Aldington November 2017

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village directory

The

November 2017

Delivered FREE to 4,000 homes in TN25 by Royal Mail

for the Aldington Area

Harringe Plants at Christmas

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Welcome Hi everyone, welcome to the November edition. The nights are well and truly closing in now that the clocks have gone back (you did remember didn’t you !). We are now on the slippery slope toward Christmas and the end of another year. The final weeks running up to the party season fly past, before you know it you’ll be stuffing the turkey (no double entendre intended!). The pubs and restaurants are advertising their Christmas menus so book your parties in soon to avoid disappointment, and don’t forget to tell them The Village Directory sent you! In fact make sure you tell all of our advertisers where you found them, it’s so important to the success of the magazine.

As the festive season approaches we have plenty of events for you this month, many of them associated with great causes, I do hope you’ll stir up the Christmas spirit and give them your support. While we are on the subject of events, can I take this opportunity to request that event organisers use the Events email address when sending them in i.e. events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk. It was set up to protect them being lost amongst the volume of other email that we receive. It is so disappointing when things go astray, for everyone involved. Please also note that the Events email is unattended until we compile them around the 10th of the month, so if you require a response please send a courtesy copy to info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk, we will then get back to you. Thank you.

It’s now time to warm my toes by the fire and veg out in front of a great feel good movie - after all it is Sunday. Have fun this month and stay safe!

Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk December Issue Deadline 10th Nov 2017

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3

The Garden

A Busy November

by Pippa Greenwood

It is time for the seasonal slowdown, as your garden and most of the plants and animals in it start to prepare for the colder months ahead. But, of course this doesn’t mean to say that you can start snoozing!

There are lots of jobs which, if done now, could end up saving you time and money later on in the season or when the garden comes back to full life next spring, so I thought it’d be a good idea to take a look at the top November gardening tasks that you should try to get to grips with.

Get prepared for a relatively weed-free few months but hoe off weeds that are around now, as some might still set seed during mild, damp periods. Provided they don’t have any seed pods on them their top-growth can safely be composted. Bin, burn or rot down fleshy weed roots to prevent them growing in the compost heap!

Flower beds and borders are likely to have a lot of deteriorating plants in them now. Cut back or pick off

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obviously diseased leaves and stems, and remove some of the foliage that is dying back purely due to the time of year. The flower beds will look a lot neater and it’ll give you an insight as to what might need replacing.

Leave some deteriorating but healthy foliage in place to provide some protection for the crowns of the more fragile plants.

Rabbits can be a menace at the best of times, but over the next few months their natural or wild food supplies are likely to dry up. This means they will be on the lookout for some tasty meals from your garden.

Make sure that rabbit netting is not damaged and that trees, especially those that have been planted recently, are fitted with tree guards.

Rake, rake and rake some more!

That’s what you’ll need to be doing if there is a sizeable tree near your lawn. Use a springtined rake and do it on a regular basis - if you don’t collect up the fallen leaves they can do quite a lot of damage to the grass beneath.

Trees, shrubs and climbers that have been planted over the last few weeks may need a little protection over their first winter.

Foliage that will be perfectly tough and hardy once the plant is established may well succumb to frost or cold wind damage this year. If heavy frosts are forecast or winds are getting icy, a layer or two of horticultural fleece draped over the plant and pegged in place, should do the trick, and can be removed on warmer days. I’ve also got some great fleece ‘jackets’, complete with a drawstring and in various sizes, available from my website - perfect for easy protection of all sorts of sizes of plants and shrubs, see www.pippagreenwood.com/ products/protect-your-crops.

If you’re planning on planting a hedge, bear in mind that many hedging plants are far cheaper if bought ‘bare root field grown’, meaning they are lifted from their nursery field without being potted on. These plants generally establish and grow really well and are likely to be available now, but to make sure

The Garden you get the pick of the bunch get your order in now. Bare root plants are not feasible once the leaves start to appear next year.

Send off for a good collection of seed catalogues and check out the various websites so that you can start to look at what you want to grow next year. Many suppliers offer seeds and young plants of many vegetables, so order now and you can relax, knowing that you have got your first choice selection. Check out my website, www.pippagreenwood.com/ grow-your-own, for a Grow Your Own package perfect for the less experienced vegetable grower - the plants you choose come with weekly advice emails telling you exactly what you need to be doing.

Established clumps of bamboo should be thinned out now. The extra space that the remaining canes will have will allow them to grow away better, and also gives them more freedom to move about in that way which makes bamboos so very appealing.

Less tender bulbs such as nerines and many of the agapanthus are more likely to come through the winter with style if you give them a little protection now. Mound dry chipped bark or other mulch over the area in which they are planted.

And last but not least, water butts may not have had a lot of water going in to them over the last few drier months, but this

Stephen Bailey Landscaping

is likely to change. Before they fill up with rain, grab a sturdy brush and clean each one out thoroughly, removing deposits of algae, soggy bits of plant and general gunge! Rinse out and then re-install ready to collect some rain.

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com for a gorgeous selection of useful gardening items, perfect for gifts too, including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, fleece jackets, cloches, fruit cages, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls, copper tape, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

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Mowgli

by Montgomery Vets

H

ello everyone, Mowgli here. It has been strangely uneventful in our house this month (I am sure we will pay for that soon…) and I was wondering what to write to you all about when I suddenly thought about Montgomery. I think I have mentioned in passing before that the Clinic was named after Jane and Clive’s first cat- Montgomery- but I don’t think I have ever told his full story.

