A Festive and Community-Filled Few Weeks

The last few weeks have been wonderfully busy and truly festive! I was delighted to open this year’s Christmas Donation Hub at The Mall, a joint initiative between Maidstone Borough Council and The Mall, giving Maidstone Charities a welcoming space to collect donations. I was also honoured to switch on Maidstone’s Town Centre Christmas Lights, together with the cast of the Hazlitt Christmas pantomime.

The following week brought the Christmas lights switch-on at Cavell Park Care Home and The Music Man’s project Christmas concert – an inspiring event supporting people with learning difficulties, beautifully accompanied by the Maidstone Salvation Army. 

Saturday saw the Dick Whittington Panto VIP Opening Night at the Hazlitt Theatre, always a highlight of the season. On Sunday, I attended the Heart of Kent Hospice “Light up a Life” service, a moving time for reflection and remembrance for loved ones who are no longer with us but whose light still shines in our hearts.

Recent engagements have also included –

• Hi Kent AGM
• South Park Community coffee morning
• Switch Youth Services visit
• Mayor of Ashford’s charity lunch at the London Beach Hotel, featuring King of Queen tribute acts. 
• Walk in my Shoes event by Kent Arts and Wellbeing, an insightful activity raising awareness of living with dementia.

Looking ahead

This week promises to be another busy one, I will be attending:

• The induction mass and reception for Fr Oliver Antao, the new priest of the Roman Catholic Parish of Bearsted and Harrietsham.
• The Maidstone Singers Annual Christmas Concert.
• The Mayor of Swanley’s Charity Event at Eagle Heights, supporting ADSS (Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Services).
• Kent County Agricultural Society quarterly meeting.
• Lydd Town Council Christmas Concert, performed by the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas.
• A memorial Christmas concert at All Saints Church, organised by local Funeral Directors.

As we enjoy the joy and brightness of Christmas, let us also hold in our hearts those for whom this season brings sadness or struggle. My thoughts are with all who are finding things difficult at this time of year, and that includes myself. 

Three Weeks of Community, Culture and Remembrance

It has been a busy and inspiring few weeks across Maidstone and beyond, with events that have truly reflected the spirit, diversity, and kindness of our community.

A super Start at the Theatre

What a wonderful evening at the Hazlitt Theatre for the Sound of Music VIP opening night! It was a fantastic performance full of talent and energy, congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this classic story to life on our local stage.

Honouring Service and Sacrifice

The Poppy Appeal Launch at County Hall was a moving reminder of the importance of remembrance and the incredible work of the Royal British Legion. It is always humbling to see the continued support from our community for veterans and their families.

I also joined the Festival of Remembrance at Rochester Cathedral, a poignant evening of music, reflection and gratitude with some super contributions including from friends musically and a chance to meet other friends and associates of many years. I also received a few compliments myself, for efforts to Veterans and mental health awareness.  

This coming Sunday I will be honoured to give a reading and lay a wreath at the Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service starting at the Town Hall, before taking the salute as the parade passes. These moments of unity and remembrance are at the heart of our civic life.

World Stroke Day

I had the pleasure of meeting staff and local groups at Cavell Park Care Home for World Stroke Day. Hearing first-hand about their work to support stroke survivors and their families was inspiring, a reminder of the dedication and compassion that runs through our local care community and so many volunteers that contribute to such work. 

Celebrating Diwali – The Festival of Lights

This year’s Maidstone Indian Association Diwali Celebration was truly special. I had the privilege not only the attend but also to join in the drumming band, what a wonderful experience! It was a joyous evening filled with dance, song, delicious food, and friendship. Thank you to everyone who made it such a vibrant celebration, and a very Happy Diwali to all who celebrate.

Celebrating Local History at Penenden Heath

It was a lovely afternoon at Penenden Heath History Garden for the unveiling of the new sculpture. What made it especially memorable were the children from Penenden Heath Pre-School, whose smiles, excitement, and enthusiasm brought the event to life. Their pride in being park of something lasting was heart-warming, a memory they will share for years to come!

