Thank You for visiting Rostrum Wateringbury Village Free Magazine
Some find it easier to read the magazine in the Past Issues section
Welcome to the March 2026 edition of Rostrum
When you use any of our advertisers, please let them know you saw their advert in Rostrum
VILLAGE DIARY
March
1 Footpaths Walk – 2pm - outside Hall
1 Time to Remember – 2.30pm – Wateringbury Church
3 Parish Council Meeting - 7.30pm – Hall Upper Room
6 Footpaths Walk – 10am - outside Hall
6 Peter Pan pantomime – 7 for 7.30pm –Hall
7 Peter Pan - matinee – 1.30 for 2 pm – Hall
7 Peter Pan – evening - 7 for 7.30 pm – Hall
11 WI - meeting – 7.30-9.30pm – Hal
13 CAMEO Coffee Morning – 10.30-11.30am – Hall Back room
15 Wateringbury Village Market – 10am-1pm – Hall
18 Flower Club – M. Matharu – ‘Floral Fiesta’ - 7pm - Nettlestead Hall
18 Cuppa with a Copper PC Dan – 10-11am – Wateringbury Hotel
18 History Society – ‘The Roaring 20s’ talk – 7.40 for 8pm – Hall
April
5 Footpaths Walk – 2.30pm - outside Hall
7 Parish Council Meeting - 7.30pm – Hall Upper Room
8 WI - meeting - 7.30-9.30pm – Hall
13 CAMEO Coffee Morning – 10.30am – Hall Back Room
15 History Society – ‘What the Victorians did for us’– 7.40 for 8pm – Hall
15 Flower Club – ‘Design in a shoe’ workshop - 7pm - Nettlestead Hall
19 Wateringbury Village Market – 10am -1pm – Hall
VILLAGE FETE SUNDAY 7TH JUNE
AT THE PLAYING FIELDS
CAMEO COFFEE MORNING - BACK ROOM OF VILLAGE HALL 13th March – 10.30am-11.30am
Come And Meet Each Other and enjoy Free Coffee and Cake The event is sponsored by the Parish Council to provide an opportunity to get to know others from the village.
Second Friday of each month.
Make a note in your diary.
Kent Acting Studio continues to meet each Saturday morning in the Village Hall. Their website is 
www.kentactingstudio.co.uk
VILLAGE PEOPLE Please let us have your news and tributes by 17th March for our April edition of Rostrum. Entries are free.
Email: rostrum2@hotmail.com
Belated Birthday Greetings to Sarah Hudson who recently celebrated a milestone birthday.
New Grandson Arrival Congratulations to Alison and
Brian Tibbals on the arrival of Luca Maximilion in Pembury Hospital and to proud parents David and Natacha Tibbals who live in East Peckham.
Golden Wedding Congratulation to Barry and Hilary Fisher who were married on 20th March 1976 at St Martin’s Church Acrise, near Hawkinge. They moved to Wateringbury not long after. Hilary has been church organist for over 40 years.
New Throw Lines Bring Lifesaving Support to the Medway
The Environment Agency, in partnership with Kent Fire and Rescue, have installed 10 brightly coloured throw lines at key locations along the river. These rescue aids are designed for quick and easy use in emergencies where someone is in difficulty in the water.
This move is part of a broader campaign to reduce drowning risks and promote safer enjoyment of the river. The throw lines replace older life rings, which were often vandalised or removed - posing serious safety hazards. Unlike the old equipment, the new throw lines are tamper-resistant and securely fixed, ensuring they’re available when needed to save lives.
How to Use a Throw Line
A throw line is a buoyant rope stored in a bag, designed to help someone in trouble without putting the rescuer at risk.
Call 999 immediately and give your location, as shown on the board.
1. Stand in a stable position on the riverbank or dock. Hold the rope’s end firmly and throw the bag underarm or sidearm, aiming past the person so the rope reaches them.
2. Once they grab the rope, instruct them to hold tight and lie on their back to stay afloat.
3. Carefully pull them to safety, avoiding being pulled in yourself.
Never jump in after someone in distress.
Always call emergency services and ask for the fire service in any water rescue situation. These throw lines could make the difference between life and death - knowing how to use them is vital.
Faith Goddings, Environment Agency
LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY
‘The Roaring 20s’ is the topic of Delia Taylor’s talk to the Society on Wednesday 18th March. A trip into an era of so many happy times at a time of hardship but much camaraderie.
On 15th April Ian Bevan’s topic will be ‘What the Victorians did for us’. Both talks are in the Village Hall and start at 8pm with free tea or coffee on offer from 7.40pm. Visitors are very welcome to come along at a cost of £7 an evening.
The Members’ Annual Wine and Cheese evening will be on Wednesday 20th May at a member’s home. This is a ticket only event and tickets, which cost £7, will be on sale at our March and April meetings. Christine Byron
WATERINGBURY FLOWER CLUB
After concluding our AGM business at our February meeting, we had a very interesting evening making designs depicting the Valentine’s theme with the colour Red. The committee led the workshop and inspired us with modern and traditional designs and a few contemporary. What a talented bunch they are.
See our photos on Facebook, and think about having a try yourself. Come along and see if the club is for you, you will be made very welcome. Friendship through Flowers.
On the 18th March we have one of Kent’s 2025 newly qualified demonstrators, Marion Matharu from Ashford, with her exciting
‘Floral Fiesta’, followed by our popular club competition with a similar title.
On the 15th April we have our popular in-house workshop entitled
‘A design in a shoe’. Meetings start at 7 for 7.45pm at Nettlestead Village Hall. Refreshments provided.
Jean Schofield President WFC
1st Wateringbury Brownies
We have spaces available for an immediate start in the Brownie Unit - we meet on Thursday evenings in Wateringbury, and would welcome any girls from the age of 7 to 10.
The Brownies (and Leaders) enjoy a wide variety of activities throughout the year, from canoeing, climbing, walks, picnics, outdoor games to cooking, crafts, themed evenings and working towards badges. We take part in community activities such as the village fete, attend the Wateringbury Players panto and join the Remembrance parade. The Brownies have a chance to try new things whilst making new friends and most importantly having fun!
We are happy to offer taster sessions.