W

ell, Monty was a beautiful grey short hair cat with green eyes. Jane first met him when he came to her to be vaccinated as a kitten (this is long long ago before Jane was a zoo vet...) It will come as no surprise to you that Clive and Jane are cat connoisseurs (they chose me- of course they are!) and occasionally meet a cat they adore on sight. Monty was one of these cats. Jane met Monty a few times and then sadly one day he came back to her consult room with a broken leg after a bad fall (already he sounds like a cat after my own heart. A cat adventurous enough to do such extreme climbing he could break a leg….)

Monty was lucky that he could be fixed with strict rest. He didn’t make it easy for his poor owners though- refused to stay still, removed his splint at every opportunity and yowled the place down. One day his owners brought Monty to Jane and said they had had enough.

They didn’t want Monty anymore as he was so naughty. Could she either find him a home or put him to sleep? Jane of course tried her hardest to convince them to keep him but it was not to be. Although, as a cat I find this hard to believe, it is not an uncommon situation for

8

vets to find themselves in and this happened relatively often to Clive and Jane where they were working at the time. A good home had always been found for such animals. Up to this point Clive and Jane had not taken any animals home and only had Louis the tortoise. Monty of course was different. There was only one thing to be done. Jane called Clive to say she was bringing a cat home.

Clive spluttered a bit but agreed immediately and within a couple of hours Monty was ensconced in their sitting room purring his

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The Home

head off. That night Monty assumed prime bed position on the pillows and cemented himself as leader of the household. Unlike Ebony and I Monty went outside. Clive has told us he was an intrepid hunter and would bring something home as a gift every day. This led to various adventures, like squirrels running up the curtains and Monty storing several live pigeons behind the kitchen cupboard kickboards. Every time Monty came home through the cat flap he would yell his head off, announcing his arrival and come running to find someone.

adly after just 9 months he was run over and killed on the road. So when the vet clinic was opened there was only one thing it could possibly be called‌.

Heritage Upholstery

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fter several weeks of missing Monty terribly Clive and Jane decided they would get another cat. Of course they chose me! How could they not?! I think Monty would be proud of my antics. Us cats have to stick together, don’t we! ~ Mowgli

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Tuesdays Announce New ‘Make Your Voice Count’ Charity Fundraiser with George Michael Supersong!

Following the tremendous success of the ‘Make Your Voice Count’ charity fundraiser in January when more than £5,000 was raised for Ashford’s Pilgrim’s Hospice - Tenterden’s celebrated choir The Tuesdays have announced they will be repeating the venture on Friday, 17 November.

‘Make Your Voice Count’ aims to involve as many people as possible to join in a evening of song, culminating in a nine minute medley of George Michael’s greatest hits. January’s concert attracted almost 500 people, who rocked the ancient parish church of St Mildred’s with a medley of Queen songs. Says Max Wilson, leader of The Tuesdays: “It was such a fabulous success that we simply have to do it all over again, and see if we can attract even more people to join us.

event website - www.makeyourvoicecount.club - for full details. There is a choice of downloads for the George Michael supersong, one for ladies and children with high voices, another for those with lower voices, and a third showing how it will all sound with everyone singing together.

For a video taster, YouTube has a short film of the January event (log onto YouTube, and key in ‘Make Your Voice Count’ - The Tuesdays’).

To take part in the 17 November ‘Make Your Voice Count’ at St Mildred’s costs just £10 per person, and all the money raised will go to the Pilgrim’s Hospice.

“It really doesn’t matter if you normally only sing in the shower - everyone is invited, and the more the merrier. It’s a wonderful community event, and we’re particularly thrilled this year that we are being joined by The Rhythm of Life choir”.Christmas

Flower Arranging

People wanting to take part Demonstration should log onto the with Lauren from Hops & Flowers

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Door Wreath Class £30 per person (includes basic wreath materials)

Christmas Flower Arranging Demonstration with Lauren from Hops & Flowers Wed 29th Nov & Fri 1st Dec 10.30am-midday £5 per person Free raffle Booking required

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Saturday 25th Nov 10.30am - 12pm & 2pm-4pm Sunday 26th Nov 11am-1pm Saturday 2nd Dec 10.30am - 12pm & 2pm-4pm Sunday 3rd Dec 11am-1pm Booking required 01227 830666 florist@essentiallyhops.co.uk www.hopsandflowers.co.uk Chalkpit Farm, Bekesbourne, Canterbury CT4 5EU

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A CLEAN CHIMNEY IS A SAFE CHIMNEY 11

Home & Interiors Scandi Winter Trends

By Katherine Sorrell it’s not about spending money, but trying to be kind to yourself; hygge is when there’s nothing going on to worry or annoy you, and you’re able to take great pleasure from simple things.

If you thought lagom was a kind of bean and gluggavedur a creamy Christmas tipple, don’t miss Katherine Sorrell’s guide to the Scandinavian interiors trends that will see you (and your Instagram feed) through the winter.

HYGGE The best known of our Scandi set, hygge (named a word of the year 2016 by the Oxford dictionary) was massive last winter and it looks like it’s here to stay.

