the whitstable imp issue 5
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Whitstable IMP APRIL 2009TRANSCRIPT
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ISSUE 5 APRIL 2009
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THE IMP TEAM
Welcome to the April issue of The Whitstable IMP!
EDITORChristina Birkett Christina started working in Media twelve years ago and enjoyed a happy and varied career, but with three daughters aged five and under, work needs to be flexible these days, and the IMP
gives Christina the chance to balance work and family, as well as covering a subject she loves - Whitstable!
CONTRIBUTORSLiz CrudgingtonLiz has spent the last eight years writing about Whitstable for one of the town’s newspapers and is excited to be involved with The Whitstable IMP. She’ll be working on news
and features, and is looking forward to making sure the whole town knows what’s going on. Now a freelance writer, Liz is available for media, marketing and more - contact 07766 735 940 or [email protected]
Andy CaponAndy has lived in Whitstable for several years, and is the founder member of local band The Trouser Trumpets. He has written two as yet unpublished factual books; Gone But Not
Forgotten, and Does Humour Belong In Music?. Currently unemployed but hoping to return to work soon, Andy is also working on a novel, How Do You Know It’s Love?
Stephanie ShantiStephanie has been practising yoga for 12 years and teaching since 2000. She trained at the International Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre in Montreal, Canada, and has taught classes to a
wide variety of clients. She lives in Italy with her partner and two sons on their yoga retreat - www.shanticentre.com.
Dominic BriceDominic has lived in Whitstable most of his life. He started out working for a landscape company 17 years ago and after 5 years decided to start his own company, Tranquil Earth Natural Garden
Design, which specialises in creating traditional and contemporary gardens, built with respect for the environment and to encourage wildlife. Visit www.tranquil-earth.co.uk for garden ideas.
Malissa TaylorSouth African-born Malissa is passionate about three things; Mamahood, Music and Mother Earth. She spends most of her
time consumed by these and feels that her responsibility is to ensure that each is celebrated by everything that she does. She recently moved to Whitstable, and she hopes to submerge herself in the community, something which she believes is essential for her wellbeing and that of her family.
SALES: Mel Birkett FREEPHONE 0800 44 88 309
DESIGN: Adam Boreham www.reactionvm.co.uk
PRINTING: Headley Brothers www.headley.co.uk
PUBLISHERS: IMP PO Box 290, Whitstable, CT5 9AH
Spring is here, and with it comes the desire to get out and about, admire our beautiful surroundings and really
appreciate everything that Whitstable has to offer. This issue covers the harbour, local walks (with or without pet!) and spring projects for your garden.
Feast your eyes - Andy looks at Art and exhibiting in Whitstable - and your ears - with our newest addition, the gig guide, a list of live gigs in Whitstable over the next month or so.
This month you can win tickets to Bands@the Belmont (details page 41), and there’s an exclusive offer for IMP readers for photography from Tim Stubbings (details page 24).
And while we’ve been busy compiling the magazine, imps have been beavering away behind the scenes, updating the website. You can now go to www.the-imp.co.uk to see all our issues reproduced in full online, to search through our new business directory, or to check something in the listings or the gig guide if you don’t happen to have your copy of the IMP to hand... (If you do spot any errors, please let us know, we don’t want to publish any inaccurate information.)
The winner of the draw for dinner for four at the Pearson’s Arms from the March issue is Cliff Willoughby of Collingwood Road, Whitstable - congratulations!
The Whitstable IMP is a is a monthly magazine distributed free of charge to homes and businesses in Whitstable. A monthly minimum 90% of our 16,000 circulation is delivered via letter-box distribution, the balance being made available to locals and visitors through a variety of outlets including Whitstable and Swalecliffe libraries, The Horsebridge Centre, various dentists and doctors surgeries as well as other suitable outlets. Advertising is booked in the IMP is on the basis that 16,000 magazines are printed and made available in this way, anecdotal evidence that specific addresses have not been delivered to will not be grounds for full or partial refunds.
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COMMUNITYWhitstable HarbourHarbour Master Mike Wier tells Liz about the latest developmentsPage 8
A day in the Life... Our new series - this month Liz talks to local PC, Andy Camp Page 12
Girlguiding in Whitstable With the centenary coming up next year we look at girlguiding today and ask you to share your memories of the past Page 14
Good Herbs, Honestly Middle Wall’s own green- fingered cottage industry Page 22
Bubble bits and bobs Your monthly round-up - from May Day celebrations to Volunteering in the Community Page 26
Letter Box Your views in print! Page 34
What’s on? Another bumper month! Page 42
LIFESTYLEPet Month April 4 to May 4 - but even if you don’t have pets, check out some of these lovely local walks Page 19
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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12 14
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Are you model material? Local photographer Tim Stubbings offers you the chance to find out! Page 24
Alternative ways to... put a spring in your step Fresh air, spring greens and, of course, Yoga! Page 28
Recipe Samphire’s Head Chef Richard shares his recipe for Fish Pie Page 30
Gardening Tips for April As everything turns green, Dominic has more wholesome outdoor projects for you to try Page 32
Horoscopes Will spring bring changes to your life? Page 37
ENTERTAINMENTArt in Whitstable With accessible galleries and plentiful local talent, Whitstable is the place to be Page 16
Gig Guide NEW!! Live music listings for the month ahead in Whitstable! Page 39
www.the-imp.co.uk
All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole is prohibited without prior written consent from the Publisher. Opinions expressed in the editorial are not necessarily those of the Editor or Publisher. IMP does not accept responsibility for the advertising contents, or endorse or recommend any of the companies or products featured; nor shall IMP be liable for any damage caused to or losses suffered by any person who relies on the information published in this magazine. © Independent Media Publications.
Cover shot: Tim Stubbings
See Hullabaloo and Rubber Biscuit p41
A Amanda, who has an acupuncture degree and spent two years training as a herbalist, treats a whole range of conditions from
pain relief to skin problems. Her specialist area is working with gynaecological complaints, especially fertility and IVF support.
She is proud to know many babies around Whitstable who were conceived after treatment and often meets up with them at toddler groups she attends with her own daughter.
“It is wonderful to be able to share in that joy,”she said. “Many people come to us as a
last resort, and studies show that acupuncture does improve the chances of successful IVF treatment, but I would also recommend sessions in preparation for conceiving.”
Annette, a homeopath and craniosacral therapist, also treats pregnant women and offers her gentle technique to babies and children.
She recommends craniosacral therapy as a wonderful way of de-stressing and restoring health and relaxation.
Annette has also had a lot of success in treating adults and children using a specialist machine that measures electrical responses to pinpoint sensitivities and toxins in the body.
The QX machine can also identify food intolerances, allergies and measure hydration levels and toxicities, giving a more complete picture of a person’s health.
Annette said: “It is a very useful tool if people feel generally under the weather or sluggish and are not sure why. Maybe after a long cold winter you feel like your body needs a spring clean. The QX machine can identify any areas that aren’t performing as well as they should and I can then recommend treatments to improve that.”
The pair are planning to set up a special children’s clinic to offer advice and treatment on a range of childhood complaints and hope it could become a lifeline for worried mums.
“Many parents are concerned about minor ailments like colic, teething and constipation for their babies and children and sometimes just want some advice on natural ways to treat them,” said Amanda.
The Holistic Health Place is offering 20% off a first session for IMP readers when they book.For details, call 01227 265082 or click onhttp://www.theholistichealthplace.com orwww.acupunctureplace.co.uk
Spring is in the air, a perfect time to detox, de-stress and re-energise our bodies. Alternative therapists Amanda Thomas and Annette Stein are offering a wide range of treatments at their clinic in Whitstable. The treatments they offer are particularly effective for relieving stress, increasing energy levels and improving overall health.
Holistic Health
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Development plots available... It’s enough to strike fear into the heart of anyone who cares about Whitstable Harbour. But does the reappearance of that ominous sign spell more dark days for the port?
Not according to harbour master Mike Wier, who insists lessons have been learnt since the
management board’s last ill-fated attempt to select a development. “The more consultation that happens, the better,” he said. “That was a big lesson from last time. People are very keen to be involved. Hopefully those lessons have been learnt and that will happen for this process.”
Back in 2007, almost 20,000 people signed a petition opposing the three schemes selected, which would have seen a hotel, supermarket or pub built on the south quay. The successful campaign was organised by the Whitstable Harbour Watch group, which has had many productive discussions with the harbour board since then. Mr Wier said: “After the last process
was overwhelmingly rejected by the community, the board worked more closely with Harbour Watch and it was agreed that they would reject all three and start again, which they have done. The second exercise is now underway and there has been a strong interest from potential developers. It will be interesting to see what comes of them.”
Expressions of interest for the quayside sites were due to be with the council by the beginning of April, and the first report on the proposals received will go before the harbour board later this month. There is nothing to stop the developers who were involved last time submitting schemes again and by mid March 40 application packs had been sent out. The council’s harbour development website, http://www.canterbury.gov.uk/
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assets/harbour/southquaydevelopment opportunityjune2008.pdf had also received more than 500 hits.
But although the guidance issued to developers does not rule out large-scale building projects, Mr Wier said the board would favour smaller schemes. “There is potential for total redevelopment but the idea was that it would be more incremental,” he said. “We want businesses to say they could put this business on that site. We have learnt lessons on that from the first phase.”
Another change from the 2007 process is to the members of the board, which now includes architect Adam Roake, who will be able to provide valuable guidance on design principles and development. And the panel is also working on a strategic plan to be
considered alongside the development proposals, and consultation on that will begin later this year.
Visitors to the port may not notice many physical changes, although the harbour market and cafe have been given new five-year leases and repairs to the west quay started a few weeks ago. Ships carrying stone still come and go, albeit rather sporadically, and the fishermen are still a popular feature as they prepare and sell their catch. But on paper, there are some significant differences to report. Mr Wier said: “The harbour is now ring-fenced financially and we are about to put in some very good results. “Our projected year-end profit is £104,500. This figure doesn’t bear any relation to the economic downturn. It is our best ever result.”
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The record profits - more than £25,000 up on last year - are due to making better use of the harbour land with new tenants like the market, cafe, wind farm maintenance base and beach huts. There have also been cost savings in admin services and other areas which are helping to offset the downturn in shipping. Mr Wier said: “What makes it even more remarkable is that these profits were generated at a time of major investment with replacement of the East Quay and new equipment and infrastructure. And these profits go into the harbour fund for capital repairs and expenditure in the future.”
