The
Village Directory March Edition • Issue 138 • Royal Mail
Aldington Area
Open Morning Saturday 10 March 2018, 9.30am to 12 noon Small Class Sizes, Individual Care Great Opportunities and Outstanding Results Visit, Explore and Discover ‘A great place to grow’ for boys and girls aged 2 to 11
01233 812337
www.springgroveschool.co.uk
DAY MOTHER’S NCH SPECIAL LU
£9.95
cinnamon
Fine Bangladeshi cuisine
For reservations call CINNAMON SPICE
FOLLOW US ON:
01233 668 731 CINNAMON
01233 668 731 Unit 4 Eureka Place, Trinity Road,Ashford, Kent TN25 4BY
50% OFF YOUR MEAL DINING IN
ON PRESENTATION OF THIS ADVERT
WWW.CINNAMONSPICEKENT.CO.UK 2
TERMS & CONDITIONS: MIN SPEND £30 • EXCLUDES DRINKS, SEAFOOD & LAMB DISHES , 1 VOUCHER PER TABLE, (MAX TABLE OF 8), EXCLUDES FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND MOTHER’S DAY, NOT IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. OFFER ENDS 31st March 2018.
Welcome Hi everyone, welcome to the March edition, at long last bright, sunny days are beginning to creep up on us, and at the end of the month we return to British Summer Time and the promise of longer days. The clocks will go Forward an hour on Sunday the 25th. As is often the case at this time of year, we have had an influx of events promising to keep us entertained to the end of April. In addition we have upgraded the Events page on our website to make it more user friendly. The new version is far more flexible than previously, enabling the calendar and events to be viewed in different ways. We are now working toward providing access for readers to add their own events, but this will require a bit more work to ensure that each event is also captured for the magazines. Until then every event sent to events@ thevillagedirectory.co.uk will be added to the magazine as well as the website, this also means that not all is lost if an event organiser misses the print deadline for a magazine entry. Last month our ‘Kids Corner’ provider failed to provide the puzzle answers in time for our print deadline. I hoped this wouldn’t cause a problem but resolving the combination to the safe presented more of a challenge than expected, prompting a response from a few parents. We thought there was an error but Sam, the young lady in my office, proved within minutes that it could be resolved, so for anyone still curious, here is the answer: The safe number that needs entering is ‘16’. Reading down the numbers increase in column 1 by 9, in column two by 6 & in column three by 3. Until next time, have a great month and don’t forget Mother’s Day on Sunday the 11th
Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk April Issue Deadline 10th Mar 2018
Oshens HairBoutique
For An Appointment Please Call
01233 811981 Closed Wednesday
100 Bridge Street, Wye TN25 5EA
DRESS MAKING & ALTERATIONS
QurnaNowCreations in Tenterden
Tel: 01580 764131
Email couch.hilary@gmail.com
NEEDLES & PINS
REPAIR AND ALTERATION SERVICE
Zips & Trouser / Skirt Shortening from £5.50 HAND SEWN CURTAINS FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY SERVICE
Call Christina 01303 864280
M & M Interiors
• Carpentry Painting & Decorating • Small Jobs to Complete Refurbishments • Outside Paintwork & Window Repairs Undertaken
Call Mike 07771 687 088 / 01233 502902
Annett Autos
All Cars, Vans & Motorbikes Bought Car Buying Service For a hassle free sale (or similar) T: 01303 647 546 Classic Cars Bought info@annettautos.com (running or not)
LogHeat
Seasoned & Kiln Dried Logs www.logheat.co.uk
07966 796 498 / 01233 733373
DRAINS Paul BLOCKED Smith Plumbing Services • Toilets • Gullies etc FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS
• High Pressure Water Jetting FREE ESTIMATES • C.C.T.V No Call Out Charge Call Surveys Paul on •01303 812965 Call 07741 290 094 07794005909
Paul Smith Plumbing Services FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS FREE ESTIMATES
Call Paul on 01303 812965 07794005909
Paul Smith Plumbing Services
3
The Garden
Get Your Soil into Shape by Pippa Greenwood Plants and gardens need a lot of different things if they are to look their best, but one of the most fundamental needs of all is soil. And the better the soil, the better the plants will perform, and the bigger the flowers and the heavier the crops. So getting your soil into good condition and keeping it well looked after is key to great gardening. At this time of year there is still time to shape up your soil before the gardening season really begins in earnest. Frosty weather can be really useful. It may wreak havoc with some of your plants, but if you garden on a heavy clay soil it can save you a lot of work. If you roughly dig or fork over an empty bed or part of your vegetable plot, the large lumps of clay soil will be acted on by the frosts and will break down somewhat, making them more manageable in the process. Most soils can become badly compacted if you walk or stand on them when they are very wet – you literally squash the air spaces out, especially if the soil is clay or even slightly heavy loam. Try to avoid walking on the soil during or just after heavy rain, but if you really can’t
4
avoid doing so use a few boards or planks as walkways to spread the load and so reduce damage to any one area. Forking a soil, as opposed to digging it with a spade, is generally best on a heavy soil as it is less likely to cause compaction. But whether you fork or dig, the soil surface usually ends up pretty lumpy. So grab a fork and re-fork the soil again, whacking the larger lumps to break them up further. A final raking will help to produce even smaller lumps on the surface and so get closer to that ‘fine tilth’ often described in gardening books. Adding bulky organic matter such as leaf mould, well-rotted manure or garden compost will help to feed the soil in a natural way, and also to improve its texture so that it holds just the right amount of moisture for as long as possible. There is still time to fork this in now, to improve the soil in time for this year’s new plantings and vegetables. You can create a great, free source of organic matter for your soil yourself and you’ll save a lot of time and money as well as being very ‘green’! Make a compost heap
or bin, and don’t let the autumn leaves go to waste – instead turn them into leaf mould, a wonderful soil conditioner to improve the soil’s texture. Incorporating some horticultural grade grit or gravel will also help to improve the texture and performance of a heavy clay soil. It is important that you avoid builders’ gravel or grit, as this often contains salts or other materials which can seriously damage, or even kill, garden plants. If your soil contains excessive quantities of small stones, or perhaps larger lumps of flint, you really should try to get to grips with it before you start to create the garden. Doing this before planting is SO much easier than attempting it once the flowers or vegetables are in place! Some stones are good, but even a lightly stony soil can make growing decent crops of root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips, virtually impossible – they may taste delicious but they’ll often be forked or otherwise deformed. If clearing the soil sufficiently really is not practicable, then you’re probably best off investing in some raised beds so that you
The Garden can fill them full of a stone-free soil. Manure can seriously transform a soil, adding both texture and food for the plants to grow healthily. Make sure that you bring in good quality manure, with as few additives as possible – not too many wood shavings for instance, as these can form a high percentage of stable manure and make it far less useful. If possible, view the manure in situ; the last thing you want to do is bring in manure which is riddled with weeds, especially the really troublesome ones like nettles, docks and couch grass. In recent years there have been problems with manure contaminated by the weedkiller used to control weeds in pastureland, which can devastate plants, often killing them. Try to source manure
from someone local who you know, and can trust to tell you what chemicals have been used. Manure needs to be well-rotted before being used in the garden – ideally it should have sat in a heap for about two years. Green manures are a great way to feed your soil and improve its condition at the same time. They will also help to suppress weeds and protect the soil from erosion in a windswept spot. They work especially well on parts of the garden where you do not have plants growing year round – as when you use a green manure, you sow seed, allow the plants to grow and then incorporate them into the soil, where they rot down and release all sorts of useful materials. Check out what is available by looking in the seed catalogues and get sowing later this year – there are
lots to choose from, including red clover, mustard, field beans, phaecelia and field lupins. Yes, there’s potentially a fair bit of work involved, but you don’t have to do everything suggested and anything you do will make a huge difference! Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com and you’ll find some great gardening things: ‘Grow Your Own with Pippa Greenwood’ (where you receive your chosen garden-ready vegetable plants in the spring accompanied by weekly advice and tips from Pippa) plus Nemaslug, bio-controls, gardening tools, raised bed kits, Grower Frames, signed books and more!
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
Top quality materials. Top quality service. Supply + Install. FREE QUOTATIONS.
Is Your Garden in Need of Some TLC?
