KentOnline

Bosses at a Kent solar farm have apologised after using water from a roadside standpipe to clean panels, when taps in nearby homes were running dry. A bowser was seen arriving at Cleve Hill Park in Graveney near Faversham during the outages in the recent hot weather. Also in today's episode, a mother and daughter from Maidstone have been jailed after going on a shopping spree with a credit card stolen from a 91-year-old woman. It was taken from the victim's home and one of the women was found by police hiding in a cupboard. Two cars have been caught reaching speeds of more than 100 miles per hour while racing on the M2. Officers recorded the vehicles as they headed coastbound between junctions 2 and 3 near Rochester in September last year. The family of a Canterbury woman who died after being dragged and kicked by a horse after it was spooked by dogs are calling for body protectors to be compulsory. Ewa Larsson had been leading the horse near Deal when it happened last August. A petition against plans to build 20,000 homes in Kent has been handed in to the Prime Minister. The Stop The Sprawl campaign argues large scale developments in Lenham, Lidsing, Sittingbourne and Faversham will damage the character of the area. And, Legend from Gladiators is going to be on the new series of Celebrity Googlebox. Matt Morsia from Hythe joins the line-up when it returns to Channel 4 tomorrow night. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The owners of a seafood business in Hythe have told KentOnline that a video posted on social media by the local MP about so called 'dodgy shops' has contributed to their decision to close. Boathouse Fisheries opened a fishmongers and bistro on the High Street in February last year, but after 16 months in the town, they're shutting because of rising business rates, higher wages, increasing energy bills and reduced footfall. However, they've also criticised a video posted online by MP Tony Vaughan. Also in today's podcast, after more than a dozen people lost their lives in water during the recent heatwave, children in part of Kent are being taught about how to stay safe in the sea. Experts are visiting Sholden and Northbourne primary schools in Deal over the next two days. Hear from William Thomson who is the founder of Tide School. Plans for a solar farm on green belt near Sevenoaks have been rejected. It's after a previous decision on the proposals for farmland between Ridley and New Ash Green was pushed back. We've got reaction from a local councillor. And in sport, Gillingham have added to their squad ahead of next season. Zane Albarus has signed a two year deal from Brighton and Hove Albion and the 20 year-old midfielder says he's looking forward to impressing at Priestfield. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's claimed significant changes to IVF provision in Kent have been brought in 'under the radar'. From the start of April, the number of cycles on the NHS has been cut from two to one, while the upper age limit for women to start treatment has been lowered from 40 to 38. Health papers due to be discussed by councillors this week suggests the change brings Kent in-line with most other areas. Hear from a county councillor who is also a former NHS director. Also in today's podcast, a dad who lives near Maidstone has been telling us about the impact of ongoing water supply disruption. South East Water customers started experiencing problems 11 days ago - with the company blaming high demand during the heatwave. We've also been speaking to the company's head of water resources and the Ashford MP who is promising to hold water firms to account. A group that works with young families in Folkestone has been telling us about some of the pressures parents are facing, as they appeal for more volunteers. Home Start Shepway says issues including screen time, diet and cost of living can leave people struggling. And in sport,  former Gillingham midfielder Euan Williams has signed for National League South side Dover Athletic. The 23-year-old was one of 14 senior players to leave the Gills at the end of last season - as boss Gareth Ainsworth oversees a major overhaul. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A mum's told the podcast how she burst into tears after finding out a hospice in Kent that supports her son, will be withdrawing its service for children. Six year-old Kit Slessor-Pavely has life-limiting complex needs and is regularly visited by staff from the Hospice in the Weald in Pembury. But the charity say fundraising hasn't kept up with rising costs and 10 jobs are at risk. Hear from Kit's mum Kaz who has set up a petition. Also in today's episode, around 4,000 homes in Kent are still experiencing problems with their water supply. Low pressure and intermittent supply has been impacting South East Water customers for over a week now. The company blamed it all on high demand during the recent hot weather. Hear from people who have been staging a protest in Whitstable. A group that was set up 30 years ago to help people in Medway with asthma say they're facing an uncertain future. MASH had to stop running regular clinics as the building they were in needed repairs - but that's led to their NHS funding being pulled. We've been speaking to Bridget Nightingale who's a trustee and co-founder. And, it's hoped young people will be able to learn more about politics at a new summer school in Thanet. MP Polly Billington is setting up a programme to inspire the next generation of leaders. It starts in July for people aged between 18 and 24. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A huge pile of rubbish has been left outside a block of flats in Medway for weeks, with residents complaining about the smell during the hot weather. Council-contracted bin men have refused to clear up the mountain of bin bags and cardboard in the car park of Samuels Tower in Chatham and landlords who took over the block last year say it's an ongoing problem. Also in today's podcast, people in Whitstable are being warned their water supply could stay patchy over the weekend, after taps ran dry. South East Water says supply should be back today, but it's still under strain, after 8,000 homes were left without running water. Meantime, the leader of Kent County Council has announced she's setting up a Water Resilience Partnership in a bid to hold companies and regulators to account. Staff at a museum in Medway have been given advice on how to distance themselves from the views of Charles Dickens - despite not receiving any complaints. Workers at the Guildhall in Rochester have been told how to answer questions on the author's opinions on race and the British Empire. And in sport, Gillingham have made their first signing of the summer. Midfielder James Brophy previously played for Cambridge United - and helped them win promotion from league two last season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The body of a teenage boy has been found in Swanscombe following concerns about a swimmer in a pond. Police, paramedics and fire crews were called to water near Galley Hill Road at around 3 o'clock yesterday afternoon. Scuba divers were also spotted heading to the scene. Also in today's podcast, TikTok influencers have denied fuelling trouble on a Kent beach over the bank holiday which led to a number of arrests and people being moved on by police. Videos shared on the social media site described a gathering at Viking Bay as 'Broadstairs' Biggest Beach Link-up' - with a comment suggesting another could take place. South East Water say around 18,000 customers across Kent are being impacted by supply problems which started last Saturday. Residents in Whitstable, Herne Bay, Maidstone and Ashford are among those affected. Bosses are blaming high demand during the hot weather but there are now calls for a water emergency to be declared. Figures seen by the KentOnline Podcast show Kent has the second-highest number of school exclusions in the country for racist, homophobic, transphobic and disablist abuse. The department for education data shows a 68% rise between the start of 2022 and the same time last year. Reporter Alex Langridge is on the episode to explain the figures in more detail. And, a dessert business from Maidstone is set to launch a new weekly pop-up stall at the The Royal Star Arcade next month. Aurelie Luxe Treats, which specialises in mini pancakes and waffles will begin trading every Saturday from the 6th June.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Antisocial behaviour during the hot weather in Thanet over the weekend has led to six people being arrested. Dispersal orders were put in place in Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate with officers also called to reports of underage drinking. One teenager was detained for assaulting an emergency worker and possession of cannabis - while another was held for criminal damage and assault. Also on today's podcast, disruption to water supplies is continuing for residents in various parts of Kent. South East Water have apologised to customers in Whitstable, Herne Bay and Maidstone. Hear from the dad of a five-month-old baby who ran out of water yesterday. A Kent mum says she may have to give up her job to get her disabled son to school after his transport provision was changed. 