Village Voices - January 7, 2011

From Westfield Parish Church of St. John the Baptist. Sunday 9 January (Baptism of Christ), 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662), 9.30 am Nine Thirty Start (All-age service) with Holy Communion 10.30 am Matins.

Next week, Wednesday 9.30 am Holy Communion. Children’s Society. Many thanks to all who use the Children’s Society boxes at home.

Please could you bring your box to church for emptying as soon as possible.

Many thanks also to all those who made a donation at the Christingle Service, which raised £248.78.

For further information contact Rev. Evan France, The Vicarage, Vicarage Lane, Westfield, Hastings, TN35 4SD, telephone 01424 751029.

Regrettably, after avoiding mindless damage for some months, the church has again been subjected to an incident of spiteful vandalism.

Some time between Friday evening and Saturday morning on December 10/11 one of the lamp fittings that illuminate the church was smashed.

The parts for these fittings have to be sourced from Australia, so the church will not be properly lit over Christmas, quite apart from the cost involved.

If anyone has information about this crime, please contact the police (quoting crime number ER3/115026/10) or the Vicar.

The now famous Westfield Christmas lights looked even more wonderful than last year.

An amazing £15,300 was collected for St. Michael’s Hospice from 2005 to 2009 from visitors coming to see the lights, and we thank the villagers for all their hard work in decorating their houses and collecting donations again this year.

The next F3 meeting is in a few weeks time, all women are invited to the Scottish evening on January 27.

The Hub re-opens today January 7.

To find out more about the Hub call in at ‘The Old Courthouse’ on Fridays from 10am-12 noon, email [email protected], visit the website www.westfield-hub.co.uk, or ring 07531 766830.

Westfield School would like to inform everyone that although the new term started on Tuesday, January 4, there will be an Inset Day today Friday, January 7, when the school will be closed for staff training.

Remember that refuse and recycling collections changed slightly after Christmas.

The collection day (Monday) is unaltered, but cardboard placed in the green garden waste bin will be collected from January 10.

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.

Westfield WI meets in the Parish Hall on the second Tuesday of the month at 2.15 pm, and new members are always made welcome.

The first meeting of the new year is on January 11, when Ian Millington will be talking about ‘A Policeman’s Lot’, and the competition is an item of police memorabilia.

Members are reminded that plans will be finalised for the ‘Christmas’ lunch at the Brickwall Hotel in February.

Do ring our President Carol on 01424 753757 if you would like more information.

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.

Would you like to see the broadband speed improved locally?

Do you think that Westfield broadband speeds need upgrading? BT is conducting a national vote to see which exchanges will be upgraded for broadband in 2011.

Local businesses and domestic users alike are finding the broadband service in Westfield area to be exceptionally slow at times.

If you would like to see this improved please add your vote by visiting http://www.racetoinfinity.bt.com/ and following the instructions.

1000 votes are needed to get the service improvements to Baldslow, so please spread the word and tell your friends as we do not want to lose out on the chance to improve our connection.

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’s Christmas event, the annual trip to the Weald of Kent on December 29 was won by Paul Burton in foggy conditions, maybe not being able to see helped his game!

The “Race to Headcorn” annual overall golfer of the year was won by Tim Linch, well done to him.

New venues are being planned, please watch this space for information. The European Tour 2011 is now confirmed as Bournemouth from June 12.

Please email [email protected] or telephone Nick on 07939 587796 for further information.

Rye and District Association of the National Trust had to cancel their Christmas Lunch on December 4 due to the bad weather.

It will now take place as a New Year’s Lunch on Saturday, January 8, and will still be held in The Orangery Restaurant at Powdermills Hotel near Battle.

The details remain as circulated to members in the Autumn Newsletter.

Members and friends who have not previously booked may still be able to do so by calling Ros Adkins on 01797 253763.

Rye & District Lions will be raising funds for local charities throughout the year.

Their sixth ‘Winter Warmer’ Brass Band Concert at Beckley Village Centre on January 21, with proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Tickets at £6, which include refreshment on arrival, will be on sale at Beckley Motors or on 0845 833 2825.

These concerts have been a complete sell-out for the last four years.

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

Please put this in your 2011 diary. Westfield Scouts are organising another Murder Mystery evening with the help of Rye Players at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall on Saturday, January 15, so reserve the date now.

This is for teams of about 6 people, and tickets (£6 to include supper but please bring your own drinks) will be on sale from January 3 from Scouts, Archers, or by ringing 01424 754080 or 753684.

To help with planning, for the foreseeable future could contributors please get any information to me by 10:00 am on the Sunday prior to publication.

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

George Sunderland, Heathlands

ROBERTSBRIDGE

Age Concern’s first meeting of the new year is January 10 in Robertsbridge Hall on Station Road from 10.30 - 2.30. Welcome back to all our members as well as any newcomers who would like to stop by for coffee and a chat.

Sue and myself would like to which everyone a happy healthy and prosperous 2011.

Our condolences go to Mrs Greenfield and family on their sad loss.

I would like to wish John Paine (Sue’s husband a speedy recovery from his op.

Ladies darts: We return to league action on Monday 10th January 2011 away at The Rose & Crown (Burwash)

Darts : Tonight is the Mens Pairs Knockout Cup.

Football: Tomorrow (8) the 1st team are away to AFC Peasmarsh & Iden at Iden Recreation while the 2nd team are away at Sandhurst. Both matches kick-off at 2p.m.

Sandie Madge & Sue Paine, The Floral Boutique, 20 High Street

MOUNTFIELD

I hope you all managed to have a good Christmas in spite of all the weather and travel difficulties, and wish you all a Happy and Healthier New Year.

Back to normality, Extend class will be on Monday 10th January 9.45am in the Village Hall. Newcomers very welcome.

Again on Monday 10th, Mountfield Lunch Club will be eating out together at Leeford Place, 12.30pm for 1pm. If you need a lift or wish to join us please ring me on 01580 880186 by Sunday teatime.

There will be a meeting of Mountfield Parish Council on Tuesday 11th January at 7.30pm in Mountfield Village Hall. Residents welcome to attend.

Ruby Willis, 1 Brickyard Cottages

CATSFIELD

This week the children go back to our Village School and we wish their new head teacher, Mrs Clark, success and happiness in her new role.

She inherits a well equipped and well supported school in the middle of the village, proudly displaying the date 1845 on the Victorian side of the old building, with a fine new hall rising behind it and a thriving community of children and staff within.

On Friday we start our exercise class, Extend, again at 11 am and the 55 Lunch Club meet for lunch at 12.30 pm – I feel hungry already!

