Birchington Parish Council Magazine

Birchington Parish Council COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Winter 2016

The Square and Station Road

From an old postcard, painted by C.E. Smart Used by kind permission of The Birchington Heritage Trust

News and events from your Parish Council

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Birchington Parish Council

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Twinned with La Chapelle d’Armentieres

Welcome to the twelfth edition of the Birchington Parish Council Magazine.

In this edition we have articles about Thanet Neighbourhood Watch, the Birchington Medical Centre, and the Birchington Residents’ Association, as well as many other local stories. We would like to thank everybody who has contributed to this magazine, and we welcome your input into future publications.

We are very keen to support local businesses, charities and organisations, and you will also find listings for groups, clubs and events throughout the publication.

Thank you once again, and we hope you find the magazine informative and useful.

PLEASE SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES

A big thank you goes out to all the local businesses that have advertised and supported the Birchington Parish Magazine. Please support local businesses and mention the magazine when responding to advertisers.

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DISCOUNT AERIALS Published by Community Ad Web Ltd 01843 834160 email info@communityad.co.uk web www.communityad.co.uk The views expressed in any published content are solely those of the contributors. The Publishers and Birchington Parish Council accept no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained in the publication. The contents of this magazine including images may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, downloaded or displayed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Birchington Parish Council and/or Community Ad Web Ltd. Unless otherwise specified, the authors of the literary and artistic works in the pages in this magazine have asserted their moral right pursuant to Section 77 of the Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 to be identified as the author of those works. The Publishers reserve the right not to publish a submission or part of a submission that they consider defamatory or otherwise inappropriate for publication.

Birchington Parish Council

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Birchington Parish Council Budget 2016/17 INCOME Precept 50658 Tax support

3567

Allotments 1000 Interest 10

55235

EXPENDITURE

Wages 15500 Office expenses

10500

Insurance 1350 Printer 2000 Website

2000

Subscriptions

1800

Allotments

1000

CCTV 2000 Grants 5000

T W SERVICES

NEED A SKIP?

Flowers 1200

Christmas 6000 Railway exhibition

300

Queen’s birthday

3000

Youth 2000 Advertising 1200 Flags

435

55235

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4

/twservices

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Amounts are to the nearest £. Band D council tax precept for Birchington will be £13.32. It is interesting to note that in 2015-2016, Birchington had the lowest precept in Thanet, with the next lowest being Cliffsend at £20.25. The highest was Minster at £46.62.

John Hill, Chairman of the Finance and Establishment Committee

Birchington Parish Council

Letter from the Chairman Birchington Parish Council has had a very full year of activities with the Battle of Britain Luncheon a brilliant success.

Nevertheless, the year ended in a flourish with the magnificent East Kent Model Railway Society exhibition attracting hundreds.

Also,The Birchington Parish Council Christmas event again attracted hundreds and at no cost to those attending. A real Christmas present to our community from your council recourses. There were choirs, actors, a super Santa as well as a conclusion with the square being packed to capacity, the crowds being entertained by our fine Church Bells and Christmas carols.

The Christmas tree and Nativity were so beautiful whilst the delightfully restored “Powell” stood out like a jewel.

The whole production was as last year organized by that dedicated professional group “Pipeline” of Global Generation,that over the years have looked after our youth ,in organized groups and also with individual targeted help to those experiencing difficult times. “Pipeline “ have provide their services at a very moderate cost. Birchington owes them our sincere gratification.

Much missed is our former Vice Chairman Cllr Bill Furness, a gentleman full of intense community dedication and our fiery good hearted Cllr Bernard La Roche. These

contrasting characters ,added great quality to our Parish Council. Bill developed our Community Magazine and our Epple Bay Beacon is an epitaph to Bernard who encourage his son Joseph to construct this magnificent structure.

The former BPC has considerably altered with the May 2015 elections, with two senior members passing away and the resignation of Cllr David Darling in preparation for his move from Birchington.

I agreed to serve as Chairman for one more Municipal year in May 2015 that will end in May 2016 and it will be for the new less experienced group to find their way forward.

Some Cllrs may have not quite grasped the degree of responsibility when spending BPC money, that is public money,your money.

The proposed possibility of spending up to £6000 on upgrading the BPC web site,is one example that may appear excessive.

Prudence may prevail.

Whatever, it has been a great honour serving the Birchington Community as well as being able to direct all my earnings as a District Councillor and internal examiner for the Royal College of Surgeons England to worthwhile charitable causes and can look back with gratitude knowing that my community and examiners money has not been wasted.

With best wishes, Cllr Dr Jack Cohen MGDS LDS RCS Eng.

刀攀最愀椀渀 琀栀攀 甀猀攀 漀昀 礀漀甀爀 挀漀渀猀攀爀瘀愀琀漀爀礀

⸀挀漀洀 䤀渀猀甀氀愀琀攀搀 䌀漀渀猀攀爀瘀愀琀漀爀礀 刀漀漀昀猀

Birchington Parish Council

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All Aspects Tiling Wall and Floor tiling Specialist Free quotations and advice professional friendly service.

Kent County Councillor’s Report I would like to start by wishing all Residents a very happy New Year and hope that we will see an improvement in these troubled times for the year ahead.

Contact 07786 503384

You will shortly be receiving Council Tax Bills which once again will reflect an increase, it is a fact of life that the financial pressures continue to flow down to Residents and this year will be no exception, currently KCC has a deficit of £68 million in its budget due to central Government cuts and this year’s Budget which we are still working on is very difficult.

As your Councillor for Birchington and the Villages I will continue through my Community Grant to try and fund items which otherwise would not be funded, although the Community Grant has also been reduced.

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6

I am pleased to be able to report that trees have now been planted in Queens Avenue, Support given to the Minnis Day Centre, a new flagpole in the Square, 438 Squadron Air Training Corps have had a grant for educational and training equipment in recognition of their support of our Village and the Twinning Association a minor grant for their work with our twin town in France.

