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Maidstone Town | Maidstone East | Maidstone South | Malling April 2016 No. 228

News Online loery could Election decision ’S controversial police and crime commissioner Ann Barnes says she will not restand 5 be winner for council in the May elections. Religious concern CASH-strapped and Malling Council is hoping to hit the jackpot A PROPOSAL to rebuild a by becoming the first local authority in Kent to launch an online lottery. mosque in the town cen-  tre has been criticised. 6 The weekly lotto will cost £1 per to support their chosen local charity Council play, with a maximum prize of with 50p from every £1 ticket sold. said it was too expensive to run the £25,000 – a chance of about one in a Of the remaining 50p, 20p will go to lottery in-house as the cost of buying Friday is market day million, but more than a hundred the prize fund, 12p to an external lot- the necessary software was about A FARMERS’ market will take times better odds than winning the tery manager and 18p to a central £50,000 and staff would be needed to place every month in  Euromillions draw. pot, administered by the council, for administer it. Jubilee Square. 12 Cabinet members approved in- distribution to other good causes. If About £10,000 of the council’s ini- vesting £13,000 in the scheme, which a player does not have a charity in tial outlay will go to software com- it is hoped will raise money for good mind, the amount paid into the cen- pany Capen Ltd for setting it up, Moving from Mote causes including clubs, societies and tral pot will be 68p. website design, branding support MAIDSTONE Mela will be held in village halls. These previously ben- The top-prize winner will need to and admin costs, and £3,000 will be the town centre for the  efited from the council’s Commu- match six numbers to win £25,000 spent on marketing. first time, this September. 16 nity Enhancement Fund, which it and their chosen good cause will The prize fund will be insured, used to help charities, but this pot of also receive a matching amount. with the premiums payable by money, drawn from the Govern- There will be further prizes of £1,000 Capen Ltd, so there will be no finan- Murder case on hold ment’s New Homes Bonus, ran out for five correct numbers and £100 for cial risk to the counci. THE retrial of a man convicted of last year. Faced with increasing fi- four correct numbers, plus three free The council will apply to the Gam- killing a local teacher in nancial challenges, the council could plays for three correct numbers. bling Commission for a licence to Qatar has been delayed. 24 no longer make such payments. Tickets will be available online and operate a remote local author-  The new lottery will allow players winners will be notified by email. ity lottery. If successful, the 6 Crime Reports 28 BOOKS were taken from a prop- erty in . Carys makes light work of title 46-47 A BARMING teenager lucky to be alive after being Comment 32 born severely premature is targeting the Olympics  after winning a regional weightlifting title. Obituaries 32 Carys Harper (15), who attends St Augustine’s Acad-  emy in Maidstone, won the Lion Heart category at this Parish Councils 40-41 year’s Celebrate Maidstone awards for overcoming dif- THERE were calls to move bottle ficulties to achieve great things. banks in Addington; a jazz band Born 12 weeks premature and weighing only 3lb, could be performing in Ditton; a Carys – daughter of Zoe Reed and step-dad Chris – was medical surgery had been re- initially unable to breathe without an incubator. Diag- prieved in ; speed nosed with dyscalculia, a brain disorder causing diffi- cameras were requested in Mere- culty in making arithmetical calculations, she struggled worth; a defibrillator was planned at school but with the help of Jayne Bradshaw, her men- weightlifting and, in just two years she has gone from in ; a stone was fired from tor at St Augustine’s Academy, she refused to give up. beginner to competing at a national level. Carys won a pub using a catapult in Her fighting spirit led her to take up kickboxing, re- silver in the British Schools Weightlifting Champi- . ceiving her junior black belt in March 2013. onship in February 2015 and gold in the 2015 London & SE Junior Championships, 4 Teacher Michael Blackford introduced her to Town Talk A MEETING looked into sug- gestions to repair All Saints’ Hospital woe Church, . For more DRASTIC financial measures details see Town Talk in the have been necessary to keep central pages of this month’s YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT afloat the Kims private hospital, Downs Mail. The bi-monthly which lost £15m in its first year. independent magazine is dedi- 01622 690290 [email protected] Full story – page 26. cated to Snodland and Halling 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent residents. 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2 Malling April 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Learn more about Brexit Lady rowers show they BUSINESS owners in Maidstone anxious to learn more about what impact a British exit from the EU could have on employment in the can take on the best UK – and their own organisation – are invited to attend one of a series YOUNG women from Maidstone of workshops in the town. Invicta Rowing Club have been The impact of the June 23 refer- showing the country that “Kent endum on UK employment law is Girls Can”. one of the topics being examined The club are supporting the KCC sporting initiative which is aimed at by Kent law firm Furley Page in getting more girls into sport. partnership with Kent Invicta Three eight-women crews were Chamber of Commerce. among those taking part in the re- Sessions will be led by Andrew cent Hammersmith Head race on Masters, partner and head of em- the Thames – a shorter version of the ployment at Furley Page, and Oxford and Cambridge boat race. Amanda Okill, an associate who This was the first race on the The Junior Ladies crew with coach James Knight specialises in employment law. Thames for many of Maidstone’s They take place at the Mercure crews and a different experience Second in this category were the invited to row in a London RC crew. Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. For from the sheltered River Medway. Women’s Junior 16 girls eight, who The Junior 18 boys eight came sec- details, call 01233 503838 or email MIRC press officer Richard Bald- had to race up an age group with a ond to London Oratory School and [email protected]. win said: “This was a great club per- time of 13:34, coming 99th overall. 34th overall with a time of 12:21. formance against tough opposition Both girls’ crews beat Emanuel The Junior Ladies went to London and despite quite a bit of lost train- School’s crew, who were racing on with coach James Knight to receive Charity sale ing due to high river levels.” their home water. their winning pots for the Hammer- GRAB a bargain at Maidstone Five boats from Maidstone raced The adult ladies’ eight finished in smith Head. Six of the crew, plus cox Mencap’s plant, book and cake over the 4.5km course, against 147 13:52 and were placed 109th overall, Cathy Metcalf, were present to re- sale on Saturday, May 21. competitors drawn from rowing while the club’s youngest crew of ceive their trophies. The event begins at 2.30pm clubs and schools from across the the day was the J15 coxed quad fin- The crew were also presented with at Cobtree Hall, School Lane South East and Thames Valley. ishing 118th overall in 14:00 and two plaques for Fastest Junior Ladies (off Willington Street), Maid- The Maidstone Women’s Junior 18 third in their category. Crew and also WJ18 8+. stone. crew came in at the fastest time of all The fastest Maidstonian was di- Anyone interested in rowing or For details contact Rita on WJ18 crews on the day with an im- rector of rowing, Brian Humphris, coxing at Maidstone should go to 07790 643218. pressive 13.24mins, coming in 91st who finished eighth in 11:46 and www.maidstoneinvicta.co.uk or overall. winning Masters Eights after being find them on Facebook.

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Malling April 2016 3 News | Celebrate Maidstone downsmail.co.uk Town’s stars shine at ceremony REPRESENTATIVES from businesses, schools, charities, public services and arts groups gathered at the Celebrate Maidstone 2016 gala event to recognise the contribution of the town’s brightest stars. Those attending the black tie-af- for our wonderful team of peace- fair at Kent County Showground, makers, who give up their time, vis- Lionheart title near Detling, included Deputy iting people in their homes and Lieutenant of Kent Bill Cockcroft, helping them to talk to each other.” Deputy Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Neil Pattison, chairman of Cele- for Carys Derek Butler, and MP Helen Grant. brate Maidstone, said: “Maidstone Continued from page one They enjoyed performances from is growing and benefits from strong ranked first in the county for her the Hazlitt Youth Theatre, the businesses, a healthy economy, and weight category. Maidstone Nepalese Dance Group, high employment. Her dream is to compete at the and the King Street band. “We also need quality of life re- Olympics and become a successful When asked what she thought sulting from a strong community physical trainer, encouraging other the best thing was about receiving glued together by love, compassion young children to take an interest the lifetime achievement award, and forgiveness. Let us follow the in this otherwise male-dominated winner Annette Hinton, of Maid- example and inspiration of the peo- sport. Annette Hinton stone Mediation, said: “Recognition ple recognised by these awards.” Carys was one of eight community stars given awards at the gala event, which took place at the Kent Show- ground near Detling. Carys thanked Mrs Bradshaw, Mr Blackford and the Reverend Kes Grant for support and nominating her. She also paid Sarah Allsebrook of Frederic Bistro Annabelle Pearsall, Maidstone Museum Donna Carr tribute to her weightlifting coach Matt Vine, who gives up his time to train with Carys three days a week and attends competitions at week- ends all over the country because he believes that she has the poten- tial to fulfil her dreams. Chairman of Celebrate Maid- stone Neil Pattison said: “Carys is an inspiration to us all, demon- strating that even difficult hurdles can be overcome with determina- tion and a fighting spirit. A worthy winner and a star of Maidstone; we are proud of you, Carys.” Janet Judges Steve Purvis Jill Maynord Celebrating contributions to community  Lionheart – Carys Harper (spon- food quality. The restaurant was  Mentor – Janet Judges Through Donna’s hard work, sored by Maidstone Churches). also awarded runner-up in the Kent Janet has worked as a volunteer Maidstone Parkrun has become one  Customer Experience – Jill May- Independent Trading Awards in for more than 20 years, serving of the largest parkruns in Kent. It nard (sponsored by Manak Solici- 2013. Rated highly on Tripadvisor, Maidstone Police Station. She has has more than 4,000 registered tors). Frederic Bistro is fast becoming a made a difference to the lives of members and a regular turnout of Jill and her husband Jim estab- jewel in Maidstone's dining and hundreds of young people who 200-300 runners. Donna started lished Zeroth Clinical Exercise in restaurant experience. find themselves in police custody. Maidstone Parkrun, which is run by 2003 to provide exercise therapy  Visitor Attraction – Maidstone Her patience, commitment and volunteers, just over two years ago. and rehabilitation for people of all Museum warm friendly nature enables her to Donna is present every weekend ages, including support for MS suf- Recently refurbished, the Maid- advise young people in a way that encouraging runners, joggers and ferers, children with behavioural is- stone Museum contains a rich his- makes a difference, and in many walkers of all ages. sues, and those tackling excessive tory of the county town that is free cases reduces their offending.  Lifetime Achievement – An- weight, as well as improving fit- to all entrants. Dawn Hudd, head of  Innovator – Steve Purvis nette Hinton (sponsored by Kent ness. Jill “listens, helps, supports, economic development at Maid- Steve is part of the charity Parents Event Centre). encourages and treats people like stone Council, said: “From invest- is the Word, which brings together Annette worked hard to establish they were an old friend.” ing in essential maintenance works parents in Park Wood. Steve has Maidstone Mediation in the 1990s,  Business – Frederic Bistro (spon- to scheduling an exciting calendar been a key person in helping with training volunteer mediators and sored by Creation Healthcare). of events and exhibitions, our aim the children’s work and to distrib- pioneering what was a relatively The Earl Street restaurant was is to aid the development of Maid- ute food parcels, and regularly goes new concept. Since then the idea of nominated due to its high stan- stone as one of the most significant above and beyond for the charity. mediation and restorative justice dards, relaxing and homely atmos- areas of culture and heritage within  Community – Donna Carr has been duplicated across the phere and excellent consistency in Kent.” (sponsored by Golding Homes). country and internationally.

4 Malling April 2016 downsmail.co.uk Police elections | News Bradbourne House I’ve done my Tours time, says Ann Discover T he H istory of KENT’S police and crime commis- sioner Ann Barnes is not standing Bradbourne House – One house, for re-election. 12 Baronets and a host of stories Mrs Barnes, who was elected to to delight the discerning visitor. the post in 2012, has been a promi- nent figure during her term of office £25 per person • includes a traditional – and not always for the right rea- sons. cream tea in the Great Hall She has fought to retain the num- ber of police officers on the streets in Monday 4th July the face of swingeing budgetary ity for seven years. Monday 1st August cuts and has set up a successful sex- Having spent more than 15 years ual assault referral centre and im- in police accountability and gover- proved the services of victim nance, Mrs Barnes believes she has Monday 5th September support in the county. “done her time” and said: “I am Monday 3rd October But she received widespread content that I have delivered what I ridicule after appearing in a fly-on- said I would and is in a Monday 7th November the-wall documentary on Channel 4 very strong and sustainable position about the role of the commissioner for the future.” (pictured). She warned candidates vying to If you are a member of a Mrs Barnes made a public apol- replace her that they will need to be gardening club or otherorganisation ogy and admitted she had been un- prepared to work around the clock, and would like to book a tour just listen to the public and put the peo- wise to appear in the programme, in for your group please call us on: which she struggled to explain what ple of Kent first – not a political her role involved and was filmed party and not Westminster. 01732 523755 having difficulty defining an ap- She concluded: “I have been hon- Bradbourne House, East Malling, Kent ME19 6DZ proach to policing priorities called oured to have the chance to meet “the onion”. She also failed to write and work with so many wonderful www.emr.ac.uk/short-courses her title correctly on a whiteboard individuals and organisations who For more information please call EMSC 01732 523755, and was filmed painting her nails in work tirelessly in Kent to make life or email: [email protected] the office. better for our communities. Their A former teacher, Merseyside- compassion, professionalism and born Mrs Barnes moved to Kent kindness is inspirational. more than 30 years ago and has “We should never forget these un- East Malling Research Tours been a magistrate since 1986. Before sung heroes who only want the best being elected as commissioner, she for us and I am proud to have got to History Tours of was chair of the Kent Police Author- know and work closely with them.” Fruit Science at East Malling Research Timetable of the election 2016 THE poll will coincide with local dates who get more than 50% of authority elections on May 5 and the vote in the first count will be the count will take place at Dover elected. Spring Tours - Plant Breeding Town Hall on May 6. Otherwise, all but the top two Nadeem Aziz, chief executive candidates are eliminated and Monday 16th May at Dover District Council, has the second preference vote e been appointed the returning of- comes into play, ultimately de- Summer Tours - Water, ficer. ciding the candidate with the Pests & Disease Mrs Barnes will relinquish her most votes. reign on May 11 and the new Mrs Barnes was elected with a Monday 18th July PCC will take command the fol- majority of 53,889 but this year’s Monday 8th August lowing day. The electorate will victory is likely to be much less have two votes. Any of the candi- clear cut. Autumn Tours - Harvest, Pruning & Storage Conviction could bar Fergus Monday 12th September PROPERTY tycoon Fergus Wilson has launched Monday 10th October a controversial high-profile campaign in his bid Monday 14th November to be Kent’s next police and crime commissioner. However, with a conviction for assault to his £22 per person name, he might have to pull out of the race. Mr Wilson (67), pictured, from Boughton Monchelsea, says he has instructed his solicitors To book visit: to appeal against the conviction, in April 2015, www.emr.ac.uk/short-courses after he was found guilty of hitting estate agent Daniel Wells and fined £1,500. Or phone 01732 523755 Candidates who have put themselves forward so far include: Henry Bolton (Ukip), Tim Garbutt (Ind), David Naghi (Lib Dem), Tristan Os- borne (Lab), Gurvinder Sandher (Independent), Matthew Scott (Con), www.emr.ac.uk/short-courses Fergus Wilson (Ind) and Steve Uncles (English Democrats). For more information please call EMSC 01732 523755, or email: [email protected]