So what else will that future bring? Until the board has considered the response from developers to this phase of the process it’s hard to say. But smaller scale schemes in the pipeline include more public seating areas and additional parking in the Oyster Indoor Bowls Club car park. Officials are in negotiations with the club about the project but hope
to reach agreement in time for the summer season. Mr Wier said: “We are doing our best to keep the harbour accessible as well as clean and tidy and to make sure its future is secure. Any future development will have to contribute positively to the harbour’s function and the board’s objectives of, among other things, supporting the economy and contributing to the character of Whitstable. Proposals that include public space or that perform community functions will receive favourable consideration.”
The harbour board meeting starts at 3pm on Friday, April 24 at the Parish Social Centre in Castle Road. It is open to the public although people wishing to speak must register their intention with the council beforehand. The agenda will be available from the district office in Harbour Street and online at http://www.canterbury.gov.uk a week before the meeting. Liz Crudgington
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The IMP caught up with PC Camp on a late
shift to see what a day in his life involves.
PC Camp’s first job is to check his
emails and phone messages and respond
to anything urgent. But he hates to be tied
to the office so after a quick catch-up with
Whitstable’s PCSOs (Police Community
Support Officers) he is off out on his beat.
The 33-year-old has been keeping the town
safe for two years, but has 14 years policing
experience and joined the force after a work
experience placement as a teenager.
“I love being out there and making a
difference to people’s lives,” he said. “A lot
of my role is about reassuring people and
making sure they feel safe, as well as being
an approachable person they recognise.
Sometimes it takes me more than an hour to
walk down the High Street because so many
people want to stop me, but if that means I
am getting the information I need to do my job
properly then I’m happy to help.”
One of his first calls is a follow-up visit to a
woman who reported problems with teenagers
the night before. Although PC Camp was not on
duty at the time, as the neighbourhood officer
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it is part of his job to check for further problems
and make sure she feels secure.
He then visits the manager at Somerfield to
check the CCTV tapes after a theft the previous
evening. The store, like dozens of others around
the town, is part of the Businesses Against
Crime initiative which means staff have radios
to alert other retailers of suspicious activity. PC
Camp monitors the radio traffic throughout his
shift and is ready to respond if there is an urgent
call or a crime in progress.
He said: “I love being part of an arrest
or emergency situation and that does take
precedence over appointments or meetings. “It’s
one of the reasons I first became a police officer
and I still love the feeling of satisfaction I get when
a problem is solved or a criminal is prosecuted.”
But meetings are also part of his routine
and provide a valuable way for him to gather
intelligence and build relationships around the
town. He holds monthly surgeries for people
to discuss any police-related problems and
also attends meetings of both the town centre
and West Beach PACT panels (Partners
and Communities Together). This summer,
the surgeries will move to the Chamber of
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF... PC ANDY CAMP
PC Andy Camp doesn’t need an alarm - his two-year-old son performs that function admirably. The toddler makes sure his dad is up bright and early at 6am, whether he’s on an early shift that day or didn’t get home until late the night before. But the tot provides plenty of laughter and fun before his dad has to leave for his job as Whitstable’s town centre neighbourhood officer.
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Commerce hut in the harbour and will be held at
the same time as the harbour market to make
sure there are plenty of people about to pop in.
PC Camp is also a familiar face to many of
the town’s schoolchildren, because he tries to
be around for school run times at least once a
week. The youth club is also a regular stop on
his patrol and he gets a warm welcome from
the young people there, who appreciate his
willingness to listen to their views.
After checking some of the areas teenagers
often gather to make sure there are no problems,
he carries out some road checks, recording drivers’
speeds and looking for anyone using a mobile
phone while driving or not wearing a seatbelt.
Then, as the evening really begins, PC
Camp visits pubs and off-licences to check
for problems and let the licensees know he is
around to help. “A lot of my time is taken up with
underage drinking, especially at the weekend,”
he said. “We try to get in there early to prevent
problems before they occur. Everyone we stop
gets a letter home which is sometimes a shock
for their parents.”
Underage drinking and graffiti are two of
the priorities set by the PACT panels, which are
made up of community groups and residents,
so a lot of his time is spent working on those
particular problems. “The days I like are the days
I can get out there and keep on top of things in
the town,” he said. “I can deal with any areas of
concern there and then. I love getting out and
talking to people and working with them to find
ways to improve the neighbourhood.”
The shift ends with more paperwork back
at the office - filling in forms and writing reports
on his activities throughout the day. And after
a quick cycle home, he relaxes for half an hour
before going to bed to prepare for the next day’s
early start.
Liz Crudgington
M any people think of Girlguiding as
something rather old-fashioned, to
do with knitting, knotting and hostess
badges... But the world of guiding has moved
on, and girls now have the opportunity to
try their hand at any number of things - from
abseiling to kayaking.
The Guides’ philosophy has always been
to learn by doing things - in a fun way, without
pressure. This is the main reason why the girl-
guides have remained resolutely a girl-only
space: “It’s about taking the pressure off and
giving girls a chance to be themselves, without
worrying about what they look like or whether
they need to reapply their lipstick!” says leader,
Rosemary Mills. “Take abseiling, for example -
it’s very physical, and normally the domain of
boys. How many girls would feel comfortable
trying it for the first time if they were worried
about how they might look in front of the boys?”
And the feedback from the girls themselves only
supports this view: “They like to have a girl-only
environment, when they can relax and really be
themselves without any distractions...”
And although things have moved on,
Girlguiding still teaches valuable life-skills.
Some, like managing money and budgeting,
which our mothers and grandmothers would
have taken for granted - but others are
particularly relevant to the issues of today, such
as cyber-safety, environmental awareness, and
healthy body image.
There are currently more than 300 members
in Whitstable who are Rainbows, Brownies or
Guides, plus about 60 adult leaders. To find out
about Rainbows, Brownies or Guides near you,
contact Rosemary Mills at rkmills@btinternet.
com, on 01227 274588, or check out the
website www.girlguiding.org.uk to see what
21st century Guides get up to.
Christina Birkett
GIRLGUIDING IN WHITSTABLECO
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In 2010 Girlguiding UK celebrates 100 years since the organisation began. Here in Whitstable, September will see the launch of a year of celebrations. The IMP will keep you informed of everything that’s going on, including an exhibition at Whitstable Museum early next year - which is where you come in!
It is said that 50% of women have belonged to the Brownies or Guides at some point in their lives and they will all have memories - or memorabilia - from these times. Do you have photographs of yourselves or your friends in uniform - or were you even a Brownie in the Blitz? If you have any interesting stories or pictures and you’d like participate in the exhibition, Rosemary would like to hear from you: “We would like to make contact with lots of past members in order to gather their memories of being in the Guides, and hopefully some of their pictures too.”You can contact Rosemary at [email protected] or on 01227 274588.
THE FISH SLAB GALLERY
For the aspiring artist, finding somewhere
to get your work seen for the first time
may seem a daunting task. Whether it’s
due to cultural elitism or sheer competition, an
artist may find themselves hanging their work at
home only. But one local gallery in Whitstable
is sure to open its doors to any artist, and has
provided a valuable conduit to artists trying
to break into the local scene. The Fish-slab
Gallery in Oxford Street is not just looking for
established artists, but newcomers also, as
John Bird explained: “The object of the exercise
is to get as many up-and-coming artists in as
possible. Ours is a non-elitist springboard into
the local art world and all are welcome.” And
it’s not just artists who are welcome at the
gallery - they are also looking for anyone with
experience in running a gallery.
The Fish-slab gallery opened about 7 years
ago, after Jean Willis persuaded the council to
use the old Fishmongers at 11 Oxford Street,
and Norma Fryer has been running it almost
single-handedly since then. John is trying to put
a committee together now to run the gallery,
from which the council will derive an income
(it’s been running rent-free since it’s opening).
This will free up Norma’s time to concentrate
on her own art, which can also be seen at
the gallery. “The gallery has had a ‘grace and
favour’ existence for 7 years but now they’re
going to have to do it properly,” John explained.
“We need a group of people to operate the
system, particularly now, as the law dictates
that if we’re getting rates relief, we have to run
the gallery by the board.” Despite this, there
are still many exhibitions and private viewings
planned, including an exhibition, ‘Combination’
by local artists Lin and Lawrence Fletcher from
May 20-26. Lin told us: “The local art scene
is thriving at the moment, especially with the
rejuvenation of the Fish-slab gallery.” And it’s
this rejuvenation that John hopes will attract
new and younger artists to the town.
“We provide a facility to encourage unknown
artists... we want new blood to come in. The pricing
is at the point where, if you haven’t got any money
and your work is brilliant, we’ll find someone to pay
for it. We don’t want to discourage anybody.” And
established artists return to the Fish-slab, as John
explained: “We still get some familiar faces coming
back, as it’s a very affordable gallery. There isn’t an
atmosphere of competition in the gallery community
- visitors to Whitstable are aware of the art scene
and know they have a varied choice in Galleries.
When a gallery has a private view, others will stay
open late to capitalise on this. All are welcome, and
If an artist gets confidence from exhibiting with us
and then goes on to another gallery, brilliant, we’ve
done our job!” Anyone wishing to exhibit at the
Fish-slab Gallery can contact John Bird on
01227 273952.
Andy Capon
ART IN WHITSTABLEAR
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Sadie at the Horsebridge
ARTS
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SADIE HENNESSEY
People take up art for a variety of reasons. Some
are born to do it and others, it seems, take it
up due to a change in life circumstances. One
such artist is Whitstable-based Sadie Hennessey, and her
recent exhibition at the Horsebridge belies the fact that
she began art as a part-time career a mere five years ago.
Currently studying for an MA in fine art at London’s
Saint Martin’s college, Sadie is also preparing for an
exhibition at the Affordable Arts fair in Battersea. But
it’s quite a departure from her previous career as a
TV producer, as Sadie explained: “I worked in TV for
years and stopped when I had my first child in 2000,
and after my second was born I couldn’t imagine going
back to TV. I had a lot of free time and started work on
some collages.”
A chance meeting with another local artist, Paul
Elliott, saw Sadie open her first exhibition of her
trademark collages at Whitstable’s Fish Slab gallery in
2005. “I was petrified at first, given that I only had three
months to prepare, but it was just what I needed. I was
nervous at the private view, but then I sold one piece,
and then another, and by the end of the night I had
nearly sold out, which made me realise that people liked
what I was doing - and I haven’t looked back since.”
Sadie, 44, has been working hard on new work
since and has many exhibitions under her belt. Her big
breakthrough was a show at the Chelsea Arts club:
“That was fantastic, and I managed to sell almost
everything. A few galleries picked up on this and I was
soon exhibiting in those.”
