KYN update August 2023

 Welcome to this week's Know Your Neighbours Update.

Hopefully, a few items this week to inspire a little interest for some, but I thought I'd use this space this week to give another shout of thanks to those Seal Yarnbombers (the knitting and crocheting group) to congratulate them on. not only setting up the beautiful Teddy Bears' Picnic Post Box Topper, but making it durable enough to withstand all the weather conditions we have coped with throughout July and most of this month so far! Fantastic job team, and we all look forward to see what Chris and her merry crew have up their sleeves for our next display!

TOMORROW! - SEAL OVER 60's - An Afternoon of Music and Tea -A Great Afternoon of Entertainment

Seal Village Hall on Saturday August 12th at 2.30 - Come along and see local singer MISS VINTAGE.

The tickets will be £6 to include a delicious afternoon tea.

Please book your tickets with Chris - 07759 808814.

THE NO 6 BUS IS BACK

Thank you to Angie Hall, who brought this to our attention. She has provided me with photographs of the timetables, but I am unable to reproduce them here. If you can't get to the website or bus stop, to see the timetables, please get in touch and I will forward to you. For example, it looks like buses leave Seal High Street for Sevenoaks Bus Station, Mondays to Fridays  at 39 minutes past the hour in the mornings,(9.39 onwards), so this is a very helpful addition to our service.

RETURN OF THE CHURCH ANIMAL BLESSING SERVICE - SUNDAY SEPT 10th at 3pm

AN ANIMAL BLESSING SERVICE  will be held on Sunday September 10th at 3pm in Seal Churchyard, or inside the Church building if wet.  Bring along your pets,on leads or  in suitable containers, if they are happy to be out and about with others!, or a photo of your pet if that is easier, and join us for a simple service of blessing for them and all the creatures we share the world with. More details later.

There will be the opportunity at this event, to purchase cakes, small gifts and homemade animal treats to raise funds for the church.There may also be some Eco Church activities available - more info nearer the time.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS IN OUR CHURCH? COME AND LEARN MORE ON SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 16th

There will be a free guided tour of Seal's stained glass windows on Saturday September 16th. Learn about Seal Church's fine Victorian stained glass, the stories it tells, the people who made it, donated it and are memorialized in it. This is an event which is part of the "Heritage Open Days" scheme. Tours at 11 am and 4pm, lasting about an hour. Please make sure you book your place, as numbers are limited. Email sealpandp@gmail.com .

SEAL TIDDLERS

There will be no Tiddlers during the school holidays, but will be back from Monday September 6thh.

TALKING VILLAGE

Our last Monday afternoon session for a while will take place this Monday (14th August).There will be no Talking Village at Deniz's on Monday August 21st, Monday August 28th or Monday September 4th. Erman and his wonderful team will be taking a well earned break! The library will still be hosting Talking Village on Saturday August 5th and September 2nd between 10.15-11.15.

You are also welcome to join the members of Friday Group at the Church Hall between 10.30-12.30 each Friday morning, for refreshments and a chat .

KENT COUNTRY PARKS SUMMER EVENTS.

Kent Country Parks have some fantastic events lined up for the summer holidays, and will suit young people of all ages, including Bat Walks, Den Building, Pond Dipping, Campfire Storytimes, Animal Encounters and Forest School Fun.Some of these are available at our most local, Lullingstone Park in Eynsford, and Trosley in Meopham. Do look at the KCC website to book your activities.

100 CLUB REMINDER

If you have been in touch to join the 100 Club, please remember to let me know when you have set up your standing order so that you can be entered into the August draw. We wouldn't want to miss you out if you have paid! marionjgilchrist@gmail.com 

We have had several people showing an interest in joining the 100 Club this month, which is great and we welcome them with open arms. Of course, this fund helps to light the village centre at Christmas, along with other areas in the village.The fund also finances other community projects, and is an invaluable way of keeping the balance afloat. However, we do now have to ask anybody in the scheme, to set up monthly standing orders, so that our team can keep on top of who is in the draw. Most participants find this easier for their own admin as well, so maybe win win!

SEAL DANCE FOR FUN FOR OVER 50s
 Luci has some spaces at this very popular weekly activity, on Tuesday mornings, 10.30 - 11.30  at Seal Village Hall.  It is pay as you go, so you literally only have to pay for the sessions you attend. Contact Luci 07748 008431 or lucinapleton@googlemail.com

HEVER FESTIVAL THEATRE
Alison, who lives in Seal, is the PR Manager for Hever Festival Theatre. They have a great programme lined up between May and August of this year, so please look at their website

 - www.heverfestival.co.uk to find that event/show, that will delight you this summer. A brilliant setting, and not too far to travel, for that special evening.


