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PARISH NEWS
SUTTON VALENCE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
KCC have promised to install the Pelican crossing and the footpath to Haven Farm during the Summer Holidays. This
will make an enormous difference to residents using the doctor’s surgery and the bus stop. It will also make life easier
and safer for customers wishing to use the Post Office and the Farm Shop. Our thanks to the Independent School and
our KCC Councillor, Eric Hotson, without their support the project would not have gone ahead.
The Parish Council have dealt with over 40 planning applications during the year. Because we are now a “Larger Vil-
lage”, developers are putting in speculative applications, particularly at Warmlake crossroads, an accident black spot.
We have objected to all applications on “green field” sites; it is imperative to keep the “green lungs” around our Villag-
es.
There is a report elsewhere on the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.
We responded to MBC’s local plan; objecting to our designation as a “Larger Village”; the 18,600 new houses with-
out suitable infrastructure; concerns about schools places; medical care; severe traffic congestion and lack of consulta-
tion with the Rural Parishes.
We have received £4,380 from the Borough, not enough to maintain essential services and have increased the precept
by 2.2%. On Band D Council tax, £67.87 p.a. The Parish has 650 houses and 1400 residents and stretches almost to the
Weald Golf Club, to Hawkenbury and to the Plough Crossroads.
Three football teams and two lacrosse teams use the Memorial Field, the lacrosse players have been giving free coach-
ing to local children. The Parish Council will refurbish the Pavilion and are applying for grants to supplement Parish
funds.
We have applied for a Parking Order, this will enable us to offer secure parking in the old play area to local residents
for an annual rent. To remain viable, the Village Hall desperately needs extra spaces.
Residents may use the Tennis Courts for a small fee, the key is held by the Post Office. Our two allotmentsgardens, the Harbour and Bowhalls are well supported.
Picture
painted by
Cyril Bow-
ler and
kindly giv-
en to the
Parish
Council by
Mr Simon
Collier of
Derbyshire
Edited, published and distributed by Sutton Valence Parish Council Spring / Summer 2016
2
Chairmans report continued:
The Parish Council will use the section 106 money from the Brandy’s Bay development to improve the Harbour play
area and field; a questionnaire will be sent to residents asking for their views and involvement.
We have a Youth Club; 15 to 20 boys and girls meet in the Village Hall, they are led by a professional youth worker
and Dawn Riach-Brown. The Youth Club was instigated by Peter Coleman who saw the need and found the funding.
Martin Stokes has retired as Chair of the Village Hall Committee. During his 6 years he and his wife Sue organised
very popular quiz nights which funded the vast improvements to the hall, thank you both. Peter Newman now Chairs
the Committee.
Unlike many Parishes, Sutton Valence has a large number of successful Associations and Societies run by dedicated,
hard working committees.
Our thanks to Lesley Flint, the Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator, Dawn Riach-Brown, the Community Warden, Mi-
chael Beaman who organises the wonderful archive exhibitions at St. Mary’s, Christine Parkes who is involved in so
many organisations and Gover James who opens and closes our Church every day.
There have been some changes on the Parish Council, John Davis has retired, his knowledge and interest in the envi-
ronment is solely missed; fortunately, John is still involved with the Neighbourhood Plan. Chris Smith and Ed Robinson
left because of work commitments. Derek Eagle who runs the Haven Post Office and Farm shop has joined the Council
and we welcome back Eve Poulter. Maurice Stancombe, Loraine Cook, Sharon Judge and Chris Poole continue as
Councillors. We are fortunate to have Mrs. Janet Burnett as our Clerk.
The Parish Councillors will continue to work with others to protect our beautiful Conservation area and the rural Parish
from inappropriate development.
Eileen Riden Chair, Sutton Valence Parish Council.
NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN GROUP
Where are we now?
The steering group formed four major lines of enquiry based on the returns of the ‘Big Question’ survey - housing and planning, infrastructure, business and commerce and roads and transport. Each group had to consider just what and what did not belong on a NP. They also had to decide the areas of enquiry that were required to make sure that our NP was firmly based on evidence (rather than opinion or comment)
The Steering group had to decide where there were gaps in our Big Question Survey and what further surveys needed to be carried out. This resulted in a Youth Survey, Housing Needs Survey and a Business survey.
A Communications strategy was decided on and a new website is in process of being set up. This will be interactive to deal with further detailed information gathering and data sharing.
The next few months.
Process the Housing Needs Survey
Learn how to write acceptable policies
Assemble list of draft policies that we wish to include
Analyse the final approved Maidstone Local Plan and to ensure that our policies are ‘in broad alignment with the strategic aims’.
Take note of national advice on Neighbourhood Planning which is continuing to change and leading to plans being rejected by inspectors
Produce a draft NP by the end of the year for consultation
Barry Armstrong / Peter Coleman
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Annual Parish Meeting PEG report (Parish Environment Group) 2015/2016
PEG is becoming a group of Old Crocks with us down to 2½ people as a result of back problems, and we
are just about to lose Glen who has been a stalwart of the group. With such low numbers of volunteers we
will find it hard to do much so please contact me if you can give us a hand. It only needs a couple
of hours every few months and no technical skill is required, just some physical effort.
