Lenham Focus | September '14 by Falcon

SEPTEMBER 2014 VOLUME 16 ISSUE 9 Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Save time: Streamline IT systems & processes Save money: no expensive software licences Reduce costs: cheaper utility contracts Call James today on 07411 391 483 Visit our website: www.jigsawkloud.co.uk

ďťż Advertisers

running slowly? ? ve a virus?

03 rs

30xper

a Ye

Computer Problems? Troubleshooting & Repair

Installation, Setup & Networking

Upgrades & Maintenance

Need some advice? Get in touch! Fast & Friendly Service • No Call-Out Fee • Lenham Based £15 per ½ hour mark@mscompserv.com (min 1 hour)

Call Mark 01622 859969 07867 905522 Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Welcome... to the September edition of the Lenham Focus

I am pleased to say that the Focus Team is now developing well with everybody getting into their roles and I would like to thank everyone, especially Annie, for driving this forward. I am now confident that the Focus is in good hands. With that said we are saying goodbye to our longest-serving member Gez. He has been the cornerstone of our distribution network ever since I joined and for many years prior to that. We will all be sad to see him go and thank him for his long service. This also means we are on the lookout for a new distribution manager. This involves the coordination of all our distributors to ensure they get the right number of copies for their round. If you think you can spare a few hours a month to drop off the magazine, all 2000

Welcome

James Collett Focus Editor 01622 850608

editorialslf@gmail.com

copies, and keep the distributors list in order please get in contact. It’s no easy task but I am sure Gez will be on hand to help you find your feet. We have a couple of good events this month including the Annual Village Barn Dance in the Tithe Barn supporting St Mary’s Church. Even if you haven’t barn danced before I am sure it will be good fun. Join in on the 27th, I am sure some guidance will be given. See the Dates for Your Diary section for more details on this and other events. Also take a look at the article on the Local Plan. It’s clear there is the potential for huge change over the next 12 years, for or against make sure you get heard.

Lenham Focus Volume 16 Issue 9 | September 2014 Circulation 2000

SEP 14 Editorial: James Collett, Annie Drylie 07956629772 | editorialslf@gmail.com Advertising: Mark Dunbar, Chris Wood 07808863227 | advertslf@gmail.com Finance: Sue Marchant, Jenny Wood 01622 858511 | 07788163828 | lenhamfocusinvoices@gmail.com Distribution: Gez Clark 07784 447200 Proofing: Jayne Hewish, Katy Bennett Interviews: Jim Myers Social: Jemma Cockell, Liz Webb Printed by: Gemini Print

Copy Deadline: 5pm 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 Front cover available once a year per advertiser Print + Deliver Single Sided A5 Insert Double Sided A5 Insert

£13 £21 £38 £79 £58 £69 £88 £120

£250 £275

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

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

Writing: James Collett 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. 06

Design: Flowbox 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 thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re after, get in touch! thinkflowbox.co.uk

Contributors

Photography: Andy Flood Andy has been providing photography to the focus since the launch of the new design. Consistently he has provided amazing shots, especially the front covers. Check out his Flickr Photostream! http://www.flickr.com/photos/ 35132157@N04/

Your Focus Team While I have been away Annie has been hard at work putting together a crack squad of Lenham residents to help put the Focus together and make sure it is out on time and always interesting. We have had a number of meetings now and there are some exciting developments being discussed but our first job is to get the Focus

back on track. If you think you can help with the team please get in touch as the more help the better. I would like to thank all the volunteers for stepping forward and I look forward to working with them all to take the Focus into its next phase. James Collett

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

BALLROOM & LATIN CLASSES WEEKLY GROUP CLASSES £5/person

Monday 5.45 - 6.45 : Children’s Ballroom & Latin (8-16yrs) 7.30 - 8.15 : Adult’s Ballroom & Latin (Beginners)

GDC School of Dancing Lenham Dance Studios 8 Faversham Road Lenham Kent ME17 2PN

8.15 - 9.00 : Adult’s Ballroom & Latin (Intermediate) Wednesday 4.30 - 5.15 : Under 8’s Ballroom & Latin (4-8yrs)

PLUS

Tel: 01622 850 800 Mob: 07831 718 628

Wednesday Zumba Classes £5/person

8.15 - 9.00 : Zumba Fitness (12yrs+ only) Private lessons also available for individuals and couples, please contact the Studio for more information

NICK POSENER (DIRECTOR) – CONSULTANCY - SERVICES QUALITY, HEALTH & SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SUPPORT

30 years+ experience in ISO business management, health & safety and environmental management systems and training services Our consultancy services include: ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS18001 management system development & maintenance Development and maintenance of health & safety and environmental management systems Business management, health & safety and environmental training services Specialist in BREEAM, LEED & SKA sustainability management schemes UKATA accredited asbestos awareness trainer CRB checked VAT registered Free quotations given on all enquiries received All in daily consultancy fee Tel: 01622 851931 (Lenham Heath) Mobile: 07985 644429 (Office Enquires) E-mail: val@posenerhsandegroup.co.uk Website:www.posenerhsandegroup.co.uk

Advertisers

Security and 40% off Electrical Services design work l Alarm systems l CCTV l PAT testing l Fire alarms l Automated gates l Video/audio entry systems l Existing systems maintained & repaired l All electrical work undertaken l Domestic & Commercial installations

This could be your advert for ÂŁ21pm

V AM A

LL EY

LE N H

l Part P certified l Free quotes l Fully insured l 24 hr Call out

on this advert space.

MEMBER

s Assoc

Cybereye Security Marcus Shephard 01622 858 612 or 07821 776 334

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Advertisers

SAXON WARRIOR PHARMACY

Situated in the heart of LENHAM

SERVING ALL PATIENTS WITH NHS DISPENSING AND health advice Other nhs services and private medicines service Fast and efficient prescription reorder and delivery to all areas Call for more information 01622858287 www.saxonwarriorpharmacy.com

OPEN ALL DAY WEEKDAYS AND ON SATURDAY MORNINGS

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

The Bow Window

Colour and foil specialists A new look for spring and summer For New Clients or Clients who haven’t been in the last year 50% off Colour & Cutting Services Full Head foils- £95 now £47.50 Half Head Foils- £65 now £32.50 Senior Designer Stylist- £40now £20 Stylist- £20 now £10 The Square, Lenham . 01622 858787

The White Horse Sandway ~

a traditional public house

Tuesday Lunch & Evening. Wednesday to Saturday until 3 1 course for £7.50 / 2 courses for £10.50 3 courses for £13.50

Beer Festival 4th-6th July Live Music all week with Dougal playing on Sat night, Morris dancers, military vehicles and face painting. Hog roasts all over the weekend with local beers + cider. More info on our website, Facebook + Twitter

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

This could be your advert for £13pm

Advertisers

Forthcoming Events Treasure Hunt Walk

11am Sunday 24 August Plus: BBQ and 'fun & games' in the garden

Quiz Night

1st Tuesday Every Month New members always welcome, apply to club Members and Guests Only . All events start at 8pm.

At The Great British Kitchen, our aim is to cook the best traditional ingredients as simply as possible, letting the quality of the produce and the magnificent view across the Castleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s moat speak for themselves. The Great British Kitchen is open for bookings from 7pm. Free parking is available, please use the Broomfield Road entrance from the A20.

01622 767777 www.leeds-castle.com/restaurant Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Advertisers

SWEENEY TODD BARBER SHOP OAPS BOYS TO 16 MEN

£5 £6 £7

MON-FRI WEDNESDAY SATURDAY

9-6 CLOSED 8-3

2 nd SUNDAY

10-1

OF THE MONTH

TRADITIONAL & MODERN HAIRSTYLES THE CORNERHOUSE, LENHAM VILLAGE SQUARE 07734950329 NOW WITH 3 BARBERS 15

Computer Solutions - No Callout Charge Pick up the phone before you pick up the hammer.

Data Recovery 1-1 Tuition Internet / Email Setup PC / Laptop Repair Laptop Screen Replacement Wireless Printer + Network Setup Virus Removal Refurbished PC + Laptop Sales 7 Days a week 8am-9pm. No Callout Charge

01622 850462 | ac-computers.co.uk

AC COMPUTERS Pick up the phone before you pick up the hammer

EST 2003

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Dates for Your Diary

SEP

Dates for Your Diary

Friends of St Mary’s presents ‘The Annual Village Barn Dance’ dancing to Whistling Skirmish in Tithe Barn, Lenham. Dancing starts at 7.30pm Tickets £8 per person. Under 16 £4, bring your own drinks or nibbles. Buy tickets Len Valley Newsagent, St Mary’s Church coffee morning 10am every Saturday or contact Lyn Fuller on 851538.

