Princes Park Conservatives

Sure Start

2011-04-03T16:38:00.002+01:00

I am very late in catching up with the 'Blog'. This picture was taken weeks ago. Matt and I presented a cheque, for £500 out of ward funds, to Sure Start for their booklets aimed at encouraging new mums to breast feed. Also there was money to help towards some high chairs. We also presented cheques to Kingfisher School for improvement to the school library.(£736) There was also yet another for £500 towards the school allotments. I had enough sense not to have any more photos taken. One with me in is enough. All these projects are so worth while as they help children from o-11. It is so important to give children the best start in life. That is both in health and education. posted by Pat

Path Resurfacing

2011-03-18T09:44:00.004Z

We have been very lucky in Princes Park to have many of our roads resurfaced. But we must not forget those who use our paths. Some of them were getting in a bad way. We had calls from both young mums who had problems pushing buggies to people on mobility scooters.

Medway Council have not managed to solve all our problems yet but it is coming. The people who live in the areas already done are very, very pleased. I think the users of Princes Ave will be as well once the work there is finished. I am particularly pleased with that as a few mobility scooter users said that, that section of Princes Ave made it very difficult to get down to the village.

I do realise that there has been some disruptions with the roads. I am sure everyone appreciates it will be worth it. I would like to thank all the road users for their co-operation during this time.

posted by Pat

Council Budget

2011-02-26T12:11:00.004Z

At Full Council last Thursday myself and Pat Gulvin voted with our colleagues for the budget for the next financial year.

Due to a multi-million pound reduction in the Medway Council budget the books were balanced (due to re-structuring with minimal job losses & a better for less campaign) and some fantastic schemes will be introduced which will help the residents of Princes Park and Medway.

Free swimming will be introduced for the under 11s and over 60s.

£250,000 for pot hole repairs

£500,000 for highway repairs

£75,000 for adult play schemes

£50,000 for alloment improvements

Sure Start has been declared safe including the one at Kingfisher School

£92,000 for extra library books

£100,000 for apprenticeship schemes

£250,000 allocated for the introduction of a freedom pass

Ridgemeadow site re-instated for use by Bradfields School and a special autism unit

Front Line services are protected

Parking charges frozen

And of course...not to forget this is all being done with the Council Tax being frozen for another year!

With other Councils cutting Front Line services this budget should be a positve one for everyone in Princes Park.

posted by matt bright

The Motorbike Fight Continues

2011-02-26T12:01:00.002Z

These may look like boring barriers to some people but for the residents of Ryde Close & Solent Gardens it will enable them to use their gardens safely with their children being able to play on the grass opposite.

These barriers came at the request of residents who we met whilst on one of our 'Meet & Greet' sessions with local people from Princes Park.

Residents expressed a concern on the footpath being used by mini-motorbikes (our big enemy - check older posts) so we felt something had to be done.

Due to our hard-line stance on any anti-social behavour in the area we managed to secure the funding through our ward funds and they were installed last week.

Hopefully this will make it safer from everyone.

Do you live in Princes Park and know of a problem area for mini-motorbikes? If so please contact us.

posted by matt bright.

Sure Start

2011-02-13T11:59:00.003Z

I have had a few queries from residents about SureStarts future, so I thought I best put my reply in writing on the Blog.

I think SureStart is a fantastic thing. It is there for the Community in the Community . I have seen first hand some of the inspiration and enthusiasm of those who work there. The real value to the children may not be seen for a while, but as the children grow up the good ground work that was done will pay off.

I believe many parents have also had their lives altered by SureStart. They can see they are not alone, there are people who are always willing to help.

As you can see I am a real advocate of SureStart as is Matt. So I pleased that at the last Council meeting it was agreed the funding will continue for the forth coming year. This was stated in the press but some people must have missed it.

I hope this puts people in Princes Park minds at rest.

SURESTART is safe .

posted by Pat

Ball Park

2011-01-06T15:25:00.002Z

These two happy chaps helped to make the opening of the Ball Park so successful. They are David Hughes and Brian Mooney of the Safety Community Team. They worked tirelessly to clean up the mud that the foul weather had dumped on the pathways.
Brian had spent hours the day before cleaning up the litter that had been dumped.
Also Pauline Harman came along with her hose to help clean up as much as she could.
I want to publicly say a big big thank you to them for the work they did yesterday.Also for all the work they have done behind the scenes to improve the quality of life for the residents of Princes park.
posted by Pat

Ball Park in Princes Park

2011-01-05T16:39:00.004Z

Today we celebrated the long awaited opening of the ball park. It has been a long time coming. Matt and I were beginning to think it would never happen.

The Mayor Cllr David Brake came along and did the honours for us, we also had along our local MP Tracey Crouch.

The most important guests were the children from Kingfisher School. As you can see from the pictures they were really happy to be there. It was really cold but it did not stop them asking if they could have a game of football.

I hope they will have many happy days playing safely there. Much better than playing in the streets and getting moaned at all the time for damaging peoples cars.

posted by Pat

Benefit from some good advice

2010-12-31T08:39:00.004Z

A campaign to ensure that residents in Medway receive the financial support they are entitled to starts in January.

The campaign will run from 17 January until 11 February with advice desks at various places throughout Medway, including the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham, where staff from Medway Revenues and Benefits Service and The Welfare Benefits Unit assisted by the Pension Service, The Kent Benefits Partnership and Voluntary Organisations will be able to tell people whether they qualify for housing, council tax, work, pension or care benefits.

Earlier this year, a similar campaign helped people collect more than £261,000 in unclaimed benefits.

Take advantage of the help and advice available to ensure that you are not missing out on money.

If you've never claimed benefits or have been turned down in the past, or maybe you are thinking of returning to work but are wondering if you will cope- this message is that you have nothing to lose but potentially money to gain.

For more details:

Come and talk to us at one of the events listed below or find out more at www.medway.gov.uk/benefits

OR

email: welfare.benefits@medway.gov.uk

OR

phone: 332222

Don't delay - Benefit from some good advice!

posted by Pat

Ballpark Update

2010-12-10T14:09:00.003Z

As you can see the park is almost ready. We were told that it could be ready by the beginning of December. To think how bad the weather has been I think they have done well to get this far.

If you remember they had nothing but rain when they were trying to dig out the bank, then the SNOW.

So we will soon be seeing the young people of Princes Park enjoying it.

Posted by Pat

Chidren In Need

2010-11-21T14:20:00.010Z

I was luck enough to go along to Christ Church,Luton on Friday morning. Home Start were running a fund raising for Children in Need.

Home Start have been very lucky to have funding from Children in Need. This fun morning was there way of raising money to help payback the generosity of all the people who have given to Children in Need. As you can see as well as mums and children they were joined by many interesting people, including the Gillingham mascot who really joined in the fun. The children absolutely loved him.

Posted by Pat

Come on Gillingham

2010-11-20T21:26:00.002Z

Well done Gillingham. Now you have broken your duck start believing in yourself. The whole of Medway will then be behind you.

posted by Pat

Remembrance Day

2010-11-14T14:19:00.003Z

I was very proud to accompany Tracey to her official Remembrance Day Parade in Chatham.
We started at Victoria Gardens for the Parade, Service and Wreath laying. It was very moving. It was so lovely to see so many young people there. From five year old upwards. The fact they stood there in the wet was amazing. Talking to Officers from HMS Chatham, afterwards, they were really impressed. They said they have never seen such a large turn out of youngsters. They must of made their parents and their organisation really proud.
From Victoria Gardens we walked down to Chatham High Street for the Salute.
I think it was one of ,if not the proudest moment of Tracey's time since she became Chathams MP. It was worth getting wet.
I hope the children, young people got as much out of the day as we did. The crowd at the Gardens is thought to be between 700 and 1,000. A wonderful turn out for a wet day.
posted by Pat

Wounded for Princes Park

2010-11-06T21:33:00.004Z

I think there is a conspiracy in Princes Park at the moment. Last week out delivering leaflets I had my spatula taken by a dog. This time the bolt on a gate tried to remove half my finger. When I became a Councillor no one warned me that I would need protection.

Sorry to disappoint the Labour Group I have been told its not fatal and I will live to fight the next election.

posted by Pat

Missing Spatula

2010-10-30T18:51:00.002+01:00

Missing one spatula

If you live in Wiltshire Close and you have found a spatula on your door mat never fear. You have not been invaded by phantom spatula deliveries. What happened I was delivering leaflets using a spatula to push them through the letter box, this saves my fingers being attacked by evil letterboxes. When a big dog, well it looked big to me, took the leaflet and my spatula out of my hand. The last I saw was the dog guarding the spatula which it had dropped on the door mat. Oh well look on the bright side it could have been my hand.

posted by Pat

Chaham football

2010-10-30T18:37:00.002+01:00

Tracey and I had a lovely Saturday,last week, watching Chatham playing at home. I think Tracey bought them a bit of luck as the match was a draw. This after all was against the league leaders.

But seriously they could have so easily have won. Just don't give away a penalty.

I would like to thank everyone for making us so welcome. Hope we can get along a support them again soon.

posted by Pat

Ball Park Update

2010-10-16T18:28:00.003+01:00

I might look a bit windblown, but it was lovely to go up on the bank to see the progress with the ballpark. For so long Matt and I thought it was just a dream that we could possible get a ballpark for Princes Park. The proof is now there.

While we were up there we meet two nice young boys. They really could not wait for it to be finished. As they said to us if they play ball in the street, the only flat area to play, they get told off.

