Podcasts about Tonbridge

There's anger after dozens of trees on a road near Sandwich were cut down.The poplars that lined the A256 southbound heading towards Dover have been reduced to stumps with environmentalists concerned it happened during nesting season.However, landowners insist all the correct rules were followed.Also in today's podcast, the deputy leader of Medway Council says GP practices need to modernise to help meet a growing demand for appointments.Theresa Murray says younger doctors in particular don't want to be responsible for the mortgage on a surgery building - and would prefer to just have a salary.A former Kent journalist who's died at the age of just 40 has been described as a 'compassionate soul' with the 'kindest heart'.Tim Collins used to work for our sister newspaper the Kentish Express in Ashford before becoming a freelance writer.A woman who suffered severe injuries in a fall at her home has told the podcast how she's still waiting to be rehouses three years later...Denise O'Toole spent 10 months in hospital, including five weeks in a coma, after falling down the staircase at the property in Tonbridge.Figures from the Kent Wildlife Trust shows there's been another decline in flying insect populations.The Bugs Matter survey, which is carried out by counting the number of bug splatters on number plates, shows numbers have fallen by 8% between 2023 and 2024.And in sport, Sittingbourne are through to the Isthmian South East play-off final.They beat Merstham 4-2 last night after going the whole season unbeaten at home.

Shop workers in a Medway village say they've been left “traumatised” after a series of “shocking” attacks on the store.Staff at the newsagent in Hoo say they're suffering regular verbal abuse and have had display stands chucked at them and have even been threatened with acid.Also in today's podcast, an abusive man who assaulted his partner for almost two years and made her life an “absolute misery” has been jailed.The offences starting shortly after the pair met in July 2022 and included belittling the victim in front of her friends and family, constantly demanding to know her whereabouts and making insults about her appearance.A nursery has been rated ‘Inadequate' after Ofsted inspectors discovered staff were giving children medicine without the “required written permissions” from parents.The site on Romney Marsh was given the lowest grading possible after being visited by the government watchdog last month.Anger is mounting in Britain's smallest town as it remains shut off so repairs can be carried out on the mayor's house - despite work grinding to a halt last week.The only road through the town - a route used by thousands of motorists a day - was closed on April 7 for more than three months, leaving many facing travel misery.And in football you can hear from the Gillingham boss ahead of their final home game of the season. They're hosting Swindon Town and will be hoping to keep their ten game unbeaten run alive. 

A drug driver who crashed into another vehicle near Ramsgate leaving a man with life-changing injuries has been sent to prison.The 29-year-old pulled out onto a roundabout on the A256 without stopping and was later found to have cocaine in his system.Also in today's podcast, nearly 400 jobs at Morrisons are at risk after they announced closures, including two in Kent.The Daily store in Tonbridge is set to go along with the Market Kitchen facility in Gravesend.The KentOnline podcast has been told a programme to try and stamp out under age vaping in part of Kent is already showing signs of working.The Local Vape Action pilot launched in Tunbridge Wells last September. We've been speaking to trading standards.A Kent psychologist says young people are still struggling with the impact of the pandemic, five years on from the first lockdown.A new study's found more than a third of 18 to 25-year-olds have seen their mental health worsen since Covid.A 4,000 km relay visiting all 72 football league clubs gets under way today encouraging us to learn CPR.It's happening over the next 28 days and will visit Gillingham's Priestfield stadium on April 12.Hear from Charlie Edinburgh who is the son of former Gills manager Justin who died after suffering a cardiac arrest almost six years ago.And, a centre for five lions rescued from war-torn Ukraine has officially opened in Kent.Rori, Amani, Lira, Vanda and Yuna are settling into The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden, near Ashford after campaigners raised £500,000 to build enclosures specifically designed for them.

This week it's a trio of Matt's to discuss all things Tonbridge and Salisbury, before looking ahead to Dorking.

Join Simon and Joe, with appearances from Clive and Kirsty, to round up all things Boreham Wood and Chippenham before looking ahead to Tonbridge

Two men who kidnapped a drunk woman from a bar with the intention of sexually assaulting her are facing lengthy spells behind bars.They were caught on camera as they dragged and carried their limp victim away from Clique in Ramsgate's Harbour Parade to a property in nearby Kent Terrace.Also in today's podcast, a car enthusiast has been laid to rest on what would have been his 21st birthday after he died in a tragic accident.The young man from Tonbridge was killed when the car he was working on slipped off the jack and crushed him.There are fears three months of closures at a crossroads at Hawkhurst are set to bring lorry traffic chaos neighbouring communities. The intersection, where two A roads meet, is being upgraded but locals say it'll cause dangerous conditions. The national health watchdog has finally released its long-awaited findings following an inspection at one of Kent's busiest hospitals.And more than a year after the emergency department at Medway Maritime Hospital came under scrutiny, its rating has dropped from “good” to “requires improvement”.And in sport, you can hear from Gillingham manager John Coleman who admits his team were too open in defence in last night's defeat at Newport.They were beaten 3 – 1 and conceded all three goals in the first 30 minutes. 

A 39-year-old dad-of-four has been given the “crushing” news he has just 18 months to live as the cancer he hoped he had defeated has returned and spread.The Kent community has rallied to support Matt Jones following the devastating diagnosis, which has left him fearing his youngest children will “not even remember me when I'm gone”.Also in today's podcast, investigators have given an update following the shooting murder of a woman in Knockholt on Valentine's Day.Lisa Smith was gunned down outside a pub and police now believe her attacker has also died.Villagers have been left stunned after grass verges on their housing estate were marketed for sale for potential use by the “travelling community”.A listing on Rightmove for the narrow roadside plots near Canterbury revealed they were being auctioned off, with no prior warning to residents.You can hear audio of the moment a drug dealer was arrested and his weapons seized as police raided his home.He'd had been operating multiple cocaine supply lines across west Kent, known as the Scarface network.And two former Gillingham managers have united in a managerial partnership in League 1.Neil Harris and Mark Bonner have returned to Cambridge United to try and help them off the bottom of the table.

A Folkestone man who charged at his girlfriend with a knife after she went to the cinema without him has been locked up.The court heard Wayne Burford, 44, of Foord Road South had previous convictions for crimes against his partner, including for controlling and coercive behaviour.Also in today's podcast, a man who caused the death of an 18-year-old woman in a crash in Canterbury has been jailed for six years.Footage from body-worn cameras shows Jack Cracknell telling police he was speeding at the time of the collision. If you live in Tonbridge, you're being asked what you think on redevelopment plans around the Angel Centre.It's been confirmed a new leisure facility is going to be created and now, the council want to know what should be built on the surrounding land - to the east of the High Street.A year after a Folkestone road was closed following a landslide, bosses have admitted it may not re-open until 2026.Tonnes of debris has been removed from the Road of Remembrance - while drones have been used to survey the site.The owners of an business in Deal have admitted it'll feel strange not to be working - after deciding to shut up shop.Skinner's Electrical Supplies has been in the High Street for 14 years.It's been revealed the University of Kent is still spending £7,000 a month on a student bar which closed down five years ago.The lease on the Cargo Bar in Liberty Quays in Gillingham doesn't come to an end until 2029.Football, and Gillingham's winless run has continued.They've now gone eight games without a victory after losing 2-1 to Notts County at Priestfield on Saturday.A Kent wheelchair rugby club is looking for a new home, after losing the use of their sports hall.Gravesend Dynamite Wheelchair Rugby club has been using the Northfleet Youth Centre for eight years, free of charge.

