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

May 2017 No. 241

News Top Twenty Rural rail stations DOWNS Mail throws a party to celebrate 20 years in newspaper publishing in Maidstone  face cut in services and Malling. 3 Local Plan control RAIL services across the Weald could face the axe if a planned timetable A TOP borough councillor says the Local Plan gives Maidstone  shake-up gets the go ahead. control of its future. 5 Stations including Headcorn, Sta- plehurst, Marden, Pluckley and One-day truck ban Paddock Wood are most at risk from a government proposal. POLICE enforcd the ban on trucks It wants a new franchise to take through a village on just 12 up the rail service currently pro- one day. vided by Southeastern. And hidden among the consulta- Water hazard tion documents is a suggestion that a fast service between Ashford and YOUNGSTERS have been warned Tonbridge could be introduced. about swimming at the 18 This would mean the current weir in Yalding. service not calling at the Weald sta- tions as it prioritises a faster train to Turtle sanctuary London. The new plan would come A STAPLEHURST man is on a into force at the start of 2019, and mission to rescue trains would stop at these stations  abandoned terrapins. 22 every hour – it is currently every 30 minutes. A petition set up to get the gov- Protestors gather at Marden station, which is facing cuts to services Honour for Molly ernment to rethink collected more near the station. People come from ple who commute and many who A VILLAGER is recognised for her than 11,500 signatures. However, Boughton Monchelsea and Park- moved to the area because of the tireless work for the because of the General Election, the wood on the south side of Maid- train services and they are going to community. 29 closing date originally set for May stone because it is easier to access. feel very upset. 23 was moved to May 3. The con- “Marden and Pluckley are two of “The Department for Transport sultation is still open until May 23. the least-used stations on this list, simply hasn’t future-planned this. Comment 33 Started by Martin Chambers, the and we fear the government will There are houses being built all petition says of the cuts to the Weald simply close them. With the houses around the area, and people moving Obituaries 34 stations: “We believe this would be that are being built here, and the in to them will use trains. disastrous for the communities, businesses in Pattenden Lane, it will “Taking these trains away will Parish Councils from 36 towns and villages along this line be disastrous for the area.” only damage our community. and could potentially lead to the clo- Retired Mr Chambers, who used “It will change people’s lives. If Headcorn councillors heard that sure of the stations altogether.” to commute to London, told the they pay hard cash to come and laughing gas cylinders had been Hunton mum and parish council- Downs Mail: “The fast service will move here and then their service is tipped in the parish; a new PCSO lor Helen Ward is worried about the come in at the expense of others. taken away, that will be disastrous.” had been appointed in Coxheath; Marden station shutting. Pluckley is a village, but we want to  See the petition at https://peti- a possible site for a defibrillator She said: “Commuters use it and stay connected and in touch. tion.parliament.uk/petitions/194306 was being considered at East my children took the train to Ton- “If we are reduced to a Sunday  See the consultation at: Farleigh; fundraising events were bridge when they were at school. service or worse, with only one train https://www.gov.uk/government/co being planned for Nettlestead “If you go to the village after an hour at these stations, we are nsultations/future-of-south- Village Hall and the kitchen was 7.30am, you will struggle to park going to feel isolated. There are peo- eastern-rail-services. being renovated. Crime Reports 47 Ofsted praise A green lawnmower with a missing HARD work has paid off for hub cap was taken from a shed in two primary schools who are Boughton Monchelsea; a house in celebrating after being told they Chart Sutton was broken into and YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT continue to provide a good computer items were stolen; tele- [email protected] education in glowing  phone cables under a hatch in the 01622 690290 reports from Ofsted. 4 road were cut in Headcorn; some- 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent one slashed a car tyre in Coxheath.

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2 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk News MPs join guests to mark 20 years of Downs Mail THE Downs Mail hosted a party to celebrate 20 years of newspaper publishing in Maidstone and Malling with a gathering of Golfer thrilled friends and distinguished guests. In his address at the Museum of From left, Downs Kent Life, the newspaper's founder Mail chairman to find lost ring and former editor Dennis Fowle Claire Procter, WHEN Reinhard Stille returned to told guests: "I think the most excit- president and the golf clubhouse after a round at ing memory is the way the people founder Dennis The Ridge, East Sutton, he was hor- of Maidstone and Malling have Fowle and mayor rified to discover his wedding ring taken the Downs Mail to their of Maidstone Cllr was missing – and an immediate hearts." Derek Butler cut search of the course with his partner His daughter Claire Procter – proved fruitless. the Downs Mail now chairman of Mail Publications Imagine his amazement four Ltd – remembered the early days of birthday cake weeks later, as he played the same the business creating "wonderful backed our newest developments, nis Fowle and Claire Procter before par 3 hole, when he saw the ring and unique" newspapers that have including our daily Downs Mail guests enjoyed ferret racing in aid glistening in the grass close to a gone from strength to strength, initiative on line.” of Heart of Kent Hospice and an greenside bunker. with the creation of a fifth edition The Downs Mail, which is based owl display laid on by the Kent “What luck,” he said. “I had been in the popular Downs Mail series in in Bearsted, is now posted through Owl Academy. wearing that ring for about 45 years November. the doors of 85,000 homes across Other guests included Maidstone and my wife and I were ready to pay She said: “At a time when other Maidstone and Malling each MPs Helen Grant and Helen about £350 for a replacement.” newspapers are struggling to retain month, with more signing in to its Whately, Heart of Kent Hospice Reinhard, who is retired after run- their readership, it is wonderful to website and enjoying its quarterly, chief executive Sarah Pugh, council ning a display lighting business, have a loyal and growing audience colour lifestyle magazine, Mid Kent leader Fran Wilson, Bearsted parish lives with his wife Sue in Adbert that enjoys reading every issue Living. councillors and Liberal Democrat Drive, East Farleigh. He recalls driv- cover to cover. Maidstone mayor Cllr Derek But- Parliamentary candidates David ing his ball in to the bunker and tak- “We are also pleased to have the ler was among those to celebrate Naghi and Emily Fermor. Other or- ing off his glove to play the shot. “I continued support of our advertis- the publication’s 20th anniversary, ganisations represented included had no idea the ring came off at the ers who recognise this and have cutting a birthday cake with Den- the YMCA and Blackthorn Trust. same time.” Has your doubledouble gglazinglazing steamedsteamed up? St Helens Montessori School WeWe can SASAVEAVVE your windows!windows! East Farleigh SAVESAAVVE moneymoney,y,, enerenergyrggy & time Cloudy2Clear is a leading local glass rreplacementeplacement companycompany,, Pre School for children aged 2 to 5 established for over 10 years. By saving your window we can... SASAVEAVVE money,moneyy,, SASAVEAVVE energy,energyy,, SASAVEAVVE ttime.ime. Beautiful Rural Setting RReplaceeplace the papane,ne, not the frameframe The good news is you don’tdon’t need to go thrthroughough the expensive Open Morning processprocess of rreplacingeplacing the whole frame. YYoYouou can just rreplaceeplace the glass. Our quotes on average take no longer than 20 minutes. Saturday, 17th June 2017 YourYYoour local trustedtrusted expertexpert HingeHinge,, llockock & mechamechanismnism rrerepairsepairs 9.00 am to 1.00 pm

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 3 News downsmail.co.uk Village school’s Ofsted praise KINGSWOOD Primary School has been praised by Ofsted as a “peaceful and nurturing school” which continues to maintain a good quality of education. Executive headteacher Emma Hickling received a special acco- lade for her strong leadership. In its first short inspection carried out since it was judged to be good in May 2013, the school was said to have improved outcomes for pupils and ensured that those who need to catch up make good progress. Inspector Mark Cole, who visited in March, found that “almost all pupils behave well” and “lunch and break times are calm and pur- poseful”. Pupils take great pride in school and also had a clear and un- last inspection to reduce the num- enough disadvantaged pupils at- their work and their school envi- wavering commitment to the well- ber of unnecessary pupil absences tended regularly. ronment. being of staff and all pupils. Rates and leaders had done this. The at- In a letter to parents and carers, Writing to Miss Hickling, he said of fixed-term exclusions and inci- tendance level of all pupils had im- Ms Hickling and Mr Waters said that she and the head of school, dents of serious poor behaviour proved in 2016 and this had been the inspector clearly stated “That Darren Waters, had a very clear un- were declining. sustained and built on this year. we have worked on the areas of de- derstanding of what the Cayser Vulnerable pupils received a The amount of holidays taken dur- velopment from the previous in- Drive school did well and what wide range of effective support and ing term time had been reduced. spection and have continued to could be even better. staff knew pupils very well and Mr Cole said that recent initia- improve the provision for pupils. “You have identified that pupils worked closely with families and a tives had led more Gypsy, Roma “We would like to thank all the require even more opportunities to wide range of external agencies. and traveller pupils and children staff and pupils for their hard work develop their problem-solving and Safeguarding policies and practices who have special educational over the year and during the day of reasoning skills in mathematics”, were effective. needs and/or disabilities coming to the inspection and to thank you for he said. The school had been asked at its school regularly. However, not your support during the process.” Leaders had created an inclusive ‘Inspiring’ head pleased by report HEADTEACHER Paul Ryan was praised as an “inspirational and determined leader” in the latest Ofsted report on St Margaret’s CE School in Collier Street. The primary school was judged as Join hunt for good following the inspector’s visit Headteacher Paul in March. This was the first short Ryan with some inspection since it received a “good” of the pupils from water voles grade in July 2013. St Margaret’s VOLUNTEERS are needed to Inspector Seamus Murphy told Mr School in Collier help look for water voles in Ryan: “You work tirelessly to provide Kent following a rapid decline. the best education possible for the Street, which has Wildlife charity People’s pupils in your care. Children enjoy a maintained its Trust for Endangered Species is better start to their education and good Ofsted asking helpers to record all all pupils benefit from a creative and rating sightings and signs of the en- lively curriculum.” dangered creature. Parents had reported that the understanding of their strengths and A new library building, established The species has experienced school was “fantastic” and were foibles. Pupils relish school because with extensive fundraising, was used the most dramatic decline of positive about Mr Ryan’s leadership. they feel part of a community.” very well and more than a quarter of any wild mammal in the UK Children were doing well in the The Christian ethos was promoted the school attended reading club. over the last century. early years and younger pupils in the effectively and the curriculum was a Mr Ryan said: “The school is As part of a national pro- school really enjoyed reading. Older real strength of the school. delighted with the findings of our gramme, Kent residents are pupils made good progress, and The school had successfully latest inspection, especially the asked to survey a pre-selected were prepared well for their next addressed areas that required acknowledgement of the creative site and report findings back to stage of education. attention from the previous report and lively curriculum. We are also conservationists at the trust. Mr Murphy said; “Pupils thrive such as the quality of handwriting very pleased that it recognises our This will be the third year the because all staff have a thorough and a new maths curriculum. close community.” survey has been done. Water voles were once a common sight along river banks and wa- Caravan blaze holds up trains Quiz night cash terways, but numbers have de- COMMUTERS faced delays crews used a hose reel jet to tackle clined due to pollution, A QUIZ night has raised £1,265 for when trains were held while the the fire that also involved a cara- changing agricultural methods Headcorn Scouts. fire brigade dealt with a caravan van, which was destroyed in the and the impact of non-native The money raised at Egerton Vil- fire in Hampstead Lane, Yalding. blaze. American mink. lage Hall will be used to fund the It broke out around 5.30pm on The building suffered extensive To find out more or to take group’s four units, comprising April 5 in a derelict building and fire damage, but there were no re- part in the programme, visit Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explor- spread to the caravan. ported injuries and the cause of www.ptes.org/watervoles. ers, and will be followed by another Kent Fire and Rescue Service the blaze was unknown. quiz on Saturday, October 14.

4 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Plan ‘will put us back in control’ THE days of speculative building are coming to an end, with Maid- stone council’s Local Plan likely to be approved by the autumn That is the view of Maidstone Bor- ough Council’s head of strategic planning, sustainability and trans- portation, following a further two “opportunistic” plans which were thrown out by a government inspec- tor on appeal . “It will see Maidstone regain con- trol of its own planning destiny,” says Cllr David Burton (pictured). “We have seen a flurry of applica- tions taken to appeal while our Local Plan has been absent. Now we are moving into new terrain, with the dicated, and perhaps developers will plan gaining weight each day.” now be less confident in appealing.” He cited Gleeson Homes’ plan for It follows another steep learning 225 properties at Fant Farm, near curve for Maidstone Council, which Barming, which was refused by has faced applications for solar Maidstone council and fought by farms in the region, with what Cllr campaigners for three years before Burton describes as only “vague recently failing on appeal. guidance” from government. How- With the Local Plan in draft form ever, this has worked in the borough when he joined the council six years council’s favour, he believes. ago, he said: “I am hopeful we will A recent proposal for nearly 64,000 have a fully-adopted Local Plan later solar panels on arable land at Great this year, after years of work. Pagehurst Farm, in Staplehurst, was “We have got a plan that recog- also rejected on appeal, after having nises the need for development and been refused by the parish and bor- Relationship at how we intend to achieve that, ough councils. meaning opportunistic develop- He said: “The government is right ments can be refused unless they in- to encourage renewable energy as a breakingbrreeaking point? corporate opportunities that are sustainable way forward for society truly remarkable. It means that in general. Solar farms are not desig- The brreeakdown of anny rreelationship can be Maidstone will be back in control of nated and so they can be proposed its own planning destiny.” pretty much anywhere. very distrreessing. Maidstone and the Weald MP “However, the council has set a Whitehead Monckton family lawyers can help you Helen Grant added: “I hope Maid- high bar, creating its own case law stone Borough Council will take by insisting that these are in accept- through this stressful and painful time. heart that its refusals are being vin- able locations.” We offffer sensitive, construuctive and cost effffective Traffic congestion reviewed legal advice. All our lawyersrs ararree experiencedexperienced membersmember MAIDSTONE Borough Council is if more people wish to use it. We of Resolution, committed to a non-confrontational undertaking a detailed review of have access to another site at the approach to rreesolving family fam problems. three major causes of congestion. bottom of Blue Bell Hill.” The public is to be consulted on A spokesman for Maidstone An initial fixed cost meetingng for just £100 (inc VVAAATT) witwith parking and bus services, with a council said: “The council is re- survey on the public’s attitude to viewing the park and ride service as one of our lawyers can help you see your way forward park and ride completed. the current contract ends in 2018. A and understand your legal position and options. Cllr David Burton, chairman of report will be sent to strategic plan- the borough’s strategic planning, ning, sustainability and transport Our offices are in the centrtrree of Canterburyy,, MaidstonMaidstonee sustainability and transportation committee by July 2017.” committee, said: “The public told us Cllr Burton says more informa- and TTeenterden so, if you wantw to take that first step to it didn’t want another park and ride tion is being gained from the public finding out your options simply visit our website at: at Linton and no longer believes it on other possible moves, such as is the way forward for Maidstone, upgrading Maidstone bus station or so the council has taken a step creating transport hubs at locations www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk back.” such as the old Royal Mail sorting He says park and ride closure at office near Maidstone East station. Canterbury 01227 643266 Eclipse Park saved the council Cllr Burton said junction im- Maidstone 01622 698051 £300,000 a year, at the expense of provements were on the cards, in- 300 core users, many of whom cluding feeder lanes on the Ashford TenterdenTTeenterden 01580 767540 transferred to P&R stations in Will- Road where it joins Willington ington Street and the London Road. Street. Other plans include investi- www.whitehead-monckton.co.ukwww.whitehead-monc.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Cllr Burton said: “We have sta- gations to improve the Coldharbour WhiteheadWhitehead MoncktonMonckton LLimitedimited (no.(no. 008366029),8366029), rregisteredegistered iinn bilised our park and ride offering junction of the M20. He said: “The EnglandEngland & WWales.ales. RRegisteredegistered oofficeffice 7722 KKinging SStreet,treet, MMaidstone,aidstone, Kent,KKeent, and are looking at other areas to early data from the Maidstone gy- MEME14www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk14 11BL.BL. AAuthoriseduthorised aandnd rregulatedegulated bbyy tthehe SSolicitorsolicitors RRegulationegulation tackle the congestion issue. How- ratory shows it is improving jour- AAuthorityuthority uundernder nno.o. 6608279.08279. ever, we will return to park and ride ney times.” DM2016

