209 July 2020

WESTWELL EYET H

E

The Wheel will be open as usual from

Saturday 4th of July!

Tuesday 4pm-8pm (Drinks only)Wednesday and Thursday 12noon - 10pm

Friday and Saturday 12noon - 12 midnightSunday 12noon - 8pm

Strict rules will be in place to abide with the Government guidelines and bookings (inside tables only) to be taken!

Please bear with us if we have to change things around as government guidance to pubs and restaurants changes.

We are closing down the grocery deliveries now

Contact Leah or James on 01233 712223 or at info@thewheelinnwestwell.co.uk

Farewell to CecilyBelow left:- Heath Spotted Orchid taken by on Hothfield Common by Ian RickardsBelow right:- Bee Orchid taken locally by Margery Thomas

From the Editor’s DeskWe’re Back!

I am sure you would like to join me in sending condolences to Susan, Steve and their daughters on the death of Cecily, an end of an era. See page 5The Wheel is opening again on 4th July, see back page / facebook, for details. James is not selling groceries any more, but concentrating on the pub.Godinton Garden is opening from 1- 6pm but you must book, preferably on line but if that’s not possible by ‘phone. Page 7Danger of alcohol sanitiser left in hot cars is explained on page 19.Those who advertise in the Eye and those who pay for a copy of the Eye sent by post will have an extra three months added onto their renewable date.No calendar yet but see page 12 for one date

STOP PRESS: I was just about to send this off to press when I was told of the sad death of Jean Pepperal on Thursday 25th July, aged 93. Sincere condolences to her daughters, Anna in Newcastle and Jane in Australia

Carolyn Thorneloe

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The views of any contributor to this publication may not necessarily be those of the editor and team, nor can the Westwell Eye accept any responsibility in connection with any companies or organisations mentioned or any advertiser.Correspondence to: Carolyn Thorneloe, Gaoler's Retreat, 5, Faversham Road, Lenham, Maidstone, Kent ME17 2PN.Tel: 01622 859376, Email: westwelleye@gmail.com

COPY DEADLINE - 20th of the monthADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN THE WESTWELL EYE

Classified ads from £3 p/issue - Business block ads from £60 p/year. Prices include free design, illustration and layout.

Copy & payment to be received by the 20th of each month.Payable to:- The Westwell Eye, either direct to bank or cheque

Sue Wood, 14, Sandyhurst Lane TN25 4NSWould you like to receive the Westwell Eye but don’t live in the area?

You can receive it every month by post. For an annual subscription, simply send the editor your name and address and pay £8.55 to Sue Wood, cheque payable to The Westwell Eye

Printed by Print Junction - 01233 624462 - info@print-junction.co.uk - Brunswick Road Cobbswood Industrial Estate, Cobbs Wood House, Ashford TN23 1EP

Incident Update Reference: HSW/QUICKSHARE/011 Date of issue: 26/05/2020 Review date: N/A

Document Owner: H&S Team Approved by Head of Safety, Strategy and Policy Version 1.0

Health, Safety and Wellbeing Safety Quick Share

This quick share is to alert all colleagues to the potential fire risk in vehicles, caused by alcohol-based hand sanitiser. We have received a number of reports of hand sanitiser being the cause of fires when left in vehicles in the hot weather the UK is currently experiencing. The alcohol hand sanitiser is becoming heated resulting in flammable vapours being released. These vapours are reaching their ‘flashpoint’ and then ignite in normal air conditions, setting fire to flammable components within the car. Product Details

All alcohol-based hand sanitiser products

What you need to do

Remove all alcohol-based hand sanitiser products from vehicles when they are not occupied, do not leave hand sanitiser in un-attended vehicles.

You should continue to use hand sanitiser as part of your hygiene routine where you cannot use soap & water. Remember: hand hygiene is one of the most effective methods to stop the spread of COVID-19 following indirect contact (picking up the virus up by touching contaminated surfaces and objects).