If you have any issues you wish to discuss my contact details are in this magazine, also include is the KCC Highways Contact number , and I would ask you please to report any Potholes as soon as you see them as Pot hole repair is a priority Kindest regards Roger Latchford OBE Birchington Parish Council

Council Contacts BIRCHINGTON PARISH COUNCILLORS Chairman: Dr. Jack Cohen 2 Leslie Rd CT7 9HG q 01843 847421 E jackbernardcohen@gmail.com Vice Chairman: Neville Husdson 76 Quex View Road CT7 0DY q 01843 841900 n 07860 172546 E neville@grovefloral.co.uk Vanda Alexander 335 Canterbury Road CT7 9TY E vanda.alexander1@gmail.com Marian Evans 15 Berkeley Road CT7 9JR q 01843 841198 Philip Fellows 27 Grenham Road CT7 9JH q 01843 842519 n 07970 388870 E philipfellows@aol.com

John Hill 15 Hereward Avenue CT7 9LY q 01843 845729 Marcel Pooke 29 Spencer Road CT7 9EZ n 07973 551227 E marcel.pooke@gmail.com

Robert Wright 27 Queen Bertha’s Ave CT7 9BH n 07971 401620 E robo47@live.com Linda Wright 90 Canterbury Road CT7 9BB q 07825 338999 E lindaw1310@hotmail.com

Julie Francis 7 Kent Gardens CT7 9RS q 01843 841796)

Clerk to the Parish Council: Jamie Thomson Parish Office, 2 Albion Road, Birchington, CT7 9DN q 01843 841107 E birchingtonparishcouncil @yahoo.co.uk

THANET DISTRICT COUNCILLORS

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

Suzanne Brim 4 Alma Cottages, Off Station Road, Birchington, CT7 9DG E cllr-suzanne.brim@thanet.gov.uk Glenn Coleman-Cooke 23 Grenville Gardens Birchington, CT7 9LA E cllr-glenn.coleman-cooke @thanet.gov.uk Keith Coleman-Cooke 23 Grenville Gardens Birchington, CT7 9LA n 07980 599560 E cllr-keith.coleman-cooke @thanet.gov.uk Simon Day 121 Sea Road, Westgate –on- Sea, CT8 8QE q 01843 831155 E simonday@clara.co.uk Alan Howes 52 King Edward Rd, Birchington, CT7 0EG E cllr-alan.howes@thanet.gov.uk

Birchington Parish Council

Sir Roger Gale MP c/o The Old Forge, 215a Canterbury Road, Birchington, CT7 9AH q For surgery – 01843 848588 KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR

Roger Latchford OBE 10 Sea View Road, Birchington, CT7 9LB q 01843 846458 n 07796 176605 E roger.latchford@btinternet.com BIRCHINGTON PCSO Liddie Terry q 101 BIRCHINGTON KCC WARDEN Peter Willows n 07969 583919 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH CO-ORDINATOR Tanya Clark

MEMBER OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT Richard Ashworth MEP 5 Hazelgrove Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 3PH q 01444 474858 - UK office E richardjames.ashworth @europarl.europa.eu

Janice Atkinson MEP 3 Walton Terrace, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP21 7QY q 00 322 284 5537 E janice.atkinson @europarl.europa.eu Catherine Bearder MEP Disraeli House, 27 Park End Street, Oxford, OX1 1HU q 01865 249838 – UK office E catherine@bearder.eu Nirj Deva MEP 96 Vine Lane, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BE q 01895 479463 – UK office E office@nirjdeva.com

Annaliese Dodds MEP 18 Nowell Road, Rose Hill, Oxford, OX4 4TA q 00 322 284 5273 E anneliesejdodds@gmail.com

Nigel Farage MEP The Old Grain Store, Church Lane, Lyminster, West Sussex, BN17 7QJ q 01903 885573 – UK office E nigel.farage@europarl.europa.eu Ray Finch M.E.P q 00 322 284 5594 E ray.finch@europarl.europa.eu

Daniel Hannan MEP P.O. Box 99, Hassocks, BN6 0DY q 0032 2284 5137 – EU office E daniel.hannan@europarl.europa.eu Diane James MEP q 00 322 284 5541 E diane.james@europarl.europa.eu Keith Taylor MEP Office of the Green MEPs, CAN Mezzanine, 49-51 East Road, London N1 6AH q 020 7250 8415 E keithtaylor@greenmeps.org.uk

7

Thanet Neighbourhood Watch The new national Neighbourhood Watch committee are making big changes which we will be implementing over the coming months. Locally we have made changes beginning with the Extraordinary General Meeting in October where a new committee and officers were voted in.

The Committee for Zone 9, Birchington, has reformed with Roger Walford, Pat and Ken Bavin and Jack Cohen in the hot seats. They have a tough job ahead, so if you can offer them support they will be most grateful.

We are looking for residents to become NHW coordinators, who become the point of contact for their street / close / road, and receive regular email updates on crime, scams, cold callers and rouge traders operating in your area. If your road is not covered please consider taking on the role by emailing john. jstvs@talk21.com. If your road is registered many insurance companies will reduce your house insurance premium by 10%.

The Country Eye App (available at www. countryeye.co.uk) has been improved to cover more aspects including fly tipping, potholes and graffiti. Simply open the app, take a photograph of the problem, and the photo with GPS is automatically sent to be assessed and passed on to the appropriate agency. If you have anything general to report and need to contact a Council Department, Trading Standards, etc, your coordinator has a list of agency contact details.

If you know of a vulnerable person who may need help, the Fire and Rescue Services will provide an assessment of their property to make sure the person is safe and has appropriate devices such as smoke alarms.

They will also put them in touch with any other agency that might be able to help further.

Crime usually falls at this time of the year but because it gets dark early it is important to keep the back door locked. Email scams are on the increase, so only open emails from people you know or have contacted personally. They are the same as all types of scams; if something looks too good, beware‌ John Sims, Chairman Thanet Neighbourhood Watch nhw.thanet@kent.pnn.police.uk

Birchington Meeting Wednesday 30th March 7pm - Birchington Parish Council Offices, Albion Road, CT7 9DN PCSO Liddie Coleman and KCC Warden Peter Willows are attending to update us on current crime trends, and have some personal / home safety items to discuss. They stress they are there for people of Birchington and very much hope NHW members and the public will attend.

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Birchington Parish Council

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Birchington Medical Centre wants to hear from you Over the past couple of years, Birchington Medical Centre has been through some well-publicised turbulence, after numerous complaints and campaigns on social media portraying the practice in a bad light led to a major shake up and change in staff.

Looking to make drastic improvements in the way the practice was run, Hannah Price took over as Practice Manager at the beginning of January 2016, after having worked for Thanet Clinical Commissioning Group and within primary care in Thanet for around 18 years.

Hannah said, “In coming to Birchington this January, I was very aware of what needs addressing, and I’m told the same by most people in the community, including the staff and doctors here, the patients, some of the local councillors, and the patient group”.

