COMMUNITY NEWS

Aldington

Correspondent: Alison Baldwin, Church Hill Cottage, Church Lane, Aldington, TN25 7EG Mob: 07949561489 alison@coastcommunications.co.uk

If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Appledore

Correspondent: Ruth Smith, Griffin Park Cottage, Tenterden Road, Appledore, TN26 2AP Tel: 01233 758564 ruthasmith@sky.com Appledore Clubs: Appledore has many and varied clubs and societies, some of which get little mention in the Press.

The Appledore and District Riding Association runs training and fun events for young riders in the area.

For further details ring 07795957488. The bell-ringers ring the Church bells every Sunday, for weddings and funerals, and for special events. They also visit other belfries and have quite a jolly social life as well. Bell ringing is excellent exercise. For more details contact 758731. The Ramblers walk on the third Friday afternoon of the month. In the winter, they meet at the Recreation Ground at 1pm. They visit many of the local footpaths and other interesting walks locally. Tuesday nights, the Rock and Pop Choir meet in the Village Hall, 7-8pm. This group is part of a larger Marsh Choir, who put on occasional concerts. The last concert in Lydd Church was packed out and a collection was taken for CARM, our local charity for the elderly. No previous experience or training is required. The Art Club used to meet in Appledore, but recently moved to Stone. They meet on a Tuesday afternoon 1-4pm. For details ring 758952.

Book Club: Wednesday, Black Lion. They so enjoyed October ‘s Book - Hiding the Past, by Nathan Dylan Goodwin, that they decided to read the next in the series, The Lost Ancestor. These books revolve around the work of a forensic genealogist, a field none of us had heard of. The stories are based locally, which gave added interest. Currently there are seven in the series and some of our keen readers are well into the series.

Ashford

Correspondent: Emily Neighbour Tel: 01233 664673 eaneighbour@gmail.com If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Biddenden

Correspondent: Sian Walker, 2 Standen Cottages, Smarden Road, Biddenden, TN27 8JT Tel: 01580 291389 Sian_walker@hotmail. co.uk

Biddenden Neighbourhood Watch: The Bakehouse has very kindly agreed to host the monthly surgery. This will be on Friday November 29, 10am. If you have any concerns about crime in the village or surrounding area or if you have any issues which you wish to discuss (in confidence if preferred) please come along. You can also arrange to receive email notifications about crime trends in the area and precautions that can be taken.The more members we have the better we will be able to help each other in the community to prevent and discourage crime.

NHW can be contacted on 01580291931, speak to Adrian Lidgett, who is also one of your Parish Councillors.

The Biddenden Horticultural: Society meet in the New Village Hall, Wednesday November 27, 7.15pm. This will be our last meeting of the year. We start the evening with our very short AGM, and this will be quickly followed by the Quiz and Cheese and Wine buffet. Members £4, Non members £5. Bookings for catering purposes taken up to November 24. Contact Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931.

Bonnington

Correspondent: Alison Baldwin, Church Hill Cottage, Church Lane, Aldington, TN25 7EG Mob: 07949561489 alison@coastcommunications.co.uk

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Boughton Aluph

Correspondent: Ann Hardie Tel: 01233 636535 annshardie@gmail.com

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Brabourne and Smeeth

Correspondent: Sue Wood, 14 Sandyhurst Lane, Westwell, Ashford Tel: 01233 623902 susanwood@uwclub.net Parish Council meeting: Smeeth PC met in Brabourne Baptist Church on Wednesday November 6.

The meeting began with a presentation on Local Needs Housing (LNH) by Tessa O’Sullivan, Rural Housing Enabler with ACRK (Action for Communities in Rural Kent and based at Penstock Hall). Miss O’Sullivan explained what LNH is, who provides it and who is eligible. A survey in 2011 in Brabourne and Smeeth showed a need for 40 homes, it is thought that there is still a need for LNH but the current figure is not known. A search for potential sites was carried out by the PCs given the results of the

2011 survey, but landowners of suitable sites were unwilling to sell – to be financially viable an LNH scheme must acquire land below its market value. The situation has since changed with the publication of the BC’s Local Plan to 2030 and village confines having been drawn. Another search for sites will be carried out. After approval of the Minutes of the September meeting, Matters Arising were discussed. These included the parking ban on Woolpack Hill during the gas main works; S106 monies from the Church Road development; no date has yet been set for a meeting of the KCC Regulation Panel to decide the village green application for Hospital Field; the new electronic newsletter for both PCs will be launched at the end of November, subscribers can sign up using Facebook, email or from the Community websites. Finance: Payments were authorised and it was agreed to give a donation of £100 to the Scouts and Guides for their help in distributing flyers for the PCs newsletter. The draft Budget for 2020-2021 was presented; councillors were asked to review the proposals and bring suggestions for new projects to the January meeting, at which the Precept will be set.