For more information, please speak to your Regional Health and Safety Specialist.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitiser – Vehicle Fires

This picture shows damage to a car as result of hand sanitiser fire

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Age UK 642094Ashford Volunteer Bureau 665535Ashford Volunteer Car Service 633219Bees (swarming) Andy Bithell 740650 / 07933892413Borough Councillor: Larry Krause 643497CAB 626185Carers Support Group 664393Childline Freephone 0800 1111Cinema: Picture house 0871 9025747 Cineworld 0871 2208000Citizens’ Advice Bureau 626185Cruse Bereavement Counselling 878225Doctors (Charing) 714490 (Hayesbank) 624642Dog Warden 01233 330340Hospital (William Harvey) 633331 CROP 01622 851200Library (Ashford) 03000413131 (Charing) 713177MS Therapy Centre 01227 470876NHS Direct 0845 4647NSPCC 0800 800500Parish Hall Booking 01233 712016 doriscackett@btinternet.comParish Council (clerk, Sue Wood) 623902Parish Office 07395 910317 email : calehillpcc@gmail.comPilgrims’ Hospice (Admin) 504100(Patient enquiries) 504112PCC Secretary (Heather Lister) 712981Police (rural matters only 07980978202Rector see Parish office VacantSamaritans 610000 Shopmobility 621196 Solicitor (Thorneloe & Co.) 01622 859416 Victim Support 0845 30 30 900 Water Supplies Queries 0333 000 0002Water Leak Line 0333 000 3330Wealden Wheels 01233 840000Westwell Community Website: http://www.westwellpc.kentparishes.gov.uk/

Useful Contacts

CHIROPODISTCHRISTINE GRIFFITHS

MSSCh MBChAHPC reg

FOOT CLINICMon - Sat including evenings

Home visits availableTel:01233 664702

07958 328525

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Westwell Players

This month members learnt of the passing of Cecily Hayward, who single handily manned our box office for many years. No one would ever go to Cis for a ticket without money in hand. Our fond memories will stay with us and our deepest condolences are with Cecily’s family.

We are enjoying our ‘zoom’ sessions every Tuesday evening with Neil being kind enough to copy the chosen script for all those less at home with modern technology. He then chases all over Kent to deliver to us – he needs a medal! We read a pantomime in June called ‘Adventure in Pantoland’ which was most unusual including about 5 of the traditional pantos but cleverly woven together, we had a lot of laughs along the way which was fun. Maybe our offering for November 2021? Who knows!

The Pitt stop - our new container that matches so beautifully with the oil tank on the village green, is no further forward although we have had some very kind offers to start on kitting it out from Gordon and Dougal, and Clive for the electrics and hope to have some more positive news by August!! Most of the clothes and props have been given a new lease of life and are ready to be installed in their new home. We could do with some more plastic boxes, please let me know if you have any to spare that you would donate to the Players??? Once we are organised we are hoping to hire some of the costumes out for Fancy Dress Parties etc., at very good rates of course!!

We would love to have some new members to swell out ranks so please let me know if you are interested or know of anyone who would like to try their hand either on stage or helping with management back stage. We would like a new Producer too so please dial 01233 714241 andspeak to me, Mary Anne Pitt if you know of a possible new recruit??

We have a lot of fun and learning lines is very good for the brain (it also helps keep dementia at bay!) It would be particularly good to have some more input from the village itself and it is a lot easier at the end of an evening, to go home to someone really local!

I do hope you are all keeping well and and enjoying the fact that we have a little more freedom now. Looking forward to some real hugs soon!!

Mary Anne Pitt

AZ CARING SERVICES

For all aspects of care and support work, Daily and Live In

please contact Arthur and his team on 07552 766428

email: arthurzvik@hotmail.co.uk.Excellent local references

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Thorneloe & Co.Solicitors

Now part of Hallett & CoBased in Lenham, we provide a

friendly, high quality, personal service tailored to your specific needs. For you and your family….. For you and your business…. * Wills, Probate and Tax Planning Agriculture * Trusts and Estate Administration * Commercial Property * Lasting Powers of Attorney * Buying or Selling a Business * Family Law and Employment Law * Business Contracts / Finance * Buying and Selling Your Home * Employment Law * Court of Protection * Dispute Resolution / Property * Dispute Resolution / Property Liigation Litigation * Personal Injury

01622 859 416 Lenham@Hallettandco.co.uk www.thorneloe.co.uk St Mary’s House The Square Lenham Kent ME17 2PH Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority Registered Number 50485

