Events | rogergale

Events

	At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker	At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker
At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker	At 12.15 on 12th February 1942 six Swordfish aircraft from 825 Royal Naval Air Squadron took off from Manston airfield to attack and try to intercept three German battleships steaming up the channel from Brest to their home base in Kiel.	The attack was led by Lt. Cdre. Eugene Esmonde VC, DCO - all six aircraft, engaged in what became known as the Channel Dash, were lost.
It was an honour and a privilege to be invited to witness the unveiling in the grounds of the Spitfire and Hurricane memorial museum, by centenarian Admiral John Roberts, CB, of a new memorial to those bravest of the brave who sacrificed their lives.		I caught up with Sue Chandler and Charlie Dunn at Chandler and Dunn’s Open Farm Sunday event at Lower Goldstone (profits and donations to local charities).
Hundreds of people were enjoying the tractor rides and catering and Sam Dunn tempted me to try their Jazz Apple - seriously one of the best I have ever tasted. (Available in supermarkets - buy Kentish not imported).	Finally I caught up with our Preston neighbour George Jenkins who has retired from the health service and is now keeping his hives in C&D’s orchards and making wonderful honey.	Definitely a family outing for next year’s diary!
Yesterday I joined Maya Amangeldiyeva for the launch of her exhibition of art and the words of some of her volunteers at Beach Creative in Herne Bay. Some very moving (anonymous) stories of the experiences of Maya’s small army of helpers- many of whom were present. Drop into the gallery and take a look.	Yesterday I joined Maya Amangeldiyeva for the launch of her exhibition of art and the words of some of her volunteers at Beach Creative in Herne Bay. Some very moving (anonymous) stories of the experiences of Maya’s small army of helpers- many of whom were present. Drop into the gallery and take a look.	Yesterday I joined Maya Amangeldiyeva for the launch of her exhibition of art and the words of some of her volunteers at Beach Creative in Herne Bay. Some very moving (anonymous) stories of the experiences of Maya’s small army of helpers- many of whom were present. Drop into the gallery and take a look.
Yesterday I joined Maya Amangeldiyeva for the launch of her exhibition of art and the words of some of her volunteers at Beach Creative in Herne Bay. Some very moving (anonymous) stories of the experiences of Maya’s small army of helpers- many of whom were present. Drop into the gallery and take a look.	An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson.	An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson. Opening hours tomorrow
An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson. Opening hours tomorrow	An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson. Opening hours tomorrow	An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson. Opening hours tomorrow
An excellent medieval festival of music, armoury, lifestyles and of course mead and ales in Sandwich this weekend. The rain kept off on Saturday and better weather is forecast for Sunday - so still time to enjoy the show. Good to catch up with the Town Mayor of Sandwich, Emmet Csuka, the recently retired Speaker of the Cinque ports, Cllr Paul Carter in full medieval rig and Mine host at the Blushing Maiden Inn and one of the driving forces behind the event, Harry Sampson. Opening hours tomorrow	A wonderfully sunny day for The East Kent MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Group annual picnic at Pegwell Bay Country Park. Judy and Dot and many members are a great resource for those with MS and their families. If that is you do get in touch	Celebrating Bowls Big weekend with the Chairman and members of the Minster Bowls Club. Keep bowling!
I shall continue to salute the Ukrainian flag with pride. Some of us know who our friends are and the Putin-admiring leader of Reform is not one of them!	Reviving Henry Smith’s campaign to ban UK hunting trophy imports with the Humane World for Animals UK. A stunning and shaming display in the Churchill Room of animal body parts seized at Heathrow Airport and photographed by the award- winning wildlife photojournalist Britta Jaschinski (@Britta.jaschinski.photography). We have to get this Bill, blocked in the last parliament by a handful of Lords, through both Houses and onto the statute book.	Reviving Henry Smith’s campaign to ban UK hunting trophy imports with the Humane World for Animals UK. A stunning and shaming display in the Churchill Room of animal body parts seized at Heathrow Airport and photographed by the award- winning wildlife photojournalist Britta Jaschinski (@Britta.jaschinski.photography). We have to get this Bill, blocked in the last parliament by a handful of Lords, through both Houses and onto the statute book.
