Kennington News September 2015

DELIVERED TO 5,000 HOMES

Keep fit on the trim trail

SEPTEMBER 2015 Published by Kennington Community Forum

T

HE campaign for a Kennington Community Council has received full backing from Ashford Borough Council.

It is recommending that Kennington should have a parish council, styled Kennington Community Council.

There would be six wards in the parish with a total of 16 councillors. The first elections would be in May 2019.

Kennington Community Forum chair Chris Morley said: “This is great news and the result of an excellent campaign, but we will continue to push for the community council to start at the earliest possible date.”

The Forum submitted a petition signed by 1,090 electors calling for the creation of a Community Council to give residents a more powerful voice and control over local affairs.

The proposals by ABC are part of draft recommendations following a Community Governance Review.

A final decision will be made in February 2016 after a consultation period, with the consultation process due to be agreed by ABC’s cabinet meeting on 10 September.

U

nder the proposals Kennington would gain polling district NW1 from Willesborough (Conningbrook Lakes and Batchelors), which is in line with a recommendation from the Local Government Boundary Commission.

Properties in Sandyhurst Lane would become part of Westwell Parish Council.

The Community Governance Review says the make-up of the Community Council should be warded to reflect Borough Council ward boundaries.

KENNINGTON (electorate 1,896): Four councillors LITTLE BURTON FARM (2,262): Four councillors BYBROOK (1,975): Four councillors PART OF BOCKHANGER (1,645) Community Ward name Grosvenor Hall: Three councillors PART OF BOUGHTON ALUPH & EASTWELL (513): Community Ward name Kennington North: One councillor PART OF NORTH WILLESBOROUGH: Becomes part of Kennington Ward. No residents, so no councillor.

The consultation period is open until 30 October. www.ashford.gov.uk/ community-governance-review

Kennington’s long-awaited Trim Trail at Spearpoint Recreation Ground is on track for delivery in September.

The trail has ten pieces of exercise equipment located around a 1,000-metre circuit, starting near the car park.

Users can follow the route,

jogging between stations, or just use part of the set. It can be used for all fitness levels and age ranges of 12 to adult, to help get fit and keep fit.

The project has been funded by Ashford Borough Council, Kent County Council and Kennington Community Forum.

Council backs our campaign

Oh baby, it was such fun!

Three of the youngest visitors to Kennington Summer Fayre. A record amount was raised for charities and local voluntary groups. More pictures and story on Page 3.

Pictures: KERRIE WILSON

Open day at Conningbrook Lakes A Community Open Day is being held at Conningbrook Lakes on Saturday 12 September. There will be a range of water-based demonstrations and taster events on the lake including canoeing and sailing.

Visitors will be able to go on guided walks with the Kent Wildlife Trust; there will be music and a selection of Ashford

Farmers’ market stalls plus information stalls including Kent Wildlife Trust, Kentish Stour Countryside Project, the Environment Agency and local sports clubs. Fun activities include the Monster Bike from Cycle Circle.

There is parking at the adjoining Julie Rose Stadium, but it is hoped many visitors will walk,

cycle, or use public transport.

The event runs from 11am-4pm and entry is free.

Conningbrook Lakes, a former quarry site off Willesborough Road, is being transformed into a country park by the Brett Group and Ashford Borough Council. The project will be funded by a “lakeside village”

of 300 homes.

PLAN TO BUILD 60 HOMES ON FARM LAND A developer is planning 60 homes on Kennington farm land. Orchard Farm, Kennington Ltd, wants to build detached, semi-detached and terraced properties between the Croft Hotel and Orchard Lane in Canterbury Road.

Ashford Borough Council says the development would not be out of scale with the surrounding residential built-up area and is not part of any

For all the latest news

larger scheme. It would be unlikely to have a visual impact sufficient to justify an Environmental Impact Assessment. Planning consultants CgMs said: “It is proposed that an application will be submitted for outline permission for the scheme at a later date.”

The 13-acre site is roughly rectangular and CONTINUED ON PAGE TWO

Kennington Community Forum

2

Ex-head admits £4,000 fraud A former Kennington head teacher has admitted defrauding his school of more than £4,000. Robert Juniper, 55, pleaded guilty to one charge relating to £4,228 between November 2011 and April 2013.