Malling April 2016 5 News downsmail.co.uk Mosque plan raises concerns NEIGHBOURS have expressed ries of extensions”, but says a plan to concerns over a plan to level Maid- turn it into a three-storey building stone’s mosque and rebuild it as a represents “total overdevelopment”. three-storey building. He also comments on the parking A planning application submitted problems caused on days of wor- to Maidstone Council proposes ship, adding: “There is not enough transforming the Mote Road prem- parking in Melville, Kingsley, and ises into a centre for worship, in- Hastings Road already.” Artists’ work goes on show cluding a prayer room, classrooms, John Peden moved to Melville WATER colour paintings by members of an art club are being hung on the kitchen, offices, library and washing Road less than two months ago and walls of the new Paddlesworth Room and the hall leading to the room at facilities for the Islamic community, says he is already aware of parking Snodland Community Centre. with three shops, for lease, to pay for and congestion issues. In a letter to The first three paintings by STARA (Snodland Town Active Retirement As- the building. However, there would the council, he says: “It is already sociation) Art Club have been presented by Ken Sansom (left) and Keith be just two parking spaces, with the difficult enough to navigate the Holdstock (right) to Chris and Linda Howick. Another nine are to follow. applicant suggesting up to 200 wor- roads around this area and find a Keith, who runs the club at Townsend Hook Bowls Club in Paddlesworth shippers would attend services. parking space. The extra traffic that Road, said: "Chris asked if the art group would like to hang some of its pictures Maidstone Council, which will de- this redevelopment would poten- in the rooms at the community centre. I came up with the idea of a series of termine the application, has received tially bring in would make an al- drawings/paintings which showed off sights of Snodland and local flora." almost 20 letters from neighbours, ready bad situation much worse.” concerned about the size of the de- He says the building would over- velopment and parking problems. look properties and “lead to a level Council loery could boost funds Others have expressed concern of discomfort” for neighbours, and Continued from page one Cllr Martin Coffin , the council’s about the scale of the building, questions the need for shops within first draw will be in June. cabinet member for finance said: which would overshadow neigh- the development, which is 400m Adrian Stanfield, Tonbridge and “The lottery offers an opportunity bouring properties. from the town centre and across the Malling Council’s director of central for voluntary and community Neighbour Andy Woodward is road from Sainsbury’s. services and monitoring officer, said groups to raise money for their good concerned the development could Hayley Collins, from Kingsley that the council must take all rea- causes without the overheads of op- damage the foundations of his prop- Road, says residents who pay £25 for sonable steps to ensure information erating a traditional fundraiser.” erty in Mote Road. parking permits already find they about responsible gambling and Charities and organisations wish- He describes the current single- can’t park and more shops would how to get help for problem gam- ing to benefit from the scheme storey mosque as a “ramshackle se- add to the issue of illegal parking. bling was readily available. should email [email protected]. VOTE David Naghi - On May 5th Police & Crime Commissioner

David Naghi is a successful local businessman and Maidstone Borough Councillor, he has represented East Ward for 14 years, during this time he has served on the Licensing Committee; which has given him an insight into many issues relating to public safety and anti-social behavior. Retired Kent Police Chief Superintendent Richard Rixon says: “A key requirement of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is to provide an effective link between Kent Police and the communities it serves. This means consulting local people and organisations, listening to their views www.naghiforppc.org.uk and taking appropriate action. David Naghi has 14 years experience of reflecting the needs of the community [email protected] in his role as Borough Councillor. Through being accountable to the electorate and representing the public he has built useful relationships and delivered consistent results. This kind of proven track record is essential for anyone putting themselves forward for the post of PCC in Kent.” David says:”I have seen how the police are losing the trust of the community. At the same time some crimes are being tolerated, whilst the police seem uninterested. They should be supporting community, events and initiatives. David wants to rebuild trust and look to reduce central costs, including those of the Commissioner’s Office and advisors, and refocus on front line services.”

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Malling April 2016 7 News downsmail.co.uk Charity shop Concern over route of for homeless MAIDSTONE’S newest charity has signed the lease on its first shop. MADM – Making a Difference to new Thames crossing Maidstone – was set up to help the homeless and disadvantaged in the TONBRIDGE and Malling Coun- town and works cil has serious concerns about the with other charities traffic impact on Bluebell Hill, to help those who should a new Thames crossing be live on the streets or built near Gravesend. sleep rough. While the council fully supports MidKent College the need for a third Thames cross- The route of the has refurbished the ing and Highways ’s pre- shop, in Church ferred location (a bored tunnel to Eastern Southern Street, as a commu- the east of Gravesend) the council Link is the option nity project, and students are lend- wants the Department of Transport preferred by ing a hand with interior design. to bring forward schemes which Maidstone The charity needs a warehouse or will upgrade the A229 and routes Council for the storage space for furniture and between the M20 and M2. proposed goods that have been donated. The council’s director of plan- Thames Crossing ning Steve Humphrey told the cab- Charity founder Amanda Sidwell inet: “There is significant concern Douglas Horner, a director of Crossing without upgrades to one has befriended most of the town’s that without investment to improve Trenport Investments, which is be- of the most direct routes to it from homeless, through her work with key points in the highway network, hind the Peters Village project at the south will only exacerbate con- the winter shelter scheme, meals severe and unacceptable impacts , has criticised this ap- gestion issues, resulting in a dam- for the homeless at the Baptist on the A229 Bluebell Hill and the proach as “short-term and piece- aging impact on the local Church and Salvation Army and Lord Lees roundabout, junction 6 meal planning”. economy,” said Mr Humphrey. CRI Maidstone (the West Kent Re- of the M20 and, to some extent, the Tonbridge and Malling has The council believes most drivers covery Service for drug and alcohol A228 will result.” urged Highways England to revisit using the Eurotunnel at Folkestone abusers), and is known by the soup Consultants working on the the plan and consider including im- or the port of Dover would use the run teams and numerous associ- scheme have said they do not think provements to the A229. new tunnel, putting the brunt of ated organisations/charities. improvements to the A229 are nec- “Given the existing congestion extra traffic onto the A229. She is also looking for volunteers essary and would make the project around Junctions 5/6 of the M20 Highways England identified to help man the shop, which was unaffordable. and /Lord Lees three potential routes for a twin due to be open by Easter. Email her However, they have said they roundabout (M2 Junction 3), the tunnel between Essex and Kent and at [email protected] or could be considered in the future. opening of the Lower Thames came down in favour of option C. call 07769 268962.

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Malling April 2016 9 News downsmail.co.uk Cricket club aims for top 999 chief quits A MANAGEMENT structure while running a 1st XI able to reg- aimed to make The Mote the best ularly challenge for the Kent cricket club in Kent was pre- League premier title”. sented to the annual meeting. The Mote, with four Saturday over delays The club now have seven man- teams, as well as Sunday and agement groups: cricket (led by midweek sides, plus an expand- club captain Alex Fordham); ing colts section, are looking for THE head of the South East’s am- The calls affected were in the sec- ground (Howard Waters working promotion from division one to bulance service has quit after rev- ond most serious category – Cate- with new groundsman Chris the premier division of the Kent elations that services were gory A Red 2 – which covers Dale); finance and strategy (new League after missing out at the intentionally delayed. conditions such as strokes or fits treasurer Paul Heynes); develop- final game last season. Chairman Tony Thorne’s resig- but which are less critical than ment (Dennis Fowle); community Chairman Glen Aukett said the nation comes shortly after the chief where people are non-responsive. engagement and membership £4m development plan, to in- executive Paul Sutton went on One national newspaper claimed (Laurence Waters); house (John clude a large new pavilion, was “mutually agreed” leave of absence the practice was responsible for at Fuggle); and social and fund rais- on hold while the club negotiated from his post. least 11 deaths – something refuted ing (Nick Aldridge). with Maidstone Rugby Club over The South East Coast Ambulance by SECAmb. An independent re- The aim is to offer “enjoyable playing space. Rugby’s current Service (SECAmb) NHS Founda- view says there were fundamental cricket for all, providing a thriv- lease expires on May 31. tion Trust was investigated after it failings in the pilot scheme. ing membership, with the best Anyone interested in playing admitted delaying sending help for Katherine Murphy, chief execu- playing and pavilion facilities, for the club can call 07725 418305. certain 111 calls during a pilot proj- tive of the Patient Association, said: ect, transferring them instead to “Any decision that downgrades ur- 999, which earned them a low pri- gent category ambulance calls to ority and gave the ambulances an massage performance targets is de- Cash for maternity services extra 10 minutes to respond. plorable.” MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge The training will also allow The health regulator Monitor SERVICE users are asked to set Wells NHS Trust (MTW) has been healthcare staff to have confidence said the trust had not fully consid- out their experiences of the service awarded £16,000 as part of a drive to support women in their choice ered patient safety. Mr Sutton said ahead of an inspection by the Care to make the NHS one of the safest of where to give birth to their baby the trust had wanted to make sure Quality Commission on May 3. places in the world to have a baby. – whether at home, in hospital, or the most ill patients were re- Inspectors will be visiting emer- The money will be spent on sim- in a birthing centre. sponded to promptly. However, he gency operations centres and inter- ulation equipment to train mid- Applications for funding, from a did acknowledge that it had not viewing ambulance staff, as well as wives, doctors and ambulance pot of more than £2 million, were acted in the right way. talking to other organisations with staff in a range of labour and birth considered by the Department of Under NHS rules, calls desig- whom the trust collaborates. scenarios to ensure they are confi- Health and representatives from nated as life-threatening are sup- To give your views, go to dent and skilled in dealing with the Royal College of Midwives posed to receive an ambulance www.cqc.org.uk/syesecoastamb or all situations they might en- and the Royal College of Obstetri- response within eight minutes. email [email protected]. counter. cians and Gynaecologists.

   

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Malling April 2016 11 News downsmail.co.uk MP welcomes plan for longer trains THE decision to extend the number of Saturdays from May 1, which should He said: “All too often as the service carriages on trains serving the Maid- help alleviate the problem of over- approaches London Victoria many stone East line on Saturdays has been crowding until Bromley South. commuters are standing. Further- welcomed by Malling MP Tom Tu- Mr Tugendhat said “This will be a more, it is not uncommon for passen- gendhat. welcome relief to those using the serv- gers to have an intolerable commute However, Mr Tugendhat is continu- ice at weekends. I have been consis- home – with many standing to Brom- ing to urge the rail minister Claire tent in my calls for a better service for ley South and sometimes beyond.” Perry to increase the size of trains on those using , Borough Saturday services currently offer the commuter line during the week. Green and stations.” four or six carriages, which will be in- This latest decision will see the num- The MP said the line still did not creased to eight. The MP would like to ber of carriages increased from four to offer commuters a good enough serv- see 12 carriages serving the line dur- eight on the Southeastern service on ice to and from London. ing the week. Driving ban A DRIVER from has Market plan for town been banned from the road for more than a year after being A MONTHLY farmers’ market is to would have required planning con- ning application will be submitted stopped with more than twice the be introduced to Maidstone’s Ju- sent, as did a proposed Christmas for this. legal amount of alcohol in his bilee Square as part of a drive to in- market. As it can take up to 90 days to get body. crease footfall in the town centre. Previous attempts to hold a farm- street trading consents, the council Spencer Garland (38), from Dis- The monthly market – on the ers’ market at Lockmeadow and out- hopes the markets will start in June. covery Drive, was stopped in his fourth Friday of the month – will be side County Hall have failed but About 80% of the stalls would sell Mini Countryman on February 9 organised by Maidstone council in officers believe the square would be food, while the remainder would be on the Maidstone Road, at Pem- conjunction with the Kent Farmers’ much more successful, as it is cen- given over to crafts. bury, where he gave a breath test Market Association and Produced in trally located. There was some disagreement be- of 76mg of alcohol in 100ml of Kent – and will coincide with pay Research has shown that between tween members of the town’s her- breath. The legal limit is 35mg. day for many town centre workers. 3,000 and 4,000 people per hour pass itage, culture and leisure committee He was banned from driving for Since the creation of Jubilee Square through Jubilee Square on a Friday, as to whether the square should be 18 months on March 21 at West in 2012, there has been no set policy which should prove profitable for hired out by political or religious Kent Magistrates’ Court after for its use. stallholders and for the council. groups and the council is to look pleading guilty to drink driving. A similar suggestion failed to get Officers believe up to 32 stalls again at what kind of events will be He must also pay a £400 fine, £85 off the ground last year because it would fit on the square and a plan- permitted to take place. costs and a £40 victim surcharge.

