yourashford K O S yourashford.co.uk E E R F w e e k mniedw s p a p er Issue No 69 Available from Wednesday THE NEWSPAPER FOR ASHFORD, TENTERDEN AND SURROUNDING VILLAGES January 7, 2009 WIN £1 MILLION ...IN PRIZES IN OUR BUSINESS CHALLENGE 2009 For full details visit our website www.kentnews.co.uk POSITIVE START TO CHALLENGING YEAR WHAT’S ON & WATCH Picture:IGORKUPCO (cid:2)BYED HILL yourkenttv.co.uk AN ambitious string of attractions designed to lure shoppers into the town over the festive period proved the silver lining to the increasing cloud of economic uncertainty. While traders across Ashford were left counting the cost of the credit squeeze on their bottom lines both in the run up to Christmas and the January sales,town centre chiefs were taking some crumbs of comfort. And crucially it appears the aggressive mar- keting of the area last month paid off,with huge numbers flocking to the town. After a slow start,ice skating fans saw fig- ures increase during the school holidays for BLOCKBUSTERS:Watch teasers of the the Ice World temporary rink in the car park of latest big screen releases. Search ‘preview’ Charter House as crowds flocked from across east Kent. ALSO INSIDE There are also encouraging signs the town centre is once again becoming an essential shopping destination for those living in the COMPETITION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 15 borough. After years of decline, the recent improvements to the town centre appear to be LEISURE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGES 19-28 paying off. MOTORING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGES 29-31 Spearheaded by the multi-million pound revamp of County Square crowds flocked – JOBS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGES 32-35 giving under pressure traders hope the gloomy SPORT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGES 38-39 ICE STALLS WINNING STREAK ouFtlroaonkc efosr 2B0u0r9t ,macyo mnomt ehricti tahl emm atonoa hgaerrd .at County Square,said:“We put a lot of effort into our Christmas activities.You can get the peo- ple in but getting them to spend is another matter.Stores say their sales figures are up Ashford Town’s march towards promotion was given the cold shoulder this weekend as a frozen pitch at and some have been the top in their region and neighbours Whitstable put hopes of making it seven wins in a row on hold. beaten branches at Bluewater. But there will still be a warm glow in the confidence-packed dressing room – as boss Steve Lovell was “Footfall has been the best we have had for named Ryman South Manager of the Month for December after leading his club from mid-table years.Just before Christmas we had the best mediocrity to within five points of the league leaders. FULL STORY – SEE PAGES 38 & 39 week since 2002 and then the next week was CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 Nasons Department Store 47 High Street, Canterbury, CT1 2SB 01227 456755 www.nasons.co.uk Nasons Furniture,Carpet and Bed Centre Maynard Road, Wincheap Estate, Canterbury, CT1 3RQ. 01227 463550 2 yourashford.co.uk Telephone advertising: 01303 817110 Email [email protected] Protect traders WHAT’S ON & WATCH by shopping local yourkenttv.co.uk CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE was the best since 2003.” An estimated 130,000 visited the TOP TV CLIPS centre in the week running up to December 25.But despite the good cheer,the town centre is still in des- perate need of residents giving it their support and shopping local. Viv Kenny heads Ashford Town Centre Partnership – the organisa- tion behind the Winter Festival and ice rink.She has rapped out a warn- ing that only by shopping local can the local economy survive the gloom. She said:“I have been saddened by the forecasts about retailers going out of business.We have all got used to SUCH A WASTE:Claire Pitts (inset) has slammed KCC for pulling out of its deal with Greenfields one-stop shopping but we should get back to the historic way of shopping Waste recycling and making an event of it in the town. “We would love to do more events for Ashford but we rely on the support of local businesses to fund them,so we need to work together to bring project scrapped Ashford ahead of its competitors.” Other areas of the town have reported a good shopping period 1 How simple changes to your driving can save you money. See despite the closure of well known www.yourkenttv.oc.uk and search the leisure channel. names such as Woolworths. Natalie Price from Park Mall said: over rise in costs “Things have gone very well.Despite the weather, footfall has been very good and is on the rise.The sales peri- od started before Christmas and meant numbers steadily improved.” Sally Starley from Tiny Tots in (cid:2)BYED HILL making it prohibitive. Bank Street said:“I think while we KCC leader Paul Carter said: will be okay,the next 12 months will “Claire Pitts is to be applauded for be difficult.I think we will see more A GROUNDBREAKING trying to do something positive about shops close but those that are left will recycling scheme has been recycling furniture materials. be much stronger.” forced to close – prompting “There is always a risk with any new Mrs Kenny added:“I think Ashford business venture and Greenfields has coped well over the festive season but the woman behind the been a victim of market forces due to independent traders face a struggle doomed project to fire a the downturn in the market for recy- and need the help of local people. broadside at Kent County clables,especially scrap metal. “We have improved shopping on “KCC originally agreed to pay £45 offer and Ashford can now compete Council. a tonne for the materials produced, with