Village Voices - February 4, 2011

The February meeting of Ewhurst, Staplecross and Bodiam Garden Society is on Thursday at 7.30 pm at Staplecross village hall.

The guest speaker is Jacqueline Aviolet whose talk is entitled “I am a tulip – what are you?”

As always there will be refreshments and a raffle. Non-members are welcome to attend at the bargain price of £1.

Next Thursday also sees the Parish Council meeting which takes place in the church room, behind St Mark’s at the winter time of 7.00 pm.

Local residents are encouraged to attend to hear what is happening for their benefit and there is a chance to contribute to the meeting at the discretion of the Chairman, David Young.

The Rector Gordon Winchester invites all to attend “Christianity Explored” a course designed to cover fundamental points of the Christian Faith.

The course began last evening and will run for the next five Thursdays at 7.30pm (finishing by 9.00pm) in St Mark’s Church, Northiam Road, Staplecross.

The purpose of the group will be to explore the Christian Faith with those who do not yet believe or who are uncertain of their beliefs; for those who would like to attend a refresher course; for those who would like to contribute their own understanding of the Christian Faith and so help the informal discussions in each session.

The Safer Rother Partnership is working with Sussex Police by enabling the marking of items of value in our homes with a free UV pen (available from Battle Police Station or the Community Help Point in Market Square).

Should these items be stolen, there is a greater chance of recovery.

Another scheme being put forward to aid recovery is “Immobilise” which is the world’s largest free register of personal property and used by all UK police, including the Sussex force.

This involves registering items on the Immobilise website (www.immobilise.com).

PCSOs will be visiting the Parish Council shortly to explain the advantages of the Immobilise scheme.

The police recommend you follow some basic rules to protect the contents of your property:-

Close and lock all ground floor doors and windows when retiring to bed.

Secure doors and windows when leaving house, or when in garden.

After dark, leave light on/or a timer switch when out.

Intruder alarms are an effective deterrent.

Mark valuables using UV pen with postcode and house number.

Photograph those items unsuitable for marking.

MARY REEVE

Wodens Wood,

Cripps Corner

WHATLINGTON

The Village Voice has been quite long in the last few weeks so I felt that I should not add to it.

I would, however, like to make a few more comments about what was said at the meeting at the beginning of January when the church presented their plans for the restoration of the Parish Church to reassure you.

The church in no way will be in competition with The Village Hall; it just will not have the facilities the village hall has.

The church will continue to use the hall for coffee mornings, harvest supper etc.

Also two members of the church are on The Village Hall committee and I know that they with other members are promoting the use of the Village Hall.

As mentioned sometime ago this hall did belong to the church up until the 1950`s.

There is also some concern that the Insurance Monies will not cover the cost of restoring the church.

We have been assured by our Loss Adjuster and Architect that this there will be adequate monies to rebuild our Church, “like for like”.

As mentioned the Loss Adjuster has quoted a figure of £800,000 to cover the restoration but the Insurance Company have indicated that if more money is required then it is available.

To date, we have spent just over £50,0000. I think that the most expensive outlay will be the roof and how amazing that we look if we able to use lighting to show its beauty.

Decisions on whether there are pews put back into the church or chairs, has not been decided.

Which flooring to have will depend on whether under floor heating is suitable and the church will be advised on this.

I have seen the pulpit and lectern in situ in a safe place near Peterborough. Both need much restoration but again no decision has been made as to whether they will return to the church.

The main concern at the moment is the roof which is Phase 1 of the restoration. I feel sure that another meeting will be held before any major decisions are made.

If you have any queries about the restoration of your church please do contact any member of the PCC who will be willing to answer these.

There was a gentleman at the meeting who read out a letter saying that instead of rebuilding the church we should use the money to spread the gospel.

Unfortunately this money could not be used in this way but his ideas are commendable and I would like to thank him for having the courage to stand up and express his views.

Parish Council Update: Among matters discussed at last parish council meeting:-

During the Open Session a parishioner advised the meeting that the 14th December 2010 court hearing had upheld the Abatement Order on Whatlington Garage in regard to odour from their paint spraying machine.

The order comes into force on the 13th March 2011. Should a problem arise with odour from the paint spraying parishioners need to contact the Environmental Officer at Rother District Council.

The continuing problem of blocked storm water drains was also raised. We were promised they would be dealt with before Christmas. The clerk is to contact the highways reminding them of their promise and asking for the work on the drains to be carried out as soon as possible.

Both our District and County councillors explained in detail the problems both councils are having with the reduced funding from government and how they plan to deal with this.

The council are anxious to continue with the tradition of a village children’s Christmas party, for which there are funds, and will be asking in the newsletter for someone in the village to come forward to organize this.

Due to possible expenditure of £1200 - £1600 for an election and in order not to increase our Precept, which will remain at £7000 the eight year without an increase, councillors have put on hold work on the pipe for the village spring and resurfacing the car park. They are however looking into possible grants for the work on the car park,

The council also agreed to give written support to any grant application Mountfield & Whatlington school make for their nursery building.

The next council meeting will be the Annual Parish Assembly on the 17th March 2011 with the speaker being Matt Pitts from the High Weald who will speak about the AONB.

This is also the meeting where local groups and councillors give a short report on their activities during the past year. The meeting will start at 7.00pm with the main parish council meeting following.

Here is the update from the Royal Oak:

We had a wonderful Irish Music evening at The Royal Oak last Friday evening. There were 13 musicians last week that met at the pub to play traditional Irish tunes together.

The live music really does create a great atmosphere and you can’t help tapping your foot or “chair dancing” along!

This live music event happens on the last Friday of every month at 8.30pm and we’d like to extend a big thank-you to Jo and Paul Dengate for organising the sessions and to all the musicians for coming along and creating a unique evening.

The Royal Oak pub quiz last week was closely fought again, and having come in second place by just one point the week before, the Better Half A team finally won last week - well done to them!

The quiz has been well supported over the last few weeks with at least 6 teams competing and some healthy rivalry is developing - why not put a team together and join us? We hold the quiz every Thursday evening, beginning at 8pm.

Don’t forget that we put a “Peak Preview” question on our Facebook page on the Wednesday before the quiz to give you a bit of a headstart!

Whilst on the subject of quizzes, please don’t forget that The Royal Oak has registered for the St Michael’s Hospice inter-pub quiz.

This will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 24th February and we’re keen to field some good teams and be in with a chance of winning the trophy for the highest score in the area!

If you would be interested in taking part, please register your team with us in advance on 01424 870492 so that we can make sure we have enough materials on the night.

Parish Communion will be held in the Village Hall at the usual time of 8.30am.

Hilda Aplin

Lismoyne Oakhurst Road

BODIAM

It was a sad night for Bodiam Parish Council at the last meeting.

Heather Lewis, the clerk for 30 years, stepped down.

Heather did not do the job by half and put in a lot of unpaid overtime.

I know when myself as chairman talk to other council chairmen and say we have the best clerk around, we did in Heather.

Must say a thank you to Heather’s other half who took phone calls etc, who we do sometimes forget when we have meetings and meetings.

Yet one more sad event for Heather is most times the other half cooks the meal when she is at meetings, now she will have to do it.

Perhaps Heather, you could still say you are off to a council meeting.

The chairman will back you up, I know.

All the very best Heather, we will not forget you.

News next week of the new clerk.

The dates for the mobile library service for Bodiam are February 10 and February 24 from 3.05-3.30pm. Stops at Levetts Lane.

For enquiries, phone 0345 6080 196.

Date for your diaries - the next estate inspection for Amicus Horizon housing officer Marie Lapierre is March 1, meeting at the playground in Levetts Lane at 1pm.

We were sorry to hear about Ken Blanch who lived for many years at a home in Levetts Lane.

Ken is not in the best of health.

We all know that Ken will fight, but must have his many friends from the Castle Inn and Bodiam for support.

I know he would like to spend his last days in a convent. This will not take place as Ken will win.

GEOFFREY GOODSELL

13 Levetts Lane

UDIMORE

AS another part of the Udimore Local Action Plan, the formation of a village wildlife group was further discussed at an informal meeting last Thursday.

It was agreed that the group’s proposed name is to be the Udimore Wildlife Society.

Everyone who was at the initial “Wild Udimore” meeting on 10th December will be informed of the date of the meeting, in early April, when the Society will be formally launched.

Meanwhile, there will be a guided walk round part of Court Lodge Farm on Sunday afternoon, February 27, more details in due course.

If you missed the initial meeting but would like to consider joining the society, or would like to hear more about it, please contact Bob Turgoose (01424 882657).

THE monthly Family Service for All will be at 11.15am this Sunday, in St Mary’s Church. As usual this will be followed by a social get-together, with refreshments.

IN two weeks’ time, at 7pm on Friday February 18, there will be “An Epicurean Evening of Poetry and Prose” in St Mary’s Community Hall, by invitation of the Brede and Udimore Churchwardens.

All contributions to the evening’s programme of favourite pieces of poetry and prose will be welcome.

If you have some ideas, please ring Gary Marriott (01424 882412) or Ann Barker (01424 883515), whom you should also apply to for tickets: the price of £12 will include wine (or soft drinks) and a fork supper. All proceeds from this event will be divided between the parish funds of St George’s and St Mary’s.

RICHARD HOLMES

Beauchamps

IDEN

Iden Bowls Club will be holding a Jumble Sale tomorrow, Saturday 5th, in the Village Hall from 1 pm.

If you have useful but no-longer-needed items to donate, please contact Carol on 280 464. NO electrical goods, please.

Mr. Chris Wood, Iden Fete Committee chairman, has asked for a plea to be made for some “young blood”, male or female, to join the committee and perhaps bring new ideas with them.

