Aldington August 2014 by The Village Directory

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August 2014

PIRATE AMBUSH! A day in the life of children at Ashford School Nursery

“Outstanding” Independent Schools Inspectorate 2014 An inspection of the whole school in March 2014 declared us Outstanding. That conﬁrms that children at Ashford School Nursery receive the very best care, nurture and education.

“ The provision is outstanding in meeting the

needs of the children who attend. The school very successfully meets its aim to ensure that each child has the opportunity to explore, to know, to do, to share and to be.

”

Independent Schools Inspectorate 2014

Come and meet Sue and the team

Call 01233 620493 Great Chart, Ashford, Kent TN23 3DJ

www.ashfordschool.co.uk

Adventurous Learning

Welcome Hi everyone, As I write this August introduction I realise that these days of sitting on the patio plus outdoor living and socialising are numbered! It seems as though I’ve only just got into the swing of summer and now autumn is waiting in the wings. Who knows we may have an Indian Summer, but just to be on the safe side I aim to make the most of every little bit of fine weather this month. Even as I write, I’m sitting on the patio, keeping a watchful eye out for the odd shower that is predicted for today. If I have to work on a Sunday then I plan to make it as pleasurable as I possibly can! With yet another birthday looming on the glorious 12th (there have been so many I now have to calculate how old I am), this is my month. It’s scary how quickly the years seem to fly by as you get older. Maybe my monthly magazine deadlines make it even more apparent!

All Seasons Garden Services Over 20 years experience All aspects of garden care undertaken Fully insured

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For An Appointment

TAYLOR MAR R TIN HAIR

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Following last month’s edition a reader Voucher commented on how extremely close deadline SMART DOGS time was to the delivery of the July Issue. GROOMING SERVICE £5 Off Full Dog Unfortunately delivery dates vary depending Groom on where the last Monday of the month falls, but TEL: 01233 732505 in August. the 1st of the month deadline is kept the same www.smartdogs-kent.co.uk ALD Marsh Rd Hamstreet,TN26 2JE in order for it to be easily remembered and not constantly changing. If you remember the 1st NEEDLES & PINS you will not miss any of the eight magazines. REPAIR AND ALTERATION SERVICE The magazines usually go to print 1-2 weeks Zips & Trouser / Skirt Shortening from £4.50 after the delivery of the previous month’s issue, HAND SEWN CURTAINS if you think you’ve missed the deadline please FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY SERVICE Call Christina 01303 864280 do contact me, I will always attempt to include last minute content. C S Pa Painting & Decorating Services Until next time have a great summer.

~ Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk September Issue Deadline 1st August

Interior & Exterior 15 years experience – Fully insured

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Please call for a free quote

Paul Smith Plumbing Services FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS FREE ESTIMATES

Call Paul on 01303 812965 07794005909

The

the garden

Garden Shed

Grow your own take-away

by Pippa Greenwood

have the beginnings of a stir-fry. Mizuna has got to be one of the most attractive leafy vegetables you can grow. Its green leaves appear soon after sowing the seed in a pot or in open ground, and they add a great spicy flavour to your stir-fry and also add a zing to salads and sandwiches.

oriental vegetables do well from late summer sowings

We all know that home-cooked food is better for us than a stream of takeaways, but then we all deserve a little self-indulgence from time to time. So why not save yourself the guilt (and some cash) and grow your own Chinese takeaway right here in your own garden? No I haven’t turned cookery writer, but you can easily grow some of those tasty and crunchy vegetables that make the backbone of many a Chinese stir-fry... and the great thing is that oriental vegetables do well from late summer sowings, so it’s off to the garden centre (not the takeaway) you go! Bean sprouts are so easy to grow you could almost do it with your eyes shut. The common types are sprouted mung-beans, and you can either buy packets of seed or a small packet of the beans themselves from your local health food store. They’ll come with easy cultivation instructions and before you know it you’ll

And where would your Chinese meal be without that delicious Oriental veg, pak-choi. It’s another easy vegetable to grow late in the summer: just sow the seeds in a well-forked soil, water, and wait. Thin out as per the instructions of the seed packet (you can eat the thinnings too), then just pinch off the roots and pop the plants into the wok. Pak-choi also grows well in a container of multi-purpose compost. Garlic is another essential ingredient. It’s not really the right time of year to plant garlic, but for an unexpected little extra take a few spare cloves and pot them in trays of compost. Keep the compost slightly moist and in a week or two the cloves will start to sprout. What you’re after here aren’t the sprouts though, but the bright green foliage which adds a definitely garlicy flavour to stir-fries and a touch of colour as well. Radishes add heat as well as crunch, and there are some lovely oriental varieties such as Mantanhong, which is a

British-bred Chinese variety with a superbly crunchy bright redto-pink inner flesh and spherical white roots – great for colour and texture and with a sweet almost nutty flavour. Sow in open ground or pots from now until early September for cropping in a few weeks’ time. Spring onions are another classic stir-fry component. You won’t get a fully mature crop for harvesting this year unless you’re extremely lucky; but what you will get is a super-young onion that will add both colour and intense flavour to the contents of your wok. And finally, mushrooms will add a meaty texture to your home-grown vegetable stir-fry. Kits for growing both oyster and field mushrooms are available in many garden centres or by mail order. It’s not always easy to get right, I know, but the challenge is definitely worth it when you have exotic mushrooms growing in your cellar, garden frame, greenhouse, or shed. Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for her “Winter thru Spring” vegetable collection, plants for September, regular advice emails from Pippa, and a range of gardening products including Nemasys caterpillar, slug, ant and other biological controls, Enviromesh & Enviroﬂeece

the garden

SYMONDS

Finn’s Perfect Gardens

(Direct Services) Garden Machinery Maintenance & Pre Season Servicing

Any jobs big or small, from mowing to fence painting, garden clearance. Call today for an affordable quote.

Shane Finn - Gardener 07547 096 340 / 01303 813903

• Servicing & Repairs of Most Makes

e: finny.1984@hotmail.co.uk - Sellindge Based -

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A Complete and Comprehensive Tree Care Service since 1907 For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives; Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

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FENCING

Stephen Bailey Landscaping

SHEDS, DECKING & MORE...

Large Stocks Usually Available Subject to Demand

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the garden Our Complete Open Weekend Dates for 2014 PLUCKLEY ROAD BETHERSDEN KENT

www.stonegreennurseries.co.uk Wholesale Nursery Open to the Public On the 22nd, 23rd, 24th & 25th August 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*

August 22nd - 23rd - 24th - 25th September 5th - 6th - 7th 26th - 27th - 28th Fri 10am-5pm, Sat, Sun & BHM 9am-5pm

Truly a Gardeners Paradise! Please remember we are only open on these dates. We accept most major credit cards

Pluckley Road Bethersden TN26 3ET For detailed directions please see our website. Follow day-glow signs from A20 at Charing and A28 at Bethersden

Paul Thompson Tree Surgery & Fencing

• Felling, Pruning & Shaping • Pollarding • Crown Reductions • Hedge Cutting • Garden Clearance

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Professional Tree Work Fully Qualified & Insured Environment Agency Registered Council Approved Contractor Please Mention The

S EASONED

LOGS A VAILABLE

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Mowgli

his month I am going to write about plants. They have been a hot topic in our house!

I love eating plants. Plants of any type. Sometimes we have some cat grass and I think it is one of the best things ever. However, my love of eating plants has got me into trouble in the past. As soon as I arrived on the scene any obviously toxic plants or flowers were banned from the house. Clive made sure any flowers he bought didn’t have lilies in them and for a while everything was OK. Then my little obsession got the better of me and it all started. Clive had bought some flowers that were thought to be non-poisonous and I then tucked in when they were out- the iris leaves were my favourite. But they gave me a tummy ache and when Jane got home from work I was rolling about in the hall yowling that I was Very Poorly. The folks tracked down the half eaten iris and weren’t too worried but phoned the veterinary poisons information line just in case who told them that iris usually just caused gastroenteritis but in some cases it caused racing of the heart and death! Well, I haven’t had such a fun night since- they took it in turns to stay up with me and take my heart rate. I was given lots of hugs and even Ebony was attentive. The next morning I was still fine and apparently Out Of Danger so I was then in trouble for eating the flowers. Flowers and plants have been banned from our house ever since- years now- and Jane has to take any flowers she gets into her zoo office. Anyway, we now have a few basil plants in the house. I have nibbled a few leaves and they are quite tasty...... There have been a few animals brought into the clinic that have over-indulged on plants that have got their own back. When the clinic first opened a very brave puppy survived yew

berry poisoning. They have also had a couple of cats poisoned by lilies. We have also lost count of the number of dogs who have ignored the plants but eaten the slug bait and then had a lengthy stay in the clinic. I think it is not the fault of us animals if plants are out to get us! We also have problems with plants in the garden. Early in the morning when we look out of our windows it is like a fairytale- there are usually at least 20 rabbits on the grass. We had hoped to get out of this problem when we moved- but it is just the same at the new house, maybe worse! Although it is exciting to watch them out of the windows the rabbits demolish everything. They dig things up, they eat things, they even eat things that books say rabbits don’t eat. As for growing vegetables and herbs it is quite impossible. Jane has recently started a herb garden but the rabbits are eating far more herbs than anyone else. The herbs are right by the window so great for us to watch. They are almost as entertaining as those stupid goats!

