HamstreetCountryShowRegistered Charity No. 296298
2-3 June 2012
Medieval reenactmentFestival of transport - from steam to vintageTug of war (teams welcome)Daring trial and mountain bike displaysDog showReal ale festival with old dairyCountry show stallsExtreme FalconryCircus performersAir displaysBritish lawnmower racing grand prix
www.hamstreetcountryshow.org or call 07899906610Hamstreet Country Show is an event organised by the HDSLA, raising funds for community projects in Hamstreet
Attractions include:
...and so much more - an action packed weekend.
Opening Times:Sat: 10.30am to dusk Sun: 10.30am to 5.00pmAdult day entry: £6.00 day pass or £10.00 for the weekendChildren (5yrs - 14 yrs) and concessions: £3.00 day pass or £5.00 for the weekendFamily ticket 2 adults + 2 children: £15.00 day pass or £25.00 for the weekendFree entry for children under 5 yrs
77
for Aldington
The village directoryMAY
2012
...and surrounding villages...and surrounding villages
Delivered byDelivered byDelivered by
2
G&J’s Private HireBased on the Romney Marsh, (Lydd).
Local and Airport JourneysAdvanced Bookings Taken - Seats up to 6
Please call to arrange
Mobile: 07715 406 672or Email: [email protected]
Start your Journey in a Relaxed Mode.
June Issue Deadline 1st May
Welcome tothe village directory
TAYLOR MAR TINHAIRHAIR
T NR TINFor An Appointment
01233 502719 Closed on Wednesdays
www.taylormartinhairsalon.comwww.taylormartinhairsalon.comNOW ON FACEBOOK - VISIT OUR PAGE FOR OFFERS & DISCOUNTS.
AVatarBuildersHOME IMPROVEMENTS INSIDE & OUT
Tel: 01233 714258Mob: 07845 210 689 Email: [email protected]
Hi everyone,
Spring is here and, as usual at this time of year, we have an abundance of bank holidays to enjoy! May also brings with it more community events so I hope you’re all keen to get involved out in that wonderful Spring sunshine.
For those of us hit by Spring Fever, the long weekends also provide time to clear out, clean up and declutter! I spent most of Easter weekend in our loft, attempting the long awaited clear out! It’s strange how this time of year inspires us in this way, but it feels so good when you achieve your goal, although it may be weeks before we are completely clear of all the hoarded items destined for either Ebay or the Charity Shop. I must admit it felt great when I viewed the new clean space I had created, the loft looked wonderful, the rest of the house is now a tip! I was a little disappointed though that I hadn’t discovered any hidden treasures that might improve my bank balance! The whole process was very therapeutic and far removed from sitting in front of a computer screen for days on end worrying about deadlines!
A big thank you to all the readers that have contributed to Wit & Wisdom this month, I now have enough material to last for some time, so if your contribution hasn’t appeared yet just watch this space, but please be patient as the longer items are more tricky to piece together.
Also, thank you to Alan for pointing out that I hadn’t changed the issue number on last month’s issue, you weren’t going mad, it was defi nitely me!
Have a great month!
~ DebbieT: 01233 720488e:[email protected]:www.thevillagedirectory.co.uke:[email protected]
CAMERAMANIAQuality Photographic Equipment
Old fi lm cameras gathering dust in your loft? Call Harvey to turn them into cash!
01227- 830184Email: [email protected].
3
the garden
4
If your late summer fl owering plants get too top heavy and fl op just as they get round to fl owering, or you end up half heartedly trussing them up with string and broken bits of bamboo cane (always an attractive look), then this year I dare you to try the ‘Chelsea chop’. It is a pruning method that’s best done around the time of the Chelsea fl ower show. It does take some ruthlessness, as it requires cutting back healthy happy plants when it looks like that’s the last thing they need, but by trimming them back by half now, you’ll get sturdier, bushier plants at the end of the summer. It’s hard to do; it feels like you’re irreparably damaging the plants – and it doesn’t work with everything. Perennials that only fl ower once, like Peonies won’t like it at all if you prune them like this. It will work well with things like Sedums, Rudbeckias, Heleniums and Asters. Sedums
By Jo Arnell
MayThe Garden Shed
Glebe Gardening • Maintenance • Planting • Grave Maintenance
• Greenwood Garden Structures • Hedge LayingOAP Rates – Kingsnorth Based
National Certifi cate in HorticultureRing Tom on 01233 623116 or 07751461968
Tel: 01233 840088or Freephone 0800 028 1391
Tarmacadam Contractors
A Multi-trade Company
Tree surgery - Landscaping - Garden WorkDrive-ways & Patios
Tel: 07979 003 291 / 01303 87524630 years Experience - fully insured - www.fabbuilders.com
Fast Aff ordable BuildersF.A.B
y p y
Pest Control ServicesDOMESTIC - COMMERCIAL - INDUSTRIAL
Fast eff ective service forthe removal of all pests.
Family Run - Fully Insured.Authority Approved.
WASPS, BEES, ANTS, FLEAS, FLIES, COCKROACHES, RATS, MICE, MOLES AND SQUIRRELS
Tel: 01303 221008Mobile: 07857 344770
BENSKO
Advertise Here £16 per month plus vat
10% discount on 6 month bookingsEasy monthly payment option available
the gardenare especially prone to splitting and fl opping just as they start fl owering. Save the bits you cut off – the cuttings will readily root and turn into new plants.
You can encourage a repeat fl owering of early summer perennials by cutting them hard back immediately after they’ve fl owered – extreme dead-heading, if you like. Do this with Delphiniums, Lupins, Alchemilla mollis and Geraniums. Hard prune back to the base - the tall fl ower spikes of Lupins and Delphiniums start at ground level. And the Geraniums and Alchemilla will benefi t from a severe haircut, so cut off most of the leaves too. Most will fl ower again later in the summer, with smaller blooms. The Alchemilla may not re-fl ower, but cut back most of the foliage and it will respond with a neat and tidy mound of nice fresh leaves.
Jo Arnell runs Gardening workshops in Woodchurch 01233 861186 www.hornbrookmanor.co.uk
*
UPGRADE& SAVE
£300CASH BACK*ON A GR2120
UPGRADE& SAVE
£200CASH BACK*ON A T1880
UPGRADE& SAVE
£200CASH BACK*ON A GR1600
Sales with Service
Henwood Road, Henwood Ind. Est.Ashford, Kent, TN24 8DH
www.listerwilder.co.uk01233 619 290 * Terms & conditions apply. See our website or contact your local dealer for details
CASHBACKOFFERS
STONE GREEN NURSERIESwww.stonegreennurseries.co.uk
Truly a gardener’s paradise
*Shrubs* Trees* Herbaceous perennials* Climbers* *Ferns*Grasses*& Large plants for an instant impact*
At Stone Green Nurseries you will discover thatwe are passionate about plants. We grow a fantastic range of You can choose your
nowledgeable staff to help answer your questions
plants from our vast selection and direct from their growing beds! You can’t buy fresher. Our broad variety of garden plants are offered to you at fair prices. Should you need help with your selection we also have k
Opening times: Fri 10am -5pm, Sat & Sun 9am - 5pm
Pluckley Road Bethersden TN26 3ET
Future Dates 25th,26th & 27th May 8th,9th &10th
11th,12th & 13th May
Open Weekend
For more detailed directions please use our website.
