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E L H A M N E W S L E T T E R JULY 2025 Date Event Time Location Contact Page Tuesday 1/8/15/22/29 July Elham Community Shed 10.00 - 12.00 The Shed, Elham Village Hall elhamshed@gmail.com 26 Wednesday 2 July Age UK Singing for All 11.30-12.30 Tayne Centre CT18 8JN See Poster 27 Wednesday 2 July Social Snacks and Cinema 19.00 for 19.30 Elham Village Hall Jan Stanyon 01303 840820 4 Thursday 3/10/17/24/31 July Elham Community Shed 10.00 - 12.00 The Shed, Elham Village Hall elhamshed@gmail.com 27 Monday 7/14/21/28 July Elham Community Shed 10.00 -12.00 The Shed, EVH elhamshed@gmail.com 27 FREE to you, paid for by Elham Village Hall What’s On, In and Around ELHAM Published by the Elham Village Hall Association, Charity No 1024757 Also available on the EVHA website, www.elhamvillagehall.co.uk. Events and News available to read on Facebook, Elham Village Hall, and on www.visitelham.co.uk. A Kent summer sunset for you to appreciate — sent by Julia Newman. The calm before the storm of Friday 13 June! Message

2 ELHAM VILLAGE HALL PERSONNEL (all are volunteers) President: Jan Stanyon Vice President: Liz Cox Treasurer: Sue Weller Secretary Miranda Weller Other Committee members: Maureen Alexander Trevor Bateman Renee Bull Jim Clements John Tebbs Jon Vince Registered Office: Elham Village Hall, High Street, Elham, CT4 6SX Editor and advertising; elhamnewsletter@gmail.com Renee Bull 01303 840295 Distribution organiser: Janet Pain 07710595891 Please email any newsletter copy to the editor by 9am on the 13thof the month prior to publishing or by hand into the Elham Village Hall bag at Elham Valley Stores. Whilst every care is taken in gathering and presenting the information by the volunteer who produces the Newsletter, errors can occur. No responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions nor consequential loss or liability. Opinions expressed in this Newsletter are not necessarily those of the Elham Village Hall Association. We do our best to produce an interesting, accurate and informative read. ELHAM VILLAGE HALL 01303 840128 ELHAM SPORTS CLUB 07714 415651 DOCTORS The Elham Surgery, Old Road 01303 840213 The Hawkinge Health Centre 01303 232300 74 Canterbury Road, Hawkinge HOSPITALS William Harvey, Ashford 01233 633331 Kent and Canterbury, Canterbury 01227 766877 Royal Victoria Hospital (walk-in) 01303 850202 PHARMACY 21 Station Road, Lyminge 01303 862425 Tesco Pharmacy (Junct 12 M20) 0345 6779273 SCHOOL Elham C of E Primary School 01303 840325 © Copyright Elham Village Hall Associaon 2025 Permission must be obtained for reproducon in any format. WHO’S WHO and WHAT’S WHERE MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT Sojan Joseph (Lab) sojan.joseph.mp@parliament.uk KENT COUNTY COUNCILLOR Christopher Hespe tba FOLKESTONE and HYTHE DISTRICT COUNCILLORS James Butcher (Green) james.butcher@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk David Godfrey (Con) 07584 304301 Stephen Scoffham (Green) stephen.scoffham@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk ELHAM PARISH COUNCIL VETERINARY Lord Whisky Low-Income Veterinary Clinic 01303 862622 Bourne Vets, Bekesbourne 01227 832322 Manor Vets, Folkestone 01303 273203 Hawkinge Vets, Hawkinge 01303 764190 ELHAM CHURCHES www.elhamvalleygroupofchurches.co.uk St Mary The Virgin, Church of England Rector: Rev. Carol Bates 0777 239 4855 Wardens tba Methodist Church, High Street Minister: Rev. Gill Songer 01303 240228 SAMARITANS (freefone) 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org LIBRARY Mobile Library is fortnightly in Elham outside the Rose and Crown - Fridays at 12.35 -13.05. HOW TO MAKE BACS PAYMENTS to ELHAM VILLAGE HALL? Elham Village Hall Association Ltd Sort Code: 09- 01- 52 Account No. 13698706 Elham Village Hall Association website: www.elhamvillagehall.co.uk elham.co.uk www.elhamvillagehall.co.uk. Chair – Kevin Lamb 01303 840215 Vice Chair – Christeen Chapman 01303 840224 Brian Swan 01303 840006 Kevin Allen 01303 862087 Stuart Peall 07956110887 Geoff Clements 01303 840255 Chris Francis 01303 840502 Clerk - 07702268475 – cgreenwood@elhampc.co.uk

3 Date Event Time Locaon Contact Page Tuesday 8 July Elham Valley Walkers 10,00 Peene Chris Jelly 07518 163183 30 Wednesday 9 July Age UK Singing for All 11.30-12.30 Methodist Church Lyminge See Poster 27 Tuesday 1/8/15/22/29 July Elham Community Shed 10.00 - 12.00 The Shed, Elham Village Hall elhamshed@gmail.com 26 Saturday 12 July Cantores Summer Prom 16.00 Lyminge Village Hall See Poster 27 Saturday 12 July Elham Cricket Club Quiz 19.00 for 19.30 Elham Cricket Pavilion See Poster 29 Saturday 12 July Sunflower memories Pilgrims Hospice n/a n/a See Poster 17 Wednesday 16 July Age UK Singing for All 11.30-12.30 Methodists Church Lyminge See Poster 27 Thursday 17 July Friendship Lunch 12.30 St Mary’s Church Hall See page 5 Friday Saturday Sunday 18/19/20 Lyminge Parish on Parade All day Jubilee Field Lyminge See Poster 16 Sunday 20 July Rhodes Minnis Cat Sanctuary Open Day 11.00-16.00 CT4 6XU 01303 862243 16 Wednesday 23 July EVHA Volunteers’ Day 10.00-15.00 Elham Village Hall See Poster 7 Saturday 26 July Elham Gardening Society Summer Show 14.00 Elham Village Hall See Website and poster 19/23 Sunday 27 July Elham Valley Walkers 10,00 Smeeth TN256SB Nikki Allen 07708 099149 30 Saturday 6 September ‘Village Life’ Film 17.30 Elham Village Hall See Poster 4/48 Friday 24 October EVHA Autumn Quiz 19.00 Elham Village Hall n/a Friday 31 October Halloween Disco and Parade n/a Elham Village Hall n/a What’s On, In and Around ELHAM Pages 2 / 3 Who’s who and what’s where / EVHA BACS details / Editor’s note / what’s on in Elham / Contents Pages 4 / 5 / 6 /7 Elham Village Hall Association News / Social Snacks and Cinema / 130 club / Volunteers Day Pages 8 / 9 / 10/11/ 44 Elham Parish Council Page 12 / 13 Elham Primary School / Twinning / Village Forum Page 14 District Council / Volunteer Award Pages 15 /16 Kent County Council / Lyminge Parish on Parade / Rhodes Minnis BBQ Page 17 Elham Historical Society / Age UK Page 18 Know Your Neighbour Pages 19 / 23 Elham Gardening Society Pages 20 / 21 / 22 Church pages / Wordsearch Page 24 Friends of St Mary’s Jazz on the Lawn Page 25 Elham Summer Food and Craft Festival Page 26 Elham Community Shed Pages 27 / 28 Cantores / AK Healthcare / Bee Wise Pages 29 / 30 Elham Cricket / Elham Walkers / Table tennis / Elham Sports Club Pages 31 - 47 Looking After You and Your Family’s Wellbeing / Looking After Your Home and Your Garden / Elham Services Page 48 Village Life Contents Welcome to the Elham Newsletter - July 2025 There certainly seemed to be a lot going on in Elham last month… take a look at the pictures in this edition! July brings yet more village activities– have a good look at ‘What’s On’ and make a note in your calendar of anything that takes your fancy. Next month, August, there is no Elham Newsletter - this is the month we collect payments from our advertisers that enable the Elham Newsletter to exist and we are extremely grateful for our advertisers’ continuing support, as well as the monthly effort made by our team of volunteer distributors. If you have photographs that you would like to share, please do send them to elhamnewsletter@gmail.com, or indeed any item of interest or concern. This is your community’s newsletter- it is only as good as YOU make it! Renee Bull Editor

4 Elham Village Hall Association News The perfect venue for every occasion ELHAM VILLAGE HALL Situated in the beautiful Elham Valley, our modern village hall offers convenient and flexible facilities. Ideal for small or large occasions, happy or sad, from business meetings to christenings, wakes, birthday parties and weddings. Approved by Kent County Council as a venue for the solemnisation of civil marriages and the formation of civil partnerships. Take a look at our website: www.elhamvillagehall.co.uk Contact Maggie Tappenden telephone 01303 862467 mobile 0774 6790 618 for further information. bookingsecretary.evh@gmail.com Social Snacks and Cinema Wednesday 2nd July. Come along To the Peggy Pike Room at ElHam Vil-lagE Hall and see whaT it’s all about! Come and meet some new people, socialise, HavE a drink and a naer. There will be refreshments available and a lOvely lm to see. EntRY is just £5.00 On the door and everyone is welcome. Under the terms of our licence we are unable to pub-lish the name of the Film; howEVer we hopE you can woRk it out, it’s quite easY! THere will be no SocIal Snacks and CiNema in August but we will resume aGain on the rst Wednesday in September. VILLAGE LIFE Saturday 6th September 7.30pm at Elham Village Hall BBQ and Bar open from 5.30pm Local resident Nigel Woodley’s film ‘Village Life’ will be screened in the main hall on Saturday 6th September. It was filmed last summer in and around Elham and features one or two Elham people. This will be a free entry event but we will have a pay bar and BBQ from 5.30pm so you won’t get thirsty or hungry! The film is suitable for everyone and it is hoped that many of you will come along. See the poster on the back cover and please put a reminder in your diary as there is no August newsletter to prompt you!

