Rottweiler Obie escaped after a delivery driver left a gate open in June last year.

Also in today's podcast, a rehab charity in Kent says the number of young people seeking help for ketamine addiction has more than doubled in the past year.

The drug is thought to be growing in popularity, and can cause serious complications including bladder damage and long-term mental health issues. Hear from Jack who started using it when he was 16 and is now getting support from Kenward Trust in Yalding.

With temperatures set to top 30 degrees in Kent again today, there's a warning not to cool off in rivers and lakes.

An amber heat health alert's come into force for 24 hours until 9am tomorrow.

People living in a village near Dover say they're virtually stranded without any buses running over the summer.

After Shepherdswell lost its all-day services last November, the only one is for school children and doesn't run during the holidays.

Residents say it's left them struggling to get to appointments, collect shopping and visit relatives.

A Kent woman who set up a community support centre and foodbank in Herne Bay is getting an honorary doctorate from the University of Kent.

Maya Amangeldiyeva also has a free shop which started in 2022.

And, Gillingham have officially signed Nick Freeman after a successful trial at the club.

He joined the Gills at the start of pre-season after previously playing for manager Gareth Ainsworth at Wycombe Wanderers.

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Stats show 130 of them were in July alone - and 30 were tackled over the past weekend.

Smokers are being told not to throw cigarettes out of car windows and there's guidance around disposable barbecues too.

It comes as major wildfires continue to burn in parts of Europe.

We've been speaking to a travel agent from Tunbridge Wells who's got advice for anyone due to travel to France and Spain this summer.

Also in today's podcast, a woman's recovering from emergency surgery after suffering a life-threatening brain haemorrhage while shopping in Medway.

Margaret Matharu from Halling started to experience a pain in the back of her head while she was at a checkout in Morrisons in Strood last month and has described what happened.

The landlords of a Kent pub say they're losing hundreds of pounds a day because of road closures in their village.

Six weeks worth of gas main repairs are taking place in Golden Green near Tonbridge.

A petition's been set up calling for cheaper school travel for tens of thousands of pupils in Kent.

It's because over the past four years, the Kent Travel Saver pass for children to use a bus has increased from £450 to £615.

Families say it's become unaffordable during the cost of living crisis.

And, a well-known Kent hairdresser is retiring after almost six decades in business.

George Antoniou, who's originally from Cyprus, opened his first salon in Canterbury in 1968 - and went on to build an empire with 11 more sites across the county.

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Emergency crews were called to Woodlands Road after the little boy landed on the pavement outside a Best-One convenience store just after 6 last night. Hear from our reporter Joe Crossley who has been at the scene.

Also in today's podcast, the owner of a convenience store in Rochester says he's seen a spike in shoplifting during the hot weather.

CCTV footage shows children stealing ice cream and drinks from the Premier store on Delce Road four times in the space of a week.

Figures have revealed the number of Kent children entitled to special needs support who are still waiting for a school place.

417 pupils with education, health and care plans are on the list - and around three-quarters of those have been waiting more than 90 days.

Many parents say the process of finding a suitable place has left them at "breaking point". We've been speaking to two of them.

If you're planning a day trip to London during the summer holidays, the advice is to check the trains as two of the capital's stations are closed.

£20 million worth of engineering work is taking place at Charing Cross and Waterloo East.

A Canterbury couple who started fostering while in their 20s have been sharing their experience to try and encourage more young people to consider it.

India Rusbridge and Ryan Hallett are both former teachers and welcomed their foster son two years ago.

And in football, it was a defeat for Gillingham in their latest pre-season fixture.

They lost 2-1 in a behind-closed-doors match against Brentford B, hear reaction from manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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The site at Westenhanger near Hythe has been earmarked by the government as a holding area for up to a thousand tourist vehicles.

It's amid fears new checks brought in as part of the European Union's Entry/Exit System could cause disruption this summer - and this weekend could be the busiest of the summer getaway. Hear from our reporter Alex Keir and the Lib Dems who're calling for EES to be suspended.

Also in today's podcast, the family of a man who died following a battle with his mental health say he will 'stay in our hearts forever'.

Flowers and balloons have been left on The Leas in Folkestone in memory of 30 year-old Wayne Edwards from Seabrook.

Several wildfires have broken out in Kent following weeks of dry weather.

It's as another yellow heat health alert comes into force today as temperatures rise again.

The Conservatives have been ousted by Reform UK in a council by-election in Medway.

Hear reaction from William Burvill who won the vote in the Cuxton, Halling and Riverside ward.

Also on today's episode we've been told how six tonnes of electrical waste has been collected as part of a project in Kent to show children how it can be recycled.

The e-waste warriors programme started in March last year and has also seen 3,600 students learn basic repair skills.

If you're after something to do this summer, we've been finding out more about one of the world's biggest obstacle courses that's opened at a Kent shopping centre.

The Monster is 300 metres long, has more than 40 obstacles to navigate and a mega slide and has taken over The Village car park at Bluewater.

And finally, a Medway school's written and performed a special version of Frozen's Let It Go as part of a farewell for their lollipop lady.

Karen Jones has helped pupils at Maundene Primary School cross the road for more than 30 years. Hear some of their tribute and from the lady herself.

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Police and paramedics were called to Brenchley Gardens in the town centre yesterday evening.

Also in today's episode, a Kent man has been telling us how he spent 19 hours in his wheelchair in a hospital reception after his patient transport failed to materialise.

Kevin Taylor from Sheppey had an appointment at Medway On Call Care earlier this month, following concerns about sweeling to his left leg. But after he'd been seen by medics, he was left waiting to get home.

A Kent pub boss is welcoming plans to cut business rates for some hospitality venues.

Thousands of pubs, clubs and music venues will see a 20% reduction from next April. Hear from Phil Thorley who runs a number of venues in Thanet.

Parents have staged a protest outside a school in Ashford calling for a bus service for pupils.

They're worried that the current walking route to Chilmington Green isn't safe.

The school currently has 274 pupils, but that's expected to increase to more than a thousand.

A new £2.5 million enclosure has opened at a Kent animal park.

Hear from bosses at Wingham near Canterbury who have plans to double in size over the next five years.

And in sport, a Kent athlete is going to lead out Team England at today's opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games.

Sian Honnor from Herne Bay will be competing in Bowls at her 5th Games in Glasgow.

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PC Thomas Odell, 30, from Allhallows Road in Lower Stoke, lost his job following the assault outside the Cuban in February.

Also in today's episode, the KentOnline Podcast has been told as many as 150 children in Swale could be without a secondary school place by September next year.

Kent's assistant director of education has made the admission at a meeting of councillors and residents on Sheppey.

It comes after more than 50 families on the Island were told last year their children would have to travel more than 20 miles to school in Faversham. Hear from a mum whose daughter has missed the whole of year 7.

We've got a a special report on the website today from reporter Elli Hodgson who's spent a night with police to see how they tackle antisocial behaviour in Maidstone.

She headed out with officers during the England versus Norway game at the World Cup.

Football, and Gillingham have beaten Millwall in a pre-season friendly.

They secured a 1-0 victory at Priestfield, thanks to a goal from new striker Will Goodwin. Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth and defender Logan Dobbs.