A Busy Week Ahead

The next week promises to be equally full and rewarding:

• The All Souls Day Service and Luncheon at the Rochester Bridge Chapel and Chamber. This is a significant historic event that has been part of Kent history for over 500 years, when Maidstone and Rochester were the responsible "agents" for the Medway river and worked with the Kings Dockyard at Chatham and the masters of the Thames, that took on navigation responsibility from Gravesend onwards. (now known as Pilots).  
• Ebbsfleet United vs Maidstone United, organised by the Royal British Legion, where I’ll join others in observing a minute’s silence before the game, the 1st Round of the FA Cup.
• The National Fruit Show organised by those for the County Show at Detling Showground but in Marden– including the President’s breakfast and show opening. This has real family connection for me: my father was associated with this and took me to the shows from 1963 and onwards for many years (he always felt I should know about fruit quality and food generally, as a child) but in 1965 : 60 years ago, he asked me to test an apple in a "close tie" for best apple .....I tasted several but all the whole apples! I was only supposed to take a bite! 
• The Mayor of Bromley’s Charity Evening at The Warren.
• The Provincial Grand Master’s Charity Awards at The Great Danes Hotel, where I’ll be speaking about my chosen charities.
• And finally, the Young Farmers 80th AGM and Award Evening at the Kent Showground, another of my chosen charities, doing wonderful work with young people in our rural communities.

 

These past few weeks have truly shown the strength, kindness, and diversity of our community, from theatre and history to remembrance and celebration. I’m so grateful to everyone who makes the Borough of Maidstone such a vibrant and caring place to live.

W/c 22nd September 2025.

Carrying the Baton of Hope in Maidstone

 
Last week I had the great honour of carrying the Baton of Hope from Maidstone Town Hall to Mote Park. It was a privilege to take part in such a powerful event, one dedicated to raising awareness of suicide and supporting those whose lives have been touched by it.
 
Along the route, I met families who have suffered unimaginable loss. Their stories were deeply moving and extremely sad, yet each one was shared with incredible courage and a determination to bring about change. Despite their grief, they carry something stronger – hope. Hope that what has happened to their loved ones will not happen to anyone else.
 
Events like the Baton of Hope remind us that raising awareness is key. Too many lives are lost to suicide, and together we must continue to speak openly, listen compassionately, and ensure help is available for those who need it.
 
I am grateful to everyone who welcomed me at the event and shared their experiences.


You will be able to catch some video on Facebook Baton of Hope, or Maidstone Borough Council and my personal page.


https://www.facebook.com/maidstoneboroughcouncil
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September so far!

Weald of Kent Ploughing Match

On Saturday I had the pleasure of attending the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match – one of the highlights of the rural calendar and a wonderful celebration of our farming community.

This year’s event was especially meaningful for me as it was held in my home village of Headcorn. Despite the rain setting in for most of the morning and the ground turning very wet underfoot, the atmosphere was as warm and welcoming as ever. It was a great opportunity to speak with farmers, landowners and rural businesses about the challenges and opportunities they face.

The event was extremely well attended, and it was a privilege to catch up with so many dedicated members of our agricultural community. 

In true countryside style, the weather added a little extra drama – even the Mayoral car found itself stuck in the mud! Thanks to some good humour and teamwork, we managed to get moving again, which only added to the spirit of the day.

My thanks go to the hosts, organisers, volunteers and everyone who made this year’s ploughing match such a success. Rain or shine, it is always a pleasure to celebrate the essential work our farming community does to feed us and care for our countryside.

I am already looking forward to next year’s ploughing match, which will mark the WKPMA’s 80th anniversary – a wonderful milestone for this much-loved event.

No One Here is Me – A Powerful Play on Male Suicide

I was deeply moved to attend a performance of “No One Here is Me,” a play created and produced by Sarah Winn and Colette Robertson. The production tackles the difficult but vital subject of male suicide, drawing on true events to shine a light on an issue that affects far too many families and communities.