SEP

Lenham Players AGM at Lenham Community Centre at 7.30pm to meet other Lenham Players over a glass of wine and a nibble of cheese, and find out about the events we plan for the year ahead. Please make contact with Jan Moll on 01622 850747 if you would like to join us at the AGM.

26-28

St Peter’s Church, Button Lane, Bearsted is holding a Flower Festival to celebrate the Church’s 30th anniversary. The Church will feature beautiful floral displays depicting the diversity of parish life through the years. For more information contact Father Geoffrey Pointer Tel: 01622 736100 Email: parishpriest@ catholic-bearsted.org.uk Website: www.catholicbearsted.org.uk

SEP

Heart of Kent Hospice ‘Pedal for Pounds’ Join the Heart of Kent Hospice on Sunday 7TH September for a 10KM family cycle ride through the private estate at East Malling Research. For further information or to book your place please contact fundraising@hokh. co.uk, visit our website www. hokh.org or phone us on 01622 790195.

Borough Council Corner Over the last month I have assisted residents to complete numerous forms relating to benefits and the council. For many they are daunting and people in stress can be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information many of the agencies require. I would like to promote CROP Citizens Rights for Older People which we have locally in Lenham who are excellent in their assistance. I have met with residents and highway officers regarding tree problems adjacent to the highways and hope they can be resolved favourably. I met Peter Crouch from St John Ambulance organisation and talked to concerned residents and allotment holders. I am working with the community to

endeavour to protect this vital community asset. I attended the Parish Council’s Neighbourhood Plan Event in the Community Centre and will work with them and residents to bring this forward. On the issue of the petition that I campaigned for regarding the 1500 potential homes for the area, this will be presented in September at the Full Council meeting. Finally can I say thank you to all those who worked on the launch of the book “Lenham and the great war” by Amy Myers. Unfortunately our family were unable to attend this event but having started to read it you will find it moving and full of personal stories.

Kind Regards Janetta Sams

White Arches, Lenham Heath Road (formerly the Old Methodist Chapel) This is a plea to readers of the Lenham Focus for any interesting or relevant information on the history of this building. We are particularly interested in how far back the old chapel dates and of any photographs showing the little chapel.

After decades of neglect, the building has recently undergone a full refurbishment program and is now on its final stages. Please contact Ann or Mark on 07949 130474. Thank you.

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings

LENHAM W.I. REPORT I apologise for the lack of a report last month however, since we have no meeting in August I can use this opportunity to keep you up to date with our activities. Our July speaker, Jan Parsons gave us a very informative talk on how to avoid being a victim of crime. Personally I never realised that leaving my handbag downstairs was not a sensible thing to do. If an opportunist burglar entered the house, he would be able to remove my credit cards etc. without running the risk of waking me up and being caught. It is simple examples like this, which I for one never thought about, which make things easier for the criminal. Since then, my handbag sleeps with me!! Several of our members attended a Federation event at Hollingbourne, where the topic was cooking for Gluten-free and Diabetic diets, very relevant in this day and age. Two more members were able to go to an Arts and Crafts Dabble Day in August. These are always great fun and you come home with something you have created!! A few of us repeated the Community Singing thing at Harrietsham in July (it seems to

Clubs, Societies, Organisations and Gatherings

be becoming a habit!!) We were also in evidence at the Lenham World War One book signing. The old description ‘Jam and Jerusalem’ for the W.I. should be amended to ‘Tea and Cake’ Our September talk is entitled ‘Magic of the Middle East’ and in October Sir Jeremy Elwes will be talking about ‘The Honours System’. I look forward to meeting any ladies who would like to come along and see what we are about!! We meet on the second Thursday of every month except August. Lenham Heritage The launch of the book “Lenham and the Great War” by Amy Myers on Sat 2nd August at the Community Centre was a huge success and many villagers enjoyed the day. We had a table with information about our new group “Lenham Heritage” and gained new members immediately, including Richard Maylam who is one of the living relations of James Hatch who founded the Hatch Charity. We also sold 8 of our LAS books, now available at the bargain price of £5 for all 3 volumes. Sales of

these will go towards the funds of LH. Richard Maylam is very interested in the old families of Lenham and has just had a query regarding William Wells who stole sheep from one of Maylam’s farms and was consequently transported to Tasmania in 1840. Does anyone have any connection to the Wells family? A descendant in Tasmania would be very pleased to know more. Richard also has many old photographs that have cars, carts and horses and looking through the pictorial book “Lenham & Boughton Malherbe” by Amy Myers and Jean Cockett I notice there are a whole lot more. Transport and vehicles in Lenham might be a very good subject for some interested person to collate and produce a booklet of a dozen pages or so. Some local farmers still actually own vintage vehicles. Even if your own family has not been in Lenham long there is still room for people to research families that have. Names I come across in field names and houses are Clark, Chambers, Crisp, Coast, Champion and Champneys… just with the “C’s” alone! Champion and Champneys could be of the same root and we know that some go back to 12th

Century in this area, to Robert de Champagne. Attwater is another worthy of research …you would be popular with many Americans if you researched that as we have so many queries. That family goes back to the 14th Century, I believe, and is connected to Royton Manor. The Civil War in the Lenham area is a complete blank with me, I have never come across any information ….but then I have not looked! Another blank page for someone to fill in, the only small finds we get plenty of are spent musket balls! There are information sheets and entry forms for Lenham Heritage now available in the Library. We still have not forgotten about archaeology! There are two sites for new housing that might easily throw up some interesting hidden items! We still have not finalised a new email address …will do so soon. Lesley Feakes 850275

RBL Women’s Section This month we meet on the 25th September when we will be joined by the Men’s Branch, usual venue, Community Centre at 2.30 p.m. Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

SPARKLES Domestic & Commercial Window Cleaning

Pure Hot Water Fed Pole Technology

Conservatory Cleaning - Fascia/Cladding Cleaning Solar Panels â&#x20AC;˘ Gutter Cleaning System

Tel: 07856 110682 Web: www.sparkles-kent.co.uk www.facebook.com/sparkleskent Advertisers

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Continued... We have only just been joined to a group again and we hope that you found the July meeting interesting with visitors from the other group members. The Boxley Hand Bell Ringers were excellent and hopefully the members who took the challenge of the bell ringing enjoyed the experience. Lenham Players

We are always looking for new members, whether on stage or behind the scenes, so whether you are interested in acting or in helping to build or paint a set/ find the right piece of furniture or prop/make a costume/sell programmes – or any of the many other things which go to make a successful production, please contact Secretary Jan Moll on 01622 850747 for more information. Better still, come along to our AGM at Lenham Community Centre on Thursday 18th September at 7.30pm to meet other Lenham Players over a glass of wine and a nibble of cheese, and find out about the events we plan for the year ahead. Please make contact with Jan Moll on 01622 850747 if you would like to join us at the AGM.

Continued...

