Rose INN

A little history about the Rose Inn, Tovil  

The Rose Inn is a charming traditional pub situated in the heart of the village of Tovil, Kent. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of beverages.

History

The Rose Inn has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, and it is believed to have been originally a coaching inn. Over the years, it has been a popular gathering place for villagers and travelers alike.

Food and Drink

The Rose Inn offers a traditional pub menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu includes a variety of pub classics, such as fish and chips, burgers, and pies, as well as a selection of lighter options. The pub also has a well-stocked bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.

Atmosphere

The Rose Inn has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a traditional pub décor and a friendly staff. The pub has a number of different areas, including a bar, a restaurant, and a beer garden.

Local Events

The Rose Inn is a popular venue for local events, such as live music nights, quiz nights, and charity fundraisers. The pub also has a number of different sports teams, including a football team and a cricket team.

Overall

The Rose Inn is a charming traditional pub that is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. It offers delicious food, a wide selection of beverages, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

My Rochester

Part of the medway towns where I live, wonderful place and full of history. 

 Rochester, a captivating town nestled on the banks of the River Medway in Kent, England, boasts a rich and intricate history that spans centuries, tracing its roots back to the Roman era. Let's delve into the intriguing past of this remarkable town:

Roman Era (43 AD - 410 AD)

In 43 AD, the Romans established a stronghold named Durobrivae at Rochester, marking the town's origins. Strategically positioned along Watling Street, a major Roman road, Durobrivae served as a vital military outpost and a flourishing trading hub along the River Medway.

Saxon and Norman Rule (410 AD - 1066)

Following the withdrawal of Roman legions, Rochester's significance as a center of commerce and religion continued under Saxon rule. In 604 AD, Justus, a companion of St. Augustine, established the first bishopric in Rochester, further solidifying its religious prominence.

The Norman conquest of 1066 brought significant transformations to Rochester. The construction of Rochester Castle, initiated in 1077 under Bishop Gundulf, transformed the town into a formidable fortress, playing a crucial role in defending the kingdom.

Medieval Era (1066 - 1500)

During the Middle Ages, Rochester thrived as a bustling market town and a prominent pilgrimage destination. The town's imposing cathedral, renowned for its Norman architecture, drew pilgrims from across England.

However, Rochester's strategic location along the River Medway also made it a target for conflicts. The town faced numerous sieges, including the notable one in 1215 during the reign of King John.

Tudor and Stuart Era (1500 - 1714)

The Tudor period brought religious reforms that had a profound impact on Rochester. The dissolution of monasteries, including Rochester Cathedral Priory, marked a significant turning point in the town's religious landscape.

Despite these changes, Rochester's importance as a market and port remained strong throughout the Tudor era. The town's industries, particularly those related to textiles and agriculture, flourished.

During the Stuart era, Rochester witnessed the tumultuous events of the English Civil War and its aftermath. The town's fortifications played a strategic role in the conflict, with Rochester Castle changing hands between the opposing factions.

Georgian, Victorian, and Modern Era (1714 - Present)

The Georgian era brought economic growth and expansion to Rochester. The town's industries, including paper mills and ropeworks, experienced a surge in activity.

During the Victorian era, Rochester underwent rapid urbanization and industrialization. The construction of the Chatham Dockyard further cemented the town's importance as a center of maritime activity, drawing a diverse population of workers and merchants.

The 20th century brought significant social and economic changes to Rochester. The town faced challenges during the World Wars, but it emerged with a renewed focus on heritage preservation and tourism.

Today, Rochester stands as a vibrant and welcoming town, its rich heritage interwoven into its streets, buildings, and the hearts of its residents. The town's captivating history, coupled with its modern amenities and cultural attractions, makes it a fascinating destination for visitors seeking a glimpse into England's captivating past.

When your gone

 

Is this what its going to be like when your gone, I wonder

In solitude's embrace, I sit and ponder, A symphony of silence, my thoughts asunder. Your absence lingers, a haunting melody, Echoing in the chambers of my memory.

The world around me fades into a haze, As I'm lost in the labyrinth of my days. The clock ticks on, a relentless beat, Marking the passage of time, oh so bittersweet.