To contact the leaders, please email 1stwateringburybrownies@gmail.com Carolyn (Tawny Owl) and Jane (Snowy Owl)
MATT BOUGHTON – TMBC Borough Councillor’s Report
February at both Kent County Council and Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council (TMBC) is always dominated by setting the Budget for the coming financial year. We both have numerous meetings determining where to prioritise funding, balancing what a Council has to do, against what a Council would like to do.
This year has been no different. But the financial backdrop for both Councils has got harder. For TMBC especially, that has been trickier than usual.
There are essentially three ways in which Councils are funded:
1) Council Tax.
2) Fees and charges – including parking income, garden waste subscriptions or licensing fees.
3) The Local Government Finance Settlement.
The Local Government Finance Settlement is the amount of money the Government gives to councils to help balance its Budget. The Government assumes councils raise council tax by the maximum permitted and then determines a ‘Core Spending Power’. Government support is then the gap between council tax income and the Core Spending Power.
The particular problem for TMBC is that the Government has reduced its Core Spending Power from £27.3m to £22.3m for the coming year. It works out at a 15% reduction. This scale of reduction is the second largest in the whole country. Only Harborough in Leicestershire comes off worse.
Why has this happened? Put simply, the Government has conducted a ‘Fair Funding Review’ which gives greater Government support to Councils in financial difficulty. TMBC is one of only a handful of local Councils in the country without any debt at all. It means every penny you pay TMBC in council tax is spent on services we all benefit from. Yet the Fair Funding Review means we are being penalised for years of strong financial management.
This isn’t even the tip of the iceberg. There are also reductions to grants Government gives councils such as Business Rates indexation and Homelessness Support Grant. The services funded from these grants can only continue with money reallocated from elsewhere.
It has a number of immediate consequences. TMBC’s share of council tax is proposed to increase by the maximum permitted, to plug as much of this gap as possible. The other way councils receive income, fees and charges, will need to be considered. Whilst parking charges will remain frozen, other fees will increase – such as street naming and numbering charges.
The world of Council finances is extremely complicated and not easy to understand. Unfortunately, much of it is dependent on the Government and, as we are finding, if a Government changes national policy, it can have a significant impact on the amount of money available for local services.
Matt Boughton Leader, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council
Councillor for East Peckham, West Peckham, Mereworth and Wateringbury
Wateringbury Footpaths Group
In February we had damp, grey and muddy walks, but we luckily dodged the worst of the rain. Our Sunday walk was brightened by four new walkers spanning three generations from one family, two of whom have recently moved to Wateringbury. Our route showed them that it’s possible to walk to Kings Hill on public footpaths without going along busy roads. Rostrum is a great way for people recently moved to the village to meet local people and explore new places.
It had been a very wet couple of months, but there were signs of spring, such as daffodils and narcissi in verges. We just need to be dressed for the conditions: footwear with a good grip; a waterproof coat; and some of us like to use a walking stick or pole if we are concerned about slipping. Just getting out in the fresh air and having some exercise always lifts my spirits. You are very welcome to join our sociable group walks. We will be leaving the village hall at:
2.00pm on Sunday 1st March
10.00am on Friday 6th March
2.30pm on Sunday 5th April (note later start time as by then we’ll have lighter evenings)
Please contact me if you want more information and to be kept updated. We have a WhatsApp group for me to send reminders and updates.
Lisa Dean 07759 539032
As we are well into 2026 the Wateringbury Social Club (WSC) offers very competitive bar prices and a range of activities and events:
• Sky Sport Entertainment (on our large TV)
• Snooker
• Pool
• Darts.
Throughout the months we hold regular quizzes (including speed quiz) and bingo, all within a welcoming atmosphere. We always welcome new members with reductions for OAPs and students. The WSC is open:
Wednesday to Thursday 7pm-11pm
Friday 5pm-11pm,
Saturday 4:30pm-11pm Sunday 12pm-7pm.
If you haven’t been to the club yet, do come along and see what you are missing. Apologies, but our comedy night that was advertised in last month’s Rostrum, has now SOLD OUT.
STILL DESPERATELY NEEDED FOR WAR TORN UKRAINE
Animal food and medication, even partly used, animal coats, beds, toys, etc. Warm clothes - knitted gloves, hats, baby clothes. Clothes and boots for soldiers. Utensils, human medication, toiletries and walking aids. Clean, complete toys and puzzles. Please put your name and telephone number in bags. Sue 07875 262659
GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE
Frogs and toads are now on the move, coming out of hibernation and returning to the pond where they spawned. Some ponds have already got spawn in them and the tadpoles will hatch in around 14 days depending on the temperature. All amphibians eat insects, slugs and snails so are a gardener’s friend. Once the weather warms up, they will leave the water and live on land in damp dark places, so even if you haven’t got a pond, you can encourage them by providing piles of stones, logs or rocks in corners of your garden.
Birds are also preparing to reproduce, so it’s best to avoid pruning hedges, trees and shrubs now as this might disturb nest building. Robins are usually the first songbirds to begin and create a small, neat, mossy cup often surrounded by dry leaves. Blackbirds will start a little later and their nests incorporate mud and are often sited in evergreen shrubs such as ivy. You can help them by putting out bundles of small twigs and moss for them to collect and in the past, it has been suggested that you could also offer cat and dog hair. However, this is no longer recommended as it may have been treated with insect repellant and this can harm the birds.
This is a good time of year to plant bare rooted trees (much cheaper than in pots!) and although native species are best for our wildlife, any tree is a welcome addition to a garden.
Pauline Knutton
WI Wateringbury WI meets on Second Wednesday of every month at the Village Hall 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
We had a lovely meeting in February. Our speaker for the evening was Carol M Creasey. She entertained us with some of the trials and the joy of bringing up a severely autistic son in the 1970s. By sheer determination and love he was able to live a relatively normal life. Carol was inspired to write about her family’s life journey which also led her to write some novels set around the Kent coast. We were lucky enough to be able to purchase some of Carol's books which she also signed for us.
During the Winter months we have been holding a series of craft workshops. In January we did painting on ceramics with Lois Constable who you can regularly find at the Village Market. Lois returned our bowls to us all glazed and fired. You can see our finished bowls on Wateringbury and Nettlestead residents Facebook page.
March will bring us Jo Golding, a holistic therapist. Jo is coming to explain to us the benefits of Reflexology and also Auricular Acupuncture on the body. Mindfulness and holistic treatments are proven to benefit us all. We don't always know where to go for help but Jo is on hand to guide us through and will lead us to a future of wellbeing. Come along and see where it will take you.
