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Maidstone East Edition & Malling’s No. 1 newspaper

Maidstone Edition FREEdownsmail.co.uk Maidstone & Malling’s October 2017 No. 246 No. 1 newspaper NewsFREE Panto ahoy! Kate, 107, dies MarchTHE cast 2019 of Cinderella, which is to be No. 263 KATE Hart, a resident at an old staged at the Hazlitt Theatre in Maid- people’s home in , stone, took to the River Medway to has died aged 107, her son 3 launch this year's panto. NDavidew shas disclosed. On board The Kentish Lady were national treasure Rustie Lee (Fairy Legion back in force VGodmother),il lformera EastEnderge Ste- medical centre MP’s Local Plan bid fan Booth (Prince Charming), Eliza- THELENHE RB LWhately’s Mard easkedn bra thench beth Bright (Cinderella), Craig mgovernmentakes a com toeb haltack thewith Anderson (Buttons) and, pictured, bborough’sumper re chousingruitmen scheme.t drive. 34 Stephen Richards and Adam Bor- ‘zones (Uglyti Sisters)ll . two years away’ GP services merge They were greeted by pupils from Plans for Dr Nigel South Borough Primary School and A GP crisis forces a merger of A NEW medical centre designed to relieve pressure on hard-pressed THE widow of GP Dr Nigel Minnet members of the media. The panto services in Langley and will walk the Grand 10 runs from December 1-31. For tick- Sutton Valence. surgeries will not be completed for at least another two years. Canyon for charity. 12 ets go to www.hazlitttheatre.co.uk. Parish councillors heard work would employ 30 doctors, nurses because the NHS argued it could had yet to start on the complex and administrative staff, with 10 be completed in a shorter time Tax on empty homes south of Heath Road, Linton, de- consulting rooms, five nurse treat- frame, say councillors. HJasonOMEOW DonovanNERS could fa cdatee an spite planning permission being ment rooms, a pharmacy and a Parish councillor Richard Webb eTHEmp tformery hom Neighbourses penalty star if t hbringsey granted in September. minor operations room. said there had been considerable chisan shownot s etoll thethe Hazlittir Plans laid before Maidstone Bor- Crucially, the proposal trumped disquiet in the village when the pTheatreroperti enexts . May. 2181 CCTVough Council said the facility riva calll plans at Clock Hous ine Farm new c aentre wa bids mooted because, unlike the existing Greensands and Rat-run frustration Orchard surgeries it is designed to VILLAGE anger as frustrated replace, it would be away from the motorists turn narrow country centre of Coxheath and inside a lanes into congested neighbouring parish’s boundary. to stop fly-tipping rat-runs 25 “However, with existing practices CALLS for the installation of CCTV cameras to preventclose tofly-tipping capacity for pat onient anum- bers, the proposal seemed like the Obituaries 31 country road have been made by the local boroughq councillor.uickest of the two to get up and Burberry Lane, near Leeds and nearby, more than a year after it unlicensedrunning,” he waste said. carriers, but be- Parish Councils 32-37 Broomfield, has been targeted by was dumped and set on fire. lieves“Pla thennin costg top smallermiss firmsion ofw dis-as waste dumpers for years, but in re- The church car park has also seen posinggranted oftow constructionards the end o wastef last y atear a KObituariesENT Fire and Rescue Servic e h32ad cent months, the problem has be- many instances of illegal dumping. transferand there station had be isen proving meeting as deter-to fi- inspected 70%of ’s fire come more acute. But it is a problem in many rural rentnalise that det isail costings like tre councilse plantin more.g and hParishydrants; CouncilsEast Farleig h 34-35Parish Construction waste, rubble, hard areas including Langley, lanCllrdsca Fortping.made We ex herpecte remarksd work t aso Council considered reports of core, windows and household fur- and Kingswood. Water Lane in onebe w ofellthe und borough’serway by closestnow, so trans- this hASHorse diebacks using has p ubeenblic discoveredfootpaths in; niture is left illegally – often strewn Bearsted and Pilgrims Way have ferhas c stationsome as a at su Northrprise.” Farm, Tun- SMonkspeedw at Meadowch was to b ine coDetlingnsulted; in the middle of the road. also been targeted recently. bridgeThe Wells,timesca announcedle for com itp willletio ben aHollingbournebout high-powevillagered car s feteraci n stall-g in Cllr Gill Fort said: “Every month Last year, Maidstone Borough closedcame to for lig 10ht weeks.when Cllr Webb con- Cholderhart S co-ordinatorutton; P Jeanolice iDuffynvited has to resigned; yellow lines are needed weF arelo havingwe toilets,rs h sinksera andldCouncil th clearede sp 911r casesin ofg fly-tip- tacSheted t added:he schem “Ife’s you arch goitec alongts, DH theA hold surgery on anti-social behav- for Buffkyn Way, Otham, to allow construction waste dumped in the ping and this year more than 163 linePlan ofnin increasingg, at the be fines,hest o theyf the haveparish to iour in Marden; calls for a defibril- SPRING arrived early in February as the borough basked in unseasonal buses through Imperial Park; rub- village, specifically in Burberry have been recorded since April. becoun enforced.cil. He w Aas reductiontold the p inroje thect lator in Coxheath village centre. temperatures. The last week of the month saw the mercury hit a day- bish bins in the sports field in Lane, where we are now thinking The approaching darker evenings chargewould t orak offeringe about t itwo free yea mayrs – p haveos- time high of 18 degrees – twice the average for the time of year. Sky- Kingswood are to be moved over to of installing cameras on private will prompt a rise in illegal tipping. thesibly desired longer similar if there effect.” were “build- larks were heard over the Weald and spring flowers, like these daffodils Ctheri mpicnice R areaep oandrt srear exit. 37 land,capt tour overseeed by a r theead problemer at Sutt area.”on ValenceCllrWa Fortr Mem welcomedorial, start ae jointd mak initia-ing ouAt”three-monthly issues. litter pick on the Aan recentappear eventance. in Burberry Lane tive by the Environment Agency mile-longDHA Pla stretchnning’s ofCh roadris Ha throughwkins, ACrime FORD TReportsransit wa s s t o l en 35in saw a caravan burned out while a and the Driver and Vehicle Stan- Leedswho w villagerote the produces letter, to anld D averageowns ; the body of an ex- torched car remains on a footpath dards Agency to clamp down on 32Ma blackil thatsacks build ofing rubbish. the centre, com- cVEHICLESavator wa haves sto le beenn in C drivenoxhea overth; binCllred w Fort,ith th whoe m e alsorger servesof the t asw o a Pfarmlandlants we re in t akLenham,en from acausing com- parishexistin g councillor,practices w saysas a c teachingomplex mdamgeercial b tou ild crops;ing in an L o attemptedose; the childrenprocess. about“It m asocialy be responsibilityquicker,” he bbreak-inonnet, fwasron treported and rad inia Detlingtor of a; a andsaid .the “B issueut th ofe dlitterocto inrs schoolswill ne willed Vvehicleivaro wasvan vandalised were s into lBearsteden in helptime ttakeo get thethe irissue duck offs in thea ro wstreets., and SRd,tap lWeaveringehurst; a w;o o pumpkinsd chipper w wereas Sheallo wbelievesing 18 mwithont heverys for householda build of tstolenaken fro fromm a anba rn allotment in Sutt on in YOUR LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERT receivingthis size is a n weeklyot unus refuseual.” collection VLenhamalence,. a ragstone wall was service,Coxhe thereath Pa isri snoh C excuseouncil wforas litterdue damaged in Loose. [email protected] beingto deb a thrownte the is su frome on F vehiclesebruary 2 or6 Comment 46-47 01622 690290 23 Pudding Lane • Maidstone • Kent dumpedas Down sin M theail road.went to press. Comment 46-47

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2 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Water main is Revived Legion branch ‘now too late’ HEADCORN borough councillor Karen Chappell-Tay has wel- wins Kent recognition comed the installation of a new water main in the village with the THE Royal British Legion has re- rebuke: “Better late than never”. gained a foothold in Marden South East Water (SEW) unveiled after years of struggling to re- the work to modernise the ancient cruit. system of pipes in February. From Membership levels in the village April 4, the utility company will fell so low, the armed services close off the Road and Marden RBL charity was forced to redesignate surrounding streets in phases for it a sub branch of Goudhurst. chairman Tom three months to replace a cast iron But in a phenomenal about- Stevens receiving pipe with a plastic pipe designed turn, numbers have swelled in the the Newport Cup to last over 70 years. parish during the last couple of from Maidstone But Cllr Chappell-Tay said: months, to a point where the Mayor David “Headcorn has been crying out for branch has gained countywide Naghi these improvements for years. recognition. “Residents have had issues with Chairman Tom Stevens told further to guarantee its future. and Afghanistan. We support all flooding into gardens, although Downs Mail: “We saw quite a And Mr Stevens says he also serving personnel and veterans in thankfully not their homes, for boost in November, and our wants to find a permanent home times of need. years. So whilst I welcome the membership now stands at 50. for the charity in the village. At “The other big misconception work, it’s too late if anything. “It resulted in Marden being present, the branch conducts its about joining is that people think There are many people who are awarded the Royal British Le- meetings in the West End Tavern. they have to have served. That’s wondering if it could not have gion’s Newport Cup in January, as “New members are important not the case. We’re just people been done earlier.” the Kent branch with the best per- for our survival,” he said. “The looking to give something back to A SEW statement said the pipe centage increase in membership. WWI centenary helped to raise those who were prepared to give was necessary to maintain water “The response from the village awareness, but there is a danger everything for us.” pressure following increase in de- has been fantastic.” that people associate us with the For membership details visit mand caused by new homes. It is Marden recognises it cannot rest past and not with more recent www.britishlegion.org.uk/mem- part of a £424 million improvement on its laurels and needs to recruit conflicts like the Falklands, Gulf, bership. project between 2015 and 2020.

Maidstone Weald March 2019 3 News downsmail.co.uk MGS slips in Ofsted rating Pupils leave grammar MAIDSTONE Grammar School has slipped from being an “out- standing” to a “good” school after its most recent Ofsted inspection. after drug allegations Headmaster Mark Tomkins has written to parents accepting the THREE pupils at Invicta Grammar School have left over allegations of “entirely fair, ac- curate and realis- “drug misuse”. tic” assesment of The students in year 13 agreed to staff and a range of other profes- the school’s pres- leave after “discussions” with IGS sionals, including in ent position. management. Kent Police became this case.” Inspectors involved at the behest of the Earlier this year, the school was went to the Bar- school, but did not proceed with a listed in the top 10 best secondar- ton Road school criminal investigation. ies in the country, based on official on January 15 and 16. The last in- A police statement from Sgt Nick data. The Real School Guide used spection was in 2013. Hatcher, of Kent Police’s Commu- 51 measures to come to its conclu- Mr Tomkins, pictured, writes: nity Safety Unit, said: “Kent Police sions and ranks IGS seventh across “Governors identified the very was notified of an allegation relat- the country and among the very many positive aspects of the report ing to drug misuse at a school in best in Kent, with a five star, 86% and remain confident that young Maidstone. rating. people will leave MGS very well “The allegations were reviewed proach to drugs. However, we also In July, head teacher and joint prepared to make the most of fu- with the school and, as there was have a strong and supportive CEO of the Valley Invicta Acade- ture opportunities. They recognise, insufficient evidence to support a drugs education programme mies Trust (VIAT), Julie Derrick however, that improvements are police prosecution, the matter was aimed at helping students under- said: “It is testament to the hard needed in respect of teaching and left with the school to progress.” stand the dangers of using drugs. work of all our students, staff and learning and support the work un- Head teacher Julie Derrick said: “These students have unfortu- parents. derway in this area as the best “We can confirm that following a nately made a wrong decision by “I believe that the achievements means of bringing about those im- thorough investigation by the getting involved in drugs, having we have are down to the fact that provements.” school and Kent Police, action has not previously had a history of bad we all have a collaborative drive The Ofsted team noted that GCSE been taken with appropriate sup- behaviour. for the same thing: outstanding and A level results dipped in 2017, port, in line with our school policy. “Our pastoral system ensures care, outstanding education and but school leaders instituted “rigor- “We have a zero tolerance ap- that all students are supported by outstanding opportunities.” ous accountability systems” to monitor progress. The Ofsted re- port concludes the management has improved teaching quality, but Jobs opportunites for students there are still inconsistencies. he re- port says: “Better teaching over the SIXTH formers and scores of Oakwood Park, RAF, Transport for London and last 18 months means that outcomes leading employers met in Maid- Girls School, Valley Park, The Network Rail – advertised live have improved. Attainment is well stone this month to tackle skills Malling School and Maidstone vacancies, giving some pupils above national levels.” shortages in the workplace and Girls’ Grammar were among the opportunity to apply at the Inspectors rated pupils’ personal forge new careers. those who attended. fair and secure interviews before development, behaviour and wel- About 1,000 students and repre- The event, organised by local leaving the premises. fare as outstanding. The curriculum sentatives from 50 local compa- Members of Parliament, gave In addition to chatting with is “broad, rich and ambitious” and nies and organisations packed students the opportunity to meet professionals, the sixth-formers the headmaster and deputies “lead into Maidstone Leisure Centre for potential employers and explore also experienced interactive dis- the school with passion and deter- the town’s second annual appren- apprenticeship opportunities. plays, including simulated fly- mination”. ticeship fair in early February. Many of the exhibitors – who ing with BAE systems, audio Year 12 and year 13 pupils included Bank of , Gal- visual missions with the Army, MGS was shut on February 25 from Maidstone Grammar lagher Group, Arriva, Kent and UK Border Force’s state-of- after a water supply cut due to vinyl_banner.pdf 1 31/01/2019 14:55 School, The School, County Council, Kent Police, the the-art technology. works.

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4 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News MGS slips in Ofsted rating Pupils leave grammar MAIDSTONE Grammar School has slipped from being an “out- standing” to a “good” school after its most recent Ofsted inspection. after drug allegations Headmaster Mark Tomkins has written to parents accepting the THREE pupils at Invicta Grammar School have left over allegations of “entirely fair, ac- curate and realis- “drug misuse”. tic” assesment of The students in year 13 agreed to staff and a range of other profes- the school’s pres- leave after “discussions” with IGS sionals, including Kent Police in ent position. management. Kent Police became this case.” Inspectors involved at the behest of the Earlier this year, the school was went to the Bar- school, but did not proceed with a listed in the top 10 best secondar- ton Road school Cricket club’s criminal investigation. ies in the country, based on official on January 15 and 16. The last in- A police statement from Sgt Nick data. The Real School Guide used spection was in 2013. Hatcher, of Kent Police’s Commu- 51 measures to come to its conclu- Mr Tomkins, pictured, writes: nity Safety Unit, said: “Kent Police sions and ranks IGS seventh across “Governors identified the very recovery bid was notified of an allegation relat- the country and among the very many positive aspects of the report ing to drug misuse at a school in best in Kent, with a five star, 86% and remain confident that young MAIDSTONE’S top cricket club, has committed himself again to the Maidstone. rating. people will leave MGS very well The Mote, is working on a quick club and batsman Chris Back will “The allegations were reviewed proach to drugs. However, we also In July, head teacher and joint prepared to make the most of fu- recovery after a shock when its return after missing last season. with the school and, as there was have a strong and supportive CEO of the Valley Invicta Acade- ture opportunities. They recognise, top three Saturday league teams New overseas player is successful insufficient evidence to support a drugs education programme mies Trust (VIAT), Julie Derrick however, that improvements are were relegated last season. left-arm spinner and middle-order police prosecution, the matter was aimed at helping students under- said: “It is testament to the hard needed in respect of teaching and This has already resulted in the batsman Matt Luksich (22). left with the school to progress.” stand the dangers of using drugs. work of all our students, staff and learning and support the work un- selection of three new captains, a He is a premier league player in Head teacher Julie Derrick said: “These students have unfortu- parents. derway in this area as the best new coach, a talented overseas all- KwaZulu, Natal, and a coach. Sen- “We can confirm that following a nately made a wrong decision by “I believe that the achievements means of bringing about those im- rounder, and a player recruitment ior club coach will be former player thorough investigation by the getting involved in drugs, having we have are down to the fact that provements.” drive. David Joseph who has been work- school and Kent Police, action has not previously had a history of bad we all have a collaborative drive The Ofsted team noted that GCSE The club has a proud Kent ing with Kent County Cricket Club, been taken with appropriate sup- behaviour. for the same thing: outstanding and A level results dipped in 2017, League record, with several cham- heading the juniors. port, in line with our school policy. “Our pastoral system ensures care, outstanding education and but school leaders instituted “rigor- pionships. Recently, the 1st XI He will work with the 1st XI on Relationship at “We have a zero tolerance ap- that all students are supported by outstanding opportunities.” ous accountability systems” to twice fell just short of regaining Saturdays but have an overall view monitor progress. The Ofsted re- premier division status, but last of the playing side to ensure it port concludes the management season stalled seriously, with rele- reaches full potential. breaking point? has improved teaching quality, but Jobs opportunites for students gation to Division 2. This kicked off with winter nets at there are still inconsistencies. he re- “The target now is an immedi- Cornwallis Academy at the end of The breakdown of any relationship can be port says: “Better teaching over the SIXTH formers and scores of Oakwood Park, Walderslade RAF, Transport for London and ate promotion back to Division January and will run until to March very distressing. last 18 months means that outcomes leading employers met in Maid- Girls School, Valley Park, The Network Rail – advertised live One,” said chairman and opening 31, when outdoor nets start at the have improved. Attainment is well stone this month to tackle skills Malling School and Maidstone vacancies, giving some pupils bowler Glen Aukett. Willow Way ground. Whitehead Monckton family lawyers can help you above national levels.” shortages in the workplace and Girls’ Grammar were among the opportunity to apply at the New first team captain is top The recruitment drive is backed through this stressful and painful time. Inspectors rated pupils’ personal forge new careers. those who attended. fair and secure interviews before order batsman James Marriott, by a Maidstone mailing for senior development, behaviour and wel- About 1,000 students and repre- The event, organised by local leaving the premises. who returns after missing last sea- players for four Saturday teams, We offer sensitive, constructive and cost effective fare as outstanding. The curriculum sentatives from 50 local compa- Members of Parliament, gave In addition to chatting with son with a knee injury and will Sunday and mid-week cricket (Mar- is “broad, rich and ambitious” and nies and organisations packed students the opportunity to meet professionals, the sixth-formers look to add to the 5,000 runs he has [email protected]) and for the legal advice. All our lawyers are experienced members the headmaster and deputies “lead into Maidstone Leisure Centre for potential employers and explore also experienced interactive dis- scored for the club. successful 150-strong colts section of Resolution, committed to a non-confrontational the school with passion and deter- the town’s second annual appren- apprenticeship opportunities. plays, including simulated fly- Other new captains are all- ([email protected]). approach to resolving family problems. mination”. ticeship fair in early February. Many of the exhibitors – who ing with BAE systems, audio rounder Lewis Bone (2nds) and re- “With a successful new grounds- Year 12 and year 13 pupils included Bank of England, Gal- visual missions with the Army, MGS was shut on February 25 tired 1st teamer James Hodgson man Howard Waters, the wickets An initial fixed cost meeting for just £100 (inc VAT) with from Maidstone Grammar lagher Group, Arriva, Kent and UK Border Force’s state-of- (3rds). are now rated among the best in the after a water supply cut due to School, The Lenham School, County Council, Kent Police, the the-art technology. one of our lawyers can help you see your way forward works. Leading all-rounder Matt White Kent League,” said Mr Aukett. and understand your legal position and options. Our offices are in the centre of Canterbury, Maidstone Barn and straw blaze and so, if you want to take that first step to FIREFIGHTERS were forced to let a barn fire burn itself out after being called to a blaze involving 30 tonnes of baled straw in Marden. finding out your options simply visit our website at: Two fire crews were sent to the Wheelbarrow Park Industrial Estate in Pattenden Lane at about 5pm on February 19. At 5.30pm, a spokesman www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "One fire engine remains on the scene of a barn fire in Marden. The crew is expected to remain at the in- Canterbury 01227 643276 cident for approximately four hours, monitoring the fire while it burns Maidstone 01622 698051 out under controlled conditions.” One fire engine remained at the scene until around 7.10pm. Tenterden 01580 767527 The straw and the barn in which it was stored went up in flames. A spokesman for Kent Police said: “Initial enquiries are being made www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk into the circumstance surrounding the incident.” Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in A resident living nearby said: “It was good that no one got hurt. Straw Englandwww.whitehead-monckton.co.uk & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne is in short supply in these parts because of the weather in the past year Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by or so, and that will be a big loss as well.” the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. DM2019

Maidstone Weald March 2019 5 News downsmail.co.uk Village homes A SMALL number of homes built specifically for villagers or those Retired vicar dies after wishing to return to Marden can now be applied for. Two shared ownership proper- ties at Rhodes Close development falling down the stairs on Maidstone Road, Marden, have been put on the market by a social TRIBUTES have been paid to a tivities that the vicar and church housing provider. much-loved former vicar who has members are involved in for, and A two-bedroom house and a died after a fall at his home. within, the community.” three-bedroom house are available Rev Steve Hughes MBE (67) only Val Puncher, former chairman of for people from Marden or its sur- retired as the rural dean for Leeds, the Leeds & Broomfield primary rounding parishes. Langley, Otham and Broomfield school’s governing body, said: Four properties at “affordable last summer. He had moved to “Steve was a really nice bloke. He’d rent” – one three-bedroom house north Wales with wife, Mandy, regularly come into the school and and three two-bedroom houses – who had started a new NHS job the children loved him. He was are expected to be available in Sep- there. dedicated to the school and never tember. Apply to Maidstone Bor- Rev Hughes fell downstairs at had a bad word to say about any- ough Council’s Housing Register. his home and died of his injuries body. A real gentleman.” not long after, on February Rev Hughes was born in Lan- 15.,Canon John Corbyn, rector at cashire in 1952, and despite leaving Road closure Holy Cross in Bearsted, said: “He school with two O levels – neither DRIVERS are warned of a 10-week was an affable and friendly man Rev Hughes suffered a number of which was religious education – road closure when planning jour- and much loved by the many peo- of illnesses in recent years, but ap- he joined the county’s police force neys through Marden. ple who knew him. peared well when he retired. as a fingerprinting expert. Albion Road will be closed from “He had little time to enjoy his He was unafraid of controversy, After nine years, his calling saw Tuesday, March 12, from Roundel retirement, which is a terrible especially writing in his monthly him study at Durham and Cam- Way to Jewell Grove while a main shame. But I understand he did parish newsletter column, where bridge universties before his ordi- is installed. spend time with his family over he was frequently critical of the nation in 1980. The diversion is via Plain Road, Christmas.” Church of England’s inability to at- He became a curate in Coventry. Goudhurst Road, West End, It is understood Rev Hughes fell tract new followers. From the mid-1990s, Rev Church Green, High Street, Albion down a flight of stairs at home, Of the modern vicar, he wrote Hughes served in Romania and Road and vice-versa. All of these breaking six ribs and his sternum. last summer: “Many people sim- earned an MBE for his orphanage routes are on the B2079. He died of heart failure in hospital. ply don’t realise the breadth of ac- work. He moved to Kent in 2012. Golden Hill Nurseries For quality and value buy directfrom the grower COUNTY COBBLER www.goldenhillplants.com

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6 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Village homes A SMALL number of homes built specifically for villagers or those Retired vicar dies after wishing to return to Marden can now be applied for. Two shared ownership proper- ties at Rhodes Close development falling down the stairs on Maidstone Road, Marden, have been put on the market by a social TRIBUTES have been paid to a tivities that the vicar and church housing provider. much-loved former vicar who has members are involved in for, and A two-bedroom house and a died after a fall at his home. within, the community.” three-bedroom house are available Rev Steve Hughes MBE (67) only Val Puncher, former chairman of for people from Marden or its sur- retired as the rural dean for Leeds, the Leeds & Broomfield primary rounding parishes. Langley, Otham and Broomfield school’s governing body, said: Four properties at “affordable last summer. He had moved to “Steve was a really nice bloke. He’d rent” – one three-bedroom house north Wales with wife, Mandy, regularly come into the school and and three two-bedroom houses – who had started a new NHS job the children loved him. He was are expected to be available in Sep- there. dedicated to the school and never tember. Apply to Maidstone Bor- Rev Hughes fell downstairs at had a bad word to say about any- ough Council’s Housing Register. his home and died of his injuries body. A real gentleman.” not long after, on February Rev Hughes was born in Lan- 15.,Canon John Corbyn, rector at cashire in 1952, and despite leaving Road closure Holy Cross in Bearsted, said: “He school with two O levels – neither GYM | SWIM | CLASS DRIVERS are warned of a 10-week was an affable and friendly man Rev Hughes suffered a number of which was religious education – road closure when planning jour- and much loved by the many peo- of illnesses in recent years, but ap- he joined the county’s police force neys through Marden. ple who knew him. peared well when he retired. as a fingerprinting expert. Experience everything our fitness Albion Road will be closed from “He had little time to enjoy his He was unafraid of controversy, After nine years, his calling saw Tuesday, March 12, from Roundel retirement, which is a terrible especially writing in his monthly him study at Durham and Cam- Way to Jewell Grove while a main shame. But I understand he did parish newsletter column, where bridge universties before his ordi- memberships have to offer is installed. spend time with his family over he was frequently critical of the nation in 1980. The diversion is via Plain Road, Christmas.” Church of England’s inability to at- He became a curate in Coventry. at Tenterden Leisure Centre. Goudhurst Road, West End, It is understood Rev Hughes fell tract new followers. From the mid-1990s, Rev Church Green, High Street, Albion down a flight of stairs at home, Of the modern vicar, he wrote Hughes served in Romania and Road and vice-versa. All of these breaking six ribs and his sternum. last summer: “Many people sim- earned an MBE for his orphanage routes are on the B2079. He died of heart failure in hospital. ply don’t realise the breadth of ac- work. He moved to Kent in 2012.