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Malling April 2016 15 News downsmail.co.uk Mela takes to town’s streets

MAIDSTONE’S culturally-diverse Mela is going on the move. Ofsted praise The Mela, which takes place in A PRE-SCHOOL in Ditton has September each year, will be mov- been praised for its outstanding ing from Mote Park to the town cen- performance. tre, with a new format which is An across-the-board outstanding designed to reach out to wider au- rating for Ditton Church Pre- diences. School follows its good rating at its The Mela was introduced in 2002 last Ofsted inspection. to build a better understanding be- The inspector praised the inspi- tween local communities and cele- rational role the manager set for brate the diversity of Maidstone’s staff and the exceptional quality of residents. teaching at Ditton Church Centre, Featuring music, dance and food adding: “All children make rapid from around the globe, the Sunday GDF Productions performing at the Maidstone Mela last year progress from their starting points afternoon event quickly became a the festival. He said: “In view of the changed considerably. This is a and are extremely well-prepared successful, well-respected and cul- changing communities and the good opportunity to update and re- for the next stage in learning, with turally diverse celebration. competing demands on us as a local energise this great event, to reach staff highly effective in building on But with the town’s changing authority, it is time to consider what new audiences and to bring to- children’s interests.” population – and the need to make the Mela represents and what for- gether more people to enjoy music, It concluded that the excellent re- the Mela financially self-sustaining mat it should take. dance and food from within our lationship between staff and par- – organisers now plan to take the “Research will help to clarify this multi-cultural community.” ents helped meet children’s needs. festival to the masses. and investigate how it can be The first Maidstone Street Mela funded to make it sustainable.” will be a celebration of culturally di- The council will be consulting verse arts, with street performances with the local communities who Roadshow family talk and interactive arts workshops. have been engaged through the DAVID Sandon, son of Henry and brother of John of BBC One’s An- It will take place at venues around Maidstone Mela Advisory Group tiques Roadshow fame, will talk at St John the Baptist Church, Wa- the town centre on Saturday, Sep- and aims to meet those communi- teringbury at 7.30pm on Saturday, April 23. tember 10. ties that never have been or are no While Henry and John appear in front of the cameras, David and Cllr Gordon Newton, chairman of longer engaged and ask them for the rest of the family are all interested in antiques and often attend Maidstone Council’s heritage, cul- their input. filming days. He will be relating some of the more memorable and ture and leisure committee, said Cllr Newton said: “Since 2002, the humorous moments. Tickets are £6 for adults, £4 concessions from moving the Mela would re-energise town and its population have Sheena Stewart on 01732 873737, and Post Office. Mickey’s Café Diner

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16 Malling April 2016 Frank’s Dining Restaurant & Mussel Bar Out Steak Every Night! Now the clocks have changed and the evenings are lighter we all start to think about getting out and enjoying the lighter Spring PROBABLY THE BEST ON evenings. YOUR DOORSTEP If you are looking for a superb meal, sailing barge brought back from the ! in West Malling then south of France, it has quickly look no further than the newly become one of Maidstone's refurbished Frank’s Restaurant prominent landmarks. & Mussel Bar, with exposed Situated on the River Medway beamed ceilings and a large open behind the grand architecture of fireplace that accentuate the Maidstone's Archbishops Palace, restaurant’s cosy feel. where the turn-of-the-century street A willing band of friendly, lighting creates a warm glow to the attentive and knowledgeable staff quayside and water. This members are on hand to explain experience is carried through as you EVERY NIGHT IS MUSSEL NIGHT! Frank’s undoubted specialism: enter into the restaurant’s internal Monday − Mussel Specials mussels, with 25 different recipes areas with warm lighting and art- covering everything from Thai deco style design and decor. Tuesday Mussel Night The restaurant offers its guests a through to Italian, Indian and Wednesday Mussel Night European. Whether you want your relaxed dining experience onboard a unique floating restaurant with mussles marinated in something Thursday − Mussel Specials friendly staff serving exciting locally mild or with a kick – Belgium Congo sourced food, all priced favourably Friday Mussel Night comes with plenty of chilli – all compared to the high-street chain tastes are catered for. restaurants. • Belgia n Beers • Embankments restaurant is the only Embankments also offers a range permanently moored floating of relaxed entertainment evenings 53-55 High Street, West Malling ME19 6QH restaurant in the whole of Kent and when guests can enjoy live jazz, is a design that stands out from the swing and a range of alternative T: 01732 843247 whole of south-east England. music as part of their dining Converted from a six-berth motor experience in the main dining room. www.franksrestaurantandmusselbar.com

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Malling April 2016 17 News downsmail.co.uk Repairs conman jailed for 4 years

A BOGUS builder who preyed on Road, and Dryland Road in Snod- vulnerable homeowners by pro- land, and in The Broadway, Minis- viding unnecessary and over- ter. Mead, of Sundridge Road, priced building work has been Cuxton, conned a total of £67,500 Clean-up with a Royal cause sentenced to more than four years from his victims, many of whom in prison. had to use their savings to cover VOLUNTEERS set to work in Larkfield to help the village look spick and Moses Mead (31) costs for the unnecessary work he span for the Clean for the Queen campaign. cold-called resi- convinced them they needed. The 50-strong squad of litter pickers – calling themselves the Love dents in Snodland When his customers became sus- Where You Live Larkfield Angels – collected 36 bags of rubbish including and Minster on the picious, they contacted Kent Police children’s toys, clothing and broken tools in the national initiative to Isle of Sheppey of- and he was arrested. He was jailed mark Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. fering to block- for four and a half years after ad- They were joined by Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch and her baby pave driveways. mitting seven counts of fraud, two Freddie, and the Mayor and Mayoress of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr However, a pattern quickly breaches of a serious crime pre- Owen Baldock and his wife, Christine. emerged where Mead would begin vention order and one count of ve- The clean-up project is being led by Tonbridge and Malling Council work on the driveways only to hicle insurance fraud. with events throughout the borough. On Thursday, April 21, there will be supposedly find problems with Detective Inspector Mat Scott a litter pick at East Peckham from 9.30am before a tree planting wall cavities and drains which said: “Mead preyed on the vulner- ceremony at 10.30am at the Jubilee Hall, Pippin Road. meant further, more expensive able and targeted retired home- work was required, Canterbury owners. His victims should have Crown Court heard. been spending their savings on en- But the additional “repairs” were joying their retirement but instead Restaurant offers cash for kit never needed and in some in- they were panicked by Mead into SPORTS clubs and teams will find out if they have won £1,000 of new kit stances, Mead had taken bottles of spending money on their homes to celebrate the first anniversary of ASK in Maidstone. Applicants have been water into the properties to pour for work that didn’t need doing. busy rallying their fans for a public vote to find the winner. down walls and on carpets to give “The evidence found by our offi- Entry forms were available at the restaurant in Earl Street, which wanted the impression urgent repair work cers meant Mead had no alterna- applications from junior and youth sports clubs and teams (up to U16). The was needed. tive but to admit his guilt and public will be able to vote for their favourite from a shortlist of three, via the Between August and December hopefully today’s sentence will ASK Italian Facebook page or through a token system at the restaurant. 2015, Mead targeted seven proper- help provide some closure to his Voting will close on Sunday, April 24. ties in Gassons Road, Godden victims.” The winner will be announced at the restaurant on Wednesday, April 27. Dementia Day Care Age Concern Rotary House West Malling Living with dementia or know someone who is? Feeling alone and need support? LET US HELP! Now open five days per week Monday - Friday 9:30 – 14:30

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Malling April 2016 19 downsmail.co.uk News Woodland run RUNNERS of all ages and sizes are being invited to take part in a Town flying the flag spring woodland run in Ditton. The beginners to runners group - B2R – has organised a 5K and 10K run at 10.30am on Sunday, May 22. to celebrate St George Runners will meet at Ditton Community Centre in Kiln Barn MAIDSTONE will be embla- Courtiers, a five-piece Indie folk Road, from where they will be zoned with red and white band from Rochester, who per- taken by shuttle bus to the wood- bunting when it flies the flag for form from 2.20pm, followed by an- land, which has a picnic area. St George on April 23. other Medway folk band, Larkspur The multi-terrain race over an Patriotic performances will be at 3.30pm. undulating course will start and taking place throughout the town The oldest building in Maid- finishing at a clearing in the woods centre, to celebrate the patron stone, the Royal Albion in Havock and families are welcome to take saint’s day, with St George and the Lane (off St Faith’s Street), will part, watch or support. Dragon playing a prime part in host The Legendary Skynflynt Big There will be a medal for every proceedings. Band at 2pm on an outdoor stage. finisher and a free woodland run Yarn bombers are already busy The pub is also putting together a T-shirt for every entrant. knitting their fiery dragons to in- special pie and mash menu. The cost of entry, which can be stall in Jubilee Square. Re-enactment battles are also on paid online until May 15, is £25 for Morris men, clog dancers, tradi- The Honk Project the cards. adults (18+), children 10-17 (£20) tional music and innovative folk For younger children, there will and under-10s free. rock will be among the entertain- George in 303 AD. be magic shows at 2.15pm and ment provided in the town, cele- One Maidstone events organiser 3.15pm at D'Lishious in Market brating everything that is English. Zoe Sparkle said: “Last year’s Buildings, and Maidstone Mu- Charity quiz The event is being run by One event was a great success and this seum is running a children’s craft A CHARITY quiz night in aid of Hi Maidstone, a new Community In- year’s celebration is shaping up to workshop where they can make Kent is being held at the United terest Company that has been cre- be even better. What a great excuse their very own dragon to take Reformed Church in Maidstone’s ated by joining the Town Team to fly the flag for England and cel- home. Face painting will be free Week Street. and Town Centre Management, ebrate its finest traditions.” for under 12s in Jubilee Square and The quiz is on Friday, May 13, with the support of Maidstone The programme gets underway Fremlin Walk. meeting at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Council. at noon, with the popular Maid- Street theatre is provided by The cost is £8 per person and in- Although Saint George’s Day is stone band Fate the Juggler in Ju- Theatretrain and the Hazlitt Youth cludes a ploughman’s supper. not an official national holiday, it bilee Square, followed by the Sally Theatre and the eccentric Honk Teams will be of up to six people. is celebrated by various Christian Ironmonger Trio. Project’s dancing day trippers – For more information contact churches and is the traditionally Back by popular demand from mad moped enthusiasts with [email protected]. accepted date of the death of Saint last year are the Black Lion music – will be at Fremlin Walk.

20 Malling April 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Lions’ cash for THE 28 DAY SPRING SALE support service

A BEREAVEMENT support serv- ing. Our volunteers provide first- ice in Maidstone, which was fac- line telephone and email support ing closure after KCC pulled the and face-to-face counselling that is Loft plug on its funding, has found a well-known across the county for Combination backer in Maidstone Lions. its contribution to bereavement unit in Grade A was £2039 SALE £14 The Cruse Centre in Marsham care. The Lions’ group has helped 55 Street, where trained councillors us in the past and we are ex- Nova offer free and confidential support tremely grateful for their support.” Table & 6 chairs 99 to hundreds of people every year, Peter Hooper, Maidstone Lions was £2265 SALE £17 urposes only was due to run out of money in welfare chairman, said: “I had the image for illustrative p April, after losing £5,000 in fund- privilege of seeing the dedication ing from the county council. of these volunteers when I was But Maidstone Lions has said mayor of Maidstone in 2004-5, so I the service must continue and has had no hesitation in recommend- offered £5,575 to keep it going ing to the Lions that we support while it looks for long-term fund- this worthwhile cause.” ing. Alison said: “This grant will en- Cruse’s Alison Blair said: “We able us to keep going while we were disappointed when we were look to secure permanent funding told that we were to lose our fund- from April 2017.” Cosenza Lar ge Sofa T3 Fabric w as £1725 SALE £1295

Roz Yates, Bill Murray, Claire Ryan and oncologist Dr Russell Burcombe Clinic tribute to cancer patient A NEW clinic providing acupuncture for people with breast cancer Hypnos Stratus has been officially opened at Kent Oncology Centre. 150cm Divan Set 519 The Susan Murray Ear Acupuncture Clinic has been set up with was £2239 SALE £1 extra support from the Murray family from Headcorn. Susan Murray, a Headboard optional former patient at the Kent Oncology Centre, at Maidstone Hospi- tal, died in June 2015, and her husband Bill and children were keen to do something positive in her memory. With the help of Macmillan nurse clinician Claire Ryan and acute oncology nurse Roz Yates the clinic was set up, primarily for people living with secondary breast cancer. It was opened by Mr Murray and saw its first patients in March. The complementary therapy aims to promote relaxation, en- courage well-being and assist in the management of menopausal symptoms – a common symptom of breast cancer treatment. Energy deal to save money SALE NOW ON RESIDENTS could save money with their best offer at an energy on energy bills in the next round of auction on May 17 and those regis- Plus Energy Deal, launched by Ton- tered will be sent a personalised bridge and Malling Council. offer showing the winning tariff. 0% Up to 2 years* Those who signed up to the last The scheme is open to house- round of the scheme were offered holds who pay monthly, quarterly an average saving of £280 per year or via a pre-payment meter. Resi- on their gas and electricity bills. dents are not obliged to switch The deadline for registering for supplier. For details or to register the latest round is Monday, May go to www.energydealswitch.com 16. Energy suppliers will compete or call 01732 876395. www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk Singers’ summer concerts Sandling Road, Maidstone ME14 2RF THE programme chosen by the Maidstone Singers for their summer con- certs this year embraces major sacred works by two of Britain’s leading liv- 01622 753073 ing composers: Bob Chilcott's Requiem and Sir Karl Jenkins’ Stabat Mater. The concerts will take place at All Saints’ Church, Maidstone at 7.30pm UPHOLSTERY | DINING | BEDS | BEDROOM | ACCESSORIES on Sunday, June 19 and St Mary’s Church, West Malling at 7.30pm on Sat- *Cash price £2000, deposit £500. 12 monthly payments of £125. Total payable £2000. urday, June 25. Soloists are Stephanie Crooks, Diane Seargeant and David Subject to status, quotation available on request. Credit provided by an external finance company Clarke. Tickets: £12 for adults, free for U18s. determined by Clarkes. Subject to acceptance.

