Lenham Focus | October '13

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OCTOBER 2013 VOLUME 15 ISSUE 10 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 ....

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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.

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Welcome...

Hopefully everyone will notice we are still working to get the New Look Focus perfected and we appreciate all the good feedback received and please keep this coming. If you think you can help on the Focus team please also get in touch, we are always looking for more assistance.

On the 19th Lenham Enhancement Association are holding an introductory planting session and we would encourage everyone to get involved to help support this great association in keeping the village looking great.

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On the 5th there is a flu clinic at Lenham Surgery with a further clinic at Harrietsham Surgery on the 16th. If you think you are entitled to attend these please get in contact with your surgery.

On the 19th there is the annual Hope Ball in aid of Emilia’s Little Heart, this is a great night on behalf of an excellent charity and we would recommend this to anyone who wants a great night out.

Welcome

James Collett Focus Editor 01622 850608 lenham-focus@tiscali.co.uk

Lenham Focus Volume 15 Issue 10 | October 2013 Circulation 2000

OCT 13 Editor: James Collett 01622 850608 | lenham-focus@tiscali.co.uk Advertising: Annie Drylie (On maternity leave) Please contact James | focusadverts@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 Report from Councillor Tom Sams Firstly, can I thank Bipin Patel from the Saxon Warrior Chemist, Dr Graham Hagan from the medical practice and Sue Southon from the Patients Forum for their joint cooperation to provide patients with a better service for the dispensing of prescriptions. Thank you.

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At the Borough Council an extraordinary meeting was called by six councillors to debate if “the council did not have a 5 year supply of housing sites as required by Government” The motion from evidence supplied from Boughton Monchelsea Parish Council, and with legal opinion said that the Councils arguments were fundamentally flawed. The definition of what was a “windfall site” and what was not was the subject of the heated debate. The issue will now be put to the planning, transport and development overview scrutiny committee for them to call witnesses and interview council officers. This is fundamental to the Borough and its decision to release greenfield sites for development.

Borough Council Corner

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

Finally following July’s Focus, can I ask if there is anyone able to help, Swadelands with their young gardening club, to provide funding for them to construct their raised beds to contact Brian & Jo Llong on 859733.The children are keen and enthusiastic and a credit to the school.

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The White Horse Sandway ~ a traditional public house ~

Tuesday to Friday Lunch including Tuesday evening: 2 courses for £10.50 / 3 courses for £13.50

Wednesday night Steak Night 8oz steak for £12.50

Christmas Party + Christmas Day Menus Available Now

Live music 1st Friday of the month 01622 859511 Lenham Heath Road, Sandway whitehorsesandway.com

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Winter Warmer We have had a better summer this year after a late spring but I would like you to think about those who struggle to keep warm during the winter months. We all expect our heating costs to go up as it gets colder and the nights start to draw in but for some a big bill is a big problem.

You may recall that in the May issue I told you about an event I was hoping to organise in the autumn. The details are as follows;

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Winterwarm Information Event From 2pm to 4pm On Thursday, 10th October 2013 In the foyer of Lenham Community Centre Representatives from Kent Fire and Rescue, Hi Kent, Age UK, Golding Homes and Brighter Futures will be there to offer information and advice on a range of issues. I will also be there with some of the blankets that have been made by people across Maidstone Borough. So, if you need help or advice, or you know someone who does, come along on the day.

Winter Warmer

For further information call Martin Sherwood Kent Community Warden for Lenham and Harrietsham On 07 977 981 993 Or email me on martin.sherwood@ kent.gov.uk

Friends of St Mary’s Lenham Presents A brass ensemble evening performed by

www.fineartsbrass.co.uk

Saturday 26 October St Mary’s Church Doors Open 7:00pm starts @ 7.30pm Tickets: £10.00 (Includes a glass of wine/soft drink plus nibbles) Tickets can be purchased purchased from either:   

Len Valley Newsagent, High St, Lenham St Mary’s Church’s coffee morning 10.00am every Saturday Or, Contact Lyn Fuller on 01622 851538

Emilia’s Little Heart registered charity: 1145863

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The last few months have been very busy for the charity with many people fundraising or donating to the charity for us to be able to carry out our work.

We would like to thank Liz McLaren for her kind donation towards the vouchers we purchased for our young ambassadors, who have continued to raise money for us throughout the year and raised over £500 at their school sports day. They are a real credit to their family and themselves and that is why we have asked them to become young ambassadors for Emilia’s Little Heart.

Katie Pounder and Lottie, aged 13.

We would also like to thank again the parents who have children at my husband’s school, West Malling C of E Primary School, who again took out time out of their busy lives to raise money for the charity. On Sunday 14th July, the KM Group held a Dragon Boat race at Mote Park and 28 people took part in the races and raised over £1500 for the children in hospital. Even one of the three boats that raced came in

Emilia’s Little Heart

first, well done to all who took part.

We will use the money to buy tablet computers, cameras and printers for the hospitals we support.

Mike Deacon, Lee John Fisher and James Pearton took on a challenge bank holiday weekend to bike ride 125 miles each day from Land’s End to Broadstairs. It was an amazing feat that they achieved personally as well as raising money for the charity.

Without people like these three guys wanting to challenge themselves and selflessly raising money for charities like ourselves we wouldn’t be able to carry out our work. If you have often thought about doing a challenge and would like the incentive of doing it and raising money for a good cause, please consider Emilia’s Little Heart.

We are a local charity and we make a difference locally.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Beech Grove Community for inviting the trustees Darren and Claire down to spend lunch with them and sharing our beautiful angel Emilia’s story and the charity’s work with them too. They continue to support our work and would like to thank them for donating an auction prize for the forthcoming Hope Ball.

