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council previously provided £10 a week for pupils on free school meals to use during the holidays, but it has been withdrawn due to 'funding constraints'.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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Huge plumes of smoke were seen coming from Swanton House in Elwick Road yesterday evening. Hear from our reporter Max Chesson who has been to the scene.

Also in today's episode,  a document detailing where 23,000 homes could be built in Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay will be debated by councillors for the first time tonight.

It's known as a Local Plan and also sets out where things like roads will need to be constructed to support new developments and growing populations. Our local democracy reporter Dan Esson has more information.

The MP for Ashford is warning that exposure to misinformation on social media is damaging children's mental health.

It's as TikTok videos have emerged encouraging so called "school wars" across the county, with organised fighting between pupils.

A number of schools have sent letters home to parents saying it's already impacting children. We've been speaking to Sojan Joseph.

Vouchers will be handed out in schools across Kent as we celebrate World Book Day.

It's as recent figures from the National Literacy Trust show daily reading levels for children have reached a 20-year low. Hear from award winning Kent author Annabel Steadman who wrote the Skandar series.

And in sport, the Maidstone United manager's admitted he may need to add to his squad due to injury problems.

Strike Muhammadu Faal was stretchered off on Tuesday night while goalkeeper Nathan Harness suffered concussion.

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The A299 between the Dargate Services and Roman Galley pub has been reduced to 50 miles per hour since last September after bumps appeared in the surface.

The county council say repairs will be carried out over six weeks from June 1st.

Also in today's podcast, police have released footage of the moment they found a burglar hiding in the loft of a house in Ashford.

Antony Allen, 47, who doesn't have a permanent address, had targeted a home in the town at Christmas while the owners were away.

As the conflict in the Middle East continues, holidaymakers in Kent are being urged not to panic if they have got future flights booked to countries like Dubai.

Thousands of Brits have been left stranded after the country was caught up in retaliatory strikes over the weekend. Hear from Chris Scoble who owns a travel agents in Tunbridge Wells.

Meantime, we're told pupils at a school in Dubai that's partnered with one here in Kent are being offered support during the unrest.

Explosions were reported in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday and students at Kent College Dubai are currently doing remote learning to stay safe.

A construction graduate from Canterbury says more needs to be done to help women and girls get into the building industry.

25 year-old Jessica Scanlon works on a site in Deal, after getting a degree in project management. She's calling for an end to gender stereotypes when career advice is given in schools.

And in sport, Scott Wagstaff has been named as the new manager of the youth team at Gillingham.

He takes over from Joe Dunne who left the club last month.

The 35-year-old made 66 appearances for the Gills over two years, scoring four goals, and still plays for Tonbridge Angels.

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Justin Cooke received a message on his phone shortly before seeing puffs of smoke in the sky as the missiles were intercepted.

The retaliatory strikes on Saturday followed an attack by America and Israel on Iran which killed the country's leader.

Also in today's episode, the head of the Met Police says he's fiercely committed to restoring trust, five years on from the murder of Sarah Everard.

The 33-year-old was abducted in Clapham by then serving officer Wayne Couzens from Deal, her body was later found in woodland near Ashford. We've been asking women in Rochester how safe they feel now.

The Canterbury MP has raised concerns in the commons about funding for children with Special Educational Needs in Kent.

It follows an announcement from the government that £4 billion will be invested to make mainstream schools more inclusive.

A Kent football club say they've been left in limbo after developers dropped plans for two 3G pitches, as part of proposals for a new housing estate.

Larkfield and New Hythe Football Club have been working with Obee Estates to deliver a community sports hub at the site of the former Oast Park Golf Course. However, a revised application includes 320 houses and a grass pitch only.

And in sport, there's action in the quarter finals of the Kent Senior Cup tonight.

Gillingham take on Tonbridge Angels at the Longmead Stadium.

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Black Cat hardware closed on Valentine's Day with the owner telling customers it was no longer feasible to keep it open due to a drop in footfall. It follows other independents who have shut in recent months and our reporter has been getting reaction from Declan Forley who runs Sheerness Mobility Ltd with his dad.

Also in today's podcast, the foreign secretary says they're working to bring home tens of thousands of British nationals stranded in the United Arab Emirates following a weekend of airstrikes.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been targeted in revenge for the US and Israel carrying out an attack on Iran over the weekend which killed its supreme leader.

Dr Yaniv Voller is a senior lecturer in Middle East politics at the University of Kent, he's been explaining why the UAE has been caught up in the dispute and what Britain's involvement is.

A KentOnline investigation has found a car park company has made nearly £20,000 from drivers in Kent through what's known as 'major keying errors'.

It happens if you enter a digit incorrectly when putting your number plate into a payment machine at various country parks. Hear from one man who was issued with a penalty notice.

A Kent footballer's been telling us what it's like to train and play during Ramadan.

Throughout the holy month many Muslims choose not to eat or drink during daylight hours. Muhammadu Faal plays for Maidstone United and has praised how supportive the club have been.

And,  it was a dramatic last minute win for Gillingham at the weekend.

They beat Barrow 1-0 away from home from pretty much the last kick of the match in the 103rd minute. We've got reaction from manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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Charlotte Redsell was a much-loved and well respected boss at Fish 55 in Rochester but the community was rocked by her death last October at the age of just 26. 

Also in today’s podcast, a killer captured on CCTV shouting "I've got a nice surprise for you" as he swung a machete-style blade at his victim before chasing him to his death has been jailed for 16 years.

Chris Maclean could also be heard yelling "Game over" after the pursuit of Jay Gerrett in Sittingbourne tragically ended with him falling from a height of 13ft down an embankment and retaining wall into the path of a passing car on the road below.

A window cleaner whose heart stopped nine times while he was working at a pub admits it is a “miracle” he is still alive.

Joe Carver suffered a cardiac arrest while on a job in November 2025 – he spokes to us and says it was the wake up call he needed. 

You can hear from a Kent teen who only last summer left school but is now running her own business.

18-year-old Daisy Webb has opened The Boat and Bean cafe bar in Wateringbury after deciding university was not for her. 

And in football, after a disappointing 3-nil defeat last time out, Gillingham head to Barrow this weekend.

They've dropped to 16th in the league two table and are 12 points off the play-offs – we’ve spoken to defender Robbie McKenzie ahead of the match. 

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It follows a million-pound makeover of The Canterbury Tales - which tells Geoffrey Chaucer's much-loved stories of a medieval cast of pilgrims on their journey from London to Canterbury Cathedral.

Also in today’s podcast, we’ve spoken to a Kent homelessness charity as new figures show there's been a rise in the number of people sleeping rough on our streets.