T : 01233 877 521 | M : 07710 179 600 enquiries@woodchurchfencing.co.uk www.woodchurchfencing.co.uk
Let me do the work for you to enjoy. I also specialise in drives, patios & underground drainage.
T: 07926 377519
Tel: 01233 367038 07500 193703
• • • • •
Block Paving Resin Driveways Gravelling Crazy Paving Hot Laid Tarmacadam
• • • •
Brickwork Landscaping Fencing Turfing
Wotton Road, Ashford, TN23 6LL office@jddrivestyleltd.co.uk www.jddrivestyleltd.co.uk
Professionally Installed, Beautifully Finished No Deposits Required All work fully guaranteed for 5 years 5
The Garden
Stephen Bailey Landscaping 99Garden Landscaping 99Rock Walling 99Patios & Drives 99Fencing & Decking 99Turfing & Tree Work 99Clearance & Groundwork 99Hedge & Shrub Cutting 99Water Features
FREE ESTIMATES
Reasonable rates together with a personal and friendly service
FULLY INSURED & ENVIRONMENT AGENCY REGISTERED
Home: 01303 266552 Mobile: 07747 707409
www.baileylandscaping.co.uk Higher National Diploma in Countryside Management
The Complete Landscape Service 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
Paul Thompson Tree Surgery & Fencing
• Felling, Pruning & Shaping • Pollarding • Crown Reductions • Hedge Cutting • Garden Clearance
Tel: 01303 267267 Mobile: 07976 625330 e: info@thompsontreesurgery.co.uk w: www. thompsontreesurgery.co.uk
Professional Tree Work Fully Qualified & Insured Environment Agency Registered Council Approved Contractor 6
• Stump Grinding • Good Job For a Fair Price!
S easoned
LOGS A vailable
www.ashfordlogs.co.uk
SEASONED LOGS
Hard landscaping • Soft landscaping • Wildlife gardens • Restoration • Conservation • Consultancy Seasoned barn dry hardwood logs and barn dry softwood kindling for sale Tel: 01580 761063 / 01233 639633 Mob: 07812 245476
www.earleslandscapes.co.uk
www. .com NATIONAL AWARD WINNER FOR 3 YEARS We Are a Local Company, Installing Block Paving, Natural Stone & Slabs Landscape Designs For Driveways, Patio & Garden Paths
You’ve tried the rest now try the best. 30 years of experience Twin Wheel Tipping Lorry Load - 3.3 cu metres of Hard Wood. Seasoned for 3 years. Barn Stored and Air Dried
IDEAL TO BURN IMMEDIATELY Full Load £225 / ½ Load £135 Premium Apple Logs £20 extra per load Prompt Reliable Delivery.
Tel:- 01233 732439 or 07793 028 859
Free Quote & Advice Tel: 01797 344266 Mob: 07836 298020 Email enquiries@terswinpaving.com
‘Excellence in workmanship’
01233 225684 Homewood Landscapes - creating your perfect outdoor space Garden and Landscaping works carried out for inspirational designs and finishes. Contemporary or traditional gardens.
Block paved driveway Resin bound driveway Natural stone patio Fencing & decking Contemporary gardens Bespoke timber buildings
www.homewoodpropertycare.com
7
Mowgli by Montgomery Vets
H
ello everyone, Mowgli here! Spring finally seems to be on the way, doesn’t it? Ebony and I are really enjoying seeing more birds out and about in the garden and soon there will be lots of baby rabbits bouncing around the lawn to look at!
T
he main news this month is that I have had to have lots of tests. Turns out I am in very good shape and there is nothing wrong with me at all. Good news I guess but having tests is pretty annoying. It all started one morning when Jane came home from work at an unexpected time, disturbed my lovely morning sleep, popped me into the cat basket and before I knew it I was in the car. I couldn’t believe it! Had she forgotten that that I am very spoilt and that all my vetting gets done at home? The MOST annoying thing though was that I had not been given breakfastthat should be a tip off for all you felines that a trip to the vet might be imminent. Anyway, I made sure I let Jane know how I felt about the car trip. I managed to sick up three piles of foamy saliva in the 6 minutes it took her to drive to the clinic. I also made sure that I announced my arrival at the clinic. Those of you that have read several of my columns will know that I have a very fine Serengetil voice and that I frequently do miaow practice in the hall. This all paid off- I announced my arrival to everyone in the waiting room. No-one had to tell Clive that I had arrived. Everyone in the clinic could hear me! Several of the lovely people that work at the clinic came to help with my tests. It seemed to have been pre planned and before I knew it I was on my side with about 4 people holding and stroking me. Then someone shaved my tummy. Imagine that! All the lovely spotty fur gone from my tummy! Outrageous! Then I had a probe thing run over my tummy and lots of images came up on a screen. It was quite interesting to see what I keep in my tummy! That turned out to be all OK and then I had a blood sample taken. I howled the
8
place down about that. Then I had to prance about on Clive’s shoulder to recover and eat a lot of dreamies. Turns out my insides are perfectly fine and normal so hopefully this will stop my silly humans from worrying about me!
A
nyway, even if my humans are a bit silly at least I have a home and am well looked after. It isn’t often that the clinic has a cat in that doesn’t have a home but I can’t imagine what it is like for cats with no homes in this weather. It’s been cold at night here even when I have been under the duvet with my head on the pillow!
E
bony and I are very lucky as we have always felt wanted, although I know for lots of creatures this isn’t true. The Clinic does quite a bit of work with various rescue charities and Clive often comes home with very sad stories of cats
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.
Open 7 days a week Full emergency service Ample Free Parking
CALL 01303 813756
www.montgomeryvets.co.uk
that have been abandoned or given up. These cats of course though are the lucky ones because they are well looked after by the charities and find new homes. I can’t imagine what it would be like without a fire to curl up near, a warm bed to sleep on (or in if it gets really cold) and a family of humans to entertain and torment. I tell you, Clive and Jane would get nothing done if they didn’t have Ebony and I to help them!
~ Mowgli
Integrated Pest Management Services • Wasps • Bees • Rats • Mice. • Flies • Moths • Ants • Cockroaches • Moles • Squirrels • Fleas • Bird Spikes
The Home
ASHFORD SOUTH
T: 01233 372200
Bring this ashfordsouth@howdens.com advert to receive a FREE GIFT with your FREE KITCHEN SURVEY
New Depot - Come join us for a tea or coffee. Best prices in town!
Kitchens and Joinery
Fast, Friendly and Reliable - Fully Insured Domestic and Commercial
Designed and Made by Howdens
e: info@spotlightpestcontrolkent.co.uk
Unit 5, Axiom Orbital Park, Orbital Park, Sevington, Ashford, Kent, TN24 0AA
Contact Dave on 07715
211 899
www.spotlightpestcontrolkent.co.uk
BENSKO Pest Control Services
DOMESTIC - COMMERCIAL - INDUSTRIAL
Fast effective service for the removal of all pests. Family Run - Fully Insured. Authority Approved.
WASPS ANTS FLEAS FLIES RATS
Tel: 01303 487401 Mobile: 07857 344770 e: bensko@talktalk.net www.benskoservices.co.uk
MICE MOLES SQUIRRELS COCKROACHES
Supplied and fitted by your local builder
BENSKO Chimney Sweeping Services • Brush and Vac • Every Type of Flue Swept • Pots, Cowls & Bird Guards Fitted • NAC’s Certificates Issued • Fully Insured Friendly, Clean, Reliable Service
T: 01303 487401 M: 07857 344770
www.benskoservices.co.uk e: bensko@talktalk.net
A CLEAN CHIMNEY IS A SAFE CHIMNEY SJH Pest Control Helpful advice and control of rats, moles and all public health Tel: pests. BPCA/RSPH award 01303 875282 in pest management. Mobile: Fully insured. 07933 712442 Free callout. 9
Home & Interiors Spring Clean with Style
By Katherine Sorrell
Sweep, brush, wash and scrub. When spring sunlight shows up the corners of your home that need attention, it’s time to pop on your pinny and get to work. And cleaning is so much more enjoyable when the tools you use are both efficient and good-looking. Get your cleaning kit in order: drawers, shelves and hooks will all help. Collection of laundry and utility items, all Garden Trading.