Maidstone Weald May 2017 5 News downsmail.co.uk Arriva invests Couple find tawny owl in new buses ARRIVA has announced new in- vestment in buses for the Maid- stone area. stuck in woodburner Seven new single-deckers are to be introduced on the 82 service A COUPLE in Headcorn were as- from the town tonished to see a tawny owl glaring centre to Park at them through the glass of their Wood by the woodburner. end of June. The RSPCA were called in to help The UK-built rescue the baffled bird. buses are part of what is de- The husband and wife, spooked scribed by Ar- by strange noises coming from their riva as a bedroom wall, discovered the owl “significant in- screeching at them from their wood vestment” in new buses on three burning stove when they went routes in Kent. downstairs the next morning to in- The confused A new premium bus operating vestigate. tawny owl after between Chatham and Bluewater The bird, identified by RSPCA In- being removed will feature free 4G wifi, USB spector Dave Grant as a tawny owl, charging points, audio-visual route from the had come down the chimney flue and stop displays, and a free news- and ended up trapped in the unlit woodburner by paper for every passenger. stove. RSPCA Inspector The other upgrade will be on the RSPCA Inspector Grant said: Dave Grant 145 service between Chatham bus “The householders couldn’t believe Wearing gauntlets, I was able to pleased with the happy outcome.” station and Warren Wood. their eyes when they saw what was open one of the stove doors, gently The householders are now plan- Arriva area manager Oliver Mon- in their woodburner. They initially bring him out and carry him blink- ning on fitting a chimney cowl to ahan (pictured) said: “The invest- tried to rescue the owl themselves. ing into the sunlight. help prevent this happening again. ment in both our new ArrivaClick But after experiencing the sharp “I checked his eyes and feathers  The RSPCA is a charity which re- on-demand service and new buses talons of the frightened bird, they for soot damage, but he was unaf- lies on public donations to exist. To in Kent and Medway highlight our closed the stove doors back up and fected. So once this lovely bird had assist the inspectors in carrying out continuing commitment to improv- wisely called the RSPCA for help. found his bearings, he flew straight their vital work please text HELP to ing the quality and flexibility of our “By the time I arrived, the tawny off to enjoy his freedom again. This 78866 to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one service to meet our customers’ owl appeared to have calmed down. was a good release and we were all standard text cost. needs.” Homewood Orchard Garden Centre “with our help... you can create the perfect garden” Garden Furniture • Tubs and Containers • Shrubs/Trees (Over 30 varieties of fruit trees) • Pots • Compost/Growbags Garden Ornaments • Bird Tables/Bird Feed• Bark & Aggregate • Turf • Fresh Grown Fruit & Vegetable Plants to buy

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 7 News | General Election downsmail.co.uk Tories ‘virtually unbeatable’ MAIDSTONE MPs Helen Whately and Helen Grant are set to be returned to Westminster with virtually unassailable majorities, according to one respected polling service. Electoral Calculus (EC) claims the candidate until after the May 4 local members have actually increased county council elections, while the their predicted majorities since the Green Party has already announced general election was called by Prime Stuart Jeffery will stand against Mrs Minister Theresa May on April 18. Grant. The more interesting seat to watch The Labour Party has re-adopted is the tussle between Mrs Grant and Allen Simpson, although EC sees a the Liberal Democrat Emily Fermor. drop of about 4% in support at the Whilst the EC prediction gives polling booths. Mrs Grant a 52.6% majority and an In Mrs Whately’s Faversham and 87% chance of winning, the pro- Mid Kent constituency – which was jected Lib Dem share has also in- formerly held by Sir Hugh Robert- creased by 3%. son – her EC projected share of the Mrs Grant said: “Of course, I am poll has risen by almost 3% to taking nothing for granted and see 63.7%. It concludes this gives her a it as a privilege to serve this fantas- 95% chance of winning. tic patch.” Ukip is predicted to come in sec- MP Helen Grant and Liberal Democrat candidate Emily Fermor She has been very vocal in con- ond, but with a much reduced vote demning the massive house-build- several months ago, aged 23, as the been particularly well-represented share, while the Lib Dems are the ing programme in the borough and Lib Dems sensed a snap election, at Westminster. only other mainstream party likely the knock-on effects for the local has already won admirers. “I have been pretty encouraged to show an increase on June 8. roads. The Oxford history graduate, who by the fact that, out on the doorstep, Labour is predicted to see a 6% re- Her campaign to save the Maid- attended Invicta Grammar School, people know I am Maidstone born versal in its fortunes. stone barracks from closure and will be attractive to younger voters and bred, went to Invicta and Mrs Whately can expect a major- work on flood defences will almost and those who wished to remain in Boughton Monchelsea Primary ity well in excess of 20,000, making certainly feature in her campaign lit- the EU at last year’s referendum. School and have local interests at her seat – which is at risk under re- erature. She said: “I get the impression heart.” viewed boundary changes – among Miss Fermor, who was selected that some voters feel they have not Ukip is unlikely to announce a the very safest in the country. The race for THE CANDIDATES CANDIDATES for the Maidstone constituencies were not finalised No 10 is on as Downs Mail went to press. So THE official flag went down on the far, these are the most likely nom- race for power at midnight on Fri- inations: day, April 21 – the official start of MAIDSTONE AND THE WEALD the election period – with Parlia- Helen Grant (Conservatives) ment being dissolved on May 3. Emily Fermor (Liberal Democrats) This has allowed just over a Allen Simpson (Labour Party) month of campaigning in the dash Stuart Jeffery (Green Party) for the line in this snap election. FAVERSHAM & MID KENT In the meantime, issues like talks Helen Whately (Conservatives) with our EU neighbours will take a David Naghi (Liberal Democrats) back seat. The serious talking will not resume until June, still leaving us on track to leave on Friday, Greens blast Lib Dems Turnout ‘low’ March 29, 2019. GREEN Party candidate Stuart Jef- imise the anti-Tory vote in this safe TURNOUT for both the general Meanwhile, campaigners are fery used his official candidacy an- Conservative seat, but again the Lib election and the poll for Kent aware time is short, with nomina- nouncement to criticise the Liberal Dems refuse to talk. County Council on May 4 could be tions from hopefuls needing to be Democrats for not entering an anti- “Frankly I'm disgusted with their low, according to Labour. lodged with returning officers, Tory alliance. attitude, it is almost as if they want KCC candidate Paul Harper – along with a £500 deposit, by May Mr Jeffery (above), who will stand to see the Tories stay in government. who is defending his Maidstone 11. in the Maidstone & the Weald con- “I will continue to fight both for central division – fears the Brexit- The tightness on time means the stituency, claims the Lib Dems “re- the people in Maidstone and the en- led national election could over- main parties are also in a race to get fused to talk” about an arrangement. vironment, and I will continue to do shadow the local vote. candidates in place and some have He claims the Greens approached politics differently.” Cllr Harper said: “The voters are streamlined their normal selection local Lib Dems to discuss an elec- His Lib Dem opponent, Emily Fer- being asked to go out for the procedures, with more candidates toral alliance to maximise the anti- mor, said: “Whilst I welcome sup- county elections on May 4 and then being chosen centrally. Tory vote in Maidstone. port from all sides, I don’t see the again on June 8. It’s confusing.” Labour, the Conservatives, the Now Mr Jeffery, who has done im- need for some sort of a coalition with SNP and the Lib Dems all say they portant work in highlighting air pol- the Greens. hope to have completed their selec- lution as a result of increased traffic “The fact remains that the Liberal ‘The best deal’ tions within the next week, while in Maidstone, says he is “disgusted” Democrats are the only credible al- SITTING MP for Faversham and smaller parties and independents at the Lib Dems’ refusal to negotiate. ternative to defeat the Tory in this Mid Kent, Helen Whately, sees the may take longer. Mr Jeffery said: “Greens do poli- seat.” general election as a way to As with all races, those taking tics differently. In the 2015 general election, the strengthen Britain’s departure from part have to prove they are going to “Nationally, we approached Green Party polled fewer than 1,400 the European Union. stay the course and already, 12 Labour and Lib Dems to discuss an votes in the constituency but may She said: “It’s a chance to Labour MPs, four Conservatives alliance which would have seen an have a small uplift this time, accord- strengthen (Theresa May’s) hand in and one Lib Dem have said they end to Tory rule. Sadly, they refused. ing to polling website, Electoral Cal- Brexit negotiations and get the best will be standing down nationally. “Locally, we did the same to max- culus. deal for the country and for Kent.”

8 Maidstone Weald May 2017 Tailor makes a 6” Mistake

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 9 News downsmail.co.uk Solar farm plan Bluebell walk boosts hospice MORE than 1,000 walkers, many with their dogs, came together for the Heart of Kent Hospice Bluebell Walk. Among them was six-year-old Elsie Embleton (pictured), who lives near Loose in Maidstone. All were there is turned down for their own reasons to “Get Behind” the hospice, which has been VILLAGERS have been speaking landscape are substantial, both in holding the event for 30 years. of their joy following the decision significance and scale, and would Starting and finishing at by a government inspector to throw not be mitigated by the landscape Harrietsham Village Hall, Elsie’s out plans for a massive solar farm proposals which seek to screen the mum, Hayley – who has a rare auto- in Staplehurst. development from view.” immune disorder and has received The proposed development Staplehurst borough councillor advice and support from the hospice would have taken up 70 hectares of Louise Brice added that, while she in Aylesford – was there to meet her. farm land off Pagehurst Road, with acknowledged farmers need to look She said: “She did it, and she met about 20 hectares set out with over at diversification, the size and im- her goal of doing it without 2,600 racks of almost 64,000 solar pact of the development would have ‘whinging’ (her words not ours).” panels and a 2.1m high mesh fence. been significant. She said: “Resi- Elsie walked with her dad to raise Planning inspector Andrew Ham- dents have campaigned long and £549, and an extra £110 in gift aid. mond noted Great Pagehurst Farm hard to make their views heard.” Waitrose donated water for was within the Low Weald national Fellow borough councillor John walkers and their dogs; Tesco character area, adding: “These wide Perry added: “I am not against re- provided cups, napkins and other open vistas give the landscape its in- newable energy, but it must be in the accessories, while Gary and Lisa trinsic character and qualities. The right place, not in a prominent posi- Micallef gave refreshments and a result would be to fundamentally tion in the Weald of Kent, known for picnic place where families could buy a windmill in memory of loved ones. alter the landscape in a contrived its beauty.” A spokesman for the hospice said: “Thank you to all the walkers and way to seek to accommodate the Villager Shirley thanked support- our volunteers who helped to make Sunday such an enormous success.” solar panels.” ers for standing shoulder-to- In conclusion, he added: “The ben- shoulder on the issue. efits of the scheme accruing from a She said: “We have had to wait Road re-opens after mains upgrade significant reduction in the emission nearly four years for a final decision. THERE was good news for motorists forced to make lengthy detours of greenhouse gases are consider- To say we are delighted to have during work to upgrade a water main in a busy country lane linking able, to which must be added the saved some of our precious, produc- Hollingbourne and Bredgar. benefits of farm diversification and tive countryside, from being indus- The work had been expected to take six weeks, but the route re-opened improved biodiversity. trialised, is a huge understatement.” on Friday, May 5, a fortnight ahead of schedule “However, the harms to the in- Staplehurst Parish Council said it South East Water said the scheme was needed to improve the capacity trinsic and visual qualities of the was pleased by the outcome. of the network due to increased demand for water from local farmers.

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 11 News downsmail.co.uk Truckers fined Cancer survivor’s message AN AWARD-winning spa owner is working to raise funds and awareness of women’s cancer after winning her own battle against the disease. Wendy Mullings, who runs Exquisite Spa at the Mercure Great Danes Hotel, Hollingbourne, was diagnosed with gynaecological cancer three on just one day years ago. “I had a scan three months before and was told I was clear”, she said. “But in that time, the tumour had got very large. It was a very fast POLICE enforcement of a lorry ban do think of equal importance is the growing cancer and I was in stage 3.” from Langley to the M20 via Leeds inadequacy of the fines that police She hopes that sharing village was carried out on just a sin- are allowed to issue. her experience will help gle day in 2016, Downs Mail has “These are treated by lorry opera- other women beat the learned. tors as a cost of doing business and disease. She said: “Please Seven notices were issued on May little by way of deterrent. But it fur- be aware of the signs and 25, 2016, with six drivers each pay- ther highlights the need for a Leeds- don’t leave it. Within three ing a £50 fine while another was Langley relief road.” months I had almost got to summonsed for ignoring the weight A spokesman for Kent Police said: stage 4, when there is no restriction. One ticket has been is- “Officers will continue to enforce hope. We cannot ignore it.” sued in 2017. this weight restriction as and when Mum-of-two Wendy is The disclosures by Kent Police their duties allow, and Kent Police supporting the Eve Appeal, were little surprise to Leeds parish encourages residents of Leeds vil- which raises awareness and councillor Lesley Martin, who lage to report details of any vehicle funding into five counts an average of three lorries an seen committing an offence as and gynaecological cancers. She hour flouting the ban when she when they see this take place. is organising a Time for Tea fun event at the spa from 2-5pm on Monday, takes part in LorryWatch surveys. “Kent Police is aware of residents’ May 22, in aid of the charity. The event will include afternoon tea, cakes, a In March, hopes were raised that concerns, and officers will continue bake-off, big prizes and spa treatment tasters. Admission is £5 and Kent Police had decided to clamp to patrol the area in line with their booking is essential. Call 01622 880639 for details. down on truckers ignoring the ban other duties for the rest of the Maid- After surgery and chemotherapy, Wendy is now in remission. when a lorry was pulled in at the en- stone district.” She said: “I had 11 hours of surgery at the Royal Marsden Hospital. The trance to Leeds Castle. But it was a Borough councillor Gill Fort said: whole cancer was removed and I was treated at the oncology department one-off. “If the police don’t stop them and at Maidstone Hospital, where they were wonderful.” County councillor Gary Cooke re- hand out a meaningful fine, they’ll Wendy’s diagnosis came shortly after her daughter, Zoe, gave birth to a cently pressed the chief constable of carry on coming through.” daughter, Felicity. Wendy, who is pictured with her grandchildren, said: “I Kent to do more to enforce the On May 25 last year, police also is- thought I would never see my granddaughter grow up. My family carried 17tonne weight restriction on the sued three more notices for drivers me through the dark moments. Now Zoe has had another baby, Edgar, B2163. He said: “Seven tickets is exceeding their hours, for which one who I might never have seen. I am very lucky.” hardly any, given the frequency with payment of £200 and two payments which they thunder through Leeds. I of £300 were made.

