Cranbrook & Sissinghurst Parish Council – September 2011

Councillor’s Contact Numbers

Councillor Mrs Beryl Bancroft Tel: 01580 715382

Councillor Mrs. Alison Bunyan Tel: 01580 713831

Councillor David Cook Tel: 01580 713310

Councillor Kim Fletcher Tel: 01580 712348

Councillor Peter Goodchild Tel: 01580 712505

Councillor David Hazlewood Tel: 01580 714395

Councillor Denis Hemsted Tel: 01580 720450

Councillor Steve Holdom Tel: 07980120850

Councillor Graham Holmes Tel: 01580 712653

Councillor Simon macLachlan Tel: 01580 714387

Councillor Mrs. Anne Marley Tel: 01580 713240

Councillor Peter North Chairman Tel: 01580 714174

Councillor Francis Rook Tel: 01580 713169

Councillor Brian Swann Vice Chairman Tel: 01580 712732

Councillor Mrs Bridget Veitch Tel: 01580 715247

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council:Councillor Linda Hall (Benenden & Cranbrook) Tel: 01580 213468Councillor Sean Holden (Benenden & Cranbrook) Tel: 01580 714880Councillor Francis Rook (Benenden & Cranbrook) Tel: 01580 713169Councillor John Smith (Frittenden & Sissinghurst) Tel: 01580 712898

Kent County Council:Councillor Roger Manning Tel: 01580 240644

1

REPORT FROM THE CHAIRMAN:Chairman Cllr. Peter North

Car Parking with Cranbrook; this problem seems to be going on forever but make no mistake we are continuing to negotiate with the Borough Council, who I must say are being very helpful.

Briefly the situation is that the Cabinet member with responsibility for Borough parking is Cllr. Brian Ransley. He has recognised the importance of free parking to the commercial life of the town and has suggested that the Parish Council examine the possibility of taking over the running of our three car parks (Regal, Tanyard and Jockey Lane).

This we are currently doing, in particular we are to examine the cost to the Parish as a whole. If taking over car parks and retaining their current free status is likely to considerably increase the precept, and then I believe residents and businesses within the Parish should have the final word. There will after all potentially be a cost to every council tax payer within the Parish.

There is a lot of work to be done and you will be kept informed.

You will have no doubt noticed that the demolition of the Old Borough Offices at the top of the High Street is complete. We now await sight of the proposals to replace the offices with houses.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

POLICY & RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT:Chairman Cllr. Brian Swann

The members of this Committee (who are chaperones of their own committees) have been busy over the past few months and most of the items we discuss are passed to the appropriate committee for decisions. Details are given under the separate committee reports.

Items covered by us have included:

Gates at the Golford Cemetery – Quotes for the replacement of the broken gates were agreed.

The Old TWBC Council Offices Site – We were pleased that the demolition had at long last taken place and the site is now neat and tidy. No definite plans for its use have so far been presented.

2

Parish Plan - Some discussions took place about this in light of the Localism Bill in Parliament and the Introduction of Neighbourhood Plans. Please see the Economic & Community Development Report.

Annual Accounts for Year Ending 31 st March 2011 – These were discussed and approved by the Committee and passed to the Full Council before being sent to the District Auditor’s Office for signing off. To date we have not received any comments from them. Once they are signed off they will be available for public inspection.

I would like to remind everyone of the Parish Council Website www.cranbrookandsissinghurstpc.co.uk, which contains minutes of all our Committees (also available in paper form) and much, much more about Cranbrook.

If you would like up to date information sent to you by email, please sign up for our ‘Be in the Know’ service by completing the form on our website or by telephoning or calling into the Parish Office with your email details.

BURIAL GROUNDS AND PROPERTIES:Chairman Cllr. Denis Hemsted

We shall soon have new entrance gates to the Golford Cemetery, as it was decided that the old ones were beyond repair. The new ones have been crafted by British Gates, and we shall all look forward to seeing them in place.

There is to be a new bench in Sissinghurst Cemetery to commemorate the Bun Penny Club; this will replace the old one that fell apart. The original plaque was rescued from the old bench and will be put onto the new one.

Whilst on the subject of Sissinghurst Cemetery, it was decided at the last meeting of this Committee, that as the cross centre path and the path from the north side to the middle path were breaking up rather badly, we should obtain quotes for resurfacing, which has been budgeted for.

Another new bench seat has also been ordered to be put in place at the bus stop near Cleavers.

3

GOLFORD CHAPEL 2011

The Chapel will be open on the following days from 10.00am to 4.00pm:

Remembrance Sunday – 13th November

Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day24th, 25th and 26th December

New Year’s Day – 1st January 2012

For private openings please contact the Clerk, who will be happy to arrange this for you.

ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:Chairman Cllr. Graham Holmes

It was not entirely unexpected to receive a cutting from a national newspaper declaring that Cranbrook suffered the slowest Broadband speed in the country. As if we needed to be reminded! It was not entirely clear how accurate this information was, but it will only serve to strengthen our case for the introduction of High Speed Broadband to the Town. Cllr. Kim Fletcher is heading our task force since it is anticipated that further monies are being made available by Kent County Council for another round of bids from interested towns/villages.

Under its Section 137 remit, the Committee was pleased to confirm an application from Cranbrook Bowls Club for a contribution towards the purchase of some junior bowls equipment. We were delighted to assist an organisation that aims to encourage young people to become involved in sport in our community.