Reviving Henry Smith’s campaign to ban UK hunting trophy imports with the Humane World for Animals UK. A stunning and shaming display in the Churchill Room of animal body parts seized at Heathrow Airport and photographed by the award- winning wildlife photojournalist Britta Jaschinski (@Britta.jaschinski.photography). We have to get this Bill, blocked in the last parliament by a handful of Lords, through both Houses and onto the statute book.	Reviving Henry Smith’s campaign to ban UK hunting trophy imports with the Humane World for Animals UK. A stunning and shaming display in the Churchill Room of animal body parts seized at Heathrow Airport and photographed by the award- winning wildlife photojournalist Britta Jaschinski (@Britta.jaschinski.photography). We have to get this Bill, blocked in the last parliament by a handful of Lords, through both Houses and onto the statute book.	Reviving Henry Smith’s campaign to ban UK hunting trophy imports with the Humane World for Animals UK. A stunning and shaming display in the Churchill Room of animal body parts seized at Heathrow Airport and photographed by the award- winning wildlife photojournalist Britta Jaschinski (@Britta.jaschinski.photography). We have to get this Bill, blocked in the last parliament by a handful of Lords, through both Houses and onto the statute book.
Brian Homewood and his team from the Rotary Club of Margate have staged their sixteenth successive Young Artists Festival with impressive entries from primary and secondary schools across Thanet.	It was good to join the award winners, highly commended, exhibitors and proud families at the Westwood Cross Sainsbury’s who once again hosted the exhibition, for the presentation of their 2025 certificates.	The very high standards made judging an almost impossible task so thanks to those who undertook this job.
Pictured with Brian are some of the winning entries and some of my personal choices which include two works by young visitors from Ukraine now living in Birchington.	The Innovation Kitchen, launched today at the East Kent Colleges’ Yarrow Hotel is a truly amazing facility. Small entrepreneurial businesses can hire the kitchen to use top-of-the range equipment to make for marketing products hitherto created in domestic kitchens. And Daphne (pictured), who herself runs a small culinary business is on hand to offer encouragement and advice. The Innovation Kitchen has been described by one freshly enrolled user as ‘a game changer for our region’ - Get cooking!	Congratulations and best wishes to the new Town Mayor of Sandwich The Rt. Worshipful Cllr Emmet Csuka and to the new Lady Mayoress and his wife, Elaine. They took the oaths of office at the Guildhall in Sandwich yesterday evening. Thanks also to the retiring Mayor, Cllr. Paul Carter for his two years of service in the post and for his sterling work and the Speaker of the Cinque Ports. A job very well done.
A good attendance for the popular Elmstone Summer Fayre. Pictured are Cllr Trevor Bartlett (Dover) at the plant stall, Sue Chandler with the Chairman of the Parish Council, Suzy Gale and friends and huge thanks to those who toiled over burgers, hot dogs, cold drinks, cream teas and the world’s finest pie stall. I also took part in the Park Farm Riding School Hobby Horse steeplechase at the Elmstone Village Fayre Fastest time 11” Josh Gale 12” Safi Gale 13” Roger Gale 45” Slowest 53”	So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.	A good attendance for the popular Elmstone Summer Fayre. Pictured are Cllr Trevor Bartlett (Dover) at the plant stall, Sue Chandler with the Chairman of the Parish Council, Suzy Gale and friends and huge thanks to those who toiled over burgers, hot dogs, cold drinks, cream teas and the world’s finest pie stall. I also took part in the Park Farm Riding School Hobby Horse steeplechase at the Elmstone Village Fayre Fastest time 11” Josh Gale 12” Safi Gale 13” Roger Gale 45” Slowest 53”
