Pledge to replace elderly support
Report by Kathy Bailes
DAY care and respite services WILL be replaced if Cornfields residential home for the elderly is demolished so independent living flats can be built on the site, Kent County Council officers have promised. The vow was made during an unscheduled meeting, following the presentation to county councillor Bryan Cope of a 1,816-signature petition and 700 protest letters objecting to the authority's plans to flatten the care home in Cranleigh Drive, Whitfield, to make way for 40 flats for people aged 55 and over. The plans are part of a wider bid by KCC to overhaul care for the elderly across the county and save some £2 million a year by making massive changes to 11 of the 16 care homes it runs in Kent. A consultation on the proposals runs until November 1. A final decision is expected in January 2011. The changes will hit Cornfields in Dover, Sampson Court in Deal and Wayfarers in Sandwich. More than 140 staff face losing their jobs and 50 permanent residents at the three homes will be affected. The six remaining at Cornfields will have to move. The petition and letters were handed to Cllr Cope by Whit- field parish councillor Brenda Bowman, district councillor Clive Meredith and some of the staff from Cornfields. KCC officers Jenny Olpin and Brenda Channon were present after Cllr Cope invited them to discuss concerns with the group. The pair said work on a new commissioning strategy is taking place now to look at how respite and day care will be provided. Local support manager Mrs Channon said the authority is looking to find 30 day care places and is also looking for respite beds in the district which are "running at low capacity". She said: "We buy respite in the private sector. At the moment we are scoping all the beds and looking at the private sector and what facilities they have got. We have got some big companies moving in and there is a lot of work going on in Thanet and Dover. We are looking at what we can do with day care. "Once the mapping of facilities is done, if there is not enough we will meet providers and see how we can develop more. This is not just about now, it is about future facilities." Mrs Channon added: "The commissioning strategy will go to (Councillor) Graham Gibbens. If there is not enough provision, then the decision will be influenced by that." Promises were made to revisit the six remaining permanent residents at Cornfields after one staff member told them: "They are frightened they are going to be homeless. They are panicking and trying to find somewhere else." Cllr Bowman said: "It is felt that the wishes of residents, neighbours, the public and carers is being ignored. "Cornfields is due, possibly, to be demolished and rebuilt but there are lots of concerns about the type of care which will be lost if this happens. "The main areas of concern are day care and respite care. "This petition is saying we have concerns and we want you to look at them before making any decisions." Cllr Meredith added: "Day care and respite care are of major importance. It is just not clear what is going to happen to those services." The petition and letters are due to be given to Cllr Gibbens, who is the county portfolio holder for adult social services, this week. The Cornfields campaigners will also meet Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke tomorrow (Friday).
'Charismatic' town council clerk to retire
A "ROLLERCOASTER" ride overseeing the business of Dover Town Council will come to an end for town clerk Mike Webb next year. The charismatic figurehead will hang up his wig and robes in March after almost six years of advising councillors and making sure the cogs of the authority have turned smoothly. Mike, 64, took up the post in 2005, leaving behind his role as Dover Town Centre Management (DTCM) boss, where he teamed up with the Express to launch projects such as River Watch, the Loyalty Scheme and Shop Watch – which has now been rolled out across the country. Despite successfully signing up more than 150 businesses to DTCM the former Dover grammar pupil decided it was time to plump for something new. He said: "I was attracted to the town clerk position as the power base is here. The town council is important for the people of Dover and it needs to be strong. The other attraction was I love the history behind it, such as the mayor-making ceremony which I am involved in. "When I put on the wig and robes I am conscious of 1,000 years of history. There is also the work with the Lord Warden and, last year, having our mayor installed as the Speaker of the Confederation of Cinque Ports." Even with a background of a diploma in international business law and accountancy, owning a business which specialised in management and language training, working with huge firms like Eurotunnel and SeaFrance, lecturing in universities across France and being a qualified linguist and teacher, Mike still had to learn the intricacies of town council business on the job. He said: "What did I know about planning issues or what being quorate (having enough councillors present to hold a council meeting and make decisions) means? I attended every committee meeting, here and at other councils, for six months. It was the most rapid training period I have ever done." Among the achievements of the town council in which Mike has had a hand is the creation of "community involvement," which he regards as a highlight. He said: "I am very pleased to have assisted the council in one of its biggest areas, community involvement. This council bought High Meadow to stop inappropriate development and now we have the Konik ponies and the wildlife park. We have supported local groups and the tremendous work they do. "These are things we could not have achieved without volunteers, who are the backbone of this town. "I am proud of the war memorial which the town council took over from the district council and now it looks great. Our Remembrance Sunday service is more successful each year. We get huge crowds, have close links with the Royal British Legion, and it is an honour to play an official role in what is a very emotional experience." The creation of a "people's port" which will enable the community to take ownership of Dover's biggest asset is one project Mike hopes to see complete before he leaves. He said: "This is the biggest thing which the town council is involved in working on at the moment. We want to maximise the benefits for Dover. One of the things that really enthuses me is working for a council that is fighting for what is best for Dover. It provided the forum for the public on this issue with the recent extraordinary meeting, showing its forward-looking approach. "Being town clerk has been extremely interesting. No two days are the same and it has been a rollercoaster ride. If I leave it better than it was when I arrived then I would say that is mission accomplished." Once he steps down, Mike and wife Carole plan to spend more time with their four daughters and grandchildren. Mike also plans to give lectures on language and humour aboard cruise ships twice a year while Carole teaches belly dancing and keep fit.
