Charing July 2017

village directory

The 97

July 2017 Delivered FREE to 4,000 homes in TN27 by Royal Mail

for the Charing Area

“Dr Shah clearly enjoys and takes pride in his profession, and makes dentistry seem like an art-form.

It puts into context how our teeth are to be treasured, and saved before its too late.�

Mrs L H

est. 1996

Wye Dental Surgery

01233 812 281 info@wyedental.co.uk or search Wye Dental Surgery online

Quality, Made to Measure Blinds at Affordable Prices FREE HOME DESIGN SERVICE

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Roller Blinds Roman Blinds Vertical Blinds Venetian Blinds Wooden Blinds Pleated Blinds Shutters Conservatory Blinds Commercial Blinds

■■ 1 Year Product Guarantee ■■ 3 Year Installation Guarantee

We Also Sell Curtains & Awnings For more information or to book an appointment

Call: 01233 226570 QUALITY KITCHEN FACELIFTS

E: info@jlsblinds.co.uk W: www.jlsblinds.co.uk

The simple way to a new kitchen EST.

Before

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• From a simple door swap to a complete kitchen refit • Huge choice of doors, worktops, appliances, sinks & taps • Installed by local skilled tradesman • Free planning & design service

CALL FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE:

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Visit our showroom: 48 Cinque Ports Street, Rye, TN31 7AN

Welcome Hi everyone, welcome to the July edition. We are at the height of summer. The days are long, the nights are warm and it’s a great time to make the most of those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer! I’ve taken to working in the open air, if I have to work on a weekend I’m going to do it in style! My husband, on the other hand, is in the house watching the rugby on TV, then next week I suppose it will be Formula 1 racing, thank goodness he’s not a big Tennis fan, with Wimbledon beginning soon it could be August before he leaves the house! When he does emerge into the sunshine he’ll find plenty of gardening to get him moving again, the perfect antidote to lounging on the sofa.

This month kids everywhere are looking forward to the prospect of 6 weeks off school, I remember that feeling so well, unfortunately it’s not quite the same for the parents, especially when they have to juggle work. When I was in my teens my mum worked part-time and I was left in charge of my two younger brothers for a few hours while she went to work. My brother had a pet hamster at the time, who very sadly passed away while I was in charge. We were all so upset and, very unwisely, decided to call my mum at work to tell her what had happened.

Unfortunately, all we could say through our floods of tears was “he’s dead”, he’s dead”! My poor mum was at the other end of the phone screaming “who’s dead”, who’s dead”, thinking something had happened to my youngest brother. “Hammy” we cried. I think we almost lost my mum that day too, as a result of a cardiac arrest! I sincerely hope no other parent has a similar experience this summer!

Until next time, have a great month.

Debbie T: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk e: events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk w: www.thevillagedirectory.co.uk August Issue Deadline 10th July 2017

Nuin Counselling

Therapeutic Counselling for Adults & Children Louise Barrow MBACP DIP TC www.nuincounselling.co.uk info@nuincounselling.co.uk 07952 126 399

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

07764 193492 n_eturnercleaning@yahoo.com

Bens Dog Walking Ser vices

Professional Pet Service in Ashford Dog Walking, Pet Sitting & Vet Trips FULLY Insured & Police Checked Call 07794 744 612 www.bensdogwalkingservices.webs.com bensdogwalking@outlook.com

Oshens HairBoutique 100 Bridge Street, Wye

For An Appointment Please Call

01233 811981 Closed Wednesday

FIT, FUN & FABULOUS Come along and join my Circuit Training & Bootcamp Classes in Smarden and Cranbrook 9-10am weekdays and Wednesday evenings 7-8pm in Smarden.

All fitness levels welcome. £6/session - first session FREE Able to arrange One-on-One personal training sessions at your home or in small groups with me, Vicky Hunt, internationally Qualified Trainer.

Need a training programme to achieve a lifetime goal i.e. a 5km/half marathon, Tough Mudder?

Call or message me on 07776 181 034 or email on:

vicky@goandco.co.uk

Make positive life changes

• Life Changes • Confidence • Improved Relationships • Better Communication • Stress Management • Health & Wellbeing • Self-esteem • Overcome Fears, Phobias & Traumas Yvonne Fernando Certified NLP Master Practitioner & Life Coach T : 01233 878474 M: 07968 785714 www.yvonnefernandonlp.co.uk

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Safe Journey

by Pippa Greenwood

Now that the weather is really summery, everyone is rushing to their local garden centres, garden shows and nurseries to stock up on new plants for the garden.

Before you get too carried away, don’t forget to make sure that the plants you buy have a good chance of surviving, not only once they get home, but also during the journey there. It is amazing how many plants are seriously damaged in the short period of time between leaving the garden centre and arriving in the new owner’s garden. If you really want to ensure that everything goes smoothly, it’s worth taking a few very sensible precautions.

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you can take something home the day you buy it if it is really far too large to fit in your car.

The number of plants I have seen travelling home sticking out through the 4

sunroof of a car is quite amazing. In a position like this, however slowly you drive, the foliage is going to be scorched and damaged and it is quite possible that a not too pliable stem may be broken. If a plant doesn’t fit in your car easily, then take advantage of the delivery service - almost all garden centres now offer delivery and this is usually free of charge within a reasonable radius. Admittedly it may mean that you have to wait until the delivery day for your area, but it is much better than seriously damaging your plant as you attempt to get it home yourself.

If the plant does fit in your car then remember to wrap the root ball in a black bin liner or a box, to prevent the back of your car becoming full of compost, grit etc.

Always use the garden centre as the last port of call

before travelling home, as in hot weather temperatures build up fantastically fast in a closed car, even if you leave the windows or the sunroof open. Under these conditions the plants can soon be boiled alive, literally!

Plants in the boot should be safer for a slightly longer period of time, but even then you should try to travel straight home once you have made your purchases.

If you are absolutely determined to take something home that protrudes slightly from your car, then it is essential that you wrap up anything which is sticking out really well to prevent leaf scorch and damage to fine twigs.

The garden centre should be able to provide you with something (and if not do you should do it yourself ), but make sure that it is tied down extremely well so that it can’t blow off on the way home. Remember that

The Garden anything protruding from your car could potentially cause a driving hazard to other road users, so bear this in mind before you do anything too foolhardy!

Even on a short journey home, plants which are exposed to exaggerated heat inside a car or the scorching effect of sunlight travelling through the car glazing can be seriously damaged, so cover them up with something to decrease the risk. It is worth taking a few old newspapers with you when you go to the garden centre, as these make perfect temporary tents.

Remember that most

plants prefer fairly constant conditions, so try not to put them through too many changes in a short space of time. Ideally, take them from one area in the garden centre to somewhere similar in your garden, and keep any travelling during hot weather to a minimum. If they look at all damaged from their journey then give them a week or two to recuperate in dappled shade in a protected position in your garden.

And don’t forget that when you plant anything new in your garden, if the weather is at all dry it is well worth waiting until the evening or at least late afternoon before

planting. Then make sure that everything is kept well watered, as this will increase the chances of the plants establishing without too much distress.

Visit Pippa’s website www.pippagreenwood. com for a really useful selection of favourite gardening items including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls and copper tape, pullout EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides.

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Tree Surgery & Freelance Climbing www.mr-hills-trees.co.uk

All Tree & Hedge Work Hard & Soft Landscaping All Aspects of Gardening

Top quality materials. Top quality service.

Supply + Install. FREE QUOTATIONS. T : 01233 877 521 | M : 07710 179 600 enquiries@woodchurchfencing.co.uk www.woodchurchfencing.co.uk

Experienced, NPTC qualified 01233 349 012 & insured Reliable, local, affordable & efficient 07496542362 Quality service & friendly advice Book your free, no obligation quote today!