The Chancellor's made a significant announcement on the future of a project to build another tunnel linking Kent and Essex.During a major speech on how to boost economic growth in the UK, Rachel Reeves backed the Lower Thames Crossing and revealed the government's looking at privately financing the £9 billion scheme.Also in today's podcast, the family of a woman found dead after going missing from Folkestone believe police may have missed opportunities to find her while she was still alive.Leah Daley was discovered at the Warren last May 12 days after she'd last been seen.A criminal gang linked to west Kent and thought to be making £7,000 a week through drugs have been jailed.The men were part of a cocaine network that was uncovered during a stop and search in Tonbridge.A decision to close a leisure centre in Deal for nine months is going to reviewed after a backlash from people who use it.We told you earlier this month how Tides is due to shut in April until a new operator's found to run it from next January.But those using the pool, tennis courts and sports hall weren't happy.A Medway councillor says he's prepared to call for a referendum over a bid for the Towns to be granted city status.Leader Vince Maple announced the authority's fifth push for the title at a meeting last week. Hear from Michael Pearce, who represents Hoo St Werburgh and High Halstow - and the leader.Elon Musk has been told to keep his 'hands off' the English Channel after suggesting it should be re-named.The Tesla boss posted on X suggesting the stretch of water is called the George Washington Channel instead. Reporter Sam Lennon has been finding out what people in Dover think.Football, and  it was another game without a win for Gillingham last night.They drew 1-1 at Grimsby Town after the hosts equalised with just seconds to spare. We've got reaction from manager John Coleman and goalkeeper Glenn Morris.

The idea of a multi-billion pound theme park in north Kent is officially over after the company behind it went into liquidation.We were told London Resort on the Swanscombe peninsula would attract millions of visitors and create thousands of jobs.But it faced several challenges, including from wildlife campaigners. We've been getting reaction from Buglife.Also in today's podcast, and in a rare move, a planning officer has stepped in to stop councillors rejecting plans for a 52 home estate in East Malling.The Tonbridge and Malling council committee were due to refuse the plans for Ivy Farm after receiving more than 200 objections.Following the inauguration of Donald Trump as US President yesterday, a Kent campaigner says his second term in office feels like a 'step backwards'.Sara Fox organised a march in Canterbury last weekend to express concerns about women's rights.An electric vehicle owner says he's been treated "unfairly" by the council - after being fined for leaving his car at a charging station in Deal.Tony Nagle pulled up at the West Street Car Park only to find his phone had gone flat, and he couldn't recharge his car without it.Also on today's episode you can hear from a Kent mum who's been telling us how she fought to make her local football club more accessible for disabled people.It's after she struggled to find toilet facilities for her son, who's in a wheelchair.A B&B in Harrietsham that appeared on TVs Four in a Bed has revealed plans for expansion.Stable Oak Cottages has applied to convert a redundant barn into a tearoom and café for its guests.  And in sport, Ashford United manager Danny Kedwell has left the club after eight months in charge.The former Gillingham player goes after a run of three defeats and the side 10th in the Isthmian South East league.

A charity is warning people to be wary of fraudsters collecting money in its name after a woman in Tonbridge became the latest to be scammed.The cafe customer thought she was donating to Disability Rights UK when she was approached by a young girl presenting as deaf. Also in today's podcast, a thug who left the mother of his child “unrecognisable” after a ferocious beating told police he had "destroyed her face".He made a harrowing 999 call after he had viciously assaulted his ex-partner with such force that he broke her jaw in three places.Council bosses in Ashford have apologised after a workman buried his cat in a tenant's garden.The woman said she was left stunned when the subcontractor turned up with a shovel and made the bizarre request during the refurbishment of her bathroom.A Tunbridge Wells mum says she and her children were left upset and disappointed after taking them to see Santa at a tourist attraction only to find it had shut without notice.She says she received a confirmation email that morning - but when they got there it was locked up with no-one in sight. And in football you can hear from Gillingham striker Elliott Nevitt and from boss Mark Bonner ahead of what's shaping up to be a busy festive period. It all kicks off on Boxing Day when the Gills travel to take on Colchester United. 

Ned and Laura join a bike bus! This celebratory, festive episode of Streets Ahead includes an East End bike ride with tinsel, some Christmas tunes, and a joyful pedal through the streets of West Ham with adults and kids, to Park Primary School.A bike bus is simply a group ride to school, with both adults and kids joining at different points on set days, similar to a school bus. Except everyone pedals, or wheels their way together. Some bike buses are weekly, some fortnightly, some monthly. The idea is to make the cycle, wheel or scoot to school safe and fun - and to spread the word that cycling to school is possible.Bike buses began in earnest in 2019, with a handful of pioneers riding to school in groups. Our own Adam Tranter ran a bike bus with his wife and kids after fellow parents expressed an interest in their cargo bike commute: https://www.forbes.com/sites/carltonreid/2019/10/11/pr-company-bosses-lead-20-child-pedal-posse-to-show-council-that-cycling-to-school-is-unsafe/As pandemic-era school streets were introduced by more and more councils in the UK, restricting motor traffic at the school gates for the start and end of the academic day, more streets felt safe for cycling, and more families formed their own bike buses. There are now an estimated 70 of them - at least those that are publicly advertised.Because a bike bus is simply people riding to school together, not all of them publicise their activities. They can be as informal as a few parents or carers and their kids getting together.Some bike buses are registered on www.bikebus.org - there are an estimated 50 of these, for inspiration.Thank you to Hamish Belding, for his advice for this episode. You can follow Hamish's adventures here: https://bsky.app/profile/bikewalkscoot.bsky.socialFRideDays Bike Bus is hosted by active travel charity Sustrans, and offers support for organisers, with materials like marshal tabards and a free guide. Find out more here: https://www.sustrans.org.uk/campaigns/fridedays-bike-bus/. There are around 20 of these bike buses. Hamish says Cardiff x 8, Swansea, Caerphilly, Pembroke, Plymouth, Cheshire, Lancashire, Yorkshire, Dorset, Reading, London and Edinburgh. There are more Bike Buses in pipeline to be launched during Spring/Summer term – potentially in London, Wolverhampton, Tonbridge and Cardiff.Thank you to Better Streets for Newham for the photo of Ned in action: https://bsky.app/profile/betterstsnewham.bsky.socialThank you for tuning in for 2024! We appreciate all of our listeners and supporters and look forward to more adventures in 2025.If you want ad-free listening, behind-the-scenes and bonus content and to help support the podcast - head to (https://www.patreon.com/StreetsAheadPodcast). We'll even send you some stickers! We're also on Twitter and welcome your feedback on our episode: https://twitter.com/podstreetsaheadIf you're reading this, please can you take 1 minute to give us a rating and write a review? It helps us more than you probably think! Support Streets Ahead on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A drug dealer who made tens of thousands of pounds selling narcotics online from a bedroom at his dad's home in Whitstable has been jailed.A court heard Felix Boo , 24, from Clifton Road bought expensive watches and invested in cryptocurrency after making tens of thousands of pounds.Also in today's podcast, a Maidstone man says he's having to go to A&E several times a week after falling onto a rusty piece of metal in his garden.Matthew Childs has tried to get the dressing re-done at his GP surgery but has been told they can't see him.Head to KentOnline or follow us on socials to see pictures of an ominous message that's been left on a smashed up pedestrian crossing in Tonbridge.Vandals destroyed the equipment in Cage Green, and wrote "you know what you did in 2012" on what was left behind. A local councillor's given their reaction.An event is being held in Kent this weekend to highlight the impact of smartphones on children.Whitstable Unplugged will include talks from experts and from a young person who will share how the technology has shaped their lives. Hear from one of the organisers and a playwright who has written a piece called Generation FOMO after speaking to young people.Major plans have been announced to restore 80 hectares of chalk grassland near Dover Castle.English Heritage have teamed up with three local groups to support the scheme which aims to create habitats for rare plants, birds and insects.And, Chris Packham's been telling KentOnline about visiting Antarctica to photograph penguins - describing it as 'utterly overwhelming'.The TV wildlife expert was there to raise awareness of the threats they face - including over-fishing and climate change. His pictures are now going on display at Taylor-Jones & Son gallery in Deal.Sam Lawrie's got a round up of everything else going on in Kent this weekend.And in sport, Gillingham are back in league two action this weekend after a 10-day break.They're welcoming Harrogate Town to Priestfield.