The Kent Police Cadets have selected the charity as the one they would like to raise money for during their training.

Thank you to Mark Newman and Stuart Obbard who both live in Lenham for putting us forward and promoting our cause. We look forward to hearing about their fundraising and I look forward to seeing them at their Pass Out Parade in November.

Events The 80s Disco took place at The White Horse, Sandway and was very well supported. We will let you know how much was raised from this event next month. Thank you to Tony who is the landlord of The White Horse for allowing us to use his venue, and for helping us to make the event a success. Thank you also to Steve Campbell who offered to do the disco for us. Without both these guys

helping out the event wouldn’t have been a success. We hope all of you who came along enjoyed yourselves.

Check out the photos on our website and facebook page.

The Hope Ball - Saturday 19th October Our annual Ball is nearly upon us and this year we want to make it as successful as the last. We raised £10,000 last year and this made the dream of a new playroom possible for William Harvey Hospital’s children’s ward. This year we have the opportunity to raise money for an app for paediatric intensive care patients, and possibly towards a pain distraction unit. This will again mean raising nearly £10,000. You can be involved in making this happen in many ways: book a ticket for £42.50 a head and come along and enjoy the event (even get a table of 8 or 10); donate us a raffle prize, last year this raised £1500; donate an auction prize, last year this raised £3500. Or you can make a donation to help raise the money to www.justgiving.com/thehopeball2013.

Thank you in advance. If you require further information about the ball please go to www.thehopeball.co.uk.

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Facebook http://goo.gl/nkbgr Twitter @emiliaslitheart Donate http://goo.gl/BCMtY www.emiliaslittleheart.org.uk

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Dates for Your Diary

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OCT

Messy Church Ulcombe Village Hall

Royal British Legions Women’s Section Meeting

OCT

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The Constitutional Monarchy Association Kent Group Meeting The Dog and Bear 1:30pm

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Flu Clinic Lenham Surgery 8:30am - 11:30am

OCT

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Royal British Legion Annual Meeting Lenham Social Club 8:00pm

OCT

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Winterwarm Information Event Lenham Community Centre 2:00pm

Verdi Requiem Concert Canterbury Cathedral 7:30pm Dates for Your Diary

Reserved tickets sold out as soon as they went on sale, but there are unreserved seats available at £10 on 07761 150916 or www.thanetfestivalchoir.org. uk

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OCT

OCT

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Sutton Valence Choral Society and Thanet Festival Choir together with the Beresford Festival Orchestra and four outstanding soloists are combining to perform Verdi’s Requiem on Saturday 12 October.

It starts at 7.30pm in Canterbury Cathedral. This marks the 200th anniversary of Verdi’s birth. His Requiem is a work full of anger, pathos and forgiveness and is one of the greatest choral works ever composed. This is for many a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform in the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Community.

Flu Clinic Harrietsham Surgery 2:00pm - 5:00pm

COME & JOIN US !

We are holding an Introductory Planting Session on Saturday 19th October Why not come along and join in? Feel the Community Spirit Meet at 9.00am outside the Red Lion Please bring gloves & trowels.

Lenham Enhancement Association Planting Session Outside Red Lion 9:00am

NOV

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

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NOV

OCT

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

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

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

Friday, November 8th at 7.30pm Harrietsham village hall

Paul Wallace, Secretary

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NOV

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

A date for our diary: 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.

OCT

Mixed Doubles An Evening of two events: A play about a quiz & A Music quiz.

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Lenham Family Festival Showcase Event Lenham Community Centre 6:00pm Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Lenham Village Store Newsletter Hello everyone, where is this year going?? It is now October and Christmas draws ever closer, but first we have Halloween on October 31st, and then Guy Fawkes on 5th of next month.

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We have some pumpkins in store that are ready to be turned into Halloween Lanterns. It would be great to see what designs you come up with!

Please bring in some pictures of your pumpkin Lanterns or send a picture to the Little Country Gardens Facebook page (The little Country Garden) and we will pick our favourite, the winner will receive a little gift (T&C’s apply) Also a big thank you to Jo who mentioned a few things we should mention in our newsletter, it’s always good to get an outside view. We would like to mention lots of new or fairly new and even things we stock that people may not be aware of. Firstly thinking Local, we stock a lovely range of local Ice-cream from Simply Icecream in Ashford (which is delicious, especially Honeycomb), we have introduced a local ale selection which is a little hidden just behind our beer fridge, we have lots of cooking and baking products that many people don’t know we have and some items being somewhat hard to come by. We also have some Lovely local Honey that has been flying out, produced by our very own Vicar Dick Venn from the vicarage garden.

Lenham Village Store Newsletter

We also have some seasonal fudge flavours in so please do go to the Little Country Garden and ask Jemma, Elaine or Sarah for a little taster.

We are really pleased to hear that the Red Lion’s Harvest Auction went well again this year, a huge well done to Nicole, Matt and to all their team especially Jason (auctioneer extraordinaire) that work so hard to put this amazing event together each year. We were very pleased to hear that a box of Fudge that we donated went for £220.00! We hope that the winning bidder very much enjoyed their box of fudge!

Have a good month everyone!

The Hope Ball 2013

Saturday 19th October - 7pm at the Mecure Hotel, Maidstone

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Charity Ball including***Drinks reception *** Three course set meal with half a bottle of wine*** guest speaker***raffle and auction*** live music from local band 'Paris' For further information and to purchase/reserve tickets visit www.thehopeball.co.uk or contact Claire Webb on 07727274288/emiliaslittleheart@gmail.com

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Lenham Cricket Club Saturday 10th August saw the League side entertain Marden. Lenham went into the game knowing that if they could win their last handful of league fixtures the league title would be theirs come the end of the month.

