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JUNE 2005

MAY  PARISH COUNCIL MEETING CONCLUDED

 A resident asked about the problems of youths riding motorbikes in the village.  PC Ford reported that in conjunction with the village warden he was tackling the problem of nuisance motorbikes in the Mill Pond area.  Another resident reported that for several evenings recently a motorbike had been driven across the playing fields with 3 youths on board.  In answer to a question from the Chairman PC Ford reported that under the 2002 Police Reform Act such bikes can be seized by the police.  In addition the riders can be prosecuted for offences such as driving without insurance, licence, etc.

At the open forum a resident asked if the recently installed  dog waste bin at the playing fields could be resited.  The clerk replied that the council had taken  advice from the dog warden regarding its position but that it could be moved if thought necessary.

Two residents asked the council for assistance in their efforts to promote the expansion of equestrian access in the area.  They were working in conjunction with the British Horse Society and the KCC for greater equestrian access in the village and surrounding areas.

The council’s comments on the following Planning applications may be viewed at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Development Control offices at Kings Hill:

Removal of one Walnut Tree in rear garden of 240 Tonbridge Road, Additional driveway access at 229 Canon Lane, removal of planning condition to allow use of residential annex as an independent dwelling at 37 Barming Road; re-pollard mature weeping willow and reduce side laterals to balance at 22 Mill Lane, demolition of existing hall to allow for construction of new village hall, 147 Tonbridge Road, 4 no bedroom flats and reduction in existing commercial/residential car parking to residential parking only at Bow General Stores, 1 Bow Road, various works to trees adjoining wall adjoining Canon Lane for  Wateringbury Place.

The June meeting of the council will be on Tuesday 7 June at 7.30pm .  This will be the very last activity in the hall before it is demolished to make way for the new hall.  From the July 5 meeting onwards the Parish Council will meet in the School until further notice.

FOOTPATH WALK

The June walk will be on Sunday 5th June. Meet at the station car park at 2.30 pm sharp for a local walk of about 3.5 miles.

The July walk will be on Sunday 3rd July. Meet at West Peckham near the green at 2.30 pm sharp for a local walk of about 3.5 miles.

 All welcome and if interested in some fresh air and exercise just turn up at the start. I If you require further information please ring Mark or Joan on 01622 812087.

WATERINGBURY FLOWER CLUB

Our May meeting  was a workshop  with the title "Cuddle Pot with bottle decoration".  Our guest speaker, Myra Lester   took us through our "hands on" evening with great patience.   Lots of members and guests had a bash at making this unusual arrangement, and what great fun everyone had!

Next month’s meeting is on the 16th June and our demonstrator is Ann Winkworth with her title "Lets Go".   It is also our club competition

entitled "June is bursting out all over".

I hope you will come along and join us, usual plant stall, teas/coffee and

friendly chat.  Jean Schofield

WATERINGBURY – but where?

MAY 2005

VILLAGE DIARY

MAY

 1          Footpath Group walk – Village car park – 2.30pm .

3          Parish Council Meeting – Hall – 7.30pm .

7          Kiddliwinks Spring Fayre – Nettlestead Hall – 2pm .

12        WI – Resolutions followed by Silent Auction – Hall – 2.30pm .

12        Line Dancing – East Peckham Club – 8pm .

18        History Society AGM/Wine & Cheese Party – Red Hill Farm.

19        Flower Club – Nettlestead Hall. 

21        Kenward Trust Annual Plant Sale – Yalding Baptist Church – 10am.

21        Maidstone Symphony Orchestra Concert – Mote Park – 7.30pm .

24        Annual Parish Meeting – Hall – 7.30pm .

VILLAGE PEOPLE  

Birthday congratulations to Phil Rex who recently gained his three score years and ten.  Phil has written the scripts for the village panto for many years and has appeared in many productions.  Keep it up!!  Congratulations too to Phil and Anne Rex on the arrival of their granddaughter India Daisy.

CHILDREN'S SOCIETY BOX COLLECTION

As always, sincere thanks to all those in the village who put their change into a Children's Society Box - this year the total raised was just over £530. 

The Society relies heavily on these regular contributions to continue the excellent work it carries out with the many vulnerable children in our country who daily face harsh challenges and sadness.  At the present time the Society is particularly focusing on those children whose home life is such that they feel compelled to run away and who end up living in dangerous and extremely difficult circumstances, with absolutely no one to turn to for help and guidance.   

The campaign is called Safe and Sound and one of the main aims is to achieve a national network of safe emergency accommodation and local authority services for all young runaways in England .  So, all box holders know that their collections are put to good use.   If you would like to help these children, please phone 812395 and you, too, could fill up a box!    Many thanks    AE

 CHRISTIAN AID WEEK  

Christian Aid Week will be 15 to 21 May. Please support the house to house collections

MAIDSTONE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Our next concert is on Saturday 21 May at 7.30pm at Mote Hall, Maidstone Leisure Centre, Mote Park , Maidstone with conductor Brian Wright

The programme consists of three works:

 ·          Adams – A Short Ride in a Fast Machin

·          Beethoven – Piano Concerto No 3 - Soloist MSO President, John Lill

An absolute must-be-at concert with John Lill playing Beethoven: Richard Strauss’s greatest tone poem, and a breathless contemporary bombshell of a starter from John Adams.  Charity begins at home with this President’s benefit concert to help establish a ‘Special Projects’ Fund for the Orchestra.  Please support us in every way you can.

Tickets £18, £14, and £8, (children or students with a student card £3), available from the Membership Secretaries on 01622 736392, to be collected on the evening of the concert at Mote Hall, or from Mote Hall Box Office 01622 761111 where payment may be made by credit card.  

 
MARATHON REPORT  

I am pleased to say I DID IT!  I managed a time of 4 hours 43 minutes, which really isn’t too bad for a female non-runner of a certain age!!  At least I feel that I did well enough not to have to do it again – ever!!!   The thought of all the support from family, friends and neighbours, especially in those last few days beforehand when I got a bit wobbly, really helped to keep me feeling positive. 

There were many high points in the day. To mention just a few: the weather was glorious, although sadly a little too warm for some; the crowd were fantastic and really seemed to care how everyone was doing, shouting encouragement at anyone who looked tired, and offering sweets and snacks; I was sprinkled with holy water (I am hoping that was what it was!) outside a church by a priest surrounded by his congregation all singing gospel very loudly; a band outside a pub on the route struck up Barry Manilow’s song “Mandy” in response to my name on the front of my vest as I ran past; the excitement of running around the Cutty Sark and over Tower Bridge and the feeling of relief at seeing Buckingham Palace coming closer and knowing I was almost at the end. 

Special mention must go to my lovely cheerleaders on the day, who popped up at various points around the course and gave me a huge boost towards the end when I was flagging and my legs were thinking about going on strike.  Thank you so much everyone for your kind words, encouragement and unstinting generosity. 

I have been truly amazed by the huge number of people who have sponsored me.  (Thanks are due here in no small part to Rostrum!)  When I have managed to redeem all the pledges made, I hope to give around £2000 to Kent Association for the Blind, which is way beyond what I had hoped for, and I know they will be thrilled with.    Mandy Rushton - Maidstone 812878.

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

Question:

Our son has finished his degree and like many students is heavily in debt.  Apart from his student loan, he owes on credit cards, although we suspect he hasn’t been completely honest about the extent of his debts. He has a job and is living at home as he is not earning a great deal. We are very worried about the situation, not least because our daughter is now at university and may also be getting into debt.  We read that many people are going bankrupt these days, and thereby getting rid of debts.  Would this be a good idea for our son?

 Answer:

The number of people going bankrupt in England and Wales is on the increase. A report suggests almost 1 in 4 will be unable to keep up monthly repayments on mortgages and credit cards.  In 2004 there were 126 bankruptcies every day – up from 97/day in 2003, and it is predicted that there will be more than 45,000 bankruptcy orders this year.  73% of bankruptcies are for individuals with over-indebtedness.

 A change in the law in April 2004 meant that bankruptcy would no longer be a means of releasing a former student from the liability for their student loan.  Personal loans taken out from banks and other lenders are not affected, so bankruptcy does release the individual from these debts.

 Although bankruptcy may seem attractive, there are other factors to consider. Your son may wish to buy a home of his own. This will almost certainly mean taking on a mortgage. He will probably also wish to take advantage of credit to buy goods for his new home. Making himself bankrupt could turn out to be unwise in these circumstances.

 What your son needs is good financial advice for his individual circumstances.  Urge your son not to delay seeking help with his finances. A good first step is for him to list and add up all his debts.  Often, people have no idea just how much they owe.    

Malling Citizens Advice Bureau at 9 High Street West Malling provides confidential, free advice on debt problems. Our Advice Line is 01732 845501.

WATERINGBURY CRICKET CLUB

Do you enjoy beer, socialising, standing around in the middle of a field on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon? Then village cricket sounds just the sport for you. Your local cricket club needs more players.  We can accommodate most ages (currently 13-58), and abilities, but if you are of school age it would be helpful to bring along a parent who could either play, score, umpire and could give you a lift to the away matches.

Anyone interested please contact our captain Alan Skilton on 01622 721423, or come over to the cricket ground when we are playing. You would be most welcome and no experience is necessary.  Listed below are the May home fixtures, all games start at 2.30pm : -

Saturday  7 May            Chelsfield Exiles

Sunday    8 May             Kent Ambulance Service

Sunday   15 May           Telston & Mereworth

Saturday 21 May           Inter Club Game

Saturday 28 May           Ightham

Sunday   29 May           Langton

 Trevor Hambly, Press Secretary 

HISTORY SOCIETY MEMBERS AGM  

Wine and Cheese party - 18th May.  Mr. and Mrs. Boorman have kindly agreed to the Society holding its Annual Wine and Cheese Party at Red Hill Farm.    Numbers are limited, but please apply to Janet - 814974, or Pat 814610.  Price  £6.

 LINE DANCING AT EAST PECKHAM

 For a fun night out, try Line Dancing on Thursday 12 May at the Club, the Freehold, East Peckham, 8.30 – 10.30 pm .  Good fun, good exercise, and good company.  (Trainers not suitable footwear). Contact Pauline on 01622 813678.
           

KENWARD’S “ QUEUE GARDENS ”!

The hugely popular Kenward Trust Annual Plant Sale takes place on Saturday 21 May, at Yalding Baptist Church , Vicarage Road , Yalding.    

The sale takes place between 10.00am until 12noon, but if previous years are anything to go by, it’s definitely “while stocks last!”  

Kenward’s Head of Fund-raising, Tony Williams, explains: “The Kenward Trust Annual Plant Sale has really taken off with people travelling for miles to buy the home grown plants from our nursery at Kenward House in Yalding.  It’s almost become like the Harrods’ Sale with people queuing up quite early to secure the best buys. It’s a real village event with very sturdy plants being sold at bargain prices to raise much needed funds for our work with those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse problems.”  

Admission is free and there are light refreshments available as well as a huge array of plants in prime condition, ready for planting.  

Kenward Trust is a registered Christian Charity, with almost four decades’ experience in offering the very best in professionally operated recovery programmes, for people suffering from drug and alcohol misuse and homelessness problems.   

Kenward Trust operates a successful Horticultural Programme at Kenward House in association with Hadlow Horticultural College to offer NVQ courses for those in recovery.  

Make sure that you get to the Kenward Trust Plant Sale early for the “pick of the crop!”

 Fo

TONY WILLIAMS on 01622 814187 or visit www.kenwardtrust.org.uk

 FOOTPATHS GROUP

 A reminder that the May walk will be on Sunday 1st May.  Meet at the village car park at 2.30 pm sharp for a walk of about 3 miles and hopefully see some marvellous carpets of bluebells. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as it may well be muddy. All welcome and if interested in some fresh air and exercise during the Bank Holiday weekend just turn up at the start.

The June walk will be on Sunday 5th June. Meet at the station car park at 2.30 pm sharp for a local walk of about 3.5 miles.    

If you require further information please ring Mark or Joan on 01622 812087.

Kiddliwinks Spring Fayre
Saturday 7th May 2005
2pm - 5pm
Nettlestead Village Hall
Craft stalls, Cakes, Grand Raffle, Kiddies Corner,

Face Painting, Bric a Brac, Jewellery

and much much more!
Please come along and join us!
50p entrance fee
All proceeds to Kiddliwinks Pre-School  

 THINGS YOU SHOULD HAVE LEARNED BY MIDDLE AGE…….  

It isn’t the jeans that make your bottom look big. No evidence supports the notion that life is serious.
It is easier to get forgiveness than permission.
If you look like your passport picture, you could do with the trip.
Bills travel through the post at twice the speed of cheques.
A conscience is what hurts when your other parts feel good.
Eat well, stay fit, die anyway.
No man has ever been shot in the process of doing the dishes.
Middle age is when the broadness of the mind and the narrowness of the waist change places.
 Opportunities always look bigger going than coming.
By the time you can make ends meet, they move the ends.
Junk is something you’ve kept for years and throw away three days before it’s needed.
 Experience is a wonderful thing.  It makes you recognise a mistake when you make 

 Our guest in April was Bunty Stannard with her demonstration entitled "Style Beckons".  This was a very interesting evening; lots of different designs and styles were used to enhance this demonstration. It was also our club competition, with plenty of entries, as many people are getting ready for the County Show in July! The entries included lots of terrific work, a very high standard as usual. 

Don’t forget, if you can join us some time we would love to see you.  Come along as a guest, or come with a member or friend, you don't have to do any flower arranging unless it is a workshop evening, and then you don' t need to unless you want.  Our May meeting is on the 19th and guess what, it is a workshop!  If you want to come along and need details of what to bring, you can ring me, or any of the other members for details.  Jean Schofield, Wateringbury Flower Club.

 WEATHER WATCH – MARCH/APRIL

It seems that over the last two months we have had every type of weather.  The coldest temperature recorded in March was -5°C, (23°F), on the 4^th.  The warmest was 17.5°C, (63.5°F), on the 16^th and 19^th.  Although the water companies are shouting drought, we had the same March rainfall as last year, 46.5cm, (1.83”).  However, we are about 40cm, (1.58”), less than the average for the first three months of the year.

So far April has been notable for the return of ‘April Showers’, which have been absent for the last few years.  However, we still need about 29cm, (just over an inch), of rain before the end of the month to meet the April average of 69cm, (2.7”), to make up the average for the first quarter of the year.

Other parts of the country have been having lots of rain.  However, I do not hear any of the politicians recommending a national grid for water.  But if they keep insisting on more housing in the South East, I really think we are going to need one. 

WWW

 THOUGHT - Time is too short for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity.   (Henry Van Dyke 1852-1933)

 WOMEN'S INSTITUTE

 On Thursday 14th April a member of the Kent Fire Service will talk about

Fire Safety. We welcome all visitors to the Village Hall at 2.30pm .

ART EXHIBITION AND SALE

 to be held at St. Peter and St. Paul Church Teston on

Saturday 30th April,  10am – 5pm

Official opening Saturday 30^th at 11am by Councillor Paul Oldham  

also  Sunday  1^st May  – 11am – 5pm and Bank Holiday Monday

2^nd May – 10am – 5pm - Craft Stalls, Raffle and Light refreshments.

SPELL CHECKER POEM

 Eye halve a spelling chequer

It came with my pea sea

It plainly marques four my revue

Miss steaks eye kin knot sea.

Eye strike a key and   type a word

And weight four it two say

Weather eye am wrong oar write

It shows me strait a weigh.

As soon as a mist ache is maid

It nose bee fore two long

And I can put the error rite

Its rare lea ever wrong.