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22 Malling April 2016 Local news for Snodland and Halling A Downs Mail supplement produced in conjunction Town Talk with the Snodland Chamber of Commerce. Blue Badge plea for cemetery

A PETITION has been organised to tion for Blue Badge holders to gain 8am-9pm April 1 to September 30. ask Snodland Town Council to access to the cemetery." Disabled parking is available in allow Blue Badge holders unlim- Karen Sowten, the council's chief the cemetery in an area at the back ited access to the town cemetery. executive officer, said there had of the chapel. Vehicles should not Town councillor Paul Hickmott been growing concerns about the be driven around the perimeter said the council banned all vehi- number of vehicles using the road. Access is by RADAR key. cles last year when it provided a cemetery. Trolleys have been provided for car park for visitors. The action was Damage to graves and kerb- visitors who need to carry heavy taken because of damage caused stones was very distressing to rel- items; there is a wheelchair for vis- to kerb stones and headstones by atives of the deceased. itors with walking difficulties. careless drivers. She said: "The unwelcome in- Benches are available at regular Mr Hickmott (right) said: “I be- crease in cars using the pathway points and staff are available to as- came aware that there should be around the cemetery creates a loss sist during office hours. exceptions when a resident with of dignity and serenity. Karen said: "This decision has cancer and not very mobile was "There have been occasions been a matter for discussion at a going to be excluded from his Paul said that since then he had when visitors have been unaware number of council meetings and neighbour's funeral at the ceme- been asked by several residents if they are intruding on a funeral has not been taken lightly. The tery. something could be done to allow service when driving beside a council has also received compli- “This person was allowed to fol- Blue Badge holders access. graveside with mourners attend- ments from visitors who are hap- low the funeral procession after I He added: “The petition is circu- ing." pier with the new system as it asked for dispensation to allow lating and will be presented to the The car park is open from 8am- makes for a safer and more peace- him to attend.” town council asking for an exemp- 4pm, October 1 to March 31 and ful environment." Celebration for Club meets to twin towns offer support SNODLAND Twinning Association THE first meeting of Open Door is celebrating the 30th anniversary proved to be a huge success. The of its relationship with Moyeuvre- club meets between 10am and Grande, in north east France. noon on the first Monday of the Veronica Tipp, secretary of the month at Christ Church Hall, association, said the towns were Malling Road, Snodland. twinned in October 1986. An an- Alison Tompsett of Roberts Road, nual visit takes place between Snodland explained: "Open Door is them with each country visiting on an outreach programme to provide alternate years. space for people to come for a chat She said: "Joining us this year Pupils’ book week adventure over refreshments. will be six students from Holmes- "Where necessary we direct peo- dale and the head of languages at CHILDREN at the Church of school story. Their work was England Primary School, Snod- made into a film which was ple to where they might find the the school. They will spend a day help they are looking for, such as a at a school in Moyeuvre and land celebrated Book Week with shared with them at the end of the theme of movies and adven- the week." food bank, local clubs and serv- hopefully make links with students ices. We are looking to tap into there. ture. Other activities included learn- The children were asked to de- ing and performing a poem, writ- local groups and resources, such "The people of Moyeuvre are as Citizens’ Advice, Pilsdon etc so very welcoming and friendly. Any- sign and build dens where they ing poems, planning and could have a quiet space to read animating stories. that we can direct people in the one interested in joining the twin- best way possible. ning association and meeting for enjoyment. They were invited "The children also got to dress back after school to read, tell up as their favourite character "It is a church-run project for the some of them can contact me on community." 01634 240598." and share stories in their dens. from an adventure story," Mrs Teacher Ashley Bentley ex- Bentley added. “We also raised Alison said the aim is to get peo- The Snodland Partnership has ple together, support those who are given £500 towards the cost of the plained: "Pupils planned, wrote more than £800 towards new and acted out a part of the books for the children." lonely and help sort out other is- pupils’ trip. sues.

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Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Property firm opening boosts hospice CWB, the new property sales, lettings and Warren, who lives with his wife Annita and management company in Holborough Road, their children in Snodland, said: "We have Snodland raised £254 for the Heart of Kent worked on different projects and have always Hospice at its opening. prided ourselves on doing a good job. But we Warren Bowman and Craig Walker have found the service from estate agents was worked together for seven years buying and awful and decided to set up on our own. Our refurbishing properties. bank manager introduced us to Geoff Robins They vowed to be a different type of estate and we struck up a deal to buy the Motor- agency, promising to serve the community as house premises." well as giving top customer service. Craig, a former golf professional, is married Together with manager Tim Coates they to Nicola and lives with their two sons in Orp- marked the opening of the company with a ington. balloon race and raffle, with prizes donated by They are looking at sponsoring one of the local shops including A 'n' D, Bow Hair and A large crowd turned out and the gusty Snodland Nomads football teams and will be Beauty, Doremada florists, Alexanders and weather saw 250 balloons released. The fur- supporting the Cloisters Bike Ride, organised Dazzle Dolly, with Morning Rush providing a thest was reported to have reached Romette by Tom Falconer of Claremont Corvette, free buffet. in southern France, 700 miles away. Malling Road, in May. Murder mystery Young boxers gain confidence at show A MURDER mystery evening, Lot- MEMBERS of Snodland Amateur Boxing Club have tery for murder, at Snodland taken part in an exhibition show to give them confi- Community Centre on May 7 is dence and competition experience. the next performance of Snodland Nine juniors and three seniors were involved in the and Valley Community Players. show at Snodland Community Centre which in- A ploughman's supper will be cluded boxers from eight other clubs. served after the 20-minute play, "More than 200 people attended and the boys will with time to consider the evi- not be so nervous when they take part in competi- dence. There will be a question tions," said Dave Phillips, the club's secretary and and answer session with the ac- coach. "There was a great atmosphere and we saw tors followed by a hot drink and some really good boxing. cake before the accusations and Dave was one of the founders of the club in 1983 tre are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7pm-8pm for the final solution. and he thanked coaches, Dean Ianson and Mark under 16s and 8-9pm for over 16s. There will be 10 teams of up to West for their work in putting on the show. Dave can be contact for information on 01634 eight people in each team and Training nights at the club at the community cen- 865779. tickets are £8 per person.

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Email: [email protected] www.maidstonetreeservices.co.uk Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Help needed SNODLAND Town Football Club Meeting calls for help to need an assistant groundsman willing to work just two to three hours per week. Terry Reeves currently main- pay for vital church work tains the club football pitch at Po- tyns Sports Ground, but he needs ABOUT 100 people attended the some assistance. The job involves "Let's keep our Local Treasure" cutting, airing or dragging the meeting in All Saints’ Church, grass, rolling the pitch or marking Snodland. the pitch lines. Help is needed on a Saturday The Rector, the Rev Hugh Broad- morning but if that is not conven- bent, said: “Without your help this ient, any afternoon or evening dur- church could be forced to close, ing the week would be but with it we can make it an asset considered. Call Terry on 01634 to the community." 240076 or email tr.allballs@talk- He said the most obvious ques- talk.net. tion was why repair All Saints’ said. "The fact that English Heritage needs £34,300 to be raised by De- Church? Why not make do with has bothered to place it on their 'at cember 2016. Stages three and Christ Church in Malling Road? risk' register of historic buildings four, between 2018 and 2020, Allotments He said the larger All Saints’ and the Heritage Lottery Fund has would need £35,000. PEOPLE who want to grow their could seat 250 adults compared to offered a grant towards its repair, The estimated total cost to save own flowers or vegetables can the 150 Christ Church seats. This testifies to its national significance. All Saints’ is £500,000. apply to Snodland Town Council was important for a major funeral, "Rather than close it we believe Architect Paul Sharrock said the for an allotment. the annual Service of Remem- we should develop it and take most urgent work was on the tower Vacant plots are available on brance and Thanksgiving, school steps to make it more accessible and replacement of mouldings both Sloughfields (by the recre- services, Deanery confirmations and effective as a public space." over windows and doors. ation ground) and Birling Lands and events such as Christingle. Church warden John Levett out- Treasurer Sheila Miles said the (Catts Alley). People find the atmosphere of an lined the work that has been car- parochial church council was re- They are available to residents ancient building with its river views ried out on the church since 2000 sponsible for the finances of both and non-residents and vary in conducive to quiet prayer and re- and what it has cost. Heating, re- churches and the church hall and size. Anybody interested can con- flection and thirdly, All Saints’ is a plastering and masonry etc had the money came from collections tact the town council office on historically important building, cost about £100,000; repairs to the and fees from weddings and funer- 01634 240228. mentioned in the Domesday Book, vestry £42,000; repairs to the roof als. A deposit of £10 is required for a situated where the Pilgrims Way and a window due to vandalism "We cannot pay for major works key and after a three-month pro- crosses the River Medway. about £11,000; roofing and surveys to the building," she added. bation period, a modest annual "A church has stood on the site about £8,000. Sheila urged people to join the fee is payable. for over 1,000 years," Mr Broadbent Work on the first two stages Friends of All Saints’. FREE FITTING ON SELECTED CARPETS 100’s of carpet Weekly FREE payment rolls to clear MEASURING scheme from £10 each SERVICE available

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www.carpetnextday.co.uk MON - SAT 9.00-5.30pm New store Now Open Landlords Developers Maidstone Tonbridge Gillingham Letting Agents Tovil Hill 5 Tannery Road Beechings Way Trade Discounts Maidstone Tonbridge Gillingham (Opposite Call for details ME15 6QS TN9 1RF ME8 6PF McDonalds) Find 01622 677787 01732 362332 01634 366444 us on Town Talk Local news for Snodland and Halling Eva, 101, records her lifetime of memories A FORMER Snodland resident who blacking out the windows at night. Snodland as steward and stew- is 101 years old wants to share the "There were big guns at , ardess at Snodland Working Mens memories of her life with readers of just across the river from us, and Club in Holborough Road. Town Talk. they were very noisy when there The club was on the opposite King George V was on the throne was an air raid on," she wrote. "We side of the road to the present when Eva May Keeley was born on had food rationed and it was a job building, which was then the Co- August 7, 1914, at the outbreak of to make it go round sometimes. op. Eva remembers there was a li- WWI, the youngest of 10 children. "We had lots of raids – very fright- brary in front of the building where Eva, who now lives at Nevill ening. A the ladies were allowed, as they Court, West Malling, said: "I met my bomb could not go in the club. Izzy groomed husband, Gilbert, at a dance in our dropped The men would go into the club village, Halling. I was about 15 very close and buy the ladies a drink which for show fame years old and I went with my sister, to us on they would take to them in the li- A 10-YEAR-OLD Snodland girl Hilda, who was five years older the gas brary. and her pet have won a major than me and who met her future works. Our "We had lots of regular cus- prize at Crufts dog show. husband, Jack, at the same time. windows tomers and a lot of the men played Izzy King of Charles Close and "In time we both married; Hilda werebowls at the local bowling club," Lola, her Tibetan Terrier, qualified had two girls, Jean and Hazel. We blown out Eva continued. "It opened six days for Crufts as young groomer of the had a son, Brian, and 21 years after and we a week at first and later we had to year in November at Discover we had a daughter, Gillian. werework seven days. Dogs, run by the Kennel Club. "We had a house in Snodland sleeping in "When our daughter was five She had to complete a full near the station opposite the the Morri- years old we moved to East groom in front of the judges. Al- church [Church Terrace]. We had son shelter in our living room. Malling." though she has been going to lovely neighbours and we were There was another bomb near at Eva says she is very happy at shows since she was six it was her very happy and friendly." Malling Road. A little girl lost her Nevill Place. She is looked after by first grooming competition. Eva lived in Snodland during the life. I'm not sure if anyone else was carers and has visits from her Her mother Lucy has seven war with Brian. Gilbert joined the killed." daughter, nieces and nephews. dogs and has been showing for RAF and was away for three years. After the war the family moved to She closed her story with the many years. Izzy has a Chihuahua She remembers the barrage bal- a club in Gravesend where Gilbert words: "I am now 101 years old. which is due to have puppies loons, which were a defence and Eva were steward and stew- No more stories to tell. It is Easter soon. against low-flying aircraft and ardess. They later moved back to 2016. From Eva." Unisex Hair Salon