If you would like to help, please contact Richard Curd on 280 446.

It was particularly disappointing that no members of the public came to the re-scheduled meeting - from December - last week.

More committee members are needed, this time for the Village Hall committee. A Secretary and Treasurer are needed.

Please contact Ray Griffin on 280 311. He is the chairman of the Village Hall committee.

Iden Fete will be on Saturday 30th July and many volunteers will be needed on the day.

Iden W.I. will have their next meeting on Tuesday 8th February in the Village Hall at 7.30 pm.

If you would like to join please speak to Carol on 280 464.

On Monday 14th February,Mrs. Sue Marshall with talk to the Iden and Playden Garden Society about “The English Love Affair with the Iris.” The meeting begins at 7.30 pm.

On Friday 11th February, the Chairman of the Iden and District Natural History Society, Melvin Smith, will be giving a talk about Iden’s best kept secret, Ted Catt.

Born in 1869 Ted was an avid recorder of everything he saw going on within the district with special interest in its natural history, which led him and one or two others to form the Natural History Society.

He was an accomplished artist, taxidermist and book binder as well as being someone who could turn his hand to any job involved with the land.

He also had the foresight to record everyday life knowing that it wouldn’t last for ever, and future generations would have a chance to look back at how country people lived during the Victorian and Edwardian period.

This is a real insight into the Iden of over 100 years ago, an evening not to be missed.

You will be made most welcome. If you wish to join it is £12 or just £2.50 for the evening. The meeting starts at 7.30 in the Village Hall.

The service at 9.30 am for the 5th Sunday before Lent will be Family Communion.

MARION LOVELL

Abingworth, New England Lane, Playden

WINCHELSEA BEACH

As the first Sunday in the month (6th February) St Richard’s Church holds an Evening Prayer with hymns at 3 pm. All are most welcome and refreshments to follow.

The Mobile Library will be in Sea Road at the usual time of 11.55 am to 12.30 pm for books and info.

There will be a Bingo evening on Wednesday 9th February at 7.15 for 7.30 pm in the Community Hall. As usual this is on a fortnightly basis with the next session on 23rd February.

St Richard’s Church Fellowship Lunch for this month is on Friday 25th February, as usual at 12 for 12.30 pm in the Community Hall. Booking is essential and you will need to contact Joan Phillips on (01797) 227394.

Cindi Cogswell

31, High Fords, Icklesham

NINFIELD AND HOOE

Last Saturday saw The 1st Ninfield Scout Group hold their 1st jumble sale of the year at the Memorial Hall.

There were plenty of bargains to be had with the hall full of donated goods.

The group would like to thank all those who helped, donated and attended. As soon as a figure of the takings is known, I will let you know how well they done.

The East Sussex County Council Mobile Library service will next be in the villages tomorrow (Saturday, February 5): Hooe, opposite Denbigh Court, 1.50pm - 2.35pm. Ninfield, Millfield (Manchester Road), 2.50pm - 3.25pm. Ninfield, Downsview (Church Lane), 3.40pm - 4.05pm.

Ninfield CE School will be participating in Education Sunday on February 6, 10.30am (not 9.30am as stated last week), at St Marys Church, Ninfield.

Education Sunday is a national day of prayer and celebration in England and Wales, for everyone involved in the world of education, and is marked by Christian churches around the UK & Ireland.

In 2011 the theme is ‘Firm Foundations’ exploring the importance of education as a foundation for life, as well as looking the Bible’s teachings about firm foundation.

In addition this year especially celebrates the contribution of the churches to education. Pupils, staff, and parents are invited along to the service.

Ninfield Flower Group are holding a meeting on Monday February 7, commencing 7,30pm in the Memorial Hall. Their evenings workshop is titled “Take Five Flowers”.

For further information on the flower group, please email: [email protected].

The Christian Women’s Fellowship are meeting on February 9 at the Reading Room, Ninfield, 2.30pm. The topic of the afternoon is ‘How to keep warm in winter’. For further information, please contact Pam Doodes on 01424 892329.

Dance classes are back, and will start again at the Memorial Hall in Ninfield - Adults - “DANCERSIZE” - Tuesday evenings at 8.15pm - 9.15pm from February 8. Children on Fridays, age 3 - 7 years from 4.15pm - 5pm then age 8 - 13 years from 5.15pm - 6.30pm starting on the February 11.

As well as Dance , the youngsters will have Drama, Song and Games interwoven through the course which is called “INSPIRE” .

The aim is to encourage and improve confidence, motivation, social skills, posture, imaginaton and co-ordination.

There will also be the opportunity to learn some more fantastic routines for Carnival Day, as the Dance Club has been asked to perform again in the main arena!

Posters are up in the Village and for more information, call Sam on 893699 or 07970650321. The Dance Club will also be starting at the Village Hall in Catsfield from February 16 so look out for advertising in the village!

The Hooe Open Group are holing a meeting on February 11, 2.30pm at Hooe Village Hooe.

This months Open Group speaker is Barrie Turnwell who will present a talk entitled “Quips, Quotes & Questions”. Plus there will be the groups usual social get together.

For more information on the group, please contact Edna Wallis on 01424 842591.

Ninfield Parish Council invite you to take a look at their web site and give them your feedback on it: http://ninfield.webplus.net.

This is a fairly new site and is there to inform villagers of the goings on of the Parish Council. There is also a diary for all village events so you can see what is going on month by month.

To give your feedback or book an event in the diary, please email the clerk at: [email protected].

Our District Councillor, Pam Doodes, will shortly be meeting with the Battle Community Bus people as she would like them to consider extending their service to cover Ninfield, Hooe and Wartling (the ward that Pam covers).

Many residents have told her about their concerns about poor public transport coverage supporting our area and she is trying to find an affordable solution. Pam would like to hear your views and comments!

Please let her know what you think. Would you use community transport! Please contact Pam: T 01424 892329 / [email protected] / pamdoodes.com.

Wealden District Council’s Community Development Team are holding Exercise to Music sessions at Ninfield Methodist Hall (Church Lane), from February 14, 2011.

The sessions are 10am to 11am and for the older members of our community. You are invited to go along and enjoy movement to music, meet new people and get active! The movements are both chair based and standing so matter what your ability, you can join in.

The first 8 sessions are free and then a small fee will apply from June onwards. If you would like more information, please contact the team: Tel: 01323 443555, Email: [email protected] or pick up a leaflet from Ninfield stores or a copy of the leaflet is on Pam Doodes website: pamdoodes.com.

This months Golden Circle meeting is on Tuesday February 15, 2.30pm to 4pm at Memorial Hall.

The guest Speaker will be Mr Layton Frewen who will be talking about Edith Cavell. Non members are welcome to visit, listen and enjoy afternoon tea at a guest fee of £3.00.

The Ninfield Horticultural Society’s next meeting is on February 16, 7.30pm at the Memorial Hall, when they welcome back Ian Rumley Dawson.

His topic will be ‘Islands beyond New Zealand’. Apologies from Rose for the wrong date in the Parish News. Also don’t forget to buy your tickets for their Diamond Evening on 4 June, with Pippa Greenwood.

Tickets are available now at £5 for members and £9 for non-members. Tickets are limited so contact Rose or any committee member asap.

Tickets are going fast. For further information, please contact Rose Franks: 01424 892422 or email: [email protected].

Ninfield school invite you to their Ice Skating Extravaganza on February 17, 3.30pm - 7pm at the school. There are still a few places left for skating.

If you would like to take one of these places the cost is £4.50 per person for 1/2 hour skate. Please book your tickets with Mrs Sleet at the school, Tel: 01424 892486 (opt 20).

Payment will need to be made to the school by February 14, to secure your place. There is also winter warmer refreshments, fair ground rides and more.

The school would welcome the local community to come along and join in and looks forward to seeing you there.

The Friends of Ninfield School appeal to the better nature of local business’ and ask for donations of a prize for the raffle.

Please contact Mrs Sleet as above or call into the school.

A BIG THANK YOU!! To Pam and Shaun Cornford who have decided to step down for a year from organising and doing the BBQ after 7 years stirling support and hard work.

The Carnival committee are sad to see them go but quite understand that. For once, they’d like to actually SEE a Carnival without looking out from under a gazebo and through a haze of burger fumes!!

Huge gratitude to them and their stalwart team of ten helpers, you will be much missed! SO!!

Now is the time for the next set of frying volunteers to step up to the griddle!

Going back to the dance classes above.. while the Mums are helping with their offspring doing the Dance Display.. how about the Dads taking up the BBQ challenge?

Please contact James Parker,Liz Walker or Sam Guard if you feel a hot dog coming on!!

Ninfield Parish Council are holding an Open Event on February 17 at the Reading Room (Church Lane, Ninfield), 2pm-7pm.

In the words of Lord Kitchener, or nearly!.. ‘your village needs You!’. Please drop in for a chat and some refreshments. This is a difficult time in many ways and the Council wants input from as many people as possible as to how improvements can be made with volunteer support, remember, Parish Councillors are unpaid volunteers too!

Village residents will have had the up to date Community plan, and this is the time to discuss items and pull together in various groups.

East Sussex County Council have a Temporary Road Closure at A 269 High Street/Standard Hill, Ninfield. ESCC is carrying out carriageway surfacing on A 269 High Street/Standard Hill.

The necessary Temporary Road Closure Order commences on 21st February and lasts for a period of 18 months or until the work is completed. However it is anticipated the road will only be closed for 2 days on 21st February and 22nd February.

A diversion route will be signed and maintained for the duration of the works as follows: via A269 The Green - B2204 Catsfield Road - Catsfield Stream - Main Road - Horns Corner - Tellis Coppice - A 271 Kitchenham Road - A 269 Standard Hill and vice versa.