During the week renewal forms for the Catsfield 100 club have gone round the village.

Victoria Crawshaw, the new organiser, says there are a few spare places for anyone who would like to join.

The annual sub is £12 per person, and qualifies you for the monthly draw of £25 and three draws of £100 for the year.

If you are interested get in touch with Victoria on 893711.

Subscriptions must reach Victoria by the 15th January to qualify for the February draw.

Even if you don`t win you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting the maintenance of our Village Hall by your contribution. Good luck!

Brian Roberts has asked me to mention that this month, the Whist Drive is on Friday 14th, not the 21st as usual, because the Pantomime is in the Hall over the weekend 20th, 21st and 22nd.

Talking of Pantomime, the WI party that went to Cinderella at the White Rock last Friday thoroughly enjoyed it.

One of the best pantomimes I have ever seen, enchanting, Jimmy Osmond was absolutely lovely!

Just some of the remarks made afterwards. It had such pretty romantic scenery, lovely costumes, with the Ugly Sisters outrageously dressed, and tiny children in the chorus of dancers, pages and animals, who must have loved being in the show.

The Fairy Godmother was sparkling and wonderful and produced a coach drawn by tiny white ponies.

Jimmy Osmond as Buttons gave a terrific performance and came out front to dance with members of the audience.

There were jokes, dancing and fun for everyone and the fireworks, water pistols and huge balls that were bounced into the audience thrilled the children – and adults.

What a treat it was to park outside the White Rock for 4 hours for £1.20, and feel really welcome to Hastings instead of being hounded by the Ugly Traffic Wardens.

Parish Communion this Sunday, for the Baptism of Christ, is at the usual time, 9.15 am.

Patricia Speedy, Longstone, Powdermill Lane

HURST GREEN

A combined Sunday service took place at Salehurst with the Reverend Lusted officiating.

We await official confirmation for the future of Holy Trinity which should be forthcoming shortly.

There were several members of the Hurst Green congregation present among a large number of Robertsbridge and Salehurst people where the Reverend Lusted is held in high regard.

It is regretted that the announcement in last week’s paper stated that there would be the usual service in Hurst Green and apologies to anyone who turned up expecting a 9.30 in Hurst Green.

This Sunday the Reverend Channer will take Holy Communion at 9.30.

A speedy recovery is wished to Mr. Graham Browne who is temporarily indisposed.

He works very hard for the village as Chairman of the Parish Council and in other capacities.

The village owes a deal of thanks to Graham and hopes he will take this opportunity to “put his feet up “ for a time.

It is good to know he has Tom and a band of sturdy helpers to carry on his farming until he is AI. and we can again see him driving, with the dog, the familiar blue tractor along the roads.

There will be a very important meeting of the Parish Council on January 11 to which it is hoped a large number of residents will come at the village hall 7.30.

The important item to be dealt with is the post office complex in the former R.C. church and local opinion, advice and help will be welcome.

Please do your best to attend.

There will be the annual historical society social on January 12. Hair can be let down! New members welcome at all times.

Due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control the total for the poppy collection has not yet been finalised but we understand that there is an increase in last year’s total.

There is a meeting on the first Thursday of the month at The Ostrich in Robertsbridge of the Royal British Legion at 7.30.

Members from Hurst Green do attend these informal gatherings and functions are arranged at times with Hurst Green joining Robertsbridge and Mountfield members. Social events include quiz nights, games evenings , music etc.

There is a wide section of people involved. Anyone interested will be more than welcome to turn up at The Ostrich on spec.

The Poppy Appeal is kept separate for each village but in other respects it is a combined effort to bring members together and keep the Royal British Legion flourishing locally.

A moment of finger wagging! Events and activities have taken place which were not given publicity in this column as their organising was not known.

To be wise after the event does not provide the much needed publicity in good time.

Please contact the number at the foot of this column and leave a message so that anything which requires publicity can be given due notice.

Nothing is too small to be mentioned. For example, a recent exhibition of children’s work took place in the church, more publicity for this would have been valuable and doubtless, many people would like to have visited it had they known about it.

Teknique Hair dressers is the place to take your gifts for our troops from where Helen will collect these items and dispatch them to Afghanistan.

She very kindly comes over from Battle to do this so do support this worth while cause with shower gel, sweets, crisps, soups, biscuits, roll on deodorants etc.

Chiropody Clinic Wednesday and Thursday. Jeremy Harris. 01797 230 251 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 01580 819 330 Maestro Babies (early music learning) 01580 880 135 Mobile Library calls at the Village Hall Friday 2.25 -3.15 Jempson’s Peasmarsh bus picks up at The George Tuesday at 1,25 There is a scheme to help elderly or disabled Council house 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

CAMBER

From next week I will compile a village voice for Camber.

If you have an event you would like to have published, please contact me by email at [email protected].

Larri Hayhurst, 18b Denham Way, Camber

NINFIELD AND HOOE

With Christmas and the 12th night past, you maybe wandering what to do with your real Christmas Trees and your cards. According to the Wealden District Council’s web site, plain cards (without glitter or glue) can be recycled as cardboard in our green bins provided.

Many high street stores such as WH Smith, TK Maxx, Marks & Spencer’s and Tesco act as card collection points each January for the Woodland Trust. Or you could use them for your tags next Christmas. Cut trees can be composted through the Crown, Crown Plastics or Crown Caddy recycling schemes (leave trees next to your Green Waste Bin) or by placing into one of the green waste skips at any Household Waste Recycling Site. Alternatively you could get creative.

Here are 5 top ideas on re-using your Christmas Tree from planetgreen.discovery.com:

1. Make a Wintry Potpourri

Simply mix some of the needles from your tree with some cinnamon sticks, cloves, dried orange peel, and maybe some eucalyptus, add a few drops of a matching essential oil, and cover for a week to let the scents blend. Place this great seasonal potpourri in small bowls around your home for a comforting, natural holiday-inspired scent.

2. Edge Your Garden Beds

If you have a rustic or cottage-style garden, you might want to try this frugal idea for edging your garden beds. Simply saw the trunk of your tree into two-inch thick rounds, and set them on edge (burying the bottom half into the soil) around your beds.

3. Make Some Coasters

Most Christmas tree trunks are just about the same diameter as your favorite cup or glass. This Easy seller makes them into coasters, varnished to protect tabletops from pine sap. It would be fairly simple to do this yourself with a saw, some sandpaper, and a little bit of time.

4. Make Rustic Tea Light Holders

If you love candlelight, you might want to try making votive candle holders from your Christmas tree trunk. These would work wonderfully in a rustic home, but the juxtaposition of the natural look of these votive holders in a modern home setting would be fun as well.

