AAH (All About Horsham) August 2022 by AAH (All About Horsham)

AUGUST 2022

AUGUST 2022 CONTENTS

Department for Education pulls the plug on Wickhurst Green primary school and singer Hollie Rogers plans Capitol gig

My Story...

Business

Art

News Round-Up

Maurice Bacon from Loxwood was just a schoolboy when he hit the top of the charts with pop group Love Affair

John Kitchin set up Hugo & Green as a market stall. Now, the vibrant plant shop is proving a hit in Swan Walk

Eleanor Coate has been recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society for her stunning botanical photography

Education There’s growing demand for places at New Barn School in Broadbridge Heath, which caters for pupils with autism

Sport

Music

Derek Paxton has devoted over 45 years of his life to martial arts, coaching thousands at Horsham Judo Club

Horsham Battle of the Bands celebrates its 30th year with three competitions in Horsham Park’s Human Nature Garden

Health & Fitness

Community

Final Word

Amid a cycling boom, Simon Bedford has established Revolution Cycle Repairs at his Billingshurst home

The Tapestry Lunch Club provides fun and food for people with dementia and vital respite for their carers

A look at the life of George Butterworth, a composer inspired by local folk songs whose life was tragically cut short

COVER STORY

ABOUT THE MAGAZINE

The August 2022 cover features four boys from the primary class at New Barn School in Broadbridge Heath. AAH editor Ben interviewed Adam (far right) about the nine-year-old’s interest in editing Peppa Pig episodes for his own amusement. Afterwards, Ben left to speak to the Acting Head Teacher, while photographer Alan took some pictures of the boys climbing on the playground apparatus. He wanted a photo with the school (which is for children with autism) in the background and took this shot. It captures some of the fun of New Barn and the wonderful variety of its pupils. Other cover contenders included Simone Iaria, guitarist with Horsham Battle of the Bands winners Demure, John Kitchin at Hugo & Green in Swan Walk and botanical photographer Eleanor Coate.

AAH is an independent monthly magazine, owned by editor Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. It is distributed to doors and pick-up points around the Horsham District. EDITOR: Ben Morris editor@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 AAH, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT ADVERTISING: Ben Morris advertising@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 ADVERT RATES Eighth Page: £55 + VAT (93mm x 63mm) Quarter Page: £110 + VAT (93mm x 133mm) Half Page: £185 + VAT (190mm x 133mm) Full Page: £310 + VAT (A4 with 4mm bleed) Double Page: £520 + VAT SPECIAL OFFER: Every 6th advert is free of charge, like a coffee shop! We can also design adverts if you need help at no extra charge. PHOTOGRAPHY: Alan Wright alanwrightphotography.co.uk Email: alan.wright@alanwrightphotography.co.uk 07747 617387 Alan works for AAH on a freelance basis and is available for family portraits, as well as corporate and commercial work.

SUPERMARKETS In association with Self Select Distribution, AAH is available from free pick-up points at Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath and Sainsbury’s in Horsham. For other pick-up points, see right.

www.aahorsham.co.uk AAH is published online on the 1st of each month. Archive editions are online too. DISTRIBUTION The magazine is delivered to about 13,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages. DOOR-TO-DOOR TEAM Jacquie Paterson, the Judd family, the Voisey family, Katie Drysdale, Hazel Garner, Jill Shuker, the Arliss family, the Bloomfield family, Eve Lovett, Lara Green, the Gavira family, Harvey Dold, Alessandro Cavallo, Jack Nicholls, the McCormick family, Charlie Merchant, Harry Baker, the Walker family (all

Horsham) The Brown family and the Chapman family (Southwater), the Palmer family (BBH) the Murray family (Wickhurst Green) Luke Butcher (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris family (West Chiltington) PICK UP POINTS & AAH STANDS Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands at businesses, clubs and shops. Horsham: The Living Room (Swan Walk), Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric) Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), Slinfold Golf Club (Slinfold), Steyning Leisure Centre and Cobblestone Walk (Steyning), Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington), Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington), The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Meadow Stores and Cafe (Thakeham), Golden Plaice (Ashington) Supermarkets: Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath, Sainsbury’s in Horsham. LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH at a cost of only £40 + VAT per 1,000. For details, email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk AAH is printed with FSC® certified paper. This means it has been sourced from sustainably managed forests and other controlled sources, and its site of origin is proven and traceable under FSC certification.