Join Stephen, Simon and Matt discussing the Tonbridge and Maidstone games

Kirsty and Tom chew the fat and eat the gristle of a draw with Chelmsford and a win over Salisbury. Then they consume the potato (?) of looking ahead to games against Tonbridge and Maidstone. Does anyone read this bit?

Lee, Andy, Max and the Driven Not Hidden Collective descend on Paragon Porsche for the second annual cars & curry night at the company's Tonbridge showroom.As part of the evening, 9WERKS Radio and the Paragon team discuss their top five air-cooled Porsche 911s of all time… will there be a clear winner?Check out an array of air- and water-cool Porsche for sale, backed by comprehensive warranties, on the 9WERKS Marketplace ‘9WERKS Radio' @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world's finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy and obsessive Porsche enthusiast & magazine junkie Max Newman @maxripcor, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support us by joining the 9WERKS Driven Not Hidden Collective you can do so by hitting the link below, your support would be greatly appreciated.Support the show

Stevie Rice, the CEO of West Kent Mind, tells us about the great work they do,  making sure anyone with a mental health problem in the Sevenoaks, Tonbridge & Malling and Tunbridge Wells districts in West Kent has somewhere to turn for advice and support. https://westkentmind.org.uk/Support the show

Angry parents living close by to a new school in Ebbsfleet have slammed the admissions policy – and say they were sold a dream they just haven't got. They launched a petition which forced the school to change its criteria and increase its intake after it was revealed that if it was oversubscribed, other pupils would get priority over those who live nearby.Also in today's podcast, a Herne Bay mum says she's horrified after a child found a small blade in chips bought on a Kent pier. He'd bought the portion to share with his friends and was lucky it was spotted before someone bit into it. There are calls for bosses in Tonbridge and Malling to put an end to parking restrictions which are threatening the survival of a popular farmers' market. Critics say the four hour limit is putting unwelcome pressure on traders and at this rate they'll have no market left. You can also find out which KFC outlet in Kent has been ranked as one of the country's worst when it comes to hygiene. The Colonel has responded to the claims – saying they have high standards and since the result have been working hard to get things back up to scratch. And the KentOnline Podcast has been speaking to the owners of a new family entertainment centre that's opened in Sittingbourne. The £20,000 refurb to the old Snooker and Sports bar now includes an 18-hole neon crazy golf course, pool room and darts facilities. 

It's been revealed a driver who'd taken cocaine hours before getting behind the wheel lost control of his vehicle before a fatal crash. Tommy Dunn also wasn't wearing his seatbelt and was using his phone moments before swerving into oncoming traffic.Also in today's podcast, a Kent MP is calling on the Mayor of London to extend his plans to offer concessions for the Silvertown Tunnel to include people living in Kent There are a proposal to offer a discount for people in the London boroughs near the tunnel while ignoring those who live south of the River Thames. Work has started on the infilling of part of a docklands area to prepare for new EU border rules.The Port of Dover is aiming to create more space for checks when new Entry/Exit System starts in November 10 amid fears of traffic chaos. It's 12 months since retail giant Wilko started closing its stores - just a month after declaring bankruptcy. 12,500 people lost their jobs nationwide including those who worked in Kent's 15 branches. And a community group aiming to purchase and save a 500-year-old pub made famous on TV has won the backing of Piers Morgan. The TV personality paid a visit to the Swan on the Green  near Tonbridge last week while out dining with friends.

A woman's revealed she felt 'physically sick' after being told her abusive ex-boyfriend from Tonbridge is being released early from prison.32-year-old warehouse worker Jack Poore from Hadlow was jailed for 35 months last year - but is due out as part of government plans to free-up space in jails.Natasha Brine has moved away from the county, but has been telling reporter Liane Castle how victim's aren't being considered.Also in today's podcast, a Kent MP says she feels ashamed of her party after plans to cut winter fuel payments passed through Parliament.Only the poorest pensioners will now get the support.A man who grows produce for a foodbank in Dover has told the podcast how half of it has failed - because of a problem with the water supply at his allotment.A solar-powered well was installed at the site on Folkestone Road - but plot owners say they're not getting enough supplies when it's cloudy.The people in charge of fundraising for the air ambulance covering Kent have told us there's still a misconception that it's paid for by the NHS.This week is all about raising awareness of what they do.There are calls for a creek near Sittingbourne to be cleaned up in a bid to stop a smell wafting into the town centre...It's claimed pollution is getting into Milton Creek where there are plans for redevelopment.A retired teacher who's suffered three separate brain injuries says it's inspired him to try and help others.Phillip Lisgarten has done various fundraising activities - including a Lands End to John O' Groats bike ride and a running marathon.Our reporter Alex Langridge has been chatting to the 70-year-old , his wife Judith and daughter Rebekah.