5 VE80 Spitfires I’m sure everyone has seen the VE80 spitfires on the Elham sign- they created quite a stir and certain-ly helped promote our VE commemorations. The question of what to do with them has been discussed and several people have enquired about taking ownership. We have decided to auction them at the next Village Hall Autumn Quiz which will take place on Friday 24th October. However, if you would like to put in an early bid please email the newsletter editor elhamnewsletter@gmail.com and we will ensure your bid is part of the auction even if you are not attending. There are two spitfires, one facing left, the other right- see pics. All monies raised will go to the Royal British Legion. All things French at the Elham Friendship Lunch The June meeting of Elham Friendship Lunch Club took on a French flavour when Anne Leva spoke of the new Elham Am-bleteuse Twinning Association. She was joined by Church Walk resident Alex Siggers who remi-nisced about his 18 years living in France. After the usual lunch of home-made soups, cheese and cake, members re-laxed over tea and coffee while Anne spoke briefly of Elham’s first twinning link with the Vallee de la Course in northern France which ended some 10 years ago; then explained how the new twinning link with Ambleteuse came about and how we all hope it will devel-op. (You can read further details in the Twinning Update on page 13) Alex then spoke about his and his wife’s years in France, renovating a dilapidated house, getting to know and making friends with their neighbours, (avoiding talking about politics!) and generally making the most of their expat lives. Questions from members brought up additional topics and cleared up some misconceptions: French food may be delicious but not all French know how to cook well; the French can be more philosophical and the British more practical in their approach to problems. The next Friendship Lunch will take place on Thursday 17 July, hopefully returning to the newly renovated St Mary’s Hall. Anne Leva LOCAL NEWS

6 Elham Village Hall Association News Elham Village Hall 130 Club An invitation to join Elham Village Hall 130 Club The Elham Village Hall Association raises valuable funds every year for the running of Elham Village Hall. Money raised is used to maintain and improve the hall for the benefit of all users. During the past year we have distributed £780 in prizes and raised a similar amount for the hall. By joining the 130 Club you can help ensure Elham Village Hall remains open as a resource for all the residents in our community; as well as having a chance to win cash prizes every month! The Elham Village Hall 130 Club is a private lottery and is open to all residents from Elham and the surrounding area, their family and friends. As a private lottery you have to be invited to join, you will be allocated a number and your numbers are not transferable. You have to be 16 or over to join. Each month there is a draw for 50% of the income. This amount is divided between 3 lucky winners on the following basis: For example, if we have 130 numbers the income for that month will be £130. 50% will be used as the prize fund e.g., £65 split into three prizes assuming that there are 130 numbers. • The 1st prize will be £32 • The 2nd prize will be £20 • The third prize will be £13 You may buy more than one number per month. If at any time there is less than 130 numbers sold then the prize fund will be proportionally reduced. If there are more than 130 numbers sold then the prize fund will be proportionally increased. We would ask that you pay for 12 months in advance (£12 per number). The more people who buy a subscription – the higher the prize money! Interested? If so, please read the attached rules and complete the form with your details. You will then be allocated a membership number for every £1 subscribed. Elham Village Hall 130 Club Rules 1. The object of the Club is to raise funds for Elham Village Hall. 2. The Club will commence on a date to be advised by the Elham Village Hall Association (once sufficient numbers have been issued) 3. The Club will be run by the Elham Village Hall Association. A member of the Management Committee will administer the Club and allocate numbers 4. The Club is open to all residents of Elham and the surrounding area, their family and friends. 5. Members must be 16 or over. 6. Members must fill in an application form (attached). 7. The entry fee is £1 per month per number. At least 12 months’ entry fees are to be paid in advance. Payments should be paid by cheque made payable to Elham Village Hall Association 100 Club. You can also transfer the money on-line (account details on application form) 8. Members may have more than one number. 9. The draw will take place each month by the Chair of the Elham Village Management Committee. 10. Prize money will be sent to the winners and names will be posted in the Elham Newsletter. If the winnings are not claimed for 6 months, they will be placed into the Elham Village Hall Association funds. 11. The regular monthly prize fund will be 50% of the monthly Income. The first prize will always be equal to 25% of the total funds raised for that month; the second prize will be 15% and the third prize 10%. 50% of all money raised, from the Elham Village Hall 130 Club, will go towards the running costs of Elham Village Hall. 12. A register will be kept recording the name and address of each member, the number(s) allocated to them and the subscriptions received. 13. Unless otherwise advised, a member will be deemed to have left the Club if his or her renewal of subscription remains unpaid for a period of one month 130 CLUB Winners JUNE DRAW 1st Prize (£32) Number 54 Paul Wilkin 2nd Prize (£20) Number 69 Sam Martin 3rd Prize (£13) Number 121 Michael Stanford-Tuck please contact Martin Turner 01303 840804 /jgt867@aol.com

7 ELHAM VILLAGE HALL NEWS Applicaon Form (Applicants must be over 16 years old) Name: _________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Post Code: __________________ Telephone:________________________________________ Email: ________________________________________ Quanty of numbers required __________at £1 per month - minimum period of 12 months which equals £12 per number. Total Payment enclosed: £ ______________I have made an online payment Yes/No Signed: __________________________________________ Please ensure you ll in all your details above or we cannot allocate you a number in the Elham Village Hall 130 Club. By signing this form, you are declaring that you have received and accepted the rules of The Elham Village Hall 130 Club Please make your cheque payable to: Elham Village Hall Associaon 100 CLUB Please nd below account details if you would prefer to make an online payment: Account Name: Elham Village Hall Associaon 100 Club Sort Code: 30-93-34 Account Number: 52257560 Please use your NAME as a reference Please return this form, with your payment, to Marn Turner, Lile Ginny, Exted Hill, Elham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 6UD. You can also leave the form at Elham Village Stores (there is a box at the front of the shop). Please inform us of any changes to your details.

8 ELHAM PARISH COUNCIL Your Parish Council and their areas of responsibility Stuart Peall LOCAL NEWS Full minutes can be seen on the Parish Council website and on the notice board by the Rose and Crown bus stop. Editor Unratified Minutes of the Ordinary meeting of the Parish Council on 2nd June 2025 Those Present: Councillors: Cllr K Lamb (Chair) and C Chapman (Vice Chair) B Swan, G Clements, C Francis, the Clerk , County Councillor Hespe, District Councillor Godfrey and 1 member of the public. Apologies: K Allen and S Peall. To declare any disclosable pecuniary interests (DPI), other significant Interests (SI’s) or a vol-untary interest (VI) relating to items on the agenda. No Interests were declared. Declaration of the Vice Chair – following the election of Vice Chair, Minute 78.25, Cllr Chap-man signed the Acceptance of Office form. Public Contribution - No contributions. Minutes of meeting. The minutes of the Annual meeting of the Parish Council held on 12th May 2025 were approved with the exception of a spelling error in 78.25, the clerk will amend for the Chair of the Or-dinary meeting in July to signed as a true record. It was agreed to defer approval of minutes from the C&A Committee meeting until the next Or-dinary meeting of the Parish Council due to the Clerk being on leave and only just receiving notes of meeting. It was agreed to bring forward agenda item 117.25. District Councillor and County Councillors reports. Chairmans Report Following the recent use of the defibrillator, it was requested that an agenda item be included in a future meeting to discuss the potential installation of defibrillators in North Elham and Ot-tinge. Additionally, it was suggested that a map detailing defibrillator location be published in the newsletter and displayed on noticeboards for public awareness. The Clerk will action this accordingly. Committees The following Councillors were appointment to the below committees: Staffing Committee - Cllr Lamb, Cllr Swan and Cllr Chapman C&A Committee - Cllr Lamb, Cllr Chapman, Cllr Swan and Cllr Clements. Wellbeing Advisory Committee - it was discussed and agreed that the wellbeing commit-tee would become a working party. Cllr Chapman would be the Lead for the Work-ing Group. It was agreed that Cllr Allen would continue as the Highways representative. It was agreed the Cllr Francis would be the representative for the Environmental Working Group. Kevin Lamb Chair of PC 01303 840215 Christeen Chapman Deputy Chair of PC, Planning lead 07973765056 Geo Clements Tree warden 01303 840255 Brian Swan Member of PC 01303 840006 Kevin Allen Member of PC Highways lead 01303 862087 Chris Francis Member of PC 01303 840502 Member of PC 07956110887

9 LOCAL NEWS 1. Elham Village Hall, High Street, Elham CT4 6SX located outside the main entrance to the Village Hall – available 24 hours / 7 days a week. what3words /// bookshop. justifies. Jaundice 2. Elham Parish Council BT Box, High Street, Elham CT4 6TD located in the red BT telephone box - available 24 hours / 7 days a week. what3words ///commuting. tiptoes. lawn 3. Elham Primary School, Vicarage Lane Elham CT4 6TT located outside the main entrance to the Village Hall – available 24 hours / 7 days a week. what3words ///empty. drumbeat. stepping Locations of Defibrillators in Elham In an emergency, always call 999 The operator will guide you to the nearest defibrillator and provide you with the code needed to access the defibrillator.