 Eye have run this poem threw it

I am shore your pleased two no

Its perfect awl the weigh

My chequer tolled me sew.     (Sauce unknown)

 ARE YOU NEW TO THE VILLAGE?

 Are you interested in reading  about some of the old houses in the village,

Or of the people who lived here, or the Fremlin family who established the brewing business of the same name, and who lived in Wateringbury,or what about the history of the lock up in Bow Road?  

If so, you will find this and much more information in  the History Society Publications People and Places Volumes 1 and 2 at the extremely reasonable price of £2.50 each.   The publications have proved very popular in the past, and we are now on our third reprint of Volume 1 and second reprint of Volume 2.  Obtainable from the Post Office or at History Society meetings.

 WATERINGBURY GUIDE & SCOUT HEADQUARTERS

Glebe Meadow - Availability:  

MONDAYS                  9.00a.m. – 1.30p.m.  

TUESDAYS                  9.00a.m. – 4.30p.m.

WEDNESDAYS           9.00a.m. – 5.30p.m.      and 8.00p.m. onwards

 THURSDAYS              9.00a.m. –  6.00p.m.      and 8.15p.m. onwards  

FRIDAYS                     9.00a.m. -  6.30p.m.        

 SATURDAYS and  SUNDAYS: All day and evening

 During school holidays, half terms etc. the HQ is available at all times, and

parking is available for approximately 6 cars.

The HQ is accessible by disabled users and has a suitable WC. The HQ has a well equipped kitchen with hob, oven, refrigerator, microwave, tea urn etc.

 No weddings or large parties can be accommodated as the HQ is in a residential area. No amplified music can be used (small cassette players are permitted).

WEATHER WATCH FEBRUARY/MARCH

Last month I said that it looked as if we had got away without any really bad weather – and then we had the snow.  But fortunately Wateringbury fared a lot better than some other areas and the snow did not lay for long.  February is usually one of the driest months of the year and this one has been no exception.  But the cold spell at the end dragged both the average maximum and minimum down below the 14 year average.  The cold spell crept into March and the coldest I measured was -5°C (+3.5°F) on 4^th March.  The warmest day of February was 13°C (55.4°F) but at the middle of March it reached 17.5°C (61.9°F)                    WWW

 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE  As from 1st April 2005 the Borough Councill will no longer be dealing with highway maintenance.  All highway problems should be directed to the Kent County Council's Highway hotline on 08458 247 800 ( any time day or night)

 SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER?

 We have just returned from a marvellous holiday visiting friends and relatives in Australia and New Zealand, the latter where the sheep continue to outnumber significantly the human population.  We read a wonderful article (reprinted below) in Christchurch’s local newspaper ‘The Press’.  On our train journey we passed through Te Kuiti the defending champion’s home-town which the train guard described as New Zealand’s centre of sheep shearing excellence.            BARRY AND HILARY FISHER

February 14 2005  Shearing crown switched

New Zealand shearing has an heir apparent to its champion shearer after an intense 2005 Otago Shearing and New Zealand Woolhandling Championships in Balclutha on Saturday Night.  Napier shearer John Kirkpatrick and defending champion David Fagan, of Te Kuiti, fought one of the great finals, which had the packed Balclutha War Memorial Hall crowd on its feet.  Organising committee chairman Jim Murdoch said this year’s event was one of the best.

 Fagan, looking to claim his 17^th Otago title, started well but Kirkpatrick was never far behind and the Napier handpiece supremo soon picked another gear.  The last three sheep were shorn so fast both men later said they could not remember the last few minutes of the tussle.  Kirkpatrick finished just 0.15 of a second ahead of Fagan but the final result was decided on time faults and penalty points.  In the end, Kirkpatrick was well clear of Dean Ball, who finished second, while Fagan had to settle for third place.  “I deserved to finish fifth the way I sheared that final,” Fagan said after the presentations.  He was gracious in defeat and had plenty of positive words for Kirkpatrick, who he said was a tough competitor and deserved his title.    

LOGS FOR BURNING  

OAK LOGS will warm you well if they’re old and dry; LARCH LOGS of pinewood smell, but the sparks will fly.  BEECH LOGS for Christmas time; YEW LOGS heat well; ‘SCOTCH’ LOGS it is a crime for anyone to sell.  BIRCH LOGS will burn too fast, CHESTNUT scarce at all.  HAWTHORNE LOGS are good to last if cut in the Fall.  HOLLY LOGS will burn like wax, you should burn them green. ELM LOGS just smoulder like flax – no flame to be seen; PEAR LOGS and APPLE LOGS, they will scent your room; CHERRY LOGS across the dogs smell like flowers in bloom. The LOGS, all smooth and grey, burn them green or old; Buy up all that come your way – they’re worth their weight in gold!

PARISH COUNCIL APRIL MEETING

Community Police Officer Graham Ford told the council that the number of parishes he is now responsible for has dropped from 14 to 6 which will obviously give him much more time to spend patrolling in the village.  Between 1 and 31 March there were 10 reported crimes in Wateringbury.  The Council were pleased to learn that there will be an increased police presence in the village.

 A member of the Village Hall Trustees will attend the May council meeting and give an update of progress to date.  The hall is scheduled for closure in May and demolition prior to rebuilding.  Plans for the new hall are on display in the existing building.

A site meeting has been arranged for councillors to walk the Love Lane Allotments and discuss the present conditions at the site.  (16 April).  

Borough Councillor Richard Brown will be arranging a site meeting at the village lock up with David Duce the Listed Buildings Officer of Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council to discuss the work needed.  The lock up is a listed building on Bow Road close to the entrance to the village car park.

The Council’s comments on Planning Applications received can be viewed at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Development Control Kings HIll 

Variation of condition 5 of consent ref: TM99/866/FL (replacement Scout Hall) to allow up to 12 sleepovers per year  & additional information submitted clarifying other community groups who intend to use the Scout Hall for a period of 2 years - Scout Hall Glebe Meadow

Listed Building application: enclosed porch to replace open porch and relocation of 2 no. windows. -  Red Hill Farm 339 Red Hill 

Erection of internally illuminated facia sign, part illuminated canopy sign and two illuminated freestanding post signs. -  Premier Travel Inn 103 Tonbridge Road

Removal of single Cupressus to front - Camden House 218 Tonbridge Road

Remove 3 no.  Bramley Apple Trees - 6 Upper Mill 

Pruning of ornamental cherry tree in front garden - Beckley Cottage 16 Mill Lane

A resident had written to the council suggesting a pedestrian crossing on the Tonbridge Road near Upper Mill to help children crossing to catch the bus for school.  The council agreed to look into this although it was felt that the position was too close to the bend in the road.  Borough Councillor Richard Brown was asked to establish the criteria required for a crossing.

The next meetings of the council to be held in the village hall will be

3 May              Council Meeting – 7.30pm

24 May                       Annual Parish Meeting - 7.30pm

APRIL 2005

VILLAGE DIARY

 3^rd April             Footpath Walk  

4 April              The Pension Service/Kent Benefits Partnership Village Hall 10.00am  - noon

14^th April            W.I. – Talk on Fire Safety – 2.30 Village Hall

 20^th April            History Society – History of Weather Forecasting 7.40 – Village Hall  

21^st April            Wateringbury Flower Club – Nettlestead Village Hall

 25^th April            Wateringbury Sports and Recreational Association AGM – 8 pm Sports Pavilion

 27^th April            History Society Tour of Pear Orchard

 30^th April and     Annual Plant Sale

2^nd May

1^st May              Footpath Walk

HISTORY SOCIETY - Forthcoming events

 27^th April – A walk around the Apple and Pear Orchard  meeting at 2.45 for a 3.00 pm start.  Meet  at 76 Bow Road.  Admission free, but we would like a rough idea of numbers,  so please add your name to the list at next History Society meeting, or ring Norma Betts on 812914

 18^th May – Wine and Cheese Party - Members only

Tickets £6 per person - book at History Society meeting.  

20^th July – Visit by Coach to Dover Castle.  Open to non History Society members.   Price - £15 per person (£10 to English Heritage Members)

Book at History Society meeting or ring Janet Coltham on 814974  

10^th September – The Society will be conducting a walk around the Village, pointing out places and houses of interest, as part of the Heritage Weekend

 PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

The Council Chairman reported that the Allotments were looking much better and that there had been a good take up of plots recently from those interested in growing their own vegetables and fruit.  He hoped this would continue as there were still spaces available  at both Love Lane and Old Road sites.

 The severe traffic congestion problems caused by the closure of Seven Mile Lane for hedge trimming and drainage clearance was discussed.  The chairman is seeking assurances by the authorities that any such closures in the future would be notified to the Parish Council so that details could be published in the village magazine to forewarn residents of likely holdups.  

Nettlestead Parish Council had agreed to donate towards the cost of a pedestrian crossing at the school.  Negotiations are continuing with Nettlestead Parish Council about the proposal for a 20mph speed limit in the area of the school.  

Speed checks will continue in the village and surrounding areas.  A number of vehicles had been caught exceeding the speed limits in recent checks.  

It was reported that the village hall trustees had held lots of planning meetings to finalise arrangements. The final design had been agreed and a planning application to reflect the concluding changes would be submitted shortly.   The project surveys were now complete.  Discussions were taking place with the tree officer and the owners of adjoining properties about the trees on the site.   During the course of the  construction of the hall there is likely to be a temporary loss of some parking spaces in the village car park to accommodate storage and facilities for the builders; negotiations are underway with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council who own the car park.

The Sports and Recreation Association are still working on plans to improve the parking at the Playing Fields.  The lack of access from the station car park continues to cause problems.  

At the public open forum the following points were brought to the attention of the council –

* Problems with footpath 498 (which runs from Tonbridge Road along the side of the grounds of Wateringbury Place ), the lack of a stile or post to stop the  path being used by horseriders and problems with mowing of the path.  * Surrounding villages (including East Peckham and Hadlow) seem to be able to have speed camera signs erected why can’t Wateringbury?

 * When the Tonbridge Road was resurfaced 2½ years ago the path from Love Lane to the Traffic lights was not resurfaced as the contractors ran out of time, this still has not been done and is in a poor state.  

The Parish Council’s comments on the following planning applications may be viewed at the Tonbridge & Malling Offices, Kings Hill – Proposed new boundary fence – 256 Phoenix Drive, Prune one silver birch and remove one ash tree – 27 Mill Lane, Two storey side extension, 123 Bow Road, Remove bough from one chestnut tree and reduce one bay by one third, 45 Old Road, variation of condition 6 to enable use of Scout Headquarters, Glebe Meadow by other community groups for a maximum period of 2 years (while new village hall is built).  Reconstruction of converted redundant farm building that was destroyed by fire - Unit 2, Hermitage Farm, Danns Lane .    

KCC councillor Trudy Dean reported to the meeting on many items of local interest including the NHS plans to move full maternity services from Maidstone District Hospital to Pembury since this was to be the site of the special care baby unit.  An additional 220 car parking spaces had been agreed for West Malling Station.  These will be accessed directly off the by pass and should be available in 2 years’ time.  KCC estimates that it is still owed £14m by the Government to meet the costs of services provided for asylum seekers.  Mrs Dean was concerned about the cost implications to local schools of implementing the provision of staff to cover teachers who are now entitled to 10% non class contact time.  There was a shortfall between the amount given by the government to fund this scheme and the actual costs of providing quality cover.  Government proposals for provision of more homes in the south east had implications for the area.  Kent at present builds 62% of its new homes on brown field sites (sites which have previously been developed for one reason or another) exceeding national targets by 2%.  However it estimates that it will run out of such sites in 10 years.  At present  only  20% of  new homes in the county are “affordable” compared to the government target of 40%.  Under recent proposals green belt land will continue to be protected but other important sites would not be given such protection.  The South East England Regional Assembly wishes to gauge public opinion about planning matters.  Please respond to the questionnaire which has been circulated to each household or write directly to the assembly and send a copy to Strategy Division at KCC, Maidstone.  

The next meeting of the Parish Council will be on Tuesday 8 April at 7.30pm in the village hall.

 THANK YOU

 West Malling RNLI wish to thank everyone for their contributions during the recent  house to house collections which raised £224.19 in Wateringbury and £236.99 in Nettlestead for this worthy charity.

 Charlotte Cashia of Phoenix Drive and Sarah Hickey of Leney Road thank their neighbours for their generous support of Comic Relief.  £75.01 was raised for the charity from the sale of craft items and sweeties many of which were made by the girls.  

Quiz Night – a very big thank you  to everyone who came along to my Quiz night to raise funds on behalf of Demelza House Children’s Hospice.  Financially, it was a very successful night, raising £832 and I hope that you all enjoyed yourselves too.            Christine Thomas  

MAKE POVERTY HISTORY

Sandy Millar, the man behind Comic Relief and the writer of Four Weddings and a Funeral, Mr Bean, Blackadder, Bridget Jones’s Diary and The Vicar of Dibley has taken a year off from his script writing career to lead the campaign against third world poverty by wiping out third-world debt.  The campaign  has the support of more than 200 charities.    With Britain hosting the G8 summit of world leaders at Gleneagles in July 05 the campaign is hoping for a massive body of popular support across the UK and around the world which will compel politicians to act.   

If you would like to help you can visit the web site makepovertyhistory.org to immediately enrol in the organisation’s e-mail campaign.  You can write to our local MP Sir John Stanley at the House of Commons, Westminster to express your views.  If any MP gets 30 letters on a subject he has to raise it with the minister concerned and the minister  has to write back.  And when the election comes don’t forget to ask the candidates for their views on this subject.

HISTORY SOCIETY  

Our speaker, Commander Bruce Nicolls, entertained his audience most “admirably” with his talk about ‘The Flags of Trafalgar’, 2005 being the 200th anniversary since the Battle of Trafalgar took place on 21st October 1805 . Cdr. Nicolls illustrated his talk with slides (some of them magnificent paintings of battle scenes), and outlined the events leading up to and during the battle and the part played by naval flags in keeping the fleet informed of action planned.  

 In case we were unaware of the location of Trafalgar (some  miles south of Cadiz ) we were shown a map of the battle area. 27 British ships, under the command of Lord Nelson, who only arrived in September, and 33 Spanish/French ships took part in the battle, and communication by flag signals (over 1000 in vocabulary) between the ships was extremely important and had to be recorded in log books. Cdr. Nicolls outlined the preparations made by Lord Nelson for the battle and explained the story behind  Nelson’s most famous signals - “England expects that every man will do his duty” and “Engage the enemy more closely” and their significance. Flags representing countries were much larger than our present day ‘Union Jack’, one from a captured Spanish ship was 45 ft high, and were often unidentifiable from the front, so the practice of flying a smaller flag at the back of the ship was adopted, known as the ‘Jack’.  

Unfortunately, as we know Lord Nelson’s last command was the Battle of Trafalgar. His last voyage back to England for a very grand funeral and burial at St. Paul ’s Cathedral, was in a barrel of brandy!  

The Chairman when thanking Cdr. Nicolls for his talk, said Trafalgar Day would mean much more to her this year, a feeling almost certainly shared by everyone present.  

On 20th April our speaker will be Hugh Sansom talking about The History of Weather Forecasting. Tea and coffee available on arrival, 7.40 for 8.00 pm . Janet Hall (817833)

 FOOTPATH WALK  

The April walk will be on Sunday 3^rd April in the Shipbourne area.  Meet on the common opposite Shipbourne Church at 2.30 pm sharp for a walk of about 3 – 4 miles depending on the weather.   

The May walk will be on Sunday 1st May. Meet at the village car park at 2.30 pm sharp for a walk of about 3 miles and hopefully see some marvellous carpets of bluebells. Sturdy footwear is recommended as it may well be muddy. All welcome and if interested in some fresh air and exercise during the Bank Holiday weekend just turn up at the start. If you require further information please ring Mark or Joan on 01622 812087.

