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The Only ‘FREE’ Newspaper To Cover The , Hythe And Sandgate Issue 142 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Sands Motel Plan Faces Storm Of Protest The approval by Shepway’s District Council’s development control committee for development of 85 houses and flats on the site of the former Sands Motel in St Mary’s Bay has been met with a storm of protest. The site has planning approval for the development which would Concerns over increased air sea rescue flights spark debate include a ‘coastal park’ and car-park. The 8-acre site (3.3 Action Group Warns Of Nuclear Risk hectares) is offered for Airport Action Group (LAAG) has probability of a serious aircraft accident development by Caxtons found that a planning condition related at the nuclear complex to Chartered Surveyors in to Lydd Airport’s approval for extension further exceed the nuclear regulator’s Canterbury for 59 houses and 26 in 2013 has been altered to allow threshold of acceptability. apartments. unlimited helicopter flights. However, Lydd Airport was keen to put The change allows for no restriction on the case to The Looker in support of the the number of Search & Rescue (SAR) importance of the SAR service. “HM helicopter flights at the Airport once its Coastguard’s SAR helicopter service runway has been extended. Bristow provides a 24/7 emergency response”, Helicopters Ltd currently operates the said a spokesperson. “Our aircraft will service, having been forced to relocate only fly either to conduct a lifesaving to Lydd from August 2015 after the SAR operation or to undertake the most closure of Manson Airport. essential crew training. Since the Lydd The SAR service uses aircraft types base launched in August 2015, they which LAAG believes have the critical have flown a total of 326 operational or mass to cause a serious radiological training flights. However, strong opposition to the release if an accident occurred at the “Our SAR aircraft operate in accordance proposal had been voiced by St Dungeness nuclear complex which is with the requirements of national Mary’s Bay’s villagers who had less than 3 miles from the airport. The airspace regulation and Lydd Airport’s witnessed the destructive effects service has also been granted access to agreed entry and departure routes. of violent winds on the previous flight paths denied to other aircraft due Every effort is made to minimise Sands Motel which was badly to nuclear safety concerns. In disturbance to the local community and combination with the increase in while our operation may have an damaged in the Great Storm of aeroplane activity once Lydd Airport’s alleviation to fly through the restricted 1987. runway is extended, the SAR service area surrounding Dungeness, we can Local campaigner, Louise Barton increases the potential for the assure the community that wherever Continued Page 2... Continued Page 3... Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters

Continued from Front Page... possible, flights through this airspace will be avoided.” Caravan goes up in Helicopter flights at Lydd Airport are currently unrestricted until the runway is extended. A condition was put in place flames within the Government’s approval that helicopter movements Fire crews were called to the New Beach Holiday could not exceed 1200 each year - a figure based on Lydd Park in on Wednsday night, just after Airport’s claimed number of annual helicopter movements in 7pm. 2005. Two fire appliances However, this condition has now been changed to exclude were called to the SAR flights which LAAG believes means an unlimited scene, with fire- number of SAR flights could be made in addition to 1200 fighters doing their non-SAR flights. The Airport estimates that this could be best to contain the around 1800 SAR flights per annum (300 call out and 1500 fire, but it was too training). This would indicate around 3000 possible annual late to save the helicopter movements, compared to the historic figure of caravan. 1200 per annum. These flights will be in addition to the A Fire and maximum permissible number of fixed wing flights of 40,000 Rescue Service per annum compared to the historic figure of around 21,000 spokesman said: “Crews were faced with a well per annum, most of which were by light aircraft (maximum established fire on arrival.” They used breathing take-off weight). apparatus, a main jet and compressed air foam What do Looker readers think? Do you believe that having an system to put out the blaze. There were no effective search and rescue service operating from Lydd casualties but the caravan was destroyed by fire, Airport is a vital contributor to our sea safety capacity, or do smoke and heat. Crews were at the scene for almost you think that some restrictions in frequency or times of an hour and 20 minutes and the cause of the blaze flights should be applied? Let us know via our usual e-mail: is not yet known. [email protected] or write to us.

Page 2 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Bay Planning Dispute Continued from Front Page.... raises some interesting points about the plan. “Although the site was included in the Local Plan, this proposal is nevertheless inappropriate in this configuration,” she said. “There will only be an allocation of seven affordable homes which is contrary to the 30 per cent required in modern developments. There also be no ‘In perpetuity’ clause on these homes so it means there is a good chance the properties will eventually pass out of the hands of local people.” However, Cllr Jennifer Hollingsbee (Con) was delighted with the outcome. “I am really pleased this has come forward,” she said. “I know there is some concern about the intensity of the development, but I believe the benefits outweigh those concerns. It is only half the site that is being built on and the other half has the coastal park and a public car-park,” although The Looker wonders how much fun the residents of 85 homes will have in the 15 metres allocated for the ‘coastal park’. Cllr Mary Lawes of UKIP believes it will be a pull for tourists “who will have access to the coastal park and beach”. buildings on ground higher than the road so there The homes will have to be built on a five-metre will be an enormous difference as if they were high platform to mitigate against the effects of four to five-storey buildings,” she said. flooding - there were no objections from the main Although 66 local people made written objections flood regulatory bodies, the Environment Agency to the scheme, Council officers had and Kent County Council. recommended approval of the proposal, citing Residents have pointed out that high tides this that it was safe in highway terms and the car park year have thrown shingle over the sea wall where and coastal park would boost tourism. the homes are due to be sited. It is also alleged that the high nature of these three to four storey buildings will in themselves represent an extensive increase in the magnitude of wind against surface areas. Villager and retired government scientist points out that there is no develop - ment of this height on the A259 between Hythe and . “This current development on the north side of the road is two metres below the road and mainly has one or two-storey homes. On the other side there will be

Page 3 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters A soldier who was awarded Sandgate the Victoria Cross was remembered with a new Salutes memorial today – 100 years after the action which led to his recommendation. Local Corporal William Cotter, who was born in and Hero whose parents lived in Sandgate, was recently By David Wimble honoured in a ceremony at the village church and war memorial. Parish Councillor Robert Bliss told The Looker: “This is a very important day for Sandgate and we felt that it was A letter signed by King George V to William's parents. an occasion to be marked with a special event like this, For two hours he steadied the men holding the crater, to have so many representatives from the armed forces controlled their fire and prepared them against a counter- and also relatives of Corporal Cotter with us helps tell attack. the whole story of this exemplary serviceman.” He only allowed his wounds to be “roughly dressed” Following the service at St Paul's Church, Sandgate Hill, when the attacks quietened down, according to the there was procession to the war memorial in Sandgate citation in the London Gazette published on March 28, High Street with dignitaries and guests awaiting the 1916, two weeks after his death, aged 33. arrival of a parade being led by the Band of the Princess Cpl Cotter lived long enough to know that his actions had of Wales’s Royal Regiment. been successfully recommended for the Victoria Cross Cpl William Cotter was awarded the Victoria Cross in the and Lt-Gen Sir Hubert Gough, commander of I Corps, First World War pinned the medal to his chest while he lay in hospital at The new paver was unveiled by the Lord Lieutenant of Lillers. Kent, The Viscount De L’Isle, at 3.15pm at the memorial. At the time, The Buffs were serving as part of the 37th

Dozens of Cpl Cotter's descendants attended the Brigade in the 12th Eastern Division. commemorations. Cpl Cotter was born in Folkestone in 1882 and was the Cpl Cotter succumbed to the injuries he suffered eight eldest of six sons of Richard and Amy Cotter, who lived days after the action while serving with the 6th Battalion at Barton Cottages in Sandgate. The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) at the Hohenzollern His father was Irish and worked as a plasterer’s labourer. Redoubt at Loos in France between March 6 and 7, His five younger brothers also served during the war. 1916. Cpl Cotter’s parents received the medal in memory of With his right leg blown off at the knee and wounds in their son from King George V at Buckingham Palace. both his arms, Cpl Cotter’s incredible bravery saw him He had written to them expressing his “sincere regret” crawl back to his unit 50 yards away which was pinned that he would not be able to present it to Cpl Cotter down inside a crater to lead his men. He spent 14 hours personally. in the field unable to be taken back to British lines.