Planning: A new procedure for handling planning applications has been introduced – hyperlinks to applications are sent to all councillors for comment. Contentious applications will be discussed at a full meeting of the PC, with an extension sought to the consultation period when necessary. Five planning applications were reported at the meeting, of which the PC objected to one. The BC has been advised of the PCs intention to draw up a joint Neighbourhood Plan; the next step is to draw up a map of the area covered by the Plan. Proposals for The Plough Inn were presented at a meeting of Brabourne PC on October 29 and the planning application will be submitted in mid-November. Links to planning applications are being posted on the Community Facebook page for a trial period, but with commenting turned off. Highways: The gas main works were completed in Bridge Road without too much disruption, efforts were made to maintain access; J10A is partially open; Operation Brock has been suspended. Speedwatch sessions are planned for mid-November/December. Community Led Plan: Planting of bulbs has been scheduled and donations of more bulbs would be welcome. Children from Brabourne School will assist with this and planting of new planters at Brabourne Village Hall.

Caretaker scheme: The rideon mower and wood-chipper needed repairs; an account has been opened with a new firm based at Henwood for similar repairs and it is hoped they will be cheaper than the existing company. Other business: The PC adopted its Financial Risk Register, which arose from comments on discussion of financial risk by the external auditor. The Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary of the Playing Fields Association will step down in 2021, it is hoped that other Committee members will take on these roles. The Fireworks event on October 31 was a great success. The PC will be represented at the Remembrance Sunday service and lay a wreath. Fordreds Charity distribution was discussed in closed session.

The next meeting of the PC is January 8 2020 at 7pm in

Brabourne Baptist Church. All meetings are open to the public and all are welcome.

Monday Club: November

25, 7.30pm, the Oak Room for our Christmas Meeting. As there is no meeting in December we wish you all a very happy Christmas and look forward to seeing new members and guests next year. For more information please contact Kathy on 01233 503596.

Fridays at Three: The Oak Room, Friday November 29, 3pm. Bev Ingleton will be talking to us about working with children who are deaf and blind. If anyone would like a lift to and from the Oak Room please contact Di Dawson (01303 813398).

Gardeners Society: Friday November 29, village hall, Christmas Social evening, 7pm; this event is open to members only. Please ensure, for catering purposes, that Heather (01303 812740 hsmithson@yahoo.com) knows if you are attending or not. There will be no meeting in December. For any enquiries please contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or email brabournewendy@gmail.com or visit our new website at www. basgs.com.

Christmas Craft Fair: Saturday November 30, 10am12pm. There will be an array of locally home crafted products as gifts for you, your family and friends. Also, a collection of greetings cards and paper wrapping for all occasions. Children’s lucky dip. Entrance £1 to include a drink. In support of The Friends of St Mary’s Church, Brabourne.

Royal British Legion:

After a short but enjoyable Business meeting in October, the RBL swang into Remembrance mode for its November 5 meeting, starting with the AGM, and the search for new committee members and new members generally. Then final discussion regarding the annual Poppy Appeal. Our December meeting will be on Monday December 2, Brabourne Baptist Church, 2pm, with a Christmasthemed American lunch and entertainment. We welcome any members and visitors to join us and if any non-members would like to know more then please contact either George Taylor on 01303 812165 or Ron Cooper on 01303 813330.

Brook

Correspondent: Jane Burnham, 13 The Close, Wye, TN25 5BD Tel: 01233 812042 ja.burnham@btinternet. com

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Challock

Correspondent: Dianne Sandy, C/o Challock Post Office, The Lees, Challock, Ashford, TN25 4BP Mob: 07895494851 parishclerkchallockpc@ gmail.com

Friends of Kingswood: Winter Warmer Walks, Sunday November 24, 2-4pm. Meet at the main King’s Wood car park White Hill Road, Challock TN25 4AR for a leisurely walk around lesser known footpaths. Please dress for the weather. Text 07523 203458 or email enquiries@friendsofkingswood.org www.friendsofkingswood. org. Pay on the day £4 members and accompanied children free.

Mother & Toddler: Wednesdays during term time, 9.3011.30am. £1 per child, babies free, to include free snacks for children and coffee and biscuits for the mums. For details call Pat Feddon on 07813 625105 or email pat. rattlehalt@hotmail.co.uk

Charing

Correspondent: Anita & Dennis Gudge, Sherbourne House, 27 High Street, Charing, TN27 0HU Tel: 01233 714068 drgudge@gmail.com Charing Christmas Lights: Magical evening Christmas Fayre, Friday November 29, The Market Place and Church Barn, 6-8pm. Charing’s 2nd lights parade, prizes to be won, free entry (Entry forms available at Charing Post Office) Everyone invited to come along and watch. Faversham Mission brass band from 6pm. Coffee Morning Saturday November 30, Church Barn, 10.30am-12.30pm. Grand draw and prizes awarded for the Light Parade. Entrance £1 to include cup of coffee or tea and biscuits.

Charing Heath

Correspondent: Anita & Dennis Gudge, Sherbourne House, 27 High Street, Charing, TN27 0HU Tel: 01233 714068 drgudge@gmail.com

Coffee Morning: Thursday November 21, 11am-12pm, Memorial Hall

Chilham

100 Plus Club: Winners Friday November 15, £50 Mark Walker, £15 Judith Stanford and £10 Tim Brett.

Crundale

Correspondent: Carol Newton, Lamley Cottage, Canterbury Road, Godmersham, CT4 7DR Mob: 07768 074698 carolnewton84@gmail.com Theatre Comedy: Godmersham village hall, Saturday November 30, 7.30pm. A fantastic double bill from the Last Chance Saloon of The Curse of the Mummy plus Sherlock Holmes and the Blue Carbuncle. This is aimed at older children (10+) and families. There will also be a licensed bar. Tickets available from http:/ gcvh.info/whats-on/online-tickets.