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A SNODLAND woman has lost three stone in Christ Church University in January and now weight so she can take part in a sky dive in works for Happy Feet Day Nursery at The July to raise funds for Cancer Research. Holmesdale School, Malling Road, Snodland. Kassie Hawkett of Church Field has teamed Sponsorship forms are being held at Snod- up with window cleaner, Bubbles, (Graham land Working Mens Club, Holborough Road. Ballard) of Kent Road, Halling, who was fea- Bubbles (62) has also done a parachute tured in Town Talk last year when he raised jump for Kent Air Ambulance and raised over £1,300 for Macmillan Cancer Support. £1,150. He has sponsorship forms at the club, Kassie said: "I have always wanted to do a Home & Hobby in Malling Road, Andrew's parachute jump and when my mum, Alison, Fish Bar and A 'n' D Bargain Food Store in the was diagnosed with cancer, I was determined High Street. to do it. Fortunately she is now in the clear, but He is also being supported by his cus- I had to lose three stone, which I have done tomers in , Sittingbourne, since last August." Snodland and Halling. He and Kassie are pic- Kassie (22) graduated from Canterbury tured right. Football club Friends pay tribute to war hero Bill tournament FRIENDS and colleagues at- Council, a Freemason attached to SNODLAND Town Football Club tended a tribute to a well-known the Paddlesworth Lodge and, dur- are hosting their fifth annual tour- Snodland resident at the Freema- ing retirement, worked as an odd- nament at Potyns Sports Ground sons Arms public house, Ham Hill. job man at the Freemasons pub. over the weekend of June 18 and Bill Dyer, of Gorham Close, died During the war he served on es- 19. in January 2015, and the tribute corts on Atlantic Convoys and was It has been growing in popular- took place on what would have involved in the Normandy Land- ity annually and last year it was a been his 91st birthday. ings. huge success, with 148 teams He did not have any direct fam- His medals now belong to from the South East taking part. ily and his executor, Bob Barnes of Thomas Marshall (23), who has Dave Jeal, the club’s chief exec- Brook Lane, said: "I had to dis- bury and I decided to give them to served in the Army for five years utive officer, said the tournament pose of Bill's possessions. He was a serving member of the armed and is based in Paderbourne, Ger- was open to age groups from very proud of his medals from forces." many with the Princess of Wales’ Under 6 to Under 18 and a veter- Naval service in World War II, and He is pictured with the medals. Royal Regiment. His father Ian, ans section, but there will not be rather than leave them lying in a Bill worked at Kimberly-Clark, who lives at Freelands Road, a men's event this year. drawer somewhere, Bob Kings- was a member of Snodland Parish Snodland, was a friend of Bill's. Under 7s, 8s and 9s will be seven-a-side, Under 10s and 11s will be nine-a-side and Under 12s and under 13s will be 11-a-side. Under 14s through to Under 18s Anne made Honorary Alderman and veterans will be seven-a-side. ANNE Moloney, who served on "It involved fund-raising, organ- Dave added that, depending on Tonbridge and Malling Council ising events and people, spotting the number of entries, Under 7s and is a member of Snodland likely talent, soothing ruffled feath- to Under 11s and vets would play Town Council, has been nomi- ers, preparing election materials on June 18, with the remaining nated as an Honorary Alderman and trying to win elections. It was games on the following day. of the borough council. a massively varied job and kept For details call him on 07799 She represented Snodland me on my toes for 30 years." 118222, send an email to West from 2007, serving on a Despite her years on the coun- [email protected], or contact number of committees, and stood cils, Anne’s overwhelming interest Jason Cook on 07429 167491, down last year on health grounds. has always been helping resi- email jasonwilliam@virgin- She has been a member of the dents to resolve their concerns. media.com. town council for a number of Anne lives in Sharnal Lane, years, was previously chairman Snodland. She is chairman of the Group folds and is currently vice-chairman. Australia for seven years before Snodland Partnership and is in- deciding to move back to the UK THE Snodland Community Group Anne qualified as a teacher and volved in many activities in the to be closer to her parents. which held Coffee and Chat meet- started work in the suburbs of town. "I found I didn't really fit in with ings at the working mens club in Sydney, Australia. She said that As an Honorary Alderman she at the time there were too many UK education methods and found can attend meetings of the bor- Holborough Road, has folded after teachers in the UK and not myself starting to work as a Con- ough council, but cannot partici- less than a year in existence. enough vacancies. She worked in servative Party agent," she said. pate or vote. It replaced the Beat Project which ran for four years but had to close through lack of funding. Wayne Mallard, chairman of the Zumba class helps school raise £350 group, said: "At first things seemed to be going well. However, STAFF and pupils at Snodland we are lucky to have so many other Church of England Primary School activities in Snodland, especially at spent two days taking part in a the community centre, and the Zumbathon and raised £350 for numbers attending started falling. Sport Relief. "I am sad the group ended but I Year 3 teaching assistant Sophie am pleased we gave it a go." Bishopp told Town Talk that the The community group donated children went to school dressed in its £195 funds to the Christ Church colourful sweatbands, tutus and Hall Fundraising Appeal. headbands. taking part and having lots of fun school.” Alison Tompsett said she was "They had a brilliant time taking with huge smiles on their faces. She added that it was a huge suc- very sad the community team had part in Zumba," she said. 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Malling April 2016 23 downsmail.co.uk News New delay in Lauren murder trial THE mother of a West Malling teacher who was brutally murdered in Qatar flew back to Britain furious at yet another delay in the retrial of the man convicted of her killing. Alison Patterson, from Ley- thousands of pounds since Lau- urday afternoon the call I'll never bourne Chase, had flown to Doha ren’s death on flights and legal fees forget came through, it’s every for the hearing, which was due to and launched an online appeal for mother’s worse nightmare as they commence on March 27, only to be £30,000 to continue her campaign told me a body had been found but told it would not now go ahead be- for justice. they weren't sure if it was Lauren fore May. She was overwhelmed by the as she had been put into a pit in the In March 2014, Badr Hashin public support she received, with desert and burned beyond recogni- Khamis Abdallah-al-Jabr was con- almost all the money raised within tion. victed of killing 24-year-old Lauren a month and donations coming in "I travelled to Qatar the next Patterson six months previously. from as far away as Australia and morning and for the next four The burned remains of Lauren’s New Zealand. weeks I stayed in Doha trying des- body were found in a pit in the re- She said: “I am absolutely over- perately to get my daughter's body mote part of the Doha desert, with whelmed by everyone's generosity flown home. a knife still lodged in her rib cage. Alison and Lauren Patterson and cannot thank you all enough. "Not only was my daughter mur- Al-Jabr claimed Lauren’s death incriminating evidence. “Thank you everyone from the dered in a foreign country, but I was an accident, but he was found Qatar’s court of appeal agreed to bottom of my heart. You have given was unable to identify her because guilty of her murder and sentenced a retrial of al-Jabr after throwing me the extra strength I needed with what was left weighed only 7.5kg. to death. A second man, Mo- out his conviction, but Mrs Patter- all your wonderful messages of "Her feet were the only part of hammed Abdallah Hassan Abdul son arrived in the Gulf state to dis- support.” her body left intact as they had Aziz, was sentenced to three years cover the defendant’s counsel Lauren disappeared after a night been over the edge of the fire pit in prison for helping the killer to hadn’t turned up. out with friends in October 2013. and her red nail polish that she dispose of Lauren’s body and other Mrs Patterson has spent tens of Mrs Patterson said: "On the Sat- loved was still visible." Warning of Luxury spa opens at leisure centre burglaries A LUXURY spa has opened at POLICE are warning businesses to Larkfield Leisure Centre after a be on their guard after a string of £360,000 refurbishment. commercial burglaries in the The makeover involved stripping Malling area. the old spa area back to its shell Officers received seven reports of and redesigning the space to business premises being targeted in provide a wider range of facilities. Aylesford, West Malling, Trot- These include a sauna with a tiscliffe, Shipbourne and the capacity for 10 people, steam Wrotham area on Monday, April 4. room with seating for eight and a Properties targeted included a spa bath that can also garage on the London Road at accommodate eight people. Aylesford where tools were taken. There is also an ice feature to cool down after using the sauna or Cllr Maria Heslop cuts the ribbon with Alan Nichol, chairman of the trust, Batteries and tools were also taken and borough councillors from a premises in Mills Road, steam room, new showers and Aylesford, which is believed to mobility equipment. council’s cabinet member for Leisure trust chairman Alan have been targeted between 11am Tonbridge and Malling Council community services, said the spa Nichol said: “Our mental health is on April 1 and 8.30am on April 4. invested £300,000 in the provided “an inviting oasis of calm as important as our physical A padlock and doors were dam- redevelopment with a further for visitors”. health and the new spa allows us aged at an outbuilding on the Lon- £60,000 from Tonbridge and She added: “It will no doubt to cater for both, offering holistic don Road at West Malling and half Malling Leisure Trust. become the place to de-stress and health and wellbeing for local a drum of diesel was stolen in an- Cllr Maria Heslop, the borough relax after a busy day.” people.” other raid on the London Road, this time at Wrotham. Police are urging business own- Former MEP facing jail Oven blaze ers to report any suspicious activ- FIRE crews were called to a blaze in ity, identify vulnerable areas, check A FORMER MEP from Snodland sands of pounds for support staff the kitchen of a house near Mere- their CCTV and alarms are work- has been warned he faces going to over a five-year period which actu- worth after an oven caught fire. ing and remove high-value goods prison after making false expenses ally funded hotel stays, restaurants Two fire engines went to from windows and vehicles. claims amounting to nearly and jewellery. Lysander Road, on the Airfield Es- Anyone with information is £500,000. Skinner, who stood down in 2014, tate, off the A228 at about 5.45pm. asked to call police on 101. Peter Skinner was found guilty of one count of Firefighters wore breathing ap- (56), from Recre- making a false instrument, one paratus and used a high-pressure Plant stall ation Avenue – a count of fraud and one count of false fan to clear the smoke from the MEMBERS of St Peter’s and St Labour MEP for accounting between 2004 and 2009. two-storey building. No one was Paul's Church Aylesford, will be the South East He was cleared of one count of injured. running a plant stall on Saturday, from 1999 to 2014 making a false instrument in relation June 4 in the car park of the – was found to a form submitted to the European guilty of improp- Parliament in 2006. Plant sale Brassey Centre, Aylesford, from AN annual plant sale takes place at 10am until noon. Lots of bedding erly using his Skinner, who will be sentenced on Parliamentary Friday, April 29, claims he was con- St John the Baptist Church, Water- and vegetable plants will be on ingbury, from 10am to 4pm on Sat- offer. Assistance Allowance to pay his ex- fused over the rules and blamed a wife, father and fund holidays after lack of information given to him by urday, May 28. For more local news a trial at Southwark Crown Court. the European Parliament, in spite of Flowers, shrubs and plants will www.downsmail.co.uk Jurors heard he claimed thou- having been an MEP for 20 years. be available, with proceeds helping to raise money for the church.

24 Malling April 2016 News downsmail.co.uk Fatal crash A DRIVER who died at the wheel of his burning van following an hor- Teenager Ben leading rific crash on the M20 has still to be formally identified. The man was trapped in his Fiat Ducato following the accident on way for young talent the London-bound carriageway near Larkfield, which closed the motorway in both directions. BRITAIN’S next Richard Branson zine’s Superteen Power List. Police say the man was of Eastern is busy building up his empire He has also shot up the Richtopia European descent, which had re- from an office at Maidstone’s Busi- British Entrepreneurs Top 100, to be quired officers to work with foreign ness Terrace. placed at number 34, along with ty- authorities to find his identity. The The Virgin mogul has described coons Richard Branson and Lord man was thought to be in his 50s. Ben Towers as “one of the UK’s most Alan Sugar. The white DAF truck involved in exciting young entrepreneurs”. He has more than 63,000 followers the accident was on the hard shoul- Ben, who is still only 17, set up his on Twitter and regularly appears on der to carry out roadworks. first business at the age of 11, de- television. Anyone who saw the accident or signing websites from home. Ben still lives at home with his par- the vehicles prior to the accident at He is now an award-winning en- ents in Gillingham, but is hoping to 10.03pm on Thursday, January 28 trepreneur, with three companies buy a house in Maidstone. should call the witness appeal line and a six-figure turnover. Entrepreneur Ben Towers He is busy campaigning for busi- on 01622 798538. As most of Ben’s early work was ness bank accounts to be made avail- carried out online, nobody had any sign agency, Towers Design, em- able for youngsters under the age of Join our club idea of his age and he was offered ploys 15 people and has more than 18 and trying to influence the pay- SNODLAND Women’s Club is his first public speaking engagement 700 customers. ment gateways and merchant ac- about to celebrate its first successful – at ExCel in front of 3,000 people – He is also behind the social media counts, which also restrict the ability year and would like to welcome aged only 15. management company Social Mar- of U18s to be in business. more members. Today, he is an ambassador for ley and is working on a third com- He said: “I want to be sure that if Part of the National Association of Young Start-Up Talent (YST) awards pany, NGBT, a social media there are budding young entrepre- Women’s Clubs, it meets at Snod- and for the National Entrepreneur- management platform. neurs out there that they aren’t held land Community Centre, Pad- ship Challenge, a scheme set up to He was tempted to the county back by their age. dlesworth Road, from 7.30-9.30pm teach and inspire enterprise in town by the attractive office rents “I hope I can provide valuable on Tuesdays. Members enjoy taking young people in schools. available at the Business Terrace, support, things which I wished I had part in new skills and crafts, nights He also works alongside the Fed- which is in the Maidstone Gateway, known when I was starting out.” out and meeting new friends. eration of Small Businesses to inspire King Street.  For more about Ben read our Call Sally on 07824 553305 or go young people. In December, Ben was named feaure in Mid Kent Living maga- along on a Tuesday evening. Ben’s digital media and web de- number one on The Times Maga- zine at www.downsmail.co.uk. HH && CC MotorsMotors Ltd.Ltd.