~ Mowgli Montgomery Vets

AT THE EVEGATE CENTRE SMEETH, ASHFORD ‘We treat your pet as if it was our own’ Specialising in all pet animals including exotics & avian. Calm and friendly family run clinic.

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Haven

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Sheds - Plus Sheds - Workshops - Garden Offices - Kennels

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Call Steve Samuels 07988 888078 Email: sheds-plus@sky.com Unit 3B, Frith Business Centre, Frith Road, Aldington TN25 7HJ Please Mention The

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Legal & Financial Seeking advice about divorce and separation. In the latest in a regular series on legal matters, Laura Hails, Head of the Family Department at Pengelly & Rylands, talks about divorce. It is widely recognised that following the breakdown of a relationship, those first decisions you make can greatly affect how you finalise your separation. Every family’s circumstances are different and you may need to think through the options with professional advice and guidance to make wise choices for your future, and that of your family. Seeking sound legal advice at this point, could be the best decision you ever make.

Laura Hails – Chartered Legal Executive should you have been asked to complete one. Whatever assistance or guidance you may need, we are always happy to advise. And it’s worth knowing that, as a member of Resolution, a nationally recognised family lawyers’ organisation, we always follow their principles to minimise conflict and reduce the impact of separation upon any children of the family.

We appreciate that solicitors can have a reputation for being expensive! And we know that, especially during difficult economic times, costs are a major factor when instructing solicitors. We are here to advise you of all the different options available to you, so you don’t spend more than you need to on legal fees.

So, if you would like some initial advice about divorce or separation, or any of the issues raised following the breakdown of a relationship, please feel free to call Amy, secretary to the family department, for more information on 01580 762248.

We provide a fixed fee divorce service which covers all steps from your initial instructions through to your Decree Absolute. Any other work we undertake in respect of the financial aspects of your divorce, or non-related divorce matters, are charged at an hourly rate, and we can discuss with you, at your first appointment, the most suitable way forward for you, in light of your individual circumstances.

Pengelly & Rylands

If you do not wish to instruct solicitors to deal with your separation throughout, we can still assist you. For example, you may instigate divorce proceedings yourself, but need help with the financial aspects of your separation; or should you attend mediation where, depending upon your circumstances Legal Aid is sometimes available, then you will be referred back to solicitors to convert the mediators’ summary into a legally binding document. This is something that we can prepare for you. Alternatively, you may need some professional assistance in completing the financial disclosure document, known as the ‘Form E’,

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the home

Brabourne Lees - £ 295,000

Brabourne Lees - £ 470,000 SSTC

Detached three bed bungalow, two receptions, driveway access to double garage & parking for two cars. Situated in heart of village, local amenities within a few muinutes walk.

Bespoke four bed detached property, cul de sac location, four double bedrooms, four receptions and two bathrooms surrounded by manicured gardens.

Brook

Brabourne

Brabourne Lees

Four bed detached chalet bungalow occupying a generous plot and accommodation, offering the chance of idyllic country living. Backs onto fields and with wonderful views.

Unlisted period cottage, stunning rural location opposite woodland. Spacious three bed with newly fitted kitchen & bathroom. Two receptions and boot room.

Individual four bed detached property, good sized accommodation, mature garden backing onto open fields.

£379,995

£330,000

Brabourne

Brabourne Lees

Three bed barn conversion with farmhouse style kitchen/breakfast room, Inglenook fireplace with wood burner in living room, ‘Victorian style’ bathroom, pretty cottage garden and cart barn

Bespoke six bed detached property, 3000sq ft over three floors, family/ kitchen breakfast room, 2 further receps, 3 bathrooms, laundry room, dble garage, landscaped rear garden with far reaching views.

Stunning four bed period property. Deceptively spacious, extended & refurbished with impressive conservatory. 125ft garden backing onto open fields. 10min walk to Westenhanger Station.

£350,000 - 375,000

£600,000 - 625,000

£335,000

£375,000

Stanford

LEES ROAD • BRABOURNE LEES • Nr ASHFORD • KENT TN25 6QB

SALES: 01303 812515 • LETTINGS:01303 812541 www.sjmproperty.co.uk Please Mention The

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Home & Interiors Choosing & Using Paint

By Katherine Sorrell

consider specialist paints that are scrubbable and resistant to both moisture and steam.

Indoor woodwork and metal

This trend-setting wall is painted in Stiffkey Blue® No.281, £36 for 2.5l Estate® Emulsion, Farrow & Ball, 01202 876141; farrow-ball.com

A quick lick of paint on the walls and woodwork will brighten and beautify any home, inside and out. Our interiors expert Katherine Sorrell is on hand to help you choose the best type of paint.

Indoor walls and ceilings Easy to apply and available in thousands of different colours, emulsion is ideal for walls and ceilings. Emulsion is always waterbased, which means it is quickdrying, low-odour and cleans off the brush easily. Choose from a flat matt, standard matt or silk (softly shiny) finish. Generally, the higher the sheen level, the easier the surface will be to keep clean, but the more any imperfections will show up. Water-based eggshell has a low shine and provides a more durable, wipeable surface – useful for walls in hard-working areas such as hallways or playrooms. For kitchens and bathrooms,

Unless you have chosen an all-inone, specially formulated paint, first use an appropriate primer to seal bare surfaces then apply a couple of layers of undercoat on top of the primer to give ‘body’ to the surface. Remember that undercoat comes in a dark or light colour, depending on the shade of top coat to be used. For your final coat, gloss is available in a variety of finishes, from low sheen to high gloss. It is always better to apply two thin coats of gloss than one thick one, the exception being when using non-drip gloss (sometimes called one-coat gloss), which is best used for pale interior woodwork. For central heating pipes and radiators, buy a heat-resistant paint which will withstand high temperatures without discolouring. Solvent-based paints are gradually being phased out, so these days the majority of wood and metal paints are water-based and brushes can be cleaned with hot water and detergent.

Outdoors Masonry paints are designed for outdoor wall surfaces made from brick, stone, concrete, pebbledash and render. They come in smooth or textured finishes. For older properties, limewash is a traditional finish that has a powdery matt surface and a lovely depth of colour. Use it for interior and exterior limestone, lime render and plaster, and even wattle and daub. For woodwork, use an exterior-grade primer, undercoat and gloss, just like indoors. For fences, sheds and garden furniture, choose from a range of specialist treatments, clear or coloured, which are

designed to prolong the life of the timber. Restore old railings and other metalwork with exterior-quality metal paint such as Hammerite.

Specialist paints There is a specialist paint for virtually every need, whether you want to repaint your kitchen cupboard doors, paint timber, concrete or vinyl flooring, or revamp the tiles in your shower. Look out for fire-retardant and anti-burglar paint, blackboard paint, damp-inhibiting paint, suede-effect and even magnetic paint.

What about natural paints? Natural paints are water-based and made either with very much lower levels of petrochemicals than conventional paints, or with plant-based ingredients. They are ‘breathable’, which is good for older houses, as well as kind to the planet and to your health. You can buy natural paints ready-mixed, in a wide range of colours, and even have them colour-matched to your desired shade. They’re just the same to apply as ordinary paints, with similar coverage, though paints made with natural oils tend to take longer to dry.

the home Jakeman & Jakeman Homecare Steve Jakeman

Handyman Painter & Decorator Interior & Exterior Decoration and Maintenance

01233 625442 07910591393 219 Canterbury Road, Kennington, Ashford, Kent TN24 9QH

Jakeman-homecare@ntlworld.com

Professional and insured Kitchen fitting Bathroom fitting Tiling Decorating: Interior & Exterior Free quotes

Geoff Evans

Call 07500 905622 / 01233 627715 Email : geoffevans8@googlemail.com Facebook : qfproperties@gmail.com

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Bountiful Books The summer is in full-swing and there’s an abundance of luscious fruits to get our lips smacking. We’ve handpicked some choice novels that are ripe with ideas, visions, fantastic stories and characters we will never forget. It’s a bumper crop, so kick back in the sunshine and tuck in.

The Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck If you want drama on an epic scale, then The Grapes of Wrath will whip you into a frenzy, beat you into a pulp and then spit you out into the corner. It’s the American Dream in its purest and most stark form, and follows the lives of one family of sharecroppers, the Joads from Oklahoma. Driven from their homes and their agricultural land by the Dust Bowl, they head west to California in search of work and a future. The devastation wreaked by the Great Depression scarred the landscape and battered these migrating ‘Okies’ into submission. Steinbeck won a Pulitzer for his tribute to the human spirit, endurance and dignity and possibly the greatest American classic ever written. Watermelon - Marian Keyes How does it feel to have your husband walk out on you, the day your first child is born? Claire is quite literally left holding the baby, when her husband decides to up and leave her for the woman who lives in the flat downstairs. Oh, the humiliation. So Claire packs her bags and heads back to the bosom of her own family in Dublin to lick her wounds and plan her future. What happens when the philandering husband then tries to worm his way back into Claire’s affections? Stronger and much more resolute, the ‘new’ Claire must decide whether or not she’s going to forgive or forget.

Oranges are not the Only Fruit Jeanette Winterson Sixteen year old Jeanette looks all set to lead the life of a devout missionary, carrying out God’s work and committing her life to the church, having been adopted as a child by a family of evangelists. That is until she finds a greater object of passion and a reason to commit to a mere mortal; a young female convert of hers. Suddenly the path that seemed set out for her is vanishing before her eyes and she is forced to leave behind the church, her family and her home in the industrial north of England. This is a powerful and challenging story, taking one girl a long way from where she started, in the pursuit of happiness and a clear idea of ‘self’. The Lemon Table - Julian Barnes All the characters in Barnes’ The Lemon Table are facing the end of their lives, and all with a different perspective and reactions to reaching the ‘end of the road’. One man measures his life in the number of haircuts he has given, whilst a retired army major prepares for his trip to his regimental dinner, and his regular date with ‘working girl’ Babs. Elsewhere, a woman in a nursing home develops a new correspondence with an author that brings vitality to an ageing mind and body. None of them will go quietly into the night, and each finds a way to face up to their mortality with passion and vigour. It’s a lesson for us all, told in the most poignant of ways.

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café - Fanny Flagg With good food and friends you can’t go far wrong. Idgie and Ruth open their cafe, and their arms to the local townspeople, creating a home from home for many of their customers. It’s a book that’s jam-packed with laughter, tall tales and even the occasional murder, all served up with a side of grits. Reading Fried Green Tomatoes is like tucking into some hearty southern fodder; ‘soul food’ as they say in Alabama, and good for the soul is exactly what this delicious and mouth-watering offering is. A Clockwork Orange - Anthony Burgess Not one for the faint-hearted, this is the story of fifteen year old Alex, an ultra-violent and highly unpredictable ‘droog’ who must be reformed and rehabilitated by the State. Burgess paints a picture of a nightmarish future, where the criminal element rules the streets at night, and the out of control teenagers speak their own slang of ‘Nadsat’. Alex’s gang carry out horrific attacks, robbing and killing their way through life until Alex is forced to undergo re-education. The novel asks a lot of important questions about civil liberties and what it means to be truly free. It’s extremely thought-provoking, though this orange might leave a nasty taste in your mouth.

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JMINTERIORS Fine hand crafted kitchens and bespoke furniture

Hand crafted kitchens & interiors

Showroom: Park Farm, Frittenden Road, Biddenden, Kent TN27 8L J

Tel: 01580 291221 Web: w w w.jmi-kitchens.co.uk

Images courtesy of Harlequin

Call Now For a Free Consultation Please Mention The

Open Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm Sat 10am - 1pm

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Life Begins Three essential tips for the IT phobic by Kate McLelland “I was too busy bringing up the children”, “I’m not technically minded”, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”. Whatever excuse you’ve used over the years to avoid learning about it, information technology is here to stay.

These days so many of the things we do are dependent on the internet and in future years our interaction with the online world is set to increase still further. If you’ve never held a mouse in your hand (except for the furry kind), prepare for the world as you know it to change beyond all recognition. Tip One: get hold of a computer Buying a computer doesn’t necessarily mean a huge financial outlay. There are Microsoftauthorised dealers from whom you can buy a “bundle” of refurbished computer equipment (including hard drive, monitor, mouse, keyboard, software and a one year warranty) for under £200. Allow a further £30£60+VAT for a local computer engineer to set up the equipment if you don’t have anyone who can do it for you. If you prefer a portable version you can buy a new laptop computer from about £300 upwards. Smaller, tablet computers are available from £220 but if you like a traditional keyboard you may find it harder

to get to grips with the tablet’s touchscreen functions. Borrowing is fine if you have a friend or neighbour willing to offer lengthy periods of access to their home computer. If you are visiting a local library to use their equipment, you may need to book in advance. Tip two: find a good teacher Once you’ve mastered the basic operation of mouse and screen you’ll need someone to show you how everything else works, and at this point you have two options: ask someone you know to teach you, or go for professional help. In September and January many of the local colleges start courses teaching you how to become IT literate, and you may also enjoy the experience of learning with like-minded people. If you don’t know anyone who can teach you the basics, Age UK can help you find a computer course in your area. You can call them on 0800 169 6565 or alternatively check with your library to find a local training centre. Tip three: don’t panic! Computer circuits are used in everything from washing machines to mobile phones these days, so computers should really have lost their ability to scare us. Don’t worry about making mistakes or losing information: most of the errors you will make

can be easily corrected. There are a number of books available from high street newsagents that explain computing in very simple, basic terms, so it may help to buy one of those, particularly if it has a glossary in the back where you can look up any words you don’t understand. Not just for shopping A recent study in America discovered that older people who regularly spent time online were one third less likely to suffer from depression than their peers who did not use the internet. The study, which contacted 3,075 people, found that access to the internet helped with issues of loneliness and social isolation. Out of all the reasons offered by the IT phobic for not learning basic computing skills, the ultimate excuse is probably “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”. Phobics may therefore be dismayed to hear that the same US study found people in their 80s, 90s and even their 100s were still capable of learning to use a computer.

the home

WE GUARANTEE GUARANTEE TO TO BEAT BEAT ANY ANY PRICE, PRICE, WE ON ANY ANY ITEM ITEM ,, INCLUDING INCLUDING PROMOTIONS PROMOTIONS ON

UPHOLSTERY SUITE IN-STOCK

Reclaimed

Beef & Sweet Potato Curry Serves 4

Ready in 50 minutes

This tasty beef curry has a wonderful mildly spiced coconut sauce and is perfect to serve when entertaining friends and family. Serve with natural yogurt and a cooling shredded carrot, tomato and cucumber salad.

Place the onion, garlic, ginger, pepper and curry paste in a food processor or blender with 1tbsp water and process until finely minced.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • •

1 onion, peeled and chopped 2 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 2cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and chopped 1 red pepper, deseeded and finely chopped 2 tsp Thai green curry paste 2 tbsp sunflower oil 450g thick sirloin steaks, trimmed of fat and cubed 400ml can reduced fat coconut milk 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into chunks 100g green beans, trimmed

•

4 tbsp fresh chopped coriander

•

Boiled rice, to serve

Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan, add the paste and fry over a medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring all the time until fragrant. Add the cubed steak and cook, stirring, over a high heat for 2-3 minutes until the meat is no longer pink. Pour in the coconut milk and 100ml water and bring to the boil. Add the sweet potato and reduce the heat to a very gentle simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the beans and cook for a further 5-10 minutes until the beef and sweet potato are tender. Stir in the chopped coriander and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve in warmed bowls with the boiled rice.

TIP

For a hotter curry add one finely chopped red chilli pepper to the paste. Replace the beef with skinned chicken thigh fillets if preferred.

£49

essentiallyhops Decorative Hop Garlands are the most beautiful natural garlands, picked fresh from the field at the end of August and hung in the home where they dry naturally to give all year round decoration. Ideal over fireplaces and agas, or on beams, over doorways, windows or on dressers, the traditional Kentish hop garland is highly sought after and now not as widely available as they used to be. Tractors run up and down from the hop gardens every day during the hop harvest to bring the freshly picked hops to the shop for customers to choose from. The hop harvest starts around 20th august until 15th September but you can buy the dried garlands all year round.

essentiallyhops is nestled in a tranquil farm yard in the heart of the countryside just outside Canterbury, there is an excellent coffee shop and other interesting businesses to make your visit even more special. The shop is a magical grotto packed full of home decoration ideas and customers can watch expert florists making gorgeous flower arrangements, get inspiration and ideas to brighten their homes. Packed full of flowers, interesting gifts and friendly advice, people are inspired and enthused. A unique shopping experience with plenty for everyone. A treasure waiting to be discovered. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry if you miss the hop harvest, the farm shop is open all year round and hop garlands are dried for sale throughout the rest of the year.