T: 01233 840267 M: 07812 197655

 Patios Footpaths • Artificial Grass • Patios  Driveways • Footpaths Driveway Repairs • Driveways • Driveway Repairs • Block Paving  Block Paving Driveway Extensions • Driveway Extensions • Car Parks  Car Parks  Concrete Pads • Sports Courts • Concrete Pads  Sports Courts Groundwork • Groundwork • Fencing  Patios  Fencing  Footpaths t: 01233 349 012 m: 07496 542362  Artificial Grass  Driveways  Driveway Repairs www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co.uk

01233 349 012 07496542362

 Block Paving  Driveway Extensions www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co.  Car Parks  Concrete Pads Open Weekend Dates  Sports Courts for 2017  Groundwork PLUCKLEY ROAD BETHERSDEN KENT Future Open Weekends  Fencing www.stonegreennurseries.co.uk 25th, 26th, 27th & 28th  Artificial Grass Wholesale Nursery Open to the Public

August

More Dates to Follow.

30th June, 1st & 2nd July www.kentsurfacingcontractors.co.uk Truly a Gardeners

We grow our vast range of plants with passion and pride for garden designers, landscapers, local nurseries, farm shops and other horticulture outlets.

We have a truly exquisite range to offer you from the tried and tested to the more unusual. You will be making your selection direct from our growing beds!

You can’t buy fresher. Fantastic range and fair prices.

Should you need help with your selection we also have knowledgeable staff to help answer your questions.

*Shrubs* Trees* Herbaceous Perennials * Climbers * Large Plants for Instant Impact* Pluckley Road Bethersden TN26 3ET 6

Paradise!

Please remember we are only open on these dates.

We accept most major credit cards

For detailed directions please see our website Follow day-glow signs from A20 at Charing and A28 at Bethersden

The Garden

All Seasons Garden Services

Over 20 years experience All aspects of garden care undertaken Fully insured

T: 01233 665322 M: 07941 205 374 Email: rob@ashford-gardening.co.uk

KILBYS CHIMNEY SWEEP

• Pots/Cowls/Birdguards Fitted Brush and Vac • Certificates Issued • Fully Insured • ICS Registered • Family Run, Est 1983

01233 840948 07756007428

T: 07776 453886

Lawn Care Turfing Garden Maintenance Hedges/ Borders

The Complete Landscape Service Professional Garden & Grounds Maintenance Country Estate Maintenance Paddock Maintenance: Mowing, Hedge Cutting, Spraying Wildflower Meadows Planting Plans & Garden Design Hard & Soft Landscaping Pond Renovation, Clearance & Maintenance Professionally trained & qualified 20+ Years of industry experience Call for a free quote today

allengardensolutions@btinternet.com

KILBYS PEST CONTROL • All Rodents and Insects • WASP NEST SPECIALIST • SAME DAY SERVICE

• 7 days a week • Fully Insured • Est 1983

01233 840948

07756007428

Vernon Harris Bsc Hort M: 07563 580 775 O: 01233 770668 E: vern@bghorticulture.co.uk www.bghorticulture.co.uk

 chartfencing.co.uk

Order online via our secure website

 01233 626 188

Call today for a free brochure

All your Fencing Needs and More..

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Chart Fencing is your one-stop shop for all things fencing. We’ve got the lot, including a massive range of fixings & ironmongery.

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Ashford Showroom Open Mon to Fri 7.30 - 5.00pm. Sat 8.30 - 12.00pm. Chart House, Dencora Way. Ashford TN23 4FH

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STANFORD Conservatory & Building COMPANY www.stanfordconservatories.co.uk All Work Fully Insured Start & Completion Times Guaranteed

• • • • •

Conservatories - Advice, design & CAD Paths, patios, driveways, block or paving Decking and Car Ports General building & renovations General Maintenance & Repairs

e: stanfordconservatories@gmail.com

01303 812889 • 07710 077711

STANFORD LANDSCAPING & PAVING COMPANY • All Block Paving types supplied and laid.

• Natural Stone supplied and laid • Decking Specialists • Full height glass or wood Gazebos / Barbecue Areas • Ponds and Patios • Free Design and Build Service

e: stanfordconservatories@gmail.com 8

01303 812889 • 07710 077711

Pets Corner

PETS

Pride & Groom

Beware Of Ticks When Walking Your Dog Ticks pose a serious health risk to your dog during the summer and early autumn months, particularly if you take them for walks through bracken and heather. If your dog has a long coat, a tick will barely be noticeable on the skin, so it’s important that you physically check their body when you finish your walk.

What does a tick look like?

Ticks are tiny spider-like creatures that attach themselves to a ‘host,’ and feed on their blood.

Once they start to feed, the tick increases in size and becomes more noticeable to the human eye.

Although it’s tempting to pull a tick from your dog, part of it is likely to remain under their skin which can have serious health consequences in the months that follow.

You can buy a dedicated tick remover from your local pet shop or veterinary practice. Although other methods of removing ticks exist, tick removers allow you to twist and pull the tick from your dog, bringing the entire body away.

Why are ticks dangerous to your pet?

Ticks cause Lyme disease, or Lyme borreliosis, in dogs, but signs of illness don’t commonly appear until several months after they have been bitten. Symptoms include: • High fever.

• Loss of appetite.

• Swelling of the joints.

• Swollen lymph nodes.

• Lethargy.

Once diagnosed, a prolonged course of antibiotics can be used to fight the infection, but some dogs may continue to experience recurring symptoms throughout their life. www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/ about-ticks/ stopthetick.co.uk/ www.peteducation.com/article. cfm?c=2+2102&aid=458

All Breeds of Dogs Groomed Includes: 66 Bath 66 Cut 66 Hand Strip 66 Glands & Nails

Groomer with 24 yrs Experience Call Carol:

07985 933647 / 01233 714188 Located in Charing

Advertise Here 25% OFF Quarter Page (£37.50 per month plus vat) Minimum 4 month booking.

Limited Offer

Tel: 01233 720488 e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk

By Ann Haldon

9

Home & Interiors Update Your Bathroom for Summer Take your pick of all sorts of fashionable new options, from graphic patterns to flamingo designs or marble and copper.

Little things (think loo roll holder and even the toilet seat and brush) can make a big difference.

You might want to think about adding an artwork to the walls, too, giving colour, pattern and a dramatic focal point.

Give your bathroom an appealing summer makeover with our easy-to-achieve tips.

A DASH OF PAINT Any room can be updated with a lick of paint, and bathrooms are no different. Choose specially formulated bathroom paint, which has a mid-sheen finish (easier to wipe down than matt emulsion) and resists moisture and steam, providing long-lasting protection against condensation and mould. Fresh white always looks great in a bathroom, while deeper shades such as charcoal or navy make a striking impact, and mid blues, greens or yellows are fresh and cheery.

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UPDATE YOUR ACCESSORIES Have your towels seen better days? Is your soap dish so last century? How much longer will your old shower curtain last?

REPLACE YOUR TAPS AND WASTES Tap styles go out of date and wastes get scratched and worn – but fortunately they are easy for a plumber to replace, and will give your room an instant, on-trend update. Take advice about the technical side of things – like water pressure and how far your taps should project over the basin – then choose styles that look great, function well and make you feel happy. At the same time you could save on bills by installing water-saving taps – and why not go for an aerated or lowflow showerhead, too?

CONCEAL CLUTTER No one wants to look at bleach and old flannels when they’re having a relaxing bath or an invigorating shower. If your bathroom is short on storage, the easiest way to create more space is with a slimline, wall-mounted cupboard (perhaps with a mirror on the door), though there are all sorts of other clever options, from racks and rails to shelves and hooks. Matching baskets, rows of glass jars and small wooden

By Katherine Sorrell

crates look very pretty and will help keep things tidy, while free-standing options such as caddies and towel ladders hold heaps of stuff and can be hugely convenient.

AT THE WINDOW If your bathroom window has seen better days, consider replacing a dull roller blind with something more interesting. You need privacy and practicality, but why not have something beautiful, too? Roman blinds, café curtains or wooden louvres or shutters are all good options, or you could go for a cheap and instant transformation with adhesive film, either plain frosted or one with a subtle pattern.

ADD A PLANT Not only are houseplants back in fashion once again, but they also make a great statement in a bathroom and have the added advantage – provide you choose the right type of plant – of absorbing some humidity and even reducing the levels of pollutants in the air. Look for plants that thrive in damp conditions and are happy with the level of light in your bathroom. Options include peace lilies, English ivy, reeds, palms and Boston ferns.