Follow day-glow signs from A20 at Charing and A28 at Bethersden
We accept most major credit cards
Spend over £25.00 and claim a handyStone Green Nurseries bag with this advert While stocks last WI2012April
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
5
the garden
6
Paul ThompsonTree Surgery& Fencing
SEASONED LOGS SEASONED LOGS AVAILABLEAVAILABLE
Tel: 01303 267267Mobile: 07976 625330
e: [email protected]: www. thompsontreesurgery.co.uk
• Felling
• Pollarding
• Crown Reductions
• Deadwooding
• Hedge Cutting
• Garden Clearance
• Competitive Rates
Professional Tree WorkFully Insured
Environment Agency RegisteredCouncil Approved Contractor
Garden Landscaping Rock Walling Patios & Drives Fencing & Decking Turfi ng & Tree Work Clearance & Groundwork Hedge & Shrub Cutting Water Features
FREE ESTIMATESReasonable
rates together with a personal
and friendly service
FULLY INSURED & ENVIRONMENT AGENCY REGISTERED
Home: 01303 266552Mobile: 07747 707409www.baileylandscaping.co.uk
Higher National Diploma in Countryside Management
Stephen BaileyLandscaping
Chimney Sweeping ServicesBrush and VacBrush and Vac
Friendly, Clean, Reliable Service
Every Type Of Flue SweptPots, Cowls & Bird Guards
FittedStove Installations
NAC’s Certifi cates IssuedFully Insured
Best Possible Prices on all FiresBest Possible Prices on all Fires
Local Family Run BusinessWeddings Attended
All Areas Covered
BENSKOBENSKO
Tel: 01303 221008M: 07857 344770e: [email protected]
A CLEAN CHIMNEY IS A SAFE CHIMNEYA CLEAN CHIMNEY IS A SAFE CHIMNEY
the garden
Wilson Landscapes• Grass Cutting• Hedge Cutting• Tree Work• Fencing• Landscaping of New Build Gardens
• Domestic or Commercial• Overgrown Garden Restoration• Patios• Turfi ng
For a Free Quote Please Call Richard Wilson on 07792216613 or 01233 720891
Over 20 years experience
Landscaping & Garden Maintenance
The fi nest quality cultivated turf from specialist turf farms nationwide, delivered promptly and direct at
competitive prices. ■ Screened topsoil ■ Blended loam ■ Top dressing ■ Composts ■ Bark mulches ■ Decorative gravel ■ Crushed slate ■ Grass seed
■ Railway sleepers ■ Aggregates ■ Rockery Stone ■ Equestrian Surfacing ■ Landscaping
Delivered loose or in crane bags. Discount on bulk orderswww.ransleyturf.co.uk
FREEPHONE 0800 096 16 17
Harringe PlantsGrowers of quality
Bedding Plants, Herbs, Perennials,Alpines, Shrubs, Climbers & Vegetable Plants. Suppliers of Compost, Ceramic
Pots & Sundries
Opening TimesMon - Sat 9 - 5pm Sun 10 - 4pm
Tel: 01303 814422
Growers of qualityBedding Plants, Herbs, Perennials,
AAAAlpines, Shrubs, Climbers & Vegetablee PPPPlants. Suppliers of Compost, Ceramicc
Pots & Sundries
Opening TimesMon - Sat 9 - 5pm Sun 10 - 4pm
Tel: 01303 814422T l 01303 814422
Call For FREEBrochure
01233 626 188
www.chartfencing.co.uk
Visit Our Show Site
Installation Available
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
7
Pet Care
8
before he injured anyone, and then took blood before he injured anyone, and then took blood and skin samples from Merlin. Poor old Merlin and skin samples from Merlin. Poor old Merlin was shaking like a leaf but some more bananas was shaking like a leaf but some more bananas afterwards helped him forget. Dennis was just afterwards helped him forget. Dennis was just mad for the rest of the day!mad for the rest of the day!
I enjoyed the escapade more than anyone else I enjoyed the escapade more than anyone else I think. It helped underline my point of how I think. It helped underline my point of how stupid goats are. Anyway, now we have to get stupid goats are. Anyway, now we have to get medication into Merlin and as well as being medication into Merlin and as well as being timid he is the world’s fussiest goat I think- will timid he is the world’s fussiest goat I think- will not eat anything that has touched the fl oor, and not eat anything that has touched the fl oor, and does not like much apart from goat mix, hay, does not like much apart from goat mix, hay, browse and bananas. And he sniff s everything browse and bananas. And he sniff s everything for a long time before eating it so medicated for a long time before eating it so medicated bananas are not going to go well. If anyone has bananas are not going to go well. If anyone has any ideas please let us know....any ideas please let us know....
It is getting towards the summer now when It is getting towards the summer now when everyone will be taking their holidays. Ebony everyone will be taking their holidays. Ebony and I always hope that Clive and Jane will take and I always hope that Clive and Jane will take us with them one year. Clive says no chance of us with them one year. Clive says no chance of that as I am so naughty I am bound to cause that as I am so naughty I am bound to cause major breakages and disgrace (I don’t know major breakages and disgrace (I don’t know what he is thinking about although I have to what he is thinking about although I have to
Hello Everyone, Mowgli here. I hope you all Hello Everyone, Mowgli here. I hope you all had a good Easter. Ebony and I didn’t get any had a good Easter. Ebony and I didn’t get any Easter eggs (so unfair isn’t it? We would have Easter eggs (so unfair isn’t it? We would have loved some catnip eggs!) but we have enjoyed loved some catnip eggs!) but we have enjoyed eyeing up all the baby rabbits in the garden. eyeing up all the baby rabbits in the garden. None of them have been brave enough to None of them have been brave enough to come into our cat run but we keep hoping!come into our cat run but we keep hoping!
We have had some trouble with our silly old We have had some trouble with our silly old goats this month- Merlin became very itchy. goats this month- Merlin became very itchy. This should be a simple thing to sort out in This should be a simple thing to sort out in a household with 2 vets but we all reckoned a household with 2 vets but we all reckoned without Merlin’s eccentricities. He is friendly without Merlin’s eccentricities. He is friendly and very good natured but terrifi ed of being and very good natured but terrifi ed of being held. Any movement you make towards him to held. Any movement you make towards him to grab his collar or his horns and he is off leaping grab his collar or his horns and he is off leaping about like an antelope! Stealth was required about like an antelope! Stealth was required and this was not the only problem- Dennis is and this was not the only problem- Dennis is so overprotective of Merlin that he tries to butt so overprotective of Merlin that he tries to butt and bite anyone who is holding onto Merlin and bite anyone who is holding onto Merlin against his wishes. against his wishes.
I appointed myself chief co-ordinator and I appointed myself chief co-ordinator and yelled my orders from the shelf in the cat run. yelled my orders from the shelf in the cat run. Clive was Chief Goat Catcher and Jane led a Clive was Chief Goat Catcher and Jane led a team consisting of helpers from the zoo who team consisting of helpers from the zoo who had to hide around the corner until Merlin had to hide around the corner until Merlin had been caught. With the help of a bunch had been caught. With the help of a bunch of bananas (probably not the best food for of bananas (probably not the best food for goats but Merlin will do almost anything for goats but Merlin will do almost anything for a banana) Clive caught Merlin by the horns, a banana) Clive caught Merlin by the horns, I miaowed my signal and the others came I miaowed my signal and the others came running in, caught and held onto Dennis running in, caught and held onto Dennis
AT THE EVEGATE CENTRESMEETH, ASHFORD
‘We treat your pet as if it was our own’
Specialising in all pet animals including exotics& avian. Calm and friendly family run clinic.
Open 7 days a weekFull emergency service
Ample Free Parking
CALL 01303 813756
Mowgli
Pets Care• • Collection ServiceCollection Service• • HandstrippingHandstripping• • ClippingClipping• • DemattingDematting• • Nails •Ears •TeethNails •Ears •Teeth• • Anal GlandsAnal Glands• • Doggy DayNurseryDoggy DayNursery• • Cat GroomingCat Grooming• • MicrochippingMicrochipping• • Dog Walking LocallyDog Walking Locally
Marsh Rd Hamstreet Ashford Kent TN26 2JE
SMART SMART DOGSDOGSGROOMING GROOMING SERVICESERVICEEstablished 1997
TEL: 01233 732505www.smartdogs-kent.co.uk
Home From Home BoardingDoggy DayCare & Dog Walking
www.dogaholics.co.ukE-mail: [email protected]
DogaholicsDogaholics
Tel: 01303 814468 Mob: 07810 441964
GIVE US A CALL AND ASK FOR ROB or STEVE
Tel: 07988 888 078
WINDOWS CONSERVATORIES / ROOFS FACIAS & GUTTERS SOFFITS AND CLADDING
PERFECTLY CLEARWINDOW CLEANING CO.
WELL ESTABLISHED
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
9
admit that right now whilst helping type this admit that right now whilst helping type this up I have tipped a large mug of hot tea all up I have tipped a large mug of hot tea all over Jane’s antique bureau- she had to run my over Jane’s antique bureau- she had to run my paws under the tap to prevent scalds or burns paws under the tap to prevent scalds or burns and then was ranting about water marks on and then was ranting about water marks on the wood or something. Humans are so odd!). the wood or something. Humans are so odd!). Ebony and I always look out for the tell-tale Ebony and I always look out for the tell-tale signs of bags and packing. Ebony gets very signs of bags and packing. Ebony gets very depressed as soon as the bags come out and depressed as soon as the bags come out and hides herself away. I always just jump into the hides herself away. I always just jump into the bags and hide myself amongst the contents. bags and hide myself amongst the contents. They haven’t fallen for this yet but I am hoping They haven’t fallen for this yet but I am hoping that if I hide well enough and lie still enough that if I hide well enough and lie still enough one year I might get to be a stowaway. Do one year I might get to be a stowaway. Do any of you cats out there get taken away on any of you cats out there get taken away on holiday? holiday?
Anyway, I’m off to lick my paws dry. Hope you Anyway, I’m off to lick my paws dry. Hope you are all well and speak to you again next month!are all well and speak to you again next month!