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17-year-old Adam Dudzinski was driving the vehicle, and drowned along with his girlfriend 16-year-old Chloe-Ann Naylor when the vehicle landed upside down in a ditch full of water on Old Ferry Road in Iwade on January 3rd.

Also in today's podcast, a 28-year-old man's been charged with the murder of former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe.

She was found at her home in Devon earlier this month after suffering serious injuries.

The boss of a Kent homelessness charity has welcomed the new Prime Minister's pledge to end rough sleeping.

Andy Burnham said it was his number one priority after getting the keys to Downing Street yesterday. Hear from the CEO of Canterbury-based Porchlight.

A new conference centre has opened near Ashford, aiming to help people with learning disabilities get meaningful work.

The site at Highlands Farm in Woodchurch will be used for training in things like catering, room set up and customers service. We've been speaking to Sarah Edwards, who's CEO of Canterbury Oast Trust.

And in sport, boxer Moses Itauma and his brother are behind plans for a new gym in Chatham.

The British heavyweight and Karol, who's a youth Olympic gold medallist, have joined forces with Anis Mehmeti, who plays for Ipswich Town and unbeaten featherweight boxing prospect Frankie Wood.

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Andy Burnham is taking over at Number 10 from Sir Keir Starmer and will be the country's seventh PM in just over a decade.

He's promising to offer ‘breathing room’ over the cost-of-living and visited Gravesend just hours after becoming Labour leader on Friday.

Hear what he had to say and you can also hear the thoughts of Medway Council leader Vince Maple.

Also in today's episode, Year 13 students in Kent and those starting uni for the first time this autumn can now get the first dose of a Meningitis B vaccine.

It's being made available following the deaths of two teenagers after an outbreak in Canterbury earlier this year.

Pharmacies will be delivering the jabs.

An art trail in Dartford has got underway to help raise funds for a Kent hospice.

30 decorated sculptures inspired by the classic book 'We're going on a bear hunt' have been placed around the town.

50 bear cubs created by local schools have also been located in museums, libraries and shops.

A new indoor play centre for dogs has opened in Dartford.

The Furry Funhouse is run by Jo Sloat, who's a former children's nurse, she's been telling us how she came up with the idea.

And in sport, it was a narrow defeat for Gillingham in their latest pre-season friendly.

They were beaten 1-0 by Charlton at Priestfield on Saturday. Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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Sam Street had been treated for melanoma, but collapsed shortly after moving into a new house in Newington near Sittingbourne earlier this month.

A scan revealed the cancer had reached his brain and his case is terminal.

Also on today's episode, plans to overhaul how councils are set up and run in Kent have taken a big step forward.

It's now been confirmed that when the current 14 local authorities - including KCC and Medway Council - are scrapped, they'll be replaced with four unitary ones.

There'll be known as north, east, west and mid. Hear from Simon Finlay from the Local Democracy Reporting Service, and Vince Maple who is the leader of Medway Council.

Plans to turn an area of ancient woodland near Maidstone into a quarry have moved on.

Bosses at Kent County Council want to use land at Oaken Wood in Barming to meet the growing demand for building materials.

More than 26,000 people have objected and a protest was held outside County Hall yesterday.

A water company's apologised after residents in a Kent village reported a water leak which hadn't been fixed for five weeks.

It comes as South East Water customers are told not to use a hosepipe during the dry weather.

And in sport, there's another pre-season game for Gillingham this weekend.

They welcome Championship side Charlton Athletic to Priestfield tomorrow.

It follows Tuesday night's 3-0 win at Dover which saw the Gills field different sides in each half.

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Nine cases have been reported in the county since the start of the month.

Vaccination rates in Kent are currently less than 83% which is much lower than the World Health Organisation recommended level of 95%.

Also in today's episode, an Albanian national who's thought to have travelled to the UK each winter to burgle homes has been locked up for crimes committed in Kent.

Gledis Uka, 30, was arrested after blood was found at the scene of break ins in Edenbridge and Sevenoaks - he was then linked to others including in Berkshire, Essex and Suffolk.

You can also hear today from a woman from East Farleigh who never got to meet her dad, and his death remains one of the greatest mysteries of the second world war.

Carol Lockwood has been sharing details from letters as she celebrates her 65th wedding anniversary.

Pupils from schools across Kent are showing off projects they've been running over the past year to promote sustainability.

Children and young people who go to Turner Schools in Folkestone, Dover and Canterbury have been taking part in things like beach cleans, gardening clubs, pond clearing and recycling.

In sport, there's heartbreak for England as they've lost to Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals.

A second half goal from Anthony Gordon gave fans hope, but they went on to concede twice late on. We've got reaction from some fans who watched the game in Dover.

And, Kent's head coach says he's felt the frustration of their poor T20 Blast campaign.

The Spitfires failed to qualify for the knockout stages after several disappointing results.

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The Three Lions are taking on Argentina in Atlanta.

We've been chatting to Darryl Haden who is the chief exec of the Kent FA.

Also in today's podcast, we've got an update on the investigation into the death of former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe.

In yesterday's episode we told you how anti-terror police are now leading the inquiry.

They've now said 78-year-old Miss Widdecombe - who represented part of the county in parliament for 23 years - was killed in a targeted attack.

We've also got more on South East Water's being told to spend more than £30 million on improvements following major outages in Kent.

The regulator's been investigating the company and identified a number of failings.

The cash will come from shareholders and won't affect customer bills. Hear from Lynn Parker from Ofwat.

A new partnership is going to be set up in Kent to try and tackle the problem of flytipping.

It's after the first conference of its kind in the county brought together councils, the Environment Agency, Kent Police and landowners.

The girlfriend of a Kent Police officer who was killed on duty has told us he wouldn't believe she was doing a skydive in his memory.

27 year-old PC Bradley Corke died in a crash near Swanley while responding to an emergency in March.

His partner and best friend are raising money for the Kent, Sussex and Surrey air ambulance that transported him to a hospital in London. 

Bosses in Canterbury are considering introducing new powers to fine buskers if they make too much noise.

The city council say they've received an increase in the number of complaints about amps being used by performers. We've been asking buskers what they think.

And, Gillingham have been left with injury concerns after their pre-season friendly against Dover Athletic.

The Gills won 3-0, with goals from Kadeem Harris, Louie Dayal and Sam Gale.

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The SS Richard Montgomery ran aground during the second world war and has 1,400 tonnes of explosives on board.

The vessels masts can be see protruding from the water and will be taken to Chatham's historic dockyard to be preserved.

Also in today's podcast, Andy Burnham says police must be given the 'space they need' to investigate the death of former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe.

The incoming Prime Minister, who'll be confirmed as Labour leader on Friday, says the 78 year-old died in an 'appalling act of violence.'

Meantime, a digital book of condolence has opened in Maidstone so Miss Widdecombe's former constituents can leave tributes.

A Kent nightclub at the centre of a meningitis outbreak in Kent has been praised for the work it's done to raise aware of symptoms.

Two young people died earlier this year with cases linked to Club Chemistry in Canterbury.

Bosses there also called for a meningitis B vaccine to be rolled out - and year 13 pupils starting university this autumn can now get it.