Canterbury and Maidstone.” Greenfields Resource Management but the company has almost doubled Ltd was set up on the Cobbs Wood the fee to £80 in the past nine industrial estate last April by Claire months and we cannot justify paying Keep fit and clean Pitts,a former waste manager with this increase.” Can you help trace the history of Folkestone through the years? Dover council. Ms Pitts said:“Obviously the unit 2 But it has been forced to shut up costs are more expensive at this up the community See www.yourkenttv.co.uk and search the leisure channel. shop as a result of the county council experimental stage and that tips pulling out of a deal to recycle rub- the cost balance very marginally bish at the facility. in favour of the landfill option,but THE Green Gym, launched last It says the costs have soared and those costs would fall substantially month for volunteers who want to the money demanded by the facility once we were able to roll it out in a keep fit while carrying out practical too high. bigger way.” conservation work, will regroup on Headache The company’s five employees January 12. have been laid off and it says it will It will get to work on the first of a The company breaks down bulky not be able to pay the rent into the series of tasks in the Community refuse such as beds and furniture into new year. Woodland at Singleton Hill and at the the component parts and then sells She added:“We are the first com- Singleton Environment Centre. the material on the open market. pany as far as I am aware to be Every Monday until February 23 Ms Pitts said:“What to do with doing this. Landfill sites will get the volunteers will work for three bulky refuse has always been a fuller and jobs will be lost in an inno- hours to clear overgrown shrubs, huge headache for councils across vative business that had the poten- improve access, plant trees, create the UK. Some charities do re-use tial to create hundreds of new jobs, glades and enhance wildlife habitat. items but not everything can be re- benefiting councils UK-wide. So The teams will be led by a project used if it is not labelled properly.” much for KCC’s much trumpeted officer from conservation charity She says costs have had to increase green credentials.” Kent BTCV (British Trust for Cons- to keep the project going.But KCC The company also takes items from ervation Volunteers) who will provide says the fee has almost doubled the NHS and Customs and Excise. tools,expertise and guidance. 3 Catch a glimpse of one of the infrequently spotted waxwing bird. See web TV site www.yourkenttv.co.uk and search ‘waxwing’. KPOOWSE MREEDD BIAY SEE OUR SISTER PAPERS KENT ON SUNDAY AND THE SATURDAY EDITIONFOR ALL THE WEEKEND’S COUNTY NEWS AND SPORT EDITOR:Chris Britcher 01303 817171 View 100s of GROUP EDITOR: Gary Wright 01303 817032 WEBSITE: www.yourashford.co.uk our exquisite jewellery at TELEPHONE ADVERTISING: 01303 817110 www.yourkenttv.co.uk FAX: (Advertising) 01303 817002 EMAIL:Editorial: [email protected] Sales: [email protected] Just search for HEADOFFICEADDRESS: Apple Barn, ‘exquisite jewellery’ Hythe Road, Smeeth, Ashford, Kent TN25 6SR Printed by Newsfax © 2007 KOS Media. yourashford.co.uk by KOSMedia award-winning publications yourashford.co.uk Telephone editorial: 01303 817200 3 Email [email protected] Tent is a big top-ic Probe into brutal assaults continues TWO vicious, unprovoked, assaults in the early hours of Christmas Eve are for theatre lovers being linked by police. The first assault took place around 5.30am on December 24, when a 30- year-old man was walking home with a friend. As they turned into Godfrey Walk,near to the Beaver Road barriers, they saw two men walking towards them on the opposite side of the road. Support grows for a temporary panto venue A police spokesman said:“One of the men crossed the road and punched the 30-year-old man, knocking him to the floor.He sustained a fractured cheekbone. “Between 5.40-6am,a 65-year-old man was walking along the cycle path off (cid:2)BYED HILL Beaver Road which runs alongside the Eurostar car park, and a man jogged past him.Suddenly he was punched in THEATRE-starved townsfolk are the face and knocked unconscious.” He sustained cuts and bruising to his rallying behind a call for Ashford to face,a fractured skull and a broken arm. stage its own festive pantomime – He was taken to hospital but has since been discharged and is now recovering in a circus-style big top. at home. Nearby Canterbury will be staging its winter Anyone who saw anything on the night 2009 show in a massive tent as work gets under should contact police on 01303 289180 or way on rebuilding the Marlowe Theatre. Crimestoppers on 0800 555000. And it prompted Yourashford to ask drama lovers in the town if there should be a push for Ashford to follow suit. VIEWTHIS CLIP ON It could potentially prove a huge draw for the town during the busiest time of the year,bring some much needed family fun to the town,and, yourkenttv.co.uk put the spotlight on the fact there is no perma- nent performance space in the borough. LOCAL Panto Stella Critchley,who last year was awarded an MBE for her services to the Ashford Youth Theatre,told us:“I think it would be a good idea. “I know a lot of people in Ashford would rather take their children to a panto here than have to travel to Canterbury or Folkestone,par- PUTTING ON A SHOW:Could Ashford follow Canterbury’s example and stage a pantomime in a heated big top? ticularly if it was in walking distance of the town centre.But it would have to be a profes- space at St Mary’s Church in the town centre. to continue to run productions in the same sional standard production to attract people.” Jack Cowan,who has been campaigning