5. Decorate It for the Birds

Backyard birds are grateful for a bit of extra food during the winter months, and you can get a few more months to admire your tree using this tip. Remove all of the decorations, and move the tree, stand and all, into your garden. Decorate the tree with strung popcorn and cranberries, and make ornaments out of suet or peanut butter and birdseed (which would be a great project to do with kids, by the way!) As a bonus, birds can shelter in the tree if they need protection from harsh winter weather.

The East Sussex County Council Mobile Library service will next be in the villages on Saturday, January 8, 2011:

Hooe, opposite Denbigh Court, 1.50pm - 2.35pm.

Ninfield, Millfield (Manchester Road), 2.50pm - 3.25pm.

Ninfield, Downsview (Church Lane), 3.40pm - 4.05pm.

The Ninfield Flower Group are holding their AGM on January 10, 2011 at 7.30pm in the Memorial Hall. Anyone interested in flower arranging and would like to join the group or find out more about the group go along on the night or please contact [email protected]. Apologies, I had previously advertised this as January 4!

Hooe Parish Council will be holding their next parish council meeting on January 17, 2011 7.30pm at the Hooe Village Hall. All Hooe residents are invited to attend and share their views.

Ninfield Working Mens Club celebrated in the new year with iced grooves a disco and karaoke evening, about 60 members and their family’s attended.

The club has 232 members with this last year seeing the club going to brighton dog racing, Ardingly show and Hampton Court Flower show.

On Sunday January 16 they are off to the ice show at Brighton, with dining as well. On all these trips its get on the couch and enjoy the day!

They have numerous events during the year including quiz nights and country and western. In the club they have a snooker room, a billiard table and 2 dart boards.

There is a cupboard full of books and crayons for the children so hopefully parents can have a drink and chat with their friends.

If you would like to become a member, please go along to the tin hut in the field (Bexhill Road, opposite the old car washing place) and make yourself known . This coming year they will have monthly events going on so don’t miss out, its only down the road!

St Marys Church, Ninfield is holding their monthly Winter lunch on Wednesday January 19, 2011.

The lunches are held in the Reading Room, Church Lane 12pm to 1.30pm. There will be soup, bread, cheese, tea and coffee and a chance for a good chat. There is no charge for these lunches but a donation to charity is appreciated. For further information, please contact Elaine on 01424 846477.

The Ninfield Horticultural Society are having a meeting on January 19 at Ninfield Memorial Hall, 7.30pm. Colin Page will be demonstrating ‘Plants and Flowers’. For more information please contact Rose Franks 892422.

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). 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)

Ninfield Methodist Church - all services at 2.30m: January 9, 2011 Covenant Service including Holy Communion led by Revd. Stephen Maunder. January 16, 2011 Worship Service led by Revd Marion Proud. January 23, 2011 Worship Service led by Mrs Margaret Bickerdike. January 30, 2011 Worship Service led by Mr David Hanson.

Are you still pondering over a New Years resolution or wanting to join a new group to make new friends? Maybe you would like to get involved with/volunteer for or just try something new with one of the many local groups, there is something for everyone (even the kids):

Ninfield Bowls Club, contact Hon Secretary Mrs Val Smith, 843436; Ninfield Stool Ball, contact Linda Smith, 845163; Ninfield Flower Group, email [email protected]; Golden Circle, contact Jean Holmes 212663; Ninfield Neighbourhod Watch, contact Thelma Nance 892421; Ninfield Bonfire Society, contact Scott Reid on 07967326613 or email: [email protected]; Ninfield Carnival Association, contact Mhairi Munro-Parks on 893992; Brownies, contact Julia Wilkins 07508080608; Ninfield Horticultural Society, contact Rose Franks 892422; 1st Ninfield Scout Group, Scout Group Leader: Peter Mann, 07974 533663 Cub Scout Leader: Adam Shoesmith, 07970 228906 Asst. Beaver Scout Leader: Peter Mann, 07974 533663; Hooe Bellringers, contact Simon Pattisson 845087; Hooe Open Group contact Edna Wallis 842591; Arthritis Research Campaign contact Ann Martyr 892593; Christian Women’s Fellowship contact Pam Doodes, 892329; Ninfield Parish Council, contact Jess Wilks, Parish Council Clerk Tel: 07725843505 or email [email protected]; Hooe Parish Council, contact Graeme Bower, Parish Council Clerk 01424 892927 email [email protected]; Ninfield Youth Forum, contact Sam Guard 893699 or Kaye Crittell 892883; Ninfield Memorial Hall Committee, contact Adrian Dommersen (Chairman) 892428 ; HOOE SPORTS FOOTBALL CLUB, contact via clubwebsite.co.uk/hooesports; Ninfield United Football Club, contact First team Manager - Tony Carroll Mob 07988697952, Second team Manager - Darren Horton Mob 07891467902; Ninfield Village Society, contact Robin Goldsmith, Treasurer, 01424 892778; Ninfield Working Mens Club, turn up at hut (Bexhill Road, opposite the old car wash). I hope that there is something here that maybe of interest for you.

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

SEDLESCOMBE

Happy New Year to you all, and hope you were able to spend some time with family and friends enjoying the festivities together.

It has seemed a long holiday this year from Christmas over to 2011 though, I think that is possibly due to those hibernating tendencies we seem to have when the light fades and we shut our curtains for the evening, and it is still only 5 o’clock!

To get us out of this malaise we start the New Year with plenty of activities in the village to get us all out and about and thinking about the year ahead.

Here is an event to help cast aside those winter blues, Sedlescombe Green WI will be hosting a barn dance at the village hall on Saturday January 29 at 7.30pm.

The caller will be Janice Bolton and the evening should prove to be great fun. Tickets which will include supper are just £5 adults, £3 Children and you are welcome to bring your own drinks.

There hasn’t been a barn dance in the village for quite a few years now, so tickets may be in short supply, to get yours please contact Margaret on 870808, Sylvia on 870688 or collect direct from Sedlescombe stores.

Sedlescombe and District Flower Club held their AGM in December and Sheila Benson will once again be Chairman this year.

The first meeting of 2011 at the village hall on Wednesday 12th January will be a practice meeting, entitled Winter Wonderland, when those who wish to take part are invited to come along with everything of their choice to do an arrangement.

It is, of course, not compulsory to take part in this during the evening however the more that take part the more fun for everyone and the chance to learn off each other.

Even if you choose not to practice please do attend this enjoyable evening though and support the club.

Tickets for the Sedlescombe Players’ Little shop of Horrors have sold extremely fast. There may be tickets available for the performances on Wednesday 16 Feb, Thursday 17 Feb and Friday 18 Feb.