Any queries concerning the work should be addressed to Stuart Beale or Phil Hempe 0345 60 80 193.

Carnival! Two big events... on the same day.!

On Saturday April 2, 2011 The Carnival Committee will be hosting the much loved Afternoon Tea for the over 60’s at the Memorial Hall, and this year the entertainment will be provided by the Brighton Revue Company (Sam’s gang!) doing what they do best..a Music and Comedy revue.

As well as fabulous sandwiches, scones and cakes there will be wine and possibly beer! Invitations and Posters will be out and about shortly!

On the same evening, the committee will re-decorate the hall and enlarge the Bar for a special evening’s frivolity... a “Ladies Night” ..but not just for ladies!!.. which will have a Disco and ‘The Auction of Tradesmen’.

Again, look out for posters in the next few weeks with all the information!

Pram Race - will be held on the Recreation ground on Bank Holiday Monday May 2, unless the weather is awful for the week before and the ground deemed too soggy, then it will be back to the Manchester road run and the Blacksmiths car park - thanks Louise!- where entertainment will carry on during the afternoon..more info nearer the time!

Memorial Hall - Fundraising is the buzz word for the Hall Committee, and everyone is invited to put teams together for the Big Quiz night on Saturday March 19, 2011.

These evenings are great fun so please try and get there! The co-ordinator of the fundraising bids is Kaye Crittell and she needs people to help put together ideas and input, if you can help please call her on 892883.

The Floor Fund is ticking along...the floor itself needs desperate and urgent attention, if it goes then so does the majority of events, activities, Club facilities etc, it doesn’t bear thinking about.

Church Services for Ninfield and Hooe: St Mary’s Services (Church of England, Ninfield):

Sundays - 9.30am Parish Eucharist (Family Service on 1st Sunday of the month - please note the change in time for the 1st Sunday of the month, 10.30am)

1st Sunday of the month - 6pm Book of Common Prayer Communion Wednesdays - 10.00am Holy Communion

St Oswald’s Services (Church of England, Hooe): Sundays - 11.15am Parish Eucharist (Family Service on 1st Sunday of the month) Please note that there is no service on February 6, 2011.

Ninfield Methodist Church - all services at 2.30pm: February 6, 2011 Worship Service led by Revd Malcolm Hope. February 13, 2011 Worship Service led by Revd Marion Proud. February 20, 2011 Holy Communion led by Revd Stephen Maunder. February 27, 2011 Worship Service led by Mr David Hanson.

Anything that you would like included in the Village Voice for Ninfield or Hooe, please email the details to me: [email protected].

Rachel Feeley

17 Smith Close, Ninfield

CATSFIELD

This Friday we hold our Extend exercise class in the Village Hall at 11 am.

We should welcome new members, who are invited to come and sample our hour of chair based exercise which livens up the whole body, for free.

The cost is then £3 per session.

We need more helpers for the Lunch Club which meets at 12.30pm on Fridays and has a team of two or three who serve and wash up.

If anyone would be willing to give up a couple of hours, once a month, we should be most grateful.

Please ring me on 892301 for information about Extend or the Lunch Club.

On Monday February 7th, the Horticultural Society holds its AGM at 7.30pm in the Village Hall to discuss among other things, the Village Fete, held on the first Saturday in August.

A glass of wine and nibbles will get you in the mood to enjoy all things festive and horticultural.

Our Village Social Club is up and running again, after the break for pantomime rehearsals and performance which used their village hall slot.

Between 7 and 10pm there are all sorts of board and card games and other activities, including table tennis, for you to enjoy, £2 is the cost for the evening, but Janet says new members can enjoy their first evening, free.

Enquiries and bookings for the Village Hall or Hermon Cottage are now done through Jim and Sarah at the Village Shop.

They are open seven days a week, but please keep to opening hours, if you phone on 893498.

We have the following report from our Police Community Support Officer, Maureen Baker, about a theft from a motor vehicle in Catsfield.

It happened between 2 pm and 5 pm on January 25th when several items were taken from a vehicle parked outside Spire House, Church Lane, part of the old Methodist Chapel.

Items taken included a new boxed lawn mower, a sat nav, paper work and cash.

The other break in occurred on the 19th and items taken included work tools, some later found in and around the car park.

We are all asked to be extra vigilant, locking cars and not leaving valuables in view.

Our Family Communion this Sunday is a celebration of Epiphany V and the Accession of H M the Queen, at the usual time, 9.15 am.

PATRICIA SPEEDY

Longstone, Powdermill Lane

HURST GREEN

Following the decision of the Council, by majority vote, to go ahead with the complex at the former Roman Catholic church the following statement has been issued by Cllr. David Hilbourne who served as vice chairman and responsible financial officer, on submitting his resignation from the council:-

‘Maintenance of the building and the entire costs of the project will have to be borne from the profits made at the shop.

Costs will include all normal costs together with the considerable costs of insurance and maintaining a large wooden building with a high maintenance cost roof.

Technically, the vote was in favour of making an application to borrow £50,000 from the Public Works Loans Board to be repaid by rate payers.

The building will have to be leased at £90,000 and costs identified so far include immediate repairs of just under £40,000 plus costs of alterations and the setting up of the shop’.

This statement underlines the observation that it is essential that support is forthcoming from the Village once this project is underway now the council has put its hand to the plough.

It is clearly a high risk venture but it is possible with the goodwill of everyone - success or failure lies in the hands of the residents of Hurst Green.

Cllr. Hilbourne has given competent and loyal service to the village and appreciation must be extended to him.

Orchard Farm Shop is extending its premises and new facilities will be available shortly. At the moment there is an attractive sale of pots on offer, a wide selection of designs and colours are there to browse.

The next Historical Society meeting takes place on February 9 at 7.45 when David Martin will speak on Local Farm Buildings. New members welcome, just turn up if you have not already joined.

Church Service as usual at 9.30 . Communion. All welcome.

The Bilroth Quartet will entertain at the Church on February 13 at 7.pm.

Tickets £8 from Teknique. Their reappearance will be welcomed by those who enjoyed their performance last summer.

Well loved classics are guaranteed to offer a memorable and relaxing evening.

Early notice for your dairies, last week-end in March 25/26 is the Comedy Capers time for the panto, The Three Musketeers. Lots of fun in store.

Boxes for Troops at Teknique Hairdressers, Helen and Lesley always ready to receive your gifts, sweets, bathing items crisps, etc.

Parish council meets the last Tuesday of the month at 7.30 in the village hall, the public are asked to attend and may at the desecration of the chairman make comments.

Chiropody clinic is held on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons at the Village Hall, Jeremy Harris, highly recommended can be contacted for an appointment on 01797 230 251 or mobile 0799991 7948. Aerobics Class Tuesday 8-9 Martial Arts (Juniors) 6-7 (Seniors) 7-8 Jumping Beans Tuesday 1.30-2.30 Trefoil Guild ring 01580 819 330 Maestro Babies (early music learning) 01580 880 135 mobile library calls Friday 2.25- 3.15 Jempsons Peasmarsh bus picks up at the George (or opposite at the bus stop) Tuesday 1.25. There is a scheme to help elderly or disabled council tenants with small jobs in home or garden, ring for conditions and details 0845 871 321

All items for this column to 01580 860 340 or [email protected]

Flora Jenner

Max Gate, Burgh Hill

PLAYDEN

Bright blue sky, lots of sun and a wind straight from Siberia reminds us that it is still a winter month.

And I quite forgot to mention Ground Hogs last week.

Wednesday 2nd was the day when these little American animals pop their noses out of their burrows to see whether the winter is over.

If it’s nasty, they go back under ground until it improves. Or so they say.

Eva, Kai, Jack and Charlotte from Playden School are to be congratulated on winning the local badminton tournament at Rye Sports Centre.

The pressure was on, because the school had won the competition for the previous 3 years!!

So, extra well done to them all.

During the week there will be a Travelling Book Fair in school with opportunities for children and parents to browse and buy books to take home.

There will also be a chance to take part in a prize-winning Story Hat competition.

Residents of the villages may like to take the opportunity to visit the Rye Community Hub in Rye Club.

It is open to everyone each Wednesday morning from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm for a cup of tea or coffee, a chat, an exchange of information or items they may have grown.

Later in the season this will probably include plants and produce.

Rye Film Club will be screening “Letters to Juliet” on Friday 4th February at 7 pm, doors opening at 6.30 pm.

The synopsis reads, ‘Aspiring writer Sophie finds a letter left half a century before, which will change her life when she determines to try to trace the writer and reveal the story’.

Playden Floral Group will hold their next meeting on Monday February 7 at 2.15 pm in Playden W.I.Hall.

You are invited to bring greenery and a favourite or unusual vase or container.

For more information, please ring Joan on 222 583.

Unfortunately the Friends of Playden Church winter party had to be cancelled.

The next exciting event is not until the end of March, when the Treasure Hunt takes place.

The clocks will have changed by then !

The mobile library will be at Poppyfield on Monday from 11.30 to 11.50 am.

East Sussex Hearing Resource Centre is a registered charity working in partnership with Adult Social Care to provide a no-charge mobile information and advice service for deaf, deafened, hard of hearing and deaf/blind people living in East Sussex.

The mobile unit will be visiting Winchelsea on Thursday 17th February, outside the Post Office from 10.30 am to 3.30 pm.

The bus is wheelchair accessible and representatives from both the East Sussex Hearing Resource centre and Adult Social care will be available to provide individual information and advice on all aspects of hearing loss.

For further information please contact Sarah Bettany on 01323 722 505.

ARRCC is looking for a volunteer to run the computer suite.

It needs to be someone with I.T. experience, perhaps between jobs or retired to help out.

Please contact 01797 22 93 68.