Egerton

Correspondent: Heather James Tel: 01233 756501 clerk@egertonpc.kentparishes.gov.uk

Folk and Blues Club: Tuesday November 26, 8pm in the Barrow House.

Film Society: Thursday November 28, 7.30pm, the Millennium hall. ‘Woman at War’ will be showing. £4 members, £5 non-members. Licensed bar and light refreshments. Neighbourhood Plan: Saturday November 30, 10am4pm, the Millennium hall.

Join the working group and view the draft plan.

Elmsted

Vacancy: If you would like to be correspondent, please contact us by email: kmgvillages@thekmgroup. co.uk

Godmersham

Correspondent: Carol Newton, Lamley Cottage, Canterbury Road, Godmersham, CT4 7DR Mob: 07768 074698 carolnewton84@gmail.com Nativity Rehearsal: Calling all Children, Angels, Kings, Shepherds and Donkeys etc. Just a reminder that Christmas is coming, which means practicing for the special Godmersham Crib Service Nativity. Our first practice will probably be on Sunday November 24, when we will also prepare Pat’s special Christmas pudding - times and confirmation of actual date will be sent to all children on the email list. If you would like to take part please let Julie Knuckey know by email: knuckeyjulie@gmail.com or call on 07922 101738

Winter Warmer Walks: Sunday November 24, 2pm, the King’s Wood car park, White Hill Road, Challock. We will be taking a leisurely walk around lesser known footpaths. Text 07523 203458 or email enquiries@friendsofkingswood.org. £4 on the day.

Theatre Comedy: Village hall, Saturday November

30, 7.30pm. We welcome a fantastic double bill from the Last Chance Saloon of The Curse of the Mummy plus Sherlock Holmes and the Blue Carbuncle. This is aimed at older children (10+) and families. There will also be a licensed bar. Tickets are available from http:/gcvh.info/whats-on/ online-tickets.

Great Chart and Singleton

Correspondent: Aniko Szocs, Parish Office, Singleton Village Hall, Ashford, TN23 5LB Tel: 01233 616923 theclerkgcwspc@gmail.com Pop-up Cafe: and information hub, Great Chart Village Hall, Wednesday November 13, Wednesday December 11, Wednesday January 8, Wednesday February 12, Wednesday March 11. Come and get together with old friends and new. Have a cuppa and a delicious slice of cake. We’ll have all sorts of local information available or you can just come for a chat. Please help us to spread the word. Can’t get there under your own steam? Call us and we’ll see if we can help. Ani- Parish Clerk 01233 616923 or email to TheClerk@greatchartsingleton-pc.gov.uk

Repair Cafe Ashford: Have you got old furniture that needs a new lease of life? Don’t bin it, bring it to Singleton Environment Centre where the Repair Café can fix it for you. The Café operates in the afternoon, 1-4pm on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

Hamstreet/Snave

Correspondent: Rob Toal, The Haven, Warehorne Road, Hamstreet, TN26

2JT Mob: 07958 748087 Tel: 01233 733487 robtoal@me.com Bilsingtion Quiz Night: Bilsington Village Hall, Friday November 29, 7pm. £6 per head entry. Join a team or make a team (max 8). Licensed bar.

Advance tickets available, book by email at villagehallsec@hotmail.com or call Liz on 07736 062499.

A Songful Benefice: Please join us for an uplifting experience. A chance to enjoy traditional hymns and modern Church songs. Invitation to all especially villagers of the Saxon Shoreline (children to be accompanied by an adult please). St Matthew’s Church, Warehorne, TN26 2LP. November 24, 4.30pm for pre-refreshments: to sing 5-6pm.

Church Service: Holy Communion, Church of the Good Shepherd, Sunday November 24, 10.30am.

The Fun club for young people aged 3-10 years will meet at the same time.

Toy Service: The annual

Toy Service will be held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Sunday December 1, 10.30am. Gifts to be distributed to deprived children in South Ashford will be welcome.

Saint Matthews: Sunday November 24, Evensong, 6.30pm.

Charity Concert: Local charity Canterbury Oast Tust, which supports adults with a learning disability and is also known for running the Rare Breeds Centre, is organising a Christmas Concert on December 14 with the Kent Police Male Voice Choir.

Tickets £11, are already selling fast so please contact Margaret 01233 732684 to reserve yours.

Orlestone WI: Orlestone WI held their Annual Meeting last week, when a new committee was elected. Barbara Carroll takes the Chair as President as Joan Monsen has moved out of the area. While the new committee met to arrange duties for the forthcoming year, the rest of the members enjoyed games which were fun but challenging. The December meeting takes place on Monday December 9, 7.30pm in Victory Hall when we’ll enjoy a Wine and Wisdom evening. Alternative drinks are available, of course, as well as cheese platters. We’re hoping those will either help us to remember the answers or stop us being worried when we can’t. We arrange an outing every month and in November we enjoyed a private screening of ‘Cabaret’ at the Kino Cinema, Rye. In December we’ll be going to Scotney Castle to see the house bedecked for Christmas, then looking forward to a January lunch at Planters, Hurst Green.

