Covering Hythe, Sandgate Issue 126 Free across the area Thursday 6th August 2015 MP calls for Lorry Park for 1,300 lorries at Westenhanger

Folkestone and Hythe MP Damian are not ‘Nimby’s’ but why do we have to Collins, has been working with the provide the solution for what is a national Highway Agency, Police and problem.” Government Ministers looking at possible SDC Council Leader David Monk told The Country Fayre ‘fixes’ for the problems caused by Looker; “The Council have agreed the Picture Special Operation stack. In his recent weekly construction of the lorry park at Stop 24. statement he said; “Off road lorry parking We are talking about the strip of land will be an important part of managing between the motorway and the railway Operation Stack in the future, and the track; it will only indirectly effect three summit meeting in Maidstone recently houses”. agreed that the best way to deliver these Mark Cadier told the Looker; “It is not the spaces would be by extending the Stop first time a lorry park has been put 24 services at junction 11 of the M20. It is forward for the district and locals have possible to create a park there for around been very vocal, stating that why should 1,300 lorries, in addition to the 300 new we have to pay the price for a national spaces that will be available at the problem. What is in it for us? Will we get Channel Tunnel terminal in Cheriton this something to sweeten the deal if it is September.” forced upon us? No, is the simple This has caused great concern for the answer! Well we want an MP who will people of Westenhanger who have fight for us locals not play the safe game complained to Shepway District Council and just please his cabinet colleagues.” about the disruption that the planned lorry Just like Operation Stack, this story will park would cause. run and run. Tell us what you think. Country Fayre dodges weather. One local resident told The Looker, “We Email: [email protected] Full story pages 14, 15 & 16. 6th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Every effort is made by The LOOKER Editor’sWord newspaper to ensure that the information is correct. By David Wimble The LOOKER newspaper reserves the right not to publish unsolicited material being sent Well, I don’t know how the committee of the New Romney through to the publication. Personal views Country Fayre do it! expressed in this publication are solely those Another year of bright sunny weather sandwiched by days of of the respective contributors and do not wind and rain. reflect those of the publishers or its agents. As always we had a presence at the fayre with our Spitfire The Looker is not responsible for services car. We also took over 200 pictures and put them on our website which has had record numbers of hits this week. provided by the advertisers. All material As one local pointed out to me, the paper is starting to get as supplied to this publication is at the owner’s he put it ‘A Bit Good’. Well, we have a new lease of life. risk. We are very conscious of the fact that we are lacking a bit of Reproduction in whole or in part of this Hythe News. So please, if you are a Hythe resident and publication is strictly prohibited without prior fancy being a reporter for us, get in touch. consent. I have attended lots of events over the past few days and Photographic rights remain the property of think its one of the best bits being involved in the paper, with The LOOKER newspaper and Marsh Media. lots more to come. We are looking forward to the Hythe Venetian Fete and lastly Contact: THE LOOKER: the next edition will mark our fifth anniversary. So we would like you, our readers, to let us know what you 01797-364837. think of The Looker. Mobile: 07900-080656. E-mail: [email protected] or write to: Advertising: Jill Hernandez 10 Mulberry Court, Grand Parade, New Romney. TN28 8LZ 07921-267288. David Wimble E-mail: [email protected] Page 2 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015

depicts the essence of Sign of the times in with a Martello Tower, fishing, Dymchurch ship and anchor and is the work of a true Dymchurch has a brand new sign depicting the historic craftsman. heritage of the seaside town. Sam who is known for Its official unveiling took place recently when Parish his creative work, has Council Chairman Roger Wilkins thanked local people recently had work and everyone for attending on what was a cold, wet broadcast on BBC, ITV and blustery day as he introduced Sam Briggs, and Channel 4. decorative blacksmith and resident of Dymchurch. The Chairman also Sam designed and made the amazing sign which thanked the Environment Agency for granting permission for the sign to be erected on its land. The event was witnessed by Colin and Margret Walker from the Dymchurch and District Heritage Group, Carole Waters the KCC County Member for the District and David Owen on behalf of Shepway District Council. The plan is now to commission a second sign to place at the other end of the town. Sam who runs the Orgarswick Forge, said that it was a great privilege to help sculpt that represented all the key points of the historic town. Sam’s work has started to become very highly acclaimed by collectors of art as well as people Wet weather did not deter dignatories and their partners for the unveiling wanting bespoke functional of the new sign. objects like gates. Below, Chairman Roger Wilkins and artist and blacksmith Sam Briggs.

