Covering Hythe, Sandgate Issue 125 Free across the area Thursday 23rd July Looker Exclusive Be vigilant for boat traffickers on Shepway’s Coast

HMC Valiant © The Looker Shepway residents have been told to or 18,000 a year, mainly through ports many boats are being used by keep an eagle eye on our coastline like Dover, but trafficking gangs are people-traffickers, but there are calls from the threat of illegal immigrants also believed to be smuggling people coming in most nights to report entering our country on board boats in small private boats across the sightings of vessels that people operated by French trafficking gangs. Channel after Britain’s pool of Border believe may be worth investigating.” This follows reports of people on the Force patrol boats was reduced from She added, “That while it has always beach at Greatstone signalling with a five to one. gone on, it is getting more organised high powered torch to a boat near the With Romney Marsh the closest point as traffickers develop their techniques Mulberry Harbour, which was of land to the French coast, it is the and networks”. reported by Greatsone resident to the obvious place for trafficking gangs With thousands of people arriving in Border Force Agency. who use small boats and yachts to every month and immigrants The person who asked us not to land migrants in isolated spots on the looking for ways to reach the UK, publish their name said; “I was coastline. unscrupulous gangs are said to be walking the dog about 10 o’clock last The UK Border Force had a five operating ‘Channel dash for Cash’ week when I saw a person on the strong force of cutters to mount 24 operations. A member of the UK shoreline flashing a light at a boat hour patrols for vessels trafficking border operation told The Looker; about a mile out to sea. After a while illegal immigrants, drugs and other “We are aware of what is going on watching, I contacted Dover contraband. Two are out of action, and working with our French Coastguard, who put me in touch with while another two were last month counterparts to stop the illegal the Border Control Agency, who had a given to the EU-wide efforts against trafficking”. boat on the scene within about 20 trafficking in the Mediterranean, If you see anything suspicious you minutes”. leaving one on full-time duty. should call 999 and ask for the police The estimated total who evade border Lucy Moreton, general secretary of or call the Uk Border Force Agency security has gone from around 150 the Immigration Services Union, said; on : 0300 123 7000. per week last year to 350 per week, “There is no real indication of how 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Editor’sWord Every effort is made by The LOOKER newspaper to ensure that the information is By David Wimble correct. Thank you (as always) for picking up this copy of The Looker. The LOOKER newspaper reserves the right You will see that we have made a few changes with some not to publish unsolicited material being sent new added features, including our Announcements column through to the publication. Personal views and our Community News. We have decided to do this as it expressed in this publication are solely those is sometimes hard to determine what is an advert and what is news. Obviously the cost of running this paper is a very real of the respective contributors and do not one! So we have put this section in for community notices reflect those of the publishers or its agents. and have come up with an adjusted charge for this. Up until The Looker is not responsible for services now the paper has taken this cost ‘on the chin’ but with the provided by the advertisers. All material cost of paper and printing always going up we have decided supplied to this publication is at the owner’s to do it this way. I hope you like the idea and remember that risk. this will reach thousands of readers and we can also publish Reproduction in whole or in part of this this on our new website. We have started building our own website so that we can publication is strictly prohibited without prior make changes as we go. The old site had about 2,000 hits consent. per week but since we have all the local news feeds, traffic Photographic rights remain the property of and weather built into the site our web hits have gone The LOOKER newspaper and Marsh Media. through the roof! We have also started putting every back issue of The Looker on the site, so if you have missed them Contact: THE LOOKER: you can read back to issue 1. It is quite a task but we already 01797-364837. have the first year issue 1 – 26 online. This is the last issue of me acting as the sole editor, as Mobile: 07900-080656. shortly, Annabel Clare starts her full time position working Advertising: Jill Hernandez with us as a ‘Sub Editor’ and overseeing all the new features both in the paper and our online presence. 07921-267288. Enjoy the Sunshine. David Wimble E-mail: [email protected] Page 2 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015 Hair today, gone tomorrow ,A very brave young lady decided to try and help others by donating her golden locks to a worthy cause last week. Eight year old Lucy Greenwood from Littlestone amazed her mother when she decided that she wanted to donate some of her hair to the ‘Little Princess Trust’, a charity that has been running since 2006 and provides real hair wigs to boys and girls across the UK and Ireland that have sadly lost their own hair through cancer treatment.

