media.acny.uk · front and back cover photos taken by don braithwaite of flowers in lucilla...
TRANSCRIPT
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Cover pictures:
Front and back cover photos taken by Don Braithwaite of flowers in Lucilla Mackay’s garden.
Cover: designed by Don Braithwaite.
The colour pages are usually printed by Langford Printers, Chaucer Business Park, Kemsing.
For July issue
Copy date: Wed. 10th June
Please Note: external advertising in this magazine does not imply an endorsement or promotion of the advertisement, nor its content, products or services. Errors & omissions, whilst regrettable, may occur.
ADVERTISEMENT RATES
FOR VILLAGE NEWS FROM JANUARY 2020 Enquiries to Richard Hughes (see contact details on p1).
Please make all cheques out to St Mary’s Platt PCC. If out of local area, please send sae for copy of Village News if required
If possible, please send adverts in Word, Publisher or Power Point.
Rates given are per month / per calendar year (10 issues)
Colour Black & White
Premium position on inside cover ½ page
Annual £305 N/a
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£12 / £96 ¼ Page (6 x 8.5cm) from £17 / £136
NOTICE BOARD (small ads) Up to 20 words £6.00 / £48
Copy and Collating dates for Village News
The next issue is for June
Copy to the editor by Wednesday 13th May
This edition is likely to be issued online.
Articles to be under 600 words except by arrangement with the editor.
Page 3
VILLAGE NEWS Published by St Mary’s Platt Church for the community
and delivered free to all houses in St Mary’s Platt, Wrotham Heath, Comp, Crouch, Basted Mill and the Old Sawmill.
Church Address: Long Mill Lane, Platt, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 8NE
See also the church website: achurchnearyou.com/church/16926
Reader, Pastoral Assistant and Anna Chaplain
Jane Sankey, Orchard House, 71 Sevenoaks Rd, Borough Green, TN15 8AR email: [email protected] 01732 883212
Reader
Jan Martin, Flat 13, Roman Court, Borough Green, TN15 8NY
email: [email protected] 01732 884417
Churchwardens
Lucilla Mackay, 65 Crouch Lane, Borough Green, TN15 8LU email: [email protected] 01732 882045
David Mills, 3 Mays Cottages, Platt Common, St Mary’s Platt, TN15 8JX email: [email protected] 01732 885253
PCC Hon. Treasurer
Alan Senior, Wismer, Long Mill Lane, St Mary’s Platt, TN15 8NA
email: [email protected] 01732 886245
PCC Hon. Secretary
Jan Martin, Flat 13, Roman Court, Borough Green, TN15 8NY
Email: [email protected] 01732 884417 Village News magazine
Editor Jane Sankey, Orchard House, 71 Sevenoaks Rd, Boro’ Green, TN15 8AR email: [email protected] 01732 883212
Deputy Editor Lucilla Mackay,65 Crouch Lane, Borough Green, TN15 8LU email: [email protected] 01732 882045
Advertising for Village News
Richard Hughes, 38 Greenlands, St Mary’s Platt, TN15 8LL
email: [email protected] 01732 886260
Clerk to Platt Parish Council
Jackie Davies, Bluebell Place, Grange Rd, St Mary’s Platt, TN15 8LD
email: [email protected] 01732 886822
Parish Council website
www.hugofox.com/community/platt-parish-council-12617
Vicar – The Revd Dr Lorraine Turner
The Vicarage, 24 Maidstone Rd, Borough Green, TN15 8BD
Email: [email protected] 01732 882447
Page 4
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Page 5
Abbreviations and locations: MH = Memorial Hall, at the junction of Long Mill Lane and the A25, CR = Memorial Hall Committee Room, GR = Garden Room (attached to the church) Stonehouse Field – signposted from Long Mill Lane near the Memorial Hall. * indicates further details elsewhere in this issue.
FLAG DAYS In normal circumstances the St George’s flag would be flown from the church tower for on Ascension Day, Thursday 21st May. This is 40 days after Easter. If the church is still closed then, it will not be possible to do this.
Chris Jeffrey and David Palmer
CONTENTS From the Vicar 7
Diary for May 8
Church Notes and Services 8
From the Editor 10
Mission Giving 11
VE Day 17
KCC and T&MBC Services and Helplines 22,23,24
Harpwood Newsletter 24
Food Bank Information 25
Our Crazy Weather 27
Bible study course 29
Margaret Vinson RIP 35
There are ways that people manage to keep in touch online and as they walk round the woods and lanes. Neighbours join in on Thursday evenings to show their appreciation for the NHS and essential workers. The warm sunny weather has meant that many of us have spent time in the garden, maybe working or just as likely to be chatting to neighbours, at a distance of course – even coffee mornings!
With the magazine online we can keep in touch now with the many people, usually former residents, who have been sent copies every month. Very best wishes to you, wherever you are. It would be good to hear from you!
Keep well and safe. Editor
Page 6
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Page 7
LETTER FROM THE VICAR As I write, I hear we are to expect at least 3 more weeks of lockdown… however, with the current death toll reported at 13,729 and so much still unknown about how the virus spreads, these measures represent the best our government can do to keep us safe from the virus. There are salutary reminders though, in the rise of calls to domestic violence support lines and mental health support lines, that there are many other risks that the lockdown increases. In Platt people are looking out for their neighbours in many ways and there is an important reminder to be looking out for people’s safety as well as practical needs.
St Mary’s is doing its best to support our parish spiritually, practically and safely. At a spiritual level there is daily community prayer at 9.30 (Mondays to Saturdays) and 10.30 Sunday Communion through Zoom (https://zoom.us/j/2749958875 password: worship).
At a practical level we can offer both Phone Friends and Shopping Friends. When thinking about safety our volunteers already have a leadership role in church or have been specifically safely recruited for their roles. There are new safeguarding links from our website including an article by Bishop Simon and an NHS safeguarding video. Do phone me on 01732 882 447 to find out more about our Friends schemes or to speak to me about any concerns on your hearts and minds at this time. I am happy to offer a listening ear.