Send us a textWe kick off season 10 of the Veterans In Politics Podcast with Conservative Leadership hopeful, Tom Tugendhat!  This is a fantastic start to the season, and you wont be surprised to learn that our host Jonny and Tom (whom share the same cap badge from their time in the army) talk about leadership... a lot!Tom was Minister of State (Minister for Security) between 6 September 2022 and 5 July 2024 and attended cabinet. He previously served as the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee from 2017 to 2022 and was first elected the MP for Tonbridge and Malling in 2015.Before being elected as an MP, Tom served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also worked for the Foreign Office, helping to set up the National Security Council of Afghanistan and the government in Helmand Province. On returning to the UK, Tom served as the military assistant and principal adviser to the Chief of the Defence Staff to the British Army, Lord Richards, and we talk about how he has inspired his leadership style in politics.Tom studied Theology at the University of Bristol, followed by a Master's degree in Islamic studies at Cambridge University, which included learning Arabic in Yemen.After graduating, Tom worked in Beirut as a journalist, and soon after established one of Lebanon's first public relations companies. On his return to the UK, Tom joined the Territorial Army. When the Iraq War broke out in 2003, he was mobilised as an Arabic-speaking intelligence officer to serve with the Royal Marines.In 2005, Tom was asked by the Foreign Office to travel to Afghanistan to establish the National Security Council. After two years in Afghanistan and a brief return to the UK, Tom was mobilised and served operationally for a further two years with the Royal Marines, for which he received an MBE, coming off his last patrol in July 2009.Tom went on to work on the Army Strategy Team helping to prepare for the Strategic Defence and Security Review. He later served as the Chief of the Defence Staff's military assistant and principal adviser. He remains an Army Reserve officer.For more on Tom, see here: https://www.tomtugendhat.org/aboutomSupport the show✅Support The Show Help Us Grow! Help us reach more veterans by donating the cost of a cup of coffee today...

A mystery buyer has snapped up plots of land in Medway, leading to fears it'll affect resident's privacy and the value of their homes.The plots of land vary in size from less the an acre to more than seven acres, and some are within feet of people's properties.Also in today's podcast, a man's been arrested on suspicion of murder after a woman in her 80s was stabbed to death near Tunbridge Wells.Police were called to a disturbance in Bright Ridge in Southborough on Saturday night.The prisons watchdog says HMP Rochester needs urgent improvement after a decade of decline resulting in a "shocking level of neglect".  Inspectors visited last month and found squalid conditions, rising violence and widespread drug use.  Hear from Charlie Taylor who is HM Chief Inspector of Prisons.The Kent MP hoping to be the next Tory leader has revealed he'd bring back something similar to the Rwanda scheme if he ever becomes Prime Minister.Labour promised to scrap the policy and have set up a Border Security Command to try and stop asylum seekers crossing the Channel. Tonbridge rep Tom Tugendhat has been speaking on the latest episode of the Kent Politics Podcast.As new research suggests more than a fifth of customers are asking for the service charge to be removed from restaurant bills, we've been finding out what you think.Rather than leave a tip on the table, it's becoming more and more common for eateries to add a bit extra onto the bill instead. Reporter Millie Bowles has been chatting to diners in Canterbury.It's claimed donations have been left to rot inside a charity shop in Maidstone, after it closed during the pandemic but never reopened.Save the Children in Union Street still has a full window display at the front and is overgrown with brambles at the back.And in sport, Gillingham remain unbeaten in league two this season after a 1-0 win over Chesterfield.Robbie McKenzie scored the only goal of the game at Priestfield on Saturday and we've been getting the thoughts of manager Mark Bonner.

A teacher who paid £2.50 to park at a country park is being threatened with court action from debt collectors.The operators of the car park at Lullingstone Country Park say he didn't have a valid ticket and are chasing him for payment of a £140 fine. Also in today's podcast, a cannabis smoker spotted driving slowly along a village road claimed she was trying to avoid a large bird after being pulled over by police. The 40-year-old also admitted to officers she had cannabis in the car. Administrators of a former leisure centre say building homes on the site cannot be ruled out - as the community fights to get the facility reopened.Folkestone Sports Centre shut suddenly last month after the charity which ran it said it could no longer afford to remain operational.A derelict seaside shelter that has become a magnet for anti-social behaviour could be given a new lease of life as an outdoor dining space with live music.The restaurant tycoon behind the refurb of Marina's Cafe in Margate is hoping to take on the site. And as the Paralympics get underway in Paris tonight you can hear from a Kent athlete who's hoping to make it on the podium this time around. Long Jump competitor and 100m sprinter finished Zak Skinner finished 4th at the Tokyo Olympics in the long jump, missing out on a medal by just 3 centimetres.

A videographer has hit back after complaints from several couples who were let down on their wedding day.KentOnline has spoken to dozens of brides who've had issues with services provided by Wallflower Weddings, based in Tonbridge. We've also got their response.Also in today's podcast, staff at a family hub in Margate say plans to cut more than half of their funding will be a huge blow for the community.The Milmead site employs 27 paid workers as well as seven volunteers, providing support for parents, people with mental health issues and domestic abuse victims.A motorcyclist who died in a crash near Canterbury has been described as a 'true gentleman'.Russell Brown passed away in hospital seven days after being involved in a collision with a Range Rover on the A257.A developer's been criticised by parents as a children's play area in Dartford remains fenced off for the second consecutive summer.People living in Baker Crescent are now calling on the local council to take action.A Rainham mum's urging us all to be safe in the sun after being diagnosed with skin cancer.Natasha Eaton noticed a new mole on her tummy that started to get bigger. We've also been speaking to Cancer Research UK on the symptoms to look out for.A food van run by volunteers at a youth football club in Medway has been broken into and vandalised.Ketchup and mayo was smeared up the walls of Peckish at Woodpecker FC in Strood.At the Olympics - Kent's Dina Asher-Smith goes in the semi-finals of the women's 200 metres later.She made it through comfortably after finishing second in her heat.And in football, Gillingham's pre-season friendlies finished with a 1-all draw at Woking over the weekend.New loan signing Jacob Wakeling scored his first goal for the club.

The family of a woman who died after spending months on an NHS waiting list say she was 'let down'.43-year-old Jo Sharpe from Ashford had been referred to a specialist after suffering a seizure in January - but passed away earlier this month.Also on today's podcast, there's a warning temperatures could top 30 degrees in Kent today.A heat health alert is in force across the county and won't end until Friday morning. We've been chatting to Kent's deputy director of public health.If you live in Folkestone, you're being asked what you think should happen to the town's library.The building on Grace Hill has been closed since December 2022 because it became unsafe for customers and staff. We've been speaking to a campaigner who's keen for the facility to re-open.There are fears introducing parking charges in part of Kent will kill the town centre.Until now, shoppers heading into Tonbridge on a Sunday didn't have to pay.But, plans have been approved to extend week-day charges to 8pm, and at weekends, Sunday charging will be introduced. The Local Democracy Reporting Service has been getting reaction.And in sport, Kent's Emma Raducanu has got off to a winning start in the Washington Open.She beat Belgium's Elise Mertens in three sets.

There are calls for a review of Dreamland's licence as it's emerged more than 20 teenagers ended up in hospital after a gig at the venue in Margate.A 17 year-old girl had died after attending a drum and bass event at Dreamland.Emily Stoke suffered from a suspected MDMA overdose - and it's now emerged 21 other teenagers also ended up in hospital.Also in today's podcast, Figures seen by KentOnline show a 70% rise in fines issued to parents in Kent for taking their children out of school.More than 13,000 penalty notices were handed out for unauthorised absences last year - up from around 7,700 the previous year.The founder of an organisation set up to help people with neurodiversity in east Kent says their services are at risk due to funding issues.Lucie Chiocchetti set up Neurodivergent Friends Thanet after being diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult.Dozens of people in Larkfield have objected to plans to knock down an old workshop and replace it with a new building and offices.Neuxpark Limited have submitted an application to Tonbridge and Malling council for The Shed off Lunsford Lane.Students at a martial arts school in Gravesend have been selected to join Team GB in the world championships of stick fighting.The sport sees participants in protective gear using using slender, wooden batons for one-to-one combat.

