Northiam

Badminton: The final Pay & Play sessions will be held in the Pretious Sports Hall on Friday evening, with Sheldon Chambers (a Badminton England level 2 coach) running sessions from 7pm. The cost is £2.50. All very welcome.

Horticultural Show: Northiam Horticultural Society’s Autumn Show is on Saturday 30th August. Having brought the date forward, the committee are looking forward to an abundance of blooms, as well as entries for fruit and vegetables, domestic skills and photography. New exhibitors are most welcome, and the first step is to take a look at the schedule and see which classes appeal. The Schedule can be viewed on the northiamvillage.co.uk web site by clicking on Clubs & Societies and then Northiam Horticultural Society. Just take your exhibit to Northiam Village Hall between 9.00 and l0.30am, and stewards will be available to assist you. The doors open to the public at 2.30 pm, so do take a chance to visit and enjoy the displays, and perhaps be inspired to enter yourself next time!

Footpath Walk: The Footpath Group are off to Scotney Castle on Sunday for a 4 mile walk, leaving the surgery car park at 1.30pm. NT members, don’t forget to take your card! It was good to see their stall at the village Fair and see that the local Walks leaflets are still going strong. Since the closure of the Post Office, these have been on sale in Will’s, so that’s where to go if you need some ideas for local circular walks along way-marked paths.

Bowls: The Bowls Club is looking for new members, and anyone interested will be very welcome on Monday evenings after 5.30pm to have a go, or phone Trevor Monk (01797 252307). Bowls is suitable for all ages and sexes, and can be played competitively or socially. Northiam is a small friendly club, and offers a great way to meet new people and get some gentle exercise.

Over 60s: The Over 60s meet in the Village Hall on Tuesday at 2pm. I haven’t been given any details of the meeting, but I’m sure everyone will be keen to catch up on all the news after the summer break.

Coffee Stop: Coffee Stop opens in the Church Centre every Wednesday from 10-12 for a chat.

WI: The Women’s Institute meet in the Jenkins Room at the Village hall from2-4pm on the first Wednesday of the month. This time, they will be holding a surprise craft afternoon. Visitors/new members are always welcome, either go to a meeting, or call Margaret Hinds on 01797 253341

Craft Fair: The next Bonfire Society’s Craft Fair is on Saturday 6th September. 10am-2pm. There is already an interesting mix of stalls – if you would like to book, please contact via the website northiambonfiresociety.co.uk.

Pink Piglet Day: After you have visited the Craft Fair, the next port of call is Northiam Scout Group’s popular Pink Piglet Day which is also being held on Saturday 6th September at Scout HQ, Goddens Gill. Donations for the raffle, tombola, food hamper or the teas would be gratefully received. Draw tickets are on sale at 50p.

Scout Leaders Wanted: The Cub Scouts are in need of a leader. If anyone is interested in taking on this incredibly fulfilling role, please give Jacky Broad (01797 253228) a call. We have one of the oldest Scout troops in the country, and it has given a fantastic start to a lot of our youngsters.

Blue Cross Fete: Featuring a Fun Dog Show, Dog Agility, Young Artist Competition, games and live entertainment, the Blue Cross Annual Fete starts at 10am on Sunday 7th September. Entries for the Dog Show are from 9.30am, with classes beginning at 10.30am. To register for the Art Show, I understand that you have to go on their Facebook page, or call in to the Centre.

Football: Northiam 75 Football Club is currently looking for new players for the coming season. Anyone interested (must be over 16) please contact Rob Deal 07876 741199.

St Mary’s Services (31st): 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Holy Communion

Karen Ayling

The White House, Dixter Road