At times of emergency people sometimes wonder and ask if we have done something that might have led God to send the emergency as a punishment. I am certain that this is not the case. One message of Easter is that God seeks to teach us by loving us and dying for us, not by sending Old Testament style plagues. (Even these, I believe were simply an ancient people’s attempt to understand how God worked in their world rather than being a definitive description of God’s activity.) And yet I believe there is a religious dimension to our situation… it comes from a well-known English version of the Lord’s Prayer….forgive us our trespasses… it seems to me that humanity has been trespassing on nature in many ways.
The practice of selling live bats for people to eat in Chinese markets is a particular example of trespassing on nature but we have all lived in ways where nature has been harmed to support our lifestyles. I believe that God does indeed forgive us our trespasses, but nevertheless, allows us to live with the consequences of our poor decisions in the hope that humanity may one day learn how to live in balance with the whole of creation.
This is a painful time in so many ways. It may be that this pain leads to (Continued on page 8)
Page 8
DIARY FOR MAY If there other village meetings online which you would like publicised here please email details for the June edition of Village News – see page 3 for contact details.
It is anticipated that all the services and events will be by Zoom. Further details will appear on the church website nearer the time but see Church Notes below also.
Monday to Saturday 09.30 Morning Prayer 3rd FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER 10.30 Holy Communion 6th, 20th, 27th Wednesdays 20.00 Bible Study with Revd Andrew Proctor (see page 29) 8th Friday BANK HOLIDAY to celebrate 75th Anniversary of VE Day 10th FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER 10.30 Holy Communion 13th Wednesday 20.00 PCC Meeting 17th SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER 10.30 Holy Communion 21st Thursday Ascension Day 24th SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER 31st SUNDAY - PENTECOST (Whit Sunday) although a 5th Sunday, this will not be a combined Pilgrim Parishes service
CHURCH NOTES Join us online or by phone
Paper copies of Village News travel far and wide every month. Now that it is online, of necessity, it can be enjoyed even further afield. It was good to see that one former Platt resident enjoyed reading it online in Canada. Obviously we are sorry for those who rely on the paper copy; we will print those as soon as possible, but it will also be available online from now on.
Why not worship with us from afar?
• The service sheet for Sunday 10.30 Communion Service is attached below the picture of Chris and Lorraine on the website https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/16926/page/54705/view/)
(Continued on page 9)
a world largely unchanged. However, if enough people have the will to learn the hard lesson of these times, perhaps a new world can emerge. Can we build a world where nature has its safe place, a world where vulnerable people find the support and care that they need in order to be safe too? I pray that the answer to this question is “Yes”.
God Bless,
Lorraine
Revd Dr Lorraine Turner, Vicar, 882477
(Continued from page 7)
Page 9
(Morning prayer continues daily Monday to Saturday at 09.30...from Daily Prayer App or download the sheet from our church website).
• After the service we will sing some hymns. The words will be in an email or I can deliver a hymn sheet to you if you ring me. Also, for anyone interested, there are chat rooms for those who would like to be part of small group conversation afterwards... (just because it’s tricky for 70 people to talk in the main room).
• We continue to seek opportunities for our safely recruited phone and shopping volunteers. Please let me know if you or anyone you know of might benefit from this support.
All our worship and the Bible Study are at https://zoom.us/j/2749958875 with the password ‘worship’. Please share this invitation with anyone you know who may be interested.
The usual details for participating in online worship follow below.
You will be able to control whether you are seen and/or heard from your screen so do what is comfortable. Do remember that if you join with audio and video turned on, we will be able to see/hear what’s going on around you. Ideally, I would like to record the service to share online so if you don’t want to be recorded please select mute and turn your video off. (You should still be able to see and hear me.)
You can also join with St Mary’s online Sunday Morning worship by telephone. To do this you dial a number and type in some other numbers as requested. You will then be able to talk to other church members, who have also connected, and hear the service. The number to dial is 0330 088 5830. This number attracts the same cost per minute as your phone package charges you for a standard UK landline call.
The stages in detail are:
1. Dial the number.
2. When it asks for a meeting ID… press 274 995 8875#
3. When it asks for the participant ID…. press #
4. When it asks for the password… press 673813#
You should then be connected to our online worship able to talk and be heard. Before the service starts there can be a lot of noise. Lots of people might be talking and there can be odd computer sounds but at 10.30 when we start worship, you will only be able to hear the words of the service and no-one will be hearing you. This makes it easier for people to listen.
If you would like to try this out beforehand then just give me a call. Also I can drop the service and hymn sheets to you.
Revd Lorraine Turner, Vicar, 01732 882447
(Continued from page 8)
Page 10
FROM THE EDITOR Six weeks ago we were finding it almost unbelievable that we might not be able to have a Mothering Sunday service in church. The church was shut, the day came and went, and life has changed fundamentally for all of us, surely never to return to how it was that short time ago. Now in lockdown, we are in strange, worrying and sad times that affect us all in varying ways. The restrictions placed on the population due to the coronavirus pandemic affect every aspect of our personal lives and the functioning and economy of the country. But nothing is as terrible as the devastating and arbitrary loss of life. Scientists may have seen the inevitability of a pandemic affecting the world at some time. But, just as we could not see what course it would take, no more can we predict what the situation will be in the months or even years ahead of us.
Change has come very quickly; the Mothering Sunday service was held by Zoom video conferencing which has been used for all services since then – daily Morning Prayer at 09.30 and Sunday services at 10.30 held by Revds Lorraine and Chris Turner for the congregations of the Church of the Good Shepherd, Borough Green, otherwise known as COGS, and Platt Church.
On Easter Sunday there were 67 computers or iPads logged on to Zoom. That meant there were probably over 100 people taking part in the service. Since then, Sunday by Sunday, there have been over 50 computers logged on. It has been a great joy to see that some people who are not physically able to get to church were enabled to join in the online worship. For many of us, the thought that we would ever be joining in online conferencing had probably never entered our minds! Of course, we would love to be worshipping together in churches, but at least this also gave us the opportunity to see and hear friends online and after the service to chat and check up on one another’s health and welfare – of course the tea or coffee and biscuits were missing! Since then there have been online meetings as well.