Everyone complains that children are getting fat. I know that is not very PC, but facts are facts, that is what people mean. It can only be expected if they are shut indoors all day as there is no where safe to play.

I am old enough to remember playing in the street because there were very few cars. Now its not possible. We used to play rounders and football against the dads. I hope when the ball park is finished we see a few dads up there challenging the kids.

posted by Pat

Age Concern

2010-10-14T03:07:00.002+01:00

The new Hopewell Centre for Age Concern has now been officially open by the Mayor of Medway, Cllr David Brake. We are very lucky to have this facility on our doorsteps, in Hopewell Drive.

So if you get the chance go along and see it for yourself do pop in. They will be happy to see you.

Posted by Pat

SSAFA Big Brew UP

2010-10-03T19:43:00.002+01:00

The SSAFA Big Brew up has come round again. The year since the last one seems to have flown by.

The Big Brew up is at the Church of Christ the King ( next to Morrisons). It is being held on the 16th October from 10am to noon.
So come along and help the Armed Forces Charity. They are celebrating their 125 birthday so there really is something to celebrate.
posted by Pat

Yet Another Litter Bin

2010-09-29T19:39:00.003+01:00

I know it does look boring, but this is another step towards a cleaner Princes Park. This is just one of the two litter bins that have been put at the top of Wren Way. It has become a bit of a black spot for litter. Matt has been chasing up the street cleaning team to do there more often. But at the end of the day it is the people who drop the litter who are the problem. Now there are two bins they have no excuse.

Litter is unsightly and costs us all money to have it cleared up. I know I have been harping on about this for years, but Princes Park is a nice place to live and there are really nice people living here. It is spoilt by just a few very selfish people.

Years ago Princes Park had a bad reputation but the residents have turned it around. Not the Council, Police or any other organisation just the residents. They wanted to live in a nice area and they have made it so. All we need to do now is stop, just the few, who ruin it for the rest of us.
Posted by ranting Pat of Princes Park

Monday 27th September

2010-09-14T18:13:00.004+01:00

If you have not already met up with Matt and Sue come and meet them on the 27th September. They will be hovering with me outside Morrisons.
We have been out there a few times, since they became our neighbourhood police team,. These have always been very successful. We will be there at 10-11:30 subject to any emergency they could be called away on.
posted by Pat

Breakthrough Breast Cancer

2010-09-14T08:23:00.001+01:00

This flyer is for a concert at the Central Theatre. These lads are doing this to raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer. You may have seen in the press that this charities name was illegally used to collect clothes from households. This has lost this Charity and many others a lot of money they can ill afford. One of the lads lives in Princes Park so it would be nice for as many people as possible to go and support them.
So ladies and gentlemen,boys and girls get along to the box office and make it a huge success.
posted by Pat

Princes Av

2010-09-06T19:42:00.002+01:00

It may only be a picture of a road,but I think most residents of Princes Park will be very pleased to see it. The road after our really bad winter was in a bad way. But even with the cut backs we have manged to secure a nice new road surface.
Posted by Pat

AT LAST

2010-08-25T22:15:00.002+01:00

I am happy to say that I am enjoying a glass of wine. It is to celebrate. The residents in Princes Park have been asking for somewhere for the young people of the area to play. Well- tonight the council planning committee passed our application for a ballpark. It has been a long time coming and I know the youngster were beginning to think it never would. In fact I was beginning to wonder as well. But it looks like their patience has paid off.
Posted by Pat
a very tired but happy councillor

Walking To School

2010-08-16T05:12:00.002+01:00

I was looking through the older blogs and I spotted this picture. It went with an article about children walking to school.
Last week the Daily Express ran an article about the same subject. They were quoting scientist saying children are less liking to suffer from ill health if they walk more. A good walk everyday to school will do the trick. This would also solve one of the biggest problems parking. There is no resident living near our schools that do not complain about the parking. Residents are unable to get access to their own property due to parents parking.
I know some parents do have to come some distance to travel. They can still park safely and the children can have a short walk. Those parents who's children go to Maudene can park in Morrisons. It is not far but it will be some exercise for the children. I am sure there are places near Kingfisher at school where parking is safe and not too far for the children to walk.
We all like to spoil our children,but sometimes it is not the best thing for them.
posted by Pat

Catching Up

2010-06-13T19:08:00.002+01:00

It seems to have been a very busy week. But I thought I should try again to catch up with the blog.
The major thing this week is Tracey Crouch's maiden speech in the House of Commons. if you log on to her site you can find out all about it. It is really good that she made the House realise that not everyone in the South East is rich. She spoke about the deprivation in some areas of Chatham. These do need to be looked into and I know Tracey is eager to see that those ares are not forgotten.
Matt and I went to a meeting with business people, police, neighbourhood watch and the local church. We were descussing the needs of the area. We used to have a very good PACT in Princes Park but it ended up folding last year. So the new neighbourhood police team ( Mat and Sue) got a few people together to see if it can be reformed. As well as Mat and Sue we were pleased to meet the new Inspector in charge of neighbourhood policeing. His name is Insp. Cherry. Some of the older residents of Princes Park may remember him. He used to be our local neighbourhood policeman about 20 years ago.
On Friday I spent most of the day in Maidstone. I went to County Hall with a council colleague Cllr Avey. We are both on the Health and Adult Services Commitee. K.C.C. were having a Health meeting. The first part of it was about Mental Health. Kent and Medway work together on this so Cllr Avey and I agreed that it was important to find out as much as we could. That way when we have a meeting in Medway with the NHS we already know what response they received in Kent.
Sunday ( yes today) was the dedication services at the Cathedral. It was lovely to see so many Mayors from over areas coming to Rochester for the occasion. It was nice the sun came out as we have a procession through Rochester from the Guildhall to the Cathedral. I think the tourist found it very interesting. Some of the Mayors I had meet last week. I was very lucky to be asked by our Deputy Mayor Cllr Hewitt to be his escort for the day last Saturday. The Deputy Mayoress was unable to accompany him that day.So we went to Tunbridge Wells to be their guest at the cricket. I was spoilt as I love cricket. It was nice meeting leaders of councils from different parts of Kent. It was interesting to see and hear different points of view about problems around the Kent.
posted by Pat

New Police Team

2010-05-19T12:24:00.003+01:00

Now the election is over it is time to try and get the blog up to date. The photo is of our two new Neighbourhood Police team. We now have PC Mathew Booth and PCSO Susan Kemsly. Many of you may have already met them. Those who have will I am sure feel we are in safe hands.

Pc Dave Saunders is still in Medway, but I believe he is now with a special task group. So we may still bump into him. Pcso Jess Read is now in the police force, well now in training. I know all who knew her will wish her all the best. I am sure she will make a great PC. Nic Simmonds is still a PCSO but has been moved to another job. Nic was not with us for long but she was sadly missed when she went as she made a big impact on all who met her in Princes Park.

We have also had some other changes to our small community. The vicar, at Christ the King, Keith Foot retired and has moved away to Tunbridge Wells. He was given a really lovely send off. We all wish him and Jenny and long and happy retirement.

That is not the end of it. Mrs Priest, the very popular head at Kingfisher school, has also decided she is going to retire. She does not go until January but she will be a hard act to follow.

Posted by Pat

More canvassing

2010-04-17T19:09:00.003+01:00

Yet more canvassing today. This is just one of many groups that have been around Chatham and Aylesford canvassing for Tracey. Matt was with another group that we met up with later in the day. I think by the time the election is over we should be super fit. I know at the moment I do not feel it. At the moment like many others it is sore feet and aching back. If you want to save money on the gym come and join us.

Posted by a very tired Pat

Canvassing in Princes park

2010-04-16T19:40:00.002+01:00

Today we were out canvassing in Princes Park. We were very lucky to be joined by Michael Howard and his wife Sandra. He has been a politician for a very long time, but he is now retiring. I think he will be greatly missed. We have been very lucky in the people who have been to our area to support Tracey.

posted by Pat

More litter picking

2010-04-13T16:42:00.002+01:00

When I was driving up Swallow Rise I noticed two of my neighbours litter picking. I did know, as I have mentioned before, that some residents do go out and tidy up. Today I caught two of them.

These are just two of our local residents who take pride in the area. How about we all follow their good example. As I have said many times if we all looked after the area where we lived and also took our litter home we could turn Princes Park into a neighbourhood to be proud of.
posted by Pat

Litter Pick

2010-04-01T13:48:00.003+01:00

Some residents complained of a camp that had been erected in the tree area. It was the rubbish that was left behind that was the biggest complaint. Brian (Safety Community Officer) dismantled the camp. Them Adrian,my husband, and I went along to help pick the rubbish up. as you can see it was more than a dozen sack fulls. In the photo you can see Brian and me, Adrian is taking the photo. well someone has to.

Posted by Pat

Age Concern is coming to Princes Park

2010-02-01T17:03:00.002Z

Age Concern
Age Concern will be relocating from its Chatham premises ( where it has been since 1969) to its new premises in Hopewell Drive, Princes Park from March 2010.
The new facilities will be much larger therefore able to cater for more residents from the wider community.
Cathy Steinmann (Chief Officer for Age Concern) contacted Cllr Matt Bright in the early part of January asking if there was any local funding that could help with new equipment. Luckily Matt and I still had some ward funds available and a cheque of over £2,000 was presented to Cathy at their existing premises.

