Villages West Dec & Jan 2022 by The Village Directory

The Village Directory Dec &Jan 2022

Villages West

The Old School House Restaurant

- Since 2006

Indian Cuisine

01233 733350 Online Ordering Available www.oldschoolhouserestaurant.co.uk

10% Discount on Takeaways (Cash Only) Last orders 10.30pm

Open 6 Days a week 5.30pm - 11.00pm Closed on Monday except Bank Holidays

The Street, Hamstreet, Ashford TN26 2HG

Welcome Hi everyone, I hope you are all well, welcome to the Christmas / New Year edition. This time last year I was buzzing, we had put Lockdown behind us, and I was ready to shop ‘till I dropped! I’ve since learned not to “count my chickens”, or in my case, turkeys. I have two in my freezer from last Christmas, and if it turns out to be just the three of us again, I’ll be searching the internet for imaginative things to do with a turkey (no comments on a postcard please!). On the positive side, there was plenty of Christmas Pudding to go round, and only two of us to eat it! I may have had a little more than I should! Bearing that in mind I’ve decided to prepare for this Christmas by trimming down a little first. Just last week I went on a long Sunday walk with my husband. He’s used to walking for miles, I’m not, so I was shattered as we walked down the lane next to our home. As I was considering how much I needed to put my feet up, I looked up to see a large, brown bull standing in the middle of the road, horns at the ready, blocking our way home! My husband told me to turn around and walk back the way we had come. I walked as fast as I could, thinking that running might not be a wise thing to do. Too scared to turn to look, I asked my husband if it was following us. He said “Yes, it’s running after us, run!”, I was so scared. Two ladies on horseback behind us also turned back the other way. I was franticly looking for a gap in the hedge that we could climb through, but thankfully it gave up the chase. We then had to find footpaths across the fields to get to our home. It was a new first in my life, although I wouldn’t recommend it as a “tick-in-the-box” moment for anyone! I really do think I earned all the Christmas Pudding I can eat for this year!

N & E Window Cleaning Services Water-fed Pole / Traditional Window Cleaning Fascia / Gutter / Patio Cleaning / Solar Panels Please contact Nathan Turner for a free quote

07764 193492 n_eturnercleaning@yahoo.com

S.C.S

Cesspool/Septic Tank Emptying

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Storey Plumbing

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Until next time please stay safe and have a wonderful Christmas.

Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk Feb/Mar Edition Deadline 10th Jan 22 2

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F_IVG_J000525 - Ledian - The Village Directory - FP - August/September Issue - Hyperlocal.indd 1

01/07/2021 17:15

Tel: 01233 367038 07500 193703

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The Garden

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Blackbird hatchlings

Anyone with a garden can start right away, as we should all be nurturing nature so that biodiversity can triumph. You need to select plants with ample benefits for insects, allow wood piles and untidy areas to become part of the border, and use vertical fences and walls for further planting.

The gift that keeps on giving There’s no better time to start giving to nature on a permanent basis. Most of us could improve our habits, so that we give more than we take. Within around two years, new developments in England will be expected to demonstrate that their projects will increase biodiversity by at least ten per cent. Known as Biodiversity Net Gain, this is a big change from what happens at the moment. The new Environment Bill will make it necessary for developers to use ecological features and environmental enhancements to protect and improve existing natural habitat and green infrastructure.

Best plants for wildlife Most gardens have room for a tree, if only a small one. Trees and shrubs can support a remarkable number of living things, so if you only have time to plant just one thing in your garden, make it a tree, a shrub or something that provides positive benefits for small creatures. If you have a little more time, a mixed hedge is just about the best you can offer wildlife. Betula: there are 521 species of invertebrates that are known to feed on birch trees and more than 100 of these are exclusive to that particular type of tree. Sorbus, the rowan tree: provides food for at least 160 species of insect and, of course, birds and small mammals love the berries. By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

The Garden Malus, the native crab apple: provides homes for at least 90 insect species. Many different insects visit the spring blossom, then birds and other creatures eat the fruits. Even ornamental varieties of this delightful tree provide rich biodiversity benefits.

Purple and blue flowers are best for bees! buddleia, catmint, lavender, pulmonaria, penstemon, allium and purple-flowering hardy geraniums can all be seen clearly. Ensure there is something flowering from early spring right through to autumn and even winter.

Amelanchier, the June berry or serviceberry tree: has something to offer wildlife during several seasons. Early spring flowers for pollinators make this small tree look like a white cloud. It also provides multiple nesting opportunities for birds and juicy berries during the late summer.

Butterflies love hebes, sedum (Hylotelephium varieties), Verbena bonariensis, Origanum, Erysimum ‘Bowles Mauve’, buddleia, scabious and many wild flowers such as knapweed.

Conifers: really are worth having! Some have earned negative press over the years but this doesn’t detract from their value to wildlife. There’s probably no better tree for providing nesting sites and protection for a wide range of creatures. Flowering shrubs and perennials: choose single flowers over double, every time. They have an open shape that allows access for the pollinators and nectar-drinkers. Look for yellow stamens within a flower; these will support insects.

