Greetings residents!  A warm welcome to all newcomers too.
Attached to this Newsletter (click here) you will find an Information Sheet which was primarily produced for new residents but will no doubt be of use to everyone. In case you loose your copy, the information can be found on our website or please ask any Committee member for another.

After many years we are sorry to announce that Margaret Tutt has decided to retire from the Committee. Her valued contribution to the community both with the Association and the Parish Council is greatly appreciated. Margaret’s retirement leaves a vacancy on the Committee, and if anyone is interested in joining us, please telephone Gordon Plumb (534279) or Tracey McCartney (534471) for further information.

SHOREHAM PARISH COUNCIL

By the time that you receive this Newsletter we should have a third Parish Councillor again – Joan Neave of Old London Road volunteered to fill this position. We wish her well in her new role.

The Parish Council continue to hold some of their meetings in the Memorial Hall. Full details are available on their Notice Board (near Fox’s Garage, Orpington By-Pass), on their website, or from the Parish Councillors themselves.

PLANNING ISSUES

The Committee continues to carefully monitor all planning applications within Badgers Mount. There is currently an application to demolish Bowens Folly and replace it with two large detached houses – we have objected to this because most of the site is Green Belt land. Other applications of this nature will no doubt follow.

POLICE SURGERY

Police Surgeries with our PCSO Dave Birchall are currently being held in conjunction with Coffee Mornings and are open to all residents to discuss any Police related problems. Details of dates are usually published in the Sevenoaks Chronicle and on the Parish Council Notice Board, and the next will be on 13th October. Surgeries provide a very useful contact between the residents and the Police. If you are unable to attend the Surgery PCSO Dave Birchall can be contacted by telephone on 01732 370849.

KNOCKHOLT STATION

We have objected to the proposal to completely close the Ticket Office at Knockholt Station. If you are concerned at this proposal we suggest you also write to SE Trains Ltd.

SOCIAL EVENTS

Our Summer Event
This was deemed a success by all who attended. Everyone enjoyed an afternoon of games, tea & cakes followed by an evening barbeque, music and opportunities to chat with other residents.
We would like to extend our thanks to all those who helped to make this day a success – we could not have done it without you!

Coffee Mornings
The popular weekly Thursday Coffee Mornings have now been running for a year, and about 650 cups have been served ! If you are free, why not come along between 10.30 and 12.00 and join us. Remember also that the mobile library comes into the car park alternate Thursdays. In October this will be the 13th and 27th. In addition to a range of books, including large print and tapes, videos can also be hired for £1 each.

Annual Carols Evening
Saturday, 10th December 2005
All residents, including children, are invited to attend this Evening of carol singing. Light refreshments will be provided. Full details will be available on posters and tickets will be on sale from the middle of November.

Carol Singing in Badgers Mount
In the week following the above, volunteers are needed to go Carol singing around Badgers Mount roads to raise funds for a local Charity. If you would like to take part full details will be announced at the Carols Evening or via our website.

New Year’s Eve Party
Saturday, 31st December 2005
Following on from the success of previous New Year parties we have again booked the Memorial Hall and hope you can join us to celebrate. This is an adult only event and tickets costing £7 each will be on sale from November at Coffee Mornings or by contacting Gordon or Tracey as above.
A buffet is included in the ticket price but you should bring your own drink and glasses. The party will start at 8.00 p.m. and finish at 12.30 a.m. We are arranging music to suit all ages and we intend that sign language will not be necessary to chat with your neighbour !

AND FINALLY ….
Could we remind all residents of the following:

Dog fouling - this continues to be a problem in spite of the bins which have been provided. Severe penalties of up to £1000 can now be imposed so please clear up after your dog.

Fireworks Night - this is fast approaching so please remember to be considerate of neighbours and animals and ensure that your own pets are safely inside.

Speeding vehicles - there are still inconsiderate drivers on all roads in Badgers Mount. We are still trying to obtain a reduction in the speed limit on the Orpington By-Pass and are also hopeful that Kent County Council Highways Department will install additional islands near the Highland Road junction.