The money will be used to purchase new tables, chairs, dementia signs, toilet facilities and many more worthwhile items.
posted by Pat

Working with the PCSOs

2009-11-23T09:57:00.002Z

I had a very interesting and rewarding evening on Wednesday. I joined the local PCSOs, Jessica Read and Nicola Simmons, at Morrisons. We were doing a survey of the problems residents feel we have in the neighbourhood. It was a surprise to find that most had little or no problems. What was most rewarding was that they all said that they liked living here. One young man said he had moved from a Kent village and had been really nervous of moving here. But he has been a resident now for a couple of years and is really happy.

The problems that did come out were what I think you would all imagine. Litter, and nuisance motorbikes. The graffiti problem is not quite so bad. It has not gone away, in fact I have been out lately cleaning it off. The really large areas are still being reported and the graffiti busting team at the council are doing a good job. Even though there are improvements in the area the only way to keep improving is for us to know what problems people are having. So please let the police or Matt and I know. We cannot work miracles but we can try and help.

Our two PCSOs are really nice and very hard working girls. So when you see them please say hello. Most local children know them as they pop into the schools and introduce themselves. They have helped raise money for Sure Start at Kingfisher School, so you see they are very much part of our community.
If you need to contact the PCSOs there is a link on the blog.
posted by Pat

November 2009 Surgery

2009-11-06T15:23:00.004Z

It is the Princes Park surgery tomorrow (7th November).

Cllr Pat Gulvin will be your host and she will be available between 10-11am.

The surgery is in the usual venue: Christ the King Church, Dove Close.

No appointment is necessary, if you have a local issue you need to discuss, just turn up!.

posted by matt bright.

Brendon Avenue Re-surfacing

2009-11-06T14:54:00.003Z

Letters have been sent to local residents of Brendon Avenue informing them that the road is due to be re-surfaced.

The details are as follows;

Work will commence on Friday 13th November.
Works are programmed to be completed within 2 working days.
The road will be closed between 9-30am to 3-30pm.
On street parking will be restricted during the working hours.

posted by matt bright

Planning Applications

2009-11-06T14:43:00.006Z

Here are the latest planning applications for the Princes Park Area.

posted by matt bright

Housing Advice Drop In

2009-11-04T17:23:00.004Z

Housing Advice Drop in at the Sunlight Centre, Richmond Road, Gillingham.

Are you privately renting or a home owner?

The team from Private Sector Housing are coming to The Sunlight Centre, Richmond Road, Gillingham for two days to help answer any question and offer advice.

On 24th and 26th November 2009 - 9am - 4pm

Council staff will be available to give advice and information on the following subjects:

Financial assistance for housing repairs for home owners

Advice and assistance for tenants of privately rented accommodation

Energy Efficiency in the home

If you are unable to attend but would still like some advice please contact Private Sector Housing Team on 01634 333066 (Maggie White)
.

posted by Pat

Ridge Meadow School

2009-09-16T17:55:00.003+01:00

Ridge Meadow school has been proposed to be closed, the decision will be made by the Cabinet on Thursday 17th September.

The reason for this proposal is the surplus spaces (and future predicted surplus spaces) within the school and therefore (the argument) is the school is un-viable.

A consultation period was introduced and the results of that consultation have now been produced to Councillors. During that time Cllr Pat Gulvin and I had a meeting with the head teacher and the school governors and was treated to a guided tour of the school and the facilities.

Also, residents in the local area signed a petition card (above) asking for this school and 2 others to remain open.

Now that the consultation period is over, reviewing the evidence, peoples opposition and looking at the schools facilities and the potential facilities we (Cllr Matt Bright & Cllr Pat Gulvin along with Luton & Wayfield Cllr Tashi Bhutia) believe Ridge Meadow should not close and should remain open. There are other alternatives within the Wayfield area to deal with the surplus spaces and closing Ridge Meadow should not be one of them.

Due to the strength of our opposition we sent letters out (above) to all of the residents that had taken the time to sign the petition card.

We are not Cabinet members, so we do not get to vote on this issue, but we have and will continue to urge Cabinet members to keep Ridge Meadow school open.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Application

2009-09-10T15:29:00.002+01:00

Here is the latest planning application involving a property in Princes Park.

Hopewell Drive

posted by matt bright.

Our Battle

2009-09-10T15:03:00.004+01:00

Our Battle Against the Motorbikes
.

These are the latest barriers to be installed (along Highgrove Road) to prevent the unruly motorbike. On all three sites there remained 2 barriers that were previously installed before we were elected. However, only having 2 barriers did little or nothing to stop motorbikes going through at speed. So we have added a third barrier to all 3 sites to try and prevent the problem.

We will probably never stop the motorbike completely because they can simply de-mount the bike and walk it through but it will harm their enjoyment and hopefully they will go elsewhere.

The barriers have to be a certain width apart from each other to allow push bikes, push chairs and disabled access.
If you know of any other part of Princes Park that could benefit from such an installation please contact us.

posted by matt bright.

September 2009 Surgery

2009-09-10T14:58:00.003+01:00

Thank you to the 2 residents who expressed a local concern when they visited the surgery last Saturday.

Both local issues are currently being dealt with and should be completed in the next couple of days.

If you are a resident of Princes Park and you have a local issue you can visit the surgery or get in contact by email of phone to either Cllr Pat Gulvin or myself.

posted by matt bright,

Luton & Wayfield Results

2009-09-10T14:31:00.005+01:00

Here are the final results of the Luton & Wayfield by-election last Thursday;

Conservatives - 1042 (Tashi Bhutia elected)
.
Labour - 1038
.
Lib Dems - 223
.
UKIP - 200
BNP - 186
Independent - 87
Greens - 51
.
The turn out was 29.78%.
.
posted by matt bright.

The Hero of the Day

2009-09-04T12:24:00.002+01:00

Matt and I with many Conservatives were out in force yesterday. We were doing the final work to get Tashi Bhutia as our new councillor for Luton and Wayfield. We had a nail biting finish. We had three re-counts and Tashi won by 4 votes.

This was a fantastic win for the Conservatives as Luton and Wayfield was one of the five safest seats in Kent. There was a swing of over 11%.

We would like to welcome Tashi to the council and I know that Luton and Wayfield will have a very hard working councillor.

posted by Pat

New Surface for Popular Footpath

2009-08-16T18:08:00.010+01:00

New Footpath From Heron Way to Kingfisher School Via Kingfisher Road

A few months ago myself and Cllr Pat Gulvin were meeting with residents in Ryde Close and we were discussing local issues that affected them and what could be improved.

One main concern kept being repeated, and that was the state of the footpath that runs from Heron Way down to Kingfisher Road through the Heron Banks.

This was officially a footpath but didn't have a decent surface, the surface was in fact chalk and mud which had been created by all the pedestrian traffic over the years.
This clearly was not acceptable as this path was used by many parents taking their young children to school (some with push chairs) from the Ryde Close area down to Kingfisher School.

After speaking with residents, the first thing we done was to contact the Highways Department within the council and try to get a resolution.

Due to the path already being designated an official footpath this made it easier to secure the necessary funding and the job started in July.
I'm sure this will be a welcome addition to the residents who take this route when the schools re-open in September.

Another job completed by your local Conservative Councillors, we listened to residents concerns and two months later the job has been completed!

posted by matt bright.

New Barrier

2009-08-16T17:45:00.004+01:00

Here is the latest addition in our war against the motorbikes in Princes Park. It may look like an ordinary boring barrier but for the residents of Scarlett Close and the surrounding areas it has hopefully added to the misery of the local motorbike culture using the footpaths and alleyways to cut through at their will.

Residents were having problems with youths using the path from Scarlett Close onto the path adjoining North Dane Way.

Although there were already two barriers installed it didn't actually stop the speeding bikes, hopefully this third edition will stop the problem.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Application

2009-08-16T17:32:00.003+01:00

Here is the latest planning application for the Princes Park ward..
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Chaffinch Close
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posted by matt bright.

Save Capstone Valley Campaign - Update

2009-08-06T11:36:00.004+01:00

A few weeks ago cards were sent to our residents in Princes Park and surrounding areas asking people if they opposed the development of Capstone Valley. If they did oppose the destruction of one of the best green spaces in the area then they could sign the card provided and send it into the office.

The response was overwhelming, as you can see from the photos we managed to fill up a wheelbarrow full of replies.

This is yet another clear message to the developers we want the area to remain UNTOUCHED!!

I am glad to see other political parties are agreeing with our views but it was and has been your local Conservatives who have led the campaign from the beginning to keep the greedy planners at bay.

Join us in our fight to save Capstone Valley once and for all.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Applications

2009-08-06T11:31:00.003+01:00

Here are the latest planning applications within the Princes Park ward.

Swallow Rise (Maundene School)

Chaffinch Close
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posted by matt bright.

August 2009 Surgery

2009-07-31T18:17:00.006+01:00

It's surgery time again in Princes Park on Saturday 1st August 2009.

The surgery will be held at the Christ the King church in Dove Close (opposite Morrisons).

Cllr Pat Gulvin will be there between 10-11am to help with any local issues.

No appointment is necessary.
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posted by matt bright.

Save Capstone Valley......AGAIN!!

2009-06-16T22:23:00.008+01:00

Yes, they are after Capstone Valley AGAIN.

Thanks to planning laws and rules imposed by the Labour Government, Medway Council is obliged by law to put development proposals to concrete over Capstone Valley out to 'public consultation' If they refuse to do so the developers have the right to apply for planning permission and even commence building work.