Simple flowers for insects

LEADING THE WAY IN LAWN CARE

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Old Willow Farm Building, Norwood Lane, Newchurch, New Romney, Kent, TN29 0DY

Tarmac & Resin Bound Gravel Specialists

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The Garden

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Free Parking This Christmas Season for Shoppers in Ashford and Tenterden This December shoppers can enjoy free parking in most council-owned car parks in Ashford and Tenterden. Ashford Borough Council is once again offering free parking in both towns to encourage residents and visitors to do their Christmas shopping locally, and support our local businesses in these difficult times. Free parking will be available in council-run car parks in Ashford and Tenterden (apart from Recreation Ground car park, Tenterden) on the following days and times:

This seasonal parking offer is in addition to the existing free parking scheme that is available in selected council-run car parks at certain times, e.g. free after 3pm in Edinburgh Road and Elwick Place. More details can be found via our website - https://www.ashford.gov.uk/parking/generalparking/free-parking-in-the-borough Cllr Peter Feacey, Portfolio of Community Safety and Wellbeing said: “It has been another tough year for many of our local retailers so I’m pleased that once again we are able to offer free parking in Ashford and Tenterden on the run up to Christmas. “The festive season is one of the busiest shopping periods of the year, and Ashford and Tenterden have a lot to offer shoppers. We encourage residents to support their home town by doing their Christmas shopping locally and help boost trade for our hardworking, home-grown businesses.”

• Friday 3, 10 and 17 December from 3pm • Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 December all day

We’re here when you need us!

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The weinor awning highligh Design

Make the Most of

Outdoor Living Design Full-Casette Awning

With the unreliability of our climate here in the UK, an awning increases the potential time available for you to unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Awnings can keep you cool on the hottest days, but also enable you to enjoy your deck or patio when the weather is less than perfect, so that it becomes a proper extension to your home. Awnings also help protect carpets and soft furnishings from fading, without having to draw the curtains and lose the outdoor view, and will also help to protect precious plants from drying out in really hot weather. Combining furniture, plants, lighting and accessories creates the perfect environment for dining or relaxing with loved ones. Weather Sensors A wind sensor automatically retracts your screens and awning when strong winds are detected, protecting your system from damage. A sun senor will automatically lower your awnings to block out strong sunshine and keep your living room cool. Lighting devices can also be added to your electric awnings, allowing you to enjoy longer evenings outdoors. Heating and Lighting Allows you relax in the fresh air, no matter what the weather. Side Screens 6 The addition of side screens cuts down on wind and mist coming under the sides of an awning, creating an outdoor room and a sheltered place for outdoor dining, relaxation or for children and pets to play, shielded from direct sun. Add a Splash of Colour With a variety of fabrics available and a wide range of colours for both the awning fabric and the frame itself you can be inspired to create a wonderful new outdoor space.

The casette system provides complete protection against wind, moisture and UV rays. When retracted, both the awning arms and fabric are fully covered by the casette. Semi-Casette Awning The fabric on this folding arm awning is completely covered by the casette, offering protection against weather damage when retracted.

Design is a question uncompromisingly b

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personal tastes and furnishings. When passing showers threaten, or when the provide near-instant protection and shade. Lab test Whether classic or avant-garde, weinor measurements that it can be as much as awnings stand out forshow their high-quality materials and aesthetic look and shape. 20 degrees cooler under an awning’s canopy. The result is ultramodern technology Because awnings prevent the sun from shining in a contemporary design. Feel free to choose the awning that best your glass doors, they through windows andmeets sliding personal tastestemperatures and furnishings. inside cooler as well. can keep They6 can also help prevent carpets and furniture from fading in sunlight.

Design is a question of style6 – sun gets hot, beautiful retractable uncompromisingly shape awnings

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The Home GAS HEATING ELECTRICAL

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Books make great presents, especially when you can borrow them back in January… Big Panda and Tiny Dragon – James Norbury Fans of The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse, and other illustrated books will love this new offering by James Norbury. Each of the handdrawn illustrations is accompanied by a short conversation between a panda and a dragon, offering words of wisdom we can all learn from. A book to treasure and to dip into time and time again.

Books make great presents, especially when you can borrow them back in January…

at Kentish Stories Cover 09 21_Layout 1 27/09/2021 14:01 Page 1

Great Kentish Stories - Malcolm Horton Freckles – Cecilia Ahern

£8.99

Malcolm Horton

Who would have thought that the cradle of British aviation was the unfashionable Isle of Sheppey or the greatest technological change in printing computer typesetting first took place in Europe in the small town of Westerham in 1965 and that the first and only recognised American Princess is buried in Gravesend and that the poet who wrote the first sonnet was not Shakespeare but Sir omas Wyatt of Allington Castle near Maidstone, reputed lover of Anne Boleyn. ese are just some of the short stories contained in this unique book. Read and discover Kent’s best secrets.