We supported the Weald Business Association’s recent open meeting on the subject of “Succeeding in Business during the Recession”. Five guest panelists were on hand to answer a wide variety of questions from the audience of local business people. A further meeting is scheduled for October when the subject will be employment law and human resource issues. This can be a tricky area for the unwary and local employers are encouraged to come along. Details will appear on the WBA website in due course.

4

We continue to offer help and support to the Cranbrook & Weald Tourism and Economic Forum. Among the projects scheduled for the coming year are a revised set of leaflets for visitors to the Town and its surrounding attractions. The Forum is also considering possible sites for more heritage plaques in and around the Town and the placement of some new public benches. The Forum was very disappointed that it was unable to promote Art in Store this year. Work is now in hand to find local people, with the right skills, to help organise the 2012 event.

Lastly, it has been decided to temporarily suspend work on the Parish Plan. The imminent Localism Bill will contain a number of proposals that will have a direct bearing on how local communities conduct their affairs. It is considered that it would be prudent to await the passing of this legislation before carrying out further work on the Plan.

BROADBAND UPDATECllr. Kim Fletcher

Good News!

The Cranbrook Exchange has been ‘unbundled’ and a colleague now receives 7Mb per second, rather than the 1.5 he received before through Talk Talk. We are trying to find out if any other providers are offering services. This is at last a move in the right direction.

BT has announced the next wave of fibre enabled exchanges…. and we are unfortunately not in there. BT have a huge investment programme to make, and finding the right person to speak to regarding when we might get ADSL is very difficult. If anyone reading this can help us please contact me, as we need to get some leverage in the right area to speed up the switchover.

You may remember that Goudhurst were awarded the first £100,000 grant from KCC to speed up their broadband. We have been talking to their broadband group (called the Golden Thread) as they have a lot of technical expertise. They are still investigating how to deliver high speed broadband to all their parishioners, and with the speed of change in technology, new possibilities arise.One of these possibilities would be to put a mast up on the Glassenbury Road and broadcast broadband across the Weald. This can only happen once all of our televisions have gone digital – the old 625 line transmitters will all be switched off by June 30th next year - so you will have to retune your televisions at that time. This will leave some bandwidth for a scheme described above.

5

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT:Chairman Cllr. Francis Rook

In our September meeting I gave a report on a meeting I attended at KCC Maidstone. Many subjects were discussed, Planning, Highways, Winter Weather issues and Railways.

With regard to highways it was revealed that there was to be another reorganisation, the third in five years. The previous contract unfortunately led to very high costs as returns to repair highways were charged for over and over again. The new contract will be a price for a guaranteed job, with returns being at the contractor’s expense. This should lead to better roads, less pot holes saving broken wheels and a more pleasant journey.

There is a new website with a map showing when and where roadworks are being or scheduled to be done. Don't forget to report faulty roads direct to KCC or via the Parish Council office.

It was very interesting to hear that pedestrians would be better accommodated in future plans of housing developments as well as wild life with the hope of arresting the decline of species such as sparrows. These new protocols were released on 1st June in a document entitled Rural Streets and Lanes Design Handbook, available from KCC.

It was also stated that rural buses would be given greater priority; however this tends to bely the facts as bus routes are cut which tends one to believe that such briefings are for political purposes rather than imparting unimpeachable information.

Last winter was the worst for 100 years and to stretch the road salt further more sand was mixed with it which had a negative effect reducing the efficacy of the salt and when the snow finally cleared, the remaining sand blocked the drains and gullies. This just goes to show that taking the cheapest option can backfire with unforeseen ongoing costs.

Still one little gem was that if you clear the snow from the pavement you cannot be sued if someone slips up, allegedly. Plus with winter in mind if you have a 4 x 4 and would like to help on snow covered roads volunteers are always needed for hospital runs etc.

Finally a big Thank You to all those who have wished Ann and I congratulations on our marriage in August.

6

PARKING SUB-COMMITTEEChairman Cllr. Anne Marley

We would like to thank the Courier Newspaper for their support to keep free parking in Cranbrook, and also thank the Town’s businesses for their support. This Committee had a recent meeting held on 2nd August 2011. We are still talking with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in respect of the free parking issue.

PLANNING & PRESERVATION MANAGEMENT:Chairman Cllr. Alison Bunyan

Affordable Housing.There is nothing new to report yet, but negotiations are continuing on the site next to Sissinghurst’s new school.

The Village Green Application for the Longfield site in Cranbrook – where we were planning to build 30 homes – has been delayed until at least March 2012 because of huge numbers of Village Green Applications. There is only a finite amount of officer time and certainly no bottomless pit of money to pay for the work that the local authority has put in.It is quite interesting to read the new proposals for village green applications, which may become law next spring. In those proposals the Longfield would not be eligible to become a Village Green on at least two accounts: 1. That it is not open and 2. That there was a planning application pending.

MORE PARISH NEWS

CRANBROOK VOLUNTARY CAR SERVICE

AN URGENT APPEAL FOR DRIVERS

This service is available to transport people who are unable to drive or use public transport to attend appointments to local hospitals, doctors, opticians, dentists or clinics.

If you can spare an hour or two occasionally (you are always free to say no if it is inconvenient) we would love to hear from you. Fuel expenses will be covered.

