Maidstone Borough Council

Update
Borough
East, September 2012

Maidstone Mela is better than ever see page 2

www.maidstone.gov.uk

Maidstone Borough Council

Free bulky rubbish service

Most weekends Maidstone council refuse lorries collect bulky household rubbish from locations in your area. Take your refuse to the Saturday Freighter Service at the times shown: 13th October
07:45 - 08:30 08:40 - 09:20 09:30 - 10:10 10:20 - 11:00 12:00 - 12:40 12:50 - 13:30 13:40 - 14:20 14:30 - 15:10 15:15 - 15:45 Frinsted Church Wormshill. The Street Harrietsham. Church Lane Harrietsham School Lenham. Douglas Road Lenham.. Ham Lane/Cherry Orchard Lenham. Honeywood Road Platts Heath. Green Lane Grafty Green. Church Lane

20th October
07:45 - 08:30 Hollingbourne. Troys Mead 08:45 - 09:15 Lenham. Warren Street 09:25 - 09:55 Ulcombe. Lodge Gardens

3rd November
07:45 - 08:15 Walderslade. Impton Lane/Spenlow Drive 08:25 - 09:00 Walderslade. Impton Lane/Olivine Road 09:15 - 10:00 Bredhurst. Hurstwood Road 10:15 - 11:00 Stockbury Village Hall 12:00 - 12:45 Detling Village Hall 14:50 - 15:45 Sandling. Tyland Lane

10th November
12:00 - 12:55 Vinters Park. Marston Drive 13:05 - 14:05 Vinters Park. Hampton Road

Mela is ten times better

Maidstones tenth anniversary Mela was the biggest yet. Artists included the Maidstone Nepalese Dance Group, the award winning Mandy Ellen School of Dance, the colourful Four by Four Bhangra, the Winners of the Maidstone Got Talent Competition, Steel Ambition, Harmony and the Square Pegs Drama Group. The Mela was headlined by leading tribute act Jessie Jay, bhangra fusion star PBN (Panjabi by Nature) and the ever popular Magnificent Motown Band. Gurvinder Sandher, Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus, said: We are very proud to have been working in partnership with Maidstone Borough Council on the Mela for ten years now. Each year we have tried to develop upon the success of previous years and this year is no exception. Maidstone Mela celebrates the diversity of Maidstone through music, food and dance. It is organised in partnership by Maidstone Borough Council, Cohesion Plus Kent and the Kent Equality Cohesion Council.

24th November
12:15 - 13:00 South 13:10 - 14:00 North 14:10 - 15:10 15:10 - 15:45 Road Grove Green. Grovewood Drive Grove Green. Grovewood Drive Madginford. Merton Road Bearsted. Ashford Road/Rosemary

1st December
09:05 - 09:50 Senacre. Woolley Road 09:45 - 10:20 Senacre. Betsham Road by garages

We cannot accept garden waste, very large bulky items and electrical or hazardous items. You can dispose of these items through our paid for bulky collection service or at the household waste recycling centre at Burial Ground Lane, Tovil, Maidstone. It is open Monday to Saturday, 8am to 4.30pm, and Sunday and Bank Holidays, 9am to 4pm. For more information about our bulky rubbish services, including paid for doorstep collections, visit maidstone.gov.uk or call the cleansing hotline on 01622 602162.

Safety in Action
Pupils from Maidstone schools have been awarded prizes for becoming better citizens and improving their safety skills. More than 1,000 junior school pupils from across the borough took part in the Safety in Action day at the 36 Engineers barracks in Maidstone to learn about environmental hazards, stranger danger, fire and water hazards, road safety, drugs and first aid. Maidstone Mayor Cllr Rodd Nelson-Grace made a whistle stop tour of five of the boroughs schools to present certificates and a cup, and over 100 medals were awarded to pupils who had got the highest marks in a competition to judge what pupils learnt from the day.