It’s not hard to see why Sadie’s art is enjoying
success, as the recent Horsebridge exhibition, which
saw 500 people attend, showed. There is a darkly
comic edge to some of Sadie’s work, in particular the
piece entitled ‘St. Kerry of Katona’, which shows the
TV reality star as a haloed saint holding a scroll saying
‘Mum’s gone to Iceland’, and the even more surreal ‘St.
Amy of The Beehive’, where Amy Winehouse becomes
a crucifix-pondering Nun. But a preoccupation with
50s kitsch and the Punk era seems to be the main
theme of Sadie’s work and she’s somehow managed to
seamlessly blend the two genres. “It’s an aesthetic thing,
I love the whole iconography of the 50s and I love the
whole D.I.Y. attitude of the Punk era, just cutting stuff up
to make your own thing.”
One of Sadie’s pieces, a pastiche of the notorious
Sex Pistols single cover for God Save The Queen, drew a
lot of positive attention at the Horsebridge. It stayed quite
faithful to the original and has a picture of our monarch
with ‘God Saved The Queen’ across her face with ‘30
years on’ beneath. A picture nearby proclaims ‘Punks
Snot Dead’, but other genres also get Sadie’s makeover
- Elvis Presley, David Bowie and Marilyn Monroe are also
parodied with pleasing effect.
Sadie’s art has often been compared to Peter Blake,
the creator of the famous ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts
Club Band’ album cover, and the comparison soon
becomes obvious when looking at the collaged nature
of her work.
Sadie’s work can be seen around London, but she
is also aware of the importance of local support and
is grateful to the Horsebridge Centre for not taking
commission on her work, but rather charging just the
rent of the gallery. “I love the support that Whitstable
offers artists, and it’s relatively inexpensive to exhibit.
The Horsebridge Centre was very accommodating, and
the Fish Slab Gallery, too, charges next to nothing. It
would’ve been a lot harder in London to start up and
get people along to exhibitions. Whitstable is a great
springboard for artists, and being local you get to know
other artists, and meet people at the exhibitions.”
Sadie is continuing to work on new pieces as well
as the MA course, but despite these commitments is
planning new exhibitions, and will be throwing her doors
open for the Artists open house trail in the Autumn.
Anyone interested in her work can find out more by
visiting www.sadiehennessy.co.uk Andy Capon
ART IN WHITSTABLE ART IN WHITSTABLE
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This year’s theme is ‘Healthy Pets Make Happy Pets’, which applies equally well to humans. So, as Spring is in the air, we at
the IMP have put together our favourite walks which you can enjoy with or without your four-legged friend... although it may be easier to leave the hamster at home.
National Pet Month also aims to increase public awareness of the services available from people who work with animals, and many vets will be running special offers to coincide with the event. So if Fido’s due a booster or Tabby needs her teeth checked, April is the ideal time to do it.
1Duncan Downs Tranquillity and beautiful open space for you, enough smells to keep
the sniffiest hound amused for hours. Perfect!
2Seasalter Beach Park on Faversham Road and you even get newly refurbished toilets if
those muddy paws need cleaning afterwards.
3Clowes Wood Wonderful in all weathers, although a bit muddy in the rain, and near
the Dogs Trust rehoming centre if you wanted to pop in and consider another canine companion on the way home.
4Long Rock Swalecliffe A real doggy community exists here so there are plenty of
chances to make new friends, of the two-legged and four-legged variety.
5Cornwallis Circle Perfect for elderly dogs and their owners, with enough space to
roam without getting worn out. Phew!
PET MONTHWhether you’ve got a gorgeous gerbil or a felicitous feline, April is the month to celebrate them. National Pet Month runs from April 4 to May 4 and thousands of people across the country will be organising special events to promote responsible pet ownership or raise money for animal charities.
The Downs are beautiful in all kinds of weather
Tankerton, looking towards Long Rock
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6Tankerton Slopes Best to visit this one in winter because the beach is dog-free in
the summer. But the slopes themselves provide plenty of fun, especially if you have a ball with you.
7Chestfield Rec Not the playpark area in the middle of the village but the open sports
ground area near the Chestfield Barn. There are some great footpaths and a wonderful expanse of grass for chasing around. Watch out for footballers though!
8Horsebridge to Harbour Fair-weather walkers or those with pushchairs or
wheelchairs can enjoy all the benefits of a
seaside walk without the shingle using the walkway along the beach. Dogs will have to be kept on a lead in the harbour.
9Westmeads Rec Perfect for a kickabout with the kids and the dog can join in too. But as
with all our walks, make sure you pick up that poo!
10 The Crab and Winkle Way We’ve saved the best till last - a fantastic route
to enjoy with the whole family, and why not take your bike and make it a real day out?
Article by Liz Crudgington, Pics by Debra Maybourne
Do you need help to:
- Lose weight?
- Stop smoking?
- Reduce your anxiety?
- Overcome depression?
- Relieve symptoms of IBS
or Psoriasis?
can help.
Contact Lisa Barnett free on 0800 612 8153 or visit www.Qhypnotherapy.co.uk
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A wise person once said: “If you are lucky enough
to live in Whitstable, you are lucky enough…”
When I first came to this lovely town nearly
five years ago, we took a walk along Middle Wall and
discovered a lovely little garden filled with little white
plastic markers and hand-written signs offering the
readers an opportunity to share the most delicious
herbs for as little as one shiny pound.
The family responsible for this little herbal treasure
trove are the Hastings; Andrew, Janet, and their children
Imogen and Leo. About fifteen years ago, Andrew
decided to share a packet of parsley seeds with the rest
of the people in Whitstable and things have gone from
strength to strength. For five and a half days, Andrew
deals with money and those who need it, but his real
passion (besides writing sitcoms and comedy sketches
and playing drums in a local rock band – Crow Man) is
growing herbs. He loves educating his family and anyone
who will listen about the gorgeousness of herbs and how
they make our life a much better place.
The word ‘organic’ has been used lately to describe
food or products approved by a certain association,
but before this, it could be defined as natural, holistic,
and healthful. This is also a perfect way to describe
the Hastings’ herbs. Though the herbs are not certified
organic, Andrew uses no pesticides nor any ugly things
that could potentially harm the earth or the people eating
them. He does not make enormous amounts of money
but some of the money he has made, he donates to a
charity called the CAH Society in honour of a friend.
Over the years, I have bought herbs from various
sources and Honesty Herbs are the only ones that have
survived my brown fingers. There is a wide variety of
herbs, including up to forty different kinds of mint, and
even Vietnamese coriander. Take a little walk along
Middle Wall soon and collect some great, organically-
grown herbs at good, honest prices. The herbs outside
this house are much like the lovely family who are
inside… a joy and a delicious accompaniment to a
wonderful town. Malissa Taylor
GREAT HERBS HONESTLY...
We all rely on computers now – it’s just a fact of
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going to do now?
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It’s an overcast and chilly morning in Broadstairs, and Whitstable-based photographer Tim Stubbings is busy photographing another of his FREESTYLE photo-shoots. “It’s so simple really,” he says, “in that for years there
have been photographers like myself working on location for commercial clients, finding innovative ways to work - and yet the high street studio’s offering to the public has mainly consisted of jumping around in front of a white background. Some people find a studio setting can be both sterile and daunting – but getting away from that can be great fun and a lot more relaxing. So all I’m doing is opening up the magazine-style shoot to everyone else, not just commercial clients. It really is a magazine-style shoot in which the model is you.”
For Tim, this style of photography lends itself particularly well to Whitstable and the surrounding coastal towns. “It’s all about breaking out of the studio and using the beach, woodland or some great urban locations as well. The key to these sorts of pictures is both the lighting and the location, and we’re spoilt for choice along the Kent coast. A lot of fashion and magazine work will deliberately use locations which are neutral – and they can be anything, from a car-park, to a shelter on Tankerton slopes.”
Tim completed a shoot just before Christmas,around the East Quay and Continental Hotel in Whitstable, and revealed: “There you have at least 3 or 4 great backdrops to work with, not even counting the sea or the views!”
Taking part in the current shoot is Sophie, a student at UKC, who is working with Tim on the training courses he offers both commercially and to students (he coaches as a guest lecturer on the photography degree course at Christchurch). Tim explains: “We’re shooting here on what is effectively an industrial estate – but by being careful and selective we can find some great backdrops which act as our set.”
ARE YOU...
MODEL MATERIAL?
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MAGAZINE & FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY GOES MAINSTREAM, AS WHITSTABLE PHOTOGRAPHER TIM STUBBINGS LAUNCHES FREESTYLE – THE MAGAZINE-STYLE SHOOT WHERE THE MODEL IS YOU...
MODEL MATERIAL?
TIM IS OFFERING AN EXCLUSIVE PROMOTION TO IMP READERS.
Anyone booking a FREESTYLE shoot in April will have a glossy 20-page book of their pictures
(worth £95) included absolutely free, in addition to a free 10x8 print. For more information of FREESTYLE
see http://www.freestylepix.co.uk or call Tim on 01227 460604
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EASTER ART TRAILFrom Marine Terrace down to the Harbour, Whitstable artists
will be opening their doors to the public for the Easter
bank holiday weekend. On show will be a wide variety of
original artwork including stained glass, paintings, ceramics,
contemporary jewellery, photographs and prints.
For further details pick up a leaflet from Keam’s Yard
studio and gallery, (next to Keam’s Yard car park), and do
something different this Easter. Entrance to all venues is
free and all are welcome!
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WHITSTABLE’S 32ND
MAY DAY CELEBRATIONS
At 11am on Monday May 4,
Whitstable & Herne Bay Lions
Club will be holding their May Day
Celebrations on Tankerton Slopes,
opposite the Castle Grounds, with a
‘Teddy Bears Picnic’ theme. Bring
along your Teddies, there are prizes for the best dressed bear,
as well as entertainments (including Punch & Judy), stalls of
all types and hot and cold food.
The traditional May Day Festival starts at 10.30am
outside the library, with Morris Dancing Sides from all over
the country, organised and joined by the Oyster Morris Side.
After dancing outside the library, at noon they will proceed
through the High Street to the Horse Bridge for more
dancing (and a bit of drinking) where they will be joined at
1pm by the traditional ‘Jack in the Green’ (who has been
‘resting’ in the Duke of Cumberland). They all then proceed
to Harbour Street were the Morris sides line the street, the
Jack dances through, and leads them all to the Harbour for
more dancing. They then proceed up Tower Hill to join the
Lions club celebrations on Tankerton slopes, where they will
sing the traditional May Day song.
For more information or to book a stall, call Dixie on
01227 275959
DO YOU HAVE A LITTLE TIME TO SPARE?Age Concern Whitstable are looking to expand their
‘Tea for Two Befriending Service’ in the Whitstable
area. The scheme arranges for a volunteer befriender
to visit a lonely older person regularly for a cup of
tea and a chat, giving the older person additional
outside contact and something to look forward to.