Visitors welcome £3, refreshments £1, raffle £1.
Sharon Goshawk President Email Wateringbury@wkfwi.org.uk
WATERINGBURY SCOUT GROUP
As the weather starts to improve over the next few months you will see our young people out and about in the village, including our Scouts trying to “match the picture”, Cubs practicing road safety on a hike and our Beavers playing Easter games at the recreation ground.
Our Scouts are working towards their fundraising badge and had a stall at the Christmas fayres at Lower Grange Farm and the village market. They raised almost £300 towards replacing group equipment through hard work and some cheeky smiles. Look out for possible cake sales, quiz nights and more this year. They are also trying out karaoke and fencing this term and learning about disabilities and solving difficulties that may make everyday activities more complex. We are joining in The Great Tommy Sleepout in March to raise funds for our veterans.
Beavers have also got lots of fun to have with unusual UK traditions, completing their safety badge, a sleepover (although sleep always seems optional!), growing their own snacks and finishing with lots of fun and Easter games.
The Cubs will be joining other local Cubs on a sleepover at a soft play centre, cue a lot of excited children having a blast!
If any of these sound exciting to you as an adult, why don't you come down and see what we do. Please contact me at:
Glv@wateringbury-scouts.org.uk
WateringburY Guides
One of the new guide interest badges is Thrift so we spent an evening repurposing existing clothing to make something new that we could wear. Our finished efforts were paraded on the catwalk and we had great fun. We celebrated Burns Night with a Scottish quiz and offered haggis, neaps and tatties. To be fair, most girls and leaders tried the haggis and generally agreed that it wasn’t as bad as expected.
On the subject of expected, we had a first aid evening with girls being presented with a series of first aid scenarios that they had to deal with. It would be true to say, it was not our finest hour and we were very grateful that all leaders are first aid trained and we wouldn’t have to rely on the girls! It was agreed that we need to repeat this evening again and soon!
We’ve recently reorganised our patrols and we spent an evening with activities getting the new groups to gel, and to incorporate the new members who have recently joined us. On Friday 13th we had a backwards evening wearing our pyjamas and starting the evening as we would normally end it. We spent time making pancakes with various recipes for our breakfast. We’ll be joining the rest of the District at an Activity Day at Lower Grange Farm shortly where the girls will get a selection of activities including quad biking, power risers and fencing.
There are still spaces in Brownies (aged 7-10), and a few in Guides (aged 10-15) in Wateringbury so please register your daughter on https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/information-for-parents/register-a-child/
Sheena Stewart and team.
TIME TO REMEMBER
Sunday 1st March at 2.30pm
in church of St John the Baptist, Wateringbury
We all experience the loss of beloved family and friends. No matter how recent or long ago the event, anniversaries and special dates cause us to pause and reflect.
On 1st March there will be an opportunity to come to church and have time to reflect and celebrate the special times we shared with those we loved who have passed from this world.
We all grieve in our own way. We all heal in our own time.
For those who wish to stay after the service tea and cake will be served
JUMBLE SALE - TESTON VILLAGE HALL
SATURDAY 7th MARCH - 2-4pm
Clothes, Books, Toys and Games, Household Goods
Miscellaneous Treasures
Refreshments available - Entrance 50p
(in aid of Teston Church)
CHURCHYARD PLANT SALE
SATURDAY 23rd MAY 10am-1pm
When dividing plants while working in your garden in the coming weeks please pot some up and bring them along to the plant sale. All proceeds for the maintenance of our ancient village church
Wateringbury Summer Village Fete
7 June 2026
Get ready for one of the highlights of our community calendar. The Summer Village Fete returns on
Sunday 7 June 2026, running from 12.30 noon until 5pm, and everyone is warmly invited to join the fun.
This year’s fete promises a wonderful afternoon for all ages. Expect a cheerful mix of traditional stalls, homemade cakes, local crafts, games for children, a raffle, plant sales, and plenty of opportunities to catch up with neighbours over something delicious to eat and drink. There will also be live entertainment throughout the day, adding to the relaxed summer atmosphere.
Whether you come for the bargains, the music, the food, or simply the company, the fete is a lovely way to celebrate the season and support our parish community. Bring family, friends, and a bit of sunshine spirit.
Enquiries for stalls are open.
Please contact Julie Jones on 07753811585
We look forward to seeing you there!
WATERINGBURY CHURCH SERVICES IN MARCH
Benefice website www.mwwpchurches.org
A friendly welcome awaits you at all Sunday Services which start at 10am and last for about an hour. Each service has an easy to follow service sheet. Refreshments are served after these services please stay for a chat if you can.
Sunday 1st 10am – Matins led by Barry Fisher
A quiet service using the traditional words from the Prayer Book
Sunday 1st – 2.30pm – Time to Remember
A gentle service to celebrate the lives of those we have lost.
Sunday 8th - Holy Communion with Rev Gary Townsend
Saturday 14th - 3-5pm - Messy Church (for children and their carers) Bible Story, Action Songs, Prayer time, lots of crafts and ending with afternoon tea.
Mothering Sunday 15th - 10am - All Age Worship
A less formal service. As is our custom ladies in the congregation will be given posies of flowers
Sunday 22nd - 10am – Benefice Communion with Rev Gary
Palm Sunday 29th – 10am Benefice Communion Service in West Peckham church with Rev Gary Townsend
Palm Crosses are given to all as Jesus entry into Jerusalem is remembered.
Maundy Thursday 2nd April 7.30pm in Mereworth church
Service of Holy Communion with vigil and foot washing
Good Friday 3rd April – 2-3pm – An Hour at the Cross led by Barry Fisher
A contemplative time to reflect on the Crucifixion of Jesus
Sunday 5th April - 10am – Easter Service
We celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on the first Easter day
Sunday 22nd March - 5pm-6pm at Mereworth Church:
REFRESH - Praise, Prayer and Discussion.
This is an informal service in which we explore some fundamental questions about the Christian Faith.