A government snapshot shows 174 were counted on a single night last autumn – that’s an increase of 17%. 

You can also hear from the neice of a Rainham man who died from a rare cancer at just 55 who’s hoping to raise money so other people can be tested for it.

Andy Bird initially thought a lump on his leg was an insect bite - but it turned out to be epithelioid sarcoma.

A transport boss is ditching the Middle East to come back home and get back behind the pumps at an award-winning pub.

New licensees have taken over the running of The Admiral’s Arm in Queenborough - which was previously named Kent pub of the year as well as one of the top 16 pubs in Britain.

And you can hear from a Kent family who were left stunned as their dog gave birth to a record-breaking 17 puppies.

The owner, who lives near Canterbury, has told us how the adorable Irish Doodles “just kept coming” after her pet went into a 13-hour labour.

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The blaze ripped through her three-bedroom house in South Ashford last month and she was initially told she would be able to return once repairs to the council-owned property had been completed.

Also in today’s podcast, the KentOnline Podcast has been told the Port of Dover will be ready for the full rollout of new border checks for passengers heading to the EU.

From the 10th of April, everyone travelling through to mainland Europe will have to provide a fingerprint and photo – you can hear from the Port CEO ahead of the changes. 

You can hear from a mum-of-two was told she had multiple brain tumours after previously battling breast cancer twice.

The 35-year-old underwent successful surgery in 2024 but just before Christmas last year, she started suffering from severe headaches and problems with her vision.

Another Kent town has bid to become the first-ever UK Town of Culture. 

The competition aims to celebrate the legacy and creativity of some of the country’s smaller places – Chatham’s bid is being led by Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust. 

And the local authority in Maidstone say there's been an incredible community response to a campaign to save Swift colonies. 

They're taking action to try to bolster declining populations but handing out free boxes for the birds to nest in. 

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The group regularly travel from Ashford to swim at sunrise, but say they've seen an increasing number of floating objects.

Hear from one of the group, and we've had a response from Southern Water.

Also in today's podcast, a Kent campaigner's told us she has some concerns over the government's plans to reform the special educational needs system.

Yesterday, they announced a £4 billion package and say more youngsters with SEN will be taught in mainstream schools by offering language therapists and specialist teacher training. Lisa Lloyd from Aylesford has some concerns.

We've been hearing from the bosses of a Kent vineyard about how they've been impacted by the wet start to the year.

Bosses at Nucleus Winery at Fort Borstal say heavy and persistent rainfall can wash nutrients away from the soil and hamper harvesting efforts.

A dental practice has opened on a new-build estate in north Kent after hundreds of residents called for one.

Smile Tech Dental's set up a branch at The Prep Rooms in Castle Hill which is part of Ebbsfleet Garden City and is designed to be a one-stop shop for people living there.

And in sport, Gillingham's Marcus Wyllie has gone out on load for the rest of the season.

The striker hasn't played a league game for the Gills in four months and has moved to National South side Ebbsfleet United.

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The owners want to convert an area of land that's currently used for parking between Carpet Right and Dunelm at the site in Mill Way.

Hear from reporter Alex Langridge who has been covering the story.

Also on today's episode, a Sheppey woman who lost her dad to cancer is calling on peers not to stand in the way of the assisted dying bill.

MPs voted it through last June with a narrow majority. It's now being debated in the House of Lords, but faces more than 1,000 amendments.

Claire Blythe's dad Thomas passed away in December after being diagnosed with lung cancer, she's been speaking to reporter Joe Crossley.

Nurseries in Kent are taking on a challenge to read at least four books a day, as data show children's reading has hit a 20-year low.

Figures from the National Literacy Trust show one in ten children don't own a book and only half of parents read with their child daily.  

Busy Bees Nurseries across the county are taking part in a nation wide initiative to help promote reading at home.

A former arcade on Sheppey is set to reopen as a sports lounge.

The site in Beachfields in Sheerness has been empty for several years after closing during Covid.

Neptune Sports Lounge is moving from its current location in Neptune Terrace and we've been speaking to owner Charlie Minta.

Bosses at Rochester Cathedral are hoping to install solar panels on the roof of the historic building.

The Church of England has set targets for all of its sites to be carbon neutral by 2030, and we've been speaking to Simon Lace who's Chief Operating Officer at the Cathedral.

And in sport,  it was a very disappointing weekend Gillingham.

They were beaten by 3-0 by Oldham at Priestfield on Saturday, leaving them 16th in League Two.

We've got reaction from manager Gareth Ainsworth and midfielder Bradley Dack.

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Ofsted found safeguarding measures at Wayfield Primary were not being met, and demanded urgent improvements be implemented.

School bosses and the trust running it, say they take the report very seriously and have already been implementing a robust programme of improvement.

Also in today's podcast, a father and son accused of murdering a four-year-old boy in a hit-and-run in Southfleet have been found not guilty.

Peter Maughan was in a Ford Ranger which was "clipped at speed" by another vehicle on New Barn Road last June. Hear from a detective who reacted to the verdict outside court.

We've been hearing from a business owner in Canterbury who's still unable to trade, days after a devastating fire nearby.

The Odeon cinema in St George's Place caught alight last Saturday afternoon and we've been chatting to Louise Jones-Roberts who runs Tokyo Tea Rooms.

Young people in Kent are being encouraged to show their love for nature by taking part in a hedge planting campaign.

Tomorrow is being dubbed Hedgentines Day and is being celebrated with a planting event in Chislet near Canterbury as part of a joint project between the Campaign to Protect Rural England and Youngwilders.

In sport, Chatham Town are getting ready for a big weekend - they're playing in the fifth round of the Women's FA Cup.

They'll be the underdogs tomorrow as they take on WSL 2 side Birmingham City at St Andrew's.

And, the Gillingham boss is looking for a response from his squad in this weekend's league two clash with Oldham Athletic. 

The Gills suffered another defeat away at Chesterfield during the week - hear from Gareth Ainsworth.

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What started as a decent deed from the Whitstable mum ended with a horror attack, which also saw her hit around the head with a hammer.

Also in today’s podcast, the Folkestone son of a woman who was arrested with her partner in Iran on charges of espionage has confirmed they’ve been jailed for 10 years.

Lindsay and Craig Foreman were detained in January 2025 while travelling through the country on a motorcycle journey.

Frustrated residents have joined forces to demand the return of their lost community centre, described as “the heart of the village”.

They came together outside the now-shut building which previously served as the base for Age UK day centre.

There are calls for parents in Kent to be more aware of the impact physical activity can have on their children's mental health.

Exercise is being suggested as a way of helping those who might be struggling with things like stress, depression or anxiety.