 My Marathon Training   is going pretty well and I am running about 35 – 40 miles a week.  I have now cracked 20 miles in my weekly long run, so I am well on the way, and the weather should be improving from now on.  I feel a mixture of nervous anticipation, excitement and disbelief.  It has really taken over my life and to be honest it will be a relief when it is over.  

I have been surprised and delighted by the sponsorship being pledged (for Kent Association for the Blind) and by the encouragement friends, neighbours and acquaintances have offered me having read February’s Rostrum.  

Thank you so much everyone.  Please continue the support, offer to sponsor me if you have not already done so, and wish me luck for April 17!   Mandy Rushton,      Warden Mill Close           812878                 

TODDLERS PRAISE  

Toddlers bring your mum, dad or carer and have fun every Monday (except Bank Holidays) at the Scout Guide H Q Glebe Meadow Wateringbury. 2pm – 3pm.  Enjoy, songs with actions and marching, musical instruments, puppets, story time, prayer and refreshments.  A warm welcome awaits you from Rev Jim Brown and his helpers. For further information please contact Edna Craig on 01622 812992  

WATERINGBURY FLOWER CLUB

Meeting 17^th March – Guest Demonstrator Dorothy Blye from Aldershot , National Demonstrator  

Dorothy stepped in at the last minute, as our booked National Demonstrator had taken ill. Her title was a Flowery View of Life.  There was a very good turn out of members and visitors, and it really was a very funny evening.  Members were delighted with their arrangements that they won in the raffle.  

Our next meeting is on Thursday, 21^st April, and our guest is Bunty Stannard.  We also have our club members competition, the title is Simplicity.  We are hoping for an increase in members taking part in the competitions, as the County Show is coming up in July, and Wateringbury always have a very high presence in the organising of the Flower marquee, and the competitions, so we are on the look out for talent.  Please do come and join us for an evening of lighthearted fun and flowers, we always have a plant stall for all the gardeners amongst us.  Until April  --  Jean Schofield for Wateringbury Flower Club  

MARCH 2005

VILLAGE DIARY  

MARCH

1    Parish Council Meeting - Village Hall - 7.30pm

3          Footpath Group walk – Shipbourne - 2.30pm

4          Applause Theatre – East Peckham Vill Hall – 8pm                       

10          WI Talk – Could Do Better by Anne Rex – Village Hall - 2.30pm

10   Fair Trade Show – Rochester Cathedral – 11am to 5pm  

16   Hist Soc Talk - The Flags at Trafalgar  – Village Hall - 7.45pm

17     Flower Club – Nettlestead Hall – 7pm

18         Maidstone Orchestral Society Concert – Mote Hall – 7.30pm          

APRIL

4   The Pension Service & Kent Benefits Partnership Advice Session,

     Village Hall from 10.00am-12.00noon 

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE  

Our next meeting is on Thursday 10th March when Anne Rex will give a talk entitled 'Could do Better'.  We welcome all visitors who join us in the village hall at 2.30pm .  

FAIR TRADE ROAD SHOW

Rochester Catherdral – Thursday 10 March  - 11am to 5pm .  

WATERINGBURY & SURROUNDING VILLAGES BRIDGE CLUB  

From 1 March, because of the possible start to building works for the new village hall, we are going to meet at the Wateringbury Hotel. To remind you, we meet every Thursday at 7.30 pm. to play friendly bridge. You do not need to bring a partner and players of all levels are welcome.  New members would be very welcome. Phone Pat for more information, 01622 813622.

FEBRUARY PARISH COUNCIL MEETING  

Councillor Hoiles reported that the Sports and Recreation Association were working to improve the parking around the sports pavilion.  The Committee and Mr & Mrs Stevens, who own adjoining land, were concerned about the speed of vehicles in the area and are working together to try to resolve the problems.  The problem of vehicles speeding along the track from Fields Lane was also discussed.  The council will shortly be taking steps to make the track safer for all users. 

Several complaints had been received about the dangers caused by a horse-box which had been parked in Cobbs Close for some time.  The police were trying to trace the owners.  

Borough Councillor Richard Brown reported to the council about matters of local interest.  These included that the Kent Highways Partnership with dealt with road repairs has been dissolved and the responsibility for road repairs had been returned to the KCC.  The rise in Tonbridge and Malling Council tax will be less than 5%; the settlement from central government had only increased by 2.5%.  The cost of living salary increase for borough council officers will be 3% based on the retail price index rise.  The repairs to the village lock-up in Bow Road were discussed and Councillor Brown suggested a site meeting might be beneficial.

 Two new residents had rented allotments. The Chairman, a keen allotment holder himself, reminded the meeting that there are still some vacant plots and encouraged people to consider taking on a plot. 

Plans for the rebuilding of the village hall were progressing well and it was hoped that work would be started in early summer.  Existing hall users will be contacted shortly with details of alternative premises which will be available whilst building works are in progress.  

Several parish councillors had attended the funeral of Tom Fraser, our village butcher.  The chairman offered the council’s condolences to his widow and family.

The Chairman thanked Councillor Michael Cayzer for his efforts in lobbying to keep Accident and Emergency Services at Maidstone Hospital .  Mr Cayzer said he was disappointed that more residents had not taken the opportunity to let the Health Authority know their views on the proposed changes which would seriously reduce the services provided by Maidstone District Hospital .  

The parish council’s comments on the following planning applications can be viewed at Tonbridge & Malling Council Offices, Kings Hill.  Installation of 15m monopole with 6 panel antennae, 3 outdoor equipment cabinets and one 300mm dish antenna on Land at Home Farm; dormer windows and external improvements to provide level access to buildings and new car parking at Old Road; removal of 18 Leylandii Cypress at Canon House, Canon Lane; fully glazed extension with slate roof at 1 Vine Court, Tonbridge Road; retrospective listed building application for relocation of external flue on rear elevation at 59 Bow Road; variations on conditions 2 and 6 outline application of 92,900 sq metres of B1 business floor space, residential development, public open space, sports, leisure and recreation facilities and associated infrastructure at Kings Hill and adjoining land at Heath Farm East Malling to enable the submission of details and implementations of the development to be undertaken in phases.  

The next meeting of the parish council will be on Tuesday 1 March at 7.30pm . in the village hall.  

MAIDSTONE ORCHESTRAL SOCIETY  

The orchestra under its conductor Brian Wright will give a concert on Saturday 19 March at 7.30 in Mote Hall Maidstone.  Tickets cost £18, £14 and £8, seats for children or students with a student card £3 and are available from 01622 736392 or from the box office at Mote Hall.

The programme consists of three works Neilsen – Pan and Syrinx, Elgar -Violin Concerto and Ravel – Pictures at an Exhibition.  Guest Soloist is Chloe Hanslip one of the world’s foremost young violinists.

FOOTPATHS GROUP  

 HISTORY SOCIETY TOUR OF PEAR ORCHARD

The History Society has organised a tour of the organic orchard in the village to take place on Wednesday 27th April.  The tour will start from outside "The Coach House" 76 Bow Road , (that's down the bridle path, last house on the left from Bow Road itself).  Meet at 2.45 pm for 3.0 pm start, the tour takes  approximately 90 minutes.  There is no charge for this tour, but we would like to have a rough idea of numbers, so if interested, please add your name to the list at the next History Society meeting on 16th March.                                                                                     Norma Betts

 WATERINGBURY WEATHER WATCH  

January was remarkably warm and dry for the time of year. We only had 25.7mm of rain (1.01”) as compared with an average of 59.7mm (2.35”) and the average temperatures were 3.29C (37.92F) minimum and 8.03C (46.45F) maximum. These temperatures were about 1.5C above the average. The first half of the month was quite windy and I only recorded frost on 9 nights.  

So far February has been generally damp and dull with a few sunny intervals, but the rainfall has not yet reached that of last year, although it is usually one of the dryer months of the year. The temperatures have been about average in spite of the bitter winds we have experienced lately. But with a few days of the month to go still no sign of any appreciable falls of snow. There is, of course, still time before the winter finally gives way to spring, but as I read the signs it looks to me as though we have got away with another mild winter.                                                                 W W W

 CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU PAGE

 I'm in my mid 40s and as the years have passed I've realised that I know very little about my family history. I've always wanted to know more but have never got around to doing anything about it. So now I've decided to do some research, but I don't know quite where to start. Can you give me any advice please.  

Answer

Family history research has become increasingly popular in recent years. There was even a series of programmes on BBC1 last year when celebrities traced their family history.  The chances are that you already know a bit about your family. In order to add to your knowledge you should ask as many questions as you can of other family members. Your parents, and even your grandparents (if they are still alive) should be able to tell you quite a lot to get you started. Talk to aunts/uncles too - in fact anybody who is related to you. You may find that they really enjoy talking about their childhood and the things they remember from the past. Make sure that you keep a careful record of what they tell you - you may even want to ask them if you can record the conversations that you have so you don't forget anything! You may be surprised just how much you can discover in this way, and the good news is that it won't cost you anything!

 Once you have got some information about your ancestors then you may want to do some further research. The Public Records Office contains information about births, marriages and deaths in this country dating back to 1837. You can search the registers without charge, but in order to see copies of the actual certificates you will have to pay. A marriage certificate will give information about the couple getting married, but also gives the names of the respective fathers.  

In addition to searching the BMD registers, you can also have access to Census records. A census is taken every 10 years, and this is made public after 100 years have passed. The 1901 census is available online, and you can search for names without charge. However, you have to pay to view the actual records. Previous census records are not available online, but they can be searched without charge. The website address for the 1901 census is www.1901census.nationalarchives.gov.uk

There are links from this site to other useful sites. Some are free to use, and others incur a charge. For example, it is possible (for a fee) to look at the BMD indexes online.  Most people who are interested in genealogy are pleased to talk to other people who are less experienced, and to give them tips. You may even find a local family history society.  Whatever you do, make sure that you keep careful records so that you don't get in a muddle. Research tends to become more difficult the further back you go, and you should always be aware that in the course of your research you might uncover a "skeleton in the cupboard"

For further advice on this or any other subject, please contact Malling CAB (or your local bureau) Details are in the phone book.

VILLAGE PEOPLE  

RALPH MORGAN - 22 October 1925 to 12 January 2005

Ralph, who has died aged 79, was born in West Malling. His parents moved to Shepherds Cottage, Pizienwell in 1926 where Ralph lived until 1954.  As a boy he attended Wateringbury School and was in the choir at St John the Baptist Church .  During the war he joined the Parachute Regiment and saw action in Egypt , Holland and elsewhere.  On being demobbed he worked for Charles Benfield, the local builder and helped to build the houses which occupy Glebe Meadow. It was whilst on this job he was to spy his future wife, the young Betty Watson, walking past with her “charges” in a pram (she worked as a nanny).  

They married in 1952 at St Johns and subsequently moved to Teston Corner, North Pole / Barming Road, where Ralph had taken the job of farm foreman for Donald Mitchell, (later Payne Farms), looking after a substantial acreage of fruit.  On retirement, Ralph and Betty moved to Barming where they were to enjoy a further 12 years together.  In 2002 they celebrated their Golden Wedding anniversary with a very special service in the church with family and friends.  Ralph leaves wife Betty, sons David and Nigel, their wives Viv and Sharon and grandson Paul.  

THANK YOU

Tom Fraser  -  Our heartfelt thanks go to all the kind villagers who attended Tom’s funeral service.  What warmth we felt to see the church so full.  Tom never severed his ties with Wateringbury, playing snooker at the club and delighting in meeting somebody from the village when in Maidstone .  Thank you to you all.                                                                      Margaret and family.  

Don Johnson  -  I would like to say thank you to all our kind neighbours who sent cards and flowers when my husband Don passed away on 26^th December 2004 .  We were very touched by all your kind thoughts at such a sad time.  On behalf of my son Sean and myself, many thanks to you all and special thanks to Rev Jim Brown                                            Margery Johnson.

 Andrew Tate  -  Vera and Jack Tate thank all our friends and neighbours for their cards, letters of sympathy and the support given to us following the tragic death of our  son Andrew.  With special thanks for the help and support we received from the Reverend Jim Brown and Mrs. Edna Craig.  

APPLAUSE AT EAST PECKHAM VILLAGE HALL

Friday 4 March 8:00 p.m.   Pretty Good Girls Dance Theatre present  The Great Little Tilley

An evening of decadence, hilarity and stunning dance theatre!  Songs and stories from the life of Vesta Tilley, a famous male impersonator of the Victorian theatre with top-hat and tailcoat, bawdy jokes, dainty steps and cheeky songs.  Tickets – Adults £6, Children £3

 Sunday 17 April 3:30 p.m.   Chris Newman & Maire Ni Chathasaigh

A breathtaking blend of traditional Irish and Scottish music, hot jazz, bluegrass and baroque, though rooted in the Irish tradition. The most influential Irish harpist today, Maire Ni Chathasaigh was named Traditional Musician of the Year 2001. In partnership with English guitar wizard Chris Newman she tours all over the world. Their breathtaking blend of Irish and Scottish music, swing jazz, baroque & bluegrass, coupled with Maire’s ‘warm and expressive voice’ and Chris’ ‘subversively witty introductions’ ensure a memorable afternoon for all. Tea and chocolate biscuits will be served during the interval.  Tickets – Adults £6, Children £3

 Applause is part of the National Rural Touring Scheme which aims to bring the Arts to rural communities. At present, it is West Kent 's Rural Touring Scheme but in the not too distant future it will extend into north Kent .  Applause is a company limited by guarantee, funded by local authority grants and backers such as South East Arts. This public money is used to subsidise professional theatrical and musical events. Future plans include art exhibitions and films. More information can be found at www.applause.org.uk.

Tickets for these events can be ordered from Gwynneth Poole on 01622 872163.

 LEST WE FORGET – WATERINGBURY IN WORLD WAR II 

 It is hoped to revise and reprint Lest We Forget to coincide with the 60^th anniversary of the end of WW2.  Suggestions, photographs and memories will be very welcome.  Please phone 01622 812023.  Thank You.                                                                                                                                                Christine Byron.

MAYOR’S CONCERT TO HELP KENWARD TRUST  

The Mayor and Mayoress of Tonbridge & Malling, Cllr. Peter and Mrs. Evelyn Homewood, are hosting a Night of Brass Band Music at the E M Forster Theatre, Tonbridge School , to help boost the Kenward Trust New Building Fund.  The big event takes place on Saturday 2^nd April at 7.30pm . Tickets, priced at £12.00 (plus 50p p&p) are available from the Box Office on 01732 361908.  Seating is limited and early reservation is recommended. 

For more information on the Kenward Trust or to arrange a talk on their work, contact TONY WILLIAMS on 01622  814187. For details on how to get help for someone suffering from alcohol or other drug addiction, visit www.kenwardtrust.org.uk.  

WATERINGBURY FLOWER CLUB

 Our February meeting was the AGM, which is also a social evening with everyone getting to know each other after the business is over with.  We reflected on 2004, our Coral Anniversary Year, and the other achievements by the club and members; we voted in new and current committee members and then enjoyed a lovely buffet supplied by the committee. 

March the 17th is our next meeting, with our guest speaker Mrs Edna Johnson, giving a talk ‘Beauty depends on Nature’.  Edna is a National demonstrator and it promises to be a great evening.  Please come and join us; doors open at 7 sharp for 7.45 start. Plant stall, refreshments and friendly company.  We look forward to seeing you.  Jean Schofield for WFC.  

FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT, 1-13 MARCH 2005

Now that the supermarkets are stocking Fairtrade items it is easier than ever to buy Fairtrade goods. 

