downsmail.co.uk


Bike gang victim backs police education plan


A MOTHER of two who fell vic- tim to a gang of bikers has wel- comed a new initiative by police to educate children on the dan- gers of “ride-out” events. Carla Betts (49) was driving her


13-year-old daughter Katya to a bowling party in Ditton when her car was swarmed by more than 30 bike gang members. One child grabbed her wing


mirror and punched her window numerous times before swerving in front of her. Community safety officers say


they have now visited 16 schools in the Malling area to educate young people about the perils of ignoring road safety advice, to both themselves and other road users. Mrs Betts said: “I think any-


thing, however small, to try and educate all children on the dan- gers of this activity has to be a good thing.


“Any movement any local council, police force or school can make is a step in the right direc- tion. I would definitely be willing to support such a project and I know others would as well.” A “ride-out” sees youngsters causing havoc on the roads by


riding recklessly in large groups, often into direct traffic. A Kent Police spokesman said:


“Over the past year we have been made aware of concerns over a number of ride-outs across the county. “Those who take part often film


their actions to share on various social media platforms.” “Through the use of video and


role play, we are showing chil- dren the effects of a car colliding with a cyclist, with advice also given on issues including safe stopping distances and the im- portance of bicycle maintenance.” Sergeant Sarah Alvey, of the Tonbridge and Malling Commu- nity Safety Unit said: “We are working hard to get the message through that what may seem like a bit of harmless fun, can actually be extremely dangerous, resulting in serious injury, or even tragic consequences.”


News Ferry disaster


focus of talk THE Aylesford Active Retirement Association will be hosting a talk about the Zeebrugge disaster. The tragedy saw 193 people


drown when the Herald of Free Enterprise ferry capsized just off Belgium. The group’s next meeting will


take place in the Aylesford Com- munity Centre at 2pm on Thurs- day, March 26. If you have some spare time or


are just looking to meet new peo- ple, call Wayne for more informa- tion on 01622 710734.


Council role


FANCY doing more for your com- munity at the sharp end? Kings Hill is looking for three new parish councillors. Parish clerk Julie Miller said:


“We have a very busy parish, which makes the role as councillor challenging, yet really interesting.” If you are interested in taking on


the role, call Julie for an informal chat on 01732 870382 or contact her by email at clerk@kingshill- parish.gov.uk.


STATION CABS


Telephone Snodland (01634) 240470 (01634)244163 (01634)244007


Snodland Station, High Street, Snodland ME6 5AN


8 SEATER CABS AIRPORTS • WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE Malling March 2020 11


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