Joe Crossley

Twenty-four-year-old Jordan Matthews has opened Vital House Lounge at 22 High Street in Sittingbourne after taking over the former Baileys Coffee Shop premises. She has invested about £10,000 in legal work and renovations while continuing her job as a food and beverage manager at a Maidstone Holiday Inn, working more than 80 hours a week across both roles. Matthews aims to create a homely, community-focused alternative to larger coffee chains and plans to add brunches, breakfasts, afternoon teas and private events.

The southbound A256 Ramsgate Road near Sandwich is closed for about 10 days while Southern Water repairs a sewer main, forcing motorists onto a 31-mile diversion via Canterbury and the A28. The closure has caused severe congestion and lengthy delays, compounded by the closure of Sandwich Toll Bridge. Kent Highways has warned drivers to expect disruption, while Southern Water says the complex work is progressing and has apologised to residents and businesses.

Ben Denard has submitted plans to Swale Council for a Traveller site off Holywell Lane in Upchurch, comprising 18 mobile homes and touring caravans across three pitches, each with a dayroom. The application is partly retrospective because mobile homes and an ancillary utility building are already on the former nursery site. The report also lists other planning applications across Sittingbourne, Minster, Sheppey, Borden, Bobbing and nearby areas, including a proposed certificate of lawful development for Hollybush Farm, which contains more than 60 caravans and is owned by Meadow Bay Villages.

A Sittingbourne woman was arrested for wasting police time after reposting a friend’s fabricated claim that she had been raped at Milton Regis Recreation Ground. Believing the detailed account and being told police had been contacted, she circulated the allegation on Facebook, where it was amplified by local groups and a councillor. Kent Police found no evidence that the rape occurred, and the arrested woman later received a community resolution order. The report also examines other Kent misinformation cases, including false accusations against ice-cream van operator Raja Khan, rumours that asylum seekers would be housed in local hotels, and claims that provoked a hate-crime assault in Lydd. It highlights the consequences of unverified social media posts for victims, businesses, police resources and public safety.

Denby Collins died in April after spending nearly 13 years in a coma following a 2013 altercation at a home in Gillingham, where he suffered cardiac arrest and a severe hypoxic brain injury. An inquest concluded that his death resulted from the injury following the altercation, but did not issue an unlawful-killing ruling. His family disputes the account that he was a burglar and wants the people involved to explain what happened, while saying they are not seeking to criminalise them. Police investigations did not result in charges, and a later review found that reopening the case was not appropriate. The family also unsuccessfully challenged legislation allowing householders to use force against intruders.

Meopham Parish Council has reopened the public toilets opposite Pitfield Green after residents opposed plans to demolish them. More than £50,000 was spent on the dispute and refurbishment, including the cost of a non-binding village vote, by-elections and building improvements. The toilets had been closed in April 2024 because the council considered them outdated and little used, but 569 of 605 voters supported reopening them. The refurbished block reopened on July 1 and is expected to cost about £20,000 annually to maintain. Residents welcomed the decision, while the council said it reflected a better response to community concerns.

Visitors to Swale Borough Council’s Shingle Bank parking area on the Isle of Sheppey say the £15 overnight charge is poor value because it provides only a parking pitch, with no toilets, showers, fresh water or waste-disposal facilities. The charge and caravan ban, introduced a year earlier after complaints about long-term encampments, litter, antisocial behaviour and human waste, appear to have removed permanent occupants. However, residents and tourists argue that the lack of amenities, the closure of nearby toilets and Ricky’s Surf Shack, and the area’s declining trade are deterring visitors. The council spent £37,400 introducing the measures and estimated annual operating costs of £26,300, but had not yet provided details of parking revenue.

A 46-year-old Hythe woman, Claire Wicks, was identified as the passenger who died when a Mini Cooper crashed into a tree on the A20 in Sellindge on July 5. An inquest opened in Maidstone confirmed she died from a head injury, with proceedings suspended due to ongoing criminal matters. The driver, a 44-year-old woman, was airlifted to a London hospital in life‑threatening condition. Tributes were left at the crash site, and local residents and clergy expressed condolences. Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage as part of the serious collision investigation.

A collision involving two lorries and a van on the A249 between Detling and Stockbury caused delays as emergency crews treated two people for minor injuries and police closed the road for recovery. The route was already reduced to one lane due to ongoing repairs from a previous accident.

