Lenham Focus | November '13

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NOVEMBER 2013 VOLUME 15 ISSUE 11 Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Design Team: What we’re doing.

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It’s not everyday that I write an article to be published in a magazine. But I felt that I should introduce us a bit more and what we’re doing with the Lenham Focus.

people to keep sending in ideas and feedback as we’d love to hear them!

My name is Will, and I’m Creative Director at Flowbox, we’re a small design agency based in Maidstone.

We took over the design and layout for the Lenham Focus as a personal project to give something back to the village of Lenham.

Picture focussed articles Large image holders allowing articles to have a bigger impact

In August we launched the new design for the Lenham Focus, along with new designs for the social media pages. The design was generally well received and a lot of people felt that it brought a breath of fresh air to the magazine. We’re still taking feedback on the new design and perfecting little bits in each edition that comes out.

I just wanted to thank the readers for their feedback and encourage

Bolder headings We’ve made articles headings clearer and more consistent

Design Team: What we’re doing

In this issue we’ve changed the design a bit from the original. We’ve added:

Larger font size You asked and we’ve listened, the font size has been increased!

Any other feedback, please send to hello@thinkflowbox.co.uk.

I would however ask advertisers to please send in PDF, JPG, or TIFF artwork as otherwise it cannot be included in the magazine. Word documents are not suitable.

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Welcome...

Plenty on this month, plus a few things to celebrate.

We are looking for help with the distribution particularly around the Ham Lane area. If you are able to help out by delivering in your local area, regardless of how small, please get in contact.

In this month’s issue we have the second list of names of people from Lenham who dies in the First World War. If you can help with the research please do contact Amy Myres or Nick Osborne.

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Some good news coming out of the Cricket Club, they have won the Invicta League for 2013. We would like to congratulate them and wish them all the success for next season.

Lenham Players are looking for new members so please do get involved.

They also have a show on the 30th of the month in honour of their previous Chair Linda Gemmell who sadly lost her battle with a brain tumour in June.

Have a good month.

Welcome

James Collett Focus Editor 01622 850608

lenham-focus@tiscali. co.uk

Lenham Focus Volume 15 Issue 11 | November 2013 Circulation 2000

NOV 13 Editor: James Collett 01622 850608 | lenham-focus@tiscali.co.uk Advertising: Annie Drylie (On maternity leave) Please contact James | advertslf@gmail.com Treasurer: Sue Marchant 01622 858511 | 07788163828 | lenhamfocusinvoices@gmail.com Distribution: Gez Clark 07784 447200 Proof Reader: Jane Hewish Social: Jemma Cockell Printed by: MD Printers

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Copy Deadline: 7th of the preceding month. Please leave copy at 24 Maidstone road or contact us.

Advertising rates (Sep 2012) Eighth page Quarter Page Half Page Inside Cover Full Page Inside Cover Half Page Full Page Outside Back Cover

£13 £21 £38 £79 £58 £69 £88

Front cover available once a year per advertiser

£120

Print + Deliver one A5 insert

£250

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Your Focus Team We are the team behind the Lenham Focus, we build the magazine from start to finish every month. For you.

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Contributors

Our people From left to right: Annie Drylie and James Collett (More to come in next issue!)

ELLIOTT ROUND

Photography: Elliott Round Elliott is a student who has just graduated from Maidstone Grammar School. He has been providing his photography to Flowbox for around a year now. His style is normally contemporary studio weddings.

For this magazine, Elliott was commissioned to produce a high-quality, focused and creative set of photographs that embraces the new Lenham Focus brand, and the village ethos. elliottroundphotography.co.uk

Flowbox.

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Writing: James Collett

Design: Will Beeching and Ed Craddock

Although James is not, and never has been, involved in publishing he works on the Focus to ensure the village is always up to date with events and to provide local businesses with a low cost publication to advertise in. As with all the team he gives up his time in between work and family and is always grateful to the contributors who make the job so much easier.

Flowbox are an innovative young creative agency based in Maidstone. Established in 2012 they have been providing the Focus with their time and design services for free. Flowbox works with all sorts of clients from one-man bands to huge corporations. If there’s something you’re after, get in touch! thinkflowbox.co.uk Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Borough Council Corner I attended October’s Lenham Parish Council meeting, where Chris Garland Leader of the Council

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(Maidstone Borough Council) spoke to councillors and residents concerning the local plan. He stated that this would be delivered in late summer, early Autumn 2014.

The Parish Council also discussed the Raymac proposal for a co-op shop and apartments at 8 Faversham Road, formerly offices and home to Lenham Ironmongers. On the previous Saturday I attended the public viewing of the plans. It was a very interesting and helpful exercise.

Residents were able, over refreshments, to look and discuss the planning issues. Parking, highways concerns, size and design of the apartments, impact on the dance studio, potential for noise, operational hours, design next to a conservation area, impact on nearby residents, amongst other matters and write their views in a brief consultation paper which could be given to the Parish.

Can I thank the Council for holding such an event. I have “called in” the proposal to be discussed by

Borough Council Corner

Cllr Tom Sams Harrietsham & Lenham Ward t: 01622 859412 m: 07718173329 tomsamscllr@gmail.com

the Borough’s planning committee so residents will have an opportunity to put forward their views.

Finally can I congratulate those who have made their contributions to the Swadelands vegetable garden project. I believe that the money has been collected and the project has already started.

Thanks to Brian & Jo Llong from LEA (Lenham Enhancement Association) for pulling this together.

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Lenham Cricket Club LENHAM CRICKET CLUB - INVICTA LEAGUE WINNERS 2013!!

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The last cricket update of 2013 kicks off with the Saturday side playing host to Staplehurst. The league title was already in the bag but Lenham were keen to end the season in winning style. Lenham won the toss and decided to field first. Staplehurst were dismissed for 126. Dave Gardner and Alan Barr each picked up 2 wickets.

Lenham reached their target inside 27 overs for the loss of just one wicket. Pete Humphries ended 53 not out and Tom Curtis 63 not out.

The Sunday side, short on numbers, travelled to Hartley the following day. The weather was miserable as was the result for Lenham. Owing to the wet conditions the game was reduced to 30 overs a side. A strong Hartley side scored 183 for the loss of 3 wickets. Jack Gracie took 2 wickets. Lenham looked well on course to chase down the stiff target but were dismissed for 146. Adrian Longley top scored with 57 and was well supported by Tom Curtis 39. Special thanks to Hartley who

Lenham Cricket Club

loaned Lenham 3 players on the day to make up the numbers.

With the league season over there was no game for the Saturday side the following weekend. The Sunday side took on Harrietsham in a local derby. Harrietsham batted first and scored 108. The star of the Lenham bowling was Dave Seamen who took the perfect hat trick, caught bowled and LBW! and ended up with figures of just 4 for 9 off 3.5 overs. Lenham would have fancied their chances to reach the target but the weather intervened and the game was drawn with Lenham 72 for 2. Pete Humphries 25 not out and Tom Curtis 28 the main contributors.

Next up for the Sunday side was Smarden away. Smarden batted first and scored 213. Jack Ambrose and Jack Gracie each took 3 wickets. Lenham were skittled out for 112 well short of their target.

Pete Humphries scored 29 and Tom Curtis 38.

The final game of the season saw Lenham host Sissinghurst. Len-

ham won the toss and scored 237. Martyn Smith scored 56 and Tom Curtis rounded off a top season with the bat scoring 117, and passing 1000 runs for the season.