Maidstone Borough Council New garden waste service

Maidstones gardeners are being asked to convert to garden waste bins and the council is offering two sizes to suit most properties a 240 litre wheelie bin costing 30 a year or a 140 litre wheelie bin costing 27 a year. The move spells the end of compostable bags for most people, with residents being asked to use up their stocks of compostable bags by the end of June 2013. The bags will soon disappear from general sale. The council will only supply bags to properties which are not suitable for wheelie bins. They will cost 30 for up to 52 bags a year, which is less than it would currently cost for a similar number of bags at 3.50 for five. The council introduced compostable bags, made from potato starch, in 2010 to replace plastic sacks because they dont have to be thrown away and can be recycled into compost. Unfortunately some residents have found them difficult to get along with because they have started to compost too quickly. Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr Marion Ring said: It is important that we offer a reliable, convenient service for our residents. We have looked at services across the country and wheeled bins are by far the best method for collecting garden waste. If you would like to order a garden waste bin or subscribe to garden sack collections please call 01622 602600 or visit www.maidstone.gov.uk

COMPOST BIN OFFER

Maidstone council has teamed up with Getcomposting.com to provide compost bins with a recommended retail price of 39 for just 16 plus delivery. And if you buy one you can get another one half price. Every gardener should consider investing in a water butt too. On average 85,000 litres of rainwater falls on the average house roof. Collect it in a water butt for use in the garden and if you are on a water meter it will save you money. Water butt kits are available from 28.95 and come complete with a stand, tap and rain diverter kit. The buyone-get-one- half-price offer is also available on water butts. To order or for more information on compost bins and water butts, call 0844 571 4444 or visit www.maidstone.getcomposting.com.

New code of conduct for councillors

Maidstone council has adopted the Kent Code of Conduct which aims to introduce common standards across all tiers of local government in the county. Cllr Eric Hotson, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said: "It sets out comprehensive and transparent standards of behaviour for all councillors, and new procedures for dealing with any complaints about breaches of the code. The Kent code was established after the Government abolished the national Standards Board regime and the model code of conduct for all council members in England. In its drive for localism, the government has established a new policy on codes of conduct which gives responsibility for establishing a new code and the procedure for monitoring compliance with it, to each local authority. The Kent code has been adopted by most councils in Kent, including some parish councils in Maidstone Borough. As the code and its associated procedures settle in, they will be reviewed regularly and, as appropriate, improved and developed; said Cllr Hotson.

Maidstone Borough Council

Dannys dash

Danny Wright (right) and Oliver Burrows at the finals of the Maidstones got talent competition 2012 at Mote Park Picture by Howard Marsh

Police and Crime Commissioner elections

On Thursday 15 November 2012 new elections are taking place in England and Wales (excluding London). On this date you will be asked to vote for a Police and Crime Commissioner. The police and crime commissioner is a new role that will replace your local police authority. Police and crime commissioners will not run the police, but will be responsible for holding the police to account for the public. They will be able to: Produce a police and crime plan setting out local policing priorities. Set the local policing budget and decide how money will be spent. Appoint chief constables and remove them where needed. Information booklet In late October, every household in England and Wales (excluding London) will receive a booklet explaining more about these elections and how to fill in your ballot paper. Look out for the booklet coming through your door.

A frantic dash across town summed up the remarkable impact that the arrival of the Olympic Torch had on the people of Maidstone. Danny Wright made the dash from Leeds Castle to Mote Park on the evening the torch arrived, but his efforts were inspired not by dreams of athletic glory but by artistic ambitions. Danny was one of the cast members who wowed the audience with the global premier of A River Runs Through to celebrate the arrival of the torch at Leeds Castle, and his sprint to Mote Park was so that he could then take part in the final of Maidstones Got Talent, held as part of a successful community concert that same evening. The dash was well worth it, as he and Oliver Burrows, who stood in for Dannys usual partner, emerged as the winners of the over-16s category with their comedy dance act. His effort summed up the way Maidstone Borough Council used the visit of the torch relay not just to inspire dreams of sporting glory but also to create a much wider cultural legacy. I had just 45 minutes to get off stage, drive to Mote Park through the traffic, get changed, find Oliver and dash to the stage just in time for our performance, said Danny. It was worth the effort, though, and I am really impressed with the way Maidstone took the opportunity to broaden the appeal of the Olympics to focus on art and culture as well. Earlier in the evening the 8,000-plus crowd at Leeds Castle had greeted the performance of A River Runs Through which told the history of the town in music and song - with huge applause. The work, by established composer Edmund Jolliffe, covered key events such as the Battle of Maidstone, the discovery of the Iguanodon fossil and the growth of industries such as paper making and brewing.