FINALLY
If you are planning any event or activity in Seal and would like to spread the word, please contact marionjgilchrist@gmail.com and I will add your news to the newsletter.

.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................


REGULAR VILLAGE ACTIVITIES AND INFO (This section is repeated every week, so please feel free to skip if you don't need it this week).

TALKING VILLAGE
Monday afternoons between 2pm and 3.30 in Deniz's on the High Street. Buy a cup of tea or coffee and join us on the Talking Village table, for a chat and to make new friends, or catch up with old ones!

Saturdays - First Saturday of each month in Seal Library from 10.15am-11.15am. Join us for a coffee whilst out browsing for your library books.
At both these venues, there will always be two hosts to welcome you, and we look forward to meeting with you and getting to know each other better.

FRIDAY GROUP
Meets each Friday morning in the Church Hall between 10.30 and 12.30   Coffee, chat, by all means, bring your crafting with you but mostly, enjoy the company.

MESSY CHURCH

Aug no Messy Church
Sept 17th
Oct 15th
Nov 19th

SEAL TIDDLERS
 In Seal Church Hall £2 per session pre schoolers and parents/Carers Monday mornings 9.30-11.30 tea drinks snacks for children art activities singing. Term time only.

JESSIE'S YOGITRIBE
Seal Village Hall Saturday mornings plus much more - see www.yogitribe.com or call Jess 07976 522726

QIGONG IN SEAL
Seal Village Hall Wednesdays 7pm and Fridays 9.15am. www.bewellwithannabel.co.uk or 07784 181151

SEAL ALLOTMENTS
Please contact sealvillageallotments@gmail.com

SEAL CHURCH CHOIRS

Adult and junior choirs looking for new members - practice Wednesday evenings -sealpandp@gmail.com


SEAL CHURCH BELLRINGERS

Have you ever had the urge to ring the church bells? If you are interested, we are always looking for new ringers, so please contact Paul Thompson paul.h.thompson@hotmail.co.uk


SEAL OVER 60s

2nd Saturday of each month 2.30-4pm.Seal Village Hall. £4 per head, for a delicious tea, interesting speakers and great company. Call Chris 01732 763585 or 07759 808814


.
SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

Thursday evenings Seal Village Hall contact Alan Davies jandadavies@hotmail.co.uk


SEAL SEQUENCE DANCING -

Village Hall Tuesdays 8pm -10pm contact awatts@talktalk.net


SEAL SCOUTS, CUBS  AND BEAVERS.

Please contact 9thgslsevenoaks.scouts.org.uk for current information.


DANCE FOR FUN FOR OVER 50's
- Village Hall - Tuesday mornings -10.30am - contact Luci 07748 008431.


SEAL LIBRARY-

Opening hours - Tuedays 2-5pm, Thursdays 10am - 1pm, Fridays 10am - 3pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm.
Thursdays -Derek - the IT Guru/Buddy, is available for appointments on Thursday mornings from 10.15. If you would like some help with your computer skills, please book an appointment through the library.
Fridays 10.30-11am  Story Time with Jenni  
Book Club first Tuesday of each month 2.30-3.30
Tea Set - Fourth Tuesday of each month - 2.30-3.45 - An interesting speaker at each session, with tea, cakes and great company!
Free Drop-in Crafts for children -  first Saturday of each month.


CHURCH HALL BOOKINGS - Maggie Fox - 01732 762840
VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS - Gerry Froggat - 01959 522545

Know Your Neighbours update: July 2023

 Welcome to this week's Know Your Neighbours Update.

We are heading closer to that time where the schools, colleges and unis all break up, and, and our routine goes out of the window for a few weeks. In the meantime, life goes on, and to prove it, we held our July 100 Club Draw this morning at Friday Group.

We have a 2 new members of the pack, so next month we should be be drawing from 68 numbers, giving us a 1st prize of £100 and 2nd prize of £70. This puts a healthy £170 in the Seal Village Fund. If you wish to join this scheme, it means setting up a monthly standing order for £5 per number, and registering with me. If you are interested, please email me at marionjgilchrist@gmail.com, and I will send the joining instructions. This month, we drew from 66 numbers, so 1st prize of £100, 2nd of £65 and £165 in the fund.

FROM NOW ON, ALL MEMBERS OF THE SCHEME WILL HAVE TO PAY BY STANDING ORDER, AS WE HAVE REACHED A SITUATION WHERE WE CANNOT COPE WITH ODD PAYMENTS BEING MADE. WE DO HOPE YOU ARE OK WITH  THIS, AS IT IS QUITE A COMPLEX PROJECT TO SET UP, AND MAINTAINING THE SYSTEM ALSO TAKES A LOT OF PEOPLES' TIME. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING. 