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 7 News downsmail.co.uk Town’s secret celebrities THEY’RE perhaps not household names but they are, in their own way, historically remarkable and noteworthy. A slave-trading horticulturalist, a rebellious alchemist, the inven- tor of cricket’s over-arm bowling and the first woman to fly an air- craft in Ireland all hail from these parishes. So, one might be forgiven for not having heard of John Brad- dick, Robert Fludd, John Willes or Lilian Bland. But their marks, among many others, on history have been recorded in a new book, Secret Maidstone, in which author Dean Author Dean Hollands and his dog Hollands attempts to unearth the hidden, or unappreciated, Raff and right, pioneering aviator nuggets of the county town’s past. Lilian Bland The author said: “The book has then Oxford University. But he hooped skirt got in the way. (1878-1971) chose an unconven- been written for the residents of drew attention to himself as a doc- In the book, the author tells how tional lifestyle for her time. She Maidstone and for those intend- tor of medicine by expressing con- his attempt to introduce the new smoked, wore trousers, sold cars, ing to visit this most curious and tempt for the contemporary form during a match between practised martial arts, built planes interesting of places.” practice of the four humours – Men of Kent and Men of England, and flew them. Braddick’s less than illustrious black bile, yellow bile, blood and proved unpopular with some of In 1910, she became the first claim to fame, according to the phlegm – upon which all diag- the players and the supporters, woman in Ireland to fly an aircraft book, is that the Boughton noses were made. He is buried in with reports of a pitch invasion as – a powered bi-plane called The Monchelsea man made his for- the graveyard of Holy Cross a protest. Mayfly – at Randalstown, County tune in the slave trade before be- church in Bearsted. When, in 1822, Willes tried to Antrim. Horrified, her father coming a fruit farmer in 1824. Willes was born in Headcorn in bowl overarm at Lord’s he was bought her a car which prompted In Kent, he carried on his in- 1777 and is regarded as one of twice called for a “no ball” – a de- her to open one of the first motor volvement by fattening up his cap- cricket’s great innovators – cision which saw him storm off on dealerships in Belfast. tives in the cellar of his mansion switching the bowling action from his horse in disgust. He died in She moved back to Kent in the before selling them on in London. underarm to over. 1852 and is buried in Sutton Va- 1950s. Fludd (1574-1637) attended He had noticed that when his lence. Secret Maidstone is published Maidstone Grammar School and wife played the game, her wide, Willington Street resident Bland by Amberley, priced £14.99. Unlocking Stove blaze Residents’ pub nights THE flue of a wood-burning stove memories CREATIVE care staff have come ing her mum to be greeting guests is believed to have started a fire MUSIC and memorabilia are up with an imaginative alternative at the opening. that destroyed a house in Sutton among the keys being used to to “a night in” for residents at a Amy said: “Everyone has been Valence. unlock memory loss in Mar- care home in Maidstone by open- so supportive and helpful, but I Four fire engines attended the den. ing their own local. guess it will be down to me to take converted barn in Boyton Court Living Memories turns Such has been the support for on the role of landlady.” Road on Monday, February 4, and back time to help those living the novel idea What the residents-only bar crews battled the blaze through the with memory loss, using a that Maid- lacks in a licence, it makes up for night. theme to expand on using stone Mayor in memorabilia, with floral wall- A bulk carrier was used to get memories, photos, memora- David Naghi paper straight out of the 1940s; op- water to the two-storey building bilia and music. was first over tics loaded with squash; board and foam was used to prevent the The initiative is being sup- the threshold games; and even a piano. Amy fire spreading to other properties. ported by Marden Church to declare the thanked the centre’s maintenance There were no casualties. and Marden Medical Practice snug at the technician Brian Thornton for and is held in the Vestry Hall newly-named turning her and colleague Becky Advice visit from 10.30am to 12.30pm. pub, The Hicks’ ideas into a reality for the Pembury Arms, open for busi- home’s 15 residents and 46 receiv- The next two subjects VILLAGERS can speak to staff ness. ing nursing care. under the spotlight are from Citizens’ Advice at its session Amy Roberts (24), activities co- Amy said: “Residents have their “Mother’s Kitchen” on Tues- in Marden on March 19. ordinator at Maidstone Care Cen- own rooms and shared lounges, day, March 5, and “Growing Maidstone Citizens’ Advice vis- tre residential and nursing home but this will provide them with our Own” on Tuesday, March its from 2-4pm on the third Tues- in Road, came up with the somewhere else to socialise and re- 19. The talk is open to all and day of each month, with sessions in idea. Her parents Sue and Russell flect upon the past.” free of charge. the Old School Room at Marden Roberts ran The Bull at East Far- The pub name – which was un- Contact Rachel on 01622 Memorial Hall in Goudhurst Road. leigh and The White Hart at Col- veiled by the mayor – is taken No appointment is necessary. 831941 or email livingmemo- lier Street, near Marden. Her dad from the fact it was created within [email protected]. Alternatively, call them on 01622 died in 2009, but Amy was expect- the care centre’s Pembury Suite. 752420/01622 757882.

8 Maidstone Weald March 2019 mail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News downs News downsmail.co.ukBusiness Focus Town’s secret celebrities THEY’RE perhaps not household names but they are, in their own way, historically remarkable Ask the Expert and noteworthy. Eyesight is precious and help to improve reading speed A slave-trading horticulturalist, a rebellious alchemist, the inven- therefore we all know that we and fluency by up to ten times. tor of cricket’s over-arm bowling need to look after our eyes, and the first woman to fly an air- but with 14,000 registered Glasses, what’s the difference? craft in Ireland all hail from these parishes. Optometrists in the UK So, one might be forgiven for how do you choose the right Like all products, there are not having heard of John Brad- one for you and what’s the varying degrees of the quality dick, Robert Fludd, John Willes or of spectacle frames. A better- Lilian Bland. difference between them all? But their marks, among many quality product should last others, on history have been Alisdair Buchanan has been longer, be more comfortable, For over a decade we have not recorded in a new book, Secret lighter, stronger, come in measured clients for spectacle Maidstone, in which author Dean voted Optometrist of the Year Author Dean Hollands and his dog lenses using a ruler. Instead Hollands attempts to unearth the and his practice Buchanan various sizes or made to hidden, or unappreciated, Raff and right, pioneering aviator Optometrists in Snodland has measure to fit you properly we use a specialist camera to nuggets of the county town’s past. Lilian Bland been voted the best in the UK, and also be designed for your measure every detail of your The author said: “The book has then Oxford University. But he hooped skirt got in the way. (1878-1971) chose an unconven- lenses and prescription. A lot face and chosen frame been written for the residents of drew attention to himself as a doc- In the book, the author tells how tional lifestyle for her time. She winning so many awards that Maidstone and for those intend- tor of medicine by expressing con- his attempt to introduce the new smoked, wore trousers, sold cars, Alisdair was asked to judge of practices use unqualified to ensure the lenses can be ing to visit this most curious and tempt for the contemporary form during a match between practised martial arts, built planes the 2018 Optician awards. So staff to help you choose your designed for your specific interesting of places.” practice of the four humours – Men of Kent and Men of England, and flew them. spectacles (there is no legal Braddick’s less than illustrious black bile, yellow bile, blood and proved unpopular with some of In 1910, she became the first we asked him to explain… requirements, this allows us to claim to fame, according to the phlegm – upon which all diag- the players and the supporters, woman in Ireland to fly an aircraft requirement to be qualified). produce diamond cut lenses, book, is that the Boughton noses were made. He is buried in with reports of a pitch invasion as – a powered bi-plane called The Aren’t all eye tests the same? I only use university qualified adjusted at over a thousand Monchelsea man made his for- the graveyard of Holy Cross a protest. Mayfly – at Randalstown, County dispensing Opticians to help points across the lens for tune in the slave trade before be- church in Bearsted. When, in 1822, Willes tried to Antrim. Horrified, her father you select your spectacle coming a fruit farmer in 1824. Willes was born in Headcorn in bowl overarm at Lord’s he was bought her a car which prompted Certainly not, a lot of practices pinpoint sharpness and the In Kent, he carried on his in- 1777 and is regarded as one of twice called for a “no ball” – a de- her to open one of the first motor fulfil the basic requirements frames. Having the right frame thinnest, lightest lenses volvement by fattening up his cap- cricket’s great innovators – cision which saw him storm off on dealerships in Belfast. is not just about looking good possible, improving your tives in the cellar of his mansion switching the bowling action from his horse in disgust. He died in She moved back to Kent in the for a sight test but no more. (although this is obviously before selling them on in London. underarm to over. 1852 and is buried in Sutton Va- 1950s. Examinations at my practice field of view by up to 40%! He had noticed that when his lence. Secret Maidstone is published very important) but how the Fludd (1574-1637) attended range from 45-90 minutes Everyone places different Maidstone Grammar School and wife played the game, her wide, Willington Street resident Bland by Amberley, priced £14.99. frame sits on your face, the demands on their vision – a allowing us to perform a centration of the lenses, the plethora of additional tests, height, curvature and distance HGV driver, Teacher, Golfer Unlocking Residents’ pub nights Stove blaze scans and examinations. Many from your eyes that the frame and someone who works THE flue of a wood-burning stove practices are still relying on sits all need to be taken into with IT will all have different memories CREATIVE care staff have come ing her mum to be greeting guests is believed to have started a fire technology invented over consideration to ensure a and specific needs. We tailor MUSIC and memorabilia are up with an imaginative alternative at the opening. that destroyed a house in Sutton each and every lens to the among the keys being used to to “a night in” for residents at a Amy said: “Everyone has been Valence. 100 years ago to diagnose perfectly functioning product. unlock memory loss in Mar- care home in Maidstone by open- so supportive and helpful, but I Four fire engines attended the conditions like glaucoma. individual, your profession, den. ing their own local. guess it will be down to me to take converted barn in Boyton Court The OCT scanning machine hobbies or sport. Living Memories turns Such has been the support for on the role of landlady.” Road on Monday, February 4, and Lenses, surely they’re all the back time to help those living the novel idea What the residents-only bar crews battled the blaze through the we use in practice (there are same?! with memory loss, using a that Maid- lacks in a licence, it makes up for night. only a few dozen in the U.K) If you have any further theme to expand on using stone Mayor in memorabilia, with floral wall- A bulk carrier was used to get can diagnose glaucoma up to This couldn’t be further from questions you would like memories, photos, memora- David Naghi paper straight out of the 1940s; op- water to the two-storey building to get Alisdair’s opinion bilia and music. was first over tics loaded with squash; board and foam was used to prevent the 8 years sooner than standard the truth. Gone are the days The initiative is being sup- the threshold games; and even a piano. Amy fire spreading to other properties. tests which means the chances when thickness and coatings on please email info@ ported by Marden Church to declare the thanked the centre’s maintenance There were no casualties. snug at the technician Brian Thornton for of preventing sight loss and were the only discernible optometrists.co.uk or visit and Marden Medical Practice www.optometrists.co.uk. and is held in the Vestry Hall newly-named turning her and colleague Becky Advice visit progression are significantly difference between lenses. from 10.30am to 12.30pm. pub, The Hicks’ ideas into a reality for the Pembury Arms, open for busi- home’s 15 residents and 46 receiv- better. We also offer additional The next two subjects VILLAGERS can speak to staff ness. ing nursing care. under the spotlight are from Citizens’ Advice at its session clinics for dry eyes - using the Amy Roberts (24), activities co- Amy said: “Residents have their “Mother’s Kitchen” on Tues- in Marden on March 19. latest Pulsed Light treatment Appointments at Buchanan Optometrists ordinator at Maidstone Care Cen- own rooms and shared lounges, day, March 5, and “Growing Maidstone Citizens’ Advice vis- tre residential and nursing home but this will provide them with to offer lasting improvement our Own” on Tuesday, March its from 2-4pm on the third Tues- can be booked on in Boxley Road, came up with the somewhere else to socialise and re- 19. The talk is open to all and day of each month, with sessions in rather than just over the idea. Her parents Sue and Russell flect upon the past.” free of charge. the Old School Room at Marden Roberts ran The Bull at East Far- The pub name – which was un- counter drops, clinics for Contact Rachel on 01622 Memorial Hall in Goudhurst Road. leigh and The White Hart at Col- veiled by the mayor – is taken dyslexia, Irlen Syndrome and 831941 or email livingmemo- No appointment is necessary. lier Street, near Marden. Her dad from the fact it was created within Alternatively, call them on 01622 01622 535115 [email protected]. reading difficulties which can died in 2009, but Amy was expect- the care centre’s Pembury Suite. 752420/01622 757882.

Maidstone Weald March 2019 9 News downsmail.co.uk GP crisis forces services merger THE failure to recruit a GP part- ical practice, but this will be insuffi- ner for the surgery in Langley has cient to meet demand in the area. led to the merger of more doctors’ Service providers in Sutton Va- services in the area. lence and Langley have indicated Back-office duties at the Orchard a need for a new surgery in the Surgery in Horseshoes Lane will next five years, providing the right be dealt with by Sutton Valence site and funding can be secured. Group Practice, where its two sur- At a public meeting of residents geries merged a year ago. It will at Sutton Valence Village Hall re- allow the Langley surgery to con- garding the recent changes, the op- tinue operating following the re- tion of using crowd-funding to tirement of partner Dr Jackie finance the project was suggested. Dennison in October after nine Dr Will Mangar, of Sutton Va- years at the surgery. lence Group Practice, said: “Ideally, Langley practice manager Jo it would be along the Sutton Road Palmer said: “There is a national corridor, and discussions with the recruitment problem for GPs and council and CCG are taking place.” ultimately this could have forced A spokesman for Langley Parish Pupils’ final frontier the closure of the surgery. How- said: “The surgery is exemplary ever, by merging with Sutton Va- and I hope the merger means it can IT’S school Jim, but not as we know it. Youngsters at Loose Primary have lence it will be business as usual.” continue to give the same high boldly gone the extra mile and ditched their uniforms for something a However, it does not account for level of service and care.” little more out of this world. the needs of about 3,500 new pa- The spokesman also pledged the Pupils from Tanzanite and Aquamarine classes reached for the stars tients moving in to the 900-1,000 support of the parish council, when they made their own space costumes and paraded them around houses being built in the area. The where possible, in the pursuit of a the classroom. Langley Park development in- project to build a new health cen- Homemade “extra-terrestrial” cupcakes and “rocket” biscuits also cludes provision for a modest med- tre for the area. made an appearance on February 15.

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10 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk News Gender focus YMCA capturing its of exhibition MAIDSTONE Museum has launched a year-long event focus- ing on sexuality and gender issues fun sessions on film in history. The project opened on January MAIDSTONE YMCA has made 31 and aims to give the LGBTQ a short film about the work staff community a voice and “to look at artefacts in a different light”. and parents do. Skate The four-minute promotional The museum applied to the instructor video was filmed and edited by South East Museums’ Develop- Wildwood media over a two-day Elaine Carter ment fund for almost £3,000 of fi- period at the Maidstone Sports and (47) and nancial support. Community Centre in Loose. skate Supporting the launch were the The YMCA-funded film was marshall 35 people from various walks of life, including Maidstone Borough posted on YouTube on February 5, Rebecca Council’s Cllr Paul Harper. featuring staff and gym users prais- Osbourn (17) ing the centre for being “such a nice He said: ”At least 10% of the pop- at Maidstone ulation identify as non-straight, and friendly place to work out.” YMCA It received nearly 1,000 views in heterosexuals, but in Maidstone its first 10 days of being online. the parents can have a coffee. sions and fitness classes.” they are a hidden minority. “This event (and associated trial) Many people in Maidstone and “We made the video because I Mums and dads have praised are the start of the museum cele- the surrounding areas have fond don’t think enough people actually the group for its free creche, so par- brating our LGBTQ communities memories of roller discos and know what we do here. We’re ents are able to use the gym with- and their heritage and impact. It’s youth groups at the YMCA and pretty tucked away and hidden, out the worries of child care costs. the start of an interesting partner- now bring their children along. we aren’t on a main road or any- Today, Maidstone YMCA runs ship with the LGBTQ community Alexa Kersting-Woods, business thing, but we just wanted to show two pre-schools, a health and fit- which I am proud to be involved manager at Maidstone YMCA how much we actually do. ness facility including gym and 65 with.” said: “The most popular activity is “But it’s not all about the kids, different group exercise classes Maidstone Museum is home to a definitely our roller-skating events, we do offer a lot of facilities for and a place for adults and children vast collection of fine art and his- adults too, including badminton, to take part in more than 15 differ- it gives a chance for the kids to use torical artefacts, that are free for all basketball, cricket, over 60s ses- ent sports. up their energy after school, and visitors to discover.

