Newsletter Archives - Goudhurst Parish Council

01/12/202401/12/2024

November 2023

As the afternoon turned to evening, a cold foggy mist gave a magical feel around the pond and leading to the church for our Goudhurst Christmas Fair. After a somewhat slow start, as more and more residents arrived, by early evening St Mary’s was nearly full for the children’s Carols, followed by the Kilndown Choir. Thank you to Alan Foster, Chairman of the Village Hall and all the others from The Club and The Friends of St Mary’s who put in such a lot of work preparing for the day. Apart from being a lovely community event, let us hope that lots of money was raised for their various projects. Also, thanks to our Clerk, Claire who organised the road closure and safety support and especially to Ed Bates, Edward Hodgskin, Caroline Richards, Andrea Kirkby, Chris Reed, Phil Kirkby and Craig Broom, who stood for much of a very cold day, in yellow jackets, to provide advice and take care of the traffic.
Last month we reflected on Who most affects our lives and how do we influence them? Parish, Borough, County Councils and Government all play a role; with Parish Council seemingly the minor player looking after what’s left. By a strange coincidence Chairmen attended the Kent Local Government Conference earlier in November, addressed by the leader of KCC and the Kent Director of Public Health. What was interesting was the apparent realisation, at County level, that everything good cannot be controlled, managed, and delivered by the centre and that the parishes are “key communities for improving health and wellbeing” with a unique role to play. Dial that forwards a bit (no money at the centre) and it is clear where that will be going – parishes may have an increasingly important role in future and a wider one. We will follow this with interest.
2023 has been a busy year. We had Borough and Parish elections in May. Alison Webster joined David Knight as our Borough Councillors. Bary Noakes, David Boniface, Guy Sutton and Oliver Tinkler stood down from our Parish Council, and we were sorry to lose Jill Andrew. We were joined by Paul Wareham and Ed Read-Cutting for Kilndown and Edward Hodgskin, Suzi Kember and Julia Kiggell for Goudhurst Ward. In the Parish Office we welcome Katrina Hoyle who joined us as Assistant Clerk in November. I would like to express my appreciation to all our parish and borough councillors. For their commitment to our parish over the last year, for the enormous amount of time, thought and effort they give, on committees and elsewhere, all unpaid and in their own time, working to make our parish a better place.
We celebrated the Coronation of King Charles III in some style in May, plus many other events during the year including our summer Fete, for which we should give huge THANK YOU to all those who gave a considerable amount of their personal time to make things happen. We are fortunate to have so many in our community willing to step forward to help make our parish a better place for us, and we continue to welcome more helpers for the future.
For 2024 GPC are preparing a Consultation with the Community for the new year to help us decide on priorities. There are a number of important initiatives under discussion and while all issues may not find consensus or the necessary resources, it is a discussion that we hope to have in the future. The new Borough warding will result in elections for all Borough councillors in May next year.
A number of residents of the parish have been asking what has happened to Goudhurst in Bloom? “The best show in town”. We would welcome help to get this up and running in 2024, and need volunteers to help organise this and of course gardens to show: large ones, small ones and special ones; there are several categories and some lovely cups to be awarded. If you are interested in helping, even in a small way, do contact the Clerk by phone or e-mail. Several hundred from our community joined the family at St Mary’s Church to celebrate the life of Anthony Farnfield, our Parish Clerk for 25 years.
Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for 2024. Let us hope and pray for health and happiness in our parish and peace returning to the world
*Don’t forget that you can have your say by joining your Parish Councillors for tea and chat before our monthly Council Meetings, every second Tuesday of the month at 7pm.
Your Parish Councillors: Craig Broom, Antony Harris, Edward Hodgskin, Suzie Kember, Julia Kiggell, Phil Kirkby, David Knight, Geoff Mason, Ed Read-Cutting, Caroline Richards, Paul Wareham, and Alison Webster. Clerk to the Council and e-newsletter Editor: Claire Reed clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> 01580 212552 or 07494 117313

Parish Council Meetings in December
Tuesday 12th in the Church Rooms 6.30pm Planning Committee <goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/planningcommittee/> View the Agenda<goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/planningcommittee/> (published 6th)
7.30pm Parish Council Meeting View the Agenda<goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/parish-council-meetings/> (published 6th) Public Session prior to the meeting at 7pm with tea and biscuits!
Tuesday 19th in the Church Rooms 7.30pm Highways Committee View the Agenda<goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/highwayscommittee/> <goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/highwayscommittee/> (published 13th)
Goudhurst Parish Council matters because many of the issues it deals with affect us personally, even when they are little things. Don’t forget that you can have your say by joining your Parish Councillors for a tea and chat before our monthly Council Meetings, every second Tuesday of the month at 7pm.
Please note the Parish Council Office will be shut from 3pm, Friday 22nd December and re-opening 9am on Tuesday 2nd January. ________________________________ Goudhurst’s Plan Bee