Country Flowers Country Florist at

essentiallyhops Beautiful flowers for all occasions Weddings Bouquets

Birthdays Funerals Posies Handties Gifts free local delivery Fresh Hop Garlands 8-10 feet of natural traditional Kentish home decoration Harvest starts 22nd August for three weeks Buy fresh hops to hang immediately so that they dry in situ and last all year

tel: 01227 830666

www.essentiallyhops.co.uk

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10.30am-4pm Chalkpit Farm Rural Shopping, Bekesbourne, Near Canterbury CT4 5EU email: shop@essentiallyhops.co.uk

Cake and Bake Dutch Apple Pie The buttery pastry for this deep dish pie is made with a mix of self-raising and plain ﬂours which gives it a soft and cake-like texture. If you prefer a crisper pastry ples use all plain ﬂour. Choose crisp sweet dessert apples such as Cox’s Orange Pippins or Discovery. 22

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

200g plain flour 150g self raising flour 175 g unsalted butter, diced 150g caster sugar plus 1 tbsp for sprinkling 2 medium eggs, beaten 400g dessert apples, peeled, cored and sliced 75g raisins 75g light soft brown sugar 1 tbsp corn flour 1 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tbsp milk Whipped cream, to serve

TIP Replace the apples with sliced pears or a mixture of summer berries such as blackberries, raspberries and blueberries.

Serves 8

1. To make the pastry, sift the plain and self- raising flours into a large bowl and add the diced butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour to make fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and beaten eggs and mix to a soft dough. Knead very lightly until smooth then wrap in cling film and chill in the fridge for 1 hour. 2. Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5. Place a baking sheet in the oven to pre-heat. 3. Roll out two-thirds of the pastry on a lightly floured surface and use to line the base of a 23 cm round loose-based fluted flan tin. 4. Toss the apple slices in a bowl with the raisins, brown sugar, cornflour and cinnamon then layer in the pastry case, pressing down gently. Roll out the remaining pastry and cut into strips. Arrange in a lattice pattern over the apples. Dab the edges of the strips with a little water and press firmly to seal. 5. Brush the top of the pie with milk and sprinkle over caster sugar. Place the flan case on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Serve warm or cold with whipped cream.

Happy Helpers Domestic Cleaning Services Reliable Dedicated Service • One Offs • Daily • Weekly • Monthly • Special Requirements Cleaning products supplied - Hourly rate £12 Also offer washing & ironing services (separately priced) CALL NOW TO BOOK! Louise 07881200869 FREE TRIAL FOR AN HOUR

Fruit Apples Blackberries Currents Damsons Gooseberries Greengages Loganberries Melons Plums Raspberries Strawberries

Vegetables Artichoke Aubergine Beetroot Beans Broccoli Butternut Squash Cabbage Carrots Cauliflower Celery Courgettes Cucumber Garlic Kohirabi Mangetout

Marrow Onions Peas Peppers Potatoes Radishes Rocket Salsify Spring Onions Seetcorn Turnips

Salad Lettuce Pak Choi Purslaine Sorrel Spinach Tomatoes Watercress

Fish Cod Crab Dover Sole Grey Mullet Haddock Halibut Herring John Dory Lemon Sole Lobster Mackerel

Ashford Farmer’s Market First Sunday of every month from 10am to 2pm in the lower High Street. Challock Challock Memorial Hall, Blind Lane. 1st & 3rd Friday of each month 1pm to 4pm Contact Pauline Hickson 01233 740979 The Barn Shop Traditional Market Challock - 2nd & 4th Saturday of month 10am – 2pm Contact 01233 740237 Charing Farmer’s Market Charing Church Barn 9 -11.30 every Thursday morning. Contact 01233 740176

In Season: August

Local Markets

Monkfish Plaice Salmon Sardines Sea Bass Scallops

Meat & Game Beef Duck Grey Squirrel Grouse Guinea Fowl Hare Lamb Mutton Pork Rabbit Veal Venison Wood Pigeon

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 Tenterden Country Market Every Friday 9.30am -11.30am 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

Competition Draw a picture of Tinkaboo in this frame, then ask a grown up to take a photo of it and send it to thedoobdoocrew@idoobdoo. ge in the next com for a chance to appear on our club page edit The star picture will win Dolly’s case, a edition. co copy of “Dolly Doodles and her Adventures n in Muddle-Puddle” in paperback and on CD, plus stickers and goodies to makee es and create. Runners up whose pictures y’s are published will receive a set of Dolly’s decorative stickers.

Win!

Dolly’s C ase of Goodies

Drawn by Address

Age

MEET TINKABOO A STAR IN THE MAKING Written by Willamina-the-Wise-Wordsmith (aka A.B) Doo-B-Doodle town was a-buzz with excitement. Tinkaboo had been chosen to appear in a TV show. At Dolly’s little cottage, the photographer from the local newspaper, Doo-B-Doodle Town’s Some-Times, was about to arrive for Tinkaboo’s photoshoot. But Dolly couldn’t find her puppy anywhere. “Tinkaboo! Where are you?” she called. “Getting ready!” barked Tinkaboo. Dolly skipped upstairs and smiled when she saw the big sign on the bedroom door. FUR AND MAKE-UP But there was something else. Tinkaboo had made a door hanger and hung it on the handle. On it were the words TEA PLEASE. “Well, what a cheek!” Dolly mumbled. And she called through the door… “Tinkaboo Listen to you! Who doo-b-doo you think you are?!” But she still went to make him a cup of tea. “Here it is, Tinkaboo.” And Dolly set the tray down on the floor outside the bedroom. Then she looked up to see that the words on the door hanger now read BISCUITS PLEASE. Dolly folded her arms with a sigh. “Tinkaboo Listen to you! Who doo-b-doo you think you are?!” But she still went to fetch him his favourite Squiggly-Swisskits. “Here you are, Tinkaboo.”

And as Dolly set the plate down on the floor outside the bedroom door she noticed that the tea tray had disappeared. She also noticed that the words on the hanger had changed again. It now read NAIL CLIPPERS PLEASE. Dolly’s eyes flashed. “Tinkaboo Listen to you! Who doo-b-doo you think you are?!” But she still went to find the nail clippers. “Here you are, Tinkaboo.” Dolly popped the nail clippers down on the carpet, noticing that the plate of biscuits had disappeared. Then she looked up and couldn’t believe her eyes. The words on the hanger now read FUR BRUSH PLEASE. Dolly pursed her lips. But she still went to look for his fur brush. Upon her return, Dolly’s eyes went straight g to the door hanger this time, and d she nearly had a fit when she read the words FOX POOH COLOGNE GNE PLEASE! This time the cheeky little puppy ppy had really gone too far...

To read more go to... “Bedtime Stories” at www.idoobdoo.com. A new story will be published each and everyy month. While you’re there why not join the Doo-B-Doo Crew and download lots of FREE things to make and create, including Tinkaboo’s door hanger.r.

Membership is FREE! Join Us Today!

w ww.idoobdoo.co m www.idoobdoo.com

Puzzle Time

Adam Jacot de Boinod was a researcher for the television series QI and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books. Having researched the rural dialect of Kent collected so lovingly by Victorian lexicographers, he has set us a “Call-My-Bluff Quiz”. Can you guess the right answers for the definitions of the following words from Kent:

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!

1) hollard

3) cruppish

spur attached to the heel of a fighting cock an oak tree branch, dead and bare of bark too much for a wheelbarrow but not enough for a cart

b. c.

4) doxey a.

2) gumble a.

Quick Crossword Across 1. 4. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 18. 20. 22. 23. 24. 25.

Deprive of food (6) Scribble (6) Complicated (7) Meal of raw vegetables (5) Additional (5) Exactly alike (7) Meeting (11) Down-payment (7) End of day (5) Type of oil (5) Result (7) Process (6) Holds firmly (6)

shoes or clothes that do not fit properly, too large or tight to laugh in a quiet, suppressed or restrained manner perpetual grief 3

tawny, yellow tinged with red peevish, unwell high-spirited, proud

a small worthless apple remaining on the tree after the crop has been gathered in a scarecrow made of old garments a young woman of low repute

Answers published next month. 5

8 9

16 18

17 19

Down 1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 8. 14. 15.

Private (6) Allow to enter (5) Krakatoa (7) Beginning (5) Sea mammal (7) Not youngest (6) Test (11) Young dogs (7) Hideous beast (7)

16. Fools (6) 17. Speaks (6)

19. Kind of turnip (5) 21. Increases in size (5)

If I shake the bottle it makes a fantastic splashy sound! But why is the water pink? And why does it sink to the bottom of the bottle? Children are naturally curious and in the “outstanding” Nursery at Ashford Prep School every opportunity is given to every child to discover “why”. They think they are having a great time splashing, listening, shaking, seeing – but staff know they are in fact learning skills for life. Ashford Prep School Early Years department has been visited twice in the last year by inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate and each time they found it to be outstanding in every category. Here are just two of the comments they made: “Every opportunity is taken to awaken children’s curiosity and stimulate enquiry; for example the under threes experimented with musical instruments to see what sounds they could make and the over-threes weighed and mixed ingredients to make pancakes.”

