Table Of Content

Kent on Sunday PICK UP YOUR FREE www.kentnews.co.uk January 27, 2013 MID KENT EDITION Issue no 540 Chilling fact ENVIRONMENT Take part in big birdwatch is every two THE RSPB is hoping tens of thousands of people across the county will take part in its annual survey to monitor the number and variety of birds in hours an old our gardens this weekend. The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s biggest wildlife survey. Find out how to take part inside. PAGE 3 person dies LITERATURE From ‘geek’ to superheroes from the cold A BEST-selling author, who has also penned comic strip adventures for superheroes such as Superman, Batman, Iron Man and X Men, is hoping Exclusive by Marijke Cox KCF – an independent charitable foun- to prove a hit with his first [email protected] dation helping to raise money for local novel designed for children. causes – called this colder period “the We talk to the multi-million ONE elderly person in Kent is dying danger time”. selling Dan Abnett inside about every two hours during the winter She said: “When temperatures have his growing fame. PAGE 23 months – as a direct result of the cold. plummeted, and due to changes in their It means over the course of the three physiology, the elderly – particularly winter months – December, January and those over 75 – are at risk due to the ex- CRIME February – around 1,000 people will treme cold.” Fresh leads in have their death attributed to not being And worryingly, chief executive of warm enough. Age UK in Maidstone, Paul Coles, said in hunt for killer And with fuel costs rocketing, it is parts of Kent many elderly people are feared the situation shows little sign of “capital rich, but cash poor” meaning easing. they can’t afford expensive heating bills. AN EMOTIONAL memorial The shocking statistic was revealed He explained: “They turn their heat- walk to mark 20 years since by the Kent Community Foundation ing off to try and save money which is the brutal death of teen- (KCF), based on government figures. one of the problems. ager Claire Tiltman sparked a It was released following the coldest “Kent has quite extreme weather number of calls to police. BATTLING TRAUMA week of the year so far, with tempera- compared to other parts of the country The 16-year-old was tures plunging as low as -8C at night and it does tend to snow in winter. stabbed as she walked to a and struggling to get above zero C dur- “If an elderly person can’t get out, they friends house in 1993. Her ing the day. become isolated. If they have a fall, killer has never been found. Carol Lynch, chief executive of the Continued on page 2 SUPPORT: NHS to invest in mental health care for former soldiers – SEE INSIDE Full details inside. PAGE 21 FFIIXXEEDD PPRRIICCEE SSEERRVVIICCIINNGG OOFFFFEERRSS GGOOLLDD SSEERRVVIICCEE ££116699..9999 SSIILLVVEERR SSEERRVVIICCEE ££113399..9999 BBRROONNZZEE SSEERRVVIICCEE ££6699..9999 ffrroomm ffrroomm ffrroomm ASK ABOUT OUR FREE MOT OFFER Terms and conditions apply a brand of pomphreys Tribune Drive • Trinity Trading Estate • Sittingbourne •LondonRoad • Bapchild • Sittingbourne 2 I week ending January 27, 2013 KMI www.kentnews.co.uk News Download your FREE Kent News iPhone and iPad App INSIDE CARE (cid:78)(cid:0)News................2-23 As thousands die from the cold more needs (cid:78)(cid:0)Comment/Feedback 24-25 (cid:78)(cid:0)Kent Remembered .....26 to be done to protect the vulnerable elderly INSIDE (cid:13)(cid:29)(cid:30)(cid:16)(cid:33)(cid:21)(cid:25)(cid:19)(cid:1) (cid:11)(cid:7)(cid:10)(cid:8) (cid:28)(cid:29)(cid:14)(cid:25)(cid:16)(cid:6)(cid:30)(cid:27)(cid:7)(cid:1) (cid:9)(cid:7)(cid:10)(cid:8) KentW(cid:12)(cid:25)(cid:13)(cid:8)(cid:26)(cid:8)(cid:17)(cid:12)(cid:29)(cid:14)(cid:7)(cid:1)(cid:9)(cid:14)(cid:24)(cid:8)(cid:24)(cid:1)(cid:33)(cid:4)(cid:22)(cid:26)(cid:6)(cid:5)(cid:1)(cid:21)(cid:23)(cid:29)e(cid:4)(cid:17)(cid:28)(cid:3)(cid:1) eken(cid:2)(cid:27)(cid:11)(cid:13)(cid:18)(cid:8)(cid:14)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:23)(cid:8)(cid:12)(cid:1)(cid:19)(cid:26)d(cid:22)(cid:1)(cid:12)(cid:13)(cid:27)(cid:7)(cid:25)(cid:18)(cid:1)(cid:15)(cid:27)(cid:9)(cid:12)(cid:12)(cid:15)(cid:8)(cid:21)(cid:20)(cid:21)(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:5)(cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:23)(cid:3)(cid:1)(cid:26)(cid:16)(cid:17)(cid:1)(cid:24)(cid:27)(cid:15)(cid:25)(cid:24)(cid:1)(cid:1) Continued from front page keep their heating on – even if tion, identification of vulnera- By donating the money – they just heat the room they’re ble people and interventions.” which is as much as £200 – to (cid:13)(cid:16)(cid:16)(cid:18)(cid:21)(cid:17)(cid:18)(cid:23) they may lie there in their