So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.	A good attendance for the popular Elmstone Summer Fayre. Pictured are Cllr Trevor Bartlett (Dover) at the plant stall, Sue Chandler with the Chairman of the Parish Council, Suzy Gale and friends and huge thanks to those who toiled over burgers, hot dogs, cold drinks, cream teas and the world’s finest pie stall. I also took part in the Park Farm Riding School Hobby Horse steeplechase at the Elmstone Village Fayre Fastest time 11” Josh Gale 12” Safi Gale 13” Roger Gale 45” Slowest 53”	So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.
In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.	In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.	In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.
In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.	Yesterday, I finished the VE Day 80th anniversary celebrations in Minster. Cllr John Quittenden read the proclamation and at 9.30 the beacon on the church roared into life as the maroons sounded. And my friends the Sisters from the abbey were present to celebrate not only the anniversary of VE Day but the election of Leo the Fourteenth as their new Holy Father. A fitting end to a magnificent day of commemoration. “When you go home tell them of us and say For your tomorrow we gave our today“ We	We shall always remember them.
We shall always remember them.	The hoisting of the VE Day ensign at Birchington with Flagmaster Captain John Lewis MN, the reading of the Churchill’s address following the German surrender by Lieutenant Colonel Cllr Max Houghton in the presence of the Royal British Legion and Birchington Standards and a gathering of service veterans including Derek Crow Brown.	The hoisting of the VE Day ensign at Birchington with Flagmaster Captain John Lewis MN, the reading of the Churchill’s address following the German surrender by Lieutenant Colonel Cllr Max Houghton in the presence of the Royal British Legion and Birchington Standards and a gathering of service veterans including Derek Crow Brown.
The hoisting of the VE Day ensign at Birchington with Flagmaster Captain John Lewis MN, the reading of the Churchill’s address following the German surrender by Lieutenant Colonel Cllr Max Houghton in the presence of the Royal British Legion and Birchington Standards and a gathering of service veterans including Derek Crow Brown.	The hoisting of the VE Day ensign at Birchington with Flagmaster Captain John Lewis MN, the reading of the Churchill’s address following the German surrender by Lieutenant Colonel Cllr Max Houghton in the presence of the Royal British Legion and Birchington Standards and a gathering of service veterans including Derek Crow Brown.	On this day 80 years ago Sir Winston Churchill said “This is your victory, victory of the cause of freedom in every land. In all our long history we have never seen a greater day than this.” I, along with my constituents across Herne Bay, Sandwich and West Thanet give our thanks to those tens of thousands of men and women who fought for freedom. Their courage in the face of unimaginable hardship must never be forgotten.
Mr Speaker Hoyle launches the page-turning ceremony with his chaplain, Canon Mark Birch, in the Book of Remembrance in the House of Commons. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by a bugler from the Scots Guards. This week we remember Major Lord Apsley, Colonel James Baldwin Webb, Captain Robert Hamilton Bernard, Commander Rupert Arnold Brabner RN, John Dermot Campbell MP and Major John Hamilton Cartland . The page will now be turned on every sitting Wednesday.	Mr Speaker Hoyle launches the page-turning ceremony with his chaplain, Canon Mark Birch, in the Book of Remembrance in the House of Commons. The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by a bugler from the Scots Guards. This week we remember Major Lord Apsley, Colonel James Baldwin Webb, Captain Robert Hamilton Bernard, Commander Rupert Arnold Brabner RN, John Dermot Campbell MP and Major John Hamilton Cartland . The page will now be turned on every sitting Wednesday.	A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!
A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!	A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!	A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!
