We don’t think it’s fair

With the sad news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passing, it brought us together in the office to think about what connections Swale’s royal connections throughout history.

We didn’t realise that so many visits occurred to the area, and we wanted to share some of them with you, as many of you have been sharing your connections to our monarchy.

The history of Milton Regis

Milton Regis, or as it was thought to be known, Middletune was a bit of a Royal hub back in the day. It was also a significant Saxon site. Queen Seaxburgh of Kent, he widow of King Eorcenberht of Kent passed the Kingdom of Kent to her eldest son at a grand ceremony which was held at the doors of Holy Trinity Church in 680.  According to records in Ely Cathedral Queen Sexburga left her ‘life’ at the same ceremony, which refers to her leaving her secular life by taking the veil as a nun.

She went on to become the Abbess of Minster Abbey on Sheppey, at this time the island was part of the Manor of Minster.

In the Domesday Book of 1086 records the Milton as Middleton Terra Regis (Royal lands) William the Conqueror took the Manor into his personal possession and it was handed down to successive Kings, hence being known as Kings town.

A royal burial

Following the death of Henry I, son of William the Conqueror, King Stephen who was Henry’s nephew took the crown from Henry’s daughter, Empress Matilda, sparking a right royal rumble!  Civil war broke out which lasted from 1135 to 1144.  To demonstrate his power, King Stephen founded an Abbey in Faversham.  After his death, Stephen was buried in the Abbey he founded, and later joined by his wife, also called Matilda.  Their eldest son Eustance predeceased Steven but was also buried in Faversham Abbey.

Faversham Abbey was destroyed in 1538 under Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries act.  The royal bones were reportedly thrown in Faversham creek.

Royal Pilgrims

Following the murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170 pilgrims began to travel along the Roman road Watling Street from London and Rochester to Canterbury Cathedral.  Sittingbourne, at this time was a small hamlet in the Manor of Milton Regis, was identified as being a good location to provide hospitality for travellers as it was a half way point between both Rochester and Canterbury.

As Sittingbourne expanded, it provided accommodation to the frequent pilgrims and travellers including many Kings and Queens including Henry V, who famously dined at Sittingbourne in 1415 when he was on his way back from the Battle of Agincourt. In 1522 King Henry VIII feasted at the Red Lion.

In 1825 Princess (later Queen) Victoria stayed here overnight’ The Rose, which was described as ‘perhaps the most superb [lnn] of any throughout the kingdom’. In 1840, Prince Albert, also visited The Rose for refreshments as he headed to London to marry Victoria.

Other locations nearby also cashed in on the wealth of weary travellers along this path including Ospringe and Faversham. Leading to prosperity across Swale. After Queen Elizabeth I visited Tunstall, the town was awarded charters giving the citizens more rights, she also built the first Grammar School in Faversham, which can still be seen today.

Three Lions

Faversham is the only town in England that is permitted to use the Royal Arms of England that date back to the reign of King Richard I (1189-1199) under royal charter by King Edward I (1272 -1307) in recognition for it’s services providing ships and crew when required for the defence of the realm.

King Charles restored

After years living in exile in France, King Charles II was restored to the throne of England in 1660. The King’s supporters and close allies included the then Mayor of Faversham a man named Captain John Trowts.  Through Trowts’ shipping interests, money and essential correspondence reached the exiled king.

The newly restored Charles came to Faversham, to personally thank Trowts and visited his house on Court Street to do just that.

Faversham fisherman net the King

The story of the capture of King James II at Faversham on the 12^th December 1688 is well known. Catholic James, like his father before him, was an unpopular choice as Monarch.  Feeling the heat and fearing the chop, James and his closest companions tried to escape to France.

After one of his associates was recognised by local fishermen fishing off Sheerness.  The King and his companions were taken by the Faversham fishermen and brought to the town where he was held prisoner in the Queen’s Arms (now 12 Market Place). From there he was taken to the residence of the then Mayor, Thomas Southouse in Court Street. Eventually James’ party were released on the 15th of December and allowed to make their way to France

Sherness Dockyard

With the wind and tide elements slowing down shipping at Chatham Dockyard, Sheppey was chosen to be the location for ships coming in directly from the North Sea and Thames Estuary, alongside a 16^th century blockhouse.

Opened in 1823 by the Duke of Clarence (later King William IV), over 100 ships were built at Sheerness Dockyard over a 225-year period, including:

• HMS Medway
• HMS Newcastle
• HMS Scarborough
• HMS Cadmus (which in 1903, was the last warship to be launched at Sheerness).

The Queen’s Sheppey visit

Back in the autumn of 1994, Queen Elizabeth herself made her way to Sheppey for a special royal visit.