Page 4 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Police are investigating a Despicable reported burglary at the home RNLI Easter Fun Day of former Hythe town mayor The RNLI Lifeboat Station at Dungeness is holding an Raid On Christopher Capon, who died Easter ‘Tea & Coffee Day’ on Sunday 27th March from last month. 10am until 4pm Former Mr Capon’s home in Seabrook A range of events for all the family will take place, Road, Hythe, is thought to including Easter Egg Hunts for children from 10.30am Mayor’s have been broken into until 12pm and a raffle. sometime between 22 and 28 At 2pm, judges will be casting their critical eyes over Home February. Three medals and a entrants in the Easter Bonnet Competition and the whole commemorative cut glass event will raise much needed funds for the RNLI’s work bowl were among the items reported stolen. The town’s in our area to save lives at sea. youngest ever mayor and freeman of the town died on Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available February 18th after a brave battle with cancer. throughout the day in the crew room. For further information, contact the RNLI station on 01797 320062 or check www.lifeboatdungeness.org.uk.

Former Mayor Chris Capon “Mr Capon’s family is devastated that someone could have broken into his home and stolen such treasured items”, said investigating officer Detective Constable Dave Hart. “We are determined to bring the offender to justice.” The MBE which Mr Capon was awarded in 2012 for services to local government was taken, along with his Honorary Freeman of Hythe Medal and his Hythe Town Council Medal. A cut glass commemorative vase with the Hythe coat of arms etched on the side, which was presented to him in recognition of his service as the town’s mayor, was also taken. Detective Constable Hart said: ‘We would like to hear from anyone who saw people acting suspiciously in the area during those dates,” said Detective Constable Hart. A neighbour of the Capon family saw a man walking down the side of the property on Saturday 27 February, and the Police are very keen to speak to him, as he may be able to help them with their enquiries. This man is described as being aged between 40 and 50, white, with blond hair and of a medium build. He was wearing a black jumper and blue jeans. The Police would also like to hear from anyone who has been offered medals matching these descriptions to contact. If you have any information, please call on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111 quoting reference ZY/6675/16.

Page 5 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Shepway man jailed for 24 years for sex offences against children

A 62-year-old man has been jailed for 24 years for committing sex offences against two children. Robert Nelson Neill, from Shepway, was charged with one count of raping a child under 13, five counts of sexual assault, one count of inciting sexual activity with a child, four counts of making indecent images and one count of taking an indecent image. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and was sentenced at Canterbury Crown Court on Thursday 3 March after being convicted on Monday 25 January. The offences were committed between January 2011 and October 2014. Detective Constable Rebecca Thomas, the investigating officer, said: ‘Neill has abused two young children in a shocking and predatory way and they have shown a tremendous amount of courage and bravery to speak out against this man. ‘I welcome the sentence Neill has received and I hope this serves as a message to victims that we take all reports of sexual abuse seriously and we will be relentless in bringing offenders to justice for them.’

Page 6 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 It was a particularly rewarding He has also A Proud day for Alderman Fred Wood- supported Brignall on February 19th, many local Day At when he received his MBE at organisations, Buckingham Palace. including The Accompanied by his wife Scouting, the Margaret and sons Richard and Sea Scouts Palace Jeffrey, he received his award and Lydd from HRH Prince Charles after football Club. being named in the last New Year’s Honours List. “I would like to Alderman Wood-Brignall won the award for services to offer a big Lydd and Romney Marsh – which he has been providing thank you from for more than 60 years. the family to The family were treated like royalty when they arrived at two local the Palace via the Inner Quadrangle and greeted by people - who members of the Royal Household including the Yeomen still wish to of the Guard. Fred was then directed to join other remain Honours recipients on the day, while the family were anonymous - entertained in the Ballroom by the Duchess of Wessex’s for their hard Stringed Orchestra until the ceremony began, during work in which the Orchestra continued to play throughout. preparing and At 11am, HRH Prince Charles entered the Ballroom submitting the nomination for the MBE,” added Fred. “It preceded by the Yeomen of the Guard and two members took more than 18 months to gather all the necessary of the Ghurkha Rifles and the hour-long Honours information, including obtaining a number of character Ceremony began. His Highness worked his way through references from local people. And to all those who a total of 72 awards including Knighthoods, OBEs, MBEs supported the nomination in any way, again a big thanks and even a Victoria Medal. Each recipient was presented from a family who are so proud of what we have with their award which was followed by a brief achieved.” conversation with the future King of the Realm. The Looker must add its congratulations to Fred MBE for At the end of the ceremony, following the playing of the his sterling and selfless service for so long in our area. national Anthem and the exit of HRH, recipients and family & friends were reunited to enjoy time together prior to leaving the Palace. “It was a great day to cherish for all the family and one that I much to my wife Margaret for as she has always been by my side to support me,” said a proud Fred. His CV provides the impressive evidence of the reason for his Honour – more than 30 years with the Lydd Fire Service; many years on the Town Council (including seven as Mayor); service on Shepway District Council and Kent County Council on which he also served as Chairman; a Freeman of the town; an Alderman of Kent, and last but not least the award of the Kent Medal for services to fire safety.