“It is an extremely well-resourced, stimulating environment and full use is made of the outdoor space. Children are very well prepared for the next stage of their learning.” Ashford Prep School Nursery looks after children from age three until they start school in the term after their fourth birthday. They love wearing a uniform and being part of the prep school. They spend time with the older children and benefit from all the facilities of an equally outstanding prep school, including the chance to take swimming lessons in the school’s pool. Set in the green countryside of Great Chart, just a couple of miles from the international station, the Nursery is a beautiful setting in which children play, learn and develop under the guidance of caring and well-qualified staff. Whether it’s sports day, trying out musical instruments or discovering what’s lurking under that leaf in the garden, every day is an adventure at Ashford Prep School Nursery. Come and see for yourself. Come and meet our Head of Nursery Sue Yeates and the team by calling our Registrar Mrs Jenny Garrard on 01233 625171.

L i v e Ja z z What’s On Au g / Se p t

T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b A t T h e To w e r To B o o k C a l l : 0 1 3 0 3 2 7 7 1 7 5 A l l g i g s s t a r t a t 8 3 0 p m , Ad m £ 1 0

Thursday August 7th THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ GEOFF MASON & CHRIS BISCOE Play The Mulligan / Brookmeyer Years CHRIS BISCOE- baritone, GEOFF MASON trombone , JOHN HORLER piano TIM WELLS double bass ,TREVOR TOMKINS drums . Thursday August 14th THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ THE AMAZING KEVIN FITZSIMMONS “ I say this guy is more Buble’ than Buble’ “ “ His voice is an irresistible mixture of Sinatra- Bennett & Buble’ “ Jazz FM BRANDON ALLEN tenor sax,LEON GREENING piano - fantastic modern pianist, ADAM KING - double bass, MATT FISHWICK drums . Thursday August 21st THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ ROBERTO MANZIN & SUSANNAH FLACK ROBERTO MANZIN saxes, SUSANNAH FLACK steel pan, TED BEAMENT piano , ALEX KEEN double bass, ROD BROWN drums . Thursday August 28th THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ THE MUSIC OF OSCAR PETERSON By The Fantastic CRAIG MILVERTON QUARTET, DOMINIC ASHWORTH Guitar SANDY SUCHODOLSKI Double Bass, ROD BROWN Drums. Thurday September 4th THE PETER KING QUARTET Peter King world class Alto Saxophonist. with a world class rhythm section PETER KING alto sax STEVE MELLING piano GEOFF GASCOYNE double bass MARC FLETCHER drums This is World Class Tuesday September 9th THE BEST OF AUSSIE JAZZ. Australian Jazz Singer - often compared to Doris Day & Blossom Dearie. THE JANET SEIDEL TRIO Janet Seidel Piano & Vocals - - Chuck Morgan Guitar - - David Seidel D/Bass “ AN EVENING TO REMEMBER “ The Folkestone Jazz Club is a non profit making jazz club run by & for people with a like minded interest in Our Kind of Music. Derick Woodland 01303 260330

Sunday 3rd August 10am to 1pm Summer Bootfair Woodchurch Community Centre Lower Road Woodchurch TN26 3SQ All Welcome - just Turn Up - stalls £5.00 + Plenty Of Parking - Tea’s / Coffee woodchurchcommunitycentreco.uk Tel 07798566849.

Tuesday 5th August Blood doning session, Hamstreet primary academy, Ashford Road, Hamstreet, . The mini mobiles will be parked in the grounds of the village primary school. Regular and new donors are invited to attend from 1.30pm to 4.30pm and between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Monday 11th August Smeeth W.I. will not hold a meeting in the Village Hall during August but will be making an excursion to The London Beach Hotel, Tenterden to have afternoon tea, on th 11th at 3.00 pm. Transport will be arranged for Members who require assistance with travel and we look forward to a summer afternoon tea overlooking the beautiful Kent countryside. Should you require further information plese contact Joy Taylor on 01303 812165 or Margaret Garrett on 01303 813932

Thursday 14th August - Tenterden and District National Trust Association Tenterden Junior School, Recreation Ground Road. 7.30 pm “Creepy Kent ” Neil Arnold Visitors welcome. Further information 01580 764791.

Sunday

17th August Sellindge Gardeners association Annual Summer Show Sellindge Village Hall (on the A20) Competitions, Cakes, Plants Sale,Refreshments, Super Tombola, etc.Doors Open at 2.30 pm Entrance FREE.

Saturday 23rd, 24th and 25th August -

Sat and Mon 10.00 - 5.30, Sun noon - 5.30 Bank Holiday Weekend Appledore Flower Festival, “IN WHICH WE SERVE”, 33 floral arrangements depicting major services available to us all. Free admission and parking Stalls with books, cakes, local produce, plants, “Ancient and Modern”, handicrafts etc. Delicious refreshments available all day. Details 01233 758256. Appledore Parish Church TN26 2DB

Sunday 24th August - Westwell Fun Fete - 1pm - 4pm Fun Dog Show Coconut Shy Children’s Races Some Craft Stalls available Please phone 01233 623531 for information Come along and enjoy the day Evening entertainment in The Wheel, Westwell afterwards

Monday 25th August St Margarets church Bethersden - Garden Fete Bank Holiday Monday at Street Cottage Bethersden 11-30-4pm music B-B-Q ploughmans games and sideshows.Free entry plenty of parking. Contact no 01233 820 728 Monday 25th August-Saturday 30th August Weald Of Kent Art Group Summer Exhibition and Sale of Paintings to be held at Tenterden Town Hall.TN30 6AN. Open daily 10amto 5pm. Closes Saturday at 4pm. Free Entry.

Wednesday 27th August The Biddenden Horticultural Society meets on at 7:30pm. in the Village Hall when we will be holding our ‘Autumn Show’ and our special ‘Begonia’ competition. This is a chance to show what you have grown. There will also be a quiz followed by tea and cakes. Contact Irene on 01580291777 or Lesley on 01580291931. Members £1.50, Non Members £2.50. Annual membership £5. New members are always welcome.

Friday 29th August Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society. Meeting at 7.15 for 7.30pm in the village hall when Heather Silk will give a presentation on “Bloomers, Birds & Butterflies of Kent”. All are welcome. For further info contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or email brabournewendy@gmail.com.

Saturday 30th August - Smarden Village Garage Sale: 9.00 – 1.00. Over 20 garage sales to be discovered around the village. Maps, refreshments and toilets at Smarden Charter Hall TN27 8NF along with some stalls.

Saturday and Sunday 27th and 28th September in Pluckley Village Hall, Quilt and Craft Show from 10.30am to 5.00pm each day to include a display of quilts and crafts and trade stalls selling all things patchwork, quilting and sewing. Entrance £4.00 to include tea/coffee and cake or a savoury bite. All profits to the Village Hall fund. This is the first of what we hope will become an annual event. For further information phone Judy on 01233 840280 or Sue on 01233 840544.

Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5th October - Wyatts Cat at Tenterden Folk Festival 2014 The English barn dance to be held in the Tenterden Club in the evening of Friday 3rd October 2014 will feature local ceilidh band Wyatts Catt. The dance will again take place in the Moulton Hall and Evans Bar of the Tenterden Club in Church Road, just off the High Street, on the Friday evening from 7.30 p.m. Doors open at 7.00 p.m. The Club will be providing a real ale bar. Tickets are £8.00 for adults or £5.00 for under sixteens and are available by sending a cheque to Tenterden Folk Festival or can be purchased by credit cards online at www.musicglue.com/ tenterdenfolkfestival/tickets/ Pilgrims Hospices Events Day Centre Pilgrims Hospice Hythe Road, Ashford TN24 0NE Now collecting for ‘Gift it Again!

Summer Fair Saturday 2nd August See www.pilgrimshospices.org for more details

Sunday 7th September The Romney Marsh Ploughing & Cultivation Society are holding their Annual Ploughing Match & Fun Dog Show at Rothchild Farm, Burmarsh Road, Dymchurch, TN29 0JJ. Tel 07785 783 662. romneyploughing@yahoo. co.uk

Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th August Beech Field,Beech Lane,Biddenden,Kent, TN27 8EX.

ATTRACTIONS

• ADULTS £7

• Vintage Tractors & Vehicles • Funfair &Rodeo Bull • Children £3 • Birds Of Prey Display •Dog Agility Display • Micro Brewery • Local Wines & Foods • Family £18 For More Info visit: www.tractorfest.co.uk or call: 07956 827377 Saturday Evening Barn Dance with Supper, tickets £15 per person.

CLUBS & SOCIETIES Ashford Radio Aeromodellers, we have a field at Sellindge for flying seven days a week, and fly indoors in Ashford Market on various Thursday evenings during the Autumn, Winter, & Spring, please visit www.araclub.co.uk for more details, or phone Iain on 07956501510, or myself (Roger) 01233 627694.

Bilsington Ladies meet in Bilsington Village Hall 2nd Thursday of the month at 2.15pm. Interesting speakers and a warm welcome awaits. Call Jan on 01233 641820.

Sellindge Table Top Sale the 1st Saturday of each month in the village hall Sellindge. Tables booked in advance are £5. 00 Each and on the day (If available) £8. 00. Telephone for more information 01303 813475. Refreshments are available and home made cakes.