An inquest detailed how two teenagers drowned after their car overturned into a water-filled ditch in Iwade, with a surviving passenger describing the moments leading up to the crash and the hours spent trapped inside. Investigators found the unlicensed driver had been travelling too fast for the road conditions, though not speeding. Emergency services located the vehicle after family members raised the alarm when the teens went missing. The coroner recorded accidental death verdicts and expressed condolences to the families, while fundraising efforts later supported both victims’ relatives.

A new £2 million farm and science classroom block has been completed at Westlands School in Sittingbourne and will officially open in September. The facility replaces a 1970s temporary structure and includes five classrooms designed to strengthen links between academic and practical learning, particularly through the school’s farm. Head teacher Christina Honess said the building will enhance science and animal care education. The school is gathering photographs and memories from former pupils for a display celebrating its 75-year history during the opening event.

A range of planning applications were submitted to Swale council, including a proposed extension to the soft play facility at Sheppey United FC’s Holm Park, the formalisation of a storage container business at Tickham Farm in Norton, and construction of dayrooms for two Gypsy and Traveller pitches in Lower Halstow. Other submissions cover redevelopment plans at Church Farm, tree works in Faversham, material details for a listed building in Dunkirk, an EV pole sign at a Morrisons store, and various residential extensions, amendments and certifications across the region.

Armed police responded to a disturbance involving possible weapons on Alma Road in Sheerness, where a 23‑year‑old man was arrested on suspicion of making threats to kill and possessing a firearm. Paramedics attended, no injuries were reported, and investigations continue.

Construction of Lidl’s first supermarket on the Isle of Sheppey is progressing, with new aerial images showing the steel frame taking shape at the Cowstead Corner roundabout site. The project, delayed for years by legal challenges from Tesco and Aldi, has now received planning approval for the third time after previous permissions were quashed by the High Court. Lidl began building after securing approval in March and has submitted a new application for an artwork installation consisting of bronze steel columns reflecting the area’s naval heritage. The store is expected to create up to 40 jobs once it opens.

Police charged Joshua Miller with murder and preventing a lawful burial after a body was found in a suitcase at Borstal Recreation Ground in Rochester. Jamie Cooper was charged with preventing a lawful burial, and both men were known to the victim. A third man was released on bail. The Metropolitan Police launched the investigation after evidence of serious harm was discovered at an address in Wandsworth. Forensic work continued at the park, and MP Lauren Edwards said there was no wider risk to the public.

Police cordoned off the pavement outside the Ramsgate Jobcentre as forensic officers examined the area, with officers standing guard and the scene attracting public attention. Emergency services were contacted for further details, with updates expected.

England supporters across Kent celebrated the team's World Cup 2026 quarter-final victory over Norway, filling pubs late into the night after a tense match that went to extra time. Fans expressed relief and confidence in the squad’s performance, with Jude Bellingham drawing widespread praise. Even neutral spectators voiced approval of England’s win. Scenes in Kent reflected celebrations by thousands of UK fans at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Fans across Kent gathered early in pubs to watch England’s World Cup quarter‑final against Norway, expressing confidence in a victory while acknowledging Norway’s attacking threat. More than 10,000 UK supporters arrived in Miami, creating a lively atmosphere ahead of the match. Police reported increased football‑related incidents during previous games due to extended licensing hours. England staff and former star David Beckham encouraged the squad as they prepared for a potential semi‑final against Argentina or Switzerland.

Thousands have been raised through a GoFundMe page for highways worker Anthony Howe, who died after being struck by a van on the M23 in Crawley. Police charged Vilius Domarkas with causing death by dangerous driving, and he has been remanded ahead of a Crown Court appearance. Sussex Police continue to investigate and are appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage.

A large projection of the Bayeux Tapestry illuminated the White Cliffs of Dover as a gesture of thanks to France for loaning the historic embroidery to the British Museum. The tapestry was transported from the Channel Tunnel to London under police escort, marking one of the most significant cultural loans between the two countries. The museum reported record ticket sales ahead of the exhibition, while teams from the UK and France coordinated the tapestry’s journey and upcoming installation. Over the coming weeks it will undergo condition checks before being displayed to millions of expected visitors.

Maidstone Council declined a request to show World Cup matches on projectors at the Lockmeadow food hall, disappointing traders who rely on event-driven footfall. The council cited required security, staffing, operational costs and the family‑focused nature of the venue as reasons for refusing the screenings. Trader Royston Starling disputed the initial explanation involving an alleged Odeon contract and warned the decision could affect his business plans, while the council emphasised its responsibility to balance needs across the centre.