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Malling April 2016 25 News downsmail.co.uk Kims’ £15m loss in first year MAIDSTONE’S newest private hospital, the Kent Institute of Medicine and Surgery, made a £15m loss in its first year of operation. Delays in signing up to the NHS 2015. sultant surgeons fully transferring fident that the company has suffi- “Choose and Book” service (now Measures implemented to pull across to Kims being lower than ex- cient appropriate funding.” known as eReferral) and the failure Kims back from the brink included pected, with a consequent impact Kims took two years to build and of consultant surgeons to fully the issue of new share capital, on revenue,” it adds. cost more than £100m. It boasts commit to the ground-breaking which raised £7.8m and the con- During the year, more than 1,600 some of the best hi-tech equipment new hospital, off M20 Junction 7 version of £33.7m of loans into eq- private and 1,200 NHS patients and consultants in the country and near Weavering, meant income was uity share capital. were treated at Kims, but only 12% has since carried out a number of lower than anticipated, forcing the Founding directors Steven Bern- of the beds and 20% of the operat- ground-breaking procedures, in- board to restructure and re-finance. stein, Franz Dickmann and his son ing theatre capacity were used. cluding open heart and keyhole Accounts for the hospital, which James Dickmann all resigned while Since registering with the eRefer- heart surgery. opened in April 2014, reveal that al- Peter Goddard was appointed ex- ral service, which went live on Sep- Speaking in October last year, Mr though Kims had a turnover of ecutive chairman, Simon Rust fi- tember 1, there has been a James said: “I have never seen a £8.76m in its first year, it ended the nance director and Simon James significant increase in the number healthcare company make money year with a shortfall of £15.22m. chief executive. of active consultants at the hospital in its first year. It’s a business that Existing lenders put an addi- Their end-of-year report reveals and the first CQC inspection, car- has to be resource-led, as you have tional £2m into the project, while a the original business plan was for ried out in September last year, was to recruit staff before you can take four-year “rent holiday” was the hospital to generate high value, extremely positive. in patients.” granted under the property lease to high complexity patient procedures Chief executive Simon James He believes the hospital can help ease cash flows. but the initial take-up was lower concludes: “The company has had break even in its third year – still Directors realised the hospital than anticipated. a challenging year in performance. sooner than the accepted norm of was facing difficulties in November This was partly due to the hospi- This led to the need for significant five to seven years for a private hos- 2014 and brought in a new man- tal missing the deadline to tender additional funding and highlighted pital. agement team to run the hospital. for NHS work and instead having the need for a more appropriate He said: “It will be hard work, On its advice, the board was to rely on sporadic referrals. sustainable capital structure. but it is achievable. We have had forced to restructure or face run- “Uncertainty of NHS work “With the restructuring in De- great support from the consultants, ning out of funds by December streams led to the number of con- cember 2015, the directors are con- which is really good.” Devil rides Volunteers plea to boost profile of river VOLUNTEERS are needed to help The Environment Agency has of- into town turn the Maidstone stretch of the fered to clean up the section of the By Dennis Fowle Medway into a tourist attraction. river between Teston and Allington The Maidstone River Park was one Lock and the group is now looking EASTWICK was not ready for of a lasting legacy of projects, for community support for a five- the raunchy antics of the funded partly by the National Lot- day clean-up along the banks be- Devil and three witches. Was tery to celebrate the Millennium tween Lockmeadow and Whatman Maidstone? Answers will vary and comprises a 10km walk along Park. widely. the river, from Teston Country Park The River Park Project has already Maidstone Amateur Oper- to Allington. been allocated £1m from Maid- atic Society, with a proud tra- The idea of raising the profile of stone Council to create a cycle path dition of bringing popular the river Medway in Maidstone and Chairman Ian Tucker said: “Our the length of the river, linking Barm- musicals and light opera to the activities centred around it was ing and Allington, which will include the town, bravely staged the aim is to make the river an attrac- a key part of the council’s destina- tion in its own right and an impor- a cycle hub at Lockmeadow. 2000 American show, The tion management plan (DMP). The Medway Valley Countryside Witches of Eastwick, which tant part of the visitor experience in Now, a group of individuals has Partnership, which is dedicated to tells of the impact of the ram- Maidstone.” taken up the reins and set up a trust, environmental conservation in pant Devil arriving in a small Volunteers from the trust will work but they need more practical help. Maidstone and Malling, will also town and especially on three closely with the Environment The Maidstone River Park Trust is play a part in the project. attractive but frustrated Agency, Kent County Council, Maid- a volunteer community group, but Anyone who would like to get in- ladies. Their antics and lan- stone Council and others to main- the trustees hope to establish a volved can contact the group via the guage left little to the imagi- tain and promote “the borough’s community interest company to website or email info@maidstoner- nation. greatest natural asset”, according to support its activities longer term. iverpark.co.uk. It gave a large cast a chance Mr Tucker. to enjoy a very lively show and the dance and choral scenes were colourful high- School’s wartime life recorded Tax phone scam lights. The lasting memory, though, is confident perform- THE former head of Maidstone Girls’ Grammar TONBRIDGE and Malling Council ances and voices of the three is looking for memories from former pupils for a is warning residents to be wary of witches (Lili Westlake, book she is writing about the school during the unsolicited emails urging them to Kathryn Norman and war. set up a direct debit to pay their Christina Whitehead) and the Mary Smith (right) has been asked by the council tax online. power of Ben Smyth as a very school to compile the book, using wartime illus- The warning comes after a resi- unlikeable Devil. trations painted by former art teacher Miss Keen. dent said they had had an email The mix of contrived Amer- Mrs Smith said: “If you think you may be able from someone claiming to work for ican accents and some strident to help, even if your knowledge of the time seems the borough council. The fraudster music did not always make insignificant to you, please get in touch.” asked the resident to click on a link listening and understanding Email [email protected], marking your subject to pay their council tax online. easy. for the attention of Mary Smith. Sharon Shelton, the council’s di- The society is promising us rector of finance and transforma- Sweet Charity on April 3-8, tion, said: “Our officers never email 2017. For more local news www.downsmail.co.uk or telephone residents to ask them to confirm their bank details.”

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Malling April 2016 27 downsmail.co.uk Parking charges Show garden for village A GARDEN designed for the Chelsea Flower Show will be transferred to the Royal British Legion Village, Aylesford, after the event in May. The Chelsea Barracks Garden, designed by Jo Thompson, is being do- nated to Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) to form the centrepiece of bale ‘not over’ its new housing development off FURIOUS campaigners have vowed tional revenue, but thought there Hermitage Lane, to continue their battle against con- wereotherwaysofmanagingpark- which will pro- troversial parking charges in West ing. vide homes for Malling, despite a council vote in In the short consultation period wounded, in- favour of the scheme. since Christmas, the parish had put jured and sick There were angry scenes when forward a list of 10 changes which veterans. banner-waving residents and traders could help to increase efficiency and Real estate packed the public gallery in a bid to income from parking in West company Qatari persuade Tonbridge and Malling Malling. Diar, sponsors of Council’s cabinet to drop a plan to The borough council said after the garden, will axe free parking in the car park be- carefully considering all the informa- also support two hind Tesco in the High Street. tion presented, its scheme remained ex-service personnel living in the RBL village who are interested in pursu- The protests failed to sway mem- the best means of supporting local ing a career in horticulture, to undertake training and gain formal quali- bers from giving unanimous ap- traders by securing a turnover of fications, enabling them to maintain the garden at its new site. proval for parking fees of 30p for half spaces for shoppers while offsetting Jo, one of the UK’s leading garden designers, said it would be a tradi- an hour and 60p per hour, which will the costs of managing the car park. tional British rose garden, reimagined for the 21st century. “I very much be operated as soon as possible. Council leader Nick Heslop said hope it will provide ex-service personnel with a beautiful place to enjoy However, councillors did cancel a there had been a long-standing his- and a tranquil setting to reflect, as well as offering residents the chance proposed charge of £5 for longer tory of problems at the car park to get involved with a range of activities to aid their recovery.” stays, setting three hours as the max- which needed to be resolved, and imum staying time. there was no evidence that the charge A massive campaign in the town would spell the death-knell for busi- against the charges resulted in a peti- nesses. Revised extension refused tion presented by the parish council However, Julia Smith, of Andrew A PLAN to enlarge a four-bed- storey extension was out of propor- with more than 3,000 signatures, and Smith Jewellers, said small firms who room house at Ryarsh has failed to tion with the original house and its a second petition signed by nearly have to pay high rent would be find favour with planning officers. size was harmful to the Green Belt. every trader in the town. hugely affected, with customers al- Katy Nunn’s application to extend Planning officer Paul Batchelor The parish council asked for the ready saying that in future they Fishpond Cottage in Chapel Street to said the revised design was an im- matter to be suspended for six would shop at Kings Hill where there a six-bedroom property was refused provement but again recommended months to allow more time to explore is free parking. by Tonbridge and Malling council- refusal, saying that it would still be alternatives. Parish Cllr Richard Selkirk pledged lors in December last year, with the inappropriate development. Chairman Trudy Dean said the that the battle was not over and cam- recommendation that officers negoti- Councillors were due to consider parish council understood the bor- paigners would continue to fight ate an improved standard of design. the issue after Downs Mail went to ough’s need to find savings or addi- “tooth and nail against the charges”. It was felt that the proposed two- press.

rm reports Crime A VW was broken into on a driveway in Hallsfield Road, Aylesford and the integral sat nav and audio system was stolen. Neighbourhood Watch Number plates were removed from a vehicle outside the owner’s property in Blacklands, Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police East Malling. Property including car keys were stolen from a property in Catkin Close, Aylesford. The ve- Lane, Offham. in Amisse Drive, Snodland. hicle was taken but later recovered. Three wooden gates were stolen from a farm A bicycle was stolen from the rear of a hotel A sat nav system was taken from a Renault in Church Road, Ryarsh. in Swan Street, West Malling. van in a quarry site in Rochester Road, Ayles- Sensor lights were damaged outside a prop- A vehicle was scratched in Lee Road, Snod- ford. erty in Ford Lane, Trottiscliffe. land. A vehicle was taken from Jasmine Road, East Tools were stolen from a shed at a home in A blue Ifor Williams horse box with a cream Malling. Alma Road, Aylesford. roof (serial number 50282**) was stolen from Books were taken from a property in Cork Something was thrown or fired at a VW van land next to a property in King Hill, West Street, Aylesford. in Seven Mile Lane, , causing dam- Malling. A parked vehicle had its bodywork and win- age. Two men were seen acting suspiciously when dow damaged in Catlyn Close, East Malling. A van was broken into in a lay-by in Drage a bag containing computer equipment was Fencing was damaged outside a property in Road, East Peckham and tools were stolen. stolen from a property in Townsend Road, Mackenders Lane, Aylesford. A shed was broken into at a home in Stevens Snodland. A vehicle was stolen from a car park in Salt- Road, Aylesford. Car keys were taken and used Windows were smashed in an outbuilding at ings Road, Snodland. to steal a white BMW 218D, registration a church in West Malling High Street. A Talon 5 bicycle was stolen from where it GH15***, from the driveway. A windscreen wiper was taken from a had been chained up in a shopping centre car The tyres were slashed on a vehicle in parked vehicle in Midsummer Road, Snod- park in Quarry Wood, Aylesford. Lysander Road, Mereworth. land. Games equipment was taken from a vehicle The garage of a home in Hawkes Road, in Scott Close, Ditton. Aylesford was entered but nothing was taken. A window was smashed at a home in The A vehicle was stolen from a driveway in Atlas Close, Kings Hill. Avenue, Aylesford. ALARM NOT WORKING? Six bricks were stolen from a garden at a Two wheelbarrows and a saw were among WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS home in New Hythe Lane, Larkfield. items taken from a container on a building site A bicycle was stolen from Snodland High in Bellingham Way, Ditton. CALL 01622 880751 Street. A Land Rover Freelander parked on a drive- Security lights were damaged outside a prop- way in The Hawthorns, Aylesford was broken erty in Norman Road, West Malling. into and items stolen. A bicycle was taken from a shed at a property ALARMS & SECURITY LTD A tractor was stolen from a field in Comp

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Malling April 2016 29 News downsmail.co.uk KCC facing division shake-up THE writing could be on the wall for Kent County Council if five local authorities press ahead with plans to join forces. Canterbury, Dover, Thanet, Ash- said: "I am working closely with erty assets. Secondly, along with up. County governance working ford and Shepway are considering the other two west Kent districts, fellow West Kent district councils, with other public sector partners combining to form a unitary au- the county council and others in- discussions are being held on the and boroughs and districts has the thority, delivering all their own cluding the police and health serv- development of a closer working ability to deliver transformation.” services without recourse to KCC. ices to seek opportunities for how relationship with the county coun- The county council currently It has also been revealed that we can deliver a more cost-effec- cil to improve the co-ordination of manages most of the education Maidstone is in talks with Medway tive way of delivering local serv- services to our communities.” function in Kent, but the govern- and Dartford and Gravesham ices so that we drive up standards, KCC leader Paul Carter believes ment has announced it wants all councils about how they can pro- minimise duplication and deliver the division of Kent would be dis- schools to become academies by vide more cost-effective solutions, best value. astrous for the county and a huge 2020 – free of local authority inter- while Tonbridge and Malling “The borough council is in dis- waste of time, during a period vention. council is speaking directly with cussion with the county council on when resources are already being It is just one part of the govern- KCC to avoid duplication of its a ‘district deal’, which would seek stretched. ment’s plans aimed at giving more functions. opportunities for more local serv- He said: “The great counties of power to local people. Council leader Nicolas Heslop ice delivery and better use of prop- this country should not be broken WI meeting Licence for AYLESFORD and Eccles WI will meet on Wednesday, April 27 at pet-siers 7.30pm in the Brassey Centre, Sta- NEW rules for people who provide tion Road, Aylesford when Sharon holiday and day care in their Lynn will give a talk about the homes for other people’s pets are work of health-detecting dogs. being introduced by Tonbridge and There will also be tea and cake Malling Council. and a chance to chat, also to find Traditional kennels for dogs and out about events and trips. cats must, by law, obtain an annual The competition will be for any licence costing £262 from the local item starting with the letter U and From left: Bluebird Care director Priyanka Pawar, Jade Bray and Cllr authority. However, the borough there will be a bring-and-buy stall. Derek Butler present the cheque to Janice Heale, centre council says a new style of board- New members and visitors wel- ing is becoming increasingly popu- come, call Eileen on 01622 715205. lar where animals are home Award for care worker boarded “in a domestic environ- Aylesara date ment” for a holiday period or for GLOWING compliments from clients Care manager Jade Bray said: “We the day. AYLESFORD Active Retirement have helped earn Mereworth resi- have a great team of care workers It is bringing in a new licence for Association (AylesARA) will meet dent Janice Heale the title of Blue- and are very proud of them all. We home boarding and dog day care in the village community centre at bird Care care worker of the year for very much appreciate the hard work establishments for an annual fee of 2pm on Thursday, April 28. Maidstone. and dedication they give their cus- £150 to cover administration and There will be a talk by Barbara Janice, who visits clients to help tomers. inspection costs. First time appli- Stevens on the Trials of a Public with personal and domestic care, has “The feedback we receive from our cants will also have to pay an addi- Speaker as well as a raffle and a worked for the company for two customers about Janice is always tional charge for a veterinary chance to find out about interest years, after a career in accounts. very positive. She forms a great rela- inspection. groups, day trips and social events. She was presented with a cheque tionship with her customers and it is The new licence is based on The group is for anyone over 50. for £200 by Deputy Mayor of Maid- our privilege to be able to recognise British Kennel and Cattery Associ- Call Wayne on 01622 710734. stone Cllr Derek Butler, at an after- her in this way.” ation guidelines. noon tea at the company’s offices in Bluebird Care (Maidstone) provide Organ recital Barham Court, Teston. services which enable people to lead Janice was nominated following a full, comfortable and independent Art on show ST Peter’s and St Paul’s Church, survey with customers where she re- lives in their own home. COBDOWN Art Club will be Aylesford will host an organ recital ceived many compliments. This includes care visits, live-in and holding an exhibition and sale of at 3pm on Sunday, April 24 by She said: “I am flattered to receive overnight care, help with washing members’ work at the Brassey Cen- David Poulter, director of music at this award. It makes me feel very and dressing and assistance with tre, Aylesford on Saturday and Liverpool Cathedral. This will be a proud to do what I do and really medication. They also provide sup- Sunday, May 14 and 15, from 11am chance to show off the refurbished shows how much the work I do is ap- port with domestic tasks such as to 5pm. 1865 Forster and Andrews organ. preciated.” cooking, washing and cleaning. Admission is 50p, and refresh- Tickets are available at £9 from ments will be available. the church office on 01622 719366 or Michael Keays, organist, on 07831 246810, or on the door. Karaoke singer jailed for violent aack A MAN who headbutted a bar- the pub and had been chatting to Police traced Lees back to his girl- Thief jailed maid, fracturing her cheekbone in a his 28-year-old victim when she friend’s house, where he was ar- KAYLEIGH Battams (22), of drunken attack, has been jailed for went outside for a rested the same night. In court, he Apple Close, Snodland was jailed five-and-a-half years. cigarette break. admitted causing grievous bodily for 40 days by Mid Kent Magis- Gregory Lees (34), formerly of As she was about to harm with intent. trates’ Court after she admitted Sherwood Avenue, Larkfield, car- go back inside, he Detective Constable Scott Ennals shoplifting and assaulting police. ried out the vicious assault at the headbutted and said: “This unprovoked attack left On January 2, she stole wine and Earls public house in Earl Street, punched her before an innocent woman deeply trauma- cider worth £11.92 from a service Maidstone, on the evening of pushing her to the tised and with a fractured cheek- station in Malling Road, Snodland Wednesday, July 2, 2014. ground. He punched bone. Lees has shown remorse for and assaulted a police officer. She Maidstone Crown Court heard her several more times before leav- what he did but that will provide must also pay £11 compensation. Lees had been singing karaoke at ing. little comfort to his victim.”