LIFE’S A BEACH

West Wittering (©iStock/davidmartyn)

Notes from the Editor: A Chance to Unwind at West Wittering

We’re all set! We’re off to West Wittering! Had to book a week in advance, which was a faff. No room for spontaneity in the age of the parking app. I had to download it specially. Another one. An app I’m probably only ever going to need when I visit West Wittering and that I’ll have forgotten I even have by the time I next want to go there. Car parks love an app, don’t they? In the good old days, car parks ripped us off by not giving change. Now, they make us pay in advance, knowing some of us won’t turn up. Not me though. I’ll be there. I love West Wittering, see. When I was a teenager, I often went there with my then girlfriend, now wife. We’d park down the end of the field and walk her golden retrievers along to East Head. That’s where I proposed, when our first child was only a few months old. Placed a ring on top of a sand castle. All very humble. West Wittering. A special place. We always took our boys there when they were little. We’d play frisbee in the sea and have a barbecue, if we could light it before we ran out of matches. Sometimes, my father-in-law would sail around to meet us in his Laser. He seemed to tip over more than anyone else. We bought him a sticker for the bow that read, “If you can read this, I have capsized!” West Wittering. Good times. It’s my wife’s birthday. That’s why we’re going. We discussed our plan of action last night, as we know how important it is to get there early. You’ve always had to. Before it gets busy. Okay, it won’t be like it used to be, when

anyone could turn up. Not with the modern union of the app and the car park. And of course the signs on the road telling nonticket holders that it’s sold out, so don’t even bother trying. But still, we’ll need to be out the door by eight at the latest. We agreed.

Halfords opens at 10:04. We’re back on the road quickly with our replacement shelter, but it’s busy now. It takes 20 minutes just to get off the A27. Then we hit the beach queue. Can’t believe I’m sat in traffic at 10.30am, still two miles out. Not when I know what it gets like. I did this once before, years ago, and told myself I’d never be so dumb as to do it again. Now, here I am - 43 and making the same mistake.

Okay, we’re in the car. 8.30am. Not ideal. But the boys are teenagers now and dormant on Sunday mornings. Actually, one hasn’t stirred at all. He worked on Saturday and can barely summon the energy to grunt, let alone go to the beach. The wife’s flustered as she can’t find the beach shelter. It’s not under the bed. Or in the cupboard under the stairs. Or on top of the wardrobe. “Can you check the shed?” she says. I check the shed. Not there. “Did you check down the back of the tumble dryer?” “Yes, I checked down the back of the tumble dryer!” Like I checked down the back of the tumble dryer. How could it possibly be down the back of the tumble dryer? “Well we can’t go without it!” she says.

10.45. Exasperated, I slump against the window. This is all London’s fault. It used to be that Londoners didn’t know about places like West Wittering, but there’s no secrets these days. Not in the internet age. There was an article about beautiful beaches within two hours of London in Time Out. They all must of read it. All the Londoners, in cafés with gender-neutral toilets. Bloody Londoners! Coming to my beach! Now I know how the French feel when we buy up all their chateaus, or how the Scottish feel when we clog up Highland roads with motorhomes, or how the Spanish feel when we descend on their beautiful islands and eat chips.

8.45am. We’re on the move. We’re making reasonable time, but still, no beach shelter. We can’t sit on the beach all day on the hottest weekend of the year without any protection from the sun, she says. The only option is to buy another one from Halford’s in Chichester. “It’s on the way.” “But it’s Sunday!” I argue. “It doesn’t open until ten! We can’t sit there for half an hour! Not when you know what it gets like! It’s West Wittering!”

12pm. Still not there. We’ll be another half an hour just on the car park driveway. I know that, as I’ve done this before! I give up. I turn around and head home. Silence. My wife feels bad about the beach shelter. Halford’s cost us. She knows it. I don’t rub it in, although I did say you have to get there early. It’s West Wittering!” None of this was my fault. Not yet. But you already know, don’t you dear reader, where we found the beach shelter...

QUOTE AAH FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

NEWS ROUND-UP Announcements & Events from across the Horsham District Email submissions to editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Singer/songwriter Hollie Rogers, who launched her career by winning Horsham’s Battle Of The Bands in 2016, performs at the Capitol on Sunday 30 October, the final date of her national tour. Hollie’s latest album Criminal Heart features a track produced by Grammy-nominated James McMillan, and collaborations with Jamie Lawson and US guitar legend Robben Ford. In recent years, Hollie has played Glastonbury and performed on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour. She will be backed by Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. Tickets £19.50 from (01403) 750220 or thecapitolhorsham.com

Horsham tattoo artist Danny Fuller has published his memoirs, Marked for Life: Tattooing in the Golden Age. Danny is one of the best-known tattoo artists in the south, having founded the first professional tattoo academy and established studios in Horsham, Brighton and Horley. He is now helping his daughter, Scarlett, launch a new studio in Worthing. The book, published through Horsham-based The Author’s Pen, features illustrations from Danny’s collections. It is available in paperback (ISBN 978-1-8383436-2-0) with an eBook scheduled for 8 August.