A leading Kent charity's told the podcast this summer has been incredibly dangerous for people who're sleeping rough.

Temperatures in the county are expected to hit the high 20s again today. Hear from Canterbury-based Porchlight.

And in sport, Gillingham are back in action tonight for their first pre-season friendly.

They're travelling to take on Dover Athletic at The Crabble.

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Police were called to Borstal Recreation Ground on Friday and it's thought the victim was initially attacked in London. Hear from reporter Joe Crossley who has been covering the story.

Detectives have been given more time to question a man arrested on suspicion of murdering former Maidstone MP Ann Widdecombe.

The 28 year-old was arrested in Rotherham on Saturday night, 200 miles from her home in Dartmoor.

A Kent MP has warned British holidaymakers could potentially die in 12-hour queues this summer, unless the EU suspends its new border checks.

The Entry Exit System caused delays at Dover at the start of the May half-term and Herne Bay and Sandwich MP Sir Roger Gale is concerned ambulances will get blocked by traffic.

A Medway woman's been chosen to help create a tiny book that's going to be sent to the Moon.

The project will include pieces of work by international artists aiming to send a bit of Earth's culture into space.

The Moon Bound Book is only one centimetre in size, and is due to blast off as part of a mission later this year.

And in sport, football fans across Kent have been celebrating England reaching the World Cup semi-finals.

Thomas Tuchel's side came from behind to beat Norway 2-1 in Miami on Saturday night.

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She was the Conservative representative for Maidstone for 23 years, and famously appeared on Strictly in 2010. In recent years she became an advisor for Reform UK. Hear the time she appeared on the Kent Politics Podcast.

Also on today's podcast, a report out today has raised concerns about 27-hour waiting times for A&E patients at a Kent hospital.

Inspectors visited the William Harvey in Ashford in February, and found "unacceptable" overcrowding. Urgent and emergency care has been rated as requires improvement. Hear from the watchdog.

It's a going to be a huge weekend for football fans in Kent as England play for a place in the semi-finals of the World Cup.

The Three Lions take on Norway in the quarter finals tomorrow night. It's a 10pm kick off so pubs across the county are expected to be busy. We've been speaking to Superintendent Nick Sparkes from Kent Police.

A Kent tourist attraction has been chosen as part of a campaign by English Heritage to bring back postcards.

They've gathered 800 historical prints of Dover Castle dating back to 1906 while illustrators Nick Sharrat and Sir Quentin Blake have also designed three limited edition postcards that can be collected at 18 historical sites across the country.

And in sport, Kent's Women are in action at their first T20 Blast League Two Finals Day.

They're playing Gloucestershire in the semi-final at Cardiff on Sunday after qualifying second in their group.

The winner will the face Group winners Glamorgan.

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Michael Stone was jailed for murdering Lin Russell and her daughter Megan in a brutal attack in Chillenden in 1996, but has always denied being responsible.

Also in today's episode, a major route has been partially shut due to a serious collision involving a lorry and a female pedestrian.

Police were called to the A20 Snargate Street in Dover in the early hours of this morning.

A Rochester man who physically and mentally abused a woman - then hid in a fridge to try and avoid being arrested - has been jailed.

A court was told 33-year-old Dean Foord cut his victim off from friends and family, controlled her social media and threatened her with a knife.

A primary school in Ashford has become the first in Kent to start a digital detox for pupils in Year 6.

Children at Great Chart have volunteered to trade their smart phones for a basic Nokia for a week in an attempt to tackle screen addiction.

And, audiences are being promised a West End-style experience when a Kent theatre finally reopens.

The Orchard in Dartford has undergone a 28 million pound revamp after closing three years ago following the discovery of potentially dangerous RAAC concrete was found in the roof.

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We're into our third heatwave of the summer with temperatures again in the 30s. There's hardly been any rain either.

Hear from Jos Jones who runs a farm near Meopham and has been speaking to Lucy.

Also in today's podcast, the Reform UK leader of Kent County Council says she supports Nigel Farage's decision to trigger a by-election in Clacton.

He's standing down and will run to re-gain his seat following scrutiny over undeclared donations.

He denies any wrongdoing, and was pitching the vote as a “people versus the establishment” contest.

The boss of a pub near Faversham fears her family could end up losing their home if the road outside is closed for major water works.

South East Water want to shut Head Hill Road in Graveney for up to five months to replace 700 metres of water main.

Reporter Max Chesson has been speaking to Katrina Goater who runs The Four Horseshoes.

And, a former Kent MP says a new facility in Maidstone will help people who use prosthetics turn their lives around.

The centre has been specially designed to support more than a thousand patients across the county who've lost a limb, and get them on the road to recovery. Hear from Craig Mackinlay who lost his hands and feet to sepsis.

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Lauren Bennett was born in Meopham, and appeared on the X-Factor as a teenager.

Also in today's podcast, two people have been arrested during a crackdown on organised crime across Kent.

One man was detained in Dartford on suspicion of modern slavery offences, while another near Sevenoaks was wanted for theft. Police have been telling us more about the operation.

As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, a Kent man has revealed how he lost everything after becoming addicted.

Trevor Smith started drinking when he was about 15 and only noticed he had a problem after getting married in his early 20s.

He ended up in hospital and then went to live at the Kenward Trust rehab centre in Yalding.

It's been revealed hundreds of corner shops and takeaways in Kent have government licences to recruit 'skilled workers' from abroad.

Home Office data shows 2,000 businesses and organisations in the county hold what's known as a visa sponsor licence. Local Democracy Reporter Dan Esson is on the podcast to explain the figures in more detail.

And, the parents of a Kent paramedic have said they want his legacy to be that of saving lives after they unveiled the first defibrillator funded in his memory.

28 year-old Ryan O’Bray, who worked at Sheppey Ambulance Station in Queenborough for seven years, was fighting depression and anxiety when he died in July 2024.

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Hugh Kennedy subjected Vicky Mickford to four months of harassment after their five-year relationship ended.

The 63-year-old from Sandown Road has been given a restraining order. Hear from reporter Millie Bowles who has been covering the story.

Also in today's episode, we've been hearing more about how Pride in Place funding could be spent on Sheppey.

The east end of the island is getting a £20 million cash injection as it's one of Kent's most deprived wards. Local resident Garry Ratcliffe is chair of a board that's been set up to oversee the project and has been speaking to reporter Joe Crossley.

Plans to transform one of Kent's most iconic seafront buildings into a 'Barbican by the Sea' have been unveiled.

The Grand, on The Leas in Folkestone, opened in 1903 and has been owned by a group of local residents since 2022.

Next, and our sister radio station, kmfm, has started a collection to help tackle food poverty this summer.

It's the fourth year they've run the Tonnes of Tins campaign.

Your generous donations will be sent to a number of charities across Kent to help families who're struggling.

In sport, Kent have suffered back-to-back losses in the T20 Blast...

They were beaten by Hampshire Hawks in Southampton after falling 19 runs short of the hosts score of 190, following an 83-run defeat to Worcestershire Rapids on Friday night. Hear from captain Sam Billings.

And Gillingham have signed two goalkeepers.