Pronounced ‘hoog-uh’, the Danish word is not directly translatable into English, and can be a noun, verb or adjective, but the overall concept stands for cosiness and contentment, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and enjoying good times with friends and family. When you recognise that special moment – it’s the feeling of hygge. It’s well known

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that the Danes are the happiest people on the planet, and maybe it’s all because of hygge, which is an integral part of the nation’s culture and psyche. The high season for hygge is winter – it helps make long, dark evenings more bearable – and, especially, Christmas. Key elements? Homecooked comfort food such as porridge or stews; eating with family or friends; candles (the Danes burn more candles than any other European nation) or pools of warm, well-positioned light; reading in front of the fire on a rainy day; squashy sofas and armchairs; a cup of warm cocoa (or tea in a china cup, or freshly brewed coffee, or homemade mulled wine); sheepskins, knitting (especially Fair Isle and hand-knitted socks); hot water bottles; piles of throws and cushions; board games; a log burner. You get the idea. Overall,

LAGOM The lagom trend hails from Sweden, and it roughly translates as ‘not too little, not too much’ – in other words, just the right amount. It’s applied to everything, from drinking coffee to buying a house, and its aim is fairness and contentment (you know how well-adjusted the Swedes are). Apparently, while hygge is a momentary state of happiness, lagom is more to do with an overall approach to life.

And this sense of moderation and balance extends naturally to home design – functional, unfussy, minimal and wellmade pieces are key, with an emphasis on durability and sustainability. Remind you of anyone? You’ve guessed it – Ikea has created a LIVE Lagom project, in which the Swedish flatpack superstore ‘supports customers and co-workers with products, workshops, bespoke advice and an active community to help save energy and water, reduce waste and promote a healthy lifestyle.’

How else can you incorporate a sense of lagom in your home?

Well, keep things simple, declutter, tidy and organise your storage, reduce your carbon footprint (time for LED light bulbs, for a start) and choose

The Home

Flooring Worth Talking About

furniture and accessories that are pared-back and practical, stylish without being showy. Incorporate a palette of neutral colours and natural materials and away you go. Just right.

GLUGGAVEDUR It seems it’s not possible to go six months without another Scandi trend taking hold, and the latest is gluggavedur, this time from Iceland. It means, literally, ‘window-weather’, or an overall concept of curling up indoors while watching the world go by outside, specifically when the weather looks nice from indoors but is probably not so great when you’re actually out in it. Make the most of snuggling up in the comfort of your living room or bedroom and looking out on a cold, sunny day by enhancing your window area – beautiful curtains or blinds, perhaps with a pretty tie back or a tactile blind pull; maybe some wooden shutters, a window seat with a comfy cushion and a throw, and even some plants, candles or carefully selected art works nearby.

IMAGE LEFT: Oslo grey and lime cushions, £50 each, and throws, £125 each, all ALSO Home: 01483 608 614; www.alsohome.com IMAGE ABOVE: Oyster luxury cream sheepskin rug, £69, The Swedish Wooden Horse Company: 01444 414 070; www.theswedishwoodenhorse.com

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The Home

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Gift Inspiration Books make great gifts. If you’re stuck for inspiration or looking for some ideas for your own Christmas wish list, check out this month’s recommendations.

For fans of Sarah Waters and Susanna Clarke.

The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock – Imogen Hermes Gowar The year is 1785 and widower John Hancock finds himself the owner of what appears to be a dead mermaid. The artefact proves the talk of the town and gains John access to a whole new circle of society, a society that includes the alluring courtesan, Angelica Neal. 18th century London is brought vividly to life in this enchanting debut novel.

Enjoyed The Rosie Project and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time? Try… The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr – Frances Maynard Elvira doesn’t see the world in quite the same way as most people. As a result, she lives a fairly sheltered life, caring for her overbearing mother and indulging her interest in biscuits.

But then her mother has a stroke and Elvira has to find her own way in the world. With a great storyline, well-rounded characters and plenty of humour to boot, Frances Maynard’s debut novel is a triumph.

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Love dystopian fiction such as The Hunger Games and Divergent? Try…

simple to follow, with attractive photographs and engaging introductions.

The Gender Game – Bella Forrest In Violet Bates’s world, women rule. Men have few rights and boys can be sent away if they’re deemed capable of aggression.

Across the river it’s another story – in Patrus men have the power. Violet is serving time in a detention facility when she’s offered the chance to have her slate wiped clean, in return for completing a mission in Patrus. An enjoyable, easy read.

Love a good psychological thriller? Add this to your wish list.

Fans of The Great British Bake Off will be clamouring for this one…

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The Stolen Child – Sanjida Kay Without giving too much away, The Stolen Child centres around Zoe, Ollie and their daughter, Evie.

Evie was adopted by the couple from birth, but starts to receive letters and gifts from a man claiming to be her father. A man who says he wants her back. Full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

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Hannah Green and Her Unfeasibly Mundane Existence – Michael Marshall Smith Eleven year old Hannah Green finds the world isn’t quite as mundane as she thought, when it turns out her grandfather is in league with the devil. The world is out of kilter, and the unlikely trio have to work together to put things right. A thoroughly enjoyable read, with great descriptions, bags of humour and believable characters.

