village directory
The 94
April 2017 Delivered FREE to 4,000 homes in TN27 by Royal Mail
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01233 739030 registrar@ashfordschool.co.uk Adventurous Learning
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QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS
Template.qxd Before 07/12/2009 Template.qxd 07/12/2009
The simple way to a new kitchen 11:42 11:42
Page Page 11
EST.
1999
• From a simple door swap to a complete kitchen refit • Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps • Installed by local skilled tradesman • Free planning & design service
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01797 227400
www.dreamdoors.co.uk
®
Visit our showroom: 48 Cinque Ports Street, Rye, TN31 7AN
In In South South East East Kent Kent there there is is only only one one company company to to turn turn to to for for your your double double glazing glazing and and conservatory conservatory requirements requirements “ ” • • Windows A Rated Windows • Windows • • Conservatories Conservatories Conservatories • ••Doors Doors Doors & Facia • ••Soffits Soffi & Soffits ts & Facias Facias • •Door Canopies WEATHERMAN HOME WEATHERMANWINDOWS HOME IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS WEATHERMAN LIMITED
15 Bank Street, Ashford, Kent TN23 1DE 15 & Bank Street, Ashford, Kent Kent TN23TN23 1DE 1DE 13 15 Bank Street, Ashford,
Established 1985
TEL: TEL:01233 01233643242 643242 www.weathermanhome.co.uk www.weathermanwindows.co.uk www.weathermanhome.co.uk 2
Welcome Hi everyone welcome to the April edition. Spring is sprung, the grass is riz, I wonder where the birdies is. The bird is on the wing, no, that’s absurd, the wing is on the bird! My dad used to recite this poem (often) while I was growing up, now when the first signs of spring appear it’s the first thing that pops into my mind. The next thing that comes to mind is “What will we do this year to make the most of the great outdoors, and at the same time create some great memories? Although Easter is on the way, it’s still very early to count on the weather, but as soon as the sun shines I’ll be out there lapping it up. Last year we invested in a gas BBQ for a big family get together. We couldn’t wait to try it out, so we arranged for my brother and sisterin-law to help us! We had a drink or two while the food cooked, then we ate until we were full and turned the BBQ off. An hour or so later we felt peckish again, so we turned the BBQ back on and did the same again. Then even later still, the BBQ was turned on yet again. It was then that I fully understood the advantage of a gas BBQ, the ability to turn it on at a moment’s notice and immediately prepare your food (if there’s any left!). What was planned as a BBQ practice run turned into a 12 hour BBQ Marathon. Needless to say we all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves! If the weather allows, I know what I’ll be doing this Easter weekend! Keep your fingers crossed for some great weather and have a wonderful Easter.
Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk May Issue Deadline 10th April 2017
N & E Window Cleaning Services Water-fed Pole / Traditional Window Cleaning Fascia / Gutter / Patio Cleaning / Solar Panels Please contact Nathan Turner for a free quote
07764 193492 n_eturnercleaning@yahoo.com
Bens Dog Walking Ser vices
Professional Pet Service in Ashford Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Vet Trips FULLY Insured & Police Checked Call 07794 744 612 www.bensdogwalkingservices.webs.com bensdogwalking@outlook.com
Oshens HairBoutique 100 Bridge Street, Wye
For An Appointment Please Call
01233 811981 Closed Wednesday
Man & Van
Collection & Deliveries / Rubbish Cleared Garden / Garage & House Clearance Reliable Service - Waste Carrier Licensed T: 01303 256142 / Mob:07872 904151 T: 01233 428096 M: 07941 830035 “We never make a mountain out of a molehill”
Mice • Rats • Squirrels • Moles • Rabbits • Wildlife Control Foxes • Bees • Wasps • Magpies • Pigeons • Domestic Insects Free Estimates & Advice www.countrywayspestcontrol.co.uk
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Make positive life changes
• Life Changes • Confidence • Improved Relationships • Better Communication • Stress Management • Health & Wellbeing • Self-esteem • Overcome Fears, Phobias & Traumas Yvonne Fernando Certified NLP Master Practitioner & Life Coach T : 01233 878474 M: 07968 785714 www.yvonnefernandonlp.co.uk
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Flower Power by Pippa Greenwood
Blooming Hollyhock Flower
You can grow a huge range of flowers from seed at home. It’s amazingly inexpensive and surprisingly easy too. If you’re after some long-term residents for your flower borders then rather than paying several pounds for each and every plant you buy, why not be a bit more adventurous and grow your own from seed? Just about every perennial flower - that’s those that last for years and don’t have to be replaced on an annual basis - is available to grow from seed, and although you’ll have to wait until the plants have put on plenty of growth before they start to perform, once they have reached flowering size, they’ll just keep on and on performing! There are lots to choose from, including lupins, silene, Echinaceae, geranium, perennial poppies, delphiniums, gaillardia, hollyhocks, rudbeckia and salvia. Pay a visit to your local garden centre or study the pages of some seed catalogues and start plotting and planning what you’d like; you could save
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yourself a fortune, and all from a packet or two of seed. To get started, all you need are some containers into which you can sow the seed – I like to use half-sized seed trays, RootTrainers or smaller individual cells. You will also need some good quality compost and your chosen seeds. The job will be all the easier and better if you have something to tamp down the compost too, plus labels, a permanent marker, a dibber and some vermiculite (for covering seeds that need some light to germinate well). Compost often has a fair number of lumps in it, so sieving it through a compost sieve (which has much larger holes than a kitchen sieve) will allow you to remove the larger lumps, leaving fine compost perfect for seed sowing. If you sieve it straight into the pots, cells or trays, make sure you collect up any that falls on the surface below. Once the compost is in the
tray or pot, firm it down so that there are no large gaps beneath the surface, as you don’t want subsidence later on. Levelling it off will make it easier to ensure the seeds are all sown evenly and at the same depth. You can make your own tamper using a piece of wood with a small block of wood nailed to it to make a ‘handle’. When it comes to sowing the seed, it is worth remembering that it is easier to look after the seedlings later on if the seed has been sown in rows, rather than randomly scattered. Straight rows are easily made using a plastic plant label. Check the seed packets for the precise depths at which the seed needs to be sown as this will differ from variety to variety. If you are sowing seeds in small cells then it is easier to make the holes using a dibber. If you don’t have one, a pencil works perfectly well! RootTrainers are particularly useful for larger seeds such as sunflowers. Sowing the
The Garden seed thinly along the drills in a seed tray makes life easier later on. Sown too densely, the seedlings that emerge will need more thinning out, and will be more likely to become drawn, leggy and weak, whereas given a bit more space they tend to be a lot sturdier. Once in place, just cover the seed with compost. If you are sowing larger seed into cells, just pop the seeds in to the prepared holes and cover to the required depth. The ideal sowing depth will be stated on the seed packet – it is not too exact a science, but it is best to get it about right! When all the seeds are sown, use a watering can with the rose attached to water the compost thoroughly. If the seed sown was quite small
then it is best to water the compost by standing the tray in a shallow tray or bowl of water, and allow the compost to absorb the water from below – this way the seeds are less likely to be displaced. Finally, don’t forget to label your seed trays clearly, ideally with a permanent marker. You may think you’ll remember what is in each tray, but seedlings don’t always resemble the full-grown plants that closely. Many perennials need heat for the seed to germinate reliably. Put the trays, pots or cells into a propagator, standing each on moist capillary matting. Once the seedlings appear, gradually lower the temperature and then prick each one out into its own pot. Allow them to
grow on, keeping them fed and watered as necessary. In just a few weeks or months you can have some great plants ready for the garden. Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com to buy gorgeous UK grown vegetable plants accompanied by weekly advice emails from Pippa, or to peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls for leather jackets, vine weevils and other pests, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.
