News Letter No 114 - from your intrepid correspondent - Ray Clark

So what have we been doing recently?

The summer season began with a country walk from and back to (for those who didn't lose themselves) the Ringlestone Arms.  This was closely followed by our annual 'car treasure hunt' - an opportunity to explore some of the lanes which although virtually on our doorsteps, are surprisingly quiet, almost remote.

Later in June a team representing the Branch went to The Castle at Oare for the annual inter-branch Bat & Trap competition; a good evening but 'Lynsted' did not 'trouble the scorers' for long!  The next evening saw what was our most successful event of the 'season' - the Bat & Trap and Croquet evening at Medlar House, Alison and Jim Hopkins' home.  About 100 members, friends and supporters enjoyed the games, the good company and the delightful surroundings and still found time to have a good supper and a glass or two. Thanks to the generosity of those who attended and, of course, the hard work of our hosts and their team of helpers, we were able to send £700 to the Kent Air Ambulance for their funds.

 In July we were lucky to have good weather for our Summer Lunch at White Chimneys - this after some weather related frights early in the day.  About 45 members and friends were present (we were particularly pleased to welcome a number of new members on the day) and, again, thanks to the support of those who came, a very 'nice' sum was raised  for charity and subsequently we made a donation of £300 to the Friends of Sittingbourne Memorial Hospital.

A small group of members - 'intrepid travellers' perhaps - although why travellers today should be labelled intrepid isn't quite clear - went by Chalkwell Coach and P & O ferry to France, Belgium and Holland for the day!  The August weather was kind - a smooth Channel crossing - but perhaps too much was attempted in the time available - it would have been nice to have had more time in Sluis.