The Link Winter 2018 by Betty-Ann Ambury

Winter 2018 /2019

L TThe Link

Issue No. 162

December 2018 / January 2019

12,000 copies delivered to Caterham, Kenley, Purley and nearby areas Your Free Magazine

The Old Cedar Caterham by Simon Grant Depicting the iconic ancient landmark in Caterham

THE OLD CEDAR | CATERHAM Available in a limited edition of only 75 giclee prints produced to the highest quality on 230gsm acid free paper, each copy is individually signed and numbered by the artist. A discreet embossed monogram of authenticity is also carried in the margin. The trimmed size of each print is 420 x 594mm including a white border. £80 each including postage/delivery and packing.

www.monogramﬁneartists.co.uk or email sales@monogramfineartists.co.uk

Memory Café At Sunrise, we are passionate about the dedicated care and support we provide to residents living with dementia. Our regular Memory Cafés are an opportunity for those with memory loss and their carers to meet with others who are in a similar situation. As part of the Memory Café, we also run Dementia Friends information sessions with volunteers trained by Alzheimer’s Society. This is a great opportunity to learn more about dementia and how you can create dementia friendly communities.

Join us for our Memory Cafés at 11.00am: Wednesday 12th December and Tuesday 8th January

Sunrise of Purley Russell Hill Road, Purley, Surrey CR8 2LF

020 3871 3018 SunrisePurley.co.uk

PURLEY

4 July 2018

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info@oldstyledating.co.uk

www.oldstyledating.co.uk

AS FEATURED IN

d, , E zD E NEW Beginner CLASS Every TUESDAY 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 pm Warlingham Church Hall Fun, friendly classes suitable for all. No experience required, just a sense of humour Easy to follow instruction. Learn to dance to a variety of music genres. We hold regular social events, workshops and weekend breaks too

tel. 07802 894556 E-mail: admin@dancezing.co.uk Facebook.com/Dancezing

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ome December you're almost guaranteed to catch sight of masses of bright red poinsettias. They appear in great abundance in supermarkets and nurseries, and we purchase them to decorate our homes, shops, and churches, in the festive season. Poinsettia is a native plant of Mexico (euphorbia pulcherrima). It is photoperiodic, meaning it blooms only when the days grow short during the colder months. Its colour mirrors the classic holiday tones and colours of Christmas, with delicate green leaves and vivid red bracts modified leaves that resemble flower petals; the actual flowers are the tiny buds, called cyathia, and these are in the centre of the bracts. It’s no wonder they have become a symbol of the season, with such a bright red colour. Poinsettias do best when the room temperature is between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C); don’t go much lower in the evening or you will get leaf drop. Also, keep them away from drafts and cold windows. In daytime, poinsettias like lots of direct light. Place your plants near a south-facing window and keep the soil moist whilst they are in bloom. A simple way to create humidity around the plant is to fill a shallow tray or saucer with pebbles, cover with water and stand the poinsettia in its pot on The Link

top of the pebbles. Be careful not to over water, you should only need to water it if the soil is starting to dry out. Many experts keep plants all year round and know when to prune and use specialized fertilizer. When the poinsettia comes indoors the experts will cover the plant with a box, for maybe six or eight weeks, as the plant does need a 12-hour dark night. This also helps their beautiful blooms, and when the box is removed just before the holiday season what a spectacular display you'll have. Some people use the plants for cut flowers as they add such colour to any display. You should place the stems under running water to let the milky sap run out before adding them to your spectacular array.

Now you are able to purchase sophisticated pink, named Peppermint Ruffles, also Sparkling Punch, which is pink with a white centre. You can also purchase a white poinsettia called White Rosettes, and a gold called Autumn Leaves. My thoughts on that are that my favourite will always be the beautiful red plant, but I'm no specialist. I just love to see them in our church for the Christmas services - they look so lovely and bright. article & photos by Pamela Green

Many horticulturists are trying to broaden the plant's horizons by creating a variety of colours different from the vibrant red.

Hello Readers... Welcome to the Winter edition of The Link. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to keep this copy for two months, until the next comes through your door at the end of January.

L TThe Link

In this issue, the focus is of course, on Christmas. In the Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On section youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find lots of events leading up to Christmas and as you browse through, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a number of adverts for Christmas fairs, carol services, etc. And not to be missed, our Christmas cake recipe . . . with a difference! I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tried this one for myself, but it sounds delicious, so Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve decided to make it to have in addition to our usual fruit cake! Fortunately weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a house full of visitors this year, so I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t suppose thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be much in the way of leftovers.

Publisher & Advertising Grapevine Publications (Worcestershire) Ltd 5\H 6WUHHW Â&#x2021; %LUWVPRUWRQ Â&#x2021; :5 $6 7HO y 0RE info@grapevinepublications.co.uk www.grapevinepublications.co.uk

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Contributors

Those of you who know me, know that before coming to live in England, I spent many years in South Africa, so despite having been here for the last 18 years, a traditional English Christmas is still a novelty for me: real Christmas trees, and real holly wreaths, real mistletoe, and sometimes, if we are very lucky, real snow! Although I spent most of my life in Africa, somehow a barbeque in 40Â° sunshine just didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem right on Christmas Day!

Photography

And on that note, I will wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you all have a wonderful festive season, so until next time, keep happy and healthy.

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DISCLAIMER. All information published is correct according to those who supplied it and no responsibility is taken if it is not. Care is taken to ensure all advertisements are truthful and no liability is accepted for errors or omissions. Artwork is accepted on the understanding that there are no copyright restrictions.

Betty

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All artwork and copy appearing in this publication is copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The right to refuse advertisements is reserved. The use of this publication for canvassing, direct marketing or any other activity apart from sourcing local goods and services is strictly prohibited. ÂŠ 2018

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This month . . . 2

THE OLD CEDAR CATERHAM

COLOURFUL POINSETTIA

SURREY WILDLIFE TRUST

OLD COULSDON CAMERA CLUB

FRIENDS OF FOXLEY

CLUBS & GROUPS

CHAMPAGNE: DISCOVERING HIDDEN GEMS

THE ELVES ARE RETURNING

BELMOND BRITISH PULLMAN

MOVEMENT IN THE GARDEN

LIONS NEWS FOR DECEMBER

THE LAST SUMMER TENANTS

ROTARY CLUB OF CATERHAM

WHAT'S ON IN DECEMBER & JANUARY

24 The Link

CATERHAM & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY ST LAWRENCE'S CHURCH CAROL SERVICE

CHRISTMAS BREAK

ALL SAINTS KENLEY CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL

COMMUNITY CONTACTS

PURLEY CROSS INFORMATION CENTRE

CINDERELLA

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Anwell Veterinary Centre

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NOW OPEN Our new Veterinary Clinic at Freer Kennels, Godstone. For more information please contact us on 01883 744461 anwellvets@btconnect.com Opening times Monday - Friday 9.00am - 10.00am and 4.00pm - 6.00pm Saturday 9.00am 10.00am

We work on an appointment system Monday - Saturday from 8.00am We can offer home visits on request. Full medical, surgical and dental facilities on site. Puppy and kitten health checks. Convenient location with on site parking. 24 hour emergency service.