And you can hear from a couple who are relishing the opportunity to realise a lifetime’s ambition of running their community pub.

They’ve taken over The Rising Sun in Rochester, a venue they’ve frequented for many years.

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It’s been announced the annual Leeds Castle Classical Concert, which has been running since 1978, will no longer continue after this year. 

Also in today’s podcast, youths on e-bikes and e-scooters gathering in the car park of a leisure centre at night have been accused of intimidating residents.

Community leaders now want to reassure people that the police and council are cracking down on the anti-social behaviour reported at Cozenton Park Sports Centre in Rainham. 

Reform UK councillors who were booted out of the party at Kent County Council have joined a new rival political party. 

MP Rupert Lowe announced yesterday that seven defectors had joined his new party, Restore Britain – we’ll take a look at who they are and what this means for the county. 

A new bar has opened on a farm following a village backlash over the closure of a popular taproom.

But while many pubs are struggling, The Loddington Tap is already looking to expand, despite having opened just two months ago.

And in football, Gillingham’s manager defended his players after watching them lose again – but even he’s losing patience over conceding from set-pieces.

For the second time in four days, the Gills were beaten by a top-half team 1-0 after defeat at Chesterfield on last night.

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He was investigated for serious professional misconduct following complaints about his behaviour during one-to-one sessions and small group training exercises.

Also in today’s podcast, a detective leading an investigation into the death of a man killed near a Kent beach says the “sad” case has ruined multiple lives.

A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 16 and 15, were cleared by a jury after being accused of murdering Alexander Cashford in Leysdown last year.

Bosses in Maidstone say they're working on a solution to address concerns over violence against women and girls. 

A recent council survey found nearly a third of residents think it's a "very big problem", while hundreds of people reported being a victim of physical or sexual assault. 

You can hear from a Kent animal park who have managed to rescue a Eurasian Lynx from war-torn Ukraine.

Ursa spent three years living in a converted horse stable after being kept illegally as a pet and she's now been transported over to the Big Cat Sanctuary. 

And in football, Gillingham face another tough game in league two tonight – they're travelling to take on Chesterfield after losing 1-nil to Crewe Alexandra at the weekend.

Manager Gareth Ainsworth says we can expect some changes to the squad. 

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The Folkestone man says conmen posing as buyers distracted him while secretly pouring oil on the engine of his Mercedes in a calculated bid to convince him it was worthless.

Also in today’s podcast, an inquest has heard a much-loved dad died after being crushed by a concrete drain at the construction site he was working on. 

Joe Heath was helping build a new logistics centre for COOK Classic in the Eurolink Industrial Estate in Sittingbourne when his death occurred. 

Angry residents say their new-build homes have been “ruined” by a spiked metal fence installed just feet from their windows.

Homeowners and council tenants at the Woodlands development in Broad Oak, near Canterbury, told KentOnline they now feel like prisoners.

People living in a country lane are fed up with flooding on the road outside their homes – but there’s no obvious cause. 

There is a section of Vicarage Lane in East Farleigh that floods every time it rains and then remains flooded for days afterwards.

And in sport, Tunbridge Wells' Matt Weston is a double Olympic champion - and a history maker twice over - after steering Team GB to victory in a dramatic inaugural team skeleton event at Milano Cortina.

Following a record-breaking victory in the men’s event, Weston once again proved he is the world's best with a storming run with he and his partner topping the podium in a landmark moment for British sport.

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The Rochester man tried to kill Lt Col Mark Teeton near Brompton Barracks in July 2024, after his mental health deteriorated and he started to have “murderous fantasies.”

Also in today’s podcast, the Reform UK Kent County Council budget passed amid warnings from the opposition and a senior officer about its risks.

It went through by 48 votes to 26, with one abstention, to applause, whistles and a standing ovation after a meeting lasting eight hours.

There'll be no road access to a Kent village overnight this weekend, as work's being carried out to replace a level crossing.

Residents on the Isle of Grain have raised concerns about being "cut off" – we’ve spoken to Network Rail about the work and the impacts it’ll have.

A project aimed at tackling underage vape sales is being launched in Maidstone today.

It's the next phase of Local Vape Action, which sees Trading Standards and Kent Police work with retailers to drive compliance and protect young people.

And in football, it's another long trip north for Gillingham in league two this weekend.

They travel to take on Crewe Alexandra who're four places above them in the league two table with both sides are pushing for the play-offs.

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24 year-old Tyler Keyes from St Radiguns Road was driving his girlfriend's BMW when he collided with a moped at the Whitfield roundabout last June, leaving the rider unconscious.

Also in today's podcast, a meeting is taking place at County Hall to discuss KCC's budget for the next financial year.

It's Reform UK's first in charge of the authority and leader Linden Kemkaran has previously said the council is focused on delivering savings for residents. Hear from our local democracy reporter Simon Finlay.

There's going to be a public meeting later over the regular closure of a busy road in Medway.

The Lower Rainham Road, which runs from Gads Hill to Otterham Quay Lane, was shut for 100 days last year. We've been speaking to Gillingham and Rainham MP Naushabah Khan who has organised the event.

Employers across Kent are being encouraged to consider taking on an apprentice.

The EKC Group is looking for 100 pledges from businesses to consider it in the next 100 days.

And, Leigh-Anne has been on our sister radio station kmfm talking about her debut album.

The former Little Mix star caught up with Jack on the Hit List ahead of the release of 'My Ego Told Me To' next week.

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The subway in Ashford regularly becomes impassable after heavy rain, leaving pedestrians stranded – you can hear from a KentOnline reporter who went down to take a look for himself. 

Also in today's podcast, a young couple have been banned from keeping animals after they effectively left their dog to starve to death.

The failed to properly feed their greyhound cross, Rocky, despite being given vouchers by an animal charity to buy dog food.

A court has heard one of two men accused of murdering a four-year-old in a high-speed hit-and-run was found by police drunk in bed. 

The suspect was arrested at his sister's home in Berkshire two days after the smash in Southfleet – we’ve got audio of the moment he was detained. 

Passengers are being warned to prepare for vital works at Kent’s busiest railway junction.

During the February half-term, £10million is being poured into track upgrades at Dartford Junction and will affect travel around the county.

And the new bosses behind reopening one of Kent’s most historic venues have revealed their plans could see audiences back before the end of the year.

That’s the aim for the management team preparing to get Margate’s Winter Gardens open to the public again as part of a multi-million-pound restoration.

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Pictures at KentOnline show injuries suffered by Louie Watkins after it happened when he drove along New Barn Road towards Gravesend. Hear from reporter Brad Harper who has been covering the story.