Cold calling zones

Maidstone and District Neighbourhood Watch Association, Kent Police and Kent Trading Standards are looking to set up Maidstone boroughs first cold calling control zone in Allington. If residents want to proceed with the scheme they will be given information on how to deal with bogus callers and rogue traders, along with a door/window sticker and road signs. Cold calling control zones have proved to be a great success in other areas around the country. Residents are more aware of how to tackle unknown callers at the door, and utility companies recognise a need for good practice when operating in the area. For more information about Neighbourhood Watch, please contact Suzanne Daniell on 01622 604 395 for an information pack.

Registering to vote
This year the Government has instructed that the new Electoral Register has to be published on 16 October 2012. This is to make sure that the register used for the Police and Crime Commissioners elections is as up to date as possible. The annual canvass started earlier and every property in the Borough received a Voter Registration Form 2012 in June. There was a good response with many residents helping us to save money by returning the first form. Reminders have gone out to everyone else. If you have not registered to date you must return a completed form by 8 October 2012 to be included on the new Electoral Register. If you fail to register you will not be entitled to vote and you will have trouble obtaining a mortgage, opening a bank account or getting credit. If, for some reason, you have not registered by 8 October 2012 you must contact Registration Services as soon as possible on 01622 602007.

News from the MUSEUM

Matisse at Maidstone museum

The French painter, sculptor and designer, Henri Matisse (18691954) was one of the 20th century's most influential artists. His vibrant works are celebrated for their extraordinary richness and luminosity of colour. Matisse: Drawing with Scissors, features 35 lithographic prints of the famous cut-outs, produced in the last four years of his life, when the artist was confined to his bed, and includes many of his iconic images, such as The Snail and the Blue Nudes. The Hayward Touring exhibition from the Southbank Centre, London on behalf of Arts Council England will be at the museum from October 20 - November 18.

News in brief
Maidstone Art Society exhibition
Traditional and contemporary works by 45 local artists. On display until Thursday, October 11. Free.

Tea, Talk and Walk

Writers Who Inspired Tuesday, October 9, Commerce and Agriculture Tuesday, October 16 and Maidstone and Art Tuesday, October 23. Meet at the Bentlif library at 11:30am for refreshments and talk, followed by a town walk led by a qualified guide. Adults 5, concessions 3.

Museum funding to help children

Maidstone Museum has won Arts Council funding to help more children learn about history. The museum, which houses impressive collections of Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Japanese artefacts, is one of just 10 museums across the country to be offered the funding and will be teaming up with the British Museum to deliver more education packages for children. As well as school visits, which make use of an education room within the 3.6m new wing of the St Faiths Street building, the museum already organises activities for children and encourages families to visit. Simon Lace, Museums and Heritage Manager at Maidstone Borough Council, said: This funding will allow us to develop fabulous new activities for children and young people, increasing audiences for our amazing collections and using the fantastic new spaces created in the museums new East Wing extensions. The museum is thrilled at the prospect of working with the British Museum and Artswork, the youth arts development agency, to engage thousands of children from across the county. Year 5 children from East Borough Primary School in Vinters Road visited the museum as the Arts Council announced the funding last month.

Author Talk and Book Signing

Saturday 20 October, 10.30am12.30pm. Historian, broadcaster and former Maidstone schoolboy, Dr Marc Morris, will give an illustrated talk about his new book, The Norman Conquest. Discover why the invasion of 1066 was the single most important event in English history. Free.

Big Draw event: drawing with line and scissors

Saturday, October 27. 10am-5pm Be inspired by the museums Matisse exhibition. For all ages Free.

Museums Christmas fair

Saturday, November 3. 10am-4pm Local crafts, cards, handmade decorations, homewares, jewellery and gifts will be on sale in the museum. Free entry.

Regimental Roadshow
Saturday, November 3. 10am-4pm An opportunity to get hands on with real artefacts, dress up and get your medals assessed.

Half term at the Museum

Batty about Bats Mon, Oct 29 Join us to make spooky bat wings, suitable for any aspiring Batman or Batgirl. Witches and Warlock Hats Tue, Oct 30 Make a Halloween hat and decorate it with magical accessories. Halloween Puppets Wed, Oct 31 Create a dancing skeleton puppet to entertain your friends and family. Matisse Silhouettes Thur, Nov 1 Inspired by our Matisse exhibition, make your own paper collage to hang at home. Christmas Tree Decorations Fri, Nov 2 Make traditional Christmas decorations. Sessions start at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30pm, Suitable for 4+. All events 2.50 per child, except Matisse Silhouettes which is 1 per child.

