Chartwell House
Chartwell House Care Home in Broadstairs opened its doors on Monday 23 June to host a Salute to the Services Strawberry Cream Tea, bringing together veterans, residents, families, local dignitaries, and military charities to celebrate the contribution of the Armed Forces community.
The event, held by the Veteran Friendly Accredited care home between 3pm and 6pm, was organised in partnership with East Kent Mind and coordinated by Armed Forces Connector Karen Brinkman, with funding from the Veterans Foundation.
Guests enjoyed freshly prepared strawberry cream teas made with 25 punnets of strawberries sourced from nearby Rose Farm Shop, reflecting Chartwell House’s commitment to supporting local producers.
The afternoon was brought to life by a musical performance from The Serenaders Choir, led by Janice Regan, and light-hearted entertainment from comedians representing the Canterbury Branch of the Royal Marines Association.
Among those in attendance were Nicola Ward from the RAF Benevolent Fund, Councillor Debra Owen-Hughes, Chair of Thanet District Council, and Councillor George Rusiecki, Mayor of Broadstairs, a turnout that reflected the wider community commitment to recognising and supporting veterans and their families.
The event formed part of East Kent Mind’s Armed Forces Connector programme, which works to improve wellbeing and reduce social isolation among veterans by building stronger community networks. Funding from the Veterans Foundation, which has awarded millions of pounds to organisations supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the UK, made the project possible.
Chartwell House resident Bob Campbell, who served 25 years in the RAF, said: “The event was first class. I got to speak to other ex-servicemen and women, and caught up with old school friends going back over 80 years. Everyone was friendly and it was thoroughly enjoyable.”
Jayne Dry, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House Care Home, said: “We were honoured to welcome so many veterans, community partners and local guests to Chartwell House for this special celebration.
“The afternoon was filled with laughter, music and wonderful conversations, and it was heartwarming to see residents and veterans sharing stories and creating new friendships.
“Events like this remind us of the importance of community and recognising the service and sacrifices made by our Armed Forces.”
As a Veteran Friendly Framework accredited care home, Chartwell House is committed to understanding and supporting the unique experiences of veterans living within the home and the wider Armed Forces community.
The accreditation reflects the home’s person-centred approach to care, which acknowledges residents’ military backgrounds, encourages reminiscence, and fosters connections with veteran support networks.
Stagecoach is honouring the country’s Armed Forces community by offering free travel across its network for serving military, service families, veterans and cadets during Armed Forces Day weekend, on 27 and 28 June.
The free travel initiative – part of Stagecoach’s ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces – will apply to all Stagecoach bus services across the UK, excluding services operated by Megabus, Transport for London (TfL), and the Bee Network.
To access free travel:
Serving military should wear uniform or present a valid military ID card.
Veterans should present a veteran’s badge or military medal.
Happy 15th birthday Cogs Club
Cogs club started in 2011. Fifteen years ago the first two clubs opened, one on 21st July in Cliftonville and the other the next day, 22nd July, in Ramsgate
The three original facilitators are still running Cogs. Sue and Sheena are still running their club out of the URC Church in Ramsgate Lesley is now running three clubs – one in Birchington at the Hall in Kent Road, and two in St Peters at the Baptist Church.
Cogs Club is based on and run in the same structured way as a Cognitive Stimulation Therapy session except it is a day of activity rather than 2 hours. It also provides the family/carer/significant other with a day’s respite.
The day is from 10am to 3pm, once a week, for as long as a member can benefit from the stimulation. It is a day of activity, stimulation, music and fun for a person with mild dementia. Fun is a key component to the day.
Cogs Clubs are for people with mild to moderate cognitive difficulties. There are eight clubs in Thanet – in Ramsgate, Cliftonville, Broadstairs, Birchington
Contact Specialist Nurse Practitioner Jackie Tuppen text 077 435 934 13 or email [email protected]
Race for Life
A Ramsgate teacher has raised more than £300 after completing the Race for in memory of her nans.