Also on today's podcast, a Kent MP's among those supporting the Prime Minister, as he insists he's not going anywhere.

Sir Keir Starmer survived a difficult day yesterday after the Lord Mandelson scandal led to calls for his resignation. We have been speaking to East Thanet MP Polly Billington.

A leading social media expert in Kent has told us it's essential young people are taught about AI and how to spot fake content online.

Safer Internet Day this year is all about how to use the tech responsibly. Hear from consultant Zoe Cairns who is based in Medway.

A Dartford dad has been left in intensive care for weeks after undergoing a routine tonsillectomy.

Cardiff Dicdican had the procedure at Medway Maritime, but after several bleeding episodes during recovery he went to The Princess Royal University Hospital in Farnborough. Reporter Charlotte Phillips has been speaking to his wife Jessica.

A new exhibition is opening at Rochester Cathedral today aiming to make us think about our human impact on the environment.

Three giant whale sculptures have been created using recycled netting, and will be hanging from the nave.

And, a village pub has re-opened following a £200,000 renovation.

The Five Bells in Lower Halling has been closed for the past five weeks so work can be carried out.

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Harry Mustoe-Playfair lives on Beech Close and says he's limited to Fibre to the Cabinet, which is an increasingly outdated technology.

The fabric printing business owner and his wife both work from home, making fast and reliable internet essential. Harry's been telling the podcast how he feels left in the dark-ages.

Also in today's podcast, people living in shared ownership flats in Tunbridge Wells have been told they'll have to pay thousands of pounds for safety work on their balconies.

Residents of the Town and Country Housing properties in Greggs Wood Road claim there's been a lack of consultation over contractors, and only one quote.

The MP for Tunbridge Wells hopes a new campaign will stop lorries getting stuck in a village high street.

Goudhurst has been used as a cut through for HGVs over the past 15 years, but they often get stuck.

Mike Martin has successfully petitioned Satnav companies to change their data so trucks won't use the route, but one or two still take the risk. He's been telling the podcast how we can all get involved.

Work is due to start this month to replace a bridge on an historic railway line in Kent.

The Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells runs over the Broom Lane Bridge, between High Rocks and Groombridge which has corroded.

Volunteers are raising more than £400,000 for the installation of the replacement and are staging a fundraiser next month.

In sport, Ronan Hale opened his account at Gillingham as they beat Tranmere Rovers.

The January signing scored both goals in the 2-1 victory at Priestfield on Saturday - hear from the striker and manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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She’s been documenting the downfall of the stretch in Hartlip, which has left her out of pocket due to damaged tyres.

Also in today's podcast, a final report into the deaths of at least 27 asylum seekers in the Channel has found the coastguard at Dover had been placed in an "intolerable position". 

Systemic failings have been identified in search and rescue efforts when a small boat overturned in 2021.

One of Kent’s historic waterways has 10 times more bacteria than the River Seine in Paris had when Olympic events were postponed because of pollution.

For years, residents have complained about the smell in Sittingbourne and now research shared with the KentOnline Podcast shows just how bad the water quality really is. 

The boss of a wild cat conservation charity says plans are already underway to rescue a Lynx from war-torn Ukraine.

Ursa was found being kept illegally as a pet and she's currently living in a centre in Kyiv, but £100,000 has been raised to bring her to Kent.

And in football, they Gillingham boss is expecting this weekend’s visitors to Priestfield to be tough opposition. 

The Gills are looking to regain some form with recent defeats leaving them 14th in the table – you can hear from Gareth Ainsworth ahead of kick off tomorrow. 

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Just over half of people say they've experienced it, in a survey of nearly 5,500 residents.

The most common complaints were about rowdy and inconsiderate behaviour, littering and nuisance driving, hear from Kent's police and crime commissioner Matthew Scott.

A young dad from Broadstairs has been left paralysed after his car flipped during a crash near Canterbury.

Steven Gibbons was driving on the A28 in Hersden when he clipped the kerb last May - it was later discovered he'd severed his spinal cord. Our reporter Millie Bowles has been speaking to Steven's family.

We're being told a new 'super-university' confirmed for Kent will provide opportunities for growth and development across the whole county.

Contracts have been exchanged over the merger between Greenwich and Kent.

Bosses in Medway have announced plans to increase council tax by the maximum amount allowed, in a bid to balance the books.

If approved, an average Band D home in the Towns will pay an extra £110 a year.

Leisure centre fees are also expected to increase.

Firefighters are going to be knocking on doors across Kent from today, to check your smoke alarm is working.

Teams will be covering the county this month to test, relocate or install the devices.

It's the third year the days of action have taken place.

And, a Kent football club is having to fork out thousands of pounds after one of its pitches was vandalised.

The grass has been torn up at Larkfield with pictures showing what appear to be tyre tracks.

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The jealous and paranoid man repeatedly attacked his victim in her Sheppey home after falsely accusing her of cheating on him and carrying another man's child.

Also in today’s podcast, two higher education institutions have merged to form a ‘super university’ in a one-of-its-kind move.

The University of Greenwich and the University of Kent have announced that they have legally committed to the merger between their two institutions – we’ll unpack what all this means. 

It's hoped access to new digital patient records will help address inequalities in mental health care across Kent.

Key information about autistic patients or those with learning disabilities can now be stored and accessed at later appointments and by other care providers. 

A major project to bring an historic theatre building in Medway back to life is on time and budget.

21 million pounds is being spent on the Brook in Chatham and we’ve spoken to a local councillor about now the project is progressing. 

And in football, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth admitted their defensive blunder in last night’s game was a killer.

Notts County beat the Gills 1-0 thanks to a goal in the opening half – you can hear from the boss and from defender Robbie McKenzie. 

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The 22-year-old is being awarded more than £4,000 after a judge found those running the Thomas Becket pub in Canterbury withheld her pay packet.

Also in today’s podcast, the leader of Kent County Council has written to the Home Office to ask for more funding for young asylum-seeking adults who have left care.

KCC currently receives no government support for people the authority continues to look after for four years once they have reached the age of 21.

The owners of the UK’s most famous scenic railway have been challenged to justify their decision to close the ride before a panel of councillors.

Dreamland announced last Tuesday that it was closing the century-old ride at the amusement park in Margate – you can hear from the Mayor of the town who wants them to appear before a scrutiny panel. 

Villagers have raised concerns about plans for a new housing estate saying they’re coming “under attack”. 

It’s after plans were put forward for the properties at Mountain Farm in Hamstreet. 

And in football, you can hear from Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth who is ready to make changes when they return to action this evening.

The Gills visit Notts County on the back of a 4-1 humbling by leaders Bromley at Priestfield on Saturday.