Mowgli Mowgli - Montgomery Veterinary Clinic- Montgomery Veterinary Clinic
Carpet Fresh
Day 2 Day Cleaning Solutions
Carpet Fresh & Day 2 Day Cleaning Solutions
Fully insured for complete peace of mind
the home
10
Approved Retailers& Sales Centre
SOLD BY SPECIALISTS, FITTED BY EXPERTS
Hudson House, 12 Roper Road Canterbury Kent CT2 7EH
Tel: 01227 788588w: www.clarkscanterbury.come: [email protected]
Carpets and Floor Coverings
SOLD BY
SPECIALISTS, FITTED
BY EXPERTS
The Handy Household - Shining & Smooth with Olive OilWhile you are likely to be aware of the health benefi ts of consuming olive oil, you may not realise the many other uses of this natural product. Not only is it a good lubricant, as its molecules have the ability to slide easily over one another, but its fi lm can fi ll rough spots in many surfaces, making them look polished and shiny.
For instance, it has many cosmetic uses. Olive oil can give a closer shave than shaving cream and can also be used to remove eye make-up, by simply dabbing some under the eyes and rinsing off with a face cloth. What’s more, you can massage it into your nail beds to moisturise your cuticles and if you have dry skin, rub in a thin layer after a shower.
Around the house, adding a little to your duster will leave surfaces looking polished and stainless steel will look great when you use olive oil as a shining agent. You can silence squeaky doors by wiping the top of the door hinges so that the oil runs down the sides. Similarly, pour a little onto a cotton bud to get sticky zips moving again.
Even the cat can benefi t, because adding a quarter of a teaspoon to your pet’s food will help to prevent hairballs.
So, not only is this ancient oil good for you, it’s also good for your home and your pets.
the home
11
Wood You Like’s
Wood You Like, Natural Wooden Flooring
Express Domestic IroningDry Cleaning & Duvet Washing
Professional & FriendlyCollection and Delivery
NEW – Locally made gifts and handicrafts – on display at the shopLees Road, Brabourne Lees TN25 6QB
07788725795www.myironinglady.co.uk
CURTAINS AND BLINDSBY SUSIE NEAL
Made to Measure in Your Fabric or Ours.Personal Service from Measuring to Fitting
Call Sue 07760 776496or 01580 761279
email [email protected]
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
the home
12
Curtains – where to startThe cheapest and most subtle option for hanging curtains is undoubtedly a plastic or metal track. Double tracks can be used to hang both nets and thicker curtains neatly, while triple tracks allow you to use fl at panels, perhaps of diff erent fabrics, which can be pulled back and forwards in diff erent combinations depending on the eff ect you want or how much light you wish to allow in. The more decorative alternative is a curtain pole – perhaps in see-through acrylic, slender stainless steel or pale-painted wood – and with pretty fi nials on the ends. On narrow windows or dormers, portiere (or swing-arm) rods are an alternative to fi xed poles, while for a modern eff ect you could use tension wire, fi xed taut within the window opening.
Curtains – fabric and styleWhether you prefer minimal panels or swathes of fabric, it is best to take into account the architecture and size of the room, and of the windows, before opting for a particular curtain style. Grander curtains tend to suit larger, period rooms, while simple curtains are often best suited to modern properties. The way in which a curtain hangs is determined by its heading, usually created by a tape which is sewn onto the back of the curtain and pulled to form gentle gathers, smart pleats or a variety of other shapes. For a less formal look, however, there are plenty of alternatives. Tab- and tie-tops are often found on ready-made curtains, though they can be fi ddly to draw. Curtains can also be hung from a deep hem which is simply slid over a pole, from large eyelets punched in the top (this looks great hung from a tension wire), from clips (magnetic ones are easy to use) or even just from hooks. Curtains can be made from practically any fabric, depending on your budget. The heavier the fabric, the better it will hold a fold, though very heavy fabrics will be too bulky for smaller windows. Very light fabrics will tend to look
fl oppy unless supported by a lining. Lining is, in fact, always a good idea, as it will not only help the fabric hang neatly, but also protect it from fading, dirt and condensation. Thermal linings help retain heat, and can be as eff ective as double glazing, while blackout lining also blocks out light and some noise.
BlindsOnce considered something of a poor cousin to curtains, blinds are increasingly fashionable, off ering a clean-lined look that is sophisticated and laid-back yet still pleasingly tactile. What’s more, they tend to be far cheaper, as they require much less fabric – just the size of the window opening, plus hems. There are diff erent options to suit diff erent styles of room, many of them easy to make yourself or inexpensive to buy off -the-shelf. A roller blind in a neutral colour will blend into the background in a modern, minimal space, or could be used in conjunction with ‘dress’ curtains (fi xed either side of the window) in a more formal room. Roman blinds pull up in lovely soft folds that give an attractive drape without going over the top, while fabric roll-up blinds which, literally, roll up
Wonderful WindowsThey keep in the warmth and
keep out prying eyes, but
window treatments are much
more than a purely practical
addition to a room, says
Katherine Sorrell
A simple roller blind can make a pretty addition to any room. Boho Chic roller blind, from The Fabric Box (0844 8118280;
www.thefabricbox.co.uk). Prices from £66.
the home
13by Katherine Sorrell
from the bottom and tie in position, show off their reverse, thus off ering an attractive combination of two fabrics. When choosing fabrics, mid-weight, not-too-textured fabrics tend to be best for blinds, which need to roll or fold easily against themselves.
ShuttersThey may not be the obvious choice, and they are almost always more expensive than blinds or simple curtains, but shutters are good-looking in an unfussy kind of way and suit both old and new properties. They’re also great for privacy, for blocking out sound and light and adding an extra layer of security. Depending on the confi guration of your window, shutters can be made as a single pair, bi-fold, tri-fold or whatever will fi t, either full-length, half-height (café style), or tier-on-tier, rectangular, tapering or arched in shape, and either set within the reveal or folding back against the wall. The plainest, period-type shutters have a timber frame and a solid centre panel – they can be painted any colour and complement a Georgian or Victorian home extremely well. American shutters have louvres that tilt up and down, off ering privacy but also letting in light. Alternatively, for a highly contemporary eff ect, it’s possible to have shutters made from sleek aluminium or funky acrylic, which comes in a range of gorgeous colours.
The secret of this Ninni Rund pair of ready made curtains from Ikea (0845 358 3363; ikea.co.uk), £49.99, is that they have
both hidden tabs and a gathering tape at the top.
Come And View The Beautiful NewVoyage ‘Maison’ Country Range Just In
With Up To 20% Off Selected Fabrics, Cushions and Blinds DURING MAY
Evegate Retail Park, Station Road, Smeeth, Kent, Tn25 6Sx Tel 01303 812121www.millhousedesigns.net
MILL HOUSE DESIGNSSPRING SALE
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
14
In S
easo
n
Serves 8
Asparagus Asparagus FrittataFrittata
Preheat the oven to 200°C/gas mark 6. Making sure the potatoes are clean fi rst, boil them in salted water.
Trim the asparagus, then cut the stems into 1cm slices leaving the spear as a piece about 8cm long. Add this all to the potato pan for the last 5 minutes of the cooking time.
Drain everything and refresh in cold water. Thickly slice the potato.
Whisk together the eggs really well. Dice the mozzarella and add to the eggs along with 40g of the Parmesan, the parsley, potatoes and slices of asparagus. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir everything to coat with the egg. Lastly, gently stir through the spears.
Heat a 22cm diameter oven-proof deep frying pan along with the olive oil over a medium heat. Non-stick would be great, otherwise one which is naturally seasoned.
Pour in the egg mixture making sure some of the spears are sitting at the top. Leave to cook for around 10 minutes until the edges are starting to fi rm up.
• 275g new potatoes
• 450g asparagus
• 5 large eggs
• 200g buff alo mozzarella
• 50g Parmesan, grated
• 2 tbsp chopped fl at leaf parsley
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Asparagus
Serves 4-6Preperation time 10 minutes
Cooking time 20 minutes
For those who’ve only ever considered asparagus as a luxurious accompaniment to a main course, it’s time to think again. This
delicious recipe is simple to cook and the mild fl avours of the mozzarella and eggs mean
that the asparagus is still the star of the dish.
Seasonal Delights
FruitApples (stored)RhubarbGooseberries
VegetablesAsparagusBeetrootCarrotsCarrots
CabbageCaulifl owerGreensOnionsPotatoes
SpinachSaladLettuceRadishesRocket
FishCodCrabHalibutHerringJohn Dory
SorrelSpring OnionWatercress
15
Real bread, bunsand pastries
Open 8.30 to 5 on Tues, Thurs & Fri 9 to 1 on Saturdays
22 Church Street, Wye TN25 5BJ01233 812218 [email protected]
LOCAL MARKETSCHALLOCK
Challock Memorial Hall, Blind Lane.1st and 3rd Friday of each month
From 1pm to 4pmContact Pauline Hickson 01233 740979
THE BARN SHOP TRADITIONAL MARKETCHALLOCK
2nd & 4th Saturday of each month10am – 2pm Contact 01233 740237
CHARING COUNTRY MARKETCharing Church Barn
9.00 -11.30 every Thurs MorningContact 01233 740176
Teas & coff ees available, Crafts, in seasonvegetables and baking. Graham attends on the 2nd
Thursday of the month, to sharpen the knives,tools and garden gadgets ect.