Geoff is a Goudhurst Parish Councillor and is passionate about helping the wildlife around our villages. He has set up a community working party ‘Wild About Goudhurst & Kilndown’ to work closely with the council to guide policy to see how we can best preserve our beautiful countryside for wildlife. Insect numbers in Kent have declined by 72% in 17 years and pollinators such as bees are vital for producing the food we eat and the very existence of the Kent countryside, our gardens and green spaces we love. Here’s his latest blog:
I was born and brought up in suburban Southwest London, our house was on the A3 Kingston By-Pass near Tolworth Tower and the night sky everywhere glowed orange from all the streetlights. After I left home I always lived in urban areas – Leicester, Croydon, Brighton, Hampton – until Cheryl and I moved to Goudhurst in 1997. On our first evening I was struck by just how dark and peaceful it was and how many stars I could see. No more towns and cities for me!
Dark Skies Dark skies however are more than just a beautiful sight for stargazers, they are also essential for the health and well-being of many wildlife species. It’s so important that we preserve them as artificial light at night can disrupt the natural rhythms of plants and animals, affecting their behaviour, reproduction and survival.
Light Pollution One of the most obvious effects of light pollution is on nocturnal animals, such as moths, bats, hedgehogs and owls. These creatures rely on darkness to hunt, feed, navigate and communicate. Bright lights can confuse, dazzle or attract them, making them vulnerable to predators, collisions or starvation. For example, moths are drawn to artificial lights, which can interfere with their mating and pollination. Bats, which feed on moths, may also suffer from reduced prey availability and increased competition. Hedgehogs, which are already endangered in the UK, may avoid well-lit areas and have less habitat to roam. Owls, which have excellent night vision, may be outcompeted by other birds that can see better under artificial light.
Light pollution can also affect diurnal animals, such as birds, insects and plants. Many birds use the sun, moon and stars to migrate and orient themselves. Artificial light can disrupt their navigation and cause them to fly off course, waste energy or collide with buildings. Some birds may also sing earlier or later than usual, which can affect their breeding success and interactions with other species. Insects, such as bees and butterflies, may also alter their activity patterns and pollination behaviour under artificial light. Plants, which depend on sunlight for photosynthesis and flowering, may also change their growth and development in response to light pollution.
The effects of light pollution can cascade through the food web and the ecosystem, with potentially serious consequences for biodiversity and human well-being. Therefore, it is important to reduce light pollution and protect dark skies for wildlife and people. Some of the ways to do this include:
* Using only the necessary amount of light for safety and security and turning off lights when not in use * Choosing warm white or amber lights, which are less attractive to insects and less disruptive to wildlife * Shielding or directing lights downwards, to avoid glare and skyglow * Enjoying and appreciating the beauty and benefits of dark skies, and inspiring others to do the sam

Winter Wonderland I’ve just been watching goldfinches feed on the teasels in our garden and yesterday I was treated to a flock of long-tailed tits with their distinctive calls on our fat ball feeders. Our resident hedgehogs have long-since hibernated and hopefully we won’t see them until the spring. Winter is a challenging season for many wildlife species, but also a fascinating time to observe and appreciate their diversity and resilience. From migration to hibernation, from adaptation to torpor, animals have different ways of coping with the cold and ice and the scarcity of food. But there’s plenty of things we can do to help.
Provide natural food Natural food sources, such as seeds, nuts, berries and fruits are rich in energy and nutrients and can help animals maintain their body temperature and fat reserves, good examples include hawthorn, rowan, holly, and crab apple<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>. We’ve loved seeing migratory birds such as fieldfares and redwings feeding in our hedges, it’s like the bird equivalent of Sainsbury’s. Ivy and holly berries are so important which is why we should leave the cutting of hedges for as long as possible. Seeds on herbaceous plants and shrubs like sunflowers, teasels and thistles<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/> are great for sparrows, finches, and nuthatches<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.
Put out fresh drinking water Animals and birds need water to drink, bathe, and preen their feathers, however, water sources can freeze over in winter. Fill a shallow dish or bird bath with clean water and change it regularly, a small ball or twig in the water will also help prevent it from freezing over<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.
Let your garden grow By leaving some areas of your garden undisturbed, you can create a natural habitat for wildlife. Leave leaf litter, twigs, and branches on the ground which can provide shelter and food for insects, worms, and small mammals, also leave dead or dying plants standing which can offer seeds, nectar, and hiding places. Think about piling up some logs, stones or bricks to create a refuge for frogs, toads and hedgehogs<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.
Break the ice on ponds Ponds are important habitats for many aquatic animals, such as fish, frogs, and dragonflies. However they can freeze over in winter preventing oxygen from entering the water. Melt a hole in the ice on your pond using a saucepan of hot water and place the saucepan on the ice until a hole is formed. Do not hit or crack the ice, as this can send shockwaves through the water that can harm the animals<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.
Provide shelter Many animals need a warm and dry place to rest, sleep, and hibernate in winter and a great way to help is by installing shelters in your garden, for example bird boxes, a hedgehog house, bat box, or a bug hotel. You can use an old flower-pot, shoe box, or plastic bottle filled with straw, hay, or leaves. Place the shelters in a quiet and sheltered spot, away from predators and direct sunlight<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.
Create a nest Some birds, such as robins, wrens, and blackbirds like to nest in winter. Help by providing them with nesting materials, such as wool, cotton, feathers, or moss. Place these in a mesh feeder, a basket, or a hanging basket, and hang them from a tree or a fence. Or leave some mud or clay in a shallow dish, which can help birds to build their nests<northamericannature.com/how-to-help-wildlife-in-winter/>.