demand. However, the announcement has caused dismay amongst some residents, already disappointed by the lack of community facilities at Wickhurst Green and now likely to see land allocated to the school being handed back to the developer. Horsham and Crawley Liberal Democrats have launched an online petition to save the school, calling the decision “an unacceptable loss both to families and taxpayers.” westsussex.gov.uk/news

Sword school (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2018)

there to be sufficient demand for places to justify the new school, despite land being allocated in 2011, with the Glynn Learning Foundation made the free school sponsor. The County Council added that “there is close to 10% surplus capacity across primary schools in Horsham.” It cites the recently expanded Shelley Primary School in Broadbridge Heath and the new primary school set to open at Bohunt Horsham in Mowbray (north Horsham) in September 2024 as schools that can meet local

Danny Fuller (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2020)

A new primary school proposed for Wickhurst Green in Broadbridge Heath will not be built. The Department for Education (DfE) has informed West Sussex County Council (WSCC) that it has withdrawn the planned 420-pupil school from its Free School Capital Programme, as “there will be sufficient places available at existing schools to meet future demand.” In a letter to WSCC, the DfE indicated that, following a review, it does not consider

The Loxwood Joust returns to Loxwood Meadow, Loxwood, RH14 0AL, on 6 – 7 and 13 -14 August. Witness full-contact jousting, daring displays of weaponry, archery and cannon fire, knight-on-knight combat, and experience the Living History Village. New for 2022 is the creation of Scribe School and Copper Bangle workshops, adding to popular activities such as the sword school and singing workshops with the Medieval Baebes. Experiences and banqueting places must be booked in advance. loxwoodjoust.co.uk

Sussex Green Living and Zero Hour present an open letter to Lord Redesdale

(©AAH/Toby Phillips 2014)

Brollyfest will be held at The Brolly Beer Field, Wisborough Green, RH14 0ES, on Saturday 13 August, 1 – 10pm. Promoted as “the best family friendly beer festival in West Sussex”, it includes live music, face painting, children’s entertainer Crazy Beanz, street food, local gin and of course beer from Brolly Brewing. Camping options available. Tickets £25 (children £5) from brollybrewing.co.uk

(©AAH/Alan Wright 2021)

The ABC Animal Sanctuary in Juggs Lane, West Chiltington, RH20 2JS, hosts a fun weekend on 3 – 4 September, 10am – 4.30pm both days. Meet rescued animals and enjoy the animal parade as well as live music, craft and food stalls and refreshments. Entry £5 (U14s free) and well behaved dogs on leads welcome. Free parking. abcanimalsanctuary.co.uk Sussex Green Living CEO Carrie Cort, her son Adam and the charity’s Youth Eco Forum leader Natasha Barnes joined members of the youth-led movement Zero Hour to present an open letter to the House of Lords, appealing for its members to progress the Climate and Ecology Bill. Zero Hour, a coalition of UK campaigners, scientists, academics and members of the public, met in Victoria Tower Gardens in Westminster on 14 July, in a week when record temperatures were recorded. The Climate and Ecology Bill was first presented by Caroline Lucas (Green MP,

Brighton Pavilion) as a Private Members Bill in September 2020. Its Second Reading in the House of Lords was due to take place on 15 July, before it was passed over to the House of Commons. Carrie said: “In August 2021, UN Secretary-General António Guterres presented a landmark report on climate change, which stated that it is a ‘code red’ for humanity. Only one year on, we’re experiencing record temperatures. We have reached a tipping point. Global warming will be irreversible if governments around the world don’t act now.” sussexgreenliving.co.uk

PARENT & CHILD PARENT & TODDLER CLASSES AVAILABLE

E E FRRIANL T SSO LE

Luxury private pool Pool Heated to 33.6° Swim England registered Award winning swim school Classes over seven days a week info@horshamswimschool.co.uk telephone: 07500 808898 www.horshamswimschool.co.uk

The Shipleybased Easteds Barn Art Group seeks new members. Led by inspirational professional artist Chris Forsey, the group meets on Thursday mornings (term time only) at 10am. This friendly group work mainly in acrylics and watercolour. For more information call 07780 805904 or email Jane at jehandley@sky.com

Association of Sussex Artists exhibition 2021 (©AAH/Alan Wright )

The Association of Sussex Artists (ASA) holds its annual exhibition at the Drill Hall, Denne Road, Horsham, on 19 – 27 August. New paintings, drawings and items of sculpture and pottery by 150 artists will be displayed, with prices ranging from around £30 to £3,000. Founded in 1928, the ASA attracts members working in a variety of media including oil, watercolour, gouache, pastel, pencil, charcoal and - in the 3D section - stone, wood, bronze, earthenware, pewter and porcelain, to name just a few. Sponsored by Brock Taylor, the exhibition is open 10.30am 5pm daily (closes 3.30pm on 27 August). Entry is free. associationofsussexartists.co.uk