The sun may be shining but all in the garden of England is not lovely: Biosecurity is important but it seems that post-Brexit Border Control Posts (BCPs) are adding costs damaging delays and more administrative bureaucracy which, coupled with wage increases and the rise in National Insurance have added tens of millions of pounds to the price of supplying our plants. Has a garden centre recently closed near you?	Another excellent display of military vehicles together with stalls and live period entertainment on the quay at Sandwich (also Sunday 4th and Bank Holiday Monday 5th) organised by Simon Mallett to whom the town owes a big thank you. Beer tent run by Sandwich Medieval Trust. Sandwich Salutes the 40s is not to be missed if you are in East Kent this weekend.	Another excellent display of military vehicles together with stalls and live period entertainment on the quay at Sandwich (also Sunday 4th and Bank Holiday Monday 5th) organised by Simon Mallett to whom the town owes a big thank you. Beer tent run by Sandwich Medieval Trust. Sandwich Salutes the 40s is not to be missed if you are in East Kent this weekend.
A good start to the bank holiday weekend with the monthly Preston Village Breakfast. Huge thanks to Hoath for organising a VE Day coffee morning and thank you celebration for Alan Marsh who has retired after twenty years of dedicated service as a Kent County Councillor. A plant sale and gathering with Cllr Trevor Bartlett and Cllr Martin Porter at the village hall in Ash and then a morning surgery in Birchington with Cllr George Kup in attendance.	🎉 John Kemp Funeral Directors in Herne Bay is Officially Reopened! 🎉	🎉 John Kemp Funeral Directors in Herne Bay is Officially Reopened! 🎉
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Happy St George’s Day!🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿	Meeting with the ZeroAvia team at the ADS Aerospace Manufactures’ exhibition in Portcullis House this week. Part of ZeroAvia’s development of hydrogen- electric aero engines is being carried out at Discovery Park in Sandwich. With certification imminent and short-haul aircraft expected to be in service by 2026/27 we can look forward to clean freight and passenger planes flying in and out of a re-opened Manston airport by the end of the decade.	Thanks to Josie (quiz designer) Karin (number cruncher and Tom (Preston Summerfest) for another successful quiz night. The ultimate beneficiaries will be Demelza House, The Pilgrims Hospice and Preston Village School. Much fun, useful funds and a variation on the Easter Bonnet parade!
Thanks to Josie (quiz designer) Karin (number cruncher and Tom (Preston Summerfest) for another successful quiz night. The ultimate beneficiaries will be Demelza House, The Pilgrims Hospice and Preston Village School. Much fun, useful funds and a variation on the Easter Bonnet parade!	With the Prostate Cancer testing facility in Speaker’s Court. Quite simply, testing and early diagnosis saves lives. I have been tested. Have you?	A moving presentation by Lord Ricketts, former UK Ambassador to France, on behalf of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission at The Royal United Services Institute this week. Thousands of British and Commonwealth fallen are commemorated at the British Memorial in Normandy (pictured).
Those service men and women gave their lives defending the cause of democracy in two World Wars.	More recently on European soil, many thousands of brave Ukrainians have been sacrificed defending their country and their freedom. Mr Trump needs to be reminded that ‘peace at any price’ will never last and that Britain, France and Germany will surely not recognise a surrender to Putin enforced by the United States .	A useful but sobering meeting with Mo Razzaq, President of the Federation of Independent Retailers in the House this week. Retail crime, sometimes violent, remains an issue but the effects of the increase in National Insurance charges, energy prices and business rates as well as the above inflation increase in the minimum wage all arise from the policies of the present Government and pose a real threat to many of the smaller High Street businesses upon which we still depend.
A pleasure to host Lions Clubs International’s Lions Day with the United Nations this week and to welcome so many visitors from Overseas including Past International President Lion Douglas X Alexander who presented young Reuben with his winning peace poster award. Also great support from the founder of Birmingham for Ukraine, Simone Sherman	A pleasure to host Lions Clubs International’s Lions Day with the United Nations this week and to welcome so many visitors from Overseas including Past International President Lion Douglas X Alexander who presented young Reuben with his winning peace poster award. Also great support from the founder of Birmingham for Ukraine, Simone Sherman	Congratulations to Grace Paget on a convincing win in the Herne and Broomfield (Canterbury City Council) by-election. Grace will make a great addition to the Conservative team led by Rachel Carnac.