Page 7 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters St. Mary’s Bay Computer Club, Village Hall, 10 a.m. & Dates For Your Diary 1.30 p.m. Purly Girlies for Knitters, Brooks Café, Hythe, 2 p.m. Thursday 17th March Woman's Wednesday Club, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on- Lydd Meeting Point, Hardy Hall, 10 a.m. Sea, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. New Romney Meeting Point, Methodist Church Hall, Country Mice Needle Craft Club, Old School, New Rom - 10 a.m. ney, 7 p.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, Thursday 24th March 10.15 a.m. Lydd Meeting Point, Hardy Hall, 10 a.m. Dymchurch Heritage Group, Methodist Church Hall, New Romney Meeting Point, Methodist Church Hall, 7.30 p.m. 10 a.m. Heysham Hall Computer Club, Lydd-on-Sea, 7.30 p.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, St Mary’s Bay Camera Club, Village Hall, 8 p.m. 10.15 a.m. Friday 18th March Heysham Hall Computer Club, Lydd-on-Sea, 7.30 p.m. Cuppa & Chat, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on-Sea, 10 a.m. St Mary’s Bay Camera Club, Village Hall, 8 p.m. Whist & Scrabble, St. Peter’s Hall, Greatstone, 2 p.m. Good Friday 25th March Friday Children’s Club, Romney Marsh Community Easter Egg Hunt, RSPB Dungeness, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Centre, 6 p.m. (7-10 years) Saturday 26th March Pulse Youth, Romney Marsh Community Centre, Romney Marsh Walking Society, Dukes Head, , 7.30 p.m. (11-15 years) 10 a.m. (4 miles) Cash Bingo, New Romney Bowls Club, 7.30 p.m. Easter Egg Hunt, RSPB Dungeness, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sequence Dancing, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 7.30 Friends of Lydd Museum open 2.30 p.m. – 5 p.m. p.m. Easter Sunday 27th March Saturday 19th March Coffee Day, RNLI Dungeness, 10 a.m. Book Sale, St. Nicholas Church, New Romney, Easter Egg Hunt, RSPB Dungeness, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 10 a.m. – 12 noon Friends of Lydd Museum open 2.30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Coffee Morning, Methodist Church, New Romney, 10 a.m. Country Market, Hamstreet Victory Hall, 10 a.m. – 12 noon (Food, crafts & gifts) Walking for Health, George Hotel, Lydd, 10 a.m. Easter Market, St. Peter’s Hall, Greatstone, 10 a.m. – 12 noon Charity Tea Party in aid of Marie Curie Nurses, 30 High Knocke, Dymchurch, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday 20th March Worship Service, Romney Marsh Community Church, 10.30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Refreshments afterwards Monday 21st March Crafters & Knitters, Hardy Hall, Lydd, 10 a.m. Dymchurch Meeting Point, Methodist Church, 10 a.m. Scrabble & Rummikubs, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 10.30 a.m. New Romney 65 Club, Prescott House, Rolfe Lane, 2 p.m. Tuesday 22nd March Coastal Meeting Point, St. Peter’s Hall, Greatstone, 10 a.m. Coffee Morning & Bric a Brac, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on- Sea, 10 a.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, Keppels Bar, The Grand Hotel, Folkestone, 10.30 a.m.-11.30 a.m. Dymchurch Art Society, Village Hall, 1 p.m. Drop-in Centre, Romney Marsh Community Church, 6.30 p.m. (16 years plus) New Romney Craft Group, Old School, 7 p.m. Wednesday 23rd March Romney Marsh Walking Society, Cock Inn, Peasmarsh, 10 a.m. (4 miles)

Page 8 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016

Page 9 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters There's no music, no lager, no mobile phone, you have A local pub jukeboxes, fruit machines or to make a donation to the gastropub food even using RNLI collection box on for local your mobile phone is frowned the bar. Something that all upon!. Most importantly of all, the drinkers we spoke to people: it's intimate – housed in what agreed with. used to be the village tattoo When we asked a fellow ‘Micropubs' are shop. Welcome to Smugglers customer his opinion of catching on Ale House- New Romney’s New Romneys’ latest first micropub. hostelry he told The With its recent opening, the Smugglers is the latest in a Looker: “It's quite small growing trend of small micropubs, concentrating on with no frills," then added offering great locally sourced real ales and selected “But thats part of its wines. charm, because its When The smaller, it feels cosy and its get conversations starting Looker first between people who may not know each other. It's the popped in for a way pubs used to be with a great atmosphere - I’m a big pint, we loved the fan .” simple, unfussy The micropub's emergence comes at a very interesting décor and the time for the British brewing industry. Another of the last bustle of beer government's actions was the introduction of small drinkers doing brewers' relief, whereby those brewers who produced less what people than a certain amount paid less tax. The impact has been used to do in dramatic; there are now almost 800 breweries operating pubs… talking to each other -with no distractions. in the UK. Microbreweries' products are a natural fit for a The pub was the brainchild of Neil King and Lance Grist micropub. who already run a micropub in Folkestone (the Firkin). Pop along and give it a try, don’t forget to tell them The With Mitch Doran managing the latest venture down here Looker sent you! on the Marsh along with cheery barmaid Julie Jenkinson, Opening Times: Monday - Thursday Midday-9pm who is happy to recommend which beer to try first. Friday and Saturday Midday-10pm Mitch explained their policy of any loud electronic devices Sunday - Midday-4pm will not be allowed and if you are caught answering a

Page 10 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Romney Marsh Brewery the beers Local has been indorsed by came from winning the taste of Kent long term Brewery ‘Best Beer’ award at its first established attempt. breweries. Owner Matt Calais, told The The local Scoops Looker: “We are brewery nearly understandably very never was, Top Award pleased to receive this when its local recognition, just being short council - listed was nice, but to win was very satisfying and Shepway- rewarding.” refused The award ceremony was held at the Kent County planning Showground and the best beer category had 30 permission shortlisted beers including such brews as…Spirit of Kent, despite no Dragons Ale, Country Ale and Larkins Best and many of objection from anyone. Despite having to move to a new location the Brewery first went ‘live’ 12 months ago and has proved to be a great success not only across the Romney Marsh, but the whole of the South East. Matt who gave up his job as the executive producer of Channel 4’s television programme ‘Come Dine With Me’ has been very pro-active in promoting the brewery online through Facebook and via Twitter. The beer is now available directly from the brewery’s very own shop on the premises and can even be purchased in handy carry packs of bottled beer-which make excellent gifts- along with small kegs.

Page 11 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Easter Next Issue:Wedding Special Eggstravaganza Our next edition due out on Wednesday 30th March we will be At Dungeness featuring our ANNUAL WEDDING SPECIAL with all the information you need when planning your BIG day. If you would like to advertise your services in this edition, please give The Looker office a call on: 01797 364837

The following edition available on 13th April will contain a 4 page extra featuring the best photos in our PICTURE COMPETITION. We have been inundated with entries for this and we will be A series of special events to entertain announcing finalists in this edition and also on our website for and enthuse will take place at the you to choose your winner. RSPB’s Dungeness Nature Reserve We are hoping to produce a calender which will feature the best over the Easter holiday. photos..so watch this space! Running throughout the break will be Easter Egg Hunts from Friday, 25th Plus of course all the very latest news… March until Sunday, 10th April. Pick up an activity sheet from the visitor centre reception between 10am and 4pm and explore the trail to see if you can find all the eggs that have been hidden – a prize awaits if you find them all! (No booking needed; £1 per activity sheet; the usual fees apply for the nature trail). Between 11am and 1pm on Monday 28th March, a friendly guide will take you on an Easter Amble to help you walk off the Easter lunch and show what the reserve has to offer, from blooming buds to singing songbirds. (Adults £6.00 Children £3.00 20% discount for RSPB members and Wildlife Explorers). And finally, between 11am and 3pm on Thursday 31st March and Tuesday 5th April, the reserve’s Wild Families Days will give you a chance to get close to nature at Dungeness, from pond-dipping to scavenger hunting, den building and bug hunting - there will be plenty to keep you busy throughout the day. Bring a packed lunch and wear appropriate clothing, and please book in advance. (Child £8.00 and Accompanying adults £1.00 20% discount for Wildlife Explorers). For further information or to book for these events, contact the reserve on: 01797 320588 or e-mail: [email protected].