20-year-old Lennon MacLorg, who's a lifelong Gills fan, was most recently part of Charlton's under-21 set-up.

He's joined as a back-up to new first-choice keeper Ollie Wright - who's signed on a season-long loan from Southampton.

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The UNISON union is concerned about staff who are trying to care for people in the scorching temperatures.

Also in today's episode, an Ashford woman who grew up in Venezuela has told us the devastation in her country following a double earthquake is hard to comprehend.

Tingy Simoes Lopez is collecting emergency kit to help rescuers as tens of thousands of people are still missing.

Donations can be dropped off at the Free Shop in Ashford.

Thousands of veterans in Kent are set to benefit from more support after a new centre opened in Aylesford.

The facility at the Royal British Veterans Enterprises is part of a new programme designed to give ex-service people easier access to health, housing and employment.

A Margate nightclub has had its licence suspended following complaints from neighbours about noise.

A meeting has been told Fusion in Cliff Terrace has repeatedly violated terms which allowed it to stay open until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Thousands of people are expected at the showground in Detling over the next few days as the Kent County Show takes place...

This year's event is also coinciding with another heatwave.

And in football, the Gillingham manager has told us he pleased with their summer signings so far.

They club has been on a recruitment drive after 16 players left the squad at the end of their last campaign.

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The couple, who run Kentish Lady Cruises, have also reported being abused while out on the river in the town.

Hear from Reporter Davina Jethwa who has been covering this story.

Also in today's podcast, another heat health alert has been issued for Kent ahead of what's expected to be a scorching weekend.

Temperatures could hit 30 degrees and the yellow health warning will be in force from Saturday until next Wednesday.

We've been speaking to Dr Carl Wright who is a climate expert from Canterbury.

The chairman of a Kent football club is planning to get a tattoo as part of a fundraising campaign for a coach who has pancreatic cancer.

Paul Squires is hoping to go to Portugal for live-saving treatment, but needs 55-thousand pounds to pay for it.

He volunteers at Hempstead Valley FC - along with Steve Tye, who's agreed to get the club's badge inked on his leg.

And, artwork and toy models found by the family of the Kent co-creator of Bagpuss are going up for auction.

They've been discovered at Peter Fermin's home near Canterbury which is being cleared before it's sold. His daughter Katy Firmin has been speaking to reporter Gerry Warren.

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Sigrid Taylor was born in Ashford and went to school in Canterbury before relocating to America with her family when she was 7.

The 19 year-old had moved back to Herne Bay about a year before her death and a fundraiser's been set up to pay for a headstone.

Also in today's podcast, dozens of pupils are having to find a different school to go to in September after a new one near Thanet failed to get approval in time.

It was hoped Turner Schools Carbon 6 Pathway would be able to start teaching at Discovery Park in Sandwich at the beginning of the new academic year, but paperwork is still being looked over by the Department for Education.

A new art installation has gone on show in Canterbury, featuring poems by schoolboys about wellbeing and masculinity.

Year 8 pupils have been exploring themes of stereotypes, role models and belonging in sessions run by the Uni of Kent.

An interactive artwork honouring Len Goodman is being unveiled in Dartford later.

The former Strictly judge ran a dance school in the town before passing away in 2023.

A series of footprints has now been put on the pavement outside - encouraging people to follow dance steps.

And, Children in Kent who've missed out on seeing England play in the World Cup so far will finally get to watch them later.

Today's match against DR Congo kicks off at the earlier time of 5pm.

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It's been led by Baroness Amos in a bid to drive urgent improvements.

Families who'd received treatment at East Kent Hospitals were among those who contributed to the report. They reported that maternity care is still “fragmented” - but staff say morale has improved.

Hear from a mum whose baby was stillborn at the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.

Also in today's podcast, a leading Kent politician has told us Andy Burnham is the right man to lead the country and reform how local government works.

The former Manchester Mayor has been setting out his plans if he becomes Prime Minister - including transferring some power away from Whitehall. Hear from Vince Maple who is the Labour leader of Medway Council.

Teachers and support staff at Kent's biggest school are beginning another three days of strike action.

Members of the National Education Union have criticised restructuring plans at Homewood in Tenterden, which will lead to job losses and pay cuts.

A Kent homelessness charity has welcomed news that rough sleeping is no longer a crime.

The government has got rid of something known as the Vagrancy Act which was brought in more than 200 years ago to punish people for not having a home. Hear from Chris Thomas from Canterbury based Porchlight.

And, you're being given the chance to nominate who you think should get a top sporting award in Medway.

Previous winners including Olympic gold medallist Nathan Hayes, wheelchair rugby coach Tom Coyd and England rugby captain Rachael Burford.

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People living on Lenham Road have told us they heard lots of sirens at about 5pm yesterday.

Police and ambulance crews had arrived at the scene and set up a cordon, with other motorists being turned away.

Also in today's podcast, a man in his 30s has been seriously injured after a stabbing outside a pub in Maidstone.

He was taken to a London hospital after a police were called to the the High Street near The Stag.

It's hoped a new college campus in Margate with courses in animation and visual effects will help tackle the youth unemployment problem.

A state-of-the-art digital campus has opened in the old M&S building on the High Street.

Meantime, a play based on teenagers' real experiences with social media is being performed by students in Canterbury later.

Generation FOMO uses direct quotes from interviews with young people about some of the issues they face online.

Meantime - the podcast has been hearing about the importance of providing activities for teenagers in Kent when that social media ban comes into force.

The government's planning to stop under-16s using apps like Instagram and Snapchat next year.

And, Kent have bounced back from Friday's defeat with a victory over Hampshire in the T20 Blast.

Daniel Bell-Drummond scored 54 runs and the Spitfires reached their victory target of 177 with eight balls to spare. Hear from Captain Sam Billings.

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Candice Powell from Swanley was first diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2019 following a smear test.

After treatment, she was given the all clear the following year, but started to feel unwell in May 2025. The 39 year-old has been sharing her story.

Also in today's podcast, the ambulance service covering Kent say they've seen a 20% increase in calls this week because of the hot weather.

A red warning for extreme heat is in force across the county today, with temperatures set to hit the mid-30s again. Hear from Nakai Redman from SECAmb.

We're also being urged to make sure dogs in Kent stay safe in the hot weather by keeping them out of the sun during the day.

Owners have been told to avoid walking them unless it's very early in the morning or late evening.

Footage has been released of the moment a van driver helped armed police chase a suspect in Thanet.

Officers had been called to reports of a serious assault at a property in the High Street last week.

A witness has come forward to support a claim from a Kent businessman that he was sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit.

Simon Edgecombe is trying to clear his name, more than 40 years after serving a sentence over how finances were handled at a Post Office in Rainham.

Thousands of people are expected at the Historic Dockyard in Chatham this weekend for Armed Forces Day.

Serving military personnel will join cadets and veterans at the event. Hear from Medway Council leader Vince Maple.

And in sport, Gillingham fans can start preparing for the new season because the fixtures are out.

Their league two campaign will kick off on August 15, hear from our Gills reporter Luke Cawdell.

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23-year-old Brooke George, who's an influencer on TikTok, is being held in custody.