10 LOCAL NEWS Outside Bodies The following Councillors were appointment as representative on outside bodies: KALC Shepway Area Committee - Cllr Clements. Folkestone and Hythe District Council Planning User Group - Cllr Chapman. Elham Community Trust – Clerk to email E.C.T to ascertain when their Annual meet-ing is to be held. Elham and Acrise Samaritan Fund – Cllr Clements. Elham Village Hall – Cllr Francis. Play for Elham – Cllr Swan. Assistant Flood Warden – Cllr Franics. Little Stour and Nailbourne River Group – Cllr Francis. Tree Warden – Cllr Clements Finance The Council reviewed the 2024-2025 Internal Auditor Report and agreed no actions. The Council reviewed and approved the unaudited accounts for 2024-2025. The Council reviewed and approved the effectiveness of the system of internal control, this was signed by the Chair and the Clerk at the time of the meeting and witnessed by all pre-sent. The Council approved the Annual Governance Statement for 2024-2025, Section 1 of the AGAR for the year ending 31st March 2024, this was signed by the Chair and the Clerk at the time of the meeting and witnessed by all present. The Council approved the Accounting Statements for 2024-2025, Section 2 of the Agar for year ending 31st March 2025. Signed prior to the meeting by the Clerk and signed by the Chair at the time of the meeting and witnessed by all those present. The Council approved the supporting Bank Reconciliation as of 31st March 2025, this was signed by the Chair and the Clerk at the time of the meeting and witnessed by all present. The Council approved the explanation of the significant variations from 2023-24 to this year 2024-25, this was signed by the Chair and the Clerk at the time of the meeting and wit-nessed by all present. The dates set for the period for the exercise of public rights (4th June 2024 – 15th July 2025) were agreed. The Accounts from May 2025 were a true record and were signed by the Chairman of the meeting. The Bank Reconciliation from May 2025 was a true record and was signed by the Chairman of the meeting. The virement of £654.44 from ringfenced VE Day to VE Day was agreed. This is to cover the expenditure for the VE Day 80 celebrations that took place within the Parish. The May invoices were agreed, and payments were approved. Please see appendix 2. Financial Regulations It was agreed that a working party would convene to review the 2025 model Financial Regula-tions. Any proposed amendments will be presented to the full council for consideration. Planning Applications received were noted and comments agreed: Planning Ap-plication Address Description Comments / Views 25/0931/FH Old Mount Farm, Mount Hill, Rhodes Minnis, Canterbury, Kent CT4 6YD Detached dwelling house following demoli-tion of redundant farm-house. No Objection. 25/0913/FH The Old barn, Grimsacre Farm, Canterbury Road, North Elham, El-ham, Canterbury, Kent, CT4 6NG Twin stable and tack room for the keeping of horses in association with the old barn. No Objection.

11 LOCAL NEWS Applications were received since the agenda was issued and comments agreed. Planning Applica-tion Address Description Comments / Views 25/0924/FH Annexe, The Old Vicar-age, Vicarage Lane, El-ham, CT4 6TT. Listed Building Consent for the in-sertion of 2no win-dows. No Objection. 25/0921/FH Cockpit Cottage, Cock Lane, Elham, Canter-bury, Kent CT4 6TL Change of use from resi-dential (class C3) to guest annex (class C1). No Objection. The following decisions were received from Folkestone and Hythe District Council: Planning Ap-plication Address Description Decision Received 25/0373/FH Vale View, High Street, Elham, CT4 6SX Construction of new single storey rear/side extension and two storey rear exten-sion. Approved with conditions. 25/0420/FH & 25/0444/FH River Cottage, Wing-more, Elham, Canter-bury, Kent CT4 6LT Demolition of the porch and flue at the rear of the building. Proposed ground and first floor ex-tension to the rear of the property with a hipped gable roof. Minor altera-tions to the existing land-scaping Approved with conditions. 25/0439/FH Stoneacre, Park Gate Hill, Elham, CT4 6NF Erection of replacement dwelling and detached garage with retaining wall and associated hardstand-ing Refused. 25/0557/FH Elham Manor, The Row, Elham CT4 6UL Listed building consent for replacement of wooden sash frames with replica accoya hardwood which will be painted. Approved with conditions. Churchwall Given the time elapsed since receiving the quotation for the works on the section of the church wall, and with the specification now confirmed following site meetings, it was agreed to write to the contractor to obtain a fixed price. The Parish Council cannot accommodate cost variances once the works are completed. Following the consideration recorded in Minute 90.25 (1), the draft response to a resident of one of the affected properties was approved and will be sent by the Clerk. Burial Ground - The memorial application for RPG 359 was reviewed and agreed. The Gore - The Clerk gave an update on the planning conditions application (24/0540/FH/CON), it was agreed to remove condition 6 (disposal of foul water) from the current applica-tion to allow a decision for conditions 5 (external lighting), 8 (biodiversity) & 10 (soft land-scaping) of planning permission 23/0074/FH.

12 LOCAL NEWS ELHAM CHURCH OF ENGLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL A New Headteacher We are very pleased to be able to announce that the Governors have appointed Mr Joe Magliocco as the new Headteacher of Elham Primary School. Mr Maglioc-co is currently Assistant Head of Ellington Infants School in Ramsgate. He has ex-perience across the full Primary School age range, is a Specialist in Early Years and has a particular interest in Maths. His strong Christian values are very evident, and he engaged and connected well with children, staff and governors alike during his visits to the school. We believe that he is the charismatic and visionary leader our school needs to take it into the coming years. We look forward to welcoming Mr Magliocco for the start of the new academic year in September. Staff Leaving At the end of this term, we will sadly be saying goodbye to Miss Waters and Miss Shepherd, who have been such valuable teachers in key stage 1 over many years, and to Mrs Short who has been at Elham for 25 years, for much of the time not only as the main teacher in year 6 but also as Assistant Head. Mrs Short has also been an exemplary Acting Headteacher over the last year. We will miss all three greatly. We thank them for all that they have contributed to our school and wish them well for the future. Class Restructure The Governors have taken this opportunity to review the structure of the school in order to be sure that we can weather the inevitable financial pressures in years to come. Most primary schools have either done this in the past year or so or are planning to in the coming year. As a result, from September we will have two classes in Key Stage 1 [Years R and 1, and Year 2] and two classes in Key Stage 2 [Years 3 and 4, and Years 5 and 6]. This new structure is one that we have seen before, and which has worked very well for the children on previous occasions. Critically the character and family atmosphere that makes Elham Primary School so unique has always continued, with the children receiving excellent teaching, and enjoying their learn-ing and play as much as ever. We are therefore confident that with these class changes, and with the appointment of Mr Magliocco, the school that we all know, and love will continue to go from strength to strength. Trevor Gasson Wellbeing Place of Welcome – This initiative has been temporarily paused until the autumn. The group will conduct further discussions regarding the location and how best to uti-lise volunteers before proceeding. Fundraising for MIND – The Wellbeing Group is in the planning stages of organising a fundraising event in support of MIND. Further updates will be shared as arrangements pro-gress. Environment Group - Further to the request for signage indicating the herb garden’s location, the Clerk will respond to the Environment Group with suggestions, including the potential reloca-tion of the noticeboard in King George V Park, which could display a layout of the area. Twinning - The agreement for retention of ringfenced funds for the twinning committee was signed by the Chair of the meeting and the Twinning Committee Chair, Anne Leva. Correspondence - The full schedule of correspondence is available within the minutes of the Ordinary Date of next meeting and Close The next meeting will be the Ordinary meeting of the Parish Council on Monday 7th July 2025 at 7.30pm. There being no further business the meeting closed at 9.26pm.