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Lou Wicks was attacked by an intoxicated man as she and her colleagues tried to restrain him in the emergency department of Maidstone Hospital.

Also in today’s podcast, a young man allegedly murdered on his 25th birthday has been described as a “beloved son” whose “memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him”.

Robert Else was discovered with injuries consistent with stab wounds at a house in Eythorne last Thursday – one man has been arrested and charged. 

A family from Snodland say all their possessions and memories have been lost, after a devastating fire at their home.

The blaze broke out in the property on Gassons Road a week ago – you can hear from dad Adam who says they’ve had to throw everything away even their son’s toys. 

Campaigners near Gravesend say it's vital a stretch of greenbelt isn't lost to housing - as plans emerge for a new estate.

Developers say they want to build 154 properties on agricultural land in Istead Rise – so far, more than 1,300 people have objected. 

And in football, Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth admitted he let rip at half-time after a first-half horror show against Bromley on Saturday.

He was fuming with his side’s poor defending as the League 2 leaders raced into a 3-0 lead within 28 minutes at Priestfield before going on to complete a 4-1 victory.

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Police were called to reports of a stabbing in Rose Gardens in Eythorne yesterday morning and a man in his 60s who knew the victim has been arrested. Hear from our reporter who has been at the scene.

Also in today's podcast, business owners in Dover say the town's reputation is still suffering, 10 years after an immigration protest turned into a riot.

Stones, bottles and bricks were thrown when far-right activists clashed with counter-demonstrators on this day in 2016.

Our reporter Sam Lennon has been in the town to speak to people about their memories of the day and the lasting impact they think it has had.

The Mayor of Margate is calling for Dreamland bosses to appear before a scrutiny committee after they decided to permanently close the Scenic Railway.

It's the oldest rollercoaster in the UK - and the fourth oldest in the world.

Reporter Gerry Warren has also been catching up with a man who used to work on the famous ride.

In sport, it's a big game for Gillingham this weekend as the league leaders head to Priestfield.

Bromley are six points clear at the top while the Gills are looking to make it three wins in a row after rediscovering some form.

And, money is being made available to young people in Medway to help them get more involved in sport.

Grants of £100 are going to be handed out to help them buy kit or equipment.

It's the brain child of the Laurence Plummer foundation which was set up to support underprivileged children in the Town's.

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From April, customers of under-fire South East Water will have to pay £21 more following a 7% hike.

The town's MP says residents are 'paying the price for years of underinvestment', while the company say it'll fund improvements including a new reservoir. We've got reaction from the chief executive of the business improvement district in Tunbridge Wells.

Also in today's podcast, a Sheppey family fear their son won't have a suitable school place in September, after education bosses refused to assess his special needs.

Raie was diagnosed with autism when he was three, and his parents want him to get an education, health and care plan before he leaves Queenborough nursery. Hear from mum Natalie Jacobs who has been speaking to reporter Joe Crossley.

The KentOnline Podcast has been told the probation service covering Kent is still significantly understaffed, but improvements are starting to be made in keeping the public safe.

Inspectors have been looking at how inmates are dealt with after they leave jail - for the first time since a damning report in 2024. Hear from Martin Jones who is the chief inspector of probation.

A Kent MP has been been telling us how important it is for everyone to eat more locally produced food in 2026.

Sir Roger Gale, who represents Herne Bay and Sandwich, says crucial farmland is being lost to housing.

And in sport, Gillingham have finally completed a deal to sign international striker Ronan Hale.

The 27-year-old is joining for an undisclosed fee from Scottish Championship side Ross County.

He's previously played for Northern Ireland and scored 18 goals for his club last season.

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Britain’s oldest rollercoaster at the Margate attraction will no longer operate as a ride, with park bosses confirming they are looking for new ways it can be used.

Also in today’s podcast, thousands of pounds have been raised for the family of a much-loved dad-of-four who died on a construction site.

Tributes have been paid to popular footballer and coach Joe Heath, from Folkestone, described by his wife as a “caring, bubbly and absolute gem of a person”.

A heartbroken mum is backing calls to change the law around reporting collisions with cats after her beloved family pet was killed in a hit-and-run.

At present motorists who hit dogs and certain farm animals, such as horses and cattle, must stop and report it as an accident under the Road Traffic Act 1988 – but cats are not included. 

Local campaigners say they're happy government is finally listening to their concerns about the dangers of domestic wood burning. 

A public consultation has been announced and will look at things like stricter emissions guidelines on new stoves and introducing mandatory labels.

And you can hear from the MP for Gravesham who says her fight to reinstate the Gravesend to Tilbury ferry will continue in 2026. 

The passenger service made as many as 100-thousand trips a year until it was scrapped in 2024 due to a lack of funding. 

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Gareth Tyrrell, a familiar and popular face across Ashford, ran the Park Mall complex for 15 years, where he was known for stopping to chat with traders and shoppers.

Also in today’s podcast, a campaign group in Tunbridge Wells say they're determined to make sure the town's recent water issues stay on the agenda. 

Tens of thousands of homes and businesses were without water in major outages in recent months – last night bosses from South East Water declined to attend a council scrutiny meeting. 

There are calls from a Kent MP for the government to do more to help young people into work. 

Helen Whately told the commons there are nearly one million young people are not in education, work or training and 700,000 university graduates are on benefits. 

Figures seen by the KentOnline Podcast show one town is facing a shortfall of 1,765 secondary school places by 2033.

But while most new housing developers in Maidstone are being asked to contribute towards the cost of expanding school capacity to meet the demand, at least one site of 272 homes doesn’t have to pay a thing.

And a 16-year-old skateboarder is raising funds to set up a 14-foot ramp at his local park help him achieve his Olympic dreams.

The teen already competes across the world and has hopes of kickflipping his way to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

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People living near Sandown Castle Community Garden say it's led to rubbish, including gas canisters, being dumped near their properties.

Hear from our reporter Louis Walker who has been covering the story.

Also in today's podcast, a Kent woman says she's 'lost all faith in the NHS' after being diagnosed with an incurable cancer.

Victoria Rodwell from East Malling first went to her GP with throat issues 16 months ago. She's been speaking to reporter Davina Jethwa.

A Dartford man is starting a campaign to have defibrillators in all schools and colleges after managing to save his wife's life.

Suzanne Cutler suffered a cardiac arrest while travelling home from a family celebration with her husband and daughter.

Pupils at a Kent school who have been taking part in a smartphone detox, have told the podcast they would support a ban on social media for under 16s.

The government is consulting on the idea of introducing restrictions similar to Australia.

A couple who run escape rooms in Chatham have expanded to a third site in the county.