Don’t forget hedgehogs should be hibernating so if you come across one wandering around, contact our friends at Folly Wildlife for advice.
If you’d like to get involved with our various wildlife projects around the village and join our Wild About Goudhurst & Kilndown Working Party, do drop me a line I’d love to hear from you.
For the bees and hedgehogs Geoff Mason geoff.mason@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:geoff.mason@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> Sources: Kent & Surrey Wildlife Trusts ________________________________

Special Residents’ Christmas Event at Scotney Castle – Friday 15 December, 5-8pm (last entry 7.30pm)
Visit Scotney after hours and get the full Christmas experience with a special late night opening just for residents of Goudhurst, Kilndown and Lamberhurst. See the house illuminated, enjoy glittering trees, sparkling decorations and beautiful lights, explore the Victorian mansion decorated for a 1960s’ Christmas, browse the shop for gorgeous gifts and Christmas homeware, and enjoy some tasty treats in the cosy tea-room. Admission is free and there’s no need to book parking, but please bring evidence of residency to show your eligibility. ________________________________

Old Parsonage Surgery
Patient Participation Group (PPG) Staff Changes at the Surgery: we say goodbye to Sue Monk who is retiring from her Receptionist role and thank her for all her input. Lois-lily Geal joins us as the new Receptionist and we trust she will enjoy her time as part of the team.
Vaccination Protocols: Shingles: any patient who is eligible (or thinks they may be eligible) for this vaccination should contact the Surgery for advice. MMR: the Surgery is running a catch-up campaign for this vaccination protocol and thus will be calling patients as follows: 1-5 years in November 2023 : 6-25 years in January 2024
Gardening Group: this group of PPG members and volunteers have had their last session for 2023. Their continued efforts across the year are obvious from the tidy and safe appearance of the grounds. Further planting of spring bulbs has taken place and should result in a colourful and cheerful display (not compromised by building works!) for 2024.
Old Parsonage Surgery Newsletter: in accordance with NHS guidelines the Surgery team will now be producing a regular Newsletter with the first edition (November 2023) already available. This will be distributed to all patients for whom the Surgery holds a current e-mail address. Patients are thus asked to ensure that their e-mail details are up-to-date. The Newsletter will also be available on the Surgery website. The frequency of production and how it fits alongside the regular PPG Updates (which you are now reading!) has yet to be decided.
Xmas Holiday Closures: just a reminder that the Surgery will be closed on Monday Dec 25th, Tuesday Dec 26th and Monday Jan 1st. The PPG would like to wish all patients and their families a healthy and peaceful 2024
Colin Samuell ________________________________

The Kent and Medway Business Fund (KMBF) is now accepting pre-applications for the KMBF Standard Loan and KMBF Small Business Boost.
About the KMBF Standard Loan The KMBF Standard Loan offers 0% loans between £100,000 and £600,000.
Applications are welcomed from established small and medium-sized businesses in Kent and Medway, who are looking to grow their business. Businesses looking for start-up funding can apply for a Small Business Boost.
It can help to develop new or expand existing products, services or processes. In turn it can create new jobs, deliver business growth and improve productivity.
About KMBF Small Business Boost
The KMBF Small Business Boost offers 0% interest loans between £26,000 and £99,000. Applications are welcomed from small and medium-sized businesses (SME) in Kent and Medway, who are start-ups or in the early stages of growth. Established businesses or those looking for a larger loan can apply for a KMBF Standard Loan.
A loan can help to develop new or expand existing products, services or processes. In turn, this can create jobs, drive growth, and improve productivity.
Find out more about KMBF Standard Loan <www.kent.gov.uk/business/business-loans-and-funding/kent-and-medway-business-fund/kent-and-medway-business-fund-loans>
Find out more about Small Business Boost <www.kent.gov.uk/business/business-loans-and-funding/small-business-boost-loan> ________________________________