At this strange time, a time like no other, when our lives have changed so suddenly and completely, it would be good to keep diaries to record not only events, but our thoughts. Maybe there is also the opportunity to write our own personal life stories. Most of us probably feel that there is nothing special or particularly interesting about our own lives, but they are all different and could be of great interest to our families, even adding to the local history of our communities in the years ahead.
(Continued on page 11)
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Several people have been accepted as volunteers locally; some are involved delivering medicines to the over 70s. At the moment there are more volunteers than tasks, as very few people have requested help. Revd Lorraine suggests that if you are a volunteer with too much to do, a Shopping Friend with too many deliveries, or a Phone Friend with too many calls to make, she could find others to take over some of your tasks if you contact her. It would also be good to check that there are no people living nearby who are not receiving all the help they may need.
On Thursday evenings there are the sights and sounds of people showing their profound appreciation and gratitude, by clapping, ringing bells and making music. Initially it was for NHS workers, but week by week the help of more and more people who keep the wheels of our strange world turning, is recognised and acknowledged. We are delighted to include in the magazine the newsletter from Harpwood Care Home and applaud and give thanks for all who are working there to care for the residents. The list of people to thank is endless, from those who make the decisions – scientists and politicians and all involved in health care, to those who are producing programmes online for learning, entertainment and fitness, and delivery drivers and shelf stackers. The list is interminable as the inspiration grows. All our thoughts and prayers are with those whose lives are full of worry and fear for their livelihoods or businesses and most of all for those whose loss is that of a family member or close friend.
Jane Sankey, Editor, 01732 883212
(Continued from page 10)
MISSION GIVING For the months April to June Platt Church will be supporting Live Well Kent and our link Diocese of Harare in Zimbabwe.
About Harare, Dominic de Mattos writes: The situation in Harare continues to deteriorate. Zimbabwe will soon be heading into its cold season, and there is great concern that this will allow the Coronavirus to spread. The real concern is that that there could be a massive number of unreported cases. Few can afford to go to hospital, so those with mild to moderate symptoms are not seeking medical aid and are therefore not recorded. There are more detailed reports on the diocesan website – https://www.rochester.anglican.org/communications/news/covid-19-in-our-companion-dioceses.php
Notes from the website above – ‘Our companion dioceses of Harare in Zimbabwe, and Kondoa and Mpwapwa in Tanzania, are currently enduring their own lock downs as they face up to the coronavirus. Having recently spoken with the respective bishops in those countries – Bishop Farai, Bishop Given and Bishop Jacob – Bishop James observes that:
“The response needed to combat Covid-19 in these countries brings far (Continued on page 13)
Page 12
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Page 13
greater hardship than we are enduring in the UK”. As well as coping with a lock down, Harare continues to face the political and economic challenges it has endured for some time now. It is also suffering from the effects of drought. Poverty remains a challenge in both countries and food prices are rising sharply. Zimbabweans are struggling to survive with 600% inflation – making communication, so vital during lock down, difficult as data costs have soared.
One resident of Zimbabwe writes: "Zimbabwe has suddenly woken up to corona following our first death from the virus; a young guy. Unfortunately the hospital designated for corona patients didn't have any ventilators and when his parents managed to buy him one, there was nowhere to plug it in.”
Live Well Kent – In normal times there are many people who need the support of personal and community-based mental health services. We are now in times which are far from normal, putting an extra strain on many vulnerable people. Live Well Kent offers services, projects and supported work opportunities. Mental health apps are available to help with reducing issues such as stress, anxiety, panic and self-harming.
There are community services and useful resources, many of them online or apps. The resources include guidance for accessing mental health support and counselling services, particularly for young people. Advocacy, benefit and debt support are available, as is information about care and help with dependency issues relating to drugs and alcohol. Bore Place and the Blackthorn Trust offer supported courses for gardening, cooking, crafts and physical activities.
Core programmes are offered by Choice Support and Mind.
Jane Sankey
LIGHT UP THE TOWER There are many people who live in the village, some
within sight of the church tower for whom it is a landmark of significance, often as a memorial to loved ones
particularly when floodlit.
If you would like to take the opportunity to light up the church tower at some time to mark an anniversary, a
celebration or in memory of a loved one, you could do so for £30 a night. This could also include a dedication in Village News.
Please contact Sylvia Woodward on 883914 or Jane Sankey, 883212.
Page 14
A REMINDER OF SOME CANCELLED EVENTS The weekly Health Walks which begin from the church at 10.00 on Mondays have also been cancelled until further notice. Contact 01732 876347 for further details.
The Summer Party on Stonehouse Field due to take place on Saturday 4th July at 17.30 will not take place this summer. We must make it a bumper event in 2021!
Just as the church is closed at the moment so, obviously, is the Garden Room so there will be no weekly Café Platt or monthly Get-together lunches.
The Blue Anchor is not open until further notice.
Platt Woods volunteers – for the time being there will not be any volunteers’ days working in the woods. For further information contact David Palmer of the Woods Management Committee on 07554 798982
The survey which Revd Lorraine wrote about in the March Village News will be distributed with the first paper magazine we are able to produce.
Great Comp Garden has also had to shut due to the coronavirus but there are several videos on their website which offer a virtual tour of the gardens: www.greatcompgarden.co.uk See advert on page 26.
Ightham Mote, like all National Trust properties, is closed to the public. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ightham-mote
Great comp Music Festival 2020 has been cancelled entirely with great regret and apologies to our members, audience and performers. Those of you on the mailing list have received or will receive a letter to this effect.
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Page 15
In the month of May we pray to God…
…for a world in fear of the Coronavirus.
…for the leaders of the nations, scientists and all who bear the weight of responsibility.
…giving thanks for all who give of their skills, energies and love for others.
…for all NHS staff, carers, emergency services workers, who care for the sick – ceaselessly risking their own health.
…and give thanks for the life, work and example of Florence Nightingale, born on May 12th 1820.
…for the supermarket workers, hygiene and sanitation providers.
…for volunteers delivering medical or food supplies, kindnesses, gifts and everyday tasks in their communities.
…for those who are sick, anxious, alone or lonely and their families and friends who are concerned for them.