The ex-head of Phoenix Community Primary School in Belmont Road, who lives in Upchurch, was granted bail at Canterbury Crown Court until he is sentenced later this year. His former There was a pleasant surprise for Aniko Szocs when she organised a litter pick at Spearpoint Recreation Ground. She said: “The area was extremely neat and clean. I was very impressed especially as there are only a few rubbish bins. We only managed to collect one bag of litter.”

office manager Yvonne Pucknell pleaded not guilty to running up a £7,756 bill by misusing a school credit card between January 2011 and April 2013.

Pucknell, 62, from Bybrook Road, Kennington, also denied a second charge of fraud, involving £21,476 in overtime payments and also stealing £2,091 during the same period. The trial is expected to take place in November.

PLANS to prevent hairline cracks on all four sides of Kennington War Memorial from spreading are progressing.

The Forum has secured a grant of £500 from KCC via Cllr Jim Wedgbury towards inserting stainless steel tie bars.

KCC councillor Charlie Simkins (Ashford Rural West) has agreed to re-allocate his £1,000 grant for a new Garden of Remembrance footpath to the project. The footpath plan has been halted because costs rose dramatically.

Speedy U-turn over bus stop plan It came as a shock when Kent Highways issued notices saying the lay-by outside Bella’s newsagents in Faversham Road was to become a bus stop clearway.

Parking would be banned from 7am-7am affecting hundreds of people who go to Bella’s, Marino’s Fish Bar, Simon & Matt Halls hairdressers and the 1st Choice Dry Cleaners.

But 48 hours later, following protests, the plan was scrapped.

Clare Ellen, KCC infrastructure

planner, said: “Ashford Borough Council have advised me not to proceed with the proposal.”

William Train, ABC technical administrator, said: “It was the result of a misunderstanding.”

ABC had asked Highways to look at the site during talks about making the lay-by outside Ashford Battery Company, further along Faversham Road, a bus stop clearway. Mr Train said: “We gave them unclear instructions. KCC thought we

wanted both to be clearways.”

Councillor Marion Martin who had called for the clearway outside the battery shop said: “I had absolutely nothing to do with the lay-by at Bella’s and was shocked when it came up. I quickly put the kibosh on it. After I spoke to ABC and KCC letters were sent to everyone who had contacted the council to say the plan would not go ahead.” Cllr Martin said the shops and lay-by were essential to the people of Kennington.

. . . BUT ANOTHER LAY-BY IS SET TO BE CLEARED A proposal to make the lay-by outside Ashford Battery Company in Faversham Road a bus stop clearway came as a blow to Dave Everett. He said: “I can’t afford to lose any more business and this is just another nail in the coffin. There is nowhere left to park. All the spaces behind the shops are taken by residents. I

could understand it if it was a busy bus stop but hardly anyone uses it and there’s only one bus an hour.” The proposal follows a request from Councillor Marion Martin. She said: “I’m concerned about my elderly people being unable to get on buses because vehicles are parked in the lay-by all day. I have had complaints

from 80 and 90 year olds. Buses have to stop in the middle of the road — it’s too dangerous.”

KCC intends to carry out the work, which prohibits parking between 7am-7pm Monday to Saturday, by the end of October.

Comments can be sent to bus.stops@kent.gov.uk until noon on 4 September.

NEIGHBOURS ASKED FOR THEIR VIEWS The first phase of consultation on the Neighbourhood Plan for Boughton Aluph, Eastwell & Goat Lees is about to begin.

The Plan gives local people the opportunity to shape the future development of their community up to 2030. A series of drop in events are planned for September where residents will be invited to give their opinions on what should be covered in their Neighbourhood Plan.

Thurs 17 September, 7pm-9pm at Goat Lees Primary School.

Friday 18 September, 7pm9pm Goat Lees Community Hall.

Sat 19 September, 11am- 2pm, Iron Room, Boughton Aluph.

Sun 27 September, 11am-4pm Sandyacres, Sandyhurst Lane.

Jason Matthews, chair of Boughton Aluph and Eastwell Parish Council said: “For the Neighbourhood Plan to succeed it must have the support and input of local people. These events are a vital opportunity for residents to make their voices heard.” Views can be submitted at www.parishplan.uk

ORCHARD FARM FROM PAGE ONE comprises vacant farmland and a group of farm buildings and agricultural sheds in various states of disrepair. Kennington Ward councillor Phil Sims said: “All residents who are concerned about the future of this site should register their concerns now. You should do this either by commenting, or objecting, by direct mail to the Planning Department, or by using the Planning Application webpage on the ABC website.