Congratulations to Grace Paget on a convincing win in the Herne and Broomfield (Canterbury City Council) by-election. Grace will make a great addition to the Conservative team led by Rachel Carnac.	Congratulations to the Director, cast and crew of Ali Baba and the Four and a Half Thieves, the twenty-sixth fundraising Kent Police pantomime. This year the show has realised valuable support for STAK. life, Thanet Community First Responders and the Kent Prostate Cancer Support Association and it was a chance for Suzy and myself to catch up with some old friends - in rather different uniforms.	Congratulations to the Director, cast and crew of Ali Baba and the Four and a Half Thieves, the twenty-sixth fundraising Kent Police pantomime. This year the show has realised valuable support for STAK. life, Thanet Community First Responders and the Kent Prostate Cancer Support Association and it was a chance for Suzy and myself to catch up with some old friends - in rather different uniforms.
With the Catapult Network at the Palace of Westminster. They say: “Catapults provide businesses with access to their expertise and facilities enabling them to test, demonstrate and improve their ideas. Catapults foster collaboration between industry, government,research organisations, academia and many others.” Find them at md.catapult.org.uk	At the National Association of Local Councils Star Council Awards in the House of Lords with Birchington Councillor Neville Hudson and Charmaine Keatley, CEO of three Kent Association of Local Councils.	The road between Gore Street and Wingham has been passable since Friday 14th but Southern Water’s road closure signs were still in place at lunchtime today (Monday). Meanwhile buses and cars are being diverted and pubs and shops are losing business. I trust that the CEO of SW will, as I have requested, be paying a four figure sum in compensation - out of his own salary!
A very well attended and by all accounts highly informative Ash Wildlife Day coordinated by Leanne Steed (and thanks to Ash Councillor Martin Porter for introducing us) and addressed by ‘The batman’ (Dr John Puckett - pictured) and Martin Newcombe of the East Kent Badger network. Good to see Ash Scouts well represented and to meet up with Louise Venny from the Parish Council. Photos with John Puckett and Leanne Steed and Louise Venny.	A very well attended and by all accounts highly informative Ash Wildlife Day coordinated by Leanne Steed (and thanks to Ash Councillor Martin Porter for introducing us) and addressed by ‘The batman’ (Dr John Puckett - pictured) and Martin Newcombe of the East Kent Badger network. Good to see Ash Scouts well represented and to meet up with Louise Venny from the Parish Council. Photos with John Puckett and Leanne Steed and Louise Venny.	Today marks the 50th Anniversary of the selection of Margaret Thatcher as the Leader of the Conservative Party- an event that changed the future of the United Kingdom and, arguably, of the world. In the ensuing fifty years Britain has had three Conservative women Prime Ministers and one future woman Prime Minister. The Labour Party has had none!
In Whitehall today to support Kent’s family farmers. They will be back - and we will be backing them - until Reeves and Starmer abandon their attacks on the people who produce the food on our tables.	In Whitehall today to support Kent’s family farmers. They will be back - and we will be backing them - until Reeves and Starmer abandon their attacks on the people who produce the food on our tables.	A packed hall for the Thanet Big Sing Community Choir under the Musical Direction of Tony Castro at the Birchington Village Centre this weekend. Tony says that ‘The ability to sing is within us all’ - but he clearly hasn’t heard me! Contact Gilly Vass (Chairman) on 07810 372505 if you’d like to join.
A packed hall for the Thanet Big Sing Community Choir under the Musical Direction of Tony Castro at the Birchington Village Centre this weekend. Tony says that ‘The ability to sing is within us all’ - but he clearly hasn’t heard me! Contact Gilly Vass (Chairman) on 07810 372505 if you’d like to join.	Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.	Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.
Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.	Early bird tickets are now on sale for the second instalment of this family friendly music festival in the village of Preston near Canterbury. They have fantastic bands and DJs - Toploader, Hullabaloo, Shiva and The Petebox to name a few… The festival is raising money for Demelza and Pilgrims Hospices. It is over the August bank holiday and tickets are very reasonable - Kids under 12 go free and teenager tickets are great value. You can find ticket details via their website	Today on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, which we now recognise as Holocaust Memorial Day, we remember all those murdered during the Holocaust.