There is also a wide range of other volunteering
opportunities, including helping in the day centre
(chatting to clients, serving tea and coffee etc),
helping the management team by becoming a
trustee, assisting on a mini bus as a transport
escort, afternoon entertainment (the centre always
welcomes volunteers who can play a musical
instrument or sing), assisting with the new healthy
lifestyle and wellbeing initiative, helping with
health walks, exercise classes and dance classes.
Volunteering can be on a regular basis or for
a one off project. If you have a little time to spare
and would like to do something really worthwhile
and rewarding, please contact Gill Ball on 01227
787313 or 07735556811 or Age Concern
Whitstable directly on 01227 272055 to find
out more.
BANDS @ THE BELMONTA number of local businesses have joined forces
to support Whitstable Town Football Club in
promoting awareness of the club, and trying to
tap into other activities, apart from football, to benefit the
Whitstable community.
The first such event - Bands@the Belmont - will be
held at Whitstable football ground on May 15. Featuring
well-known local bands Hullabaloo & Rubber Biscuit,
gates open at 6pm, starts at 7pm, with KMFM Road
Show. Drink & food will be available to buy. Wristbands
can be bought for £10 in advance or £15 on the night.
Call Neil Harrington on 01227 266012 or 01227 272302
for more information.
RACE FOR LIFEThis summer, thousands of women across the country will take part in a series of races to raise money for Cancer Research UK. The charity’s annual Race For Life campaign is one of its most successful, and has raised £240million for vital research since it started in 1994. This year, a target of £62.5million has been set, and IMP writer Liz Crudgington will be one of those helping to reach it.
She has signed up for the Race for Life in Herne Bay, which together with the Canterbury event are the nearest to Whitstable, and has already started her training. “I did Race for Life once before but I walked most of the way and this time I am determined to run,” said Liz. “It’s a daunting prospect because I haven’t done any running since I left school, and I didn’t do much of it then, but I like a challenge!”
Liz has set up a fund-raising website, http://www.justgiving.com/lizcrudgington so people can sponsor her online and IMP readers will be able to follow her training progress in future editions. For more information on Race for Life or to sign up, visit www.raceforlife.org
DO YOU WORK FROM HOME?Do you miss the company of people or fancy an occasional change of scenery?
If you have a laptop and a mobile, why not use them to work from Whitstable Chamber of Commerce’s hut in the harbour?
The building acts as a signpost to the town’s many businesses and attractions and is staffed by volunteers who provide a warm welcome to visitors and locals alike. Chamber spokesman Dave Heenan said: “One of our volunteers owns holiday accommodation and has taken many bookings from people visiting the Harbour Hut.
“Another couple who volunteered on weekdays played Scrabble. “It really is up to you how you use your time in the hut, as long as you can relate to the people who come in and give them information about Whitstable. Of course, there is no pay and little thanks but it’s a friendly place to work and you might even get extra clients out of it!”
If you are interested in volunteering, or want more information, pop into the hut on the south quay,
email [email protected] or call him on 07538 139183.
SUMMER IS ON ITS WAY... And with it will come Whitstable’s
hugely popular Oyster Festival.
But as you enjoy the events and
activities, have you ever wondered who organises it all?
The celebrations are actually put together by a
small team of volunteers, working with co-ordinator
Mair Stratton, and they are looking for more people to
join them.
Some of the roles people can take on include looking
after the Lord Mayor and other VIP guests, manning
information stands or helping to clean up after the
events. Mair said: “We really need people to volunteer
during the festival as well as to help us in the planning
stages. There is a lot going on and we need a lot of
hands to help out.”
The programme for this year is still being put
together but is likely to include a day centered around
the heritage of the harbour, more performances by local
musicians, events for children and families and all the
old favourites. Last year’s Whitstable Wishes lantern
event will not be repeated but another spectacular
finale is being planned.
If you are interested in joining WOFA or helping out
during the festival, email [email protected] or call
Brian Baker on 07771 630056.
To discuss performing during the festival or putting
on an event, email [email protected] or call
07712 529882.
BOOK CLUBDid you know there is a new book and film club
which meets the first Thursday of the month at
the Whitstable Umbrella Centre? A fun and relaxed
group, they alternate books and films in the monthly
sessions, which begin at 6:30pm and end at 9:00pm.
It costs £1 but this includes refreshment half-way
through the session.
With a chance for everyone to get involved in
choosing the book or the film at the meeting, it is
intended to be exciting and sociable, and everyone’s
opinion counts. Either turn up and ask for Red or phone
the centre on 01227 274880 for more details.
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Hooray! We have made it through the
long cold nights of February and have
come skipping and jumping through
March, and with only Spring on our minds and
here we are, April at last!
Or is it just an anti-climax because it
is STILL cold and rainy and a long wait till
the Oyster Festival? If you feel that Spring is
perpetually on its way but never quite breaking
through, then try these simple exercises to
literally put a spring in your step.
1 Go for a long walk - check out the beautiful
Whitstable walks in Liz’s article on page
19 - they’re beautiful with or without pets! Set
aside a day to walk in nature, even if it is raining
or cold, wrap up warm, put on your waterproofs
and go and find some spring flowers. Even the
process of looking for and finding these signs
of spring can really help lift the spirits. Breathe
in deeply and just walk. Why not pack a picnic
or treat yourself to lunch out and make a day of
it? Just planning a day trip out will set you on
your way to finding the spring in your step!
2 Do some yoga outside. Try the tree pose
outside by a tree, or the dancer on the beach.
Not only will they develop your co-ordination,
balance, stamina and posture, practising them
outside will help your lungs circulate some well-
deserved fresh air around your body, and breathe
away any cobwebs which might be making you
feel lethargic.
The Tree Pose• Stand up straight, with your feet together
and arms by your sides. The toes are spread,
thighs strong and the pelvis tilted slightly so
that the coccyx points towards the floor.
• The shoulders are slightly back and down,
the chest open.
ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO... Put a spring in your step
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Tree Pose
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• Take your left foot and place the sole
of against the right inner thigh. (You can
also try putting the foot against the other
calf or knee at first.)
• Take the left knee back as far as possible
but keep the hips in line.
• When you have found your centre, bring
your hands together in front of your chest.
For a more advanced posture, take your
arms up towards the sky, alongside the
ears, palms together.
• Hold the pose for about 10 deep breaths and
come out slowly. Repeat on the other side.
The Dancer• Start from the same position.
• Standing upright, slowly lift
the left foot behind you and
take hold of it with your
left hand.
• Bring the knees together.
• When you have your
balance, take the
right arm straight up,
alongside your ear.
• Then, concentrating on
a fixed point in front of
you, slowly lean forwards
with the upper body,
taking the left leg back a
little. Finally, if you want
to stretch further, you
can lift the left foot up
behind you as far as
you can.
• Hold the pose,
breathing deeply for
about 10 breath and
slowly come out.
• Repeat on the
other side.
3Eat some Spring Greens. We do not
necessarily eat our vegetables in season
anymore, since we can now buy vegetables
imported from anywhere in the world. But
there is nothing quite like the veg that pops
out in the spring, especially if you can eat it
within minutes of being picked. See if you can
find fresh asparagus, broad beans and peas
from a local supplier and check that they have
been recently picked. Then steam them and
serve with butter and a little salt. Mmmmmm.
You could also try Spring vegetable and Miso
soup, found on the Saturday Kitchen website,
or a delicious Spring vegetable risotto. Eating
these young fresh greens as nature intended
will definitely put that Spring in your step!
Stephanie Shanti
Please check that the positions Stephanie describes are suitable for you before you begin. Check with your Health Professional if you are unsure.
The DancerTree Pose
INGREDIENTSRoux:2oz / 50g butter2oz / 50g flour1/2pint / 10fl oz / 30cl milk1/2 glass white wine4 tablespoons double cream
Fish:9oz / 300g salmon fillet9oz / 300g natural smoked haddock 6 oz / 200g cooked and shelled cockles2 big handfuls spinach
Mash:2lb / 1kg potatoesmilk, butter, grated cheese to taste
recipe recipe recipe RECIPE recipe recipe recipe RECIPE
SAMPHIRE FISH PIE TO SERVE 4-6 PEOPLE
METHODRoux:• Melt butter in a saucepan• Add flour• Add wine and milk, whisking as you bring
to the boil and allow to thicken• Finish with double cream and seasoning
Fish:• Dice and place in ovenproof dish with
cockles and shredded spinach leaves• Pour over hot Roux and leave to cool
slightly
Mash:• Pipe or spoon over as pie topping and
add sprinkling of grated cheese if desired• Bake in the oven at 180-200 (depending
on your oven) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown
• Serve with buttered cabbage leaves
Alternatively call on 01227 770075 and let Richard do all the hard work while you enjoy a nice glass of wine.
Samphire, 4 High Street, Whitstable.
Head chef Richard takes us through Samphire’s special for April...
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Specialist home pattern service for all carpets, vinyls, laminates, woods and rugsFree underlay, grippers, door bars and fitting ON ALL CARPETS
Call us for a free estimate on: 01227 265544 or 07860 358552Family-run business Est.1971
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Planning your garden It is important to consider the position of the
sun in the garden in relation to when you spend
time in it. For instance, if you are in the garden
mostly in the afternoons or early evening and you
like sunshine, make sure your patio or decking
area is positioned to take full advantage of all the
available sunshine (the sun rises in the east and
sets in the west). This also applies to planting -
some plants require full sun and some are shade-
lovers. Careful selection of plants to suit your
garden’s aspect always pays dividends.
A pergola for shade Pergolas are timber structures that climbing
plants can be trained over. They can provide a
shady area to escape from the sun in summer.
Pergolas bring height to a garden, creating a
focal point that will add interest to a space. They
can also be positioned to create a walkway or
gateway to separate parts of a large garden.
There are also lots of different types of arbors,
archways and trellis that can be used to create
vertical interest in a garden.
GARDENING TIPS
Garden lighting Garden lighting can extend the hours of your day
outside and bring a whole new ambience to your
garden. Creative garden lighting concentrates
on subtle schemes that create atmosphere
and enhance the planting, garden features and
architecture within a space. This type of lighting
can have an incredible effect on a garden, bringing
it to life and warming it up even in the depths of
winter. Many people leave their curtains open at
night to see the new vistas created by the clever
positioning of garden lights. Please remember
that you must use an electrician to do any outside
wiring or garden lighting.