The service on Sunday for the 5th Sunday before Lent will beFamily Communion.

MARION LOVELL

Abingworth,

New England Lane

BREDE

Tomorrow, Saturday, 5th, is another Open Day of the Brede Steam Engine Society at Brede Waterworks from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm.

There is plenty of free parking – just follow the signs near to the top of Brede Hill. Enthusiasts of historic machinery are always welcome at these open days. In the evening, at the Village Hall, the first of this year’s Dances is being held from 7.30 pm, admission £3.50.

The programme includes ballroom, sequence, Latin and line dances.

Two regular meetings will be held this week with the Women’s Institute holding theirs on Wednesday, 9th, in the Village Hall at 2.00 pm and Brede Friendly Circle on Thursday, 10th, at 7.30 pm.

The WI have as their speaker Mrs. Julia Quenzier talking about being a BBC Courtroom Artist and a competition for a portrait.

The Friendly Circle’s speaker is Mike Beswick on the subject of Central Africa and its People. New members and visitors are welcome at both meetings.

English Rural Housing Association will be exhibiting the latest plans for a small development of affordable housing in Brede.

The development provides permanent affordable housing, specifically for local households, allowing them to remain within the community.

The event, which will take place in Brede Village Hall on Tuesday, 22nd, from 3.30 pm until 7.30 pm, has been arranged with the assistance of Brede Parish Council to allow residents an opportunity to find out more about the proposal or register an interest in the new homes.

Rye and District Association of the National Trust will be holding their A.G.M. at Beckley Village Hall on Friday, 18th, at 7.30 pm.

The next quiz evening being planned is by the BOB’s Recreation Ground Committee and will take place in the village hall on Saturday, 26th March at 7.30 pm.

Tickets are £7.50 per person and will include supper. Tables can be booked by calling Graeme on 01424-883548. Proceeds will go towards the funding of new play equipment at the Recreation Ground.

The Mobile Library will be in the village again this week. It will be stopping on Tuesday, 8th, at Oakhill Drive from 3.00 to 3.30 pm and at Reedswood Road from 3.40 to 4.15 pm and also at the village hall on Thursday, 10th, from 1.25 to 1.55 pm.

The Library service provides a wide range of things besides reading books including audio books in cassette, cd or some are even in MP3 version, a range of music cd’s and dvd’s as well as its internet access and reference library.

Services at St. George’s Church during the coming week will be a Sung Eucharist at 9.30 am and Evensong at 4.30 pm on Sunday, 6th, with Holy Communion on Wednesday, 9th, at 10.00 am and Tuesday, 8th, Thursday, 10th and Friday, 11th, at 9.00 am.

Trinity Methodist Church returns to Broad Oak again this Sunday, 6th, for the usual service at 11.00 am which will be conducted by Mr. Owen Birch.

Summary of this week’s activities at the Village Hall:

Saturday, 5th: Village Dance (7.30 pm); Monday, 7th: Age Concern (10.30 am), Rainbows (4.30 pm), Brownies (5.30 pm), Whist Drive (7.30 pm); Tuesday, 8th: Painting for Pleasure (10.00 am); Wednesday, 9th: Brede Women’s Institute (2.00 pm); Thursday, 10th: Stretch and Tone (9.30 am), Tai Chi (2.00 pm), Brede Friendly Circle (7.30 pm); Friday, 11th: Farmers’ Market (10.00 am), Short Mat Bowls (7.30 pm).

Scout Hut, Stubb Lane: Monday, 7th: Beavers (5.30 pm) and Cubs (6.45 pm); Tuesday, 8th: Scouts (7.00 pm).

If you have anything to be put in the column it can be sent e-mail to: [email protected]

JOHN MAY

Mill Lands

WINCHELSEA

Winchelsea Literary Society meets this evening (Friday) for the film: An Englishman Abroad. Actress Coral Browne (playing herself) is on a cultural exchange in Moscow where she meets double agent Guy Burgess (Alan Bates).

This will be at 7 for 7.30 pm in the Court Hall. Membership costs £15 for the year and visitors are always welcome and are invited to make a voluntary donation.

The Rye Film Club would like to remind Club members of tonight’s film: Letters to Juliet. An aspiring writer Sophie finds a letter left half a century before, which will change her life forever when she determines to try to trace the writer and reveal the story. The Film Club meets in the Rye Community Centre starting at 7.00 pm.

There will be a Church Market tomorrow since it is the first Saturday in the month.

As usual from 10.30 am to 12 noon with home-made produce for sale, coffee/tea on offer and good company. Iain Kerr will be keeping everyone entertained with light piano music.

The Winchelsea Singers have started rehearsals for Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle which is due to be performed at St Thomas’ Church on Saturday 16th April.

New members who enjoy singing are most welcome and no audition is required. The choir rehearses weekly on Tuesday afternoons from 2 to 4 pm at the New Hall (contact Charlotte Beecroft 223159)

The Mobile Library will be in Castle Street on Wednesday 9th February at 1.40 to 2.10 pm, for books and info.

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is the name of the talk given by Patricia Dawes at the next Second Wednesday Society meeting.

Patricia will be reminiscing on her life in the Diplomatic Service and this will be on Wednesday 9th February, 2.30 pm in the New Hall.

The subscription per annum is £10 and for non-members the cost is £3.50 which includes talk and tea per meeting.

A Christian Love Feast will be held, close to Valentine’s Day, on Saturday 12th February in the Methodist Chapel.

This is a long standing Methodist tradition to which all are welcome to come and share a simple light meal together and reflect upon our faith.

Starting at 11.30 am Rev Malcolm Hope (Methodist Minister in the Rye to Bexhill Circuit) will be leading our thoughts in learning more about the Love Feast and the part in plays in the Methodist heritage.

The Garden Society has organized an outing to Wisley RHS Garden on Wednesday 16th February.

There is so much to see in the middle of February, for example early camellias, witch hazels, hellebores and spring bulbs, especially snow drops, in flower and plenty of the winter colour for which the garden is famous.

Bring your binoculars if you are interested in birds because last February there were flocks of siskins in the garden.

The twittering of these finches feeding among the trees is renowned as a pleasant sight and sound in winter. Also during the visit the Glasshouse will be staging a display of tropical butterflies for your observation.

When you are ready for a rest there is a range of eating places and an excellent shop and plant centre. The coach leaves from the bus stop by the town sign in Winchelsea at 9 am and will be returning between 5 and 6 pm.

To reserve a place please contact Howard Norton on 226524 and the cost is £15 for non-members and £14 for members of the Garden Society.

During August and September (2010) the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) underwent a large restructure which resulted in redundancies.

The Pension Service has now become part of the DWP which leaves Carolyne Ball (of the Pension Service) with a much larger area to cover and more duties. Her area now includes bits of Sussex, Surrey and Kent where she visits to assist people in applying for pensions and other benefits.

RVA (Rother Voluntary Action) have looked into this and suggest that many people over 60 could manage without the visit to their home by applying for their benefits on line.

Since more households have access to computers they would be able to do their applications via the web or telephone.

Yet there are also many over 60s who have not succeeded in adapting to computers.

Ultimately this would reduce the number of visits to just those with specific needs/the vulnerable who would continue to get help with applying for benefits.

Cindi Cogswell

31, High Fords, Icklesham

SANDHURST

Thanks must go to Nicola Nicholas for all her time as a school governor of the primary school over the last ten years.

She devoted a lot of spare time and energy and was very much appreciated.

Parents and friends continue to support to 50-50 Club.

New subscriptions are welcome for the club, which provides extra funding for the primary school. For more information call 01580 850288.

Little Rainbows is a free baby and toddler group that meets at Sandhurst Baptist Church Hall on a Friday from 9.30am - 11.30am. Call 10580 850671 for more information.

Geoffrey Goodsell

13 Levetts Lane, Bodiam

NETHERFIELD

Netherfield Church – The Jumble Sale in the Village Hall last Saturday raised over £140.

Our thanks to Gillian Slack for organising it and to the people who helped on the morning.

It is not perhaps as good a result as had been hoped for, relative to the effort that went into preparing for it, however, every penny raised is always welcome and goes towards keeping our church going.

Thank you to everyone who supported it.

Services for February are our Family Service on Sunday 6th, Holy Communion on the 13th and Holy Communion on the 27th.

All are at 10 a.m. On Sunday 20th we shall be joining Mountfield for a Holy Communion, also at 10 a.m. Please consider coming and joining us.

Two future dates have now been confirmed for major events in the village.

Following the success of the Music Festival at the White Hart last year, it is being held this time on the May Bank Holiday weekend. Saturday 28th May starting in the afternoon and continuing into the evening.

The Village Fair has been fixed for Saturday 16th July and will be in the afternoon at the playing field. More details of the content and attractions will be divulged as arrangements are finalised.

Please make a note of the dates so you can come along and give your support.

Both of these events are good family fun and are staged primarily for the people of Netherfield to come together and enjoy themselves. Paul Smith. Churchwarden.

Musical Ducklings - From 0-5 years. Contact Claire on 01424 838457 for more details.

Darvel Down & Area Residents Association. Any resident requiring a lift to the hospital / doctors / opticians.

Please call Jim Jefcoate on 838721 or Ron White 838296. (Voluntary contributions welcome)

White Hart Bingo will be a regular spot on the first Monday of every month.

Next game will be on Monday 7th February. Eyes down at 7.30pm. Last months jackpot was over £130.

Date for your diary at the White Hart - Thursday 24th February Charity Quiz Night In Aid Of St Michaels Hospice. Teams of 6 people starts at 7.45 pm £2.50 per person.

White Hart Boules Pitch. The pieste is free to use, any clubs please feel free to come and use the pieste, FOC any time except match days which are Saturday afternoons though the season is now over.