EGERTONEvery Friday 2 - 4.30pm Millennium Hall
HEADCORN2nd Saturday of month 9.30am to 12.30pm at the New Village Hall, Parsonage Meadow
Contact Penny Kemp on 01622 890601
ROLVENDEN - 01580 240763Every Thursday 10am -12 noon
St Mary’s Church and the Village Hall
TENTERDEN COUNTRY MARKETEvery Friday 9.30am -11.30am
St Mildred’s Church Hall, Church road.
WAREHORNEWarehorne Village Hall 10am -1pm
4th Sunday of the monthTel: 01233 733718 or Mob: 07979 905600.
WITTERSHAM MARKETEvery Tuesday Village Hall 9am. - 11am
Tel: 01797 270757
WYE - 07804 652156First and third Saturday of every month
on the Village Green in Wye.Tel: 07804 652156
www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk
Sprinkle over the last 10g of Parmesan and slide the frying pan in to the oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the frittata is golden and fi rm.
Serve straight from the pan with a crisp green salad.
Barbara-Ann ClarkFine Foods
Coffee - Lunches - Cream Teas - Dinner
Open Every Day 10pm - 5pmNew Spring Menu
“Roundels Restaurant” 7pm-11pm(Booking required)
• Sunday Roasts• Fine Dining 1st Sat of every month• (Booking required)• Jubilee Champagne Tea Weekend
Saturday & Sunday• Indian Banquet Night 30th June
(Booking required)
01303 813175
(
Website under construction
Th e Courtyard, Evegate, Station Road, Smeeth, Ashford TN25 6SXwww.barbara-annclark.co.uk
Lemon SolePlaiceSalmonSardinesSea BassSea Trout
Meat & GameBeefGuinea FowlHareLambMutton
PorkRabbitVealWood Pigeon
16
SorrelEvery month I update the “In Season” produce for this item, assuming that most items are relatively easily sourced, but last year when Sorrel came into season I received a call from a reader that was having great diffi culty in fi nding any. So I took upon the quest to fi nd a local source of Sorrel. It has only been recently, when Sorrel came into season again that I fi nally, with the help of Wye Farmers Market discovered Invicta Herbs in Challock. So for those of you looking for Sorrel, look no further, please contact Susan Gollins on 07730 893737.
Sorrel is part of the lettuce family and looks like a pale green version of baby spinach. The pointed leaves have a tangy, lemony gooseberry fl avour. Sorrel appears soon after winter, so is good for salads early in the year when there is little else around.
Serving Suggestions When the leaves are under 7.5cm long, they can be used raw in salads, especially with dandelion leaves. Bigger leaves can be made into soups, sauces and risotto. Khaki-coloured sorrel purée is a good acidic accompaniment to oily fi sh, chicken or veal, or poached eggs on toast. It can be stirred into crème fraîche to give quick sauce. Add a few leaves of watercress, spinach or parsley if you want a brighter green colour. Chop sorrel like a herb to add to stuffi ngs and crumb coatings. The lemony taste means sorrel can also be added carefully to fruit salads, jellies, custard and fruit drinks, as lemon balm or verbena.
I have decided to designate May as National Cider Month. And since, as far as I know, there is no statutory board for designating such things as National Sausage Week (which actually exists) and National Athlete’s Foot Day (which thankfully doesn’t), my National Cider Month is as formal and offi cial as any other example of this sort of public relations hokum. So there.
But why am I designating May as National Cider Month when there is already (perhaps unbeknownst to most of you) a perfectly good National Cider Month, run under the auspices of the Campaign for Real Ale in October? Because October is silly, that’s why.
But, why have a National Cider Month at all? Can’t cider look after itself, without my intervention? Well, the Bulmers, the Gaymers and the Magners of this world with their mass distribution and big advertising budgets don’t need my help and jolly well aren’t getting it. But if you think that’s all there is to cider then you’re in for a treat.
Unless you’re lucky enough to live in the western counties, you’ll be extremely lucky to fi nd what a traditionalist would call a “real” cider on the handpumps at your local pub. Most large towns – although by no means all – have an outlet for Weston’s excellent draught cider from Much Marcle in Herefordshire. But good though Weston’s is, it’s hardly a representative selection of what the country’s estimated 4-500 independent cidermakers have to off er.
But what is “traditional” cider? Basically it’s just pure fresh-pressed apple juice slowly fermented over the winter – apple wine, in fact. Any apple juice will ferment, but most of the best ciders are fermented from blends of the two or three hundred varieties of cider apple – small, hard, inedible little things, for the most part, and sour with tannin which acts as a strong antibacterial agent and gives
Cider Drinkingin May
17
the fi nished cider an oaky depth. These traditional ciders range from the roughest farmhouse scrumpies, which often have an almost vinegary acidity, to drinks as subtle, sophisticated, and elegant as fi ne white wine. And then there’s perry, a superb drink that’s almost impossible to obtain thanks to the rarity of the pears from which it’s made...
Traditional cider is almost always still (not fl at) rather than sparkling. Left to itself it will ferment to complete dryness, and to a strength of 6-8% alcohol by volume, and the carbon dioxide generated during fermentation will dissipate naturally. If you want it sparkling you have to deliberately reintroduce some CO2, either by pitching the cider with a little yeast and sugar to stir a mild refermentation or, 99.99 times out of a hundred, by fi zzing it up artifi cially.
I do everything I can to introduce people to the delights of traditional cider, and that’s why I’m designating May as National Cider Month. October was chosen for the honour because that’s when apples are generally harvested. But cider needs to be fermented slowly and carefully, to allow the harsh malic acid to turn into the smoother and more mellow lactic acid – the so-called malo-lactic fermentation. Last season’s crop should be ready to drink right about now.
There are cidermakers all over the country these days, not just in Devon, Somerset and Herefordshire but in Norfolk, Suff olk, Kent, Essex, Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cheshire, even Yorkshire and Scotland! So seek out your nearest, invest in a few bottles, and celebrate with me.
by Ted Bruning
g NEEDLES & PINSREPAIR AND ALTERATION SERVICE
Zips & Trouser / Skirt Shortening from £4.50HAND SEWN CURTAINS
FREE COLLECTION / DELIVERY SERVICECall Christina 01303 864280
DRESS MAKING & ALTERATIONSQurna Creations
Now in TenterdenTel: 01580 764131
Email [email protected]
MARY HEMSLEY INTERIORSHandmade Curtains • Tracks & Poles
Blinds • Wallpapers • UpholsteryDesigner Fabrics
01233 813717150 Bridge Street, Wye, TN25 5DP
SUPERCLEAN
07875 762012 / 01233 [email protected]
Carpets, Rugs, Upholstery, Duvets, Mattresses, Curtains, Headboards, Soft
Toys And Pet Beds.
10% Off for New Customers
REPAIRS TO...WASHING MACHINES • COOKERS (ELECTRIC)WASHING MACHINES • COOKERS (ELECTRIC)
TUMBLE DRIERS • DYSON VACUUM SPECIALISTTUMBLE DRIERS • DYSON VACUUM SPECIALISTCall Garry on 07958 640152Call Garry on 07958 640152
01233 632329
Paul Smith Plumbing ServicesFOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS
FREE ESTIMATESCall Paul on 01303 812965
07794005909
Advertise Here £16 per month plus vat
10% discount on 6 month bookingsEasy monthly payment option available
the home
18
01233 758413 / 07889 041607E-mail: [email protected]
Oak & Hardwood Windows & Doors
Bespoke Furniture & Carpentry
Flat Pack Furniture Assembly
General Joinery & Building Services
Listed Building Specialists
Part ‘P’ Approved Electrical Services
Unit 14, Meadowview Ind. Est; Ruckinge TN26 2NR
Antique and Second HandFurniture For Sale
Restoration and Quality French Polishing
Passionate About RecyclingAll Things Wooden
Tel: 01303 813824Mobile: 07818 032088
Unit 3,Wembdon Farm, Bower Road,Smeeth. (Nr Evegate)
email [email protected]
Artists demonstration evening Weds 23rd May 6.30 - 9pm
Craft in the barn Fri 25th & Sat 26th May 10am - 4pm
Art workshops Mon 21st & Thurs 24th May
19
Tel: 01233 720426Frith Road, Aldington Frith, Ashford TN25 7HQ
www.goodintent.co.uk
GOOD INTENTPub/Restaurant ~Aldington Frith
Tony and Jemma Welcome You to The
Food Served: Mon 6-9pm Tue- Fri 12 - 2.30pm & 6 - 9pmSaturday 12 - 3pm & 6 - 9.30pm Sunday 12 - 4.00pm
Where you can enjoy freshly prepared food at reasonable prices. At the bar you will also find a fine selection of real ales, wines, lagers & spirits.