Don’t miss our next production on 7th and 8th November – Quartet, with a strong cast and directed by David Abson. Len Valley Hub Club Hi everyone, hope you are managing in this heat. Make sure you have sunscreen, hat, shade and drinking water. Our next meeting is September 4th 2.00-4.00pm at the Social Club. We will be having chairbased exercises. We look forward to seeing you all. Martin, Tom, John, Jenny and Nina YOUNG AT HEART 60+ We have been so lucky with the warm weather although I know it’s not to everyone’s liking. We all have to make sure of sunscreen, hats, shade and plenty of water to drink. Our next meeting is on Thursday 18th September 2.00-4.00pm at the Community Centre. We have Jerry playing music for us - a real treat. If anyone needs a lift please phone Jenny on 01622859208. Tom, Martin, Olive, Sue, Jackie, Jenny and Nina

Be Aware I have recently been told about a bogus caller in Lenham. The man called at an elderly resident’s home stating he was from Maidstone Hospital. He was calling to discuss equipment to ‘make life a little easier’ for the resident. He also said that he had ‘telephoned a few days ago’ and had ‘just visited her friend over the road.’ None of these things were true. Maidstone hospital state that the circumstances described would indicate that the caller was not genuine. In view of that I would like to take this opportunity to remind you all to be careful when dealing with callers at the door. Please bear the following in mind: Your best defence is a closed door Lock back doors and patio doors when answering the front door Use a door chain or speak through an open fanlight window Make an appointment so that a friend, relative or neighbour can be with you Avoid paying cash upfront

For items over £42 you usually have 14 days to cancel (There are some exceptions) If you need to find a reputable trader consider the ‘Buy with Confidence’ Scheme If you have been tricked tell someone straightaway The non-emergency number for the Police is 101. For consumer advice or to access the ‘Buy with Confidence’ Scheme either ring Consumer Direct on 03454 04 05 06 or visit www.buywithconfidence. info

If you would like further information you can ring, email or talk to me when you see me. Martin Sherwood Kent Community Warden for Lenham and Harrietsham On 07 977 981 993 Or email me on martin.sherwood@ kent.gov.uk

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Lenham Cricket Club

The Saturday side entertained Marden on 5th July looking to avenge the crushing defeat inflicted upon them in mid-June. Lenham batted first and scored 154 off their 45 overs. Jack Gracie continued his good form from the previous month’s round up, top scoring with 42. Pete Humphries chipped in with 27 and Steve Horton 24. In response Marden lost wickets at regular intervals, a few batsman getting starts but none of them able to push on. They were eventually dismissed for 108. Steve Livesey picked up 5 wickets for 42 runs, and Jack Gracie took 3 wickets for 33 runs. A winning start to this month’s round up! The following day Lenham played host to Egerton. Lenham batted first and scored 132, not able to bat out their 40 overs, dismissed inside 37 overs. Dave Seales top scored with 38, Tom Curtis 22 and Martyn Smith 19. Egerton reached the modest target inside 26 overs for the loss of 5 wickets. Brian Tree took 4 wickets, Tom Curtis taking the other 1 to fall. The following Saturday there was a break from league cricket, Presidents’ Day instead taking its place. Similar to the 2013 format a 6-a-side tournament was held.

Lenham Cricket Club

Teams were represented by the Presidents, Lenham Social Club (LSC), The Red Lion and The Dog & Bear, thanks once again to Brian and Anne for the shirts! Despite a damp start to the day the weather improved and made for an enjoyable day. The games consisted on 5 8 ball overs, with each player excluding the wicket keeper bowling an over which made for an interesting spectacle, especially for the non-bowlers! Upon reaching 25, players retired but could bat again if their team had lost all of their remaining wickets. For the second consecutive year LSC, captained by Dan Russell, won the competition. The day following Presidents’ Day the 8 men of Lenham’s Sunday side travelled to Sissinghurst. Sissinghurst kindly lent Lenham 2 players to even things up a little. In a timed game Sissinghurst won the toss and opted to bat first. The Lenham bowlers did a good job early on and had 5 wickets down for 39 runs. However, a strong partnership in the middle order saw Sissinghurst reach 206. Tom Curtis picked up 3 wickets for 31 runs, Jack Gracie 2 wickets and

Dan and Stuart Russell took 1 wicket each. In response Lenham got off to a good start with Martyn Smith (33) and Tom Curtis (34) putting on 60 for the first wicket. However, this was the only real resistance in the Lenham batting and they were dismissed for 155. The following Saturday Lenham hosted Linton Park. The game at Linton Park earlier on in the season had been rained off with just 6 overs of cricket being possible. Unfortunately for Lenham there was no sign of rain on this occasion! The sun shone brightly and it could be argued it was the only highlight of the day. Linton Park won the toss and chose to bowl first. In one of the worst displays possibly witnessed at Lenham they were dismissed inside 20 overs for 22 runs! There were 7 ducks in the Lenham lineup, extras accounting for 4 of the runs. It was no surprise that Linton Park knocked off the necessary runs inside 4 overs. However, they did lose 2 wickets, taken by Tom Curtis. The following day the Sunday side were not looking for a repeat of the previous day’s result when they entertained East Sutton. Unfortunately poor weather meant

that only 6 overs were possible. Lenham batted the 6 overs and scored 50, Matt Revitt got off to a flyer, and will be disappointed that the rain came when it did; he scored 38 of the runs scored. The good weather returned the following weekend when Lenham played Milstead, in a fairly badtempered match. It was to be Lenham’s last home game before five away games on the spin. Lenham won the toss and fielded first. Milstead were restricted 186 off their 45 overs. Tom Curtis was the pick of the Lenham bowlers taking 4 for 32. Despite a solid start from the Lenham openers Pete Humphries (49) and Adrian Longley (54), Lenham fell agonisingly 1 run short of their target. There was no game the following day for the Sunday side with ‘Pixie’s Fun Day’ and Rounders taking the place of cricket. The Saturday side also had a day off the following week before they were off on their travels for the last few games. On Sunday 3rd August Murston were the visitors. Lenham lost just 3 wickets in their 40 overs. Matt Revitt 73, Pete Humphries 70, Tom Curtis 28 and Nick Rutledge 27 were the main stay

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

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

Friends of St Mary’s Lenham presents

The Annual

Village Barn Dance Dancing to

‘Whistling

In the

Skirmish’

Tithe Barn, Lenham Courtesy of Val and John Arthur

Saturday 27 September Dancing starts @ 7.30pm

Tickets: £8.00 per person

(children under 16yrs £4.00)

Bring your own drinks and nibbles or order food from Chequers Fish Bar, Lenham Square lenhamfocus.co.uk

Advertisers

Tickets can be 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

Continued... of the Lenham batting scoring a total of 203. Lenham fielded well and despite Murston only losing 3 wickets they fell 16 short of their target, reaching 187 off their 40 overs. Tom Curtis, Stuart Russell and Dave Seales each picked up 1 wicket. The last round up of the month saw Lenham travel to Bobbing Court to play Newington on Monday 4th August to kick off their festival week; the third successive season we have done this. Lenham got off to a good start having won the toss and deciding to bat first. Tom Curtis (29) and Pete Humphries (24) put on 64 for the first wicket but some poor shots from the middle to lower order saw Lenham dismissed for just 124, 6 overs short of their allotted 40. Newington got off to a flying start in the run chase but lost 5 wickets for few runs. They eventually reached their target for the loss of 6 wickets off just 27 overs. Whilst the result was not the one Lenham wanted it was good to be involved in Newington’s cricket week and hopefully we will be back next year. That concludes this month’s round up from the senior sides. Fixtures cards are available at various establishments in the village, but if you don’t have a copy the next few fixtures are as

follows; Saturday 6th September Boughton & Eastwell away, Sunday 7th September Hartley away, Sunday 14thSeptember Harrietsham home, Sunday 21st September Smarden home, Sunday 28th September Sissinghurst home. If you’re interested in joining the club, please contact us at lenhamcc@gmail.com or call 07725 632955, and remember, visitors are always welcome on match days! The future for Lenham CC looks bright. Below, Lenham’s Colts section with Alex Gray and Jack Ambrose.

Lenham CC had 15 colts this season, attending coaching on Monday nights from April through to end of August. All of the colts improved their skills and gained valuable experience in the game of cricket. This was evident when

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Continued...

they competed in the Kent Cricket Board’s U9s softball competition. Clustered with Leeds and Broomfield 1st & 3rd, Hollingbourne, Headcorn and Bapchild played each team twice in the 8-a-side games. They had their best results since we first entered the competition finishing joint 3rd in our cluster, notably being the only team to beat L&B 1sts. This was an excellent effort by the colts who enjoyed every minute of the games; well-done guys. I must take this opportunity to thank Jack Ambrose for his assistance during the season, the players for their effort and the parents for their help and positive support they have shown, thank you. Looking forward to seeing you all next season, Alex Gray Lenham CC Coach. Pixie’s Fun Day Lenham CC staged another fabulous Family Fun Day on Sunday 27th July. The weather held out enhancing the day, with over 120 people either relaxing with a picnic, enjoying the barbeque or sampling the wonderful cakes, all washed down with the refreshments. The

Continued...