Our main task of last year for Peter, Glen, Andrew and me was to paint the railings and posts white in both
High Street and Lower Road. Money for materials was generously provided by QHOF. Unfortunately
since then someone has reversed into the end of these railings smashing them – will we get the damage
replaced? Peter also cleared a load of bottles, cans, glasses and general litter from the bank opposite the
Cloth Workers pub.
Jan and Peter have been tending the little garden outside the White House and hope to plant a few more roses there at some time.
A day was also spent at Bowhall clearing the path from the top of the allotments through to the School rubbish tip which was blocked
by a fallen tree and brambles and nettles and then paths were cleared through Mrs. Argles Wood. We are still on the lookout for a
spare petrol brush cutter - if you have one to donate let me know.
Swan Steps were cleared and we will try to clear them again soon.
We also recut the turf around the Analemmatic Sundial so everyone can use this human sundial as a bit of fun to tell the time and
show the kids this kind gift from the Mulheirns and parishioners.
Last autumn at Bowhall we did some work clearing brambles, ashlings and cherry suckers with our parish brushcutter and one that
was kindly loaned to us. There is always more brush cutting to be done so at some point we will get round to it when we have volun
teers. And we will have to coppice some of the hazel.
The daffodils in the wood planted many years ago before PEG have been beautiful and at last the native bluebells we planted sever
al years ago are flowering with the Red Campion just about to flower. In the past someone planted Spanish bluebells up there which
we did try to dig out, but they came back – we have to accept that they will hybridise with the native ones and just accept their
beautiful colour in the same way we accept that the daffodils are not native woodland ones.
This year we had to urgently place wire guards around the 15 apple trees in the Community Orchard as the rabbits had been having
a late feast by pushing the plastic tree guards to one side – only the 15 apple trees seem to have been their delicacy! The apple
trees were also given their winter prune.
The new hedge between the 2 fields at Bowhall is now starting to fill out and in the autumn we will be planting further bushes at the
north end where they have died. Some long sticks have been placed along the hedge to discourage anyone forcing a path through it
and to try to stop damage to the bushes – please discourage people and dogs from removing these and breaking through the new
hedge line, thanks. Elsewhere at Bowhall the slips we planted to extend the woodland and hedge with bushes are similarly starting
to fill out and provide better areas for wildlife and plants.
We are still awaiting the Parish Council to weed kill the base of all the fruit trees in the Community Orchard which must be done an
nually so the trees are not competing with the grass and weeds for moisture and sustenance. We also need the Parish Council to
cut and remove the rough grass at both Bowhall and the harbour in the autumn – if left until Spring as has happened this year, we
lose all our spring wild flowers.
Phil Taylor 01622 843214
Dawn Riach-Brown Community Support Warden
Over the past year I have covered Maidstone areas and now Tunbridge &
Malling due to a re shuffle.
My time spent in Sutton Valence is at the Youth club on a Monday night
and have a good attendance. We have had a report from the PCSO that since
the youth club started they have had no ASB issues reported.
In March we had a football tournament in T&M and we entered 2 teams 1x
11-13yrs 1 x 14-16yrs taking part and the older group reaching the semi-
finals. They have taken part in boxing training, football with
Charlton & the lacrosse team have also been working with our group.
I have been attending welfare visits and dealing with any issues, com-
plaints and referring where necessary to relevant partners/agencies.
We are working with Trading Standards regarding cold caller and scam mail
and visits have been made in the area and after if needed. I continue to
be available if needed on:07773397125
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ST MARY’S CHURCH
2015 was a very quiet year for the occasional offices (baptisms, weddings and funerals). This is probably just as well as it gave
your new vicar a chance to settle in and get to grips with life as the only Licensed member of clergy for this Benefice of four
churches.
However, that is not to say that nothing has been going on – there has been a lot of progress on the Loo & Kitchen project which
has not only included the appointment of a new architect with an associated change in plans but also some very successful fundrais-
ing activities which have also served to act as good outreach activities for the village.
In particular, we have enjoyed Michael Beaman’s archive mornings on the first Saturday of the month during the spring and sum-
mer; we have also enjoyed two concerts – one by Sue Wight’s “Companye of Singers” and the other by acclaimed Guitarist An-
drew Keeping with the Sutton Valence Prep School Mums’ Choir, “Mumma Mia”. We also had a very successful Christmas Fair in
November.
We are hopeful that work on the project will start by the end of the summer with completion in time for Harvest. This is, however,
dependent on the outcome of one more grant application.
The Parochial Church Council has been trying to look to the future and with this in mind have agreed a 5 year Mission Action Plan
with the aim of reaching out to the community and building the congregation, especially families. With this in mind we are hopeful
that we will be able to start a number of new initiatives as soon as the loo and kitchen have been completed.
The major services at Easter, Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas have been well attended this year as was a special service that
commemorated the 70th anniversary of VE Day. However, keeping our service pattern running as it does would not be possible
without the help of retired priests to whom we are very grateful. We are also very grateful to Lionel Marchant and all those (mainly
from Sutton Valence Choral society) who augmented the choir on Good Friday for our special evening service.