To find out more please contact:Dave Campbell on 01580 714373 or Evelyn Fishenden on 01580 713386

7

Operation Yuletide 5 [2011/12]

Yes - it's time to start collecting again for our troops in Afghanistan!

This year Angley School hopes to send gifts to about 150 troops in

lPWRR and the Rifles.Items we need are:• Andrex 'On the Go' pocket size toilet rolls! (A big morale booster I'm reliably informed!) or wipes• Boiled sweets, chewy sweets, chewing gum• Face and hand wipes, hand cleansing gel• Cereal bars, small Christmas cakes, chocolate (to send later!)• Toothpaste, shower gel, shaving oil, lip salve• Sudoko, crossword, wordsearch magazines, games• Magazines on health and sport• Moisturising cream, E45 cream, talc, deodorant• Pringles, salted nuts, dried fruit, small tins of fish (for those on a Patrol Base)• A card or letter with your own message• Sachets of coffee, soup and hot chocolate

PLEASE NO GLASS ITEMS, TINS OR PRESSURISED SPRAY CANS. We need to have everything packed and posted by the end of November. And we start collecting mid-September. Please leave your gifts at Sladen Wines, The Weald Information Centre or Angley School Reception

THANK YOU CRANBROOK AND THE WEALD!

8

ST DUNSTAN’S CHURCH TOWERBrian Swann

The Church Tower, after considerable repairs and improvements to the stairwell and roof, is now open to everyone in the Town and all visitors and tourists.

From the top of the Tower, there are magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and the many interesting buildings in the Town, the differing roof shapes, the alleyways and trees that make Cranbrook the town that it is. Do come and climb the 88 steps to the top (there are two rooms to rest in on the way up) and you will be amazed at what you can see. Your visit will help to raise funds for repairs so urgently needed to the face of the sandstone that the church is built from. The Tower by the way, is in no danger of falling down, but we need to preserve it for future generations.

The Tower is open on Saturday mornings from 10am to 1pm until the end of October and will then re-open in March next year.

AUCTION OF PROMISESBrian Swann

An Auction of Promises is to be held in aid of the St. Dunstan’s Tower Appeal on Saturday 12th November 2011 at 7.30 pm in Cranbrook School. Tickets cost £15 and include supper. To purchase tickets contact Sandra on 01580 715764 or email sam.marsh1@btopenworld.com

CRANBROOK APPLE & HISTORY FAYREPhillip Mummery

The 5th annual Cranbrook Apple & History Fayre is on Saturday, 29th October 2011, from 10.00am until 4.00pm.

The attractions will be held in the centre of Cranbrook and will include : Apple Press (bring a few of your own apples), Morris Dancers, Hog Roast, Toffee Apples, Jazz Bands, Craft Fair, Street Entertainment, The Red Barrows, Street Stalls, 1415 Company of Archers, Lucky Apple Competition for the children, Historic Vehicles and much more besides.

The Windmill and the Museum will also be open.

A fun day for all the family!

For more information contact:Stuart 01580 713238 or email: springden@btinternet.com

9

Phil 01580 713072 or email pv.mummery@virgin.netCRANBROOK IN BLOOM Trisha Fermor What a year and it isn't over yet! Although we did not enter the town for the South and South East in Bloom competition this year, having reaped a Gold in 2010, we did enter the Forge Orchard and the Mad Hatters gang for the Neighbourhood Awards. We were delighted when the Orchard Group got a "Thriving" Award (just one down from the top award) and the gang picked up an "Improving" Certificate. Well done to everyone who took part in both entries.

Maureen Leah, Bob Truman and Trisha Fermor went to the S&SEIB presentation lunch at Fontwell Park Racecourse, Sussex, and had a pleasant time meeting like-minded people and accepting the awards.

Many thanks to everyone who was involved in the mosaic seat which now makes the area by the public lavatories so much nicer. It is a fine example of the community working together to improve what was a vandal-ridden eyesore!

CiB was involved in the Kent High Weald Partnership's 20th Anniversary celebrations in the Crane Valley and even supplied some apple wares including crumbles and pies to sell, using the delicious apples from the orchard. We now have permission from the borough council to take down the unsightly Leylandii trees along the Waterloo Road boundary which will let in more light for the fruit trees.

Please come and support the Apple and Craft Fair in the Town on 29 October from 10am to 4pm in the Vestry Hall and various venues around the town where CiB will be much in evidence!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO JOIN, OR SET UP, A COMMUNITYFUEL-BUYING CONSORTIUM?

Following the creation of a successful community fuel-buying consortium by the Oxfordshire Rural Community Council, we are looking to see if there would be interest in setting up something similar in parts of rural Kent not already served by local fuel-buying consortia. The consortium in Oxfordshire has been able to bulk-buy fuel for rural communities, and thus reduce fuel bills to people in parts of the county without mains gas. If you would like to see something similar in your part of rural Kent, or would simply like to know more about the Oxfordshire model, please contact us on 01303-813790 or by e-mail at info@ruralkent.org.uk

Miranda HayesDirector of Finance & Resources

10

Action with Communities in Rural Kent

SISSINGHURST ISSUESDenis Hemsted

The question of the addition of an extra litter bin on the north side of The Street is still being asked about. In the April 2010 edition of the Parish Council Newsletter, I wrote “Unfortunately I cannot see an appropriate place to site one, but if anyone has a positive idea it will be looked into again.” No ideas were forthcoming!