Country Funerals

Ashford’s only independantFuneral Directors

For a caring 24 hour servicecontact Leah Hutchinson

01233 71222207708407229

Pre-paid funeral plan availableYonderway, Westwell, Ashford, Kent TN25 4LE

Suzie’s Care Service

Dog Walk Feed all Animals

Personal Care Over Night Care

Personal & House Sit Excellent Local References. CRB Checked

07581 013899 Suzieusher12@gmail.com

JAYO Competitive prices

Aggregate and building supplies

Building sand, sharp sand, MOT type 1,Road planings, crushed concrete, ballast,

shingle, top soil, turf and mulch

Free local deliveryvisit our website for more information

www.jayotransport.co.uk01233 637158 / 07801227884

info@jayotransport.co.ukall materials are delivered loose tipped

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Cecily HaywardThere is a wealth of village history in the lives of people who settled in Westwell for over fifty years.Peter Hayward was a plumber at Headley’s in Ashford. He married Cecily. From Headley’s they rented their bungalow facing the village hall and ultimately bought it outright. That house is still a village landmark. Their daughter Sue now lives there with her husband Steve Woods.In my first few years in Westwell, when out walking with my children and the dog, I would often see Cecily on her way to Court Lodge, where she was housekeeper for Mr and Mrs Hollis. After having her daughter she would also take Sue to work with her. Peter was our first plumber in Westwell, and was always very quick to arrive in an emergency.Peter and Cecily were keen supporters of village activities. They attended the Safari Supper, Harvest Supper and Christmas Bazaar. Cecily also organised the Whist Drive (whose rules I pretended to understand). She would always knock at your door to collect donations, even when she needed a walking stick. All these efforts supported the church. Cecily joined the WI and was member for fifty-five years, until she and Peter began to need care. They moved to Ashford in 2015.Cecily was a Darts player and was captain of the village team. She organised the Bat and Trap, the Jumble Sale, and the Tombola for the annual Fête. She grew lovely dahlias in her front garden.Some of these always made it to the church Flower Festivals in which she took part.Cecily also organised the Seniors’ Christmas Party. Helped by Jean Sheepwash and Doris Cackett, and their children, she would spend months buying and wrapping presents for the guests: a very patient woman.Later, she became keeper of the Village Hall keys, and took charge of Hall bookings: a strategic job. She would take all bookings with a smile. She made sure the keys were left in the box at the side of their house; everyone obeyed that rule.Sue Wood, our Parish Clerk, liaised with her on reporting pot holes in the roads. I wonder how many people are still doing that.She worked for, and was companion to, Mrs Hollis while the latter was writing the ‘Westwell Chronicles’: a well-researched history. Cecily was deeply loyal to Mrs Hollis, and it was a comfort for her to have Cecily there.Cecily died on Wednesday June 10th 2020, just over a year after her husband, Peter. Her funeral was organised by Country Funerals.

Blackcurrant CordialIngredients300g golden caster sugar zest and juice 2 lemons 450g blackcurrants

MethodPut the sugar in a large saucepan with 300ml water. Bring to a simmer then add the lemon zest and juice followed by the blackcurrants. Cook the mixture over a medium heat until the blackcurrants start to soften and burst.Pour the mixture through a sieve lined with muslin into a clean, heatproof jug then transfer to sterilised bottles. Keeps in the fridge for up to 1 month.Serve approx. 25ml of cordial per 100ml sparkling or still water, or dilute to taste.