The Seal Village Fund, finances such village projects as lighting the centre of the village at Christmas, other special village events, as and when they occur, and awards small amounts to village organisations to fund specific projects which have to be applied for at our AGMs in March of each year.

This month's winners are:-

1st prize no 50 Georgina Taylor

2nd prize no 12 - Annie Lewis (A lucky streak going on here!).

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH.

This week, I have included the Kent County Council newsletter. I won't do this regularly, but there did appear to be quite a few issues this week which may be of interest. If you are interested in receiving their regular updates, go to the KCC website and sign up for the residents' e-newsletter.

SEAL VILLAGE HALL

You may have seen the appeal for help to keep

our Village Hall open and thriving.

For several years now, only 2 gentlemen have been running this facility, with no proper committee to speak of.

We believe that as a community, we still need a hub in the centre of the village, to accommodate village organisations as well as activities run by local people to enhance the wellbeing of our community.

Thankfully, there has been some response to the notice outside the hall, but to ensure there is a well run, usable, popular hub in our village in the future, we need to see a good group of people willing to put themselves forward to help with this.

If enough people were to do a bit, this would not be an arduous task, and who knows?? You may make new friends and enjoy the challenge!

If you could spare just a little time, say an hour or two each month, please contact me marionjgilchrist@gmail.com and together with the current hall team, we will get a date to meet up to move ideas forward.  

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.

NEWS FROM SEAL LIBRARY

We were sorry to hear that our lovely librarian, Jillian Marsh, has left the post. She will be greatly missed, as in a relatively short time with us, she has done so much to promote community in her role.She was always welcoming and positive, and worked so well to introduce new neighbours to our ever expanding group. We wish her well for her future.

WEST KENT RURAL GRANTS  -FUNDED BY THE RURAL ENGLAND PROSPERITY FUND

Up to £25,000 capital only support for rural businesses and communities. Now open for applications - DEADLINE TUESDAY AUGUST 15TH.

Visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/WestKentRuralGrants.

CONTACT ruralgrants@sevenoaks.gov.uk

OTFORD PATIENTS' PARTICIPATION GROUP

Otford Patient Participation Group

June 2023- Newsflash

24 HOUR BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORS

A number of the Blood Pressure monitors have been loaned out by OMP to patients. However, the practice have not yet received them back.
Some of these monitors were funded by the PPG to reduce the need for patients to go to Pembury.
Could we please ask patients to return them to Otford Medical Practice if they have them at home.

ARE YOUR PATIENT CONTACTDETAILS UP TO DATE?

As OMP invest in new technology to improve access to appointments, it’s vital that the surgery have your contact details to call you back or let you know
when test results are back.
Please check with the practice that your mobile, landline and email address is accurate, so that they can contact you

A LITTLE LOCAL TRIVIA

Amidst the conversations this morning, the question arose of why our Kent insignia is of a white horse.

So - here is what Google has to say.

'The white horse of Kent is the old symbol for the Jutish Kingdom of Kent, dating from the 6th-8th century. The white horse relates to the emlem of Horsa, brother of Hengest, who, according to legend, defeated the King Vortigern near Aylesford.

NEWS FROM KENT COUNTY COUNCIL

Applications are now open to apply for the KCC Travel Saver and 16+ Travel Saver for your child's transport in September 2023. The KCC Travel Saver is a bus pass that can save parents and pupils up to 50% on the cost of travel to and from school and college. The passes are available for any resident of Kent (whose household pays Council Tax to a Kent district or borough council for Kent County Council services). To apply for a KCC Travel Saver your child must be: at school in years 7 to 11, whether they go to school in or outside of Kent. To apply for a KCC 16+ Travel Saver your child must be: 16 to 19 years old and in academic years 12 to 14 (to be eligible your date of birth must be between 1 September 2005 and 31 August 2007) attending a participating school, college, work, learning provider or apprenticeship provider. For most, these passes will save you around 50% of what you might pay if you bought an annual season ticket from a bus operator.

Apply for a KCC Travel Saver or KCC 16+ Travel Saver

Summer fun at Kent Country Parks

Kent Country Parks have some fantastic events lined up throughout the summer suitable for all ages.  Including: Become River Rangers creating a model raft and explore the stream, available at Brockhill and Lullingstone. Discover our woodland fairies and elves at Brockhill and Lullingstone. Enjoy some Campfire Stories such as The Gruffalo and Percy the Park Keeper at Brockhill. Grab your favourite teddy and join our Teddy Bears Hunt at Shorne and our Teddy Bear Party at Lullingstone. Go on an adventure at Trosley to find the perfect stick and make your own Stickman. Always very popular, our animal handling events available at Brockhill, Manor Park, Lullingstone, Shorne Woods and Trosley. For budding scientists take part in some crazy Fizz Pop experiments at Lullingstone and Shorne Woods. Visit Magical Trosley where you can make your own magic wand and listen to a spellbinding story. Join us at dusk for a guided Bat Walk, available at Lullingstone and Teston Bridge. Don’t miss our Shorne Woods Fun Day where you can take part in lots of activities throughout the day. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook!