I urge all residents to do so.”

Council stays silent over parked lorries Ashford Borough Council has still not taken any action over lorries parked illegally overnight in Kinney’s Lane despite urgings from residents and Kennington Community Forum. The land belongs to Ashford Rugby Club who have told ABC that drivers ignore requests not to park there.

Forum chair Chris Morley said: “It would be difficult to fence off as Southern Water need access to the sewage works, but surely a solution could be agreed with them.”

County councillor Jim Wedgbury, who is taking up the matter, said a gate should be installed and Southern Water given a key.

Many thanks to everyone who kindly helped deliver copies of the June issue as several of our regular volunteers were incapacitated or unavailable. And a big thank you to all the regular delivery team.

If anyone could help deliver copies please call 01233 634410. Robin Britcher, Editor

3

Sunshine Summer Fayre raises a record £13,300

Pictures: KERRIE WILSON

Two pints please! The DreamDragons’ pantomime cow was a crowd pleaser. Below: The Dame and Bad Fairy in Sleeping Beauty

Wonders of the Warren Families had a fun day at Ashford’s Hidden Gem — the Warren. Mums, dads, grandparents and carers led children around the wood experiencing a range of woodland and outdoor craft. Kent Wildlife Trust led nature detective walks and a pond dipping session.

The day was a huge success attracting 148 children and 72 adults. On leaving one parent was heard to say: “Got them outside, NO TECHNOLOGY!” It was a joint venture between Sure Steps children’s centre team from Early Help and Preventative Services, Kent Wildlife Trust and Kent Adult Education.

Kennington Summer Fayre raised a record £13,300 for the 35 charities and local voluntary organisations that took part.

It was a gloriously sunny day and it is estimated more than 2,500 people visited the Recreation Ground — another record.

St Mary’s Church made £1,587, Kennington Scouts £1,569, Kennington Juniors PTA £1,000, Friends of Downs View £951, Kennington Cricket Club £884, Kent Greyhound Rescue £758 and Kennington Community Forum £585. All the stallholders were kept busy but the longest queues were for

ice creams and barbecued food. Arena events included music from Ashford Folk (above); maypole dancing

by Kennington CE Academy; the Downs View Infant choir; the award-winning Towers Cheerleaders; Body Attack!; a 20 minute pantomime by the DreamDragons theatre group, and a Fun Dog Show judged by staff from the Eureka Veterinary Centre. All 30 prizes in the Grand Draw were generously donated by local businesses. Jill Britcher, who organises the Fayre A winner in the Fun Dog Show with her husband Robin, More pictures on Kennington said: “It was another wonSummer Fayre Facebook Page derful community event.”

tudents with a S 100% attendance record at Towers’ Saturday school receive a reward. This year they went on a trip to the London Eye. Saturday school offers a range of activities from group reading to circus skills and is open to Years 7, 8 and 9.

Gardeners plot a return Ashford Allotments Society’s held a successful Summer Show at Kennington CE Academy, Upper Vicarage Road, and were so pleased with the new venue they hope to be back next year. Whether you’ve got a plot, are on the waiting list, or grow-your-own at home, www.ashfordallotmentsorguk.weebly.com has lots of useful advice tailored to this area.

GOOD SAMARITANS: Towers’ school students and staff handed out water to drivers queuing in Faversham Road because of Operation Stack.

4

C

OACHES taking students to Kingswood Activity Centre are causing damage by trying to access the Grosvenor Hall site from Bockhanger Lane. When drivers find the gate locked and a notice redirecting them they often get stuck and churn up the grass area at the top of the lane while turning round.

Graham Skinner, who lives in Bockhanger Lane, said: “The situation has improved a bit this year but we are still getting one or two a week.

“One of my neighbours has attempted to fill in gouges which can be up to 18 inches deep especially if there has been heavy rain.

“On one occasion a coach ended up going to the bottom of the lane and the driver badly damaged the bodywork attempting to reverse back up from the unmade-up part of the lane.”

Drivers are putting the wrong post code into SatNav systems. They are using the one for Grosvenor Hall, but entry to the adventure holiday centre is via Cemetery Lane, off the Canterbury Road.

