IGHTHAM MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

PUBLISHED FOR THE COMMUNITY BY ST PETER'S CHURCH £1 Services at St Peter’s ... the same but very different. All services are currently on Zoom, with the log-in publicised each week via a weekly email. If you don’t currently receive this weekly update, or would like information on our services, please E-mail: [email protected]

This month’s Ightham Magazine If you’d like to have access to this is a digital only edition for obvious monthly cornucopia and you’re not reasons. already a regular subscriber, why not Yet there’s a silver lining to every become one? We usually produce 10 cloud, and for the February Magazine copies per annum, with two double it’s the opportunity to have beautiful issues for July/August and December/ colour images glowing through the January. To sign up and pay your annual pages. So, admire and enjoy! £10 subscription with a standing order. Contact our Parish Administrator, As always, the Magazine is packed Babs Smith on with a fantastic array of Church and [email protected] community news.

THE PARISH OF ST PETER’S, IGHTHAM Registered Charity No.1136162 Rector: Rev Tim Hatwell T:886827 | M: 07799 601546 E: [email protected] Church Wardens: Ian Gordon T: 882732 Naomi Webster T: 07421 8329194 IGHTHAM MAGAZINE Editorial: Penny Cracknell T: 07811 066253 E: [email protected] Advertising: Helena Jenkins T: 780886 E: [email protected]

CONTACTS March edition deadline: 15th February 2021 This month’s cover photo St Valentine (whose ‘day’ is celebrated this month) is pictured in a stained-glass window at the Basilica of St Valentine in Terni, Italy. Terni claims the saint as its former Bishop. The Basilica houses relics of the saint and each year St Valentine’s Day is celebrated with fireworks and a special Mass for engaged couples. You can read more about ‘The Myths And Mysteries of St Valentine’ on page 27. - 2 - Dear Friends and Parishioners, My last magazine letter was written at the end of November for the December edition. As I look back at that letter, I reflect on the fact that it was before the first vaccination had been given, and we were trying to plan for Christmas, not only what we as a church would do for services, but also what we as families and communities were going to do about meeting up. Then along came Tier 4 for this area, combined with the new more contagious variant of Coronavirus, and we realised that it was not going to be safe enough for us to put on services for people to attend in church. Lockdown 3 happened, so the PCC decided that we would suspend in-person services until such time as it is safer, although the church is still open for private prayer on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Please rest assured that as soon as we believe we can provide services that are sufficiently Covid-safe, we will go back to meeting for worship in-person again. Meanwhile we continue to hold Sunday morning and evening services online which we broadcast via Zoom. Please do let me know if you would like to join us in worship and I will let you have the log in details. Hopefully, sometime this year, we hope that many of the restrictions on meeting together will be lifted so that we can get back to some sort of normal. The difficulty will be that Coronavirus is not going to go away, despite the speedy roll out of the vaccination programme. It looks as though people can still get Covid despite being vaccinated, although not so seriously. Face masks and distancing will therefore probably stay with us longer than people would wish. Undoubtedly there will be frustrations, but I pray that we will continue to ‘love our neighbour’ and care for one another’s health. Ash Wednesday is on the 17th of this month. As always, it marks the beginning of Lent, which for Christians is the time of preparation for Easter, lasting 40 days, plus Sundays, and ending on Easter Day on 4th April. It is our aim as a church to re-open the church for in-person services by Easter. Clearly, if it is safe enough to meet together in church for worship before Easter, then we will do so. This Lent, we are planning a joint Lent Course with St George’s, Wrotham. It will be a weekly course starting the week after Ash Wednesday. We will be meeting via Zoom and there will be at least 2 groups, one in the daytime and one in the evening. If you are interested in being part of such a course, please do contact me, and I will send you further details. This is a difficult time that we are living in, and for many a lonely time. Please do let us know if there is anything we can do to help and support you, including praying for you or for someone you know and love. Your sincerely in Christ, Tim Hatwell - 3 - www.ekwlegacyplanning.co.uk email: [email protected]

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At the time of writing, setting up a bank account is taking somewhat longer as banks have pretty much closed down everything that is not essential because of the pandemic. We have set up a website for Friends at https://ightham.kent.sch.uk/our-school/ friends-of-ightham-school/ Friends of Ightham School which will have details of how you can UPDATE apply to join the Friends and will detail We are pleased that the Charity various initiatives and projects we are Commission has registered the Friends looking forward to. of Ightham School onto the Register of If you would like further details you can Charities with the Registered Charity also contact the Chair of Friends: Number 1192718 in early December. Hugh Stirk E-mail: [email protected]

Covid Vaccine update Please read the Borough Green Surgery update on the roll out of the local vaccine programme. Vaccine information, and up-to-date details can also be found here: https://www.kentandmedwayccg.nhs.uk/your-health/coronavirus/covid19vaccine Above all, please do not phone your local surgery, but wait to be contacted at the appropriate time for your vaccination group. Thank you!

- 5 - We are so grateful to everyone who St Peter’s over the past 10 years has helped at, Coffee Shop baked for or, very importantly, attended as a customer to meet with friends or is 10 years old! make new ones. th On Wednesday 13 January we We plan to organise a belated th celebrated our 10 birthday. Although celebration once it is safe to do so and not able to meet in person, we can all meet again in person. Watch 26 people met on Zoom, including this space! some familiar faces from the first Coffee Shop on 11th January 2011. Coffee Shop on Zoom There was lots We continue to meet every week on of reminiscing Zoom and we would be delighted if you and laughter. I would like to join us for coffee and chat. am only sorry We meet communally and then go into that we were smaller breakout rooms so that people unable to can chat together in small groups as provide cake or they would in person. savouries and everyone had Please contact Jenny Webster on to make their [email protected] own coffee! or 01732 884819 for login details.

Men’s Breakfast – Virtual version continues ……. Would you like to join us? Our experiment of holding Men’s Breakfast via Zoom has proved to work surprisingly well. While it is not the same as having our full breakfast at the George and Dragon, which we miss greatly, we can still hold good conversations while eating breakfast together. It also has the convenience of not needing to go out! Everyone is welcome, on the second Saturday of the month (next breakfasts are on 13th February and 13th March). We meet through Zoom from 8:30 a.m. probably eating at about 8.45. Our breakfasts do not always come up to the G&D standard, but it is still good to get together. If you are interested in joining us and / or would like to have a regular reminder, please can you contact me, John Webster E-mail: [email protected] or 01732 884819

- 6 - Parent and Toddlers are looking forward to starting again when circumstance permit. We have a lovely new leader, Kirsty Mitchem, who is looking forward to meeting both new and current members soon. Watch out for further news on the group’s re-opening. Any questions? Please contact Kirsty who will be delighted to hear from you. T: 01732 885072 Thank You Mary Allwood would like to thank those who bought the Images of Ightham 2021 Calendar. This resulted in a donation of £430 to Hospice in the Weald - work in progress for 2022!! TMBC Refuse Collection Calendar This can be printed from the link below: https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/do-it-online/miscellaneous-forms/refuse-and-recycling- collection-dates There are hard copies available for those residents who are unable to print.

