Dear Friends,

Tidings of comfort and joy?

Looking at the newspapers and TV, it is hard to find much good news. Threat of war and terrorist attacks, floods and earthquakes, many countries in Africa on the verge of starvation, those in authority engulfed in scandal and sexual misdemeanors, drug and alcohol abuse, justice flouted the environment spoiled I could go on and on. People sometimes say to me 'Why doesnt God DO something? Are we Christians living in cloud cuckoo land when we talk about the good news, the good tidings of Christmas? Anyone who has taken a tiny baby out for a walk or shopping will know how complete strangers will stop and talk to them. Smiles seem to break out even from the grumpiest faces! Somehow little babies are a cause for joy all over the world. We may be able to turn out backs on starving adults ... but a child's eyes staring from our TV screens are hard to resist.

When God had just about exhausted all the ways. of communicating with his people, when prophetic words and actions went unheeded he came among us as a tiny baby, born. in the lowliest and most unpromising situation: to a young woman whose husband knew that he was not the father, in a borrowed room, in a land occupied by foreign troops and riven by religious fundamentalism and terrorism. Soon after the birth the new family had to flee for their lives and became refugees.

Even after 2000 years this story still has the power to touch us. It may sometimes seem obscured by tinsel, sentimentality and commercialism, but, like that simple young girl Mary and her loving husband, those outcast shepherds on the Bethlehem hillside, those wise men from distant lands we too can share in the good news that God has come among us. He knows first hand about our humanity. Jesus was born, lived and died just like you and me. But that was not the end of the story.. Christian hope is based on the fact that he has overcome death and is willing to share that everlasting new life with all creation.

Now that is good news that doesn't end on December 26

I wish you all a happy and holy Christmas.

Diana.

Church services are on a separate sheet this month.

DODDINGTON TEA TOWELS
There are still a small number of Tea Towels (showing Historical Buildings of Doddington) Available - Sale Price £l.00 each. Contact Mary Chastney on 886245.

WATCH FOUND
A watch was found in the woods on the right side as you enter Newnham. if you have recently lost a watch whilst out walking, please contact Miss Boucher on 886896.

JOB VACANCY - MANOR MUSHROOMS DODDINGTON
Part-time Sales and Delivery Driver required. Must be over 25 years. Job Share considered. Telephone 01795 886000 for further details.

FOR SALE Kenwood Fryer Compact - Two servings, used only three times. E20 Tel: 01795 886229.
Ladies 3/4Leather Coat -Medium £50. Portable Car Radio (Mtec) + speakers £ 50. Tel: 886112.

NEWNHAM VALLEY WI
The November meeting was opened by President, Mrs P Hawkins, who welcomed members and visitors. The new committee was in place, with the role of Secretary being shared between Mrs K Sharp (correspondence) and Mrs L Minshull (minutes). Forthcoming events were discussed. It was proposed that the members dinner be held in January. In February a 'Nearly New' Sale would be arranged. Mrs J Humphreys had offered to have a Pancake morning at her house on Shrove Tuesday, 4 th March. Mrs Hawkins reported on the Half Year Council meeting at Folkestone. Our speaker for the evening was Mrs Lambert, who told of the joys and perils during the 15 years she had been house and animal sitting. Flower of the month winner: Mrs J Cheesman. Next meeting: Thursday 12th December at 7.30pm in Newnham Village Hall. Speaker: Mr M Malcolm on 'Wine Tasting'. Competition: A Christmas Table Decoration.

DODDINGTON & DISTRICT WI - NOVEMBER MEETING
The President opened the meeting welcoming members and visitors. After the ordinary business the Annual Meeting proceeded and included the reading of the Financial Statement and the committees report. Mrs Martin then thanked members for their support throughout the year and told the membership of her decision to refire from the committee. She then announced the names of the new committee. This was followed by a ballot to elect a new president. This matter has yet to be resolved, but it is hope that this difficulty will be overcome at our meeting in January. Mrs Allibone thanked Mrs Martin for all her hard work over the past four years and presented her with a plant. The rest of the meeting was given over to a social half hour. The winner of the flower of the month competition was Mrs Joyce Glover, second was Mrs J Cheesman. The December meeting Will take place in the Village Hall on Thursday 12th December at 2.15pm. There will be a short talk given by Mrs Janet Bryant 'Christmas Tales'. This will be followed with carol singing, tea and mince pies. Visitors always welcome.