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Be Winter Ready: make a plan for when there is a power cut
* Keep a mobile phone fully charged so you can still communicate and access the internet if you have a power cut. This will become especially important once telephone lines change to digital over the next two years because landlines will cease to work without power.
* Save these numbers to your phone: * 105, the free national power cut emergency number, * 0800 111 999, the free national gas emergency number * Keep emergency items easily accessible in the dark: * a working torch with spare batteries * warm clothes and blankets * food which doesn’t need heating * If you have a smart phone, follow your network operator, UK Power Networks, on social media so you can find local updates with ease or save their web page to your favourites on a smartphone. * If you need medical equipment that requires electricity, you should check back up equipment is in working order. * If you have extra needs, for example you are over state pension age, have physical or mental health disabilities, or young children, call UK Power Networks now on 0800 169 9970 to be added to the Priority Services Register. You will receive advance notice of scheduled power cuts and priority support in an emergency.
If the lights do go out… remember to check on neighbours who might need extra help.
PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30. If you need advice about the above or about housing and homelessness, debt, relationship breakdown, welfare benefits or anything else, get in touch with us: info@pwadvice.org<mailto:info@pwadvice.org> | 01892 838619 94 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6DP Company Limited by Guarantee: 8006468 Charity Registration No: 1147816
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Report a problem on a road or pavement
You can report non-urgent issues including:
* street light faults * potholes * drainage * traffic signal faults * overgrown vegetation (including hedges and grass)
quickly and easily to Kent Highways via their online reporting tool<www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/report-a-problem>. ________________________________

Planned Road Closures Details of all road closures, including emergency closures, can be found at: one.network/uk/kent <one.network/uk/kent> ________________________________ Kent Active Travel Consultation

Over the past month we have been meeting with parish and borough councillors across the whole of the Tunbridge Wells district. This is a new initiative to further engage with the councils embedded within their communities, to help raise any concerns to our staff and officers in our Community Safety Unit.
One particular concern we are seeing raised, is a perceived lack of reporting to Kent Police regarding incidents happening in some of these areas. We have used these meetings to highlight the importance of reporting all incidents to the police, no matter how big or small and our officers pride themselves on gathering information which can really help build a picture of an issue or ongoing complaint.
There is also sometimes a perception from these meetings that ‘nothing will be done’, and I want to offer assurances that this is most certainly not the case. For example, over the past year, there has been an increased focus on tackling anti-social behaviour in and around Tunbridge Wells, which has included enhanced patrols aimed at deterring and reducing offences and which include shop thefts, assaults, and criminal damage.
Our enforcement action has seen charge rates rise for several offences linked to anti-social behaviour. Between October 2022 and September 2023, there were 49 charges made for criminal damage, compared to 27 in the previous corresponding period – a rise of more than 80 per cent. Charges relating to offences involving the use of violence have also increased, to 230 from 204; whilst at the same time, the number of reported incidents involving the use of violence in the borough has fallen.
It is important to again highlight that information we receive regarding incidents within our communities, is often crucial to resolving residents’ concerns, deterring and solving crime, and improving people’s lives. Your support or information can help provide the missing puzzle piece which helps your local officers solve a crime. ________________________________

National Highways and Transport Survey 2023-24
This year, for the sixth year running, Kent County Council is taking part in the NHT Public Satisfaction Survey on highways and transport services. Whilst the main survey is being carried out by Ipsos, who will be sending forms to a representative sample of households, we have also opted to take part in six web-based surveys on specific issues:
* Highway maintenance * Accessibility * Walking and cycling * Public transport * Road safety * Tackling congestion
These surveys are publicly available online, and will remain open until the end of February 2024. They may be accessed via our website using this link:
National Highways and Transport Survey 2023-24 | Let’s talk Kent<letstalk.kent.gov.uk/national-highways-and-transport-2023-24>
The greater the take-up of the surveys, the more useful they will be in helping us to understand the priorities and concerns of people who live or work in Kent, so please feel welcome to complete any of the surveys which interest you, and to use your work and personal contacts to publicise them and to encourage other people to take part.