This month's topic:
Christian Behaviour Part 1. A presentation of The Three Parts of Morality from C.S. Lewis' book, Mere Christianity
BENEFICE LENT COURSE IN WATERINGBURY CHURCH Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm 25th February, March 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th
For our Lent Course this year we will be showing a selection of films from a series called ‘The Chosen’. As part of each session there will be an opportunity to discuss some questions based on the film and a time of prayer. It's free and everyone is welcome to join for all or as many evenings as you can manage.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – A SERVICE FOR EVERYONE
FRIDAY 6th MARCH
ST JAMES THE GREAT, EAST MALLING
Service at 10.30am - Refreshments afterwards
COFFEE BREAK Wednesdays 11th & 25th March 8th & 22nd April
If you enjoy coffee and homemade cake and a friendly chat do come along to this informal group which meets in the church social area on a fortnightly basis. Suggested donation £1 Using the money from the donations the group have recently bought three 40 litre waterproof back-packs which have been donated to support the work of Maidstone Homeless Care.
Gillian Sessions 01622 813076
CHURCH AND CHURCHYARD SPRING CLEAN
SATURDAY 28th MARCH – 9.30AM-NOON
If you can spare an hour or so please do come along and help make the churchyard and church sparkle for Easter. Bring along the ‘tools’ for any task you would like to assist with.
EASTER FUN WITH FAITH
Calling all primary school aged children in Wateringbury … please join us for a morning filled with fun, songs and craft activities to help celebrate and hear the Easter story
Saturday 4th April 2026
9.30am until 12.30pm
St John the Baptist church, Wateringbury
Booking is essential and the form can be found on www.mwwpchurches.org.
Deadline Wednesday 1st April 2026
FEBRUARY PARISH COUNCIL NOTES
Vacancy on Parish Council - Rob Andrews applied to fill the vacancy on the Council. He told the meeting he wished to make a difference to life in the village. He had organised the successful Halloween Trail held in 2025 and was happy to arrange other such events. He was unanimously co-opted and joined Councillors for the meeting.
Borough Councillor Report - Matt Boughton reported that most of Councillors’ time at the moment was focused on setting the budget for the coming financial year. Some tough decisions will have to be made particularly in the light of the reduction in the funding from central government. T&M’s grant is the second worst in England being a 15% reduction in an already inadequate funding package. T&M was one of very few borough councils which was not debt ridden, which he felt was due to wise decisions made over the years.
KCC Councillor Report - Sarah Hudson said that the meeting on 12th February would focus on setting the KCC budget for the coming year and it was likely to be a long meeting. Central Government’s plans to reorganise County Councils is the subject of a 7-week Public Consultation to allow the general public to comment on the proposals. KCC’s preferred option was to amalgamate with Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks.
Allotments – more informal inspections would be carried out in addition to the annual inspection to ensure plots were being maintained to an appropriate standard. There were three vacant plots; anyone interested in growing their own vegetables should contact the Clerk for details.
Cemetery - it was unanimously agreed to fund the new Clerk’s attendance on a training course on the administration of burial grounds. New regulations were agreed about the maintenance of individual plots. Two new graves had sunk about 2 feet and needed to be refilled. The relevant families will be contacted to arrange for the work to be completed.
Crime Report – There were 20 calls to the police most of which did not affect the wider community. One criminal damage caused by a catapult. One report of a female being offered a lift by an unknown male motorist. Reports of youths doing balloons (nitrous oxide) in the cemetery car park. Police are patrolling the area.
Fly Tipping - there had been another serious incident of fly tipping which had totally blocked Park Road.
Planning - there were no new planning applications to consider. Councillors spent some time discussing planning considerations which it will use to vigorously oppose the Fields Lane Planning Application when they give a permitted 3-minute presentation to the TMBC Planning Committee on 18th February. They have also sent in written objections.
Topics raised at Public Open Sessions
Vehicles parking at the junction of Fields Lane and Tonbridge Road were a continuing problem; when were the double yellow lines going to be painted? There is a waiting list for the work to be done. It was hoped the work would be carried out this year. It was stressed the lines would only be painted near the junction where badly parked vehicles were an ongoing safety issue. Police have attended at times.
Would there be a Village Fete in 2026? Sarah Hudson said plans were well under way and there was a new co-ordinator. The fete would be at the Playing Fields on Sunday 7th June.
Next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 3rd March at 7.30pm in the Village Hall upper room. Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting and will be given two opportunities to raise matters of local concern.
Approved minutes of council meetings are published on
the Parish Council website www.wateringburypc.org.uk
VILLAGE MARKET
Despite your Village Market attracting new and diverse sellers every month we had a disappointing footfall at our February market. Please support this monthly market regularly offering over 25 unique and bespoke stalls. In addition, we now have a regular Tarot reader! Entry is free and refreshments available to enjoy in our separate Chat Room. Local events and groups are always publicised. Please come along and support your Village Market. Future dates – 15th March ,19th April, 17th May , 21st June
TONBRIDGE & Malling Ramblers walks IN March
For full details of the walks starting from Trosley, Trosley Country Park, Offham, Knockholt, Leigh and Birling, please see, www.tonbridgeandmallingramblers.org.uk
Welcome to the February edition of Rostrum
VILLAGE DIARY
February
1 Footpaths Walk – 2pm - outside Hall
3 Parish Council Meeting - 7.30pm – Hall Upper Room
7 Brownies Bingo night – 6.30 for 7 pm – Hall
10 Footpaths Walk – 10am - outside Hall
11 WI - meeting Carol Creasey, writer - 7.30 -9.30pm – Hall
13 CAMEO Coffee Morning – 10.30-11.30am – Hall small room
15 Village Market – 10am – 1pm - Hall
18 Protest lobby - from 6.30pm – Gibson Building, Gibson Drive, Kings Hill
18 Flower Club - AGM; practical ‘Red is the colour’-7 pm - Nettlestead VH
18 Cuppa with a Copper PC Dan – 10-11am – Wateringbury Hotel
18 Kent’s links to Cricket - History Society talk – 7.40pm -Hall
March
1 Footpaths Walk – 2pm - outside Hall
1 Time to Remember – 2.30pm – Wateringbury Church
3 Parish Council Meeting - 7.30pm – Hall Upper Room
6 Peter Pan pantomime – 7 for 7.30pm – Village Hall
7 Peter Pan - matinee – 1.30 for 2 pm – Hall
7 Peter Pan – evening - 7 for 7.30 pm – Hall
11 WI - meeting - 7.30 -9.30pm – Hall
13 CAMEO Coffee Morning – 10.30-11.30am – Hall small room
14 Wateringbury Social club -.'Out of bounds' – 7pm for 8pm – WSC
18 Flower Club – M. Matharu - Floral Fiesta’ - 7pm - Nettlestead VH
18 Cuppa with a Copper PC Dan – 10-11am – Wateringbury Hotel
Rostrum thanks all its advertisers for their support, which enables us to provide Rostrum without any charge, and welcomes its new advertisers for 2026: The Swan on the Green, a community owned pub; Zoomies, a dog walking service; and Viners & Sons, funeral directors. Rostrum recommends you do appropriate due diligence on any advertiser you use and hopes you mention that you saw their advert here.