Travelling by train to Kemsley, before transferring to a limousine, she was greeted by the people of Eastchurch and workers at the former Abbott Laboratories n Queenborough.

She also officially opened a new extension at the local primary school, taking time to stop and chat with the pupils there.

Regular Royal visits

Swale has seen various visits from the Royal Family over the centuries, but here are some of the more recent ones that took place during Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 year reign.

The present Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham was surprisingly not open by Her Majesty, but instead Princess Alexandra – even though the school was named after her.

The Queen Mother officially re-opened part of Faversham’s Almshouses. The flats were modernised during 1981 and 1982, and were re-opened by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, as Lord Warden  of the Cinque Ports, of which confederation Faversham is a member.

Princess Anne paid a visit to Faversham on her trip to the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, where she was pictured chatting to a two-year-old, named Patrick Hall, in the streets.

Prince Charles, our now King Charles III has made his way to Faversham on many occasions.  To visit land that is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, To visit the national fruit collection that is based at Brogdale and he visited Shepherd Neame’s brewery in Faversham back in 1998.

And here’s a fun fact…

Our Liz at the time was working in the brewery and had heard of Prince Charles’s impending visit.

No sooner had he arrived, the once shy Liz darted to the server room to hide. Hoping he had been and gone, time had passed and nature came calling, sending Liz back out into the main brewery where she proceeded, accidentally of course, to run straight into Prince Charles himself.

Shuffling backwards in horror, she apologised to the smiling Prince, who simply wished her a ‘good morning’.

Liz was mortified but – it makes for a great story!

We wonder, as you remember The Queen with your own memories, has it made you remember a particular visit that meant a lot to you?

Faversham’s Three Lions On Our Shirts

Local Lionesses!

Recovery needed!

It’s home!

https://harrisonshomes.lifesycle.co.uk/blogs/when-is-the-best-time-to-sell-my-house-if-i-want-to-be-moved-by-christmas

If you are stuck wondering what is what’s on in Sittingbourne and beyond during Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend on the 2^nd – 5^th June, we’ve put together some of the organised events that are happening locally.

It’s another bank holiday weekend – but with a difference!!  Four days of fun to celebrate the Queen’s seventy years of service.  There are plenty of events happening around Swale, so check out our blog below and see what takes your fancy!

SITTINGBOURNE

Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway

Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June

This special June event weekend is 1940s themed! So feel free to come dressed for the occasion, whether that be a service uniform or a fabulous tea dress. There will be visiting themed displays from local groups to really immerse in the experience! There’s also a fabulous tea room serving cakes, drinks and refreshments.  Tickets are £15 for adults, £7.50 for children over 5.  (Online booking prices.)

The Warren, Bredgar, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 8AT   01622 884254
bwlr.co.uk

Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway

Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June

Edward Bear’s Teddy Bears Picnic.  This event is aimed at young children – bring your bear and a picnic or purchase some scrummy food at the Footplate Café.  There will be a treasure hunt at Kemsley Down.

For timetables and prices check out the website www.sklr.net
Sittingbourne Viaduct Station, The Wall, Sittingbourne, ME10 2XD

Jubilee Picnic and Fete, Newington, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 7NN

Saturday 4th June 1.30 to 5.00pm

The Parish Council is planning a picnic and village fete on the Recreation Ground to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. There will be a tea tent, a variety of stalls, traditional games and a raffle.  Tickets will be available in advance and on the day.

Fancy dress competition 2.00pm – The theme is ‘1952’, the year the Queen came to the throne. Further details will be in Village Voice and via Newington School. It’s time to start thinking of ideas, sewing, delving into the wardrobe or looking in charity shops.

Fun Dog Show 3.00pm

Entertainment: There will be entertainment with a 1950s theme. The Newington Concert Party will be providing some of the live music.

Entrance is free.

FAVERSHAM

Jubilee in The Rec, Faversham

Sunday 5^th June 2pm to 4pm

Faversham Recreation Ground, Park Road, Faversham ME13 8BF

Bring a picnic to Faversham Recreation Ground and listen to the stirring sounds of Faversham Mission Brass!  There are two playgrounds for children of all ages to enjoy and plenty of space to run and play.

Proms in the Market Place, Faversham

Friday 3rd June from 5.30pm

A full programme of entertainment will be taking place from 5.30pm.  The Faversham Gunpowder WI will be serving hot drinks, cakes and Pimms throughout the evening and The Railway Swing Band will be performing at 7.30pm

Free.  Market Place, Faversham, ME13 7AE.  https://favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk/community/community-events

Faversham Markets plus added entertainment

Saturday 4^th

There will be street entertainment on the Market Place on Saturday 4^th June including acoustic music and a clog dancing display!