She's accused of killing a 26 year-old but claims to have been acting in self-defence following a violent assault. Hear from senior reporter Joe Crossley who has been following the story.

Also in today's podcast, firefighters in Kent say they can't rule out strike action, as they fight plans to close some on-call stations.

Changes to the service are being discussed at a meeting in Maidstone today, and the Fire Brigades Union is holding a rally outside.

Lucy has been chatting to Danny Barrett who is the Kent secretary for the Fire Brigades Union.

As a red warning for 'extreme heat' remains in force, the hot, dry conditions have led to South East Water bringing in a hosepipe ban.

Customer are being told not to use them for filling up swimming or paddling pools and watering gardens, as demand across the network has been 'exceptionally high'. We've got reaction from Jonathan Hawker who is from campaign group Dry Wells Action.

Advice to only travel by train in Kent if it's absolutely necessary during the hot weather has also been extended.

Southeastern is urging customers to try and avoid using the network until the end of Friday.

And in sport, we'll find out today who Gillingham will be playing in their first game of the new season.

The league two fixtures are out.

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This is only the second time the most severe alert has been issued.

Some schools in the county have decided to stay closed today, while others are shutting early as temperatures could reach around 35c. Hear from Kent's deputy director of public health.

Meantime, dispersal orders have been put in place across Thanet to try and stop antisocial behaviour on the coast.

Police have been given extra powers to break up groups of people in Ramsgate, Margate, Westgate and Broadstairs.

It follows trouble when hundreds of young people gathered during last month's heatwave.

Also on today's episode, students from every secondary school in Gravesham are getting together for a Youth Summit today.

They'll be discussing topics including the upcoming social media ban and concerns about young people who are not in work education or training. We've been speaking to one of the organisers.

And, a former bowling alley in Kent that's been empty since Covid has been transformed into a pool and darts club.

Neptune Sports Lounge has opened on the former Tommy Holland’s amusements site at Beachfields in Sheerness. Reporter Joe Crossley has been along for a look and has spoken to owner Charlie Minter.

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More than 1,300 residents across the county have been asked for their opinion 10 years on from the vote.

Back then, 59% of people in Kent chose to leave the EU, according to the survey 57% would now vote to stay.

We've been speaking to people across the county and also have the thoughts of the chief executive of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, and a man leading a Rejoin campaign.

Also on today's podcast, a day after Sir Keir Starmer announced he was quitting as Prime Minister, some Labour MPs are considering whether to make a bid to replace him.

So far, the only candidate is Andy Burnham who was sworn in yesterday as MP for Makerfield following a by-election last week. We've been asking some of Kent's MPs if they think he would be the right man for the job.

Away from politics, and England fans are getting ready for the country's second group game at the World Cup - and a huge screen has been set up to show it in Margate.

Thomas Tuchel's side are taking on Ghana.

The Drill Shed is based in the historic Lido in the Cliftonville part of town and has a capacity of 750 people.

And in sport, Kent have won their latest game in the county championship.

They beat Middlesex by 49 runs on the final day of action at Canterbury.

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Speaking outside Downing Street, he said he was proud of everything he had achieved since taking over as head of the Labour Party six years ago.

He's confirmed a leadership contest will be held over the summer. Lucy's been getting reaction from local democracy reports Simon Finlay and Robert Boddy.

Also on today's episode, with another amber heat health alert in force across Kent, a campaign is underway to keep us safe by the water.

Temperatures are expected to hit the mid 30s this week, and it's feared some could head to a river to cool off.

Kent Search and Rescue volunteers have started their Safe and Dry campaign and will be patrolling the River in Maidstone.

The boss of a Kent pub chain says hospitality businesses could be the key to tackling youth unemployment, if they get help from the government.

Phil Thorley runs a number of sites in Thanet, and is backing a campaign calling for VAT to be reduced from 20% to 10%.

We've also been to Dover where our reporter has been hearing how the High Street is thriving.

While there are empty shops in other parts of the town - a stretch of the A256 is home to a growing number of independent businesses, community project and creative venture.

And in sport, Gillingham have completed the signing of a new defender.

Liam Gordon, who has played all of his professional career in Scotland to date, has made the move to Priestfield.

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Developer Redrow is currently building an estate in the town known as Preston Fields. At the moment, access to the site is via Canterbury Road along the A2, however, they're going to create a second entrance via Ashford Road.

Once complete, it will be situated a few hundred metres from Junction 6 of the M2 but while the work takes place, the coastbound slip road will be shut.

Also in today's podcast, a man who made £185,000 from smuggling people from the UK to France has been jailed.

Jaskirat Singh was arrested and charged after officers found 11 Indian nationals hiding in the trailer of a lorry at Dover in December 2024.

A mum from Leybourne who lost her baby is fundraising for a memorial garden to help other grieving families.

18 months after her son Dexter was born sleeping, Emily Rollinson is pushing to create the 'safe space' at Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

Historian David Starkey has given KentOnline a tour of his Kent home as he prepares to sell up after more than 20 years.

The Georgian house in Barham near Canterbury is Grade II listed, has seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, four reception rooms, a bespoke library and about three-quarters of an acre of mature gardens. It's on the market for £1.85million.

Finally, a tennis tournament with a difference is taking place near Ashford this weekend.

The sunrise to sunset game is happening at Wye tennis club to raise money for two charities. Hear from a coach there who will be playing for 17 hours.

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They were spotted by Becky outside the King's School in Rochester, and she says she was "horrified" - but bosses have defended the decision.

Also in today's episode, campaigners say they are disappointed plans for homes on a former school site in Hythe have been given the go ahead.

The estate will include a mix of 150 houses and flats on what used to be Foxwood School.

An object found by a metal detectorist in Kent has been declared treasure.

The copper-alloy die stamp dates back to Anglo-Saxon times and could change our understanding of where the famous Sutton Hoo helmet was made.

A couple who previously turned a failing pub around have taken over a riverside spot which shut suddenly earlier this year.

Jamie Rogers and Millie Jenkins are now running The Man of Kent on Tonbridge Road in East Peckham.

And, a village bus shelter has been completely transformed - and could now be the "cutest" in Kent.

The brick structure in Chilham been repainted with hanging baskets on the outside and a book-lending library, artwork and community notices inside.

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They're walking out over six days between now and July 2nd in a dispute over compulsory job losses at Homewood in Tenterden.

It's after plans to move the school to a new trust fell through earlier this year. Hear from the local National Education Union rep and a teacher who is on the picket line.

Also in today's episode, hear from a young dad who has praised staff at Medway Maritime Hospital after his baby was born with a rare condition.

Charlie Hayes and his partner Demi went for a scan when baby Luca stopped moving - he was then delivered by emergency C-section and had to be revived by doctors.

A University of Kent student who arrived in the UK from Iraq when he was just 12, says he still fears he could be told to leave at any moment.

Aws didn't speak any English when his family fled fighting in his home country. The 22-year-old is now in his third year of studying for a degree and has refugee status. He's been sharing his story as part of Refugee Week.

And, a Kent footballer says it was a "privilege" to captain the England team at the Seniors World Cup.

43-year-old Jamie Coyle, who manages Margate, travelled out to Thailand for the tournament which features older players.