See what adventures you can have at our Kent Country Parks

Tell us your thoughts on transport in Kent

We would like to hear your views on our emerging Local Transport Plan. Your feedback will help us to understand the transport challenges faced in Kent and ensure our ambition for the future of Kent’s transport network is stretching but realistic, focusing on the right outcomes and objectives to make journeys better within our county whilst supporting the delivery of net zero by 2050. We must develop policies for the promotion and encouragement of safe, integrated, efficient and economic transport. Your feedback will help us to develop proposals for how and where in Kent we should focus on improving transport.

Tell us your views on our emerging Local Transport Plan

Take part in the Summer Reading Challenge

The Reading Agency and libraries are excited to introduce this year’s Summer Reading Challenge, Ready, Set, Read! Every year we launch the free Summer Reading Challenge, produced by The Reading Agency, for children aged 4 to 11 years. This year, join our superstar team made up of six young friends: Naveen, Naomi, Noah, Sophia, Ollie and Alesha and their animal mascots as they weave their way through a summer obstacle course. Children can visit the library to take part, or visit the Summer Reading Challenge website to take part digitally. Or why not attend an events across one of our libraries during the Summer Reading Challenge.

Get Ready, Set Read! Take part in the Summer Reading challenge!

Are you interested in fostering?

If you're interested in fostering a child, why not attend one of our information events? Our information events are a great way to find out more about what's involved in fostering children.

Hear from our foster carers, supported homes hosts and social workers who will be available to answer any questions you have. If you live in Kent and think you have what it takes to change a child’s future or support a young person, please join one of our online events to find out more.

Attend a fostering information event near you

Advice on how to make your home more efficient

Are you looking for expert advice on making your home more sustainable? We, alongside other local authorities in the area, are offering free in-person events from experts from the University of Greenwich across the county in July. The experts will provide independent information on; insulation, building fabric, heating systems, smart buildings, self-generation and much more

Attend a free in-person event

We want your views on inclusive education

We are keen to understand more about your child’s experience of their school. Why not take part in our parent survey to tell us your views so we can identify trends and take steps to make improvements? Your views will not be shared with your child's school.

Read our SEND inclusion statement and take part in the survey

Do you know your score?

Many people don't know how much they drink and how it might be affecting their health, work and relationships. Do you find yourself having one or two alcoholic drinks after work? Are you drinking more regularly at home and worried it might be having an impact?

Take the Know Your Score quiz and learn how to limit your drinking

National Highways and Transport survey 2023-24

We have been asked by the National Highways and Transport Network to get your views on what you think of transport and highways services in your area. There are six independent surveys in total - feel free to take one or all of them. Each survey will only take a few minutes of your time.

Find out more the National Highways and Transportation survey

Join our Environment & Circular Economy team

Are you ready to start the most meaningful work of your life?   Kent, The Garden of England, is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, coastline and wildlife. This diverse natural environment is vital for the livelihoods, health and quality of life of the millions of people that choose to live, work or visit Kent. We are facing increasing pressures as a result of the climate emergency and so our work to protect and enhance our unique natural spaces and vibrant communities has never been more urgent.

We are investing in Kent’s future by expanding our Environment and Circular Economy division to tackle these challenges and explore opportunities to develop our green economy. We are looking for diverse, innovative and driven people, to represent our varied communities and catalyse the action needed to meet our ambitious environmental aims.   We are stronger together and we want you to thrive in your new role. Our inclusive and flexible approach and dedicated and supportive colleagues will support you to do your best work yet.

Find out more about our roles and apply today

KCC are warning of reports of various scams:-

Fake emails saying you have undelivered bank or credit cards

Cold callers stating they are staying in a nearby AirBnB trying to get your wifi code

Fake letters threatening court action after you have purchased an item.from EBay

There is also news of Asda recalls on some baby/toddler sleep bags. 