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- 7 - Welcome to Ightham Booklet Lovely things to do! New to the village? Please contact Babs Snowdrop hunts Smith for the latest edition of this useful Sadly, Great Comp Garden’s Snowdrop booklet. E: [email protected] Sensation has been cancelled this year, but why not create your own trails by looking Ightham Magazine out for these harbingers of Spring in banks Subscribe to the Ightham Magazine, and and hedgerows while on your daily walk? keep up to date with local news and Shipbourne Farmers’ Market events; read the latest Parish Council is open for online bookings. See their deliberations; and find contacts for article later in the Magazine and plan what local trades. The annual subscription Valentine dinner treats you can find by is £10, for 10 issues delivered free shopping locally. to your door. Payment can be made by standing order, cheque or cash. To The Bull, Wrotham order your subscription, please contact Or simply treat yourself and your loved [email protected] ones to a treat with a fabulous takeaway. Favourites from the Bull’s regular menu TMBC Saturday and new dishes are available for takeaway Bulky Waste Service: or delivery on Friday/Saturday/Sunday. This service is currently suspended Book online or call 01732 789800. but will hopefully restart once risk Sevenoaks Bookshop assessments have been completed. Please Enjoy an online book event or continue to check TMBC’s website https://www. order some great reads, books to plan a tmbc.gov.uk/extreme-weather/waste- garden makeover or that long hoped for service-updates for current updates on holiday or just a guidebook or map for all refuse services including booking for local walks. Visit the shop’s website or call local recycling centres. 01732 452055. Community Police Contact Hever Castle Take a peek behind the scenes at Hever Mark Thomas, our local Police Community Castle with their podcasts and videos. Support Officer is always available to Historians including Dr Tracy Borman, discuss any crime or anti-social behaviour Claire Ridgway, Lucy Churchill, Dr Lauren concerns you may have. Call him via T: 101 Mackay, Gareth Russell and Natalie or email: [email protected] Grueninger and Hever Castle staff feature in ‘Inside Hever Castle’ podcasts. Borough Green and Art online Sevenoaks Libraries Explore some fabulous overseas galleries are currently open for Select and Collect from the comfort of your own home! Be but all activities have been suspended. inspired by the The Guggenheim Museum Check the Kent Library service website Bilbao, Spain, or The Mauritshuis in The for opening hours and up to date Hague or enjoy the glories of New York’s information. Frick Gallery. The world’s your art oyster! - 8 - Beautifully made Chocolatechocolate and Sweet andBouquets sweet and Treats! Sellingbouquets beautifully madeand chocolate treats! and sweet bouquets and treats! A perfect gift forA perfect so manygift for so occasions!many occasions!

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Ightham WI has remained active and has topical jokes and emails keeping members now held 10 Monthly meetings via Zoom. involved. The December Meeting took the form of In January 29 members gathered again a Christmas Party and was enjoyed by 40 via Zoom with up-dates on the various members. The hard-working committee activities that are managing to continue. had delivered a Surprise Christmas Bag to Members also voted on the National each member and these were opened at Resolutions, an important WI annual the beginning of the Party. activity in which all Institutes have a vote. Contents included Jokes, Raffle Tickets, Ightham voted for the Resolution calling Seeds, Puzzle, Handmade Decorations and for an ‘Increase in awareness of the subtle Hats which were put to immediate use signs of Ovarian Cancer’. (see below). Chris O’Donoghue then entertained with There followed a lively mix of games, his talk, ‘Behind the Scenes at the Chelsea readings and competitions with a lot of Flower Show’ telling of his experiences audience participation and much laughter designing and creating three small and ended with a toast to the year ahead, Chelsea Gardens. The talk was beautifully and whatever it might bring. illustrated, full of information and details. A new Theatre Discussion Group has On February 9th the speaker will be been formed and craft meetings, book Naomi Webster; her subject Jersey Zoo. groups and the occasional chat over Anyone interested in joining should lunch continue on Zoom. There is an contact the Secretary, Moyra Pickering. active list of books and jigsaws that can E: [email protected]. be borrowed, and a regular exchange of Mary Allwood - 882654

- 10 - MEDITATE What is love It is not enough to love – J R Miller (1840-1912) was considered you need to be loved by many to be the most gifted devotional Sometimes we can be inclined to give and writer of his generation. His book ‘In give and give to others - without asking Green Pastures’ was much loved. anything in return. Here is J R Miller’s paraphrase of the We may think that this is a sign of famous ‘love’ passage in 1 Corinthians 13: generosity - of great strength. But it can also be one of pride - we want to be seen Love thinks no evil. It does not suspect as the one who does not need help. Or unkindness in kindly deeds. It does not it can be a sign of very low self-esteem - imagine an enemy in every friend. It does we do not think we are worth receiving not fear insincerity in sincere professions of anything from others. esteem. It does not impugn others’ motives nor discount their acts. Whatever the reason, when we keep giving, without also receiving, we put On the other hand, it overlooks foibles and ourselves in danger - we will burn out hides the multitude of faults that belong to quickly. every human being, even to those who are the holiest and the best. Love believes in the good It is as important to know when we need that is in people and tries to think of them to TAKE attention and care, as when we always at their best, not at their worst. need to give it to others. If you do not pay careful attention to your It looks, too, at the possibilities that are in own needs - whether physical, emotional, people, what they may become through divine mental or spiritual - you will not last the love and grace, and not merely at what they distance. now are. It is wonderful how seeing through love’s eyes changes the whole face of earthly If you want to remain a joyful giver for life, transfiguring it. If the heart be filled with years to come, you need also to be a joyful suspicion, distrust, and doubt of people, the taker and accept God’s love, given to you world grows very ugly. But love sees brightness, through other people. beauty and hope everywhere. Source: The Parish Pump FAIRTRADE Yet with the help of Fairtrade, many of these producers of food, drinks and FORTNIGHT: cottons can be equipped to meet more 22nd February – 7th March everyday needs, and to deal with the It has been a terrible year for farmers challenges facing them. and workers in the global south. In 2020, So this month, why not visit on top of the pandemic, they had to www.fairtrade.org.uk and see how you deal with the growing impact of climate can send some support. change: more droughts and crop disease, EDITOR’S NOTE: locusts, floods, fires, and heatwaves. No St Peter’s Church and Coffee Shop uses wonder their harvests were shrinking. fairtrade tea, coffee and sugar. - 11 - Comfortable, clean and punctual Pre-booked service to order LargeContact estate Des: car 07711779417 and six seater orexecutive Elfriede: vehicle 07935656327 available e-mail: [email protected]