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Charing History Society - Henry Vlll Visits CharingHenry Vlll visited Charing 500 years ago on May 23rd 1520 on his way to the Field of Cloth ofGold, 8 miles south of Calais in English-held territory, to meet Francis l for two weeks of feasting, jousting and good fellowship which took place between the 9th and 24th of June. His route took him from his palace at Greenwich, via Otford and Maidstone, to Charing where he stayed overnight at the Archbishop’s Palace. He brought with him an entourage of some 5000. Henry himself stayed in the Palace, his knights in other lodgings in the Palace grounds, in the High Street and elsewhere in Charing; the rest pitched their tents, of which there were some 2800, in local fields. The moment of Henry’s arrival in the Market Place in Charing was reimagined in the 1960s by a local artist, David Embry, who, at the time, was lodging at the very top of a house at 45 High Street. From his room he had a good view of the Market Place down to the church and the Archbishop’s Palace. Climbing out of the top window one day, he sat precariously on the roof, feet wedged in the gutter, and drew the scene illustrated here; the subsequent watercolour won first prize (£100) in an exhibition, Historic Events in Kent, in 1965.By 1520 the people of Charing were well used to hosting the monarch as both Henry and his father had visited on several occasions. Henry brought cooks and kitchen staff with him and there would have been Charing Palace staff in attendance, too. Much of the food eaten that day was procured locally; they ate poultry - hens, duck and other birds - and, probably, fish from the coast or from the Archbishop’s ponds, situated either on what is now Clewards Meadow or the lake in the grounds of the Moat House. Henry and the knights drank wine, the rest beer from the Archbishop’s buttery and local hostelries, one of which might have been in the High Street on the site of what is now Elizabethan Court, formerly The Swan. Henry’s total bill for his overnight stay in Charing amounted to the equivalent of £29,500.Henry revisited the Archbishop’s Palace later on in his reign, finally ‘persuading’ Archbishop Cranmer to give it to him in 1545. The Palace subsequently remained royal property through the reigns of Elizabeth l and James l, until the royal connection was finally severed in 1635 by Charles l, who sold it to Sir Robert Honywood of Pett Place for a working farm, as it has continued to be until this day.The 2020 Charing Village Summer Fête was to have had a Tudor theme but, because of Covid-19, has had to be cancelled. It is, however, hoped that a celebration of Henry Vlll’s historic visit to the village will be held at some future date.Celia Jennings from the Charing and District Local History Society has produced a superb booklet about the Field of Cloth of Gold, starting with Henry’s journey through Kent to Calais from his palace at Greenwich via Otford, Maidstone, Charing, Canterbury and Dover. It is fully illustrated in colour, 28 pages in length and costs £5 plus £1.64 postage.It is available from: enquiries@charinghistory.co.ukor direct from Celia Jennings: 01233 712480 / 07860 483292, celia.jennings1@btinternet.comPhotograph page 12

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Airport Transfer & Chauffeur Service

ETM CarsCompetitive Prices

Professional ServiceSafe Comfortable Journey

Bottled Water Provided

01233 629551info@etmcars.co.ukwww.etmcars.co.uk

ANP Security

Supply, install and maintain security systems, including

Intruder AlarmsCCTV

Free no obligation survey and quotation

Andy Peddle 01233 224874 - Westwell

Kilby‛s Chimney SweepAll Types of Fires and Stoves

Swept Using Brush and Vacuum

Pots, Cowls and BirdguardsSupplied and Fitted.

07756 007428 / 01233 840948

ICS Registered - Fully InsuredCertificates Issued

1st Charing Scout Group

.The lockdown has been a difficult time for scouting nationally and that has certainly been so for us. We have lost our annual camps as well as our regular meetings. We have also had to cancel several fundraising events including the 2020 colour run. Nevertheless our leaders are resilient and we are doing our best to keep going and be prepared for when we can meet face to face again:Beavers have had regular Zoom meetings and are working towards several badges.Cubs are also getting together on Zoom. They have been set homework to help them complete badges.Scouts are being set challenges every week.As a group we all attended a Zoom meeting for St George’s Day. We all worked towards the Mayhem badge. For this they had to ‘camp’ out, either inside or outside sometime during May and help prepare their own food. They are now working on a more challenging badge, ‘The Great Indoors’. I’ll let you know how they get on.Well done to all the leaders who are making this happen, all the parents for their support and especially to all the young people.

Many thanks Terry ListerGroup Scout Leader 1st Charing Scout GroupTutt Hill Farm Cottage, Westwell, Ashford, Kent TN26 1AH 0774 8818660 / 01233 712981

Making the DifferenceA different and innovative approach to Well-being for

People living with Dementia, using our Model of Care Focusing on enabling our clients to continue as empowered participants and

not just inactive recipients of care* Promoting safe and independent living * Rehabilitation-Goal focused early interventions * Delivering personalised care * Companionship and respite *Mood management and monitoring * Therapeutic interventions

* Cognitive functional and environmental assessments * Support and assistance with Activities of daily living (ADLs)

Paula Larter Occupational Therapist BSc. Hons MRCOT01233 521818 / 07391485101 paula@makingthedifference-kent.com

www.makingthedifference-kent.com

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David FarnfieldExcellent Westwell reference

availablewww.davidfarnfield.com

07710 130275/01233 750450

High Quality Painter and Decorator

for all your domestic needs

PARISH HALL RENTAL

Rates:Weekdays £10 per hour Weekends £15 per hourTable and chair hire also available (to take away)