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Poppy Appeal 2017 It is that time of the year again, when Poppies shortly start appearing, on news readers on television, politicians and performers, all sporting the bright red poppy.

The collectors in the streets, door-to-door collections and boxes in all sorts of shops and pubs remind us that they are the symbol of remembrance and of the need to recognise the sacrifices that have been made by the Armed Forces over the years on our behalf.

It is a surprising fact that over 70 years after the end of the Second World War there is still a need to provide this support.

Events since the end of hostilities in 1945, Korea, Suez, Iraq, and Afghanistan as well as events in Northern Ireland have meant that the demand for the Royal British Legion’s services not only remain but are increasing. Each year the Legion needs to raise in the region of £130 million to undertake its work, that is £1.7 million each week, work that provides real support not only for the former serving personnel but their dependents as well.

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Wear your Poppy with pride and support the work of the Royal British Legion in helping those who gave so much.

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Issue 1

Going the extra mile (26.2 miles!)

Hello folks!

My name is Stu and I’ve talked myself in to going that extra mile.

An extra 26.2 miles to be precise by running the London Marathon on behalf of a fantastic UK charity called Whizz-kidz.

Whizz-kidz transform the lives of disabled children across the UK by supplying them with vital mobility equipment. Since 1990 they have transformed the lives of more than 18000 children and young people.

To be completely honest, it wasn’t a charity I was familiar with or in fact had ever heard of but the more I’ve read, the more inspired I’ve been to play my part (however small in the scheme of things) in raising as much money for them as I can.

The Marathon wasn’t top of my list to start with. I considered all sorts of

options: a cake sale? Sponsored swim? No, neither were big enough.

So, despite being an asthma sufferer I thought I’d do something easy and non-energetic….yeah, I’ll run the marathon! It’s got to be easy right?

26.2 miles, that’s only Aldington to……oh hang on…its Aldington to almost Maidstone. That’s quite far actually.

Four weeks later I’m training puffing and panting around the countryside telling myself with every other stride, what a mistake I may have made and that there was still time to change my mind. Yep, I’ll ring them when I get back from this gallop.

‘Ding’.. Perhaps I won’t, someone has sponsored me which is brilliant but now I’m definitely committed!!

And so the journey begins……

Well, since that first ‘ding’ I haven’t thought of much else. After digging out the running gear, fast forward to today and I’ve clocked up 35 miles.

Further than I actually need to run except it’s not been in one go.

events so watch this space. The first being: Charity Quiz The Walnut Tree Inn, Aldington 28 October, 7pm.

2 per person, teams of 6.

Call 01233 720298 to book.

I would love it if you would support me by not only following my story each month in the village directory up to D-day, 22 April 2018 but by helping me raise as much as possible by donating whatever you can, however little that may be.

I fully appreciate that most of us already donate to various charities but if you haven’t already, it would be amazing if you could consider Whizz-kidz.

It is a fantastic charity and through my fundraising page you too can ‘move a life forward’.

Thanks, Stu.

My fundraising page has had regular ‘dings’ from amazing donators and I’m also planning various fundraising

Move a life forward here: https://whizz-kidz-london-marathon18.everydayhero.com/uk/stu

22

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L i v e Ja z z 2017

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 Nov 9th XENOPOULOS / PRICE QUINTET Nov 16th RAY GELATO QUARTET Nov 23rd SKELTON / SKINNER ALL

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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

24

Nov e m b e r

9th The Royal Air Forces Association meet at 7.30pm in Wye Village Hall. After a short business meeting we usually have a speaker followed by refreshments The November speaker is Alan Haines “Mad musicians and crazy dancers”. Connection to the RAF is not necessary.

We would be pleased to meet new members. Parking is not a problem. Contact: rita.elgar05@gmail.com 10th Woodchurch Film Society will be showing the film ‘Me Before You’. Doors open at 7pm for 7.30pm screening. Tickets are £4 (members), £5 (nonmembers). All available at the door. the venue will be The Memorial Hall, The Green, Woodchurch TN26 3PF. Hot & cold drinks plus home-made cakes for sale.

11th St Martins Church, Aldington, Christmas Coffee Morning & Table Top Sale, Aldington Village Hall.

10am - 1pm. Tables £5 available to sell unwanted gifts, craft, books, whatever. Bacon Baps, Cakes Tea, Coffee, Squash. Call Sue on 01233 720652 or Patricia 01233 720410 to book a table. Profit to the church for repair.

13th Smeeth W.I. will meet at 7.30pm at Brabourne and Smeeth Village Hall for their Annual Meeting.

There will also be a display of Members’ Treasures and members will be able to recount reminiscences about these items. A friendly welcome awaits any lady visitor and for more information do please contact Joy Taylor 01303 812165 or Margaret Garrett 01303 812165.

15th The Weald of Kent Computer Club will meet in Biddenden New Village Hall at 7.30 pm. This evening Peter Rate will be giving a talk, “Family History from Cave Records to Digital Clouds.”. 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 18th Country and Western night, Church of the Good Shepherd, Hamstreet. An evening of live music by local performers at 7pm. Tickets are £7.50 including a cowboy supper. Patrons should bring their own drinks. For tickets phone Teresa on 01233 733056. The event is in aid of the Good Shepherd building fund.

