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VILLAGE NEWSLETTER
April 2001

For
Doddington, Newnham & Wychling

From The Vicarage

Dear Friends

"Here's our Graham"

Last month we welcomed Graham Cray as our new Bishop of Maidstone. A family man, he is 44 years old and particularly interested in encouraging work among young people. After ordination in 1971 he went as curate to St Mark's in Gillingham. In 1975 he went up North to become Northern Coordinator in the Youth Department of the Church Pastoral Aid Society. In 1978 he moved to St Michael the Belfry York, a church made famous by David Watson. The church was due to be closed but then experienced a wonderful revival during David Watson's time as Vicar.

It continued to flourish under Graham. He left there in 1992 to become Principal of Ridley Hall Theological College in Cambridge. In terms of his churchmanship he is 'evangelical' in much the same way as Bishop Gavin Reed was. He too is a fine preacher and was honoured as one of the Six Preachers at Canterbury Cathedral in 1997. I beard him speak a couple of years ago at a Clergy conference at Wye, when he talked about contemporary society and how we can find ways of expressing the Christian faith today. I found his talk both interesting and challenging for I confess that I find many of the things that go on today very confusing.

This morning, for example, I watched part of a TV programme about surrogate mothers. One young woman was to be a 'host surrogate.' She said that what she was doing was merely acting as a 'baby sitter,' and did not expect to have any trouble in giving up the baby to the 'proper' parents. I turned the programme off then but the next guest was to be another surrogate mother who had not been willing or able to give up 'her' baby. I thought of Moses' mother hiding him in the bulrushes to protect him and then being asked by the Egyptian princess who found him to look after him and bring him up. He may have been confused, but at least he knew who his mother was and was loved by both her and the princess who had found him. I just hope that the same thing will happen to the children of surrogate mothers. We all know how difficult it can be for some people who have been adopted, or whose parents have split up and re-married. Some cope very well, but it is also true that many are hurt by the experience and often feel unable or unwilling to enter into any relationships which involve commitments. To do so makes them feel very vulnerable. They fear that they will be hurt and are not prepared to risk this happening again. Yet there is in every one of us an in-built need for close, caring relationships. We need to belong and to matter to someone. But many have to 'go it alone,' particularly in the towns and cities. It is hardly surprising that they sometimes express their resentment by delighting in seeing others being rejected.

Might this be one reason why such programmes as 'The Weakest Link,' and "Big Brother,' which glorify in 'rejecting' people are so popular?

Over the last few weeks we have been discussing Bishop Graham's views in his book, called "The Gospel and Tomorrow's Culture." This point about relationships seems to be crucial. Joining protest marches, going to Pop concerts and other events can give a sense of belonging but we have a wonderful opportunity in the Church to model what a truly caring, accepting relationship can be like when it is based on the love of God as shown in Jesus Christ.

May God Bless You All This Eastertide
Roy Kilford

From the Registers

Funerals
23rd February Fred Frazer at Newnham
3rd March David French at Norton

DODDINGTON CHURCH CLEANING ROTA.
14th April Mr & Mrs Glover 28th April Mrs Spilsbury.

DODDINGTON FLOWER ROTA.
My apologies for the delay in producing the rota this year. I had hoped to be able to add some new names, but no one seems very enthusiastic, so thank you for agreeing to stay on for another year. As a number of services now take place in the village hail and there is no service on the fourth Sunday in the month, I have decided to try the experiment of pairing you up for a month at a time and will try to indicate when there are no services in church so that although probably there should be some flowers at least on the altar, the memorial vase and in the squint at all times for visitors, they can be very low key.

Janet Howell and I have done January and February, there are no flowers in Lent and no service on Easter Sunday' at Doddington, so we will do to the end of April and start the rota in May. I hope this is fairly clear, if you have any problems with it or unable to do flowers at any time please contact me on 886 245

Please excuse my very inadequate computer skills, I hope to improve if I don't throw it in the dust bin first !!
Mary Chastney.

NEWNHAM CHURCH FLOWER AND CLEANING ROTA
NO FLOWERS. 7th.
7th April Mrs R. Llewellin    14th April EASTER decorating.
21st April Mrs D. Davies.    28th April Mrs C. Backett.

