Podcasts about Maidstone

A driver has called a parking firm “disgusting” after he was wrongfully issued a £100 fine for overstaying.He'd left his car at the multi-storey in Maidstone on two separate occasions, days apart, and paid each time but was baffled when a hefty bill arrived claiming he had parked there for six days.Also in today's podcast, it's been revealed the railway crossing where an Amazon delivery driver died when his van was hit by a train has a history of near misses. You can hear from a local councillor who says safety improvements must be made to stop similar incidents happening in the future. The KentOnline Podcast has also been hearing about concerns from farmers as the hot, dry weather is impacting crops.Josiah Jones, who manages land near Gravesend, says forage that's normally gathered ahead of the winter is down 50 percent on normal levels.A former Kent MP says he backs an "insurance based" system - to avoid a crisis in social care Damian Green is now chair of the Social Care Foundation and says people should be able to take out a policy in case they need care later in life And yesterday we told you how a council hopes to revive controversial plans to fine people for swearing in public - just months after backing down in a legal row.Now you can hear from the people of Thanet on what they think about the proposals which are aimed at cracking down on anti-social behaviour in places like Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs. 

Send us a textMatt Marino takes us on an unforgettable journey through his remarkable golf career, from impulsively moving to Las Vegas as a young caddie to opening Tiger Woods' first American golf course, Blue Jack National.With candid charm, Matt shares how a simple business card and the bold declaration "I'm going to be your first head golf professional" led to his role launching Tiger's groundbreaking course. His insights into course design reveal why difficulty shouldn't be the primary measure of greatness – a perspective gained from playing many of America's top-ranked venues.The conversation shifts to Matt's latest venture with Tradition Golf and his unexpected success on the Whatnot platform, where his first impromptu livestream generated $6,500 in sales. This new frontier of digital golf commerce represents what Matt believes is just the beginning of a revolutionary change in how golfers buy, sell, and connect.We get exclusive details about Matt's upcoming $1,000 match against fellow Whatnot seller Off Tour Truck on July 21st, which has evolved into a charitable event supporting Texas flood victims. This match exemplifies how digital platforms are creating new ways to blend competition, community, and commerce in the golf world.Whether you're fascinated by course architecture, curious about digital golf commerce, or simply enjoy authentic conversations about the game's evolution, Matt's perspective offers fresh insights on where golf has been and where it's heading. His philosophy that "you always need something to look forward to" perfectly captures why golf trips, relationships, and new ventures keep the game eternally engaging.Join us for this wide-ranging conversation that touches on everything from Matt's top course recommendations (Oakmont and Maidstone make his list) to why he believes Sand Valley might be the ultimate golf destination. His honesty, humor, and passion for the game make this episode an essential listen for anyone who loves golf's past while embracing its future.We hope you enjoy this week's episode, and if you do, please consider leaving us a review on either Spotify or iTunes. Thank You!

More details have emerged about a man who was shot by police in a village near MaidstoneFootage from body-worn cameras shows he was wielding a chainsaw and wearing a gas mask – and had what officers thought was an improvised explosive device. Also in today's podcast, a mum whose son suffered heat exhaustion at school as temperatures hit 32 degrees says making pupils wear trousers during a heatwave is “inhumane”.The 12-year-old has to collected from school as he felt “dizzy and unwell” on what was the hottest day of the year so far.There's also a warning for local traders who have been told there's no excuse for still selling single use vapes.It's after a ban came in more than a month ago – since then more than 24,000 non compliant devices have been seized across the county. A Kent Police officer has been jailed after persuading relatives to take the rap for two speeding offences he had committed.The officer who worked at Medway Police Station, pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice after family members claimed they had been driving the car.And in sport you can hear from the Gillingham manager after victory in their pre-season friendly against Dover. Gareth Ainsworth says it was good to see some young players get some game time in the 1 – nil win. 

A man has been seriously injured after being shot by police at an address near Maidstone.Kent Police have confirmed they were in Hollingbourne last night to make an arrest when a firearm was discharged.The Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed it is investigation.Also in today's podcast, staff at a Kent animal sanctuary say they are shocked and heartbroken over the theft of one of their goats.Taco had only been at Buttercups for just over 24 hours when he was taken.We've been getting an update from the boss behind the restoration of the Leas Lift in Folkestone.The historic landmark has been closed since 2017, but work is now well underway to bring it back to life.Once the £6.6 million renovation is complete it'll carry passengers from the promenade to the seafront.A paramedic working in Kent has been telling us how it feels when former patients reach out to say thank you.Callum Burnett is part of the Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex team - giving life saving support to the most critical cases across the county.And in sport, Gillingham play their first pre-season friendly tonight.They're travelling to take on Dover Athletic at the Crabble - hear from midfielder Jonny Williams.

A Kent woman says she's been forced back into homelessness and is “living out of carrier bags” after being “kicked out” of her makeshift home.Kelly Cardwell said her life was finally getting back on track after a year of sofa surfing when she found a converted garage room to rent – but council have told her she has to leave. Also in today's podcast, we've been hearing from a Kent charity, on how to spot the subtle signs of alcohol dependency in the work place.It's a new campaign from the Kenward Trust in Yalding - which will feature real life stories from people who alcohol use impacted their working lives. A new inclusion centre will open in Kent next month, to help support children with additional needs who are struggling in mainstream education. The Daffodil Project will offer programs for so-called "corridor kids" - who are at risk of being left behind or isolated because of unmet needs.Fierce objections have been raised against plans for 45 houses and a 66-bedroom care home on a farmer's fields with a neighbour claiming it will “absolutely spoil” the town.The proposed development, which also includes the potential to transfer land to Sandwich Technology School for a new sports pitch, has been put to council. And kmfm's campaign to replenish food banks in Kent during the summer holiday is back for 2025.Last year, you donated more than 9-point 2 tonnes of tins that were distributed across the county – on today's podcast you car hear from one of the charities who will benefit. 

Dreamland says it is supporting the emergency services in their enquiries after the death of a 21-year-old man at a drum ‘n' bass festival.You can hear from a KentOnline reporter who was at the event in Margate – which was shut down hours earlier than planned following the tragic incident. Also in today's podcast, a grieving family in Herne Bay believe a 73-year-old father was “put in an early grave” after being attacked by teenagers who left him lying helpless in the rain.He was walking home to his flat when he was targeted by thugs near the seafront last December. We've spoken to fire bosses after number of blazes broke out over the weekend in the hot weather. Call outs included to a top-rated fish and chip shop which was forced to close after suffering from a fire in the early hours of Sunday morning.There are concerns a strong, “toxic” smell coming from a new roundabout could be harmful to people's health Work finished on the roundabout near Maidstone last November – we've heard from a motorist who thinks he knows the source of the “chemical” smell. And the date has been revealed for when new overnight parking charges and a ban on caravans at a scenic seafront dubbed a “squatter camp” will come into effect.The measures come after Sheppey residents raised their concerns people were living there more than a year ago. 

A man who murdered a grandfather from Tunbridge Wells has been told he'll spend at least 25 years behind bars.Stephen Castle hid Wayne Woodgate's body in woodland after attacking him over a long-standing grudge last October.The 59-year-old from Hastings Road near Matfield was found guilty by a jury following a trial last month.Also in today's podcast, a teenager from Maidstone who left his neighbour with more than 50 stab wounds has been jailed.Police were called to reports of a disturbance at a building in Fairmeadow last September. Hear the moment the 19-year-old was arrested.The prime minister's made big adjustments to his planned welfare reforms following pressure from Labour MPs.It means those with disabilities who currently receive the Personal Independence Payment will continue to get it. It's good news for people like 17 year-old Lukas from Ashford who had his leg amputated because of a rare condition he was born with.A Kent weight loss expert is urging people who've turned to jabs to shed the pounds to make sure they're getting the right support.It's thought around one and a half million people in the UK are using the likes of Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic.Thousands of people are expected at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham tomorrow for Armed Forces Day.There'll be military parades, bands and a service paying tribute to the skill and sacrifice of our armed forces - hear from Medway Council leader Vince Maple who will be there.Football, and Gillingham fans have been planning their season after the fixtures were released.They'll kick off their league two campaign away at Accrington Stanley on August 2nd - we just a full roundup from our sports reporter Luke Cawdell.