FOR APRIL
If you have any questions, feedback, or interesting gardening stories or tips, please share them with us – email [email protected] or write to PO Box 290, Whitstable, CT5 9AH
April is the busiest time of year for Garden Designer Dominic Brice, and this year is no exception. The sunny spring weather brings gardening to the front of our minds with the desire to get things in order for the approaching summer. This month Dominic offers some practical tips and ideas that will help you transform your outdoor space.
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What’s looking good?
Tulips Tulips are out in force during April, my
favourite is The Black Tulip, commonly called
the Queen of the Night. It belongs to the
genus Tulipa that has over a hundred species
of bulbous flowering plants. The Queen
of the Night tulip has large, velvety, deep
cocoa-purple flowers on tall stems. Black
tulips appear nearly jet-black at early dawn
and before dusk. It is a great attraction in
the midday sunshine flashing its deep purple
colour, and has a delicious scent.
Magnolia Magnolias are a real eye-catcher during April
with their large colourful blooms. They vary in
size from large trees to small shrubs and are
often fragrant. Magnolias produce some of the
largest flowers of any tree or shrub grown in UK
gardens, though some species take many years
to flower. The flowers often appear before the
leaves and are showy, solitary and very fragrant.
Magnolias prefer acid soil so use plenty of
ericacseous compost when planting.
Quick Tips for April
n Mulch around roses and shrubs – Apply a layer of organic mulch around roses and shrubs to help with moisture retention. Use ericacseous compost around Azalea and Rhododendrons.
n Hard pruning – Prune back tall stems of buddleia davidii and cut back colourful dogwoods right down to about 12” from the ground.
n Keep on top of the mowing – Keep the grass cut regularly during April as it will be growing at its fastest rate during he spring.
n Weed and feed – April is the best time of year to apply lawn feeds and weed treatments. Make sure you follow the instructions, and choose
environmentally-friendly treatments if possible.
Dominic Brice
If you have any questions, feedback, or interesting gardening stories or tips, please share them with us – email [email protected] or write to PO Box 290, Whitstable, CT5 9AH
Magnolia
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Dear IMP,We went through to town today, Sunday, and it was great to see how busy Whitstable was - so busy that we drove to The Jolly Sailor at Seasalter, as we had heard it had new management and it is good to give them our custom.
We could have managed without the meal that we were after (they only had some food on the bar) but when i asked for a coffee the lady said that they only sold cold drinks.
Their loss was our gain, as we had a lovely coffee and two meals with desserts at The Blue Anchor at Seasalter. It seems a shame that we could not get coffee in the first pub and maybe have helped them stay open in this time of the credit crunch.
Mrs Marion Jenkins
Dear IMP,Thank you for the ‘IMP’ which makes regular and interesting reading.
I was interested to read the article on the Castle ‘improvements’ and the proposed one-way system on Tower Hill.
I do hope that the planners have not forgotten that Tower Hill forms part of the Exceptional Load route between Tyler Way Industrial Estate, Swalecliffe and Whitstable Harbour and will bear it in mind when planning Bollards etc.
Name and address withheld
Dear IMP,Thank you so much for The Whitstable IMP. I was delighted to receive them. I find them such a ‘good read’. Thank you again,
Norma
Dear IMP,I have frequently wondered why the state of repair of our residential roads here in Whitstable is so poor. This is not a direct result of the Arctic temperatures we experienced recently but something that has been steadily deteriorating over the years.
I am sure there are many worthy candidates for the worst road surface in Whitstable but my road, Hillview Road, is surely in with a chance of taking the title. It has a manhole at the junction of Vale Road which is like a ski jump, it is full of potholes, subsides where holes have been dug and not been filled in properly and the tarmac is wearing away faster than the Polar Ice Caps.
The pavements fare no better. The kerbstones have been set on top of the road surface with the result that many have become dislodged, broken, or are crumbling away. The footway has been dug up then patched (poorly) so many times that the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders (our local regiment) are considering using it as an assault course!
To be serious, the road surface is wearing away and breaking up and the pavements have numerous trip-hazards along both footways. I have seen men working on the road and pavements on numerous occasions but in my view the repairs can best be described as temporary.
Recently I telephoned the council and was answered by a very helpful person who logged my complaint, gave me a reference number and informed me that I would be contacted by the Highways Inspector. Sure enough I received a call from the Highways Inspector who told me that he would come and inspect the road and ensure any repairs that were needed were carried out. I then received another call to tell me that he had completed an inspection. I was informed that there was no money in the budget to replace the road surface and pavements although a number of repairs would be carried out in the near future. I was pleasantly surprised. The system does work!
However, I may have counted my chickens before they had hatched. The repairs consist of 3 spadefuls of tarmac and one patch about 2 foot square. Maybe the system doesn’t work after all. Omelette anyone?
A resident of Hillview Road
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Dear IMP,Congratulations upon the latest issue of ‘The Imp. ‘ With ‘Whitstable Times’ eventually coming together with its sister papers in H.Bay and Faversham, a distinctive Whitstable voice is more needed than ever.
Interesting contribution from Liz and Chris West. Seeing that you now have a Poet’s Corner,how about the item below on a something else which, as well as tourism staff, needs a ‘more visible presence’ (to quote Chris ‘Imp’ page 15).
Alan Edwards
Dear IMP,A friend of ours is telling my Partner that he should advertise in your magazine claiming that the IMP reaches more people than the local newspapers.
We are both very sceptical of this. The IMP is a great read, full of interesting news and local details but can hardly have wider distribution than, say, the Whitstable Times.
Please put an end to our doubts, if you can.
M. Bunting
Hi M,Your friend is correct. 16,000 IMPs are distributed to the homes and businesses of Whitstable each month. The Times has a Whistable circulation of around 2,500. In fact we are just starting an advertising push to highlight our position. Thanks for your kind words too.
POETS’ CORNERA View but No LooWhitstable’s now a trendy townThe supplements all state.The arty folk’s chic weekend base.The ambiance is great.
The seafood’s really heavenly And the sunsets gain renown. Peter Cushing gave publicity When he settled in the town.
But there’s one thing, I think, alas Our town is lacking yet. The centre of this Shangri La Has but a solitary toilet.
You can gaze in admiration At the harbour and its view. But that ain’t much satisfaction When you’re dying for a poo.
Yes, great sights in all directions That the tourists come to seek.But their most repeated question -‘Is there somewhere for a leak?’ Alan Edwards 17 March 2009
Damaged suspensions, tyres and rims -To drive on our town’s roadsYou need a chieftan tank, prayer book and hymns.With less likely craters on the planet Mars,Those unforgiving potholes are killing our cars.So motorists, cyclists, motor bikers unite - Forward any repair bill to the council and fightThe town’s roads all over in such disrepairPot-holes upon pot-holes - You take your life in your hands to drive out there. Robert Bergin
Write in with your points of view, questions or feed-back, email [email protected] or write to: The Whitstable IMP, PO Box 290, Whitstable CT5 9AH
We print as many of your letters as we can each month, but cannot guarantee to include all letters we receive, and may not be able to print letters in their entirety. The views expressed in the Letter Box are the readers’ own and not necessarily those of the Editor or Publisher.
Any letters or emails sent in to the IMP may be included in The Letter Box – if you would not like your letter published, please state this clearly.
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93238 Wildwoods Bus Cards.pdf 26/2/09 18:06:05
Bathrooms are our businessPersonal bathroom design
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Bathrooms are our businessPersonal bathroom design
Visit our large showroom today Professional Installation Service or Supply Only
• bathrooms • wet rooms • steam rooms • furniture • accessoriesFree parking
www.completebathroomsltd.com
COMPLETE BATHROOMS S.E. LTD
Tel: 01227 282555 e: [email protected]
Unit 61, John Wilson Bus. Pk., Harvey Drive, Chestfield, Whitstable, Kent CT5 3QT
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AQUARIUS January 21 to February 19This is a month for you to
mature as a person. It is also the month for you to receive that which you are wishing for. Abundance is coming your way, so don’t worry about how things will work, they will just fall into place. April is a month of inspiring ideas and focussing them toward a successful outcome. Your far-reaching plans will be supported by material resources.
PISCES February 19 to March 21You need to be courageous
and bold this month. Keep charging ahead and don’t take no for an answer. You can expect miraculous solutions to appear. Spring is really springing your way, and you can count on resources becoming available to you so you can start new projects professionally and materially.
ARIESMarch 21 to April 20April is really full of the joys of
spring for you Arians, you are coming out of a period of nothingness and into new openings and horizons. A new romance is imminent, either with a newcomer or through re-ignited passion in your existing relationship. Be open to giving and receiving love this month. Resources can become available to you this month to begin projects that have been put on hold.
TAURUSApril 20 to May 21This month you feel like
you need to flower, but caution is warranted. You need to look deeper into situations of the heart before bounding in head first. You need to spend this month rather like a hermit, taking time sorting out what is inside before seizing that what you desire on the outside.
GEMINI May 21 to June 22You will be given
the opportunity to flower and blossom this month - you may feel like you have been waiting to shine. Have faith and hope as there is something positive and new on the horizon that you can’t see yet. The wheel of fortune is turning and, with or with out your consent, your fortunes are set to shift this month.
CANCERJune 22 to July 23You can begin to teach
and counsel others based on your experiences now. You have gone through a lot of changes this year and, as spring comes, you can breathe a sigh of relief, stop clinging to the past, and really start to let go a little. A shift into positivity and prosperity is making its way towards you right now so sit tight, watch, and enjoy.
LEO July 23 to August 22April is the time for
the integration of all that you have learned this year. Put it all together and you will make something big this month. You have been feeling emotionally strong and you are now able to open to bigger and better things, especially where love is concerned. Let go of the anger that is holding you back and the sky is the limit. This month sees a resolution of conflict, the ease of mental tensions and a more harmonious journey into the summer.
VIRGOAugust 22 to September 22This is a month full of
friendliness, either discovering new friends that have been near all the time, or rediscovering old and lost dear ones. Enjoy the feeling of cultivating relationships and integrating all your energies together. You can be very powerful this month if you put it all together. But be aware that to experience true friendships, you might have to let go of others.
LIBRASeptember 22 to October 23It is a month of ripeness for
Librans, you are ready to shine. You can be an inspiration and indeed a teacher to those around you and they will follow your inspiring example. You are going on a journey of the heart, and it might actually be a material journey too. If you sacrifice your defensiveness, your path will be transformed.
SCORPIO October 23 to November 22This month you may feel like
past lives or past actions are coming out to haunt you. But don’t despair, try to use all the imagery you receive about it all to look to the future and positively change your ways. Some time alone in nature, meditating on your desires and intentions, will definitely help you at this time.