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1 ST IGHTHAM BEAVERS, CUBS AND SCOUTS www.Scouts247.org.uk Meeting InformatiLESTERon – All Sections B ROWNare open to both boysLTD and girls.. Beavers: 6 – 8 yrs. Thursday evening B Contact: [email protected] ALL ELECTRICALCubs: 8 – 10½ WORK yrs. MondayUNDERT eveningAKEN Contact: [email protected] NO JOBScouts: TOO SMALL10½ - 14 / yrs. BIG Friday evening FREEContact: ESTIMA JamesTES Reid 789400/ 07974 412 932 Ightham Scout Group operates an admission policy. Please contact us ASAP to have your childNO putCALLOUT on the expression FEE of interest list. Due to our popularity all NICEICsections CONTRACT are currentlyOR at maximum capacity. Admissions manager: [email protected] P.A.T. TESTING Clothing /Textile Recycling and Newspaper • Situated at Ightham Village Hall Car Park Marquees for hire T : 07766• 20ft 657x 40ft 234for weddings & parties • Mini [email protected] x 13ft, tables & chairs for garden parties, BBQs & weddings All proceeds go directly to the Scout Group to help the young people of your village For any enquiries about joining Beavers, Cubs or Scouts please email [email protected] - 14 - BRAIN MATTERS … oxytocin matters … The dark days of winter are receding and for many a yummy Shrove Tuesday we start to see the first signs of spring delight. Vitamin D is also important as a in the form of snowdrops and crocuses prohormone which facilitates the trio of peeking through the frosty floor. To start important hormones oxytocin, serotonin warming ourselves up in preparation for and vasopressin. Egg isn’t the only way to the spring we can focus on positively boost vitamin D as mushrooms and fatty increasing our oxytocin levels. acid foods such as salmon or avocado also We naturally produce oxytocin but help. certain activities and foods can increase Vitamin C is another useful nutrient in our supply and make us feel the “love”. managing oxytocin levels so indulge in When we have a surge of oxytocin it can some freshly squeezed orange juice or add support prosocial behaviour and make peppers and tomatoes to your omelette. us feel better, both about ourselves and Minerals play an important role too and towards others. To increase our oxytocin increasing magnesium will help to make supply, and especially under the current your oxytocin levels function well and restrictions, we can start boosting it by support other processes in the body. You practising yoga. This will also help to can build the perfect meals by utilising improve sleep, provide relief from feeling eggs, spinach, mushrooms, pumpkin, down and lessen anxiety or stress. avocado and dark chocolate. Another boost is through listening Dark chocolate has magnesium and to music – something you enjoy, as it antioxidants – we really do experience improves mood, focus and especially a lift in mood when we eat chocolate! motivation, something I’m sure we are Remember the darker it is, the more all starting to lack. Music also helps our nutritionally beneficial as it will have less social bonds – why not set up a family or sugar and be more effective. Try whipping friends’ Zoom music night? Surprisingly up a dark chocolate mousse or make just telling someone how much you care dark chocolate pancakes served with about them will boost not just your strawberries. oxytocin levels but theirs too. So maybe Aim to take time to focus on yourself and this Valentine’s or Shrove Tuesday whip up boosting your happy hormones, enjoy the a special meal and let your partner/family freedoms of a daily walk, try a new route know how much they mean to you? So and explore your village and surrounds. often we take this for granted, so a special Take the time to contact someone who meal could be a welcome reminder. may be feeling lonely and brighten up their If you happen to be on your own take time day with a call. to have a self-care day, pamper yourself, By boosting your own oxytocin, you will enjoy good food, some dark chocolate be more likely to boost someone else’s. indulgence and some flowers to brighten Have fun, try something new and don’t your mood. Food boosters come in forget to share the Valentine’s love! the form of vitamin D – something we Chantal Montebello-Ealey should all be increasing. This is best done [email protected] with eggs which are a prime ingredient - 15 - SHIPBOURNE FARMERS’ MARKET

those who do attend MAKE ‘BUY LOCAL’ spend far more as YOUR NEW YEAR’S many customers make it their main RESOLUTION! shop, combined with the fact that there is no need to carry any heavy produce (as all You’ll eat more healthily, food will taste purchases are placed into the boot of your better and you’ll save money by shopping car!!). locally with the seasons. In addition, you will be supporting small local producers. In December we learnt that we had won the Kent Life award for the ‘Most 2020, the strangest of years. innovative Food and Drink initiative’. Two In January, we found that we had won of our Producers, Greensand Distillery and the best (national) Farmers’ Market, The Bakehouse at 124 also won Awards awarded by the Farm Retail Association. for their Category. In March it became obvious that the In January 2021 we are once again back market would have to close under the in Lock Down and we intend to continue Covid Lock Down Regulations, even with the present solution as we still see though Farmers’ Markets are classified as it as SAFER, more comfortable (sitting in Retail Food Outlets. However, following your car) and much more efficient than a brain storming session with the Parish shopping in a supermarket. Council we developed a SAFE SHOPPING The market re-opened on 7th January, approach by combining an online ordering a week earlier than planned to enable system with a ‘Drive Thru’ pick up. By the shoppers to stock up their larders and first week of April, we had the first market freezers following the latest Lock Down…. up and running, which meant we did not What’s available at the Market close at all! in February In June we were included in the Government’s list of ‘Great Innovations’ in Colder seas attract lemon sole, halibut, the Covid crisis. skate, turbot and monkfish close to our In October we planned to revert back shores, and shellfish fans should order to the Church but with the onset of more clams, mussels, oysters and cockles. Covid outbreaks in Kent we decided to Scallops come into season later this continue with our existing safe solution. month. Try them wrapped in streaky The lack of space in the Church and the bacon. They are also delicious pan-fried Church Approach would have also made it and served on a creamy puree of seasonal difficult to introduce social distancing. cauliflower. Although the numbers attending the For meat eaters, game is again an excellent online market declined during the summer choice for seasonal healthy eating. It is full months we experienced a rapid increase of flavour and is best enjoyed griddled, by December. We have also found that quickly stir-fried or in a meaty stew. - 16 - Venison, guinea fowl, and wood pigeon are Prep 10 minutes | Cook 40 minutes all good in February, while the comfort Serves 2 eaters amongst you might try mutton for • 300g waxy potatoes, scrubbed and its rich taste. thinly sliced Serve your meat with cabbages and • 1 Romano red pepper, seeded and brassicas; you’ll find them at their freshest sliced and crunchiest at this time of year. Savoy • 1 preserved lemon, roughly chopped cabbage, cauliflower, kale, sprouts, sprout tops and purple sprouting broccoli all • 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped work perfectly in stir fries and curries, • 3 fresh bay leaves, torn in half or perhaps serve them simply shredded • 2 sea bass fillets (about 150 – 200g and steamed tossed with a little seasoning each), skin left on and a dash of cold pressed rapeseed oil. • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Main crop potatoes, parsnips and turnips provide the starch that keeps us going 1 Preheat the oven to 200C or gas in the cold so mash them together with mark 6. Put the potatoes, pepper, a little seasoning and butter as a side to lemon, garlic and bay leaves in a bowl your game dishes. with half the olive oil and seasoning and toss together to combine. Spread over For more information about shopping the base of a roasting pan or baking online and our Producers, go to dish that will fit the fish fillets neatly. www.shipbournefm.co.uk and start Bake in the oven for 25 – 30 minutes shopping. until nearly tender and starting to Baked sea bass with potatoes, brown at the edges. peppers and preserved lemons 2 Remove from the oven and turn the potatoes carefully to bring any unbrowned bits to the surface. Arrange the fish fillets on the top, skin side up. Drizzle with the remaining oil and return to the oven for 10 -12 minutes until the fish is cooked through. Serve on warmed plates with a green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. Menu by Mary Gwynn who is a local author This is a simple and quick method of and food writer. She writes regularly for cooking any fish as it’s incredibly simple Waitrose Weekend newspaper and has and quick. It works with either fillets or published several cookery books, including The whole fish and all you need is a salad or WI Cookbook: The First 100 Years and The steamed green veg such as broccoli for a Busy Mum’s Cookbook. healthy meal. ‘

Take a look at the flowers and plants blooming around you. They didn’t worry their way to awesomeness. And you can’t either. God cares about ‘ you, so let Him carry your worries and fears. 1 Peter 5 v 7 - 17 - [email protected] www.treeservicesltd.co.uk FROM YOUR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT Christmas is a magical time of year. It is a time to relax and an opportunity to spend time PUBLIC OPEN DAYS with loved ones. But, sadly, there are many in our community who do not have anybody to share thatJoin special us at Planet time Plants,with. There areyour hundreds local wholesale of people who spend Christmas alone. This could be because they nursery specialising have no nearbyin ornamental family, shrubs and their neighbours are elsewhere. Here, in Tonbridge, Edenbridge and Mallingand I trees,am proud on dedicated of the manyPLANET community groups that step up to help people in these situationspublic at this open time days of this year. year. PLANTS Although we are now in the festive season, theVisit winter our website months and follow are usoften on Facebook the hardest and to be alone. The fewer hours of sunlight and cold temperaturesInstagram to find mean out about that these life eventscan becomewhich very lonely. I hope that we will all spare a thought fortake those place from who Spring will to Autumnbe on ortheir get in own touch over the coming weeks and months and look out for neighboursto find out more.who may be alone. W planetplants.co.ukplanetplants.co.uk With this being the final edition before Christmasfacebook.com/planetplantsfacebook.com/planetplants of the Ightham Magazine, I would like to thank everyone for their support over the past year.instagram.com/planetplants_ighthaminstagram.com/planetplants_ightham I thoroughly enjoy my role as your MP, and am honoured to serve such a wonderful community.Tel 01732 884589 I hope Email I have [email protected] been accessible to all and that these columns provide a good insight into my work on your behalf.

