KentOnline

A Faversham couple have spoken about their decision to pull their children out of school and travel the world.James and Liberty Carew have decided to swap their traditional 9 to 5 jobs for real-world experiences across the globe.Also in today's podcast, the owner of a Kent animal sanctuary hit by bird flu, fears she may have to find 16-thousand pounds to have other animals there tested for the virus.More than 60 birds at Happy Pants Ranch in Newington near Sittingbourne had to be culled at the end of last month.Villagers in Hadlow say plans for hundreds of homes are going to 'take the soul' out of their community.An application for 116 homes and a community car park on agricultural land in Court Lane have been submitted, following another application for 100 properties on the edge of the village.Bosses at a Kent Christmas tree farm say the quality on offer this year is better than ever.It follows general warnings we could see "gappy" trees this years after growers battled low rainfall over summer and mild temperatures in autumn - hear from the owner of Hole Park Christmas Trees in Rolvenden.And in sport, the Gillingham squad have been playing Traitors as part of a bit of team bonding.They're doing challenges to win shields and trying to work out who's a faithful. Hear from defender Remeao Hutton and manager Gareth Ainsworth who's been chatting about tomorrow's game against Barnet. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The parents of a Kent baby who died after choking on pasta at nursery have described a six-figure settlement as "the end of a long road".Nine-month old Oliver Steeper was fed chopped up penne bolognese by a member of staff at Jelly Beans in Ashford - despite not being weaned onto solid food. Oliver's dad Lewis has told us how the battle for accountability has been really tough.Also in today's podcast, a couple who run a pub in Northfleet say they're having to leave after 16 years because of rising costs and financial pressures.Val and Janine Buzatu took on Ye Olde Leather Bottle in 2009, and became official licensees in 2020.A Kent councillor has criticised a Reform UK MP after he said it was 'insane' for some pupils to wear ear defenders in class.Richard Tice was asked in a press conference what should be done to tackle what he describes as the 'colossal overdiagnosis of children with conditions like adhd'.Helen Whitehead is Deputy Leader of Thanet District Council and was diagnosed with autism in her 30s. Hear what she had to say in response.And, Sir Mick Jagger's been back to his former school in Kent to mark the 25th anniversary of a performing arts centre named after him.The Rolling Stones legend went to Dartford Grammar while living in nearby Denver Road.The Mick Jagger centre cost £2 million to build and opened in 2000 - Sir Mick has been speaking to reporter Alan Smith. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Kent mum has told us how her son has been suffering from anxiety after being lured to a railway station car park and attacked.13-year-old Kian was punched and kicked by an older teenager after travelling by train from Appledore to Rye. Layla Sullivan has described the impact it's had and what she thinks of the punishment.Also in today's podcast, a change.org petition has been set up as part of our campaign calling for reforms to the Blue Badge system.We want cancer patients and those with short-term but serious mobility issues to qualify for one. Kent's MPs are in favour as are Medway Council, but the leader of Kent County Council has said it won't be implemented.As the COP30 climate conference draws to a close in Brazil this week, we've had some worrying news about insect populations in Kent.New data suggests they're continuing to decline. Hear from Paul Hetherington from BugLife.A campaign group in an historic Kent village are trying to raise £5,000 to help fight development plans.Proposals have been put in for 100 homes in Lower Street in Eastry which members of Eastry Says No say it amounts to "over-development".In sport, London City Lionesses forward Freya Godfrey has been called up by England.The 20-year-old from the Aylesford based club is included in the squad for friendly games against China and Ghana. Hear from England manager Sarina Wiegman. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

People living on a road in Sheerness say they are having sleepless nights and suffering 'horrendous noise' coming from a house being turned into an HMO.The podcast has been told work at the property on Alma Street has been going on for more than two months. Hear from a neighbour who claims it has also caused damage to her home.Also in today's episode, a Kent charity that supports young refugees has criticised the government's plans to overhaul the asylum system.Under proposals announced yesterday, most will have to wait 20 years to apply to settle here permanently.A Kent dad says children's lives are being put at risk due to a lack of pavement along a stretch of road in Sittingbourne.Daniel Thomas is calling for pavements to be installed on Highsted Road following a series of near misses. He's told our reporter there's been a lack of action since a nearby housing estate was finished in 2007.A Kent woman who became the legal guardian of 15 children at the age of 22 has been telling us how she's helping families in Tanzania.Letty McMaster travelled there on a gap year and ended up taking over an orphanage that would otherwise have closed down.And in sport, Gillingham's young players are in FA Youth Cup action tonight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A mum-of-four from Folkestone has described how she feared she was going to die after her jealous boyfriend put his hands around her throat and squeezed until she couldn't breathe.Gina Aiano has bravely described what happened after her attacker was jailed for 27 months.Also in today's podcast, a man from Faversham says there is a lack of dignity for patients receiving corridor care at a Kent hospital.Paul's mother is in her 80s and spent days on a trolley in a corridor behind the A&E department at the William Harvey in Ashford. Paul's been speaking to Kate about the conditions.Plastic pellets dumped in the sea by Southern Water have now washed up on the Kent coast.The biobeads are used in wastewater treatment and are believed to have come from a plant in Eastbourne. Folkestone and Hythe MP Tony Vaughan has shared a video about it on his socials.As COP30 continues in Brazil, bosses at a Kent college have told us they're making great progress towards being carbon neutral by 2030.£15.6 million is being spent on MidKent College's campuses in Medway and Maidstone.With Christmas not far away, our sister radio station kmfm have launched their Give a Gift campaign for 2025.They'll be hoping to deliver toys to children and young people across Kent who'll be spending Christmas in hospital, living in care or facing difficult circumstances.In sport, it was a point for Gillingham in league two over the weekend.It finished 2-2 in front of the TV cameras against Crawley Town at Priestfield - hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth.And, it's hoped a major redevelopment at one of Kent's most prestigious golf courses could see it host the Ryder Cup.The multi-million-pound project at The London Golf Club in Sevenoaks will see a five-star hotel, spa, sports pavilion and luxury lodges built in the coming years. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dozens of people have been left thousands of pounds out of pocket after a shed company in Lenham suddenly shut down.Some have staged a protest outside Sheds and Shelters Limited's headquarters on Ashford Road - demanding answers. Hear from our reporter Sean McPolin who has been following the story.Also on today's podcast, there'll be disruption to NHS services in Kent today as resident doctors begin a five-day strike.They were previously known as junior doctors, and are involved in the day-to-day running of hospitals.Meantime, pregnant women in Kent are being urged to get a vaccination for RSV to help protect their newborn this winter.It's as stats show 6 in 10 babies will contract the respiratory virus before their first birthday.Kent's police and crime commissioner says his priorities until 2028 remain the same, despite being told his role is being scrapped.The government says getting rid of PCC's across England and Wales will save money which will be invested into neighbourhood policing.Legend from Gladiators is going to help bring part of an abandoned sports centre in Kent back to life.Matt Morsia, who lives in Hythe, has revealed plans to transform the gym at Folkestone Sports Centre.Ella Eyre has been telling our sister radio station kmfm how good it feels to be back with new music, ten years after her debut album."Everything, In Time" is a self-curated album that sees her step into soul, R&B and retro funk. And in sport, Gillingham welcome Crawley Town to Priestfield in league two this weekend.They'll be hoping to make in back-to-back wins after a 1-nil victory over Bristol Rovers last Saturday. Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth.And, an event's being held in Maidstone this weekend aiming to provide more support for visually-impaired runners.Specially-trained guides will be available to help those who are blind or partially-sighted at the Park Run at Mote Park. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A hearing has been told how a 95-year-old man from Herne Bay stabbed his partner of 30 years while suffering from delirium, days after being discharged from hospital.Ernest Gray killed Margaret Day - who was 86 - at their home in Broomfield Road in November 2023.Also in today's podcast, we've been hearing from a Kent supermarket worker as a new survey shows more than 70% have suffered verbal abuse.Retail trade union Usdaw say nearly half of workers have been threatened and 9% have actually been assaulted. In the run up to Christmas, one worker has shared his experience.There are calls for urgent action from tech companies as figures show a rise in online grooming crimes in Kent.The NSPCC says cases have reached a record high - with 298 recorded in the county last year. We've been speaking to the charity.A Sittingbourne woman who was told she was too young to have breast cancer has created a bucket list after being told the disease is now terminal.Shanice Bennett from Sittingbourne was diagnosed when she was just 23, three years later, the cancer has spread to her bones, lungs and liver.A Maidstone dad says his street is like a "lorry formula one" - with HGVs constantly breaking the 30-mile-per-hour speed limit.Luke Knightly-Jones moved to a house in Heath Road in Boughton Monchelsea in August, he's been speaking to reporter Elli Hodgson.And, a former student at the University of Kent has been shortlisted for a prestigious TikTok award.Joy Anokwuru covers all things entertainment, celebrity news and trending topics in her viral videos shared with her 45,000 followers.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A car dealer is still in limbo more than four months after a wall collapsed onto his forecourt, leaving him hundreds of thousands of pounds out of pocket.Tom Bowles, who runs the business in Sittingbourne, said his “heart sank” when he arrived to find many of his vehicles had been crushed by the fallen rubble on July 2.Also in today's podcast, the mother of a 16-year-old girl killed in a car crash almost two years ago says she feels her daughter has been “forgotten about” as the long-running police investigation continues.Alisha Marie Ponter died after the car she was a passenger in overturned in Maidstone last February. Details of two garden settlements totalling 7,000 homes have been released for public consultation - despite campaigners calling for delays. They include one for a 5,000-home settlement at Lenham Heath to be known as Heathlands, and one for a 2,000-home settlement at Lidsing, on the border with the Medway Towns. In football, Gareth Ainsworth says Gillingham's exit from the EFL Trophy at the hands of big-spending Wycombe Wanderers was a learning experience for everyone.Wycombe won the game at Priestfield 3-0 to eliminate the Gills from the competition and take second spot in the group.And as we make our way through Movember, the KentOnline Podcast has been hearing about the ongoing impact of Covid on young people's mental health.Students at the Uni of Kent have launched a campaign to raise money and awareness by rowing 700 kilometres this month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More than 50 couples who had their dream weddings cancelled after a popular Kent venue went under with just 62p in the bank will not receive any of their money back.It's after the Blazing Donkey Country Hotel fell into administration in September owing more than £380,000 to those booked to be married there.Also in today's podcast, Reform UK council leader Linden Kemkaran has raised fears that an upcoming BBC documentary may “splice together” things she has said to “make her look bad”.The leader of Kent County Council posted told social media followers this morning she has a “genuine dilemma”.It's a busy time for Reform UK, after a union accused Kent County Council's leadership of creating a “threat to public safety” after councillor suspensions left the fire service's governing body in “disarray”.Five Reform representatives who were members of the Kent and Medway Fire Authority have been removed from their positions following a leaked video of a council meeting. A Kent chemotherapy nurse is hoping to secure a debate in parliament on lowering the age women are first called for a mammogram.At the moment it's between the age of 50 and 53 with routine screening every three years to 71 – you can hear from Gemma Reeves who's started a petition. And in football, Gillingham's progress in this season's EFL Trophy depends on the result of tonight's game against the manager's former club.Gareth Ainsworth's side need a result against Wycombe Wanderers at Priestfield when they take on the League 1 side in the third and final group stage fixture. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two men who left another man with a “broken face” after it was claimed he had made inappropriate comments to children have been spared jail.A court was told the attackers repeatedly kicked and punched their victim in a Lydd street on learning he had supposedly remarked he "liked little boys" and made a lewd gesture. Also in today's podcast, an American-themed eatery loved by TV production companies has reopened following a major revamp.The Detling Diner closed almost 18 months ago following a devastating fire which started in its stockroom due to an electrical fault.People living in Folkestone will start to see interactive signs around the town raising awareness of the risk of flash flooding. It's a part of Kent that's been known to flood, particularly around the Pent Stream in heavy downpours. In a time where house-building targets are increasing, KentOnline is asking the question is enough being done to transform empty properties?Reporter Elli Hodgson spoke to property developer Barry Upton about how the planning system has gone “too far” and what changes are needed.And in sport, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth dedicated Saturday's win to the coaching staff who have held the fort in his absence.Ainsworth had missed the previous four league games while recovering from major heart surgery, but was back watching in the flesh on Saturday, as his team ended a seven-game winless run. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It looks like a derelict hotel on the A2 near Gravesend will be turned into a petrol station and M&S food store.Plans for a £10 million redevelopment of the Tollgate site have been recommended for approval.Also in today's podcast, a Kent turkey farmer has told us it's 'business as usual' despite restrictions coming in to try and stop the spread of bird flu.There has been at least one confirmed case in the county - with more than 60 birds having to be culled at the Happy Pants Ranch near Sittingbourne.Councils across Kent and Medway have released five different suggestions of what local council reform could look like.New maps show how the county could be split up into unitary authorities. The leader of Medway Council, Vince Maple, has been talking us through them.Work is underway to convert an old toilet block on Sheppey into a brand new event space.Plans were originally submitted by the boss of Elmley Nature Reserve back in 2017 - but it was delayed by Covid.And in sport,  the Gillingham manager has revealed more about his heart surgery, and why it couldn't wait.Gareth Ainsworth was found to have a murmur during a routine health check.You can also hear from striker Seb Palmer-Houlden who has been chatting ahead of the weekend's game at Bristol Rovers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A couple are getting a £1,200 refund for furniture that did not arrive after threatening to take The Range to court.It's after they ordered four electric recliner armchairs from the retailer in September – some parts arrived two days later but other pieces didn't show up at all. Also in today' podcast, a lorry driver who had more than 40 migrants in the back of his trailer is among several caught this year amid a spike in arrests in Kent.You can hear from the National Crime Agency who's warning hauliers are being targeted by ruthless gangs offering them thousands of pounds to smuggle people in and out of the country.A secondary school in Sevenoaks that has started locking its students' mobile phones away during the day says children are “talking” and “running around” again since its introduction.You can hear from bosses at the school and from students who've been telling us what impact the smartphone ban has had.Parents in Kent are being urged to learn basic first aid skills before taking their children to events this festive season. St John Ambulance says it's important to prepare now for any activities you might have planned over the next couple of months. And, the female bison who led the wild herd in woodland near Canterbury has died at the age of 21.Staff at the Wildwood Trust say she lived a long life after being move from a zoo and released into Blean Woods in 2022. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A mum from Margate has died just three months after being diagnosed with cancer.53-year-old Michelle Bailey was told in July she had an incurable form of the disease after initially suffering what doctors thought was a stroke.Also in today's podcast, the leader of Kent County Council has hit back at the Chancellor, after she criticised the local authority during a speech at Downing Street.Rachel Reeves was speaking ahead of her Budget later this month. Hear what she had to say and the response from Reform UK's Linden Kemkaran. The boss of a Kent charity's admitted they got too big, too quickly.Gillingham Street Angels, which runs a number of shops and a food bank, announced at the start of the week it was going to close after supporting hundreds of homeless and vulnerable people since 2018.People living on Prince Andrew Road in Broadstairs have told the podcast the name is now embarrassing, and they want it changed.It's after Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was stripped of his Royal title over his links to disgraced financier Jeffery Epstein. Andrew has always denied any wrong doing.A campaign is underway to organise a Christmas dinner for young care leavers in north Kent.Many of those who grow up in foster homes are left with nowhere to go on the big day after they turn 18.An event is already held every year in Folkestone, and now volunteers want to put on a meal in the north of the county.And in sport, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has returned to oversee training this week following heart surgery.He's been absent from the club for a month after having an operation in early October. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Developers who wanted to rebuild a cherished country pub which burnt down after being struck by lightning say they've had to “abandon the dream” after costs “ballooned”.Plans to restore The Green Man were approved in April, with the intention of renting it to someone who would create a nice community pub.Also in today's podcast, an XL bully owner agreed to have nine puppies put down when police warned him of the kennel costs he faced after they were seized.It's after he failed to register his adult dogs in time for a national deadline on the banned breed.The boss of a catapult shooting club is inviting teen tearaways to hand in their “homemade” weapons and instead learn to use the device responsibly.The West Kent Catapult Club opened last year to create a legitimate place for target shooting as a sport.Villagers are gearing up to fight plans for a huge lorry park near their homes - fearing it will bring round-the-clock noise and pollution to the countryside.The proposals for the 70-acre site, between West Hougham and Capel-le-Ferne, would accommodate up to 600 HGVs – a public meeting is being held today. And a village could go without its Christmas lights due to flags put up over the summer.Harrietsham has had the decorations every year along the A20 Ashford Road for as long as residents can remember but the parish council say that's now under threat.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in his 40s in Chatham.He was found with stab wounds at a home in Castle Road on Saturday morning. Hear from our reporter who has been at the scene today.Also in today's podcast, residents in part of Maidstone are calling for urgent action to fix unsafe cladding on their flats.Material on the roofs of the buildings at Kingfisher Meadow was deemed to be too flammable following a survey after the Grenfell disaster in 2017.The MP for Gillingham and Rainham says she's worried about where the debate over immigration is heading.Naushabah Khan says it's been allowed by mainstream politicians to seep into an argument about race and identity.Bosses at Ashford Designer Outlet say they're about to hit 100% occupancy for the first time in seven years.It's currently home to 111 units, following an expansion in 2019.Football, and all three Kent teams involved in FA Cup first round action at the weekend have been knocked out of the competition.Hear reaction from Gillingham and Chatham Town. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A grieving mum says she's being treated “like a criminal” after being fined £300 for placing her late husband's clothes by a donation bin which was full.She placed the two bin liners of clothes on the ground “neatly” beside lots of other bags but was approached by a warden who issued the fine for fly-tipping. Also in today's podcast, we've been hearing from people on the streets of Kent as we mark six months since Reform UK took over the leadership of Kent County Council. It follows a difficult few weeks for the party, with several members suspended following a leaked video of leader Linden Kemkaran shouting and swearing during a virtual meeting. The health minister's been in Kent to officially name a new multi-million pound surgical centre at Maidstone Hospital.The facility has three state-of-the-art operating theatres and 24 beds and has cared for three and a half thousand people since opening last year.A Kent author's revealed how a small village was saved from major development - thanks to its ghost stories.Pluckley's said to be the most haunted place in England - with tales including the White Lady, Highwayman and Watercress Woman.And in football, Chatham Town are facing an FA Cup first-round challenge for the first time in 97 years this weekend. They suffered a heavy defeat back in 1928, and whatever the outcome this weekend boss Kevin Hake says it's another step forward for the club. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A decision has been made by the rail regulator which could open the door for international trains stopping in Kent again.Eurostar services haven't called at Ashford or Ebbsfleet since the pandemic.Virgin Trains have now been given permission to use the Temple Mills depot in London - which is the first step in a process which would allow them to go through the Channel Tunnel.Hear reaction from Ashford MP Sojan Joseph, and Tudor Price who is the chief executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.Also in today's podcast, a Dartford tax driver is calling for tougher regulation, after claiming almost three-quarters of people working in the town are from other areas.Roger Clarke works at Bridge Cars and says he's seen business plummet since the pandemic.As part of Halloween celebration at Dover Castle, visitors will have the chance to give their deep dive into history a life-saving twist.English Heritage has teamed up with the NHS to hand out testing kits so people can find out their own blood type.And, the Medway Hospital Charity are using their 30th anniversary celebrations to raise money for more wheelchairs.The Thirty at 30 campaign has a goal of £30,000 to buy 30 chairs to meet a rise in demand. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A former nurse who groped a lone woman near a shopping centre whispered, “You're not like the other ones who usually scream.”He'd spotted the stranger before subjecting her to the terrifying ordeal near Ashford Designer Outlet in broad daylight. Also in today's podcast, the boss of an animal sanctuary says her “heart is numb” after revealing her birds are at the centre of an outbreak of avian flu - and will all have to be culled.Amey James, who runs Happy Pants Ranch in Newington says several ducks, turkeys and cockerels fell ill last week.Changes are on the way for the ambulance service that covers Kent as it merges with another to form a larger group. Union bosses says the merger between South East Coast Ambulance and South Central Service must protect jobs, pay and conditions. Fees at Kent's priciest public car parks are set to increase again in a move branded “diabolical” and “greedy” by residents.The most expensive sites in Canterbury and Whitstable are proposed to rise by 10p an hour, despite fears it will have a “huge knock-on effect” on small businesses.And one of Kent's biggest foodbanks is launching a campaign with the help of former boxer Barry McGuigan to get enough food to help families over winter.You can hear from bosses at Canterbury food bank who want us to get involved in their Reverse Advent Calendar. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Owners of a huge holiday park have unveiled plans to replace it with hundreds of new homes and oust “illegal” occupants.Hundreds of caravan users, many of which are said to be living all-year round in breach of the rules, off a site on Sheppey could be asked to leave.Also in today's podcast, a shocking case of illegal dumping first uncovered by KentOnline has been singled out as evidence of “multiple failings” by environmental authorities.A House of Lords committee has written to the environment secretary calling for an independent review into how agencies handled the “egregious events” at Hoad's Wood, near Ashford.A father-and-son team who have been brewing and selling beer for more than a decade have been forced to close their award-winning business.They've bid their final farewell to punters after 12 years at Loddington Farm near Maidstone.Rob and Numi from kmfm Breakfast have met a 13 year-old boy who's raising money so his mum can have cancer treatment.Oscar is running 100 miles in October and the team joined him for a jog around a track in Canterbury. And in sport, we're told Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has been joining strategy meetings as he continues to recover from heart surgery.He's missed the last few games following the operation – you can hear from club chairman Brad Galinson who says he's making good progress.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An abandoned nightclub has been destroyed after a fire ripped through the building last night. The Grade II listed site of the former Portlands Factory club in Northfleet went up in flames just before midnight. Also in today's podcast, a couple say they have lost £18,000 worth of stock after after a blaze tore through an historic building on a regenerated quayside. In the early hours of yesterday, fire crews were called to Standard Quay to a fire that seemed to be coming from inside The Pottery Room.A Kent man who came to the UK as an asylum seeker says he's taking part in an immigration debate to speak up for those who don't have a voice.He was 17 when he arrived in the back of a lorry from Iraq in 1999 – he's urging people not to feel threatened by those who come here from a better life. A frustrated dad says he was put through “years of hell” after being hounded for child support arrears he did not owe – despite his ex-wife confirming he never missed a payment.He's now hit out at the Child Maintenance Service, claiming it gave him “sleepless nights” by wrongly chasing him for thousands of pounds and even taking money directly from his wages.And in football, you can hear from Gillingham's assistant manager following a disappointing defeat over the weekend. They Gills lost 2 – 1 to Salford City at Priestfield but Richard Dobson is urging fans to look at the stats.