18-year-old Thomas Hedley used to be able to get a free mini bus to his special needs school in Tonbridge. Now his parents have been offered £4,000 a year to arrange an alternative. The KentOnline Podcast has been hearing how a new community learning centre in Folkestone will help people gain skills for new careers. Specially-designed classrooms have opened as part of the new library building in the town centre. And, A Kent toy company's warning about a rise in fake NeeDoh fidget toys being sold across the UK. Bigjigs, which is based in Folkestone, is the official distributor of the products in the country. Bosses say we can identify the fakes by their strong chemical smell, greasy feel and unbranded packaging. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A bin lorry driver, who injured a woman after crashing into her car at a crossroads near Maidstone, has been spared jail and allowed to keep his licence. Dino Farrell, 52, from Bedson Walk in Rainham, failed to stop at a four-way junction in Langley in February 2024 - having not seen a ‘Stop’ sign and an unbroken white line marking. Also in today's podcast, lifeboat crews in Kent have issued a warning after being called out to several emergencies involving jet skis during the hot weather. One was found abandoned near a shipping lane off Sheppey over the Bank Holiday weekend - while another man was rescued after getting stranded on the south side of Hoo Island on the River Medway. Ten years on from the Brexit referendum, a group who want the UK to rejoin the EU will be walking through Kent over the next few days. David Cameron was the Prime Minister when we were asked in 2016 if we wanted to leave the European Union. Campaigners are now walking from Parliament Square to Brussels. The KentOnline Podcast has been hearing how a new book tells the full story of work to rescue five lions from Ukraine and bring them to Kent. Cam Whitnall, who runs the Big Cat Sanctuary near Ashford, organised a mission to save the animals from the war-torn country in 2024. And in sport, it was two victories for Kent in their double-header against Sussex Sharks in the T20 Blast. The men's team reached their victory target with 10 balls remaining at Canterbury yesterday, while the women won by nine wickets. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Kent widow who was conned out of almost £150,000 said her late husband was driven out of his home by a cowboy builder. Two men have been convicted of fraud following an eight-week trial, after scamming victims out of a total of £1.3 million. Also in today's episode, there are concerns children in Kent could go hungry during half term as a voucher scheme has been scrapped. The county council previously provided £10 a week for pupils on free school meals to use during the holidays, but it has been withdrawn due to 'funding constraints'. Roads are expected to be busy ahead of the bank holiday getaway, with thousands of people heading to the Port of Dover and Eurotunnel at Folkestone. There is a warning new EU border checks could impact traffic. Hundreds of people are going to be in Canterbury this weekend as the city hosts the only UK leg of a major European race. The urban orienteering event will see competitors using a map and compass to navigate between check points. In cricket, it is a double header as Kent's men and women get their campaigns underway in the T20 Blast today. They are travelling to take on Middlesex in their first group game at Lord's. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A grandmother who brake-checked a driver on a dual carriageway leading to a crash which killed a motorcyclist has been sentenced to five years in prison. 55-year-old Collette Gibson from Lime Close in South Ockendon, Essex was convicted of causing Paul Wright’s death on the A249 near Sittingbourne in 2022. Also in today's episode, a registered sex offender who was caught talking to a 13-year-old girl online has been locked up for two years. Police have released footage of his interview, where he claimed he only started the conversation to get her banned from a website. A zombie knife has been seized from a teenager in Tonbridge as work continues to tackle violent crime in the county. Kent's Police and Crime Commissioner says work by the Violence Reduction Unit has led to a 10% drop in knife crime, but conversations still need to be had. The MP for Tunbridge Wells says it's "absolutely possible" to turn things around at South East Water as the search continues for a new boss. The company's chief exec David Hinton is going to be replaced after major criticism following a series of outages. An historic village pub near Dartford has reopened its doors after being shut for almost a year. The Ship on Main Road in Sutton-at-Hone has been taken over by Nathan Hill - who is hoping to save it from decline. And, bosses at an outdoor pool in Medway have told us they are expecting bumper crowds to kick off the season as temperatures are due to soar. The Lido at the Strand in Gillingham will welcome visitors for the first time this year on Saturday. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

East Kent Hospitals is offering employees one-off payments to leave their jobs as part of plans to reduce their workforce. Health campaigners have raised concerns about the loss of clinical staff, which bosses insist won't happen. We are being warned to expect a busy weekend on the roads as Operation Brock comes into force on the M20. The Bank Holiday and half term getaway will see thousands of people heading through Dover and Folkestone. The MP for Folkestone and Hythe is calling for better support and action to stop ex-offenders committing more crimes. Tony Vaughan says the re-offending rate is twice as high if people are unemployed, compared to those who have a job. Thousands of children across Kent are set to benefit from a new £8 million creative learning centre - described as a "game changer" for young people. Bosses at The Marlowe Theatre want to restore the 12th century Poor Priests Hospital in the city centre. And hear from the team behind a new wine bar and restaurant in Whitstable. Keller is taking over a site on Harbour Street. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Detectives are investigating a crash near Tunbridge Wells which has killed a man and woman in their 60s. The car they were in came off the carriageway of the A228 near Pembury and collided with trees in woodland yesterday. A lorry driver who was on a video call with his wife when he caused a fatal crash on the M20 has been jailed. The 58-year-old ploughed into a stationary car near Lenham last November, killing dad-of-two Arran McManus. A man has been sent to prison after police found a large number of cannabis plants above a takeaway in Maidstone. Bodycam footage shows the moment officers made the discovery on Sandling Road in October 2021. Bosses at a farm shop near Canterbury have revealed how they have turned to social media in a bid to catch suspected shoplifters. Gibson's in Wingham has started sharing CCTV footage of alleged offenders after alcohol and other products were stolen. A Kent fostering agency has been telling us how they're coping amid a national shortage of carers. Credo Care in Lydd specialises in finding loving homes for children with complex needs and disabilities. And, a special needs school on Sheppey has opened a new sensory room and garden. Elmley Dray in Minster has installed a music station and messy play activities to help pupils let off steam when they need time away from class. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hundreds of Kent children under the age of 10 have been recorded as suspects in crimes, ranging from violence and arson to weapon possession A Freedom of Information Request has revealed the youngest person to be reported was a one-year-old girl. Also in today's episode, residents in Maidstone say water is still pouring from a manhole cover - six months after the leak was reported. They have raised concerns about bills going up while supplies are being wasted. A man who works for the air ambulance charity that covers Kent has been telling us how he wants to give back, after they saved his life following a near-fatal crash. Warren Porritt is teaming up with three colleagues on a fundraising challenge to walk five marathons in five days. It is hoped new measures being introduced in Margate will tackle issues around underage drinking. The Community Alcohol Partnership sees the police work with the council, schools, shops and community groups to educate youngsters and reduce anti-social behaviour. And hear from a Kent dad who has realised his dream of owning a coffee shop to pass on a legacy to his kids, motivated by his difficult childhood in care. Husband-and-wife team Barry and Sam Linsell have opened the Old Bank Coffee shop in the former NatWest building on London Road in Larkfield. