News
Stones’ delight as 3G ban lied
MAIDSTONE United FC are cele- brating after it was announced that 3Gpitches will be permitted in the Football Conference. The Stones’ home ground, the Gallagher Stadium in James What- man Way, was completed in 2012 with a third-generation synthetic surface, which would have ex- cluded the club from joining the Conference South in the event of promotion from the Ryman Isth- mian League Premier Division. However, the ban has now been
lifted after strong campaigning from Stones chairman Oliver Ash. The Conference said in a state-
ment: “At the pre-season meeting of clubs in membership of the Va- narama Conference for season 2014/15 an update was issued on the use of ATPs [Artificial Turf Pitches] in the competition. “Following recent dialogue with
the Football Association and Foot- ball League, the Football Confer- ence’s board intends to allow competition matches to be played on ATPs in all three divisions from the start of the 2015/16 season.
Business Focus “Such approval will only be given
where surfaces meet the standards of installation and criteria for use, which are to be agreed by the re- spective authorities. “Further statements will be made
as and when the standards and cri- teria are agreed with all our football partners.” Helen Grant, MP for Maidstone
and the Weald and Minister for Sport, said: “Having raised the issue with the football authorities several times over the last few months, it’s fantastic that the Con- ference is taking this sensible step. “Iwant to pay tribute to everyone
at Maidstone United who worked so hard to campaign for 3G. Let’s hope this ignites the Stones’ bid for promotion next season.” The decision is an about-turn
from the Football Conference board, which voted in February to reject a proposal to overturn the 3G ban.However, a month later the FA Cup board announced it would allow the use of 3G pitches in the flagship competition as well as the FAYouth Cup.
downsmail.co.uk
Serina signs up as first dementia buddy
MAIDSTONE and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust has signed up its first dementia buddy. Serina Gurung (24), of Maidstone, will be volunteering about
three times a week on John Day ward at Maidstone Hospital. She will help patients
with dementia, making sure they receive plenty of social interaction, escort them to appointments within the hospital, partici- pate in activities to main- tain patients’ cognitive capabilities, help with food and drink, and support car- ers and family. Serina said: “I am de- lighted to be involved in the scheme. After completing my bio- medical sciences degree I wanted the chance to combine my medical knowledge with getting more involved in my local hospi- tal and doing something that was personally rewarding.” John Day ward, along with ward 31 at TunbridgeWells Hospital
Serina Gurung (left) with Natalie Emerick
is piloting the scheme for 12 months in partnership with the trust and charity Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Services. Before being allowed on the wards, buddies receive training in dementia, falls and cultural awareness, nutrition and hydration. Natalie Emerick, dementia buddy co-ordinator for the trust, said:
“A dementia buddy is can make all the difference to a patient with memory problems, ensuring they receive the best possible care.” Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer dementia buddy can call Natalie on 07961 501291 or email
natalie.emerick@alz-dem.org.
downsmail.co.uk PINIONS PET FOODS Your one stop shop
- for all your pet requirements
Pinions is a large independent pet food shop along the main A20 road in Ditton. It has been owned and run by the Wrights since 1973, concentrating on selling pet foods and accessories since the early 80’s when the name was changed to Pinions Pet Foods as we know it now. In recent months we have had a brand new storeroom built which now gives us 1700 square feet of improved storage space, which is vital in helping us move the many tonnes of feed dispensed every week.
Whilst we retain the feel of an old style pet shop with many of our foods still being weighed out
from the open sacks, we are also moving into the 21st century with our website. Whether it is by the Kilogram or by the bulk sack we cater for all. Through the many years Pinions have been open we have taken pride in not only the quality of the service we offer, but the huge selection of foods and accessories we always keep in stock for all your domestic pets needs, from the smallest of hamsters to the largest of dogs we have something for all. Our staff are NVQ and City and Guild qualified so we are able to give you the best impartial advice on nutrition, housing and the general well being of your pets.
We are open 7 days a week Monday – Saturday 9.00am until 5.30pm & Sunday 10.00am until 4.30pm. There is plenty of free parking right outside.
431 London Road, Ditton, Aylesford, Kent
www.pinionspetfoods.co.uk 01622 718580
14 Malling August 2014
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48