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12 Maidstone Weald May 2017 Advertisement feature downsmail.co.uk We all need to see Eye2Eye We all rely on our eyes and having good Chirag and Manish are both part of a select eyesight in almost every aspect of our daily lives. group of optometrists in the country who So, with such a precious commodity, it is can treat patients by issuing prescriptions. important to have regular eye examinations by The brothers have worked in many different expert professionals. settings from hospitals to independent Eye2eye Opticians is an independent family- practices and are now proud to offer their owned business, run by brothers Chirag and services to the Maidstone area. Manish Patel, who are both specialist Eye tests are carried out with the use of state-of- therapeutic optometrists. They pride the-art equipment, including OCT eye scanning. themselves on providing the highest standards The lenses used in their spectacles are from the of patient care at their clinic at Mid-Kent world-renowned camera company Nikon which Shopping Centre, in Castle Road, Allington. are of the same high quality as their camera • Stockists of Nikon Lenses lenses. Their higher qualifications mean that they are • NHS Emergency referral eye specialists, not just regular opticians, and Chirag and Manish bring a wealth of experience now provide the only accredited primary care to the practice and like to take time to talk to and walk in clinics available acute ophthalmology service for the Maidstone patients to help them to relax and ensure their area. This means they can accept emergency concerns or needs are met. • Orthokeratology and acute referrals for any eye problems and • Stockists of the latest provide medical treatment in house. They Call today to discuss accept walk-ins, optician referrals, GP referrals, your requirements or spectacle frame trends referrals from NHS 111 and A&E. arrange an eye test. • Specialist contact lens fitting • Independent family owned business Find us at: • Experienced friendly staff Unit 8, Mid-Kent Shopping Centre 01622 Castle Road, Allington, Maidstone Kent ME16 0PU 672563 • Disabled access E:[email protected] www.eye2eyeonline.co.uk • Free Parking WINDOWS & DOORS REQUIRING T.L.C? DON’T REPLACE THEM MAINTAIN THEM! MAINTAINING YOUR EXISTING WINDOWS & DOORS IS CONSIDERABLY MORE COST EFFECTIVE AND MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY THAN REPLACING. UPGRADING TO ENERGY EFFICIENT BFRC A & B RATED GLASS WILL HELP SAVE YOU MONEY ON BILLS. Fairdeal are local specialists in the repair, upgrade and maintenance of double glazed windows and doors. We repair PVCu, Aluminium & Timber Fogged double glazed Local Authority Approved glass units - replaced NO Call out charge with with energy rated glass Free Quotations & Advice Handles & mechanisms repaired & replaced We were pleased with the work Fairdeal Windows previously carried out on our porch, so we Window and door hinges went back to them for windows. We are very pleased with the windows and the installers. We and stays “ couldn't fault the work they carried out plus they left everything clean and tidy. Thanks to all Leak and draught repairs the staff too. ” Mr H. - Snodland We supply & install windows, doors & conservatories including UPVC fascias, soffits & guttering Call 01622 902005 FOR FAST FRIENDLY QUOTES & ADVICE www.fairdealwindows.co.uk Celebrating over 25 years of continuous trading Find us at: Unit K, Orchard Business Centre, 20/20 Industrial Estate, Aylesford, Kent ME16 0JZ

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 13 News downsmail.co.uk Sally Army’s move to Kent Leeds Castle brings THE Salvation Army has quit Lon- don and marched to Kent after a two-year review of its operation. The organisation’s South East Di- in photo ID tickets visional Headquarters is now at 11 Tower View, along with The West LEEDS Castle has introduced a new system of photo-identity tickets in a bid Malling Service Centre, which to- gether, employ 35 staff at Kings to stop the practice of “Facebooking swapping”. Hill. The heritage attraction – dubbed Their role includes providing the “loveliest castle in the world” – pastoral care, operational and mis- claims reaction to the new system sion support to local branches of has been “extremely positive”. the church and charity. But some local people feel they Divisional Commander Major should be offered a discount to en- Mark Herbert said: “The Salvation courage them to visit the site near Army spent two years evaluating junction 8 of the M20. every aspect of its mission service One mother-of-two said: “It was in order to be better equipped to common practice for people to go support our church ministers and on Facebook and swap their tickets, Sir David Steele, communities in the UK and Ireland. as it could save you money. chief executive of “We transformed how we allo- “But we’d nearly always have a cate resources so that we can be meal at the Fairfax, buy some food Leeds Castle, left more effective and creative in de- for the ducks or a drink or an ice He said: “Too often I hear and process for tourist and other her- livering relevant and vibrant min- cream while we were there. Per- istry to every generation, and in read on social media of tickets itage attractions which offer admis- haps there should be a discre- swapping hands, being shared or sion tickets that are valid for a year. offering services based on local tionary rate for people who can needs.” not being purchased at all as peo- “The transactional image is prove they live locally. ple use the footpaths over the estate stored securely and used solely for The move is also the result of re- “I won’t be going again. It feels as cent expansion from 20 staff to a to gain entry and the benefit of ensuring the validity of the tickets if local people are being penalised.” what we offer without paying.” on presentation and to protect the combined total of 35, some of A year-long adult ticket costs He said at the time he had “re- ticket holder from misuse of their whom work across the London and £24.90, with a pensioner paying sisted” officials checking tickets in ticket, should it be lost. South East Divisions. £21.90 and a child £16.90, with fur- the grounds, but that has now been “Our terms and conditions have Andrew Blevins, managing di- ther concessions for the disabled. reversed. Even walkers on public always stated that tickets were non- rector of Kings Hill developer Lib- Last year, Downs Mail reported footpaths have been challenged. transferable and nothing has erty Property Trust, said: “We are how Leeds Castle chief executive A spokesman for Leeds Castle changed in that respect. delighted that The Salvation Army Sir David Steel warned ticket-swap- said: “As of March 27, Leeds Castle “Since the introduction of photo chose Kings Hill.” ping was hitting the charity’s fi- introduced a photo ID system for ID, our visitors have been very ac- nances and claimed local causes all admission tickets. commodating, understanding and, Perfect score might suffer. “This is a widely-accepted as a whole, extremely positive.” for care home Police warning as warm Gille jailed STAFF at a residential home in Har- MATTHEW Gillett’s shoplifting rietsham are celebrating after scor- spree in The Mall in Maidstone has ing the perfect 10 in an inspection. weather brings break-ins ended with him going to jail. Rectory House, which provides He was sentenced at Medway support to those with learning dis- POLICE are reminding Maidstone Magistrates’ Court to 120 days in abilities, received full marks for its residents to make sure they lock prison after admitting shoplifting. standards of care in the 2016 Your their doors this spring, following a On March 29, the 34-year-old, of Care Rating Survey – the first time spate of burglaries with the arrival Cambridge Crescent, Maidstone, a perfect score has ever been of better weather. stole household goods worth £129 achieved. Officers have been investigating from a shop in The Mall, Maidstone. The Rectory Lane centre scored a number of reports over the past The following day magistrates full marks in every area assessed, week and say the warmer weather sentenced Gillett to 30 days in giving the service the first perfect creates chances for opportunistic prison. rating in the history of the Your thieves as windows are left open. Because the offence was commit- Care Rating scheme – 120 points Items taken include electrical de- ted during the operational period of above the national average. vices, power tools and bicycles. a suspended sentence, the overall All users strongly agreed that Acting Detective Sergeant length of his sentence is 120 days. staff were sensitive to how they felt, Suzanne Basford said: “In some of had a real say in their care, and the reports, burglars appear to were happy with the support they have entered through a back door help deter thieves.” which had been left open or un- Crime prevention tips include Sandwich bar received. Home manager Robert A SUBWAY sandwich outlet is Mycroft said: “I and the rest of the locked, possibly due to the weather locking back doors and windows getting warmer. before answering the front door; set to open off the A20 near team are delighted to have received Lenham. such a positive report. Every day “Unfortunately, this does create ensuring valuables cannot be seen opportunities for opportunistic of- from the outside; making sure The venue – part of the Texaco the fantastic staff here at Rectory garage – will serve take-away House work hard to ensure that all fenders. sheds, garages and other outbuild- “Kent Police will always thor- ings are locked to ensure criminals food and will also have a seating the people we support are happy area and toilets. and well cared for, and seeing them oughly investigate the circum- cannot gain access to tools which stances behind any reported would help them break into your Lenham councillors are con- show their appreciation in this way cerned about the potential for lit- makes it completely worth it.” incident, but it is always better to home and keeping receipts sepa- prevent offending where we can. tering and the impact on Rectory House is part of the Em- rate so that thieves cannot return There are some simple steps all independent stores in the village brace Group, an independent UK stolen items to the shop for a re- members of the public can take to fund. square. provider of health and social care.

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 17 News downsmail.co.uk Charity award for auctioneer MAIDSTONE property auctioneer Clive Emson has received the coveted Kent Invicta Award for his work supporting various charities and businesses in Kent. Mr Emson was presented with the Lives Foundation and became pres- county council award by its chair- ident two years ago. He has been man, Tom Gates, during a meeting one of the YLF’s independent visi- of the full council after being nomi- tors for young people in care since nated by leader Paul Carter, with 2001 and has been a mentor for the cross-party support. schools’ programme since 2015. His Mr Gates described Clive as a vast experience, support and guid- worthy recipient and for using his ance have made a positive impact to larger than life character to enthusi- the lives of children and young peo- astically promote Kent positively ple in the county and his vision is and widely. that every young person in need Mr Emson, who set up his prop- shall have access to opportunities to erty auction business in Bearsted achieve their potential. Over the more than 25 years has stayed in the years he has assisted many other area, with offices at Rocky Hill, on charities, not least, using his consid- the London Road, in Maidstone. He erable skills as an auctioneer, raising has remained a familiar figure in the thousands for charity and continues area and continues to make use of to do so through the many fundrais- local venues including the county ing events he hosts.” KCC Chairman Tom Gates presents Clive Emson with the Kent Invicta Award showground and the Mercure Great Mr Carter also read an emotional said and not meant but I genuinely Mr Emson was also awarded Danes for his sales. tribute from Darren - one of the believe Clive saved me from where I £5,000 for his chosen charities of the Commenting on his community young people Clive supported as an was going and this award is a small Young Lives Foundation, Kent Com- work Cllr Gates said: “Clive was the independent visitor befriender - recognition of what he has added to munity Foundation and Maidstone founding chairman of the Young which said: “I know things can be my life.” Town Centre Youth Café. Violence rises Drink driver in town centre before court VIOLENT crimes in Maidstone are A DRIVER who admitted multiple on the up and have doubled in two driving offences in Maidstone has years, according to figures just re- narrowly avoided jail. leased. Cornell James Clarke (34) was It shows that there were 88 sentenced to 60 days in prison by recorded crimes of violence or sex- magistrates at Mid Kent Magis- ual offences in the town centre in trates Court, Maidstone, on March January this year. 27. In the previous period last year, But they allowed him to walk the figure was 67, and in 2015 it was free after suspending the sentence 39. The statistics come from the Swimmers warned at weir – meaning it will only come in to website Police.uk THE warmer weather has prompted a safety campaign warning of the dan- force if he re-offends. It describes the category of “vio- ger of paddling in the weir at Yalding. Clarke admitted driving while lence and sexual offences” as in- Leaflets are to be sent to schools and fire officers will talk to tourists disqualified, without insurance, cluding “offences against the bathing near the river’s automatic sluice gates. drink driving and failing to stop. person such as common assaults, The water near Teapot Island and The Lees has been the scene of sev- The court heard Clarke, of Tolsey grievous bodily harm and sexual eral “near misses” in recent years, with a family of four washed out into Mead, Borough Green, drove a offences”. the Medway and others, close to drowning, needing to be rescued. Ford Transit in Sutton Road, Maid- In 2014 the figure was 47; in 2013 A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Services says in spite of warning stone on March 25 while disquali- it was 44; in 2012 it was 34 and in signs, swimmers are still tempted to risk their lives. She said: “The weir pool fied and without insurance. 2011 it was 41. is especially hazardous due to the automatic sluice gates, which can open He failed to stop when asked to The town centre is the area from at any time, without warning, turning a shallow pool into a torrent.” by police and gave a breath test of Fremlin Walk, Earl Street, Week The safety campaign is part of a co-ordinated effort by the Yalding 72mg of alcohol in 100ml of breath. Street, High Street and down to Water Safety Group, which has recently installed a security gate to stop The legal limit is 35mg. Gabriels Hill. people going into the water and Yalding Parish Council, which is erecting Magistrates sentenced Clarke to The majority of the incidents – a fence, gates and more warning signs at the top of the slipway. 60 days in prison, suspended for 12 eight – were recorded in Market months, and banned him from Buildings. driving for five years. He must also pay £85 costs and a £115 victim sur- Driver arrest Belt aack thug sent to jail charge. KENT Police swooped on King A MAIDSTONE thug has been jailed after using his belt to attack his Street, Maidstone, after reports of a victim in Pudding Lane. Village fete dangerous driver. Connor Houston (19), of Dorset Way, was sentenced to 70 days in PLANS are well underway for this They were called at 8.06am and prison at Mid Kent Magistrates’ Court, Maidstone on March 24. year’s Loose Fete, which will have the car stopped in King Street. He admitted affray and possession of an offensive weapon. The Heroes and Heroines as its theme. A man was reported to have left court heard that on January 28,he used or threatened unlawful vio- Shayler’s fun fair and a dog show the vehicle and entered a premises. lence and used his belt as a weapon in Pudding Lane, Maidstone. will be among the attractions at the Police went to the scene and ar- Magistrates sentenced Houston to 40 days in prison. Because the of- event on the King George V Play- rested a 27-year-old man from fences were committed during the operational period of a suspended ing Field in Walnut Tree Lane, from Beckley, Rye, on suspicion of dan- sentence, the overall length of his sentence is 70 days. 1.30-5pm on Saturday, September gerous driving and driving whilst He must also pay a £115 victim surcharge. 2. To book a stall call Anne Rigby unfit through drink or drugs. on 07419 986538.