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Kent auctioneer who starred on episodes of Homes Under the Hammer, has died. Clive Emson started his career as an estate agent before setting up his own company. Also in today's podcast, the Canterbury MP has revealed she would consider re-joining the Labour Party, if Andy Burnham became leader. The Mayor of Greater Manchester is going to ask to stand in a by-election in a bid to make a return to Westminster. It's thought he could then make a leadership bid against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer who's been under pressure since last week's local election results. There's going to be a protest in Folkestone this weekend over the amount of sewage that's still ending up in our seas and water ways. It's as no swim warnings remain in force at near by Dymchurch and Littlestone beaches, because the water quality there is rated as poor. The parents of young boy from Kent with Tourette Syndrome have told the podcast there's a severe lack of support groups available. Seven year-old Max from Sellindge was diagnosed last year but first started showing signs of tics when he was three. After being dismissed by a number of GPs, he was seen by a specialist in London. A boutique in Gravesend has closed suddenly, with the owner blaming an increase in running costs. For Girlys has been trading in Stone Street for the past 30 years but is shutting down after a 65% increase in rent and rising overheads. And in sport, just days after signing a new contract at Whitstable Town, Jamie Coyle has quit as manager. He's joining Margate along with assistant Matt Longhurst. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Medway man has been banned from a gym after threatening to kill his former partner. A court's been told Kyal Ferguson also said he would harm himself - and damaged his ex's property after turning up at her home. The 39 year-old from Frost Crescent in Chatham admitted harassment and criminal damage. Also in today's podcast, major repairs could be carried out on a property in Dover that's home to a number of businesses, after rain started leaking through balconies. Dolphin House in Market Square was built in the 1950s and people who own companies below flats above say the situation is particularly bad during heavy downpours. Kent's police and crime commissioner has launched a survey about changes to policing that'll reduce the number of forces across England and Wales. The government announced the idea earlier this year. A Kent man who spent six years trying to have a baby with his wife has described their IVF journey as a turmoil and brutal. Toby and Katie Trice had two failed rounds on the NHS and spent thousands on private tests. Toby, who's 35, is now a racing driver and is using that to raise awareness of male infertility problems. And in sport, the man in charge of England cricket says Zak Crawley's time in the national side isn't over for good. The Kent batter has been dropped from the Test squad for the first game against New Zealand this summer. He struggled during the Ashes defeat in Australia over the winter, hear from England's director of cricket. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A major incident was declared at a block of flats in Maidstone, following a flood which caused an electrical fault. Miller Heights on Lower Stone Street has been issued with a prohibition notice after a burst pipe in the basement wiped out the power supply. Around 200 people have been forced to leave their homes and are being supported by the local authority. Also in today's podcast, there's serious division within the Labour party as the Prime Minister continues to face pressure to resign. Yesterday, Sir Keir Starmer told his top team he won't be quitting, despite taking responsibility for poor results at last week's local elections in England. Around 80 MPs have called on the PM to go - but 100 or so have signed a letter supporting him. Hear from two Kent MPs on either side of the debate. A sauna and steam room at a sports centre in Medway is going to be replaced with a gym for under 15s. Medway council is spending £700,000 on changing facilities at the site they run in Strood. As mental health awareness continues, we've been told how hundreds of people in Kent have been offered help, thanks to a service that provides homelessness, debt and mental health support at the same time. Live Well Kent and Medway is a network of charities and organisations aiming to break the cycle for people struggling with their wellbeing and cost of living crisis. And in sport, Kent have added another player to their squad ahead of this summer's T20 Blast. Dian Forrester comes in as a replacement for Senuran Muthusamy who suffered a knee injury at the start of the season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Three lorry drivers who attacked a man at a service station on the M2 have been jailed. A court's been told the victim suffered multiple fractures, a bleed on the brain and seizure after it happened at the site in Gillingham in February. Also in today's podcast, a Kent MP has joined calls for Sir Keir Starmer to resign after stepping down from her government role. Naushabah Khan, who represents Gillingham and Rainham, says the Prime Minister has "lost the confidence of the public". Folkestone and Hythe's Tony Vaughan is also calling for an orderly transition of leadership. For the first time, we're able to hear the moment a teaching assistant from Iwade admitted to spitting at a child in her care. The 47-year-old was questioned by police following accusations she'd physically abused four disabled pupils. A man who was a key member of a county line drug supply network in east Kent has been jailed. The 29-year-old was identified as a key suspect in 2022 - when a car he was driving spend away from police in Canterbury, reaching speeds of 72 miles per hours in a 30 zone. A Kent driving instructor has told us he's concerned about big changes to booking a test that come into force today. Learners are now the only ones who can do it via the government website. Previously instructors were able to deal with test dates, and amend them if necessary. And, a new group's been set up to try and improve standards for mental health nurses in Kent. Demand for support services has risen in recent years, and now a Nursing Council has been established to give staff more of a voice. The announcement comes as we mark International Nurses Day which also falls during mental health awareness week. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cash payments at council-run car parks in part of Kent could become a thing of the past. Bosses in Dover are looking at ditching all existing pay-and-display machines and replacing them with cashless units. It would force drivers to use contactless cards or mobile phone app payments instead. We've been finding out what some motorists in the town think. Also in today's podcast, there's pressure on the Prime Minister following local election results. Labour lost more than 1,400 councillors and 40 local authorities in England - while Reform made significant gains. There were also good results for the Green Party and the Lib Dems. At the start of mental health awareness week, work's underway at a Kent school to recruit wellbeing ambassadors. Students at Herne Bay High are going to be trained on how to spot issues and have meaningful conversations.  It fits in with this years theme of taking action - hear from Simon Dolby from East Kent Mind. One of our most read stories today is that a long-awaited airshow at Manston Airport has been cancelled for a second year running. The news has left people disappointed. Lucy Hudson has the details on why it's been axed and what happens if you had booked tickets. And in sport, a leading disability golfer from Kent is hoping to encourage more children into the sport. Kipp Popert is currently world number one after winning the US Adaptive Open three times and the G4D Tour. He's invited some of the biggest names in the sport to the London Golf Club in Sevenoaks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A man who had been living off-grid in north Kent for more than 30 years, says he feels 'absolutely dead' after his property was demolished. Bob Thwaites had called a caravan on Swanscombe Peninsula home since 1991, but the structure - and everything inside - has been levelled to the ground by the landowners of the site. Also on today's podcast, a dangerous driver who led police on a 20 minute chase after refusing to stop in Edenbridge has been jailed. The 23-year-old was spotted acting suspiciously on Mont St Aignan Way last month and followed into south London. The chief executive of South East Water has resigned. David Hinton has been under fire since water outages affected thousands of customers in Kent before and after the new year. A Faversham man who lost both of his parents to brain tumours has revealed how it's now inspired his career. Ollie Payne's dad passed away when he was just seven and his mum died just five weeks after being diagnosed 10 years later. And, events are being held in Kent to mark David Attenborough's 100th birthday. The broadcaster has worked on more than 100 nature documentaries during his career, which spans across eight decades. Hear from pupils near Ashford who are among those celebrating. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A teenage motorcyclist who died in a crash near Sittingbourne has been described as the 'kindest of souls'. Oliver Tarvit collided with a VW transporter while riding along Lower Road in Tonge last month. The 17 year-old's parents have now vowed to improve the safety of the 60 mile per hour road. Also in today's podcast, a union's warning staff at Darent Valley Hospital are struggling to maintain safe hygiene standards because of a water supply issue. A fault in the heating system means taps in a large part of the building in Dartford have been deemed contaminated since last week. UNISON claims patients are being put at risk. Hear from their south east regional secretary and the interim chief executive of the hospital. Victims of domestic abuse in Maidstone are being given an easier way of accessing mental health support. A new pilot will see experts working alongside volunteers at a drop-in hub. Bosses at a Kent shopping centre say they're now at 100 percent occupancy, just a year after taking over the site. The Forum in Sittingbourne was struggling with nine empty units before Vanguard Properties UK Ltd bought it for £2.4 million. It's now full and average weekly footfall is up 24%. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