to way as the Marlowe.If a professional compa- She also said it may give young performers in find a venue in the town,and has gathered a ny was keen to do a production on a council the area a chance to take part in a professional petition with more than 2,000 signatures site we would have to negotiate whether that production if they were auditioned to play parts calling for a permanent theatre,said:“I think would be possible.” in the chorus;as is the case in Canterbury. a big top would be an excellent idea if we could • What do you think of the idea? Let us know: Email: The town does not currently have a make it work.” [email protected]. Write: The Editor, Trace the history of Ashford cattle permanent performance venue for theatre A council spokesperson said:“As we do not Yourashford, KOS Media, Apple Barn, Hythe Road, Smeeth, market. Search ‘cattle’ although plans are in the pipeline to create a have a theatre at present we are not obligated Ashford, Kent TN25 6SR. Police safety Dad’s pride over unit reveals FREE MBE awarded to drop in crime FITTING* TARGETED crackdowns last year have dragged down crime figures Olympic hero Staff in the borough,say police. It follows the success of the Safer Spring, Summer and Autumn campaigns. Inspector Andrew Judd said:“A number of operations,focusing on different types of criminal damage FATHER of Olympic cycling hero showed his ability – he used to play in the area,were undertaken by Jamie Staff has spoken of his pride squash and run with me when he the Community Safety Unit. at the award of an MBE to his gold was young and it was obvious he “During the Safer Summer cam- medal-winning son. had talent. paign a 25 per cent reduction in all The Beijing star was given the “When he started cycling that reported crime was recorded for the award in the New Year’s Honours was obviously what he wanted to 40% off Victoria Ward and during Safer List – recognising his role in the do and we gave him every encour- (cid:54)(cid:81)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:1) (cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:66)(cid:83)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:84)(cid:13) Autumn, the four-week period hugely successful Team GB squad. agement. including Halloween and Bonfire And while he was enjoying a “We had 12 years of taking him to plus free fitting* night,there was a 57 per cent reduc- much needed holiday in Los meetings and to training – wherev- tion in criminal damage,equating to Angeles,his father,Alan Staff,was er he wanted to go. 74 less victims of crime.” glowing with pride. “But it has now paid off and he Fashion Stripe Kelso Supreme Overall it resulted in a 15 per The builder from Brabourne Lees has achieved what he set out to do. 80% wool, 80% wool, cent reduction in criminal damage said: “It’s fantastic for him. It’s “This recognition is just the final across the borough. great that people who make these thing and we are all obviously (cid:21)(cid:22)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:91)(cid:1)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:66)(cid:87)(cid:90)(cid:1)(cid:69)(cid:80)(cid:78)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:1) (cid:22)(cid:17)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:91)(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:70)(cid:89)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:66)(cid:1)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:66)(cid:87)(cid:90)(cid:1)(cid:69)(cid:80)(cid:78)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:1) Police say they have targeted sort of decisions recognise his delighted.” (cid:88)N(cid:66)O(cid:84)(cid:1)W(cid:98)(cid:19) (cid:22)£(cid:15)(cid:26)1(cid:26)4(cid:1)(cid:84).(cid:82)6(cid:1)(cid:78)7 (cid:1)sq m (cid:88)N(cid:66)O(cid:84)(cid:1)W(cid:98)(cid:19) (cid:26)£(cid:15)(cid:26)1(cid:26)8(cid:1)(cid:84).(cid:82)5(cid:1)(cid:78)9 sq m areas that have had problems in achievements.” Jamie and his American wife the past. Mr Staff said Jamie had always Malia are currently in LA. (cid:11)(cid:1)(cid:39)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:39)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:1)(cid:111)(cid:1)(cid:56)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:98)(cid:20)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:22)(cid:78)2(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:66)(cid:83)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:87)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:18)(cid:22)(cid:78)2(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:1) During the school holidays shown his athletic ability, even His father added:“But he’s com- (cid:87)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:98)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:22)(cid:1)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:15)(cid:1)(cid:86)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:77)(cid:66)(cid:90)(cid:15)(cid:1)(cid:38)(cid:89)(cid:68)(cid:77)(cid:86)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:67)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:66)(cid:74)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:84)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:74)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:88)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:15) schools were regularly checked from an early age. ing back later this month.He’ll def- by patrols and as a result no He said: “I played a fair bit of initely come and visit because we (cid:19)(cid:22)(cid:14)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:1)(cid:51)(cid:80)(cid:81)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:51)(cid:80)(cid:66)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:36)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:67)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:90) Opening times: reports of damage were received sport when I was younger but the are looking after his pet dog - a 01227 766655 Mon – Sat 9.30am – 5.30pm and there was only one burglary. opportunities really weren’t there cocker spaniel named Marilyn. (cid:88)(cid:88)(cid:88)(cid:15)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:90)(cid:84)(cid:15)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:15)(cid:86)(cid:76) Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm • To find out the crime figures in your area to progress far. “Then we can get the chance to FURNITURE .BEDS .CURTAINS . FLOORING. ACCESSORIES go to www.kent.police.uk/crimestats. “But when my son came along he congratulate him properly.” 4 yyyyoooouuuurrrraaaasssshhhhffffoooorrrrdddd....ccccoooo....uuuukkkk Telephone advertising: 01303 817110 Email [email protected] Charity helping youngsters to rebuild their lives after disaster yourashford NEWS IN BRIEF Man on a mission to NHS trust advises young and old keep wrapped up KEEP warm and keep well is the New Year help tsunami children message from NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent. Children and older people are especially vulnerable when the temperature drops and are being urged to keep their heating on at home and wrap up warm when they go out. The PCT’s medical director Dr Robert Stewart said:“People should aim to keep their m(70a ind reogormeess hefaahterde ntho e2i1t) ,dewgrheieles cbeendtirgoroamdes (cid:2)BYED HILL should be kept above 18C.” Residents’ fears put halt FOUR years after the devastating effects of the Asian tsunami, one to rail maintenance site man in Ashford is still determined to make the lives of those involved A DECISION to build a maintenance cen- better. tre by Network Rail on the Isis Business Park in Sevington has been delayed after Devsiri Hewavidana, from Kingsnorth, concerns from residents. founded the UK Friends of Galle charity to The company wants to build the centre so help his home town which was wrecked by the it can move staff from its current location at devastating wave. the Newtown works. Mr Hewavidana originally hails from Galle The new building would operate 24-hours in south Sri Lanka.The town was one of the a day and house administrative as well as worst hit in the country and he still has many traHcokwsiedvee rs,t9a8ff .people have signed a petition friFernudsst raantde df abmyi lwy hthaet rhe.e saw as the ineffec- NEW HOPE: Children outside a library donated by UK objecting to the scheme, citing concerns tiveness of some of the major charities in deal- Friends of Galle and (right) the devastation wreaked by over noise,traffic,lighting and the loss of ing with the problem,he decided to try and the Boxing Day tsunami which hit Sri Lanka in 2004 wildlife. help in the best way he could. Since then he has ran a campaign to raise “We have moved into rural areas of Sri How TV fitness star was awareness of the problems but more impor- Lanka,a few miles inland,where the poverty tantly start rebuilding homes and facilities to is appalling. motivated for his big day help the families struggling in the aftermath “Now we are concentrating buying shoes of the tsunami. and books for poor children and building The latest new home has just been finished libraries for poor schools. We still support GMTV fitness guru Mr Motivator is back and a mother and her young children moved in. about 65 tsunami children and another 90 on TV this week after a decade off our Her husband was killed when the wave struck, rural children with scholarships. screens – but not many people know he tied washing him and the taxi he drove,away. “For most children in Sri Lanka,a pair of the knot in a glitzy showbusiness wedding Mr Hewavidana said:“We stepped in to give school shoes or a dictionary are unimaginable at Chilham. them a house,but it took us four years to raise luxuries. Families live from hand-to-mouth The star,real name Derrick Evans,tied the enough funds.The original sponsors pulled out and have no money to spare on the children’s knot at St Mary’s Church in the mid 1990s. halfway through the building.Luckily for us, education.” Among those attending the ceremony the diamond company De Beers in London The 2004 tsunami was sparked by a massive were singer Paul Young and GMTV pre- stepped in to make up the difference. earthquake off the coast of Indonesia.It sparked senters Lorraine Kelly and Penny Smith. “Many of the people have now been rehoused a huge wave which swept inland killing more The reception was held at nearby in the area,so the charity is looking at other than 150,000 from Somalia to Sumatra. Chilham Castle. ways it can help – particularly the children. •For more information visit www.ukfg.net. The wedding was held under strict secu- rity as the photographic rights had been sold to a glossy magazine. VIEWTHIS CLIP ON MP’s high hopes for the New Year TA unit to be granted yourkenttv.co.uk freedom of the borough LOCAL THE town’s MP who has been at the Commissioner,Bob Quick,is coming under centre of a political storm over the increasing pressure to stand down from TERRITORIAL Army unit,the REME 133 last month has declared his hopes for Ashford leading the investigation after he branded Field Workshop Company,is set to be grant- in the New Year. the Conservatives “wholly corrupt” for ed the freedom of the borough. In an interview recorded for our free broad- allegedly leaking Council chiefs agreed in principle to make band TV site,www.yourkenttv.co.uk before his a story to intimidate