30 Malling April 2016 downsmail.co.uk News Triathlon death ‘a tragic accident’ FIT young man Paul Gallihawk drowned taking part in Ocean Lake charity event, a Maidstone inquest heard. The 34-year-old was a keen sports- for 10 years and took daily medica- mer, the water was not cold enough man who regularly played football. tion to keep the condition at bay, the to cause hypothermia and he was He had taken part in a half marathon inquest heard. He also suffered from wearing a wet suit. and other running events. Crohn’s disease but this was un- Dr Rouse said: “Unfortunately, the He had been training for his first likely to have contributed to his post mortem only gives us possibili- triathlon at Lakes, on Au- death, said Dr Rouse. ties, rather than probabilities.” gust bank holiday weekend last year The inquest heard that there were Mr Gallihawk’s parents Malcolm and, although nervous, was looking seven kayakers watching the group and Linda, who attended the in- forward to taking part. of 108 swimmers, as well as a safety quest, were concerned at the amount Mr Gallihawk, who lived with his boat with a crew of two on board. of weed in the lake, but coroner Pa- partner Hayley Wright in Postmill One man was pulled from the tricia Harding assured them the Drive, Tovil, wanted to raise money water after getting into difficulties, weeds were well below the level of for King’s College Hospital, where but nobody saw Mr Gallihawk, who the swimmers, with six metres of his father Malcolm had been treated was swimming with the less-confi- clear water above. the previous year. dent contingent, disappear. Following the inquest, Mr Galli- Hayley raised the alarm when Mr Paul Gallihawk He had been suffering from dizzy hawk Snr, from Leeds, said he felt Gallihawk failed to emerge from the body was discovered by a dive team spells and, a few weeks before the questions remained unanswered. water at the end of the 750-metre brought in from Norfolk. triathlon, consultant neurologist Dr “It’s not the outcome we were swim in the Ocean Lake Triathlon Mr Gallihawk’s body was found Jonathan Chan found Mr Gallihawk hoping for,” he said. on August 29, 2015. seven metres deep in the lake, 87 may have suffered a vasovagal The coroner said she was unable A search of the lake with boats and metres from the start of the race. (fainting) episode and advised him to determine how exactly Mr Galli- scuba divers failed to find Mr Galli- Pathologist Dr David Rouse found to increase his salt and water intake, hawk had drowned but recorded a hawk, who worked for a sales re- the cause of death to be immersion. particularly while he was in training. verdict of accidental death. cruitment company. There were no marks or signs of in- Dr Rouse told the inquest: “If Mr She said: “The death of this young, The Kent Fire and Rescue Service jury on Mr Gallihawk’s body and Gallihawk had suffered a fainting fit man was a tragic accident. How- joined the search, along with volun- there was nothing to suggest he had episode, it would not be evident ever, I do not have concerns that any teers from Kent Search and Rescue, been injured or suffered a fit. from the post mortem examination.” further deaths may occur. It was a but it was not until 9.30am on Mon- Mr Gallihawk did suffer from Although Mr Gallihawk was not very great tragedy that he died the day, August 31, that Mr Gallihawk’s epilepsy, but had not had a seizure an experienced open water swim- way that he did.” Man stabbed Fear for health POLICE are investigating a stab- bing in Aylesford. centre’s future Officers were called to the fight in Pratling Street and launched an air CONCERNS are growing that a hunt after a man was found with new health centre may stand idle stab wounds to his arm and chest. on a 700-home estate in Leybourne The injured man, thought to be in because local GPs are too stretched his 20s, was taken to King’s College to take on more patients. Hospital in London, and has since Taylor Wimpey, which expects been discharged. the Leybourne Chase practice to be The National Police Air Service finished by August, says it has con- helicopter circled the area for some tacted 60 surgeries to see if any are time in an unsuccessful effort to willing to take up the tenancy, but find a man, believed to be in his has received just one inquiry. 30s, who had left the scene. The NHS West Clinical Commis- Police say a separate domestic in- sioning Group refused to be drawn cident was reported at the property on whether it will intervene if there involving one other person shortly are no takers as the population in before the reported assault and that Boxer’s pledge to Becs the area continues to grow. enquiries are ongoing. SNODLAND’s unbeaten looking to extend his winning run A spokesman said the developers welterweight boxer George to three in his debut at the York would need to make an approach Hennon has pledged a quarter of Hall boxing venue in Bethnal and an assessment would be Sports plan his next fight purse to a Green, east London, on April 29. needed before any decision could A MAJOR extension and refurbish- fundraising appeal for the family He said of Rebecca: “She just be made as to whether or not the ment has been proposed at Cob- of a friend who has cancer. keeps on fighting and looks so NHS could or would make use of down Sports and Social Club, Hennon (21) will donate the well, it’s like nothing phases her, the Hawley Drive health centre. Ditton, including more squash sizeable chunk of the winnings she’s that brave and she inspires Taylor Wimpey, which built the courts, a gym and dance room. from his third professional match me every day. So this cause is surgery as a condition of its plan- The scheme, which has been sub- to The Becs Factor, a fund which really close to my heart. I’ll give a ning permission, says it has been mitted to Tonbridge and Malling formed to enable Larkfield mum minimum of 25% of my purse trying for a year to find a tenant. Council, would include a changing Rebecca Watts to take her two and I’ll be looking to give more if A spokesman said: “Despite con- room block providing facilities for young children, Alfie and Mason, I can. I’ll also have her logo on my tacting more than 60 practices and four teams and officials, as well as to Euro Disney to make memories. shorts and T-shirts to promote the the NHS, we have yet to receive an toilets for spectators and a kitchen He said Rebecca (41) was the fundraiser. There’s a 49-seater appropriate level of interest.” space with serving hatch. aunt of his friend Shelby. coach taking my support from It has taken on a specialist prop- The plan for the Station Road “As I’ve been in and out of her Maidstone up to the York Hall for erty agent to market the healthcare complex also involves the provi- house since secondary school, I’ve my fight and my mum will take facility to NHS and private health- sion of two 3G pitches. always known Becs and she has collections on the day as well.” care providers across the area and come to support me in my fights.” To donate or find out more, visit says it expects interest to increase For more local news Hennon, of Malling Road, is www.becsfactor.org. as the facility nears completion and www.downsmail.co.uk as the development progresses.

Malling April 2016 31 downsmail.co.uk

choose who we let in we can stop We can only buy so much. There isn’t an Comment Retake control of borders importing other countries’ criminals, and inexhaustible supply of money, unless Dear Sir – After 70 years living here I am the money we save can be used to make you’re in government of course. appalled at how Maidstone has been forced Britain great again. Why not merge the park and ride in with to change over the past five years or so and I Australia and America don’t let in the store, to supply all the local shops? It’s too will be voting to exit the EU (Mail criminals, so why should we? We won’t something that more understanding Marks, March). have so many people using our NHS that councils seem to manage quite easily! Maidstone has become so overcrowded we pay into and they don’t, so thank you Phil Granger, Alma Road, West Malling and immigration is radically changing the for your article. culture of our town. It will get worse until John Maplesden, by email Britain gains full control of its borders. Lower Thames Crossing We are having huge residential Vote for Brexit developments imposed on us very much Dear Sir – I note that KCC prefers the against our will; road journeys now take so Dear Sir – I feel guilty my generation is Lower Thames Crossing Option C coupled much longer; our GPs and hospitals are creating through EU membership a with widening the A249 as a beer long- totally overstretched and delays for patients diminished Britain I will be ashamed to term option than using the A229. I agree are unacceptable; and too many parents leave to my children and grandchildren. with this suggestion but only if KCC have deep concerns about finding desired (Mail Marks, March). rectifies a long-standing deficiency in Kent places in schools. I am patriotic and have loved living in strategic highway routing. Brexit may bring early uncertainties but I Maidstone, Kent and England. I cannot bear KCC has been well aware for some time will live with these to expel the hand the EU to see what now happens through that the A249/M20 interchange is already at casts over our country. overcrowding and the financial crises I peak capacity at certain times of the day Robin Brand - by email consider are closely linked to our EU because traffic which needs to bypass membership, especially on welfare Maidstone to the East also uses this Hope article sways votes payments. junction, in addition to the main traffic I love Europe too, and believe we can Dear Sir – I was so pleased to read Dennis route of A249/M20. work well with our friendly neighbours Fowle’s article regarding the EU, and that KCC has, by default, utilised the without all the serious downsides of EU you plan to vote to leave. residential route of Bearsted Road, New membership. We have to give this a chance It is good that people who have not made Cut Road, Ashford Road, Willington Street and vote for Brexit. their minds up will read your view and it and Suon Road as a heavy goods route Mary Jameson, by email. could help them make their choice. I’m like instead of constructing a Leeds Langley you; I really want to leave the EU but I am bypass from the Suon road directly to sad when I see so many lies from people on M20 Junction 8. This already creates major the news, saying we need to vote to stay in. Jobs an illusion delays from M20 Junction 7 along this It’s the only chance we will get to vote Dear Sir – When yet another supermarket residential route to the industrial out, and it would be fantastic if we do get proposal comes up, I have to give a wry Parkwood area and the agricultural out. I’m so disappointed that David smile as the bid always includes “hundreds businesses serving south, south east and Cameron is trying to keep us in the EU; he of new jobs” (Downs Mail, February). east of Maidstone. This will only get worse is on the wrong side. With the proliferation of supermarkets because of the vast amount of housing I’m sure the Queen, if she could say, and Tesco even closing some down, it’s already under construction and planned would want out. We can close our borders, obvious that one person’s supermarket job, for the future in these areas. we will save so much money, we can is another person’s redundancy. S Russell, Matfield Crescent, Maidstone Contact our team ... Stephen Eighteen Diane Nicholls Jane Shotliff Dawn Kingsford Editor Assistant editor Journalist Journalist [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 01622 734735 ext 231 01622 734735 ext 232 01622 734735 ext 233 01622 734735 ext 233

Obituaries Sir Peter Maxwell Davies environment around his Orkney home. her father’s loyalty to local businesses including Rossco’s hairdressers in Snodland, SIR Peter Maxwell Davies was a patron of where he got his hair cut for many years Kent Music. Basil Bishop after helping the business find their shop. The Lancashire-born composer and BASIL Bishop (84), of St Faith’s Lane, Widower Basil leaves his daughter and conductor was a major figure in the UK Bearsted was an auctioneer who rose to granddaughters Eleanor and Sophie. classical music community; a personal become a senior partner at estate agents journey took him from being the composer Page and Wells. of difficult and challenging works to The business was Frank Woolle become the Master of the Queen’s Music. celebrating 20 years of RESIDENTS have lost a popular Police Despite living in the Orkney Isles from operations when Basil Community Support Officer. 1971, Sir Peter was a noted advocate of joined in 1949. His ability to Frank Woolle (64) lived in Medway but local music, and remained passionate manage the demands of an was known especially in Teston and about music education. He had been a operation which at the time Barming for his work in law enforcement patron of Kent Music since 2006. also dealt with local and building community support. Frank The association’s chief executive Peter produce soon made him a worked in the legal community and later Bolton described Sir Peter as “a great familiar face at local trained as a PCSO. supporter of music education for all” and markets. Barming ward councillor Fay Gooch said: noted “we will cherish his patronage and With a break for national service, Basil “Frank’s funeral was packed and many local his musical legacy”. served Page and Wells and contributed to people went. There was a massive turnout Sir Peter first came to prominence when their rise to become one of the largest from his police colleagues. forming the group New Music Manchester independent estate agents in the area. “He was held in high regard, and perfectly with composers Harrison Birtwistle, He was married for 45 years to Patricia, combined the community qualities of Alexander Goehr, Elgar Howarth and John and they had a daughter Belinda. engaging with people and the ability to Ogdon. He was a keen environmentalist. Tributes included praise from his former uphold the law. He will be much missed.” One of his best known compositions – colleagues who highlighted his decency and Frank leaves his wife, daughter and one Farewell to Stromness – celebrates the diligence. A message from Belinda described grandson.