Another consideration is that it costs money not only for the supply and installation, but also the emptying which, of course, is ongoing. In this age of cutbacks we need to think twice.

A thought – if people did not drop litter there would be no need to pick it up. People still drop litter on the south side of The Street even though there is a litter bin.

BollardsKCC are well aware of the broken bollards along by The Scarlet Feather Florists. They collected the broken pieces from my garage and at the same time were told that it was a Spar lorry which had hit them, they were also given the registration number of the vehicle involved. These three bollards can certainly be replaced, hopefully by the same type of bollard as used on the corner of Common Road which, I understand, is some form of plastic.

Whether we could obtain any additional posts is debatable. It is very difficult to cater for bad and dangerous driving, i.e. driving onto a pavement.

Drop KerbThe request for a drop kerb on the west side of Common Road near to Milkhouse Cottages is still ongoing. We have contacted Roger Manning our local KCC Member to fund the scheme, but despite various communications, to date, there has been no reply. We still wait in hope.

Sissinghurst SignThe original Sissinghurst Village sign, which was removed from Common Road when the new signage was put in place, is in my care. It is to be re-painted and then re-sited.

It has been suggested that it should be placed along the road from the roundabout into the village, possibly near to the cricket ground. Comments would be welcome.

11

MORE NEWS FROM SISSINGHURSTBeryl Bancroft

The Parish Council has been informed that the Post Office in the village shop is expected to reopen within the next few weeks. The post office closure has caused considerable difficulties particularly for the elderly. In the meantime local councillors have arranged for transport to be available for those unable to reach alternative post offices.

The new school signs in Common Road have been damaged. Hopefully they will be replaced soon.

We are working to have the old school signs and warning lights on The Street removed as soon as possible.

BIRDS IN SISSINGHURSTAlan Pavey

I always think we are very lucky to live in this little area of Kent, despite increasing traffic and houses etc., we have Hemsted Forest and Bedgebury Pinetum and Forest to name a few, right on our doorstep, for walking and riding and generally enjoying.

I live in Sissinghurst and have done most of my life; my interest in birds has taken me to more places than I could have imagined, but I still find my walks around Sissinghurst Castle as pleasing as any and the variety of birds to be found can be quite surprising.

In 1997 I started logging the different species that I have seen and so far over 140 different species have put in an appearance. In the early days flocks of TREE SPARROWS were regular every winter and HAWFINCH, although not common, were seen in several months each year. Now if these birds are seen more than once each year it’s been a success. On the other side of the coin, birds that have increased include LITTLE EGRETS, which are now regular in winter, and COMMON BUZZARDS are a soar away success (every pun intended).

This year started with an influx of WAXWINGS to the country, a stunning beige bird with a crest, a yellow bar on the tail and tiny little red teardrop shapes in its wing. We were lucky to have these visit Sissinghurst on more than one occasion, the first one of the year being seen on 1st January. The winter was quite eventful, there were 2 FIRECREST in Bull and Birches, a JACK SNIPE was with 14 COMMON SNIPE in fields next to the entrance lane.

12

My favourite birds have got to be birds of prey. During the winter we had regular PEREGRINE FALCON sightings of two different birds, a MARSH HARRIER was an unexpected surprise on 18th January, then a RED KITE followed in March (22nd). April wasn’t to be out done and turned up an OSPREY flying north on the morning of 14th April.

April also produced the bird of the year so far, when a friend of mine found a HOOPOE, normally found further south in Europe. It flew into one of the large Oaks in the field above the car park. There were a couple of these bright orange visitors, with black and white striped wings, that were found in Kent around the same time - I eventually saw this bird nearly three weeks later.

While all these unusual birds were turning up, our regular summer birds were settling in. NIGHTINGALE, WHITETHROAT, BLACKCAP and the repetitive CHIFFCHAFF were all making themselves heard, with the occasional CUCKOO thrown in for good measure.

Our resident birds were also making themselves busy; YELLOWHAMMER and SKYLARK had a good breeding season and are now starting to flock in and around the fields and hedges. NUTHATCHES, TREECREEPERS and GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKERS have also done well in the woods.

The lakes on the north side of Roundshill Wood can also be quite productive. KINGFISHER has been regular for the last month or so and the young GREY HERONS are starting to find a few of the many Rudd that the lake holds.

The first signs of autumn are now well and truly upon us - for me another really exciting time. SWALLOWS and HOUSE MARTINS are leaving, making their way south and the first SISKIN arrived for the winter on 10th September. It flew over while we were taking a guided walk at the Castle and at the same time a HOBBY, another bird leaving our shores which chases the Swallows and Martins, flew overhead, and a LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER was seen flying from the top of an Oak, a very exciting few minutes!

Other autumn records have included GRASSHOPPER WARBLERS, SEDGE WARBLERS, WHINCHAT, WHEATEAR and COMMON REDSTART.

I wonder what the winter will bring.