18 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Woodcut Farm appeal opposed A planning inquiry into the Woodcut Farm development, off junction 8 of the M20, inched closer after councillors rejected a bid by Maidstone Council officers to let the scheme go through unimpeded. Officers claim the authority against development at junction 8 should not contest the appeal by included in Maidstone’s Local Plan, Roxhill Developments because the so we don’t have to keep going council cannot win and the exercise through this.” will prove costly. Denis Spooner (pictured), chair- But, in spite of the borough’s di- man of the Bearsted & Thurnham rector of planning and develop- Society, was “absolutely delighted” ment, Richard Timms, making four by the planning committee’s deci- recommendations to withdraw sion, but fears that ultimately the from the fray, councillors on Maid- borough council will “cave in”. stone’s planning committee voted He added: “It was the right deci- by a margin of 8-5, to back the coun- sion and I am absolutely delighted. cil’s decision to refuse permission But, if you’re asking me if I think for the 47,000sqm business park there will be a development at through to appeal. Woodcut Farm in five years from Ukip's Eddie Powell said: "I'm de- now, then I fear there is a strong lighted about it. We can't just throw likelihood there will be.” in the towel. Last year, my vote was Cllr Matt Boughton, speaking for the casting vote in a 7-6 margin to the 11 Conservative councillors who reject this plan, but this was much velopment and urged councillors to Castle, from a completely inappro- voted to continue the fight, said: more emphatic." “stick to their guns in rejecting the priate development is the right de- “Despite officers’ recommendations The case is now to be sent to a plan”. cision." not to fight the appeal, Conserva- planning referral committee for fur- She said: "Protecting this beautiful She urged the council’s planning tives received cross-party support to ther consideration. part of the countryside – in the referrals committee to respect the overturn this. This decision is clearly MP Helen Whately had previ- shadow of an Area of Outstanding majority view, adding: “What we in line with local residents, council- ously voiced concerns about the de- Natural Beauty, and close to Leeds really need is strong defences lors, businesses and our MP.” Crash injuries POLICE say a lorry and a Range Minister listens to farming concerns Rover were involved in an accident RURAL affairs secretary of state at Staplehurst, in which two people Andrea Leadsom has listened to were hurt. local farmers about their concerns Traffic queued as firefighters for the future outside the EU. worked to help the driver and a She was invited by MP Helen passenger of a long goods vehicle – Whateley, who chairs the one taken to an awaiting ambu- Parliamentary Group for Fruit and lance on a spinal longboard Vegetable Farmers and is stretcher. Crew members from campaigning for a permit scheme three fire engines then used heavy to allow seasonal agricultural rescue equipment to stabilise the workers to come to the UK vehicle. temporarily to work on farms. The accident happened at the Mrs Leadsom said: “Horticulture Headcorn Crossroads on the Mar- is central to my ambition of freeing den Road at 6.15am. up farmers to grow more, sell more Many have already seen a fall in development, and getting the right and export more and I look forward numbers of applications for fruit- balance on pesticides. Hug for church to working with Helen and Kent’s picking jobs, and are anticipating Mrs Whateley said: “Our famous farmers to achieve this.” THE ancient tradition of “Clypping bigger recruitment challenges once fruit and hop farms shape the local Mrs Whately says the horticulture the church” brought smiles to the the UK leaves the EU. countryside and make it the industry needs thousands of congregation at Headcorn’s St Mrs Whately and Mrs Leadsom Garden of England we love. seasonal workers every year to pick Peter’s and St Paul’s Church. visited WB Chambers and Son, a Farmers – and their workers – make and pack produce. But with low Based on the old English word large fruit farm in Sutton Valence, a vital contribution to the local unemployment locally, and only clyppan, to embrace, the congrega- where discussion focused on economy, and at a national level, about 800 jobseekers, farmers say tion encircled the church to “give concerns about access to labour, I’m proud Kent produces an they are reliant on workers from the building a hug” during the rising costs, the importance of important share of the country’s overseas – mainly EU countries. Mothering Sunday service. investing in research and supply of fruit.” A spokesman said: “This seemed a great way to say thank you to our mothers and the mother church.” Police cash to help ex-service staff 999 fall alert CASH raised from the sale of project, tailored to meet the ward Trust continues to provide MEDICAL staff from the air ambu- items seized by Kent Police will needs of ex-service personnel a hugely important service to lance base in Marden dashed by car be used to help former soldiers who find themselves battling some of the most vulnerable peo- to a nearby emergency on April 27. suffering from addiction and with addictions, often com- ple within our communities and They joined land ambulance mental health issues. pounded by complications such the launch of the Invicta Project service SECAmb in treating the pa- The Invicta Project will be as post-traumatic stress disorder will hopefully make it easier for tient, who had suffered a stomach launched later this year by the or relationship breakdown. those from a military back- injury in a fall. Kenward Trust at Yalding. Superintendent Phil Hibben, ground to get the appropriate He was taken to hospital by road The £500 donation will buy deputy divisional commander support and assistance they after the alarm was raised at paint to decorate facilities for the for West Kent, said: “The Ken- clearly deserve.” 12.12pm.

Maidstone Weald May 2017 19 20 Maidstone Weald May 2017 Dining

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 21 News downsmail.co.uk Butchers shuts Mike devoted to saving THE shop that has housed Lenham’s independent butcher for 60 years has closed. Guy Lister had run the family business, GB Lister, for the past 11 abandoned terrapins years and said personal reasons were behind his decision to shut the LEGIONS of abandoned pet tur- of the UK. She said: “I feel sorry for store on The Square. tles are living in our lakes and them but I wish we had more Lenham Parish Council clerk rivers where they become prone to room.” Margo McFarlane said the business disease and starvation and are a Mike said: “People hand them in would be greatly missed. She said it threat to wildlife. because they can’t look after them was wrong to conclude that the Co- Bought as children’s pets while and fishermen find them in lakes op was to blame, but agreed that tak- brightly-coloured babies no bigger and rivers. I have just got one from ings had been hit at local shops. than a 50p coin, they grow to din- Bluewater – someone found it She said: “This is a pattern being ner-plate size and are dumped by walking on the side of the road. A repeated in rural communities. Lo- owners who mistakenly think it is lot are dumped in Mote Park. cals need to spend money in these kind to release them into the wild. “People think terrapins are lovely outlets if we are to retain the diver- Hundreds have ended up being presents for children. But they sity of outlets in this isolated area.” cared for at the Turtle Sanctuary at grow to about 40cm and can live Staplehurst, which was set up by for 30 years. Some people get rid of Rogue traders Mike Butcher in his back garden. them because they have got too big POLICE are investigating after an Mike, pictured, now has 1,000 or because they think they smell.” from someone on Facebook who elderly Maidstone woman paid for a terrapins, or freshwater turtles, in Dumped in the wild, the crea- was giving it away. I found they roof restoration - but was told days tanks and ponds behind his home were being abandoned worldwide. tures can become diseased, blind later it needed more work. in Green Hill and hopes to raise I took in more and I started build- and deformed through poor diet Officers warned that rogue traders money to set up a charity so that he ing ponds. There are three large and conditions, and can strip a wa- overcharge for unnecessary work, can rescue even more. ponds and tanks in the garden and terway of fish, newts and frogs, and damage property deliberately to get The 37-year-old has been fasci- tanks in every room. even young waterfowl. money or leave work unfinished. nated with terrapins since child- “My dream is to build a big sanc- Mike said: “I don’t re-home Inspector Jody Gagan-Cook said: hood when he was a fan of the tuary, but we need more donations. them. I just want to look after them. “Anyoneneeding work done should Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He To register as a charity we need We run a sanctuary. We take them obtain two or three quotes from rep- began taking them in six years ago £5,000 a year and we are lucky to them in and keep them until they utable companies." when he became concerned about get £40.” die of old age. We only ask for a do- Call Kent Police appeals line on people dumping them. Mike’s mum Denise (62) helps to nation.” To make a donation go to 01622 604100 or email west.divi- Mike , who is looking for crowd- care for the turtles, which arrive www.justgiving.com/crowdfund- [email protected] funding, said: “I got the first one from throughout Kent and the rest ing/denise-butcher lice.uk. Pair convicted of Liam’s recycling prize LIAM Woodcock (10) has turned his love of art and the environment into a winning design to encourage residents to recycle our food waste. His artwork will play a major part in a promotional campaign on the side roof repair scam of Arriva buses across the borough, following a “significant decline in the number of residents placing their food bin out each week for collection”, TWO men who preyed on a dis- ported a van at a service station in according to Maidstone Council. abled pensioner to steal his bank Linton Road, Coxheath and Chap- As well as supporting cards and cash while he was in- man and King were arrested. About the drive to keep specting their roof repairs have £1,000 was found hidden under a households converting been sentenced. mat in the driver’s foot well. their left-overs into Kalup Chapman (26) was jailed Both men were at Maidstone compost, Liam, from for a year after Crown Court for sentencing , where Staplehurst Primary tricking his way Chapman, formerly of Sitting- School, bagged himself into the elderly bourne, was jailed after admitting an iPad Mini 2 and man’s home by the burglary. King (26), formerly of £1,000 for his classmates. claiming his Teynham, received a three-month Head Cathy Farthing roof needed re- sentence, suspended for 12 months, said: “The children were pairing. in connection with burglary and all very excited about the The man – handling stolen goods. He had de- competition and this was who was in his nied the charges but was sentenced reflected in the wonderful 80s – had paid following a trial. entries.” an initial £120 after being told by Detective Sergeant Suzanne Bas- More than 1,500 Chapman (above) and his accom- ford said: “Chapman and King youngsters from 15 plice Samuel King that a fascia was picked on their victim because they primary schools entered the competition, with Rebecca Judd, of St John’s damaged at his Wolfe Road home. knew he was vulnerable. Thank- Primary School, Grove Green, taking second place. The court heard that as part of the fully, some quick thinking by an of- The council’s recycling team has been busy battling to keep the public distraction burglary on January 19, ficer led to their arrests less than an recycling their food waste through competitions and school visits and at 2015, one of the pair asked the man hour after the crime had happened. supermarkets, where they have been giving away kitchen caddys. to go outside and check the work. “Sadly, criminals sometimes tar- Education officer Nicola Toulson said: “As well as launching this But when he did so, both men dis- get the more vulnerable members competition, we visited schools with a theatre show called At Home with appeared along with their van. The of our communities. Their crimes the Caddys, that played to over 3,000 people on the two-week tour. The resident then found that money and can have a devastating impact on response to the campaign has been brilliant and we are thrilled with the bank cards had been taken. the victims. However, by working winning design.” However, 20 minutes after a de- together we can and do stop them, Liam is pictured with actor Ant Payne, who plays Captain Caddy in the scription of the suspects and their so please keep your eyes peeled and council's 50-minute promotional show. vehicle was circulated, an officer re- report any suspicious behaviour.”

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 23 News downsmail.co.uk Princess Eugenie backs school of osteopathy THE European School of Osteopa- graduate degree programme leads thy (ESO) in Maidstone has an- to the Integrated Master’s Degree in nounced that Princess Eugenie Osteopathy (M.Ost), validated by Police destroy (pictured) is to be its royal patron. Buckinghamshire New University. The appointment has been de- The ESO was founded in Paris in scribed by the school’s principal as 1951 as Ecole Francaisȩ seized scooter a “huge accolade” for the school, d’Ostéopathie (EFO) and moved to A SCOOTER being ridden in an “an- which has been located in the England in 1965. tisocial” manner in Ditton has been county for more than four decades. Initially based in London, it relo- seized and destroyed by Kent Police. The 27-year-old daughter of the cated to Maidstone in 1971, where Officers were called to Ditton Duke and Duchess of York has had it continued to deliver its French- Court Quarry at 3pm on Monday, a long-standing history of muscu- speaking programme. April 3, where two people were seen loskeletal healthcare since she had Three years later, due to student driving the bike. a back operation to correct scoliosis demand, a full-time English speak- A Kent Police statement said: 15 years ago. ing programme was created. “They were then reported to have ESO, which carries out more than at our clinic is subsidised by the The school was incorporated as a driven it onto Ditton Recreation 20,000 consultations locally each ESO; Her Royal Highness’s support registered charity trading as the Eu- Ground and on the footpaths lead- year, has both academic and clinical will enable us to help even more ropean School of Osteopathy/Ecole ing into Pear Tree Avenue. facilities, offering students, patients members of the local community.” Européenne d’Ostéopathie and in “Police attended and located the and members of the Maidstone Alongside her new patronage, October 1974 its first four-year full- scooter which had been abandoned. community the benefit of first class Princess Eugenie will continue her time diploma began. It was subsequently destroyed.” osteopathic care. work as patron of the Royal Na- The ESO’s main academic and Kent Police Sergeant Joanne Mott, ESO principal Charles Bruford tional Orthopaedic Hospital. administrative site is at Boxley of the Tonbridge and Malling Com- said: “This is a huge accolade for The European School of Osteopa- House, with a dedicated teaching munity Safety Unit, said: “I would the school and recognition of the thy (ESO) is recognised globally as clinic near Maidstone town centre. always encourage anyone who wit- work we undertake. One of our a leading osteopathic institution, ESO students, under supervision nesses antisocial behaviour to report charitable aims is to ensure osteo- graduating forward-thinking and of experienced osteopaths, provide it by calling Kent Police on 101. pathic care is available and afford- high-quality osteopaths from the over 20,000 consultations to the “But in an emergency, always call able for the whole community, and UK and all over the world. community of Maidstone and sur- 999.” each and every treatment provided The school’s four-year under- rounding towns each year. Cash for Nepal MAIDSTONE’S strong Nepalese community helped the Rotary Club of Maidstone stage a fund- raising evening at Boughton Monchelsea Village Hall in aid of the Nepalese Earthquake Appeal. Through Jhapat Bhujel’s café and catering services in Mangravet Avenue, they helped put on a three-course Nepalese meal for 90 guests, before entertainment from musicians and dancers. The event raised more than £1,200. Titch inquest Warning of dog disease AN inquest into the death of a man who fell during an charity pram race A MAIDSTONE group for dog from becoming infected. “depressed” with a loss of appetite has revealed he died of a severe trau- matic brain injury. lovers has warned owners to be on The devastating illness can cause a and they may start to vomit. Francis “Titch” O'Sullivan (52) suf- its guard against a deadly disease dog's flesh to rot and can ultimately In this latest outbreak, three cases fered a serious head injury at the an- sweeping the nation, four years lead to kidney failure, tiredness, have been confirmed within a 50- nual Sutton Valence pram race, on after it last appeared. vomiting and loss of appetite. mile radius of Chelmsford city cen- New Year's Day. He died in a Lon- RK9: Maidstone Borough Council If dogs displaying any of these tre. don hospital the next day. Responsible Canine Ownership symptoms are not treated urgently, Owners who spot wounds or le- The Langley resident, who often posted on its Facebook page that it they can die of a fever, reports Mi- sions on the limbs of their pet, or on served behind the bar in the George was “feeling concerned” about re- crosoft News. their dog's face, that appear to take a Inn in Leeds, was riding on a Spit- ports. It is thought that the disease is long time to heal, should make a fire-themed vehicle when it crashed. It posted: "This dreadful disease is picked up on the paws and legs on prompt visit to the vet. The father of three had served in still out there, so please be super vig- muddy walks, so dog owners are re- Alabama Rot, which was first dis- the Army as a tank driver in Prince ilant and share." minded to always wash off wood- covered in dogs in America, broke Harry's former regiment. Alabama Rot can lead to devastat- land mud, check for signs of disease out in the UK between December Thousands turned out to watch ing symptoms in all breeds of dogs and if in doubt, call the vet. 2012 and March 2013 and killed 17 the charity event, which involves and there is no way to prevent pets Dogs can also appear to become dogs. people racing in homemade prams.