children enjoyed the 3 inflatables, a bungee run, bouncy castle and mega slide supplied by Chris Maxwell 07960 981938, with all the families fully committed and thoroughly enjoying the Rounders tournament. Seven teams entered the tournament: The Undecided, The Big Cherries, OOOSSSHHH, The Wafters, The Unknowns, Squirrel & the Freaks and Kids Galore. They played each other once on a timed innings basis with no one sitting out, just losing 2 rounders then re-joining the batting queue again. Players aged from 2 to 75 battled against each other and the tournament proved to be great fun and entertainment, with the Amber Nectar fuelling the excitement for the game as the day went on. The games were very well umpired with lots of reviews/challenges but would you believe it the umpire was always right!!! And yes Joe you are still out!! All the games were excellent with even some tied matches. Every team contributed. The Undecided claimed the scalp of the eventual winners, Big Cherries got the record for the most outs in a row, four - all catches! And a fine for their captain Michelle for body-line bowling a 5 year old! OOOSSSHH!!!!, the noisiest and

most enthusiastic team were also the biggest hitters, Squirrels had the most falls in a game and lost the most dummies, Kids Galore where the kids were quicker & better than pops, Unknowns were the runner ups with the Wafters the winners of the tournament. A big thank you to all the players, visitors, Red Lion, Dog & Bear, Sweeney Todd, Chequers Fish Bar and McColl’s for the raffle prizes; the band of volunteers, barbeque chefs, ticket sellers, refreshment and cake stall helpers, umpires and my dad who had the unenviable task of marshalling the inflatables. Without everybody’s help and support the day would not have been successful and

your assistance is very much appreciated.

Looking forward to next year, Pixie. At this time of year as Parish Clerk I receive several phone calls reporting bonfires; the question always asked is are you allowed to have bonfires in residential areas? The following information may prove useful.

The Constitutional Monarchy Association Kent Group Whose aim is to support our monarchy, will be holding a meeting at the Dog and Bear Hotel, Lenham, on Saturday 4th October at 1.30 p.m.at which Ian Pelham-Turner, the former royal photographer who took the first official portraits of HRH Prince William, will talk about ‘Royal Photography Then and Now’.

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

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Bonfires

Can I have a bonfire? Anyone can have a bonfire at any time of the day. All that matters is what you are burning and that you are considerate to your neighbours. Here is a list of what you can or cannot burn: Only burn dry material. Never burn household rubbish, tyres or anything containing plastic, foam or paint. Never use old engine oil, meths or petrol to light the fire or to encourage it. 30

Avoid having a bonfire in unsuitable weather conditions – smoke hangs in the air on damp, still days and in the evening. If it is windy, smoke may be blown into neighbours’ gardens and across roads. Avoid burning when air pollution in your area is high or very high. You will find this out in weather forecasts, by viewing the Department for Environment, Food and Rural affairs (DEFRA) air forecasts website or by calling DEFRA’S Air Pollution Hotline on 0800 556677

Homeless Care

Never leave the fire unattended or leave it to smoulder – put water on it, if necessary. If you are bothered by smoke you can approach your neighbour and explain the problem. You might feel awkward, but they may not be aware of the distress they are causing and it will hopefully make them more considerate in the future. If you find it difficult to approach your neighbour visit the Maidstone Mediation Services website for advice or call 01622 692843. If this fa i l s email enforcementoperations@ maidstone.gov.uk or call 01622 602202 to tell us about the problems you‘re having. We will investigate your complaint and we have the power to serve a notice to stop the issue. The above information is provided by Maidstone Borough Council. Margo McFarlane Parish Clerk

L�� V�� S��

Lottery • Tobacco • Off-Licence • Groceries

For a warm welcome come and see us at the square! Mon - Thurs 8am - 6 pm Fri & Sat 8am - 9pm Sunday 10am - 6pm lenhamvillagestore.co.uk

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Temporary Road Closure Old Ham Lane, Lenham – from 22 September 2014 for up to 2 days The whole length of the road will be closed. The alternative route is via Sandway Road, Headcorn Road, High Street and Ham Lane. The closure is to enable the cleansing of drainage and to reset covers to be carried out by KCC Highways.

Regards Road Closures Co-ordinator, West Kent Division KCC Highways, Transportation & Waste: keeping you up to date with what’s happening on our roads for more information visit http:// www.kent.gov.uk/travel or· http:// www.kent.gov.uk/highways For details of roadworks, please see www.roadworks.org

Parish of St Peter, Bearsted and The Good Shepherd, Harrietsham St Peter’s Church, Bearsted celebrates its 30th Anniversary with the September Flower Festival St Peter’s Church, Button Lane, Bearsted is holding a Flower Festival from 26th – 28th September to celebrate the Church’s 30th anniversary. The Church will feature beautiful floral displays depicting the diversity of parish life through the years. Parishioners are looking forward to welcoming visitors on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th Sept, from 10 – 4pm and on Sunday 28th September from 12-4pm. Entry

Temporary Road Closure

is free and refreshments will be available. All ages welcome, both from the local communities and other local churches. Parish Priest Father Geoffrey Pointer said “Flowers are a good way to express the joy of our faith; like poetry and music, flowers speak straight to the heart”. For more information contact Father Geoffrey Pointer Tel: 01622 736100 Email: parishpriest@catholicbearsted.org.uk Website: www.catholic-bearsted. org.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 & Lenham Beavers Harrietsham and Lenham Scouts Harrietsham and Lenham Cubs Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Union Pilates Classes Redback Explorer Scouts Royal British Legion St John Ambulance Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Institute St Edmunds Platts Heath Country Ways Quilters and stitchers Lenham Valley Business Association

Lesley Feakes Mrs Manley Linda Bird Lyn Fuller Andrea French Gail Kelly Keith Varney Mrs J Thomsett Mrs Pat Abson Ami Rathmill Janet Moll Steve Campbell Club Events Duncan Keenan Nick Still Mrs A Seales Mrs J Thomsett Vivien Elcomb Mark Horlock Mr W Peter Mrs Bond Mrs C Toner Karen Yardley Jan Haines Alan Reading

Borough Councillors: Kent Highway Services Dog Warden Cat Protection Drugs Helpline Heaths Countryside Corridor Lenham Enhancement Ass. Lenham Country Market Lenham Community Centre

John Barned (Roads, Pavements)

Lenham Heath Parish Hall LenValley Practice Non-Emergency NHS Care Member of Parliament Parish Council Clerk Parish Police PCSO Police Constable Rural Community Warden

Sharon Reed Doctors Surgery NHS Hugh Robertson MP Margo McFarlane Dave Rowley Brian Waghorne Martin Sherwood

Lost and Found FREE CALL Ruth Lovering Brian Llong Kevin Fitzsimons Margaret Mitchell

01622 850275 01622 842603 01233 756762 01622 851538 01622 851646 01622 850671 01622 850228 01622 859009 01622 858561 07967 128056 01622 850747 01622 851022 01622 858890 07768 926654 01622 859789 01622 859829 01622 859009 01622 853887 07789 226516 01622 850520 01622 205452 01622 850048 01622 858208 01233 714699 01622 820841 01622 851142 03000 418181 01622 602117 01732 847572 0800 776600 01622 842257 01622 859733 01622 679709 01622 853800 (am) 01622 858581 (pm) 01233 713317 01622 858341/859204 111 01622 851616 01622 859682 07772 226097 07870 252317 07977 981993

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Accounting & Business Services Alarm Systems Architectural Services Barbers Builders/decorators

Businss Consultant Butchers/Meat Carpentry Carpets/Flooring Caterers Catteries

Charted Surveyor Childminder Chimney Sweep Chip Shop Chiropody Cleaning/Housekeeping Computer Services

Cosmetic Clinic Counselling Service Dance Electricians/Gas fitters

Estate Agents Fitness Funeral Directors Gardeners

Contact Numbers

Stonebridge Associates Cybereye Security Kent Design Studio Sweeney Todd Andy and Paul Apollo Butler Driveways Elwood (Painter/decorators) KRS Building/decorating SR Interiors (painters/decorators) Stuttle Dyer (painters/decorators) Nick Posener 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 Chequers Fish Bar Afeneh Smith (mobile service) Heathers Chiropody Surgery Amy McLaughlin Phynix Domestic cleaning A.C. Computers Harrietsham Computers Lynn MS Computer services The LenValley Cosmetic Clinic Prism Lenham Ballet School GDC School of Dancing AD Pink Electrics Barrie Weston Contractor Electrical Solutions MGI Electrical Philip Jarvis Activate Body and Soul A W Court Just a Mow Mower Repairs