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Welcome Booklet – Have you got a new neighbour?
The Parish Council is delighted to support an initiative by some local residents who thought that it would be a good idea to put together a Welcome Booklet to give to people who move into Goudhurst, so that they feel part of the local community. It has details of health services, education, local shops, local societies etc. Also in the bag will be a leaflet with details of refuse collections, the church booklet and a gift of chocolate. This has kindly been provided by Goupie. (Goupie hand-make uniquely textured vegan friendly chocolate confectionery to an old family recipe in Goudhurst, Kent.)
If you have a new neighbour please contact one of the team below who will provide you with a bag to take round or they can deliver direct to your new neighbour if you prefer.
Chris 07952 545472; Linda 07485 727656; Sue 07905 791627 ________________________________

Help spread the word!
If you found this e-newsletter interesting and informative please encourage your friends, family and neighbours to sign up. They can do so on our website: goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/ <goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/> or by emailing the Clerk clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> <mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> [Twitter]<www.twitter.com/> [Facebook]<www.facebook.com/> [Website]<mailchimp.com/> Copyright © 2023 Goudhurst Parish Council, All rights reserved.
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01/12/202402/12/2024

November 2024

GOUDHURST PARISH & PARISH COUNCIL NEWS – NOVEMBER 2024
Issue 46
Chairman’s Update

Goudhurst Parish Council Parish Council News e-Newsletter November 2024 Goudhurst, Kilndown and Curtisden Green
After a five year covid gap The Goudhurst Parish in Bloom award returned this year. A huge thank you to all the participants and winners, thank you for making our village bloom. But there are many more with fine gardens and the gardeners’ touch who we hope will join the challenge for the silver cups and plate next summer. So it would be good to have twice as many entries in May 2025. We look forward to seeing you for Goudhurst in Bloom 2025. With Remembrance Sunday in mind, do join your friends, family and neighbours by the pond at 10.30am on Sunday 10th November for the parade up the hill to St Mary’s Church, followed by the 10.45 Remembrance Sunday service at St Mary’s, Goudhurst. In Kilndown meet by the War Memorial at Christ Church for their 10.45 service. A time to reflect, to give thanks and to pray for peace. The Goudhurst Branch of the British Legion, which supports ex-servicemen injured or on hard times, are looking to enlist support and new members. Whether or not you served in the forces in the past, all are welcome. Contact RBL secretary Ed Bates on 07799 571450 or Ed_bates@hotmail.co.uk<mailto:Ed_bates@hotmail.co.uk> We are very fortunate to have one of the most successful Pre-schools in the Borough. Every weekday during termtime, two sessions between 9 am – 3.30 pm, at the Church Rooms in the heart of the village, next to the children’s playground on Back Lane. They are normally well subscribed which is a great reflection on the team, led by Mrs Jo Galloway. But they could do with some help. So, if you have some spare time and a love of little ones 2 – 5 years, then Jo would love to hear from you (see below). They are also looking for volunteers to join the committee as a Trustee (it’s a charity). Visit their website: goudhurstvillagepreschool.co.uk<goudhurstvillagepreschool.co.uk> or phone on 01580 212777. We also have a wonderful variety of dogs in our village; small, large, friends of the family and companions. However, when passing through the gated Pre-school play area during term time, please keep your dog on the lead, keep to the south side and remember to close the gates at either end. Many thanks! Exciting news …. There were two redundant phone boxes by the Plane, one already converted to contain a defibrillator, and the other old BT box has now been fitted with shelving to convert it to a Book Exchange. If you have surplus books you no longer want, just leave them in the Book Exchange. If you want to find a good read you may find it there; borrow it, keep it or lend it to a friend and if you are able, replace it with another. Happy reading. Events Calendar easily located on our Parish Council website (Click Goudhurst Parish Council Website > Select Menu Option > Calendar-Events > scroll by month or regular event > then dates and click on the item). Note, upcoming in November:
Kilndown Music Festival; Concert with Choir at Christ Church, 7pm on Saturday 23rd November (tickets 07909 946195); and organ Recital by Dr Richard Robertson on Sunday 24th at 3pm. Goudhurst Christmas Fair will be in the Church, around the Plain and village club during the afternoon and early evening Saturday 30th November. All welcome for fun, food and entertainment with neighbours and friends.
Council were pleased to receive applications from two excellent candidates for the vacant Parish Councillor position. We are delighted to confirm that Peter Rolington was duly elected. Peter has been a resident of Goudhurst for over 25 years, is a former Goudhurst Parish councillor and vice Chairman, so welcome back. Peter is Treasurer of the Goudhurst branch of the Royal British Legion and should be familiar to many manning the red poppy tent on the Plain since the annual Poppy Appeal got restarted, post covid. Peter has joined our Planning, Highways and Amenity Committees.
Your Parish Councillors: Craig Broom, Antony Harris (Chairman), Edward Hodgskin, Suzie Kember, Phil Kirkby, David Knight, Geoff Mason, Ed Reed-Cutting, Caroline Richards, Peter Rolington, Paul Wareham, and Alison Webster. Clerk to the Council: Katrina Hoyle. 01580 212552 or 07494 117313 clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk>
November meetings Planning Tuesday 12 November at 6.30 pm Parish Council Tuesday 12 November at 7.00 pm Burial Tuesday 19 November 1.00 pm Finance Tuesday 19 November at 7.00 pm Planning Tuesday 26 November at 6.30 pm Amenities Tuesday 26 November at 7.30 pm Goudhurst Parish Council moved into its new (17th century) office in the High Street at the end of September. Our Clerk Katrina and team welcome friendly residents, normally Monday to Thursday between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm, other times by arrangement.
Clerk to the Council: Katrina Hoyle. 01580 212552 or 07494 117313 clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk>