Mini Gifts - badges, mirrors & keyrings

Saturday, November 3. Make badges, mirrors or keyring for Christmas gifts. 50p to 1.50 per item. For all ages.

Tiny Talk Time

The Knight Who Took All Day Wednesday, November 7. Mogs Christmas Wednesday, December 5.

Maidstone Borough Council

Council Tax discount review

Maidstone Borough Council is carrying out a Council Tax review to make sure everyone who is entitled to receive the single persons discount is doing so. Council Tax bills are calculated on the assumption that two or more adults (people over the age of 18) are resident in the property. If only one adult occupies a property, then they are entitled to a 25% single person discount on their Council Tax. The council, with the help of Capita Local Government Services, will be reviewing households from October onwards to make sure people are paying the right amount. The review will be carried out by post, telephone interviews and by matching data against credit reference agencies. The review is being undertaken to ensure that customers receive discounts they are entitled to, and because the council is committed to maintaining as low a Council Tax as possible for all its residents. Anyone in receipt of a discount should call 01622 602003 if their circumstances change.

Free football training

Young people can improve their football skills with free training sessions run by Kick Kent. Sessions are currently held on Wednesdays at Park Wood, Heather House, Bicknor Road, Park Wood (5pm to 7pm) and Shepway Green, Cumberland Avenue, Maidstone from 7.30pm to 9pm, and on Thursdays at South Park, Armstrong Road, Tovil from 5.30pm to 7pm. For more information contact Ian Summers on 07939 470581.

Changing place
A large toilet and wetroom with specialised changing facilities is helping disabled people in Maidstone keep clean. The Changing Place toilet at Maidstone Gateway includes a hoist and a height adjustable changing bench to enable people with mobility problems to shower and change, with the help of a carer. As well as being available to disabled people, it can be used by people who have problems accessing their own shower or bath facilities. The facility has room for the person and up to two carers. For more information, visit the Changing Place website: http://www.changing-places.org/the_ campaign/what_are_ changing_places_toilets_.aspx

Lets dance
Shoppers in Maidstone were treated to a spectacle as the Shishi Odori dancers from Japan entertained crowds in Jubilee Square on 7 September. The dancers were in the UK for the Thames Festival in London but made a detour to Maidstone, where the towns museum hosts an impressive collection of artefacts from Japanese history.

Search for sports stars

The Youth Sport Achievement Awards celebrate sport and Maidstone is now on the hunt for the stars of 2012. The awards showcase local talent, dedication and achievement in sport from the previous year and recognise the achievements of young people aged 21 and under, as well as adult volunteers and coaches. Last years event saw 100 nominations. The event is now in its 22nd year. To find out how to nominate someone, contact the Maidstone Borough Council community development team on 01622 602222 or email communitydevelopment@maidstone.gov.uk

Boxing lessons
Young people who were inspired by boxing in the recent 2012 Olympics, can try it for themselves at Contender Boxing lessons. The sessions are held across the borough as part of a Maidstone Youth Action Partnerships initiative to

increase youth activities and to inspire a nation, building on the sporting legacy from 2012. Sessions currently take place for 16 to 24 year olds at Headcorn Scout Hut in Ulcombe Road, Headcorn on Tuesdays, from 4.30pm to 6.30pm, at Howard de Walden Childrens Centre in Bluett Street, Maidstone on Tuesdays from 7pm to

8pm for young people aged 16 to 21, and at Heather House, Bicknor Road, Park Wood on Thursdays from 4pm to 5pm for 11 to 16 year olds. Young people can simply turn up at the sessions to have a go. For more information contact James Cullen on 07872 456033.

Maidstone Borough Council

Maidstone signs army covenant

A historic agreement has been signed between the Armed Forces and Maidstone Borough Council. The Armed Forces Community Covenant is a new initiative in which members of the Armed Forces and representatives of the local communities in which they live formally cement relationships and pledge to work together to ensure harmonious relations and greater cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel Ed Robinson, Commanding Officer 36 Engineer Regiment (Search), who signed on behalf of the Armed Forces, said: "We have always enjoyed very good relations with the community here in Maidstone and are extremely grateful for the support we receive. This covenant represents our commitment to maintaining and strengthening that relationship in the future." The signing came a week before a large contingent from 36 Engineer Regiment (Search) deployed to Afghanistan where they played a key role in developing the Afghan National Security Forces and keeping the deployed force safe from the threat posed by improvised explosive devices.