I wish everyonePLANET PLANTS,a very MerryBACK LANE, Christmas, IVY HATCH, and IGHTHAM, Happy New SEVENOAKS Year. TN15 9AU Best wishes - 18 - To m Tom Tugendhat MBE MP - Member of Parliament for Tonbridge and Malling 130 Vale Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1SP | E: [email protected] | T: 01732 441563 Membership Secretary: Cathy Reid-Dick T: 887056

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www.rwers.co.uk E: [email protected] - 19 - FROM THE PARISH COUNCIL Chairman: Cllr Rodney Willingham There is room for Vice Chairman: Cllr Michael Holden improvement in terms of service Parish Clerk: Mrs Sarah Huseyin quality ie putting bins T: 01732 886402 back and reducing E: [email protected] the number of hot spots to zero. Councillors: Despite recycling increasing by 50% due to Cllr Steve Burgham Covid and an increase in queuing at North Cllr David Emmett Farm due to the closure of Dunbrik, Cllr Ray Fielder Urbaser have performed well. Cllr Betts Cllr David Hall said that fly tipping is an issue in his ward Cllr Tamsin Hogarth and he has asked for it to be on the next Cllr Kirsty Mitchem Street Scene meeting Agenda for the development of a strategy to prevent and From the Parish Council catch offenders. Minutes – Tuesday There are increasing pressures on staff at 15 December 2020 TMBC due to Covid but the Community Hub is helping those who are shielding; Due to the Corona Virus COVID-19 the they have a direct link with supermarkets. Government has advised that Council There are business grants available for meetings should be held remotely for the businesses that have not been forced to foreseeable future. The approved platform close but are still struggling; information is chosen was via Zoom. on the website. UPDATES FROM Cllr Betts said that the first phase of local BOROUGH AND COUNTY recycling site closures would commence COUNCILLORS in January and the site at Ightham Mote would close. Only 10 strategic locations Cllr Betts reported that Urbaser had will remain. The site at Ightham Village Hall completed all collections since August and will go in phase 2. the service has greatly improved.

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- 20 - Climate Change: At the recent Street Cllr Rayner said that the 2 main items Scene meeting, sites for tree planting and being discussed at KCC were Covid and woodland schemes were discussed. Brexit. There is concern about the rapid A test pilot for a Miyawaki Forest has been rise in cases and the impact on local approved (a very small densely populated hospitals. forest that helps with carbon absorption) MATTERS ARISING and will be announced soon. They are also looking at suitable locations for electric Highways & PROW Matters: vehicle charging points. Resurfacing of Mill Lane - a resident Cllr Betts said that all Parishes should reported that resurfacing had been be adopting their own Climate Change scheduled but it has only been patched; Strategy. this has been taken up with Kent Highways. Cllr Emmet asked about enforcement for fly-tipping. Cllr Betts said that there Large pothole outside the cricket club and is a dedicated team to deal with fly- along A227 outside April Cottage. tipping through to prosecution. Identifying We have had several complaints about the material in the waste usually leads back to recent diversions for the closure of Coach the householder although the fly-tipping Road. has often occurred via an unlicensed Unfortunately, this was not helped by the carrier. closure of Copt Hall Road due to a water The process of reaching those who leak. It was noted that the diversion signs commit the crime is often long-winded. caused confusion and chaos and the re- routing was inappropriate. Cllr Holden asked about the bulkyAvailable waste 7 days a week collection. Cllr Betts said that it was Fly tipping of household goods reported scheduled to return and the holdupFor was lesson southprices, of Ightham package Mote. discounts and with the risk assessments. general enquiriesBarbed wire contact at Longcroft me directly: Lodge footpath: The Clerk asked about the asymptomatic It was reported that a dog was injured this CovidFelicia testing scheme. Smith Cllr BettsMobile: said that 07715645501week. It is understood that if the wire is itBased was being in rolled Ivy outHatch. in Swale andEmail: Thanet [email protected] wrapped around a post on a footpath, that and would get some information on TMBC this is unlawful. The Clerk was asked to for our next meeting, report to PROW.

- 21 - and would ask James Hayward to cut them back. The car park lights will be painted next spring and we will need a cherry picker. The Parish Clerk said that she would organise some signage for the park and would contact Sevenoaks Dictrict Council to find out their signage source. The meeting closed at 10.05pm.