Is this what it will be like when you're gone, A world devoid of laughter, a life forlorn? A void so deep, no words can express, A heart aching, yearning for redress.

Yet, amidst the sorrow, a glimmer of hope, A promise of solace, a way to cope. In the tapestry of memories, your spirit resides, A beacon of love that forever abides.

So I'll cherish these moments, each fleeting embrace, Holding them tight, in this desolate space. For in the quietude of my soul's refrain, Your presence lingers, easing the pain.

Thomas Waghorn, Chatham

 This is a local landmark usually with cones on his head and arms, think it stems from the local college as a dare. 

Thomas Fletcher Waghorn: A Pioneer in Overland Mail

Opens in a new windowen.wikipedia.org

Thomas Fletcher Waghorn

Thomas Fletcher Waghorn was a British naval officer and merchant seaman who played a pivotal role in revolutionizing postal communication between Great Britain and its vast colonial empire. Born in Chatham, Kent, in 1800, Waghorn was a man of remarkable energy, determination, and vision. He embarked on a series of daring expeditions to establish overland mail routes that bypassed the lengthy and often perilous sea journeys around Africa.

Waghorn's Early Career and Overland Mail Vision

Waghorn's naval career began at the tender age of twelve, joining the frigate Tigris in 1812. He later rose to the rank of lieutenant and served in various capacities, including a stint as a midshipman on HMS Bahama. His experiences exposed him to the challenges and inefficiencies of conventional postal routes, particularly for reaching distant colonies like India.

In 1829, Waghorn presented his bold proposal to the British government: an overland mail route connecting England to India via Egypt, the Red Sea, and the Persian Gulf. His plan aimed to significantly reduce the time it took for mail to reach India, which at the time could take up to six months via the sea route.

The Establishment of the Overland Route

Despite initial skepticism, Waghorn's proposal gained traction, and in 1832, he was commissioned to establish the first trial run of the overland mail route. His journey was fraught with obstacles, including political unrest, logistical challenges, and harsh desert conditions. However, Waghorn's perseverance prevailed, and he successfully completed the trial run, reducing the mail delivery time to India to just 42 days.

Encouraged by this success, Waghorn continued to advocate for the expansion and improvement of the overland mail system. He made several more journeys to Egypt, the Middle East, and India, negotiating with local rulers and establishing postal stations along the route. His efforts resulted in the establishment of a regular overland mail service between London and Calcutta, India, in 1845.

Waghorn's Legacy and Connection to Chatham

Thomas Fletcher Waghorn's contributions to postal communication were immense. His overland mail routes not only revolutionized postal services but also facilitated trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations between Britain and its colonies. Waghorn's legacy continues to be felt today, as the concept of overland mail routes has evolved into modern transportation and communication networks.

Born and raised in Chatham, Waghorn maintained a strong connection to his hometown throughout his life. He was a regular visitor to Chatham and often spoke fondly of his childhood memories there. His legacy lives on in Chatham, where a statue of him stands proud, commemorating his pioneering spirit and his contributions to global communication.

Thomas Fletcher Waghorn's story is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination. His unwavering belief in the potential of overland mail routes transformed the way the world communicated, paving the way for a more interconnected and interconnected global community.

The Three Colts Pub c1900

 To anyone thats interested on the Pub c1900   

The Three Colts pub in Sandwich, Kent, was a popular establishment during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was located on The Strand, a waterfront street overlooking the River Stour, and it was known for its friendly atmosphere and its wide selection of beers and ales.

The pub was first mentioned in historical records in 1792, but it is believed to be much older than that. The building itself is a Grade II listed building, which means that it is of historical or architectural interest.

The Three Colts was a popular spot for both locals and visitors alike. It was often used as a meeting place for fishermen, boatmen, and other workers who lived in the area. It was also a popular place for tourists who were visiting Sandwich.

The pub was known for its wide selection of beers and ales. It also served food, such as sandwiches, pies, and stews.

The Three Colts was a popular place to socialize and enjoy a drink. It was also a place where people could go to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The pub was damaged by fire in 1918, and it was subsequently rebuilt. However, it never regained its former popularity, and it closed its doors in the 1960s.

The building that once housed the Three Colts pub is now a private residence. However, the pub's history is still remembered by many people in Sandwich.