Huge thanks to Age Concern for hosting my ‘Advice Surgery’ in Sandwich and also to County Councillor Sue Chandler and Dover Councillors Martin Porter (Little Stour and Ashstone) and Dan Friend (Sandwich) for joining to support me with their advice. The next Sandwich surgery will be again held at Age Concern from 2pm on Friday 4th April. Please call Suzy on 01843-848588 for an appointment or for my regular weekly ‘surgeries’ on Saturday mornings at The Old Forge in Birchington.		Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography
Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography	Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography	Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography
Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography	Good to join Archbishop Nikitas of Thyateira, the Chairman and elders of the Margate Greek Cypriot and many civic dignitaries to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the Blessing of the Seas this weekend. May this also be the year in which we see real progress in talks to secure, in the interests of international security, a fully united Republic of Cyprus. Photo credit - Frank Leppard photography	On Saturday I was with Little Stour and Ashstone (Dover) Cllr Trevor Bartlett and Dover’s Community Safety Team Leader Elliott Allen and the ‘Roots’ Community Bus at Preston Village Hall for the first visit of 2025. An excellent mobile information service - thanks, Elliott, for turning out on a chilly New Year’s morning!
May you have a happy and prosperous New Year! I wish you all the best in the coming year. 🎆 Happy New Year to you all 🎆	Rest in Peace Jimmy Carter. A decent, honest, determined and underestimated President of the United States who worked to re-establish the credibility of the White House. It was a privilege to work alongside him as an election observer in Mozambique: his corps of young volunteers were an example of what just one man with high ideals can do to enhance the cause of democracy.	Suzy, Team Gale and myself would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Please support East Kent’s Young Farmers at Manston Airport from 1pm this afternoon. Santa’s Grotto, donkeys and at 4.15pm the illuminated tractor parade. Entrance and parking just past the old passenger terminal on the right.	Please support East Kent’s Young Farmers at Manston Airport from 1pm this afternoon. Santa’s Grotto, donkeys and at 4.15pm the illuminated tractor parade. Entrance and parking just past the old passenger terminal on the right.	It is twenty four years since Police Constable Jon Odell was killed while on active service as a Police Officer in Margate. In the words, today, of the police chaplain Dennis Hartley:
“For those who worked alongside Jon Odell the memories of that day in December continue to live in their hearts and minds. As the sands of time flow ever faster, and his former colleagues move on or retire, it is important that the ultimate sacrifice that Jon made is never forgotten and that his baton is passed on to the new and future generations of police officers“.	Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?	Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?
Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?	Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?	Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?
Starmer told the House at question time today that not many farmers would be affected by his ‘Family Farm Tax’. The message from farmers in Whitehall this afternoon - Parliament is sealed off - suggests a rather different view of the reality! Meanwhile Chancellor ‘The Grinch’ Reeves keeps ploughing on. Winter Fuel Allowance. Taxing Family farms and family businesses, staffing in care homes and children’s hospices. A recipe for ‘growth’? I don’t think so.	And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.	And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.
And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.	And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.	A very civilised debate on assisted suicide in the Commons today. I opposed the motion, but the Bill has got its Second Reading and will now go into Committee. There is a very long way to go before the Bill becomes law.