Marden won the toss and elected to bat first. They scored 153 runs from their 45 overs. Jack Ambrose continued his good run of form with the ball picking up 4 wickets, Alan Barr took 3 wickets. Lenham reached their target without losing a wicket. Alan Barr 66 not out and Pete Humphries 63 not out.

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The following day the Sunday side played host to Otham. The visitors batted first and scored 212 in a 40 over game. Mike Potter took 3 wickets and Dave Gardner 2. Lenham fell significantly short of their target dismissed for 135. The only resistance in the Lenham batting came in the form of Tom Curtis, 43 and Dave Seales 41.

Next up for the league side were West Farleigh away. Lenham won the toss and decided to bowl first. Lenham bowled out West Farleigh for 122. Tom Curtis and Dave Bunch each took 3 wickets. In the run chase Lenham lost 4 wickets, and cruised home inside 27 overs. Once again, Alan Barr 56 and Pete Humphries 37 were the pick of the Lenham batsman.

The Sunday side travelled to Bobbing

Lenham Cricket Club

Court to play Newington for the third time in the season. Newington batted first and scored 184. Tom Curtis was the star with the ball taking 6 for 32!

In what seemed a decent total posted by the hosts Lenham knocked off the runs with 9 overs to spare.

Tom Curtis backed up his impressive performance with the ball scoring 97 not out with the bat! Well supported by Dan Russell who scored 56 not out.

The following weekend the Saturday side were scheduled to play a friendly fixture against Great Chart, however the fixture was cancelled due to a lack of players. Heavy rain on the day would have made the chance of any cricket unlikely anyway.

The Sunday side were due to play host to Crusaders but they cancelled at short notice and Lenham were unable to find an emergency fixture in time.

The Saturday side travelled to Sheldwich knowing that if they secured victory they would win the league. Sheldwich lost the toss and were put into bat. They scored 184 off their 45 overs, this could have been less but for some poor fielding and some way ward bowling. Lenham got off to a flying start with Alan Barr and Alex Gray hitting the ball to all parts of the ground. They reached what could have been a tricky target with 20 overs to spare. Alan Barr carried his bat ending the game on 82, Alex Gray 32 and Tom Curtis 29 the other batsman of note.

The victory means that Lenham win the division two title (hooray!!) with one league fixture against Staplehurst remaining, the report on this fixture will be in next month’s update.

The last game to report on in this month’s update saw the Sunday side play host to Detling. Unfortunately the good form of the Saturday side could not be replicated by the Sunday side and they suffered one of their heaviest defeats for some time. Lenham bowled first and dismissed the opposition for 171. Dave Seaman took 4 wickets, Tom Curtis and Jack Gracie 2 each.

In response Lenham were bowled out for 40! John Humphrey (15 runs), the only Lenham batsman to make it into double figures.

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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 this glorious sunshine!

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REMIX FRIDAY FILM CLUB, HARRIETSHAM VILLAGE HALL FRIDAY 18TH OCTOBER 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 Impossible cert 12A. The story of a tourist family in Thailand caught in the destruction and chaotic aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

Starring Ewan McGregor and Naomi Watts Contact Marjorie on 850657 if you require transport

5.30pm Bee Movie cert U. Barry B. Benson, a bee who has just graduated from college, is disillusioned at his lone career choice: making honey. On a special trip outside the hive, Barry's life is saved by Vanessa, a florist in New York City. As their relationship blossoms, he discovers humans actually eat honey, and subsequently decides to sue us.

Admission ÂŁ2 for members.

Parental consent forms must be completed

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7.50pm for refreshments, prompt 8pm start Secret Life of Bees Cert 12A. Set in South Carolina in 1964, this is the tale of Lily Owens a 14 year-old girl who is haunted by the memory of her late mother. To escape her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father, Lily flees with Rosaleen, her caregiver and only friend, to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother's past. Taken in by the intelligent and independent Boatwright sisters, Lily finds solace in their mesmerizing world of beekeeping. 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 Lenham Cricket Club Advertisers

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

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1914-1918 Anniversary The Great War

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Following the successful information day on the 29th July at the Community Centre we received lots of information on the men from the Parish of Lenham who served in the armed forces during World War One. Have you any information that would help us in putting together a commemorative book on the contribution these men made to the life in Lenham over the last 100 years.

218 men returned and raised their families and made a contribution in building the community that we now all enjoy.

We are looking for information on their families, their employment, and their interests, if you have any letters or photographs which you would be happy for us to use please get in touch.

Some of the families we are eager to hear from are from the descendants of: Charles Bryant Royal Navy who served on HMS Formidable, Charles Barton & his son Frank also his stepson Wallace Hillier from Eastling, William Beal & his son William Jnr and this foster son Albert Colville possibly from Sheerness.

Any Information on Christiana Town, and her sons George & Arthur also Fredrick, Earnest & Alfred Bolton who lived in Platts Heath.

1914-1918 Anniversary The Great War

Other families whose have information on their fathers or grandfathers of Charles Russell, Wiliam Russell and Fred Russell, Edmund Coppins Thomas Coppins ,George Edward Coppins and George Coppins.

The Filmer families who sons and fathers went to war and came home were Earnest Filmer, John Filmer, Bertie Filmer and Albert Filmer.

Amos Chapman, Fred Chapman this family may have lived in Lenham Heath.