Gardening Tips

I spent over 32 years in the trade, owning a landscaping business, just passing on some tips that may help.  

Gardening Tips for Beginners

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that can provide you with fresh food, beautiful flowers, and a sense of accomplishment. It's also a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. If you're new to gardening, here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right plants for your climate and location.

Not all plants can grow in all climates. Do some research to find out which plants are best suited for your area. You'll also need to consider the amount of sunlight your garden gets. Some plants need full sun, while others can tolerate shade.

2. Amend your soil.

The type of soil you have will affect how well your plants grow. If your soil is too sandy or too clay-like, you'll need to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. This will help to improve the drainage and fertility of your soil.

3. Plant at the right time of year.

Different plants need to be planted at different times of year. For example, you'll want to plant cool-season crops, such as lettuce and peas, in the spring or fall. Warm-season crops, such as tomatoes and peppers, should be planted after the last frost in the spring.

4. Water your plants regularly.

The amount of water your plants need will depend on the type of plant, the weather, and the time of year. Generally speaking, you'll want to water your plants deeply and infrequently. This means watering them less often but for longer periods of time.

5. Mulch around your plants.

Mulch is a layer of material that is spread around the base of plants. This helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. There are many different types of mulch available, such as wood chips, straw, and bark.

6. Fertilize your plants.

Plants need nutrients to grow strong and healthy. You can fertilize your plants with organic or synthetic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or aged manure, are released slowly into the soil. Synthetic fertilizers are released quickly into the soil and can be more effective in providing plants with the nutrients they need.

7. Control pests and diseases.

Plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. There are a number of ways to control pests and diseases, such as using organic or synthetic pesticides, planting resistant varieties of plants, and practicing good sanitation.

8. Harvest your crops at the right time.

The time to harvest your crops will depend on the type of plant. For example, you'll want to harvest tomatoes when they are red and fully ripe. If you harvest your crops too early, they will not be as flavorful. If you harvest them too late, they may start to rot.

9. Enjoy your harvest!

Gardening is a labor of love, but it's also a very rewarding experience. There's nothing quite like enjoying the fruits of your labor by eating fresh vegetables and flowers that you've grown yourself.

Additional tips:

• Start small. If you're new to gardening, don't try to do too much too soon. Start by planting a few easy-to-grow plants.
• Join a gardening club or take a gardening class. This is a great way to learn from experienced gardeners and get advice on how to grow your own plants.
• Be patient. Gardening takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if your plants don't grow as quickly as you'd like. Just keep at it and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful and bountiful garden.

Law and Order, what are your thoughts

 The Law of Britain what are your thoughts.

Law and order in Britain is a complex and multifaceted issue with a long history. The current system of law and order in Britain is based on a number of principles, including:

• The rule of law: This means that everyone is subject to the law, regardless of their status or position in society.
• The independence of the judiciary: This means that the judges are free from political interference and are able to make impartial decisions based on the law.
• The presumption of innocence: This means that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty.
• The right to a fair trial: This means that an accused person has the right to be represented by a lawyer and to have a trial that is conducted according to the law.

The system of law and order in Britain is designed to protect the public from crime and to uphold the rights of individuals. However, it is not without its flaws. One of the most common criticisms of the system is that it is too lenient on criminals. Another criticism is that the system is too expensive and that it does not do enough to prevent crime.

Despite these criticisms, the system of law and order in Britain is generally considered to be effective. Crime rates have been declining in recent years, and the public is generally satisfied with the level of safety in Britain.

Here are some of the key challenges facing law and order in Britain today:

• The rise of cybercrime: Cybercrime is a growing problem that is difficult to detect and prosecute.
• The increasing complexity of crime: Crime is becoming increasingly complex and sophisticated, which is making it more difficult for law enforcement to investigate and prevent.
• The changing nature of crime: Crime is becoming more diverse and is being committed by a wider range of people.

The government is taking a number of steps to address these challenges. These include:

• Investing in new technologies to combat cybercrime: The government is investing in new technologies to help law enforcement agencies detect and prosecute cybercrime.
• Improving the training of law enforcement officers: The government is providing more training to law enforcement officers to help them deal with the increasing complexity of crime.
• Working with communities to prevent crime: The government is working with communities to prevent crime by investing in youth services and other crime prevention initiatives.