851542 858612 01580 230413 07734950329 850437 07808414965 850491 01634308933 851126 737225 01233 840004 851931 858220 01795890700 850364 858719 01233714999 763269 858510 859469 850608 01233714247 01622 632641 859878 853640 850376 07813030527 880028 850462 859442 745654 859969 852905 07554336626 850329 850800 884774 01233712663 858794 850055 858241 853750 850840 859940 07989333145

Garages Grocers Hairdressers Hall Hire Handbags and Jewellery Holiday Let Landscaping Lawnmower Repairs Locksmiths Logs Newsagents Osteopathy Pest Control Pharmacy Plumbers Pool Services Printers Pubs Restaurant Roofing Schools Solicitors Taxi Tree Surgeons TV Ariels Veterinary Surgery Will Services Window Cleaning

Belmont Gardens 01795 590243 Keithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gardening Service 07803 577086 Gowers Garage 858210 Lenham Village Store 858255 Phase Hairdressing 850001 Smartyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 851150 Bow Window 858787 Lenham Comm Centre 853800 Charing Heath Hall 01233 713317 Immyblingy 298129 Dorset Cottage 851766 Ireland Landscapes 844605 Maidstone Landscapes and Paving 851222 Mowtastic 07989 333145 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 J W Engineering Services 851713 Print & Roll 859483 The White Horse 859511 Lenham Social Club 858890 Leeds Castle 767777 Carter Roofing 01795886084 R and D Roofing 858291 Paul Grant Roofing 850855 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 01580 292320 Sparkles 07856 110682

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Regular Daily & Weekly Events Daily

Activate Fitness Facilites

Monday Tuesday

Wednesday

St Johns Ambulance Badminton (Feathers) Parent & Toddlers Group Harr & Lenham Cubs Lenham Badminton Club Lenham Youth Club H/sham&Lenham Beavers St Johns Ambulance Lenham Youth Club Pilates classes

Messy Mums Babies + Toddlers Line Dancing LenARA Thursday Brownies 2nd Lenham Pilates classes Line Dancing Redbacks Explorer Scouts Music Mayhem Friday Guides 1st Lenham 36 H/sham&Lenham Scouts Judo Club LenARA Keep Fit Lenham Youth Club Saturday Sunday

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

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 Community Centre 8.pm Swadelands Ham Lane 7.00-9.30pm Harrietsham Scout Hut 5.45- 7.15.pm Cadets (10-18) 6.00-8.00pm Swadelands Ham Lane 7.00-9.30pm Community Centre 7.00pm-8.00pm 8.30 -9.30pm St Mary’s Church 10.30-12 Term 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 Kingswood Scout Hut 7.15-9.15pm Community Centre 10-11am Community Centre 7.00- 9.00pm Harrietsham Scout Hut 7.30- 9.30pm Community Centre 5.30- 8.30pm Community Centre 2.00- 3.30pm Swadelands Ham Lane 7.30-10.00pm 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

Monthly Events 2nd Tuesday 2nd Tuesday 1st Tuesday 1st Wednesday 4th Wednesday Last Wednesday 1st Thursday 2nd Thursday 3rd Thursday Last Saturday 2nd Sunday

Derby & Joan Royal British Legion Lenham Valley Parish Council Meeting LenARA (active retired) Archaeology Club Reading Group Women’s Institute Lenham Gardening Soc. Len&Har. Disability Grp Lenham Country Market

Regular Daily & Weekly Events

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

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

Paul Grant Roofing Contractors All aspects of roofing work undertaken. Listed Building Specialist Strip / Re-tile / Kent Peg / Slating / Leadwork 35 years experience All work fully guaranteed For a free quotation and friendly advice on any roofing matter. OďŹ&#x192;ce: 01622 850855 Mobile: 07850740637 paulgrant747@gmail.com www.paulgrantroofingcontractors.co.uk Card payments accepted 37

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Lenham Family Festival 2015 June 11th-14th We have our first meeting to plan for next year’s event on Thursday September 25th at 7.15pm at Lenham Community Centre. All are welcome! The event has been booked again for 11th –14th June 2015. The Community Centre has been provisionally booked for Saturday June 13th and there will be an event at the market on Sunday June 14th.

This year’s festival was successful in its fundraising efforts for the Demelza Children’s Hospice, Alzheimer’s Society and Cancer Research UK and cheques for £720 were sent to each charity. There were so many people to thank. There were so many people who made contributions, before in the planning, the artists who appeared freely and for the sheer enjoyment of performing, the many

volunteers who helped the events run smoothly and the community organisations and societies who made the Saturday event so much the community family event we desired. The ethos of friendly co-operation and volunteering for the charities is what kept the team working so well together, and that was much appreciated by all that took part. We have learnt from the event and have taken people’s views on board to make next year’s event even better. We have a small enthusiastic group of people who worked as part of the organising team. Anyone who wants to become involved is very welcome to join. Please ring Tom & Janetta on 01622 859412. For more information view www. lenhamfamilyfestival.co.uk Lenham Family Festival Team. Back at the end of July, I attended

LENHAM 2026:Do we want our village to double in size?? Maidstone Local Plan is currently proposing that this will happen! Lenham, with about 3,500 inhabitants (ca2,000 in village), still feels and acts like a village. It has just about survived the building of a large council house Lenham Family Festival 2015 June 11th-14th

estate, a couple of retirement developments and a few moderate modern housing projects The 2007 Parish Plan failed to provide any pro-active suggestions on key issues such as roads, parking, housing, industry, leisure

and infrastructure. Clear outputs such as protecting our green spaces and avoiding major housing developments (93%) were however recorded. The 2011 ‘Localism Act’ was introduced to create a shift in power from central government to local level, providing new rights and power to communities and individuals. The new ‘democratic’ planning system was to ensure that decisions about housing are taken locally and that the ‘community’ has the ‘right to challenge’. The ’Neighbourhood Plan’ (NP) is the tool to say ‘what goes where and what it looks like’. It includes a referendum to confirm local approval and official status. Lenham was late in starting NP action but under the leadership of Andrew Newman, an ex-planning officer, the process commenced in 2012 with a very professional communication programme so that any interested resident could understand and participate. Unfortunately, Andrew left Lenham in 2013 and although much work has been done, the project is incomplete. In November 2012 Maidstone Borough Council draft core strategy required Lenham to provide 110 additional houses by 2026 using approx. 10 acres of land. In 2014 Central Government adopted a series of programmes to increase the rate of house building in UK, including the setting of much higher targets for local

authorities. Some great ideas emerged including a new Garden City at Ebbsfleet with excellent transport links, a well thoughtout educational, commercial and utilities infrastructure, to be set in an area of little aesthetic or agricultural value! In March 2014 Maidstone Borough Council, using very doubtful selection criteria, simply announced that 1,500 (+245) houses should be built in Lenham, although they are currently unable to specify exactly where! However local landowners are volunteering their land for development, including the allotments and cricket pitch. What a get rich quick bonanza!!!!!! Envisage more than 4,000 new residents, probably non-Kentish, and the impact on our community! More than doubling the size of our village! Can Lenham survive this massive change without totally destroying the ‘village’ environment?? We have yet to see any infrastructure proposals!

Now is the time for all Lenham residents to take action to prevent this ‘planning’ disaster! Make your opinions know to Parish and Borough Councillors and MP!!! and sign up on ‘savelenham.org’ website!