Area's pub and club crime figures revealed
VIOLENCE, criminal damage, theft, sexual offences and burglary were just some of the crimes that took place in the Dover district's bars and nightclubs over a 13-month period. Figures obtained by the Express under the Freedom of Information Act show that between July 1, 2009 and July 31, 2010, 60 crimes were recorded by police. By far the most prevalent were violence against people (32), theft offences (14) and criminal damage (7). There were three robberies, two sexual offences and one incident of a bicycle being stolen. Kent Police's Dover District Commander Ken Elmes said the figures represented "good news" for residents. He said: "My reasons for saying that is that this dates over a 13-month period, particularly when you think there are over 450 pubs and nightclubs in the Dover district, and of those approximately 400 are under new licensing laws so now stay open past 11pm. "I look at those figures and say that's good news for the community in the district. It shows we are working very hard with our partners and the licensees." Just over 50 per cent of crimes were recorded as 'undetected', potentially pointing to the police not being able to solve a significant number of cases. But Chief Inspector Elmes said the figures do not explain the exact situation encountered by officers. He said: "Of the 15 that were undetected violence against the person crimes; I have not looked through those, but I can give you from my experience as to what can tend to happen. "For example, a couple will go out for the evening, have an argument and domestic abuse takes place in those premises. Once they sober up, the victim says I don't wish to support a prosecution and doesn't wish to provide us with evidence. We're then restricted in what we can do. "We have set up our domestic abuse forum, drop-in centre and domestic abuse workers so we are providing a greater service to victims of domestic abuse. We call it abuse rather than violence because it can be mental." Where CCTV evidence or witnesses are available, the police will take action, even in the absence of the victim's cooperation, Ch Insp Elmes said. People, he continued, can help themselves to reduce the theft of their belongings in bars and clubs by not leaving them unattended. He said: "People need to be as carefully guarded with their property in licensed premises as they are in the open air. "The Dover district is a safe district, one of the safest in Kent." Kent Police works closely with the Dover District Community Safety Partnership (DDCSP) and the Dover Partnership Against Crime (DPAC), which runs a Three Strikes scheme – where people can be served antisocial behaviour orders if they commit a trio of drink-related offences. DDCSP chairman Nadeem Aziz said: "The Community Safety Partnership is working hard with a range of agencies to make sure the district remains a safe place to live, work and visit."
House-build plans raise fears for pub
RESIDENTS in Lydden are on a mission to save their village pub, fearing development on part of the grounds will mean its closure.
Last month Dover council granted permission for four houses, access and car parking changes to be built on land at the rear of the Hope Inn. But the proposal by land owner Martin Richards will entail part of the pub being demolished, car parking spaces cut from 30 to 12, and loss of garden space and the popular skittles alley.
Furious landlady Elaine Smetham says she has ploughed £15,000 into the business since taking it over in January and had hoped to extend her tenancy for another three years when it ends in November, but now fears the proposal will shut her down.
The mum-of-three, 49, said: "It will mean knocking my pub down. The plans are to knock down the side extension but this is not a residential extension, it is business. It means the bar, pool table, darts and toilets will go. My 28-seat restaurant will also be affected.
"This was a failing business last year but now it is on the up. It has grown. It is not just a pub, I have the restaurant, camping, and bed and breakfast. And I employ three local people. If my pub is knocked down it will be the end of all that."
The planning permission was granted at a Dover District Council meeting on August 19 despite objections from Lydden Parish Council and a number of villagers who attended the committee hearing.
In a report to councillors, planning officer Sarah Platts acknowledged the scheme proposes "demolition of the single-storey pub building," but added "none of the matters raised are considered to override the conclusion that permission may be granted."
Parish councillor Ben King said: "The Hope Inn is our only village amenity.
"If the single-storey extension is demolished I don't see how the pub can remain viable."
He confirmed the parish council is to appeal against the decision.
Regular Bryan Merry, 37, is one of those opposed to the development. The Kent Top Travel bus driver said: "It is important to us to keep the Hope Inn as it is. It is the only place in Lydden where people can meet, there are no village shops and the village hall has no real facilities. This is the hub of the community."
Elaine and villagers are due to meet with Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke tomorrow to discuss fighting the decision. **The Lydden Bell pub, also in the village, is due to reopen on Saturday following a clean up of the premises by the new landlord.
Port of Dover bosses dismiss union Unite's opposition to sale plans
TRADE union opposition to the privatisation of the Port of Dover has been dismissed by harbour bosses. Unite, which has previously clashed with Dover Harbour Board (DHB) over outsourcing of jobs, said last week that the port was too important to the UK economy to be allowed to fall into private hands. The union, which represents millions of workers across the country, also pointed to the well-publicised struggles of the ferry operators as evidence that the financial case for a sell-off does not add up and warned privatisation would "reduce labour standards and wages". Julia Long, national officer for the docks and ferries sector, said: "The proposed privatisation of Dover is against the national interest. It is a disastrous idea and should proceed no further. "The UK is an island nation. We need a first-class sea port like Dover to be in public hands. "There is simply too much at stake to leave the running of this vital link to Europe in the hands of those who will milk this national treasure for profits at the expense of the travelling public and British commerce." Bosses at Harbour House were quick to dismiss the union's arguments, accusing it of failing to "grasp the rationale and driving force" behind the proposed sell-off. A DHB spokesman said: "Unite's statement fails to recognise that the Port of Dover's scheme is a unique opportunity to expand the business, create jobs and prosperity, unite the port with its community and secure the long-term future of a key national asset that will need to expand and grow if it is to remain the jewel in the crown which everyone wishes it to be. "It is entirely for the long-term benefit of UK transport and the UK economy that the privatisation scheme is currently being considered by the Department for Transport." The latest consultation period into the plans, which would lead to the port being privatised and a community trust established, closed last Friday.