This season on my podcast, Baring It All with Call Me Adam, I am highlighting My Entertainment Idols.Today, I am going back in time and Behind-The-Curtain to bring you this blast from the past, my 2013 interview with Nicki French, award-winning international recording artist, known for her smash hit dance version of Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse of the Heart."In this interview, Nicki is Baring It All with Call Me Adam about:How she handles her success What she loves about musical theatreHow she decides what songs to recordWhat she loves about the creative process in putting an album togetherSo much moreSpecial Thanks:Theme Song by Bobby CroninPodcast Logo by Liam O'DonnellEdited by Adam RothenbergUnderscore Music by CutiqueConnect with Me:Website: www.callmeadam.comFacebook: @CallMeAdamNYCInstagram: @CallMeAdamNYCMore on Nicki French:Nicki was born in Carlisle, Cumbria to Mum Eileen and Dad Joe. Music was destined to be in the family – dad played the drums when he was younger, and mum the violin. Nicki's brother, Tim, is very musical too – a guitarist and singer who is a fabulous song-writer. However, her two sisters, Allison and Carolyn, stayed away from music – probably plenty to listen to already in the household!The family moved down to Tenterden in Kent when Nicki was four years old. Always a keen singer, one of her early memories was sitting next to the radio, listening to the new chart rundown and singing along to all the songs, when Auntie Sally, her Godmother, came in and said to mum and dad, "She'll be a singer when she grows up!"The first ‘gig' came at the age of seven, when Nicki was chosen to sing a solo - the first verse of "O Little Town of Bethlehem" at the Infants' School Christmas Concert! From then on there was no turning back! A few years later she won the local talent contest, and within the year had joined her first band, Krisp, run by Tim and his friend Kelvin. They worked the most salubrious places – working mens' clubs and holiday camps – wooh!From the age of 16, Nicki studied Music and Drama at West Kent College in Tonbridge, Kent, passing her ‘A' Levels two years later. At the annual college musical, she played the lead role of Laurey in Oklahoma!, earning rave reviews for her performance. She then moved up to London and started auditioning for bands and theatre shows. Not many know that Nicki actually was part of a duo in the early 1980s – name of Whisky and Sofa! They released a song called "Dirty Den," about the Eastenders character! It was played on the Radio One Breakfast Show and that was about it! Amazing though, it was written by an extremely well-known writer, Barry Mason. He wrote "The Last Waltz" for Engelbert Humperdinck and "Delilah" for Tom Jones. Credibility sadly was NOT in existence on "Dirty Den."Nicki started working the pubs and clubs, moving onto gay pubs and clubs a short while later – The Spread Eagle in Shoreditch was her first! However the most exciting show for Nicki was at the Player of the Season annual dinner/dance at Tottenham Hotspur FC – her team! They had just signed a new player and were introducing him to the fans – a player by the name of Paul Gascoigne, and Gazza and all the other players got up on stage with her to perform a couple of songs – a special moment. Nicki had been working on the gay scene for some time, when she made one of her regular visits to perform in a club in...

Frustrated neighbours say “rude and lazy” school-run parents are making their lives hell by parking and driving recklessly.Residents in Ashford say vehicles are regularly left on double-yellow lines, across dropped kerbs and even on driveways by people dropping children at the nearby schools. Also on today's podcast, a cleaner at a school in Sandwich who was signed off work has told of her shock at being sacked by text message.She'd been on sick leave with anxiety and Tourette's syndrome - but was told via WhatsApp that her P45 was in the post. The long wait to use a £92 million flyover for the first time after years of work is almost over.A single lane of the new overpass on the A249 at Stockbury will open this week.We'll hear from Kent bosses as Operation Brock is set to be deployed this week ahead of what's expected to be a busy summer period. It's tipped to be the busiest holiday period for the Port of Dover since the pandemic. And a three-storey shop dedicated to our four-legged friends has launched in a Kent town centre.The PupCup has a dog friendly cafe and a boutique – there are even plans for event space for yoga sessions and movie night. 

People living in a village between Folkestone and Dover say plans to build 90 more homes is "concreting over countryside and will spoil views".Developers have lodged plans to transform farmland in Capel-le-Ferne - and it's already raised more than 100 letters of objection.Also in today's podcast, a woman's described the moment a car crashed into her house in a village near Ashford.Jenny Garrad was upstairs in the property when it happened on Chequer Tree Farm Road in Mersham - she's now calling for improvements to the junction with Colliers Hill.With just three days until the general election, a first time voter in Kent admits he still hasn't decided where to put his cross.At the start of the campaigning, Luca Fasulo had a clear idea who he was going to vote for - but that changed after watching a hustings.A disabled woman from Sevenoaks has accused a company of discrimination after she apparently wasn't allowed on a bus because of her mobility scooter.Amanda King says the driver of the Number 8 Go Coach from the town centre was shaking his head as she used the ramp, despite the disabled bay being free - he reportedly then closed the door on her. Three school boys from Tonbridge have helped set a new tug of war world record...Owen, Freddie and Otis used a 540 meter long rope at the town's race course - with 500 other children taking part.And in sport, Gillingham are back in training for the new season today.They've had nine weeks off since finishing outside the play-off places in league 2.

A Yalding woman who stole more than £8,000 from a pensioner in her care has avoided being sent to prison.A court heard the victim had been left disabled after suffering a suspected mini-stroke and the 43 year-old who was meant to be looking after him, used his debit card to pay for clothes, food and music.Also in today's podcast, people in Ashford say their road has turned into a slum as rubbish piles up.Disruption to bin collections is continuing in several parts of the county after a new contractor took over.A small business owner from Tunbridge Wells is urging whoever wins the election to provide more support for working mums.Amber Taylor set up baby tableware company Chomp in 2023 - after nearly 20 years in corporate marketing.There are calls for more to be done to protect the safety of cyclists, with some groups saying Kent roads are an increasingly dangerous place to be.  Members of the West Kent Road Club say they've been dragged under trailers, verbally abused and suffered serious injuries.Students from a Kent school are preparing to showcase their science projects in the finals of this year's Big Bang Science and Engineering competition. The finalists, from Invicta Grammar School in Maidstone, include designs for a robot to help tackle beach plastic and an app supporting people with autism. And, a Tonbridge woman has finally achieved her dream of jumping out of a plane - after a 30 year wait.Shirley Ellis had initially hoped to do a solo jump - but carried out the tandem dive at Headcorn Aerodrome.

Anna berättar om kuppen mot värdedepån i Tonbridge, England 2006 där rånarna fick med sig rekordbeloppet 54 miljoner pund, ett fall som började med "poliser", en kidnappad familj och ansiktsproteser. Karin berättar om David Morley som överlevde en terrorattack, men tyvärr inte hade samma tur när han fem år senare attackerades av ett gäng som tillbringade natten med att leta offer på måfå.

