residents’ needs’ military personnel including the are polarised, photochromatic non-prescription THE leader of Maidstone Borough THE chairman of Leeds Parish Coun- strange, given KCC is responsible for drivers in the 24hr Le Mans. They and contrast enhancing, and are Council, Martin Cox, has admitted cil (LPC) has accused Maidstone Bor- roads and highways and not MBC.” are also the sunglasses that award- only at Buchanan he cannot be “100% sure” that the available in non-prescription, ough Council (MBC) of putting Leeds PC wrote to the MBC Leader controversial concept of “modal winning Optometrist Alisdair house-building and political point- in November 2015 suggesting the prescription and varifocals. Optometrists. shift” will work. scoring ahead of the needs of local use of Section 106 levy private sector Buchanan wears throughout the Modal shift is MBC’s way to try people. monies at a rate of £2,700 per home year whenever driving. Get clearer, more comfortable and to mitigate against the increase in In an excoriating letter to Clare in order to fund the £50m approxi- Visit Buchanan traffic by encouraging tax-payers Harvey, data intelligence officer at mate cost of the relief road, says Cllr safer vision this summer. Call into to ride bicycles, walk or catch a bus MBC, John Govett (left) said the Govett. Alisdair explains “I wear my Buchanan Optometrists to try on Optometrists today to rather than drive a car. The bor- council had ignored pleas for a Leeds- He added: “MBC, in our view, failed Serengeti sunglasses dawn til ough council hopes this will deal the extensive range of Serengeti Langley relief road. in their Local Plan of Oct 2017 to dusk whenever the sun shines, all try on Serengeti with the extra traffic generated as a Mr Govett wrote: “MBC has effec- build into it from the start, adequate sunglasses today. result of the Local Plan, which will tively (in our LPC view) put first their road infrastructure to support the through the year. I wouldn’t feel sunglasses and see at least 17,600 homes built in own housing pressures, along with growth in housing over time (despite safe driving without them. Every Bring this voucher and Buchanan Maidstone. their own funding pressures and local KCC supporting the relief road as a redeem your voucher. Downs Mail asked Cllr Cox and politics, ahead of the wider commu- priority….The funding for a relief time one of my clients compares Optometrists will give you £50 MBC chief executive Alison Broom: nities in south Maidstone and, in case road could part have been (and still Serengeti lenses to a standard off any prescription Serengeti “Are you 100% sure modal shift can they forget it, those they serve.” could be) achieved by using S106 sunglass they are staggered at how £50 o prescription Serengeti sunglasses work?” He said KCC saw the need for the levy funding more strategically and sunglasses and £25 off non- and £25 o non-prescription sunglasses on At first, Mrs Broom said that by-pass long before the recently- inventively by MBC, along with other much clearer their vision is and prescription Serengeti sunglasses. presentation of this voucher. modal shift “can occur”. Cllr Cox adopted MBC Local Plan – which has measures to get funding of £70m. wonder how they managed without Hurry, offer ends 12/8/18. Valid until 12/8/18. then said: “You are asking a person no relief road – committed the bor- Some property developers have even them. Once you have got a pair, you One voucher per purchase. T & Cs apply. if they are 100% certain something ough to 17,600 new homes with the shown their willingness to part pay can work. How on earth can any- prospect of 7,000 more. Cllr Govett for the relief road…If ever there is a will never try anything else”. body be 100% sure something is claims: “This has repeatedly been ig- case for a new unitary authority in going to work because you are ask- nored by MBC as an immediate pri- Kent, this is one example.” Serengeti lenses feature unique 01622 535115 ing about something that is going ority in the Local Plan, which is MBC refused to comment. to happen in the future?” technology to adjust to changing 56 Malling Road, Snodland,Kent, ME6 5NB

Maidstone Weald August 2018 9 News downsmail.co.uk GNewsP retires from downsmail.co.uk family practice Crop destroyed as fire TAnotherHE retirement of Dr Anthony Fin- incursion cham (65), senior partner with the Yalding Surgery, brings to an end a family link which lasted 62 years. rips across wheat field at LarkfieldHis late father park Paul practised at THIS is the devastation left behind TRAVELLERS have moved back ellers simply moving on to take up the family home in by a large fire on arable land near onto a popular parkYaldin ing f Larkfieldrom 1956 temporary residence elsewhere in for the second time in six months. Lthean area.gley. and was joined by Firefighters battled the flames in a Fire swept The families -h inis fivewife caravansElizabeth, - He said: “They just seem to be pulled on to Gighill Green in fdoingield of thewhe rounds.at for ab Theseout thr incidentsee hours across this field A n t h o n y ’ s Lunsford Lane on Sunday October ohaven the affectedafterno Weston of Malling,Saturda forcingy, July near Langley, ,, releasing dogsmo onthe ther, un populartil their 28. the closure of the village hall, and where the public open spacereti andreme settingnt in 198 up6. Leybourne,Police dive andrted nowtraffi theyc alon areg F backorge washingAnthon linesy joi withinned as hours.a par Ittn iser un-in Linan Larkfield.e after the TheB21 police63 Upp tolder St resi-reet wheat was 1derstood980, when he was 27. The practice wdentsas blo thatcked thisin o wasne d air civilection trespassby fire said to have othepera fami-ted from a house in Lees Road ewhenngine theys. reported it and that they been almost lies in- until 2003, when a large surgery was couldn’tAngry domo anythingtorists sh andoute obviouslyd abuse, ready to volved the council offices were closed be- built at Burgess Bank. sounded horns or turned around harvest have been cause it was the weekend. These Anthony led a team of about 20 when they were unable to drive GofferingPs, nurses, secretaries, dispensers, travellers know and play the sys- tree felling through Leeds village. Burberry to‘Spooktacular’cut and with the recent hot at“But t thehere is a farmn attitude about receptionists and support staff in a tem.” services to LaThene w council’sas shut legalwhi teamle fir servedefighte anrs weather, the fields have been like Burberry Lane that people think popular practice. MAKE the most of the October half-term holiday at Heritage residents tevictionackled th noticee blaz bute. it took a week to tinFarmder.” Park’s Halloween Spooktacular inth Maidstone.ey can dump what they like, He retired as a GP partner in June, in the area. enforce.It was Cllrrepo Thornewellrted that an heldarea talksthe CrBraveews d kidsealt arewit invitedh small topo thecke vintagets of w villagehere th toey knocklike. on doors and buParisht continued as a locum so that the swithize o Laddingfordf 60 football Engineeringpitches was ind ane- firdiscovere on the whoedg –e orof whatthe w –o isod lurkings, pre- behind“Fl themy-tipp froming i Octobers still a m 21-31.ajor prob- mcounciledical team could return to full sefforttroye tod i increasen the bla securityze. further on ventTheing award-winningit spreading fu attractionrther. Th atey Sandling,lem her neare and Maidstone,one that we hashav ae fewhigh- schairmantrength with five GPs. theTh publice fire i land,s thou nearght t theo ha M20.ve started alotherso m tricksanage upd itsto sleevepreve tont turnflam itses usualligh exhibitsted wit intoh M frighteningaidstone Borough DavidDr Fi Thornewellncham sees t sayshe ro morele of G hasPs a tos atValdemarthe Langley Kalininend of B (pictured),urberry Lan ofe. refarmhousesaching an ad andjoin horrifyinging field. homes. Youngsters can try pumpkin carving, be done to stop the travelling com- Council for years. They send people more important than ever, at a time theFe Nationald by a str Gypsy-Traveller-Romaong southerly wind, it dressingLeeds b uporo andugh theco Uglyunci Bugllor Ball.Gill out to clear it up and then the next munity running circles around the Council said recently that local when many consultants concentrate ripped across the land from to FortOn, w Octoberho has 25,bee theren a v willoca bel c moream- spookylot of s goings-ontuff is dum withped Kent. So Lifeby doing police and local councils. councils must provide designated After Dark, on narrow specialities. woodland near the Leeds village paigner against fly-tipping, said: He says the job of moving on trav- traveller sites or “tolerated zone” This event includes a spine-chilling tournoth suitableing, the forpro under-eightsblem continu fromes and ellersHe a forlso aq seconduestions timeif it c willan c runonti intonue playing fields. A Langley resident “Was it a discarded cigarette or a costs us all money. We need to get as basically a free service, particu- which gypsy convoys can move 5-6pm and, for older visitors, from 7-8pm. thousands of pounds The last inci- sonto.aid: “ HeThe said:fire c “Itrew comess did a downfantast toic piece of glass that caught the sun? CCTV cameras up there to try and larly with areas of expensive waste. If you would like to know more about any of the above, call 01622 dent, in early summer, costing the jracialob. Th prejudicee wheat wa againsts just ab thisout r com-eady W763936.ho knows. stop the illegal dumpers.” parish council £1,200, with the trav- munity.” 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. 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6 Malling October 2017 10 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk News CCTV call to stop fly-tipping CALLS for the installation of Illegal fly-tipping Across Kent, local authorities are CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tip- is costing local spending hundreds of thousands of ping on a country road have been authorities hun- pounds clearing up rubbish. made by the local borough coun- dreds of thou- According to one report £323,000 cillor. sands of pounds, was spent dealing with almost Burberry Lane, near Kingswood, 14,000 incidents in 2016-17. This is a says Cllr Gill Fort has been targeted by waste sharp increase on the previous 12 dumpers for years, but in recent months when just over 10,000 in- months, the problem has become stances cost £244,000. more acute with waste often strewn Cllr Fort welcomed a joint initia- across the middle of the road. tive by the Environment Agency Cllr Gill Fort, pictured right, said: and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- “Every month we are having toi- dards Agency to clamp down on lets, sinks and construction waste unlicensed waste carriers. But she dumped in the village, specifically believes the high cost to small firms in Burberry Lane. We are now more than a Headcorn and Chart Sutton. Last of disposing of construction waste thinking of installing cameras on year after it was year, Maidstone Borough Council at a transfer station is costing coun- private land to oversee the problem dumped and torched. The church cleared 911 cases of fly-tipping and cils dearly. Cllr Fort made her re- area.” car park has also seen illegal dump- more than 163 have been recorded marks as one of the borough’s A recent event in Burberry Lane ing. since April this year. The ap- closest transfer stations at North saw a caravan burned out while a But it is also a problem in many proaching darker evenings will Farm, Tunbridge Wells, announced car remains on a footpath nearby, rural areas, including Langley, prompt a rise in illegal tipping. it will be closed for 10 weeks.

STAPLEHURST vineyard Hush Heath Estate will be supplying to Heath will send its sparkling wine to Vineyard ‘bubbling’ over deal Canadian consumers is hugely wel- Canada after landing a deal with come and they will be flying the one of the world’s largest alcohol gramme. The “significant deal” was trading relationship as the UK flag for the high-quality of wine buyers. announced as Prime Minister leaves the EU. being produced in Britain.” Hush Heath’s Balfour 1503 Clas- Theresa May was in Ottawa for Mrs May said: “It’s great to see Hush Heath owner Richard Bal- sic Cuvée is the first English talks with Canadian PM Justin that English sparkling wine has four-Lynn said: “Hush Heath is a sparkling wine selected for the Trudeau on how the UK and been making a name for itself, not family-owned winery…and we are Liquor Contril Board (LCBO) of On- Canada can further strengthen just in the UK but further afield too. very excited to see our wines avail- tario’s Vintages Classics Pro- their ties to build the closest, freest “The news today that Hush able in the Canadian market."

News downsmail.co.uk GP retires from family practice Crop destroyed as fire Has your THE retirement of Dr Anthony Fin- cham (65), senior partner with the doubledouble glazingglazing Yalding Surgery, brings to an end a family link which lasted 62 years. rips across wheat field EXCELLENCE IN EYE CARE His late father steamedsteamed up? Paul practised at THIS is the devastation left behind in Maidstone the family home in by a large fire on arable land near At Eye 2 Eye Opticians, we provide eye examinations to the Yalding from 1956 Langley. highest standards. We o er a full range of services including WeWe can SASAVEAVVE your windowindows!ws! and was joined by Firefighters battled the flames in a Fire swept his wife Elizabeth, field of wheat for about three hours across this field eye health photos, specialist cornea scans, full OCT eye scans, A n t h o n y ’ s SAVESAAVVE money,moneyy,, energyenerrggy & time on the afternoon of Saturday, July near Langley, and specialist dry eye clinics. All at a ordable prices and Cloudy2Clear is a leading local glass rreplacementeplacement companycompany,, mother, until their 28. established for over 10 years. By saving your window we can... where the retirement in 1986. Police diverted traffic along Forge carried out by experienced specialist optometrists. SASAVEAVVE moneymoney,y,, SASAVEAVVE energy,energyy,, SASAVEAVVE ttime.ime. Anthony joined as a partner in Lane after the B2163 Upper Street wheat was 1980, when he was 27. The practice was blocked in one direction by fire said to have • Suppliers of • Specialist Dry ReplaceReplace the pane,pane, not the frameframe operated from a house in Lees Road engines. been almost Nikon Lenses eye clinic The good news is you don’tdon’t need to go thrthroughough the expensive until 2003, when a large surgery was Angry motorists shouted abuse, ready to processprocess of replacingreplacing the whole frame. YYoYouou can just rreplaceeplace the built at Burgess Bank. sounded horns or turned around harvest • NHS Emergency • Independent family glass. Our quotes on average take no longer than 2020 minutesminutes.. Anthony led a team of about 20 when they were unable to drive referral and walk owned business YourYYoour local & rrerepairsepairs GPs, nurses, secretaries, dispensers, through Leeds village. Burberry to cut and with the recent hot “But there is an attitude about in clinics available • Experienced friendly sta trtrustedusted experexpertt Hinge,Hinge, locklock mechamechanismnism receptionists and support staff in a Lane was shut while firefighters weather, the fields have been like Burberry Lane that people think • Free Parking • Disabled access popular practice. tackled the blaze. tinder.” they can dump what they like, All glazingglazing backedbacked byby our He retired as a GP partner in June, It was reported that an area the Crews dealt with small pockets of where they like. but continued as a locum so that the size of 60 football pitches was de- fire on the edge of the woods, pre- “Fly-tipping is still a major prob- medical team could return to full stroyed in the blaze. venting it spreading further. They lem here and one that we have high- strength with five GPs. Local, frfriendlyiendly WWee aarerreea a The fire is thought to have started also managed to prevent flames lighted with Maidstone Borough engineer Which? Dr Fincham sees the role of GPs as at the Langley end of Burberry Lane. reaching an adjoining field. Council for years. They send people Find us at: GUARANTEEGUARANTEE TrustedTrusted TraderTrader more important than ever, at a time Fed by a strong southerly wind, it Leeds borough councillor Gill out to clear it up and then the next Unit 8, Mid-Kent Shopping Centre PriorityPriority frfreephonereeephone when many consultants concentrate ripped across the land from to Fort, who has been a vocal cam- lot of stuff is dumped. So by doing on narrow specialities. woodland near the Leeds village paigner against fly-tipping, said: nothing, the problem continues and Castle Road, Allington, Maidstone Kent ME16 0PU He also questions if it can continue playing fields. A Langley resident “Was it a discarded cigarette or a costs us all money. We need to get E: [email protected] 01622 672563 as basically a free service, particu- said: “The fire crews did a fantastic piece of glass that caught the sun? CCTV cameras up there to try and larly with areas of expensive waste. job. The wheat was just about ready Who knows. stop the illegal dumpers.” www.eye2eyeonline.co.uk SAVESAAVVE money - SASAVEAVVE energyenergy -- SASAVEAVVE timetime

Maidstone Weald October 2017 11

Maidstone Weald August 2018 11 News downsmail.co.uk War on weeds SEVENTEEN volunteers helped the Loose Amenities Association to cut Council is accused of paths and clear overgrown weeds and vegetation. The clear-up was held on July 15, during the heatwave, and the pro- ‘blowing underspend’ longed dry conditions made bram- bles “tough to deal with”. THE leadership of Maidstone Bor- interests of taxpayers.” A spokesman told volunteers: ough Council (MBC) has been ac- Leader of MBC, Cllr Martin Cox, “The temperature was not exactly cused of blowing a budget said: “It is important to state that the exertion-friendly. Well done – you underspend “like punters who council remains in a stable financial all deserve a medal!” have had a good day at the races”. position – to suggest otherwise is Conservative opposition leader misleading. We have successfully John Perry (pictured) claims a pro- managed to produce balanced budg- Local art show portion of the £185,000 left over will ets for capital and revenue expendi- THE August exhibition at the River- be diverted to “pet projects” like ture for 2018/19, and it is predicted side gallery in Yalding features work Maidstone Museum. that our financial situation will be from the local artistic community. Cllr Perry, who represents Staple- broadly comparable for 2019-2020. It showcases pieces by the Yalding hurst, said Liberal Democrat-led “Our unallocated reserves are Art Group, Hadlow Pottery, Ken- MBC should take a “more consid- considered to be adequate. As of ward Trust and Sarah Abercrombie ered approach” to spending tax- 2017/18 these amounted to £7 mil- Jones. The gallery is open from 2- payers’ money in financially lion – the minimal agreed level is £2 5pm on Mondays, Thursdays and constrained times. million. Saturdays until August 27. He added: “I just think it is irre- “We are confident that £80,000 of sponsible ... they’re charging around the £185,000 underspend can be di- like punters who’ve had a good day pursue their own pet projects with- rected to other areas to deliver the Club barbecue at the races looking for somewhere out any detailed justification for council’s strategic objectives, with- THE Yalding Supper Club enjoyed a to spend it. these. out any significant risk to the coun- barbecue at the home of Janet and “We have been through some “Conservative councillors have cil’s financial position. The Gordon Till on July 16. hard times, like all local authorities, many good ideas to pursue, but we remaining £105,000 is being trans- Rachel Curley cooked for 20 but that is all the more reason to will not put at risk the financial sta- ferred to reserves. We will continue guests in the garden at Lyngs Close. demonstrate prudence. bility of the council and the provi- to act in the interest of all taxpayers The club meets again at the village “We are disappointed that all Lib- sion of its core services. and protect the core services that we hall at 5pm on August 20. Call Sue eral Democrat, Labour and some in- “The council has taken a decision, know matter to every resident of the Gerrish on 01622 814159. dependent councillors chose to which we believe is not in the best borough.”

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12 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News downsmail.co.uk War on weeds SEVENTEEN volunteers helped the Loose Amenities Association to cut Council is accused of paths and clear overgrown weeds Mon 31st Jul - Sat 1st Sep and vegetation. The clear-up was held on July 15, during the heatwave, and the pro- ‘blowing underspend’ longed dry conditions made bram- bles “tough to deal with”. THE leadership of Maidstone Bor- interests of taxpayers.” A spokesman told volunteers: ough Council (MBC) has been ac- Leader of MBC, Cllr Martin Cox, Summer “The temperature was not exactly cused of blowing a budget said: “It is important to state that the exertion-friendly. Well done – you underspend “like punters who council remains in a stable financial all deserve a medal!” have had a good day at the races”. position – to suggest otherwise is Conservative opposition leader misleading. We have successfully Local art show John Perry (pictured) claims a pro- managed to produce balanced budg- Holiday portion of the £185,000 left over will ets for capital and revenue expendi- THE August exhibition at the River- be diverted to “pet projects” like ture for 2018/19, and it is predicted side gallery in Yalding features work Maidstone Museum. that our financial situation will be from the local artistic community. Cllr Perry, who represents Staple- broadly comparable for 2019-2020. It showcases pieces by the Yalding hurst, said Liberal Democrat-led “Our unallocated reserves are Art Group, Hadlow Pottery, Ken- MBC should take a “more consid- considered to be adequate. As of Activities ward Trust and Sarah Abercrombie ered approach” to spending tax- 2017/18 these amounted to £7 mil- Jones. The gallery is open from 2- payers’ money in financially lion – the minimal agreed level is £2 5pm on Mondays, Thursdays and constrained times. million. Saturdays until August 27. He added: “I just think it is irre- “We are confident that £80,000 of sponsible ... they’re charging around the £185,000 underspend can be di- Join us for some summer fun! like punters who’ve had a good day pursue their own pet projects with- rected to other areas to deliver the Club barbecue at the races looking for somewhere out any detailed justification for council’s strategic objectives, with- THE Yalding Supper Club enjoyed a to spend it. these. out any significant risk to the coun- • Super Stars Holiday Club barbecue at the home of Janet and “We have been through some “Conservative councillors have cil’s financial position. The Gordon Till on July 16. hard times, like all local authorities, many good ideas to pursue, but we remaining £105,000 is being trans- Rachel Curley cooked for 20 but that is all the more reason to will not put at risk the financial sta- ferred to reserves. We will continue guests in the garden at Lyngs Close. demonstrate prudence. bility of the council and the provi- to act in the interest of all taxpayers • Tenterden Dance Academy The club meets again at the village “We are disappointed that all Lib- sion of its core services. and protect the core services that we hall at 5pm on August 20. Call Sue eral Democrat, Labour and some in- “The council has taken a decision, know matter to every resident of the Gerrish on 01622 814159. dependent councillors chose to which we believe is not in the best borough.” • Family Roller Disco • Giant Obstacle Course • Toddler Time • Pool, Water Features, Flume & more!