BRING IN MORE LIGHT Mirrors in bathrooms aren’t just for doing make-up – they also bounce light around the room and help make your smallest room feel brighter and more spacious. An oversized mirror will

be a statement piece as well as an essential element. While thinking of light, check that you’re happy with your bulbs. Swapping to LEDs will save money in the long run, and you may also be able to increase the light levels overall.

And if you don’t mind calling in an electrician for a quick job, you could consider changing your light fittings themselves for alternatives that are goodlooking and up-to-date. Just remember that they have to comply with safety regulations and be certified for use in a damp environment.

ATTACK OLD GROUT Recreate that brand-new bathroom feel by getting rid of discoloured grout – a simple DIY job that’s boring but shouldn’t take too long. It is always worth trying a thorough clean with

proprietary products first, but if the mould or stains won’t shift, buy a special grout rake from a hardware store (they cost just a few pounds) and work your way carefully around the room, removing the old grout to a depth of at least 2mm. Buy a pack of fresh new grout, mix and apply according to the instructions.

While you’re at it, take a careful look at your silicone sealants, too. If they are black and mouldy, carefully lift them off with a sharp knife, clean the area thoroughly, dry, and re-apply new sealant.

You’ll need a steady hand for this bit, so take a deep breath before you start, and if in doubt, search for an online video for guidance.

The Home

Right Image: Bespoke etcheffect window film AOPN 1, from £45 per square metre, Purlfrost: 020 8992 4024; www.purlfrost. com

Left Image: Turkish hammam towels in herringbone weave, £24.99 each, Sisters Guild: www. sistersguild.co.uk

Designer kitchens without the designer price tags!

Email: info@aloninteriors.co.uk Website: www.aloninteriors.co.uk

Now offering interest free credit* Terms and conditions apply*

Head Office & Showroom: Alon Interiors 785 London Road Larkfield ME20 6DE Tel:01732 843900

By Appointment Only: Alon Interiors Cobbs Wood Ind Estate Ashford TN23 1EJ

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The Flooring Specialists

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om 0 by our cust

d 9.9 out of 1 Proudly rate

SHOWROOM

at the top of Charing Hill, TN27 0NL 01233 714999 charingcarpets.co.uk

From start to finish we offer a complete, professional package to suit your very own requirements and budget.

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KITCHEN FITTING BATHROOM FITTING BEDROOM FITTING DECORATING

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Call Tony: 07979 220224 / 01233 610402 e: info@thornbys.co.uk www.thornbys.co.uk

HOMEFRESH CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Summer Special Offer 50% DISCOUNT

Also available SPECIALIST FABRIC TREATMENT STAINSHIELD - Protects against dirt and spills DEODORISING TREATMENT - leaves fabric smelling fresh ANTI ALLERGY TREATMENT - for asthma & allergy sufferers CONDITIONER - re-texturises your fabric

FREEPHONE 0800 6942024

Office Hours: 9am - 7pm (Saturday 10am - 1pm) 12

CARPETS (Average) Normal Rate SPECIAL RATE Single Room (12’ x 12’) £52 £26 Through Room (12’ x 18’) £66 £33 Hall, Stairs & Landing £66 £33 UPHOLSTERY 3 Piece Suite Leather 3 Piece Suite

£94 £156

£47 £78

CURTAINS Full Length £84 £42 Half Length £52 £26 NO HIDDEN EXTRAS - All prices inclusive of VAT

The Home JMP Electrical are a friendly and reliable family run business offering All Domestic & Commercial Electrical Works Whether you need a light replacing or a complete rewire, we are here to help.

All work undertaken.

Please call James for a FREE quotation

T: 01233 626081 M: 07976 616756 E: james@jmpelectrical.com W: www.jmpelectrical.com

Auctioneers

C&T

Valuers

Specialist Auctioneers & Valuers - Toys -Teddy Bears & Dolls -Military Items -Antique Collectibles -Coins -Memorabilia -Fountain Pens -Clocks & Watches

Free Valuations Every Thursday 11:00 - 3:00 Unit 4, High House Business Park, Kenardington, Ashford, Kent TN26 2LF

Tel: 01233 510050 Email: enquiries@candtauctions.co.uk

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CONSERVATORY REPAIRS RESOLVING LEAKS, REPAIRS, CLEANING & MAINTAINING

M & C Conservatory Maintenance ‘Restoring Perfection to Your Conservatory’

• Cleaning • Maintenance & Repairs • Leadwork & Guttering • New Roofs • Misted/Broken Down Glass Units • Painting & Varnishing • Fully Insured

www.mcconservatories.co.uk

For a Free Quote Please Call

012 3 3 50 0719 / 07 8 3 0 0 6 9 9 91

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Solid Style

Joinery Manufacturer • Listed Building & Conservation Work

• Doors & Windows • Mouldings & Repair Sections • Replacement Sashes & Casements

• Garage Doors • Equestrian Joinery T: 01233 731183 • Free Estimates E: solidjoinery@aol.com

www.cosystovesandfireplaces.co.uk Free yy Wood Burner Installations Surveys yy Chimney Sweeps yy Servicing T: 07387 576483 Main Road, Sellindge, Ashford, TN25 6EQ

A Fresh Approach to Business and Personal Legal Issues.

Your Peace of Mind Starts Today…

I am Ian Morris, Your Go to Lawyer.

I believe there is a better way to make the best legal advice available to every person who wants or needs it. My aim is to ensure that you, my client, can speak to me regarding any legal matter and I will offer you the best solution to suit your circumstances.

Just think of me as your "legal GP" to whom you can turn for advice and help with any legal problem.

With over 30 years of experience in the law, as Your Go To Lawyer I can help you with any legal issue and together with my hand picked team of experts will deliver a better quality service at half of the cost of other options you may be considering.

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• Family

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• Residential Conveyancing

• Civil Liberties

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Call: 01580 762248 Email: info@pengelly-rylands.co.uk www.pengelly-rylands.co.uk Visit: 39/41 High Street, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6BJ

For peace of mind, contact your

GO to Lawyer today...

As Your Go To Lawyer I will: • be open and transparent about fees and the time your case ought to take • involve experts at the earliest opportunity • make the process as stress-free as possible for you For more information or to make an enquiry, visit www.gotolawyer247.co.uk (where you can also read my latest article) or contact me now on 01233 808999 for a no-obligation discussion.

Professional Services

CALL US NOW ON: 01233 770850 www.banbury-group.co.uk

AUDIO VISUAL

AERIAL AND SATELLITE

Whether you are a primary school, local company or residential home owners, BANBURY AV are able to tailor an audio visual solution to meet your needs.

UNRIVALLED EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE AERIAL SATELLITE AND HOME ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY Our main objective is providing high quality service with competitive pricing.

Committed to providing the highest quality satellite, home entertainment & digital aerial installations and services to all our clients, ensuring you are fully satisfied with any aspect of service.

OFFICIAL AGENTS FOR SKY HD AND SKY+. ALSO OFFICIAL FREESAT & FREEVIEW AGENTS. Free estimates are provided and all work comes with a 12 month parts and labour guarantee.

FLEXIBLE APPPOINTMENTS ARE ARRANGED WITH YOU FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE This along with our competitive prices has kept our customers returning time and time again.

COUNTY PROBATE SERVICES Easing the Financial Stress

The loss of a loved one can be an emotional and overwhelming experience. The extra burden of obtaining Probate can often prove daunting.

Probate Probate has to be obtained in order to release the deceased person’s assets so that any Inheiritance Tax can be paid and the remainder of the estate distributed to beneficiaries, as directed by the deceased’s Will. If there is no Will then the estate will be distributed according to rules laid down by the Act of Parliament.

Cost Beware of banks and solicitors who charge a fixed percentage of the value of the deceased’s estate; typically 3% or 4%. This can amount to £12,000 + VAT on a relatively modest estate of £300,000.

We at County Probate Services would charge according to the time expended. In the example above the charge would be around £1,000 + VAT. CONTACT

01233 712112 - info@countyprobateservices.com 65 High Street, Charing, TN27 0LS

County Probate Services Limited is authorised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales to carry out the reserved legal activity of non-contentious probate in England & Wales

15

Cake and Bake Peach Crostata

A crostata is an Italian lattice-topped pie which can be sweet or savoury. This one has a fruity fresh peach filling. Serve with crème fraîche or ice cream.