The Mayor, Rodd Nelson-Gracie and Lt Col Ed Robinson signed the covenant on behalf of the council and the armed forces.

Hospice shop with a difference

The Heart of Kent Hospice shop which recently opened in King Street, Maidstone, is selling secondhand wedding dresses, with the quality of a boutique sales experience. The shop also sells clothes, furniture and bric a brac and has a music department and coffee shop. The bridal area provides brides with somewhere special to buy a dress, with comfortable areas for the bridal party to wait. The shop welcomes donations phone 01622 609143 for information, and 01622 791142 for furniture donation.

Consultation thanks
Maidstone council is thanking local people who took part in its recent consultation on the boroughs Core Strategy and Integrated Transport Strategy. The documents set out the planning and transport framework for the area until 2026 and in developing the strategies the council has sought to address local needs, especially for housing and economic development, with an emphasis on achieving continuing and higher levels of economic prosperity whilst at the same time protecting the environment and landscape that helps to continue to make the borough of Maidstone a special place to live and work in. Now the consultation is over, the council will be progress to the next stage of adopting the plans, taking into consideration views raised in the consultation period.

Help for diners

A new food hygiene scheme is helping diners in Maidstone make informed choices about where they eat. The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme is a national initiative which allows people to check how clean their local restaurants, cafes, hotels, pubs and takeaways are. Premises are marked from zero to five, with a zero rating meaning urgent improvements are needed, and a score of five showing the business has very good hygiene standards. The rating is not a guide to food quality. It is worked out after the councils food officer from the environmental health department has inspected the premises and looked at: how hygienically the food is handled how it is prepared, cooked, cooled and stored the condition of the structure of the buildings, including cleanliness, equipment and other facilities how the business manages and records what it does to make sure the food is safe. The first certificates and window stickers have now been issued to food premises in the borough and although the business does not have to display them, it is likely that the best ones will choose to do so. This means now is the time to start to look out for the striking green and black certificates and window stickers. The ratings can be found on the Food Standards Agency website: food.gov.uk/ratings from October onwards. So far certificates and stickers have been sent to about 700 of the 910 food premises across the borough.

Maidstone Borough Council

Green Flags flying

Clare Park and Whatman Park have both won Green Flag awards for the next 12 months to show that they are amongst the best in the country. Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure Services, Cllr John A. Wilson, said: I am absolutely delighted; the flags give a clear message to visitors and residents that we take pride in our parks. The awards are a national recognition for the achievements of all those whose hard work has created these fantastic places for all to enjoy. Parks have a huge positive impact on peoples lives, providing places to play and relax as well as bringing generations together. Whatman Park, which is part of the Maidstone Millennium River Park, has been awarded the green flag for the third year running. Half a mile from the town centre it has a large adventure play area, a separate Jolly Rodger area for children, modern sculpture, wildlife and pond dipping areas. The River Stage, open air performance area plays host to many events throughout the year. Clare Park has won the award for a fifth year running. Facilities include tennis courts, a play area, a multi-use games area, a bowls green and a wildlife area, all within an historic parkland setting. Cllr Wilson added: The Green Flag award scheme is the benchmark.

Invest in success
A new publication launched by Maidstone council showcases a range of residential, leisure and retail investments which are helping the borough become a better place to live and do business. Maidstone: Our Investment Success Story promotes the town and surrounding area as a place to invest and do business, as well as a popular place in which to live and work. If youd like a copy of the brochure, which looks at town centre regeneration, commercial success, sustainable growth, 21st century learning, the boroughs cultural offer and the changing landscape of the riverside, visit www.locateinmaidstone.co.uk

Cobtree Park is open for play

Nine items of childrens play equipment, costing 65,000, have been installed at Cobtree Manor Park, Forstal Road, Maidstone. The new equipment includes - a double cableway, basket swing, spinning dish, see-saw, climbing frame, rockers, an agility trail and a giant rope swing. The new equipment is the first part of a major investment by the Cobtree Charity Committee in the park. Cllr John Wilson, Chairman of the Committee said: Maidstones parks and open spaces keep getting better. We have just finished our 2.6m Heritage Lottery funded restoration of Mote Park and work has already started on a 1m investment by the Cobtree charity in new facilities at Cobtree Manor Park. Cobtree is going to be one of the best family days out in the area. Other improvements will include paths, a new caf and a visitor centre, and next Easter we are adding a magnificent new walled play area. The new custom built play area will have seven metre high towers, large slides, lookout towers and wobbly walkways. It will have a Zoo theme because the park was home to Maidstone Zoo for a number of years.