13

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

OCTOBERSaturday 1st St Dunstan’s Church Harvest Festival Barn DanceSaturday 1st Trinity Church, Sissinghurst, Harvest Supper and Barn

Dance in Sissinghurst School Hall 6.30pmSaturday 1st } Cranbrook Music Festival 2011And Sunday 2nd }Wednesday 5th Coffee Morning/Bring & Buy 10.00am, Parish Room,

SissinghurstFriday 7th Weald U3A, Vestry Hall 2.00pm to 6.00pmSaturday 8th A Night at the Opera, St Dunstan’s Church 7.30pmSaturday 22nd Cranbrook Farmers’ Market, Vestry Hall, 9.00am to 12 noonMonday 24th CranARA, Vestry Hall, 2.15pmSaturday 29th Cranbrook in Bloom Craft Fayre, Vestry HallSaturday 29th Cranbrook Apple & History Fayre – 10.00am to 4.00pmMonday 31st St Dunstan’s Church Real Halloween party

NOVEMBERSaturday 12th Colliers Green Primary School Autumn Fair,

Vestry Hall 10.00am to 1.00pmSaturday 12th Cranbrook Scouts Quiz Evening, Vestry HallSaturday 12th Auction of Promises in aid of St Dunstan’s Tower Appeal

7.30pm at Cranbrook SchoolWednesday 16th } Cranbrook Art Show, Vestry HallTo Saturday 19th }Monday 21st CranARA, Vestry Hall 2.15pmSaturday 26th Cranbrook Farmers’ Market, Vestry Hall, 9.00am to 12 noonSaturday 26th Cranbrook Bowls Club Race Night, Vestry Hall 7 pm – 11. 7.00pm to 10.45pm

DECEMBERSaturday 3rd Kitsch & Stitch Craft Fair, Vestry Hall, 10.00am to 3.00pmSaturday 10th Cranbrook Choral Society Concert, St Dunstan’s ChurchSaturday 17th Cranbrook Farmers’ Market, Vestry Hall 9.00am to 12 noonMonday 19th CranARA, Vestry Hall 2.15pm

14

UNFORSEEN CONSEQUENCES Cllr.Graham Holmes

During the early days of the Battle of Britain, an incident occurred on the 15 th

August 1940 that was to have consequences far beyond the original intentions of the mission. A very brief description of the mission was given in this Newsletter in December 2005, but it is now time to go into more detail.

In order to evaluate the potential of the, yet to be delivered Messerschmitt 210, the Luftwaffe created a unit which carried the name of Erprobungsgruppe 210 (literally Experimental Test Wing 210). That was the theory. In practice, the unit became a self contained squadron operating both the Messerschmitt Bf109 and Bf110 as a fighter bomber or JagdBomber (Jabo) as they were known. Despite the objective of developing fighter bomber tactics, the crews were by no means handpicked for their above average flying skills and were drawn from a variety of existing units. Aircraft too, were transferred from elsewhere although some of the Bf109E-4B types were new and fitted with external bomb racks on delivery to Erpro 210. Upon its formation in July 1940 training began immediately with a particular emphasis on precision dive bombing of selected targets, under the command of Hauptmann (Flight Lieutenant) Walter Rubensdorffer.

After commissioning, the unit took up residence at Denain in Northern France, but generally operated from the forward airfield at Calais – Marck. Its aircraft were split into three staffeln, or squadrons, plus a staff flight, consisting of Bf109E-4’s and Bf110C-4B’s. Erpro 210’s emblem, painted just below the cockpit canopy depicted the cross hairs of a bombsight superimposed on a red map of the British Isles.

Thursday 15th August was to go down in the unit’s history as “Black Thursday”.

On that fateful day, the Meteorologists at Luftlotte 2 Headquarters in Brussels were predicting that conditions over the Channel would be poor but a ridge of high pressure would move in bringing fine weather later. As a result, operations were postponed until the promised improvements arrived. At 15.00hrs, 16 Bf110’s of Erpro 210 took off and took part in a particularly heavy attack on the RAF airfield at Martlesham Heath causing extensive damage to buildings and workshops. Whilst this mission was in progress, further orders arrived informing the unit that they would be taking part in an attack on the RAF Fighter Command airfield at Kenley, south of London. Simultaneously, a further attack would target Biggin Hill, also part of Fighter Command. The overall plan was simple. A force of Dornier Do17Z bombers of Kampgeschwader 76 would target Biggin Hill accompanied by an escort of Bf109 fighters of Jagdgeschwader 26. This would draw Fighter Command into the air, at which

15

point Erpro 210 would undertake a dive bombing attack on Kenley. Their escorts would be Bf 109’s of Jagdgeschwader 52.At approximately 18.00hrs, the Bf110’s of Erprobungsgruppe 210 took of from Calais – Marck. Among the crews were pilot Oberleutnant Alfred Habisch and his Bordfunker (wireless operator/gunner) Unteroffizier Ernst Eifner. Both would later find themselves making an unscheduled visit to Hawkhurst. The attack would be led by the commander, Walter Rubensdorffer, himself. He too would not be returning.