At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker

At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker

At the Sturry and Broadoak Residents Association summer fete at St. Nicholas Church with members of the committee. Plenty to see and do and excellent organ recital from Steve Barker

At 12.15 on 12th February 1942 six Swordfish aircraft from 825 Royal Naval Air Squadron took off from Manston airfield to attack and try to intercept three German battleships steaming up the channel from Brest to their home base in Kiel.

The attack was led by Lt. Cdre. Eugene Esmonde VC, DCO - all six aircraft, engaged in what became known as the Channel Dash, were lost.

It was an honour and a privilege to be invited to witness the unveiling in the grounds of the Spitfire and Hurricane memorial museum, by centenarian Admiral John Roberts, CB, of a new memorial to those bravest of the brave who sacrificed their lives.

I caught up with Sue Chandler and Charlie Dunn at Chandler and Dunn’s Open Farm Sunday event at Lower Goldstone (profits and donations to local charities).

Hundreds of people were enjoying the tractor rides and catering and Sam Dunn tempted me to try their Jazz Apple - seriously one of the best I have ever tasted. (Available in supermarkets - buy Kentish not imported).

Finally I caught up with our Preston neighbour George Jenkins who has retired from the health service and is now keeping his hives in C&D’s orchards and making wonderful honey.

Definitely a family outing for next year’s diary!

A wonderfully sunny day for The East Kent MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Group annual picnic at Pegwell Bay Country Park. Judy and Dot and many members are a great resource for those with MS and their families. If that is you do get in touch

Celebrating Bowls Big weekend with the Chairman and members of the Minster Bowls Club. Keep bowling!

I shall continue to salute the Ukrainian flag with pride. Some of us know who our friends are and the Putin-admiring leader of Reform is not one of them!

Brian Homewood and his team from the Rotary Club of Margate have staged their sixteenth successive Young Artists Festival with impressive entries from primary and secondary schools across Thanet.

It was good to join the award winners, highly commended, exhibitors and proud families at the Westwood Cross Sainsbury’s who once again hosted the exhibition, for the presentation of their 2025 certificates.

The very high standards made judging an almost impossible task so thanks to those who undertook this job.

Pictured with Brian are some of the winning entries and some of my personal choices which include two works by young visitors from Ukraine now living in Birchington.

So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.

So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.

So I did not even pick up the wooden spoon! A great way to round off VE week.

In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.

In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.

In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.

In Sandwich for the raising of the Union Flag followed by a Service of Remembrance led by Father Sebastian from St Clement’s Church at the Town War Memorial. Tributes laid by the Royal British Legion, Sue Chandler and others.

We shall always remember them.

We shall always remember them.

A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!

A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!

A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!

A splendid VE Day celebratory ‘street party’ organised by Wingham WI in the village hall with chocolate ‘rations’ for the children. Hard to remember how far you can make two ounces of chocolate go!

🎉 John Kemp Funeral Directors in Herne Bay is Officially Reopened! 🎉

🎉 John Kemp Funeral Directors in Herne Bay is Officially Reopened! 🎉

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Happy St George’s Day!🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Thanks to Josie (quiz designer) Karin (number cruncher and Tom (Preston Summerfest) for another successful quiz night. The ultimate beneficiaries will be Demelza House, The Pilgrims Hospice and Preston Village School. Much fun, useful funds and a variation on the Easter Bonnet parade!

Thanks to Josie (quiz designer) Karin (number cruncher and Tom (Preston Summerfest) for another successful quiz night. The ultimate beneficiaries will be Demelza House, The Pilgrims Hospice and Preston Village School. Much fun, useful funds and a variation on the Easter Bonnet parade!

With the Prostate Cancer testing facility in Speaker’s Court. Quite simply, testing and early diagnosis saves lives. I have been tested. Have you?

A moving presentation by Lord Ricketts, former UK Ambassador to France, on behalf of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission at The Royal United Services Institute this week. Thousands of British and Commonwealth fallen are commemorated at the British Memorial in Normandy (pictured).

Those service men and women gave their lives defending the cause of democracy in two World Wars.

Congratulations to Grace Paget on a convincing win in the Herne and Broomfield (Canterbury City Council) by-election. Grace will make a great addition to the Conservative team led by Rachel Carnac.

Congratulations to Grace Paget on a convincing win in the Herne and Broomfield (Canterbury City Council) by-election. Grace will make a great addition to the Conservative team led by Rachel Carnac.

At the National Association of Local Councils Star Council Awards in the House of Lords with Birchington Councillor Neville Hudson and Charmaine Keatley, CEO of three Kent Association of Local Councils.

In Whitehall today to support Kent’s family farmers. They will be back - and we will be backing them - until Reeves and Starmer abandon their attacks on the people who produce the food on our tables.