13 SCHOOL IS FORGING TWINNING LINKS Creating new links between Elham and Ambleteuse is progressing, slowly in some are-as, but the schools in Elham and Ambleteuse have embraced the idea with enthusiasm, as described below by Trevor and Jenny Gasson, representing the school’s group in our twinning association. “Elham school is progressing with its links with the school in Ambleteuse. Following initial email contact between Trevor Gasson, Co-Chair of Governors at Elham, and Serge Legreoux, an ex-headteacher in France who is supporting the process, a video call was arranged to include the Headteacher at Ambleteuse and the Acting Head at Elham. “The French contingent speak good English and the amicable meeting resulted in agreement to begin a letter exchange between the older pupils starting during the next academic year. “Both schools feel there is no need to rush the process, but that it will be a great adventure. M. Legreoux hopes to visit Elham with M. Totain, the Ambleteuse Headteacher, in September.” Anne Leva, chair of the Elham Twinning Association, reported at the last committee meeting that we are waiting for the French to give us names and contact details of people in Ambleteuse willing to rep-resent various interest groups, who could correspond with their counterpart in Elham. We have every-thing in place here. The groups so far are the school, the Gardening Society, the Historical Society, the Environment Group, the choir/music, the artists, the Petanque Club, and the Walking Group. Nothing much will happen in July and August, but we hope to bring progress news in September. Advance warning: new regulations are coming in for crossing the Channel for all with a non EU pass-port. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a travel authorisation due to come in at the end of 2026. Your ETIAS will cost £7 and will be valid for three years. Application will be online. All information is available on various official websites such as ETIAS.com AL Village Forum – a view expressed You may recall that article I wrote about concerns of the whole village? You did 'spike' it as you were concerned that it might upset several people. Actually I do fully understand and agree However it seems by now that in some ways I was correct After all the Estates Office has gone and a Londis will replace Abbots Fireside has shut and it appears that planning may be accepted to change (back) into cottages, thus damaging the insides and also outside towards our High Street. The only way that this restaurant & hotel would work and make prcfits must be to really upgrade with proper well-known chef. As ever the cafe is not visible for visitors due to cars parked in front; residents there are permitted, but really? ...... And then it looks likely that the shop will shut. Frankly I'm not really surprised as too many of our residents prefer to drive to Barham..... Further a real shame that the Residents Association was created - with a creation meeting attended by hundreds - but did later fall away. Of course, there is quite a lot of focus around the hall, which is good, except it is not visible to village visitors who look for somewhere to eat and find just one place. On Sunday I was told that the King's Arms dislikes the market as it blocks up their “car park" area. I'll be forwarding this one to our village council. All best JOHN COPSEY LOCAL NEWS and VILLAGE FORUM SURELY THE BEST WE CAN BE - a song written at the songwriting course at Elham Village Hall . When did our excitement for everything new fade to a wan world of woe? It is too big to hold in our head or is it we are just getting slow? We swim in a sea full of fury and fear with no where to turn to for aid Then why not start small, see what strings we can pull, by taking a new look at life? Chorus : Pri-or-i-ty...why can’t we see? Improving their life is improving our life Creating community, living in unity Sharing and giving not grabbing and holding Surely the best we can be. We cannot put right all that’s wrong in the world, but what we can do should be done If we just think it through there is masses to do, not take and to hoard just for us. Some have talents and skill waiting to share, we can all at least lend an ear. Don’t fear getting involved, show that you care, while taking a fresh look at life. Chorus: Pri-or-i-ty… why can’t we see? Living in unity, develop community Daring to share, risking to care Its better than taking, better than faking Being the best we can be. Pri-or-i-ty… why can’t we see? Get into our head before we are dead Building society should be our priority Why can’t we see how things can be? Getting involved can be fun... getting involved can be fun.

14 LOCAL NEWS District Councillor’s News for July 2025 Wood burners Wood burning stoves are an acknowledged source of particulate pollution. Re-search by University College London has compiled national data which shows that, within our district, Hythe has a particularly high concentration of wood burning stoves. This has disturbed some local residents. The council has now posted guidance on the Folkestone-Hythe web-site. If you are thinking of installing a wood burner, we hope you will find this useful. Recycling The next phase of the ‘raise the rate’ campaign will be focusing on paper and card. Amongst other things, residents will be offered the opportunity to purchase a second box at a reduced rate. I was also pleased to be one of the judges for the Great British Spring Clean poster competition for young people. The winning entry will be displayed shortly on two local refuse collection vehicles. Cliff Falls Work continues on repairing the cliff falls along Remembrance Road in Folkestone. Detailed plans are now being prepared following geological studies. Accessing the cliff face is not at all easy and some trees will have to be removed as they sway in high winds and their roots weaken the cliff face. Love Your Beach The warmer summer weather attracts large numbers of visitors to the beaches across the district. Coping with sudden increases in the amount of litter is a considerable challenge. As part of the ‘love your beach’ campaign there will be additional bins in hot spots, more crews, enhanced equipment and additional signage. You may also see two e bike electric vehicles being deployed to help with the reg-ular emptying of bins along the seaside promenade. As well as being environmentally friendly, the bikes can access places which can’t be reached by other vehicles. Lower Leas Park, Folkestone The play equipment in the award-winning Lower Leas Park is 24 years old and is now beyond repair. The park is hugely popular and much appreciated by residents from all over the district. Following a consultation which attracted over 1000 responses, it has been decided to refurbish the play area. This will cost an estimated £750,000, part of which will come from payments received from new hous-ing developments. Geopark Although it is not widely recognised, the chalk landscape of which we are part is internationally signifi-cant in terms of geology, ecology and cultural history. One way in which this is being celebrated is through display boards. The first two have just been erected – one at Farthing Corner and the other on the East Cliff in Folkestone. The East Cliff board focuses on the Mega Flood which separated Brit-ain from mainland Europe some 450,000 years ago. This story has unfolded recently by analysing the strata beneath the Straits of Dover when the Channel Tunnel was constructed. This event which made Britain an island has been fundamental in shaping our history and deserves to be celebrated much more widely. We have a great story to tell! Cllr Stephen Scoffham Volunteer Award In my capacity as Chair of Elham Village Hall Association, I nominated Renee Bull for an Excellence in Volunteering Award. The awards are sponsored by Folkestone and Hythe District Councils who aim to recognise voluntary contributions made by those who make a difference to their community through their effort and industry. As editor of our newsletter Renee spends many hours each month producing the Elham Newsletter - it is a solitary task, requiring much patience, creativity and, it has to be said, a lot of fiddling about to fit in all contributions. I believe the result, month after month, is an excellent publication on which many in our community rely. Renee has managed to grow the content of the newsletter over the last six years, securing advertisers, finding the most economical printers, and, by adding copy, appealing to different sections of our community. I think she was very worthy of this nomination and I was delighted when she was shortlisted in the ‘Individual Achievement’ category at a packed ceremony on 5th June. Typical of Renee she was reluctant to publicise this achievement but I managed to take a picture of her with her certificate. Well done Renee! Jan Stanyon

15 LOCAL NEWS Kent County Councillor Update Report, 9 June 2025 Following the County Council elections on 1 May 2025, I now have the great honour of representing the Elham Valley division on the County Council. It is a large area of some 20,000 people and 8,000 homes, with some of the loveliest countryside and villages in the South East. Firstly, may I offer my thanks to out-going County Councillor Susan Carey, who many readers will recognise as a hard-working champion of our beautiful area. Rest assured, I will endeavour at all times to preserve all that is best about the area, whilst seeking to ensure that any development is sensitive and fits with your neighbourhood plans. My priorities will always be Elham Valley, but I have also been given additional County-wide responsibilities, too. I am Deputy Cabinet Member for Finance and Cross-Cabinet Activity, and I will be Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee. The challenges for the new Reform UK administration in KCC are enormous. We have inherited a Council debt from the outgoing Conservative administration of more than £700 million, daily debt charges of £84,000 and there are significant ‘in-year’ savings to be made totalling tens of millions of pounds. But there is real determination to get the best for Kent’s residents and businesses, achieve value for money, and ‘do things differently’ if it makes sense financially and in terms of service deliv-ery. We have a number of proposals to make life a little better in Kent, and these will be announced over time, but we will of course prioritise the continued delivery of our statutory core services of Adult Social Care, Special Educational Needs, Highways and Education. Local Elections During the local elections in May 2025, which led to Reform UK taking control at County Hall, we pledged to address the potholes. I can say with confidence that we will be making a positive an-nouncement shortly. We pledged to address wasteful spending, and to that effect we have estab-lished a team to ensure that taxpayer funding is spent wisely and to make savings wherever we can. We pledged to help our communities – our first action was to cut Councillor allowances and re-direct the money saved into the Community Grants programme for the voluntary sector. We pledged to put Kent residents first – we have scrapped driving lessons for asylum seekers and are working to stop funding ‘English as a second language’ classes. Apart from inheriting a challenging budget, another ‘big issue’ on the horizon is local government review, with the prospect of the government potentially merging KCC and the district councils and dividing the County into three or four Unitary authorities. The new Leader of KCC, Linden Kemkaran, has stated that she is not convinced of the merits of splitting the County and has asked central gov-ernment for more time for Kent to come up with its plans. She is determined that any new structures should have the backing of the public and not be simply ‘done to Kent’. In forthcoming months, Kent County Council will outline its position on a number of matters that will be of interest to residents of Elham Valley, including on the proliferation of proposals for excessively large solar farms; achieving good community benefits on the back of housing developments; the opportunities that should be presented through increasing disposals of KCC owned properties, and the opportunities for procurement to benefit local small businesses rather than the large, multi-nationals. Small Member Grants Let me know if you have a project, event or group activity which you would like to be considered for a small grant from KCC. This is for voluntary organisations with a bank account; usually constituted. Recipients could be clubs, societies, voluntary groups, church groups and not-for-profit organisations. Usual size of a grant is £250 to £500. It could even fund small highways projects, such as lowering kerbs for wheelchairs or installing a new road sign. Should take 12 weeks maximum from you con-tacting me to us getting the money out of the door. Highways Improvement Plans KCC is encouraging Parish and Town Councils to produce Highways Improvement Plans. These plans will prioritise capital works in those areas. Those areas with plans are more likely to receive funding. Adult Social Care Prevention Framework A consultation has commenced on a new Framework, which was produced with partner organisa-tions. The aim is to ensure that older people can stay healthy and independent as long as possible. Comments are welcomed before 14 July 2025 on kent.gov.uk/preventionframework. ... /cont