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Tel 020 8668 6151 Monday - Friday 8.00am - 7.00pm â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday 8.00am - 1.00pm

email: anwellvets@btconnect.com www.anwellvets.co.uk

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This weekend come in and talk to our designers about making your dream kitchen . . . a reality!

The Link

Wren - photo courtesy of Sue Tranter

The Winter Wren T

he Winter Wren or Jenny Wren is a tiny, mottled brown bird and has a short, upright tail. It is otherwise known as Troglodytes or ‘cave dweller’ because of its habit of exploring crevices and holes, and is one of our smallest, least visible countryside birds. But it is certainly not one of the quietest and it has much to sing about as the most common breeding bird in the UK. There are currently 8.6 million breeding wren territories.

If you take a walk in any broadleaf woodland in Surrey you will hear its piercing, trilling song emanating from the middle of some dense vegetation. It seems amazing that such a loud, long song is produced from such a miniature bird. And if you take time to stop and watch, you will often be rewarded by glimpses of it darting about in its non-stop search for small invertebrates lurking in the nooks and

crannies of the woodland undergrowth. It’s ability to thrive through the winter, with great energy and activity, has awarded the wren much folklore symbolizing life, energy and cleverness around the bleak mid-winter solstice. The Wren – King of the birds – is a story that proved being small and clever can beat being big and strong like the eagle or other larger birds.

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Wild things to do in December! If you’re looking for something inspiring to do this December, why not take part in one of the Trust’s wild courses, walks, talks or family events – there are plenty to choose from! For more information or to book events visit surreywildlifetrust.org/events. Create your own Christmas wreath Sunday 2nd December 1pm - 3pm Start the Christmas season off with a morning of festive fun making your own holiday door wreath. We will provide the circular frame and an abundance of natural materials from which you can create a welcoming wreath that will last for all of December. Venue: Nower Wood Educational Nature Reserve, Leatherhead Booking Essential: members £30/non-members £42 Wren - photo courtesy of Jon Hawkins

A highly successful bird, the wren can be found in almost any habitat where there are insects to eat and bushes or rock crevices in which to build their domed nest out of moss and twigs. Their secretive nature and habit of exploring dense vegetation and dark holes for food means that they can be less easy to spot than other garden birds. But harsher winter weather, especially snow, can force them out into the open to make use of a bird table well-stocked with mealworms, finely broken breadcrumbs, oatmeal and grated cheese. Gardens too can provide warmer roosting opportunities than the countryside and nest boxes are often used as winter roosts. The birds, which store very little body fat and lose heat easily, huddle together for warmth and protection like penguins. The greatest number found was 61, in a Norfolk nesting box in the winter of 1969. A bird of character the Winter Wren has long been part of our culture. In 1937 it first featured on the reverse of the smallest of our old copper pre-decimal coins, the farthing. In May 2017, it figured on the first-class stamp in a Royal Mail ‘Songbirds’ series and it came fourth behind the robin, kingfisher and barn owl in the 2016 public vote to choose a national bird. The Link

Wild families at Newlands Corner Saturday 8th December 10.30am - 12.30pm Bring out your family's wild side! Join us for games, crafts and activities to engage with nature, fun for all the family. Babes in arms FREE. Meeting point: Newlands Corner, Shere Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU4 8SE Booking essential: £5 per person. Please book a place for each person attending the event. Pine and Dine: Corporate Event Wednesday 12th December 10.30am - 3pm A corporate Christmas party with a difference! Enjoy a breath of crisp winter air on our beautiful National Nature Reserve at Chobham Common doing some fun conservation tasks with your work colleagues! You’ll be chopping invasive Scots pine to help important heathland species to thrive and take home a FREE Christmas tree - chosen and cut by you! Location: Chobham Common, Chobham, Surrey, Nearest postcode: KT16 0ED Booking essential: Group bookings of 10 or more £35 per person; group bookings of up to 10 people £40pp. The wonder of Abinger Common Tuesday 18th December 10am - 12noon Abinger Common a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a former grazing heath and one of the few woods in the Weald where Sessile Oak is dominant. Holly forms much of the shrub layer and bilberry can also be found here. Join us on this guided walk to discover more about the habitats of this precious site. Location: Abinger Common, Friday Street Car Park, Friday Street, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6JR Booking essential: Members FREE, non-members – adults £10, children £2, family £20 (2 adults + 3 children)

ooking for a Christmas present or a New Year resolution? Consider Camera Club membership. Jon says “I took this picture in Trelissick Gardens in Cornwall last year. I was immediately struck by the spiky plant, a Globe Thistle, being visited by three bees at the same time, the picture title “Three’s Company” came to me immediately. At this time of year our thoughts are towards the festive season, and with a bit of added frost, the flower would look great hanging as a decoration from a Christmas Tree. The bright Summer conditions meant I could take the picture hand held on my Nikon DSLR.”

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Re-Roofing and Re-Slating Chimney Stacks Leadwork Guttering Built-up Flat Roofing Systems PVC Fascia Soffits Loft Conversions Porches Renovated FREE estimates

DECEMBER r 4th - Colour Print Competition (2 of 3) r 11th - Christmas Social r 8th

r 15th r 22nd r 29th -

JANUARY “London from the Rooftops” talk by James Burn Monochrome Print Competition (2 of 3) Workshop: Drones – D Eastley / All about bracketing, HDR & RAW Digital Image Competition (2 of 3)

We meet each Tuesday evening at 8pm in Cameron Hall, Canons Hill, Old Coulsdon. Visitors £5 (refunded on joining). Visit oldcoulsdoncameraclub.org. uk See us on facebook or contact lynda@oldcoulsdoncameraclub.org.uk

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Celibacy . . . ??

Celibacy can be a choice in life, or a condition imposed by circumstances. Whilst attending a Marriage Weekend, Ken and his wife, Joan, listened to the instructor declare, "It is essential that husbands and wives know the things that are important to each other." He then addressed the men, "Can you name and describe your wife's favourite flower?" Ken leaned over, touched Joan's arm gently, and whispered, "It's Homepride, isn't it?" Thus began Ken's life of celibacy. *******

Technology . . . not always in our favour!! My boss phoned me today. He said, "Is everything okay at the office?" I said, "Yes, it's all under control. It's been a very busy day, I haven't stopped for a minute." "Can you do me a favour?" he asked. I said, "Of course, anything, what is it?" He said, "Hurry up and take your shot, I'm right behind you on the 7th hole."