…for all communities, that as planned events and activities cease, care and compassion may grow.
…for staff and residents at Harpwood Care Home.
…for those who are not in a safe place or far from home at this worrying time.
…for families continually caring for, entertaining and schooling their children, and for all who find self-isolating distressing.
…for patients and loved ones not able to share last times together and the sorrow of parting.
…for all who have lost loved ones; may your comfort and compassion be with those who ache with the pain of grief.
And now unto him who is able to keep us from falling and lift us
up from the dark valley of despair to the bright mountain of hope,
from the midnight of desperation to the daybreak of joy; to him
be power and authority for ever and ever.
Martin Luther King 1929 - 1968
PRAYER DIARY God of compassion, be close to those who are ill, afraid or in isolation. In their loneliness, be their consolation; in their anxiety, be their hope; in their darkness, be their light; through him who suffered alone on the cross, but reigns with you in glory, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Page 16
Page 17
VE DAY
Editor – As in communities throughout the land, the local plans to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and the end of action in Europe in the Second World War have been cancelled due to the coronavirus epidemic. The Platt Memorial Hall Trustees had planned a street party to be held on Friday 8th May. Entertainment was planned for the children and many of us would have loved the opportunity to join in the village event. Being devoid of our own celebrations this year I sought details of VE Day itself and the celebrations which would have followed. Scott Wishart was obviously the person to ask.
Scott Wishart writes…
I recently spent a day at the Kent Archives looking through old newspapers to see if I could find any reports concerning any celebrations that may have occurred in the parish. Unfortunately, I drew a complete blank, so returned to the drawing board! Obviously, there was something (see attached pictures) which, after looking through the Parish Council archive, looks like it occurred in 1946 (probably on 8 June when the national celebrations took place) at St George’s Field. The Platt School logbook mentions that on the actual VE and VJ Days in 1945 it closed for the day but does not record any further details.
As you will see from the photograph below, Richard Hearne [Mr Pastry] made a speech though I cannot find any mention of what he may have
(Continued on page 19)
Page 18
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Page 19
NEIGHBOURHOOD PRAYERS During the month of May we will be remembering
in our prayers those who live in
Long Mill Lane (The Napps), Invicta Spur and Platt Common For special prayer requests at any time please contact
Revd Lorraine Turner on 01732 882447 or [email protected]
VE Day Celebrations on King George’s Field
said. What is interesting is that the same year a questionnaire was posted through the letterboxes of everyone in the parish asking how they thought the war should be commemorated in the community. By all accounts, only a very small number of people replied, and very little by way of funds was raised to pay for it, which is why it ended up just being the two additional plaques on the Memorial Hall. The other suggestions were a substantial extension to the hall or a new pavilion in King George’s Field. Perhaps people were just fed up with war, and wanted to forget about it and move on?
You can see the questionnaire here: http://plattmemorialhall.org/warmemorial/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/1946-Document.pdf
(Continued from page 17)
During the interviews I conducted with two ladies who lived in Platt in the war, I asked about VE Day, and whether they went to the celebrations in King George’s Field? Both said, ’No way, we went to London where the real party was!’ which suggests to me that it was probably held on 8 June 1946.
Page 20
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Page 21
VILLAGE JOTTINGS Home bakers short on flour?
I currently have a good supply of strong French bread flour at the vicarage. If you bring your own container and take your hour of exercise past the Borough Green vicarage, I’m happy to fill it up while observing a safe social distance of course. Revd Lorraine.
Help Offered during the Coronavirus Pandemic
Age UK have put together a 5-minute video for people volunteering during Coronavirus: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/neighbourly-volunteering/
Age UK have also produced a postcard that people can leave for residents.
Local Offers of Help
There are generous offers of help for Platt residents on the local online websites such as the Borough Green Pinboard and Platt and Borough Green Facebook pages.
Greenacres Garden Centre (just off the roundabout on the A25 out of Borough Green) is willing to deliver compost, plants, etc.
Village Report for the Sevenoaks Chronicle
Currently the Chronicle is not accepting community news and upcoming events from its village reporters. This is due to many of the staff being furloughed during the coronavirus epidemic. We hope that the columns will eventually return.
Fruit pickers wanted
This might be helpful for university students and others needing a job in these testing times https://www.britishsummerfruits.co.uk/jobs. Alternatively, there are reports of youngsters who have found that a direct personal approach to farmers has worked well.
Stolen Stones
At 02.30 during the night of 19th April a resident of Boneashe Lane awoke to hear a grating sound outside her window. The next morning she discovered that the dry stone wall at the front of her house had been dismantled and the stones removed. She reported the loss to the police as this is not the first time it has happened.
From time to time local people find that items such as rockery and paving stones are removed. The police have had some success in solving these crimes and even recovering the items. Obviously, the more information they have the better.
If you have also lost property recently or have any helpful information please contact the police at https://www.kent.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/. The crime number for the above loss is 46/67445/20. Editor
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FROM YOUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR It was my intention to devote most of this column to KCC’s co-operation with Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and the preparations for the further continuation of the T&M Local Plan process. In the time since last writing, the Local Plan process has been postponed indefinitely, pending suitable conditions to allow further progress. I shall keep you further advised once information is to hand.
Kent County Council (KCC) has, along with almost all other councils, encouraged and facilitated all officers, employees and members who are in a position to do so, to work from home. As a result, some public contact arrangements have changed both at KCC and at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council (T&MBC). My attention has been drawn by Cllr Harry Bott, the Chairman of Stansted Parish Council, to a handy compendium of contacts available for both local authorities, which has been compiled by Offham Parish Council, and which I reproduce with thanks to and acknowledgement of Mrs Lynn Mackie, the Clerk to Offham Parish Council.
I would also like to take the opportunity to thank all those at KCC – from Adult Social Services, Children’s Services through to Highways and Transportation and Public Health as well as all those too numerous to mention who continue to keep our public services going in the very difficult circumstances that currently pertain.
Harry Rayner, Kent County Councillor Tel 03000 421606 Email: [email protected]
KENT TOGETHER – HELPLINE LAUNCHED BY KENT COUNTY COUNCIL
A 24 hour helpline has been set up to support vulnerable people in Kent who need urgent help, supplies or medication.
