Ashford Voice Summer 2010

NEWS•LIFE•INFO

www.ashford.gov.uk

Ashford arts on the up

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20

10

INSIDE...New decade, new Council Leader

Summer sights and sounds

Things to do this summer

Competitions

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www.ashford.gov.uk2 ASHFORD VOICE SUMMER 2010

Welcome back to Ashford Voice, your borough

magazine delivered straight to your doorstep. It’s full

of features on living, working and enjoying life in

Ashford and the surrounding communities.

In this issue we meet Cllr Paul Bartlett, the new man at the helm of

Ashford Borough Council, and meet the new Executive, the top level

leadership at the council.

When it comes to music, art and culture there’s plenty to enjoy this

summer. Find out more in our feature on the sights and sounds in our

borough this summer.

We’ve compiled a list of great things to do this summer. To win the

chance to enjoy some of them for free simply check out our

competitions page.

Ashford looks set to get even greener. Find out about the plans to

create three new fantastic open spaces we’ll be able to enjoy as the

town grows.

Remember, Ashford Voice is your voice and we like to hear your

comments or suggestions for articles or features about life in our

borough so please keep your letters and emails coming in.

Welcome

Contact the editorial team: Email: [email protected]

Call: 01233 330209

Fax: 01233 330597

Write: Ashford Voice, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23 1PL

CreditsDesign:The Design Practice, Ashford

Editorial: Ashford Voice

Print:Headley Brothers, Ashford

Printed on 100% recycled paper

Cover Photo:Local artist Oliver Winconek.

If you would like a copy of Ashford Voice in large print or audio format please ring 01233 330209 or visit www.ashford.gov.uk

Did you know you can read your borough magazine online? Go to www.ashford.gov.uk/voice to read Ashford Voice via PageSuite.

Disclaimer: no article or photograph may be

reproduced without prior permission of Ashford

Borough Council – requests for permission should

be addressed to Editorial.

www.ashford.gov.uk ASHFORD VOICE SUMMER 2010 3

ASHFORD NEWS

4 & 5

Contents

News in brief All the latest news from around the borough.

ASHFORD INFO

What’s on Things to do and places to go across the borough.

Your council More news, updates and helpful information.

Get in touch Stay connected with Ashford Borough Council and other key services.

Competitions Win the chance to get up close and personal with big cats, soar above

our borough in a glider, or test your 4 x 4 driving skills.

20 & 21

18 & 19

20 & 21

22

23

ASHFORD LIFE

New decade, new Council Leader Ashford Voice meets Cllr Paul Bartlett, the new man at the helm of

Ashford Borough Council.

Your community Explore Egerton, the quintessential English village with an eye on the future.

A day in the life of… Discover how Chris Dixon is working to improve the borough’s arts scene.

Ashford’s summer of sights and sounds When it comes to music, art and culture there’s plenty to enjoy this summer.

The vision for a greener Ashford Read about plans for more fantastic open spaces for our growing town.

10 things to do in Ashford this summer Whether you are looking for the thrilling or just ‘chilling’ this summer,

Ashford has it all.

12 & 13

6 & 7

8 & 9

10 & 11

12 & 13

14 & 15

16 & 17

NEWS

4 ASHFORD VOICE SUMMER 2010 www.ashford.gov.uk

News in brief

More new shops, restaurants, homes,

businesses and even a multi-screen

cinema could be on their way to Ashford

town centre.

Elwick Place, the brownfi eld site

opposite County Square shopping

centre, is set to be transformed, creating

up to 500 jobs.

Stanhope plc has signed a deal with

landowner the South East England

Development Agency with work on the

fi rst phase possibly starting as early

as 2011.

New shops and restaurants on the way

Ashford’s expansion plans receive a

boost as the government announces

plans for a new motorway junction for

the town.

Junction 10A will help open up new

developments planned for the east of

Ashford including Cheeseman’s Green,

Waterbrook and Sevington, enabling

around 5,000 new homes and 3,000

new jobs to be created.

The new junction includes a

roundabout over the M20, link roads

and a new crossing for pedestrians

and cyclists and could be in place as

early as 2014.

For more information visit

www.highways.gov.uk/roads

New M20 junction

Ashford residents have taken the chance to tell Ashford Borough Council how they

should spend their money with close to 1500 people responding to the Have Your Say

survey.

The results are currently being analysed and will help the council decide which services

it will focus on in the future and how they might be delivered.

Look out for news on the survey in the autumn edition of Ashford Voice and on the

council’s website www.ashford.gov.uk/haveyoursay

Jobs boost for young unemployedNine unemployed young people are getting a foot on the employment ladder thanks to

Ashford Borough Council and the government’s Future Jobs Fund.

The council has provided nine, six-month, government funded posts through the

scheme, off ering experience in diff erent areas across the council including housing, ICT,

customer services, planning and building control.

Ashford Borough Council has a new

Leader.

Cllr Paul Bartlett takes over as Cllr Paul

Clokie steps down after leading the

council for the past 11 years.

For full details see pages 6 & 7.

New Council leader

Come and see the big

plans in store for the town

at Ashford International

Hotel on Wednesday 2

June from 10am to 4pm.

World-famous architect Sir Terry Farrell

has been appointed design ambassador

for the town.

Visitors will be able to view Sir Terry’s

vision for making Ashford a town of

design excellence and quality and see

other exciting plans for the town.

E-line buses have been specially

extended for the day between the

station, town centre and Ashford

International Hotel.

To fi nd out more visit

www.ashfordbestplaced.co.uk/

terryfarrell

Come and see future vision

www.ashford.gov.uk

NEWS

ASHFORD VOICE SUMMER 2010 5

The old Ashford library in Church Street has been demolished to make way for the brand

new Ashford Gateway Plus.

The £7.56m Kent County Council, Ashford’s Future and Ashford Borough Council project

will create a stunning new building housing a larger library and a range of public and

voluntary services under one roof.

Services in the new building, due to open in 2011, include a Register Offi ce for civil

wedding ceremonies, housing advice, social services, adult education classes, free

internet and a new café.

For more information on the project visit www.kent.gov.uk

Work starts on Gateway Plus

Revamp beginsResidents will soon be able to walk out of Ashford’s station onto a stunning public square

thanks to £2.5m improvements funded by Ashford’s Future.

Plans include a less congested forecourt, new seating, landscaping and walkways and

better access for cyclists and pedestrians.

Work is due to start on the domestic side of Ashford International Station forecourt in June.

For more information visit www.ashfordbestplaced.co.uk/stationimprovements

Work has started on the fi rst phase of a

£9m project to build 78 much needed

aff ordable homes for local people.

Ashford Borough Council has

appointed Kent based Denne

Construction as the principal

contractor for the fi rst council owned

homes to be built in 30 years.

Ashford is one of only a handful of

councils in the South East to begin

building aff ordable housing thanks to

new rules allowing councils more

fi nancial freedom.