Please contact:Doris Cackett (01233) 712016doriscackett@btinternet.com

Would you like to hire the Westwell Hall for your next event? Equipped with:-

Full Catering Facilities,Stage with lighting and Piano

French PolishingFurniture & Antique

RestorationsSome Upholstery Repairs

Old Furniture RefurbishedGordon Forster

35 years experience

01233 71266507973440309

www.rga-forster.co.ukgordon@rga-forster.co.uk

B & B in WestwellBay Tree Lodge -

at Glebe Cottage TN25 4LQ

Closed until further noticefor more information

Ring Geraldine Bortoli01233 713919/07852 271886

Westwell Community Watch Scheme

Police We are now at a reduced state of lock-down but we have been reminded by the Police and RSPCA that a return to a new “normal” can be as traumatic for our pets as it is for us. You may have changed your routine with your dog or other pet. Your pet may be getting more

or less of things than before depending on the changes in your schedule. Changes in routine are something pets can adapt to but it’s important to think ahead and begin to make gradual

changes before you change your routine again. Get dogs into a routine as close as possible to the one they’ll again experience when

restrictions are lifted and help them spend more time alone again by encouraging them to rest in their own bed or keeping them in a separate room while you do something else.

All cats are individuals, and some may enjoy human companionship and time with people more than others. Ensure your cat has hiding places and elevated resting places which help

relieve stress and offer them a safe place to hide. Even if your cat isn’t a fuss loving, attention seeking lap cat they can still get stressed from your return to work so take time to make the

transition as smooth and stress free as possibleOur life may become a lot busier again after lockdown but it’s important to ensure you still

spend quality time with your pet every day. After all they have put up with you being around for the last three months!

Boredom is also fuelling incidents of mindless vandalism with a number of “odd” incidents being reported locally overnight. Garden furniture moved or broken, plants damaged etc. An inexpensive solar powered PIR light is a good deterrent, add to that a dashcam type camera

and you can get yourself a simple, but effective, security system. For something more, seek professional advice.

On-line shopping and changing financial support mechanisms are encouraging the scammers to find new ways to take your money directly or, by stealing your identity, by stealth. So, remember NO ONE who is legitimate will EVER ask for your password or card numbers.

If in doubt do not proceed. So, my message is unchanged. Stay vigilant.

If you see a crime in progress call 999, if you have a crime or incident to report use 101 or the on-line facilities including Country Eye.

Community Watch Make sure you have your neighbours telephone numbers, and they have yours, so that we can

all keep in contact with one another and we have someone to call in an emergency! Remember you can also contact any one of these organisations for help and support:

Age UK 0800 678 1602 Asthma UK 0300 222 5800 BHF 0300 330 3311Diabetes UK 0345 123 2399 Mind 0300 123 3393 Scope 0808 800 3333

The Silver Line 0800 470 8090 Don’t Forget: If you see anything suspicious call 999 (if a crime in progress), call 101 or

report it on-line. Use Country Eye and Farm Watch . Be aware of on-line and phone Scams

westwell.community.watch@gmail.com Keep Vigilant & HEALTHY - Tony Bartlett – WCWS Co-ordinator

Godinton Houseand Gardens

HOUSE CLOSEDGarden Opening

1 - 6 pmBooking Essential

internet (or ‘phone)01233 643854 www.godintonhouse.co.uk.

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Letter to the Parish EtcOur decision to try to find somewhere to live in Kent led us to Charing, not so

many miles from places where we had lived some years ago. What we did not know was how amazingly varied the walks are here. The lockdown with its permitted daily exercise provided such an opportunity to explore.

With our trusty Ordnance survey map we have been able to explore the local footpaths, going a little further each week. Which way shall we go today, we would ask ourselves. We have climbed up to the top of the North Downs along the path through the barley crop and found our way back down either via the Chalk Pits or by the Windmill. We have walked along the Pilgrim’s Way to Westwell and up around the Gliding Field and back down through the ancient wooded track near the quarry. We have walked to Warren Street of an evening and on one occasion seen an owl flit silently under the trees before returning to Charing along the Pilgrim’s Way. We have even walked to Stalisfield Green and to Stalisfield church. Over these months we have walked through the woods, through carpets of, firstly, wood anemones, then bluebells and now bracken and brambles as we wait to find out where the best blackberries are to be found.