All ladies are welcome to any of our meetings. Contact Margaret 01233 732684.

High Halden

Correspondent: David Holman Tel: 01233 850934 david.holman9@btinternet. com

Brews News: The Brews went top of the Premier Division with a 4-3 victory against Mersham. However, it was not all plain sailing as the visitors settled and adapted better to the small 3G pitch at Homewood School after the Brews had switched the game there with the Hopes Grove pitch waterlogged. The Brews did take the lead in the 16th minute when recent signing, Piers Fuchter, scored his first goal for the Brews against his former club. With both sides missing chances, it remained 1-0 at the break. Mersham got back on level terms five minutes into the second half when Rob Clark headed home from close range and they took the lead two minutes later with the impressive, Sam Wilson, firing home. The Brews were clearly rattled and they went 3-1 down when the unmarked Clark got his second following a corner. The Brews gradually composed themselves and they got a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty for a foul on skipper Gary Clarke in the 67th minute and he calmly slotted home the spot kick. With ten minutes left as the Brews continued to pile on the pressure,

Louis Plumridge’s cross was converted by Frank Godfrey for the equaliser and within a minute, it was Godfrey again who got onto a loose ball and fired home from 20 yards to snatch the 3 points to keep up the Brews 100% league record. This Sunday, November 24, the team travel to Cheriton to take on Nailbox.

Quiz Night : High Halden Memorial Hall, Saturday November 23, 7pm. £3pp with a table of 8. Please bring own food and drink. There will also be a raffle. For more information phone 01233 850127.

Hinxhill

Correspondent: Pat Smithers, 31 Cherry Glebe, Mersham, Ashford, TN25 6NL Tel: 01233 503375 chequertree.smithers720@ btinternet.com

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Hothfield

Correspondent: Paul Fothergill Tel: 01233 519457 paul.fothers@yahoo.co.uk If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Kenardington

Correspondent: Brenda Hedley Tel: 01233 733085 brenda.artlines@btinternet. com

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Kennington

Correspondent: Sandra Dunn, Heather Bell Orchard Lane, Kennington, Ashford, TN25 4DX Tel: 01233 634165 sandradunn@sky.com Communion Service: St Mary’s Community Centre, Rylands Road TN24 9LH, Sunday November 24, 12pm.

Walking for fitness: Mondays, 9.30am, ‘Conningbrook’ car park except the 1st and 3rd Mondays where they will meet at a different start point. This is a walking group set up under the NHS ‘Walking for health’ scheme and is for experienced walkers who’ll enjoy up to 2 hours of brisk walking over varied terrain, consequently walking boots or decent supportive trainers are a must. See Facebook ‘walking for fitness’ for updates or ring Sally for further details on 07545 980772.

Christmas Shopping Night: Friday November 29,

5.30pm, Kennington Hall, Canterbury Road, TN25

4EN. A great opportunity to meet local small businesses, indulge in succulent mince pies and purchase a few Christmas gifts. Please contact them for a stand on 07795 361431 or through their website: http://kennington-hall.co.uk/venue/ contact-us/

Christmas market: Saturday November 30, 2-4pm, St Mary’s Church and Church hall. Christmas raffle 1st prize £50 voucher for the harvester plus many more great prizes.

Christmas Fair: Sunday December 1, 11am-1pm,

Busy Bees, 11 Eureka Place, Trinity Road, TN25 4BY. To book a stall contact Jade or Chelsea on 01233 663386 or ashford.trinityroad@busybees.com. £10 per stall. All proceeds will be donated to Child Bereavement UK.

Advent Carol Service: Sunday December 1, 10am, St Mary’s Community Centre, Rylands Road, TN24 9LH.

Kennington WI: Annual Christmas Fayre, Saturday December 7, 2pm, WI Hall, 228 Faversham Road, TN24 9AS. There will be a tombola, grand raffle and refreshments plus of course a special visit from Father Christmas.

Kennington Community Council: has opened its Projects and Grants Scheme. They are inviting applications from organisations in the area to apply for a small grant of up to £500 to support the community generally or a group of people within it. Larger projects may attract a higher level of funding. Proposals received by Monday January 6 will be included in the first round of assessment. Further details are on their website at http://kenningtoncc.kentparishes.gov.uk/ home/grant-schemes/

Kingsnorth

Correspondent: Daisy Cumming Tel: 01233 635491 daisycumming@gmail.com Charity Christmas fair: Christmas fair, Saturday November 30, Kingsnorth School hall, Church Hill, 11am-1.30pm. Attractions include stalls, games, music, gifts, refreshments, bottle tombola and raffle. Father Christmas will be in his grotto. Entry by donation. Folk dance: Ashford Folk Dance Club welcomes new and experienced dancers with or without a partner to its country/folk dances. They dance a variety of styles and meet in the village hall, Church Hill, Wednesdays, 8-10pm. The next caller will be Jane Lowe. Details from Edna on 01233 627121 or email ejbone@tiscali.co.uk

Christmas concert: Saturday December 7, parish Church, 7.30pm. Free entry. Refreshments available. Listen and sing along to your favourite Christmas songs.