The council successfully bid for £5.1m

from central government towards the

cost of the homes which will be

delivered on small brownfi eld sites

already owned by the council.

Work starts on new council homes

Youngsters have a safe and dynamic place

to play as Hothfi eld’s old recreation

ground gets a complete makeover.

The play area features swings, slides and

climbing equipment with the grounds

landscaped to refl ect the surrounding

natural woodland.

New play area for Hothfi eld

A memorial commemorating Ashford

athlete Julie Rose has been fully restored.

The statue was commissioned in 1997 to

celebrate the stadium’s opening and to

commemorate the 21-year-old killed in a

plane crash while training for the

Olympics in the USA in 1985.

It was badly damaged by vandals in 2007

and had to be removed but has now

been fully restored by the original artist

David Parfi tt with fi nancial support from

Julie Rose memorial restored

Ashford Borough Council, Zurich

Insurance, Ashford Athletic Club and

Kent County Council.

Guests at the unveiling ceremony

included Julie Rose’s family and former

athletics coach.

Cllr Bartlett has lived in Mersham since 1976 and has been a

member of the Council since 1999. He currently represents

Weald East Ward. Before taking on this new role he served for

eight years as Deputy Leader of the Council and was responsible

for fi nancial resources. Paul works in London as a chartered

accountant for a property investment company.

Cllr Bartlett aims to build on the Council’s successes saying,

“The Council will continue to provide value for money, ensure

open access to public services and off er residents quick answers

to their problems.

”We will devote the right resources to ensure we deliver to our

communities the services they want and need.

“I am under no illusion that the times ahead will be challenging.

We anticipate new government policies will aff ect how we deliver

services which is why we are developing a new 5 Year Business

Plan which will reduce costs, establish new priorities and lay out

how the Council will deliver services in the future.

“We have asked what local people say the Council’s priorities

should be and this will help decide what services we will focus on

in the future and how these are delivered.

“Ashford will continue to have one of the lowest Council Tax rates

in the South East but a balance always needs to be struck

between doing what we might want to do to improve the quality

of life for our residents and limiting Council Tax increases to

relieve the fi nancial pressures many local people face.

“The Council will continue to provide leadership in many key

areas. We are uniquely placed to promote the green agenda and

improve social infrastructure. We should ensure we lead on

sustainability issues and do more to promote commercial and

home recycling. We must also continue to develop transport

infrastructure, improve our cultural environment and give the

community a wider leisure off ering.

“We must lead on shaping the future development of urban

Ashford by becoming accountable for what is being built and

saying when we think the development of the town is going

wrong. I intend the Council will continue to stand up for the town

and be a forceful advocate for all of our communities.”

Cllr Bartlett paid tribute to his predecessor Cllr Paul Clokie who

has decided to stand down after 11 years in the top job saying,

”Cllr Clokie provided clear and decisive leadership and rose to

the challenge of delivering the Government’s growth agenda.

I am delighted that he will remain on the Council and his long

experience will be available to the Executive.”

As well as his overall responsibilities as Leader Cllr Bartlett also

has specifi c responsibility for Legal and Democratic Services,

Corporate Policy, Personnel and Development, Local Strategic

Partnerships and Emergency Planning.

Ashford Voice meets Cllr Paul Bartlett, the new man at the helm of Ashford Borough Council.

New decade,new Council Leader

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE

6 ASHFORD VOICE SUMMER 2010

www.ashford.gov.uk

As well as a new Leader the Council has a new look Executive made up of the Leader and seven Executive Members.

It provides leadership at the top level of the Council, driving forward the Council’s priorities, and also provides leadership

within local partnerships.

The Executive Members are known as Portfolio Holders and they are each responsible for specifi c service areas across the council.

Cllr Wood joined the Council in 2003. He has

lived in Aldington for 28 years, is a parish

councillor and champions rural issues.

Cllr Wood is responsible for Resource Management, Financial

Services, Corporate Governance, Shared Service Development

and Asset Management.

Deputy Leader & Resource Management and Control – Cllr Peter Wood WARD: SAXON SHORE

Cllr Bell lives in Biddenden and has represented the area since

1995. He is a parish councillor and has served on the Executive

since it was introduced in 2001.

Cllr Bell is responsible for the Council’s

housing service including housing strategy,

social housing and homelessness and

Customer Services.

Housing & Customer Services – Cllr Neil Bell WARD: BIDDENDEN

Cllr Clarkson moved to Charing 17 years ago after

30 years in the London fi re service and has been a

borough councillor since 2006.

Cllr Clarkson’s responsibilities include waste and recycling,

environmental health, licensing, parking, street scene and

open spaces.

Environmental Services – Cllr Gerry Clarkson WARD: CHARING

Cllr Claughton was fi rst elected to the Council in 1989 serving for

14 years and was Mayor in his fi nal year. He returned to the

Council in 2007.

His responsibilities include communications,

community safety, partnerships and the

voluntary sector.

Community and Communications – Cllr Michael Claughton WARD: BOCKHANGER

Cllr Paul Clokie was elected to Ashford Borough

Council in 1997 becoming Leader two years later,

a post he held for 11 years. He has lived in

Tenterden since 1995.

Cllr Clokie is responsible for strategic planning, economic

development, the Local Development Framework and

Ashford’s Future.

Strategic Planning – Cllr Paul Clokie WARD: TENTERDEN WEST

Cllr Heyes was born, and has lived in, urban Ashford all his life.

He has represented the Godinton Ward for the past seven years

and has always been active in local issues.

His responsibilities include leisure, arts and

sports, leisure trusts and IT.

Cultural Services & IT – Cllr Bernard Heyes WARD: GODINTON

Cllr Honey moved to the borough in 1997 and has

lived in Hastingleigh since 2005. Before being

elected to Ashford Borough Council in 2005 he

was a parish councillor.

Cllr Honey is responsible for development management

(planning), Building Control and Land Charges.

Development Management – Cllr Richard Honey WARD: SAXON SHORE

The Executive meets on the second Thursday of each month

and the Full Council meets once a month. Dates of forthcoming

meetings can be found on page 22 of Ashford Voice.

LIFE


> > >For contact details and further information about the Executive and

other borough councillors go to www.ashford.gov.uk/councillors

Your community: Egerton lifeYour community: Egerton lifeKey facts

Population: 1,102

Business/commerce: Public Houses, vehicle

repair, servicing and petrol fi lling station,

general stores, Post Offi ce, Court Lodge apple

picking station.

Pubs and restaurants: The George Pub.

Community/sports groups: Film society,

decorative and fi ne arts society, cricket club,

football club, Egerton Players amateur dramatic

society, table tennis club, badminton club, short

mat bowls club, Greensands Joggers running

club, laughing club, WI, over 60s club, mother

and toddler group, music society, coffee, Name

That Plant gardening club.

Schools: Egerton Primary School.