If you support our campaign to save Capstone Valley please sign and return the postcard that is on its way to all in Princes Park. It is a freepost address but if you place a stamp on the card it will save us the cost of the postage. There is room for two signatures on the card. If you would like additional cards to collect more signatures , please email your name and address to tracey@traceycrouch.co.uk and we will send you a further supply.

If you wish to help deliver the cards to your street please get in touch. We need help to save Capstone Valley. Please ring me on 01634 670853, or email Tracey.

posted by Pat

New Footpath

2009-06-13T16:24:00.006+01:00

New Footpath From Lordswood Lane To Emily Road

During the last election campaign we had several residents from the Lordswood Lane area ask if we could have the bridleway from Lordswood Lane to Emily Road re-surfaced due to the poor state of the pathway.

We said we would take the issue on as a priority to improve the walking conditions for the many pedestrians who use that path. This area had been ear-marked to be updated for over 20 years but we are pleased to say the project has now been completed.

It all started 2 years ago when we tried to get some anti-motorbike barriers installed to stop the menace, however we were informed due to the path being designated a 'bridleway' barriers could not be installed because of horse access.

Due to a horse not using this bridleway for 30 years we got the Council to apply through the courts to have the definition changed from 'bridleway' to footpath'. This took longer then we thought, hence why it has taken 2 years to get the project completed.

After the courts changed the status to a 'footpath' the finance was secured to have the entire length re-surfaced with 4 sets of barriers installed at either end, with 2 in the middle.

The path construction took over 3 weeks to complete and after taking a final look last week we were very pleased with the outcome.

Another example of how Cllrs Matt Bright and Pat Gulvin are working to try and improve Princes Park.

posted by matt bright

June Surgery 2009

2009-06-05T14:19:00.002+01:00

The Princes Park monthly surgery will be on Saturday 6th June 2009.

If you have a local issue that you would like to discuss with your local Councillors then feel free to pay us a visit, no appointment is necessary.

The surgery will be at;

Christ the King Church

Dove Close,

Princes Park

Between 10-11am.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Application

2009-06-02T17:02:00.004+01:00

Here is the latest planning application for a property in Princes Park
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Highgrove Road
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posted by matt bright.

Recession Guide

2009-05-26T17:28:00.003+01:00

Conservatives launch recession guide on new website

Help is on hand for residents wanting to know what Medway Council can do for them to beat the recession.

Medway’s Conservative Group have created an easy access guide to the Council’s services which can be found on their brand new website at www.medwayconservativegroup.co.uk/recession.php

The Beat the Recession page includes information for residents looking for help and advice on benefits and council tax and using the council’s value for money services.

The Conservative Group have also launched their top tips to save money, which are:

Join your local library where you can take out books, access the internet and rent low cost DVDs and CDs
Sign up for the half price bus pass for under 16s, which is soon to be expanded to under 18s. Over 60s who have free bus passes can travel for free under Medway’s extended service from 9am in the morning
Visit Medway’s value for money leisure centres
Attend one of the number of free events held throughout Medway including the Dickens and Fuse Festivals
Grow your own fruit and vegetables, perhaps using one of Medway’s popular allotments
Enjoy a walk around one of Medway’s countryside parks such as Riverside or Capstone Park
Save money though making your home more energy efficient. Householders in receipt of benefits can get help under the Coldbusters scheme.
The new Conservative Group website, which can be found at http://www.medwayconservativegroup.co.uk/, gives residents access to the latest news and views from their local Conservative councillors.

Deputy Leader Cllr Alan Jarrett said:

“We are taking the recession very seriously and there are several ways residents can save cash by accessing the Council’s value for money services. Medway Council also provides help and advice to those that need it. Our Beat the Recession guide on our new website http://www.medwayconservativegroup.co.uk/, is an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to know what their Conservative Medway Council can do for them.”

Kent Police in Princes Park

2009-05-26T10:40:00.004+01:00

Along with the Safer Communities Officer from Medway Council there are currently 2 PCSO's and 1 PC who also patrol and look after the needs of Princes Park.

Click here for more information.

This page directs you to the officers on the Princes Park page on the Kent Police website. There are phone numbers and email addresses if you wish to get in contact.

posted by matt bright.

Spitfire Close

2009-05-18T10:36:00.003+01:00

This area of Spitfire Close in Princes Park a few months ago was an unused piece of grassland. Due to there being no where for the local children to play we have undergone some several steps to make the area more user friendly.

1) At the end of last year large boulders were removed from the area to open up the green for children to play on.

2) In association with local residents a large community clear up was organised to clear the green and the woods to the rear.

3) A football goal was installed for the children to use but was sensitively placed so not to upset the neighbouring residents with stray footballs. This came after months of negotiating with Council officers to get the goal installed after satisfying all Health & Safety aspects.

4) By using ward funds we have managed to purchase a bench and a bin so hopefully the green will not be littered.

This is a job well done by myself and Cllr Pat Gulvin after months of dialogue. If when reading this you feel their are other parts of Princes Park that could benefit from having similar street furniture please get in touch with us.

posted by matt bright.

May Surgery 2009

2009-04-30T16:18:00.004+01:00

The next Princes Park surgery is due and will be held this Saturday (2nd May) at the usual venue.

Christ the King Church

Dove Close,

Princes Park.

Between 10-11am.

Your Councillor in attendance with be Cllr Pat Gulvin who will be able to assist with any local issues, no appointment is necessary.

posted by matt bright.

PACT Meeting

2009-04-07T12:07:00.004+01:00

A PACT meeting will be held on the 7th May 2009 from 7:30pm to 9:oopm at Kingfisher School Kingfisher Drive.

Have you got a concern what is happening in Princes Park,your neighbourhood?

Come along and let us know what you think priorities for your area should be.

Organisations attending include:

Medway Council

Local Councillors

Princes Park PACT panel

Local Schools

Kent Police

This is not for private and personal problems. This is for priorities for the neighbourhood. If you have a personal problem come along to the surgeries. They are held the first Saturday of the month at Christ the King church (near Morrison's) from 10:00am to 11am. A councillor and a member of the neighbourhood police team will be there. You can also contact as at the numbers listed below.

For further information please contact

PC Dave Saunders on 01634 792347 or Princes.Park@kent.pnn.police.uk

Cllr Pat Gulvin on 01634 670853 or pat.gulvin@medway.gov.uk

Look forward to seeing or hearing from you.

posted by Pat

Litter

2009-04-03T16:14:00.005+01:00

Brian,Safety Community officer, and I went out yesterday doing a few hours of litter picking. There is no photo this time as we did lots of small areas instead of one big area. We still managed to fill five large sacks of rubbish. Most of the areas did not need to be in the state they were. I am sorry to say we seem to have grown into and very dirty nation. What I do not understand is people look after their homes beautifully but leave litter in their gardens. I know they may not have dropped it but if everyone just picked up the rubbish in front of their own house we would live in a much nicer environment.

I know we have many residents in Princes Park who do their very best and I salute them. But can someone tell me how to get through to those who think it is perfectly alright to just drop litter where ever they think. Driving along Herons Way I saw a family walking along. It was dad who just chucked a crisp packet onto the verge. I just wonder how the children are going to grow up. It is not a very good role model. On another day I noticed in Illustrious and pile of cigarette ends. A mum while waiting to pick her child up from Maudene school had just emptied her ashtray. Very nice I don't think. How would she like us to dump stuff outside her house. So PLEASE help even if it is in a small way by taking your litter home

As I wrote before if there is anyone out there who would like to help please get in contact.

posted by Pat

April Surgery 2009

2009-04-03T12:10:00.002+01:00

The Princes Park surgery will be held again this Saturday. It will be held in the usual place at the Christ the King church in Dove Close.

I will be there between 10-11am to answer any local issues, no appointment is necessary.

posted by matt bright.

Kingfisher School 2

2009-03-27T14:26:00.003Z

This is myself, Cllr Pat Gulvin and Alison Brightman who is a member of staff for Kingfisher School. It was Alison who originally contacted me asking for a little help in some funding for the allotment idea for the school. Pat and I were only too glad to help with a contribution from ward funds of just over £900 in total in two installments. This combined with the voluntary help (as described in an earlier story) has ended up with a very good result for the school.

This just adds to other very worthwhile projects that the school produce throughout the year making it a real asset to Princes Park and the wider community.

posted by matt bright.

Kingfisher

2009-03-19T08:34:00.002Z

These two lovely letters were given to Matt and I at Kingfisher School at the opening of the allotment. It was such a a really nice thought. As I said before the children made us feel so welcome. This is the really best side of being a local councillor.

posted by Pat

Kingfisher Allotment

2009-03-18T17:37:00.004Z

Matt and I were invited along to Kingfisher school yesterday. It was for the official opening of the schools allotment. As with every occasion we were made very welcome. There is always such a lovely atmosphere there. The children sang a song for us. I am a great big softy and I find young voices so very moving.

Matt and I made a contribution to the project from our ward funds. They have been very careful with money and used recycled materials where possible. Some of the paving and bricks came from where the school had been altered when the Sure Start was introduced. The allotment is great thing for the children. They can watch the plants grow and eat the produce at the end. This will introduce them to fresh fruit and vegetable fresh from the ground. You have to admit the sweetest runner beans you can have are ones eaten straight from the plant still warm from the sun. I wish the children all success with their project and am looking forward to going along later in the year to see how they are getting on.

posted by Pat

LITTER

2009-03-12T12:41:00.003Z

Brian Mooney (Safety Community Officer) and I went litter picking this morning. We can see the difference, but there is still more to do. Brian and I have arranged to meet up once every three weeks to do this. What I am asking is for people to come and help. If we can do five large bags just imagine how much we could do with a little bit of help. So if you can spare a little time please get in contact. We will even let you choose where we go.