Coming so soon after Suicide Awareness Day last week, the play was especially poignant. It was a stark reminder of the importance of talking openly about mental health, challenging stigma, and ensuring that support is available for those who need it most.

I was also delighted to see Deputy Lieutenant Victoria Wallace representing the Lieutenancy at the show.

The performance was powerful, thought-provoking and full of meaning. My thanks go to the writers, cast and all involved in bringing this important story to the stage. By raising awareness and encouraging conversations, they are helping to make a real difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please do reach out. There are organisations and people ready to listen and to help. Support is available:

• Samaritans – call 116 123 (free 24/7) or visit www.samaritans.org
• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably – all 0800 585858 or visit www.thecalmzone.net
• Mind – call 0300 123 3393 or visit www.mind.org.uk

Let’s keep the conversation going and ensure that no one feels they have to suffer in silence.

Possibly the Busiest Mayor in August!

August is usually a quieter month in the mayoral calendar, but this year it was a whirlwind of activity! I’ve even been told I might be the busiest Mayor ever in August. Here’s a look back at a limited snapshot of what I’ve been up to:

Saturday 9th August – Swan Upping

I had the honour of taking part in the annual Mayor’s Cruise of Survey – better known as Swan Upping. You may know that the King owns all unmarked swans in England and Wales, with one exception: the Mayors of Maidstone and Medway, who were granted this privilege in 1619 by King James I. Together with the Mayor of Medway, I counted the swans along the River Medway and continued the tradition of toasting each other at the old borough boundary stone. A big thank you to our hosts, Hampstead and Yalding Cruising Club.

Wednesday 13th August – Lullingstone Manor House:

A fascinating tour given by Tom Hart Dyke as he celebrated the 20th anniversary of the World Gardens.

Thursday 14th August – A Day of Reflection and Remembrance

• President’s Lunch at Mote Cricket Club, with High Sheriff Jonathan Neame.
• VJ Day Commemoration Service at Brenchley Gardens, an evening of remembrance with silence at 7pm, followed by moving music from Medway Concert Brass.

Friday 15th August – VJ 80

• Flag Raising Ceremony at County Hall
• Celebrations at Poplars Care Home, marking the day with residents and staff.

Tuesday 19th August – Citizens Advice Bureau

Pre-meeting with the CEO and Chair of the Trustee Board ahead of their upcoming AGM.

Wednesday 20th August – Audley Mote House

A warm welcome from residents as I gave a talk about the duties of a Mayor. 

Thursday 21st August – Open-Air Theatre

The Wind in the Willows, performed by Hazlitt Theatre’s summer tour. I was thrilled that this tour came to Headcorn this year, and it was a huge sell out success!

Friday 22nd August – Celebrations and Fireworks

• Venture Photography – marking the studio’s 3rd anniversary with staff and even a mini photoshoot.
• Swanley Town Council’s 1812 Night – an evening of music from the Eynsford Concert Band and fireworks in the park.

Sunday 24th August – Family Fun Day at Great Danes Mercure Hotel

Family Fun Day at Great Danes Mercure Hotel. Fundraising for the Medway African Caribbean Association – bringing communities of Maidstone, Medway and surrounding areas together. It was great to have MACA in my “back yard.” Great Danes has been part of my life since I was a child and it’s very local for me – I am a member of the Sports Club there! But it was great to have MACA there today and wonderful to meet so many super projects and businesses. You can see the picture of me holding a very large albino python, what a beautiful reptile.

  

Thursday 28th August – Triumph of Grace Ministries Youth Summer Event

The Grand Finale Awards Ceremony – a celebration of energy, talent, and community spirit.

Friday 29th August – Mayor of Dartford’s Charity Event

An outdoor bowls evening raising funds for RBLI, Teenage Cancer Trust, and the Sea Cadets.