Tips for efficient cleaning • For a proper fresh start, begin by tidying all the mess that has built up over the last year. Sort it out into piles of rubbish, things to give away, stuff that needs mending and everything else that needs to find a rightful home. Ta da! You have created much more space in your home and plenty of room to get cleaning. • Be prepared. Work out what jobs you are going to tackle, wear appropriate clothing and gather together all the necessary tools and products. A spacious caddy will come in very handy. • Divide tasks into five key areas: vacuuming, dusting, mopping/ scrubbing, washing and wiping, and polishing. Don’t forget specific jobs such as turning mattresses, spot-cleaning upholstery, cleaning the oven, defrosting the fridge, descaling the shower head and beating rugs. You may also get super-organised and add in those less frequent tasks such as steamcleaning the carpets or having the chimney swept. • Your basic principles of cleaning should be to work from top to bottom and tackle dry chores before wet ones. Decide whether to do one room at a time or one task at a time throughout the whole house. Put some music on and enjoy the process – your home will be gleaming before you know it.
10
Robust, good looking and comfortable in the hand, this brush could be used for virtually anything. Scrubbing brush, £8, Finch & Crane.
Store your household essentials in one convenient place – a functional and good looking box that’s perfect for carrying round the house. Living Nostalgia French grey housekeeping tin, £24.95, Kitchen Craft. With a warm, inviting and natural scent, this polish is made by a beekeeper in the Cotswold Hills. The cream formula helps to clean and nourish wooden furniture and floors, and is great for cleaning leather, too. Cotswold beeswax polish, £12, Cottage in the Hills.
Made from cotton and cellulose, these cloths are washable and re-usable, and then 100% biodegradable. Jangneus green spot dishcloth, £3, Berry Red.
From the slender yet sturdy oil-treated beech handles to the traditional horsehair bristles and aesthetically pleasing pan, these sets have a minimalist yet functional beauty. Iris Hantverk long-handled dustpan set in black, £55, Caroline McGrath.
The Home Put a touch of charm into cleaning with a traditionally-styled dustpan and brush made from hardwearing galvanised metal and responsibly sourced wood. Dustpan and brush set, £8, Garden Trading.
When designer Ole Jensen was doing the dishes, he hesitated to pile in his fragile china and glasses, wondering about a better, gentler solution. These smart rubber washing up bowls are now a design classic. Normann Copenhagen washing up bowl, £49, Caroline McGrath.
01233 668736
Evegate Business Park, Smeeth TN25 6SX
01303 268820
26 High Street, Hythe CT21 5AT www.homestyleblindskent.co.uk Info@homestyleblindskent.co.uk
Visit our showrooms or give us a call for a great deal on Shutters and Blinds 11
Local Restauranteur Warms Up Ashford Winter Shelter As part of his wish to support all sections of Ashford communities during his time of office, the Mayor of Ashford, Cllr Winston Michael, fulfilled a desire to meet and speak with the homeless of Ashford this week. He visited the Ashford Winter Shelter at the Christian Fellowship centre in Bank Street on the evening of 6th February 2018. The Mayor helped serve a special meal donated by local restauranteur, Ash Miah, owner of Cinnamon Spice Restaurant in Eureka Place, Ashford, who is equally as keen to support this well-deserved resource.
Churches Together and each day of the week a local church hosts the homeless for the night, giving them a place to get warm, have a good night’s sleep, eat a nutritious meal and provide support.
The Shelter Coordinator, Kareen McDonald explained, “It is a brilliant opportunity to look after the homeless in our community. Through an incredible number of volunteers and help from local businesses the Winter The Winter Night Shelter, coordinated by Kareen Shelter provides the vital support McDonald, returned to Ashford in December 2017 through the coldest part of the year and will continue until March 2018. It is run by Ashford and beyond.” Marcus South, Deputy Coordinator added, “Our vision is to raise the funds for a full time centre which will deliver a range of services to provide hope and support to individuals and families experiencing deprivation and hardship, through Christian care and compassion.” Cllr Winston Michael, the Mayor of Ashford expressed his praise for the work being undertaken by the team and the volunteers and also for the exceptional support from the local community. “From my experience this evening, I wish to commend Kareen, Marcus and all those involved in helping turn lives around at the shelter by providing a range of welfare and accommodation and actively helping build relationships through acceptance and respect. “I will be supporting the proposal for a full time service-lead centre for the Ashford area and assisting in any way possible to make this dream a reality.” Ash Miah, owner of Cinnamon Spice with the Mayor of Ashford, Cllr Winston Michael
12
The Home
Mersham
Seven bedroom detached village property, offering flexible accommodation and far reaching countryside views.
£550,000
Brabourne Lees
Situated within a select cul de sac, this very spacious extended four bed detached property occupies an excellent plot in excess of 0.25 acre within the heart of the village.
£495,000
Sellindge
This very spacious three bed end of terrace house backs straight onto open countryside, offering an excellent opportunity to obtain a family home in a great location.
£259,995
Brabourne Lees
Hastingleigh
An extremely well presented and maintained four bed detached property with integral garage. It offers light and bright spacious accommodation with sitting room with brick built fireplace and wood burning stove.
A charming two bed period cottage situated in a lovely quiet lane on the edge of the village, situated in an AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY.
£450,000
£425,000
Smeeth
Hastingleigh
This beautiful attached cottage was originally two cottages built around the mid 19th century and then made into one stunning property and extended further at a later date.
(View from the Plot) Planning permission has been granted in August 2016 by Ashford Borough Council (number 16/00707) to construct a three-bedroomm detached bungalow.
£475,000
£295,000
Mersham
Sellindge
Believed to date back to the 1600’s this pretty Grade II listed two-bedroom semi-detached cottage is packed with wonderful original features.
This two-bedroom bungalow is a great opportunity to purchase a good sized semi-rural property in very good order at an excellent price.
£245,000
£210,000
LEES ROAD • BRABOURNE LEES • Nr ASHFORD • KENT TN25 6QB
SALES: 01303 812515 • LETTINGS:01303 812541 www.stevenjmooreestateagents.co.uk
13
Quality, Made to Measure Blinds at Affordable Prices FREE HOME DESIGN SERVICE
■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■ ■■
Roller Blinds Roman Blinds Vertical Blinds Venetian Blinds Wooden Blinds Pleated Blinds Shutters Conservatory Blinds Commercial Blinds
■■ 1 Year Product Guarantee ■■ 3 Year Installation Guarantee
We Also Sell Curtains & Awnings For more information or to book an appointment
Call: 01233 226570 QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS
E: info@jlsblinds.co.uk W: www.jlsblinds.co.uk
The simple way to a new kitchen... EST.
Before
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
CALL FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE:
01233 228705
www.dreamdoors.co.uk 14
®
Visit our showroom: 48 Cinque Ports Street, Rye, TN31 7AN
Why replace when you can reface?
The Home
Smeeth War Memorial
WINDOW WORLD OF KENT
www.windowworldofkent.co.uk T: 01233 642 322
The New Standard in Composite Doors Affinity 4 hook door lock, smooth & reliable ABS Anti Snap Secure Technology Dedicated 70mm composite door outer frame Affinity Handles with fully contoured grip Affinity Letterboxes - Full metal surround - salt spray tested
• Also Energy Rated Windows & Doors in PVCu • Electric Roller Doors • Misted Glass Units Replaced • Conservatories • Porches
ALDINGTON
PARISH MEETING ANNUAL PARISH MEETING 7.30pm, Tues 10 April 2018,
n Eco Centre, Goldwell Lane Aldington Eco Centre, Goldwell Lane Come along to hear from: • Your Parish Council • Your local authority representatives • Local churches • Local service providers • Local clubs and societies
In 1919 the villagers of Smeeth gathered
around the newly dedicated War Memorial which stands outside the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Smeeth on Church Road to recognise the sacrifice of the 22 named villagers who had died during the First World War. Additionally a further five names were added at a rededication service in 1947 recognising those from the village who had died during the Second World War. The Memorial, a rough hewn granite wheel cross is now in need of some restoration work and the site once accessible from Church Road, is now limited by the brush growth that is around it and is generally unsuitable for any remembrance celebration. With the 100th Anniversary of the ending of the Fist World War later this year, it has been suggested that the Memorial itself is cleaned and the lettering refreshed and the area around the memorial be cleared and made accessible for both private and public remembrance. A fund has been set up to generate the monies needed for the renovation and events will take place around the area to raise the money to finish the work. It is hoped that this will be completed by July and that a new re-dedication service be held in September. Your help and support would be gratefully received. For further information please contact George Taylor, Smeeth War Memorial Renovation Fund on 01303 812165 or email joyandgeorge@ talktalk.net St Martins Church Aldington invites you to our
There will also be an Open Forum and presentations from Otterpool Park planners and other guest speakers
Parish Council Contact: Peter Setterfield, Clerk, 01233 721757 s from Otterpool Park planners and clerk@ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk www.ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk
33 721757, clerk@ald-
£5 PER TABLE. TO BOOK PLEASE CALL: Sue 01233 720652 Proceeds to charity.
