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Lightning strike sparks house fire near Maidstone after night of thunderstorms
Firefighters were called to Ulcombe Hill near Maidstone after lightning struck the roof of a house during overnight thunderstorms. Six fire engines attended and no injuries were reported.
£2 million investment agreed for Edenbridge Leisure Centre
Edenbridge Leisure Centre is set for around £2.2 million of investment up to 2027, with planned improvements to changing rooms, the sports hall roof, heating, ventilation, boilers, the main entrance and other key facilities.
Sevenoaks moves closer to new leisure centre and town centre regeneration
Sevenoaks has moved a step closer to a major town centre regeneration project, with Wates named as the preferred contractor for plans including a new leisure centre, cultural hub, market hall, green spaces and new homes near Buckhurst Lane and Suffolk Way.
Police appeal after serious assault reported near Paddock Wood
Kent Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after a serious assault was reported near Paddock Wood in the early hours of Wednesday morning. A man was taken to hospital and has since been discharged, while a 32-year-old man from Ashford was arrested on suspicion of assault and drink driving.
Father’s Day in West Kent: sunshine, cold drinks and dads pretending they don’t want a fuss
Father’s Day in West Kent arrives with sunshine, heat and plenty of simple ways to celebrate. From park walks and riverside strolls to pub gardens, Sunday lunches, picnics and family days out in Maidstone, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, today is a good excuse to spoil Dad a little - even if he insists he “doesn’t want anything”.
Yalding Post Office services return after village campaign
Post Office services are returning to Yalding through a temporary outreach service at the Parish Council Office/Old Post Office. The move follows the closure of the village branch after 126 years and concerns from residents who rely on local access.
Tree vandalism damages ancient woodland habitat in Maidstone
Ancient woodland habitat in Maidstone has been damaged after trees were cut down, deadwood removed and vehicles driven across sensitive areas. Maidstone Borough Council says the damage threatens important wildlife habitats, including breeding areas for stag beetles.
Sevenoaks District Council sets out two options for future of The Stag
Sevenoaks District Council has proposed two options for the future of The Stag: a £650,000 freehold purchase or a new 30-year lease at a peppercorn rent. The decision will be considered by councillors over the coming weeks, with a final decision expected in July.
Police appeal after teenage girl dies in Staplehurst collision
A 17-year-old girl has died following a collision on Headcorn Road in Staplehurst. Two passengers were also injured, one critically. Kent Police are appealing for witnesses, CCTV and dashcam footage from the area.