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Tenterden - 247.5 x 181 - local paper.indd 1 25/07/2018 13:33 Maidstone Weald August 2018 13 News downsmail.co.uk Schools trust Isabel set for Malawi A student is hoping the public will help to get her on her way to Africa on a mission to improve the lives of those in Malawi. Isabel Coltham (15), from Linden Road, will be building permanent homes, installing water pumps and helping farmers care for their stock as forms merger part of a four-week project. But before she boards her FUTURE Schools Trust (FST), on a one-year deal in August 2016 – plane next summer, she has to which runs two of the town’s was linked to the merger plan. raise £4,000 for her trip, which biggest secondary schools, has Cornwallis is rated as a good will include a wildlife conserva- merged with another organisation. school by Ofsted, while New Line tion project. Downs Mail has learned that FST, Learning requires improvement. Isabel, a student at The Corn- the umbrella for Cornwallis and However, NLL was praised recently wallis Academy in Maidstone, New Line Learning academies, has for progress in key areas. said: “This trip offers me a great become part of a large chain based FST, which also includes the Tiger opportunity to make a signifi- in Richmond, Surrey, and will now Primary School, becomes part of the cant difference in the world and trade under the name Every Child, ECEDT on September 1. The schools I am determined to make my Every Day Trust (ECEDT). will run normally day-to-day, al- fund-raising campaign fun and Education observers claim the though parents and students have interactive.” merger is more likely an acquisition been warned of “some short-term Already, she is holding weekly and an acknowledgement that FST upheaval”. cake sales at Coxheath church was allegedly failing. Head teachers will continue to run and has plans to stage a three- FST explained: “In an increasingly their schools, but will form a leader- legged race. challenging educational landscape, ship group to develop collaboration. Her enthusiasm to raise the Future Schools Trust has been look- Kent education expert Peter Read fee for her trip of a lifetime has ing at the benefits of joining with an- said: “Future Schools Trust was, MP Helen Grant and Isabel Coltham already won her the support of other multi-academy trust. frankly, failing. This sounds less like Maidstone and Weald MP Helen Grant. “We believe this route would pro- a merger and more of an acquisition. Mrs Grant said: “Isabel is a delightful and mature young woman and I vide the best opportunity to enable “We have seen in other parts of know she will make the most of this opportunity and that it will provide us to share good practice and to fur- the country that a perfectly good her with experiences she will never forget. I also know that she and her ther improve standards across the school becomes a multi-academy team will be undertaking vitally important work to improve the lives of board.” trust, acquires more schools, and the Malawian people.” It is not known if the December proceeds to muck all of them up.” Anyone who would like to support Isabel with her fundraising should 2017 departure of FST chief execu- Downs Mail approached FST for a go to www.gofundme.com/svcm65-malawi-expedition-2019. tive Joshua Coleman – who arrived comment but it declined.

14 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk News Councillor not Flying flag with Pride FORMER Invicta Grammar School pupil Cllr Emily Fermor has been burst- ing with pride after the rainbow flag was flown over the town hall. guilty of assault Now the Lib Dem borough councillor is hoping to engage with the LGBT community for Pride Week in 2019. A BOROUGH councillor has been “When we’re out canvassing, peo- The Oxford graduate (pic- cleared of assaulting a 12-year-old ple have been asking after him. He tured) said: “We're looking into boy during a ball game. is not only a very hard-working putting on more of a celebra- Postman Richard Webb (43) lost councillor but a really decent man.” tion next year for Pride Week in the Liberal Democrat whip and was Cllr Gill Fort, the Conservative Maidstone. I’d really like to suspended from member for Leeds, said at the time reach out to the LGBT commu- the party while of his arrest: “Most people find this nity in Maidstone to try and his case went to pretty hard to believe – he’s really make this happen, so hopefully court. well-liked by members of all parties. this will help. The allegation He comes across as a very dedi- “I was over the moon that stemmed from an cated, hard-working guy.” Maidstone Borough Council is incident at Cox- Cllr Webb had to scale back his flying the Pride flag above the heath village hall, public duties while his court case, town hall for the first time this where he was a which was heard before Maidstone year. The flag celebrates our volunteer, in November last year. magistrates, was pending. LGBT community and sends Cllr Webb, a popular member (for He told a news outlet after his ac- the message loud and clear Coxheath) of Maidstone Borough quittal: “I want to return to my life that love is love. Council, told Downs Mail at the before November. There were defi- “If it brightens just one per- time he vigorously denied the accu- nite black times and my mind has son's day, then we have suc- sations levelled against him. been all over the place.” ceeded.” He had been volunteering at the Cllr Webb, of Clock House Rise, The flag-flying received cross-party support, although there were some hall when there was an altercation will be under pressure to hold onto “grumbles” from the Tory ranks, she claimed. during a ball game. We understand his seat, having secured only a nar- Cllr Fermor, who lives in Coxheath, added: “This was a great demon- the child reported it to a parent who row margin of 53 votes over the stration of councillors putting their political differences aside in the in- then notified police. Conservatives in 2015. terests of residents of the borough. Lib Dem colleague Emily Fermor, His Lib Dem colleague Brian Mor- “It was very disappointing to hear some opposing grumbles from the who also represents Coxheath, said: timer lost his seat to the Tories this Conservative benches, but I don't like to think that the few who were neg- “The local Lib Dems are delighted to year and Coxheath & Hunton is on ative about Pride spoke for their group as a whole.” have Richard back in the fold. the list of Tory targets in May 2019.

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Maidstone Weald August 2018 15 News downsmail.co.uk Bingo night A BINGO evening is to be held by Scouts in Headcorn to raise money Warning to boaters as for the World Jamboree in West Virginia next year. The fundraiser takes place at the village hall at 7.45pm on Septem- seal spoed in river ber 22 and tickets are £6. There is a bar on the night for al- A SEAL has been spotted swim- coholic drinks, but participants are ming in the river Medway be- advised to bring their own nibbles. tween and the Call 01622 891945 or 07944668802 Allington Lock. to reserve a ticket. The animal was spotted by local river boaters, who notified other users in an effort to keep the seal Scouts’ sale safe from any accidental harm. SCOUTS will be holding a boot fair Local wildlife experts say it is at the Headcorn Aerodrome on “most likely” to be a common seal, Sunday, August 26. but why it travelled so far up- Entrance for traders in cars, small stream from the point at which the Ray Lewis, of the Kent Medway joins the Thames estuary vans and trailers is £10 Wildlife Trust and left, beyond Sheerness and the Isle of But larger vehicles, such as lor- a common seal ries or large trailers, will be Grain is not fully understood. charged £15. River Medway Boaters posted one is likely to be a common seal, feed on fish and crustaceans. on Twitter: “A seal has been spot- at this time of year in the River “You could argue that this warm Gates open at 6.30am and stall ted in the river between Farleigh Medway. “ spell of weather could have driven holders can pay on the day. and Allington locks. “They will enter through the es- them inland to find food, or maybe “This is not that uncommon and tuary and travel upstream to go they have simply lost their way.” Treasure hunt has been seen a few times before, foraging for food. It is likely that Sightings of seals are usual in es- but please navigate with care. the Medway appeals to them be- tuarine waters and have been re- THE parish church at Headcorn They tend to follow boats up from cause there are places where they ported at the Medway City Estate holds a treasure hunt on Sunday the tidal side and will soon follow can haul themselves onto the in recent years. September 9. them back down. Thanks.” banks and shores. A decade ago, a seal was affec- Further details will be displayed Ray Lewis, of the Kent Wildlife “Common seals are not strictly tionately named “Simon” by locals on posters in the village nearer to Trust, told the Downs Mail: “It is marine dependent and are likely to after it made several visits to the date. not unusual to see seals, and this have come into the Medway to Allington Lock.

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16 Maidstone Weald August 2018 Maidstone Weald August 2018 17 News | World War One downsmail.co.uk Remembering them all... IN JUST about every churchyard in every corner of Kent, there is a simple stone with names of men, young and old, who went away and did not return, writes Simon Finlay. And at the top of these lists, all chiselled neatly and spelt correctly, are a set of dates: 1914-1918. There are sometimes clutches of several men with the same sur- name – brothers, fathers and sons, cousins. Coincidences, perhaps. How many knew what they were going into? And would those long lines of volunteers in 1914 have been quite so ready to surrender their all if they had known? There were the so-called “pals” – battalions designed to keep locally enlisted friends, neighbours and colleagues together. Pals were ex- pedient and cheap for the military top brass to mobilise and train, but Soldiers who were stationed near Maidstone during World War One suffered heavy casualties on the battlefield. Those lists on the war memorials But there were roles at home, too the effort this November to visit a lies’ stories, whether your relatives can be very long, indeed. – land workers, market gardeners, local war grave. She writes: “I fought or not. If you have a photo of The places they left could have hospital volunteers or those who know not everyone can make a trip them, so much the better. Perhaps been in Maidstone, East Malling, had to manage daily shortages of of pilgrimage to the battlefields, your local society, Scout troop or Aylesford, Headcorn or Lenham. food and fuel. Too often, these folk but here in Kent, you are never fur- church is holding a memorial serv- Their lives were shaped by their are forgotten. ther than three miles from a war ice or concert? Get in contact and we sheer ordinariness until they were Elsewhere on these pages, The grave.” will do our best to publicise it. thrust into a conflict unimaginable Commonwealth War Graves Com- To mark the centenary of the So, drop us a line at simon.fin- to anyone other than those who en- mission’s Director General, Victo- Great War, Downs Mail would [email protected], or call us dured it. ria Wallace, implores us to make very much love to hear your fami- on 01622 734735. Race to repair Meet the town’s everyday heroes war memorial AS PART of this year’s commemora- expensive once 190,000 miners had IT IS hoped collection boxes and do- tions to mark the end of WWI, two joined up. Meat shortages and ra- nations will raise the rest of the walking tours have been devised to tioning are explained in Fisher Street, money needed to refurbish West explore the landmarks around the home to Frederick Baker’s butcher’s. Malling’s war memorial for the cen- county town. BURGUNDY TRAIL tenary of the end of WWl. Each stop allows the walker to learn THIS three-mile walk starts at Lock- A crowd-funding appeal has so something about the ordinariness of meadow, the site of the livestock and far raised £4,500 – just over half the the lives of soldiers, conscripts and vol- food market in the years before WW1. cost – but as work needs to start be- unteers before the war. Across the river at All Saints’ fore the month is out, time is tight. The trails are presented by lottery- Church, we learn of bell-ringer Rev David Green, vicar of St funded Kent In WW1. Leonard Startup’s death, aged 33, in Mary’s, said: “We hope the collecting BLUE TRAIL action in 1917 and the role of John tins will get us over the £8,700 finish THIS trail, which is just under two Gibb, from Knightrider Street, as med- line, but time is of the essence.” miles long, starts at the Brickmaker’s ical officer and surgeon at Hayle The memorial was built in 1921 at Arms in Perryfield Street, where Ernest Place, Maidstone. a cost of £525 and 7d, donated by the Dalton, aged just 15, enlisted claim- Church Street was home to air me- public, and plays a central role in ing to be more than three years older. Edward Geoffrey who survived injuries chanic Hubert Arthur, who served in Remembrance Day services. The He was discovered to be under age on the Western Front. the Royal Naval Air Service. facelift will ensure it last another 100 and sent home in 1916. The trail passes St Luke’s Church, During the autumn of 1914, the years, says Rev Green. Peel Street was home to Henry where an unnamed curate won the West Kent Yeomanry was billeted at To make a donation visit Just Giv- Charles Price (45), of the Lincolnshire Military Medal. the school in Union Street, while chil- ing and enter bit.ly/wmwarmem, or Regiment, who is commemorated in Allen Street, where the Henry Davis dren were helping to harvest crops. post an envelope marked for the war Arras. He was killed a few months bakery once stood, is the ideal place Tailor Henry Taylor worked in Week memorial through the door of the short of the armistice. A few doors to recall the shortages of imported US Street. He was promoted to captain vicarage in the High Street. down, William John served on the flour caused by U-boat action. The after being awarded the Military The town council has agreed to Western Front and saw the war’s final government milled British cereals to Cross in Macedonia. pay for a 6ft Tommy silhouette to weeks as prisoner of war. He was de- make what was called “national The walk continues to the war me- be placed on the mound behind the mobbed in 1919. bread”. In Wheeler Street, prison morial, and the home of milkman Vic- war memorial. The aluminium Further along Peel Street lived Ethel warder Thomas Pargeter – also in the tor Startup, son of Leonard. Victor commemorative images are appear- Brooker, daughter of a greengrocer, VAD – achieved an award for rescuing survived the war as a frontline ing at key locations across the coun- who was a nursing carer for the Vol- someone from a well in Maidstone. stretcher-bearer and a prisoner. try to mark the centenary and raise untary Aid Detachment (VAD). James Street remembers the short- To discover more about the £15m for the Armed Forces and In Road, walkers will learn of age of coal, which became scarce and trails, go to www.kentww1.com. mental health charities.

18 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News | World War One downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk World War One | News Remembering them all... Pay respects at IN JUST about every churchyard in every corner of Kent, there is a simple stone with names of men, young and old, who went away and did not return, writes Simon Finlay. local war grave And at the top of these lists, all chiselled neatly and spelt correctly, By Victoria Wallace are a set of dates: 1914-1918. There are sometimes clutches of WHEREVER I’ve been throughout the centenary several men with the same sur- name – brothers, fathers and sons, period, I have found lads in our cemeteries and cousins. Coincidences, perhaps. on our memorials from the Maidstone area. How many knew what they were Whether they served with the fighting itself. going into? And would those long Queen’s Own or The Buffs on the Sometimes our graves tell the lines of volunteers in 1914 have Somme or at Passchendaele; or in story of Empire – I spotted Arthur been quite so ready to surrender the Royal Navy at Jutland, this area Friday, buried in Winnipeg, their all if they had known? lost a huge number of young men. Canada, last month, presumably There were the so-called “pals” – Just take one village – Holling- after emigrating. He must have battalions designed to keep locally bourne – and you can find its sons served in the Great War and died enlisted friends, neighbours and a war grave. Victor is buried in but please take 10 minutes and pop the length of the Western Front, as later of wounds. colleagues together. Pals were ex- Hollingbourne churchyard, along- into your local churchyard to see well as further afield in Baghdad Many young men did make it pedient and cheap for the military side five other casualties of WWI, Victor and his comrades. To me, and Alexandria. home, only to succumb to wounds top brass to mobilise and train, but including an early flyer. There are that is true remembrance. Soldiers who were stationed near Maidstone during World War One When I’m in Dar es Salaam, in or the flu before they were demo- suffered heavy casualties on the some in almost every churchyard To find them, have a look at our Tanzania, this summer, I will pause bilised. One such was a young far- battlefield. and every municipal cemetery. website www.cwgc.org and click by another grave. Ronald Wilson rier, Victor Philpott, who tended Those lists on the war memorials But there were roles at home, too the effort this November to visit a lies’ stories, whether your relatives This November, when we reach on “find cemeteries”. was born in Hollingbourne in 1881, the war horses. can be very long, indeed. – land workers, market gardeners, local war grave. She writes: “I fought or not. If you have a photo of the 100th anniversary of the Victoria Wallace is the Director but fell fighting with the Rhodesia I know not everyone can make a The places they left could have hospital volunteers or those who know not everyone can make a trip them, so much the better. Perhaps armistice and you buy your poppy, General of the Commonwealth Regiment in East Africa, during a trip of pilgrimage to the battle- been in Maidstone, East Malling, had to manage daily shortages of of pilgrimage to the battlefields, your local society, Scout troop or do join in with parades, and watch War Graves Commission and lives terrible campaign in which as fields, but here in Kent, you are Aylesford, Headcorn or Lenham. food and fuel. Too often, these folk but here in Kent, you are never fur- church is holding a memorial serv- the amazing 3D film that Peter in Maidstone with her husband many men died of disease as of never further than three miles from Their lives were shaped by their are forgotten. ther than three miles from a war ice or concert? Get in contact and we Jackson has restored to full colour; and two daughters. sheer ordinariness until they were Elsewhere on these pages, The grave.” will do our best to publicise it. thrust into a conflict unimaginable Commonwealth War Graves Com- To mark the centenary of the So, drop us a line at simon.fin- to anyone other than those who en- mission’s Director General, Victo- Great War, Downs Mail would [email protected], or call us dured it. ria Wallace, implores us to make very much love to hear your fami- on 01622 734735. Top honour for officer IN November 1917, in Palestine, Hunton man Lt Col Arthur Drum- Race to repair mond Borton led his battalion into Meet the town’s everyday heroes a dawn attack against a strongly- war memorial AS PART of this year’s commemora- expensive once 190,000 miners had held enemy position under wither- IT IS hoped collection boxes and do- tions to mark the end of WWI, two joined up. Meat shortages and ra- ing fire until it was captured. nations will raise the rest of the walking tours have been devised to tioning are explained in Fisher Street, Later, he led a party of volunteers money needed to refurbish West explore the landmarks around the home to Frederick Baker’s butcher’s. against a battery of field guns in ac- Malling’s war memorial for the cen- county town. tion at point-blank range, again BURGUNDY TRAIL showing fearless leadership during tenary of the end of WWl. Each stop allows the walker to learn THIS three-mile walk starts at Lock- How women kept us fed the Battle of Gaza. A crowd-funding appeal has so something about the ordinariness of meadow, the site of the livestock and His courage won him the Victoria far raised £4,500 – just over half the the lives of soldiers, conscripts and vol- food market in the years before WW1. THE families of women who down barriers and forged farm- cost – but as work needs to start be- unteers before the war. Across the river at All Saints’ worked on the land in Kent a cen- land paths for those girls to fol- Cross, the highest military medal for fore the month is out, time is tight. The trails are presented by lottery- Church, we learn of bell-ringer tury ago are being called on to low years later, in WWII. Facing bravery. Rev David Green, vicar of St funded Kent In WW1. Leonard Startup’s death, aged 33, in help celebrate the vital role their suspicion and even hostility, Last year, on the centenary, his Mary’s, said: “We hope the collecting BLUE TRAIL action in 1917 and the role of John relatives played during the Great these girls battled on to ensure admirers gathered to remember his tins will get us over the £8,700 finish THIS trail, which is just under two Gibb, from Knightrider Street, as med- War. Britain had food to sustain it.” gallantry, his defiance and his con- line, but time is of the essence.” miles long, starts at the Brickmaker’s ical officer and surgeon at Hayle The Old Chalk New Downs In Kent, most women were tempt for danger. Local firm The The memorial was built in 1921 at Arms in Perryfield Street, where Ernest Place, Maidstone. project, based in Lock Lane, San- given jobs milking cows or in the Stone Shop, in East Farleigh, spon- a cost of £525 and 7d, donated by the Dalton, aged just 15, enlisted claim- Church Street was home to air me- dling, is hoping to gather stories fields. Some were carters or sored the installation of a memorial public, and plays a central role in ing to be more than three years older. Edward Geoffrey who survived injuries chanic Hubert Arthur, who served in and old photographs (like this) of plough-women, market garden- plaque in the grounds of Hunton Remembrance Day services. The He was discovered to be under age on the Western Front. the Royal Naval Air Service. those who served on the Home ers, hay-makers or in the Timber primary school. achievements of Lt Col Borton.” facelift will ensure it last another 100 and sent home in 1916. The trail passes St Luke’s Church, During the autumn of 1914, the Front from 1914-1918. Corps, earning the nickname of The unveiling was attended by Also there was the then Mayor of years, says Rev Green. Peel Street was home to Henry where an unnamed curate won the West Kent Yeomanry was billeted at The project, which aims to Lumber Jills. members of the Borton family, in- Maidstone, Cllr Malcom Greer, as To make a donation visit Just Giv- Charles Price (45), of the Lincolnshire Military Medal. the school in Union Street, while chil- show the heritage value of our Hilary said: “I would love to cluding Major General Nicholas Bor- well as Maidstone borough council- ing and enter bit.ly/wmwarmem, or Regiment, who is commemorated in Allen Street, where the Henry Davis dren were helping to harvest crops. landscape, coincides with the an- hear from anyone who has a ton DSO MBE, as well as Lance Sgt lors and all the pupils of Hunton post an envelope marked for the war Arras. He was killed a few months bakery once stood, is the ideal place Tailor Henry Taylor worked in Week niversary of the end of the war story, or memorabilia from Beharry VC, who served with the school, who sang the national an- memorial through the door of the short of the armistice. A few doors to recall the shortages of imported US Street. He was promoted to captain and the success of the suffragette women working on the farms in Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment. them during the ceremony. vicarage in the High Street. down, William John served on the flour caused by U-boat action. The after being awarded the Military movement in 1918. Kent during the First World Gordon Newton, owner of the The idea for the plaque came frm The town council has agreed to Western Front and saw the war’s final government milled British cereals to Cross in Macedonia. Spokesman Hilary Hunter says War.” Stone Shop, recalled: “It was a former local borough councillor pay for a 6ft Tommy silhouette to weeks as prisoner of war. He was de- make what was called “national The walk continues to the war me- many more people are familiar The project is part of the great honour to meet Maj Gen Bor- Brian Mortimer, who was able to be placed on the mound behind the mobbed in 1919. bread”. In Wheeler Street, prison morial, and the home of milkman Vic- with stories of the British Land group’s work to raise awareness ton and his family and Lance Sgt track down Maj Gen Borton, a dis- war memorial. The aluminium Further along Peel Street lived Ethel warder Thomas Pargeter – also in the tor Startup, son of Leonard. Victor Girls of WWII. of Kent’s historic chalk grass- Beharry, who suffered horrendous tant cousin of the VC holder. commemorative images are appear- Brooker, daughter of a greengrocer, VAD – achieved an award for rescuing survived the war as a frontline “What is less well-known is the lands and to protect them. injuries when he won his VC. But Lt Col Borton survived the war but tale of their predecessors; brave Send your WWI agricultural ing at key locations across the coun- who was a nursing carer for the Vol- someone from a well in Maidstone. stretcher-bearer and a prisoner. you’d never have known it. It was a died in 1933, aged 49, at South- try to mark the centenary and raise women of the latter years of memories to hilary.hunter untary Aid Detachment (VAD). James Street remembers the short- To discover more about the lovely day and a privilege to be part wold in Suffolk. He is buried in the £15m for the Armed Forces and World War One, who broke @kent.gov.uk. In Boxley Road, walkers will learn of age of coal, which became scarce and trails, go to www.kentww1.com. of this important event to mark the churchyard at Hunton. mental health charities.