Legs, Bums & Tums An hour of challenging toning & groaning. Body weight exercises to music for motivation & lots of fun. Every Tuesday 18.0019.00 £5 per class, Aldington Village Hall. Yoga Thurs 6.30 - 730. Call Hayley on 07843 099912 for more information and to register your interest A New Quilting Group held in the Oak Room, Smeeth TN25 6SA. If you are interested in quilting or patchwork why not come along and learn new skills and share your expertise with like minded people. Beginners and advanced levels are welcome. Bi-monthly meetings, for further information contact Marion on 01233 750319 Stowting W.I.

We meet on the second Wednesday of the month (except August) at 7.30pm in the Peace Room. For further information please contact Jennie Cooper on 01303 862572.

Line Dancing Classes, Sellindge Village Hall. Tues Eve 7.30 – 9.30 (Intermediate), Thurs afternoon 1-3pm (easy intermediate) Thurs eve 7.30 9.30 (Intermediate) contact Maureen Lincoln 01303 813161 or 07989 210449.

Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society We meet on the last Friday of the month at Brabourne & Smeeth Village Hall, 7.15 for 7.30pm. New members and visitors will be made very welcome. For further info contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or email brabournewendy@ gmail.com.

Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society We meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month in the Aldington Village Hall at 7.45 pm for 8.00. We have a varied programme of talks, shows and social events. Visitors and new members are always welcome. For further details please contact Jean Evans on 01233 720618 or colin.e123@ btinternet.com

Aldington Short Mat Bowls Club We play on Monday nights at Aldington village hall from 7.30pm to 10.00pm. No special equipment required you only need a pair of shoes with flat soles and we can supply the woods. Go on give it a try it may be just the sport you are looking for. Interested, give Jim or Janet a call on 01233 632102

Lympne Short Mat Bowling Monday and Thursdays from 7.00 p.m. to 9.45p.m. in the Village Hall. Annual Subscription is £20.00 and the green fees are £2.00 per evening. For more information call Mick or Marian Hatton on 01303 814274

Line Dancing Classes, Sellindge Village Hall. BEGINNERS CLASS commencing Thursday afternoon 3rd October 12pm - 1pm Also (EASY Intermediate class) Thurs afternoon 1 - 3pm For more details on both these classes contact Raye Warrne on 01303 813098. Tues and Thursday eve. 7.30 - 9.30 (Intermediate classes) contact Maureen Lincoln on 01303 813161 or 07989 210449 Step at Sellindge Village Hall Sundays at 10.00 a.m. Fun fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer 01233 820109 The Sellindge Get Together Club Meet in the Durling Hall at Sellindge, next to the main hall, from 2pm to 4pm on the second Wednesday in the month. If you are interested just come to our meetings or phone 01303 813454 for more details.

Smeeth W.I. We meet on the second Monday of the Month at 7.30 pm in the Brabourne & Smeeth village hall for further information do contact Joy Taylor 01303 812165”

Body Conditioning Class at Smeeth Scout Hut, Mondays 7.00 p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair 01233 820109 Hi/Low Aerobics at Sellindge Village Hall on Wednesdays 7.00 .p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer for details 01233 820109

Zumba Fitness 7.15pm A latin inspired dance fitness class and Legs bums and Tums 8.15pm Every Wednesday Aldington village hall. Contact Leigh Little 01233 65075 3 M: 07756 726590 Yoga

Mondays 7.30-9.00pm, Warehorne Village Hall & Thursdays 10.00-11.30am, St Mary’s Oak Room, Smeeth (off the A20). £7 per class. Please call Daniela 01233860417 or 07939870826

Calligraphy Classes at St Mary’s Oak Room, Smeeth from 10.30a.m. to 12.30p.m. All welcome including complete beginners. Cost is £7 per session. For further information, please call Sue Gray on 01233 720696.

Dog Agility Classes new to Chequer Tree Equestrian Centre, Mersham on Thursday evenings.Contact: Nathan Thompson on 07795 077921 or bone-a-fidebehaviours@hotmail. co.uk

Burlesque Classes. Lympne Village Hall. Wednesday nights 8pm til 9.30pm £7. Ladies only. Get fit, have fun, feel fabulous. Whatever your size, shape or age - release your inner vixen! www.quizzicool.co.uk, click burlesque classes.

C O F F E E * C A K E S * B A C O N

St Martins Church presents….

(Proceeds to St Martins Church)

The

Plough Inn at Brabourne Lees

Tel: 01303 812169 A family friendly village pub serving affordable, home cooked food. Traditional Sunday Roasts and a fantastic Children’s Menu available, varied but nutritionally balanced.

Large Beer Garden & Parking facilities Food Served 12 - 8 Sunday 12 - 3

Family Fun Day 2nd August 10% Off

With Live Music in the Evening

COFFEE MORNING & TABLE TOP SALE

Our popular

Sunday Roast With this advert.

10AM - 1PM SAT 20 SEPT ALDINGTON VILLAGE HALL For further information, contact Patricia 720410 or Sue 720652

Under New Management

BRABOURNE BAPTIST CHURCH Plain Road, Brabourne Lees, Kent TN25 6QN Pastor Tim Simpson Tel:01303 813257 Great Big Tea Party in aid of Open Doors will be held from 3 -5pm at Goldwell Cottage on Sunday August 3. Further details from Brian Carter 01233 720265. Art Club The next meeting is on Tuesday August 12 from 10-12md. For more details please phone Mike on 01303 812484 MP’S Surgery: Our MP Damian Collins, will be holding his monthly surgery at Brabourne Baptist Church from 3.45pm to 4.30pm on Friday August 15. If you have any questions, complaints or comments, please book an appointment by e-mailing your name, post code, subject and message to: shepwayconservatives@btconnect.com or telephone 01303 253 524.

Café Wednesday Extra We will re-start on Wednesday September 10 at 12md and every second Wednesday of the following months. Soup and rolls, tea /coffee will be served costing £1. Everyone is invited; just turn up! The Café will continue to be open every Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am. Drop in for coffee biscuits, company and a warm friendly atmosphere. Choice of books available. Graham Kingston, our Community Warden, will try to be there on the first Wednesday of every month, should anyone need to see him. Church Bookings If you wish to book the church hall for a meeting or function, please phone Geoff Thorpe 01303 813152 Sunday Services: There is a regular service at 10.30am every week. Morning Worship is followed by refreshments in the side hall . The Ark: Fridays from 10am to 12noon: for babies and children under school-age with their parents/carers.

Remembrance Service Sunday August 17; A formal service to mark the 100th anniversary of the beginning of WW 1 as an act of remembrance of all who lost their lives in that war.

Lively Discussions! Home Groups meet on Wednesday evenings. Everyone is welcome to come and join us! We are very informal and friendly. Please phone Tim 01303 813257 or David 01303 814437

Church BBQ at the Manse on 7 September following the Morning Service. Further details next month.

Ladies Coffee Morning: We meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday morning of the month at 7 Calland. We

Art in Bridge Exhibition Bridge Village Hall, High Street, Bridge

Saturday 11th October 11am – 7pm

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Sunday 12 October 11am – 5pm Entrance FREE Refreshments available

Exhibitor entry form from the web site, The Bourne Gallery, Bekesbourne and in September from Colebrook Sturrock & Co, Estate Agents, High Street, Bridge Exhibits to the Hall 4.30 – 6.30 pm Friday 10th October For further information please go to www.artinbridge.org.uk

have a short time of Bible study and prayer, and we welcome all ladies. Please phone Pat 01303 812219

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Ruth Group: Meets on the first Thursday of the month at 2.15pm. All ladies are welcome. Please phone Erica 01303 814911 for more information

Bouncy Castles for all Ages Free delivery & collection Suitable for Indoor & Outdoor Special rates for weekends Schools & Event Days

Ladies Afternoon Home Group; We meet on the second Thursday of the month at 2.15pm at Corinne’s, 54 Mountbatten Way. This is a relaxed time of discussion and all ladies are welcome to come and join us! Please ring Corinne for more details 01303 812603

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Hobbies Have You Got The Baking Bug? By Kate McLelland legendary TV show, The Great British Bake Off, which features a team of amateur bakers (observed by expert judges Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry) taking part in progressively harder baking challenges over a period of ten weeks. The show promises to attract an audience of over eight million viewers when Series 5 is broadcast later this year.

