Thieves attempt break-in at Eynsford wildlife sanctuary

Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford had to survive a night of drama recently when a group of thieves, on what is believed to have been quad bikes, tried to break into the sanctuary by cutting through the perimeter fence around midnight.

Staff were alerted when the thieves’ actions were spotted on the security cameras and they ride off empty-handed.

In more welcome news, the festive period may be over but you can still visit the reindeer who in 2019 became some of the latest additions at the centre in Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford (DA4 0JB).

They are just one of the many interesting experiences you can enjoy at what is now one of the UK’s largest Birds of Prey centres which is now also a wildlife sanctuary which houses a variety of animals including, Meerkats, African Servals, Farm Animals, Reptiles, Huskies and more.

FARNINGHAM VILLAGE HALL INDOOR BOOT SALE is on 18 January. Start your new year by supporting the Farningham village hall fund raiser. All seller’s tables are taken and it’s an ideal time of year to cruise around in the warm and comfortable hall looking for those special items at bargain prices. The Boot Sale is open from 10am-1pm at the village hall to raise funds to contribute towards the hall maintenance costs. Buyers are admitted free and refreshments will be on offer. So please add this date to your calendar as a ‘must do’ after all those Christmas celebrations. More details available from 01322 860983 or email: carolsalmon46@icloud.com

FARNINGHAM VILLAGE HALL 81^st ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: The Hall is run by a committee of volunteers elected at the AGM each year. The AGM on 17 February, 7.30pm start, is open to the public and is being held in the Jessica Albury room in the hall. Everyone is welcome. We are hoping that at the meeting one or two members of the community will volunteer to help us organise some fun events to raise funds towards the maintenance costs of the hall. Volunteering helps develop skills and make new friends and also helps the community to keep its village hall in good use for the whole community. Contact vivienneparker@aol.com for more information or website www.farninghamvillagehall.co.uk

ROAD CLOSURE: Beesfield Lane in Farningham will be temporarily close between Alban Crescent and Donkey Lane on 2 February for one day while work is carried out by Kent County Council. 

COFFEE & CRAFT IN ST MARTIN’S, EYNSFORD is now every last Wednesday of the month, 10am – 12.30pm. The next one will be on 29 January, then 26 February. Come and join the group for coffee, cake, craft & chat. Bring your knitting, sewing, crafting or just yourself. There are jigsaw puzzles for you to try, or just come and socialise in a friendly atmosphere. Pop in when you can or stay the morning, and it’s all FREE. Information from Joscelyne Hynard at: jos.hynard@talktalk.net

FARNINGHAM FRIDAY CAFÉ is held every Friday morning in the Shand Hall just behind Farningham Church, 10am – noon. Everyone is invited to come and share a coffee or tea with old friends or new. Contact: farninghamcfc@outlook.com

TEA AND CHAT: This friendly group meets every Thursday at Farningham Village Hall and offers a supportive and enjoyable break to anyone who is lonely or perhaps just needs a little time away from their house, or would like to meet some new friends, chat and share some cake and tea. Lifts may be arranged if you telephone 01322866325 or contact: stella.baggaley05@btinternet.com

COMMUNITY AWARD: Eynsford Parish Council is participating in the Kent Association for Local Councils Community Award scheme again. The award is to acknowledge and give recognition to those that have made a significant contribution to their local community.

Residents are invited to nominate a person or group who has made a difference to Eynsford’s community. Parish councillors will then choose who will receive the award from those nominated. Past winners have been Audrey Gee, Ken Baker, Pauline Penney, Margaret Newbold and Sally Coston.

Nominees must live or work within Eynsford parish. Examples of possible contribution could be: Long and sustained service to the community or part of it; achievements or actions of an inspiring nature to the local community; activities which have brought benefit or credit to the parish.

The award is a certificate signed by the KALC Chairman and the High Sheriff of Kent and will be presented at Eynsford’s Annual Parish Meeting in 2020.

People can use these headings below to make a nomination which should be sent by email to: info@eynsfordparishcouncil.org.uk by 8 January 2020.

The Eynsford & Farningham Village news is compiled by Viv Parker. If you have any news or events you would like considered for the village column you can email them to: vivienneparker913@gmail.com