21st Ashford Flower Club will be staging their Christmas floral art demonstration entitled ’My Norfolk Christmas’ by Melissa Sheldrake. It will take place at Norton Knatchbull School, Hythe Road, Ashford TN24 0QJ, starting at 7.30pm (doors open 6.30pm). Ticket price - £8.00. Advance purchase is recommended (by contacting 01303 269422 or 01233 628278), but tickets will also be available at the door.

All demonstrated arrangements will be raffled at the end of the evening - you could be one of the winners, so come along and join us.

22nd The Biddenden Horticultural Society meets at 7.15 for 7.30pm in the Village Hall for our last event of

the year. We start the evening with our AGM (brief) followed by the Quiz and Cheese and Wine buffet.

Non members £5.00 – bookings accepted until 20th November. Contact Irene Orsborne on 01580 291777 or Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931.

What’s On Friends of COT

24th Ashford Mencap monthly Disco for any Adults 16 years and above with learning disabilities. The Discos are at St. Francis Church Hall from 7.30 until 9.30 p.m. Admission £2 including light refreshments, carers may accompany service users FOC. For further details contact: Margaret Pett, Chairperson 01233 626602 or Phil Monaghan, Vice Chair 01233 820247, e: ashfordmencap@btinternet.com 24th Brabourne & Smeeth Gardeners’ Society’s next meeting is in the village hall from 7.00 for 7.30 pm when members are invited to the Christmas Social.

There will be a two course meal with mulled wine to celebrate another successful year for the Society.

For further enquiries please contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813451 or e: brabournewendy@gmail.com.

26th Autumn Concert - Sutton Valence Choral Society sing Mendelssohn’s glorious Elijah. Sutton Valence Choral Society, with over 90 singers, will be joined by the Beresford Sinfonia and five top-class soloists, including a boy soprano. The concert takes place at All Saints’ Church, Mill Street, Maidstone, ME15 6YE on Sunday 26 Nov at 7pm. Earlier start!

Tickets £13 available from choir members, call 01622 861313, or email pamela.hipkins@btinternet.com or go to www.suttonvalencechoral.com

Sunday 26th November 2017 Lenham Square The festivities start at 1.30 pm - 5.30 pm Including: Father Christmas in his Grotto

Guess the weight of the cake

Stage Entertainment includes: Lenham Primary School Choir, Ukelele Band, Holigans Choir, The HAMS plus much more for all the family.

Please come along and support this event in order for us to continue to illuminate our beautiful village for Christmases to come.

25

What’s On

SATURDAY & SUNDAY 2nd & 3rd DECEMBER 2017 10am - 5pm on both days at All Saints Church, Woodchurch There will be approximately 20 trees

decorated by various groups in the village, so the church will look amazing.

Morning coffee, homemade soup, jacket potatoes and afternoon tea and cake will be available for visitors.

All money raised will be shared between the Fitzroy Leo Trust, a residential home in Woodchurch for adults with learning disabilities, and All Saints Church, for the ongoing upkeep of this lovely church.

26

December

What’s On

handmade crafts.

Ashford Invicta Singers Christmas Concert.

1st Charing Christmas Lights”Magical Evening” 9th Christmas Fayre will be held 5pm-8pm in Charing It will be held at Willesborough St Mary’s church at Church Barn and The Market Place. The following day 7:30pm in aid of church funds. there will be a Coffee Morning in the Church Barn, 10.30am-12.30pm with more goodies and all the prize draws will take place. For more information please call. 01233 714068/712138. All profit to the Charing Christmas Lights fund. Please support and help us keep Charing’s lovely Christmas Lights twinkling.

1st-2nd Betherdsen WI Pantomime Group Presents Wizard of Oz at Bethersden Village Hall on Friday 1st December 7.30 pm and Saturday 2nd December 3pm and 8pm. Tickets £3.50 each available from the Bethersden post office or by calling 01233 820650 2nd St Mary Magdalene Church Ruckinge. Warm Up for Christmas. 11.30 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. Hot homemade soup and bread, bread and butter pudding, cakes, gifts, produce etc. All welcome.

3rd Lees Court Music at Smeeth Church from 6pm.

Lees Court Music returns to perform music for Advent Sunday conducted by Andrew Lowen. Tickets on the door – see Parish Magazine for more.

3rd Christmas craft fair, chilham village hall, chilham, CT4 8DB. 10.30 to 4.30. Plenty of parking, free entry and refreshments. Lots of lovely stalls seeing genuine

The Tickled Trout Bridge Street • Wye • Kent TN25 5EB • 01233 812227 www.thetickledtrout.co.uk Starters

Potted duck with plum marmalade & crostini Baked Portobello mushroom with grilled halloumi & caramelised red onion Chilli & garlic king prawns with piquant mixed pepper salsa Leek & potato soup with flakes of smoked haddock

Mains

Roasted Kentish turkey Roasted forerib of Kentish beef Pan fried Barbary duck breast Brie & beetroot wellington with port & walnuts Served with roasted potatoes, sausage meat stuffing, honey glazed roasted parsnips, Chantenay carrots & sprout, red cabbage & walnut panache Pan fried Seabass with dill mashed potatoes, tenderstem broccoli & pea puree.