Friday 3rd June – Charter Market in the Market Place selling a wide selection of food, drink, plants, flowers, gifts, homewares and clothes.

Saturday 4th June – Charter Market and Best of Faversham selling locally created and grown artwork, food, drink and crafts.

Sunday 5th June – Antiques and Vintage Market, with a fabulous selection of furniture, paintings, jewellery, collectibles, clothing and more.

www.favershammarket.org

Faversham Town Crown Trail

From 28^th May, visitors will be able to spot the crowns hidden around Faversham Town centre and solve the clues to be in with a chance of a prize.  Check out the Town Council’s website for details and to download a map.

https://favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk/event/faversham-town-crown-trail

Duckingham Palace at Faversham Pools

3^rd July, 2-5pm

Make a splash for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee at Faversham Pools! There will be a barbecue, music, treasure hunt and fun family activities for all to enjoy.

Booking online essential www.bookwhen.com/favershampools

Jubilee Tea Dance for Senior Citizens, Alexander Centre, Faversham

2^nd June 2022 –   12 to 3pm

To commemorate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, The Alexander Centre is putting on a Seniors Tea Dance, with dance instruction by Mr Meadowlark, accompanied by a delicious afternoon tea.

FREE ENTRY, although booking is essential.
The Alexander Centre, 15 – 17 Preston St, Faversham, Kent, ME13 8NZ

This Sceptered Isle – A musical celebration for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, The Assembly Rooms in Faversham

2^nd-6^th June

Faversham Music Club is hosting a long weekend of musical treats in  celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Click here for details https://favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk/event/this-sceptered-isle-a-musical-celebration-for-the-queens-platinum-jubilee/

Tickets can be purchased on the door.

SHEPPEY

Rose Street Cottage Coronation/Jubilee Collectibles Exhibition,  Sheerness

2nd June to 4th June

Rose Street Cottage will have an exhibition of Coronation/Jubilee collectables celebrating the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.  Rose Street Cottage and its two neighbouring properties are the only remaining homes of a number that were built for Sheerness Dockyard workers in the 18th and 19th centuries – often using timber “Chips” from the docks. They are weather boarded, roofed with Welsh slate and are Grade II listed.

Rose Street Cottage of Curiosities, 10 Rose Street, Sheerness Isle of Sheppey, Kent
Opening hours 11am to 3pm

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Lighting of the Queenborough Beacon Ceremony

Thursday 2nd June at 9.15pm

Queenborough will join the nation in lighting a beacon for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee on Thursday 2nd June on Crundalls Wharf at 9.15pm. An event coordinated by Queenborough Town Council.

Crundalls Wharf , Queenborough, Isle of Sheppey, ME11 5EL

Swale Vehicle Enthusiasts Club Annual Show, Sheerness

Saturday 5th June 2022  10am to 3pm

A wide range of classic vehicles on show, trade stands, food and bar, all profits to go to local charities and causes

Sheppey Sports Club, off Queenborough Road, Halfway, Sheerness, Kent, ME12 3DB
Entry: Adults £3, under 18s £1, under 5s free
www.svec.co.uk

Queenborough Castle Site Platinum Jubilee Picnic

Sunday 5th June 2022 between  2 pm and 6 pm

Pack a picnic fit for royalty and join the Jubilee celebrations on the grounds where a once magnificent castle stood in Queenborough on the Isle of Sheppey. Make sure you pack a bottle of bubbly and let the merriment flow.

Queenborough Castle Site, Queenborough, Isle of Sheppey, Kent ME11 5AS
www.queenborough-tc.gov.uk/queens-platinum-jubilee-castle-picnic

What Holding On Letting Go Do

Resuming Services for Holding On Letting Go

It’s another bank holiday weekend!!  Lots of events happening around Swale.  If we’ve missed any, please let us know!

Bredgar & Wormshill Light Railway

Sunday 1^st May

May Day Celebrations at the wonderful BWR! This Event Day on May Day enjoys the stunning spring spread of bluebells and forest flowers in the woodland and can be seen from the comfort of the train carriage. There will also be a Spring Treasure Hunt for the children with a prize for those who complete it. There’s also a fabulous tea room serving cakes, drinks and refreshments.  Tickets are £15 for adults, £7.50 for children over 5.  (Online booking prices)

The Warren, Bredgar, Sittingbourne, Kent ME9 8AT   01622 884254

bwlr.co.uk

Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway

This fabulous historic railway will be open Sunday 1st and Monday 2nd May.