As a very patient-focused practice, research was undertaken in order to really get to the bottom of what improvements patients wanted the practice to make, and this highlighted 2 main areas of focus: the booking system for appointments, and a lack of doctors and clinicians.

Patients within the research group noted that often they were unable to get through to book an appointment, or when they finally did manage to get through, there were no appointments left. In order to tackle the problem with the phone lines, Hannah is currently working on a proposal with the telephone service provider which would provide another 2 lines into the practice to make it easier for patients to get through.

Patients also stated that a call waiting system would be really handy so that they would know how far along in the queue they were, which the service provider has also said they should be able to provide.

Further to this, bookings can now also be made online via the Birchington Medical Centre website: www.birchingtonmc.nhs.uk, as well as through a mobile app which can be downloaded from the website, and can also be used for making repeat prescriptions.

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Birchington Parish Council

Hannah has also decided to take the step to change the way reception works by not having the staff multitasking. “At the minute we have people at the front taking calls as well as dealing with face-to-face callers but it would be more efficient if the calls were dealt with in the back and the people on the front desk were purely there to help face-to-face callers. That would also increase patient confidentiality”.

However, one problem that the practice cannot deal with internally and needs the help of the community to deal with, is the large scale of wasted appointments, where a booking has been made but the patient does not turn up and does not inform the practice that they wish to cancel. This is a large contributory factor as to why appointments are difficult to make at the moment, so please remember to cancel an appointment if it is no longer required.

The other main focus of the patient study

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was the lack of doctors and clinical staff at Birchington Medical Centre. Currently, the practice is actively looking for at least 1, preferably 2 doctors, or possibly 1 doctor and 1 advanced nurse practitioner.

Hannah told me, “We know that here in Birchington, we are short on clinicians, and that is a national problem; recruiting GPs at the moment is a really tough task, and it is something that I want to address ASAP. I want to make this practice attractive and stand out from other practices so that we can recruit good staff back in, however, the sad fact is that the more we get beaten in public, the less appealing it is for new staff to come and work here, so it’s a catch 22 situation. We understand that there are problems and we are trying to resolve them, but I need people to come to me if they have a complaint so that I can deal with it, rather than just going onto social media to vent”.

The Practice Manager, Hannah Price, has a very open door policy and welcomes all feedback so that she can improve the practice and the experience that patients are receiving. If a patient has a problem or a complaint, she urges an open conversation with her so that she is able to resolve the issue. She noted that it is not possible to have an open conversation with a patient over social media due to patient confidentiality, so direct feedback to the practice manager is really encouraged if you ever experience any problems.

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L Birchington Medical Centre Hannah would like to hear from you - what are your expectations from the practice and what can they do to improve your experience? Please get in touch with Hannah Price by emailing her with your views at birchingtonmcpm@nhs.net The Birchington Medical Centre Patient Participation Group (BMC PPG)

The BMC PPG is made up of volunteer patients registered at the practice, it is non-political and non-sectarian, and will at all times respect diversity. The main aim of the group is to facilitate good relations between the GP practice and patients.

The group meets at the BMC every other month - the next meeting is on 17 March 2016 @ 16:00 and is open to all registered patients. The group is keen to hear from patients or cares of patients registered at the centre who would like to get involved with the PPG’s work either in person or electronically.

Our email address is bmc.ppg@nhs.net and there is a PPG dedicated page on the BMC website www.birchingtonmc. nhs.uk where meeting minutes and other documents relating to the PPG are stored for public viewing.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Thanet Rural Speed Watch The Speed Watch Scheme has been operating in the Thanet Village for a number of years.

It is the aim of the Scheme to attempt to achieve a safe environment free from the danger of speeding vehicles.

There is a need to encourage other residents to volunteer to assist in the Scheme and I would be pleased to hear from anyone who would be interested in joining.

Iris Osborne | Coordinator Thanet Rural Speed Watch | 01843 840901 irisosborne789@btopenworld.com

Thanet West Neighbourhood Engagement Meetings Weds 1st June 2016 Weds 7th September 2016 Weds 2nd November 2016 Weds 1st Feb 2017 6.30pm at Garlinge Primary School, Westfield entrance NEM would like to thank Jessica Bailey TDC Community Safety Team Leader for the arrangements and the dedicated support NEM receives from TDC.

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Birchington Parish Council

Rogue Traders

· use a spy hole and keychain to see who is calling

A rogue trader is someone who comes to your house without invitation (cold calling), offers services or goods and overcharges you for them.

· stay with them while they’re at your door or inside your home

This includes overcharging for unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately to get money, leaving work unfinished and intimidating someone to get money.

SAY NO TO ROGUE TRADERS Protect yourself

· do not deal with doorstep callers offering work on your home or garden · check that the tradesperson is from the company they say they are from · ask for quotes in writing and ring more than three traders to get an average price for the job · remember traders must give you written notice of your right to seven days cancellation when agreeing to do work at your home, including work gained from a cold call Do you open the door to unexpected visitors? You don’t have to. Most people are genuine, but if you have any concerns you can also: · lock the rest of your house before opening the door

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Birchington Parish Council

· ask to see their ID and call the company to check they’re who they say they are by finding the number yourself.

· ask them to call back later if you’re worried and would like to arrange for someone to be with you More information · To report problems involving suspected rogue traders call Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 040506 As the Birchington KCC Warden I have been checking the area for litter and fly tipping and report these when needed. This has included the Albion Road Car Park to ensure the bins are kept as clear as possible and to check for any items being left such as chairs etc. I can check the CCTV when needed. I have some new Neighbourhood Watch ‘Our Watch’ booklets, full of home safety tips and ideas and some new ‘no cold caller stickers’ for your window or door.

Please let me know if you need anything including if you wish to set up a Neighbourhood Watch in your street!

Peter Willows, Birchington KCC Warden, can be contacted on 07969583919 and PCSO Liddie Coleman can be contacted via the Police 101 line. We are here to help.

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Birchington Anti-Litter Group (BAG) This group was formed as a way to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all those unsung and often unknown Birchington individual pickers who have volunteered to clear up after others.

Some join the group activities and indeed have taken on the additional job of organising events.

We welcome the involvement, support and commitment of TDC Cllr Suzanne Brimm and parish Cllr’s Vanda Alexander and Robert Wright, as well as the general support of TDC staff and Birchington Parish Council for their help in purchasing litter picking equipment. Thank you also to KD Insurance for help with our public liability Insurance.