Lenham looked well on target for a win with the opposition 8 down for 185 but bad light stopped play and the game was drawn.

If you’re interested in joining the club, please contact us at lenhamcc@gmail.com and remember, visitors are always welcome on match days – bring a picnic and enjoy a real family day out!

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The season ended on a high with the Saturday team winning the league and some much improved results for the Sunday side.

Thank you to all of those who have supported the club throughout the season. The Dog & Bear for the teas on a Saturday and Clare for the teas on a Sunday. The Red Lion for looking after us on a Sunday evening and last but not least the Social Club for hosting our meetings on a Monday evening.

I look forward to updating you on the progress of the club in 2014.

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Free information service available for all A FREE service is now available for all Kent residents to help them find which health and social care services are available for them.

The service is part of Healthwatch Kent, a new independent consumer champion for people who use Kent’s many health and social care services.

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Healthwatch’s Information and Signposting dedicated service is available to everyone and will help people to find the services that they require within the complex NHS system in Kent.

You can call them anytime on Freephone 0808 801 0102, alternatively email your enquiry to info@healthwatchkent.co.uk .

Talking about the service, Healthwatch’s Charlie Fox said, “We are getting calls and providing assistance to people from all over the county. For example, one customer had been struggling to find a local dentist with a winch to lift him from his wheel chair. Our team tracked one down for him and provided all the information he needed to make an appointment. We know how complicated it can be to find your way around

Free information service available for all

the health and social care system. Our team of trained staff can take the worry away and find the answers for you. I have no doubt that once people are more aware of our service then we can be of assistance to hundreds of people every week.”

Healthwatch Kent also wants to hear about peoples’ views and their experiences of local health and social care services. It will take your voice to the people who commission services in Kent and help to shape the future of health and social care services. To get involved visit our website at www. healthwatchkent.co.uk.

The team is based from, and supported by, Kent and Medway Citizen’s Advice (KAMCA).

55 or over?

You are warmly invited to attend the

Rural Older Persons Forum

to be held on Friday 15th November 2013 Doors open at 9.30am - A light lunch will be served at 1pm

LENHAM COMMUNITY CENTRE Groom Way Way Lenham ME17 2QT

Welcome address from Kent’s Older Persons Champion Cllr Paulina Stockell Rural Policing Barry Spruce, Partnerships and Communities—Kent Police The Winter Warming Scheme

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Developing Kent as a Dementia Friendly Community (Improving the quality of life for people living with dementia and their carers)—a new project from Kent County Council Stall holders of services and projects of interest to older people

This is a FREE event but it is VITAL that you call or email us to BOOK your place by 9th NOVEMBER 2013 for catering purpose RSVP to Sue at VAM on 01622 677337 or email office@vam-online.org.uk

If you haven’t been before, please leave full contact details (name, address, telephone and/or email) WANT TO GET INVOLVED AND MEET NEW PEOPLE? We are looking for volunteers who can spare us a couple of hours once every few months to join the Rural Forum steering group—tea and biscuits always provided as well as good company!

Please contact Danny on 01622 762403 if you are interested—new faces are always welcome

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Dates for Your Diary

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Mixed Doubled Play and Quiz Harrietsham Village Hall 7:30pm

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Mixed Doubles An Evening of two events: A play about a quiz & A Music quiz. Friday, November 8th at 7.30pm Harrietsham village hall Team tables of 6 to 8 Tickets £5 Bring your own drinks and nibbles. Light refreshments provided by HIB. All profits raised will be split between HIB, The New Allington Players & Motor Neurone Disease. Tickets are available from Andrew Rogers on 859352 or Janetta Sams on 859412

The Friends of St John the Baptist’s Church Barn Dance Harrietsham Village Hall 7:30pm

Dates for Your Diary

Plant Heritage Kent Group Talk Hollingbourne Village Hall 2:00pm

Plant Heritage Kent Group invite you to a talk ‘Extending the Season’ by Stephen Moore of Rapkyn’s Nursery on Sunday 13th October at 2.00 pm in Hollingbourne Village Hall all welcome, admission free Plants for sale, Homemade Teas.

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Harrietsham in Bloom, The New Allington Players and Sixpenny Piece present

The Friends of St John the Baptist’s Church, Harrietsham Barn Dance. Saturday 9th November 7.30pm: Harrietsham Village Hall.

The Friends of St John the Baptist’s church, Harrietsham will be holding a barn dance as above to raise funds for the upkeep of the church building.

Dance to the excellent Rattle the Boards ceilidh band. Bring your own food and drink and have fun! Tickets and further details in October.

Egerton Music Club Classical Concert Millennium Hall, Egerton 6:00pm

THE STOUR WIND QUINTET A POPULAR CLASSICAL CONCERT Including music by Ibert and Debussy 6.00pm Sunday 17th November MILLENNIUM HALL, EGERTON, TN27 9DS. Tickets £12.00 for non-members. £10.00 for members. Children free. From 01233 756254/756259 Or Egerton Village Shop

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Leeds Castle and Hollingbourne Garden Society Wine and Wisdom Evening Village Hall 7:00pm

Leeds Castle and Hollingbourne Garden Society Invite you to come to our Wine & Wisdom Evening on Friday 18th October in the Village Hall at 7.00 for 7.30. A fun Quiz with Ploughman’s Supper bring your own drinks and glasses Tables for 6/8 or come on your own Tickets £6.50 Phone 880457 to book a place.

NOV

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Lenham Family Festival Showcase Event Lenham Community Centre 6:00pm

Make a date in your diary and join us to listen to local performers and artists in a relaxed, fun environment for all the family. Saturday 23rd November 6 - 9pm at the Community Centre Tickets £5 each (under 18’s £3) available at the Community Centre 859412/859682 or on the evening at the door. Bring your own refreshments. This is a fund raising event for the chosen charities of the 2014 Family Festival Alzheimers Society, Demelza Children’s Hospice and Cancer Research UK/ Thank you for your support

Mid Winter Craft Market Tithe Barne Lenham’s medieval tithe barn is to be the host venue for a pre-Christmas handmade Craft, art and produce market. The market, to be held over the weekend of 23rd/24th November 2013, is believed to be one of the largest of its kind seen in the county this year. It will showcase the work of mainly Kent based artisans working with a wide range of materials as diverse as clay, glass, iron, wood, wool and silver. Also including producers selling meat, cheese, honey, conserves, wine, chocolate & many more.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the craftsmen and purchase some original and unique gifts. Sharon Prior, representing organiser Cloth and Clay, said “We have tried to include something for everyone in respect of the diversity of product on display and the price range.

We will be offering a light lunch and refreshments all day, it is our hope that visitors of all ages will find plenty

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to keep them interested and entertained There is no charge for entry or parking and the charity we are supporting this year is DEMELZA children’s hospice appeal. The market will be open from 10am until 4pm on both Saturday 23rd & Sunday 25th November.

St Edmunds Centre Quiz St Edmunds Centre Platts Heath 7:00pm QUIZ NIGHT AT ST EDMUNDS CENTRE PLATTS HEATH.

7 FOR 7.30 START 22

£5 A HEAD, TEAMS OF UP TO 6 PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN REFRESHMENTS TO BOOK A TABLE CALL 858208 HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

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Family Festival Meeting Lenham Community Centre 7:15pm FAMILY FESTIVAL MEETING THURSDAY 28th NOVEMBER 7.15pm Please join us at the Community Centre and become involved in the LENHAM FAMILY FESTIVAL. We need your ideas as to how to pro-

New Youth Worker

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NOV

SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER

duce a fun for all the family event for the local people, a community cohesion event, where all age groups will be welcome to help organise a stall or side show, join in the events and be part of a team. If you are able to help us we would like to meet you at our informal meetings and discuss your suggestions. The LENHAM FAMILY FESTIVAL activities span from Thursday 5th June to Sunday 8th June 2014 If you are a member of an organisation who would like to be part of the festival contact Margo on 859682 for more details, individuals who can offer a helping hand are equally welcome.