BRASSES. Mrs B. Mallion.

NEWNHAM ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING.
The Newnham Annual Supper and APCM will be held on Monday 23rd April at 7pm in the Village Hall. Everyone who lives in the Parish on Newnham are very welcome to attend but only those on the Church Electoral Roll are eligible to vote for representatives. If you would like to add your name to the Church Electoral Roll please ring Churchwarden, Charlie Clark on 690395 before 26th March. If you would like to come to the meeting please ring for catering purposes the PCC secretary, Auriol Moate on 890537.

DISCOVERY PRE- SCHOOL.
Six pre- school children have found out that although it is only a few short steps to the school, what happens there on a Monday and Friday morning is a great Discovery Following' a superb open day complete with balloons and a magician our sessions are now well under way. This term the children have been getting to know each other and learning about the changes Spring brings. There are still spaces available for children aged between 30 months and 5 years. Why not come along' and make the Discovery for yourselves.

DARBY & JOAN CLUB.
On the 9th of March we held our 39th Birthday party in Doddington Village Hall. We had a delightful lunch cooked and served by Mrs J. Webster, Mrs D. Waters, Mary Chastney and Ann Martin. Roast Lamb followed by Apple Crumble all, piping hot. We followed this with a 15 to One Quiz arranged by Mary Chastney. The first prize was won by Ann and Brian Martin followed by numerous other prizes. Next we sang Happy Birthday and a beautiful iced cake made by Mrs M. Roberts and as our guest Mrs Una Apps cwt the cake. The afternoon finished at 3.3Opm.

We now start all the usual fortnightly afternoons at the village hall 2pm. Our April meetings are on the 6th and 20th. We would welcome new members so please if you would like to join us just come along and see how you enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

DODDINGTON COFFEE MORNINGS 2001.
My warmest thanks to. everyone who helped to make these such a success this year. The last one on 17 March 2001 raised the magnificent sum of ? 372.20 for the After School Project f or Doddington Primary School. Again it was a very happy event, even though at one time there were so many people in the hall it was standing room only ! Thank you all once again. Mary Chastney.

Report of
DODDINGTON PARISH COIJNCIL MEETING
HELD ON 12TH MARCH 2001
by Linda Lumsden.

9 members of the public attended.

The Chairman opened the meeting by expressing the sadness felt by all present at the problems facing farmers.

The co-option of a new Councillor was the first item on the agenda. Everyone expressing an interest in being considered for the position had been asked prior to the meeting to submit a short letter saying why they should be co-opted. These letters had been distributed to all Councillors before this meeting. The vote was held by secret ballot in public, with Cohn Prescott and the Clerk Eileen Trethewey to act as tellers.; Sara Jones was coopted by a majority vote. Chairman Mary Chastney thanked all the candidates and expressed her hope that their interest in the Council would remain.

Janet Harris the head Teacher at Doddington School had asked to come along and address the Council She asked for support for the school from the Parish Council and Villagers as the school had achieved a great deal in terms of numbers of children attending and the Pre-school, opening. The school is looking to set up a Breakfast Club as well as an After School club. Janet was pleased to announce the success of the school Football team who had won every match played in the last 6 months. The school is looking to replace existing fencing with matching iron railings in the near future as well as planning a computer Suite for the benefit of the children of the school. She was thanked for her informative talk and support was assured by the council as well as by several members of the public.

A member of the public thanked the Parish Council for its action in getting drains cleared. It was reported that a "lake" has appeared in Stuppington Lane due to the heavy rain. This is to be given urgent priority in a letter to the Highways dept.

A reply has been received from Kent Police re; boundary on Wychling Hill. it appears that Swale police/Maidstone Police boundary is about a third of the way up Wychling Hill.

There is to be a meeting with Mr Haratbar of Swale Highways dept and P.C. Denyer Road Safety Officer (Swale) on trafflc calming on Monday 23rd April at 730pm in the Village Hall. As this was an area that concerned most residents in the recent survey a good attendance of the public is expected. A member of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will also be at the meeting to give the environment perspective. SEE POSTER ADVERTISING

MEETING IN NEWSLETTER.