[Type here]
Aldington Village Hall
15
March Medley This month’s collection of recent releases includes modern fairy tales, a psychological thriller and historical fiction at its finest.
16
The Toymakers – Robert Dinsdale It’s 1917 and pregnant teenager Cathy Wray seeks sanctuary at a London toy store. She soon discovers that these toys are unlike any she’s ever seen before. There’s a clockwork dog that’s devoted to his master, paper trees that grow from seed, and toy soldiers that wage battles on their own. Cathy learns to call The Emporium home, and the people who own it her family. But then the First World War breaks out, and nothing will ever be quite as magical again. The Toymakers is a must for fans of Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus.
Happiness For Humans – P.Z. Reizen Romantic comedy meets sci-fi in this enjoyable novel. Aiden’s creators know that he’s an intelligent piece of software, which can read books in under a millisecond, review films and tell jokes. What they don’t know is that Aiden has developed feelings, or that his favourite person is Jen, who helps develop Aiden’s conversational skills. Aiden decides Jen would be happier in a relationship, so sets her up on a date. But Aiden isn’t the only intelligent AI on the loose, and not all of them have such good intentions.
The Sacrifice Box – Martin Stewart Five friends make a pact one summer’s day, when they find an old stone box in the woods. Several years later, one of them breaks the rules and dark forces are unleashed, including a killer teddy bear, zombie crows and a demonic puppet. The five must put aside their differences and come together to appease the box before it’s too late. Aimed at teens and young adults, The Sacrifice Box is a winning blend of coming of age drama and supernatural horror.
White Chrysanthemum – Mary Lynn Bracht Approximately 200,000 young Korean women and girls were enslaved by the Japanese army in the Second World War. Thousands of these ‘comfort women’ died from the abuse they experienced. White Chrysanthemum tells the fictional story of 15 year old Hana, who is kidnapped after stepping in to rescue her little sister, Emi. Several decades later, we meet Emi in her desperate last attempt to find out what happened to Hana all those years ago. While White Chrysanthemum is, at times, painful to read, it’s
impossible to put down and a must-read for lovers of historical fiction. The Beginning of the World in the Middle of the Night – Jen Campbell This collection of modern fairy tales is dark, twisted and beautiful, and range from the macabre to the heart-warming. You’ll read about a mermaid in an aquarium, a boy who suspects his sister has two souls, and a man who uses animal hearts to keep his girlfriend’s love. There are elements of well-known myths and fairy stories, but this collection is more Brothers Grimm than Disney. Captivating. Everything Is Lies – Helen Callaghan Sophia arrives home one day to find her mother dead and her father lying in a pool of blood. The police are convinced it’s a clear case of attempted murdersuicide, and Sophia is the only one who can prove her mother’s innocence. As she delves into her mother’s past, she uncovers tales of a secret cult, and learns more about her family, and herself, than she could ever have imagined. A tense psychological thriller with plenty of twists and turns.
The Home
Olson Timber Buildings, bespoke quality & style Our garage and carriage house ranges offer stylish, top quality timber car storage solutions at competitive prices. Whether you are looking for a large space to keep your car protected and safe, or an additional area for storage, our bespoke service can provide you with the best solution to suit your requirements. Carriage Houses ● Garages ● Workshops ● Home Offices ● Stables
Call: 01227 696111 Email: sales@ot-buildings.com Visit: www.olsontimberbuildings.com
STANFORD Conservatory & Building COMPANY www.stanfordconservatories.co.uk All Work Fully Insured Start & Completion Times Guaranteed
• • • • •
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 17
L i v e Ja z z 2018
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 Website: www.towertheatrefolkestone.co.uk March 1st Brandon Allen Quartet play the
music of Gene Ammons
March 8th Alan Barnes Sextet play Duke Ellington & Johnny Hodges March 13th Craig Milverton Quartet play Oscar Peterson March 22nd From New York City -Marlene verPlanck & her trio March 29th Derek Nash Accoustic Quartet April 5th
Mornington Lockett Quartet
April 12th Gordon Campbell / Chris Dean
Quintet
April 19th From The Award Winning Back to Basie Orchestra, Paul Lacey’s Basie Express April 24th Direct from Ronnie Scotts
Alex & Willie Garnett Quintet
T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b i s a n o n p r o f i t m a k i n g j a z z c l u b. R u n b y & fo r p e o p l e w i t h a l i k e m i n d e d i n t e re s t i n OUR KIND OF MUSIC D e r i c k Wo o d l a n d 0 1 3 0 3 2 6 0 3 3 0
18
Ma r c h
3rd The Foundry Group presents ‘The Ministry of Biscuits’. A satirical musical comedy inspired by Orwell’s 1984 and the Ealing Comedies. A hit at the Edinburgh Fringe 2017. Tickets £10 each from Appledore Village Stores. Licensed bar. 5th Woodchurch Local History Society meets on the first Monday of the month at the Memorial Hall, Woodchurch, 7:30pm. Our March talk is by Alex Ferris and is titled ‘Plague Doctor of the Weald’. Our April 2nd talk is by Barbara Turner and called ‘Taking Stock - the Hawkhurst Connection’ - this presentation will unveil how the Gunther family helped to change our cuisine in the 20th century. New members are very welcome (subscription £10 annually) and visitors pay £2 at the door. For information, ring Geoff on 01233 860393. 9th Woodchurch Film Society will be showing ‘The Moutain Between Us’. Time: doors open 7pm for 7.30pm screening. Tickets: £4 (members), £5 (non-members). All available at the door. Venue: The Memorial Hall, The Green, Woodchurch TN26 3PF. Refreshments: hot & cold drinks plus our usual delicious home-made cakes for sale during the interval 10th Aldington Coffee Morning/ table Top Sale at Aldington Village Hall 10.00am to 1.00pm. £5 per table, to book please call 01233 720652. 10th Spiritualist Meetings held every Saturday evening at Highbury Hall, Highbury Lane, Tenterden, TN30 6LE. Doors open at 6pm ready for 6.30pm start. Refreshments afterwards. 10th - Paul Broadway. CS. 17th - Jill Larking, photo readings, please bring a photo of a loved one. £5. 24th - Vicky Diprose. £4. EC. 31st - Pauline Mason. A very good Medium. CS. All are welcomed, PS - We also have a page on Facebook, Tenterden Spiritualist Centre. 12th Smeeth W.I. are looking forward to their March meeting, an ‘Easy Chocolate Liquers Workshop’ when Margaret Palmer will demonstrate and instruct. This will be at Brabourne and Smeeth Village Hall at 7.30pm. Lady visitors are most welcome to join us and for further information please contact Joy Taylor 01303 812165 or Margaret Garret 01303 813932. 17th The first event of the High Halden Horticultural Society ‘s year is a quiz night in the Memorial Hall at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Entry is £3, there will be a great raffle, bring your own refreshments. Contact 850579 to reserve a table 18th Woodchurch Scouts Quiz 7.30pm - at The Bonny Cravat, Front Road, Woodchurch, TN26 3QQ. Teams of 2-6 people, £2.50 per head. Grab some friends and just turn up on the night. Or come along
and we’ll aim to put you with a team. Monthly raffle (prize donations always welcome) 20th Ashford Flower Club is hosting a floral art demonstration by Robin White, entitled ‘The Link is Green’ It will take place at Furley Hall, Maidstone Road, Ashford TN24 8TX, starting at 7.30pm. All demonstrated arrangements will be raffled at the end of the evening. You could be one of the winners, so come along and meet us. Visitors £4.00 at the door. 21st The Weald of Kent Computer Club will meet in Biddenden New Village Hall at 7.30 pm. This evening the subject will be “ Displaying a smartphone screen on your T.V. Synchronising data between internet connected devices” Annual membership is £10.00. Non-members are welcome at £2 a visit. Full details: http://www. wealdofkentcomputerclub.co.uk/. Enquiries: secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk 23rd Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society will meet 7.15 for 7.30pm in the village hall when we will be holding our Annual Spring Show followed by a light hearted quiz. Entries for the Show to be submitted by 20th March and staging takes place from 6.30 until 7.20 pm. For further enquiries please contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813 451 or email brabournewendy@gmail.com. Visitors will always be made welcome.