It may be that, by the time you read this, lockdown will have been eased further. Most of us will be faced with an ever-widening array of choices, although some of us may still be unable to venture far. Our choices may relate to work, to the worrying situation of whether our job will still be there after furloughing ceases, and whether we can afford to continue to live in the same place as before. The choice may relate to health, to family, to travel or to when it is possible to get together again for whatever reason. Which choice should we make? The closure of our churches has been a great sadness for many of us. Wondering whether to watch a service of worship on the television, on Youtube, locally through Zoom or simply reading our bible alone has been a dilemma. Jesus says, “Follow me!”. But which way? How do we know if it is God’s way or our own way? A challenge for our prayers is to have an honest conversation with God to explore our own deepest longings and needs and to discover God’s desires for us as well. A little while ago, I found a wonderful book by John Ortberg, entitled “All the places to go; how will you know?” He describes how God frequently opens doors and invites us to walk through into the unknown. We may hesitate, we may make excuses but so often we find that, even over a long period of waiting, we still sense an overwhelming urge to follow the way that God is calling us. Few people have ever regretted going through a door which God has opened for them.

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Coffee at The Wheel InnNO Coffee at The Wheel, until further notice.

WAGS – Westwell Art GroupNO art group u ntil further notice

Westwell Book Club Zoom meetingThree books were discussed all by Joanna Trollope. She has written over 17 books and started under a pseudonym ‘Caroline Harvey’ which was a combination of her parent’s names. Her novels prior to the mid eighties were historical and less successful than her later works. Many reviewers have classed her as a writer of ‘aga sagas’, writing mainly for and about Middle England :middle class families and the dilemmas for women coping with work and family. As she ‘matured’ she began to delve into more contemporary issuesand her popularity soared.The group were free to choose any of her works. Mary Anne had read ‘A Soldier’s Wife’ and loved it and it was her suggestion that got us reading. That book was also read by Liz, Margery and June S and they liked it. The language flows easily and the narrative is gripping. This is the story of a wife dealing with being uprooted continually. Something June S had to deal with as a child. She even remembered wearing wooden clogs to school when the family lived in Preston. Margery also enjoyed the book . Some subjects were dealt with superficially, such as UK involvement inthe war in Afghanistan and the difficulties of returning soldiers in dealing with civilian life and the pressure on army wives to conform and subordinate their careers, to name just a few. The story has a young teenager who shines with her courage and determination.Another novel is ‘Daughters-in-Law’. This is, as predicted, about the relationship between the mother of two sons and her sons’ wives. There

is an uneasy alliance for some families. In this novel there is a patriarchal father and his wife. The mother has dedicated her life to her family and finds it hard to let go of her control over her family with daughters-in-law who cannot warm to her. In the story the younger women are not blameless as one says that her mother should be the ‘first grand mother’ when she is expecting a baby. The story takes place in Suffolk with beautiful seascapes and birdlife. Chris thought the moral of the story is to encourage sons to put their families first, so it is not a shock when it happens!The third novel was one of Trollope’s earlier works. June read ‘Parson Harding’s Daughter’. The writer was born in the house of her grandfather’s Rectory, and her father had been away for war service in India....so perhaps this is semi autobiographical. This Parson had five children who all looked very plain though he and his wife were rather attractive. His wife died and his eldest daughter took over the running of the family matters. The younger sister fell in love with a young man who left for India. This was in the 18th Century with no email or texts. She had no news from him so she dedicated herself to helping poorer villagers. She helps people who have scarlet fever and at her own home her father contracts it and dies of it. She is blamed for the event. She eventually sails to India in the hope of marrying her old love but then realises he is no longer suitable or attractive to her. Very assertive for those times. But as she is penniless she marries him. Her husband later dies and that releases her to find another good man whom she marries and they move back to England and live happily.Our next book is Graham Greene’s Travels with my Aunt.

