Northiam

Last Monday we had another interesting evening in the company of Shirley Saeed, who demonstrated the art of making a spicy, healthy curry. As an added bonus, she’s keen on keeping costs down as well! Important points to remember – buy spices in small amounts and split with a friend to make sure they are fresh, don’t over-heat spices and make sure you caramelise your onions! There was a lot more, but it’s often the little tips which make all the difference!

For personalised cooking lessons, contact Shirley 07952 173748 – although I think she may encourage you to throw out any antique jars of spices lurking at the back of your cupboard!

Friday night is badminton night, and the clubs start at 5.30pm (Primary) 6.30pm (Secondary) and 8pm (Adults) in the Pretious Sports Hall. Dance Club meets in the Village Hall at 7.30pm.

The Over 60s have their first meeting back after the Christmas break in the Village Hall at 2pm on Tuesday.

Our PCSO, Becky Unicombe, will be attending Coffee Stop this week about 11am to give crime prevention advice and to discuss any issues or concerns with residents. Or you might just like to pop along for a cup of coffee and a chat.

The Women’s Institute meet in the Jenkins Room at 2pm, when the speaker will be Mr Paul Lendon, giving a talk entitled “A ticket to ride”. The competition is for a travel related item, which will give plenty of scope. There is also the flower of the month, and new-to-us books for the book sale.

The new target for the craft afternoons is making blankets for the vulnerable in the local community. The formula is 15cm/6inch squares in double knitting acrylic wool, using 5mm/number 6 knitting needles, 30 stitches and 50 rows to a square. The squares will be sewn together to make colourful blankets. New members are encouraged to come along to the monthly meetings in the Jenkins Room. Anyone wanting further information is welcome to phone Margaret Hinds 01797 253341.

Next Friday, 7th, Tom Hart-Dyke, horticulturalist, plant hunter and TV garden presenter, will be speaking at the Horticultural Society’s meeting at 2.30pm in the Village Hall. His talk will be about his World Garden he created at his home in Lullingstone Castle, near Dartford. It is expected that this talk will be well attended, so anyone intending to renew their membership on that day should plan to get there in plenty of time. There will be a charge for this talk of £2 for members and £5 for visitors.

The Conservation Society are having another of their fabulous Opera events on February 16th in the Music Room at Frewen College. Tickets at £21.50 include a glass of champagne, chocolates and a rose for every lady – aaah! Thomasin Trezise and Paul Hopwood / Jim Heath will perform love arias and duets from various operas. Strictly limited to 60 places.

Get your team ready for the next Big Quiz! Northiam Bowls Club are holding a quiz night on Saturday 1st March in the Village Hall. Tickets are £7.50 per person to include fish and chip supper, tables of 8. As there are a limited numbered spaces, you are advised to book early! Please contact John Taylor 01797 253549.

Services (2nd): 8am Holy Communion, 10.30am Morning Praise www.northiamvillage.co.uk