Almo views given
COUNCIL tenants and leaseholders in the district have given their opinions about plans to merge housing services with three other authorities. Consultation packs were sent out in June explaining the plan to set up a single management group for housing services across Dover district, Canterbury, Thanet and Shepway. The Arms Length Management Organisation (Almo) will oversee day-to-day services – such as repairs and rent collection, new tenancies, empty properties and taking responsibility for carrying out evictions – for some 18,000 homes. It will also manage refugee housing issues, disability adaptations and recovery of rent arrears. It will be the first in the country to have four authorities sharing a single housing company. Each council will be represented on the board of the Almo. Tenants from the four different council areas will also have a voice. The rest of the board will be made up of independent members. Housing staff currently working for the four councils will transfer to the new organisation but it is predicted there will be up to 32 jobs lost. A report previously made to the East Kent Joint Scrutiny Committee said the posts would go from management roles and back-office staff, although current unfilled vacancies will account for some of these cuts. The scheme will save the four councils £1.5 million in overall housing costs over the first five years. It is planned to reinvest the money into the service. It is hoped further savings will also be made in later years with improved repair contracts and bringing together administrative services. Some 10,000 people across east Kent took part in the consultation, which was carried out through phone surveys and a newsletter questionnaire. In Dover District, the response rate was 52 per cent of tenants and leaseholders. Seventy-one per cent of those said the merged service was a good idea and 72 per cent said they supported the idea of the Almo. A report on the results of the consultation will go to each of the four councils in September and October. In Dover it will be discussed by Cabinet members on Monday. A full council meeting will discuss giving approval to submit an application to the Tenant Services Authority for permission to transfer the management of council housing to the Almo on September 29. Paul Bartlett, project manager, said: "We're really impressed that so many people took the time and effort to take part in this important consultation, which could see a major improvement in the way all four councils manage their council-housing services." The proposals are part of wider plans to merge council services across east Kent.
Axing of LD Lines passage has left port high and dry
THE cross-Channel travel market is a major factor in the local economy and acts as a bellwether for the state of the nation's finances. What has been clear in recent months is that there is a depressed market, with poor freight traffic, too much capacity and unsustainable pricing. The ferry companies in Dover blame Eurotunnel for trying to drive down prices to grab market share. While the economy is stuck in the doldrums, the freight market is unlikely to recover soon, and the tourist traffic is devalued by the competition between all the carriers, it has been assumed that something had to give. The withdrawal of the operator LD Lines from a crowded cross-Channel sector is that "something". It is always a great pity when any ferry company has to pull out, as it inevitably means job losses for local people and less choice for customers. It is also another big blow for the port of Boulogne, which has poured millions of euros into a building a fantastic state-of-the-art "hub port" to accommodate ships of most modern dimensions. The loss of LD Lines is another massive blow for the town, enjoying a revival after the inevitable collapse of SpeedFerries and the scandal of John Paul Airs' promised scheme for a fleet of cutting-edge fast ferries vanishing along with the investors' cash. Boulogne has never really recovered from that mortifyingly embarrassing episode. MEDIA reports lately suggest that the Gurkhas – from which we have a sizeable number of serving and former soldiers living in Folkestone, Dover and Ashford – may be cut from the British Army. One would hope that these are simply reports and amount to little more than speculation. The Tories have backed the Gurkhas in the past, and the Liberal Democrat-backed campaign for their equal rights started right here and ended with actress Joanna Lumley shaming the Labour Government. We would never want to lose out Gurkha presence here. Politically, it would be disastrous for both Coalition parties if they were instrumental in disbanding this historic regiment.
Castle numbers 'good for town'
ENGLISH Heritage has hit back at suggestions that increased visitor numbers at Dover Castle do not benefit the town itself. Last month the Express reported a surge in the number of tourists visiting the historic fortress – but some observers bemoaned the fact many of these people do not actually contribute to the local economy. Dover deputy mayor David Hannent, who runs a business in Castle Street, argued that "many are simply bussed in from elsewhere and never set foot in the town itself". But English Heritage, the body responsible for the castle and several other historic attractions in the district, has responded by claiming that the growth in visitor numbers – up 35 per cent during the period between April and July this year compared to the same months in 2009 – has a beneficial knock-on effect for the whole town. Samantha Lloyd, English Heritage's assistant visitor operations director in south east England, said: "More visitors to the castle mean more jobs for local people, more demand for local suppliers and more visitors staying locally. "Transforming the experience at the castle is just one piece in the jigsaw to transform Dover. "We believe it is an important piece, but we would never recommend that it be the only piece. "Investing in better facilities, a better esplanade and better transport is key, and something we wholeheartedly support. Not least because it works both ways – good news for Dover town is good news for Dover Castle." But Pat Sherratt, chairman of the Friends of Dover Castle, has also expressed his concerns about footfall reaching the town centre. He said a way of transferring visitors from the town to the castle is needed, but dismissed the cable car plan as potentially too expensive. Instead he raised the idea of a lift system to the cliff top from land between the leisure centre and East Cliff. "We are suggesting these as we believe in the current national economic climate the cable car may be difficult to finance," he said. "The lift option is possibly considerably cheaper. The evaluation reports produced an estimated ticket price for using the cable car at £9, and this in itself would possibly affect the number of visitors coming from the castle to the town. "The town desperately needs to benefit from the high footfall at the castle." See Your Views – page 20
Hitler's plan 'uncovered'
SECRET Service files just released reveal the Germans, in their 1940 invasion plans, were to dress Nazi shock troops in Allied uniforms as they tried to capture the port of Dover, which was crucial if they were to win the war. Hitler demanded the capture of Dover on the first day of the invasion for the arrival of mass seaborne landings of back-up troops and tanks. But his generals told him his "first day" demand was impossible. The ruse of dressing German shock troops in Allied uniforms would have been no surprise to the British defenders of Dover because the Nazis had tried the same trick successfully in Holland, Belgium and France. It was in July 1940 that Hitler issued his Directive Number 16 detailing to his generals how his forces were to invade England. Hitler's main aim of his landings, at first scheduled for September 1940, was to secure the harbours and berths at Dover and Folkestone where reinforcements could be landed. Initial landings were to be made by parachutists and seaborne craft along a wide front from Ramsgate to Lyme Regis. But in Kent, the plan was to land crack German divisions between Folkestone and Dungeness. Paratroopers, some 10,000 men of the Seventh Parachute Regiment, were also to be dropped on high ground behind Folkestone. They were to fight their way along the Alkham Valley and through Capel to capture the vital port of Dover where their colleagues in Allied uniforms would already have infiltrated the town and docks. At one stage, there were proposals to drop parachutists and bring in gliders on the high ground behind Dover but that idea was dropped when the Luftwaffe said it would be madness with so many anti-aircraft and barrage balloon defences around Dover. The British, of course, realised the importance of Dover Harbour to the invaders, so senior Dover Harbour Board officials working with the Royal Engineers, were ready to destroy port installations to make them unusable while defending British troops on Dover's Western Heights. Operation Sealion, originally planned for September 15 in 1940, was postponed until September 21 and then put on the back burner. Instead, Hitler invaded Russia.