Ingredients: PASTRY • 350g plain flour • 175g butter, chilled and diced • 2 tbsp caster sugar • 1 large egg, beaten with 2tbsp cold water FILLING • 6 peaches, halved, stones removed and thickly sliced • 2 tbsp caster sugar • 2 tsp cornflour • Milk to glaze • Icing sugar, to dust

Serves 6 Ready in 1 hour 15 minutes, plus chilling TIP

If you don’t have a pastry lattice roller, cut the rolled out pastry into thin strips and drape over the filling.

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1. To make the pastry, sift the flour into a large bowl. Add the

butter and rub in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar, add the egg and water, then stir with a knife until the mixture begins to stick together.

2. Gather the dough with one hand, turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few seconds until smooth.

Flatten into a round, wrap in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 200C, fan 180C, gas 6. Place a baking sheet in the oven to heat up.

4. Roll out about two-thirds of the pastry on a lightly floured surface to the thickness of a one pound coin and use to line a 23cm round pie dish.

5. Toss the peaches in a bowl with the sugar and cornflour then pile into the pastry case. Roll out the rest of the pastry to a 20cm circle and use a lattice pastry roller to cut slashes in the pastry (see tip).

6. Brush around the edge of the pastry case with a little water then drape the pastry circle over the filling, pulling it gently to create the lattice effect. Press the pastry edges together to seal and trim off any excess pastry.

7. Glaze the pastry with milk, then place on the hot baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Serve warm or cold, dusted with icing sugar.

Food & Domestic Services beautiful flowers & hops for all occasions

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Chalkpit Farm Rural Shopping, Bekesbourne, Nr Canterbury CT4 5EU Email: shop@essentiallyhops.co.uk Tel 01227 830666

www.hopsandflowers.co.uk

In Season: Vegetables Fruit Blackberries Cherries Currents Gooseberries Loganberries Raspberries Strawberries

Artichoke Aubergine Beetroot Beans Broccoli Carrots Courgettes Cucumber Garlic

Kohirabi Mangetout Onions Peas Potatoes (New) Radishes Rocket Spring Onions

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Meat & Game Beef Guinea Fowl Hare Lamb Mutton Pork Rabbit Veal Wood Pigeon

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Grange Road, St Michaels, Tenterden, Kent TN30 6TL

IN THE LOVELY KENT COUNTRYSIDE ®

TRADITIONAL HEREFORD BEEF ROMNEY & DORSET LAMB GLOUCESTER OLD SPOT PORK Bacon, Sausages, Burgers, Pies

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Tel: 01580 763 351 www.silcocksfarm-organics.co.uk

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Sticky Barbecue Chicken Wings Serves 4

Ready in 50 minutes

Chicken wings are a great budget buy and perfect for a TV dinner or speedy supper. Serve with a home-made coleslaw or rice salad for a more substantial meal.

Preheat the oven to 200C, 180 fan, gas 6.

Place the wings on a metal rack set over a roasting tin and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Ingredients: • • • • • •

1 kg chicken wings 8tbsp tomato ketchup 2tbsp Worcestershire sauce 3tbsp smooth mango chutney 2tsp Dijon mustard 1tbsp sunflower oil

FOR THE DIP

Meanwhile, make the sticky glaze by mixing together the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mango chutney, mustard and oil in a small bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

• 150ml soured cream • 2 spring onions, trimmed and finely chopped • 1tbsp fresh snipped chives

Remove the roasting tin from the oven and liberally brush the glaze all over the chicken wings.

TIP

You can cook the wings on a hot barbecue for an al fresco supper. It’s best to cook them in the oven for the first 15 minutes then glaze and just place them on the barbecue for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

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Return the roasting tin to the oven and roast the wings for a further 15-20 minutes until the wings are golden brown and slightly charred in places.

5

Mix together the dip ingredients in a small bowl. Serve with the chicken wings.

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Washing Machines Cookers (Electric) Tumble Driers Dyson Vacuum Specialist Call Garry on 07958 640152 01233 632329

Ashford Farmer’s Market First Sunday of every month from 10am to 2pm in the lower High Street.

Charing Farmer’s Market Charing Church Barn 9 -11.30 every Thursday morning. Contact 01233 740176 Egerton Every Friday 2 - 4.30pm Millennium Hall Rolvenden - 01580 240763 Every Thursday 10am -12 noon St Mary’s Church and the Village Hall Rye Farmers Market Every Wednesday at Strand Quay 10am - 1 pm (From Midday Oct - April) Rye Market Every Thursday at the Cattle Market Car Park. Early till around 3pm (depending on the weather)

Rye Country Market Formerly WI Market Rye Community Centre, Conduit Hill.

Every Friday 10am -11.30am

¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥

Unique professional intensive valet process Range & AGA specialist All ovens, hobs, extractor fans & microwaves Environmentally friendly, no toxic chemicals, no fumes Contact Richard at Ovenu Ashford 01233 380023 or 0800 1409800 See www.ovenu.co.uk for a video and more info Have you been cooking? Treat yourself to a clean oven!

Tenterden Country Market Every Friday 9.30am -11.00am St Mildred’s Church Hall, Church road.

Tenterden High Street Market Friday’s – 0830 – 1400 Wittersham Market Every Tuesday Village Hall 9am. - 11am Tel: 01797 270757 Wye First and third Saturday of every month on the Village Green in Wye. Tel: 07804 652156 www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk

19

We Aim to Fulfill Every Traveller’s Dream!

Czech Republic –Wonderful castles and chateaux, world famous spas, unspoilt countryside, historical cities and legendary cuisine – what will you choose?

Beautiful nature with unique architectual monuments with interesting history, native beers, and the brilliant Czech cuisine and people. “You can see all those things for top prices if you choose Morgan`s Travel Agency” says Jitka Morgan.

Last time you mentioned that the Czech Republic is special to you and that you could talk hours about that country. Do you like travelling back to your native country?

Of course I love travelling back to the Czech Republic, I spent my whole childhood and most of my life there. But life has changed and now I live in UK and I go back to Czech mostly with clients.

So you go with your clients?

If they wish us to go with them it is no problem.

I think it is good for our clients, my husband and I are ready to help them constantly. You don`t have to go sightseeing in a big group, we can choose the best places to see with our clients.

We can change anything in the program if our 20

clients wish. If clients want us to accompany them we prefer to have a dinner together where we can discuss what they do or don’t want to do on their trip. Our services are suitable for anybody and we aim to make our clients 100% happy.

That sounds interesting, so what would you mention about the Czech Republic? Most people only speak of Prague I guess.

Czech Republic is a beautiful country with 12 places selected by UNESCO as World Heritage.

I think that our prices are affordable so clients can go try a weekend in Prague and when they come back they can contact us again and we can prepare a special trip across the whole country for them. I think anyone that visits Czech Republic should spend at least a day or two in Prague.

It is a beautiful town packed with historical monuments. Czech people call Prague “The Heart of Europe” not only because it is in the middle of Europe but because they love the city. Most popular places are Prague Castle with St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square with Astronomical clock and Petrin hill. I could give you hundreds of places worth seeing in Prague.

Leisure And what if somebody isn’t really fan of history and monuments like you have mentioned? Do you think that people like this can also enjoy your trip?

Of course! We can prepare a different type of a trip for them. If you prefer relaxing in a spa and then a little romantic walk around some calm places, and we can recommend to you the best pubs for eating and drinking. We can give you tips for good parties in the city too. You can also see the modern side of Prague. There is a huge aquapark, and the fourth best zoo in the world.

There are a lot of technical museums to see, I can only say we have something for every client.

You’ve mentioned that you also offer trips to other places of Czech Republic beside Prague?

Prague is one of the most beautiful cities, but the rest of the country is packed with great places.

You can visit Moravia, some regions of South Moravia are known for their wine production.

Imagine an evening in a wine cellar in Moravia tasting the best local wines surrounded by beautiful scenery. Many people love Czech spas and you can visit spas across the country, many places are widely known such as Carlsbad. If you like nature and walking you can go to South Bohemia where you’ll find hills and beautiful forests ideal for calm walks or biking. In winter

months there are special Christmas markets and the snowy mountains to add to the beauty.

Well I can see that everything is possible in Czech Republic. Do you have any special recommendation for our readers?