Revd. Marian Bond

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Dear Resident Every year throughout the spring and summer KCC Highways & Transportation receive numerous complaints regarding trees, hedges and other vegetation, which overhang the highway from private property. It would be greatly appreciated if you could ensure that any trees and hedges that are bordering the Highway are maintained and cut back to your boundary which would greatly benefit all Highway users. This will help us all keep the highway safe and prevent the need for KCC writing to you requesting that you cut back your vegetation. If the boundary of your property borders the footway, then please be aware that:The full width of the footway/pavement must be available for use by pedestrians. As well, there must be a minimum height clearance over the footway of 2.1 metres/7 feet for any vegetation. If the boundary of your property borders the carriageway, then please be aware that:If you have vegetation that overhangs into the road, there must be a minimum height clearance of 5 metres/16 feet to accommodate buses and HGVs that may use the road. If your property is rural, then vegetation should be 0.45 metres/1.5 feet behind the edge of the road and all signs need to be kept clear of foliage. Also, we would ask that you pay special attention to your trees, hedges and vegetation if your property is on or near a junction, and/or inside the bend of the road, to maintain maximum visibility for road users. Thank you for the time taken to read this article and we wish you a pleasant summer.Ashford Highways Operations Team Kent County Council

PlansA virtual meeting of the Parish Council was held on 11th June to discuss the following planning applications:20/00606/AS 3 Kingsland Lane Retrospective application for erection of single-storey flat roof rear extension - No objection20/00607/AS 3 Kingsland Lane Retrospective application for single storey timber summer house - No objection19/01688/CONA/AS Swinford Cottage Discharge of conditions - Support The Parish Council objected to the amended application for 18/01554/AS - Sand pit to the south of 200 and east of 198 Sandyhurst Lane, Boughton Aluph Outline planning application with details of access for developer-led custom-build residential development of up to 9 dwellings [the original application was for 18 dwellings]Additional objection comments have been submitted on 20/00217/AS Bridgewood Farm, Watery Lane - Stationing of 5 mobile homes for use by Gypsy Traveller familyThe following were supported by the Parish Council and have been approved by the Borough Council:20/00377/AS Nash Court, Watery Lane Retrospective change-of-use and conversion of part of an agricultural lean-to for a biomass boiler and wood store20/00462/AS Heskyn, 11 Sandyhurst Lane, Westwell Proposed side and rear extensions; loft conversion.

Church Matters July All church services are currently by Zoom.Instructions for Zoom1.Make a cup of tea and grab a big plate-full of cake and biscuits!2.Click on the relevant link from your email or The Calehill- Westwell website3. Follow the instructions on screen4. When you have the option to ‘Join a meeting’ or ‘Sign in’ click on ‘Join a meeting’5. Enter the meeting ID given in the invitation below.6. Enter the password given in the invitation below when prompted.7. Do not check the boxes8. When prompted click ‘Join with video’9. When prompted click ‘Join with Computer Audio’10. If you are 2 people using different devices then you need to be in different rooms.Traditional Service:-There is a traditional service at 9.30 on Sundays run by the Reader Mark Taylor Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88959016185?pwd=SjhnM2ZrUlE2RjlQVHNOTGpTLzl3Zz09

Meeting ID: 889 5901 6185Password: Sunday

Informal Service:-There is an informal service run by the Cornerstone team at 11am every Sunday. Contact Megan Austen for details. See details on Calehill Westwell website. Additional Church ActivitiesEco Church and Do not forget ‘walking church’ on Saturday! See Calehill - Westwell website for details.Collections continue for the Food Bank. Donations can be left in Charing Church porch

Messy is not currently active. There are at present no plans for its reopening.

For your DiaryPC meeting : 6th July, 7pm, meeting by Zoom.1. If you wish to join the meeting please email the clerk no later than Sunday 5th July susanwood@uwclub.net2. Have the Zoom application or download it at https://zoom.us/download3. An email will be sent no later than midday on Monday July 6th inviting you to attend the meeting advising the meeting number required to attend. If the email does not arrive, please check the junk or spam folderIf you would like to join the meeting but do not have access to the internet, it may be possible to do this by phone. Please call the clerk on 01233 623902 by Sunday 5th July.The PC is looking into how activities such as the fete can resume as lockdown eases – update in August Eye and Parish website.