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Xmas pudding with custard Winterberry cheesecake with black cherry coulis Chocolate Yule log with vanilla ice cream Apple & pear & cinnamon crumble with custard

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27

Hobbies Bottoms Up! Let’s Toast This Terrific Tasting Hobby

By Kate McLelland “Honeydew melon…a little smell of cream…it reminds you of lying in bed upstairs and having a tiny waft of someone marvellous having made you breakfast downstairs. You get that smell of toast and butter…”

These are the words of wine expert Jilly Goolden, describing the aroma of a Chenin Blanc wine to a Guardian reporter at the launch of the wine-tasting courses she runs at her Sussex home.

While some readers may find Jilly’s descriptions a tad over the top, most wine lovers would probably admire her ability to find so many different sensations packed into one sniff of vintage white. Since she first appeared on our TV screens in the 1980s, Jilly has waxed lyrical about wines of every age, colour and price. She believes that drinkers who simply quaff a bottle without dwelling on its finer points are “probably missing out 50% of what it [the wine] has to say to you.”

WHAT DOES WINE TASTING INVOLVE? Wine tasting is the practice of using the senses of touch, sight and smell to evaluate different

28

wines. It is believed that the first wines were produced in Mesopotamia - an ancient region that included present day Iraq and Kuwait together with parts of Syria and Turkey - between 4,000 and 3,000 BC. By the time of the Roman Empire, the production of wine had spread throughout the Mediterranean, even as far as the British Isles.

The ancient Romans were particularly passionate about their wines, realising that the more a wine was allowed to mature, the better it tasted.

They were also the first to introduce wooden barrels, glass bottles and corks to preserve the precious liquid. It’s more than likely, therefore, that the first wine tasters were slaves employed by their masters to check that wines were drinkable (and also, possibly, to ensure that they hadn’t been poisoned by their enemies!)

Although unofficial methods of wine tasting have been around for thousands of years, it was not until the 14th century that more formalised ways of sampling and evaluating wines began to emerge. The rules put

in place at that time have since evolved into a craft with its own precise language and methods.

If you’re taking up wine-tasting as a hobby, you won’t be obliged to use the specialised terminology employed by today’s professional wine-tasters and sommeliers, but you will need to follow some basic rules to help you identify the particular characteristics of the wine you are sampling.

THE FOUR STAGES OF WINE TASTING The first phase in the four recognised stages of winetasting is appearance. The liquid is examined to see how well it reflects or refracts light, whether it is cloudy or clear, and how much the process of oxidisation over time might have affected its colour.

The wine’s smell (also known as its “nose”) is then judged.

Tasters must attempt to describe the perfume it gives off, as determined by its “aromas” and “bouquets”. “Aroma” refers to the smell of the specific grape - or combination of grapes used, while “bouquet” refers to the scent created as the wine matures.

Leisure To judge the taste, swirl the wine around your mouth so your taste buds can do their work. As well as teasing out the specific flavours of the wine, you’ll be considering the amount of sweetness and/or tartness you find. You might also want to judge the amount of astringency (bitterness caused by the tannin in grape skins) you can detect. Overall, you’ll be looking for “balance” in the wine, deciding whether all its components are in harmony.

The final part of the process is to consider the impression left on your tongue when you have either swallowed or used a spittoon to clear the wine from your palate. At this stage you’ll be able to tell a well-made wine by its crisp, clean finish: poor quality wines often leave a watery and insubstantial

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aftertaste. The best quality wines leave a “long finish”: that’s a flavour that remains in the mouth after the wine has gone.

HOW DO I START? If you’re not sure how to kick off your wine-tasting hobby, an online search will lead you to a number of excellent courses, taking place nationwide. On the jobs and training website run by the Reed Group you’ll find a short online course costing £97 (visit the Hospitality and Catering section at reed.co.uk for details), alternatively Jilly Goolden herself runs winetasting afternoons under the title “The Wine Room” at £125 per person, taking place in the Ashdown Forest, East Sussex (telephone 01342 822251 or email wineroom@jillygoolden. com).

As you develop confidence you’ll be able to explore some of the 400 or more commercial vineyards that operate in the UK. Visit England has a list of vineyards, many of which are open to the public, offering luxury on-site accommodation in B&Bs and self-catering accommodation so you can relax and make the most of your wine-tasting experience (visitengland.com).

Whether you’re planning to become the next Jilly Goolden or simply someone who loves to explore the subtleties and complexities of wine, you’re certain to find a course or vineyard experience to suit.

Bottoms up!

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29

French Omelette with Garlic Tomatoes Serves 1

Ready in 15 minutes

Eggs are the perfect fridge standby for a quick and filling supper. Here’s how to make a classic creamy French omelette for one in a few simple steps – the recipe can easily be doubled to serve two people.

Toss the tomatoes and garlic with the olive oil. Place on a foil-lined grill pan and cook under a medium heat for 4-5 minutes until just tender.

Ingredients: • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved • 2 tsp olive oil • 1 garlic clove, crushed • 2 large eggs • 1tbsp milk • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • Large knob of butter • Spinach and rocket leaves, to serve

Meanwhile, lightly beat the eggs and milk in a jug and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Heat the butter in a small omelette or nonstick frying pan until it is just foaming. Pour in the beaten eggs and stir gently with a fork, drawing the mixture in from the sides to the centre as it sets and letting the liquid egg run out to the sides.