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CHRISTMAS December menus from ยฃ29.95 per head for groups! ย ัฒัฒ - ัฒ- 1-u|; -ัฒvo -ย -bัฒ-0ัฒ; |_uoย ]_oย | ;1;l0;u

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Clubs & Groups 1st St Mary's Scouts 01883 340680 2nd Purley Brownies brownies@2ndpurley.org.uk 3rd Kenley Brownies 3rdkenleybrownies@gmail.com 21st Purley Scouts www.21stpurley.uk Aquarius Swimming Club 01883 344 662 Caterham & District U3A www.u3asites.org.uk/caterham Caterham Army Cadet Force 07973 386343 Caterham Art Group secretary@caterhamartgroup.org.uk Caterham Bowls Club 01883 340014 Caterham Bridge Club 01883 730304 Caterham Community Choir 01883 345678 Caterham Cricket Club 07568 717733 Caterham Food Bank 07523 983122 Caterham Hill Badinton Club 01342 832702 Caterham Hill WI caterhamhillwi@gmail.com Caterham Owners Club www.caterhamownersclub.co.uk Caterham, Oxted & Godstone Lions Club 01883 335945 Caterham Rotary Club caterhamrotary2@gmail.com Caterham WI caterhamwi@hotmail.com Caterham Youth Centre 01883 344678 Croydon Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association nhw@cbnwa.com Croyden Rifle & Pistol Club 020 8684 4260 Croydon Voluntary Action 020 8253 7070 East Surrey Choral Society (ESCS) 07976 237879 Kenley Bridge Club www.bridgewebs.com/kenley Kenley Hockey Club www.kenleyhockeyclub.clubbuzz.co.uk Kenley Sports Club 020 8660 4572 Kenley Scouts (7th Purley) enquiries@7thpurleyscouts.org.uk Kenley Valley WI 020 8660 3810 Marie Curie Caterham 01883832621 Old Caterhamians Club 01883 343488 Old Coulsdon Bowling Club 01737 552580 Pantaloons Amateur Dramatic Society www.pantoloons.com Probus Club of Caterham probusenquiries@wmanor.co.uk Probus Club of Purley 020 8660 0404 Purley & Kenley District Guides bradshaw.joanne@sky.com Purley Bowls Club 020 8660 0608 Purley Bridge Club www.bridgewebs.com/purley Purley Food Hub 07546 635295 Purley John Fisher Rugby Club 01737 553042 Purley Sports Club 020 8660 0608 Purley Youth Centre 020 8668 7259 Royal British Legion 01883 712476 South Croydon Sports Club 020 8688 1782 South London Harriers 020 8398 1548 St Catherine's Hospice 01293 447333 Tandridge Photographic Society 01883 626463 Tandridge Voluntary Action 01883 722593 The Royal British Legion 01883 343492 Warlingham Archery Club 01883 347301

To list your club or group, email info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

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HOLIDAY CHILDCARE CATERHAM MARDEN LODGE PRIMARY SCHOOL PRICES FROM Â£18 HALF DAYS, FULL DAYS & EXTENDED DAYS AVAILABLE

The Link

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CHAMPAGNE: DISCOVERING HIDDEN GEMS Champagne has long been recognised as THE sparkling wine for celebrations, special occasions and events, for many, many years. Non-vintage champagne is very popular too, with numerous followers and devotees, and is equally enjoyable, wonderful and respected.

he I Love Bubbly Company is UK based and was created to discover splendid champagnes that are not widely known. Founded in 1952, the Charles Collin Champagne Company produces a range, including award-wining champagnes, with grapes being selected carefully and harvested by hand, complying with strict guidelines. I found Charles Collin Cuvée Charles Brut (80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot Noir) to be superb, with the bouquet of citrus fruits being much appreciated by the nasal senses. The mouthfeel and palate sensations continue through, for this elegant production. Charles Collin Cuvée Charles Rosé Brut (80% Chardonnay 20% Pinot Noir) is another excellent champagne from this company. Light fruits of the forest enhance an impressive bouquet and entice, splendidly, to the experience awaiting the mouth and palate. Again, the elegance is outstanding and the production is well-balanced, and a particular pleasure for al fresco dining, adding colour to the occasion. Royal Riviera Brut Suprême (70% Pinot Noir 30% Chardonnay) celebrates the Principality of Monaco and the French Riviera, most proudly. The presentation has an attractive turquoise blue label and packaging, which caught my eye. Champagne Royal Riviera The Link

Brut Suprême is rich and elegant. The pale gold colour, plus the elegance, throughout the bouquet and tasting, is very impressive, with the pinot noir grapes adding to the expression of this champagne. www.royalriviera.mc www.champagne-charlescollin.com These refreshing champagnes, with wonderful perlages, are ideal as apéritifs and also to be enjoyed with a variety of cuisine. White meats, poultry, cured meats, rich fish, shellfish and many other dishes pair perfectly with these well-balanced productions. I located these champagnes, plus luxury hampers, culinary concepts, one of a kind Wearing Memories jewellery and gifts, within the ranges available from the I Love Bubbly Company. The events section, on the website, has information about their personalised services, including Mobile Champagne Bars and private events arrangements.

Tel: 44(0)7539 391 452 Email: info@ilovebubbly.com www.ilovebubbly.com As always, Enjoy! Trevor Langley

The elves are returning Chief elf and his team are returning to Caterham Valley this month and will be enjoying their adventures in shops and business throughout December too. Caterham Valley For You manager Sue McGeown reports on the free family fun ahead

Families setting off on the 2018 Elf Trail

he faint jingle of bells can be heard, a crisp breeze is in the air and people are tentatively wondering if it’s still too early to deck the halls... Christmas is coming! We’re so excited here at Caterham Valley For You, as we’ll be welcoming some very special guests to town again. Last year, we sent out a speculative letter to Father Christmas asking whether a crack team of his elves might be interested in spending a few weeks with us in Caterham Valley. We were delighted then when chief elf turned up with a handpicked selection of friends and family to bring festive cheer and bags full of mischief.

They got up to all sorts in our town’s shops and businesses and local families delighted in searching out their secret hideouts – hundreds reported back with their findings and the elves enjoyed themselves so much they asked us to come back again this year. And so, for four weeks from Saturday November 24, the impish creatures will be found hiding in shops and businesses around Caterham Valley waiting to be discovered by elf detectives. There’s an added element of fun alongside the main trail this year, as one of the elves, Silly Billy, was so excited to be coming to Caterham that he forgot to get fully dressed before he jumped into the magic Elfmobile bringing him and his friends from the North Pole.

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The roaming chief elf (with tinsel hat) visiting one of the trail team last year

You can help him find a new set of clothes in business windows around Caterham Valley - each item of clothing will display a letter and when you’ve found them all, you’ll be able to work out what Santa’s giving Billy for Christmas. Get ready for launch The launch of Caterham Valley Christmas Elves Takeover coincides with our town’s Christmas Lights Switch On, with events taking place throughout the Saturday at Soper Hall, Croydon Road and Church Walk Shopping Centre. At Soper Hall, you’ll find a Christmas Fair from 10am to 4pm and Santa’s Grotto from 10.30am to 3.30pm, as well as carol singing, a tea room and, yes really, snow!