A couple say their new build home in Kent is still suffering from flooding issues eight years after they moved in.The most recent happened during a severe storm earlier this month when water got into the front room of the building in Aylesham Village near Canterbury. Hear from reporter Millie Bowles who has been following the story.Also in today's podcast, two housing estates in Maidstone could receive funding for upgrades, after being selected for a "trailblazing neighbourhood" scheme.Senacre and Park Wood will receive £20 million over the next ten years as part of community-led renewal efforts.One of Kent's new Reform UK councillors has told us we'll be 'blown away' by what a DOGE team have uncovered at county hall.They were sent in to examine the finances at the county council after the party swept to victory at the local elections in May. Hear from Councillor Maxwell Harrison who is the new deputy cabinet member for communications and engagement.The next phase of a £60 million regeneration project is due to get under way in part of Maidstone.More than 100 new homes are already being built in Shepway.A terminally ill Rochester woman has had her tongue rebuilt after a sore in her mouth turned out to be cancer.Emma Byron was first diagnosed in 2023 before the disease returned the following year. She's now decided to do a 200-metre-high zip line above Lake Bled in Slovenia and has been speaking to reporter Charlotte Philips.Students have moved into a multi-million-pound new building aimed at doubling the intake at Teynham Primary School.Plans for expansion of the site near Sittingbourne were submitted in 2023 and work began last spring.And in sport, Kent's Alex Mitchell and Ben Earl have arrived in Australia for a tour with the British and Irish Lions.It follows their defeat to Argentina in Dublin on Friday night.

People in Herne Bay have been left living in fear as the town is increasingly plagued by violent and anti-social youths branded “wannabe gangsters”.A public meeting has been called for later this month, where police and councillors will face questions from fed-up residents and businesses desperate for action.Also in today's podcast, the owner of an indoor adventure centre says he will ban for life the person responsible for causing thousands of pounds of damage to a SEN feature.Bosses say the area of Adventure Kidz at Aylesford's Quarry Wood Retail Park will cost around £2,500 to fix. You can hear from workers at a charity shop who have revealed their “constant battle” against thieves as clothes, shoes and even furniture handles are stolen.Staff at Making a Difference to Maidstone describe the surge in shoplifting as a “slap in the face”, amid a 55% increase in thefts over the last four years.Organisers of a decades-old village fete were left stunned after being asked to pay out almost £2,000 for security staff.The parish council has stepped in to save the annual event in Hawkhurst, but has had to blow 60% of its annual community events budget on hiring the six guards to enable it to go ahead.And eighty traders have already signed up to join Kent's largest indoor market ahead of its opening later this month.The former Wilko store in Folkestone town centre is being turned into the county's second Petticoat Lane Emporium.

A Sevenoaks man who led police on a 130 mile per hour chase before crashing, has avoided being sent to prison.Lee Twinley, 20 from Manor Road in Sundridge, was followed for 20 minutes on the M25 and M11 towards Cambridge back in March. Hear the moment he was tracked by a police helicopter.Also in today's podcast, a Maidstone mum has told us how her baby's initial diagnosis of bronchiolitis turned out to be a life-threatening heart condition.Leila was born in October last year but became ill less than two months later and was rushed to hospital.The boss of a youth group in Thanet has explained how the loss of their current home would be devastating.Pie Factory Music host activities, events and workshops for under-25s at Ramsgate Youth Centre which is at risk of being sold. Three youth workers have been on a fundraising cycle as they look to buy it.One of Kent's oldest company directors has told us he has no intention of retiring.Derek Ward is 92 and still works six days a week at Envirograf in Barfrestone, near Dover. He's been chatting to our reporter Sam Lennon.And in sport, the Gillingham manager says he can't wait to have Bradley Dack in his squad next season.The 31-year-old's agreed a new year-long contract at Priestfield.

Crash investigators want to hear from anyone who saw a lorry that overturned on a slip-road on the M20 causing seriously delays.It happened on the coastbound exit at junction 9 yesterday afternoon closing the motorway for more than 12 hours.Also in today's podcast, a Kent landlord accused of assaulting and threatening a council worker has had his trial delayed for the 13th time.Fergus Wilson is alleged to have got in a confrontation with the employee in Maidstone four years ago but his hearing has suffered a series of set backs.The man sent in by Reform UK to head up the so-called DOGE team, examining expenses at Kent County Council, has announced he's stepping down.Nathaniel Fried will leave the role after Reform Chairman Zia Yusuf also said he was resigning.Senior bosses at two water companies that supply homes in Kent have been told they won't be paid bonuses.It'll impact Thames and Southern Water under new rules for firms that failed to meet environmental or consumer standards.People living in a Margate tower block say their service charge has gone up, but the building is being left to rot.Arlington House is an 18 storey property containing more than 140 flats next to Dreamland on the seafront. Hear from our local democracy reporter Dan Esson.New research from the NSPCC shows the majority of parents here in the South East believe they had a safer, easier and better childhood than their children.More than half said they wished they had the chance to play with their children more, but said they came up against barrier like cost of living.Kent's biggest Pride event happens this weekend - but it's going to be in a different venue.The Dane John Gardens in Canterbury can't be used because work's taking place to give them a facelift. We've been chatting to one of the organisers.And in sport, Maidstone's Alessia Russo has been named in the England squad for this summer's Euros.The Lionesses will be trying to defend their title in Switzerland.

Two men have been charged with murder, following a crash near Dartford that killed a four-year-old boy.Two Ford Rangers collided on New Barn Road in Southfleet on Sunday night a 24-year-old man remains in hospital in a critical condition.Reporter Davina Jethwa is on the podcast with the very latest.Also in today's episode, people living on an estate in Greenhithe fear someone will be seriously hurt following a spate of catapult attacks.A woman and child in a car were targeted at St Clements Lakes over the weekend and wildlife has also been killed.Hear from a resident and we've got a statement from police.A new campaign is being launched in to help young people across the county deal with violent situations.Clock it, Check it, Change it is an initiative from Kent and Medway's Violence Reduction Unit.There's going to be a review of a controversial decision to bring in new parking charges in Deal and Sandwich.Traders raised concerns the increase of nearly 40% at some sites would kill local businesses.It would have seen long-stay charges jump from £10.80 to £15 and our reporter Sam Lennon has been getting reaction from a local councillor.A campaign's started in Kent to try and encourage more women to get involved in football coaching.Research shows that 4 in 5 mums don't have any involvement in their children's sports clubs - however, more than a third want to give it a go.We've been chatting to the club development manager and one of the coaches at Faversham Strike Force FC.And in sport, England have been knocked out of the Women's National League following a 2-1 loss to Spain.Maidstone's Alessia Russo scored the only goal for the Lionesses in the first half, before the hosts came from behind to secure the win.

Armed police have been called after a man was seen staggering across a street “covered in blood”.The firearms officers remain in Cornwall Gardens in Canterbury following a suspected stabbing just this morning.Also in today's podcast, police have managed to recover a second memorial plaque that was stolen from a Kent churchyard.It's after two metal plaques listing the names of men who died in the First World War were taken from a churchyard in Chatham last week.A top Indian restaurant could have its licence stripped after a decade of hiring illegal workers on little to no pay.Owners of Tenterden's Badsha Indian Cuisine are accused of exercising a flagrant “disregard for immigration law” after racking up fines worth £120,000.You can hear from elderly residents of a retirement complex in Ashford who say they face the “barbaric and inhumane” upheaval of being moved out of their homes and into temporary accommodation for two years.Council bosses say they're replacing the “outdated” site but the tenants say they're worried about being “scattered” to various parts of the borough. And we've spoken to the trustee of a Kent charity that's holding a celebrity football match in Maidstone this weekend kmfm Breakfast presenter Rob Wills is taking part in the game between Rochester City and a team of ex-pros to raise money for My Shining Star. 

A pub landlord has stepped down from his role after a barmaid was overheard warning customers to ditch drugs moments before police arrived with sniffer dogs.It happened while two undercover officers were in the bar in Sandgate, during a covert operation targeting drug use in pubs and bars. Also in today's podcast, a court has heard a drunken clubber punched a taxi driver eight times in the face after she refused to pay for her £8 ride home.The 41-year-old, who is originally from Russia, had been on a night out in Maidstone and was said to be “aggressive from the off” when she jumped into the cab. A group of young people have been seen running amok at a derelict secondary school just days after a suspicious fire at the building.Firefighters have tackled a spate of suspected arson attacks at St John Fisher School in Chatham – it's led to calls for its demolition to take place sooner. Villagers fear there are “dark and depressing times ahead” after plans for a controversial 1,350-home estate were officially submitted.School facilities are also lined up for land in Chestfield. And an animal sanctuary has announced the birth of a snow leopard cub.She's been nicknamed “Little Lady” and was born at The Big Cat Sanctuary  – you can hear from one of her carers. 