Parish Council: Egerton Parish Council meets on

the fi rst Tuesday of each month at 8pm in the

committee room at the village hall.

Parish Clerk: Mrs L Tilden, Potters Forstal Farm,

Chapel Lane, Egerton Forstal, Ashford, Kent,

TN27 9BX. Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 01233 756221.

Councillor’s details:

WEALD NORTH: Cllr. Hugh F Ellison, Littlefi eld,

Pluckley Road, Smarden,

Ashford, Kent, TN27 8NL.

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 01233 770594.

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


www.ashford.gov.uk

W ith understated charm and

magnifi cent views across the

weald Egerton is a perfect example of

a quintessential village.

But there’s nothing sleepy or backward

looking about this vibrant village, a

winner of the Local Community of the

Year Award in 1995, regional award

winner for Village of the Year in 2000 and

runner up in the national award in 2001.

Small, friendly community

“Egerton is a small, friendly place with a

real sense of identity,” explains Sarah

Elworthy, who moved to the village from

London 19 years ago with her husband

Jonathan. “We found Egerton by chance

after getting lost and were overwhelmed

by its tranquillity and have never lost

that feeling.”

Egerton has a strong agricultural tradition

still evident today with 13 farmers

currently living and working in the area

and a popular farmers’ market every

Friday afternoon in the Millennium Hall.

“The farmers’ market attracts a lot of

people from further afi eld and is a great

way to showcase the village”, says John

Fraser, who set up a dairy farm in 1960.

Steeped in history

Egerton has 80 listed buildings including

the local pub, The George Inn, a 14th

century listed building near the centre of

the village.

During World War II, the pub was used

by pilots from nearby Headcorn Airfi eld,

many leaving their signatures on the

fi replace.

Generous

Parish Councillor Alison Richey explains

how Egerton folk are busy and generous

with an excellent fundraising record. The

village is currently in the process of

replacing its sports pavilion thanks in part

to a huge amount of local fundraising.

“Generous contributions from the local

community also helped fund the

Millennium Hall which opened in 1999

and is now home to a long list of clubs

and organisations.”

Innovative

Also based in Millennium Hall is the

innovative Telecottage, the Parish

Council’s computer facility, where

villagers can learn the basics, take a

course, drop in and surf the Internet,

send emails or get IT problems solved.

Clubs

Alison explains, “The list of activities,

groups and clubs is huge including a fi lm

society which boasts well over 100

members who can see the latest movies

on their doorstep. Another club famed for

its fantastic fundraising eff orts is the

Name that Plant gardening club.

“Every year the village has a fantastic

outdoor Christmas fair and every three

years we have a huge village fete which

last year raised over £10,000. This year the

main village event is the famed Cricket

Week running from 4 to 11 June held on

the Recreation Field.”

Next year the prestigious Egerton Music

Festival, another triennial event, returns.

Once again it promises a fantastic mix

including classical, jazz, folk, pop, music

from local children, art exhibitions, barn

dance, hog roast and lots more in

locations across the village.

If there’s a part of the borough you’d

like to see featured in Ashford Voice

please let us know by email:

[email protected].

> > >For more information about Egerton

visit wwww.egerton-kent.co.uk www.egertonpc.kentparishes.gov.uk www.egertonmusicfestival.co.uk

LIFE


Tom Wratten and partner Michelle Wilmshurst outside their new home.

Arts Development Offi cer Chris Dixon

tells us how he is working to

improve the arts off er in our borough.

Tell us about yourself

I have been working at Ashford Borough

Council since 2005, helping to improve

the arts off er for the borough. I work

with local artists, musicians, in fact

anyone connected to the arts, off ering

help, advice and support.

I support festivals and events, help to

integrate artists’ work into Ashford’s

major new developments, and look into

ways of creating new arts venues for

the borough.

I originally trained as an actor at a

London drama school – but what work I

did get, I hope no one will ever see or

remember!

Before coming to Ashford, I learnt the

ropes of arts administration in the Visual

and Media Department at the Arts

Council, and then took on a role for a

national Extended Schools Service, which

was all incredibly inspiring.

Describe a typical day

Thanks to the broad mix of cultural

industries that live and work in the

borough, I am glad to say every day is

remarkably diff erent.

But generally, I catch the 6.45am train

from my home in Eastbourne and get my

usual seat. Then I read lots of reports,

write funding applications and make

‘to do’ lists as I head for Ashford.

A big part of most days is to meet with

key arts groups, individuals and

organisations and look at what they do,

what they aspire to and how the council

can help them. I could be looking for

possible funding sources for groups or

projects, looking at how we can support

a local event, group or individual.

Meet Chris Dixon, Ashford Borough Council’s Arts Development Offi cer

A day in the life of...

Chris Dixon and artist Oliver Winconek at a new installation outside International House.

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


www.ashford.gov.uk

Worst part of your job?

Is hearing people say there’s not a lot

happening in the world of the arts in

Ashford. The truth is Ashford has loads of

valuable artistic activity; the problem is

that a lot is hidden away. Part of my job is

to help change this situation by working

with local people, partners and funders

to bring about positive change for arts

and culture in the borough.

And the best?

The fi rst and the last part of delivering a

project: successfully attracting

sponsorship and external funding to

start planning something amazing, and

then seeing the enjoyment on people’s

faces when a project is completed.

It is also great to receive feedback, such

as “Ashford looks amazing” or “we need

more of this” – especially from our

younger residents.

What is the secret to balancing work

and home life?

I invite my wife along to all the arts and

cultural events that take place in the

borough – this way we gain another loyal

audience member, who spends her

money in Ashford, and stops her from

being the “Ashford arts widow” as she

once named herself!

So what does the future hold for the

arts in Ashford?

There’s lots of valuable creative artistic

activity taking place in Ashford and we

would like to provide a framework for the

arts in Ashford to shine!

Ashford Borough Council is working with

key arts stakeholders, councillors and the

community to develop a new Arts Vision

and plan for Ashford.

The new plan will set the scene for the

future by recognising and building on

the assets and opportunities the

borough already has, and will seek to

increase the cultural off er in our rapidly

growing town.

What the artists say...

If you are a budding artist, or a

local organisation or business

interested in getting involved in

Ashford’s art projects contact

Chris Dixon on 01233 330352 or

email [email protected]

Get involved!

Working through a funding application with local artist Cathy Streeter.

Music fans enjoying Create.

Nimby the elephant – produced by artist Oliver Winconek.

Till the Cows Come Home saw images of cows etched into a wall along Elwick Road in memory of the old cattle market.

> > >Keep a look out for the arts plan consultation on our website and

at many of our summer events. www.ashford.gov.uk/arts

LIFE


It is fantastic that the council has someone like Chris to speak up for the arts in Ashford. He is very brave and bold and we really value the work he does for all arts groups.

Stella Critchley, co-ordinator of the Ashford Youth Theatre.

Emma Dove, curator of The Art Room, Ashford.