Please call 01424 718059 for further details and availability . Tickets are priced at £12.50 each and include supper, wines and soft drinks will be available to purchase.

Please be reminded that if you have reserved tickets for any of the performances these will need to be paid for by January 10 or they will be put back for resale. This will be a memorable evening for Sedlescombe so don’t miss it!

Don’t forget that from 10 January 2011, cardboard can be disposed of in the green bins for composting recycling, after many months the waste and recycling team at Rother has reached agreement with Verdant and the County Council on the collection of cardboard.

This has been a goal of the Council for some time and they have now managed to resolve it - at no extra cost to the taxpayer. Anthony Ganly is the cabinet member with responsibility for waste and recycling and he is really delighted that a solution has now been found.

Friends of Sedlescombe Church Trust will be presenting “Sedlescombe’s got Talent” and you are invited to take part in the evening.

There will be our own panel of judges and super prizes to win on the night. Do you sing, play, recite, juggle, or have another talent you would like to share?

Then please register your interest with Jean Dann on 882438 or Anthony Rand on 870722.

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 contact me by email to [email protected] or by calling 870344.

Judy Torrance, Asselton House

BREDE

The Farmers’ Market re-opens today at 10am

Brede Players open the 2011 programme of events in the village with their New Year offering of a fairytale entitled “Many Moons” instead of the usual pantomime.

Tickets have been on sale but there will probably some available at the door.

Performances are today (Friday) at 7.30 pm and tomorrow (Saturday) at 2.30 and 7.30 pm.

During the coming week Brede W.I. will have their meeting on Wednesday, 12th, in the Hall at 2.00 pm and on Thursday, 13th, Brede Friendly Circle begin their 50th Anniversary year with a talk by Pat Whiting and Maureen Thompson on the subjects of “Silver” and “Wedgwood Jasperware”.

The meeting is at 7.30 pm, also in the Hall. Visitors are welcome to both meetings.

Later in the month, on Saturday, 29th, the annual Quiz Evening, run by the Friends of St. George, is being held in the Village Hall.

Entrance is £7.50 (including supper) with teams of up to eight people. Tables can be booked by calling Marion on 01424-751165.

Some more Courses for Adults begin shortly in Rye for Practical Gardening, the Bloomsbury Group, the History of Art featuring Constable and Turner and Drawing made Easy.

Courses are £75 for 10 meetings and for more information please contact Susie Martin on 07798-558430.

Also on offer is Musicwell, a new venture which is a Community Singing Group for all ages and abilities being held fortnightly on Tuesdays from 11th January at the Rye Club, Market Road, Rye from 5.30 to 7.00 pm.

There will also be a Drumming Circle from 13th January at the F.E. Centre in Lion Street from 5.15 to 6.45 pm.

For all the details please phone 01797-227994 or online it is www.themusicwell.org.uk.

The Mobile Library returns to its normal visiting pattern next week after the Christmas break.

It will be stopping on Tuesday, 11th, 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, 13th, 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 on Sunday, 9th, with Holy Communion on Wednesday, 12th, at 10.00 am, Thursday, 13th, and Friday, 14th, at 9.00 am.

Trinity Methodist Church continues at Broad Oak this Sunday, 9th, for their regular service at 11.00 am which will be conducted by Mrs. Jill Sayers.

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

Saturday, 8th: Brede Players (2.30 and 7.30 pm); Monday, 10th: Age Concern (10.30 am), Rainbows (4.30 pm), Brownies (5.30 pm), Whist Drive (7.30 pm); Tuesday, 11th: Painting for Pleasure (10.00 am); Wednesday, 12th: East Sussex County Council (all day), Brede Womens Institute (Small Hall 2.00 pm); Thursday, 13th: East Sussex County Council (all day), Brede Friendly Circle (7.30 pm); Friday, 14th: Farmers’ Market (10.00 am), Short Mat Bowls (7.30 pm).

Scout Hut, Stubb Lane: Monday, 10th: Beavers (5.30 pm) and Cubs (6.45 pm); Tuesday, 11th: Scouts (7.00 pm).

The Friends of St George’s, Brede are holding their annual quiz evening at Brede Village Hall on Saturday January 29 at 7.30pm

Teams up to eight. Entrance £7.50 including fish & chip supper. To book your table please call Paul Pryke on 01424 882041 or Marion Firman on 01424 751165

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

John May, Mill Lands

IDEN

Iden Church was able to hold its annual Carol Service on Wednesday 29 December, having been postponed by snow and ice the previous week.

Despite the delay, the Church was packed to hear the Iden Singers and the usual Christmas readings.

This was followed by minced pies and mulled wine served by the Friends of Iden Church.

The collection raised a magnificent £400 and as in past years will be donated to the Water Aid Charity.

Susannah would like to thank once again all the singers who had worked hard in recent weeks, sometimes battling the weather to attend practices.

It is hoped that there will be another concert in March “In Celebration of Water” to mark the opening of the Old Hall.

On Sunday 2 January the vicar and congregation went in procession after the morning service to the Old Hall for its rededication following its extensive renovation.

Rod Stuart showed a slide show of the various photographs he had been taking during the rebuilding.

Although work still needs to be done to equip the Old Hall, the main work has now been finished, despite the frustrations of the various hold ups caused by the ice and snow during the past month .

This historic building once housed the village blacksmith and then the village hall until this was re-sited in the early 1950s.

During past years the building had been let but had fallen into considerable disrepair.

For a long time the church has been in need of toilet, catering and meeting facilities which will now be available from the Old Hall and all members of the community will be able to use it once it is fully ready for occupation.

A formal opening ceremony will be held in due course when the many donors and supporters will be invited.

It is wonderful to know that at long last this building has now been brought back to life and will once again play an important role in village life.

If something had not been done soon, then it would have become totally unusable and unsafe and would probably have fallen down

Anne Haward has asked me once again to thank all those generous people who have helped her raise the monies required for the village sign. This is now being made and will be erected in the spring.

Finally, do not forget that the Iden and Playden Garden Society will be holding its annual Social Evening on Friday 21 January at 7.30pm in Iden Village Hall.

Please telephone Yvonne Metcalf on 280205 if you require details and would like to join the society- it is only £5pa!

Members of the Iden and Playden Garden Society are invited to the Annual Party in Iden Village Hall on Friday 21st January at 7.30 pm.

You are asked to bring a plate of food to share, drinks both alcoholic and soft will be provided.

Members’ guests are welcome and are asked to contribute £2.50. Donations for Raffle Prizes will be welcomed.