Royal Harbour Academy teacher Molly Stillman tackled the 5K challenge in Herne Bay to raise funds for Cancer Research.
The 32-year-old, who lives in Ramsgate with her partner, said the run was in memory of her Nanny Audrey and Nanny Kit Stillman.
The Race for Life raises funds for pioneering research to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. It is Cancer Research UK’s biggest series of fundraising events.
Taking place across the UK, the events include 5k and 10k routes for participants to walk, jog or run, as well as Pretty Muddy obstacle events.
Find Cancer Research UK here: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/
6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts launch Squirrels Section
The 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts are delighted to announce the launch of a brand-new Squirrels Drey for children aged 4–6.
Meeting every Monday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm at the Ice House, Ramsgate Harbour, the new section will introduce the youngest members of the Scout movement to a world of adventure, friendship and fun.
Squirrels is the newest section of Scouts, giving young people the opportunity to make friends, build confidence, explore the outdoors and develop skills for life through exciting games, crafts, challenges and adventures.
The launch marks an exciting new chapter for 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts, which already provides weekly Scouting opportunities for young people aged 6 to 18. From camping and hiking to pioneering, cooking, community projects, badge work and outdoor adventures, the Group helps young people gain confidence, learn new skills and make lifelong friendships.
The new Squirrels section means local children can now begin their Scouting journey from the age of four, giving even more families in Ramsgate the opportunity to enjoy everything Scouting has to offer.
Interest in the new section has already been strong, and families wishing to register their child for Squirrels are encouraged to join the waiting list. Families interested in Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Sea Scouts are also welcome to get in touch.
Join the Squirrels waiting list at: https://www.onlinescoutmanager.co.uk/waiting-list/6th-ramsgate-sea-scout-group-scouts-waiting-list/42937059-6c3f-463a-9041-3907dc6dd233/apply
As the Group continues to grow, 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts is also looking for more adult volunteers to join its friendly team. Whether helping with Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Sea Scouts, supporting activities behind the scenes or volunteering as a trustee, there are opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. No previous Scouting experience is needed, and full training and support are provided.
Matthew Sayer from 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts said: “We’re incredibly excited to be opening our Squirrels section and welcoming even more young people into Scouting. It’s something we’ve been working towards for some time, and we can’t wait to get started.
“We’re fortunate to already have a fantastic team of volunteers, but as the Group continues to grow we’d love to welcome more people who’d like to be part of the adventure. Even a small amount of time can make a huge difference to young people in our community.”
Anyone interested in volunteering or finding out more about joining any section at 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts can contact: [email protected]
Follow 6th Ramsgate Sea Scouts on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest adventures and opportunities to get involved.
Academy FM Thanet
As Station Manager of Academy FM Thanet, one of the things I enjoy most is seeing our community come together, and that’s exactly what we’re hoping to achieve with our Summer Fair on Sunday 5th July.
The fair is on from 10am until 2pm at The Royal Harbour Academy Upper Site playing field, we’ll be opening the gates for a fun-filled day that everyone can enjoy, and best of all, it’s free entry. Don’t worry if it’s raining because it will still go ahead but indoors.
There’ll be something for all ages, including a fantastic craft fayre, food and refreshments, classic cars, children’s entertainment including Schorcha Skate School, Chair-o-planes, 45ft inflatable assault course, bouncy castle, plus live music from Neon Rush, The Rock Choir and Kirsty Hawkins.
Community has always been at the heart of Academy FM. As a local charity-run radio station, we’re passionate about bringing people together, showcasing the incredible talent and local businesses we have here in Thanet. Our Summer Fair is a wonderful opportunity to do just this.
I’d like to say a huge thank you to our Sponsors, Artists, and Academy fm volunteers who are helping make the day possible. Their support means so much and without them the event wouldn’t be possible.
Whether you’re coming for the music, the shopping, the family fun or simply a chat with friends, we’d love to see you there. So pop the date in your diary, bring the family along and join us for what promises to be a fantastic time.