Please click on the link below to see what KCC is telling us about current scams. Have a read and stay ahead of the scammers!

https://mailchi.mp/kent.gov.uk/scam-alerts-6132542?e=455f3a8369




SEAL DANCE FOR FUN FOR OVER 50s

Luci has some spaces at this very popular weekly activity, on Tuesday mornings, 10.30 - 11.30  at Seal Village Hall.  It is pay as you go, so you literally only have to pay for the sessions you attend. Contact Luci 07748 008431 or lucinapleton@googlemail.com

NEW U3A IN BOROUGH GREEN AND WROTHAM

I know many people from Seal, belong to the Sevenoaks U3A. This organisation is now open to all people no longer in full time employment, providing a wide range of opportunities to come together, to learn for fun. This is a nation-wide organisation and there are many different areas of interest on offer.Do look at their website u3a.org.uk

The Launch of a new u3a at Borough Green & Wrotham will take place at the BG Village Hall, High Street, Borough Green TN15 8BJ

on Monday 10th July at 2.30pm; 

CALLING ALL KNITTERS AND CROCHETERS

So, now we have seen what some of the village talent can achieve, by way of our magnificent pillar box topper, Chris is making a request - well in advance - for anybody to come forward, to

 make as many poppies as they possibly can please. She says the more the merrier, as we will be needing an awful lot of this this November, so if you get started now, we will be in with a

 chance of receiving sufficient. I believe these will be used on the pillar box, and to decorate our church for Remembrance Sunday too. Chris says, you can use any pattern you can find - always

 good to have some diversity - but abundance is the keyword. Sounds like this will be another terrific show.



SEAL ECO CHURCH


St Peter and Paul's  Church Seal, is now a registered Eco Church, working towards a bronze award at this time of accelerating climate change and species loss. We warmly welcome anyone

 along, with an interest in protecting nature, and caring for God's Earth. (A Rocha UK). Hope to meet you soon. Babs Bartholomew 07973 478968 and Lise Michaelides 07570 125115.

We are to become the Community Printer Ink Recycling Post with a small box currently located inside the church (to the left of the main door, and a larger box is on its way.

Old cartridges will be collected for recycling, which will also attract some money for the Church. PLEASE DO USE THIS RECYCLING SERVICE.

Babs and Lise.


Please also remember to contribute to the Loaves and Fishes Foodbank by donating food to the box at the back of church.



HEVER FESTIVAL THEATRE


Alison, who lives in Seal, is the PR Manager for Hever Festival Theatre. They have a great programme lined up between May and August of this year, so please look at their website

 - www.heverfestival.co.uk to find that event/show, that will delight you this summer. A brilliant setting, and not too far to travel, for that special evening.


FINALLY

If you are planning any event or activity in Seal and would like to spread the word, please contact marionjgilchrist@gmail.com and I will add your news to the newsletter.

.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................


REGULAR VILLAGE ACTIVITIES AND INFO (This section is repeated every week, so please feel free to skip if you don't need it this week).

TALKING VILLAGE
Monday afternoons between 2pm and 3.30 in Deniz's on the High Street. Buy a cup of tea or coffee and join us on the Talking Village table, for a chat and to make new friends, or catch up with old ones!

Saturdays - First Saturday of each month in Seal Library from 10.15am-11.15am. Join us for a coffee whilst out browsing for your library books.(Please note change of timing)
At both these venues, there will always be two hosts to welcome you, and we look forward to meeting with you and getting to know each other better.

FRIDAY GROUP
Meets each Friday morning in the Church Hall between 10.30 and 12.30   Coffee, chat, by all means, bring your crafting with you but mostly, enjoy the company.

MESSY CHURCH

July 16th
Aug no Messy Church
Sept 17th
Oct 15th
Nov 19th

SEAL TIDDLERS
 In Seal Church Hall £2 per session pre schoolers and parents/Carers Monday mornings 9.30-11.30 tea drinks snacks for children art activities singing.

JESSIE'S YOGITRIBE
Seal Village Hall Saturday mornings plus much more - see www.yogitribe.com or call Jess 07976 522726

QIGONG IN SEAL
Seal Village Hall Wednesdays 7pm and Fridays 9.15am. www.bewellwithannabel.co.uk or 07784 181151

SEAL ALLOTMENTS
Please contact sealvillageallotments@gmail.com

SEAL CHURCH CHOIRS

Adult and junior choirs looking for new members - practice Wednesday evenings -sealpandp@gmail.com


SEAL CHURCH BELLRINGERS

Have you ever had the urge to ring the church bells? If you are interested, we are always looking for new ringers, so please contact Paul Thompson paul.h.thompson@hotmail.co.uk


SEAL OVER 60s

2nd Saturday of each month 2.30-4pm.Seal Village Hall. £4 per head, for a delicious tea, interesting speakers and great company. Call Chris 01732 763585 or 07759 808814


.

SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB

Thursday evenings Seal Village Hall contact Alan Davies jandadavies@hotmail.co.uk


SEAL SEQUENCE DANCING -

Village Hall Tuesdays 8pm -10pm contact awatts@talktalk.net


SEAL SCOUTS, CUBS  AND BEAVERS.

Please contact 9thgslsevenoaks.scouts.org.uk for current information.


DANCE FOR FUN FOR OVER 50's
- Village Hall - Tuesday mornings -10.30am - contact Luci 07748 008431.


SEAL LIBRARY-

Opening hours - Tuedays 2-5pm, Thursdays 10am - 1pm, Fridays 10am - 3pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm.
Thursdays -Derek - the IT Guru/Buddy, is available for appointments on Thursday mornings from 10.15. If you would like some help with your computer skills, please book an appointment through the library.
Fridays 10.30-11am  Story Time with Jenni  
Book Club first Tuesday of each month 2.30-3.30
Tea Set - Fourth Tuesday of each month - 2.30-3.45 - An interesting speaker at each session, with tea, cakes and great company!
Free Drop-in Crafts for children -  first Saturday of each month.


CHURCH HALL BOOKINGS - Maggie Fox - 01732 762840
VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS - Gerry Froggat - 01959 522545

ReplyForward

KYN update Feb 26

NEWS FROM SEAL LIBRARY - CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF BEING IN SEAL 

What a terrific turnout and very warm welcome from Jillian and the volunteers, who served tea and cake to copious amounts of us in the library last Friday. Frances Fish provided a great 1973 themed quiz, which got many of us reminiscing.  There is still a small exhibition on view in the library, showing Seal Library life since 1973. Thank you to Jillian and all the volunteers (especially the long suffering Derek who remained firmly at the kitchen sink).

Jillian is also in possession of a Pandora bracelet. If you have lost one, please contact Jillian and if you can describe it accurately, you can arrange to collect it from her.

  

SAVE THE DATE - SAT MARCH 11TH 11.30-1.00 SEAL VILLAGE HALL  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOURS MEET AND GREET PLUS SEAL VILLAGE FUND AGM.

Come along, have a coffee, cake and a chat with members of local village organisations and find out what happens in our village. Also, let's have your ideas for what you would like to see in the future.

Stone Street Toad Patrol 2023

This wonderful local Toad Rescue group NEEDS YOU!!! Last year, we saved the largest number of amphians (frogs, toads and newts) in Kent, by helping them across the roads to and from their spawning pond in Stone Street, near Seal. Without our help, 4,500 animals may undoubtedly have been road traffic victims. It is incredibly rewarding and, if amphibian-friendly, fabulous fun!! We would much value more volunteers for our very friendly and well supported rota of Toad patrollers this season. We are expecting that the amphibians will be out and moving to the pond from the local woods by then end of January/early February- they cross the roads on mild, wet nights from dusk onwards. Hi Vis vests, torches, buckets and clickers are all provided.For a very interesting chat about what’s involved, including safety factors, Please contact  Colleen: colanrob@hotmail.co.uk (please note not as last week's email).

SEAL ECO CHURCH NEWS

 St P& P’s Church, Seal, is now a registered Eco Church, working towards a bronze award at this time of accelerating climate change  and species loss.  We warmly welcome anyone along with an interest in protecting nature and caring for God’s Earth (A Rocha Uk) Hope to meet you soon! Babs Bartholomew (07973 478968)  & Lise Michaelides (07570 125115). 

YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN THE ECO GROUP AT THE FOLLOWING:-

2pm Saturday 4th March ’23: St P&P’s Churchyard bird & bat boxes installation & flora & fauna survey/Churchyard tidy start. 

Cathy Hughes is kindly providing her expertise with optimal positioning of our bird boxes, kindly donated by Heather Alwyn. We need able-bodied volunteers to help with ladder climbing, please!!

10.30am Saturday 18th March ’23: Lent Eco Walk 1: a gentle stroll from St P & P's, Seal, Churchyard, down to The Well, Kemsing, finishing with coffee & cake etc at the Italian Deli (we’ll buy our own, please!), with some guided meditation on the beauty of God’s creation, & some short prayers, with Babs. 

Two further Lent/Easter Walks, to take in the Daffodil Cross on the North Downs, Kemsing, near Oak Hall, and then the Bluebell Woods and Oak Hall’s Passion Trail, are also being planned for late March and April; details to follow.

SEAL PARISH COUNCIL

Vacancy - Seal Parish Councillor
Seal Parish Council is now looking to fill three Councillor vacancies by Co-option for Seal Ward.
We would welcome Parishioners to apply preferably living inSeal Ward, but can live in other wards.
Candidates should be interested in taking an active role in the area they live and working to improve the local
community.
To find our more please contact Clare Boland on 01732
833360 or email sealparishc@outlook.com
We look forward to hearing from you!