There were 17 members of the Clark Families and any information which show the contribution they made to the parish would be welcome Also 15 men with the name of Smith all from the Parish of Lenham.

During our investigations the names of some men have been uncovered who do not appear on our list or on the Lenham Memorial it would be helpful for any information on Robert Allan, Bernard Lampard, Archie Bates, S Maxwell Coleman and William Martin, these men were all Killed in Action, also Gordon Mason Apps DFC who died in 1931who was born in Lenham in 1899.

A full list of the 260 men who went to war is available at the Community Centre Or contact Nick Osborne 07900585733 or Amy Meyers 01622 859915.

Advice for a safer Autumn

With the arrival of autumn, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is urging residents to take extra care to keep themselves safe, both at home, outdoors and while travelling on the roads.

At home As cooler evenings set in and people start lighting open fires and woodburning stoves to keep warm, chimney fires can pose a serious risk to your home. Fire crews recommend that chimneys are swept regularly to clear the build-up of soot and also inspected to ensure they are fit for use.

It is vital that homes are fitted with working smoke alarms that are tested regularly to ensure early warning in the unfortunate event of a fire and that your household and any guests are aware of the safest and quickest escape routes. Remember - in the event of a fire, do not try to tackle it yourself – get out, stay out and dial 999.

Looking out for others It is also the time of year to look out for elderly relatives, neighbours and friends. Older people, especially those with medical or mobility issues are most at risk of being injured in a fire.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service has a dedicated team that provides specialist advice and equipment in the homes of vulnerable residents.

Bonfires It is tempting to have a bonfire at this time of year to burn off garden waste, but they can easily burn out of control, cause pollution and become a nuisance to neighbours. Composting is a much safer, greener solution for getting rid of garden waste. However if you do have a bonfire the advice is to take extra care and never use petrol or other accelerants on it. Ensure any fires are built well away from any buildings, sheds or fences and never leave a fire unattended.

Roads With the darker evenings setting in fire crews are also urging motorists to take extra care on the roads. With more leaves and debris on the roads, coupled with poorer visibility, the advice is to check your tyres, ensure your lights are working properly and to keep your windscreen clean. Also, always take into consideration the road conditions, check your speed and ensure you keep a safe distance from other road users.

For further free safety advice call KFRS on 0800 9237000 or visit www. kent.fire-uk.org.

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

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 Beauty Parlours an therapist Builders/decorators

Butchers/Meat Carpentry Carpets/Flooring Caterers Catteries

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

Cosmetic Clinic Dance Dressmaking/alterations Elctricians/Gas fitters

Estate Agents Fitness

Contact Numbers

Stonebridge Associates 851542 RB Air 07751466536 Cybereye Security 858612 Mobile beauty therapist 07738505575 Alpha 762164 Andy and Paul 850437 Apollo 07808414965 Elwood (Painter/decorators) 01634308933 KRS Building/decorating 851126 KSE Home Improvements 851400 Lenham Decorating Services 858565 SR Interiors (painters/decorators) 737225 Stuttle Dyer (painters/decorators) 859675 G B Lister 858220 Snoad Farm 01795890700 Carpentry and General Building 850364 P Humpries 858719 Carpets direct 01233714999 Beaubray Caterers 763269 Little Dene Boarding Cattery 858510 Inkstand cattery 859469 James Collett 850608 Debbie Brett 01233714247 Invicta Chimney Sweep 08003289877 Afeneh Smith (mobile service) 853640 Heathers Chiropody Surgery 850376 Amy McLaughlin 07813030527 Phynix Domestic cleaning 880028 House proud valet 07975513315 The Little Attic 07530183895 A.C. Computers 850462 Harrietsham Computers 859442 Lynn 745654 MS Computer services 859969 The LenValley Cosmetic Clinic 852805 Lenham Ballet School 850329 Pam Hills 858827 AD Pink Electrics 884774 Barrie Weston Contractor 01233712663 Electrical Solutions 858794 Invicta Power Services and Gas Fitters 850930 MGI Electrical 850055 Rockland Electrical 07902017349 Philip Jarvis 858241 Activate Body and Soul 853750

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

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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Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings

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Lenham Archaeological Society Here is a drawing taken from the1841 tithe map showing the older part of Lenham beyond the railway station.

Long Slip is in the centre of the map and down its right hand side (north side) is a road that has been lost ….it is now just a footpath.

It would appear that Leading Cross actually had a Green, Green Meadow lies on the east side of the Headcorn Road.

Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings

Following on from last month’s article, you can see the position of Chapel field so it’s any ones guess where the actual chapel or church stood. It could be in the field itself or in the Shaw but that’s a trifle wet as a tributary of the Len flows through it.

I am surprised no one has used the name “Kissing Trees“ for their house as you can see several fields bear that name!

Does anyone know when the name “Inkstand“ was first used ? Perhaps

someone did not like the name of Kissing Trees so changed it! I am pretty sure that the name derives from the fact that much iron slag was found in those fields and although one archaeologist has been arguing with me and says that is not a valid reason …take a look at this piece of slag …I certainly think it looks like dried ink .

Just like that blue –black messy stuff we used to use all those years ago at school!

Lesley Feakes 01622 850275 606@ feakes.com Lenham Gardening Society What a busy month first a very enjoyable outing to Scotney Castle, the weather was very kind to us, in fact we have been lucky for all our outings, Scotney is a mix of a 20th century home, much of which is still as it was 50 or so years ago, a part ruin of a castle with its own moat and some wonderful gardens.