Great Kentish Stories

Great Kentish Stories is a for collection about Allegra has made a life herselfof intwenty Dublin,essays working as apeople trafficand warden events haveas largely been model. neglected byenjoys historians are part with a that sideline an artist’s She the but routine and of theKent’s rules, Big Panda and Tiny Dragon – James Norbury rich as the gateway to England. It features theup eccentric, bizzare but tapestry she’s in Dublin for a reason and needs to pluck the courage to Fans of The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and people The Horse, and other illustrated and whoA have lived and passed through the driver gardenmakes of see outrageous her mission through. chance encounter with an angry books will love this new offering byWho James Norbury. Each ofthat the the handEngland. would have thought cradle of British aviation was Allegra re-evaluate her life and gives her a new purpose. A light-hearted, drawn illustrations is accompanied by a short between the unfashionable Isleconversation of Sheppey, or the firstaand only recognised American humorous tale with some darker undertones, Freckles is sure to appeal to panda and a dragon, offering words of wisdom we can alland learn A who wrote the first sonnet Princess is buried in Gravesend, thatfrom. the poet a range of readers. book to treasure and to dip into time and time again. was not Shakespeare but Sir Thomas Wyatt of Allington Castle near Maidstone, reputed lover–of Anne Boleyn. The Exiles Christina Baker Kline

Great Kentish Stories is a collection of twenty essays about people and events that have largely been neglected by historians but are part of Kent’s rich tapestry as the gateway to England featuring the eccentric, bizarre and outrageous people who have lived and passed through the garden of England. is book concentrates on the strange tales surrounding these extraordinary people and events that you won’t find in the conventional guide book.

Great

Kentish Stories

Malcolm Horton

ISBN 9781916074620

Buying for a fan of historical fiction? Exiles is a solid choice. Several Freckles – Cecilia Ahern characters’ lives become entwined when pregnant Evangeline is Allegra has made a life for herself in Dublin, working as a traffic warden sentenced to hard labour in Australia in 1840. On the ship, she meets with a sideline as an artist’s model. She enjoys the routine and the rules, teenage Hazel. Meanwhile, Mathinna is faced with losing her family and but she’s in Dublin for a reason and needs to pluck up the courage to indigenous community when the governor and his wife decide she needs see her mission through. A chance encounter with an angry driver makes ‘refining’. A rich, multi-layered story with some shocking plot twists, The Allegra re-evaluate her life and gives her a new purpose. A light-hearted, Exiles is the perfect book for curling up with on Boxing Day. humorous tale with some darker undertones, Freckles is sure to appeal to a of readers. Allrange In – Billy Jean King

Former tennis pro Billy Jean King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in The Exiles – Christina Baker Kline what would become known as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’. Since then, King Buying for a fan of historical fiction? Exiles is a solid choice. Several has fought many more battles, from striving to be taken seriously as characters’ lives become entwined when pregnant Evangeline is a female athlete to campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights. Her long-awaited sentenced to hard labour in Australia in 1840. On the ship, she meets autobiography also reveals the more personal challenges King has teenage Hazel. Meanwhile, Mathinna is faced with losing her family and overcome, from an eating disorder to near-bankruptcy. A must for tennis indigenous community when the governor and his wife decide she needs fans and autobiography lovers. ‘refining’. A rich, multi-layered story with some shocking plot twists, The Exiles is theTest perfect book Shelf for curling with onOttolenghi Boxing Day. Ottolenghi Kitchen: Loveup – Yotam and Noor Murad

If you’re buying for someone who loves poring over recipe books, you can’t All In – Billy Jean King go wrong with Ottolenghi. For his latest book, Ottolenghi has partnered Former tennis pro Billy Jean King famously defeated Bobby Riggs in with head chef Noor Murad. The result is a book packed with recipes what would become known as the ‘Battle of the Sexes’. Since then, King to help home cooks to impress with less stress. The recipes are also has fought many more battles, from striving to be taken seriously as adaptable, so the reader can bring their own twist to a dish or use up a female athlete to campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights. Her long-awaited leftovers. Just make sure the person you’re buying for promises to make autobiography also reveals the more personal challenges King has you the Upside-Down Lemon, Maple and Vanilla Pudding… overcome, from an eating disorder to near-bankruptcy. A must for tennis fans and autobiography lovers.Golding The Replacement – Melanie

A delicious thriller for a reader to sink their teeth into on a cold winter’s Ottolenghi Test Kitchen: Shelf Love – Yotam Ottolenghi and Noor Murad night, The Replacement centres on Ruby and her sister, Joanna. The book If you’re buying for someone who loves poring over recipe books, you can’t starts as Ruby claims a seemingly abandoned child as her own. Soon go wrong with Ottolenghi. For his latest book, Ottolenghi has partnered after, police detective Joanna is called to investigate the attempted murder with head chef Noor Murad. The result is a book packed with recipes of Ruby’s neighbour. Elements of folk lore and mythology are woven into to help home cooks to impress with less stress. The recipes are also the story, adding a unique twist to a familiar genre. adaptable, so the reader can bring their own twist to a dish or use up leftovers. Just make sure the person you’re buying for promises to make By Kate Duggan you the Upside-Down Lemon, Maple and Vanilla Pudding…

The Replacement – Melanie Golding A delicious thriller for a reader to sink their teeth into on a cold winter’s

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Stephen Jepson Joinery & French Polishing

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Glowing reds and golds with ornaments, gifts and baubles creates a dramatic table setting. Faux-fur stocking, £5; cable-knit throw, £15; fur-trim pillow, £10; stag ornament, £8; trio of frosted tree decorations, £8; all B&M: 0330 838 9000; bmstores.co.uk.