The first intimation that this mission might not be a success came when Erpro210’s fighter escort failed to appear. This did not deter Rubensdorffer and he gave instructions that the attack would go ahead, with or without fighter escort. To avoid the prying eyes of the south east coast radar stations, the unit descended to low level and streaked across the Channel making landfall at Dungeness. In order to reach the target by the most direct route, the aircraft, in all probability, flew over Cranbrook and headed for Sevenoaks and up over the Downs. Flying low into the setting sun, the unit now created a second problem. Instead of heading for Kenley the aircraft were now, in fact, approaching Croydon. Pilots confused, no doubt, by the low sun. Yet another mistake occurred when the formation of Dorniers attacked West Malling instead of Kenley. This was a vital error since the confusion caused by the higher raid coming in was intended to allow Erpro210 to slip in unnoticed, but the defenders were wide awake and No.111 Squadron’s Hurricane’s were already airborne. Rubensdorffer was now diving on Croydon, puzzled by the lack of anti aircraft fire from the ground. The attack was straight out of the text book and a considerable number of airfield buildings were destroyed. Unfortunately, and perhaps unavoidably, a number of houses and factories in the surrounding area were damaged and there were civilian casualties. Bombing civilian targets was in clear breach of Hitler’s instructions at this stage of the war.

The Hurricanes of No.111 Squadron now had Erpro210 at its mercy and, assisted by Hurricane’s from No.32 Squadron, they waded into the enemy aircraft. Squadron Leader John Thompson selected a fleeing Messerschmitt Bf110 and gave chase. He fired a number of bursts from his Browning machine guns but found his adversary very skilful in carrying out evasive manoeuvres and the chase continued into the Sussex countryside. Eventually, with one of its engines on fire, the Bf110 reared up and, turned over and plunged to earth, crashing near Rotherfield. The pilot who died along with his wireless operator/gunner, was none other than Haptmann Walter Rubensdorffer. Meanwhile, the Bf110 of Habisch and Eifner had sustained a number of hits over the target area and Habisch was having such trouble keeping the aircraft stable that he decided that the only course left open was to attempt a belly landing. Approaching Hawkhurst from the north, he successfully brought the aircraft down in a field with very little damage. The local Home Guard unit were quickly on the scene and both Habisch and Eifner were led away to begin life as

16

POW’s. After a short stay in this country, both airmen were transferred to a camp in Canada, where they sat out the war.

Their aircraft was removed and put on display at RAF Hendon, after it had been carefully examined by experts. Eventually it was taken to the United States for further evaluation.

In all Erprobungsgruppe210 had lost a total of ten aircraft during the attack, in addition to their commander. Not surprisingly, the unit henceforth described the 15th August as “Black Thursday”.

When he eventually received reports of the attack, Hitler was furious. His instructions were clear and they had been disobeyed and he no doubt contemplated Churchill’s reaction. He did not have to wait long. A few nights later a small force of aircraft from Bomber Command set out to attack Berlin. The bombs actually fell in the suburbs, but this was sufficient for Hitler to issue orders that London was to be mercilessly bombed and which became the precursor of the London Blitz.

LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKETSCranbrook Farmers’ Market

Held on the fourth Saturday of every month in the Vestry Hall between 9.00 am and 12.00 noon

and has a wide selection of fresh produce by local providers. For further details, please contact

John and Anne Gurr – telephone 01580 713843.

Sissinghurst Farmers’ Market Held on the Second Monday of every month at

Sissinghurst Castle Gardens in the Elizabethan Barn now between midday and 3pm

Your chance to buy fresh local produce including fruit and vegetables, cheese, meat, bread and cakes, wine and fruit juice and preserves.

Parking is free on Farmers’ Market Monday’s.

17

KENT COUNTY COUNCIL/KENT COUNTY CONSTABULARYRURAL PARTNERSHIP

Emergency Services – Police, Fire & Ambulance Service – 999 (or 112)For calls where Life and Property are in danger. When a crime is being committed. When there is a Road Traffic Collision and there is serious injury.

Non-Emergency – Police – 01622 690690To report a suspicious incident. To report a problem that you cannot resolve and you think it involves the Police. To report community issues that require Police attendance, e.g. (Anti-social behaviour, nuisance motor bikes). Lost & found property.

To Report A Crime – 01622 690690To report a crime that has happened to you and the offenders have gone, e.g. Car damaged or shed broken into overnight). You can also report minor crime (non-urgent crime notification) via the Internet at www.kent.police.uk.

Crime Stoppers- 0800 555111If you have any information about any crime. Calls are free and totally anonymous and you could be eligible for an award.

Town Centre Constable – Cranbrook –PC David HulmeMobile 07870 252949 or 01580 711000

Police Community Support Officer – PCSO Lori Ham Mobile 07772226075

KCC Community Warden Cranbrook - Area Supervisor - Nigel Freeman 07969 584175Sissinghurst – Adam Osbourn – Mobile 07813695741

Neighbourhood Watch Area Co-Ordinator – 01580 711004For information on setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme please contact the above number or e mail carey.amor@kent.pnn.police.uk

18

HISTORY MATTERSCranbrook Canada – A Brief AssessmentPaul Donovan, Cranbrook Museum

The town of Cranbrook in British Columbia was incorporated in 1905, with a population of about 1,200 citizens. By the time of their centenary celebrations in 2005 the population had risen to 20,000 but the town was central to a wider community of some 60,000. Previously the territory had been the home to the KTUNAXA people for over 10,000 years.

Cranbrook B.C. prospered after the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway line in August 1898, which followed years of dispute and negotiation with the ethnic residents over land ownership. Readers may notice a coincidence of date with that of the opening of the station at Hartley to serve our town in Kent, a rather more modest piece of engineering.