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quaint High Street which when the road closes has a Hythe tops the poll bohemian feel about it’. Mayor of Hythe, Michael Lyons told The Looker; “I am of places to live in absolutely delighted that the town has received this recognition, confirming what we already know that the South East Hythe is a great place to live. It really does have a great community feel about the place and with our Venetian In a recent survey of places that you would most like to Fete this year and our Festival alternating yearly, we live, Hythe came 2nd after Whitstable for the South East always attract a huge amount of visitors to the district’. category. The Hythe Imperial Hotel came in for a mention of Being listed as having a Vibrant High Street and a praise, with a comment about how it has been mixture of classic architecture sitting alongside ‘exciting refurbished to the highest standards, making it a bright modern contemporary design’. modern hotel, but keeping its Victorian grandeur. With The article that was published in a recent international the development of what was described as exciting airline poll, said Hythe has a charm all of its own, with ‘a architecture taking place in the former grounds. These properties had the community split when the plans were first put forward, but the general opinion within the town is that they definitely add to the ‘personality’ of this Cinque Port town. Other places that attracted positive comments included the Town Library and museum and also the ‘cosy private coffee shops’ along the High Street. The problem with all this positive talk about Hythe, is that house prices in Hythe and are about 15% higher than the rest of the county. But as the Mayor said; “That’s the price you pay for living in such a wonderful town.” Hythe Town Mayor Michael Lyons gives the thumbs up to the international recognition

Page 4 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 5 6th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Five words for the ‘Fifth Continent’ Consultation work on an exciting new project for Romney Marsh was kick-started at a Family Seaside Fun event at the Romney Marsh Visitor Centre last weekend. Kent Wildlife Trust and a wide range of partners are keen to gather the public’s thoughts this summer and autumn on the ‘Fifth Continent Landscape Partnership Scheme’ - a Heritage Lottery Funded project which will be submitted in October 2016. Ewa Prokop, Fifth Continent Project Officer, said; “We hope to develop lots of projects that involve the community as part of the Fifth Continent Scheme. We are gathering together people’s opinions and ideas by running some ‘drop-in’ sessions in St. Mary’s Bay, New Romney, , and Hythe and by talking directly to local community groups, farmers and schools. We will also seek opinions at special events further afield, such as the Festival of Wildlife at Sevenoaks.

“Everyone can see a display about the Scheme at the Romney Marsh Visitor Centre and fill in a comments book. At the Kent Wildlife Trust website, there is also an opportunity to fill out an online questionnaire. We are also asking people to choose 'Five Words for the Fifth Continent', which can be individual nouns, verbs, adverbs or adjectives that people feel epitomize the Romney Marsh area or express how they feel about the landscape. These can be submitted on our Fifth Continent Facebook page or by emailing me at [email protected] It should make interesting reading and contribute to a montage in the Landscape Conservation Action Plan to be submitted as part of our bid.” There are 15 separate strands to the Fifth Continent Scheme, which include such things as surveys and restoration of special habitats; historical research of built and archaeological heritage; promotion of local medieval churches; initiation of a ‘New Lookers’ community policing project; capturing of oral histories of local communities; encouragement of sustainable tourism; running of heritage and arts activities; and instigating traineeship and apprenticeship programmes.More information about the Scheme can be found at www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk Page 6 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015

Jamboree is a gathering of over 30,000 Scouts Ready for the Off!! and Guides from 161 countries around the world - Two Scouts from the 1st New Romney Scout a once in a lifetime opportunity to make friends Group recently left for the adventure of a lifetime globally, learn about different cultures, respect – a sixteen day trip to the 23rd World Scout cultural differences and how to work together to Jamboree in Japan. Ellie Lilliot and Jake resolve issues affecting world peace. Trimmings, supported by parents, leaders, The 1st New Romney Group waved the two off at scouts, cubs, beavers and the local community, a recent Bat ‘n’ Trap evening held at The Star, St have spent the last eighteen months fund raising Mary in the Marsh. Lead fundraiser and £3,500 each to fund the trip. The lucky two have spokesperson for the group Veronica Bailey said, been counting down the days and can hardly ‘When we started the Jamboree Journey, £7,000 believe they have reached their target and are seemed an impossible task but as always the finally on their way! local community were behind us and thanks to As part of their preparation, the two have taken their continued generosity we achieved the target. part in weekend camps and team building Scout Leader Rick Wood-Brignall wished Ellie activities which has given them the opportunity to and Jake good luck and stated it was great to see meet and make friends across the County and the Scouting Adventure and the team spirit in prepare them for the adventure. The World Scout action globally. To follow Ellie and Jake in Japan, see the Facebook pages – WSJ Rolling Scones.

