Malling

SOUTH MALLING SCHOOL: says,'After a very busy, and a very successful, term, we finished for the Christmas holidays this week with a wonderful Nursery and Reception Nativity, the Key Stage 1 Church service, two Key Stage 2 Carol concerts and our much loved Talent Show. We would like to wish everybody a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. We look forward to seeing the children again on Monday 7th January 2019!'

TRINITY SOUTH MALLING (Parish Church): Despite the dreadful weather last Sunday evening, there was a record congregation at South Malling’s Carol Service. As people struggled in from the cold and rain, they were greeted to a warm welcome in the Candle-lit Church. As usual, the service was a “good sing”, for everyone, with many well-known carols and a few interesting new ones. The wonderful music was assisted by the choir, who lifted the singing with their descants and harmonies. The Christmas story was spelled out by seven Bible readings, from the early prophets to the coming of the three Kings. The Associate Vicar, Revd Jeremy Bamber, showed, in his brief address, that “God’s fingerprints are clear in Jesus’ story”, and ended with a Christmas blessing. Then came hot mulled wine and warm mince pies shared with old and new friends. Next Saturday, 22 December, from 10 a.m to 12 noon, there is a Craft Morning for children at South Malling Church. On Christmas Eve at Malling, there is the usual crib service ( 3.30 p.m. - about an hour long). Also at Malling, Midnight Communion begins at 11 p.m. and there is an All Age Morning service on Christmas Day at 9.30 a.m. - again, fairly short, and festive in spirit.

MALLING TENANTS ASSOCIATION: Cllr John Lamb writes that Lib Dem councillors attended a meeting with the Police earlier this month, to discuss the perennial problem of parking in Malling. They were told of 204 extra parking spaces at the police HQ, with 65 to be built in January and February - and the rest over the next five years - though in total, ending up with fewer than were originally promised. They also identified measures to reduce car use among their workers, such as discounted fares, a shuttle bus, a care share scheme, and 40 spaces at Sackville House. These are expected to reduce car use by 7% and increase use of public transport by1/2% over the next five years. They also discussed measures suggested by members of the public to deal with careless parking around the estate. Response to John’s email shows continuing dissatisfaction with parking arrangements in Malling. Certainly, there is work for Councillors and their constituents to do here, supported by the Tenants Associaton.

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REED COURT: Members of “the Hero’s Club” are delighted with the result of their recent Charity event to raise money in aid of Chestnut Tree House - a Children’s Hospice. They want to thank all who gave prizes, bought raffle tickets, entered competitions and enjoyed a cup of tea or coffee with cake and a chat. Despite the wet day, they raised a grand total of £459. 50p. Well Done everyone, raising this excellent amount of money for a very worthy cause.