Proud mum Katrina looks on as hairdresser Sue cuts Lucy’s golden locks for a superb cause after a brave battle, died in 2005. dedicated to providing specialist real At that time, finding high quality wigs hair children’s wigs. Like so many for children was very difficult and little Princesses, Hannah loved her only after a long search was a hair and losing it was very traumatic. suitable company eventually found Since its inception, the charity has which made a wig for Hannah. She now helped thousands of boys and very much enjoyed wearing her wig, girls. They work with suppliers particularly on special occasions. throughout the UK and Ireland, all of After Hannah passed away, so whom supply beautiful, real hair Lucy and her mum Katrina made many kind people offered help, wigs. If you would like to find out their way to Capelli’s Hair Salon in financial and practical. Hannah’s more about this amazing charity go New Romney High Street last Friday parents, Wendy and Simon decided to there website and into the hands of local hair that the most fitting way to use this www.littleprincesses.org.uk stylist Sue Richard-Williams who help was to launch a charity carefully platted the hair and then put hair bands around the top middle and bottom before taking the first cut. When our reporter asked her how she felt she said; “I’m very excited, it is to give another little girl some hair” Lucy who attends Greatsone Primary School said she hopes that other little girls follow in her footsteps as its such a worthy cause. The Little Princess Trust was launched in 2006 by the parents of Hannah Tarplee, along with help from friends and from Hannah’s school. Hannah was the original Little Princess. Sadly she was diagnosed with having a Wilms tumour and www.thelooker.co.uk Page 3 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Romney and Sea New Romney Cadets, there will also be a number of exciting new acts. Country Fayre These range from the Rockwood Dog Display Team to Clown Bluey comes of age and his Fire Engine to Big & Little Pony Power. Saturday 25th July Programmes are on sale in various shops in New Romney, Littlestone After nearly a year of planning, the and Dymchurch for just £1. 2015 New Romney Country Fayre is As well as providing details of the almost upon us. This year, the arena schedules, they also offer a largest free event on Romney Marsh ticket into the Lucky Programme comes of age, as it will be Prize Draw to win one of a range of celebrating its 21st birthday! exciting prizes, ranging from a celebration of the event’s 21st It’s not too late to get involved in the child’s bike to hampers and tickets birthday. Any interpretation of this is Fayre, which will take place on for days out and trips to local welcome – the wackier the better! Saturday 25th July on St Martin’s eateries. Trophies will be awarded in a variety Field and Fairfield Road Recreation Instead of bringing your car, why not of categories, including best large Ground. Although all 130 stalls let the train take the strain? New and small groups and best individual have been taken, there are still Romney Country Fayre has teamed fancy dress. opportunities to take part by up with the Romney, Hythe and Throughout the day there will be a participating in the parade. This will Dymchurch Railway who will be varied programme of entertainment start from the Marsh Academy running two Country Fayre Specials. in two arenas. Lower Car Park at 10.15 a.m. If you One will depart from Hythe at 9.15 Alongside wish to take part, please email a.m. and the other from Romney some of the [email protected] Sands from 9.30 a.m. with special traditional or alternatively turn up on the day by promotional fares. Both trains will favourites, 9.30 a.m. and speak to one of the arrive in New Romney in time for including X- parade marshals. Each year the visitors to watch the parade. Treme organising committee come up with For more information about the Falconry and a theme for the parade, and this Fayre, please visit the combined year’s is “key of the door” in www.newromneycountryfayre.co.uk bands of New

Page 4 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 5 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

organisation the person says they are from,’ he said. Elderly Hythe residents ‘The advice is, never let anyone into your home unless you are confident they are who they say they are.’ warned about burglaries Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 or Kent Police are warning residents to be vigilant and to check Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting the identification of all cold-callers following a reported reference ZY/18978/15. burglary in Hythe. A man is reported to have visited the home of an elderly woman in Shepherd’s Walk, Hythe, some time between 13th and 20th June and offered to trim a fir tree in her garden for £40. Investigating officer Detective Constable Rob Goodban said; “She agreed to this, albeit reluctantly. He then told her the tree was dying and needed removing completely, which he said he would do for another £260. Again, she reluctantly agreed, and he cut the tree down. After he had carried out the work we believe he followed her into her home and while she was writing him a cheque stole around £30 in cash from her purse.” The man was wearing a high-visibility jacket and was driving a van. He also had a Newcastle accent. He was carrying what police believe was a fake identity card. Detective Constable Goodban said; “Unfortunately we have no further description of the man so are particularly keen to hear from anyone else in the area who was also approached by him offering to carry out work.” He reminded people to always check the identification of callers to their home before they agreed to any work. ‘No legitimate salesman or caller at your door should ever mind doing this. If you have further concerns about the validity of the identification, call the company or

Page 6 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

cakes etc. Elvis alive and well in There will also be a raffle with prizes donated by the local business community. St. Mary’s Bay All the money raised from the ticket sales and raffle will go to Pilgrim’s Hospice in Ashford who do an absolutely An afternoon with Elvis is to be presented by Firmager wonderful job and is a Funeral Services. worthwhile cause. It is time for their (now annual) ‘Afternoon with Elvis’ I do hope you can join them – and Firmagers puts on this event for a number of it is usually a good fun event! reasons, mainly to provide a social occasion for those Come on ‘let Elvis entertain in the community, including some care home residents. you!’. It also gives them an opportunity to raise money for Tickets are £6 so please ring charity. 01797 369277, or call in to The event is to be held on Thursday 13th August at St. Firmagers, Owen House, Mary’s Bay Village Hall at 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Fairfield Road. New Romney Elvis will be singing, serenading you and ‘strutting his to purchase tickets. stuff’ as usual. We look forward to seeing They will be providing hot and cold drinks, nibbles and you!

customers from The Post Office in Newspaper Greatstone to Jackie’s News. As a company specialising in Home News deliveries still Delivery, we are firmly committed to offering local people an excellent available service both in terms of timely and accurate deliveries. We offer all Since Sunday 12th July the newspaper titles, both national and Jackie’s News of Tenterden newspapers that used to be local, and all magazines that are delivered by the Post Office in has a position available now available in shops. We actively help for a deliverer in Greatstone are now being delivered all our customers to get the by Jackie’s News from Tenterden. cheapest deal they can for Greatstone Some of our readers may already newspapers via publisher Salary £12,480 p/a know Jackie’s News as they started subscriptions and welcome delivering the papers in Littlestone enquiries in that area. We employ and New Romney last year, when local adults to deliver the papers and The Paper Shop there stopped currently we employ a total of 28 offering the service. people. Anyone local who is looking Guy Day, one of the Directors of for work in this field or would like to Jackies News told The Looker; “We have their paper delivered can are delighted to welcome all our new contact us on 01580 763183.”

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 7 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Dates for your Diary