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

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investigate whether permission had been which would place an unfair burden on the

aihCouncils Parish Addington obtained or was required for this work. parish council, was disappointing. Crime report A shed was broken into in Eccles recreation ground Two new picnic Heritage tree East Peckham School would The Street and items were taken. benches had been ordered for installation like to be involved in the tree planting on Defibrillators Brindle Installations would just outside the new fenced play area for April 21 at 10.30am to celebrate the continue to carry out a monthly check on residents with dogs to use while Queen’s 90th birthday. each of the defibrillators for £360 plus vat. supervising children on the equipment. Annual report In a move to becoming This would include cleaning windows and Another lier bin had also been ordered. more financially efficient and paperless this sweeping inside the phone box. would be the final year when the annual Seven Mile Lane Members felt the report would be printed and delivered to proposal to reduce the approach lanes Dion all households. In future, printed copies from the A20 to the roundabout to a single would be issued on request. lane would cause accidents as drivers Community day KCC Cllr Peter Homewood said he would be happy to Clean for the Queen Cllr Mrs Macdonald would get more frustrated queuing. had offered to organise an event and Mr Parish plan Members were disappointed support this annual event in June by providing funds for a jazz band again. Michael Hayes would like to help. that nobody had commented. Parish council app Features could include Royal birthday Members resolved to Parking Since parking on the double yellow lines had been highlighted in New business information, contacts, customer provide drinks and nibbles from the form, event listings, guestbook, coupons, community project budget from 8pm on Road and the corner of Woodlands Road, eight penalty notices had been issued. image gallery, points of interest, podcasts April 21 to celebrate the Queen’s 90th and a members’ page. The app would be birthday. The beacon would be lit at Youth centre The youth centre had held a successful quiz evening aended by 50 acquired for £199 (set-up fee) followed by 8.30pm and parishioners would be invited. monthly payments of £25 (secure hosting, Village hall The village hall commiee people and had raised £150. The internet cafe was to reopen along with the cooking support and training). would like the bole banks near the village Skate park A pop-up skate park would be hall to be moved to another area in the class for vulnerable adults. Two new leaders had come forward and it was installed at the Jubilee Hall playing fields village. While supportive of the recycling on May 14 for about four hours. It would initiative, the commiee did not like the hoped the youth club would reopen soon. Heritage centre Two members of Dion be externally funded and there would be grass being churned up by cars using the snack vans. If sufficient interest was bole banks and felt they were unsightly heritage centre gave a presentation, in character as Mr Tassell and Miss Saltwell. shown, fundraising would start for a for hirers of the hall to look at. The permanent one. The council was to put up commiee suggested they be relocated to They thanked the parish council for its support for the Victorian school during the to £300 for leaflets to publicise the event. the Plowenders layby or moved back to Allotments Progress was being made on their original position on the grass at the past 20 years and advised that the building now needed repointing at a cost of £5,000. site improvements. The base was being entrance to the village hall car park. prepared and would be followed by the Recreation ground pavilion The donated Despite many fundraising efforts, they still had much to find and asked if the parish installation of the shed and replacement of kitchen had been installed and the the gates at the playing field entrance. commiee was looking to upgrade toilets. council would increase its annual donation. Protecting trees Neil Moulton, tree warden CCTV The council’s mobile CCTV camera for Troiscliffe, had offered to help with had not been returned since its last Kings Hill drawing up a list of trees of special interest breakdown. At the time it was too and liaising with the borough council. expensive to be repaired and the council Resignation Cllr Tanner had resigned. She had requested its return. The clerk would was thanked for her contribution to the follow this up. parish council and her work. Aylesford Annual parish meeting A member of Boundary review There would be Dion Heritage Centre would be invited to objections to the transfer of area A2 as it Motorway bridge Fencing repairs and speak about the centre at the annual parish did not meet the statutory criteria but there rubbish clearance by Highways England at meeting on Monday, April 25. Other would be no objection to the transfer of the Hall Road bridge were awaited. groups would also be invited to contribute. area A1, which includes the sports park. Members wanted wooden rail fencing on Royal birthday The theme of the Sports park bar Two tenders had been both sides of the road to prevent the build- community day in June would be the received. Councillors would email up of lier. Queen’s 90th birthday. suggested changes to the long-term hire Greenacres Notification had gone up in the licence to the chief executive. An amended estate regarding proposed yellow lining. A copy of the licence would be sent to resident had asked why Elm Walk/The East Peckham councillors for agreement by email and Oaks had not been included. The clerk was £500 would be released to pay Gulland to advise this area be withdrawn from Poppy appeal Cllr M Barton would be taking on the role of village Poppy Appeal solicitors to review the licence. Tonbridge and Malling Council’s original Community warden The warden proposal after local resident objections. co-ordinator. Joan Boyle Upon receipt of the parish introduced herself. Towpath Work was due to commence on Church project The Diocese had now the River Medway towpath. The parish council’s leer of condolence and donation to the Salvation Army in Mrs Boyle’s commied to the tender and planning council had commied £20,000 to the stages of the church project. project. The borough council was unlikely memory, a message of appreciation had been received from the Boyle family. Parking charges It was agreed to object to to make a contribution. This could impact the parking charges idea in West Malling. on the details in the parish council area. Jubilee Hall On two occasions mud had Eccles car park The extent of the light been smeared on the external doors and pollution was being investigated, as well as the drainage grilles dislodged. Mereworth if all-night lighting was necessary and the Proposed surgery closure The parish costs of shielding around the lamps. council had drawn up the action plan Public forum The handset in the public Christmas lighting Eccles residents had which would keep the surgery open for six telephone box at The Street/A228 slip road requested a small number of motifs in the months while long-term solutions were was broken. This would be reported to BT. hub of the village, similar to to those in explored. Woodlands Health Centre had Police report There had been two incidents Aylesford. The cost of four motifs would confirmed that the proposal had been of criminal damage to a vehicle. be £1,200 to £1,800 for the lights, £984 for brought about by regulatory challenge and Land in Kent Street The licence holder had initial installation and about £500 per year had made it clear that it had no desire to already begun to clear the rubbish from the for puing up and taking down. The Eccles withdraw services to East Peckham land and tiles had been removed. Rental members would select the design of the patients. However, it was not in a position licence had been signed and payment for light. The clerk would contact the estates to contribute to the costs of the survey or first year received. Fencing of eastern side manager to see if providing a lit Christmas the renovations, and would be unable to of the land and repair of gaps in hedges tree in Royal British Legion Village would project manage the survey or the works was to be undertaken by a contractor. be welcomed. required. While the parish council was Valuations These had been received for Aylesford Sandpit A councillor queried pleased that the practice had no desire to land next to the garden of 134 Kent Street trees being cut back on the Aylesford close the surgery, the perceived lack of and for a garden rented by the householder Sandpit border. He asked if the clerk could support and involvement from the centre, at 132 Kent Street. Proposed sales values

40 Malling April 2016 Parish Councils 41 mail.co.uk downs April 2016 Malling The clerk would Strengthening of the The owner of Hazel Woods The revised quote from RSS Concerns had been raised by Members would like to be An informal meeting had Bookings for the village hall This is a listed unit and This would be presented at the Concerns were raised about The annual parish meeting will Objections were raised to an There were two potholes outside PCSO Kim Hockey said parking at There had been three reported Missing iron work from outside the The possibility of giving a to repair play equipment wasCall approved. for sites taken place between parish councillorsCroudace and Homes to discuss itsdevelopment plans land for adjacent to FieldsIt Lane. was felt that Croudacego had before a making long a way suitable to development. case Maers for of increased traffic congestion and pollution were among concerns raised. Drayhorse car park Deer shooting had not confirmed if permissiongiven had for been deer shooting. Parking the school was an ongoingvery problem limited but parking the and theparents reluctance to of use areas suchchurch as or outside recreation the ground, madeincreasingly things difficult. Corfe Cup annual meeting to Kurt Conroyreducing for crime within the parish. Crime crimes including aempted burglaries of two dwellings (forced entry toan a outbuilding) gate but and nothing wasstolen, reported and a cement mixeropen-sided taken farm from building. an Roads church was reported to SouthernPotholes Water. the pub on the village-greenroad. side of the General maintenance contact the handyperson regarding cleaning signs and traffic calmingAlso gates. an estimate would berepainting requested the for kissing gate. Planning certificate for Lile Barn, MereworthWest Road, Peckham. The parish council considered there had been aplanning breach for of a long time. Call for sites a members of the publicon regarding Forge the Lane field which wasby added the to previous the owner. list Itsold had and now the been new owner was currently was how it would remain. Footpaths overgrown footpaths. Meetings be on Wednesday, May 4 starting at 7pm. Wateringbury Playing fields surface was discussed. After researchsuitable of grade a of materials, anwas agreement made to proceed withCongestion the work. had been lost due toA lack limited of time parking ticketing spaces. systemoption, was but an the car parkMalling was Council’s Tonbridge responsibility. and Signal box changing it into some otherwould business be use ideal. Coins commemorative coin to mark the90th Queen’s birthday to each pupilschool of was the discussed. village application for a lawful development using it for crops. It was hoped that this with signs, particularly during theCall night. for sites consulted early about local sites. A tea party on the The church was having A stone was fired using Ian Fern, quarry owner, The clerk had submied a Tonbridge and Malling Two members of the public An engineer had drawn up Members discussed the The clerk had wrien to the The owner of The Plough was Potholes in Woodgate Road The parish council would provide The tree at Ryarsh Oast House which request to KCC for asupply permanent for power the Christmas treegreen on opposite the The village George. School Lane recreation ground on June 10 from 1.30pm permission for the use ofground the subject recreation to a riskBeacon assessment. a drink for people tocelebrations toast on the April Queen 21 at tobirthday. the mark The her beacon 90th would bePublic lit session at 8pm. discussed the problem of lorriesfor heading Wrotham Quarry arriving andnoise creating in Ford Lane from 5.30am. Concern and speed. He explained theextending next the stages quarry for and theof implications the proposed tunnel. He could be Troiscliffe Catapult incident a catapult from a car through the window the bridleway at the end of Green Lane, to 7pm was proposed. Members gave about lorry speeds was alsomember raised. of A the public wasthat disappointed the parish council wasreconsider not its going decision to to relocatewaste the bin dog in Pinefields Lane. Wrotham Quarry listened to concerns about lorries’ noise willing to help with communityTraffic projects. survey plans with optimal sighting for speed signs Christmas tree school asking for parents to be reminded to suggested that a competition couldinvolving be the run school. Queen’s birthday an event to celebrate. Thecould parish not council light a beaconnowhere as to there put was it onHighways high ground. were geing worse. Big lorriesWorkhouse were Lane using and breaking downverges. the They were using aentrance footpath on Gallagher land asplace. a There passing had been rocksthis there happening. to Cllr stop Storey wouldGallagher’s speak about to this. Trees had been pulled out offallen the back stream in had and was blocking the stream. of The George and hitone the was back injured. wall The but rear no car side by window Sharon of Coages a wastogether also with broken two windows inDog another waste car. bin Council had no objection towaste siting bin the near dog allotments inbut Green also Lane suggested it could be located on screened by a tree andhousing vegetation opposite. from Members the preferred this alternative but before making awould decision deliver a note toarea the to housing advise in that the abe dog placed waste on bin the would bridleway.the A current resident location felt of theLane bin was in convenient Pinefields for dogSchool walkers. diamond jubilee and repeaters at Taylors Lane/VigoKCC Hill. Cllr Sarah Hohler’s member’swould grant be used to fund the consultation. be respectful when parking in School Lane and not block the pavements. Taylors Lane ongoing problem of parking onpavements. the Plough Inn to be reminded to not block the pavement It The theme for the Extra grass cuing had The clerk had submied The clerk asked to install Councillors were saddened Cllr Storey had been Cllrs David Storey and Dave It was hoped a plan from The parish council would The parish council would offer A request for a bus shelter on This raised a net total of about Cllr Storey was waiting for a Details were given about the The pothole on Birling Road St Michael’s had been approved The new PCSO is Wendy Stanley. been requested for beer weather. lived in the village anddefibrillator who should said be the located outsidevillage the hall as that was where most activity regular maintenance work on Workhouse Recreation ground approached by a senior cardiac nurse who took place. It was agreed to locate it in the enhancement plan would be availablethe for annual parish meeting athall the on village Tuesday, April 26PCSO from 7.30pm. Church for a Heritage Loery FundVillage grant. hall to give money for thefunds village raised hall for using village projectsspeak and to would the commiee aboutMay this. Day event on Saturday, April 30. Quiz night £620 for village projects. In memoriam by the death of formerNelson. councillor A Paul donation in hisbe memory made would to the Brain Tumour Charity. Ryarsh Pothole opposite the school had been reported and Road had been requested. Bus shelter Peddie were meeting contractors toquotes obtain to replace the roundabout. Defibrillator Oam Speedwatch apply for funding from Cllrnew Hohler Speedwatch to equipment buy for theVillage village. plan Kent Highway Services for the village were agreed. The buyers wouldpay be legal asked costs to with aavoid covenant further added development. to Seven Mile Lane was agreed to support theoption recommended 3 going north andapproach the coming easterly south. a request for speed camerasCamera to Partnership. the Permission Safety to install wooden posts in the vergesparking to had prevent been refused byHighway Kent Services (KHS) because the yellow lines included the vergesshould and deter parking. On theKHS, suggestion the of clerk had askedMalling Tonbridge Council and to enforce parking restrictions. The borough was working with the police to increaseSigns regular would patrols. be put onWillow the Wents fencing. convex mirrors outside the propertyhad but received no response. Itthat was the agreed mirrors be installedAnnual on parish the meeting verge. meeting on April 26 wouldparty be to a celebrate royal the tea Queen’sbirthday. 90th The clerk would invitegroups village to give their reportscakes and would tea be and arranged. Lower Thames Crossing consultation London Road opposite the junctionRoughes with Road had been refused. Roundabout porch. Phone box quote to repaint the phonehow box. to Ideas use for it were needed and it was JOIN US Escape the everyday in our brand new spa

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