Monthly services have continued to be taken at Sutton Valence Care Home and it’s good that we have managed to establish a rela-
tionship with some of the staff and residents there.
The 5 yearly inspection of the building took place in November, we are pleased to say that the overall verdict on the state of the
church was that it is in a very good state of repair. Sadly the same cannot be said for some of the boundary walls and the Lych Gate
which are the responsibility of Maidstone Borough Council. We intend to arrange a meeting with them to see if our surveyor’s con-
cerns can be dealt with soon.
We are very grateful to the small army of pupils from Sutton Valence School who, weather permitting, come over twice weekly to
help keep the churchyard looking neat and tidy. The results of their work is now becoming very apparent.
Reverend Fiona Haskett
SUTTON VALENCE GARDENER’S ASSOCIATION
We have had 3 most interesting talks; Pearly King and Queen, John and Peggy Scott came along dressed in their beautiful costumes
and entertained us with their stories and songs and explained the history of the Pearly Kings, Queens, Princes and Princess. They
also talked about their charity work.
The History of Sissinghusrt Castle and Garden. Stephen Hunter related the story of one of the most visited gardens in England and
the connection with Vita Sackville-West.
Douglas Lindsay entertained the Members with the story of the Kent and Sussex Railway a fascinating history of one of the earliest
railways in the Country. It was restored and saved by all the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly for many years to keep
the trains going. The talk was made even more vibrant as Tony Doust and his friends brought along some magnificent railway
working models. All the “boys” in the hall were in their element.
The Spring Show as usual was a delight, wonderful displays and very well attended. The Summer Show was on Sunday 3rd July.
On Sunday 7th August, the Committee have organised a coach visit to Hyde Hall in Essex for the Flower Show, if you are interest-
ed, phone Audrey Bishop, 01622 843585.
If you still want to enjoy homemade cakes and tea on Show Days, more help is needed in the kitchen! Please phone Edie Watt on
01622 747703 if you can spare a few hours.
Eileen Riden
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Sutton Valence Choral Society
SVCS is a group of about 100 singers who rehearse on Monday evenings during term time at Sutton Va-lence School. We perform a concert each term: in No-vember and March a major choral work, with a lighter programme of shorter pieces in the summer and also a carol concert in the School Chapel in December.
Last summer’s concert was a special occasion at the chapel in the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and in November we performed Handel’s Samson at All Saints, Maidstone. We recorded a CD of Christ-mas music released last November – a few copies still remain and will be available later this year. On 21st May we ran a Walk & Sing, a sponsored walk taking in the churches of Ulcombe and the Three Suttons, singing briefly in each and collecting for our nominat-ed charities.
Other current plans include a return visit by the Ger-man choir who joined us to great effect in 2014, a joint concert with Thanet Festival Chorus of a major work to be performed in Canterbury cathedral, and for participation in a mass choir singing Verdi’s Requiem in Barcelona next summer.
However, SVCS is not an elite choir and new mem-bers are not subjected to an audition: we would be delighted to welcome anyone who would like to join us.
Andrew Hutchinson
Chairman SVSC
RNLI Maidstone Villages Branch Maidstone Villages Branch is primarily a group of like minded fund raisers, working tirelessly on behalf of the Lifeboats. Our funds each year reflect on the tremendous amount of effort we all put in raising during last year approx £10,000. We do exceeding-ly well, with our small numbers, and I’m proud that we continue as a Branch after 32 years.
We supported the very enthusiastic Ollie Arthur, our most recent Fundraising Manager at his Cluster Meeting in March, although he has now stood down, handing over to Liz Craig. Liz is very supportive and keeps me up to date with numerous emails and information. We met her for the first time at our meeting last October, when she told us that the traditional annual House to House collections are now discouraged. It is apparently looked upon as “cold calling”, and not to be continued, only collecting from those we know to be staunch supporters of the RNLI. We heard this with much relief, although of course it does mean we are losing about £1,000 for the Lifeboats.
As far as events are concerned during this past year, we spent a very chilly couple of days standing collecting in Tenterden’s Tesco Store. It’s the first time we’ve been offered that Store, but it certainly proved that the residents in that area are very gener-ous. We had an amazing total, far exceeding the totals we’ve had in the past at Tovil, where we have collected for several years now. Whilst there, one of our collectors received an invitation to visit an old lifeboat being restored at their farm, in a village nearby. Several of us went “to view” – it was a “wow”, a real spectacle, having been lovingly restored, complete with oars, named the William Riley of Birmingham and Leamington. We understand it is to be used for publicity, maybe for an Insurance Company – so watch this space!
Headcorn Street collection was another successful event with thanks to all the collectors, made up from all walks of life: com-mittee, friends, family, WI members – they all helped to raise a terrific amount last year. Anyone here who would like to help Maidstone Villages Branch, in any way – please contact me after this meeting, we do need men, to help with gazebos and flags, etc.
We have several events to hold this coming year, and I’ll thank you in advance for your usual support to Maidstone Villages Branch. Audrey Bishop Chairman Maidstone Villages Branch RNLI
LOCAL ARCHIVES The local archive, for which I collect material for East Sutton and Chart Sutton as well as for Sutton Valence, contin-ues to grow and it is surprising what turns up from time to time. Not so long ago I was given a plastic bag full of old magazines that had been rescued by somebody who fortunately was aware that there was a local archive and who thought that I ought to have a look at them before they went onto the bonfire. They were Chart Sutton Parish Maga-zines dating from the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century and any of you who came to my May exhibi-tion will have seen some of them and will, I hope, have realised what a shame it would have been had they gone on that bonfire. I am sure that there must be much more material stored away and forgotten about in attics, garages and sheds which will at some time in the future be thrown out, and I only hope that, before it is binned or burnt and lost for ever, its possible value as archive material will be considered. My monthly exhibitions during the summer are generally well supported; there are always coffee, tea and biscuits available and sometimes there are additional activities such as plant and/or cake sales going on at the same time in the church. I try to make the exhibitions as interesting as possible but I think that for at least some of those who come to them their main value is as social occasions. Michael Beaman
6
party at Bucking-
YOUTH CENTRE
During the last year the Centre has continued to be used regularly by two organisations namely The Suttons Scout Group and The Sutton Valence Pre-School. A limited number of occasional users have hired the Centre primarily for family events e.g. birthday parties.
The financial position of the Centre is sound, following the negotiation of a new Licence to Occupy with The Sutton Valence Pre School and changes in the cleaning arrangements for the Centre.
The Centre requires continuous maintenance and during the year:
The external painting of the Centre has been completed
An electrical fault has been repaired in the ceiling light system and all starters and fluorescent tubes have been replaced to provide improved lighting across the Centre
Damp, which is in the office used by The Pre-School, has been treated by installing additional air bricks; the effect of this change will be monitored to identify if any further work is required
New shelving has been installed in the kitchen to improve storage and two old fridges have been removed; a new cupboard has been installed in a corner of the main hall for the storage of buckets, mops and the vacuum cleaner.
The Centre received a gift of £450 from Fiona Haskett Vicar of the churches in Headcorn and the three Suttons; this flowed from a sponsored slim undertaken by Fiona from Christmas until Easter and it has been warmly re-ceived by the Centre and is an indication of the value of community giving
I wish to thank all those who, as Trustees or Members of the Management Committee, have supported the Cen-tre during the last year and indeed for many years; In particular I would mention Paul Baker, who has been a Trustee for many years and Fay Davidson, Sue Wright and Andy Weaver all of whom stood down at the AGM in October 2015. A new Trustee and various Management Committee Members have been appointed.
On a personal point I have explained to the Trustees and Management Committee I will not continue as Chair-man of the Centre Management Committee beyond the AGM which will be held towards the end of 2016. The Centre will then require a new Chairman and the Annual Parish Meeting is a good time to announce this in the hope someone from the Parish will feel prompted to come forward as a potential Chairman.
Brian Jones
Chairman Sutton Valence Youth Centre Management Committee
SUTTON VALENCE WI
There are 38 members who meet on the second Tuesday of the
month at 7:30pm in the Village Hall. We normally have a guest
speaker. We have a Christmas Party and a Summer outing.
During the month we have other activities: darts, scrabble, a
reading group, a film club and a lunch club. We are also lucky
to have a member who organises coach trips. The WI provide
its members with companionship and the opportunity to learn
new things. Visitors and new members are always welcome.
Rosie Easton
SUTTON VALENCE TABLE TENNIS CLUB
This club was formed by Allen Collins following the building of the
Village Hall in 1978.
Allen whose name is on the plaque abve the door who some of you
may know is still involved being our treasurer.
Our nmembership remains in low twenties ages ranging from 16 to
70. we had a successful year in the Maidstone League with promo-
tion for one team. We had good representation in the Maidstone
Championship with success for a number of our members. Club
nights is Monday at 7:30pm and we always welcome new players of
any standard.
Peter Newing
THREE SUTTONS HELP LINE
Over the past year we have received over 300 requests from the
parishioners of Sutton Valence, Chart Sutton, East Sutton,
Kingswood and Langley and have only failed to be able to
meet about 5 of these requests. Eighty of these lifts have been
to Maidstone hospital and a similar number to the Orchard Sur-
gery in Langley. Other journeys have included other hospitals,
dentists, clinics and doctors surgeries, essential shopping and
taking people to visit relatives in hospital.
Seventy eight of the 300 journeys have been for people in Sut-
ton Valence. 26 to Cobtree Mmedical surgery, 14 to Langley
surgery and 13 to Maidstone hospital.
10 of the 19 volunteer drivers and all 3 of the telephone co-
ordinators live in Sutton Valence, well done and thank you to
Sutton Valence
If you would like help or more information please telephone one of the following numbers
842530 * 842346 * 844301
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP WITH THE SCHEME BY BEING A VOLUNTEER DRIVER WE SHOULD LOVE TO
HEAR FROM YOU. PLEASE CONTACT CHRISTINE PARKES ON 842217 OR email
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QHOF 2015/16
QHOF is a group of likeminded people who raise funds for deserving
causes within the Three Suttons We also raise money for chosen local
charities via our major fund raising events.
In the last 16 months we have helped many beneficiaries, starting with
the 2015 pram race which raised funds for the Alzheimer's Society and
Dandelion Time a local organisation based in West Farleigh helping
troubled families with individual therapeutic practitioners help in a natu-
ral country environment, helping to restore trust and gain strength mak-
ing positive life changes.
During 2015 we helped fund a local surgery patient participation group
start up, a local pensioners group annual outing, the local Parish En-
hancement Group, the replacement of a local tradesman's tools stolen
from his van so that he could return to work, 2 pupils on a primary school
field trip and a local martial arts team. We have also helped in non mone-
tary ways such as removing a tree stump and marshalling the road clo-
sure on Remembrance Sunday.
The 2016 pram race was a successful day. It was well attended by both
prams and spectators which meant we were able to donate £3500 to our
chosen charity -Hayleys Heroes, set up by and in memory of of the late
Hayley Martin who had terminal cancer and sadly left behind a young
son Freddie earlier this year.
She set up the charity and support group dedicated to helping young
patients fight cancer and to fund the costs of experiences and treats to
give these young people magical memories. She also raised funds to
provide a friendly room—Hayleys Room in Maidstone oncology unit
where these young cancer sufferers could meet and receive support in a
warm and friendly environment.
Once again QHOF provided a Christmas tree for the village and you
hopefully noticed that this year we funded the lighting of Lambes Gar-
dens which will hopefully become an annual feature.
This meant that in the last 16 months we raised and gave away in excess
of £9250 to good causes and to improve our local environment.
Fund raising events this Summer include a 100m long water slide in the
village in the aid of Demelza House on July 16th a busy day with a party
atmosphere and a Summer ball once again in aid of Hayleys Heroes on
August 6th at Barling Farm, East Sutton. A fun night with an an auction,
live band, disco, a sit down meal all finishing up at 2am
in a heap.
Tickets are available for both events on the QHOF web-
site or from the Queens Head. Ian Betts - Chairman
The Royal British Legion Sutton Valence and District Branch I am pleased to report that the branch has had a very successful year and have maintained a very healthy membership of some 75 plus members and we are actively seeking new memebers Our branch meetings attract some 25 members and are held in the Café Sutton Valence School and we must thank them for letting us have use of the facilities. During the year we have held the equivalent of about one event a month. This included coach trips to East-bourne,and the National Memorial to the Few Capel-Le-Ferne Folkestone. The branch was represented at the service of Commemo-ration for the 200th anniversary of the allied victory at Waterloo and the arrival of the Waterloo dispatch at Canterbury Cathedral. Maureen and I were invited and attended on behalf of the Branch the Service of Commemoration and Rededi-cation of the Filmer Armorial Window at East Sutton Church which was organised by the Church and the Rochester Bridge Trust. Winter lunch at the Plough Langley, February coffee morning at Chart Sutton Village Hall, March Kentish high tea at the Mote Club restaurant, April annual award dinner at the Weald of Kent when some 50 members at-tended the occasion. The most important occasion of the year is the Remem-berance Day service. The poppy appeal is also very important and we do thank all those in the Village who contributed to another most successful collection. Mike FitzGerald Chair 01622 743270 email: [email protected]
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
We are now in our 6th year and I’m pleased to say that the support still seems to be strong for the scheme. The Sutton Valence Village Centre
Neighbourhood Watch group currently has some 48 members from 35 homes in the village.
I’m able to pass on and receive information regarding local crimes and anti-social behaviour that are relevant to the Village community. Through close links with Sophie Thring the Neighbourhood Watch Liaison Officer at Maidstone Police and our local PCSO Ed Money. Alt-hough very stretched Ed has been very helpful following up any issues or concerns we may have.
We are grateful to Colin, our postman who draws things to our attention which may threaten the security of the Village.
We usually have 2 very informal meetings through the year, which is an opportunity for neighbours to chat about local crime issues over a glass of wine.
As the scheme develops we are now getting more and more feedback from members regarding potential crime in the village. Through the email link we report the details to our contacts at the Police.
Figures show that crime is on the increase particularly burglary and with the Police under strain with budgetary and manpower cuts, I feel that the challenge for the Neighbourhood Watch Group will be even harder. So it’s even more important to keep our eyes peeled and communicate anything we see which could be a potential threat to our neighbours and the wider community.
To receive more detailed information on the NWA you could look on the website or google ‘Neighbourhood Watch—Maidstone. You will find some really worthwhile information including the app ‘Country Eye’. This enables you to take photos of fly tipping or vandalism for example and the image is immediately transmitted to the relevant authority.
Lesley Flint
8
SUTTON VALENCE VILLAGE HALL
Standing here last year in another role, it was not in my
plan to be standing here this year as your Village Hall
Chairman
A number of improvements have taken place during the
past year, September saw the heating system completely
overhauled, followed in October by the replacement of the
ground floor windows and doors, which, besides saving on
heating and decorating give a much better external appear-
ance. This was followed by the replacement of fascias,
soffits and gutters. In January the internal decorating was
carried out. There will always be ongoing maintenance.
The one remaining large expense will be the recovering of
the flat roof, as and when required.
Martin Stokes stood down as Chairman in January. Martin
spent a lot of time and effort in getting the hall to where it
is now and our thanks go to him. Being Vice Chairman at
this time I was asked to take the role of Chairman, and I
thank the committee for their support in particular Derrick
Parkes for his invaluable help during this transition. A new
booking secretary took over in March along with a new
cleaner, so an interesting and busy time.
Unfortunately there has been a net loss of income during
the past year with many major changes to the hall’s regular
users but with regular enquiries we hope this will translate
into increased usage of the hall , with most of the vacan-
cies being mornings and early afternoon.
The after school club ceased using the hall last July, we
were then approached by the Parish Council regarding the
area at the rear of the hall to be used as the Parish Clerk’s
office. Alterations were carried out and Janet is now in
residence.
Finally I believe you have a hall to be proud of and hope
you appreciate the work carried out.
Peter Newing
SUTTON VALENCE MUSIC SOCIETY
The 42nd season of the Music Society was another successful year for the Society, with good attendances and excellent performances given by award
winning young musicians in the Groves Hall of Sutton Valence School.
All the recitals are worthy of description but the largest audience was drawn by the prize winning cellist Ori Epstein, with piano accompaniment by his
brother Omri. Two other concerts were given by muscians who had played for us in previous seasons: Kosmos opened in September with their unique
programme inspired by music from all around the world and the Piatti Quartet made a welcome return in November having been prize winners in the 2015
Wigmore Hall International String Quartet competition. They perform widely in major venues and we felt privileged to hear them again in Sutton Va-
lence.
Traditionally all 6 concerts were held on Friday evenings but we find that those offered on Sunday afternoons in January and February are proving popu-
lar: this may have something to do with the complimentary tea and homemade cakes served in the school refectory.
During this season ,the Music Society welcomed 477 concert goers: a combination of members and visitors of all ages. Ticket prices on the door remain
unchanged while the season ticket is excellent value. Those 18 and under come free.
The 43rd season starts on Friday 23rd September with the Botticelli Piano Quartet who will come to us from Berlin.
Sutton Valence Music Society is extremely grateful to Sutton Valence School for allowing us to use, not only its piano but its purpose
built Music School the Groves Hall.
Patricia Stileman
Suttons Scout Group We have a new group chairperson Brian Jones and we thank our previous chairperson Neil Cuffe for his hard work as our chair for the last 2 years. We currently need more adult volunteers to help our section leaders due to growing numbers so if you’re interested please speak to me or any leader. Fundraising:
We are taking part in the Sainsbury’s active kids voucher scheme again this year, we would like to thank everyone for donating vouchers last year and hope they will again this year. Last year we collected just over 2531 vouchers. We use these vouchers to exchange for equipment. During the last year Suttons Scout Group have been very busy with dif-ferent events including: Group Activities:
Annual St George’s day parade in Maidstone - We paraded again this year on Sunday 24th April in Maidstone for St Georges Day.
The group went to see the Maidstone Districts Scouts Gang show at the Hazlit theatre Maidstone back in April 2015. Congratulations to one of our cubs James Rogan who took part for the first time and did us proud.
Our group came together for its AGM in July. Some long service awards were presented to some of our Adult Volunteers 5 years to Chris Hadley our Assistant Scout Leader and Julie McGowan our Assistant Cub Leader and 10 years to Andrew Osmer our Secretary. Remembrance day we joined forces with the local Royal British Legion branch and the Combined Cadet force from Sutton Valence School in a parade and service of Remembrance, we thank the Legion for organising this and inviting us to parade with them . 17 youth members and 5 leaders represented our group at this parade. have many fun and exciting things to look forward to in the coming year, including the beaver scouting celebrating 30 years of beavers and cub scouting celebrating 100 years of cubs.
We would like to extend thanks to:
The Waring family for the use of their property and land for Scout-ing.
Sutton Valence Tennis Club for the use of their courts. We wish to thank the Chart Sutton Village News team, the Sutton Va-lence Parish News team, the Weald Views in the Three Suttons magazine team and Valerie Underdown the Kent Messenger correspondent for printing a regular Scouting feature to help promote our group, may this continue. For more information or to join Suttons Scout group either as a young person or adult leader or helper please contact:
Clare Hampson on 01622 862894 for Beavers young people aged 6 to 8 years
Linda Waring on 01622 843112 for Cubs young people aged 8 to 10 Tim Waring on 01622 670987 for Scouts young people aged 10 to 14 Or if you wish to email: [email protected] please include your name and telephone number and the nature of your enquiry, many thanks Brian Osmer
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Forest School At Sutton Valence Primary School
We have been fortunate enough to have Forest School this term. Forest school is all about outdoor learning where we can
learn skills, co-operate together and grow in confidence. I enjoy Forest School because I have learnt many new skills which will help me in the future and I am not an outdoor person. We usually do things like; bird watching, planting of flowers and vegeta-bles, using tools (palm drill, bow saw and hacksaw) looking after our chickens and holding them, pond dipping and many more fantastic activities.
We have learnt how to tie a clove hitch knot and do lashing, with these skills we were able to make our own washing up table for outdoor use. Constructing a canopy in the trees has allowed us to have shade in the hot sun as well as shelter on rainy days.
As part of team building we had to make a square with rope…BLINDFOLDED! What a challenge this was?
From the herbs and plants in school we have worked in our kitchen to produce garlic bread, sage popcorn and nettle tea – all of
which were delicious. These new flavours were not liked by everyone.
Back in class we follow up our learning in our Forest School journals by recording the activities we have experienced, writing captions for our many photographs and designing an instruction sheet for others.
I would recommend Forest School to anyone. Wednesdays are the best days of my school week!
Lauren Year 5
Headcorn Children’s Centre
Free Summer Play Event for Families to Enjoy Together
This August the team from Headcorn Children’s Centre will be providing a range of play activities to support families with young children. This is a good opportunity to meet and make friends while enjoying Messy Play, Art and Craft, Dressing Up, etc. The team understand being a parent is the
hardest job because babies and children don’t come with a set of instructions! It can be particularly hard to keep coming up with new ideas to amuse the family during the long summer holiday. Join us for fun at The Harbour recreation ground:
Tuesday 16 August 1.30pm to 3.00pm
Headcorn Children’s Centre is located in The Green Room at The Village Hall, Church Lane, Headcorn and is open:
Tuesdays 8.30 to 4.30, Wednesdays 8.30 to 4.30 and Thursdays 1.30 to 4.30
Get your copy of our latest timetable by visiting our website www.kent.gov.uk/childrenscentres, emailing [email protected] or telephone: 01622 892189
Look forward to seeing you soon!
Lesley, Karen, Asma, Cassie, Anna, Charlotte and Frances
JUBILEE COMMITTEE — THE QUEEN’S 90th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
THE JUBILEE COMMITTEE PUT ON A VERY SUCCESSFUL AFTERNOON TEA WITH ENTERTAINMENT TO CELEBRATE THE
QUEEN’S 90th BIRTHDAY. AS YOU CAN SEE THE AFTERNOON WAS MUCH ENJOYED. THERE ARE MORE PICTURES ON THE
PARISH COUNCIL WEBSITE
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QHOF WATER SLIDE
16th JULY 2016
QHOF SUMMER BALL
6th AUGUST 2016
SEE : WWW.QHOF.CO.UK FOR MORE INFORMATION
KCC TRADING STANDARDS
WATCH OUT FOR THE NO HANG-UP TELEPHONE SCAM
THERE HAVE BEEN REPORTS OF A SCAMMER TARGETING RESIDENTS WITH THE ‘NO HANG-UP’ TELEPHONE SCAM. THIS IS
WHEN THE FRAUDSTER KEEPS THE LINE OPEN, SPOOFS A DIAL TONE AND THE FRAUDSTER’S ACCOMPLICE ANSWERS
AND IMPERSONATES WHOEVER THE VICTIM THINKS THEY ARE TRYING TO CALL. IF YOU RECEIVE A CALL YOU ARE NOT
EXPECTING, BE WARY. NEVER DISCLOSE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION SUCH AS BANK DETAILS OVER THE TELEPHONE
NO MATTER WHO THE CALLER CLAIMS TO BE.
HMRC TAX SCAM TARGETING KENT RESIDENTS
SCAM TELEPHONE CALLERS ARE CLAIMING TO BE FROM HMRC , REQUESTING OUTSTANDING PAYMENTS FROM RESI-
DENTS OR OFFERING REBATES. THESE CALLS ARE NOT BEING MADE BY HMRC AND SCAMMERS MAY BE USING CALLER
ID SPOOFING EQUIPMENT TO MAKE THE CALL APPEAR GENUINE.NEVER DISCLOSE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION SUCH
AS BANK DETAILS OVER THE TELEPHONE NO MATTER WHO THE CALLER CLAIMS TO BE.
FOR ADVICE AND TO REPORT ISSUES TO KCC TRADING STANDARDS PHONE 03454 04 05 06
OR IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS AND WOULD LIKE A HOME VISIT FROM THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT WARDEN RING DAWN RIACH-BROWN ON: 07773397125
Heart of Kent Hospice Moonlit Walk
Saturday 17th September Starting at 9 pm from the Hos-pice in Aylesford (ME20 7PU) Reduced entry fee before 31st July. Zumba Warm Up and T Shirt for every walker. The Hospice invites you to join its annual 8 mile spon-sored walk under the stars to remember loved ones and sup-port its work . For full details visit www.hokh.org.
ART INSTALLATION
For a university project, we were given the task of putting up an art exhibition. I was inspired by
street artists who put up art installations in an unlikely public spaces to create a mystery. In other
projects I had been looking at the debate between art and craft. Home crafts are seen as not true
forms of art as they lack concept. I disagreed with this and believe you can use any design or craft
techniques and make it meaningful. My concept for this project was to put up a normal looking
shed and fill it with home crafts such as textiles and decopatch. In the shed I put up a canvas
painting in reds and oranges, with the aim of people using the attached pen to write on it, allowing
the people of Sutton Valence to interact with the installation. Anyone was welcome to view or even
play in the shed. I attached balloons to the shed which ended up
making it look like a party house. I chose Sutton Valence because it
is where I grew up, I have lived here for sixteen years. I chose the
gravel where the old play park used to be so that I could bring back
the joy of my childhood. Overall the piece was sort of shabby, but I
felt like it achieved my aims of creating mystery, bringing a fun
piece of art to the village and finally using crafts to create a mean-
ingful piece of artwork. Although people might not consider the
work a piece of fine art, the installation was very meaningful to me,
as it was dedicated to my mother’s love of home crafts and brought
back fond memories of my childhood.
Harriet Poulter
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16th July QHOF water slide 2nd August Neighbourhood Plan meeting 4th August Parish Council Clinic —11:00am to 1:00pm 6th August Archive Exhibition at the Church 6th August QHOF Ball 8th August Sutton Valence Parish Council meeting 16th August Play Scheme at The Harbour play field 1:30pm to 3.00pm 18th August Parish Council Clinic —11:00am to 1:00pm 1st September Parish Council Clinic —11:00am to 1:00pm 3rd September Archive Exhibition at the Church 6th September Neighbourhood Plan meeting 12th September Sutton Valence Parish Council meeting 15th September Parish Council Clinic —11:00am to 1:00pm 23rd September Sutton Valence Music Society concert— Botticelli Piano Quartet 24th September Neighbourhood Plan public meeting — all day event
Parish Councillors
Cllr. Eileen Riden, Chairman (844953)
Cllr Lorraine Cook (07974375727)
Cllr Derek Eagle (07956344722)
Cllr Sharon Judge ( 07788858772)
Cllr Chris Poole (07879811144)
Cllr Eve Poulter (843876)
Cllr. Maurice Stancombe (844845)
Clerk to the Parish Council
Mrs Janet Burnett (844135)
Borough Councillor
Cllr. Paulina Stockell (842508)
County Councillor
Cllr. Eric Hotson (01580 892312)
Neighbourhood Planning Chairman
Barry Armstrong (842129)
Village Hall
Chairman: Peter Newing (850197)
Bookings: Jane Cowen (842024
Newsletter
Email the Clerk (as above) or to Janet on
Community Support
Warden
Dawn Riach-Brown
To contact Dawn
phone:
07773397125
The Parish council is not
responsible for faults on
the roads, pavements or
public rights of way. To
report a fault ring KCC
on:
Highway Faults
03000418181
Public Rights of Way
03000417171
Or email:
www.kent.gov.uk
NEW PCSO Sutton Valence has a new PCSO: Thomas Maybank. To contact Tom use the email address: [email protected]
12
Sutton Valence Parish Council do not endorse or recommend any of the services or products advertised here.
Haven Farm Shop &
Tea Rooms
Haven Farm Shop and Post Office Local North Street, Sutton Valence. 844789 We stock local and organic Kent milk and bcream, ‘korkers’ sausages, ‘cook’ frozen meals, Staplehurst honey and comb, chutney, jams and preserves. Opening times Mon-Sat 8am -6pm Sun 10am-4pm.
We are local Pre-School offering places for 2-5 year olds. We offer the full 15 hours free
entitlement for 3 and 4 year olds and we are registered for the Free for 2 scheme.
Please contact us for further details on 01622 842388/email
Sutton Valence
Pre-School
MASTERSPARKS
Electrical
MASTERSPARKS Electrical – Safe Electrics for your Home. Fully Qualified and In-sured, Part P Registered Electrician; for Lighting, Sockets, Showers, Security, Heating, Consumer Units, Garden Lighting, Pond Pumps, Testing and Inspection, at prices that won’t give you a shock!
Call Richard on 01622 843120 or 07921 564169 or visit www.mastersparks.co.uk
Computer Problems? I specialise in computer repair/IT Support for home and Business-es in the local support. With Many years IT Experience, I offer a quick and cheap service. Please call Dean on: 07722293187 or Email [email protected] £25 p/h,
NO FIX NO FEE, NO CALL OUT CHARGE.
Computer Problems?
Did you know?
A copy of this newsletter is on the parish website - in colour. Visit: suttonvalencepc.kentparishes.gov.uk
Sue Davies Flowers
The Old Butchers Shop, Sutton Valence ME17 3AJ. Wedding and Event flowers, Parties and Celebrations, Bereavements. Summer Flower Arranging workshops. Christmas Decoration Shop and Workshops. Please contact me on 07703 423522 or [email protected] Visit my website - www.suedaviesflowers.com
A.W. Court Funeral Directors
A.W. Court are an independent family run Funeral Directors, based in Grafty Green, offering the highest standard of care and facilities to those we serve in and around Kent. At the earliest stage possible you will deal directly with one of our experienced Funeral Directors who, if wished, will come to see you in the comfort of your own home and will advise and gently guide you through every aspect of the funeral arrangements, giving you a reassuring familiar face at an often distressing and sometimes bewildering time. To find out more about our services, including the many benefits of our pre-paid funeral plans, please visit our website www.awcourt.com or call us on 01622 850840.