Rob and Nikki Kimber set up Hysteria Games eight years ago after visiting a similar venue in London on a date.

The new venture is based in a unit in Sittingbourne - our reporter Joe Crossley has been along to get a sneak peak.

Football, and Gillingham have made it back-to-back wins in league two.

They beat Harrogate Town 3-0 away from home on Saturday, following a victory over Newport County the previous weekend.

Hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth and goal scorer Conor Masterson.

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It is well over five years since the first families moved into The Meadows development in Staplehurst but they are still living with unfinished roads, crumbling pavements and a children’s play area that has never opened.

Also in today’s podcast, officers searching a property in Maidstone have found a drug dealer hiding in his garden shed. 

Police were called to reports of a disturbance but found cocaine, cannabis and cash – we’re got audio of the moment he was arrested. 

There’s community anger over a crucial cut-through road which has been shut 22 times in the past two years.

The road in Sissinghurst, which is little over half a mile long, has been closed for a variety of roadworks but half were related to South East Water.

A Kent veteran who became the first double above the knee amputee to climb Mt Everest says there's more work to do to reduce the stigma around disability. 

Former Gurkha Hari Budha Magar, from Canterbury, has just returned from his latest challenge of climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents. 

And in football you can hear from the Gillingham manager ahead of this weekend’s away fixture at Harrogate Town. 

Gareth Ainsworth says they’ll be looking for gain momentum following last week’s dramatic victory over Newport County. 

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The glass-fronted enclosure outside A La Turka in Herne Bay was put up in 2019, despite there only being planning permission for awnings.

Also in today’s podcast, a public meeting's been held in Tunbridge Wells to discuss the recent water crisis.

Around 100 people showed up last night to express their frustrations following a number of outages before and after Christmas.

Controversial plans for a solar farm have been approved - despite residents warning it will despoil a “historic, rural agricultural landscape”.

Covering 40 hectares - roughly the size of 55 football pitches - the site on Romney Marsh is currently used to grow crops.

A sports and social club with more than 650 members will close at the end of the month.

The facility in Maidstone is set to shut following a “difficult decision” by the organisation that runs it to cease its affiliation.

And a school with pupils from more than 80 nationalities has launched a community campaign to celebrate togetherness and belonging.  

Ashford’s John Wallis Academy has put up flags, banners and posters around its grounds – you can hear from their Head who says it’s come at a time when we know the world is increasingly divided.

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Police were called to the restaurant in Tunbridge Wells after a man went inside and lay down on the floor, before smashing up screens and equipment. 

Also in today’s podcast, a group of doctors are calling for better resilience within NHS IT systems after a major outage affected GP surgeries across Kent.

Medics were unable to access patient details, appointment lists or process prescriptions on Monday and health bosses say it’s led to a huge backlog. 

A councillor who struggles to speak after developing motor neurone disease is using pioneering AI technology to communicate using his own voice.

Nick Varley, who represents Kippington on Sevenoaks district and town councils, made recordings of himself speaking, which were used to train the AI to produce an accurate copy of his voice.

Protesters held a large banner demanding “Keep your hands off Rays Bottom” as they voiced their anger over plans for a new housing estate.

More than 300 letters of objection have been lodged in little over a month against proposals to build 75 houses on farmland near Deal.

And an ice cream man who “gambled” on serving scoops when work dried up during the pandemic is in the running for a top national award. 

You can hear from the Rainham resident who runs Bossie’s Ice Creams’ who told us he’s excited to have his hard work recognised. 

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Tia Jennings was at Bierkeller on Gabriel's Hill on January 10th when she started acting out of character - she then collapsed outside a short time later. We've asked the venue a number of times for a comment.

Also in today's podcast, the mother of a teenager killed in a crash in Thanet says the number of people caught over the limit during a crackdown last month is 'shocking'.

18-year-old Ethan Entwhistle was a passenger in a car that hit a tree in Broadstairs in October 2023 - the driver was more than twice the drink drive limit.

Police stopped around 300 motorists for drink and drug driving offences in the county in December.

Families in Kent are being asked to share their experience of maternity and neonatal care for a major national review.

The 'Call for Evidence' will be used to shape recommendations to improve services across England - hear from Zoe Finn who lost her son Carter when his heart stopped beating while she was 35 weeks pregnant.

The MP for Ashford has signed an open letter to the Prime Minister calling for a ban on social media use for people under the age of 16.

Sojan Joseph is the only Kent MP to put his name to the letter and joined 60 others from across the country.

Campaigners from Kent are due at the High Court as a legal challenge against plans for a second runway at Gatwick Airport gets under way.

It's after the transport secretary gave approval last September for the airport to bring its Northern runway into regular use as part of a 2-point £2 billion expansion.

In sport, Lenni Cirino has signed a contract extension with Gillingham. The new deal keeps the left-back at the club until the end of this season.

And, find out who Chatham Town's women will be playing the fifth round of the FA Cup.

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Police were called to Noreen Avenue in Minster on Saturday night, close to a children’s play park, but the victim died at the scene. 

Also in today’s podcast, the number of so-called 'trolley waits' in Kent continues to rise.

That’s when there’s a delay of 12 hours or more from a patient being admitted to being given a bed – new figures show there were over 28,000 last year. 

Parents across Kent are being urged to act as the debate on raising the social media age to 16 is set to continue this week 

A proposed amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, currently before the House of Lords, will be debated in the coming days 

We spoke to a local mental health charity who have launched a campaign to rethink Blue Monday.

North Kent Mind says it doesn't have to be a dark and depressing time and they're urging us to rebrand it "Mulicolour Monday".

And in football, Chatham Town have booked an FA Women’s Cup last-16 spot.

Watched by a bumper crowd of almost 1,700 they beat fellow fourth-tier side York City 3-0 – you can hear from manager Keith Boanas. 

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Syntia Franczak is thought to have been the pillion passenger on the bike that was involved in a collision on the A228 Pembury Northern Bypass on December 20th. Hear from reporter Joe Crossley who has been covering the story.

Also in today's podcast, we've got an update on the water supply issues that have been affecting Kent over the past week.

The taps are flowing again in Tunbridge Wells but not before a calf died of suspected dehydration at a farm.

The Sittingbourne and Sheppey MP is leading calls for the government to treat gambling as a public health emergency.

Kevin McKenna has hosted a debate in Westminster Hall addressing how problem gambling has long lasting and serious impacts on children.

Meantime, the Dartford MP has spoken in the commons about the importance of investment in grassroots sports facilities.

An entrepreneur is about to embark on a new venture - opening the first Caribbean takeaway restaurant in Maidstone.

Mitchell Bennett has spent the last 15 years as a music promoter presenting Garage National events at venues across the town.