We have a group of ladies and Gents that play amongst themselves Monday Lunchtimes.

Netherfield FC sponsored by the White Hart – Sundays game was called off due to the heavy frost. Please come along and support the team. The team and supporters are welcomed back to the White Hart after the game where food is laid on.

Orpington F.C. play on Saturdays at the recreation ground. They won their game this week. The lads and their supporters come back to the White Hart where food is laid on for them.

The Rover group joins us on the 2nd Tuesday of the month ALL welcome.

The Harley Davidson group meets on the 1st Friday of each month ALL welcome.

T.R.Cars meets on the last Thursday of the month All Welcome.

The Breakaway Club meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month. This is a ladies group that meet and chat, have talks, days out and are always looking for new members all welcome.

Hastings Mobile Library will be outside the shop from 11.50 – 12.10, today, Friday 4th February and on Friday 18th February 2011.

To include your event or local Netherfield news please e mail me [email protected]

Maria Standen

Swallow Farm

ETCHINGHAM

The Etchingham Singers resumed their meetings on Wednesday (February 2), the group meet every Wednesday, 7.30pm to 9pm in the village hall, new members are very welcome to join.

The singers have enjoyed singing popular music, mostly of the sage and screen, they would now like to encourage a few new members who sing alto, tenor and bass, so they can broaden their horizons a bit.

Members contribute £2 a session to cover costs. If you are interested in joining or want to find out more, contact Mary Barnes 01580 819142 [email protected]

Do you enjoy flower arranging?

The PCC is looking for someone with an interest in flower arranging, to take on the role of co-ordinator for the annual Flower Festival in the Church, which always takes place during the weekend of the Etchingham Fete in July.

The role would involve co-ordinating the displays and encouraging village groups and individuals to contribute displays.

If you are interested, contact Mary Barnes 01580 819142 [email protected]

The Etchingham Sports and Social Club has now re-opened, and is open on four evenings every week.

On Monday and Wednesday the hours are 7pm to 11pm, on Friday and Saturday 8pm to 12 midnight.

You will find a friendly atmosphere and great value drinks, there is a new volunteer staff from around the village, and a new pro-active and enthusiastic committee.

There are two full size Snooker/Billiard tables, a Pool table and Juke Box, and Credit Cards are now accepted as a means of payment.

The committee are planning a refurbishment in the future, once funds are available.

New members welcome, membership is £20 for adults, 18-59, pensioners rate, 60+, £10, junior, 16-17, £5.

There is a Committee meeting in the club on Sunday (February 6), so the Club will be open for everyone from 7pm to 10.30pm.

On Saturday February 12 a party with disco, starting at 8pm, to celebrate Pete’s 70th birthday and Valentine’s Day. the theme is 50s/60s Rock ‘n’ Roll, so if you want to turn up in appropriate fancy dress, then go ahead, everyone welcome.

Saturday February 19 sees the return of Quiz Nights at the Club, the Quizmaster will be Kieth Boylett, same rules as before, maximum six to a team, 8.30pm start, cash prizes.

The much delayed Etchingham and Fontridge Cricket club Players Night will take place on Saturday February 26, 8pm.

The usual format, an entertaining evening expertly compered by Mike Shillabeer, and the presentation of all the Cups and Trophies to the players.

Details of further events, such as Quiz Nights, Race Nights, Disco’s etc. will be announced in this column and the village e-bulletin.

If you are not aware of the e-bulletin, this is an email bulletin sent out at regular intervals with village information and details of forthcoming events, the messages are sent out using Bcc, so your email address remains private, to join the scheme send an email to Nicky Menzies [email protected] and ask to be added to the distribution list

Etchingham Parish Church invite you to a Saint Valentines Coffee Morning, in the village hall, on Saturday February 12, 10.30am to 1pm.

Stalls and sideshows including, W.I. Eatables, raffle, bring and buy, adults and children’s books, hot soup and bread.

If you have information for this column get the details to me as soon as you can, so that your event gets all the publicity it deserves, try and get your information to me by Sunday evening to make sure it is included, and get the details to me as far in advance of the date as possible.

Remember, if you do not tell me about your events and happenings, I will not know about them, if I do not know I cannot tell everyone about your events. Also, remember to send me a report after the event.

COLIN BOYLETT

2 Park Farm Cottages

FAIRLIGHT

Better late… Sorry, but this notice is later than it should have been, for reasons ‘outside my control’.

Our M.P., Amber Rudd, will be holding her first rural surgery (Surgery? No, it’s not more cuts!) in Fairlight Village Hall this afternoon from 4.00 to 6.00 pm. She will be taking questions from constituents, each of whom will have a 15 minute appointment time.

It is certainly too late to get an appointment for today, but please watch this space for details of future surgeries and your turn will surely come!

Mining for Ore… The Literary Society’s meeting next Wednesday, 9th February will see Christine Hayward give a talk entitled ‘Ore Village and District – Anglo-Saxon times to me.’ Sounds fascinating? So, be at the Village Hall for a 2.30 pm start. If you’re not a member, it will cost you a mere £1.

Life savers… What could be greater than being able to save someone’s life?

The Fairlight Community First Responders invite you to improve your life saving skills, under the auspices of the British Heart Foundation, and meet your local Community First Responders – the admirable Liz Brooker and Dot James – who can be the first on the scene after a 999 call.

They’ll be at the Village Hall from midday on Saturday, 12th February. A light (and no doubt healthy) lunch of soup, bread and apple pie can be bought, helping them to raise money for new equipment. Any enquiries to Liz Brooker, please, on 813419.

The disappearing cat… This year’s Panto has come and gone, and Puss in Boots is but a fond memory.

For the fourth year in succession, the show was a sell-out, a thoroughly deserved tribute to the hard working team of Ben Burford, Aisling Tigwell and Sophie Williams, along with their entire talented cast and crew. Follow that…!

It’s not unusual for there to be rehearsal absentees during the panto’s two month run-up to the show, but this year was especially difficult with snow, ice, flu and norovirus, and director Ben had his first full cast on the second night of the run, as Megan Barham, playing Princess Pearl, succumbed to illness on the opening night! (She did return to perform manfully, sorry, womanfully, in the last three shows!) Hopefully you may find a review and piccys of the production elsewhere in your local paper!

Play begins… Rehearsals for the Players’ April production, Not Now Darling, have commenced on each Monday and Thursday in the Village Hall. They have a full cast, so if you would like to go along and see how they operate, you are unlikely to be embarrassed! You will be made welcome and, if you like what you see, could be tempted to get involved. Why not give it a go?

Blooming good… January’s Floral Club meeting was a great success last week for Vice-Chairman Stella McGowan, whose demonstration was entitled Magical Moments. She had selected her moments from a recent holiday on Anna-Maria Island, Florida, and her first subject was taken from the time she and her husband left England, with the sun rising over a glorious ‘white over’ hoar frost. Once across the Atlantic, there was a visit tio Mexico, and splashing about in the sea, and then finally settling down to watch the setting sun.

Chas and Dave beware…! At the February Floral Club meeting, the members will have the opportunity of putting into floral designs their ideas representing the Chinese New Year. The New Year (which, actually, was yesterday, Thursday, 3rd February) starts the Year of the Rabbit. Plenty of lettuce leaves, possibly?

Martin-OOO Lane… Have you read it? The latest Government quango, the Council for Registering All Potholes (more usually abbreviated to an acronym…) says there are 1 million potholes in our nation’s roads. Or was it 2 million? Or possibly 10 million?

Whatever, when you turn into Martineau Lane, after some 200 yards (in old money) and the road bears left, there is the mother and father of all potholes (it may even be the start of an open cast mine!) on your nearside.

It’s hard to avoid at the best of times, impossible if there is oncoming traffic, as it stretches more than 2 feet into the carriageway.

This is a real tyre-, and possibly wheel-, cruncher. Fear not, for by the time you’ve recovered your composure and your temper, there is another immediately opposite the sumptuous new bungalow being built towards the far end of the lane.

This will complete the destruction begun by the first hole.

Fear not! A rumour has it that they are both scheduled for infilling… in 2014! In the meantime, there is every chance that a couple of Smart cars will fill the holes temporarily. If they don’t we’ll all be looking for com-pen-say-shun!

Should they put the Lydd on it…? A Public Inquiry into the extension of the runway at Lydd Airport, with associated works to increase capacity, will start on 15th February at Folkestone.

In the official wording, anyone wanting to make representations, for or against, should write to - Inspector K. D. Barton, The Planning Inspectorate, Room: 4/02, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN, using reference: APP/L2250/V/10/2131934.

The aim appears to be for the expansion to proceed until 2 million passengers a year can be catered for. Do you feel the potential noise and visual effect of such expansion may be seriously damaging to the well-being of residents in the wider area, or do you feel such effects may well be more than offset by increased employment opportunities, and increased revenue flows?

How strong is the road and rail infrastructure for those seeking to get to or away from Lydd? Though it would be good if your views were received before the Public Enquiry opens, they are duty bound to consider all correspondence received during the course of the enquiry.

Time passes… It seems but a short time ago that we were warning of the impending three month winter closure of the Gardening Club hut, situated in the spur off Lower Waites Lane up to Fairlight Gardens.

Now we reverse the news, as on all Saturdays from now until October, the hut will be open from 10.00 am to 12 noon. Why not give them a look for their competitively priced range of garden goodies?

Oh, you do have to be a Club member to take advantage of this invaluable service.

The Club would appreciate some volunteers to help mind the store, so please get in touch if you would be willing to share a couple of sociable hours on the odd Saturday or two.

A hardy Annual General Meeting…? Next Monday, 7th February, sees the Gardening Club’s AGM in the Village Hall at 2.30 pm.