If you cannot make the date we have arranged I am willing to go out with a group on another day. So PLEASE help me to get Princes Park up to the standard we would like.

Posted by Pat

2009-03-12T12:31:00.001Z

Potter’s tales spring to life on Chatham stage
Magical adventures are in store for young children as Peter Rabbit and friends come to The Central Theatre in Chatham on Saturday 21 March.
Part of a major UK tour, this brand new production features a specially commissioned script based around Beatrix Potter’s classic Peter Rabbit books, and narrated by Barbara D’Alterio in the role of the famous author and illustrator. The emphasis will be firmly on fun and audience participation as a host of colourful costumed characters including Benjamin Bunny, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and Jemima Puddle-Duck take the audience through the forest to Mr. McGregor’s garden –the one place Peter was told not to go.
The show’s producers, Premier Stage Productions have been touring children’s theatre across the UK since 1997. With the addition of new songs and a backdrop of beautiful scenery, their aim is to bring the famous books to life in a new an exciting way that will delight audiences of all ages.
The Tales of Peter Rabbit begins at 2.30pm and tickets cost £8 for adults, £7 for children, with a family ticket (two adults, two children) £28. To book contact the box office on 01634 338338 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/theatrebooking

March 2009 Surgery

2009-03-06T16:59:00.003Z

The March Saturday surgery will be held tomorrow at the Church of Christ the King in Dove Close.

Cllr Gulvin will be there in attendance to answer any local issues between 10-11am.

No appointment is necessary.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Applications

2009-03-06T16:43:00.004Z

Here is the latest planning application for the Princes Park ward.

Lordswood Lane

posted by matt bright.

Citizens Advice

2009-02-22T16:26:00.002Z

Together with Jobsmatch Medway and the Revenue and Benefits team at the Council, Citizens Advice Medway is holding a seminar for people who have either been made redundant or threatened with redundancy at under1roof, 5A New Road Avenue, Chatham from 1.00pm to 5.00pm on Thursday 26th February. We shall be able to offer advice on benefits, debt, housing and employment law as well support on training opportunities, job search and CVs.

Peter Stokes
CEO, Citizens Advice Medway

01634 409715 or 07957 912108

posted by pat

Scam Mail

2009-02-19T23:58:00.003Z

Closing the door on scam mail
Medway residents are being asked to help in the battle against scam mail, which affects about three million people a year.
Medway Trading Standards has joined forces with the Office Of Fair Trading (OFT) to stop letterboxes being blighted by promises of money, fake competition prizes and holidays from bogus companies. Anyone who receives these types of letters and emails, as well as ones promising miracle health cures and get-rich-quick schemes can drop them into one of five Scamnesty points in Medway.
You can drop your scam mail at the following Scamnesty points until Sunday, 15th February:
ASDA, Maidstone Road, Chatham Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre. Morrisons, Knight Road, Strood. Strood Post Office, North Street. Medway Council offices, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham. Civic Centre Contact Point Gillingham Library, High Street. Rainham Contact Point Rochester Contact Point, Visitor Information Centre, High Street. Sainsbury’s, Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre. Dockside Outlet Shopping Centre, Chatham Maritime. Gillingham Post Office, WH Smith, High Street, Gillingham. Tesco, Courtney Road, Gillingham. Chatham Post Office, Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham.
All letters handed in will be examined by Medway Trading Standards and the OFT to help prevent others from becoming a victim of scam mailings, which are usually sent from international addresses.
Trading Standards officers have also been running surgeries for anyone who is concerned about scam mail.
The campaign is part of February’s Scams Awareness Month to help people avoid falling victim to scams, particularly the elderly and vulnerable.
Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Safety and Enforcement Cllr Rehman Chishti said: “We have all received letters promising us that we have won a luxury holiday or car, if we send money to an organisation are usually scams. The advice is if it seems to good to be true, it usually is.
“I want everyone who has been a victim of these bogus prizes to contact Medway Trading Standards with details of any scam mailings they receive so we can stop someone else becoming a victim of this illegal trade.”
If you think you have fallen victim of scam mail and would like impartial advice, phone Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.
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posted by Pat

February Surgery 2009

2009-02-06T19:52:00.003Z

After a two month break the Princes Park surgery is back tomorrow.
I will be there between 10-11am to answer any local issues from residents in Princes Park.
The surgery is in the normal place (and now permanent home) in the church in Dove Close.

No appointment is necessary, just turn up.
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posted by matt bright.

Mobile Citizens Advice

2009-02-06T14:37:00.002Z

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Free advice

Benefit Bus

Information on: How best to save and avoid interest charges.

Information will be confidential.

Based at ASDA’s

Near Rochester airport

In the car park

Monday the 9th February 2009
Tuesday the 10th February 2009

From 9.00 am to 5.00pm

Sponsored by the office of fair trading and run by Citizen Advice.
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posted by pat

Cameron Direct on Video

2009-02-05T15:56:00.003Z

I said before that as soon as we had a link to Cameron Direct I would add it to the blog. So if you click HERE you will be able to see Cameron direct from Chatham and Aylesford. It is well worth viewing.

posted by Pat

Rochester Castle

2009-02-05T15:03:00.002Z

A fairytale offer at Rochester Castle
If you’re looking for an unusual way to say I love you without breaking the bank this Valentine’s Day, Rochester Castle could be the perfect setting. Couples visiting the castle on Saturday, 14 February can take an advantage of a two for the price of one ticket offer.
An inspiration for artists and writers for centuries, the castle has fabulous views from the battlements – making it an ideal location for a romantic day out or even a proposal. For those who are serious about popping the question, the castle chapel will be hosting information about Medway wedding venues, so you could book your big day too. Wedding staff will be on site from 11am-2pm.
Rochester castle is open daily from 10am to 4pm, and last admission is 45 minutes before closing. Admission is £5 for adults, £4 for students and seniors. The 2 for 1 offer, valid on Saturday, 14 February only, allows one free admission with one full paying adult, senior or student. Opening times may vary in extreme weather conditions. For further information contact the castle on 01634 402276.

posted by Pat

Bligh Childrens Centre

2009-02-05T15:01:00.002Z

Stuck for February break ideas?
Bligh Children’s Centre is offering two exciting activities to keep children entertained during the February break.
On Tuesday, 17 February from 10am to 12noon the centre is holding a winter-themed arts and craft session for under-5s and their families.
Splatter and Splodge will be a paradise of paint where children and families can get stuck in and be creative, with the added bonus of leaving the mess behind.
Face painting will also be part of the fun.
The free session is open to all local families and will be at Bligh Children’s Centre, Bligh Way, Strood.
If action and adventure is what you fancy then look no further.
On Thursday, 19 February the children’s centre has hired out the Sea Cavern at Strood Sports Centre.
The Sea Cavern is a fantastic way to keep young children entertained and they are guaranteed to go home exhausted.
Swinging ropes, soft ball pools, gym mats and foam shapes are all part of the free event.
There are two sessions on offer, either from 10am to 11am or from 11.30am to 12.30pm.
Children must be under 10 and all places need to be booked in advance, as numbers are limited for each session.
For more information or to book a place at the Sea Cavern, phone Bligh Children’s Centre on 01634 710154

posted by Pat

Labour short changes Medway

2009-01-27T17:47:00.003Z

Labour short changes Medway to the tune of £5 million whilst others get increases of more than £50 million

The Labour government have confirmed that they will be cutting an astonishing 5.6 percent of Medway’s funding this year, which represents nearly £5 million, whilst other councils, such as Wandsworth, will get an increase of more than £50 million.

This means that for every person living in Medway the Brown government is taking more than £18 - enough for every single resident to go and see Joe Swash in Cinderella for free.

Last week the government announced that they would press on with plans to cut more than £4.8 million from Medway’s budget as part of the so called Floor Damping Mechanism.

Instead of fully funding Medway, the government decides what they believe Medway needs and then takes part of the funding back and gives it to other councils.

Although this mechanism is supposed to make sure all councils receive a minimum level of funding, in reality it means that some local authorities are getting more than they need, whilst others, such as Medway, receive less than it requires to run vital services.

Research conducted by Medway’s Conservative Group shows that other councils with similar population levels are receiving a cash boost through damping, whereas Medway faces cuts.

For example, Brighton and Hove Council is receiving a massive £19.7 million windfall this year.

Even taking account of average deprivation levels in the area, using the government’s indices of multiple deprivation, councils with similar levels to Medway are receiving more.

Wandsworth Council, which has a similar level of deprivation and a slightly larger population is getting more than £50 million - That’s a whopping £182 extra for every resident.

Hillingdon Council with a very similar population and deprivation levels to Medway is only facing a cut of £454,000 to their budget.

Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group on Medway Council Cllr Alan Jarrett said:

“Medway Council is facing another swingeing cut in its funding whilst other councils with similar demands on its services and similar population and deprivation levels are receiving up to £50 million more. This cannot be fair and is robbing the residents of Medway of the services they deserve.”

posted by pat

National Armed Forces Day

2009-01-24T09:57:00.005Z

National Armed Forces Day
Following the announcement that Chatham's Historic Dockyard has been chosen as the venue to hold the UK's first ever National Armed Forces Day on 27 June this year, Cllr Rodney Chambers, the leader of Medway Council, said:
“We are extremely proud that Chatham’s Historic Dockyard has been chosen as the place where the first national Armed Forces Day will be held on 27 June this year.
“Chatham and the Medway area have played a pivotal part in our nation’s military history for centuries.
“This link with Britain’s armed forces remains extremely strong with the Royal Engineers, which is based at Brompton barracks in Chatham, being given the Freedom of Medway last year.
“Chatham’s historic naval dockyard is a fitting place to celebrate and pay tribute to our armed services and all those British servicemen who have played a part in protecting our country.
“Medway Council worked closely with the South East England Development Agency in support of the Historic Dockyard's bid to hold Armed Forces Day and I am very pleased that this was successful.”

posted by Pat

Theatre’s new drama is the pick of the crop

2009-01-24T09:54:00.004Z

---------------------------------------------
Theatre’s new drama is the pick of the crop
The Central Theatre’s drama season begins in February with a brand new version of Chekhov’s masterpiece The Cherry Orchard.
The production is presented by Blackeyed Theatre, who brought the highly acclaimed Oh What A Lovely War to the Chatham venue in 2008. The company is now on a major UK tour with this new production, written and adapted by Bart Lee.
The Cherry Orchard is the last (and some say greatest) play by one of the most important writers of his generation. It tells the story of Lyuba Ranyevskaya, whose aristocratic family is forced to give up its beloved cherry orchard as the social landscape of Russia changes forever. But against the painful emotions of change are fantastic comedic characters, dazzling dialogue and around every corner a sense of the absurd.
This new adaptation offers modern audiences a new take on Chekhov’s classic, combining tragedy and farce, serious drama and vaudeville, to create an exuberant, hilarious and ultimately very touching piece of theatre.
Blackeyed Theatre, which is supported in this production by South Hill Park Arts Centre in Bracknell, is a nationally renowned producer of challenging mid-scale touring theatre.
The Cherry Orchard will be performed at The Central Theatre from Thursday, 12 to Saturday, 14 February at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £16 and £14, or £9 when booking for three plays in the drama season. For further information contact the box office on 01634 338338 or visit www.medway.gov.uk/theatrebooking

posted by Pat

Medway to welcome one of Britain’s best-known Paralympic medallists

2009-01-24T09:49:00.002Z

Medway to welcome one of Britain’s best-known Paralympic medallists
Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE – the 11 times Paralympic gold medallist – will be giving a lecture in Medway next month.
The Medway Council organised lecture, entitled Seize the Day: The Battle to be the Best will take place on Tuesday, 10 February in the Pilkington Building, University of Kent, Medway Campus.
Tanni is Britain's best-known Paralympics athlete, having performed at world-class level, in distances ranging from 100m to the marathon. Tanni's career has taken her around the world to every major international event. Her 16 Paralympics medals including 11 golds, six times winner of the Women’s London Wheelchair Marathon and her comprehensive set of British and World Records make her achievements second to none in the disability sport arena.
Tanni inspiration lecture with will focus on fighting for equality, the importance of the Paralympics in changing attitudes to disability sport and how Medway can maximize the benefits of the 2012 Games.
The lecture starts at 6pm, with drinks available from 5.30pm onwards.
Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Services, Cllr Howard Doe said: “I am confident that Dame Tanni’s lecture will be thought-provoking, inspiring and above all enjoyable. I do hope you can join us on 10 February.”
Tickets are free but there are a limited number available and these will be allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis.
To be sure of your seat book a place with Emma Spencer by Tuesday, 27 January. Email Emma.spencer@medway.og.uk or phone 01634 331055
When you book your tickets please state if you have any specific access, or other requirements.

posted by Pat

Planning Application

2009-01-18T18:03:00.002Z

There is just one planning application received by Medway Council involving the Princes Park ward.

Heritage Road

posted by matt bright.

Mystery of the missing barriers.

2009-01-18T17:50:00.005Z

Now you don't see it.

Now you do.

Pat and I had several questions recently asking what happened to the barriers along the pathway from Swallow Rise, due to them being missing for a couple of weeks before Christmas.

Well, we are pleased to say that they didn't get stolen, but they were temporarily removed for some work vans to drive along the path to install some security fencing (previous story on here).

We are pleased to say that they have now been reinstalled to carry on in our constant battle against the unruly motorbikers in Princes Park.

posted by matt bright.

Council congratulates children for best ever results

2009-01-17T09:50:00.001Z

Council congratulates children for best ever results

Cross party support was reached for a Conservative motion congratulating Medway’s young people for achieving the best ever exam results.
Exam results announced on Thursday (15 January) revealed that 66 percent of Medway’s pupils had received five A*-C grades at GCSE compared to 64 percent in 2007. This was above the national average of 65 percent.
Post 16 results also continued to improve across Medway’s schools.
At a meeting of the council on Thursday (15 January) all members voted to commend the tremendous achievement of Medway school children in the GCSE results for this academic year. In doing so, the council also recognised and appreciated the efforts of the teaching and support staff that have worked so hard to achieve these results.
Proposer of the motion Cllr Mike O’Brien said:
“I am proud of our young people for their tremendous efforts in achieving the best results ever in Medway and this motion, which was supported by all councillors, is in recognition of all the hard work of the teachers, support staff and pupils.”
.
posted by pat

Childrens Healthcare Services

2009-01-17T09:48:00.003Z

New arrangements for children's healthcare services
.
Following the move at short notice of the Sanderson Child Development Centre, NHS Medway, which runs the service, can now confirm that some clinics and appointments are expected to start again by the end of next week.
The centre’s services are going to be provided from: · Rochester Healthy Living Centre, Delce Road, Rochester, ME1 2EL · Rainham Healthy Living Centre, High Street, Rainham, ME8 8AA · A Block, Medway Hospital
Work is getting underway at each base to install equipment and prepare rooms for the clinics and treatments carried out by the Child Development Centre team.
Martin Riley, Director of Provider Services for NHS Medway, said: “I would like to apologise to the parents of children who use the Sanderson Child Development Centre for the unavoidable disruption to our services this week.
“We are now able to confirm that alternative premises have been found, equipment is being moved and fitted, and staff are organising new clinic timetables. We know our service is highly valued by parents and we expect to be running sessions again by the end of next week.”
Parents and carers of all children who attend the centre will be sent their new appointment details shortly. Few, if any, changes are expected to appointments for children seen in their own homes or at their schools.
The Sanderson Child Development Centre moved from its base in a ward at the hospital at short notice on Friday, to allow more inpatients to be treated at a time of exceptional demand.
In a change jointly agreed by NHS Medway and Medway NHS Foundation Trust, the ward is now being refurbished and will reopen before the end of January as a temporary single-sex medical ward for female patients.
Mr Riley said: “I am very proud of the way our staff rose to the challenge of helping out Medway Hospital, when it told us on Friday that it needed to convert the Sanderson Child Development Centre back into a ward to cope with exceptional demand for inpatient beds.
“Many of the centre’s 48 staff worked over the weekend to move out all our equipment and files so we could hand back the space.
“We managed to contact all parents with appointments due at the centre in the next few days, and are now contacting every parent or carer of a child who attends the centre.
“All the equipment that has been donated by the community to the Sanderson Child Development Centre is safe and we can assure people we will get it back into use for the benefit of children in Medway as soon as we can.”
The Sanderson Child Development Centre, which is part of NHS Medway, provides specialist medical and therapeutic services for local children with complex multi disabilities.
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posted by pat

GP Services

2009-01-17T09:46:00.003Z

Patients to have say in improving GP services
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People in Medway have received a new questionnaire asking for their views about family doctor services.
The country-wide survey, which is being carried out for the Department of Health, gives patients registered with a surgery the opportunity to have their say about the services they receive.
Last year’s questionnaire highlighted that patients wanted more appointment slots with GPs at times that suited them.
The NHS listened and acted and as a result of last year’s questionnaire, NHS Medway worked with GPs to increase the number of appointments at convenient times for residents.
Across Medway 81 per cent of practices now offer patients early, late or weekend appointments - well above the national average.
This is the third year running that the Department of Health has organised the survey.
The survey now includes more questions to find out if GP practices are getting the basics right for their patients - whether patients find receptionists helpful, have the option of telephone consultations, feel their problem is understood and how they rate the overall care they receive. Patients are also asked to rate local out-of-hours care to ensure healthcare is easily accessible when patients need it.
To have your say it’s important Ipsos MORI receive the completed questionnaires by Monday, 13 April.
For further information please contact Emma Burns on 01634 332092, 07939 235402 or at emma.burns@nhs.net; or Caroline Chick on 01634 338457 or at caroline.chick@medway.gov.uk.
NHS Medway is the new name for Medway Primary Care Trust.
We pay for all NHS healthcare for everyone who lives in Medway.
We want to make sure the right care is there when you need it, and to help you improve your health.
Did you know that: · Hospital waiting lists are shorter than ever before and still falling? · You now have a choice of hospital and specialist for most conditions? · It is easier to see GPs and NHS dentists in Medway than ever before?
Your views and experiences can help us improve further. If you would like to get involved and work in partnership with us to shape services and be part of the future of your local NHS, we would love to hear from you.
Please contact:
Kim Eaglestone, Head of Patient Carer and Public Involvement NHS Medway, 7–8 Ambley Green, Gillingham Business Park, Gillingham, Kent ME8 0NJ Tel: 01634 382771
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posted by pat

Cameron Direct Part 2

2009-01-15T17:54:00.002Z

As part of David Camerons visit to Chatham and Aylesford he also attended a members evening in Lordswood before he made the short journey to Princes Park.
He was unable to speak on the stage for too long due to his voice disappearing, as he wanted to save his best for the general public.
He had a very warm welcome from members and I managed to briefly speak with him. Due to the public event being held in Princes Park he was very curious to what sort of reception he would receive.

posted by matt bright.