NOTICE TO READERS
It was noted by a reader that in last months Newsletter, two reports were not properly attributed. The two items in question were the 'Orange Mobile Phone Mast' and 'Cliffe Airport'. The former had been submitted by Doddington Parish Council as part of their monthly report and the latter by Ward Councillor Mr Colin Prescott. Unfortunately in an effort to conserve resources the articles were (a) moved from the link article and (b) condensed. It was also noted that the Newsletter only gave the information should you wish to object to both of the proposals and therefore did not give a balanced view to readers. It was not intended to create the impression that the views expressed were those of the Newsletter compilers. However, the Orange Mobile Phone Mast has been the subject of a public meeting in Doddington Village Hall, where any points from the public could be raised, this meeting was published in a previous issue of the Newsletter. Parishioners are reminded that there is a public forum during Parish Council monthly meetings when any opinions on matters of concern can be raised.

DODDINGTON PARISH COUNCIL
Report of meeting 11^th Nov 2002 by Alistair Clinton
All 7 Parish Councillors present, 4 members of the public & Cllr Prescott of Swale Borough Council

Playing Field :
Springs for the gates to make them self closing are due to be fitted.

Grants may be available to improve facilities in the Playing Field. Ideas are welcome for how to improve the Playing field. However, implementation is entirely subject to grant funding availability.

Moss is appearing on the safety tiles around play equipment and will be treated shortly with suitable weedkiller. Areas will be marked clearly for the short periods not useable during treatment. Parents please note and be extra vigilant with children.

Playing Field Clear Up Day: There is to be a clear up day for the Playing Field date to be advised. Volunteers willing to help please contact Cllr Woodhouse Tel: 886 251.

North Down:
The Parish Council will be contacting Swale Housing Association regarding progress of proposals for driveways on some of their properties to help alleviate parking. (Nothing has been heard since July).

Doddington Christmas Tree:
Cllr Cuthbert has generously donated a tree which will be placed in the orchard next to the Butchers by kind permission of Cllr Doughty.

Jubilee Allotments:
The Parish Council is finalising details of the allotments and thanked Richard Moyse and Kathy Friend for the hardwork they had put in to the scheme.

Precept:
The Precept has not been increased for the last 2 years. The Parish Council is reluctantly considering raising the precept due to increased costs imposed by legislation. The contingency fund is also to be reviewed after advice from The Kent Association of Parish Councils.

Freedom of Information Act
To comply with legislation the Doddington Parish Council Freedom of Information Act details can be viewed on the Doddington website www.Doddington-Kent.org.uk (see 'Parish Council' on the site)

Debris:
It has been noted that leafs and other debris have been swept into the road which are then carried down into drainage gullies causing blockages and increasing the risk of flooding.

Audit: The Parish Council books were audited without fault. The Parish Council thanked the Clerk for her hard work.

Traffic Calming: The Traffic Calming Group intends to hold a village survey on potential traffic calming measures.

Transport :It was pointed out that school buses were often overcrowded. The Parish Council would like to hear from people who have also found this to be the case on a regular basis.

Youth Issues: Youths climbing on the bottle bank was raised and the Parish Council will investigate possible re-siting of the bottle bank.

Summary of matters discussed at the Newnham Parish Council Meeting on Thursday 14th November 2002.
Present: ClIrs. Gunner, Dartnell, Ockenden, also present KCC C11r Jean Newman. Apologies were received from ClIrs.
Meakins, Llewellin and SBC C11r. Cohn Prescott. The Chairman welcomed Mr. Simon Forrest to his first meeting as a
new, co-opted Parish Councillor.