Lenhem Players Letter for Linda Lenham Community Centre 7:45pm

New Youth Worker HI, I’M ABIGAIL BEALE! I’m 23 years old and have recently moved to Harrietsham in mid September.

Originally from Sittingbourne, I’m a definite townie, so the country life is quite a different environment.

Where are the shops and traffic lights?!

Growing up, I lived a fairly ordinary life in Sittingbourne with my mum, dad and older sister. The whole experience of church, Christianity or God was alien to me, being an atheist until I was 20 years old. Heavy metal gigs in London and late night parties were more my comfort zone!

As fun as it was, it came at a high price – silly mistakes, destroying my body, hollow relationships and eventually an empty feeling that I couldn’t ignore anymore. The next step, the bigger experience, the best show, chasing the next big thing was never enough. It was all short-lived, a photo, a hangover, a memory, and I didn’t know what I wanted... or how to make the empty feeling that followed stop.

My search ended at a church in Sittingbourne, the last place I wanted to be! However what I found within was nothing like I’d expected. Despite my appearance or how reluctant I was to mix with anyone, they just loved me.

Not in the way I knew though, it was a genuine compassion for who I was, not for anything I did, said or behaved like. They told me that was how God feels about me, not despite my bad stuff, but because of my bad stuff; he is called the Father because we are his children, and he loves us as a parent does. I was meant to be in a relationship with God, but could only

choose it for myself. That’s what the empty feeling was, the lack of a constant, loving relationship with God. So, at 20 years old I became a Christian. In 3 short years my life has transformed. I spent a year volunteering with the children and youth team of my church when I wasn’t at my job, learning everything I could and using the great passion I have for children and young people to realise their potential. I then started a KCC apprenticeship with Sure Start children’s centres in Faversham working with young children and families.

Now I’m here on placement as an intern, working alongside Rev Dr Dick & Helen Venn and their team at the Len Valley Benefice churches in Boughton Malherbe, Harrietsham, Lenham and Ulcombe and training with with South West Youth Ministries in Somerset. There I am studying on a Christian course called Be Transformed, where I am learning more about practical children’s & families’ and youth work as well as getting a deeper understanding in my Christian faith, which is still very new!

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I can usually be found at various primary schools doing assemblies and Kingsquads; Messy Mums at Lenham or Messy Church, a few youth clubs around the villages in the evenings, and at the various 4 churches for family services and informal services. It’s great to be here and I’m excited to see what I can contribute to these fab places; look out for me and come and say hi!

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1914-1918 Anniversary The Great War

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In last month’s issue we asked for information and photographs to help the Hatch Charity’s planned publication to commemorate the 260 Lenham parishioners who served in the First World War. It is to be published on the hundredth anniversary of the war’s beginning on 4 August 1914.

Last month we listed some of the names in the list of 260 about whom we so far know little or nothing, and here is this month’s list. If you can help we would very much like to hear from you. On some we have factual details but lack more personal material.

Charles Baldock, killed in action.

There are several Charles Baldocks in the records and we need to establish which of them was connected to Lenham.

William or Philip Bellingham Burchett, William, Charles or Ernest.William was killed in action, but we are not sure how he relates to Lenham or to several of that name in the records.

Cornwall, Charles (possibly Cornwell); A mystery here. He was killed in action but we cannot trace him on any military or civilian records. It’s possible he was known by another name, e.g. Frederick Charles; it’s not a common surname and so far nothing has clicked.

Colville, John

1914-1918 Anniversary The Great War

Day, Charles Frederick or Percy or Edwin. The first two of these were well known in Lenham life, the first as registrar and chair of the Hatch charity, the second as a saddler in the Limes. But we don’t know anything of their private lives or families.

Fellows, Frederick Foreman, Walter Gilbert, Thomas (after the war he was a general carrier) Grey, John, son of the wartime doctor Dr Temperley Grey. John died in 1927.

Hollands, R.E Harris, Edward Hambley, Victor (we have information on his postwar life but lack family information) Howe, George, William, or Albert Hodgkin, George or Lewis Hill, William and Walter: William was killed in action, but so far we have no information on either of them. As William Hill is a common name he’s hard to track in official records without further information.

Hicks, Harry.

More names next month! Do please help if you can. A full list of the 260 men who went to war is available in the Community Centre. Or contact Nick Osborne on 07900585733 or Amy Myers on 01622 859915

Lenham Players – your local village drama group update We were very shocked this year to discover that our Chairman for the last four years was diagnosed with a brain tumour and sadly lost her battle in June.

For this reason we have had a very quiet year. Linda Gemmell will always be remembered as an integral and valued member of Lenham Players and we feel it very appropriate to mark our autumn production in her honour ...Letters for Linda.... an evening of fun and entertainment of songs and sketches that Linda really enjoyed...which we hope you will too.

Saturday 30th November at the Community Centre at 7.45pm

treading the boards, or becoming involved in building and creating a set, you will be very welcome to join us.

Our new Chairman is Mary Tapsfield on 01622 880448, Secretary is Jan Moll on 01622 850747 27

Tickets priced at £9.00 available at the Lenham Community Centre – Mon-Fri upto 12.00pm or at The Len Valley Newsagents.

We don’t have a licence to serve alcohol, but you are welcome to bring your own drinks and nibbles .

All profits from the evening will be equally shared between Heart of Kent Hospice and Cancer Research.

We are always looking for new members, whether on stage or behind the scenes, so if you are interested in trying your hand at

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Creating Space for Protected Wildlife Volunteers donned waders on Saturday, October 5th at Chilston Ponds near Lenham and took the plunge into the historic ice pond.

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The aim of the day was to remove some of the vegetation in the pond to prevent it from becoming completely covered by reed mace and other weeds. This is good news for the protected Great Crested Newts that are found in the pond as they need open water to perform their courtship ritual and is key to the survival of the species.

Some of the willow trees on the island in the middle of the pond were also cut down to create a more diverse habitat and also to provide a clear view of the historic ice house from the entrance of the park.

Mike Phillips of the Mid Kent Downs Countryside Partnership said, “It’s really encouraging to

Creating Space for Protected Wildlife

see people who care so much about the places where they live.

This sort of positive action taken by the Heaths Countryside Corridor is inspirational and shows what can be done when a community works together.”

The site is managed by local charity, Heaths Countryside Corridor, and formed part of the Heritage Lottery Funded Wandering and Wondering project. The next volunteer day will be held on Saturday, November 2nd and all are welcome. Contact the Mid Kent Downs Countryside Partnership on 01303 815170 for more details.

REMIX FRIDAY FILM CLUB, HARRIETSHAM VILLAGE HALL FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2013 NOW SHOWING ON OUR NEW STATE OF THE ART SCREEN Afternoon Matinee organised by Harrietsham Fish scheme. Doors open at 2pm for refreshments, prompt 2.15 start. The Help cert 12A An aspiring author during the civil rights movement of the 1960s decides to write a book detailing the African-American maids' point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis.

Contact Marjorie on 850657 if you require transport 5.30pm Polar Express cert U. Tom Hanks stars in this journey beyond imagination, this classic makes every moment magical. On Christmas Eve, a doubting boy boards a magical train that's headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus's home.

Admission ÂŁ2 for members.

Parental consent forms must be completed

7.50pm for refreshments, The Squid and the Whale cert 15, prompt 8pm start Based on the true childhood experiences of Noah Baumbach and his brother, The Squid and the Whale tells the touching story of two young boys dealing with their parents' divorce in Brooklyn in the 1980s.

Admission ÂŁ3 for members U18 need to be accompanied by an adult

Contact Janetta Sams on 859412 or email sams_uplands@yahoo.co.uk See www.harrietshamvillage.org.uk

We can print + deliver your loose A5 insert Get in touch for more details!

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Thoughts & Reports Christian Message November 2013

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The Dark End of the Year The clocks have gone back, the afternoons are drawing in, the nights are longer. Some people are happy to pull the curtains, settle down with a book or the TV and enjoy the dark end of the year. But for many people there’s a sense of sadness and loneliness: more time spent on their own; more time for thinking and depression and sadness.

Colours bleach away from the landscape and it can seem that colour is missing from our daily lives too.

Of course the shops have been trinked out with Christmas goodies since the back to school promotions ended in September.

But now we’re into November the frenzied rush towards the commercialisation of Christmas can be depressing too.

What can we do to restore our feelings of well being and contentment? Here’s a suggestion: take a poem or a verse of scripture to sit and chew over to give yourself some winter sunshine. Here’s a poem about the winter solstice:

Thoughts & Reports

Draw up the darkness, pull it round yourself; let winter settle as the light’s door closes, narrows to the soft, unwinking gaze of just one bright eye.

Rest.

The path before you has been marked: trust that the light will stretch each day by the length of a cockerel’s step, whose crows slough off winter, peel back the dawn.

(Katherine Venn) And here are a few verses from the Bible, from Romans 8: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

So may you find inner warmth and contentment in knowing the path has been marked out for you and

that nothing can separate you from God’s love in Christ. Let’s wait hopefully for the turning of the year when we can slough off winter and peel back the dawn again!

Helen Venn

Messy Church is back for the autumn term

Informal Service November Informal service In November we will be having our own take of “Songs of Praise” With the Rvd Dick Venn leading, we will worship the Lord with an informal communion service, combined with plenty of familiar worship music.

Have you been to Messy Church yet? An hour of games, messy construction, paint, glue and glitter. Activities for boys and girls, babies and grandparents, toddlers and teens. Then a chance to gather round for songs, story and prayer.

And finally a slap up tea for all the family. Church for families but on a Saturday afternoon at a time that suits you! So what are you waiting for! Here are our autumn dates and venues:

The service will be at St John’s Church, Harrietsham, on Sunday 24th November, at 6.30pm.

Please bring your families and friends and join us for praise and worship.

16th Nov Harrietsham School 14th Dec Lenham church

Hope to see you soon!

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Refreshments will be served after the service.

If you would like a lift to Church, please telephone the Church Office on 01622 850604.

Everyone is welcome to join us in worship and praise!

Peter Saunders

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Friends of St Mary’s Church, Lenham Do you care about our heritage and the preservation of an ancient and beautiful building?

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The Village Barn Dance – held on the 21 September The venue was idyllic; the atmosphere was full of energy and the band/caller was outstanding and very encouraging to all dancers.

Our second event of 2013 ‘The Village Barn Dance’ was a great success. One time we counted over 80 people up dancing in line, brilliant.

A big thank you must go to Valarie and John Arthur who kindly gave us the Tithe Barn for the event. Also, thanks to everyone who donated raffle prizes. Last but not least, thank you to all the people (150 of you) that come along and joined in the dancing; profits from this event were £1032. These profits will go

Friends of St Mary’s Church, Lenham

towards our second project of restoring the East Window above the altar which is in desperate need before it falls out……..

Next year’s ‘Village Barn Dance’ has already been booked, 27 September 2014; please add this date to your new year’s calendar and diary. You won’t want to miss it.

Thank you Lyn.fuller@hotmail.co.uk

GENERAL / SOCIAL NUMBERS Archaeological Society Badgers (St Johns Ambulance) Badminton Bowling Club Brownies (2nd Lenham) Drama Gardening Society Guides (1st Lenham) Lenham Badminton Club Lenham Nursery School Lenham Players Lenham Wanderers Lenham Social Club Harrietsham and Lenham Scouts Harrietsham and Lenham Cubs Mother’s Union Pilates Classes Royal British Legion St John Ambulance Women’s Institute Youth Centre St Edmunds Platts Heath Country Ways Quilters and stitchers Lenham ValleyBusiness Ass.

Lesley Feakes Mrs Manley Linda Bird Lyn Fuller Andrea French Gail Kelly Keith Varney Mrs J Thomsett Mrs Pat Abson Ami Rathmill David Abson Alf Smith Club Events Nick Still Mrs A Seales Mrs J Thomsett Vivien Elcomb Mr W Peter Mrs Bond Mrs C Toner Nicki Folland-Smith Karen Yardley Jan Haines Alan Reading

01622 850275 01622 842603 01233 756762 01622 851538 01622 851646 01622 850671 01622 850228 01622 859009 01622 858561 07967 128056 01622 858561 01622 859802 01622 858890 01622 859789 01622 859829 01622 859009 01622 853887 01622 850520 01622 205452 01622 850048 01622 859171 01622 858208 01233 714699 01622 820841

Borough Councillors:

Tom Sams John Barned (Roads, Pavements)

01622 859412 01622 851142 08458 247800 01622 602117 01732 847572 0800 776600 01622 842257 01622 859733 01622 679709 01622 853800 (am) 01622 858581 (pm) 01233 713317 01622 858341/859204 03000 242424 08454647 01622 851616 01622 859682 07772 226097 07870 252317 07977 981993 01622 858208 08458 274800

Kent Highway Services Dog Warden Cat Protection Drugs Helpline Heaths Countryside Corridor Lenham Enhancement Ass. Lenham Country Market Lenham Community Centre Lenham Heath Parish Hall LenValley Practice On Call Care NHS Direct Member of Parliament Parish Council Clerk Parish Police PCSO Police Constable Rural Community Warden St Edmonds Platts Heath Reporting Potholes

Lost and Found FREE CALL Ruth Lovering Brian Llong Kevin Fitzsimons Margaret Mitchell Sharon Reed Doctors Surgery South East Health Hugh Robertson MP Margo McFarlane Dave Rowley Brian Waghorne Colin Davey Karen Yardley

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Accounting & Business Services Air Conditioners Alarm Systems Barbers Beauty Parlours an therapist Builders/decorators

Butchers/Meat Carpentry Carpets/Flooring Caterers Catteries 36

Charted Surveyor Childminder Chimney Sweep Chiropody Cleaning/Housekeeping Clothing Computer Services

Cosmetic Clinic Dance Dressmaking/alterations Electricians/Gas fitters

Estate Agents

Contact Numbers

Stonebridge Associates RB Air Cybereye Security Sweeney Todd Mobile beauty therapist Alpha Andy and Paul Apollo Elwood (Painter/decorators) KRS Building/decorating KSE Home Improvements Lenham Decorating Services SR Interiors (painters/decorators) Stuttle Dyer (painters/decorators) G B Lister Snoad Farm Carpentry and General Building P Humpries Carpets direct Beaubray Caterers Little Dene Boarding Cattery Inkstand cattery James Collett Debbie Brett Invicta Chimney Sweep Afeneh Smith (mobile service) Heathers Chiropody Surgery Amy McLaughlin Phynix Domestic cleaning House proud valet The Little Attic A.C. Computers Harrietsham Computers Lynn MS Computer services The LenValley Cosmetic Clinic Lenham Ballet School Pam Hills AD Pink Electrics Barrie Weston Contractor Electrical Solutions Invicta Power Services/ Gas Fitters MGI Electrical Rockland Electrical Philip Jarvis

851542 07751466536 858612 07734950329 07738505575 762164 850437 07808414965 01634308933 851126 851400 858565 737225 859675 858220 01795890700 850364 858719 01233714999 763269 858510 859469 850608 01233714247 08003289877 853640 850376 07813030527 880028 07975513315 07530183895 850462 859442 745654 859969 852805 850329 858827 884774 01233712663 858794 850930 850055 07902017349 858241

Fitness Funeral Directors Furniture Restoration Gardeners Garages Greetings Vards Grocers Guitar Lessons Glass and Glazing Hairdressers Handbags and Jewellery HandyMan Holiday Let Home care Landscaping Locksmiths Logs Newsagents Osteopathy Pest Control Pharmacy Plumbers Pubs Roofing Schools Solicitors Taxi Tree Surgeons TV Ariels Veterinary Surgery Will Services

Activate Body and Soul 853750 A W Court 850840 Susan Surgey 01795227695 Just a Mow 859940 The Big Mow 07871088119 Gowers Garage 858210 Tricia Oliver 859226 Lenham Village Store 858255 Chris 07957214822 Glass n glaze 01233840768 Bow Window 858787 Phase Hairdressing 850001 Smarty’s 851150 Immyblingy 298129 Simon 01795890052 Dorset Cottage 851766 Audley Care 633101 Simplicare 01732526934 Ireland Landscapes 844605 Maidstone Landscapes and Paving 851222 A Short 07738658751 Seasoned Logs 07733328715 Len Valley news 858262 Graham Yates Bsc Ost (Hons) 01304379954 A D Pink 884774 Pest Purge 842481 Saxon Warrior 858287 All Fix Plumbing 851186 Epic Plumbimg 210298 Pure Plumbing 769722 The White Horse 859511 Carter Roofing 01795886084 R and D Roofing 858291 Lorenden 01795590030 Thornloe and Co. 859416 Arshed Mahmood 07770725129 Gez Clark 07784447200 Ambilly Tree Surgeons 859113 R & P TV ariel services 631717 Harrietsham Vets 858666 Maidstone Wills and trusts 08453884495

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Regular Daily & Weekly Events Daily Monday Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 38

Saturday Sunday

Activate Fitness Facilites

Line Dancing LenARA Brownies 2nd Lenham Pilates classes Line Dancing Redbacks Explorer Scouts

Activate Sports Swadelands 7am--8.30am & 5pm--9pm St Johns Hall, Ham Lane 4.30- 6.00pm 7.00-9.15pm Community Centre 8.-10.00pm Community Centre 9.30-11.30am (8-11 years) 6.30- 8.pm Great Chart Golf Ctre 10.30am Community Centre 8.pm Swadelands Ham Lane 7.00-9.30pm Cadets (10-18) 6.00-8.00pm Swadelands Ham Lane 7.00-9.30pm Community Centre 7.00pm-8.00pm 8.30 -9.30pm Community Centre 7.30- 9.00pm Lenham Primary Sch 6.15- 7.45pm Community Centre 11.30-12.30pm St Edmunds Platts Hth 8.pm Booth Hall Harrietsham 7.30.-9.30pm

H/sham&Lenham Beavers Guides 1st Lenham H/sham&Lenham Scouts Judo Club LenARA Keep Fit Lenham Youth Club

Harrietsham Scout Hut Community Centre Harrietsham Scout Hut Community Centre Community Centre Swadelands Ham Lane

Activate Fitness Facilites French Books for Children Tea/Coffee/Cakes Sunday Schools

Activate Sports Hall Swadelands 8am- 5pm Harrietsham Primary School 9.30-11.30am St Mary’s Church 10.00-12.00noon see separate church services page

St Johns Ambulance Badminton (Feathers) Parent & Toddlers Group Harr & Lenham Cubs LenARA Pitch & Putt Lenham Badminton Club Lenham Youth Club St Johns Ambulance Lenham Youth Club Pilates classes

2nd Tuesday Derby & Joan 2nd Tuesday Royal British Legion 2nd Tuesday Citizens Advice Bureau 1st Tuesday Lenham Valley 1st Wednesday Parish Council Meeting 4th Wednesday LenARA (active retired) Last Wednesday Archaeology Club 1st Thursday Reading Group 2nd Thursday Women’s Institute 3rd Thursday Last Saturday Len&Har. Disability Grp 2nd Sunday Lenham Country Market

Regular Daily & Weekly Events

Lenham House Lenham Social Club Harrietsham Village Hall Business Association Community Centre Community Centre Community Centre Lenham Library Community Centre Community Centre Lenham House The Village Square

5.45- 7.15.pm 7.00- 9.00pm 7.30- 9.30pm 5.30- 8.30pm 2.00- 3.30pm 7.30-10.00pm

2.00pm 8.pm 10.-12noon 6-8pm 7.30pm 2.pm 7.30pm 4.45--5.45pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 10.30am 9.- 1.00pm

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Lenham Parish Council Brief report on the LPC meeting held on 2nd October 2013

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Public Participation: Members of the public who wished to speak; The Chairman introduced Mr Christopher Garland the Leader of Maidstone Borough Council, who had kindly given up his own time to attend the LPC meeting to further explain the MBC Local Plan delivery time and how that affects the Lenham Neighbourhood Plan time scale. The chairman advised C/G that the LPC had put their NHP on hold for the past few months, waiting for MBC to produce its Local Plan, as it was thought that some of the work would be duplicated and the LPC would like to become involved and work with MBC on their Local Plan to prevent this happening. C/G advised that he believed that it was a good idea for the LPC to stall its NHP process until MBC had identified the SHLAA sites and had made recommendations on which ones they would put forward for development, which should be early next year, with the Local Plan completed later that year. The Chairman advised that the LPC were looking to put on an exhibition for local parishioners as soon as the sites were confirmed and also have a

Lenham Parish Council

Design Statement in place by then.

There was quite a long debate on the subject, and C/G offered to be invited back any time if further explanations and updates were required by the LPC. The Chairman thanked C/G for giving up his own time to attend the LPC meeting, and also thanked Cllr. Newman for leading the NHP project up to this point, but was sorry that he had had to resign from the LPC as he was moving away from the area shortly. All Councillors thanked him for his planning expertise whilst serving on the LPC and all the input he had given over those years he had served as a Lenham Parish Councillor, and wished his wife and himself, all the very best for the future in the West Country.

Mr. B. Long advised Kent Community Warden that the entrances to both schools along Ham Lane were unsafe at opening and closing times, both schools needed some form of police in attendance to monitor the movement of cars before somebody had an accident in the vicinity. B/L also advised that a Highways sign along the A20 was in need of attention.

PCSO Dave Rowley who did not

attend the meeting had not given a written report of last months reported crime figures.

The Chairman opened the main meeting:

chairman asked Cllr. Greenwood if he had any further information on the suggested change of route of Swadelands school bus/coach route. Cllr. Greenwood who is a Governor of the School advised that he had heard nothing more about the proposal but he would investigate further at the next full Governors meeting. The change in route was to bring the buses/ coaches through the village centre up the High Street and then into Ham Lane to school rather than the route now in use down Ham Lane off the A20 and straight in to the school; it had been muted that the new choice of route would be the safer option which Councillors thought was very questionable.

WC’s lease: It was agreed by full Council to take over the 15 year lease of the public toilets as long as there was a get out clause put in to the lease wording; a further 2 quotes would be sought on the refurbishment of the internal sanitary ware. The LPC are also investigating the possibility of having a CCTV camera to monitor the toilets as there has been a certain amount of mindless vandalism attacks of the toilets of late.

Matters Arising: Swadelands proposed change of its bus/coach bus route: The

A20 pathway on the North-side of the A20: The Clerk advised that the pathway was now clear.

KCW Martin Sherwood reported that he had received no further complaints of rogue traders operating in the local area. M/S advised that the KCC contact number had changed recently to 03000414141.

M/S advised that the winter warm event would take place 10th October 2-00pm to 4-00pm, in Lenham Community Centre and some of the patch-work quilts made by local parishioners would be handed out to the elderly.

KCC Ward member Jenny Whittle did not attend the meeting, but the chairman advised that he would be asking J/W of any progress she had made on the A20/Faversham Road junction improvements with Kent Highways Services and also the outcome of the Kent County Council’s survey on an extension to Lenham Primary School, in readiness for the proposed influx of more development of houses, as proposed in the MBC Local Plan.

41

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LPC Continued...

42

Public Telephone Box, in Lenham Square: the LPC had decided to adopt the telephone box, there is now a 90 day consultation going on between B.T. and MBC to see if they agree to its adoption.

Sunday Farmers Market: It was decided by full Council that to have representatives at the market would stop. It was thought that enough Parish Councillors attended the market for the general public to approach them and inform them of any problems that they had encountered or any ideas to enhance the future of Lenham for its parishioners.

Reports & Committees/Spokespersons: Finance & General Purpose: The Chairman advised that all recommendations made at both F&GP meetings had been agreed by full Council.

Planning: Cllr. Huggens had distributed his report and asked if any Councillors had any questions on his written report on the Planning meetings held on 21st August 2013, there were no questions muted. The Chairman advised that a response letter concerning the Public Inquiry about the proposed creation

LPC Continued...

of a motocross track at Runham Lane had been sent off to MBC Planning Department, also Alison Broom Chief Executive of MBC and Chris Garland the Leader of MBC. The LPC were complaining at the way the appeal against the MBC Enforcement Order had been dealt with, it was such a debacle; the LPC are now awaiting a reply from MBC. Groom-Way Development: The Chairman advised that the sale of LPC land in Groom Way was now nearing completion, a matter of signatures, which was all that was required for completion.

Cllr. Osborn gave an update on the additional Affordable Housing for the site; there are 2 proposals from Golding Homes; 1. Three 2 bedroom houses, option 2. Two 2 bedroom houses and a bungalow, Golding Homes are still exploring what is the best option for the size of the site, not wishing the site to look cramped in any way.

Neighbourhood Plan: The Chairman advised that there had been no further progress made on the NHP, but LPC were looking to working together with MBC planning Department on some form of presentation showing the suggested SHLAA sites

that have been identified in the Parish, and consideration made by the Lenham Parishioners on the best sites for expansion of the village in the future.

Highways and Transportation: The Chairman read out Cllr. Bones written report, there were no questions.

Law & Order: The Chairman reported that another 3 CCTV cameras had been set up around the village, 2 at the William Pitt Field and 1 covering the Children’s Play Area in Ham Lane. Cllr. Bone had taken on the project and funds to complete the project had come from grants obtained by the LPC, so no cost for the buying and installation of the CCTV cameras falls on local parishioners. The costings of a 4th CCTV camera is being investigated to cover the Public Toilets in the Maidstone Road, which are covered at this moment in time by the CCTV camera sited on the side of the Post Office in the Square.

The chairman requested that the LPC host the Police Forum meetings for the next 2 years starting in 2014 after he had consulted the Parish Clerk; full Council agreed to this request. There would be a small cost incurred for room rent-

al and refreshments; tea, coffee and biscuits.

Environment: Cllr. Greenwood requested a meeting with LPC representatives to put together a plan of maintenance for the Churchyard, he would report back at the next LPC meeting. Cllr. Greenwood had also obtained a quote to cut the hedge that runs the boundary of Groom Way on its Eastern edge; the full Council agreed the quote. It was agreed to gain further quotes on the refurbishment of two further village signs, the first having been completed, and every Councillor was happy with the standard of work carried out.

43

Reports from outside meetings: The Chairman advised that he had sent out minutes and reports on the two meetings he had attended on behalf of LPC, and were there any questions; there were none.

The Clerk advised that she would be the LPC representative at the Winter Warm event.

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44

Š Andy Flood Photography This photo was supplied by Andy Flood, a photographer based on the outskirts of Maidstone.

45

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Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings Following last month’s theme of the old 1841 map I thought you might like to see the section further south that covers The White Horse and Sandway.

48

You may be surprised to see that what we call Sandway was then labelled Biggin Heath and the White Horse stood at Sandway.

This map is very interesting as you can see the fields that must have once been a lake. They were probably fed by the trickle of stream that now feeds into the swampy area just east of Kiln wood and the lake most likely had another spring as well. A friend, Roger Cockett of KAS, has just sent me a query about a snippet of information that says in Lambarde (circa 1570):-

Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings

“The river Len issueth at Bygon Hoath in Leneham,” so at last we have written proof that a source of the Len once rose at Biggin Heath (alias Bygon Hoath) And as Biggin Heath translates as “the dwelling place”it gives some proof in black and white that Lenham once stood on the Len! Apparently, the Mapplesden Family (that Roger was researching) moved from Biggin Heath (alias Bygon Hoath) and inhabited a house in Knightrider Street, Maidstone, which became known as Digons (alias Bigons). Unfortunately Knightrider Street is one that has long suffered destruction, the house is no longer there, even the house of George Washingtons family was also pulled down, in 1964.

The lake near Sandway possibly spilled over a weir and flowed down the cut where Lenham Heath road

dips down towards Harrietsham. I had long wondered if that deeply gouged lane had been eroded out by water. Thorne’s chronicle of the St Augustines says that the monks had two water mills in Lenham, Abbotts Mell and Slakke . Any ideas as to which one possibly stood at Biggin? (alias Sandway?) That area has the name Spittle Crouch on some maps. Crouch meaning a cross way and Spittle could have been a hospital? There was a 16thC house of that name I believe (will have to ask Roger about that).

It is great when there is cross referencing between researchers, this is not the first time Roger has come up with information re Lenham and I was glad to help him with the whereabouts of ‘Bygon Hoath’!

Incidentally, Slakke Mill could have been near Runham , has anyone ever looked ? For there is a large area of slack water, but difficult to work out the old landscape with M20 and rail disruptions.

If you look again at last months map you will see Kissing Tree

Field in the top right (sorry but the word ‘Tree’ got left out.) That is the field where some Roman pots, including mortaria, were found by Andrew Oxford (teacher at Swadelands ) and Lord Monckton in 1986 . For some reason Brian Philp , (who excavated the Romano-British site at Runham ) did not believe there were mortaria found in that assemblage from Kitchen Tree Field. Perhaps he just did not remember seeing them …anyway Lord M had given some of these to Martin Porter who passed them on to me as pots for LAS archives.