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A woman who won tens of thousands on Premium Bonds, sold her home and spent a year abroad before falsely claiming thousands in benefits on her return to Kent has avoided prison. Between 2021 and 2024, she received more than £23,000 after making false statements to the Department for Work and Pensions.Also in today's podcast, you can hear from the Ashford MP who's weighed in on the troubles being faced by Reform UK at County Hall. Sojan Joseph has been telling us why KCC leader Linden Kemkaran should lose her job. Residents say it's “total rubbish” their town is well served by pharmacies while their only closed branch “sits there like a ghost” - and prevents new ones from opening.Jhoots, in the Rainham Shopping Precinct, closed in August after months of troubles meaning 40,000 people in the town have been without direct easy access.A prototype of the game Medway Fighter, based on the classic arcade game Street Fighter will debut at Electric Medway Festival this weekend. You can hear from the creative director who says it's a new way for people to engage with Medway's heritage. And in football, Gillingham assistant boss Richard Dobson says he doesn't want his players to be affected by their winless run when they face Salford City this weekend. The Gills have gone four League 2 matches without a win after a blistering start to the season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Residents are calling for action to solve traffic “chaos” caused by lorries struggling to make it up a slippery hill.They say they are kept up at night by screeching tyres and reversing alarms as stranded HGVs retreat back down for another run-up, and fear there will be a serious accident.Also in today's podcast, Kent has been battered with strong winds and heavy rain as Storm Benjamin hits. It's caused travel disruption with trees down and local flooding reported across the county. Reform UK councillors have lodged official complaints about the leadership style of the top table at Kent County Council. You can hear from Simon Finlay from the Local Democracy Reporting Service as it's understood at least five members have sent grievances to the party's head office.Bosses at Kent Fire and Rescue say they'll have to make tough decisions if they don't get more funding.A survey's been launched to see if residents would be willing to pay 9p a week more in council tax contributions.And, a bitter funding dispute between school leaders and council bosses is threatening the future of a specialist school supporting vulnerable children and young people.Kent County Council and FAR Academy in Whitstable have so far failed to agree on how much the authority should pay the school per student. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An alleged abuser has been called a “coward” after he took his own life the day before he was due to stand trial.The 69-year-old was found at HMP Elmley earlier this month – the family of one of the accusers have shared their anger at not getting their day in court.Also in today's podcast, you can hear audio from the moment a prolific thief was arrested by police as he hid under a bed.Billy Bird carried out a two-week spree of thefts across Faversham and Ashford, targeting multiple stores and stealing hundreds of pounds worth of alcohol and food.The under-pressure Reform UK leader of Kent County Council has called on her 49 remaining members to back her.Cllr Linden Kemkaran, on advice from the party's headquarters, sent out a message calling on all fellow councillors to sign a statement of support.New figures show Swale Borough Council has received more complaints about wood burning than any other in England. Residents lodged more than 12-hundred complaints in the last 12 months - prompting campaigners to call for government to tighten regulations. And a Kent woman who went through menopause in her early 40s says there's still too much stigma around the issue.You can hear from Grace Lawson who started experiencing symptoms when she was just 42. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A court has heard a man “saw red” on the night his town centre bar was closing down and thrust a broken bottle into another man's head.Steven Harwood-Brown threw one of his employees to the floor at Folkestone venue Picklebacks, before stabbing the victim, who had intervened to stop the fight.Also in today's podcast, pressure is growing on the leader of Kent County Council after seven MPs demanded she quit and an eighth labelled her behaviour ‘unacceptable.'In a letter to Reform leader Nigel Farage, the Labour MPs said Cllr Linden Kemkaran was ‘clearly not up to the job. Two Kent women who survived domestic abuse are starting a community project to provide clothing and toiletries for other victims.The DV Closet, in Sevenoaks, is a safe space where those who've fled abuse can get the support they need.Long-harboured plans to build a new reservoir in the Kent countryside are finally moving forward as contractors carry out the first phase of ground investigation works.South East Water is planning to build a 200-acre facility on farmland near Canterbury - you can hear from the project manager. And a Kent farmer's told us he's pleased to be able to give apples he grows to charity - to avoid them going to waste.The crop at Hazel Street Farm is no longer financially viable, so the orchard has been handed over to a food project. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Reform UK has suspended four county councillors after the leaking of a video showing a private Zoom meeting of senior party members.The four have had the whip removed “pending investigation, following evidence they brought the party into disrepute”.Also in today's podcast, fed-up residents say they're paying hundreds of pounds in service fees for a children's play park which, in reality, amounts to little more than a wooden log.Over the past four years, garden city residents have been paying property management agency, FirstPort, thousands of pounds to maintain play equipment that residents say doesn't exist.The MP for Canterbury has spoken in the commons about some of the challenges being faced by Canterbury Cathedral.Independent Rosie Duffield says the appointment of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the first female to hold the role should be seen as a new start for the church.One of Kent's poorest areas is set to receive £20 million to upgrade it to make it a “better place to live”.Ahead of a meeting on the Pride in Place funding, business owners and residents of the Sheppey East ward told the KentOnline Podcast what they think the money should be spent on.And in sport, Gillingham had two players sent off and conceded a debatable-looking penalty as they were beaten at Grimsby Town.The Gills have now gone four games without a win in League 2 after the 1-0 loss and visiting fans were left chanting “1-0 to the referee” after a series of controversial decisions against their team. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A hugely respected taxi company boss has died just a week before giving his daughter away at a dream wedding in southern Spain attended by more than 160 guests.Lance Ridden suddenly passed away after suffering a suspected heart attack in the luxury resort of Marbella.Also in today's podcast, University of Kent bosses have reignited fury by pushing ahead with plans for a huge 2,000-home estate on nearby countryside – despite the land being ruled out of Canterbury's housing blueprint.The acting vice-chancellor has written to campaigners confirming the institution is pressing on with the controversial scheme on fields north of its city campus.Protestors are gathering in Kent today to demand an end to the use of Operation Brock on the M20. It's being led by Faversham MP Helen Whately – you can hear from her about why motorists are so fed up with the contraflow system. The winter season has officially started for Kent's gritters, with teams out for the annual parade today. It's an opportunity for teams across the county to familiarise themselves with the routes they'll be covering – we've spoken to highways bosses about how they're getting ready for the icy weather. And in football, it's an away game for Gillingham this weekend. They're travelling to take on Grimsby Town in a clash the assistant manager Richard Dobson says will be “good for the neutrals”.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The sister of a much-loved young man who died from carbon monoxide poisoning wants to warn others about the “silent killer”.“Popular and kind” Elliot Bourne fell asleep on a sofa in front of a coal fire in Hythe and was found unresponsive the next day.Also in today's podcast, a jury has heard a violent axe and cricket bat attack on two men as they drove along the A2 ​had its background in human trafficking.Those involved in what is alleged to have been a bid to kill the driver of a Seat Leon and seriously injure one of his passengers had all come to the UK from Afghanistan.The MP for Dartford has spoken in PMQs about the urgent funds needed to repair Galley Hill Road.The route through Swanscombe has been closed for two-and-a-half years after a major landslide – you can hear the Prime Minister's response. It's Restart a Heart Day and we've been speaking to a paramedic about a new smartphone app that could save a life. SECAmb say the GoodSAM app could make all the difference to a patient who's gone in cardiac arrest – listen in to see whether you can download it. And a Kent hockey club that was forced to leave its base is hoping to raise more than a million pounds to build a new permanent home.K Sports had been at Cobdown Sports Ground in Ditton but needed to move out when it was sold to London City Lionesses. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A former Dartford council worker who swindled her employer out of almost half a million pounds while in charge of housing benefit payments has been spared jail.A court's been told how the 44-year-old set up fake claims in the names of people she knew, and fraudulently received £493,000 over a nine-year period.Also in today's podcast, a man who stabbed a stranger in Chatham while on day release from a psychiatric hospital has been convicted of attempted murder.Ray Chirisa, 34, had been reported missing from the Trevor Gibbens Unit in Maidstone just 30 minutes before the attack happened on The Brook in October last year.The Chancellor's been at the Dartford Crossing to announce plans to limit the number of court challenges that can be brought against major infrastructure projects.Rachel Reeves also wants to speed up the time judicial reviews take by six months so builders can get spades in the ground more quickly.Rochester Cathedral will be lit up blue and pink tonight as baby loss awareness week comes to an end.A 'wave of light' event will be happening so bereaved parents and wider family can light candles. Hear from Keeley Lengthorn who is an ambassador for Kent baby loss charity Abigail's Footsteps.A community farm on Sheppey visited by children with special educational needs has been given permission to open as an independent school.Curly's Farm covers 10 acres of land in Leysdown and can now be an alternative provision for young people with an EHCP - we've been speaking to founder Kyle Ratcliffe.The Kent man who came up with Morph and designed the Blue Peter Badge would have been 100 today.Artist Tony Hart grew up in Maidstone and studied in the town before presenting children's TV programmes Take Hart and Hart Beat.Now an exhibition of his work has gone on show at the Creative Maidstone Community Arts Hub.And in sport, a rugby player from Kent has been telling us how she overcame illness and injury to help England's Women win the World Cup.West Malling's Rosie Galligan was part of the Red Roses squad that beat Canada 33-13 at Twickenham last month. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The owner of a dog that seriously injured a young girl in Rainham has been ordered to pay compensation to the child.A cockapoo called Reggie bit the three-year-old's arm on Mierscourt Road in June.Also in today's podcast, residents of a street in Snodland are calling on the council to officially change the address to resolve mail delivery problems.People living in Rayfield Court say their road is independent from neighbouring Willowside, but when their postcode is put into most search engines it defaults to an address in Willowside. A Kent expert has told today's episode how the next few weeks and months will be crucial if peace is to remain in the Middle East.It's after US President Donald Trump was given a standing ovation in the Israeli parliament yesterday, as he talked of a "new dawn" in the region.A debate is being held in Parliament about the benefits of returning international rail services to Ashford.Eurostar trains haven't stopped in Kent since the pandemic, but there are now plans for other operators to use the route.The landlords of a village pub near Faversham fear their trade will be hit at the busiest time of the year because the road it's on is due to shut for gas works.Head Hill Road links Graveney and Goodnestone to Faversham and the Thanet Way and is expected to close later this month. Hear from Chris and Katrina Goater who run the Four Horseshoes.There's going to be a meeting in Medway tonight to discuss the flags being flown from lampposts right now.St George crosses and union flags have been displayed as part of the Raise the Colours campaign which started in the summer.And in sport, find out who three Kent clubs have been drawn against in the first round of the FA Cup.The games are due to be played at the start of November. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Gravesend tenant says he's living in constant fear of his council home falling down around him due to ongoing subsidence issues.Sunder Khutan moved in to the mid-terrace property off Windmill Street in 2019 - only a few months later he notices cracks in the walls and ceilings.Also on today's podcast, a person's died after being hit by a train in Medway.Police were called to Otterham Quay Lane in Rainham this morning forcing the road to be closed near to Leigh Academy secondary school. Hear from our reporter who was at the scene earlier.It's thought it'll cost hundreds of pounds to carry out repairs to a Labour party office in Medway following an alleged attack by vandals.A brick was repeatedly smashed against the window of the building on Maidstone Road in Rochester. We've got reaction from councillor Alex Paterson who represents Rochester West and Borstal.Another Medway councillor is calling for a change in the rules after one of his former colleagues defected to Reform UK.We told you last week how Robbie Lammas - who represents Princes Park ward in Chatham - had decided to leave the Conservative party.At the moment, a councillor switching parties doesn't trigger a bi-election but Cllr Habib Tejan thinks that should be altered.People using a public footpath in Maidstone say it's constantly flooded because of a blocked culvert, and no one is taking responsibility.It's affecting the walkway in Unicumes Lane in Fant, which is part of the Millennium River Park.Football, and it was a last gasp equaliser for Gillingham at Priestfield over the weekend.Despite having 30 attempts at goal with 10 in target - the Gills went 1-nil down to Cheltenham Town late on in the second half.Substitute Elliott Nevitt managed to salvage a point with the last kick of the game, hear from him and Gillingham's assistant manager Richard Dobson.And, a former Love Island star has been chatting about his plans to open a padel venue in Kent.Charlie Brake from Ashford appeared on the reality show in 2019.The 30-year-old is now converting a unit on the Wincheap Industrial Estate in Canterbury into courts, a café, pro shop and changing facilities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A grieving mum who lost her four-year-old son in a bus tragedy is hoping to raise money to buy her own home so she can bury him in the garden.Little Zaahir Jan Feizi was laid to rest after being knocked down outside the QEQM Hospital in Margate in August, but the cemetery is a long journey from his mum's home.Also in today's podcast, a woman who was sofa surfing with her young daughter and two bin bags of clothes has revealed how she turned her life around.Jodie had fled a relationship and suffered episodes of psychosis after smoking cannabis. She went clean four years ago after seeking help from Canterbury based homeless charity Porchlight and has been sharing her story to mark World Homeless Day.A ground-breaking new sixth form academy will be opening for STEM students in Kent next year.Carbon Six will be be based in Discovery Park in Sandwich and offer 60 places for A-level students of biology, physics, chemistry and maths.A brown bear from Kent who had to have pioneering brain surgery has been presented with a cake to mark one year since the operation.Boki, who lives at the Wildwood Trust near Canterbury, was suffering from seizures because of a build-up of fluid which has now been removed.In sport, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has been discharged from hospital following heart surgery.Hear from assistant boss Richard Dobson who says the gaffer is making 'really good progress'. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The owner of an ice cream van says he has received death threats after being falsely linked to suspicious behaviour in Tonbridge.A young girl reported seeing three men running in her direction and was possibly grabbed on the arm while walking through the cemetery last month.Kent Police have been forced to confirm the Drifters Whippy van, which was parked nearby, is not linked in any way - despite rumours online.Also in today's podcast, one person's been arrested and the bomb disposal team called in after "suspicious items" were found in a flat in Margate.Officers were called to Rosedale Road at around 4pm yesterday - several surrounding roads were also evacuated and a cordon put in place. Hear from one resident and our reporter Brad Harper who was at the scene.A report out today is calling for urgent improvements to mental health services in Kent and Medway.An inspection was carried out by the Care Quality Commission on the NHS Social Care Partnership Trust in March.The boss of a café in Snodland has told the podcast how a nearby gas leak has affected them.The A228 bypass road has been closed since Sunday night and it's led to traffic diverting along the narrower Malling Road - causing long delays and congestion.And, the RSPCA have launched their Adoptober campaign, and are asking people in Kent to consider adopting larger breeds of dog.Huskies and Akitas are among the pets waiting to be rehomed at the Leybourne Animal Centre. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A woman who feared she would die at the hands of her controlling husband has told of her horror after he avoided prison despite years of abuse that left her with life-changing injuries.She says what began as “the most incredible love” turned into a suffocating and terrifying relationship in which she was constantly monitored, isolated and attacked inside her own home. Also in today's podcast, you can hear the moment a man was arrested after a drone was allegedly used to deliver drugs to inmates at a prison in Maidstone. Police called after the device had been found within the grounds alongside a package containing a large quantity of cannabis.We've spoken to a Medway councillor who has become one of the latest Conservatives to defect to Reform UK. Cllr Robbie Lammas has represented the Princes Park ward since August 2021 as a Tory but has now switched, saying his former party “is over”.In sport, Gillingham's stand-in boss Richard Dobson was disappointed to lose their EFL Trophy match but delighted with the lessons learned by many of their young players.The Gills lost 2 – 1 after sending a young team out to meet a seasoned Colchester United team away. And, a play about Gareth Southgate's time as England manager has arrived in Kent as part of its first UK tour.Dear England is based on a letter the former footballer wrote to fans during Covid ahead of Euro2020 – you can hear from the man who's stepping into the lead role.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Dover woman has been detained in a psychiatric unit after randomly attacking a stranger in the street with a kitchen knife.The victim was taken to a London hospital for treatment after she was stabbed in the back while walking down Biggin Street in January.The KentOnline Podcast has been told 90% of retailers in Tunbridge Wells have complied with new rules around single use vapes since they were introduced in June.That's 10% higher than in other parts of the county.The town was the first in Kent to take part in a 'Local Vape Action' scheme where experts work with shops.A man who drove from Dartford to Maidstone to meet a child he'd been sending explicit messages to on Snapchat has been jailed.The 47-year-old had arranged a meeting in February but was intercepted by police who spotted his van being repeatedly driven in and out of a car park.A Kent charity says Ellie Goldstein's appearance on Strictly is showing the world what people with disabilities can achieve.Before taking to the dancefloor this season, Ellie made history by becoming the first model with Down Syndrome to feature in British Vogue. Hear from We Are Beams which supports young people and their parents in north Kent.A mum from Walderslade says she was inspired to take up a career in funeral arranging, following the death of her baby.Delphine Craig went into early labour with her son and sadly lost him at around 21 weeks in 2006.Despite working for 13 years as a martial arts teacher - the 47-year-old is now working at the Co-op Funeral Care in Sittingbourne High Street.And in sport, Gillingham are in EFL Trophy action tonight as they travel to take on Colchester United.It follows back-to-back defeats in the league after a record breaking run of 21 games unbeaten. Hear from defender Logan Dobbs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An Asda employee has faced court after abusing a company taxi account to fund more than £6,000 worth of personal journeys – including a 115-mile round trip to visit his mum in London.He repeatedly booked cabs on the supermarket's tab despite having no right to use the system, exploiting it for weeks before being caught.Also in today' podcast, bosses in Medway say red routes will be repaired - after pictures revealed the painted lines in one town have already worn away.The double lines were controversially introduced on busy routes - including the A2 in Rainham - in May last year in a bid to tackle congestion.The KentOnline Podcast has been hearing how teachers, nurses and young families are among those struggling to afford hygiene products in Kent.You can hear from a local charity who provide products including toilet roll, washing powder and deodorant to those who can't afford it as we start a national awareness week. A mum says it is “irresponsible” that a shop window displayed an uncensored cushion with an expletive in view of children.She was walking past the Urban Outfitters in Tunbridge wells when she saw the embroidered pillow on display.And in sport, you can hear from Gillingham's weekend goalscorer Jonny Williams who's frustrated at the team's performance in the loss to MK Dons. It's back to back defats for the Gills who have now dropped to fourth in the table.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Campaigners are gathering on the Kent coast this weekend to protest against sewage leaks and rising water bills.SOS Whitstable says Labour aren't doing enough to tackle the issue, more than a year after winning the general election.Also in today's podcast, police in Kent have told us they're providing reassurance to the Jewish community in the county following a terrorist attack in Manchester.Two people died when a man drove into crowds outside a synagogue before attacking people with a knife. Hear how MPs in Kent have reacted to what happened.It's been confirmed today Sarah Mullally is the new Archbishop of Canterbury.The former nurse is the first female head of the Church of England and takes over the role from Justin Welby who stood down in January. Hear from our reporter who's at Canterbury Cathedral.A coven of witches in Kent has been told they can't hold a psychic fair in a village hall, just six days before it was due to take place.The Coven of the Sacred Oak booked Bredhurst Village Hall for the event to share their skills and raise money.More than 10,000 dancers from around 60 different countries are going to be heading to Medway over the next few days.The Towns are hosting the qualifiers for the 72nd International Dance Festival ahead of the final at the Royal Albert Hall in London.Celia Imrie's going to be heading to Kent to chat about her new book.The Bridget Jones's Diary and Thursday Murder Club star will be at the Hazlitt Theatre as part of Maidstone LitFest.In sport, Gillingham will be looking to bounce straight back this weekend from their first defeat of the season.They lost 1-0 to Harrogate Town at Priestfield last Saturday and head to MK Dons tomorrow.Assistant boss Richard Dobson is taking charge of the side while manager Gareth Ainsworth is away having heart surgery. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An inquest has heard a mum stabbed her daughter in the back with a 12-inch kitchen knife while she was cooking a family meal - before fatally turning the blade on herself.She'd told a psychiatric nurse of her fear of being sectioned just hours before the tragedy unfolded in Ashford in June. Also in today's podcast, a family has accused planning officers of acting “cruelly” following the “flawed” refusal of an annex for their severely disabled son.The family say the outbuilding extension in Hoo could provide a suitable home for their son, who has autism and complex needs, to live and be cared for by them. A church leader will chair an evening with leaders in Medway to discuss what our country's flag means. It's after St George Crosses appeared on lampposts and spray painted on roundabouts over the summer – Reverend Nathan Ward says a bigger conversation needs to be had. We've been hearing how charitable trusts in Kent are helping support young carers.We've spoken to Imago, as figures show as many as one-in-five people under the age of 18 are responsible for looking after a loved one.And you can hear from a Kent cheerleading squad that will be taking part in one of the world's most competitive championships.MCDA Allstars, based in Chatham, will be representing the UK at the Allstar World Championship 2026 in Florida. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An investigation by KentOnline has uncovered the scale of bed blocking in Kent's hospitals with some patients waiting months to be discharged.Over the past year, almost 40,000 people in two parts of the county were kept in wards after their treatment had finished - costing the NHS around £50 million.Hear from the daughter of a woman who ended up in hospital for a month longer than she needed to be.Also in today's podcast, the government is being urged to invest more into GP surgeries as a survey in Kent shows the workforce is in crisis.Doctors and practice managers across the county were asked about their experiences and almost three quarters reported being under 'significant stress'.As Stoptober gets underway, pregnant women in Kent are being urged to stop smoking as figures reveal hundreds are still doing it while expecting.Stats show more than 1 in 10 mums-to-be in Thanet are having cigarettes - the highest in the county.A grandmother from Goudhurst says she's still in shock after her home was targeted in a suspected arson attack.Neighbours spotted the blaze on the edge of Valerie Excell's house on High Ridge on September 18th.The KentOnline Podcast has been told it's still important the stories of the Windrush generation are shared today.Thousands of people moved from the Caribbean between the 1940s and 70s to rebuild Britain following the second world war.Among them was Asquith Xavier who lived in Chatham and fought against discrimination to become the first Black train guard at Euston station. Hear from his granddaughter, Camealia Xavier-Chihota, who runs Medway Culture Club which is putting on events during Black History Month.A wine producer that has a vineyard in Kent has picked up one of the most prestigious awards in the industry.Nyetimber has a site in Thurnham and has been recognised for their 2016 Blanc de Blancs, while their head wine maker also won Sparkling Wine Maker of the year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