The Kent Rural Advisor will be speaking at the Parish Council Annual Meeting in May about the possibilities available for looking into a community shop. A questionnaire will be sent out to all villagers before this date.

Last month it was reported to the Parish Council that sludge was being emptied into drains and gullies from Wheelie bins by contractors. We have been informed that wheelie bin cleaning is done under closed conditions with very little water seepage into drains, if anyone has any comments to make about this can they please contact one of the Councillors

The redevelopment of the telecommunications mast at Colyers Farm has been approved by Swale Borough Council with restrictions, mainly concerning the removal of the mast when no longer required. Hopes Hill planning application was turned down by Swale

The cleaning of the playing surface of moss has not been successful. Alistair Clinton to look into which chemicals are required to effectively kill the moss which is a potential hazard to youngsters.

The problem with potholes appearing in all our roads has been brought to the attention of Highways dept. They say that the adverse weather conditions, heavy rain followed by very cold spells has been the cause. Please remember to report potholes directly to Swale highways dept on 01795 417210 Councillor Ian Woodhouse would like to know when you have reported it so that he can monitor progress. 01 795 886251.

Next Meeting. Monday 9thApril 800pm in Village Hall.

Copies of the minutes will be available after the next meeting at the Clerks Tel 01795 530161.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
FOR DODDINGTON VILLAGE CLEAN UP DAY SATURDAY 7 th APRIL.

MEET OUTSIDE THE CHEQUERS AT 9.3OAM

Recipe of the month

Tuna and Tomato Pasta
A tasty and easy-to-make dish, and a quick alternative meal if meat becomes scarce.

You will need

1 tablespoon cooking oil

1 medium onion, peeled and thinly sliced

1 400g can chopped tomatoes with herbs

1 level tablespoon concentrated tomato puree

A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces

2 level teaspoons sugar

Freshly ground black pepper

6 oz (175g) pasta shapes (fusilli, the corkscrew shape, is good for this recipe)

1 185g can tuna chunks

3oz (150g) strong cheddar cheese (grated)

Shallow baking dish (oiled)

How to make it

Gently fly the onion in a pan, keeping the lid on, until soft and golden. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, pepper and sugar. Replace the lid and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Whilst preparing the sauce, cook the pasta as directed on the packet. Now drain the pasta and add to the sauce. Stir gently together, then fold in the drained tuna. Spoon into the dish, and cover the surface with the grated cheese.

Pop into a hot oven for 10-15 minutes until bubbling and crisp on top. Serves 3.

Tip: The sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated while the pasta is cooking.
Tip: Use dried mixed herbs if fresh basil is not available, or try the new chopped frozen herbs you will find in the freezer cabinet at the supermarket
Tip: If time is really short, cheat with a ready-made tomato and basil sauce

PAGE 4.

DODDINGTON & DISTRICT VILLAGE SHOW 2001.

1 September 2001 is the date and the committee look forward to another bumper show, the schedule should be available by May, possibly' earlier. To whet the appetite and to give you some thing to do while the weather is awful there follows a list of the craft and photography classes:

CLASS 46 FOR MEN ONLY - A teapot stand any medium

CLASS 47 Any crocheted article

CLASS 48 Any hand knitted garment

CLASS 49 Any canvas work article on stiff canvas, unmounted

CLASS 50 Any counted thread work article on soft material including cross stitch, unmounted.

CLASS 52 A garment, machine sewn

CLASS 53 A piece of dolls house furniture.

CLASS 54 A pencil drawing of any subject maximum A5 size

CLASS 55 A book cover. Title & design of your own choice A4 folded

CLASS 56 A painted pebble

CLASS 57 A water colour any subject maximum A4 size

CLASS 58 A photograph BIRDLIFE print not an enlargement

CLASS 59 A photograph BLOOMING MARVELLOUS Print not an enlargement

CLASS 60 Children 6 & under Miniature garden on a plate

CLASS 62 Children 7 to 10. Piece of jewellery any medium

CLASS 63 Children 11 to 16. Piece of jewellery any medium

CLASS 64 Children 11 to 16 Decorated T-Shirt any medium

Entries limited to one entry per person in each class Entrants must live in Doddington, Newnham, Wychling' or be members of an organisation based in one of these three villages.

DODDINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH.

Approximately 500 Kent Peg Tiles valued at ? 1,000. were stolen between 4pm on Thursday 22nd February and 9am on the Friday morning from the stables at The Street Doddington. Swale Police would like to hear from anyone who has information regarding this incident on 01795 477055 and quote Ring Master message 0152.

An elderly victim' had 3 (three) persons enter her house and stole cash and pensions book in the name of Bessie Down. They called at the door and entered claiming to look for a "Marie". Vague description;
1. Female white, dark hair tied back wearing a dark anorak.
2. Female white, short mousy hair, blur anorak and dark trousers.
3. Male white, 5 '10" dark unkempt hair and dark trousers.
Any information to the N.H.W. Office on 01795 584143.

Between the hours of 4pm on the 9th March. and 9.3Oam on 12th March a door to the annex of North Court Farm' Eastling' was damaged and a Stihl Chainsaw, Husquavara Chainsaw, Kawasaki Petrol Strimmer, Bosch Drill and a Ryobi. Grinder' were stolen Any information to the N.H.W. Office on 01795 584143 and quote ring master message RM0152.

Swale Police have issued a fresh appeal for information on property stolen during a burglary at Selling, Faversham in February which involved a number' of Antiques stolen between 10..30 am and 4.20 on Tuesday 13th February when a Black Basalt Wedgwood Figure of Bacchanate Measuring 15" by 15&3/4" on a Mahogany Base. The Base measured 19" x 10" and had rounded ends and a glass dome. The figure was one of a pair and was valued at ? 1,000. Also stolen was a brass Mantle with Mercury Pendulum. The Clock, valued at ? 450.00 was set on a wooden grooved base. Police would also like to trace a set of six silver Fish Knives and Forks in an Antique Presentation box. The Cutlery which had engraved decorations on both handles and blades was valued at ? 100.00. Anyone with information please contact DC John Lyons on 01795 584139.

If you wish to receive NHW messages via email contact. Brian Wimlett at Brian.wimlett@whitehill-intl.com .
Ian Pateman NHW Co-ordinator

FREE....
To good home: Sega Mega drive with 5 games.
Apply to Mrs Glover... 01795 662908.

KIND PERSON.
Kind person required to cut grass and keep garden tidy.... 01795 890257

KERBSIDE RECYCLING.
Collection dates for April... 10th; and 24th.

PAGE 5.

DODDINGTON & DISTRICT W.I.
The Birthday meeting March 8th, President Mrs Martin began the meeting with a warm welcome to guests and member's also W.I. Advisor Mrs Ambers

After the apologies a short business session included reading the minutes and dealing with any matters arising. We were also informed at the success of Mrs Chastney's Coffee Morning in February' which raised a substantial sum for Demelza. Houses The March Coffee Morning is to support funding f or a community project at Doddington School.

Our speaker for the afternoon was Mrs Procter. She spoke of 'Grandmothers Needle Box' and illustrated her talk with many sewing and knitting aids from the past. Mrs Sage gave the vote of thanks.

A delicious tea followed organised and served by member Mrs Joan Webster and her helpers. Our Birthday' cake was made and iced by' Mrs Charlton and Mrs Martin. Mrs Ambers presided over the cake cutting ceremony' and thanked Doddington on behalf of herself and our guests for their enjoyable afternoon with us.

This months competition was won by- Mrs Maxwell. Mrs Chastney' and Mrs Martin tied for 1st place in 'The flower of the month competition.

Mrs Martin; ended the afternoon by thanking all those who had contributed to the success of our 54th Birthday' meeting, the raffle was drawn and everyone was wished a safe journey-home.

Our next meeting will be on Thursday April 12th at 2.l5pm at Doddington Village Hall, when Mr Goodburn will give a talk on 'The Splendors of Venice'.

Visitors and new members always welcome.