The future of law and order in Britain will be shaped by a number of factors, including the changing nature of crime, the increasing use of technology, and the growing importance of community-based crime prevention. It is important to continue to invest in law enforcement, to develop new technologies to combat crime, and to work with communities to prevent crime.

How to build a Timber Deck for your garden

 I spent 32 years in the garden landscaping trade running my own business.  This is the way tobuild a deck that will last. 

Building a timber deck for your garden can be a rewarding and enjoyable project that will add value to your home and provide you with a beautiful outdoor space to relax and entertain. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a timber deck for your garden:

Step 1: Plan and design your deck

Before you start building your deck, it is important to take some time to plan and design it. This will help you to ensure that your deck is the right size and shape for your garden and that it meets your needs.

• Consider the size of your garden: You will need to make sure that your deck is not too large for your garden. You also need to make sure that there is enough space around the deck for people to walk and for plants to grow.

• Think about how you will use your deck: Will you be using your deck for relaxing, entertaining, or both? This will help you to decide on the size and layout of your deck.

• Draw a plan of your deck: This will help you to visualize your deck and make sure that it is the right size and shape. You can also use this plan to get an estimate of the materials you will need.

Step 2: Gather your materials

Once you have a plan for your deck, you can start to gather your materials. You will need:

• Timber: You will need to choose a type of timber that is suitable for outdoor use. Some popular choices include cedar, redwood, and pine.

• Joists: Joists are the horizontal beams that support the deck boards. You will need to choose joists that are the right size and strength for your deck.

• Ledger board: The ledger board is the beam that attaches the deck to the house. You will need to choose a ledger board that is the right size and strength for your deck.

• Deck boards: Deck boards are the planks that make up the surface of the deck. You will need to choose deck boards that are the right size and thickness for your deck.

• Fasteners: You will need a variety of fasteners to attach the different parts of the deck together. These include nails, screws, and bolts.

Step 3: Prepare the site

Once you have gathered your materials, you can start to prepare the site for your deck. This will involve:

• Clearing the area: Remove any plants, debris, or other obstacles from the area where you will be building your deck.

• Leveling the ground: Make sure that the ground is level and smooth. This will help to ensure that your deck is stable and level.

• Digging footings: Footings are the concrete supports that will support the deck posts. You will need to dig holes for the footings and pour concrete into them.

Step 4: Build the deck frame

The deck frame is the skeleton of the deck. It is made up of the posts, beams, joists, and ledger board.

• Install the posts: The posts are the vertical beams that support the deck. You will need to attach the posts to the footings and make sure that they are plumb and level.

• Install the beams: The beams are the horizontal beams that support the joists. You will need to attach the beams to the posts and make sure that they are level.

• Install the joists: The joists are the horizontal beams that support the deck boards. You will need to attach the joists to the beams and make sure that they are spaced evenly apart.

• Install the ledger board: The ledger board is the beam that attaches the deck to the house. You will need to attach the ledger board to the house and make sure that it is level.

Step 5: Install the deck boards

The deck boards are the planks that make up the surface of the deck. You will need to:

• Choose the right type of deck board: There are many different types of deck boards available. You will need to choose a type that is suitable for your climate and that you like the look of.

• Cut the deck boards to size: You will need to cut the deck boards to the right size to fit your deck.

• Install the deck boards: You will need to attach the deck boards to the joists. You can use nails, screws, or hidden fasteners.

Step 6: Finish your deck

Once you have installed the deck boards, you can finish your deck by adding a railing, stairs, and any other finishing touches that you like.

Here are some additional tips for building a timber deck for your garden:

• Make sure that you follow all of the building codes in your area.

• Hire a professional if you are not comfortable building a deck yourself.

• Get the necessary permits before you start building your deck.

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Peace is needed

 Areas at war 

In a world where strife and conflict reign, Where shadows linger, leaving hearts in pain, Amidst the chaos, a voice so clear, Whispers of peace, a message to adhere.

Peace, not the absence of opposing might, But harmony's embrace, a beacon shining bright, Where differences dissolve, and unity takes hold, A tapestry of souls, their stories to unfold.