Next our speaker for the month came from Brogdale and told us all about the work undertaken there to maintain the national fruit collection. most of us were amazed at the numbers, 2200 varieties of apple, 285 varieties of cherries, 337 varieties of plums and so on. I would be hard pressed to name

more then 20 varieties of apple. It was a very interesting talk and gave us a great insight into the work they do.

Finally the Lenham Garden Show and what a day it was. We had over 150 entries of flowers, vegetables, fruit, great flower arrangements and Jams & Chutneys, which made a great display for the 120+ visitors who came to look at the results in the afternoon. Like us they were amazed at how well the show turned out, bearing in mind its over ten years since the last one.

Class winners received a certificate and best in show cups were presented to Ken Hallam for best display of flowers Brenda Perks for best vegetables Lesley Feakes for best Flower Arrangement and the overall winner (based on the number of firsts) was Brenda Perks.

Congratulations to you and all the prize winners.

As you can imagine a show like this does not just happen. A lot of hard work goes into preparation, organising and making it a success on the day.

The list includes the Judges, Show Secretary, Stewards who looked after the exhibitors, the Tea team who were very busy all day, those who helped in setting up and clearing up and of course not forgetting the hard working committee, so a big vote of thanks goes to you all.

Thanks also goes to some of the local businesses who gave us support in various ways.

However, without you the exhibitors and visitors we would not have had a show, so many thanks for your support and helping to make it such a great day.

So was it worth it? We think so but it would be nice to hear from exhibitors and visitors as to what they thought of it, we have already been asked if we intend to hold one next year.

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Cont..

Oh. I almost forgot who won the heaviest marrow competition! well we had some great entries but it was Jo & Brian Llong who won with a monster which weighed in at 13.5 LBS almost double that of the second placed.

There was a stewards enquiry but no trace of doctoring was found, so well done Jo & Brian.

Keith Varney P.S. We are looking for the holder of Lucky Programme no 20 from the recent Garden Show. Please contact me at 850228 Lenham W.I. 42

Cont..

Our October speaker is Mrs. Frances Penberthy who will be telling us how to ‘Live and Eat Well’. I hope this will prove to be an interesting evening.

In November we have a return visit from Barbara Stevens. If any ladies would like to come and visit, try out a W.I. meeting, I would particularly recommend coming along to hear this speaker, she is extremely entertaining, and will be talking about her experiences in Public Speaking.

Some of our members went on a Federation outing to Hampton Court on September 5th, it included a Boat Trip up the Thames from Chertsey Lock to Hampton Court, a chance to see the homes of the lucky people who live on the riverbank. It was a boiling hot day, so quite a relief to wander around inside the beautiful and historic palace.

Three more people attended a day of dance at Hollingbourne on Friday, so it shows how much variety the W.I. has to offer.

Gill Simes THE CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY ASSOCIATION KENT GROUP Whose aim is to support our monarchy, will be holding a meeting at the Dog and Bear, Lenham, on Saturday 5th October at 1.30 p.m.at which Anne Carter will talk about ‘Ceremonial London’. The cost is £7.50, which includes tea or coffee and biscuits.

For further information, contact Mrs. Wendy Henderson on 01732 451769 or look on our website www.cmakent.org.uk Lenham Social Club - a past, a present a Future?

Statistically in the UK 2 pubs close every day of the week (source www. closepubs.co.uk) It’s a sad fact that given our finances we find ourselves as a potential victim to this grave statistic but hey at least we have potentially 7 years to change this - question is do you care? I hope you do.

I hold my hands up to being one of those that previously used the club without paying my membership, there was no reason behind this just didn’t get round to it and didn’t think it such a big deal. But eventually my

We aim to provide a range of entertainment nights including live bands and tribute acts and provide free hall hire to our members.

If you want to be part of the present and future and don’t want this part of the community to become just a part of history please support us.

Tel: 01622 858890 E-Mail: lenhamsocialclub@btconnect.com Royal British Legion Women’s Section

conscience got the better of me and I paid up - a whole £10.00!!!!

What sets us apart is we are a members club and whilst there is the committee - which is elected by the members, who endeavour to make the right decisions without our members there is no Social Club.

We no longer have the archaic feel, having just had an extensive facelift, gone are the bars on the windows and frosted glass replaced with 24 hour CCTV and shatterproof glass, in fact we now have not just a Facebook Page but our own Website- how’s that for evolution!

There are monthly and weekly competitions including darts plus we have a full size snooker table and we also run a Lenham Social Club 4 number lotto, seasonal raffles and new for 2013 a new Reveal and win instant game, playstation 1’s available to play upon request, and don’t forget our jukebox which is updated every 2 weeks.

The annual general meeting of the branch will be held in the Community Centre on 24th October at 2:30pm.

Do come along and support the committee and if you would like to join in any capacity you would be very welcome.

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Š Peter Bailey This photo was supplied by Peter Bailey.

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'FLU CLINICS Lenham Surgery SAT 5th October 8:308:30-11:30 AM Harrietsham Surgery Wednesday 16th October 2-5 pm Shingles immunisation will be available for patients aged 70 OR 79 between 2 Sept 2013 and 1 Sept 2014

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Climate Change is happening Pat Crawford provides the HADLOW COLLEGE COMMENT AND ADVICE COLUMN In August this year the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra) published statistics relating to diversification and renewable energy production undertaken on farms in 2010.

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The statistics revealed that approximately 25 thousand farms were involved in some form of diversification. This included tourism (and related enterprises, sport and leisure facilities), forestry, equestrian activities, food processing, aquaculture and renewable energy.

In the south-east, 27% of farms (numbering 3,630 in total) were estimated to be carrying out some form of diversification. The size of the farms involved in diversification is interesting: small/medium farms topped the list with 30%. Just 20% of small farms were operating diversification schemes and 27% of large and very large farms.