The Fairtrade  mark

þ      Guarantees Farmers’ organisations a fair and stable price for their products

þ      Guarantees extra income for farmers and plantation workers to improve their lives and their communities

þ      Guarantees greater respect for the environment

þ      Guarantees a closer link between consumers and producers

So remember when you buy Fairtrade you are not only enjoying reasonably priced, quality products you are also helping to provide schooling and healthcare for many of the world’s poorest agricultural workers and their families.

HISTORY SOCIETY

The speaker, at our well-attended February meeting, was Gordon Bentley, who gave an extremely interesting and humorous talk on the history of Pub Signs, illustrated with many slides. 

Gordon explained that the Romans hung a bunch of vine leaves outside their public houses to identify them.  When they came to Britain they replaced this with a bush on a post, due to the shortage of vine leaves.  After Roman times, the practice of identifying public houses continued, although the bush was often replaced by a log or agricultural implement, until Richard II ordered that all public houses must display a sign. His coat of arms was a white hart, and this explains why so many pubs have this name. 

One illustration was of a painting depicting a very costly and magnificent pub sign straddling a road, which unfortunately has not survived. It had elaborate carvings and had cost £1000.00 when erected in the 17^th century.  This type of pub sign is known as a gallows sign, as they were often used for public executions. Another illustration was of a pub sign for the ‘Dukes Head’; a two sided sign showing Duke Ellington on one side and John Wayne on the other! 

Churches often brewed ale, until the practice was outlawed by Oliver Cromwell. This explains the link between public houses and the church. Public houses were often sited near a church to accommodate the stone masons who built them.  In the past, signs were made from hand-painted wood, some done by artists such as Turner and Hogarth, in payment for ale.

Gordon brought humour to his talk with many short rhymes and possible reasons behind some of the signs shown to us - ‘Honest Miller’ (A man’s face with no ears - the penalty for stealing grain was at one time ear amputation!).  At the end of his talk Gordon mentioned that Whitbread had made miniature signs in metal and cardboard in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s. These were now very collectable, and the miniature sign of the ‘Lord Cornwallis’ was particularly sought after.

On 16 March, our speaker will be Commander Bruce Nichols on The Flags at Trafalgar.  Tea and coffee available on arrival - 7.40 for 8.00 pm .                                                                                                                                        Janet Hall (817833)

 VILLAGE HALL USERS

 The village hall trustees have written to all regular users of the hall but have asked Rostrum to print brief details of their plans to help all who may be planning an event in the coming year.

 If we can get all the funding in place, we would like to start work on site from mid-May this year, when the present building will be taken out of use. The new building should be ready by early 2006.  Though we are not yet absolutely certain of the start date, we have negotiated some alternative venues, which your group may wish to consider during the building works. For evening meetings (after 6.00pm ), the head teacher and governors of Wateringbury School have kindly agreed that meetings may be held there (subject to availability).  If you wish to use this facility, you would need to book this by contacting  Dennis Stones on 01622 813674. 

 For daytime sessions and some evenings, the leaders of the Wateringbury Scouts and Guide groups have kindly indicated that their hall may be used at the times indicated on the enclosure with Rostrum. They have applied for the necessary change of use planning permission from Tonbridge and Malling council to enable public access during the period of the building work and they are optimistic that this will be granted. They have agreed that letting rates would be at the same hourly rate as the village hall.  Bookings for the Scout & Guide building are dealt with by Mrs M Neate on 01622  813564.  

Although the start date is still uncertain, we want to ensure that your group can continue with its meetings as usual. We will keep you updated as we move forward.  Inevitably building works will be disruptive for the village but we are trying to keep this to a minimum. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or suggestions. 

Meanwhile, we really do need your help to get the remaining funding in place.  If you can help in any way, we really would appreciate it.  Many thanks for all your support.                                                              Dennis Stones

FEBRUARY 2005

Welcome to the first Rostrum for 2005.  We welcome advertisers old and new and thank them for their support of the magazine which allows us to be self-funding and to distribute the magazine to each home in the village.  Please try and support our advertisers and don’t forget to let them know you saw their advert in Rostrum.

 VILLAGE DIARY

 FEBRUARY

1    Parish Council Meeting – Hall – 7.30pm

3 & 4    Aladdin – Wateringbury Players Pantomime – Nettlestead Hall

6    Footpaths Group Walk – meet Bucks Head, Godden Green – 2.15pm

10   Intro to Chi Kung & Tai Chi Chuan – WI – Hall – 2.30pm

16   Gordon Bentley - History of Pub Signs History Soc – Hall 7.45pm

25   Cricket Club Quiz – School

26   Jumble Sale –  Village Hall – 2pm

MARCH

1         Parish Council Meeting – Hall – 7.30pm

5    Quiz Night for Demelza  Children’s Hospice – School – 7pm

6    Footpaths Group Walk – meet Mereworth School lay-by – 2.15pm

APRIL

4    Pensions Service & Benefits Partnership Advice Session – Hall - 10-noon

WATERINGBURY PLAYERS   ALADDIN  

Our Panto this season is Aladdin and performances will be in Nettlestead Village Hall on Friday evening, February 4^th and Saturday matinee and evening, February 5^th.   Doors will open at 7.30 for the evening shows and 2.00pm for Saturday Matinee with curtain up at 8.00 and 2.30 respectively.

If you hurry, some tickets might still be available for Friday night or Saturday matinee at the usual outlets  - Wateringbury Post Office and the Handy Stores.

FOOT CARE CLINIC FOR THE 60+

The next clinic will be held on Tuesday 1 March in Wateringbury Village Hall between 1.15-3pm .  Our apologies for the lack of service in February.  Please ring Ros 01622 813032 if you require further information.

WOMEN'S INSTITUTE

 Our meeting is on the 10th February when Mrs Fran Bennett will give an introduction to Chi Kung & Tai Chi Chuan.  We welcome all visitors to join us in the village hall at 2.30pm  

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION POPPY APPEAL 2004

 A  remarkable response by you amounting to £1591!  And that was only what you donated within the village.  On behalf of the beneficiaries, thank you.

 There was another fine effort by the intrepid poppiers of the 1^st Wateringbury Foot, possibly a unique unit in needing no training; they are, no doubt, sufficiently inspired by their motto  “SEMPER FINANCIAL” 

Roy Sedgebeer

PARISH COUNCIL REPORT

At the opening of the January meeting 1 minute silence was kept in memory of the Tsunami victims,  their families and friends, especially those in the parish directly affected.

The council’s comments on the December and January planning applications can be read at the Tonbridge and Malling Council offices at Kings Hill.  Listed Building application – alterations to elevations and internal layout and removal of outbuildings at 238 Tonbridge Road;  insertion of gas supply with flue to side wall at 3 Claremont House, Tonbridge Road; removal of existing porch and build a larger porch at 476 Red Hill; Reconstruction of converted redundant farm building destroyed by fire at Unit 2, Hermitage Farm, Danns Lane;  First floor extension and part conversion of garage to habitable room at 15 The Brucks; trim one sycamore, reduce height of leylandii and trim one yew at Mill Lane House, Mill Lane; listed building application enclose porch to replace open porch and relocation of 2 windows at Red Hill Farm;   insertion of 3 roof lights to south elevation at The Coach House, Red Hill and Conversion of garage to habitable room at 5 Rivers Close.

The council passed a resolution to make an application through the Kent Association of Parish Councils for permission to take a loan, up to a maximum of £200,000, from the Public Works Loan Board.  This will be valid for 6 months and will only be taken up if the village hall trustees anticipated funding  sources should fall short of the amount needed to build the new hall. 

The new revised plans were available and were explained to the council and the public by Barry Cann  from the partnership which is to act as architects and quantity surveyors  for the project.   Test borehole on the site had been undertaken to establish  any special conditions.  It was hoped that  the project would take 9 months to complete from the  demolition of existing hall.  The hall trustees are negotiating alternative venues for the regular users of the hall.   Councillor Mo Neat informed the meeting that the Scout and Guide HQ had applied for permissions necessary to allow for additional usage.  The school were also willing for its hall to be used from time to time.

KCC Councillor Trudie Dean reported to the council on matters of local interest including the funding for the planned zebra crossing  near the school in Bow Road , the proposed new house building figures and the Government’s Zone of Influence which have implications locally.  The results of a  recent T & M Air Quality survey showed that there was a problem in the village on the Tonbridge Road by the Traffic lights.  Mrs Dean explained that the T & M Council will need to prepare an action plan to ensure the air quality is improved.   To this end Mrs Dean said she had written to T & M and KCC recommending that the second phase of the lorry ban  in the village be implemented  on the A26. 

The necessary signage to re-direct these vehicles would be a cost effective way to improve air quality standards.  The Parish Council agreed with this suggestion and will also write to the authorities.  It was felt that the present phasing of the traffic lights was causing congestion and the parish council will also recommend changes are made.

 Local resident Adam Whitehouse told the council of the work of the  Medway Group Project of the South Eastern and Chatham Railway Preservation Society who are working to preserve buildings on the Medway Valley Line.  At the moment the focus is on retaining East Farleigh Station for public use.   The signal box at Wateringbury station, a listed building, was also being monitored.  

The Chairman and Clerk of the Council had met with the police for about 2 hours and had discussed at some length matters of local concern including the problems at the allotments,   assaults on allotment holders, thefts, problems with local youths and problems with speeding traffic in the village in particular Bow Road and Red Hill.  The police confirmed that they would continue to maintain a presence in the area of the allotments and with their overt and covert monitoring of traffic speed.  

The chairman stressed the vital importance of reporting all incidents to the police since the number of reported incidents had a direct bearing on the level of policing in the village.  All incidents should be reported to the Crime Recording Unit 01622 690055.  As many as possible of the following details should be given:  time, date, ID details, names of those involved if known, details of any vehicle including registration, colour and make.  Residents should request a Crime Report Number.  Although residents might not feel their information is relevant often it may be the missing piece of the jigsaw and greatly assist the police.

The next meeting of the council is on Tuesday 1 February at 7.30pm in the village hall.  

 FOOTPATHS GROUP  

The February walk will be on Sunday 6^th.  We meet at the Bucks Head, Godden Green at 2.15pm sharp for a walk of about 3 miles in the Knole Park area.

 The March walk will be on Sunday 6th March meet at the school in Mereworth (please park considerately) at 2.15 pm sharp for a walk of about 3 to 4 miles in the Mereworth Woods area. Sturdy footwear is recommended as it may well be muddy. All welcome and if interested in some fresh air and exercise just turn up at the start. If you require further information please ring Mark or Joan on 01622 812087.

 DEMELZA HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE.

QUIZ NIGHT  Saturday 5^th March 2005 , 7pm ,

As many of you know, in June 2005 I set off to India where I am undertaking a trek in the Himalayas at Ladakh, ascending to 4000m.  I am paying my own costs for the trip and like others taking part, am raising funds on behalf of children with a life limiting illness, who are taken care of at Demelza House Children’s Hospice at Sittingbourne. As part of my fundraising, we are holding a Quiz night at Wateringbury C of E Primary School on Saturday 5^th March 2005 .   Tickets are £6 per head to include  “very nice nibbles” (savoury and sweet) - please bring along your own drinks.   We will try for tables of 6 but can team you up if necessary.  We have an excellent quizmaster (Roger Carver) and I am confident this will be a good evening.  So please give me, and more importantly Demelza, your support.  Thank you. To book a table or for further information  please contact me.

“Dinner party” raffle winners were Anne and Bob Ede.  Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket . Christine Thomas  01622 816728.

UNWANTED PC’s, JEANS AND JUMPERS!

If, following the festive season, you find that you have any unwanted computers, jeans or jumpers – then the Kenward Trust could use them!! Warm clothing at this time of year for Kenward Trust’s residents recovering from the effects of substance abuse, is really needed and always welcome. Kenward also has an excellent education programme that helps people with reading and writing skills and we need unwanted PC’s so that residents can practise what they have learned. If you can help, please contact Tony Williams or Rob Abraham at the Kenward Trust on 01622  814187

WATERINGBURY MILLENNIUM VILLAGE HALL UPDATE

CAN YOU HELP PLEASE?

This is an important time for our new Village hall. In the autumn, we had the exciting news that we had reached the final of the National WREN Challenge Grant to win £250,000 towards the cost. We have just sent off our bid and will know the outcome in March. We have also submitted a bid to the Lottery for £100,000 and the panel are considering our application this month.   Please keep your fingers crossed that we will be successful in both these bids. If we are, we will have secured much of the funding for our new hall, which would terrific.  We do still need your help, however…So if you are a member of a local group or organisation, please could you run a fund raising event for us?

Coffee Mornings - Jumble Sales – Raffles – Sales – Entertainment - Teddy Bears picnic - Sponsored events etc. are always popular and could really make a difference. We would be happy to help with the publicity and anything else you need. So please ask your group to put its thinking cap on and come up with a fun idea!

Or if your family is able to contribute a regular monthly covenant or make a donation towards the project, we would be very grateful. As a registered charity, we are able to claim tax relief on donations and your contribution will be recognised by a plaque in the entrance to the new hall. We really would appreciate your support.

So, if you or your group can help, please contact Dennis Stones on 01622 813674

In the meanwhile, we are starting the exciting phase of planning the detail of the new building.  We hope to start work in June and the professional Design Team have been consulting all users about refinements to the building, under the coordination of the Architect and our Quantity Surveyor, Barry Cann, who is the Contract Administrator. .They have taken account of many good suggestions given at Design Workshops that were held in December and the final plans should be on display in the hall from the end of the month. A volunteer Buildings Sub Group of villagers is overseeing the project and will make recommendations to the Trustees as the project progresses.

With your help, we hope that 2005 will be a really exciting time…and our new hall will be happening…at last.  

WATERINGBURY MILLENNIUM VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT GROUP

VILLAGE  PEOPLE

TOM FRASER

2 September 1935 to 15 January 2005

It was with great sadness that we learnt of the death of Tom Fraser.  Born in Aberdeen , he moved to England in the late 1950s, and married Margaret in 1960.  Tom was our Wateringbury butcher for nearly 31 years.  Not only was he a skilful and knowledgeable butcher but a man with great warmth of character, always ready with a quip and a laugh.  The inevitable queue outside the shop on a Saturday morning was proof of his popularity and, indeed, the high quality of his meat.  He was also most generous in allowing us to use his shop promoting village events, putting up posters or selling raffle tickets, so that at times his shop was like a sale office and information centre.  But more memorably it was a place of fun and laughter.

We live facing Tom’s shop and can bear witness to the amount of hard work he put in over the years; the lights would come on early and go off late.  He really did earn his retirement and it is sad that he only had four years and that in more recent months he was so very ill.  Our sympathy and condolences go to Margaret, sons Glen and Matthew and their wives and children.

Tom Fraser was a good friend to this village and will always be remembered with great affection.                  Viv and Nell Rubin

Donations in memory of Tom for Heart of Kent Hospice, Macmillan Nurses or Cancer Research UK may be sent c/o Viner & Sons Ltd  54 High Street West Malling.

THANK YOUS TO

Syd Thompsett  for  forming and organising the regular footpaths group walks so successfully over the years.  Syd is now taking a less active part and Mark and Joan Ostheimer  have volunteered to arrange the walks programme for 2005.

Ernie and Helen Ford thank all who prayed for Helen’s recovery during her recent illness and dear neighbours and friends who came to their aid. Helen is now making a good recovery.