A notice near the locked gate says: “We apologise, this gate is for staff only. For access to site and deliveries please proceed to our main gate.” It then gives the postcode for Cemetery Lane.

‘Wrong route’ coaches run into trouble Kingswood Centre manager Stephen Connelly believes the issue is affecting less than 1% of coaches arriving at the site.

But after a meeting with Kennington Forum chair Chris Morley and Bockhanger councillor Luke Powell, he said the centre will look at providing an additional sign closer to the junction of Bockhanger Lane and Rothbrook Drive to deter coaches from using this route. This would need consent from Ashford Borough Council and Cllr Powell will consider a contribution to the costs of this consent from his ward member grant.

Width restrictions have been ruled out

as this is an access route for emergency services.

Residents in Portland Close and Hurst Road which back on to the site have complained about noise from the centre.

Children are banned from games in the grass area between the accommodation blocks and the neighbouring houses, but with the turnover of school parties, and groups from the National Citizenship Scheme, this is sometimes not understood by new arrivals. Mr Connelly said anyone with concerns should contact the centre on 01233 618250.

Karate can be a life changer Karate can have a huge effect on children’s lives and even improve their school work, says evidence researched by the Kent Karate Schools. Even children who have an autistic spectrum condition can benefit. The Kent Karate Schools, established in Ashford in 1983, teaches hundreds of children throughout East Kent from five years upwards. Visit the website at www.kentkarateschools .co.uk or via Facebook www.facebook.com/ kentkarateschools to see how a child can benefit.

“As someone with Asperger’s, I have certainly benefited from karate,” says chief instructor Joe Ellis, 7th Dan black belt.

Pat Boorman hands a donation to EK Dementia Carers’ Support chief executive Sue Ross

Community group folds after 20 years Bybrook and Bockhanger Community group has folded after more than 20 years.

Only five or six people have attended meetings in recent years, so without the support of residents the group decided the only option was to call it a day.

Mike Foister, a founder member, said: “It’s very sad as we have had some good results for the community over the years.”

Chair Pat Boorman was thanked for all the time and effort she has put into keeping the group going for so long. It was decided to share the group’s funds of £444 between Parkinson’s UK Ashford Branch and the East Kent Dementia Carers’ Support Group.

THE ROSE INN To Contact Us Simply Call: 0800 772 0782

lynnstapley@hiltonnursingpartners.org.uk

Sunday lunches Bar menu 12 till 3pm Meal and a drink £7.50 Mon-Fri 5-9pm Function room for christenings, parties, etc Pool table and darts Sky and BT Sport Dave, Sara and their staff look forward to welcoming you to the Rose Inn Faversham Road, Kennington 01233 623871

5

Chipping in with plenty of concerns Calls for a youth club and repairs to the existing play equipment were among issues raised at a Chips and Chat evening in Bockhanger Square organised by Ashford Borough Council. There were complaints about the poor condition of the Square and the community centre.

Residents were concerned about rubbish, the new build proposal in Beecholme Drive garage area, and people riding motorbikes without crash helmets.

“We had a good turn out”, said Ollie Samways ABC community housing area manager, “and a lot of questionnaires were completed.”

About 100 people called in during the evening and were offered free fish and chips.

WORK TO “smooth out” the S-bend in Willesborough Road will be carried out next spring, Kent Highways has told Kennington councillor Phil Sims.

He said: “This has been a pet moan of mine for many years and I will believe it when I see queues of traffic trying to negotiate the roadworks.”

BONFIRE MENACE A PERFECT summer’s evening — and then some inconsiderate neighbour lights a bonfire. It is not against the law but care must be taken to ensure it doesn’t cause a nuisance. Councils can issue an abatement notice if a bonfire is causing a nuisance. Failure to stick to it can result in a fine of up to £5,000.

T

o celebrate the opening of the new and refurbished play area in Goat Lees, local councillors were joined by pupils from Goat Lees Primary School and youngsters from Goat Lees Community Centre who helped cut the ceremonial ribbon. The refurbished park, sited between Goat Lees Primary school and the community centre, features new play equipment for 0 to 11 year-olds, including

slides and climbing apparatus, a roundabout and a new set of cradle swings. As a result of the Goat Lees housing development, funding from Ward Homes was available allowing the council to provide the facilities.

Councillor Winston Michael (Boughton Aluph and Eastwell) said: “It's an excellent project which I hope is going to be well-used and well-loved by the community.”