A women's cup final in Maidstone has been abandoned after Palestine flags were reportedly waved in the crowd.Clapton CFC were taking on Dulwich Hamlet Reserves in the London and South East Regional Women's Football League Trophy final at the Gallagher Stadium.Also in today's podcast, firefighters are expected to stay at the scene of a huge fire in Gravesend for the next couple of days.Crews were called to the London Scrap Terminal on Crete Hall Road in the early hours of Monday where around 5,000 tonnes of scrap metal is thought to have caught alight.As events to mark the 85th anniversary of Operation Dynamo continue, it's been revealed how Sheppey played a vital role.Thousands of Allied troops were rescued by Little Ships from French beaches during the Second World War. Those ships gathered in Sheerness before heading to Ramsgate and then Dunkirk.Hear from Jenny Hurkett who is founder of the Bluetown Heritage Museum in Sheerness.We've also been hearing about the role of the RNLI during the operation.A group in Folkstone which connects the profoundly disabled with the gifted and talented is being recognised with a King's Award for Voluntary Service.Shepway Spectrum Arts runs inclusive music and arts sessions for people of all abilities. Kate's been chatting to founder Georgina Cartledge.In sport, Emma Raducanu says she's "proud" of overcoming illness to reach the second round of the French Open.And, Kent boxer Moses Itauma has delivered another top performance to see off American Mike Balogun.The 20-year-old heavyweight from Chatham claimed a Technical Knockout during the second round of the match in Glasgow.

Maidstone-based veteran selector Tomas Bexton - hot on the heels of his recent appearance at our last event @ OverDraught in Levenshulme, Manchester - here delivers his 3rd mix contribution for Avenue Red. This time Tomas is keeping things on the firmer side, with some icy blasts from the past in the world of deep, pulsating abstract techno. Feel the turbulence. "Obviously delighted and honoured with a third appearance on the musical vortex that is Avenue Red! My intention was to do something different to my other Avenue Red sets and attempt a dub-techno mix. However, this was the result. I went digging back into my humble techno collection, with some of the records featured purchased when I was still a teenager. Recorded in one take using 100% vinyl, this is about as hard as it gets for me. I hope that it resonates... big love to the global Avenue Red crew!" Tomas Bexton, May 2025 https://soundcloud.com/tomasbexton See Also: https://soundcloud.com/avenue-red/podcast-235-tomas-bexton https://soundcloud.com/avenue-red/avenue-red-is-10-tomas-bexton

Let us know what you think - text the show!On this week's show:Happy National Road Trip DayWedding RecapBurlington mayor's wife gets a raiseLt. Gov. and Weed Farmer Rodgers Pushes a Bill That Would Slash His Costs Spring sees spike in Vermont homicidesDon't abuse that corpseVermont opioid overdoses fell in 2024Youth in Vermont custody have been physically restrained hundreds of timesBurlington's guns in bars ban faces headwinds at StatehouseFood Not Cops meal program forced to moveHow do we become Citizens of the Year?Possible towing fee cap(50:57) Break music:  BarbieMode - “Tug Boat”​​https://barbiemode.bandcamp.com/track/tug-boat Meet ChatGVTRutland sip and shopStop the Bleed trainingResignation mulliganCVU students do a walk-out & Brattleboro as wellVT Coyotes hold a combineShweebee - the future of yard games(1:24:37) Break music:   Tinkerbullet - “Mannequin”https://tinkerbullet.bandcamp.com/track/mannequin-2 Scumbag mapMan hit by trainRichford woman charged with Medicaid fraudRutland police chief in scuffleFairhven stalker ruins prom nightMaidstone man shoots at neighbors homeWhatchu know bout Maidstone, VT?TD bank robbery in BrattleboroBrattleboro stabbingNew Fairhaven animal mayorThanks for listening!Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/VermontCatchup Follow Matt on twitter: @MatthewBorden4 Contact the show: 24theroadshow@gmail.comOutro Music by B-Complex

A group of travellers have won a landmark legal case against Medway Council to stay on a park and ride site.The families were given permission to stay on the land in Wigmore for three months from July 2023 is they paid a weekly fee, then were ordered to leave in the October.Reporter Davina Jethwa has been following the story and joins the podcast with all the details.Also in today's episode, a Maidstone drug dealer has been jailed after video was found of a manufacturing lab that was used to make tens of thousands of ecstasy pills.Video at KentOnline shows footage that was discovered on Jamie Stacey-Evans' phone.Leaders in Sevenoaks have been told their days in charge are numbered after nine Conservative councillors quit the party.They've formed a new group called West Kent Independents and the Tories no longer have overall control of the authority. Hear from the leader of the Lib Dems in the area.Inspectors have reported significant changes at a Kent school previously criticised for the number of fights and high levels of truancy.Ofsted have been back to Sandwich Technology School to check on safety, behaviour and attendance. Simon Sharples took over as headteacher in January and has been telling us about their success.A petition has been launched to protect five oak trees on the Hoo peninsula from a potential road widening scheme.It's feared developers behind plans for a new 760-home estate near High Halstow could chop down trees on Christmas Lane.Events are taking place in France to mark the 85th anniversary of one of the most incredible rescue missions during the Second World War.Privately owned Little Ships from England were used to collect Allied soldiers from beaches at Dunkirk in 1940. Reporter Gabriel Morris is in Dunkirk.And in sport, Ashford United's Gary Lockyer has collected the award for scoring the most goals in this season's FA Cup.The 32-year-old netted 10 during their campaign to the third qualifying round.

Following reports that a man had been seen streaking in a park in Maidstone, Kent, police officers were sent to the home of a notorious self-described naturist. The man had a reputation in the area for wearing see-through clothing, if any at all. When confronted by the police in the past, he had done nothing more than laugh, so the attending officers felt the situation would be resolved quickly. It wasn't the case this time. The confrontation took a darker turn…*** LISTENER CAUTION IS ADVISED *** This episode was researched and written by Eileen Macfarlane.Edited by Joel Porter at Dot Dot Dot Productions.Script editing, additional writing, illustrations and production direction by Rosanna FittonNarration, additional audio editing and mixing, script editing by Benjamin Fitton.To get early ad-free access, including Season 1, sign up for They Walk Among PLUS, available from Patreon or Apple Podcasts.More information and episode references can be found on our website https://theywalkamonguspodcast.comMUSIC: Nuclear Conception by Alice in Winter Just A Dream by CJ0 Handmaids Escape by CJ Oliver The Last Straw by CJ Oliver Arcadia by Cody Martin Artisan Craft by Cody Martin Every Life Matters by Cody Martin Far From Home by Cody Martin Forbidden Wing by Cody Martin Forsaken Ritual by Cody Martin Kalahari by Cody Martin Loaves & Fish by Cody Martin Peril Preparation by Cody Martin Stone Table by Cody Martin The Fall by Cody Martin Negative Thoughts by Craig Allen Fravel Ripley by Falls SoothingDrones by Lincoln Davis Undernight by Lincoln Davis Night Watch by Third Age Distances by Salon Dijon Mystery by Third Age A Most Unusual Discovery by Wicked Cinema Crooked Man by Wicked Cinema SOCIAL MEDIA: https://linktr.ee/TheyWalkAmongUsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/theywalkamongus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's over! The 2024-25 season is done and dusted - but before it truly ends, our 41st and final episode of a campaign to remember is here for you to enjoy. It was a heartbreaking end to the season for Maidstone - our roving reporters Nick and Cian talk us through their experience of the play-off final defeat, before we hear from Jordan Higgs and Temi Eweka following the loss which consigns them to another season in the National League South. League allocations have been confirmed and there was a surprise name in the shape of AFC Greenwich Borough - and one of the men behind the new arrivals, Gary Fiore, tells us all about it. And we hear from the team who arguably had the best season of anyone in the county - record-breaking Ramsgate steamrolllered their way to the Isthmian South East title and boss Ben Smith reflects on their achievements and looks ahead to next year.Thank you all for listening to us this season, have a great summer and we'll see you all in 2025-26. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An Englishwoman, an Irishwoman, a Greek and an Australian walk into a DJ booth... No, it's not the start of a joke, it's the latest episode of the Scummy Mummies Podcast! Our guests are the hilarious comedians Riona O'Connor and Olga Thompson. Due to an administrative error, we find ourselves crammed into an unpleasantly warm enclosed space. We get up close and personal about pretty much everything - body confidence, the menopause, Jedward, friendship, school WhatsApp groups, ageing, the Crowded House origins story, raising teens, mental breakdown, and what to do if your tortoise has a prolapsed anus. Plus we play a revealing round of I Have Never: Menopausal Old Slags' Edition.For more brilliant stuff from these legends, plus details of their upcoming tour dates, follow @rionaoconnor_ and @big_fat_greekmother. And check out Olga's fantastic book about growing up in a Greek hair salon, Split Ends. WE ARE BACK ON THE ROAD! Our new show Hot Mess is coming to theatres all over the country in 2025 and beyond. Many shows are SOLD OUT already so get your tickets NOW for Wellingborough, Maidstone, Dorchester, Brighton, Henley-on-Thames, Nottingham, Taunton, Bristol, Poole, Buxton, and many more... Visit scummymummies.com for dates and tickets. *WE HAVE A SHOP!* Visit scummymummiesshop.com for our ace t-shirts, mugs, washbags, sweatshirts and beach towels. FREE UK DELIVERY! We're on X, Instagram, and Facebook @scummymummies. If you like the podcast, please rate, review and subscribe. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Dover woman has ended up in court after finding out the dog she rescued was an XL Bully.The 55-year-old thought she'd adopted a Staffordshire bull terrier, but called police for advice when a neighbour raised concerns.Also on today's podcast, the sea at 29 beaches in Kent is going to be tested to make sure it's safe for us to swim in.KentOnline's been told how experts will regularly monitor the water during the summer season which runs until the end of September.More than 40,000 young people in Kent have signed a Commitment Pledge to not carry a knife, and report someone they know is.It's something set up by the Violence Reduction Unit in the county and police team that visits schools. Hear from crime commissioner Matthew Scott as we mark knife crime awareness week.The owner of a new takeaway near Maidstone is urging people to give him a chance, after a backlash over the serving of halal meat.Zam Haidari is the director at Coxheath Pizza and Chicken, but he's come under fire for using halal-certified meat which some animal welfare groups have called unnecessarily cruel. Zam has been speaking to reporter Elli Hodgson.More than £10,000 has been donated to a Sittingbourne family so they can convert their home to accommodate their poorly son.Six-year-old Reuben Whitehead has to be connected to a feeding tube up to 16 hours a day after being born early and developing complications. We've been chatting to the friends who set up the fundraiser.A swimming club chairman's warned they may have to pull out of a national competition this summer following the closure of their normal training facility.Competitors haven't been able to use Folkestone sports centre after it suddenly shut last summer.It's been confirmed the site has been taken over - but it's unclear when it might re-open.