TOOVEY’S

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir will be starting their new season on Tuesday 6 September. Rehearsals take place in the Barn, Causeway, Horsham at 8pm and this term the choir will be preparing Brahms’ Requiem and Song of Destiny for their autumn concert in November. New singers in all voices are welcome to join. For details, visit westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

A selection of fine gentlemen's wristwatches auctioned over the past year at Spring Gardens for a total of £46,000

Time to sell? Marc Ellis has added a splash of colour to Grebe Crescent, Horsham, by painting a mural of the Lake District on one of his fence panels. It depicts Cat Bells fell and Derwentwater, a favourite destination of Marc’s family. The art has been well received by passers-by and dogs walkers. Marc hopes the mural will soon provide a backdrop for a new planting of sunflowers.

The auction market for vintage watches is buoyant! If you are considering the sale of your watches, our experts will be pleased to provide valuations free of charge and without obligation at our Spring Gardens salerooms. Please ring to arrange an appointment.

Next sale of watches: Thurs 22nd September The leading antique and fine art auction house in West Sussex

SPRING GARDENS, A24 WASHINGTON, RH20 3BS 01903 891955 auctions@tooveys.com www.tooveys.com

Members of Mel’s Milers jogging club presented a cheque for £4,000 to UKbased charity Over the Wall on 8 July. The donation came from profits from the annual 10k race on 3 April and extra contributions by runners. Next year’s Mel’s Milers 10k is scheduled for Sunday 26 March 2023 with entries open in the New Year.

The bicentenary of the death of poet Percy Bysshe Shelley was commemorated with the opening of a new cycle path on the Warnham Park Estate on 9 July. After the path was opened, about 20 cyclists enjoyed a special ride in Shelley’s memory. Starting at Poets’ Corner in Horsham Park (which celebrates works including ‘Ode to the West Wind’) the cyclists covered some six miles along the Shelley Cycle Path, taking in the Causeway (where Shelley’s father owned a house), St Mary’s Church (which has a Shelley Tower), Arun House (where his grandfather lived) and Warnham Pond (near his birthplace at Field

Place), before ending at St Margaret’s Church, Warnham. The bicentenary was further marked by poetry readings at Warnham Local Nature Reserve on 8 July. The event, organised by Horsham District Council, was attended by Chairman Cllr Kate Rowbottom and Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture Cllr Roger Noel, who delivered a reading by the Millpond. Morag Warrack, Chair of Trafalgar Neighbourhood Council, recited Shelley’s ‘The Cloud’ and Simon Packham from the Shelley Memorial Project read ‘To A Skylark’.

Andrew Stewart from Ashington attempted to complete the Pan Celtic Ultra 2022 in just 10 days in July, to raise funds for St Barnabas House Hospice, who cared for his fatherin-law. The 1,618-mile route starts and ends in Wales, but mostly comprises Ireland’s wild coastline. Andrew said: “I’ve always loved cycling and as I approach 50, I wanted to push myself! I’ve never visited Ireland before or cycled this distance, so I’m looking forward to it.” To donate, visit justgiving.com/andrew-stewart53

Knowing you. We all need legal advice and support at times. Our services are available at competitive fixed prices, designed to give you easy access to specialist legal support when you need it most.

To find out more please contact: Gemma Spencer (Solicitor), or Sarah Kench (Solicitor), or Catalina Lowe (Solicitor) For all your business, tax and wealth needs Call: +44 (0)1403 253 282 Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com We adhere to the Covid-19 guidance by socially distance at meetings, conduct matters over telephone, email or virtually.

We can help you with: •Will writing •Setting up a trust •Probate and estate administration •Arranging lasting power of attorney

Andy Hepworth (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2016) Cobblestone Walk (©AAH/Toby Phillips)

The Steyning Food & Drink Festival will be held on 3 September – 1 October. Many shops and eateries will offer discounts during the four-week festival, as will stalls at The Farmers Market on 3 September and 1 October. Events include a 50th anniversary celebration at Model Bakery (3 Sept), Wiston wine and food pairing (21 Sept), St Barnabas coffee and cake morning at Ashurst Village Hall (9 Sept), Artisan Bakehouse workshops including bread making (14 Sept) and chocolate making (15 Sept), a beer festival at The Star (23 - 30 Sept), apple juicing with Steyning Community Orchard (24 Sept), a superheroes tea party at Cobblestone Tea House (16 Sept) and the Tottington Manor gala evening for festival charity St Barnabas (30 Sept). The Festival Guide (required for offers) can be picked up at the usual community venues or online at steyningdistrictfooddrinkfestival.co.uk