Open Weekend Dates for 2017 PLUCKLEY ROAD BETHERSDEN KENT
www.stonegreennurseries.co.uk Wholesale Nursery Open to the Public
14th, 15th, 16th & 17th April We grow our vast range of plants with passion and pride for garden designers, landscapers, local nurseries, farm shops and other horticulture outlets. We have a truly exquisite range to offer you from the tried and tested to the more unusual. You will be making your selection direct from our growing beds! You can’t buy fresher. Fantastic range and fair prices. Should you need help with your selection we also have knowledgeable staff to help answer your questions.
*Shrubs* Trees* Herbaceous Perennials * Climbers * Large Plants for Instant Impact*
Future Open Weekends 28th April - 1st May 12th, 13th, 14th May 2nd, 3rd, 4th June More Dates to Follow.
Truly a Gardeners Paradise! Please remember we are only open on these dates. We accept most major credit cards
For detailed directions please see our website Follow day-glow signs from A20 at Charing and A28 at Bethersden
Pluckley Road Bethersden TN26 3ET 5
KILBYS PEST CONTROL • All Rodents and Insects • WASP NEST SPECIALIST • SAME DAY SERVICE
• 7 days a week • Fully Insured • Est 1983
01233 840948
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www.mr-hills-trees.co.uk
All Tree & Hedge Work Hard & Soft Landscaping All Aspects of Gardening
Professional Garden & Grounds Maintenance Country Estate Maintenance Paddock Maintenance: Mowing, Hedge Cutting, Spraying Wildflower Meadows Planting Plans & Garden Design Hard & Soft Landscaping Pond Renovation, Clearance & Maintenance Professionally trained & qualified 20+ Years of industry experience Call for a free quote today
Vernon Harris Bsc Hort M: 07563 580 775 O: 01233 770668 E: vern@bghorticulture.co.uk www.bghorticulture.co.uk
07756007428
Experienced, NPTC qualified & insured Reliable, local, affordable & efficient Quality service & friendly advice Book your free, no obligation quote today!
T: 01233 840267 M: 07812 197655
KILBYS CHIMNEY SWEEP
• Pots/Cowls/Birdguards Fitted Brush and Vac • Certificates Issued • Fully Insured • ICS Registered • Family Run, Est 1983
01233 840948 07756007428
chartfencing.co.uk
Order online via our secure website
01233 626 188
Call today for a free brochure
All your Fencing Needs and More..
Garden Fencing
Sheds & Decking
Chart Fencing is your one-stop shop for all things fencing. We’ve got the lot, including a massive range of fixings & ironmongery.
Stock Fencing
Driveway Gates
Garden Fencing
Ironmongery
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Decking
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Driveway Gates
Ashford Showroom Open Mon to Fri 7.30 - 5.00pm. Sat 8.30 - 12.00pm. Chart House, Dencora Way. Ashford TN23 4FH
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The Garden
Piers Quinn Fencing and Clearance Contractor
All Seasons Garden Services
Over 20 years experience All aspects of garden care undertaken Fully insured
T: 01233 665322 M: 07941 205 374 Email: rob@ashford-gardening.co.uk
T: 07850 227050 E: piersquinn@icloud.com
T: 07776 453886
Lawn Care Turfing Garden Maintenance Hedges/ Borders
allengardensolutions@btinternet.com
Open To the Public
We are open: Mon to Fri 8:00 to 5:30 Sat 8:00 to 12:30
Looking for a New Lawnmower, Strimmer, Hedge Cutter or Chainsaw this Spring? Then come to Haynes Agricultural and see our range of Husqvarna machines, from Rechargeable hand helds to Petrol Powered ride-ons, and everything in between. Our Range includes: • Petrol Walk behind mowers • Ride Ons • Strimmer's, Hedge Cutters, Chainsaws and Blowers • Full Range of Rechargable products Call or Drop in, We are in Old Surrenden Manor Road, Great Chart TN26 1JJ
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For all your fencing needs ... Woodchurch Fencing are a family run business and offer a friendly and reliable service. We aim to cover all our customers' needs whether it be fencing repairs or a new installation. We pride ourselves on our high quality workmanship and attention to detail and only use the best quality materials. We have an excellent local reputation and will continue to provide a consistent level of service to all our clients, old and new. We aim to leave our customers not just feeling that they have had a product erected or installed, but that they have received a highly professional service with a very personal touch. Owner, Timothy Thomson, started the business when he looked to move away and diversify from Agriculture. Tim has over ten years experience in fencing and is also a farmers son and, as such, has been involved in all types of agriculture and equestrian fencing all his life. We offer a full range of fencing services throughout Kent and the South-East for
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Garden, Agricultural, Equestrian, Gates and Security. Additional services we can provide include chicken runs, pheasant pens, dog kennels and other animal runs. So whether you are looking to install a new gate or you want to secure your property/premises with a sturdy fence, we're here to help.
Top quality materials. Top quality service. Supply + Install. FREE QUOTATIONS. T : 01233 877 521 | M : 07710 179 600 enquiries@woodchurchfencing.co.uk www.woodchurchfencing.co.uk
The Garden
CONSERVATORY REPAIRS RESOLVING LEAKS, REPAIRS, CLEANING & MAINTAINING
M & C Conservatory Maintenance ‘Restoring Perfection to Your Conservatory’
01233 349 012 www.mcconservatories.co.uk 07496542362
• Cleaning • Maintenance & Repairs • Leadwork & Guttering • New Roofs • Misted/Broken Down Glass Units • Painting & Varnishing • Fully Insured
For a Free Quote Please Call
012 3 3 50 0719 / 07 8 3 0 0 6 9 9 91 Patios Footpaths • Artificial Grass • Patios Driveways • Footpaths Driveway Repairs • Driveways • Driveway Repairs • Block Paving Block Paving Driveway Extensions • Driveway Extensions • Car Parks Car Parks Concrete Pads • Sports Courts • Concrete Pads Sports Courts Groundwork • Groundwork • Fencing Patios Fencing Footpaths t: 01233 349 012 m: 07496 542362 Artificial Grass Driveways Driveway www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co.uk Repairs
01233 349 012 07496542362
Block Paving Car Parks Sports Courts Fencing Artificial Grass
Driveway Extensions
www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co Concrete Pads
STANFORD Conservatory Groundwork & Building COMPANY
www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co.uk www.stanfordconservatories.co.uk All Work Fully Insured Start & Completion Times Guaranteed
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Conservatories - Advice, design & CAD Paths, patios, driveways, block or paving Decking and Car Ports General building & renovations General Maintenance & Repairs
e: stanfordconservatories@gmail.com
01303 812889 • 07710 077711 9
Home & Interiors Refresh Your Home For Spring away; don’t let worn out, unusable and unnecessary items take up much-needed space. Let go of them and you’re bound to feel better: it’s like therapy for your interior.