16 LOCAL NEWS …/cont Kent County Councillor Update Report, 9 June 2025 Potential Port Delays The EU Entry/Exit System is likely to come in to force at the Port of Dover in October or November 2025. This new scheme will require travellers to have biometric data eg face scanning and fingerprints, taken at the Port of Dover be-fore French customs officials will allow travellers to cross the Channel. Although much of the information that will be required will be able to be uploaded from home electronically prior to departure, the Kent and Medway Resilience Forum fears that there may be significant delays at Dover, This may therefore necessitate Operation Brock being put in place, possibly for a lengthy peri-od, as the Roundhill Tunnels can not be allowed to hold stationary traffic. Some time in 2026, the EU will introduce a further requirement known as ETIAS, which is effectively a visa costing approx. £7, which will be required for each trip to the EU. Historic England Local Heritage Hub Historic England has launched the ‘Local Heritage Hub’, which includes pages for every county, dis-trict, city, major town and national park in England. It allows users to explore aerial photos, listed buildings, archive material, videos, podcasts and local stories; all in one place. The pages can be ac-cessed on historicengland.org.uk/local Carers During Carers Week (9-15 June 2025), KCC is highlighting the vital role of carers in Kent and high-lighting the support that is available to carers in East Kent. Visit ‘Support for Carers – Kent County Council’ online to find links to Carers Support East Kent / ‘Imago’ for young carers / Short breaks provided by ‘Crossroads’. Let’s Talk Kent KCC has a portal through which all major consultations will be posted to seek the public’s views and comments. The public can sign up to be a consultee. Currently, 60,000 people have signed up to ‘Let’s Talk Kent’, which now covers consultations on local schemes, county-wide budgetary pro-posals, priorities and savings proposals, public rights of way changes and highways matters. Christopher Hespe Kent County Council Member for Elham Valley

17 LOCAL NEWS Smile Please! I encountered this little fellow among the buttercups in our garden( in the middle of the afternoon) the other day. Peter Morgan Looking for something to watch on TV? If you happen to have Netflix- check out a documentary called The Quilters. It is an award-winning short documentary (only 33mins). It is extremely powerful! In fact, I would say it’s the most memorable programme I have watched in a long time. Do you have a recommendation you would like to share? Let us know. Jan Stanyon

18 Editor KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOUR Pippa Hope is known for her creativity, demonstrated by the posters she de-signs for a variety of Elham Groups. She agreed to feature as the neighbour we can get to know this month. 1. How long have you been part of the Elham Communi-ty? My grandparents lived in Boyke Lane and we visited them weekly, so that was my first link to Elham 60 years ago. My husband and I moved to Rhodes Minnis in Elham Parish in 1993. My children were born and they attended Elham Primary School. My home since 2014 has been in Park Lane, with Ed. 2. What do you consider your greatest achievement to date? I have three. Surviving 60 years I consider a great achievement. Given my antics in my youth, a long life was not always a given, I have dodged a few bullets! Raising two children (now wonderful young adults) is also one of my greatest achieve-ments. And finally (despite a sense of imposter syndrome) having a piece of my artwork in this year's Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Art. 3. When were you happiest? That has to be right now: living with Ed, my freedom to create art, the woodland, the beautiful natural environment and the supportive community in which I live. I feel blessed. 4. What did you want to be when you were growing up? I wanted to be a time-traveller. I think TV programmes back in the day may have fuelled this wish. 5. What keeps you awake at night? Not much. The darkest hour is just before dawn. That’s when a few demons creep in. 6. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Play nicely, be kind, it pays off in the long-run. 7. Which village event do you most look forward to? The Christmas Farmers’ Market, which seems to be a popular response to this question. Ed and I love running the hot chestnut stall with Kev and Angie Scott. We have done this for a good number of years and we love the feedback we get from the people in the mar-ket. 8. Tell us three activities that keep you busy? -our business selling wild flower seeds for bees and butterflies -seeing friends and family is really important -creating stuff 9. What one change in the village would improve your life? Honestly? I would move the football pitch and put back the cricket pitch. The cricket team were villagers and the sound of leather on willow was infinitely preferable to the yelled obscenities that carry on throughout the football season now. It certainly ruins my Saturdays and is the only thing that makes me think of moving. 10. Cat, dog or goldfish? Dog. I have had a dog since I was 4 and our Dilly dog is the most loyal and gorgeous companion you could wish for. 11. What is the worst job you have ever done? My mum used to pay me to pick the gooseberries in the garden. It was very thorny. I did it because it paid better than picking her blackcurrants. I was 6 or 7 - maybe that was when I realised that money isn’t everything. 12. Tell us a joke. How do you tell the difference between a bugler and a burglar? One of them has a bu-gle. And the other one is really upset that his bugle has been stolen 13. What would the people of Elham not know about you? In another life before children, I rode Italian motorbikes and have ridden round Brands Hatch, Snetterton and Cadwell Park race circuits. I’m not saying I won prizes, but I had all the gear! 14. Last thoughts, final word. Do not worry about what other people think… they will think it anyway. ‘There’s only one way of life and that’s your own’. - Levellers.

19 LOCAL NEWS We wanted rain - and appreciated it - but we didn't want the really cold wind which plagued us for a number of days. The speaker at the meeting on May 15 was CLIVE NUTTMAN who told us about the rescue of part of the bank bordering the old railway line between Elham and Lyminge. The weed tangled bank was cleared and allowed to re-seed naturally - just to see what turned up. After this it was managed so that the most suitable and attractive plants would flourish. Eventually it became part of an area of classes for hobbies and crafts. A very interesting and different talk. The next big event, of course is the Summer Show to be held July 26. Do make sure you collect a schedule and enter something, there are so many classes that there has to be one of special interest to someone! We have no regular meeting in July but there is a visit to Lou Dowle and Steve Edney's nursery. Meetings are held in the Peggy Pike room of the village hall on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7.30. All are welcome. Frances Horton - 840550

20 CHURCH PAGES Dear Friends,, The ‘Triple-A’ Event of the Ascension I write the day after Ascension Day, often the least-mentioned feast of the Christian church. The following thoughts, culled from an article by J.John, have concentrated my mind. Many things, from credit standards and security ratings to consumer goods, get labelled ‘Triple A’ or ‘AAA’, thus claiming to be of exceptional importance and value. For the Christian, Jesus’ ascension into heaven can be seen as an ‘AAA event’, something of the very highest worth. The return of Jesus into heaven in the Ascension is anticipated in the Gospels (for example, John 3:13, 6:62 and 20:17), and recorded in Luke 24:50-53 and Acts 1:9-11. Luke says the event occurred forty days after Easter, so Ascension is celebrated on a Thursday – 29th May this year. The Ascension is an AAA belief, with three ‘A’ words. First, a confirmation of Christ’s Achievement, marking the completion of everything Jesus had to do in his earthly ministry. On the cross Jesus cried out, ‘It is finished!’ but as he ascended into heaven, he could have repeated the words. The church began a week later, with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost – but Christ’s earthly work of saving us was complete. It was indeed ‘Mission accomplished!’ The Ascension con-firms that the price has been paid and there are now no ‘outstanding debts’; it remains a ‘visual aid’ for Chris-tians, past and present, that he has done his work. Second, the Ascension is important because it proclaims Christ’s Authority. It isn’t Jesus leaving, it’s Jesus leading. He’s not gone; he’s on the throne. Jesus always was King of the universe but now, in heaven and seated at the right hand of God the Father, he reigns as King. That’s a powerful antidote to much that can trouble us. Many of us are wounded; in our lives we can struggle with such things as illness, depression or weariness. Mentally, we can be troubled with difficulties or easily be overwhelmed by news that sees every-thing in terms of political, economic or military might. Yet the Ascension reminds us of the comforting truth that the ascended Jesus has a power above all earthly powers. He’s not out of sight, he’s overseeing. Finally, the Ascension is important because it is a celebration of our own Access to heaven through Christ. Many times in the New Testament, Christians are described as being ‘in Christ’. To put our faith in Christ is, in some extraordinary way, to be bonded with him. In heaven we have ‘a priceless inheritance – an inheritance that is kept in heaven for us, ….. beyond the reach of change and decay’ (1 Peter 1:4). That we have this ac-cess to heaven is the truth that changes all that we are. Jesus went up with scars, but reigns with majesty – our wounded healer is our reigning King. The Ascension comforts us that the ascended Jesus has a power above all earthly powers. One of my favourite songs says “the only scars in heaven are on the hands that hold you now”; trust Him to hold you now. Christ’s Achievement, Christ’s Authority, our Access to heaven – a great TripleA event to hold onto! Mike Chinneck Please visit our website for information about our churches, services & events www.elhamvalleygroupofchurches.co.uk Parochial Church Council ( PCC) Newly elected PCC meets on July 3rd at 7pm in St Mary’s. NB/. Items for A.O.B must be sent to the Secretary at least 48hrs before the meeting. 3rd July Prayer meeting @7.30pm Methodist church 5th July Prayer Breakfast @8am Churches Together in Elham meet on first Saturday in the month at the Methodist church for prayer and short reflection, followed by breakfast at 8.30am. Contact : David Whitethread (07961 053335) / 6th July 3rd Sunday after Trinity 08:00 Said Eucharist - 09.30 Sung Eucharist with Baptism Lectionary readings: Isaiah 66: 10-14, Psalm 66:1-8, Galatians 6.[1-6]7-16, Luke 10.1-11,16-20 cont... Coming Soon from September: The Rector’s Wonderings…….

