the boundaries. Although parish rates were levied on all property irrespective of the religious persuasion of any of the owners, expenses were paid out on the church or the poor. "Oyle for bells, nails and hinges", "bill four ropes", "sweeping the vestry chimney". The bell-ringers were paid to ring the bells on a variety of occasions They were none of your wedding rings of today but prolonged affairs. In 1708 "Ringing the bells for the defeat of the French". The same year - "for the Queen's birthday"; "from deliverance from Gun powder treason". In Queen Victoria's reign there were at least three special bell ringing sessions to celebrate the Queen's birthday, her accession to the throne and her coronation. Later the Prince of Wales' birthday was added to the list.

This article ends this brief account of some of Hartlip's local history. If you can add to it from something known to you from a book, the house you live in, passed down from former residents, then write it down and let your vicar have it. It can be added to the accumulated knowledge of the, parish.

R.A.B.

ROUND THE SOCIETIES

Women's Institute

The July meeting commenced sadly with our last silent tribute to the late Mrs. Read. On a happier note, good things in store include a September visit to Hothfield Flower Festival and a Cake-Icing class in November, whilst a past effort, our Cake Stall at the Hartlip Barbecue, realised £7 4s. 0d. for the Village Hall Fund. Sincere thanks to all who assisted.

Unfolding the story of the founding of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Organisation in 1919, Miss Degan stressed that the greatest gift a "Seeing Eye" dog brings to his owner is that of independence. Raffling the cold sweets from the competition and donating £2 0s. 6d. we helped a little towards training, costs and by washing and collecting milk bottle tops (which raise £60 a week) we who see can help even more. There are nearly 500 blind people waiting and hoping.

Until September 12th at 2.30 p.m., when, our Mrs. Wallis will tell us about her holiday in British Honduras, best wishes everyone for the summer break.

N.T.

Youth Club

Although supposedly "on Holiday ", the Youth Club looks like being exceedingly busy during August. At a general meeting on July 5th, about twenty older members agreed that the Club, if continued on its present basis, would shortly become devoid of Members. As a result, negotiations were started with the Hall Committee with a view to converting the Old Hall (next to the kitchen) into a lounge. Proposals included redecoration, provision of a bar, counter, (no hard stuff!) and suitable fittings.