The 2018 winners of the Caterham Valley For You elf trail, left to right, Jake Connor, Mia Brown, Seren Cunningham and Arthur Hopkins The Link

Two year old Asher Cook loved papa Elf

Croydon Road, meanwhile, will host a Christmas market from 11am to 5pm, a lantern parade from Asprey Fountain at 4.30pm and the turning on of the Christmas Lights by Father Christmas at 4.40pm. In Church Walk, there will be community stalls from 11am to 5pm and the Christmas light switch on at 5pm, as well as other entertainment. It promises to be a truly wonderful day to get your Christmas shopping done while enjoying a fantastic community spirit. Back to the elf trail, and children can track down all 20 hand-crafted elves by answering clues which will pinpoint their hidey-holes. The free family fun continues until Saturday December 22, and families can go in search of the cheeky elves any time during shop and business opening hours. The free trail sheets will be distributed at various pick-up points around the town ready for elf-hunters to start their adventure. Completed sheets can be posted at the Magic Elf Trail Post Boxes at Morrisons, Caterham Valley Library, Bow Butterfly and 3BXMJOHT 0QUJDJBOT, and UIFSF JT UIF chance to win one of three prize vouchers GPS UIPTF who are successful. Happy elf hunting! For full details about The Caterham Valley Christmas Elves Takeover, visit the Caterham Valley For You website at www.caterhamvalley.co.uk I hope you all enjoy a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Sue

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Treat someone to an unforgettable experience this Christmas Are you looking for an extra special gift this season? Then St Catherine’s Hospice can help you!

he local hospice has chartered the famous Belmond British Pullman, the sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, to take people on an unforgettable trip next spring. Pulling into Horsham station on Saturday 18 May 2019, the impressive train will whisk guests through stunning Sussex countryside as it travels towards Windsor. During your outbound journey, you can sit back and relax as you indulge in a Bellini Brunch accompanied by live music. You’ll then have time to explore historic Windsor, including the Queen’s favourite weekend home, Windsor Castle (entry fee included) before heading back to Horsham.

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On your return journey, you’ll be welcomed back on board with a glass of champagne before enjoying an exquisite three course dinner and wine in your opulent surroundings. This bespoke trip has never been available locally before and offers people a truly extraordinary Christmas treat. Travelling on the Belmond British Pullman is a genuine, vintage pleasure. Carriages have been restored to the former glory of their 1920’s heyday. Over a century ago, George Mortimer Pullman, the father of luxury train travel, instructed the finest craftsman of the time to create in his words, “A Palace on Wheels.” And today, the Pullman train and its carriages continue to be just that.

Give someone you love an exclusive chance to travel back in time to an age of glamour and luxury this Christmas. And help raise vital funds for local terminally ill people in your community. Tickets for this incredible trip are £420 per person. Places are strictly limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. To book your tickets, or for more information, contact Hannah Shorter at St Catherine’s on 01293 447364.

Creating Your Garden Paradise ĂƌƟĐůĞ ďǇ :ŽŶĂƚŚĂŶ ŝƐŚŽƉ

Movement in the Garden T

here are various options for getting movement into a garden, some are really obvious like a water feature, others are really more subtle such as encouraging wildlife in for, example birds, butterflies, etc., that can also bring the element of movement in. Plants are another instrument for bringing movement into a

garden, the movement of leaves and the resulting rustling sounds they can bring, for example bamboo blowing in the wind, is an excellent way of bringing movement into a very small space. Water features are a good option. You don’t necessarily have to install a pond to create a water feature, just water

bubbling over a stone creates a rippling sound and promotes a relaxing environment. This is a cheap option with just some outside power needed. In turn, a pond with a waterfall can bring in birds as they will be encouraged to come in and bathe, bringing additional movement into a garden. The Japanese are experts in using the element of water in a garden and have a tipping water feature called a Deer Scarer, which is a bamboo chute that fills up with water from a pump and when full tips back and knocks against a rock. Giving movement and sound but not all the time. Increasing wildlife into a garden is reasonably easy: you can feed the animals to bring them in, i.e. birds, or create an environment for them to breed and nest, such as bird boxes. However, having a cat or a pet in a garden would have a detrimental effect on attempting this. If you are really restricted for space and large rustling leaves

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aren't really an option, but you still have some planting in the garden, putting things like windmills, wind chimes, suspended mobiles, etc. can bring in sound and movement. Nowadays you can also get things that move and are operated by sunlight. Solar powered ornaments such as fluttering butterflies will rotate when the sun shines on the power cell making it flutter and move around. These are only a few pounds to buy from a garden centre, but will add some interest reasonably easily and cheaply into a very still garden. Planting: I have already mentioned bamboos as a way of adding movement, but some trees have the same effect. Anything with large leaves that

can be caught by the breeze will obviously move around, for example an Indian Bean Tree (Catalpa bignonioides).

and give the visual appearance that the tree has been given a second life.

Alternatively you can bring dead wood back to life, for example if you have a dead tree in the garden, rather than taking it out you could grow a vine up it. When the tendrils develop and hang off it they will then move around in the wind and make the space look alive again.

If you have a pond then adding some reeds around the outside will contribute to movement when it is windy. Obviously make sure you get the correct ones, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want something that is going to take over the pond or the roots are going to puncture the liner or base of the pond.

This can also be done with a rose, a good strong climbing rose, a Kiftsgate or a Rambling Rector. These are very big climbing roses that will scramble up a dead tree and easily take over. Another variety is a Banksia Rose which is a non prickly and highly scented rose. Any of these varieties will clamber all over the dead wood

If you have a straight forward flower bed and you want to create some movement in there, some fine grasses strategically placed around would be a good recommendation. These will give the impression that they are almost floating and moving around amongst the plants when there is a breeze.

If you have an upcoming event please let me know. If you have a problem in the garden then please contact me and I will do my best to answer your questions. Are you interested in Foliation looking at any aspects of your garden from hard to soft landscaping, small to big projects? Get in touch with your questions or WR GLVFXVV \RXU JDUGHQ SURMHFW FDOO P\ RIĂ&#x20AC;FH QXPEHU RU HPDLO MRQDWKDQ#IROLDWLRQ FR XN The Link

Foliation Ltd 44 Â? Lakeside Â? Newent Â? Glocestershire Â? */ 6= www.foliation.co.uk )ROORZ PH RQ 7ZLWWHU #-RQ%LVKRS

Caterham Oxted & Godstone Lions Club 'LVWULFW 6( (QJODQG &HOHEUDWLQJ \HDUV RI /LRQV VHUYLQJ WKHLU FRPPXQLWLHV

LIONS NEWS FOR DECEMBER

his summer the Club, in conjunction with Age Concern, funded the installation of a defibrillator on the wall of the Hare & Hounds in Godstone. It was thought that this was not only the most practical place to put it but also a place where it is less likely to be vandalised. It is the only defibrillator in the village which is accessible 24 hours a day. It was thought that it would be a good idea for Club members and locals to have a demonstration on how to use a defibrillator, so Sally Monnery, a Caterham first responder, was booked to show what needs to be done as and when CPR might be necessary. The very interesting and helpful demonstration took place at the

Baptist Church in Godstone and was well attended by the Lions and some people from the village including Diana Drysdale who represented Age Concern. Sunday 28th October was the celebration of the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charter. This is when a Lions Club celebrates the date on which it was established, and for COGS this year marks 40 years since the Club was established. The celebrations took place at Bletchingley Golf Club where over 90 people enjoyed a lovely lunch which was shared with friends, supporters and Lions from other Clubs. A jolly good time was had by all. During the proceedings Lion President Rita Reissland announced that two members, Tony Gordon and Ian Macaulay, had been awarded the