We have already undertaken major litter picking events in Birchington. For example, one lone litter picker alerted us to the bad state of the Football ground between Park Lane and Park Road. A team of pickers filled almost 30 bags plus removed 1 armchair,

Birchington Branch R.N.L.I. After 34 years, it is with great sadness that the officers of Birchington Branch of the R.N.L.I have decided to close this branch.

This follows much discussion & with no alternative at this time.

We have had many years of friendship & great support from the residents of Birchington. However, the current officers 14

1 wardrobe and some garden chairs. A second group pick tackled the side of the A28 between the 2 schools producing 40 bags of litter. In October last year we had a MEGA pick on the beach between Minnis bay and Reculver.

Since the group came together in August 2015, 250 bags of rubbish have been picked up by Volunteers.

If your area would benefit from some additional attention then please give us details. Please be aware that there are many litter pickers who prefer to “go it alone”, and their efforts deserve appreciation. Let’s not forget Ray, our own local TDC operative!

We welcome comments and information on all litter subjects and have an email address for those who prefer to use that method of contact.

We welcome you to join BAG or just come along and join us on a pick. We can loan equipment including hi-Vis vest, we have a few smaller sizes for children to borrow.

It’s a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

If you are interested in volunteering to help keep Birchington litter free search for Birchington anti-litter group on Facebook.

Or email bagbirchington@gmail.com and speak to Mike Kite for details. have been in post for many years and we feel new ideas and new blood are needed for the continuation of this branch.

The R.N.L.I is a voluntary service & fund raising is of great necessity to continue to save lives at sea & for all the other aspects of the organisation.

If you feel you would like to form a new committee & keep this branch alive please come to our Coffee Morning/AGM on Feb 27th at The Centre, 10.30am. Contacts are, Maureen Hudson 01843 841900 or Wendy Teale 844586.

Birchington Parish Council

Have your say on the Queen’s Birthday Celebrations On the lighter side of village life we have, since the millennium, held various celebrations and events.

These include the installation of a coronation clock, building and lighting the cliff top beacons, a stone to commemorate the beginning of World War I, and a model Railway Exhibition to celebrate the first trains to Birchington.

We have welcomed the Olympic flame, had Christmas lights events, lunches and teas for other occasions, and the World War II spitfire lunch was a special success.

All this has been backed by the Birchington parish council with the local precept and a lot of hard work.

Now we are anticipating the celebration of H.M. the Queen’s 90th birthday. An official request is that beacons should be lit on her real birthday, 21st April.

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BPC wish to hear how our village residents would like the event commemorated. So far, plans are afoot for a children’s party on Dog Acre.

What else would you like to see happening in Birchington for the occasion? Please send your suggestions to Jamie Thomson, Clerk to the Parish Council, Parish Office, 2 Albion Road, Birchington CT7 9DN 01843 841107 birchingtonparishcouncil@yahoo.co.uk

Birchington Parish Council

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Birchington Parish Council

A winter bird walk at low tide from Beresford Gap to Grenham Bay You start at Beresford Gap and as you walk down the slope, look to your right at the old wall of the Beresford Hotel, you should see House Sparrows, Goldfinches and Starlings.

At the slipway, if you have a telescope, scan the sea – you should see Common Scoters, Great Crested Grebes and Red Throated Divers – and in November and December, there will be lots of Gannets flying by.

If you get here at high tide, you will see Redshanks, Turnstones and sometimes Purple Sandpipers waiting for the tide to turn.

As you walk along to Grenham Bay you can see lots of Herring Gulls, Black Headed Gulls and Great Backed Gulls.

Royal British Legion Both the President Brian White and I send our best wishes to all Residents and wish you all a very Happy New Year.

2015 was very good year in which the Branch were heavily involved in all the Commemoration events in the Village, Remembrance parades in Birchington and in France and another excellent year for the Poppy Appeal, so I would like to thank all of you who supported this very worthwhile event.

Birchington Parish Council

When you get to Grenham Bay, look on the Green and you should see Goldfinches, Meadow Pipits and, if you are lucky, Snowbuntings.

Along the cliff face, look for the Kestrel which will be hunting. The best time at Grenham Bay is an hour before high tide when the tide brings the birds in very close; you should see Dunlins, Sandlings, Curlews, Ring Plovers, Grey Plovers and Turnstones, Oystercatchers, Little Egrets and a few Bar Tailed Godwits.

I have seen Peregrine Falcons chasing the Waders and as the tide comes in the Brent Geese come in to feed on the eel grass – you never know what will turn up! For two weeks we had a Kingfisher and, on 21 November, a rare duck from North America called a Surf Scoter brought in over 25 bird watchers to see it.

You can check out what’s about in the area by reading the notice board on the wooden gate at Grenham Bay. Terry Wilson, Thanet Coastal Warden

Looking back on the past year, it was a very busy one and our President Brian White took part in the Festival of Remembrance in London, as well as being on Parade at the Cenotaph, John Lewis our Standard Bearer was busy throughout the year parading our Branch Standard, my thanks to John We started this year with our Annual lunch in the Smugglers a very happy event and now look forward to the year ahead. We urgently need more members so if you have recently left the Services please come along to our meeting the fourth Thursday of every month at 7.30pm in the Seaview. We look forward to seeing you.

Roger Latchford OBE (Lt Col Ret’d) Chairman

17

Ageless Thanet Ageless Thanet is one of 14 projects nationally, funded by the Big Lottery Fund’s ‘Fulfilling Lives: Ageing Better’ programme.

They have been given £3 million over 5 years to reduce social isolation and loneliness, and to improve mental and physical health in people over 50.

The Life Planners who are part of Thanet Citizens Advice operate in Birchington (as well as St Peter’s and Viking Wards) and offer one to one sessions to provide advice, guidance and support. They are there to help you to adapt the things in your life that are proving difficult so you can enjoy life to the full. There is a team of 3 Life Planners who are dedicated to the project for the next 5 years. The highly skilled Life Planners are there to offer a personal service, to understand your needs, wants and desires; and to design a bespoke plan, just for you. Some of the issues they can help with are: adjusting to retirement, carer’s support, coping with bereavement, debt, dealing with a change to their physical health, housing advice and confidence building.

Nicola Parmar, one of the Life Planners, answered a few questions about the service.

Is there a limit to the number of sessions a client can have?

No, there isn’t a limit to the number of sessions they can have, but we do find that the average number a person needs is 3 or 4.

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One of the things you say you can help with is confidence building, how do you go about that?

We are more than happy to go with a client to an appointment if they wish. We can also help to locate services or clubs to get people better connected within their communities.

What change do you notice in your clients?