The 9.30 am service will be Parish Communion.

Marion Lovell, Abingworth, New England Lane, Playden

WINCHELSEA

Oscar Wilde’s ‘Canterville Ghost’ theatre production takes place this evening (Friday) at 7 pm in St Thomas’ Church.

Tickets are £9 Adults, £5.50 Under 16s and available on the door. There will be a bar and proceeds are in aid of Winchelsea Bonfire.

News from the monthly ‘Winchelsea Flyer’ is that Winchelsea is to feature on BBC TV on Monday 10th January at 7.30 pm.

The programme is ‘Inside Out’ and concerns a medieval hero, Wilikin of the Weald who besieged a French army in Old Winchelsea during the Barons War.

If possible - watch it!

The Second Wednesday Society meets on Wednesday 12th January, 2.30 pm in the New Hall.

A talk has been arranged on the author of Alice in Wonderland entitled: ‘Lewis Carroll The Hastings Connection’ and it will be given by Edward Preston. Non-members are welcome to join the group.

Rye & Winchelsea National Trust Centre continues its winter Talks season with ‘The Life and Work of E.F. Benson’ by Allan Downend.

From the 1920’s E.F. Benson lived in Lamb House (Rye) and wrote his famous Mapp and Lucia books which were set in Rye.

The Talk is on Thursday 20th January and as usual is held at Beckley Village Hall commencing at 2.30 pm.

Entrance fee is £2 (members) and £3 (non-members) and includes refreshments after the Talk.

A meeting has been convened by the ward councillors on Saturday 22nd January at 10.30 am in the New Hall.

This is to discuss possible arrangements for celebrating Prince William’s wedding in April this year, as well as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

All the clubs, societies and businesses in the town have been invited to send a representative and all households are invited.

If you cannot attend but have ideas or would like to help please contact any of the ward councillors.

Winchelsea Singers are having a fun performance called ‘Around the World in 80 Minutes’ on Friday 28th January, 2 pm and Saturday 29th January, 7pm in the New Hall.

Friday’s performance costs £8 (refreshments available) and Saturday’s performance is £15 and includes a 2 course supper and there will be a bar.

Tickets can be purchased from Winchelsea Post Office or Tel: 01797 223159.

Also note that bookings are essential for the Saturday performance.

Last Saturday’s first Church Market of the year raised £175.90 for Church funds and thanks to all who supported the event.

The next Church Market will be on 5th February, same time and place.

Other successful fund raising events over Christmas were the church collections from the Nine Lessons & Carols (which raised £243.25) and the Crib Service (£227.65) together making £470.90 for St Nicholas Fellowship.

Carol Singing around the parish brought in £350 which was gratefully received by the charity Shelter, with thanks to the singers who braved the cold night and all who gave generously.

It was fine weather on Boxing Day and the annual Anciente Streete Gayme of Winchelsea went ahead.

A large number of spectators turned up which was an increase from last year’s big gathering and the three teams included an Australian team which had travelled from St Leonards.

As usual the game was exciting and vigorous and the scores were approximately as prearranged i.e., 6, 9 and 7.

With the rise in VAT and petrol costs starting the New Year here are some useful tips for saving on petrol:

Keep your tyres inflated (helps to decrease drag) Declutter your car – the lighter it is the less effort needed to accelerate; Remove your roof rack (avoids drag)

Turn off air con. (it uses a vast amount of fuel) however it is the better option to opening your windows as that causes extra drag; no air con and closed windows is the most efficient (if you can bear it)

Don’t fill up (fuel is heavy – the less fuel the more efficient the car drives; just fill up to a half or three-quarters of a tank at a time)

Accelerate gradually without over-revving (the harder you press on the accelerator the more fuel you spend)

Drive in the correct gear; Slow naturally (avoid braking all the time) and consider your road position.

Other alternatives are, buy a car that is not run on petrol, walk/cycle or build more light railways similar to the Docklands.

Also any additional thoughts on the matter would be appreciated.

Cindi Cogswell, 31, High Fords, Icklesham

PLAYDEN

Since yesterday was Twelfth Night, homes might be looking a bit bare without the cards, decorations and Christmas trees.

On the other hand, some people might be pleased to have the house back to a more normal state.

I don’t know the origin of the tradition that it brings bad luck to have all of those things still up after 6th January.

Having had time away with family, I haven’t had the opportunity to say that I hope you all enjoyed the holiday, and to wish you a happy, healthy, prosperous, full-of -exciting-challenges New Year.

Playden held its postponed Carol Service on Sunday with traditional readings and congregational carols, and a goodly crowd of people to join in.

Susannah was back on form to play the organ for the singing.

Iden and Playden Garden Society will be inviting members to the January Social to be held on Friday 21st January, at 7.30 pm in Iden Village Hall.

It is free to members, members’ guests are asked to pay £2.50 to come.

Everyone is asked to bring a plate of food to share. Drinks will be provided.

There will be a raffle, for which donations are very welcome.

May I remind you of the Friends of Playden Church January Party?

This is to be on Saturday 22nd January in Playden W.I.Hall at 7.30 pm. The theme is to be Party Hats, decorated as takes your fancy.

Please bring a plate of something savoury to share, desserts will be provided by the committee.

Probably games and competitions will take place, so come along and enjoy the fun.

The Rye Branch of the WEA has a series of courses beginning this month.

Today, Friday, Practical Gardening begins a term of 10 meetings from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Community Learning Centre, Lion Street, formerly known as the FE Centre.

The cost for the term is £75. The Tutor is Jackie White.

On Monday 10th January, from 2 - 4 pm at Rye Art Gallery, 107, High Street, Rye, a term of 10 meetings to study The Bloomsbury Group will be led by Geoff Doel. The cost is £75.

On Tuesday 11th, from 10.30am to 12.30 pm, tutor Frank Ferrie will lead 10 meetings on the History of Art - Constable and Turner. The cost is £75, venue Rye Art Gallery.

On Wednesday 12th, 10 am to 12 noon, Drawing will be Made Easy with tutor Sarah Flack, again in the Art Gallery, costing £75.

Burning Issues of the Day will be discussed at monthly meetings beginning on 6th January so unfortunately you may have missed the first one.

They take place on Thursdays from 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm and there are just 4 three-hour sessions.

The tutor is David Alfred and the cost is £15 per session, venue Rye Art Gallery.

There will be a Day School at Rye Lawn Tennis Club, Military Road, on The Story of the English Garden with Tutor Gerald Harvey.

This an all-day course on Tuesday 4th April from 10.15 am to 4.15 pm. The cost, including lunch, is £40.