in – but I also understand that Coling Thompson is public KCF, the charity can then (cid:14)(cid:16)(cid:20)(cid:18)(cid:16)(cid:26)(cid:18)(cid:21)(cid:17) house, unable to move through fuel poverty is a real problem.” health specialist for NHS Kent redirect it to cash-strapped (cid:10)(cid:17)(cid:17)(cid:29)(cid:1)(cid:29)(cid:20)(cid:17)(cid:1)(cid:18)(cid:14)(cid:25)(cid:1)(cid:32)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:1)(cid:32)(cid:21)(cid:24)(cid:24)(cid:1) the night when it gets colder. A public health report stated and Medway. prompted KCF, and over-50s households to help towards (cid:15)(cid:26)(cid:25)(cid:31)(cid:21)(cid:9)(cid:25)(cid:21)(cid:15)(cid:25)(cid:17)(cid:19)(cid:1)(cid:33)(cid:1)(cid:26)(cid:26)(cid:18)(cid:30)(cid:1)(cid:11)(cid:1)(cid:29)(cid:26)(cid:20)(cid:27)(cid:14)(cid:1)(cid:29)(cid:24)(cid:21)(cid:1)(cid:31)(cid:29)(cid:20)(cid:17)(cid:17)(cid:28)(cid:1) “If people notice an elderly that for every degree Celsius He said: “There are actions provider Saga, to call on com- bills, as well as outreach serv- (cid:8)(cid:5)(cid:5)(cid:1)(cid:7)(cid:4)(cid:6)(cid:5)(cid:1)(cid:2)(cid:3) neighbour hasn’t been bring- that the outdoor temperature that people can take to mini- munities to consider the vul- ices which stop elderly people ing their milk in or the post falls below the winter average, mise the risks of cold weather. nerable elderly people in the becoming isolated. hasn’t been collected, please there are 8,000 extra winter These include making sure the colder months. Ms Lynch said: “The Govern- check on them. Or check in on deaths in England; equating to temperature of their home is They are also asking more ment’s Warm Homes Healthy them anyway when it’s cold.” around 240 in Kent. kept between 18C and 21C, well-off households who re- People Fund has offered to The number of deaths tradi- Kent director of public stocking up on basic food items ceive the Government’s winter match the money we raise from tionally rises over the winter health, Meradin Peachey, said and medicines to minimise the fuel allowance to donate it to public donations to the Surviv- (cid:78)(cid:0)Interview ..............29 months, but the latest statistic older people with underlying need to go outside when it is needy people through KCF’s ing Winter Fund, but we are in (cid:78)(cid:0)Food and Drink.........33 will come as a surprise to many circulatory or respiratory dis- cold, and ensuring that they Surviving Winter campaign – need of more generous donors in our modern society. ease have the greatest risk of wear warm winter clothing in- which this newspaper supports. in order to be able to make the (cid:78)(cid:0)LEISURE Mr Coles added: “It’s like being affected by the cold. cluding a hat, scarf and warm Every household with resi- most of this generous match.” Attractions, events, stage, Christmas is a target and once “Tackling excess winter deaths coat if they do have to go out- dents over the age of 60 receives ■ Visit http://www.kentcf. exhibitions, theatre, arts, that is over they give in. should involve a three-stage doors.” the fund every winter, regard- org.uk/surviving_winter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30, 34-36 “We urge elderly people to process that includes prepara- The number of deaths has less of their financial position. html to donate to the appeal. (cid:78)(cid:0)Business ..........38-39 EDUCATION (cid:78)(cid:0)Training and careers....40 (cid:78)(cid:0)Property...............44 Tables put schools alongside (cid:78)(cid:0)Driving ............45-53 (cid:78)(cid:0)Jobs & Notices......54-61 (cid:78)(cid:0)Sport..............62-63 the country’s finest for GCSEs Weather (cid:2) (cid:18) By Marijke Cox The Marlowe Academy in Ramsgate, lish GCSE debacle, Kent schools could (cid:1)(cid:2) [email protected] while improved since last year, was at hold their heads high with their results. (cid:2) (cid:18) 10th in the lowest performing schools, “It was distressing to see headteach- KENT and Medway schools are topping with just 20 per cent of its pupils achiev- ers and children in tears when I went PLEASED: Cllr Mike Whiting has praised the list of the best in the country, ac- ing the benchmark five GCSEs at A*-C round the schools because of the Eng- the schools for their excellent results (cid:2) cording to GCSE league tables. including English and maths. lish GCSE problem. I’m hopeful they’ve They show official results from last Swan Valley Community School in moved on from that and progressed in Medway Council was also celebrating (cid:13)(cid:9)(cid:2)(cid:1)(cid:15)(cid:10)(cid:13)(cid:21)(cid:27)(cid:35)(cid:19)(cid:29)(cid:30)(cid:35)(cid:22)(cid:23)(cid:23)(cid:17)(cid:23)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:29)(cid:16)(cid:37)(cid:32)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:19)(cid:34)(cid:19)(cid:25)(cid:38) (cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:20)(cid:2)(cid:8)(cid:27)(cid:18)(cid:19)(cid:29)(cid:15)(cid:32)(cid:19)(cid:30)(cid:27)(cid:33)(cid:32)(cid:21)(cid:38)(cid:35)(cid:19)(cid:30)(cid:32)(cid:19)(cid:29)(cid:23)(cid:37)(cid:35)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:18)(cid:30)(cid:2)(cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36) August highlighting the top, middle Swanscombe was also in the lower ta- the way they planned.” good league table positions. (cid:32)(cid:19)(cid:24)(cid:28)(cid:46)(cid:38)(cid:43)(cid:26)(cid:4)(cid:40)(cid:45)(cid:47)(cid:38)(cid:47)(cid:26)(cid:7)(cid:39)(cid:2)(cid:13)(cid:9)(cid:8)(cid:6)(cid:4)(cid:5)(cid:13)(cid:10)(cid:5)(cid:29)(cid:37)(cid:15)(cid:25)(cid:18) and lowest performing schools. bles, with 24 per cent. It emerged after last summer’s results A spokesman said: “We congratulate (cid:17)(cid:23)(cid:19)(cid:15)(cid:29)(cid:2)(cid:13)(cid:21)(cid:27)(cid:35)(cid:19)(cid:29)(cid:30)(cid:16)(cid:37)(cid:18)(cid:15)(cid:35)(cid:25)(cid:2)(cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:32)(cid:19)(cid:24)(cid:28)(cid:43)(cid:38)(cid:45)(cid:4) Rochester Grammar School came Cabinet member for education at Kent that grade boundaries in GCSE English the pupils and teachers at the two sec- (cid:13)(cid:9)(cid:2)(cid:1)(cid:15)(cid:32)(cid:12)(cid:5)(cid:6)(cid:4)(cid:5)(cid:13)(cid:6)(cid:2)(cid:3)(cid:12)(cid:4)(cid:5)(cid:10)(cid:7)(cid:5)(cid:8)(cid:11) second nationally after every single one County Council, Mike Whiting, admitted had been raised significantly for pupils ondary schools in Medway listed that (cid:3)(cid:18)(cid:23)(cid:13)(cid:19) (cid:15)(cid:15)(cid:3)(cid:6)(cid:14) (cid:16)(cid:3)(cid:13) (cid:9)(cid:13)(cid:3)(cid:13)(cid:15) (cid:16)(cid:3)(cid:19) of its pupils gained five A*-C grades, in- some schools were not improving as fast sitting assessments in June compared are under local authority control as (cid:6)(cid:11)(cid:19)(cid:14)(cid:11)(cid:21)(cid:13) (cid:1) (cid:1) (cid:15)(cid:9)(cid:3)(cid:15)(cid:15) (cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:19) cluding maths and English. as others but work was under way for with those sitting early entries in Janu- their results have, yet again, improved (cid:8)(cid:21)(cid:6)(cid:11)(cid:19)(cid:24)(cid:25)(cid:20) (cid:6)(cid:17)(cid:3)(cid:17)(cid:2)(cid:19)(cid:3)(cid:17) (cid:15)(cid:18)(cid:3)(cid:6)(cid:16) (cid:19)(cid:3)(cid:13) Invicta Grammar School in Maid- both academies and maintained schools ary and March. from the previous year. These are St (cid:14)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:7)(cid:1)(cid:5)(cid:3)(cid:1)(cid:2) stone was also celebrating, having to ensure results got better. Figures showed that pass-rate grade John Fisher and The Howard School. (cid:6)(cid:18)(cid:17)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:43)(cid:26)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:47)(cid:4) scooped eighth place, and Folkestone He said he was delighted, however, boundaries had been raised by as much “The tables show results for 21 sec- (cid:9)(cid:22)(cid:13)(cid:20)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:43)(cid:31)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:1)(cid:4) School for Girls was close behind, at with the results of some schools. as 10 per cent. This resulted in a quar- ondary schools across Medway and 19 (cid:10)(cid:13)(cid:12)(cid:17)(cid:13)(cid:20)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:43)(cid:31)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:44)(cid:4) 14th. Tonbridge Grammar School, “Kent is improving faster than the ter of schools in the country seeing the of these are either academies or schools (cid:9)(cid:15)(cid:22)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:43)(cid:26)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:46)(cid:4) Chatham Grammar School for Boys and national average,” he said. “It’s a reflec- number of pupils awarded A*-C in GCSE that are independent from the council. (cid:5)(cid:19)(cid:16)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:42)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:41)(cid:4) Benenden School also featured highly. tion of the hard work, not least of the English drop by five per cent on 2011. “However, we would like to say well (cid:8)(cid:11)(cid:21)(cid:22)(cid:19)(cid:12)(cid:11)(cid:24) (cid:8)(cid:15)(cid:36)(cid:43)(cid:43)(cid:4) (cid:8)(cid:22)(cid:25)(cid:47)(cid:4) But while some were celebrating, oth- pupils, but also of headteachers, teach- Two exam