Melvin Jones Fellowship which is given to dedicated Lions who put the community above themselves (photo below). Of course the month of December is a busy one for the Club as it is time for our Christmas float to be dusted off and serviced before starting our Father Christmas rounds on the 5th December. You may like to note the dates and locations of when the float will be doing the rounds. At weekends they will be stationary and will start at 10am and finish at 4pm in locations listed below. In the evenings they will start at 6pm: Wednesday 5th December Caterham Village Thursday 6th December South Godstone East Sat 8th & Sun 9th December Haskins Garden Centre Monday 10th December Bletchingley Thursday 13th December Godstone North of A25 Sat 15th & Sun 16th December Clacklet Lane Service Station West Monday 17th December Godstone South of the A25 Tuesday 18th December South Godstone West Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd December

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ART CLASS STARTS SOON CO

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE!

GREAT NEWS for all our readers looking for something fun to do in the New Year! The Seasons© are now taking enquiries for our next Art Class, which starts soon. This is a 13 week part-time art class (once a week for 3 hours). Absolute Beginners to Improvers - Just Like You! The course is designed to be fun for absolute beginners who have never picked up a brush before, through to improvers. Step-by-Step Guidance We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting. Over the course we will explore four different media; pencil drawing & sketching, oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step-by-step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art.

• Three hours once a week, mornings or afternoons • Meet New Friends, Learn New Skills The Link

forever, meet new friends and to have a fun experience you will always remember! It’s open to adults of all ages and runs over 3 months – plenty of time to master your new hobby. Limited Places To maintain our high standards of tuition, classes are restricted to small numbers – so places are limited! For information on dates, course fees and bookings, call now on

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The last summer Tenants I

’ve bid a fond farewell to my wasps. They have been our constant companions all through the summer and what interesting house mates they have been. I shall miss the ‘purring’ sound they made when cooling their nest, wings of the occupants all thrumming at once. We would look up and half expect the Cheshire cat from Alice in Wonderland to be grinning down on us. Friends and visitors gave dire warnings that our wasps would turn on us in some Hitchcock “Birds” type scenario; I even had to stand guard over a friend doing some work in the porch using power tools. The wasps didn’t so much as bother to come and check out what was going on.

collected from an outside rail and made into pulp. The result was something resembling a wave that had been turned to stone; fascinating and beautiful. Now they have all died except for the new queens who have been seeking places to hibernate in the house; I have gently escorted them to the open window not wishing a repeat of my hornet experience when I get into bed one night next spring, only to be stung by a sleepy queen wasp. When they awake they will begin the cycle of wasp life once more playing their part, however small, in the maintenance of life on this planet. Like the wasp colony the old year is dying. 2018 will, like all the years

before it, go out in a blaze of human over-consumption, from Halloween, Black Friday and finally the 25th of December. And then comes the eternal problem: what to do with those unwanted, unneeded purchases and presents and how to dispose of Halloween plastic costumes most of which can’t be recycled. In October The World Wildlife Fund reported that sixty percent of nature has been lost. This is worrying not least because nature gives us the air we breathe, food and medicines. And yet we are so careless with our natural world so quick to destroy the one thing we really do need. article & photographs by Geraldine Woods-Humphrey

‘You wait until September, they’ll get nasty then.’ we were told. September came and went and cordial relations between human and wasp were maintained despite the possibilities of insect intoxication from fermenting windfall apples. They did not see us as a danger. We didn’t bother them, and they didn’t bother us. So successful were these busy, gardeners’ friends, that by late summer they were beginning to construct an annex along the top of the kitchen window, a beautifully sculptured piece made from wood, tinyThe slivers of which were largely Link

White Chocolate, Orange & Cranberry Christmas Cake Why not try sponge instead of fruit cake this Christmas? This white chocolate cake is a crowd-pleaser and you can buy the meringue decorations, or bake them yourself. INGREDIENTS

For the cake 300g salted butter, chopped 200g white chocolate , finely chopped 500g plain flour 4 tsp baking powder 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 500g white caster sugar 300ml natural yogurt 4 tsp vanilla extract 1 large orange , zested and juiced 6 large eggs 4 tbsp milk For the compote 200g cranberries 150g white caster sugar For the icing 200g white chocolate, finely chopped 500g salted butter , softened 750g icing sugar, sifted 280g cream cheese To decorate meringue kisses (shop-bought, or home made *), edible snowflake decorations and gold leaf (optional) * see recipe on the next page Serves 20

METHOD

y Heat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Rub a little butter over the base and sides of two 20cm cake tins (use cake tins rather than sandwich tins as the higher sides work better), then line the base and sides with baking parchment. y Melt 150g butter with 100g of the chocolate in a bowl set over a small saucepan of gently simmering water – make sure the base of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the butter and chocolate every minute or so until it has melted. Set aside to cool a little. y Meanwhile, measure 250g flour, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp bicarb and 250g sugar in a large bowl. y Make a well in the middle and add 150g yogurt, 2 tsp vanilla extract, half the orange zest and juice, 3 eggs and 2 tbsps milk. Whisk everything together, then stir in the melted butter and chocolate. y When the cake mixture is smooth (this makes a very wet, pourable batter), divide it equally between the two cake tins. y Bake on the middle shelf for 25 to 30 minutes - they will look golden and evenly risen when cooked. Check they are done by pushing a skewer into the centre of the cakes – it should come out clean. If there is any wet cake mixture on the skewer, return the cake to the oven for a few more mins, then check again.

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y Leave the cakes to cool in their tins for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. y Wash out the tins and make two more sponges, using the remaining cake ingredients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; four cakes in total. (you can make them a day or two before icing, then wrap them in a double layer of cling film once cool - they can also be frozen for up to two months.) y To make the compote: Simmer the cranberries and sugar in a small pan for 4 to 5 minutes until jammy, then leave to cool. y For the icing: Melt the chocolate, either in 20 to 30 second bursts in a microwave or in a bowl over simmering water. Set aside to cool a little. Roughly mash the butter and icing sugar together, then beat until smooth with an electric mixer. Add the chocolate and cream cheese and beat again until smooth. y To assemble the cake: Place one sponge on a cake board the same size as the sponge, then

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sandwich the other sponges on top with a little icing and the cranberry compote. Use the cake with the neatest edge, flipped upside down, on top to give your cake a good shape. y Pile about half the remaining icing on top of the cake and use a palette knife to spread it thinly over the top and down the sides of the cake. (this is a crumb coat - it catches any crumbs, ensuring the final layer looks clean and professional.) y Chill the cake for 10 to 20 minutes to firm up the icing or leave it somewhere cool for longer. y Once the icing is firm, use the remaining icing to give the cake another coat, using a palette knife to give a clean smooth finish. Chill again for another 10 to 20 minutes. Will keep for three days. y To decorate the cake: Dot the top with meringue kisses, edible snowflake decorations and gold leaf, if you like.