At the beginning they feel like there is nothing that can be done to resolve their problems, that no one can help them. By the end you can see that they feel a weight has been lifted as they know that something is being done.

They are holding a drop-in session at Birchington Baptist Church every Thursday between 9:30am-12:30pm. If you are not able to get to the drop-in session a home visit can be organised. For more information or to make a referral call 01843 808685 or email agelessthanetadmin@ thanetcitizensadvice.co.uk.

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51 Alpha Road, Birchington, Kent CT7 9EG • 01843 842116 Seagulls are a familiar sight in Britain’s coastal towns But as splendid as they look, they can carry a host of nasty organisms, making them a potential threat to our health: bird flu, salmonella, botulism and even the deadly e-coli bacteria.

But they are not only a threat to health, they can become aggresive when nesting and have been known to bombard people in their gardens and even in the street.

John said “All wildlife is protected by law, but as herring gulls and lesser black back gulls pose such a health and safety risk, the nest and eggs can be removed from a property by an authorised person.

We don’t hurt, trap or kill them, we just make it impossible for them to nest. All the products we use are completely harmless to birds.”

John Couzens of Gullbusters knows a lot about seagulls. In the 25 years he has been removing nests and eggs from residential and industrial buildings he has seen the enormous amount of damage they cause. Worst of all, if the gas flue is obstructed, there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

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19

Birchington Residents’ Association Birchington Residents’ Association enjoyed a most successful year in 2015 and this year we are celebrating our sixtieth anniversary. Largely because of concerns regarding the Local Plan, our membership rose to around 500 and many new members have become involved with outings and Coffee Mornings which are held at 10.30 on the second Wednesday of the month at The Centre.

We held a public meeting about the local plan and this was so popular we had to repeat the meeting immediately afterwards.

We also presented our petition to TDC and our Chairman, Neville Hudson spoke at the Council meeting in support of it. We expect to hold further meetings this year when the revised plan is published.

In addition, we held several evening meetings, held a very successful V.E. Day celebration and enjoyed a summer afternoon tea. This year we are currently planning celebrations for the Queen’s ninetieth birthday in April and our sixtieth birthday party. Our Christmas Lunch was held once again at Saint Augustine’s and most members were delighted with the

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food and the ambience of the event. We had a small problem involving ten people being served plaice instead of cod, but, of these, most had enjoyed it anyway.

However, when the venue was contacted, they were happy to make a small refund to those involved.

We organised four summer trips which were well-supported and we have just finalised our trips for this season. Once again we shall offer four trips, starting with our Mystery Trip on the afternoon of April 20th culminating in afternoon tea.

On May 18th we have booked a full day trip to Greenwich, where there are many possibilities including a river trip, a visit to the newly-restored Queen’s House, the Maritime Museum and the old Naval Hospital, the Cutty Sark and, for the more active a walk to the top of the hill to the Old Observatory. Our excursion on the afternoon of June 15th involves a drive through the Kent countryside to Capel–LeFerne and an included visit to the National Battle of Britain Museum, followed by tea.

Finally, by special request, we hope on the afternoon of July 20th to pay another call on the Salutation Gardens in Sandwich, where the Head Gardener, former King Ethelbert student, Stephen Edney, has offered to show us round, if he is available. The garden should be at its full glory then and is well worth a repeat visit.

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Birchington Parish Council

Birchington Bowls Club 2015 was probably our most successful season to date, both at team and individual level with major achievements in local and county competitions. Also three of our club members won the County Triples Final and represented Kent in the National Finals at Leamington Spa. We consider our Bowls club to be progressive and forward looking and are always seeking to make improvements both on and off the bowls green.

Since our foundation in 1961 the Bowls Club has seen a number of changes.

The most recent improvements include the installation of Double Glazing and a new ramp to make the clubhouse more comfortable and accessible to all abilities.

Future improvements are being considered, such as the remodelling of the clubhouse interior to make more room available. This should allow more members to attend functions that are held throughout the winter months and provide additional floor space for the introduction of indoor bowls,

thereby encouraging greater use of the facilities.

Members of all ages and abilities are welcome, whether they wish to play or just socialise. For those who wish to play we offer FULL and JUNIOR membership, whilst for those who would rather take a less active role and just watch a game or play casually for a small fee and have a drink we also offer SOCIAL membership status.

During the closed season/winter period (October – April), our social calendar provides opportunities for non-members to participate in weekly bingo sessions on Friday afternoons and purchase tickets for our annual cabaret evening (which this year is being held at the Village Community Centre on Friday 4th March. Tickets, which are limited to 110, can be purchased from Framing Plus, Station Road, Birchington which is close to the railway station). For club members we hold regular Quiz and Race Nights.

Of course throughout the winter the whole site including gardens are maintained by a dedicated few who turn up every Monday morning whatever the weather to make sure everything is looking neat and tidy and working properly. Extra volunteers are always welcome.

Clean for the Queen Keep Britain Tidy Would like your help to “clean for the Queen” - if not for the Queen then for BIRCHINGTON.

On Saturday 5th March at 11am, we are asking the residents of Birchington to come out of their homes and help clear the road where they live.

Individually or as a group, help to make Birchington litter-free and let’s be proud of our little patch of Thanet.

If you would like more Information. a supply of bags, or would like to volunteer to help clear other areas, then please contact the Birchington Anti Litter Group on 07926 05370 or email bagblrchlnqtoo@gmail.com or find us on facebook.

Birchington Parish Council

23 23

Citizen’s Rights for Older People Malcolm Ford had been retired for a year when he came across an advert for volunteer advocates for Citizen’s Rights for Older People (CROP) on the web.

The 69-year-old Margate resident uses the skills, experience and knowledge built up over 50 years of employment to advocate on behalf of the over 50s.

He said: “I am able to support clients who have been referred to CROP and really believe I am making a difference. People find themselves in very difficult situations and don’t know where to turn or where to start sorting out what’s going on and I can support them to take those first steps.”

The grandfather of seven added clients’ needs were varied: “It may be completing forms which have a disproportionate number of pages or questions, supporting complaints, or housing problems.”

And meeting people face to face often leads to discovering they have other needs such as transport to collect their state pension to contacting Social Services about the care being provided. Mr Ford commits to 3-4 hours a week.

“I find it is good to try to be prepared in advance before making a visit from the information in the referral passed from CROP office in Lenham. I personally cover the Thanet area along with other volunteers, but CROP still need more volunteer advocates.”

He previously volunteered when he was made redundant in the 1990s and a shortage of jobs in international freight and customs made a career change necessary.

He taught basic numeracy and volunteered with Kent Probation Service and the 24

Samaritans, which eventually led to paid work with the homeless and then with rehabilitating offenders.

He said: “Due to volunteering I found my own way back into full time employment.”

Citizens Rights for Older People (CROP) offers a volunteer-led home visiting, information, advice and advocacy service to older people. The aim is to support people to make decisions to enable them to stay in their own homes.

CROP is appealing for volunteer advocates in Birchington where demand for its service is high.

Adrian Adams from CROP in Thanet said: “Its mission is for older people to enjoy the same rights as other consumers, to prevent abuse and resist ageism.”

He added CROP’s volunteer advocates have a wide range of life skills and qualifications but patience and communication skills to listen, gather and share information both in person and on the phone, to be computer Birchington Parish Council

literate and have transport to visit clients at home are the main requirements.

Typical tasks are helping people deal with bureaucracy and form filling for attendance allowance and personal independence payments, for example, to acting as an advocate on personal finances, benefits, housing, home adaptations and accessing health and social care.

VOLUNTEER Drivers are needed in Birchington to donate time, patience, a listening ear and friendly conversation.

Thanet Volunteer Bureau drivers’ scheme is for people who find it difficult to use public transport and need to get to essential appointments, including dentist, chiropodist and opticians.

Volunteer driver, John, said: “It’s heartbreaking to have to turn people away because we haven’t got enough drivers.

Drivers need to want to help people, be able to chat and offer a helping hand.”

ILLNESS was the route to volunteering for former publican John.

A crippling attack of rheumatoid arthritis when he was 50, left him in a hospital for six months and forced him to retire.

For a man who had run pubs and worked as a lorry driver it was tough, but a nurse suggested he turn his hand to volunteering and he has never looked back.

Two decades on John is still a driver for

Thanet Volunteer Bureau.

“I was very depressed after my illness and almost had a breakdown. The illness came on very quickly and I was in bed for months.

“A nurse said ‘had I thought about volunteering?” After I got back on my feet I volunteered for the hospital transport and started running it and then one day Thanet Volunteer Bureau phoned me up and said they were desperate for drivers.”

He joined Thanet Volunteer Drivers’ Scheme and still drives voluntarily as often as his health allows.

The 72-year-old, who often makes sure clients are OK for bread and milk if their local shop is too far to get to, said: “I love helping people. People say ‘I don’t know what we’d do without you,’ but I tell them ‘I don’t know what I’d do without you.’ It helps me just as much as it helps them. I wish people who don’t volunteer would realise that.

“I love people’s company and I enjoy a good gossip.”

Last year alone the bureau made around 23,000 journeys.

Anyone wishing to find out about these or any other volunteering opportunities should contact outreach worker Emma Cooney at emma.cooney@ thanetvolunteerbureau.co.uk or call 01843 590935 @TVolunteering Facebook/Thanet Volunteer Centre

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27

SAVE THE DATE

Model railway exhibition is back!

Exhibitors and traders have been quick to sign up for the fourth Birchington Model Railway exhibition which will be held in the village on Saturday 8 October.

Organised by the East Kent Model Railway Society on behalf of Birchington Parish Council and to be held at The Centre in Alpha Road, the event promises an extravaganza of railways in miniature, ranging from tiny N gauge to the much larger O gauge. Outside, there will be rides on a garden railway operated by Frank

28

Norton and a team of fellow enthusiasts.

If you’ve been searching for that vital addition to your model railway collection, need a spare part or get some ideas on how to start the hobby, then a selection of traders will be offering a wide variety of new and pre-loved items.

Birchington Heritage Trust will once again take the Centre’s stage for an indepth display of the village’s historical connections with the full size railway since its opening in 1863.

The first model railway exhibition was held in Birchington in 2013 to mark the 150th anniversary of the line’s arrival in the village

Birchington Parish Council

– which proved to be a milestone in its development, bringing people wanting to move out of London to live in newly built bungalows or simply to escape the city’s grime for lungfuls of healthy sea air.

EKMRS Chairman Nick Evans said: “This year’s exhibition promises plenty to entertain model railway fans of all ages and abilities. We’re hoping to have more than a dozen different layouts and a clutch of reputable traders taking part. The last three years have seen hundreds of people flock to the occasion and we’re hoping even more will take the chance to come along again this time.

“Exhibitors include local clubs and individuals as well as groups representing preserved lines and a railway museum.

“We’re delighted the parish council has Birchington Parish Council

been able to support the event once more.

Its input ensures that admission prices are kept at an affordable level for everyone.”

Parish Council Chairman Cllr Jack Cohen said: “The exhibition has proved to be a great success for the village and has become a social event to be enjoyed by many – I hope that will continue again this year and urge residents to support it.”

For your diary – the Birchington Model Railway exhibition will be held at The Centre, Alpha Road, on Saturday 8 October between 10am and 4pm. Adult admission will be £2, children £1 and family tickets (2 adults + 3 children U-16) will be £5.

Further information from EKMRS Chairman Nick Evans on 07743 704547 or email nickevanscomms@sky.com 29

SPITFIRE DAY

80TH ANNIVERSARY

OF THE FIRST FLIGHT OF THE SPITFIRE Saturday 5th March 2016 We are proud to present a day of celebration to commemorate this momentous day in modern aviation history when a prototype Supermarine Spitfire first took to the skies on the 5th March 1936.

The highlight of the day will be a 10 minute choreographed display in the skies above Ramsgate by the “Spirit of Kent” Spitfire based in Biggin Hill.

For further details about the event or Prize Draw, please visit our website. www.defenceofthenationeducationcentre.org or contact our Museum Director, Robin Martin, on 07591 049788

WIN A FLIGHT IN A SPITFIRE First Prize 30 minutes in a Spitfire Mk IX.* Plus access to the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar for you and up to 3 guests.

To win a flight in this legendary aircraft, enter our prize draw competition.

Tickets are just £5 each or 5 for £20.

*Winning ticket holder only. Does not include 3 guests.

Supported by Westerham Brewery and Airfix

Kense Taiko A little piece of the East in Kent You may not be aware of the fact that Birchington is the most important place in the South-East of the United Kingdom for a growing branch of Japanese culture.

All Saint’s Church on the Square is the home of Kensei Taiko, the only Japanese drumming school in Kent. Our dojo, the Church, is a superb venue with amazing acoustics, and the spiritual use of the building seamlessly merges with the spiritual and meditative aspects of the drums…The teaching and organisation at Kensei Taiko is run by Kyoshi Bill Parr who also teaches Iaijutsu, another aspect of Japanese culture. Last year to our delight our band were asked to play at the prestigious showcase that was the 11th UK Taiko Festival in Exeter, alongside top Japanese and European bands!

A Brief History Taiko (meaning drum or fat drum) were (and still are) used in Buddhist and Shinto ritual and meditation, and were used to signal in village life and in battle. In later years they were used in Gagaku,( court music) and Noh drama.

In the 1950s, kumi daiko developed; a group of drums of different tones played to produce finite pieces for entertainment.

Birchington Parish Council

The difference in tone is produced by the drum shape and size from the high pitched tsukeshime daiko, (a small drum with skin heads, tuned by tight ropes, specially laced) through okedo (larger roped drums) , nagado or miya daiko (barrel sized, drums) to the famed Odaiko which is a large, deep sounding drum.

Kensei Taiko uses the full spectrum of these drums to produce unique pieces, and beginners can progress to performer level to play them all.

Taiko are played by drummers standing in very martial art-like stances. These stances enable strong and versatile upper and lower body movements from stable grounding.

Power and speed can be generated from the earth, through the lower limbs and body to produce strong, fast upper body movements. The drumsticks, ‘Bachi’ are thick wooden drum sticks that may be parallel or tapered, and from ordinary finger thickness to ‘rolling pin’ thickness in different types of wood according to personal and acoustic tastes. Our players use a variety of these.

Taiko can be placed vertically or horizontally; on stands to be played over, or L 31

L at head height, waist height or much lower at knee height. Yatai bayashi style playing dictates that the drum is played seated on the floor with the drum at an angle between the legs, the drummer leaning back holding a half sit up position…tsuke shime playing can be performed from standing or kneeling positions. Less mobile players play to their own limits…it’s all about enjoyment, not pain!

It is said that in the rumbling rhythms of taiko speak Kami. (spirits or Gods)… In my

experience playing taiko has produced in audiences elation, extreme emotion (onlookers describe ‘welling up’ with tears), excitement and the urge to beat a drum themselves!

If your curiosity is aroused, Kensei Taiko run beginners’ classes every Tuesday evening 6.30pm-8pm (do come try, all ages welcome) at All Saints Church, and play regularly at famous venues. See our Facebook page for a full and up-to-date list of our upcoming performances!

Our 2016 programme so far includes1st-3rd April Japanese Culture Festival, Gulbenkian theatre Canterbury 17th April Hanami Festival, Brogdale Collections Faversham

5th June, Sunken gardens Westbrook Caring 4 Connor walk 25th June Armed Forces Day, Broadstairs bandstand 7th July, Eastry Church music extravagana

9th-10th July Sandwich Folk and Ale Festival, Sandwich, Kent 31st July Japanese Garden Society, Herons Bonsai Lingfield

27th, 28th, 29th August, Military Odyssey, the County Showground Detling 10-11th October Wood Fest, Belmont House, Faversham

Come, listen and feel wadaiko; experience the effects…anyone can drop in and play regardless of ability! Age range presently runs from 9 – 70+ so do come along, wear comfy clothes and bring some water to drink! For more information, email Sensei Bill Parr at kenseitaiko@gmail.com or call 07985775554. Find us on Facebook by searching kenseitaiko

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Birchington Parish Council

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Robinson Allfree Est.1897

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Robinson Allfree Solicitors offer legal services to individuals and businesses - family and children law, divorce, conveyancing, wills & probate and business matters.

Our services are:

• Wills • Trusts and Probate • Family and Relationships • Property • Business

www.robinson-allfree.co.uk Ramsgate Office 17 - 25 Cavendish Street, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 9AL Tel: (01843) 592361 | Email: ramsgate@robinson-allfree.co.uk Broadstairs Office 142 High Street Broadstairs, Kent CT10 1JD Tel: (01843) 865261 | Email: broadstairs@robinson-allfree.co.uk Birchington Parish Council

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Clubs & Groups Regular meetings at The Centre Check dates and times for changes.

The main hall, the bar lounge and smaller upstairs rooms may be hired for private functions. Contact Leon Cox on 01843 841787, 9am to 2pm weekdays only.

Birchington Active Retirement Association (BIARA) BIARA is a club for people who are 50 years old and active in mind and body. The club holds Sport Mornings on Wednesday & Friday from 9.30-12pm, price £2, at the Centre in Birchington for Table Tennis, Short Mat Bowls, Snooker & Pool Tables, Board Games and Darts only on Friday morning.

There are Keep Fit classes held on Monday & Tuesday afternoons at the Scouts Hall for 1 hour each starts at 2.15 pm price £2.50 and there is a Craft class at the Centre on Monday afternoon at 2pm price £2.50 at which you do your own thing. On every second Tuesday afternoon in the month the Club holds a Table Tennis afternoon at 2pm price £2.50. During the year we have lunches, holidays and anything else we can think of. Membership £7 per year.

Birchington Residents’ Association Coffee morning on the second Wednesday each month – 10.30am

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Birchington Heritage Trust Museum Opening times: Mondays, Thursday and Saturdays – 9.30 to 12.30pm. Closed bank holidays, entrance free but donations gratefully accepted. Run entirely by volunteers, new members always welcome Birchington Horticultural Society Second Wednesday afternoon in January and Feburary – 2.30pm Second Wednesday evening in March, June, July, Oct, Nov, Dec – 7.30pm Birchington Silver Band We are a well established and Friendly brass band with a membership of more than 20 plus. The band gives regular concerts at the Birchington Village Centre on the last Sunday of the month, except June, July and August. All concerts start at 2.30pm with free admission. In the summer months we also play at various Bandstands such as Broadstairs, Folkestone, Hythe as well as requests for quite a few local venues.

We also have quite a few social activities during the year which are open for any of the community to join in. If you play or have played a brass instrument, or want to learn, you will be most welcome to join us on Wednesdays at 7.30pm at King Ethelbert School Birchington. Please contact Mrs Pat Miles, Band Secretary on 01843 848660 Birchington Twinning Association Third Tues evening each month at 7pm

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Freephone Mobile 07922 537341 0800 234 34 21

We buy and sell gold, silver, platinum, clocks, watches, coins, medals, antiques and collectibles.

Hatton garden prices paid on scrap jewellery.

134 High Street, Herne Bay. Opening times: Mon-Fri 9.00-4:30, Sat 9.00-4.00 Mike Anderson T: 01227 374331 M: 07702667634 Email: mickandy62@yahoo.com

Birchington Parish Council

Birchington Village Centre Association Club for the over 60s. Tea and bingo on Friday afternoons – 1.45pm Birchington and Thanet Guild of Winemakers Third Thursday afternoon, Feb, April, June, August, Oct, Dec – 2.30pm Kent family history society Third Wednesday evening each month except august – 7.30pm Spiral Turn Dance Club Latin, ballroom tuition for children and adults – for times call 07733 015616 or 01227 363084

Probus Club The Men’s Probus Club of Birchington & District is an opportunity for retired men to meet up monthly for lunch and fellowship.

Membership is open to anyone who is retired and it costs a miserly £10 to join (plus lunches of course!). We meet at the Smugglers restaurant in Birchington on the last Thursday for a two course meal with coffee. We also hold coffee mornings and other functions, including a coach trip to a local attraction (last month we spent a very pleasant day at Chatham Historic Dockyard), to which partners and guests are invited. If you are interested in the possibility of joining our Club contact Secretary Dave Alker on 01843 845783 or dave.alker@btinternet.com

Activities in Acol Zumba Fitness Class Every Mon and Fri evening, 7-8.30pm Ballroom Dance Fitness Every Tuesday from 6–7pm (except 1st in the month)

Bowls Birchington Bowls Club, Beach Avenue.

For further information contact the general secretary, Carol Fisher, on 01843 842507

Birchington Parish Council

East Northdown Farm & Gardens

George Hill Road, Broadstairs CT10 3BJ Thanet’s friendly family garden and business centre open daily all year We grow a comprehensive range of different trees, shrubs, and perennials, at our two nurseries, here and in Staffordshire Taddy’s Barn is open daily for light lunches, teas and cakes Ring Carol on 07789 593215 taddysbarn@btconnect.com

Groups and carers welcome. Disabled toilets

Tours of our gardens and evening lectures for groups by appointment

www.botanyplants.co.uk

East Northdown Business Centre provides premises and facilities in pleasant and convenient surroundings for many small businesses, charities and groups. Can we help you?

Office: William & Louise Friend East Northdown Farm, Margate, Kent CT9 3TS Tel 01843 862060 or 07714241668/7 info@botanyplants.co.uk

St. George’s Garage Ltd. Experience our difference

SERVICING ALL MAKES & MODELS LOCALLY • Local & personal care for your vehicle • FREE Tyre Safety check • FREE Battery check • Free local collection & delivery • Air conditioning • Servicing • Batteries • Brakes • MOTs • Tyres • Four Wheel alignment

St. George’s Garage Ltd.

8-12 Harold Road, Cliftonville, Margate, CT9 2HT

Tel 01843 230300 | Fax 01843 231302 Web www.stgeorgesgarage.co.uk Email info@stgeorgesgarage.co.uk 35

Churches

Baptist Church

(Two church buildings) Sundays 10.30am at Station Road 6.30 pm at Crescent Road

All Saints, Birchington

Sundays Parish Holy Communion 8am Sung Eucharist 10am Family Service first Sunday of the month 10am Junior Church in Church House 10am Evensong first Sunday of the month 6pm Weekdays Holy Communion Wednesday 10am

Methodist Church

Canterbury Road, opposite The Smugglers Restaurant Sundays 11am Songs of Praise 6.30pm on 19th April; 17th May and 21st June Sue Dalgliesh 01843 847312 Cannon David Caine has advised the Birchington Parish Council that Our Lady and St Benedict has been merged with St Peters Westgate.

St Mildred, Acol

Sunday Sung Eucharist first Sunday of the month Morning Worship third Sunday

Bob Goode 01843 845400

9.30am 9.30am

St Thomas, Minnis Bay

Sundays Sung Eucharist 11am Morning Prayer second Sunday 11am Weekdays Holy Communion Thursday 10am

The Parish of the Holy Family - Thanet Birchington and Westgate Services Saturday 6pm Vigil Mass (for Sunday) at Birchington Sunday 9.15am Mass and Children’s Liturgy at Birchington Weekday mass daily (Except Thursday) 10am Sunday only Canon David Caine 01843 841549 The Bay URC

Vicar: Rev. Don Witts 01843 841117 | 07749 201947 The Vicarage, 15 Minnis Road, Birchington CT7 9SE The Parish Office 01843 84077 Church House, Kent Gardens, Birchington CT7 9RS Open Monday-Friday 9.30 to 12.30 Parish Administrator: Sue Murphy

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Sundays 10.30am 1st Sunday in the month Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Family Service Revd George Kalu 01843 613819 To arrange a home visit from one of the clergy or pastoral team, call Margaret 840878 or Sue 840777

Birchington Parish Council

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To arrange for your free estimate call

0800 0287878 07771 934413 www.chipsaway.co.uk or direct on

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Since 1975, our team of skilled craftsmen has been restoring and conserving fine 17th, 18th and 19th century clocks and barometers for discerning collectors and members of the trade in several countries.

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Birchington Parish Council

0845 2601631

Restoration Services High Quality Watch Restoration Wheel and Pinion Cutting Dial Restoration Clock Hand Making Gilding · Engraving Case Restoration Valuations

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www.anthonygrayclocks.com 37

G GoreBrothers Ltd

Caring, helpful funeral directors since 1831

Home visits, 24 hour personal attention and pre-paid funeral plans 18 Station Road, Birchington

01843 841835 Head Office

01843 223534

www.gorebrothers.co.uk

Strawberry Fields Coffee House opens its doors as a meeting place for local groups, organisations or friends that just love a good chat.

Come in and enjoy a warm, friendly atmosphere and relax with our range of food and drinks.

Cooked breakfasts, mid-morning snacks, hot and cold lunches , cream teas, take away food and drinks, or just enjoy a coffee with a slice of cake and cream.

We also take bookings for small functions.

Booking, reservations and take-away orders

01843 846600

Open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm

8 The Square 路 Birchington 路 Kent 路 CT7 9AB

The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie

Alfresco dining , stunning views of Minnis Bay, freshly brewed coffee & teas, locally sourced freshly prepared food, great selection of local ales, international lagers, wines and of course Ice cream!

The Parade, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9QP T: 01843 841844 - E: minnisbay@shepherd-neame.co.uk - W: www.theminnis.co.uk 38

Birchington Parish Council

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THINKING OF SELLING YOUR PROPERTY?

Birchington 01843 844 899 Cliftonville 01843 231 222

Ramsgate 01843 570 500 Broadstairs 01843 888 444

milesandbarr.co.uk