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Focus on Nature

a retreat in Tenby and did not fancy the arduous journey by car (age 84 and counting!), so I travelled by train for the first time in years. Gazing out of my compartment window, I was really impressed by the huge profusion of one of our tallest wild flowers ... Rosebay Willow herb ... Epilobium angustifolium, flowering all along the cuttings and embankments. It took my memory back to the end of the Second World War, when all the bomb sites were rapidly colonised by this handsome plant, providing a dramatic splash of colour over all the ruins when other generations had been wiped out by fire, hence the local name of fireweed. It possesses very tough and fastgrowing underground stems, by means of which it soon spreads. Each flower is borne on a purple stalk in the axis of a small, narrow bract. Between two of the four petals is a large gap through which protrude the eight long stamens and the long style capped by four stigmas. The nectar is secreted on the upper surface of the ovary and the long stamens project horizontally when ripe, with the style hanging downwards. Once an insect comes, attracted by the nectar, it buzzes around thus removing the exposed pollen,

Focus on Nature

after which the stamens curve down and the style curves up to receive pollen from the next insect visitor ... yet another ingenious fertilisation process! After fertilisation, the fruit grows into a large capsule (some 3 inches in length) which contains many seeds. Once fully ripe, the fruits split downwards into four equal parts, thus exposing the seeds, each of which is provided with a wonderful parachute, formed of long silky hairs. Even the slightest movement of air is enough to cause each mini balloon of seeds to take off and drift, sometimes for miles over the landscape. During late Julyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sultry heat when house windows were opened, it was not unusual for such a delicate parachute to pay a visit. In some parts of northern Europe, this plant was considered to be edible and young stems were cooked to eat like asparagus. The young stems and leaves were often used as potherbs and there are actually records of the leaves being used to adulterate tea! Not to be recommended! Derek Budge

The Great War Event

On 2nd August 1914 the village of Lenham was beginning to realise that the threatened European War might reach out its tentacles towards Britain. A hundred years later, on a Saturday this time, the 2nd August saw a superb commemoration of the village’s role in the First World War, held in the Community Centre and masterminded by Nick Osborne on behalf of the Hatch Charity. Heralded by Lenham’s town crier, Gez Clark, the event was opened by Richard Maylam, great-nephew of James Troup Hatch, the charity’s founder. There were two magicians present: one was the excellent local magician John Lineham who

entertained children and adults alike throughout the event; the other was Nick Osborne himself, who waved his magic wand and presented such a first class programme. He had many willing hands helping out, to whom many thanks indeed, particularly to the hardworking and indispensable Lenham Ladies, Gill Osborne and Jenny Lloyd. In charge of the refreshments they were central to the event, both physically in the foyer area and in creating such a sociable atmosphere. Visitors were welcomed at the door by VAD Sarah Hills, a great-granddaughter of Sam Clark who served in the war. The Guides, the Lenham British Legion, the new Lenham Heritage group, the Parish Council and textile artist Nell Weatherley all made fascinating contributions for adults, while John Lineham, a bouncy castle and Jessica the face painter catered for the younger generation. Thanks go to those who shared their expertise for the afternoon: the Grafty School of Dancing and the Lenham Ballet School presented stunning displays of dancing; Lesley Bellew spoke of the poignant stories she had been told while gathering material for the two major Kent Messenger First World War Supplements

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Continued...

published this year; Steve Finnis of the Royal West Kent Museum talked of the regimental system and the story of the first major clash of armies in the war at Mons in a way that came across realistically and all too graphically; and Geoff Rambler talked of the walks he leads for charity around Kent during which he explains at various points en route what had happened there a hundred years ago. The event concluded with a moving presentation by the Lenham Players which evoked in poems, letters and song the reason for our all being there: to commemorate the suffering and sacrifice of those

who served during the First World War. The day had also seen the launch of Lenham and the Great War, the story of the 260 Lenham men who served in it, published by the Hatch Charity. The book sold like hot cakes – as good as those provided by the Lenham Ladies! If you missed the show the book is on sale at Pippa’s Tearooms, Len Valley News, Lenham Library and at the September market. Donations for sales of the book will go to Help for Heroes and the Lenham British Legion. Amy Myers Photograph by Jim Myers

Freshwater Boreholes for Zambia I’ve discovered that around our villages we have, on average, 6 taps in our houses and maybe one in the garden too. Access to clean, fresh water for drinking, cooking, washing up and washing, for our gardens and hanging baskets, for our pets and even to wash our cars. Whenever we want.

the nearest water source may be several miles away and not particularly clean either. Whose job is it to spend several hours a day lugging heavy jerrycans of water home? Usually the girls, who then miss out on their schooling and are sometimes attacked as they are out in the bush on their own.

In rural areas of Zambia, though,

Do we care enough to do anything?

Swadelands Annual Awards Evening

The 4 churches of the Len Valley have decided they do! They’ve joined with a Christian relief agency called Tearfund and are supporting a project in 4 villages in the southern highlands of Zambia. This project drills boreholes in villages and then trains community leaders in basic sanitation and health education. The results are remarkable. Villages are transformed. What the villagers have to say is often very moving. Ngebe Makai, a village headman, says, “I have discovered that poor sanitation has hindered my fight against poverty. Repeated cases of diarrhoea and other diseases have seriously interrupted my children’s school attendance. We paid the price for poor sanitation in lost earnings, lower productivity, and the cost of medical attention and treatment ….We feel so blessed in this village because of the yielded pleasant results from the water and sanitation activities implemented in this area by the Connected Church project.”

Why do we care enough to do something? We surely all agree that in terms of basic human fairness we should help those who are powerless to help themselves. But it goes deeper than that. Jesus is our example and he models compassion and practical help for those on the margins.

Join us in the Len Valley Churches this year as we start our second year of supporting this worthwhile project and aim to raise at least £1500. Christian message Helen Venn ST MARY’S CHURCH FLOWER ROTA September 6/13 Mrs Humphrey September 20/27 Mrs Nahab Brasscleaning Mr Swaffield

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

One Moment In Rhyme

A Lenham Summer I’d like to write a poem about something unique To everyone in Lenham, I’d now like to speak For you and for me, but by outsiders not seen This is about Lenham’s summer in two thousand and fourteen I’m writing this poem on the 30th of July So I do understand if you’re asking yourself why I say weather’s been great, a fortune I bet That the rest of August is now miserable and wet! From the gardeners I hear ‘I beg your pardon.. If it doesn’t rain soon our gardens will harden’ We need Mother Nature’s help to make the plants grow And a flourish of colour helps put on a show

We love sport in the village and just get better each year The under 9 cricketers won matches, so let out a cheer And the volunteer helpers that are making us cool By keeping the gates open at Swadelands swimming pool People will visit from near and from far And at the end of the day enjoy a drink from the bar Sitting in the Red Lion or the Dog and Bear It’s a wonderful village, one we’re proud to share So hope you had fun and now a request if I might Because each month in Focus I’d like to write A poem of your choosing so please drop me a line And it could be your idea that I write about next time. Mark Godfrey One Moment In Rhyme

Bespoke poetry from One Moment In Rhyme – www.onemomentinrhyme.homestead.com Tel: 07720 401749. Email: info@onemomentinrhyme.com

One Moment In Rhyme

Church Services Sunday 7th September – 12th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am at St. John the Baptist, Harrietsham: Family Worship 9.30 am at St. Nicholas, Boughton Malherbe: Holy Communion 11.00 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: Holy Communion 11.15 am at All Saints, Ulcombe: Family Worship Sunday 14th September – 13th Sunday after Trinity 8.00 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: BCP Holy Communion 9.30 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: New Breakfast service 9.30 am at St. John the Baptist, Harrietsham: Holy Communion 11.00 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: Morning Worship 11.15 am at All Saint’s, Ulcombe: Holy Communion 6.30 pm at St. Nicholas Boughton Malherbe: Choral Evensong

Malherbe: Holy Communion 11.00 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: Holy Communion 11.15 am at All Saints, Ulcombe: Morning Worship Sunday 28th September – 15th Sunday after Trinity 8.00 am at St. Mary’s Lenham: BCP Holy Communion 9.30 am at St. John the Baptist, Harrietsham: Holy Communion 9.30 am at St. Nicholas, Boughton Malherbe: Family Worship 11.00 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: Family Worship 11.15 am at All Saints, Ulcombe: Holy Communion 6.30 pm at St. John the Baptist, Harrietsham: Informal Service

Sunday 21st September: 14th Sunday after Trinity 9.30 am at St. Mary’s, Lenham: New Breakfast service 9.30 am at St. John the Baptist, Harrietsham: Morning Worship 9.30 am at St. Nicholas, Boughton

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Pedal for Pounds Sunday 7th September 2014

Heart of Kent Hospice invites you and your family to join our ‘cycle of care’ with this 10km family fun ride through the private roads of the picturesque East Malling Research

Starting and finishing at East Malling Research Registration begins at 9.00am £10 per adult. £3 per child. £25 per family Please register early to avoid disappointment

Call: 01622 790195 Visit: www.hokh.org Email: fundraising@hokh.co.uk Join us on Facebook - Heart of Kent Hospice Follow us on Twitter @Heartofkenthosp Registered Charity Number 298164

Advertisers

Domestic Cleaning We clean so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to! Competitive Pricing Fully Insured Reliable Professional Trustworthy

Available to do: Household Cleans End of Tenancy Cleans New Builds

phynixcleaning.co.uk

Call Us 01622 880028

Office: Hollingbourne, Maidstone, Kent 47

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

The Len Valley Group of Churches needs a part-time permanent PA / administrator. We are looking for someone to be the friendly voice of our churches – so you must be good on the phone and have empathy with the wide variety of people who contact us.