The helpline – called Kent Together – provides a single, convenient point of contact for anyone in the county who is in urgent need of help during the Coronavirus outbreak. It is a collaboration between KCC, central Government, District, Borough and local councils, the voluntary and community sector, the NHS, emergency services and other partners to ensure help is at hand for vulnerable people.
It is also the place to report your concerns about the welfare of someone else.
Kent County Council Leader Roger Gough said: “In every district and borough throughout Kent and Medway there has been an incredible and heartening response to this pandemic, and we have a huge army of remarkable, public-spirited volunteers who are ready and willing to help
(Continued on page 23)
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each other through these challenging times.
“We now need to make sure that these vital resources are directed to where they are most needed. The new central helpline will link to Community Hubs across the county and ensure that we are effectively working hand in hand with the amazing teams out in the heart of communities in every part of Kent.”
Kent Together is being coordinated by Kent County Council which will feed the information through the network of volunteers, district and borough council teams and local support groups, to ensure people get the support they need, when they need it.
People’s needs will be assessed and staff will liaise with Community Hubs in the districts to prioritise those who need urgent help.
Mr Gough added: “At this unprecedented time, we all need to support each other to cope with the changes to our lifestyles we’ve had to make in order to delay the spread of Covid-19.
“I appreciate those radical changes have brought about difficulties and uncertainty and that we are all having to live our lives very differently.
“I hope with the launch of this service we can help bring some sense of familiarity and comfort back to those who desperately need it.”
If you are vulnerable and have an urgent need that cannot be met through existing support networks, you can contact the Kent Together helpline at www.kent.gov.uk/KentTogether or by calling on 03000 41 92 92. It is a 24 hour service.
Kent County Council also has a page on its website answering frequently-asked questions and the very latest Coronavirus information on its service updates page.
Visit www.kent.gov.uk to find out more. #Kenttogether
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council
Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council has a dedicated community support helpline and webpage for those in shielded medical isolation and those who are vulnerable from Covid-19. The webpage advising of the services being provided is now live at https://www.tmbc.qov.uk/services/community-andliving/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-community
All TMBC Council and Committee meetings are cancelled until further notice. The receptions at Kings Hill offices and Tonbridge Gateway are now closed. If you need to contact the Borough Council, please do so via email or telephone – see www.tmbc.gov.uk for details.
(Continued from page 22)
(Continued on page 24)
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TMBC has set up a dedicated web page to promote the latest health advice from the NHS and Public Health England and also to provide details of any changes to the delivery of council services.
https://www.tmbc.gov.uk/services/health-and-social-care/health-and-medicaladvice/coronavirus-covid-19
Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, in order to protect the core front line refuse, food waste and clinical collection services, the following services are suspended with immediate effect and until further notice:
Bulky waste collections – have been suspended. TMBC will complete existing bookings
Garden Waste Collections – have been suspended. TMBC will extend subscriptions to cover the period that they are unable to offer the service. Please do not put your brown bin out for collection until service is resumed.
New Garden Waste Subscriptions – TMBC will not be able to take any new orders until further notice. If you have already placed an order and paid your subscription fee, you will receive your bin.
Saturday Bulky Freighter service – has been suspended until further notice.
Further information is available at www.tmbc.gov.uk
(Continued from page 23)
HARPWOOD NEWSLETTER All the staff at Harpwood would like to say a VERY BIG THANK YOU to family, friends and the community in general for their cooperation, thoughts, prayers, support and donations during this difficult period. We have had messages of support from many people, we know that many of you are praying for us, the response to our appeal for donations of toiletries was overwhelming, and we have also been given donations of PPE. We are doing everything in our power to remain free from COVID 19 and your support is encouraging us.
We would especially like to thank the following for their kind and much appreciated donations:
• Lucas
• TPS Global Logistics Ltd
• Sewing for the NHS – Tonbridge Collective
• Mrs Naps Gallimore – The Ebbsfleet Academy
• Mr Barry Beck
We would also like to thank all the relatives and friends who have sent
Page 25
THE FOOD BANK The need for some people to receive provisions continues and has increased due to the lockdown. If you would like to make donations of store cupboard food items, there is a box in the vicarage porch during the daytime. Any such gifts would be much appreciated.
The Vicarage, 24 Maidstone Road, Borough Green.
goody boxes in for the staff; we are so grateful.
The boat trips and entertainers have been cancelled until further notice. However, we did enjoy a trip down Route 66 to an American diner, the chef served hamburgers and chips and we listened to ’50s Rock n Roll music.
The residents have been taking advantage of the good weather that we have had and are enjoying going out into the garden.
The regular crafts, bingo, singalongs and other activities are all continuing as usual. As, of course, are the birthday celebrations!
And we now have a small fish tank with goldfish in it which is proving popular and a soothing distraction.
We hope everyone is keeping safe and well and we look forward to seeing you all once everything has returned to normal.
Here are some messages from the residents. As always, thank you for all your continued support,
Team Harpwood
Page 26
BEDDING PLANT SALE Most of my plants have now been
sold but there are still some of the following left:
Trailing blue Lobelia ‘Monsoon’
Antirrhinum ‘Madam Butterfly’ Petunia, non-trailing mixed
colours
If you are interested in any of these, please contact Lucilla on
882045 or by email
All proceeds to Platt Church funds
Gardener, RHS trained
Available for small and medium gardens
Planting, weeding, pruning (sorry, no mowing) Garden advice and planning services
Contact: Katie Gardner
01732 884553 07986 888525
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MEMORIAL HALL NEWS Following Government guidelines and the even more stringent restrictions since our April report, our hall and gardens remain closed to all. All gardening and maintenance are suspended with the exception of essential maintenance such as fire checks, security, etc. This will be reviewed during the 1st week of May following the recent 3-week time scale set by government.
With the uncertainty of these extraordinary times in which we all find ourselves, we have decided to delay the new store/office extension until we can see light at the end of this tunnel, which, most likely, won’t be until next spring at the earliest. This time delay will also allow us to look for some sponsorship to help fund this project. To this end we have once again engaged Tom Roberts to look at our options and to see what funding, if any, is out there. We can report that our hall is in a strong position, so hopefully we will be able to ride out this rather strange situation and get back to our normal lives.