The hard work Chris and the council has done to support arts projects is phenomenal.

Oliver Winconek, Local Artist.

Chris bridges the gap between the local arts community and the council, helps raise profi les, enables commissions and so much more.

Every year, Ashford Borough Council join forces with

Ashford’s established artists, musicians and new talent

to put together an exciting mix of fun activities the

whole borough can enjoy over the summer months.

Ashford’s summer of sight and sounds

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


Ashford Jazz Festival1 – 4 July

Presenting a range of

International Jazz

singers and

musicians in Ashford

Town Centre streets,

shopping centres,

pubs and bars. A great four days of

sizzling jazz for those hot summer days

and nights.

Tentertainment2 – 4 July

A unique blend of

great live music, local

food & drink and

family fun on

Tenterden Recreation

Ground.

Ceilidh Barn Dance9 July

The cutting edge world music company

Shiva Nova turn their attention to

traditional folk with a fantastic barn

dance at Norton Knatchball School.

Folk Around the World10 July

A spectacular celebration of folk

music and world culture, as two long

standing festivals come together for

2010. Ashford Town Centre will again

be a spectacle of colour and fun as folk

bands, singer-songwriters and world

cultural performances take centre stage.

Ashford Street Festival11 July

The new look for Ashford carnival

will be focussed in the town

centre, with sensational fl oats

decorated by community

groups and displays by skate

borders, parkour runners and

interactive activities along the

theme of Street Play.

Ashford Festival in the Park17 – 18 July

North Park plays host to a jam packed

weekend of live music and dance

together with a fun fair, food stalls and

bar. This event raises money for local

charities, and is an excellent showcase of

young local talent with everything from

song and dance to circus tricks and

comedy.

Lee Patterson – Elemental FieldStarts 24 July

Presenting extraordinary sound works

that explore various sound forms

gathered from King’s Wood, Challock and

the fl ood plain of South Ashford.

Create Music Festival25 July

One of the South

East’s biggest free

music festivals is back

in Victoria Park for its

15th year,

showcasing local

bands and headline

acts on four

contemporary and

alternative stages.

www.ashford.gov.uk/summersounds

The 2010 Summer Sounds festival promises to be even bigger and better with Create, one of the biggest free

music events in the South East, a new and improved carnival event and a fantastic mix of music, art and family fun

days. From colourful multi-cultural celebrations to blistering sets of jazz, folk and rock, there’s something for

everyone to enjoy. Here’s a taster of what’s on off er.

www.ashford.gov.uk

Other arts events this summer

LIFE


Smallhythe Place – Barn TheatreArabian Nights

Thursday 3 June, 2pm – 3pm

Three tales from

the queen of all

storytellers.

£7.50 – booking

essential on

0844 2491895.

Wellington

Sunday 27 June, 5pm – 6.30pm & 8pm – 9.30pm

Martin Wimbush brings his acclaimed one-man

play to Smallhythe. £12 – booking essential

Smallhythe, Tenderden

www.nationaltrust.org.uk 01580 762334

Theatre Open Studios 2010 4 – 20 June

Local artists throw their doors open to the

public as part of the South East Open Studios

season. You can get up close and personal

with local artists in their studios and talk to them about their work.

www.seos-art.org

Art

Sinden TheatreCranbrook Symphony Orchestra in concert

Sunday 27 June, 7pm

Concert in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief,

Tenterden. Tickets £10. Book on 01580 762837 or

07736 711822.

An evening with

Paul Daniels

Saturday 31 July, 7.30pm

Join Paul for an evening full

of magic, comedy and

entertainment. A great night

out. Tickets £17.50.

Homewood School,

Tenterden

www.sindentheatre.com

01580 763826

Comedy

See pages 18 & 19 for more events this summer.

Mark Watson

Friday 4 June

Brake Hall, Ashford

School

TV regular Mark Watson

kicks off his new tour with a warm up show in

Ashford. Tickets £12.50 available at

www.seetickets.com or 0871 220 0260.

Friday 18 June

7.30 pm Deller Consort

10.00 pm Late Night Extra:

Michala Petri & Lars Hannibal

Saturday 19 June

7.30 pm Florilegium

10.00 pm Late Night Extra:

Gallicantus

Sunday 20 June

3.00 pm Floripari: Studium Musicae

Cracoviense

Friday 25 June

7.30 pm The Gonzaga Band:

A Chamber Vespers

10.00 pm Late Night Extra: Eclipse

Saturday 26 June

7.30 pm The King’s Consort: Genius

of Venice

10.00 pm Late Night Extra: The City

Musick

Sunday 27 June

3.00 pm Brahms Requiem

www.stourmusic.org.uk 056 0343 4123

MusicStour Music Festival 2010 18 – 27 June

Stour Music, the annual festival of early music,

promises an excellent line up this year with all

concerts held in the beautiful All Saints’ church,

Boughton Aluph.

10 – 30 June

Ashford Best Placed Photography

Competition shortlist and winners

exhibition

9 June – 28 July

Life drawing workshops every

Wednesday evening from 6pm-8pm

Saturday 24 July

Hand Made in Kent - one day

exhibition of local handmade gifts

15 – 28 July

Solo exhibition by graphic designer

John Devlin, exploring the nature of

multiples, pop art and ephemera.

5 – 25 August

Final year students at Ashford

College of Art & Design showcase

their work

North Street, Ashford www.theartroomashford.co.uk 01233 665845

Exhibitions at The Art Room

Vision for a greener Ashford

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


Ashford is a town on the move, with faster train links, better

shopping and more visitors than before, but one of the very

best things about living in the borough is the countryside.

While we may be surrounded by hundreds of acres of stunning

hills, woodland and areas of outstanding natural beauty, urban

folk could be forgiven for wondering - with all the house building

and commercial

developments going on in

the town centre – what

open spaces will be left

closer to home for them

to enjoy?

But they needn’t worry –

there are some big, green

plans on the horizon.

Ashford’s growth plans

include a substantial amount of work to enhance and expand the

green spaces in the town centre, to create a more pleasant place

to live and visit, and to make it easier to get around the town

without ever having to get on a road.

Over the next 20 years, three new parks will be developed

in Ashford to complement the town’s existing parks and

open spaces.

Comparable in size to London’s royal parks, they will off er a wide

range of free leisure opportunities, from exciting family and

sporting activities to more natural, rural-themed attractions that

will appeal to both local residents and visitors.

www.ashford.gov.uk

The Parks

LIFE


> > >To have your say on what the parks should offer visit www.ashfordbestplaced.co.uk/greenvision

A major water park

around Conningbrook

lake that will off er a host

of family and sporting

activities to

complement the

neighbouring Julie Rose

Stadium.

A development policy is

currently being drafted

and a public consultation on the park’s features is due to take

place later this year.