SAGITTARIUS November 22 to December 22You will feel the need to
bring harmony to all the situations around you this month but be careful, some need to be looked at carefully and caution may be needed before you proceed headlong. You face an important choice - for some Sagitarians it may be the time to journey forward as old paths have collapsed, for others it may be time to reconsider your position and contemplate what needs to be relinquished.
CAPRICORN December 22 to January 21You will hopefully feel a touch
of happiness and friendliness in this coming month, and you will feel that your desired outcome will occur in the very near future. Try to have patience and faith and don’t try to force things to happen. There should be a resolution of conflict and the ease of mental tension coming up, and generally a more harmonious journey across troubled waters.
Stephanie Shanti
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1 Stop any advertising that isn’t working
Test your ads. If you cannot effectively test
the ad you are running then stop advertising. That
may sound obvious but many people are running
ads just because that’s what their business has
always done. They don’t really know whether the
ads are working or not.
2Look at how much you are spending.
A good basic rule for comparing rates or
calculating what you should pay for an ad is ‘cost
per thousand’. That is what it costs you for every
thousand people who might see the publication.
So, an ad that costs you £100, in a publication
which is read by 5,000 people, has a cost per
thousand of £20.
3Only run ads that are going to produce
a response. There is no point in running
an ad at a really low cost per thousand if the
readers of that publication are not in your
catchment area. The size of the catchment area
varies from business to business. Bluewater
draws customers from over hundred miles away,
whereas a local retailer may generate 90% of their
turnover within a 3 mile radius of their location.
4 Get your ad right. The most important
element is the headline. This needs to grab
people’s attention. Use powerful, emotive words
like FREE, Exclusive, terrific, exciting, staggering,
STOP WASTING YOUR MONEY ON INEFFECTIVE ADVERTISING – YOU KNOW WE ARE IN A RECESSION!
amazing. Then we come to what you’re selling.
You need to interest the reader, communicate
the benefits of your product, why it’s better than
your rivals’ product and, most importantly, give a
reason to act NOW!
5 You have to shout loudest. Unless you
have a vast marketing budget and can afford
to pay for the biggest, most striking ad, there is
little point in going into a publication with pages
and pages of other advertisers. They are all vying
for the readers’ attention. You can’t shout louder
than all the others put together!
6Don’t put all your eggs in the one basket.
Relying solely on advertising is not always
the best idea. Consider Direct Mail, Telephone
Marketing, Direct Sales, email, Internet, or
referrals.
7 Advertising works, if it’s done correctly.
If you do it well, and test and experiment,
then advertising can become a highly profitable
element of your marketing mix.
It’s easy to do well, if you know how.
Make your business more successful, NOW.
To get advice and guidance on any of the
topics covered here, or any other aspect of
sales or marketing please call Mel free on
0800 44 88 309 or email [email protected]
There are many ways to promote your business. BUT DON’T DO ANYTHING without measuring the results.
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APRIL10 - Horsebridge Centre, Whitstable - THE TROUSER TRUMPETS - doors open 8pm, £5. 01227 281174
10 - The Old Neptune - EMILY AND THE BEAST - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
10 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm; CHIX WIV PIX - 9-11pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
10 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - BLONDIE - doors open at 7pm, £5.00. 01227 280280
10 - The East Kent - FALLEN ANGELS - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
11 - The Old Neptune - MIDGEN AND GIBSON - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
11 - Horsebridge Centre - THE COAL PORTERS - doors open 7pm, £12, £10 conc. 01227 281174
11 - Deco5 - FLETCH - £5. Call for details: 01227 770079
11 - The Smack - TBC - 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
12 - The Duke of Cumberland - ANDY WHITE - 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
12 - Deco5 - JAZZ JAM WITH ROGER LEWIN - bring your voice or instrument and join in! - FREE entry. Call for details: 01227 770079
12 - The Old Neptune - TBC - 5-8pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
13 - The Duke of Cumberland - THE COMPLETE UNKNOWNS (featuring Jim Leverton!) - 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
14 - Deco5 - BLUE ARCADIANS - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
16 - Deco5 - FRANCES KNIGHT AND FRIENDS - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
16 - The Ship Centurion - WILSON FORD - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
17 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm; EMILY AND THE BEAST 9-11pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
17 - The Old Neptune - PAUL ASTLER + BOBBY VALENTINO - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
17 - Horsebridge Centre - BLUE RHYTHM KINGS - doors open 7pm, £8, £6 conc. 01227 281174
17 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - RUBBER BISCUIT - doors open at 7pm. £7.50. 01227 280280
18 - The Old Neptune - CAMINE - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
18 - Deco5 - THE RENATO D’AIELLO TRIO - £10, call for details: 01227 770079
19 - The Old Neptune - JOHN ATKINSON + SPECIAL GUESTS - 5-8pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
19 - The Duke of Cumberland - MIGDEN & GIBSON - 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
21 - Deco5 - COLROSE FOUR - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
22 - The Smack - OPEN MIC NIGHT - from 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
23 - Deco5 - ANDY MACLEAN - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
23 - The Ship Centurion - RUN VT - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
24 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm; FAT RIVER BAND - 9-11pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
24 - The Old Neptune - DIVA - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
24 - Horsebridge Centre - JACK JACK AND THE HATS - show starts 8pm, £5. 01227 281174
24 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - FOOL FIGHTERS - doors open at 7pm. £5.00. 01227 280280
24 - The East Kent - GNT EXPERIMENT - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
25 - The Old Neptune - AL RICHARDSON + MATT PERCIVAL - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
25 - The East Kent - UNDERCOVER - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
25 - Deco5 - JAVAJAM - £5, call for details: 01227 770079
26 - The Old Neptune - THE DEALERS - 5-8pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
26 - The Duke of Cumberland - TBC - 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
the gig guideThis information is intended as guide only. Please check with the venues before you go as details or dates may change after printing - contact details are provided.
28 - Deco5 - BILL BARNACLE’S A1 COMBINATION - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
29 - The Smack - HOOK - 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
30 - The Ship Centurion - KELLY’S HEROES - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
30 - Deco5 - RACHEL GERRARD WITH THE ROGER ALLEN SOUND - FREE entry, call for details: 01227 770079
MAY01 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm; G ‘N’ T EXPERIMENT - 9-11pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
01 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - HULLABALOO - doors open at 7pm, £7.50. 01227 280280
01 - Horsebridge Centre - KIT CURTIS AND THE SCENE - show starts 7.45pm, £5. 01227 281174
01 - The East Kent - BODEGAS - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
01 - The Old Neptune - TBC - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
02 - The Old Neptune - JIM LEVERTON - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
02 - The East Kent - DISCO - Michael Jackson Night - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
02 - Deco5 - FLC - call for details: 01227 770079
03 - The Old Neptune - TOBY BARRELLI - 5-8pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
04 - The Duke of Cumberland - BLUES BANDITS - 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
06 - The Smack - OPEN MIC NIGHT - 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
07 - The Ship Centurion - BULLDOG DUO - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
07 - Whitstable Labour Club - FOLK MUSIC EVENING, MAGGIE BOYLE - 8-11pm, £7 (£5 club members), 01227 277670
08 - The Old Neptune - STEVE BOLTON - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
08 - Whitstable Brewery Bar - CHILLBILLIES - doors open at 7pm, £7.50. 01227 280280
08 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm; SMILER - 9-11pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
08 - The East Kent - BLACKSTAR - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
09 - Horsebridge Centre - BOUGARABOU - THE RETURN! - show starts 8pm, £12, £10 conc. 01227 281174
09 - Deco5 - BRENDAN POWER TRIO - call for details: 01227 770079
09 - The Old Neptune - TBC - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
09 - The Smack - TBC - from 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
10 - The Old Neptune - MATT BROOKS - 5-8pm, FREE entry. 01227 272262
13 - The Smack - ZINTA AND THE ZOOTS - from 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
14 - The Ship Centurion - LEIGH HIGHWOOD - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
15 - Whitstable Youth & Community Centre - FUZE - doors open 7pm, £3.50 on the door
15 - Whitstable Town Football Ground - BANDS AT THE BELMONT - RUBBER BISCUIT & HULLABALOO - Gates open at 6pm. Tickets £10 in advance or £15 on the gate. 01227 266440
15 - Horsebridge Centre - BLUE RHYTHM KINGS - show starts 8pm, £8, £6 conc. 01227 281174
15 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
16 - Horsebridge Centre - SATURDAY OUTING - show starts 8pm, £6, £4 conc. LGBT social - all gay-friendly people welcome. 01227 281174
16 -The East Kent - GET CARTER - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
16 - Deco5 - AVA LA PUTIN - call for details: 01227 770079
20 - The Smack - OPEN MIC NIGHT - from 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
21 - The Ship Centurion - MEL HARRIS - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
21 -Deco5 - STRODE PARK SUMMER SOIRE WITH HULLABALOO - call for details: 01227 770079
22 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
22 - The East Kent - SNEAKING SALLY - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
23 - The East Kent - LOST WEEKEND - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
23 - Deco5 - THE JAZZ IN PARIS PROJECT - call for details: 01227 770079
25 - The Duke of Cumberland - JIM LEVERTON & GEOFFREY RICHARDSON 3-5.30pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
27 - The Smack - CAMINE - from 9pm, FREE entry 01227 273056
28 - The Ship Centurion - THE FLING - starts 8.30-9pm, FREE entry. 01227 264 740
29 - The East Kent - THE HOOCHIES - 9pm, FREE entry. 01227 272018
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29 - The Duke of Cumberland - JAZZ BRUNCH WITH BERT BUTLER’S JAZZ PILGRIMS - 12.30-3pm, FREE entry, 01227 280617
30 - Deco5 - CORINA BOSSA & JAZZ - call for details: 01227 770079
CLASSICAL APRIL05 - CITY OF CANTERBURY CHAMBER CHOIR - St Mary-of-Charity, Faversham - 7.30pm. Music by Bob Chilcott, Maurice Durufle, Joe Duddell, William Mathias, Francis Poulenc, and Benjamin Britten. Tickets £12 (£10 concessions; £2 children) 01227 700673.
