KentOnline
The top stories from the KentOnline news team
Subscribe to this podcast
Episodes
-
Podcast: Developer pulls out of controversial luxury £30 million hotel plan for Betteshanger Country Park near Deal
Friday, 18 July 2025
It’s understood plans for a £30 million hotel at a country park have been quietly dropped after the intended operator pulled out.The controversial scheme at Betteshanger, near Deal, was met with huge opposition and took two years to get planning permission.Also in today’s podcast, the family of a sub-postmistress convicted of stealing thousands from the branch will be given the chance to clear her name after “an abuse of process”.Pat Owen was found guilty of theft from the Broad Oak Post Office in Sturry, near Canterbury, in 1998, despite denying any involvement in a £6,000 shortfall in its...
-
Podcast: Missing Hawkhurst man found dead in woodland more than a week after disappearance
Thursday, 17 July 2025
The body of a much-loved son has been found in woodland, over a week after he was reported missing.The 32-year-old hadn’t been seen since he was spotted in Hawkhurst last Tuesday – it comes just a day after his family made an appeal for information. Also in today’s podcast, the number of children getting an MMR jab in Kent must increase to prevent a measles outbreak, the county’s director of public health has warned.The percentage of youngsters in both Kent and Medway coming forward for immunisation has slumped over the last few years - falling well below the targets needed to eradicate the...
-
Podcast: A La Turka restaurant boss appears in court over failure to remove illegal dining enclosure in Herne Bay
Wednesday, 16 July 2025
A restaurant boss has been hauled before a court after failing to remove an illegal dining enclosure built without planning permission outside his seafront eatery.The owners of A La Turka in Herne Bay has admitted two offences relating to the structure - which continues to stand more than three years after he was ordered to take it down. Also in today’s podcast, an inquiry into the crimes of David Fuller has concluded the offences carried out by the necrophiliac “could happen again”.David Fuller sexually abused the bodies of more than 100 women and girls in hospital mortuaries and is alread...
-
Podcast: Anger over "disgusting" incorrect fine at The Mall car park in Romney Place, Maidstone
Tuesday, 15 July 2025
A driver has called a parking firm “disgusting” after he was wrongfully issued a £100 fine for overstaying.He’d left his car at the multi-storey in Maidstone on two separate occasions, days apart, and paid each time but was baffled when a hefty bill arrived claiming he had parked there for six days.Also in today’s podcast, it’s been revealed the railway crossing where an Amazon delivery driver died when his van was hit by a train has a history of near misses. You can hear from a local councillor who says safety improvements must be made to stop similar incidents happening in the future. The...
-
Podcast: The Kent DJ who travelled on Concorde with Phil Collins for both British and American Live Aid shows and dated Kate Bush
Monday, 14 July 2025
A Kent man who had the privilege of travelling with a megastar for one of the biggest global events has been reliving the memories of Live Aid 40-years on. You can hear from broadcaster Steve Blacknell who flew on Concorde with Phil Collins as the singer jetted from the London show to Philadelphia in July 1985. Also on today’s podcast, investigations are underway after an Amazon delivery driver died following a collision involving a train near Sittingbourne. Rail services had to be suspended due to the crash in Teynham – one of our reporters has been at the scene. You can also hear from a M...
-
Podcast: Large fire breaks out at Viridor recycling centre on the Medway City Estate with smoke seen across the Towns
Friday, 11 July 2025
A huge fire's broken out at an industrial estate in Strood - with smoke visible from miles away.Crews were called to the Viridor recycling centre on the Medway City Estate just before six this morning. Hear from a reporter at the scene and a man who works nearby.Also in today's podcast, a hosepipe ban has been announced for a large part of Kent as the hot weather puts pressure on supplies.South East Water say in recent weeks demand has increased to record levels for this time of year. We've been hearing from the Water Supply Director at the company.A car salesman has told us he could be for...
-
Podcast: Police officer seen "bleeding" during lengthy stand-off at house in James Street, Sheerness
Thursday, 10 July 2025
A police officer was seen “bleeding” after coming out of a house before a lengthy stand-off at a property.At least nine police vehicles were called to the property in Sheerness after two officers were reportedly assaulted.Also in today’s podcast, businesses and residents at the centre of everyday delays on a historic bridge are calling for a solution.You can hear from residents who say getting stuck at a standstill waiting to cross Yalding Town Bridge has been a challenge for the last 15 years. Volunteers behind a new “social supermarket” aimed at tackling poverty stigma and reducing relian...