him and his investiga- the gesture at a meeting before Christmas controversial arrest,he looks positively on the tion. – and announced the decision last week.It year ahead as the high-speed rail service and It comes amid mounting speculation the coincided with 2008 being the centenary the completion of the new-look ring road kicks inquiry into Mr Green will be dropped later this year of the TA. in. month. Mayor of Ashford,Cllr John Link,himself Meanwhile,more senior positions are under Mr Green escaped the media furore over a former Royal Engineer,has been invited threat as a result of their role in Mr Green’s Christmas by going on holiday. to convene a special meeting of the council arrest in November. • To view the clip yourself, simply log-on to in the New Year to consider the formal The Metropolitan Police’s Assistant www.yourkenttv.co.uk and search ‘Damian’. resolution. l o n d a SPECIAL OFFER For all your ONPRODUCTIONOFTHISADVERT Buy 2 main meals in the bistro and The latest news, sport, TV, chat, entertainment and get a bottle of house wine. servicing information in your local area, available online. Whether it’s a quick Panini for lunch, or a delicious dinner with family needs visit Job vacancies Cars for sale Homes for sale and friends londa bistro and brasserie has it all cooked fresh everyday. Try our contemporary continental menus for a taste, style and yourlocal ambience new to Ashford. professionals Don’t fancy a meal? Your more than welcome to come and look around and relax with a freshly ground coffee and a Pages 36 refreshing ice cream. Call Now 01233 668800 113 Station Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 1PJ www.londa.co.uk Telephone editorial: 01303 817200 yourashford.co.uk 5 Email [email protected] Council still unhappy over yourashford plans for airport extension NEWS IN BRIEF DEVELOPMENT of the airport at Lydd will continue to be opposed by Ashford council after a meeting failed to allay its concerns. Bogus water officials Staged before Christmas,the planning com- mittee met with representatives from London on prowl, warn police Ashford Airport about its proposals to expand. The airport wants to increase the length of its runway and build a terminal capable of A WARNING to be on guard against fake catering for up to 500,000 passengers a year. officials preying on the vulnerable on their Although Shepway council will rule on the SHOPPING MECCA: Improved County Square and CAMPAIGN: Sellindge villagers have their hands full doorsteps has been issued by police. site,Ashford was consulted as a neighbouring It comes after two recent incidents in South council.It was concerned over an increase in town centre attractions should put town on the map with three threats to their peaceful way of life Ashford involving pensioners falling victim to noise and traffic on junction 10 of the M20.A door-to-door callers. final decision is expected early this year. Back on track In the incidents – both reported to police – intruders called claiming to be from the water Plans to make farmers board.They distracted the elderly homeown- ers and searched rooms for valuables,before tag flocks electronically stealing a number of items. Now police say householders should take extra precautions to ensure they do not fall SHEEP farmers in the borough are being asked as trains pick victim to the tricksters. to take part in a survey about the introduction They include: of electronic identification of their animals. • Always answer the door with the security The Government wants to introduce the chain on; new technology to keep better records of • Ask to see identification.If you are not sat- sheep movements but National Farmers’ isfied,you do not have to allow callers into Union chiefs are less happy about the new your house; legislation citing the extra costs involved. up pace again • If you’re still unsure, make an appoint- Under the proposed regulations,all sheep ment for the caller to come back at a time born in England after January 1 next year convenient to you and ask a neighbour or will have to be electronically tagged. friend to be with you; The questionnaire is available on the NFU • Join the nominated neighbour scheme; website at http://www.nfuonline.com/sheep- contact Paul Brosnan, Neighbourhood survey.xml and copies will also be available at Watch on 01233 896126. the local NFU regional office. ED HILL Yourashford reporter looks back at the events of last year and how they look likely to shape the news agenda over the next 12 months. FROM Jeremy Clarkson’s views on shared space to MP Damian Green’s arrest, the last few months of 2008 saw Ashford cata- pulted into the national spotlight. In fact,12 months ago we were making headlines again.Although back then it was the impending sense of gloom that Eurostar was turning its back on the town as it switched its attention to the all-new Ebbsfleet International as it was unveiled to the world. However,2009 is showing all the signs of being a vintage one for rail travel in a town built around the industry. Later this month,Eurostar will reinstate its much-missed direct route from the town to Brussels.And by the end of the year we’ll be able to hop on a train – albeit via an expensive ticket – and be in the capital in just 37 minutes. Keeping on a transport theme,the much- maligned shared space scheme will prove it’s either here to stay or a colossal disaster in ARRESTED: MP Damian Green was taken into custody 2009,as the eyes of Kent County Council and after a police investigation into alleged leaks from the the likes of media pundits such as Top Gear’s Home Office Clarkson,keep a sharp focus on it and its safety record. to intensify over the coming months. If it