Goudhurst Pre-School. Winners of the best non-commercial display.
NEW OFFICE ADDRESS
The Parish Council have moved and the new address is:- 3 Fountain House High Street Goudhurst TN17 1AL The office will be open for drop-in visits on Monday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm. Outside of these hours, appointments can be made. We look forward to meeting you all and hope to help facilitate improvements and communication.
On 30th November the Parish Council Office will be open from 1pm to 6pm. Residents are invited to drop in and see the new office and take the opportunity to chat with staff and Councillors.

Goudhurst’s Plan Bee
Goudhurst’s Plan Bee
November’s sky is chill and drear, November’s leaf is red and sear – Sir Walter Scott
During November, autumn gently ebbs away as the last of the leaves fall. Towards the end of the month, much of our natural world breathes a deep sigh before their winter rest. But, before that happens, there’s still plenty of wildlife activity.
We’re approaching our coldest and darkest months of the year. The dramatic reduction in daylight hours and plummeting temperatures are clear cues for wildlife – for many mammals, it’s time to prepare their winter hibernation spots. For birds, it’s time to search for food. Not all wildlife goes dormant during the colder months – and in fact the countryside is full of wildlife in November!
Busy mammals
November is a really good time to spot mammals. Hedgehogs will be scurrying about trying to find a suitable place to hibernate. They’re particularly fond of brash or leaf piles (brash includes twigs and branches). These are some of our best habitats for wildlife. So, a reminder: please check your bonfires before lighting them. According to the 2022 State of Britain’s Hedgehogs Report<www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/news/2022/february/britains-rural-hedgehogs-see-dramatic-population-decline.html#:~:text=Analysis%20from%20The%20State%20of,for%20the%20past%20two%20decades.>, our hedgehogs have seen dramatic decline over the last two decades, so we need to do everything we can to protect them. Please leave brash or leaf piles particularly under hedgerows and they would certainly welcome regular bowls of food at night – kitten biscuits are good but not fish-based flavours. Hogs need to be at least 450g in weight to have enough fat to see them through the winter, if you see one out in daylight it’s likely to be underweight so contact your local wildlife hospital such as Folly Wildlife.
Dormice, squirrels, and voles are also busy stacking their larders for winter. Typically, they can be found around hedgerows and woodland foraging for food. If you walk along a hedgerow this month, take it slow and listen out. You might notice movement in the undergrowth – this could be a mouse or vole preparing their winter homes!
Foxes are also active this month, both in urban and rural areas. They’ll be breaking away from the safety of the family unit in search of new territories to breed. So, a walk this month (particularly during the evening) may indeed feature a bold and intrepid fox, seeking pastures new.
A dance in the sky
There’s a lot to be said about birds during November (and through winter), but starlings deserve their own section. In November, you might be lucky enough to witness one of the most stunning natural spectacles there is: a starling murmuration. These murmurations are essentially thousands and thousands of starlings flying in unison in the sky. It’s breathtaking to see; a constantly transforming mass of birds, which pulsates, shifts and changes as the starlings swoop and dive.
These murmurations occur from around November, when resident starlings are joined by their migrant counterparts from Europe. While we’re not exactly certain why they happen, it’s thought that it’s a combination of things: safety in numbers, exchanging chatter and information, and to keep warm.
Want to see a murmuration this year? Here are some tips:
* Murmurations usually occur over communal roosting sites.
* They often occur around man-made structures like piers, as well as woodland, reed beds and open countryside. Some of the UK’s nature reserves are perfect murmuration sites.
* The best time to spot a murmuration is at dusk.
* Some places in the UK are almost guaranteed spots for murmurations – but they can be extremely busy.
Winter birds
On farmland, parks and gardens, many of our more familiar birds are still flitting around. Resident blackbirds, thrushes and finches will be joined by their migratory counterparts on the lookout for hedgerow berries, nuts and seeds – and plenty of fatty food to see them through the winter.
Butterflies holding on
One or two species of butterfly can still be found in November – particularly if temperatures are fairly mild. Without a doubt the most likely one you’ll spot is the glorious and bold red admiral<butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/red-admiral>. Red admirals feed on sugary (possibly slightly fermented) fallen fruit, as well as ivy flowers – which are one of the best sources of nectar at this time of year. Look out for red admirals on farmland and open countryside – particularly where the hedgerows are bountiful and diverse.
Some British butterflies hibernate as butterflies during the winter – the comma<butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/comma>, brimstone<butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/brimstone>, small tortoiseshell<butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/small-tortoiseshell> and peacock<butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/peacock>. As such, you might get very lucky and spot one of these before they settle down for the winter – though chances are it’ll be the red admiral you see.
Rewilding
An emotive term likely to divide opinion depending on who you talk to!
But wherever you stand on the issue, it’s a startling fact that the UK is one of the world’s most nature-depleted countries, with on average about half its biodiversity left – far below the global average of 75%. It means the UK is in the bottom 10% globally for biodiversity which is a shocking statistic.
In recognition of this, Lamberhurst Community Cinema will be screening WILDING on Saturday 9 November at 7.30pm.
WILDING is a documentary and tells the true story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex which is unable to farm productively, following years of intensive agriculture. Such is the poor state of the soil, they were forced to take drastic action. They hit on the radical idea of allowing nature to take its course on the estate and the film follows the reclamation of the land by invertebrates, birds and mammals.
Whilst this is a celebration of nature rewilding a parcel of land, it demonstrates what can be done to increase biodiversity in the UK particularly if nature highways can radiate across the country.
Alongside the film, Kent Wildlife Trust will be present for a Q&A session on their recent acquisition of Furnace Farm, on the edge of Lamberhurst consisting of around 145 acres. KWT have plans to adopt some of the approaches seen in WILDING to improve biodiversity on Furnace Farm, which over time hopefully will spread deeper into surrounding countryside.
You can learn more about KWT and the work they do by visiting their website: kentwildlifetrust.org.uk<kentwildlifetrust.org.uk>
This will be a special screening, in aid equally of The Kent Wildlife Trust and the Lamberhurst War Memorial Hall.
Tickets for this special event will be £6 and can be bought online at lamberhurstcinema.org<lamberhurstcinema.org>
The usual bar will be open from 6.30pm together with a warm welcome.
For the bees and hedgehogs
Geoff Mason
geoff.s.j.mason@outlook.com<mailto:geoff.s.j.mason@outlook.com>