As our gardens start to grow and blossom fills the trees, it’s time to think about refreshing and reenergising our homes ready for a stylish spring. Clear the clutter There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned tidy up to make your home feel re-booted. Heavy winter duvets, furry throws and cable-knit hot water bottles can all be stored out of the way, while at the same time this is a good opportunity to go through shelves and cupboards and get rid of anything you no longer need. Give it to charity, hold a car boot sale, sell it in on Ebay – whatever works best. If it’s broken, mend it or throw it
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Clean house Now that you have lots of lovely clear space, you will probably notice that some of your house could do with an extra-special deep clean. How good will you feel when you have washed down your front door, wiped all your shelves and light fittings, shampooed your rugs, washed your loose covers and curtains and taken your duvets to the launderette? To say nothing of cleaning your mirrors and windows – there’s nothing like a bit of scrunched-up newspaper and white vinegar for giving them a wonderful sparkle. Have a brush with paint Take a long hard look at your paintwork. Be honest: has some of it seen better days? Perhaps windows need sanding and repainting, or door frames need touch-ups where they’ve had knocks and bashes over the years? Or maybe a whole room could do with a makeover? You simply can’t beat the spick-andspan look of a newly painted space; it’s a relatively quick and inexpensive DIY job that creates
By Katherine Sorrell an overall impression going above and beyond the effort involved. Introduce colour Now’s the time to ditch dark, heavy and gloomy winter shades and get fresh with spring-like colour. Yellow, blue and green are all traditionally associated with spring – and it just so happens that Pantone’s colour of the year is gorgeous ‘Greenery’, described as ‘a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew’. Use liberally with plenty of bright white for a really clean, fresh look for the season. Include a dash of pattern Your clean, clear backdrop of pale spring colours is perfect for adding pops of pattern to make an impact. Chevrons are still having a moment, as are triangles and geometrics in general (especially if they have a tribal feel), as well as tropicals, textures (think chunky knits or grassy weaves), graphic botanicals such as ferns and leaves and the natural patterns of marble and stone. Up your game with accessories Out with the old and in with the new: replace accessories that have seen better days with
The Home summer…
Add some scent We all want a beautifully scented home – but instead of artificial air fresheners, whether spray or plugin, use scented candles, avoiding paraffin-based ones in favour of natural wax. Alternatively, try reed diffusers with essential oils, or simply arrange locally sourced, scented flowers (the ones imported from abroad don’t tend to smell so good). And one last thing – if possible, try to dry your laundry in the sunshine outdoors – you just can’t beat that beautiful fresh smell.
Left Bottom: Ceramic door knob with gold-painted edge, £4.99: Ian Snow, 01271 858649; iansnow. com.
www.stellineinteriors.com
on-trend items such as cushions and throws, duvet covers, vases, prints, small storage containers, mirrors, clocks, table lamps and plants (quick tip: grab a succulent, a cactus or an air plant for fashion-forward houseplant style). You really don’t have to spend a fortune to overhaul your look dramatically.
Image Top Left: Artificial bulb jar £5; faceted vase (set of three) £12; short botanic herb jug £12 (small) and £25 (large); green glass tea light holder £5 (large) and £4 (small); fern glass tea light holder £10.50: all from The Contemporary Home, 02392 469400; tch.net.
Bring the outdoors in Now the warmer weather is here, open the windows as much as possible, and get some air circulating around your home. It might even be warm enough to sit outside in a patch of sunshine – so think about pressure washing your patio, scrubbing up your barbecue and cleaning down your outdoor furniture ready for some outdoor entertaining. After all, it’s not that long until
Above: Scandinavian cushion cover in tile print green, £15.50: Andshine, 07765 530607; andshine.co.uk.
Units 3 & 4 Kingfisher Business Centre Henwood Industrial Estate Ashford, Kent. TN24 8DH
Tel: 01233 647699 Call in NOW for some amazing appliance bargains
E: sales@stellineinteriors.co.uk
Live in luxury with a new kitchen from Stelline Interiors. With virtually unlimited styles and finishes to choose from, there’s sure to be something to suit your taste and budget. 11
Quality, Made to Measure Blinds at Affordable Prices FREE HOME DESIGN SERVICE
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We Also Sell Curtains & Awnings For more information or to book an appointment
Call: 01233 226570
E: info@jlsblinds.co.uk W: www.jlsblinds.co.uk
From start to finish we offer a complete, professional package to suit your very own requirements and budget.
• • • •
KITCHEN FITTING BATHROOM FITTING BEDROOM FITTING DECORATING
• •
GENERAL BUILDING WORKS FLATPACK FURNITURE ASSEMBLY
Call Tony: 07979 220224 / 01233 610402 e: info@thornbys.co.uk www.thornbys.co.uk 12
The Home Designer kitchens without the designer price tags! Email: info@aloninteriors.co.uk Website: www.aloninteriors.co.uk
Now offering interest free credit* Terms and conditions apply*
Head Office & Showroom: Alon Interiors 785 London Road Larkfield ME20 6DE Tel:01732 843900
By Appointment Only: Alon Interiors Cobbs Wood Ind Estate Ashford TN23 1EJ
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Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Book a talk about our life-saving work
The Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance is inviting local groups, clubs, societies and other organisations to book a talk (free of charge) to find out more about the work of the charity. By inviting one of our volunteer speakers to your group, you will be helping to raise awareness of our work and therefore ensuring we can be there for those who need us, now and in the future.
For more information or to book a talk, please contact us on:
01622 833 833 talks@kssairambulance.org.uk Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust Registered Charity No. 1021367 ¡ A Company Limited by Guarantee ¡ Registered in England & Wales No. 2803242
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01622 833 833 kssairambulance.org.uk info@kssairambulance.org.uk
Solid Style
Repairs to... Washing Machines Cookers (Electric) Tumble Driers Dyson Vacuum Specialist
Joinery Manufacturer • Listed Building &
Garry on 07958 640152 The Call Flooring Specialists 01233 632329
omers 0 by our cust
d 9.9 out of 1 Proudly rate
Conservation Work
• Doors & Windows • Mouldings & Repair Sections • Replacement Sashes & Casements
• Garage Doors • Equestrian Joinery T: 01233 731183 • Free Estimates E: solidjoinery@aol.com
SHOWROOM
at the top of Charing Hill, TN27 0NL 01233 714999 charingcarpets.co.uk beautiful flowers & hops for all occasions
Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Chalkpit Farm Rural Shopping, Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury CT4 5EU Email: shop@essentiallyhops.co.uk Tel 01227 830666
www.hopsandflowers.co.uk
HOMEFRESH CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Winter Special Offer 50% DISCOUNT
Also available SPECIALIST FABRIC TREATMENT STAINSHIELD - Protects against dirt and spills DEODORISING TREATMENT - leaves fabric smelling fresh ANTI ALLERGY TREATMENT - for asthma & allergy sufferers CONDITIONER - re-texturises your fabric
FREEPHONE 0800 6942024
Office Hours: 9am - 7pm (Saturday 10am - 1pm)
CARPETS (Average) Normal Rate SPECIAL RATE Single Room (12’ x 12’) £52 £26 Through Room (12’ x 18’) £66 £33 Hall, Stairs & Landing £66 £33 UPHOLSTERY 3 Piece Suite Leather 3 Piece Suite
£94 £156
£47 £78
CURTAINS Full Length £84 £42 Half Length £52 £26 NO HIDDEN EXTRAS - All prices inclusive of VAT 15
Cake and Bake Chocolate & Orange Hot Cross Buns
Give the classic hot cross bun a delicious twist with the addition of chocolate chips, orange zest and piped chocolate crosses!
Ingredients:
1. Sift the flour into a large bowl and stir in the salt, mixed spice, orange zest,
• 500g strong white plain flour, plus extra for dusting
2. Bring the milk almost to the boil in a small pan then stir in the butter until
sugar and dried yeast. Make a well in the middle.
melted. Leave the liquid to cool until it’s just hand hot. Pour the liquid into the well with the beaten egg and mix with a round- bladed knife to make a soft and slightly sticky dough. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
• 1/2 tsp salt • 2 tsp ground mixed spice • Zest of 1 orange
3. Place the dough in a clean, lightly greased bowl and cover with oiled cling film. Leave the bowl in a warm place for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
• 50g caster sugar • 1 x 7g sachet easyblend or fast-action dried yeast
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, flatten out with the
palms of your hands and scatter over the dried fruit and chocolate chips. Fold and knead the dough until the fruit and chocolate chips are incorporated. Divide and shape the dough into 12 even-sized buns and place on a large greased baking sheet.
• 300ml hand-hot milk • 55g butter, cubed • 1 large egg, beaten
5. Cover loosely with oiled cling film and leave in a warm place until the
buns have risen by at least half again and are almost touching each other - this will take about 45-60 minutes. Preheat the oven to 200C, 180C fan, Gas Mark 6.