Open days are a step towards hall revamp
GUIDED tours of Dover Town Hall during the Heritage Open Days event this month will be the first step towards a fundraising campaign to see the 13th-century building refurbished. The hall is included in the open days for the first time this year thanks to efforts by Dover Society chairman Derek Leach, who puts in place arrangements for local properties to be part of the national annual event. He is hoping to pique public interest with the tours before looking at how cash can be raised to give rooms at the rear of the property an overhaul. Mr Leach will be meeting with owners Dover District Council, franchise holders Thanet Leisure Force and Dover mayor Sue Jones on September 8 to discuss the idea. The former customs officer, from Riverdale, said: "I have wanted to get tours at Dover Town Hall for a long time. It needs refurbishment as some of the decorations and the back rooms are looking a bit sad. "The tours are the prelude to refurbishment. I hope they will concentrate minds. Depending on how it goes next summer, I hope there will be tours every week, or month. "It is also time to think about how to get the town hall refurbished. At the meeting, we will need to talk about how we can raise a lot of money as to get a successful Heritage Lottery bid we need to be able to match-fund with local money. "We also need to decide what needs doing, looking at the fabric of the building, such as the roof, and then what needs doing internally." The local historical author says the job will cost "millions rather than thousands" and will probably have to be carried out over the course of a number of years. A bid for lottery funding will not be put in until after the 2012 Olympics, when Mr Leach hopes there will be more money available. He added that if the plan is able to move forward he will seek suggestions and help from local organisations and individuals. The town hall is one of two historical sites joining the Heritage Open days event in Dover on September 11 and 12 for the first time this year. The other is the Roman Painted House. The event sees buildings of architectural heritage open doors to the public for free. Mr Leach, who encourages property owners to take part and fills in the necessary forms for the buildings to go on the English Heritage open days website, said: "It makes local people and visitors more aware of Dover's fantastic heritage. When I started co-ordinating the event six years ago, we had four buildings. Now there are ten." Leaflets are available from the tourist information office, Dover Town Council, Dover Museum and Dover Library. To find out about other buildings open in the region call 020 7539 7921 or visit www.heritageopendays.org
One year into the war, and town sees heaviest raid yet
SEPTEMBER 1940, exactly one year after the outbreak of war, and Dover received its heaviest attack, with bombs and shells falling simultaneously on the town for the first time. Meanwhile the Battle of Britain was being fought overhead. The attack happened on Wednesday, September 11, when heavy damage was caused in the town, 16 people were killed and another 62 injured, some seriously. Why did the enemy mount such a heavy onslaught on Dover that day? The answer was what was going on around the enemy-captured ports of Calais, Boulogne and Dunkirk, where Hitler was making preparations for a sea-borne invasion of England. A large German convoy was seen off the French coast and the enemy was trying to divert attention from it. The German leader had ordered his generals and naval officers to carry out invasion rehearsals and, despite choppy seas, they tried to board heavily armed troops onto barges that were mostly designed for canal work and not for the sea. It was chaos. After the war, those who took part told of craft overturning in the surf, boats crashing into each other and many heavily laden troops falling into the sea, some drowning. Hitler was not impressed and, unknown at the time to the Allies, decided to call off any invasion, at least in 1940. The RAF was gradually winning the fight against the Luftwaffe by early September, although losses were heavy on both sides. The enemy began switching tactics to night bombing while the RAF continued attacking concentrations of enemy invasion barges across the Channel. It was pretty quiet in Dover itself during the first week of September, although there were 18 alerts as German bombers crossed the coast to attack London. One early death in September was that of Gunner Joseph Pittock, whose home was at Capel. He was on his way to hospital when he was struck by shrapnel during a raid on September 4. Bombs fell in the Maxton area on September 7, and the next day Cyril Tozer, 62, of Limekiln Street, was killed while working on his allotment at Aycliffe. On September 8 there was heavy shelling with about 160 missiles fired, many falling into the harbour. But four civilians and a soldier were killed. Five others were injured. The Burlington Hotel, with people living there in flats, suffered its first damage when part of the central tower was demolished. Charlton Mill was also hit, as was a garage in Elms Vale. Then came the heavy attack on September 11, apparently to keep the Allies busy while the Germans carried out their invasion rehearsal. The bulk of the damage to Dover was in the Townwall Street / St James' Street area, where 26 bombs dropped by Dorniers and ten shells fell. Wrecked were The Grand Hotel, the Sailors Home (in Wellesley Road, where the end of The Gateway now stands) and the Sussex Arms in Townwall Street. Three generations of one family died in the bombing of the pub. It was here that Royal Navy stoker George Lowe tunnelled his way through 15 feet of debris to rescue the injured. While doing so he took off his jacket and someone stole his kit. He received the George Medal for his bravery. In his autobiography, published after the war, the late Jack Hewitt claimed it was he who carried out much of the rescue and should have received a medal! One of those killed in the raid was Cllr John Walker, 54, who had earlier received publicity for rejecting government calls for the evacuation of Dover. He was killed tending his boats on the seafront. During the raid the first oil bomb was dropped on the town. It fell in Laurestone Place, setting fire to a house. Another bomb landed in Folkestone Road near The Engineer, but failed to explode. When the authorities tried to remove the bomb it blew up, killing gas company employee Frederick Hayward, 63. The crater covered the width of the road and temporarily isolated Hougham. After this big raid Dover enjoyed a one-day respite before four days of bombing attacks. One bomb hit a trawler alongside the Prince of Wales Pier, killing six crew members. On September 16 Dover was hit by both bombs and shells, but not at the same time. One shell hit the sea bathing baths on the seafront. Sirens wailed virtually every night as German bombers flew over Dover heading for London, and many Dovorians took to sleeping in the deep shelters under the cliffs. Others abandoned the town. The Pilot Office on the seafront was closed and the pilots and staff switched to Gravesend. Six gunners were killed by a mine explosion at Broadlees on September 22, and the same day a British bomber crashed at East Langdon. More bombs were dropped on September 24, but most fell harmlessly in the countryside. On September 26 four shells fell in the Market Square area, killing two and injuring 18 others. Killed were Church Street newsagent Edith Cameron, 62, and James Holman, 20, of Manor Road, who had been married for only two months. The next day a lone enemy plane dived on the town, dropping four bombs, and later in the day came a long spell of shelling. An army officer was injured and died in hospital. The very dangerous month ended with more shelling, with salvoes of three sent over every half hour. One shell, landing in Market Street, killed builders' foreman William Dutnall, 66, of Church Alkham. Later in the day William Grey, 75, of Erith Street was found dead in his garden, killed by the blast of one of the shells. During the month 34 people had been killed and at least 130 injured.