Maidstone Weald August 2018 19 Barbeque and Cocktail Evening - 4 pm - Sunday 26th August Summer Dining & Events

The Kent & East Sussex Railway, the Aerodromes dream is to give is inviting visitors and local everyone an opportunity to residents to bring their family along experience the thrill and beauty of to enjoy a weekend of Hopping Fun the skies above us by either flight, at Bodiam Station in East Sussex on hot air balloons and parachuting. The Hop Pole Sat. 8th and Sun. 9th September. The aim of the team is to bring The railway’s heritage steam trains varied types of events and shows to Nettlestead Green will run each day between the airfield with an aerial twist, so Tenterden and Bodiam stations all generations and walks of life can Mark and Kirsty welcome you to e Hop Pole with trains every 45 minutes. enjoy this beautiful countryside. See Inn located in Nettlestead Green. Visitors can take a walk through the www.headcornevents.co.uk for We pride ourselves on our freshly cooked food Hop Gardens and try their hand at details of all forthcoming events. and homemade desserts. picking hops. Children can also A carvery is served six days a week Tuesday to enjoy face painting, swing boat rides The Clothworkers Arms, Sutton Sunday and our a la carte menu is also available. and games amoungst other Valence offers award-winning ales Large parties are catered for and we have a large activities. Live musicians and local and stunning panoramic views. conservatory dining area. dancing groups will be performing With its hilltop location affording a through the weekend. There will be fantastic view of the Weald of Kent, A sheltered beer garden with swings and a slide a selection of heritage vehicles on it’s a great place to watch the sun go for your children to play on whilst you relax. display. Please go to www.kesr.org.uk down over a pint - and the ideal for ticket details and earlybird offers. spot for walkers and cyclists to find 01622 816916 rest and refreshment while The team behind Headcorn exploring the Kent countryside. An For further details visit: www.hop-pole-nettlestead.co.uk Special Events, have joined excellent selection of Shepherd together from varied backgrounds Neame lagers and ales are served Maidstone Road, Nettlestead Green, in film, television, radio, music and here, alongside a selection of spirits, Maidstone, Kent, ME18 5HH aviation. Jamie Freeman - owner of wines and soft drinks to satisfy all

COMBINED OPS SOUTHERN AIR SHOW MODEL SHOW 18 & 19 August 2018 8 & 9 September 2018 This unique event has a variety of vintage and modern aircraft displays, Featuring a stunning array of model aircraft, helicopters, ships, tank on the ground and in the air. A family event which includes static and other vehicles and a show ground packed with traders, offering military vehicles, living history re-enactment groups, arena events, everything you could possibly need for models. A must go to event military stalls, children’s entertainment and food stalls. for anyone with an interest in this fascinating hobby.

ALL OF THESE GREAT EVENTS WILL BE HELD AT: Headcorn Aerodrome, Shenley Road, Headcorn Ashford, Kent TN27 9HX HEADCORN For tickets & more information please contact us: special events headcornevents.co.uk 0845 652 6263 · [email protected]

20 Maidstone Weald August 2018 Summer The Bull Inn Dining & Events at Linton Overlooking the Weald of Kent with a view second to none, tastes. Also boasting its own we host a traditional carvery, 12pm now available to hire for weddings & receptions outdoor BBQ bar as well as the - 9pm, with all the classic trimmings enviable outlook over the Downs. you would expect from a traditional But the inside of the pub is every bit pub. The large beer garden and as inviting. patio seating areas at the rear of The Bull offer seating as well as The village of Linton is set in a lawns to admire the truly pleasant rural setting located south spectacular view and an ideal of Maidstone on the A229 Hastings setting for sunny summer evenings Road. It is here that The Bull Inn and weekends. is, and has been since well before 1674 when the first licensee was The Hop Pole Inn, Nettlestead is listed. The hub of village activity, a traditional country pub with a drawing local residents and tourists wood burner, a log sweeping bar, • Award winning garden alike to enjoy a fine range of drinks exposed brickwork and oak beams. • Real Kentish ales and a superb menu, all at realistic Walking through the bar and • Local produce prices. The Bull Inn has comfort- seating areas, the building opens out • Beautiful countryside setting able surroundings, simply oozing the into a large conservatory with a ambience of years gone by. Go along pretty fish pond that comes up to for food, drink or afternoon tea any the base of the conservatory. Out Tel: 01622 743612 for further details day of the week. There is an ever into the beautifully landscaped changing specials board, which garden over a small wooden bridge, Opening times Mon-Sat 11-11pm, contains more exciting and unusual there is a detached games room and Sun 12-10.30pm. Food served Mon - Sun 12-9pm dishes. These mouth-watering the top of the garden offers meals ensure that the menu offers beautiful views of countryside fields something new to even the most and open spaces. Lunchtime and www.thebullatlinton.co.uk regular of customers. On sundays Evening meals are available. Linton Hill, Linton, Nr Maidstone ME17 4AW CLOTHWORKERS ARMS

Come and join us in our lovely traditional pub set overlooking the stunning views of the Weald of Kent. Great selection of local and international beers and ales Our outside BBQ bar is a must in the Summer for all the family Live entertainment the last Friday and second Saturday of every month, plus special events - see our Facebook page for details.

• Live Sports on 2 screens • Dog friendly pub • Small gatherings catered for • Hot and cold snack menu available soon • Small gatherings catered for • 2 Dart boards and a pool table

Lower Road, Sutton Valence, ME17 3BL OAST HOUSES NEAR HEVER 01622 842589 HOPFEST Malcolm, Margaret and the Staff wish you a warm welcome! FAMILY FUN www.clothworkersarms.co.uk KENT8 TH & 9TH SEPTEMBER @clothworkersarms WHERE THEY www.kesr.org.ukGREW HOPS TO MAKE BEER

Maidstone Weald August 2018 21 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Changes facing our health care MANY significant health and social care services in more financially efficient (Kent NHS organisations over- Maidstone and across of Kent are facing major changes. spent by more than £100m last year). Most are linked to the Government’s transformation One of the main drivers is to reduce the immense and plan which is now being progressed across Kent and expensive pressures on hospitals and to treat and care for Medway, supported mainly by Kent and Medway’s eight patients in or closer to their own homes. GP-led, budget-holding Clinical Commissioning Groups, care organisations, Kent County Council and local au- Details of the transformation changes are beginning to thorities. emerge locally in reports from the NHS West Kent Clini- Key aims are to improve effectiveness of health and care cal Commissioning Group. services for the population and staff, and to make them Downs Mail has been looking at some key proposals… Staffing crisis KENT and Medway area has a GP surgeries shake-up shortage of NHS and social care staff. Nationally, one in 12 NHS posts is vacant and social care vacancy turnover is 26%. Kent and Medway as population increases area is worse, with 2,500 vacancies in secondary (mostly hospital) care, MAIDSTONE is likely to see new 45% of which are in nursing. It also or improved GP surgeries as West has the greatest percentage of GPs Kent Clinical Commissioning County-wide nearing retirement (29%). Group (CCG) reviews its estates The workforce strategy includes: plan to meet the needs of a rapidly commissioner rising population. Recruiting 130 international GPs, TALKS are underway to set up a The CCG is working with Maid- the first arriving this autumn. joint executive leadership and stone Council to refresh mapping of Two Kent universities establishing management team for the four housing developments over the next a medical school in Canterbury. GP-led budget-holding Clinical five years and this will inform more Developing a KCC information Commissioning Groups (West discussions with practices. and support hub for social care Kent, Medway, Dartford,Grave- The CCG estimates the population workers. sham and Swanley, and Swale) in its area will rise from 476,497 in A “Kent – Take a Different View” serving the western part of the recruitment campaign highlighting 2015 to 562,040 up to 2035, an 18% county. advantages of living and working in increase. The biggest growth is ex- This is part of the transforma- Kent and Medway. pected in Maidstone (863 extra a tion that could lead to a single year). The West Kent area is served by strategic commissioner for the Care hub plan seven clusters of GP practices serv- whole of Kent and Medway and WEST Kent could benefit from new MAIDSTONE WIDE further integration of health and ing Maidstone Central, Maidstone local care and wellbeing hubs, pro- Greensands Health Centre in social care commissioning. Wide, Malling, Weald, Tonbridge, Stockett Lane and Orchard Medical viding services outside hospitals. Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. The four groups will retain They would help frail patients es- Centre, Coxheath, submitted a their sovereignty and accounta- The CCG is discussing require- premises development plan using pecially, and will be designed to ments with borough and district bility, possibly enhanced. Pri- support multi-disciplinary staff S106 funding. Stage 1 application councils and ensuring section 106 mary care commissioning will teams working together. Staff, pa- has been approved with no financial remain the responsibility of each house developer contributions are consequence to the CCG at this tients, the public and stakeholders group. available where possible for infra- stage. The practice can nowprogress attended public events in June and The groups fear that failure to structure improvement. an application for Stage 2 approval July to give views on potential serv- make this change could result in The number of proposals from GP for submission within 12 months. ices and the locations. an unstainable local healthcare practices wishing to improve or re- Len Valley Practice has discussed system, which is unable to en- place premises is expected to exceed available S106 funding and will con- sure high-quality accessible Forum set up financial support available. sider using it to expand capacity. services or deliver improved out- AN elected members’ forum is The CCG has produced an Headcorn Surgery has submitted comes and reduced inequalities. being established in West Kent so overview of each cluster: plans to use S106 funds to improve that borough, district and KCC MAIDSTONE CENTRAL security for patients and staff. councillors can contribute with NHS The College practice is finalising MALLING and care staff to problem solving. Best practice plans for expanding its premises, West Malling Group Practice is as- KENT could benefit from a Eu- Aims include integrating services, supported by S106 contributions. sessing requirements to meet popu- tackling causes of ill health and ropean research programme in- Blackthorn Medical Centre plans lation growth. Development at volving UK (represented by maximising the wellbeing of resi- to reconfigure and upgrade prem- Kings Hill over the next five years is dents. KCC, Kent Community Health ises for extra capacity. This is sup- expected to lead to about 1,500 new Foundation Trust and Medway ported by S106 contributions. patient registrations, increasing Community Healthcare), France, List is closed Bower Mount Medical Practice is pressure on the Kings Hill practice. Belgium and the Netherlands on THEAlbion practice, Maidstone, crit- using S106 funding to improve ac- Phoenix Medical Practice in international best practice. The icised by the Care Quality Commis- cess to the building. Burham, has submitted a develop- aim is to find solutions to chal- sion, has been authorised by NHS Aylesford Medical Practice is re- ment plan for a site in Peters Village. lenges associated with an ageing West Kent CCG to close its list to new configuring its premises to provide WEALD population and budget and patients for a year. Surrounding prac- additional capacity, supported by Marden Medical Centre is dis- workforce challenges. tices are being supportive. S106 funding. cussing the use of S106 funding.

22 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News | Health downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Apple festival Changes facing our health care POPULAR attraction Kent Life in Maidstone holds its Apple & Cider Award-winners Fayre on October 6 and 7, 2018, to MANY significant health and social care services in more financially efficient (Kent NHS organisations over- and nominees celebrate the annual harvest. who responded Maidstone and across of Kent are facing major changes. spent by more than £100m last year). Many varieties of apple, some 500 Most are linked to the Government’s transformation to the years old, are hand-picked from his- One of the main drivers is to reduce the immense and challenge for toric orchards days before the festi- plan which is now being progressed across Kent and expensive pressures on hospitals and to treat and care for Breast Cancer val. Medway, supported mainly by Kent and Medway’s eight patients in or closer to their own homes. Care Kent Visitors can try and buy from GP-led, budget-holding Clinical Commissioning Groups, about 35 varieties of apple as they care organisations, Kent County Council and local au- Details of the transformation changes are beginning to enjoy live music. There is also a free thorities. emerge locally in reports from the NHS West Kent Clini- apple cookbook featuring some old- Castle rewards teams for fashioned favourites. Key aims are to improve effectiveness of health and care cal Commissioning Group. Admission prices are: adults £9.95, services for the population and staff, and to make them Downs Mail has been looking at some key proposals… children (3 to 15 years) £8.25, con- cessions £8.95, family ticket (two breast cancer campaign adults and two children, or one adult and three children) £32.95. Staffing crisis BUSINESSES from the area who spoke of the pressure on funding The charity’s fund-raising co- Under threes and members free. For KENT and Medway area has a GP surgeries shake-up stepped up to the £1,000 challenge and thanked those taking part for ordinator for Kent, Helen Teare, further information, call 01622 shortage of NHS and social care for Breast Cancer Kent have been raising the money, which will go said: “It was really lovely to see Hi- 763936 or visit www.kentlife.org.uk staff. rewarded for their fund-raising towards the care of local patients. lary and Sue declared the winners. Nationally, one in 12 NHS posts is efforts at Leeds Castle. The largest amount was raised They have spent years staging vacant and social care vacancy The challenge raised £18,800, by the ladies from Business Legacy award ceremonies, but this was the Body found turnover is 26%. Kent and Medway as population increases with businesses from Maidstone, Ltd, which holds the Kent Women first time they’ve won a trophy.” A MAN has been found dead in the area is worse, with 2,500 vacancies Kings Hill, Snodland, in Business Awards and Kent Also completing the £1,000 chal- centre of Maidstone. in secondary (mostly hospital) care, MAIDSTONE is likely to see new or improved GP surgeries as West and the castle all taking part. Health and Beauty Awards. They lenge were: Vicki Cook’s Glowing Kent Police cordoned off the area 45% of which are in nursing. It also around Jubilee Square at 8.45am on has the greatest percentage of GPs Kent Clinical Commissioning County-wide Leeds Castle, which has sup- raised £5,400 from award dinners, Fitness, Maidstone; Genesis Care, Group (CCG) reviews its estates ported the charity for several years, raffles and donations. Hilary Steel, Kings Hill; Emma Young, from July 19, and flowers were left in his nearing retirement (29%). memory. It is understood the man The workforce strategy includes: plan to meet the needs of a rapidly commissioner played host to the awards presen- Sue Smith, Trisha Wood and Gill Harrietsham; Julie Aylett’s Zumba rising population. tation, attended by nominees, char- Huntley received the award. Fitness, Snodland; Intelligent may have been a rough sleeper. Recruiting 130 international GPs, TALKS are underway to set up a The CCG is working with Maid- ity trustees, guests and winners. Staff from Leeds Castle – the Building Automation’s Kent Ladies A statement said: “The death is the first arriving this autumn. joint executive leadership and stone Council to refresh mapping of The trustees of the charity – all Leeds Castle Lovelies – sold cakes, Against Breast Cancer team, from not being treated as suspicious and a Two Kent universities establishing management team for the four housing developments over the next consultants at Maidstone and Tun- held a staff disco and trekked to the Maidstone, and Sharon Prior’s Or- report will be completed for the a medical school in Canterbury. GP-led budget-holding Clinical five years and this will inform more bridge Wells Hospital Trust – top of Snowdon to collect £4,100. chids Occasions, at Harrietsham. coroner.” Developing a KCC information Commissioning Groups (West discussions with practices. and support hub for social care Kent, Medway, Dartford,Grave- The CCG estimates the population workers. sham and Swanley, and Swale) in its area will rise from 476,497 in A “Kent – Take a Different View” serving the western part of the recruitment campaign highlighting 2015 to 562,040 up to 2035, an 18% county. advantages of living and working in increase. The biggest growth is ex- This is part of the transforma- Kent and Medway. pected in Maidstone (863 extra a tion that could lead to a single year). The West Kent area is served by strategic commissioner for the Care hub plan seven clusters of GP practices serv- whole of Kent and Medway and WEST Kent could benefit from new MAIDSTONE WIDE further integration of health and ing Maidstone Central, Maidstone local care and wellbeing hubs, pro- Greensands Health Centre in social care commissioning. Wide, Malling, Weald, Tonbridge, Stockett Lane and Orchard Medical viding services outside hospitals. Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. The four groups will retain They would help frail patients es- Centre, Coxheath, submitted a their sovereignty and accounta- The CCG is discussing require- premises development plan using pecially, and will be designed to ments with borough and district bility, possibly enhanced. Pri- support multi-disciplinary staff S106 funding. Stage 1 application councils and ensuring section 106 mary care commissioning will teams working together. Staff, pa- has been approved with no financial remain the responsibility of each house developer contributions are consequence to the CCG at this tients, the public and stakeholders group. available where possible for infra- stage. The practice can nowprogress attended public events in June and The groups fear that failure to structure improvement. an application for Stage 2 approval July to give views on potential serv- make this change could result in The number of proposals from GP for submission within 12 months. ices and the locations. an unstainable local healthcare practices wishing to improve or re- Len Valley Practice has discussed system, which is unable to en- place premises is expected to exceed available S106 funding and will con- sure high-quality accessible Forum set up financial support available. sider using it to expand capacity. services or deliver improved out- AN elected members’ forum is The CCG has produced an Headcorn Surgery has submitted being established in West Kent so overview of each cluster: plans to use S106 funds to improve comes and reduced inequalities. that borough, district and KCC MAIDSTONE CENTRAL security for patients and staff. councillors can contribute with NHS The College practice is finalising MALLING and care staff to problem solving. Best practice plans for expanding its premises, West Malling Group Practice is as- KENT could benefit from a Eu- Aims include integrating services, supported by S106 contributions. sessing requirements to meet popu- tackling causes of ill health and ropean research programme in- Blackthorn Medical Centre plans lation growth. Development at volving UK (represented by maximising the wellbeing of resi- to reconfigure and upgrade prem- Kings Hill over the next five years is dents. KCC, Kent Community Health ises for extra capacity. This is sup- expected to lead to about 1,500 new Foundation Trust and Medway ported by S106 contributions. patient registrations, increasing Community Healthcare), France, List is closed Bower Mount Medical Practice is pressure on the Kings Hill practice. Belgium and the Netherlands on THEAlbion practice, Maidstone, crit- using S106 funding to improve ac- Phoenix Medical Practice in international best practice. The 01622 829183 Visit our East Farleigh showroom to view icised by the Care Quality Commis- cess to the building. Burham, has submitted a develop- aim is to find solutions to chal- sion, has been authorised by NHS Aylesford Medical Practice is re- ment plan for a site in Peters Village. lenges associated with an ageing www.balinea.co.uk our full range of beautiful bathrooms West Kent CCG to close its list to new configuring its premises to provide WEALD population and budget and patients for a year. Surrounding prac- additional capacity, supported by Marden Medical Centre is dis- workforce challenges. E: [email protected] Unit 5 Kilnbridge Works, Off Lower Road, East Farleigh, Maidstone Kent ME15 0HD tices are being supportive. S106 funding. cussing the use of S106 funding.