It is hoped that all members will be there! New season’s subs may be paid at the meeting. If the Gardening Club has this sort of meeting every year, why isn’t it a Perennial General Meeting…?

You must know by now…! Almost the last call for the Fairfest-organised Valentines Dance, which is a week tomorrow in the Village Hall. Fairlight Post Office are holding the £7.50 tickets, and so, too, are Jennifer, Norman, Wendy and Margaret (whose phone numbers are on the posters around the village.) If you haven’t got yours yet, one wonders why not!

Hastings Country Parking… There is but a short time remaining for comments on the Hastings Council’s proposed charging for parking at the Country Park.

Though many Fairlight residents regard the Park as ‘theirs’, which it is geographically, it belongs to Hastings Council.

If you feel you would be unfairly penalised by a charge, or that, possibly, it might lead to ‘outsiders’ parking free on Fairlight’s roads nearest the Park, and thus clogging up the village, you could register your feelings by post, to arrive before 12 noon on Monday, 14th February, to Hastings Borough Council Budget Consultation, Policy and Performance, 2nd Floor Aquila House, Breeds Place, Hastings, TN34 3UY, or meet the Leader of the Council tomorrow, Saturday, 5th February between10.00 am and 12.00 noon at a drop-in session at the Town Hall, Queens Road.

Keith Pollard

Brookfield, Broadway

PEASMARSH

I’m not sure if everyone in Peasmarsh is aware yet, but Rother will now collect cardboard for recycling! This service started on 10th January, and if your rubbish is anything like mine it contains quite a lot of cardboard, so this is a very welcome bit of news! Any type of cardboard can be recycled, from appliance packaging to cereal boxes, as long as it is clean and has been flattened.

Cardboard should be placed in the green wheelie bin – please make sure you don’t include any other packaging such as plastic film that is sometimes stuck on boxes and packets, and no cardboard that has any food residue on it.

The Rye Film Club would like to remind Club members of tonight’s (Friday 4th February) film: Letters to Juliet - Aspiring writer Sophie finds a letter left half a century before, which will change her life forever when she determines to try to trace the writer and reveal the story. The Film Club meets in the Rye Community Centre starting at 7.00 pm.

Peasmarsh Flying-Start Parent & Toddler Group is held every Tuesday afternoon during term time, at the pre-school in School Lane and welcomes all children under the age of 5 and their families. The group starts at 1.20pm and costs £2 per family

Mary Hitchins

2 The Old Hop Gardens

ICKLESHAM

This Sunday’s Service in All Saints is a Parish Eucharist at 10.30am. The Reverend Howard Norton takes the service.

The Feel Good Live Music at the’’ Queen’s Head ‘’on Sunday 4-6pm is by Stone Junction who do Cajun music which comes from Louisiana and the Deep South of the United States.

The week after next it’s Panto time for Icklesham with the Icklesham Players in the Memorial Hall on the nights of Thursday 17 - Saturday 19.

Let’s hope the crossing will be working by then. It would be very useful for the audience at that time,

The Panto is called the ‘’Tale of Tales’’ and writer/director Del Smith has a story that you wont know and then lots of characters that you do.

Yet all the traditional panto tricks are there - sing-a -longs,boos hisses, he’s behind you, oh no he’s not, oh yes he .... A brand new hilarious show which is ideal for families and for all those who are young at heart..

So if you want to be part of the Fairy Godmother versus the dreaded Demon King get your tickets from Joan Baker on 01424 814246.

Tickets are only £6 for adults and £3 for children. The evening performances start at 7.30pm and on Saturday 19 there is a matinee at 2.30pm.

Philip Harvey the one time Captain of Icklesham Cricket Club has had a very sticky wicket recently.

He and his family live in Australia and were right in the middle of the Queensland floods.

There was a lot of digging to be done followed by the problem of food contamination.

For a full report visit the Martello Bookshop in Rye

The first Quiz Night of 2011 was last Saturday With 12 teams filling the Memorial Hall and an excellent £260 being raised for the Icklesham Horticultural Society. Some new names appeared on the score sheet.

The teams were; 5 Villages House (Pre-War), the Horticultural Society (Flowerpower). Westfield (Short planks), Cricket Club (Nobby’s Nuts, Football Club (Casualties), Stoolball Club (One out All out ), Ladies’ Darts (Golden Arrows), Seaview Icklesham (Allsorts), Icklesham & Pett (Stalybridge Celtic), Manor Close (Plan B), Icklesham (6 Bombs), and Oast House Field (The Oast House Four).

The early leaders were Pre-War but they were soon pegged back by Nobby’s Nuts and the eventual winners Stalybridge Celtic.

Four teams excelled themselves in round 5. Flowerpower, Short Planks, Plan B and Golden Arrows each played a very shrewd Joker giving a potential double points and then each got maximum correct answers.

Stuart Baker thanks everybody who supported the evening. He’s delighted that ten teams are already entered for the next Quiz which is on Saturday 26 February.

To avoid missing out contact Stuart if you want to take part. It’s 01424 814408.

Jean Watson’s friends from the W.I. and the many other groups which she belonged to are having an afternoon tea in the Memorial Hall next Wednesday 9 February 2-4pm.

All her friends and neighbours are invited to come.

Jean loved nothing more than meeting up for a chat and a laugh over a cup of tea.

It was felt that this would be a fitting tribute to her.

LAURIE BOWMAN

Magpies, Oast House Field

CAMBER

I have had some great reports about the Quiz Nights that have taken place over the last two Saturdays.

Tina from the Green Owl tells me that her event went with enthusiasm and creativity on all sides!

Eventually after much struggle and determination the, Universally Challenged won with Wikepedia runners up. Well done everyone.

Keep absorbing all those amazing facts that are so vital to making these evenings possible at all.

St Thomas Church ran the other quiz night. Again much fun was created by the half a dozen teams, each determined to win.

The Sugar Plum Fairies, members of Camber Church Youth Club, were terrific in their creative efforts to confirm certain really quiet obscure facts that were difficult to retrieve from their young brains.

There was much signaling, straining and rather obscure verbal exchanges from them, developing new liaisons with members from other teams!

Regrettably, they couldn’t continue to the end of the quiz due to the curfews set by their parents.

It was widely rumoured that had they been able to compete to the end, they could have would have wiped the floor with the rest of the teams.

In their absence after a nerve breaking three way tie between the Quintets, the Brady Bunch and the Fairway Strollers, a tie breaker produced the Quintets as outright winners.

The Ploughman’s Supper definitely added to the enjoyment of the evening, the home made pickled onions were to die for!

Well done to Sylvia for a terrific effort.

As usual on Monday the children’s After School Club starts at 3.45pm at the Village Hall.

Children who are of Primary School age are welcome. Sam Birk can give you details. 07749 857 060

On Wednesday the Extend Exercise Class at the Village Hall runs for one hour from 12.30pm.

This gentle class is for the overs fifty’s and any one with a disability.

We tend to let exercise go as we get older, but this is the time when we need it more than ever.

This class is aimed at maintanning flexibility and stability, it’s surprising how this stiffness creeps up.

It doesn’t have to. Think about this attending this group, it’s really worthwhile.

You don’t have to pay for the first visit, what is there to loose? Vanessa can give you more details, 01797 229 568.

The Nifty Fifties social club meets on Thursday afternoon, 2pm - 4pm also in the Village Hall.

Again the magic age of fifty plus! There has been some research published recently proving that being socially active has incredibly positive effects on health.

Treat your health to a boost, go along. Vanessa has more details, 01797 229 568, or Betty can help, 01797 225 551. This afternoon out will cost you, £1.

On Friday there is Pop In, another social occasion. This happens in the Thomas Longley Hall behind the church 3.30 - 4.30pm.

Anyone wanting a bit of company and a cuppa is welcome. I can arrange transport if necessary.

Don’t sit at home thinking you can’t get there. Larri 07858 449 360.

On Sunday at 10.30am there is Parish Communion at St Thomas Church coinciding with this Sunday Club runs from 10.15 - 11.45am in the Thomas Longley Hall.

This club with a Christian focus, is for 5 - 11year olds, the under fives welcome with their own adult keeping an eye on them. A cup of tea and a chat conclude the morning if you have time.

The last weekly activity is for young people. Camber Church Youth Club takes place twice a week on Sunday between 4 - 6pm, and Tuesday 7 - 9pm. Members are between 11 - 16 years old.

Julie and John Lomath will give you any information you need. 01797 226 217.

Start thinking about the Film Club showing planned for 11th February. It is showing Iron Man 2.

This will be at the Village Hall at 7.30pm and cost £4per adult and £3 for children.Pop Corn and drinks are included in the price.

Camber church is looking for an organist. If you can help or know anyone who might be interested let Brenda Abrams 01797 280 118 know. It needn’t be a weekly commitment any contribution to the rota would be welcome.

Thank you to all those who are helping me by sending information to be included in this column. It essentially belongs to the Camber community and I can’t write it without your support.

Let me know how your event went, this can be included and will encourage anyone who didn’t make it to give it a try the time it runs.

Maybe it’s a one off snippet, someone may have achieved something special, let me know.

It’d be great to here good news, we here loads of bad don’t we?

It’s really useful to have a communication network, keep me informed. Larri Hayhurst. [email protected]. 18b, Denham Way

Larri Hayhurst

18b Denham way

NORTHIAM

Today, Friday, the Horticultural Society’s lecture will be held in the afternoon as a bit of an experiment to see if people prefer this time.

Saltwood Summer starts at 2.30pm in Northiam Village Hall, and is the story of what to do if you discover a new variety of plant and want to share it with a wider number of gardeners.