If you get the opportunity, do visit either our website www.plattmemorialhall.org or our Facebook page to see all the latest news and photographs posted by Scott Wishart.
David Vallance, Chair of Trustees, 883422
OUR CRAZY WEATHER Having enjoyed some beautiful sunny weather earlier in April, it was somewhat of a change to get rain, though the crops and gardens much needed it. Consequently, knowing that I keep daily records of the rainfall, several people have asked me how long a dry period we had had.
The last really significant rain we had was on 5th March! We had 32mm (nearly 1.5 inches) and then, on 9th March, another 8mm (0.3 in). After that it was 1 or 2mm which just about laid the dust but certainly did not get through under trees. So until 16th April when the weather broke, it was a period of 5 dry weeks!
Despite the grumbles of farmers and gardeners, it was a blessing to have this weather during the early weeks of lockdown. At least everyone could take their daily exercise without having to put on wet-weather clothes. Those lucky enough to have gardens must have been grateful to let children out to play and get rid of pent-up energy.
The forecast for the next couple of weeks looks good apart from a few showers, though the forecasters warn that this is uncertain depending on how a near a low pressure area comes which would bring more rain.
Enjoy the fine weather while you can!
Lucilla Mackay
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FOR YOUNGER READERS
Page 29
BIBLE STUDY COURSE I am hosting an online Bible study using Zoom on Wednesday evenings weekly except for Wednesday 13th May as there is a PCC meeting that evening. All are welcome. They start at 8:00pm and end no later than 9:30pm. Please simply log in, at any time from 7:45pm onwards, to the usual parish meeting room on Zoom using the regular code and password given on the church website and Facebook page.
We will be studying the book of the Acts of the Apostles, which is traditionally read at this time of the church’s year. We will be using Bishop Tom Wright’s study guide: "Acts for Everyone”. People would benefit from buying their own copy. I’ve just ordered one from eden.co.uk for £5:93. But there is be no need to buy. You can come along perfectly well with just a Bible to hand and join in.
Please don’t think the meetings will be too academic or otherwise high-powered for you. They are serious but relaxed meetings where we simply aim to derive benefit from sharing each other’s insights to the Bible text.
Acts is a lively book full of exciting encounters which we will enjoy discussing. We will end each meeting by saying together Night Prayer (formerly known as Compline). You can get the text of this by downloading either the Daily Prayer app or the Time to Pray app – both produced by the C of E free of charge. The order is in both. Again, no need to do this, it’s easy to follow without.
Look forward to seeing you. Andrew Procter, [email protected]
BOROUGH GREEN MEDICAL PRACTICE Current Prescription Arrangements
Please spread the following information among friends and family for whom it may be relevant. All prescribed medication from Lloyds Pharmacy, Borough Green is now being delivered to patients of the Borough Green Medical Practice who are aged 60 years and over. Currently this medication cannot be collected from the pharmacy.
As soon as dispensed, the medication is put into a box for the team of volunteers to deliver. At the moment deliveries usually start mid-morning and again mid-afternoon. Things may change as the system settles down and becomes more streamlined. The updated information will be available on the medical practice’s website: www.boroughgreenmedicalpractice.co.uk
Page 30
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Page 31
FROM YOUR MP Living in through a national emergency has changed all of our lives. It has reminded all of us of the things that matter: health, family, and community. It has been heartening to see the way we have pulled together to help each other and to see our parishes at the heart of the response. The emergency is forecast to last for many weeks and the overriding priority must be to keep ourselves and our family, friends and neighbours safe. As we have seen from the Prime Minister’s condition, Covid-19 does not discriminate and no matter how healthy we may feel, we all run the risk of contracting the virus ourselves.
This has been hugely testing, but it has brought out the very best in our community. I would like to thank everyone in Platt who has done something extra to help someone in need. Helping by getting shopping in, or even just picking up the phone to see if they're okay, without a community spirit we would not be able to get through this challenging time.
The impact of this virus will be huge. From shrinking supply chains to a greater emphasis on community, our world will change and the speed of government action has shown that the ministers will act fast to help. Supporting employees and the self-employed has already made a huge difference to everyone. I believe it will allow the economy to restart rapidly when the conditions allow. That’s good for everyone.
I know not everyone will be able easily to access all they are entitled to so, if you have any questions please e-mail me with details of your personal situation on [email protected] so that I can help.
Life is changing so quickly for many of us that what I write here may be out of date by the time you read it, but whatever happens, I am here to do what I can for our community. My office may be closed to protect everyone’s health but the phone will still be answered if you call 01732 441563. The Government guidance is based on the very best scientific advice and we must stick to the social distancing measures if we are able to recover as quickly as possible.
I hope that you and all of your loved ones stay as safe as possible over the coming weeks. Please do be in touch if you have any concerns.
Tom Tugendhat, MBE, MP, [email protected]
In a more recent newsletter Tom writes:
Lockdown has left most of us locked up but a few have been out serving our community. I'd like to thank everyone who is playing their part either by fighting the disease, serving our community or following the Government guidelines to help prevent the spread. From key workers in the NHS to shop workers in our towns, people are staying home, protecting the NHS, and saving lives. Thank you. I'm also grateful to the Foodbanks, Parish Councils, and Kent County Council, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, and Sevenoaks District
Page 32
Council for their Community Hubs. I am delighted to have secured nearly £70 million from Government this month to support this vital work our councils are doing.
There is a fantastic network across our area. There is also a new website which matches people to services based where you are and what you need. If you have a skill, or need one, perhaps you can find someone on the 'Invicta' network. On your phone, you can download the Kalido app and it will match you to people who need help. You need to enter a few personal details and, as with other social media, you need to decide what you want to share. I hope this online community will help support the real community too. Have a look below for more details.
I hope that this information, and what I have included below, gives you information on just some of the help available at this difficult time. As ever, this is just a snapshot of what I'm working on. I can't put everything here so please look at my website: www.tomtugendhat.org/ which has more information about what I've been up to. I look forward to hearing from you.