Style a festive table for delicious meals with family and friends Carefully setting and dressing the dining table for a Christmas meal is part of the ritual of Christmas Day. It is best to plan ahead, consider how to achieve the desired look and what key ingredients are required. The theme can be simple and natural, in muted, neutral colours or sparkly with white and silver, frosting and tinsel. A classic look employs red, gold and deep green, while a modern effect might use pastels or neons. Stick tightly to the theme so it all looks unified. If your dining table is not up to scratch, use a tablecloth to disguise scratches, stains and separate tables butted together – plain white cotton or unbleached linen are classics.

Jazz up a simple wooden table with chunky crockery, golden goblets and baubles in bowls. Grey wooden micro star, £17.99; midwinter garland, £34.99; 50 warm white LED green micro fairy lights, £12.99; set of three antique gold glass baubles, £19.99; TruGlow® LED pillar candle trio, £26.99; Lights4fun: 01423 816 040; lights4fun.co.uk. Photograph: Oliver Perrott

Decorate with a lace, embroidered or scalloped trim, or opt for a festive all-over Christmas pattern. Perhaps add a slim runner along the table, either of ready-made fabric or with a narrow row of suitable decorations along the table – such as an evergreen garland with pine cones and berries, micro lights, tea lights in saucers, lanterns with candles, or floral displays. An alternative to a runner is a centrepiece, perhaps a classic wreath with candles, an arrangement of fresh flowers and foliage, By Katherine Sorrell

The Home or containers with Christmas bulbs. Other variations are a grouping of lanterns or pillar candles, a pile of small presents, a bowl of coloured-glass baubles or a Christmas ornament. If you can hang something above the table, ideas include a selection of greenery entwined around a slim metal frame, a scattering of metallic-paper origami stars, a mobile made from baubles on ribbons hung from a wooden bough, or a simple swirl of fairy lights. Similarly, wreaths, baubles, pine cones, even small wrapped gifts, can be tied to or hung from the backs of wooden chairs for a pretty look. Place mats and napkins are important elements and napkins can be folded or rolled and prettified with additions such as cinnamon sticks, candy canes, mini wrapped gifts, tiny baubles, small wooden stars, ribbons or coloured twine. Finally, add crockery, cutlery and glassware. Use your best set arranged super-neatly: bowls on top of side plates on top of dinner plates; cutlery for all the courses; glasses for water, wine and fizz. The result? A gorgeous, welcoming Christmas table.

Christmas-themed, red-and-white crockery for a warm and inviting table. Red and white Fair Isle 12-piece dinner set, £20; White Christmas Wreath 12-piece dinner set, £20; both George Home at Asda: 0800 952 0101; direct.asda.com.

Clubs & Societies Ashford Active Retirement Association (AARA). General club meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. We meet at the SWAN centre Newtown from 2-4 pm. Other activities we have are walking club on the last Friday of each month, games afternoon on 1st Tuesday of each month, we have card and board games, plus indoor curling and more. We have a monthly lunch club, day trips and holidays. It’s for the retired and semi retired. Contact 01233 501372 for more information, or email ianjsharp49 @aol.com. Ashford Astronomical Society meets at Woodchurch Memorial Hall on the last Friday of every month. Meetings start at 7.30pm and are open to all. There are informative talks, star-gazing sessions. Further details can be found by emailing chairman@ ashfordastro.org.uk. Bethersden Art Group Would you like to develop your artistic skills, or try a different medium? Then why not come along and join a cheerful and friendly group who enjoy the art challenges set by a visiting tutor. We meet on Thursday evenings in Bethersden Village Hall, 7.30-9.30pm, for ten weeks each term. For further information and/or to express interest, contact Sue - 01233 820585. Bethersden Community Cinema Third Wednesday in the month. Bethersden Village Hall. Tickets £5. Films start at 7.30. Email: bethersdencommunitycinema@gmail.com. Biddenden Junior Football Club - Always looking for new players 7 -18, for fun and enjoyable football. Contact Steve on 07958 447948. Biddenden Squash Club 01580 291130 Gordon Jones Playing Field, Biddenden. Friendly club with 2 courts and a bar. email: info@biddendensquash. co.uk www.biddendensquash.co.uk Biddenden Horticultural Society Annual membership £5 new members welcome. Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931. www.biddendenhorticulturalsociety.co.uk East Kent Morris Men and Women: This is a mixed side of women and men dancing together. Weekly Wednesday dance practices at Mountbatten Hall, Mersham from 8pm to 10pm; afterwards we practise drinking in the pub opposite, the Farrier’s Arms! We dance Cotswold style Morris; this is the handkerchief waving and stick clashing variety. No experience required. Why not give it a try? Find us on Facebook or call John on 01233 625 362 Pop-In Centre for the over 50s, Lower Road, Woodchurch. Every Weds. 2 to 4pm. Also marquee open at same time for 1000s of bargains. T: Clive 01233 860139.