21 CHURCH PAGES ,,,cont/ 13th July 4th Sunday after Trinity 09:30 Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Deut 30:9-14, Psalm 25:1-10, Colossians 1.1-14, Luke 10.25-37 20th July 5th Sunday after Trinity 09.30 Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Gen 18:1-10a, Psalm 15, Colossians 1.15-28, Luke 10.38-42 27th July 6th Sunday after Trinity 09:30 Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Gen 18:20-32, Psalm 138, Colossians 2.6-15[16-19], Luke 11.1-13 Every Tuesday at St. Mary’s… Traditional Morning Prayer at 8.30am in the Jesus Chapel. Download the free Church of England app or use the red book. A good way to begin the day. https://play.google. com/store/apps/details?id=com.aimermedia.dailyprayer&pli=1 Every Monday at the Methodist Hall … Coffee and cake, a warm welcome and friendship, 10.30am – 12pm EXPLORERS Fun church for children aged 7-11yrs, with games, snacks and activities meets at St Mary’s on Tuesday 15th July 3.30-4.30pm Churches Together in Elham Valley August 1st August Prayer meeting @7.30pm Methodist church 2nd August Prayer Breakfast at 8am, Methodist Church. Contact : David Whitethread (07961 053335) 3rd August 7th Sunday after Trinity 08:00 Said Eucharist 09.30 Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Eccles.1:2,12-14,2:18-23, Psalm 49:1-12, Col 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 10th August 8th Sunday after Trinity 09:30. Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings : Gen 15:1-6, Psalm 33:12-end, Heb 11:1-3, 8-16, Luke 12:32-40 17th August 9th Sunday after Trinity 09:30. Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Jer 23:23-29, Psalm 82, Heb 11:29-12:2, Luke 12:49-56 24th August 10th Sunday after Trinity 09:30. Sung Eucharist Lectionary readings: Isaiah 58:9b -end, Psalm 103:1-8, Heb 12:18-end, Luke 13:10-17 31st August 11th Sunday after Trinity 10:00 BENEFICE EUCHARIST @ St Peter’s Swingfield Lectionary readings: Sirach 10:12-18, Psalm 112, Heb 13:1-8,15-16, Luke 14:1, 7-14 Events for the September Notice sheet Please send to Margaret Keeble by 5th of each preceeding month. m.keeble@outlook.com

22 CHURCH PAGES Donations We would greatly appreciate your help to continue our work for God in the village of El-ham and surrounding areas. If you can, please consider making a donation. This is our QR code for St Mary’s Elham. To donate using this code, open up the camera on a mo-bile phone - point the camera at the QR code – follow the instructions. � The offertory plate will go round in the service, during one of the hymns. There is also the opportunity to donate by card using the PAYAZ machine by the North door. Safeguarding / ‘A Safe Church’: If you ever have any concerns, contact our Parish Safeguarding Officer: Susannah Pallot : susannahpallot@gmail.com Paper Copies of Notices Some copies are available on back table in church. Please take a copy to give to those unable to access the internet. Elham Methodist Church (all at 9.30am unless otherwise stated) Services for JULY 6th Local arrangement 13th 10.15am Valley United Service at Lyminge 20th Tom Lewis 27th United Service at Rhodes Minnis Services for AUGUST 3rd Rev Gill Songer (video) 10th Valley United Service (HC) Rev Gill Songer 17th Tim James 24th Valley United Service at Rhodes Minnis 31st Circuit Service at St Andrew’s (10.30am) Sophia (Sey) Lamyman was bapsed at St Mary’s on 1st June where her sister CJ welcomed her with a beauful prayer of thanksgiving.’ July Wordsearch The month of July was originally called Quintillis. The Roman Senate renamed it in honour of Julius Caesar, Can you find this and other Shakespearean plays in this wordsearch? As You Like It Julius Caesar The Merchant of Venice King John Titus and Andronicus Measure for Measure Twelfth Night The Winter’s Tale The Tempest Romeo and Juliet Macbeth King Lear Coriolanus

23 LOCAL NEWS

24 LOCAL NEWS Jazz and Strawberries on the Lawn Idyllic surroundings, glorious summer weather, superb music, strawberries and cream, a well-stocked bar and a capacity audience! Thank you so much to everybody who supported our main 2025 fundraiser, “Jazz and Strawberries on the Lawn” on Saturday 14 June. We are most grateful to Jean-Louis and Virginie Barrois for allowing us to use their lovely garden and to the Kings Arms who very generously supported the event and ran the bar. Thank you, too, to the wonderful Anything Goes Jazz Band and the Elham Bellringers who added to the occasion. The event will have contributed substantially to the Friends of St Mary’s Funds and will enable us to continue helping to maintain and enhance our historic Parish Church. TG The Rector’s Message July is the time our teachers and school staff - look forward to a well-earned rest – schools out for summer! We all need rest and God gave us the gift of Sabbath rest: regular time to stop, to pause, to have a break from the busyness, stress and grind of work. To enjoy and take satisfaction from the goodness and beauty around us, to be refreshed, to reflect and take care of ourselves, spending time with those who care for us. It is in our best interests to accept this God-given gift and not make ourselves too busy to receive it. Jesus said, “Come to me. Come away with me and you’ll recover your life. Walk with me…watch how I do it. Learn from the unforced rhythms of grace…Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11: 28-30 (The Message Bible)

25 LOCAL NEWS ELHAM SUMMER FOOD and CRAFT FESTIVAL Thank you to everyone who supported the Summer Food and Craft Festival on Sunday 8th June. We started with the beautiful church bells at 10.30am followed by a fantastic “witty ditty” from Pam Ferris who officially opened the event for us at 11 .00 am. We had over 40 vendors spread between the church and The Square and we would like to express our thanks to Rev Carole Bates for enabling us to utilise the church for all our craft stalls. The Chancel Café were offering refreshments in the church and The Kings Arms were in The Square with a BBQ and bar The Village Hub stall was busy highlighting what Elham has to offer with regard to various groups within our thriving community. The committee would like to thank all the volunteers, the bell ringers, car parking team, the raffle team and special thanks to Sally Greenwood and Pam Ferris for their continued support. We would also like to thank Roger for the use of his field for traders parking and Elham School for the use of their playing field. Thank you to The Square residents for their patience and to Colebrook Sturrock for printing all the posters. Our chosen charity for the raffle was the local Motor Neurone Disease Association and it was lovely that they came along on the day to support us as well. With a donation from EFM committee we have been able to give them £755.00. Thank you to everyone who donated to our raffle – The Sometimes Gallery, The Dog at Wingham, Big Jigs Toys, Essential Beauty and Holistic Mind Body and Soul (Hythe). Thank you also to some of the traders who donated items for our wonderful hampers. As a committee we are delighted to be part of this fantastic village event and whilst exhausting, we all agreed it was worth it. Debbie Francis