We are looking for someone to work with the four churches preparing notice sheets, orders of service, presentations etc. – so you must be good with a computer, able to work with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, documents and data in “the cloud,” etc., and be able to pick up errors quickly and work accurately and rapidly. We are looking for someone to organise our two clergy and their workload, to help them with administration, filing, emails, etc.

so you must be flexible and able to prioritise. We are looking for someone who attends church, is familiar with the Bible and comfortable working with Christians. You will need to be enthusiastic, a self-starter able to work on your own and in teams. You will work partly from the office in the Village Hall in Harrietsham and partly with the clergy. Hours (negotiable) 9.30 – 12.30, four or five days per week, pay £8-£8.50 per hour. If you are interested, please email lvbpic@gmail.com in the first instance for further information.

Changes coming for the Len Valley Churches Rev Dick Venn and Rev Millie Hart have decided, with the agreement of all four Church Councils, to experiment with a different way of working. Instead of trying to get round to all the churches every month they will

each concentrate on two churches. Millie’s focus will be on Boughton Malherbe and Harrietsham and Dick’s on Ulcombe and Lenham. This will give them more time at each church and in each village and enable them to get to know more

The Len Valley Group of Churches needs a part-time permanent PA / administrator.

people. The new arrangements will begin in September and be reviewed after a year. Other changes include the introduction of a new Breakfast service at 9.30am each week in Lenham except on the fourth Sunday when those who come to the new service will take part in the existing 11am Family Service. The Breakfast service will be short and informal and will begin with toast, tea and coffee. There will be no need to say SHUSH! to children. They can join in at their own level.

Come along and join us for the launch on September 14th. Harrietshamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s change will take place in October. The existing 9.30am Family Service on the first Sunday of the month will be replaced by a new style service called The GIFT Gathering. GIFT stands for Growing In Faith Together. All ages will be welcome at this service at the new time of 3.30pm on October 5th and monthly thereafter. Why not try it out?

Messy Church this Autumn 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! From 4pm to 6pm. Here are our autumn dates and venues:

20th September Lenham church 25th October Ulcombe Village Hall 15th November Harrietsham School 13th December Lenham church Hope to see you soon! Â

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Lenham Girl Guides Interview with Julia Thomsett and Mary Terry (06 Aug ’14)

Julia Thomsett came to Lenham with her husband Mike in 1975. They set up home in Croft Gardens where Julia and her family live today. Mary Terry was born in Sandway and the majority of her Girl Guiding experience has been centred on and around Lenham. Together Julia and Mary have contributed over 75 years of adult volunteering and leadership in the Girl Guide movement or Girlguiding as it is known today. How is ‘Girlguiding’ structured? The youngest girls are the Rainbows, age 5–7, then the Brownies, age 7–10. The Guides follow on, age 10–14, and then there is the senior section age 14– 26. The adult leadership scheme is for those adults wishing to train for leadership in any of these sections.

Lenham Girl Guides

Julia’s involvement with Guiding started at the age of seven as a Brownie and then as a Guide at eleven. Having attained the Queen’s Guide Award at sixteen she then went on to be a member of the No. 1 Malling Air Rangers – a Girl Guide Senior Section unit based in Maidstone. This involved gliding as an air cadet at West Malling and flying at RAF Manston in the Chipmunk training planes. She then went on to be an adult leader with the unit in the 1970s. The last twenty two years has seen Julia leading the Guides here in Lenham with the valuable support over the years of assistant leaders Barbara Jones, Joyce Pawsey, Paula Jardine-Rose and Mary Terry; all Lenham residents. Mary’s involvement in Guiding also began at the age of seven as a Lenham Guide. Mary recalls one

of the Guiders was Mrs Lambert, a Lenham resident. In 1973 the Lenham Guides was about to close due to lack of leaders and Mary was ‘drawn’ back into Guiding. Her continuous service extends to the present day. In 1989 her husband Frank was posted to Germany where Mary spent five years with a group of Rainbows, who were the children of the British Military. On her return to Lenham Mary helped with the Lenham Brownies and for the past fifteen years has been an invaluable support with Julia and the Lenham Guides. Thanks to the work and dedication of 100,000 volunteers, Girlguiding is active in every part of the UK. Here in Lenham the Guides meet at the Community Centre on a Friday night, 7–9pm, during term time. Girls are given space where they can be themselves, have fun, build friendships, gain valuable skills and make a positive difference to their lives and their community. At the start of the summer holidays, six Guides, Charlie Winstone, Sequoyah Hills, Eleanor Pilcher, Eleanor Davies, Wednesday Haddon and Louise Price joined over 300 Kent Weald Guides at an activity camp in Sussex. Activities included abseiling, climbing, zipwire, archery and craft. Basic camping skills were gained as well as the girls surviving a violent thunderstorm and torrential rain! The final evening ended with a rousing camp fire.

For the second year Lenham Guides took part in a Districtwide event comprising Rainbows, Brownies and Guides from Hollingbourne, Harrietsham and Lenham. The Len Valley Swaffield challenge is held annually in memory of Sheila Swaffield – a long standing Guide Leader in Lenham and Platts Heath and Division Commissioner. This year the event was animal-themed with interactive presentations involving live creatures such as tarantulas, geckos, snakes, hedgehogs and a vulture! The competition challenged the girls to create an animal-inspired mobile at their meetings before the event. The trophy was presented for the second year to Lenham Guides. This year within the community the Guides have helped with the parish litter pick, have raised £150 for charities with their Tombola at the Lenham Festival and helped at the Gardeners’ Society meals.

Why have Julia, Mary and other adult leaders devoted so much of their lives to Girlguiding? Because it is rewarding, fun and they love it! Both Julia and Mary underline the need for more adult volunteers, whether they are occasional helpers or qualified leaders, to keep going this rich and constructive century-old tradition running through future generations. Text by Jim Myers Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Harrietsham remix reboot youth club

Can we welcome 3 of our newest members Les, Nelly & Dot combined ages of 268 who have attended our club for the last 6 weeks? As a pilot project they have come along and taken part in youth club activities.

club members have made them feel very welcome and have learnt much about older people and it has been a very positive experience all round. If anyone young or older wants to join and become involved please contact me.

They have sung along with the other young people and listened patiently to the club members singing and playing their musical instruments. It has been an absolute pleasure being involved with their friendly enthusiasm with the young members. The youth

We meet each Monday 7.30-9pm. A lift may be able to be arranged.

Harrietsham remix re-boot youth club

Tom Sams remix co-ordinator 859412

Pedal for Pounds Sunday 7th september 2014 All proceeds to the heart of kent hospice Join the Heart of Kent Hospice on Sunday 7th September for a 10KM family cycle ride through the private estate at East Malling Research. Explore Kentish orchards, the stunning Bradbourne House and the seldom accessible village cricket pitch. The two laps of our 5KM route starting and finishing at East Malling Research are flat and suitable for all ages and abilities of cyclists. Places can be prebooked now at just £10.00 per adult, £3.00 per child and £25.00 for a family of two adults and three children. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Registration opens at 9.00 a.m. on 7th September and closes at 10.00 a.m. after which you will not be

able to set off. For further information or to book your place please contact fundraising@hokh.co.uk, visit our website www.hokh.org or phone us on 01622 790195. Thanks and kind regards, Dorothy

40% off design work on this advert space. This could be your advert for £21pm

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

This could be your advert for ÂŁ13pm

Advertisers

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES Planning and Building Control Drawings

All this from one plumber! Bathroom Installations Drains & toilets serviced General domestic plumbing Leaking pipes Replacement taps Kitchen installations Repairs and installation Power Flushing