Home from Hospital support

scheme aptly called Home from Hospital Packs has just been launched to provide support to predominately older people, being discharged from the Dene Hospital. It has been developed by a joint working group involving Caterham Rotary Club, Surrey County Council’s adult social care team in Tandridge and Waitrose Caterham. The need was identified by the Adult Social Care Team based at Caterham Dene hospital who had observed that a number of patients often living alone were

arriving home without having the bare essentials of items like milk, tea, bread, breakfast cereal toothpaste etc. A process has been set up where the hospital will advise both Caterham Rotary and Waitrose of a patient being discharged, and the aim will be to fill a special shopping bag straightaway and for the goods to be given to the person on discharge from the hospital. Marnie Cotterill, Social Care Development Coordinator with Tandridge Social Care Team

commented “we are really grateful to the Caterham Rotary Club and Waitrose & Partners for supporting this idea. It will really benefit those in need at a time when they may feel at their most vulnerable and ensure a more comfortable first 24 hours following their discharge from hospital.” Mel Few, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “This is a great example of how working in partnership is benefiting people in Surrey and will really help those in need by making sure they feel comfortable on their return home from hospital.” Caterham Rotary’s project leader, Geoff Loveday responded saying “We are very pleased to be able to support this initiative which has recognised a real need in our community.” photo from left to right: Geoff Loveday (Caterham Rotary); Julie Cox (Waitrose); Christina Chick (The Dene Hospital); Marnie Cotterill (Tandridge Social Services) & Jacqui Van Noort (Floor Manager at Waitrose & Partners), viewing the special bags and essential goods.

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What's on ... in December & January Saturday 1st December to Monday 7th January The Wind in the Willows The classic tale of friendship and bravery. When Mole abandons spring cleaning for the delights of the riverbank, he has no idea of the adventures that lie ahead. With Toad's obsession for all things fast causing chaos (poop, poop!), it falls upon his friends Ratty, Mole and wise old Badger to save him. But that means coming face to face with the ferrets and weasels of the Wild Wood… In this delightful adaptation of Kenneth Grahame's classic story of friendship and bravery, this winter warmer will take you on a journey through the seasons. A wonderfully funny tale brought to life with music, songs and the usual Polka magic! To check dates, times and prices, see website: https://fantasticforfamilies. com/events/5351/2018-11-09/the-wind-in-thewillows. Polka Theatre, 240 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1SB. Wednesday 5th December Munch with Music St John's Church, Caterham Valley. Bletchingley Community Choir. Admission Free - Donations welcome. Tea/Coffee from 12.15pm. Performance 12.45pm to 1.30pm. You are invited to bring your own "Munch". The next Munch with Music will be on Wednesday 6th February 2019. Saturday 8th December Annual Christmas Fair You are invited to join the Caterham Dene Hospital League of Friends at our annual Christmas Fair at the United Reformed Church, Harestone Valley Road, Caterham. 10am until 2pm. Handmade garments, jewellery, cakes, jams, festive chocolates, etc. Look no further for presents for the whole family. Light lunches served from 12 noon with tea/coffee all day. Saturday 8th December Purley Indoor Boot Sale Friendly indoor boot sale with 32 stalls in a large church hall. A wide variety of sellers: Bargain second-hand goods, jewellery, cheap antiques/collectables and much, much more. Come along and see what you can find. 10am

3434

to 12noon. Buyers 50p (Early buyers from 9.30am £3). Sellers - tables are provided & must be pre-booked - £15 each (plus £3 if you bring a clothes rail). Street parking is free on all local roads. To hire a table call: 07863 114850 or judywhittaker@hotmail.com. More info: www. adrian-frost.co.uk. St Mark’s Church Hall, Church Road, off Peaks Hill, Purley, Surrey, CR8 3QQ. Saturday 8th December Christmas Tree Festival Coffee Morning Join us at our coffee morning to launch this our twelfth Christmas Tree Festival. Once again we will be having decorated and lit trees in our Church, sponsored by local businesses and organisations. You will have an opportunity to vote for the one you feel has been decorated in the best way to reflect their business or activity. Voting will also take place at our evening events. We have 3 nights of entertainment planned for all tastes, so come along and join in the fun. Free Admission 10am - 12noon. Tel: 020 8669 3676. Carshalton Methodist Church, Ruskin Road, Surrey, SM5 3DE. Saturday 8th December Kingswood Big Band Christmas Dance Back by popular demand! Kingswood Big Band present an evening of ballroom, swing, Latin, jive, and rock 'n roll at Banstead Community Hall. Dance to the sounds of Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Sammy Nestico, Neal Hefti and others. Non-dancers always welcome - just come and enjoy the Band in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You are welcome to bring your own drinks and refreshments. A raffle will be held in aid of EMEF (Epsom Medical Equipment Fund) (Registered Charity No. 1004977). Details of this charity can be found on their website: www.emef.org.uk/. Dance starts at 8pm (doors open 7.30pm) Tickets must be purchased in advance and cost £13 each. Tel: 020 8768 1115. Banstead Community Hall, Park Road, Banstead, Surrey, SM7 3AJ. Monday 10th December Quiz Night Come along and join us for a bit of fun and test

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your knowledge! Enter individually or as a team. Doors open 7pm, start time 7.30pm. Tickets £10 which includes fish, chicken or vegetarian burger with chips. Tel: 07866 969147. Carshalton Methodist Church Ruskin Road, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3DE. Friday 14th December A Christmas Ceilidh Join the Knock-kneed Bumblebee Band with their caller Peter Roud for this live music event. Enjoy dancing among the lit Christmas trees .A fun night is guaranteed! Doors open 7.15pm with dancing starting at 7.30pm. Tickets £12, under 16s £6 - this includes supper and refreshments. Profits will be split 50/50 with the Church and the band. Tel: 07866 969147. Carshalton Methodist Church Ruskin Road, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 3DE. Saturday 15th December Christmas Concert East Surrey Choral Society (ESCS) are holding their Christmas concert at St John’s Church Canons Hill Old Coulsdon CR5 1HA at 7.30pm. The programme includes the glorious Christmas music from Handel’s Messiah along with a wide selection of carols. We shall be joined by young professional soloists from the Guildhall School of Music. Tickets on the door or on line at www:escs.org.uk. Adults £10 (includes programme & refreshments) children under 14 free. Saturday 15th December Simon Goodall & the Bourne Again Shadows Simon Goodall and the Bourne Again Shadows are performing at the Barn on Saturday 15th December at 7.45pm. They are the most authentic Cliff and the Shadows tribute act in the UK. Simon’s ability to catch the characteristics of Cliff’s voice is second to none (even Sir Cliff himself has said so), while the Bourne Again Shadows sound is hard to distinguish from the original Shadows’ recordings. Their performance features classic Cliff numbers like Summer Holiday and Living Doll, and all the Shadows’ big hits like Apache, Kontiki and Wonderful Land. But don’t take our word for it, check out their recordings