Matters arising from previous minutes

a) A letter had been received from KCC Passenger Transport Unit confirming the new timing for the 345 bus service that is used by school children in the Newnham area. Citibus will monitor the situation but C11r Ockenden expressed her concern that the company had not yet taken into account the probable rise in numbers of children in the coming years.

b) Traffic calming - a temporary SID (speed indication device) is being applied for and will be sited in The Street at the most suitable position for traffic flow. Newnham PC will monitor the situation at Selling as it may well assist in reaching a conclusion for Newnham's own traffic problems. As lighting is an integral part of Selling PC's proposed traffic calming measures, a decision has not yet been reached.

C) Under the Kent Highways small improvements programme for Traffic Calming and Lay-by Schemes the PC will put forward proposals for the maintenance of Sharsted Hill and the possible purchase of a permanent SID. During the Open Forum, C11r Newman offered her help in liaison with Highways on these matters.

Other Matters

1. As all councillors were not present, the discussion on the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2002 was put back until the next PC meeting.

2. Due to C11r Meakins absence, there was no report from the Village Hall Management Committee and concerns were voiced over certain matters such as the lack of a further committee meeting and regular winter quiz evenings. As C11r Meakins is extremely busy at present he would be approached with offers of help.

3. Treasurer's Report - the Internal Audit documents were produced and approved.

4. Report from the Clerk - a) consultation paper was received from the Kent Police authority regarding a rolling 3year safety strategy and spending plan. This will be duly completed and returned. b) Correspondence from KCC on funding for Public Rights of Way was passed to C11r Dartnell for her to action and she gratefully accepted the offer from Nicky Thorpe to assist her in walking the rights of way. c) Next meeting of the KAPC is on 02.12.02 when C11r Gunner will attend. d) Due to work and family comnititments the Clerk was obliged to hand in her letter of resignation, although she would continue until a replacement was available. The Clerk was thanked for her work within the Parish. e) Planning - removal of a silver birch tree at No.. 104 The Street was approved by SBC. No objections were made to an application for reconstruction of a delapidated outbuilding at No. 82 The Street.

Any Other Business

i) A proposal had been made earlier in the year by the owners of land within the village and ClIrs Gunner and Forrest will be meeting them shortly to continue the discussion regarding the possibility of a new village hall and other facilities.

ii) The new owner of land adjacent to Calico House confirmed that the hedge had now been trimmed and building work could start in Spring 2003 after the necessary clearing and preparation work.

iii) C11r Ockenden raised questions concerning the safety of the village during the possible emergency situation of the Fireman's strike. Information received from Fire Headquarters after the meeting indicated that, due to the type of staffing at Fire Stations in the area, Newnham would probably be under normal service.

iv) There is now only one outstanding position for parish councillor, for which a decision is currently awaited from an interested resident.

A date for the next meeting was unable to be confirmed that evening but will be publicised on the notice boards shortly.,

Vacancy for Parish Clerk at Newnham
Our present Clerk is having to give up this post due to increased work and family commitments
and Newnham Parish Councillors would like to take this opportunity to thank her for the work she
has carried out for the Parish and wish her well for the future. If anyone would like to take on this
interesting role or would like more information regarding the duties required, please ring 890627.

We had our first ground frost on the 19th (-0.5C) and a second ground frost on the 24th. Temperatures continued to fall, 23.6C on the 1st but since then between 12C and 16C during the day. ' (John Howell)

FIREWORK DISPLAY - DODDINGTON SCHOOL NOW 15th FEBRUARY 2003
Due to the bad weather conditions the Firework Display planned for Saturday 2' November had to be cancelled. However, this will now take place on Saturday 15 1h February to celebrate Valentines Day. So please put the date in your diaries. Gates open at 5.30pm, Bonfire lit 6.30pm with the display commencing at 7.00pm. Admission Adults £4.00 Children £1.50.

