VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Congratulations to our community warden Paul Robertson for achieving runner-up status in the National Council Worker of the Year Award, community engagement section. Paul would like to thank everyone who voted for him in a close contest.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Players are looking for adults and children to get involved in their latest production of Lionel Bart’s musical Blitz. This musical is based on the bombings during 1940’s London but is not a sad piece but very uplifting and fun. It’s a large cast so lots of bodies are needed . If you would like to take a stage role, or help behind the scenes, contact their director Jan Snook 01959 523501. Rehearsals start at the end of July and performances are on November 11, 12 and 13.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
If you run a B&B then the Bookings Secretary of the Otford Village Memorial Hall would like to hear from you. Email ovmh.secretary@otford.net with your name, address, telephone number and an idea of your charges. Hirers of the hall often ask if this facility exists in Otford and, currently, have to be directed to the nearest B&B in Seal.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Can you paint? Would you like to paint a picture in Hardelot if so Sunday August 15 is a day for Artists in the Street in Hardelot, France. Jane Lawrey can discuss transport and accommodation and she can be contacted via the Parish Office 01959 524808 or otfordpc@btinternet.com. There are various activities available in Hardelot between now and September with full details via the Parish Office.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Over 60’s Club would like to thank the kind benefactor who has donated a collapsible wheelchair which will be kept in the Memorial Hall and be used for transporting any members with walking difficulties from the car park into the hall for lunch. Your generosity is much appreciated.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Despite the threat of rain, the inaugural Otford Health Walk was well-supported and enjoyed by a large group on Monday July 12 and will continue to take place each Monday. All are welcome and there is no need to book your place, just meet at the Memorial Hall at 10.30am if you are keen to improve your general health and join a walk that lasts approximately 1 hour.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Despite the threat of rain, the inaugural Otford Health Walk was well-supported and enjoyed by a large group on Monday July 12 and will continue to take place each Monday. All are welcome and there is no need to book your place, just meet at the Memorial Hall at 10.30am if you are keen to improve your general health and join a walk that lasts approximately 1 hour.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford pond makeover DVD’s are now available from the Parish Office, Heritage Centre or from Barbara Darby 01959 523339 for £5 with a percentage of the profit going towards the Heritage centre. Our pond is at last looking beautiful again. This short DVD covers the three years of construction, delay and finishing. Follow the story of the ducks, village characters, frustration, history and the gathering and picnic following the opening and blessing of the pond by The Rev Worssam.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Sevenoaks branch of the Kent Wildlife Trust is a small group who raise awareness of wildlife and raise funds for the Sevenoaks Reserve on Bradbourne Vale Road and they are looking for three volunteers. They need a volunteer to liaise with guest speakers, make initial phone contact, arrange dates, confirm title of talk, etc, a volunteer who can create and maintain a group e-mail list, so that messages can be sent to group members, and a volunteer to create and maintain a computerised list of guest speakers, with contact details. The roles have been kept compact, so as to not take up too much time. If you would like to find out more ring or e-mail Janet Curtis 01732 454434 (no message facility), 0781 265 8837, janetnon2@hotmail.com.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Methodist Church will be holding a display of old and interesting, classic cars on Wednesday August 18 from 7.00 to 9.00pm, subject to weather. You are warmly invited to go along free of charge, look at the cars, talk to their owners and enjoy some refreshments. For more information contact Derek Baxter 01959 523687.

Pet Blessing Service 4pm on Sunday August 22 in Otford Methodist church car park and in the hall if wet. No parking will be available at the church. There will be a short Service of songs, activity and prayer which will be followed by an opportunity to be photographed with your pets, with orders taken, and a sandwich tea. You are invited to take along your pets and your family. For details call Kath Pawlett 01959 522196.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
This morning Jane Cowdry from Biddenden Vineyard will be coming to talk to Otford Oast WI about the history and production at the vineyard. There will be a tasting of white, red and rose wine, as well as cider and apple juice. As usual, a creche will be available. Do join them for what promises to be an interesting and entertaining morning - all visitors are very welcome and there is no charge for your first visit. Meetings start at 9.30am in the memorial hall.

The ever-popular Bob Ogley was the speaker at Otford Evening WI's July meeting, talking about Kent in the 19th century. It was an age of turnpike roads, public hangings at Penenden Heath, the deportation of criminals ( known as Prisoners of the Motherland (POM) and such famous people as Lady Hester Stanhope and many more. Then the coming of the railways, ending a way of life and changing so much. It was a fascinating talk and the audience could have listened to more about life in our county but it was time to judge the Best Flower competition, won by Mary Grant who took home the rose bowl for the coming year.