The message to Stay at Home, Protect the NHS, and Save Lives is still as important as ever. I'm hugely grateful to everyone who continues to follow this advice, while also supporting our front line workers.
If you are over 65 or if you need to leave home for work, and you have symptoms of coronavirus – you or a member of your household can get tested here: www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested
Many people have kindly offered to help with Personal Protective Equipment. Please let me know if you have supplies and I can help get them to the front line. If you have a business able to help, make sure you let the Government know here: www.gov.uk/coronavirus-support-from-business
Regarding Kalido, you fill out information about yourself, including: profile picture, skills and help you can provide (or need), experience and interests. The app allows you to see who from your local neighborhood is around and browse their profiles to find out what they need or can provide. Here, you can also invite people you feel could benefit from Kalido too.
Add the skills you can offer or are searching for to your profile, for example:
What you can provide: What you want: “a maths tutor” “a maths tutor: “shopping collection”“ “someone to do my shopping” “emergency plumbing”“ “an emergency plumber” “someone to talk to” “someone to talk to” Once you are on board Kalido will send you a handful of timely communications to help you get the most out of the app.
Upcoming Surgeries For the foreseeable future my surgeries have all moved online, and will be done through Facebook Live. If you would like to raise something in private then please e-mail me on [email protected] and I will get back to you. My next Facebook Live surgery will be on Monday 4 May 2020 3.30pm-4.30pm. Live on my Facebook Page.
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PLATT STITCHERS Hello everyone. I do hope you are all well and not too frustrated by the isolation we have to endure currently. I thought you would like me to give you a reminder of the main items on our ‘to do’ list. For the Neonatal Baby unit at Pembury Hospital, they would like:
(1) 5-inch square ‘Bonding Blankets’ that are used between mother and baby.
(2) Fingerless mittens to cover their tiny hands, keep them warm, and protect them from the needles and drips that support their fragile lives.
(3) Tiny soft toys that the parents receive as a gift for the babies in the goodbye bag on discharge.
(4) For the ‘Friends’ stall in the hospital entrance, any baby items of hats, mittens, bootees, matinee jackets, and also larger toddler-size items are also welcomed.
Should any of you require patterns or further information for any of the above please contact me either by telephone or e-mail address below. Meanwhile take care, and thank you all for your input in supplying these items. I do hope it will not be too long before we can resume our meetings.
Ann Braithwaite, 887212
TONBRIDGE & MALLING RAMBLERS The Tonbridge & Malling Ramblers programme of walks has been cancelled until at least the end of May, following government advice on the Covid-19 virus. Our website at www.tonbridgeandmallingramblers.org.uk/ has been updated to show that all planned walks are cancelled. We will circulate a new programme when Ramblers group-led walks are up and running again.
Nicola Brown, Tonbridge & Malling Ramblers, 07709 334 871
NEWSPAPERS FOR VIKING OAK KENNELS Viking Oak Kennels, Seven Mile Lane is still taking animals for boarding but not for rehoming at present. They are most grateful to receive old newspapers which you might otherwise be putting out for recycling. However, if you take them there, you will have to unload them and put them in the shed yourself. This shed is immediately on your left as you come to the end of the entrance drive.
The kennels also appreciate donations of old bedding and towels.
While the church is closed please do not leave papers outside the doors.
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ST MARY’S PLATT AND DISTRICT SOCIETY Following advice from the government and lockdown conditions, our outing to Parham House on 14th May has been cancelled. Further information regarding the tea party on Friday on 10th July will follow at a later date.
Our AGM is due to take place on Tuesday 27th October with a talk to follow on the Kent Air ambulance Service.
In the meantime stay safe and well.
Linda Aldcroft, Honorary Secretary, 885467, [email protected]
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CORONAVIRUS SYMPTOM TRACKER In an effort to try to understand the spread and incidence of the virus, some major London hospitals are asking for those affected, and those who are well, to log in to join this survey: https://covid.joinzoe.com Full details are given on the website. Please take a look.
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IN REMEMBRANCE OF THE LATE
MARGARET VINSON RIP
16TH JUNE 1937 – 17TH MARCH 2020 A message from Lizzy Vinson On behalf of my sister Marianne and the family, we would like to thank all those who have supported us with their messages, condolences and memories of Margaret since her death in March, and all those who came to show their love and respect on her final journey around the lanes that she loved. Margaret first started visiting Borough Green when she became engaged to Jim in 1958. Margaret moved to Sotts Hole Cottage in Crouch Lane in 1960 after they married – they had been married for 59 years when Jim passed away last September.
She became a regular member of the congregation at her beloved church, then a mass centre (also used for jumble sales and badminton matches), St Joseph's in Borough Green. St Joseph’s has recently been rebuilt thanks in a big way to mum's continued campaign.
A fellow parishioner described Margaret’s ‘terrier with a bone’ attitude as being, “The huge asset which eventually gained us the new Church of St Josephs. 40+ years of gentle persuasion, pleading; and praying; plus gradually less gentle hectoring, harassing, and haranguing has left us, and future generations of Roman Catholics in the area with an enormous debt of gratitude and a legacy which can never be forgotten or surpassed.”
We’re not sure she realised how important her influence was on the powers that be and as her short–term memory became less reliable, all her hard work was a little forgotten, but she was very proud to be one of the longest serving parishioners at “St Joe’s” and enjoyed being able to worship at the new church.
Margaret met Jim while she was at Nonington College of Physical Education. As Jim was studying at the predominantly male Wye Agricultural College, they sometimes needed to ‘ship in’ the ladies from Nonington whenever they arranged dances.
Margaret then taught P.E. in several local schools, including Tunbridge Wells Grammar and the New Beacon. She counted Timothy Lawrence (aka Mr Princess Anne) as one of her more famous tennis pupils.
Following some volunteer swimming teaching at Dorton House School for the Blind, and movement and dance to children with learning and physical disabilities, Margaret went on to become one of the first Teacher Advisers for Children with Special Needs. A role she devised
(Continued on page 36)
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herself. She loved this position, being very hands-on and involved with the students, teachers and families. She worked in schools and colleges all over Kent. This led to her eventually becoming a school’s inspector, and then in 1996 she embarked on her first University degree course, that of Master of Education in Special Educational Needs as a student of Westminster College, University of Oxford. She was 62 when she completed it.