Wateringbury Village Market
Please note an earlier start of 10am still closing at 1pm
Our Christmas market in December was a great success. Increased footfall and good takings - maybe it was the mulled wine! Profit from which was donated to KHSC (Kings Hill String Club) and Dementia UK. We continue to have an eclectic mix of sellers - never the same every month, with regular new requests for slots. Please support your Village Market - coffee and cakes and a Chat Room - free entry and no pressure to buy (though temptation will be great!!) The market will continue to be held on the 3rd Sunday of every month in 2026: 15th February, 15th March, 19th April.
Sue Collins
VILLAGE PEOPLE Please let us have your news and tributes by 17th February for our March edition of Rostrum. Entries are free.
Email: rostrum2@hotmail.com
Congratulations
New arrival - Zebedee Peter Best Shaw arrived on 16th[CB1] November in Bath Royal United Hospital weighing 8lbs 3oz. Congratulations to grandparents Emily and Thomas and great grandparents Nell and Vivian Rubin and, of course, to parents Joshua and Ellie and big sister Ophelia
TIME TO REMEMBER
Sunday 1st March at 2.30pm
in church of St John the Baptist, Wateringbury
We all experience the loss of beloved family and friends. No matter how recent or long ago the event, anniversaries and special dates cause us to pause and reflect.
On 1st March there will be an opportunity to come to church and have time to reflect and celebrate the special times we shared with those we loved who have passed from this world.
We all grieve in our own way.
We all heal in our own time.
For those who wish to stay after the service
tea and cake will be served
COFFEE BREAK – 11th and 25th February 10.30am-12.30pm
After meeting every week in January to help overcome post-Christmas blues the group returns to meeting on alternate Wednesdays in the church social area. We are a friendly, informal group who enjoy coffee, tea, home-made cake and spending time in the company of others. Do come along, suggested donation £1. Over the past few months, the group has donated 5 sleeping bags, warm clothing and tinned food to Maidstone Homeless Care to help with its work for those in great need.
If you are shy about coming along on your own do give me a call and we can arrange for someone to meet you.
Gillian Sessions 01622 813076
Wateringbury Players
Happy New Year from The Wateringbury Players.
Panto season is a bit late this year but we cannot wait to perform our production of Peter Pan. It [CB1] will be performed at Wateringbury Village Hall on the evenings of Friday 6th March, Saturday 7th March 7.30pm (doors open at 7.00pm) and Saturday matinee 2pm[CB2] (doors open at 1.30pm). Tickets will be on sale from Thursday 29thJanuary at The Handy Store and Wateringbury Post Office . Cash only. All tickets are £14. Child concession tickets are available for the Saturday matinee performance only (16 and under) £7.00.
I look forward to seeing you all there. [CB3] Esther Clark
THE OAST THEATRE, TONBRIDGE
“HUMBLE BOY” by Charlotte Jones
7th March – 14th March 2026
“Humble Boy” by Charlotte Jones is a multi-award winning comedy with the intensity of family emotions, the search for the meaning of life and echoes of “Hamlet”.
Come along and see for yourself. It is definitely a play not to be missed!
Performances: 8 pm. (Sunday 3 pm)
Tickets: £14 Book online at www.oasttheatre.com
Credit card bookings 0333 666 33 66 (booking fee applies)
Ukraine appeal
Items still urgently needed: human meds, animal meds (part used or unused), bandages, walking aids, incontinence pads, sanitary products, etc.
Animal food, part used human foods non-perishable, animal items.
Thick winter clothes, new socks, shoes, toiletries, good boots for soldiers.
Please put name/number in with your donation
Any queries? Contact Sue 07875 262759.
TONBRIDGE & Malling Ramblers February walks
For full details of the walks see www.tonbridgeandmallingramblers.org.uk
Wateringbury Scout Group Trustee Board
Do you have the availability to invest some of your time?
Do you want to enhance your skills of team work, organisation, leadership and more?
We are looking for people from the age of 18+ to help us with the management of the scout group. This[CB4] is not working with the youth members (unless you choose to), this is helping us create a trustee board to oversee the governance and make sure we do things correctly and safely.
If you have ever wanted or been part of a school PTA, run a sports club, managed a business, like accounting or run a home you have the skills we need.
We meet 4-5 times a year either in person or online.
If you are interested or would like more information please contact:
Jacqueline at GLV@wateringbury-scouts.org.uk
As we start the year our Cub pack is thriving with just over 30 boys and girls aged eight to ten and a half years old, all keen to have fun and adventures!
Here’s what we’ll be getting up to this term: playing games in the dark; making and, of course, eating French toast; learning first aid skills and using origami to make paper aeroplanes, all before half term!
After the break we start back with some baking; joining other local Cub packs on a sleepover; creating robots using woodworking skills; hiking and learning road safety; celebrating St Patrick’s Day; tobogganing and, just before Easter, an Easter egg hunt. All culminating with games, activities and adventures galore in our annual, two-night Sp[CB5] ring pack holiday!
A jam-packed term of adventure and learning all whilst having loads of fun!
If you’d like to put your child on the waiting list, volunteer or make an enquiry please do so by contacting Wateringbury [CB6] Cub Scout Team
WI
We meet on 2nd Wednesday of the month at 7.30 to 9.30pm at the village hall.
We have lots of events already organised in our 2026 programme, at the village hall and also a few out and about.
To kick start the year, we had Tony Harris come along in full costume as King Henry VIII. He gave us an amazing evening full of laughter and stories of his six wives and why some of them just didn't make him very happy!!! We finished our meeting with a cup of tea and a piece of cake.
On Wednesday 11th February Carol Creasey will come along. she is
a published author from Maidstone who had to change her career path when one of her children was born with Autism. And, while caring for him she wrote and had published her first book. Proving anything is possible if you are determined enough.
Visitors welcome £3, refreshments £1, raffle £1.