In recent years baking has become a bit of a national obsession. With events such as the Sugarcraft, Cake Decorating & Baking Show visiting large conference venues in London, Birmingham and Manchester, new cake-craft shops opening in our high streets and countless community bake-offs taking place all over the country, it would appear that the UK has been well and truly bitten by the baking bug. Home baking has always featured heavily when it comes to local fundraising events: if you visit any school fete or village fair you are almost certain to find a stall heaving with homemade cakes. But nowadays you won’t just see any old cakes displayed for sale: you’ll find creations made and decorated with real flair and passion. Much of the renewed interest in what can be achieved with butter, sugar, eggs and flour can be ascribed to the BBC’s now

The first episode of GBBO traditionally kicks off with “Cakes” and it’s fitting that this aspect of baking should open the competition, as cake making and decorating has become one of the most popular hobbies in Britain today. Perhaps it is the combination of cookery and artistic skills that has captured the public’s imagination. The current trend is to create specialist cakes that are not only delicious to eat, but beautiful to look at, and bakers are now using a range of specialist tools and equipment to help them achieve stunning effects for their cake creations.

easily be turned into individual, quirky masterpieces. These little cakes can even be displayed on a multi-layered framework (a “cupcake tower”) in place of a traditional wedding cake. The name “cupcake” first appeared in an American cookery book published in 1796. They were so named because they were baked in individual pottery cups, ramekins or moulds, the size of a small teacup. Their popularity was revived in the 2000s thanks to the US TV series “Sex and the City”, when lead characters Carrie and Miranda scoffed cupcakes from New York’s famous Magnolia Bakery as they discussed their love lives. The craze is still going strong today, with UK artisan bakeries getting in on the act, using ever more exotic ingredients and themes to tempt us.

A whole industry has sprung up around cake making and decorating and it’s easy to find a vast selection of professional cutters, paper cases, novelty cake tins, sprinkles, icing figures, ribbons, boxes and cake boards, either by shopping at specialist high street outlets or by searching for cake equipment suppliers online.

These days you can buy special tin moulds for cupcakes and it’s possible to experiment with a huge range of recipes, from the ordinary (Raspberry Swirl Cupcakes) to the bizarre (Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting). Try them out on family and friends, or if you’re feeling ambitious you can even enter the National Cupcake Championships. You can view the entry guidelines at www.nationalcupcakeweek. co.uk but hurry, as the deadline for entries is 15th August.

Cupcakes are especially popular: decorated with butter cream icing, sprinkled with edible glitter and often topped with exotic decorations, they can

Although many people enjoy pottering alone in the kitchen, trying out new recipes and finding original ways to decorate their cakes, The Great British

Bake Off seems to have inspired a real enthusiasm for communal baking, whether that’s about learning together or indulging in friendly competition. It’s understandable to want to share your baking triumphs – and disasters – with someone else, and participating in a group can encourage you to try out different techniques and develop new skills. You can look up cake decorating courses in your local area by going to www. cakedecoratingcourses.co.uk or alternatively visit your local library to find out if they hold a list. If you fancy getting away from it all in order to really focus on your art, then there are a number of cake decorating short breaks and holidays available, with one day courses costing from around £100 (not including accommodation).

If you want a real holiday experience you could sign up for a cake-making course in France, with accommodation and meals included for £649 per person. See www.frenchcakebreaks.com for more details. For those who simply don’t have the money to spend on courses (having already laid out a small fortune on gourmet sprinkles), there are a number of tutorials on YouTube (www.youtube.com) that will teach you everything you need to know, from creating a basic cake mixture to advanced piping techniques. If you don’t enjoy learning alone, you can always invite a friend around to experiment with you, or get together with neighbours to create your own version of the Great British Bake Off. One thing’s for certain: there’ll be no lack of volunteers to help when it comes to tasting the results!

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health & Lifestyle

Children’s Health: Measles, Mumps and Rubella By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk These days we tend to take ‘childhood diseases’ lightly, but they can be serious – and cases have increased again as fewer parents choose to have children vaccinated.

The MMR vaccine was introduced in 1988 to protect against mumps, measles and rubella (German measles), which were common in children and hospitalised thousands of them every year. Children can still catch these diseases, particularly if they’ve not had the MMR vaccine, so here’s a quick guide to spotting symptoms and the appropriate treatment for your child. DON’T FORGET – before visiting the GP, pre-warn the receptionist so that they can take precautions to avoid the spread of infection and protect pregnant women. Rubella and measles in particular pose a significant risk to unborn babies.

MEASLES Measles is a viral disease that’s far more serious than chickenpox, German measles or mumps, and it’s potentially fatal. So it’s always best to confirm the diagnosis with the GP, and see them urgently if your child becomes very

drowsy, has difficulty breathing or has a very troublesome cough. How it starts: Similar to a bad cough and cold. Often your child’s eyes will be sore and watery. Symptoms: • Your child will begin to feel worse, with a temperature. • On the third or fourth day, a rash of red, slightly raised spots appear; it tends to begin behind the ears and spreads to the face, neck and then the rest of the body. The spots may be blotchy, but shouldn’t be itchy. • Your child’s eyes may be sensitive to light. Treatment: • Make sure they get plenty of rest and drinks. Warm drinks will ease their cough. • Give them paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort and fever. • Use Vaseline or barrier creams around their lips to protect their skin. • Gently bathe sore or crusty eyelids with warm water and keep the room dim. • If your child is having trouble breathing, has a troublesome cough or seems drowsy, see your GP urgently.

DON’T FORGET: Keep your child well away from pregnant women and those trying to conceive. If your child came into contact with any pregnant women (even before they became ill), you must let the women know - they’ll need to see their GP urgently. Incubation period: 7-12 days. Infectious period: Around four days before the rash appears until four days after it’s gone.

MUMPS Mumps is a contagious viral infection that’s passed on through infected saliva droplets that are inhaled or touched and then transferred to the nose or mouth, in much the same way as colds and flu are spread. How it starts: A general feeling of illness and discomfort, with a raised temperature. Symptoms: • Pain and swelling on the side of the face in front of the ear and under the chin. Swelling usually begins on one side, often followed by the other side. • Discomfort when chewing. • Headache, stomach ache and joint pain. Your child’s face will be return to normal size in around a week. Mumps rarely affects

health & Lifestyle boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; testes (this happens more in adults), but if your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s testes are swollen or painful, see your GP. Treatment: Visit your GP to confirm your child has mumps, as the symptoms can be similar to glandular fever or tonsillitis. Always see the GP if your child develops stomach ache and is being sick, or develops a rash of small purple or red spots or bruises.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Give your child paracetamol or ibuprofen and a hot or cold compress to ease pain in their glands. â&#x20AC;˘ Give your child plenty to drink (avoid fruit juices as they can increase saliva production and pain). Incubation period: 14-25 days. Infectious period: A few days before feeling unwell, until the swelling goes down.

GERMAN MEASLES (RUBELLA) Rubella can be difficult to diagnose, but if you think your child has it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to get it confirmed. Rubella poses a significant risk to pregnant women and their unborn babies. How it starts: Similar to a mild cold. Symptoms: â&#x20AC;˘ A rash of flat spots appears in the first day or two, usually on the face first, then spreading to the rest of the body. On pale skin the spots will look light pink. â&#x20AC;˘ The glands in the back of the neck may become swollen. â&#x20AC;˘ Often, your child wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel unwell â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they may just be a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;bit off-colourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

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Treatment: â&#x20AC;˘ Give your child plenty to drink, and paracetamol or ibuprofen if they feel unwell. Incubation period: 1520 days. Infectious period: From one week before the rash appears until at least five days after itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gone.

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health & beauty

Beauty Finding the Right Hair Style for Your Face Shape hairstyle they like, without thinking if it’s actually right for them.

38 Credit: Lisa Shepherd

How many times have you chosen a new hairstyle based on what will suit your face shape? Probably never. That’s because most women don’t even know what their face shape is, let alone take it into consideration when opting for a new do. Instead, they turn to magazines filled with pictures of the latest hair trends and photos of their favourite celebrities and choose a

Of course it’s a good idea to take inspiration from these sources - after all it’s key to staying up-to-date - but it is important to ask yourself if the style you pick out will actually best suit you, because if it doesn’t you’ll end up with an unflattering result. Get it right though, and you’ll be amazed, because the right style will make you look instantly younger and prettier. So that you can make an informed decision next time you book in at the salon, we’ve compiled our guide to finding your face shape and choosing a style that will flatter it the most.

How to Find Your Face Shape Firstly, pull all you hair back from your face and tie it up - remembering to clip back your fringe too. Then stand in front of a large

By Helen Taylor

mirror and trace the outline of your face with lipstick. Don’t include your ears. Follow the curve of your hairline and accurately trace the edges of your cheeks and chin. Next, step back from the mirror and take a look at the shape you’ve drawn. Is the shape you’ve created longer than it is wide? Or is it as wide as it is long?

Here’s what it all means: If your face is longer than it is wide and your forehead is just slightly wider than your chin, then you have an oval shaped face. But, if the shape you’ve traced resembles a circle and your cheekbones make up the widest part of your face, then you’ve got a round shaped face. However, if your forehead, cheeks and jaw are all fairly even in size and the shape you’ve drawn looks like a long rectangle with curved corners then you’ve got an oblong shaped face. If none of the above sound like you, and you’ve drawn an outline that shows

health & beauty long, pointed jaw line, broad forehead and small chin you’ve got a heart shaped face. Or maybe your shape is nearly as long as it is wide with straight sides, a broad forehead and a defined jaw, with minimal curves. That means you’ve got a square shaped face.