TIP Take care not to overcook the omelette – keep the heat at medium and remove the pan from the heat when the top is still soft and creamy.

30

When the omelette is just set, stop stirring and cook for a further 30 seconds to brown the underside (see tip). Place the grilled tomatoes on top of the omelette.

5

Slide the omelette onto a serving plate, tipping the pan to gently fold it over the tomatoes. Serve immediately with salad.

Food & Domestic Services

Pies

31

Cake and Bake Chilled Orange Mousse with Fresh Orange Glaze A light, creamy and refreshing dessert that can be prepared a day in advance. Serve with crisp butter biscuits or shortbread fingers.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

3 gelatine leaves 150ml fresh orange juice 250g ricotta cheese 250g full fat soft cheese 100g caster sugar 2 tsp orange zest 300ml double cream 2 egg whites

FOR THE ORANGE GLAZE • 1 gelatine leaf • 150ml fresh orange juice • 2 oranges, peeled, segmented and flesh chopped • Fresh mint sprigs, to decorate

Serves 8 Ready in 1 hour, plus cooling and chilling

TIP Stir a spoonful of warmed

32

fine-shred marmalade into the orange glaze before it cools for an extra tangy flavour.

1. Soak the gelatine leaves in a shallow bowl of cold water for 5 minutes until soft. Heat the orange juice in a small pan until almost boiling then remove from the heat.

Squeeze the excess liquid from the gelatine leaves and stir into the hot juice until dissolved. Cool for 15 minutes.

2. Beat the ricotta and cream cheese together in a large bowl until smooth, then beat in the caster sugar and orange zest. Fold in the cooled gelatine.

3. Whip the cream in a bowl until softly peaking and in

a separate bowl whisk the egg whites until stiff. Fold the cream into the orange mixture followed by the egg whites.

4. Spoon the mixture into a 20cm square baking dish that

is at least 5cm deep. Gently level the surface and chill in the fridge for 3 hours, or until set.

5. To make the orange glaze, soften the gelatine in cold

water as in step one. Heat the orange juice in a small pan until almost boiling then remove from the heat.

Squeeze the excess liquid from the gelatine leaf and stir into the hot juice until dissolved. Cool for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until beginning to thicken. Pour over the chilled mousse then top with the diced orange flesh. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours, or until the glaze has set. Serve cut into squares decorated with fresh mint sprigs.

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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

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35

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!

The Royal Air Forces Association meet on the 2nd Thursday each month at 7.30pm in Wye Village Hall.

After a short business meeting we usually have a speaker followed by refreshments. Connection to the RAF is not necessary. We would be pleased to meet new members. Parking is not a problem. Contact: rita. elgar05@gmail.co.uk 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

36

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.

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 call Wendy Sanders 01303 813451 brabournewendy@gmail.com.

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 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 meet on the 3rd Wednesday of the month in the Durling Hall Sellindge (next to the main hall) at 7.15pm for 7.30pm start. 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 812165 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

BRABOURNE BAPTIST CHURCH

Plain Road, Brabourne Lees, Kent TN25 6QN Enquiries: Geoff Thorpe 01303 813152 or Babs Ruck 01303 813743 NEW!!! Messy Church: November 4 from 3pm – 5pm and then every first Saturday of the month. Families of all ages can get together for a time of fun!! Contact Margaret Austen 01303 812555 for details Art Club Our next meeting is on Tuesday November 14 from 10am – 12noon when visiting artist David Embry will be demonstrating the use of pastles. Further details from Mike on 01303 812484. New members will be made very welcome!

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 November 17. 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 Ladies Breakfast; Saturday November 18th at 8.45am The speaker will be Keeley Taylor from Carer’s Support charity, which is an independent charity commissioned by the local authority to provide Carers’ Assessments and Support services to family members, friends and neighbours who find themselves caring for someone at home.

Meeting Point Christmas Lunch; Thursday, November 30 at 12 noon. Please let Cathy know if you’re coming 01303 814132 Men’s Breakfast Due to unforeseen circumstances the speaker, Justyn Rees Larcombe, was unable to come in September but he will now come on Saturday 25th November instead.

Café Wednesday The Café is open every Wednesday from 10am to 11.30am. Drop in for coffee, biscuits, company and a warm friendly atmosphere.Choice of books available. Everybody welcome FREE!! First Wednesday of the month: A clinic is held on behalf of Hi-Kent, to service and provide batteries for hearing aids.

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.

Lively Discussions! Home Groups meet on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Everyone is welcome to come and join us! We are very informal and friendly. Please phone David 01303 814437 or Geoff 01303 813152

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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

Rye Bric a Brac & Collectables Market

Every Thursday 10.30am - 1.30pm Community Centre, Conduit Hill, Rye Contact: Mrs Hammond 01797 223605

Community Events, Clubs & Societies are free to list, send to events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk 37

Health

By Shirley Mearing www.tappinginharmony.com

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) body will become imbalanced, with the energy pathways in our body called meridians becoming blocked or sluggish. This is called a disruption to our energy body, EFT works to redress this imbalance.

By saying certain statements while taping meridian points to help focus our thoughts and emotions, negative thoughts lose their charge and we can move into more resourceful and positive ways of thinking and being.

EFT can address and overcome fear, anxiety, and any number of emotional issues encouraging free flowing positive energy through the energy body.