For more information email Wateringbury@wkfwi.org.uk or find us on Facebook. Sharon Goshawk, President
Sarah Hudson - Borough Councillor’s Report
February brings the Area 2 Planning meeting on Wednesday 18th February which[CB7] includes the planning application for the 66 houses in the fields north of Drayhorse, just off the A26. Matt and I will be allowed to discuss this, along with a representative of the Parish Council and up to 5 registered speakers. If you wish to talk on the subject you need to have commented on the application through the planning portal. Then you will be invited one week before the meeting to register to speak, should you wish to. You will have 3 minutes to speak. The first five members of the public who register will get to speak, so it is important to act promptly, should you wish to do so. Other committee members and planning officers will also join in with the debate.
Also on 18th February is the Cuppa with a Copper. Come along to the Wateringbury Hotel between 10am and 11am that day and meet and chat with our Village PC Dan. He is also back on Wednesday 18th March. Same time, same place.
The Parish Council are holding a monthly coffee morning at the village hall. February’s date is Friday 13th - so pop along and meet some of your parish councillors and raise any issues you may have with them, over a cup of tea or coffee, and a cupcake.
Sarah Hudson TMBC Borough Councillor for
East and West Peckham, Mereworth and Wateringbury
Tom Tugendhat’s request
Our MP, Tom Tugendhat, has requested Rostrum readers to assist him in building the case with mobile phone companies for them to upgrade their coverage in our area. He believes that more pressure on them is needed to speed up their existing plans. His actions in this area would be helped if he had more individual reports of experiences.
He believes this is not just a rural problem as many people cannot get a sufficient signal in the middle of Tonbridge to pay for parking or access shopping apps. He notes that calls on train journeys are often disrupted by a lost signal.
He thanks those that have already shared their experiences with him, but would like to hear more individual experiences. He requests you fill out the form on his website at www.tomtugendhat.org/mobile-phone-survey
Wateringbury Football Club
Wateringbury Football Club are looking for an overall academy leader for our Girls’ [CB1] section. If you have, or know someone who has, the interest and the skills for this very important and extremely rewarding (voluntary) position, please contact Tony on 07890 053921. Wateringbury FC is a great and proud asset for the children of our village and the Girls’section[CB2] is so very important to the club. WFC juniors start from 6 years old and carry through to under 18s.
This particular position is coaching the young girls (6-8 year olds) and preparing them for their junior football journey.
Tony Garrett t. 020 7869 3310 (Direct) m. 07890 053921
We have spaces available for an immediate start in the Brownie Unit - we meet on Thursday evenings in Wateringbury, and would welcome any girls from the age of 7 to 10.
The Brownies (and Leaders) enjoy a wide variety of activities throughout the year, from canoeing, climbing, walks, picnics, outdoor games to cooking, crafts, themed evenings and working towards badges. We take part in community activities such as the village fete, attend the Wateringbury players panto and join the Remembrance parade. The Brownies have a chance to try new things whilst making new friends and most importantly having fun!
To contact the leaders, please email 1stwateringburybrownies@gmail.com. We are happy to offer taster sessions. Carolyn (Tawny Owl) and Jane (Snowy Owl)
Wateringbury Footpaths Group
In December and January changing conditions meant I had to adjust my walk plans.
In December we enjoyed a couple of walks to Pizien Well Road. For the Sunday walk we had to make a slight detour to avoid a tree that had fallen onto the footpath between the pond and Old Road. On the weekday repeat walk eight days later it was great to see that the tree had been cleared. Thanks to whoever organised that. We had time and energy to extend the weekday walk over the top of Gibbs Hill.
In January, after a spell without heavy rain, the path by the river to Teston Country Park was dry, unusually for midwinter. We took the opportunity to walk that route on the Sunday afternoon walk. Following heavy rain, I checked three days before the planned weekday repeat walk and the path was completely under water! So instead, we went up the footpath opposite Love Lane, skirted Kings Hill and returned down Canon[CB3] Lane before cutting back across in front of the woods to enjoy the views.
You are very welcome to join our sociable group walks; new people often join us. We [CB4] will be leaving the village hall at:
2.00pm on Sunday 1st February
10.00am on Tuesday 10th February
2.00pm on Sunday 1st March
Please contact me if you want more information and to be kept updated.
Wateringbury Social Club
Wateringbury Social Club are open for 2026 membership. With regular entertainment nights, snooker table, pool table, darts, all major live sports events shown and very competitive bar prices, at annual membership rates of only £25 per adult, £20 per student or £45 for a (same household living) couple, this offers great value to the village's favourite social venue.
Tickets are selling fast for the 'Out of bounds' comedy night being held at 'the club' on Saturday 14th M[CB5] arch. This is an adult only event and tickets can be purchased behind the bar at only £15 per person. Tony Garret
GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE
As days begin to lengthen, the first flowers emerge in our gardens. Initially hellebores, snowdrops and aconites, followed by crocuses. All these provide food for early pollinators as well as cheering us all up and can be grown in pots and placed near the house.
The annual RSPB ‘Big Bird Count’ took place in January, so some of you may have contributed to the important data that will inform us how our garden birds are faring. The advice, as always, is to continue to feed them but to regularly clean bird feeders and tables to prevent the spread of infection. It’s also worth considering ways that the trees and shrubs in our gardens can support all wildlife but particularly birds. Some will make their first nesting attempts in evergreen shrubs which provide cover at a time when most broadleaves are still in bud. Yew, Holly, Cotoneaster, Pyracantha and Ivy are all good choices for our gardens whilst also producing berries which provide food throughout the Winter.
I recently watched David Attenborough’s ‘Wild London’, which tells an unusually positive story and emphasizes the positive impact gardens are having. It was particularly encouraging to hear that hedgehog numbers have increased largely due to gardeners ensuring that they can move between gardens by creating ‘hedgehog highways’. Hedgehogs eat slugs and snails so are friends to all gardeners! Pauline Knutton
WateringburY Guides
We are very grateful for all the support we got at our cake and sweet stall at Wateringbury C[CB6] hurch Christmas Bazaar[CB7] , raising valuable funds for our activities and the church.
The term ended with an enjoyable visit to Planet Ice Gillingham, The more confident skaters sped around the rink whereas those less confident put their faith in their polar bear skate aid.