boards came under fire done to all the pupils, as well as their ers found themselves at the bottom of ers and staff of the county’s schools.” and it was decided that pupils could re- teachers, for the hard work they have (cid:6)(cid:28)(cid:24)(cid:30)(cid:20)(cid:26)(cid:25)(cid:26)(cid:27)(cid:23)(cid:22)(cid:21)(cid:19)(cid:16)(cid:18)(cid:29)(cid:21)(cid:17)(cid:25)(cid:31)(cid:24) the league tables. He added: “Even in the face of the Eng- take the exam following the scandal. put in to achieve their results.” CONTACTS GARAGE DOORS Publisher: Simon Irwin Email [email protected] Editor: Chris Britcher Email [email protected] CRAZY SALE MADNESS Address: Apple Barn, Smeeth, TN25 6SS Editorial: News: 01303 817100 Leisure: 01303 817022 Sport: 01303 817177 Top of the range ‘remote controlled’ insulated aluminium rolling Email [email protected] Advertising: Jobs/Notices: 01303 817056 garage door, superb product maintenance free. Business: 01303 817056 Email [email protected] Totally secure and fully guaranteed. 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CROYDON • COLCHESTER 1LRtdE ( Canod R pergin Nteod 2 b1y7 4S1t 1C9l)e, mUneint t3s, PInrteesrsn (a1t9io8n8a)l The offer on our website does notinclude free fitting. www.segurogaragedoors.co.uk Business Park, Rick Roberts Way, Stratford, To benefit from this offer you should call:01622 765993 Quote Ref K.O.S London, E15 2NF www.kentnews.co.uk KMI week ending January 27, 2013 I 3 bringing you the latest news ▪ sport ▪ video ▪ jobs ▪ cars and property …Just visit the Apple App Store WILDLIFE NEWS IN BRIEF Make your garden count in birdwatch (cid:177)(cid:0)Gang snowball attack By Chris Britcher DETECTIVES are hunting a gang of youths [email protected] FEATHERED FRIENDS: who viciously attacked a 55-year-old man who asked them to stop throwing snowballs at his Blue tits were the third most TENS of thousands of people across the county recorded bird spotted in last house in Hoo. are set to take part in one of the biggest surveys year’s Big Garden Birdwatch He went outside his home in Knights Road at of our local bird populations this weekend. around 8.45pm on Monday and grabbed one of The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch runs across them by the arm, before he was punched in the Saturday and Sunday and hopes to provide a face and repeatedly kicked in the head. He was snap shot of the health of many of our most fa- then hit with an object on the back of the head. miliar feathered friends. He suffered injuries to his eye and cheek. Last year, more than 20,000 people in Kent (cid:177)(cid:0)Jobless figures drop took part, with close to 600,000 joining in the nationwide event from across the UK. UNEMPLOYMENT numbers across the county And it is hoped that after the recent cold snap, fell in the three months to November by 324 there could be a bumper number of birds to spot and now stand at 34,402. as they seek food in back gardens. Medway was one of the top performing areas Taking part requires the monitoring of your in the south as its number of people out of work garden for just one hour at any time over the figure fell by 153 to 6,655. weekend, and involves simply counting the For the remainder of the county the number number of each different species. fell by 171 to 27,747 More than nine million birds across the UK However, there were small rises in Canter- were counted last year, in what is believed to be bury, Dover, Shepway and Swale. the biggest wildlife survey in the world. 2012 TOP TEN (cid:177)(cid:0)Jail for robbing £3 fare Last year the house sparrow was the most common bird 1. House sparrow TWO men have been jailed for 18 months to be spotted in Kent, 2. Starling after robbing a 14-year-old boy of his £3 bus followed by the star- 3. Blue tit fare home. ling and the blue tit 4. Collared dove Stephen Campbell, 20, of Castle Hill Avenue, (see table). 5. Blackbird Folkestone, and Michael Beardmore, 31, of Samantha Stokes, 6. Wood pigeon Weavers Way, Dover, pleaded guilty following spokesperson for the 7. Chaffinch last June’s robbery in London Road, Dover. RSPB in the south 8. Great tit The court heard how the two men confronted east, said; “No mat- 9. Robin the teenager and grabbed him around the neck ter where people take 10. Goldfinch area, demanding cigarettes and money. part, whether at Source: RSPB Big The terrified boy, scared of being hit, handed Garden Birdwatch over his bus money. home with the fami- ly, with classmates at school or with friends in the beer garden of the local pub, we’re joining forces to gather vital information about some of like star- WINTER SALE our most familiar garden birds. lings and “It’s a great way to get to know the creatures sparrows over the