THE COMEDY STORE The Way Of The Drum The Play That Goes Wrong Goldilocks & ALICE IN WONDERLAND Thur 21st Mar, 8pm Wed 27th Mar, The Three Bears… Wed 20th Mar, 7:30pm Mon 22nd Apr, 1pm Thur 18th Apr, 8pm *London Coach Trip* Thur 18th Apr, 3pm

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 13 News downsmail.co.uk Good rating for care home Speed survey shows A CARE home for those with com- plex nursing needs has been rated good by inspectors. Inspectors from the Care Quality ‘frightening’ results Commission (CQC) called on Sut- ton Valence Care Home in North Street, unannounced. The home MORE than 133,000 vehicles are exceeding the speed limit through was looking after 67 people across three units, led by a registered , data commissioned by the parish council has shown. nurse with care staff and a cleaner. In just one week, almost 284,024 Malcom Buller. He revealed that, “We have fully supported the The report noted that while traffic movements were moni- of the four sites monitored, the Community Speedwatch team, many living at the home needed tored within the village and, of High Street site recorded the which most recently included an help with all aspects of their care, these, 162 were travelling over highest number of speeding driv- investment in new Speedwatch those more able were encouraged 70mph within either a 30mph or ers, with 1,428 vehicles travelling equipment. to be as independent as possible. 40mph zone. faster than 45mph. “As a local council, we have lim- “People could choose what they The survey by Streetwise was “It is frightening to see what ited powers to effectively deal wanted to do each day and there funded jointly by Staplehurst speeds some drivers are actually with speeding. However, we have were enough staff to support the Parish Council and county coun- doing through the village where and will continue to work with activities they chose.” cillor Eric Hotson following a the speed limit is 30mph,” said our local borough and county The care home was rated good at meeting in September between parish council chairman Tom councillors and agencies, such as its last inspection. Relatives said Kent Highways, the parish and Burnham. Kent Highways and Kent Police, staff had a caring approach and borough councillor Louise Brice. “We have for some time been to bring about solutions that will looked after residents well. The survey’s findings were pre- concerned about speeding, which have a sustainable improvement The inspector added: “There was sented at the council’s February is an issue frequently raised by in speeding within the village and a calm and relaxed ambience and meeting by parish clerk and Com- our residents at the council’s sur- make Staplehurst a safer place to the staff were friendly and happy munity Speedwatch team leader, geries. live and visit.” to chat.” Dutch art talk Teenager faces up to Britain First DUTCH painting from the 17th THE far-right Britain First group met Century is the topic of a talk by its match when a Muslim teenager Douglas Skeggs at Sutton Valence faced up to members in Maidstone. Village Hall on Tuesday, March 26. The BF leader Paul Golding and Members of His presentation, called Art in seven colleagues were outside the Britain First the Garden of God, is part of an on- HSBC bank in Week Street on Febru- going programme of talks organ- ary 23, giving out leaflets protesting were in ised by The Arts Society Mid Kent. about the mosque redevelopment. Maidstone The group, which meets nine The young woman, aged 17, ac- to hand out times a year on a Tuesday morning cepted one of the tracts and pro- leaflets is always looking for new mem- ceeded to tear it up in front of them, protesting bers. Those interested should email saying: “Go **** yourselves!” against the membershipsecretarymidkent@the The sixth-former, who attends a construction artssociety.org local school but asked not to be iden- of a mosque tified, told Downs Mail: “I saw them handing the leaflets outside so I Thegroup,whichhaspledgedtodo- a ‘Mega Mosque’. Transport help went up and took one. You should nate£10tothemosquefundforevery Mr Cheeseman added: “The A “GOOD Neighbour” scheme is have seen their faces when I tore it up Britain First member seen in Maid- mosque will be three-storey to fit in reminding villagers it is on hand to infrontofthem.Somuchofwhatthey stone, says the action by the far-right with surrounding buildings, but its ca- help those with transport difficul- say is ill-informed and designed to group on Saturday led to an £80 do- pacity for worshippers will be less in ties make medical appointments. stoke up hatred against Muslims.” nation to the project. order to meet fire regulations.” The Three Suttons Helpline – The group was also met by mem- Planningpermissionforthemosque ImamDrMuhammedUsmanisaid: that covers the villages of Sutton bersoftheMaidstoneAnti-RacistNet- hasalreadybeengrantedbythecoun- “It is their right to express their opin- Valence, Chart Sutton, , work. Spokesman Steve Cheeseman cil. It will include lecture rooms for ions but, of course, I don’t agree with Kingswood and Langley – says the said: “We will continue to respond to youngsters,alargerareaforworship,a what the leaflet says. A mosque is as service is available when public the increasing threats towards Mus- library, flat and three shops. BF claims important to the Muslim as a church transport is not an option. lims in Maidstone.” thethree-floorreplacementbuildingis is to the Christian.” The helpline can be contacted on 01622 844301, 842530 or 842346. Garden show Vineyard picks up tourism gold award SUTTON Valence Senior School is A STAPLEHURST winery has Lynn said: “Our doors are open to why we are delighted to collect a hosting the Alpine Garden Society been awarded a gold accolade by visitors all year round. We have a gold award this year from Visit Easter Show on April 20. Visit England. world-class attraction that show- England. As the only English win- Plant nurseries from across the Hush Heath, a 400-acre estate cases the charm of the English ery recognised for this award, the country along with local artists and with 100 acres of vineyards, was countryside and respects the accolade puts us on the map.” craft stalls will be welcoming visi- among 16 attractions recognised wildlife that lives here. Over the next five years, Hush tors from 9am, with the flower this year providing an outstanding “The team in the vineyard and Heath Estate’s tourism centre, The show running from 11.30am to experience to visitors. the winery are all very passionate View, expects to host up to 50,000 3.30pm. The estate’s Richard Balfour- about everything they do, which is visitors each year.

14 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Good rating Pancake date for care home Speed survey shows Dog owners urged not ST MICHAEL’S Church, Chart Sutton, broke with tradition this A CARE home for those with com- year by staging a “Pancake Sun- plex nursing needs has been rated day”. good by inspectors. The Parochial Church Council Inspectors from the Care Quality ‘frightening’ results to leave waste behind invited villagers to attend a short Commission (CQC) called on Sut- DOG walkers are being urged to One Loose Road resident said: “I service at the village hall in prepa- ton Valence Care Home in North act in a bid to curb the volume of have lived in Loose for about 10 ration for Lent, on March 3, before Street, unannounced. The home MORE than 133,000 vehicles are exceeding the speed limit through bagged poo being discarded years and I am well aware most serving up pancakes with fillings was looking after 67 people across across Loose, writes Jade people do pick up after their dogs, ranging from lemon and sugar to Staplehurst, data commissioned by the parish council has shown. ham and chilli sauce. three units, led by a registered Schopman. but sadly the ones who don't are nurse with care staff and a cleaner. In just one week, almost 284,024 Malcom Buller. He revealed that, “We have fully supported the Residents say the surge in own- far too many. The report noted that while traffic movements were moni- of the four sites monitored, the Community Speedwatch team, ers leaving pet mess on the ground “I think part of the problem is Piano recital many living at the home needed tored within the village and, of High Street site recorded the which most recently included an or hanging from trees and hedges people do not feel comfortable PIANIST Sarah Beth Briggs show- help with all aspects of their care, these, 162 were travelling over highest number of speeding driv- investment in new Speedwatch has ruined “what used to be a using the multi-use bins because cased her skills at Sutton Valence those more able were encouraged 70mph within either a 30mph or ers, with 1,428 vehicles travelling equipment. lovely village”. they hardly ever get changed and Music Society on February 17. to be as independent as possible. 40mph zone. faster than 45mph. “As a local council, we have lim- They are blaming Maidstone a lot of them are near play areas.” The recitalist, concerto soloist “People could choose what they The survey by Streetwise was “It is frightening to see what ited powers to effectively deal Borough Council for the removal Another local said: “I counted and chamber musician was 11 wanted to do each day and there funded jointly by Staplehurst speeds some drivers are actually with speeding. However, we have of dog poo bins. seven lots of discarded dog waste when she became the youngest fi- were enough staff to support the Parish Council and county coun- doing through the village where and will continue to work with Raymond Metcalf (78), of Postley along the footpath between Salts nalist in the BBC’s Young Musician activities they chose.” cillor Eric Hotson following a the speed limit is 30mph,” said our local borough and county Road, said: “There is not one bin in Avenue and Hubbard’s Lane. My The care home was rated good at meeting in September between parish council chairman Tom councillors and agencies, such as of the Year. She treated her Sutton Postley Road. It may not be as kids were trying to cycle there.” Valence audience to pieces by J S its last inspection. Relatives said Kent Highways, the parish and Burnham. Kent Highways and Kent Police, much of a problem in parks and Borough councillor Sue Grigg staff had a caring approach and borough councillor Louise Brice. “We have for some time been to bring about solutions that will Bach, Mozart, Beethoven and fields anymore, because we have said: “The council took out some Brahms. looked after residents well. The survey’s findings were pre- concerned about speeding, which have a sustainable improvement the multi-use bins, but you still see dog waste bins which I was very The inspector added: “There was sented at the council’s February is an issue frequently raised by in speeding within the village and it all over the streets and hanging against. This has shown why. a calm and relaxed ambience and meeting by parish clerk and Com- our residents at the council’s sur- make Staplehurst a safer place to from trees. “I have managed to reinstate Quiz proceeds the staff were friendly and happy munity Speedwatch team leader, geries. live and visit.” “I don’t understand why people some of the bins that were taken to chat.” THE Royal British Legion’s Sutton are so reluctant to just carrying the away, but there is an individual re- Valence and District Branch raised bags around for a bit instead of sponsibility here, I can’t do much £235 from the “pub quiz” it staged Teenager faces up to Britain First causing the muck we now see if residents are not taking respon- in the village hall in December. Dutch art talk Raymond Metcalf is disgusted by DUTCH painting from the 17th every day on the pavements. It’s sibility for their dogs and simply The money will go towards the THE far-right Britain First group met disgusting.” not using the bins provided.” the dog mess left in parks and fields Century is the topic of a talk by its match when a Muslim teenager charity’s Poppy Appeal. Douglas Skeggs at Sutton Valence faced up to members in Maidstone. Village Hall on Tuesday, March 26. The BF leader Paul Golding and Members of The UK’s His presentation, called Art in seven colleagues were outside the Britain First the Garden of God, is part of an on- HSBC bank in Week Street on Febru- going programme of talks organ- ary 23, giving out leaflets protesting were in ised by The Arts Society Mid Kent. about the mosque redevelopment. Maidstone The group, which meets nine The young woman, aged 17, ac- to hand out times a year on a Tuesday morning cepted one of the tracts and pro- leaflets is always looking for new mem- ceeded to tear it up in front of them, protesting bers. Those interested should email saying: “Go **** yourselves!” against the membershipsecretarymidkent@the The sixth-former, who attends a construction artssociety.org local school but asked not to be iden- of a mosque proof fence! tified, told Downs Mail: “I saw them handing the leaflets outside so I Thegroup,whichhaspledgedtodo- a ‘Mega Mosque’. Transport help went up and took one. You should nate£10tothemosquefundforevery Mr Cheeseman added: “The A “GOOD Neighbour” scheme is have seen their faces when I tore it up Britain First member seen in Maid- mosque will be three-storey to fit in reminding villagers it is on hand to infrontofthem.Somuchofwhatthey stone, says the action by the far-right with surrounding buildings, but its ca- help those with transport difficul- say is ill-informed and designed to group on Saturday led to an £80 do- pacity for worshippers will be less in ties make medical appointments. stoke up hatred against Muslims.” nation to the project. order to meet fire regulations.” The Three Suttons Helpline – The group was also met by mem- Planningpermissionforthemosque ImamDrMuhammedUsmanisaid: that covers the villages of Sutton bersoftheMaidstoneAnti-RacistNet- hasalreadybeengrantedbythecoun- “It is their right to express their opin- Valence, Chart Sutton, East Sutton, work. Spokesman Steve Cheeseman cil. It will include lecture rooms for ions but, of course, I don’t agree with Kingswood and Langley – says the said: “We will continue to respond to youngsters,alargerareaforworship,a what the leaflet says. A mosque is as service is available when public the increasing threats towards Mus- library, flat and three shops. BF claims important to the Muslim as a church transport is not an option. lims in Maidstone.” thethree-floorreplacementbuildingis is to the Christian.” The helpline can be contacted on 01622 844301, 842530 or 842346. Garden show Vineyard picks up tourism gold award SUTTON Valence Senior School is A STAPLEHURST winery has Lynn said: “Our doors are open to why we are delighted to collect a hosting the Alpine Garden Society been awarded a gold accolade by visitors all year round. We have a gold award this year from Visit FOR A FREE NO-OBLIGATION QUOTATION Easter Show on April 20. Visit England. world-class attraction that show- England. As the only English win- The Ultimate in Garden Fencing Plant nurseries from across the Hush Heath, a 400-acre estate cases the charm of the English ery recognised for this award, the PLEASE CONTACT US NOW 01622 233322 | [email protected] country along with local artists and with 100 acres of vineyards, was countryside and respects the accolade puts us on the map.” craft stalls will be welcoming visi- among 16 attractions recognised wildlife that lives here. Over the next five years, Hush tors from 9am, with the flower this year providing an outstanding “The team in the vineyard and Heath Estate’s tourism centre, The Maintenance Free † www.colourfencemidkent.co.uk show running from 11.30am to experience to visitors. the winery are all very passionate View, expects to host up to 50,000 The estate’s Richard Balfour- about everything they do, which is visitors each year. Guaranteed for 25 years 3.30pm. *Terms & conditions apply please ask for details.

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 17 News downsmail.co.uk Bridge drama man rescued Extra police to hit the A MAN who threatened to throw himself off a railway bridge in Maidstone sparked a major police response and a traffic diversion. streets, reveals PCC The 999 scramble came after he was spotted with his legs dan- gling over the side of the crossing KENT Police plan to recruit 180 more officers in the coming year, using in Sittingbourne Road, at about funds raised by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott. 11.20am on February 6. Cars were diverted from the The PCC says the number of full- scene while Kent Police attended time officers in Kent will increase and handed the matter to British to 3,632, returning the force to 96% Transport Police. of its peak strength from a decade An eye-witness said: “He was a ago. big, young lad and a couple of On Wednesday, February 6, Mr people had him by the arms try- Scott’s budget plans were unani- mously approved by the Kent and ing to stop him from going over Medway Police and Crime Panel. the side of the bridge. They were As well as increasing officer gently talking to him. numbers, Kent Police’s 300 police “They or someone else eventu- community support officers have ally got him down and it made also again been protected. me think that there are people out Mr Scott told panel members at there in our community who the meeting in Maidstone: “Resi- need a bit of help. I felt sorry for dents want to see more police out the lad.” on the street and to pay for that I’m PCC Matthew Scott and Chief Constable Alan Pughsley British Transport Police were increasing the council tax by £2 a able to restrain the man and he month for an average band D warranted police constables next what incidents they are going to be was taken away. property. This has been supported year. going to, what challenges they by 60% of people across more than “That is in addition to replacing might be facing, or what dangers Famous quiz 5,000 pieces of consultation feed- those who leave or retire, and en- they might be presented with. In- back.” ables us to retain the 270 additional creased demand pressures have THE Headcorn Scout Group's Adding that it was not a decision officers recruited since I was had an impact on them. "Famous Quiz Night" takes place taken lightly, the PCC said: “These elected in 2016.” “I believe this recruitment plan at the end of March. plans are not just about asking for Mr Scott stressed it would be sends an important message – that It happens at Egerton village more money. I’ve asked Kent Po- down to the Chief Constable to de- they are not alone. We understand hall on March 30. Teams of six are lice to continue their drive to be as termine exactly how and where what they are going through and invited to take part and tickets are efficient and effective as possible, these additional officers would be we want to see extra colleagues £9 each which includes at hot without putting frontline services deployed. working alongside them and sup- meal and cake. Call Kevin Harper at risk. They will make £9.7million But Mr Scott said 90 would go porting them.” 01622 756659. of savings over the next year. into local policing roles and 90 into Kent Police Chief Constable Alan “This, combined with the use of crime investigation teams, to tackle Pughsley said: “We have already reserves to continue the improve- issues like domestic abuse and sex- started to welcome our first intake Winter warmer ments we’ve seen in performance ual violence. of new officers, who were recruited THERE is one more chance to within the Force Control Room, He added: ‘They (officers and last year. Many of them have al- grab a warming bowl of soup, will enable the Chief Constable to staff) do tremendous work daily to ready started making a difference savouries and cake in the last of look to recruit another 180 fully- keep us all safe. They don’t know in the communities they serve.” the Winter Warmer village lunches in Hunton. Volunteers at the Hunton Club, in Bensted Close, will be serving Inspection praise for care firm soup, gammon and cheeses, along CARERS offering personal help their responsibility to protect infection and cross-contamina- with refreshments and home- in the home to the elderly, de- people from harm and abuse. tion. The inspector also noted made cake from noon on Thurs- pendents and the disabled in The report noted: “Clients told that new staff sat an induction day, March 7, for a £6 donation to Maidstone have earned praise us they felt safe with staff from course and then worked along- St Mary’s Church and the club. from a Government inspector. MyLife Home Care Maidstone.” side experienced colleagues be- All welcome. No need to book. The Care Quality Commission Potential risks were mitigated fore working alone. Further details from visited MyLife Home Care on and contingency plans limited As well as having their as- [email protected]. the Ashford Road. It was provid- disruption to people’s care dur- sessed needs met, the CQC ing home help to 25 clients, in- ing emergency situations, such noted that clients also received Herculean hut cluding older adults, younger as bad weather. emotional support, adding: disabled adults, children and Staff were employed on the “Staff knew people well and SCOUTS in Headcorn have people with drug and alcohol is- basis that they were suitable to were aware of their likes, dis- crammed the Labours of Hercules sues. work with people, and there was likes and personal histories. into their hut on Ulcombe Road. The CQC found good practices enough of them to fulfil people’s “People were treated with dig- The troop hosted K A Harper's in operation across the board. assessed care needs. nity, respect and their privacy popular play for three evening The inspection team found a reg- Medicines were administered was maintained. Staff were kind, performances between Thursday, istered manager in place and by trained staff and steps taken caring and promoted people’s February 21 and Saturday, Febru- trained staff who understood to protect others from any risk of independence.” ary 23.

18 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk Bridge drama man rescued Extra police to hit the A MAN who threatened to throw FURNITURE WORLD himself off a railway bridge in Maidstone sparked a major police response and a traffic diversion. streets, reveals PCC The 999 scramble came after he was spotted with his legs dan- gling over the side of the crossing KENT Police plan to recruit 180 more officers in the coming year, using in Sittingbourne Road, at about funds raised by the Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Scott. 11.20am on February 6. Cars were diverted from the The PCC says the number of full- scene while Kent Police attended time officers in Kent will increase and handed the matter to British to 3,632, returning the force to 96% Transport Police. of its peak strength from a decade An eye-witness said: “He was a ago. big, young lad and a couple of On Wednesday, February 6, Mr people had him by the arms try- Scott’s budget plans were unani- mously approved by the Kent and ing to stop him from going over Medway Police and Crime Panel. SHOP the side of the bridge. They were As well as increasing officer gently talking to him. numbers, Kent Police’s 300 police “They or someone else eventu- community support officers have ally got him down and it made also again been protected. me think that there are people out UP TO 70% OFF Mr Scott told panel members at there in our community who the meeting in Maidstone: “Resi- need a bit of help. I felt sorry for dents want to see more police out the lad.” EX-FLOOR MODELS - CLEARANCE on the street and to pay for that I’m PCC Matthew Scott and Chief Constable Alan Pughsley British Transport Police were increasing the council tax by £2 a able to restrain the man and he month for an average band D warranted police constables next what incidents they are going to be END OF LINE - BULK STOCK was taken away. property. This has been supported year. going to, what challenges they by 60% of people across more than “That is in addition to replacing might be facing, or what dangers Famous quiz 5,000 pieces of consultation feed- those who leave or retire, and en- they might be presented with. In- back.” ables us to retain the 270 additional creased demand pressures have THE Headcorn Scout Group's Adding that it was not a decision officers recruited since I was had an impact on them. "Famous Quiz Night" takes place taken lightly, the PCC said: “These elected in 2016.” “I believe this recruitment plan at the end of March. plans are not just about asking for Mr Scott stressed it would be sends an important message – that It happens at Egerton village more money. I’ve asked Kent Po- down to the Chief Constable to de- they are not alone. We understand hall on March 30. Teams of six are lice to continue their drive to be as termine exactly how and where what they are going through and SOFAS FROM £199 invited to take part and tickets are efficient and effective as possible, these additional officers would be we want to see extra colleagues £9 each which includes at hot without putting frontline services deployed. working alongside them and sup- meal and cake. Call Kevin Harper at risk. They will make £9.7million But Mr Scott said 90 would go porting them.” 01622 756659. of savings over the next year. into local policing roles and 90 into Kent Police Chief Constable Alan “This, combined with the use of crime investigation teams, to tackle Pughsley said: “We have already MATTRESSES FROM £79 reserves to continue the improve- issues like domestic abuse and sex- started to welcome our first intake Winter warmer ments we’ve seen in performance ual violence. of new officers, who were recruited THERE is one more chance to within the Force Control Room, He added: ‘They (officers and last year. Many of them have al- grab a warming bowl of soup, will enable the Chief Constable to staff) do tremendous work daily to ready started making a difference BEDS FROM £139 savouries and cake in the last of look to recruit another 180 fully- keep us all safe. They don’t know in the communities they serve.” the Winter Warmer village lunches in Hunton. Volunteers at the Hunton Club, BEDROOM FURNITURE FROM £49 in Bensted Close, will be serving Inspection praise for care firm soup, gammon and cheeses, along CARERS offering personal help their responsibility to protect infection and cross-contamina- with refreshments and home- in the home to the elderly, de- people from harm and abuse. tion. The inspector also noted made cake from noon on Thurs- ALL AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY pendents and the disabled in The report noted: “Clients told that new staff sat an induction day, March 7, for a £6 donation to Maidstone have earned praise us they felt safe with staff from course and then worked along- WITHIN 5 WORKING DAYS St Mary’s Church and the club. from a Government inspector. MyLife Home Care Maidstone.” side experienced colleagues be- All welcome. No need to book. The Care Quality Commission Potential risks were mitigated fore working alone. visit our showroom Further details from visited MyLife Home Care on and contingency plans limited As well as having their as- [email protected]. the Ashford Road. It was provid- disruption to people’s care dur- sessed needs met, the CQC ing home help to 25 clients, in- ing emergency situations, such noted that clients also received Herculean hut cluding older adults, younger as bad weather. emotional support, adding: 15 Royal Star Arcade disabled adults, children and Staff were employed on the “Staff knew people well and SCOUTS in Headcorn have people with drug and alcohol is- basis that they were suitable to were aware of their likes, dis- Maidstone crammed the Labours of Hercules sues. work with people, and there was likes and personal histories. into their hut on Ulcombe Road. The CQC found good practices enough of them to fulfil people’s “People were treated with dig- The troop hosted K A Harper's 01622 296680 in operation across the board. assessed care needs. nity, respect and their privacy Kent popular play for three evening The inspection team found a reg- Medicines were administered was maintained. Staff were kind, performances between Thursday, istered manager in place and by trained staff and steps taken caring and promoted people’s Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5.30pm ME14 1JL February 21 and Saturday, Febru- trained staff who understood to protect others from any risk of independence.” ary 23.

Maidstone Weald March 2019 19 News downsmail.co.uk Dementia talk THE Alzheimer’s Society’s Liz Taylor will speak at a dementia Former council leader information session at Headcorn Surgery on Saturday, March 9. The event will guide visitors through aspects of the condition, Chris quits the Tories give advice on becoming a De- A FORMER Conservative bor- from A274 housing developments mentia Friend, and provide an ough council leader has resigned which KCC wanted to spend on opportunity for those affected to the party whip to become an in- surveys for a relief road. share their experiences. dependent. MBC is adamant the money goes The session runs from 10am to Chris Garland, pictured, who towards accommodating road noon. represents Shepway North, was in amendments. Leader Martin Cox charge from 2008 until 2014 when and his chief executive Alison Ramble at Rye the Tories held a working majority Broom claim they have taken the at the authority. action to provide “clarity” on the HEADCORN'S Footpaths Group He did not see eye to eye group issue of S106 money disposal. has a six-mile hike planned leader, John Perry, over Maidstone The Liberal Democrat-led coun- around the ancient harbour of Borough Council’s decision to take cil is now wedded to the concept of Rye. Ramblers should meet at the Kent County Council to the High “modal shift” to mitigate against War Memorial in Headcorn High Court over the spending of devel- the tens of thousands of extra cars Street on Sunday, April 7, 10am, oper contributions (or S106 cash). expected on the roads because of for transport by car. Cllr Perry said: “I have huge re- payer picks up the tab, he said. MBC’s 17,600 new home allocation Walkers should ensure they have spect for Chris but he has decided Cllr Perry added: “We have got a in the Local Plan. This is likely to adequate footwear. Call Chris Dut- to join the independents. He does pretty solid group at the moment. increase to 25,000 houses when the ton on 01622 890142 for details. not like my stance on the judicial There are some who may have had plan is reviewed. review, in that I want it put on hold difficult dealings with KCC in the MBC’s management hopes and for the leaderships of both au- past and that has shaped their modal shift will persuade mo- Craft show thorities to speak to each other. thinking. But I have come pretty torists to walk, cycle and use buses. THE Weald of Kent Rotary Club “I owe Chris a great deal as he fresh from the outside with virtu- Cllr Cox admitted to Downs Mail holds an art and craft exhibition persuaded me to become a bor- ally no baggage and I have taken last year that he was not “100% and sale at Sutton Valence School ough councillor a few years back.” the view that I have taken.” sure” that modal shift will work. on April 13 and 14. Details from But no matter who wins the ar- MBC challenged KCC over Cllr Garland was approached for wealdofkentrotary.org.uk gument at the High Court, the tax- £200,000 in S106 contributions a comment. He did not respond.