A man was seriously injured in an alleged assault in Richmond Street, Herne Bay shortly after midnight. Police and paramedics responded, and the victim was taken to hospital with injuries not considered life‑threatening. Kent Police have opened an investigation and are appealing for witnesses to come forward with information.

Police are seeking information on the whereabouts of 51-year-old Gordan Seales, last seen on Littlebourne Road in Canterbury. He was reported missing after 1.20pm on Friday and is described as white, 5ft 5in, slim, and wearing a blue T‑shirt, black jogging bottoms, a khaki jacket and black trainers. He has known links to Sussex, Surrey and London. The public is urged to call 999 with critical information or contact Kent Police via live chat or 101 for other details.

Police are treating the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe as suspicious after she was found dead at her home in Dartmoor. Initial reports suggested natural causes, but Devon and Cornwall Police have opened an investigation and are expected to issue a statement. Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP who later joined the Brexit Party and Reform UK, lived alone in Haytor. Tributes have been shared following the announcement of her death.

Emergency services responded to reports of a woman in distress at the Dockside shopping complex in Chatham. Paramedics treated one person at the Leviathan Way car park before transporting them to a hospital, while police and fire crews also attended the scene.

A hit‑and‑run driver, Jordan Bannon, was jailed for causing the death of primary school teacher Ben Allen on Station Road in Cliffe in 2021 after striking him while driving without a valid licence. A jury found Bannon guilty of causing death by careless driving and driving while unlicensed, rejecting his claims that he believed he had hit an animal and was not intoxicated. Impact statements from Allen’s family and partner described profound personal loss. Judge Julian Smith sentenced Bannon to 20 months in prison, a concurrent six‑month term, and a three‑year driving disqualification, citing his failure to accept responsibility. Authorities emphasised that the collision was avoidable and that Bannon’s actions and lack of remorse caused devastating consequences for the victim’s family and community.

Multiple planning applications have been submitted to Swale council, including a proposal to convert the former Neptune Sports Lounge in Sheerness into five offices with associated window alterations and storage. Additional plans include converting a stable in Hartlip into a family home, turning Sittingbourne offices into apartments, creating holiday lets near Faversham, and building a new garage with accommodation in Boughton-under-Blean. Further minor applications across the region involve extensions, tree works, amendments to housing developments, and discharge of planning conditions.

Police officers in riot gear forced entry into a house on Paget Street in Gillingham during a dawn raid led by the Metropolitan Police, with forensic teams remaining on-site. Authorities have not yet released further details about the operation.

A 16-year-old girl previously arrested in Sheerness for allegedly assaulting another teenager and threatening to kill was arrested again two days later for allegedly assaulting three police officers. Police first detained her after a disturbance near a McDonald's on Bridge Road and later arrested her on High Street following concerns for a person's welfare. She remains in custody while investigations continue.

A £20 million government investment aims to improve living conditions in Sheppey East, one of Kent’s most deprived areas. Garry Ratcliffe, former chief executive of the Golden Thread Alliance and now chairman of the local Pride in Place board, plans to use the decade-long funding to address issues such as poor transport links, isolation in caravan communities and lack of essential services. While residents express scepticism based on past initiatives, Ratcliffe stresses the importance of community input and realistic project plans. Additional immediate government funding is being used for upgrades across Swale, with formal proposals for Sheppey East due in November and spending expected to begin in March.

The Sheppey Crossing, opened in 2006 as part of a major A249 improvement scheme, transformed access between the Isle of Sheppey and mainland Kent, prompting significant housing and commercial development. The bridge replaced reliance on the slower Kingsferry Bridge and now carries more than a million journeys monthly. Its history includes major incidents such as a 130‑vehicle crash in 2013 and subsequent safety reviews that led to speed limit adjustments. Political advocacy, particularly from former MP Derek Wyatt, was instrumental in securing funding and approval. Despite occasional closures and technical issues, the crossing remains a key economic driver, improving transport links, supporting tourism and housing growth, and boosting regional connectivity.

Protesters from East Kent Animal Action and Shut Down Campaigns gathered outside Central Park Greyhound Stadium in Sittingbourne calling for an end to greyhound racing, citing animal welfare concerns and rising track‑related deaths. Counter-protesters attended but the event remained peaceful under police supervision. Arena Racing Company defended its welfare practices, highlighting inspections, safety measures and rehoming efforts, while campaigners argued the sport is outdated and unsafe as other parts of the UK move toward bans.

A lorry struck lighting fixtures inside the Medway Tunnel, prompting police and Medway Council to close the Strood-bound side for debris removal, repairs and safety checks. Traffic was heavily disrupted until the tunnel reopened in both directions shortly before 2pm. Officers remain on-site to manage congestion, and the incident follows a similar lorry-related damage case earlier in the year at the Dartford Tunnel.

A long‑established family‑run fish bar in Sittingbourne won the best dine‑in fish and chips category at the 2026 English Fish and Chip Awards, also placing second in two additional categories. Owner Andreas Matheou credited the achievement to customer support and plans a half‑price celebration day to mark both the award and the shop’s 30th anniversary.

A 22-year-old woman from Gravesend has been charged with murdering a British man in Dubai after alleging she acted in self-defence during a violent assault. The victim, Bill Treeby, was found dead after what she and her family describe as escalating abuse during her visit. Human rights group Detained in Dubai has called for her release on bail and a fair investigation, citing concerns about due process and her reported injuries. She remains in custody while the UK embassy provides support.

Police officers raided a home in Eastchurch following reports of drug dealing, forcing entry and discovering a large quantity of suspected cocaine along with electronic devices and paraphernalia. A 45‑year‑old woman was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply class A drugs and later released on bail while the investigation continues.

A long-closed bowling alley and arcade in Sheerness has reopened as the expanded Neptune Sports Lounge following a refurbishment exceeding £60,000. Owner Charlie Minta moved the club to the Beachfields site after losing the lease at its previous location and carried out extensive upgrades including new electrics, flooring, a bar area, additional pool and snooker tables, and an enlarged darts section. The venue now offers significantly more space and amenities, with ongoing improvements planned over the coming year.

A burst water pipe forced the Swallows Leisure Centre in Sittingbourne to close, with repairs beginning after issues emerged on June 22. The centre announced it will remain shut through June 24 for safety, with updates on reopening expected afterward. Staff are contacting affected clubs and customers, and credits will be reviewed once the closure’s duration is known.

Multiple planning applications have been submitted to Swale Council, including a proposal from Nationwide Building Society to install a defibrillator and bleed kit on Sheerness High Street. Other submissions include converting a Sittingbourne property into an Ofsted‑registered children’s care home, retrospective permission for a Traveller site in Ospringe, new residential and self‑build homes, outbuildings in Graveney, and various extensions, agricultural buildings and property conversions across the area.

Plans are underway for a trio of bronze steel pillars designed by artist Bruce Williams to be installed outside the new Lidl supermarket being built at Cowstead Corner on Sheppey. The artwork, inspired by the Sheerness Dockyard Church and referencing the island’s naval heritage, awaits approval from Swale Council. Construction follows years of legal disputes involving Tesco and Aldi, which twice resulted in planning permission being overturned by the High Court before final approval was granted in 2025. Lidl has begun building the store, expected to create up to 40 jobs, though its opening date remains unconfirmed.

Planning rules in Swale will tighten after councillors unanimously backed an Article 4 Direction requiring planning permission for all new houses in multiple occupation. The move responds to residents’ concerns over density, waste and parking pressures, particularly in Sheerness. Councillors argued that reduced availability of one‑bedroom homes has driven HMO growth, with claims that landlords’ targeting of vulnerable tenants is predatory. The new measure removes permitted development rights and gives the planning committee full oversight of future HMO proposals.

Emergency services responded to a collision in Bluebell Close in the Thistle Hill area of Minster, where a woman in her 30s was injured. An air ambulance landed shortly after 2.30pm and departed around 3.10pm. Police confirmed they were called just before 2pm and that inquiries are ongoing, while paramedics transported the woman to hospital.

A 17-year-old girl died at Teynham Railway Station after being struck by a train, with emergency services responding around midday on June 11. British Transport Police stated the incident was not suspicious and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Train services between Faversham and Gillingham were disrupted until the evening.

A Sittingbourne pub has seen business rebound following a £50,000 renovation introduced by new landlord George Davies. The revamp included the creation of a restaurant, upgraded interiors, improved outdoor space and added entertainment options. Increased footfall is credited to the refreshed facilities, major football events and nearby housing development, with customer numbers rising steadily and former regulars returning.