After Susan Scrivens and her husband found a new type of orchid foxglove in their garden at Saltwood, near Hythe, they decided to share their discovery by trying to get it shown at the Chelsea Flower Show.

The trials and tribulations involved in getting a nursery interested and making sure it has a sufficient number of plants in order to market them properly forms the basis of Mrs Scrivens’ fascinating talk. All welcome, non-members £2 on the door.

Rye Film Club will be showing Letters to Juliet this evening - aspiring writer Sophie finds a letter left half a century before, which will change her life forever when she determines to try to trace the writer and reveal the story. The Film Club meets in Rye Community Centre starting at 7pm.

Dance Club (Sequence Dancing) meets in Northiam Village Hall at 7.30pm, and the badminton clubs run in the Pretious Sports Hall at 5.30pm (Primary school-age), 6.30pm (Secondary school age) and 8pm (Adults).

On Saturday, Gymnastics clubs run in the Pretious Sports Hall between 9am and 5pm, with a Police Public Meeting in the Village Hall at 9.30am.

On Monday, sports on offer are Yoga, Shortmat Bowls and Pilates in the Village Hall, with Badminton in the Pretious Sports Hall at 5.45pm. Northiam Friendly Bridge Club meets in the Jenkins Room at 2pm with refreshments provided.

Willing Fingers will be making “Heart Cushions” for a charity which supports those who have undergone a mastectomy. New members will be very welcome, the group meets on the first Monday of every month in the Church Centre at 2pm, and help and encouragement are readily available. Bring along your sewing kit if you have one.

Toddlers meet in the Pretious Sports Hall on Tuesday mornings between 9.15am and 11.15am with many activities, a healthy snack and the chance to meet new friends. Women’s Fellowship meet in the Church Centre at 2pm.

Street Dance, Hip Hop and Funky Dance sessions are held on Tuesday at 5.30pm (6-12years) and 6.30pm (13-18years). Call Charmaine Masters 07816 417538 for more details. Penny’s Keep Fit/Aerobics is in the Pretious Sports Hall at 7.45pm.

There is a novel topic for the Historical and Literary Society on Tuesday evening – The History of Crop Circles, with Andy Thomas.

It should be a very interesting meeting. Visitors are welcome at a charge of £2, and the meeting starts at 7.30pm in Northiam Village Hall.

Wednesday brings us Pilates in the Village Hall (ring Sarah 01424 882285 if you would like to join), followed by Shortmat Bowls and Karate. Coffee Stop opens in the Church Centre each Wednesday between 10am and 12 noon for a chance to meet with friends and have a chat.

The Footpath Group meet in the surgery car park at 9.30am heading for the Fairlight Road picnic area to start a 7 mile walk, trees in winter. Lunch will be taken in Hastings Old Town.

Thursday Seniors will be visited by the rural road show at their meeting in the Village Hall on Thursday, with advice on help and benefits available.

Advisers from the Citizens Advice Bureau will be available in the back room of the Village Hall between 10am and 12 noon.

The Parish Council will meet in the Jenkins Room at 7pm.

Church Services (6th): 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Morning Praise

KAREN AYLING

The White House, Dixter Road

PETT

Village Voice understands that The Boathouse, the performing arts project for young adults (16+) who are in supported education/training in the Hastings and Rye areas of East Sussex, has got off to a good start with an encouraging turnout for the first two Sunday morning sessions.

Details of the first public performance will be available soon.

Guestetling Wood is a lovely wood enjoyed by dog walkers, locals and people from further afield.

Watching the seasons change through the changes in the wood is an absolute delight.

Sadly not all people see it this way. Recently there has been evidence that horses and riders are once again forcing their way into to the wood.

Horses are not allowed in Guestling Wood, whatever claims might be made about ancient bridleways and the like.

Last year when riders with their horses were seen, their access route was identified and blocked.

That same access has now been cleared and the riders have returned. It is sad that there are people around who feel that rules are for other people and do not apply to them.

The Woodland Trust, the owners of Guestling Wood, has been informed of this latest incursion and hopefully the access will be closed once again.

Church Services on Sunday 6th February– Parish Communion, St Mary & St Peter, Pett at 9:30am; Sunday Service at the Methodist Chapel at 11:00am.

Pett Gardening Club will meet on Tuesday 8th February at 7:30pm at Pett Village Hall. The speaker will be Alan Kenworthy who will show some wonderful slides of his travels to New Zealand and other places, including many exotic birds and plants. It will be a meeting not to be missed.

The Mobile Library will be in Pett and Pett Level on Wednesday 9th February. It will start at the Church at 10.10am, moving on to Chick Hill at 10:50am and finishing at The Smuggler at 11.20am.

Mary Saint

Pett Road

SEDLESCOMBE

This Saturday, February 5, in the village hall there is a baby and children’s nearly new sale.

Everyone who has children or grandchildren knows just how expensive some of the toys and equipment is these days especially as a lot of it is only of limited use due to ever changing needs, so this is a great opportunity to grab a bargain.

Last minute tables can be hired if you are in a position to sell by calling 07961 956673. The doors open at 2.30pm with entrance at £2.

All money raised from the afternoon will go to help Sedlescombe Pre School

Sedlescombe and District Flower club will once again be meeting at the village hall on Wednesday February 9.

The demonstrator on this occasion is Jean Allen and will be working through the title, Stepping Forward, so it will be very interesting to see what she can make out of that.

Doors will be open from 7pm with Jean on stage from 7.30pm. Members are asked to please try and encourage a friend or two to come along for the evening.

Visitors are always welcome to attend whether you know anyone when you step through the door on the way in does not matter, you will certainly know someone by the time you step back through the door out at the end of the evening.

There is hot news from Sedlescombe Players. The demand for tickets to see ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ has been so great that they are opening our doors to the public at the Dress Rehearsal on Monday February 14 at 7.30pm in aid of St Michael’s Hospice. There will be a £5 charge on the door which will go to the Hospice.

Seating will be in rows and not tables, on a ‘ first come- first served basis’.

The bar will be open but there will be no supper served on that evening.

For further information please ring 870694 or to go on a ticket returns waiting list for the other nights 718059.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the Show, I have it on good authority that it is going to be absolutely amazing, so do go along for a wonderful evening of entertainment

The next Sedlescombe & District Garden Society Member’s Meeting is on Tuesday February 15 at 2.00.p.m. at Sedlescombe Village Hall. The Guest Speaker will be Mr. Laurie Manser giving a talk on “Growing Vegetables”.

This should be a popular subject with the emphasis these days on as local food as possible, and what could be more local than growing it yourself so it should be a most interesting and informative talk.

There will be refreshments and a raffle.

They are hoping to see you there please remember that non-members are also welcome at £2 per person.

Pauline Raymond, our Parish Clerk writes: Sedlescombe Parish Council has decided to ask its residents to list up to three issues that they think should be tackled in Sedlescombe by sending out a survey form to every home in the parish.

The Council needs to have the completed forms back by 5pm on Monday 7 February.

They can be either left in the box in Sedlescombe Stores, posted to The Parish Clerk at Woodland Cottage, Chapel Hill, Sedlescombe TN33 0QX or e-mailed to the Council at [email protected].

So far, respondents seem to be worried mostly about problem parking and village eyesores.

These are two subjects that feature regularly on the agendas of the Parish Council.

But it is not only Sedlescombe residents who feel moved to write about Sedlescombe’s current parking problems, the Council has recently received an e-mail from someone living in a neighbouring village who says he and his friends now avoid driving through the Village because of the number of parked cars lining the roads.

Sedlescombe Parish Council has recently published a booklet entitled “Sedlescombe’s Pump and Pumphouse – a brief history” written by its Clerk.

The cost of printing has been covered by a Battle Partnership grant and a free copy has been sent to every home in Sedlescombe.

Additional copies can be purchased from Sedlescombe Stores at the cost of £1 each.

The Clerk has dipped into the archives to find the information and you can read about why it was decided to have a pump on the Village Green in 1900, who the Pratt sisters were, who the benefactor was, who the craftsmen were and there are a few snippets from people who remember collecting water from the well on the Green up to 1958.

On the back page we are encouraged to “use water wisely”. It is amazing to think that it would take a staggering 35 trips to the village pump for each person in a household to collect the same amount of water as is used now each day in the south east of England.

The booklet has been well-received and readers have said that, once they start to read it, they want to read it to the end.

Every year at this time, Sedlescombe Parish Council invites local businesses and organisations to submit copy for the forthcoming Sedlescombe Directory.

Businesses are asked to donate at least £21 (including VAT) for a small advert but local organisations and charities are not charged.

This is very popular and more than thirty business adverts are usually received which covers the cost of printing the booklet.

Entries and cheques should be received at Woodland Cottage, Chapel Hill, Sedlescombe by 5pm on Monday February 7.

Sedlescombe Sports Association, who maintain the pavilion and sports field for village use, invite you to attend a fund raising sports dinner they will be hosting at the Brickwall hotel on Friday April 8.

The evening will consist of a three course meal and coffee not to mention a few surprises during the proceedings.

Tickets are priced £25 and they look forward to your support please register your interest by calling 870615 or 870344 or pick up a form at Sedlescombe stores.

If you are at a loss of something to do this evening and fancy a trip out then the Rye Film Club would like to remind it’s club members that tonight Friday February 4 they will be showing the film, Letters to Juliet.

This is about an aspiring writer Sophie who finds a letter left half a century before, which will change her life forever when she determines to try to trace the writer and reveal the story. The Film Club meets in the Rye Community Centre starting at 7.00 pm

If you have an event coming up in the local area or would like to have a small piece, outlining your club or organisation aims, activities, membership etc. then please drop your information into the house, contact me by email to [email protected] or by calling 870344

Judy Torrance

Asselton House

ROBERTSBRIDGE

We would like to wish Ellie Salter well in her new venture; she has taken over Reflections in Robertsbridge High Street from 1st February.