Martin Hayes is a man on a mission after three wins in six days
THREE wins in six days and Martin Hayes walks on water. Only a couple of months into the job, the Dover Athletic manager must have wondered what he'd let himself in for. His signings, his tactics and his substitutions were all under the fiercest of scrutiny on fans' forums, and 'only' drawing the first two home games lined him up for some sharp criticism. But his re-shaped team have done the manager proud in the last week, and Hayes is too experienced in the world of football to have let any criticism get to him, anyway. He said: "At my previous club, the fans hoped for a win, here at Dover the expectations are so very much higher. "And that's fair enough as the club is still at least a level below where it should really be. "I want to do well here for myself, I'm challenging myself to be as good as manager as I can be. "The fans here have had success for a little while and want more. And so do I." Four wins and two draws from the first six league games and Dover are up to third in the Blue Square Bet South table, with runaway leaders Bromley four points clear after an incredible six wins out of six. Christmas and New Year clashes between the clubs from opposite sides of Kent are shaping up to be pretty special. But before that, Whites are at home again this Saturday, to Eastleigh, and face a trip to Essex the following week to play a Braintree side who are also unbeaten and level with them in the league table. Hayes said: "We've set a good standard in our first six games, and kept a clean sheet in each of the last three. "I would have been happy with 14 points out of 18 to start with though it could well have been 18 out of 18. "Our performance on Monday against Thurrock was okay and it was a tough game. "We could have scored four or five if we'd been a bit more clinical with our finishing and then we nearly paid the price for not getting a second goal. "I certainly don't want too many more games like that when we've only got a 1-0 lead – it wasn't a game I could enjoy." Whites now have a fully fit squad to choose from, with Sam Cutler recovered from injury, and following the loan signing from Southend of striker Harry Crawford, they can perm any two from a choice of four up front. That doesn't include former fans favourite Shaun Welford, who has joined Margate. "I'm happy with the squad, and the chance I have to alter things by bringing on quality players from the bench," said Hayes. "And the players have to make the most of every chance they get – you can't give them five or six games to settle in when you're in a situation like this."
Help save last free play area
A RESIDENTS' group looking to buy new play equipment to ensure a Sandwich play area remains open is inviting the public to its next fundraising event. The Friends of Poulders Play Area have organised a coffee morning, cake and book sale at Sandwich Guildhall on Saturday, September 11, from 9.30am to noon. Vice chairman Mirelle Frost urged the public to donate gifts as well as attending. She said it would be "extremely sad" if the play area were to close over a lack of funds. Mrs Frost added: "Poulders Play Area is the last remaining free play space for children in south Sandwich and people may be aware that local residents have petitioned successfully in 2005 and 2009 to prevent it from closure. "We now need to raise in excess of £12,000 to replace the swings and roundabout that have been removed by Dover District Council for safety reasons and more during the next three years to replace the remaining equipment identified for removal and enhance the current provision." The Friends of Poulders Play Area was set up in the wake of the district council's cost-cutting exercise of off-loading some public toilets and "non-strategic" play areas to town and parish councils. Residents from the Poulders Gardens area were further outraged when Sandwich Town Council chose to include only one play area – The Bulwarks – in its 2010/11 budget, so they launched a campaign to keep Poulders open. Stung by the heavy criticism, councillors said they would look favourably at including the play area in their next budget. Mrs Frost said: "We have no problem with the parish council investing in The Bulwarks, but people should remember that there is no other play area this side of Sandwich and it is a vital facility for youngsters. We need people to help us fundraise to prolong the life of the play park." To donate money or a gift to Friends of Poulders Play Area e-mail mirelle.frost@hotmail.com. Cheques should be made payable to Friends of Poulders Play Area and sent to Liz Roberts, 70 Poulders Gardens, Sandwich CT13 0BE
Foodies prepare for battle with French
A GASTRONOMIC battle between Britain and France is set to take place in St Margaret's Bay this weekend. The Coastguard pub, which sits in a picturesque location by the Channel, is hosting a Historical Food Festival celebrating the very best in grub from both sides of the Dover Strait. Getting underway at 10am on Sunday, the event will feature competing foodies from both nations facing off in what the organisers describe as their "little medieval encampment" by the sea. Among those taking part from France will be master cheesemonger Phillipe Olivier, Opal Coast brewer Christophe Noyons and fish smokers JC David of Boulogne. Representing the home nation will be the enigmatically-named Tom the Cheese, brewers from Gadds of Ramsgate and tasty treats from the Weald Smokery. Chef Sam Wydymus, who owns the venue with husband Nigel, said: "All of these guys are specialists in their fields with tons of awards and worldwide following, they are also passionate about their subjects. None could be accused of being shy or retiring. "This really will be France versus England – south coast verses north, knives and glasses drawn and ready." The aim of the festival is to celebrate traditional methods in production of food and drink, something Sam is very passionate about. She is know for producing her own sourdough bread at the pub, a venture inspired during some particularly wintry weather which saw the village snowbound and cut off from the outside world. The food festival has been many months in the making, and Sam admits their could be a some good-natured banter between the two countries. "These doyens of the French and British foodie world have never knowingly been in the same county as one another, let alone a tented village," she said jokingly. "There is every possibility of an international incident not dissimilar to Waterloo taking place." For more information about the Historical Food Festival call the Coastguard pub on 01304 851019.