Retiring after her long and devoted career, she and Jim turned their hands to gardening and opening the huge garden at Sotts Hole Cottage to the public for charitable causes as part of the National Gardens Scheme. Famously baking all those cakes for each opening, Margaret was often found in the early hours surrounded by flour, sugar and cake tins but ultimately producing around 25 - 30 cakes each time; each of her many Mary Berry books still bear the evidence. Margaret knew how to serve very large slices, which was very popular with the visitors, but whilst she enjoyed the baking she mostly loved to see everyone enjoying the garden and teas and to have a good chat with the helpers and visitors while a dog or two followed faithfully by her side. The teas alone would regularly bring in more than £500 each time.
Margaret was well known to many people in the area because of her dogs. She walked them twice a day often along Piggy Path or around the farm field at the back of Platt. Or up Basted Lane, around Crouch or along to the Napps on Long Mill Lane, all the while enjoying the chance to stop and talk to all the people, and dogs, she met on the way. She knew so many people and you knew her. She was always one of the first to welcome people new to the neighbourhood. Of course, she was also the main person who bullied Jim into submitting his Village News articles (sort of) on time and kept an editorial oversight about whether they were entirely suitable.
She and Jim moved to Roman Court in Borough Green in April 2018 when the Cottage and garden became too much. They were welcomed into the community there, with Margaret enjoying the many social activities, and suggesting frequently that as a trained professional she could possibly run the exercise classes. She was less keen to go to them though and had to be persuaded sometimes!
The last event mum attended, on 1st February, was the Consecration of St Joseph’s Catholic Church by the Archbishop of Southwark followed by a
(Continued from page 35)
(Continued on page 37)
Philippa, Margaret, Jim Vinson and the dogs!
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lovely celebration tea with fellow parishioners; she was admitted to hospital later the same day.
Margaret’s funeral took place on the 14th April, a clear sunny day when the blossom was at its finest. What could have been such a difficult day actually turned into something wonderful. Unfortunately, because of the lock-down restrictions we were unable to arrange a full funeral mass for Margaret at St Joseph’s, but we arranged for her funeral cortege to start in the church’s grounds. This also meant that some of her friends and fellow parishioners could come to pay their respects in the place she loved.
As we, her family, drove through the village behind the hearse (in our own cars to which we'd tied purple ribbons and put flowers on the dashboard) we saw all the people who had come to stand outside their houses to pay their respects. The procession passed down Crouch Lane stopping outside the family home that mum and dad had shared for so many years. The little winding lanes and hamlets where mum would walk her precious dogs were filled with people paying tribute to her (while all keeping to the distancing guidelines). And there were so many dogs.
She would have loved to see everyone out in the sunshine showing how much they loved and respected her. It was tricky at times to drive but it made us so happy – although a sad day, many tears of joy were also shed. We had a small gathering at the Crematorium but that too was perfect, as we know that there will be a time when we can fully celebrate her life and hold a fitting ceremony.
Obviously, there were many people who couldn’t have come out that day but were all so touched by everyone's kindness and all the messages of condolence, with many stories of how she had shared important times with you.
In many ways this was a perfect way to say goodbye to such a beautiful, kind and wonderful lady.
A memorial page with charity donations suggestions is available online at https://margaretvinson.muchloved.com or messages to the family can be left with Mary Ringham, 12 St Mary's Close, Platt or CJ Bromelow, The Coach House, Crouch, or sent to [email protected] or [email protected].
Donations should you wish can be made in Margaret’s memory to The Blue Cross, Crossroads Care Kent, Heart of Kent Hospice or any other of the other suggestions on the website.
(Continued from page 36)
Tulips in the garden at Sotts Hole cottage
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Page 39
SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE
VILLAGE NEWS DIARY – FUTURE DATES, NO DETAILS
Here is a list of village diary dates already arranged for the months ahead. Do let me have any dates where events are already planned, to avoid clashes occurring – just dates, event and contact number, even if they are provisional. Please indicate whether the date is firm or not. I will update this diary monthly. * denotes information elsewhere in this magazine. Ed.
Sadly events before those below will not now happen.
October
10th Saturday Barn Dance – MH
November
21st Saturday Christmas Fair in church, 11.00-14.30
2021
March
20th Saturday Concert by Vigo Singers
Page 40
PARISH NOTICE BOARD
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Page 41
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Call John Lidlow on 01732 885521 or 07702 625062
PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLANS 24 hour service
ST MARY’S PLATT, WROTHAM HEATH, COMP, CROUCH, BASTED MILL AND THE OLD SAWMILL
01732 780600
43 Western Road, Borough Green, TN15 8AL
www.welhamjones.co.uk
An Independent Family Owned Company
WELHAM JONES Funeral Directors & Monumental Masons
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Index to Contents
Bedding Plant Sale 26
Bible Study Course 29
BG Med. Practice—Prescriptions
29
Bulky Refuse 22
Cancelled Events 14
Church Notes 8
Copy and Collating Dates 2
Coronavirus symptom tracker 34
Diary for May 8
Flag Days 5
For Younger Readers 28
From the Editor 10
From the Vicar 7
From Your County Councillor 22
From Your MP 31
Future Dates 29
Harpwood Newsletter 24
Light up the Tower 13
Margaret Vinson RIP 35
Memorial Hall News 27
Mission Giving 11
Neighbourhood Prayers 19
Neighbourhood Watch 43
Our Crazy Weather 27
Platt Society 34
Platt Stitchers 33
Prayer Diary for May 15
T & Malling Ramblers 23
VE Day 17
Village Jottings 21
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH The St Mary’s Platt Neighbourhood Watch Facebook page is available at https://www.facebook.com/stmarysplattnhw/
We are pleased to report the number of people following the page grows weekly, but we are keen to spread the message further.
Please do like the page, share information and most importantly, to help keep the content relevant, please do give us any information to raise awareness about local crime prevention and community safety.
The page is managed by the Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators.
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