05 - STAINER’S CRUCIFIXION AND FAURE’S REQUIEM - Canterbury Cathedral. £10 for Adults, £8 concessions for OAP’s and Friends. Under 12’s free with a paying adult. 01227 464764
10 - FOLKESTONE CHORAL SOCIETY - Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone - 7.30pm. Richard Strauss - Four Last Songs & Verdi - Requiem. For more details: 01303 228600
25 - BACH, MARTINU, SCHUMANN, BRAHMS - Victoria Simonsen (Cello), Nicola Eimer (Piano) - Whitstable Methodist Church - 7.30pm, £12, full-time students £6. Children under 16 FREE when accompanied by a member. Contact Gill Smyth on 01227 277227
25 - THE DEAL AND WALMER HANDELIAN SOCIETY - St Mary’s Church, Walmer, 7.30pm, music to include Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb. More details at http://www.handeliansociety.musicnw.co.uk/handelian/index.php
26 - CAPRIOL CHAMBER CHOIR - St John the Evangelist Church, Dormansland - 7.30pm. Duruflé: Requiem; Dupre: Motets Opus 9; Widor: Surrexit a mortuis, and choral music by other French composers. 01732 866372
MAY09 - RSCM COME AND SING ‘MESSIAH’ - St Mary’s, Canterbury Road, Wingham, Kent, 3-7.30pm. For more details: 01233 820298 rscm.org.uk
If you would like to publicise your gig here please email [email protected] or write to the usual address.
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TicketS ON SALE NOW - £ 10
@ WHITSTABLE TOWNFOOTBALL GROUND
TICKETS ON SALE NOW ONLY £10@ www.eventsatthebelmont.co.uk,
Kent Estate Agencies, 10/12 High Street, Whitstable
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
To be entered into a draw to win 2 free tickets,simply send an email to [email protected]
including your name and address.
www.the-imp.co.uk
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THE MONTH AHEAD
Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 April - 7.45pm - Theatrecraft Presents ‘TIME OF MY LIFE’ by Alan Ayckbourn, at the Playhouse, Whitstable. Tickets Thursday and Friday £7, Saturday £8. Call 01227 272042.
Saturday April 18 and Saturday 2nd May Bank Holiday weekend, 10am-5pm - Seaside Brocante - St Mary’s Hall, Oxford Street (The Umbrella Centre) - Antique, Vintage: Homeware, Jewellery, Vintage/Designer clothes & Haberdashery. Call Cindy Mainwaring: 01227 773037, 07778 318319
Saturday April 18 - East Kent Model Railway Society Open Day - Info: 01227 275157, [email protected]
Friday April 24 - 8pm - Transition Town Whitstable ‘Mending Amnesty’ - call Helen on 07923 512 296 for details or go to www.transitionwhitstable.org.uk
Sunday April 26 - Karaoke at The Smack - from 8.30pm
Monday May 4 - Whitstable’s 32nd May Day Celebrations. Join the Morris Sides at 10.30 at the library, Meet the Jack in the Green at the Horse Bridge, or enjoy the Teddy Bears’ Picnic theme on the Tankerton Slopes, opposite the Castle grounds from 11am. There’s a prize for the best-dressed bear as well as entertainments, hot and cold food, and stalls of all types. For more information or to book a stall call Dixie on 01227 275959.
Monday May 11- Transition Town Whitstable Book Exchange - 8pm at the Duke of Cumberland. Contact our general number 07960 492 307 or the website www.transitionwhitstable.org.uk
Second and fourth Saturdays of each month - Whitstable Farmers’ Market - St Mary’s Hall, Oxford Street (The Umbrella Centre) 9.30am- 2pm, selling meat, fruit, vegetables, drinks, cakes, crafts and with a Fair Trade cafe on site. Becky Richards 01227 770836
Don’t forget to check out our new GIG GUIDE on pages 39 and 40 for this month’s gigs...
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Samba Pelo Mar - Whitstable’s own community samba band rehearses Tuesdays 7-9pm at Whitstable Junior School. Call 01227 281838. www.sambapelomar.com
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
Many of these activities may be term-time only, and some have waiting lists or need to be booked. Contact details are included for each listing, so please check before you arrive!
BabiesEnjoy Your Baby – Joy Lane Children’s Centre – Tuesdays – New mums should receive an invite through their Health Visitor. Call Carol Fellowes on 01227 594417 for more info
Baby bounce and rhyme – Whitstable Library, Oxford Street, first Tuesday of each month, 11-11.20am. Call 01227 273309
Breastfeeding Clinic – Joy Lane Children’s Centre – Tuesdays, monthly, by appointment only, through midwife Ursula. Call 01227 263998
Drop-in baby clinic – Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Thursday mornings, 9.30-11, no appointment necessary, just call in to see the health visitor for a chat and have your child weighed. Call 01227 263998
Baby Massage – Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Thursdays: 12-1pm appointments only; 1.30-2.30pm drop in. Call Jo on 01227 594419
Baby Massage – Whitstable Health Centre – 5-week courses, Friday mornings. 50p per session, bring your own massage oil. Call Carol Fellowes on 01227 594417 for more info
Locomotion – Joy Lane Children’s Centre - Friday mornings 10-10.45, ages 2-5 years; 11-11.30 ages 6 months - 2 years. For more information call 01227 263998
PIPS - Joy Lane Children’s Centre - for families with children 0-5 with additional needs - Friday mornings 10:00 - 12:00. For more information call 01227 263998
Parent and Toddler
Baby Ballet - Fridays 9.30am at Tankerton Dancing Academy. Activities, dance, and nursery rhymes. Contact Helena Griffiths for more details or to book your place, on 01227 275375
Twinkle Twinkle music group, fun action songs and instruments for children up to 3 years. Fridays 9.30 and 10.30am, the parish social centre, 15A Castle Road, Whitstable. Call Ava for more info on 01227 772893
Button Tots – Lucerne Neighbourhood Centre, Faversham Road, Seasalter. Monday mornings 10-12, call Jane 01227 282732 3 Years Plus Family Group – Westmeads Infant School, Cromwell Road, Monday afternoons 1.45-2.45. Children can play while parents chat and the sessions provide a gentle link to school. Call 01227 272995
Little Alfies – Seasalter Christian Centre, Faversham Road, fortnightly on Monday afternoons at 1.45, call 01227 276795
Story Time – Swalecliffe Library, Herne Bay Road, Swalecliffe, Monday afternoon 2-2.30, just come along or call 01227 792645
Messy Play Sessions – Monday afternoon 12.45- 2.45. Old clothes a requirement! Term time only. Free of charge. Joy Lane Children’s Centre – 01227 263998
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Playmates – Christian Fellowship Hall, Harbour St – Tuesday mornings 9.15-10.30 or 10.30-11.45. 50p per family. Currently full but spaces expected in New Year – call Diane Wilkin 01227 263393
Tots @ TEC – Tankerton Evangelical Church Hall, Northwood Road, Tankerton, Tuesday mornings 10-11.30, £1 per family, open to children from 0-5, call 01227 794328
Seasalter Christian Centre parent and toddler group – Faversham Road, Seasalter, Tuesday afternoons, 1.30-3, £1 per family, call Jane Myhill 01227 770257
Little Lights – St Alphege Church, High Street, every Tuesday afternoon 2-2.30pm, call 01227 770221
All Saints Parent and Toddler Group – Shirley Hall, Church Street – Wednesday afternoons, 1.15-2.45. 50p per family. Term-time only – Call Sue Smith 01227 471325 Little Oysters story time – Whitstable Museum and Gallery, last Wednesday of each month, 1.30-2.30pm, £2 per child, adults free, stories and crafts for under fives, materials and refreshments provided. Call 01227 276998
Parent and Toddler Group – Joy Lane Children’s Centre – Thursday mornings, 9-11.30 in the large crèche room. All welcome. Free of charge – 01227 263998
Parent and toddler group - Thursdays 9.30-11.30, Parish Social Centre, Castle Road. £1 per family. Call Diana on 07766 163 436
Chatterbox Baby and Toddler Group – St John’s Church Centre, St John’s Road, Swalecliffe. Friday mornings, 9.30-11.30, 50p per person including drink and biscuits, open to all with babies or pre-schoolers, call 01227 792835
Story time – Whitstable Library, Oxford Street. Friday afternoon, 2-2.30, call 01227 273309
Friday Fun Group – Middle Wall United Reformed Church – 9.30-11.30am. £1 per family. Waiting list, spaces from Spring/Summer ’09 – Contact Pat 01227 771766 or Rita 01227 263959
After-School Clubs
Whitstable Majorettes and Pom Teams - 5 years and above at St Peters Church Hall, Cromwell Street, Whitstable, Monday 4-6pm, £2 per session
FITNESS
Badminton courts at the Community College, Whitstable, are now available to hire at weekends. The courts are open to the public between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays and 10am to 1pm on Sundays. For more information or to book call Kelly Litchfield on 07880 902367
Yoga/Pilates Fitness - Mornings: Monday 10.30am, Wednesday 9.15am; Evenings: Wednesday 8pm, Thursday 8.15pm. Contact Helena Griffiths at Tankerton Dancing Academy for more details or to book your place, on 01227 275375
Salsa-Fit - Fridays 10.20am and 8pm. Contact Helena Griffiths at Tankerton Dancing Academy for more details or to book your place, on 01227 275375
Adult Ballet - Tuesdays 8pm. Contact Helena Griffiths at Tankerton Dancing Academy for more details or to book your place, on 01227 275375
Low impact keep fit - Mondays 12.15-1.15pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact Suzi 07702 386176
Yoga - Mondays 1.20-2.20pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact Suzi 07702 386176 Walk and talk - Wednesdays 10.30am from Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre – enjoy a walk, some fresh air and lively conversation!Contact centre 01227 274880 Keep Fit for over 50s and less active - Wednesdays 12.30–1.30pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact centre 01227 274880
COMMUNITY GUIDE
Clubs/Societies
Arts and crafts for adults - Thursdays 10am-12, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact centre 01227 274880
Book club - informal, fun reading group. First Thursday of each month, 6.30-9pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre. The group watch a Movie every other month. Contact centre 01227 274880 East Kent Model Railway Society - Wednesdays 7.30pm, at Club house in the Old Dairy (by Castle Stores), Castle Road, Whitstable. Large OO scale layout for members’ use. New members welcome, children (from 11+) should be accompanied by responsible adult. Open Day Saturday 18 April. Info: 01227 275157, [email protected]
Flowers and Crafts Club - Tuesdays 7-9.30pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact 01227 281138 Needles and natter - Thursdays 2.30-4.30pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact centre on 01227 274880
Oyster Lacemakers - Mondays, 4–7pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact Kay 01227 276921
Reading Group - at Swalecliffe Library - are you interested in joining? We need a minimum of 6 people. If you’d like to take part please call the library on 01227 792645
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Samba Pelo Mar Whitstable’s own community samba band rehearses Tuesdays 7-9pm at Whitstable Junior School. Call 01227 281838. www.sambapelomar.com