Dedicated Joy marks 20 years volunteering
A DEDICATED volunteer has toasted 20 years working with the British Heart Foundation. Joy Edwards, 87, has been volunteering at the BHF charity shop in Cannon Street, Dover, since it first opened on June 1, 1990. Despite failing health in later years, kind-hearted Joy has continued to do her bit. Last Friday, staff paid tribute to her loyal service by throwing her a party. Joy, who lives in Shepherdswell, said: "I never thought that when I first started here that I would stay 20 years. But as the mark drew closer, I was determined to achieve it. "I'm very proud to have put in that service. With the help of my daughter and son-in-law, who see that my every need is cared for, I have been able to do it." Joy joined the BHF with late husband Leslie in opportune circumstances. She said: "My husband and I happened to pass by the shop and we saw they were setting it. "My husband asked if we could help and that's how it began. "This shop has given me purpose. Some of the same customers still come in after 20 years. "I have so many cherished memories. "Sadly my health is deteriorating, my eye sight is very bad and I have difficulty walking. I'm waiting to have two operations on my legs. "The shop let's me come in when I can. "If everyone gave a little, you'd get a lot in return. But I don't think I can go on for much longer." Joy said of her party last week: "I was really amazed. It was such a lovely thing to do." Joy married Leslie in 1941. The couple had one daughter. During the war she served in The Wrens and after being demobbed, joined the women's voluntary service. Leslie died last year aged 92.
Bettes are district league champions
BETTESHANGER have clinched their first Dover & District Bowls League championship in 15 years after a close-run title race with Victoria Park from Deal. The Park – champions in 2009 – took Betteshanger all the way to the final game. But the Colliers won it by six points to become champions for the first time this century. TWENTY-FOUR members of River BC took part in the George Scorah Cup target bowls competition, organised by Frank Boxall. Vital for success is the ability to bowl to a variety of jack lengths towards targets on the green with points awarded for landing on the target, hitting the jack or finishing within a yard of the jack. The trophy was presented to the club in memory of George Scorah who devised the competition during his many years with the club. Eventual winner was Brenda Sheather with Nigel Smith the runner up. Prizes were presented by George Scorah's daughter Jeanette Spencer. KEARSNEY'S open mixed pairs competition last weekend was won by Pat Thompson and Muzz Law. Second were Lyn and Stephen Smith, third Joan Dyer and Roger Langley and fourth Ann Goldsmith & John Broom. The event, which has been held since 1965, attracted 32 pairs from Canterbury, Deal, Folkestone, Ashford, Gateway and Thanet, all competing for the Eve Stanley Cup – named after Kearsney's lady president from 1968-1980. Victoria Park Mixed 117 Sellindge Mixed 76 J Dutoit, D Jones, J Lines 8 Sellindge 18; N Luck, J Bruce, P Jones 28 Sellindge 7; J Morgan, L Stevens, C Wall 21 Sellindge 14; J Kitson, A Marsh, M Burn 23 Sellindge11; J Davis, H Marsh, D Bennett 26 Sellindge 11; G Kitson, P Line, S Haynes11 Sellindge 15 Victoria Park (Deal) 85 Dover 52 Victoria Park 19 P Keates, A Booth, P Gretton 22; Victoria Park 27 M Taylor, A Bailey, B Artis 13; Victoria Park 17 D Shrubb, H Funnell, R Taylor 13; Victoria Park 22 J Bolton, J Funnell, P Booth 4 Alexandra (Southend) Mixed 116 Dover Mixed 101 Alexandra 20 J Winter, D Payne, R Brankley, S Sallnow 11; Alexandra 17 J Bolton, A Bailey, J Funnell, P Greenfield 17; Alexandra 29 V Taylor, E Greenfield, J Late, B Taylor 18; Alexandra 13 W Gittins, H Funnell, G Graves, J Cornish 18; Alexandra 15 D Bartelt, E Gibbs, P Simpson, J Hedgecock 21; Alexandra 22 G Brenton, T Jennings, B Late, R Simpson 16 Dover 59 Gateway 51 (Latcham Shield) A Bailey, W Billett, D Scott 24 Gateway 17; S Sallnow, D Russ, J Cornish 9 Gateway 26; B Constable, P Greenfield, B Taylor, 26 Gateway 8 Dover Ladies 27 (2pts) Kearsney Ladies (32pts) (Dover & District Ladies League) T Jennings, C Shrubb, J Smith 16 Kearsney 7; J Constable, A Booth, D Blackman 11 Kearsney 25 Dover BC club competitions – Men's Veterans: S Sallnow 21 P Smith 15; J Cornish 19 B Taylor 21 Men's Pairs: P Smith/W Billett 25 P Keates/B Constable 10 Ladies Invitation Pairs: H Funnell/J Funnell 6 M Skinner/J Cornish 28 Folkestone Park Ladies 48 River Ladies 35 Folkestone Park 24 Ann Dillon, Ruth Edwards, Phyllis Kynoch 12; Folkestone Park 8 Sue Baldwin, Pat Fox, Sue Butcher 12; Folkestone Park 16 Sue Kirk, Shirley Leeves, Stella Cunningham 11 River 82 Hythe 82 