Ellie and Jake ‘ready for the off’ and grateful for all the local support.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 7 9th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Dates for your Diary Thursday 6th August Middlemarsh WI, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 9.45 a.m. Lydd Meeting Point, Hardy Hall, 10 a.m. New Romney Meeting Point, Methodist Church Hall, 10 a.m. The Art Shack, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, Tuesday 11th August 10.15 a.m. Coastal Meeting Point, St. Peter’s Hall, Greatstone, St Mary’s Bay Camera Club, Village Hall, 8 p.m. 10 a.m. Heysham Hall Computer Club, Lydd-on-Sea, 7.30 p.m. Coffee Morning & Bric a Brac, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on-Sea, 10 a.m. Friday 7th August Dymchurch Art Society, Village Hall, 1 p.m. Cuppa & Chat, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on-Sea, 10 a.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, Chichester Memorial Hall, The Art Shack, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, Sandgate, 2 p.m. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. New Romney Bridge Club, Old School, 2 - 5 p.m. Cash Bingo, New Romney Bowls Club, 7.30 p.m. New Romney Craft Group, Old School, 7 p.m. ‘Shades of the 70s’ concert, St. Nicholas Church, Lydd Twinning Meeting, Guildhall, 7.30 p.m. New Romney, 7.30 p.m. Wednesday 12th August Saturday 8th August Romney Marsh Walking Society, Bethersden Church The Art Shack, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, (4 miles), 10 a.m. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. St. Mary’s Bay Computer Club, Village Hall, 10 a.m. & Coffee Morning, Newchurch Church, 10.30 a.m. 1.30 p.m. Summer Fayre & Teddy Bear Jump, All Saints Church, Marvellous Moths, RSPB Dungeness, 11 a.m. Lydd 10.30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Purly Girlies for Knitters, Brooks Café, Hythe, 2 p.m. Dungeness in the Dark, RSPB Dungeness, 8.30 p.m. Country Mice Needle Craft Club, Old School, Sunday 9th August New Romney, 7 p.m. The Art Shack, Romney Marsh Visitor Centre, Royal British Legion, Broadacre Hotel, New Romney, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 7 p.m. Ballroom/Sequence/Line Dancing, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 7 p.m.

Monday 10th August Crafters & Knitters, Hardy Hall, Lydd, 10 a.m. Dymchurch Meeting Point, Methodist Church, 10 a.m. New Romney 65 Club, Prescott House, Rolfe Lane, 2 p.m. Greatstone WI Croquet Competition, ‘The Hobbits’, Meehan Road, 2 p.m. New Romney History Society, Old School, 7.30 p.m. Romney Marsh Flower Arrangers, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 7.30 p.m.

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To be published shortly: Marsh Memories ‘Romney Marsh from the air’. The Marsh as you have never seen it before Compiled by John Wimble with over 100 photos. Call 01797-362295 to reserve a copy.

Above: New Romney High Street about 60 years ago. The road appears fairly wide opposite where the library is today.

Left: It was very narrow at the junction with West Street and Lions Road by the Cinque Ports Inn. The road here was widened in the early 1960s to accommodate the power station traffic.

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up an online facebook page called ‘Save the Star in Last orders for Lydd’ which voiced local peoples concerns about the current state of the building, as many of the windows historic pub have been smashed and glass was showered all over Residents of Lydd are worried about the future the pavements. development of The Star public house in Station Road The pub was listed by English Heritage in November which has fallen into a decline since it served its last 1950 and noted for its historic value to the town. pint three years ago. Local resident, Jean Double said: ‘As a Grade II listed building situated within Lydd's Conservation Area, why should it be allowed to stand and decay, become a fire hazard and be ignored by the local authorities?’ Bari Watts, who was one of the founder members of the facebook group, told The Looker; “I have been in touch with Shepway District Council regarding the current state of the building and asked if the council had any enforcement rights to make sure that the owner does not allow the building to deteriorate further and was told ‘There is no statutory duty on the owners to maintain a listed building, but it is common sense as timely repairs help to limit more extensive works. The local authority does have powers to enforce certain works but these are How the pub looked in the 1950s. in fact very limited and convoluted. The works have in Despite several people looking at the hostelry and the first instance to be urgently necessary for the hoping to return it to its former glory as one of Lydds continued preservation of the listed building and that is ‘best pubs’, it was deemed ‘too far gone’ by one local not the case with the Star Inn. I have myself advised pub owner who looked into buying the it. He told The several people of this in respect of the Star Inn over the Looker; “The pub may structurally be ok, but the reality last couple of years. The condition of the building does was that the cellar and the actual bar was in a terrible not necessitate in my view any action, the broken glass state. To bring the pub back to a standard that would be is not a concern as it is not historic and can be replaced. attractive to customers, you would have to spend at least I appreciate that it may be a concern for pedestrians and £100,000 before you even opened the doors, on-top of I will endeavour to pass on your concern to the relevant the purchase price and any other cosmetic section in the”. improvements”. Although new to Lydd, Bari said; “It’s such a lovely old With some people blaming the changes in licensing laws building I just hope that the current owner does not have to all day opening hours making the pub not cost plans for it to just decay and then say that it is beyond effective, trade in seemed to dwindle over the past few repair! We really do not want to see a group of town years of trading. houses there”. The current owner of the pub put forward to the council One of the options put forward was for a group of locals outline planning to convert the building into two cottages, to form a co-operative and buy the pub, in the same way but this was turned down by both Lydd Town and that the locals did with the Farriers Arms near Shepway District Council. Brabourne. But as one local said; “You would struggle to It is thought that the new proposal is to convert the pub sell the tickets in Lydd. What we need is a small group into one large house. of people to get together and run it as a community Niki Grant who used to work as a barmaid at the pub set project and maybe a nice restaurant”. What do you think about the demise of this classic old pub. Contact The Looker. [email protected]

