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News Ancientwall wrecked by yobs


VANDALS have destroyed this historic wall in the Loose Valley – just weeks after the land was taken over by the community. Volunteers from the Valley Con-


servation Society had been repair- ing the ragstone wall, which dates back to the 1800s – after moneywas raised, with the help of community groups including Tovil Parish Council, to secure the land from de- velopment. Thewall, which runs from Lower Crisbrook Pond to Hayle Park Na- ture Reserve, serves as the bound-


repairs to the wall, only to find thugs have managed to wreck this part of the wall completely. “If that wasn't enough, they car-


ary to the parcel of land in the Loose Valley Conservation Area known as Little Switzerland. Dennis Usmar, from the VCS,


said: “Our work party has spent weeks carrying out much-needed


Lunch to remember friend


TEN members of the Maidstone Prostate Cancer Support Group enjoyed lunch at Fredericks Bistro, paid for by their late friend PeterWard who died in December after a long and brave fight. Peter left £500 in his


will for his friends at the group who had given him so much support and comfort, so that they could have ameal on him. Before the meal the


group held a minute's si- lence while they reflected on his life. The group members wish to thank all the staff and doctors at Maid- stone Hospital for the unstinting support they gave Peter.


ried on the vandalism to other parts of the wall further along. We are very disappointed to report this wilful vandalism on a scale that the VCS has never encountered be- fore.”


Three teenage girls and a boy


were reported to be throwing stones near the collapsed wall and were last seen walking along the footpath towards Forest Hill.


OFSTED inspectors who went to Bower Grove School in Fant Lane found that itwas verywell led. The headteacher and senior lead-


ers provided a clear vision for im- proving teaching and learning. Pupils’ progress was accelerating


as a result of good teaching. It was faster in English than mathematics, due to the focus on literacy skills. Excellentwall displays reinforced teaching, celebrated achievement and illustrated the range of enrich- ment and sporting activities, helping to develop pupils’ self confidence and team spirit. Behaviour was found to be good


Mr Usmar said: “We would ask


the public to be vigilant when walking or enjoying the Loose Val- ley Conservation Area and other areas of Maidstone and report any sightings of wilful damage to either the police or the VCS directly. “We need to make the public


aware of the value of our industrial, architectural heritage and ask that they respect and care for our local environment. We will be relaying this message to the many young- sters who already enjoy working with us from local schools.”


Pupils make good progress


and well-managed, and the pupils felt safe andwell cared for, thanks to the staff’s guidance and support. Children made a good start in the


Early Years Foundation stage, and attendance had improved, due to the school’s relationship with families. Governors knew the school well


and had an accurate view of the school’s strengths and areas for im- provement. The school was rated good, but


could be improved to outstanding with better lesson planning. It was also suggested that the presentation of information on pupils’ progress could be more clear.


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Maidstone Town July 2014 27


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