Their next meeting is on August 12 when the speaker Helen Allinson will talk about Life in the Workhouse. On October 2 they are holding a Boot Fair in the Memorial Hall so this is an early reminder for readers to book the date.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Afternoon WI are holding an Auction at their meeting on Tuesday August 10 to which all are welcome. The hall is open from 1.30pm for a 2pm start and this is a good opportunity for members and friends to dispose of articles of homeware etc. to a good home, and also homemade cakes will be very acceptable - in fact, anything saleable to help raise money for their funds. You may also pick up a bargain. Take your contributions with you and you can also place a reserve on articles if you wish. Entrance for visitors £2 - WI members £1. Further information from Joyce Shaw 01959 522736.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
1940’s Society meeting at 8pm tomorrow in the Memorial Hall will hear about Surviving by Magic the remarkable story of Fergus Anckorn, magician and survivor of the Thai-Burma ‘Death Railway’ presented by Monty Parkin. Few stories are as remarkable as that of local man Fergus Anckorn, now 91.

Fergus worked as a clerk at Marley Tiles before the war but was also a semi-professional magician. On being called up his regiment was sent to Singapore and after it fell to the Japanese was made a prisoner in Singapore with thousands of others. He was sent to Thailand to work on the Thai-Burma ‘death railway’.

The story of Fergus’s survival, sometimes by luck, often by sheer determination, and at times through using his magician’s skills, is told in a new book by local author Monty Parkin who will be relaying many of these experiences. Monty Parkin has published various books and booklets of oral history. His work has been supported by Kent Arts and Libraries and Kent Archaeological Society.

Admission £3, further details from Ian Bayley 01732 452505 or visit the website www.1940.co.uk

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Rainbows, Brownies and Guides would like to thank all those who saved Tesco and Sainsbury’s vouchers for them this year. They have collected enough for each unit to ‘purchase’ a dance session and also Sainsbury’s ingredient gift cards for cooking sessions. Special thanks also go to Barbara and Sue in the Parish Office for keeping the collecting boxes for us.

All three units in the village are thriving and have long waiting-to-join lists. As a result we are always looking for new adult leaders. The Guide unit needs another leader before it can expand and the Brownie waiting list is so long we could open another unit if we had more adult volunteers. If you are female, aged between 18–65 and could help please telephone Jane Woodrow-Clark on 01959 523342.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Methodist Church is running a Children’s Summer Holiday Club, for primary school children at the church halls 9.30am to 12.30pm daily between August 16 and 20 at a cost of £15 per child per week. Star Ship Discovery is their theme for the week and each morning will include games, craft, storytelling, puppet shows, Bible stories, acting and singing plus lots more fun. To register or for more information please phone Armanda on 07904 018987 or email on armanda.nick@dsl.pipex.com.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Allotments Association invite you to their Open Morning on Saturday July 24 from 9.30 -1pm. Join them for a free tour of their beautiful site, meet their expert gardeners, and discover this flourishing wildlife area. Who knows, you might even be inspired to join them in this healthy and satisfying hobby. See www.otford.info/allotments for more information.

NEWS ITEM SUBMITTED
A new health walk will be starting in Otford this month.

The walk will start on Monday 12 July at 10.30am then every following Monday at the same time. Residents attending are advised to arrive 10 minutes before the walk starts.

Otford Memorial Hall will be the starting point and the walk will last between 45 minutes to an hour and will take everyone through picturesque open areas before finishing back at the Memorial Hall. That's enough exercise to burn off approximately 160 to 200 calories.

Everyone will welcome and encouraged to walk at their own pace. Participants should dress appropriately according to the weather and wear sensible, comfortable footwear as there will be stiles along the way.

Health walks give residents the chance to explore different parts of their local area while socialising with other people and burning calories. It's the perfect step for those who would like to get fitter. There's no need to book and nothing to pay, just turn up and start walking for a healthier, happier lifestyle.

Health walks are supported by Sevenoaks District Council and funded by NHS West Kent as part of the Choosing Health agenda which aims to make healthy choices easier.