Clubs & Societies

ATTENTION PARENTS, GRAND PARENTS & CHILDREN GRAND CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES SAT. 18th & SUN 19th DECEMBER FROM 11am ’TIL LATE NUMEROUS STALLS PLUS MASSES OF BARGAINS IN THE MARQUEE (STALLS AVAILABLE THROUGH THE WOODCHURCH HUB. 01233 861381) ALL DAY BREAKFAST (10am to 1.30pm) THEN BARBEQUE AFTERNOON & EVENING ENTERTAINMENT IN THE AFTERNOON, 6pm JOIN OUR CHRISTMAS SONGS SING-ALONG BY CANDLELIGHT, FOLLOWED BY A THEATRE ORGAN CONCERT FATHER CHRISTMAS WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE MOST OF THE DAY.

Hamstreet Baby & Toddler Group meet every Wednesday (term time only) in the Victory Hall from 9.30-11.30pm T: Hannah 01233 733863. Hamstreet Victory Hall - Short Mat Bowls Tues and Fri evening 7.30pm- 10pm. Pilates Class Tues morning 9.15-1015am. Yoga Class Wed afternoon 1.30-2.45pm. Table Tennis Wed Evenings (every other week) 7pm-9pm. Tai Chi Classes Thurs Mornings 9.30-11.30am. Dog Training Classes on Thurs Evening 6-8pm. Contact Lucy on 01233 730997 for details. Hire of hall available for parties £10 per hour. Fully functional kitchen, outside green and play park. disabled toilet and access. Hamstreet Sports & Leisure Assoc The ground floor can be hired for sports changing which consists of male and female changing, Showers and disabled wet room. Along with the field and the multi use courts,we also have the top floor of the pavilion which consist of 2 rooms an office and a Lounge / Bar, we hire this out for small functions of 60 people, the building has disabled access and to the first floor we have a wheel chair lift. The pavilion also has a small fitted kitchen. High Halden Craft Group - Meets every Monday (except Bank Holidays) at High Halden Memorial Hall 10.30am till 1.00pm. £3.50 includes materials, coffee and free raffle ticket For more info call 01580 291621 or 01233 85030 High Halden Short Mat Bowls Club We play every Friday from October to April in the Memorial home from 2pm to 5pm. New members welcome. For more information phone Ralph on 07767 147720 or visit https://www.highhalden.org.uk/community/ high-halden-village-16240/short-mat-bowls/ High Halden Horticultural Society The society runs a variety of events thoughout the year including spring, summer and autumn shows, quiz, speakers and outings. New members welcome, please contact 01233 850127 for more information Jean Mealham Pop-In Centre Lower Road, Woodchurch TN26 3SQ. (for the over 60s is now re-open) Every Wednesday from 2pm to 4pm. Refreshments supplied, but please bring your own mug. The Marquee will be open to anyone wishing to donate items or to purchase any of the thousands of items offered for sale. Call Clive or Shirley for details. 01233 860 139 Little Chart Bridge Club Friendly duplicate bridge every Tuesday afternoon at Little Chart Village Hall. For more information please contact Carmen Gunther on 01233 840 395.

Clubs & Societies Shadoxhurst Flower Club are a small, friendly club who meet at 7.30pm in Shadoxhurst Village Hall on the first Wed of every month except January. No experience of flower arranging needed to join, just an interest in seeing blooms displayed advantageously. Demonstrators visit most months but members also workshops and an annual garden visit. If you would like to get to know us, please call the secretary on 01233 732212. Smarden Heritage Centre Smarden Charter Hall, Smarden. Open every Friday morning 9.30 – 11.30. www.smardenheritagecentre.synthasite.com Smarden Short Mat Bowls Club We welcome new novice or experienced bowlers of all ages. We meet every Thurs. morning at 9.45am and occasionally on a weekday evening, in the Charter Hall Smarden. Contact Malcolm 01233 770572. Weald of Kent Computer Club meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm via ZOOM (except August and December). New members welcome. Enquiries to secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk or contact Adrian Lidgett (01580)291931. Visit www.wealdofkentcomputerclub.co.uk Weald U3A is a society for the dynamic over 50s with a thirst for knowledge, social activities and new experiences. We have a large number of interest groups including Bridge, Films, Italian, jazz, Stargazers, Lunches and Theatre Visits. Please see our website www.u3asites.org.uk/weald or contact Richard Sargent, tel: 01580764239, email: r.sargent@btinternet.com Ashford Concert Band Christmas Concert Friday 17th December 2021, 7.30pm St Mary's Parish Church, Ashford. Join the Band for a fun and festive evening of live music from stage and screen, plus a few yuletide favourites. Proceeds will be donated to local charities. Adults £7, Under 14s Free (must be accompanied by an adult) Tickets available from: www. ashfordconcertband.co.uk/tickets, direct from band members or at the door.