We have restarted after Christmas and together we’ve planned the programme until Easter. We’re going to try and be thrifty with unwanted items of clothing to see if they can be ‘adapted’ into something new, we will celebrate Burns Night daring to try haggis, and we’ll have a backwards evening for Friday 13th February starting the evening with goodbye, and working backwards to breakfast where we’ll have, of course, pancakes!
We have a District Activity Day at Lower Grange Farm during the half term. We’re going to the village panto, oh yes, we are, and also a number of us will sleepover afterwards.
We’ll treat all the mums to our Mother’s Day meal at the HQ and we round the term off with a trip to Larkfield Leisure Centre for swimming and trampolining.
There are now spaces in rainbows (aged 4-7), brownies (aged 7-10), and guides (aged 10-15) in Wateringbury so please register your daughter on
https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/information-for-parents/register-a-child/
Sheena Stewart and team.
NETTLESTEAD AND WATERINGBURY PRE-SCHOOL
It has been lovely welcoming all our children and families back after the break.
It’s the year of the horse in the Chinese New Year Calendar! The children explored this through role-play, craft and books. For snack, they tried prawn crackers with sweet and sour noodles sharing them with their friends whilst practicing using chop sticks! We even attempted making our own fortune cookies.
We have used the cold snap to explore the winter season around us. The children were talking about the icy snow and frosty outdoors. Wrapped up warm, we explored the outdoors using our binoculars to bird watch. We talked about the limited food the birds can have at this time of year. So, the birds didn’t go hungry the [CB8] children helped make some birdfeeders and helped to hang them outside the setting.
Whilst walking along on the frosty field, the children collected some big bits of ice. We talked about how it is formed, shared how the ice felt when touched and finally why it started melting after a while in their hands. The children loved running across the frosty field crunching as they went along!
February 2026 holiday club (children 2-11 year)
Tuesday 17th, Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th - 9am – 4pm,
half days (9am-12.30pm or 12.30-4pm).
Booking form - email enquiries@nwps.org.uk
TESTON & WATERINNGBURY PRE-SCHOOL
As we continue to read our termly book, ‘A Superhero Like You,’ which celebrates everyday superheroes, we were delighted to welcome a local nurse and fireman into our pre-school who spoke to the children about the important work they do. A big thank you to them both for visiting and spending quality time with our children.
In our craft corner, the children created helicopters inspired by the air ambulance. We discussed healthy eating habits and why brushing your teeth is important. We've talked about recycling truck drivers and the significance of recycling. The children enjoyed sorting rubbish into our large recycling containers.
We will finish this term discussing veterinarians, why caring for our animals matters, and how we can help them when they're unwell. Our term 3 ends on Friday 13th February and activities will resume again on
Monday 23rd February.
This year we will be celebrating our 60th anniversary. We would like to mark the occasion by producing a memory book and wondered whether any of our readers ever attended or worked with us during the 60’s? If so, it would be lovely to hear what it was like, maybe you have some photos or personal memories you could share? If you can, then please get in touch.
We still have a few places left, so if you would love your child to be part of this amazing pre-school family please contact
Tina Driver: 07805 796353 testonpreschooladmissions@gmail.com
FIELDS LANE DEVELOPMENT
A TMBC decision on this proposal has now been postponed till 18th February. Protect Our Medway Valley (POMV), along with colleagues from the Parish Council's planning committee remain determined to do all we can to oppose these plans. We are preparing to speak at the meeting and are distributing details of how to make final objections to these proposals.
As well as lobbying by email those councillors voting on the development, we need as many people as possible to join us in a protest lobby from 18.30 on decision day. The address is Gibson Building, Gibson Drive, Kings Hill ME19 4LZ.
Bring the family and let's make sure our protest is heard inside the building!
We will post confirmation of the date around the village or contact POMV directly. Let’s prevent this happening and keep our village green! Dave Mitchelmore, Convenor POMV 07799 433874
WATERINGBURY CHURCH SERVICES IN FEBRUARY
Benefice website www.mwwpchurches.org
A friendly welcome awaits you at all Sunday Services which start at 10am and last for about an hour. Each service has an easy to follow booklet. Refreshments are served after these services - please stay for a chat if you can.
Sunday 1st - 10am – Morning Praise led by Barry Fisher
Saturday 7th - 3-5pm - Messy Church (for children and their carers). Messy Church is our monthly family and children's group that is a totally different approach to Church. We have Bible lessons, crafts, games and much more. If anyone would like to come along or find out more, they are very welcome to email us at messychurchwateringbury@outlook.com
Sunday 8th - Holy Communion with Rev Gary Townsend
Sunday 15th - 10am - All Age Worship
Sunday 22nd - 10am – Benefice Communion with Rev Gary
Sunday 22nd – 5pm – Benefice Refresh Service in Mereworth This month’s topic is 'The Practical Conclusion –
CS Lewis' explanation in Mere Christianity of how Jesus’ life is shared.'
Sunday 1st March - 10am – Matins with Barry Fisher
ASH WEDNESDAY 18th FEBRUARY to mark the start of Lent there will be two of Holy Communion services in the benefice:
10am in St Lawrence, Mereworth
7.30pm in St Dunstan, West Peckham[EB3]
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – A SERVICE FOR EVERYONE
FRIDAY 6th MARCH - ST JAMES THE GREAT, EAST MALLING
Service at 10.30am - Refreshments afterwards
BENEFICE LENT COURSE IN WATERINGBURY CHURCH
Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm
25th February, 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th March
For our Lent Course this year we will be showing a selection of films from a series called ‘The Chosen’. As part of each session there will be an opportunity to discuss some questions based on the film and a there will be a time of prayer. It's free and everyone is welcome to join for all 6 sessions or for as many as you can manage.
REV GARY WRITES
The Rectory, 72 The Street, Mereworth ME18 5NA gary.rev@outlook.com ( 01622 813178
PEOPLE INVESTMENT
Christmas seems a long way behind us now but this is the first opportunity I’ve had to put into Rostrum my thanks to all those involved with the life of St John the Baptist Church whose hard work and generosity over Christmas have been such a blessing. Our church building benefits greatly from the generous donations made by visitors to our services over the Christmas period and its maintenance is important if we are to continue to make it available for use by those who attend church regularly and those less so. But as Rev John Smallwood in Peter Seller’s 1963 film ‘Heavens Above!’ put it, ‘Father, Son and Holy Ghost are not a firm of builders!’ The building is important but it’s people that really matter and it is people God really cares about.