-
Podcast: Man shot by police near Park Inn Gate pub, in Hollingbourne, Maidstone, was wielding a chainsaw and wearing a gas mask
Wednesday, 9 July 2025
More details have emerged about a man who was shot by police in a village near MaidstoneFootage from body-worn cameras shows he was wielding a chainsaw and wearing a gas mask – and had what officers thought was an improvised explosive device. Also in today’s podcast, a mum whose son suffered heat exhaustion at school as temperatures hit 32 degrees says making pupils wear trousers during a heatwave is “inhumane”.The 12-year-old has to collected from school as he felt “dizzy and unwell” on what was the hottest day of the year so far.There’s also a warning for local traders who have been told ...
-
Podcast: Man shot by Kent Police officer at an address in Hollingbourne near Maidstone leading to investigation by the IOPC
Tuesday, 8 July 2025
A man has been seriously injured after being shot by police at an address near Maidstone.Kent Police have confirmed they were in Hollingbourne last night to make an arrest when a firearm was discharged.The Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed it is investigation.Also in today's podcast, staff at a Kent animal sanctuary say they are shocked and heartbroken over the theft of one of their goats.Taco had only been at Buttercups for just over 24 hours when he was taken.We've been getting an update from the boss behind the restoration of the Leas Lift in Folkestone.The historic lan...
-
Podcast: Gravesend woman forced into homelessness following emergency prohibition order on Northfleet HMO
Monday, 7 July 2025
A Kent woman says she’s been forced back into homelessness and is “living out of carrier bags” after being “kicked out” of her makeshift home.Kelly Cardwell said her life was finally getting back on track after a year of sofa surfing when she found a converted garage room to rent – but council have told her she has to leave. Also in today’s podcast, we've been hearing from a Kent charity, on how to spot the subtle signs of alcohol dependency in the work place.It's a new campaign from the Kenward Trust in Yalding - which will feature real life stories from people who alcohol use impacted the...
-
Podcast: Ramsgate dad Thomas Holford found guilty of murdering baby daughter after shaking her 'like a ragdoll'
Friday, 4 July 2025
A Ramsgate man's facing life in prison after being found guilty of murdering his baby daughter.A court heard Thomas Holford, 25, of Wallwood Road had smoked cannabis in the hours before shaking five week old Everleigh Stroud, and leaving her with a catastrophic brain injury.Also in today's podcast, the East Thanet MP is calling for more to be done in future to prevent a repeat of trouble seen in Broadstairs.Fights broke out on the beach, local shops were targeted and a restaurant smashed up around a fortnight ago. We've been speaking to Polly Billington who is holding a public meeting.Plans...
-
Podcast: Drink-driving arrest after motorcyclist killed in crash with Ford Fiesta near Canterbury
Thursday, 3 July 2025
A woman aged in her 20s has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving and causing death by dangerous driving after a motorcyclist was killed in a crash.Police say it happened as a black Ford Fiesta and a black BMW X5 were travelling south along Stone Street last night.Also in today’s podcast, residents are worried plans for 750 homes will add to the traffic problems already plaguing a town.Developers have asked residents in Lower Rainham about a possible development on land off Pump Lane, recently included for housing in Medway Council’s draft Local Plan.Wetherspoon bosses have defended r...
-
Podcast: South East Water works to restore supplies to thousands of homes in Herne Bay
Wednesday, 2 July 2025
Water bosses have apologised after thousands of customers were left without water, or very low pressure, as temperatures topped 34C.South East Water say the problem in Herne Bay was caused by particularly high demand across the county which caused storage levels of treated drinking water to 'fall significantly'.Also in today's podcast, residents in Snodland say anti-social teenagers are becoming a growing problem - with youngsters blocking pavements and damaging property.It's a particular issue on the High Street, where some people have been threatened and intimidated.We've been hearing fro...
-
Podcast: Greenhithe homeowner kicks out ‘overcharging’ managing agent FirstPort - and wants to help others do the same
Tuesday, 1 July 2025
A determined flat owner who managed to oust her building’s “overcharging” managing agent and halve her service charge is now on a crusade to help other residents.She took action after the problems and poor service started almost immediately after she moved into the property in Unicorn Walk in Greenhithe three-years ago. Also in today’s podcast, people are calling for a well-used route to become a dual carriageway before more than 1,000 homes could be built nearby.The A2500 Lower Road on Sheppey regularly gets high volumes of traffic at peak times – you can hear from one resident who says i...
-
Podcast: Man dies in hospital after attending Margate Drum & Bass Festival at Dreamland prompting event to shut down early
Monday, 30 June 2025
Dreamland says it is supporting the emergency services in their enquiries after the death of a 21-year-old man at a drum ‘n’ bass festival.You can hear from a KentOnline reporter who was at the event in Margate – which was shut down hours earlier than planned following the tragic incident. Also in today’s podcast, a grieving family in Herne Bay believe a 73-year-old father was “put in an early grave” after being attacked by teenagers who left him lying helpless in the rain.He was walking home to his flat when he was targeted by thugs near the seafront last December. We’ve spoken to fire bos...