SEAL COMMUNITY LUNCH 

Sadly, this lovely project has had to be postponed for the foreseeable future.

KENT FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE

Are you aware that you can have a free check from KFRS to ensure your home is safe?  We had a courtesy visit from them at Friday Group last week, and they chatted to us in small groups, which we all benefited from. If you have concerns about your home, or even maybe a neighbour, please contact www.kent.fire-uk.org/homesafety or call 0800 923 7000 to arrange your check. 

KENT WILDLIFE TRUST

Kent Wildlife Trust’s Sevenoaks Greensand Commons Project is running a Winter Walk Challenge! Can you please help us to raise awareness for challenge?

 

Did you know that spending time in nature can alleviate the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder? The project manages eight commons across Sevenoaks, Westerham and Seal, and we want to raise awareness of their value so that residents can take advantage of the sites for leisure, exercise and more this winter.

 

The Winter Walk Challenge pack is free and includes information on species identification, the heritage of the Commons and parking and public transport information. The pack includes maps of the sites and information on how the plant and animal species of West Kent use the Commons during winter.

 

The pack has been designed to help families to continue exploring natural spaces despite the cold weather! Spending time in nature is crucial for our physical and mental well-being. If your organisation can help us to spread the word about these free resources, our staff and volunteers would be incredibly grateful. If possible, please share the Winter Walk Challenge via your website, social media and mailing list.

 

The Winter Walk Challenge can be accessed here. Participants can download their packs digitally and physical copies are also available for collection from our Visitor’s Centre at Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks TN13 3DH.

PROPOSED CHANGES TO KCC SERVICES

Changes are being proposed to the following services:- Childrens' Centres and Youth Hubs, Public Health Services, Community Services for adults with learning disabilities and Gateways.

Learn more about proposed changes in your area and have your say. Visit kent.gov.uk/communityserviceconsultation

There will be an opportunity to visit drop-in sessions at Sevenoaks Library on Tuesday March 7th between 10am and 1pm, or Swanley Youth and Community Centre in St Mary's Road Swanley on Wednesday 8th March between 4-8pm.

If you or anybody you know uses any of these services, it would be a great idea to get along to one of these sessions, or at least look at the website, to see just how changes (and cuts) are likely to take place.

 

CORONATION CELEBRATIONS

 

We have been discussing the logistics of having one large village celebration, and in light of the lack of people keen to organise such an event, we were thinking, maybe some of you might prefer to organise a more localised celebration just for your immediate neighbours - a proper old fashioned street party - just for your street or direct neighbourhood. Of course, this will be more difficult for some roads than others, but there is always a solution to be found when getting together with others ! We will all have memories, however young or old, of royal celebrations, and it would be great to pass this legacy on to the very youngest of us.

If you feel you want to do this, and may need some support, please let us know and we will help you to facilitate this in any way we can. For instance, if you would like to get together with others who are also planning something similar, we could have a get together to discuss how we can all move the plans forward and support each other.

Again, we will have some funds to share, thanks to our 100 Club revenue, but, undoubtedly, more will be needed.

IF ANYBODY WISHES TO ORGANISE SOMETHING ON THE RECREATION GROUND, PLEASE CONTACT OUR PARISH CLERK AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AS THE PAVILION WON@T REMAIN AVAILABLE FOR LONG! sealparishc@outlook.com 

As always, it would be great to see the village decorated for this great occasion, so if you can add to the atmosphers with an appropriate scarecrow, bunting, red, white and blue floral display, etc, that would be great!

ARE YOU A KNITTER WHO ENJOYS A CHALLENGE?

We have a small group who are keen to crochet and knit a 'PILLAR BOX TOPPER' for the coronation. (For a photo of examples, please email me). If you are keen to join this little band of merry knitters, please get in touch via my email address marionjgilchrist@gmail.com

This is still at very early stages, so all ideas are also welcome. If this is successful, it would be great to see them to celebrate at other significant times.

You do not need to attend at regular times for this if that is not convenient for you. The patterns could  be taken and used at home if that suits you better.

If you are planning, or already running some activity in Seal you would like to share with us, please contact us at this email address, and we will do our best to spread the word. Also, please remember to tell any new neighbours about this group, so that we can add them to our circulation list, or they can use the FaceBook page.

Very Best Wishes,

Marion (on behalf of Know Your Neighbours).

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REGULAR ACTIVITIES AND INFO (this section is repeated weekly, so please feel free to skip if you don't need it this week)

 

Talking Village

Monday afternoons between 2pm and 3.30pm in Deniz's Coffee Shop. Buy a tea or coffee and join us on the Talking Village table for a chat and to make new friends, or meet up with old ones.