By far the greater gift in all the work that went into organising the services and running them are the people themselves that made it all happen and those we were able to welcome as a result of their efforts to our services over Christmas.
The season of Lent begins this month and as preparation for Good Friday and Easter some films from a series called The Chosen will be shown at Wateringbury church every Wednesday at 19:30 beginning on 25thFebruary. Do consider coming along. It will be a great way to reflect on the investment God has made in giving His one and only Son to suffer, die and rise again for us.
Rev Gary Townsend
Rector of Mereworth, Wateringbury and West Peckham
Could you help look after the finances of
West Peckham Church?
The vicar at West Peckham church is looking for a volunteer with suitable experience to be the treasurer and gift aid secretary for the Parochial Church Council. The role is voluntary and is vital to the successful running of St Dunstan’s Church. If you think you could help with this please contact the vicar, Rev Gary Townsend on 01622 813178 or email: gary.rev@outlook.com
CHURCH THANKS
Christmas Craft Bazaar Many thanks to all stallholders, caterers and customers. Your support raised a fantastic £1,528 to help with the upkeep of our ancient church.
Thank You to the Voices Across A20 choir and conductor Jonathan Overell for a most enjoyable evening on
Friday 5th December. The concert was repeated in Snodland church and the proceeds from both evenings divided equally between Wateringbury and Snodland. So, each received an amazing £1,012.
The Grumpy Innkeeper Thank You to all from Messy Church who contributed to making this film, especially Rev Gary who played the Innkeeper and to producer/photographer Evie. It was a fun way to tell the story of the first Christmas and enjoyed by those at the All Age Service on Sunday 21st December.
Messy Church thanks Ruth Dunn, who started Messy Church in Wateringbury 9 years ago, for all her hard work and dedication. Ruth has now handed over the leadership to Evie Skiffington.
SHEENA AND GORDON’S JAMS
Sheena and Gordon are delighted to confirm that they have presented the church with a donation of £699.22 as a percentage of their sales during 2025. This is a good increase on 2024 which was £531.82. In 2025 they made 175 batches of produce, which was up from 143 the previous year and reflects the fact that they attended 18 events this year, an increase from 14 in 2024. Once again, they have ended the year with very low stocks and production has already commenced with the first of their stalls scheduled for March. They are currently calculating how many Seville and Blood Oranges are needed for the year as well as having to find a new wholesaler as the existing one has unfortunately moved.
Sheena and Gordon are very grateful for the continued support from Nathan and his team at the Post Office and thank everyone who has supported them over the year either at official events, from the Post Office, or via doorstep sales in Mill Lane.
DECEMBER PARISH COUNCIL NOTES
Allotments - There are 2 vacant plots. It was agreed one allotmenteer could change plots.
Anti-social behaviour - Since the visits by the T&M Anti-social behaviour team had been beneficial to the village it was unanimously agreed to continue funding visits from the team in the forthcoming financial year.
Bequest from Syd Thompsett – Two community benches have been purchased and will have dedication plaques. One is for the cremation area in the cemetery the other for the grass area at the village hall.
Cameo Coffee Mornings - Cllr Vanessa Young will organize these, the first being Friday 9th [CB1] January 2026. Thereafter, the second Friday of each month. 10.30am to 11.30am in the small downstairs room at the Village Hall. The aim is to give residents a chance to meet others from different parts of the village (‘CAMEO’ - Come and Meet Each Other).
Cemetery – Fees for the cemetery were reviewed and agreed - full details are on the parish website. Some recent graves need additional soil to keep soil level with the surrounding grass surface. All gravestones will be ‘topple tested’ to comply with regulations to ensure all are safe.
CPRE - In response to a letter the Parish Council have agreed to join the Council for the Protection of Rural England.
Lorry Watch Scheme - It was agreed not to proceed with this scheme, due to the lack of support from Kent Police.
Playing Fields – The quote was accepted from Elm Fencing to repair the fencing and to provide an access gate for Wateringbury Football Club. Tenancy Agreements have been agreed for the Football Club and the Cricke[CB2] t Club to cover their use of the facilities in the coming year.
Speedwatch - During November the teams observed 170 speeding vehicles with 16 let[CB3] ters being sent by the police to repeat (twice or more) offenders and 3 letters sent to high end offenders (45+ mph in 30mph zone).
Tender documents for the new maintenance contracts have been created and will be sent to local companies for quotes.
Village Lock-up - The quote for re-pointing from Southern Stone Ltd was accepted. The work to be carried out in Spring. A quote from Elm Fencing was accepted for replacing the fencing.
January 2026 PARISH COUNCIL NOTES
Nicki Cooper is our new Parish Clerk. Her contact details remain the same as for the previous clerk: tel. 07943 937694 clerk@wateringburyparish.gov.uk
Sarah Hudson informed the meeting about the request for extension of the deadline for response to Croudace’s appeal to build 66 houses on Fields Lane to after 21stJanuary.
If TMBC’s Planning refuse the planning application, Croudace can appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, who would make the final decision. The TMBC’s Planning Committee meeting will go ahead on 18th February.
KCC matters –the KCC budget will be delayed as the discussions about the budget were continuing. It was unlikely that the council tax could be lowered by a reduction in KCC’s expenditure but there would be no closures of libraries or refuse centres.
Cemetery – There were several applications for headstones. There was a complaint about a hole for new grave which was dug too close to an existing grave.
Cemetery car park - Cars were seen at the cemetery car park late at night. Several empty nitrogen canisters were found there.
Road related matters - a meeting will be arranged with the KCC Highways representative to discuss road improvements; in particular an enhanced crossing near the school and yellow line/s in the Brucks area.
Speedwatch – the speed monitoring group had been unable to carry out their sessions due to bad weather. The analysis of their 2025 records showed the reduction in the numbers of speeding cars.
Village car park – The CCTV to monitor the hall and car park will be upgraded.
High water supply charges - PC will contact the water company, Castle Water, to investigate the reasons for very high water bills in the PC’s amenities. Drayhorse Meadows’ renter water bills are also extremely high.
The draft PC’s budget for 2026/7 was reviewed and approved by councillors. The increase in the precept for the year was estimated at 1.4% at band D.
The next monthly general meeting is on Tuesday 3rd February in the Village Hall Upper Room and starts at 7.30pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend meetings. Approved minutes of council meetings are published on the Parish Council website,Wateringburypc.org.uk