works,then it will open up the town But,without question,the most significant like never before – finally allowing it to factor weighing on the hopes and dreams in breath again after years of constraint within 2009 will be the economy.For a town identi- the suffocating ring road collar. fied for huge housing growth,we may finally If it fails? Well,get ready for a ridiculously see a slowdown as the banks remain appre- loud chorus of ‘we told you so’ from Clarkson hensive about lending. and his cronies. Woolworths has also blown a huge hole in MP Damian Green will certainly be keep- the centre of the town centre both of Ashford ing a close eye on things.However,he may be and Tenterden.We must all hope there are forgiven for paying more attention to a cer- no more casualties on our high streets. tain date in his diary next month.Because it But above all,we must all – as a communi- is then he must report back to police in ty – work together through potentially tough London as per the terms of his bail.After times to ensure 2009 is a year to remember – three months of investigations into allega- for all the right reasons. tions surrounding leaks of sensitive Home We live and work in a town with a bright Office information,he will be told whether he future.Where funds are being granted to faces charges. allow our community to flourish. Where It seems,perhaps,a little unlikely given major work on breathing new life into previ- the furore and cross-party outrage it has ously troubled areas will raise the standards sparked. for everyone. But stranger things have happened.Just The result should be a borough rich in ask the people of Sellindge. They started employment opportunities; a town centre 2008 living in a peaceful village.They enter acting as a shopping Mecca; industry the 2009 fighting the triple threat of a massive envy of the county;and,in time,a range of lorry park,sludge recycling centre and wind leisure and entertainment facilities to put an farm – all on its doorstep.The fight is likely even bigger smile on everyone’s face. 6 yourashford.co.uk Telephone advertising: 01303 817110 Email [email protected] I like to travel with someone I trust dover calais any duration web fare from 27 * £ each way car and up to 9 people PO ferries.com/your 08712 22 27 70 dover (cid:67)(cid:65)(cid:76)(cid:65)(cid:73)(cid:83)(cid:0)(cid:115) hull (cid:90)(cid:69)(cid:69)(cid:66)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:69)(cid:0)(cid:15)(cid:0)(cid:82)(cid:79)(cid:84)(cid:84)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:68)(cid:65)(cid:77)(cid:0)(cid:115) portsmouth (cid:66)(cid:73)(cid:76)(cid:66)(cid:65)(cid:79)(cid:0)(cid:115) cairnryan / troon larne (cid:115)(cid:0)(cid:76)(cid:73)(cid:86)(cid:69)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:79)(cid:76) dublin *Including all taxes and surcharges. Fare shown includes a £2.50 web discount. Full terms and conditions apply. Come and join our TN20s CLUB FOR 25% OFF Ashford Central food & drink at the hotel TN20’s Club If you live in the TNarea join our club Membership to receive 25% off food and drink. 25% off food & drink For more details contact [email protected] Application Form Name: ___________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ Email:____________________________________________ Tel:______________________________________________ The club is only valid at the Holiday Inn Ashford Central, Canterbury Road, Ashford, Kent. The discount can not be used in conjunction with any other offer and can be withdrawn without notice at any time. Please send by post to: Lynette Wood, Holiday Inn Ashford Central, Canterbury Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 8QQ Or email it to [email protected] For office use only – Key fob – Date Call: 01233 619600 Holiday Inn Ashford Central Canterbury Road, Ashford, Kent TN24 www.holiday-inn.com Telephone editorial: 01303 817200 yourashford.co.uk 7 yEmail [email protected] weather Fostering trustee SPONSOREDBY THE Caldecott Foundation, which provides residential [email protected] homes,a school,therapy and fostering service for children who have suffered cruelty and neglect, has appointed Dr TODAY’SFORECAST WEEKEND Alicia Etchegoyen (pictured) as a trustee. Dr Etchegoyen, who was consultant child HIGHTIDES and family psychiatrist at the Chelsea & Westminster Hospital for 25 years,co-edited the book The Importance of Fathers,and has Chatham Saturday 11.34am 5.8m published papers on subjects including child psychiatry and psychotherapy, training and Sunday 12.30am 6.1m medical education. Dover Saturday 10.04am 6.4m She also holds posts with the Healthcare Commission, the General Medical Council, 111000 Sunday 10.58am 6.6m the Nursing and Midwifery Council and the 111000 Dungeness Saturday 9.52am 7.3m Royal College of Psychiatrists. Amanda Ellingworth,chair of the founda- Sunday 10.47am 7.6m tion’s trustees, said: “We are delighted Dr Ramsgate Saturday 10.31am 4.8m Eextpchereigeonyceen,,hawsi tahg rheeedr tbor jeoaindt uhs oafs sak tirlluss taene.d” Sunday 11.26am 5.0m Sheerness Saturday 11.31am 5.6m Thumbs up Downtown S8.U0N0RAIMSE 4S.U0N3PSMET Sunday 12.27am 5.8m MOONRISE MOONSET Whitstable Saturday 11.37am 5.2m FTAhuSmT b riwsiinllg cfeulenbkr atfeo urt-hpeie cec omUpnledteiro n thoef 12.00PM 4.08AM Sunday 12.38am 5.4m the new album with a special launch party at FIVE-DAYKENTFORECAST the Downtown Diner later this month. The group, whose members hail from AROUNDTHE Ashford and Maidstone,will hold the launch Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon WORLDYESTERDAY party at the popular venue on January 25. It marks the completion of 10-track disc Ashford 2°C 4°C 4°C 3°C 4°C Gravesend 