People living in part of Dartford say lives are being put at risk by mounds of hoarded waste in a garden.Pictures at KentOnline show the state of the land outside the bungalow on Joyce Green Walk in the town, and a fire that recently broke out there is being treated as suspected arson. Hear from reporter Alex Langridge who has been covering the story.Also in today's podcast, police have cordoned off part of Rochester High Street following reports of a suspicious item.The bomb squad was called to a residential property near Corporation Street yesterday evening.Residents in Dover say they are suffering sleepless nights due to a generator at a new store.The machine has been running at the Co-op on Archers Court Road in Whitfield for the past seven weeks.The deputy leader of Reform UK says the party taking control of Kent County Council will show the country what they can do.They won this years' local elections in a landslide. Richard Tice has been the guest on the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast.A bus that used to take passengers around Maidstone has been given a new lease of life, as a soft play facility for SEN children.The Nu-Venture vehicle had to stop running a couple of years ago when it's engine died and was donated to Five Acre Wood School in Loose.And in sport, Kent rugby player Rosie Galligan says being part of the World Cup winning squad has been "phenomenal".The 27-year-old from West Malling came on as a 70th-minute replacement in Saturday's victory over Canada at Twickenham. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A hearing's been told how a young man died in a tragic accident on a railway line in Kent as he attempted to leave the UK.An inquest was told the 25-year-old Albanian national was trying to cross the tracks near the Motis Lorry Park last September.Also in today's podcast, There's been a mixed reaction to new bus fares that've come into force in parts of Kent.Stagecoach have increased their prices by 10p for short or medium-length journeys. We've been hearing what people in Maidstone think while Stagecoach have told us why the price hike is necessary.Plans for 100 new homes and sports facilities in a village near Maidstone have been delayed again.Residents in Lenham have been waiting six years for a decision on the development off Old Ashford Road. Hear from the chairman of the parish council.Kent Fire and Rescue are praising the work of their volunteer unit, as it celebrates its tenth anniversary.The Volunteer Response Team is on call 365 days a year and works with crews at the scene of fires and floods.Drivers have helped rescue three dogs after they were dumped by a roadside in Sittingbourne.The animals were seen being left by a van driver on Ruins Barn Road before the vehicle sped off.In sport, hear from the Gillingham manager who has revealed he will be undergoing planned heart surgery this week.Meantime, Gillingham's unbeaten run under Gareth Ainsworth has come to an end. We've got reaction from midfielder Bradley Dack. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A "greedy and manipulative" gambler who fleeced family, friends and teammates out of life-changing sums of money as he blew more than £4 million on betting sites has been sent to prison. Kenny Sanders convinced some of those closest to him to part with their savings, inheritances and pension pots, assuring them he was investing their cash in a thriving IT company.Also in today's podcast, the family of a British couple detained in Iran have said they have “no clear information” on their upcoming court appearance, claiming UK officials are also “in the dark”.Lindsay and Craig Foreman were taken into custody in January during a motorcycle tour around the world and were later charged with espionage.Council leaders, MPs and local business bosses will meet in Ashford today, calling for international rail services to return to Kent. The event is being hosted by Kent County Council who say the move could boost the visitor economy by 300-million pounds a year. In sport, Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth is looking forward to the club making a statement to the rest of the division this weekend.Priestfield will be near to capacity for the visit of Harrogate Town, with the Rainham End sold out, and all available tickets for the bottom section of the Town End also snapped up in the week.And in the women's game you can hear from the managing director of London City Lionesses who have approval to completely overhaul their Kent training ground. The rebuild of facilities at Cobdown Park in Aylesford will cost tens of millions of pounds and rivals those built for men's teams.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The need for yet more restrictions on a “rollercoaster” stretch of the New Thanet Way has been branded an “absolute disgrace” – with highways bosses unable to say how long a reduced 50mph speed limit will stay in place.Kent County Council says “urgent” action was needed because dangerous bumps in the dual-carriageway between Faversham and Herne Bay are putting drivers at risk.Also in today's podcast, a pensioner who drove his car into another man at a gated residential park, which was caught on camera, had previously attacked another resident . The 70-year-old deliberately drove into the man in Hoo after wrongly believing the victim was trying to harass him just months after being charged with assault by beating. Residents whose road has been turned into a ‘dangerous' rat run after a major landslip more than two years ago fear someone will be killed.People living in Stanhope Road in Swanscombe say life has become intolerable since nearby Galley Hill Road was shut after the collapse in April 2023. A primary school in Gravesend is trying to raise £20,000 to fix their pool, which has fallen into disrepair It's believed Cecil Road Primary and Nursery is the only one in the area with a swimming pool – you can hear from the school's head and from some of the students about what it means to them. And you can hear from international DJ Joel Corry who's been on kmfm's Hit List. He's taken some time out to talk to Jack about his new fitness sessions.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Four men are being questioned by police after another man is said to have been stabbed. Police were called to reports of a disturbance inside a property in Halfway Road on Sheppey last night – you can hear from one of our reports who's been at the scene. Also in today's podcast, former Gillingham FC chairman Paul Scally is being sued in the High Court over the £7 million takeover of the club by its American owners.Brad Galinson and the club are taking legal action, alleging a whole host of financial wrongdoing concerning the League 2 side's affairs.A motorist says he'll think twice about ever buying a vehicle from a used car dealer again after the stress of buying a car with a “serious underlying fault“ gave him sleepless nights.Gary Faber bought a 2019 Jaguar E Pace online from Hippo Motor Group for £22,000 but six days later the engine management light came on. Management at Gillingham are backing a fan-led campaign to try and get 8000 people in Priestfield this weekend.It follows their 3-1 win over Newport County last Saturday which set a new club record for the number of games unbeaten.And, you can hear from a Kent singer/songwriter who wrote an original song every day, for more than 400 days.Jasper Hodges started busking on the streets of Canterbury when he was just 13 – he's now played festival at Hyde Park and Ally Pally.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

​A woman spared jail for lacing a bottle of coke with laxatives which left a man with severe diarrhoea boasted on Facebook she was free within hours of leaving court.The 38-year-old poured more than half a bottle of lactulose into the fizzy drink which was then guzzled by the unsuspecting victim.Also in today's podcast, a rugby referee rushed to hospital after almost collapsing during a match is warning others not to ignore their body if they are not feeling right.He was officiating a tie between Duke of York School in Dover and King's Rochester in Medway when he began struggling just minutes after kick-off.There are calls for more of us to have conversations about organ donation as figures reveal 120 people from Kent have died while on the transplant list over the last decade.Numbers given to the KentOnline Podcast also show 118 people from the county received potentially life-saving surgery over the past year.A hairdresser is cutting her losses and has transformed her salon into a private healthcare clinic in Sittingbourne - with the help of a former client.She's been in the hair industry for 40 years but says the salon had become unprofitable in recent years so she made the “devastating” decision to close it.And, a “nurturing and inclusive” music school for youngsters with special needs is set to move into its new home.Specialist college SupaJam will set up shop at the former NatWest building in Swanley next year – you can hear from their CEO about who they are and what they do.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An off-grid grandad says he won't be forced out of his creekside home despite being “more or less” fenced in.Bob Thwaites has lived off the bank of the Swanscombe Peninsula without any problems since 1991 but the new landowner have now put up a 6ft to keep people out. Also in today's podcast, there are fears the government's decision to approve a second runway at Gatwick Airport could lead to more noise pollution for Kent residents.