Saturday 30th August – Festivals and Models

• Faversham International Hop Festival. Faversham was buzzing, it was a great festival with much to eat and drink as well as various music acts and fringe activities.
• Southern Model Show at Headcorn Aerodrome – incredible displays of model cars, lorries, boats, planes, and trains.

Sunday 31st August – Annual Mayor’s Parade

An honour to present awards and promotions at the Army Youths Annual Mayor’s Parade at Boughton Monchelsea Recreation Ground.

 

With such a packed schedule, I was glad I managed to fit in a little holiday at the start of the month! I drove down to Biscarrosse, just south of Bordeaux, for a week of sunshine, great food and some rest & recuperation.

 

Looking Ahead – September

September brings an important focus on mental health.

• Baton of Hope – Coming to Maidstone on 22nd September. This national initiative raises awareness of suicide prevention. The baton will be carried by people affected or bereaved by suicide, including myself. I’ll be honoured to carry it from The Town Hall to Mote Park, where a day of activities will follow.
• The play “No One Here Is Me” by Sarah Winn, which is in support of the Baton of Hope, will be performed next Friday 12th September at both Canterbury Christchurch University and Mid Kent College Maidstone. This powerful play is about men’s mental health and addressing key aspects, it will make anybody that sees it come to some sort of realisation. It may create empathy, it may shock, hopefully it will create a reaction for positive benefits.
• I will be attending the Weald of Kent Ploughing Match at a dear friend’s farm in my own home village. I am especially proud that this event is happening locally during my mayoral year!

 

What a month August was! Thank you to everyone who welcomed me into their events, traditions, and celebrations. September promises to be just as meaningful.

The Summer Holidays are more or less over!

You can probably tell by the lack of posts for the summer holiday period that I have both had a holiday and been busy!

There will be more to say and report soon! Meanwhile some of us have been setting up an event that I really care about:Mental Health and well being especially of the young .....and trying to prevent self-abuse of all kinds, or suicide. 

Only some people know that Mental Health & wellbeing features in my life in several ways. My mother was a Senior Psychiatric Manager, so that got me started in awareness, but I was always aware of more;in life and for most people. Years in the hospitality and food industries seem to make me very people aware; A "people person". After my own coming to terms with numerous issues, including a very severe road traffic collision - and not only major physical injuries that I have to live with, but radical mental effects - I then went into Mental Health as a profession, advising & supporting people. I moved on into more economic and business focussed enterprises, where I ultimately finished my full time working carreer at Mid Kent College at both Maidstone & the University/College campus at Chatham. 

Obviously I had seen or been fairly close to lots of trauma, tragedy, trials, severe illness and hardship, poor health, ageing and death and some difficult times either personally or through professional and social connections, probably more than most. I was both resilient or hardy to some matters whilst also empathetic or extra sensitive and even "touchy". Even the subject of premature death & suicide amongst friends & family had been TOO close. 

BUT it was there at Mid Kent College where I lost a close male colleague. He had all to live for. He loved his work and we thought other aspects of his life were going well for him, but he committed suicide. 

My name is Round, what comes round, goes round! How wonderful it is that Mid Kent College are hosting this incredibly good insight into a serious issue. As Mayor I have wanted this production to be seen AND FELT by more and more.

This play will make you think, it will provide some realisation. I hope it will find some hope and ways to address a serious issue. 

Please join me and support this if you can.  Check it out on Eventbrite FOR FREE. 

Press release 14/07/2025 by Maidstone BC

 

🐘 We’re celebrating 70 years since the formation of Cobtree Charity Trust Limited and Cobtree Manor Estate Trust, founded by Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, with a stunning new sculpture!

🌳 Crafted from sustainable materials by talented artists Rob Smith and Kurtis Young, this delightful elephant artwork was officially unveiled by the Mayor of hashtag#Maidstone Borough Council, Councillor Martin Round today.

Come see it for yourself and be part of the celebration.

📸 1/3 The Trustees of the Cobtree Charity Trust, 2/3 Artist Rob Smith with Councillor Martin Round 3/3 The sculpture