Reimagined Painting of Henry VIII in Charing Market Place page 16

Parish NewsWestwell Church Services for July

www.calehill-westwell.uk

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July on Hothfield HeathlandsSo many people have enjoyed getting back to the delights of a walk on the Heathlands, and may have seen the new residents, the longhorn cattle. Sadly the botanical survey scheduled for June and July, the fifth and final in the series to set a data baseline, has had to be postponed. But the flowers are there for all to see, from the simple golden tormentil that spangles the ground all summer to the elaborate flower structure of the two orchid species that are the stars of May and June. The pale pink or white spires of the Heath spotted orchid, Dactylorhiza maculata, are scattered over the open areas of the slope west of the upper bog and on the bog margins. It likes the same acidic habitat as the cross-leaved heath, Erica tetralix, and bog asphodel, Narthecium ossifragum, also now in flower. Dactylorhiza is from the Greek daktylos, finger, and rhiza¸ root, describing the divided tubers. Maculata means spotted, although the lightly scented flowers, resembling a dense cluster of frilly skirts, often have dark reddish dashes as well as dots. This is a plant of the western Britain and Ireland, now very uncommon in the Southeast. In Europe it ranges from Iceland to Russia to Italy, where some experts regard it as a variation of the Common spotted orchid. It is pollinated by bees, flies and other insects, but provides no nectar in return. Seedlings may take two years to appear above ground and another three years to flower. The Southern marsh orchid, Dactylorhiza praetermissa, grows in the lower bog where conditions are slightly less acid. Here it can grow to 50cm, a sturdy plant with the bright purplish-pink boldly marked flowers crowded in a spike on the top fifth of the stem. Like many orchids it can vary in colour intensity and flower markings and shape. It hybridizes easily with the spotted orchids, leading to even more variations. It occurs south of the Ribble/Humber and from Northern France to Norway and was only recognised as a separate species in 1914, hence praetermissa, meaning overlooked. It is pollinated by insects and butterflies. Both species survive in poor soil thanks to a highly specialised parasitic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi which supply nutrients but receive nothing from the orchid. Both produce large quantities of dust-like seed which is scattered on the wind and able to float on water. The fungi are essential to feed the minute seed as it germinates and develops underground. These orchids are locally common, dwindling as habitats are enriched by fertiliser, car emissions etc or lost to development. Several orchid species occur in the Hothfield/Westwell area, often in unexpected places including former industrial sites and the verges of busy roads. Leaving wild areas in gardens and clearing overgrown scrub without increasing soil nutrient levels can encourage seed to germinate or dormant plants to emerge, along with other treasures such as cowslips. The orchids close to Down House in Cudham Valley led Charles Darwin to exhaustively investigate ‘the many beautiful contrivances’ of complex orchid flowers to enable cross-pollination to increase the gene pool and thereby ensure the adaptability and flexibility necessary for the survival of each species. Everyone is welcome to visit Hothfield Heathlands. Most catches have been removed from gates so that you can open without using your hands, but they still need to be kept closed to protect the livestock on site. Trails are signposted and marked on entrance maps, as is the location of livestock. The noticeboard down the main slope from the Cades Road car park gives recent wildlife sightings. Please keep dogs in check, especially around children and livestock, and away from the scrub, heather and undergrowth where they will disturb sensitive wildlife.

Fire is now a big risk, please help ensure no fires are ever lit on site. Please remove dog mess, including in the Triangle compartment and take your general litter home. Be tick aware for dogs and humans throughout the summer; guidance is available from publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2014/03/24/tips-and-tricks-to-stay-safe-from-ticks/ Enjoy and take care.Margery Thomas

Charing Gardeners’ Society gets into virtual action in JulyWe have continued to stay in touch with members via a newsletter twice a month and people are now visiting each other in their gardens. We are friendly social bunch and miss our regular get-togethers. Our plant sales at talks were replaced by a garden-gate sale in Charing which so far has raisd £250 for the Salvation Army Covid 19 Appeal.Sadly our summer show on 18th July is cancelled so we are running a virtual show instead with a highly condensed number of classes. This is open to everyone not just members, and entry is free. There are nine classes including photography and a children’s class; entrants send photos of their entries to the show secretary. Members of the society will vote for the best in each class by email and winners will be awarded a certificate, appear in one of our newsletters, on our Facebook page and in next year’s annual. We hope as many as possible will take up this challenge to celebrate the work many of us have been doing in our gardens. Full details are on the society’s website www.charinggardeners’society.org.uk and available from Heather Button heather.button@sky.com, 07855 689273.Providing the pandemic situation continues to improve we have a local garden visit scheduled for members only on 9 August. New members can join at any time in the year and are always welcome, contact Nicky Bromley nixbrom@googlemail.com 01233 713615. We are also planning a talk in August via webinar to replace the talk we can no longer hold in person. Gardners are an adaptable lot. Come and join us.

Margery Thomas

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