How the pub looks now with boarded up windows.

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Woodchurch Morris Men were only too happy 1st New Romney Beavers to help out with this. After a warm up session the Beavers worked very hard to learn and go Global!! perform Shepherd’s Hey. Richard Fair, spokesperson for the Morris 1st New Romney Beavers recently completed their Global Men stated the beavers worked very hard and Challenge Badges with a visit from the Woodchurch Morris Men. responded extremely well to instructions. He, Beavers have been busy all term completing the various stages along with other members of the group was for their badge. These have included researching and learning delighted to present the Beavers with their the Beaver promise from other countries; making and playing an well deserved Global Challenge Badges. instrument from another country – the Beavers made Bongo Beaver Leader Leah-Ann Mooney stated it drums and entertained parents and guests at a recent AGM. was great to see the concentration on the Beavers faces and it was smiles all round when they received the badges – recognition of all the hard work from Beavers and Leaders. Beaver groups across the Romney Marsh are currently recruiting for the Scouting Adventure for the coming year. If your child is aged 5½ or over please contact your local group or visit the website of the 1st New Romney Scout Group - www.1stnewromneyscoutgroup.org and we will point you in the right direction.

Woodchurch Morris Men teaching the art of Morris Dancing to a new generation They had to learn about the Country Code, which involved a series of walks and outdoor activities in the local area. For the section on wildlife conservation they learned about the re-introduction of the Beaver into the UK. The busy Beavers are also planning a visit to the Ham Fen Nature Reserve in Sandwich next term, part of Kent Wildlife Trust, where they are involved in a long term project to successfully re-introduce the Beaver into the wild . The final challenge was to learn a traditional folk dance and the

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Page 12 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015 New council houses handed over The first two new council houses have been handed over to new tenants in Tourney Road, Lydd. These are the first of a planned 300 new council houses which Shepway District Council has pledged to build over the next ten years. Cllr Alan Ewart-James, Shepway District Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said he was delighted that the homes in Tourney Road were proving popular. “When I last visited the houses, the wiring was being finished, the walls and floors were bare and the Cllr Alan Ewart~James with new tenant Valerie Hall kitchens were waiting to be fitted. Now they are bright, welcoming homes that are really appreciated.” way for these new builds, across the country councils Valerie Hall who has just moved into one of the Tourney have faced criticism over selling of council houses over Road homes said: “It’s a really lovely house and my the past 30 years and not replacing stocks, but this is health is a lot better since we moved here. I used to something that myself and former New Romney have to use a puffer for my asthma all the time but Councillor David Wimble pushed for and the council ear since we moved here, I haven’t used it once. I am marked £30 million pounds to build these new houses really pleased to be close to my daughter and new and I hope we get our fair share of properties here on grandchild who live locally, and having shops within the Marsh, and importantly we both stressed that walking distance makes a real difference. My husband priority should be given to local people.” and I both work and it’s a lot more convenient to travel The two houses in Lydd and three in are the to work – and great that we are now on a bus route. I first to be completed as part of the council’s £30m know it’s the first council house that has been built for investment programme which will see 300 new homes more than 20 years – they should definitely build more built over the next 10 years. The homes are being let at for people who need them.” affordable rents through the Shepway Housing List. “The houses have been designed to be homes for life. In a press statement the council said; “The home People will not have to move – even if their needs building is just part of the council’s commitment to change,” said Cllr Ewart-James. provide more homes for local people. Over the next Lydd Town and District Councillor Clive Goddard told year the council and its partners aim to provide up to The Looker; “Its fantastic that Shepway are leading the 100 new homes across the district.”