We are not strangers, just friends yet to meet!
Early Bird3pm - 6pm
Mon - Fri
Group Bookings and Wedding Receptions Catered For
Spring Opening Times: Open All Day 6 Days a Week, Mondays from 4pm
SPRING MADNESSEvery Monday Our Famous Fish ‘n’ Chip Supper
Fresh Cod, Haddock and Plaice in our own beer batter £7.95 £5.95Tuesday Steak Night
Sirloin, Ribeye, Mixed Grill 2 For £24.00 £20.00 Th ursday Nights
Any 2 Meals For £18.00Sunday Roasts
Please help us by booking in advance, thank you
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
leisure
Advertise FREE of charge email your events to: [email protected]
what’s on
20
EVENTS MayLympne Village Hall is holding a Garage Safari on Bank Holiday Monday 7th May. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure! Maps will be on sale at the Village Shop from 2nd May. Maps and refreshments will be on sale at the Village Hall from 9.00 am – 1.00 pm There is ample free parking in the car park and toilets. Raising Funds for the Village Hall Floor Fund
Sunday May 6th Diamond Jubilee Last Fundraiser at Aldington Village Hall. Crafts and cream teas 1 to 5pm. Craft stalls wanted contact Sue on 01233 720394 donations of scones wanted please.
Saturday 26th May Sellindge Village Hall 10-12am Tai Chi For Health 2 hour Taster Session visit www.taichiforyou.co.uk for further details
The Ashford Branch of Kent Beekeepers Association meet at 2.30pm on 6th May at their Apiary site, Cheesemans Green Lane, Mersham, TN25 7HX to hear a talk and demonstration by Nick Mengeham on “Using the Opportunity of Swarming for Increase or Queen Rearing”. Anyone interested in learning the craft of keeping bees please contact Peggy Wood 01233 503074
Brabourne & Smeeth Horticultural Society are holding a Grand Plant Sale on Saturday 12 May, 11 am to 1 pm in the Village Hall. Come along and stock up your garden/allotment with fl owers, fruit and vegetables. Light refreshments, a raffl e and free parking.The next meeting will be on Friday May 25 with Sue Scrivens speaking on the subject of ‘More Wayside Plants’, 7.15 for 7.30 pm. Visitors and new members will be made very welcome. For further info contact Wendy Sanders on 01303 813 451.
Smeeth W.I. Smeeth W.I. and the Brabourne and Smeeth Branch of the Royal British Legion will jointly celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in Brabourne and Smeeth Village Hall at 7.30 on 14th May, 2012. Following their individual business meetings, they will then enjoy a 1950’s supper, a quiz, and a singalong to the music of the period all together. Visitors and new members of either organisation are most welcome and for further information telephone Joy or George Taylor on 01303 812165 Kathleen MacPhee 01303 812536 or Jenny Cooper 01303 813330
Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society next meeting is on Thursday the 10th May when we will have an illustrated talk on “The
Story of English Country Cheeses” by Mr. D March. We meet at Aldington Village Hall 7.45pm for 8.00pm. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Colin Evans 01233720618.On Saturday 19th May we have our “Plant Sale & Coff ee Morning” at Aldington Village Hall starting at 10.00am. All welcome. For further information contact Colin Evans 01233720618.
NSPCC Open Garden and Plant Fair, Saltwood Castle, nr. Hythe, CT21 4QU. Saturday 5th May, 2012. 10am - 4pm. Entrance £5 per person, limited free parking. A rare opportunity to explore the grounds of this medieval castle and pick up an interesting plant. Cakes, lunches, barbecue, and this year The Castle Moat Archers. Support the vital work of the NSPCC. Sellindge Sports & Social Club Saturday
Afternoon Car Boot Fairs The Sellindge Sports and Social club will be hosting car boot fairs on the following dates: 12th May, 16th June , 14th July, 18th August, 8th September &13th October. £5.00 per boot - no booking required. Set up 11 am - no entry will be allowed before this time. Public are requested not to arrive before 12 noon. Refreshments and toilets in the Clubhouse. Free Car Parking and Entry. Homemade Cake Stall. Any queries ring 01303 812955 up to 10 am on the day of the event. Full details available at www.sellindgeclub.co.uk.
21
BRABOURNE BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Tim Simpson Tel:01303 813257
Art and Camera Club The next meeti ng is on Tuesday May 8 from 10am -12md. We are very fortunate to have a local arti st to teach and encourage us and we learn from each other as well. People are very talented! You don’t have to be able to draw or paint but if you have an interest in art or photography please come. You are encouraged to bring your own materials, although some are available. For more details phone Mike on 01303 812484.MP’S Surgery: Our MP Damian Collins, will be holding his monthly surgery at the church from 3.45pm to 4.30pm on Friday May 18 If you have any questi ons, complaints or comments, please book an appointment by e-mailing your name, post code, subject and message to: shepwayconservati [email protected] or telephone 01303 253 524. Meeti ng Point We will meet at the church on May 31 at 12noon. Looking ahead to the Jubilee, please bring your memories of the past 60 years and wear something red, white, blue or all three. Enjoy a fi sh and chip lunch. Please let Tim Simpson 01303 813257 or Cathy Rankin 01303 814132 know if you plan to join us. The cost will be £5.50.Men’s Curry Night Monday May 28 at 7.30pm. Please ring 01303 813257 for more details or to book your place.
Brabourne and Smeeth Village Fete and Craft Fair
Saturday June 16from 2pm – 5pm
on Smeeth Playing Field.
Lots of fun for all the family!To book a stall or event please contact
the chairman Brian Sanders01303 813451
or email [email protected]
To book a craft stall please call Val Thorpe 01303 813152
or email val_geoff @btopenworld.com
All proceeds to the Playing Field Association.
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
leisure
22
thevillage directory
Looking to Advertise?...But are you comparing apples with apples?
Dymchurch
BrooklandNew Romney
Challock
WestwellEastwell
Boughton Aluph
Wye
HastingleighBrook
Brabourne
StowtingStanford
AldingtonMersham
Bilsington
BonningtonRuckinge
WarehorneWoodchurch
Appledore
High Halden
Bethersden
Hothfi eld
Tenterden
Wittersham
St Michaels
Biddenden
Smarden
Pluckley
Egerton
Charing
Little Chart
Sellindge
RolvendenDrop-off s Only
Small Hythe
Hamstreet
ASHFORD
TN26 - 5,000
Aldington Area - 3,000
Wye Area - 4,000TN27 - 6,000
Tenterden & Rye Area 9,000 The Marsh - 10,300
Newchurch
St Mary’s BayIvychurch
Headcorn Bodsham
Elmsted
RyeCamber
Iden
PlaydenEast Guldeford
Dungeness
Lydd
Stone-in-Oxney
Full Coverage - Using Royal Mail we aim to reach every rural address in each area, plus online coverage in our Business Directory on our website.
High Quality – Full colour, gloss print. Premium Positions raise your profi le even further.
Effective - Many advertisers are long term - it works!
Flexible – Advertise locally or reach further afi eld. Mix areas or artwork sizes.
Discounts - For long term and multiple magazine bookings.
Convenient – Monthly Payments. All major Credit/Debit Cards accepted.
Editorials raise awareness and introduce personality.
Popular – Not just another advertising magazine! Widely read and valued by local residents. We aim to support and engage the community with editorial content, which is local and informative.
Call: 01233 720488or email [email protected]
23
CLUBS & SOCIETIES Line Dancing Classes, Sellindge Village Hall. Tues Eve 7.30 – 9.30 (Intermediate), Thurs afternoon 1-3pm (easy intermediate) Thurs eve 7.30 9.30 (Intermediate) contact Maureen Lincoln 01303 813161 or 07989 210449.
Brabourne & Smeeth Horticultural Society. We meet on the last Friday of the month at Brabourne & Smeeth Village Hall, 7.15 for 7.30pm. Visitors and new members will be made very welcome. For further info contact Wendy Sanders on01303 813 451.
Aldington & Bonnington Gardening Society We meet at Aldington Village Hall 7.45pm for 8.00pm. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Colin Evans 01233720618.
