The Annual Meeting of Stone Parish was held by the Council this week, bringing together local residents, community leaders, and dedicated volunteers to celebrate the achievements, resilience, and collaborative spirit that define the parish of Stone.
The Annual Meeting has historically been a chance for residents of the parish to come together and hear updates from the council and other groups from the past year. With communication between councils and electors now being much quicker and often digital, the annual meeting has somewhat lost its purpose, so this year with the introduction of the Stone Community Champion Awards, a new initiative looking to celebrate some of the selfless and committed individuals and groups who help to make Stone a better place.
Reflecting on a Year of Growth and Community Service
Chairperson, Councillor Jessica McQueen gave an Annual Report, which highlighted a year marked by development and dedication. Among the major milestones was progress on the Recreation Ground Masterplan, set to complete this summer with new amenities including Lizzie’s Café, a pump track, performance stage, pathways, and sustainability upgrades like solar arrays and battery storage as well as the planting of hundreds of trees.
While some community events were restructured due to the works, alternative celebrations such as an indoor Easter programme and the successful Christmas Market at The Claire Tiltman Centre and Santa’s annual tractor trail ensured continued engagement.
The Council also honoured the memory of Cllr Peter Harman who unexpectedly passed away last year, honouring his years of devotion and hard work in the community. Grounds Manager Matt Pearce was recognised for his 20-year service and the Council reaffirmed its commitment to heritage through its continued efforts to acquire the Lads of the Village pub. Support for St Mary’s Church’s Lantern Community Centre project also underscored the Council’s dedication to strengthening local initiatives.
Community Grants Boost Local Projects
Two local groups were presented with Community Grant cheques to support their vital work.
Stone Dartford Scout Group was awarded £480 to upgrade lighting in their hall. The group serves young people aged 4–18 through an inspiring programme that develops life skills and encourages community contribution. The improvements will create a more functional and welcoming environment for their seven thriving sections. Cllr David Mote, a representative for the Scout Group thanked members for awarding the grant, commenting that the upgraded lighting would be a big upgrade, both economically and environmentally and that it would be nice to have lights that could not be broken by rogue footballs!
Friends of Rainbow Lodge, a charity raising funds for the Tree Tops Short Break Unit in Dartford, received £250 to purchase sensory toys and materials for children and young people with disabilities or vulnerabilities. Mariama Addo, manager of the Tree Tops Short Break Unit was in attendance and explained how these sensory tools serve to enhance the children’s experiences and help improve their quality of life.
Councillor Penny Cole Honoured for Public Service
A special moment of the evening was the presentation of the Exceptional Public Service Award to Cllr Penny Cole.
For 16 years, Penny served as the Kent County Council representative for Stone, demonstrating unwavering dedication to our community. As the Member for Dartford East and Deputy Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, she worked closely with businesses, community leaders, and residents to help make Dartford East a thriving and supportive place to live and work.
Penny has been a vital link between the County and the Parish, providing regular updates to the Council and supporting its work on the ground. She actively volunteered at key community events such as the Seniors of Stone and Stone Fete, showing her commitment well beyond official duties.
Notably, Penny helped secure funding for a number of community projects in the parish—including supporting the Council in providing Christmas hampers to vulnerable residents during the pandemic, a gesture that brought comfort and connection at a time of deep uncertainty.
Her public service is marked by honesty, pragmatism, and genuine care for local people, leaving a lasting legacy in Stone.
Penny Cole thanked the Council for their kind words and reflected on her many years in post, commenting that it had been a pleasure working alongside councillors and staff alike and with so many exciting projects and events coming up, she couldn’t wait to see what was next for Stone.
Introducing the First Stone Community Champions
The highlight of the evening was the launch of the Stone Community Champion Awards, honouring individuals and groups nominated by Stone residents for their extraordinary contributions:
Kathryn Swanston and Maggie Jarvis
Two shining examples of environmentally driven community leadership are Kathryn Swanston and Maggie Jarvis of Stone St Mary’s Church. Their shared commitment to sustainability has sparked positive change within both the church and the wider parish.
Kathryn, a Licensed Lay Minister and Eco-Church champion, has been pivotal in securing Bronze and Silver Awards for the church’s eco-initiatives—with Gold firmly on the horizon. Through her leadership of the church’s eco-committee, Kathryn has embedded the message that environmental stewardship is a spiritual responsibility, helping to transform mindsets within the faith community.
Alongside her is Maggie Jarvis, a long-serving churchwarden and passionate allotment gardener. Together, the pair have transformed the churchyard into a beacon of biodiversity, introducing initiatives such as “No Mow May” and “Let It Bloom in June.” Their efforts go beyond planting—they’ve led reflective events like This Little Plot and maintain an active presence on social media, using it to amplify national ecological campaigns and inspire others.
Steve Wall
Steve Wall of Borland Close has demonstrated remarkable initiative and dedication in caring for his local environment—entirely off his own back. In a part of Worcester Park not covered by council maintenance, Steve took it upon himself to reclaim a neglected stretch between Steele Avenue and Borland Close.
Despite having an artificial lawn at home, Steve purchased a lawnmower to tend to the area, regularly cutting the grass and removing overgrowth. In one recent week alone, he cleared ten sacks of green waste. His proactive efforts also include liaising with local officers to ensure waste collections are timely, leaving the area clean and welcoming.
Thanks to Steve’s commitment, the estate has gone from a hotspot for littering to a source of community pride.
Sarah Gaimster
In Worcester Park, Sarah Gaimster is a familiar and much-valued figure. As the driving force behind the area’s Facebook community page, she plays a crucial role in keeping residents informed and engaged.
Sarah’s contribution goes far beyond the screen. She regularly organises litter picks, reports fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour, and champions local businesses—from independent traders to pop-up food stalls. Her energy and passion for community spirit have helped build a stronger, cleaner, more connected Worcester Park.
Dartford Animal Rescue Team
Founded in 2021 by Ciara O’Hare, the Dartford Animal Rescue Team has grown into a dedicated network of wildlife rehabilitators, veterinary professionals, trained rescuers, and volunteers. Their mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, rehome or release animals of all kinds—from horses to hamsters.
The team operates year-round, showing extraordinary care and professionalism in every rescue. Whether it’s responding to wildlife emergencies or offering long-term care for domestic animals, their work speaks volumes about their compassion and dedication. Ciara O’Hare accepted the Community Champion Award on behalf of the entire team.
Vicki Maddison
Vicki Maddison’s commitment to keeping Stone clean has made her a local hero. Focused particularly on the area around Stone Crossing, Vicki’s voluntary litter picking has had a tangible impact.
In just three weeks, she collected 33 bags of rubbish and several large, discarded items—an impressive feat by any standard. Her consistent efforts not only improve the environment but also inspire others to take pride in their community. Vicki exemplifies what it means to lead by doing.
Councillor McQueen awarded each of the Stone Community Champions on behalf of the Council, thanking them for their efforts and brought the Annual Meeting to a close.
If you know someone who is deserving of being called a Stone Community Champion, nominations are open all year round. Email clerk@stoneparishcouncil.com or contact us through social media.
To apply for a Community Grant, visit our website for more details