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 13 New Romney Country Fayre comes of age as

Once again the Country Fayre managed to pick just the right day for this annual event. With horrendous rain the day before and overcast skie the following day, the sun shone brightly as thousands of people turned up to witness the fun and frivolity that ensues every year. The procession was a little down on numbers this year compared to other years with Operation Stack accounting for many of the other 'Carnival Courts' not attending. But with the emphasis very much on being a family community event, as always the committee delivered! A string of visiting dignitaries, made the annual visit to the town including the Bishop of Dover and a number of Mayors including Emily Arnold from Folkstone along with Michael Lyons from Hythe and Tom Dawes from Lydd. Dymchurch was represented by Council Leader Roger Wilkins and the District County member Carole Waters helped to fill up the VIP enclosure alongside presiding New Romney

Page 14 www.thelooker.co.uk it celebrates 21 years of fun in the community

Town Mayor Patricia Rolfe. The Country Fayre is regarded as the largest Annual free event in Shepway and for many it is about meeting up with fellow locals who seem to come out in there droves to support the event. Steve Bolton again took up the reins of being event master of ceremonies and throughout the day kept everybody up to date with what was going on, and reminded everyone that the Fayre was an independent event organised by a string of ‘local’ people and as such was not backed by any official body. This makes the Fayre all the more special, as it is run by a very friendly committee of about half a dozen people who undertake the majority of the work, with another group of helpers leading up to the event. Again the people of New Romney should be grateful for such a fantastic event, that puts the Cinque Ports town of New Romney on the Carnival map!

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Over 200 pictures on our website www.thelooker.co.uk

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The Red Lion at wins another award The Campaign for Real Ale & Romney Marsh Pub of the Year for 2015. The Red Lion at Snargate holds many different accolades but recently it once again scooped the Campaign for Real Ale Pub of the year award and also celebrated 30 years of being in the Good Beer Guide. The pub which is run by Landlady Doris Jemison who presides behind the bar, runs the pub with her Landlady Doris Jemison daughter Kate. It has not changed much since its opening in the 16th Century and part of the charm of the pub is that it has not changed hardly at all in the past 100 years and is very reminiscent of going into a wartime pub. With plenty of original period pictures and ‘dig for victory’ posters on the wall. You will not find any juke boxes or fruit machines in this fantastic pub, but you will always find a very warm welcome and some amazing beer.

Roger Protz of the Good Beer Guide presents Doris & Kate with an award for being in the Good Beer Guide for 30 years.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 17 6th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk NRTC, it is now time to stand up and be counted and not let SDC ride roughshod over the Romney Marsh, LOOKER which seems to finish at the bottom of Sandgate Hill. If SDC are not going to help the Marsh, then let's split LETTERS from them and really become the Fifth Continent. We Dear Editor, can do it as we have before, so come on NRTC, get As I don't live on the Marsh I don't get to read every some backbone and stop being browbeaten by SDC. issue of The Looker, but those I do get hold of make Yours, interesting reading. Tony & Janet Spiers and family. Mark Newson's article on 'Stop the developers' (24th June) was very interesting so I hate to upset Mark more Hi David, than he already is. Thank you for an excellent article regarding beach However, I do have to update Mark when he states that landings, this has been more useful than anything put Bromley will soon become an extension of London. out by authorities, you have given us hope. Sorry Mark, but this year marks the 50th anniversary of Most people tell me they have given up reporting Bromley becoming a London Borough!! sightings due to inertia by authorities and the Dave Fletcher. apparently ridiculous answerphone service, their comments, not mine. Dear Looker, One gentleman told me about a large group of Chinese Are we to gather that there is fresh momentum towards he saw in a field last week at Jefferstone Lane; leather self-government for Romney Marsh? suit cases and other bags stacked against the fence. It has been intimated that sales of the Romney Marsh Some of the Chinese were wearing white suits.Two flag was one of the best sellers at the New Romney Toyota pick ups and a van came along, the Chinese Country Fair on the 25th July. Only last month it was boarded with their luggage and were taken away. The announced that Cornwall has been given devolved gentleman told me that he did not inform the police as powers. he has given up reporting such events, he said that This follows over 30 years of campaigning and the nothing is ever done about it. widespread adoption of the Cornish flag (white cross on We had a similar situation a few weeks ago at St. black background), so perhaps we can look forward to Mary's Bay, two men of a certain regular description similar powers later this century? were waiting at the bench, everytime some one out The Marshman. walking came near, they moved away, then returned to the bench. Dear Looker, My wife reported the matter to Kent police, but gave up How is it that New Romney can spend x amount of after waiting on the phone for fifteen minutes. thousands on an outside gym on The Greens but can't Let's keep our excellent local police officers separate spend a few hundred pounds on refurbishing from the criticism, they are doing a good job despite the benches outside the Methodist Church in the High poor budget and little support, without them, there is Street. They are a total disgrace. NO defence. Have New Romney Town Council got in touch with I reported the St. Mary's Bay sighting to councillor Ian Shepway D.C. on the state of the children's playground Meyers, who promptly attempted to dismiss the claim in Station Road after the water company left? My wife rather than take a positive or motivated approach. has lived here all of her life and it has never been We no longer report night time activities along the flooded or become a quagmire before. When beach by vehicles moving without lights, nor other backfilling, the clay was put on the top, therefore not activities, which are clearly not fishermen. Locals do allowing surface water to drain away. When work was know what goes on, on the beach and across The carried out on the sports field, drainage pipes were Marsh, we are not daft. destroyed but never replaced and this has also become The deepening situation, including Stack, is the direct a quagmire. result of EU legislation and a weak Westminster I have been on to Shepway D.C. without any action Parliament. being taken. I am afraid, to date, The Looker appears more effective