Aldington Short Mat Bowls Club We play twice a week on Monday and Thursday nights at Aldington village hall from 7.30pm to 10.00pm. No special equipment required you only need a pair of shoes with fl at soles and we can supply the woods. Go on give it a try it may be just the sport you are looking for. Interested, give Jim or Janet a call on 01233 632102
At the Farriers Arms in May we have our usual (fi rst Tuesday of the month) Acoustic Music Session in the bar on the evening of 1st May and the Vintage and Veteran Vehicle Meet on the third Sunday (20th) from noon, when all classic vehicles are welcome and their drivers can claim a free drink.Our “Specials” weekday this month is Wednesday when, each evening we have our Wednesdays Wine Club when we off er professional wine pairings to complement our table d’hote menu.We mark the May Bank Holiday on Monday 7th May with lots of activities for all the family – see the website (www.thefarriersarms.com) for more details.We are pleased to host The Pins from Hertfordshire (“One of the most exciting and sought-after live bands around, known for their melodic instrumentals and catchy vocals”)on 11th May when they stop off at the Farriers on the way to their European Tour .Tuesday 15th May is the International Day of Families when children eat free when accompanied by two full-paying adults
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
leisure
Food Served: Monday to Saturday 12 - 2:30 & 6 - 9pm Sundays 12 - 4pm & 6 - 8pm (Booking Advisable)
• STONE STREET • STANFORD • ASHFORD • KENT • TN25 6DN
The Drum Inn Email: [email protected]
Mick and Suzi Bushellwelcome you to The Drum Inn.
The Drum Inn is a three hundred year old building with many of it’s original features
including two working fi re places that make for a relaxing atmosphere. Serving an ever changing supply of Award Winning Guest Ales to sample as well as traditional fresh
cooked pub food seven days a week.
We Have :• Up to 4 Real Ales at any
one Time• Home Cooked Food at
Reasonable Prices• Large Beer Garden
• Small Function Room• Live Music • Camp Site with
Facilities• Bike Club On Tuesday• Folk Club Thursday
Book Your Table Now for Bank Holiday Weekends
Tel: 01303 812125
Lympne Short Mat Bowling Monday and Thursdays from 7.00 p.m. to 9.45p.m. in the Village Hall. Annual Subscription is £20.00 and the green fees are £2.00 per evening. For more information call Mick or Marian Hatton on 01303 814274
The Sellindge Get Together Club Meet in the Durling Hall at Sellindge, next to the main hall, from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on the second Wednesday in the month. If you would like to come just come to our meetings or phone 01303 813528 for more details.
Smeeth W.I. We meet on the second Monday of the Month at 7.30 pm in the Brabourne & Smeeth
1940’s Dancing Lessons, Every Friday, including Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa & Collegiate Shag. For beginners and improvers, at Warehorne Village Hall from 7pm – 9.30pm. Cost £6.00 Tel 01233 860564. No partner required.
Body Conditioning Class at Smeeth Scout Hut, Mondays 7.00 p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer for details 01233 820109
Hi/Low Aerobics at Sellindge Village Hall on Wednesdays 7.00 .p.m. Fun Fitness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer for details 01233 820109
Step at Sellindge Village Hall Sundays at 10.00 a.m. Fun fi tness for all levels Call Michelle Sinclair ACE Personal Trainer for details 01233 820109
Zumba Fitness 7.15pm A latin inspired dance fi tness class and Legs bums and Tums 8.15pm Every Wednesday Aldington village hall. Contact Leigh Little 01233 65075 3 M: 07756 726590
Yoga Thursday’s 10.00-11.30pm St Mary’s Oakroom, Smeeth. Classes are suitable for all. Please call Daniela for more info about this and other classes. 01233 860417 or 07939 870826
Yoga. Friendly classes suitable for all levels. Mondays 7.30-9.00pm, Warehorne Village Hall & Thursdays 10.00-11.30am, St Mary’s Oak Room, Smeeth (off the A20). £7 per class. Please call Daniela 01233860417 or 07939870826
health & beauty
24
ACUPUNCTURE
Physical and Emotional Wellbeing
for Adults and Children
Help includes:• Musculo-skeletal Pain• e.g. Backache, Sciatica• Headaches Allergies• Gynaecology Insomnia• Addiction Digestion• Stroke Sleep Anxiety• High Blood Pressure• Infections Fertility Stress• Feeling Down Grief & Loss• Confi dence Relaxation• Dietary and Lifestyle Support• Maintaining Health & Wellbeing
Stephen Bayliss, AcupuncturistFolkestone Complementary Health Clinic
4 West Cliff Gardens, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1SPForeman and Jones Integrated Health Practice,
112d High Street, Hythe, Kent CT21 5LE01303 253304
g{x ftÇvàâtÜç eÉÉÅá
Manicures • Pedicures • Swedish, Deep Tissue and Hot StonesMassage • Waxing • Luxury organic Facials • Spray Tanning •
Intensive Anti aging facials • Soak off 3 week Nail Polishes
Ashford’s Premier Location for Beauty, Therapies & Fitness
* POLE FITNESS, PILATES & TAI CHI CLASSES
g{x ftÇvàâtÜç eÉÉÅá
www.rejuvenateholistichealth.co.uk High House Bus. Park, Appledore Road, Kenardington, TN26 2LF
Tel: 01233 732795
‘NEW’ season colours now in ‘NEW’ season colours now in ‘NEW’ season colours now in for Gelicure 2/3 week non chip for Gelicure 2/3 week non chip for Gelicure 2/3 week non chip
Polishes!Polishes!Polishes!
Beauty at it’s Best!
‘NEW’‘NEW’‘NEW’ Eminence Organics Eminence Organics Eminence Organics Age Corrective collagen collection facials, Age Corrective collagen collection facials, Age Corrective collagen collection facials,
868686% proven proven proven reduction in fine linesreduction in fine linesreduction in fine lines and and and wrinkles 100wrinkles 100wrinkles 100% naturalnaturalnatural
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
health & beauty
25
It’s 3am and I’ve just noticed the time. Arrgh! I determinedly fold down the page of my book and try to stop feeling guilty. “it’s only 3am, Jessica, I’m sure you won’t be tired tomorrow…” yeah, right. This is the problem with me and books. I read them like I eat packets of biscuits.
Each chapter is another sweet chewy circle of joy and I don’t stop consuming until they’re all gone. I sometimes enjoy reading a little fi ction before bed, as many do, to give some time for the brain to relax and unwind. I’ll pick a book from my shelves, wriggle under the duvet and start to read…. and don’t stop. Oh look, 4 hours have slipped by!
Thankfully I don’t own any of my very favourite books, or these late night reading sessions might occur more frequently. My bookcase is crammed with retired favourites; colourful paperbacks (Jacqueline Wilson was my primary school author of choice), holiday reads and other assorted teen fi ction. The school library is the real residence of all my top favourites. To me, a long-awaited book becomes more tempting when it’s wrapped in protective plastic and has a paper record thingy stuck in the front - and it’s free you know! As a lower school student I spent many a lunchtime there with friends, but now I swan in and stagger out again a short while later, somewhat less stylishly, with a healthy stack of books. The librarians are always friendly and helpful, and there’s a book club for all years on Tuesdays where we often read book award nominees.
For years I was slightly put off mainstream books with loads of awards, but then I realised that these books won because they really are fantastic!
Take “The Knife of Never Letting Go” by Patrick Ness, as an example. It won the Booktrust Teenage Prize and the Guardian Award, as well as being shortlisted for the Carnegie
Medal. I remained sceptical, despite numerous members of the aforementioned book group singing its praises. It was only when I actually got round to checking it out (of the library) did I see what the fuss was about. Patrick Ness’ whole ‘Chaos Walking’ series so far is imaginative and thought-provoking.
Another incredible trilogy that I’m excited to get to the conclusion of is “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins. This is action-packed and fascinating fi ction at its best.
I love books, especially those that allow me to escape into another world, like lovely fat fantasy series such as “His Dark Materials” by Philip Pullman, Scott Westerfeld’s “Uglies”, “Pretties”, “Specials” and “Extras” - and the one with “Mortal Engines” by Philip Reeve, all set in some enthralling but troubled alternate world. I’m not too picky; I enjoyed the “Twilight” saga by Stephanie Meyer too! Maybe if you’re looking to buy a present for a literary teen I’ve been of some help…
When my family are on holiday or a long car journey, I have become quite the expert at stealthily peering over my younger brother’s shoulder to borrow a bit of his entertainment should I fi nish my own. There’s nothing wrong with reading below your age every now and again. After all, Ben has reasonable taste; Frank Cottrell Boyce is great. At the other end of the spectrum is the kind of literature we read in English, like “The Great Gatsby”. Fun too, I guess apart from the fact we have to read into all the deep meaning and dissect it to death.
Learning to read as a young child is like being given the key to the Tardis. You can go anywhere and do anything. The possibilities just keep on multiplying as you progress from big picture books read by Mum, to ingenious stories and adventures. Just keep turning those pages.
a freshPERSPECTIVEIn My Good BooksWritten by Jessica Davies, student from Derbyshire.
26
Getting Getting ITIT Sorted Sorted
Your IT Problems Your IT Problems Solved!