• 75g dried mixed fruit • 50g dark chocolate chips
FOR THE GLAZE AND CROSSES • 1-2 tbsp warmed golden syrup • 50g dark chocolate, melted
Makes 12 Ready in 2 hours, 45 minutes 16
6. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until risen and
golden brown. Leave on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack. Brush with the warmed golden syrup whilst the buns are still warm.
7. When the buns are cold, spoon the melted chocolate into a small
disposable piping bag, snip off the end and pipe a cross on each bun. Leave until set then serve.
TIP
These buns are best eaten on day they’re made, but if you have some left over the next day simply split and toast and serve with butter or chocolate spread.
Food & Domestic Services Domestic Cleaning We Clean So You Don’t Have To!
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In Season: Fruit Apples Pears Rhubarb
Vegetables Asparagus Broccoli Cabbage
April
Cauliflower Chicory Greens Kale Rocket Swede Sorrel Turnips Winter Greens
John Dory Mackerel Plaice Salmon Sea Bass Sea Trout
Salad Lettuce
Fish Cockles Cod Crab Halibut Herring
Guinea fowl Hare Lamb Mutton Pork Rabbit Veal Venison Wood Pigeon
Meat & Game Beef
SILCOCKS FARM
SHOP * BUTCHERS * CAFÉ All Our Meat Comes from Animals Born & Bred on Our Farm. FROM OUR FARM TO YOUR PLATE
Grange Road, St Michaels, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6TL
IN THE LOVELY KENT COUNTRYSIDE ®
TRADITIONAL HEREFORD BEEF ROMNEY & DORSET LAMB GLOUCESTER OLD SPOT PORK Bacon, Sausages, Burgers, Pies
FROM OUR DAIRY MILK- CREAM CLOTTED CREAM ICE CREAMS *DELICIOUS CHEESES*
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email: silcocksfarmshop@outlook.com
Tel: 01580 763 351 www.silcocksfarm-organics.co.uk
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Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Serves 4
Ready in 1 hour 10 minutes
This recipe is a great way to turn chicken fillets into something special. You can prepare them a couple of hours in advance and keep covered in the fridge, then simply cook when needed.
Ingredients: • 75g ricotta cheese • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves • 2 tsp finely grated lemon zest • 4 large skinless chicken breast fillets • 12 thin-cut rashers streaky bacon • 5 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar • 1tsp Dijon mustard • Pinch of sugar • 100g baby spinach leaves • 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
TIP
Instead of ricotta you could use low-fat soft cheese such as Philadelphia or a mild and creamy goats’ cheese.
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Use a sharp knife to make a deep pocket in each chicken fillet, making sure not to cut right the way through. Place the ricotta cheese in a bowl and stir in the thyme leaves and the lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place one-quarter of the ricotta mixture in the pocket of each chicken fillet. Use the back of a knife to stretch the bacon rashers. Wrap 3 rashers around each chicken fillet and secure with a metal skewer. Preheat the oven to 180C, 160C Fan, Gas Mark 4. Heat 1tbsp of the oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken fillets over high heat for 2-3 minutes until the bacon is browned, turning once. Transfer to a roasting tin and cook for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Cover and leave in a warm place to rest for 10 minutes. To make the dressing, whisk the remaining oil with the vinegar, mustard and sugar in a small jug and season to taste. Slice each chicken fillet into 6 pieces and arrange on the salad leaves. Scatter over the toasted pine nuts and spoon over the dressing. Serve immediately.
Food & Domestic Services
Local Markets Local Food For Local People Wye Farmers Market is held around The Green in the centre of Wye, 1st & 3rd Sat of the month, 9am till noon. We have 20 stalls at our market, selling fresh, healthy food and hand-made gifts, all produced within 30 miles of Wye.
www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk marketmanager@wyefarmersmarket.co.uk
Ashford Farmer’s Market First Sunday of every month from 10am to 2pm in the lower High Street. Charing Farmer’s Market Charing Church Barn 9 -11.30 every Thursday morning. Contact 01233 740176 Egerton Every Friday 2 - 4.30pm Millennium Hall Rolvenden - 01580 240763 Every Thursday 10am -12 noon St Mary’s Church and the Village Hall Rye Farmers Market Every Wednesday at Strand Quay 10am - 1 pm (From Midday Oct - April) Rye Market Every Thursday at the Cattle Market Car Park. Early till around 3pm (depending on the weather)
Rye Country Market Formerly WI Market Rye Community Centre, Conduit Hill. Every Friday 10am -11.30am
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Tenterden Country Market Every Friday 9.30am -11.00am St Mildred’s Church Hall, Church road. Tenterden High Street Market Friday’s – 0830 – 1400 Wittersham Market Every Tuesday Village Hall 9am. - 11am Tel: 01797 270757 Wye First and third Saturday of every month on the Village Green in Wye. Tel: 07804 652156 www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk
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L i v e Ja z z 2016/17
T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b At T h e To we r To B o o k C a l l : 0 1 3 0 3 2 7 7 1 7 5 All gigs start at 8pm ~ All gigs £12 admission Seat Bookings 01303 277175 Email twinklewood@btinternet.com Info on website www.towertheatrefolkestone. co.uk THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ April 4th / £12 The Music of Oscar Peterson By this award winning Quartet THE CRAIG MILVERTON QUARTET April 13th / £12 From The Ronnie Scott Orchestra GEORGINA JACKSON & PETE LONG With THE CHRIS INGHAM TRIO April 20th / £12 The Great Music of JJ & K GORDON CAMPBELL & ROBBIE HARVEY QUINTET April 27th / £12 The song’s & music of Al Jolson from London’s West End JAZZIN’ JOLSON With an ALL STAR CAST May 2nd / £12
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W h a t’s O n Boldshaves Gardens, Woodchurch - open for the 2017 season from Thursday 6th April, and then every weekday Monday - Friday, 2-6pm, until Friday 13th October. See www.boldshaves. co.uk for further information.’ Tenterden & District Horticultural Society. Friday 7th April “Growing and showing hardy fuchsias” by Mr Derek Dexter at St Mildred’s Church Hall, Tenterden at 7.30pm. Derek will demonstrate how to grow fuchsias successfully, from cuttings to flowing plants. Fuchsia plants will also be available to purchase. SEWING ROOM SALE Saturday 8th April 10am - 12noon Victory Hall Hamstreet Sale of unwanted fabrics, wools, trimmings and craft pieces. Turn out your excess pieces and buy some more! 01233 732684 Little Chart Spring Flower Show will be held Saturday 8th April in the Parish Hall at 3pm . Entries welcome . Schedules available from Julie Lilwall at julielilwall@hotmail.uk [for setting up times see schedule] . Come along and enjoy the show even if you do not wish to make entries. Spiritualist Meetings held every Saturday evening, at Highbury Hall. Highbury Lane. Tenterden. TN30 6LE. 6.30pm start, doors open by 6pm, April 8th - Jill Larking, Auragraph readings, £5. April 15th - Stephen Morrell. Donations. April 22nd - Mary Ward. £4. April 29th - Barbara Almond. Donations. Refreshments, all are welcomed. Ashford Flower Club is hosting a floral art demonstration Tuesday 18th April by Helen Hare entitled ‘East to West’. It takes place at Furley Hall, Maidstone Road, Ashford TN24 8TX, starting at 7.30pm. We welcome anyone interested in flower arranging - visitors tickets £3.00 at the door. The Weald of Kent Computer Club will meet on Wednesday 19th April in Biddenden New Village Hall at 7.30 pm. This evening Phil Birch from Highway Support will give a talk on “ Artificial Intelligence - how it affects YOU”. Annual membership is £10.00. Non-members are welcome at £2 a visit. Full details: http:// w w w. we a l d o f k e n tco m p u te rc l u b. co. u k / Enquiries: secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk
The Biddenden Horticultural Society meets on Wednesday 26th April in the New Village Hall (7:15pm for 7:30pm start) The topic this evening ‘English Gardening – The Start of the Art’. A talk given by Anna Parkinson on medicinal plants, their use past and present. We will also have our ‘Plant Swap’ – bring along a plant and take a different one home. Members fees are £2, Non Members £3. Annual membership £5. New members always welcome. Contact Irene on 01580 291777 or Lesley on 01580 291931. The Five Church Walk Monday 1st May. The walk starts at 10am from Chilham, Godmersham, Boughton Aluph, Challock or Molash church. You can start when and where you like. This is a sponsored walk in aid of the churches, Kent Air Ambulance and the Pilgrims Hospices. Funds raised are distributed according to your wishes. Those without sponsors are welcome and are asked to make a minimum donation of £5. The churches also have loos and homemade refreshments to offer while you take a welcome break. For more info or for entry and sponsorship forms, contact any of the churches, charities or go to www.thefivechurchwalk.co.uk or phone 01233 641913. Biddenden Flower Festival “Books in Bloom” Saturday 27th May - Monday 29th May 10am-5pm at All Saints Church Biddenden. Free Admission. Stunning floral displays, Refreshments, music. “Songs of Praise service 6pm Sun. Contact 01580291463 Woodchurch Art Society will be holding their popular annual Art Exhibition at the
Woodchurch Memorial Hall Friday 26th May 7 - 9pm, Saturday 27th May 10am -4pm and Sunday 28th 10am - 4pm. Over 200 paintings on display, artist in residence. Have a go Joe’ for the children, raffle, cards and tombola. Delicious home made cakes and refreshments. Everyone welcome, FREE ENTRY
WOODCHURCH BOOT FAIR Every first Sunday in the month from 9am until 12 noon at Woodchurch Scout & Guide Community Centre, Lower Road Woodchurch.