What’s On The Friends of St Margaret’s Church Bethersden Registered charity no. 296611
A CONCERT OF CHORAL AND ORGAN MUSIC BY
SATURDAY 7th APRIL 2018 at 7.30 pm in St Margaret’s Church, Bethersden.
ADMISSION BY TICKET ONLY: £15.00 Cheques payable to The Friends of St. Margaret’s Church with an SAE to the Secretary, 47 Orchard Field, Bethersden, TN26 3AW. Telephone: 01233 820989/820616 Email: marian.draper44@gmail.com Wine will be on sale before the concert and in the interval.
24th Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society will be holding their Spring Show in the village hall. The show will include floral arrangements, cookery and crafts as well as cut and container grown flowers. The Show will be open from 1.00pm until the prize giving at 3.30 and tea will be served. Visitors will be most welcome. For further details contact Jean Evans 01233 720618. 28th The Biddenden Horticultural Society meets in the New Village Hall. We are delighted to have a return visit from Jacqueline Aviolet. Her topic this time will be “Hardy Geraniums – History and Propagation”. If you would like our events calendar for 2018 contact Irene Orsborne on 01580 291777 or Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931 or visit the website www.biddendenhorticulturalsociety. co.uk. Our usual fees for Village Hall meetings are Members £2, Non Members £3. Annual membership £5. New members always welcome 30th Lydd Airport Art Exhibition. Easter Weekend 12.00 - 5.00 Sat & Sun, 31st March & 1st April 10.00 5.00, 2nd April 10.00 - 4.00. Free admission and car parking. Refreshments available in restaurant. Local Artists supporting the Air Ambulance. Further info Anita Warden 01797 367734
19
Ap r i l
7th High Halden Horticultural Society holds it’s Spring Show in the Memorial Hall. Staging is from 9.30am to 11.30 am and the show opens to the public at 2.30pm with prizes presented at 3.15pm. This is a fun village event. Please support us. 7th Little Chart Spring Flower show will be held in the Parish Hall at 3pm. Entries welcome. Schedules available from Julie Lllwall 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. 14th The next musical event at St Mary’s Smeeth will be our Spring event. All are warmly invited to come and join in well known, and lesser known, forgotten and new hymns. We look forward to seeing you if you can join us. 25th Woodchurch Art Society will be holding their Annual Art Exhibtion at the Woodchurch Memorial Hall. 25th May - 7-9pm, 26th & 27th May - 10am - 4pm. Over 200 paintings on display, raffle, tombola, Watercolour challenge, cards and paintings for sale. Delicious home made cakes and refreshments. Everyone welcome - FREE ENTRY.
Auctioneers
C&T
Valuers
Specialist Auctioneers & Valuers - Toys -Teddy Bears & Dolls -Military Items -Antique Collectibles -Coins -Memorabilia -Fountain Pens -Clocks & Watches
Free Valuations Every Thursday 11:00 - 3:00 Unit 4, High House Business Park, Kenardington, Ashford, Kent TN26 2LF
Tel: 01233 510050 Email: enquiries@candtauctions.co.uk
www.candtauctions.co.uk
20
Carpets, V & Lamin
Free measuring and no obligation estim We will match any genuine like for lik
Carpets, Vinyls & Laminates
-Turk’s- 10% OFF Flooring
Any Carpet on Presentation Find us on Facebook of this Advert.
01233 2395544
Flooring Specialist We move furniture free of charge! Free mobile showroom home visits
Turk’s Flooring
Come and meet Flooring the team!
specialist
info@turksflooring.com 239554 wil Gary, Jason & Lee are ready01233 to offer theirWeexpe www.turksflooring.com
�looring Units 2 & 3, Stafford Close, Ashford, Kent in TN23 4TT Ashford, Kent TN23 4TT (Off Leacon Road) Family Run Business (Off Leacon Road, 500 yards from Matalan Units 2 & 3, Stafford Close,
info@turks�looring.com About us www.turks�looring.com
Opening hours - Mon - Fri:run 8.00am - 5:30pm & Sat: 9.00 We are an independent, family business, who pri
F
Designer kitchens without the
selves on our high level of customer service,. We feel
designer price tags!
our job to make it as easy for you as possible when it c
Find us on Facebook
the selection and installation of your new �loor cov
Fl
Email: info@aloninteriors.co.uk Website: www.aloninteriors.co.uk
We can bring our samples out to the comfort of you
home, or you can pop into our showroom and have a
our extensive range of Carpets, Vinyls & Laminat
Now offering interest free credit*
(Off Le
We can offer an uplift and disposal ser
Terms and conditions apply*
Opening hours - Mon -
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
HOMEFRESH CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING 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 21
Cake and Bake Banana and Walnut Loaf If you have overripe bananas in the fruit bowl then don’t bin them – just whizz up this delicious moist loaf cake instead. It will keep for up to 5 days wrapped in greaseproof paper or foil and stored in an airtight tin.
Ingredients: • 175g unsalted butter, softened • 175g light soft brown sugar • 225g self-raising flour • 2 tsp ground mixed spice • ½ tsp baking powder • 3 medium eggs • 75g walnut halves, roughly chopped • 2 large ripe bananas, peeled and mashed with 2 tsp lemon juice • Icing sugar, to dust
Makes 10 Slices
22
Ready in 1 hour 45 minutes, plus cooling time
1.
Preheat the oven to 170C, Fan 150C, Gas 3. Grease and line the base and the two long sides of a 900g loaf tin with baking paper.
2.
Place the butter, sugar, flour, spice, baking powder and eggs in a large bowl and beat with an electric whisk until thoroughly combined - this will take about 4-5 minutes. Fold in the walnuts and mashed bananas.
3.
Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and level the surface. Bake for 1hour - 1 hour 15 minutes until risen and golden and a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean.
4.
Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes then turn out onto a cooling rack and cool completely. Dust thickly with icing sugar.
TIP Add a creamy soft frosting instead of the dusting
of icing sugar, if liked. Simply beat 100g full-fat soft cheese with 100g very soft unsalted butter until smooth, then beat in 100g sifted icing sugar.
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
Derek Hales
Getting The Job Done No Matter How Big or Small
MASTER TILER
Specialist in all Forms of Wall and Floor Tiling
• • • • • •
Clean, friendly and reliable For your free quotation call Derek
07905 700 142 Mersham Based
Handyman Services Kitchens Bathrooms Tiling Painting Plastering
• • • • •
Patios Decking/Pergolas Fencing Turfing Jet Washing
FREE QUOTES
Tel: 01233 500676 e: kingspm54@gmail.com 07563 666322 / 07949 955919
Free Surveys
www.cosystovesandfireplaces.co.uk
yy Wood Burner Installations yy Chimney Sweeps T: 01303 311048 yy Servicing M: 07387 576483 Showroom: Main Road, Sellindge, Ashford TN25 6EQ
• • • • •
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!
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 23
Food & Domestic Services
Cajun Meatballs
with Herb & Tomato Couscous
Serves 4
Ready in 45 minutes
Mince always makes a great speedy supper – here lean pork mince is spiced up with Cajun seasoning and rolled into meatballs.