My favourite trip would be to Prague and South Bohemia. A prolonged girls week visiting boutiques of famous designers. Special evenings shopping and relaxing, and visiting the museum of chocolate in Tábor. You can see the whole town of Tábor and the gorgeous city centre.

You can`t miss dinner at Hotel Nautilus with one of best Czech chefs. Then onto the town Czech Krumlov. It became part of UNESCO World Heritage in 1992. In the end I think this trip is suitable for everybody but we make it only for groups of 6 or more.

Do you have anything more to say to our readers?

Yes please don’t be afraid to call us or mail us if you have a question about anything. We are ready to answer all of your questions and help you with everything. We are small family travel agency so we prefer personal approach to our every client.

We are sure we can fulfil your expectations for an ideal holiday. We are ready to set an appointment and talk about everything. Just ask us, we are here for you. Get to know us in person!

21

L i v e Ja z z 2016/17

T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b At T h e To we r To B o o k C a l l : 0 1 3 0 3 2 7 7 1 7 5 All gigs start at 8pm ~ All gigs £12 admission Seat Bookings 01303 277175 Email twinklewood@btinternet.com Info on website www.towertheatrefolkestone. co.uk THE BEST OF BRITISH JAZZ July 4th THE THEO TRAVIS QUARTET

Modern jazz at it’s Best July 13th THE MARC CECIL QUINTET

Mainstream / Modern This is For You July 20th PETE LONG / CHRIS DEAN QUINTET

The Big Band Leaders Are Back July 27th ANITA WARDELL & TRUDY KERR

Two Top Aussies return to The FJC August 3rd THE CLARK TRACEY SEXTET

This is a tribute to Hexad - To celebrate the work of his father Stan Tracey CBE Stan would have been 90th this year - -This is just a one year project -- So don’t miss it Aug 10th THE ROGER BEAUJOLAIS QUARTET

Europe’s number one vibes player Aug 17th MISS TINA MAY & Her Trio

Fantastic Jazz Singer --- The Blonde Bombshell

T h e Fo l k e s t o n e J a z z C l u b i s a n o n p r o f i t m a k i n g j a z z c l u b. R u n b y & fo r p e o p l e w i t h a l i k e m i n d e d i n t e re s t i n OUR KIND OF MUSIC D e r i c k Wo o d l a n d 0 1 3 0 3 2 6 0 3 3 0

22

Little Chart Summer Flower Show will be held Saturday 8th July in the Parish Hall at 3pm . Entries welcome . Schedules available from Julie Lilwall at julielilwall@hotmail.uk, for setting up times see schedule. Come along and enjoy the show even if you do not not wish to make entries Cream Teas at All Saints Woodchurch 2.304.30pm Sundays 10/24 July, Sundays 7/21 August. To be held in the church grounds, weather permitting, otherwise in the church.

Bethersden Boot Fair on the cruciket field Saturday 16th July. gates open 11.30 - 4.00pm. cars £7 - vans £10. Refreshments available, no caterers.

In aid of St Margarets Church Stone-cum-ebony Flower Show and Fete, Saturday 16th July 1.30pm. traditional family village fete xwith games, stalls, races, bbq, cake and bar.

Fun dog show and large produce and craft show. All proceeds go to local groups and projects.

Biddenden All Saints Church Annual Fete: Saturday 8th July from 1400 - 1630 in the church and churchyard. Live music from The Elastic Band, teas, cakes, raffle, books, bric a brac, coconuts and many other stalls as well as children’s fun and games. The tower will be open ( weather permitting). For more information call 01580 291658.

The Weald of Kent Computer Club will meet on Wednesday 19th July in Biddenden New Village Hall at 7.30 pm. This evening there will be a talk on “A review of Windows 10 including finding where the common functions have moved to. “.

Annual membership is £10.00. Non-members are welcome at £2 a visit. Full details: http://www. wealdofkentcomputerclub.co.uk/ Enquiries: secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk The Biddenden Horticultural Society meets on Wednesday 26th July for a visit to ‘Goddards Green Garden, Cranbrook. Tour of the garden followed by tea/coffee and cake. Cost £8.50 per person. We will meet in the Post Office car park at 6pm for our usual car share and to arrive in Cranbrook for 6:30pm. If you would like to join us for the evening please contact us to make your booking as we have to inform our hosts of expected numbers by the 24th. Contact Irene on 01580 291777 or Lesley on 01580 291931.

The Greatstone Senior Singers are performing their Summer show on Wednesday 26th July, from 3pm to 5pm. If you have seen us before, you will know that we have a very varied programme, with

plenty of comedy as well as singing. Tickets are £6 per person, including refreshments. They can be obtained from Jean Connell, telephone No.01303 872520. We look forward to seeing you.

Tues 1st August EXHIBITION of WATERCOLOURS

by Graham Lilley at the EVEGATE ART GALLERY, which was given a Special Mention by the Kent Creative Awards in May 2017. Last years Solo Exhibition, my first, had over 130 visitors 25 paintings were sold, a record for the gallery by one artist in a month.

Sat 6th Aug, Su m m e r Sw i n g Glebe Field , Tenterden Are you free on Saturday 6th August?

Yes – then why not gather up your friends and family and come and enjoy your picnic with Big Band Music from the highly acclaimed professional Orbi Playa Group – supported by local back up bands - and a wonderful view of the Kent countryside. Bring your chairs, rugs, picnics, wine, tea and coffee and enjoy a summer’s afternoon from 2pm onwards in the Glebe Field (directly

behind the Church) with free parking available in the field – BBQ and food available to buy – come and enjoy the fun of foot-tapping swinging music from a great band. Tickets £5.00 adults – children FREE From The Three Bears, High Street, Tenterden friendsofstmildreds@gmail.com Tel No 01580 764620 or at the Gate

The Friends of St Margaret’s Church Bethersden Registered charity no. 296611

Present a concert by

THE KING'S MEN

(The choral and organ scholars of King’s College, Cambridge)

FRIDAY 14th JULY 2017 at 7.30 pm in St Margaret’s Church, Bethersden.

ADMISSION BY TICKET ONLY: £15.00 Cheques payable to The Friends of St. Margaret’s Church with an SAE to the Secretary, 47 Orchard Field, Bethersden, TN26 3AW. Telephone: 01233 820989/820713 Email: brushwood1@hotmail.co.uk Wine will be on sale before the concert and in the interval.

What’s On

St Margaret’s Garden Fete Street Cottage, The Street, Bethersden, TN26 3AG

Monday 28 August 2017 – 11:30am to 4pm

Bank Holiday Family Fun Beautiful Garden Setting Traditional Stalls & Games Tea, Barbecue, Pimms Blacksmith Demo Live Music Free Parking & Entry

Bake-Off Competition

Entries to tea tent by 12 Noon

· Best decorated cupcake (under 12's) · Best garden inspired cake · Tastiest Victoria Sponge

Raffle Prizes include: Tablet computer Food hamper Yo! Sushi vouchers Raffle tickets on sale from mid July

www.bethersdenfete.com

HAMSTREET BOOT FAIR

First Sunday in the month April - December 9am - 12 noon Victory Hall/Field Food, Bargains, Toilets

WOODCHURCH BOOT FAIR

Every first Sunday in the month from 9am until 12 noon at Woodchurch Scout & Guide Community Centre, Lower Road Woodchurch.

Rye Bric a Brac & Collectables Market

Every Thursday 10.30am - 1.30pm Community Centre, Conduit Hill, Rye Contact: Mrs Hammond 01797 223605

Please Send Your Events to events@thevillagedirectory.co.uk 23

Clubs & Societies Considered Yoga for 2017 but thought you are not flexible enough? Good news! You are exactly who our classes are aimed at! Every Tuesday 6.30-8pm at Charter Hall, Smarden, Yoga & Relaxation Classes. Seated options are given for all poses, we use blocks & straps to ensure all poses are adapted to your own ability! Physically, we work on strength & flexibility. Mentally, we will work on stress & anxiety reduction using breathing techniques & meditation. £10 drop in or 6 weeks blocks at £8 per class. Feel free to come along or contact 07933 030071 The Gardening Group At Charing Surgery. Get fresh air, exercise, meet other people, have fun and enjoy being part of the community.