A former cage fighter from Folkestone has been locked away indefinitely after he attacked a stranger in the street.Kiane Trotman, 38, from Foord Road South, was experiencing paranoid schizophrenia when he punched and kicked his victim near the Canterbury Road Recreation Ground in 2023.Also in today's podcast, the new Reform UK leader of Kent County Council has appeared to backtrack on the party's plans to stop staff working from home.Party leader Nigel Farage said he wanted to get people back in the office, after their success in the recent local elections. Hear what Linden Kemkaran has now had to say.Our campaign calling for reforms to who's eligible for a Blue Badge has been raised in the Commons by one of Medway's MPs.We want the system changed after hearing from cancer patients who've been denied one.The route for this year's Baton of Hope relay through Kent and Medway has been revealed,The Olympic-torch style baton will be passed to volunteers as it makes its way through Gillingham, Rochester, Maidstone, Canterbury and Margate.It's to raise awareness of suicide prevention by encouraging everyone to talk openly about mental health struggles. We've been speaking to one of the baton bearers.There are fears a hike in parking charges in Sandwich and Deal could impact the number of people visiting the towns.The council say the decision's been made following a comprehensive review - looking at supply and demand and planning for the future. Our reporter Sam Lennon has been to Sandwich to get reaction.In sport, Maidstone United have missed out on a chance of promotion to the National League.They were beaten 1-0 away at Boreham Wood in yesterday's play-off final.Elsewhere, Whitstable Town's players have been on an open top bus parade through the town to celebrate their historic FA Vase win.They were joined by staff and all important trophy as they travelled through the streets on Saturday.

Ooh, look at us, sifting through evidence and sipping on fizz with the excellent Drunk Women Solving Crime! Listen in as we join Taylor and Hannah to discuss parenting fails, suppository etiquette, and what happens when nuns go wrong. If you enjoyed this episode you can find many more DWS bangers wherever you get your podcasts! And why not go and see them live?Also, WE ARE BACK ON THE ROAD! Our new show Hot Mess is coming to theatres all over the country in 2025 and beyond. Many shows are SOLD OUT already so get your tickets NOW for Wellingborough, Maidstone, Dorchester, Brighton, Henley-on-Thames, Nottingham, Taunton, and many more... Visit scummymummies.com for dates and tickets. *WE HAVE A SHOP!* Visit scummymummiesshop.com for our ace t-shirts, mugs, washbags, sweatshirts and beach towels. FREE UK DELIVERY! We're on X, Instagram, and Facebook @scummymummies. If you like the podcast, please rate, review and subscribe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cockroaches have been discovered at one of Kent's top hotels during a food hygiene inspection.The insects were found in several traps in the basement and floating in a pool of water in the kitchen of the luxury hotel in Canterbury.Also in today's podcast, a prolific thief who stole two bottles of wine says he “went off the rails” after his cousin died in a motorbike accident.He went into a Co-op in Maidstone to steal the alcohol in March despite a court order banning him from entering certain stores in the town.You can also hear from Kent business owners who say their trade more than halved after a sinkhole appeared nearby. There are fears it could happen again, with water already seen leaking from the repaired carriageway. Disappointed parents say their children with special needs are being “failed” as funding for a “lifeline” service is slashed.It's after Kent County Council withdrew part of its budget for the National Autistic Society's Kent day centre, known as SAND, last month – we spoken to families who have been affected. And plans for a new petrol station and shop on Sheppey have been revealed to help deal with a population boom. Operators are eyeing up land in Minster to meet the demands of the 17-thousand homes planned for the area. 

A Kent Police Inspector is due to face a misconduct hearing after being found guilty of assaulting a woman.James Beautridge was suspended from duty after the attack in Maidstone in September 2023.Also in today's podcast, a refugee charity's calling on the Prime Minister to apologise for language he used in a speech about immigration.Sir Keir Starmer was laying out plans yesterday to reduce the number of people coming to the UK, and said without new rules we risk becoming an 'island of strangers'. We've been speaking to the CEO of Care4Calais.Businesses in Maidstone have been left clearing up after a number of windows were smashed with a fire extinguisher.Footage at KentOnline shows a topless man targeting a number of buildings on King Street on Sunday night and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.We've been hearing from Southeastern about what they plan to do to improve the reliability of services across Kent.It's as new data shows trains from Higham, Greenhithe, Northfleet and Swanscombe railway stations are the most likely to be cancelled.They are part of the Thameslink line which is one of the most complex in the country. As mental health awareness week continues, the head of a Kent secondary school has been telling us about their initiative to help improve students' mental health.The Skinners' Academy, in Tunbridge Wells, have created the EkoZona - an outdoor learning environment with an eco-toilet, fire bowl and solar panels.And, for the first time in 800 years - a building in Dover has permanently opened to the public after a multimillion pound refurb.The Maison Dieu now has interactive displays and audio points telling its history.

A Kent mum fears she could be left homeless with her elderly, ill nan if the council can't find her a property.Nina Darbey has been privately renting her home for six years but the landlord wants to sell up. The 46-year-old has been telling the podcast how she's been unable to find another home she can afford, and is struggling to bid for a council house.In other news, police, firefighters and paramedics have been called after a blaze broke out at a former school in Chatham.Part of the old St John Fisher Catholic School in Ordnance Street was taped off last night. Hear from reporter Brad Harper who was at the scene.Today marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day - the end of the second world war in Europe and events are taking place across Kent to mark the occasion.We've been speaking to teachers at Bradfields Academy in Chatham, a 90-year-old man from Dartford who remembers VE Day in 1945, they Mayor of Broadstairs where a beacon will be lit tonight, and the RBLI who're encouraging us to get active to mark the anniversary.And in sport, Whitstable Town fans are being warned of travel disruption ahead of the FA Vase final this weekend.Around 7,000 supporters will be heading to Wembley from Kent for the match against AFC Whyteleafe.