Page 18 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015 than Westminster, The BBC and local authorities, in taking a positive step forward. Well done and thank you. Barry Gilbert.

Dear Looker, The problem that continues to raise its ugly head on a more regular basis on the M20 is as we know, due either to industrial action by the French workers or an attempt by illegal immigrants to enter the country by way of Dover or Folkestone. So without getting into the politics of the problem and the various reasons for the blockade of the ferry’s and tunnel, we are left with local people being to say the least very seriously inconvenienced on an ever increasing number of occasions, not forgetting the disruption to local trade. To alleviate some of the disruption, various suggestions have been put forward, for example the construction of lorry parks at numerous sites including Sellinge where something like1,500lorries could be catered for. We have also had some hair brained scheme where it was suggested Manston airport may be given some consideration. That is all very well (not forgetting the misuse of arable land) but at one time there were estimated to be some 5,000 lorries parked on the M20 which means the motorway would still be blocked with the remaining 3,500 . It has recently been suggested that the London bound carriageway be turned into a contra flow system, where by using the hard shoulder you will have two lanes running, both east and west, at shall we say, a maximum speed of 40mph. Some will say that is easier said than done, but the weight of traffic itself will help to keep the speed down. Then up pops Highways and poo poo’s the idea on the grounds of safety, forgetting that the system is introduced whenever major Roadworks are in progress or after major accidents where the road is expected to be closed for a period of time. There will no doubt be minor accidents, but there are also accidents on any road where you have a free flow of traffic running in opposite directions but with this system, because the speed will be reduced, the impacts will be less and in the sad event of a personal injury accident occurring, the emergency services could be on the scene within minutes, by using the two empty centre lanes between the parked east bound lorries. It may also be necessary to periodically leave a gap, of say 25 yards between Lorries in the outside lane, to assist emergency services get closer to the central reservation crash barrier as and if they are needed. Kind Regards, Brian Pitcher.

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Page 20 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015 Hythe Love Life Fest Saturday 22nd August, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oaklands Park, Hythe. Free entry. Oaklands Park will be the setting for LoveLifeFest, a delightful new community event in Hythe this August. In the tradition of the classic English Fete, there will be something for the whole family including hook-a-duck and much more. by Age UK Hythe and intriguing stalls, classic games, lively Games aren't just for the children and all proceeds will go towards entertainment and mouth-watering though - we'll be looking for sustaining our friendly and refreshments. teams for a giant tug-of-war too! flexible services which enable If you're not quite ready for a older people to live game, you can browse a independently at home. fantastic array of stalls selling Saturday 22nd August, 10 a.m. everything from handmade to 4 p.m. chocolate to garden ornaments. Oaklands Park, Hythe. And we're delighted to have Free entry. representatives from many local Contact Cathy Westbrook groups and societies, from family [email protected] history to model railways. So 01303-269602. The bandstand will be alive with music and come and find out what's going For all the latest news please dance all day. The spirit of Elvis will be with on in the local area. see Like LoveLifeFest on us in the form of The King Elvises; guitarists LoveLifeFest is being organised Facebook. John Chapman and Mike Broomfield will be singing pop classics and we'll have songs from the musicals from the I'm A Performer young people's group, local favourites The Channel Hoppers swing dance group, St Hilda's Ukeleles, Hawkinge Flyers Majorettes and Saltwood Bell-Ringers will be joined by guests from further afield. Moving Memory is a dance company with a difference - watch out for the sting in the crinoline as these Queen B's take you by surprise! Medway's award-winning Rivervoice Choir brings visually impaired and sighted singers together in beautiful harmony to open proceedings on the stage at 10.30 a.m. While you're watching the entertainment, you'll be able to relax and enjoy some delicious snacks. We've got lots of choice from strawberries and Pimms to burgers or paella. Children will love the bouncy castle, facepainting, hoopla, test-your-strength,