-
Podcast: Man jailed for life for murdering Tunbridge Wells grandfather Wayne Woodgate and dumping his body in woodland
Friday, 27 June 2025
A man who murdered a grandfather from Tunbridge Wells has been told he'll spend at least 25 years behind bars.Stephen Castle hid Wayne Woodgate's body in woodland after attacking him over a long-standing grudge last October.The 59-year-old from Hastings Road near Matfield was found guilty by a jury following a trial last month.Also in today's podcast, a teenager from Maidstone who left his neighbour with more than 50 stab wounds has been jailed.Police were called to reports of a disturbance at a building in Fairmeadow last September. Hear the moment the 19-year-old was arrested.The prime mi...
-
Podcast: Kings Park School in Ashford remains empty two months after opening for SEN students after council confusion
Thursday, 26 June 2025
A brand-new special needs school remains empty months after opening despite being inundated by daily calls from parents “who want their children there”.The independent provision, which has space for 40 pupils, is targeted at children aged seven to 16, with lower special educational needs who do not fit into mainstream schools. Also in today’s podcast, a cyclist has appeared in court accused of killing a pensioner after hitting him on his e-bike almost two years ago.The victim was injured outside his home after the electric bicycle allegedly struck him while being ridden on the pavement in R...
-
Podcast: Herne Bay dad’s warning to ‘phone zombies’ after Canterbury schoolgirl daughter distracted by Snapchat hit by car and seriously injured
Wednesday, 25 June 2025
A Herne Bay dad has issued a warning after his daughter suffered a badly broken leg when she was hit by a car while scrolling on her phone.Dashcam video shows 12 -year-old Lola walking straight out in front of the vehicle as she messaged friends on Snapchat.Also in today's episode, the founder of a Kent baby loss charity has told us she's reached out to Kelsey Parker to offer support.The podcaster, who was previously married to Tom from The Wanted, has shared that her baby son Phoenix was born sleeping a week before he was due.Kelly Wells from Making Miracles has been telling us about the h...
-
Podcast: Parents of girl raped by three strangers in Dover and Folkestone reveal the impact it's had on the whole family as they say she deserves justice
Tuesday, 24 June 2025
The parents of a girl who was raped by three strangers have spoken out after the men were found guilty following a trial...A court heard how the child was plied with drugs and assaulted by the group after they came across her in a supermarket car park.Reporter Lauren Abbott has spoken to the victim's parents and joins today's episode of the podcast.Also in this episode, police have told us a 'perfect storm' led to anti-social behaviour in Broadstairs at the weekend.It's thought a number of young people from other parts of Kent headed to the town after the end of GCSE exams which coincided w...
-
Podcast: Couple in new-build house in Aylesham Village near Canterbury say they are 'living a nightmare' as it has been plagued by flooding
Monday, 23 June 2025
A couple say their new build home in Kent is still suffering from flooding issues eight years after they moved in.The most recent happened during a severe storm earlier this month when water got into the front room of the building in Aylesham Village near Canterbury. Hear from reporter Millie Bowles who has been following the story.Also in today's podcast, two housing estates in Maidstone could receive funding for upgrades, after being selected for a "trailblazing neighbourhood" scheme.Senacre and Park Wood will receive £20 million over the next ten years as part of community-led renewal ef...
-
Podcast: Girl, 3, undergoes surgery after being attacked by dog outside Miers Court Primary School in Rainham
Friday, 20 June 2025
A three-year-old girl had to undergo surgery after being attacked by a dog opposite a primary school.Bunnie was walking along a narrow road in Rainham with her family when the dog suddenly lunged for her. Also in today’s podcast, a former prison guard who sexually attacked a woman and held her at gunpoint has died in jail.Just a day after his 50th birthday, the Dover man was found dead at HMP Isle of Wight – it’s triggered an investigation. An NHS trust’s decision to hike parking charges for patients and staff has been branded “absolutely disgusting”.Those working for East Kent Hospitals wi...
-
Podcast: Tunbridge Wells Hospital apologises after ‘human failings’ led to ‘tragic death’ of beauty therapist
Thursday, 19 June 2025
A hospital trust has apologised after “human failings” meant opportunities to properly diagnose a happily married beauty therapist were missed which would have saved her life.The 36-year-old passed away after collapsing at her home in Tonbridge – just days after she was discharged from hospital.Also in today’s podcast, a shocking wave of youth-led catapult attacks on birds, swans, ducks and foxes in Kent has been described by wildlife workers as “a new kind of pandemic”.We’ve got figures on just how many catapult attacks have been reported to police over the last three years. A cash-strappe...