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TMBC Parking Highways necessary. However, this will Meeting with Andy Edwards be checked. on 17th December: The Clerk asked Tennis Club: Update - whether there were any areas that should There is a still an issue with be raised in addition to the Harrow. Cllr the water pressure, but the contractors Burgham said that we should monitor the have not been able to work out the cause, parking on The Street as it obstructed and it will require further investigation. sightlines although it had improved Cllr Mitchem said that the lighting from the recently. Scout Pavilion was not reaching far enough Overgrown hedge at Little Holt. and it was agreed that an additional light Village Traffic Matters: Update Parking could be installed. on A25/Old Lane - nothing to report. Cllr Ightham Cricket Club: Update - Cllr Burgham said that parking of HGV’s on Willingham reported that we had just paid Dark Hill Road was of concern but the the second payment and thought that the Clerk said that there was a plan to put final payment would be due imminently as yellow lines at this location. they were almost at the fitting out stage. Scout Pavilion: Defibrillator -This has He will go and check on progress. now been installed and registered and we Busty Stream: Maintenance - Cllr are awaiting a quote from a carpenter to Holden reported that the residents were build a cabinet. doing a great job of monitoring the Busty Old Scout Hut: Update - Lease: and removing any debris. The Clerk reported that she had heard Flooding: Replanting at Chapel View from KCC and their lawyers were due to - Cllr Willingham reported that we were contact Warners with their comments. waiting on a meeting with residents to We are still awaiting a second quote for discuss garden waste before making a the fire alarms and broadband installation decision. before deciding on our contribution. Cllr Village Hall: Update - Nothing to Willingham reported that the new toilets report. Only Scouts are using the Hall at have been installed. present. Ightham Football Club: Pitch Survey Crime Report/Neighbourhood - Cllr Holden reported that he had been Watch: Update - The Clerk reported in touch with a couple of contractors. that N2O canisters had been found in One had provided a quote but it was for a the car park and that we should monitor considerable sum. The second contractor if it becomes a regular occurrence. Cllr had given 3 options that would fit with Mitchem said that we should notify Lizzie the Football Association requirements. Jones and ask the PCSO to check when he It was decided that the third option was is in the area. preferable as it would also provide a Allotments behind Common Road: tiered seating area and Cllr Holden said Visual Tree Assessment - The Clerk that he would request a quote based on reported that Treeability were carrying out this option. A question was raised about an assessment and had been in contact drainage if the pitch is flat and Cllr Holden with the tenants of the Paddock to gain said that as long as enough topsoil is access. used, the surveyor did not think it was - 23 - Recreation Ground: Maintenance, Any Other Business leaves etc - Cllr Willingham has spoken The Clerk said that nominations for the to James Hayward about clearing the Community Award were coming up and leaves. made a suggestion that was agreed. New fence along Arboret boundary – the Cllr Holden reported that there were fence is dilapidated and needs replacing Covid Marshalls patrolling in Borough having been damaged recently by a fallen Green. tree. This is our responsibility, and it was decided that the fence from the bottom Cllr Willingham reported that the of the pathway to Oldbury Lane should be Christmas tree had been delivered today replaced. and the residents were going to decorate it. The Clerk was asked to write to A question was raised about the fencing Fairlawne to thank them. along the path in the Recreation Ground and it was thought that these belonged to The meeting closed at 21.48. residents. The Clerk said that she would order a PARISH COUNCIL new bin. Cllr Mitchem said that the new NEWS wet pour had been installed and looked good. Cllr Willingham has moved the IGHTHAM PARISH bench. HIGHWAY IMPROVEMENT Cllr Holden said that there were a number PLAN 2020 - 21 of large potholes in the car park and Cllr Ightham Parish Council has recently Willingham will contact Robert Body. Cllr received several communications regarding Willingham thanked Cllr Fielder for cutting traffic issues in Ightham such as speeding back the beech hedging. and parking infringements. It was agreed that we would defer a We do have a Highways Improvement Plan decision on a storage container until we in place which is currently with the Kent decide on the pitch levelling. Highways. However, we have been advised Chapel Farm: Planting - A resident that all Highways Plans are on hold due to had reported that further cutting back COVID. had occurred during the night and the Below is a brief summary of what is replanting has yet to be done. TMBC have contained in our Plan, and what we hope been informed. to achieve. St Peter’s: Cllrs Hall and Burgham are Ightham Parish Council commissioned the organising a thank you gift for Penny. Cllr services of Les Henry Associates in June Hogarth agreed to be the Church liaison 2019 to address a number of traffic related officer as a replacement for Penny. issues in our Parish. PLANNING The Parish Council decided that it would be more beneficial to look at the Parish as 16 Planning Applications were received an a whole rather than make several separate no objections were raised. TMBC approved requests. 4 planning applications and refused 1. The Parish has earmarked some funding to - 24 - contribute to Kent Highways in order to Traffic Enforcement implement the changes: Officers patrol the village • Speed limit to be reduced to 30mph on and will issue tickets to all roads (excluding A25) and extended cars parked on double on any other road, e.g. A227 to the yellow lines. Police Officers Parish boundary or Back Lane. A25 are undertaking speed checks under from Coach Road to the Ightham bypass Operation Impala. to be reduced from 50mph to 40mph. The Parish Council will of course provide • 30mph limit on Borough Green Road an update as soon as there are any further from the Dark Hill roundabout to the developments as highways issues and existing 30mph zone with the provision concerns remain a priority issue. of a chicane or speed reducing feature. DOMESTIC BONFIRES • 20mph limit on Oldbury Lane and Spring DURING COVID-19 Lane to improve safety for the local The Parish Council continues to receive primary school. complaints about the impact of domestic • Not suitable HGV signage /weight limit bonfires on neighbouring properties. If on narrow lanes – Busty Lane/ Trycewell you are considering having a bonfire, Lane/ Ismays Road. please think twice about your neighbours, • A stop sign to replace the Give Way sign particularly at this time when many at the junction of Fen Pond Road and elderly individuals, or those self-isolating Borough Green Road. can only enjoy their immediate gardens • White gates at various entrance due to current guidelines in response locations: Borough Green Road at Dark to COVID-19. Smoke from bonfires Hill, A227 in the vicinity of Back Lane, can aggravate respiratory problems, Fen Pond Road, Sevenoaks Road from which people with underlying health A25 conditions or with virus symptoms may be experiencing. • Priority passing/road markings and speed calming on The Street, with a Please think of others, compost your 20mph limit. We suggest a kerb build out garden waste or subscribe to the TMBC at Stone Cottage with priority signage garden waste service. Bonfires can also for vehicles travelling south. become out of control or cause accidents, creating extra pressure on our already • A roundabout at A25/Oldbury Lane busy emergency services. junction (some consideration has already been given by Kent Highways If you must have a bonfire follow these and we would like this to continue). guidelines to avoid causing a nuisance and to keep safe: Until the Plan is implemented, we respectfully ask everyone to drive with • Keep the number of bonfires to an more consideration. During the current absolute minimum. period of COVID lockdown, there are • Only burn dry material. This will more walkers, dog walkers and horse- produce the minimum of smoke. riders using our narrow roads, please drive • Never burn household rubbish, rubber carefully and park with consideration for tyres, or anything containing plastic, others. foam or paint. - 25 - FOR WEALTH MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS THAT REALLY DELIVER, WE’LL POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION…

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- 26 - • Never use old engine oil, methylated There are no specific laws relating to spirit or petrol to light or encourage the garden bonfires or times at which they can fire. or cannot be lit. However, if a neighbour • Avoid lighting a fire in unsuitable is repeatedly causing a problem to you by weather conditions. If it is windy, smoke burning rubbish or garden waste it may be may be blown into neighbours’ gardens considered a statutory nuisance and can be and across roads. investigated by the Borough Council. • Keep the bonfire under adult If you feel the problem may be classed as supervision at all times and ensure it is a statutory nuisance, have spoken to the extinguished completely, by dousing with person involved - whilst maintaining social soil or water, before you leave it. distancing - (or do not feel you are able to) and the smoke nuisance continues, please • Keep a hose pipe or buckets of water complete the online report form close at hand in case the fire gets out of https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/services/ hand. environment-and-planning/pollution/ • Take account of your neighbours’ nuisances/bonfire activities e.g. washing hanging on a or contact them line, open windows, sitting in garden, [email protected] decorating etc. Thank you for your consideration and co- • Consult, or at least warn, your operation. neighbour before lighting a bonfire.

Valentine. Popular indeed! St Valentine The myths and is the patron saint of beekeepers and epilepsy whilst also being the patron mysteries of saint of engaged couples and happy marriages. St Valentine We may have our famous Geoffrey Valentinus originates from the Latin Chaucer to thank for the invention for worthy or powerful. Who exactly of St Valentine’s Day. His 1375 poem, though was St Valentine? ‘Parliament of Foules’, contains the now As recognised by the Roman Catholic famous lines church, St Valentine as a real person, died “For this was sent on Seynt Valentyne’s day around AD270. However, it is possible Whan every foul cometh ther to choose his that St Valentine is a conflation of two mate,” different people, both martyred by and marketing history was made! Emperor Claudius II for helping Christian So in a year when family and friends, and couples marry – a temple priest or the those nearest and dearest to us have Bishop of Terni. become ever more regarded, perhaps The St Valentine celebrated today is even the greatest sceptics might invest known officially as St Valentine of Rome, in a little bunch of flowers (preferably which differentiates him from several not red roses!) on February 14th to other Valentines and a fleeting Pope acknowledge someone we value. - 27 - Find out more at www.TheEcoPantry.co.uk

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- 28 - NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Dear Neighbours, Oh dear, we’re in the middle of yet another lockdown. Even though most of us are at home there are still security issues to consider. So below are two articles extracted from the West Kent NHW newsletter, written in conjunction with Kent Police. Also, a “Child’s View” of what the last lockdown felt like to a youngster from Tonbridge. A timely reminder of just how important it is to get back to school, work and play! We all pray for this vaccination programme to work for us all…old & young alike… and look forward to happier times with our family, neighbours & friends. Cedric Read, Ightham Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator

Courier Fraud Anyone receiving a Fraud detectives are suspicious phone call reminding people to from the police should beware of criminals hang up, wait 5 minutes posing as police officers for the line to clear, then who ask for financial ring 101 to check the details (bank cards, cash credentials of the person or personal information) who called. Remember: over the phone. The Never assume someone elderly & vulnerable are is telling the truth; especially at risk. always confirm the details provided. A resident from Otford was recently contacted by a fraudster: Kent Against Burglary He handed over bank details and PIN With the new COVID restrictions in place to a man, posing as a courier, after being people are staying at home, but this will told over the phone that there had been not stop opportunistic burglars. Make an attempt to steal cash from his bank it harder for thieves to steal, says Kent account. Within hours the resident had Police, “Take simple steps such as storing lost £2,600. keys away from doors and windows, To quote a Detective from Kent police: and take them with you when you go “Despite potential victims growing wise to to bed-especially car keys. Do not leave the scams, the criminals are still operating packaging by your bins that show your these frauds. We should all look out for recent valuable purchases; dispose of it our neighbours and family members. Please discreetly. Store and lock away bikes, tools let us know if you know of anyone who and garden items…particularly implements either might be collecting packages from that could be used to break into your elderly people in suspicious circumstances, home.” or even taking them by a taxi or van to a For further advice go to: www. kent.police. bank to withdraw their savings”. uk/kent-against-burglary