and testimonials at www.cliffshadowstribute. co.uk Tickets costing just £18 are available from 01959 561811 or www.barntheatreoxted.co.uk. Barn Theatre, 25 Bluehouse Lane, Oxted, Surrey, RH8 0AA. Thursday 10th January The Arts Society Croydon Area Meet Monthly (2nd Thursday) at 10.15am. All Saints Church Hall, Sanderstead. No meeting in December. 10th January Photography as Fine Art. For further details please phone 02086572496 or email janice.brunger@ outlook.com Saturday 26th January Oxted Comedy When did you last have good laugh? Well come to Oxted Comedy on Saturday 26th January at 7.45pm and enter the wonderful world of Angelos Epithemiou. He's gone from frying onions in a burger van to rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous. So, what’s in your bag, Angelos? Will the contents of the Sainsbury’s plastic bag, always carried by Angelos, scorekeeper on the BBC's comedy series Shooting Stars be revealed? Make sure you're there to find out! Tickets: super early bird £10, early bird £12.50 or advance £15 are available from www.barntheatreoxted.co.uk or 01959 561811. Barn Theatre, 25 Bluehouse Lane, Oxted, Surrey, RH8 0AA. Sunday 27th January Carshalton Wedding Fair We are back with our Annual wedding fair in Carshalton at The Oaks Golf Club. We have everything you could need for your big day, from dresses, flowers and stationery to entertainment and transport. If you are planning a wedding, party or an important event then this is the place to be inspired! Suppliers will all be local and will be there to help inspire couples on their magical day. You can also get a view of Oaks Golf club who are licensed for civil partnerships. Come along and see some of Inspire’s best suppliers in action. 11am to 3pm. Free Admission. Tel: 07495 214618. The Oaks Sports Centre, Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton, Surrey, SM5 4AN.

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www.caterhamdistricthorticulturalsoc.weebly.com www.facebook.com/cat.hortisoc

December December is a special month, when families and friends, celebrate time together. A month of goodwill and cheer, and the shortest day of the year, is in December. Evergreens, come into their own at this time of the year, when there is a shortage of flower colour. Simple decorations, can be made by spraying branches and cones with silver and gold paint. Numerous berries can add colour. Inspect the produce you have stored and use some of it over the Christmas period. Items that are showing signs of deterioration, should be disposed off. Hardier varieties of vegetables in the garden could be shared with family and friends. E.g. Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots,

Cauliflower, Leeks, Parsnips & Greens. Study catalogues and draw up designs and plans for the New Year. Create your own monthly garden Planner. Crop rotation especially for vegetables is important. It prevents a build-up of pests and helps to improve the fertility of the soil. There are essential winter tasks to be undertaken: r Keep improving your soil with organic matter. r Stakes, ties supports and covers should already be in place to protect shrubs, plants and young trees from winter damage. r Prune Apple, Medlar, Quince, Pear, Gooseberries, Currants, & Autumn Raspberries.

r Protect outdoor Nectarines & Peaches from Leafcurl with Glass/Plastic/Polythene. r Winter wash fruit trees & bushes. r Sow Broad beans in pots under cover. r Still time to grow garlic. r Sow seeds indoors for early crops – Lettuce, Summer Brassica, Spinach, Salad Onions & Turnips. r Clean Greenhouses & planting equipment. r Harvest Citrus fruit when mature. r All Greenhouse heaters should be in good working condition. r Make sure there is adequate Food and Water for the birds

January January is considered to be the coldest month in the year. It is now mid-winter and it is extremely important that all the beautiful plants in your garden, should be protected from adverse weather conditions. Light will improve and the days will gradually lengthen, but do protect your plants till conditions improve. The quality of your produce, will benefit, from all the humus and organic matter that you introduce into your soil. During a dry spell,

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dig up the soil and expose the clods for the frosts to break it down to a fine tilth. Any exposed insect eggs will either be eaten by the birds or killed by the freezing temperatures. The branches from the Christmas Tree could be shredded and used as a mulch to protect tender shoots.

CAROL SERVICE IN

During this dormant period, it would be ideal to prune deciduous Shrubs, Trees and Fruit trees.

ST LAWRENCE’S CHURCH CHURCH HILL CATERHAM

If you have not already done so, spray Winter Tar Oil on Fruit trees and tie sticky Bands to trap winter moths. Wood ashes are ideal for use as a fertilizer for Iris and other Alkaline plants. Inspect stored tubers of Begonia, Canna and Dahlia before they rot or dry out. Start forcing Rhubarb. Get your garden tools ready for the Spring. Sharpen and oil tools such as Shovels, Shears, Mowers and other cutting implements if you have not done so. Mowers can be serviced and tuned. Check all house and greenhouse plants for insects. Dust on foliage can clog the leaf spores so clean them with a damp cloth. Growing plants like a liquid plant food. Cold nights affect window plants drastically. So protect them or move them temporarily to a sheltered spot.

TUESDAY 11TH DECEMBER AT

8 PM WITH

THE CROYDON CITADEL SALVATION ARMY BAND FOLLOWED BY

WINE AND MINCE PIES

G HUMPHREY

ROOFING Caterham

• Tiling • Slating • uPVC Fascias & Soffits • Flat roofing • Guttering

• Lead Flashings • General Repairs • Chimneys repointed

Family business - husband and wife team Call Gary or Alison

01883 349439 - 07966 467498 A very Happy Christmas and New Year to all our readers The Link

garyroofer@aol.co.uk

SUDOKU Fill in the blank squares so that each line, each row and each mini square contains the numbers 1 - 9 without duplicating the same number in any row, line or square

3 3

7 4

4 4 9

2 1

BACKWARDS

Cross out some of the squares in a symmetrical pattern to make a completed crossword that matches the clues given. Watch out - the clues aren't in the right order!

Across

Down

Speck

Cocktail fruit

Second-hand

Chummy

Peace pact

Piece of furniture

Naked figures

Large cat

Merger

Pair

Reverberate

Curve

Playing area

Play a guitar

Scuffle

Difficult

Wager

Consumed

Send

Russian ruler

Ship's overhaul

Large dog

Merriment

Relaxation

Grow old

Terminus

Age

African antelope

Light beer

Sheep

Scour

Hive dwellers

Unit of length

Wild

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CHRISTMAS TRIVIA

NUMBER WORKOUT

(answers on page 46)

Fit the numbers 1-6 once in every hexagon so that where the hexagons touch, the numbers are the same. No number is repeated in any hexagon.

After leaving Bethlehem, to which country did

Joseph, Mary, and Jesus travel?

1 2

2. How does Santa Claus go back up the chimney to continue his journey of delivering gifts?

5 3 6

3. What are the four colours most associated with Christmas? 4. What snack is traditionally left out for Father Christmas?

5. When does the Russian Orthodox Church celebrate Christmas?

6. In the carol, “Jingle Bells,” what kind of a sleigh is mentioned?

8. Which is the most famous Christmas ballet of all time?

3 4

1 6

9. Which Christmas carol’s second verse begins with “The cattle are lowing”?

4 1

3 2

10. Of all the popular Christmas songs, which is the best-selling single of all time?

12. What would you be drinking if you had ‘Glühwein’?

KAKURO Fill in the blank squares, ensuring that the numbers add up to the number in the grey box to the left of the row or above the line. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used and no number can be repeated in the same row or line.