EFT stands for Emotional Freedom techniques.

Also known as tapping, it is an emotional version of acupuncture except we use our fingers to tap on certain meridian points instead of using needles. It is simple to learn and is non-invasive.

EFT addresses the emotional and physical issues that can be attributed to stress, anxiety, and trauma, which can result in emotional and physical ill health. It is well documented that when we are stressed we feel this in our body.

If we carry around these high emotions, traumas and guilts something will show up physically and emotionally and our energy Do you wish you had more energy?

Tired of everyday aches and pains?

Want to shift negative emotions, reduce stress and that sense of feeling stuck?

EFT works with unresolved negative emotions or fears, sabotaging thoughts and limiting beliefs and replaces these with positive thoughts processes, and feelings to help you feel relaxed and calm, improve wellbeing and help you to manifest the things you are wanting to attract into your life.

For more information, or to book an appointment please contact Shirley on 07871757499, or go to www.tappinginharmony.com or email shirley@tappinginharmony.com.

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39

Retirement: Time To Call In The Builders?

by Kate McLelland When Saga Home Insurance conducted a poll of UK residents who had retired or were just about to retire, it found that many of the people questioned had decided to undertake major household renovation projects, spending £17,000 on average to improve their homes.

If you are going to spend more time at home, it’s natural to want to make improvements. But before you start browsing the latest trends in glossy interior design magazines and booking a builder, it may help if you stop for a moment to consider the practicalities.

HOW LONG DO I WANT TO STAY IN MY PRESENT HOME? If you want to stay on in your home for another twenty years, then it’s advisable to ‘future-proof’ it by making it as energy efficient and accessible as possible. The changes you make now will avoid the need for disruption when you are older and less able to manage household renovation projects.

Eco-friendly improvements such as modern insulation and solar-panel heating can make a big difference to your annual energy bills and increase your property’s value in the long run.

40

Other improvements - designed to support you as you age - might include adding larger, doubleglazed windows that let in more light, replacing garden steps with a ramp, or putting in grab-bars to help when getting in and out of the bath.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON THE RENOVATION? If it seems likely that you will move on in the not-so-distant future, then you should avoid spending money that you won’t be able to recoup when you sell.

For example, there will be little chance of recouping the cost if you put a £25,000 bespoke kitchen into a terraced house valued at £150,000.

According to Ideal Home (idealhome.co.uk), one of the best ways to add value to your home is by building an extension or conservatory. The cost of adding a single-storey extension can increase the value of your property by 5%, a new en-suite or second bathroom can add a further 5%, while a new kitchen with plenty of storage can add up to 4% to your home’s value.

Estate agents can be a valuable source of advice on property trends in your area, so call your agent for some local insights.

HOW CAN I FINANCE HOME IMPROVEMENTS? From April 2015, UK residents aged 55 or over have been able to access the money in their state pension pots, spending or investing it as they wish, so this might provide a useful source of income for any home improvement projects. Taking up an equity release scheme is another possibility if you are over 55. This arrangement is similar to a mortgage, but your loan and interest are only paid back to the provider when you die or go into long-term care.

Recent events, including the Brexit vote and this year’s general election, have led to a more cautious, ‘wait-and-see’ attitude in the property market, so this is a good time to explore ways of creating more value in your current home. If you can resist the urge to spend, spend, spend whilst taking time to research the kind of refurbishment jobs that will really enhance your property’s value, you should find that that your investment will go on providing benefits well into the future.

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43

Puzzle Time

Word Ladder

Sudoku

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.

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!

I R I S

©Puzzlepress.co.uk

L I L Y

Crossword Across 7. Type of fruit (6) 8. Opulence (6) 9. Touch (4) 10. Start (8) 11. Modified (7) 13. Impede (5) 15. Remove from home (5) 17. Water closets (7) 20. Calculation (8) 21. Horrid (4) 23. Male relatives (6) 24. Snub (6)

44

Down 1. Manufactured (4) 2. Horse’s fastest pace (6) 3. Observed (7) 4. Chubby (5) 5. Specialist (6) 6. Piece of jewellery (8) 12. Splitting (8) 14. Advisory group (7)

16. Cold (6) 18. Caring (6)

19. Slightly drunk (5) 22. Lie in wait (4)

GP

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45

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

0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank

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 611 414 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

Doctors Surgery Hamstreet Surgery Sellindge Surgery

01233 730190 01303 812180

Parish Councils: Aldington & Bonnington

01233 721757

E: clerk@ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk www.ald-bonnpc.kentparishes.gov.uk

Brabourne & Smeeth Mersham & Sevington Sellindge

01233 623902 01233 750415 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

08457 740740

National Train Enquiries www.nationalrail.co.uk

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

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

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

Veterinary Surgeons Montgomery Vets

01303 813756

Ashford Volunteer Centre 01233 665 535 Age UK Ashford 01233 668 765 www.ageuk.org/ashford ageukashford.org@gmail.com CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com W: Www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk

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 Coverage

Delivered by Royal Mail to 56,400 Homes & Businesses

PUZZLE ANSWERS Kid’s Corner: Henry picks up ‘9 toffee apples’ taking the correct route arond the firework maze.

Word Ladder: IRIS irks arks arms aims ails oils oily LILY

Sudoku:

Crossword:

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