- 29 - make any further calls or use a mobile phone if you have one? Kent The scammers will tell you that they need you to withdraw large amounts of Police cash from your bank, “but you must not Dear residents, tell anyone or the bank due to someone in the bank giving out fraudulent notes”. Kent Police have had an increase of calls lately from residents who have This is not the case. received calls on the landline phone from No Police Force will call a member of someone claiming to be a Metropolitan the public asking for them to help in this Police officer. This officer will claim way. If you receive any unsolicited calls that someone has been arrested with a claiming the above, please end the call cloned card in your name and that they and report it to Kent Police. The non- need your help. emergency number for any Police Force He (or she) will tell you their force/ in the UK is 101. collar number and to ring 191 (101 is the Please think before giving out any private correct number to call) to confirm with details, bank account/card numbers that the Metropolitan Police control room. it could be a scammer. Remember that If the person has rung on the landline Banks or the Police will never ask for then they will have an open line for money or passwords and ALWAYS check around ten minutes even after you have if the caller is genuine. put the phone down. So please make Kind Regards sure you have a dialling tone before you PCSO Mark Thomas

national lockdown I was delighted at the Child’s View thought of missing school! On the day of Lockdown we were sent home I was excited to see more of my Mum. But because of her job For many of us residents in Ightham, one I don’t see very much of her. of the most troubling effects of lockdown is the way it has flattened the rhythms of Fortunately, my school was excellent at life, creating a monochrome “timescape” organising my home learning. Each day of undifferentiated days. being carefully planned and including 30 minutes for exercise and reading. School (& University) lockdowns and However, after settling into the daily social distancing restrictions have rhythm I found that I wasn’t learning that particularly afflicted our young people much anymore as my school could not desperate for a normal social life and communicate very effectively new areas learning environment. of learning through technology. Consider this view from Marijke, aged 12, I cannot wait to go back to school, to see from Tonbridge: my friends again and have a teacher help “When I first heard there would be a me learn.” - 30 - PLAXTOL LOCAL HISTORY GROUP was a policy for many years. Weak results School Life in arithmetic were a feature. The school in Victorian Plaxtol always suffered a high level of absenteeism, Sunday schools in England and Wales were due mainly to children helping at harvest regarded as a way to educate children of time. the poor, but were not a substitute for full School numbers were nearly 160 in time education, speaker Tom Hogg told the most years and the compulsory age for Plaxtol Local History Group’s December schooling was 5 – 10 years, rising to 12 meeting. in 1899. Corporal punishment was in In 1811, the Anglican Church founded evidence, school amenities were basic, the National Society, which used its own heating was by log stoves, and lighting was funds to build schools and employ school by oil lamps as electricity did not arrive teachers. In 1846, an application was until 1933. School desks were in the made by the Revd. Mayo to the ‘National Victorian style. Society’ for construction of two schools Disease was a huge factor in the disruption and head-teacher accommodation on a of school life. The school suffered two recently acquired site to assist about 150 flu epidemics and three closures for children (now site of Plaxtol’s village hall). long periods due to measles and scarlet The schools were built with a contribution fever whilst whooping cough, mumps and from the Revd. Mayo representing almost diphtheria were also in evidence. 50% of the cost. In the mid 1880s evening classes were The separate Boys’ and Girls’ (including available. Some children on the Parish Infants) schools opened in 1847 and borders attended Oxenhoath School and the schools merged in 1874 under the there was also a school at the Kentish leadership of headmaster William Smith. Rifleman. School logs confirm that teaching in the The Roll of Honour in Plaxtol Memorial school was initially based on minimal Hall shows the many former teachers and teaching staff, employing the monitorial children who fought in the Great War. system and was financed through fees, Many were wounded and 27 died. voluntary contributions and grants. Please note that all meetings of the Group The clergy played an active part. Managers are currently on Zoom. The next meeting, and inspectors supervised, so that all on February 9th is the inaugural Founders elements of the school were under Lecture. control. Pupil teachers – many local – were Please visit the Group’s website (https:// part of the structure. The curriculum was plaxtollocalhistory.wordpress.com) mainly the 3 Rs and payment by results for information. A man who loves his wife will love her letters and her photographs ‘ because they speak to him of her. So, if we love the Lord Jesus, we shall ‘ love the Bible because it speaks to us of Him. John R W Stott - 31 - Borough Green Taxis

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T e r m t i m e M o n d a y - T h u r s d a y 9 a m - 3 p m F r i d a y 9 a m - 1 p m

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Barbara Smith (Anna Friend) 01732 882221 [email protected] - 33 - FROM YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR My last column ended waiting for a second In the way of these things, it is likely to letter from the two planning Inspectors, take some months and so having reached who are examining the Tonbridge & Malling this juncture I do not intend to write Draft Local Plan. This has now been further on this subject for the foreseeable forthcoming. The Inspectors wrote to future. I anticipate that one way or Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council on another, the draft local plan is unlikely to 15th December 2020. The letter sets out proceed in its present format. in great detail the very significant concerns In December the Government announced expressed by the Inspectors in connection that KCC were to be granted powers with the processes, or lack thereof, in to prevent HGV ‘fly parking’ in East drafting the Tonbridge & Malling Local Plan. Kent boroughs and districts. At the time The letter is lengthy running to six pages, of writing HGV cross channel traffic but the most impactful is paragraph 18 in 2021 has been remarkably light and which I reproduce below. consequently action required on HGV ‘On the basis of the evidence currently parking enforcement, using the new before us, for the reasons set out above, it powers, has been limited. I am however, is reasonable to conclude, having carefully concerned that in the medium term as considered all the evidence, that the Council cross channel HGV traffic rebuilds, drivers has failed to engage constructively, actively and operators will come to understand and on an ongoing basis in preparation of that they will incur penalty charges for ‘fly the plan, so far as it relates to the strategic parking’ in East Kent, but not in West Kent. matter of (new) housing, and that the ‘Duty Please feel free to email me at the to Cooperate’ (between councils) in Section address below if you find increased HGV 33A of the 2004 Act has not been complied ‘fly parking’ adversely impacts you or with. This cannot be remedied during the your community. I want to track any examination of the plan.’ displacement HGV ‘fly parking’ from The Inspectors invited T&MBC to consider East to West Kent to ensure fair parking and respond to their letter and also wrote: enforcement. ‘In the light of our serious concerns regarding I know, from those who have recently the Duty to Cooperate’ as set out above, we emailed me on the matter, that home consider it a very strong likelihood that there educating children presents multiple will be no other option other than to invite problems for parents of children who you to withdraw the plan from examination would but for the current pandemic be or, failing that, for us to issue a final report attending school with all the social benefits recommending that the plan is not adopted that brings. You have my full sympathy and because of a failure to meet the Duty to my assurance that I will be using my very Cooperate in accordance with our duties best endeavours to ensure that once the under the (Planning Act.) present prohibition is lifted, KCC moves No doubt T&MBC will want time both to swiftly to reopen schools. consider their options, and to be in touch Harry Rayner, Kent County Councillor with the Inspectorate to consider such E: [email protected] processes as remain open to them. - 34 -

FebruaryCCTV & SECURITY SPECIALISTS at Ightham INSTALLATION Mote OF FULLY NETWORKED CCTV SYSTEMS BlowREMOTELY away the cobwebs VIEWABLE with FROMa YOUR PC OR MOBILE PHONE walkSUPPLY at Ightham AND INSTALLATION Mote! OF AERIAL AND SATELLITE SYSTEMS