What is the difference between being a sole trader and a limited company?How should you structure your business?These are big questions you have to grapple with when setting up your own business, so I asked the perfect guests on the podcast to give us some advice. Wendy Ross is the founder of Tonbridge Accountants, and is joined by her business partner and husband Laughton. Together they explain the difference between being a sole trader and a limited company - in easy to understand language! We talk about the advantages and disadvantages of each set up, and the sort of work involved and things you will need to consider.We also discuss what you need to be keeping a record of in your accounts in order to make sure you are being compliant.It's a brilliant episode that makes a complex topic much easier to understand.Tonbridge Accountants offer a free 15 minute phone consultation, which you can book here.The Bring Your Product Idea to Life Podcast - Best Business Podcast Award, Independent Podcast Awards 2023USEFUL RESOURCES:Tonbridge Accountants WebsiteTonbridge Accountants FacebookTonbridge Accountants InstagramWendy Ross Linked InThis episode is sponsored by Aubergine LegalDo you sometimes worry that your business isn't meeting all its legal compliance requirements and wonder if you are ticking all the legal boxes? Are you losing sleep worrying about a piece of legislation that you might not be complying with? Perhaps you need some help with your client contracts or your data protection compliance? Or maybe you worry that your website doesn't have the right documents or legal notices in the right place? Perhaps you have a brand that you want to protect with a trademark? Do you want to outsource it all and eliminate your worries? Then get in touch with Aubergine Legal, a friendly commercial legal consultancy. Offering practical and clear commercial legal advice without the overwhelming legal jargon. Taking the worry away and helping you to protect your business and minimise your risks. Aubergine offers a free initial 30 minute consultation if you have any questions or want to find out how they can help.Aubergine Legal WebsiteGet In Touch with Aubergine LegalAubergine Legal BlogAubergine Legal Shop which includes FREE Cookie Guide, FREE Business Start Up Legal Checklist, and paid for resources including a Guide on Selling to the USALET'S CONNECTJoin my free Facebook group for product makers and creatorsFind me on Instagram

We're starting today's episode with reaction to the shock political news that Natalie Elphicke has defected to Labour.The Dover MP released a statement criticising the Prime Minister's record on tackling small boat crossings - saying he's 'failing to keep our borders safe and secure'.Hear from a leading charity in Dover that works with asylum seekers, we have also spoken to the leader of Dover District Council and Rochester and Strood rep Kelly Tolhurst.Also in today's podcast, drivers have reported having to queue for an hour to pay to get out of a car park in Folkestone after new charges were introduced.Cameras have also been installed at the site on Sandgate Road. Kate joins us with the details.Volunteers at a youth club in north Kent have started a petition after it was forced to close.The facility on Hall Road in Northfleet is one of a number across the county that have shut - as the county council creates 'family hubs' instead. Hear from a teenager who worked there, and a mum whose son used to go along.A Kent school's been given funding to take children to visit an art gallery, as figures show more than a quarter of pupils across the country haven't been on a school trip.Long Mead Community Primary in Tonbridge took the Year 4 and 5 classes to the Turner Contemporary in Margate.And in football, there'll be an open-top bus parade this weekend to celebrate Bromley's pomotion into league two...They beat Solihull Moors on penalties in their final at Wembley.

Parents in part of Kent are demanding a new non-selective secondary school to save their children a 10-mile commute.Currently there isn't a non-grammar in Cranbrook, so pupils are faced with long journeys every day. That's led to mums and dads setting up a campaign group.Also in today's podcast, there's major disruption to rail services in Kent today as train drivers are out on strike.Members of the ASLEF union have been in a dispute with employers over pay since July 2022. We've been getting reaction from Southeastern.The man who wants to be the next Labour MP in Dover says the government has left it too late to avoid chaos at the town's Port when new biometric checks come in.The EU digital border controls are due to be introduced this Autumn and would see manual passport stamps replaced with facial imaging and fingerprinting.Today marks four weeks since the start of controversial road works in Medway - and local bosses have told the podcast they're pleased with how traffic's coping.The A228 in the Strood-bound direction from the Sans Pareil roundabout has been closed since March 11 and won't reopen until June so the entrance to a new school can be built.Parking charges are going up in another part of Kent as bosses look to create more revenue to avoid cutting services elsewhere.Tonbridge and Malling councillors have voted in favour of introducing a fee at sites in Aylesford and Larkfield to bring them in line with the rest of the borough.Residents in Stodmarsh say a stretch of road leading into their village could be one of the worst in Kent.Drivers say years of neglect have left Stodmarsh Road full of potholes, with uneven surfaces and water retention. In sport, Gillingham's hopes of reaching the league two play-offs are all but over after they suffered another defeat at the weekend.They were beaten 1-0 at Bradford City to drop to 11th in the table. We've been getting reaction from head coach Stephen Clemence and player Connor Mahoney.

An inquest has been held into the deaths of two young men following a crash on the A20 near Farningham.Jake Green and Alfie Green were friends who worked together.Police have charged a 12-year-old boy with attempted murder following a stabbing in Sittingbourne.A 15 year-old girl was taken to a London hospital after she was injured on Adelaide Drive on Friday. Reporter Joe Crossley has been to the scene.A coroner's found the death of a Sittingbourne mum could have been prevented if her cancer diagnosis hadn't been delayed .44-year-old Kerri Mothersole died in 2022  and an investigation found reports from a Kent ultrasound clinic weren't passed on to doctors. Her son Jordan has spoken out.The boss of a cancer charity in Herne Bay says he's having to close his shop because of shoplifting and a drop in donations.Graeme Sergeant runs the Chemotherapy Cancer Project which supports patients going through treatment.The Dartford council leader is calling on transport bosses to 'get on' with building the new Lower Thames Crossing.The tunnel would link Gravesham and Essex, reducing congestion elsewhere, but estimates say it won't open until 2030.More than 30 shopping trolleys have been pulled from the river Medway during a clean-up operation.Water levels in Tonbridge have been lowered for five weeks as part of yearly repairs and maintenance.A 12-year-oldboy from Ashford is preparing for the trip of a lifetime - all thanks to his passion for Pokémon.Harrison Holden-Smith is so good at the card game he's currently ranked 12th in the UK - and 37th in Europe. Later this year, he'll be travelling to Hawaii for the World Championships.And in sport, and it was a fantastic three points on the road for Gillingham at the weekend.They came from behind twice to beat Morecambe 3-2 on Saturday.

There's been severe travel disruption in Kent after heavy rain caused landslips.No trains were able to run from Maidstone East towards Ashford - services were also affected between Tunbridge Wells and Hastings. Hear from one of the bosses at Southeastern.Meantime, after all the wind and rain, we're now set for some cold weather across Kent.Forecasters say temperatures will remain in single figures over the next few days - and drop below freezing at night. We've been speaking to the deputy director of public health in the county.Residents in part of Ashford say they're still fighting for repairs to be carried out after their new build homes were plagued with mould.They bought the properties in Repton Avenue in 2018 and immediately noticed a problem with damp. A mum has described what it's been like for her family - we've also got a statement from the developer.There are concerns about rubbish being left on the streets of Medway after major disruption to bin collections.Some people will have to wait an extra week for their waste to be collected. A councillor has apologised for the disruption.There are just a few days left to have a say on plans to try and improve safety for women and girls in west Kent.Bosses in Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells have joined forces and want to know about parts of the towns where you might feel particularly vulnerable.And in sport, Gillingham and Maidstone United are in action in the third round of the FA Cup this weekend.We've been catching up with Gills head coach Stephen Clemence and defender Max Ehmer as they welcome premier league opposition to a sold-out Priestfield.