13. Which type of tree was the partridge sitting in, according to a well-known Christmas song?

14. When was the first Christmas card sent? Who designed it?

15. How do you say “Merry Christmas” in Spanish?

16 35

16. What are three other names for Father Christmas?

19. Where did the Nativity take place? 20. Is there a Mrs. Santa Claus? The Link

28 22 12 24

17. Which country was the first to use the tradition of Christmas trees? 18. How many days do we have between Christmas and the Epiphany?

5 3

7. On the tenth day of Christmas, what does my true love give to me?

11. Which of Santa’s reindeer is named after another animal?

6 2

25 17 16

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The Arrogance of Authority!! A DEA officer stopped at a ranch in Texas, and spoke to an old rancher. He told the rancher, "I need to inspect your ranch for illegally grown drugs." The rancher said, "Okay, but don't go in that field over there", as he pointed out the location. The DEA officer verbally exploded saying, "Mister, I have the authority of the Federal Government with me!" Reaching into his back pocket, he removed his badge and proudly displayed it to the rancher. "See this badge?! This badge means I am allowed to go wherever I wish . . . on any land!! No questions asked or answers given!! Have I made myself clear . . . do you understand ?!!" The rancher nodded politely, apologized, and went about his chores. A short time later, the old rancher heard loud screams, looked up, and saw the DEA officer running for his life, being chased by the rancher's big Santa Gertrudis bull. With every step the bull was gaining ground on the officer, and it seemed likely that he'd sure enough get gored before he reached safety. The officer was clearly terrified.

The rancher threw down his tools, ran to the fence and yelled at the top of his lungs, "Your badge, show him your BADGE!!"

All Saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Church Kenley LV KROGLQJ LWV VHFRQG

Christmas Tree Festival RQ Saturday 15th December

*******

Anyone for golf . . . ??

There will be Live Music throughout the day; Seasonal Food and refreshments; Home Produce and Cake Stalls; Crafts for the children and young at heart; and, of course, wonderfully decorated trees!

So do come along and enjoy the festivities and celebrate Christmas! Doors open at 10am; festival ends at 4pm. Entry ÂŁ1 per adult; no charge for children. For further details please contact: office@saintb.org.uk All Saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Church, Church Road, Kenley CR8 5DJ

A golfer teed up his ball on the first tee, took a mighty swing and hit his ball into a clump of trees. He found his ball and saw an opening between two trees he thought he could hit through. Taking out his 3-wood, he took a mighty swing. The ball hit a tree, bounced back, hit him in the forehead and killed him. As he approached the gates of Heaven, St. Peter asked, "Are you a good golfer?" The man replied: "Got here in two, didn't I?

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Bathroom Designs to suit your needs Small Flats, Multiple Bathrooms, Adapted Living, Family Bathroom, Shower and Wet Rooms

premierheatingsupplies.co.uk

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Premier Heating Supplies 52 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 54 Godstone Road, Whyteleafe, Surrey, CR3 0EA | T: 020 8763 1013 | www.premierheatingsupplies.co.uk Mead Lane, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8NJ | T: 01932 566332 | www.premierheatingsupplies.co.uk

The Link

HELP & SUPPORT

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x Computer Training x Free Family Law Advice x Age UK and Advices Services Croydon (ASC) x Free Legal & Will Advice x Citizen Advice Referrals x Tax Help for Older People x Nail Cutting (Age UK) + more

020 8668 4189 24 High Street, Purley, Surrey, CR8 2AA

New Opening times: Monday – Thursday 10 – 4 Friday 10 – 2

info@purleycrosscentre.org www.purleycrosscentre.org The Link

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

index of advertisers Architectural Services Walk-In Architecture

Bathrooms & Kitchens Boyden Tiles & Bathrooms Dream Doors Premier Heating Supplies Price Kitchens

3 13 41 9

Building & Construction MDG Brickwork P.R. Jones Scaffolding

14 33

DVD & Video Services Carlton Video & DVD Services Cleaning Services Michael Heyburn - Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Oven Sheen Community Services Caterham Domiciliary Care Memory Cafe South East Cancer Help Centre St Catherine's Hospice

47 15 33 2 8 23 & 47

Computer Maintenance Computer Solutions

Conservatories, Doors & Windows The Surrey Glazing Company

Dance Classes Dancezing

Dating Old Style Dating

Dry Cleaners Capital on-the-hill

Handyman The Handyman Heating & Plumbing JD Plumbing Premier Heating Supplies Surrey Plumbing Services

40 41 33

Health & Beauty Pilates with Jenny

Holiday Camps Qacademy

Kitchens & Bathrooms Boyden Tiles & Bathrooms Dream Doors Premier Heating Supplies Price Kitchens

3 13 41 9

Metalwork H-F Metal Workers

Oven Cleaning Oven Sheen

Pet Care Anwell Veterinary Centre

Plumbing & Heating JD Plumbing Premier Heating Supplies Surrey Plumbing Services

40 41 33

Recipe of the Month White Chocolate, Orange & Cranberry Christmas Cake

Restaurants Chez Vous

15 22

Education & Courses Season Art Class Sutton High School

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Electricians Arenn Electrical

Roofing * +XPSKUH\ 5RRÂżQJ *LOODP 5RRÂżQJ 5RRÂżQJ 5HSDLUV 5HQHZDOV

Estate Agents Park & Bailey

Stamp Dealers John Curtin Ltd

Veterinary Practices Anwell Veterinary Centre

Gardening & Landscaping Caterham & District Horticultural Society The Link

Answers to to puzzles on page 38:

Trivia 1.

Egypt

2. He places his finger on the side of his nose, gives a smile and a nod. 3. Red, green, gold and silver 4. Cookies and milk 5. January 7th 6. “A one-horse open sleigh” 7. Ten lords a-leaping 8. The Nutcracker 9. “Away In a Manger”

Backwards

10. “White Christmas” 11. Vixen (a fox)

C H A

12. Mulled wine

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13. Pear

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14. The first Christmas card was sent in 1843 and was designed by John Horsley.

D O T O A

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O N

E W N

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15. Feliz Navidad 16. Santa Claus, Saint Nick and Kris Kringle 17. Germany

18. Twelve

A H O R

T O T

19. Bethlehem

R U C

20. Yes. She helps the elves make the presents!

E O N A

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Sudoku

Kakuro

2 7

6 1

5 4

4 8

9 3

1 5

8 9

3 2

7 6

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To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk

Care for the next generation

To ﬁnd out more: 01293 447333 Registered charity no: 281362

The Link

andyperry@stch.org.uk www.stch.org.uk

Please remember St Catherine’s in your will. It costs nothing today, to provide care tomorrow.

We’ll be there, when life comes full circle.

Call our team of local property experts for a personalised market consultation. 01883 342205 Visit our website at www.parkandbailey.co.uk

To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: info@grapevinepublications.co.uk