WATERINGBURY BUT WHERE?   Sundial in the Churchyard

HISTORY SOCIETY

Our very well attended December meeting commenced in a very seasonal manner with everyone enjoying wine and biscuits to get them in the spirit to listen to the evening’s speaker Dennis Chambers whose subject was ‘Some Kent Ghosts’. Dennis began his talk by asking if any one in the audience believed in ghosts, 50% did, the other 50% either did not or were not sure, but possibly by the end of the evening may have changed their minds. Dennis told us that a ‘ghost’ is the spirit of a dead person (animals included), but can also be an inanimate object.  For example, Biggin Hill Airfield had a phantom spitfire which was known to fly over but never landed. Ghosts make their presence felt or can be seen in the area where they died and although they may alarm the person experiencing them they are generally harmless. Dennis talked for some time about the Blue Bell Hill ghosts believed to be the unfortunate victims of a fatal accident in 1965.  He said the sightings of these ’ghosts’ had been well covered by the media. At the end of the meeting Dennis was asked if he knew of any ghosts in Wateringbury.  He said he was not aware of any but would be delighted to hear of any stories or personal experiences people may have had.

Our January speaker was Martin Lloyd who gave an excellent talk entitled ‘Passports, Assassins, Traitors and Spies’. He told us how three incidents had affected the way passports are designed and issued. The first major change was due to an assassination attempt against Emperor Napoleon III of France in 1858. The assassin had used a British passport which did not belong to him. The political repercussions of this forced changes to be made and a full written description of the holder was afterwards included on all British passports. In 1914 a German spy used a stolen American passport to enter Great Britain in order to spy on naval bases. Following the arrest and execution of the spy, the American authorities decided to include a photograph on every American passport, and this was quickly adopted worldwide. Finally, Martin explained that at the end of WWII William Joyce, who was famously known as Lord Haw Haw, was hanged as a traitor, even though he was a naturalised German. This was because he had neglected to destroy his British passport, which he was carrying with him when he was arrested. During question time at the end of the well attended meeting we learned that Heads of State are now the only people who do not require a passport for international travel.

On 16th February our speaker will be Gordon Bentley talking about H.O.P.S. (History of Pub Signs), tea and coffee available on arrival, 7.40 for 8.00 pm . Janet Hall (817833)

I KNOW IT SOUNDS RIDICULOUS…

 but I am going to run the LONDON MARATHON on April 17 this year.  I have been thinking about doing this for some time and with my next “milestone birthday” not so very distant on the horizon I have now taken the plunge.  I am very fortunate to have been given a place to run by the Kent Association for the Blind, who are based in Maidstone .  They offer practical services and advice to anyone with a sight problem ranging from the talking newspaper service (which sends out 6000 tapes a week), to talking watches, mobility training and IT projects.  In return I have pledged to raise a large sum of money to help them to provide these services to our local blind or partially-sighted family members, neighbours and friends.

 If you see me out running, please offer support and encouragement, and even better offer to sponsor me.  I do not enjoy running and had I been meant to run I am sure I would have been designed differently!  So this is a huge personal challenge for me.   It can only help me if I feel I have the support of my neighbours and friends.

Mandy Rushton   Warden Mill Close  Maidstone 812878

 WATERINGBURY CRICKET CLUB NEWS           

QUIZ EVENING – 25 FEBRUARY 2005

This enjoyable event will take place on Friday, 25 February 2005 , at Wateringbury School . Teams of up to 6 people are invited to take part, and the cost will be £3 per person. There will be a licensed bar, and each table will be provided with a small quantity of ‘nibbles’ to help the thought process. To book a table, please telephone Cliff Hickmott on 01622 812164.

INDOOR NET PRACTICE

No sooner than the end of year presentation dinner is over, than we are looking forward to the new playing season to begin.  To ensure that we can reach peak performance levels in time, we have organized indoor net practice every Sunday for 10 weeks. These sessions will take place at Westborough Sports Centre starting on February 13 at 6pm for 1 hour. The cost will be £4 per session.  We are constantly looking for new players to join our local friendly team. If you are interested please contact our Captain, Alan Skelton on 01622 721423, or alternatively just turn up at the Sports Centre on a Sunday evening.

WATERINGBURY WEATHER REVIEW 2004

 Total Rainfall 2004:             788.7mm (31.05”)

13 year average:  709.8mm (27.95”)

Average Minimum Temperature 2004:           7.51°C (45.51°F)

13 year average:  7.21°C (44.97°F)

Average Maximum Temperature 2004:           14.79°C (58.63°F)

13 year average:  14.90°C (58.82°F)

Wettest Month: August        Coldest Months:  January & December

Warmest Months: June, July & August.  

The above figures do not really tell us a lot. But when I looked into the patterns on a daily basis it was clear that the weather is becoming a lot less predictable than used to be the case. Last winter was fairly mild and we only really had 3 cold spells, although the one at the end of February and beginning of March lasted for 11 days. Fortunately we did not have any precipitation during this time so it did not cause any real problems.  

Late spring and early summer were pretty good with lots of sunshine, however August was a big disappointment, being the wettest month of the year; 119.89mm (4.72”). September was not as wet, but was quite windy, so there was no Indian Summer last year. October brought more rain, 110mm, but November and December were both pretty nondescript.During 2004 we were generally quite lucky in the South East as the severest weather passed us by. However Global Warming continued, causing violent storms and gale force winds from time to time. You will recall that there was flooding in the West Country and 2005 has started with floods in Carlisle and very strong winds especially in Northern Ireland , North West England and Scotland . This has been caused by a series of very deep low pressure systems sweeping in from the Atlantic and tending to hang around.  WWW

 1^ST WATERINGBURY RAINBOWS

 One of our unit leaders has had to give up due to other commitments. We take this opportunity to thank her for all her help and work over the last three years, and wish her well for the future.  We can run at present with help from other leaders but this will only be a short term solution.  Sadly if another leader is not found then we will only be able to accommodate 10 girls instead of 15, which will of course mean that many girls within the village will not have the opportunity to join the unit.  We have to work  5:1 (we have a long waiting list).  If you think you would  enjoy helping for one hour a week during term time – 4:30-5:30 on  Monday evening, the only qualification needed is to enjoy working with children and having fun.  We would love to hear from you.  For more information please contact   mjmawhite@lycos.co.uk.   Maria and Sharon

KENT BENEFITS PARTNERSHIP AND THE PENSION SERVICE

Many pensioners pay more council tax than they need to because they do not contact their council to find out if they are entitled to pay less.  In Kent around 30,000 pensioners collectively, could be £10 million better off. Contact Kent Benefits Partnership for further information on 0845 345031.  Pensioners may already claim benefit entitlements on their state pension and feel they are not eligible for more. The Pension Service will help and give you all the information and advice on what you are entitled to.  They will also arrange a home visit if you wish. For information on your state pension and all entitlements to benefit including pension credit call 0845 6060265.

If you are approaching pension age and would like a pension forecast call 0845 6060265 to obtain an application form.  Note: The Kent Benefits Partnership and The Pension Service will be in Wateringbury Village Hall on Monday 4^th April between 10.00am to 12.00 midday . Representatives will be on hand to give advice and answer any questions.

MEDWAY VALEY RAILWAY LINE

The South Eastern & Chatham Railway Preservation Group (SECRP) is looking to establish a Medway Valley branch group to coordinate the acquisition of a station building and/or signal box on the Medway Valley Line.  A proportion of the infrastructure on this line is potentially threatened by the modernisation scheme of signalling that is currently taking place by Network Rail and also by the announcement of plans by the Strategic Rail Authority to reduce trains stopping at the Medway Valley stations from 2007.  The aim of the Medway Valley Line group would be to list/save the station and signal box at East Farleigh and convert them into a museum about the line, the area’s local history and wildlife/walks along the Medway Valley .  If this was successful then it could possibly be extended to other buildings along the line (Wateringbury station and signal box are already listed).  Kent County Council and Rail Track (now Network Rail) supported similar plans for Yalding in 2002 but the project stalled due to lack of local support.  The Medway Valley Railway is one of Britain ’s most picturesque and historical lines, with more SE&CR heritage than any other line in Kent , Sussex or London .

The SECRPS is appealing for YOUR help to take these plans forward.  Anyone interested in helping to set up a local Medway Valley Railway Group can contact ADAM WHITEHOUSE on 01622 813183.

DECEMBER 2004/JANUARY 2005

Rostrum wishes all readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.   Special thanks go to all the street reps who deliver Rostrum each month. 

 Sometimes copy sent by e-mail does not arrive;  we will always acknowledge safe receipt of items so please check for our acknowledgement.  -  The Editorial Team - Christine, Janet and Susan

VILLAGE DIARY

December

4          Innominata – Concert in Church – 8pm

5          Footpaths Group walk – village hall car park - 2.15pm sharp

7          Parish Council meeting – hall – 7.30pm

15         Some Kent Ghosts – History Society – hall – 8pm

16         9 Lessons & Carols by Candlelight – Church – 8pm

January

1                     Footpaths Group New Year Walk – North Pole  - 10.30am sharp

4          Parish Council meeting – hall - 7.30pm

16         History Society talk on Passports – hall -  8pm

20         Flower Club – Nettlestead hall – 7.30pm

February

1          Parish Council meeting – hall – 7.30pm

4 & 5    Pantomime – Nettlestead Hall - see below

6          Footpaths Group – Bucks Head, Godden Green – 2.15pm sharp

The funding of the proposed pedestrian crossing near the school was discussed in some detail.  After various contributions had been made it was thought there would be a shortfall of £3000.  The parish clerk was asked to write to Nettlestead Parish Council to invite them to contribute towards the cost of the crossing since it would be of direct benefit to the children of Nettlestead who attend Wateringbury school.  It was hoped that the necessary funding would be arranged in the near future to allow this much needed project to go ahead.  

The problems of the speeding traffic were raised by several residents at the open forum.   The problems had been the subject of a feature article in the Kent Messenger and the Parish Clerk had been interviewed by County Town Radio on the subject.  Tonbridge & Malling Council are making a full investigation and their report is expected at the end of the year.  The council hopes that approval will be given for a 40 mph limit to be approved from the village boundary to the existing 30 mph limit which will remain in the vicinity of the traffic lights.  

The council’s comments on the following planning applications may be viewed at the T & M offices, Kings Hill.  Replacement of feed and hay store with new goat house at Little Acres, 31 Teston Road, Construction of 2 storey rear and side extension at 21 Phoenix Drive, Erection of a 2 bay timber frame garage and conversion of existing integral garage to play room at Gransden Yard, Tonbridge Road and removal of condition 7 on planning permission ref TM/78/523 linking bedroom accommodation to public house at Wateringbury Hotel, Tonbridge Road.

 After the meeting the council met the trustees of the new village hall to discuss the progress of the fund raising and other related matters.

 The next meetings of the Parish Council, to which members of the public are most welcome, will be in the Village Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesdays 7 December and 4 January.

  FROM THE PARISH COUNCIL CHAIRMAN

 Wateringbury is our beautiful Kentish village.

May 2005 be as peaceful and stress free as we would like it to be. 

On the roads, back off, slow down and just be pleasant drivers.  On the streets and in the shops be kind, considerate and smiling.  A smile uses less muscles than a frown.  Use a smile, it disarms your enemies, foes and neighbours. 

Keep our village litter free and help to make it a safer place for everyone. 

Our thanks to all who keep us safe, secure and well.

Brian and Lorraine Smith-Lowther

WATERINGBURY FOOTPATH GROUP

The next walk is on Sunday 5 December.  Meet in the Village Hall Car Park at 2.15pm sharp for a local walk of 2 to 3 miles.  As the weather is likely to be rather uncertain at this time of year please wear suitable clothing and footwear.

 For your Diary  (Please note there is no Rostrum in January).

There will be the usual New Year’s Day walk on Saturday 1^st January 2005 .  It will start from the North Pole at 10.30am sharp returning to the pub, if all goes well, at opening time.

 The February walk will be on Sunday 6 February starting from the Bucks Head, Godden Green at 2.15pm sharp for a 3 mile walk in the Knole Park Area.  All welcome and if interested just turn up at the start.  If you require further information about any of these walks please ring 812338.  

May I take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy Christmas and a rambling New Year.                                                    ST

 VILLAGE PEOPLE

Congratulations to . . .

Hilary & Barry Fisher on becoming grandparents for the first time  with the arrival of Alice Olivia on 22 October (7lb 9oz) and of course to proud parents John and Sabrina.

 Justin & Julie Goodyer on the arrival of Ethan Ian (6lb 11oz) on 24 October.  

Angela and Carl Crisp   on the birth of your baby son Freddie Sidney Robert (6lb 9oz) on 17 November with love from Mum and Dad (Doreen and Sid Parks).  

RIP – GERALD GIPSON

Wateringbury residents will be very sad to hear that our good friend Gerald Gipson of Canon Lane died peacefully at home on Friday 12 November.  Gerry, who had had a very long and successful career in the National Health Service, was also very active in the village and had been Chairman of our Local History Society.  He will be sadly missed by his many friends who send their sympathy to his dear wife Sue and family.

(G DeK)

 East Peckham Silver Band will be raising the roof again for this year's Carol Service at All Saints Church, West Farleigh .  The service, which will include the traditional dressing of the crib by children, takes place at 3.30pm on Sunday, December 12 and always attracts a good congregation, in fine voice.  Mince pies and wine will be served following the service - be there early to be sure of  a seat!

 PADDOCK WOOD CHORAL SOCIETY

 Paddock Wood Choral Society will be holding their Candlelit Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 11 in St Andrew’s Church, Paddock Wood. In keeping with the diverse nature of programmes featured in previous years, the choral society will sing a stimulating mixture of traditional and new pieces. In addition  there will be well-known traditional carols for all to sing, including O Little Town of Bethlehem, Once in Royal David's City and Hark the Herald Angels Sing.

The society is very pleased to welcome Suzanne Barrett as soprano soloist for this concert, which will be conducted by the society’s Musical Director, Gareth Stubberfield with accompanist Paul Jeffery. Refreshments of mulled wine, fruit punch and mince pies will be served during the interval. With the church decorated with festive greenery and lit by candles, this is a concert not to be missed. The concert starts at 8pm. Tickets cost £7, £6 OAP and Student and £1 under 16 years and include a programme. Contact the Concert Manager, Madeleine Bohringer, on 01892 836598 for further details or see the society's web site www.paddockwood-choral.org.uk, or e-mail tickets@paddockwood-choral.org.uk.

 WATERINGBURY BRIDGE CLUB

 We still meet every Thursday at 7.30pm in the Village Hall and have settled down to a very friendly routine whereby everyone will always “get a game” irrespective of numbers attending.  New members are always welcome, either ‘singles’ or ‘pairs’.  Please just come along, or phone me on 813622 for more information.

NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL – NOVEMBER 2004.

 As I write this, it is a beautifully bright and sunny November day. The sky is blue and cloudless, and the air is still and clear after a cold night. We stand now between what we can remember of the summer, and the winter, which we know is lurking around the corner.

At school it is no different. We have been at work now for almost ten weeks, with just over five weeks to the Christmas break. We are hopefully ready to face the winter, not just the cold weather and all that brings, but the key work decisions which will be made before the warmer weather of Spring greets us. By the end of April, our Year Six leavers will know which Secondary Schools they will attend; our Staffing will be more settled, and we will be a whole School with no room for any additions before September.

Staffing is a very important element of any school.  We continue to have a really excellent team of teachers and support staff. We were all sorry to lose Miss Goreham, who was promoted to Deputy Headteacher at another school in the Summer. She is a teacher of real talent and her present school’s gain is our loss. Miss Catherine Payne has filled the gap Miss Goreham left. Miss Davies unfortunately has had to resign on the grounds of ill health. She has our best wishes for her recovery. Miss Kerry Jupp, who is currently working at Tonbridge Grammar School , will replace her in January. We are very grateful to Jonathan Overell who stepped into the breach to temporarily fill that gap left by Miss Davies’ absence. However, no amount of arm-twisting, physical, mental or financial, has persuaded him to take up again a permanent post – yet. Our caretaker Mr. Paul Welch has been absent all this term with an arm injury. We look forward to his recovery and return. In the meanwhile, I have been so impressed by, and am indebted to, my lunchtime supervisory team who have taken it upon themselves to keep the school looking really clean and sparkling. We all owe Mesdames Constable, Deeble, Holdstock and Lawrence a debt of gratitude for the way in which they have taken this on board for the sake of the children and the school.