Steyning will also be taking part in the Heritage Open Days scheme, England’s largest festival of history and culture, on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September. A self-guided audio tour is being launched by the Friends of Steyning Parish Church to reveal the hidden secrets of the historic church. There’s no need to book, just turn up with a smartphone. The church will be open from 11am – 4pm on Saturday, 12 – 4pm on Sunday, with organ recitals by Brian Sawyer at 2pm on both days and talks by historian Sarah Leigh on Saturday at 12pm and Sunday at 2pm. Events are free, with donations welcome. Steyning Museum on Church Street will be launching new exhibitions on the town’s breweries and historic Charlton Street. Additionally, there’s a tour the rifle range on the South Downs on 18 September, 11am – 3pm. Book rifle range tour at: https://guestli.st/719733

The Ashington Festival will be held on Saturday 20 August. The carnival - led by Carnival Princess Angela Collins and her attendants and pageboys - starts at 1.30pm, travelling through the village and arriving at the Recreation Ground around 2pm. The best float competition has a £100 first prize, with entry open to groups outside the village. Highlights include a car boot sale, fun dog show, classic car show, funfair rides, food vans, licenced bar, Pimm’s tent and stalls selling cakes, crafts, plants and more. Arena acts include the Medina Marching Band, the dog and duck show, Dangerous Steve and his sensational stunts, and dance and gymnastics groups. Live music comes courtesy of old favourites Creative Covers and a Robbie Williams tribute act, before the traditional firework display at 10pm. ashingtonfestival.co.uk ©AAH/Alan Wright 2021

Andy Hepworth is stepping down from day-to-day operations to become Chairman of Hepworth & Company brewery in Adversane. Ed Wray, who has been assistant head brewer for three years, becomes head brewer. The announcement coincides with the brewery unveiling a major programme of investment, including the installation of a new 30,000 cans/per hour capacity canning line to enable Hepworth's to launch new beers for the craft can sector. They will also offer a canning service to other brewers. Andy Hepworth was the last head brewer at King & Barnes, which was sold in 2000. hepworthbrewery.co.uk Storrington Flower Club meets at Storrington & Sullington Parish Hall on the 4th Wednesday of each month (apart from August and December) at 2pm. The club welcomes demonstrators Nina Tucknott on 28 September and Stephen Donnell on 26 October. An Open Evening on Friday 4 November includes a demonstration by Chelsea Silver Gilt Winner Claire Bryant (tickets £15 from 01903 745670). New members and visitors are welcome. For general enquiries contact Chrissy Desmond on 01903 742102. Children, staff, and governors at Holbrook Primary School have bid farewell to their longest-serving governor. Andrew Baldwin, Local Authority Governor, is stepping down from the Board of Governors having been in the post since 1998. Andrew, also a District and West Sussex County Councillor, said: “Being a school governor has been a very rewarding experience and I would highly recommend it!” Holbrook Primary School is based in North Horsham with a two-form entry and 420 students.

Photo: Anna McCabe

A group of 45 fundraisers have finally completed a trek in the Moroccan Sahara in aid of St Catherine’s Hospice. Supporters of the hospice were initially scheduled to depart in March 2020, each with a minimum fundraising target of £2000. After three postponements, two groups comprising a total of 45 trekkers completed the five day adventure through beautiful desert landscapes. With the help of local guides, they scaled dunes, weathered sand storms and traded stories. Michaela Clements, Fundraising Manager at STCH, said: “As I trekked across the largest hot desert in the

world, I watched people push themselves out of their comfort zones to raise £180,000 for our hospice. The Sahara was stunning and it was a very special trip.” St Catherine’s Hospice’s Midnight Walk returns on Saturday 3 September, from 8pm. Women, men and children will take to the streets of Horsham and challenge themselves to a sponsored 20, 13, 7 or 2mile night-time walk to raise funds for the local hospice. Register online at: stch.org.uk/midnight-walk-2022

©AAH/Alan Wright 2021

Claims for the Government’s Welcome Back and Returning to the High Streets Safely funding programmes have been completed by Horsham District Council. The schemes were introduced in May 2020, enabling local councils to introduce measures to get customers back into retail spaces, upskill local businesses and kick-start economies after COVID. In total, over £200,000 of funds have been allocated to initiatives, including the development of an e-commerce platform for shops, improvements to pedestrian areas in Horsham and Steyning, and the support of a Pop-Up shop in West Street (pictured). The first results of the 2021 Census have been released by the Office for National Statistics, providing a glimpse of how Horsham District's population has changed over the past decade. The population has increased by 11.8% from around 131,300 in 2011 to 146,800 in 2021, higher than the overall increase for England (6.6%). Horsham District Council Leader Jonathan Chowen said: “Whilst these results show that Horsham is a great place to live , it also highlights that we are building more houses than the national average.” ons.gov.uk