A leisure complex in Tonbridge could be knocked down after it was deemed 'not fit for purpose'.Council bosses are looking at replacing the Angel Centre with a completely new building. Hear from leader Matt Boughton.Also in today's podcast, the Prime Minister has survived a vote on his Rwanda asylum policy.The bill's passed to the next stage with a majority of 43, but still has a number of hurdles to overcome. Hear what Dover's Natalie Elphicke had to say during a debate, and we've got reaction from Ashford's Damian Green.Medway is getting a share of £5 million of funding to bring historic buildings back to life.  The money will help the council take over dilapidated old sites between Rochester and Chatham and create valuable spaces for the community.Business owners in Whitstable have told the podcast they won't survive if plans to hike parking fees go ahead.The proposals by Canterbury City Council would see the hourly rate at the town's two main sites rise to £3.70.A petition against plans for a new bus route through Dover has been handed in to Parliament.700 people have signed it - urging the council to re-think the Fastrack proposals which pass an historic church.And, if the weather's ok you might see a meteor shower in Kent tonight.It's called Geminid and is one of the most active of the year with up to 100 meteors an hour.

The dad of a young man who died after taking a 'cocktail of drugs' during birthday celebrations has paid a heartbreaking tribute.Chase Oldale-Worth was found unresponsive at his home in July after turning 23. Hear from reporter Alex Jee who has been speaking to the family.Also in today's podcast, foodbanks across Kent are braced for their worst winter yet with demand for their services at an all time high.The Trussell Trust runs seven sites in the county and expects to hand out more than one million emergency food parcels in the next three months. We've been speaking to their project manager in Swale.A Kent MP has promised everything will be done to keep communities safe in the UK as fighting in the Middle East continues.Israel launched strikes on Gaza after militant group Hamas carried out a surprise attack on the country just over a week ago. Hear from Tonbridge and Malling rep Tom Tugendhat.Thousands of children across Kent are finding out if they can apply to go to a grammar school next September.Results of the Kent Test are out and we've got analysis from education expert Graham Jones from Whitehead Monckton solicitors in Maidstone.An incredibly popular arts and crafts shop in Chatham is closing down after 40 years.Just Fabrics started off as a stall in the town's market before moving to the Pentagon shopping centre - but has to leave their current base. Hear from the owner.As Black History Month continues, final preparations are being made for an event to celebrate all cultures across Kent.The Empower Gala will award people who go above and beyond within their community.And in sport, Sheppey United have qualified for the opening round of the FA Cup for the first time ever.They beat Billericay Town on penalties in their replay match last night and will take on league 2 side Walsall next.

More than 80 families from London are set to be moved into an 11-storey former office block in Chatham.A private housing association has confirmed tenants could arrive at Anchorage House on the High Street at the start of next week. We've got reaction from Neil Charlick who founded Gillingham Street Angels and works with people facing poverty in Medway.Also in today's podcast, we've got an update now on a story we brought you earlier in the week about the Orchard theatre in Dartford.It's going to have to close for about a year so £7 million of repairs can be carried out after potentially dangerous concrete was found in the roof. However, it's now been revealed the Christmas pantomime will go ahead. We also hear today from the dad of a little girl from Tonbridge who was born with a rare genetic condition - and even doctors don't know how she'll develop as she grows up.April Ells was diagnosed with a chromosomal disorder when she was just a few days old. Her dad Chris tells us more.Cheryl Baker has revealed how an experience when she gave birth inspired her to support a Medway baby loss Charity.The singer was contacted by David and Jo Ward after they set up Abigail's Footsteps in memory of their daughter who was stillborn in 2009. She's been speaking in the final episode of a podcast launched to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week.And in sport, hear from striker Tom Nichols and caretaker manager Keith Millen ahead of Gillingham's game this weekend.The side are travelling to take on Walsall in League Two.

Bus passengers have been left angry and frustrated after an operator cancelled 4,000 journeys in a month.Stagecoach say a shortage of drivers is to blame and they have promised improvements will be made. Hear from reporter and regular bus user Rhys Griffiths and we have a full statement from the company.Also in the podcast, it is being reported convicted criminals could avoid jail from next week because prisons are full.Crown Court judges have apparently been told to delay sentencing hearings to try to manage numbers. Hear from Tonbridge and Malling MP Tom Tugendhat.It's been revealed a Kent theatre may have to stay closed for a year, after potentially dangerous concrete was found in the roof.The cost of repairing the Orchard in Dartford could run to £7 million - we've got reaction from the landlord of a nearby pub.A group of dads who have experienced baby loss have called for more support and understanding of their feelings.They've spoken in a hard hitting podcast released to mark baby loss awareness week and produced with Medway charity Abigail's Footsteps.Six primary schools in Kent have been given free waterproofs and wellies so children can spend more time outdoors.Pupils in Chatham, Sittingbourne, Tunbridge Wells, Whitstable and Birchington are the latest to benefit from the scheme by The Outdoor Guide Foundation. We've caught up with TV's Gemma Hunt who supports the organisation.And in sport, and the Gillingham chairman says he's vetting candidates from around the world as they look to appoint a new manager.Neil Harris was sacked last week following a run of three games without a win.

A mum has removed her son from a school in Tonbridge after finding a blade in his bag.The eight year-old claims it was put there by another pupil. Hear what the school have said to other parents in an email.Also in today's podcast, a man has been taken to hospital after being stabbed in Canterbury.It happened on Station Road East in the early hours of this morning.Firefighters have spent the night at the scene of a large fire at a farm near Ashford.Several buildings and tonnes of hay caught alight at the site in Sellindge on Wednesday night.Green campaigners in Kent are welcoming a ban on single use plastics that comes into force this weekend.From October 1st, restaurants, takeaways and sandwich shops won't be able to use things like plastic plates, bowls and cutlery. We've been speaking to Liz O'Hanlon who founded the Rainham Eco Hub.Tom Parker's widow has spoken out as part of a campaign to get more of us talking about loss. The singer from The Wanted died last year after being diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Kelsey Parker, who lives in Kent, is sharing her story as she hopes to inspire others to start discussions with grieving friends and family members. Features writer Sam Lawrie has a roundup of everything going on in Kent this weekend.And in sport, reporter Luke Cawdell has been chatting to the Gillingham manager ahead of their clash with Mansfield Town at Priestfield.The Gills are currently second in the table with tomorrow's opposition just one place below them.