WI: Wednesday December 4, Cade Road Church hall, Kingsnorth Road, 10am for festive fun followed by the Christmas lunch. New members and visitors welcome. Details from Liz Taylor

01233 502721.

Christmas event: The Friends of Kingsnorth Medical Practice will be holding their annual Christmas event on Monday December 2 at the surgery, Ashford Road, 10am-4pm. Stalls will include an adults raffle, children’s raffle, handmade Christmas crafts, greetings cards, preserves, guess the weight of the cake, treasure hunt map, cuddly toy lucky draw. Funds raised will be put towards the purchase of an electronic couch for the medical practice. The Friends look forward to seeing you and appreciate your continued support.

Residents’ Association: Kingsnorth Residents Association believes that the new building developments currently being proposed will have a serious and significant impact on the village of Kingsnorth and surrounding countryside. If you have concerns about how the new builds will impact on you and your way of living and want to get involved, please email kingsnorthresidentsassociation@gmail.com. This is an independent association and membership is free.

Crime: Front and rear number plates were stolen from a Silver Toyota Argo in Romulus Gardens between 3pm on November 11 and 7.50am on November 12. A lap top and case, medication and documents were stolen from a car in Lodge Field between 6.30-7pm on November 11. If you have any information which may be useful to the investigation phone 101.

Little Chart

Correspondent: Kaye Sowden Mob: 07753 802814 kayesowden@yahoo.co.uk If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Mersham

Correspondent: Pat Smithers, 31 Cherry Glebe, Mersham, Ashford, TN25 6NL Tel: 01233 503375 chequertree.smithers720@ btinternet.com

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Molash

Correspondent: Geoff Jenkins, Kings View, Shottenden Lane, Molash, CT4 8EZ Tel: 01233 740598 geoff.jenkins195@btinternet.com

Church: Next Service at St Peter’s, Lay-Led Morning Worship 9.30am November 24.

Neihbourhood Watch: At a recent Coffee Morning staged by the Parish Council five more parishioners ‘signed-up’ to receive MHW information from the parish coordinator

Newchurch

Correspondent: Michael Barclay, Frostland Farm, Newchurch, Romney

Marsh, TN29 0DZ Mob: 07792 721312 Tel: 01303 872376 m-barclay2010@hotmail. co.uk

Village Hall: Village Hall urgently needs new committee members. Without volunteers to run the hall this facility will be lost along with all the clubs that use it. It is only 6 meetings per year. If you can help please come along to the AGM on Wednesday 27 November, 7.30pm in the committee room.

Alternatively contact Trevor on 01303 873754.

Newenden

Correspondent: Geoffrey Goodsell, 13 Levetts Lane, Bodiam, TN32 5UL Tel: 01580 830211

If you have an item concerning Newenden, please contact the correspondent above.

Sellindge

Correspondent: Nigel Fursdon, 3 Trust Cottages, Moorstock Lane, Sellindge Ashford, TN25 6LB Mob: 07437948509 nnwfursdon@aol.com

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Sevington

Correspondent: John Donovan, 24 Church Road, Ashford Tel: 01233 502440 If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Shadoxhurst

Flower club: First Wednesday of the month, village hall, 7.30pm. There will be a Christmas demonstration by Kathy Stangaard entitled Joyous Noel at the meeting on December 4.

The competition is Christmas sparkle.

The club welcomes donations for the sales, raffle and tombola stalls.

Smallhythe

Correspondent: Sue Ferguson sue@mytenterden.co.uk

The Wealden Consort: Saturday 30 November, 7pm, St Johns Church, Smallhythe, an evening of nostalgic and seasonal music with The Wealden Consort. Admission free, retiring collection, refreshments in the interval.

The Wealden Consort are a friendly, enthusiastic and accomplished choir of around 25 mixed voices, who enjoy coming together to make music and to perform concerts at charity fund raising events.

Correspondent: Eleanor Bliss Tel: 01233 770082 eleanorbliss1@gmail.com PARISH COUNCIL: The December meeting of the PC will now be held on December 16, at 7pm in The Charter Hall. Please note the change of date.

Christmas Tree Festival: Plans are well underway for the biennial Christmas Tree Festival to be held in the Parish Church, Friday December13-Sunday December 15. The doors will be open each day, 11am6pm. The Church will be filled with beautifully and creatively decorated trees, representing different families, groups and businesses in the area. Alongside the stalls selling Christmas Crafts and Produce, there will be refreshments (including mulled wine and mince pies), live music and a raffle. Come along and vote for your favourite tree. The results to be announced after the Village Carol Serve on Sunday December 15, 6.30pm.

Christmas Festival Concert: The wonderful

Rhythm of Life Choir will be performing a selection of Christmassy music at their concert on Saturday December 14 in the Parish Church, which will be sparkling and glittering with 33 trees decorated for the Christmas Tree Festival. Tickets available now in The West End House Gallery, or from members of the Committee. £8, plus £4 for students. Tickets can also be purchased at the door during the Festival, or on the evening of the concert. The concert begins at 7pm. Drinks available during the interval.