J Thompson, B Howard, M Kirby 9 Hythe 20; D Barwick, A Griffiths, A Hibell 14 Hythe 10; R Pain, B Cook, D Britnell 12 Hythe 14; G Evans, D Butcher, D Wright 2 Hythe 25; J Edwards, G Simmonds, D Smith 26 Hythe 3; J Brand, E Gill, N Smith 19 Hythe 10 River Ladies 42 Gateway Ladies 42 Pat Fox, Kate Kirby, Ruth Edwards 13 Gateway 12; Sue Kirk, Stella Cunningham 18 Gateway 9; Sue Baldwin, Anne Cook, Phyllis Kynoch 11 Gateway 21 Kearsney 68 Aylesham 48 (Limited to 12 ends, bad weather): D Gavin, A Copp, P Simmons, M Law 4 G Travers, L Jeavons, J Miller, D Prosser 10; R Sawyer, D Page, C Thompson, B Bushby 11 L Douglas, D Roby, W Plews, L Hetherington 10; J Mackenzie, G Hornsey, J Yarrow, A Nichol 10 G Norton, T Bramwell, K Bartlett 8; T Brankley, N Torode, B Johnson, F Chaney 7 G Prosser, R Hadfield, P Needham, S Hardman 10; L Wright, G Devine, M Deakin, B Williams 17 M Down, R Norton, W Field, R Hood 5; N Sibley, M Brunt, M Smith, P Cook 19 J lord, S Adams, G Gilchrist, T Terry 5 Kearsney 146 Broadstairs & St Peters 74 D Gavin, W Haigh, C Thompson J J Smith 25 Broadstairs & St Peters 15; L Steed, M Brunt, M Smith, P Cook 30 Broadstairs & St Peters 7; R Hearn, G Devine, G Perrin, B Bushby 21 Broadstairs & St Peters 13; T Brankley, A Copp, B Swinerd, A Womar 34 Broadstairs & St Peters 7; J Mackenzie, R Maclure, C Bacon, B Williams 17 Broadstairs & St Peters 17; K Hughes, D page, M Willis, A Nichol 19 Broadstairs & St Peters 15 Canterbury Ladies 65 Kearsney Ladies 66 Canterbury 14 E Dixey, J Gaines, A Goldsmith 19; Canterbury 20 B Smith, J Womar, J Bessent 14; Canterbury 12 Mal Deakin, H Deakin, E Wilson 19; Canterbury 19 M Brunt, Mick Brunt, C Wellard 14 Gateway 42 Minster 63 G Graham, R Pead, D Dipper 9 Minster 12; E Hext, B Claw, B Wakeham 13 Minster 13; J Graham, G Neary, D James 8 Minster 24; L Dixon, M Friend, G Robinson 12 Minster 17
'Discuss sell-off plans with MP'
A CALL was made to the Government last week to get the Dover Harbour Board (DHB) and Tory MP Charlie Elphicke talking together to come up with an agreed scheme for the privatisation of the port. The move follows a highly-charged public meeting last week, when harbour board chief executive Bob Goldfield was visibly angry about an article by the MP in the Express over his opposition to the port authority's submitted privatisation scheme. The request for detailed talks between DHB and Mr Elphicke has come from the 450-member Dover Society in a letter to the Secretary of State for Transport, as part of the extended consultation into the sell-off plan. "We urge the Secretary of State to request Dover Harbour Board to open discussions with Mr Elphicke to try and establish what, if any, changes may profitably made to its scheme and to re-submit with due time for public representation," says the letter. The Dover Society, although opposed to the principle of port privatisation, accepts that it seems likely. After listening to the MP's scheme, providing for the ferry port to be owned by the people of Dover, the society accepts that the overall financial picture has not been made clear to its members. "But there may be elements of Mr Elphicke's scheme that could be of benefit," said a spokesman. The MP's scheme appears to have the support of port users and trade unions, provide greater local involvement and ensure the decision making centre would remain in Dover, said the society, amongst other comments in the letter.
Hundreds of feet were tapping at picnic on the green
BLUSTERY winds did not keep the crowds away from Walmer Parish Council's sixth annual Picnic on the Green on August 21. Local groups City Lightz and Kingsdown Band performed on the day and got people up and dancing to join Landmark Centre-based group Dance Dedication Deal. Representatives of Linwood Youth Club, The Cleary Club and Diabetes UK chatted to people in the marquees, giving advice and information on a range of services and opportunities available in Walmer and Deal. Chair of Walmer Parish Council Councillor Pat Heath said: "It was wonderful to see local residents of all ages enjoying themselves with some good food, good music and good company and the sun did come out eventually." Councillor Christine Orridge, chair of the events committee, added: "Thanks must go to the people who turned out in droves to support this ever-popular event, as well as all the groups who attended, and of course the two fantastic local bands." The Walmer in Bloom Committee also staged its first photographic competition which was well supported with 35 entries and more than 160 people voting for their favourites on the day. Winners were announced at the end of the afternoon with Close-up category taken by Philip Goodwin of Dover Road and Panoramic category by John Hilson of Blake Close.