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20 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Dementia talk Spirited night THE Alzheimer’s Society’s Liz VICTORIA’S cabaret club near Maidstone throws its doors open to Empty homes penalty Taylor will speak at a dementia Former council leader information session at Headcorn the spirit world in March. Surgery on Saturday, March 9. International clairvoyants The event will guide visitors Pauline Mason and Tracy Fance through aspects of the condition, Chris quits the Tories will give an evening of readings at could hit sellers hard give advice on becoming a De- A FORMER Conservative bor- from A274 housing developments the club on the A20 on Friday, mentia Friend, and provide an ough council leader has resigned which KCC wanted to spend on March 1 until 11pm. HOMEOWNERS whose proper- the assumption that absent owners opportunity for those affected to the party whip to become an in- surveys for a relief road. One-to-one readings will also be ties stand empty and unfurnished used fewer public services than share their experiences. dependent. MBC is adamant the money goes available to book on the night, with will have a hefty “penalty tax” residents. The session runs from 10am to Chris Garland, pictured, who towards accommodating road the girls’ team of readers for £20. levied against them, Maidstone But Mr McGinnes said offering noon. represents Shepway North, was in amendments. Leader Martin Cox Doors open at 7pm. The per- Borough Council has ruled. discounts meant other taxpayers charge from 2008 until 2014 when and his chief executive Alison formance starts at 7.30pm. The authority, which already had to pick up the bill. Ramble at Rye the Tories held a working majority Broom claim they have taken the Tickets are £10. Call 01622 859331 charges a 50% premium for build- Councillor Patrik Garten (pic- at the authority. action to provide “clarity” on the to book. ings unoccupied for two years or tured) said there are currently 143 HEADCORN'S Footpaths Group He did not see eye to eye group issue of S106 money disposal. more, will hike up bills from April. properties in the borough paying a has a six-mile hike planned leader, John Perry, over Maidstone The Liberal Democrat-led coun- Owners should expect to be hit 50% premium. But he was around the ancient harbour of Borough Council’s decision to take cil is now wedded to the concept of Sister Act date with a 100% premium after two adamant that, far from generating Rye. Ramblers should meet at the Kent County Council to the High “modal shift” to mitigate against BRING some halleluiah into your years, 200% after five and 300% extra income, the council would be War Memorial in Headcorn High Court over the spending of devel- the tens of thousands of extra cars life with the Gospel Touch Choir’s after 10. “shooting ourselves in the foot by Council officials believe the raising the penalty tax any higher”. Street on Sunday, April 7, 10am, oper contributions (or S106 cash). expected on the roads because of tribute to the movie Sister Act at move will tackle pressures on He feared that legal wording for transport by car. Cllr Perry said: “I have huge re- payer picks up the tab, he said. MBC’s 17,600 new home allocation Maidstone Leisure Centre. housing stocks as well as local gov- price and steps taken to sell the around properties being “substan- Walkers should ensure they have spect for Chris but he has decided Cllr Perry added: “We have got a in the Local Plan. This is likely to The MOBO award-winning ernment finance. property were reasonable. This tially unfurnished” would see adequate footwear. Call Chris Dut- to join the independents. He does pretty solid group at the moment. increase to 25,000 houses when the choir will be giving powerful solos ton on 01622 890142 for details. not like my stance on the judicial There are some who may have had plan is reviewed. But, crucially, councillors chose would be complex and adminis- “people running off to IKEA to put and energetic performances of hits review, in that I want it put on hold difficult dealings with KCC in the MBC’s management hopes not to exempt people struggling to tratively onerous.” a bit of furniture in”, as a ruse to including Joyful, Joyful and Danc- and for the leaderships of both au- past and that has shaped their modal shift will persuade mo- sell their homes. The council’s latest move has dodge a council tax hike. Craft show thorities to speak to each other. thinking. But I have come pretty torists to walk, cycle and use buses. ing In The Street, from 6.30-9pm, Stephen McGinnes, the council’s been prompted by the Govern- Despite his reservations, council- THE Weald of Kent Rotary Club “I owe Chris a great deal as he fresh from the outside with virtu- Cllr Cox admitted to Downs Mail on Saturday, April 6. Special guests director of Mid Kent Services, said: ment’s introduction of regulations lors voted 12 to one in favour of the holds an art and craft exhibition persuaded me to become a bor- ally no baggage and I have taken last year that he was not “100% will include Jermain Jackman, “This option would require inves- that grant local authorities the dis- increase. and sale at Sutton Valence School ough councillor a few years back.” the view that I have taken.” sure” that modal shift will work. from The Voice. tigation as to how long properties cretion to increase penalties. The current standard council tax on April 13 and 14. Details from But no matter who wins the ar- MBC challenged KCC over Cllr Garland was approached for Doors open at 6pm. Call the have been on the market and a Historically, empty properties charge for a Band D property in the wealdofkentrotary.org.uk gument at the High Court, the tax- £200,000 in S106 contributions a comment. He did not respond. leisure centre on 01622 220232. judgement as to whether the sale enjoyed council tax discounts on borough is £1,735.24.

Juniors Day Nursery are excited to announce the opening of a new full-time day care nursery in Headcorn, from January 2019.

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 21 News downsmail.co.uk Lorry park sites surveyed THE prospect of a huge post-Brexit lorry park being built on arable land is now a step closer, Downs Mail has learned. Ecological surveys have been make and see how keen they really carried out on some plots identi- are to meet us?” fied as sites for the 250-300 acre Platts Heath resident Kathy truck stop, which lie a few miles Hales said: “There have been re- from the M20 between ports of Highways England send- and . ing letters to residents with Highways England’s interest in requests to conduct surveys in land emerged last summer, when their gardens. There are a lot of landowners were contacted di- people who are now wondering rectly to be told the agency was what on earth is going on. looking to “reduce traffic conges- “Others are fretting about the tion caused by periods of cross- house prices and being able to Channel disruption”. move if they needed to.” Little is known at this stage, ex- At a residents’ meeting last July, cept that some ecological surveys farmer Sally Alexander said: “I have been completed, and a short- don’t trust Highways England to list of sites is now being drawn up. do what they say they’ll do – in the Boughton Malherbe parish clerk Sally Alexander and local county councillor Shellina Prendergast at last end, they’ll do what they want.” Chris Hume told Downs Mail: MP Helen Whately was unavail- summer’s residents’ meeting “It’s fair to say that it has gone able for comment. quiet, but it most definitely has not “So that is what we are waiting A representative of HE was due Highways England did not re- gone away. for – to see if we’re on the short- to attend, but had to pull out at the spond to our request for details “Before Christmas, HE were list.” last moment. about the search for land or sur- doing surveys on land in our A public meeting of residents – Adam Jenkins wrote on Face- veys carried out. parish, in the Liverton Street area, attended by the Campaign to Pro- book: “A shame Highways Eng- Last year, the agency claimed and we have been told the next tect Rural England and the Kent land were ‘unable’ to attend. that there were “dozens” of sites step is to hand a shortlist of sites to Wildlife Trust – was held in Platts Perhaps we might ask them for an under consideration in Kent and the Government. Heath on February 8. alternative date that they could the South East. Whaleofatime YOUNGSTERS were able to con- Enjoywalking sider the pros and cons of being swallowed by a whale when they and a lunch discussed the Biblical story of A VILLAGE fund-raising Jonah at Headcorn’s Messy event has been organised in Church on Saturday, February Hunton in the hope that it 23. will appeal to just about The young parishioners also en- everyone. joyed crafts, games, stories and The organisers of the Vil- tea during the two-hour session lage Walk and Lunch at the at Andred Hall. Hunton Club will be raising money to finish the kitchen at the Bensted Lane venue Revenge quiz and to upgrade the toilets THE Friends of Headcorn Church Ram raid ATM replaced there. are plotting the “Reverend's Re- THREE months after an audacious Family and friends are wel- venge” quiz to raise cash for wor- ram raid theft of Headcorn’s only come to join the circular walk thy causes. 24/7 cash machine, the ATM has which starts from the club at The brain-straining quiz night been replaced. 10.50am on April 7, and lasts at Andred Hall starts at 7.30pm The Sainsbury’s Bank cashpoint about an hour-and-a-half. on Saturday, March 6. was ripped out of the supermarket’s Those who do not fancy the Tickets are £5 each from Head- wall in November by criminals using walk can help prepare the corn Deli or Sweet William a crane and a loading vehicle. meal or relax at the club and Florists. They sped off towards the aero- join walkers for lunch at drome at about midnight on No- 12.30pm. Donations of £6 are vember 19. The crane was left in situ. requested. Advice date Local people said that they had Those interested in offer- SPECIALISTS from Maidstone earlier tried to use the ATM only to ing their culinary skills by Citizens’ Advice will be at Head- find it was unable to dispense, per- providing a dish for the day, corn Library on Tuesday, April 2, haps because it had run out of cash. as well as those who want to to answer questions from vil- But the supermarket has now re- reserve a place or report any lagers. placed the service. During shop special dietary needs should The drop-in session runs from hours, locals were able to use the email lesley.a.lee@btinter- 1.15pm to 3.15pm. Call 01622 cash dispenser at the Post Office. net.com. 752420 for more details.

22 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Driver refused Drunk fined for abuse Lorry park sites surveyed A DRUNKEN Maidstone man stumbled into a shop shouting THE prospect of a huge post-Brexit lorry park being built on arable land is now a step closer, abuse at a female member of staff as he tried to buy Lucozade, a Downs Mail has learned. breathalysers court heard. Ecological surveys have been make and see how keen they really A SINGLE mother twice refused led to depression. He told the court Father of one Matthew Charles carried out on some plots identi- are to meet us?” to give a breath sample when she that Griffiths was initially confused Jones (33), of London Road, bel- fied as sites for the 250-300 acre Platts Heath resident Kathy was stopped by police after a as to why police stopped her, but lowed “I’m going to **** you up” truck stop, which lie a few miles Hales said: “There have been re- night out clubbing, a court heard. admitted to having two drinks. when she refused to serve him. from the M20 between Sandway ports of Highways England send- Yvonne Griffiths (30), of Milton Mr Fernando said: “She just James Nichols, prosecuting, told and Boughton Malherbe. ing letters to residents with Street, Maidstone, was suspected wanted some more information be- the court Jones tripped as he en- Highways England’s interest in requests to conduct surveys in of drink driving after officers fore agreeing to the test. But she tered Broadway Express land emerged last summer, when their gardens. There are a lot of pulled her over in Holland Road at fully accepts that she was wrong in newsagents in Maidstone at 9am landowners were contacted di- people who are now wondering about 4am on a Monday. refusing to give the sample.” on December 30. rectly to be told the agency was what on earth is going on. Prosecuting, James Nichols told He said his client would take the The court heard Jones had been looking to “reduce traffic conges- “Others are fretting about the the court Griffiths was stopped as drink-driver rehabilitation course – out drinking in a club the night be- tion caused by periods of cross- house prices and being able to she walked away from the vehicle. which can reduce the length of ban fore, and went into the newsagents order, Jones does not have the Channel disruption”. move if they needed to.” When challenged by police, she re- by a quarter – so that she can better to buy a Lucozade. same tolerance for alcohol.” Little is known at this stage, ex- At a residents’ meeting last July, fused to be breathalysed. understand the dangers in future. Defending, Victoria Hart told the The court heard Jones lives cept that some ecological surveys farmer Sally Alexander said: “I Officers recalled her appearing Chairman of the bench, Jean court: “He did not approach this alone in a council flat, and is un- have been completed, and a short- don’t trust Highways England to intoxicated, with glazed eyes and Sanderson said: “What makes this lady, although admits his behav- employed due to an inherited list of sites is now being drawn up. do what they say they’ll do – in the smelling strongly of alcohol. When matter more serious is that you iour was inappropriate. Alcohol is spinal condition. not a problem for him, and his Miss Hart said his medication Boughton Malherbe parish clerk Sally Alexander and local county councillor Shellina Prendergast at last end, they’ll do what they want.” she was taken to Maidstone police twice refused to give a specimen – Chris Hume told Downs Mail: MP Helen Whately was unavail- station, she again refused to pro- first at the roadside then again at night out was a one-off.” had caused liver damage and he summer’s residents’ meeting “It’s fair to say that it has gone able for comment. vide officers with a breath sample. the police station. This was a delib- Jones has a previous conviction was diagnosed with depression. quiet, but it most definitely has not “So that is what we are waiting A representative of HE was due Highways England did not re- Defending, Peter Fernando said: erate refusal to co-operate with po- in June 2013, when he was ar- Chairman of the bench, Jean gone away. for – to see if we’re on the short- to attend, but had to pull out at the spond to our request for details “Mrs Griffiths’ record shows she is lice which puts this case in the rested for a common assault for Sanderson, said: “Walking into that “Before Christmas, HE were list.” last moment. about the search for land or sur- a woman of previous good charac- higher (sentencing) category.” which he received a two-year com- shop undoubtedly caused a lot of doing surveys on land in our A public meeting of residents – Adam Jenkins wrote on Face- veys carried out. ter. She is a single parent to a nine- Griffiths admitted to failure to munity order and alcohol treat- harm. Staff are not in shops to be parish, in the Liverton Street area, attended by the Campaign to Pro- book: “A shame Highways Eng- Last year, the agency claimed and an eight-year-old.” provide a specimen for analysis ment. sworn at.” and we have been told the next tect Rural England and the Kent land were ‘unable’ to attend. that there were “dozens” of sites Mr Fernando said that Griffiths on December 10 and her case was Miss Hart continued: “Since this Jones was given a fine of £235. step is to hand a shortlist of sites to Wildlife Trust – was held in Platts Perhaps we might ask them for an under consideration in Kent and had had other problems which had adjourned to be sentenced later. the Government. Heath on February 8. alternative date that they could the South East. Whaleofatime YOUNGSTERS were able to con- Enjoywalking sider the pros and cons of being swallowed by a whale when they and a lunch A great experience discussed the Biblical story of A VILLAGE fund-raising Jonah at Headcorn’s Messy event has been organised in Church on Saturday, February Hunton in the hope that it “We are new advertisers from 2018, our 23. will appeal to just about experience has been great. We couldn't believe The young parishioners also en- everyone. joyed crafts, games, stories and The organisers of the Vil- the response we had from the publication. tea during the two-hour session lage Walk and Lunch at the at Andred Hall. Hunton Club will be raising money to finish the kitchen Lovely people to deal with, very efficient, we would at the Bensted Lane venue strongly recommend anyone to give it a go.” Revenge quiz and to upgrade the toilets THE Friends of Headcorn Church Ram raid ATM replaced there. are plotting the “Reverend's Re- THREE months after an audacious Family and friends are wel- Helen Yourston venge” quiz to raise cash for wor- ram raid theft of Headcorn’s only come to join the circular walk Director, B2B Events thy causes. 24/7 cash machine, the ATM has which starts from the club at The brain-straining quiz night been replaced. 10.50am on April 7, and lasts An at Andred Hall starts at 7.30pm about an hour-and-a-half. V tiques, The Sainsbury’s Bank cashpoint intage & on Saturday, March 6. was ripped out of the supermarket’s Those who do not fancy the Collecto rs Fa Response you can believe in. Tickets are £5 each from Head- wall in November by criminals using walk can help prepare the Up to 300 exhibitor ir & outside offering sa inwide tw oran buildingg s corn Deli or Sweet William meal or relax at the club and vintag , marquees a crane and a loading vehicle. e, retro and collectablee of antiques , join walkers for lunch at s Florists. They sped off towards the aero- Sat 12th & Sun 13th. Call our sales team now 12.30pm. Donations of £6 are drome at about midnight on No- Januar vember 19. The crane was left in situ. requested. y 2019 Advice date Cash onl Local people said that they had Those interested in offer- Saturday: y entrance: Saturday: 8.30am (early entr SPECIALISTS from Maidstone ing their culinary skills by Sunday 10am - 4.30pm y) - £6 earlier tried to use the ATM only to : 01622 630330 10am - 3.30pm - £5 providing a dish for the day, Kent County Sho - £4 Citizens’ Advice will be at Head- find it was unable to dispense, per- y Detling wground, , ME14 3JF corn Library on Tuesday, April 2, haps because it had run out of cash. as well as those who want to . f entr £1 of oduction tof originaler to answer questions from vil- reserve a place or report any on pr adv But the supermarket has now re- Tel: 01636 67653 lagers. placed the service. During shop special dietary needs should www.b2bev 1 Mid Kent Living Spring Edition deadline 11th ents.info The drop-in session runs from hours, locals were able to use the email lesley.a.lee@btinter- March 2019. Book now to avoid disappointment. 1.15pm to 3.15pm. Call 01622 cash dispenser at the Post Office. net.com. 752420 for more details.

Maidstone Weald March 2019 23 News downsmail.co.uk Town to get stroke unit Pre-school celebrates HEALTH bosses have earmarked Maidstone Hospital as a site for one of the county’s three new an outstanding rating hyper acute stroke units. In a decision announced on A PRE-SCHOOL based in a vil- and gratitude to the staff for the February 14, the NHS said Her- lage hall, where laughter is al- support they offer to children and mitage Lane would join Dart- ways part of the lesson, has the whole family.” ford’s Darent Valley and earned a glowing inspection re- The pre-school has 57 children, Ashford’s William Harvey hospi- port from the education standards aged between two and five, on its tals to provide 21st century spe- watchdog, Ofsted. roll with 25 places available. The cialist care. Cherubs Preschool in Linton Hill inspection took place on February The decision comes after a five- gained an “outstanding” rating in 1. year review of urgent stroke serv- all four categories. When Ofsted visited Cherubs in ices, led by local specialists. Inspectors noted that children 2016, it achieved a “good” rating. It The new service will give pa- spend “much of their time laugh- has been running for 16 years. tients expert care for 72 hours ing with their friends and staff” Of the Ofsted inspection, after a stroke, as well as providing and are deemed to be “extremely mother-of-two Mrs Fox (49), of clinics for assessing and treating motivated learners”. Bearsted Green, said: “We really transient ischaemic attacks or Leadership was described as “in- smashed it out of the park that day! mini strokes. spirational” and parents heap teaching/learning, personal devel- It means a lot to us. Rachel Jones, director for the “tremendous praise and gratitude” opment/behaviour and outcomes. “I am so pleased for everybody Kent and Medway Stroke Re- on staff. Inspector Liz Caluori said: “Staff connected to Cherubs, not least the view, said: “We undertook an ex- Cherubs’ workers display “a make superb use of humour, en- staff, who are brilliant and very tensive public consultation, very strong commitment to self- abling children to try new things flexible. involving thousands of people.” evaluation and ongoing improve- without any fear of failure. This “The secret is for us to be flexible The NHS anticipates the new ment to the overall quality of supports children to gain valuable for the parents and to be personal stroke service will begin at Maid- service”. learning as they discover through and family-orientated. For in- stone and Darent Valley hospitals The pre-school, run by Cindy repeated trial and error.” stance, we keep a couple of places in a year’s time, and at William Fox (pictured) and held at the vil- She added: “Partnerships with open each evening in case one of Harvey Hospital in the spring of lage hall in Linton, achieved out- parents are highly effective. Par- our parents has a drama overnight 2021. standing grades in leadership, ents express tremendous praise and they need our help.”