Christmas Lights: Friday November 29, Smarden Primary School. There will be a Christmas Fair, 5-7pm. The Advent Window Trail will be available. Father Christmas will arrive at

7pm and the lights will be switched on.

Hi Kent clinic: Monday December 2 will be the next opportunity to get your NHS batteries changed, tubes cleaned, or other assistance with hearing aids or hearing loss. No appointment needed. Turn up at The Charter Hall, 10-11.30am.

Cranbrook Town Band:

You are invited to join in with Carol Singing accompanied by the Band outside the Zion Chapel (inside if wet), Thursday December

19, 7.30pm. Refreshments offered afterwards. Information from brookeratheber@ btinternet.com

Fresh Christmas Wreaths: Order your door wreath now from Pat on 770557 or pat. palmer33@btinternet.com. Wreaths to be collected from the Parish Church during the Christmas Tree Festival.

Foodbank Donations: Did you know that there is a marked box at the rear of the Parish Church for donations to be made to support the Ashford Family Foodbank. Items are taken regularly to their offices, where they are redistributed to individuals and families

in need. You may consider doing a ‘Reverse Advent Calendar’ project, whereby you put aside one tin or packet each day in December, then bring your donations to Church. The Manager of the Foodbank said recently that January and February are always difficult times for those in food poverty.

St Michaels

Correspondent: Sue Ferguson sue@mytenterden.co.uk Christmas Lights On: Sunday December 1, 4pm, St Michaels Church and St Michaels Village Point. 4pm Welcome drinks and nibbles in St Michaels Church, 4.30pm Church service, candle-lit procession St Michaels Christmas Tree Switch On, up to St Michaels Village

Hall to meet Santa in his grotto, fun from Jonathan the Magician, disco, refreshments. The event is organised by St Michaels Village Community Group

Stone-in-Oxney

Correspondent: Susan Lowrie, Rose Cottage, Stone-inOxney Tel: 01233 758560 richardandsusan@btinternet.com

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Stubbs Cross

Correspondent: Daisy Cumming Tel: 01233 635491 daisycumming@gmail.com Coffee time: Wednesday November 27, mission hall, 10-11.30am in aid of the Royal British Legion. It will include a raffle, book stall, bric-a-brac table and used clothes rail. Free admission.

Tenterden

Correspondent: Sue Ferguson sue@mytenterden.co.uk Christmas Lights On!:

Friday 22 November, Nutcracker themed light parade, 4.30pm from Recreation Ground Road to the Town Hall where the Tenterden Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm, followed by a Christmas Lights Service in St Mildred’s Church at 5.15pm. Part of the Tenterden Christmas Market 22-24 November, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Tenterden Christmas Market: Friday 22 November-Sunday 24 November, Friday 3-9pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am4pm, Tenterden High Street and surrounding venues.

The Christmas Market will be home to local artisan food producers, street food, gifts for Christmas, festive crafts, Santa’s grotto, pop up art installations, street entertainment, live music, an exhibition, sparkling light parade, and more. Over 85 stalls in the High Street and there will be a giant snow machine sprinkling “snow” over shoppers. Santa will be making a return again this year to the delight of the little children.

Santa’s Grotto: Friday November 22-Sunday November 24, Friday 6-9pm; Saturday 10am-2pm & 3-8pm; Sunday 10am-4pm St Mildred’s Church will be open throughout the Tenterden Christmas Market weekend and this year is the location for Santa’s grotto. Also at the Church - imaginative UV artwork will be placed around the churchyard, Tenterden Camera Club will display of some of their work, and refreshments will be available

Mulled Wine Stall: Friday November 22-Sunday November 24, Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 12-5pm, Sunday 12-4pm Tenterden Rotary Club Sayers Lane Mulled Wine stall for the Tenterden Christmas Market. Raising money for Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance, Tenterden Social Hub, Shelter Box, Pilgrims Hospices and other Rotary charities

Christmas Tree Festival: Friday-Sunday, November 2224, opening times for public viewing and voting: Friday: 4-8pm, Saturday: 10am-4pm, Sunday: 12 noon - 1.30pm, Zion Baptist Church. Please come and admire the fantastic Christmas trees decorated by local groups depicting “Ballets and Pantomines” and vote for your favourite tree. There are 14 different community groups entering this year and they have put a lot of effort into making their trees look beautiful - we’ve seen some of the preparations. Refreshments and Christmas music. Part of the Tenterden Christmas Market.

Lions Christmas Float: Friday November 22, 4-8pm and Saturday 23 November, 10am-6pm Tenterden Lions Club Christmas Float outside Webbs Ironmongery at the Tenterden Christmas Market. Santa, Christmas songs and tunes, entertaining children and parents alike, with the true spirit of Christmas.

Christmas Craft Market: Saturday November 23, 10am4pm, Highbury Hall. An extra Craft Market for the Tenterden Christmas Market. Local stallholders, fantastic Christmas gift ideas, hand made, home made, individually crafted, personalised, made to order, a wide range of art, craft, jewellery, decorations, accessories, cards, wrap etc and cakes, bakes and sweet treats. Free entry and the café will be open all day serving drinks, snacks, cakes, light lunches. Fundraising for Tenterden Youth Club

History Society Meeting: Monday November 25,

7.15pm, Zion Baptist Church, High Street, Tenterden

Local History Society AGM followed by a talk by Eleanor Bliss ‘The Urgent Miss Babington’. Visitors welcome £3, to become a member on the door £6.