43 14

Two pairs of kingfishers have nested at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre for the first time, giving visitors close-up views this summer. Visitors can watch kingfishers going in and out of their nest hole at the Sand Martin hide nesting bank. Kingfishers are also nesting in the Arun Riverlife Lagoon nest bank, easily seen from the Water’s Edge Café or from the Discovery hide opposite the bank. Both pairs of kingfishers have hatched out youngsters that have left the nest and are trying for second broods. Visitor Chris Penrice, whose hobbies are birdwatching and photography, said: “This is the closest I have ever been while photographing these beautiful birds and the first time I have ever seen a male and a female together!” wwt.org.uk/Arundel

Horsham Olympic FC and Holbrook FC have merged to become Holbrook Olympic FC. Bringing together players and staff from both clubs, Holbrook Olympic will field two teams in the 2022/23 West Sussex League. Home games will be played at the Holbrook Club as Horsham Olympic vacate Dutchells Copse, its home for 35 years. Roger Edwards, newly-appointed Chairman of Holbrook Olympic FC, said: “The facilities at the Holbrook Club are amazing, with floodlit training pitches, changing rooms, licensed bar and TV showing live football.” A new badge reflecting both clubs is being developed. New players are welcome. For enquiries, email mattig1967@gmail.com Horsham Football Club kick off the new Isthmian Premier Division season with a trip to newly-promoted Canvey Island on Saturday 13 August. Home matches in August follow on Tuesday 16 against Corinthian Casuals, Saturday 20 against Carshalton Athletic and Bank Holiday Monday 29 against Bognor Regis Town. The Hornets recently submitted a planning application for additional facilities including covered standing areas, additional turnstiles and a scoreboard, aimed at enhancing the match day experience at the Camping World Community Stadium. horshamfc.co.uk Independent prep school Windlesham House has officially become a National Football League (NFL) Hub for the South East region. That’s football as in American football. Not soccer. windlesham.com

Cottesmore’s showjumping team at Hickstead

Four pupils from Cottesmore School won the National Schools Jumping Championships at The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead on 8 July. Cottesmore’s showjumping team of Darcy (riding Caeroin Mor Lad), Daisy (Woodwards Winny), Orla (Little Caesar) and Mia (Cocklebury Buccaneer) triumphed in the competition, which was first held in 1960. After the first round, four teams on zero penalties went through to a “jump off” with the fastest team with the least penalties winning. Cottesmore were the only team to finish with zero penalties. Orla also took 3rd place in the individual final. cottesmoreschool.com

Traditional Values...

...Modern Approach

Quality Service 15

True Craftsmanship We are a family run business based in the heart of West Sussex just five miles from the busy town of Horsham. We are passionate about what we do & pride ourselves on customer care, attention to detail & the highest quality of craftsmanship. We offer upholstery services for both modern & traditional furniture with ‘made to order’ solid beech frame furniture now available from our showroom. Our online gallery has some examples of our work, which covers three piece suites, antique chairs, dining chairs, headboards & much more. We can give any piece of furniture a new lease of life using traditional methods and techniques. We have a wide range of fabrics to choose from & offer free fabric samples.

So for your free no obligation consultation call us today.

Unit 1B, Church Lane Est, Church Lane, Plummers Plain, Horsham, RH13 6LU

(01403) 891102 www.heritageupholstery.co.uk

Traditional Methods

Free Estimates

Annalees and Luna of Whistlestop Arts, creators of the Mystery Trails

There are now more pick-up points for the popular Horsham District Mystery Trails. The addition of a new pick-up partner for each of the seven, townbased Mystery Trails means that people can take part on Sundays too. Operating alongside the established “Trail Hubs” in the library windows of participating towns and villages, new locations for Trails are: Austen's Home Hardware (Billingshurst), Post House Café (Henfield), Everyman Cinema (Horsham) Pulborough Exchange, Co-Op (Lintot Square, Southwater), Cobblestone Tea House (Steyning) and Pricewatch Power (Old Mill Drive, Storrington). A special Summer Side Quest for children has also been launched for the school holidays. Pick up a trail pack from libraries or businesses listed above, or visit: whistlestoparts.org/mysterytrails

43 16

Our appropriately named on-site café and bar with its thoughtfully created Breakfast and Seasonal Menus offers a selection of hot and cold options for your indulgence. Many of our cakes and sweet treats are handmade on site. Locally sourced ingredients feature throughout our menus including local craft bakers’ breads and burgers from our very own beef herd. Not feeling hungry? From the bar we provide a generous choice of soft drinks, draught and bottled beers, premium spirits and a wide selection of wines all to be enjoyed overlooking our beautiful Sumners Lake. Find a comfortable spot outside on the upper or lower decking and take in the scenery or cosy up in our Safari Tent and enjoy the warmth and crackle of log-burning stoves. Current Opening times: Monday to Sunday 9am to 4pm Food Service: 9am to 3pm