Above: An artists impression of the new play area.

Metal matters
The Kent Waste Partnership of Kent councils and Alupro, the Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation, will be launching a Kent wide campaign to promote metal packaging recycling. Our residents can recycle metal packaging in their green recycling bin or black recycling box. There is plenty for us to recycle. The average UK household uses an estimated 600 food cans and 380 drink cans every year. We also use 27 aerosols, for everything from furniture polish to shaving foam, around 182 foil trays for pies and ready meals, and get through a staggering 144 metres of household foil for wrapping and storing food. All are made of metals, aluminium and steel, and 100% recyclable. The recycling process is very efficient. In the UK aluminium drink cans and aerosols can be recycled in a closed loop so used cans are made back into metal which is used to make more drink cans. At the recycling plant the cans are shredded and hot air is blown through them to remove the decoration. The shreds are then melted in a furnace and cast into ingots. These ingots are then rolled into thin aluminium sheet which is used to make more cans using only 5% of the energy needed to make aluminium from raw materials.

Maidstone Borough Council

Keeping fit and healthy eating can have a positive effect on health and wellbeing. Maidstone Borough Council offers support to people living in Maidstone to help them meet their weight and fitness goals and stay healthy, working with funding from the NHS . Here we look at tips for good mental health, support available to reach and maintain a healthy weight, and facts about alcohol.

Healthy weight help at hand

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is good for the mind and body whatever your age. There are a number of weight management programmes run across the borough, and many of them are free or available at very small cost.

Go for It is a free family and childrens weight management

and healthy lifestyle programme for those aged 5 to 17 years. For further information call Jill Maynard at Zeroth on 01622 749564.

Weight for Life is a 10 week adult weight management

programme with a holistic lifestyle approach. Sessions are just 1 per visit. For further information call Jill Maynard at Zeroth on 01622 749564.

Weight for It is a free 10 week

weight loss programme for adults with a fun and friendly weekly weigh-in with diet and nutritional advice. Call the community development team 01622 602222 to book on the sessions which start on Tuesday 9 October at Loose Pavilion from 3.30pm to 4.30pm, and on Thursday 11 October at Sutton Valence Village Hall from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

Adult Weight Management Programme offers gym,

swimming and exercise class sessions which are just 1 per visit, with free weekly diet and nutrition seminars and weigh-in. For further information call Maidstone Leisure Centre 0845 155 2277. For more information on any of the programmes email healthy.living@maidstone.gov.uk

Wellbeing isnt all about eating the right things and exercising... although theres no doubt theyre both important. Mental health also plays an important part in our wellbeing and with World Mental Health Day on 10 October, weve come up with some simple tips to help you stay happy, fit and well.

Ways to wellbeing

Connect
Evidence suggests that feeling close to and valued by other people is a fundamental human need. So why not: T talk to someone rather than emailing or texting T put aside five minutes to ask someone how they are and listen fully.

look at the councils website for local sports clubs and sign up for a new activity see www.maidstone.gov.uk/sports

Take notice
Being aware of whats happening around you and your environment and reliving the moment enhances your wellbeing. So why not: T write a list of happy memories and put it on your fridge T have a clear the clutter day.

So why not: T learn a new word through reading a book or newspaper T sign up to learn something new at www.kentadulteducation.co.uk

Give
Evidence shows 87% of people agree they feel good when they carry out an act of kindness for someone. So why not : T help an elderly neighbour carry their shopping T volunteer in your spare time rather than sitting on sofa in front of the TV see www.vam-online.org.uk

Be active
Regular exercise is associated with reducing depression and anxiety. So why not: T go for a walk at lunchtime T contact the community development team at Maidstone Borough Council or

Learn
Continued learning helps your self esteem and encourages a more active life.