26 Spiires for VE80 ELHAM VILLAGE HALL NEWS SHED UPDATE AND OPENING TIMES After a busy spring and early summer, our El-ham Community Shed session leaders are tak-ing a well-earned rest and the Shed will be closed in August. However, if you just can’t stay away or have an urge to create or mend something, the Shed will be open on request – just email us on elhamshed@gmail.com or message us on Facebook. Saturday July 26th is Elham Gardening Society’s Annual Summer Show so no sessions will be run in the Shed but it will be open for anyone wanting to take a look around. Look out for Shed Team members in their bright pink polo shirts who can take you round and an-swer all your questions. The latest creation, thanks to Chris Burrows and mem-bers of the Elham Environment Group, and Shed mem-bers, was a collection of bat boxes to be fixed around the village to ensure safe spaces for our bat population. Sessions were also run by Pip Hope to make looms. The pictures show her preparation and participants. This is an on-going project and will be followed by lessons on how to use them. Watch this space. We are also planning a Power Tool Saturday, your chance to learn how to use certain tools. The date will be announced later. We are always looking for ideas of things to make (that is, you, and us!) to enhance Elham Village. It could be planters, or anything else that could be made in the Shed. Do please share your ideas with us. We also welcome the opportunity to show you how to mend things, a garden table, a suitcase, a bench… just contact us. Enjoy the summer, and we look for-ward to seeing you again in Septem-ber. ECS Team Timetable for July: Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10am to 12 noon but not Saturday 26th July as it is Elham Gardening Society Show.. Thursdays, 2pm to 4pm. The Shed will be closed for the month of August. Opening details in September’s Newsletter

27 LOCAL NEWS Adam and Katie, the osteopaths from AK Healthcare in Lyminge, are thrilled to welcome Foot Health Practitioner Jayne Garvey to the clinic. Jayne qualified as a foot health practitioner from the SMAE Institute. She is dedicated in providing personalised care for a range of foot problems, ensuring your feet are healthy, comfortable, and well-supported through every step of life. On Tuesday mornings Jayne will be offering nail cutting, management of cracked heels, fungal nails & infections, painful nails, and concerns related to diabetic foot health, verruca, corns and medical pedicures. To ask Jayne how she can help you and to make a booking with her, please contact her directly on 07832 797341 or email her at jayne@solelyfootcare.co.uk

28 BEE AWARE Roger Newman was called away from his weekend relaxation time at the Farmers’ Market because a swarm of bees had landed in a villager’s garden. He was quick to respond and relocated the swarm safely. Thank you Roger… we look forward to the availability of Valley Honey! Editor BEE WISE - Valley Bees News Up until the beginning of May things were very quiet in the api-ary – then suddenly with the improving weather and air temper-atures we suddenly got very busy. The Queen bees started lay-ing eggs, the worker bees started foraging and the scout bees started looking for new places to which to swarm. In total we have collected three swarms – two of which were in the village and a really massive swarm that has recently been collected from a local garden centre. These have now been re-located into National Beehives around Elham. Hopefully when they have all settled down and got themselves organised, we will be able to harvest some honey – as long as the bees will allow us to! Yellow Legged Hor-nets (Asian Hornets) are still causing prob-lems in South East Kent and there have been sightings in Bar-ham, Deal and Sea-brook. Where possible the hornets have been lo-cated and destroyed. Monthly meetings or-ganised by the Dover & District Beekeepers’ Association continue to be held monthly at the outdoor apiary in Ey-thorne. Anyone interested in taking up beekeeping is wel-come. Please contact me, Roger Newman, or Maggi Harrow-ell the Hon. Secretary on 01304 821208. A system is in place where, as a beginner, you can loan a National Beehive for a year to start your beekeeping life, no cost involved, and it can give you a proper taste of bee manage-ment on the site of your choice. Roger Newman Valley Bees – based in Elham http://www.valleybees.co.uk (At time of writing we have limited amounts of Elham Valley Honey available. Please email via the website.) The picture above is of a swarm of bees of which we were notified that had landed on a tree stump. A hive was placed next to them and after a little encouragement and time they all walked in!. LOCAL NEWS

29 News from Elham Valley Cricket Club NEW PLAYERS ARE VERY WELCOME – ANY age or standard. Practice night is on Friday Evenings 6.00 – 8.00, using the nets at the ground. We also welcome any spectators, there is ample parking available at the ground with tea and coffee available. Junior coaching and teams This season the club will again be running junior coaching sessions (ages 5 – 16) at the club on Friday evenings 5.30 – 7.30pm throughout the summer from end of April until August. We are also planning to run various age group teams depending upon numbers. LOCAL SPORT and ACTIVITIES Any adults or youngsters for Table Tennis? The table tennis sessions on Monday evenings in the Anna Clayton room have been going well - long may they continue. There is now a session from 6:15 to 7:15 for children, in school Year 5, 6, 7 or 8 ( adult accompanied ) in the Anna Clayton room. Please contact me if you intend to come at 6.15. The adult session continues on Monday nights at 7.15 Elham Village Hall, upstairs as usual. Equipment provided; we just need your enthusiasm. If you would like further details please contact Jim Clements 01303 840295 or ajcjim1904@gmail.com. Elham Valley Cricket Club Quiz on Saturday 12th July at the Cricket Pavilion, Holloway Field, Park Lane, Elham. CT4 6UU. 7PM FOR 7.30PM There is a fully licensed Bar and there will be a B-B-Q We ask that you do not bring your own drinks, as we have a bar . £3-00 per head, teams of 6. All proceeds go directly to EVCC email evccjuniors@gmail.com TO BOOK YOU TABLE

30 LOCAL SPORT and ACTIVITIES Elham Valley Walkers Summer Programme Please check https://elhamvalleywalkers.co.uk/our-next-walk/ prior to joining a walk, for any last minute changes, or phone the walk leader if you are unable to access the internet. Tuesday 8 July Meet 10am from Peene. To reach start point and car park, from A20, turn left immediately after the old railway bridge, up a short concrete track to parking at the top, (nearest postcode CT18 8AZ Elham Valley Line Trust Museum). The walk follows the Elham Valley Way north, departing to climb steeply uphill, then circling towards Folkestone and reaching a viewpoint above the White Horse of Kent. Returning via a steep grass descent we rejoin the Elham Valley Way at the foot of the downs. About 5 miles, challenging, walking poles and boots a must. Chris Jelly leads 07518163183 Sunday 27 July Meet at 10am Church road playing fields, Smeeth TN 25 6SB. A route of just over 5 miles from Smeeth, walking through a mix of country roads and woods to the Hatch deer park (no dogs allowed) at Mersham Le Hatch, then across fields to Brabourne Lees to return along back lanes and fields to Smeeth. Some challenging stiles. Leader is Nikki Allen, Tel 07708 099149

31 The Abbot’s Fireside is now closed. Freehold property for sale. All enquiries please email info@theabbotsfireside.com LOOKING AFTER YOU and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING ST MARY’S CHURCH HALL For parties, for the smaller function and for Meetings £12.00 for Mornings and Afternoons £15.00for Evenings and Saturdays Use of Kitchen included Bookings: Mrs Pat Holmes 01303 840647

32 LOOKING AFTER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING Guided Safaris Self-Drive Adventures Tailor Made Holidays Contact Your Elham Safari Specialist www.yoursafari.co.uk kathryn@yoursafari.co.uk 01233 510269

33 LOOKING AFTER YOU and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING

34 LOOKING AFTER YOU , YOUR HOME and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING Clinics in Ashford, Dover, New Romney Home visits on request 07745 532075 Podiatry, Chiropody, Foot Health. Treang and managing foot and nail condions, corns, callus, insoles, ingrown nails, diabec foot care www.eastkenootcare.co.uk

35 LOOKING AFTER YOU and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING HOME VISITING OPTOMETRIST If you are over 60 years of age and no longer able to get out on your own, then you are eligible for a NHS sight test in your own home. Please call Elaine Edwards BSc (Hons) MCOptom 01303 840541 Sara’s Fruits Apple and Pear Juice - 1 Litre Bottles Frozen Fruits 500g Freezer Bags Raspberries Blueberries Littlegate House, Park Gate, Elham CT4 6NE Email sara@littlegatehouse.com 07980911589 FRESH BERRIES NOW ALSO FOR SALE Do you need a helping hand? Garden and Domesc Work House and Pet Sing Small Animal Care Then please ’phone Fiona Johnson 01303 840507 (working locally for 30 years)

36 LOOKING AFTER YOU and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING Hatha, Zen and Yin Yoga Mindfulness Meditaon Trauma Informed Yoga Pre and Post Natal Yoga 1:1 and group classes Gentle Evening Yoga, Wednesdays 7-8 PM Morning Yoga, Fridays 10-11 AM Currently at St Mary’s Church Hall, Elham serenityyoga20@gmail.com www.serenityyoga20.com @serenityyoga Book online via our website or give us a call for more information. AK Healthcare Garden Suite 4 Station Road, Lyminge Tel; 07904311554 / 07980897382 www.akhealthcare.org.uk Pilates, Skeletal alignment exercises and Stretch Tuesday Morning 08.30-09.25 and 9.30-10.25 Elham Village Hall CT4 6SX Thursday morning Pilates, Mobility exercises and Stretch 08.30- 09.25 and 09.30- 10.25 St Mary’s Hall CT4 6TQ janenemoat@gmail.com Osteopaths Adam and Kae are here to help you minimise your pain, opmise your mobility, and enhance your health and wellbeing. We believe that everyone deserves to live a life free from the limitaons of pain, and we're here to support you on your journey to a healthier, more acve lifestyle. Whether you are searching for help managing a chronic condion such as arthris or circulatory problems, or you have a painful frozen shoulder, back pain, sciaca or recent injury.....we are here to support you.