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24 Maidstone Weald March 2019 News downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk News Town to get Floral lunch LANGLEY’S St Mary’s Church has Pre-school celebrates ‘Modal shift is not the served up ‘Soup and Snowdrops’ stroke unit for parishioners. HEALTH bosses have earmarked The Sutton Road church show- Maidstone Hospital as a site for cased its collection of the hardy one of the county’s three new an outstanding rating answer to rat-running’ winter flowers while plying visi- hyper acute stroke units. tors with homemade soup and In a decision announced on A PRE-SCHOOL based in a vil- and gratitude to the staff for the FUMING motorists are turning bread. The event on Saturday, Feb- February 14, the NHS said Her- lage hall, where laughter is al- support they offer to children and narrow country lanes into rat-runs ruary 9 has been running for seven mitage Lane would join Dart- ways part of the lesson, has the whole family.” as they try to circumvent gridlock years to raise funds for the church. ford’s Darent Valley and earned a glowing inspection re- The pre-school has 57 children, on the borough’s primary routes. Bryan Hillman Ashford’s William Harvey hospi- port from the education standards aged between two and five, on its Villagers have told Downs Mail discusses his tals to provide 21st century spe- watchdog, Ofsted. roll with 25 places available. The how single track roads are being concerns with Stitch success cialist care. Cherubs Preschool in Linton Hill inspection took place on February choked by vehicles unable to pass county SUE Wood had top place sewn up The decision comes after a five- gained an “outstanding” rating in 1. each other. Others say drivers put councillor when she beat allcomers at all four categories. When Ofsted visited Cherubs in their foot down once they’ve es- year review of urgent stroke serv- Paulina WI’s embroidery competition. ices, led by local specialists. Inspectors noted that children 2016, it achieved a “good” rating. It caped congestion, and use bad- Her depiction of a house was fol- Stockell in The new service will give pa- spend “much of their time laugh- has been running for 16 years. tempered manoeuvres. lowed by Rachel Kirkham’s work tients expert care for 72 hours ing with their friends and staff” Of the Ofsted inspection, Residents in Loose and Cox- Loose of birds and flowers by a stream in after a stroke, as well as providing and are deemed to be “extremely mother-of-two Mrs Fox (49), of heath say they feel aggrieved that be done to slow traffic down and “Drivers are like water,” she second place. clinics for assessing and treating motivated learners”. Bearsted Green, said: “We really housing developments have stop HGVs using these narrow said. “If roads are blocked, they Glen Brace’s 50-year-old sampler transient ischaemic attacks or Leadership was described as “in- smashed it out of the park that day! pushed traffic into their lanes be- roads, such as Well Street.” will inevitably find another route. took third place. The March 12 mini strokes. spirational” and parents heap teaching/learning, personal devel- It means a lot to us. cause inadequate provision has Simon Webb, a traffic cam- “Hourly buses are never going to meeting will include a beetle drive. Rachel Jones, director for the “tremendous praise and gratitude” opment/behaviour and outcomes. “I am so pleased for everybody been made for cars. paigner from Coxheath, added: replace the convenience of having Kent and Medway Stroke Re- on staff. Inspector Liz Caluori said: “Staff connected to Cherubs, not least the They cite the roads around Well “We want to see developers con- a car. The roads are too dangerous view, said: “We undertook an ex- Cherubs’ workers display “a make superb use of humour, en- staff, who are brilliant and very Street as becoming rat-runs for sider the long-term impact of being to cycle or walk. Call for help tensive public consultation, very strong commitment to self- abling children to try new things flexible. traffic trying to avoid increasing connected with these small lanes, “There is no alternative to the car CHART Sutton’s Shop on the involving thousands of people.” evaluation and ongoing improve- without any fear of failure. This “The secret is for us to be flexible delays at the Linton Crossroads. and more emphasis at the planning when you have limited time to Green has put out an appeal for The NHS anticipates the new ment to the overall quality of supports children to gain valuable for the parents and to be personal Former police officer, Bryan Hill- stage on avoiding rat-running.” drop the children off at school, or more volunteers. stroke service will begin at Maid- service”. learning as they discover through and family-orientated. For in- man, said: “As a long-time resident Staplehurst borough councillor get into Maidstone or go to work. The community enterprise says stone and Darent Valley hospitals The pre-school, run by Cindy repeated trial and error.” stance, we keep a couple of places of Loose village, I know first-hand Louise Brice, says both county and “Modal shift isn’t an answer. It’s that, without more recruits, it will in a year’s time, and at William Fox (pictured) and held at the vil- She added: “Partnerships with open each evening in case one of how dangerous these areas can be- borough planners need to tackle getting harder for people to leave have to restrict opening hours. For Harvey Hospital in the spring of lage hall in Linton, achieved out- parents are highly effective. Par- our parents has a drama overnight come. We want to work with the the issues and consider the infra- their own villages because of the more information, contact Chris on 2021. standing grades in leadership, ents express tremendous praise and they need our help.” highways officers to see what can structure. congestion on our streets.” 01622 842629. Business Focus Family Funeral Service brings its personal service to Headcorn

Family Funeral that has been helping families in the area for making funeral arrangements we have learned Service brings its 40 years. how to help families have and be part of a personal service to Michael Lawrence said: “We are pleased our meaningful service that celebrates life. Headcorn branch in Headcorn High Street is now open. “Our approach is simple. We sit with you in FAMILY Funeral We’ve worked hard to ensure the premises is our office or your home, taking you slowly and Service has opened sympathetic to the village conservation area, methodically through the various decisions a new base in with help from Nick Prior, at Woodland that you will face and the options available to Headcorn, offering Carpentry, and provides a comfortable you. Sometimes, it’s just good to sit its friendly service environment in which people can relax and talk and talk to someone with to even more through their needs. experience and compassion people across the “Jo will be our lady on hand to help before making a decision.” Maidstone area. families looking to arrange a fitting tribute Contact Family Funerals on The family for their loved ones. I will also be there daily Bearsted 01622 260200 or in owned, and family run business offers a to meet families and help with their Headcorn on 01622 962001. personalised approach, with the option of requirements and wishes.” home visits and access to a friendly voice at To meet his new business commitment, the end of the telephone 24 hours a day. Michael has recently moved to Headcorn. He Already operating out of Bearsted, Family added: “The loss of a loved one is never easy to Funeral Service is run by Michael Lawrence and cope with, and the added stress of making his son Robert, along with Kim and Angela - the arrangements can often bring further team behind the third-generation business emotional upset. With our experience of

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 25 News downsmail.co.uk Party aackers Uninsured cars seized KENT Police officers have successfully seized eight cars since the begin- ning of the year in a drive to improve the safety of residents and visitors to the town and surrounding villages. appear at court These included a Ford Transit seized in Station Road, Headcorn, on January 17, a Fiat Punto stopped and seized in Romney Place on Janu- TWO drunk horse racing enthusi- when one of their party was ary 18 and a Mercedes 220 checked in Mill Street and seized on Janu- asts avoided jail for kicking a grabbed and held over a balcony. ary 22. pensioner in the ribs and hitting The defence lawyer said: “There Inspector Gia- a mother in front of her children was a great deal of provocation and comino Vail said after a day a sinking pints, a court excessive self-defence, they would in some instances heard. contend.” the uninsured The men, both members of the The court heard Collins recently drivers were travelling community, invaded a started a tarmacking job whileAck- found to have private 70th birthday party at a so- leton hopes to get a roofing job. committed addi- cial club after a dispute in the smok- They come from stable families. tional driving of- ing area. Nathan Ackleton (18) and Probation officer Lauren Packham fences. James Collins (25) threw punches at said: “Mr Collins was remorseful Mr Vail said: party-goers when they tried to gate and took full responsibility for his “When the town crash the celebration in Ashford. part in the affray.” He said he was centre team are Prosecuting at Maidstone Magis- “ashamed” of his conduct in front of on patrol re- trates’ Court, James Nichols said young people as he had two chil- sponding to inci- they were seen hitting party-goers. dren of his own. dents of crime and disorder, they are always alert for drivers who are Another woman was hit in front Ackleton, who pleaded guilty to committing road traffic offences and potentially endangering others. of her children and an elderly man assault and affray, received a 12- “Some of the uninsured drivers have also been reported for offences was “kicked in the ribs”. month community order, told to including driving without a licence and failing to stop at a red traffic Ackleton, of Sittingbourne, and perform 120 hours of unpaid work light. Collins, of Ulcombe, left the scene as and pay £285. “Law-abiding road users and pedestrians are put at unnecessary risk police arrived. Collins received the same sen- by those who flout the law and we are committed to repeatedly tar- Isobel Corrigan, defending, said tence but must do 150 hours unpaid geting these drivers to make the roads safer. the pair remembered little of the work and a rehabilitation activity “Our message is simple, if you drive uninsured be prepared to have fighting itself. They claimed there programme for assault, affray and your vehicle seized and face a significant fine.” was provocation from the other side criminal damage.

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26 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk News ‘Let’s talk’ to Post worker drove home travellers call THE leader of Maidstone Bor- ough Council’s Conservative drunk from a night shift group has urged Government to talk to travellers in a bid to devise ROYAL Mail bosses has launched an investigation after a worker was effective planning guidance for gipsy sites. caught twice the legal alcohol limit at the wheel of his car. With imminent appeal hearings Dean English (61) of Cornwall half six in the morning is when in Maidstone that could approve Close, Shepway, had driven home most people would be driving another dozen caravans in Staple- after a night shift at work. into work. hurst on the Marden and Fritten- He was pulled over by police in “You have not only put your den roads, John Perry estimates his blue Ford Fiesta near his home own life at risk, but also the lives there are 50 pitches in his ward. at 6.30am, after he finished work. of innocent pedestrians and driv- “The majority of these are the He appeared at Maidstone ers on the road.” result of retrospective applica- magistrates court on February 22, English admitted the offences tions that have seen the number where he admitted being drunk and was disqualified from driv- of gipsy and traveller sites in the in charge of the vehicle on Sep- ing for 18 months, with a £569 area grow exponentially,” he said. tember 20, 2018. fine. “There needs to be a proper de- English, who has worked at He has been married for 42 bate about effective regulation Royal Mail for more than 30 years, with two daughters, and that can be fairly applied. All too years, was breathtested at the has worked at the Royal Mail often these sites are occupied and roadside and later failed a urine since 1987. approved retrospectively and test with a reading of 232mg – the Speaking at his home after the with inconsistency. We need to limit is 107mg. case, he admitted that he had work with the gipsy council to ad- Defending, Eleanor Scott been “foolish”. dress these issues fully.” Davies told the court: “Mr Eng- When we asked if his employ- “Working together is the way lish knows and admits that drink- ers knew about his drinking at to get appropriate legislation that represents the interests of both.” ing alcohol all night at work is Dean English was ‘foolish’ work, he replied: “No, not yet.” wrong. He added: “I have had a lot of Vhin O’Reachtighan, from the “Although he works in the let- The court heard English had time to reflect on all of this. It was Gipsy and Traveller Coalition, ters and packages section of the changed his shifts to the day time a foolish thing to have done.” said: “We are happy to talk but in- Royal Mail, meaning he does not rather than at night, as he “would A Royal Mail spokesman said: variably it just ends up being talk. deliver, this has really been a never drink during the day”. “Royal Mail does not comment on “Any government has to have wake-up call for him.” Chairman of the bench, Adrian individual court cases. We are car- an appetite to oblige councillors She said her client had not had Atmore, said: “We see the effects rying out an internal investigation to provide a fair amount of ac- a drink since before Christmas. of drink-driving every day, and into this matter.” commodation for travellers and overlook the planning regulations if travellers can provide for them- selves; this is what leads to unau- thorised camps. The current law unfairly discriminates travellers.” Funerals to be streamed live MOURNERS who cannot attend the funerals of their nearest and dearest will now be able to watch proceedings streamed live in a webcast. Maidstone’s Vinters Park Cre- matorium says it will broadcast services securely over the internet, allowing invited guests to view them from anywhere in the world. Sharon Smith, Maidstone Bor- ough Council's bereavement serv- ices manager, said: “For a growing number of reasons, live Mayor opens new play equipment webcasting is a service that more NEW equipment has been donated The new apparatus cost approx- shared between Ulcombe Parish are choosing. With an aging pop- to an outdoor playground in Ul- imately £20,000. Council and the borough and ulation, elderly family members combe. Cllr Naghi said: “I was delighted county councils. homebound, those who are sim- The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr to open this revamped play area. Cllr Naghi is pictured right, with ply not able to travel due to eco- David Naghi, unveiled the facilities It’s a fantastic facility and I am Peter Titchener, chairman of Ul- nomic conditions or perhaps at a celebration attended by par- sure it will be enjoyed for years to combe Parish Council, and children family who live abroad, offering ents and their children on February come.” enjoying the playground’s new webcasting is a way to include 16. The cost of the new kit was equipment. everyone regardless of their geo- graphic location.”

Maidstone Weald March 2019 27 T. 01622 433163 M. 07854 529 434

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Maidstone Weald March 2019 29 News | Health downsmail.co.uk Cancer targets Call for 999 investment A PERFORMANCE review of troubled South East Coast Ambulance Serv- ice is recommending additional investment by each of the budget-hold- ing NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in its area to recruit more staff and invest in vehicles. geing closer The service is still miss- ing most national targets but is closer to hitting the MAIDSTONE and the rest of target (seven minutes) for West Kent are still among the By Dennis Fowle the most urgent calls. worst areas in England at meet- Across its full area SE- Kent Clinical Commissioning ing national cancer targets – but CAmb is averaging 7.31 Group (CCG) says the recovery the strong drive towards im- minutes but in West Kent it plan by Maidstone and Tunbridge provements now appears to be is 8.08 minutes. Wells hospital trust “is expected producing results. The national standards to show a positive impact on per- The significant target for pa- for non-urgent calls are formance”. tients having definitive treatment two hours or three hours The trust has faced (and is within 62 days of an urgent GP re- but in West Kent SECAmb meeting) challenges on capacity, ferral improved to 68.52% in No- is hitting four hours and al- particularly on radiology staffing vember, compared with 62.14% in most six hours. October. This compares with a and diagnostic equipment, but national target of 85%. now is experiencing a significant The two-week target for pa- increase in demand due to patient tients to be seen by a consultant growth. The increase in two-week wait Brexit impact considered after an urgent GP referral im- THE risks to the local health scene as the UK leaves the EU are proved in November to 87.65% referrals to the trust is 22% com- pared with 13% nationally. being considered by the budget-holding NHS West Kent CCG. compared with 79.64% in Octo- Patients and clinicians could be warned not to stockpile med- ber. The national target is 93%. It has added clinics to meet this demand and is working with the ications and this may lead to 28-day prescribing for most pa- All patients who are referred tients, who will be asked to order only what they need. must go through the diagnostic CCG to prioritise patients with high-risk symptoms. This in- Traffic management may increase local traffic levels and im- process, but more than 90% of pact on NHS staff movements and service delivery. them will not be diagnosed with creased trend is expected to con- tinue and services need to be This is leading to risk assessments, an input in to Brexit traffic cancer. plans and proposals for specific solutions. The budget-holding NHS West planned to meet future growth.

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30 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk

Frank Brake bespoke metalwork. years where he and his late wife DorothFeraank BO b i t u a r e s rake bespoke metalwork. years where he and his late wife Dorothea O b i t u a r e s La�erly, he had his raised their children, Adrian, Helen and La�erly, he had his raised their children, Adrian, Helen and FRANK Brake (85) who died at the own kitchen and Martyn. FRANK Brake (85) who died at the own kitchen and Martyn. Pilgrim’s Hospice on his 85th birthday bathroom design He worked at East Malling ResearchPilgrim’s Hospice on his 85th birthday bathroom design He worked at East Malling Research was the last surviving brother of the Brake company. Station as a plant pathologist, having was the last surviving brother of the Brake company. Station as a plant pathologist, having Brothers food distribution company, Leon was father to studied plant sciences at Exeter and BriBstroolthers food distribution company, Leon was father to studied plant sciences at Exeter and Bristol established with his brothers William and Lorraine and twins, universities. established with his brothers William and Lorraine and twins, universities. Peter in 1958. Luke and Jerome. Married in 1957, Denis and DorotheaPeter in 1958. Luke and Jerome. Married in 1957, Denis and Dorothea The company, Leon’s sister Angela spent their first eight years in Uganda, The company, Leon’s sister Angela spent their first eight years in Uganda, established to supply said: “My brother East Africa, from 1958 to 1966 where Denis established to supply said: “My brother East Africa, from 1958 to 1966 where Denis poultry to caterers, was gentle and worked on coffee diseases and prevention. poultry to caterers, was gentle and worked on coffee diseases and prevention. became incorporated considerate, a compassionate person and became incorporated considerate, a compassionate person and in 1961. It became also a talented artist. He had a lifelong in 1961. It became also a talented artist. He had a lifelong involved in love of the music of Leonard Cohen and Jim McCarthy involved in love of the music of Leonard Cohen and Jim McCarthy distributing frozen followed Manchester United.” JAMES “Jim” McCarthy (81) lived in distributing frozen followed Manchester United.” JAMES “Jim” McCarthy (81) lived in foods in the 1960s Leon leaves his children and Maidstone for most of his life. Born in foods in the 1960s Leon leaves his children and Maidstone for most of his life. Born in and – after a granddaughters Julia and Emma. Dover, he was evacuated to Blackpool and – after a granddaughters Julia and Emma. Dover, he was evacuated to Blackpool floatation on the during the war before se�ling locally as a floatation on the during the war before se�ling locally as a Stock Exchange in boy and a�ending Southborough School. Stock Exchange in boy and a�ending Southborough School. the mid-80s – acquired other local Chris Tunbridge After national service in the Fleet Airthe mid-80s – acquired other local Chris Tunbridge After national service in the Fleet Air companies before the brothers sold their TRIBUTES have been paid to motorcycle Arm, Jim se�led into a career linked toclaowmpanies before the brothers sold their TRIBUTES have been paid to motorcycle Arm, Jim se�led into a career linked to law share of the company in 2002. mechanic Chris Tunbridge of Eyhorne and a life-long involvement in amateurshare of the company in 2002. mechanic Chris Tunbridge of Eyhorne and a life-long involvement in amateur By this time Peter Brake had died and Street, , after an inquest into boxing. By this time Peter Brake had died and Street, Hollingbourne, after an inquest into boxing. William’s health problems had left Frank his death. He worked for Sandell Perkins and William’s health problems had left Frank his death. He worked for Sandell Perkins and taking most of the business management Chris died in Reeds Paper Mill but joined the police itnaking most of the business management Chris died in Reeds Paper Mill but joined the police in responsibility. The company and Brake November, but a his 20s and rose to become a detective. rHeseponsibility. The company and Brake November, but a his 20s and rose to become a detective. He name continue in operation to the present recent inquest later became a probation officer in Wesnt ame continue in operation to the present recent inquest later became a probation officer in West day.. prompted tributes Kent. day.. prompted tributes Kent. Frank married Evelyn in 1959 and was praising him as a Jim was father to Simon. His wife, Frank married Evelyn in 1959 and was praising him as a Jim was father to Simon. His wife, father to Michelle, Phillip and Richard. A “great, funny guy.” Anne, said: “Jim said of his move fromftahteher to Michelle, Phillip and Richard. A “great, funny guy.” Anne, said: “Jim said of his move from the tribute site to Frank noted his Chris ran CT police to probation that he was much tribute site to Frank noted his Chris ran CT police to probation that he was much philanthropy and involvement in local life, Motorcycle Services be�er at saving souls. He was very mucphhailanthropy and involvement in local life, Motorcycle Services be�er at saving souls. He was very much a stating: “In his personal life, Frank made on Willow Industrial people person. stating: “In his personal life, Frank made on Willow Industrial people person. significant contribution to charities. Major Estate, Tyland Lane, “After retiring from probation, he spesnigtnificant contribution to charities. Major Estate, Tyland Lane, “After retiring from probation, he spent involvements included project leadership Maidstone, some time as general manager of the involvements included project leadership Maidstone, some time as general manager of the and matched funding for the building of specialising in the Amateur Boxing Association in Crystaland matched funding for the building of specialising in the Amateur Boxing Association in Crystal the Kent Multiple Sclerosis Therapy customising of bikes and restoration work. Palace. He was always full of jokes andthe Kent Multiple Sclerosis Therapy customising of bikes and restoration work. Palace. He was always full of jokes and Centre, significant contributions to He had had a passion for motorbikes since had done some amazing things. His wCasenatre, significant contributions to He had had a passion for motorbikes since had done some amazing things. His was a Parkinson’s UK and Cure Parkinson’s, his teenage years. life well lived” Parkinson’s UK and Cure Parkinson’s, his teenage years. life well lived” Ashford Pilgrim’s Hospice, and many He was well-known for taking his dog Jim leaves his wife and son. Ashford Pilgrim’s Hospice, and many He was well-known for taking his dog Jim leaves his wife and son. smaller local charities in Kent.” Meg to work with him. smaller local charities in Kent.” Meg to work with him. Frank leaves his wife, five grandchildren Chris’s packed funeral in December was Frank leaves his wife, five grandchildren Chris’s packed funeral in December was and one great-grandchild. helped by an online collection – organised Nick Staples and one great-grandchild. helped by an online collection – organised Nick Staples by friends and fellow motorcycle NICHOLAS “Nick” Staples (83) lived in by friends and fellow motorcycle NICHOLAS “Nick” Staples (83) lived in enthusiasts – which raised £3,500 towards Leybourne for the 61 years of his married enthusiasts – which raised £3,500 towards Leybourne for the 61 years of his married Leon Moodley his funeral costs. life and was formerly resident in West Leon Moodley his funeral costs. life and was formerly resident in West LEON Moodley (70) who has died in He leaves his long-term partner Karen Malling. LEON Moodley (70) who has died in He leaves his long-term partner Karen Malling. Edinburgh was born in Cape Town SA, Marie Rendle. Born in Beckenham he moved as a boEydinburgh was born in Cape Town SA, Marie Rendle. Born in Beckenham he moved as a boy but brought up locally. with his publican parents to Otford andbut brought up locally. with his publican parents to Otford and The eldest of six children, he a�ended moved again when his parents took overThe eldest of six children, he a�ended moved again when his parents took over St Francis School and Maidstone Denis Bu the Five Pointed Star in West Malling. St Francis School and Maidstone Denis Bu the Five Pointed Star in West Malling. Technical School for Boys before DENIS Jack Bu� OBE passed away Nick served in 45 Commando of the Technical School for Boys before DENIS Jack Bu� OBE passed away Nick served in 45 Commando of the a�ending Maidstone College of Art and peacefully at home with his children Royal Marines and went on to train as aa�ending Maidstone College of Art and peacefully at home with his children Royal Marines and went on to train as a Walthamstow College of Art. present. papermaker and follow a career that toWokalthamstow College of Art. present. papermaker and follow a career that took Leon spent many years as a maker of Denis lived in Loose for more than 50 in work in Aylesford and Gravesend as Leon spent many years as a maker of Denis lived in Loose for more than 50 in work in Aylesford and Gravesend as well as contracts abroad in Iran and South well as contracts abroad in Iran and South Africa Africa Nick was married to Hilda and father to Nick was married to Hilda and father to Chris, Kathryn and Michael. Chris said: Chris, Kathryn and Michael. Chris said: “My father was a Spurs supporter and Camrass Wills “My father was a Spurs supporter and took an interest in West Malling Football Advice you can trust took an interest in West Malling Football Club when I played for them. He loved Club when I played for them. He loved organising a reunion of his old friends Do you need help with probate? organising a reunion of his old friends from Otford Primary School, the reunions from Otford Primary School, the reunions a�racted up to 70 people including the Do you want to buy a funeral plan? a�racted up to 70 people including the former headmaster who only died former headmaster who only died recently, aged 105. • We offer help & advice • Home visits • All fees agreed before you proceed recently, aged 105. He was also very active in Snodland DipPFS MSWW He was also very active in Snodland Working Men’s Club” Working Men’s Club” Nick leaves his wife, children and 01622 720985 Nick leaves his wife, children and grandchildren Hannah, Chloe, Emily and www.camrasswills.co.uk grandchildren Hannah, Chloe, Emily and Patrick. Patrick.