Thursday 23rd July Meeting Point, Hardy Hall, 10 a.m. New Romney Meeting Point, Methodist Church Hall, 10 a.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 10.15 a.m. St Mary’s Bay Camera Club, Village Hall, 8 p.m. Street Dance Classes (age 2-7), Marsh Academy Tuesday 28th July Leisure Centre, 5.15 p.m. Coastal Meeting Point, St. Peter’s Hall, Greatstone, Heysham Hall Computer Club, Lydd-on-Sea, 7.30 p.m. 10 a.m. Coffee Morning & Bric a Brac, Heysham Hall, Friday 24th July Lydd-on-Sea, 10 a.m. Cuppa & Chat, Heysham Hall, Lydd-on-Sea, 10 a.m. Art Exhibition, St. Mary’s Bay Church, 10.30 a.m. Craft & Flower Display, St. Nicholas Church, New Dymchurch Art Society, Village Hall, 1 p.m. Romney, 10 a.m. Keep Fit/Dance Class, Chichester Memorial Hall, Whist & Scrabble afternoon, St. Peter’s Hall, Sandgate, 2 p.m. Greatstone, 2 p.m. New Romney Bridge Club, Old School, 2 - 5 p.m. Street Dance Classes (age 8+), Marsh Academy New Romney Craft Group, Old School, 7 p.m. Leisure Centre, 6.30 p.m. Cash Bingo, New Romney Bowls Club, 7.30 p.m. Wednesday 29th July St. Mary’s Bay Computer Club, Village Hall, 10 a.m. & Saturday 25th July 1.30 p.m. NEW ROMNEY COUNTRY FAYRE Art Exhibition, St. Mary’s Bay Church, 10.30 a.m. Craft & Flower Display, St. Nicholas Church, Purly Girlies for Knitters, Brooks Café, Hythe, 2 p.m. New Romney, 10 a.m. Greatstone Senior Singers Summer Show, Coffee Morning, Newchurch Church, 10.30 a.m. St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 2 p.m. Burmarsh Church BBQ, La Toppa, 7 p.m. Country Mice Needle Craft Club, Old School, New Romney, 7 p.m. Sunday 26th July Ballroom/Sequence/Line Dancing, St. Mary’s Bay Village Hall, 7 p.m.

Monday 27th July Crafters & Knitters, Hardy Hall, Lydd, 10 a.m. Dymchurch Meeting Point, Methodist Church, 10 a.m. Art Exhibition, St. Mary’s Bay Church, 10.30 a.m. New Romney 65 Club, Prescott House, Rolfe Lane, 2 p.m. New Romney History Society, Old School, 7.30 p.m.

Page 8 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

watched the procession set off from the Town Hall and it was led by the Royal Marines band with drums and Marsh Memories bugles. The procession included contingents of troops Compiled by John Wimble with fixed bayonets, mobile ambulances, the New Romney, Lydd, Dymchurch and Brenzett Fire Brigades and also a model lifeboat built by Mr. Rabson, the local Fund-raising on the Marsh butcher. The model was of the ‘Sandal Magna’, which was based at Littlestone in the 19th Century. Nigel in World War Two Rabson, Alistair Rabson, his brother Paul and Roy All around the country, communities were getting Barman formed the young crew. Accompanying the together to raise funds for the Second World War. One model lifeboat were four members of the Dungeness of these events was known as ‘Warship Week’ and was Lifeboat, Messrs. D., F., P. and J. Oiller. Also in the held in March 1942 to raise money to meet the cost of procession were local ARP units, Home Guards, Scouts providing a particular naval ship. The aim was that cities and Guides. would raise enough money to pay for the battleships and Taking the salute outside the Town Hall included the aircraft carriers, and towns for cruisers and destroyers. Mayor of New Romney, Alderman Charlie Cavey, the Small towns and villages Mayor of Lydd, Alderman were set a figure relative Tim Paine and the Vicar to their size, and would of New Romney, Rev. A. attempt to raise the H. Dolphin. The Beating required funds. The of the Retreat by the number of ships adopted drums and bugles was over 1,200, nearly provided a spectacular one million pounds was climax to the parade and raised, and the ships Alderman C. Cavey included battleships, presided at the meeting cruisers, destroyers and that followed. He said trawlers. A community that New Romney and would sponsor a ship District had a target for through individual savings in government bonds and their Warship Week and he was certain they would national savings certificates and the campaigns were exceed it. organised by the National War Savings Committee with HMS Romney was a Bangor class Minesweeper and the full support of the Admiralty. was launched in August 1940 and completed in Once enough money had been raised for the ship, the December 1941. She carried a complement of 60 local community would adopt the ship. Local officers and men and there were 32 ships in the class. organisations, women’s institutes, churches and schools She was the fifth to carry the name of a coastal town and would also provide additional comforts for the crews of was one of the first ships at the Normandy D-Day the ship they had adopted. This was usually in the form Landings in June 1944. HMS Romney was sold in 1950 of woollen socks, gloves and balaclavas. Children would and broken up later the same year. often write letters and send cards to the crew. When At the same time, Lydd exceeded its target of raising possible, officers and men from the adopted ship would £6,000 towards the cost of a tank. New Romney, visit the local community, and to celebrate their visit, Dymchurch and Lydd Women’s Voluntary Services also there would often be a parade. did their bit for the war effort with nearly 150 knitted The ‘New Romney and District Warship Week’ was items for the Army, Navy and Italian prisoners of war. organised with the aim of raising £28,500 in order to Other fund-raising events included dances in most ‘adopt’ the minesweeper HMS Romney. A procession Marsh towns and villages, with the locals and the troops was held through the High Street and later there was a all joining in. These events certainly lifted morale during public meeting in the Church Hall. A large crowd the dark days of war.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 9 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

believe that by setting up this Lydd Town Forum, Lydd Town Council will be able to facilitate the Council to opportunity for a proper dialogue to take place between instigate the residents and representatives from the Highways Police, Kent County Council and other relevant agencies, Forum so that the problems can be aired and we can work towards At the meeting of Lydd Town finding some solutions to Council Planning Committee alleviate the current held on Monday 6th July, it disruptions”. was unanimously agreed to It was agreed that the form a Highways Forum to look Highways Forum will comprise into the issues that the of Councillors Clive Goddard, residents of Robin Hood Lane Martin Sweeney and Fred report they are experiencing Wood-Brignall along with two with lorries using the road representatives of Robin Hood outside their homes. Lane, Alastair Paterson and Mike Wilkinson, who will bring the resident’s concerns to the table and feed back to their neighbours after the meetings. The first meeting will be held to identify the specific issues so that the way forward can be mapped out. Following that, representatives of the key stakeholders will be invited to attend relevant meetings so that the Forum is able to target Cllr Goddard wants to start the specific issues in a with sorting out problems at productive way. Robin Hood Lane Whilst the Forum can be Councillor Clive Goddard, widened at a later date to Chairman of the Planning and address other Highways issues Environment Committee said; that may arise in the Parish of “I am keen to find the most Lydd, the focus and priority for effective way forward and now will be Robin Hood Lane.