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Multicoloured Elephants. Canterbury 1°C 4°C 3°C 3°C 2°C Maidstone 2°C 3°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Amsterdam -1°C Madrid 3°C Promoter Sue Bell said:“Their alternative funky style creates an exciting sound and Chatham 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Ramsgate 1°C 4°C 3°C 3°C 2°C Athens 13°C NewYork 2°C makes them one of Barcelona 9°C Paris -1°C Kent’s must-see live Dartford 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Rochester 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Beijing -1°C Rome 8°C bands.” Dover 2°C 3°C 3°C 3°C 3°C Sevenoaks 1°C 2°C 3°C 2°C 3°C CBaopmebTaoywn 2297°°CC STeyndenreiyfe 2300°°CC PaTrikck eStstr eefto r evethnet Faversham 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Sittingbourne2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C Cardiff 3°C Tokyo 10°C cwohstic £h5 i.nTclhued eesv ean hinosgt, Folkestone 2°C 3°C 3°C 3°C 3°C Tonbridge 2°C 3°C 5°C 3°C 4°C Gibraltar 14°C Vancouver 3°C of other local live HongKong 21°C Warsaw -11°C acts,gets under way Gillingham 2°C 4°C 4°C 4°C 4°C TunWells 2°C 3°C 5°C 3°C 4°C LasPalmas 18°C Wellington 19°C at 7.30pm. 646 muscles pushing, pulling, lifting 30 simple minutes adding years to your life 14 ways to reduce the wobbly bits 7 more lengths before that skinny latte One of a kind Join today and pay no joining fee... 19 Plus get a free weight loss ideas to guarantee weight loss programme worth £85 Terms and conditions apply. Leisure and Spa at 01233 219988 Ashford International Hotel Ashford, Kent www.leisureandspaatQHotels.co.uk 8 yourashford.co.uk Telephone advertising: 01303 817110 Email [email protected] yourlocalinterview QCan you tell us about your role as fund-raising support Project that I decided I’d really like to pursue AWhen I started with Macmillan in May QUESTION& ANSWER assistant? a career within the charity sector. 2008,I was involved with a sponsored walk AMy main duties as FSA are to provide sup- I approached Macmillan as a volunteer but at Penshurst Place, just four days prior to port to two fund-raising managers and was lucky enough to be offered a full-time posi- starting. ensure the office runs smoothly. tion at the Kent office. I helped as much as possible,putting togeth- LISA WELLS Often I am the first point of contact,so I er packs for the Army cadets and helping with meet a diverse range of people.On a typical QTell us about Macmillan Cancer Support admin for the day.It was great to see the team day I’ll speak to volunteers such as committee in action and to introduce myself to our sup- members or our schools speaker,Macmillan AMacmillan provides practical, medical, porters and volunteers. staff and other supporters who may be doing emotional and financial support to people I am very involved with our Medway group, anything from sponsored slims to running affected by cancer.We have set ourselves the which raises funds solely for the Macmillan marathons to raise money. ambition of reaching and improving the lives Cancer Care Unit at Medway Maritime I am also responsible for thanking donors of everyone living with cancer by 2010. Hospital in Gillingham. and banking donations,writing press releases At a local level we have more than 100 Kent- We organised a fund-raising day in October for our website,providing admin support dur- based Macmillan nurses, doctors and other which made £500.I support the group by rais- ing local and national events and solving prac- health professionals such as our dietician and ing awareness of events, providing fund- tical problems in our office. speech and language therapist,who have the raising materials and sourcing raffle prizes. Every year,Macmillan holds collections at expert knowledge to help make living with Our Christmas fair included a perfume tom- Tesco and Morrisons stores across Kent. I cancer easier. bola from John Lewis.We raised more than helped co-ordinate the Tesco collections in In 2007, Macmillan gave more than £1,000,which was fantastic. October which raised more than £16,000. £210,000 in small grants to about 600 Kent In September I hosted my own coffee morn- Recently I have been working to deliver the cancer patients.These grants can help cover ing as part of Macmillan’s World’s Biggest same success at our Morrisons collections. the cost of transport to hospital,a warm duvet, Coffee Morning. I organised games, raffles, It is a varied role with lots of opportunities to or even a much-needed family holiday. food and drink.We raised £559. meet supporters and attend events.It is chal- lenging and demanding – no two days are the QWhat is it like to work for such a worthwhile cause? QWhat is the highest amount ever raised from an event? same – but also very rewarding. AIt’s a charity that is close to my heart and AThe highest amount I have received was QIs working for a charity something you planned to do? I’m sure this is the case for many people.I £10,832 from the Rochester and Cobham am always greeted very positively because Park Golf Club. AAfter university,I found it extremely diffi- people are so interested in the charity and The captains at the club chose Macmillan as cult to find a job without having real busi- want to support such a good cause. their charity of the year and worked tirelessly ness experience. to produce this fantastic amount.The money It wasn’t until a friend offered me some work QCan you give us some examples of fund-raising events or was collected through fund-raising days,raf- experience at a charity called the Riverwood activities that you have helped to organise? fles,a hog roast and a silent auction. & Fund-raising support assistant Lisa Wells speaks to Nick Ames about