Tenterden Spiritualist Centre

The last meeting for this year is on Saturday 11th Dec 2021 with Paul Broadway, which is an evening of Clairvoyance. Doors open 6pm for 6.30 start. entry is £4 Highbury Hall. Highbury Lane. Tenterden, the meetings are now every fortnight, look at our page on facebook. We should be back on the 22nd January 2022.

STRICTLY 18+

Professional Services

9 OUT OF 10 CUSTOMERS RENEW WITH US EACH YEAR To find out why, talk to us today about your home and car insurance needs. Speak to your local NFU Mutual Ashford, Tenterden & Whitfield agent on 01580 766 174 or email Tenterden_Agency@nfumutual.co.uk

D P Jackson, G R Ashby & D M Smith is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers.

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Try something new

It’s all too easy to get stuck in a beauty rut. If you fancy trying something new, book yourself in for a skin consultation or mini makeover at a cosmetics counter. Or visit a few counters and ask for their recommendations. (You may get given some free samples to try at home.) You could also sign up for a beauty box subscription, like those by Birchbox, Glossy Box and Look Fantastic, which will give you the chance to sample lots of different brands.

Supercharge your bath

Who doesn’t love a soak in the bath on a cold winter’s night? Make yours a treat for your skin and senses with a handful of fragranced bath salts. Dove’s are a good choice. They’re made from pure sea salt to ease aching muscles, with added natural moisturisers to boost hydration. And you have a choice of three aromatherapy-inspired fragrances, at £6.99 from www.boots. com and www.superdrug.com.

Give your nails a break

Gels and acrylics are great, but your nails do need a rest now and then to recuperate. If your nails are feeling brittle, file them short to reduce the risk of breakage. Treat them to a weekly nailstrengthening treatment and a daily cuticle oil. If you want some colour, choose a gentle nail polish. Nailberry polishes (£15, www.nailberry.co.uk) are breathable and free from alcohol, phthalates and harsh chemicals.

Feed your skin

Boost a healthy diet with a vitamin supplement. Manifesto’s Beauty gummies (£39.90, www.manifesto-nutrition.co) are a good choice as they’re packed with vitamins and antioxidants and taste great. The hero ingredient is astaxanthin, which has been found to improve skin’s elasticity. There’s also zinc, biotin and Vitamin A to help strengthen your hair and nails, collagen boosting Vitamin C, and other ingredients your skin will thank you for.

Use SPF

Your skin doesn’t need to be at risk of burning to be damaged by UV rays. So it’s important to protect it all year around. A good facial sunscreen shouldn’t feel greasy or block pores. Alternatively, you can just opt for a moisturiser with added SPF, but to get the full benefit, you may need to use more than usual.

Treat your hair

If you struggle to find the time for a weekly hair mask, try an overnight one. JOICO’s Defy Damage Sleepover Treatment contains moringa seed oil to add shine and softness, along with other natural ingredients that help to strengthen hair and protect it from further damage. It’s non-greasy and you don’t even need to rinse it out the following morning. It costs £20 at www.lookfantastic.com.

Switch to green beauty

It’s simpler than you might think to make more eco-conscious choices. To start with, look for easily recyclable, zero-waste packaging. Check that the brands you use are certified crueltyfree. And swap disposable products for reusable ones, such as a bamboo razors, refillable deodorants and washable cleansing pads. To make life easier, buy from retailers that have strict eco policies, like www.biggreensmile.com, www.naturalcollection.com and www.lovelula.com.

Health & Well-Being

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Puzzle Page

Solve the anagrams then put the words into the grid AHS HIS IRS OTW

AFOS IRST AEMSU ABLST

DESRR AGLSS ACIMOT APRSTY

ADEPRY ACHSTY AGHHPPROOT

Starting at 1 and finishing at 49, track your way from one square to another, either horizontally, vertically or diagonally, placing consecutive numbers into the empty squares as you go. Some numbers are already given.