Potential facilities and activities include:

• Boats for hire • Zip wire

• Angling • Cross-country running

• Canoeing • Nature trails

• Kayaking • Indoor sports hall

• Wind surfi ng • Camping

• Sub-aqua training • Restaurant

• Man-made beach • Lakeside piazza

• BMX track

Development of the site will include some house building to help

fund some of the activities and site uses. A master plan will be

drawn up to ensure any house building is sustainable and

complements the surrounding area.

A nature park encompassing the Willesborough Dykes area

(a Site of Nature Conservation Interest) and following the

Stour River up to the Ashford Designer Outlet.

The park will focus on biodiversity and conservation of the area’s

rare plants and wildlife habitats, including rare bats, various

invertebrates and overwintering birds.

Suggested activities and facilities include:

• Nature walks

• Biodiversity and conservation education

• Formal play and picnic area near Asda

• Cycle and footpaths

The three parks will be connected by a ‘green necklace’ of smaller

open spaces, including cycle paths, bridle ways and public rights

of way.

Sometimes crisp and urban, sometimes soft and green, the

necklace will make it easier and more enjoyable for people to

get around town without the use of a car, whether on their way

to work, walking to school or on a day out.

The Green Necklace

A family-orientated park

incorporating the

Singleton Environment

Centre set to

complement the

proposed new

Chilmington Green

community.

This will be the largest of

the new formal parks

with a combination of

family activities, open

spaces for sports and events, formal gardens and footpaths large

enough for 40 minute jog or an hour-long walk.

Suggested features:

• Concert space • Formal gardens

• Organic farm and shop • Tree nursery

• Education centre • Allotments

• Arts centre • Café

• Sports fi eld

Conningbrook Park

Discovery Park

Stour Riverside Park

Ashford’s Green Corridor

You can currently enjoy a breath of fresh air thanks to the network of parks and walks that make up this valuable urban green space. It links Watercress Field, Victoria Park, Bowens Field, North and South parks and Queen Mother’s Park and other green spaces along the rivers that fl ow through Ashford with areas designed as local nature reserves.

For more information visitwww.ashford.gov.uk/parksandopenspaceswww.ashfordgreencorridor.org.uk > > >

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


Ashford Voice has checked out some of the fun stuff you and your family can enjoy

right here on the doorstep, so begin planning your summer fun right now.

things to do in Ashford this summer10

Ashford Heritage Trail

Walk it

Take time to discover Ashford’s rich history

with this gentle walking tour of the

town. The trail takes in key landmarks

such at St Mary’s Church and leads

you through the town centre past

homes and buildings that go back

as far as 13th century.

01233 629165

www.ashford.gov.uk

ASHFORDThe Land Rover Experience

Drive it

Try a thrilling day out at the South East’s

offi cial Land Rover off -road facility. If

you have never handled a 4 x 4

before, you’ll fi nd off -road driving

pushes you to new heights under

the watchful eye of qualifi ed

instructors. 01233 668222

www.lrexperience.co.uk

EASTWELL PARK

Kent Gliding Club

Fly it

Take to the skies this summer and enjoy

the fascination of silent fl ight with a

trial session. If you are 14 or older

you can enjoy magnifi cent views

as you soar above our borough,

safe in the hands of qualifi ed

trainers. 01233 740274

www.kent-gliding-club.co.uk

CHALLOCKGodinton House

Visit it

Visit this superb Jacobean historic house

and garden with medieval hall,

beautifully furnished rooms and 500

years of fascinating history set in

12 acres of beautiful formal and

wild gardens. 01233 620773

www.godinton-house-gardens.co.uk

GODINTON PARK

Mid Kent Fisheries

Fish it

Fancy a day out fi shing? You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy a great day out in stunning surroundings at

Chilham Mill Lake. Go on your own, with friends or the whole family as their match and pleasure lake is great

for beginners and children. Take a picnic, enjoy the amazing birdlife or simply lie back and wait for the fi shes

to bite. 01227 730668 www.midkentfi sheries.co.uk

CHILHAM

www.ashford.gov.uk

LIFE


And there’s more...

> > >

Big Cat Sanctuary

Meet it

You can enjoy the experience of a lifetime

by booking a ‘meet a big cat’ or

‘ranger day’ activity and get up

close and personal with some of

the most powerful animals on

the planet. See tigers, lions,

cheetahs, leopards and smaller

cats too. 01233 771915

www.whf.org.uk

SMARDENRare Breeds Centre

Enjoy it

Family fun whatever the weather with a

unique mix of fun, excitement and

countryside adventure, set in 120

acres of unspoilt countryside.

Meet friendly farm animals and

birds of prey, walk through the

butterfl y tunnel, or check out

the mysterious marsh venture trail.

01233 861493

www.rarebreeds.org.uk

WOODCHURCH

Kent & East Sussex Railways

Ride it

Relax and enjoy the ride on this vintage

steam railway as it makes its way

through our countryside. Enjoy

cream teas on board, visit the

museum and look out for

special events throughout the

summer. 01580 765155

www.kesr.org.uk

TENTERDENNational Cycle Route 18

Bike it

There is no better way to explore the

delights of our borough than on two

wheels. This cycle route runs from

east to west on small country

lanes from Canterbury to

Tunbridge Wells taking in

Ashford’s charming countryside,

complete with apple orchards, oast

houses and picture postcard villages.

0117 926 8893 www.sustrans.org.uk

Singleton Environment Centre

Discover it

Visit this award winning and unique, sustainable venue to learn about the environment, green spaces in

the borough, environmental projects, conservation and educational programmes and fun summer

activities for children. 01233 666519 www2.btcv.org.uk

SINGLETON

Our borough is home to dozens more places to go and things to do including museums, houses and gardens, windmills, walks, cycle routes and much more. Contact Tourist Information for more information.

Ashford Tourist Information Centre, Churchyard, Ashford. Tel 01233 629165, Tenterden Gateway, Manor Row, Tenterden. Tel 0845 8 247 202, www.ashford.gov.uk or www.visitheartofkent.com

INFO


Holding an event you want Ashford Voice to feature?

What’s on

West End House GallerySmarden

23 May – 25 July

An exhibition of bird paintings.

01233 770261

www.west-end-house-gallery.co.uk

.

Stour Centre

Swim all summer for only

£25

For anyone 16 and under at

public sessions during the

summer holidays. (Under 8s

must be accompanied by

an adult.)

Basketball training camps

2 & 3 August,

23 & 24 August

A two day course covering all aspects of

basketball skills for players aged between 7–14

years. Ends with a tournament. £25

Crash Course swimming lessons

An intensive course designed as an introduction

to swimming or build on current skills.