Tel: 01403 732539 Web: sumnersponds.co.uk Instagram: @sumnersponds Facebook.com/SumnersPonds

Horsham District Indoor Bowls Club, next to The Bridge Leisure Centre in Broadbridge Heath, RH12 3LZ, hosts an Open Day on Saturday 17 September, 10am – 3pm. It is a chance for people of all ages to try indoor bowls, with the club offering long and short mat, Bowls4Fun and casual bowling on its eight rinks, as well as a host of social events. All ability levels are welcome and coaches will be on hand to help beginners. Food served with special membership offers available. For details, email admin@hdib.club Horsham District Indoor Bowls Members of the Probus Club of Horsham Weald appointed a new President at their AGM held at The Bridge Leisure Centre, Broadbridge Heath. Incoming President Richard Martin paid tribute to his predecessor Mike Collingbourne, who steered the club through two difficult, COVID-affected years. Derek Sturt was appointed Vice President. The club has a full programme of activities, outings and lunches arranged for the coming year. Regular activities include country walks, indoor bowls, golf, snooker and monthly meetings. Membership is open to retired (and semi-retired) business and professional persons who wish to join with likeminded active people in making the best of their increased leisure time. For information, contact Derek Fuller on (01403) 782828.

Maurice Bacon at Loxwood Meadow (@AAH/Alan Wright)

BACK BEAT

THE CHART-TOPPING DRUMMER NOW LOOKING TO THE PAST

Maurice Bacon was still a schoolboy when he shot to the top of the charts as drummer with the pop group, Love Affair. He now balances his commitments in music management with organising events on his own land in Loxwood, including a hugely popular mediaeval festival. Here, Maurice describes his journey so far…

My uncle Max Bacon was an entertainer and played drums for Ambrose and his Orchestra. My cousin Victor Feldman was also a successful jazz musician, recording with the likes of Benny Goodman and Miles Davis. He was a child prodigy and even from a young age was drumming at the 100 Club, which his family founded (initially as Feldman Swing Club). My father, Sidney, was also a drummer and met my mother while touring in Ireland. Music was always in the family and I grew up playing drums. My grandfather ran a successful company and when he passed away, my father (the youngest of three brothers) decided to stop playing drums to focus on the business. But he maintained a passion for music and formed a band for me in 1966, when I was only 14. He placed an advert in Melody Maker appealing for musicians, and hired John Cockell to help manage us. We initially called ourselves the Soul Survivors. Steve Ellis was a great vocalist and we also had a fantastic keyboard player, Morgan Fisher, who was later in Mott the Hoople. When I was 15, I played regularly at London clubs like The Speakeasy and The Marquee. I would get home at 2am and have to get up for school, where I’d often doze off or tap the table constantly to a

parents, so I wasn't exactly living the rock 'n' roll life. I wish I’d been a little bit older when I experienced this success, as I would have had much more fun. We enjoyed great success over a two year spell ‘(Rainbow Valley’, ‘A Day Without Love’ and ‘Bringing on Back the Good Times’ all reached the Top 10) and we starting playing 2,000 capacity venues. However, we grew increasingly frustrated by the sound quality, which is one of the reasons why The Beatles stopped touring. PA systems weren’t good enough and when you had a room full of screaming girls, you couldn’t hear yourself play. 43 19 Maurice (in red top) with Love Affair

drum beat! I was eight weeks away from being allowed to leave school, but my teacher said I could go early with the permission of my parents. As my father was my manager, that wasn’t a problem! The band changed its name to Love Affair and our first single, a cover of ‘She Smiled Sweetly’ by The Rolling Stones, was released by Decca in February 1967. It was produced by Mike Vernon, who later worked with Fleetwood Mac, but failed to break into the Top 40. After I left school, we became a professional band and hit the road. This was a time before discos and even village halls would regularly host live music from successful bands and orchestras. We were mostly playing covers and were big fans of The Small Faces (we were on the bill when they headlined an Aberfan charity concert at the Albert Hall) and loved to play songs like ‘Itchycoo Park’. We were still in the midst of