Play-off highs and lows take centre stage as there's promotion joy for two of our sides, coupled with heartbreak for two others. Dover lead the way after securing an instant return to National League South, and we hear from keeper Mitch Walker and chairman Jim Parmenter. VCD are also celebrating after their SCEFL play-off glory, and joint bosses Ross Baker and Danny Joy revel in their success. We also discuss Maidstone, SIttingbourne and Dartford, and then look forward to the biggest day in the history of Whitstable Town as they head to Wembley - player-manager Jamie Coyle looks head to the big game with AFC Whyteleafe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's it like to headline a stage at Glastonbury? Who is more fun to hang out with, Mickey Rourke or Alan Titchmarsh? What item you could buy from a Robert Dyas does Mariah Carey insist on having at her parties? Answering all these questions is DJ Nikki Beatnik! She tells us about Mums That Rave and how her amazing daytime parties are taking over the world. There's a bit of serious chat as we discuss sexism in the music and theatre industries. And we talk about the trials of accepting a prestigious award while simultaneously trying to sort out your son's Roblox login. Plus, we play an amazing round of True or False, and find out how Nikki managed to offend Jordan from New Kids on the Block. We bloody LOVE Mums That Rave and strongly suggest you get yourself down there - this week's event is sold out, but tickets are available for Birmingham on 7 June and London on 12 July. Go to mumsthatrave.com and follow Nikki @djnikkibeatnik and @mumsthatrave.WE ARE BACK ON THE ROAD! Our new show Hot Mess is coming to theatres all over the country in 2025 and beyond. Many shows are SOLD OUT already so get your tickets NOW for Chelmsford, Worthing, Cardiff, Worcester, Trowbridge, Wellingborough, Maidstone, Dorchester, Brighton, Henley-on-Thames, Nottingham, Taunton, and many more... Visit scummymummies.com for dates and tickets. *WE HAVE A SHOP!* Visit scummymummiesshop.com for our ace t-shirts, mugs, washbags, sweatshirts and beach towels. FREE UK DELIVERY! We're on X, Instagram, and Facebook @scummymummies. If you like the podcast, please rate, review and subscribe. Thank you for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob and Joe look back at the North and South playoff semi finals as Scunthorpe, Chester, Boreham Wood and Maidstone all progress. Christian gives us his take on the North semis and the final of the Northern Premier Division and one of regulars was left feeling triumphant in the Southern Playoff It was the last week of the regular season in the National League and it was one season too many for Maidenhead as they and Dagenham go down but Wealdstone stay up. Rob gets the thoughts of Aldershot boss, Tommy Widdrington with the FA Trophy on the horizon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A homeowner has issued a stark warning after he says his life was “destroyed completely” by having an HMO next door.The resident in Sittingbourne was stunned to wake up and find scaffolding and the roof missing on the adjoining property in the terraced street.Also in today's podcast, a mum has branded Medway council “clueless” after it wrongly refused her 17-year-old daughter a parking permit — and then asked for hers back as well.She'd applied on behalf of the learner driver for an additional pass to park outside the family's terraced home in Gillingham but the authority insisted they aren't living within a controlled parking zone. People living at an retirement complex fear “every day will become a nightmare” if a live music venue opens directly opposite.Those living in Folkestone town centre say the prospect of late-night music and “people drinking on the street” is making them “incredibly anxious”.Plans have resurfaced to convert a pub into a place of worship - just six months after they were refused.Charity Al-Haqq Academy initially wanted to transform the ground floor of the now-closed public house into an academy with community and religious services, including a prayer hall, a food bank, a youth club, and a mosque.And there's been plenty of football action across the long weekend – with Gillingham FC, Maidstone United and Dover Athletic all having reason to celebrate. We've spoken to their managers about unbeaten streaks, league finals and promotion. 

The plan was for the Fantastic Four to go on a short little trip. That was all. Just a short trip and then boom....back to the old nine to five grind. But we ran into a little problem, didn't we. Well, hi there! Welcome to our wonderful treaty on pools, tubs, water holes, and puddles. Hopefully you will learn something. If you do not, please do not sue us. The "Great Bath" at the site of Mohenjo-Daro in modern-day Pakistan was most likely the first swimming pool, dug during the 3rd millennium BC. This pool is 12 by 7 metres (39 by 23 feet), is lined with bricks, and was covered with a tar-based sealant. Swimming pools became popular in Britain in the mid-19th century. As early as 1837, six indoor pools with diving boards existed in London, England. The Maidstone Swimming Club in Maidstone, Kent is believed to be the oldest surviving swimming club in Britain. It was formed in 1844, in response to concerns over drownings in the River Medway, especially since would-be rescuers would often drown because they themselves could not swim to safety. he modern Olympic Games started in 1896 and included swimming races, after which the popularity of swimming pools began to spread. In the US, the Racquet Club of Philadelphia clubhouse (1907) boasts one of the world's first modern above-ground swimming pools. The first swimming pool to go to sea on an ocean liner was installed on the White Star Line's Adriatic in 1906. he Amateur Swimming Association was founded in 1869 in England, and the Oxford Swimming Club in 1909. The presence of indoor baths in the cobbled area of Merton Street might have persuaded the less hardy of the aquatic brigade to join. So, bathers gradually became swimmers, and bathing pools became swimming pools. According to the Guinness World Records, the largest swimming pool in the world is San Alfonso del Mar Seawater pool in Algarrobo, Chile. It is 1,013 m (3,323 ft) long and has an area of 8 ha (20 acres). At its deepest, it is 3.5 m (11 ft) deep. It was completed in December 2006. In 2021, Deep Dive Dubai, located in Dubai, UAE, was certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool reaching 60 metres (200 ft). The Y-40 swimming pool at the Hotel Terme Millepini in Padua, Italy, previously held the record, 42.15 m (138.3 ft), from 2014 until 2021. The Fleishhacker Pool in San Francisco was the largest heated outdoor swimming pool in the United States. Opened on 23 April 1925, it measured 1,000 by 150 ft (300 by 50 m) and was so large that the lifeguards required kayaks for patrol. It was closed in 1971 due to low patronage.   To check out some wet art, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/04/14/ff-9-last-splash/   We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u   You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!  Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need.  http://www.heroinitiative.org/ Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Shake Your Leg by Sascha Ende Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 001 by Sascha Ende

There are fears horror stories from the county's A&E departments have left many patients afraid to seek urgent hospital treatment.Reports of sick people stranded for hours on trolleys in crowded corridors are having a knock-on effect on local surgeries.Also in today podcast, a drink driver was warned she could be facing jail after admitting to getting behind the wheel while over the legal limit for at least the third time.She was spotted by police at the wheel of her car in Maidstone in February “driving at excess speed” and going in a bus lane.Dozens of Evri couriers are being chased by debt collectors after their depot decided to install private parking cameras.Early time slot drivers at the depot in Strood were told ANPR cameras were going live in November to stop unauthorised parking – but more than 20 have received penalty notices. Ambitious plans for a new four-storey HMO building in the rear yard of an existing property in Maidstone town centre have been submitted.Housing bosses want to build a 10-bed house of multiple occupation in Week Street despite concerns over a lack of vehicle access. And in football, it was a big weekend for the Gillingham boss after he notched up his first win since joining the club. You can hear from Gareth Ainsworth and goal scorer Bradley Dack following their 1 – nil win over MK Dons at the weekend. 

Controversial plans for a 2,500-home estate near Sittingbourne are back on the agenda more than six years after they were first suggested.Developers want to put properties on farmland off the Sheppey way in Bobbing and say they've addressed concerns over open space, sports provisions and road links.Also in today's episode, an inquest into the death of a young girl at a music festival in Margate has heard more than 80 people were found with drugs at the event.17-year-old Emily Stokes suffered a cardiac arrest after taking MDMA at the drum and bass festival at Dreamland in June last year.A Kent MP is urging the government to do more to clear the backlog of crown court cases in Kent.Tris Osborne's told a debate in Westminster Hall more than 2,300 are waiting to be heard in Maidstone, with almost 900 due to be heard in Canterbury.A protester's been thrown out of a meeting as plans were discussed for new homes near Canterbury.Developers wanted to put 17 properties on land in Wingham, but it got heated during talk about a pedestrian crossing on Preston Hill near the busy A257 - the main road through the village.And in sport, it was another draw for Gillingham in league two last night as it finished 1-1 at Chesterfield.Elliott Nevitt scored for the Gills before the home side equalised on 77 minutes.

A Kent nurse has backed calls for more education among healthcare workers on a condition that left her in extreme pain.Nicole Scott from St Mary's Island was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2023 following years of being told the problem was 'in her head'.Also in today's podcast, a group who trafficked women to the UK before getting them to work at brothels in Kent have been jailed.Some of the victims were forced to work at sites in Canterbury, Chatham, Dartford, Gillingham, Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells.The MP for Dover and Deal is urging the Conservatives and Reform UK to drop their "posturing" over asylum issues.Mike Tapp says Labour is taking action by using counter-terror powers to disrupt people smuggling networks.The brother of a Medway woman is hoping to continue her legacy of helping others to detect breast cancer early.29 year-old Leonie Botten passed away last June following a 16-month battle with the disease which spread to her liver.Jamie Botten says her campaign to raise awareness should continue.A charity that supports the work of a special care baby unit in Kent has launched it's biggest ever campaign to raise a quarter of a million pounds.The Oliver Fisher Trust is also marking its 40th birthday this year.A Kent man who was held for 10 months after being captured by a guerrilla group in Colombia says the experience is still an inspiration.Tom Hart Dyke was travelling with a friend near the border with Panama while hunting for rare orchids.Despite being threatened with death, Tom managed to come up with the idea of a World Garden at his home of Lullingstone Castle in Eynsford.He even sketched it in his diary.

