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THE LYMINGE NEWSLETTER January 2000 Produced
by Community Matters HAPPY NEW YEAR!! If we had put an announcement in the Newsletter which said something on the lines of, "Come for a walk with us at a quarter to eleven at night – it will be wet and dark so wrap up well and bring a torch", how many people would have turned up…. NORMALLY?! The estimates of how many people attended the lantern procession on New Year’s Eve vary, but 500 would be fairly close. The effect of all those lanterns, in their many shapes and sizes, snaking along the streets, was truly magical. Everyone seemed to have thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere and the excitement in the minutes leading up to the turn of the millennium. A thousand thanks go to Liz Bailey and the Whole Hog Celebratory Arts Company for masterminding the lantern workshops – the last workshop held was at maximum capacity! The end of the procession was at the Church, which was consequently packed for the Watchnight service. The altar and surrounding area looked beautiful with all the candles. Although we heard midnight strike, it was only until we were out of doors that we could hear the bells ringing owing to the buzz of conversation within! Capacity crowds also saw the amazing sound and light show at the village hall (and many apologies to all those who were not able to get into the hall, particularly for the 10.00pm showing). Even those of us who participated as "mannequins" were enthralled by it. The show was devised by Steve Thomas in partnership with Adrian Willcox (plus Christopher and Jason). The effects were stunning and all of them were carefully planned, right down to the aeroplane shadows on the ceiling. You may have recognised the (both equally fearsome) early Briton and the Roman – they had been lent by the White Cliffs Experience in Dover. In between the shows, the Village Hall Committee had created a festive atmosphere for those who wished to linger and await the midnight hour – and for a brilliant party once we had reached the Millennium. They had also devised the fireworks show which could be seen from far and wide. The fire sculpture which could also be seen just after midnight was created by Liz Bailey and helpers and used the motif designed by Mrs. S. Jones, the winner of the Millennium badge competition. Mrs. Jones’s design will now be used on all publicity for future Millennium events and indeed 250 people now have a Millennium badge! All the designs submitted will be displayed at the library. It was a pity that the mists had descended because no one was able to see the Lyminge Millennium Beacon! We won the beacon a couple of weeks before Christmas. It is a gas-fired beacon just like all those you may have seen on television and is sponsored by British Gas. As it is movable, we hope to use the beacon at various sites throughout the Millennium year (and beyond). There is a huge number of people to thank for everything which happened during that wonderful evening; without their help it could not have been done, but an especial thanks goes to our new Rector, Peter Ashman, and his family for providing such a thoughtful start to Lyminge’s new year. Finally, another "first" for Lyminge! The first baby of the Millennium to be born at the William Harvey Hospital was Alex Haycock, at 3.23am, weighing 7lbs 6oz. The Lyminge Association and the Millennium Committee – and all of Lyminge, heartily congratulate his proud parents, Joanna and Keith, and send the very best wishes for the future. What a night to remember! Letters From: Mary and Leonard Bennett We would like to thank the Millennium Committee for a truly magical New Year’s Eve in Lyminge. It was lovely not to have to go out of the village and to meet up with so many friends in such a relaxed manner and enjoy part of this "Village Experience". Congratulations to all concerned for their enthusiasm, organisation and hard work. We look forward to the remainder of 2000. A happy New Year to you all.
From Mike and Pam Anderson A HUGE thank you to all those involved (visible and behind the scenes) in making New Year so special. We are sure there are a large number who would wish to express their thanks. Well done everyone!
From: David Whitethread I would like to thank all of my clients in the Lyminge, Etchinghill and Postling area for their continued support since 1987. I thank you not only for your business, but also your friendship. We have lots of good fun times as well as serious, deep and meaningful discussions. all of which are part of our friendship. I hope that our business relationship and friendship will be continued well into the new Millennium. I wish you all a very happy, healthy and peaceful New Year. Once again, thank you.