And in sport, bottom of the table Newport County are the visitors to Priestfield this weekend.

Gillingham have gone two weeks without a game after their match with Notts County was postponed because of a frozen pitch, hear from manager Gareth Ainsworth.

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The Folkestone-based PC would have faced dismissal this week had he not already resigned after his lurid actions.

Also in today’s podcast, Ofwat has announced it has opened an investigation into South East Water following the major water outage in Kent.

It comes as thousands of homes and businesses across the county continue to be left without supplies – we’ve spoken to a farmer who’s criticised a lack of provision for livestock. 

Utility companies who flout the rules while carrying out road works are in danger of being prosecuted. 

Kent County Council hopes that its get-tough policy will mean highways will be safer, flow more freely and force contractors to speed up the work.

A town’s mayor has lashed out at people who have repeatedly vandalised a toddlers’ playground – saying “it needs to stop”. 

The site in Sevenoaks has seen a spate of attacks costing the local authority time and money. 

And a defiant Canterbury man is threatening to chain himself to a historic lamppost if council bosses attempt to tear it down.

He says the Victorian structures are “precious” features that must be “preserved at all costs” rather than being replaced with “grotesque” modern replicas.

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However some education experts warn a legacy of Covid means the latest league table isn’t the “fairest” measure of performance. 

Also in today’s podcast, a man has died in a crash involving a car and a water tanker.

The motorist was travelling on the A2070 Ashford Road in Hamstreet yesterday afternoon when it collided with a purple tanker heading the opposite way.

Pressure is piling on the boss of South East Water with more local leaders calling for his resignation following water supply outages. 

Thousands of properties and businesses have been affected and several schools around the county are closed again today.

Hopes of saving a town’s library building have been dealt a fresh blow - and the site may proceed to an auction sale next month.

But the deputy leader of Reform UK-run Kent County Council says the “door remains fully open” for alternative proposals for the site at Grace Hill in Folkestone – community groups have been campaigning for it to be saved. 

And a new support group has been set up in Kent for bereaved parents, by a nurse who lost her own son 

You can hear from Amber Selvey, whose son died from a rare genetic condition in 2023 - she's now launched Together in Grief based in Whitstable. 

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More and more students are being pulled out of the classroom as shock new statistics reveal a significant rise in under-18s being treated for addiction problems — including use of cannabis, ketamine, cocaine, ecstasy. 

Also in today’s podcast, schools are closed again today and thousands of residents are still without supplies as the Kent water crisis continues.

South East Water confirmed 25,000 customers still have issues including in Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, and Whitstable following a breakout of leaks and bursts across their network.

Bosses have declared a critical incident at a hospital due to a sudden “high demand” for its services.

East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust made the announcement due to sustained pressures at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate.

An historic former library described as a town’s “most treasured community asset” is set to be auctioned off by Kent County Council sparking fury among residents.

The site in Folkestone has been closed since 2022 because of flood damage - with the authority expected to make a decision to sell it today. 

And money is on offer to independent business in Maidstone to improve their shopfronts. 

It's part of council plans to make the town centre more appealing and draw shoppers away from the online market. 

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Homes and businesses in areas including Tunbridge Wells, Maidstone and Canterbury have been affected. Hear from a Pembury resident who didn't have water over the weekend.

Also in today's podcast, bosses in Medway could be pushed into using exceptional financial support from the government after their funding increase wasn't as big as expected.

Under the new Fair Funding Settlement, the council anticipated a significant increase, but the provisional one still leaves a shortfall of almost £8 million.

A mum from Tunbridge Wells whose son has Spinal Muscular Atrophy is backing calls from Jesy Nelson for earlier screening.

The Little Mix star's seven-month old twin girls have been diagnosed with the condition - which affects breathing, swallowing and muscle control.

A Kent MP says plans to change the criminal justice system are essential for victims, defendants and the people who work in it.

Most recent stats show a backlog of around 80,000 crown court cases in England. We've been speaking to Chatham and Aylesford's Tris Osborne.

A former Kent soldier has spoken to the podcast for the first time since completing a challenge to climb the seven highest peaks on all seven continents.

Hari Budha Magar lost his legs while serving in Afghanistan and uses specially adapted prosthetics.

And in sport, Chatham Town are through to the fifth round of the FA Trophy.

It's the first time they've reached this stage of the competition and follows a 1-0 victory over National League side Carlisle United.

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People living along Sandgate Esplanade, near Folkestone, woke up to see vehicles strewn across the road - which was flooded and covered in shingle – we’ve spoken to a witness and bosses in charge of the clean-up. 

Also in today’s podcast, there’s been plenty of reaction from the news Kent County Council is proposing increasing council tax by 3.99% in its draft budget.

The authority is recommending a hike of a full 1% below the cap set by the government but there are concerns it could lead to cuts to local services. 

Major plans to redevelop a town centre street into a car-free zone with al fresco dining are finally moving ahead.

The creation of a “cafe culture” in Earl Street, Maidstone, from Week Street down to its junction with Pudding Lane, is a long-held ambition of the local authority.

A campaign's underway to recycle hundreds of Christmas trees in Kent - while raising money for charity.

Heart of Kent Hospice in Aylesford picked up almost 700 trees last year and this year they’re hoping to make it 1000. 

And England rugby player Rosie Galligan will be hoping to inspire the next generation when she returns to Kent this weekend. 

The 27-year-old, who's from West Malling, will be taking coaching sessions at Aylesford Rugby Club's recruitment drive 

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Firefighters were called to battle the on-fire Volkswagen in the residents' car park outside the Litmus House flat block off Vellum Drive in the early hours of Monday morning. 

Also in today’s podcast, a man accused of repeatedly stabbing a uniformed British Army officer in the street has pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted murder.

Appearing at Maidstone Crown Court via video link from high security psychiatric hospital, he admitted trying to kill Lt Col Mark Teeton near Brompton Barracks on July 23, 2024.

A yellow weather warning for wind has been issued as Storm Goretti is set to batter areas of the Kent coast.

The Met Office says gusts in exposed areas could reach 70 mph, with the caution covering seaside towns in the south of the county. 

You can hear from a young mum who says writing about her husband’s death made her go back to therapy, but also forced her to face the worst moments of her life.

Emma Charlesworthdidn't want her partner to become just “another statistic” and hopes her new book will bring comfort to those who have been widowed young. 

And a 30th birthday party's being thrown for Ashford International Station - as a campaign to bring it back into use continues.

The facility opened on this day in 1996 - the same year Legoland also welcomed visitors for the first time.