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

Maidstone Weald March 2019 31 downsmail.co.uk

P thanked for his presentation and told he Bus pilot scheme Members discussed the a r i s h would be informed of the decision after pros and cons of the bus pilot scheme. Crime report There had been eight the meeting. Cllr Fi�Gerald was asked to respond to Call for the crimes in south ward (six thefts, one North ward Cllr Wilde was not at the the consultation on behalf of the parish C incident of criminal damage and one meeting. There had been a complaint council. The clerk was asked to write to o u n c i l s break-in) and four crimes in north ward about fly-tipping at Furfield Park. The Arriva about the punctuality and service (one theft, one incident of criminal clerk said larger items were being of the 59 bus. damage, one break-in and an a�empted brought in via the public right of way on Post office There had been a complaint break-in). Community warden Liz Lova� Brishing Road. The motorbike barrier about the reliability of the outreach post reported a large fly-tip at the junction of had been re-set by KCC but had been office in the Shop on the Green. The clerk Stilebridge Lane and Lower Farm Road. pushed apart by vandals before the was asked to write to the Post Office at Residents were reminded never to buy concrete had set. The clerk would report Headcorn in this regard. CollectionPrompt and sell at the door. Threatening this to KCC. Borough Cllr Ma� Burton Precept It was agreed to set the precept MAIDSTONE TREE SERVICES behaviour should be reported to Kent had agreed to look into covert CCTV at for 2019/20 at £22,000, an increase of Fast Police and Kent Trading Standards. Professional Tree Services this location but had not responded. £1,000 from the previous year. All D v Open quarter Residents expressed eli ery D.T Bus service The clerk said the new pilot members agreed, apart from Cllr D.T concern at construction traffic accessing bus service was due to start in June. Fi�Gerald, who proposed a £500 the Lyewood Farm site via Church Street Instead of three buses a day there would increase. and the west end of Green Lane. The be six, but four of the services would SKIPSKIP HIREHIRE clerk said this had been discussed with terminate at Morrisons, where Over 20 Years Experience the developer who had agreed to an passengers would have to change to get Coxheath approved access route via Heath Road to the town centre. Apart from the school New clerk The chairman introduced and the east end of Green Lane. 01622 753618 bus there would be no service along Irene Bowie, who would be taking over Residents asked for “No construction Heath Road to Linton crossroads, so no from Terry Ketley as the clerk to the traffic” signs on Church Street and Green T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 access to the new medical centre at parish council from April 1. In the Lane. Crest had agreed to this. Coxheath/Linton. meantime, she would work alongside Mr & 12 Yard Bins Speed limit Residents asked if the Adult fitness The WI was keen to get Ketley until his retirement. proposed 20mph zone in the village T Covering Maidstone involved in a project of some sort for the Crime report The clerk reported that could be extended along Green Lane to • Tree removal • Stump grinding benefit of residents. The clerk advised according to the nation Police website, no & The Weald the Lyewood Farm site entrance. The that they wished to discuss a community crimes had been commi�ed in Coxheath clerk advised that further speed surveys T EA Registered project in general, rather than adult during December 2018. However the • Hedge cutting • Tree reductions might be needed. Crest Nicholson were fitness equipment. The clerk would report also indicated that the total T Fast & Prompt Service open to the idea of extending the zone. arrange a meeting to take this forward. number of crimes in the Coxheath and Bin collection A resident said the T Commercial Hunton ward for 2018 was 286. It was felt previous week’s bin collection had left that a meeting with Kent Police was & Domestic large amounts of rubbish on the road in necessary. Church Street. The clerk would report it Chart Su�on 01622 296412 / 07590 408482 Community warden The monthly report to MBC (MBC had later advised that a Speeding A parishioner spoke about highlighted high levels of anti-social rogue refuse collection vehicle had been continued speeding along Chart Hill 01622 843511 [email protected] behaviour; further plans for coffee to blame, and had been spilling out Road, particularly during the rush hour mornings; working with the dog warden 01233 623721 www.maidstonetreeservices.co.uk waste. This had now been rectified). and at weekends, when high-powered Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ to discourage fouling; meeting parents at Li�er signage The Li�er Qui�ers group cars were being raced on the hill. The the primary school to discourage was asking for a grant of £5,000 for signs, speed limit had been reduced to 30mph inconsiderate parking and to encourage CCTV and bins. Cllr Ellis suggested that in 2016. Cllr Underdown agreed to look sharing vehicles and walking buses. a sub-group be set up to take this again at sites to see if the Speedwatch MedwayPos tbBlindox Royal Msail w&oul dCurtaininspect the s DO YOU NEED forward, with a budget of £4,000. This team could carry out sessions in this area. PAUL MILL village centre postbox and if necessary, Monumental was agreed. The clerk noted that there Police ma�ers PCSO Gardner said there would resolve the issue. It was agreed would be significant ongoing costs with had been three crimes: criminal damge in PLANNING PERMISSION OR that they should also be asked to inspect Stonemasons Television Ltd extra dog bins. Cobfields; a vehicle taken in Amber Lane the postbox at the junction of Stocke� Est. 1981 War memorial Cllr Brown said that the and vehicle interference in Mercer Way. BUILDING REGULATIONSEst. 1973 FOR AN Lane and Heathside Avenue. names from the school memorial would Speed checks were being carried out at Redundant play areas Cllr C Parker 01622 751000 be added to the memorial plaque in the reasonable intervals. It was noted that the EXTENSION,NAMM, BRAMM LOFT & NAMLC CONVERSION Registered reminded the council that it was village hall. Shop on the Green had been robbed at necessary to continue the process of New Memorials Tablets, Plaques & Vases Furfield Park New log seats were now knifepoint, leaving the volunteer unhurt OR EVEN A BRAND NEW HOME? • See the latest Panasonic LED, Latest 4K, Smart & arranging the takeover of the children’s ready for installation at the open space. but shaken. CCTV images had been play area in Whitebeam Drive and Cleaning, Renovation & Restoration , Steve Waring would do this. passed to the police. 3D Screens • Freeview play • Catch Up & On Fairhurst Drive as soon as possible. CALL US ON A shed with an asbestos roof Village clean-up It was agreed that the Allotments 0% Defibrillator Cllr Small repeated his Safety Inspections, Memorial Insurance spring clean-up should be carried out on Demand BBC iPlayer, ITV Player & 4oD • Your local had now been removed from the concern that there should be at least one 01622 812868 March 16, meeting at the vFinanceillage hall car allotment site by specialists, and the plot defibrillator in the village centre. It was Arranged, Free Brochures park at 10am. Available Sky expert, SKY HD, multiroom & “hidden” dish was ready to re-let. agreed that this subject would be added Football team The Loose Lions team had Precept It was agreed that the precept for to the agenda of the finance commi�ee OR GO TO asked to use the pitch on Saturday installation • Freeview & Freesat, Expert aerial, dish 2019/20 was set at £76,963 (£48.94 for a meeting. mornings next season. They would mark Telephone 01622 762482 band D home). Li�er bins Cllr Down said six bags of www.johnchilds.com out the pitch across the current pitch installation service • TV wall mounting service. New members There had been two li�er had been collected in the last using a different colour and would applications for the vacancy. Helen campaign from the northern end of 01233 636500 provide their own goals, which t01634hey 68 68 68 for our best prices EVER! Stevens was not at the meeting but had Stocke� Lane. He would welcome more Please phone us for free would store in the pavilion. It was agreed sent in a wri�en application. Toby 6 Thev oOaklunteesrs Buto josininhisessli�er -Villagpicking teea,m 01795 436178 that they should be offered the pitch at a friendly advice today Newcomb addressed the meeting and Lordswood,and fe lChathamt that a bin sho Kuldebnte s iME5ted nea r8LF said he wanted to tackle anti-social reduced fee of £250 for 12 matches for the the Londis store, perhaps funded by the 2 Sutton Road Maidstone Kent ME15 9AH www.paulmilltelevision.co.uk behaviour, housing and village identity. season. owner. 68 Kent Avenue Ashford Kent TN24 8NQ Bower Place Maidstone ME16 8BG He was also keen to initiate Boughton in Legion event It was agreed that the Dog fouling Cllr Skinner again www.medwayblinds.co.uk We pride ourselves on being a local business Bloom to encourage residents to make Royal British Legion could use the expressed concern over dog fouling on Howt Green Bobbing Sittingbourne Kent ME9 8QP the parish a nicer place. The vote was Memorial Playing Field on Saturday, offering outstanding service taken in private and Mr Newcomb was June 15 for an event. Continued on page 34 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 9am-noon

32 Maidstone Weald March 2019 Maidstone Weald March 2019 33

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MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 33

Maidstone Weald October 2017 33 downsmail.co.uk

P Continued from page 32 half the cost. The Almshouses Charity There were three vacancies. a r i s h pavements leading to the primary school. would be considering whether or not to Petrol thefts Drive-offs from petrol The ma�er would be raised again with fund any more defibrillators for the stations were still occurring, and there the community warden. village at its next meeting. had been li�le contact from Kent Police. C Precept As MBC had now published the Flood plan The clerk informed everyone They would continue to be reported. o u n c i l s council tax base it was appropriate to that, due to GDPR, she could not register Fire hydrants KFRS confirmed that 70% reduce the annual precept calculation for members with the Environment Agency of the inspection had been completed. 2019/20. It was agreed to reduce the to receive flood warnings, but she had The clerk asked that notification also precept request from £81,250 to £80,000. circulated instructions so that they would included details of future inspection Build-outs Concerns were raised again do it themselves. schedules and a map of the hydrants. about the state of the build-outs at either Communication It was agreed to Lenham Road Following an assessment, end of the village and the fact that some continue to use the existing website but MBC had confirmed that the li�er could road signs had been hit by large vehicles. to enhance its content and to trial the use be cleared using a rolling road block and Plaque Cllr Webb expected to learn soon of Facebook for six months. It was agreed the area had been picked in December. when the final version of the plaque to put £1,000 in the budget to cover any Highways The clerk was to arrange for a would be available for installation. It was costs. meeting with KCC Highways to discuss understood that Gordon Newton Car park The car park condition survey issues including construction at proposed to offer the plaque free of was circulated and it was agreed that Lee Hazelpits and the effect on Ulcombe charge. would be asked to do the bay marking Road Lane and Ta�lebury Lane. Window competition It was agreed that, after Easter, once the weather improved. Spires Ash MBC had confirmed that the rather than refurbish the old trophy for The increasing cost of maintenance was next step in the process towards village the Christmas shop window competition, discussed and it was agreed to talk to the green status was for a report to be that £40 be set aside for a new trophy. school head and cabinet member Roger compiled and presented at a Members Annual meeting This would be on May Gough asking for a meeting with a view Regulation Panel. The clerk would follow 21 or 22, depending on the availability of to ge�ing some funding from KCC this up. the Small Hall. Heart of Kent Hospice education department. Cricket and tennis club The club still would be approached to provide a Highways It was agreed to go ahead wished to meet with the parish council speaker. with the quote for a replacement pole for about the extension to existing facilities. Council grant Maidstone Borough the speed indicator device in Dean Street It was hoped to arrange this meeting Council had introduced a new system for at a cost of £1,548. This would be sited soon. calculating the Parish Services Scheme outside Horseshoes House. The clerk had Footpath delay The path from the Crest Grant for 2019/20. It seemed that the submi�ed an insurance claim for the Nicholson site to the footpath in Knights grant for Coxheath had increased from damaged/stolen one and this had been Way had been delayed for a gas main to £5,269 to £6,858. acknowledged. be fi�ed in that area. There was no Horsetrough It was agreed to chase the timescale for the work. However there headpiece with Gordon Newton at The was a proposal for an alternative East Farleigh Stone Shop. footpath linking the path at Hop Pocket HGVs The clerk had logged the request Footpaths It was reported that horses Way. for improved signage for HGVs at were using footpath KM32. The resident Station parking An inflationary increase Workhouse Lane with Highways. at Danebarn Lodge in Workhouse Lane in charges was being applied to all Car transporter The clerk had wri�en to had repaired the gate on footpath KM40. stations across the SouthEastern network. Williams about the car transporter issue The clerk would write to thank him. There were issues of pricing disparity and Williams had replied saying it was Play areas The inspection sheet was and this would be reviewed. The clerk not them and was more likely to be received. There was more dog fouling was asked to contact SouthEastern and Oakwoods Group Ltd. The clerk had along the railings of the play area. This ask that, given the disparity, the increase wri�en to Oakwoods. would be monitored. Members agreed did not apply at Headcorn. Play area The clerk had not yet obtained that they did not want to pursue SIPA Road name The council further discussed quotes for the remedial work in the play funding for the play areas, as funding the names for the road on the land area and it was agreed to re-examine the had to be matched and didn’t cover behind The Hardwicks and it was agreed report and find out how much work was maintenance. that it should be Spindle Close. actually critical. Parking The clerk had received Dog complaint A resident had reported correspondence, with photos, of vehicles an unpleasant experience with an Headcorn parking on the pavement at the north end aggressive dog on a footpath. It was Warden’s report The warden was unable of the High Street. It was agreed that the agreed to put something in the to be at the meeting. The report was clerk would contact KCC about the Grapevine reminding owners to keep discussed and members were concerned installation of a bollard in this location. their dogs on leads. about the issues raised about cold calling. Road ruts A parishioner had complained Hedge Cllr King would speak informally It was agreed that the clerk would issue about the state of Lenham Road and to the owner about an overgrown hedge publicity on the ma�er. Ulcombe Road. It was agreed that the in Lower Road. Police issues Kent Police said an clerk should acknowledge the concerns. Road surface Cllr Lloyd Porter asked the individual had been interviewed about May Fair The PTFA was again running parish council to ask KCC Highways to the incident of “donu�ing” on Days the May Fair and was seeking approval add Gallants Lane to their microsurfacing Green and the ma�er would not be from the council. It was agreed that Days schedule for 2019. It was agreed to do so. pursued further. The missing child was Green was available and facilities would Precept It was agreed to raise the precept now in the custody of social services and include the area next to the store to to £58,773, an increase of 18% on the posters could be taken down. The access water and electricity; the public previous year, due to increased community warden had reported an conveniences; the green itself and a maintenance and li�er picking costs. issue with a catapult at the White Horse banner promoting the event. Parsonage Defibrillator The clerk said the parish pub. Property had been damaged and it Meadow was available for parking and council had been granted £850 from had been reported to the police. rubbish could be left in the commercial County Cllr Paulina Stockell toward the New councillors Confirmation was bin for collection by the parish council. cost of the second defibrillator for awaited that the council could proceed Empty properties The clerk had received Gallants Lane. This represented just over with the co-option of new members. Continued on page 36

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P Continued from page 34 about speeding along Lancet Lane and speak to the PCSO. a r i s h information regarding the number of Anglesey Avenue, and a request for help S106 contributions MBC Cllr Burton had empty properties. It was agreed that from Speedwatch. After discussion it was sent the clerk a spreadsheet of the current some work would be undertaken to agreed that Cllr Rigby would apply for S106 contributions and this would be C an observation location. An appeal for checked against the list in the office.

o u n c i l s identify the percentage, so that any numbers put forward by MBC for volunteers had gone out in the Police report Three crimes had been housing need could be challenged. newsle�er. The deputy clerk would write reported since the last meeting – one theft to the school to advise of the complaint of a vehicle; one burglary and a theft and respond to the complainant. from a vehicle. Five reports of anti-social Linton Neighbourhood plan The examiner felt behaviour had been received. the document met all the requirements to Public convenience Four companies had Highways The chairman said a meeting be a bona fide submission. MBC felt more quoted for the contract and the clerk had was being arranged with Highways detail was needed. The examiner would prepared a report. All details were officer Jennie Watson to discuss make a site visit to Loose. reviewed and questions asked. outstanding issues. He spoke about an SMART There was no further detail on Youth provision A parent was interested accident that had happened due to the the proposed 20mph zones. Lighting in se�ing up a youth group to be held on bollards. He felt the vehicle had lost columns would be replaced in Loose two further evenings a week. A request control on a bend and the driver had hit a Road. There was no update on the for funding was agreed in principle, but telegraph pole. gyratory system. Plans for Wheatsheaf more detailed costings were needed. Budget The clerk circulated a draft junction were pending. Highways The improvement plan/action budget which was discussed. Cllr Smith Brooks Field shed The new shed had plan included the proposed single and proposed se�ing the 2019/20 precept at been approved by MBC but it was likely double yellow lines in the village, along £12,892, a 2.5% increase on the previous that nothing would happen until May at with School Keep Clear lines and bell year. This was agreed. the earliest. It was agreed to go with the bollards at the junction of High Street Li�er bins The chairman was due to decision of the Loose Amenities and Maidstone Road. The clerk was meet MBC officer John Edwards to Association. asked to contact Kent Highways to find discuss the location of the li�er bins in Parking A resident had complained out the cost of the bollards. the parish. Members discussed the about parking at the top of Old Loose Speed indicator device Three locations location of the bins and the chairman said Hill. It was agreed that the deputy clerk had been identified and agreed – these would have to be approved by would respond. Howlands Road, Thorn Road and MBC. The clerk would arrange the Annual meeting It was agreed to hold Goudhurst Road. The clerk would meeting. the annual parish meeting on April 24. contact Kent Highways. Allotments Manager Jane Sawyer gave a Precept The report by the RFO was report. All allotments were let. There had discussed and an increase of 12.5% was been a meeting to discuss the route of the suggested. This represented an increase Staplehurst surface water drainage pipe and the of £7.83 per year for a band D household. Jubilee Field The plans for football pitch report was noted. The chairman had This was agreed. improvements, including floodlighting, contacted DHA planning to highlight an Coffee mornings Leaflets about the fencing, a stand and terrace were issue at the top right hand corner of the community coffee mornings had been discussed. Cllr Riordan said extra allotments as there was a spring on the delivered to about 90% of the parish and parking would be available at boundary. had been well received. The community neighbouring premises. The floodlights Playground The report from Linda Po�er warden had wri�en to the deputy clerk to would be 16m high. Members supported was noted. Cllr Smith said he was still thank the parish council for organising the application, with the proviso that the waiting for a quotation for the repair of the events as they helped her meet people fence should be moved away from the the slide. she wouldn’t otherwise see. The deputy Guides Centre. Village Hall Cllr Burden said a talk on clerk had received details of a small grant Parish council surgery Cllr Smith said Mote Park held at the hall had raised application and asked permission to questions had been raised about £450 towards hall funds. apply for this to obtain further resources Sainsbury’s, Jubilee Field and mud on Annual meeting The chairman asked and equipment. This was agreed. Headcorn Road. members to consider options for speakers TV licence The TV licensing authority Street names There was an update on the at the meeting. Cllr Smith suggested that had been informed that the pavilion did selection of names for Hen and local businesses were asked to present at not have a regular TV licence. This meant Duckhurst Farm. It was agreed that MBC the meeting, and suggested Blooming that no form of live TV or downloads, on would be advised that the council Green and the Musket Brewery. This was any device, could be viewed in the recommended Hegarty, Braganza and agreed. pavilion. Ulricson. Bus shelter Cllr Rigby advised that seats Surrenden Field Regarding the contract could not be installed in the bus shelter at for grass-cu�ing, it was agreed to accept Loose the top of Old Loose Hill due to the quotation from Landscape Services of Borough report Cllr Sue Grigg had met restrictions in the width of the pavement. £1,375.20 for 16 grass cuts and 16 fence the contractors and advised that a new Sewage A leak from an allotment down line cuts. call for sites was in the offing. The future Old Loose Hill had now been repaired. of the Park and Ride was pending and another meeting was due soon. Funding Su�on Valence had been offered to the Scouts for Marden Budget Following a lengthy discussion, disabled access to their assembly rooms. Public forum A member of the public the 2019/20 budget was approved. It was Li�er A complaint had been received asked for an update on the anti-social agreed that a public loan be considered to about mass li�er on the village green behaviour discussed at the last meeting. upgrade the street lighting to LED. It was from a recent firework display. It was The clerk said Kent Police had been agreed to set the precept at £51,120. agreed that the deputy clerk would write invited to hold a surgery and it was Footpaths Two volunteers were said to to the manufacturers with a le�er of hoped to set a date soon. The member of be happy to walk the public rights of way complaint. Cllr Grigg would send out a public reported noise nuisance at and report any issues. plea to all residents to clear their li�er Windsor Meadows – the clerk was to Lighting After a phone call to the clerk after using fireworks. contact environmental health to see if any regarding the lighting the two sets of Speeding There had been a complaint reports were forthcoming and would steps in South Lane, the clerk had

36 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk contacted KCC, which owns the steps. needed a new secretary and treasurer and was used by Staplehurst Parish Council, Enhancement group A request had been more meeting should be held. They did not charge a fee but charge for its P made for Parish Enhancement Group needed to look at registering it as a hours and for administration. It also had a r i s h funds to plant six fruit trees at Bowhalls. charity to move forward to new facilities. plenty of equipment. The chairman This was approved up to £94.94. Cllr Gerrish agreed to look at the proposed contracting it out for at least a accounts. The new chair of the football year, and this was agreed. C o u n c i l s club was keen to get involved. Countryside stewardship Natural Yalding The Lock-up The contractor had been England had said that The Lees was no Police news A new sergeant, Sgt Nick appointed but work was delayed by bad longer eligible for mid-tier funding. They Hatcher, had been appointed. The weather which would affect the lime had indicated that it might be worth chairman was corresponding with him mortar. investigating the higher tier funding, but about pavement parking. Allotment fencing The Diocese agents, the maintenance would be more Savills, had given permission for the stringent. The clerk would speak with Bus route The clerk was arranging a fencing to be installed and agreed to Medway Valley Countryside Partnership meeting with Nick Smyth and Stephen cover the cost. Cllr Sanders before making a decision. It was agreed Pay, of KCC, regarding the possibility of recommended installing hawthorn that a standing order/policy be wri�en on routing a bus via Yalding station. fencing on the churchyard side of the how the land should be managed for the Welcome pack There had been quite a fence. The allotment association had future with an annual review of funding few properties changing hands and agreed to this and would undertake this available. confirmation was needed that the packs part of the installation. Pond creation scheme Possible sites for were being distributed. Packs needed to Land inspections All visual inspections reinstatement of ponds had been be prepared for the Countryside to leave of council land had been completed and identified. The chairman suggested a site in the new properties on completion – there was nothing major to report. A meeting with MVCP to look at the areas The Lock needed 19 packs urgently. RoSPA report stated that the play before a decision is made. Sign request MBC had ordered a sign equipment and safety surface needed an Highways improvements Jenny Watson directing to properties in the cul de sac at overhaul and some updating. Some S106 and Steve Henson were looking at a plan Mount Avenue. funds would be available from to remove the priority at the bridge from Jubilee Field A site meeting would be Glebelands and there were some grants Road. This would necessitate no held to check the gate against the from MBC. parking in front of The Bakery and drawing to find out if there was a Neighbourhood plan A session was held possibly outside Lyngs Farmhouse. problem. with the consultant to get his feedback on Residents would need to be canvassed. A Bollards It had been reported that the progress. The objectives had now been mini-roundabout at the junction of the bollards on The Lees were hard to see in refined and were at the final stages of bridge, Benover and Lees Road would be the dark. Cllr Gough would look at them. sign-off. There had been discussion about costly. KCC had no funding for any Village hall The street light on the a call for sites, and the intention of MBC sizeable work and it would need to be Benover Road corner of the car park was was still unclear regarding future funded by the parish council or the wired for CCTV. It was suggested that allocation of sites. A meeting had been county councillor. The clerk would draft the parish council and the village hall arranged. a highways plan, listing all the potential commi�ee could look at funding this Flooding update A new contractor had projects. jointly. Cameras that were on or been appointed for the section 1b Men of Trees The parish council had overlooking the highway could only be properties and had visited the area with been highly commended in the monitored by police, although the parish the Environment Agency to understand competition and had won another tree. It council could install them. There was the scale of the project. would be a hornbeam, and there was a currently nothing in the budget for this. Playscheme The clerk had been flowering cherry from last year. Hall broadband It was agreed that the investigating the three options, which Elections Parish council elections would parish council would pay half, along with were not to run a playscheme, which take place in May. Councillors intending the pre-school. This would have to be in would save the parish council between to stand were asked to inform the clerk. the name of the parish council so that £500 and £2,000); to find a replacement The election would be advertised. VAT could be reclaimed. The router had manager – the new pre-school manager Hedges There were several overgrown arrived and the chairman was in might be interested and had a lot of hedges covering the footway along the discussion with Callflow. experience but would need a lot of hand- Lees Road. The village hall footpath Sports association The Yalding and holding for the first year; or the contract behind Killicks Co�age was said to be Sports Association (YALSA) out the running of it. Play Place, which impassable and would be reported. C r i m e

A Ford Transit parked in the road in Cobfields, Chart Su�on was stolen.