Page 10 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 11 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Silver City. Silver City Reunion If you had any connection with either By John Wimble as an employee or a passenger, please would you go through your attics or files and see if you have any Today, Lydd’s Airport proud history is remembered in items which you would be prepared to donate to the many ways, from original drawings and illustrations of Silver City collection which is held at the B.A. Heritage old aircraft on display to autographs and brief Centre for safe-keeping. The people at the B.A. messages written by aircrew, passengers and staff Heritage Centre are amazed by the number of items captured and shown for posterity. The Silver City they have already in their collection but every year Airways Association – made up of former staff and someone produces an item that they haven't seen those with an interest in Lydd’s aviation heritage – is a before. They have many albums of photographs which thriving body and stages a well-attended reunion at are taken along to their Annual Reunion which is held at Lydd each year. and you may have one which is new to them. Please ring Mrs. Sally Maycock, Secretary of the Silver City Airways Association if you do have any items. Full membership is restricted to ex-Silver City employees and employees of other associated companies. They also have Associate Membership for people who, although they haven’t worked for Silver City, have a genuine interest in the Car Ferry Industry. Membership is a one off payment of £10 which entitles them to attend the reunion and to receive the annual Left to right, Wyndham Powell, Keith Dagwell, Sally Newsletter. Maycock and Paul Ross. For more details, please contact Mrs Sally Maycock, 14 Prescott House, Rolfe Lane, New Romney TN28 8JR. The name originated in Australia in 1946 when an Phone 01797-366346 or 07941-008311. Australian Mining Group formed its own aviation company with a fleet of Dakota aircraft. The name was chosen because the mining company’s interests were concentrated at Broken Hill, the ‘Silver City’ of New South Wales, so called because of its once rich silver deposits. Silver City Airways was registered in 1946 with a fleet of Lancastrians and Douglas Dakotas and its first flights were from Heathrow Airport to Sydney and the round trip via Johannesburg with refuelling stops en route took 14 days. The local company was originally based at Airport in 1948 and moved to Lydd in 1954 (which was commonly known as Ferryfield). This year’s Silver City Reunion was held on Saturday 11th July, when over 60 ex-employees and friends of the Association were present to chat about old times and renew friendships. The Association aims to keep alive the spirit of Silver City that was so evident during the company’s halcyon days and has a membership of over 200 ex-Silver City employees and employees of other associated companies. Keith Dagwell the President, and Paul Ross the Chairman, were on hand to greet the guests and Sally Maycock the Secretary was very busy in charge of the raffle that was held to raise funds for the Association. Also in attendance this year was Wyndham Powell, son of ‘Taffy’ Powell who started the company. After a very enjoyable buffet and reminiscing with old friends, Paul thanked everyone for attending and also welcomed old and new friends. Wyndham also spoke to the guests about the early days of Broken Hill and

Page 12 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

rounders, speedway and football. Romney Marsh The action packed evening was a resounding success and the Beavers District Beavers voted unanimously to include an Annual Teddy Bears Picnic in the Teddy Bear’s beaver programme for next year. The event was the brainchild of Picnic Leah-Ann Mooney of the 1st New Romney Beaver group. She stated it If you go down to the woods today had been a lot of hard work to co- you may have spotted several ordinate the evening but the smiles children in blue sweatshirts clutching on the faces of the eager Beavers teddy bears. Yes – it was the first made it all worthwhile!! Teddy Bear’s Picnic for the Romney Beaver groups across the Romney Marsh District Beavers. Over 40 Marsh are currently recruiting for the Teddy Bears from Lydd, Dymchurch Scouting Adventure for the coming and New Romney met up in the year. If your child is aged 5½ or over woods for a games evening and a please contact your local group or District Picnic, accompanied by their visit the website of the 1st New Beaver owners!! Romney Scout Group and we will The games included hoopla, kick point you in the right direction.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 13 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Page 14 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 15 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Business Preview Trimmings Hair & Beauty salon In this weeks business review we go over to Haguelands Farm and visited Faye Trimmings. Faye has been a hairdresser on the Marsh for nearly 15 years, but took the decision just over three years ago to open her own salon at Haguelands Farm near Dymchurch. At first, not knowing how the business would take off, she opened a small salon which was ideal for her, although it soon became apparent that she was out growing the space very quickly. After 12 months she moved to a slightly larger unit and took on more staff. Her sister Rebecca joined her to also offer other beauty related services and again it soon became apparent that the building would not be big enough. Luckily the unit next door became available and so Faye took the big step of doubling the size of the salon, taking on even more staff. “Dream Team Trimmings Hair and Beauty” Rebecca, Faye, Coral, Paige and Sammy She told The Looker; “It really has been a rollercoaster ride, from making the big step of taking on a monthly rent and paying bills, so I had to make it work. I had many sleepless nights wondering if the customers would come. It’s a big Kevin Saunders having his roots change from being touched up a solo home visit hairdresser or working for someone else, but I am pleased I took the gamble and sometimes cannot believe how the business has grown. We are so pleased with the outcome of the salon and I feel very proud. I would really like to say a massive thank you to Sammy Banks being treated by Rebecca Wilmott