FOOTPATH STILL PLUNGED INTO DARKNESS The footpath between Eureka Leisure Park and Nicholas Road is plunged into darkness every night because street lights on that section of Trinity Road have been switched off completely.

Kent Highways maintain that if the road had been built today lights would not have been installed. However, they were paid for by developer contributions and

to remove them would cost £1,000 each.

Each light uses £50 of electricity a year so it would take 20 years to break even.

Kennington Community Forum is still pressing for the lights to be switched on again. Chair Chris Morley said: “As we will soon be approaching the dark winter evenings I hope the issue can be resolved satisfactorily at an early date.”

DRIVING in Bybrook Road is a nightmare, says county councillor Jim Wedgbury.

“It’s made of concrete, it’s noisy, bumpy and needs replacing.” But this would be very expensive and Kent Highways says there is nothing wrong with it.

Cllr Wedgbury is calling for the road to be resurfaced.

PLANNING permission is being sought for the change of use of four ground floor rooms at Kennington Hall, Canterbury Road, from residential to use as a wedding venue, together with a new access off the A28 leading to a parking area for 40 vehicles.

THE GREAT STINK from farmers muckspreading in August lingered over a wide area of Kennington for a couple of weeks.

6

Call for a crossing after boy hit by car LEARNING There have been new calls for a in hospital. He said: “Thankfully were made to provide a pavement BIG IDEAS pedestrian crossing in Canterbury the boy’s injuries were minor. I on the other side about 60 years Road after a 12-year-old boy have been campaigning for speed ago, and previous Highways knocked down by a car as reduction and for a safe crossing at engineers have promised that a CAN BE FUN was he walked to school. this spot for ages, but all we get footway would be provided. I’ve

Woodcraft Folk offers a place where children make friends, build self confidence, go on summer camps and have fun while learning about climate change, social justice and democracy. Everything in Woodcraft Folk is about peace, teamwork and co-operation and young people lead the organisation at every level.

The Kennington group, now in its 31st year, meets on Tuesday evenings at Phoenix Primary School, Belmont Road.

The Wild Rose Elfins (6-9 years old) from 5.30-7pm followed

by The Shire Pioneers (10-12 years old) 7-8.30pm.

Activities include games, craft, art and singing. To attend a taster session or become involved as a volunteer please contact Colette on 07774 324993 or Elaine 07947 029668. www.woodcraft.org.uk THE RESULT of the Little Acre appeal hearing was due to be announced after this issue went to Press. It will appear on the Kennington Community Forum Facebook page. A developer wants to demolish 80 The Street and build six houses on the site.

It happened between Penlee Point and Spearpoint, outside the home of road safety campaigner Ted Prangnell. Ted was hit by a car at the same spot and needed years of after-care following three months

are excuses for not doing anything.

It is a route to school where children are dropped off and should be made safe. For much of the road there is only one pavement, often narrow. Plans and preparations

spoken to several people and all agree something must be done.”

Kent Highways has looked at options in the past but the road and footpath are too narrow at that point to safely take a crossing.

Bacon butty celebration

Kennington WI raised £449 at the Summer Fayre

All residents are invited to an Open Day at the Kennington WI Hall on Sunday 20 September to celebrate the movement’s centenary. The Institute will showcase its activities and display WI Scrapbooks which are a fascinating history of the WI, as well as Kennington. There will be bacon butties between 12.30 and 2pm, then tea and cakes until 4pm. Parking is available at the Scout Hall car park in Lower Vicarage Road.

SCHOOL IS SEEKING MORE GOVERNORS Goat Lees Primary School is looking for additional governors to join the Governing Body. There are no formal qualifications required, you just need to be over 18 and have an interest in this community school. If you have any ICT, project/building management or finance experience this would be useful but mainly the

enthusiasm and the time to commit to the role is what we are looking for. Governors work with the head teacher to ensure that children receive the best education possible. There is a full training package available and existing governors will mentor anyone who may be new to the role. For more information please contact the

Clerk to Governors via the school office on 01233 630201, who will send you an information pack, or go to www.kent.gov.uk/education and follow the menu for Education and Learning/School Governors. Any successful applicant may need to complete relevant checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB).

Easing the worry of living alone If you live alone or someone you care for does, do you worry what would happen in an emergency?