NEWNHAM VALLEY W.I.
Our March meeting was chaired by our president Mrs Pamela Hawkins, who welcomed members and our speaker. We began our meeting with our speaker Mrs Baxter, who gave us a very interesting and informative talk. This talk entitled 'Hope Romania' was about two women one from Canterbury (Mrs Baxter and friend) a Romanian teacher of English who bought a house in North west Romania and opened a family style Romanian orphans or abandoned children and then set about bringing them up in a secure happy' Christian environment. At the present time ten children live in the house, which is called 'Casa Hope'. Mrs Baxter was warmly' thanked by Mrs R. Sampson After a short break for refreshments we dealt with the business for March. Mrs Pamela Hawkins thanked Mrs Rita Sampson for making the arrangements for our Spring Meal which was thoroughly enjoyed by- members.

Members were reminded of the group meeting- arrangements. The Top Team. Quiz will he held on 24th May 2001.

Mrs V. Tolburst said how much she and Mrs J. Pilcher enjoyed the Doddington Birthday' Party members were asked to support the Doddington Coffee morning if at all possible.

The competition winner was Mrs J. Bland with a home made toy.

Flower of the month winner was Mrs R. Sampson and a limerick by' President Mrs Pamela Hawkins was selected as our entry for the group meeting competition.

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday 19th April when. our speaker will be Jenny Mailey her subject 'A clay experience'... Should you wish to join us on the 19th you will he welcome

SIIARSTED SPORTS CLUB.
The weather has been a bit kinder the last few weeks allowing the club to play' some football The 1st Xl won against Boughton 3 ? 1 in the League, but lost to Chilham twice in 2 different Cups.... Competitions 5 after extra time, hard luck lads. The 2nd Xl have had only one game winning that 4 - 0 versus Canterbury-Post Office Reserves. With weather so unsettled it is difficult to see how the Club can play all their fixtures.

The final count has been made from the Charity Ball in December resulting in another £300. for the Club and Cancer. On behalf of the club a big THANK you to all who helped and organise this event.

NEWNHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Resume of minutes of last meeting, 1st. March 2001

Recreation:

1. Youth Facilities: Cur. Gunner informed the Council that an application for funding had been made, since the time-limit for such applications was near expiry. A lengthy discussion between the Councillors and some Wineycock residents expressed strong opposition to any plans to site the Youth Shelter on the green. Cur. Woodall pointed out that the scheme was part of a Police Crime Deterrence initiative, and had proved successful in other areas by giving teenagers a place of their own in which to congregate. Cur. Seath reiterated that the project was in its early stages, and that all residents adjacent to the area concerned would have an opportunity to object when planning was applied for.

Other Village Matters:

1. Footpath fouling by dogs: Despite the current restriction in force owing to the foot-and mouth epidemic, the reduction of this nuisance has been maintained.

2. The concerns of villagers about the Sharsted Hill/The Street junction was discussed at length, all residents living at the foot of the hill being present. The erosion of the verges owing to both parking and the use of the Hill as access to Sharsted Court by heavy lorries was allowing vehicles to pass dangerously near to the boundary fences. Kerbing at the junction would be of assistance in alleviating the problems of both erosion and the channeling of water and mud flowing down the Hill. Cllr. Adgie was already in correspondence with the Cleansing Department with regard to the inefficiency of the surface-water drains both at the this junction, and at other locations throughout the village, and Cllr. Seath had arranged a site meeting with Mr. Haratbar of Swale Borough Council to emphasize the problems.

3. A letter from the Charities Commission with regard to one the Village charities had been forwarded to the trustees.

4. Swale Borough Council had provided copies of signs to be posted on local footpaths crossing agricultural land. Cur. Seath has made further copies for distribution to local farmers.

5. Two representatives of the Scrambling Club were present at the meeting, and expressed their willingness to try to reduce the number of unofficial practice-meetings currently taking place. Efforts had been made to make access to the field more difficult by the erection of a barbed-wire barrier. Residents - were asked to note dates, times, and, if possible, registration numbers of vehicles used to transport bikes to the site. The Scrambling Club suspects that the offenders are not bonafide club members.

Cur. Seath had received the following letter regarding this matter, which is quoted verbatim:

"To Newnham Parish Council.