Sources
Lewis Townsend – A Countryside Walk in November, Campaign for the Protection of Rural England
Kent Wildlife Trust
Jenny Fox – Lamberhurst Community Cinema

KILNDOWN NEWS
GK Church Community Lunch/Cupboard/Care fund
Lunch is held every Tuesday at St. Mary’s, Goudhurst. Drop in between 11.30am – 1pm for a delicious bowl of homemade soup with bread and cheese, followed by a hot drink and something sweet. Children on school holidays are welcome too. Community Lunch is open to everyone in the Parish. There is no cost.
The Community Cupboard is available for anyone in need. Contact ali.williams@gkchurch<mailto:ali.williams@gkchurch>.org in confidence to arrange a delivery/collection. Care Fund provides financial assistance to individuals, couples or families through a grant system. ‘Phone the Church Office – 01580 211739.
Exercise! Amanda, who runs the adult ballet and tap classes at the Village Hall on a Wednesday evening would love some new members! If you are interested ‘phone Amanda on 07470 074144.
Lindsay, who runs the senior exercise classes also in the Hall, at 9.30pm on Thursday mornings would like a few more takers, to book ‘phone 07538933752.
There are other classes held in the Hall including Yoga and Pilates. Take a look on the Village Hall website or Noticeboard.
Saturday Shop at the Quarry Centre is open from 9am to 12 noon, (give or take tiny bit!)
What’s on sale?
Fresh fruit and vegetables (occasionally from Kilndown gardens) Free range eggs Rye bakery bread Preserves Deli odds & ends Milk, yoghurts, butter, cheeses Selection canned & dry goods (apparently the porridge oats are good) Loose nuts (walnuts from Kilndown) Homemade cake (sometimes) Meats from Park Farm – fresh about once a month (always some in freezer) Ecover laundry & washing up liquid, fabric conditioner, liquid hand soap (bring a bottle for a refill) Whistlefish greeting cards (stamps available)
Plants & cut flowers – as seasonally available (weather/molluscs/rabbit dependent!!) Second hand paperback books (not too dog eared)
Collection boxes for: GK Community Cupboard Used ink cartridges (QC) and postage stamps (RNIB) Balls of wool & fabrics (Quilting Group)
Available to hire: £8 per hour. Once the Shop is ‘flat packed’ there is quite a lot of space.
Raffles throughout the year Look for us on Easy Fundraising and TW Lotto.
All a bit random and possibly chaotic at times, and we apologise in advance for the whiff of embrocation!
*****NEW SHOPPERS WILL RECEIVE A 10% DISCOUNT ON THEIR FIRST PURCHASE*****