The number of farms involved in renewable energy of one form or another is enlightening. The South West region topped the chart with a 6.9% involvement. London and the South East were next with 5.9%.

The North East recorded the lowest percentage with 4.7%. Interestingly, the smallest farms recorded the highest percentage of involvement.

The statistics relating to the source of renewable energy was as follows:

Climate change is happening

Wind - 537 farms.

Biomass to produce biogas - 2,247 farms Other forms of biomass - 2,343 farms Solar -1,706 Hydro-energy - 50 Other renewable energy - eg tidal 883 The most popular form of renewable energy - biomass - broke down to anaerobic digestion (slurries, food and plant waste, et cetera) and biodiesel (willow, wood wastes, crops, et cetera).

The figures in themselves are fascinating - but they do lead to several very important questions which - certainly at the present time - are unanswerable. Firstly: how much of the land being used to produce renewable energy could be used to produce food? Secondly: what percentage of England’s (the Defra report is restricted) energy needs are being produced on farms? Thirdly: is there opportunity for expansion?

Lastly: if renewable energy production is expanded, will it impact on our ability to increase food security?

One can only imagine that these questions are being debated by politicians and their advisors all round the world. This surely puts the challenges we face into sharp focus?

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COMPUTING One to One Computer and iPad Training in FOR your own home BEGINNERS

CHARITY CHRISTMAS GIFT and CARD FAIR Saturday 26th October 10.00 am – 3.00 pm Smarden Charter Hall (TN27 8NF)

Internet ~ Email ~ Digital Photography and more..

Also Computer and iPad Setup Call Lynn for more details

01622 745654

www.computingforbeginners.co.uk

A wide range of Gifts, including Stocking Fillers and Christmas cards, will be on sale from the 18 or so charities attending. These range from large national charities to smaller Kent-based charities and usually include Multiple Sclerosis, Pilgrim’s Hospice, Kent Air Ambulance, Tear Fund, British Heart Foundation, Labrador Rescue, Cystic Fibrosis, R.N.L.I., Oxfam, Marie Curie Cancer Care, Mencap, Samaritans, Save the Children, Cancer Research UK, and Guide Dogs for the Blind.

The Smarden W.I. will once again serve a wonderful selection of tasty soups at lunchtime - plus coffee, tea and cakes throughout the day. We also hold a fantastic Raffle with some very good prizes to cover our expenses, including the advertising.

The event raised over £4,500 last year and the charities get to keep every penny they raise on the day.

The stalls are run by people from local villages and the Ashford, Maidstone and Weald area. They love coming to Smarden and will provide a warm welcome.

So please make a date in your diary, tell your friends and drop in to start your Christmas shopping in Smarden! Come along and support Yvonne and Peter as they raise funds for the Maidstone Branch of the MS Society

Chance to meet your Neighbourhood Policing Team points/police_contact_points.html For more information, visit: www. kent-pcc.gov.uk Twitter: @AnnBarnesKPCC Commissioner Launches Neighbourhood Watch Survey

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A new initiative to boost visible community policing has been launched

by Ann Barnes, Kent Police and Crime Commissioner. During her election campaign, it was one of Mrs Barnes’ main manifesto promises to introduce a fleet of ‘mobile police stations’ – and this pledge has now come to fruition with the introduction of Police Contact Points.

These are mobile police vans manned

by Police Community Support Officers, which travel around mostly-rural parts of the county where it was felt that police presence needed a boost.

The Police Contact Points allow members of the public to report crime or anti-social behaviour, discuss policing issues or concerns, and meet members of their neighbourhood policing team.

Each of the Police Contact Points will make their visits on a two-weekly basis, spending 90 minutes in each location. You can find out when a mobile police station will be at your local area by visiting http://www.kent. police.uk/contact_us/police_contact_

Chance to meet your Neighbourhood Policing Team

Following a pledge to help improve Neighbourhood Watch across the county, Kent Police and Crime Commissioner, Ann Barnes, has launched a survey to canvas public opinion about the scheme.

Neighbourhood Watch is one of the biggest and most successful voluntary crime-prevention movements, based on the idea of an active community working together and in partnership with the Police to help reduce crime and make their community safe.

The Kent Police and Crime Commissioner is very keen to increase Neighbourhood Watch awareness across Kent and the survey is your chance to give your views about how this can be best achieved.

To take part in the survey, visit http://www.kent-pcc.gov.uk/ annbarneskpccpoll.html

Swadelands Sixth Form has been celebrating a successful A Level results day Swadelands Sixth Form has been celebrating a successful A Level results day. Year 13 students achieved the best results in the school’s history with 61% of students achieving at least one A grade and over half of them achieving 2 A grades. It has been a successful year for the school with many of the students going on to claim University places across the country. Arran McGlynn, who achieved 5 A Levels, is going to Canterbury to study Computer Science whilst Lydia Hilden’s 3 A Levels have helped her gain a place studying criminology. The school has a rich sports heritage and this is reflected in other university entrants such as Giorgio Russo who will be studying Strength and Conditioning at St Mary’s.

Headteacher, Richard Baddeley, said: “The students have worked very hard over what is a very challenging two years. The A level results this year are the strongest we have had and this demonstrates a high level of commitment from our students who have been encouraged and helped so well by the teaching and support staff at Swadelands”.

Thank You I would like to say a big thank you to all the kind and caring people who sent me lovely cards and messages of sympathy, when Clarence passed away, they have helped me to cope at this difficult time.