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More than just a gym. News downsmail.co.uk Police assaulted by mum of five

A BINGE-drinking mother-of-five Police officers arrested her and she on a night out with her daughter in kicked and bit them as she was led Maidstone went into a rage after to their van. seeing her thrown out of a bar. Inside the vehicle, she abused PC Fiona Brown, 36, of Sheals Court, Aurangzeb Rehman saying: “Do you Old Tovil Road live here? You are taking someone (pictured), is now else’s job. Keep touching me with banned from every your foreign a***. Do you send pub in the town money back to your family because and was given a you are poor?” suspended jail sen- She admitted using racially aggra- tence for racial vated abusive words and assaulting High Sheriff’s boost to Trust abuse and assault- him and PCs Daniel Barker and ing police officers. Michael O’Leary. THE mental health charity Blackthorn Trust, which is based in Barming, She had drunk four to five glasses Magistrates ordered her to pay has been awarded a High Sheriff Award for the charity’s valuable of wine at a pub in Tovil on Boxing them each £50 compensation. contribution to the community of Kent and a £500 grant from the High Day and was heading home with her Prosecuting, Russell Morling, said Sheriff of Kent’s Award Fund. daughter Sarah Drinkwater (20), Brown “came off rather worse” after The High Sheriff of Kent’s last duty is to present the annual High from Cheshire. suffering bruises on her arms during Sheriff Awards. But Miss Drinkwater wanted to the fight with the officers. The outgoing sheriff is Kathrin Smallwood, pictured here in the centre carry on partying and ‘reluctantly’ “She apologises to the officers and with Cllr Malcolm Greer and trust manager Emma Halpin. Brown went with her to Bar Choco- for her behaviour. She has an issue The aim of The High Sheriff of Kent’s Award Fund, which was set up in late in Market Buildings. with binge-drinking and has been 2009, is to recognise outstanding acts by public servants relating to the There she had beer and shots and banned from pubs in Maidstone judiciary and by individual volunteers, organisations and young people tried to intervene when her daugh- under the MaidSafe scheme.” whose selfless acts have been of benefit to communities across the ter was thrown out of the bar. Magistrates gave her a jail term county. Prosecuting, Andrew Jones, said: suspended for a year, ordered her to The High Sheriff visited the Blackthorn Trust last November, where “Miss Drinkwater was restrained by do 20 rehabilitation activity days she was hugely impressed by the range of support on offer to those with the manager and Miss Brown and pay £85 costs as well as the £150 mental, physical health difficulties or learning disabilities. grabbed him and pulled his hair.” compensation.

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26 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk Health Measures to avert GP crisis PLANS to avert a crisis due to a shortage of GPs in the area have been revealed to the Downs Mail. This follows publication of a which includes Maidstone and “This will provide opportunities study which shows 40% of GPs in Malling. for greater innovation and for clini- Kent plan to leave general practice Dr Bob Bowes, chairman of the cians to develop their skills and we in the next five years. budget-holding, GP-led NHS West are hopeful this will attract new re- Already many patients are in dif- Kent Clinical Commissioning cruits to the profession. ficulties. A local NHS consultation Group, told the Downs Mail the “The CCG is developing initia- meeting was told by a member of survey results were concerning but tives to analyse workforce gaps for Maidstone Hospital A&E staff that not surprising. It reflected the na- GPs and practice staff, promote pressures on the department were tional scene. training and education, and ensure largely caused because the public He said: “West Kent CCG is cur- there is a sustainable and flexible either could not register with a GP rently undertaking a full audit of workforce to meet future popula- or a timely appointment was im- GP premises to decide where fu- tion needs. possible. ture local investment is needed to “Other projects to reduce pres- In neighbouring Swale the Iwade ensure premises are fit for purpose sures on GPs, and make sure pa- practice should have five GPs – and one vacancy and 40% are short of and patients can get more tailored tients across our area have access to there are none. nurses. local care. the right care in the right place, in- A study by Kent Local Medical This is at a time when the Kent “We are also looking at how we clude training medical assistants to Committee shows most of the 40% population is increasing rapidly – can provide care differently by process paperwork more effec- planning to leave will be retiring, and the number of people over 65 sharing services across a number of tively to free-up GP time, promot- and there are not enough young re- will grow by 25% in the next few GP practices working in ‘clusters’, ing recruitment and retention cruits to replace them. years. or combining GP and hospital serv- schemes and increasing the use of Of the 250 Kent surgeries sur- About one third of the respond- ices as we are proposing in Eden- technology for patients to book and veyed, half already have at least ing surgeries are in West Kent, bridge. cancel appointments online.” CPR scheme SECAmb is inviting schools and Paul fighting back after heart disease community groups to register their interest in Restart a Heart – a CPR A HEADCORN man who had a awareness campaign. heart attack at the age of 43, is The trust is keen to hear from joining the fight against heart schools and community groups disease by taking on the Nightrider aged Year 6 and upwards inter- London cycling challenge in aid of ested in taking part and from the British Heart Foundation (BHF). Paul Turpin will pedal the city healthcare professionals who could streets on June 10 and 11 to Paul Turpin help deliver the training. Email highlight that heart disease can [email protected]. cycling with his strike anyone at any time. daughter Gracie The director of a London (11), and nine- Death rates architects’ firm, Paul’s demanding year-old son life often led to anxiety. Last MORTALITY levels in Maidstone Hendrix and Tunbridge Wells hospitals are September, he woke up one being closely monitored because morning with chest pains from a stone in weight and I feel good, but been training at weekends and recently they have been higher than heart attack and had to have two mentally it remains challenging. taking my children out on the bikes, anticipated. stents in his coronary arteries. Support in the professional which has been really nice.” workplace is so important. It’s no The Nightrider London is part of A new medical director (Dr P. Paul said: “The hardest part of moving on with my life has been to longer an option for me to take on a series of Nightrider charity bike Maskell) has been appointed and find a new way of coping with the the stress burden or lead the rides. Cyclists in London ride hospital mortality is his priority pressures of my job. I have 25 years lifestyle I used to.” overnight along one of two road focus. Mortality rates are not a sure of professional life left, so I need to Paul has signed up for the routes – the 100km and a 50km reflection of care provided – but completely change how I balance Nightrider London 50K challenge ride, both starting and finishing at can be a warning sign. things. Finding my new normal is with his partner, Kathleen Pratt. Lee Valley VeloPark. mentally really difficult. He said: “I love London and I love To support Paul’s fundraising, see Anorexia help “Six months on, I have lost two it even more in the light nights. I’ve his justgiving page. AN all-age Eating Disorder Service is to be operated in the area, often in a patient’s home if appropriate. The age group most at risk is 15- Drive to improve urgent care 24, with anorexia the third most common long-term illness among A DRIVE to improve urgent and for: “front-door clinical screening” A plan for support for care homes teenagers. It is the most common emergency care in the area is to be in A&E departments and measures should be complete by July. cause of death among young emphasised by the local budget- to support patient flow; special The role of urgent treatment cen- women in this age group. holding GP-led NHS West Kent mental health care in A&Es; sup- tres across West Kent is being re- Clinical Commissioning Group. port for care homes; the role of ur- viewed. But the group sees meeting NHS gent treatment centres. NHS England expects 40% of the More cost cuts England’s expectations as “a signif- Some GP streaming does occur in country to benefit from access to THE local health budget-holding icant challenge.” These include local A&Es and the group plans to GP appointments at evenings and NHS West Kent Clinical Commis- treating 90% of A&E patients improve the system. Discharge sup- weekends by March 2018, extend- sioning Group has reviewed its op- within four hours by September port initiatives are in place and ing this to the whole country by erating budget for 2017/19 and says this year and 95% by March 2018. these will be enhanced. March 2019. that “an extensive cost reduction From April 10-16, Maidstone and The group has won extra funding  The local group says it is also de- programme is needed”. Tunbridge Wells hospitals’ A&E to enhance staffing and hours for veloping partnerships among key This follows three reduction ex- performance was 88.2%. specialist mental care support in local providers to integrate care in ercises over the past two years. NHS England is also pressing both its A&Es. the area.

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28 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Burial ground Molly rewarded for her to be garden A REDUNDANT burial ground in Headcorn will become a garden, commitment to village but with public access. The ownership of the old Baptist burial ground in Love Lane will IF it’s enthusiasm you seek, then which became a significant event transfer to the owner of old chapel one villager has put her energy to from 1981-94, raising money for the house, along with the responsibil- good use – earning the coveted primary school and church. ity for keeping it in a safe condition. community award from the Kent She edited the monthly Ulcombe The decision to hand over the Association of Local Councils. Parish Newsletter and partly wrote burial ground has been taken by Molly Poulter was nominated for Ulcombe's Story, an illustrated 255- the Baptist Union Corporation, the KALC title in recognition of her page history of the village, which trustees and Headcorn Baptist “hard work, commitment, and en- was distributed to villagers. Church. thusiasm” which has been the inspi- Peter Titchener, chairman of Ul- When the church community ration for dozens of successful combe Parish Council, said: “Mrs moved into the village and built a projects over the last 50 years. Poulter is one of those very rare peo- new chapel in Station Road in 1819, Now 84, her achievements include ple who succeed in transforming a the burial ground – a mile outside helping to raise more than £1m for community, for the benefit of every- of Headcorn – was retained by the the Heart of Kent Hospice, and insti- one, through their vision, hard work Baptist Church. The old chapel gating community groups and and enthusiasm. house became a home, and some of events with appeal to everyone from “Although she is now in her 84th the land was sold. horse fans to dog owners, young tory Society – organising talks and year she continues, indefatigably, The cemetery has not been used mums to church-goers. coach trips for both every year. In re- with all of her current activities in for burials for over 50 years and Mrs Poulter moved to Ulcombe in cent years she founded the Friends spite of her deteriorating health and had become overgrown, in spite of 1966 and, in spite of having two of All Saints' Church and, as a for- has just published her memoirs, ‘Of a neighbour’s efforts to tend the small children and her husband Bill mer churchwarden, the deanery Such Things’. site. at work, tirelessly set about instigat- synod representative for All Saints' “Mrs Poulter deserves this recog- The responsibility for keeping ing community projects and raising Church and Lay Chair of the North nition and we are delighted that she the burial ground as a garden site money for good causes. Downs Deanery Synod, Molly re- has received this award.” will now change hands after more Her work has embraced organisa- mains actively involved on the The award was presented at the than two centuries in the owner- tions in her village and as far afield Parochial Church Council. council’s annual parish meeting and ship of the Baptist Church. as Maidstone and Aylesford. According to Ulcombe Parish formally, by the High Sheriff of Development of the site will not At home, she started Ulcombe Council, which nominated Molly for Kent, George Jessel. He congratu- be permitted and public access will playgroup, the baby-sitting group, the award, she helped re-start and lated her on her achievements and be safeguarded so that those fami- and the village hall committee, the then run the Ulcombe Horse Show, presented her with a book about lies who may wish to visit graves in Friendship Club and Ulcombe His- Dog Show and the village fair, Kent and its Lieutenancy. the burial ground can do so.

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 29 News downsmail.co.uk Lockmeadow date promise Wedding ‘day of love’ THE owners of the Lockmeadow centre in Maidstone have promised that the building’s new front en- trance will be completed soon, after after cancer diagnosis months of delay. The refurbishment of the cinema A COUPLE have celebrated their and leisure complex, including the wedding with a day “full of colour, front entrance, was originally due to laughter and love” after receiving a be completed by January, then the devastating cancer diagnosis. end of March. Michael Lawrence had planned a Newlyweds Kames Capital told Downs Mail: romantic proposal to Shirley Lowry, Michael and “We would like to apologise for the under the Northern Lights during a delays to the re-opening of the front Shirley Norwegian Christmas holiday. Lawrence are entrance and any inconvenience this But the trip to the land of the Au- determined to has caused. As previously men- rora Borealis had to be called off tioned by the Downs Mail, we expe- after the shock discovery that Shirley make the most rienced some delays to the work (52), of Egremont Road, Bearsted, of their life outside of our control, but we are was suffering from cancers which together, now hoping these have been re- consultants said were untreatable. despite solved, allowing us to re-open the Instead, Michael (59), a funeral di- Shirley’s cancer entrance this week.” rector with five offices in Bearsted, diagnosis The redesign includes a glass en- Barming, Gravesend and Medway, trance and canopy, with improve- proposed on Christmas Day. ments to the steep steps to make Shirley happily accepted and the access for the disabled easier. ing 25 years with Lloyds Bank. She He is president of the Rotary Club couple agreed on an early wedding has conducted many services and of the Weald and Shirley is a Maid- date. The service took place at funerals. She has had to withdraw stone Rotary Club member. Farm shed fire Boughton Monchelsea Church re- from this work as she has undergone Shirley said: “We’re truly blessed INVESTIGATIONS are still being cently, followed by a reception at intense chemotherapy. Recently, the to have the friendship, support and carried out after fire ripped through Maidstone’s Hilton Hotel. Shirley’s couple went to Scotland for spe- love of so many friends, Rotarians, a building used to store farm equip- career is in life celebrancy. She was cialised mistletoe treatments, to try colleagues and our families at this ment in Barming. ordained as a minister with Maid- to slow the progress of the cancers. challenging time. The wedding day Firefighters were called at just stone Independent Christian Spiri- Michael said: “Consultants have was wonderfu - full of colour, laugh- after 10am on Sunday April 16 to the tualist Church in Tonbridge Road, given Shirley a year or two and we’re ter and love, especially to celebrate storage shed in Farleigh Lane. Maidstone, seven years ago, follow- determined to make the most of it.” our love.” Orchard Surgery gets good rating LANGLEY’S GP surgery has re- On the issue of patient care, the ceived a “good” rating from the inspectors’ report noted: “Patients Care Quality Commission (CQC). said they were treated with com- The CQC inspection gave the Or- passion and dignity and they were chard Surgery in Horseshoes Lane , involved in decisions about their Langley, practice a thumbs-up in treatment. all aspects of patient care. “Information for patients about Among the many positive obser- the services available was easy to vations from the inspectors, it was understand and accessible. noted that the surgery is well-led, “Staff treated patients with kind- patients were treated with dignity ness and respect, and maintained – particularly older people – and patient confidentiality.” families receive a good standard of The practice was praised for the Japanese prints go on show care. way in which older people received MAIDSTONE Museum is providing visitors with the chance to experience The surgery – run by Dr Jacque- services, such as telephone re- a taste of the Land of the Rising Sun this spring. line Dennison – is managed well, minders of appointments. An exhibition running until mid-June, Japan: A Floating World in Print, says the CQC. The report notes: “The practice presents more than 60 ukiyo-e prints from the museum’s extensive The report adds: “There was a Japanese collection. clear leadership structure and staff used the services of a local volun- Dating from the 18th to the 20th centuries, the works have been felt supported by management. teer group to assist patients to at- drawn from the collection of museum benefactor, Sir Walter Samuel. The practice had a number of poli- tend appointments or collect Son of Lord and Lady Bearsted, Samuel’s collection was accumulated cies and procedures to govern ac- prescriptions.” during his travels in the Far East when his father’s company – Shell Oil – tivity and held regular governance Families and young people also conducted business in the region. The works would eventually be meetings. receive good care at the Orchard donated to the museum in 1923 via the National Arts Collection Fund. “There was an overarching gov- Surgery, according to the CQC Evelyn Palmer of Maidstone Museum said: “Our selection of ukiyo-e ernance framework which sup- The inspectors found systems in prints originates from the Edo and Meiji periods, when Japan finally ported the delivery of the strategy place to deal with situations when opened up to the rest of the world following two centuries of isolation. and good quality care. things do not go according to plan. “As such, the popularity of the prints among Western travellers was The provider was aware of and The Orchard Surgery welcomes significant, and Sir Walter collected a magnificent selection.” complied with the requirements of feedbacks, and users can comment the duty of candour.” at www.iwantgreatcare.org.