Open to all patients, age 16+. Green Fingers not essential. Tuesdays 9am-12pm. Call Jo’anne Munro on 01233 713582.

Biddenden Junior Football Club - Always looking for new players 7 -18, for fun and enjoyable football. Contact Steve on 07958 447948.

Biddenden Squash Club 01580 291130 Gordon Jones Playing Field, Biddenden.

Friendly club with 2 courts and a bar. email: info@biddendensquash.co.uk www. biddendensquash.co.uk Biddenden Horticultural Society Annual membership £5.

New members welcome.

Contact Irene Orsborne on 01580 291777 or Lesley Lidgett on 01580 291931.

Egerton Over 60’s Egerton Over 60’s Club meet on the second Monday of each month. We enjoy stimulating speakers, delicious teas in a relaxing atmosphere and meet new friends.

Come and try us--just turn up at the Egerton Millennium Hall by 2 pm, we’d love to see you.

Here are samples of some of our speakers--Kent Fire and Rescue Service--What is Bushcraft?

-Antiques--What’s Hot and What’s not,-Tree of Hope ,Tales of Courage and Determination-To Antarctica in a Russion Ice-breaker and more.Outings include --Mystery Tour to include Fish and Chip lunch,-London, whole day trip on MV Pocahontas touring the Thames , Margate,Walpole Bay Hotel for cream tea,-Ashdown Forest,cream tea at Polhill Garden Centre near Sevenoaks,-and finally our Xmas Lunch. Annual Subs--£5 ---monthly Subs--£2-includes Speaker, business, finishing with tea, 24

sandwiches and delicious cakes.

Headcorn Modern Sequence Dance Club, meet every Monday 7.30 pm to 10.00 pm in the Andred Hall in Headcorn Village Hall. If you enjoy Ballroom dancing, bring your partner or friend along and learn more. We are a friendly little club, nice music- social evening- tea and biscuits - all for £3.00 per person. Call Rita on 01580 852289.

Kennington Badminton Club, play at the Norton Knatchbull School on a Wed evening from 7.30 p.m.-10.00 p.m. Contact Mark Feeney on 01233 663030 or Shirley Mountford on 01233 610134.

Little Chart Bridge Club Friendly duplicate bridge every Tuesday afternoon at Little Chart Village Hall. For more information please contact Carmen Gunther on 01233 840 395.

Smarden Heritage Centre Smarden Charter Hall, Smarden. Open every Friday morning from 9.30 – 11.30. visit: www.smardenheritagecentre. synthasite.com Smarden Short Mat Bowls Club We welcome new novice or experienced bowlers of all ages.

We meet every Thurs. morning at 9.45am and occasionally on a weekday evening, in the Charter Hall Smarden. Contact Malcolm 01233 770572.

The Roots Project Conservation Volunteers What we do: Regular practical conservation tasks and woodland craft workshops based in Longbeech Wood, Charing.

Contact: Carrie Eeles (Activities Officer) Tel: 07920404546 Email: info@therootsproject.co.uk www.therootsprojectconservationvolunteers.org.uk Weald of Kent Computer Club meets in the New Biddenden Village Hall. Annual membership costs £10 and covers free admission to all 10 meetings. Non members are £2 per visit.

New members welcome.

Enquiries to:secretarywkcc@yahoo.co.uk or visit:- www. wealdofkentcomputerclub.co.uk East Kent Morris Men and Women: Do you like dancing, drinking, socialising, music, having fun? Then why not try Morris Dancing? We are recruiting now for new members. This is a mixed side of women and men dancing together.

Weekly Wednesday dance practices start again on September 21st 2016 at Mountbatten

Hall, Mersham from 8pm to 10pm; afterwards we practise drinking in the pub opposite, the Farrier’s Arms! We dance Cotswold style Morris; this is the handkerchief waving and stick clashing variety. No experience required. Why not give it a try? Find us on Facebook or call John on 01233 625 362 Weald U3A is a society for the dynamic over 50s with a thirst for knowledge, social activities and new experiences. We have a large number of interest groups including Bridge, Films, Italian, jazz, Stargazers, Lunches and Theatre Visits. Please see our website www.u3asites. org.uk/weald or contact Richard Sargent, tel: 01580764239, email: r.sargent@btinternet.com Tenterden Camera Club - A chance for members and guests to meet socially and discuss photography, exchange ideas, tips and problems. We have an informal “Snap Chat” meeting at 7.30pm in the William Caxton on Tenterden High St on the first Monday of each month to discuss photographic issues. There is no charge and all are welcome - just buy yourself a drink... We also meet fortnightly (2nd Thursday & 4th Wednesday each month) in the

CINNAMON

Clubs & Societies

upstairs meeting room at the Zion Baptist Church, Bridewell Lane in Tenterden. Every month we have a fun project or theme for members to capture, complimented by the occasional local outings. Most months we have a speaker and at the end of the month (Fourth Wednesday) we have a social club evening. New members and guests very welcome. Full details on our web site: www.TenterdenCameraClub.co.uk

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DELIVERY WITHIN 4 MILES

TAKEAWAY SPECIAL

(SUNDAY TO THURSDAY)

Collection: £19.95 Delivery: £22.00 Any 2 Starters, Any 2 Main Dishes 1 Bombay Aloo served with 2 Pilau Rice & 1 Plain Naan Excluding all seafood Not in conjunction with any other offer Mention “The Village Directory” when ordering.

For a limited period only

25

Hobbies Building A Future For Family Memories

By Kate McLelland

I recently inherited several boxes of family photographs, with images dating from Victorian times - when photography was in its infancy - right up to the first decade of the new millennium.

Some pictures were stored carefully in albums but others were roughly crammed into folders and envelopes.

Unsurprisingly, some of the older items were beginning to show signs of deterioration, including rips, stains and tiny spots of mould. While I felt very privileged to be the keeper of this important archive, it was a reminder that my own family snaps and VHS tapes were packed in the loft: all in danger of going the same way as my newly-acquired collection.

After taking stock of all this precious material - which documented over 100 years of my family’s history - it occurred to me that I had a responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

PRESERVING FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHS When it comes to the future of a family photo collection you are faced with a straightforward choice: either divide the photographs up between a

26

select group of relatives, or digitise the entire archive so it can be enjoyed by everyone.

While the first option is quick and simple, it’s not entirely satisfactory. Unless the collection includes duplicate images, no-one will hold a complete set of family photos.

There is also a chance that in future someone will throw out their part of the collection because they no longer have space to keep it.

Converting hard copy photos to digital images may involve a lot of work, but it ensures that the archive will be passed on from generation to generation.

Restoring and digitising photographic images can also become an enjoyable hobby: there’s great satisfaction in transforming faded, mouldspotted and torn pictures into images that look as fresh as the day they emerged from the darkroom.

If you decide to digitise, you will need a computer with enough disk space to store the photographic files you are creating. You’ll also need some kind of photo editing software. According to the magazine What Digital Camera?, there are several good image

manipulation packages that are completely free to download.

Top of their list is the oddlynamed Gimp, which works like a basic version of the industry-standard software Photoshop. Gimp allows you to do everything from cropping and resizing to altering exposure and colour balance.

It also has the same invaluable ‘clone tool’ as Photoshop, which allows you to heal the spoiled parts of a photo by copying an undamaged area over the damaged spot.

CONVERTING YOUR SLIDES During the 1960s and 70s a craze for slide photography meant that many amateur snappers temporarily stopped taking conventional photos. If you have boxes of slides that you need to convert to digital files, you will need an additional piece of equipment. Slide scanners start at around £16 (for a device that can be used together with a smartphone), while standalone scanners can cost up to £125.

VHS VIDEOS TO DVD I had a shock recently when someone told me that analogue videos and home movies are susceptible to the same

degradation as photographic slides, prints and negatives.

VHS tapes, Hi8 and Video8 are magnetic media: as the magnetic particles gradually lose their charge, the tape deteriorates. Depending on how carefully you store your tapes, you can expect at least a 20% reduction in playback quality after 10-25 years.