Debbie Day
Yoakley House
The stunning gardens of Yoakley will open to visitors this July for a special Open Gardens Afternoon, offering a rare opportunity to explore beautifully maintained grounds while supporting a local charity.
Taking place on Sunday 5 July, the event welcomes members of the public to wander through the gardens, enjoy seasonal planting at its peak and discover a peaceful green oasis set within the grounds of Yoakley House, its almshouses and care home.
Head Gardener Paul Twyman and his dedicated team have been carefully nurturing plants to ensure the gardens are looking their very best. Visitors can expect colourful borders, mature planting, hidden corners and plenty of inspiration for their own outdoor spaces.
As well as enjoying the grounds, guests will be able to relax with traditional tea and delicious homemade cake, making the afternoon a perfect summer outing for families, friends and garden enthusiasts.
The event is organised in support of Michael Yoakley’s Charity, with funds helping to enhance life for residents and maintain facilities that might otherwise be beyond the charity’s means. Previous projects funded through community fundraising have included garden lighting and commercial washing machines, demonstrating the lasting impact of local support.
A spokesperson for Yoakley said: “Our Open Gardens Afternoon is one of the highlights of the summer. It is a wonderful opportunity for the local community to enjoy these beautiful gardens, meet residents and supporters, and help raise funds for the charity. We look forward to welcoming both returning visitors and those discovering Yoakley for the first time.”
Advance booking is recommended, tickets will also be available on the day (cash preferred).
Open Gardens Afternoon
Sunday 5 July, 2.30 to 4.30pm
Yoakley House, Drapers Close, Margate Entry £5, bookable in advance, or on the day
Tea, coffee and homemade cakes available
For tickets and further information, visit: www.yoakleycare.co.uk/open-gardens-5th-july-2026/
Margate Mayor guided tour
Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, the Mayor of Margate, Cllr Leo Britcher, invites people to join him on a special evening tour to celebrate Margate Charter Day (29 July).
Celebrating 169 years since the town gained its Charter and secured its independence from Dover, the walk will conclude at the Margate Steps to enjoy a classic Turner sunset.
Tour Details
Date: Wednesday 29 July
Tour departs: 7:30pm from Margate Railway Station
(Optional pre-tour gathering details to be confirmed.)
Tickets: £20 per person
(Booking fees apply to online bookings only.)
Places are limited and advance booking is essential.
All in support of the Mayor’s Fund.
To reserve your place
Pay by BACS
Margate Charter Trustees
Sort Code: 40-32-02
Account Number: 71192787
Or book online Guided Tour of Margate with the Mayor at Margate Train Station – TicketSource
Led by Margate Walking Tours, the tour will explore Margate’s Roman, Viking and Dutch roots, its health tourism heyday, Dreamland, the Mechanical Elephant, Bowie, Turner and much more.
Whether you know Margate well or are visiting for the first time, we hope you will join us in celebrating the town’s rich history while supporting local causes.
Our friends at Thorley Taverns have kindly offered a complimentary drink to every guest on the Mayor’s Guided Tour of Margate.
So after our Turner sunset, we’ll be heading to Barnacles for a well-earned glass of wine or soft drink and a chance to reflect on the stories of Margate*
Many thanks to Thorley Taverns for helping make this year’s Charter Day celebrations even more special.
Booking essential as numbers are limited.
If you have any accessibility requirements, please contact us directly and we will do our best to help you enjoy the tour.
Serenaders
On Saturday 4th July, we are once again holding our Annual Charity Concert at St. Philips Church, Summerfield Road, Palm Bay Cliftonville, commencing at 7.30pm. Tickets are once again held at a very reasonable price of £5.
Money raised will benefit the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance. A cash collection for this charity will be held during the concert.
For tickets please contact our Musical Director Janice Regan, on 01843 220247
We are recruiting Sopranos, Altos and Seconds to become members of the choir for our forthcoming concerts in the Autumn.