the amazing work done by Macmillan nurses and why they need our help in easing the burden of people living with cancer Telephone editorial: 01303 817200 yourashford.co.uk 9 Email [email protected] EDITOR’S CHOICE You can view all these videos and others from around the county with the click of a mouse at... Dr Ed Jarzembowski guides One of the country’s most Kieran Renihan, from Deal, County MP Damian Green Hurtling down the Cresta us around the old Fremlins entrancing wonderlands – reveals how to make talks about what a new Run, Chatham, to the music yourkenttv.co.uk brewery in Maidstone. the marshes of The Swale. natural chocolate. Search president means for of Queens Of The Stone Age. Search ‘Fremlins’ Search ‘Oare’ ‘chocolate’ America. Search ‘Damian’ Search ‘Cresta’ Water shortage fears Picture:PHILHOUGHTON for the Kent desert MEATY: Chris Rook (centre) presents Florence Neves (cid:2)BYNICK AMES and her son Michael with their festive hamper. A prize turkey KENT falls into a part of the UK which has less water per head of population than that available to ONE lucky KOS Media reader had a tasty the inhabitants of largely desert Christmas to remember after winning a countries Morocco and Egypt. food-lovers’ competition in our newspapers. Butcher JC Rook and Sons,which has The county is one of the areas of “serious shops across the county,offered a luxury water stress” identified in an Environment hamper worth more than £1,000 to make Agency report on the state of the nation’s sup- sure the winner enjoyed the festive period plies which states that in the event of a hot dry in style. summer rationing and hosepipe bans would More than 2,500 readers entered compe- inevitably come into force. tition,but it was Florence Neves and her The survey warns that many lakes,estuar- son Michael from Sittingbourne who took ies and rivers are drained so quickly to provide home the turkey. fresh water for Britain’s growing population Other tasty treats included Kent-reared there is a danger to wildlife and public sup- beef, pork and lamb, a goose, smoked plies during dry years. salmon, cheeses, cakes, biscuits and of The Environment Agency says people are course wines,whiskey,brandy and port. still wasting too much water in their homes, while water companies are allowing supplies Drop in stab deaths to escape from leaking pipes. It calls for the speedier introduction of water meters such as those introduced in Folkestone and on Romney Marsh – and for more reser- FIVE people were stabbed to death on the voirs and desalination plants to be considered streets of Kent and Medway last year,new only as a last resort. figures have revealed. Trevor Bishop,the head of water resources, The Conservatives found that the num- said:“We are trying to change the way we ber of fatal stabbings in England and manage water resources and put in place the Wales during 2007-08 had reached a record right incentives for people to use less water. high with five people a week nationally los- “There are three main ways – metering of ing their lives to knife crime. customers,tackling leakage and more water LOW: Water levels have dropped at Bewl, meaning supplies have to be supplemented from other sources Figures for Kent Police showed five peo- efficiency in the home.” ple had been killed due to knife violence in According to the agency,homes with meters “Over the next 30 years, there will be Compared to the rest of Europe, water 2007-08,down from six in 2006-07. use 13 per cent less water than those paying increasing pressures from the rising popula- resources are under greater stress only in James Brokenshire, the shadow home fixed water rates. tion and associated development,”it states. drier countries such as Cyprus,Malta,Spain affairs minister, called for the offence of Mr Bishop added:“We are calling for meters, “Looking further ahead,the impact of cli- and Italy,the report added. knife possession to carry an automatic jail but done in the right way.” mate change could have a major impact on the In recent years hosepipe bans have been sentence. The report says the pressure is greatest in water available for all uses.” introduced in the summer across much of “The Government’s only response is short the South East and warns that the risk of Computer forecasts of climate change sug- the county and supplies – including those term,ad-hoc police operations,the results water shortages, hosepipe bans and other gest winters will be wetter on average in drawn from Bewl Water – have had to be of which they spin and manipulate anyway restrictions will increase in the next few Britain but summers will be drier,particular- supplemented by river water from the to try and get a good story,2009 must her- decades. ly in the South East. Medway. ald a new approach.” New range of courses for young people with few or no qualifications Course areas for young people and adults starting from January 2009 • Access to Higher Education • Catering and Hospitality • Electrical • ESOL • Health and Social Care • I.T. • Management • Marketing • Teacher Training Find out more • Go to www.southkent.ac.uk • Ask at one of our main campus receptions • Call 0845 207 8220 For essential short courses at work go to www.t4b.org.uk 10 yourashford.co.uk Telephone advertising: 01303 817110 Email [email protected] m one one o life club o i n f r 2 0 * j £ s t stopyour jsHup ua rcrey !s Laivmaiitlea db le ! resolutions going shaped pear The lifestyle you want, with the excellent facilities you expect, at a price that offers real value - there is only one... B Eureka Leisure Park, Ashford 01233 653700 Bannatyne’s Health Club www.bannatyne.co.uk *Terms and conditions apply. Power Plates only present in selected clubs.