Cameron Direct

2009-01-13T07:34:00.004Z

Cameron In Princes Park

We were very lucky, yesterday evening, to have David Cameron visit us here in Princes Park. He did not come to make speeches or talk to the party faithful. He came to answer questions from the general public.Poor David had a very sore throat but he managed to get his voice to hold out (just) until the end.

There were about 200 people in Christ the King. It consisted of a cross section of the local residents and very much a cross section of age groups. In the audience were a group from Medway Youth Parliament and another group from the local Sixth Form. The questions were very varied and showed the concerns of the individual. This is what makes these sessions so successful. There are no planned responses as David did not know what would be asked.

Cameron Direct Team filmed the whole time and you will be able to view it later. As soon as the video is ready I will put a link on the blog for you.

Also in the audience we had the renowned blogger Iain Dale. He was blogging the whole time. So if you log into Iain Dale's Diary you will be able to follow the evening s questions.

I spoke to quite a few people as they were leaving and the response seemed very positive. I hope it makes people more positive about politics and realise it is not all spin.

I would like to say a big, big thank you to the Vicar Keith Foot and his wife for all the help they gave me. Also the lovely ladies who just stayed behind to help with the washing-up. I had not expected that at all. My husband, Adrian, and I were all prepared to get on with it but there they were these ladies from the church. So a big thank you again.

posted by Pat

Helping the elderly and vulnerable maintain their independence

2009-01-10T16:50:00.001Z

Helping the elderly and vulnerable maintain their independence
Elderly and vulnerable adults and people with special needs or disabilities can find out to maintain their independence at an event in Strood.
On Wednesday, 14 January, residents and carers can learn about the services available to them at an independence fair at Strood Sports Centre. There are two sessions, 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm, which must be booked.
Providers of care and information including Age Concern, The Carers’ Centre and Medway Mobility will be among the agencies attending Medway Council’s second community infrastructure fair to showcase the services available to residents.
Medway Council has commissioned a new service, called Living Well in Medway, to help adults maintain their independence and access vital care services. The service is being delivered by Church in Society and Chatham Citizens Advice Bureau in Chatham, Rochester and Strood and by Carers First in the Gillingham and Rainham areas.
People will be able to refer themselves, or be referred by others such as another care provider or social care team. Anyone needing care will be assessed and helped to link up with a suitable provider.
Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Carol Galvin by either email carol.galvin@medway.gov.uk or phone 01634 331232 by 7 with the following information by Wednesday, 7 January 2009.
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posted by pat

Cameron Direct

2009-01-06T12:37:00.004Z

David Cameron in Princes Park

We are very lucky that Christ the King in Princes Ave has been chosen for the next Cameron Direct. This is where you ask the questions, on any subject , for David Cameron to answer. This will be the first one in Kent so it will certainly put us on the map.

The event is on 12th January (next Monday) from 6:30 to 7:30. It is an all ticket event and it is for non-members of the Conservative Party. If you are interested and would like to book your place e-mail camerondirect@traceycrouch.co.uk Make sure you reply quickly as the meeting is open to all residents who live in the Chatham and Aylesford constituency.

I am looking forward to meeting you there. Yes, I am allowed in as I will be working.

Posted by Pat

Well done Gillingham F.C.

2009-01-04T18:41:00.002Z

Well done Gillingham. I watch the game with my mother this afternoon and we were very proud of the way the team played. They were not expected to win, but they got so, so close. I think Aston Villa were getting very worried. As I said before well done boys you can hold you heads high. Now go out and show the league what you are made of.

posted by Pat

MAJOR NEW ADVICE, INFORMATION AND ADVOCACY SERVICES FOR MEDWAY

2009-01-02T21:42:00.000Z

MAJOR NEW ADVICE, INFORMATION AND ADVOCACY SERVICES FOR MEDWAY

DOMESTIC ABUSE ADVOCACY SERVICE

Citizens Advice Medway is delighted to announce its new domestic abuse telephone helpline that will operate on each weekday from 8.30am to 4.30pm. This service covers Medway as well as the whole of Kent. The service offers victims of domestic abuse assistance ranging from help leaving an abusive situation, finding refuge places, advising on housing rights and welfare benefits up to applying to the courts for non-molestation orders. The Service’s own dedicated solicitor can help victims obtain court orders to protect them and their children from harassment, abuse and violence. Victims of Domestic Abuse can access this service by telephoning 01634 576083. The service will allow fast access to other specialist legal services covering welfare benefits, housing and debt/money problems.

Citizens Advice Medway CEO, Peter Stokes, said: We are delighted to have received the backing of the Legal Services Commission in establishing this service. It will not only help women in abusive relationships but also men and people in same sex relationships. Unfortunately we are seeing more and more need for this service as more and more people are faced with abuse. Abuse doesn’t just mean actual violence but threatening behaviour, verbal abuse and control.

The service will be available to everyone who is faced with abuse from within their family or relationship. Not just the stereotypical man on woman but same sex relationships, woman on man and between family members.

January Surgery 2009

2009-01-02T17:25:00.002Z

There will be no surgery this month due to the church being closed on Saturday 3rd January.

However, if any residents need assistance with any local issue then they can contact myself or Cllr Pat Gulvin direct.

The surgery next month should be running as normal.

posted by matt bright.

New Planning Application

2009-01-02T17:23:00.003Z

Here is the latest planning application with the Princes Park ward.

Scotby Avenue

posted by matt bright.

Remembered Recipe

2008-12-31T12:08:00.006Z

Katie's Kitchen Scrapbook

I was looking through my old recipe scrapbook the other day. I was looking for things my husband could use the left overs from Christmas. I came across some recipes from about forty years ago. Some of our older residents will probably remember Katie from the OXO advert. Well one of the recipes I found was one of Katie's labelled Money Spinner. Which I will write out at the end.

Well the reason for this blog is that it made me think that there are quite a few residents who may have ideas on how to save money. It could be recipes or how to make cleaning equipment go further or anything. I thought it might be a good idea if we shared this with others. I can see the recession getting a lot worse and may all have to tighten are belts. So if we all started thinking now how to save perhaps we may get through this.

So come on ladies and gents lets have your recession beaters.

My Recipe

Beanfeast Flan

Rub 1 1/2 oz. marg. and 1 1/2 oz lard into 6oz sieved flour.

Add 1 oxo cube dissolved in tablesp. hot water (cooled),

and enough cold water to make a firm dough. Roll out and line 9" flan dish.

Bake blind 15 minutes (gas mark 6) removing baking beans and cook a further 10 minutes.

Fry 2oz chopped bacon, 2oz sliced mushrooms and 1 chopped onion until tender. Add one can of baked beans 1 oxo cube and heat through. Turn into pastry case and top with mashed potato and a knob of butter. Brown under the grill.

posted by Pat

Make Our Roads Safer

2008-12-30T10:09:00.004Z

Make our roads safer – make walking to school your New Year resolution

In an effort to reduce the number of people parking illegally outside schools, Medway Council’s Road Safety Team suggests a healthy New Year’s resolution for children and parents alike – get walking.

Schools are consistently battling with illegally parked cars on restrictive road markings, such as on yellow single, double and zigzag lines. These lines are designed to allow pedestrians, in particular vulnerable pedestrians such as children, to see clearly and cross the road safely.

The Road Safety Team is asking parents and children to get walking to school, even if it's just for part of the journey. Other than the obvious health benefits, if more schoolchildren walked to school there would be fewer cars parked illegally and dangerously.

Su Negus, Principal Road Safety Officer, said: “Children are a similar height to a car meaning they are completely invisible to drivers until they step out into the road, which is too late.

“Most people who park on the lines think its OK because they are just there for a few minutes. However, when you have dozens of people doing the same thing it means the area is constantly congested with illegally parked cars.”

Medway Council’s Road Safety Team and Parking Services are urging drivers to leave their cars at home or park in an appropriate safe location to make crossing the road safer for all road users, particularly schoolchildren.

posted by pat

Free Swimming for Young and Old Alike

2008-12-30T10:00:00.003Z

Free swimming for young and old alike
Thousands of people aged under 16 and over 60 can now benefit from free swimming at all of Medway Council’s swimming pools.
The move, which is backed by the government and financed until March 2011, aims to keep younger and older people healthy and active.
Free swimming starts on Friday, 2 January at the following pools: · Black Lion Leisure Centre, Gillingham · Strood Sports Centre · Splashes Leisure Centre, Rainham · Hundred of Hoo swimming pool, Hoo · The Strand leisure pool, Gillingham
The Black Lion pool is only open after 4pm until the end of March due to the refurbishment programme.
Free swimming was due to start in Medway this April (2009), but extra finance from NHS Medway meant the council could introduce it at the beginning of the year.
Cllr Howard Doe, the Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “Swimming is one of the best ways for people to keep fit, active and healthy.
“I am pleased that thanks to the support of NHS Medway we are able to introduce free swimming from January for the under 16s and over 60s, so that the people of Medway can benefit from this scheme from the beginning of 2009.”
Marion Dinwoodie, Chief Executive of NHS Medway, said: “I’m pleased that NHS Medway is supporting Medway Council with this initiative and has enabled the council to introduce free swimming ahead of schedule. Swimming is great fun and an excellent way to keep fit and healthy. I hope Medway residents will take up this free offer.”
Free swimming will be available during normal public swimming times at all council pools.

posted by pat

MAJOR NEW ADVICE, INFORMATION AND ADVOCACY SERVICES FOR MEDWAY

2008-12-26T08:58:00.003Z

MAJOR NEW ADVICE, INFORMATION AND ADVOCACY SERVICES FOR MEDWAY

Citizens Advice Medway and Jobsmatch Medway are announcing the launch of a new service for those residents of Medway who are most at risk from losing their jobs as a result of the recession and credit crunch. From today Citizens Advice Medway is operating a redundancy helpline whereby people faced with redundancy can seek help and assistance on:

Their employment rights
Qualifying and applying for benefits
Maximising their income
Getting the right redundancy payment
Paying their bills
Financial management
Finding another job

People can access this new service by telephoning 01634 888182 between 9.00am and 4.30pm each weekday.