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Maidstone Weald August 2018 25 News downsmail.co.uk Van break-ins POLICE are investigating a number of van break-ins in Yalding. Mela celebrates town’s All four incidents happened overnight on Thursday, May 24, into Friday, May 25. Tools were stolen from a van diversity and values parked on a drive in Medway Av- enue, while a different van on the THE Maidstone Community Mela Mr Sandher said: “Finding the same road was also broken into. was a scorcher both on and off- funds to deliver the Mela has been An estate car parked in Collier stage at Whatman Park. an uphill struggle, to say the least. Street also reportedly had tools Thousands turned up for the “However, we were determined stolen and two tyres damaged at county town’s annual multi-cultural to bring the event back to Maidstone about 3.30am, while tools were also festival of song, food and dance. and judging by the attendance, we taken from a van in Lyngs Close. After months of fundraising by or- were right to do so.” Anyone with any information is ganisers Cohesion Plus and volun- He said the Mela had lost funding asked to call Kent Police on 01622 teers, the event was opened by from Maidstone Borough Council, 604100, quoting YY/17890/18. Maidstone’s Mayor Cllr David adding: “Valuable support has been Naghi and MP Helen Grant. provided by community groups and Mrs Grant MP spoke of the Mela’s volunteers to whom we are incredi- Murder suspect importance and paid tribute to for- bly grateful. Their support bolstered A MAN was arrested in Maidstone mer mayor Morel D’Souza, founder our drive to make sure the Mela was on July 25 on suspicion of murder. of the Mela, who died earlier this the best it could be.” The 29-year-old from Cardiff was year. A commemorative plaque was Mrs Grant said: “We’re a marvel- arrested at an address in the county presented to his wife Karin. lous community, all living and town in connection with the murder Mela artistic director Gurvinder working harmoniously, and we send of Malaciah Thomas. Sandher told festival-goers it was Mr a powerful message to a country Mr Thomas (20), died from multi- D’Souza’s dream for an event bring- Maidstone Malayee Group hurt by the divisions of Brexit and a ple stab wounds at a house in Bute- ing communities together to cele- world needing a counterpoint to ris- town, Cardiff, on Monday, July 23. brate their own uniqueness and Group, Reel Eire Irish Dancers, ing nationalism and xenophobia. Kent Police said: “Officers at- shared British values. Brazilian trio Lambrego and Cohe- “Cllr D’Souza was a visionary and tended a property in Hartnup Street The day saw music, food and sion Plus’s own Folkin Fusion his Mela must be preserved. I will in Maidstone during the evening of dance from all corners of the globe, Drumming Collective. be pressing for some local authority Wednesday, July 25, as part of en- including stage performers Dance The event was headlined by re-thinking about their decision to quiries being carried out to assist an- Asia, Kitka Bulgarian Folk Dance, world-renowned Bob Marley tribute support a separate festival at the ap- other police force.” Maidstone Nepalese Community act Tanni Browne. parent expense of our Mela.” Advertisement Feature Denture care to make you smile SB Denture Design Ltd (formerly known as SB repairs and adjustments through to new sets we Dental Laboratory) are now pleased to offer our can offer a complete denture care service. SB Denture Design Ltd offer services directly to the public. 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26 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk County Show |News Van break-ins POLICE are investigating a number of van break-ins in Yalding. Mela celebrates town’s All four incidents happened overnight on Thursday, May 24, into Friday, May 25. Tools were stolen from a van diversity and values parked on a drive in Medway Av- enue, while a different van on the THE Maidstone Community Mela Mr Sandher said: “Finding the same road was also broken into. was a scorcher both on and off- funds to deliver the Mela has been An estate car parked in Collier stage at Whatman Park. an uphill struggle, to say the least. Street also reportedly had tools Thousands turned up for the “However, we were determined stolen and two tyres damaged at county town’s annual multi-cultural to bring the event back to Maidstone about 3.30am, while tools were also festival of song, food and dance. and judging by the attendance, we taken from a van in Lyngs Close. After months of fundraising by or- were right to do so.” Anyone with any information is ganisers Cohesion Plus and volun- He said the Mela had lost funding asked to call Kent Police on 01622 teers, the event was opened by from Maidstone Borough Council, 604100, quoting YY/17890/18. Maidstone’s Mayor Cllr David adding: “Valuable support has been Naghi and MP Helen Grant. provided by community groups and Friends of Kent Life Mick Steer, Andrew Collins, Frank Juett, Dave Phillips Marion Regan, of Hugh Lowe Farms, , who won a first prize for Mrs Grant MP spoke of the Mela’s volunteers to whom we are incredi- and Claude Martin with a gypsy caravan they spent two years renovating her strawberry variety, Malling Allure Murder suspect importance and paid tribute to for- bly grateful. Their support bolstered A MAN was arrested in Maidstone mer mayor Morel D’Souza, founder our drive to make sure the Mela was on July 25 on suspicion of murder. of the Mela, who died earlier this the best it could be.” The 29-year-old from Cardiff was year. A commemorative plaque was Mrs Grant said: “We’re a marvel- arrested at an address in the county presented to his wife Karin. lous community, all living and Sun shines on county show town in connection with the murder Mela artistic director Gurvinder working harmoniously, and we send of Malaciah Thomas. Sandher told festival-goers it was Mr a powerful message to a country Mr Thomas (20), died from multi- SCORCHING hot weather and England’s unexpected run of success in the World Cup led to a D’Souza’s dream for an event bring- Maidstone Malayee Group hurt by the divisions of Brexit and a ple stab wounds at a house in Bute- ing communities together to cele- world needing a counterpoint to ris- slight dip in visitor numbers at the Kent County Show. town, Cardiff, on Monday, July 23. brate their own uniqueness and Group, Reel Eire Irish Dancers, ing nationalism and xenophobia. Kent Police said: “Officers at- shared British values. Brazilian trio Lambrego and Cohe- “Cllr D’Souza was a visionary and But tens of thousands still poured tended a property in Hartnup Street The day saw music, food and sion Plus’s own Folkin Fusion his Mela must be preserved. I will into the Detling showground to in Maidstone during the evening of dance from all corners of the globe, Drumming Collective. be pressing for some local authority enjoy 450 stands and the daily high- Wednesday, July 25, as part of en- including stage performers Dance The event was headlined by re-thinking about their decision to light of the Household Cavalry Mu- quiries being carried out to assist an- Asia, Kitka Bulgarian Folk Dance, world-renowned Bob Marley tribute support a separate festival at the ap- sical Ride taking centre stage. other police force.” Maidstone Nepalese Community act Tanni Browne. parent expense of our Mela.” More than 74,000 people from across the country converged on the show on July 6, 7 and 8. Organisers created fan zones across the site, so that people could watch England’s victory over Swe- den on the Saturday afternoon. A spokesman said: “The football, unexpectedly, and the heat probably did have an effect on numbers, but it was still a fantastic county show. The feedback has been brilliant. “We are receiving so many posi- tive comments from people and that has been great.” Next year sees the 90th Kent Above: Valley Park School pupils County Show and the organisers are Zara Collins (12), Melody Crute (11), already planning special anniver- Kurtis Newson (13), Harry Saunders sary events. (13) and James Bish (12) Lord Colgrain, show president, paid tribute to outgoing chairman Right: BBC Radio Kent’s Lembit Opik, Kevin Attwood, saying: “We are all indebted to his firm leadership and centre, chairs a discussion live on air passion, he will be missed.” at the Kent County Show

Morris dancers put on a display at the Kent County Show 2018

Right: Straw- berry grower Alastair Brooks with one of his winners

Maidstone Weald August 2018 27 News downsmail.co.uk Pitching in for sport in Kent A MASSIVE blueprint for the future of sport in Maidstone is now emerging at Maidstone Borough Council, following two years of local and national consultations, writes Dennis Fowle. In line with government require- ments, the council has commis- sioned and received two major Support for reports – one titled “Sports Facili- ties Strategy” and the other “Play- ing Pitch Strategy” – which are Mote clubs AS Maidstone Borough Council being considered by council com- (MBC) considers replacing or refur- mittees. bishing the town’s leisure centre – Once agreed, they will provide its condition is giving concerns – the evidence for reviews of the bor- suggestion is being made that the ough’s now-adopted Local Plan needs of the adjoining Mote Cricket and will be significant in the coun- Club and Maidstone Rugby Club cil’s development decisions, future should be reviewed at the same budgeting needs and grant fund- ment stations. Football – four adult pitches; time. The management operating ing applications. The Playing Field contract for the centre runs out in Strategy will need regular reviews four youth 11 v 11 pitches; four youth 9 v 9 pitches; two mini-soc- 2024. and updates. cer 7 v 7 pitches; two mini-soccer 5 The cricket club (two pitches) and The demand for sporting activi- v 5 pitches; a 3G turf pitch; rugby club (three pitches) have been ties is expected to increase as Maid- Sports halls – four badminton- trying for about 20 years to replace stone’s population expands by an sized sports halls (meeting Sport the100-year-pluspavilion,whichisin- estimated 22,380 by 2031. England requirement for maxi- adequate for modern needs and pre- Fitness and swimming feature mum flexibility); ventsapotentialreturnofKentcounty highly in public preferences, in a Cricket – three grass pitches (or cricket. borough where general participa- three artificial turf wickets, per- The two sports facility reports now tion rates in sport and physical ac- haps on existing sites); before MBC consider The Mote site, tivity are higher than county and Rugby Union – 1.5 pitches (arti- Mote Park and the problems facing regional averages. Almost 27% of ficial pitch to be considered); the clubs. They recommend support the population belong to sports Rugby League – 1.5 pitches; for both clubs. The Mote site is owned clubs (national average: 22%). Hockey – artificial grass pitches (in trust) by the cricket club and nego- The reports make detailed as- (perhaps resurfacing South Park seven sports: football, cricket, tiations continue over renewal of the expired50-yearlease/licencetorugby. sessments of “the quantity, quality, pitch and look at providing an rugby, rugby league, hockey, The reports consider the pitches accessibility and availability” of extra pitch); American football and lacrosse. and facilities could now be inade- Maidstone’s outdoor and indoor Lacrosse – a grass pitch and arti- It also puts forward many signif- quate for the rugby club and says the facilities, forecast needs for new ficial grass pitch. icant proposals for the sports, indi- club should be supported to set up its and improved facilities to 2031 and The report says there are no pro- vidual clubs and their sites, several own site. One possibility for a new set out options. jected additional facility needs for: of which are very costly in local site is an artificial grass pitch, at a The council aims to approve the squash, indoor and outdoor tennis, sporting terms. They are also pri- cost of about £850,000. final strategies, following consulta- indoor and outdoor bowls, athlet- oritised: high medium or low. The report suggests that an under- tions, in the next year and include ics tracks and American football. The report suggests capital and used football pitch in Mote Park near recommendations and action Some school sites could see revenue costs of new facilities The Mote could be converted for plans. greater use. could be provided through various rugby use. The report also gives high Facilities needed are shown as: The highly-detailed, 150-page means, including S106/Community priority to improving the pavilion Swimming pools – one 25m Playing Pitch Strategy takes a very Infrastructure Levy from new de- (£200k) and upgrading practice four-lane pool; close look at the pitches and facili- velopments locally and also from nets (£20k). Health and fitness – 187 equip- ties across the borough for these grant funding. Pontoon will help to keep cadets afloat MAIDSTONE Sea Cadets are de- ect and while it has been very lighted to have finally realised hard work, the culmination of their ambition of opening a new several months of hard work has pontoon on the river, after years finally come to a wonderful con- of financial constraints. clusion, with more than 100 Former town mayor Cllr Mal- guests present to witness the colm Greer made it his ambition launch. to raise the money that has “It is my hope that this facility eluded the cadets for more than will greatly enhance the experi- 30 years. ences of this Sea Cadet Unit, and On July 7, he attended the offi- attract more young people to join cial opening ceremony, along them.” with 100 guests, including the Councillor Greer raised more current mayor of Maidstone, Cllr than £100,000 for his chosen char- David Naghi. The group is pic- aspiration of this Sea Cadet Unit take to the water more fre- ities of the Blackthorn Trust, tured. for over 30 years, to have their quently. Kent Lung Awareness and the Cllr Greer said: “It has been the own pontoon, to enable them to “I decided to take on this proj- cadets during his year as mayor.

28 Maidstone Weald August 2018 News downsmail.co.uk Pitching in for sport in Kent A MASSIVE blueprint for the future of sport in Maidstone is now emerging at Maidstone Borough Council, following two years of local and national consultations, writes Dennis Fowle. In line with government require- ments, the council has commis- sioned and received two major Support for reports – one titled “Sports Facili- ties Strategy” and the other “Play- ing Pitch Strategy” – which are Mote clubs AS Maidstone Borough Council being considered by council com- (MBC) considers replacing or refur- mittees. bishing the town’s leisure centre – Once agreed, they will provide its condition is giving concerns – the evidence for reviews of the bor- suggestion is being made that the ough’s now-adopted Local Plan needs of the adjoining Mote Cricket and will be significant in the coun- Club and Maidstone Rugby Club cil’s development decisions, future should be reviewed at the same budgeting needs and grant fund- ment stations. Football – four adult pitches; time. The management operating ing applications. The Playing Field contract for the centre runs out in Strategy will need regular reviews four youth 11 v 11 pitches; four youth 9 v 9 pitches; two mini-soc- 2024. and updates. cer 7 v 7 pitches; two mini-soccer 5 The cricket club (two pitches) and The demand for sporting activi- v 5 pitches; a 3G turf pitch; rugby club (three pitches) have been ties is expected to increase as Maid- Sports halls – four badminton- trying for about 20 years to replace stone’s population expands by an sized sports halls (meeting Sport the100-year-pluspavilion,whichisin- estimated 22,380 by 2031. England requirement for maxi- adequate for modern needs and pre- Fitness and swimming feature mum flexibility); ventsapotentialreturnofKentcounty highly in public preferences, in a Cricket – three grass pitches (or cricket. borough where general participa- three artificial turf wickets, per- The two sports facility reports now tion rates in sport and physical ac- haps on existing sites); before MBC consider The Mote site, tivity are higher than county and Rugby Union – 1.5 pitches (arti- Mote Park and the problems facing regional averages. Almost 27% of ficial pitch to be considered); the clubs. They recommend support the population belong to sports Rugby League – 1.5 pitches; for both clubs. The Mote site is owned clubs (national average: 22%). Hockey – artificial grass pitches (in trust) by the cricket club and nego- The reports make detailed as- (perhaps resurfacing South Park seven sports: football, cricket, tiations continue over renewal of the sessments of “the quantity, quality, pitch and look at providing an rugby, rugby league, hockey, expired50-yearlease/licencetorugby. The reports consider the pitches accessibility and availability” of extra pitch); American football and lacrosse. and facilities could now be inade- Maidstone’s outdoor and indoor Lacrosse – a grass pitch and arti- It also puts forward many signif- quate for the rugby club and says the facilities, forecast needs for new ficial grass pitch. icant proposals for the sports, indi- club should be supported to set up its and improved facilities to 2031 and The report says there are no pro- vidual clubs and their sites, several own site. One possibility for a new set out options. jected additional facility needs for: of which are very costly in local site is an artificial grass pitch, at a The council aims to approve the squash, indoor and outdoor tennis, sporting terms. They are also pri- cost of about £850,000. final strategies, following consulta- indoor and outdoor bowls, athlet- oritised: high medium or low. The report suggests that an under- tions, in the next year and include ics tracks and American football. The report suggests capital and used football pitch in Mote Park near recommendations and action Some school sites could see revenue costs of new facilities The Mote could be converted for plans. greater use. could be provided through various rugby use. The report also gives high Facilities needed are shown as: The highly-detailed, 150-page means, including S106/Community priority to improving the pavilion Swimming pools – one 25m Playing Pitch Strategy takes a very Infrastructure Levy from new de- (£200k) and upgrading practice four-lane pool; close look at the pitches and fac velopments locally and also from ili- nets (£20k). Health and fitness – 187 equip- ties across the borough for these grant funding. Pontoon will help to keep cadets afloat MAIDSTONE Sea Cadets are de- ect and while it has been very lighted to have finally realised hard work, the culmination of their ambition of opening a new several months of hard work has pontoon on the river, after years finally come to a wonderful con- of financial constraints. clusion, with more than 100 Former town mayor Cllr Mal- guests present to witness the colm Greer made it his ambition launch. to raise the money that has “It is my hope that this facility eluded the cadets for more than will greatly enhance the experi- 30 years. ences of this Sea Cadet Unit, and On July 7, he attended the offi- attract more young people to join cial opening ceremony, along them.” with 100 guests, including the Councillor Greer raised more current mayor of Maidstone, Cllr than £100,000 for his chosen char- David Naghi. The group is pic- aspiration of this Sea Cadet Unit take to the water more fre- ities of the Blackthorn Trust, tured. for over 30 years, to have their quently. Kent Lung Awareness and the Cllr Greer said: “It has been the own pontoon, to enable them to “I decided to take on this proj- cadets during his year as mayor.