Half Term 4 June

£18.60 members,

£21.60 non members

Summer courses

26 – 30 July, 9 –13

August

£23.25 Members,

£26.25 non members

Dance Courses

9 –11 August

The Stour centre has joined up with the Manic

Dance Company to off er children a fun and

entertaining dancing experience. Over three

days your child will get to try street, disco, jazz,

ballet, ballroom, Latin and contemporary dance

styles. £35

Ashford Leisure TrustKingsnorth Recreation Centre

Fun Camps

1– 4 June

Each camp session includes a sport based

activity and creative, fun arts and crafts session

all designed with a weekly theme to suit all ages

and abilities. Swimming available for over 8s at

the Stour Centre. Full day from 8.15am – 5pm.

Half days sessions 8.15am – 12.30pm or

1pm – 5pm.

Julie Rose Stadium

The Aviva Star track course provides a fantastic

chance for children aged 7 -14 years to take part

in athletics, learn the fundamentals, develop

and hone skills through various games and

events.

2 – 5 August 9am – 1pm

23 – 6 August 9am – 1pm

Cost: £44.00.

Stour Centre: 01233 663503

Julie Rose Stadium: 01233 613131

Kingsnorth Recreation Centre: 01233 503846

www.ashfordleisuretrust.co.uk

Poulton Wood open day 5 June

A wonderful day out in the country.

16th Classic car rally 13 June150 classic cars plus all the fun of the farm

Great Kent Bike Ride 13 JuneNorth Park, Tannery Lane

Explore our countryside and raise vital funds for Canterbury Oast Trust at the same time. Choose from two circular routes of 35 or 60 miles taking in the Romney Marsh, St Mary’s Bay, Rye, the Isle of Oxney and Tenterden. Starts between 8am and 9.30am.

Giant craft and gift fair 26 - 27 JuneKent’s biggest craft fair and fun weekend.

Baa Baa charity walk 11 JulySupport Canterbury Oast House charity while having a fun family day out.

Family Fun Day & Show 4 AugustLoads of fun for the family plus our mini livestock show.

Barn Dance 14 AugustLive country band, BBQ, bar and dancing as part of Canterbury Oast Trust’s 25th anniversary celebration.

01233 861493 www.rarebreeds.org.uk

Rare Breeds Centre

Ashford Borough Museum

Opening times

April to late October Monday to Saturday

10am - 1pm

Housed in a 17th century Grade II listed building,

the museum features exhibits associated with

Ashford’s history including…

• The history of Ashford Fire Brigade

• 100 year celebration of the Girl Guides

• Fascinating fi nds – A collection of artefacts

unearthed by an Ashford metal detectorist.

• Photographs of Ashford 1940s-1980s

01233 631511 www.ashfordmuseum.co.uk

Open Farm SundayJune 13

Care about your food with the same passion as the farmers that produce it?

Anyone interested in food, farming or the countryside is invited to meet local farmers and learn how they produce their crops, meat and diary products.

Bank Farm, Aldington, Biddenden Vineyards, Godinton House Estate, and Silcocks Farm, Tenterden, have all signed up.

www.farmsunday.org

Singleton Environment CentreWesley School Road, Singleton

Singleton Environment Centre provides activities

including fi tness classes, arts and entertainment,

environmental conservation and community

events.

BTCV Workshops

Ashford Green Gym (Every Monday morning)

Variety of conservation tasks in and around

Ashford.

Ashford Community Woodland

(First Saturday of every month)

Tasks can involve tree planting, path clearing,

installing seat sand footpaths litter picking,

maintaining hibernacula and pruning.

01233 666519 www2.btcv.org.uk

Find out about local life at the Tenterden Museum

with the nostalgic Victorian Room, Tapestry Room,

hop press and much more.

Opening times

Open Tuesday to Sunday June 1.30pm – 4.30pm

July & August 11am – 4.30pm

01580 764310 www.tenterdenmuseum.co.uk

Tenterden & District Museum Station Road, Tenterden

Find out more about other local events on www.ashford.gov.uk/events

Call: 01233 330209 Email: [email protected] To make it into our autumn edition information must reach us by 1 August 2010.

INFO


Godinton House and GardensGodinton Lane, Hothfi eld

Open Farm

Sunday 13 June

Enjoy all that’s

best about

farming. Selection

of food stalls,

plant sales,

educational

activities,

follow the farm trail around the parkland,

farm animals and vintage tractors.

Delphinium Festival 20 – 27 June

Delphinium Society Day 25 June

11am – 5.30pm

Meet the Delphinium Society for expert advice.

Special Late Night Openings

Monday to Friday to 8pm

Bring a picnic & view the spectacular delphiniums

after hours.

Painting Day with Kaidy Lewis 21 June

Enjoy painting in the gardens with helpful tips

from a local artist.

Jazz Evening with “The Colrose Five”

23 June 7pm

In aid of St. John’s Ambulance - picnics from 6pm.

Expert Garden Advice 24 June

With Head Gardener Vivien Hunt and Fiona

Abrahams from Hadlow College.

National Garden Scheme Day

25 June 11am – 8pm

Ticket proceeds to NGS charities. House & Tea Room

open 2pm.

Faversham Mission Brass Band 21 June

2pm – 4pm

Bring a rug or deck chair and listen to the band in

the fragrant walled garden.

Open Air Theatre -

‘Merry Wives of Windsor’ 3 July

Open Air Theatre -

‘Much Ado about Nothing’ 17 July

Sculpture Exhibition 23 July – 15 August

Local artists display their sculpture in the beautiful

gardens at Godinton.

Red Cross Open Day 1 August 2pm – 5.30pm

Tearoom open serving delicious homemade cakes

and plants for sale. Garden ticket proceeds to the

Red Cross.

01233 620773

www.godinton-house-gardens.co.uk

Podplus 3 Lakes 5k Charity RunJulie Rose Stadium 4 July, 11am

A unique opportunity to run, jog or walk around the

three Conningbrook lakes in Ashford. The course is all

off -road, starting and fi nishing on the stadium running

track. Open to all standards of runner, jogger or walker.

There will also be a children’s fun run which will be held

on the running track. Entry fee on the day £10.

01233 660851 www.podplus.co.uk/3lakes5k

Kennington Summer FayreRecreation fi eld off Ulley Road

20 June, 12 – 4pm

Local charities have once again come together for

the Kennington summer fayre - an afternoon of

fun and games will be complemented by a wide

variety of stalls. 01233 627603

St. Rumwold Raft Race20 June, 12pm

The Great St. Rumwold raft race will be held again

this year on the Royal Military canal below St.

Rumwold’s church, Bonnington. Fantastic fun for all

the family. Open at 12pm. First race at 1pm.

01233 720071

Willesborough WindmillThe 2010 summer season runs until

the end of September, open every

Saturday and Sunday afternoon and

Bank Holiday Mondays 2pm – 5pm.

During July and August they are also

open on Wednesday afternoons.