The estate is openGARDEN from dawn AND SECURITY LIGHTING to dusk, and the garden from 1100EXTERNAL – 1500 daily. CCTV FOR SHEDS, GARAGES, POOL HOUSES ETC. To guarantee garden access bookings are strongly advisedHD CCTV 1080P AVAILABLE especially for weekend visits, although there may be more relaxed weekday availability.TEL: 01732 22 00 52 Call 01732 810378 or check MOBILE: 07734 881 880 online to book or to check opening hours. Photo by Mary Allwood

email: [email protected] www.welhamjones.co.uk

- 35 - BOROUGH GREEN MEDICAL PRACTICE

Covid-19 vaccines. Due to short notice The local Covid notification of deliveries this is most likely vaccination programme to be a phone call initially. Front line health and social care workers The practice has commenced its should send us an email from their work programme for delivering Covid email address stating their name, job title vaccinations. Vaccinations will be delivered and employer addressed to gp.G82120@ at either Sevenoaks Medical Centre, Beadle nhs.net House, London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 2JD or at the surgery. There will be home visits We appreciate our patients concerns for housebound patients and Care home about when they are likely to be patients and staff. vaccinated but we ask that you do not call us to enquire but keep an eye on our We have started inviting patients based on Website or Facebook page for updates. the national priority list. Please be patient Our phone lines and staff are very busy and wait to be contacted about when the and we need your support to keep phone vaccine is available for you. We are inviting lines open for people needing to make our eldest patients first. appointments for other health matters and The first deliveries of vaccines will for our staff to work on the programme. be rolled out in keeping with national The vaccination programme will take recommendations for Priority Groups 1 several months to work through everyone, and 2: so it could be some time before you are • Residents in a care home for older contacted. adults and their carers We hope to hold clinics to support the • All those 80 years of age and over and National targets but we have no control frontline health and social care workers over the scheduling of the vaccine Patients aged over 80 do not need to deliveries so it is impossible to put a contact the surgery and will receive a timescale on when we will be inviting letter, text or phone call about getting the subsequent groups of patients.

Who’s in the news? Consulted by M & S Listened to by Governments Pro-active. We get results Now we are even considered cool! Broaden your horizons and circle of friends. Find out more, join us, we have fun. 2nd Tuesday of the month, Ightham Village Hall. Come and join us - IGHTHAM WOMEN’S INSTITUTE call Helena on 01732 780886 - 36 - ENVIRONMENT Garden Compost Is your brown bin overflowing? Do you spend money on peat or compost for your garden? Do you want to reduce CO2 emissions? Solve all these problems by composting. It’s really not a ‘black art’, just follow this simple guide. Composting ‘happens’ when layers of 50% or less “green waste” and 50% or more “brown waste” is added alternately to a compost heap. Green Waste is grass cuttings, soft leafy plants including annual weeds, uncooked fruit & vegetable kitchen waste, manure. Where green waste is in short supply and 2m high. It can be made of untreated products such as ‘Garotta’ can be used. and unpainted wooden gravel boards, old Brown Waste is hedge trimmings and wooden pallets or corrugated metal. prunings (ideally shredded), woodchip, Stake the bin corners to support them and paper and cardboard (torn up or bridge the tops of the stakes together to shredded), dead leaves, plant stems. Where secure the structure and avoid collapse. brown waste is in short supply activators containing carbon can be used. Secure the panels on three sides to the stake uprights. Leave the panel on one side These basic principles will help ensure removable to enable access to turn the composting success: compost and to empty it. • Site the heap in a scruffy corner on an Leave a gap of about 3” between the earth base that receives some morning ground and the edge of the side panels to sun but is otherwise shaded. give wildlife access to the warm compost. • Allow drainage so the heap isn’t Start the base with a good layer of small compacted or waterlogged. But keep it branches and twigs, letting air into the moist in dry weather and let in air. heap and providing easy gaps for beneficial • Add alternately ‘green’ and ‘brown’ slow worms etc., to get into the material materials, each in ‘one go’ if possible inside the bin. rather than dribs and drabs. When the heap is full cover it with • To introduce air, turn it over periodically, corrugated metal or old roofing felt (black avoiding hibernating or hatching seasons. side up), or a thick layer of straw. Here are some ideas to help you build I hope this will help you enjoy doing your your compost bin cheaply: bit to save the environment, save your The bin should not be smaller than 1 cu wallet, and reduce CO2 emissions. metre. An ideal size is 2m wide, 1m deep Happy composting! - 37 - Tel: 01732 780176 Email: [email protected] www. wrothamcomputercare.com

07422 665572 01732 463409 - 38 - WROTHAM ALLOTMENT & GARDEN SOCIETY “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”. On the evening of Monday 28 December 2020 reports began circulating of a number of fires within the Wrotham Allotments and later, that three Fire Appliances had attended the blazes. The following morning revealed that five sheds had been burnt to the ground, others suffered fire damage and over twenty sheds had been broken into with tools stolen. The sentimental cost was the hardest to bear. One of the burnt- out sheds, with accompanying bench, had been a 60th birthday present. Another allotmenteer lost all her father’s tools only a year after he had passed away. Reports were given to Kent Police. PCSO Whilst these might be considered the Mark Thomas will be increasing his patrols. worst of times, the best of times were More reports would be welcome so that illustrated by local people like Charlie Ivy a fuller picture might emerge - if it is local who after initially raising the alarm on offenders let’s work together to identify Monday evening, set up a Crowd Funding them. page which amassed £1,255 in less than a Alongside Charlie Ivy WAGS (Wrotham week to help replace sheds and locks. Allotment and Garden Society) would like Alongside the financial donations local to thank: people offered tools, wood and services. Shaun Burbridge - SDB Garden Services It was particularly gratifying to note & Kev Holt - KH Tree & Landscape who that it was not only Wrotham residents have both offered their labour to clear and but contributions also came from the rebuild sheds destroyed; Kieron Denton, neighbouring villages of Borough Green, Dave Roots, Adrian Lee, Jenny Hill, Simon Fairseat and Ightham. Social media - Greenstreet & Rosie Child who have all Wrotham Grapevine, Borough Green offered spare tools; Eliza Ecclestone, who pinboard, Sevenoaks Women’s Forum and has offered pots of honey and Carrie Sevenoaks Mumsnet also got involved. Marlow & Dave Royce who have offered Kieron Denton, allotmenteer and ‘old’ sheds. Wrotham Parish Councillor is liaising with Now, all we have to do is catch the the Council to get a new, more secure culprits! Any information can be given to gate fitted and with St Clere’s Estate, Kent Police on 101 or anonymously to better perimeter fencing. The possibility of Crimestoppers. CCTV is also being investigated. Ken Baines - 39 - Now selling: Newspapers, Eggs, Milk, Bread, Cheese, Hams, Salads, Tea & Coffee, Hot Pies, Paninis, Home made Soup, Cakes, Handmade chocolates, Home made pickled onions, general groceries

Come and see us…… Sevenoaks Road, Ightham, TN15 9AD 01732 781134 (next to Bark & Whiskers and The Village Car wash)