HAMSTREET BOOT FAIR First Sunday in the month April - December 9am - 12 noon Victory Hall/Field Food, Bargains, Toilets
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Clubs & Societies Considered Yoga for 2017 but thought you are not flexible enough? Good news! You are exactly who our classes are aimed at! Every Tuesday 6.30-8pm at Charter Hall, Smarden, Yoga & Relaxation Classes. Seated options are given for all poses, we use blocks & straps to ensure all poses are adapted to your own ability! Physically, we work on strength & flexibility. Mentally, we will work on stress & anxiety reduction using breathing techniques & meditation. £10 drop in or 6 weeks blocks at £8 per class. Feel free to come along or contact 07933 030071 THE GARDENING GROUP AT CHARING SURGERY. Get fresh air, exercise, meet other people, have fun and enjoy being part of the community. Open to all patients, age 16+. Green Fingers not essential. Tuesdays 9am-12pm. Call Jo’anne Munro on 01233 713582. Biddenden Junior Football Club - Always looking for new players 7 -18, for fun and enjoyable football. Contact Steve on 07958 447948. Biddenden Squash Club 01580 291130 Gordon Jones Playing Field, Biddenden. Friendly club with 2 courts and a bar. email: info@biddendensquash. co.uk www.biddendensquash.co.uk Biddenden Horticultural Society Annual membership £5. New members welcome. Contact Irene Orsborne on 01580 291777 or Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931. Egerton Over 60’s meet on the 2nd Monday of each month, we enjoy stimulating speakers, delicious teas in a relaxing atmosphere and meet new friends. Come and try us--just turn up at the Egerton Millennium Hall by 2pm, we’d love to see you.Bring your Zimmer frame, scooter or crutches you’ll receive help. Want to know more? Call 01233 712 282 or 756 294. Headcorn Modern Sequence Dance Club, meet every Monday 7.30 pm to 10.00 pm in the Andred Hall in Headcorn Village Hall. If you enjoy Ballroom dancing, bring your partner or 22
friend along and learn more. We are a friendly little club, nice music- social evening- tea and biscuits - all for £3.00 per person. Call Rita on 01580 852289. Kennington Badminton Club, play at the Norton Knatchbull School on a Wed evening from 7.30 p.m.-10.00 p.m. Contact Mark Feeney on 01233 663030 or Shirley Mountford on 01233 610134. Little Chart Bridge Club Friendly duplicate bridge every Tuesday afternoon at Little Chart Village Hall. For more information please contact Carmen Gunther on 01233 840 395. Smarden Heritage Centre Smarden Charter Hall, Smarden. Open every Friday morning from 9.30 – 11.30. visit: www.smardenheritagecentre. synthasite.com Smarden Short Mat Bowls Club We welcome new novice or experienced bowlers of all ages. We meet every Thurs. morning at 9.45am and occasionally on a weekday evening, in the Charter Hall Smarden. Contact Malcolm 01233 770572. The Roots Project Conservation Volunteers What we do: Regular practical conservation tasks and woodland craft workshops based in Longbeech Wood, Charing. Contact: Carrie Eeles (Activities Officer) Tel: 07920404546 Email: info@therootsproject.co.uk www.therootsprojectconservationvolunteers. org.uk Weald of Kent Computer Club meets in the New Biddenden Village Hall. Annual membership costs £10 and covers free admission to all 10 meetings. Non members are £2 per visit. New members welcome. Enquiries to:- secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk or visit:- www. wealdofkentcomputerclub.co.uk East Kent Morris Men and Women: Do you like dancing, drinking, socialising, music, having fun? Then why not try Morris Dancing? We are recruiting now for new members. This is a mixed side of women and men dancing together. Weekly Wednesday dance practices start again on September 21st 2016 at Mountbatten Hall, Mersham from 8pm to 10pm; afterwards we practise drinking in the pub opposite, the Farrier’s Arms! We dance Cotswold style Morris;
this is the handkerchief waving and stick clashing variety. No experience required. Why not give it a try? Find us on Facebook or call John on 01233 625 362 Weald U3A is a society for the dynamic over 50s with a thirst for knowledge, social activities and new experiences. We have a large number of interest groups including Bridge, Films, Italian, jazz, Stargazers, Lunches and Theatre Visits. Please see our website www.u3asites.org.uk/weald or contact Richard Sargent, tel: 01580764239, email: r.sargent@btinternet.com Tenterden Camera Club - A chance for members and guests to meet socially and discuss photography, exchange ideas, tips and problems. We have an informal “Snap Chat” meeting at 7.30pm in the William Caxton on Tenterden High St on the first Monday of each month to discuss photographic issues. There is no charge and all are welcome - just buy yourself a drink... We also meet fortnightly (2nd Thursday & 4th Wednesday each month) in the upstairs meeting room at the Zion Baptist Church, Bridewell Lane in Tenterden. Every month we have a fun project or theme
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Hobbies The Sky’s No Limit For Amateur Photographers By Kate McLelland Ever since the BBC launched its ‘Weather Watchers’ feature in November 2015, the work of the UK’s amateur photographers has enjoyed unparalleled public exposure, with images contributed by keen volunteers appearing on our TV screens morning, noon and night.
a step further, using different techniques and technologies to create even better images. If this sounds like you, you might consider taking up photography as a hobby.
According to the BBC’s Head of Weather, Liz Howell, the goal of Weather Watchers – launched as part of the BBC’s flagship Make it Digital initiative - was to create a new, crowdsourced weather club that would “enable people across the UK to help tell the story of the great British weather”. While it has definitely achieved that aim, it has also showcased the talent of Britain’s amateur photographers in an unexpected way.
Talent vs. technique While there are a number of tips you can follow to improve your photographic skills, nothing can really teach you how to capture a fantastic image. The camera may provide the means to take the shot, but the inspiration must come from you.