Page 12 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Shepway Shines For Queen’s Cleaners The Looker sent our wombling reporter Andrew South along ... It was a bright day with the sun shining on the rightly righteous as they did their bit for this year’s ‘Clean for the Queen’ campaign in Hythe recently. Transition Hythe joined with Clean Kent and other community volunteers to litter pick the town from top to bottom to make it look fit for…well, you know the rest.

The good people of Hythe were joining others from across Shepway - from Dungeness to the Leas, and Cheriton to New Romney in a campaign against litter aimed at making the country spick and span for the Queen’s 90th birthday in April (the actual one) and June (the official one). During the event 228 people collected 393 bags of rubbish as well as dozens of traffic cones, tyres, wheel trims and chairs. The count will continue to rise as other ‘Clean for the Queen’ events take place around the area, including Scouts and Cubs out in Sandgate last weekend, and a forthcoming stream clean and litter pick on 19 March. Saga and McDonalds are also mobilising staff whilst and other Marsh communities plan to get in on the act too. Cllr Stuart Peall, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “I applaud everybody who turned out to clean up their community. We can provide the kit and the bags but it is people volunteering to pick up litter that made ‘Clean for the Queen’ such a success. Obviously it would be even better if we hadn’t had to pick up other people’s rubbish, which is why we recently increased our enforcement team to catch more of the people who blight our beautiful district with litter. So if you do drop litter, please remember your litter is your own – please put it in a bin or take it home with you – or face a fine.” When The Looker took part in the Hythe event, it was apparent that the collection of all this waste should have been completely unnecessary. It really doesn’t take much effort to put brain in gear and litter in a bin. However, Transition Hythe will continue with its regular litter picks throughout the year on the first Saturday morning of each month – see www.transition-hythe.com for details.

Page 13 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Dymchurch Fire Station have with the 18-tonne engines used for every type of incident Dymchurch a new slim-line specialist fire but technology and fire fighting tactics have moved on.” appliance to assist with its Nick Chard, chairman of Kent and Medway Fire and Gets State rescue capability. Rescue Authority, said: “An important part of our plans to The new machine is only the modernise the service was to take advantage of new Of The Art second of new breed fire technology and make sure that fire-fighters had to right appliance to be given to a equipment to do the job. Fire station in kent. “The new engines and the equipment they carry are a Fears that the new engines good example of this and the new kit has already proved Appliance would not be as well its worth at many incidents including some major fires.” equipped with less Each new engines includes a thermal imaging camera, a equipment onboard have been dismissed by Kent Fire compressed air foam system, defibrillators and first aid and Rescue. kits, a light portable pump, and a larger capacity hose. The new machines weigh 12 tonnes, six less than Kent In addition they have a high pressure ventilator fan and a Fire and Rescue Service’s other appliances, and are fog spike, which punches holes through walls or roof tiles packed with specialist equipment. to allow water to be sprayed from the outside.

Dymchurch's new fire engine. Crew manager Dan Noonan receiving the keys from KFRS’s firefighting tactics manager, Phil Bailey. Chris Colgan, KFRS assistant director of response and training, explained: “KFRS found that it was using 40% of the equipment 80% of the time and that there was an opportunity to carry this equipment on a smaller engine to complement the existing larger vehicle without compromising any capability.” “A number of our fire engines were reaching the end of their life. “Traditionally we’ve employed a one size fits all model

Page 14 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 A calendar which came out of Cycles, Colourcraft Newsagents and That Pet Shop in MACH 3 an appeal for photographs New Romney High Street. submitted to a Facebook They also garnered support from the members grants of Boys group has raised more than local political representatives Mr Evans, Mrs Govett, and £1300 for the two local RNLI Mrs Hollingsbee, as well as selling the product at the Make Dates lifeboat stations. Littlestone Lifeboat open day and Lydd Late Night The social media group set Shopping Event. With up early in 2015 was called Shaun Simmons, Marsh Academy Principal, said “what a ‘Marsh Sunrises & More’ and fantastic effort from the students to engage in this local Lifesavers appealed for the local project and in raising a great amount of money for RNLI”. community to submit local And Judith Richardson, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer photos to the group with a view to producing a charity at Dungeness RNLI Lifeboat Station expressed the calendar. charity’s gratitude for the boys’ efforts. “On behalf of the Three pupils from the Marsh Academy then took up the RNLI I would like to thank the pupils of the Marsh challenge of researching, designing, seeking Academy for their involvement in the calendar project sponsorship, printing, marketing and selling the which raised the amazing amount of £1,307 for their calendars. Osamah Ahmad, Samuel Lett and Jaye local RNLI lifeboat stations. The RNLI as a charity relies Williamson found willing outlets in the form of Deblyn's on these donations to help continue saving lives at sea,” Tea Rooms, The Coach House Coffee Shop, Romney she said.

(Left to right) Osamah Ahmad, Matthew Crittenden (RNLI), Shaun Kirby (Marsh Academy), Tony Riddeck, Samuel Lett and Jaye Williamson

Page 15 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters the flags were free as the owners had flag poles, the Your Letters others cost only £10. Maybe the next batch to be Email: [email protected] ordered could be of a better quality with the outside or post to..10 Mulberry Court, Grand Parade, edges bound to give them extra strength. I for one would be happy to pay more for a flag rather than just New Romney, Kent. TN28 8LZ have it last for one year. It was so lovely to see them last THE NEED FOR INVESTMENT IN CYCLE PATH summer being flown so please don't let this project end Dear Looker, for the sake of a few more pounds. I am at a loss to understand why money has been spent Sally Maycock on the landscaping of the park in Red Lion Square, removing the shady trees etc., as it was perfectly THE FUTURE FOR BRITAIN OUTSIDE THE EU adequate for the time-being and ignoring the necessity of Dear Looker, refurbishing our Bridle Path/Cycle Path north of the I read all of the articles and letters in the 2nd March Canal from Scanlons Bridge. It is now a very dangerous issue of the Looker, on the pros and cons of staying in or place to ride or walk in good or bad weather. leaving the EU. This path is used by many people and holiday makers as I was not only old enough to vote in the 1970s a nice place to walk or cycle - getting cyclists off the referendum, but did vote! Prime Minister Ted Heath at Dymchurch Road is a most important factor and intro - the time spoke volumes about fully laden UK trucks ducing little children to their first taste at riding a two- going to the five existing members of the Common wheeler. The path is also marked-out as a National Market and creating wealth and prosperity for us all. He Cycle Path and many foreign tourists use it on their way never once spoke of the five trucks, from each of those across the Romney Marsh. five countries, coming our way, fully laden with their I have brought this matter up with local members of our goods. I easily saw through his propaganda and voted Council - nothing has been done at all. against continued membership of the Common Market. I understood there was sum of money available to the Many others voted 'anti' as well as me. Council to be put to the best use for the people of Hythe. Since those days, the UK has had a balance of trading Why was this project put aside? All I can say is that deficit, every year, with the Common Market, then the members of our Council do not actually walk or cycle this EEC and now the EU, which has gradually morphed into path to explore the beautiful countryside it offers and to a bloc of 28 countries from the original five. The game to take note of the amount of visitors coming to this area. play on the M20 now is 'spot the UK truck'. It is not easy! Alex Smith The 'in crowd' are keen to say that our trade with the Hythe other EU countries will suffer if we quit the 'club'. Of course it won't. France will still want to sell us Citroens THE POOR STATE OF MARSH FLAGS and Renaults; Germany will still want to sell us their Dear Looker, VWs, Mercedes and Opals; Italy would not want to lose How sad it is to see so many of the Romney Marsh flags our market for their washing machines, fridges and other reduced to just ribbons. When these flags were first sold 'white goods' and Holland would cry if they lost our they were seen all over Romney Marsh flying in all their market for their tomatoes, flowers and other produce, glory. Now they have either been taken down or are just and Spain would lose our market for their olives, oranges half a flag or ripped to pieces. I am sure the majority of and other produce. This is called TRADE! Outside of the EU, we would be able to better 'select' what we buy from the EU and would have more 'clout' over what they buy from us. A win, win situation! Our fishing industry would be reclaimed back from the French and Spanish fleets which hoover up everything in the sea. AS for employment, that would increase as our trade with the EU would not diminish but our trade with the rest of the world would increase. The 'doom mongers' should think more about our strength and heritage. We did not adopt the EURO despite many of those same 'doom mongers' predicting ruin if we did not join. WE MUST now quit the EU club