Advance booking is recommended and for further information please ring Susie Martin on 07798 558 430 or Jackie White on 01424 815 292.

Any of the above offer the opportunities for new friendships, new interests and fun.

Cross and Crescent may be re-running for 10 weeks - ask Susie Martin.

And finally, the Drumming Circle for all ages and abilities runs on the first Thursday of each month from 5.15 to 6.45 pm in the FE Centre, Lion Street, Rye.Enquiries to www.themusicwell.orguk or phone 01797 22 79 94.

Continuing with music, there will be a Community Singing Group on Tuesdays, fortnightly from 5.30 to 7 pm beginning on 11th January at Rye Club, Market Road.

There are lots of places to re-cycle cards, but the boxes should not have glitter cards put in them.

Starting next week, cardboard may be put into green wheelie bins along with the garden stuff for composting.

My own garden bin is usually so full, that I will be hard pressed to get cardboard in and will continue going to Budgens on a Thursday between 5 and 6 pm to the Lions collecting point.

The service on Sunday will be Parish Communion for the first Sunday of Epiphany.

Marion Lovell, Abingworth, New England Lane

NORTHIAM

One of the delights of learning a new skill is being able to recognize the talent in others, and I have got a great deal of pleasure this year (even more than usual) from the flower arrangements in the church over Christmas.

Having spent a day learning at the feet of the masters, it was great to see these ideas on a grand scale.

And even more impressive is the way that everything has lasted so beautifully over such a long period – I think the freezing weather may have helped!

As I write, the odd flake of snow is drifting down, but I do hope we can have a few weeks to get back to normal.

If so, we restart badminton clubs this evening (Friday) in the Pretious Sports Hall at 5.30pm (Primary school-age), 6.30pm (Secondary school age) and 8pm (Adults). Dance Club meets in the Village Hall at 7.30pm for Sequence Dancing.

The Footpath Group leaves the surgery car park at 10.40am on Saturday, heading to Brickwall Hotel, Sedlescombe for a short walk before sitting down to lunch at 1pm. Booked places only, please.

Booked places again for the Rye & District Association of the National Trust’s New Year’s Lunch at The Orangery, Powdermills Hotel near Battle.

The Village Hall Trust begins the New Year with a Boot Fair on Sunday, starting at 9am.

Please call Marie Edwards (01797 253264) if you would like to book a stall for any of the monthly Boot Fairs.

Rye Harbour Nature Reserve are organising a circular walk on Sunday, starting at 10.30am in Rye Harbour car park, taking a close look at winter birds with a good chance of seeing Golden Plover and perhaps a Peregrine hunting them!

The 2 mile walk will take about 3 hours – bring lunch. Donations appreciated.

On Sundays throughout January, Bodiam Castle suggests you blow away the cobwebs with a one hour guided tour around the grounds and castle led by one of their Medieval characters, followed by a two course roast lunch in the Terrace Room.

Gates open 11am, with tours from 11.30am – 2.30pm. All tickets £25.

All the clubs are back by Monday, and there will be Yoga, Shortmat Bowls and Pilates in the Village Hall, with Badminton in the Pretious Sports Hall at 5.45pm.

The new Bridge Club starts on Monday (10th) and will welcome anyone who would like to join.

This is a Chicago Bridge club, and weekly sessions will be held in the Jenkins Room of Northiam Village Hall 2-5pm.

The annual subscription will be £10, and session fees £2 per afternoon. Refreshments will be provided.

All ACOL bridge players from Northiam or further afield are welcome, and you can go on your own, or with a partner, as you prefer.

The only requirement is that you come ready to play Chicago (not rubber) bridge in a friendly and relaxed spirit.

You are very welcome to just turn up, or contact Judith O’Connor (25114) or Eve Willard (253431) to sign up, or e-mail [email protected].

Toddlers meet in the Pretious Sports Hall on a Tuesday morning between 9.15am and 11.15am with many activities, a healthy snack and the chance to meet new friends.

Tuesday is the evening for exercise to music, and the Street Dance, Hip Hop and Funky Dance sessions will be back 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.

Northiam and District Historical and Literary Society welcomes back Don Dray on Tuesday for The Dancing Decades.

The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the Village Hall and is open to visitors (£2 at the door).

Wednesday brings us Pilates in the Village Hall (ring Sarah 01424 882285 if you would like to join), followed by Shortmat Bowls and Karate.

The Footpath Group leaves the surgery car park at 9.30am, heading to Rye for a 6½ mile walk – Cinque Ports Circular.

Members will take lunch in Rye at the end of the walk.

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. Gymnastics Club meets in the Pretious Sports Hall at 6.15pm.

The Thursday Seniors’ Club resumes on 13th after quite a long break, so I am sure that members and helpers will be keen to get back together and catch up on the news.

Anyone who would like to join this happy band should ring Ann (252343) or Jane (252973).

Transport can usually be provided, and wheelchairs are no problem.

Every week, there is a varied programme, but there is always the opportunity to do some gentle exercise, have toe and fingernails cut professionally as well as enjoying a home-cooked meal and some entertainment.

The club is visited by a Chiropodist, and hearing aids can be serviced and batteries supplied.

This week, the Citizens Advice Bureau will be available to anyone who needs help, between 10am and 12 noon in the back room of the Village Hall.

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

Parishioners are always very welcome to attend as observers.

Next Saturday, the Village Hall Trust will be holding a Jumble Sale, so use this opportunity to have a clear-out to make room for all your lovely new Christmas things.

Donations can be taken to the Hall between 10am and noon, with the Sale opening at 2.30pm.

Don’t forget to book your choice of entertainment for Friday 21st January.

The Conservation Society’s Wine and Wisdom evening will be held in Northiam Village Hall.

To book your place (singly or in teams of up to 8) telephone Lynn or Mervyn on 253443.

The cost of £6 per person includes light refreshments, and there will be a bar and raffle.

Rye and District Lions’ Winter Warmer brass band concert with Sussex Brass will be held in Beckley Village Centre at 7.45pm. Tickets at £6 are available from Beckley Motors or phone 0845 8332825.

The concert is held in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, and is always very popular, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Church Services (9th): 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Holy Communion

Karen Ayling, The White House, Dixter Road

WHATLINGTON

Last Sunday 30 members of the Parish Church sat down to lunch together at The Royal Oak, to say farewell to Canon Alan and also to use this occasion as a social gathering.

We enjoyed the hospitality of Alex and Mike who produced a delicious three course meal which we enjoyed sitting by the log fire which was well ablaze and smelt lovely.

On Sunday afternoon the much awaited village meeting took place, in the warmth of the Village Hall, with a discussion and presentation concerning the restoration of St. Mary Magdalene Church, which everyone will know was devastated by a fire in July of last year.