NEWS ITEM SUBMITTED
For anyone who knew Derek Pocock of Ryecroft Road, he sadly passed away last week. Anyone wishing to attend his funeral 15th July at 11.30am at Kent and Sussex Crematorium Tunbridge Wells
Lisa Griffin (friend and neighbour)

PARISH COUNCIL - JULY / AUGUST NEWSLETTER
The July / August edition of the newsletter is now on-line. Read all about: Top UK Folk Duo to play in Otford, Otford Village Fete Committee Report, Paul Robertson - Thank You, Community Warden Surgery, Police Engagement Meeting, Otford Rainbows, Brownies and Guides - Thank You, Otford Players, Local B&B?, Otford Scouts, Concerned about speeding in your area?, Otford Allotment Association, Otford Gardeners‛ Society, Twinning, Otford Methodist Church August Events, Buy It Baby! Baby & Toddler Fair and Nearly New Sale, Otford Oast WI, Otford Afternoon WI, Otford Evening WI, Picture of the Month, Hospices of Hope, Jen Chambers Skydive, In the Zone 2010, Other Summer Activities, Citizens Advice Bureau Surgery, Kent Open Weekend – Orienteering at Beacon Wood Country Park 25th July and Planning matters.

You can contact the Parish Council at The School House, 21 High Street Tel: 01959 524808, e-mail parishcouncil@otford.net with office hours 08:30 - 12:30 Mon to Fri.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Primary School Fete is being held on the school field between 12 noon and 3pm on Saturday. Admission is £1 for adults and children are admitted free. There will be the usual wide range of entertainment and stalls including BBQ and refreshments. This annual event is one for the whole family to enjoy.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
15th Sevenoaks (Otford) Scout Group will be holding their Annual General Meeting at 5.00pm on Saturday July 10 at Otford Scout Hut, Station Road, Otford. All Cubs, Scouts and families are welcome. The meeting will be followed by a barbecue.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Sevenoaks Citizens Advice Bureau hold monthly surgeries at Otford Parish Offices in the High Street on the first Tuesday of the month between 10am and 12 noon. The next surgery is on Tuesday July 6 between 10am and 12 noon. These surgeries provide the opportunity for local people to seek advice, in confidence, on financial, legal, benefits and family problems. If you would like advice then please go along and see them, no appointment is necessary. If you are unable to attend a surgery then the CAB can be contacted on 01732 457958.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Methodist Church is running a Children’s Summer Holiday Club, for primary school children at the church halls 9.30am to 12.30pm daily between August 16 and 20 at a cost of £15 per child per week. Star Ship Discovery is their theme for the week and each morning will include games, craft, storytelling, puppet shows, Bible stories, acting and singing plus lots more fun. To register or for more information please phone Armanda on 07904 018987 or email on armanda.nick@dsl.pipex.com.

The church would also like to invite you to A Good Read Cafe Evening in the church hall on Sunday July 4. The evening starts at 6.30pm and will include book reviews and discussion, tea, coffee and cakes. There is no entrance charge and further details are available from Sue Ward on 01689 869081.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Hospices of Hope are holding Round Two of their Quiz at 7.30pm on Friday July 16 in the High Street Tearooms. Tickets cost £12 per person to include a scrumptious supper and quiz. Contact Wendy at Hospices of Hope on 01959 525110 wendy@hospicesofhope.co.uk or purchase tickets from the tearoom.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
St Bartholomew's Church continue to raise funds to save the church tower. The 12th century tower is an icon of the village but is in need of substantial renovation. The problems date back to the 1930’s when the old-style render on the outside of the tower was replaced with hard modern impermeable cement with the result that some of the render has now fallen off and small amounts have also been removed for safety reasons. You can help by agreeing to donate £10 per month for two years, or a single payment of £240 although larger or smaller donations will also be most welcome. For further information see their website www.StBartholomews.co.uk, email st.bartholomews@otford.net or ring the church office 01959 523185.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford's Joy Watt holds weekly evening exercise and body conditioning classes at both Dunton Green and Farningham as well as offering personal training supporting active living and life style change decisions. For more details ring 01959 525364.

VILLAGE REPORT - KAY DRAKE 522727
Otford Parish Council would like to hear from anyone interested in the Otford-Hardelot Twinning (between Boulogne and Le Touquet). Would you like to join a group going to Hardelot as an introduction to Twinning on any of the following dates Tuesdays July 6 July & August 17 for easy themed walks in the Hardelot area, Wednesday July14 French National Holiday, Sunday July 18 An artist's day out in Hardelot, Sunday August 15 An artist's day out in Hardelot, Saturday September 4 An opportunity to run 1,2 or 10 kilometres in Hardelot (5-9 year olds, 9-14 year olds, 14 and above, including adults and Friday September 17 A day out in France. Please contact Jane Lawrey at the Parish Office 01959 524808 for further details.