Page 16 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 and save millions of pounds being sent to Brussels Mittels theme for his display was ‘The Red Cross EVERY WEEK. This clique of unelected bureaucrats, Anniversaries; 160 or more pages covering being paid enormous salaries but failing to even have anniversaries from 1939 to 2014. A beautiful selection of the EU accounts signed off, must be shaking in their stamps, covers souvenir sheets and cards from around boots at the prospect of a BREXIT. the world. This was the third and last display from his I simply cannot understand why any Brit, apart from collection, seen over three years. young people who only think of holidays in the European Early in March we went to the Ashford Stamp Society to sunspots and nothing else and many who are paid huge give a display and Dover Stamp Society visit us in sums of cash for working for the EU system, would want Greatstone on the 30th of March. to remain in this dreadful and dying club. I know that our In between, we had Tony Bosworth from the Malling four married children (no longer children) and our nine Stamp Club visit us some of his 1919 -1946 collection, grandchildren will be far better off outside of the EU. which was very interesting. Note that my letter refers only to trade and does not If anyone would like to visit the club, they can contact me even mention the immigration chaos that surround us on 01797 320804, or just call into one of our meetings, and the whole of Europe and which the EU is frightened we are a small and very group of people. to deal with. Yours Sincerely Long live the Queen! Albert Terry Cllr Terry Mullard Dymchurch

30 PIECES OF SILVER Dear Looker, Of all the constituencies in the Country you would think that our local MP would be the first to want to vote to leave the E.U. but no Mr Collins thinks we should remain. Presumably if ‘Remain’ wins he will be receiving a nice promotion (along with Mrs May and various others who have talked the talk but then failed to walk the walk). He should remember that to be an MP you first need to have your supporters vote you in and I don’t know many people locally who vote Conservative and want to remain! I certainly won’t be able to bring myself to vote for him again at a general election, I would rather just not vote and I suspect many others will feel the same. T Raymond Hythe

Dear editor Romney Marsh Philatelic and Postcard Society had its first meeting of 2016 at the end of February and Richard

Page 17 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters The Old Forge in New Romney High Street, c.1905, where the Library is today. If you have any Marsh Memories that you would like to see published in The Looker please contact John Wimble telephone 01797 362295 or e-mail: [email protected]

Page 18 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Hythe Flower Club Hythe Flower Club held its March meeting at Hythe United Reformed Church on Monday, 7th March. Our Demonstrator was Jacqui Arnold and her title was 'Springwatch'. Jacqui delighted a full room for about an hour and a half with wonderful arrangements, from an Easter Bonnet to a Spring Basket and a beautiful Bridal Bouquet. She had some amazing containers, that matched the wonderful arrangements.

Our next meeting is a Club Night where members will be doing an Imposed Arrangement, we welcome visitors, who are welcome to come and watch us struggle with various materials that will be given to us to make an arrangement of them! If anyone is interested in maybe joining us, there is a charge, please ring our Chairman Anne on 263066 who will give you further information.

Page 19 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Firefighters at New Romney Firefighters will be rolling up their sleeves and have buckets Swap Hoses and sponges at the ready for a charity car wash at the For Sponges fire station on Saturday 19 March. They are inviting local residents to call in to the station in Church Road between 9.30am and 5pm for a car wash and make a donation to the Firefighter's Charity. Crews will also be promoting Kent Fire & Rescue's latest fire safety campaign, encouraging people to make time for their 'unsung heroes' - the smoke alarms in their homes - by testing them weekly. The National Car Wash is the Charity's largest national fundraising event of the year, when firefighters throughout the UK willingly wash the nation's cars in exchange for a donation. The event also gives firefighters the unique opportunity to interact with a large cross-section of their community and promote important Community Fire Safety initiatives. The two National Car Wash Days raised nearly £280,000 in March and September last year. This commendable total went directly towards helping fire and rescue community members in need of support, so don’t meet this opportunity to put a shine on your chassis for an excellent cause…

Page 20 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 The Transition Hythe project is Get launching the first of its monthly series of environmentally Trashed provocative films with the showing of ‘Trashed’ at the On Film United Reformed Church in East Street, Hythe at 7pm this evening (Wednesday, 16 March). The multi-award winning documentary narrated by Jeremy Irons, who is also the co-executive producer, takes a look at the world’s waste and how we deal with it. The beginning of the film has been compared with popular Pixar production WALL-E, but the differences between fiction and stark reality quickly become apparent. With a soundtrack by Oscar winner Vangelis of ‘Chariots of Fire’ fame and directed by Candida Brady, Irons takes us on a worldwide tour to look at the issues surrounding our wasteful culture. A 30-second trailer of the film can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UM73CEvwMY. There will be time after the film to discuss points raised in the film over refreshments. Entry on the evening costs just £3. The second in the series of environmental spectaculars will be ‘Food Inc’ on Wednesday 20th April, a powerful expose of the food supply industry that is so often hidden from sight. And the third date for your diary is Wednesday, 18th May when the film ‘Into Eternity’ looks at the issue of nuclear power. Further films will be announced for the third Wednesday of each month, but if you have any suggestions, contact Martin Whybrow at [email protected] or on 07787 124974. Additional information about Transition Hythe and its range of events aimed at building a more sustainable community can be found at www.transition-hythe.com.