37 BARKING BEAUTIES 01303 840456 / 07866 463660 Unit 11, Barham Business Park Valley Road, Barham CT4 6DQ Fully qualied City and Guilds grooming: Bathing, drying, nail clipping. De-mang. Hand stripping and de-shedding. Fully qualied City and Guilds Master Diploma and K9 First Aid qualied. £16 for simple wash and blow dry. www.anityandbarkingbeaues.co.uk An independently owned veterinary surgery for all types of small animals. Separate waing, consultaon and recovery rooms for cats, small pets and dogs. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 08:00-19:00 Saturday 08:30-13:00 24hour emergency service Hawkinge Veterinary Surgery 9b Defiant Close Hawkinge CT18 7SU TEL: 01303 764190 www.hawkingevetsurgery.co.uk email hawkingevetsurgery@gmail.com Mus Appreciated Professional Dog Grooming Services Based in Newingreen Fully qualied and insured All breeds welcome Tel: 07927335947 Instagram: @musappreciated LOOKING AFTER YOU and YOUR FAMILY’S WELLBEING Elham Dog Training Club Elham Village Hall Kennel Club Accredited Instructor Kennel Club Good Cizen Dog Scheme Puppy Classes Talking Dog’s Rally For further informaon please call Sue Coulstock 07542727326 email: elhamdtc@gmail.com

38 R.B.W. KENT’S WATER FEATURE SPECIALISTS AND POND BUILDING EXPERTS Garden/Pond Design, Building and Refurbishments Pond Cleaning/Maintenance/Maintenance Contracts Child Safe Pond Covers Filtration Specialists Patios-Decking-Fencing-Brickwork-Arbours Tel. 07563 212858 FREE ESTIMATES and CONSULTATIONS www.reflectionbywater.com Email: andrewlongrbw@hotmail.com Established in 2001, award winning Hythe Garden Landscapes have been delivering the highest level of service to both domesc and commercial clients for a number of years. We are fully insured members of the Associaon for Professional Landscapers (APL) and encompass every aspect of gardening including: One-o garden jobs Garden maintenance packages Paos and driveways Composite decking Fencing Planng Tree surgery Turng Please take a look at our website www.hythegardenlandscapes.co.uk to see some of the projects that our professional, reliable team have completed, or call us on 01303 770610 LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN KJB Garden ServicesMowing Pruning WeedingHedge cuttingGeneral garden maintenanceOver 35 years experienceContact Kevin01303 862181Mobile 07704989402Email kbaldock06@gmail.com

39 LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN D.M.B. Plastering All aspects undertaken Interior, Exterior, Plastering, Rendering, Coving, Ceilings, Walls, Floors Finest quality assured, CSCS Certified 28 years experience Free estimates - Reliable service - Fully insured Call David on 07818 607209

40 Swanson Plumbing and Heating Local Elham Valley experienced plumber Reliable and on time From taps to bathrooms to complete heating systems 24hr emergency service Call 07971090018 / 01303 840177 Email FBS_LTD@Yahoo.co.uk LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN FINCHAM PLUMBING and HEATING We specialise in bathroom remodelling, including all tiling and pipework. Natural gas boiler servicing. Installation, Maintenance, Repairs and Replacement. All your plumbing requirements. Martin is a qualified Plumber Gas Engineer Gas Safe, CIPHE, WIAPS registered. Rosemary and Martin Fincham 07835 851 706 martinfincham@sky.com CAROL CREES CLEARANCES HOUSE CLEARANCE IN SOUTH EAST KENT Based in Folkestone Full/Part House Clearance Est. over 30 years –Fair Prices Paid Antique/Vintage/Retro/Modern Registered Rubbish Carrier Contact SIMON CULLEN 07745 421680 sijnzo@aol.com JACKSON PLUMBING Domestic plumbing and property maintenance No job too small Special Rates for O.A.P.s Free estimates Home/evening: 01303 270691 or daytime direct line to the proprietor 07773 089398 or 07864 929826 Email: jackson.mark20@gmail.com Luxury German Kitchens at Internet Prices Contemporary and traditional styles Family run local business with the most experienced design team in the area Built-in appliances from Neff, Bosch, Siemens and Miele Visit our showroom at: Units 8-10 Kingsmead, Park Farm Ind. Est. Folkestone CT19 5EU 01303 223322 info@tradexltd.co.uk www.tradexltd.co.uk

41 LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN ANDY MANNERING FLOORING SPECIALISING IN AMTICO AND KARNDEAN LUXURY VINYL TILES Also Safety Flooring, Rubber Flooring etc Commercial and Domestic Work Undertaken No Job Too Small Free Estimates and Advice Given Over 35 years experience Fully Insured Telephone: 0797 434 7248 or 01303 863095 info@andymanneringflooring.com Please visit my website for further information and to view my Feedback www.andymanneringflooring.com + Carpets Supplied and Fied + Carpets Professionally Cleaned + Carpets Whip Edged and Coon Bound Domesc and commercial carpet specialists If it’s to do with carpets … get in touch 07943 764442 Email: kingdom.carpet.co@gmail.com www.kingdomcarpetco.co.uk SARAH de ROUGEMONT UPHOLSTERY Established 1990 Loose Covers - Fabrics - Roman Blinds All commissions considered Tel: 01227 455841 Mob: 07973 377817 Need a Van? Then I’m your Man! For all light removals, furniture, domesc items including house clearances Avoid expensive deposits, pick-ups and drop-os Remove, dispose of or recycle all household items, including electrical appliances Based in Barham Reasonable and fair rates Free esmates and quotaons Call Chrisan on 07771 728080 Email chrisanmanandvan@gmail.com CEDAR HOME MAINTENANCE General Builders and Roofing Specialist Roofing.-.PVC.-.windows/doors.-.Kitchens/Bathrooms.-.Plastering.-.Electrical- Installations - Plumbing CALL NOW FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION All Work carried out by Qualified Tradesmen (Fully insured – all areas of Kent covered) Mobile: 07968197613 Office: 01303 230787 Email:cedarhm@hotmail.co.uk www.cedarhomemaintenance.co.uk Air Link Cars (You pack up, We pick up) Airport, Seaport and Long Distance Travel Specialist The family run business where service really counts. Estate cars and people carriers. Fixed price 24 hrs a day. No extras. Written confirmation of booking. Established 10 years. For the Easy Airport Link, Think Air Link!

42 LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN If you wish to advertise here, the cost is £53 per annum. Please contact elhamnewsletter@gmail.com

43 Bossingham Groundworks and Landscaping LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN Excavation Stables Site Clearance Fencing Demolition Drainage Brickwork Concreting Turfing Driveways and Patios Mob 07894 007660 RALPH ALLARD CHIMNEY SWEEP Brush and Vacuum All Chimneys, Boilers and Stoves Swept Woodburning Stoves and Fireplaces Fitted, Chimneys Lined Certificates Issued HETAS and NACS Registered, Fully Insured Member of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps Tel: 01303 844465 - Mob: 07813 716654

44 LOOKING AFTER YOUR HOME AND YOUR GARDEN HARMER and SON LTD Ground Maintenance Ltd Grounds maintenance, turng, fencing FREE ESTIMATES Tel: 01303 893414 or 07831394372 ELHAM VALLEY STORES We are looking for more volunteers to work, on an occasional basis, in the Village Store. Full training will be given. Please contact Martin Turner (01303 840804 or jgt867@aol.com) if you would be interested have any questions.

SERVICES FOR ELHAM Young’s Accountancy Services Accountancy, Audit, Book-keeping, Payroll and VAT Services. For all businesses, partnerships and sole traders. Free inial consultaon, exible hours. Contact details: Mob: 07704 518251 Tel: 01303 259734 contactyoungstoday@gmail.com Based in Etchinghill, I provide a personalised service with a one-o at fee of £180.00 to prepare and submit your Tax Return. No hidden costs. FMAAT Licensed Accountant, fully insured and HMRC authorised. Ring Anita on 07361 238744 or email aabookkeepingservicesaadams@gmail.com East Kent Mole Catcher No Mole – No Fee Your local mole catcher, based in Ash, covering all local towns and villages. Offering mole control for your lawns, gardens and paddocks. Public liability insurance. Call/Text – Keith, East Kent Mole Catcher 07876 686543 Email – molecatcherkeith@hotmail.com www.eastkentmolecatcher.co.uk 41

46 SERVICES FOR ELHAM

47 SERVICES FOR ELHAM

48 This award-winning film is to be shown in September. It is a FREE EVENT at Elham Village Hall, Saturday 6 September. BBQ available and Pay Bar from 17.30