Maidstone Weald August 2018 29 News downsmail.co.uk Invicta topping schools’ league INVICTA Grammar School (IGS) is in the top 10 secondaries in the country, according to a survey. The Real School Guide has used TOP 10 KENT SCHOOLS 51 measures to rate IGS is number one in Kent and seventh across the Invicta Grammar School, country, with a five star, 86% rating. Maidstone Head teacher and joint CEO of the The Rochester Grammar School Valley Invicta Academies Trust Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar (VIAT), Julie Derrick said: “It is tes- School tament to the hard work of all our Dartford Grammar School students, staff and parents. Tonbridge Grammar School “I believe that the achievements Dartford Grammar School for Girls we have are down to the fact that we Sir Joseph Williamson's all have a collaborative drive for the Mathematical School, Rochester same thing: outstanding care, out- Highworth Grammar School, standing education and outstanding Ashford opportunities. Maidstone Grammar School for Girls “If our students are happy, they Head Julie Derrick with successful GCSE students at Invicta Grammar School will thrive; we also work very hard Bennett Memorial Diocesan School, Tunbridge Wells to ensure that there is a balance of VIAT school Valley Park was an- The Real Schools Guide uses four academia and opportunities.” other strong performer, with a three categories – attainment, teaching, at- Maidstone Girls’ Grammar School star rating and above mid-table na- tendance and outcomes – to come to Outcomes is also worth 15% and also makes it into the Kent top 10 tionally. It is 39th in Kent. its ratings. is based on what proportion of and is 60th nationally, with a five Maplesden Noakes also takes a Attainment is worth 30% of the pupils continue with education, or star and 76% rating. three star rating, a mid-table na- total score and is based on how well training within three months in St Simon Stock Catholic School tional placement and 44th in Kent. pupils do in comparison with the comparison to the national average. was the highest-ranked non-selec- Other local secondary schools, national average, as well as teachers' Scores are worked out by giving tive school in the Maidstone area such as New Line Learning and average salaries. the best performing school in each with a near 60% ranking and a five Cornwallis academies, fare less well Attendance, worth 15%, is based category top marks, with all other star rating. It is rated 25th in Kent both locally and nationally. Neither on absence rates, looking at levels of schools receiving points adjusted ac- and was the only non-selective New Line nor Cornwallis were pre- sessions missed, as well as unautho- cording to their comparative per- school to achieve five stars. pared to comment. rised and persistent absence. formance. J.L.B Quality Roofing at Property Maintenance Affordable Prices [email protected] New Tiled Roofs General Roofing Repairs Prices Start From Moss Removal As Little As UPVC Fascias, Soffits & Guttering £20 Felt Flat BEFORE AFTER Roofing Annual Gutter Cleaning Service Gutters & Fascia Cleaned To A High Standard Inside & Out All Repairs Broken Brackets Undertaken..... Leaking Gutter Joints Down Pipes So To Ensure Your Gutters Are Flowing Blockage Free Call Our Team For A Free & Friendly Quote T.01622 439647 M.07854 529434

30 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk downsBusinessmail.co.uk Focus News downsmail.co.uk Business Focus Invicta topping schools’ league NewsFamily Funeral Service brings its personal service to Headcorndownsmail.co.uk XFamily Factor Funeral date that has been helping families in the area for making funeral arrangements we have learned INVICTA Grammar School (IGS) is in the top 10 secondaries in the country, according to a survey. XService FACTOR brings starits Louisa Johnson 40 years. how to help families have and be part of a has been lined-up to headline the Princess Royal meets personal service to Michael Lawrence said: “We are pleased our meaningful service that celebrates life. The Real School Guide has used TOP 10 KENT SCHOOLS Big Day Out to be held in Maid- 51 measures to rate IGS is number stoneHeadcorn in July. branch in Headcorn High Street is now open. “Our approach is simple. We sit with you in one in Kent and seventh across the Invicta Grammar School, FAMILYThe singer, Funeral best known for the hit We’ve worked hard to ensure the premises is our office or your home, taking you slowly and BestService Behaviour, has opened will take the stage charitysympathetic to the village shop conservation area, methodically workers through the various decisions country, with a five star, 86% rating. Maidstone at Mote Park on July 1. Head teacher and joint CEO of the The Rochester Grammar School a newShe announcedbase in the gig on Twit- THE PRINCESSwith help Royal from received Nick Prior, a at Woodland that you will face and the options available to Valley Invicta Academies Trust Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar ter,Headcorn, saying: offering “Big news! I’ll be head- warm welcomeCarpentry, from charityand provides vol- a comfortable you. Sometimes, it’s just good to sit (VIAT), Julie Derrick said: “It is tes- School liningits friendly the @BigDayOutUK service Festival unteers whenenvironment she visited in the which Save people can relax and talk and talk to someone with tament to the hard work of all our Dartford Grammar School into even Maidstone more this July! Can’t wait The Childrenthrough shop in their Maidstone. needs. experience and compassion Tonbridge Grammar School to see you all there.” A crowd of onlookers waited out- students, staff and parents. people across the “Jo will be our lady on hand to help before making a decision.” “I believe that the achievements Dartford Grammar School for Girls Also on the bill are Diversity, side the store in Union Street to see Maidstone area. families looking to arrange a fitting tribute Contact Family Funerals on we have are down to the fact that we Sir Joseph Williamson's who won Britain’s Got Talent, and Princess Anne. She was greeted by dignitaries including the Mayor of all have a collaborative drive for the Mathematical School, Rochester girl The band family Atomic Kitten, who have for their loved ones. I will also be there daily Bearsted 01622 260200 or in Highworth Grammar School, Kerryowned, Katona and family in their runline-up. business offersMaidstone a Cllrto meet Derek families Butler, and the help with their Headcorn on 01622 962001. same thing: outstanding care, out- charity’s retail manager Cheryl Ashford personalisedLouisa (19) approach, won the with X Factor the option in of requirements and wishes.” standing education and outstanding 2015, after singing with mentor Rita Adams and voluntary shop leader, Maidstone Grammar School for opportunities. Orahome in visits the final. and access to a friendly voiceKaren at Elphick, To before meet going his new inside business commitment, Girls “If our students are happy, they Head Julie Derrick with successful GCSE students at Invicta Grammar School the end of the telephone 24 hours a day.to meet shopMichael workers. has recently moved to Headcorn. He will thrive; we also work very hard Bennett Memorial Diocesan Already operating out of Bearsted, FamilyThe Princess,added: who “The has been loss of presi- a loved one is never easy to to ensure that there is a balance of School, Tunbridge Wells Assault case dent of the charity since the 1970s, VIAT school Valley Park was an- The Real Schools Guide uses four AFuneral MAIDSTONE Service is womanrun by Michael has been Lawrence and cope with, and the added stress of making academia and opportunities.” spoke of her appreciation of the con- other strong performer, with a three categories – attainment, teaching, at- chargedhis son Robert, with wounding along with after Kim an and al- Angelatribution - the thearrangements shop makes can to often the bring further Maidstone Girls’ Grammar School Outcomes is also worth 15% and The Princess Royal is greeted by Cheryl Adams, the mayor and Karen Elphick star rating and above mid-table na- tendance and outcomes – to come to legedteam behind stabbing the in third-generation Shepway. businesswork of theemotional charity at upset. home With and our experience of also makes it into the Kent top 10 tionally. It is 39th in Kent. its ratings. is based on what proportion of Nicola Goslitski (40), of Sutton abroad. loved animals. raised £40,000 for the charity last and is 60th nationally, with a five Maplesden Noakes also takes a Attainment is worth 30% of the pupils continue with education, or Road, was arrested after police were She also presented certificates to Among the dozens of onlookers year. star and 76% rating. three star rating, a mid-table na- total score and is based on how well training within three months in called to a report of an assault in Dennis Foad, Brenda Harris and who watched the Princess depart More donations and customers St Simon Stock Catholic School tional placement and 44th in Kent. pupils do in comparison with the comparison to the national average. Westmorland Road on Sunday, Sylvia Thomas in honour of their was 88-year-old Betty Warren who are always welcome at the tiny shop was the highest-ranked non-selec- Other local secondary schools, national average, as well as teachers' Scores are worked out by giving April 30. Officers4 Cavendish were told thatWa twoy, long service to the charity. had waited for nearly an hour to see which59 High is packed Street, with goods ranging tive school in the Maidstone area such as New Line Learning and average salaries. the best performing school in each womenAshford had made Road, their way Bearsted, to hos- Seven-year-old Daisy, the daugh- her and was given a chair and a cup fromHeadcorn clothing, children’s items, with a near 60% ranking and a five Cornwallis academies, fare less well Attendance, worth 15%, is based category top marks, with all other pital with arm injuries. They are be- ter of shop volunteer Lora Maxwell, of tea outside the shop. kitchen ware and a collector’s cor- schools receiving points adjusted ac- lieved toMaidstone have known theME15 suspect. 8PWpresented the Princess AnneFind with a usThe at: charity shop opened in Union ner. ThereTN27 is also9QA a “wanted board” star rating. It is rated 25th in Kent both locally and nationally. Neither on absence rates, looking at levels of posy and a card she had made. The cording to their comparative per- Goslitski has been charged with Street in 1980 when the building for people who are looking for and was the only non-selective New Line nor Cornwallis were pre- sessions missed, as well as unautho- two counts of wounding with in- card had a picture of a horse be- was bought for £12,000. Thirty- something in particular and the vol- formance. school to achieve five stars. pared to comment. rised and persistent absence. tent and01622 one of possessing 260200 a knife cause Daisy had researched on the seven years later, its success contin-01622unteers will 962001 keep an eye out for in a public place. internet and found that the Princess ues, with the volunteers having them.

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O b i t u a r e s David Hart Ellis Overy “We had a wonderful weekend away with the family to celebrate 60 years of David Hart (71), of Vinters Park, died on THE death in a motorcycle accident of chef marriage.” April 4. He leaves Eileen, to whom he was Ellis Overy (21) made local headlines. Richard leaves his wife, children and married for over 50 years, his two sons, He grew up in Matfield and worked in grandsons Oliver, Henry, Tom and Harry. Russell and Neville, Tunbridge Wells before daughter-in-law working at the Who’d a Emmajane and two Thought It pub in James Corcoran grandchildren, Isabelle Grafty Green. and Finley. Ellis was due to take FAMILY and friends have been devastated David was raised in part in a memorial mo- by the sudden death of Yalding’s James south east London be- torcycle ride on Corcoran (15). fore he and Eileen Wednesday, June 13. The Mascalls Academy student quickly moved to Maidstone, Many of his friends became the subject of a living on Vinters Park completed the ride and tribute page on for over 47 years. said on social media Facebook with many David was well that they had done this contributors praising known in the property sector in Maidstone, in his honour. his politeness and working in estate agencies and lettings. For Curtis Allcorn posted on Facebook: “Last sharing memories the last 15 years he worked as an usher at the night, we gathered to remember you and pay back to his early days Crown Court in Maidstone, gaining praise our respect. It showed just how many people at Yalding Primary from the judges, staff and the public. you were loved by and how many of them School. Russell said: “My father loved music, and would do anything for you. Fly high brother, Linda Gilbert was an avid fan of Tony Bennett, seeing him ride in paradise and rest in peace x” posted: “Always perform many times. He loved his garden Ellis’s friend, Harvey Reade, shared details stopped to chat even after all the years since and took great pride in its appearance. Mum of a fundraising page aimed at raising £5,000 preschool.” Michelle Fenn posted: “Will and Dad loved days out and holidays. for his funeral. He said: “I've known you always remember James talking to us as he “He enjoyed socialising and was well since pre-school. You were the brother I never walked home from school…such a nice known to staff at the Hilton Hotel and the had and I will always love you and remember polite boy!” Living Well Health Club. you for the amazing kind man you were.” Karen Cheese added: “James was always “He will be remembered as a sociable, polite and friendly, with a real cheeky side warm, and genuine man who loved to help when he was in my class. It was lovely to others. His mischievous sense of humour will Richard Perks see how he grew in confidence at Yalding be sorely missed.” RICHARD Perks (85), of Lenham, was a and I will never forget his brilliant local builder with a reputation that meant performance during the year six leavers’ he never had to advertise for work. service. He really stole the show and was Malcolm Baker Born in Maidstone, Richard moved to very funny! Rest in peace James.” THE death has been announced of Malcolm Pla£s Heath as a three- Baker (75), a noted architect who designed year-old, and the Fairview and Riverside homes in St remained there until Yvonne Cramp Peter’s Street, Maidstone. he and Brenda, to A FUNERAL service took place on July 16 He lived most recently in Bearsted, but whom he was married for Yvonne Cramp (60), from Marden. spent almost 30 years in Aylesford. for 60 years, moved to Yvonne spent 20 years working for South Originally from Yorkshire, Malcolm Lenham. East Coast Ambulance gained his professional qualifications at the After leaving Service and died in University of Sheffield. Maidstone Technical May after a short ba£le He moved with his young family to Doha School, Richard with cancer. Because in Qatar for three years, where he worked trained as a carpenter her cremation took on the ambitious redesign of the city’s and joiner before working as a builder. place without a local skyline. Richard was father to Tracy and Andrew. service, former His search for work then took the family Brenda said: “Richard was a quiet and to the south of England, where he joined colleagues and friends thorough person who developed a strong organised a service at Fairview Homes. reputation for his work. Malcolm was married to Barbara and fa- Maidstone’s Baptist “He played football for and ther to Michael and Elizabeth. His family Church. cricket for Boughton Malherbe. He was a praised his artistic skill and his love and care. Yvonne’s friend Sarah Co£on asked talented cricketer who opened the ba£ing He also leaves four grandchildren. former colleagues to turn up in full uniform. for the village team for a number of years. The service was recorded for others who could not a£end. Sarah praised her friend and colleague’s Camrass Wills larger-than-life personality and her honesty. Advice you can trust THE STONE SHOP EAST FARLEIGH Do you need help with probate? Do you want to buy a funeral plan? • MEMORIALS MANUFACTURED AND INSTALLED • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed • ADDITIONAL INSCRIPTIONS • CLEANING AND REFURBISHMENT DipPFS MSWW 01622 720985 01622 726633 www.camrasswills.co.uk FREE CAR PARK NEXT TO SHOP

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Maidstone Weald October 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk agreed to move the sign to the junction of again about the li�er problem in the

P Broomfield and Kingswood

a r i s h Broomfield Road, Duck Pond Lane and village, and ask for a mobile patrol. Police report Garden furniture had been Gravelly Bo�om Road, where the finger Air quality A note had been received from stolen from a home in Chartway Street; a post and planters are situated. MBC about the location of monitoring cable had been stolen from an electricity Community centre It was agreed that a equipment in the borough. The area at the C sub-station in Cross Drive; a car window

o u n c i l s parish survey should be carried out before top of Station Hill and Lower Road were was smashed in Charlesford Avenue and a any further expenditure. A questionnaire felt to be possible sites. It was agreed that bag was stolen. It was later recovered, was agreed and Cllr Darling would format the clerk would investigate the cost of minus some of its contents, further along it for printing. Le�er boxes would be set up having two sites in the village for six the road. around the village for responses. months. Village hall The commi�ee chairman had Defibrillator Cllr White would get some asked for a donation towards the cost of a dates for training. Cllr Beasley reported new boiler and electrical work at the Chart Su�on that the issue of locking the phone box in village hall, which needed to be carried out Police report One crime was reported in Gallants Lane was in hand. It was agreed to urgently. It was agreed to contribute £800. approach the Community Heartbeat Trust Air ambulance A request had been the period from June 7 to July 2 – a burglary. However, this appeared to be a about installing one in the phonebox in received for a donation of £150. This was Gallants Lane and to get some prices. The agreed unanimously. neighbour issue and the stolen item was later returned. clerk was reminded to order replacement Sports field A resident had asked that the ba�eries. fence at the north end of the field be Speed sign An estimate had been received from Highway Services for two 30mph Village car park The surface was repaired or replaced to deter entry to her somewhat disturbed and sunken in places. property. The clerk was asked to obtain signs to be painted on Warmlake Road and Amber Lane. This was agreed. Weed growth means bay marking weren’t quotes for this work. Two benches had visible and therefore couldn’t be repainted. deteriorated and it was decided to replace Speedwatch Volunteers had been temporarily suspended from monitoring Spraying was needed. Dog fouling signs them, using money from the budget for were due to arrive. The new double yellow improvements, The clerk would order Warmlake Road. Due to the high number of speeding vehicles, the team would lines were very effective and seven Glasdon seats and see if the handyman additional spaces had been painted on the could install them. deploy mobile cameras in the village at least three times a month for the next year. tarmac at the gate end. Pearsons did not Play areas MBC had announced match have enough hours to do the car park as funding for improvements to strategic play Football pitch Two teams had withdrawn from use of the pitch for the forthcoming well as all their other jobs, so it was agreed areas. It was agreed to make an application that Cllr Beasley would talk to the car park to cover the replacement fencing, notices season. It was agreed that the clerk could issue licences for up to four teams for the a�endant to see if he could do some of the and additional equipment at the sports jobs. The school would be contacted about field. season. Village clean-up This would take place on the overgrowth from the school garden and Parish clerk vacancy Three people had the use of the car park by teachers. It was been invited for interview and there were Saturday, October 13, meeting at the village hall at 10am. felt that KCC should also foot some of the five further expressions of interest. bill, as the car park was used by their Village planters Mrs Lakin had forwarded Dog mess Cllr Underdown said she had received complaints about dog mess at the employees. a proposal for the continued maintenance Highways Now that the proposals for the of the planters. It was agreed to ask Mrs playing field and had been asked about banning dogs. It was felt that the problem bridge had been considered in detail, the Lakin if she would continue with the wording of the parish council reply to KCC planting but the maintenance would be was caused mainly by professional dog walkers from outside the parish. The clerk Highways was agreed, including the carried out by the handyman, if he was parameters for a Lower Road traffic- agreeable. The budget for planting would was to contact the dog warden to see if any help could be provided. calming scheme. The clerk would draft the remain the same as last year. le�er. Road markings KCC had provided a plan Church Members considered paying Cllr Waring to carry out grass cu�ing and Play areas The issue of dog fouling was for Keep Clear markings in Gravelly discussed, particularly on the recreation Bo�om Road. The clerk had carried out a maintenance at the churchyard, at a cost of £350 plus Vat. This was agreed. fields. The clerk would contact Boughton consultation with the immediate Monchelsea to see how they managed their neighbours – one response had been No Dogs policy. Signage was on order. Lee received in support of the proposal. East Farleigh would be asked to clear the overgrown Dropped kerbs These would be installed at north-west corner of the field. the junction of Cayser Drive and Wildwood Network Rail The clerk had received a Right to Bid MBC had queried the parish Close. response about the possibility of a council’s application for the Walnut Tree Noisy surface The clerk had received an timetable change. This would be on the pub and it was agreed that the clerk would email from MP Helen Whately about the agenda at the next timetable forum. The ask for more guidance from MBC, as it noisy surface of the M20 between junctions clerk had enquired when that would take appeared that rules had changed since the 8 and 9. Mrs Whately was meeting the place. Bull and the Old School Hall were executive operations director of Highways Waste issues It was agreed to support registered. England to get assurances about noise Parish Council in its efforts to reduction materials. persuade KCC to extend the opening hours Coffee caravan The information project of the tip to 8pm on at least one evening a East Su�on would take place on the forecourt of the week, to review the charge of £37 a year for shop in Charlesford Avenue on August 23, a green garden waste bin and to reconsider Data protection The impact assessment September 20 and October 18. the withdrawal of the bulky waste freighter had been completed and sent to Satswana Summer fair It was agreed that the parish service. It was felt this would reduce the for feedback. Email addresses had been set council would have an information number of people needing to use the tip, up for councillors. presence at the village hall summer fair. thereby reducing the traffic problems on Highways Cllr Ireland was to query why Prize draw leaflets would be handed out Tovil Hill. It should also reduce fly-tipping certain parts of the parish had not been for completion. in the area. mown and would contact East Su�on Park Village sign The Kingswood sign had been Hedges It was reported that hedges on prison regarding white lines on the road. dismantled for safety reasons and removed Lower Road from Priory Close to Medway from the village hall grounds. The clerk Villas were overgrown, forcing pedestrians had obtained three quotes for the to walk in the road. Cllr Charlton would Headcorn renovation work. It was agreed to ask contact the farmer to ask him to cut them Crime report A number of incidents had Maidstone Signs to submit a quotation for back. occurred in the village, including the the amended work now needed. It was also Li�er The clerk would contact McDonalds Continued on page 36

