Malling.org.uk


Malling residents urged to stay safe this summer


During the summer months it’s natural to want to get outside with friends and family and enjoy the Malling sunshine.


But throughout the season Kent Fire and Rescue Service is called to more and more rescues sparked by the hot weather, particularly to children in difficulty.


From the red hot barbecue in the garden to their first camping trip, a combination of inexperience and curiosity can often put them at risk.


Children and teenagers are often fascinated by fire and this becomes a particular danger during the dry summer months. Grass fires are frequent and often the result of experimenting with fire.


The outcomes can be terrible for the person who starts the fire. Lifelong scarring is a common outcome, and sometimes the results can be fatal. It’s also a criminal act which puts firefighters and the public at huge risk.


Water:


• Be aware of your children’s limitations – eg, how confident are they in the water?


• Don't jump or dive in, as the water can be far deeper or shallower than it looks - with unseen hazards.


• Never swim near weirs or locks as there are usually dangerous currents.


• Even inland waters can be very cold, no matter how warm the weather. Be aware that this can quickly cause cramp and breathing difficulties.


For more information on general safety, visit the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents' website. The Malling School Awards Evening


On Wednesday, 20th July, students from years 7 to 10, who had shown outstanding effort or achievement throughout the past year, were rewarded for their hard work at the school’s annual awards evening. Before a packed audience including parents and carers, family, friends, governors and staff from the school, students received their awards from the principal Carl Roberts and his two vice-principals, Paul Williams and Dave Miller.


For the first time this year, there was a new trophy on the table. This was a beautiful silver salver, purchased by governors to mark the retirement in July of the Malling Holmesdale Federation’s executive principal Ian Hobson. The Ian Hobson Award will be presented annually from now on to the most improved student. Mr Hobson has seen many young people turn their lives around and succeed against the odds in the time he has been associated with the school, in East Malling, and particularly wanted to recognise this success with an award in his name.


The guest speaker for the evening was Steve Cunningham, the world’s fastest blind man, frequently described as the most inspiring man on the planet. Steve showed two video clips and had his audience aghast at his exploits and achievements, all since losing his sight. Afterwards, students asked him questions and queued to meet his faithful guide dog, Lynton.


Guest of honour on this occasion was the new Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Cllr Brian Luker, accompanied by his wife, Joy. Cllr Luker is a former pupil of the old Clare Park School. The Malling School was rebuilt under a PFI scheme on the old Clare Park site three years ago and enjoys state of the art accommodation and facilities with space for 1000 pupils. Cllr Luker enjoyed a personal tour of the school with principal, Carl Roberts, at the end of June and pronounced himself mightily impressed with the new school.


Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Safety Manager Stuart Skilton said: “Water also poses a danger. It’s natural to want to cool down in the heat, but young people are often unaware of the dangers. Whether it’s the unknown depths of Leybourne Lakes, a stream or the hidden currents at the seaside, things can quickly go wrong.”


Keep your family safer this summer by following our golden rules:


• Adults set a good example – behave safely and responsibly!


• Never use accelerants such as petrol on barbecues • Never leave a barbeque unattended • Never cook or smoke inside tents • Always make sure cigarettes are properly extinguished


• Never leave lighters or matches around – they can be a temptation to children.


Malling Action Partnership is a community organisation open to anyone to join. It represents the ten parishes surrounding West Malling, and with the aid of government, SEEDA and other grants, it supports the businesses and community life of these parishes through a series of projects. One major project is to help the Farmers' Market grow and provide more family activities. Contact Trudy Dean on 01732 843119 or trudy.dean@kent.gov.uk


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