A Maidstone mum who punched her neighbour 20 times following a row about loud music has avoided prison...Amie Bray, 31, was living in shared accommodation on Randall Street when she carried out the attack on another woman in November 2023.The man who oversees the police in Kent has published his four year plan.Crime commissioner Matthew Scott says he wants to cut crime, support victims and build trust.Kent tourism bosses have told us their campaign to get international trains stopping in the county isn't over.That's despite news Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group have been given the green light to run services through the Channel Tunnel. We've been speaking to Jim Dawson from Visit Kent.A hard hitting campaign urging us not to stray onto railway lines in Kent has been launched.Network Rail have teamed up with British Transport Police as stats show more than half of us in the south east don't know about the electric rail.The boss of a Kent animal sanctuary is urging people to think twice before getting a rabbit - as she's overrun with abandoned ones.20 are currently being looked after at the Lord Whisky charity near Canterbury - hear from Margaret Todd who founded it.And in sport,  it was another draw for Gillingham last night in their game against Colchester United.The match at Priestfield ended 1-1 after Max Clark levelled from the penalty spot in the second half.

The daughter of a terminally ill Maidstone woman whose pain medication was stolen by a carer has spoken out after her sentencing.Lisa Cook's mother was undergoing treatment for breast cancer when she noticed tablets were going missing.Owners of a family-run restaurant in Staplehurst say they are frustrated and disheartened after allegedly falling victim to a large 'dine and dash'.A family of eight have been accused of leaving just £30 for a meal which should have cost almost £300 - we've been speaking to the restaurants regional manager.A reporter for KentOnline has shared her story following a cancer diagnosis that she says came out of the blue.Megan Carr found a lump on her neck while on holiday at the age of 23, which turned out to be thyroid cancer.A pensioner who successfully sued a Kent bus company after one of their vehicles drive past him and his wife has finally received his compensation.Arriva were ordered to pay David Poole £84 after a bus left the couple as they waited for the number 6 to take them from Maidstone to East Peckham.And in sport, the new Gillingham manager got a point in his first game in charge.It finished 1-1 at Harrogate on Saturday with both sides scoring from the penalty spot.

A small town goes viral, Ryder finds out what's happening in Maidstone, Recorder Camp, Lisa finds weird stories on the internet, Napster is a thing again, Nostalgia-Off (do YOU slap rice bags in the grocery store?) & more! Ryder and Lisa are brought to you by Always Plumbing & Heating at www.alwaysplumbing.ca

The only road through Britain's smallest town near Canterbury is set to shut for six months.It's so repairs can be carried out on a £1 million Grade II listed house in Fordwich, but there are fears the 6,000 drivers who use the route will be forced onto the A28 Sturry Road instead, causing congestion.Also on today's episode, a new road link between Kent and Essex is a step closer to being built.The government's given planning permission to the Lower Thames Crossing which will connect the A2 with the A13 and includes a new tunnel under the River Thames.Hear from Dartford MP Jim Dickson, Natalie Chapman from Logistics UK and Chris Todd from Transport Action Network.A Kent restaurant owner is calling for an urgent reform to business rates as the chancellor makes her Spring Statement today.Rachel Reeves is giving an update on the economy, as many employers still reel from the measures announced in her Autumn budget. We've been chatting to Clare Tierney who runs Smoqe in Rochester High Street.Almost two years after a cliff collapse closed a road in north Kent, two repair options have been put forward.The A226 Galley Hill Road in Swanscombe has been shut off to traffic since April 2023 an residents have been updated at a public meeting.A KentOnline campaign calling for changes to rules around who can get a blue badge has received support from a number of MPs.We've started Blue Badge Battle after a number of cancer patients revealed they were turned down. Maidstone rep Helen Grant is backing it and has shared her own personal story.And in sport, Gillingham have confirmed the arrival of Gareth Ainsworth as their new first team manager.He's left Shrewsbury Town to replace John Coleman who left the club yesterday.