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P Continued from page 34 clerk. Street names MBC had contacted the clerk a r i s h distribution of fake £50 notes. The Police news PCSO Martin Chivers for street name suggestions for the community was advised to be cautious if reported that he was moving to another extension to the Parsonage. Councillors given these notes. department within the PCSO team. His agreed that these should continue with the C Fire hydrants The clerk said a full replacement would be Ross Russell and a hop theme and proposed Challenger Way o u n c i l s inspection of the hydrants was due to take meeting would be arranged to introduce and Pilgrim Close. All were in agreement place in July. This would be carried out by him to the admin team. PCSO Chivers was and the clerk would notify MBC. Kent Fire and Rescue. The clerk had thanked for his work and wished well for Mowing There had been problems with provided a list of new and recent his new role. grass mowing, but thanks to a member of developments to ensure that they had the Crime report Two Section 59s (orders to the Friends of Marden’s Heritage and the requisite number of hydrants, and would seize cars for careless driving) had been MPC caretaker, Southons Field had been follow this up after the inspection. issued and a stolen car had been seized. mowed ready for the Big Musical Picnic. War memorial The restoration was An oak water bu� had been stolen from a Highways meeting Items discussed complete and feedback had been very garden in Linton Road and a po�ed shrub included areas of road for double and positive. The clerk confirmed that she had had been stolen from the garden of a single yellow lines, pavement parking, completed the request for the payment of home in Well Street. school parking and parking restriction the grant by the War Memorials Trust. School parking The school was doing times. S106 review The clerk gave an update on everything it could to tackle inconsiderate Funding A request had been received this ma�er and confirmed that she would parking, including naming and shaming from Marden Theatre Group for the be meeting the new S106 officer with the culprits, taking photos of Summer Drama School. It was agreed to parish and borough councillors. inappropriate parking, reporting incidents make a donation of £350, with £175 Dawkes Meadow The clerk would follow to 101, reminding parents via the coming from the youth budget and £175 up completion of the work promised, ie newsle�er not to park inappropriately. from the donations budget. replacement of the footpath section of the More visual presence was needed with the Highways The clerk was asked to report PROW. The vehicular section of the PCSO and parking enforcement. The fly-tipping in Underlyn Lane, a verge PROW would be patched. ma�er would be discussed with Ma�hew breaking away along Maidstone Road by Defibrillator The chair said the clerk had Sco� and would be taken up again with Ba�le Lane junction and the grass cu�ing suggested the siting of the defibrillator on the school in September. in Roundel Way. the wall of the charity shop on Foremans Speedwatch At the last session, 528 cars Walk. The clerk had contacted the were observed, with three being reported landowner who was in favour of the for driving in excess of 40mph. The team Ne�lestead installation. was waiting on seven sites to be approved. Rail crossing Members of the public Small World Festival A number of Some were in Loose village and some in voiced their concerns about the plan to incidents had been reported over the North Loose. upgrade the level crossing at weekend and these would be followed up Pavilion A payment had been made to the Wateringbury from a manned gate to a by the appropriate agencies. kitchen fi�er for materials and the manually controlled barrier. Concerns Old School House nursery The chairman electrician had been organised to put in a included potential noise and lights, said the parish council would do all that spur and socket once the old kitchen had especially during the night; traffic on the they could to support the various groups been removed. The kitchen would be road and the safety of the new barriers. and agencies in taking this ma�er removed and taken to the tip by the admin Cllr Meredith proposed that the council forward. The chair also agreed with the team, who would also organise the should object to the application and this council that the clerk should complete the emptying of the cupboards. The clerk was agreed. Community Right to Bid application and would write to all hirers to advise them Buses A resident spoke of her concern submit it to Maidstone Borough Council that there would be no locked cupboards about the buses, which included the 6X as soon as possible. for hirers and no labels on the new cabinet service and the new 6 service. She said Sound whistle notices A parishioner had doors. two buses came along at 9.20am, which observed that trains at the pedestrian Shed The planning application for the she was unable to use as her bus pass was crossing on the footpath from the church new shed on Brooks Field had been not valid until 9.30am. The next bus at were no longer sounding their horns on approved and the architect had been 10.20am was extremely busy and there approach. The clerk established that the instructed to prepare the plans for were usually no seats available. The last signs had been removed and was building regulations. suitable bus left Maidstone at 2pm, which following up with Southeastern Rail to Roy’s Wood It was agreed to accept the didn’t leave much time for shopping or find out why. artwork that had been prepared, catching up with friends etc. The 6X Church Walk A resident had emailed to providing that the definition of the service was up for tender, so things could say that they were continually finding it wording was enhanced. change. Cllr Meredith suggested a difficult to park outside their property, in meeting with borough councillors and the the High Street or nearby due to high clerk would arrange this. levels of visitors and commuters now Marden Street lighting It was resolved to replace using the spaces on the road approaching Crime report In the previous two months the lights outside numbers 1 and 31 the village hall. The clerk had replied that there had been one theft, one case of Bryant Close and Bishop Close. Church Lane was not designated for criminal damage, a theft of a vehicle and Tree work The clerk reported that the residents’ parking, but was short term three burglaries. There had also been work to the trees would be carried out at parking for visitors to the village. reports of nuisance and antisocial the agreed cost of £250, including the Employment law workshop The clerk had behaviour, particularly on the playing removal of the large tree overhanging a�ended this KALC workshop but field and at Tippen Way and Cascade Maidstone Road. expressed disappointment at the session, Close. Grounds maintenance The Field had last saying it was being used by many to iron Newsle�er The draft had been circulated been cut on May 25. The churchyard out HR/Employment issues they were and had been sent back to the publisher. looked alright, but the strimming could be facing. Members were asked to let the clerk know be�er. The footpath from the lychgate to what roads they could deliver to, as the church had not been cut, but this was several councillors were unavailable. not in the contract. The clerk would speak Loose Flooding issues An email had been to the contractors to see if this could be New member The chairman welcomed received from the Environment Agency done and at what cost. It was reported Jane Butler to the parish council. Cllr giving details of the new company which that one of the D rings had been removed Butler signed the Declaration of would honour the guarantees of the flood from the goals at the KGV field. The clerk Acceptance of Office, witnessed by the resilience work already undertaken. would obtain a quote for a new one.

36 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk Verge cut Cllr Salter spoke about the felling of one tree. MBC’s tree officer had overhanging the highway and would P

verge cut on part of Gibbs Hill and had been contacted. damage the structure of the bridge. The a r i s h asked the clerk to look into why they had Surrenden Field Cllr Perry asked about KCC Highway engineer had asked that in not cut the verge above Rock Farm the status of discussions about the the first instance, the parish council

Co�ages. freehold of the field. MBC had rejected the should write to the landowner to request C

Footpath The KM178 path at the rear of parish council’s final offer and was aware removal of the ivy. o u n c i l s the KGV field was extremely overgrown that responsibility for maintenance after Village green Cars were being driven and the clerk would report this to the expiry of the lease would fall to the across the green on leaving the village public rights of way officer. The tarmac borough council as freeholder. club car park onto Vicarage Road. It was was also breaking up. Remembrance Day It was planned to put agreed to look at the possibility of pu�ing poppies on 24 lamp columns at a cost of up wooden posts on the edge of the drive. £111.50. It was agreed to apply to KCC for A site meeting would be arranged. Staplehurst a licence to display the poppies at a cost of Flood update Drop-in sessions for section Ride-on mower Cllr Riordan discussed £26.50. A donation of £85 would be made 1b properties were well a�ended. details of a mower that had been to the Royal British Legion for the plastic However, the liquidation of UK Flood identified as suitable for maintenance of poppies and ties. Installation would be Barriers had had a serious impact on the the Jubilee Field. Members felt they arranged by the parish office. timescale of the scheme. Project manager needed more information about the Andy Grey had had to go back to New available options. It was noted that short Zealand and a new project manager term cu�ing could involve the hire of a Yalding would be appointed. mower or engagement of a contractor. It Elections Cllr Geraldine Brown was Lees car park The programming and was agreed to contact Staplehurst Mowers elected unopposed as chairman. Cllr tickets had been agreed with Bripark. to ask about short-term hire of a mower. Michael Steward was elected unopposed Li�er picking and opening and shu�ing Parking A resident had contacted the as vice-chairman. by Jason Biggs was going well. The bulk parish council about parking in Gybbon Village sign The replacement fingerpost bin had been delivered and the wording of Rise. It was agreed to ask the PCSO to at The Lees was on order. When it was in the main signs had been agreed. A vehicle a�end and be a visible presence, place, a project would be initiated to with trade plates had been parking in the particularly at the start of the new school review and potentially replace all car park – this would be checked with year, and to seek a meeting with school fingerposts and name plates. DVLA. governors. Pond warden Following an offer of Speed watch Cllr Stewart was still trying Clerk’s report Volunteers were needed to bespoke training, a meeting was to be set to get things up and running and an help marshal the Wimpey Field Biobli� up with the trainer. unofficial session had been held with one event. Bovis Homes said it would be Weir pool The chairman was to chase a of the new volunteers. The 13 sites undertaking ecological and clearance date for a meeting to discuss improved originally approved had not yet been works on its site north of Headcorn Road safety at Anchor Sluice. confirmed by the police. this year, with a view to starting Pavement parking It was agreed to write Annual meetings The meetings were construction next year. to MP Helen Grant regarding parking on a�ended by almost 80 people, including Hen and Duckhurst site Southern Water the pavement in and Lees Road, councillors. The displays were well had replied to questions about the site but as stopping pavement parking was one of received, as was the buffet supplied by had declined to meet as the company was her election pledges. The George. awaiting details of the developer’s Jubilee Field The headteacher was Speed limit Cllr McLoughlin had proposals. Cllr Perry said he would ask waiting for a company to come back to her addressed the annual meeting to ask for MP Helen Grant to intervene. Cllr Buller with a wri�en plan which could be used support for a 20mph speed limit through asked that the planning consent for the to get competitive quotes. A grant was the village. It was agreed to put this on the Hen and Duckhurst site be checked for potentially available. agenda, but Cllr McLoughlin failed to reference to traffic calming measures. Council phone A Yalding Parish Council a�end the parish council meeting to put Tree work The clerk said the tree phone was now available. A rota and forward his ideas. Members felt that the inspector had identified problems with process for handing over each week was proposal was impractical and two trees on land between the High Street agreed, and a list of emergency contacts unenforceable, but it was agreed that it and Chestnut Avenue, which he said would be drawn up and circulated. should form part of the neighbourhood required remedial measures, including Town Bridge The ivy on the bridge was plan.

A roadside bush in Heath Road, Boughton C r i m e Monchelsea, was set alight by a group of youths. Neighbourhood Watch A commercial yard in West Street,

Hunton, was broken into and a blue Suzuki Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police r GSX750, GF06***, motorbike was stolen. e p o r t s An oak water butt was stolen from a found nearby and the ignition had been other garden tools were stolen from outside garden in Linton Road, Loose. tampered with. a house in Sutton Forge, Marden. An outbuilding was broken into in A 67-plate Mercedes Benz C220 was A Lawnflight 420 XTS agricultural tractor Stilebridge Lane, Marden. stolen from Hanmer Way, Staplehurst, was taken from a private road in Collier A potted Maple bush was stolen from a along with a mobile phone. Street. driveway in Well Street, Loose. Two youths, aged around 15, were Items were taken during a break-in at a A group of youths were seen trying to reportedly seen taking a green ladies static caravan in Goudhurst Road, Marden. steal a kayak from the river bank in bicycle from The Quarries, Boughton A VW pick-up truck was stolen from Hampstead Lane, Yalding. They left when Monchelsea. Maidstone Road, Nettlestead. challenged by the owner. Both number plates were stolen from a Valued items were stolen in a break-in at A step ladder was stolen from the rear of vehicle parked outside a house in Waverley a house in Bathurst Road, Staplehurst. a property in Pinnock Lane, Staplehurst. Close, Coxheath. A Vauxhall Corsa parked in Surrenden A home in Stilebridge Lane, Marden, was A water cylinder was stolen from a Road, Staplehurst, was damaged, with a burgled and model cars were taken. driveway at a house in Headcorn Road, wing mirror broken and the bonnet dented. Children's scooters were taken from a Boughton Malherbe. The padlock and chain were removed garden in Bathurst Road, Staplehurst. Garden fencing was damaged in Linton from a secured gate at a field in Chartway A motorcycle was removed from a back Road, Loose. Street, Sutton Valence, but there was no garden in Lacey Close, Langley. It was later A Bentley lawn mower, a strimmer and other damage.

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Supply • Install • Repair H & G Chimney Services Floor & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • Long established • ICS registered All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs Call Gary 07738 902116 01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] Classifieds 01622 736266 downsmail.co.uk Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.ukALL WORK GUARANTEED Builders Clean Sweep ClassifiedsClassifieds downsdownsmail.co.ukmail.co.uk Brush & vacuum MD Building & Services AUL EST Wood burners and flues ReachReach moremore peoplepeople thanthan everever beforebefore www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.ukwww.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.ukP B Specialistsdowns in mail.co.uk Classifieds • Extensions • Refurbishments Classifieds Contact our sales team…Classifieds Brickworkdownsmail.co.uk • Plastering (All aspects) supplied anddowns fittedmail.co.uk ClassifiedsReach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk• Electrics • Modernisationsdownsmail.co.uk Reach more people than everO Extensionsbefore www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.uk• Kitchen & Bathroom Installations All work insured Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.ukNatasha Bastone Teresa JefferyO • Driveways,Rebecca Patios Abbott & Repointing Reach more people than ever before www.downsmailbusinessdirectory.co.ukGeneral Builder • Fencing & Blockpaving Telesales Manager Classified SalesO Executive Classified Sales Executive All work certified to cover insurance 25 years Experience FULLY INSURED E: natasha@ E: teresa@ E: rebecca.abbott Pest control available downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk01622 891960 Tel: @downsmail.co.ukMark 07841 409061 Contact our salesT. team…01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 e: [email protected]. 01622 630330 Camera inspections available Contact our salesext. team… 224 Reachext. 227 07748 up to 80,000630747 householdswww.mdbuildingservices.co.ukext. every 234 month 01622 630 330 Weddings attended Contact our salesNatashaNatasha team… Bastone Bastone TeresaTeresa Jeffery Jeffery RebeccaRebecca Abbott Abbott Appliance RepairsTelesales Manager Contact our sales team…Classified Sales Executive CarpentersClassified Sales Executive Member of the ICS Contact our sales team… ContactAppliance our Repairs salesTelesales team… Manager Classified Sales Executive BuildingBuilders PlansClassified Sales Executive E:NatashaE: natasha@ natasha@ Bastone TeresaE:E: teresa@ teresa@ Jeffery RebeccaE:E: rebecca.abbott rebecca.abbott Abbott downsmail.co.ukdownsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.ukdownsmail.co.uk @[email protected] HETAS approved Natasha BastoneALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCETelesalesTeresa Manager JefferyFind your localNatasha Classified BastoneRebecca Sales Executive Abbott TeresaClassified Jeffery Sales Executive Rebecca Abbott REPAIR SERVICET.NatashaT. 01622 01622 630330 630330 Bastone TeresaT.T. 01622 01622 Jeffery 630330 630330 RebeccaT.T. 01622A.H.B.S 01622 630330Abbott 630330 Telesales Manager E: natasha@Classified Sales Executivetrades peopleTelesalesE: teresa@ ManagerClassifiedWood Sales Executive WorksClassifiedE: Sales rebecca.abbott Executive Classified Sales Executive with fully qualified engineerTelesalesext.downsmail.co.ukext. 224 224 Manager Classifieddownsmail.co.ukext.ext. 227 227 Sales Executive Classifi[email protected]. 234 234 Sales Executive Contact Kevin Bovis E: natasha@ E: teresa@ Carpentry E: rebecca.abbott E: natasha@ All makes of washing machines,E: natasha@E: teresa@ E: teresa@E: rebecca.abbottFULL CARPENTRY E: rebecca.abbott downsmail.co.uk T. 01622downsmail.co.uk 630330 Businesses & Servicesdownsmail.co.ukT. 01622 [email protected] downsmail.co.ukT. 01622 630330 @downsmail.co.uk fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners,downsmail.co.ukext. 224 downsmail.co.ukext. 227 SERVICE FROM @downsmail.co.ukext. 234All aspects of CARPENTRY 01622 844385 t/dryers, dishwashers, elec ovens. on the DownsT. 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Plastering and Tiling [email protected] Anytime:REPAIRREPAIR SERVICE SERVICE07831 557677 Appliance Repairs A.H.B.SA.H.B.SAll work guaranteed.Carpenters Appliance Repairs Appliance Repairs tradestrades people people CarpentersWoodWood MAKING THE WorksWorks BEST OFCarpenters CarpentersWOOD ALLwithwith DOMESTIC fully fully qualified qualified APPLIANCE engineer engineer Find your local CarpentryFREE ESTIMATES All makes of washing machines, INFULL AND CARPENTRYAROUND THE HOME Carpentry All makesREPAIR of washing SERVICE machines, Businesses & Services 38 FULLMaidstone CARPENTRY Weald October 2017A.H.B.SFamily business established 21 years fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners,Bathroom InstallersALLBusinesses DOMESTICtrades people &APPLIANCE Services WoodFind your Works local Carpenters All aspects of CARPENTRY ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCE fridges,ALLwith FindDOMESTIC freezers, fully your qualified vacuumlocal APPLIANCE engineer cleaners,BathroomsFind your local SERVICESERVICE FROM FROM All aspects of CARPENTRY REPAIR SERVICE t/dryers,t/dryers, dishwashers, dishwashers, elec elec ovens. ovens. REPAIRonon the the Downs SERVICEDowns Mail Mail A.H.B.SDECKINGFULLtrades CARPENTRY people TO DOORS, CarpentryDoors,WoodDoors, Windows, Windows,01622 Kitchens WorksKitchens 743648 supplied supplied and and A.H.B.S All makes REPAIRtrades of washing people SERVICE machines, WoodBusinessestradesdirectory directorypeople Works& Services WoodCALLDECKING Cliff Workson TO DOORS, A.H.B.S with fully qualified engineer fridges,All All freezers, work work guaranteed guaranteedvacuum cleaners, with fully qualified engineer fitted,fitted,All aspectsLoft Loft Conversions, Conversions, of CARPENTRY Doors Doors hung, hung, Carpentry  with fully qualified engineer All makes of washing machines, Carpentry07940KITCHENSSERVICE 854927 & FROM FLOORS. 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MAKING THE BEST OF WOOD CALLMAKINGCALL Cliff Cliff THE on on BEST OF WOOD MAKINGFamily01622 business THE established BEST 743648 21OF years WOOD Bathrooms 07940 854927FREE ESTIMATES H &Mob: FREEG Chimney ESTIMATES07711 291921 Services FREE ESTIMATES Supply • Install • RepairIN AND AROUND THE HOME 07940IN AND 854927 AROUND THE HOME IN Mob:AND AROUND 07711 THE 291921 HOME Family business established 21 years Bathrooms CALL FamilyCliff business on established 21 years 31, SheppeyFamily01622 business Road, established 743648 Loose, 21 years Maidstone BathroomsTheTheFloor completecomplete & Wall Tiling BathroomBathroomsBathroom • Full Plumbing ServicesBathrooms Chimney sweeping service • Long31, established Sheppey Road, • ICSLoose, registered Maidstone 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 01622All 743648 types of flu • All pots-cowlsCALL 01622Cliff supplied on 743648 & fitted 01622 743648 MaintenanceTheMaintenance complete CompanyCompanyBathroomCALL Cliff on CALL Cliff on 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Mob: 07711 291921 Call Gary 0773807940 854927 902116 07940Mob:Complete 854927 07711 re-builds 291921Chimney • Re-pointing Maintenance07940 •Mob: Guttering, 854927 07711 roof 291921& valley repairs Maintenance CompanyThe complete Bathroom31, Sheppey01622 Road, 739439 Loose, Chimney07860 Maidstone 318166 Maintenance 31, [email protected] Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone 31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone The complete BathroomTheNONO CALL CALLcomplete OUT OUT FEE FEE & & BathroomFREE FREE QUOTES QUOTES Maintenance CompanyMaintenance01622 Company 736266Maintenance Company ChimneyChimney MaintenanceMaintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES SupplySupply •• InstallInstallALL • •WORK RepairRepair GUARANTEED Chimney Maintenance Chimney MaintenanceHH && GG ChimneyChimneyChimney ServicesServices Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTESFloorNO CALL& Wall OUT Tiling FEE & FREE • Full QUOTES PlumbingNO CALL OUT Services FEE & FREE QUOTES FloorSupply & • Wall Install Tiling • Repair • Full Plumbing Services ChimneyChimney sweeping sweeping service service • • LongH Long & established establishedG Chimney • • ICS ICS registered Servicesregistered AllAll types types of of flu flu • • All All pots-cowls pots-cowls supplied supplied & & fitted fitted Floor & Wall Tiling • BuildersFull Plumbing Services Chimney sweeping service • LongH & established G Chimney • ICS registered Services H & G Chimney Services Supply • Install • Repair Supply • Install • Repair Supply • Install • RepairH & CompleteGCompleteClean Chimney re-builds re-builds Services • • Re-pointing Re-pointing Sweep • • Guttering, Guttering, roof roof & & valley valley repairs repairs Call Gary 07738 902116 All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted Call Gary 07738Floor 902116 & Wall Tiling • Full Plumbing0162201622 739439 739439 Services 07860 07860 318166 318166 [email protected] [email protected] Floor & Wall Tiling • Full PlumbingFloor & Wall Services Tiling • Full PlumbingChimney sweeping Services service • Long establishedCompleteChimney re-builds •sweeping ICS registered • serviceRe-pointing • Long • Guttering,establishedChimney roof • ICSsweeping & valleyregistered repairsservice • Long established • ICS registered Call Gary01622 07738 736266 902116 Brush & vacuum All types of flu • All pots-cowls supplied & fitted 01622 736266MD BuildingAll types of & flu Services • All pots-cowls01622 supplied 739439All types& fitted 07860 of flu 318166• All pots-cowls [email protected] supplied & fitted Complete re-builds • Re-pointing • Guttering,Complete roof re-builds & valley • repairs Re-pointing • Guttering, roof & valley repairs CallALLALL Gary01622 WORK WORK 07738 GUARANTEED GUARANTEED 736266Complete 902116Call re-builds Gary • Re-pointing 07738 • Guttering, 902116 roof & valley repairs Call Gary 07738 902116PAUL B EST 01622 739439Specialists 07860 in 318166 [email protected] 739439 burners 07860 318166 and [email protected] flues01622 739439 07860 318166 [email protected] ALL WORKBuilding GUARANTEED Services• Extensions • Refurbishments Cleaning Services 01622 736266Brickwork01622 736266• Plastering (All01622 aspects) 736266supplied and fitted • Electrics • Modernisations ALL WORK GUARANTEED ALL WORKBuilders GUARANTEED ALL WORK GUARANTEED O Extensions Builders • Kitchen & Bathroom Installations CleanAll work insured Sweep www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Clean Sweep MD BUILDING & SERVICESBuilders • Driveways, Patios & Repointing O General BuilderBuilders • Fencing & Blockpaving Clean Sweep LookingO to25 extend years or Experience improve your home, we can help. 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O • Driveways,O GeneralPatios & BuilderRepointing Tel: MarkFULLYO General 07841 INSURED Builder 409061 PestHETAS control approved available General Builder • 01622Fencing & Blockpaving 891960 Tel:• FencingMark & 07841 Blockpaving 409061 • Fencing & Blockpaving 01622O 891960 e: [email protected] AllPest work control certified available to coverAll work Mob:insurance 07720 960068certified to cover insurance O 25 years Experience 25 years Experience Tel:Alle: [email protected] MarkworkO 25 07841 years certified Experience 409061 to cover insurance 07748FULLY01622 INSURED 630747891960 FULLY INSURED CameraCameraFULLY INSURED inspectionsinspections availableavailableEmail: [email protected] 07748 630747 e: www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukmark@mdbuildingservices.co.ukwww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Contact Kevin Bovis Tel:Pest Mark control 07841 409061 available PestCamera control inspections available availablePest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark0162207748 07841 891960630747 409061 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk01622 891960 Tel:WeddingsWeddings Mark 07841 attendedattended 409061 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Camerae: [email protected] inspections available 07748 630747Building PlansCamerawww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk07748 inspections 630747 availableWeddings01622 attended844385 Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukBuildingBuilding Plans Plans MemberMemberwww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk ofof thethe ICSICS Weddings attendedMaidstoneWeddings Weald August 2018attended 39 Building PlansWeddings attended MemberHETASHETAS07885 approved approvedof 651578 the ICS Building PlansMember of theBuilding ICS [email protected] approved of the ICS Member of the ICS Building Plans ContactContact KevinKevin BovisBovis HETAS approved HETASContact approved Kevin BovisHETAS approved 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 01622 844385 Contact Kevin BovisContact0162201622 844385 844385Kevin Bovis Contact Kevin Bovis 016220788507885 844385 651578651578 01622 844385 [email protected]@gmail.com 651578 01622 844385 07885 651578 [email protected] 651578 07885 651578 [email protected] 3838 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald October October 2017 [email protected] [email protected] 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Maidstone Weald December 2017 39 Sales downsmail.co.uk Classified Services Cleaning Services Garden Services &