that live around us, and that’s especially impor- last 30 years or so NOW ON tant for children. has been alarming, but “Feeding garden birds can often be a child’s Big Garden Birdwatch has helped us first encounter with wildlife and can spark a life- find out more about their numbers and distribu- IN BOTH STORES long interest in nature.” tion across UK gardens, and that has been the Following on from this weekend will be the Big first step in helping to put things right.” Schools’ Birdwatch, which runs all of next week. Some bird species have fared considerably bet- Now in its 34th year, the birdwatch has helped ter over the years. to highlight some dramatic declines in UK gar- Sightings of popular species like blue tits, great den birds. tits and coal tits in gardens have increased In the first survey in 1979, an average of 15 since 1979. Goldfinches, which were absent starlings were seen per garden, but that fell to an from the Big Garden Birdwatch top 15 in the average of just three in 2012, the lowest level early years, have featured regularly as a top 15 ever. House sparrow numbers have fallen by two species since 2004. thirds over the lifetime of the survey too. (cid:78) Visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch to find Miss Stokes continued: “The decline of birds out more and take part. CRIME Teen shone laser pen at helicopter Regal Oak A TEENAGER who dazzled ing consequences that night. an aircraft causes significant police by shining a laser pen Officers onboard were trying danger to not only the crew on Extending dining table Usually £989 Sale price £789 at a police helicopter as it at- to help colleagues on the board, but the public below. Chair Usually £145 Sale price £115 tempted fo find an injured man ground search for a man hurt “It is a criminal offence and it has been sentenced at youth after being involved in a could have fatal consequences. Display cabinet Usually £1468 Sale price £1169 court. collision. “Due to the equipment on Crafted from oak solids and veneers sourced The 17-year-old, from The teenager was sentenced board, the crew were able to from managed forests Hersden, near Canterbury, who at Canterbury Youth Court to a trace the offender’s exact 25,000 sq ftof beautiful furniture and beds for your home, including famous brands such as Parker Knoll, cannot be named for legal youth rehabilitation order location and used the aircraft Sherborne, GPlan Upholstery, Stressless byEkornes, Sealy, Slumberland and Reylon beds. reasons, shone the green laser which consists of a three- video camera to record the We also have a good selection of ex-display items atgreatly reduced prices, some with up to 50% off light in the cockpit of the month curfew. He must also incident. Nasons Furniture and Bed Centre helicopter on the evening of pay £40 costs and a £15 victim “Shining a laser at an aircraft December 16. surcharge. is a serious incident and we Maynard Road, Wincheap Estate, Canterbury Police say such an act was Russ Woolford, base will continue to prosecute potentially hugely dangerous manager at the Air Support anyone carrying out this 01227 463550 | www.nasons.co.uk of Canterbury and could have had devastat- Unit, said: “Shining a laser at offence.” 4I week ending January 27, 2013 www.kentnews.co.uk www.kentnews.co.uk KMI week ending January 27, 2013 I 5 News for more pictures and news go to www.kentnews.co.uk INVESTIGATION Pulling power of the micropubs No music, no TVs, no lager or spirits, just real ale – Joe Bill meets the people at the vanguard of a growing business model currently revolutionising the UK drinks industry AS THE high street struggles to cope with the Landlords starting up can select premises not deafening noise of falling retail giants, could previously used as a pub, they can select their their be some cheer on the horizon with a boom own cask ales and, in some cases, even impose in micropubs? some unusual rules. The low-key drinking holes are springing up As we reported last week, the Firkin Alehouse all around Britain, but it is in Kent, a county syn- in Folkestone bans the use of mobile phones and onymous with hops, in which they are thriving. charges its guests £1 if they have to use them, Setting up in former shop premises, the micro- with the cash going to charity. pub is a back-to-basics drinking experience, Parallels are being drawn with the retail sector which capitalises on the change to licensing as the economic climate continues to kill off chain laws eight years ago. stores but is allowing more niche Not tied to any big breweries, boutique shops, which add a lit- they source local real ales, shun tle character too, to flourish. lagers and spirits, ban video and With many experts