Saturdays - first Saturday of each month in Seal Library between 10.15am and 11.15am. Join us for a free coffee while browsing your library books.

There are always hosts to welcome you at each of these venues.

Friday Group

Meets Friday mornings in Seal Church Hall between 10.30 and 12.30. Coffee, chat and frequent group outings. By all means, bring your crafting along with you, but mostly, enjoy the company.

Messy Church In the Church Hall 3pm - 4,30pm EVERY 3rd Sunday of each month

Mainly for children, but all ages are welcome and all enjoy the Bible based fun and activities.

Seal Tiddlers

Seal Church Hall £2 per session for pre-schoolers and parents/carers - Monday mornings 9.30-11.30. Tea, drinks and snacks for children. Arts, activities and singing. Takes place term time only.

JESSIE'S YOGITRIBE

Seal Village Hall Saturday mornings plus much more;- see www.yogitribe.com or call Jess 07976 522726

Qigong in Seal

Seal Village Hall Wednesdays 7pm and Fridays 9.15am. www.bewellwithannabel.co.uk or 07784 181151

Seal Allotments

Contact Zoreen - zoreen gibbens@gmail.com

SEAL CHURCH CHOIRS

Adult and junior choirs looking for new members - practice Wednesday evenings -sealpandp@gmail.com

SEAL CHURCH BELLRINGERS

Have you ever had the urge to ring the church bells? If you are interested, we are always looking for new ringers, so please contact Paul Thompson paul.h.thompson@hotmail.co.uk

SEAL OVER 60s

2nd Saturday of each month 2.30-4pm.Seal Village Hall. £3 per head, for a delicious tea, interesting speakers and great company. Call Chris 01732 763585 or 07759 808814

.

SHORT MAT BOWLS CLUB Thursday evenings Seal Village Hall contact Alan Davies jandadavies@hotmail.co.uk

SEAL SEQUENCE DANCING - Village Hall Tuesdays 8pm -10pm contact awatts@talktalk.net 

SEAL SCOUTS, CUBS  AND BEAVERS.

Please contact 9thgslsevenoaks.scouts.org.uk for current information.

DANCE FOR FUN

- Village Hall - Tuesday mornings -10.30am - contact Luci 07748 008431.

SEAL LIBRARY- 

Opening hours - Tuedays 2-5pm, Thursdays 10am - 1pm, Fridays 10am - 3pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm.

Thursdays -Derek - the IT Guru/Buddy, is available for appointments on Thursday mornings from 10.15. If you would like some help with your computer skills, please book an appointment through the library.

Fridays 10.30-11am  Story Time with Jenni  

Book Club first Tuesday of each month 2.30-3.30

Tea Set - Fourth Tuesday of each month - 2.30-3.45 - An interesting speaker at each session, with tea, cakes and great company!

Free Drop-in Crafts for children -  first Saturday of each month.

CHURCH HALL BOOKINGS - Maggie Fox - 01732 762840

VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS - Gerry Froggat - 01959 522545

Wildernesse House events

GREAT FISH AND CHIPS SPECIAL

£13.95 - Noon to 8pm every Friday at The Pavilion Restaurant.

STEAK SPECIAL

Every Wednesday in March at the Pavilion Restaurant.

8oz 40 day dry aged Scottish Ribeye Steak, Parmesan and Truffle Chunky Chips.

£40 for 2 people including a glass of wine or bottles beer.

THE PAVILION OPENING TIMES

Wednesday to Saturday Noon to 8pm

Now available to book on Open Table www.opentable.co.uk

or email concierge.wh@elysianresidences.com

Tel 01732 445690

OTFORD PATIENT PARTICIPATION SURVEY

A reminder for you if you are a patient of Otford Medical Practice? 

Dear Patient,

We would like to invite you to take part in our PPG/OMP annual patient survey for the past year and welcome your honest feedback.

We have developed two versions but, please, only complete one of them. It should take no more than about 5 minutes.

1. Many of you will prefer to respond to the interactive questionnaire. Please click on the following blue link which will take you to the questionnaire: https://forms.gle/w4AVD4z2VSrHNVcX8

2. Some of you, however, will prefer to use a paper version. If so, do please print out the attachment below, complete it and leave / post to the Practice reception. We are aware that some patients do not have access to a computer or printer. If you know of any OMP patient in this position, we would be extremely grateful if you would be kind enough to print a copy to give them. Thank you.  **

The survey will stay open until the end of February.

Thank you so much for taking the time to complete the questionnaire.

Very best wishes

Chris Haslam (PPG Chair)

** If you need the paper version, please contact me at marionjgilchrist@gmail.com

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