Someone broke into a business premises Neighbourhood Watch r e p o r t s and stole groundwork equipment in Working to reduce crime. Call Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 or local police Gallants Lane, East Farleigh. A window was smashed at a house in Huntington Road, Coxheath. Two men were seen breaking into a have been stolen. A rag-stone wall has been damaged and business compound and building in Two outhouses were broken into at a the rag-stones stolen in Busbridge Road, Eastwood Road, Ulcombe. They were home in Hampstead Lane, Ne�lestead. Loose. disturbed and left. Nothing appeared to The bonnet, the front and radiator were Approximately 6-8m2 of lead was have been taken. stolen from a Vauxhall Vivaro van parked stolen from the windows of a building Fencing was damaged at a house in in an industrial site in High Street, undergoing construction work in Stocke� Kings Road, Headcorn. Staplehurst. Lane, Coxheath. A Mercedes was stolen from a driveway A barn was broken into and a wood Four containers on a farm were broken in Pickering Street, Loose. chipper was stolen in South Lane, Su�on into in Linton Road, Loose. Someone broke into an outbuilding at a Valence. A body of an excavator has been stolen farm in Dean Street, East Farleigh. A window was smashed on a in Forstal Lane, Coxheath. Commercial buildings and containers Mitsubishi L200 parked in the road in A barn was broken into in St Helen’s have been broken into in Well Street, Alen Square, Staplehurst. Nothing Lane, East Farleigh. Loose. Various items including plants appeared to have been taken.

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suppliedAll• Plasteringwork07885 and(Allinsured aspects) 651578fitted 01622supplied 430855 and fitted Brickwork Brickwork • Driveways,Brickwork Patios & Repointing All work certified to cover insurance • ElectricsOO 25 • yearsModernisations Experience • Electrics • Modernisations All• Electrics work • Modernisations certified to cover insurance O 25General years BuilderExperience • FencingFULLY & INSURED Blockpaving HETAS approved O Extensions • Kitchen & BathroomExtensions Installations • KitchenFULLYO & BathroomExtensions INSURED Installations All•All Kitchen01622 [email protected] & Bathroom insuredcertified 844385Installations to cover All work insurance insured O 25 years Experience •All Driveways, work Patios insured & Repointing • PestDriveways, control Patios & Repointing available O • Driveways,O GeneralPatios & BuilderRepointing Tel: MarkFULLYO General 07841 INSURED Builder 409061 Pest control available General Builder • 01622Fencing & Blockpaving 891960 Tel:• FencingMark & 07841 Blockpaving 409061 • Fencing & Blockpaving 01622O 891960 e: [email protected] AllPestContact work control certified availableKevin to BoviscoverAll work insurance certified to cover insurance O 25 years Experience 25 years Experience Tel:Alle: [email protected] MarkworkO 25 07841 years certified Experience 409061 to cover07885 insurance 651578 3838 07748 FULLY 01622 Maidstone Maidstone INSURED 630747891960 Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 FULLY INSURED CameraCameraFULLY INSURED inspectionsinspections availableavailable 07748 630747 e: www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukmark@mdbuildingservices.co.ukwww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk Tel:Pest Mark control 07841 409061 available [email protected] control inspections available availablePest control available 01622 891960 Tel: Mark0162207748 07841 891960630747 409061 www.mdbuildingservices.co.uk01622 891960 Tel:WeddingsWeddings01622 Mark 07841 attended844385attended 409061 e: [email protected] e: [email protected] Camerae: [email protected] inspections available 07748 630747Building PlansCamerawww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk07748 inspections 630747 availableWeddings attended Camera inspections available 07748 630747 www.mdbuildingservices.co.ukBuildingOctober 2017 Plans MemberMemberwww.mdbuildingservices.co.uk07885 ofof 651578 thethe ICSICS 38 Maidstone WealdBuilding Plans Weddings attended Weddings attended Building PlansWeddings attended [email protected] approved approvedof the ICS Building Plans Building PlansMember of theBuilding ICS PlansMemberHETAS approved of the ICS Member of the ICS 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 ContactContact KevinKevin BovisBovis HETAS approved HETASContact approved Kevin BovisHETAS approved 01622 844385 Contact Kevin BovisContact0162201622 844385 844385Kevin Bovis Contact Kevin Bovis 016220788507885 844385 651578651578 01622 844385 [email protected]@gmail.com 651578 01622 844385 07885 651578 [email protected] 651578 07885 651578 [email protected] 3838 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald October October 2017 [email protected] [email protected] 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 38 Maidstone Weald October 2017 Maidstone Weald December 2017 39 downsmail.co.uk Classified

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40 Maidstone Weald October 2017 MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 39 Sales Services& MAIDSTONE AUTOCENTRE LTD Kents Leading Mazda MX-5 Stockists OVER 40 2 & 4 SEATER CONVERTIBLES IN STOCK View our full range of stock online www.maidstoneautocentre.co.uk Classified downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified Maidstone Autocentre Ltd • 20 Bow Road • Wateringbury • Maidstone • Kent • ME18 5DD Tel: 01622 812234 Garden Services continued Pest Control Property Maintenace Roofing Services Waste Services Freephone 0800 6942024 Home Improvements and SuppPlumbinglies Ltd & Tiling HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East Kitchens / Bedrooms/Bathroom Bathrooms / Installation Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate Karndean Flooring (supply / supply CARPET & Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 and install& / insta refurbishment,ll only) Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 UPHOLSTERY see www.installationgallery.co.ukDAVID to see COX Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 a gallery of our previous installations. CLEANING Upholstery Mobile: 07701024078 3 piece suite £84 £42 Very competitivelyHome: priced against01622 730960 OFFER 50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 all Suppliers Discount Curtains Mobile No: E:07855 [email protected] 466438 No hidden extras - All Tel No: 0800 1804590 prices inclusive of VAT Full length £74 £37 Half Length £42 £21 Based in Maidstone# FREE ESTIMATES # Security 01233 840624 NO JOB TOO Quote ‘Downs Mail’ EPIC Fence me in & alotAcc moreess [email protected] LANDSCAPES BIG OR SMALL All types of Fencing & Gates Installed &Denie Repairs d Plastering All Aspects of Garden Services, Landscapes, Logs • Fencing • Treework • Turfing • Decking• Levelling Ground Double Glazing Repairs • Patios • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf • Water Features &Decking, Locks Patios,mith Paths Service & Paving.s •Regular Locks rep aiContracts,red or replac Lawned • D ooMowing,rs that are Hedge difficult toCutting close & etc.lock Seasoned Hardwood Logs • Clearance • Driveways • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & rollers For a free site survey call: Call Colin on 07521 377306 Logman Energy 01622 527106 07788 532926 01622 or611107 01622 / 07967853978 625 447 The largest independently owned liquid [email protected] Skip Hire waste management company in the UK For all makes of Prompt www.logmanenergy.co.uk Collection www.mtscleansing.co.uk Wood burning Stoves 01233 840624 D.T Mob 0773468 0671 and Open Fires [email protected] & Heating Fast Delivery SKIP HIRE • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys G Blocked drain clearance G CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services Painting & Decoarting The largest Over 20 Years Experience • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions G Drain & sewer cleaning G Cesspool & septic tank services T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 independently owned & 12 Yard Bins • Waste disposal & recyclingt G Prices from £110+VAT liquid waste Tankering including• Covering ADR (hazchem) All Aspects of Plumbing T Covering Maidstone G Pollution & flooding solutions& Heating • Power Flushing & The Weald management • Toilets,Taps, Cylinders 01622 843511 T EA Registered company in the UK G Waste disposal & recycling• Landlord Certificates • All Work Water Services Insured & Guaranteed 01233 623721 T Fast & Prompt Service Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, T Commercial 578573 www.mtscleansing.co.uk West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ & Domestic Telephone Mark: 01622 210861 or 07858 021142 01233 660 099 Garage Door Free Quotation www.gboxkent.com GDS Specialists Site Survey • Kent based business and specialize in the • At GDS we offer a range of designs, colours and Installation, supplyS and repairK of garageIP doors HaccessoriesI Rto personaliseE your garage door. Decorator across the South East of CEngland.ommercial •& NotD onlyome do westi supplyc and install garage doors, • Years of experience in the garageRe doorcycling industry Swee rvcan icalsoe repairs any door from any D. STEWART and we are proud to have received many glowing manufacturer to a top standard. All decorating customer recommendations for us. interior & exterior 6pm 24 01634 786129onwards 07540 224938 hour FREE ESTIMATES www.garagedoorspecialistskent.co.uk [email protected] Bearsted 730541

Dr. Tiles Book Online OIrd Ber yPlasteringour skip via secure Skip Hire Tiling & Building Maintenance 24hr online book facility Free No Obligation Quote Roll On/Offs •Plastering •Friendly, reliable, 4Reliable Yard Sk Service,ip £19 No2 inc Job V aTot Small, FullyRoad Insured Permits Arranged FREE 6 Yard Skip £228 inc Vat Waste Recycling Facility NO OBLIGATION •Painting & Decorating clean & tidy worker. QUOTE •Laminate Flooring •City & Guilds 8 Yard Skip £264 inc Vat 12Call Ya rdIan Sk on:ip £360 inc Vat 07804 •Home Improvements qualified Mob 07752175135 Tel:01622 843530 927680 •Tiling •Fully insured Many more services available. See website for details Call Danny on 07450 876363 or email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 40 Maidstone Maidstone Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 Maidstone Weald March 2019 41

64 Mid Kent Living Sales Services& MAIDSTONE AUTOCENTRE LTD Kents Leading Mazda MX-5 Stockists OVER 40 2 & 4 SEATER CONVERTIBLES IN STOCK View our full range of stock online www.maidstoneautocentre.co.uk downsmail.co.uk Classified Maidstone Autocentre Ltd • 20 Bow Road • Wateringbury • Maidstone • Kent • ME18 5DD Tel: 01622 812234 Property Maintenace Roofing Services Waste Services Freephone 0800 6942024 Home Improvements and SuppPlumbinglies Ltd & Tiling HOMEFRESH Throughout the South East Kitchens / Bedrooms/Bathroom Bathrooms / Installation Carpets (Average) Normal rate Special rate Karndean Flooring (supply / supply CARPET & Single Room (12’ x 12’) £42 £21 and install& / insta refurbishment,ll only) Through Room (12’ x 18’) £56 £28 UPHOLSTERY see www.installationgallery.co.ukDAVID to see COX Hall, Stairs & Landing £56 £28 a gallery of our previous installations. CLEANING Upholstery Mobile: 07701024078 3 piece suite £84 £42 Very competitivelyHome: priced against01622 730960 OFFER 50% Leather 3 piece suite £146 £73 all Suppliers Discount Curtains Mobile No: E:07855 [email protected] 466438 No hidden extras - All Tel No: 0800 1804590 prices inclusive of VAT Full length £74 £37 Half Length £42 £21 Based in Maidstone# FREE ESTIMATES # Security 01233 840624 NO JOB TOO Quote ‘Downs Mail’ EPIC Fence me in & alotAcc moreess [email protected] LANDSCAPES BIG OR SMALL All types of Fencing & Gates Installed &Denie Repairs d • Fencing • Treework • Turfing • Decking• Levelling Ground DoubleAll Aspects of Gl Gardenaz Services,ing Repair Landscapes, s • Patios • Jet Washing Service • Astroturf • Water Features &Decking, Locks Patios,mith Paths Service & Paving.s •Regular Locks rep aiContracts,red or replac Lawned • D ooMowing,rs that are Hedge difficult toCutting close & etc.lock • Clearance • Driveways • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • Letterboxes • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & rollers For a free site survey call: Call Colin on 07521 377306 01622 527106 07788 532926 01622 or611107 01622 / 07967853978 625 447 The largest independently owned liquid Skip Hire waste management company in the UK

Prompt 01233 840624 D.T Collection www.mtscleansing.co.uk [email protected] Fast Delivery SKIP HIRE • Blocked drain clearance • CCTV drain & sewer surveys G Blocked drain clearance G CCTV drain & sewer surveys • Drain & sewer cleaning • Cesspool & septic tank services The largest Over 20 Years Experience • Tankering including ADR (hazchem) • Pollution & flooding solutions G Drain & sewer cleaning G Cesspool & septic tank services T Skip Hire 3, 4, 6 independently owned & 12 Yard Bins • Waste disposal & recyclingt G Prices from £110+VAT liquid waste Tankering including ADR (hazchem) T Covering Maidstone management G Pollution & flooding solutions 01622 843511 & The Weald company in the UK G Waste disposal & recycling T EA Registered Water Services 01233 623721 T Fast & Prompt Service Sunnybridge Farm, Watery Lane, T Commercial www.mtscleansing.co.uk West Well, Ashford, Kent TN25 4JJ & Domestic 01233 660 099 Garage Door Free Quotation www.gboxkent.com GDS Specialists Site Survey • Kent based business and specialize in the • At GDS we offer a range of designs, colours and Installation, supplyS and repairK of garageIP doors HaccessoriesI Rto personaliseE your garage door. across the South East of CEngland.ommercial •& NotD onlyome do westi supplyc and install garage doors, • Years of experience in the garageRe doorcycling industry Swee rvcan icalsoe repairs any door from any and we are proud to have received many glowing manufacturer to a top standard. customer recommendations for us. 6pm 24 01634 786129onwards 07540 224938 hour www.garagedoorspecialistskent.co.uk [email protected]

Dr. Tiles Book Online OIrd Ber yPlasteringour skip via secure Skip Hire Tiling & Building Maintenance 24hr online book facility Free No Obligation Quote Roll On/Offs •Plastering •Friendly, reliable, 4Reliable Yard Sk Service,ip £19 No2 inc Job V aTot Small, FullyRoad Insured Permits Arranged FREE 6 Yard Skip £228 inc Vat Waste Recycling Facility NO OBLIGATION •Painting & Decorating clean & tidy worker. QUOTE •Laminate Flooring •City & Guilds 8 Yard Skip £264 inc Vat 12Call Ya rdIan Sk on:ip £360 inc Vat 07804 •Home Improvements qualified Mob 07752175135 Tel:01622 843530 927680 •Tiling •Fully insured Many more services available. See website for details Call Danny on 07450 876363 or email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 4141

64 Mid Kent Living Classified downsmail.co.uk Recruitment continued Web Design

co.uk downsmail. very month ing’s es e one & Mall 0 hom Maidst Come and join our friendly sales over 88,00 wspaper No. 1 ne downsmail.co.uk Classified Four editions delivered to FREE 31 Malling Edition 16 No. 2 July 20 team and share in our success. Malling South | dstone News all get ast | Mai ter buses c action to idstone E Bet e urging rom EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS ar ervices f | Ma PARENTS us s Town chool b ne better s est 3 dsto ill and W  Mai Kings H n- ng. Show e Malli County d E Kent her an ed TH weat - v d fine e show xes sa joye ds at th ne bo th mail.co.uk er crow Pho e come up wi downs ump g. hav Classified b etlin GERS n D LA heir We are currently recruiting a ounds i 0 VIL ining t 4 gr 80,00 reta re than on ways of . 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The ideal candidatein Octo Malli n will have previous PERT post n East Y EX .com arage i OPERT tinco the vic AL PR • Kent R LOC aidstone hours of opening:YOU maidstonea@nem • Mar Sale and supply of alcoholWIN - Monday to Saturday 12:00 hours until 23:00 hours A time for udding L 290 23 P A Christmas You will be working on the best publications 90 turkey & all sharing this the experience1622 6 in a similar role and will: trim 0 min Kent’s Most Awarded Optician gs CHRISTM ts.co.uk D ptometris ays ou Book Nowwww.o 01732 617557 t • Thea AS tre • H om serving the local community and enjoy a es & G ard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens Window Services MB WINDOW CLEANING and Sunday 12:00 hoursAutumn 2 0until15 22:00 hours Opening Hours • Walks - Monday to Saturday 12:00 hours until working environment that provides you with • Have a confident and outgoingFRE personality • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory Roof Cleaning E • Be self-motivated and able to show initiative • Gutter, Fasciathe & Conservatory freedom and• Professional flexibility & Reliable to use Service your initiative On the pumpkin 23:00 hours and Sunday 12:00 hours until 22:30 hours •trail Have at excellent communication skills while working within a supportive team. Emmetts 01622 863502 07950 211 507 Any personGThisarde nis wishinga part-time positionto view of 24 details to 32 hours of per an application may contact the Licensing Partnership on www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.ukThe role will [email protected] involve: Ashley week to be worked overJa ck3/4son days (there will be • Handling inbound and making outbound01732 calls 227004 Any personKent’s hockeywishing to make representation about the application should make them some flexibility in the hours/dayssuperstar to be worked 01622 880840 Quote ‘The Downs Mail’• Developing business fromAccess existing clientsin writing foron the or right before candidate). the : 26th March 2019 Licensing Partnership, PO BOX 182, Sevenoaks, Kent • Obtaining and growing new business You will require the use of your own car • Working to achieve revenueDenied targets. and have a full driving licence. TN13 1GP Window Services The ideal candidate will have previous Basic salary + uncapped commission [email protected] Double Glazing Repairs WIN A time for A Christmas + bonus. OTE (based on 32 hour week) £18000 pa turkey & all the sharing this experience in a similar role and will: trim mings CHRISTMAS Days ou t • Thea & Locksmith Services Mileagetre • Hallowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata) Friendly, flexible, om http://pa.sevenoaks.gov.uk/online-licensing es & Gard • Have worked to personal sales targets ens • MB WINDOW CLEANING • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock family owned business. Walks • Hinges & window •handles Have •a Broken confident glass and& misted outgoing units • LetterboxespersonalityIt is an offenceEmail applications, knowingly including or recklessly your CV to the tosales make manager, a Billfalse Brett. statement in connection with an application. • Domestic & Commercial • Window Cleaning • Conservatory1510 Roof Cleaning • Gutter, Fascia & Conservatory • Professional & Reliable Service • Lost key replaced• Be& doors self-motivated opened • Patio and doors, able runners to show & rollers initiative [email protected] 01622 611107• Have excellent / 07967 communication 625 skills447The maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary of conviction for the offence is £5000. 01622 863502 07950 211 507 This is a part-time position of 24 to 32 hours per Four ed itions delivered to over 88,000 www.mbwindowcleaningservices.co.uk [email protected] Malling Edition homes every We are currently recruiting a month downsmail.co.u week to be worked over 3/4 days (there will be k Maids tone Town | Maidstone & Ma Maidstone E No. 1 lling’ THE K newspaper s ent Co ast joyed unty S | Ma fine how e ids bum weat n- tone South | per cro her a grou wds at nd FREE nds in the sho Ma M Detling w- lling ore tha . visit n 80,00 ors, ove 0 Ju last r 3,000 ly 2016 year, a up on some flexibility in the hours/days to be worked the ttende No. 2 coun d one 31 ty’s bi of Comp ggest e News etitor vents. and bu s, stallh sinesse olders across s came the cou from Bett the usu ntry bu er b al big lo t had PARE uses c Amon cal pre NTS a all g tho sence. bet re urging Shan, se were ter schoo ac of Stap Jo Kin l bus s tion to Ken S lehurs gs H erv get helton t, and ill and W ices fr bot , of A y Malling. est om h pictu lesford rep red, wh , resente o Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 c hsia G id Ken Phone Quote ‘The Downs Mail’ ha roup. 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It w ry rom a er , d e ago, b H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house in Basic salary + uncapped commission usines e said mute x of r rece e map lly Aylesf n . s ber : “I wa rs. ham tly m ” ord. ’s in T s man with w oving onbrid aging looki ife, K to Wo ge bu a bar- ng for atie, A uld- t I wa ing ward t lex is nted t to sho o the also o com rten h bridge mute is dail open and its quarterly sister publication . y work - 8 YOUR Police LOCA Double Glazing Repairs 01622 690290L PR A FOR to pulpit Insid OPE MER e th RTY ficer Metr is edi maidston eE@XmP ar is t opolit NEW tion: ERT Ma he ne an Pol build lling, w vi ice of- Malli ing p HGV DRIVER,+ bonus. FOR OTE A (based SKIP on 32COMPANY hour week) £18000 pa 23 Pudding Lane • M Re car a ng are ropos v a t b a tinco Nick nd W East bridg eing dr ls for .com wi Willia aterin e and awn up aidstone • K th two ms, w gbury on i Mallin as To p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vica ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an rage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk & Locksmith Services Mileage allowance + 32 days annual leave (pro-rata)experienced, Friendly, flexible,all-round journalist CONTACT family owned business. to be Deputy Editor. • Locks repaired or replaced • Doors that are difficult to close & lock Experienced Tractor DriverFREE required D.T Autumn 2015 • Hinges & window handles • Broken glass & misted units • LetterboxesMARK ON Email applications, includingD.T your CV to the sales manager, Bill Brett. SKIP HIRE The role entails all aspects of newspaper • Lost key replaced & doors opened • Patio doors, runners & [email protected] HIREfor Mowingwork so a sound & knowledgeLandscape of news work based in Maidstone gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta 01622 611107 / 07967 625 447 Garden May beThe successful required candidate will help to to do