30 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk News Roads closures Decades of loyal service TWO of Downs Mail’s sales team have been celebrating two decades with the business – in the same year the newspaper turned 20 years old. Jo-Anne Brown for civic parade and Natasha Bastone both MOTORISTS will be delayed by  Mill Street joined Mail the closure of more than a dozen  Bishops Way Publications Ltd in streets in Maidstone for the tradi-  Knightrider Street 2007. tional Civic and Freedom Parade.  College Road To mark their The borough council has apolo-  Old College Horseway road achievement, gised ahead of the parade and civic closed from 6am to 1pm company service for any inconvenience  Jubilee Square and Bank Street Chairman Claire caused by the road closures, which closed 9am to 5pm Procter presented take place from from 10.30am to The Mill Street car park will also the pair with a 12.30pm, on Saturday, May 20. be closed until 1 pm. bunch of flowers The historic parade, where some The parade will be led by the and engraved will march with fixed bayonets, Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas pens. starts in Maidstone town centre at and will incorporate the inaugura- Jo and Natasha are pictured here on Bearsted Green, just a stone’s 11.15am, with the Civic Service at tion of the new Mayor of Maid- throw from the Mail Publications Ltd offices. All Saints’ Church at noon. Rolling stone, Cllr Malcolm Greer, who road closures will be used where will later ride through the town in a possible, affecting: horse drawn carriage. Union Jack  Sandling Road at its junction flags are to be handed out. Aled is back at Leeds Castle with the White Rabbit roundabout A spokesman for Maidstone  ALED Jones has been lined up to host the Leeds Castle Classical Station Road Council said: “Roads will only be Concert this summer. It is the second year running that he will be  St Faith’s Street closed to allow the formation and  presenting the event, this year on Saturday, July 8. Week Street safe passage of the parade, not for Event director Richard Millward said: “He will be acting more as  High Street the full length of time; because of the event host this year, interacting with the performers on stage  King Street security implications, parking re- and with the audience.”  Wyke Manor Road junction with strictions along the route will be Aled swept to fame in the 80s as one of the world's most success-  King Street tightly enforced. ful boy sopranos and for the Christmas hit Walking In The Air from  Bank Street “Residents, visitors and mo- the cartoon The Snowman.  Pudding Lane junction with torists passing through the town The concert line-up includes Royal Philharmonic Orchestra con- High Street centre will be delayed on the morn- ducted by John Rigby, singing sensations the Patriot Girls, soprano  Lower High Street junction with ing and the Council apologises for Katie Bird and tenor Anthony Flaum. High Street any inconvenience caused.” PLANT & EQUIPMENT HIRE Diggers/Dumpers & Rollers Towers & Ladders Lighting & Heating Breakers & Wackers Mixers & Sanders Powered Access & Cherry Pickers All other building tools & equipment HYDRAULIC including garden & HOSES landscaping equipment 01580 891234 FLO Lodge Road, Staplehurst GAS www.acornhire.com Mon - Fri 7.30am - 5.00pm & Sat 7.30 - 1.00pm

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 31 News downsmail.co.uk River festival plan scuppered

MAIDSTONE’S popular river fes- stone, but this has been ignored.” thing and we had even lined up vol- idents and visitors to the River Med- tival has been cancelled – with the Mark Smurthwaite, secretary of unteers from McDonald’s to clear way.” blame laid at the door of the bor- the Medway River Users’ Associa- rubbish,” added Mr Smurthwaite. He added: “If the organisers are ough council. tion, added: “People in the council “We are at a loss as to why the keen on having a festival, a change Organisers say the council’s “in- do not want the festival. council doesn’t like the event. It cer- of date could have been an option. competence” in arranging repair “I don’t know why, because it pro- tainly doesn’t cause trouble, even This would have also given the or- work, which has closed the river- motes the town. People come from though people are drinking by the ganisers time to refine their plans, front’s towpath until late August, is far and wide for the event.” river all day long. But we are already submitting all necessary licence ap- behind the decision to axe the event, The free Maidstone River Festival working on next year’s event and we plications and working with Maid- held at the end of July for the last 47 was set to include raft races, live will be back big-time.” stone’s Safety Advisory Group to years, with the occasional exception. music and an illuminated boat pa- Maidstone Council’s Matt Roberts ensure people can enjoy a safe and The River Medway Boaters say the rade, followed by fireworks. The said: “It is unfortunate that the River well-run event in the surroundings dedicated organising committee are charity raft races had already raised Festival organisers have decided not of the improved river path. frustrated by the lack of vision by the £1,500, which will be returned to the to hold the event and I am surprised “MBC is happy to provide guid- borough council, adding: “The teams that had paid the entry fee. by the comment that this is due to ance to the organisers should they council has a plan that highlights the “The festival would not have cost the towpath works; these improve- wish to arrange a date change or use of the river to promote Maid- Maidstone Borough Council any- ments will be of great benefit to res- plan a River Festival for next year.” Police cadets on parade MORE than 100 young people have new recruits. Applications for the passed their Kent Police cadet Volunteer Police Cadet Scheme training. opened last year for young people Assistant Chief Constable Tony aged between 13 to 17-years-old, Blaker and Police and Crime from all communities across Kent, Commissioner Matthew Scott including those vulnerable to crime congratulated the cadets at a and social exclusion. parade at Kent Police Training ACC Blaker and PCC Matthew School. Scott are pictured here with new Cadet ambassador, and cadets Amy Carter and Chloe Paralympian ski guide, Charlotte Newbury as well as Charlotte Evans Evans, attended to congratulate the MBE. Leaflet NEW SELL IT Distribution LOCAL Now TAKE AWAY MENU with a available Local Indian Restaurant with FREE DELIVERY Downs Mail Maidstone Open until 11pm every day Free bottle of and Malling’s beer with every No.1 Free £10 spentHandymanLocal FREE newspaper All types of renovationbuilding and gardening work

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32 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk Comment Hitting the litter louts hard MY comments about the litter disgrace £9.50 parking bill along the A249 Maidstone to Sittingbourne MailMarks road produced a lot of reader support – and I BEWARE of evening parking charges at expect most will back new moves announced DENNIS FOWLE President Fremlin’s if you are taking in a meal and a Ha- by Environment Secretary of State Andrea [email protected] zlitt show. Leadsom. I joined a Rotary club group for a 6pm pre- She told me on her recent visit to Maidstone theatre meal at Frederic’s followed by Maid- that she would really like litter louts put on stone Amateur Operatics’ Sweet Charity. pride in our country and want to avoid the display locked in stocks! She agreed this was I parked at 5.45pm and, due to a long, slow immense costs to us as taxpayers of cleaning not one to put before Parliament – but these queue at machines, could not pay until up. changes probably will: 10.50pm. The five-hour charge was a hefty £5  Fines doubled to £150. but as I missed this by five minutes my bill  Beautiful spring Drivers responsible for litter thrown was £9.50. from vehicles unless a passenger admits the I WORRY about climate change – but Had I used a Maidstone council car park the offence. enjoy some of the benefits. bill would have been £3. Lesson learned!  More bins in litter hot spots. The last two spring seasons have been  Scrap tip charges to encourage people to memorable – last year for its length from De- Simon: cancer advice dispose of litter responsibly. cember to May and this year for a magnificent  Convicted fly-tippers to pick up waste display of flowers and blossom. GOOD news for MP Helen Grant and hus- they dump. It has been such a pleasure enjoying the best band Simon after his full recovery from  Anti-litter campaign, including schools, display of daffodils I can remember, and blos- prostate cancer surgery. “to lead the fight against relentless rubbish soms have been strong and beautiful. His problem was revealed in the autumn droppers”. And now I hear of Kent wines reaching from periodical blood tests. His advice: “Act Littering is a social taboo in so many coun- very high quality and winning awards early.” tries. We must catch up if we really have a among the world’s best. Many friends echo that.

Lorry ban won’t be upheld Now we only have the volume of traffic to No solution to budget cuts deal with. I WAS delighted to read your article in Don Wright, Willington Street, Maidstone I READ Dennis Fowle’s comment piece and Downs Mail regarding a lorry being pulled he correctly laments government cuts, but up for breaking the B2163 weight restriction. without suggesting any cause or solution. I use the road regularly and it is rare that I Traffic beyond a joke He then concludes with the hope that do not see an HGV which shouldn’t be Brexit will fix all. there. WHEN are the authorities finally going to The issue this country has is that it has So, obviously, Kent Police are not do anything about Hermitage Lane? It took never supported so many retired people in enforcing the ban, possibly because of a me over 20 minutes to get to Barming its entire history. Those who are retired are squeeze on their budgets but also because station this morning, which should take less quite correctly beer cared-for than any the only place to pull the lorries in is at the than five minutes. previous generation. This causes strain My wife joked that I was being over keen entrance of Leeds Castle. elsewhere – such as roads. leaving so early – and only just made the The castle authorities are hardly going to The solution was that we were correcting train 28 minutes after I left home. This was put up with that. the population dynamics problem with a only because there was a gap in the traffic P Shor, via email steady influx of young educated EU citizens coming up from the A20 and I was able to who helped us grow the economy. Sadly, go down the outside to get to the turning. Brexit has stopped this in its tracks. The traffic was jammed from the hospital as I patiently await the current government’s Beating roadside car sales far as I could see heading towards the A20. suggested solution. YOUR readers will know that I have been So it was nothing to do with the traffic lights Paul Fitch, via email pressing Maidstone Borough Council on the for the new development there. blight of used cars for sale on the highways Coming home, the traffic towards in this area. Aylesford was even worse. It was almost at I am delighted now to say well done to a standstill, taking 10 minutes just to get out 20 years of great reading two councillors who took up the cudgels of the station – no one could turn right as I HAVE been living in Coxheath for five against the traders, and have returned the the traffic was like this right back to Heath years and always look forward to reading area to its old self. Road. the interesting articles that appear in the Gary Cooke (Kent County Council) and With North Street being closed for weeks Downs Mail. Ma Burton (Maidstone Borough Council) now at the other end of Heath Road, we will Congratulations to you and all your staff are the pair who have managed to overcome soon not be able to get out at all. Why do we on your considerable achievements over the the reluctance of others and to give back to bother employing planners and voting for first 20 years.and wishing you even more their constituents their laybys, grass verges councillors? success in the future. and roads. Thank you and well done! Kevin Reed, via email Michael Dillon, Park Way, Coxheath

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk

Roy Bennet Cliff Richard and toured the USA. around West Farleigh and was an absolute Obituaries Trevor’s teaching career started in a stalwart of the community.” ROY Bennet (85) died peacefully on holiday private school in Bristol. After teaching in Jim leaves his children, step-children, in New Zealand visiting his eldest son Paul. three schools he moved on to advisory posts, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Roy and wife Joan lived most of their starting as science advisor to Wiltshire married life in Coxheath and were well- achools. He moved locally from the post of known and respected in the village. county advisor in Somerset. Olive King Roy was a plumber and heating engineer. Trevor was married to Diana for 31 years He loved his garden and Roy and Joan OLIVE Kathleen King (90) lived locally from and father to Clare and Helena. His hobbies 1952 spending 40 years on South Street, enjoyed holidays all included choral singing; he was hoping to be over the world. Roy Barming and then moving to Allington. part of the Bath Choir’s rendition of the St She worked on local farms and on Week was also a long-serving Mahew Passion this year, but ultimately member of the darts Street. Born Olive Bowley in Dover she was the choir performed the work in his honour. raisedin that area before war service in the team at The Bell at Trevor ran wine-tasting events, was a Coxheath. WRNS took her to cyclist who enjoyed group rides, played golf Suon in Surrey and to Roy grew up in at Tudor Park and was involved with the Twickenham and Portsmouth. Her work Holy Cross Church in Bearsted. taking telegraph Whion Dene in Diana Sandford said: “Trevor was a man Middlesex. He met messages to ships led of integrity, a highly-proficient organiser; a to her meeting her Joan in Guernsey after logical, articulate, wiy, entertaining and the war and the couple spent 70 years husband Bob. The resilient character.” couple were married together, bringing up children Paul, Alan, Trevor leaves his wife and daughters. Peter and Neil. for 46 years, raising Roy was widowed in August 2016. Alan daughters Trisha and said of his parents: “All of the family are Jim Patch Jennie. greatly appreciative of the wonderful long Trisha said: “My mother worked on life they spent together and the love they JAMES Douglas “Jim” Patch (97) lived at Croucher’s farms sorting apples and later in had for all of us.” Tutsham, near West Farleigh, from 1980, Hilton’s shoe shop on Week Street. She Roy leaves three sons – son Peter pre- worked in a national role for the Post Office loved walking with my father. People will deceased him – and grandchildren and great and had a fine war service record, including remember her as fun-loving and amiable. grandchildren Paul, Karen Robbie, Alan, ground-breaking and daring operations. Her family will remember her as a loving Lesley, Laura, Nicky Ian, Evie Sam and Leo, He moved to the Maidstone area when he mother and grandmother.” Neil, Theresa, Katie, John and George, retired from his work as assistant controller Olive was widowed in 1997 and Simon, and Emma, Michael and Thomas. At of the Post Office’s Investigation Branch. His subsequently spent a lot of time with her his funeral service, the family also work involved widowed sister, Joyce. Olive leaves her remembered other absent members. detecting fraud and daughters, grandsons Steve and Mike, crime. granddaughters Hollie and Rosie and has Jim served as one great-granddaughter on the way. Trevor Sandford secretary to the local parish council, TREVOR Sandford (64) from Bearsted, supported the local Jean Brownlow served as deputy director of education for bird sanctuary and Kent. JEAN Brownlow (78) lived locally her whole enjoyed wood-carving, life, most recently on College Walk, and was He began work in the post in 1998, producing work for moving to Bearsted soon after. He later took a champion ladies darts player. Teston Church. Born Jean Beautridge in Maidstone she on a freelance role with the Department of Twice married, Jim had sons Nigel and Education in London aended Vinters School and began work for Martin with his first wife Jean. After her Printway on the site now occupied by and also worked for death, he met his second wife, Frances, on a the Learning and Skills Clark’s furniture store. Jean was also a train and became step-father to her son Tim member of the Territorial Army for a Council (a role that and daughters Pat and Nicole. involved working with number of years. She met and married Colin Jim cared for Frances for four years after Brownlow and raised children David, Angie leading politicians she suffered a stroke, but was eventually including Ed Balls and and Debbie and worked for many years on widowed. During his war service, Jim was Alan Firmin’s farms. Michael Gove). mentioned in dispatches and was a member Born in Northern Jean was a local singles darts champion of the Long Range Desert Group; a and a newspaper dubbed her “The Queen of Ireland, Trevor earned forerunner of the SAS. a degree in physics the Arrows”. As a prisoner of war, Jim escaped from a Debbie said: “My mother was very from the University of Cambridge and went moving train using a hacksaw blade sewn on to a PGCE. sociable, open-minded and friendly. She and into a lapel, a compass hidden in a uniform my father were married for over 50 years. His first job was as a bassist, singer and buon and a silk map sewn into his beret. songwriter with the Water into Wine Band, a She was a loving mother and grandmother.” He made his way to Yugoslavia where he Jean – who was widowed around five leading Christian folk rock outfit who joined the resistance. released two albums in the 1970s, supported years ago – leaves her children and Nigel said: “My father loved his life grandchildren Keaton, Rebecca and Alex. Camrass Wills Don Nichols MEMBERS of East Farleigh parish church Advice you can trust are mourning the death of Don Nichols (90) on Good Friday, two days after joining his Do you want help writing your Will? Do you need help with probate? wife Doreen in a nursing home. Do you need powers of attorney? Do you want to buy a funeral plan? A talented gardener and prize-winning orchid grower he was generous to the • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed church in supplying flowers for the bigger festivals. He would regularly be seen cuing For a free initial consultation contact: Peter Camrass DipPFS MSWW grass and tending to the large churchyard with its splendid views over the Medway. 01622 720985 Don and Doreen always ran a stall at coffee www.camrasswills.co.uk mornings etc.