FOR THE MEATBALLS • 450g lean minced pork • ½ red onion, peeled and finely chopped • 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed • 25g fresh white breadcrumbs • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (see TIP) • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 tbsp freshly chopped coriander • 1 tbsp sunflower oil FOR THE COUSCOUS
• 225g couscous • ½ red onion, finely chopped • 8 sun-blush tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 3 tbsp freshly chopped coriander
• 2 tbsp olive oil 24
To make the meatballs, place the pork, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Cajun seasoning and coriander in a food processor. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for a few seconds until thoroughly mixed. Alternatively, mix well with clean hands. Shape the mixture into 24 meatballs. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan and fry the meatballs for 10-15 minutes until browned and cooked through. Shake the pan frequently to turn the meatballs. Meanwhile, place the couscous in a large bowl and pour over enough boiling water to just cover the grains. Leave to soak for about 10 minutes until all the liquid has been absorbed. Separate the grains by stirring with a fork. Add the onion, tomatoes, coriander and olive oil and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Divide the hot couscous between four serving bowls. Thread the cooked meatballs onto metal skewers and serve on top of the couscous. Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of spices, chilli powder and herbs such as thyme and TIP oregano. You’ll find it on the spice racks in the supermarket.
Repairs to... Washing Machines Cookers (Electric) Tumble Driers Dyson Vacuum Specialist Call Garry on 07958 640152 01233 632329
Dirty Oven?
It’s not your fault! With busy, hectic lives and off the shelf cleaning products that don’t seem to do the job, keeping the oven clean feels an impossible task. Let Oven Wizards take care of this job for you. We use a specialist, non-toxic and effective process to get your oven looking spotless and take pride in working tidily in your home. Over 10,000 local customers trust us to make their oven sparkle! Take a look at our website to see before & after pictures and read their reviews. Professional oven cleaning from just £49 £44 Call James to book your clean oven!
01233 210 662 07751 833 305
www.ovenwizards.com
Advertise Here 25% OFF (£26.25 per month plus vat) Min 4 month booking, Limited availability.
Local Markets 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 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: 01580 753062 Wye First and third Saturday of every month on the Village Green in Wye. Tel: 07804 652156 www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk
Tel: 01233 720488
e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk 25
Kid’s Corner
26
Kid’s Corner
Ofsted rated OUTSTANDING in all areas Open 8-6 All Year Full Day Care Holiday Club Breakfast and After School Club Free Early Education 3 and 4 year olds 15 and 30 Hours Free For 2 (can all be ‘stretched’ if required)
Enquires O1303 814968 Office@little-learners-pre-school.co.uk Website WWW.little-learners-pre-school.co.uk 27
Moving House with Children by Kate Duggan kateduggan.co.uk
The thought of leaving friends and going to a new school, coupled with the anxiety of the unknown, can make moving house very unsettling for children. Kate Duggan recently moved house with ten days’ notice. (She wouldn’t recommend it.) Here are some of her top tips for helping children to cope with a big move. Involving your child If possible, take your child to see the new house before the move, and explore the area together. Involve them in small decisions: “Where do you think this should go?” “What colour shall we paint your room?” You could also let your child choose some wall decals for their bedroom and a new duvet cover or rug. That being said, they will want familiar items around them. The day before you move, help them to pack a suitcase with everything they’ll need for the next couple of days, including a favourite teddy, a book, a game and so on.
28
Don’t stress about decluttering While you may be desperate to declutter ahead of the move, your child may not cope with the extra pressure of giving up toys and clothes, even those that have been languishing in a cupboard for months. Don’t force them into getting rid of things if they don’t want to. You could suggest packing items that they’re not sure about into a box for the loft, with the agreement that you’ll both open it and sort through everything a few months after the move.
Talk to your child Explain why you’re moving house, whether it’s due to needing to pay less rent or because you’ve found a better area to live in. Talk about how your child is feeling about the move. What are they worried about, and what can you do to alleviate those worries? So, for example, if they’re worried about a new school, could you ask their teacher to help you arrange a playdate before your child starts at the school? If they’re upset about leaving friends, can you arrange meetups or Skype calls?
Making family time When your to-do list is three feet long, it’s really difficult to carve out any quality time to spend with your family, but do try. Leaving the boxes for 20 minutes so you can play a board game can help to avoid a potential meltdown later on. All of you will benefit from getting away from the house for a couple of hours now and then, ideally for some fresh air and time to focus on each other.
Make time for yourself Moving is stressful. And when you’re stressed, it’s very easy to lose your temper with the kids when they’re being particularly whingy or difficult. So try to take some time out to recharge your own batteries. You might find relaxation techniques useful, or just kicking back with a glass of wine and a film now and then may help.
Aldington Messy Play Group
The Home
The toddler group is a non profit volunteer run community group. Children from birth to school age are welcome, we run in the holidays too and older siblings are also welcome. Rebecca and Claire took over the group in September and together formed a committee with three other parents. They have turned it around, introducing messy play every week, crafts every week and numbers have gone from 6 attendees to 42. Many weeks have a theme, although the ultimate theme is to allow the children to have fun and get messy! There is a quiet, soft corner for babies too. We serve hot and cold drinks to parents and carers, and the children all sit down for a healthy snack half way through. We also sell a slice of cake each session to raise a few pennies too. This goes towards rent and craft/messy play items. Contact aldingtonmessyplaygroup@gmail.com or our Facebook page Aldington Messy Play Group.
29
Clubs & Societies
Aldington Ladies Gentle Exercise Club Wednesday afternoon 2-4.30pm at Aldington Village Hall. Fee £4 per session . Wear comfy clothes and non-slip socks if possible. Contact Anne Warrener 01303 812703. looking forward to seeing you! 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 Corner Quilters is a long established group of friendly ladies meeting on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at Aldington Village Hall, 7.00pm - 9.00pm. We have a mix of beginners and experienced ladies who share their latest projects and ideas. We always welcome new members so if you are interested come along one evening and meet us. For more details contact Julie Coney - quirkyjules@gmail.com or 01303 813944 (eve). Aldington Tennis Club We are a social / family Tennis Club encouraging all ages and abilities to play. Flood lights and coaching enable us to play all year with our members from around the local villages. All the information is listed on our web site www.aldingtontennisclub.co.uk Aldington WI on 3rd Mon every month. All ladies welcome, 7 for 7.30 at The Walnut Tree, Aldington. 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. Ashford Decorative & Fine Arts Society (part of NADFAS). A great way to expand your knowledge of the arts, with inspiring monthly lectures given by some of the countries top experts, together with days of special interest and arts visits. All lectures are in Aldington Village Hall, usually on the third Tuesday of each month, from September to June. Membership is open to all. www.ashforddfas.org.uk Bilsington Ladies meet in Bilsington Village Hall 2nd Thurs. of month at 2.15pm. Interesting speakers and a warm welcome awaits. Call Jan 01233 641820. The Brabourne and Smeeth Branch of the Royal British Legion meet every first Tuesday in the month at the Brabourne Baptist Church at 7.30 pm. New Members area always welcome, please contact George Taylor 01303 812165 or Ron Cooper 01303 813330 Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society We meet on the last Friday of the month at Brabourne & Smeeth Village Hall, 7.15 for 7.30pm. (No meeting in December) New members and visitors will be made very welcome. For further info call Wendy Sanders 01303 813451 brabournewendy@gmail.com.
30
East Kent Morris Men Do you like dancing, beer, socialising, music, having fun? Why not try Morris Dancing? We are recruiting for new members. Weekly Wednesday dance practices at Mersham Village Hall, 8pm to 10pm; afterwards we practise drinking in the pub opposite! No experience required. Why not give it a try? Details from www.ekmm.org.uk or 01795 536 262 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 Sellindge Gardening Association With effect from Jan ‘18 meetings will take place on Friday afternoon. The change will begin 19th Jan 1.45pm for 2pm. Our programme includes speakers, a summer show, social events, day trips and an annual holiday. For further details contact Linda on 01303 813288. 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. 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 813932 or Margaret Garret 01303 813932. Stanford & Postling WI meet in the committee room at the rear of Lympne Village Hall on the 3rd monday of every month. we are a small but friendly group who would love to wlecome new members. For any further information please contact Elaine on 01303 863096 or Iona on 01303 238390. The Get Together Club meet second Wednesday of the month in the Durling Hall, Sellindge from 2pm to 4pm. new members welcome. Lympne Short Mat Bowling Club meets every Mon & Thurs 7 00 pm to 9 30 pm September to May in Lympne Village Hall. It is a small, friendly, sociable club. Do come along and try your hand at an enjoyable, skilful game. Do come along you will be made most welcome. For further details call Joyce Groom - Match Secretary on 01303 230983/0750 652 5971 trevor_groom@sky.com Sellindge Linedancing Club We are your local line dance club. We meet every Tuesday & Thursday. Are you interested in joining us? You don’t need a partner to line dance! We are starting a NEW BEGINNERS CLASS on 5th September 6.00pm until 7.00pm Entry fee is only £2.50. If you need to know more or even to reserve your place, please ring Maureen for further details. 07989 210449 Ashford Model Railway Club - We meet on Wednesday evenings at the barn café at Willesborough Windmill. between 7.00pm and 9.00pm, and the club would welcome new members. Club members are currently building a model of Rye in 00 gauge in the SR period.