An Evensong service took place at 4pm with light refreshments following, before power point presentation was made detailing the plans for the restoration.

I do not have a copy of the presentation to hand at the moment and there fore will let you have the details of it next week.

I can tell you that it included details about the roof, flooring and seating.

The meeting was very well attended, but many people did not come to the service and missed the refreshments and the first part of the presentation, because of the timing, which was disappointing.

However we were pleased to see so many local people attending this meeting because it showed that they cared about their church.

Discussions and questions followed and most people’s concern was over whether there would the pews in church would they be replaced by pews or chairs.

There was also some concern over whether the Lectern and Pulpit would be returned to the church.

Many of the concerns raised could not be answered at the moment as phase 1 is the roof and this is the phase the church is at , at the moment.

It is hoped that a further meeting will be held when more is known and plans have been drawn up for the church.

Several comments were made that some people felt that there was a division between the church members and those attending the meeting from the village .

Theoretically there should be no division between anybody but if I was truthful and these are my own thoughts, I could say that there possibly could be a division in one’s thoughts.

I do not live in Whatlington and yet I support this village much more than some of those who live in the Village.

You could say that I do this by choice, and yes I do, do it by choice, and we all have choices, it is our right, but how many of the people who live in the village actually support the Parish Church?

The Parish Church is supported by a high percentage of people who live outside of the village.

When the Parish Church has coffee mornings, cream teas etc, to raise the necessary funds to keep the church open, the main support comes from our friends outside of the village and yet the church is expected to be there for Christenings, Weddings & Funerals.

This does not only happen in this village, of course, I would think, but all over the country.

I wonder if you realise just how much work has been done in the church, over recent years and all the work has been done voluntarily.

The church has been completely painted inside, all the doors sanded and coated, the back of the church renovated, the bells room painted, the floors scrubbed and coated etc and the organ loft was undergoing a clean and painting before the fire.

The churchyard is kept in very good condition, mowed and tidied up, so that the building looks well cared for.

This is completed mainly by people from outside of the village so I can see why there may be a little resentment in my thoughts, creeping in, when I think that this beautiful church, which belongs to the people of Whatlington is not supported by many of the people of Whatlington.

However I am very grateful to those who do support the church on a regular basis, for without their support the church would not survive.

I am also grateful to those who have purchased the Christmas cards which were sold on behalf of the Appeal Fund.

I have sold approx. 2400 cards and raised £349.00 which has been credited to the Appeal Fund account.

(I already have an order for 150 cards for this coming Christmas.) I have also been able to credit the monies I have received for writing the Village Voice to the Appeal Fund which totalled £450.00 for the year.

There was also some concern at the meeting that The Appeal Fund monies were not separate from the church monies.

I can assure you that this is not the case and a separate account has been set up for the Appeal Fund and as stated right from the beginning, this money will be used to bring running water up to the church, very much a priority, in view of why the church is being restored, a toilet and a kitchenette, both necessary to make people welcome to our church.

Sometime soon I will be able to give you firm costs for these provisions, the roof being the priority at this time.

I wonder if you realise that the cost of insuring our church is meet by those who support the church financially, and costs over £650.00 per year.

Will the church be in competition with the Village Hall for venues?

This also was asked at the meeting and it can be stated categorically that it is not.

The church would like a toilet and kitchen for its own use, to make the congregation feel welcome and comfortable, to be able to offer refreshments after services.

It would be advantageous if the church and the people of Whatlington respected each others needs and worked together in restoring their historical, beautiful church and make it a place for worship, which will be suitable and welcoming for future generations.

We have been given this unique opportunity to do this and whatever we may feel ourselves we need to work together to restore OUR church.

The Good Companions will be visiting The Wheatsheaf in Little Common on Wednesday to enjoy their Christmas lunch, which was postponed in December, because of the bad weather.

Although this is the second Sunday of the month, there will no Family Service this Sunday, as this will be the last Parish Communion that Canon Alan conducts in our Parish before he leaves.

Parish Communion will be at 8.30am in the Village Hall. All are most welcome.

Please do email at [email protected] if you have an event which you would like put into your Village Voice.

Your articles are valued and much appreciated.

Hilda Aplin, Lismoyne Oakhurst Road

NETHERFIELD

Netherfield Church – Just to confirm that we are now back to normal with our services after all the festivities. Sunday 9th January will be a Holy Communion at 10 a.m. The following week we shall be joining Mountfield for a Holy Communion at 10 a.m. and then on the 23rd, Netherfield will welcome Mountfield for a combined Holy Communion, also at 10 am. 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. Eyes down at 7.30pm. Don’t forget our special offer of fish and chips served with peas for only £4.95, food is served from 6pm till 9pm, you can place your order for half time.

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. The lads have had no games recently but hope to resume ‘play’ soon. 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. 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 7th January and on Friday 21st January 2011.

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

Maria Standen, Swallow Farm

PEASMARSH

A quiet week – but I’m not complaining!

A reminder that the Rye branch of the Worker’s Educational Association has a new programme for the New Year - there are a variety of courses available, please get in touch with them by phoning Susie Martin on 07798 558430, or email [email protected].

Also starting in Rye is a new venture ‘The Music Well’, which has a Community Singing Group and a Drumming Circle – for information on these please ring 01797 227994 or check out the website – www.themusicwell.org.uk

Also don’t forget the Pampered Chef evening at the Pre School on Wednesday 19th Jan 2011 at 7.30pm - all welcome.

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

WINCHELSEA BEACH

St Richard’s Fellowship Lunch will be on Friday 28th January at 12 for 12.30 pm in the Community Hall, with proceeds in support of Rye Memorial Hospital.

Booking is essential for the lunch and you should contact Joan Phillips on 01797 227394.

Following the beginning of the school term (on Wednesday 5th January) a reminder for mums is that the Mums & Toddlers Group meets on Tuesdays during term time.

The next get-together is on 11th January from 12.30 pm until 2.30 pm in the Community Hall and any mum is welcome to come along.

You can ring Natalie Eldridge on 07817962680 or just turn up on a Tuesday.

St Richard’s Church holds an Evening Prayer service on the first Sunday in the month and is routinely followed by refreshments.

All are welcome to the next Evening Prayer meeting which will be on Sunday 6th February at 3 pm.

Cindi Cogswell, 31, High Fords, Icklesham

UDIMORE

TODAY the new ten week term of WEA courses starts with “Practical Gardening” from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the old Further Education Centre, Lion Street, Rye.