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Footage at KentOnline shows the Veolia staff removing a mattress and personal items from outside the Boots store in the town centre. Hear from reporter Millie Bowles who has been covering the story.

Also in today's podcast, people living in Tunbridge Wells woke up to another day of water issues earlier. South East Water say a series of bursts at one of their sites was to blame.

It comes after boss David Hinton faced MP's yesterday over an outage that left customers without supplies for two weeks in the lead up to Christmas. He has faced further calls to resign from local MP Mike Martin.

There are suggestions the Port of Ramsgate could open up again, to help relieve pressure on Kent's roads.

Plans are reportedly under consideration as part of the preparations to reopen Manston Airport for freight. But, this comes as Thanet District Council are looking to reduce the amount of money they have to invest to keep the facilities in working condition.

A hard hitting play written in Kent about young people and mobile phones is being performed in parliament.

Generation FOMO is based on interviews and conversations with students at schools and at the Uni of Kent.

A new event space has opened up in Folkestone, taking over a site that's been abandoned for the last 50 years.

The Loft is situated on the upper floor of the Petticoat Emporium which opened it June last year but the building had previously been home to M&S and Wilko.

And finally, the KentOnline Podcast has been hearing how Kent's only greyhound racing track has managed to survive when so many others have shut down.

Central Park in Sittingbourne has been running dog races since 1994.

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He has four venues across Canterbury and says he will have to cough up an extra £64,000 annually to cover increased costs.

Also in today’s podcast, police have confirmed a 17-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl were killed when a blue Ford Fiesta left the road in Iwade. 

We've spoken to someone who works nearby to where the crash happened on Saturday night. 

The boss of a water company which left 24,000 homes and businesses without drinking water over a two-week period has faced MPs in Parliament today.

South East Water boss David Hinton has given himself a  mark out of ten for how he handled the Tunbridge Wells water outage before Christmas.

A woman who nearly died from anorexia but was pulled back from the brink has written a book and started a podcast to try to help others.

Things were so bad for Annie O’Quigley that her partner threatened to leave her as he “couldn't watch someone die” in front of him.

And you can hear from the Ashford MP who says bringing international trains back to the town remains his “top priority” in 2026.

Sojan Joseph, who was elected last year, says restarting services in Ashford would benefit the town in a “big way”.

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Documents show almost 5,000 people are owed around £160,000 pounds following the collapse of Huh. Ltd.

Also in today's episode, it's feared bird flu could be continuing to spread in Kent as more cases of dead swans are reported.

In the latest distressing video a bird can be seen refusing to leave the side of its dead partner. More than 50 swans are now understood to have died in Canterbury and Thanet.

We've been asking Kent's MPs what their priorities are for the new year, and Jim Dickson has told us he's hoping 2026 is the year catapults are reclassified as an offensive weapon.

The Dartford rep says he's spoken to the Home Office minister, and a round table discussion is due to get underway in the next few months.

Meantime, for Tunbridge Wells rep Mike Martin - his main focus will be on housebuilding, to take the pressure off the housing and rental markets.

It comes as the borough council has approved it's Local Plan, which will see around 600 new homes built each year until 2038.

A new programme's been launched to support long-term unemployed adults in Ashford.

Upcycle Your Skills looks to help people boost their confidence and access local job opportunities.

The scheme is being run by CXK with support from Ashford Borough Council and SUEZ.

We've been hearing from some of those who were recognised in the King's New Year honours over the festive break.

Hear from the boss of a west Kent charity and also a man who started his first business when he was just 11.

And finally, a group of dancers from a small village in Medway will be representing England at the 2026 Dance World Cup.

The Performance Hub is a studio in Cliffe which is new to competing - but they've reached the finals of the international dance event on their first attempt.

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Lola, Arlo and Noah Micallef appear in the latest music video by The Florin Street Band, after their mum posted a video of them singing one of the band’s Christmas hits. 

Also in today’s podcast, there are calls for Royal Mail to improve its service after people living near Folkestone say they're only receiving letters every couple of weeks - often in large batches.

Residents say important post such as driving documents, medical letters and bills is regularly delivered late.

You can hear from a mum from Folkestone who’s joined a campaign to give children a smartphone free Christmas. 

Billboards have been put up across Kent encouraging parents to delay giving their children devices as long as possible.

Work on a £41 million relief road will finally begin next month – bringing with it 13 weeks of lane closures on a busy route.

The long-awaited Sturry Link Road will connect the A291 Sturry Hill to the A28 Sturry Road, bypassing the village’s level crossing in a bid to ease congestion.

And in football, Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth is predicting their Boxing Day showdown with old boss Neil Harris could be a great occasion.

Harris brings his in-form Cambridge United side to Priestfield for the festive League Two clash, sitting four points better off than the club who sacked him just over two years ago.

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The single mother of three, who claims benefits, had hired a caravan to celebrate her eldest daughter’s special day but had no money left for party food. 

Also in today’s podcast, new technology has been rolled out across Maidstone in a bid to crack down on fly-tipping.

Drones are helping council officers detect illegally dumped waste within minutes - a job that usually could take hours.

Residents say it is “ridiculous” plans to turn a family home in a terraced street into a six-bedroom house of multiple occupation have been approved.

The change of use application for the property in Strood was submitted to Medway Council earlier this year.

The boss of a Kent music venue says he's hoping to buck the trend by opening a second site in the county.

The team behind the Booking Hall in Dover are currently working on renovating what used to be the Life nightclub on Sittingbourne High Street.

And we’ve been hearing how a team of therapy dogs have been spreading some Christmas cheer in Kent.

The animals have been going round to hospital wards as part of a Medway Maritime initiative.

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The 61-year-old says she was treated “appallingly” at the William Harvey in Ashford after being taken to the busy A&E via ambulance.

Also in today’s podcast, a landlord has smeared white paint over CCTV cameras around his pub causing more than £6,000 worth of damage. 

He used rollers to cover the lenses as well as sensors on car park barriers and says he was trying to protect the privacy of his customers. 

A charity helping women on probation to rebuild their lives has opened a new centre in Kent.

Many of those who use Advance are victims of domestic abuse, caught in the criminal justice system as a result of some kind of trauma.

Dozens of pharmacy customers, including many Blue Badge holders, have been fined for parking at the entrance to an industrial estate while collecting their medication.

For decades, visitors have been stopping on the double yellow lines at the entrance to the London Road industrial estate in Sittingbourne while grabbing their prescriptions but they’ve suddenly started receiving fines. 

And in football, the Gillingham manager says unacceptable defensive mistakes and missed chances led to defeat at Fleetwood on Saturday.

You can hear from Gareth Ainsworth, as well as midfielder Armani Little, following the 2 -1 loss. 

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