suggesting gambling machines while the our town centres need to em- thought of big screen TVs sends brace a more continental ‘café a shiver down their spine. culture’ to inject life back into Instead, they rely on develop- them, the micropub may yet ing an atmosphere based on prove a vital component to its good company and good ale. revival. There are currently 16 in the What’s more, they are pro- UK – and seven of those are in viding a shot in the arm for mi- the county. What’s more, they’re crobreweries – of which there set to double in the county with- are around 25 in the county. in the next few months. At the Conqueror Alehouse in One of the founders of the mi- Ramsgate the micropub landlord cropub boom is Martyn Hillier, offers Gadds’ Ramsgate RPA landlord of The Butcher’s Arms from the brewery just down the HAIL TO THE ALE: Locals enjoy a pint at The Butcher’s Arms at Herne, the country’s first micropub at Herne, near Canterbury, the road. It’s easy to source and the country’s first micropub. lack of road miles helps to keep Since opening in 2005, it has the price of the ale low. bagged several awards from the Thanet is flush with these Campaign for Real Ale (Camra). new-style inns and already Mr Hillier said: “I thought of WATERING HOLE: The Black houses the Four Candles Ale- the concept; real ale, no music, house in Broadstairs, the Bake Dog in Whitstable is opening in no mobile phones, no TV, no la- the coming months and Ale House in Westgate-on- www.mercurehytheimperial.co.uk ger or spirits. Sea and the part bookshop/part Tel.01303 267441 “The micropub model is a drinking hole now known as growing revolution in the pub The Chapel in Broadstairs. world as overheads are low and …but what of Julian Dungey, chairman of it is possible to make a profit and the Thanet branch of Camra, the big boys? hence a reasonable living. has his own theories on why “My concept – to convert micropubs are thriving in the empty shops into small pubs – is Faversham brewer county. possible because of the change Shepherd Neame, which He said: “It’s the fairly low in the licensing laws in 2005, owns more than 300 start-up and running costs: which saw a shake-up in the establishments across overheads are kept to a mini- rules over the sale of alcohol. the UK, does not believe mum, they employ very few “Pubs are closing these days there will be a detrimen- staff, there are reduced opening because of high rents and long tal impact from the hours, no expensive entertain- hours. The premises are often micropub movement. ment or gambling licences, and too large and worth more as a Sales and marketing low rents as they are found house than a pub.” director Graeme Craig mainly in former shops. Mr Hillier, who is also leader said: “We welcome “Micropubs have cornered a of the Micropubs Association anything that broadens market in providing a service which supports those opening the audience for good people actually want rather than up such establishments, firmly quality beer. the big pubs telling customers believes the model he started will “We enjoyed working what they think they want.” continue to grow in the future. with some of Kent’s And there is likely to be one He said: “In 2009, I was asked microbreweries for the near you soon. Over the coming to do a presentation at Camra’s Green Hop Beer fortnight months there will be new mi- AGM on micropubs. From that in 2012, and look forward cropubs in Whitstable, Tanker- presentation others have been to participating in the ton, Birchington, Ramsgate, inspired to open similar pubs in project again this year.” Margate, Welling and Wye. the UK. Mr Dungey added: “Microp- “Currently there are 16 open, ubs are the future and we ap- Romance is in the air of which seven are in Kent, and there are seven pear to have come full circle. more to follow in the county by Easter.” “In the past landlords would open up their Ready for Romance Package Valentines Menu Food is generally shunned, but some do serve front parlour for the consumption of beers they 1 night stay, dinner, bed & breakfast inc. Non-resident, 3-course menu, with local cheeses or pork pies as an aperitif to their had brewed themselves for the locals. People a bottle of Prosecco and box of welcome drink and chocolate gift just £29 ales. seem to have tired of the brash noisy pub and chocolates on arrival from £139 for two. per person. He added: “The art of conversation has re- prefer the safe quiet atmosphere the micropub Call 01303 267441 to book or email [email protected] turned to my pub. Complete strangers actually provides.” Available between 8th - 17th February 2013 talk to each other while enjoying a pint of ■ For more information visit