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Installation,FOR A supplyFREE and QUOTATION repair of garage doors accessories to personalise your garage door. professional service & advice Business Directory Contact Ray Call Colin on 07521 Painting & decorating, across the South East of England. • Not only do we supply and install garage doors, 377306 or 01622 853978 Please call:- 01622 743428 Wall Papering, T–iling LOGS Advertise – from as little as 07733072389/01622 205625 Mob:- 07817 517 733 SEASONED DRY LOGS • Years of experience in the garage door industry we can also repair any door from any and all aspecFour-yearts of DIY. seasoned apple logs and we are proud to have received many glowing manufacturer to a top standard. £3.00 per month customer recommendations for us. DAVID WYNN CALL MALCOLM£100 load –Call £125 01622 load 630330 or visit Professional Painting & Decorating ON 01634RING 308067 JOSH 6pm 24 Any moisture test welcomeour website on delivery. for more details 01634 786129onwards 07540 224938Serviceshour GREEN MAN Mob:07939 07788 935149142576Also other hardwoods available Interior Decorator • Interior & exterior painting Tree & Garden Services FOR A FREE QUOTATION www.downsmail.co.uk www.garagedoorspecialistskent.co.uk [email protected] FREE DELIVERY – FREE STACKING SERVICE Not just a decorator, • Wall papering • Plastering Hedge cutting • Fully insured Call Maidstone office: 01622 813750 but one with over Traditional 40 years experience • Friendly & reliable service or Mobile: 07854 615687 Hedge laying Dr. Tiles I Bnow Plastering semi retired, Call Nick for a free quotation Fencing WaghornTiling & Building Logs Maintenance so can offer a cheaper price Free No Obligation Quote 07921 193298 Landscaping Bulk bags £39.99 www.wrightsfencing.co.uk FREE •PlasteringCall our sales team•Friendly, now - reliable, 01622Reliable Service, 687200 No Job To Small, Fully Insured01622 206702 Free estimates & advice - Fully insured SeasonedNO OBLIGATION mixed•Painting hard & Decoratingwood clean & tidy worker. 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40 Maidstone East January 2017 downsmail.co.uk Classified

Painting & Decorating continued Skip Hire

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Plastering Plumbing & Heating 01233 660 099 Contact our sales team… www.gboxkent.com Natasha Bastone Teresa Jeffery SKIP HRebeccaIR AbbottE Telesales Manager Classified Sales Executive Commercial & DClassifiedomesti Salesc Executive E: natasha@ E: teresa@ E: rebecca.abbott downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Recycling [email protected] T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 T. 01622 630330 ext. 224 ext. 227 ext. 234

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ALL DOMESTIC APPLIANCE Find your local GavinREPAIR SERVICE Francistrades people Wood Works A.H.B.S Centralwith fully Heating qualified Installations engineer ex British Gas Book Online Carpentry All makes of washing machines, FULL CARPENTRY fridges, freezers, vacuum cleaners, Businesses & Services Order your skip via secure • Combi Boilers Fitted £1600 SERVICE FROM Skip AllHi raspectse of CARPENTRY t/dryers, dishwashers, elec ovens. on the Downs Mail 24hDECKINGr online boo TOk fDOORS,acility Doors, Windows, Kitchens supplied and • Up Allto work7 Year guaranteed Warranty directory Rofitted,ll On Loft/O Conversions,ffs Doors hung, Your local plumber  Free estimates and call out 199173 4 YaKITCHENSrd Skip £1 &9 2FLOORS. inc Vat Road Permits Arranged • All Heating Problems Fixed downsmail.co.uk Locks fitted, Skirting, small alterations, 01622 673113 07860 174959 6 YALLard Sk JOBSip BIG£22 8& inc SMALL. Vat Waste RecyclingPlastering andFacility Tiling • Anytime:Bath & Shower 07831 557677Installations 01622 721779 All work guaranteed. • No Call Out Charge • Free Quotes 8 YMAKINGard Skip THE £2 BEST64 incOF WOODVat Forge Lane, East Farleigh, 12 Yard Skip £360 inc Vat FREE ESTIMATES Maidstone, Kent ME15 0TH IN AND AROUND THE HOME Family business established 21 years NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREEBathrooms ESTIMATES E:[email protected] CALLMa nCliffy more on services available. See we01622bsite for 743648 details 07940 854927 Mob: 07711 291921 The complete Bathroom TV, Aerials & Satellites31, Sheppey Road, Loose, Maidstone Maintenance Company Chimney Maintenance NO CALL OUT FEE & FREE QUOTES

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38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Classified downsmail.co.uk

Upholstery Water Services continued

Waste Services

Classified downsmail.co.uk Recruitment continued Web Design

downsmail.co.uk

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The ideal candidatein Octo Malli n will have previous PERT post n East Y EX .com arage i OPERT tinco the vic AL PR • Kent R LOC aidstone YOU maidstonea@nem • Mar WIN A time for udding L 290 23 P A Christmas You will be working on the best publications 90 turkey & all sharing this the experience1622 6 in a similar role and will: trim 0 mings Kent’s Most Awarded.uk Optician CHRISTMAS etrists.co Days ou Book Nowwww.op 01732tom 617557 t • Thea tre • H om serving the local community and enjoy a es & G ard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • MB WINDOW CLEANING Autumn 2015 Walks working environment that provides you with • Have a confident and outgoingFRE personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning E • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Gutter, Fasciathe & Conservatory freedom and• Professional flexibility & Reliable to use Service your initiative On the pumpkin •trail Have at excellent communication skills while working within a supportive team. Emmetts Pet Services Leisure01622 863502 07950 211 507 Gard Thise nis a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.ukThe role will [email protected] involve: Ashley week to be worked overJa ck3/4son days (there will be • Handling inbound and making outbound calls Kent’s hockey some flexibility in the hours/dayssuperstar to be worked 01622 880840 Quote ‘The Downs Mail’• Developing business fromAccess existing clients for the right candidate). • Obtaining and growing new business You will require the use of your own car • Working to achieve revenueDenied targets. and have a full driving licence. Window Services The ideal candidate will have previous Basic salary + uncapped commission Double Glazing Repairs WIN A time for A Christmas + bonus. OTE (based on 32 hour week) £18000 pa turkey & all the sharing this experience in a similar role and will: trim mings CHRISTMAS Days ou t • Thea & Locksmith Services Mileagetre • Hallowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Friendly, flexible, omes & Gard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock family owned business. Walks MB WINDOW CLEANING • Have a confident and outgoing personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning• Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes Email applications, including your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Lost key replaced• Be& doors self-motivated opened • Patio and doors, able runners to show & rollers initiative [email protected] 01622 611107• Have excellent / 07967 communication 625 skills447 01622 863502 07950 211 507 This is a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per Four editio ns d elivered to over 88,000 h www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected] Malling Edition omes every m Water Services We are currently recruiting a onth week to be worked over 3/4 days (there will be downsmail.co.uk Maidstone T own | Maidstone & Malling’s Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper THE K ent Co ast | joyed unty S Maidstone South | fine how e bum weat n- per cro her a grou wds at nd FREE nds in the sho Malling M Detling w- ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 July 2016 last r 3,00 year, a 0 up on some flexibility in the hours/days to be worked the ttende No. 231 coun d one ty’s bi of Comp ggest e News etitor vents. and bu s, stallh sinesse olders across s came the cou from Bett the usu ntry bu er buses c al big lo t had PARE Amo cal pre NTS a all ng tho sence. bett re urging action to g Shan, se were er school bus service of Stap Jo Kin Ken S lehurs gs H et helton t, and ill and W s fr bot , of A y Malling. est om h pictu lesford rep red, wh , resente o Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 c hsia G id Ken Phone bo Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ ha roup. K t for the right candidate). s b en een sai s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa how.” derful ERS ved ways of r have com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxens.g thei ith Access ge 16 res, see r Access 4 Recruitment An early Christmas CHILD choristors in are reco M tiv rding a C ereworth B e songs in O D of f r ctob es- id er. g 5 in Pla g yground ange You will require the use of your own car th KINGS Hill r e wer esidents sa r e m b g isled ab y the u plan out y a ne Looking for a change? a p d ne s w i play ar n to ea. TRAD es  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against gym ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty h e one Denied at is th ty to r M e ead y. n e p t d in ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn. set to o Denied the ro nd cou ocal bu op nan Joe’s dash f and have a full driving licence. ute li ncillo si- p en za w out nkin rs wh eopl with ith skirts g the o say e are in w a THE last pub in Di or c ho of th A228 trade looki eek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n t n e in wh rwa rin new tton loo mean he op and g acr en tra rd to g- an office b lleoacske. o ks set an i posite new oss the ffic st a st f life as hou ncreas bank Am bridg arts flo art my se pri e in b will ong th e. w- own ces. usine em is was on busin The £ ss and haird e of th ess. 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It w ry rom a er , d e ago, b H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in Basic salary + uncapped commission usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf s : rs h nt .” ber’s “I was . am w ly mo ord. in To mana ith w ving t nbrid ging lookin ife, K o Wou ge bu a bar- g forw atie, A ld- t I wa ing t ard t lex is nted t o shor o the b also o com ten hi ridge mute s dail open and its quarterly sister publication . y work - 8 YOUR Police LOCA Double Glazing Repairs 01622 690290L PR A FOR to pulpit Insid OPE MER e th RTY ficer Metr is edi maidston eE@XmP ar is t opolit NEW tion: ERT Ma he ne an Pol build lling, w vi ice of- Malli ing p HGV DRIVER,+ bonus. FOR OTE A (based SKIP on 32COMPANY hour week) £18000 pa 23 Puddi Re car a ng are ropos v a t b a ng Lane • M tinco Nick nd W East bridg eing dr ls for .com wi Willia aterin e and awn up aidstone • K th two ms, w gbury on i Mallin as To p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vica ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an rage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk & Locksmith Services Mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata)experienced, Friendly, flexible,all-round journalist to be Deputy Editor. • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lockCONTACT family owned business. FREE D.T Autumn 2015 • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • LetterboxesMARK ON Email applications, includingD.T your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. SKIP HIRE The role entails all aspects of newspaper • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & [email protected] HIRE work so a sound knowledge of news gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Garden The successful candidate will help to

Health Four editio managens deliv a small, dedicated team and ered to over 88,000 h omes e Malling Edition very m We are currently recruiting a deputise for the editor.onth downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone T Theown | deputy editor will Malsoaidstone & Mdrivealling’s content to Maidstone E No. 1 newspaper T HE Ken jo t Coun ast | yed fi ty Sho Maidstone South | b ne w w en- umper eather A time for g crowd and FREE round s at the s in De show- Malling Mor ourtling. expanding daily news website. The role e than 8 sharing this visitors 0,000 , over 3 July 2016 last ye ,000 u ar, a tt p on No. 231 the c ended ounty’ one of Co s bigge mpetit st even News and ors, sta ts. CHRISTMAS busine llholde acro srequiresses ca rs creative input into our popular ss m the co e from Bett the u untry b er buses c sual bi ut ha P A g local d ARENT all mong presen S are s Sh those w ce. better school buurgs isneg action to Walk an, of S ere Jo ns • Ke tapleh Kings H get rde n Shelt urst, an ill an rvices f Ga bo on, of A d Malling. d West rom es & th pict ylesfo om r ured, wmagazinerd, Mid Kent Living. as • H epre ho WINtm e & Beauty sented  the heatr Deputy Editor Fu the M 3 A Chris ll T c hsia G id Ken & a ut • ha roup. K t Phone bo key ys o s been en sai tur mings Da s a won d: “It VILLAG xes sa m how.” derful ERS ha ved tri ways of r ve com More p etaini e up w pa ictu red phone ng thei ith ge 16 res, see boxes. r This is a full time position based at our Recruitment An early Christmas 4 CHILD cho ristors in are recor M tiv ding a C ereworth B e song D of f r s in Octob es- id er. friendlyg offices in Bearsted.5 in Pla g yground anger Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail th KINGS Hi e wer ll reside e m nts s b g isled ab ay the u plan out a y Looking for a change? ap ned ne s w i play ar n to ea. TRAD es  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against gym ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in Le g n ew acro Sno e een dism ybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty hat i ty er M e oney. n s the p to t ed adin ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn set to the ro nd cou ocal b . op onan Joe’s dash f ute li ncillo usi- p en w za w outsk nking rs who eople ithin ith a THE irts o the A2 Salarysay t are lo £28,000we last pu or c pa ho f th 28 rade oki ek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n b in Dit in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath n th n a e in wh rwar ring ew ton lo mean e op nd g acr en tra d to - an off lease of oks set an i posite new oss the ffic st a st ice block life as hou ncreas bank Am bridg arts flo art my se pric e in b will ong th e. w- w own . T es. usines em is as on busin he £ s and haird S e of th ess. Th  w 19 m resser nodla e main e brid Obituaries 28 hich i illion Mack Alex nd to reaso ge h s due road intosh expan open ns I c as be to ope bridg ture (pic- ding a barb hose en bu n in S e, d left The and up er’s. I 32 port, ilt by eptem ope ) wh re are and t’s an Com as the devel ber, ned h o up lots o comin men 1,00 key t oper A is sal all a f new g area t 0 hom o Pete Tren- lexand on th round house . eas e new rs Vil 32dayst er’s in ey fin thannuale a s goin  leave t ban com lage, own’ the ish th rea, g 34 k near munit a s peopl e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With Woul y on t Stree High e will ge, I th nce Sno dha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nveni cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ent fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er d e Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, ago, b , H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in usi e s m x r r e m lly ness aid: “ uters. of ha ecentl ap.” Aylesf ber’s I was m wi y mov ord. in Ton manag l th wif ing to bridg ing a ooking e, Kat Woul e but bar- forwa ie, Ale d- I want ing to rd to x is a ed to shorte the bri lso La Lueur Beauty comm n his d dge op If you woulda likee a new challenge or are keen ute il n and its quarterly sister publication . y work -  Y Police 8 OUR L OCA A to 01622 690290L PRO FOR pulpit Insid good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat PER MER M e this TY E ficer etrop N editi maidstone@XmPEaRr is the olitan EW b on: to makeT Mall in a nestepw Police Mup,uilding we’d love to hear from you. g, vi of- alli p HGV DRIVER, FOR A SKIP COMPANY 23 Pudd Re Teston car a ng are ropos ing Lan tinco v N and t Ea br being als e .com ick Wi Wate st idge a drawn for • Maidston with lliams ringbu o nd Ma up as e • K two so , who ry. n its e lling C Ton- ent post ns, w is ma mergin ouncil Get the glow you deserve in O ill star rried four-p g Loca works cto t in ag l Pl the vic ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an arage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports call Richard on 0757 076 8834 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD Emailwww.optometrists.co.uk your application, including or email: [email protected], all-round journalist your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: to be Deputy Editor. simon.fi[email protected] CONTACTBeauty treatments in the comfortApplicants will of need accessyour to their ownhome vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable FREE MARK ON D.T Autumn 2015 Gelish Manicure £20 • Waxing from £5 Eyelash ExtensionsThe role entails all £50aspects of newspaper SKIP HIRE Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 07860832233 SKIP HIRE work so a sound knowledge of news • Bespoke Neal's Yard Remedies Facialsgathering, £35 news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta Garden Beautiful bride package £65 The successful candidate will help to manage a small, dedicated team and Gelish manicure |Gelish pedicure | Set of individualdeputise for eyelash the editor. The deputy editor will also drive content to extensions OR Bespoke Neals Yard Remedies facial A time for our expanding daily news website. The role sharing this requires creative input into our popular CHRISTMAS alks ens • W Gard mes & magazine Mid Kent Living. as • Ho WINtm tre ll the hea A Chris& a t • T key gs s ou tur min Day To book an appointment contact Lauren on: 07552237100 trim This is a full time position based at our Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail friendly offices in Bearsted. 42 Maidstone Weald August 2018 in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath Salary £28,000 pa 32days annual leave Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, If you would like a new challenge or are keen good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat to make a step up, we’d love to hear from you. call Richard on 0757 076 8834 Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable simon.fi[email protected]

Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 downsmail.co.uk Classified Recruitment Autospray SOLUTIONS