* Breakdowns * Hardware Repairs
* Upgrades * Virus & Spyware * Data Recovery
* Software Support
www.compumate.co.uk
[email protected] 01233 888793 - 07725 742281 - 01797 208189
Wired & Wireless Networks Small Business Server Specialist
* No Call-out Charges * Remote Monitoring
& Management * Managed Support
Services * Data Security
Business & Home ServicesBusiness & Home Services
Laptops | Computers | Notebooks Any Make, Any Model
No Fix - No Fee Laptop & PC Repair
www.kentcomputersolu ons.com | info@kentcomputersolu ons.com 01233 680 086
Hardware & Software Repair
Virus & Spyware Removal
Computer Start-up Repair
Data Recovery & Backup Solutions
Slowness & Performance Improvements
Broken & Cracked Screen Replacement
Display & Motherboard Repair
A few of our specialities...
Book your repair today!
How to Play: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition! That’s all there is to it. You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic - there’s no maths involved and no adding up. It’s fun. It’s challenging. It’s addictive!
Sudoku
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
27
business
Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation supports children’s healthcare throughout the UK. Registered Charity Number 1096483 © Aardman/Wallace & Gromit Limited 2012
www.wrongtrousersday.org
Supported by
Kindly sponsored by
*Competition details on the website
COMPETITION
ALERTRegister today to enterour free prize draws to win cracking
prizes!*
Celebrate the Best of British on Friday 29th June and wear your sporting WrongTrousers to help change the lives ofsick children in local hospitalsand hospices across the UK.
Register today for your fantastic freefundraising pack
HOT LINE 0845 600 1924
Get Quizzical forGet Quizzical forAir AmbulanceAir Ambulance
A quiz night in aid of life-saving charity Kent Air Ambulance is to be held in Ashford this summer.
Teams of six to eight people are needed to test their general knowledge at Conningbrook Hotel in Kennington on June 24th at 6pm.
Tickets cost £10 per person and include a food platter for each table. Booking is essential so please contact Cheryl Johnson on 01622 833833 or email [email protected].
Kent Air Ambulance is a life-saving charity which provides a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) seven days a week, 365 days a year.
The helicopter fl ies with a highly-skilled doctor and critical care paramedic who take the skill and expertise of an A&E department to the
patient at the scene of an accident or medical emergency.
All proceeds from the quiz night will go directly to the service which is funded almost entirely by public donations 29
Who Pays for Care? In our regular legal series, Gill Snow of Pengelly and Rylands looks at who must bear the cost of care According to the Registered Nursing Homes Association there are nearly 250,000 people receiving nursing home care in the UK and with our aged population rising fast this figure is set to grow. Many people are anxious about who will have to pay for their care in later life and what effect this will have on their savings and property. At present, whether you, your health authority or local authority pay for your care depends on a number of factors, not least the amount of assets you have. Your local authority may fund all, part or none of your care costs depending on, in the first instance, whether they think you need care, the type of care you need and your financial circumstances. If they determine that you do need to be cared for in a care home they will undertake a financial assessment of you, which will ask you about your savings, capital and income. If you have capital over £23,250 you will pay all your fees, under £14,250 the local authority will foot the bill and if you have capital between these figures you will pay something and the local authority will pay the rest. Capital includes savings, bank accounts, cash and any property you own. However, the value of house which you live in will be disregarded if your stay in a care home is for less than 12 weeks and also, importantly, if your house is still lived in by your spouse, co-habitee or any relative aged over 60 or under 16 whom you have been maintaining. If you reduce your capital for the purpose of avoiding nursing home fees the local authority may be able to ‘claw back’ some of the money at a later date. However, there are legitimate ways to protect your assets and the earlier this is done the less likely it is that the local authority will act. Your local council cannot force you to sell your home and is able to defer payments of any money you may owe them for care home fees until after your property is sold, or after your death when your estate is wound up. They can do this by means of a charge on your property. Income is also taken into account so that even if you have savings and capital below the £14,250 your income will be used to fund all or part of your care.
Gill Snow – Solicitor at Pengelly & Rylands If you are so ill that you need medical care you may be eligible for NHS continuing care, the costs of which will be met by your local health authority. If a patient goes into hospital and is deemed too unwell to return home in the long term, his needs will be assessed to see if he qualifies for continuing care or NHS funded nursing care, although there is a limit on the weekly amount which will be funded . If you have any queries about this, or any other aspect of elderly client care, please telephone myself or Rosalind Johnson on 01580 762248
Pengelly & Rylands FAMILY SOLICITORS
• House Sales & Purchases • Wills & Probate • Family & Cohabitation • Elderly Client Care • Company Formation • Employment • Fixed Fee Interviews
39/41 High Street Tenterden
Kent TN30 6BJ
Telephone (01580) 762248 www.pengelly-rylands.co.uk
Pengelly& Rylands
FAMILY SOLICITORS
• House Sales & Purchases• Wills & Probate• Family & Cohabitation• Elderly Client Care• Company Formation• Employment• Fixed Fee Interviews
39/41 High StreetTenterden
Kent TN30 6BJ
Telephone (01580) 762248www.pengelly-rylands.co.uk
business
30
the home
31
YYYYYYYYooooooouuuuuuurr KKKKiittccchhheennn oorrr BBeeddddddrrroooooooooooomm!
We have over 30 years experience in spray fi nishing existing Kitchen and Bedroom
doors, panels and accessories. Why not have your kitchen furniture matched to your
kitchen.
You can choose any colour, we will have it professionally mixed in a hard-wearing two-pack polyurethane paint, which is the fi nish we use when spraying Bespoke Kitchens for several kitchen suppliers in and around the
Kent and London area.
Our service includes:- Dismantling (where possible), re-fi nishing to your chosen colour and re-installing to a professional standard.
Why not give Tenterden Polishing a call today
TTTTTTTTTeeeel: 0000112222333333 -- 886660000088888666666666666
Painter and Decorator
QF Quality Finish
Painting
- Qualifi ed & Insured - Interior and Exterior - Floor & Wall Tiling - Wall Papering & Murals - Fine Clean at the End of Every Job - Experienced at Dealing with Damp - Can Help with Interior Design
Call: 07500905622 01233 627715
Email: geoff [email protected]
Geoff Evans
Jakeman & Jakeman HomecareSteve Jakeman
HandymanPainter & Decorator
Interior & ExteriorDecoration and Maintenance
01233 625442 07910591393219 Canterbury Road, Kennington, Ashford, Kent TN24 9QH
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
Banbury Aerial and Telephone ServicesAre an Established and Fully Insured Aerial Business Offering Many Different Services
For Your Free Quote
We Offer a Fantastic
15% Discount
to Over 65’s
motoring
32
WILLESBOROUGH &WILLESBOROUGH &KENNINGTON GARAGES LTDKENNINGTON GARAGES LTD
CHURCH ROADKENNINGTON
TN24 9DG
Email: [email protected]
01233 622808
HYTHE ROADWILLESBOROUGHTN24 0QQ
Email: [email protected]
01233 623946
SERVICINGSERVICING REPAIRSREPAIRS MOT’sMOT’s CAR AND LIGHT COMMERCIALSCAR AND LIGHT COMMERCIALS
for good honest advice,�information�
and a solution to most�mobility problems�
New ,Used & Hire Equipment�from Aids for Daily Living�
to Wheelchairs.�
www.forrmobi l i ty .co.uk�
• Parking by the door.�• Indoor & outdoor� test areas.�• Repairs / Servicing.�• Modifications.�• Adaptations�.�•�Easy terms available.�• Free home� assessments�
come and try the largest�selection of mobility�equipment in ashford�
motoring
33
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
Bob Fishe
r’s
Bob Fishe
r’s
You May Be Surprised What A Small Country Garage Can Offer Today’s Motorist!
A Personal Friendly Service On Your Door Step At Affordable Prices.
www.bobfcars.co.uk
GarageGarage
Sellindge 01303 814131
MOT Testing Centre• SERVICING• MECHANICAL REPAIRS• BODY REPAIRS & PAINT WORK• TYRES• BATTERIES & EXHAUSTS
Also A Good Selection Of QualitySmall Used Cars.
Tel: (01233) 626176Bodyshop: (01233) 638006
3 ELLINGHAM WAY, ELLINGHAM INDUSTRIAL ESTATEASHFORD, KENT TN23 6NF
• FULL SERVICES• ENGINE TUNING
Have your MOT carried out using the latest Automated Test Lane equipment.
• MECHANICAL REPAIRS• BODYSHOP - RESPRAYS
For A Friendly and Reliable Service
• MOT TESTING CENTRE FOR CLASS IV AND VII
wit & wisdom
34
Did your hear about the person who used an aerosol of “Furniture Polish”, instead of “Fly Killer”?It took them longer to die, but, they had a lovely fi nish!
We Should Not Have Survived!
According to today’s regulators and bureaucrats, those of us who were kids in the 50s, and 60s, probably shouldn’t have survived, because...