This is a course intended for seasoned gardeners, as well as complete beginners and includes practical advice on plant propagation, pest control and many other topics. The tutor is Jackie White.

Three other courses are beginning next week, all at the Rye Art Gallery, in the High Street. “The Bloomsbury Group” (tutor Geoff Doel) starts on Monday, 2pm to 4pm, “History of Art, Constable and Turner” (tutor Frank Ferrie) starts on Tuesday, 10.30am to 12.30pm, and “Drawing Made Easy” (tutor Sarah Flack) starts on Wednesday, 10am till noon.

If you would like to apply for places on any of these courses, please first contact Susie Martin (07798 558430, or [email protected]) except for today’s course, for which you should just turn up (if you happen to have read this in time).

My apologies for this very short notice. We were away for Christmas and only heard the above details on our return home.

THE other local news which greeted us on our return is that the two footpaths in the Brede Valley which cross the railway just South of Float Farm have both been closed, and won’t reopen till January 21 at the earliest.

This is to enable Network Rail to carry out some work on the track. So for the time being we won’t be able to walk to Winchelsea by this route, or to the Queen’s Head, Icklesham (or indeed to The Plough from Icklesham).

For news of the reopening of these footpaths (and of repairs to the nearby footbridge over the Brede) please watch this space.

FROM 10am till noon on Tuesday, January 11, please make the most of the opportunity to support the Fair Trade stall in St Mary’s Community Hall.

Richard Holmes, Beauchamps

ICKLESHAM

This Sunday’s Parish Eucharist is at 10.30 and is taken by the Reverend David Fentiman.

The deadline for February’s Parish Magazine in next Wednesday January 12.

On Tuesday 11 recycling collectors will for the first time take cardboard.

The cardboard has to be flattened. It must not have food waste on it or have other packaging materials such as polystyrene foam or plastic windows on.

However it can be large as long as you can get in the green wheelie bin.

The garden waste can still be put in the green wheelie bin. The green boxes are also collected on Tuesday.

As well as the usual newspapers and magazines you can put in small amounts of cards as long as they do not have glitter or foil and wrapping paper.

The black boxes will also go. At this time of year plastic bottles with their tops removed ,steel and aluminium cans and empty aerosols are plentiful.

The lady distributing a pamphlet opposing the proposed and disputed extension to Lydd Airport was amazed that many people in Icklesham did not realise that if the extension went ahead this village would be under the flight paths of large jets en route to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean. There are arguments both for and against this project.

Quite a contrast - there are Goldcrests in gardens in the village.

If you have conifers where they roost in the warmth of the foliage and eat the minutest of insects and spiders you have a better chance of seeing Europe’s smallest bird.

It’s not its size which make it unmistakable but its smart crest either orange on the male or bright yellow on the female.

Just 3 inches (6 cm) long the full-grown bird weighs about 6 grams which isn’t many ounces..

They frequently feeding with blue tits which are twice their size.

Yet in winter goldcrests from Europe fly across the North Sea to increase the numbers.

Laurie Bowman, Magpies, Oast House Field

PETT

Marsham Older Peoples Project – in last week’s issue, included in the report on the Pett Parish Council Meeting on 21 December, reference was made to the fact that MOPP was looking for alternative premises given the growth in numbers. Village Voice has now learnt that this is not the case and Fairlight Village Hall will continue to be used. Please accept my apologies for any confusion caused.

Church Services on Sunday 9th January – Covenant Service, Methodist Chapel at 10:45am.

Pett Gardening Club will meet on Tuesday 11th January at 7:30pm at Pett Village Hall.

The meeting will include the AGM, membership renewals, Sutton seed orders and programme/forthcoming events.

In addition Chris Hutt will give a talk on his plans for the coming year. New members are always welcome.

The Mobile Library will be in Pett and Pett Level on Wednesday 12th January.

It will start at the Church at 10.20am, moving on to Chick Hill at 11.10am and finishing at The Smuggler at 11.45am.

On Sunday 16th January Boathouse, the performing arts project for young adults (16+) who are supported in education/training in the Hastings and Rye areas of East Sussex, will hold its first ever session in Pett Village Hall.

The theme for the first term is ‘Carnival’ and there will be a performance before Easter in the Village Hall.

Classes are from 10:30am to 12:30pm (arrive for 10:15am) and there will be a nominal cost to participants of £3 per week.

For further details contact Kim Barry on 01424 815046 or email: [email protected]

Mary Saint, Pett Road

FAIRLIGHT

Now you sees it, now you don’t! Or ‘no chain stops play’. Between 12.30pm Thursday 30th December and 8.45am Friday 31st December a large section, 27ft x 9ft (8 mtrs x 2.7 mtrs) of chain link fencing surrounding the tennis court was carefully cut and removed by thieves.

The missing section ran behind the benches and is very large and difficult to carry. It could be cut and reused for fencing elsewhere.

Did you see any activity between those times or have you seen any thing suspicious? If so please contact 01424 814178 with any information.

The court was built and maintained by members fund raising and is enjoyed by many residents of the area.

Yes now. The read through of the Fairlight Players next production, ‘Not now Darling’, is this Monday 10 January 7.30 in the Village Hall.

This is a new idea for The Fairlight Players to give interested parties the chance to get to know the play before the auditions, which are on Thursday 13 January, also 7.30 in the Village Hall.

If you are unable to make both sessions you can express an interest in a part, either on stage or back stage, at either evening.

We will need décor; wardrobe, set builders and many other back stage roles as well as actors.

If you just want to know what goes on feel free to turn up.

A bit of TLC. The Tuesday Ladies Club has a full afternoon planned for their next meeting on Tuesday 18 January.

There will be A Review of 2010, a Lace Making demonstration and a Quiz. Non members are welcome as visitors for just £2.

A life on the ocean wave. The Literary Society have an interesting afternoon planned for Wednesday 12 January with a talk on The Cutty Sark by Rodger Mckenna. This is held at 2.30 as always in the Village Hall.

As well as the talk there are refreshments and a raffle. Visitors are welcome for just £1.

The Gardening Club saw in the New Year with their seasonal social last Monday 3 January. Although all the coughs and colds kept the numbers down a bit a good afternoon was had by all with two plays, a quiz and a super tea.

A ladies watch has been found in Smugglers Way Fairlight. If you have lost one please ring me on 01424 814178.

A white husky dog turned up at The Cove pub with out it’s owner. Although it was micro chipped the chip has not been registered.

If you have lost your dog contact the Cove pub who will dirct you to where the dog is staying.

That is all for this week except to wish you all a very Happy Healthy New Year and to keep the bits of club news coming in.

Keith Pollard, Brookfield, Broadway