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Overhanging branches Cllr Webb said Sports field It was agreed to accept the

aihCouncils Parish Boughton Malherbe overhanging branches were rubbing on the quote for the annual tree safety audit from Laughing gas Borough Cllr Shellina roof of the Allcars garage. It was agreed TreeCycle, but not to tag the trees. Prendergast said that fly-tipping along all that any branches overhanging the Following the latest safety report by Cllr roads and verges was a serious issue and it boundary could be cut back by the owners Davies, the clerk had removed the was important to write to Alison Broom, of Allcars. remaining goal net. One of the safety gates chief executive at Maidstone Council, Computer The ongoing parish computer into the play area was not closing. copied to Helen Whately MP. Laughing problems were discussed and it was Village hall An invitation had been gas cylinders had been tipped in Headcorn suggested that a new PC might be received from the village hall commiee to Road, from Hillside into Eastwood Road. required. Cllr Waring agreed to discuss this discuss parish council office space. The She agreed to write an article about this for with Tim Waring. summer fete would be taking place on Malherbe Monthly. Annual audit The external auditor had July 1. Insurance Cllr Prendergast said that advised that the date for submiing the Pensioners’ outing This had been insurance for lier picking organised by annual return was no later that June 12 and provisionally booked for November 21. parish councils was an issue. Other the final internal audit was scheduled for councils had found they were not covered May 4. It was planned that the annual by insurance, as at Ulcombe. The chairman return would be ready for approval at the Coxheath would contact Alison Broom, copied to meeting on May 8. Helen Whately, and Ulcombe Parish Vacancy Gordon Down was co-opted to fill Council about this. the one remaining vacancy. The parish Thanks The chairman thanked Jenny Broomfield and Kingswood council now has a full complement of 13 While for all her help and support over parish councillors. the past 10 years as she was not seeking re- Dog waste bins Borough Cllr Gill Fort had PCSO Jasmine Pay was appointed as the election to KCC in May. arranged to get a bin installed at the sports new PCSO for Coxheath and was expected Police report Two thefts had been field. There was an offer to install to take up her duties fully during May. reported. additional bins around the parish, which Neighbourhood plan This was discussed Community warden report Volunteers would be collected free, but the cost of in the light of a recent meeting with MBC. were sought to help senior citizens with purchase and installation would be down Much of the content had been overtaken by computer skills. to the parish council. The clerk was asked conflicting elements within the emerging Road names All names suggested for to make further enquiries about additional Maidstone Local Plan. A final decision on Boughton Park were not considered to be installations. whether to pursue the plan would be taken appropriate and there was no enthusiasm M20 resurfacing Residents asked for the later in the year. for two roads with different names. It was support of the parish council to lobby Village improvements Meetings were to agreed that the best compromise was to Highways England to provide resurfacing be held with MBC and KCC Highways call the whole development Boughton Park to reduce noise levels. The clerk was asked about possible improvements to the village and simply give the house/office numbers to ask neighbouring parishes about centre. on the road name signs, eg Boughton Park petitions and to write to MP Helen Linden Farm Representatives of the parish 1-14. This would make the location and Whately. council and village hall management postcode the same as the old garden centre. Police report Farm buildings had been commiee were due to meet to discuss the The numbering would have to be adjusted burgled in Duck Pond Lane, and a shed housing development at Linden Farm, off which was up to the developer. had been burgled in Lenham Road, where Stocke Lane. Finger post An estimate for £2,112 plus a padlock, generator and lawnmower had Bus shelter The clerk would be meeting a VAT from Duke Contractors Ltd had been been stolen. There had been accidents in contractor to assess and cost repairs to the received for the replacement finger post on Lenham Road and Broomfield Road. Cllr brick bus shelter in Heath Road. the village green. This would be referred to Milton said a considerable number of tyres Recreation ground Undergrowth clearance an extraordinary parish council meeting as had been dumped in Charlton Lane. and coppicing was being undertaken by soon as possible as it was more than £1,000, Handyman Despite leaving several phone Conservation Landscape Services at the beyond which a competitive tendering messages, the clerk had been unable to recreation ground off Linden Road. process was required. contact a recently- appointed handyman, Bin Gavin Reece would be asked to fix the whose employment was subject to an replacement bin outside the church. insurance policy. It was resolved that the East Farleigh clerk would write, if an address could be Defibrillator The parish council agreed to found, and terminate the provisional offer take this forward. The clerk would pursue Chart Suon of employment. Paul Beaney had expressed the maer with KALC. The Old School an interest in the handyman work and it Police report PCSO Gardener said there Hall was considered as a possible site. was agreed that he should take over the Members’ issues The parish council had been two crimes: a burglary in Chart role subject to insurance cover. Hill Road and a non-domestic burglary in agreed that using the club for meetings was Neighbourhood Plan It was concluded not going to be practical. However, Cllrs Plough Wents Road. He advised that there that there was no further action that could had been a spate of trailer thefts locally. David Hussein and John Wilson would talk be taken to advance the plan. Cllr Hoy to Bill Simpson about marketing the club’s Cllr Webb reported a burnt-out car in proposed that the clerk write to MBC to Green Lane. business. express disappointment at the outcome of Village car park The parish council had Annual parish meeting Members noted five years work. It was felt the lack of that Mary Underdown had agreed to serve received £250 from Tesco’s insurance support from MBC was a main company for the gate damaged by the the refreshments. The annual report was contributing factor to the failure of the noted. delivery van. The council was still waiting plan. for a dry period to paint the white lines. Chairman’s report The chairman reported Peter Pease Close A rental property had on the fly-tipping at the Memorial Playing Following an inspection, potholes had been become available and once again, found. It was agreed that Cllr Peter Beasley Field, which was still to be cleared by applicants on the parish council register of Maidstone Borough Council (MBC). Cllr could buy the limestone needed to do the interest had not been offered the tenancy. job. The code on the padlock had been Forknall had spoken to some parents A shared ownership property was due to whose children were using the play area, changed after someone used the car park become available and the clerk had overnight. and they said they liked the new play area contacted names on the register and surface. Bridge working party The bridge circulated the vacancy. An Orbit officer had feasibility study draft report from DHA Fly-tipping Cllr Waring asked the clerk to suggested councillors reconsider the S106 find out about instances of fly-tipping in was discussed and it was agreed that the agreement which only permits people with current width restriction on the bridge the last four years to see if it had gone up a proven local connection to live in PPC since the restrictions were put in place at should remain and the reference to writing properties. to supermarkets about their delivery vans the tip. Pre-school Cllr Friend said Kingswood Speedwatch Cllr Underdown had agreed be removed. Pre-school was no further forward in Horse trough The clerk would write to to continue with Speedwatch as the process finding alternative premises to allow them of sending the data had been simplified. Gordon Newton at The Stone Shop to open five days a week. to chase up his quote for the 38

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Continued from page 36 to the PCSO areas in the borough. A new Arriva Resident Carol Funnell spoke about aihCouncils Parish replacement headpiece on the horse trough. PCSO was expected to join in April. the changes to the Arriva bus timetable. Footpaths KCC was not prepared to Various incidents, mainly at the King The clerk was to check if the 66 service remove the asbestos on KM37 as it was not George V playing field, were discussed at would run through Nelestead. The parish blocking the path. The clerk would contact length. The parish council is concerned council would contact neighbouring environmental health officers. about the use of catapults and air guns. parishes affected by the changes and Play areas The March report was received. PCSO Muir was investigating the would contact Arriva. The chairman The container on the recreation field was possibility of a camera in Walnut Tree suggested that residents affected by the discussed and it was felt to be in a Avenue. The parish had wrien to the changes also wrote to Arriva to complain. dangerous state. The clerk would write to police, asking for a number of antisocial Village hall Further fundraising events the owners, West Farleigh Youth Football incidents to be regarded as serious were being considered and the commiee Club, recommending it is not used. It was maers. A reply was awaited. was moving forward with the renovation agreed that two councillors would check Community warden Theft from vehicles of the kitchen. on the work of Pearsons Landscapes each and shed burglaries had been reported. Dog bins The new comingle dog bin had week on a rota basis. The warden was teaming up with the been installed at the boom of the steps at History booklet Copies of this had been Coxheath community warden and PCSO the KGV Field. The clerk was asked to deposited at Maidstone Borough Council, to see if both parishes could work together place a notice on the parish council-owned Maidstone library and Coxheath library. on anti-social behaviour maers. bin to say “Lier only – no dog waste”. SpeedWatch A new rota would be Bins It was likely that the parish council Play surface The clerk had received quotes produced soon and Cllr Richard Webb would have to pay for the emptying of of £6,960 + vat and £7,200 + vat. A third would be aending in future. bins at the King George V playing field. quote had been requested but this had not Fete The date had been set for June 24 and Parking A resident had complained about yet arrived. It was agreed to accept the it was agreed that it would be a daytime inconsiderate parking in Hanson Drive lower quote and the clerk would seek a event, rather than an early evening one. during school runs. start date for the work. The clerk had also Broadband The council heard that work Gardens An anonymous leer had been sought a quote from All Seasons Grounds should be completed by the summer. sent from concerned residents of Maintenance to make good the areas where Website This was about to be switched to a Hubbards Lane about two gardens which the wet pour had been removed and was new Wordpress system. If the clerk could were in a terrible state with various not being replaced. not manage the amount of work, the parish rubbish. It was understood that this had Cable ride The seat on the cable ride had council would look for a volunteer with the been taken forward by Golding Homes. been damaged again, two weeks after it necessary expertise. Street names The parish council had had been replaced. The clerk had enquired Annual parish meeting It was agreed not suggested Iron Age Close and Roy Hood whether a dog-proof seat was available but to invite the mayor or a speaker The clerk Way to the borough council for two new this was not an option. Playquest would fit would organise catering and invitations. developments at Hubbards Lane. a second-hand seat when they were next in Developers had already suggested two the area. The clerk would monitor this and names – types of cherries, as the land was members suggested a sign asking people Langley originally a cherry orchard. These were not to let their dogs chew the seat. Noticeboard The clerk had received the Community warden Dawn Riach-Brown Penny Close and Summersun Court. insurance claim of £500 from Ageas continued to carry out welfare visits to the Well Street Regarding the proposed Insurance Company and the parish council elderly and vulnerable. development at Forstal Lane in Coxheath would look at sites in Nelestead Green for Police report No crimes had been parish, a planning application had not yet a new noticeboard. The most obvious place reported. been submied. Terry McKeown, of Loose would be the Hop Pole pub. Planters The two planters had been placed Amenities Association, spoke about an Hedges and verges Cllr Salter said the at the corner of Ulcombe Road and Leeds option of Well Street being blocked off to footpath from the boom of Gibbs Hill Road. Cllr Knowles was thanked for her through traffic. It was reported that some through to Nelestead Green had been input in placing these and planting them members of the public would be happy to cleared and looked much beer. up into a colourful display. accept the inconvenience of driving the Defibrillator The chairman said the village Coffee mornings The Village hall long way round, via Stocke Lane, and hall commiee was happy to have a management commiee had agreed to hire that this would alleviate gridlock in the defibrillator at the village hall, but felt the the hall to the parish council for £7 an hour village of Loose. A resident in Well Street best location was on the outside wall. for the monthly coffee morning on the first was trying to gather a petition and this Wednesday of the month, starting on May would passed to the group to take 3 from 10.15am to 11.45am. forward. The chairman said that all Staplehurst Verge An email had been received from a residents in Loose needed to be consulted. resident regarding the ownership of the Brooks Field shed Loose Amenities Parish surgery Subjects raised were the verge at the corner of Leeds/Ulcombe Road Association had agreed to the shed proposed Post Office relocation, and a and who was maintaining it. The clerk removal and would be given six months reduced amount of amenity land informed the council that discussions with from the expiration of the lease to remove associated with the land south of Henhurst Kent Highways about ownership had their equipment. It was likely that Farm site in the MBC Local Plan. proved inconclusive. It was agreed to planning permission would be needed for Clerk’s report The clerk thanked the contact Kent Highways again, and also the group to locate a store in the valley deputy caretaker for covering for the Steve Waring, to see what the cost would and also for the council to demolish the village caretaker during his leave. He be associated with mowing this during the shed. The hole in the fence with Tylers reported that draft year-end financial summer months as an interim measure. would be filled with a close-boarded fence statements were almost complete and Lier picking It was resolved to fund the panel. thanked the retiring responsible finance cost of lier picking equipment if sufficient officer for her guidance during the interest was shown in starting a local handover of duties to the deputy clerk. He group. Nelestead also reported he was arranging for servicing of the Stryker CCTV cameras. He Annual parish meeting The village hall Flood group Tina Freedman reported that had been booked for Wednesday, May 10. had completed agreements for use of the two projects had come from the meetings. library premises for parish surgeries and Refreshments would be served at 8pm in The first was a proposal from the the commiee room before the meeting training. He was in continuing discussion Environment Agency (EA) to address with KCC about a funding agreement for starting in the main hall at 8.45pm. property resilience and to carry out a Phone box The Shepherds Way/ Heath the community warden’s Men’s Shed survey for the at risk properties. Tina asked project. Further to the parish council’s Road surface was uneven following how many properties were at risk in removal of the BT phone box. decision to book two stalls at Staplehurst Nelestead – more than seven properties Fete, he asked councillors for ideas about had flooded in 2013 – five on Hampstead the stalls’ content. Loose Lane and two next to Wateringbury bridge. Wimpey Field Cllr Peter Spearink In the second project, Arcadis was looking discussed his report titled Disposal of Police report PCSO Doug Muir would be at various measures on behalf of Wood and Vegetation. Councillors transferred from Loose, through changes Maidstone Borough Council (MBC). 47