So, how did the Cranbrook situated in the Rocky Mountains come to acquire its name? The official historians there have produced many publications over the years, all recording the adventures of Colonel James Baker, son of Samuel Baker, a successful merchant in the West Indies. James was born in London on 6th January 1830, was educated at the Collegiate School in Gloucester, gained a B.A. at Cambridge in 1861 and an M.A. in 1864. In 1855 he married Sarah Louise White but, at the age of 35, he left the academic world by enrolling in the Indian Navy with whom he surveyed the Arabian coast and attempted to suppress the slave trade. A few years later he transferred to the British Army, joining the 8th Hussars and fighting in the Crimea. He retired in 1875 aged 45, and after a spell in London working for the Duke of Westminster, he took his wife and son to the rugged land of British Columbia.

Within two years he had purchased an existing ranch from a John Galbraith and, after the building burnt down, he rebuilt another on the same spot and named it Cranbrook Farm. He then added a trading store and that small complex that grew into Cranbrook Town. James Baker and his son set about developing the natural assets of the area, particularly coalfields; they purchased more land and then determinedly lobbied the railroad company to develop a connection to Cranbrook in order to transport their coal and other goods to the east and the west. Success assured the prosperity of the town and the area and Cranbrook eventually became a railway junction for two main lines as they progressed towards the Pacific coast.

More recently Cranbrook B.C. in its picturesque setting at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, became the home of the Canadian Museum of Rail Travel, attracting visitors to the museum and the many outdoor activities on offer in the locality. Many streets and buildings carry the Baker name as tributes to one of their founding fathers.

19

Colonel James Baker claimed he had named his original trading post Cranbrook, after his ancestral home in Kent – supposedly Sissinghurst Castle. At that level the legend has lived and flourished since but, so far, no supporting documentary evidence has been discovered here. Sir John Baker, the last owner of Sissinghurst Castle, had no male heir; his three daughters married and took their husbands’ names and titles, which suggests that the Baker name died out when Sir John died in 1661. His widow died thirty years later, after which the property was sold.

Certainly James Baker earned the respect of his fellow citizens in British Columbia for his pioneering spirit, his enterprise and his practical achievements. His official biography records him as a ‘soldier-adventurer, speculator, visionary, politician, businessman, wheeler-dealer, gentleman-rancher and prominent social figure’. A family connection with a notable antecedent in Britain, whether actual or proven, would have been no hindrance to such a career.

So, legendary or history – take your pick. Cranbrook, Kent is delighted to be associated with the highly successful town in British Columbia and honoured to share our name with them. However, should any of the many claimants to the Bakers of Sissinghurst ancestry produce conclusive documentary evidence, the archivists at Cranbrook Museum would be very interested to hear from them.

CRANBROOK PRIMARY SCHOOL

SENIOR CITIZENS LUNCH CLUB

Wednesdays during term time

2 course meal with tea/coffee £4.00

Book the Monday beforePhone 07925324856

20

PARISH WARDEN:Ivor Hatcher

I have recently been walking my collie, Gem through the beautiful countryside that surrounds our town and one thing that has struck me is the abuse of the privilege people have, allowing them to walk through such beauty. What I mean by abuse is that people are not satisfied with keeping to the pathways that have been carved across fields and through woodland by those in past years whose transport was usually Shanks’s Pony. These walkways are registered and mapped out for public use.

There are always those who believe that our countryside is a gift to be enjoyed by all despite much of it being privately owned and in a way they are right; it is for all of us to enjoy.

The problem being is their idea of enjoying their walk is to make holes in the hedges beside locked gates; locked to keep farm stock in or to signify that there is ‘no right of way’! They trample grass which could be being grown for winter fodder for the farmer’s livestock. Dogs are allowed to foul the grass which taints it as feedstuff. The broken hedges and fences look an eyesore. The damage has to be paid for by someone and that usually falls on the landowner. “Yes” I hear some say; “They can afford it!” That may be true in some cases but much of the land is inherited, passed down through the generations who devote their lives to maintaining and farming the land for future generations to enjoy. Sadly, the land often comes with no money other than a nominal income gained from working the land.

So if you want to help preserve our beautiful countryside, please think before you climb a fence or make a hole in the hedge instead of lifting your dog over the stile!

We are coming up to the time of year when we remember those who fought in past and present campaigns in order to give us the freedom to walk freely and live life as we live today. Wooden crosses can be placed in the area in front of The War Memorial with the names of those you wish to remember written on them. The chapel in Golford Cemetery will be open on 11th November, Armistice Day and also on Remembrance Sunday. A book is open in the chapel for visitors to write their reflections or remembrance of those who may have died in conflict.

Men and women laid down their lives for us to enjoy ‘This Green and Pleasant Land’.

Please do not abuse it.