www.micropub- Mercure Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa, Princes Parade, Hythe, Kent, CT21 6AE www.mercurehytheimperial.co.uk real ale in top condition.” association.co.uk. 6I week ending January 27, 2013 www.kentnews.co.uk MASSIVE ALL PRICES INCLUDE SALE NOW ON CONSTRUCTION BIG SAVINGS ON EVERY CABIN ALAMOSA 5m x 4m ELDORADO 5m x 5m FREE PACKAGE UPGRADE E S FREE ROOF V 0 £A A 0 1V INSULATION S 3 0 1 0E £ 0 PAVILION 5.5m x 4m NEW METRO 5m x 3.5m FREE LAMINATE FLOORING E S FREE HOME SITE V £A A 00 1V VISITS S 7 20E £ 0 HEMPSTEAD 4m x 3m HOMESTEAD 8.4m x 4.1m FREE INSTANT QUOTATIONS E S FREE BESPOKE V £50A0VE SERVICE SA£1400 FREE WARRANTY Come and see our new ALL INCLUSIVE PLEASE PACKAGE DEALS on log cabins at CALL FOR OUR NEW • NO HIDDEN EXTRASall packages include vat, delivery, installation, roof coverings, fixings, door & window furniture 2013 • SUPERIOR QUALITY COMPONENTSthicker walls, roof & floor boards, premium quality windows & doors BROCHURE • FREE SITE SURVEYS & ESTIMATES- from our friendly, experienced staff • NO PRESSURE SELLING- we don't need to, our product sells itself • FULL BACK UP SERVICE- unparalleled warranty & after service • MADE TO MEASURE SERVICE AVAILABLE- we can fully design, manufacture and build your log cabin to your pecifications available with...internal rooms/laminate flooring/double glazing/insulation/electrics/climate control Call us for a free colour brochure 0845 45 99 444 or a no obligation quotation on Johnsons Nursery Polhill Garden Centre Notcutts Garden Centre Old Thanet Way, Outside Display Area Outside Display Area near McDonalds, Chestfield, London Road, Halstead, Newham Court Village Whitstable CT5 3JD Sevenoaks TN14 7AD Maidstone ME14 5LH 01227 793717 01959 533466 01622 730777 www.johnsonsgardenbuildings.co.uk www.kentnews.co.uk KMI week ending January 27, 2013 I 7 News for more pictures and news go to www.kentnews.co.uk HEALTH Motorcyclist is NHS funds project to help ex-service killed in crash personnel cope with trauma of war A 20-year-old motorcyclist was killed on Thursday after a crash on the Ashford-bound carriageway of the A2042 Romney Marsh Road. By Marijke Cox STRESS OF BEING TRAINED TO KILL It is believed he came off his [email protected] bike at around 10.10am. Any witnesses should call 101. MENTALLY traumatised ex-soldiers Shocking figures released by Kent blaming the stress of the job, death trying to adjust to civilian life are to be Police and the Soldiers, Sailors, of comrades and difficulty in given extra support to help them cope Airmen and Families Association adjusting back to real life. with the horrors they experienced dur- (SSAFA) in 2010, showed the A Kent spokesman said: “The job MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE ing their time on the frontline. alarming number of ex-military is highly stressful and challenging. or ACCIDENT CLAIM? Research shows that combat veter- being arrested in the county. “We’re training ordinary human ans aged 24 and under are two to three Over a three-month period some beings to kill people. times more likely to commit suicide 232 former and current servicemen “They’re also seeing their friends Girlings Personal Injury Claims Ltdis a than non-military people. were arrested. killed. It’s very hard to adjust back to Ex-military personnel also have high- SSAFA defended the high figure real life after this.” Canterbury-based company specialising in accidents at work, er rates of alcohol misuse than the gen- medical negligence,head injuries and car/motorcycle accidents. eral population, with alcohol believed to be used as a coping mechanism for the battlefield during their careers. The project will educate mental post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety “When they leave the Army, they health professionals in the military way or depression. But despite this, evidence can feel alone, find employment difficult of thinking, culture and language so suggests these people often fail to seek and might relive some of their experi- they understand what ex-soldiers may help due to the stigma surrounding ences which further isolates them. They have experienced. They can then adapt mental health in the military. might turn to alcohol to help them cope their support. Therapies proved to help NHS Kent and Medway is investing and mask mental health problems. treat complex and multiple trauma will £150,000 over the next three years in a “We recognise the need for mental also be made available. project to support people who have left health support for ex-service personnel, “This will increase awareness among or are leaving the Armed Forces, and which is why we have announced this GPs and mental health professionals help them with the mental health care investment. The