For timetables and prices check out the website www.sklr.net

Sittingbourne Viaduct Station, The Wall, Sittingbourne, ME10 2XD

The Avenue Theatre, Sittingbourne – Charity Gig in Aid of Kent Air Ambulance

Saturday 30th April 2022 at 7.30pm (Doors open at 7pm)

Alex Lane brings together 7 of the most talented artists in Kent! Martin Morris, Gianni Scalera, Grace Hilling, Lauren Bassett, Gina Uden, Patrick Fallaize and Alex himself will each perform a selection of songs for a great cause – Kent Air Ambulance. All money raised from ticket sales is going straight to the charity.  All tickets £5.00 BOOK TICKETS ONLINE (takes you to online booking page – 6.5% booking fee applicable)

Box Office:- 01795 471140

Avenue of Remembrance, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 4DN

Avenuetheatre.co.uk

Comedy Club at The Old Brewery Store, Faversham

The Local Comedy Club is back! Lee Hurst & Guests bringing the funnies Bar Opens 6.30pm Show starts at 7.30pm

Mill Place,
Faversham, Kent
ME13 7DY

Tickets

01795 542285

The Chill Billies at the Market Inn, Faversham

Friday 29^th April

“This is Soul – funk – jazz – ska – blues – latin – rock’n’rollin’ crazy people having a good time music and all you need to do is listen, enjoy, dance.” The Chillbillies put their own twist on covers of an eclectic mix of classic tunes, made up of a very versatile 4 piece rhythm section, with high energy vocals and featuring the infamous ‘Raging Horns’™. You’ll be amazed, amused, astounded!

The Market Inn, 42 East Street, Faversham

Merton Vintage Show

The biggest vintage show in Kent is back!  A great fun day out for all the family! Steam engines, tractors, vintage motorbikes and more!  Ferret racing and dog show, plus entertainment and lots of refreshments!

30^th April, 1^st and 2^nd May.   Gates open at 10.00

Adults: £6.50 Children £3

Faversham Showground, Staple Street, Faversham, ME13 9HY

Spring Lambs at Mount Ephraim

1^st and 2^nd May 2022

Celebrate the joys of spring at Mount Ephraim this May bank holiday weekend.

Come see the gorgeous spring lambs, who will be visiting for the day, and find out more about sheep farming from farmer Alex who farms the lambs on the estate.

Take on the lamb trail and hunt for hand-painted little wooden lambs hidden in the garden.

Listen to the magnificent storyteller Raggedy Jack in the Topiary and meet the lovely Spring animals from Creepy Claws.

The restaurant and tea shop will be open.

Mount Ephraim Gardens, Staplestreet Road, Hernhill, Faversham, Kent ME13 9TX

www.mountephraimgardens.co.uk

Belmont Spring Fair

Monday 2nd May, 11am-4pm

This event is the perfect way to spend a spring day, browsing the variety of plants on sale and gathering great ideas for your garden for the coming season. With a superb collection of local crafters and artisans, you can expect to find some unique, quality hand-made gifts for friends, family and maybe yourself.

£5.00 per person, garden entry included. Children under 16 are free of charge. Tickets available to book online.

Please note, the house will not be open for tours.

Belmont House, Throwley Road, Throwley, Faversham ME13 0HH

100 Miles in 30 days – and every step Viv took, was for the amazing Holding On Letting Go

Viv’s charity walk challenge began on January 10^th and finished on February 8^th and every step she took has thus far raised an enormous £1183.25 for Holding On Letting Go. This Kent-based charity supports children who have lost somebody close to them, and helps cushion their grief.

Holding on Letting Go go a step further in their support, by offering support days and residential weekends that are free to children and their families as they come to terms with their loss, and are run by trained volunteers.

With the focus on feelings and expression, they help unlock the difficult and confusing feelings of grief within children and give them a safe space to explore their emotions in a safe and trusted space. Their service have been vital for many local families, and Viv, through her own personal experience of loss, wanted to give something back as a huge thank you for their tireless work.

Harrisons Homes are in continual support of Holding On Letting Go and have been for the last two years, raising over £16,000 in accumulated donations of £50 for every house sold with them. Viv’s donation through her fantastic fundraising has certainly given the donation pot a boost!

Viv celebrated the end of her journey with a well earned meal out (and no doubt a good foot soak), and still has her Just Giving page open for any last minute donations. You can find the page here:

http://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/holgcharitywalk

Thank you

You never know when you are going to need a charity like Holding On Letting Go to help you or your family through your own grieving processes. With little children amongst the staff here at Harrisons Homes, it feels like something that could easily need to be accessed by us, or anyone we know. Our fundraising and donations mean a great deal to us, so thank you so much for all your tremendous offerings for Viv’s 100 mile charity walk.