Finally, I feel I should say something about the lack of space in the School. We are a small village school, with nine classrooms and places for about 240 children. But more people want their children to come here than we have spaces for them. Families have moved into the village only to find that their children have to go to school elsewhere. We, as a KCC Church Controlled School , have been told we must take a minimum of 36 new children each year. It is now statutory that we must not have more than 30 in a Key Stage 1 class. This has to result in mixed age classes. The irony is that when the school was built, with only five classrooms and space for 140 children, we had mixed age classes because we were too small. Our Governors really struggle to come up with sensible solutions to this dilemma. It is therefore important for you to register your small children for school early so that we can plan ahead.

                                                                        RICHARD ARNOLD

AGE CONCERN MAIDSTONE

One of the tasks of Age Concern Maidstone is to provide transport and facilities for elderly people to be able to enjoy each others’ company at various centres in the Maidstone area.  Minibuses collect each individual that would like to attend, with some of them it is their only outing in the week, and transport them to one of these various centres. 

The people who work away from the centres on behalf of the clients are all volunteers who have the day time availability once or perhaps twice a week to either drive a minibus for collection purposes, or to act as an escort within the minibus taking the clients to the centre, or to go directly to  assist the centre existing staff at the clients’ arrival. 

None of these tasks are too strenuous and do provide our older population with so much enjoyment, and they are a pleasure to meet.  If there is anybody who feels that they could spare some time to help carry out one of these activities do please make contact with me at any time on 01622 813660, or direct to the Age Concern office and speak to either Chris, Maggie or Lynn on 01622 753618 between 8.30am and 4pm. 

With thanks for reading this appeal – Geoffrey Massey - Wateringbury

 WATERINGBURY BABY AND TODDLER GROUP

 The new committee would like to thank Jo May and Maggie Cooper for their commitment and work over the last two years and, whilst staying on the committee, they  stepped down from their respective roles as Chairman and Treasurer at the AGM.

The Group will run as usual for the under 5s at the village hall every Wednesday and Friday from 10 am to 12 noon , including during the holidays.  There are many events taking place over the Christmas period, not least of which is the children's Christmas party on Friday 3 December, which is always very well attended.  Leading up to Christmas there will be seasonal arts and crafts for the children to take home.  

Available for the children are books, toys, puzzles and pieces of large play equipment for both babies and toddlers.  A small charge is made of £1.50 per family, which includes biscuits and refreshments.  We welcome new faces and committee member Nicola Plane (01622 817462) would be more than happy to accompany anyone on their first visit if they so wish.  If you have any questions please telephone Liz Whitehouse (Chairman) on 01622 813183.                                                  Nicola Plane

Alpha is here again!

 We will be running an Alpha Course in the Benefice in January 2005 through to Easter.

Questions: Who’s it for? When is it? Will you enjoy it? And what’s it all about?

Answers: You! Tuesday evening, starting 4th January! Yes! And that will take a bit longer!  

When did you last spend some time thinking about your faith, life, the universe and all that? Alpha is an opportunity to do just that, in a friendly, warm environment. First of all sharing a meal together. Then listening to an enthusiastic speaker. And then getting a chance to think and talk about your ideas, concerns, doubts, questions, feelings – if you want to of course! Nothing is taboo; no question too ‘heavy’, no comment too ‘silly’. Whether you are a Christian or not, Alpha is for you – you will learn from it. Ask the questions you think you should know the answer to but don’t! Somebody else there will be relieved that you asked it rather than them!  

More details, with dates, times, venues etc. will be available during December in a leaflet that you can pick up in church. In the meantime, if you’d like to know more, or if you want a leaflet sooner, please contact me by one of the following methods:

Telephone: 01622 817991

Email: david@dc-uk.co.uk

Snail-mail: 4, Warden Mill Close, Wateringbury , Kent . ME18 5DJ

Text: 07710 416978

TESTON & WATERINGBURY NURSERY GROUP

 The group’s Annual General Meeting was held on 20^th October, summarising so far, a very productive year, thanks to dedicated hard working staff, committee members and parents/carers. We would like to express particular thanks to key committee members Anita Hanley (chairperson), Helen Crawford (secretary) and Jo Prideaux (treasurer), who have expectedly stepped down following their respective child starting primary school.  (Although a number of these positions have now been filled, we are still seeking additional new members to join the committee). The nursery has passed the Ofsted education inspection, and the Ofsted Care inspection, which took place in September.

 Besides organising spring and autumn walks, a visit to a fire station and to Hadlow Farm, numerous and much needed fund raising events for the nursery and other good causes have also been achieved i.e. various raffles, Easter bunny hunt, sports day, pilates evening, and several coffee mornings. More recently, the children enjoyed dressing up as either super heroes or princesses, for Genes for Jeans Day.  

Children in Need is currently underway, with the nursery holding a ‘bring in a well loved teddy to nursery week’, plus a  ‘guess where Pudsey Bear is hiding’ competition. Leading up to Christmas, a visit to Teston Church , including a talk by Rev Jim Brown, has been arranged for the children.   The children will shortly be undertaking a sponsored Christmas decoration activity.

Diary Dates

7^th and 8^th Dec Christmas Carol Concerts  9^th Dec Children’s Christmas Party

Term Dates

Christmas Holiday starts Monday 13 December to Friday 7 January 2005

Return: Monday 10 January 2005

Half Term:  14^th to 18^th February 2005

Elaine Pascoli

WEATHER WATCH  OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

 In last month’s Rostrum I commented on the low pressure in the first part of October.  Well this continued for the rest of the month and brought plenty of rain.  The total was 114mm (4.5”) compared with September when we only had 25mm (1”).  However the prevalence of cloud kept the minimum temperature above average and the maximum a fraction below average.  With just over one half of the month gone we have had less than half the average November rainfall and although the temperatures have kept up quite well we have seen the first frosts of the winter and we could have some chillier spells before the end of the month.

I have heard people saying that we must be in for a hard winter because there were so many berries this autumn.  But this does not follow because plants react to the weather we have had, not to the weather we are going to have and the proliferation of berries will be a result of the wet August.  We are probably due a cold winter but at the moment there is no reason to think that 2004/05 will be worse than usual.         WWW

HISTORY SOCIETY

John Elderton came along in November, at short notice, to talk to us about Trade Routes (the growth of Highways) which proved to be a very interesting and colourful topic. Depicted through slides John showed how goods were initially moved on pack horses and then advanced to wagons. The routes travelled were not always the straightest or shortest but the easiest and where possible hills were avoided; bridges were built without sides to enable wide loads to cross unhindered. Slides of 16^th century maps showed main routes that we recognised and use today. John mentioned that Drovers’ routes (which are now lorry routes) often went from the north east to south west and were not only used to move cattle and sheep but also turkeys, geese and ducks. In the 18^th century he reported that it is recorded that 150 thousand turkeys were driven from Norfolk to Kent ; before starting out they were made to walk through melted tar and sawdust to protect their feet on the journey! Drovers (and cattle) on long journeys were also, after parting with half a penny, allowed to stay over night in Halfpenny Fields and Lanes. John said that although the building of canals and the arrival of the railway enabled large loads to be moved more quickly and brought to the towns and country a wider range of goods, it was still the markets held in local villages which produced the most trade.

On 15th December our speaker will be Dennis Chambers talking about ‘Some Kent Ghosts’ after you have first enjoyed wine and biscuits! Our first 2005 speaker on 19th January will be Martin Lloyd whose subject is ‘Passports‘ - 7.40 for 8.00 pm .                                               Janet Hall

THE AUTUMN TERM SO FAR                            

Wateringbury Cubs have had little chance to get bored as the nights have drawn in and weather turned miserable.  Here are a few of the highlights.

Wateringbury Cubs enter the Paralympics

Representing the Ukraine , Greece and Brazil , Cubs held their own Paraplegic games.  Pre-games “training” included finding out a little about their country, and returning national flags to the correct country.  Excitement ran high as the Paralympic torch toured their countries, lighting lamps along the way, and finally lighting the Paralympic flame in the Glebe Meadow “arena”.  And so to the Games themselves.  There was a paraplegic swimming race, blind obstacle course, wheelchair-bound javelin-throwing – and more.  Competition was fierce, but throughout it all Cubs remembered the spirit of fairness, personal integrity and non-discrimination which are the ethos of the Paralympics.

 Cubs GO MAD

Joined by other Packs from all over Kent , our Cubs had a wonderful day exploring Music, Art,    Drama – and plenty of Craft for good measure.  Even before arrival they were practising their skills with an impromptu concert in Akela’s car and talent show in Baloo’s.  Once there it was non-stop activity with 60 bases ranging from circus skills to digital photography, glass-painting to woggle-making, playing primitive African musical instruments to learning to use sound-mixing decks and lighting, from balloon-modelling to centrifugal art.  All too soon it was time for the Grand Finale and prize-giving – complete with our own special highlight as Michael won second prize in the digital photography – well done Michael!  All of which set the Cubs in good stead for the part they played in the October Family Service at church.  Having welcomed members of the congregation as they arrived and handed out hymn books, they presented a short play illustrating the day’s Gospel story.  They led the prayers, then dutifully kept an eye on Rev. Jim’s naughty friend George who helped drive home the message that we must persist in our prayers to God, because  he will surely answer us if we do so.

 Cubs drive Akela up the wall

For all our Cubs it was a first – the opportunity to go rock-climbing.  Securely attached to ropes, and anchored by experienced climbers, Cubs played spiderman as they worked their way high up the rock face.  And then it was Akela’s turn.  Flanked by her two newest recruits, she entrusted her life to climber/anchor-man Duncan as she released her hold in order to invest Lorcan and Alex into the Pack.  These two brave souls clung on with one hand, raising the other in the Scout sign to make their promise to do their best in all they do. 

 As well as all this, Cubs have planted bulbs (to be given as gifts later in the year), went bat-hunting, met a Hearing Dog, and enjoyed the simple delights of bonfire night.  And there’s still plenty to come in the remaining weeks of the term.  So if tany youngsters, boy or girl, aged 8-9yrs, would like to join us on Tuesday evenings give me a call.                                 Joanna Fyson, Akela 01662 814980

We continue occasional feature on local charities with . . .

DEMELZA HOUSE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE

The Demelza House family provides an oasis of care for children throughout the South East whose medical condition means they are unlikely to reach adult life.

When a child is diagnosed with a life-limiting condition, parents have to cope not only with the fact that they will not reach adulthood, but with the additional demands of providing 24 hour care needs, visits to hospitals as well as looking after other family members.  Relationships can be strained to breaking point.

The Demelza House family is there to help them

Demelza House provides an eight bedded hospice with specialist paediatric nurses in Sittingbourne , Kent .  Over 300 children and their families benefit from a wide range of respite and palliative care facilities that include a multi-sensory room, Soft Play, Jacuzzi, and Adolescents’ Room. Available therapies include music, art and aromatherapy.  Care staff make the most of every moment that the child spends at Demelza House. Parents have described having the opportunity of an undisturbed night’s sleep as pure luxury.  At the end of the child’s illness, we offer a comprehensive service of support using a bereavement suite - known as the Hop Garden – which enables a family to let go and say goodbye at their own pace.  We share our expertise in childhood bereavement with organisations such as the Police and the bereavement charity, CRUSE.  We can also care for children who have died unexpectedly in the community. 

Demelza-James offers a hospice at home service for children with a life-limiting illness and their families.  The service complements the care offered at Demelza House with the Demelza-James specialist paediatric nurses going directly into the family home to provide medical care, crisis intervention, an on-call service and respite.  As well as providing expert advice in the home, Demelza-James can simply just allow Mum and Dad to be Mum and Dad again.

Demelza Child will provide complementary facilities for acute care, in addition to other essential hospice facilities in South London . The organisation demonstrates our commitment to increase the number of respite days available to existing Demelza children, as well as newly identified children living with life-limiting conditions.

We cannot change the outcome for these children, or those who have yet to start using Demelza House, but we can add life to their days when days cannot be added to life.

It costs £2.2 million per year to run our wide range of hospice services and we receive no statutory funding.

www.demelzahouse.org

Demelza House Children’s Hospice, Rook Lane , Bobbing, Sittingbourne , Kent ME9 8DZ Tel: 01795 845231 Central Fundraising

BENEFICE OF EAST MALLING, TESTON AND WATERINGBURY

Vicar                       Rev Jim Brown

The Vicarage, 2 The Grange,

East Malling, ME19 6AH

Telephone            01732 843282

Mobile                    07957 906297

e-mail                    jamesbrown2@tinyworld.co.uk

 PRAYER REQUESTS  

If you have a prayer request for yourself or someone you know please speak to Mike or Jan Pursey 01622 814324 or e-mail mikejan.pursey@virgin.net

 FROM THE CHURCH WARDENS  

Special thanks are extended to all who have helped and supported the work of the church during the year.  We wish all parishioners a very peaceful and happy Christmas season and look forward to welcoming you at one or more of the services on this year’s bookmark.  Mike and Percy  

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS  Father Jim and Jean wish everyone a  Blessed Christmas and a Joyful, Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year.  

CONGRATULATIONS TO CHURCH ORGANIST HILARY FISHER who celebrates 25 years of playing the organ at Wateringbury Church on Christmas Day 2004.   

WEDDING DAY THANKS  

We are writing to thank everyone who was involved in our wedding in any way.  We had a wonderful day, and although the weather was not very kind, people were so warm and kind with their best wishes.We’d like to thank in particular all those at the church – Mike and Jan Pursey for being a superb Best Man and Wife combination, Alice and the entire Scarlin family, David for reading the lesson, Gillian and co for the beautiful flowers, Hilary for the music, Christine for finding us a reception venue, the church wardens past and present, and all those too numerous to mention individually.  Special thanks to Jim for making it such a lovely service that we will always remember.  Finally, thanks to 1st Wateringbury and 1st Barming Guides for their singing during the signing of the register.  We are so glad that we are part of a warm and friendly church in such a lovely village as Wateringbury.                                                                         Sheena and Gordon Self

CHRISTMAS – SIMPLY ENJOY!  

This is now my third Christmas with you and I am really looking forward to meeting you all as we gather to spend some time with each other in joyous worship over this festive period. Our churches are likely to be full places of warmth and friendship. There will be Nativity plays, Christingles, Carol services and the Christmas Eve and Day services too.  Unlike many big stores up and down the country where there will be no Father Christmas this year because of cutbacks, there are no cutbacks in the church, there will always be a welcome to you all as we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child. Please do join us for these occasions.  You are most welcome!  

When you attend church at Christmas there is often a complete range of reasons and emotions. Some of you attend because that is what you do each year and you like it! Others of you have children and like to be a part of the Christmas activities with them. Some of you simply enjoy the Carols. You may even be keen to hear a message from the church, which is encouraging, clear and full of hope and promise. You may come in fear, frightened that the Vicar will tell you off for not coming at other times (No chance of that in our churches!). Some of you have real concerns and needs, which you hope will be met by the church, perhaps you are recently bereaved or unwell in some way. All of these reasons are entirely valid and the church must aim to meet them all.  