We’re all photographers now Since digital cameras were first introduced, our attitude towards photography has changed. Taking pictures nowadays requires little forethought or effort – simply point and shoot and in a few minutes your images can be shared with a worldwide audience. While the fluid, quick-fire nature of this kind of photography works well for many people, there are others who want to take their photographic work
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So what’s required to turn an interest in photography into a serious hobby?
You need creativity and imagination to take great photographs. Start by looking at the work of the world’s best photographers and you’ll begin to understand that an unforgettable image is not just the result of an interesting subject, great composition and good lighting: it’s the ability to use a visual medium to convey emotion and meaning. Talent is more important than technique, although there’s certainly no harm in providing yourself with skills and equipment that can make it easier to achieve those once-in-alifetime shots.
Which camera? When you start to shop for cameras, you may be confused by terms such as ‘SLR’ or ‘DSLR’ and ‘mirrorless cameras’. ‘SLR’ stands for ‘single lens reflex’. ‘DSLR’ is, of course, used for a digital single lens reflex camera. Both types use a mirror between the lens and the film (or digital image sensor), which means the image you see through the viewfinder or display screen is the same as the one that will appear on the final image. Mirrorless cameras (also known as compact system cameras) dispense with the mirror and viewfinder in order to keep the size and weight of the camera down. Other benefits include quiet operation and ease of handling. There are many, many websites available to guide you towards the best purchase, including whatdigitalcamera.com and amateurphotographer.co.uk. If you are still finding it hard to make a decision after your research, you could drop into your local camera shop for some face-to-face advice. What subjects excite me? Before you stock up on expensive equipment, it may be helpful to decide on the kind of photography that really interests
you. Wildlife shots? Portraits of people? Urban and rural landscapes? Macro images? Once you’ve decided, you’ll be able to focus on the specific items of equipment you need – for example, would a tripod be useful for shooting in low light without flash? Will you need a telephoto lens for long distance shots? How about a wide-angle lens, for photographing a high building or an expansive landscape? Final finish You may also want to think about how your images will be used. Will you print them as hard copies and create a portfolio of your work, or maybe share them online, using an image hosting website such as Flikr? If you decide to go digital rather than use film, you will probably need to download some photo
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editing software. Just as a good darkroom technician can bring out the best from a negative, editing can make a big difference to a digital image. Most people think of image editing in terms of altering and manipulating photographs, but it’s also useful for basic tasks, such as cropping, lightening a dark image and correcting the colour balance. Photo editing software can be expensive, but don’t worry if you can’t afford products at the top end of the market. You can download free software such as GIMP, Paint.NET or Photoscape that perform most of the functions you’ll need, without adding to your budget.
online for sites that offer advice to beginners. Of course, it may be some time before you feel confident enough to share your work with a wider audience. Then it will be up to you whether you become a BBC Weather Watcher, an entrant for ‘Amateur Photographer of the Year’ or someone who simply loves to share their work with family and friends.
How do I learn? There are many ways to develop the skills you need. You could take an adult education course, join a local camera club, buy a ‘how to’ book or simply look
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Kid’s Corner
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Parenting Children’s Parties Balloon candles available from www.dotcomgiftshop.com
Keep the fun levels up and your stress levels down with our top party tips. OUTDOOR PARTIES Most kids love a treasure hunt, and it ties in well with a pirate, knights or princess party. You could leave a series of clues leading to one big stash of small prizes to split (chocolate coins tend to go down well). Or you could hide sweets, trinkets and other mini prizes around the garden. Just make sure you keep a few extras to hand, to avoid any tears. Once they’ve found the treasure, you could: • Have a water pistol fight. • Challenge the kids to an obstacle course. • Hold a mini-Olympics, complete with ‘real’ medals. • Set up a tin can alley, or a game of skittles. PARTIES FOR CRAFT-LOVING CHILDREN If your child loves nothing more than creating a new work of art, why not dedicate the party to ‘making stuff’? Depending on the age of the children, you could: • Make masks out of paper plates, feathers, stickers, glitter and so on. • Paint pots or trinket boxes. • Decorate plates or mugs with porcelain pens. • Raid the recycling box to make
robots, spaceships or monsters. Make sure you tell parents that the children will need old clothes or painting aprons. And bear in mind that paint may not have dried by the time the party finishes, so you’ll have to deliver the artwork at a later date. PARTIES FOR PRE-TEENS Pre-teens may prefer to head out somewhere with a couple of friends. If they do want a party though, you could: • Host a sleepover, complete with movie, popcorn and a chocolate fountain. • Hold a fashion show. Just raid some charity shops and let kids loose on the clothes with fabric pens, glitter and badges. • Have a disco party, with glow sticks, a glitter ball and a danceoff. PARTIES THAT LET YOU TAKE IT EASY If this all sounds like a bit too much work, you could turn to the professionals. From hiring a children’s entertainer to heading to a soft-play centre, there are plenty of options to choose from. And they’re often not as expensive as you might think. Some companies offer a full package including entertainment, food and a party bag, which can actually work out around the same price as you’d pay to buy it all yourself.
by Kate Duggan Alternatively, you could let your child choose two or three friends to take out for the day. Head to the zoo, trampoline park, cinema, theme park, or just out for a picnic. TOP TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PARTY: • Don’t invite too many people. A good rule of thumb is to only invite one or two more than the age of your child. So if your son is turning five, you might want to invite six or seven children. However, it is a very rough guide, as all children are different. • Consider how many children there are in the class or friendship group. Inviting 12 of the 14 girls in your daughter’s class could cause a lot of upset. • Don’t overwhelm your child. Younger children may struggle with lots of excited guests, loud music and bright lights. Try to create a safe, quiet space where they can retreat if they need to. • Don’t feel you have to spend a fortune. Often the simpler, cheaper parties are the ones that children love the best. • Rope in as many helpers as you can!
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Health
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
Wheezes and Sneezes: How to Tackle Hay Fever
Hay fever or seasonal allergies can be caused by the pollen of numerous trees, grasses or plants and it affects around 18 million people in the UK. DIAGNOSIS If you’re unsure it’s hay fever causing your symptoms, see your GP. They may refer you for an allergen test to determine whether you’re allergic to pollen or other organic material such as animal hair or dust mites. A skin prick test only tests for the most common allergens, so it may be inconclusive. Your skin is pricked and exposed to a tiny dose of allergen - it should react if you’re allergic. A blood test for the Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody, produced when you encounter pollen, may also be used. Symptoms Symptoms can range from mild to life-impacting: • itchy and/or runny nose • sneezing • irritated, itchy, watery eyes TREATING HAY FEVER How you treat your hay fever will depend on the type and severity of your symptoms. Research by Allergy UK in 2014 showed that 62% of sufferers found their current medication ineffective – yet they failed to seek better alternatives or didn’t use it properly (only 14% of steroid nasal spray users were using them
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correctly in the study).
relieve eye itchiness too.
Ask a pharmacist for advice on the right medication and alternatives if it’s ineffective. Ensure you follow doctor’s, pharmacist’s and manufacturer’s instructions carefully. See your GP if over the counter treatments aren’t working, or you develop sinus or ear infections.
Antihistamine nasal sprays relieve an itchy nose and reduce sneezing.