CHRISTMAS FAIR - SATURDAY 7th DECEMBER 10.00am - 2.00pm
At Norton Village Hall. In aid of Friends of St Mary Norton. Seasonal gifts, crafts, books, cakes and produce. Father Christmas. Refreshments available.

CLEMATIS RAILWAY - LEWSON STREET - SANTA SPECIAL
On Sunday 22 nd December at 1 Clematis Cottages, Lewson Street, Norton. The Santa Special at 2.00pm and Christmas Steam Up at 3.00pm.

CANTIANA -CHRISTMAS - MONDAY 23rd DECEMBER
A celebration of Christmas in words and music on "Monday 23RD December in Newnham Church 7.30pm Tickets £5.00 includes refreshments (proceeds to Charity) available from Doddington Service Station or by calling Lis Bayford on 886392.

Here we are at another end of another year, we have had some very enjoyable afternoons, with
plenty of laughs while playing scrabble, whist and crib. With the afternoons ending with a cup of
tea or coffee, raffle and bring 'n buy. The final meeting for 2002 will be on Friday 13"' December
in Doddington Village Hall at 2.00pm. We would welcome new members for 2003,
I would like to say.'Thanks' to Mary Chastney for all her help with preparing the tea and driving
collecting and taking home members. Also thanks to Ann, Mollie, Nan and Shelia who also help
with collecting members. A Merry Christmas to all our members,

NEWNHAM CHURCH FLOWER ROTA
7th December Mrs Dorothy Davies. 14th December Mrs S Forrest, 21st December Christmas, Decoratiing. 28th December Mrs Diana Davies. Brasses.- Mr & Mrs Smith.

DODDINGTON CHURCH CLEANING ROTA 7th December Mrs Pavne and Mrs Waters. 14th December Mrs Howell. 21st December Mr &-Mrs Glover.

NEWNHAM TODDLER GROUP
Parents, toddlers and babies welcome every Wednesday (term time) from 10.00am in Newnham
Village Hall. For play, activities, coffee and a chat, More info contact Mel Jordan 890152,

BUDDIES MOTHER & TODDLER GROUP
Buddies meet every Thursday afternoon (term time,) in Doddington School Hall from 1.30pm - 3,00pm. A
friendly group who are pleased to welcome children from 0-5 years with their carers for play, craft activities,
a chat and a cuppa. For more details contact Lis Bayford 886392.

DISCOVERY PRE-SCHOOL
Sessions on Monday and Friday mornings 9.30am -11.15am at Doddington Primary School. For further information contact JoanTuckey (Club Chairman) on 890688.

DODDINGTON YOUTH CLUB
In order for the club to comply with Insurance requirements, we have to declare a certain number of members at the outset of the club year (April), In recent weeks a number of children have attended the Club from Faversham and this therefore has put our attendance over our agreed level, When the club was started it was for children living in Doddington, Newnham & Wychling and not.surrounding areas. This does not include Faversham or Sittingbourne, both of which have excellent clubs'. We have therefore ask all members who wish to bring a guest to telephone Les prior to Friday nights in order that our numbers are not exceeded. Members are reminded that there will be no Youth Club meetings in December, Youth Club will recommence on Friday 11th January.

KERBSIDE COLLECTIONS
Tuesdays 3rd 17th and 31st December. For paper, cardboard, junkmail. magazines etc.
Please use carrier bags or boxes, place where clearly visible from the road, not obscured by
bushes, walls, railings, cars etc and away from domestic refuse.

I ST NEWNHAM BROWNIES
Newnham Brownies and Guides are thriving, we have 13 Guides and 22 Brownies.
We will all try to come to the Christingle Service at Doddington Church 10.30am on Sunday 1st
December. Faversham Division are holding a sponsored swim at the Faversham Pool 6.15-7.45pm on
Saturday30th November in aid of Asthma. All welcome The Brownies are presenting their Nativity Tableau
in Newnham Village hall on 10th December followed by carols, songs and activities and refreshments. All
welcome 5.30-7.00pm (end of term). Newnham church - carols around the Christmas tree (Brownies in
uniform please). New Year Service Sunday 5"' January in Faversham Parish Church, Happy Christmas to
you all.