Citizens Advice Medway and Jobsmatch are providing two seminars for people threatened with or made redundant on 6th and 8th January 2009 at under1roof, 5A New Road Avenue, Chatham ME4 6BB. The seminars start at 9.30am and will last about 2½ hours. They will cover all aspects of benefits, managing bills, financial management, redundancy payments/employment law and finding another job. We have capacity for 60+ people so there is no need to book a place.

Citizens Advice Medway CEO, Peter Stokes, said: We are delighted to join up with Jobsmatch Medway in providing this service but are deeply saddened by the need to do so. Being made redundant happens to so many people during their working life and it can cause deep disruption and loss of esteem. We need to support people in making sure that they are best equipped to face the difficult times ahead and help them keep their homes. This new collaboration will provide much-needed additional support to all those facing redundancy. A lot of people will be affected by the credit crunch and this service will help to ensure that people will get the help and assistance they need.

Peter Stokes added: Hopefully this will be a short term service but who knows what the future holds in these uncertain times. This service will allow us to refer people to other agencies if we are unable to help them fully. It will also allow people access to the other services that we operate on behalf of the Legal Services Commission, such as welfare benefits, debt/money, employment and housing,

Cathy Le-Page, Project Co-ordinator at Jobsmatch Medway said: Sadly "The wonder of Woolworth's will be no more" what a great shame. It would be great if any employers looking to recruit retail staff would look favourable on those being made redundant from Woolworth's, MFI and Fads, as well as others. We are hoping to register staff with us so that we can provide FREE information on employment opportunities within Medway.
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posted by pat

Medway Council and Recycling

2008-12-22T18:34:00.003Z

Medway Council and Recycling

Medway residents continue to support recycling. Cllr Phil Filmer portfolio member for front line services said: “We do not send recyclable material to landfill sites. The only material that is sent to landfill is non-recyclable or contaminated material.

“In the last four years, Medway has doubled the amount of waste it recycles and now recycles or composts more than 30 per cent of all the waste it collects.

“Waste collected for recycling by the council is collected in three ways. These are a fortnightly collection from people’s home, neighbourhood bring sites (such as bottle, textile and paper banks) and household waste recycling centres (there are three in Medway and these are where residents can bring a wider range of material such as electrical items, batteries, chemicals and other material which it is not possible to collect from people’s homes). Unlike 9million people in the UK who now only get their waste collected every two weeks, Medway continues to be committed to a weekly collection of household waste.

“An article in Saturday’s Daily Telegraph stated that Medway sent more than 10 per cent of its recyclable waste or compost to landfill. This is not the case. In fact, only five per cent of material initially collected for recycling or for composting is sent to landfill as it is contaminated in some way and cannot therefore be recycled.

“Medway Council recycles more than 30 per cent of the total household waste it collects. This figure does not include any contaminated material, which has had to be sent to landfill, as this cannot be recycled.

“The council’s recycling is not affected by the economic downturn and we have not changed our recyling policy, except to increase the range of material we can recycle, since it was introduced in 2002. We now collect glass from households – a new service introduced in the last few months in reaction to demand from residents.

“Medway residents do a great job separating recycling from their normal household waste to help protect the environment.

“At Christmas time, we all receive a great deal of wrapping paper and food and drinks packaging that can be recycled.

“If residents are in any doubt about how to recycle the right materials they should visit the council website – www.medway.gov.uk/recyclenow -, look at their recyling calendar (which was sent to every home over the last couple of months), or call the council’s contact centre on 01634 333333 for more information.”

The material that Medway Council can recycle includes:

- Kerbside recyling (material that residents leave outside their homes in blue boxes or blue bags). Newspapers and magazines, all phone books, junk mail, card and cardboard, envelopes, all types of metal food and drinks cans, aerosols, foil, plastic bottles, carrier bags and glass bottles and jars.
- Bring Sites (Bottle banks etc.). Glass bottles and jars, all types of metal cans, paper and cardboard, textiles and shoes and five sites with liquid beverage cartons (Tetrapaks).
- Household waste recycling sites (there are three in Medway). All the materials above as well as electrical items, fridges and freezers, garden waste, metal, engine oil, car and household batteries, gas bottles, fluorescent light tubes and wood.

posted by pat

Funding for food lessons

2008-12-19T17:09:00.002Z

Funding for food lessons
Six Medway schools are celebrating after it was announced that they will receive £300,000 funding each for food technology lessons. The money is targeted on schools where current facilities need improvement.
The DCSF funding amounts to £1.5million for Medway.
The funding is for practical cooking spaces and to support the introduction of compulsory food technology lessons for pupils in the early years of secondary education. The Government decided to make the money available after it became concerned that some children and young people are leaving school without having gained basic cookery skills.
The six schools are Chatham Grammar School for Boys, Sir Joseph Williamson Mathematical School, The Howard School, Greenacre School and The Rochester Grammar School.
Cllr Les Wicks, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services said: “I welcome the news of this funding. It’s great news for students. Learning to cook and understand how to handle food is a great life skill and one which will enable our young people to be more independent.”
Rose Collinson, Director of Children and Adult Services, said: “Increasingly. Government is realising that it is essential to help young people gain practical and work-related skills at home and at school. In Medway, we are leading the way in offering these skills alongside more traditional academic studies. Introducing this kind of learning allows more young people to achieve in different ways, as well as ensuring that they have the ability to earn a living and look after themselves and their families as they grow into adulthood.”
[Ends]

posted by pat

Dartford Crossing

2008-12-17T09:42:00.002Z

Dartford Crossing

I have just been catching up with Tracey’s blog. She has a very good article about the Dartford Crossing. It is something that affects a lot of us. If you need to go almost anywhere in the UK you have to use the crossing. So please use our link and read Tracey’s article.
Posted by Pat

Exciting changes at a library near you

2008-12-17T09:31:00.003Z

Exciting changes at a library near you
Calling all library users - if you haven’t re-registered your details at Medway libraries, it’s not too late to do so.
A new computer system, which will be installed in Spring 2009 will provide a speedier and more efficient service and we need residents help to make that happen.
While everyone needs to re-register, this is a good opportunity for residents who have moved or changed names to make sure all contact details are correct. Parents can update children’s details.
As part of this IT upgrade, from 21 January four-week loans will change to three weeks loans. Current customers should note that the due dates of items they currently have on loan will not change.
Re-registering is easy and takes just five minutes. Residents can either phone 337799 or by pop into their local library.
Residents who haven’t visited a library recently should come and take a look at what’s available. Libraries have changed and offer more than just books. With music, DVDs, free internet use, book clubs for all ages and monthly music and reading events - there’s something for everyone.
[Ends] Exciting changes at a library near you
Calling all library users - if you haven’t re-registered your details at Medway libraries, it’s not too late to do so.
A new computer system, which will be installed in Spring 2009 will provide a speedier and more efficient service and we need residents help to make that happen.
While everyone needs to re-register, this is a good opportunity for residents who have moved or changed names to make sure all contact details are correct. Parents can update children’s details.
As part of this IT upgrade, from 21 January four-week loans will change to three weeks loans. Current customers should note that the due dates of items they currently have on loan will not change.
Re-registering is easy and takes just five minutes. Residents can either phone 337799 or by pop into their local library.
Residents who haven’t visited a library recently should come and take a look at what’s available. Libraries have changed and offer more than just books. With music, DVDs, free internet use, book clubs for all ages and monthly music and reading events - there’s something for everyone.

posted by pat

New Planning Application

2008-12-12T17:41:00.003Z

This is the latest planning application for Princes Park.

Hopwell Drive

posted by matt bright.

Christmas Markets

2008-12-12T17:06:00.003Z

Christmas Markets

This December two markets will help with all your Christmas shopping needs.
For fresh fruit, vegetables and all things Christmassy, shoppers will find it hard to beat the Farmers' Market in Corporation Street, Rochester on Sunday, 21 December.
Festive goodies for sale include cooked turkeys, Christmas cakes and puddings, mince pies and festive gifts.
All the regular goods will also be available including award winning pies, sausages, fudge and cakes, apple juice, cider, wine, beer, jams, olives, vegetables, bread, soups, cheese, plants, soaps and handmade jewellery.
Shoppers with a last minute approach to buying gifts will be pleased to hear that Gillingham Market is open on Christmas Eve from 9am to 4pm. All the usual stalls will be there.