My Story   Talk 11 Brasenose College, Oxford (1959-1962) Part 2 Welcome to Talk 11 in our series where I am reflecting on God's goodness to me throughout my life. Last time I finished by sharing with you how God powerfully spoke to me after a Philosophy tutorial through a verse in Psalm 119. Today I'll be talking in more detail about my spiritual experience at Oxford, which, looking back on it, was to be far more significant for my future life and ministry than the academic programme I was following. The most important thing a young Christian can do when going up to university is to make sure right from the start that they find, and have regular fellowship with, other Christians. There are two main ways of doing this, either by joining the Christian Union or by attending a local church – or preferably both, which is what I did. Christian Union and Local Church The CU at Brasenose was part of the OICCU – Oxford Inter-Collegiate Christian Union. Each college CU would have its own weekly meeting for prayer and Bible study, but there was also a regular Saturday night Bible Study held at the Northgate Hall, situated close to the Oxford Union building. This was well attended by Christians from across the whole university, and I became a regular attender at both these gatherings. I appreciated the opportunity to meet Christians from different denominational backgrounds, and, bearing in mind my experience of the Anglican chaplain at Brentwood School, was particularly pleased to discover that some Anglicans actually did profess the believe the Bible! However, much as I enjoyed fellowship with these good people, having been only recently baptised in the Spirit, and having begun to appreciate Pentecostal worship, I was very aware that something very important was lacking in their meetings – the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. Of course, things are very different today, but in those days the Charismatic Renewal had not yet begun and most Anglicans, who in my experience tended to view other denominations as somewhat inferior, were highly suspicious of, if not totally unaware of, the rapidly growing worldwide Pentecostal Movement. And, of course, I was eager to enlighten them! But first a word about the local Pentecostal church. At the time, the only Pentecostal church in Oxford was the Elim Church situated on the Botley Road just beyond Oxford Railway Station. I was keen to attend there because, however valuable membership of a Christian union may be, there really is no substitute for the life and fellowship of a local church. So throughout my time at Oxford I regularly attended on Sundays both the morning and evening services, which meant incidentally that I missed both lunch and dinner in college because the mealtimes clashed with the times of the services. More importantly, on my very first Sunday in Oxford, it was there that I met three other students who were from Pentecostal churches, which led to our meeting regularly for prayer and to the formation of the Students' Pentecostal Fellowship.     Students' Pentecostal Fellowship The students I met after church that first Sunday morning in Oxford were, Michael Collins who came from Dorchester AoG and was in his second year at St. Peter's Hall reading Engineering, and Gladys Bland and John Miles who, like me, were in their first year. Gladys was from East Ham AoG and was doing postgraduate work in English Literature at Somerville College, and John was from Gloucester AoG and was reading English at Regents Park College. We were all delighted to meet each other because up to then there had been relatively few Pentecostals attending university. We soon became firm friends and agreed to meet regularly together for fellowship and prayer, particularly for spiritual gifts and for Christian students from a different denominational background to be baptised in the Spirit. Michael had a friend called Philip who was already Spirit filled, and he joined our prayer group too. I will never forget the day, early in our first year, when there was a prophecy in one of those meetings that people of all denominations, including professors and university lecturers, would be baptised in the Spirit. As I've already mentioned, the Charismatic Renewal had not yet begun or, if it had, we had not heard of it, and to be honest, I really wondered if that could possibly happen. But it did, and in our own small way we were to be a part of it. What we didn't know then was that similar groups were forming in other universities. There were students from a Pentecostal background at Cambridge and London Universities too, and once we heard about this we naturally wanted to get in touch with them. And a key person to help us do that was Richard Bolt. Richard had been an Anglican ordinand but after he was baptised in the Spirit in an AoG church in Durham his course at Clifton Theological College was terminated because he was laying hands on other students and praying for them to speak in tongues. Shortly after this he was welcomed by AoG and became an Assemblies of God minister based in a small assembly in Colchester. However, as the Lord was using him in healing and in leading others into the baptism in the Spirit, Richard's ministry extended well beyond Colchester as he took time to travel to universities and colleges to encourage Pentecostal students and to pray for others who wanted to be filled with the Spirit. He was certainly a great encouragement to me and my family. My mother was baptised in the Spirit under his ministry. But before I knew anything about how the Lord was using Richard, the thought had already crossed my mind that we ought to form, at least in Oxford, a university society for Pentecostal students. The Baptists had what was known as The John Bunyan Society which met every Sunday afternoon in Regents Park College where John Miles was a student. He and I attended this quite often and I mentioned to him that I thought it might be good to have something similar for Pentecostals. As a result of this, John wrote to Aaron Linford, the editor of Redemption Tidings, the AoG weekly magazine, and asked for advice. And it was at this point that Richard Bolt told us about the Pentecostal students at Cambridge and London. All this led to a gathering in London early in 1961 when the Students' Pentecostal Fellowship (SPF) was formed. Richard Bolt was recognised as its Travelling Secretary and Donald Underwood, a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin, as General Secretary. We organised annual weekend house-parties where students were exposed to the ministry of Pentecostal leaders, and evangelistic missions where students would sing, testify, and preach during the summer vacations. We also published a magazine known as The Pentecostal and developed a postal library service where students could borrow books by Pentecostal authors. At Oxford our group grew in numbers during our second year, partly due to an influx of students from Culham College led by Andrew Parfitt, the son of the AoG pastor at Maidstone, but also because our prayers were being answered and students from other denominations were getting baptised in the Spirit. But that leads me to how I personally started to be used in leading others into the baptism. Leading others into the baptism It all began a few weeks after I had started at Oxford when, after one of those Saturday night Bible Studies in the Northgate Hall, I was looking at a book on the bookstall which was about a revival that had broken out somewhere in Africa. Chris, one of my Anglican friends from Brasenose, saw what I was looking at and asked me if I had any personal experience of revival. So I began to tell him about the baptism in the Holy Spirit. As a result, Chris started to seek the baptism and came along to the Elim church where the pastor laid hands on him and prayed for him. But nothing happened and after a few weeks Chris came to me and said, I want you to pray for me. I'm coming to your room tomorrow and I want you to lay hands on me and pray for me. I was frankly unsure how to respond to this. I was very new to all this myself and I did not know if I had the authority to lay hands on him. I didn't know if such things were the responsibility of pastors, and I wasn't a pastor. But Chris was very insistent and so I agreed. The next day was Saturday and there were no lectures or tutorials for me to attend, so I decided to spend the night in prayer. This was something I had never done before, and have not done very often since, but I realised the seriousness of what Chris had asked me to do and I wanted to get it right. When Chris came the next day, we chatted for a bit, and then he said, Well, are you going to pray for me or not? I think he may have sensed that I was putting it off because, despite my night of prayer, I was nervous about it. He knelt down in front of me, and I plucked up courage and, quietly speaking in tongues, gently placed my hands on his shoulders. But nothing seemed to happen, and I didn't know what to do, when I remembered that in the Authorised Version (which most of us were still using in those days) Acts 19:6 says that it was when Paul had laid his hands upon the Ephesians that the Holy Spirit came on them and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. In other words, the Spirit came on them after Paul laid his hands on them.  And I found myself prophesying over Chris that he would receive, and that he would receive that very day. At which, Chris got up, said thank you, and left me. And I was left wondering if I had done the right thing. I had my answer at eight the following morning. I was still asleep, having had no sleep the previous night, when I was woken by something digging me in my ribs. It was Chris with his umbrella. What was he doing here?             Oh, it's you Chris. What on earth are you doing here? And then it occurred to me that he might have come to tell me what had happened, so I added,             You haven't received the baptism, have you? To which he responded as he continued to dig me in the ribs,             O ye of little faith! He had, of course, received, and he told me how it had happened. After he had left me he had returned to his room and had been reading a book by, or about, the famous missionary to China, Hudson Taylor. The book emphasised that in addition to faith we need courage in our Christian lives, and Chris realised that that was just what he needed. He looked up from the book intending to say, Yes, Lord. Give me courage. But instead of doing so, he found himself speaking in tongues! Little did I know it then, but Chris was to be the first among hundreds, if not thousands, of people who have begun to speak in tongues through the ministry the Lord has given me. But that's closely related to the subject of spiritual gifts and how I began to exercise them. Beginning to exercise spiritual gifts Shortly after I was baptised in the Spirit I visited the bookshop at the AoG National Offices at 51 Newington Causeway, London. I bought every book they had on the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts. As a young Baptist I had received little teaching about the Spirit and none whatsoever on spiritual gifts. And I was eager to learn. I devoured books like Harold Horton's The Gifts of the Spirit and Donald Gee's Concerning Spiritual Gifts, and I learnt that the baptism in the Spirit is not an end in itself, but a gateway to supernatural gifts like tongues,  interpretation, prophecy, and healing. And I was longing to receive and be used in whatever gifts the Lord might have for me. As it happened, I didn't have long to wait. I was still in my first year at Oxford when I was confronted with a situation at the church I was attending. The Elim church in Oxford was a well-attended lively church where the gifts of the Spirit were regularly in operation. On a Sunday morning there were often prophecies, tongues and interpretation. Some of my Christian friends from Brasenose came along to experience Pentecostal worship and so far I had not been embarrassed in any way by what went on in the meetings. However, one Sunday morning, when fortunately none of my friends was present, somebody spoke in tongues but there was no interpretation. No explanation was given for this and, although I was still new to these things, I knew that the Bible was very clear that speaking in tongues in church should be interpreted. I probably should have asked the pastor about this, but he was a busy man and I did not know him very well. Consequently I kept quiet about the matter, but was still concerned that everything was not quite as it should be. Shortly after that, when Richard Bolt was visiting, I told him about this and asked him what I should do. He said, The answer is very simple David. You interpret. To which I replied, But I don't have the gift. He then said, Then ask for it. But, bearing in mind that 1 Corinthians 12:11 tells us that these gifts are given as the Holy Spirit determines, I asked, But I know God wants me to have it? His answer to this was along the following lines. The very fact that I was concerned about it might well indicate that God wanted me to have it. And, anyway, we know from God's word that it is his will that tongues in church should be interpreted. So I would be in God's will if I went ahead and interpreted it. I should pray about it and next time it happened I should ask God for the interpretation and then speak out in faith. Our heavenly Father gives good gifts to his children when they ask him. Although I still had questions, I decided to do what he said and over the next few weeks kept asking the Lord about the matter. Then, one Sunday morning it happened. Someone spoke in tongues and I waited, hoping that someone else would interpret it. But when no one did, I asked the Lord to give me the right words to say and immediately a few words came into my mind which I began to speak out in faith. I say in faith, but I have to confess that my faith was mingled with doubt. I was half expecting the pastor to intervene and say that this was not the right interpretation! But to my intense relief he said nothing, and after the meeting people came and thanked me for my interpretation. So from time to time, I continued to interpret tongues, but still with the occasional doubt if what I said could really be the interpretation. And later in the series I will tell you how God wonderfully confirmed the genuineness of my gift when I interpreted a tongue that was identified as a language spoken in Africa. God certainly did some wonderful things while I was at Oxford, and I realise now that I was already exercising a ministry while I was there. I was leading our SPF prayer group, teaching others about spiritual gifts, as well as preaching in churches from time to time. It seems that others were recognising this before I did, and I was soon asked to share my testimony at the AoG National Youth Rally held in the Birmingham Town Hall and to contribute an article in Redemption Tidings entitled Pentecost in Oxford University. The Lord was clearly preparing the way for my future ministry. Next time, I'll tell you about my developing relationship with Eileen which led to our marriage immediately after I graduated and how I ultimately decided not to go to Bible College as originally planned, but to accept the pastorate of the Assemblies of God Church in Colchester.

It's been revealed more than £4 million worth of taxpayers' money was spent on plans for a new development near Folkestone which never materialised.Bosses in the previous administration wanted to build 150 homes and a leisure centre at Princes Parade in Hythe, but the proposals were later scrapped. Hear from Jim Martin who is the current leader of the council.A Kent homelessness charity's revealed a 21% increase in demand for their services in the space of a year.Footfall at Catching Lives in Canterbury has gone up from around 11,000 in 2023, to more than 13,300 last year. We've been chatting to chief executive Tasmin Maitland.A Kent woman who lost her baby at 22 and a half weeks pregnant is welcoming a change in the law which will see bereaved parents get paid leave from work.Keeley Lengthorne has been campaigning since George was born in March 2022. She's told us how the announcement came on a very poignant day.For the first time in a generation, NHS patients have begun receiving blood plasma from donors from Kent.Donations had been paused in 1998 due to fears about the spread of mad cow disease - but a ban has now been lifted. We've been speaking to Denise Dowsing from Maidstone who has Common Variable Immune Deficiency and relies on medication made from plasma.In sport, Kent's Emma Raducanu's due in action at Indian Wells later.It's her first tournament back since spotting a stalker in the crown at the Dubai Championships last month.