21

TUNBRIDGE WELLS BOROUGH COUNCILTIMETABLE FOR AMENITY REFUSE SCHEME

A Refuse Lorry will be stationed at the locations below for the times shown

Date 8.00 am to 11.00 am 12 noon to 3.00 pmSATURDAY8 OCTOBER2011

SANDHURST - See belowLAMBERHURST - See below

CRANBROOK - Frythe EstateSISSINGHURST - Top of Cleavers

SUNDAY9 OCTOBER2011

FIVE OAK GREEN - Falmouth PlaceGOUDHURST - Balcombe Hill Car ParkHORSMONDEN - Back LanePADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See belowKILNDOWN /CURTISDEN GREEN – See below

SATURDAY15 OCTOBER2011

BENENDEN - Iden Green Crossroads CRANBROOK - Wheatfield Way

SUNDAY16 OCTOBER2011

HORSMONDEN - Back LaneHAWKHURST - Fowlers Park Car ParkBIDBOROUGH - Top of Village Hall Car ParkPADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See below

SATURDAY22 OCTOBER2011

SANDHURST - See BelowLAMBERHURST - See Below

CRANBROOK - Campion CrescentFRITTENDEN - Chestnut Close

SUNDAY23 OCTOBER2011

FIVE OAK GREEN - Falmouth PlaceGOUDHURST - Balcombe Hill Car ParkHORSMONDEN - Back LanePADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See below

SATURDAY29 OCTOBER2011

BENENDEN - Cherryfields CRANBROOK - Swifts View

SUNDAY30 OCTOBER2011

HORSMONDEN - Back LaneHAWKHURST - Fowlers Park Car ParkBIDBOROUGH - Top of Village Hall Car ParkPADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See below

SATURDAY5 NOVEMBER2011

SANDHURST - See belowLAMBERHURST - See below

CRANBROOK - Frythe EstateSISSINGHURST - Top of Cleavers

SUNDAY 6 NOVEMBER2011

FIVE OAK GREEN - Falmouth PlaceGOUDHURST - Balcombe Hill Car ParkHORSMONDEN - Back LanePADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See belowKILNDOWN /CURTISDEN GREEN – See below

SATURDAY12 NOVEMBER2011

BENENDEN - Iden Green Crossroads CRANBROOK - Wheatfield Way

SUNDAY13 NOVEMBER2011

HORSMONDEN - Back LaneHAWKHURST - Fowlers Park Car ParkBIDBOROUGH - Top of Village Hall Car ParkPADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See below

SATURDAY19 NOVEMBER2011

SANDHURST –See belowLAMBERHURST – See below

CRANBROOK – Campion CrescentFRITTENDEN – Chestnut Close

SUNDAY20 NOVEMBER2011

FIVE OAK GREEN - Falmouth PlaceGOUDHURST - Balcombe Hill Car ParkHORSMONDEN - Back LanePADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See below PEMBURY - See below

SATURDAY26 NOVEMBER2011

BENENDEN – Village Hall Layby CRANBROOK – Swifts View

SUNDAY27 NOVEMBER2011

HORSMONDEN - Back LaneHAWKHURST- Fowlers Park Car ParkBIDBOROUGH - Top of Village Hall Car ParkPADDOCK WOOD - Commercial Road

MATFIELD - See belowBRENCHLEY - See belowPEMBURY - See below

Pembury : 12.00 - 12.55 Henwood Crescent ) Note : Lorry will be stationed at different13.00 - 13.55 Herons Way ) positions in each road each week14.00 - 15.00 Woodhill Park )

Sandhurst: 08.00 - 08.25 Lomas Lane08.30 - 09.00 Ringle Green09.05 - 09.35 Back Road09.40 - 10.20 Tanyard

10.25 - 11.00 Sandhurst CloseLamberhurst : 08.00 - 09.55 Car Park Memorial Hall

10.00 - 11.00 Sand LaneBrenchley : 12.00 - 13.45 Car Park opposite Brenchley Garage

Matfield : 14.00 - 15.00 Entrance to Village Hall, Matfield Kilndown 12.00 – 13.45 Beresford Close

Curtisden Green 14.00 – 15.00 Outside Bethany School

22

THOUGHTS AND IDEAS FROM THE CLERK:

The end of September has been wonderful and the brilliant sunshine added to the enjoyment of the many people who visited Cranbrook for the Music Festival. The feedback has been very positive. It was fantastic to see the town so vibrant and everyone having fun.

The Apple Fayre, with the Cranbrook in Bloom Craft Fayre in the Vestry Hall is the next event for us all to look forward to. It is on Saturday the 29 th October. I hope the weather will be kind to us for this event. I am already getting enquiries so hopefully it will be a great success.

If anyone has any suggestions on how we can celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations in Cranbrook – there are slips in the Parish Office which you can fill in with your ideas and a box to post them in. The Jubilee Committee is very keen to hear your ideas. They would appreciate any offers of help. Perhaps you could lend a hand on the day? The May bank holiday will move to the 4th June 2012 with an extra bank holiday on the Tuesday 5th June.

On Friday 7th October a meeting for Sissinghurst residents has been arranged by the St. George’s Institute management committee to seek ideas and to decide how the village might celebrate the Diamond Jubilee. The meeting starts at 7.30 pm in St. Georges.

The Art Show will be taking place on the 16 th – 19th November in the Vestry Hall. This annual event brings people into Cranbrook and we hope that visitors appreciate our attractive market town and surrounding villages.

Clerk: Mrs. Coral KirkaldieDeputy Clerk: Mrs. Angela Constable

Newsletter Published by Cranbrook & Sissinghurst Parish CouncilThe Old Fire Station, Stone Street, Cranbrook,

Kent TN17 3HF Telephone 01580 713112 -Fax 01580 713280

Email address: clerk@cranbrookandsissinghurstpc.co.ukwww.cranbrookandsissinghurstpc.co.uk

23