-
Podcast: Huge transformation of Folkestone harbour approved at crunch meeting
Wednesday, 18 June 2025
A huge transformation of Folkestone harbour has been approved - five months after the controversial plans were snubbed.More than 400 homes will now be built at the popular landmark after Sir Roger De Haan’s Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company revised its scheme.Also in today’s podcast, we mark 25 years since a grim discovery at Dover docks laid bare the human cost of illegal migration. Fifty-eight Chinese men and women were found dead in the back of a lorry on June 18, 2000. They had suffocated in an airtight container during a desperate attempt to reach the UK.Thousands of dr...
-
Podcast: Yoga instructor ‘heartbroken’ as Thanet District Council brings in £1,000 charge to use beach
Tuesday, 17 June 2025
A yoga instructor has been left “heartbroken” by a council’s decision to charge her £1,000 to use the beach for classes.She has been hosting early morning sessions on the sand at West Bay in Westgate-on-Sea at a cost of £5 a person but says the new charges will cripple her business. Also in today’s podcast, two special independent schools in the county are closing at short notice in a move it’s feared will leave “a lot” of families in the lurch and potentially without places.A letter was sent to parents from the chair of school governors explaining how the forecast for the number of pupils ...
-
Podcast: Employee left with severe brain injury after boss crashed truck in Pluckley told him "I hate what you've turned me into"
Monday, 16 June 2025
A man left with a devastating brain injury after his boss crashed a truck after drinking has told him in court: “I hate what you’ve turned me into.”The 30-year-old was knocked unconscious and suffered multiple fractures when the driver ploughed into a tree in Pluckley while driving staff home from a leaving party.Also in today’s podcast, clean operations are still underway after Friday’s storm battered part of the county. Some people in Dover and Thanet were left in temporary accommodation after heavy rain left homes and roads flooded. Nine fire engines have spent the night tackling a ragin...
-
Podcast: Ramsgate couple who ran the Wellness Foundry feared to be on Gatwick bound Air India flight which crashed shortly after take-off
Friday, 13 June 2025
Tributes are being paid to a Kent couple who are thought to have been on board a plane that crashed in India.Fiongal and Jamie Greenlaw-Meek ran a wellness company in Ramsgate.The aircraft was heading for Gatwick when it came down near Ahmedabad airport.Also in today's podcast, the family of a teacher from Sheppey who was found dead in a creek have said her death with entirely preventable.The body of mum-of-three Karen Gill was discovered on South Street in Queenborough last December.Staff at a secondary school in Deal have started strike action over proposed job cuts.Five members of suppor...
-
Podcast: Herne Bay residents want action over 'wannabe gangsters' terrorising the town with anti-social behaviour
Thursday, 12 June 2025
People in Herne Bay have been left living in fear as the town is increasingly plagued by violent and anti-social youths branded “wannabe gangsters”.A public meeting has been called for later this month, where police and councillors will face questions from fed-up residents and businesses desperate for action.Also in today’s podcast, the owner of an indoor adventure centre says he will ban for life the person responsible for causing thousands of pounds of damage to a SEN feature.Bosses say the area of Adventure Kidz at Aylesford’s Quarry Wood Retail Park will cost around £2,500 to fix. You c...
-
Podcast: Anger as all but one local council in Kent increases the cost of collecting garden waste
Wednesday, 11 June 2025
You are going to have to pay more to have your garden waste collected in Kent.12 local authorities in the county have decided to increase the charge by an average of £3.99 - hear from reporter Joe Harbert who has been investigating.Also in today's podcast, people living in part of Medway have told us they fear their village won't be able to cope with 350 new homes.A consultation is under way into the idea of building on land at Allhallows on the Hoo Peninsula. Hear the thoughts of the local councillor and some people who already live in the area.Eurostar has been accused of shirking its "mo...
-
Podcast: Sevenoaks driver led police on 130 mph chase on the M25 and M11 before crashing
Tuesday, 10 June 2025
A Sevenoaks man who led police on a 130 mile per hour chase before crashing, has avoided being sent to prison.Lee Twinley, 20 from Manor Road in Sundridge, was followed for 20 minutes on the M25 and M11 towards Cambridge back in March. Hear the moment he was tracked by a police helicopter.Also in today's podcast, a Maidstone mum has told us how her baby's initial diagnosis of bronchiolitis turned out to be a life-threatening heart condition.Leila was born in October last year but became ill less than two months later and was rushed to hospital.The boss of a youth group in Thanet has explain...
-
Podcast: Figures reveal a dramatic increase in the number of pupils being excluded from schools in Kent
Monday, 9 June 2025
It has been revealed children as young as four have been suspended from Kent schools, amid a rise in the number of exclusions across the county.The numbers follow a trend across the country after Covid, with the lockdowns that started in 2020 affecting many children's formative years.Also in today's podcast, the man who oversees the police in Kent has told us he'd be interested in becoming the county's first Mayor.But Matthew Scott has urged the government to speed up any reorganisation of local authorities.Double amputee Tony Hudgell's been gifted a signed football shirt from David Beckham...