Use the The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK wide service which provides extra advice and support, including when there’s an interruption to your electricity, gas or water supply.e block’s Settings tab to change the caption position and set other styles. Please click here for more<www.thepsr.co.uk/#join-psr> information<www.thepsr.co.uk/#join-psr> ________________________________ Kilndown Village Hall
The hall is looking fresh and new once more having had the wooden floor completely sanded and re-finished over the summer. A light and airy space, perfect for all kinds of activities and gatherings large and small.
If you are looking for somewhere to hold an event please contact Evie Banfield on 07872 348155 bookings.kilndown@gmail.com<mailto:bookings.kilndown@gmail.com> or for more information go to www.kilndownvillagehall.org<www.kilndownvillagehall.org>
________________________________
What care services do local councils provide?
Kent County Council can help you stay in your own home if you have care needs. They provide meals, carers, transport, home modifications and equipment that helps with the tasks of daily living, although you’ll usually still need to pay something towards your care costs. If you have savings above £23,250 or a high income, you’ll probably have to meet the full cost yourself. If you have a disability or complex medical condition that means you have healthcare needs rather than social care needs, you might qualify for NHS funding.
Getting a local council care needs assessment Contact the social services department of KCC to ask for a care needs assessment. It’s free and it’s your legal right to have one. You shouldn’t be refused an assessment because the local council thinks your needs aren’t great enough or that you won’t qualify for financial help. There is an online form or you can call 03000 41 61 61.
KCC will identify your care needs and check that they meet a nationally agreed set of criteria. If you qualify for help, they have a legal duty to provide or arrange the services you need.
How to find out if you qualify for local council funding for care costs Either at the same time as the needs assessment or soon after, KCC will carry out a financial assessment to see if you qualify for funding if they deem your needs as eligible when assessed against national criteria.
Deciding who manages your personal care budget If you qualify for financial help, you can ask your local council to arrange the care services for you or receive direct payments from the local council and organise your care yourself. Alternatively, you can have a mixture of the two.
This information has been tailored from one of our trusted resources, Money Helper, a website run by HM Government www.moneyhelper.org.uk<www.moneyhelper.org.uk>. More information is also available on KCC’s website www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-and-health<www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-and-health>
PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30. If you need advice about consumer issues, housing and homelessness, debt, relationship breakdown, welfare benefits or anything else, get in touch with us:
If the lights do go out… remember to check on neighbours who might need extra help.
PWCAC is OPEN for face-to-face advice (appointments and drop-ins) Monday to Friday, 9:30 – 1:30. If you need advice about the above or about housing and homelessness, debt, relationship breakdown, welfare benefits or anything else, get in touch with us:
info@pwadvice.org<mailto:info@pwadvice.org> | 01892 838619 94 Commercial Road, Paddock Wood, TN12 6DP Company Limited by Guarantee: 8006468 Charity Registration No: 1147816
________________________________ Report a problem on a road or pavement
You can report non-urgent issues including:
* street light faults * potholes * drainage * traffic signal faults * overgrown vegetation (including hedges and grass)
quickly and easily to Kent Highways via their online reporting tool<www.kent.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/report-a-problem>. ________________________________ Planned Road Closures Details of all road closures, including emergency closures, can be found at: one.network/uk/kent <one.network/uk/kent> ________________________________ Welcome Booklet – Have you got a new neighbour?
A few of us who live in the village, thought that a welcome pack would be useful to people moving in. It includes an information booklet and chocolate donated by Goupie. If you have a new neighbour or are new yourself, please phone: Chris 07952 545472 | Linda 07485 727656 | Sue 07905 791627 ________________________________ Help spread the word!
If you found this e-newsletter interesting and informative please encourage your friends, family and neighbours to sign up. They can do so on our website: goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/ <goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/> or by emailing the Clerk clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> <mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> Help spread the word!
If you found this e-newsletter interesting and informative please encourage your friends, family and neighbours to sign up. They can do so on our website: goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/ <goudhurst-pc.gov.uk/e-newsletter-sign-up/> or by emailing the Clerk clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk<mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> <mailto:clerk@goudhurst-pc.gov.uk> [Twitter]<www.twitter.com/> [Facebook]<www.facebook.com/> [Website]<mailchimp.com/> Copyright © 2024 Goudhurst Parish Council, All rights reserved.

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