Oral Medications (Tablets and Liquids) Antihistamines block the action of histamine, a chemical triggered by allergen exposure, to reduce or stop your allergic reaction. They may not relieve a blocked nose but are usually effective against other symptoms. As a preventative, they work best if taken regularly and started in advance of high pollen count periods. They can also be taken as required when symptoms begin. Some older antihistamines (e.g. chlorpheniramine, known as Piriton) make you drowsy and can affect your ability to do your job or drive. However, most people now choose newer, non-sedating antihistamines (e.g. Loratadine). Steroids are only usually used short-term if other medications aren’t working or if your hay fever causes or aggravates asthma. They reduce symptoms by reducing inflammation. Nasal Sprays and Drops Decongestant nasal sprays unblock your nose but can cause rebound congestion after a few days, so only use them for occasional relief or as an additional treatment on days when symptoms are severe. Steroid nasal sprays or drops prevent and reduce inflammation in the nasal lining and can help
Eyedrops Antihistamine eyedrops reduce itchiness and watering. Inhalers and Injections If seasonal allergies cause or exacerbate asthma, you may be offered a steroid inhaler and/ or a ‘reliever’, such as salbutamol (‘Ventolin’). Injectable medications may sometimes be recommended if steroids aren’t adequate. Monoclonal antibody treatments (‘mabs’) such as Xolair block a substance involved in allergic reactions. Immunotherapy If your symptoms are persistent or severe, your doctor may suggest immunotherapy to progressively build allergen immunity. A specialist will gradually introduce your body to small amounts of allergen by injection or a sublingual tablet and monitor your reaction. Treatment is started three months before your trigger pollen season. PREVENTION Reduce pollen contact by avoiding drying washing outside, showering before bed and closing windows. You can check the Met Office pollen forecast at www. metoffice.gov.uk/health/public/ pollen-forecast For more information: AllergyUK: www.allergyuk.org; Helpline: 01322 619898
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Beauty British Beauty by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk
This month we’re celebrating British beauty brands, from boutique perfumers to global bestsellers. The founders of Scottish skincare brand Ishga include a beauty therapist, a scientist and a seaweed specialist. So it’s perhaps no surprise that Ishga products harness the power of organic seaweed to deliver noticeable, lasting results. Along with Hebridean seaweed, key ingredients include thistle oil, jojoba oil and aloe vera. Ishga products are a real pleasure to use and the brand has built up a devoted fan base (which includes me). You’ll find the Ishga range in a number of five-star spas across the UK, as well as online. If your skin has a tendency to feel dry and tight, try the Hebridean Marine Toner, £25. It’s really hydrating and packed with antioxidants; see www.ishga.co.uk. Bradford born Leighton Denny is probably best known for his nail varnishes. There are now 101 of them, in pretty much every colour you could want. But Leighton’s talent doesn’t stop there. His tanning products, lip colours
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and fragrances have attracted a league of fans in their own right. His perfume Light and Dark Lively, £43.50, beat numerous big brand top-sellers to be crowned Elle Magazine’s Readers’ Choice in the Fragrance Foundation UK awards last year. It’s a unisex fragrance that’s citrusy, woody and very wearable; see www.ld-boutique.com. Narynda Kumar first started experimenting with skincare when she developed stress-related dermatitis. Rather than resorting to steroid creams, she created a balm using the beeswax from hives in her garden. It was so successful that she made more for friends. As demand grew, Narynda decided to take the plunge and set up her own business. She created a range of skincare products using natural ingredients, such as beeswax, oat extracts and seed oils. To begin with, Narynda sold her skincare products at craft fairs and farmers’ markets, but they’re now available from online retailers such as notonthehighstreet.com and Love Lula, as well as from Narynda’s own website. Try the Day Cream, £17.50. It’s gentle enough for even sensitive skin, but powerful enough to give your skin a real boost; see www. narynda.com. Spanish-born Marina Barcenilla now lives in Glastonbury, where she’s been creating award winning
Health & Beauty fragrances for several years. One of her perfumes, India, was named Best New Independent Fragrance by the Fragrance Foundation UK. While I do like India, my favourite has to be Spring Rain, £70. With notes including bergamot mint, rosemary, geranium, rose, blood orange, lemon and Indian frankincense, it’s fresh, vibrant and unlike anything else on the market; see www. mbparfums.com.
Akamuti was launched by aromatherapist Lindsey Hedges back in 2003. Since then it’s developed a reputation for great quality, natural products. Everything is handcrafted, using ethically sourced sustainable ingredients, such as seed and nut oils, organic shea butter and essential oils. Every product I’ve tried feels really decadent – nourishing, soothing and a real joy to use. The Fragrant Tranquillity Bath Salts, £8.50, for instance, are a real treat at the end of a busy day. They leave skin feeling super soft, and smell divine; see www.akamuti.co.uk.
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Ashford Borough Council E-Billing Offers Savings and Rewards Fancy earning £500 for five minutes work? Well, who wouldn’t?! And that’s genuinely what we’re offering residents the chance of winning if they sign up to receive their council tax bill by email (known as e-billing) today. Every paper bill we send out by post costs us around 50p. These days many residents already adopt the practice of receiving electronic bills from utility companies or TV and broadband providers. So why not council tax bills too? E-billing saves us time, paper and money – not to mention the trees – and it helps to keep our
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council tax the lowest in the county. So we are asking residents to sign up to receive their council tax bill by email. If they do so before 30th April, we will enter them into a prize draw to win one of two prizes of £500. So by saving us 50p they may win £500. We have 4,500 households who have already signed up to e-billing and they will automatically be entered into the draw. That is already saving us £2,250 that can be spent on council services. But we have over 50,000 accounts so we hope many more people will sign up. Residents just need to visit www.ashford.gov. uk/ebilling and follow the instructions – terms and conditions are also included on the page. Cllr Neil Shorter, Ashford Borough Council’s portfolio holder for budget, finance and resource management, said: “E-billing is something we are all familiar with these days – indeed some service providers actually charge to send out paper bills. So we thought we
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Legal & Financial Services would offer a little incentive to get residents thinking about the saving that could be made by opting, in a just a few minutes, to receive their bill electronically. “Once they have looked at the council tax bills, and seen that Ashford sets the lowest council tax in Kent, of course, residents probably file the bills away and do not refer to them again, or even shred them. So we hope this reminds people of the steps they can take to help us be as lean as possible as an authority.” Cllr Callum Knowles, Ashford Borough Council’s portfolio holder for information, technology and communications, said: “We live in a digital world and so the council must embrace digital as a means to help us to deliver our services, aligning them to meet customer needs. We hope residents will remember that ashford.gov. uk is the council online. There’s no queueing, transactions are secure and information can be found faster. We can save residents time, they can make resources go further.”
• Family
• Charities
• Residential Conveyancing
• Civil Liberties
• Wills
• Complete Legal Care
• Probate
• Debt Recover y
• Trusts
• Employment
• Commercial Propert y
• Personal Injur y
• Court of Protection
• Professional Negligence
• Powers of Attorney
• Licensing
• Business Ser vices
• Mediation
Call: 01580 762248 Email: info@pengelly-rylands.co.uk www.pengelly-rylands.co.uk Visit: 39/41 High Street, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6BJ
COUNTY PROBATE SERVICES Easing the Financial Stress
The loss of a loved one can be an emotional and overwhelming experience. The extra burden of obtaining Probate can often prove daunting. Probate Probate has to be obtained in order to release the deceased person’s assets so that any Inheiritance Tax can be paid and the remainder of the estate distributed to beneficiaries, as directed by the deceased’s Will. If there is no Will then the estate will be distributed according to rules laid down by the Act of Parliament. Cost Beware of banks and solicitors who charge a fixed percentage of the value of the deceased’s estate; typically 3% or 4%. This can amount to £12,000 + VAT on a relatively modest estate of £300,000. We at County Probate Services would charge according to the time expended. In the example above the charge would be around £1,000 + VAT. CONTACT
01233 712112 - info@countyprobateservices.com 65 High Street, Charing, TN27 0LS
County Probate Services Limited is authorised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales to carry out the reserved legal activity of non-contentious probate in England & Wales
33
Puzzle Time
Word Ladder
Sudoku Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition! That’s all there is to it, you solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic there’s no maths involved and no adding up. It’s fun. It’s challenging. It’s addictive!
Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.
F I R E
©Puzzlepress.co.uk
H E A T
Crossword Across 7. Type of hat (6) 8. Assault (6) 9. Not pretty (4) 10. Exciting (8) 11. Style of writing (7) 13. Cold (5) 15. Freshwater fish (5) 17. Loosening (7) 20. Fruit trees are grown here (8) 21. Legend (4) 22. Mixes together (6) 23. Writer (6) Down 1. Zero (6) 2. Remain (4) 3. Foretell (7) 4. Boring (5) 5. Evenly (8) 6. Economise (6) 12. Chuckling (8) 14. Uncommon (7) 34
16. Seldom (6) 18. Idea (6)
19. Squash (5) 21. Dumb (4)
The Home JMP Electrical are a friendly and reliable family run business offering All Domestic & Commercial Electrical Works Whether you need a light replacing or a complete rewire, we are here to help. All work undertaken. Please call James for a FREE quotation
T: 01233 626081 M: 07976 616756 E: james@jmpelectrical.com W: www.jmpelectrical.com
Oil Heating & Oil Cookers R-OAK Services M. Oakley & O.Stanley - Oil-fired Specialists Breakdowns & Servicing • Boiler Installation • Power Flushing AGA, Rayburn, Alpha, Stanley, Worcester, Tel: 01233 770138 www.ohoc.co.uk Grant, Boulter, Potterton, Trianco and more...
Lancaster Builders (Kent) Ltd BEST MIX - Ready Mix Concrete/Screed Mixed on site: Pay only for what you need from 0.5metres Supply to Domestic / Building Contractors No Waste - No Danger to Environment Barrow Service Available Available 7 days a week
• • • • •
Industrial • Commercial • Domestic New Installations • General Electrical Repairs Showers / Extractor Fans • Energy Saving Advice Emergency Lighting • Solar Panels Garden Electrics • Inspection & PAT Testing Full and Part Rewires • Central Vacuum System • Under Floor Heating
Call: 01233 665107
E: laureng@tbelectrical.org.uk
FREE Quotations!
Plumbing & Heating Services
All plumbing work undertaken no job too small! Burst pipes, Blockages, Taps, Pumps, Radiators & Drainage work. Bathroom & Shower Installation
0785 011 5218 / 0756 842 9497
01233 720889
Call: Michael on 01233 733779 or 07515 651 717 No Call Out Charge. 24hr Service 35
JAGER Electrical Services
JAGER Electrical Services, based in Bethersden, are a full service design and installation company with a wide range of experience. Our commitment to excellent customer service and high standards means we understand our client’s individual needs and consistently deliver as promised - on time. Our reputation in electrical installations ensures professionalism and reliability to an impressive range of clients in the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors. A high standard of work and service with competitive prices genuine value is delivered to all clients, whether they are day to day domestic jobs or large multi-sited contracts. Our Services Include:
9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 36
Fixed Installation Testing PAT Testing (Portable Appliance Testing) Residential rewiring projects Commercial / Industrial design & installation Housing new builds Test and inspection Data and communications cabling CCTV Cable installation Display and Exterior lighting Low voltage lighting Emergency lighting LED lighting installer Alarm systems Intercom systems Electric gate systems
9 9
Fire alarm installations General upgrade works
We are committed to forward thinking to provide the most up to date electrical solutions and creative solutions for our clients’ full requirements. We are a full service design and installation company with a wide range of experience and expertise. Our commitment to excellent customer service and high standards means we understand our client’s individual needs and consistently deliver as promised and on time.
J.A.G.E.R
Electrical Contractors Unit 1, Mill Farm Business Untis, Bethersden TN26 3DB Professional, reliable service you can trust!
All Electrical Works Undertaken
• Domestic • Commercial • Industrial
Design & Installation / Housing New Builds Residential Rewiring / Test & Inspection Data & Communication Cabling CCTV Cable Installation / Lighting Alarm Systems / Intercom Systems Electric Gate Systems
www.jagerelectricalltd.co.uk
Office: 01233 820400
James: 07912 030 574 Elliott: 07891 175 422
info@jagerelectricalltd.co.uk
Derek Hales MASTER TILER SPECIALIST IN ALL FORMS OF WALL AND FLOOR TILING CLEAN, FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE
For your free quotation
Call Derek on 07905 700 142
HIGHCLERE CONSTRUCTION
The Ashford Building Contractors All Types of Building, Restoration & Maintenance Work Undertaken
Call John Cameron on
All quotations will of course be free of charge!
or 01233 624093
Qualified Tradesmen at Sensible Prices
07740 150 274
We can design, supply and install the perfect solution for you
Walk-in showers • Walk-in baths • Wetrooms
Zero VAT on Disabled bathrooms
01233 210808 www.batheinsafety.co.uk
To find out how we can help you Call :
• British Healthcare & Trading Standards Approved • 37
Useful Information Emergency Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden
Crimestoppers
999 101 0800 555 111
Out of Hours Doctor William Harvey Hospital
0845 4349655 01233 633331
Samaritans
116123
www.samaritans.org Electricity: Southern Electric EDF Energy Gas: Natural LPG
0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank
Doctors Surgery The Charing Surgery 01233 714 490 Headcorn Surgery 01622 890294 Parish Councils: Biddenden: 01580 890750 Charing: 01233 713599 Egerton: 01622 853558 Headcorn: 01622 892496 Pluckley: 01233 770739 Smarden: 07752 395412 Ashford Borough Council 01233 331111 www.ashford.gov.uk Ashford Gateway 0845 8 247 247 info:ashfordgateway.co.uk www.ashfordgateway.co.uk Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185 CPRE Kent 01233 714540 Veterinary Surgeons Barrow Hill Vets 01233 624687 Pierson Stewart & Partners 01580 713381 Charing Business Association www.charingkent.co.uk Volunteer Centre 01233 665 535 Age UK Ashford 01233 668 765 www.ageuk.org/ashford ageukashford.org@gmail.com CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk Macmillan Cancer Support www.forget-me-nots.co.uk
Parkinson’s UK, Ashford Branch Contact Mike Wharrad 01233 623520 Royal British Legion 01233 620 167 St. John Ambulance Brigade 01233 611 414 East Kent Strokes 01233 840448 www.eastkentstrokes.org SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: mssoutheast@gmail.com NSPCC: Tenterden & District Mrs J Coombs 01580 763733 Pregnancy Sickness Support Kent and Sussex www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk/ Contact: Denise Clifford deniseclifford@ btinternet.com Royal Mail Residential Customer Services 08457 740740 Bus Enquiries Arriva Bus Enquiries 0871 200 22 33 (Timetable) 08456 00 22 99 (Customer Services) National Train Enquiries: www.nationalrail. co.uk Wealden Wheels: 01233 840000 Village Halls:
Biddenden Charing Charing Heath Egerton - Millenium Hall Headcorn Little Chart or Pluckley Smarden Charter Hall
01580 291320 01233 713599 01233 713317 01233 840479 01622 890708 07753 802814 01233 840395 01233 840280 01233 771947
High Pressure Jetting Service & Repair to Sewage treatment plants Soakaway Testing Cesspool Emptying Service
01233 840624
Disclaimer: Every care is taken to ensure this directory is as accurate as possible but the publishers do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions.
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PUZZLE ANSWERS Kid’s Corner: The Grid: (Column One) Butterfly, rabbit, lamb, chick. (Column Two) Chick, lamb, rabbit, butterfly. (Column Three) lamb, chick, butterfly, rabbit. (Column Four) rabbit, butterfly, chick, lamb. Maze: You pick up 6 Easter eggs when taking the most direct route to the basket. The word that can be unjumbled is ‘Spring’.
Sudoku: Word Ladder: FIRE hire here herd head HEAT
Crossword: