PEMBURYVILLAGENEWSIssue 91 / Autumn 1997

WHAT HAPPENED ON28th SEPTEMBER 1847?The answer is on Page 3

ContentsApples 9Britain in Bloom 4Church Times 29Community Working Group 23Cycling Around Pembury 19For Your Diary 27Friends of Pembury Parish

Church 9Gill’s Garden 4Gourmet Delights 21Hospice in the Weald 5Millennium Celebrations 15Neighbourhood Watch 23The Old Coach Road 20

Orpheus Male Voice Choir 12Parish Map 11Parish News and Comment 2Pembury Bridge Club 12Pembury Evening WI 9Pembury Gardeners 5Pembury in the Past 16/17Pembury Recreation Ground 12Pembury School 6Pembury Society 19Pembury Quiz 11Sport in the Village

Pembury Cricket Club 13St Peter’s 150th Anniversary 3St Peter’s Church Singers 3Vandalism 25Village Fayre in 1998 2Village Organisations 31WRVS Luncheon Club 11Your Clerk Reports 25Your Representatives 29

Cover photograph courtesy David Sellman

FOR many of us Pembury is a very pleasant village – a village where we haveour homes and where we spend our time – with families, friends, clubs,

societies, schools, churches and work.

During the summer months we watch Pembury come alive. The trees and thecountryside are beautiful and the oak tree on the Green seems a perfect symbol.Events like the Summer Fayre, when visitors remark that they are pleased to behere and not in the town, remind us of what we have and what we share.

Sadly we still have those few – maybe younger members – who seem to want todestroy and damage. The morning after the Fayre the Recreation Ground was ashambles: covered with litter, burnt paper where fires had been started, brokenglass and cans. All the debris so carefully collected had been upended and thrownabout.

Children use the Recreation Ground every day. A child could have been badlyhurt. A few people volunteered and soon it was as if it had never happened. Butevery now and again we are reminded of those who do not care about where theylive and those who live here. Perhaps it is time they thought about the effects thattheir perceived “entertainment” has on others – and the harm it can cause.

Sarah Clarke

PEMBURYVILLAGENEWSEDITORHenry Plant16 The CoppiceTel: 823459

Pembury Village Newsis published four timesa year by the ParishCouncil, but the viewsexpressed in themagazine do notnecessarily representofficial council opinionor policy.Typeset and printed byRapido ’91 Limited,Tunbridge Wells.

COPY FOR NEXT ISSUE

Any news items or articles for possible

inclusion in the next issue of this

Magazine must be forwarded to the

Editor before 1st November 1997.

PPaarriisshh NNeewwss && CCoommmmeenntt

Editorial Committee:Henry Plant (Chairman), Julia Croft, Gill Matthews and Betty Roberts

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THE SCOUTS & Guides and Pembury Athletic (Youth) Football Club desperatelyneed someone to replace Paul Russell to co-ordinate the Village Fayre in 1998. Theenergy generated by these groups is enormous but they need the back-up of anorganised person to gather information about stalls etc. in the build up to the FayreIf anybody feels they could help please contact Barbara Russell (823193) orLaurie Frowde (822826).

DO YOU HAVE CO-ORDINATION?

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ST PETER’S UPPER CHURCH 150th ANNIVERSARY

THIS Autumn we celebrate the 150thanniversary of the consecration of the

Upper Church of St. Peter. In fact, it was on28th September 1847 that the thenArchbishop of Canterbury, William Howley,came to dedicate the new church.

This year we shall be holding a special serviceof celebration and commitment on 28thSeptember at 9.45am. On the same day, at6.30pm, the Choristers of CanterburyCathedral will be giving a concert in thechurch. There will be no tickets in advancefor this – so do come in good time to be sureof a seat! There will be a retiring collection inaid of church funds.

At the end of October, we shall be staging“St. Peter’s Pageant” in the church. This willtake place on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26thOctober, at 7.30pm on both days. With musicand drama, members of the church will betracing the history of our two churches in the

life of the village and celebrating our life inthe community now, thinking too of the life ofour patron saint, St. Peter.

We hope many people in the village will wantto come and share in our pageant. Admissionwill be by programme (to include lightrefreshments) – £3 each; £1.50 forconcessions. These will be availablebeforehand from Ditchett’s Chemists; fromthe church on Sundays; or from the vicarage,4 Hastings Road (tel: 824761). All will bewelcome for an evening which should be ofinterest for the whole family.

Funds raised from the concert on 28thSeptember and from “St. Peter’s Pageant” on25th and 26th October will be used to helpour “Vision 91” project which we hope tocomplete this autumn – to provide extra spacefor our growing Sunday School and to offerbetter facilities in the church which can beused by the whole village community.

THIS group of singers was formed in the autumn of 1996 by the Rev. Stephen Sealey frommembers of the Upper Church of St. Peters. This followed requests from those who

naturally enjoy singing and felt that forming such a group could enhance the Sunday servicesand encourage other members of the congregation to sing with even great gusto.The numbers have gradually increased and there are now 18 members, listed below, althoughmore are always welcome; a few more male singers would be very welcome.The standard of singing has improved considerably under Stephen’s guidance with severalindividual pieces being sung at Sunday Service, Easter and the Mayor’s InaugurationCeremony.The Christmas Carol Service was a huge success and we look forward to a repeat performancethis Christmas.If you would enjoy singing andwould like to join Jill Marshall,Evelyn Fiddimore, Wendy Mew,Kate Lucas, Gordon Brooks,Hugh Boorman, Brian Sands,Janet Sands, Paul Crook,Linda Goodwin, Jill Marchant,Kerry Forward, Carole Brewer,Andrea Moore, HeatherHughes, Judith Coggles,Meg Thomas, Hilary Thomasplease contact Stephen Sealeyat the Vicarage.Hugh Boorman

ST PETER’S CHURCH SINGERS

PEMBURY in Bloom, sponsored by Transgas, was judged by Kenwyn Pearson on July 4th as partof “South East in Bloom”. The route taken was from the village green, the War Memorial, the OldChurch and Kent College grounds and back to the recreation ground, taking into account thevarious front gardens on the way and finally ending up at Larkfield Hall. The results were publishedthis week but sadly Pembury was not mentioned. The second competition took place on July 9thand was judged by Bob Collard together with the Bloom Committee from Tunbridge Wells.

Coronation Garden was planted with the help of the groundsmen with annuals, hydrangeas andconifers in kidney-shaped beds but unfortunately by the time that the judging took place half ofthese were either damaged or missing. We had taken photos as we finished the planting so were ableto show these but of course they were no substitute for the real thing. Since then the sign on thevillage green has also been vandalised. A big “thank you” goes to Larkfield Hall for donating theplants for the War Memorial this year.

Prizes and certificates were awarded as the eagerly awaited results ofPembury’s “In Bloom” competition were announced at a tea partyfor the finalists, held at Notcutts Garden Centre, Pembury onWednesday, 27th August. The adjoining pictures shows, left to right,Jean Smith (Notcutts garden centre manager), Gary Lawrence(winner of the Best Hanging Basket Category), Clifford Williams(winner of the Notcutts Best Front Garden Prize) and Gill Matthews(Pembury Parish Council). The Notcutts Rose Bowl for the mostattractive Commercial Frontage went to The Black Horse,High Street. This competition was jointly organised by the PemburyParish Council and Notcutts and sponsored by its garden centre.

BRITAIN IN BLOOM

AUTUMN is the best time to plant trees,shrubs and soft fruits while the ground is stillwarm; bone meal used in the bottom of thehole while planting will release food slowlyduring the winter. Dahlias should be dug upand stored in frost free conditions, hardyFuschias should be covered with compost to adepth of a few inches to protect the plantsfrom frost damage. Geraniums and Fuschiasshould be lifted and kept frost free and dryuntil January when they can be given water tostart them into growth again.There is still time to take cuttings of SurfinaPertunias, Bidens Aurea, Helicrysum andHardy Lobelia which can be over-winteredready for hanging baskets in the Spring. If youare growing Clematis and Pinks these willneed a dressing of Nitro Chalk in Spring andAutumn to keep plants healthy. Lawns shouldhave leaves removed and be spiked andAutumn food supplied. New lawns can bestarted from seed now. Bulbs can be planted

now, a few put inpots can be usedas house plantsin the Winter.Patiocontainersand evenhanging baskets can be planted with PurpleSage, Cineraria-Maritima, Thyme, Lamium,Euonymus, Oregano and Ajuga Rainbow.These will need watering with tomato fertiliserwhich contains potash to improve leaf colour.Do not use a high nitrogen feed as thisencourages new shoots which can be damagedby frost. Winter flowering Heathers under-planted with small bulbs, Crocus, Iris andminiature Daffodils, Anemone Blanda,Muscari and winter flowering Pansies andPolyanthus can all be put in now to bloomthrough winter into Spring.Gill Matthews

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GILL’S GARDEN

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HOSPICE IN THE WEALDPEMBURY LINK GROUP has changed itscurrent target to the provision of a coffeeroom for patients at the Hospice and theirvisitors. The previous intention to equip abathroom, to foIlow the Pembury bedroomalready paid for, was abandoned when it wasfound that other local Groups are ready tosponsor all the bathrooms needed. The costwill be the same – £10,000 – and, ifachieved, the room will be called afterPembury’s mediaeval name of Pepenbury.Nearly half the sum had been raised by theend of July, with the Barn Dance at Pippins

Farm in June having been a particularsuccess. Forthcoming events include a BridgeEvening on October 24th (bridge enthusiastsplease make a note!) and the biggest of allthis year’s fundraising activities, the CountryFayre at Pippins on 4th October, repeated bypopular request. The Fayre will be openedby His Worship the Mayor and attended bythe Pearly King and Queen. Most attractionswill be moved under cover if wet but let’shope last year’s good weather will berepeated.

PEMBURY GARDENERS – CALLING ALL VILLAGERS

THERE can’t be many people in Pembury who don’t have a garden – whether it’s postagestamp size or an acre or two – and these people will range from novices to those with many

years of experience.

The Pembury Horticultural Society, now PEMBURY GARDENERS SOCIETY, has been inexistence for 52 years and the current committee have given about 100 years service betweenthem. However, with changing times and the growth and popularity of garden centres, we arefinding it increasingly difficult to generate interest in our worthwhile part of village life. Perhapswe need the advice of someone in the marketing field to inject some new ideas – any offersplease?

Pembury Gardeners Society organise enjoyable coach outings – attended by all ages I might add– this year to Hillier’s beautiful Gardens in Ampthill and one to Borde Hill Gardens, HaywardsHeath. To join the “Club” costs the nominal sum of £1.50 per annum per family, senior citizensat half price. This also entitles you to buy gardening materials such as peat, composts, nutrients,canes etc. from our premises on the Parish Council’s allotments in Woodside Road between10am and noon on Sunday mornings. You can join there and obtain Show Schedules or call ourSecetary, Mr Pavely on 822605. Our prices are still very competitive and you get a warmwelcome with the chance to talk about your successes and failures and possibly some expertadvice if needed. Sorry we can’t offer refreshments there, although that would be pleasant.

Our Summer Show was a success despite the bad weather previously which affected the amountof flowers on show. The plants and home-made cakes sold like “hot cakes” and, of course, thoseexhibits which were kindly donated to help raise funds were auctioned and quickly snapped upat bargain prices with the help of Jim Lear who kept the lively bidding under control. Tea, coffee,cakes and biscuits were served throughout the afternoon at old fashioned prices.

The exhibits at the Autumn Show were excellent including the children’s but more children’sentries and new competitors would be especially welcomed.

Come on fellow Pembury Villagers! don’t let our well established Club disappear, it is part ofvillage life now. With your help (and perhaps some new committee members!) we will still be upand running well into the next millennium. As mentioned before any bright ideas would be morethan welcome!

Next event – Hallowe’en 60-70’s Disco on 25th October 1997.

Beryl Webb, Committee member

AT the time of writing thisarticle the school summerholidays were just

beginning. The summer term isalways busy with School eventssuch as sports days and outingsand events organised by parents,such as the fete.

Apart from the normal schoolactivities the School had its firstinspection commissioned by the Officefor Standards in Education (OFSTED).The OFSTED inspection gives anindependent opinion on the following:

(a) the standards achieved by pupils,(b) the quality of education provided by

the school,(c) the efficiency with which financial

resources were used,(d) the contribution made by the school

to its pupils’ spiritual, moral, socialand cultural development.

The inspection process began with theinspectors meeting separately staff,governors and parents. The inspectorstook account of parents’ views aired atthe meeting and the questionnaireresponses when they did their inspection.

In June seven inspectors arrived andspent 24 man days at the School much ofthe time in the classroom attendinglessons and looking at pupils’ work.Inspectors discussed each subject withthe staff member responsible for thatsubject.

They also had several meetings with theHeadteacher and met each sub-committee of the Governing Body. AsChairman of the Governing Body I hadmeetings with two inspectors on separateoccasions.

The inspection report was published on17th July and a summary issued toparents the next day.

The School received a goodreport with attainment in the coresubjects of English, Mathematicsand Science above average. Theinspector who looked atmathematics was so impressedwith the planning and delivery of

the subject that she has sinceinvited the Deputy Headteacher,

Christina Lundberg, the mathematicsco-ordinator, to write a paper on the

subject.

The report praised the Headteacher, BobEdom, for his strong leadership, his clearvision and for pulling together the staff toform a cohesive team. It was also notedin the report that the School created aclimate for good behaviour and hardwork.

The following items were identified foraction: assessment practice; culturaleducation; improving the quality ofteaching, particularly in the optionalsubject of French; in Year Four, themonitoring of health and safety; and thedevelopment of an Under Five’s Policy.

The issue of assessment had beenidentified in the School’s DevelopmentPlan and some of the other issues havealready been addressed.

Both the staff and the governors werevery pleased with the report confirming,as it does, the high quality of educationprovided by the School.

The OFSTED inspection is just one ofmany changes to the education system inrecent years. When I look back over mynine years as a governor I realise howmuch the responsibilities of governorsand senior staff have increased asmanagement of school’s has passed fromthe Local Authority to the schools.

Tony Matthews

6

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9

AT the Pembury Village Fayre in July 1was helping in the Refreshment Tent.

For the second year, I was most impressedwith the politeness of the children and youngpeople when they were buying crisps anddrinks.

Almost without exception there was a“Please” and “Thank-you” and, when theirchoice was not available, they cheerfully

settled for a different one.

When so many times today we hear onlydetrimental things about our young people,I think that the children and young people ofPembury deserve “big pats on their backs”for their behaviour at the Fete.

A Member of the Pembury Evening WI

PEMBURY EVENING WI

On Friday 27th June it poured with rain and the road to the O1d Church was flooded, butdespite all this the volunteers all turned out. By Friday evening the Church was filled with

displays of flowers from many of the village organisations and schools.

By Saturday morning the skies had cleared and the Church was open all weekend The children’sdisplays from Pembury School and from Sandra Toogood’s Nursery were beautifully presented aswere the displays from the Floral Arts Group and from the Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. Therewere too many people involved to be mentioned individually but the efforts on Friday were worth it.

The weekend celebrated the Festival of St. Peter and on Saturday evening there was a well attendedEvensong Service with the Choir of St. Mary’s, Caterham providing anthems and leading theservice. On Sunday morning the Church remained open after the morning service for the rest of theday. Tea and coffee were provided throughout the weekend.

Those who visited were impressed by the standard of the various displays and donations in excessof £600 will be used for the continuing maintenance of the Church. Thanks are due to all thosewho helped in any and every way.

Sarah Clarke

FRIENDS OF PEMBURY PARISH CHURCH

AUTUMN, a time associated with applepicking. Pippins is an Old English

Orchard consisting almost entirely of Englishapples. Although planted in Spring 1984 theyhave varieties dating back several hundredyears. A few recent introductions have beenadded for interest.Grenadier, the first of the cooking apples,dates back to 1960 whilst Blenheim Orange,no longer commercially grown, was discoveredin Oxfordshire in 1740.Peasgood Nonsuch, a working apple for autumnuse, was raised from a seedling in Lincolnshirein 1850 and Crawley Beauty, a late floweringvariety which usually escapes the frost, as itsname suggests, came from Crawley in 1900.

King of the Pippins, a late desert apple wasintroduced in 1899.Sunset, a variety that is grown where Cox’s isdifficult, was raised in Sevenoaks in 1918.Tydemans Late Orange, a late eating applewhich keeps until March, was raised in l930 atEast Malling. Laxton Fortune was raised in1904 in BedfordshireThe usual group of Bramley’s are available butunfortunately, owing to a late frost on May 7ththis year, the hardest since 1936, a lot of theblossom was destroyed. However, hopefullynext year will prove a better Spring.Gill Matthews

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11

PARISH MAPAS mentioned on page 15, it is theintention of the Pembury Parish Councilto mark the Millennium by helping to co-ordiate and fund the production of aParish Map.

What is a Parish Map?

A Parish Map is an illustration of whatparishioners claim as their own localityand what they value in it. It is notintended that the project be constrainedby conventional mapping scales, size andmethods. Parish Maps have been sewn,woven, knitted, printed, drawn or painted.It does not have to be precise orcartographically correct but by illustratinglocally distinctive features it helps to focuson the things that make our villagesignificant to us and different from othercommunities.

Why “Parish”? The word “Parish” issuggested to describe an area with whichpeople feel a sense of familiarity in their

neighbourhood, to which they feel a senseof belonging.

What would you like to be included onthe Map? – let us know!

On behalf of the Parish Council, theEditorial Committee would like to inviteyou to offer your services in whatever formyou can to help us in this project, to cometogether with others to chart the thingsthat are valued locally in order to helpcreate what can be a significant piece ofPembury’s history.

Any skill – needlework, tapestry, maping,artists, historians, calligraphers, walkers,members of our numerous localorganisations – the list is endless.Everyone’s values are needed – everyone’sskills are important.

Will you help?

Henry Plant

WRVS LUNCHEON CLUBTHE Luncheon Club meets every Wednesday in term time at the Village Hall, Pemburyfrom 11.30am to 1 o’clock. Special diets are catered for and lifts arranged for those whoneed them. If you would like to come along to meet people and have a good meal please getin touch with Marie Williams, phone 822737.

PEMBURY QUIZYou’ve had your holiday. The children are back at school.

Time to put on your thinking caps on again. The Annual Quiz, in aid of local charities,will be at 8pm on 16th October in the Village Hall: teams of four (over 16s only)£6 per team.

Entry forms can be obtained from Betty Roberts, 16 Woodhill Park, Pembury.

PEMBURY BRIDGE CLUB

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THE first Annual General Meeting ofPembury Bridge Club took place at the

Camden Court Community Room at 7pmon Tuesday 8th July 1997.

32 members attended and it was agreed byall present that it had been a very good firstyear, all sessions of duplicate bridge hadbeen well attended and members hadenjoyed good friendly competitive bridge.

The Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary andCommittee were all re-elected en bloc.

It was decided on a majority vote that the

club should join the English Bridge Union,which is the governing body of the game.

The individual competition, which has runthroughout the year, was won by GeoffPlummer and Donald Allen was runner-up.It has been decided that other competitionsshould be added in this next year – pairs,teams, prize nights and random pairs

After the meeting the usual Tuesday eveningsession of duplicate bridge took place, atwhich there were nine and a half tables

Geoff Plummer

ORPHEUS MALE VOICE CHOIR

WE are seeking men who first andforemost like to sing. It is not

necessary that they are able to read musicand they would not be required to audition.We are looking for team players, not soloists,as male voice choir music is a blend of manyvoices to create an overall harmonioussound.

Our rehearsal night is Thursday between7.30-9.30pm and we meet at St. Peter’sChurch Hall in Bayhall Road, TunbridgeWells. Our membership fee is £21.00 peryear and new members would be required tomake a small payment towards the cost oftheir uniform.

Our concerts are usually in the Kent/Sussexarea although we do go further afield whenrequired. Most of our concerts are put onfor charitable appeals and causes, althoughour main Assembly Hall concert in Mayeach year is held to raise funds for the choir.

The new season starts on Thursday 4thSeptember so we would welcome any newfaces (and voices) who care to turn up.

Further details may be obtained bytelephoning 01732 355771 (home) or 01732363897 (office telephone and fax) or 0976407984 (mobile). A message answeringservice is operational on the last twonumbers.

PEMBURY RECREATION GROUND

You may have noticed that the Parish Council has erected a disused bus shelter on theRecreation Ground. This, of course, is mainly for general use but partly to give local

youngsters somewhere to sit and chat in the evenings.

Unfortunately it has already been ‘decorated’ with the inevitable juvenile graffiti and the roofingfelt has been damaged.

We realise it is not ideal but our appeal for premises for a ‘drop-in’ coffee bar has so far had noresponse.

If the shelter is wrecked, it is unlikely to be replaced so please – LOOK AFTER IT!

Betty Roberts

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PEMBURY CRICKET CLUB –SEASON 1997

ALTHOUGH the playing season is notquite over the League programme wascompleted on Saturday 30th August 1997.Both of our League teams have had asuccessful season ending as runners-up intheir respective divisions of the Kent VillageLeague. The 1st XI were very unlucky notto be League Champions, due more to thebonus points system than to the actualresults achieved on the field.

At start of play on the final day Pemburywere tied on points withSissinghurst. Pembury had only lostone match and had one gamerained off, not so at Sissinghurst. Afull 14 points at St Lawrence wouldhave secured the title butunfortunately, despite the team’sbest efforts, we could only manage12. Sissinghurst managed 14 atBidborough so Pembury lost theChampionship by just two points.

The season has, nonetheless, been a goodone. The side gelled into a team under theable captaincy of Jamie Lovell. The spiritwas excellent and the fielding always putpressure on the opposition batsmen.

Chris Pugh, who opened the batting, scoreda couple of unbeaten centuries, RichardDawes scored another and Simon Begleychipped in with a 90. David Knightconfused several sides with his bowling andPeter Davis reminded us of his previousform on more than once occasion. The mostexciting finish was at home to Plaxtol. Withone over to go Pembury needed 11 runs towin with their last pair at the wicket. Allappeared lost until Bob Eaton cracked thelast ball for six seeing Pembury home by tworuns.

The 2nd Xl, skippered by Denis Cole, alsohad a good season although they wouldagree that they lost to a couple of sides thatthey should have beaten. The battingconsistency was in the hands of ColinBarden, Peter Massie, Adrian Bradford and,when available, Alan Moxon. Young Duncan

McClintock came into the side on severaloccasions and shows promise both behindthe stumps and with the bat, top scoringwith 61 against Crockham Hill. The bowlingsaw the old war horse Alan Hughes still ableto control the game with his medium paceand Adrian Bradford and Keith Hemstalkencouraged batsmen into errors with theirspin and flight.Probably the most enjoyable cricket, toplayers and spectators alike, as usualoccurred in the Chequers Evening League.Pembury, captained by Richard Dawes,finished in third place, with Wadhurst taking

the title. Richard Dawes was runnerup for the bowling award and MarkCross for the batting award.The Sunday side, captained by BobEaton, have also enjoyed theircricket. Without the pressure of theleague players were able to relax andenjoy the game and it gave the Clubthe opportunity of mixing in theyounger players to judge their abilityand suggest ways of improving their

technique and therefore their enjoyment.As with most village clubs the players owe adebt of gratitude to a large number ofhelpers who turn out week in week out toensure that this Club runs almost perfectly.Melvyn Cole who prepares the wickethelped by David Boakes; Cliff and JeanSmith who run the bar; Sue Hemstalk whoorganises the Tea Roster; all those lovelyladies who prepare and serve the teas; theUmpires who stand and occasionally sufferthe abuse; the backroom boys and girls,rarely seen but always available and there inan instant if a problem should occur; andour band of supporters, wives, girlfriends,mums, dads and those villagers who comealong to cheer, the envy of most clubs weplay against. To you all the Club offers itssincere thanks.Next season the Club will endeavour toimprove in all three league competitions toachieve its aim of being one of the best localvillage cricket clubs both on and off thefield.Dick CrouchHon. Secretary

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15

AS MENTIONED on page 9 of the Summer issue of this magazine, the recentlyformed Millennium Committee met last July when discussions were held onhow the village should celebrate the new millennium. Bearing in mind that there

are varying opinions as to when the millennium actually starts – 1st January 2000 or1st January 2001 – the Committee decided that they should co-ordinate what are nowbuilding up to be monthly celebratory events put on by particular village organisations.The following is a provisional list of eventsthat have so far been suggested:

December 31st 1999/January 1st 2000

A community event in the Village Hall –details to be considered

The year 2000

January Pembury Players Pantomime

February Youth Disco

April Art and Craft Exhibition atPembury School

May Open Day and Fete, LarkfieldHall

June Kent College FestivalChurch Pageant

July Carnival/Village Fete/Eveningevents

September Music Festival

October Village Organisations Exhibition – Pembury Parish Council

December Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving

The Committee was also informed that the Pembury Parish Council are investigatingwhether a commemorative mug could be given to children in Pembury.

It was also agreed that the Parish Council’s other contributions would be the creationof a Parish Map, details of which are included in a separate articles on page 11, andalso the production of a professional video capturing not only some of the celebratoryevents but to place on record the life and lives of Pembury and its people at that time.

The list of events has not been closed – the Millennium Committee would like toextend a request to any other village organisations who would like to make acontribution to these events to contact the Editor in the first instance so that yoursuggestions can be placed before the Millennium Committee for their attention.

MILLENNIUM CELEBRATIONS

PEMBURY IN THE PAST

CAN YOU HELP?

16

THE articles published under “Pembury in the Past” have created a few letters to theEditor, which is very pleasing.

The fire at Pembury Hall is one instance, in fact it has brought more complete details of theevents which took place on the evening of 2nd June 1947, which are reproduced on theopposite page.

This information was kindly given by a Mr Roger Lewis, who is at present researching thehistory of the Fire Brigade in Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas. He has asked theEditorial Committee if he could request through these columns for anyone who hasknowledge, or even old photographs of the Pembury, Tunbridge Wells or Goudhurst FireBrigades to contact him c/o the Tunbridge Wells Fire Station, Grove Hill Road, TunbridgeWells, Kent TN1 1SD – Tel: 01892 523461.

Another letter was from Mr Raymond Burgess who was born in the village in the latetwenties. He has given the Editorial Committee details of his life in the village which it ishoped can be recounted in a later issue. Also that of his grandfather William Burgess wholived in the Amhurst Almhouses in the l930’s and was well known in the village; he actedfor many years as organ blower at St Peters Church. Mr Burgess is also anxious to gatherany possible memories or information about his uncle – Albert William Prall – killed, aged19, in the First World War, he would have been 100 years old this year. He would welcomeany information about where he lived and worked in Pembury (1914/15) and possibly withwhom he enlisted at Tonbridge.

THE 1987 HURRICANEMOST of us have memories of this great natural phenomenon and the widespread damageit created. The Editorial Committee are hoping to present articles on how this affectedPembury and we are asking you, our readers, to let us know of your stories and how yourwere affected. To whetyour appetite we areprinting one pictureshowing the bizarreand frighteningdamage caused by thefelling of so many treesduring that terriblenight.Can I ask you tocontact the Editor torecount your stories –we would be verypleased to be given theopportunity ofreproducing any ofyour photographs thatyou still have so thatthey can be sharedwith our other readers.

17

PEMBURY HALL FIREUnder the heading ‘TRAPPED WOMAN RESCUED FROM BLAZING KENTMANSION’ the Kent and Sussex Courier of 6th June 1947 told the story of a largefire of 2nd June when Pembury Hall, historic Kentish mansion and seat of theWoodgate family for 300 years, was badly damaged by fire.

The fire, which started in the late afternoon in an upstairs room of one of the wings,was discovered by Celia Hendrika Duvenhage, nursery maid of Mr and MrsT. Hewitson of South Africa House, who were staying at the Hall. Firemen fromTunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Matfield were quickly on the scene.

Mr Stanley Penn, Mr A. Fenner, Headmaster of Pembury School, and Mr P. Langley,were among the first on the scene. While they and a score of villagers helped with thesalvage work, firemen were feverishly laying hose from the Reservoir, three quarters ofa mile away. Because the National Fire Service, as it was known at that time, had torun their hoses all this way over fields to the Reservoir it took some time to get a fullsupply of water. Once the supply was full, the firemen had the blaze under control inan hour.

The roof, top floor and one ground floor room of the house were gutted. The rest hadbeen damaged by heat, smoke and water. Police guarded the ruins throughout thenight and firemen were still on duty at 10 o’clock the following morning.

The Hall, regarded as one of the historic mansions of Kent, has been the seat of theWoodgates for 300 years. The family has been to the fore in the county since the 12thcentury. In Tunbridge Wells, their name is associated with the erection of Holy TrinityChurch and is represented among the trustees of King Charles Church. Many quaintlyinscribed monuments in churches between Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks recordtheir virtues and charities.

WHO CAN REMEMBER?WHEN I was first old enough to enter apublic house I used to go to the RoyalOak on numerous occasions. One of thecharacters who stood out was GeorgeNeal, who was gardener or janitor atKent College. George used to live in theNorth Lodge at the far end of theCollege premises, beyond the OldChurch.

He only had one arm and yet there werenot many things he could not do. Heused to roll his own cigarettes with onehand, using a small bamboo matting typething to roll them. It also took a veryclever man to beat him at bar billiards or

darts and he always kept his cards closeto his chest when it came to seven cardbrag. George used to walk all the wayfrom the College to the Oak, no matterwhat the weather, and on the nights thatI walked down the road with him I usedto leave him at the Grove and watch himshuffle off into the darkness, back downRowley Hill and on to the College.

Unfortunately I do not know whathappened to George when he left NorthLodge.

Any ideas?

Hughie Boorman

18

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EVEN if you didn’t manage to find your bike,hidden behind the gardening tools, this

summer – it’s not too late! Hopefully we have alittle more reasonable weather to put our bikes touse and travel through the delightful countryside.

You may have noticed new blue cycle signswhich have been erected across Pembury withthe number 18 on them. This is part of aregional route set up by the National CycleNetwork. Route 18 starts in the market town ofTenterden and finishes at the Pantiles inTunbridge Wells. The route totals 32 miles.

Alternatively why not try something a little lessstrenuous using some of the route to MarlePlace. Work the route backwards from Woodsidealong Romford Road passing the centre strip anddown the steep hill (watch the corner at thebottom). At the end follow the route but cut offa corner by staying on Crittenden Road toMatfield crossroads. Go straight over towardsBrenchley following route 18 into Petteridge

Lane. Left at the Hopbine and follow the signsuntil you reach Marle Place.

Here, there are beautiful gardens which will bespectacular now the Autumn colours are comingout. Wildlife is encouraged and they havekingfishers, owls and kestrels as well as greatcrested newts. If you have the time and energyyou could enjoy a walk in the woodlands. Self-service refreshments are available – why not takea picnic? Entrance price is £3 adults and £2.50children – but you might like to check this.

On your route back, if Romford Road hill is toodaunting when you return to Matfield go left.Follow the main road and turn right at KingsToll Farm.

The trip is approximately 9 miles, but allowextra time for hills. Don’t forget to take a drinkwith you. I wish you, happy, safe cycling.

Julia Croft

THE Pembury Society has continued to beactive in the broad range of matters which effectthe quality of life in our village. Keeping aweather eye on the ebb and flow of planningapplications for building and development isjust one of the reasons for our existence and oflate the Committee of the Society has beenspending a considerable amount of timediscussing the proposed development project fora supermarket, park and ride and communitycentre at Woodsgate Corner. There can be noargument that such a development would havea great and lasting effect upon the village yetthere seems to be a noticeable lack ofcommitment or passion to produce audibleopinions either for or against it.

It is self-evident that the project would create anincrease in traffic through the village and thatthere would be an inevitable closure of more ofour local shops. The other side of the coin isthat for the past few years we have notdeliberately given trade to our village shops,which has resulted in the closure of many ofthem, and we can couple this with thepreviously stated desire by a majority of thepeople of Pembury to have a supermarketwithin the village. We conclude from discussionswith our members that there is a fifty-fifty split

for and against the building of such a store.

When it comes to the park and ride part of thecomposite proposal, this is a different matterentirely because we have yet to hear a cogentargument that this will in any way present abenefit to Pembury. As a Society, we are awarethat ‘no village is an island’ and that it isincumbent upon us, as a near neighbour, to beunderstanding of the potential problem ofstrangulation by traffic of Tunbridge Wells.However, we take the view that there are moreways than one of skinning a cat and that aproposition to dump several hundred cars on adaily basis within our Parish might not be thebest or even the most logical solution to ourneighbour’s problem.

Then, we turn to the area of land which, at thistime, has been notionally allocated for use as acommunity centre. Such a centre represents aprime need for our village because we are soshort of the facilities that it would offer;nevertheless we should face the fact that if theland is to be purchased and the building builtwe must be prepared to dig deep into ourpockets. This means everyone, because if thepresent level of complacency persists and all isleft to others then the village will achieve verylittle. Continued overleaf

THE PEMBURY SOCIETY

CYCLING AROUND PEMBURY

THE OLD COACH ROADHAVE you ever wondered how legends are

made? The stories one hears about theold coach road that runs from next to theUpper Church (built 1847) to Dundale Roadare fascinating but can soon be shown to benothing but the figment of someone’s vividimagination.First, let us look at the facts. In 1799 themuch impoverished Bayhall Estate came on tothe market following the death of the lastresident owner in 1791. This was bought byLord Camden who had already acquired theBayham Estate which stretched as far as theDundale Road to the north. Lord Camdenclearly had expansionist plans. Unfortunately,because of financial problems, quite a lot ofthe Bayhall estate had been sold off during theprevious 50 years or so and so Lord Camdenhad to bide his time. Patience paid off and in1811 he was able to buy 69 acres of farmlandin the middle of the area between theHastings Road and Dundale Road.This meant that he now had a clear runthrough from Dundale to Pembury HighStreet, except for two fields immediately tothe north of his new purchase. Somehow hepersuaded the owner that he needed a stripfrom along the boundary of these two fieldsfor ‘drainage purposes’ and so the jigsaw wascomplete. The estate map drawn up at thetime of this sale is deposited at the archivesoffice in Maidstone. Another map in theMaidstone collection dated 1815 covers alarger area and shows the coach road cuttingright across the middle. It is therefore obviousthat the road was built sometime between 1811and 1815. In 1832 the remaining two farms inthe area came on the market and LordCamden bought them both, thus completing

his plans to acquire all the land in Pemburysouth of the Hastings Road.The coach road was built as just that. Despiteits turnpike status, the public road fromPembury to Lamberhurst (the modern A21)was probably in very poor condition, as LordCamden decided to build himself a privatedrive to allow easier access to his estatesfurther south.So when and where did the legends aboutmediaeval monks using the road on theirjourneys to Pembury arise? At one time theadministration of the Church in Pembury wasunder the jurisdiction of the monks but a quicklook at the map shows that their best routefrom Bayham would probably be along thehighway as far as Kippings Cross and thensomehow via Romford to the Church. The roadsystem in that area has changed a lot in the last600 years but one of the modern footpaths maywell have had a greater status then.The current discussions about opening thepath up for public access are also not new.In 1898 there was great consternation in thevillage when the then Lord Camden decidedto keep the gate shut. Obviously the road hadalways been used by those who worked on theestate and this seems to have led to the beliefthat it was a public right of way. A specialmeeting of the newly formed Parish Councilwas held to hear representations from villagerson the matter. Unfortunately the outcome oftheir discussions is not known.Perhaps there are other legends about thingsthat are reputed to have happened inPembury that can be explained by a littlebrowsing in the Archives Office at Maidstone.K. Franklin

20

THE PEMBURY SOCIETY – continued from page 19 –On a less serious note, did you visit The Pembury Society tent at the Village Fayre? We had agreat day and judged the event to be a big success, netting-in new members and enjoying theopportunity to join in the pleasures of this village get-together. At the end of June we entered afloral display for inclusion in the Old Church Flower Festival and the result of the efforts of somany of our community was that the Church looked really beautiful. Regarding blooms insummer, we have planted a bed of roses at the rear of St. Peter’s Church in memory of BarbaraMay who was a stalwart of The Pembury Society for many years. It is good to remember her inthis way because she worked hard for the village.For the future, we have the Annual General Meeting of the Society on Monday 27th October1997 at the Village Hall and details of this and our most excellent speakers will be given tomembers in the Society’s Autumn Newsletter which will be delivered in late September.Derek Johnson

21

EVER since the June issue of the ParishMagazine, you mums, grans and girlfriendshave started to disclose more of yourcooking secrets. This first one, sent in byLinda Goodwin, will be ideal for the last ofthe summer barbecues.BEAN SALAD2 tins of cut green beans (approx 400g,

drained)1 tin of kidney beans (approx 400g,

drained)3 sticks of celery, chopped1 medium onion, chopped1 green pepper, chopped 100ml (4 fl oz.) vinegar110ml (4 fl oz.) oil175g (6oz) sugarSalt and pepper.METHOD – Prepare salad the day before.Mix ingredients and leave in the fridgeuntil required. (Note – the quantities givenabove make enough salad for 8 to 10 peopleand is an excellent accompaniment tobarbecued food.)

The second, sent in by Betty Roberts:

FRESH LEMON GATEAU(contains uncooked eggs)

4 oz unsalted butter6oz castor sugar4 medium eggs2 large or 3 small lemons1 packet trifle spongesCream butter and sugar together.Gradually add 4 egg yolks and beat well.Add juice of lemons. Whisk egg whites,fold in grated lemon rind. Mix all welltogether. Split trifle sponges down middleand put layer in bottom of souffle dish.Put layer of egg mixture on top.Add further layers finishing with layer ofsponge.Cover dish with film and leave inrefrigerator overnight. Decorate with

whipped cream andcrystalised lemonslices or as desired

The next recipe isideal for Sunday teaand was sent byMrs Ellen Earnshaw.

AUSTRIANCHEESE CAKES4 ozs. self-raising flour2 ozs. grated cheese3 ozs. butter, pepper, paprika1 small egg yolk

Rub butter into the flour well. Add cheeseand seasoning, a little paprika and 1 eggyolk to bind to a firm paste. Roll out 1/2�thick and cut into rounds. Brush withbeaten egg and sprinkle with cheese. Bakein moderate oven till pale golden colour.

Well done ladies and thank you. Pleasekeep the recipes coming, bearing in mindthe next issue will be in time for Christmas.We would also welcome ideas forChristmas decorations, using naturalingredients, ie fir cones, sprigs etc.

Hughie Boorman

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23

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH PROBLEMS IN PEMBURY

COMMUNITY WORKING GROUP

TWO of the largest Neighbourhood Watchschemes in the village have problems thatcould have repercussions for the residents!

The Ridgeway scheme ceased to exist in Julywith the resignation of the Co-ordinatorMrs Pauline Franks. Pauline had beeninvolved with the scheme since its foundationin May 1986. In the recent past the level ofsupport shown for Pauline’s considerableefforts on behalf of her neighbours hasdiminished to the point where she could notcontinue to run the scheme. With myassistance she appealed to all members of thescheme for help and support but receivedalmost no response to her letters.

In view of this she very reluctantly resigned.

I would like to place on record my thanks toPauline. She has been a model co-ordinator,always keeping in touch with the police andpassing on items of concern to them and herneighbours. She always made sure that hermembers were made aware of informationpassed to her from the police, on a regularbasis. She also ensured that new arrivals to theRidgeway scheme area were given informationboth in relation to NHW and other villageactivities and services. She performednumerous other services on behalf of herneighbours, far beyond the normal duties of ascheme co-ordinator.

The second problem area is Herons Way,including The Meadow, Middlefield and TheGill.

A resident of nearby Snipes Close, Mr HarryDon, volunteered to try to get the scheme upand running. There had been no

Neighbourhood Watch activity in the area forwell over a year since the previous co-ordinatormoved from the area. Harry had 170 letters,prepared by the police, delivered around thearea, asking for help to run the scheme andsaying that if there was an appropriateresponse a public meeting would be held.A meeting was in fact arranged for 12th Juneat the Free Church Hall and 170 invitationcards were delivered under Harry’ssupervision. ONLY SlX RESIDENTSATTENDED. Needless to say both Harry andPC Chris Janes, the Police Liaison Officer,were very disappointed at the level of interestshown.

As things stand at the moment Harry is goingto restrict Neighbourhood Watch activities inthe area to Snipes Close and Stonecourt Lane,where he has had a positive response. It maybe possible, if sometime in the future there isrenewed interest in Neighbourhood Watch inthe rest of that area, to try again.

One of the consequences of the demise ofthese schemes is that people living in these twoareas no longer receive up-to-date informationon local crime and other matters from thepolice. Enquiring insurance companies wouldalso have to be informed that there was nolonger an active Neighbourhood Watch schemein these areas. This could, of course, affectresidents entitlement to discount on householdcontents insurance.

Should anyone from the two areas, readingthis, like to consider helping to regenerate theschemes, they might like to contact PC ChrisJanes on 01892 501159. He would be pleasedto offer every assistance.

WELL, our thoughts of a ‘drop in’ for theyoung people in the village seem doomed tofailure. Despite the publicity for the idea in thePembury column of the Courier we’ve heardnothing about possible premises or helpers.Surely somebody has some ideas.We’d also like to see more NeighbourhoodWatch Schemes in operation. Whilst wecontinue to press for a higher police presencein the village we realise that this is only aremote possibility and more and moreresponsibility rests on our own shoulders.

Many of you will have heard of the recent cropof burglaries in the village. Perhaps if we’d hadNeighbourhood Watch Schemes covering allthe areas affected at least some of the incidentsmight have been observed and perhapsprevented.It doesn’t take a lot of time to be a co-ordinator or link man (or woman). So howabout it. Let’s see if we can get the wholevillage covered.Betty Roberts

DOYOU LIVE IN ANYOF THESE AREAS?

• WOODHILL PARK• HASTINGS ROAD

• MAIDSTONE ROAD• LOWER GREEN ROAD

• ROMFORD ROAD• THE COPPICE

• RIDGEWAY• WESTWAY

• HERONS WAY• CHURCH ROAD

• THE GROVE• THE MEADOW

• GIMBLE WAY

We have recently been successful in selling properties inthese areas and consequently have many disappointed

keen buyers for a home like yours.If you live in any of these localities and would like us to

help match a buyer to your home, please call the PemburyOffice on 825355 and speak to Carol, Rosalind or Pauline.

General Accident Property Services

24

25

YOUR CLERK REPORTS

VANDALISM

The last few months has seen several changes in the staff employed by the Parish Council.The Senior Groundsman, Roy Andrews, retired in May after six years service to the ParishCouncil. He was replaced by Tony Climpson, who had served for three years as Roy’sAssistant Groundsman.Tony’s replacement is a Pembury man, Jamie Littlechild, whose family has lived in Pemburyfor many years.With the appointment of the Assistant Parish Clerk, Paul Russell, to Southborough TownClerk, he was replaced by Richard Parsons at the end of May. Again, the Parish Councilwere pleased to be able to appoint a Pembury man. Richard has lived in Pembury for 20years and was previously employed by the Civil Service.The final appointment was Robin Glazier as Recreation Ground Warden, again from an“old” Pembury family.We wish Roy Andrews and Paul Russell well in their respective retirement and newemployment and welcome Jamie Littlechild, Richard Parsons and Robin Glazier to theirnew jobs.Finally, a reminder that the hard tennis court is available for hire on a monthly, twomonthly and annual basis at a cost of £9, £13 and £36 respectively. Allotment plots arealso available for rent at a cost of £15 per annum for a full plot and £7.50 per annum for ahalf plot. Please contact the Clerk to the Council, Pembury 823193 for further information.Barbara Russell

THIS Summer has seen the normalbuffoon-like behaviour from the

moronic few whose only means of gettingattraction is to break or smash or violatepeople’s property. The Recreation Groundbus shelter has again been damaged, alongwith a telephone kiosk and the village sign,to name but a few items.The good news is that more people arecoming forward with the names of thepersons responsible and full marks to theparishioner who identified the person whodamaged the sign and the phone box. Atthe Magistrates Court on l5th August lastthe offender was ordered to pay £50 to theParish Council towards the cost of thedamage.The Parish Council also decided to re-erectone of the old disused bus shelters in thelower end of the Recreation Ground as ameeting place for the older teenagers. OnSunday 3rd August one of these youths forwhom this building was intended was seenand identified by three parishionersattempting to damage it. I suppose it tells

us all something about his level of mentalitybut next time, without doubt, the policewill be involved. Do not be intimidated bythem, keep the information going to thepolice and together we will show them thatthis behaviour is not going to be acceptedin Pembury.Again, there was the incident of the rubbishbins in the Recreation Ground detailed bySarah Clarke in her Comment on Page 2 ofthis Magazine.The allotments have also been the target offurther attacks. Holders’ crops and flowershave been flattened or ripped up and againit needs vigilance on behalf of theneighbouring home owners and someingenuity on behalf of the allotment holdersto bring these senseless acts to an end.I also feel certain that if we coulddramatically increase the strength of theNeighbourhood Watch people would feelmore confident in tackling some of theseproblems.Hughie Boorman

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OCTOBER2 Pembury Afternoon WI: Christmas Crackers – Village Hall – 2.15pm3 Pembury Evening WI: The Thames and Medway Sailing Barges – Village Hall –

7.45pm4 Hospice in the Weald: Country Fayre – Pippins Farm – 11am-5pm4 Pembury Footpath Walkers: Stonecourt Lane – 2.15pm10 St Peter’s Upper Church – Harvest Supper12 St Peter’s Upper Church and Lower Church – Harvest Thanksgiving Service13 Parish Council Meeting – Village Hall – 8pm13 St Peter’s Photographic Club – Upper Church Room – 8pm14 Darby and Joan Club: Sale of Work – Village Hall – 2pm16 Parish Quiz – Village Hall – 8pm18 BT Voices for Hospices: Handel’s Messiah – Tel: 01892 54487718 Pembury Bowls Club: Race Night – Village Hall – 7pm25/26 St Peter’s Pageant – Upper Church – 7.30pm27 St Peter’s Photographic Club – Upper Church Room – 8pm27 Pembury Society: AGM – Village Hall – 8pm

NOVEMBER1 Pembury Footpath Walkers – Camden Car Park – 2.15pm1 RNLI: Autumn Fair – Catholic Hall – 10am3 Parish Council Meeting – Village Hall – 8pm6 Pembury Afternoon WI: AGM – Village Hall – 2.15pm7 Pembury Evening WI: AGM – Village Hall – 7.45pm10 St Peter’s Photographic Club – Upper Church Meeting Room – 8pm11 Darby and Joan Club – Village Hall – 2pm15 Concert by the Sackville Singers – St Peter’s Old Church – 7.30pm15 St Peter’s Autumn Fair – Upper Church – morning15 PSA Adult Disco – Pembury Primary School – 8pm17 Pembury Footpath Walkers: AGM – Village Hall – 8pm22 Pembury Bowls Club: Christmas Fair – Village Hall – 10am22 Pembury Bowls Club: AGM – Village Hall – 7.30pm24 Parish Council Meeting – Village Hall – 8pm24 St Peter’s Photographic Club – Upper Church Meeting Room – 8pm25 Darby and Joan Club – Village Hall – 2pm28 PSA Christmas Fair – Pembury Primary School – 6.30pm29 Christmas Bazaar – Catholic Hall – 2pm

DECEMBER4 Pembury Afternoon WI: Christmas Party – Village Hall – 2.15pm5 Pembury Evening WI: St Luke’s Handbell Ringers – Village Hall – 7.45pm6 Pembury Footpath Walkers – Stonecourt Lane – 2.15pm8 St Peter’s Photographic Club – Upper Church Meeting Room – 8pm9 Darby and Joan Club: Christmas Party – Village Hall – 2pm15 Parish Council Meeting – Village Hall – 8pm

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29

CHURCH TIMESST. PETER’S CHURCHSERVICES

Upper Church8.00am Holy Communion9.45am The Parish Eucharist

and Junior Church10.00am Holy Communion

(Wednesdays)

Old Church11.30am Matins (exceptfirst Sunday, HolyCommunion)

Evening services as advertisedon Church noticeboards

CATHOLIC CHAPELOF ST. ANSELM –PEMBURY

Sunday Mass 10.30amHoly Days – Vigil Mass

7.30pmConfessions:

Sunday 10.15am

Weekday Services:Monday – Communion

Service 7.30amTuesday – Communion

Service 7.30am

PEMBURY FREECHURCH

We praise God and hear hisword on Sunday at 10amand 6.30pm.We have many activitiesduring the week for mums,toddlers, young people andsenior citizens. Ring thechurch office 825590 fordetails.Our Pastoral Care Assistant isavailable for personal/privateprayer on Monday morningsfrom 9.45am; if you have aneed or have prayer requestsplease ring her on 723216.

County CouncilMr Terry Cload, 56 Herons Way. Tel: 823966

Borough CouncilMrs Sylvia Abbott, 18 Lower Green Road. Tel: 824031Mr Bruce Ballantine, 6 Maidstone Road. Tel: 822156Mr David Mills, 125 Ridgeway. Tel: 825577

Parish CouncilMr Ron Abbott, 18 Lower Green Road. Tel: 824031 Chairman, Highways CommitteeMr Hugh Boorman, 52 Henwood Green Road. Tel: 823068 Chairman, Planning Committee

Chairman, Amenities CommitteeMrs Sarah Clarke, Little Stanton, Romford Road. Tel: 823932 Chairman of Parish CouncilMr Terry Cload, 56 Herons Way. Tel: 823966 Chairman, Finance CommitteeMr David Coleman, 22 Ridgeway. Tel: 823402 Vice Chairman of Parish CouncilMiss Julia Croft, 156 Henwood Green Road. Tel: 822074Mr Dick Crouch, 17 Highfield Close. Tel: 823164Mr Derek Goodwin, 27 Greenleas. Tel: 823822Mr Kit Kelly, 22 Hastings RoadMrs Gillian Matthews, 2 Gimble Way. Tel: 822057Mr Henry Plant, 16 The Coppice. Tel: 823459 Chairman, Public Relations CommitteeMrs Betty Roberts, 16 Woodhill Park. Tel: 824914 Chairman, Burial & Allotments CommitteeMr Bob Wilkes, 6 Belfield Road. Tel: 823264 Chairman, Environmental Committee

Clerk to the Pembury Parish CouncilMrs Barbara Russell, 6 The Grove. Tel: 823193

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Highly Commended by the National Association of Estate Agents

16 High Street, Pembury Tel: 01892 822880The Heath, Horsmonden Tel: 01892 724000

4 High Street, Tunbridge Wells Tel: 01892 527733Fax: 01892 521999

and PRESTIGE AND COUNTRY HOMES atMarket Heath, Brenchley Tel: 01892 723922

Your INDEPENDENT Estate Agency for Personal, Experienced and Friendly service.

FREE VALUATIONS – COMPETITIVE RATES – GOOD LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

RESIDENTIAL LETTINGSESTATE AGENTS

30

AGE CONCERNMrs Sandra Springett. Tel:. 522591

ALZHEIMERS DISEASE SOCIETYSimon Rooksby, Pineview Day HospitalPembury Hospital. Tel: 823535, Ext 3515

ASSOCIATION OF PEMBURY FOOTBALL CLUBSJim Smith, 18 Westway. Tel: 823714

BEAVERS, CUBS AND SCOUTSPeter Brookes, 8 Concorde Close, Paddock Wood.Tel: 833662

BOWLS CLUBSecretary: S. G. Roberts, 16 Woodhill Park. Tel: 824914

BROWNIES GUIDERMrs Jones, 14 Lower Green Road. Tel: 823747

BURMA STAR ASSOCIATIONSecretary: Mr R. G. G. Whitlock, 6 The Forstal.Tel: 822115

CAMDEN GREEN BADMINTON CLUBR. Holt, 50 Ridgeway. Tel: 823830

CATHOLIC CHURCHRev. Geoffrey Pointer, The Presbytery, 11 Alliance Way,Paddock Wood. Tel: 833699

COMMUNITY WORKING GROUPMrs B. Roberts. Tel: 824914

COMPAID TRUSTComputer Aid for Disabled People. Tel: 824060Transport for Special Needs. Tel: 823488

CONSERVATIVE PARTYTerry Cload, 56 Herons Way. Tel: 823966

CRICKET CLUBSecretary: Dick Crouch. Tel: 823164

DARBY & JOAN CLUBMr C. J. Eason, 183 Hastings Road. Tel: 824673

FRIENDS OF PEMBURY HOSPITALc/o Pembury Hospital. Tel: 823535

FRIENDS OF PEMBURY PARISH CHURCHChairman: Mrs S. Clarke, Little Stanton,Romford Road. Tel: 823932

GIRL GUIDERS1st Pembury Company: Mrs A. Baker,

67A High Street. Tel: 8244413rd Pembury Company: Mrs J. Lakeland,

7 Greenleas. Tel: 824916HOSPICE IN THE WEALD – PEMBURY LINK GROUP

Chris Cooper. Tel: 824805KENT COLLEGE

Headmistress: Miss Barbara Crompton. Tel: 822006KENTISH VALE ROUND TABLE

Mr Everden. Tel: 834685 or 832823 (business)LABOUR PARTY

Kevin Barden, 24 Beagles Wood Road. Tel: 824708LARKFIELD HALL

Principal: Mr M. F. M. Day, Cornford Lane. Tel: 822168LAWN TENNIS CLUB

Mrs S. Smith, 2 Ridgeway. Tel: 822405LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Sylvia Abbott, 18 Lower Green Road. Tel: 824031MUMS AND TINY TOTS CLUB

Mrs C. Price, 81 Ridgeway. Tel: 823349NATIONAL FEDERATION OF THE BLIND, UK

Michael Coggles. Tel: 822705OUTGROWN CHILDREN’S WEAR

Mrs S. Rice-Tucker. Tel: 822483PEMBURY ATHLETIC (Youth) FOOTBALL CLUB

Keith Mearing, 114 Beagleswood Road. Tel: 823232

PEMBURY BRIDGE CLUBGeoff Plummer. Tel: 824652

PEMBURY F.C. SATURDAYSteve Waterman, 35 Dimmock Close, PaddockWood. Tel. 835696

PEMBURY F.C. SUNDAYP. Craxton, 31 Batchelors. Tel: 823928

PEMBURY FOOTPATH WALKERSN. & K. Franklin, 11 The Meadow. Tel: 823212

PEMBURY FREE CHURCHPastor David Graham – Children/Youth Work – Church Office. Tel: 825590Pastoral Care Assistant – Di Priest 723216

PEMBURY FREE CHURCH PLAYGROUPMrs Wendy Parrett. Tel: 836945

PEMBURY FRIENDS OF SEVEN SPRINGSMrs Durant, 39 Lower Green Road. Tel: 822196

PEMBURY GARDENERSMike Pavely, 52 Maidstone Road. Tel: 822605

PEMBURY LADIES’ SOCIAL GROUPBarbara Scholten. Tel: 823445

PEMBURY PLAYERSChairman: J. Norman Draper. Tel: 823975

PEMBURY PRE-SCHOOL NURSERYMrs J. Brough, 2 Cornford Park. Tel: 824208

PEMBURY PRIMARY SCHOOLHeadmaster: Mr R. J. Edom. Tel: 822259

PEMBURY SCHOOL HOUSE NURSERYTeacher in charge: Mrs Hazel Thorne. Tel: 825580

PEMBURY SEQUENCE DANCE CLUBSecretary: Mrs E. Morris. Tel: 822267

PEMBURY SHORT MAT BOWLING CLUBMrs Celia Clifton, Secretary, 13 Cross Lane Gardens,Ticehurst. Tel: 01580 200237

PEMBURY SOCIETYDerek Johnson. Tel: 823150

PEMBURY STOOLBALL CLUBMrs Sandy Rice-Tucker. Tel: 822483

PEMBURY UPPER AND OLD CHURCHRev. Stephen Sealy. Tel: 824761

PEMBURY VILLAGE MARKETSue Boreham Tel: 824385Eve Fiddimore Tel: 518277

PRIMARY SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONA. Mason. Tel: 823052

ROYAL BRITISH LEGIONJ. Young, 13 Bulls Place.

ROYAL NATIONAL LIFEBOAT INSTITUTIONPeter Chartres, 54 Woodhill Park. Tel: 823759

SANDRA’S HOUSEPre-School Nursery, Mrs S. Toogood, Queens Folly,64 Lower Green Road. Tel: 824252

SCOUT AND GUIDE HQ MANAGEMENT TEAMPeter Brookes, 8 Concorde Close, Paddock Wood.Tel: 833662

ST. PETER’S PHOTOGRAPHIC CLUBEvents Secretary, Carol Brewer. Tel: 822030

TUNBRIDGE WELLS & DISTRICT VICTIM SUPPORTSCHEME. Tel: 513969

VENTURE SCOUTSBernie Roberts, 13 Camden Avenue. Tel: 822932

VILLAGE HALLManager (bookings): Denis Dawes, 29 Greenleas.Tel: 822411

WOMEN’S INSTITUTESAfternoon: Eileen Watson. Tel: 822607Evening: Mrs Gillian Williamson. Tel. 822577

WRVSMrs H. Swinden, 6 Church Road. Tel: 823378

YMCAAlan Goodwin. Tel: 542209

31

VILLAGE ORGANISATIONS

T. W. BOORMANFUNERAL SERVICES

31 Mount Ephraim, Royal Tunbridge WellsKent TN4 8AA

(opposite the Kent & Sussex Hospital)

Telephone (01892) 541070

“AT A TIME OF BEREAVEMENT, YOU WILL

NEED THE CARE, SENSITIVITY AND

PROFESSIONALISM FOR WHICH WE ARE

RENOWNED.

An Independent Caring Family Funeral Directors

24 Hour Service

No Charge For Last Respects In Our Chapels

HEADSTONES

AND

MEMORIALS

OWN

FLORISTRY

DEPARTMENT