Page 21 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters instrumental in the growth of Rotary Club ShelterBox, which started as a Rotary club’s adopted project, Joins Forces and is now the largest global Rotary project partner in the With New Panto 100-year history of the organisation. Fund Rotary International’s project partnership offers opportunities Shelterboxes to collaborate and combine Once again this year The Rotary resources. This greatly benefits Club of Romney Marsh arranged Shelterbox’s ability to provide for a recent performance of the emergency shelter and lifesaving Newchurch village pantomime supplies for families affected by ‘Alice through the Lookers Hut’ to disasters and be a special charity night. humanitarian crises. As a result, almost £1000 was Fundraising efforts of Rotary and raised for ‘Shelterboxes’ individual clubs go a great way to (www.shelterboxes.org) helping ShelterBox's aims. They This charity based in Cornwall often assist as a point of contact provides emergency shelter and in regions devastated by disaster, emergency supplies to any area providing logistical support and in the world beset by a disaster. It local information. is a charity regularly supported by If you would like to know more the local Rotary Club who have about the Rotary Club and how financed the purchase of over you could possibly help us with twenty boxes in the past ten our work in the community please years. They have gone to places contact our secretary Frank as far afield as Nepal, Haiti and Thrower, Bangladesh. ([email protected]) Rotary International has been

Page 22 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Every dog owner across Ministers hope the change in the law will help reunite Clamp Shepway will have to microchip owners with lost or stolen pets and relieve some of the their animal from 2016 under burden on animal charities and local authorities. Down On plans intended to cut a rise in Environment Secretary Owen Paterson told The Looker: strays. "It's ludicrous that in a nation of dog-lovers, thousands of Hot Dogs The microchips will be coded dogs are roaming the streets or stuck in kennels with owners' details; owners who because the owner cannot be tracked down." without do not comply could face fines of He added: "Microchipping is a simple solution that gives up to £500. peace of mind to owners. It makes it easier to get their Chips A legal loophole may also be pet back if it strays and easier to trace if it's stolen." closed, meaning owners could The change in the law will be effective from 6 April 2016. be prosecuted over an attack by their dog on private Any owner whose dog is found without a chip and can be land. traced by local authorities will have a short period of time The RSPCA welcomed the proposals, but said it doubted to have the dog microchipped. that they alone would "make owners more responsible or Laws governing dog attacks will also be extended to ensure fewer dogs bite people". cover private property, closing a loophole which has meant that dog owners whose animals have attacked people on private property are immune from prosecution. David Bowles, the RSPCA's head of public affairs, said: "Compulsory microchipping and extending the law to cover private property as well as public spaces is a welcome move. "However, on their own we don't believe they will make owners more responsible or ensure fewer dogs bite people or other animals." He said that the number of warnings issued to dog owners because of poor welfare last year had been up 12% on 2011, while in the last four years there had been Government figures reveal that more than 100,000 dogs a 26% rise in the number dog bites requiring are dumped or lost each year, at a cost of £57m to the hospitalisation. taxpayer and welfare charities.

Page 23 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters

Advertise in The You go down the Brookland Road… Looker from only Straight Over The Roundabout… £12.50 per week. Promote your business to thousands of our readers, for more information contact The Looker: 01797 364837

26 German school children where left stranded when the school bus they where travelling on had an accident. Although there was no serious injuries, paramedics and police were called with the bus left stranded in the middle of the traffic island until late at night, when a large recovery truck recovered the vehicle. Our Looker Group editor David Wimble was following the bus at the time of the accident and said: “The bus seemed to be travelling along the road at a steady speed, but I thought you’d better start breaking soon as the roundabout is coming up, I was surprised when they showed no sign of hitting the breaks and the first time I saw a break-light was when it was half way across the white stop line, the German lady driver was a bit shaken up and think may have bumped her head, but otherwise no one was badly hurt.” A spokesman for South East Coast Ambulance Service said: “A coach with 26 students and three adults on board had mounted the pavement. Three patients were checked over but no one had sustained any injuries.”

Page 24 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 St. Mary’s Bay Shingle Issue Residents in St Mary’s Bay have raised concerns about the build-up of shingle debris on the seafront between the village and the High Knocke Estate towards Dymchurch. A spokesman for the local community association in St Mary’s Bay believes a lack of maintenance following several years of severe weather has led to large areas of shingle building up to the same level as the walkway. The problem appears to be particularly noticeable at the beach causeway at the High Knocke end where stones been much more active in the past to keep on top of have completely blocked the beach steps and are these issues. spilling over onto the sea walkway. Seb Bishop of the Agency was keen to respond to these There are reports that a tractor had recently ploughed issues. “In the past we have cleared the prom around through the sea walkway and dumped overspill on top of Easter each year, when we are usually further out of the the existing pile already at sea wall level. The community stormy season and into more settled weather by this association is concerned that access for disabled and time”, he explained. “However, with increasingly elderly has been reduced in recent years. inclement weather patterns we have found more debris The association is also concerned that piles of sand has been deposited on the sea wall than in previous blown into the walkways will be attractive as dog toilets, years. areas that will be popular with children during the “The Environment Agency has limited resources at summer months. It believes the Environment Agency has present and is working on an important capital scheme to assist in rebuilding the current crest level along the frontage to help eradicate undermining of the sea wall from severe storm tides. With the recent poor weather conditions, this project has experienced delays and we have had to extend its working deadline,” he added. A site meeting between the Environment Agency and representatives of the community association is due to held soon to address the St Mary’s Bay’s shingle issue… The Looker is sure of one thing though – we are lucky to have some of the finest and most attractive beaches in Kent and as Easter approaches marking the beginning of the tourist season, we hope that all parties can come together (with the weather!) to make the summer of ’16 a memorable and profitable one for the Marsh and its coast

Page 25 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Grant Helps Reduce Social Isolation As reported in a previous Looker, Caring All together on Romney Marsh (CARM) was awarded a grant from the People’s Health Trust to support and increase social activities for older people within the community of Lydd and help to reduce social isolation which can affect older people. They are holding ‘a trip down memory lane’ performance for the older people of Lydd At Lydd Meeting Point, The Hardy Hall, Skinner Road, Lydd on 31st March at 10.30am till Mid - day Please come along, enjoy the show, have a cuppa and make some new friends This is a free event For more details contact CARM on; Phone: 01233 758122 email: office@carmrom - neymarsh.org.uk Website: www.carmromneymarsh.org.uk Registered charity no: 1067189