£2.2 billion of private money is going to be spend on the expansion - which will allow for another 100-thousand flights a year.An MP is calling for a crackdown on excessive numbers of houses of multiple occupancy in Gillingham. Naushabah Khan says too many HMOs are being permitted in Gillingham and warns the current system could damage community cohesion and change the character of neighbourhoods forever.More than 130 people will carry the Baton of Hope at it travels through Kent today.The tour aims to change the narrative around suicide and started in Medway earlier - we've spoken to some of the people taking part. And in football we've got plenty of reaction from what was a record breaking weekend for Gillingham. Their in over Notts County has seen their unbeaten run in League Two to 21 games.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kent County Council have backtracked on a pledge to treat climate change as an emergency.An official declaration was made in 2019 - but a Reform UK councillor has now led a motion to scrap the statement, describing the science behind global warming as "nonsense".Despite a protest outside County Hall in Maidstone, the motion was voted through by 50 votes to 21 with three abstentions.Also in today's podcast, a Kent headteacher says children are being traumatised by content they're seeing online.Damian McBeath banned children from having phones in class last year and is now backing a national campaign calling for the digital age of consent to be raised to 16.Anti-immigration protestors are set to rally in Kent again this weekend.Demonstrators will march through Canterbury to a facility being used to house asylum- seeking children, while a counter demonstration is also due to take place. Hear from our local democracy reporter Dan Esson.The final Salute to the 40s event will take place at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham this weekend.The retro festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors but, after running for 18 years, this will be the very last one.Hundreds of people will be taking part in a fundraising walk for a hospice charity in Gravesend this evening.ellenor's annual Twilight Walk starts and ends at St Georges C of E School with an eight kilometre route around the town.And in football, Gillingham have the chance to break a club record this weekend.They're currently 20 games unbeaten in league two.A win or draw at Newport County tomorrow would make it the longest run without a defeat in the side's history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pictures have emerged of a cafe in the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford that's been turned into a makeshift ward.Health campaigners have described it as humiliating, with the main seating area blocked off by screens and patients wheeled in on beds. It's as the hospital continues to struggled with demand.Also in today's podcast, we're being encouraged to sleep rough for a night to experience what it's like for the 194 people in Kent who're currently on the streets.Canterbury based charity Porchlight are trying to raise awareness as winter and the bad weather approaches.Hear from a Kent councillor who's defected to a different political party.David Knight has left the Tunbridge Wells Alliance and joined the Conservatives, saying he wants to work with a party that can deliver across the whole borough and wider Weald.A mum from Deal has joined a celebrity-backed campaign to make bedtime stories accessible for blind and partially sighted children.Bedtime Donations allows parents to record themselves reading a story through an app - it's then added to an online library which can be accessed by anyone.Alison Steadman, Jon Richardson and Ralf Little are among those who've taken part.And, researchers at the University of Kent have shown it could be possible to grow tea on the Moon.Scientists planted saplings in soil similar to that found on the lunar surface, and we're told they flourished. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parents have hit out at a secondary school in Medway after their daughters were singled out over the length of their skirts.Some pupils at Hundred of Hoo Academy have been told their hemlines fall above the knee, and have been removed from class.Hear from one mum who has now pulled her daughter out of the school.Also in today's podcast, protests have taken place at the start of Donald Trump's second State visit to the UK.Earlier, giant projections showing the US president alongside disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein were beamed onto Windsor Castle.We've been speaking to an international relations expert from Canterbury Christ Church University.The first cohort of doctors will be graduating today from the Kent and Medway Medical School.It opened in 2020 and is the county's first facility of its kind.Hear from Amelia Townsend who is one of today's graduates.A group of MPs have handed a letter in to the rail regulator, calling for changes to be made so new international trains can stop at Ashford.Eurostar services haven't called at stations in the county since Covid, and there's a campaign to allow other operators to use the high speed route. The local democracy reporting service has spoken to Ashford's Sojan Joseph.And Kent has had another Royal visit. Find out who's been in the county. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Kent mum at the centre of an online storm says she “absolutely” regrets posting a controversial TikTok video about the murder of US activist Charlie Kirk – but insists her words have been “totally misconstrued”.She's been bombarded with vile threats and even had her business kicked out of the county's largest indoor market after she uploaded a clip in the wake of the 31-year-old's death.Also in today's podcast, a mum whose partner died in a building site accident has told how her life has “completely changed” since the tragedy - and how she stays strong for their children.David Archer suffered fatal injuries two years ago when he fell down a manhole at an unfinished housing estate in Ramsgate.The KentOnline Podcast has been told 200 species in Kent are at risk - and £3 million is needed to help save them.Bosses at Kent Wildlife Trust have launched their most ambitious fundraiser as they say we're facing a nature crisis.Handmade poppies in memory of men who lost their lives during the second world war have gone on display at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham.The Threads of Remembrance installation also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the conflict.And in football, the draw has been made for the third qualifying round of the FA Cup.We've got a full list of fixtures for teams across the county.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Twelve weeks worth of lane closures are starting today on the main road linking Medway and Maidstone.It's so survey work can take place on the A229 Blue Bell Hill before a £250 million improvement scheme goes ahead.There'll be a temporary speed limit of 40 miles per hour while work is being carried out.Also in today's podcast, residents of a housing estate on Sheppey say they've been left with thousands of pounds worth of debt after getting rid of their property management firm.FirstPort was removed by people living on the Queenborough Phase One development earlier this year.The MP for Canterbury says she'd love to return to the rank of Labour, but not under the leadership of Sir Keir Starmer.It's been a year since Rosie Duffield quit the party to stand as an independent over heavy-handed management.A Rainham man has stepped into help renovate the home of a 16-year-old girl who was left brain damaged after collapsing at a park in Ashford.Rubie Boyton now has severe, complex disabilities after suffering cardiac arrest at Bridgefield Park in May last year.Plasterer Dan Boalch is giving his time and expertise free of charge to help adapt her family home.In sport, Gillingham have equalled their club record - going 20 games unbeaten.They secured a 1-0 victory over Notts County at Priestfield on Saturday thanks to a goal from Josh Andrews - hear from him and manager Gareth Ainsworth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parking charges at one of Kent's most popular shopping destinations have been branded “insulting” after rising for the third time in as many years.Ashford Designer Outlet has increased its minimum parking fee to £3 for four hours - up from £2.50 last year and £2 the year before.Also in today's podcast, a serial burglar has been jailed again after cutting a hole in Bluewater shopping centre's roof and stealing £1.4million worth of watches.The notorious thief, who has previously targeted the home of Lord Alan Sugar, was on licence when he targeted Watchfinder at the shopping complex in February.There's just one month to go until the new Entry/Exit System is rolled out in Dover and Folkestone. It will involve people from non-EU countries – such as the UK – having their fingerprints registered and photograph taken to enter the EU but we're being assured it won't lead to long delays and backlogs of traffic. In football Gillingham will face a different kind of challenge this weekend as they look to maintain their impressive start to the season.The Gills welcome Notts County to Priestfield this Saturday – you can hear from boss Gareth Ainsworth and midfielder Jonny Williams. And we've spoken to the boss of a textile business in Kent who welcomed the Princess of Wales for a royal visit. Kate was at the Marina Mill in Cuxton as part of a series of engagements celebrating the British textile industry.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.