Ashford Lifeline is a 24 hour service providing an instant response at the touch of a button. You may need to use the alarm when you can't get to the phone due to injury, when feeling unwell, having suffered a fall or if there is an intruder. The alarm is there for any emergency. Ashford

NEW CURATE AT ST MARY’S

NICK UTTLEY BUILDER Bricklaying Carpentry Painting and decorating Plastering

Conversions Extensions Roofing Conservatories and patios

30 years experience Quality Work Guaranteed Free estimates Tel: 01233 628999

Kennington’s new curate Peter Newall has been teaching music and RE for 30 years. He was one of six people ordained as deacons by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

He said: “I’m looking forward to moving out of the micro-society found in schools into the wider society of a parish.”

To book a church hall contact Parish Administrator Michelle Saunders, on 01233 664820 or office@kennington-stmarys.org.uk Office hours 9am-12 Tuesdays to Friday.

Lifeline is part of Ashford Borough Council. The service is easy to set up with flexible payment plans available. The annual cost is £154.

But as James Hann, from ABC, told a Kennington Forum meeting it is a small price to pay if it enables a person to continue living at home, rather than go into care.

To find out more call 01233 642095 or email lifeline@ashford.gov.uk

7

WEALTH OF WILDLIFE AT NATURE RESERVE

by Heather Silk The ecologist has now completed bat, amphibian and reptile surveys at Bybrook Nature Reserve and we are awaiting his reports. Moorhens, which have bred successfully, are frequently seen and a Grey Heron is a more irregular visitor.

I am now chair of Friends of Bybrook Nature Reserve, having taken over from acting chair Chris Morley. At the moment, there is one vacancy on the committee and the position of secretary will also be vacant in the near future, so if you are interested in either

position or would like to join the Friends group, please contact Matthew Mordaunt at www.kentishstour.org.uk or call 03000 410900.

Later this year there will be the opportunity to help with work on the Reserve.

BEWARE OF THE ROOF SCAMMERS Two men conned a woman in Grosvenor Road out of £100 after telling her some roof tiles needed replacing. They claimed to be from Swale Roofing Services. A neighbour said: “All they did was put a bit of cement between five tiles. The company name does not exist.”

One of men was about 6ft, with dark hair; the other was about 5ft 8 with “dirty blond hair.”

REMEMBER WHEN . . .

Faversham Road before the parade of shops was built.

Ferdi Lethert House is on the site of the large detached house that was demolished in the 1960s

CHOLOE’S GOT TALENT Choloe He’s piano playing won her first prize in a Kennington’s Got Talent competition.

She is pictured with runner-up, singer Sienna Barham, and The Charity Singing Girls who were third in the Kennington CE Academy contest.

A RECORD number of Towers students have got into their first choice of university.

Principal Richard Billings said: “I don’t know one who hasn’t.

We are particularly pleased with the psychology results.”

MELANIE GIBSON will talk about the history of Morris dancing at Bybrook WI’s meeting on Tuesday 8 September in Mary’s Community Centre, Rylands Road, 7.30pm. Visitors are welcome.

QUEEN WISHES PHYLLIS A HAPPY 100th BIRTHDAY Phyllis Stace proudly shows off the card she received from the Queen on her 100th birthday.

A few days earlier children at Kennington CE Academy sang Happy Birthday to her at a special assembly. Mrs Stace started at the village school in 1920.

STREET LIGHTS around the shops in Little Burton are still not working. Ward Councillor Marion Martin said: “We are trying to find out who is responsible for them as several landlords are involved. I have been working on this for four years.” Cllr Martin said anyone wishing to raise an issue should contact her on 01233 628811. “I try to answer emails but I prefer talking to people.”

ASHFORD BATTERY COMPANY After trading in Ashford for 35 years as Beaver Batteries we are now proud to re-introduce ourselves as Ashford Battery Company. It’s the same location and the same familiar faces, just a new name.

Great range of batteries for cars, vans, motorcycles, caravans, mobility scooters and lawnmowers.

We provide a call out for battery fitting, just give us a ring.

We stock many vehicle parts and accessories. We can arrange MOTs and can provide car servicing, repairs, maintenance and computer diagnostics for most vehicles.

156 Faversham Road, Kennington, Ashford 01233 640835 www.ashfordbatt.co.uk Kennington News is printed by Geerings Print Ltd, Ashford 01233 633366

8

CRICKETERS IN BATTLE FOR GLORY With the end of the season fast approaching it has been a challenging year for Kennington Cricket Club. The 1st XI have not performed to the level expected and are mid-table in their League.