People living next to a building site in Medway say their lives have been made a misery by dust. The first phase of the Capstone Oaks development off North Dane Way in Lordswood will have 91 homes, but neighbours in Hampshire Close and Barleymow Close have complained. Hear from one of them who says construction noise is also an issue. We've also got a response from developers. Also in today's podcast, the Dartford MP has told us that lessons need to be learnt - after a major water supply issue at a Kent hospital. Patients and staff have been told not to drink or wash in water from taps in a large part of Darent Valley. The air ambulance charity covering Kent has raised serious concerns about the impact of the Iran war on the cost of fuel for their helicopters. Bosses say aviation fuel has risen by 63% since the start of the conflict which means the organisation is having to find an extra £25,000 a month to fly life-saving missions. Three lions have arrived at an animal park in Kent as part of a vital breeding programme. There are currently less than 600 Asiatic lions left in the world and Theo, Rakesh and Thor are settling into life at Wingham Wildlife Park. MD Tony Binskin has been chatting to us. And, the line up for this year's Pride event in Canterbury has been confirmed. It's celebrating its 10th anniversary and will return to the city's Dane John Gardens after they underwent a renovation. Hear from Jon Fitter-Harding who is one of the organisers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Hythe man who stole thousands of pounds from his dad and secretly arranged his cremation without telling his family has appeared in court. Richard Avery had been estranged from dad George for 20 years, and took cash from his bank account within days of his death in 2022. The 56 year-old from Battery Point admitted fraud by false representation. Also on today's podcast, hear the moment a man was kicked out of a Canterbury City Council meeting just days after being convicted of harassing a councillor. Kenneth Little narrowly avoided being issued with a restraining order after appearing in court recently. Campaigners fighting to reopen a derelict cinema in Deal have staged a protest while dressed as Star Wars characters. The Regent building has been empty since 2008 and recent plans to redevelop the site fell through. A Kent mum's told the podcast how she's determined not to let her son's deafness define who he is as a person. David from Hythe was born during covid and failed his newborn hearing screening - he was eventually diagnosed with complex bilateral hearing loss at six months old. Mum Tracey Washington immediately learnt sign language and 6 year-old David's recently been fitted with implants. In sport, it was a win for Gillingham over the bank holiday weekend - finishing the season on a high. They beat Shrewsbury Town 1-0 at Priestfield on Saturday - ending the campaign 17th in league two. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Three teenagers who killed a man on a Sheppey beach are starting a total of 19 years in custody. The group attacked Alexander Cashford two days after he'd met one of them by chance in an arcade in Leysdown last August. They accused the 49-year-old from Rainham of being a paedophile, he was then hit with a bottle and pelted with rocks. Also in today's podcast, the chair of South East Water has resigned as a group of MPs say they have no confidence in the company's leaders. Chris Train has stepped down following a report by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs committee. We've got reaction from Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin. The leader of Kent County Council says the learning curve has been "enormous" after Reform UK took control of the authority. It's been exactly a year since we voted in local elections. Linden Kemkaran has been speaking to the local democracy reporting service. A Kent homelessness charity is welcoming the new Renters' Rights Act which has come into force today. It gives private tenants more protection and bans so-called no fault evictions. Hear from Tom Neumark who is the chief executive of Canterbury based Porchlight. Rochester is set to welcome thousands of visitors this weekend for the annual Sweeps festival. It's one of the largest May Day celebrations of its kind - and will see Morris dancers and groups from around the world performing in the high street. A walk among the bluebells in Halling is taking place this weekend in memory of a little girl who died from a brain tumour. Seven-year-old Sofia Le Brunn-Healey passed away in March last year, after being diagnosed in November 2023. And in sport,  it's Gillingham's final game of the season this weekend. They're welcoming Shrewsbury Town to Priestfield tomorrow. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A woman has been ordered to repaint her home after being told the current bright blue shade is 'unsympathetic' with a conservation area in Deal. Mary Kenny had spent more than £3,000 having the property in West Street decorated but has now received a letter from the council. She has been speaking to our reporter Louis Walker. Also on today's podcast, an investigation has found a knife attack might have been prevented if a man had received better mental health care in Kent. A 31-year-old stabbed another man just a month after being discharged from the care of the Kent and Medway NHS Social Care Partnership Trust in 2020. An ombudsman has found a series of failings by the Trust in the 12 months leading up to the stabbing. Hear from the chief executive of the ombudsman and the patient's mother. A lorry driver who lured a teenage girl into his cab in Greenhithe before attacking her has been jailed. The suspect was identified after being arrested for another offence and his DNA uploaded to a database. A pilot facility has been set up in Kent to turn waste plastic into sustainable aviation fuel. Clean Planet Technologies are researching ways of using materials that can't be recycled to power planes in a more environmentally-friendly way. They've opened a site at the Discovery Park in Sandwich. And in sport, Gillingham striker Sam Vokes has spoken about his decision to retire. The 36-year-old signed for the Gills last summer and has scored three times in 35 appearances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

People living in part of Sheppey think a person armed with a catapult is responsible for a campaign of attacks on property and vehicles. Neighbours in Nautilus Drive and Nautilus Close say they've suffered smashed windows and broken windscreens over the past three weeks. Ball bearings and marbles have been discovered in the rubble. Also in today's podcast, you can hear from two mum's from Whitstable who've developed a new program to help children whose parents are separated or divorced. Tara Flynn and Kim Rojas-Powell say many youngsters don't meet the threshold for support and are falling through the cracks. A new music school has opened in Swanley for teenagers with special needs. SupaJam has moved into the former NatWest building following an £800,000 renovation. A married couple who've run a shop in Snodland for 25 years have announced they're retiring. Theresa and Francis Britto say they've enjoyed serving the community through their business at the Papermakers Arms in Constitution Hill. Reporter Elli Hodgson has been to meet them. And in sport, Gillingham have decided to cancel their end of season awards ceremony. It was due to take place following their final match of the campaign against Shrewsbury Town at Priestfield on Saturday. Some fans had called for the event not to go ahead following a disappointing season in league two with the side currently 18th. We've got reaction from Matt who runs the Gills in the Blood YouTube channel. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The former manager of a pub in Dartford has been jailed for fraud after taking more than £100,000 from the business. A court heard how the 33-year-old repeatedly failed to deposit all the weekend earnings from The Clipper at the bank. Hear from our reporter who covered the case in court. Also in today's podcast, a court's heard how masked raiders stole £140,000 worth of motorbikes from a warehouse in Medway, after a loading bay was left open by an employee. The gang of 12 targeted Noatum Logistics on the Isle of Grain in July last year. A water company's admitted releasing untreated sewage into rivers and seas across north Kent. The Environment Agency charged Southern Water with releasing debris, diesel and waste into waterways at various times over a three year period. People living near an inland border facility in Kent say their gardens and properties are still being damaged by lorries going the wrong way. The Sevington site in Ashford became operational in 2021 and was given permanent status last December. A river crossing in Gravesend has been restored, completing a section of the world's longest coastal path. The £80,000 swing bridge on Gordon Promenade East near the canal basin connects one side of the town to the other. An event supporting grassroots artists in Kent is returning for a second year. The Dover Summer Series will see various up-and-coming musicians perform at The Booking Hall between May and July. And in sport, Gillingham's Sam Vokes has announced his retirement. The 36-year-old striker has confirmed the Gills' final game of the season against Shrewsbury on Saturday will be his last in professional football. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Strood woman has been banned from Bluewater after being found with £5,000 worth of stolen goods. Sonia Virdi, 36, of Cooling Road was caught on CCTV stealing from stores including New Look, Pull and Bear and River Island in November and December last year. Also in today's podcast, a man suspected of stealing a phone from a child has been caught, after jumping out of a window in Maidstone as he tried to avoid police. Sean McFetridge - who's 43 and from Yalding Hill - was escaping as officers entered a property in Hope Street on April 17th. A man who started taking ketamine when he was just 14 has issued a stark warning to other young people as he recovers at a facility in Kent. Use of the drug has been growing - particularly among young people. At his worst, Joel Booker was taking around 14 grams of the substance a day which left him with serious bladder damage. He's been speaking about the treatment he's received at Kenward Trust in Yalding. An appeal has been launched by a Medway charity as they look to raise money after their funding was cut. Whoo Cares is based on the Hoo Peninsula and helps residents with things like medical appointments, housing and benefits, and community activities. And in sport, Gareth Ainsworth says he's experienced his worst day as Gillingham manager. They were beaten 6-2 at Barnet in league two on Saturday. The home side needed a win to be in with a chance of pushing for the play-offs while the Gills were playing for pride after a disappointing season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A thug has avoided jail after knocking a celebrity DJ unconscious in a shocking attack caught on camera at a Kent gig. Mobile phone footage shows the moment Zack Bradley punched fellow disc-jockey Fat Tony to the floor at The Lido in Cliftonville drawing gasps from the crowd as the music cuts out. Also in today’s podcast, a couple with three young children, including a 10-week-old baby, have told of their heartbreak after they “lost everything” in a house fire. Jodie Pashley and Craig Harker’s home in Margate, went up in flames earlier this month, and have been living in a hotel ever since. You can hear from a former Kent soldier who suffered with his mental health after losing colleagues in the line of duty who is making final preparations to run the London marathon. Oli Aspinall from Gillingham worked in bomb disposal - and says while he didn't lose any limbs, he lost his mind. A Kent college is open to visitors this weekend, offering a rare opportunity to see lambs being born.  Thousands of people are expected at the annual Lambing Weekend at Hadlow College in Tonbridge.  And in football, with just two games of the season left, its a trip to Barnet for Gillingham this weekend. The visitors are playing for pride following a disappointing season - while the home side are pushing for the play-offs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are calls for parking charges introduced in part of Sheppey to be scrapped, because of the impact it's having on local businesses. Traders in Queenborough say they've noticed a drop in footfall since the start of the month when motorists were made to pay. Also in today's pocdast, the Government's due to sign a new multimillion pound deal with France in an attempt to stop small boat Channel crossings to Kent. It'll see hundreds more police and military personnel deployed to French beaches. More than 41,000 people made the journey last year - beating previous records. We've got reaction from refugee charity Care4Calais. A Kent chemotherapy nurse is leading a rally outside the Houses of Parliament today, calling for the age when women first have a mammogram to be lowered, Routine screenings currently start between 50 and 53, but Gemma Reeves wants it reduced to 40. A Whitstable dad says he's been inspired to help others with Tourette Syndrome after watching I Swear. The Bafta winning film tells the story of a man living with the condition. Hear from Frankie Lowe who was only diagnosed last year despite having tics since he was a child. Community celebrations are taking place across Gravesham and Dartford today to mark Saint George's Day. Hundreds of children from more than 20 schools will be taking part in the festivities which include parades and live entertainment. And in sport, the Maidstone United manager has praised his squad after their victory in the Kent Senior Cup final last night. They beat Tonbridge Angels 2-0 at Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium - despite going down to ten men in the second half. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A hearing has been told the headteacher of a school near Canterbury took her own life amid fears she was developing dementia. Alison Higgins had worked at Barham Primary for 10 years before her death, and was described as thoughtful, supporting and caring. Also in today's podcast, the head of a special needs school in Kent has warned they may be forced to make redundancies following a lower than expected funding increase. Five Acre Wood School, in Maidstone, supports nearly 900 students with severe and complex needs. They have received a 1% per-pupil uplift in cash from Kent County Council, but that doesn't account for rising inflation or additional cost pressures. Hear from the head teacher and the response from the local authority. The mother of a young cyclist who was killed in a collision with a bin lorry in Swanley is calling for improved safety measures. 19-year-old Jack Bruce died following the crash on Swanley Lane in September 2021. Investigations from the family's legal team found the refuse truck had one of its mirrors poorly adjusted, and had indicated only moments before. The MP for Sittingbourne and Sheppey has led a debate in the Commons over the future of the wreck of the SS Richard Montgomery. The vessel sank off the coast of Sheppey in 1944 and government contractors have now been appointed to remove the masts following safety concerns. A Medway woman is still living in a Premier Inn, six months after a car crashed into her home. Jill Robson has been staying at the hotel at Medway Valley Park since the vehicle damaged the front of her property on Cuxton Road last October. And, in sport Maidstone United face Tonbridge Angels in the final of the Kent Senior Cup tonight. The game is taking place at Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's been confirmed a former cinema in Canterbury will need to be completely demolished following a devastating fire. The blaze broke out at the Odeon in St George's Place on Valentine's Day. Hear from Louise Jones-Roberts who is the owner of Tokyo Tea Rooms which is based next door and has been closed since the fire started. Also in today's podcast, a Kent woman who was misdiagnosed with a birth injury, has been praised in parliament for the work she's done to train midwives. Joanne Page suffered a fourth degree tear while having her baby at the William Harvey Hospital. A petition to save a First World War tank in Ashford Town Centre from being relocated has already reached more than 1,400 signatures. The armoured vehicle was gifted to the town in 1919 and has sat in St George's Square ever since. A Herne Bay man has completed a challenge to run from his local pub to the Eiffel Tower. Fin Dale managed to complete the 212 miles to Paris in just two weeks. And in sport, former Maidstone United manager John Still has taken on a new role. The 75-year-old has been appointed head of football at National League South club Chelmsford City. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Dover family have told the KentOnline Podcast they want to return to their old life, after a devastating fire forced them out of their home. It's exactly a year since a blaze broke out in Conqueror House on Crabble Hill. 37 households were forced to move into temporary accommodation and 21 are still there as repair work continues. Also in today's episode, a teenager from Swanscombe who needs a mobility scooter to get around has revealed how a collision left him scared to go out. Josh Howell suffered extensive bruising when it happened and has spoken out as new stats reveal the number of crashes in the south east involving mobility scooters. A Kent environmentalist says a 300-metre scar has been cut through a vital reed bed following a fire. Crews were called to Pegwell Bay Nature Reserve, off Sandwich Road, just after eight last night. For the first time in two months, steam trains are now able to run from Tunbridge Wells through to Groombridge. The Spa Valley Railway reopened over the weekend after a major project to install a new bridge on the route. Football, and it was a disappointing result for Gillingham at the weekend. They lost 4-1 to Grimsby Town at Priestfield. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Herne Bay woman has spoken of the moment she was left covered in black paint just minutes before walking down the aisle to get married. Gemma Monk's £1,300 dress was ruined as she prepared to tie the knot at Oakwood House in Maidstone. She'd been targeted by her 49-year-old sister-in-law who'd turned up unannounced to the ceremony and has now been sentenced after appearing in court. Also in today's podcast, students are being encouraged to come forward for a second dose of vaccine, following a deadly outbreak of Meningitis in Kent. Two young people died and 34 were hospitalised after cases spread last month. A day of action's being held in Kent this weekend by campaigners fighting plans for three new solar farms. Hands Off Our Marsh say it would be devastating to see panels installed on hundreds of acres of prime farmland across Romney Marsh. A huge parade will be making its way through Gravesend this weekend as part of Vaisakhi celebrations. The festival marks the solar new year and the founding of the initiated Sikh community in 1699. Thousands of people are expected to take part and it'll leave the Gurdwara just after 11am on Saturday. And in sport, Gillingham's assistant manager is going to be stepping out of the dugout as he takes on a new role at the club. Richard Dobson has been appointed the club's technical director. He'll be in charge of the recruitment department, sports science and medical along with the GFC Academy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tributes have been paid to a 'beautiful and loving mum' from Maidstone who died from natural causes after travelling to Turkey for a cosmetic surgery procedure. The hearing at Oakwood House was told Cally Oswell went into cardiac arrest while having breast augmentation in Istanbul. The 37-year-old from Livingston Walk in Park Wood suffered a blood clot while having the surgery. Also in today's episode, the KentOnline Podcast has been told a huge blaze which caused catastrophic damage to a recycling centre in Ashford was caused by a lithium-ion battery. Crews in ten engines, a height vehicle and two water carriers were called to Green Box Recycling Centre in Brunswick Road last Tuesday. Hear from the company's managing director. The lead singer of tribute band says he's 'devastated' after thousands of pounds worth of their equipment was stolen. It was in a van that was taken from outside a venue Supersonic Queen were performing at during the Easter Weekend. We've been speaking to Freddie Mercury impersonator Phil Copping from Tonbridge who is the lead singer. And, cows have been reintroduced at a country park in Kent as part of a conservation grazing project. The cattle arrived at Jeskyns Community Woodland, near Cobham, earlier this month and it's hoped they will also help support the local skylark population, and boost visitor numbers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Police investigating the death of a 19-year-old in Whitstable have charged two men with murder. Officers had been called to reports of an assault in Belmont Road in the early hours of Good Friday, Ashton Harrington had suffered stab wounds and died at the scene. As part of the investigation, officers arrested two people at a property in Sittingbourne on Monday afternoon. Also in today's podcast, after the boss of South East Water revealed he won't be accepting his bonus this year, the KentOnline Podcast has been told it's the least he can do. David Hinton issued a statement after being quizzed by MPs for the second time about major outages in December and January. Hear from Tunbridge Wells rep Mike Martin whose constituents were affected by water issues before Christmas. A Medway MP has joined a campaign for tighter alcohol restrictions on delivery apps following the death of a local man. Glenn Perkins died after being admitted to hospital with liver disease after spending up to £60 a day on drink which he ordered straight to his front door. Roads bosses in Kent are being urged to put in the 'strongest possible bid' for money to fix a road in north Kent that's been closed since a landslip. Traffic hasn't been able to use Galley Hill Road in Swanscombe since a large chunk fell away in April 2023. In sport, it was a disappointing result for Gillingham on the road last night. Ronan Hale scored early on for the Gills at Cheltenham Town, but two second half goals from the hosts saw the match end 2 - 1. Hear from the goal-scorer and manager Gareth Ainsworth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The boss of South East Water has been back at parliament to be questioned by MPs following recent outages in Tunbridge Wells. Dave Hinton has been accused of giving incomplete and inaccurate evidence at a previous hearing. It comes as the company say they will look at increasing the amount of compensation on offer for some of the businesses impacted. We've got reaction from Tunbridge Wells MP Mike Martin. Also in today's podcast, council bosses in Kent have confirmed they have sold off a sculpture by a world famous artist, to raise income. 'Two Stones' by Antony Gormley - who's the man behind the Angel of the North - had been on display outside the Kent History and Library Centre in Maidstone for more than a decade. Hear from Maidstone Council leader Stuart Jeffery who isn't happy the artwork has gone. A man who subjected his Folkestone partner to three months of angry, aggressive and intimidating behaviour has avoided going to prison. A court heard how the 28 year-old bombarded his victim with calls and messages, tracked her movements and cut her off from her loved ones. Former MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace has revealed he plans on selling his Kent home, because he can't live the life he used to. The 61-year-old, who lives in Biddenden, was sacked by the BBC last July following an investigation into misconduct allegations. And in sport, Gillingham will be looking to go four games unbeaten in league two tonight as they travel to take on Cheltenham Town. It follows Saturday's nil-nil draw against promotion-chasing Salford City. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A mother has spoken of her horror after a freak fall at school left her son with a fractured skull and bleed on the brain. The five year-old spent a week in two different hospitals following the accident before half-term – his mum has now pulled him out of the school because she’s so unhappy with how staff dealt with the incident. Also in today’s podcast, a drunk bus passenger who verbally abused a police officer with highly offensive racial slurs has been jailed. Maidstone Crown Court heard a bus driver was forced to pull over and call for help to deal with the disruptive, threatening and aggressive 47-year-old on board his vehicle. A young woman from Kent is campaigning for more women and girls to know the symptoms of Endometriosis. The 22-year-old says she was dismissed by multiple doctors after suffering severe period pain and exhaustion as a teenager. We’ve spoken to a Kent tradeswoman about what it’s like to set up a female-only business in a male-dominated industry.  The boss of Dartford’s The Shutter Tree says there are a lot of reasons why people prefer a woman to do the job.  And in football, Gillingham’s goalless draw at Salford City gave manager Gareth Ainsworth another boost as he plans ahead for next season. The point for the Gills came after a thrilling finish which saw Glenn Morris make a double save to deny Salford a late winner – you can hear his reaction to the game.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former partners of a carer from Sittingbourne whose lies sent an innocent man to prison, have spoken of their own ordeals after she was jailed. Lauren Kinrade made false allegations against a 71-year-old cancer patient who she was meant to be looking after. Her victim was arrested and spent three months behind bars as a result of her claims. Last month 35-year-old Kinrade from Pembury Court admitted perverting the course of justice and was sentenced to four years. Also in today's podcast, help is being offered to hundreds of parents who are scrambling to find somewhere for their children to go after the Easter break following the closure of a school in Ramsgate. St Lawrence College has been struggling financially and recently abandoned plans to merge with another private school, Dover College. Two burglars from East London have been jailed following a high-speed police chase on the Thanet Way. Officers were pursuing a Porsche which had been stolen from a property in Birchington in January. The car crashed into a Tesla and the men tried to run away through woodland. A meeting's been held to discuss plans to repair and reopen a road in north Kent - three years after a landslip. Residents in Swanscombe say they're fed up with traffic diverting and causing disruption following the closure of Galley Hill Road. And, Mimi Webb's told us she's already working on a third album. The Canterbury-born singer is back in the studio after only just releasing the deluxe edition of Confessions: An Unexpected Turn of Events. It includes five new tracks including Ends in Y which sees her riding a horse in the video. In sport, Gillingham have extended the contract of fan favourite Bradley Dack. The 32-year-old will be staying until the end of next season. Hear from him and manager Gareth Ainsworth ahead of their trip to promotion chasing Salford City this weekend. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of person