Tiling Painting Decorating Odd jobs No job too small Fully insured FREE quotes No call out cost

and friendly professional advice

LL EY

LE N H

14/09/2014 & 12/10/2014 V AM A

MEMBER

s Assoc

T: 01622 851186 M: 0791 438 0521 info@allfixplumbing.co.uk www.allfixplumbing.co.uk Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Wills, Las)ng Powers of A3orney (LPAs), prepaid funeral plans Wills: Everyone needs one. It’ll take just 40 minutes of your :me and we do the rest – why not include a Property Trust to help protect the value of your home. LPAs: If someone loses capacity the partner has to apply to the Court to manage things but it can take a very long ;me and cost £’000s. All this could be avoided with an LPA. Prepaid funeral plans: these plans “lock in” at today’s prices & will cover the cost whenever it’s needed. They also make things so much easier for those leF behind. Guaranteed acceptance regardless of age or health. Contact us for a free no obliga;on quote

Maidstone Wills & Trusts 01580 292320 We come to you. Low cost. Fully insured. All work checked by our legal team. www.maidstonewills.com mail:services@maidstonewills.com

Advertisers

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

This could be your advert for ÂŁ13pm

Advertisers

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Scarves • Silver Jewellery • Purses • Hair Accessories • Fashion Bags • Costume Jewellery • Occasion Bags • Fascinators

Immyblingy bringing glamour to Lenham

MON-SAT 9:30-5 Open Market Sundays

Advertisers

01622 298129

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

Across clues 1. Where Pan Am Flight 103 crashed in December 1988. (9) 6. A growth attached by a stalk. (5) 9. 1961 film starring Charlton Heston. Rodrigo Diaz was know as this. (2.3) 10. Resident of island whose capital is Reykjavic. (9) 11. Down-growth from a cave ceiling. (10) 12. George …. . Irish footballer who died in 2005. (4) 14. Essential dispenser of paper! (3,4) 15. Village between Doddington and Faversham. (7) 17. Margate and Herne Bay are examples of these. (7) 19. Rod ……. . Actor who played in ‘The Heat of the Night’. (7) 20. Sentamu is the Archbishop of this City. (4) 22. Fighting. (10) 25. Ancient Greek philosopher. (9) 26. Absolute fear. (5) 27. Jessica ….. . Athlete. (5) 28. Kate is the Duchess of ……… .(9)

Down clues 1. Our nearest castle. (5) 2. Kinds of parrot. (9) 3. Attempts. (10) 4. ‘Ship-shape and ……. fashion’. (7) 5. Nearby village staging a regular music festival. (7) 6. She sang ‘Non, je regrette rien’. (4) 7. A gate-keeper’s cottage. (5) 8. Someone who works fewer hours than others. (4,5) 13. A variety of fermented apple juice. (5,5) 14. A sweet bake made of bread dough, fat and dried fruit. (5,4) 16. Name of the one time yoga centre in Lenham. (9) 18. The nerve running down the back of the leg 19. A fixed period of time. (3,4) 21. To be a monarch. (5) 23. Plant resembling a grass or rush. (5) 24. Well known maker of lifts. (4) Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Len Valley Practice Summer Newsletter WELCOME:

NEW SERVICES:

We are pleased to announce that Dr Nik Kendrew will be joining the team as Associate GP from 1st October. Dr Kendrew has many years’ experience as a GP locally. His working days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Psychological Therapy

Dr Andrew Taylor will be reducing his surgeries from 1st October; these will be on Monday mornings, Thursdays and Fridays.

We have two GP Registrars starting with us in August: Dr Lee Welsh is returning to us for his final training year, and Dr Stephen Brown is in his 2nd year of training. Dr Natalie Edwards returned in June and she will be with us until February 2016. All are fully qualified doctors. FLU CLINICS We will be commencing our flu clinics in October – please note the dates in your diary. Appointment not necessary. At Lenham Surgery: Saturday 11th October 8.30-11.30am At Harrietsham Surgery: Thursday 16th October 3-5pm

Len Valley Practice

Are you anxious, depressed or suffering with stress? Just realising that you’d like to talk about how you feel can be a difficult step for anyone to take, especially if these feelings are different to what you or your family and friends are used to. If you’ve got things on your mind that are changing the way you go about your day to day life, sitting down and talking it through with a friendly expert is the best thing you can do. Contact the Kent and Medway Social Care Partnership Trust. Patients may self-refer by telephoning 0800 2799 500, or pick up a leaflet from reception.

Do you advertise in the Focus? Here are our new advertising guidelines for advertisers. Full page: 122.7x184.6mm 1/2 page: 122.7x91.6mm

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

lenhamfocus.co.uk 63

Last months crossword solution Last months winner was Jo Llong of Lenham.

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

Lenham Surgery Tel: 858341 Mondays to Fridays 8:30am-6:30pm Closed 1-2pm Dispensary 8:30am-6:30pm Closed 12:30-2pm Urgent matters out of hours telephone. 0845 1450121 (6-6.30pm only) IC24. 111 (from 6.30pm) 64

Advertisers

The Hope Ball 2014 th

Saturday 18 October 2014 7pm at The Mecure Hotel, Hollingbourne Charity Ball to raise money for a larger project to provide play for children in hospital Drinks reception ***Three course set meal with half a bottle of wine***guest speaker (Bob ‘the Cat’ Bevan)***raffle and auction***live music from local band ***£45.00 per head For further information and to purchase/reserve tickets contact Claire Webb on 07727274288/emiliaslittleheart@gmail.com

registered charity:1145863 65

07719061882

Visit lenhamfocus.co.uk Follow us @lenhamfocus

Success comes from working together.

Networking is about . . . making your life better.

This is what a member said about Lenham Valley Business Association: “I have only limited and specific local business interests but joined LVBA about two years ago because I wanted to encourage local networking initiatives and found that I was making some very useful professional contacts at the Lenham meetings - let’s call it the ‘small world’ or ‘you never know’ factor. Alan Reading does an exceptionally good job of animating the meetings and deserves to be encouraged.” James Myers, Lenham-based publisher, author and project consultant.

As always we have somegreat speakers lined up for you, see below for who, when and where (you can attend up to two presentations without commitment to LVBA: • Tuesday 2 September at The Dog & Bear, Lenham. Our speaker is Deborah Turner from You - Image Consultancy, (right) telling us we only get 7 seconds to make a first impression. • Tuesday 7 October at The White Horse, Sandway. Speaker Claire Bridger (below right), Business Development, Mid Kent College. • Tuesday 4 November at The Holiday Inn. • Tuesday 2 December joint networking with South Maidstone Business Association at Chilston Park Hotel, Sandway, Lenham. Speaker organised, more information will be released soon. LVBA member or not you can come along for free, you just have to register online or phone 01622 820841 2015 is just a few months away. We will meet the first Tuesday of each month, except June. Make it a date and don’t miss out.

. t i e k i l t h g i m t s u j Try it - you New members and one off visitors welcome or you can try it out for free we are sure you’ll like networking with LVBA. Please register on our website, on the online registration page. Events are organised and presented by Alan Reading who has been networking from before it was called networking! Keep up to date (& to join) www.lenhambusiness.co.uk or call 01622 820841

Advertisers

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. 67 Every 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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Out of Townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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

Beautiful Homes In Your Area Call Us Now To Arrange Your Viewing Or Free Marketing Consultation Templetree House, Sandway Road, Harrietsham, ME17 1HT Imposing Six Bedroom Edwardian Residence Overall Plot In Excess Of Three Acres Five Reception Rooms Plus Conservatory 32ft Heated Swimming Pool With Electronic Cover Landscaped Formal Gardens Separate Two Bedroom Detached Annexe Energy Efficiency Rating B (D for Annexe) Offers In Excess Of £1,650,000

• • • • • • •

Malt Cottage, Upper Street, Hollingbourne, Kent, ME17 1UW • • • • • • •

Three Bedroom Detached Period Home Double Fronted With Wealth Of Character Features Two Reception Rooms Well Fitted Kitchen/Family Room 100ft Mature Rear Garden No Onward Chain Energy Efficiency Rating D

£425,000

Rosendale, Forstal Road, Egerton, TN27 9EL • • • • • • •

Detached Three Bedroom Bungalow Fully Refurbished Throughout Off Road Parking New Kitchen & Bathroom New Combination Boiler Private Enclosed Garden Energy Efficiency Rating TBA

£309,995

47b West Street, Harrietsham, Kent, ME17 1HX • • • • • • • •

Modern Two Bedroom House End Of Terrace Ensuite To Master Bedroom Village Centre Location Car Port Solar Heating System Conservatory Energy Efficiency Rating B

£239,995

t: 01622 858241 a: 1 The Square, Lenham e: homes@philipjarvis.co.uk w: philipjarvis.co.uk