Four editio managens deliv a small, dedicated team and ered to over 88,000 h omes e Malling Edition very m We are currently recruiting a deputise for the editor.onth some hand work.downsmail.co.uk Maidstone T Theown | deputy editor will Malsoaidston drive content to Maidstone E No. 1 n e & Malling’s T HE Ken ewspaper jo t Coun ast | yed fi ty Sho Maidstone South | b ne w w en- umper eather A time for g crowd and FREE round s at the s in De show- Malling Mor ourtling. expanding daily news website. The role e than 8 sharing this visitors 0,000 , over 3 July 2016 last ye ,000 u ar, a tt p on No. 231 the c ended ounty’ one of Co s bigge mpetit st even News and ors, sta ts. CHRISTMAS busine llholde acro srequiresses ca rs creative input into our popular ss m the co e from Bett the u untry b er buses c sual bi ut ha P A g local d ARENT all mong presen S are s Sh those w ce. better school buurgs isnegrv aiccetiso fn to g Walk an, of S ere Jo ns • Ke tapleh Kings H et rde n Shelt urst, an ill an Ga bo on, of A d Malling. d West rom es & th pict ylesfo om r ured, wmagazinerd, Mid Kent Living. as • H ep h WINtm e resente o eatr Deputy Editor Fu d the M 3 A Chris ll the Th chs id • Tel: 01622ia Grou Kent 843112Phone bo ey & a out p has be . Ken s turk ays en a w aid: “I V x mmings D £600 show onder t ILLAG es sa tri .” ful ERS ha ved ways of ve com More p retaini e up w pa ictu red phone boxeng the ith ge 16 res, see ir This is a full time positions.  based at our Recruitment An early Christmas 4 CHILD chori stors in M are recor tiv ding a C ereworth B e song D of r s in Octob fes- id er. friendlyg offices in Bearsted.5 in Pla g yground anger Distributors wanted to deliver the Downs Mail th KINGS Hi e wer ll residents s Email: [email protected] m b g isled ab ay the £660 u plan out a y Looking for a change? s ap ned new i play ar n to ea. TRAD es  ERS s P 6 n and h p etition against gym ew om r A roa e o o N outdo d brid wner s or gym in ge s in p has b in g n ew acro Sno e een dism Leybourne p ss th dlan r a wast issed a ros e R d a i e of m s T peri iv re h ty hat i ty er M e oney. n s the p to t ed adin ess pe redicti he to way g for a b 12 ople a on of l wn set to the ro nd cou ocal b . op onan Joe’s dash f ute li ncillo usi- p en w za w outsk nking rs who eople ithin ith a THE irts o the A2 Salarysay t are lo £28,000we last pub in or c pa ho f th 28 rade oki ek ash Downs Mail, Maidstone and mes o e tow on th boom ng fo s, b for a n Ditto in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath n th n a e in wh rwar ring ew n loo mean e op nd g acr en tra d to - an offi lease of l ks set an i posite new oss the ffic st a st ife as hou ncreas bank Am bridg arts flo art my ce block. se pric e in b will ong th e. w- w own T es. usines em is as on busin £860 he £ s and haird S e of th ess. Th  w 19 m resser nodl e mai e bri Obituaries 28 hich i illion Mack Alex and to n reas dge s due road intosh expa open ons I c has be to ope brid ture (pic nding a barb hose en bu n in S ge, d lef - The and u er’s. I  port, ilt by eptem op t) wh re are p and t’s an Com 32 as the devel ber, ened h o up lots o comin men 1,00 key t oper A is sal all a f new g area t 0 hom o Pete Tren- lexand on th round house . eas e new rs Vil 32dayst er’s in ey fin thannuale a s goin  leave t ban com lage, own’ the ish th rea, g 34 k near munit a s peopl e brid and o Crime R Malling’s number one newspaper With Woul y on t Stree High e will ge, I th nce Sno dha he t of come ink eports ben dland m. m sev the riv over a lot o efit of alread onths en co er be from t f R wh a hig y feeli c ago nveni cause hat sid OOF lea 43 ich sta h-spe ng the ause o be- p ent fo it wil e d an rted a ed ra shop f the a ut Sn r them l be ve stolen f d copper w WANTED year il link pers a ipated ntic- odlan . It w ry rom a er d e Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, ago, b , H nd com influ Afte on th ill rea house us e m x r e ll in iness said: uters of h recent map.” y Aylesf ber’s “I was . am w ly mo ord. in To mana ith w ving t nbrid ging lookin ife, K o Wou ge bu a bar- g forw atie, A ld- t I wa ing t ard t lex is nted t o shor o the b also £880 o com ten hi ridge If you wouldm s da likeope a new challenge or are keen ute il n and its quarterly sister publication . y work -  Y Police 8 OUR L OCA A to 01622 690290L PRO FOR pulpit Insid good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat PER MER M e this TY E ficer etrop N editi maidstone@XmPEaRr is the olitan EW b on: to makeT Mall in a nestepw Police Mup,uilding we’d love to hear from you. g, vi of- alli p HGV DRIVER, FOR A SKIP COMPANY 23 Pudd Re Teston car a ng are ropos v a t b a ing Lane tinco Nick nd W East bridg eing dr ls for • M .com wi Willia aterin e and awn up aidston th two ms, w gbury on i Mallin as To e • K p sons ho is . ts eme g Coun n- ent ost in , will marrie fou rging L cil wo Octo start in d r-pag ocal Pl rks the vic ber an his n A e supp an. See Mid Kent Living, is looking for an arage d live ew ction P lemen the Kent’s Most Awarded inOpticiani a t b East n pe rtnersh y Mall Mallin ople, ip, whi ing g. 5 t busine ch sup he 11 sses a ports call Richard on 0757 076 8834 parishe nd eve s in the nts in Book Now 01732 617557 Mallin g area. IN ASHFORD www.optometrists.co.uk experienced, all-round journalist Email your application,WEST including MALLING GARAGE or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: to be Deputy Editor. simon.fi[email protected] CONTACT Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable FREE MARK ON D.T Full-time AMOTutumn 2015 Tester and Light Vehicle Technician required for The role entails all aspects of newspaper SKIP HIRE Maidstone Weald September 2017 43 07860832233 work so a sound knowledge of news established local MOT, service and repair garage gathering, news editing, subbing and pkin Ashley On the pum Jackson trail at Kent’s hockeyr proofing is needed to fit into a busy office. Emmetts supersta Garden The successful candidate will help to Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5.30pm with a 1 hour unpaid lunch. manage a small, dedicated team and deputise for the editor. Alternative Saturdays: 8.00am to 12:30pm The deputy editor will also drive content to Wage dependentA time on for experience. Experience of working within the our expanding daily news website. The role sharing this requires creative input into our popular CHRISTMAS alks ens • W Gard mes & magazine Mid Kent Living. as • Ho motor WindustryINtm tre is essential along with a valid Class IV MOT license. ea Leisure A Chris ll the Th • Health ey & a out k gs s tur min Day This is a full time position based at our trim &Distributors Beauty wanted to deliver the Downs Mail friendly offices in Bearsted. For more details please call 01732 874350 in Headcorn, Staplehurst, Coxheath Salary £28,000 pa 32days annual leave Flexible working hours, small and large rounds available, Experienced Cleaners Required – Yalding, Maidstone (ME18 6ES) If you would like a new challenge or are keen good rates of pay. For more information or an informal chat to make a step up, we’d love to hear from you. call Richard on 0757 076 8834 Must have a DBS already in place and Good References are Essential Email your application, including or email: [email protected] your CV to Simon Finlay, Editor: Duties include mopping floors, vacuuming, dusting, emptying bins, toilets simon.fi[email protected] Applicants will need access to their own vehicle and android phone, and must be reliable and other cleaning tasks as required.

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MaidstoneMaidstone Weald Weald March March 2019 2019 4545 downsmail.co.uk C o m e n Doctors won’t see you now, sir WHEN requesting an appointment to so many by so few.” t with a GP, you may now be advised to I am among many who admire some see another qualified member of the MailMarks remarkable qualities in our Prime surgery team (Downs Mail feature, DENNIS FOWLE President Minister, but she is the leader of this February). How should you react? [email protected] “few” submerged by fear over the last Insist – and you will almost certainly three years and not benefits of leaving a be given a GP appointment. But current failing EU and driving and organising for delays may concern you. help reduce pressure to the overall exciting challenges of opportunity seen Our most significant requirement of benefit for all patients and GPs. by the people. If only… GPs is diagnostics and at a time when I believe I can. My GP would like me She has made so many mistakes and we are short of doctors (especially in to have a blood test about every three lost the trust of just about everybody. Kent), we need to maximise availability months and I see her for an assessment She has been driven by remainer cabinet of this vital skill for all patients in all of results. But I suspect another member members and put remainer civil servants surgeries. of the surgery team can give an expert in charge of negotiating an appalling We are used to making GP assessment and refer me to my GP only withdrawal agreement which is both a appointments without questioning, but if necessary. This is just one small surrender document to the EU and a this may well not apply in future. example. remainers’ charter. Receptionists are being trained to Other time-saving options are Did this small coterie of plo�ing request our reasons and, if appropriate, becoming available too. GPs increasingly remainers really expect to fool all the invite us to see initially another speak to patients on the telephone or by people all the time? professional instead. Skype or FaceTime. This saves what can No wonder the EU is now furious. This could be, for example, a practice be long, difficult, time-consuming and With co-operation from the plo�ers, it nurse, physiotherapist, paramedic or expensive journeys for patients too. thought it was ge�ing most of its own clinical pharmacist. Such help or advice We are in a time of very big changes in way. is likely to be available much more our GP surgeries. The Prime Minister has sidelined to quickly. extinction two Brexit ministers and I think the NHS is making the right Brexit saga bullied and bulldozed through at both decision, but it is not danger free. .... H opefully, the prolonged Brexit saga Chequers and the subsequent decision- Many see a close relationship with is drawing to a close. I know that is the making meeting the withdrawal their own GP as important and wish of so many Downs Mail readers, agreement without allowing her full comforting, and we talk to them freely. especially business people, appalled by cabinet proper time for required detailed They get to know us well, read our the way it is being handled both by our consideration of a vital and complex 500- minds and faces, pick up on li�le clues politicians and the EU. plus page legal document. and can tell when things need Maidstone (58%), Kent and the UK She wanted, too, to bypass a investigating or advice should be voted for Brexit and Members of Parliament she should have involved offered. Parliament then kept voting powerfully months ago – but that has now applied a There must no friendly divorce to honour the referendum decision. But massive veto. She would like now to between GPs and patients, especially too many MPs have since failed us. There restrict imposed changes to the Irish those in vulnerable age groups. It will be could be only one referendum winner – backstop. But I think Brexiteer MPs will a delicate balancing act which needs and I fume when I hear some MPs say demand very vital changes on top of that. careful consideration. even now the wishes of the losers must Belatedly the will of the people seems I think, however, that many will agree be honoured too. to be ge�ing home to more MPs. I still GPs are not necessarily our first port of To misquote Winston Churchill: recognise much local optimism – but call at a surgery and we can sensibly “Never has so much damage been done what an awful journey.

My view on court action contended it was a ma�er of insufficient agreement from the developers who paid will rather than insufficient time! this money that it could be used for this RE Cllr Fran Wilson’s le�er “Facts behind The evidence was there for a relief road, purpose. Cllr Wilson also overlooks that legal action”, it is one view and, sadly, but MBC chose to ignore it and funded the this agreement was placed into the public indicates a worryingly selective memory. alternative but restricted survey by Mo� domain when it was reported to the Joint Years ago, Cllr Wilson a�ended a McDonald to substantiate the view that all Transportation Board. transportation meeting when she claimed that was required was some junction Not only that, but at the first hearing in there was insufficient time to include improvements, and a new bus lane along the High Court the eminent judge, Mrs provision for a Leeds Langley relief road the Su�on Road. It seems that MBC Justice Lang said: “In my view, the in the Local Plan for more housing. remains irrevocably wedded to “modal claimant has not presented arguable She also failed to recall how, as part of shift” as the solution to our traffic ills. It is grounds that the defendant’s decision was the local plan process, that Kent County akin to taking an aspirin to cure cancer. unlawful. The defendant is acting Council and Maidstone Borough Council Regarding the funding of the current pursuant to its statutory powers.” jointly commissioned Amey to provide an relief road feasibility study with £200,000 On appeal, a deputy High Court judge impact study on additional housing. that the highway authority (KCC) took threw out three of the grounds that MBC Amey’s report stated traffic congestion from developer contributions S106 monies was arguing, but the council was given in south east Maidstone was among the (designed for highway purposes) and leave to revise the remaining three worst the officer had seen anywhere in the which is seemingly the reason for MBC’s arguable grounds to be heard in March. country. The officer indicated it was High Court action against KCC, Cllr If there is a wish to resolve the ma�er of Amey’s view a relief road could reduce Wilson implies that the use of this money the £200,000, maybe MBC might be traffic flows along the Su�on Road by as was a unilateral decision on the part of the prepared to comment on what I believe to much as 25%. highway authority. be the case, that on more than one That was over three years before the She fails to mention in 2015 that KCC occasion KCC has offered to repay the plan was finalised and why I have always renegotiated, sought and received the £200,000 in full and fund the feasibility

46 Maidstone Weald March 2019 downsmail.co.uk downsmail.co.uk C

C study separately from non-S106 money. sided, often ill-informed, rhetoric regards difficult when the schools finish. o m e n o m e n If that is not the case and what I am Brexit? In Leicester, the charge for the Park and hearing is wrong, MBC should have no He writes: “I think the majority of voters Ride is £3. Those with a bus pass only pay Doctors won’t see you now, sir difficulty in denying such an offer. see this as a time for national pride.” £1 to park, the ride is free. Perhaps MBC says it seeks clarity. I think it is Polls now favour a large majority in something along those lines could be tried WHEN requesting an appointment to so many by so few.” because they want the clarity that the favour of remaining. Less national pride, to save such a valuable service. The traffic t t with a GP, you may now be advised to I am among many who admire some highway mitigation provisions contained more international joke. in Maidstone is outrageous, MBC needs to see another qualified member of the MailMarks remarkable qualities in our Prime in the Local Plan supersedes the I would like you to put a stop to his start solving the problem and encourage surgery team (Downs Mail feature, DENNIS FOWLE President Minister, but she is the leader of this discretionary powers of the statutory remarks, or at least print the other side of us to visit and shop before it is too late. February). How should you react? [email protected] “few” submerged by fear over the last highway authority. It has everything to do the story. Ann Jackson, Allington Insist – and you will almost certainly three years and not benefits of leaving a with MBC trying to supersede the Paul Coage, via email be given a GP appointment. But current failing EU and driving and organising for statutory authority of KCC as the delays may concern you. help reduce pressure to the overall exciting challenges of opportunity seen highways body. Come clean on health cuts Our most significant requirement of benefit for all patients and GPs. by the people. If only… If residents were to look at the grounds Join fight for our wildlife I read with absolute dismay the small GPs is diagnostics and at a time when I believe I can. My GP would like me She has made so many mistakes and that MBC is seeking to argue in the High WILDLIFE in Kent is in trouble – too we are short of doctors (especially in to have a blood test about every three lost the trust of just about everybody. Court, they will see that MBC article regarding a possible cut to the many species are in decline and at risk of provision of the vasectomy service in the Kent), we need to maximise availability months and I see her for an assessment She has been driven by remainer cabinet acknowledges that land adjoining the extinction. Habitats are being lost, of this vital skill for all patients in all of results. But I suspect another member members and put remainer civil servants A274 is fixed as the main area for urban West Kent CCG area. damaged and fragmented at a terrifying Over the years, since the CCGs took surgeries. of the surgery team can give an expert in charge of negotiating an appalling growth and there were to be two highway rate, and there isn’t enough space or We are used to making GP assessment and refer me to my GP only withdrawal agreement which is both a mitigation works to address the impact of over their functions, there have been many resources for wildlife to survive. stories, claims and rumours as to the cuts appointments without questioning, but if necessary. This is just one small surrender document to the EU and a development. The government has commi�ed to this may well not apply in future. example. remainers’ charter. Part of this requires the widening of and limitations placed on health services creating a new Environment Act this year in West Kent. Receptionists are being trained to Other time-saving options are Did this small coterie of plo�ing Su�on Road at its junction with Willington and for the first time in the last 20 years, request our reasons and, if appropriate, becoming available too. GPs increasingly remainers really expect to fool all the Street, a scheme rejected by the Joint Can the group come clean and clarify this is an opportunity to create a wilder exactly which services it has closed since invite us to see initially another speak to patients on the telephone or by people all the time? Transportation Board, consisting of 50% nation for future generations. the demise of the Primary Care Trusts and professional instead. Skype or FaceTime. This saves what can No wonder the EU is now furious. KCC and 50% MBC membership. That’s why I’m standing alongside Kent give details of the extent where there have This could be, for example, a practice be long, difficult, time-consuming and With co-operation from the plo�ers, it Notwithstanding this rejection, MBC Wildlife Trust in calling on our local MPs been limitations of these services? nurse, physiotherapist, paramedic or expensive journeys for patients too. thought it was ge�ing most of its own presses ahead trying to get the High Court to back a strong Environment Act. No spin please, just fact. clinical pharmacist. Such help or advice We are in a time of very big changes in way. to effectively approve what elected Our new Environment Act needs to Tony Monk, Westerhill Road, Coxheath is likely to be available much more our GP surgeries. The Prime Minister has sidelined to councillors have already rejected. ensure that politicians are answerable to quickly. extinction two Brexit ministers and But not only that, the papers state that meaningful targets for nature’s recovery. It I think the NHS is making the right Brexit saga bullied and bulldozed through at both the claimant (MBC) requires “the needs to set in place new legal decision, but it is not danger free. .... H opefully, the prolonged Brexit saga Chequers and the subsequent decision- additional inbound carriageway to have requirements to create a “Nature Recovery Plagued by stink bugs Many see a close relationship with is drawing to a close. I know that is the making meeting the withdrawal some bus prioritisation measures Network” that will allow wildlife to move YOUR article on Stink Bugs (Downs Mail their own GP as important and wish of so many Downs Mail readers, agreement without allowing her full comprising dedicated bus use of the new more freely around our landscape. And we February 2019) is a most interesting comforting, and we talk to them freely. especially business people, appalled by cabinet proper time for required detailed carriageway between appropriate hours need our new law to put in place a strong, subject for me because I first noticed them They get to know us well, read our the way it is being handled both by our consideration of a vital and complex 500- (7.30am and 9.30am) with the new independent watchdog that can challenge on my apartment walls as far back as 2014. minds and faces, pick up on li�le clues politicians and the EU. plus page legal document. carriageway then being made available for decisions that are damaging to nature. One was caught and I visited the and can tell when things need Maidstone (58%), Kent and the UK She wanted, too, to bypass a other traffic at all other times”. I encourage all of us to join Kent museum in Maidstone for help to identify investigating or advice should be voted for Brexit and Members of Parliament she should have involved Councillors at the JTB have been Wildlife Trust’s campaign at it. I was told that there was nothing offered. Parliament then kept voting powerfully months ago – but that has now applied a assured that bus prioritisation was not a kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/EnvironmentAct. available to help with its presence. There must no friendly divorce to honour the referendum decision. But massive veto. She would like now to bus lane. I respect Cllr Wilson and believe Ed Charles, Muir Road, Maidstone So, over the years, it is very unpleasant between GPs and patients, especially too many MPs have since failed us. There restrict imposed changes to the Irish that she and many of her colleagues are living where one cannot have the those in vulnerable age groups. It will be could be only one referendum winner – backstop. But I think Brexiteer MPs will well-meaning, but when anyone seeks to windows open. a delicate balancing act which needs and I fume when I hear some MPs say demand very vital changes on top of that. tell the truth, maybe it should be the truth, Act to save Park and Ride We are surrounded by old conifer trees, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. careful consideration. even now the wishes of the losers must Belatedly the will of the people seems THE idea of local buses taking on the Park so I am wondering what a�racts the bugs. Gary Cooke, Kent County Councillor for I think, however, that many will agree be honoured too. to be ge�ing home to more MPs. I still and Ride has been tried. By the time the 71 The outside of our apartment is, in parts, GPs are not necessarily our first port of To misquote Winston Churchill: recognise much local optimism – but Maidstone South East or 72 arrived at the Allington Park and painted white and they seem to only call at a surgery and we can sensibly “Never has so much damage been done what an awful journey. Ride from the Larkfield direction, all the plague us. Maybe this is the problem. Brexit opinion ‘one-sided’ downstairs seats were taken and older It would be very interesting if an expert My view on court action contended it was a ma�er of insufficient agreement from the developers who paid people waiting could not board as they could give some advice as to elimination. will rather than insufficient time! this money that it could be used for this I WILL keep this short. Why have you could not manage the stairs. Doreen Giovanelli, St Luke’s Avenue, RE Cllr Fran Wilson’s le�er “Facts behind The evidence was there for a relief road, purpose. Cllr Wilson also overlooks that made a platform for Dennis Fowle’s one- Using the local buses in the afternoon is Maidstone legal action”, it is one view and, sadly, but MBC chose to ignore it and funded the this agreement was placed into the public indicates a worryingly selective memory. alternative but restricted survey by Mo� domain when it was reported to the Joint Years ago, Cllr Wilson a�ended a McDonald to substantiate the view that all Transportation Board. The five editions of the Downs Mail are delivered to 90% of households in the Maidstone and Malling area, transportation meeting when she claimed that was required was some junction Not only that, but at the first hearing in there was insufficient time to include improvements, and a new bus lane along the High Court the eminent judge, Mrs reaching over 190, 000 readers every month. provision for a Leeds Langley relief road the Su�on Road. It seems that MBC Justice Lang said: “In my view, the in the Local Plan for more housing. remains irrevocably wedded to “modal claimant has not presented arguable Maidstone North Maidstone South Maidstone East Maidstone Weald Malling She also failed to recall how, as part of shift” as the solution to our traffic ills. It is grounds that the defendant’s decision was the local plan process, that Kent County akin to taking an aspirin to cure cancer. unlawful. The defendant is acting Current and archived editions are also free to read online at Council and Maidstone Borough Council Regarding the funding of the current pursuant to its statutory powers.” www.downsmail.co.uk jointly commissioned Amey to provide an relief road feasibility study with £200,000 On appeal, a deputy High Court judge impact study on additional housing. that the highway authority (KCC) took threw out three of the grounds that MBC Contact our teams…. Amey’s report stated traffic congestion from developer contributions S106 monies was arguing, but the council was given Editorial Sales Accounts Dept. in south east Maidstone was among the (designed for highway purposes) and leave to revise the remaining three Editor: Simon Finlay [email protected] worst the officer had seen anywhere in the Sales Manager: Bill Brett which is seemingly the reason for MBC’s arguable grounds to be heard in March. Simon.fi[email protected] 01622 630330 ext 229 country. The officer indicated it was High Court action against KCC, Cllr If there is a wish to resolve the ma�er of 01622 734735 [email protected] Amey’s view a relief road could reduce Wilson implies that the use of this money the £200,000, maybe MBC might be 01622 630330 ext. 221 Mail Publications Ltd Deputy editor: Doug Kempster Forge House traffic flows along the Su�on Road by as was a unilateral decision on the part of the prepared to comment on what I believe to Advertising Sales Enquiry: much as 25%. highway authority. be the case, that on more than one [email protected] Bearsted Green Business Park That was over three years before the She fails to mention in 2015 that KCC occasion KCC has offered to repay the 01622 734735 01622 630330 option 1 Bearsted, Maidstone ME14 4DT plan was finalised and why I have always renegotiated, sought and received the £200,000 in full and fund the feasibility

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