Why were two pensioners threatened with fines by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council?

The pensioners were threatened with fines because they left donation bags for charity outside their homes, which the enforcement firm Kingdom, on behalf of the council, deemed a waste offence.

What was the council's response to the threatened fines issued to pensioners for charity donations?

The council leader apologized for the distress caused and stated that the kerbside charity collections should not have resulted in enforcement action, confirming the fines were rescinded.

Who is Tree of Hope charity mentioned in the article?

Tree of Hope is a charity that supports families in securing funding, resources, and support for seriously ill and disabled children and young people.

Home / Crime and Justice / Pensioners Fined for Charity Donations: Council Apologizes

Pensioners Fined for Charity Donations: Council Apologizes

19 Feb

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Summary

Two elderly neighbours were threatened with large fines for donating charity bags.
The council admitted the fines were issued inappropriately and apologized.
Fines were rescinded after public outcry and council intervention.

Pensioners Fined for Charity Donations: Council Apologizes

Two pensioners in Tonbridge, Kent, faced the threat of hefty fines for attempting to donate clothing to a children's charity. Barbara Wheeler, 73, and her neighbour Margaret Bull, 84, placed bags of clothes by the pavement for the Tree of Hope charity. Weeks later, they received letters from enforcement firm Kingdom, acting for Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, alleging waste offences. Ms. Wheeler was warned of potential legal action and a £1,000 fine, while Ms. Bull was issued a £300 Fixed Penalty Notice.

The council leader, Matt Boughton, issued a sincere apology for the distress caused by the fines. He confirmed that the council had met with Kingdom to understand the decisions behind the penalty notices, acknowledging that these kerbside charity collections should not have led to enforcement action. The council is urgently reviewing the circumstances to prevent recurrence and is working with the residents. It has been reported that the fines have been rescinded.

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