Page 26 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016

Page 27 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters In, Out, Shake It All About! A Response By Looker Senior Reporter Andrew South Following the pitch made by The Looker’s Great Leader in the last issue, I am pleased to present an alternative perspective on the forthcoming EU Referendum. With three months still to go, trenches have already been dug, mud muckily thrown and scaremongering scaring those in the middle who are headspinning at The In-Out Debate is even dividing political parties alarming rates. Whilst both sides will back by 50 years, (or maybe they beating heart of the world’s most use mindboggling masses of facts, do…). sophisticated, culturally-varied and figures, claims and counterclaims, it But we do have indisputable facts progressive continent in the 21st is easy to predict that the Outists will which overwhelmingly state the case century. still rigidly and unimaginatively stick to stay in the EU, albeit with its many The European Union is an ambitious, to their well-worn platitudes about faults and foibles:- three million jobs complex and progressive co- “standing on our own two feet”, rely on trade with the EU; cheaper operative of different countries, “going it alone”, “draining us of £55m prices in our shops because of the cultures, backgrounds and traditions a day”, “taking control of our own non-existence of trade tariffs; – well, what about that, just like our borders”, the content of which are 200,000 UK businesses trade with own indigenous club! We should largely meaningless and mostly EU countries creating jobs and celebrate those differences as that is without base. These are well- opportunities (this includes 61% of exactly what characterises our own meaning but naïve emotional our small businesses who trade with individuality as nations. responses to a general suspicion or the EU); the UK receives £66m of Quite frankly, I would rather be a ignorance of our foreign neighbours, investment every day from EU stayer than a quitter and see our which perhaps emanate from an countries; the European Arrest British bulldog mixing it with our innate shyness about the UK’s role Warrant makes it easier to arrest European colleagues than being a on the international stage. criminals across the EU; and poodle to a Trumped-up basket case As a nation with 64 million residents perhaps most significantly of all, for like the USA. (just 0.88% of the world’s every £1 we put into the EU, we get The Looker will feature a EU population), we don’t half punch almost £10 back through trade, jobs, edition in mid April where we would above our weight! The UK is the only investment and lower prices. None of like to feature some of your nation on the planet with a place in these figures are from some thoughts as our Group editor and the United Nations, the ‘faceless EU department’, but from senior reporter lock horns giving Commonwealth, NATO, the G7 either the UK’s own Office for their own opposing opinions. group of the world’s most successful National Statistics or Her Majesty’s We have also contacted our MP economies…and the European Revenue & Customs. So these are Damian Collins to enquire if he Union. We are truly unique! And I for the facts we know. would be prepared to take part in a one am immensely proud of the There will, of course, be other issues debate (ticket only) in a local influence which the UK’s own little such as government by unelected venue with a question time panel club of different countries, cultures, representatives (er, House of Lords and answer questions from the backgrounds and traditions has anyone?), immigration, trade, audience. brought to bear across the world. Brussels bureaucracy and the We will have more information on There are no facts or figures which amount of legislation emanating from this hopefully in the next edition. support any vision of what the UK the EU for the greater good of our One thing is certain though… The would look like detached from the continent which will be addressed in referendum in June could change continent it happens to be in – the coming weeks. None of these are the shape of Great Britain for always assuming that those who easy and cannot be dismissed by generations to come and we would relish an escape from the perceived ill-informed and fact-free rhetoric, but like to know your opinions. Contact clutches of Brussels bureaucracy more properly addressed by the UK The Looker: don’t actually want to turn the clock having a strong voice at the [email protected] Page 28 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Millie Speaks for Youth of Today Year 12 Brockhill student Millie Hoe was the nominated as the ‘Best Main Speaker’ in the District Level Rotary ‘Youth Speaks’ competition in Maidstone recently. She eloquently tackled the controversial topic (for her age group!) of the ‘anti-social dangers of social networking’. Shepway was represented at the district stage of this prestigious competition by Brockhill Performing Arts College as well as Folkestone Academy and Harvey Grammar School.

In the Intermediate section, Folkestone Academy came a close second to the winners, Claverham Community College and both will go through to the Regional Competition in Buckinghamshire on March 20th. Meanwhile, in the senior section, Brockhill and the Harvey Grammar School narrowly missed out on progressing further in the competition, but it was Millie who stole the show as the best individual performing debater. The Brockhill team had been encouraged and mentored by teachers Helen Eastham and Luke Haisell who were highly impressed by Millie’s performance. “The competition gives pupils some much-needed life skills and enhanced oratorical qualities. While Millie is a great team-player, she spoke individually with great passion about the negative aspects of social media. The students get an immense amount out of the project in terms of interactive and independency skills,” said Luke. Chair of Hythe Rotary Club Youth Committee, Collen Hill said: “It was a hugely enjoyable event – an immensely competitive but mutually supportive and extremely well organised by the various District Rotary clubs. In every way, the pupils taking part were great ambassadors for Shepway in an event that reflected great credit on all concerned.” In previous years, the Rotary Club has escorted Shepway’s successful debaters to the House of Parliament and the European Parliament in Brussels. This year, they plan to take our young talkers to the Law Courts in London as a ‘thank you’ for their efforts.

Page 29 Wednesday 16th March 2016 Because Local News Matters Every effort is made by The LOOKER newspaper to ‘Matt’ll Do Lydd Councillor Clive ensure that the information is correct. Goddard recently visited the The LOOKER newspaper reserves the right not to Nicely’ says towns Hardy Hall and publish unsolicited material being sent through to the noticed the kitchen was publication. Personal views expressed in this being refurbished, he publication are solely those of the respective Councillor quickly offered to help out contributors and do not reflect those of the publishers by offering to liaise with or its agents. The Looker is not responsible for Goddard Travis Perkins and ask for services provided by the advertisers. All material some paint to decorate and finish the job. Cllr Goddard supplied to this publication is at the owner’s risk. told The Looker: “This is great to see that a local Reproduction in whole or in part of this publication is company is helping a local community centre and strictly prohibited without prior consent. volunteers, cost is always an issue and I am pleased Photographic rights remain the property of The Travis Perkins have eased that pain” LOOKER newspaper and Marsh Media Limited. Contact THE LOOKER Office : 10 Mulberry Court, Grand Parade New Romney, Kent, TN28 8LZ Tel:01797- 364837 Mobile: 07900080656 Email:[email protected] Got a news story? call Senior News Reporter Andrew South Mob:07867 575200 Email:[email protected] Andy - Assistant Manager is happy to help The Looker had a field day coming up with headlines for To Advertise call Annabel this little news in brief, but amongst the contenders where… 01797- 364837 Lydd Councillor Full of Emulsion Over Volunteers Efforts New Romney & Littlestone and Clive Tries 50 Shades of Grey. Sainsbury’s, Bowls Club, Broadacre Hotel, Cinque Ports Arms, Smugglers Ale House, Speckled Hen, New Romney Day Centre, Spar, Back To School, Fish & Peri, Coach House Coffee Shop, Shaw Rabson, Colour Craft, Cherubs, The Ship, The Warren, The Plough, Marsh Academy, Marsh Insurance, Romney Tyre Service, Romney Marsh Brewery, Captain Howey, Curl Up and Dye, Rod & Line Fish & Chips, Littlestone Warren Golf Club, Sotirios, Lydd, Dungeness Post Office, Lade Stores, The Pilot, Dungeness Fish, Dungeness RNLI, Park Street Newsagents, Mace, Usher Motors, Londis, Spar, Lydd Vets, Lydd Butchers, Lydd Airport, Lydd Golf Club, Lydd Town 3 Eltham Palace 0 Marsh Villages Rose and Crown () Derek Linch, Growth Rings, A comfortable 3-0 victory against bottom side Eltham Garage, Royal Oak, (Brookland) Woolpack (Brookland), The Bell Palace saw the Marsh side record their fifth straight (Ivychurch) The Star (St Mary’s In The Marsh), St Marys Bay News victory. The home side were quickly in control and Agents, St Mary’s Bay Village Hall, The Bailiff Sergeant, The Levin Club, Colin Wood Engineering, San’s Café, Shepherd and Crook (), took the lead in the 15th minute when striker Gary Lathe Barn, Botolphs Bridge. Mickleborough netted. After this they created and Dymchurch missed several good chances but Gary netted a Tesco, The Ocean, Lazy Cow Printing, Smugglers Chest, Post Office, News Agents, The Village Café, Royal British Legion, City of London, second in the 44th minute and a minute later Sam The Ship. Lancaster added a third to give the Lydders a good Hythe Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, Railway Café, Sainsbury’s, lead at the break. Bank Street News, Ideas News Agents, Stade Street News, Stade The second half was not a great game to watch. Lydd Court, Hythe Bay Fish Restaurant, Hythe Swimming Pool, Waitrose, controlled the game against the strong wind and Hythe Imperial Hotel, The Kings Head, The Globe, The Swan, The Bell, The White Hart, The Butt Of Sherry, The Hope Inn, The Red Lion, looked the more dangerous side but couldn’t score Sandgate, any more goals. Sandgate News Agents, The Ship, The Providence, The Sandgate Society, Sandgate library, Sandgate Rowing Club, Saga. The Looker is also available online 48 hours before the print issue. East Kent College Res 1 New Romney Res 1 www.thelooker.co.uk The points were shared in this County League match. Page 30 www.thelooker.co.uk Wednesday 16th March 2016 Sam Allaway scored for the Marsh side. Oceans Eleven 7 Kingsnorth Pilgrims 0 Lydd Town 0 Town 3 The Dymchurch side were in fine goal scoring form Lydd took on Hawkinge Town in the semi final of the when Oceans Eleven put seven past Kingsnorth Weald of Kent Charity Cup and were never really in Pilgrims without conceding to move back up to second the match. The visitors, who are two divisions below in the Sunday League table. Ryan Lymn scored twice the home side, fully deserved their win. Two first half for the Marsh side to set them on their way, while Paul goals from Wes Ford and Mark Childs were added to Read, Ben Earle, Callum Ashton, Matt Lamb and by a second from Wes Ford and were more than Scott Farrell all scored one goal apiece in their 7-0 enough to see the visitors through to the final. win.