Page 16 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

all our loyal clientele for perservering with us throughout the extension to the salon, without you this would not have been possible. So thank you so much.” Trimmings has now got a bespoke Beauty Room with everything from facials and massages right the way through to a ‘Spray Tan’ booth. So they now offer a full range of salon services. Earlier this year Jess Edwards, one of Faye’s team, won the nationally acclaimed ‘best junior apprentice’ from the hair academy, along with Sammy Banks and Coral Sullivan, they offer a very exciting future to the salon with new fresh ideas which run along side the traditional hair and beauty services. Faye said; “I really am very lucky to have such a talented team. The girls all work so well together and with over 180 regular customers we all work very hard, which is why we have Paige Ridgers, a fantastic stylist. Between us, we are getting to the point that we don’t have much spare time, which is nice and makes the days go very quickly.” One of the other things that the salon has introduced includes ‘Princess Pamper Parties’ where young ladies can have their hair and “Dream Team Trimmings Hair and Beauty” Rebecca, Faye, Coral, Paige and Sammy makeup done and enjoy soft drinks and cup cakes. Rebecca said; “Now we are offering Dermalogica products that are not only available in the salon treatment room, but also available to buy and take home.The salon really does offer the full make over experience and if you want to treat a friend they offer a wide range of gift vouchers”. Faye said; “One of the best thing’s about the expansion was getting the work done by some good friends and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bill Briffit for all the fixtures and fittings, Justin Philpot from Channel Signs, Craig Cox Carpentry, Ryan Lill Tiling, Bradley Bennett, L&B Electrical and most of all my mum and dad for all the ongoing love and support”.

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 17 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Dear Looker, LOOKER I would like to strongly recommend the Rose & Crown in Old Romney as a worthy addition to the list of local LETTERS eateries. My husband and I regularly dine in this lovely, typically Hello David, English country pub/restaurant and always receive Can I respond to a letter in The Looker 25th June a warm welcome. written by a Mr R Mulligan. Can I make it absolutely I think we have sampled almost all of the meals on the clear that I did NOT throw in the towel as he has varied menu from lunches to 3 course dinners, and suggested when I was County Member. I was dealing without exception all have been expertly prepared by with this issue up until I resigned. Unfortunately the resident chef David, ( a highly talented and creative because of Mr Mulligan’s very rude emails that he used chef). to send to me, I chose not to reply to them. Everyone is warmly welcomed and made to feel 'at However, I was corresponding with a gentleman Mr home' by Michael, the licensee, which is probably the Paterson over this issue up until my resignation. reason why so many people return again and again. My plans put forward to alleviate Brett's lorries running So, if you haven’t been there yet - - why not sample the through with Lydd with aggregate from Dungeness to excellent food and comfortable atmosphere sometime Camber were rejected by the environment Agency and very soon. the KCC. Kind Regards, Kind regards, Lynne Sheppard. David Baker. Dear Looker, Dear Looker, You ask, 'What do you think the answer is to Operation Please find attached a letter sent to Rt. Hon Amber Stack?' Well providing a whole load of lorry parks in Rudd regarding Dungeness C. Kent is most certainly not the answer, in fact it has the At the meeting of Lydd Town Council held on 6th July, a makings of a horror film. proposal by Councillor Clive Goddard that a letter be written to Amber Rudd MP. Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change was seconded by Councillor Len Laws and was met with unanimous support from fellow Councillors. Councillor Goddard said, “ I would like Lydd Town Council to keep the pressure on and send a letter to Amber Rudd saying that we want and support Dungeness C being built”. The letter stresses that it is vitally important for the long term future of Lydd, Romney Marsh, Shepway and Kent that the nuclear power industry continues here. Lydd Town Council believes that the realisation of Dungeness C will create a catalyst for economic regeneration, attract investors, provide a setting to improve the local infrastructure and ensure that there are much needed jobs enabling young people to remain in the Parish to live and work. Councillor Goddard added, “We need confirmation that Dungeness C is being kept on the and will be considered as part of the new build programme as hundreds of jobs would be created in the construction and day to day running of the Power Station”. Sent on behalf of Lydd Town Council.

Page 18 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

These lorries need dispersing as quickly as possible to speak highly enough of my care during my stay. lorry parks in other counties on route to their The surgeon, doctors, nurses, physios and all the team destination. did their best to get me mobile again. My thanks go to After all, they travel all over our island so as they come all these wonderful people. off the ferries so get them as far on their way as driving Where would we be without them. hours allow. Stop them getting on the ferries in Regards, unless they have sufficient driving time left to CLEAR Jenny Sims. Kent! On the return journey they can use the same lorry parks Dear Looker, and obtain clearance from Dover before they actually I was surprised to hear that neither of New Romney travel down the Kent motorways. I find it hard to believe District councillors have set up surgeries. How are we, that anyone is suggesting housing the whole lot under the members of the public, supposed to contact them? Kent skies. I have sent an e-mail to both councillors via the SDC Kent already suffers the pollution from these vehicles website from the computer at New Romney Library as they travel through. If lorries are parked up, shunted (with the help of a very nice lady, may I add) and round, shifted here there and everywhere no-one will be neither of them have got back to me! able to breathe Kent air and live. So I sent a follow up e-mail, having set up my own So, minimise the damage. Lets have a succession of e-mail account. Lorry Parks between Kent borders and , then, I have since written to Cllr Simmons, who despite when the French yet again hold us to ransom we sending a stamped address envelope has not replied. already have a system in place and stop the lorries So I found his telephone number on the website, from county to county. surprise, surprise and when it was answered after four Let everyone pay their share, provide facilities, make attempts to get through, he put the phone down on me. money out of the French blockade and help the people So I thought in case anyone else is having trouble of Kent in doing so. getting hold of the town’s locally elected councillors, I As for foreign lorries in our lay-bys, they are actually would make life a little easier and print out their contact preventing the tax paying British public from using the information. lay-bys. We find it too intimidating to try and stop, even My grandson tells me that our other new councillor has for a few minutes, in a Kent lay-by surrounded by huge stated that she will be holding an online surgery, via lorries and burly lorry drivers who are shouting, facebook. swearing and emptying excrement where it suits them. Firstly, I and a lot of other residents do not posses a Then, to top it all, we help pay the clean up bill! computer and certainly do not know how to use this Why are we not using Swiss style motorway passes for Facebook thing! We would have to go to the Library to all lorry owners who do not pay British road tax. use their computers again and it would be a long drawn Insist they pay up, we all do in Europe. Knowing how many lorries flow through Kent we could provide decent roads if we were not such a lot of give- away do-gooders! Kind regards Pat C.