The easiest way to convert videos to DVDs is to connect a video-cassette recorder (VCR) to a PC via an analogue-to-digital video capture device. You’ll need to record the VHS video to your PC’s hard drive and then write the recorded video to DVD, using the DVD writer installed on your PC. Be warned, however, that VCRs are slowly becoming obsolete, so if you have a large number of VHS tapes to convert and don’t already have a VCR, this may be a good time to buy

one. A medium-priced video capture device costs between £25 and £50, while a VCR costs from £30 upwards (refurbished models may cost less).

If you only have a few tapes to convert, you might consider using a professional service. It’s worth checking online for the best deal: Asda Photo charges £27 per tape, while web-based conversion specialists such as digitalconverters.co.uk typically charge under ten pounds for a single VHS or Hi8 tape.

aware that if you choose cloud or web-hosting services to house your digital files, you may end up paying an annual fee.

Thanks to my inherited collection, digitising family images now occupies much of my spare time, and I’ve even started to help friends who want family photos restored. It’s rewarding to know that, once converted to a digital format, these important visual records will go on giving pleasure far into the future.

Once your family photos and videos have been converted into a longer-lasting format, the next step will be deciding the best way to share them.

You could burn them to DVD and give them out to family members, upload them to a cloud file-sharing system or create a family website. Be

Jo and Dave welcome you to their traditional village pub in Bethersden, where you can enjoy well kept real ales, local ciders, fine wine and a warm atmosphere.

Monday Evening

FREE HOUSE

Buy one Meal and Get One Free (selected menu)

Bethersden Tel: 01233 820235

Tues - Fri Lunch Senior Citizens Meals

Open from 12pm - 11pm Every Day Food served Monday Night to Sunday Lunch 12noon - 2pm & 6pm - 9pm

Two steaks with chips, peas & salad with a bottle of wine. £22.00 per couple.

Two courses for £7.50 per person.

Tuesday & Thursday Steak Nights

Wednesday Night Carvery

Two roast meats plus all the trimmings £7.95 pp

Friday Fish & Chips Special Eat In or Takeaway £6.95

Sunday Lunch Carvery

A selection of two roast meats with trimmings £7.95 pp 27

Kid’s Corner

28

Health

What is the Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust? By John Fletcher KCHFT Public Governor - Ashford

As your newly elected Public Governor in the Ashford area, I represent your voice on this NHS Trusts’ Council of Governors. I would like to explain what I will try to do.

The structure of the NHS is complex but its effective functioning is important for all of us.

The Trust, along with the Hospitals Trusts, is responsible for looking after our health in Kent.

In addition are GP’s who manage their surgeries as their own businesses. NHS Foundation Trusts are managed by Boards of Directors and comprised of a mixture of professional staff and non-executives (NEDs) all of whom are salaried.

NHS Foundation Trusts also have a Council of Governors the majority of whom are elected advert has been created for you based on and all are unpaid: each one representing ls you have supplied. Please advise us by the staff of the Trust or the inhabitants of a are any errors or corrections otherwise we Local district Council area plus a few others ith this ad. Many thanks ‌ representing other organisations.

RTWORK AR

To be effective, each representatives on the Council of Governors must be in touch with and able to identify the concerns of people. Such matters can be raised at the meetings of the Council so that the Board is aware of important issues. The Council is also responsible for holding the NEDs of the Board to account. This is done at the meetings of the Council. Governors must try to know what is going on in their area so an effective way of communicating both to and from the public is absolutely essential.

ASHFORD ADVERTISER

YOUR ADVERT

The Kent Community Health Trust covers the whole of Kent and is one of the largest in the country. It employs over 5000 people and is responsible for caring for us throughout our lives. It has a wide range of services (over 70) which include children’s health, podiatry, rehab, dental services, community nursing and end of life care.

My intention is to attempt to inform through T: 01233 660 220 local publications and by attending some Email: theadvertiser@aol.com meetings. Parish magazines or similar local publications are a means of doing this. I will write articles at intervals for these in which I will highlight the issues of concern and also publicise the services offered by the Trust, so that you know what is available and what you should be able to receive when you need it!

In order for these to be effective it is essential that I get feedback. Means of doing this are by email at kcht.governors@nhs.net or by writing to me at the Trust office The Oast, Unit D, Hermitage Court, Hermitage Lane, Barming, Maidstone, Kent ME16 9NT or by telephone on 01622 211972.

The

Learning Academy Ashford’s premier tutoring centre where your child will only be taught

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If you want The Learning Academy to help your child achieve then visit us at our new premises to discuss how we can support their learning.

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29

Beauty Summer Sensations

by Kate Duggan www.kateduggan.co.uk

From staycations to Caribbean cruises, this month’s beauty buys are all about summer holiday essentials.

If your limbs are still looking a bit winter-white, try Trilogy Instant Bronzing Gel. It’s easy to apply and dries quickly.

You get an instant, natural tint with a longer lasting, natural looking tan developing over time. The resulting colour is very subtle, but you can build it up into a richer bronze with daily application.

The gel also includes Aloe vera and vitamin E, to moisturise and refresh tired legs. Cost is £12.50 from www.trilogyproducts.com.

Hotel rooms often don’t have a mirror anywhere near a plug socket, which can make styling your hair rather difficult. So, if you’re in the market for some new straighteners, you might want to consider Lee Stafford’s No Strings Attached Cordless Straighteners.

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Pop them into the base and they’ll quickly heat up to 230°C. You can then take them to the mirror and style your hair while the heat lasts (about 15 minutes). With such a high temperature, and

tourmaline-ceramic plates, they’re really quick and easy to use. There’s no need to strain your eyes peering at a mirror at the other side of the room, and there’s no cord to knock your cocktail over. Available from Argos and Very for £69.99, including heat-proof mat and travel case.

If you’re a yoga or Pilates buff, there are few things better than working out in the sun.

Calmia’s Eco-Friendly Double Sided Travel Mat is lightweight and compact, so you can take it anywhere. One side is made from ecofriendly micro-fibre with bamboo, while the other is textured PER (polymer environmental resin). So whether you need a softer surface for relaxing in the lotus position, or a grippier

surface for your sun salutation, this mat is ideal. It’s £39 from www.calmia.com.

Sun + air conditioning + one too many cocktails = dehydrated, lacklustre skin. A sheet mask can really help to boost moisture and leave skin looking brighter.

The I MASK Biomolecular Hydrating Recovery Mask is a great choice.

It’s soothing, cooling and does exactly what it promises to – boosting moisture content by up to 40%.

It also includes amino acids, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, so it leaves skin feeling plumper, fresher and altogether happier. Cost is £9 from www.imageskincare.co.uk.

Health & Beauty A cooling spray and SPF in one – what a genius idea! Bioderma Hydrabio Eau de Soin SPF 30 can be sprayed on whenever you’re feeling hot and sticky.

It’s hydrating, refreshing and protects from UV rays. It’s also handbag size, so can be popped in your bag to take to the pool, beach or wherever your wanderings take you. A bottle costs £9 and should last for your holiday. Visit www.biodermauk.com to find your nearest stockist.

Refexology Plus At

Tina Winterbottom MAR VISION Hair & Beauty ~ Charing

Every Friday

t: 01233 714030

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Open

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31

Why It’s Smart To Face Up To Change

by Kate McLelland

We’ve all had one of those moments. You spot a frowning, older face reflected in a shop window that looks strangely familiar. As your brain starts to process the image, you realise with shock that you are staring at your own reflection. Aging features, paunchy midriff and slightly stooping posture… could that really be you?

Take comfort, you’re not alone. We all tend to deceive ourselves when it comes to our appearance, and if it’s been a while since you took a long, unflinching look at yourself in the mirror, you may simply be unaware of the way your face and body has subtly altered.

Several years ago the USbased Pew Research Center questioned 3,000 people and found that most respondents felt younger than their date of birth would suggest. Almost half of fifty year olds said they felt no older than forty, while those aged 65-74 felt up to nineteen years younger. Given that so many of us feel younger than our chronological age, it’s hardly surprising that we expect to look younger, too.

While there’s no real harm in

32

imagining yourself younger, self-deception isn’t your friend when it comes to matters of styling. In order to keep looking your best, it helps to understand the way your body alters as you age.

Ch-ch-changes “Turn and face the strange” sang the late, great David Bowie, warning: “Pretty soon now you’re gonna get older”.

Whether you like it or not, it’s important to understand that the older “you” is likely to have a very different body shape, skin tone and hair colour than the twenty-something version you remember so well.