Actually, it is a very simple task for the church because all of the hard work has been done for us by the story of Christmas itself. It is all done for us through Jesus. Jesus came into the world as a real person, with a family, as a refugee. He was born in vile circumstances and lived a very ordinary working class life. He became a traveller, moving about the countryside, meeting people and offering them his message. This all led to him being put to death and eventually rising from the dead to claim his place with his heavenly father. Jesus experienced everything that you and I have, and worse, and as a result it should enable the church to understand all our difficulties and meet our needs. And we don’t have to go searching for decorations or lots of food to eat in order to make it feel like Christmas either; it all happens because of Jesus.  

Now if the church can’t put that message across then it is quite simply failing in a most fundamental task and the whole business of the Christmas story becomes remote and abstract. Come along to Church this Christmas, for whatever reason, and simply enjoy!

God Bless

Jim Brown

MUMS, DADS, CARERS & TODDLERS SERVICE  

A warm welcome awaits you all at our meetings, led by Rev Jim Brown.  Usually we meet in the Guide & Scout HQ in Glebe Meadow on Mondays at 2pm .  However during December and January there will be a few changes.

Monday 13^th – Nativity in Church

Monday 20^th – Christmas Party  - usual venue

Christmas Holidays until the new year when our first meeting will be on Monday 10^th January.  

SUNDAY CLUB  

The club meets each Sunday, during school term time at the same time as the Church Service.  We leave the church during the first hymn and go to the vestry for our bible story and activities and return near to the end of the service.  Children aged 4 upwards are very welcome.  On the third Sunday of each month children are encouraged to bring their family along to join in the Family Service in church.  This year the club members will be performing their version of the Nativity at the service on Sunday 12^th December at 9.30am .  After this we will be on holiday and will return on Sunday 9 January.  For further details please phone Gillian Sessions on 813076.  

QUIET HOUR  

Due to Christmas services there will be no quiet hour in December. The next hour will be on Wednesday 12 January between 8-9pm when the church will be open for those who would like to spend time in private prayer, light a candle or find peace and quiet.  Everyone is welcome.

 BIBLE FELLOWSHIP  

The group will be joining in with the parish Advent Course during December.  The normal weekly meetings will restart in January.  Please phone Jan or Mike Pursey for details 814324.   

ADVENT COURSE 2004  

A warm welcome awaits you at this year’s  course Lo, He comes  which has been devised for the benefice by  Canon Derek Carpenter.  All meetings start at 8pm .  Please feel free to ‘travel’ round the benefice if you are not able to get to the course on a particular evening.  

Wateringbury – Mondays 29 November, 6 and 13  December at The Coach House,  along the track off Bow Road

East Malling – Tuesdays 30 Nov and 7 December at 39 Chatfield Way and 14 December at 6 Reeves Court

Teston - Thursdays 2, 9 and 16 December at South Cottage, Malling Road  

CHURCH SERVICES  DURING DECEMBER AND JANUARY  

DECEMBER

Sun 5              09.30              Matins

Sun 12           09.30              Sunday School Nativity

Mon 13          18.00              School Carol Concert

Thurs 16       08.00              9 Lessons & Carols by Candelight

Sun 19            08.00              BCP Holy Communion

11.15              Family Eucharist

Fri 24              17.00              Blessing of the Crib

Fri 24              23.30              Midnight Mass

Christmas Day    10.30      Family Communion

Sun 26            10.00             BENEFICE SERVICE AT TESTON

JANUARY

Sat 1               Noon               NEW YEAR PRAISE 

Sun 2              09.30              Matins

Sun 9              09.30              Holy Communion

Sun 16            08.00              BCP Holy Communion

11.15                            Family Service         

Sun 23            11.15              Holy Communion

Sun 30            10.00              BENEFICE SERVICE AT EAST MALLING

NOVEMBER 2004

VILLAGE DIARY

2^ND November             Parish Council Meeting

 7^th November             Footpath Walk – King & Queen, East Malling – 2.15 p.m.

 11^th  November         Women's Institute  2.30pm   Village Hall

 13^TH November         Church and churchyard autumn clean

-  9.30 am – noon

 14^th November          Sale – CHILDREN IN NEED – 6 Phoenix Drive – 3.0 p.m – 5.0  p.m

  17^th November          History Society – What’s in a Name – Margaret Burns - Village Hall, 7.40 p.m.

  25^th November          Teston & Wateringbury Nursery Group – Quiz Night – 8.0 pm Teston Village Hall

 WATERINGBURY FOOTPATH GROUP

 The next walk is on Sunday, 7^th November.  Meet at the King and Queen at East Malling at 2.15 p.m. sharp for a walk of approximately 3½ miles.  All welcome, and if interested just turn up at the start.

 For your Diary  The walk in December will be a local walk starting from the Village Hall Car park at 2.15 p.m. sharp.

 For any further information ring 812338.   ST

 WATERINGBURY BUT WHERE? 

The Lodge, Tonbridge Road

VILLAGE PEOPLE       

 Congratulations to

Craig & Julie Lightheart on the birth of Chloe Elise on 21st. September 2004

 Carolyn and Richard of Beck Manor on the birth of Eloise on 7th September 2004 .

 Scott Smart on coming 4^th in the British Super Bike championships in the 2004 season.  Scot rides number  88 and this year rode for Hawk Kawasaki. 

 THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU  

To everyone who came along to the Bring and Buy Sale held to raise money for Demelza House Children’s Hospice.  I am delighted to tell you that, including raffle tickets, we raised a massive £1,000.20p.  This certainly exceeded my expectations even though I know from past experience that Wateringbury is full of supportive and caring people.  Shirley Spencer, Events Manager, for Demelza joins me in saying a huge thank you.  All goods left over from the day have been taken by Shirley to be used in the Demelza House shop.

 I think many of you will be pleased to know that Margaret and Tom Fraser won the hanging basket from the raffle of the day.  The “hassle free dinner party” raffle is running until December so I hope that if you haven’t already bought a ticket you will give me a call.  I promise that we will make the “dinner” a special occasion for whoever wins.  The prize can be taken anytime next year – perhaps for a birthday or similar.  So please give me a call for a ticket.  £5 to include all food.

 – Christine Thomas, 816728.

 FLOWER CLUB

 Our flower show at the beginning of October was very successfully attended, with over 54 visitors, the standard of the competition work was very good indeed, our youngest entrant was only 13, so let’s hope she continues to compete, as I am sure she will be someone to watch for in the future. There is no meeting in December, as it is the members only Coral Anniversary  celebration dinner.      JEAN SCHOFIELD

 PARISH COUNCIL OCTOBER MEETING REPORT

 The parish council is in negotiation with Tonbridge & Malling Council in an attempt to have a 40 mph limit placed on Red Hill from the North Pole pub to the existing 30mph signs.  Parishioners who wish to formally express a view on the proposal should write to Isaac Kwakye, Traffic Team, T & M Borough Council, Kings Hill, West Malling.

 Police speed checks will continue on a regular basis within the village.  It is suggested that motorists ensure they drive within the speed limits at all times.  

The problems with access to the Playing Fields from the Station were discussed at length.  Meetings are planned which, it is hoped, will enable a satisfactory conclusion to be agreed.

 The parish council has purchased part of the track from Fields Lane to the first dog leg bend.  There is a right of way over the land to allow access to the playing fields and its amenities. It is hoped that parish ownership will allow greater control for the benefit of all  

The Parish Council’s comments on the current planning applications can be viewed at the Tonbridge & Malling Planning Office, Kings Hill:

 2 storey extension with 2^nd floor roof space accommodation to replace existing ground floor kitchen, provide 3^rd bedroom and upstairs bathroom and ensuite to existing bedroom at 51 Old Road :  Listed Building Application for alterations to elevations and internal layout and removal of outbuildings at 238 Tonbridge Road :

Removal of Willow Tree at 26 Mill Lane :

New front driveway at 123 Bow Road :

 The pedestrian crossing near to the school has been agreed, subject to a financial contribution being made from local sources.  KCC Councillor Trudie Dean is working to secure such funding.  Councillor Dean also reported that Malling School is to be the subject of a complete rebuild, except for the Sports Hall.  The new building will be erected behind the existing one and when the new building is completed the old one will be demolished.

 The government is considering the removal of strategic gap protection (green wedges which separate villages and towns).  In the local area this may have implications for example between Kings Hill and surrounding villages.                                                    

The KCC Highways management unit is to be dissolved.  There will now be 3 groups to service the county.

 Borough Councillor Richard Brown also reported to the meeting matters of local interest including BT’s national review of  it’s 72,000 call boxes 42,000 of which are losing money.  The boxes have been put into 2 groups, those which have a social need and which should be retained and those which will be removed.  The box in the village on Bow Road falls into the Social category.  The parish council will write to BT to express its opinion on the retention of the box. 

 The review of the local development framework is taking place.  There was one application for change of designation which was of local interest to Wateringbury.  Croudace Ltd has applied for change of use from green belt to allocation for housing on land south of Tonbridge Road (the land between Fields Lane and the Playing Fields).  The Parish Council agreed to make the necessary representations to oppose such a change.

 Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council has recently been awarded 58/60 in a national Competent Performance Review.  This was the highest rating of all boroughs in the country.  Councillor Brown praised the hard work of the council’s officers and councillors past and present  which had made this possible.

 The next meetings of the Parish Council will be on  Tuesday 2 November and Tuesday 7 December.  Meetings start at 7.30pm and there is an opportunity for members of the public to raise matters of local interest  CB

 QUIZ NIGHT

 Teston and Wateringbury Nursery Group are holding a quiz night on Thursday 25^th November, at 8.00 pm at Teston Village Hall.

 Teams should be of up to six people and cost is £3 per person

To book a table, please phone 01622 813856 or turn up on the night

Bring your own drinks and nibbles

  MAIDSTONE   HOSPITAL REDUCTION OF ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY

 It is believed that there is a lack of  knowledge by the public throughout mid Kent as to the planned changes being  introduced by the Maidstone & Tunbridge Wells Trust Management.  These  changes show a decrease in  services which are to be transferred to Tunbridge  Wells.

 The most important of these changes show the  potential of an increase in mortality.  The transfer of trauma accident  patients to Tunbridge Wells   Hospital will involve extra transportation on  unsatisfactory roads and lack of helicopter facilities.  

Maidstone , the County Town of Kent, centrally  situated and adjacent to the motorway trunk routes, with an easily accessed  moderately modern hospital, has coped excellently with treating these trauma  patients.  Why change the excellent service provided by Consultants,  Doctors, Nurses and staff in the current Accident & Emergency?  Many  will be moved running down the facilities available resulting in long term  closure.  The staff are very worried and unhappy with the actions being  taken by the current management.  As all the expertise will be moved what  will be the long term future of Maidstone Hospital ?

 There is no time to waste - please help  organise publicity and petitions, letters to MP's and support the 'Say No'  campaign being run by the Kent Messenger, to help build up a groundswell to save  our Maidstone Accident &  Emergency.

  An Action group is in the process of being  established.  For further information you may contact Parish  Councillor Mike Cayzer on 01622 813260.   If you  can, please let the Clerk  have copies of any written responses - address  on back of Rostrum

Thanking you in advance for your  support.

OBJECTIVES OF NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

·        Prevent Crime – by improving security, increasing vigilance, creating and maintaining a caring community and reducing opportunities for crime by increasing crime prevention awareness

·        Assist the Police in Detecting Crime – by promoting effective communication and fast reporting of suspicious and criminal activity

·        Reduce the Fear of Crime – by giving accurate information and promoting community spirit

·        Improve Police/Community Liaison – by providing effective communication between the Police and the watches, by helping to send out crime and crime trends information

·        Promote good contact between the Police and the Community

·        To take positive steps in ensuring that the elderly and vulnerable members of our rural communities do not become victims of crime – AC

PADDOCK WOOD CHORAL SOCIETY

will be having a Christmas Concert with music by Jonathan Willcocks called ‘Christ is Born’, Benjamin Britten’s ‘A hymn to the Virgin’ and a piece called ‘This Day Christ was Born’ by William Byrd plus seasonal Carols on Saturday 11 December 2004 at St Andrew’s Church. Always an enjoyable event and well worth putting in your diary

CRICKET UMPIRING COURSE.

Are there any aspiring Dickie Birds out there ! 

If so you will be pleased to know that an umpiring course will be held the school from January to March 2005. It is aimed at  anyone interested in cricket or who wishes to become an umpire or improve their umpiring skills.

The course will last for between eight and ten weeks. There will be the opportunity to take an examination which is the first step to becoming an International Umpire.

So, if you are interested please ring Dennis Stones on 01622 813674 for further information.

ALLOTMENTS

The Parish Council has organised and paid for  a skip at the Love Lane allotments, and the Allotment Representative has spent some time there filling the skip, and generally tidying up the area of rubbish.

There were a few lager cans thrown there by outsiders, but by far the greatest amount of  rubbish has been dumped by allotment holders. 

Now that the area has been cleared, it will be appreciated if allotment holders will  please refrain from dumping more rubbish there.   AC

TESTON & WATERINGBURY NURSERY GROUP

The nursery group, which runs Monday to Friday 9.30am to 12.15am at Teston Village Hall, currently has a number of places available for children aged between 2.5 and 5 years. For more information, including contact details, please refer to our larger ad on the back cover of this Rostrum.

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE

This month’s meeting is on Thursday 11th November at 2.30pm in  the Village Hall, when we will hear about the Dartmoor National Park from Mr  Peter Davis.

We welcome visitors who will enjoy having a chat, a cup of  tea and mouth watering cakes! Further information 01622  812737

WATERINGBURY PLAYERS

Rehearsals have begun for our Pantomime.  It’s to be Aladdin this time and it’s still not too late to come and join us – just give Chris a call for details (01622 814600). We will be pleased to see you – especially if you can manage an appalling Chinese accent!  On the other hand, we are always in need of behind the scenes help. 

By the way, performances will be on Friday and Saturday February 4th and 5^th if you want to make an early diary note.

Calling ex players.    We are updating our membership records. If you are an ex-player, currently not active but still wishing to remain a member and be informed about our activities, social or otherwise, please give Chris a call to arrange inclusion on our register and payment of subscriptions etc.

WEATHER WATCH

It is not often I mention the barometric pressure, but I do keep a note of the figures, although they are rarely worth a comment.  For those of you who are mystified by the lines on a weather map, the isobar lines are pressure lines like the contours on a map.  In the UK we rarely get very high pressure, but if you see a “high” on the map, it usually means gentle winds and, in the summer, fine weather.  In the winter it can mean sunshine and frost, but quite often we get dull, murky days instead.

Low pressure systems on the other hand, can be very deep, usually mean rain and often high winds.  On the map, if you see the lines close together, it will be windy, if they are far apart it should be calm.

September last was a very dry, warm month, with only 25 mm of rain, against an average of 64 mm, and lots of high pressure.  But you will not need reminding that October was much worse. If you have been looking at the weather map recently, you will have seen lots of low pressure, which explains the difference.   WWW

WATERINGBURY BABY AND TODDLER GROUP

This village group meets every Wednesday and Friday, 10am – 12 noon in Wateringbury Village Hall.  We have a wide selection of toys, games, art and craft materials and play equipment suitable from birth to 5 years. 

Each session costs £1.50 per family and includes drinks and biscuits.  Keys for the hall can be collected by any member from the village Post Office.

This  month toddlers and children attending will have the chance to take part in some Firework night arts and crafts. 

Treasure Trove (new and nearly new clothes for 0-5 years) will be visiting the group on  Wednesday 3^rd and Friday 5^th November.

We are also planning our annual Christmas party for the children as well as our popular mums’ Christmas night out.  Please see our notice board during session time for more details.