The mum of a young man who was stabbed to death in Whitstable has told us she won't rest until she gets justice for her son. Ashton Harrington was found in Belmont Road in the town in the early hours of Good Friday. The 19-year-old's mum Camille has been speaking to our reporter Gerry Warren who joins us on the podcast. Also in today's episode, a drug dealer from Tunbridge Wells has been jailed after police found him trying to destroy a mobile phone by flushing it down the toilet. Police attended 28-year-old Sabinson Selimaj's property in Scotts Way last October as part on ongoing enquiries into cocaine supply in the area. Kent Police has been praised by national inspectors for the work they do in schools to tackle knife crime. A report's been released showing improvements in the overall efficiency of the force. It's also highlighted a scheme to identify and educate those at risk of carrying blades. A Kent retail worker says it's frustrating to see the level of abuse towards staff remains high. Recent figures from the Retail Trade Union show 78% of surveyed workers in the south east were verbally abused last year. More than half were threatened and twelve-percent were actually assaulted.  And in sport, Chatham Town have won the Isthmian League Women's Cup final. Jess King and Amelia Woodgate both scored hat tricks as they beat Bowers and Pitsea 7-1 in Essex last night. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A family with a newborn baby have been left homeless after a blaze broke out on a housing estate near Dartford.  Seven fire engines and a height vehicle were called to the scene in Greenhithe yesterday – it’s as fires have also broken out in Ashford and Medway – we’ll bring you all the details.  Also in today’s podcast, you can hear an eyewitness account of the death of a skydiver at a Kent airfield.  A man in his 50s in confirmed to have died at Headcorn Aerodrome on Easter Monday – we’ve spoken to another man who was due to skydive on the same morning.  A row's broken out between two politicians in Medway about the School Streets scheme. Since 2024 vehicles have been banned from driving down certain roads at drop off and pick up time – Cabinet member Alex Paterson has faced criticism from Conservative Councillor Andrew Lawrence.  Neighbours say they’re heartbroken after a council demanded they get rid of a cherished community garden years in the making. We’ve spoken to Vikki Montague who has spent hundreds of hours cultivating flowers, vegetables and fruit trees at Mannock House in Canterbury. And in football, Gillingham's Sam Gale has been nominated for the league two Young Player of the Season award. He's featured in 40 games across all competitions and scored one goal - in their 1-nil win over Crewe Alexandra in August. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An investigation is underway after a skydiver died at at an airfield in Kent. Emergency crews were called to Headcorn Aerodrome yesterday morning after eyewitnesses reported seeing 'an object' falling from the sky. Operators, Go Skydive, say a British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will investigate the accident. Also in today's podcast, police have released pictures of two men they want to speak to following a fatal stabbing in Whitstable. 19-year-old Ashton Harrington was found in Belmont Road in the early hours of Good Friday. There's a warning health services in Kent could be impacted as strike action gets underway this morning. Resident doctors, who used to be known as junior doctors, are walking out until next Monday. It's over a long-running dispute with government about pay. A young woman from Kent has been telling us about her battle to get treatment for a common condition, after nearly seven years of symptoms. Freya Baker has hyperhidrosis - which causes excessive sweating. The 25-year-old, from Teynham near Sittingbourne, says it makes it difficult to work or carry out day to day tasks. And in sport, Gillingham's six-game winless run has come to an end. They beat Accrington Stanley 2 - 0 in front of the home crowd at Priestfield yesterday. Defender Andy Smith scored his first goal for the club. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A domestic abuser who threatened to kill the mother of three of his children and burn her family’s house down has been jailed. But the father of Martin Creed’s victim says “justice has not been served”, after he admitted abusing his partner of eight years in a caravan on Sheppey.  Also in today’s podcast, a man has appeared in court after being accused of murdering his mother at their home near Dover.  The 64-year-old victim was attacked at a home in Khartoum Square on Sunday.  A mum who moved to a garden city for a “blissful green escape” says it’s become a “living hell” thanks to ongoing construction. Within weeks of moving in to the property at Ebbsfleet Garden City last August with her son she’d realised she’d moved into a working building site.  A team of veterans have arrived in Kent as they attempt to sail around the UK. They're using two wooden tall ships which are traditionally rigged and will be docked at Ramsgate for the next few days. And in cricket, Adam Hollioake insists he’s a better coach for his first season in charge of Kent.  He’s been speaking as they look to get their new County Championship campaign underway against Durham this Easter long weekend.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A developer involved in one of Kent’s biggest housing projects has gone into administration - casting doubt over key infrastructure. Administrators have been appointed just months after the company failed to avoid more than £50 million in agreed contributions. Also in today’s podcast, a mum-of-one murdered by her estranged husband had told police just 16 days before she was killed that she feared it was “very likely” he would seriously harm her.  A report has revealed officers deemed Ramona Stoia was only at “medium” risk following his arrest for physical and sexual offences against her. A dreaded contraflow is set to be deployed on the M20 for the Easter holiday travel rush in anticipation of high passenger numbers heading through Kent to Europe. The motorway will be closed tonight so the Operation Brock system can be installed – we’ve spoken to local roads bosses.  We're being encouraged to count the number of bug splatters on our number plates as part of an annual survey.  It's called Bugs Matter - and you can log the data through an app to help track insect numbers.  And in sport, you can hear from members of the victorious rugby team from Maidstone Grammar School who are heading to meet the town's mayor later. It's after they secured a dramatic 22-21 win at Twickenham to lift the Schools Under-18 Vase. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The family of an alcoholic who spent thousands of pounds on delivery apps to order alcohol have called for more safety measures. The Gillingham man's family say he was spending up to £60 a day on Uber Eats and it accelerated his death – they’re calling for more to be done to restrict the sale of alcohol. Also on today’s podcast, detectives have charged a man with murder following the death of a woman in Dover. The 64 year-old was found dead after police were called to a home in Khartoum Square in Whitfield on Sunday afternoon – the suspect will be in court today.  It has been a year since the government approved plans for the most ambitious road project in a generation, the Lower Thames Crossing.  Bosses behind the scheme have now given an update on how it is progressing with hundreds of people working across the scheme. Residents of a block of flats in Maidstone say action should have been taken sooner to fix a leak which has left them without water since Friday. The problem was first identified at Sandling Park four months ago, but now the pipe has burst forcing supplies to be turned off. And, a college in Sheerness has officially unveiled its new campus extension.  