Dear Looker, Hip Hooray. Through your paper I would like to make a comment about my stay recently at The William Harvey Hospital as we only ever hear bad comments and not the good. I spent fivedays in the orthopaedic ward and cannot

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 19 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk out process. What is wrong with the old fashioned way of Romney Marsh meeting someone face to face? Why can’t they do what was formally available Flower Arrangers when you wanted to see your MP or Councillor? You went to the Town Hall and met up with him At the Kent County Show in July, face to face. Or you went to the one stop shop Romney Marsh entered the or the library knowing that you could actually interclub competition entitled speak to them and show them your problem, ‘Country Ways’. Anne and Gill which in my case involves showing plans (which created an eye catching design is very hard to do on the interweb)! which earned them First Prize and I have since been to the council office and they also received the Lady spoken to a nice man from the planning Falmouth Trophy. Well Done! department who has helped me. Mary and Anne individually entered Begging the question, why do we need these another class entitled ‘At the people if they are not available to us? Bottom of the Garden’. Mary gained For your readers information, New Romney 2nd Prize but Anne was on top form Councillors at Shepway (who appear to almost as she won 1st Prize and was also be neighbours) are awarded the Tim Day Trophy for Ms Susie Govett, mobile: 07870-445704, Best in Show by an individual email: [email protected] competitor. Mr Peter Simmons, phone: 01797-367367, Our next meeting is on Monday email: [email protected] 10th August at 7.30 p.m. in St. Yours truly, Mary’s Bay Village Hall and is a C. A. Green. workshop on Miniature Designs, when we will learn how to make a To be published shortly. very small arrangement within a 10cm square. “Romney Marsh from the Air” Visitors will be most welcome. For more information about the Over 100 photos. club please phone Cecilia on Contact John, 01797-362295 for details. 01303 249582.

Page 20 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

world’s media. Leader of Shepway District Council Electric plane takes to David Monk told The Looker; “This really is a historic day, not only for aviation, but also for Lydd. The airport the skies above Lydd is proving to prove detractors wrong and is starting to make a real impact. With the new Air Sea Rescue unit in historic Channel being based here and with the new hanger under construction, there is a real feeling that big things are crossing ahead for the airport”. Several local people attended the event including some Louise Bleriot first crossed the Channel in a powered who live right in the flight line of the airport. Brian Beard plane in 1909 to win the £1,000 prize in a said; “This really is a big day in the history of aviation, time of 46 minutes. Jump forward 106 years and silent flight has got to be better for everyone”. another record breaking Channel crossing took place, this time from Lydd to Calais, when last week the new Airbus E Fan took off and crossed the Channel in a time of just under 35 minutes. However the flight, which was meant to be a first, was upstaged just 12 hours earlier when a French pilot in a tiny one-seater plane, supposedly beat aviation giant Airbus in the race to fly an electric-powered plane across the ,

pipping them to the post by a matter of hours. In a fashion very similar to those magnificent men in their flying machines and a throw back to the early days of aviation, Hugues Duval flew from Calais, France to England and back in a Cri Cri plane on Thursday night, hours before Airbus’ planned flight of the E-Fan 2.0 prototype in the opposite direction, stealing the thunder from the mighty multi national company. A spokesman at Lydd commented to The Looker; “It seems that yes we have been beaten to the record by Hugues. However, we are taking the first step in what will be a major development plan to introduce electric flight to commercial aviation, and whilst it would have been nice to claim to have crossed the Channel first, we take these things in our stride, and look at the bigger picture”. After The Looker publicised the Clive Goddard, David Monk & Mayor Tom Dawes event, over 200 people attended the airport to witness the take off of the new generation plane, which Airbus see as the first step in fully fledged electric commercial flight within the next 25 years. Local dignitaries attended the event along with the

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 21 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Page 22 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

broadwalk and look out over the Marsh from the Art Shack to showcase restored Lookers hide. The reserve’s Visitor Centre, an award winning eco- local artists friendly building, will be open seven days a week between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Local art group, hART, will be taking up residence at the Light refreshments are served in the café and Romney Marsh Nature Reserve during the weekends knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to talk about the for the whole of August. They will be looking for creative reserve and the Marsh. There is a gift shop with local inspiration on the 11-acre site with its fascinating mixed crafts, cards, wildlife information and maps on sale, and wet and grassland habitat and its colourful wildlife. locally sourced plants produce and preserves are Visitors can see hARTists at work, talk to them about always available. hARTists will be in and around the Art Shack from Thursday to Sunday every August weekend. Visit www.hARTists.co.uk to find out the most up to date information.

Visitor Centre plays host to local artists what they are doing and also visit an exhibition of ceramics, paintings, illustrations, collages and prints by the group’s 12 members in the reserve’s gallery known as the Art Shack. The Romney Marsh unique landscape has been an inspiration over the centuries to artists and poets alike. John Betjeman wrote that the sky ‘is always three quarters of the landscape’ and that ‘the sea has given a colour to this district. It is spotted with silver oak posts and rails. It gives the grass and the rushes a grey salty look and turns the red bricks and tiles of some local churches and buildings ‘a saffron yellow’. His friend, painter John Piper captures much of this description in the series of paintings he made before the Second World War of the historic Marsh churches. hARTists will be developing their own individual interpretations when they explore the sights along the

