AIACE United Kingdom

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Email: aiace-uk@ec.europa.eu

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Welcome to the AIACE-UK Kent group. The group was set up in October 2006. The main aims of the group are to:

1. provide the opportunity to meet in order to share experiences;
2. create a forum for the exchange of information on various topics of particular interest related to social welfare;
3. support a programme of activities bringing together those interested in cultural visits and sporting activities;
4. assist the newly retired to integrate;
5. assist surviving spouses in dealing with the Commission formalities.

The Group currently has a membership of about 45 former officials, spouses and survivors.

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2011 Activities

Recreational Activities

Walking group

On the morning of 17 March, a brave group of seven AIACE/Kent members set off in thick cloud for a four and a half mile circular vvalk from the Ringlestone Inn in the Kent Downs near Harrietsham, organised by Barbara and Richard Dittrich-McGill. Through fields of frolicking lambs they marched; up hill and down dale they trekked, before returning in bright sunshine to the Ringlestone Inn for a well deserved lunch.

The hardy walkers

Cultural visits

On Wednesday, 13 April, 16 members of the Kent Group gathered in the Rochester cathedral tearooms and then went on to make a most interesting guided tour of the cathedral, in which they learnt something of the history of the cathedral and the notable personalities who had figured in its history. Following the tour of the cathedral the group enjoyed lunch at the Don Vincenzo restaurant. After lunch, some members explored Rochester Castle. Valerie and Roger Dean extended the hospitality of their home to provide afternoon tea. After a most enjoyable day, we extended our grateful thanks to Roger and Valerie who had organised the event.

Cathedral history with a smile

On Thursday, 19 May, a bright sunny day, 18 members of Kent Group assembled at Scotney Castle. Thanks to Barbara Dittrich's prudent planning, the party was immediately issued with timed entry tickets to tour the 'new' house (built by Edward Hussey in 1837) which had been lived in by the Hussey family until 2006, when Betty Hussey died. During our tour we were able to see the rich variety of works of art and beautiful furnishings (also the house cat, a permanent member of the household in fulfillment of the wishes of Betty Hussey). After the house tour we were introduced to the extensive gardens and the ruined 'old' Scotney Castle by the deputy head gardener and then we were free to explore, including a search for dinosaur footprints in the quarry! These activities having stimulated a healthy appetite, we adjourned to the Green Cross Inn at Goudhurst to partake of an excellent lunch. After which, it remained only to thank Barbara and Richard for organising the event.

We've seen the house; now for the gardens

On Sunday 31 July 10 members accepted Kieran and Pamela O'Cuneen's invitation to join them at the annual Lees Court pig roast and garden party. As has been the tradition, the weather was gloriously fine, perfect for the barbecue and the numerous outdoor activities arranged for the residents and their guests. After the delicious meal of roast pig, we had ample time to explore the beautiful Lees Court gardens and the various stalls selling second hand books, records, etc before returning to Kieran and Pamela's apartment for tea and cake. Altogether a thoroughly enjoyable day, for which we expressed our warmest thanks to our hosts.

Another successful barbecue

On Sunday evening, 20 August, 10 members and friends assembled In the amphitheatre in front of Goodnestone House for a picnic meal as a prelude to enjoying an outdoor performance of two short operas - The Impresario by Mozart and Pagliacci by Leoncavallo - by the Garden Opera Company. At a time when rain was causing suspension of the Test Match at The Oval, we were exceptionally lucky with the weather which continued bright and sunny until sunset. At the close of proceedings we joined in expressing our thanks to Alan and Diana Forrest who had organised the event.

Administrative Activities

Group AGM

The 2011 AGM was held at The Halfway House, Challock, on 14 October.The record of the business transacted may be found under the heading "AGM Reports" on the Kent Forum in the Members' Area. Following the meeting, participants enjoyed an excellent meal and an abundance of lively conversation.

AGM - and now for the food!

Concerts

One of our members, John Astin, has drawn our attention to concerts in Canterbury Cathedral by the Canterbury Choral Society. The next concert will be Family Carols on Friday, 16 December 2011.