Peace, a fragile flame, yet strong and true, Resisting the winds of discord, ever new, A battle waged not with swords or guns, But with empathy's touch, where hatred shuns.

Peace, a garden where compassion grows, Nurtured by kindness, where tolerance bestows, Where hands reach out, bridging every divide, In unity's embrace, where hearts abide.

Peace, the only battle worth waging, A symphony of souls, their voices engaging, A symphony of compassion, a symphony of grace, In harmony's embrace, humanity's rightful place.

Opinion on cancer

 Those who have been touched by cancer do not need me to say how soul destroying it can be.  This is my opinion and its only an opinion.  Please take care!

Cancer is a complex disease that is difficult to cure because it involves many different factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and the environment.

Here are some of the reasons why cancer is so hard to cure:

• Cancer is not one disease. There are over 200 different types of cancer, each with its own unique set of characteristics. This makes it difficult to develop treatments that are effective for all types of cancer.

• Cancer cells are very good at hiding from the immune system. This makes it difficult for the body to fight off the disease.

• Cancer cells can mutate quickly. This means that they can develop resistance to treatments, making them even more difficult to cure.

• Cancer is often diagnosed late. This means that the disease has had time to grow and spread, making it more difficult to treat.

Here are some things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting cancer:

• Eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.

• Get regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• Don't smoke. Smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer.

• Protect yourself from the sun. Limit your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and wear protective clothing when you are outdoors.

• Get regular cancer screenings. Regular screenings can help to detect cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Working night shifts may increase the risk of some types of cancer, such as breast cancer and leukemia. This is because working night shifts can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythm, which can affect hormone levels and cell growth. However, more research is needed to confirm this link.

I hope this helps!

The government

 What I believe at present. 

I think the government needs to be more transparent and accountable to the people. They need to be more open about how they spend our money and be more willing to listen to our concerns.

The government also needs to be more effective in addressing the challenges facing our country. They need to be more proactive in solving problems like poverty, homelessness, and climate change.

I believe that the government can be a force for good in our world, but only if it is responsive to the needs of the people.

I would like to see the government focus on the following:

• Ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare.
• Creating a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
• Protecting the environment for future generations.
• Promoting peace and cooperation between nations.

I believe that the government can make a positive difference in the world, but it needs to be willing to work for the people and be held accountable for its actions.

What really happens in the house of commons, just my thought

What really goes on in the house of commons I have often wondered.

 The House of Commons is the elected chamber of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It is responsible for making laws, debating government policy, and holding the government to account. The House of Commons is made up of 650 Members of Parliament (MPs), who are elected by the public to represent their constituencies.

The day-to-day work of the House of Commons is divided into a number of different activities, including:

• Debates: MPs debate a wide range of issues, including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. Debates are typically held in the House of Commons Chamber, and they are broadcast live on television and online.

• Questions: MPs can ask questions of government ministers, either in the House of Commons Chamber or in written form. This is a way for MPs to scrutinize the government and to hold it to account.

• Committees: There are a number of committees in the House of Commons, which examine specific issues in detail. Committees can take evidence from experts and witnesses, and they can make recommendations to the government.

• Legislation: The House of Commons is responsible for passing legislation, which is the process by which laws are made. Legislation is typically introduced in the form of a bill, which is then debated and amended by MPs.

• Scrutiny: The House of Commons is responsible for scrutinizing the work of the government. This includes examining government spending, investigating government policy, and holding government ministers to account.

In addition to these day-to-day activities, the House of Commons also plays a number of other important roles, including:

• Representing the interests of the people: MPs are elected to represent the interests of their constituents. They do this by raising their constituents' concerns in Parliament, and by campaigning for policies that will benefit their constituents.

• Passing laws that improve people's lives: The House of Commons is responsible for passing laws that will improve the lives of people in the UK. This includes laws on things like education, health, and the environment.

• Holding the government to account: The House of Commons is responsible for holding the government to account. This means making sure that the government is acting in the best interests of the people, and that it is spending public money wisely.

The House of Commons is a vital part of the UK's democracy. It plays a crucial role in making sure that the government is accountable to the people, and that the UK is a fair and just society.