Affordable Housing: Tuesday November 26, 2.30-8.30pm, St Mildred’s Church Hall. Tenterden Community Land Trust providing genuinely affordable homes for the local community. A new way of doing things. Drop in any time, 2.30-8.30pm. Tenterden Community Land Trust are a voluntary community body (to be a charitable Community Benefit Society) seeking to provide affordable housing for local people and key workers in perpetuity

Westwell

Correspondent: Sue Wood, 14 Sandyhurst Lane, Westwell, Ashford Tel: 01233 623902 susanwood@uwclub.net Parish Council meeting:

The PC met on Monday November 4 in St Mary’s Church – meetings are moved from the parish hall in the winter months to allow the exercise class to meet in the hall. Larry Krause, borough councillor, was present and gave a report, including: introduction of a 50mph speed limit along the A20 from Tutt Hill to Watery Lane; Damian Green is the Conservative Party candidate in the December General Election, but will only canvass during daylight hours so as not to worry constituents who may be concerned by a caller after dark; the road outside Hothfield PO will be closed until December 20 but pedestrian access maintained to the PO, which remains open; the borough councillor noted that he was aware of the recent case of vandalism in Westwell cemetery. The meeting continued with discussion of the Staffing Committee recommendations re the Clerk’s pay and conditions; these are reviewed annually. The Minutes of the September and October meetings were approved. The lack of rural bus services will be raised at the next meeting of Action with Communities in Rural Kent. The PC website, which is hosted by KCC, does not comply with the new accessibility requirements; an alternative website template which meets the requirements is being sought and must be in place by the deadline of September 2020. Planning: There were no planning applications to discuss. Materials to be used for the new homes at Wheel Mews, eg bricks, roof tiles, softwood windows, were reviewed by councillors – these must be approved by the BC and the PC will send a supporting comment. Unauthorised activity on Highways England land in Watery Lane has been reported to the BC. The PC will attend and speak at the appeal hearing for the Lenacre Hall Farm application, the PC objected to the planning application. Finance: Quotes for grounds maintenance, repairs to the children’s play equipment, new noticeboards were discussed. Payments were authorised and updates given on works to which the PC is committed, including: repairs to the hall access track and installation of drainage; a new pedestrian access to the playing field from Westwell Lane; a PC noticeboard for Hoads Wood Gardens; a box hedge in the cemetery Garden of Remembrance. A financial report on the Westwell Eye was given. The draft budget for 2020-21 was discussed and will be finalised at the January meeting, this will enable the PC to set the Precept for the year. The meeting closed after reports from councillors, including lorry parking: the overnight parking ban is now permanent but will be suspended if Operation Brock is fully active and lorries held on the motorway. The next meeting of the PC is January 6 2020 at 7pm in St Mary’s Church. All meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. Westwell Players panto:

Last-minute tickets may be available for the Westwell

Players latest production: Rapunzel, a Tangled Pantomime Adventure. Performances will be on Thursday 21, Friday 22 and Saturday 23 November 2019 in the parish hall. The fun begins at 7.30pm except on Saturday when it will start at 6pm. Tickets are £8 each and available from the Players website: www.westwellplayers.co.uk or by calling Viki on 01233 714001.

Pub quiz: In the Wheel Inn on Friday November 21 at 7pm. Teams of 6, £2 per head and a cash prize.

WAGS: The Art Group meets in the parish hall on Monday November 25 at 1.30pm. All levels of ability and choice of media are welcome.

Willesborough / Newtown

Correspondent: John Donovan, 24 Church Road, Ashford Tel: 01233 502440 If you have an item, please contact the correspondent above.

Wittersham

Correspondent: Jennifer Maynard, 4a Swan Street, Wittersham, TN30 7PH Tel: 01797 270804 jennifermaynard55@gmail. com

Cancellation: Please note that the Friends Quiz Night has been postponed, and will not be going ahead on Saturday November 30.

School Open Morning: If your child is due to start school next September and you would like to have a guided tour of Wittersham Church of England Primary School, there will be an Open Day on Thursday November 21, 9.30, 11.10am. Alternatively you can make an appointment with the Headteacher, Claire Frost, on 01797 270329.

Oxney History Group: Tuesday November 26, 7.30pm in the Club Room, there will be an illustrated talk by Jack Gillett on ‘Things you may have missed in Tenterden.’

Fisherman’s Friend: The Film Club are showing this popular film on Thursday December 5, 8pm. Doors open 7.15pm with drinks available, come for a chat then watch the film. Members £4, non-members welcome, £7 entry.

Advent Sunday: Sunday December 1, 6pm there will be a said Evensong in Church, followed by a short musical interlude with soloist Tony Rawlins and visiting instrumentalists.