Also thanks to my lovely carers who check no me twice a day now I am on my own. What would I do without them.

Berta Rose 49

James Coare Director of Sixth Form

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Swadelands GCSE The following Students achieved 4 A* grades Harry Cowup, Alfie Costigan, Lee Dehara, Arnold Obadai, Hannah Qizilbash, Daniel Sanderson, Jack Tomlin, Emily Wells, Grishma Gurung.

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Swadelands School Headteacher Richard Baddeley was very pleased with the GCSE results this year. “There have been many individual successes and the consistency of our student’s performance was really strong. This year 90% achieved 5 A*-C and three quarters of our students achieved 8 or more A*-C grades. 50% achieved 8 or more GCSES including E&M. It was very pleasing to see our students achieve, there have been many years of hard work behind their success. I would like to thank the teaching and support staff for their commitment and dedication”.

A particular mention needs to go to the following students ; Megan Cole who achieved 8 A* , Mitchell Wells 6 A*, Tom Stephenson 6 A* and Joe Pearce 4 A* and 2 A grades. Nathan James achieved 1 A* and A grades in GCSE English language and Literature , Maths and Citizenship.

Swadelands GCSE

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Safety & Security

Approach a road accident with care.

Park your vehicle safely, putting your hazard lights on. Observe the situation carefully or you could become a casualty, perhaps more serious than the person you are going to help. Approach the incident with care looking for any moving traffic, oil, glass, petrol fumes, hazard signs on a vehicle carrying chemicals etc.

Switch the vehicle ignition off, leave people in the vehicles unless there is a risk of fire, fumes, drowning etc.

Removing people unnecessarily may cause more injuries and discomfort.

The emergency services will have the

equipment for removing people from the crashed vehicles. If it is safe for you, support the head gently to assist with breathing, handle very gentle as necessary movement mat aggravate serious neck injuries. Don’t forget to call the emergency services giving as much detail as possible, location, hazards, number of casualties etc.

N.T.Colbran SJAB

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Missed Appointments

Whilst I was sitting in the “Len Valley Practice” waiting room waiting for my appointment to have my annual hair transplant I could not fail to notice what was written on the electronic enunciator panel.

It read that 156 people did not turn up for their requested appointments in July.

Obviously some of the people that could not be attend or be bothered to pick up the telephone to cancel the appointment had a very good reason not to do so, but 156 does seem a lot of people, 2 double Decker bus loads.

I think to ease their conscience they should pay £5.00 into a pool for local charity, that’s £9360 per year.

Your thoughts people of Lenham, in the Focus.

RVC

Let there be light!

Nick Osborne led a trusty band of volunteers (with Margo supervising!) to install new hall ceiling lights. A tower was erected, a bit like playing with huge Lego pieces and work began. Regular user groups should see the difference the upgraded units have made as the hall is now much brighter. The lights are energy efficient and will cost less to run.

All part of the ongoing works to improve the facilities offered at the

Community Centre, which believe it or not will celebrate its tenth anniversary next year.

Margo McFarlane

Lenham Family Festival Showcase Event On Saturday November 23rd 6pm at Lenham Community Centre the organising group have arranged an event to raise funds for next year’s festival.

The event will showcase the acts which hope to appear at the festival in June 2014. All those that take part will perform free of charge and will play to their friends and families in the hall. We will be advertising the event in greater detail in Novembers Focus and for those who would like to potentially participate please contact Tom or Janetta on 01622 859412 or email sams_uplands@yahoo.co.uk Some refreshments will be provided and tickets will cost £5.

For more details about helping the festival contact Margo 859682.

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Thoughts & Reports Christian Message October 2013 The Freighter

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On the wettest day in August I watched as several residents of Grafty Green struggled through the rain to deposit junk in what is known as THE FREIGHTER. There were items of all sorts: broken furniture, equipment no longer usable, building materials surplus to requirements.

I discovered THE FREIGHTER (aka Bulky Refuse Collection) when I moved to Grafty. An inspired idea, I thought.

Six years later it is still operational and I am still impressed. Maidstone Borough Council issues a timetable so that residents know when and where rubbish may be deposited.

It’s a relief to be able to dispose of things which you no longer require and are a hindrance.

As a child in primary school I heard sections of John Bunyan’s ‘Pilgrim’s Progress’ read aloud. It is the story of a man named Christian. I was puzzled by the burden on the man’s back. I pictured a heavy, uncomfortable load.

I was right. It was. It was a sack of sins which made life difficult for him and hindered his progress. Happily he did get rid of his burden. How? He walked to the top of a hill and came to a cross. There the burden rolled down from his back and fell into an open grave. He saw it no more.

In the popular mind Christians are those who go to church, do good deeds, raise money for causes and pray.

Thoughts & Reports

Well, yes, they do. They are also those who have discovered what to do with the junk in their lives. Not old kettles and leaky saucepans but the heavy load of memories which persist. Memories of quarrels never healed, of lies told, of failure to forgive, dishonesty and unkindness. These are the burdens all human beings, except the one perfect man, carry.

I see Jesus as THE FREIGHTER who invites us to dump all this baggage at his feet, at the foot of the Cross, and allow him to deal with it. Just as MBC’s men take our junk away so Jesus removes the rubbish of our lives and deals with it.

And it’s not just a one off service. We can go to Jesus again and again and he will scoop up whatever hinders us and take it away. He will forgive and forget.

Bunyan wrote, ‘Now Christian’s heart was light. He had found relief from his burden.’

Jesus said, Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28.