2 4

7 6 8 9 7 3 1 2 7 9 1 HARD

Sudoku

9 1

5 6 8 5 3 9 2 4 2 6 4 #1

EASY

You have two minutes to find all the words of three or more letters that can be made from the letters above. Plurals are allowed, proper nouns are not. The 6-letter word will always be just a normal everyday word. 3 letters: 21 4 letters: 16 5 letters: 7 6 letters: 1

Sudoku

Easy

1 7 6 8 7 6 2 9 6 8 4 2 5 7 1 9 5 4 3 8 3 5 6 1 6 1 4 9 3 30

E H T R A W

2 4

7 6 8 9 7 3 1 2 7 9 1 HARD

Hard

9 1

5 6 8 5 3 9 2 4 2 6 4 #1

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Food & Domestic Services

These are a popular snack with adults and children alike and are also a great energising boost before or after a workout – perfect as an afternoon pick-me-up or when you fancy a sweet treat. Make a batch of these and store them in the fridge or freezer. Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus chilling Cooking time: 2 minutes Makes: 20 Balls

1. Place the coconut oil and xylitol (or stevia) in a pan. Gently melt over a low heat, stirring to dissolve the sweetener. Allow to cool slightly, then tip into a food processor and add the nut butter. Process briefly until combined.

Ingredients • 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted • 3 tbsp xylitol or 1–2 tsp granulated stevia • 220g nut butter (cashew, almond or peanut) • 4 tbsp coconut flour • 60g vegan vanilla or berry protein powder • 1 tsp acai or goji berry powder (optional) • 50g dried berries (cranberries, cherries etc.) • Desiccated coconut, to coat

2. Add the coconut flour, protein powder and acai or goji berry powder (if using), and blend again to form a stiff dough. If it seems too wet add a little more coconut flour or protein powder. The mixture should be firm but soft. Add the dried berries and pulse briefly, just to break them up slightly. 3. Tip some desiccated coconut onto a plate. Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and shape into walnut-sized balls, then roll them in the coconut until coated on all sides. 4. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up before eating. Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition per ball: 117kcal, fat 8g (of which saturates 2.8g), carbohydrates 7g (of which sugars 2.5g), protein 5.5g

Food & Domestic Services Free Surveys

In Season December to January

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10+

Happy NewYear 33

Food & Domestic Services

Ramen Tofu Noodle Bowl

This is such a light, refreshing soup and 1. Use a spiraliser to make long noodles from the low-carb too, thanks to the addition of courgette; alternatively use a swivel potato peeler to vegetable noodles. You could also use create long strips. Set aside. If using kelp or regular kelp noodles or regular noodles instead. noodles prepare according to instructions and drain well. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 14 minutes Serves: 4

2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan and add the tofu. Sauté for 5 minutes over a medium-high heat until the tofu is lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside.

• 1 medium courgette (or use 150g kelp 3. Heat the remaining oil in a pan and sauté the spring noodles or cooked regular noodles) • 1½ tbsp olive oil onion and garlic for 1–2 minutes over a medium heat. • 450g firm tofu, drained and cut into Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to the boil. Add the 2cm cubes pak choi and mushrooms and simmer for 5 minutes until • 2 spring onions, finely chopped the pak choi has wilted. Stir in the miso paste, tamari soy • 2 garlic cloves, crushed sauce, beansprouts, tofu and courgette (or other) noodles • 600ml vegetable stock and stir briefly. Turn off the heat and allow the soup to sit for • 2 pak choi, roughly chopped 1–2 minutes to allow the noodles to soften. • 150g shiitake mushrooms, sliced • 1 tbsp white miso paste 4. Ladle the soup into bowls and scatter over the sesame • 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce seeds and coriander to serve. • Handful of beansprouts To serve Nutrition per serving: 176kcal, fat 10.6g (of which saturates 3g), • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds carbohydrates 5.4g (of which sugars 3.7g), protein 14.5g • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

Food & Domestic Services

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Twelve days of Christmas Health 1

One person in the room. It can all get a bit much with full-on socialising. Don’t be embarrassed about booking in some me time and recharging your batteries before starting up again.

7 Seven swans a-swimming. Not only is swimming good for your cardiovascular health and muscle toning, it does it without putting strain on your body.

Two glasses, but if one is alcohol, the other should be water. This will both keep you hydrated and slow down your alcohol intake meaning you’ll be ready to start up again the next day.

Z ZZ

Eight hours of sleep a night. Some people claim to manage on less, but repeated studies say that eight hours is best for our physical and mental health.

Three French hens…or British. Eggs are pretty much the perfect food; they contain a little bit of almost every nutrient we need – loads of vitamins and minerals including calcium.

9 Nine days of a cold. The average cold lasts around nine days. All the advice on how to avoid Covid applies for colds too, so keep washing those hands.

Four calling friends. Christmas isn’t always non-stop happiness. Whether it’s you that needs to reach out, or it’s friends that would appreciate a call, this is the perfect time to do it.

10 Ten…thousand steps a day is an ideal goal to improve your health and your mood. Over 4,000 steps is also good though, provided they aren’t all between the sofa and the fridge.

Five portions of vegetables a day. Christmas Day’s dinner will probably reach the target easily. But keep an eye on your intake every other day too.

11 Eleven maids a-milking. Milk is very good for you – everybody knows that. Although milk alternatives don’t have the same nutrition, if you are eating a balanced diet, plant-based will be fine.

Six grams of salt. The British Heart Foundation recommends a maximum of six grams of salt per day – about one level teaspoon. Remember to count salt in prepared food.