Here’s a list of styles that will suit your newly discovered face shape best: Oval This is the most versatile face shape, you’ll look great with long, short, straight or curly hair. Try out a variety of looks and rest assured that you’ll pull them off. Round Choose long, straight styles

with layers that are cut at the jaw line and that extend down to the ends. A graduated bob that is cut onto the face can work well - as long as it is cut shorter at the back of the head. Oblong Fringes - both straight and side swept - can work really well on long faces. If you’re in to short styles choose an angular bob with short layers that hug the chin. Heart Long hair with soft, loose curls looks great on this shape face. Choose a blunt, full fringe for a flattering result.

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Finance Credit Where Credit is Due By Ann Haldon www.cornerstonewebcontent.com If you’ve ever been refused credit, you’ll already know how demoralising it is to be held back in life. Being unable to buy your first house or a new car is bad enough but poor scores can affect your ability to take out a mobile phone contract, hire a car and can even make insurance premiums more expensive. However, you can improve the situation, and they all start with checking your credit file.

How to access credit ﬁle

your

Three main credit reference agencies exist in the UK – Equifax, Experian and CallCredit. Equifax and Experian offer a 30-day free trial (but be aware you will be charged if you don’t cancel within 30 days) or just £2 for a statutory report. CallCredit provide free access for life.

Why you should check your report It pays to check your credit file at least once a year for a number of reasons: • Lenders can make mistakes which you may be able to rectify

Are repairs to your credit ﬁle possible?

find a way to demonstrate financial responsibility.

Lots of options exist to boost your credit rating, and taking several small actions adds up to a big improvement over time.

One option may be to apply for a high interest credit card with a low limit, known as ‘creditbuilder’ cards. Provided you make payments on time for a minimum of six months, you will build a good credit file. Don’t forget to stay within your credit limit or this will damage your rating.

It’s important to remember that having no credit file at all can also hold you back. Young people just starting work are often penalised because they can’t demonstrate their ability to make regular repayments on time, and find themselves in a ‘Catch-22’ situation. Below are some easily implemented short-term fixes: • Cancel all unused credit cards by writing to the provider and cutting up the card. • Make sure you are on the electoral register so lenders can identify you and reduce the chances of fraud.

Alternatively you could apply for a ‘credit-builder’ prepaid card. This type of card involves signing an agreement for a small loan – typically around £60 – which is then repaid at over 12 months.

• Stop or reduce the number of credit applications.

Similarly, if you have a mobile phone contract, no payment defaults will lead to a good credit score over time.

• Include a landline phone number on your file, rather than just a mobile number.

Lending criteria

• Check that all information is indeed correct, including any late repayments and outstanding loan amounts mentioned.

• An overall view of historic and current borrowing is provided

• ‘Unlink’ yourself from a former partner – if they have a poor credit rating it also affects yours.

• The chances of identity theft are reduced

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For those with either no existing credit rating or a very poor score, you will need to

The interest rates on these cards can be eye-watering though, with APRs of up to 39.9% not unusual, so make sure it is always paid off in full.

A long employment history, living in one place for a long time as a homeowner, and a significant period with the same bank, all contribute towards a positive credit report. The cost of not keeping an eye on your credit file is high, so check and take action before you are presented with an embarrassing ‘declined’.

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Press Release

Ashford Honours the First World War Ashford will commemorate the start of the First World War next month with a dawn to dusk guard of honour at the town’s tank. Monday 4th August marks 100 years since the start of WWI, and towns and cities across Europe will be marking the occasion with their own special events in recognition of local contributions to the war effort.

A series of events and ceremonies have been planned by Ashford Borough Council, The British Army (133 Field Company REME), Royal British Legion, Ashford Museum and other military representatives to honour the bravery of those who left to fight on 4th August 1914, and to allow local people to mark the centenary. A commemorative service will be held at St Mary’s Church in the town centre at 10am on Sunday 3rd August, and the church will be open in the evening for people to light candles. A dawn to dusk guard of honour by 133 Field Company REME will take place at the WWI tank in St George’s Square in the town centre, where military personnel will keep vigil at the site from midnight to midnight. A guard of honour will also take place in Ashford’s memorial gardens from 9.30am to 4.30pm, organised by the Ashford Branch of The Royal British Legion. This will also include a special commemoration service at the Ashford War Memorial at 11am. People can also visit a special WWI Exhibition at Ashford Borough Museum,

Churchyard, Ashford from 9am to 6pm on the day. Ashford Borough Council will also be participating in the national LIGHTS OUT initiative, set up by Department for Culture, Media and Sport, where buildings and homes across Europe will dim their lights from 10pm – 11pm on Monday 4th August, marking the hour at which Britain entered the First World War. The event is a nod to the famous words of wartime foreign secretary Sir Edward Grey: “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our life-time.” Ashford Borough Council has arranged for Kent County Council to turn out the street lights by the Ashford tank, and the Civic Centre’s lights will be switched off, save for a single symbolic light left on for one hour. All leaseholders and operators of ABC’s other buildings have been contacted and encouraged to do the same, while Ashford residents can join in the initiative by leaving a single light or candle on in their window to join this shared moment of reflection. Full details of all community events associated with the commemoration of the First World War – including those organised by external community groups – can be found at www. ashford.gov.uk/worldwars

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useful information East Kent Strokes

Emergency 999 Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden

Crimestoppers

www.eastkentstrokes.org

101 0800 555 111

Out of Hours Doctor 0845 4349655 William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331

Samaritans

08457 90 90 90

www.samaritans.org Electricity: Southern Electric EDF Energy Gas: Natural LPG

01233 840448

SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: mssoutheast@gmail.com

Royal British Legion CPRE Kent

01233 620 167 01233 714540

National Train Enquiries www.nationalrail.co.uk 0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank

Bus Enquiries Arriva Bus Enquiries Stage Coach East Kent (Timetable) (Customer Services)

0844 800 44 11 0871 200 22 33 08456 00 22 99

Doctors Surgery Hamstreet Surgery Sellindge Surgery

01233 730190 01303 812180

Parish Councils:

Brabourne & Smeeth Mersham & Sevington

01233 623902 01233 720816

Ashford Borough Council

01233 637311

W: www.ashford.gov.uk

Ashford Gateway 0845 8 247 247 Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185 Brabourne and Smeeth Community Warden: Graham Kingston 07813 712805

Village Halls Aldington Brabourne & Smeeth Bilsington Hamstreet Mersham Smeeth Stowting Sellindge Sellindge Spts & Soc. Club

01233 720213 01303 813234 01233 720818 01233 732568 01233 503192 01303 814977 01303 863520 01303 813250 01303 812437

Veterinary Surgeons Montgomery Vets

01303 813756

Ashford Volunteer Centre Age Concern

01233 665 535 01233 620 635

www.ageconcern.org.uk

CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com W: Www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk

Macmillan Cancer Support W: www.forget-me-nots.co.uk

Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UK, Ashford Branch Contact Mike Wharrad

01233 330022

St. John Ambulance Brigade 01233 611 414

Sucklifts Cesspool Emptying Service ~ Est 1986 ~ Accredited Engineer British Water

High Pressure Jetting Service and Repair to Sewage Treatment Plants

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.

Dial a Plumber All Aspects of Plumbing & Heating Installations & Repairs

Eight Local Editions Delivered by Royal Mail to 60,000 Homes & Businesses Ashford: 20,000 homes in and around TN24 & TN23 Kennington, Willesborough, Park Farm, Kingsnorth & Great Chart

Charing Area: Charing, Pluckley, Biddenden, Smarden & Egerton.

Wye Area: Wye, Brook, Bodsham, Brabourne,Westwell, Hastingleigh, Boughton Lees, Eastwell.

Aldington Area: Aldington, Mersham, Bilsington, Bonnington, Brabourne Lees, Smeeth, Sellindge, Stanford & Stowting.

TN26 Area: Appledore, Hamstreet, High Halden, Bethersden, Hothfield, Shadoxhurst,Woodchurch, Warehorne.

Tenterden & Rye: Tenterden, St Michaels, Wittersham, Rye, Pladen.

• NO JOB TOO SMALL • NO CALL OUT CHARGE • FREE ESTIMATES • ALL WORK GUARANTEED • OAP DISCOUNT

The Marsh: Romney Marsh from Dymchurch to Dunguness.

Stour Valley: Chilham, Chartham, Godmersham, Petham, Bekesbourne Patrixbourne, Bridge., Molash.

Plumbing & Heating Services

Please note this is a summary of the towns and villages covered, we reach EVERY home and business within each postcode area.

Tel: 01233 642233

or email info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk

Mob: 07711 666 656

Reaching the homess others don’t reach!

Call 01233 720488

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