Andy originally found them with Lord Monckton and he described to me how Lord M’s eyes lit up at a large piece of cream mortarium.

The one that fits Andy’s description exactly is drawn here (no.1) with a photograph, it has a lot of trituration = gritty flint and quartz surface for grinding food in the mortar with a pestle.

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Continued... coating (on a terracotta coloured sherd) is cream rather than grey as it looks like here.

John-Arthur Boyd has kindly said we can do a small dig to find out what the site is after harvest next year.

Lesley Feakes 01622 850275 606@ feakes.com Lenham Gardening Society

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Richard Filmer was our speaker in September who gave a talk on Hop Picking in Kent. This may appear boring but in Richard’s hands it proved to be full of interesting anecdotes, wonderful pictures and facts which most of us were unaware of. Some members commented how it evoked memories of the days when Kent was a major provider to the brewery Industry.

21st November will be our members only AGM, we have almost 90 members so please all come along and find out what we have been doing and suggestions for 2014.

You are more then welcome to ask questions, raise concerns or just let us know how you think we are doing. Its your society so please come and have your say!

There will be various lists with suggested outings for you to tick if

Continued...

interested or add your own ideas.

If you would like to join our committee or become one of the officers please let us know either beforehand or on the night.

The AGM will be followed by a Cheese & Wine social, all food & drink provided, tickets for which are available, at £6 ahead, from Pat on 859084.

Please remember that we have no meeting in December, our next meeting will be January 16th. You may wish to make a date for our Winter Social which will be held on February 20th.

Happy Gardening Keith Chair LGS Lenham W.I. Where has this year gone? I cannot believe that I am writing about November and December meetings already!! In November we have a welcome return visit from Barbara Stevens who will be speaking about the perils of Public Speaking. If you fancy trying a W.I. Meeting, I recommend this one!!In December we will be entertained at our Christmas meeting by the ”Coffee House Quartet” anybody who enjoyed the Cream Teas at St

Mary’s back in the summer, will know that we are in for a treat!!

On November 25th there is also a District Meeting at Harrietsham when we will be entertained by Mr. Harrison singing Harry Secombe.

Lenham members will recommend this evening since we have had this gentleman entertain us on several occasions.

Gill Simes

Jenny, Olive, Sue, Zoe, Martin, Tom and Nina

60+ Young at Heart

In October we were a bit short on helpers but not to worry Judy, Lin and Elaine came to our rescue.

Thank you girls for all your help.

Next month Thursday 7th November 2013 we have a lady artist coming to show us her paintings.

We are looking forward to that very much.

Hope everyone has been enjoying the late sunshine. It’s given me time to get the garden in order (well most of it!)

Everyone seemed to enjoy the fish and chips on Thursday 19th 2013.

A big thank you to Les Chapman.

Also thank you to the mystery lady (you know who you are) who provided the cup cakes. Very naughty but nice!

Our next meeting Thursday 21st November 2013 2.00-4.00pm will be a talk by John Arthur Boydd called Trip to Parkistan. That should be very interesting.

Once more our thanks to all who help. Without which we would not be able to have such wonderful afternoons.

If anyone needs a lift please contact Jenny on 01622859208.

Hub Club Age UK Martin did us proud with the Picture Quiz on Thursday 3rd October.

I think we all had to use ‘our little grey cells’. There were one or two new faces and we hope you enjoyed the afternoon.

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Thanks to everyone for coming.

Jenny, Olive, Sue, Zoe, Martin, Tom and Nina Royal British Legion Women’s Section On the 28th November we are holding our usual seasonal tea in the community centre at 3pm for a 3:30pm start. Tickets are £6 and available from Eve on 01622 858478. Do come and join us to start the seasonal festivities.

Enid LaPlain

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Safety & Security

The Honywood & Douglas Charity

Take Care on Bonfire Night

LENHAM (Registered Charity No.211272)

In a few more weeks we will be buying our fireworks and building our bonfires, but don’t forget the safety rules.

Never put petrol or paraffin on the fire, keep fireworks under cover, never pick up fireworks if they appear to have gone out, don’t throw fireworks and ensure children holding sparklers are wearing gloves.

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If you are unfortunate enough to get injuries, small burns and scolds can be treated by cooling under or in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce the heat. Larger burns will require medical attention as soon as possible. Remove any rings or watches while cooling the area. Do not burst blisters. Cover with cling film or clean non-fluffy material. A hand or foot and be put in a clean plastic bag. Sparks in the eye can be flushed with cold water, if the spark cannot be removed or the eye still hurts, as the spark was probably very hot, hospital treatment will be required. Burns or scalds to babies and children should always be seen by a doctor. Have a happy and safe evening.

N. T. Colbran, St John’s Ambulance

Safety & Security

The Trustees hereby give notice that the following almshouse accommodation is available at Douglas Court:A bungalow comprising sitting room, kitchen and bathroom at Douglas Court, Faversham Road, Lenham.

Applicants must be 60 years of age or more, able to look after themselves and have lived in the Parishes of Lenham or Boughton Malherbe for at least two years.

Applications should be made in writing to the Secretary, as below, to reach her no later than 22nd November, 2013:Mrs. Pat Sutton, 8 Headcorn Road, Platts Heath, Lenham, Kent. ME17 2NH

Meet the Commissioner Event – 6th November 2013 I’m delighted to invite you to my fourth ‘Meet the Commissioner’ event on the evening of Wednesday 6th November 2013.

The event will start at 6:30pm at the Angel Leisure Centre, Angel Lane, Tonbridge, TN9 1QH until approximately 8.30pm.

Some of you may have attended previous Meet the Commissioner events, so I do hope you spread the word amongst colleagues, members, constituents and parishioners.

I want to make sure I am representing your views as your Commissioner. So if you have an issue or a question you want to put to me on any subject then please come along.

Every event is unique, with different partnership and policing issues being debated openly in a public forum.

677055.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Best Wishes, Ann Barnes Kent Police and Crime Commissioner 53

The Kent Police Chief Constable, Ian Learmonth, will also be attending the event to answer any questions on operational policing matters.

Book your place via www.kentpcc.gov.uk/meetthecommissioner. html or call my office on 01622

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Thank You!

I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone in the village for all their wishes, beautiful cards and very kind gifts.

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We had a truly wonderful day on Cameo Island, together with our family and friends, all 42 of us!!

You will all be pleased to know that the tradition of the shorts was not broken even for this special day.

Keith The Postie

Thank You!

UNDERSTANDING DENTAL HEALTH A SERIES BY LENHAM DENTAL SURGERY

Part 1: Your Gums and the

diseases that affect them • • • •

Your mouth mainly comprises of gums, teeth and the soft tissues surrounding them.

Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease) means infection or inflammation of the tissues that surround the teeth.

Depending on the severity, gum disease is generally divided into two types - gingivitis and periodontitis.

It is a common problem in adults affecting 3 out of 4, though teenagers and young children who don't brush or floss regularly may also be at risk.

What causes gum disease?

Poor oral hygiene and plaque are the main causes. This stage is followed by build up of tartar or calculus, which cannot be removed by brushing and is very detrimental to oral health.

Other risk factors include • • • • • •

Smoking Hormonal changes Diabetes Other illnesses that suppress immunity Certain medications Genetic susceptibility

How to recognize gum disease?

Gum disease develops slowly and generally without any symptoms. However the signs to look out for are: • Red, shiny, puffy or sore gums

• •

Bleeding gums when you brush or floss Constant bad breath Receding gums Mouth sensitivity and discomfort without reason Pus from the gums or teeth Wobbly or loose teeth

Can gum disease cause health problems beyond the mouth?