We note in the Village Newsletter your comments and concern with the Scrambling Club in Newnham Valley adjacent to the motorway and wonder if you are aware of the latest developments.

The small field on the corner of Straight Hill, which Mr Gambell used to rent for his sheep, has now become part of the larger field used by the club.

The fence has been removed between the two fields and the gateway on Straight Hill opened up for access. Straight Hill at the best of times very dangerous due to the narrowness and bends.

Last weekend there was some activity on the field and this new access used thus causing mud on the road. If this now to become the new entrance it will be just as dangerous as the one on Newnham Valley Road itself. Straight Hill is the main access route for the Stuppington Area.

From Stuppington Residents

28 February 2001

" While the Council was grateful for this information, but the Chairman pointed out that the council cannot act further in the absence of a signature or signatures. If the Stuppington Residents would like to make themselves known to the Chairman, the complaint can be forwarded to the appropriate authorities."

Date of next Meeting:

The next Ordinary Parish Meeting will be held in the village hall at 8.00 pm on the Thursday 5th. April 2001.

Cur. Brian Seath (Chairman) 890207: Cllr. Roger Woodall (Vice-chairman) 890767,

Cur. Christina Dartnell (Hon. Treasurer) 890461: Cllr. Sue Gunner 890627: Cllr Mike Meakins 890437:

Cur. John Llewellin 890358: Cllr. John Adgie 890450: Clerk to the Parish Council, Mrs Sheilagh Larrett 890725

DODDINGTON COFFEE MORNING.

17th March 2001... Thanks to Many' Chastney all helpers the W.I. and all who supported this event. A marvelous £372.20 was raised and was denoted to the Discovery After School Club. It was a great morning and good to see so many people enjoying themselves. Thanks again..... Joan Tuckey' .. Chairman of the Discovery Club.

AUCTION.

This years Spring Auction will be in April. Back by popular demand it will be held on the week end of APRIL 21st and 22nd.

We will be accepting items for Auction entry at 10 am. on Saturday 21st. Viewing items for sale will be from l0am on Sunday and the Auction will start at 12 noon on 22nd April.

As before we will NOT accept Bicycles, Clothing , Books , Magazines, or Electrical or Gas Appliances without a certificate.

The Village Hall Committee will retain 15% commission on items sold. Refreshments will be available on Sunday and Catalogues will be on sale on the day of the Auction.

JUMBLE SALE.
A jumble Sale to be held in Doddington School Hall on Saturday APRIL 28th. from 10 to 11 am. Jumble can be left at the School on Thursday 26th or Friday 27th of April after 3.l5pm.

HELP.. VILLAGE PANTO.

1. Old gingham dresses (Any size or condition)

2. Black material or long black dresses (Any size or material)

5. Net curtaining or sheeting.

4. Blazer type jacket (gents or ladies) red, pink or powder blue , size 44" chest.
Please contact Judy Potts on 01795 886 383

DVH DODDINGTON VILLAGE HALL

Registered Charity No. 1055616

Doddington Village Hall - Auction Sunday 22nd April 2001

We are pleased to he able to advise you that Doddington Village Hall will be holding another of its auctions on Sunday 22nd April 2001. As before, in order to improve the efficiency of admitting goods on Saturday 21 st April, we have decided to start taking lots at 10.00am and have enclosed some blank forms for you to complete before you arrive

The Managing Committee have decided once again that to ensure the quality of goods we will not be accepting any - gas or electrical items unless they have a certificate of inspection - no bikes or pushchairs - no items of clothing - no books or magazines - as they are difficult to display effectively.

The booking in officers will exercise discretion on Saturday as goods arrive and vendors will not be allowed entry into the hall until their goods have been checked. We hope this will allow the auction on Sunday to proceed more quickly and also to improve the quality of goods offered for sale.

If you have any queries, please contact Les Roberts on 01795 886332/We look forward to seeing you once again.