However, the 2nd XI produced some excellent results in a lower League and are still involved in a head-to-head battle with Whitstable to become champions. They must win their last two games to clinch the title.

In the Junior section the club has run teams in all four age groups in the Ashford and District Junior Cricket League and did particularly well in the

Under 15’s and Under 11’s. Several Juniors are now playing regularly for the adult teams. The club are looking to expand the Junior section next year and any boy or girl in Year 4 upwards who wants to join should ask their parents to contact John Cunningham on 01233 612162 or email john.cunningham@kenningtoncc.com The pavilion is now being hired by two local organisations to run dance classes, and parties have also been accommodated. Anyone interested in hiring the pavilion should contact Terry Deary at terry.deary@kenningtoncc.com JC

Promotion comes at a price Promotion to the Kent County Premier Division has cost Kennington FC their prestigious home ground, the Julie Rose Stadium (right).

“Unfortunately our success means we have had to move to Sandyacres, in Sandyhurst Lane,” said chairman Graham Oxley. “With the Premier Division having more teams, extra fixtures means we have to play some home matches in August and May and the Julie Rose is principally an athletics stadium.

“However, Sandyacres is a fantastic facility and we have struck a deal to have exclusive use for our teams there on Saturdays.”

Mr Oxley said the 1st team will again be managed by Dan

Scorer assisted by Andy Wood and Mark O'Gormley.

“The Reserves’ assistant manager Richie Moore steps into the hot seat assisted by Graham Prior and Andy Worthington.

Keith Rice returns to the club as manager of the Sunday side with Mike Hodges as his assistant.

“We welcome any local support

for the lads next season, so if any Kennington News readers would like to watch some entertaining grass roots football and have a drink in the excellent bar at Sandyacres we would be pleased to see them.”

All the latest club news can be seen at kenningtonfc.co.uk or on the club’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

‘OCTOBER START’ ON NEW PAVILION Work on the new £875,000 pavilion at Spearpoint Recreation Ground is expected to start in October. The tender for the design and build opened on 28 August and the winning contractor will be named shortly.

Community groups will be able to hire the building.

KENNINGTON COMMUNITY FORUM We take an active role in looking after the interests of the people and the environment of our area.

We hold six public meetings a year and publish the quarterly Kennington News supplemented by web and social media sites.

The Forum is run by volunteers.

For more details contact Chris Morley 01233 611196 or visit our website bit.ly/kennington

NEXT MEETING: AGM 29 Sept, St Mary’s Community Centre, Rylands Road, 7.30pm

Information COUNTY COUNCILLORS: Andrew Wickham (Ashford Rural East) 01233 840902 andrew.wickham@kent.gov.uk Jim Wedgbury (Ashford Central) 01233 503272 jim.wedgbury@kent.gov.uk BOROUGH COUNCILLORS: Kennington: Phil Sims 01233 627603 philip.sims01@gmail.com Bockhanger: Luke Powell 01233 713384 luke.powell@ashford.gov.uk Bybrook: Andrew Buchanan 01233 627696 andrewjohnbuchanan@hotmail.com Little Burton: Marion Martin 01233 628811 marionmartin168 @btinternet.com Boughton Aluph: Winston Michael 01233 636644 winston.michael@ashford.gov.uk.

NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE : PCSOs Nikki Relf and Katie Scott.

Call 101 to be put through to the neighbourhood officer best placed to deal with your call PARKING PROBLEMS: 01233 330641 KENT HIGHWAYS: 03000 418181 NEW HAYESBANK SURGERY: 01233 624642 LATE NIGHT CHEMIST: Sainsbury’s, Simone Weil Avenue 01233 662819 MEDICAL HELP BUT NOT AN EMERGENCY: 111 (available 24/7) A&E OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY: William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331 REV RICHARD KING: 01233 623334 STAGECOACH BUSES: 08456 002299 KENNINGTON FORUM: Chris Morley, chair, 01233 611196 chris.f.morley@gmail.com Sandra Dunn, secretary, 01233 634165 sandradunn@sky.com Kennington News is published in March, June, September and December.

Editor Robin Britcher 01233 634410 kennington.news@hotmail.co.uk

@kenningtonnews