Alcohol facts

Alcohol Awareness Week runs from 19 to 25 November and since a recent survey revealed many people are unaware of the serious health risks associated with drinking regularly, weve produced this alcohol fact file. T Problem drinking and dependence can cause a range of problems such as family conflict and disruption, job loss and financial problems that are likely in themselves to result in increased levels of anxiety and depression. T Alcohol dependence is one of the main risk factors for suicide.

T You should spread your units evenly T Drinking regularly increases your across the week and avoid binge risk of developing breast cancer. drinking. T Women can drink up to 2-3 units of T Drinking too much alcohol can alcohol per day and should not drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week. cause many health problems including cirrhosis of the liver, T Men can drink up to 3-4 units of alcohol stomach ulcers, malnutrition , high per day and should not blood pressure, stroke and mental drink more than 21 units of alcohol per week. health problems.

For information on services available to help you drink sensibly, please visit www.maidstone.gov.uk/community_and_living/ substance_misuse.aspx

Whats On
Michael Morpurgos - Farm Boy
Monday, October 15, Hazlitt Theatre, 6pm. Tickets 12 concs 8
Presented by New Perspectives Theatre Company and adapted and directed by Daniel Buckroyd. The compelling sequel to the award-winning War Horse is a moving account of the changing face of the English countryside and a beautifully-crafted reminder that stories really can reach out across the generations. Following criticallyacclaimed runs at both the 2010 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the 2011 Brits Off Broadway Festival in New York, plus a hugely successful UK tour, this magical tale of the bonds linking grandfather to grandson and ultimately both to the land has once more been brought to life by New Perspectives Theatre Company in their delightful touring show combining drama, storytelling and original music. Morpurgo is nothing if not a master story-teller **** Daily Telegraph Running Time: 65 mins (no interval). Age 7+ Years

The Hazlitt Youth Theatre present Honk!

Tuesday, October 30 Saturday November 3. Hazlitt Theatre, 7.45pm. Tickets 9 (Tue, Oct, 30 - pay what you can preview night).
Spring has come to the duckyard. Drake, the mallard duck, and his long suffering partner Ida, await the birth of a new brood, but the nest seems to contain one inordinately large egg this year. Sure enough, it cracks open to reveal an ugly chick nothing like his siblings, who makes a strange honk sound instead of the expected quack! Based on Hans Christian Anderson's classic tale, The Ugly Duckling, HONK! is an enchanting comic musical packed with sparkling wit, a memorable score and sends the message that it is ok to be different! By arrangement with Josef Weinburger Ltd. Music by George Stiles Book and lyrics by Anthony Drewe

Wind in the Willows

Friday, November 2. Exchange Studio, 11am & 2pm. Tickets 8 concs 6
Riverbank Productions presents a lively and faithful musical adaptation of Kenneth Grahame's The Wind In The Willows, a timeless tale of life, sunshine, running water, woodlands, dusty roads and winter firesides. This production features a fantastic musical score with catchy original sing-a-long songs, four talented actors, some cute and cuddly animal puppets, a caravan, a car, a barge, a train and horse! Come along and meet Ratty, Badger, Mole and of course the reckless Mr Toad!

To book tickets go online at www.hazlittartscentre.co.uk or ring the Box Office 01622 758611

MAKE IT MAIDSTONE
MAKE IT PROSPEROUS
USEFUL NUMBERS
Citizens Advice Bureau 01622 752420 or 01622 757882 Council Tax 01622 602003 Housing benefit and general housing advice 01622 602557 National debtline freephone 0808 808 4000 Heating and insulation grants - 01622 602470 First time buyers grants 01622 602470 Energy Saving Trust 0800 512 012 Concessionary travel 08458 247802 Jobcentre Plus 01622 702700
Maidstone Borough Council is working to fight the effects of the recession and bring prosperity to the borough. We help residents with housing and council tax benefits, heating and insulation grants, home improvement grants, free bus travel and by support for organisations which offer money advice.