Appledore 4 Grasshoppers 1 Lydd Town 3 Lewisham Borough 1 Appledore beat nine-man Grasshoppers 4-1 to reach Another victory for the Lydders that sees them up to the semi-finals of the Sheber Trophy, where they will fifth in the Kent Invicta League. Sam Lancaster face Prince Albert in the last four. Brad Godden opened the scoring for the Marsh side in the 25th claimed the match ball with a brilliant individual minute and Gary Mickleborough doubled the lead ten performance that saw the former Wye striker score minutes later. Sam scored again in the second half to three times, while Rhys Hodges added a fourth for the secure the three points. Smugglers. Grasshoppers, who had two players red carded in the Bearsted Res 5 Lydd Town Res 6 final quarter of an hour, saw Shannon Hodson reply, Richard Weller’s hat-trick and two more by Joey but they go out and still search for their first away win Tibble helped Lydd Town Reserves win 6-5 at in all competitions since September. Bearsted Reserves in Division 1 East of the County League. Tom Morgans scored the other goal and Lydd Town 8 Kent Football Utd 1 Jason Batt scored a hat-trick for the Maidstone side in A good all round performance from the Lydders this high-scoring match. against Kent Football United saw them record their biggest win of the season. They started the game New Romney 3 APM Contrast Res 0 defending against the strong wind and fell behind in Billy Weir-Somerville scored twice for leaders New the 20th minute when the visiting forward Dominic Romney as they won 3-0 at home to APM Contrast Weston scored. Keeper Craig Smith then pulled of a Reserves. Substitute Adam Washford got the other quality save to keep Lydd in the game and from this goal. they began to dominate proceedings. Matt Collins, New Romney Sunday 2 Prince Albert 3 Ryan Norman, Richard Quigley and Carlum Macleod Ten man Prince Albert came back from going 2-0 were starting to link together well and from a quick behind to beat New Romney 3-2 after extra-time and counter attack Norman levelled. This was quickly reach the semi-finals of the Division Two Ashford followed by a Quigley goal and Norman added a third League Cup. New Romney went ahead thanks to to see the home side reach the break with a strikes from Joe Lehmann and John Simpson, helped commanding 3-1 lead. by an early red card to Albert skipper Rhys Pryor. The The second half was virtually one way traffic as the visitors levelled through Kirk Howard and Ryan Prior, visitors found it hard against the wind and as they before Danny Bell-Hughes grabbed the all-important tired, Lydd added further goals from Collins (2), winner to send the Division Two leaders into the Quigley, Philips and the returning Chris Clements to last-four and just two more wins away from securing see them seal the points with an emphatic victory. the clubs first ever cup win in their 55 year history.

Tudor Sports 2 Lydd Town Res 3 Grasshoppers 3 Lolzors 4 Bill Briffit’s extra-time winner earned Lydd Town Lolzors needed extra-time to get past Grasshoppers Reserves a 3-2 win over Premier Division Tudor in this Cup match before eventually running out 4-3 Sports in the quarter-final of the Bill Manklow Inter- winners at the Rype. Grasshoppers raced into a 2-0 Regional Challenge Cup. Last season’s Les Leckie lead thanks to goals from Shannon Hodson and Cup winners came from behind twice in normal time Charlie Barnard but Lolzors forced extra-time to level with Rhys Morison’s late penalty earning the extra half the scores at 2-2 through Jack Bundock and Dan hour. The game then looked set to be decided by Davies. Bundock added another in additional time penalties until substitute Briffit popped up with a before Matt Wright put them 4-2 ahead only for close-range header to win the tie. They now host Frankie Steer to pull one back for the ‘Hoppers’ late East Kent College in the semi-final. on.

Page 31 Stop Press....Stop Press...Stop Press...Stop Press In off the post Good news has arrived at The Looker office from Grant Speakall, postmaster at the Dymchurch Post Office which had been threatened with closure and relocation to the Premier Stores shop in the High Street. Grant has been informed by the Network Transformation team of Post Office Ltd. that the owner of the Stores had withdrawn his application to accommodate the Post Office into his store. The potential store relocation had been the subject of great concern in the village, firstly with the setting up of a Facebook petition which then led to a six-week consultation period. “I feel this is a win/win outcome for the people of “The Parish Council is delighted for Grant and his staff Dymchurch and the surrounding villages who will keep and customers. The excellent service provided at our the traditional Post Office they want,” said a delighted local post office was well worth fighting for,” she added. Grant. “But also for me and my staff who will keep their It seems that common sense has prevailed in the end, livelihoods, and for the Premier Stores which will avoid a as one of the key concerns was the access available for potential source of financial loss.” pedestrians and cyclists, and mobility scooters in Gill Smith, Parish Council Clerk was equally pleased with particular outside the potential new site, while the current this outcome. “Dymchurch would like to thank Office has plenty of space out front. parishioners who attended a public meeting in November The Post Office Ltd. has, however, stated that they will to discuss the matter, as well as those who have written now re-advertise the Office on the ‘run-a-post-office’ support and signed a petition to keep the post office at website, although it is unlikely any retailer will take on its current location,” said Gill. “It just goes to show what the service in the short term and the existing counter will can be achieved when people unite to support a worthy continue to provide the same service for the foreseeable cause. future.