To help her celebrate there is 10% off all treatments during February.

So why not get ready for Valentines in a couple of weeks and book in.

Don’t forget the village shops and pubs for those Valentines treats.

Saturday 5th February is Saturday Market at Robertsbridge Hall between 10am – 12noon.

You can buy fresh produce, fish, Busters meat and pies, fruit and vegetables, new clothes, handy crafts, jewellery and many other interesting stalls.

If you have any enquiries about the market please ring 01580- 882204.

Friday 11th February is the next meeting for the Robertsbridge and District Archaeological and Historical Society being held at Robertsbridge Hall with the meeting starting at 7.45pm.

The topic for the evening is `The Tale of Beatrix Potter` with the speaker Mrs H.V.O. Heather Woodward.

The society always welcomes new members.

A couple of reminders – the 6 Nations Rugby will be on HD TV at Robertsbridge Club starting tonight.

Robertsbridge Bonfire Society Dinner Dance is at Leeford Place this year on Saturday 12th March, booking forms are available from the Floral Boutique.

If you have anything that you would like people to know about in Robertsbridge and would like to put in this column please let me have the information by Monday lunchtime at the latest to The Floral Boutique for publication in that weeks edition of the Rye and Battle Observer.

Sandie Madge

& Sue Paine

The Floral Boutique, 20 High Street

MOUNTFIELD

This week Mountfield were at home against Staplecross Club.

Things are improving as they narrowly lost the darts 4 - 3, the winners were Alex Gray, Richard Hayler and Sam Gray.

There was success in the ladies pairs for Hayley Last and Jody Last and in the mixed pairs for Hayley Last and Pat Sargent.

Steve Sutton won the Captains game, the pushpenny was lost 4 - 1 with Wayne Hardy winning.

Their next league game is a local derby away at the White Hart on 11th February. We wish them all good luck.

Mountfield Lunch Club eat out together on Monday 7th February at Leeford Place.

If you would like to join us or need a lift please contact me on 01580 880186.

A meeting of the PCC will be held on Monday 7th February at 7pm at the Court.

The Parish Council will be holding a Planning meeting at 7.30pm in the Village hall on Tuesday 8th February.

Ruby Willis

1 Brickyard Cottages

WESTFIELD

From Westfield Parish Church of St. John the Baptist. Sunday 6 February (V before Lent) 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662), 9.30 am Nine Thirty Start (All-age service), 10.30 am Parish Eucharist.

Next week - Wednesday 9.30 am Holy Communion, Thursday 7.30 pm Parish Hall AGM. Family Support Work.

This week is the first Sunday of the month, and we have the opportunity to donate gifts of non-perishable food, to be used by the diocesan Family Support Work Outreach Team in Hollington.

Inter Parish Lunch. The next event on the social calendar has been changed from the suggested craft session. Instead we have invited members of Guestling Church to join us for a lunch following the Family Service on 27 February.

Offers to help with the supply and preparation of food will be gratefully received – speak to Margaret Moss (751407) or Sue France (751029).

Further information from Rev Evan France, The Vicarage, Vicarage Lane, Westfield, Hastings, TN35 4SD

01424-751029

The Murder Mystery Evening organised by Westfield Scouts on January 15 raised an amazing £359 for their funds.

The Group would like to thank everyone who supported the evening.

Westfield Scout Group is holding a Jumble Sale on Saturday, February 12 at 2pm in Westfield Community Hall.

They would be grateful for donations of jumble from 12 noon at the Hall, but cannot accept TV’s, monitors, or items larger than a chair. Admission is 20p.

F3 (Friends, Fun and Fellowship). All women are welcome at the F3 meetings in the Parish Hall on the last Thursday of the month. Please join us in the Parish Hall at 7.30 pm. £2 admission.

Westfield Community Hub is open from 10am to noon every Friday, except Bank Holidays, at The Old Courthouse Pub, Main Road, Westfield.

The Hub is an open meeting place for the people of the Parish to come together for a coffee and a chat, to borrow books from the book exchange, to use computers, have a game of Wii Sport or find information.

If you have not visited the Hub please call in one Friday - it is a very friendly place to spend and hour or two.

The Sloe Gin Competition was held on the 21st January and the Cup and first prize went to Andy McFarlaine. Runner up was Patricia Marston. The Judges were Trish Oakland, Irene Almandras and Geoff Bendle. There will be another Sloe Gin competition in December.

The next Hub Quiz Night will be the 9th April at 7.00 p.m. for a 7.30 p.m. start, at The Old Courthouse Pub. Put the date in your diary. We have a lot of fun at Quiz nights and the food, supplied by Hub Committee Volunteers, is excellent. Many thanks to all those who supplied raffle prizes or bought tickets for the Christmas raffle.

All money raised by the Hub Committee goes directly towards supporting continuance of the Hub which is entirely self sufficient organisation run by volunteers for the Parish of Westfield.

For further information please call in, email [email protected], or visit the website www.westfield-hub.co.uk, or ring 07531 766830.

It seems a long way ahead, but the first 1066 Relay is planned for 8 May 2011 and planning needs to start early if the race is to go ahead.

The 1066 Relay will follow the 1066 Country Walk route (Stage 4 passes though Westfield) and should attract a huge number of runners.

The organisers are asking for the help of volunteers to act as marshals for about half an hour.

Nick Brown would be delighted to hear from anyone who can help. Visit www.spanglefish.com/1066relay to find out about the race, or contact Nick on 07918 907265.

Remember that the Westfield Village Community Website www.westfieldvillage.co.uk carries useful and interesting information on village life, groups and business services. News, photos and other contributions are always welcome.

Westfield WI. Westfield WI meets in the Parish Hall on the second Tuesday of the month at 2.15 pm.

They meet next Tuesday, February 8, at 2.15pm in the Parish Hall, when Michael Smith will be talking about ‘An Atlantic Survivor –Tom Crean’.

We also look forward to Pamela Vieler telling us about ‘Memories After the War’ at the meeting on 8th March.

New members are warmly welcomed; do ring 01424 753757 for more information.

Westfield Beavers have a few places at present for boys or girls aged 6 plus who are looking for fun and friends.

We offer varied activities so come and give it a try. Contact Sue on 01424 425492 or Rose on 01424 754080 for more details.

Westfield Football Club is still looking for helpers on match days and for preparation.

For more information please contact the Secretary at [email protected] or visit www.westfieldfc.com.

The Westfield Golf Fellowship has confirmed their 2011 golfing calendar.

It consists of Chart Hills on March 31st, Sweetwoods on May 12th, The European Tour 2011 in Bournemouth from June 12, Sedlescombe July 20th (tbc), Royal Eastbourne on September 8th, Singing Hills on November 3rd and the end of season finals day at The Weald of Kent on December 28th. Please email [email protected] or telephone Nick on 07939 587796 for further information.

The Rye & District Lions have supported Rye’s “Tower Ballroom”. Rye College, in association with the Friends of Rye Wurlitzer, has established the Rye Wurlitzer Academy, with classes provided for Rye College students by the notable

International artiste and organist, Michael Wooldridge, from Worthing. Michael plays on BBC Radio, has also played for Prince Charles and has played the grand piano with the legendary Mantovani Orchestra.

In addition to tutoring at the Rye Academy, he is also Electronic Organ Tutor for Sussex University.

The Rye Wurlitzer is the second oldest in England, being installed in The Palace Cinema in Tottenham in 1925 where it accompanied all the silent films until 1929 when the “talkies” arrived.

After this it provided music during the intervals and accompanied sing-alongs.

It was then bought by Rye Grammar School in 1957 for £450 and installed at the back of the newly built school hall. During the late 50’s and 60’s the organ was used regularly, but during the 70’s it was unused and its condition declined.

However, a new teacher resurrected the instrument in 1980 and the Rye Old Scholars’ Association (ROSA) raised funds to prevent the organ being sold.

Following this, the Chairman of ROSA, Richard Moore formed the Friends of Rye Wurlitzer and, with the addition of Lottery funding, the Wurlitzer was restored to its 1925 glory by 2003.

The organ’s console has now been moved from the balcony to the College stage where it rises through the stage floor on its own lift.

The Rye Wurlitzer Academy has eight students learning to play the organ under the tutelage of Michael Wooldridge.

At last Sunday’s concert, where Michael entertained a large audience, one of his pupils, Jemyma May-Hanson, played a solo.

This was after only receiving six lessons. She was presented with a bouquet by Rye College Head Teacher, Ann Cockerham and with a “goody” bag by Richard Moore.

To ensure that the Wurlitzer Academy can continue, Rye & District Lions Club President, Conrad Freezer, presented the Academy with a cheque for £250. Conrad said how enjoyable the concert had been, but he kept looking for the little bouncing ball that used to bounce along the top of the words on the screen when the Wurlitzer used to play in the cinema.

There are six more concerts arranged for this year on the 27th February, 27th March, 24th April, 22nd May, 25th September, 23rd October and 27th November.

They all start at 2.15pm at Rye College and tickets are £7.50, or £5.50 for Rye Wurlitzer Friends, who pay £10 a year and new members are welcome.

Further information on Rye & District Lions is available from Conrad Freezer, President, Rye & District Lions Club, 01797 252921 or email [email protected]

Due to editorial space, it may be occasionally necessary for the Editor to switch information from the Village Voice to the “Clubs” section.

Sorry if that causes any problems. Also, to help with planning, for the foreseeable future could contributors please get any information to me by 10am on the Sunday prior to publication.

To send information for the Westfield Village Voice, please email [email protected]

GEORGE SUNDERLAND

Heathlands