It’s hoped the EKC Sheppey college facility will boost opportunities for young people on the island.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The bosses of a popular restaurant in Aylesford have told the KentOnline Podcast they're 'deeply heartbroken' following a fire over the weekend. Crews were called to The Hengist in the High Street just after midnight on Sunday. At its height, eight engines and a height vehicle were at the scene, with pictures showing smoke billowing into the night sky. The boss of a nightclub at the centre of a meningitis outbreak in Canterbury has exclusively revealed to the podcast that they will reopen later this week. Club Chemistry voluntarily closed it's doors earlier this month after almost 90% of cases could be traced back to the venue. A Herne Bay man is getting ready to run 200 miles to Paris as part of a mental health campaign. 22-year-old Fin Dale will be setting off from his local pub tomorrow, and it'll take two weeks for him to get to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Football, and it was another defeat for Gillingham at the weekend - their fifth in a row. They were beaten 2-0 at Crawley Town with both goals coming in the dying moments of the match. Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth and defender Andy Smith. It was a much better result for Punjab United who drew the first leg of their FA Vase semi-final. The Gravesend-based side travelled to Cockfosters on Saturday and it finished 1-1. The second leg takes place at their home ground on April 4. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you're looking to get on the housing ladder, figures today have revealed the most and least affordable parts of Kent. Property prices in Dover are just seven times residents' earnings, but in Sevenoaks it's much higher at more than 10 times. Reporter Sam Lennon has been in Dover and speaking to people who live and work in the town. Crews have been tackling a blaze at a car dealership in Canterbury which caused heavy smoke and travel disruption. Seven fire engines were sent to the Mercedes-Benz showroom on Sturry Road at around half five this morning. Plans to build 2,500 homes near Sittingbourne have been delayed. A decision on the development off Sheppey Way in Bobbing was due to be made last night, but it's been deferred by Swale Council. Hear from local democracy reporter Dan Esson. A Medway mum's been forced to give up work to look after her son after he was given a place at a mainstream school that can't support his needs. Five year-old Hudson Black has autism and sensory processing disorders but was given a place at Parkwood Primary in Rainham which says it isn't suitable. We've been speaking to Hudson's mum Charlotte. A Kent campaign group has welcomed a landmark ruling in the US, against the owners of Youtube and Instagram. Google and Meta have been found liable for young woman's addiction to social media. We've got reaction from Whitstable Unplugged. And in sport,  it's a trip to Crawley Town for Gillingham in league two this weekend. The Gills will be hoping to end a run of four defeats. Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth and defender Sam Gale. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Two men have been jailed for killing a four-year-old family member in a crash near Gravesend. Peter Maughan died after the 4x4 he was travelling in with his parents and youngster sister was clipped at speed by a vehicle pursuing them on New Barn Road in Southfleet last June. Hear from Peter's mother Hayley Maughan and Senior prosecutor Natalie Smith who spoke outside court. Also in today's podcast, a driver who struck a teacher in a hit and run in Medway has been found guilty of causing death by careless driving. Ben Allen was knocked down as he walked along Station Road in Cliffe following a night out in December 2021. If you live in three parts of Medway, you're being urged to have a say on how £60million should be spent. We told you last week how Twydall, Luton and Rede Common are getting an equal share of Pride in Place funding from government. Gillingham and Rainham MP Naushabah Khan has been speaking to the local democracy reporting service. The KentOnline Podcast has been told the UK's largest solar farm on land in Kent will be up and running within months. Cleve Hill Solar Park covers 900 acres in Graveney between Faversham and Whitstable after being approved by the government six years ago. And, Talia Mar has been on our sister radio station, kmfm, talking about how being an independent artist has changed her career. The 'Stay the Night' singer left her record label in 2024. Her new single 'Suit and Tie' is her third independent release.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's an historic day in Kent as the enthronement of the first female Archbishop of Canterbury takes place. Today's ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral is the symbolic start of Dame Sarah Mullally's leadership of the Church of England. More than 2,000 people including the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Prime Minister will be at the ceremony. Three students from the John Wallis Church of England Academy in Ashford will also be taking part hear from MacAnthony Ihejirika and the school's chaplain Ian Rich. Also in today's podcast, you're now able to travel around Canterbury on e-bikes. Rental firm Beryl is bringing the vehicles to the city and already runs similar schemes in Manchester, Plymouth and Bradford. We're joined on the episode by reporter Brad Harper who went along to the launch. Residents of a village near Maidstone have criticised plans to build 26 homes on an agricultural field near their homes. Developers have submitted an application for land off Gallants Lane in East Farleigh. Meantime, there are fears a new development in Dover will result in the loss of almost all of the parking spaces around a nearby church. 11 homes are set to be built along Northbourne Road in Great Mongeham, with double yellow line directly outside. And in sport, Kent's head coach Adam Hollioake says there's no reason some of his young players couldn't represent England at senior level one day. Several of them were given their first-team debuts last summer and are said to be showing promise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An investigation's underway following a fire at a café in Strood. Emergency crews were called to the High Street at about 4am and at its height seven fire engines were at the scene along with a height vehicle. Also in today's podcast, drivers have been stuck in gridlocked traffic because of a closure of the Medway Tunnel. There was a power failure overnight which led to long delays through Strood, Gillingham and Chatham. We have the latest on the situation from councillor Alex Paterson. Two of Kent's MPs are calling for a crackdown on catapults being used to hurt animals. Dartford's Jim Dickson has raised the issue in the commons, meantime, Faversham and Mid Kent's Helen Whately has been to visit an animal rescue centre where volunteers deal with wildlife that's been injured. Hear from Mark Henderson from the Columbines Wildlife Care in Teynham near Sittingbourne. Also on the podcast, we've been hearing from the mother of a young girl from Kent who lives with a rare condition that's left her locked in her own body. 11-year-old Poppy has Rett Syndrome, a degenerative disease that's rarely seen in boys but affects one in every ten-thousand girls. And in sport, Sam Northeast says he wants to help Kent secure a move back to the top flight this season. The batsman has rejoined the county after being involved in Glamorgan's promotion from league two last summer. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There have been tributes to a “selfless” and “brave”  Kent Police officer who has died after being involved in a crash while responding to an emergency call. 27-year-old PC Bradley Corke died yesterday after being critically injured in the line of duty after a serious crash in Farningham last week.  Also in today’s podcast, latest figures show there have been no new meningitis cases linked to the outbreak in Kent. It means 20 cases have been confirmed, with nine still under investigation – it’s as business bosses are hoping this week’s enthronement of the new Archbishop of Canterbury will bring tourists back to the city.  Tom Burke is best known for playing a troubled private detective haunted by his past in hit crime series Strike. But the 44-year-old is now trying to solve a “complex issue” off screen: helping Ashford town centre overcome an “identity crisis”. We've been hearing from a Kent mental health nurse, who works with the team that offered her support during pregnancy. After suffered severe bipolar and psychotic episodes while expecting her fourth child Tynisa Nixon received help from the Kent and Medway Mental Heath NHS Trust perinatal support team.  And in football, you can hear from the Gillingham manager after his side threw away an advantage on Saturday. The Gills looked in charge at the break, but two minutes into the second half Bristol took the lead and went on to secure the 2 – 1 win.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.