Joan Drury Flowers and Brass Cleaning in St Marys Church Flowers 5th October Mrs Jones 12th October – Harvest Festival Mrs Nahab 19th October Mrs Nahab 26th October Mrs Porter and Mrs Barr

October Brass cleaning Miss Greenwood Sue Greenwood HOST Could you offer someone a home far from home for just a day or two?

HOST, a well-established charity, is hoping to hear from people who enjoy making others feel at home, and who would love to meet interesting young adults from other parts of the world who are currently studying at universities in the UK, and who want to understand this country better.

One host wrote: ‘It is great to welcome these students and make them feel wanted. They get to see a good side of life in Britain in contrast to what they might learn from the media. It is also fun getting to know someone from another country.’

Invitations can be for a day, a weekend, or 3 days at Christmas. Sharing Christmas with someone who has little idea what Christmas is can be really special – and for the guest, much better than being on a deserted university campus. Invitations are urgently needed from volunteer hosts, no matter how far they live from a university. To find out more, please see www.hostuk.org or contact local organiser Gill Albury 01233 640124 kenthost@outlook.com.

Dick Venn we will be considering: “Forever and ever. Amen” There will be an informal communion during the service.

The service will be at St John’s Church, Harrietsham, on Sunday 27th October, at 6.30pm.

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

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!

If you would be interested in joining the planning group and contributing to the worship at future services, then 61 please do let me know.

Peter Saunders

Informal Service October Informal service Come along to our October informal service where we will be studying the final line of the Lord’s Prayer.

This month with the help of the Rvd

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Messy Church

Little Things

Messy Church is back for the autumn term

As always, upon waking, we look at our garden! We have a ‘Heath Robinson” tray for the birds – a large upturned flower pot with a clay circular tray atop containing water! We saw, if you can try to imagine it, 15 nestling blue tits huddled together in the tray quite happily, so…………………………..

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:

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12th Oct Ulcombe Village Hall 16th Nov Harrietsham School 14th Dec Lenham church

Hope to see you soon!

What is this life if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare.

No time to stand beneath the boughs And stare as long as sheep or cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass, Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight, Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty’s glance, And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care, We have no time to stand and stare.

William Henry Davies Sheila x

Messy Church

Church Services in Len Valley Benefice Services in October 6th October – 19th Sunday after Trinity 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 13th October – 20th Sunday after Trinity 8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 09.30am Harrietsham Holy Communion (Stewardship Sunday) 11.00am Lenham Morning Worship 11.15am Ulcombe Holy Communion 6.30pm Boughton Choral Evensong 64

20th October – 21st Sunday after Trinity 8am Lenham BCP Holy Communion 9.30am Harrietsham Morning Worship 9.30am Boughton Holy Communion 11am Lenham Holy Communion 11.15am Ulcombe Morning Worship 27th October – Last Sunday after Trinity 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 We apologise for the error on last months crossword and we hope this one will make amends.

Please leave your completed crossword entry at LENHAM LIBRARY on or before the 20th of the month Answers to last months crossword on page 67

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Across clues

Down clues

1. Considerate but could be pointlessly frightening. (6) 4. Send and letter and get rid of it. (5,3) 10. Expert held by honourable man? Not an easy question. (2,7) 11. Ay, elf could be green! (5) 12. Teach about money in middle of week. (7) 13. One time impossible venture. (7) 14. Alphabetical eighth. That’s Greek! (5) 15. Elevated banker. (4,4) 18. Freak son changed and was abandoned. (8) 20. Command, request and deserve. (5) 23. Montgomery’s place. (7) 25. Expert has a record I make better. (7) 26. Irritation in stag group. (5) 27. Gypsum can make you potty! (9) 28. Look into same sex bunches. (8) 29. Red wine could be clear with time. (6)

1. Satisfies with what is in the package.

(8) 2. Knock you French about ecstasy. (7) 3. Places commonly referred to for those newly arrived to be seen. (9) 5. Twenty four hours to recall in November. (11,3) 6. Hats of roofs?! (5) 7. A speech on hunger. (7) 8. Very hot but could be up in the air when turning right to left. (6) 9. Spend the night with your nappy on!

(5,4,1,4) 16. Does he forget nothing. He thinks so!

(4.2.3) 17. Film show real courage. (4,4) 19. Fruit for King’s mistress. (7) 21. Thomas was one. (7) 22. Old place for a dog. (6) 24. Heading for a life of no great beginnings. (5) Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Success comes from working together.

If you want to do business with local people then you are on the right page!

Running a business? Looking for customers? Suppliers?

Information? Help!? Then the Lenham Valley Business Association is a great place to be! What would you say if you could meet all of these people in one place at one time?

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 more pictures from our networking groups since 2009! Four years of useful information, entertaining speakers and presenters, and professionally run meetings. 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!

Here’s the line up for the last two of 2013: • Tuesday 12 November, update from John Foster, Regeneration and Economic Development Manager for Maidstone Borough Council at The Oak in Charing, we’re back there now as it’s under new ownership.

• Tuesday 3 December, Combined networking meeting with South Maidstone Business Association at Chilston Park Hotel, Sandway, Lenham. Our speaker is Peter Homewood, Vice hairman of Kent County Council.

Remember the timings for the meetings - arrive 5.45pm for 6pm, meetings finish around 8pm.

Some members stay on for food/drinks.

01622 820 841 to talk to Alan Reading (right) LVBA Chairman and organiser or you can doitall@ lenhambusiness.co.uk if you prefer to email (it is a new email address).

We look forward to hearing from you.

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

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lenhamfocus.co.uk 67

Last months crossword solution Last months winner was Jan Reeves, of Lenham.

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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 care is taken in compiling the71 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.

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