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Lydd Life. The Marshman catches up on what’s happening in Lydd. Lydd’s Garden Party Success It’s pleasing to report that the long awaited Garden defibrillator Party was a success, with many thanks to the helpers and of course to Anne and Peter Payne for their odyssey goodwill and efforts in agreeing to host the event and work so hard on the day. The sun was around most of rolls on the time for almost 50 friends to make the most of the afternoon and the luncheon. After being denied a home by the Church, the suggestion that it be sited Lydd Twinning News outside the chemist in Lydd Lydd’s Twinning Association continues to give has been vetoed by Kent residents the opportunity to have an international Highways as the Phone box that gave the editor his idea for Lydd outlook. It has invited 20 French people from Etrechy to weatherproof wall cabinet spend a weekend in Lydd. extends too far from the wall, so causing a hazard to Should anyone want to host one or two visitors for the pedestrians. weekend, Trevor Allen would be pleased to hear from The latest idea, put forward by Looker editor David you (phone 01797-320781). It’s encouraging that this Wimble, is to use the redundant telephone box in far outpost of Kent keeps a wide outlook on the world Coronation Square. Let’s hope thatno one in Lydd has and looks for new opportunities for involvement outside need of its use in the near future! its parish boundaries. Would you like to be a town or village reporter for The Looker? We would like someone to cover Dymchurch, Hythe, Sandgate and Marsh villages. Help build your community newspaper. For more information contact David: 01797-364837 or e-mail: [email protected]

Page 22 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015 Local brewery launches second beer Folkestone and Hythe MP Damian Collins was invited along to the Romney Marsh Brewery for the launch of a new ‘local beer’ recently by the Romney Marsh Brewery. The beer went down well with Damian who said “It would make a fine addition to the Strangers Bar in the House of Commons”, and that he would look into getting the beer in as a guest ale. Following on the success of their Amber Ale two months ago, they have now launched a new Damian Collins and Brewery beer called Marsh founder Matt Calais undergoing Gold 3.8 percent some ‘quality control’ and a slightly stronger Best Bitter 4 percent. Matt told The Looker that he had been very pleasantly surprised by the way the first few months had gone and that it had exceeded his expectations. The brewery now has its own ‘off sales counter’ and as the news spreads more and more people are coming along to buy either the bottled beers or the new flasks of beer which can be bought back and re filled. If you have not tried any of the brewery’s beer, then get yourself down to: Unit 7 Jacks Park, Cinque Ports Road, New Romney, Romney Marsh, Kent TN28 8AN.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 23 6th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Marsh Radio presenter has still got the blues Local radio presenter Kevin Beale has just been nominated for the second year running for the National British Blues awards Independent Broadcaster of The Year. Kevin, who started his blues shows on Looker owned Romney Marsh FM six years ago told us; “This really is quite an accolade for me. Having been regarded as a bit of a ‘new boy on the block’, my show is made up of me playing some of the best in new blues music, mainly from the UK. “Since I started my shows, the listenership has grown and most weeks the postman brings a big bundle of new releases that different artist’s from all over the world in the hope that they will get played on my show”. Kevin, who show goes out on Channel Radio every Friday from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m., also has his shows broadcast on fifteen other stations world wide, including in America, Canada and Australia. Quality m Kevin only got involved with radio broadcasting when care fro 5 he undertook an eight-week course called ‘find your £12.6 er hour voice’ and organised by Romney Marsh FM, which was p designed to get long term unemployed people back into work. His radio shows have led to Kevin becoming quite a Reliable, consistent and local celebrity within the Blues fraternity and is widely professionalprofessional care in the comfort regarded as the man to get, for comparing Blues festivals in the south east. ofof youryour own home If you would like to hear some of Kevins shows you can listen online to some of his Looker Radio shows on our FFolkestone:olkestone: 01303 258348 NNewew RomneRomney:y: 01797 369907 website. wwww.aspirehomecarers.co.ukww.aspirehomecarers.co.uk

Page 24 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 6th August 2015 Goal Running This Sport was particular to East Kent and the Weald, though its origins are uncertain. In some references to the game it was said to have been originated by the Greeks. According to research it definitely became popular in the 18th and 19th Century’s and was played during the 20th Century as well, disrupted - it seems - by the two world wars, mainly due to the lack of young men to play and, I suspect, lack of spirit and social change. A passionate account is to be found in a book called “A Parcel Of Kent” by F.J. Harvey Darton in a chapter titled “The Running”. A first hand account was given to me by Mr Prior, from Lydd who played as a teenager before the WW2. He gave me an intriguing insight into the philosophy of the game along with a description of village life in by gone times. The spirit in which the game was played back in the day, is something that is impossible to recreate today, due to massive changes in how we like to spend our leisure time, modern influences and attitudes. We at Woodchurch Village Life Museum are dedicated to displaying historical exhibits of the local area spanning 1,000 years. Among these is the original Woodchurch Goal Running Flag. This, according to our records, was last used in a match in the 1930’s. As part of the World War 1 commemorations it was decided to hold a re-enactment of this forgotten game as an event on the 22nd of August in Woodchurch. It will take place in a field surrounding the Museum which was kindly donated for our use on the day by a local farmer. The game will be played by ladies and men who volunteer! The rules we will go by are slightly less complicated than the originals, which in any event veemed to vary from village league to Village league. Alongside the Goal Running Game re-enactment we are offering a fun family day including a Beer Tent, Live Music, Food, and Very Fun Dog Show for handlers under 14 years. Everyone is welcome and donations will be collected on the gate and during the day on behalf of the Museum. A programme kindly sponsored by Hobbs Parker will be on sale detailing the game and the Museum’s background. For details please go to our website www.woodchurchlifemuseum.com