From: J.M.G. Anderson Open letter to the Parish Council Planning Committee’ On behalf of all the 20 or so objectors to a recent application for a replacement house in the village, I would like to thank you for a least taking the time to listen to our appeals and concerns on the matter. Which is more than can be said of the Shepway District Council Planning Committee. It is also a great pity that despite your three separate objections to this scheme on valid Planning Policy issues, Shepway Council Planning Officers overruled you and decided for the developer. And, I will add that the motion to do so at that planning meeting was proposed on a totally irrelevant point. ‘To the Villagers’’ It is very important to most that the village retains its identity and over development is not allowed. There will, of course, be infill or backland development from time to time, but we should not have to suffer for the gain of another. Our houses, lives and privacy are very important, so don’t let architects and developers ruin these for us. The lessons to be learnt are numerous, but as a start; look closely at the Planning Application, check it for accuracy, are the dimensions of the new and adjacent properties correct, talk to the Parish Councillors, and, if necessary, send your objections, on valid planning issues, to the Assistant Director (Planning) at Shepway District Council. Remember, they are our servants, paid for by our rates and not the reverse! Keep up the good work, Parish Councillors, and don’t get disheartened on Planning Issues when you get overruled. Shepway District Council will listen eventually.
From: Constance Buttler Congratulations to Lyminge Dramatic Society on its production of the pantomime, "Babes in the Wood" – surely its best ever! How fortunate we are to have such a splendid Dramatic Society in Lyminge!
From: Ella Phillips To all who pass 21 Silverlands Road on their way to and from the school, a very warm thank you for the quick response I have received from you over the past six months or so, to my request to have a letter posted. Your remarks, "Any time" frees me from feeling I am a nuisance. And to the grand teenagers who willingly retrace their steps with a letter, but when thanked reply, "It’s our pleasure", a special thank you. I close the door empty-handed, but with a spirit up-lifted. I do not know any of you good folk, but when I can get our on my own I hope you will make yourself known to me – I shall still be wearing protection on my left elbow! A very happy and stress-free New Year to you all.
From: Pam Wooding, Chairman of the Management Committee of Lyminge Pre-School Playgroup. To Whom It May Concern: Over the last few years, much effort has been put in by parents and friends (past and present) of Lyminge Pre-School Playgroup into raising extra funds in order to make improvements to our Playgroup garden. The initial work was undertaken during the summer holidays and the children returned for the start of the autumn term with the added treat of a tidy and more manageable garden. In fact we were so inspired by the work, we decided to spend a little more and buy spring bulbs and some small shrubs. We were a little disappointed, therefore, when we noticed that someone else had admired our garden so much, they nabbed one of our small conifers! We can’t see any way of making the garden more secure, but we would be really grateful if any dog walkers etc. who use The Green and others who use the Village Hall, Scout Hit and Bowls Club, could keep a vigilant eye open for us when we are not there. Thank you very much. Dates for the Diary AT LYMINGE LIBRARY DURING
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY Sunday 13 February Saturday 26 February Notices Volunteers needed for the millennium toad migration project Are you interested in conserving the wild life of the Elham Valley and being part of a local conservation effort that will make a real difference? The Elham Valley supports a common toad colony in Ashley Wood near the Beachborough round-about that uses the Beachborough ponds to spawn each spring. To achieve their instinctive goal they have to cross the hazardous (former) B2065. For many this is certain death, for the increasing use of this road by local commuters is proving to be the death knell of the colony. What can you do? Please volunteer to help in a project to protect the colony from further devastation and almost certain extinction. This year a concerted effort to halt the carnage is being launched by local conservationists, the While Cliffs Countryside Project and the Shepway District Council. For the project to be totally successful we requ-ire volunteers on Sunday 6 February 2000 and through-out the migration in either February or March. If you want to be part of this unique project never before attempted in Kent, or require further information, then please contact Dave Huggins on 863203 at Ash Cottage, 1 The Orchids, Etchinghill. Sibton Park Cricket Club 100 Club Winners: We wish all our Members Peace and Happiness in the New Millennium. Age Concern, Elham Rural We would like to wish everybody in Lyminge a happy and peaceful New Year 2000. For enquiries concerning the Day Centre, ring Sheila Woods on 862364. Art Course at Etchinghill Come and join in the Mixed Media Experience. Have fun (mixing) with watercolour, pastels, acrylics, oils, pen and ink, crayons, etc. and learn to produce interesting and unusual effects and textures to create attractive compositions. A four-week course will run on Thursday evenings at Etchinghill Village