Traders in a shopping centre in Ashford say a decision to demolish the site is "brutal"...The council have announced the closure-hit Park Mall centre will be temporarily replaced with a car park, while plans are considered for its redevelopment.Also in today's podcast, campaigners against a new road tunnel linking Kent and Essex have suggested a rail route instead.They have been setting out alternatives to the Lower Thames Crossing which they say will be smarter and cheaper.A coroner's ruled the death of a 22 year-old Ashford man who was hit by a train in Australia was a tragic accident.Luke Beaufils had been partying with friends before falling onto the tracks at a railway station on the outskirts of Sydney last March.Volunteers at a soup kitchen in Maidstone are asking the council for help, after being told they'll have to start paying for parking.Hungry Hearts for the Homeless have been serving rough sleepers in the College Road car park for the last seven years.A Kent MP is urging Sir Keir Starmer to make sure the government's tackling health inequalities in deprived areas.Polly Billington's spoken during PMQs in the Commons.Elsewhere, the MP for the Weald of Kent has spoken on the cost of granting asylum seekers indefinite leave to remain.

The family of a sub-postmistress “shunned in the street” after being convicted of stealing thousands from the branch she ran hope to finally prove her innocence 27 years on.Pat Owen was found guilty of theft from the post office near Canterbury in 1998 despite denying she had anything to do with a £6,000 shortfall in its accounts.Also in today's podcast, council bosses have confirmed a closure-hit shopping centre and neighbouring multi-storey car park are to be knocked down.Traders at the site in Ashford have been told they need to vacate the site by August 31 ahead of demolition work.A man has been banned from keeping animals after two horses he owned were found almost emaciated and riddled with lice.The owner from Maidstone said he only took them from a member of the Travelling community because they were not being cared for properly.You can also hear from a young woman  who is “allergic to herself” who says a cruel and undiagnosed disease has robbed her of her life.The 21-year-old's skin and body react violently to everything from laughing too much to the tears when she cries, which she says “feels like acid” is being poured over her face.And in football, a loss for Gillingham at Priestfield last night extends their winless run to 13 matches.You can hear from manager John Coleman who says his team looked scared to win.

Bacbeat is a diverse house DJ who although in the early stages of his journey has already captivated crowds in London, Ibiza and Africa. After recently playing in Studio 338 for Forward Motion and supporting Groove Armada at Ministry of Sound for their 33rd birthday weekender, Bacbeat is commanding dance floors with growing popularity. Joining Bacbeat for a 2 hour B2B is the Maidstone based DJ and Producer, FENN. Fenn is creating big waves with his production and crafting his sound at such a young age has already seen him support the likes of Ben Hensley and LF System as well as playing for respected brands such as Cafe Mambo, Foreverland and Lovejuice. Fenn's track 'MR DJ' has just hit 1M streams on Soundcloud and his 90's inspired sound has just secured him with his D4 D4NCE debut at O Beach in Ibiza in the coming season. With a promising future ahead, if you haven't heard of Fenn before, 2025 will certainly be the year you do. ⚡️Like the Show? Click the [Repost] ↻ button so more people can hear it!

This episode is for all the golf course design junkies and enthusiasts as we sat down with golf course designer Tyler Rae. He joined Gary Williams for a deep dive on his career in golf, some of his creative influences, top courses around the world, periods of time in course architecture and much more. He touched on his work at Lookout Mountain and Old Sawmill and talked in depth about Pinehurst No. 2, Seminole and Pine Valley.Rae has played the top 100 courses in the U.S. and 98 of top 100 in the world so his knowledge of great golf courses is amongst the elite and he loves the hidden gem courses of the world. He also listed his top courses in New England from Eastward Ho, Myopia Hunt Club and the Country Club; from Westchester, NY with Winged Foot, Somerset Hills and Mountain Ridge; Long Island with Shinnecock, Maidstone and National Golf Links; the Chicago area with Chicago Golf Club, Shoreacres and Beverly; and finally in the greater Philadelphia area with Pine Valley, Merion and Lancaster.

A look at the now closed, once former great Maidstone Granada cinema.

A nurse who called black members of staff monkeys and sent a topless picture of himself in fishnet tights to a junior colleague has been struck-off.Details of Alan Prew's behaviour at Medway Maritime Hospital have been revealed at a Nursing and Midwifery Council hearing.Also in today's podcast, volunteers looking after an ancient woodland near Maidstone say they're in desperate need of funding to continue to secure its future.Mangravat Wood in Loose was saved from a proposed Tesco development 25 years ago.Reform UK have won two seats on Medway Council after residents voted in by-elections.Candidates for the party have been elected in Rochester East and Warren Wood, meantime, Labour won the seat in Gillingham South.There are fears plans for new homes in Deal could cause a smell in the area to get even worse.People living in Northwall Road say there's already a bit of a stench. They reckon the new builds will aggravate sewer and drainage systems.Work on a £20 million revival project on Sheppey is under way..Contractors have moved in to start expansion work at Sheppey College in Sheerness - which will soon offer places to students aged 16 to 19 in creative, engineering and logistics subjects. In sport, Gillingham make the long trip to Barrow in league two this weekend.The Gills are currently 18th in the table - while tomorrow's opposition are just one place below them.John Coleman is still without a win after taking over from Mark Bonner as Gillingham manager.And, a non-league striker from Kent is hoping he can hold on to be the top goal scorer in this year's FA Cup  Ashford United's Gary Lockyer has ten goals in the competition which continues this evening.

Russ and Pete saw Everton were heading for the coast and thought “sod that!”, electing to follow The Mighty Rebels' fixture over in Kent, in an important promotion six-pointer. Surprise, surprise, the Everton game turned out to be a typically turgid, anti-footballing affair while The Stones v Rebels clash was entertaining and fun. R&P obviously took the opportunity to sample some of the local quaffables pre and post match and had the pleasure to sit down for a chat with some local fans, including Paul, who kindly agreed to have us record our conversation. All in all a good day out and a terrible PL abomination of a game cunningly avoided! Stand or fall!   UTA!  Rebels on a roll!!! @BrightonRockPod on BlueSky (and Twatter) brightonrockpodcast@gmail.com Part of the Sport Social Podcast Network that can be found in all their glory at this rather suitable address: www.sport-social.co.uk  Please follow us for automatic downloads of new episodes and if you want to make us really happy please rate us five stars on Apple and any other platforms that provide the opportunity to do so! Why not write a review while you are at it?! ;0).  All this helps our rankings and improves our chances of getting exciting guests onto the show. Also we are now on Patreon, so if you happen to be inclined to extreme acts of generosity we'd greatly appreciate any monthly donations, great or small, to help us run the pod as well as we can. Go to www.patreon.com/BrightonRockPod for details and to sign up. NB Our content will remain freely accessible to all listeners regardless. Humble thanks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Bailey stars as Guy Starling, a middle aged man who, after 45 years, and for reasons quite unknown to him, is suddenly revisited by his imaginary childhood friend, Hennikay.When Guy's great business idea – developing a phone-based app designed to stop people using phone based apps – unsurprisingly fails, he needs to find a job. And so he attends a sales seminar with Shining Path, who are apparently, "the number one providers of after-life finance packages in the UK".However, his attention is constantly derailed by the constant chatter of Hennikay, his imaginary childhood friend, who is still determinedly living in his head. And if that wasn't enough, he also has to cope with Tony, his old boss, who is also there, competing with him to land a job.But try as he might, Guy really can't get enthused by the idea of a career selling pre-paid funeral plans to the people of Maidstone. Was this what he thought his life was going to be, when he and Hennikay were young together, way back in 1976?Acclaimed comedian - and Strictly Come Dancing champion - Bill Bailey leads a series cast which includes Tony Gardner and Elizabeth Carling in this warm, funny look at childhood, adulthood and some of the follies of modern life, where a man with a confused child in his head might just be the sanest person in the room.Written by David SpicerGuy: Bill Bailey Hennikay: Max Lester Tony: Tony Gardner Stacia: Rebecca BoeyProducer: Liz Anstee A CPL production for BBC Radio 4

Danny Baker, the act you've known for all these years, is kicking his legs up again in 2025 on a thundering new theatre tour, ‘Aye Aye! Ahoy Hoy!' “Dead men tell no tales,” he points out, “so we might might as well get ‘em all told now.” This will be another barnstorming one-man circus - as, naturally, is this barrelling conversation with the two of us which collides with the following … … being shot, Welsh cake, an olive green Humber, goldfish, when videos were the size of a loaf of bread, why half his Maidstone audience got up and left, stolen gear being hustled over Waterloo Bridge, bad things done by Rod Stewart and Britt Ekland, ELP, the Average White Band, Max Miller, Kenneth Williams' loathing for Michael Aspel, when records become like furniture, getting £4k for a Ziggy Stardust white label, why he doesn't miss the 14,000 albums he sold, and the record that came out the same day as Sgt Pepper and Bowie's first album but is better than both. The podcast includes an extract from Ronnie Barker's “A Pint Of Old And Filthy” and Terry Thomas reading PG Wodehouse. Order tickets for Danny's 2025 tour here:https://www.dannybakerstore.com/Find out more about how to help us to keep the conversation going: https://www.patreon.com/wordinyourear Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.