12 Twelve o’clock. The start of the new year is when many of us start our health resolutions. For the best results, find some time in December to do your research and preparation. Happy 2022!

Kid’s Corner

37 Crossword

Across: 1 Dock, 3 Diamonds, 9 Execute, 10 Agree, 11 Manufactured, 14 Nap, 16 Crude, 17 You, 18 Nevertheless, 21 Adapt, 22 Pattern, 23 Everyday, 24 Lyre. Down: 1 Dreaming, 2 Clean, 4 Ice, 5 Measurements, 6 Nursery, 7 Spew, 8 Sufficiently, 12 Count, 13 Nuisance, 15 Prepare, 19 Every, 20 Fake, 22 Pea.

Sudoko Easy

Mini Cross

Across: 1 Blast, 4 Sofa, 6 Photograph, 9 Amuse, 10 Yachts, 12 Stir, 13 Dress. Down: 2 Atomic, 3 Two, 4 Sir, 5 Ash, 6 Prayed, 7 Glass, 8 Pastry, 11 His.

Hard

Hidato

Kid’s Page 1. December 2. Holly 3. Cookies 4. Ornaments 5. Mrs Claus 6. Stocking 7. Santa 8. Jingle 9. Prancer 10. Mistletoe 11. Reindeer 12. Christmas Eve 13. Cupid 14. Star 15. Letter 16. Elf 17. Chimney 18. Rudolph 19. Ho Ho Ho 20. North Pole

Puzzle Solutions Volunteers and Donations are welcome, visit our website or call 07514 114613 The Retreat, Brickyard Farm, Cripple Hill, High Halden, Kent, TN26 3LJ

2022 Calendar Available An Excellent Christmas gift for any animal lover! Open for Public Visits From March to November every year. Free admission, free parking, café, holiday accommodation etc

www.retreatanimalrescue.org.uk

High Halden

The Retreat Animal Rescue & Sanctuary

Important Information Emergency 999 Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden

Crimestoppers

101 0800 555 111

NHS 24 111 www.111.nhs.uk Help if you have a medical problem and you’re not sure what to do William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331

Samaritans

www.samaritans.org

116 123

Electricity: Contact UK Power Networks 24 hours a day on 0800 3163 105 / 0333 3232 105 or go online to ukpowernetworks.co.uk Natural Gas: 0800 111 999

Doctors Surgery Hamstreet Surgery Veterinary Surgeons Montgomery Vets Cinque Ports Vets Milbourne Equine Vets Ashford Volunteer Centre Parish Councils: Appledore: Bethersden: Biddenden: High Halden: Hothfield: Orlestone: Ruckinge: Shadoxhurst: Smarden: Warehorne: Woodchurch: Ashford Borough Council www.ashford.gov.uk Ashford Gateway info@ashfordgateway.co.uk www.ashfordgateway.co.uk Tenterden Gateway Citizens Advice Bureau Public Notary - Trevor Chapman Age UK Ashford www.ageuk.org/ashford ageukashford.org@gmail.com Ashford Counselling Service info@ashfordcounselling.org.uk www.ashfordcounselling.co.uk

01233 730190 01303 813756 01233 813003 01233 500505 01233 665 535 07932 813684 (01303) 892621 01580 890750 07900 693572 (01233) 733994 (01233) 628481 07729 734149 07729 734149 07752 395412 (01233) 758298 (01233) 733994 01233 331111 0845 8 247 247 01580 762558 01233 626185 01233 860216 01233 668 765

CARM www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk E:office@carmromneymarsh.org.uk Macmillan Cancer Support W: www.forget-me-nots.co.uk Royal British Legion 01233 620 167 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 07767 326138 e: mssoutheast@gmail.com South East Kent Polio Branch e: flamingo@btinternet.com. NSPCC: Tenterden & District 01293 651840 CPRE Kent 01233 714540 Transport www.arrivabus.co.uk www.stagecoachbus.com www.nationalrail.co.uk Wealden Wheels: 01233 840000 Royal Mail Residential Customer Services 08457 740740 Village Halls Appledore 01233 758586 Bethersden 01233 820630 Biddenden 01580 291320 Bilsington 01233 720818 Bromley Green Road 01233 733613 Hamstreet 01233 733319 Hamstreet Pavilion 01233 732457 Graham Woodcock 01233 733556 High Halden 01233 743747 Hothfield 01233 625942 Kenardington 01233 758243 Ruckinge 01233 421149 Shadoxhurst 07729 734149 Smarden 07775 683430 St. Michaels 01580 763396 Stubbs Cross 01233 623139 Warehorne 01233 733718 Woodchurch 01233 860418 Woodchurch Scout & Guide Community Centre 01233 861236

High Pressure Jetting Service & Repair to Sewage treatment plants Soakaway Testing

01233 610083

Cesspool Emptying Service

01233 840624

Disclaimer: Every care is taken to ensure this directory is as accurate as possible but the publishers do not accept responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions.

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