Our Annual General Meeting was held last month with a few changes to the committee.  I would like to thank Lynne Collis, Hazel Mitchell, Maggie Cooper and Nicola Plane, who have been the committee over the last two years for all their hard work and commitment.  Jo May (retiring Chairperson)

For further details of the group please contact Liz, Deputy Chairperson on 01622 813183.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON CHILDCARE

Kent Early Years Development and Childcare are asking parents about childcare and children’s services in Kent .  They have produced a short questionnaire to gauge opinions and needs.  Parents in Wateringbury who would like to express their views can find copies of the form in the village hall or request a copy by telephoning 08000 323230 or from www.eydcp.com.

HISTORY SOCIETY

Our October speaker, Alan Moore, gave us a very interesting talk on the History of Silversmithing which took us from the foundation of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths in the early 13th century to the present time. He explained what life would have been like for an apprentice silversmith in the early 14th century and said most of the tools in use today would be familiar to the craftsmen of that time, including the apron, the bottom of which is hooked under the work bench in order to catch any silver fragments!

The talk was illustrated with practical demonstrations of how metal is worked and Alan showed us several items that he had designed and made, including a picture of a 4 foot ceremonial sword and scabbard. He said that a silversmith’s work was to make individual commissioned items, and explained the process involved.

The system of hallmarking was also covered and the meanings of the various symbols explained. He showed us some items of electro plated nickel silver which he is particularly interested in and discussed their markings. Alan finished the meeting by giving us useful tips regarding the handling and cleaning of silver.

Next month on 17th November our speaker will be Margaret Burns, whose subject is ’What’s in a Name’ - a look into the history of some interesting characters, including clerics, nurserymen and others who gave their names to some of our old and well loved apple varieties - 7.40 for 8.00 pm .   Janet Hall – 817833

A FEW BOB HOPE ONE-LINERS TO MAKE YOU CHUCKLE

On old age : “I’ve got to watch myself these days.  It’s too exciting watching anyone else.”

“You know you are getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.”

“I don’t feel old.  I don’t feel anything until noon .  That’s when it’s time for my nap.

OCTOBER 2004

EVENTS DIARY

FOOTPATH GROUP

The next walk is on Sunday 3 October.  Meet in the lane opposite the Chaser pub in Shipbourne at 2.30pm sharp for a walk in the Plaxtol/Shipbourne area of approx 3½ miles.  The scenery in this area is particularly attractive at this time of year and if interested just turn up at the start.

For your diary The walk in November is on Sunday 7th starting from the King and Queen at East Malling at 2.15pm (Please note earlier starting time).  For further information please ring 01622 812338.                   ST

PARISH COUNCIL SEPTEMBER MEETING

Community Police Officer Ford  reported that there had been 15 recorded crimes in the village between 1 August and 7 September including 7 of criminal damage, 1 common assault related (domestic), 2 thefts from motor vehicles, 1 auto theft and 3 non domestic burglaries.  The problems of anti social behaviour at the Love Lane allotments were  discussed with PC Ford who confirmed that the police will continue to patrol the area.  A complaint from a resident about youths on push bikes using the pavements and the problems of illegal parking in the station/school area were also brought to the attention of the meeting.   Police speed checks will continue in the area

School Governors   It was agreed that Phillip Cockburn, who had resigned from the council, should continue to be the Council’s representative on the board of Governors.  Bill Wheeler was shortly to  leave the governing body after over 20 years service.

A26 roundabout at Mereworth The plans for the roundabout which will greatly improve the access to the Mereworth and Kingshill roads were available for inspection.  The work is scheduled to start this Autumn.

Glebe Meadow Play area The clerk was asked to investigate the procedures necessary for the sale of this land to proceed.

New Seat Councillor Michael Cayzer suggested that the council consider providing a seat somewhere between the traffic lights and the church.

KCC Councillor Trudie Dean reported on matters of local interest including the  3500 new houses to be built at Leybourne Grange, Kings Hill, and in the Wouldham area. 25% of the homes will be affordable housing.  The planned changes to the West Malling by-pass is linked to the planning approval for these new homes.  The plans for the road include direct access to West Malling Station from the by-pass.

The Kent Structure Plan for the next 10 years is under review and a new draft is planned.  The draft will be sent to a Government approval panel which will look at country protection.

Fly Tipping an outbreak of flies in the summer had been caused by fly tipping of grass cuttings and other garden waste close to a local stream.  Residents are asked to dispose of all rubbish in a responsible manner using wheelie bins, the bulky refuse trailer which regularly visits Fields Lane , or the Tovil recycling centre.

Planning Applications  the council considered the following local applications.  Its comments can be viewed at the Tonbridge & Malling Offices at Kings Hill.  Insertion of 6 roof lights at The Coach House, Red Hill, Thin and lift canopy of Norway Maple, reduce height of trees along front boundary to 6ft to form a hedge, thin canopy of Mature Tulip Tree by 25% at Eagle Lodge, Mill Lane, Removal of condition 3 of consent to use residential annex as independent dwelling at Grimalkin Place, 37 Barming Road, Minor amendments to previous application  for first floor side and 2 storey rear extension by omitting front recess and increasing the roof height to that of the existing dwelling at 11 The Brucks, Single storey rear addition with storage above at The Stables, The Oasts, Red Hill, New front driveway at 123 Bow Road, 2 storey extension with 2nd floor roof space accommodation to replace existing ground floor kitchen, provide 3rd bedroom and upstairs bathroom and ensuite to existing bedroom at 51 Old Road, Removal of 8 fir trees, 1 shrub and 2 dead stumps at boundary with Tonbridge Road at 238 Tonbridge Road.

The next meetings of the council, to which the public are very welcome, take place in the village hall at 7.30pm on Tuesdays 5 October and 2 November

           
ADVERTISING IN ROSTRUM IN 2005

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR’S SURGERY

Borough Councillor Richard Brown will be holding a surgery in Wateringbury Village Hall on Saturday 16 October from 10 – noon .  This is an opportunity to meet him and discuss any matters of local concern.

BEFRIENDING SCHEME

Age Concern in West Malling run a Befriending Scheme which entails volunteers visiting clients in their own homes once a week.  The service is available for anyone who is lonely, isolated or housebound.  The purpose of the visit is to have a chat over a cup of tea, play a game of cards, etc.  With the growing number of elderly clients now staying in their own homes this is becoming a popular service so Age Concern need to increase the number of volunteers.  Anyone interested in finding out more about becoming a Befriender should contact Pauline Nix on 01732 873977  or pick up a leaflet from the Post Office.

STOP PRESS…GREAT NEWS ABOUT THE NEW VILLAGE HALL

The new village hall moved a step closer this month when we were informed that Wateringbury has reached the final eight places in a national funding competition.

The Waste Recycling Environmental Group, (Wren) is offering two grants of up to £250,000 towards building a new community hall, funded from Landfill Tax Credits. The competition for these awards was open to villages across the country that are within ten miles of a landfill site.

Along with dozens of other villages, we made an initial application and a Wren representative visited us in August. We were told that competition was so fierce that we only had a slim chance of getting to the next stage. So we were thrilled when we heard in September that Wateringbury has been shortlisted and we are one of just eight villages being invited to prepare a detailed bid for the final.

This is great news and we are now busy preparing the application which has to be submitted in January. If we are successful, much of the funding will have been achieved for our new hall…and work could start as early as next summer!  

Even if we don’t get one of the two top prizes, Wren is also offering grants of up to £50,000 to the runners up, which would be a great boost to our funds. So please keep your fingers crossed!  

At the same time as putting in for this competition, we have also submitted an application to the National Lottery. We are still waiting for news of the outcome of this and hope to hear in the next few weeks.

We are confident that we are getting close to achieving our new hall , but we do still need your help for that final push. If you feel able to help in any way, for example by providing a donation, or a covenant, (on which we claim tax relief), please contact Dennis Stones, our treasurer, (Tel 01622 813674)

With all your support we are getting there. THANK YOU! 

 WATERINGBURY VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT GROUP

WATERINGBURY CUBS THWART KIDNAPPERS               

When the Cubs started their Summer Camp this year, little did they know that before the end of the Camp they would be local heroes, congratulated for the significant part they played in helping the police thwart the evil intentions of the kidnappers of Lord and Lady Ashdown (or so the story goes).  Warned in advance that there were to be some Very Important People (VIPs) visiting the campsite during our camp, and that the campsite warden had asked for our help in making the site tidy and safe, Cubs set off on their annual camp, ready to play detective and decorator.  On arrival, though, they found a newspaper article describing spooky happenings in the area, and even an attempted kidnap of a local celebrity.  The Cubs’ task became even more important.

Building on their various skills including mini-pioneering, fire-lighting and backwoods cooking, communication using morse, semaphore, ciphers and secret messages, map-reading and tracking, our young detectives set about preparing for the VIP visit.  On the big day, however, disaster struck.  As our VIPs sat at lunch masked gunmen ran onto our site and kidnapped them.  The Cubs were powerless to stop them, but as soon as the kidnappers had left our young super Sleuths sprang into action to devise a rescue plan.  Working with the police they gathered clues and passed on information which, happily, soon led to the capture of the kidnappers.  Our VIPs, meanwhile, had managed to escape and make their way back to camp, somewhat distressed but otherwise unhurt.  A banquet and celebratory campfire, along with a personal thank-you from the local police, complete with Panda car, brought events to a happy conclusion. 

Well, that was the highlight of our Cub year.  But we have been enjoying and learning from a great many other exciting activities over the last few months.  Cubs have developed their firelighting skills and cooked delicious snacks over an open fire.  They have learned how to stay safe near water and put that knowledge to use with swimming and raft-making excursions.  Thinking about those with disabilities, we learned a little sign language, and played silent games using it while also raising funds in a Sponsored Hush.  We’ve been on hikes and improved our map-reading and compass-use skills.  Using our skills in knotting and lashing, Cubs helped their Dads build real, firing catapult machines capable of battering down the strongest fortress … well, almost!

Over the coming months we shall be bat-watching and finding out more about how they navigate and communicate;  finding out how dogs can help the blind and the deaf;  thinking about what Harvest Festival means around the world;  growing bulbs to give to members of our community;  and holding our own Cub-Olympics.  We shall be joining in with the extreme fun and games of the County Cub FunDay “Go MAD”, and possibly visiting Legoland.  And next year we may even take part in a Cub version of the big international Scout Jamboree, CubJam – a camp attended by Cubs from throughout Britain, with more activities, events, fun and games than you could dream of.  Does this sound like fun?  Do you want to be a part of it?  Then come along and try us out.  We meet every Tuesday evening during term time between 19:00 and 20:30 in the Scout HQ in Glebe Meadow.  You will be warmly welcomed!                                   JOANNA FYSON,   AKELA   01662 814980

WILL YOU HELP ME RAISE MONEY

TO HELP TERMINALLY ILL CHILDREN?

On behalf of Demelza House Children’s Hospice, Sittingbourne, I am undertaking a trek in the Himalayas in India in June 2005.  I am putting in my own costs but also want to raise as much money as possible for this incredibly worthy charity.  On Sunday, 10^th October we are holding a “Bring and Buy sale” at home, 27 Mill Lane, from 11am-3pm.  The idea is to come along, bring a friend and anything you would like to donate to the sale and then buy from the wonderful selection of “goodies” that will be on offer.  We will go ahead whatever the weather….we just need you!!  Tea and buns also available.

I am also holding a raffle and the prize is “a totally hassle-free dinner (or lunch) party.  A friend and I will come to your house and cook a meal for up to 6 people.  If you prefer to “dine out” you can come to 27 Mill Lane.  Choice of date and menu.  All food included in the prize.  Tickets £5 each.  Please, please take part and help Demelza House to keep helping those children. Please call me for further information or raffle tickets.  Thank you so much – CHRISTINE THOMAS - 27 Mill Lane, -  01622 816728

HISTORY SOCIETY

On 15^th September we started our new season with a very interesting talk by Roy Ingleton on the History of Policing in Kent. The talk was accompanied by slide illustrations and artefacts from the police museum. It took us from Anglo Saxon times, through the various changes that have been introduced throughout the centuries, to the formation of our present day police force.  During the talk Roy had explained that in Anglo Saxon times policing was the responsibility of a Borsholder, who was appointed by the local community to help keep law and order. The term Borsholder was still in use until fairly recent times and each Borsholder was given a staff, called a Dumb Borsholder, as a badge of office.

Next month on 20th October at 7.50pm in the village hall our speaker will be Alan Moore, whose subject is The History of Silversmithing which will also include hallmarking.

ADVICE PAGE article supplied by

MALLING CITIZENS’ ADVICE BUREAU AT 9 HIGH STREET, WEST MALLING, TEL 01732 845501

For help on any subject please don’t hesitate to contact the Malling CAB

Question - My mother is in her mid 80s and lives alone. Over recent weeks she's had several people turning up at the door trying to sell things, and usually she has ended up buying things that she doesn't want and can't really afford either. Can you give me any tips as to how I can help her deal with an unwanted salesperson.

 Answer - Although doorstep selling can be a convenient way of making purchases, it sounds as though your mother is being pressured into buying things at her doorstep as a result of a salesperson using clever selling tactics.  Recently the Office of Fair Trading launched a campaign called "Your doorstep, your decision". The idea behind this was to warn people of the way in which door to door salesmen and women operate.  

Lots of people find it hard to resist a salesperson on the doorstep, so your mother is not alone. She should remember though that the job of the salesperson is to get a sale, and they will use various tactics in order to achieve that. They aim to take control of the conversation. They might, for example, come into your living room and turn off the TV if it is on. If you do not object to this and tell them to leave straight away, they are half way to making a sale.

A common approach is to offer a discount that is only available if you sign up there and then. Alternatively, they may be offering you a prize so that you feel indebted to them. They may ask questions about you and your family, or may tell you that neighbours have bought the same product from them. They may also say that someone well known has endorsed the product to make you feel reassured. The important thing to remember is that you don't have to invite anyone into your home, and that the salesperson is carrying out a business transaction, not a friendly social call. You need to focus on whether what they are selling is something that is right for you. You may well want to shop around and compare prices, so never be pushed into making up your mind and signing a contract on the spot. You are the person to ask questions, not them, and it is ok to say "NO", and to tell them to leave if you do not want to buy anything.

If a visit is unsolicited (cold calling) you have a "cooling off" period of 7 days in which to cancel any contract you've signed for goods and services above £35 in value, but you'll need to act fast if you change your mind. Always put things in writing - keep a copy. If you've asked someone to call you not have these cancellation rights, so it is vital that you do not sign anything unless you are certain that the product or service is what you want and at a price that you are happy with

If your mother is bothered by people phoning up trying to sell things she can contact the Telephone Preference Service. This service is free, and it stops unsolicited calls which may lead to unwanted visits. To register, call 020 7291 3320, or you can do it online at www.tpsonline.org.uk/tps

MAIDSTONE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The next concert will be on Saturday 16 October at 7.30pm in Mote Hall, Mote Park.  The programme consists of four works – Respighi The Pines of Rome, Copin Piano Concerto No 1, Debussy Prelude a l’apres-midi d’un faune and Janacek Sinfonietta.  Bookings  from 01622 736392 or direct from Mote Hall

POSADA

Posada is the Spanish word for Inn.  Posada celebrations originated in Mexico where two young people were chosen to dress as Mary and Joseph.  They would travel from house to house around their village telling people about the imminent arrival of Jesus and asking if they would offer him a room for the night.  In keeping with this tradition the church have wooden nativity figures of Mary and Joseph and would like people in the parish to give them a home for  each night Advent.  The figures will travel round the village from home to home arriving in church on Christmas Eve.  If you would like to give them a room for one night, please contact Joy Searle on 01622 814443