Recipe of the Month
Rich Chocolate Orange Cake

4oz (100g) butter
4oz (100g) caster sugar
Grated zest of one orange
2 large eggs
3 1/2 oz(160g) self-raising flour
I rounded tablespoon cocoa
Juice of the orange
4 tablespoons rum (optional)

Chocolate Cream Topping

Quarter pint (150ml) double cream
4oz (100g) top quality dark cooking chocolate
eg Sainsburys Luxury or Menier - broken in squares

Grease and base line an 8,inch (20cm) sandwich tin. Pre-heat the oven to 1800C, 350* F, gas mark 4.

Cream together the butter, sugar and orange zest until fluffy then beat in the eggs one at a time. Sift the flour and cocoa together and fold in. Spoon the mixture into the tin and spread level. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack and leave to cool.

While the cake is cooling make the chocolate cream. Pour the cream into a small pan and bring gently almost to the boil. Add the chocolate and stir unit it is melted. Stand the pan in cold water to cool, beating the chocolate cream frequently until it begins to thicken.

Meanwhile set the cake on a plate and spoon the orange juice and rum, if used, evenly over the top allowing it to soak in. When the chocolate cream becomes spreadable, swirl it over the top and sides of the cake. Place in the fridge to set.

This lovely moist cake is very rich and best served chilled.

TRAILBLAZERS MEETINGS FOR DECEMBER/JANUARY

1st December - Doddington Church 10. 30 Christingle with Communion
8th December - Trailblazers in Doddington Village Hall 10.15
15tb December - Family Service in Doddington Village Hall 10.30.
22nd December - No Trailblazers.
24th December - Crib Service in Newnham Church 5.30.
29th December - No Trailblazers.
5th January - Family Holy Communion in Doddington Church 10.30.
12th January - Trailblazers in Doddington Village Hall 10. 15.

OVEN READY PHEASANTS FOR SALE £4 a Brace. Contact Robert Breakell on (01795) 886424.

DODDINGTON SCHOOL PARENT, TEACHER & FRIENDS ASSOC
Thanks to all those who attended the recent Wine & Wisdom in Doddington Village Hall, this raised a profit of just over £188. Special thanks to Lis at the Chequers and Sara Jones for the loan of glasses and Phil Filkins our question master. Our next fund raiser is our Christmas Quiz, costing £1. The prize is a Day Crossing on Eurotunnel for car and upto five passengers. These are available from the Chequers Pub, Doddington Service Station or Doddington School. The Garden Club have recently been awarded a Bronze certificate from the Kent Wildlife Garden Accreditation Scheme. We are still looking for volunteers to help with the Garden Club, which restarts in the Spring. The club operates on a Monday after school from 3.15 - 4.00 if you are interested in helping, please contact the school on 886298.

ADYERTISING SPACE
Currently one small space available. Contact Miss Boucher for information. Tel: 886896.

CLOSING DATE FOR JANUARY 2003 NEWSLETTER - ALL ITEMS 20 DECEMBER

SPECIAL THANKS
I would like to give a very special thank you to all the people of each of the Villages who have helped with the newsletter during 2002. Especially to Les and Barbara Roberts who have helped compile and type the Newsletter. Thanks to Mary Chastney and Janet Bell who in the early months of this year, helped staple, fold and deliver Newsletters. For each of the people who have delivered the newsletter throughout the villages and surrounding areas, hope they will continue

Another very special thanks to Mary Chastney for looking after me (and still is) since my illness in January and also to Janet Bell, Les and Barbara Roberts.

1 thank the residents in each village who have helped me in many ways over the last year. As most of you know the hardest thing for me is not to be able to do all the things 1 would like to do. 1 would like to wish you all a Very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year. From: Miss Joan Boucher.