BRABOURNE BAPTIST CHURCH
Plain Road, Brabourne Lees, Kent TN25 6QN
appointment by e-mailing your name, post code, subject and message to: shepwayconservatives@ btconnect.com or telephone 01303 253 524
Enquiries: Geoff Thorpe 01303 813152 or Babs Ruck Meeting Point; Please call Cathy for further 01303 813743 Sunday Services: There is a regular service at 10.30am every week. Morning Worship is followed by free refreshments in the side hall.
information 01303 814132
Café Wednesday The Café is open every Wednesday except 28th (please see under Easter) from 10am to 11.30am. Drop in for coffee, biscuits, company and a warm friendly atmosphere. Choice of books available. Everybody welcome First Wednesday of the month: A free clinic is held on behalf of Hi-Kent, to service and provide batteries for hearing aids.
Easter Celebrations at Brabourne Baptist Church! Everyone welcome! Maundy Thursday; March 29 at 7pm; Service, including Communion and Reflection. Good Friday: March 30 at 10am; Good Friday Cafe with coffee and hot cross buns followed by a Time of Reflection for any who wish to stay. Easter Sunday; April 1 Easter Service at 10.30am with Guest Speaker; Church Bookings If you wish to book the church Rev Dr Chris Voke, retired minister and lecturer at hall for a meeting or function, please phone Geoff Spurgeon’s College. Thorpe 01303 813152 Art Club: David Embry, a local artist, will be demonstrating how to use acrylics on March 13 from 10am – 12 noon. Following this, we hope to arrange a workshop later in the year. New members always welcome. Please phone Mike Crisp 01303 812484 for more details Bicentenary; October 13th & 14th 2018 Were you married in the church? Were you Baptised? Have you any memories that you’d like to share? Did you go on any Annual trips to Dymchurch!! How about all those children who came along to Club Sunday or Youth Groups/Holiday Clubs over the last few years? Would you like to share your memories? Have you any photos? Please contact Val 01303 813152 if you can help. I look forward to hearing from you. Food Bank; We collect non-perishable food for the Ashford Food Bank. If anybody would like to contribute, please leave goods at the church during any Sunday service or event/meeting; ie The Ark, Meeting Point, Cafe Wednesday, Ladies Coffee Morning, Art Club, MPs Surgery or contact a member of the church. Messy Church: Saturday March 3 from 3pm – 5pm. Theme; ‘Noah’s Ark’. Invite some friends and enjoy craft, a Christian message and a light meal. We’d love to see you there! Families of all ages can get together for a time of fun!! Entrance free; Donations welcome. Please contact Margaret Austen 01303 812555 MP’S Surgery: Our MP Damian Collins, will be holding his monthly surgery from 3.45pm to 4.30pm on Friday March 16th. If you have any questions, complaints or comments, please book an
Your local, mobile service. Fully Insured & Certified
•Remote IT Support •FREE Collection •Printer issues •Internet/WiFi/Network issues •Back up precious photos •Speed Up a Windows PC •Virus Repair/Recovery •Windows & Mac Support
Call Gary 07976
151 148
gary@flagcomputerrepair.co.uk www.flagcomputerrepair.co.uk
SELLINDGE BOOT FAIR
Every second Saturday in the month May - September 12 noon start Sellindge Sports and Social Club 69, Swan Lane, Sellindge
HAMSTREET BOOT FAIR
First Sunday in the month April - December 9am - 12 noon Victory Hall/Field Food, Bargains, Toilets
Community Events, Clubs & Societies are free to list, send to events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk 31
Health
By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk
World Bipolar Day
World Bipolar Day on 30th March aims to educate the world about bipolar disorder, which affects 1-2% of the world’s population. What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar disorder, once known as manic depression, is a condition that causes your mood and behaviour to veer from low and lethargic to euphoric and overlyenergetic (‘manic’). These swings can be frequent or only occur every few months, with or without stable periods in between. For some sufferers, either depressive episodes or manic phases predominate. In ‘mixed state’ bipolar, depressive and manic symptoms are experienced together, while ‘rapid cycling’ involves repeated, rapid swings between high and low phases without stable periods in between. What Causes Bipolar Disorder? Chemical imbalances in the brain, genetic factors, extreme stress and trauma can all contribute. Longterm cannabis use seems to trigger bipolar in vulnerable individuals. Bipolar disorder affects people of all ages and backgrounds. However, it more commonly develops at 15-19 years of age and rarely develops after 40. What are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder? The nature of bipolar disorder means sufferers can find it hard
32
to acknowledge symptoms and accept the concerns or help of others. Depressive phase symptoms include: • irritability • lacking energy and appetite • memory and concentration difficulties • lethargy • feelings of worthlessness, guilt or despair • pervasive pessimism • hallucinations (visual, auditory and olfactory) and illogical/ delusional thinking • difficulty sleeping • suicidal thoughts Manic phase symptoms include: • feeling elated and energetic • talking very quickly • feeling self-important • having impulsive new plans • being easily distracted, irritated or agitated • hallucinations, delusions and illogical thinking • not feeling like sleeping or eating • making uncharacteristic decisions or statements that concern others or have disastrous consequences (e.g. excessive spending sprees) Bipolar symptoms may affect your driving. You must inform the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) of your diagnosis. How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed and Treated? If you or those around you are worried about your symptoms, your GP can refer you to a psychiatrist. They may also do tests to rule out physical conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid problems. Treatments for bipolar disorder aim to reduce its effects and alleviate symptoms. • Lifestyle changes. The right nutrients, exercise and sleep can help, as can avoiding stress and focusing on activities that give
you a sense of achievement or calm. A medical professional can advise you on how to recognise triggers of your depressive or manic episodes, and prepare for and prevent them. • Medication. Depending on your symptoms, this can include mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics (to treat anxiety) or sleeping tablets. • Talking therapies/counselling. This can help you manage depression and get perspective on troubling thoughts and relationships. If you have severe bipolar that doesn’t respond to medication, ECT (electro-convulsive therapy) may be suggested. ECT performed in today’s hospitals is tightly regulated and can be a highly effective treatment. When symptoms are severe, you may not be able to look after yourself or make judgements about your treatment. You can write an ‘advanced directive/decision’, which explains your treatment wishes, in case you can’t communicate this later. Your GP or psychiatrist can help. Useful Information
The Samaritans www.samaritans. org; Tel: 116 123 from any phone to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free of charge. Bipolar UK: supporting bipolar sufferers, and their families and carers. www.bipolaruk.org; Tel: 0333 323 3880. Mind: advice and support for anyone experiencing mental health problems. www.mind.org.uk; Tel: 0300 123 3393.
