Branch is up and running and over the next 12 months held the following monthly events.
November 2023 - Guide Dogs for the Blind
This charity event was well received by members who enjoyed meeting both a trainer and user of these wonderful dogs, who were of course without question the stars of the show; an Alsatian cross puppy and a fully trained mature Labrador.
In appreciation Branch made a charitable donation on behalf of its members.
December 2023 - Mr Piano Man
Members spent an enjoyable festive afternoon singing along with Mr Piano Man who delivered a medley of songs both old and new.
There was a 'guess the Bear's name' - answer 'Boris' which was one by first name out of the hat. There was also a massive assortment of raffle prizes. The whole afternoon was very much enjoyed.
January 2024 - Woodland Trust - Bearstead Wood
John Wale, a volunteer with Bearsted Woods Trust - Spoke to the members about how this area of woodland is being preserved and the need to continue the work. Bearsted Woods is a part of Kent that not many people know about - it is open to the public and entrance is free. There is a free and enjoyable walk - which not one of the members knew of its existence.
February 2024 - Fun Quiz
March 2024 - Doodlebugs
A talk by Bob Ogley 'How Doodlebugs and Rockets affected Kent in 1944'.
A very entertaining and enjoyable afternoon spent in the company of a very interesting and enlightening speaker who injected some light-hearted humour on a very sad subject. So much so he's making a return visit March 2025 to give a talk entitled 'Biggen Hill'
April 2024 - Tools with a Mission for Africa
A Charity presentation was made for which BGW made a donation on behalf of its members
May 2024 - Missionary Ships around the World
Gehad Homsey delivered an enjoyable and enlightening afternoon talk to attending members. They heard about how the Charity's Missionary ships work around the world carrying out surgical operations and who were the beneficiaries of this charitable work.
A donation was made by branch on behalf of its members.
June 202 - Folley Wildlife Rescue
July 2024 - Kent Air Ambulance
August 2024 - British Sign Language
Ruth Corney and Karen Belcher representatives from this remarkable organisation, delivered an engaging afternoon where Branch members learnt how to sign their names, say hello, goodbye and count.
Branch members thoroughly enjoyed an insightful and educational afternoon. In appreciation, the Branch made a donation on behalf of its members to support BSL incredible efforts.
September 2024 - Annual General Meetings
Followed by Tim Bartholomew Baker 'My Acting Life in Commercials and Beyond'
October 2024 - Hop Farms in Kent
A talk given by Chris Levett.
Members enjoyed this talk as most had lived in the area and knew the hop farms.
There was a selection of specimens of local hops. Members took part in smelling and feeling the different varieties. A most enjoyable afternoon.