Our baby cots were covered with brightly coloured lead-based paint, which was promptly chewed and licked. We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, or latches on doors or cabinets and it was fi ne to play with pans. When we rode our bikes, we wore no helmets, just fl ip fl ops and fl uorescent ‘clackers’ on our wheels. As children, we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. Riding in the passenger seat was a treat. We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle - tasted the same. We ate dripping sandwiches, bread and butter pudding and drank fi zzy pop with sugar in it, but we were never overweight because we were always outside playing. We shared one drink with four friends, from one bottle or can and no one actually died from this. We would spend hours building go-carts out of scraps and then went top speed down the hill, only to fi nd out we forgot the brakes. After running into stinging nettles a few times, we learned to solve the problem. We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back before it got dark. No one was able to reach us all day and no one minded.
We did not have Playstations or X-Boxes, no video games at all. We had friends - we went outside and found them. We played elastics and street rounders, and sometimes that ball really hurt. We fell out of trees, got cut and broke bones and teeth, and there were no lawsuits. They were accidents. We learnt not to do the same thing again. We walked to friend’s homes. We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and ate live stuff , and
although we were told it would happen, we did not have very many eyes out, nor did the live stuff live inside us forever. We rode bikes in packs of 7 and wore our coats by only the hood.
Our actions were our own. Consequences were expected. The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke a law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law. Imagine that!
Did your hea b
drinkand spenand to fi ninto to soin thwerto r
Wevidouanrebrlatofrs
aldid n
Ab5b
Occocwfl AbwhWpbwd
Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years, they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards. One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said “Now dont get mad at me....I know weve been friends for a long time, but I cant think of your name! I’ve thought and thought but I cant remember it. Please tell me what your name is”
Her friend glared at her for at least three minutes, she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said “how soon do you need to know?”
the home
35
aul rown
nstallations
Plumbing & Heating ServicesQuality work at competitive prices
24 Hour emergency call out
Leaks/Burst pipes Boiler changes/servicing
Landlord certificates Bathrooms & showers
Central heating installations & alterations
Standard Boiler Installation from £1200Combi From £1300
5yr Parts & Labour Warranty - Natural Gas & L.P.G Oil
Tel: 01233 720 740 Mob: 07905 387873
24 Hr Emergency Call Out
07905 700 142Mersham, Ashford, TN25 7HP
Derek HalesM A S T E R T I L E R
Specialist in all Forms of Wall and Floor Tiling
Clean, friendly and reliable
For your free quotation call Derek on
Piping Hot Plumbing& Heating Services
All plumbing work undertakenNo Job Too Small!!
• Burst pipes, Blockages, Taps, Pumps, Radiators, Lead & Drainage work
• Bathroom & Shower InstallationNo Call Out Charge. 24hr Service
Call: 01233 733779 or 07515651717
Plumbing & HeatingCENTURION
304539
• Domestic Gas & LPG installation • Boiler service & repair• Power fl ushing • Unvented hot water • Water softeners
• Underfl oor heating • Landlord gas safety inspections
01233 662726 | 07871 441373www.centurionplumbingandheating.co.uk
Oil Heating & Oil CookersR-OAK Services
M. Oakley & O.Stanley - Oil-fi red SpecialistsBreakdowns & Servicing • Boiler Installation • Power Flushing
AGA, Rayburn, Alpha, Stanley, Worcester, Grant, Boulter, Potterton, Trianco and more...
Tel: 01233 770138www.ohoc.co.uk
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
the home
36Tel: 01303 812134 Mob: 07879 842124
TINA FRANCIS
DOMESTIC ELECTRICIAN
New Installations Re-wires
Additional or replacement Lights, sockets etc
Mobile 07761 695101 Email – [email protected]
Newchurch, Romney Marsh, TN29 0DH
Industrial • Commercial • Domestic• Installations• Security and fi re alarms• Emergency Lighting• CCTV• Garden Lighting
• Showers/extractor fans• Inspection and PAT testing• Full and part rewires• General electrical repairs• Under fl oor heating
Call: 01233 665107E: [email protected]
FREE Quotations!
Sucklifts Cesspool
Emptying Service~ Est 1986 ~
High Pressure JettingService and Repair to Sewage
Treatment Plants
01233 840624
Accredited Engineer British Water
Cros
swor
d So
lutio
nSu
doku
Sol
utio
nKi
d’s
Corn
er
the home
37
Peg tiles, Slates, LeadworkMathematical tiles
Over 25 years experienceCity & Guilds qualified, Fully insured
Free estimates
TEL 01303 814936 . MOB 07708 471869www.atlas-roofing.co.uk
STANFORD ROOFING
Telephone or Fax: 01303 814860Mobile: 07725 124891
New Roofs & Repairs Slates, Tiles, Kent Pegs Leadwork Repointing Guttering, Fascias Flat Roofs Public Liability Insurance
FREE ESTIMATESOver 25 years Experience
Pound Lane,
Smeeth TN25 6RJ
Wilco Plumbingand Heating
• Central heating installations & repairs• Boiler replacement
5 Year Guarantee on new Worcester Bosch Boilers• Oil, LPG Gas & Solar Installations • Emergency plumbing and heating works • All gas installation and repair work • Unvented hot water specialist • Landlords gas safety inspections
Plumbing and heating engineer with over 30 years experience. Registered with the Institute of Plumbing and the Gas Safe Register for gas work. Registered with KCC Trading Standards as an approved tradesman.
References for all work available on request. Free estimates and no
obligation.
Tel: 01303 862173Mobile: 07860 452640
AshfordGroundworks
All Ground Works & Drainage, Driveways,Patios & Paving, Fencing, Block Paving,
All Equestrian Works, Bricklaying,Specialist Resin Bound Gravel
Tel: 01233 721839Mobile: 07963 668008
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts
useful information
38
VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS
Aldington 01233 720213Brabourne & Smeeth 01303 813234Bilsington 01233 720818Hamstreet 01233 732568 Mersham 01233 503192Sellindge 01303 813250Smeeth 01303 814977Stowting 01303 863520
Doctors SurgeryHamstreet Surgery 0844 4773989Sellindge Surgery 01303 812180
Parish Councils:Brabourne & Smeeth 01233 623902Mersham & Sevington 01233 720816Ashford Borough Council 01233 637311W: www.ashford.gov.uk
Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185
Brabourne and Smeeth Community Warden: Richard Sinden 07813 712 805.
Veterinary SurgeonsMontgomery Vets 01303 813756
Ashford Volunteer Centre 01233 647 422Age Concern 01233 620 635www.ageconcern.org.ukCARM E: [email protected]: Www.carmromneymarsh.org.ukMacmillan Cancer Support W: www.forget-me-nots.co.uk
Parkinson’s UK, Ashford BranchContact Mike Wharrad – 01233 623530SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: [email protected] British Legion 01233 620 167CPRE Kent 01233 714540
National Train Enquirieswww.nationalrail.co.ukBus EnquiriesArriva Bus Enquiries 0844 800 44 11Stage Coach East Kent 0871 200 22 33 (Timetable) 08456 00 22 99 (Customer Services)
Emergency 999Police Neighbhd TeamAshford & Tenterden 01622 690690Crimestoppers 0800 555 111
Out of Hours Doctor 0845 4349655William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331
Samaritans 08457 90 90 90www.samaritans.org
Electricity: Southern Electric 0845 770 8090 EDF Energy 0800 783 8866Gas: Natural 0800 111 999 LPG Details on tank
Disclaimer: Every care is taken to ensure this directory is as accurate as possible but the publishers do not rraccept responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions.
the home
39
www.dialaplumber.com
•NO CALL OUT CHARGE • FREE ESTIMATES • ALL WORK GUARANTEED • OAP DISCOUNT
NO JOB TOO SMALLTEL: 01233 642233
Plumbing Heating
Plumbing & HeatingServices
di l l b
Dial a Plumber
•NO CALL OUT CHARGE •
PlumbingPlumbing
Tel: 01233 642233
Building ContractorsProfessional Service For All Your
Building Requirements
Extensions - ConversionsAlterations & Refurbishments
New Build - Restoration & RenovationNew & Re-Tiled Roofi ng
Drawing & Planning Service AvailableAll Groundworks Undertaken
All Building Works Undertaken
Tel: 01303 812687Mobile: 07766581868
D.B.S.
CEN
TRAL GARAGE
Supply Any Make of Vehicle Both New and UsedArrange All Types of Vehicle Finance & Leasing
Provide Service, Repairs & MOT TestingRepair Accident Damage or Bodywork
RestorationTyres, Exhausts & Batteries at Competitive Prices
Collect Vehicles Locally Free of ChargeSUN EQUIPPED AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE CENTRE
“For a friendly service from a family business”
REAR OF HSBC BANKHIGH STREET, TENTERDEN, KENT TN30 6BD
Telephone: (01580) 764444www.centralgaragetenterden.co.uk
T E N T E R D E N
Please Mention The village directory When Responding to Adverts39