Hall, commencing Thursday 20th January 7.30pm-9.30pm. Tutor – Carol Stump. £2.50 per session. Interested? Contact 863175. Etchinghill Residents’ Association Update since the AGM Wall around Meridan Park: In the opinion of English Heritage this stock brick wall with pilasters at regular intervals, build 1835-6, does not have ‘group value’ as the original buildings have been demolished and it does not, on its own, possess sufficient interest, either architecturally or historically, to merit listing. Electricity Cuts: Mr. B. Williamson, Customer Relations Engineer, wrote a very long letter of explanation. These are just two short extracts: "Underground cables will always be vulnerable to third party damage from contractors,… vibration and subsidence, whilst overhead lines will always be vulnerable to very high voltage strikes from lightning, contact with windborne materials during gales, and damage from birds and squirrels which occasionally make contact." "We do monitor the performance of all our circuits and take necessary remedial action should any underlying causes of failures be identified. Whilst it may not be apparent from your recent experience, Seeboard are continuing to invest large sums of money to improve the quality of supply to all our customers. Badminton Why travel further afield? Come and get fitter in the New Year at our Badminton Club in the village. For details ring Sue Wilson (862302) or Carole Challis (862817). RAF Association We are hoping for an extra special response to our annual Wings Appeal in this, the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Britain year. The Appeal will open with our usual stall and raffle at the Charities Coffee Morning on February 26th. Please remember us if you have any unwanted gifts or surplus items which we can sell. Call 862240 for collection any time before the 26th. Our thanks to all who have supported us in the past and we look forward to meeting you again. Lyminge Babies and Toddlers We meet every Tuesday during school term time at the Methodist Church Hall, Church Road, Lyminge. Come along any time between 9.00am and 11.30am. ALL BABIES, TODDLERS AND CARERS WELCOME FOR PLAY AND COFFEE £1.20 a session (1st session free) ADVANCE NOTICE SATURDAY 26 FEBRUARY The annual Charities’ Coffee Morning, hosted by the Lyminge Association will be held in the Lyminge Village Hall from 9.30am to 12 noon. The Association’s Sec-retary will be contacting all those charities which have previously had a stall, but if your charity would also like to book a stall, please contact Mary Bennett on 863057. Lyminge Methodist Church A warm welcome to any who wish to share our family worship at 11.00am each Sunday. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity January 16 United Service at the Parish Church January 23 United Service at the Methodist Church followed by lunch (booking essential). Women’s Fellowship every Monday 2.30pm – 3.30pm from January 10th. Why not join us? Lyminge Pre-school Playgroup A safe and welcoming place for your child to play, learn and make friends, supervised by trained and experienced staff. The Playgroup aims to help children make a smooth transition to school. Sessions are 9.00am - 12.00pm, term-time weekdays, at Lyminge Village Hall and cost £4.00 (four-year olds receive Government funding to cover the cost). Children can start at 2½ years old. The Playgroup has to meet standards set by KCC Social Services and OFSTED, and is a member of the Pre-School Learning Alliance. More information from Lynn Hussey on 862831. Lost Property Box! A pair of leather gloves and (separately) a black knitted sports hat were found after the New Year’s Eve celebrations at the village hall. Contact Linda Willcox on 862699 to claim either of these items. A pheasant broach found in Greenbanks and a tusk-shaped earring for a pierced ear can be reclaimed from the Post Office. HOLIDAY PROPERTY BOND MANAGEMENT LTD. SITUATIONS VACANT Applications are invited for the forthcoming positions at Sibton Park to commence in January 2000: Domestic Assistants Full and part-time positions available Please apply in the first instance in writing, giving details of past employment and relevant experience to: Mr. Peter Eustace, Holiday Property Bond Management Ltd., HPB House, Old Station Road, Newmarket, Suffolk. CB8 8EH Reports ETCHINGHILL WI It was decided at our Christmas meeting to send greetings and flowers to two members who had long-term illnesses. Our Speaker, Mrs. Edwards, amused members when telling about her experiences as a "pub" landlady. A bumper raffle was followed by a delicious tea provided by the committee. After being wished the "Compliments of the Season" by our President, members departed rejoicing! Competition winners: 1. Mrs. D. Cross, 2. Mrs. M. Spring, 3. Mrs. J. Howard. Date for the Diary Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 18 January 2000. New members are always welcome. Gardening Column Gardening Tips for January Do some gentle walking and a few exercises daily to get fit for the gardening season ahead. On bad days stay indoors and real all the gardening books you got for Christmas!
S. Wiles, Gardener General garden tidying. Hedge cutting. Fruit tree pruning. Tree loping. Small jobs undertaken. Mowers and shears sharpened and set – collection in the village FREE. ‘Phone 862442.
Whiteways Nursery Bruce and Shirley Pascoe,
Stowting, Ashford. TN25 6BS Rest and Recuperation
Business Column All phone numbers without STD codes are in
the +44 (0)1303 area.
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