People with fair skins will find their complexions become more sallow with age, while darker skins may suffer from uneven pigmentation. Hair loses its gloss, turning grey or white, and attempts to dye it back to a youthful shade are often unsuccessful because that colour is no longer compatible with a mature skin tone.

Unless you are exceptionally motivated when it comes to diet and exercise, it’s also likely that you will gain weight as you age. At the same time you will

experience some height loss: people typically lose almost half an inch (about one centimetre) every ten years after age 40.

Styling for men: how to be a grey fox GQ Magazine advises its mature readers: “Your wardrobe should err far more on the side of style than fashion”, adding that the key to dressing well in your 50s, 60s and 70s is to make sure that clothes fit properly.

Go through your wardrobe and throw away anything that squeezes in the wrong places.

Swap trainers (especially the more brightly coloured styles) for smarter shoes and, where possible, buy longer-lasting, quality clothes instead of cheaper items.

Well-cut jackets worn with crisp, well-ironed shirts will keep you looking good whatever your age. Baggy trousers should be avoided at all costs, but if you’ve gained some weight since your younger days, it’s safer to buy straight-cut trousers than squeeze into today’s more tapered styles.

You’ll find plenty of style advice for older men available online.

A good place to start is the Grey Fox Blog (www.greyfoxblog. com) or alternatively you can find some inspirational styling ideas on Pinterest (pinterest. com).

Styling for women: why it’s wise to accessorise Despite the fact that we are all living longer, clothes designers still seem to be obsessed with youth fashion. It can be frustrating to try on dresses, shirts and trousers designed for younger bodies, so if the tailoring doesn’t work with your contours, try experimenting with more flowing styles that don’t cling to your body shape.

If you are sensitive about a thickening waistline, less-thanfirm upper arms or a wrinkled neckline, simply conceal them with light, flowing clothing or a

See Website for Special Offers

scarf. Choosing bold accessories as a focus for your outfit is a good way of diverting attention from features you’re less keen to show off.

Keep make-up light and simple – heavy foundation can emphasise wrinkles and laughter lines. As hair tends to become drier and more brittle with age, consider experimenting with short hairstyles, layered or feathered to frame your face.

Fortunately you’ll find plenty of websites that offer great fashion advice for mature women.

Try Helen Walmsley-Johnson’s column The Invisible Woman at theguardian.com or visit Alyson Walsh’s blog site That’s Not My Age (thatsnotmyage.com).

Knowledge is power. The key to styling in your later years is to

Woodside Spa

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understand the aging process and the way it affects your face and body. Age is something to be celebrated, not denied or ignored, and there’s much to be gained when - rather than ignoring or resisting the physical changes caused by aging - you finally decide to embrace them.

Once you’ve developed your own, personal style, the chances are you’ll look as young as you feel.

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33

Puzzle Time

Word Ladder

Sudoku 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!

Change one letter at a time (but not the position of any letter) to make a new word - and move from the word at the top of the ladder to the word at the bottom, using the exact number of rungs provided.

B A C K

©Puzzlepress.co.uk

D O O R

Crossword Across 7. Picture house (6) 8. Annually (6) 9. Successor (4) 10. Type of artist (8) 11. Space craft (7) 13. Loosen (5) 15. Perfume (5) 17. The mean (7) 20. Put into order (8) 21. Knitting stitch (4) 23. Taken without consent (6) 24. Almost (6)

34

Down 1. American coin (4) 2. Longs for (6) 3. Incorrectly (7) 4. Thick sweet liquid (5) 5. Occur (6) 6. Permitting (8) 12. Precise (8) 14. Obvious (7)

16. Tidily (6) 18. Revoke (6)

19. Representative (5) 22. Annoy (4)

The Home

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35

Derek Hales

Lancaster Builders (Kent) Ltd

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36

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The Home

Oil Heating & Oil Cookers R-OAK Services M. Oakley & O.Stanley - Oil-fired Specialists Breakdowns & Servicing • Boiler Installation • Power Flushing AGA, Rayburn, Alpha, Stanley, Worcester, Tel: 01233 770138 www.ohoc.co.uk Grant, Boulter, Potterton, Trianco and more...

Advertise Here 25% OFF (£26.25 per month plus vat) Minimum 4 month booking Limited Offer

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e: info@thevillagedirectory.co.uk

• • • • •

Industrial • Commercial • Domestic New Installations • General Electrical Repairs Showers / Extractor Fans • Energy Saving Advice Emergency Lighting • Solar Panels Garden Electrics • Inspection & PAT Testing Full and Part Rewires • Central Vacuum System • Under Floor Heating

Call: 01233 665107

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We can design, supply and install the perfect solution for you

Walk-in showers • Walk-in baths • Wetrooms

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01233 210808 www.batheinsafety.co.uk

To find out how we can help you Call :

• British Healthcare & Trading Standards Approved • 37

Important Information Emergency 999 Police Neighbhd Team Ashford & Tenterden 101 Crimestoppers

0800 555 111 Out of Hours Doctor William Harvey Hospital

0845 4349655 01233 633331

Samaritans 116123 www.samaritans.org Electricity: Southern Electric EDF Energy Gas: Natural LPG

0845 770 8090 0800 783 8866 0800 111 999 Details on tank

Doctors Surgery The Charing Surgery 01233 714 490 Headcorn Surgery 01622 890294 Parish Councils: Biddenden: 01580 890750 Charing: 01233 713599 Egerton: 01622 853558 Headcorn: 01622 892496 Pluckley: 01233 770739 Smarden: 07752 395412 Ashford Borough Council 01233 331111 www.ashford.gov.uk Ashford Gateway 0845 8 247 247 info:ashfordgateway.co.uk www.ashfordgateway.co.uk Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185 CPRE Kent 01233 714540 Veterinary Surgeons Barrow Hill Vets 01233 624687 Pierson Stewart & Partners 01580 713381 Charing Business Association www.charingkent.co.uk Volunteer Centre 01233 665 535 Age UK Ashford 01233 668 765 www.ageuk.org/ashford ageukashford.org@gmail.com CARM E: Carmromneymarsh@supanet.com www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk

Macmillan Cancer Support www.forget-me-nots.co.uk Parkinson’s UK, Ashford Branch Contact Mike Wharrad 01233 623520 Royal British Legion 01233 620 167 St. John Ambulance Brigade 01233 611 414 East Kent Strokes 01233 840448 www.eastkentstrokes.org SE Kent Multiple Sclerosis Soc. 07767326138 email: mssoutheast@gmail.com NSPCC: Tenterden & District Mrs J Coombs 01580 763733 Pregnancy Sickness Support Kent and Sussex www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk/ Contact: Denise Clifford deniseclifford@ btinternet.com Royal Mail Residential Customer Services

08457 740740 Bus Enquiries Arriva Bus Enquiries 0871 200 22 33 (Timetable) 08456 00 22 99 (Customer Services) National Train Enquiries: www.nationalrail. co.uk Village Halls: Wealden Wheels: 01233 840000 Biddenden Charing Charing Heath Egerton - Millenium Hall Headcorn Little Chart or Pluckley Smarden Charter Hall

01580 291320 01233 713599 01622 858296 01233 840479 01622 890708 07753 802814 01233 840395 01233 840280 01233 771947

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

01233 840624

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

The Village Directory Coverage

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PUZZLE ANSWERS Kid’s Corner: Dollar - USA, Pound - Britain Yen - China, Rupee - India Euro - Germany Piggy Bank grid should read: Top Line - 50, 2, 10, 25 2nd Line - 25, 10, 2, 50 3rd Line - 2, 50, 25, 10 Bottom Line - 10, 25, 50, 2

Word Ladder: BACK hack hock hook book boor DOOR

Sudoku:

Crossword:

The Old School House Restaurant Indian Cuisine The Finest Indian Cuisine in the Area!

Open 7 Days a week

5.30pm - 11.00pm Saturday & Sunday 12.00 - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - 11.00pm including Bank Holidays

10% Discount on Takeaways

01233 733350

(Cash Only) Last orders 10.30pm

Your satisfaction is important to us, please let us know if you have enjoyed your visit, we value your opinion.

The Street, Hamstreet, Ashford, Kent TN26 2HG