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Working hours are 8.00am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and every other Saturday 8.00am to 1pm. If you feel that you have the skill to join our team please call Sarah on 01622 890933, who will be happy to have a chat with you. Time on your hands? Don’t know what to do? Why not join the Maidstone Hospital League of Friends WE URGENTLY NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS: • To staff the hospital shop which is stocked with a wide variety of sandwiches, crisps, drinks, toiletries, greetings cards, sweets, chocolate, etc. • To take trolleys (containing sweets, drinks, toiletries, etc.) round the wards. • Staff our busy tea bar • Sell books in the book room The League of Friends is a registered charity and all monies raised ensures that it can respond to requests for equipment and improvements in the hospital. If you can spare a few hours a week and would like to join a friendly team doing something rewarding for the community please contact: Jacqui on 01622 224781

Maidstone Weald August 2018 43 Recruitment Are you fed up working Wanted for your current Company and fancy a change? Full time stylist

We are recruiting Maidstone Little Eden - Marden are looking for a Level 2 & 3 Council & Tonbridge & Malling qualified full time stylist to join our friendly upbeat team. Council Licensed Drivers. We offer commission and bonuses on top of a basic Full & Part Time. wage and tips. We have a busy client base waiting for the right stylist. Company Vehicle Drivers All Company Drivers Part Time Saturdays get 43% of takings & Sunday Day Times Contact us on 01622 833088 Other shifts may be available. with no expenses to pay, fuel cards provided. Or call directly on 07976388821 Full Time 8 Seater Mini Bus Drivers Day & Nights Available Owner Drivers Any shifts available, Full Time Car Drivers circuit fee paid at 20% 5-6 evenings per week of total takings up to Full Time Overnight Controller a max of £200 a week. Call 01622 663000 or pop into our town centre office for a friendly chat. 27 Pudding Lane, Maidstone, ME14 1NY On the Road OnSenior the Journalist Road required Mail Publications, publishers of the Downs Mail, Maidstone and Malling's number one newspaper and its quarterly sister publication Mid Kent Living, is looking for an experienced, all-round senior journalist. downsmail.co.uk

Maidstone East Edition Maidstone & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper FREE downsmail.co.uk The role entails all aspects of newspaper October 2017Maidstone East Edition No. 246 Maidstone & Malling’s No.News 1 newspaper Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies THE cast of Cinderella, which is to be FREE KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in Bearsted, work so a sound knowledge of news stone, took to the River Medway to July 2018 No.has died255 aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. David has disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy News Godmother), former EastEnder Ste- MP’s Local Plan bid fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- FoHELENrme Whatelyr may askedor’s theM BE ‘bethR Brighte (Cinderella),lie f Craig road cash’ in government to halt the FORMER mayor Richard Ash, of gathering, news editing, subbing and Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, Beborough’sarsted, ha shousingbeen m ascheme.de an MB E 4 Stephen Richards and Adam Bor- in the Queen’s Birthday zone (Ugly Sisters) . Honours’ List. 3 cTheyo wereu greetedn by pupilsci froml legal action Plans for Dr Nigel South Borough Primary School and THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto Rural post box stolen will walk the Grand MrunsAI fromDST DecemberONE B 1-31.oro uForg htick-Council (MBC) is set to spend tens of thousands A POST box near Beasrted has been Canyon for charity. 12 oetsf t agox to-p www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk.ayers’ money on a judicial review into the release of funds which stolen, leaving just a hole in proofing is needed. The successful candidate the ground. 4 could be set aside for a relief road, Downs Mail can reveal. Jason Donovan date Liberal Democrat-led MBC’s ac- WTHEoo formerdlan Neighboursd buye starr brings tion is being taken directly against A hisBU YshowER o tof t hthee K Hazlitting’s W ood is the Kent County Council (KCC) over soTheatren of a fo nextrme rMay. Bank of 18 the allocation of housing developer England Governor. 5 CCTVcontributions (S106 money). call in a bid will also drive content to our expanding daily MBC’s Urgency Committee – con- vened for the first time since 2015 – Team sports crisis was called together on June 1 for a READ our report on the decline of confidential meeting about the re- some team sports in view. It was attended by Lib Dem Maidstone. 18-19 tocouncil leade stopr Martin Cox, fly-tipping Annabelle Blackmore (Con), Fay CALLSGooch (Ind), forGord theon N installationewton (Inde- of CCTV cameras to prevent fly-tipping on a Health hub is on way news website and contribute features into pendent Maidstone) and Paul MAIDSTONE is set for a care and country road have been made by the local borough councillor. Harper (Lab), who recommended well-being hub with extra thBurberrye judicial re Lane,view o nearn leg Leedsal advic ande. nearby, more than a year after it unlicensed waste carriers, but be- help for the frail. 30 Broomfield,KCC, a Co hasnser beenvative targetedauthorit byy, pwasayer dumpedcould be andas m setuc onh a fire.s £20,000, alievesgreed theto re costlease toth smalle S10 firms6 fund ofs.” dis- wants the cash to carry out surveys Downs Mail has been told. MBC’s Tory leader John Perry – waste dumpers for years, but in re- The church car park has also seen posing of construction waste at a OObituariesbituaries 3232 centfor a months,Leeds-La thengle problemy relief r hasoad be-or manyIt is n instancesot known ofif £ illegal200,00 dumping.0 already wtransferho was u stationnable to isa provingttend the aJu deter-ne 1 released by MBC to KCC for relief comeother p moreroject acute.s. But it is a problem in many rural mrenteetin thatg – s isai costingd: “We, a councilss an auth more.ority, Parish Councils 34-35 We understand MBC’s legal ad- road surveys is affected by the judi- are trying to develop the relation- Parish Councils 34-35 Construction waste, rubble, hard careasial rev includingiew. Langley, Otham Cllr Fort made her remarks as our popular magazine Mid Kent Living and visers are concerned that S106 cash ship with KCC. I have obvious con- ASH dieback has been discovered in core, windows and household fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in one of the borough’s closest trans- has already been allocated to trans- One MBC insider accused the Lib TRAFFIC in Leeds, especially the niture is left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have cfererns stationsabout thi ats.” North Farm, Tun- Monks Meadow in Detling; port elements in individual housing Dems of “playing politics” with the shHollingbournearp rise in lorriesvillage defyin g fete the stall-vil- in the middle of the road. Talsoorie beens at K targetedCC, wh recently.ile another de- bridgeMP H Wells,elen W announcedhately, who ith willelped be schemes agreed within the Local laholderge’s we co-ordinatoright restrictio Jeann, con Duffytinue t haso PlaCllrn. Gill Fort said: “Every month scrLastibed year,the c Maidstoneounty autho Boroughrity of sclosedet up a g forrou 10p t weeks.o end years of squab- caresigned;use proble yellowms; the linesissue oaref d oneededgs al- weM areBC h havingopes S10 toilets,6-funde sinksd junct andion bCouncileing “th clearede aggre 911sso casesr usin ofg fly-tip-bully- blinSheg be added:tween M “IfBC youand goK alongCC ove ther loforwe dBuffkyn to run lo Way,ose in Otham Holling,b toou allowrne constructionimprovement wastes as we dumpedll as contr inov theer- bpingoy tac andtics” thisto ge yeart fun moreds for thanprojec 163ts, thlinee re oflie increasingf road, said fines,: “It do theyesn’t haveseem to habusess b ethroughen rai sImperialed; dra Park;ins rub-in village,sial “mod specificallyal shift” – the inau Burberrythority’s shaveuch a beens the recordedLeeds-Lan sincegley April.relief libeke a enforced.very positi Ave reductionway of over incom the- Dobishwn sw binsood h ina v thee be e sportsn block e fieldd; ca r in have the necessary skills to help manage a Lane,encour whereagemen wet of arewa nowlking thinking, cycling rTheoad. approaching darker evenings inchargeg a dis orag offeringreement itbe freetwe mayen th haveese repairs being carried out at garages Kingswood are to be moved over to ofand installingtaking bu camerasses – wi onll m privateitigate willOn prompte insider as riseaid: in“I illegalt’s funn tipping.y how twtheo a desireduthoriti similares, or a p effect.”ositive way to in Leeds would be investigated by the Lib Dems waited until they had the picnic area and rear exit. land,agains tot t overseehe expe thected problemtraffic e area.”xplo- Cllr Fort welcomed a joint initia- getAa three-monthlyrelief road. litter pick on the the PCSO; a quote for grass-cutting sion associated with 17,600 new got back into power in May before A recent event in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency mile-long“I am dis stretchappoint ofed roadto se throughe MBC in Detling is to be sought. homes agreed in the plan. deciding they wanted a judicial re- Crime Reports 35 saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- taking legal action against KCC.” The cost of the review to the tax- view, having already reluctantly Leeds village produces an average torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32Le blackeds P sacksarish ofCo rubbish.uncil chairman CVEHICLESrime Re havepor t beens driven 3 5 over JohCllrn Go Fort,vett s a whoid: “ O alsone w servesould h o aspe a farmland in Lenham, causing small dedicated team and deputise for the thparishat KC C councillor,does not h a saysve to s teachingtop the A damgeROOFIN G to l ad crops;der w a ans s to attemptedlen from schildrentudies be abouting ca rsocialried o responsibilityut while the a break-invehicle i nwas Bo reportedxley; the inb aDetlingck win-; a randevie wtheis issueongo iofng litter- or w inil lschoolsthey ha willve dovehiclew of ca wasr pa rvandalisedked in Bea rinst eBearstedd was tohelpstop take? I h othepe tissueo goo doffne sthes th streets.ey are smRd,as heWeaveringd; road to; ol pumpkinss were ta k wereen allowed to crack on.” frostolenm a t ra fromnsit v an an i n B allotmentearsted; a in She believes with every household lawn mower was stolen from a gar- MBC confirmed a judicial review, Lenham. YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receiving a weekly refuse collection den shed in Otham; a car door was bservice,ut refus ethered to c isom nom eexcusent furt hforer .litter dented at Tesco in . [email protected] beingKCC le thrownader Pa ul fromCart er vehiclesdid not r e or- Comment 46-47 Editor. Some evening and weekend working 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent tudumpedrn our c ainlls the. road. Comment 46-47

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38 Malling October 2017 Maidstone Weald August 2018 45 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Fears grow over cancer delays TH E big cancer unit at Maidstone area of our vital infrastructure needing t Hospital has been held in very high more national support. esteem across Kent for many years – but MailMarks Under-staffing levels in the NHS have worries now grow, after months of serious DENNIS FOWLE President been well documented and this unit is no failures in meeting national targets for exception. There are the funds – but not assessing and treating patients. [email protected] enough staff available to recruit. Most worrying is Maidstone and Body scanning by sophisticated Tunbridge Wells Hospital Trust’s consultant referral, then two weeks can be equipment is a key to cancer performance against the national target of a long time to wait. More than one in 10 investigations and there is pressure on 85% for 62-day cancer treatment. In the locally now have to wait even longer. scanners and qualified staff available. light of the accepted urgency for most of The most worrying situation is the delay GPs are under NHS instructions to refer these treatments, the trust’s record is very for treatment. The NHS target of 62 days patients to consultants at a lower level of concerning for the seven months to the for cancer treatment can seem a lifetime cancer suspicion. This means many more year end in April. They were: 81.25% for those stricken by this awful disease investigations, often of patients found to (month 6), 79.10%, 73.68%, 80.90%, and locally at least, one in five have to be all clear. 75.49%, 69.70% and 76.03%. Average for wait even longer. Most will want this Media publicity on cancer awareness the complete year was 76.59%. treatment as quickly as possible, but only has encouraged the public to visit their The performance for two-week cancer those who can afford private care can be GPs and raise their worries earlier. waits is worrying too. This concerns all sure of this urgency. The hospital trust recently indicated that suspected cancers and the national target I know consultants are mostly caring new approaches and staff recruitment is 93% for urgent GP referrals to be seen and want to meet patient wishes, but too “will bring renewed focus on action and within two weeks of the referral date. The often pressures and the system are stacked delivery”. Cancer is now the number one trust’s percentages were: 89.77 (month 6) against them. priority for the trust, after its successful followed by 88.51, 89.35, 88.40, 85.70, 89.80 Missed targets in our local hospitals drive to improve A&E performance and 84.41 (April/May). The year average have brought great national pressure on against national targets. was 87.99%. both the hospital trust and the budget- We must wish them well. This truly is a A report for February and March holding GP-led West Kent Clinical ma�er of life and death. showed 12 patients waited longer than 102 Commissioning Group (CCG). Both have days – the majority of them on the urology suffered “required improvement” ratings Where now Brexit? cancers pathway; 14 breaches were due to from the national Care Quality I A M grateful for all comments and the complexity of the disease and Commission, partly because of this factor correspondence after my article last investigations; 10 were lack of capacity or (the CCG has now regained its “good” month: “Maidstone needs a real Brexit”. delays by the trust; 10 were waiting for status and it seems the trust now moves in Maidstone voted decisively for Brexit palliative treatment, eight for surgery and the right directions). The CCG works in the referendum two years ago, and two were down to patient choice. closely with the trust to try to hit targets while my latest evidence suggests that The hospital trust makes statements that again. this Brexit opinion has hardened, local this long run of badly-missed targets is not What are the key pressures on the trust passions flow powerfully in both seriously impacting on health and lives causing this long run of missed targets? directions. and “no patient harm has arisen”. I wish I There are several: I asked last month: Who knows what could share this confidence for about 2,000 The Maidstone cancer unit serves the rebellions and political upheavals will be who are currently on the hospital cancer majority of patients from West Kent area around if the huge Brexit vote is flouted pathway. and also takes patients from neighbouring by politicians? We are already beginning If a patient, near loved-ones and a GP areas of the county. As this population to find out. What significant times we now believe there is a strong case for a grows at great pace, this is another key live through indeed.

Term an insult to readers Commons a final say on the deal, not Brexit. But there are many more. fighting the principle of Brexit. Fair play to Yes, we are feeling rebellious. I HAVE been a reader of the Downs Mail them. Roger Cross, Maidstone for many years and enjoy both its content This is a highly complex ma�er that and editorial. I was however, disappointed should have been be�er planned and Modal shift for the M20? to read Dennis Fowle’s Mail Marks in the executed, with an outline process for July edition. RECENT reports about how the M20 is leaving the EU set out prior to the likely to cope with the consequences of a Dennis has regularly made his point referendum. Significant time has been lost about Brexit – fair enough, we are all “no deal” Brexit does not yet seem to alarm through government infighting and much entitled to do that. However, in using the anyone in Maidstone, apart from vocal of the current confusion and fudge is down awful and insulting term “remoaners”, he Liberal Democrat and Tory councillors at to mismanagement and huge egos. does a disservice to the many readers in the County Hall. David Hall, Bearsted Downs Mail who do not share his view. Operation Stack has been in place for 30 His rant about the current state of affairs years, while MPs and Whitehall have got would be best directed at those members of Give us a real Brexit nowhere trying to find a lorry park site. No the Conservative party who promoted I HAVE become increasingly concerned MP wanted it on their patch and when a Brexit before the referendum, but then that politicians will not ensure the real site was found, it didn’t stand even cursory backed away from the leadership when the Brexit the majority of Maidstone people legal scrutiny. That appears to be the process ideally needed to be managed by a voted for in the referendum and I am absolute least of anyone’s worries now. Brexiteer. heartened by Dennis Fowle’s comments There is more than a good chance that It remains the case that Mrs May’s (Mail Marks). there will be terrible problems on the M20 position is relatively safe because no one So many friends are depressed by the and I am not convinced the “Brock” else wants the role at this time. Some serious deterioration in the quality of local contraflow system will stand even the Conservative MPs are trying to ensure that life due to over population and over slightest prang in either direction. democracy prevails, giving the House of development, and these are key reasons for Perhaps Highways England should

46 Maidstone Weald August 2018 downsmail.co.uk consult Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) deleted. Not only is this a cowardly and me, it was clearly a deer. and try to devise a “modal shift” solution to unwarranted a�ack from someone who isn’t I have played golf at Tudor Park for 20 C o m e n the issue of impending traffic chaos – say, prepared to stand up and be counted, but years, and this is the first sighting of a deer ask the freight companies to use buses, hop it’s also a classic case of elitist snobbery, in the grounds that I’m aware of, so there on a bike or walk. without any foundation in fact. has to be a possibility of this being another If MBC reckons it can work for 17,600 new Some people say “Beersted”, others say sighting of a muntjac. homes (and possibly 7,000 more) with no “Barestead”. Neither is correct – or Murray Pennells, via email t new roads, surely it can be an option for the incorrect. It’s a simple case of semantics. predicted 17-mile tailbacks and carnage on Who is to say if it is scon or scawn, bath or Strange sounds explained the A roads after March 30, 2019. barth, book or buwk, cook or cuwk? It all S Deering, via email depends in which part of the country you I HAVE just read an article in the Downs live – and which bit of history you believe. Mail that has answered my question …what Job losses are the reality The email was clearly sent from someone is that sound? Over the last couple of months, my THE “huge Brexit vote” to which Dennis who does not appreciate the beauty of the English language, along with its li�le husband and I have been spending longer Fowle refers, when looked at nationally in our garden in the evening. When we first rather than locally, amounted to 37% of the idiosyncrasies, which most of us embrace as heard the sounds, around dusk, we were a electorate voting to leave the EU. Hardly the part of its charm. It might make it a li�le freaked out. I did record them on my most resounding mandate for such far- nightmare for other nationalities to learn – phone but have since deleted them. reaching change. but, hey, it doesn’t stop them trying! At the time of the referendum, Britain had No scholar has ever been able to se�le the In the first instance, I Googled fox and bat one of the most rapidly growing economies argument as to whether it should be scone sounds, but to no avail. Now having in Europe. Now it is one of the slowest. or scoooone, so I think it highly unlikely listened to muntjac sounds on YouTube, I EU laws for cleaner air and water or be�er anyone could make a case for an alcoholic am 100% positive that is what we heard. workers’ rights are ignored in that piece. Bearsted – or a naked one. Liz Quinnell, Headcorn His Guardian-reading friends need to Commuters will have noted that remember that, over the years, immigrants Southeastern trains announcers favour the Building scaering deer have contributed to economic and cultural beery one; personally, I’m in favour of the I SAW your article on the muntjac deer in life in the UK. naked version. Maidstone. Has anyone seen them in the Meanwhile, Tata has already relocated English is a rich and diverse language grounds of Palace Wood School and also in production of the Discovery to Slovakia and which has evolved over centuries. the grounds of Allington Castle? Thurnham began life as Thornham. Should BMW, Nissan Airbus as well as various I’m in Allington and the general opinion we revert to that, perhaps? American pharmaceutical companies, have is that the building on Hermitage Lane is Nobody should be allowed to take the expressed misgivings about their unse�ling and sca�ering them. Feelings are moral high ground, particularly when they continuing commitment to a post-Brexit running high in this area and there have leave no right of reply. Instead of criticising Britain. been postings on social media to that effect. Thousands of livelihoods remain at risk the chairman for his pronunciation of the These deer have been living quietly in the and, while it is true that none of these title of his home village, perhaps they might woods for many years, and now seem to be companies operate in Maidstone, no town like to congratulate him and his peers for finding quieter places to live. can be an island unto itself. the work they do to keep our village the After the referendum, Boris Johnson said lovely place that it is to live – whatever it Maureen Nash, Maidstone the country should not pay a penny to the might be called. EU coffers in the final se�lement. The exact Jon Hughes, Bearsted bill turned out to be £39 billion. And there Help us help youngsters you have it – the posturing and the reality. THE Salvation Army in Maidstone is trying K G Banks, Maidstone Muntjac on the golf course? to raise funds to take 40 “referred” children I READ with interest the Downs Mail report to a summer camp for a five-day break. of the muntjac deer sightings in the area. These children would not otherwise have a What’s in a village name? Although, I can’t be sure of the exact type, holiday or a break away from home. FOLLOWING the recent annual meeting of I and my playing partners, did see a small The camp will be from August 13-17, but Bearsted Parish Council, the clerk received deer several weeks ago, on the Tudor Park we would be grateful for any donations as an anonymous email from a resident golf course, near Caring Lane. soon as possible, for details email criticising the chairman’s pronunciation of My first thought was that it was a large [email protected]. Many the name Bearsted. When she tried to dog, but when it ran across a fairway from thanks in advance. respond, the email account had been woodland to woodland, directly in front of Mandy Fuller, via email

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