Teddy Bears picnic 13 June, 11am – 4pm

Musical evening 19 June, 7pm

Garden party 25 July, 2pm – 5pm

Guide Dogs dog show 30 August, 10.30am – 4pm

01233 661866

www.willesboroughwindmill.co.uk

Tenterden Leisure Centre TrustSchool Holiday Activity CampsMondays, Wednesdays &

Fridays 8.45am – 3.45pm

8 – 12 yrs £15.00

Basketball, netball, football, team games,

swimming, arts & crafts, Wii sessions and lots

more.

Crash course swimming lessons27 – 31 June, 3 – 28 August

Children’s holiday activities21 – 24 June, 27 – 31 June, 3 – 7 August,

10 – 14 August, 17 – 21 August, 24 – 28 August

Arts & CraftsMondays, Wednesdays & Fridays

9.30am – 11.30am

5 – 7 yrs, £5.50 per session

01580 765987 www.tenterdenleisure.com25 June, 23 July, 20 August, 7.20pm – 9.30pm If you enjoy classical music why not join the Ashford Recreational Music Society where members can listen to their favourite music.

Cost £2. 01233 632620.

Ashford Recreational Music Society

Farmers’ MarketsWye, The Green5, 19 June, 3, 17 July, 7, 21 August

9am - noon

07804652156

www.wyefarmersmarket.co.uk

Rolvenden, New Village Hall

10am -12pm

01424 855636

www.kentfarmersmarkets.org.uk

Challock, Challock Memorial Hall

1st and 3rd Fridays of each month 1pm to 4pm

01233 740979


Egerton, Millennium Hall

Every Friday 2pm to 4.30pm

01233 756533


Hamstreet, Victory Hall

Second Sunday of every month, 9am – 2pm

01233 732965

Warehorne, Village Hall

Fourth Sunday of the month, 10am – 12.30pm

01233 733718


Kent and East SussexRailwayHalf-term fun week 1– 4 June

Real Ale and Cider festival

11 June, 6pm – 10. 30pm

12 June, 11am – 10.30pm

Bus rally 27 June

An impressive array of classic vehicles at

Tenterden town station

70s Weekend 11–12 July

For those that remember the music

and fashion.

Thomas and friends 65th anniversary,

24 July

Come and see Thomas and his friends at the

Kent and East Sussex Railway.

Kids Go Free 26 July – 22 August

01580 765155 www.kesr.org.uk

Tenterden town station

INFO


Your council

> > >

> > >

Forward Plan

Make your garden an award

winning haven for wildlifeKent Wildlife Trust, in partnership with Ashford Borough Council,

nine other local councils and the Royal Horticultural Society,

has announced its Kent Wildlife Gardening Awards scheme

for 2010.

Entry is free and open to anyone who gardens in Kent, however

large or small their plot, including businesses, community

groups, schools, allotments, private gardens or even collections

of adjoining gardens.

Closing date for entries is 30 June and by late summer Kent

Wildlife Trust will have assessed all the gardens entered and

each will receive an award of bronze, silver or gold. Gold winners

will also get a commemorative plaque to display.

An entry form and full details of the scheme can be found at

www.kentwildlifetrust.org.uk

Period of Plan Date Available for Inspection

June to September 2010 14 May 2010

July to October 2010 16 June 2010

August to November 2010 16 July 2010

September to December 2010 16 August 2010

October 2010 to January 2011 16 September 2010

November 2010 to February 2011 15 October 2010

December 2010 to March 2011 16 November 2010

January to April 2011 15 December 2010

February to May 2011 17 January 2011

March to June 2011 14 February 2011

April to July 2011 17 March 2011> > >

Keep up to date with key council decisions by

checking out the council’s Forward Plan. This

quarterly document contains information on

what the decisions due to be taken each month

and associated documents.

You can view the Plan from June 2010 to

August 2011 at the Civic Centre, Tenterden

Gateway and at www.ashford.gov.uk

It’s good to talk

> > >

Ashford Borough

Council has

introduced a quick

and easy way to

report a missed

domestic waste or

blue box collection.

When you call the

council, a ‘virtual’

customer services

agent, can take the

details and tell you

when your missed collection will be picked up.

Other ways to cut the time you spend on the phone to us

include…

Go Interactive – If you know the department or name of the

offi cer you want to talk to our voice recognition system can put

you straight through. Simply call the normal council number and

follow the instructions or call 01233 330838 direct.

Try Call Back – You can request a call back to save you

waiting on the line. If you’re kept waiting more than four minutes

you will be asked if you want to leave your number and we’ll

ring you.

For more information visit

www.ashford.gov.uk/customerservice or call 01233 331111.

INFO


> > >

Review of Executive Arrangements Councils across the UK are reviewing their decision-making

arrangements with the option of choosing from two styles

of leadership: Leader and Cabinet or directly elected Mayor

and Cabinet.

Ashford Borough Council currently has a Leader and Cabinet

which remains the Council’s preferred option.

A directly elected Mayor would be chosen in a separate election

and would not be a Councillor or represent an individual Ward.

The elected Mayor would have Executive decision-making

responsibilities so some decisions currently taken collectively by

the Executive could be taken by a single person. The Council

would not able to remove the Mayor.

The Leader would be a Councillor, elected in the normal local

elections and appointed as Leader by the Council. The Council

would retain powers to remove the Leader from offi ce in certain

circumstances.

Under both systems the Leader or Mayor would hold

responsibility for all Executive functions and would be elected or

appointed for a four year term. They would appoint Councillors

to the Cabinet and appoint a Deputy Leader.

The Council would continue to approve the budget, Council

policy and to set Council Tax.

The Council will make the fi nal decision by December 2010 and

introduce any changes following the elections in May 2011.

You can let the council know which option you would prefer by

emailing [email protected] or by post to

Member Services and Scrutiny Manager, Civic Centre,

Tannery Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23 1PL by 31 August 2010.

For more information visit www.ashford.gov.uk

or call 01233 330564

> > >

Members AllowancesAshford Borough Councillors have agreed recommendations

from the Members’ Allowances Independent Remuneration

Panel to amend the allowances they can claim.

These now include attendance at offi cial Parish/Town Council or

Community Forum meetings within the Member’s Ward or

meetings of the Planning (Sub) Committee only, but only if the

Member has a round trip of ten miles of more.

The changes came into force on 1 April 2010.

Copies of the scheme and records of the allowances are

available at the Civic Centre, Tenterden Gateway and on the

council’s website, www.ashford.gov.uk

> > >

Play areas getting a big thumbs up

Over the next few weeks OK to Play signs

will be appearing in play areas across the

borough to show people their local play

space is a safe place to enjoy.

The signs, designed by local parents and

children, are part of the council’s quality assurance scheme.

Parish councils and other organisations responsible for play

areas can carry out an assessment and gain accreditation.

Visit www.ashford.gov.uk for more details. > > >

Council’s tourism team scoops awardAshford’s Tourist Information Centre (TIC) staff have been named

the borough’s best team at this year’s Pride in Ashford and

Tenterden tourism awards.

The annual awards honour people who help make Ashford and

Tenterden a great place to visit with everyone in the running

nominated by the public.