Please contact Janice Regan for more details.
Reading Street Village Open Gardens
Saturday 4th July, 10am – 4pm, CT10 3AZ
Tickets £5.00 and accompanied children free
Visit some beautiful gardens and Taddy’s Allotments
Plants and local produce on sale. Refreshments including fabulous cakes and lunches, eat in or take away.
Martha Trust
Music on the Farm 2026, a fabulous one day charity event in aid of Martha Trust in conjunction with Barclays UK, took place in the fields of Solley’s Ice Cream Parlour in Ripple on Sunday 14th June.
It was a glorious day which, after costs, raised over £44,000 for the charity. This will go directly to the care of the young people and adults with profound disabilities who live at Martha Trust.
A host of local acts performed a variety of musical styles from modern hits to bluesy beats, Rock to Funky House.
The line up included Deal Ukulele Club, Muzz and Joe Duo, Situationist!, Lofty Harris , Shiva and Grooveshack.
There was also dance displays by Dance with Danni.
Performer and freelance sign language interpreter Anna Kitson took to the stage compere the day and the Auction was undertaken by Martha’s own Kerry Banks BEM and Anna.
Chris Mansfield, Sharon Powell, and Amy Green were the official photographers for the day.
Director of Solley’s Keith Morrison said, “Solley’s are long term supporters of Martha Trust, and we are delighted to have worked with Martha on Music on the Farm. It was a huge success and raised lots of valuable income for an incredibly worthy cause. It was a cracking day out”.
Guests enjoyed picnics whilst also sampling the delicious treats on offer from the various onsite vendors which included Solleys own bar, Ruby, Rose & Pearl and The Pimms bike from Penny Events.
The Larder, Big Pan Foods, BJ’s Pizza, Bagel Rock, Crumble Cups, KC’s Confectionery and Solleys also served delicious food, sweets, treats and Ice cream. All vendors gave 20% of their sales back to Martha.
A Team from Barclays were involved in the day plus offered their match funding, the event was sponsored by some fantastic businesses including Solleys Ice-cream, 2026 Headline Event Sponsors Superior Healthcare Group, Main Sponsorship with Cooks Fabrications, Reclamet Ltd & Jenkinson Estates.
Security was provided by I-Deal Security Ltd and Road & Car Park Marshalls by EVOS -Event Volunteers of Swale.
Other Sponsorships included, HRD Electricals, Mark One Sound & Light, ,Moonreach Children’s Services, SMET Training, plus many other companies giving gifts in kind to make the day possible.
Managing Director of Reclamet Ltd, Stuart Mann said: “The work that Martha Trust does day in, day out is genuinely inspiring. Music on the Farm is a fantastic event and a real testament to the support this community gives to such an important cause. We’re proud to be involved and pleased to support a charity that makes such a positive difference to so many people and their families.”
There was plenty to keep the kids busy too with six hours of children’s entertainment organised by Events Planner Lizzie Willis and delivered on the day by Errin Ashby Fendt included storytelling and games, Dynamic Sports Coaching Ltd, Christiane Engel & Maddie4Music.
There was also Face Painting by Petal & Punk Facepainting, plus Karl’s festival stall who all gave 20% to the charity too along with Forever Jewellery.
Mother Earth Therapies were also present offering seated massages with 100% of takings to Martha.
Kerry Banks BEM, Fundraising & Events Manager for Martha Trust, said: ” We are always so excited to be working with Solley’s Farm Ice cream on this our flagship event, especially with them being long term supporters of Martha. It was fabulous to see people having so much fun plus great to have some of the wonderful crew from Deal Fire Station present for the day. A huge Thank you to all our amazing Volunteers, Sponsors, Vendors and Musicians and to each and every one of you that attended the event.”
The date has been set for next year – Sunday 27th June 2027.Tickets and gazebo plots go on sale beginning of January 2027. The event sells out every year.
If any businesses would like to Sponsor this event , please contact [email protected] or call 01304 610448.