DODDING TON PARISH COUNCIL

Come to our village meeting responding to the NO1 issue you identified in the village questionnaire

TRAFFIC CALMING
Monday 23rd April 7.3Opm at the village hall

The aim of the evening is to provide in formation on traffic calming from the Highways, Police and environmental perspectives, enabling our community to look at how we can take this issue forward We have also asked representatives of the Kent Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty to speak on their organisation

Speakers on the evening will be:

Mr Harratbar Highway Manager S wale Borough Council

P.C Denyer Kent Police Swale

Sally EvanslMartin Hall Kent Downs A.O.N..B

PAGE6

THE WEATHER MARCH 2001.
The month started off continuing the cold spell that began at the end of February. The temperature fell to -2.7. degrees on the 4th and 2.6 on the 5th. Since then we have had a prolonged wet period, but day time temperatures have reached 16.7 degrees on the 7th and 15 degrees on the 6th, 15th and 23rd.

Once again it is rainfall that we are most aware of, so far a total of 112.92mm. It is most interesting to see the streams that are developing on some fields carving new channels for themselves, some now 15 to 20 cms deep. It is not surprising that after even a moderate rainfall water is lying on the surface in many gardens and pastures. Particularly if you take the short cut from Eric Wood to Bapchild.

Winds have been light to moderate up to now,. the strongest gust a mere 27 mph on the 12th. There have been 6 ground frosts and 4 air frosts with just 3 days when snow was lying, though only a centimeter or so. It seems to have been a slow and reluctant spring; however, taken as a whole the winter has been slightly' milder that the long term average, though considerably' wetter.
John Howell.

WILDLIFE NOTES.
Just when we thought spring was underway, the weather turns cold and nasty again. Presumably the birds that were starting to nest build - from my window I saw a Blackbird, a Robin and a House Sparrow all carrying nesting material - well carry on. However, the bumblebees which had emerged from hibernation will probably have gone back to sleep. A number of species of bumblebees are found locally: the earliest ones are likely to be the large White tailed Bumblebee and Buff- tailed Bumblebee. Similar looking but not closely related is the long tongued flower bee only' by the scientific name of Anthophora plwnipes - this bee also emerges early in the year (I saw one on the 12th March. at Doddington School), but is black all over with no yellow stripes.

On the morning of the 23rd March, I took a walk to look for wildflowers. Wood Anemones at Doddington Churchyard were just starting to flower, though they' were in full bloom this time last year. Primroses are well out and the delicate pink flowers of the Lady's Snack or Cuckoo Flower will be out soon (although those in Doddington Churchyard have had their tops nipped off by rabbits). The daffodils in the churchyard are making a fine show. Most of these appear to be the true Wild Daffodils being short of stature with grayish leaves, pale and deep yellow trumpets. Whether this represents the relics of a truly wild population, or whether they were deliberately' introduced many years ago I cannot say. Wild Daffodils are quite scarce in Kent., with the best populations now in Abbey Wood and Bromley.

The foot and mouth restrictions have put much of the local countryside out of bounds but the garden still offers a lot to enjoy', Mick Barry reports a pair of Marsh Tits visiting his garden everyday- and has been visited by a Sparrow hawk. I am watching a Marsh Tit on the bird table as I write this and my fat feeder has also been visited by a Coal Tit, easily identifies by the clean, white stripe which runs up the back of the otherwise black head. All around Doddington the Little Owls are giving their 'whoop' song (day and night) while in Newnham Mick Barry notes hearing the hooting of two male Tawny, Owls answered by a female.
Richard Moyse.

FAVERSHAM CHORAL SOCIETY.
The Society is hosting a scratch performance of John Stainer's Easter Canata 'Crucifixion'' in st. Mary' of Charity Parish Church, Faversham on Saturday April 7th., There will be an afternoon rehearsal, followed by tea which will be provided, and then a performance will be at 7pm. Anyone who is at all interested in singing is warmly invited to join on this occasion and if you really don't. sing, but would like to listen, please come to the performance at 7pm Singers' tickets are £ 5. to include tea and provision of music and audience tickets are £3 Why' not begin the celebration of Easter in the company of the rest of us on April 7th.
Further details may be obtained from Dorothy Davies (890566) or- Pam Hawkins (886 248).

CLOSING DATE FOR MAY 2001.24th APRIL at 6pm.
HAPPY EASTER TO ALL READERS.