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29-year-old Connor Read was in the process of applying for a green card when he was taken to an ICE detention centre. It's understood a removal order had been activated because he didn't have the correct visa.

Reporter Joe Crossley has been speaking to his wife Jaelin.

Also in today's podcast, a Chatham man who stabbed another man after a row over a 10 pound phone debt has been found guilty of murder...

Mark Jesse, 51, attacked his victim at the home they shared in Castle Road last November. Hear the moment he was arrested.

A campaigner from Kent who's worked with hundreds of young people says most of them will welcome the social media ban for under-16s.

The Prime Minister's confirmed new restrictions will come into force from next year. We've been speaking to Isabelle Default from the Portrait Theatre in Canterbury who created a play called Generation FOMO.

A traveller's told today's episode his family will be forced to pitch up on playing fields after their plans for static homes were refused.

They had asked for permission to put eight properties and day rooms on land they bought on White Post Lane near Sole Street last year.

It was refused by Gravesham council and again by the planning inspector following an appeal.

And, a cricketer from Kent is due to make his debut for England this week against New Zealand.

Jordan Cox has been included in the side for the second Test at The Oval which starts tomorrow.

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Sites like TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram will be off limits, in a bid to protect young people from online harms.

The Prime Minister says he's giving kids their childhood back - we've got reaction from Rochester-based social media consultant Zoe Cairns.

Also on today's episode, the boss of a Canterbury bar that was forced to close following a huge fire next door hopes they could reopen before the end of the summer.

Tokyo Tearooms had to close when a blaze broke out in the derelict Odeon cinema in St George's Place on Valentine's Day.

Resident doctors in Kent won't be going on strike today as planned.

Action has been called off and their union, the BMA, will be having discussions with government over pay instead.

James Murray is now in charge of those negotiations after the previous health secretary resigned. Hear from Medway GP Dr Julian Spinks.

An unpaid carer from Canterbury has been telling the KentOnline Podcast about the strain it can put on your finances, as new research is released.

A survey's found 92% of people who look after a loved one have faced financial difficulties.

A school in Herne Bay has been praised for the work it's done to get more children playing during break and lunchtime.

Hampton Primary has been given the highest possible accreditation for the quality of its outdoor play provision, putting it in the top one percent in the country.

And, Kent have stormed to victory in their county championship match against Lancashire.

New signing Hasan Mahmud took six wickets in the second innings, with Kent winning by 140 runs - with a whole day to spare.

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Two young people died after falling ill from the disease in March which was linked to a nightclub in Canterbury.

Under 25s starting Uni for the first time are also being offered two doses of the MenB jab.

Also in today's episode, a 91 year-old woman has been forced to leave her home of 20 years, just weeks after being targeted by thieves.

Queenie Watts was a resident of the Cutbush and Corrall almshouse in Maidstone but was becoming unable to live independently - which is a condition of the accommodation.

The KentOnline Podcast has been told five big office buildings in Kings Hill could be demolished to make way for new houses.

Bosses say the sites are mostly empty because of a change in how we all work after Covid.

And, ahead of a memorial being unveiled in Dartford, Craig Revel-Horwood's paid tribute to fellow Strictly judge Len Goodman.

The TV star passed away in April 2023 just six month after announcing his retirement.

An interactive artwork is going to be installed outside his dance school on Market Street next month.

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Two year-old Ronnie, who lives in Paddock Wood, has been diagnosed with Phelan-McDermid syndrome.

Mum Charlotte Jenner says it's dangerous trying to get him in and out of a vehicle if she can't park in a designated space.

South East Water have agreed to double the amount of compensation for businesses in Tunbridge Wells affected by outages over the winter.

Around 24,000 properties were impacted by a problem at the Pembury Treatment Works.

Meantime, the water minister's told Kent MPs it's essential South East Water rebuilds trust ahead of an expected hot summer.

Representatives from across the county have been speaking at a special session in parliament about supply disruptions.

The most recent happened during the May half term which also saw record high temperatures.

As we get ready for the start of the World Cup, a Kent pub boss says it'll be vital for the hospitality industry this summer.

The tournament, which is being held in America, Mexico and Canada, gets underway tonight.

England's first game is against Croatia next Wednesday in a 9pm kick off. Hear from Tony Palmer who owns the Lord Byron in Margate.

A Kent man's who spent three years fostering dogs has been telling us how rewarding it is.

Frank Atkinson has looked after a total of 30 since signing up with the Dogs Trust in Canterbury.

And, Gillingham have announced another summer signing.

Striker Will Goodwin is joining on a two-year deal.

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Simon Edgecombe was convicted after selling a van to a staff member who took money from the till to cover the cost back in 1983.

He says there was paperwork to prove it was a legitimate transaction, but he was found guilty by a jury and locked up for 12 months. The 71-year-old has been sharing his story in a bid find evidence that will quash the conviction.

Also in today's episode, we've been told a major shake-up of the fire service in Kent is about making sure resources are in the right place and can respond to new risks.

Bosses are looking at closing five standalone on-call stations, and removing similar sections from four other parts of the county.

Money from the sale of any stations that do close, will be reinvested back into emergency training and kit. Hear from Ann Millington who is the chief executive of Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

A Rochester woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 28 is urging people to listen to their bodies if they're dismissed by doctors.

Selina Moss-Davies went to her GP after finding a lump but was only told to keep an eye on it. She's been sharing her story with Lucy.

And, a woman who started a bookshare after moving to Margate is hoping similar ones will be set up across the country during the national Year of Reading.

The campaign - which is led by the department for education and national literacy trust - is about reversing a decline in reading for pleasure.

Bee's Bookshare was founded in 2012 and has already expanded across East Kent.

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A court's been told how Dane May carried out a relentless campaign against his mum and two siblings, including League One footballer Alfie May.

The 38-year-old from Edington Way has been locked up for more than seven years and will spend a further three on licence when he's released.

Also in today's podcast, a warning has been issued about the World Cup leading to a rise in domestic abuse in Kent.

Bosses in Medway have launched a campaign urging people to spot the signs and get help.

As we approach the 10th anniversary of Brexit, one of Kent's MPs has told the podcast it was 'a big mistake'.

The UK voted to leave the EU by 52 percent to 48 in June 2016 - after then Prime Minister David Cameron gave the go ahead for a referendum.

Some campaigners are now calling for the country to re-join the European Union and recently walked from London, through Kent, to Brussels. We've been speaking to Folkestone and Hythe rep Tony Vaughan.

A woman from Sevenoaks who was left paralysed after suffering a cardiac arrest says she's determined not to be a burden on her family.

Nikki Owen spent 10 months in hospital after it happened in February last year.

She's now living in an adapted bungalow in Otford, but has been fundraising to convert a shed into a purpose-built rehab space. Nikki has been speaking to reporter Charlotte Phillips.

And, a Kent golf club has honoured its oldest player.

Christopher Martin turned 100 earlier this year and still regularly plays the sport at Canterbury Golf Club and Driving Range.

He's been a member since 1974 and is actually a year older than the club itself.

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People living in homes on Nightingale View in Hamstreet have reported cracked footpaths, dead trees and patchy, dying grass.