Evidence suggests that there is a link between gum disease and heart disease, poorly controlled diabetes and premature childbirth.

How can you prevent or treat gum disease?

•

Brush twice a day for at least two minutes ensuring that your technique involves both the teeth and the gums.

•

Clean between your teeth using floss or interdental brushes

•

Educate children about good oral hygiene from an early age

•

Consult your dentist/oral health educator* for advice on prevention

•

Attend for regular check ups. Remember early detection is the key to successful treatment

•

Consider quitting smoking

61

* Miss Michelle Lloyd (Oral Health Educator) provides free educational sessions at Lenham Dental Surgery.

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Winter Plumbing Emergencies The darker evenings are coming and cold winter weather is on its way. Below is a reminder about how to care for your central heating system and pipes as temperatures drop.

We don’t want anyone being chilly and without hot water during the cold winter months

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• Ensure you know where the stop valve is on the incoming water supply – it may be helpful to label the valve so it can be found quickly in an emergency. Before winter arrives, check that the valve is working properly and arrange to have it repaired if necessary.

• Familiarise yourself with any other valves around your home that you may need to access in a hurry if damage or freezing occurs.

• Check to make sure that any water storage tanks and pipes are insulated sufficiently. Contact a plumber if you are unsure about the correct type of insulation. This could reduce having to deal with frozen or burst pipes in the middle of a winter night!

• When the weather gets particularly cold, it may be worth leaving the loft hatch open if you

Winter Plumbing Emergencies

have cold water tanks within the loft, as this allows some of the heat from the rest of house to circulate and helps to avoid frozen pipes and water systems.

• If you notice a consistent drip or continuously running overflow pipe, call a plumber as soon as possible to prevent a minor issue from turning into a major one.

• Always have your heating and plumbing systems inspected and serviced at least once a year.

• Stock up on heating oil before the winter leaves you out in the cold. Previous severe winters show it’s better to order early when suppliers have spare delivery capacity.

• Look up local registered plumbers and heating engineers and keep their contact details handy. Always ensure that anyone you employ is fully qualified and that they have identification: o

To work with gas you will

require a Gas Safe registered contractor. o To work with oil you will require an OFTEC registered contractor. o To work with electricity you will require an NICEIC or similar registered contractor.

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Church Services in Len Valley Benefice Services in November 3rd November – All Saints

8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 8am Harrietsham BCP Holy Communion 9.30am Harrietsham Family Worship 9.30am Boughton Holy Communion 11am Lenham Holy Communion 11.15am Ulcombe Family Worship

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10th November – Remembrance Sunday 8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 10.15am Harrietsham Remembrance Service 10.30am Boughton Remembrance Service 10.30am Ulcombe Remembrance Service 10.45am Lenham Remembrance Service 17th November– 2nd Sunday before Advent 8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 9.30am Harrietsham Morning Worship 9.30am Boughton Holy Communion 11am Lenham Holy Communion 11.15am Ulcombe Morning Worship 24th November – Christ the King (Sunday next before Advent) 8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 9.30am Harrietsham Holy Communion 9.30am Boughton Family Worship 11am Lenham Family Worship 11.15am Ulcombe Holy Communion 6.30pm Harrietsham Informal

Church Services in Len Valley Benefice

Prize Crossword Please leave your completed crossword entry at LENHAM LIBRARY on or before the 20th of the month

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Across clues

Down clues

1. Easy (6) 5. What catches a snooker ball (6) 8. Shakin’……., pop singer (7) 9. A type of Vermouth (7) 11. Serious infection in both lungs (6,9) 12. ‘Have one’s …. and eat it’ (4) 13. People who live in Reykjavik are (10) 17. Happening before something else (10) 18. Animal manure (4) 20. Something that has been proved to be true (11,4) 23. Term for an Italian lady (7) 24. It blows nobody any good. (3,4) 25. Very quick (musical term) (6) 26. Looking at (6)

2. It keeps your wine bottle cool. (3,6) 3. A Spanish dish (6) 4. A leisurely stroll is this (4,5) 5. Cost (5) 6. Attractive (8) 7. A brand of luxury mineral water (5) 8. Small places of worship attached to churches (4,7) 10. Myopic (4,7) 14. Something that happens at around 1pm (9) 15. Teaching (9) 16. A plant of the teasel family (8) 19. A font particularly used by newspapers (6) 21. It burnt bright in the forests of the night (5) 22. The last stage of an insect’s life (5) Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Success comes from working together.

If you would like to meet this number of potential customers in one place . . . . . . then you better come to Chilston Park at 5.45pm on Tuesday 3 December!

Lenham Valley Business Association will be inviting South Maidstone Business Association to join them in a combined networking meeting.

Each month, normally on the first Tuesday, we meet somewhere within the area from Harrietsham to Charing to Ulcombe, and we network. It’s easy, it’s fun and it’s a happy event. See our website for full information and see our ‘networking’ page for the photos, dates and venues, our ‘join now’ page for the prices (sole traders just £65pa) and the ‘benefits’ page for the things you may be currently missing out on!

Tuesday 3 December at Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham. Our speaker is Peter Homewood, Vice Chairman of Kent County Council. Remember the timings for the meetings - arrive 5.45pm for 6pm, meetings finish around 8pm. 01622 820 841 to talk to Alan Reading LVBA Chairman or you can doitall@lenhambusiness.co.uk if you prefer to email. We look forward to hearing from you.

Try it you just might like it!

Keep up to date (& to join) www.lenhambusiness.co.uk or call 01622 820841 Advertisers

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Full page: 122.7x184.6mm 1/2 page: 122.7x91.6mm

1/4 page: 60.7x91.6mm 1/8 page: 60.7x44.9mm

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Last months crossword solution Last months winner was Clive Lennard of Lenham Heath.

We specialise in the following roofing services: •Period & New Tiling • Slating •Leadwork • Facias & Soffits • Chimney Re Pointing or Removal • Flat Roofing • Guttering • Velux Installation •Repairs to Re-Roofs

15 YEARS EXPERIENCE •FREE, HONEST ESTIMATES Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

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Published by Lenham Focus Lenham Focus is published by the Lenham Focus Team. Any opinions expressed are those of the contributors and not the publishers. Every 71 care is taken in compiling the contents of the magazine to ensure that they are correct and accurate at the time of printing and the publishers accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions. The publication of advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the publishers. Authors of articles and advertisements in Focus take full responsibility to ensure they obtain any prior permission for use of copyright materials.

Focus is Distributed by Volunteers to: Lenham Village, Lenham Heath, Platts Heath, Sandway, West Street, Woodside Green and Warren Street.

For ‘Out of Town’ Readers Distribution Natwest Bank Lenham, Chequers Fish Bar, Lenham Post Office, Len Valley Newsagents and Harrietsham Post Office.

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Five Fantastic Years!

Philip Jarvis Estate Agent opened it’s doors in the Autumn of 2008 and has achieved so much during this time ....

1.

Sold property worth over £50,000,000!

2.

A letting portfolio of over 100 properties

3.

Helped move over 1100 people

4.

Recruited and developed a local team of five professionally qualified staff

5.

Won the highly acclaimed & prestigious Negotiator Award for ‘Best Newcomer of the Year 2011’ We still have so much more we want to do!

To discover how Philip Jarvis Estate Agent can help you with your moving requirements please call on 01622 858241, visit us at 1 The Square, Lenham or email us at homes@philipjarvis.co.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you.