Maidstone is championing business

Maidstone has a new business champion who will be supporting cabinet member Cllr Malcolm Greer to improve the local economy. Maidstone Borough Council Assistant Director Steve Goulette will help Cllr Greer, the cabinet member for Economic Development and Commercial Services, to deliver the councils top priority of improving the local economy, with hopes of rising employment, catering for a range of skill sets to meet local demands. The councils Economic Development Strategy is designed to support this priority, and other work planned includes giving a boost to the local economy by encouraging visitors to the town, Hazlitt Arts Centre, Maidstone Museums, tourism, the Kent Conference Bureau and Maidstone Market. Cllr Greer explains: Steve is an experienced and highly capable senior officer. I am delighted that he will be supporting my portfolio by working with existing local businesses to support their existing operation and helping their development ambitions. I have also asked him to be our link with inward investment companies. Steve Goulette is looking forward to the new role, which he will undertake alongside his existing responsibilities as Assistant Director for Environment and Regulatory Services. Maidstone is the County Town of Kent and a great place to do business. We want success for all our existing businesses but we recognise we need to continue to attract new ones, particularly in these challenging times, he said. Maidstone borough has the highest employment rate in the county at over 80%.

High Street regeneration

Town Team ready for action

Maidstone has its own Town Team and its ready to make the town centre an even better place. The Town Team has been set up following government recommendations from the Mary Portas High Street Review and welcomes suggestions and support from people passionate about the town centre. Maidstone Borough Council applied for government funding to be one of the first pilot towns to run a town team but although it was unsuccessful with the bid, the enthusiasm of groups across the town was so great that the council has decided to set it up anyway. The Town Team is to be run by the council in conjunction with Maidstone Town Maidstones High Street regeneration project will be completed with the last phase of works in the Lower High Street. Work on the 1.7 million scheme could start later on in the year and be completed early in 2013. The final design is yet to be agreed. Centre Management, and involves the Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, Kent County Council, the Environment Agency, landlords of The Mall and Fremlin Walk, and a number of local groups with an interest in the town centre. Small businesses, voluntary groups, independent traders and residents are also involved. The Town Team is currently looking at what it would like Maidstone to look like in the future, with the aim of it becoming a main destination town. Its also identifying the key priorities for the town. The next Town Team meeting will be held on 22 October from 6.30pm at the Town Hall. If youd like to play a part in how the town centre develops, contact Jennifer Hunt at Maidstone Borough Council on 01622 602471 or jenniferhunt@maidstone.gov.uk to book a place or share ideas.

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Maidstone Borough Council

If youve ever lost your dog in Maidstone, the chances are Jeff Pedrick has helped you find it. Jeff joined Maidstone Borough Council in 1998 as dog warden after a career in the army as a dog trainer. His current role as Senior Warden and Animal Welfare Officer still involves working with dogs, as well as many other animals...including a zebra! Jeff is a dad of three and has two grandchildren who also keep him busy. Borough Update spent some time on the road with him to find out about his role.
Some facts about Jeffs work: - The council deals with around 1,000 complaints about animals each year. - Over 40 licenses are issued annually to animal establishments such as kennels, catteries and pet shops. - Failing to clear up after your dog could land you with a fine of upto 1000. - Maidstone has 350 dog bins and lots more litter bins for disposal of dog waste. - Around 120 tonnes of dog mess is disposed of from the bins each year. - Licences are issued to six riding schools across the borough. - If stray dogs are picked up, they are dealt with by Viking Oak Kennels in Seven Mile Lane, Borough Green, on behalf of the council. How did you get into working with our customers as a dog warden? When I came out of the army I knew I wanted to work with people and animals and being a dog warden seemed the perfect job. What do you like about your job? I love working with animals, and people of course,

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Jeffs job includes

- Reuniting owners with their dogs after theyve been picked up as strays. - Licensing pet shops, kennels and catteries, stables and dangerous wild animals (including the pet zebra). - Dealing with complaints of barking dogs, dog fouling, cruelty, dangerous dogs. - Giving advice to residents if wild animals such as foxes or pigeons are a nuisance. - Issuing fixed penalty tickets for dog fouling. - Managing a 24 hour stray dog contract.
and I like the fact I get out and about in the borough and can help people with advice on looking after animals. What does good customer service mean to you? It means understanding the customer and making sure that the work I do benefits the customer and the council.

Borough Update
This is your council newsletter, produced up to four times a year in the Downs Mail newspaper. It is written, edited and designed by the council's communications team, Maidstone House, King Street, Maidstone, Kent ME15 6JQ. Email: pr@maidstone.gov.uk. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome. It is typeset by AW design and printed by Newbury News.

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Whats On!

To find out whats on in Maidstone Borough visit www.tour-maidstone.com