need for help will rise about the difficulties veterans face,” said they may need when adjusting to life following the withdrawal of troops from Dr Bob Bowes, clinical chair for West back on civvy street. Afghanistan and 20,000 redundancies Kent Clinical Commissioning Group. Lauretta Kavanagh, lead commis- in the defence review, of which a A Veterans’ Mental Health Network sioner for mental health for NHS Kent number will be in Kent and Medway.” is being set up to ensure the most appro- and Medway, said: “Many military per- There are some 130,000 ex-service priate services are available for those sonnel have experienced the horror of personnel living in the county. who need them. NOTHING TO PAY US AT ANY STAGE 8 I week ending January 27, 2013 KMI www.kentnews.co.uk News for more pictures and news go to www.kentnews.co.uk CRIME ‘Sickening’ arsonist targeted hospitals to fund drugs habit By Chris Britcher [email protected] A CRUEL crook who set fire to two Kent hospi- CAUGHT ON tals, forcing cancer patients who were receiving CAMERA: treatment to evacuate the premises and causing CCTV thousands of pounds of damage, has been sen- footage tenced to eight years behind bars. shows Thomas Ashcroft, 35, of no fixed abode, was Ashcroft arrested following a series of arson attacks on in Medway hospitals, hotels and public places during July Maritime and August of last year. Hospital On his sentencing, police chiefs said his crimes were “sickening” and that it was a miracle no- between £10,000 and £15,000 worth of dam- Rotherham and Brighton – all of which used the one was seriously hurt or even killed as a result age was caused. same method of fire to distract as he stole cash or of his actions. Just a day later, Ashcroft targeted the hospital property. Ashcroft lit the fires in a bid to distract employ- in Canterbury and again started a fire in a cup- Overseeing the investigation was Detective In- ees so he could steal cash. board. During the evacuation of the hospital he spector Lee Whitehead. He said: “Ashcroft put He targeted two Kent hospitals – Medway stole £25 from the hospital café. In this instance the lives of hundreds of people in danger to steal Maritime in Gillingham and the Kent and Can- £70,000 of damage was caused. money to finance his drug habit. terbury – forcing the building to be evacuated, Ashcroft was arrested after contacting Kent “His actions were entirely selfish. To force and disrupting the treatment of patients. Police from a telephone box in Ramsgate and cancer patients to abandon their treatment is Ashcroft was caught on CCTV at Medway handing himself in regarding a separate matter. nothing short of sickening and Ashcroft should Maritime on August 29, where he started a fire After his arrest, officers from the Kent and be ashamed for causing stress and anxiety to in a store cupboard. Essex Serious Crime Directorate launched an those who are fighting serious illness. Prompt action by Kent Fire and Rescue Serv- investigation. “It is testament to the staff at the various es- ice (KFRS) resulted in the blaze being extin- Enquiries linked him to three offences in Kent tablishments and the prompt reactions of the fire guished quickly and no-one was injured in and subsequently to a string of offences across service that nobody was hurt, seriously injured the incident. However, it is estimated that the country, including crimes in Manchester, or killed.” ABBEY COURT SCHOOL teaches pupils with Severe, and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties between the ages of 3 and 19. The school is based on 2 sites in Rainham (Nursery and Primary, and Strood (Secondary and Further Education) • SCHOOL VIDEO Are you currently working as a Supply An insight into who we are. Teacher? • ALL ABOUT US A tour of the school and presentation. Have you thought of widening your experience working with Special Educational Needs pupils? • DIFFERENTIATED CURRICULUM A presentation on how our teaching and Would you like to find out more? learn-ing is differentiated to meet the special needs of our pupils. Why not come along to our Taster morning and discover more about working in a special school…… • WHAT NEXT ? Questions and answers. Tuesday 5th February 9.30am to 1pm This school is committed to safeguarding Abbey Court School, Long Catlis Road, Rainham, Kent and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and ME8 9TX volunteers to share this commitment. Any To reserve a free place, telephone the school on offer of appointment for post is subject to a satisfactory Criminal Records Bureau 01634 338220, or e-mail Disclosure. [email protected] www.kentnews.co.uk week ending January 27, 2013 I 9 10I week ending January 27, 2013 www.kentnews.co.uk