Health & Fitness
Professional fully insured foot care in the comfort of your own home
Tel: 07738 473375
E: sonia@ssfootcare.co.uk
Advertise Here 25% OFF (£26.25 per month plus vat)
Min 4 month booking, limited availability
Tel: 01233 720488
e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk
Visit www.ultrashape3d.com
T: 01233 224987 E: ultrashape3d@gmail.com Evegate Business Park, Smeeth, Ashford TN25 6SX
for good honest advice,þ informationþ and a solution to mostþ mobility problemsþ www.forrmobility.co.uk� New ,Used & Hire Equipmentþ from Aids for Daily Livingþ to Wheelchairs.þ
come and try the largestþ selection of mobilityþ equipment in ashfordþ
• Parking by the door.þ • Indoor & outdoorþ test areas.þ • Repairs / Servicing.þ • Modifications.þ • Adaptationsþ .þ •þEasy terms available.þ • Free homeþ assessmentsþ
33
TINA FRANCIS DOMESTIC ELECTRICIAN
New Installations Re-wires Additional or replacement Lights, sockets etc
Plumbing Masters No Callout Charge • Free Estimates 24 hour Emergency Service
All Work Guaranteed • No Job Too Small
Mobile 07761 695101 Email – tinafrancis1@aol.com
Plumbing
Newchurch, Romney Marsh, TN29 0DH
Plumbing & Heating Services
All plumbing work undertaken no job too small! Burst pipes, Blockages, Taps, Pumps, Radiators & Drainage work. Bathroom & Shower Installation
Call: Michael on 01233 733779 or 07515 651 717 No Call Out Charge. 24hr Service
Bathroom Suites • Taps • Ball Valves Hot & Cold Tanks • Blockages & Burst Pipes
Heating Installations • Repairs • Pumps & Radiators Specialist Powerflushing and De-Scaling Service
Call812148 Tony Telephone: 01303 T: 01303 812148Mobile: M: 07738 907 717 07738907717 www.plumbing-masters.co.uk www.plumbingmasters.co.uk
PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES BATHROOM SUITES BLOCKAGES & BURST PIPES TAPS BALL VALVES HOT & COLD TANKS INSTALLATIONS
REPAIRS PUMPS & RADIATORS SPECIALIST POWER FLUSHING & DE-SCALING SERVICE NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE ESTIMATES OAP DISCOUNT ALL WORK GUARANTEED
NO JOB TOO SMALL
Call Noel @ Dial-a-Plumber
34
07711 666 656 / 01233 642233
The Home
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... MINI DIGGER & OPERATOR FOR HIRE MICK ATTWELL
mickattwell@aol.co.uk
07979 881 873 01303 862079
GemmaShay Electrical Services Established ELECSA Part P Registered Electrician All types of work undertaken including: • Lighting, sockets and rewires, garden electrics • Fault finding and repairs • Test and Inspect certification • 3 phase installations
40 years experience - CPCS Registered Call for a competitive rate
Free estimates
Contact Phil Manning
Tel: 07739018050 / 01303 813132
Email: philmanning@gemmashay.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
STANFORD ROOFING
99 99 99 99 99
New Roofs & Repairs Slates, Tiles, Kent Pegs Leadwork Repointing Guttering, Fascias
99 Flat Roofs 99 Public Liability Insurance
e: info@stanfordroofing.co.uk
FREE ESTIMATES Over 25 yrs Experience
Tel: 01303 814860 m: 07725 124891
www.stanfordroofing.co.uk Pound Lane, Smeeth TN25 6RJ 35
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.
B U L L
©Puzzlepress.co.uk
F R O G
Crossword Across 7. Swap over (6) 8. To be on a ship (6) 9. Not new (4) 10. Outside (8) 11. Angry (7) 13. Funeral fires (5) 15. Almost two pints (5) 17. Below (7) 20. Observing (8) 21. Story (4) 23. Educational establishment (6) 24. Required (6) Down 1. Female sheep (4) 2. Recording room (6) 3. Burglars (7) 4. Belief (5) 5. Every sixty minutes (6) 6. Widest (8) 12. Inconvenience (8) 14. Combining (7) 36
16. Calculate (6) 18. Respect (6)
19. Foolish (5) 22. Vegetable (4)
The Home
GP
Electrical & Plastering At last, a company with a team of electricians you can rely on to provide a great service. All electrical work undertaken from changing a light bulb to a commercial project.
07803 417098
www.gpelectricalandplastering.co.uk Friendly, Professional Service - Free Estimates, Fully Insured Plastering Artex Covering Walls and Ceilings Renovations & more...
Contact us on: 01303 812400 / 1 E-mail: larkinelec@btinternet.com
Electrical Work Consumer Unit Changes Full Rewires Outhouses / Exterior & more...
DARREN CHAPPELL
QUALIFIED INTERIOR & EXTERIOR DECORATOR City and Guilds
• Public Liability Insured • Over 20 years experience • General Handyman work also undertaken • No job too small • Professional Service • Please call for a free quotation T: 01233 501663 M: 07912 789896 E: darrenchappell312@btinternet.com
Easy Access Bathrooms Safe, sound and stylish
Walk-in showers • Walk-in baths • Wetrooms Beautiful bathroom & shower conversions
Family run business with over 15 years of Knowledge & experience Zero VAT on Mobility bathrooms
To find out how we can help you call:
01233 210808
w w w . b a t h e i n s a f e t y . c o . u k
37
Important Information Emergency 999 Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden
Crimestoppers
Out of Hours Doctor William Harvey Hospital
101 0800 555 111 0845 4349655 01233 633331
Samaritans 116123 www.samaritans.org
Electricity: Southern Electric EDF Energy Gas: Natural LPG
Doctors Surgery Hamstreet Surgery Sellindge Surgery Veterinary Surgeons Montgomery Vets
0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank
01233 730190 01303 812180 01303 813756
Parish Councils: Aldington & Bonnington 01233 721757 E: clerk@ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk www.ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk Brabourne & Smeeth 01233 623902 Mersham & Sevington 01233 750415 Sellindge 01303 813 271 Ashford Borough Council 01233 331111 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 Ashford Volunteer Centre 01233 665 535 Age UK Ashford 01233 668 765 www.ageuk.org/ashford ageukashford.org@gmail.com Ashford Counselling Service 01233 610083 info@ashfordcounselling.org.uk www.kentcounselling.co.uk CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com W: www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk
Macmillan Cancer Support W: www.forget-me-nots.co.uk Parkinson’s UK, Ashford Branch Contact Mike Wharrad 01233 623520 St. John Ambulance Brigade 01233 611414 East Kent Strokes 01233 840448 www.eastkentstrokes.org SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: mssoutheast@gmail.com Royal British Legion CPRE Kent
01233 620 167 01233 714540
Royal Mail Residential Customer Services 08457 740740 Travel www.arrivabus.co.uk www.stagecoachbus.com www.nationalrail.co.uk Village Halls Aldington 01233 720213 Brabourne & Smeeth 01303 813746 David Smith, keen.smith@btinternet.com Bilsington 01233 720818 Hamstreet 01233 732568 Mersham 01233 503192 Smeeth 01303 814977 Stowting 01303 862819 Sellindge 01303 813250 Sellindge Spts & Soc. Club 01303 812437
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.
The Village Directory Delivery Area Postcode Coverage Regions
Delivered by Royal Mail to 58,000 Homes & Businesses Coverage 58,100 via Royal Mail Delivered by
Egerton Challock
Charing Smarden
Boughton Aluph
Pluckley
Westwell
Charing Area 4,100
Eastwell
Orchard Heights
Biddenden
Ashford 20,200
Hothfield
Bethersden High Halden
Bodsham Hastingleigh Elmsted
Wye Area 4,400
Kennington, Willesborough, Repton Park, Great Chart, Kingsnorth, Park Farm, Sevington & Orbital Park
Little Chart
TN26 Area - 5,300
Wye
Brook
Brabourne Brabourne Lees
Aldington Area - 4,000
Bridgefield Est.
Woodchurch
Sellindge Mersham Aldington Stowting Bilsington Stanford Bonnington
Warehorne Hamstreet Ruckinge Appledore
Dymchurch Newchurch Ivychurch
St Michaels Tenterden
Brookland
Small Hythe
St Mary’s Bay New Romney
The Marsh 10,600
Wittersham
Tenterden & Rye Stone-in-Oxney Area 9,500 Iden Playden East Guldeford Rye Camber
Lydd Dungeness
Call: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk 01233 720488 Call: 01233 720488 or emaile: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk PUZZLE ANSWERS Kid’s Corner: The crossword answers are... 1. Ping Pong Ball 2. Dartboard 3. Bowlingball 4. Net Rate Card & Map 2018.indd 2 5. Basketball 6. Sportsbag 7. Pin 8. Alley, 9. Table Football, 10. Bat
Word Sudoku: Ladder: BULL boll bolt colt coot clot clog flog FROG
Crossword:
22/02/2018 13:55:08
GTP
HOME IMPROVEMENTS LTD • PVCu, Aluminium & Hardwood • Top Quality • Part L Compliant • 'A' Rated Kommerling PVCu Windows • Local Family Run Business • 27 Years Experience
Conservatories
FREE DESIGN, SURVEY & QUOTATION NO SALESMAN - NO COMMISSION 10 YR INSURANCE BACKED GUARANTEE BASE WORK, ELECTRICS, PLUMBING & HEATING
01233 642305 www.gtpwindows.co.uk