Christmas Tree Festival: Saturday and Sunday December 7 and 8 there will be a Christmas Tree Festival in Church. Refreshments will be served during the day. In the evening of Saturday December 7 the Tongswood Choir will give a concert of Christmas Music, and on the Sunday the Salvation Army Band are visiting to play carols at 5pm.a

Woodchurch

Correspondent: Peter and Sandra Marmara, 122 Front Road, Woodchurch Tel: 01233 860603 spmarmara@btinternet.com Darby and Joan: Meet at 2pm in the Memorial Hall, Friday November 22. £1 includes a game of Bingo, a quiz and light refreshments. Details from Joyce on 01233 860427.

Woodchurch in Bloom: Friday November 22, 7pm, Pop-In Centre in Lower

Road there will be a Village Gold Celebration event. The evening will include a short presentation as well as interactive stalls to celebrate all that Woodchurch in Bloom has achieved this year and to thank everyone who has made this possible as well as to discuss our future plans. Light refreshments will be provided and a pay bar will be available. Tickets for this event are £2 each and are available from The Hub or from Joyce at jnash@nashweb.net or 01233-860297.

Patients’ Participation Group: Monday November 25, 6pm, Bonny Cravat. The speaker will be Joyce Nash, a dementia friends’ champion for the Alzheimers Society. Joyce will provide information, including helping us learn about dementia. Patients of the Woodchurch Surgery are welcome to the meeting, you don’t have to be an existing member of the Group. If you would like to learn more about the Group and its purpose contact the Chair, Philippa Jones, on philippa.nick@btinternet. com or 07774608281.

Parish Council Meeting: Thursday November 28, 7pm, Memorial Hall annex.

Trip to Bluewater: Woodchurch WI will be running a Christmas shopping coach trip to Bluewater, Thursday 28 November. The cost per person is £12. The coach will be leaving the village at 9am from the doctors’ surgery and will also pick up from Kirkwood Avenue, opposite the green and from Shirkoak. Returning to the village at 5pm. For further details and to book your place please call Josie on 01233 860363.

Afternoon Christmas Market: Saturday December 7, Memorial Hall, 2-4pm. On sale will be home made cakes, preserves, hand-made cards, bric-a-brac and books and there will also be an excellent tombola and much more. Tea/coffee and homemade cake will be on offer at just £1.50.

Organ Concerts: Thursday December 12, Jean Mealham Pop-in Centre, Lower Road, Woodchurch TN26 3SQ there will be two organ concerts by Chris Powell. 2.30pm Chris will be playing Christmas themed carols, 7pm he will play all time popular favourite tunes. Entry by donation. Tickets from The WoodChurch Hub or phone Joy on 01233-861483 to book.

Christmas Fair: Friday December 13, 2.30-5.30pm, proceeds to Woodchurch School. Seasonal food and drink, Christmas music, kids games, craft and local food produce and a Santa’s Grotto. For more details or to book Santa’s Grotto, please contact fowsa@woodchurch. kent.sch.uk

Women’s Institute: The speaker for the November meeting of the WI was David Tadd, a former Head of Forensic Investigations and Operations for the Metropolitan Police at New Scotland Yard. His talk entitled ‘The

Forensic Investigation of Homicide’ held his audience entranced as he explained why the study of forensics is so important in the detection of crimes, particularly that of homicide. It is an extremely important part of any investigation and it is vital that the Forensic Scientist has an enquiring, open mind, does not make assumptions and develops a methodical, careful approach to the work in hand. A Senior Investigating Officer oversees the entire operation, whilst a Crime Scene Manager directs the team on site. Any investigation is all about gleaning as much information as possible and then unravelling it with colleagues in the Incident Room. In this way approximately 93% of murders are solved and it has certainly helped having a Police National Database available to all Police Forces for easy access to shared information all over the UK. Thank you, David, for your comprehensive and fascinating insight into the investigation of homicide

Wye

Correspondent: Jane Burnham, 13 The Close, Wye, TN25 5BD Tel: 01233 812042 ja.burnham@btinternet.com Public Meeting: Friday November 29, 12-2pm, Parish Church. Since November

2017 there have been several meetings held in the community to discuss how to reduce loneliness and social isolation. The focus moved on from only discussing social isolation and loneliness within our community to ‘connections in Wye’. A number of initiatives were proposed and developed since, for example Our Place Wye received funds to launch the Home from Hospital Scheme (now re launched as the Wye Community Companions) in partnership with Wye surgery. We are inviting you to join us to review progress and exchange ideas to improve ‘connecting in Wye’. In addition we are taking the opportunity to take part in the KCC consultation on Wellbeing Services in the Community. www.kent.gov. uk/wellbeingconsultation KCC wishes to hear views to help inform the design of Wellbeing services. These are services which provide support to people close to where they live that helps them to feel physically and mentally well and keeps people connected to the community in which they live. This includes reducing loneliness. Tea, coffee and a light sandwich lunch will be provided. We do hope you can join us; please could you let me know if you wish to attend (for catering purposes) email:- Davemartin@cpa. org.uk or call 0750 565 7420 Treasures of Tibet: Sunday November 24, 10am-6pm, Small Village Hall. A sale of rugs, jewellery, textiles, furniture, costume and artifacts. Rupert Smith is a renowned collector and dealer of Asian textiles. He specialises in rare antiques, contemporary carpets from Tibet, Asian silks, costume and decorative pieces. Following his first visit to Tibet in 1986, Rupert has studied the unique craft of weave and weft.