The next edition of The Looker we celebrate our 5th birthday. If you have thought about advertising with us but so far never tried, call Gill and find out what a fantastic response our advertisers have had and why they keep coming back for more! Tel:01797-364837

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CRICKET

Dymchurch v Woodchurch Woodchurch won by 72 runs Woodchurch batted first in this Kent Village League game and made 219-8 after 40 overs. For Dymchurch, Jake Dean took 3-56 in nine overs. When Dymchurch batted, they could only reach 147-6 after their allotted 40 overs. Matthew Ford made 40 and Sam Lancaster 37. Lydd v Clive Vale Lydd won by 165 runs

A good win for the marsh side in this friendly match. They batted first and made 224-7 with M. Ham scoring 78 not out and Stephen Fletcher 71. The pair put on 152 for the third wicket and scored 23 boundaries between them. Clive Vale were never in the hunt and were all out for 59 in the 20th over. Darren Wolfe taking 3-8 in three overs. Challock v Brookland Challock won by 148 runs

Another defeat for Brookland in this League game. Challock made 228-7 when they batted and Jack Meadows was the most successful Brookland bowler, taking 3-30. When the Marsh side went in, they could only make 80 after 30 overs. Antony Stanley top-scored with 23.

A selection of fine Romney Marsh ales now available to take away in bottles, 4 pint jugs or (if pre-ordered) 9, 18 & 36 pint bag in boxes. Come visit our newly opened brewery shop.

Call for opening hours on 01797 362333

[email protected]

Unit 7 Jacks Park, Cinque Ports Road, New Romney, Romney Marsh, Kent, TN28 8AN

Hand-reared on the Kent frontier

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categories. 10th Folkestone Rotary Again we shall be holding a children’s race, so everyone can join in. Half Marathon Ray Johnson, Race Director, comments: 27th September at 10 a.m. “This year we are incorporating chip timing for the first Plus children’s race – 10.30 a.m. time which will mean fast, accurate results on the day. The Folkestone Rotary Club will be holding their annual The main charities that this year’s event will be half marathon on the 27th September. This year is extra supporting are Kent Multiple Sclerosis Therapy Centre special as it is the 10th anniversary of the event. To and The Folkestone Rotary Club ‘Folkestone Project’ celebrate this, special commemorative medals will be and runners will also have the opportunity to raise given to all finishers as well as specially-priced souvenir money for their chosen charity. It is possible to enter T-shirts. Once again the race will be passing under the online at www.nice-work.org.uk or turn up on the day, Step Short WWI Memorial Arch. although pre-registration is recommended. The winning man and lady will receive £100 each, “Last year we raised over £35,000 for good causes and sponsored by Independent Insurance Services. In we are hoping to exceed this amount this year addition there will be prizes and medals for various “We encourage early registrations, which you can access through the website. Runners are able to enter on the day at The Grand from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. We welcome the public to spectate and support the runners.” The course has been measured to comply with UK Athletics rules and will commence on The Leas, go through some of Folkestone town centre, down the Road of Remembrance and will follow the seafront to Hythe. There is a loop near The Green and back up Albert Road then back along the seafront to Folkestone, before returning up the hill - Road of Remembrance (‘the sting in the tail’) at around 12.15 miles to finish up outside The Grand.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 27 6th August 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Cheers! New brew for Venetian Fete

A REAL ale especially created to help promote the Hythe Venetian Fete has been honoured with a ceremonial tasting. Pictured raising a glass (left to right): Peter Dorman, Potting Shed Real Ale Bar, Hythe; Daryl Stanford, Hopfuzz Brewery, ; John Schoner, chairman of the Hythe Venetian Fete Society; Cllr Michael Lyons, Mayor of Hythe; Bob Stanford, chairman, Kent Campaign for Real Ale. Brand-named Fete Accompli, the new brew now goes on sale at pubs in Shepway and East Kent. The Venetian Fete takes place on the Royal Military Canal on Wednesday, August 19th. For ticket prices, booking arrangements and latest programme news, visit www.hythe-venetian fete.com

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