Paddock Wood residents pay tribute to their snow heroes

COMMUNITY heroes have emerged throughout the Paddock Wood area as residents struggle to combat the most sustained period of snowy weather in 30 years.

With the authorities facing a daily battle to keep roads open, residents have been called upon to make their own arrangements to make pavements passable.

Vital services, including meals-on-wheels, have also soldiered on through the tricky conditions.

In Paddock Wood, Allington Road resident Peter Wadey has been helping staff at the Woodlands health centre keep their entrance clear each morning.

Retired Mr Wadey, 65, said: "It's just something that I do. If it stops one old person falling over and breaking their hip then it has got to be worth it."

Surgery manager Sarah Crouch said: "He works tirelessly. The minute we have snow or ice he is out cleaning the paths before any of us get to work."

At Mascalls School in Maidstone Road, caretaking staff and local volunteers including a farmer with a tractor worked until 10pm on Sunday and early Monday to ensure the school could reopen after three days.

School manager Guy Gore said: "A lot of people went to a lot of trouble to get us open again."

In Horsmonden, Goudhurst Road resident Diane Baylis paid tribute to Heath Stores proprietors Ian and Penny Comley who have been outperforming the big supermarkets.

Ms Baylis said: "People have come from many far-off places to shop here because somehow their shelves are full. They have been absolutely amazing."

But Mr Comley, 66, modestly put his success down to the support of local suppliers.

He said: "We are just looking after the village. Hopefully, they will realise they have a very good shop here and will continue to support it."

It was a similar story in Brenchley where resident Sophie Hamer applauded the efforts of two village businesses.

Mrs Hamer said: "Our post office and butcher's have been absolutely fantastic.

"In times like this our post office is an absolute lifeline."

Postmistress Christine King, 61, said: "We have made an effort to stock more foodstuffs, including bread, which we wouldn't normally keep.

"Trade has improved quite a bit – it's just a shame it can't be like this all year round!"

Pay tribute to local heroes who have helped you in the big freeze at www.thisiskent.co.uk/ paddockwood