Scrabble Club - Mondays 10.30-12.30pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact centre 01227 274880
Short Mat Bowls - Friday and Sunday evenings, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact Eddie 01227 794600
‘Stitch and Bitch’ Knit Club - Wednesdays 6.30-8.30pm at The Archive Film Cafe, 39 Oxford Street. Call Sue Allen on 07592 020120
Walk and Talk - Wednesdays 10.30am from Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre – enjoy a walk, some fresh air and lively conversation!Contact centre 01227 274880
Whitstable Stroke Club - Fridays 3.30-5.30pm, Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Contact Avril 01227 266827
Health
Whitstable Health Centre – 0844 477 2566
Chestfield Medical Centre – 0844 477 3073
Out of Hours service – 0844 800 1234
NHS Direct - including Out of Hours Dispensing Pharmacies - 0845 46 47
Blood Donation – 08457 711 711
Stop Smoking Service - NHS Eastern and Coastal Kent - 0800 849 4444
NHS Patient Advice and Liaison Service - do you have a health-related problem and don’t know where to turn? For help finding your way through the local NHS - 0800 085 6606
Information and Advice
Dial Kent - information and advice for the disabled people of Kent - Disability Information and Advice Line - Tel: 01227 771155, Minicom: 01227 771645, Fax: 01227 772631, email: [email protected], website: www.dialkent.co.uk
NHS Patient Advice and Liaison Service - do you have a health-related problem and don’t know where to turn? For help finding your way through the local NHS - 0800 085 6606
Local Policing
Police surgeries and meetings: www.kent.police.co.uk
Inspector for Whitstable: Gordon Etheridge, with Sergeant Dave Brenchley on 01227 868028
Chestfield - PC: Steve Pope 01227 868028; PCSO: Mark Harriott 07772 226106
Gorrell - PCSO: Abi Symons 01227 868028
Harbour - PC: Andy Camp 07980 683530; PCSO: Aaron Pedwell 07772 226035
Seasalter & Yorkletts - CSO: Aarron Newell 01227 868028
Swalecliffe & Tankerton - PC: Steve Pope 01227 868028; PCSO: Graeme Downes 01227 868028
Volunteer Services
Are you elderly or disabled and can’t access public transport? Call the Whitstable Volunteer Car Scheme on 01227 264743
Volunteers Needed
Whitstable Volunteer Car Scheme - Volunteer drivers needed to take elderly or disabled to appointments they can’t miss. If you have time to volunteer please call 01227 264743
Whitstable Volunteer Centre - Volunteers recruited to work in many different charities. Contact [email protected] or call 01227 772248
Do you have a little time to spare? Age Concern Whitstable are looking for volunteers who could help with any of the following: befriending, escorting on their mini bus, day centre helper or lead a health walk. Call Gill Ball on 01227 787313 or 07735556811, or email [email protected]
LOCAL SERVICES
Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture - Nathalie Bachet - Member of the British Acupuncture Council - Gift vouchers available for acupuncture and facial revitalisation acupuncture. Please call Nathalie on 01227 265 708
Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Ear Candles, Hot Stone Massage, Indian Head Massage. In the comfort of your own home or in Debra’s therapy room. Call Debra Maybourne, Holistic Therapist, 01227 276 881 or 07872 622 023
Hypnotherapy at Q Hypnotherapy, based in Whitstable. Details at www.Qhypnotherapy.co.uk. Call Lisa Barnett on 0800 612 8153
Hypnotherapy for Smoking is the least expensive within a 20 mile radius. Based in Chestfield. Call Peter Corrigan on 01227 792359 or email: [email protected]
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Reflexology at Body Mind and SOLE - Denise Fasulo, MAR (Member of the Association of Reflexologists). Professional treatment in pleasant surroundings. Call Whitstable 01227 275855
THE ACUPUNCTURE PLACE, WHITSTABLE - Acupuncture for pain relief, migraines, sciatica, back pain. Specialising in gynaecogical, fertility and IVF support. Member of BAcC. Contact: Amanda Thomas Tel:01227 265082 Mob:07763 566710 www.acupunctureplace.co.uk
THE HOLISTIC HEALTH PLACE, WHITSTABLE - Treatments available for adults & children. Homeopathy, Craniosacral Therapy, QX Allergy & Health Testing. Contact: Annette Stein - Tel:01227 265082 Mob:07813778027
Beauticians
Bbeautiful - your local mobile beauty therapist. Facials, Waxing, Manicures, Pedicures and Lash/Brow Tints in the comfort of your own home. Bridal make-up and occassional make-up packages, Pamper parties and gift vouchers are available. Contact Rachel on Tel: 01227 272 579 Mob: 07784 223287
Catering
Chrissie’s Kitchen - cakes, cookies, cupcakes and more. Specialising in gluten-free, supplying local cafes and restaurants, also available to cater for birthdays, weddings, christenings and any special occasion. Call Chrissie on 07511 009 757
Computer Repair
Whitstable Computer Repair - All types of help with your PC, no call-out fee within 10 mile radius of Whitstable. Very competitive rates. www.WhitstableComputerRepair.co.uk or call 0800 224 8824
Curtain Making
Affordable bespoke curtain and blind making service. Free estimates and measuring service. Co-ordinated soft furnishings, kitchenware and fabric gifts. Fabric also available to buy. Call Karen Mansfield Originals 01795 535348 or 07903 193390
Counselling
Whitstable Counselling and Psychotherapy Centre. Feeling unable to cope and need somebody to talk to and think things through? Contact Deborah Gibbons on 01227 261159. Reduced rates for unemployed or those on low incomes
Financial
Beat the Mortgage Credit Crunch. Don’t believe all you hear and read. Mortgages/Remortgages readily available. Call for an independent, unbiased, up-to-date quotation - Meridian Consutants, Independent Mortgage Specialists on 01227 266644
Garden Design
Tranquil Earth Natural Garden Design Specializing in creating traditional and contemporary gardens, built with respect for the environment and to encourage wildlife. Visit www.kentgardendesigner.co.uk for garden ideas
Local Lettings
Hillcross Holiday Homes - holiday properties for rent. Deborah Mylcrist 01227 277883, 272261; 07841 021207
‘Stowaways’ Holiday Cottage. Newly renovated, comfortable 2 bedroom accommodation available for short breaks or weekly lets. Central, 2 mins from town centre, beach & harbour. For photos, search well-known internet site for ‘Whitstable Holiday Cottage’ or call 01227 264719
Parties Candles and Home Accessories. Quality fragrant candles in a variety of shapes, colours and sizes. Tri-Glow Reed Diffusers. Have an evening/coffee morning with friends and host a candle party. Monthly Hostess/Guest specials. Call: Karen 07958 575980 www.candlesulite.com
Bbeautiful - your local mobile beauty therapist. Facials, Waxing, Manicures, Pedicures and Lash/Brow Tints in the comfort of your own home. Bridal make-up and occassional make-up packages, Pamper parties and gift vouchers are available. Contact Rachel on Tel: 01227 272 579 Mob: 07784 223287
Recycling/Waste Reduction
Help with all aspects of recycling at home, school and in the workplace, including electrical items, go to www.recycle-more.co.uk
The Freecycle Network - an entirely non-profit movement of people who are giving (& getting) stuff for free in their own towns. It’s all about re-use and keeping good stuff out of landfills. See more details at www.freecycle.org
Real Nappy Helpline 0845 850 0606; Nappy Finder: www.realnappycampaign.com/nappyfinder
Council Services - Recycling Information: 01227 862 247; Recycling Collections, Banks, Sacks; Domestic Refuse Collection; Dog Fouling: 0800 031 9091; or email [email protected]
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Listings of 40 words cost £15 for one month, £30 for 3 months or £50 for 6 months. Non-profit organisations are listed free of charge. To be included please email [email protected] or write to the usual address.
Please do let us know if any details change so we are not publishing out-dated information
For display advertising please contact [email protected] or call freephone 0800 44 88 309. In all cases, if you would rather write, our address is: The Whitstable IMP, PO Box 290, Whitstable, CT5 9AH.
Retailers
Allbits Plumbing Supplies Ltd - visit our showroom or call now for great bathroom offers: 01227 281 648
Crackin’ Glass - FREE ESTIMATES on replacement single pane glass of all types. To book a free quotation, call 01227 711151
Herne Bay Mobility - Visit the showroom or call for a free catalogue or to arrange a free demonstration on 01227 710055
Home Choice Carpets - Specialist home pattern service for all carpets, vinyls, laminates, woods and rugs. Free underlay, grippers, door bars and fitting on ALL CARPETS. Call for a free estimate on 01227 265544 or 07860 358552
Invicta Gas Ltd - Save up to 40% on your gas bill with a new boiler. Call today for a FREE home quotation: 01227 770 510
The Kitchen Door Company - Why buy a new kitchen when you can change your doors? Over 30 designs in 45 different colours. Doors made to measure. Call 01227 791 850 or 07872 610 326
Ripple Farm Organics - Local and organic vegetable box scheme - weekly delivery to 4 collection points in Whitstable (& other deliveries in East Kent). Visit www.ripplefarmorganics.co.uk or call 01227 730 898 and leave a message
Sunlock Blinds - Blinds for home conservatory or office. Made to measure, vertical, venetians, wooden, rollers, fly-screens, outside canopies. Home visits arranged, free no obligation quotes. Free fitting service. Family-run business 32 years, 01227 281191; 07828 564082
Weddings
Classical Wedding Singer - Make your day really special with beautiful classical music - available for weddings, christenings and any special occasion. Call Christina on 07511 009 757 or listen at www.myspace.com/christinabosanko
Club Class Carriages - Bentleys and Jaguars or the vehicle of your choice, for weddings and special occasions, with a Prestige service all year round. Call 0800 6118 528 or go to www.clubclasscarriages.co.uk for more details
StuArt Photography - Available for weddings & special occasions; studio bookings or in the comfort of your own home. Call for pricing or booking on 07922 535 438
FURTHER AFIELD
Golf
Canterbury Golf Club - less than 25 minutes from Whitstable Town Centre. A Harry Colt Designed Course. 01227 453532
Holiday Lets
Spain - spacious holiday bungalow to rent in Torrevieja Costa Blanca. Sleeps 6 (3 bedrooms). Fully-equipped, close to town and beaches, 50 yds from communal swimming pools and bar serving hot food till 2am. For more details ring Carol, 01227 770581
Italy - B&B and Self Catering accommodation, near to the beaches, mountains and hilltop towns of Abruzzo. Go to www.shanticentre.com or call 003 908 587 08 273 for further information
Relaxing breaks
Yoga Holidays at shanticentre.com - half-price yoga holidays available for September 2009. Go to www.shanticentre.com or call 003 908 587 08 273 for further information or to book your place
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