The developer insists it's working on a plan to get the area up to scratch, while the council say they're looking at whether any planning breaches have occurred. Hear from reporter Louis Walker who has been covering the story.

Also on today's episode, a driver who reached speeds of more than 100 miles per hour in heavy rain before causing the deaths of two women on the M20 has been jailed.

The victims had been standing on the hard shoulder of the coastbound carriageway in October 2022 after another vehicle aquaplaned.

A new group's been set up to provide support for thousands of unpaid carers in Kent.

The county council say they want to bring people from different backgrounds together, and give them a voice.

Drop-in sessions are being held at libraries in Ashford and Dartford to provide advice.

A new £15 million healthy living facility has officially opened within a shopping centre in Chatham.

It brings GP practices and community health services together under one roof and is named in memory of Medway's late director of public health, James Williams, who died in 2024.

Ollie Leader from the local democracy reporting service has been along to have a look.

A Kent town has welcomed its first ever Pokémon shop.

Country cards in Snodland has been launched by two electricians who bonded over their love of Pokémon cards and country music.

Reporter Elli Hodgson has been chatting to Keith Blackman and Matt Gibbons.

And in sport, Kent have been beaten by Sussex Sharks in the T20 Blast.

They only managed a score of 133 after batting first at Hove.

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It's been a problem during the warm weather - particularly at the coast.

Officers are now stepping up patrols and using dispersal orders to move on anyone causing trouble.

Also in today's episode, a search is underway for a hit and run driver who left a pet dog with serious injuries near Dover.

Sully, a 21-month-old Labrador, had to have a leg amputated after being struck by a van in the Whitfield part of town last month.

Police say an investigation is ongoing and they're keen to hear from anyone with dash-cam footage.

A skills hub has opened in Kent in a bid to get young people, veterans and former prisoners into work.

It's after recent stats revealed more than a million 16 to 24 year-olds are out of work, training or education.

The facility at Hermitage Quarry in Maidstone will support projects like the Lower Thames Crossing.

As we mark National Fish & Chip Day, a shop in Sittingbourne has been telling us how they've adapted to stay in business.

Marino Fish Bar on London Road is celebrating its 30th birthday, and has been nominated for three prizes in this year's English Fish and Chip Awards. Winners will be announced later this month.

Thousands of people are expected in Canterbury tomorrow for Kent's biggest Pride event.

It'll start with a parade through the city centre from 11 - before acts take to the stage in the Dane John Gardens.

This year marks the event's 10th anniversary, and a return to its traditional home after major work there last summer.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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%.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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Fire crews were called to Matts Hill Farm shortly after people reported hearing loud explosions.

Also in today’s podcast, the father of an 18-year-old girl who died during the Kent meningitis outbreak has described his family’s devastation as “immeasurable” as they call for urgent changes to vaccine access.

Juliette Kenny, a Year 13 pupil at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham, died on Saturday - less than 24 hours after first falling ill.

Opposition parties have stormed out of a “divisive fantasy debate” on immigration at County Hall.

In scenes of high drama rarely seen at Kent County Council Liberal Democrat leader Antony Hook led the members out after saying the motion was a “political stunt” based on “discriminatory assumptions”.

Dad-friendly play dates are being launched in Tunbridge Wells this weekend by support group Dad La Soul.

The two hour sessions blend play and culture, offering men a place to connect and engage with their children

And in football, Gillingham’s run of games against promotion chasers is over, but they’re still expects a tough test at Priestfield this weekend. 

The Gills have conceded 12 goals in their last three games –  you can hear from striker Ronan Hale as they prepare to welcome Bristol Rovers. 

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An inspection of HMP Swaleside on Sheppey, found incidents of violence and drug supply were high.

Concerns have also been raised about the risk to the public, with the site failing as a training and rehabilitation facility.

But first, there's been another increase in the number of cases of meningitis in Kent following a deadly outbreak.

Health experts say 15 are confirmed and 12 are being investigated - bringing the total to 27.

Two young people have died and others are being treated in hospital.

The outbreak centres around Canterbury, hear from the acting vice chancellor at the University of Kent, and the city's MP who is calling for a MenB vaccine to be more widely available.

A man's been arrested following a stabbing in Gillingham.

Armed police were called to Mill Road near the Medway Park sports centre yesterday lunchtime, we've got reaction from people in the area at the time.

And in sport, Maidstone Grammar School will compete in the final of the National Under 18 Vase today.

They'll take on Newcastle's Dame Allen School at Twickenham after a hard fought campaign.

As a state-funded school, they've competed against mostly independent schools in the knock-out rounds.

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Medics say six are confirmed to be group B meningococcal disease - or MenB.

Meantime, a mum has spoken of her shock after her daughter became ill and ended up in hospital.

21-year-old Keeleigh Goodwin lives in a house share in the Wincheap part of Canterbury and started to feel unwell over the weekend.

The outbreak is being linked to three events at Club Chemistry in the city and anyone who went there is being urged to get antibiotics as a precaution.

So far, 2,500 doses of antibiotics have been handed out at four clinics in the county. In this episode, you can also hear from Dr Anjan Ghosh who is Kent's director of public health.

Other top stories, and, a Birchington man who organised the supply of class A drugs across east Kent has been locked up.

Police say the 30-year-old used a luxury watch business as a cover up and was caught singing while handling his illicit money.

A father and step-daughter have joined forces to bring traditional English dishes to a Kent town with a new “upmarket” eatery in a former landmark pub.

Businessman Henry Cooper and Tabitha Bennet are transforming the old King’s Head in Sittingbourne into a café and restaurant.

And in sport, the Gillingham manager is focusing on performance, rather than results, after last night's loss to Swindon Town.

They were defeated 2-0 at Priestfield despite managing 20 shots on target.

Hear from Gareth Ainsworth and young striker Harry Waldock.

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18-year-old Juliette Kenney was in the sixth form at Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School. A student from the University of Kent has also died, while other young people remain in hospital.

The UK health security agency has confirmed Meningitis B is the strain behind the outbreak.

Babies have been vaccinated against it since 2015, but older students aren't protected unless they've had the jab.

Also in today's podcast, the multi-million pound rebuild of a school near Sittingbourne has been completed, following more than 18 months of work.

It means Teynham Primary will be able to welcome more pupils in future, as hundreds of new homes are also planned for the area.

The new Archbishop of Canterbury is setting off on an 87-mile pilgrimage today - ahead of her installation at Canterbury Cathedral.

Dame Sarah Mullally will walk from St Paul's Cathedral to Canterbury Cathedral, joining prayer services at churches and abbeys along the way.

And in sport,  the Gillingham boss has told his squad they need to toughen up ahead of tonight's clash against Swindon Town.

The Gills have suffered a run of disappointing results - losing 5 - 0 to Cambridge United last time out.

They're sitting 17th in League Two, while tonight's visitors to Priestfield are in 6th.

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One was studying at the University of Kent in the city while the other was in the sixth form at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham.

Several other young people, who are believed to be Uni students, are understood to be in hospital.

Hear from our reporter Max Chesson who has been at the campus. We've also been speaking to a leading GP about how contagious the infection is.