- 40 - reserved specifically for travellers, who Follow a new would rely on these sanctuaries in order to make pilgrimage. When pilgrimage pilgrim path was banned in 1538, and monasteries demolished, the two practices – making In the south of England, a new pilgrim path pilgrimage and providing sanctuary is emerging. Winding through downland, for pilgrims – ceased, to lay fallow for weald and shoreline for 250 miles, the Old hundreds of years. Way from Southampton to Canterbury It is natural, then, that with the re- is derived from the oldest road map of emergence of pilgrimage in the UK, the Britain: the Gough Map, c.1360. provision of sanctuary should likewise Like the Santiago de Compostela in Spain, become common practice again. Tthe this ancient route has lain dormant for BPT has worked with 13 churches along years. the Old Way, who will offer overnight But it has been recently rediscovered by sanctuary to BPT pilgrims walking the British Pilgrimage Trust, who have used the route, in exchange for a donation the Gough Map’s key anchor waypoints (between £5-£10 per pilgrim for one (corresponding to settlements like night) to their church. In Spring 2021, Southampton, Chichester, Arundel, Battle, Covid-19 permitting, the Sanctuary Project Rye etc) to create a new pilgrimage route will launch. with ancient roots. The BPT is looking for more churches, In unison with the Old Way’s development, along the route abut also in other the British Pilgrimage Trust are also locations across Britain, to take up this reintroducing another ancient – and project. This is a fantastic opportunity: similarly dormant – tradition. not only will the project enable pilgrims The offering of ‘sanctuary’ hospitality to on lower incomes to make pilgrimage, but pilgrims along a pilgrimage route was it will also bring a new type of visitor and common practice, up until the English donation to churches. Reformation of 1534. To find out more about the BPT’s Monasteries throughout the country Sanctuary Project, visit: https:// would have had a room or building britishpilgrimage.org/sanctuary - 41 - 34 High Street, Borough Green, Kent TN15 8BJ Due to government advice the office will be closed until further notice. We can be contacted via email [email protected] or by phone 07971 563 534 Monday – Friday 10am – 3pm Follow us on Facebook where we will post any updates along with some great holiday offers and inspiration!

Keep well & Stay safe We look forward to seeing you Lisa, Jayne, very soon! Karen & Tracy

Temp tel: 07971563534 email: [email protected] www.ljtravel.co.uk

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- 43 - Everyone who makes up our community: • Ightham families, couples & singles… WHO all ages ARE WE? • Residents, visitors…connecting those who’ve moved away • EveryoneLocalEveryone businesses, who who makes makes trades up up our our& community:farms community: • Ightham families, couples & singles… WHO Everyone• Ightham who makes families, up our couples community: & singles… WHO • Ighthamallall ages families, ages couples & singles… WHO AREARE WE? WE? all ages ARE WE? An• •independentResidents, Residents, visitors…connecting visitors…connecting charity, working those with those • Residents,who’ve visitors…connecting moved away those St.who’ve Peter’swho’ve moved Church. moved away awayOur aims: WHAT •• Local •to •Local supportbusinesses,Local businesses, businesses, the trades Church & trades farms trades & &farms farms ARE WE? • to participate in Community activities An independent charity, working with St.• Peter’sAntoAn helpindependent independentChurch. you Our make aims: charity, charity, new working friends,working with & with WHAT • toSt. supportSt. Peter’s Peter’s the Church. Church Church. Our Our aims: aims: AREWHAT WE? • to socialise with, & help, each other! WHAT • to• participate •to to support support in Community the the Church Church activities AREARE WE? WE? • to• help •to to participateyou participate make new in friends,in Community Community & activities activities • to socialise with, & help, each other! • •to to help help you you make make new new friends, friends, & & • •to to socialise socialise with, with, & &help, help, each each other! other!

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Everyone who makes up our community: • Ightham families, couples & singles… WHO all ages ARE WE? • Residents, visitors…connecting those who’ve moved away • Local businesses, trades & farms

An independent charity, working with St. Peter’s Church. Our aims: WHAT • to support the Church ARE WE? • to participate in Community activities • to help you make new friends, & • to socialise with, & help, each other!

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Are you organising a Kent Science Tutor children's party? A talk? A disco? A yoga class? A Qualified, early-retired grammar school teacher DBS wedding reception? checked 1-to-1 tutoring for: If so, why not think of using the •Common entrance Science IGHTHAM VILLAGE HALL? •KS2 - KS3 Science (ages 8-13) •KS4 (GCSE/ iGCSE) Biology, Hire charges are highly Physics and Chemistry (age 13-16) •KS5 Chemistry (A level, IB, competitive, and the space is Cambridge Pre-U) perfect for all kind of gatherings. •INTENSIVE REVISION LESSONS There is also ample and well-lit Available daytime/evening/ parking. weekend, my home or yours Sevenoaks/Tonbridge/Malling areas For further information contact First assessment lesson free. Jenny Elliot T: 01732 780283 Phone: 01732 780552 E: [email protected] Mobile: 07711 940073 E: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

- 46 - DIRECTORY St Peter’s Church Rector: Rev Tim Hatwell T: 886827 M: 07799 601546 E: [email protected] Church Wardens: Ian Gordon T: 882732 Naomi Webster T: 07421 832919 Licensed Lay Minister John Webster T: 884819 Lay Readers Michelle Lawson T: 01634 240598 Bryan Harris (honorary) T: 07733 228048 Hon. Treasurer Max Robinson T: 885966 Gift Aid Secretary Max Robinson T: 885966 Safeguarding Officer Finley Lawson T: 01634 240598 PCC Secretary Barbara Smith T: 882221 Church Flowers Judy Debenham T: 882640 St Peter's Choir & Music Carol Kennedy T: 884764 Friends of St Peter’s E: [email protected] Ightham Magazine Editorial Penny Cracknell T: 07811 066253 Advertising Helena Jenkins T: 780886 Church Activities Bell Ringing Liz Harland T: 07773 642 828 Coffee Shop Jenny Webster T: 884819 Men’s Breakfast John Webster T: 884819 Parent & Toddlers Kirsty Mitcham T: 885072 Prayer Group John Webster T: 884819 Community Groups & Events Darby & Joan Susan Taylor T: 384723 Ightham Club Mark Brenta T: 882104 Ightham Gardeners’ Club Phil Barlass T: 883505 Dee Samways T: 07799 002 129 Ightham School D Sherhod, Headteacher T: 882405 Ightham Village Hall Jenny Elliot T: 780283 Ightham Scouts- Explorers Andrew Reid T: 884200 Scouts James Reid T: 789400 Cubs E: [email protected] Beavers E: [email protected] Ightham WI Mary Allwood T: 882654 PCSO Mark Thomas T: 101 (non emergencies Plaxtol History Group www.plaxtolhistory.org.uk Sports Badminton Club Nick Dennis T: 882078 Cricket Club Geoff Preston T: 01474 812594 Tom Bentall T: 07712 566772 Football Club Martyn Reardon T: 07725 896 886 Tennis Club Max Robinson T: 885966 - 47 - PARTICIPATE IN VILLAGE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Participate in village events We’reEveryone whoplanning makes up our community: an exciting and• Ighthamactivities families, couples & singles… WHO all ages ARE WE? programme• Residents, visitors…connecting those for all to enjoy We’re planningwho’ve moved away an exciting programme for all to enjoy: • Local(As businesses, we tradesemerge & farms from current restrictions (As we emerge from current restrictions, & when we can socialise again!) & when we can socialise again) An independent charity, working with St. Peter’s Church. Our aims: WHAT • to support the Church ARE WE? 2021• to participate in Community activities 2022 • to help you make new friends, & • to socialise with, & help, each other!

Summer: Celebrating our heritage – • BBQ party in the Churchyard 900 years of St. Peter’s history (sponsored) Please contact us: fb.me/FriendsofStPetersIghtham • Teddy Bears Picnic Spring: (with Zip wire) • The Lost Gardens of Ightham • Ightham Olympics (Our version • Bell ringing & Church history of Tokyo!) • Easter Egg Hunt Autumn: Summer: • Cheese & Wine, & more in G&D • Coxcombe Village Fair (featuring local produce) • Forest Meditation • Daffodil planting (900 bulbs for • Live Music Concert 900 years of history) • Christmas Tree Festival Over Winter: We’re launching a series of special interest groups; ideas so far… • Dog ‘Rambling’ • Local artists • Early Ightham Memories

Please contact us: [email protected]