In Whitehall today to support Kent’s family farmers. They will be back - and we will be backing them - until Reeves and Starmer abandon their attacks on the people who produce the food on our tables.

Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.

Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.

Thanks to Josie, Basma, Clare and all who organised and supported the Preston Family Fun quiz helping to raise funds for the second Preston Summerfest (August 22nd- 24th). All profits from the festival itself go to The Pilgrims Hospice, Demelza House and Preston School.

Today on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, which we now recognise as Holocaust Memorial Day, we remember all those murdered during the Holocaust.

May you have a happy and prosperous New Year! I wish you all the best in the coming year. 🎆 Happy New Year to you all 🎆

Suzy, Team Gale and myself would like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Please support East Kent’s Young Farmers at Manston Airport from 1pm this afternoon. Santa’s Grotto, donkeys and at 4.15pm the illuminated tractor parade. Entrance and parking just past the old passenger terminal on the right.

Please support East Kent’s Young Farmers at Manston Airport from 1pm this afternoon. Santa’s Grotto, donkeys and at 4.15pm the illuminated tractor parade. Entrance and parking just past the old passenger terminal on the right.

It is twenty four years since Police Constable Jon Odell was killed while on active service as a Police Officer in Margate. In the words, today, of the police chaplain Dennis Hartley:

Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?

Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?

Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?

Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?

Congratulations to Team Dover on an excellent Christmas event at Sandwich Guildhall this evening. The Grinch, Father and Mrs Christmas, the Snowdown Colliery Band and two of Santa’s real live reindeer. What’s not to like about that line-up?

And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.

And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.

And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.

And Mr Speaker said “Let there be lights” - and there were lights! Parliament’s beautiful tree, donated by Forestry Britain, was illuminated this evening to the sound of carols sung by the girls choir of St Margaret’s Westminster.

A very civilised debate on assisted suicide in the Commons today. I opposed the motion, but the Bill has got its Second Reading and will now go into Committee. There is a very long way to go before the Bill becomes law.

On armistice day, with a delegation of Members of Parliament from Ukraine, we remember the losses in nearly a thousand days of war against Putin’s illegal invasion.

We will remember them.

At the Royal British Legion club in Minster with the Chairman of the Parish Council, John Quittenden and the Mayor of the town of Armbouts-Cappel in Northern France which is twinned with Minster in Thanet. M. le Maire and his delegation were visiting to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. Bienvenue.

At the Royal British Legion club in Minster with the Chairman of the Parish Council, John Quittenden and the Mayor of the town of Armbouts-Cappel in Northern France which is twinned with Minster in Thanet. M. le Maire and his delegation were visiting to commemorate Remembrance Sunday. Bienvenue.

A large and enthusiastic gathering headed up by Cllr. Trevor Bartlett with host Dave at the Crown in Finglesham. My colleagues Cllrs Martin Porter and Daniel Friend and Harry Sampson completed the team from Little Stour and Ashstone and Sandwich.

Congratulations to Baroness Laing of Elderslie (as Dame Eleanor Laing was the Chairman of Ways and Means in the House of Commons) who took her seat in the House of Lords on Monday. Watch the ermine fly once she gets used to the Upper House!

Best wishes to Ben Ainslie and team Ineos/Britannia in the Americas Cup series of races against New Zealand that start today. Time to bring the ‘Auld Mug’ home. We all know that it’s going to be tough - but so are you. With fair winds you can do this. Go Rita!

Best wishes to Ben Ainslie and team Ineos/Britannia in the Americas Cup series of races against New Zealand that start today. Time to bring the ‘Auld Mug’ home. We all know that it’s going to be tough - but so are you. With fair winds you can do this. Go Rita!

Huge congratulations to Ben Ainslie and team INEOS/Britannia on steering Rita to a truly thrilling win in the Louis Vuitton Cup and securing the right to challenge New Zealand for the ‘Auld Mug’. ‘England Expects’. Bring the America’s Cup home Ben!