Stylish Whites win on the road again as they beat Lewes 3-0
Lewes 0 Dover Athletic 3 AN ACCOMPLISHED performance ensured that Whites maintained both their perfect record on the road and their unbeaten start to their Blue Square South season at the Dripping Pan on Saturday. And if Whites never quite reached the heights of Tuesday night's fabulous display in their midweek win at Ebbsfleet this was a game where they seldom needed to get out of third gear to take the three points on offer. After the injury-stricken Rooks had made a lively enough start without really threatening, Whites slowly but surely started to take control. Chris Winterton had already come smartly off his line to deny Adam Birchall but Dover took the lead courtesy of the kind of comedy blooper that have become almost commonplace in recent weeks. Luke I'Anson's perfectly weighted angled ball sent Harry Baker clear down the right flank. And as Baker looked to pick out Birchall's run to the back stick, full back Anthony Barness tried to avert the danger by heading over the crossbar. But Barness only succeeded in nodding over the stranded Winterton and into the roof of the net. If Whites controlled the first half without ever really dominating, they upped the tempo in the second session to kill off their game but limited hosts. And if they'd needed a helping hand with their opener, two beautifully crafted goals in the space of nine minutes did much to erase the memory of a 6-2 battering on this very ground just nine short months ago. The visitors made it 2-0 after 61 minutes with a goal of the very highest calibre. Birchall, Nicky Nicolau and Jon Wallis were all involved in a move of delectable simplicity that resulted in the excellent Baker again going clear on the right. Having got to the dead ball line, Baker drilled over a hard, low cross that Elliott Charles gratefully tapped home from barely a yard out. Having joined on an initial one-month loan deal in midweek, Southend United kid Harry Crawford had only been on the park a couple of minutes when he netted his first Dover goal. After replacing Charles on 68 minutes, sub Crawford tenaciously closed down a Lewes attack with the ball breaking for Nicolau. And, timing his run perfectly, Crawford got on the end of Nicolau's prod into the inside left channel, firing first time into the bottom left hand corner. Though the game was effectively beyond them in the 20 minutes or so that remained, Lewes battled on in front of their biggest home gate in over a year. Whites' defending at set pieces was never less than top drawer, however, and when the largely under-employed keeper Ross Flitney was called into action, he responded with a couple of good stops from Aaron Hopkinson and substitute Tom Murphy. At the other end, Kane Rice might also have got his name of the scoresheet a couple of minutes after his introduction. His 25-yarder looked destined for the top left hand corner before Winterton's save drew generous applause from all four sides of the ground seconds before the final whistle. All in all, a result and performance that showed in spades why Martin Hayes' new-look side has the potential to become a very good side indeed.
Locals line up to take on the stars
THE DOVER Invitation Darts League Divisional Singles knockouts were held at the Whitfield Club on Friday, with all the winners and runners up earning the opportunity to play against leading pros Andy Hamilton or Steve Beaton at the presentation evening on September 24. In total, 95 players entered the knockouts and we start the round up in division one. Jim Penman of the Archer was the eventual winner, beating Ritchie Buckle in the final. Jim began with a 2-0 win over last week's pairs runner up Al Terry. He then beat Del Palmer of the Bull A 2-1 and quickly followed that with another 2-0 win over Three Cups player James Warr. In quarter finals the format changed to best of five legs, Penman won 3-1 against Wayne Venes of the Hairy Bull and in the semi-final he beat Mel Beckett of Phoenix Rangers won by the same margin. Buckle's route to the final started with a 2-0 win against his team-mate Martin Pepe. That was followed by 2-0 wins over Chris Bent (The Archer) and George Clark of The Diamond. In the quarters and semis Buckle Wheelwrights A's Phil Proctor and Lee Dawkins 3-0 and 3-1 respectively. But Penman won the final with some fantastic darts - winning the match 3-0 and taking just 15, 11 and 13 darts in the three legs. That is a three-dart average of 115.6 - which we all know is incredible! Jim also hit two 180s in the final. Division Two winner was Darren Hyder of the Crown & Sceptre, who beat Lloyd Clubb 3-2 in the final. On the way to the final Hyder the Falstaff trio of Jason Breedon, Andy Terry and Shaun Breedon. Darren hit four 180s on the night, including three in his semi-final win over Shaun Breedon. Clubb's route to the final included a 2-1 win over Kevin Elliot (Oast Cottage), 3-0 against Dean Smith and a 3-2 semi final victory over his team-mate and blind pairs winner Alan Humphries. Winner of the combined Division Three and Four knockout was Dan Cameron of the Admiral Harvey A with Dave Cassell (Golden Lion) runner up. A draw was also made for further chances to play one of the professionals. Those places went to - Simon Whatmore (Div Three/Four), Colin Habbershaw (Division Two) and Division One, Paul Turner who gave his place to Billy Bell. The final place on presentation night – chosen by the committee – went to Kevin Green for all his help in running the knockouts and pro events. The full line up and order of play is – Singles: Mark Bax v Steve Beaton Simon Whatmore v Steve Beaton Dave Cassell v Steve Beaton Bet Pettley v Steve Beaton Dan Cameron v Andy Hamilton Draw on the night v Andy Hamilton Colin Habbershaw v Andy Hamilton Billy Bell v Andy Hamilton Interval Pairs (best of three: Gary Mills & Steve Beaton v Al Terry & Andy Hamilton Paul Martin & Steve Beaton v Alan Humphries & Andy Hamilton Singles: Darren Hyder v Steve Beaton Kevin Green v Steve Beaton Lloyd Clubb v Andy Hamilton Ritchie Buckle v Andy Hamilton The evening ends with a seven leg challenge between the two professional players.
The Seagals on board Go
Commando.
Picture by onEdition