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 23 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Page 24 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

there are regularly taken shopping by Frazer’s good their key workers to help develop their living skills, including budgeting. deed Joan-Ann said, “When he is at home, A shopper at Sainsbury’s in New Frazer is often to be found in our Romney had reason to be very garden – he’s really quite green- grateful to public spirited local man, fingered - and we similarly support Frazer Emsden, recently. our other service users to ensure Frazer - who has learning difficulties they are all able to pursue their own - was with his key worker, Lisa particular interests.” Perrins, waiting for the arrival of Other ways in which the service some of the other people he lives users are helped to live life to the full with at Regard’s Chinook service in include support with volunteering Lydd, when he spotted the shopper work, and producing baked goods for accidentally drop his wallet. everyone at the service to enjoy Public-spirited Frazer told Lisa what together. he’d seen and then ran across to a speech impediment and is quite a There is currently one vacancy at scoop up the wallet and return it to shy person, which makes his very this seven-bedroom service. All the its owner. kind and helpful reaction all the more tenants have access to 24hr staffing Lisa said; “No-one else had noticed admirable. We are so proud of him.” support and are supported at an what happened, but Frazer was In recognition of his action Joan-Ann appropriate level to live as quick off the mark and very keen to created a laminated ‘Certificate of independently as possible in all make sure the gentleman got his Good Deed Award for Services to the areas of their life. wallet back. General Public’ for Frazer, which she Regard is the fourth largest private “The man was really happy and presented to him in front of all her care-provider in the country. thanked Frazer so much for his good staff and tenants. Further details are available from deed.” Frazer, who is 47, has lived at Joan-Ann on 01797-322259 or visit Joan-Ann Dartnell, service manager Chinook - a supported living service - the website at at Chinook in Lydd, said; “Frazer has since 1999. The individuals who live www.regard.co.uk/services/chinook

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 25 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk Three Emergency Services hold Mud Rescue Exercise Two fire appliances, five coastguard units and the crew from Littlestone Lifeboat station all took part in a dramatic mud rescue at Littlestone exercise on Thursday evening. The training scenario had a group of people Mud is one of the many beach hazards! stuck up to their waists in team, one senior fire officer said that the exercise had mud. been ‘invaluable’. With the crew of With appliances from Herne Bay, Folkestone, New Littlestone Lifeboat Romney, Dymchurch and Lydd along with Coastguard station acting as some of units from across the district, the exercise was deemed the casualties, teams set a success, with the scenario which could happen at any Dave Kimber trys a mudpack about inflating rafts time with the state of the beach at the moment. All the which the teams used to move stretchers and the teams involved however seemed to have a good time, teams to reach the stricken crew. seeing some of their colleagues covered from head to With the Coastguard setting up a winch to help drag the toe in slimy, smelly, mud and sand. casualties back up the beach, a special 8 wheel beach buggy from Kent Fire and Rescue based in Herne Bay made up the full scale exercise. With all emergency services having to work together as a single

Page 26 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015 It’s Fete Accompli - Cheers! A locally brewed real ale, especially created to support this year’s Hythe Venetian Fete, is to be officially tasted by town dignitaries before it goes on sale in pubs across south east Kent. Brand-named Fete Accompli, and made from a secret recipe by Daryl Stanford of the Hopfuzz Brewery, West Hythe, the new brew will be ceremonially launched at the Potting Shed real ale bar in Hythe High Street, on Monday July 27th. Official tasters will be Town Mayor Cllr Michael , John Schoner, Chairman of the Venetian Fete Society, and Bob Martin, Chairman of Kent Campaign for Real Ale. Fete Vice-Chairman Ken Crowe said that thousands of especially-designed Fete Accompli beer mats would be distributed in coming weeks. They will be displayed on pub counters in Shepway and further afield and they will not only give Hythe’s fantastic water carnival a tremendous boost but also raise awareness of Hopfuzz Brewery. It started only four years ago and is now producing a range of house and specialty beers made from natural products. The idea of the joint promotion came from Potting Shed owner Peter Dorman, and Hopfuzz master brewer Daryl Stanford has responded brilliantly by creating Fete Accompli. The Venetian Fete, organised by the not-for-profit Hythe Venetian Fete Society, takes place on Wednesday August 19th. For ticket information and prices, seating plan, parking arrangements and latest programme news, etc, visit www.hythe-venetianfete.com

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 27 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

The campaign is part of the RNLI’s efforts to halve the Lifeboat crews number of coastal deaths by 2024. It is warning everyone but particularly adult men – who warn of ‘Beach Risk’ are shown to be more prone to getting into danger – to be aware. Two RNLI Lifeboat stations in our district are gearing up Guy Addington, the RNLI’s community Incident for what is expected to be a busy summer and have Reduction manager for the South East said; “Most launched a ‘Respect the Water’ campaign warning people heading for a stroll or run along the coastline people about dangers of the water around Kent probably wouldn’t consider a drowning prevention coastline. campaign like this relevant to them as they have no It comes as the lifeboat service revealed 22 people died plans at all to enter the water. We’re warning people in coastal areas around the South East last year with that if they’re going near the water, whatever their over a third of those people not intending to enter the activity, they could be at risk and they need to take water. care. Charlie Davis, the Lifeboat Unexpected dangers like slippery steps at Dymchurch, Operations Manager for the sudden waves or unstable ground can catch anyone Littlestone Lifeboat Station said; out.” “It’s a recurring theme year on The water is very unpredictable itself and the RNLI is year, the sun comes out and making people aware of the risks attached to cold water people let go of their common and rip currents – which are strong currents that can sense. For us, the worst possible drag people out of their depths very quickly. thing is when we have an The sea is around 12C and cold water shock which offshore breeze and people go causes uncomfortable gasping and numbs the limbs to sea in inflatables. I would like can set in at 15C or below. to plead with parents not to let Charlie Davis ‘hot any child go out to sea in one weather brings the unless it is attached to a long stupidity out in people’ piece of rope with someone on the shore holding it! People think they are strong swimmers but with wind and tide against you, it’s a recipe for disaster” The institution has two hard-hitting films which are being released as part of the campaign and will be shown in cinemas throughout the UK from this week. One shows how conditions in the water can change extremely quickly, overwhelming someone if they are in Littlestone lifeboat Fred Clarke geared up for a busy the water. The second is a breath test video which asks summer viewers to hold their breath demonstrating the effects of cold water shock. Mr Addington added: “Currents under the surface can There have been 134 deaths in the water over the past overwhelm even the strongest swimmers. They drag five years and 33% of victims were taking part in people out of their depth so quickly, and if you try to activities such as walking, running, climbing and swim against them you’ll become exhausted. We want boating, which the RNLI says means they were not people to enjoy the water but to make sure they respect likely to be entering the water. it. On average, 27 lives are lost around the south east Romney Marsh beach is one of the places the RNLI coast each year but many of these losses could be has its eye on during its ‘Respect the Water’ campaign avoided if people acknowledge the dangers and follow along with Camber Sands. some basic safety advice.”