Also in today's podcast, figures seen by KentOnline show more than 2700 households in Kent are living in temporary accommodation. That includes more than 1,600 families with children.

Medway has the highest number, followed by Dover. But, some areas have managed to reduce their figures including Thanet, where it's dropped from 302 to 219 in the space of a year.

A Kent family have been accused of fraud, after launching a fundraiser to help build an accessible home for their disabled son.

Eight-year-old Evan has muscular dystrophy and money is being raised to build a property near Maidstone with all the required adaptations inside.  

Mum Laura says their GoFundMe was reported by people who believe Evan looks too healthy.

And in sport,  the Gillingham manager's said his side have hit 'rock bottom' after another heavy defeat in league two.

They lost 5-0 away at Cambridge United on Saturday - following a 5-1 loss to MK Dons on Tuesday night.

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Ammber Fenn was driving her car towards Sittingbourne on the A249, near Sheppey Crossing, when it collided with a BMW on January 30.

Also in today’s podcast, a leading expert has been asked to help with a project to tackle health inequalities in Kent.

The county council say it's one of their top priorities - after stats revealed people in some coastal areas have poorer health and a shorter life expectancy that those inland.

We’ve got the details as it’s been revealed one of Kent’s MPs has declared more in outside interests since the start of 2025 than any other by some distance.

Tom Tugendhat has two additional jobs paying almost twice the average salary for only a few hours a month, and has taken expensive trips around the globe paid for by foreign governments and think tanks.

The KentOnline Podcast has spoken to a Kent woman who's recovering from an eating disorder and says weight loss jabs are creating a worrying new dynamic for people with body image issues.

Shannon Travers-Spencer says she tried to purchase them when suffering a relapse - and found it far too easy.

And in football, it's a trip to promotion chasing Cambridge United for Gillingham this weekend.

It follows Tuesday night's 5-1 defeat to MK Dons at Priestfield – you can hear from striker Sam Vokes who says they're determined to put things right. 

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Bosses in Tonbridge and Malling are in the process of drawing up a new Local Plan which allocates land for more than 19,000 new homes across the borough by 2042 - expanding the borough’s population by over a third.

Also in today’s podcast, the 999 call an e-bike rider made to the emergency services after striking a 91-year-old as he put the rubbish out has been released.

Clifford Cage has become the first cyclist in British legal history to be convicted of manslaughter but has avoided being sent to prison – you can hear from the daughter of the victim who spoke following the sentencing. 

A mum-of-three who created an award-winning podcast after losing her husband in a scuba diving tragedy has published her first book about coping and recovering from losing a partner.

Ben Moss from Faversham failed to resurface during a trip near Dover and his body's never been found – wife Rosie started a podcast to share her story and hear from other widows. 

The owner of an animal sanctuary has spoken to us about her relief after legal proceedings against her were dropped.

The action had been brought against the Happy Pants Ranch near Sittingbourne after it was alleged that the animal sanctuary had failed to comply with a noise abatement order it had served after neighbours reported disturbance.

And a visitor car park at one of the UK’s most famous beauty spots is now being locked overnight following a surge in anti-social behaviour.

The National Trust has introduced the restrictions at a 300-space site serving the iconic White Cliffs of Dover.

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The outline planning application for a mixed-use neighbourhood in Meopham would be 50% affordable and targeted at first-time buyers and downsizers.

Also in today’s podcast, a controversial massive housing development backed by Prince William has been given the green light despite claims it would be an “eyesore” and a “Trojan Horse” for even more homes.

After hours of debate in a council meeting last night, the 2,500-home estate on the southeast edge of Faversham has been approved. 

A mum-of-two says she was “put through hell” by one of her late husband’s clients who refused to pay for building work carried out shortly before his death.

You can hear from Jo-Anne Mapp, whose husband was in the process of renovating a home in Whitstable when he died in July last year.

One of Medway's MPs has told us graffiti in her constituency is making the area look uncared for and unloved.

Naushabah Khan's reported an increase in tags on walls in Gillingham and has started a campaign to clean it up.

And in football, you can hear from the manager after Gillingham were soundly beaten at home by Milton Keynes Dons last night. 

The Gills conceded three goals in 18 first-half minutes – they’re the third team since the start of the year to beat the Gills at Priestfield by three goals or more.

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It follows several ongoing planning disputes over the use of the farmland near Gravesend in the past three years. 

Also in today’s podcast, dramatic police footage has emerged showing a fleeing thief leaping from a second-floor window to avoid being arrested.

When officers tried to arrest Bobby Thorpe, he refused them entry to the Tonbridge property, and they forced their way inside.

A campaign started in Kent calling for the age women are first called for a mammogram to be lowered could now be debated in parliament.

It's after a chemotherapy nurse noticed an increase in the number of younger women with breast cancer. 

The boss of a dedicated live music venue opening this weekend says it will bring “quality entertainment” to a town that is currently “underserved”.

Stuart Cameron is launching The Swale Assembly in what used to be Life nightclub in Sittingbourne High Street. 

And in football, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth has spoken of the ‘seemingly endless resources’ available to midweek visitors MK Dons.

They’re second in the League Two table ahead of their visit to Priestfield tonight, five points behind leaders Bromley and with a game in hand.

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He was “extremely intoxicated” at the time and demanded to be let on board while the vehicle had been stopped in traffic. 

Also in today’s podcast, you can hear from a Kent charity who say they've had a record year for the amount of surplus food they've redistributed.

FareShare collects products from supermarkets that would otherwise go to waste - bosses say they’ve hit targets they haven’t seen since the pandemic. 

Parts of a former Debenhams are set to undergo a major transformation starting this week - with a medical centre earmarked for the site in Folkestone. 

Plans to transform the Art Deco section of the town centre building, known as Folca Two, have been in motion to bring the property back into public use.

We’ve got the details on a bid to make Thanet the “Isle of Culture” for 2029 

Artist and Margate resident Dame Tracey Emin, along with East Thanet MP Polly Billington, have kickstarted the campaign.

And in football, we’ve heard from manager Gareth Ainsworth after a late equaliser denied Gillingham victory on Saturday.

The Gills looked set to earn all three points before Fleetwood struck deep into stoppage time to rescue a point, the game ending 1-1.

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Phil Webster had been approaching a roundabout on the A249 when he says he was cut up by another vehicle.

Also in today's podcast, more than 40 people have been arrested as Kent Police crack down on fraud.

Officers have been targeting suspected criminals who defraud others through romance scams, unnecessary building repairs and postal scams.

Campaigners have welcomed news that a merger of two private schools in Kent has been put on hold.

St Lawrence College in Ramsgate announced last week it was going to close its site and join forces with Dover College.

Parents criticised a lack of consultation and bosses now say they will reconsider options open to them. Hear from Laura Holden who has a child there.

There are plans to spend £4 million on another bridge over the River Medway in Maidstone.

It would run alongside the existing High Level Rail Bridge and be specifically for cyclists.

In sport,  it's a home game for Gillingham this weekend, following last week's victory away at Barrow.

The Gills scored in the dying seconds to secure a 1-0 victory after three losses in a row. We've been catching up with striker Seb Palmer-Holden and manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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