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 41 Classified downsmail.co.uk Skip Hire Skip Hire continued

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 43 Window Services continued Access Denied Legal Notice

Double Glazing Repairs ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH (deceased) This notice is being posted by the executors of Mr Alan Shuttleworth (deceased) late of 20, Mayfair Avenue, Maidstone, Kent and also of 2, Crittenden Cottages, Gailants Lane, Maidstone, Kent, and latterly of 84, Knight & Locksmith Services Crescent, Middleton in Manchester. Alan Shuttleworth was a former member and Troop Leader of the 25th Lanarkshire (6th Motherwell) Boy Scouts • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock and of ‘T Troop’ Loose Swiss Scout Group. • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units PURSUANT to the Trustee Act 1925 section 27 NOTICE IS GIVEN to all creditors and others having any claims • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Letterboxes against or claiming to be beneficially interested in the estate of ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH. ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH died on the 10th February 2014 and his will was proved in the District Registry of the • Patio doors, runners & rollers High Court by the executors named within it. All creditors and others having any claims against or claiming to be beneficially interested on the estate of ALAN SHUTTLEWORTH are required to send particulars of their claim in writing to the undersigned solicitors, 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Stephensons Solicitors LLP, whose address is 1st Floor, Sefton House, Northgate Close, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6PQ (Reference AJG/S73475.3). All correspondence should be marked for the attention of Mr A Gregory and should be Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ sent to those solicitors within a three month period after the date of this advertisement. If no further claims against the estate are intimated within the specified period of 3 months from the date of the advertisement the Executors will proceed to distribute the assets of the deceased among the persons entitled to them having regard only to the claims of which they have notice and shall not be liable for the assets of the deceased or any part of them so distributed to Health Find your any person or persons of whose claims or d emands they have not had notice of.” & Beauty favourite MOBILE tradesperson online On the Road HAIRDRESSER 30 years Business Directory Experience www.downsmail.co.uk 07961 746749 Connecting with local people Recruitment

Come and join our friendly sales Four editions delivered to over 88,000 hom

team and share in our success. Malling Edition es every month dow nsmail.c o.uk Maids tone Tow Maidstone n | M & M aidst No. 1 alling’s THE K one E newspaper ent Co ast joyed unty S | M fine how en aids bump weath - tone er cro er an So F grou wds at d uth | M REE nds in the sho a M Detling w- lling ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 July last r 3,000 201 year, a up on 6 N We are currently recruiting a the ttende o. 23 co d o 1 unty’s ne of Co bigges N mpetit t even ews and ors, sta ts. busine llholde acr sses ca rs oss th me fro Be th e coun m tter e usua try but bus l big lo had PAREN es ca Amo cal pre TS are ll ng tho sence. bette urgin Shan,o se were r scho g actio f Stap Jo Kin ol bus n to g Ken lehurs gs Hill servic et Shelton t, and M and W es from bot , of Ay alling. est h pictu lesford rep red, wh , resente o  Fuc d the M 3 hsia G id Ken Ph ha roup.K t one b s been en said oxe sh a won : “It VILLA s sa ow.” derful GERS h ved  ways ave co Mo of reta me up re pict red p ining t with page 1 ures, s hone heir 6 ee boxes. 4 An e arly Ch Media Sales CHILD rist m chorist as are rec ors in M ording erewo Bridging the gap to tive so a CD o rth ngs f fe in Oct s- ober. 5 Pla ygroun KING d an S Hill ger wer residen business prosperity e misle ts say d th plann about a ey ed new play a TRA rea.  DERS Pe 6 n and h tition a ew r om AN gai Executive oad e ow outdo nst g b n or y ridg ers i has gym i m ing n e ac n Sn been d n Leyb ew ross odla a w ismiss ourne pros the R nd a aste o ed as Tha perit iver re he f mone t is the y to Med adin y.  ness p predic the wa g fo 12 eople tion of town y set r a b the and co local b . to o ona Joe route uncill usi- pen nza ’s d ou linkin ors wh peop wit with ash tskirts g the o say le are hin w a THE la for c ho of th A228 trade looki eek st pub ash mes e tow on the boom ng for s, b for a in Dit m on the n an ing when ward ring- new le ton loo ean a oppo d new across traffic to a an o ase of ks set n incr site ba A the br starts start ffice b life as house ease i nk w mong idge. flow- my ow lock. prices n busi ill them was n bus Th . ness a is ha one of iness.  e £19 nd irdres Sno the m The b Ob 2 whi milli M ser Al dland ain re ridge itua 8 ch is d on ro ackint ex ex to op asons ries to sell advertising across our ha ue to ad b t osh (p pandi en a b I chose s be ope ridg ure ic- ng arb  en bu n in S e, d left The and up er’s. It 3 port, ilt by eptem ope ) wh re are and c ’s an Com 2 as the devel ber, ned h o up lots of oming men 1,00 key t oper T A is salo all ar new area. t 0 hom o Pete ren- lexand n th ound houses  eas e new rs Vill t er’s in ey fini the a going 3 t bank comm age, a own’s the p sh the rea, an C 4 near W unity H eople bridge d onc rim With S ould on the Street igh will co , I thin e e Rep b nodla ham. s of the me ov k a lot orts enefit nd alre mont even river er from of  of a ady fe hs ag conv becau that s ROOF 4 which high- eling caus o be- enient se it w ide lead 3 start speed the s e of th put for t ill be stol and co ed a y rail hoppe ipa e anti Snodl hem. I very en fro pper w ear ag link, rs and ted i c- and o t will m a ho ere o, bus He comm nflux After n the m really use in iness said: “ uters of h recent ap.” Ayles publications and online products. ber’s I was . am w ly mov ford. in ma ith ing Tonbr naging look wife, K to Wo idge b a bar ing fo atie, uld- ut I w - ing rward Alex i anted to sho to the s also to co rten h bridge mmut is dail open- e. y work SAPPHIRE CARS 01622 663000 P 8 YOUR L olic 01 OCA A e to Insi 622 L PR FORM p de th 6 OPER f ER M ulp is edit 90 TY EX icer i etropo it NE ion: 29 maidstone@mPER s the litan P W bu 0 T Mallin new olice M ilding 2 g, Tes vicar of- alling a prop 3 Pudd artinco.com Rev N ton an at E b re bein osals ing La ick W d Wate ast ridge a g draw for ne • M with illiam ringb nd Ma n up a aidsto two s s, who ury. on its e lling C s Ton- ne • Ke po ons, w is ma mergi ounci nt st in O ill sta rried four- ng Loc l works th ctobe rt in h page s al Plan Kent’s M e vica r and is new Act upplem . See th rage in live in ion Par ent b e East M pe tnershi y Malli You will be working on the best ost Awarded Opticianalling  ople, b p, whic ng . 5 usin h su the 1 esses pports Maidstones Local Private Hire Company 1 a Book Now 01732 617557 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Mallin g area. www .optom etrist publications serving the local community s.co.uk and enjoy a working environment that www.sapphire-cars.com

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44 Maidstone Weald May 2017 On the Road

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Maidstone Weald May 2017 45 On the Road

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46 Maidstone Weald May 2017 downsmail.co.uk

Continued from page 38 frequently or that the dog bin be replaced. burglary and a theft of heating oil, both in noted that Cllr Spearink was in contact with Harbour play area The first goal post was Lower Road. There had also been trailer and Councils Parish Medway Valley Countryside Partnership slightly loose – the contractor had dealt with tractor thefts in surrounding parishes and about the possibility of learning how to this. residents should be vigilant. create “dead hedges”. Cllr Spearink would Roads and transport A request for signs at Planning Members of the public raised report back on the subject, including the the junction of South Lane and the A274 was concerns about an application for a new feasibility of running a training session being progressed. Lier picking needed dwelling on the site of existing garages and costing £225. Councillors resolved to spend doing on the A274 from Suon Valence Hill hardstanding at The Hollow, Charlton Lane. up to £100 on rakes and post-hole tools. to Heniker Lane. A kerb stone was The parish council asked for the application Development Cllr Buller reported that the dislodged on South Lane. A tree was across to be refused, and if the planning officer’s Cranbrook and Sissinghurst Neighbourhood the footpath on Headcorn Road. view differed, for it to go before the Plan team had welcomed the visit by Crime report Food had been stolen from the planning commiee. Staplehurst representatives. The team was primary school. A door had been damaged Potholes Cllr Swan reported potholes in reviewing sites submied to Tunbridge in an aempt to break into a shed in South Ewell Lane and Lower Road. One was Wells Council as potential development Lane; garden ornaments had been stolen in around eight inches deep. Boyton Court Road. A report of bad driving areas. She highlighted that development in Sign Cllr Sco reported that the Kent on the Staplehurst Road had led to a report the areas would generate more traffic Highways sign by the Tickled Trout for of assault. A padlock and fence had been through Staplehurst, particularly to the Teston Bridge was incorrect. It read that the damaged in an aempt to steal a carriage station, which supported a case for some bridge was unsuitable for HGVs, however part of relevant developer contributions from a barn in Headcorn Road; there had this should say No Vehicles Over 6’6”. It was benefiting Staplehurst. been a collision in Chartway Street; and an noted that it should be the same as the sign PCSO’s report There had been six crimes – officer went to a report of nuisance bikes by on the Teston side of the bridge. three burglaries, one theft and two criminal The Harbour, but there was no sign of bikes. Speedwatch Cllr Stockwell had completed a damage. course and the booking of equipment must Ulcombe now be arranged online. To be an authorised user he also needed to complete online Suon Valence Lorries Road signs saying Unsuitable for training. The Speedwatch co-ordinator HGVs would be installed at the Wents Slide event The clerk had received three would view various possible areas including crossroads for Ulcombe Hill and at the emails complaining about the plan to host Charlton lane, Village Green, by the Tickled Grafty Green end of Eastwood Road. the QHOF slide event in South Lane, closing Trout, and Lower Green in the 40mph zone. off access to the houses at the top of South Lenham Road traffic survey Kent Highways confirmed that a meeting would Grounds maintenance The clerk had Lane and The Pla. A representative of contacted three companies to quote for the QHOF and an objector addressed the take place to discuss the survey results. contract in the village. The cheapest of the meeting. Nothing had been agreed and the Pye Corner drainage Kent Highways had three was awarded the three-year contract concerns would be discussed with the inspected the situation and would be which would run from April 2017. commiee. taking action. Annual parish meeting This is on May 15 at Tree survey A quote of £380 had been Jubilee Corner Large logs would be placed 8pm, following the bi-monthly parish received for a survey by Tree Cycle, a around the island to protect the 200-year- company which had been recommended by old oak trees from vehicles. council meeting at the earlier time of several parish councils. It was agreed to Coffee and information It was agreed that 6.30pm.The council and village accept this quote and for the clerk to ask the Action with Communities in Rural organisations’ reports would be in a booklet whether any trees needed a preservation Kent Coffee and Information Project van and refreshments to the value of £40 would order. would visit The Harrow car park monthly, be served afterwards. Village sign The sign had been reported as starting on Tuesday, May 16, between Gym Cllr Stockwell asked whether a grant unstable. A contractor did a survey and 10am and noon. Free tea, coffee and cakes could be applied for to purchase gym although it was moving it was not will be offered. equipment for the green and County Cllr dangerous. The contractor would dig out the Local Plan Notification of the Maidstone Paulina Stockell confirmed that she would concrete this week and check the base of the Council Local Plan consultation on the be happy to support this. post. If it was satisfactory, it would be proposed main modifications had been Bulbs Cllr Swan congratulated villagers concreted in. The clerk agreed a verbal received. The closing date for comments is who had planted bulbs on the kerbside – estimate of £100. Friday, May 19 at 5pm. they looked lovely. War memorial play area An Arris rail was Play area It was agreed to explore the Lambing Day The coffee morning held at broken and the wooden ladder on the funding options for any upgrade. the Lambing day had been hugely successful multiplay was roen at ground level. All and thanks went to Geoff, Candy and Ollie was low risk or satisfactory. The clerk had for arranging the day, and to all those who sent MBC photos of the rubbish around the West Farleigh donated cakes. bins and asked that they be emptied more Crime report There had been two crimes – a Website The website had now gone live.

FENCING was damaged outside a house in reports Crime Bottlescrew Hill, Boughton Monchelsea. Watch The top of a garden wall was damaged in Neighbourhood Heath Road, Coxheath. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police A green Motis 53 lawnmower with a Working to reduce crime. missing hub cap was taken from a garden shed in Heath Road, Boughton Lane, Coxheath. tempted break-in. The culprits were dis- Monchelsea. Telephone cables under a hatch in the turbed by a neighbour. A vehicles was taken without consent in road were cut in Mill Bank, Headcorn. Outbuildings and CCTV on an airstrip at Park Lane, Boughton Monchelsea. A house in East Sutton Road, East Sutton Linton Hill, Linton, were damaged. A list A tyre on a Peugeot car was slashed in was broken into and items removed from of stolen property as awaited. Stockett Lane, Coxheath. the garden. Someone set a garden shed alight in Mill An Ifor Williams horsebox trailer was Bank, Headcorn. The intruders were dis- stolen from a paddock in Dean Street, East turbed by the alarm being activated. Farleigh. PROTECT In Chart Sutton, a house in Chart Hill In Redwall Lane, Linton, a container on Road was broken into and computer items club premises was broken into and power YOUR HOME tools, including three Makita drills, a De- were stolen, including an iPad, Samsung ALARMS FROM walt drill, a Husqvarna strimmer and three +VAT Galaxy tablet, Dell PC and Samsung mobile £495 wheelbarrows were stolen. phone. A vehicle parked in Huntington Road, ALARMS & SECURITY LTD Both number plates were stolen from a Coxheath, had the lock damaged in an at- 01622 880751 Nissan Almera parked in the road in Vanity

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