Page 28 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015

Births Community Notices

Birthday’s

To the Residents of Romney Marsh - Your help is required! The local Air Training Corps., based in St. Mary’s Bay, is in urgent need of a committee to help support the young adults who belong to 2513 Squadron Air Training Corps. The Squadron covers an area from Hythe to Lydd and out to Hamstreet and towns and villages in between. The aim of the committee is to support the adult leaders and suggest ways of and to help raising funds which are used to keep the Squadron’s transport running (off the road at the moment), supporting their renowned pipe band and general running costs which aren’t covered by the RAF i.e., annual camp, outings and general welfare. If you have any spare time (two hours, two or three times a year) and believe you can help please contact me. Yours sincerely Bruce Barry Email:[email protected] Tel:01797 343201

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 29 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

Brookland v Benenden Benenden won by 10 wickets A comprehensive victory for the visitors in this league match. Brookland were all out for 88 after 18 overs with Jack Meadows top scoring with 31. Ladies Golf Benenden knocked the winning runs off in the tenth Twenty-seven ladies took part in this competition on over without losing a wicket. Saturday 4th July. In a high scoring individual Hythe Cricket Week in the Isle of Wight Stableford competition there were four people Ventnor v Hythe on the same points in Ventnor won by 5 runs second place that had Ventnor batted first and made 154 with Stephen to be decided on Fletcher taking 3-9. countback. Hythe only managed 149 with A. Keeling top- In third place on cb scoring with 61. was Toni Ovenden, second place was Brading v Lydd Janice Wickens. Lydd won by 10 wickets However the outright winner on 40 points A convincing win for the touring side. The home was the Ladies Vice team made 169 with Adam Lindsey taking 3-11. Captain Kate Dilks, The Lydd openers were unbeaten with Adam seen here receiving Lindsey finishing on 83 not out and D. Lindsey on the Captain's Salver from Lady Captain Barbara Down. 70 not out.

Porchfield v Lydd Cricket Lydd won by 4 wickets Hythe Green v Lydd Another good win for the ‘tourists’. Porchfield Hythe Green won by 33 runs batted first and made 167 off 33 overs. This friendly game saw a win for the home side. Lydd managed to reach their total for the loss of six They batted first and made 189-5 after 40 overs. wickets. L. Unwin made 49 and Stephen Fletcher For Lydd, Alec Lindsey took 2-16. 46. When Lydd batted, they were all out for 156 in the 31st over. Darren Wolfe made 30, Adam Lindsey 28 and A. Keeling 27.

Leybourne v Dymchurch Leybourne won by 2 wickets Dymchurch batted first in this league match and made 224-9 after 40 overs, thanks to a magnificent 141 from captain Matthew Ford. However, it wasn’t enough as the home side managed 226-8 after 37 overs. For the visitors, Gary Cox took 6-38 in nine overs.

New Romney v Lydd Lydd won by 7 wickets A low scoring friendly game between local rivals saw New Romney reach 94-7 after 38 overs. Lance Grist top scored with 46 not out. The visitors reached the target after 21 overs for the loss of three wickets. Stephen Fletcher made 35 not out. Page 30 www.thelooker.co.uk Because local news matters 23rd July 2015 Arthur holds his own at the IMG Academy Junior World Golf Championships Five-year-old Arthur Saunders put in a solid effort in the Junior World Golf Championships in San Diego, California. Building in confidence over the three rounds and shooting a credible 66 shots on his first round, despite having two hiccups on the par 3 third and fourth hole, Arthur getting in some practice shots at Littlestone taking 14 shots and dropping down the leaderboard, he the Littlestone Golf Club, has surely surpassed did himself proud with two eagles on 12th and 17th. expectations and especially for his first international In the second round he had a ‘lacklustre’ round with 70 competition with 1,200 competitors from more than 50 shots, but by the third countries, playing in over 12 categories. round he found good Before the trip, Kevin, Arthur’s father told The Looker; steady form with a very “I just hope the pressure does not get to him. However credible 63. I think I will be feeling it more than him! He is the kind of This score had him ranked kid that if he plays a bad hole, he just gets on with it”. 15th on the leaderboard Golfers from Littlestone Golf Club, helped to raise for the under 6 category, thousands of pounds to pay for his trip, and Virgin a score that he can be agreed to provide the family with free flights. really proud of. The Looker says, well done Arthur . . . You have Arthur, who is a member of done yourself, your club and your country proud!

www.thelooker.co.uk Page 31 23rd July 2015 www.thelooker.co.uk

£700 for not picking up poo A woman has been left to count the cost of not clearing up after her dog. The dog owner, who let her Rottweiler foul on the seawall at Dymchurch, was fined £200 by Canterbury magistrates on Tuesday, 7th July and ordered to pay £495 costs and a victim surcharge of £20. Tracey Griffin of Church Hill Wood, Orpington, failed to attend court and was found guilty in her absence. Magistrates were told that Shepway District Council Dog Warden, Karyl Rimmer, was doing an early morning patrol in the area on 20th November last year following complaints about dog fouling. She saw the dog foul and approached Griffin after she failed to pick up the mess. She issued an £80 fixed penalty and when this was not paid, the council took the matter to court. Cllr Stuart Peall, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said the case highlighted the council’s determination to crack down on irresponsible owners. “We will go as far as we can to catch and prosecute offenders whose irresponsible behaviour spoils our beautiful district. Dog owners may think they can get away with it, but no one is safe, regardless of where they live – which this case shows. “Be responsible, clear up after your dog or be prepared to be hit, very hard, in the pocket.”

Page 32 www.thelooker.co.uk