Tourism Operations Offi cer Tracey McKeen manages the

four-strong team who staff the TIC six days a week throughout

the year. She praised their hard work saying, “I am very proud

of the team. They’re truly dedicated and work hard to make

sure visitors and local people wanting to know more about

their borough have a good experience.”

The Ashford TIC is located in The Churchyard, Ashford.

www.ashford.gov.uk 01233 629165

www.visitheartofkent.com

INFO


Get in touchHow to contact Ashford Borough Council

Telephone 01233 331111

8.30am – 5.30pm Monday to Thursday

8.30am – 5.00pm Friday

Typetalk 01233 330744

Out of Hours/Emergency 01233 629911

24 hour Payment Line 01233 330625

Fax 01233 645654

Email [email protected]

Online www.ashford.gov.uk

Post Ashford Borough Council

Civic Centre, Tannery Lane

Ashford, Kent TN23 1PL

Visit Customer Contact Centre,

Civic Centre

9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Thursday

9.00am – 4.30pm Friday

Out and about Ashford Gateway, 14 Park Mall,

Ashford, Kent TN24 8RY

Tel: 0845 8 247 202

9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday

9.00am – 4.00pm Saturday

Tenterden Gateway, 2 Manor Row,

Tenterden, Kent TN30 6HP

Tel: 0845 8 247 202

9.00am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday

9.00am – 4.00pm Saturday

Gateway online

Email: [email protected]

Online: www.ashfordgateway.co.uk

Council services and useful information

Kent County Council

Website www.kent.gov.uk

24 Hour Helpline 0845 8 247 247

Environment & Waste 0845 8 247 600

Highways and Transport 0845 8 247 800(including roadworks, pot holes and street lighting)

Kent Libraries 01622 671411

Social Care & Health 0845 8 247 100

Trading Standards 01622 221012

Emergency ServicesIf it’s an emergency dial 999, otherwise, use the numbers below:

Kent Police (Ashford & Tenterden) 01303 850055

Community Safety Unit 01233 330891

William Harvey Hospital 01233 633331

Leisure & Tourism

Stour Centre 01233 663503

Julie Rose Stadium 01233 613131

Kingsnorth Recreation Centre 01233 503846

Ashford Tourist Information Centre 01233 629165

Pitchside & Courtside 01233 896511(formerly Ashford Mini Soccer Centre)

Other useful phone numbers

Ashford’s Future 01233 330812

Citizens Advice Bureau 01233 626185

Environment Agency 0870 8 506506(polluted ditches and watercourses)

Fraudline (benefi t fraud) 0800 026 2456

Floodline 0845 988 1188

June

Tuesday 1 – Audit Committee

Thursday – Nature Conservation Forum

Monday 7 – Community Grants Panel

Wednesday 9 – Community Partnership Group

Thursday 10 – Executive

Tuesday 15 – Local Development

Framework Task Group

Tuesday 22 – Overview & Scrutiny

Wednesday 23 – Planning Committee

Tuesday 29 – Audit Committee

Wednesday 30 – Standards Committee

July


Thursday 15 – Council


Tuesday 13 – Policy Advisory Group


Wednesday 28 – Local Development


August




Wednesday 25 – Local Development


Ashford Borough Council Committee Meeting Dates

Summer Bank Holiday Opening Hours

The Civic Centre, Ashford Gateway and Tenterden Gateway will be closed on 30 August.

Competitions

INFO


The sky’s the limit this summerYou could be soaring above our glorious countryside this

summer thanks to Kent Gliding Club with a free trial lesson

for one lucky reader aged 14 and over up for grabs.

After being towed up to 2,000 feet your two-seat glider will

gently fl oat high above their Challock airfi eld. During the fl ight

you’ll learn how the controls work and even have the opportunity to fl y the glider

with help from your British Glider Association qualifi ed instructor.

As well as a wide range of gliding activities the club off ers fl ying opportunities for

disadvantaged youngsters and adults across the county and won an Eco-tourism

award in 2008.

Discover more at www.kent-gliding-club.co.uk

Simply answer the question and return the entry form to: Glider Competition,

Ashford Voice, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL.

Closing Date: 30 June 2010.

Name: ...................................................................................................

Address: ...............................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

Postcode: .............................. Tel No: ...............................................

Email: ....................................................................................................

Q How many feet will your glider be towed to?

A ...........................................................................................................

Tick if you wish to receive further information from Ashford Borough Council

and partners involved in the plans for Ashford’s future. For a full list of our Terms

and Conditions, please refer to our website, www.ashford.gov.uk/competitions

or write to us at the address on Page 2.

Name: ...................................................................................................

Address: ...............................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

Postcode: .............................. Tel No: ...............................................

Email: ....................................................................................................

Q Where is Land Rover’s South East Experience based?

A ...........................................................................................................





Fancy going off road?Discover what it feels like to drive a state-of-the-art

4 x 4 over testing terrain courtesy of Land Rover’s

South East Experience.

You can win a half day off -road experience at their

specialist off -road training facility on the Eastwell Park Estate.

Don’t worry if you’ve never handled a 4 x 4 before as you’re safe in the hands

of their expert instructors. You will need to have held a full driving licence for

12 months.

Whether it’s 4 x 4 familiarisation, corporate events, professional training or a

recreational experience the centre does it all.

To fi nd out more visit www.lrexperience.co.uk

Simply answer the question and return the entry form to: Land Rover Competition,

Ashford Voice, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL.


Ashford International Hotel Refl ections winner: Mrs Bernice Chittenden, Tenterden. Rare Breeds Centre winner: Kelly Austin, Singleton. Eurostar winner: James Stile, Park Farm.

Get up close and personal with some of the world’s most

endangered animals at the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden.

Win your family a guided tour, meet all the cats, including

lions, tigers, cheetahs and leopards, help clean and feed

them and enjoy lunch in the fantastic visitor centre.

The Wildlife Heritage Foundation charity runs the

sanctuary with the view to breeding and, where possible,

re-introducing animals to their native habitat. They off er

education programmes, volunteering opportunities and

the chance to adopt an animal.

Find out more at www.whf.org.uk

Simply answer the question and return the entry form to: Big Cat Sanctuary

Competition, Ashford Voice, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL.


Take a walk on the wild side

Name: ...................................................................................................

Address: ...............................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................

Postcode: .............................. Tel No: ...............................................

Email: ....................................................................................................

Q Who runs the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden?

A ...........................................................................................................





Summer Sounds ASHFORD 2010

Ashford Jazz Festival 01 – 04 July

Tentertainment02 – 04 July

Celidh Barn Dance 09 July

Folk Around the World10 July

Ashford Street Festival11 July

Ashford Festival in the Park17 – 18 July

Lee Patterson – Elemental Field

Starts 24 July

Create Music Festival25 July

www.ashford.gov.uk

Documents

Ashford Voice Summer 2010