This year the warm and still weather has led to a surge in flea beetles, which can destroy oil seed rape, while it's still in the early stages of growth in the fields. Farmers used to rely on neonicotinoid chemicals to protect the plants and kill flea beetle larvae, but they have been banned. We speak to a farmer who's been spraying his crop at night to try and tackle the pest, but now he's having to re-sow much of his crop, some of it by drone. This year's sugar beet harvest, known as a 'campaign', has just started. The harvest last year was poor and the cost of processing sugar-beet rose dramatically. Farmers and businesses which want to use British sugar in their products are hoping for a better season this year. Picking apples has always been labour-intensive, but things are changing with the development of new machinery to aid - or even replace - pickers. One such machine is called the REVO and it's being used this year by a major grower in Kent. Adrian Scripps has 250 hectares and produces up to 200 million apples a year from its orchards near Tonbridge, it's invested in a fleet of harvesting platforms. Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

A stranger has come to the aid of a thirsty teenager who was denied a glass of tap water a Folkestone Burger King. The boy asked for a free drink during one of the hottest days of the year so far, another customer stepped in to pay when staff refused. Also in today's podcast, South East Water have announced a hosepipe ban will come into force for most of Kent later this month. The restrictions come after hundreds of households were left without water or with low pressure this week. A three-year-old girl has been attacked by a dog in Ashford prompting calls for the animal to be taken away. The child was with her mother when she was pinned to the ground and had chucks of her hair pulled out. A former Eurovison contestant from Tonbridge speaks about how a new treatment for Cystic Fibrosis has allowed her to have a baby. Bianca Nicholas has joined a campaign to make sure everyone has access to the life-changing drug. And in sport,  the Ashes are underway at Edgbaston with Kent's Zak Crawley opening the batting for England. There's T20 Blast action as well with the Spitfires travelling to Lords to take on Middlesex  

People in Ashford are worried that replacing cobbles in the town centre with tarmac will lead to an increase in people on e-scooters and skateboards.The stones have been removed as part of work by the county council designed to improve the 'look and feel' of the area and improve safety - but not everyone is convinced it is a good idea.Also in today's podcast, a Kent MP insists security forces are prepared for the challenge of the coronation, after a man was arrested outside Buckingham Palace.He's thought to have thrown shotgun cartridges into the grounds. Hear from Tonbridge and Malling's Tom Tugendhat.The dad of a Sittingbourne teenager who took their own life after taking a controversial acne drug, says warnings about it don't go far enough.Melvin Sillcock thinks Roaccutane should be banned - but a report's concluded the benefits still outweigh the risks. We've been getting reaction from Medway GP Dr Julian Spinks.We're continuing our countdown to the Coronation and today you can hear from the Archbishop of Canterbury whose job it will be to crown King Charles and Queen Camilla.Plus, we've been finding out how one village school in Kent will be teaching pupils about the significance of the occasion.And in sport, a big crowd's expected at Priestfield tonight for the Kent Senior Cup final.Around 2,000 tickets have been sold for the game between Chatham Town and Margate.

In this episode I interview small business accountant Wendy Ross. Wendy is a client (I built her website and she is a member of the Marketing Membership) and over the time we have worked together she has clarified who she works with and what she offers, with the result that her business has gone from strength to strength. We talk about this journey in the episode as well as some tips on the value of working with an accountantWendy's linksWebsite: tonbridgeaccountants.co.ukInstagram: instagram.com/tonbridgeaccountantsLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wendy-ross-%E2%AD%90%EF%B8%8F-fcca-85b82911Resources:Find us at https://beyondthekitchentable.co.ukFree PDF download: https://beyondthekitchentable.co.uk/downloads/Blog post https://beyondthekitchentable.co.uk/blogFollow us at https://www.instagram.com/beyondthektEmail sayhello@beyondthekitchentable.co.uk

Phil explains how to run a sustainable club and Tonbridge Angel's model - great insight. I cover King's Lynn news, naming rights in the Premier League, streaming developments in the Football League and how clubs inflate profits through players sales and purchases. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stephen-cleeve/message

Where do things stand in Ukraine six months into the war? How have the United States, Britain, and NATO contributed to the war effort to this point? What more could we do in the months ahead? What broader lessons should we draw? To discuss these questions, we are joined by Tom Tugendhat, Conservative MP for Tonbridge and Malling and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the British parliament. According to Tugendhat: the end result is clear. The courage and commitment of the Ukrainian people means that Ukraine will not and cannot be a Russian satellite or a Russian colony again. Nonetheless, as he argues, America, Britain, and the rest of the NATO allies must continue to support Ukraine on the military and diplomatic fronts to ensure a successful outcome. Tugendhat and Kristol also consider lessons we might learn from the new geopolitical situation we face following the withdrawal from Afghanistan and Putin's invasion of Ukraine. On this front, Tugendhat presents a compelling case for strengthening the alliance of free states around the world for the sake of our own security and prosperity and for the security of the world at large.

Where do things stand in Ukraine six months into the war? How have the United States, Britain, and NATO contributed to the war effort to this point? What more could we do in the months ahead? What broader lessons should we draw? To discuss these questions, we are joined by Tom Tugendhat, Conservative MP for Tonbridge and Malling and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the British parliament. According to Tugendhat: the end result is clear. The courage and commitment of the Ukrainian people means that Ukraine will not and cannot be a Russian satellite or a Russian colony again. Nonetheless, as he argues, America, Britain, and the rest of the NATO allies must continue to support Ukraine on the military and diplomatic fronts to ensure a successful outcome. Tugendhat and Kristol also consider lessons we might learn from the new geopolitical situation we face following the withdrawal from Afghanistan and Putin's invasion of Ukraine. On this front, Tugendhat presents a compelling case for strengthening the alliance of free states around the world for the sake of our own security and prosperity and for the security of the world at large.

It's the birthday of the author of the style guide known as "Fowler's Modern English Usage"--Henry Watson Fowler, born in Tonbridge, England (1858).

I'm Philip Holden and this is Ideas in Writing - the podcast where we talk to creative people about words - mostly from books that they have written and recently published... The guests bring along a word and so do I...if only I could rememnber that...In this episode I talk with Robin Ince - Live at the Oast Theatre in Tonbridge after he visited Mr Books Bookshop - about his new book, The Importance of Being Interested.Robin started out in standup, having done an English degree at Royal Holloway College. He then developed material based on science and on pseudo-science and launched his, now famous “Twelve Lessons and Carols” – originally for atheists (but now open to everyone). Of course Robin is best known for presenting The Infinite Monkey Cage with Professor Brian Cox but he's a very busy man – a writer and performer and having just completed his 100 bookshop tour. But he does so much more – most of it available through his Cosmic Shambles Network and you can check out any gigs (and Robin's blog) on his website. Robin is also on Twitter @robinince Ideas in Writing is produced with the support of Mr Books Bookshop in Tonbridge - the home of inspiring, imaginative and intelligent books, gifts and conversation. They're on Twitter too @mrbooks_ton. But most importantly of all, you can visit them (in the lovely market town of Tonbridge in Kent) for a browse any Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm.Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes coming up. Find out more at the Mr Books website. CREDITS & links You can order Robin's The Importance of Being Interested just by clicking on the title and you can order his previous book about humour and humanity I'm a Joke and so are You the same way. Ideas in Writing is recorded and produced by Philip Holden on Acast.comThe Ideas in Writing theme "Farting Around" is by Kevin MacLeod Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The "Light Easy March" sting is by ...dog http://www.besonic.com/dogSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/ideasinwriting.See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.