Beatlemania and girls would scream at you. I still meet people now who once had pictures of me on their bedroom wall! Once we were gigging regularly, we built momentum and nine months after our first single, we released a cover of ‘Everlasting Love’. I was 15 when it first charted and by the week of my 16th birthday, it was at number one. It was strange, as we were still playing tiny venues for £35 a night, because we’d been booked three months in advance. We could have sold out 10 times over! We went on Top of the Pops five times to play ‘Everlasting Love’, twice as it rose up the charts and then for three successive weeks at the top. The problem was that I was 16 and members of most other bands were in their early twenties. Even the other guys in Love Affair were a couple of years older than me. They were still young, but I was a child who still lived with his

by 1970, underground rock acts like Yes and King Crimson were emerging and the teenyboppers were fading away. I left Love Affair to join a prog rock band called Morgan, named after our keyboard player. We considered ourselves to be “proper” musicians, not teen idols, and were on a mission to prove it. We signed a deal with RCA but missed a trick by failing to make the songs commercial and sales were disappointing. There has been a prog rock revival and over the last decade we’ve sold more records than we did when they were first released, although it’s still a niche audience. Shortly after Morgan disbanded, my father passed away and it hit me hard. He was like a guru to me and I loved him dearly. I was only 21 but he’d been my guiding light and without him I wandered aimlessly for a few years. I then started playing drums for John Otway and later became his manager. I started learning about the business side of the industry: recording, publishing and booking venues.

Loxwood Joust

The Mediaeval Baebes

“We went on Top of the Pops five times to play ‘Everlasting Love’, twice as it rose up the charts and then for three successive weeks at Number 1.”

I was also involved in music video production. I met Derek Burbidge, a pioneer of promotional videos who worked with The Police and Queen. We became friends and I helped him produce a programme to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Marquee. This led to a long period producing videos of tours and concerts around the world with artists including Chaka Khan, Eurythmics and Jimmy Page. I also worked on TV shows including Swank and Scoff, both starring Dawn French.

By the 1990s, I was managing a French artist, Guesch Patti, (best known for her 1987 hit ‘Etienne’) and had a catalogue of music. I was heavily into management at this point but then I met Andrew Winters, an A&R rep, and formed an independent label, Ultimate Records. We were a successful label with bands like The Belltower and Senser, who sold 100,000 copies of their 1994 debut, Stacked Up. This helped us establish a sub-label called Planet Dog, which released electronic music by the likes of Banco de Gaia and Eat Static.

Unfortunately, Andrew became unwell and I moved back into management, which has included Kula Shaker for 14 years and the Mediaeval Baebes for 25 years. Towards the end of the 1990s, the Mediaeval Baebes were performing at renaissance festivals in America, where they create stunning Tudor villages. Some of these events were hugely popular, which made me think about doing something similar over here.

43 20

Transfer your favourite videos to DVD/Hard Drive to re-live all those memories ‘Lost in the Loft’ Home Movies Wedding Videos Special Occasions

All formats coverted: VHS Camcorder Tapes 8mm Cine Film

Direct Line: 01403 734 465 Web: www.lostintheloft.com

Judith Dandy Independent Funeral Director Dandelion Farewells warmly invites you to contact us if you have any questions about the funeral you need to arrange. We are committed to enabling families to plan a funeral that is personal, meaningful and affordable. We will support you to create a farewell that is appropriate and unique, thereby taking away much RI WKH VWUDLQ RI SODQQLQJ VXFK D VLJQLßFDQW HYHQW We will be with you every step of the way. Church View, Billingshurst Road Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0DY

e: judith@dandelionfarewells.com t: 01403 701001 m: 07769 336022

www.dandelionfarewells.com

Maurice Bacon at Loxwood Meadow

OUTDOOR SEATING AVAILABLE

I hired Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire. The idea was to stage battle re-enactments and jousting with mediaeval music. It turned out to be more popular than I imagined and over the first weekend, 7,000 people turned up. We continued to host it annually, attracting 24,000 people over two weekends at its peak. But then in 2007, there was extensive flooding in Gloucestershire which affected the site, so I made a decision to move and buy my own land. I bought Loxwood Meadow and woodland and remember lying in bed thinking, “What do I do now?” At Berkeley, the estate staff did everything and all we had to do was turn up and run the event. Now, I had a 30-acre site that needed managing and I had no idea what to do! But over the years, we’ve learned how to look after the land by grazing sheep in the winter and taking a crop of hay in the summer. We produce Loxwood Meadow Honey from beehives and together with Cabin Pressure Spirits (a Horshambased gin company) we use the sloes from the land to make Loxwood Meadow Sloe Gin. My son Danny has a mead company too, which produces Loxwood Meadow Mead. We’re a family business and it’s great working with him. The meadow is a magical place too and in the Enchanted Woodland, when the sun shines through the canopy, it’s amazing. The first Loxwood Joust was in 2012 and it has grown organically since, mainly by word of mouth. We have battle re-enactments, jousting and the Living History Village and we’ve added interactive activities including a blacksmith and a sword school.

There is also a fantastic banquet with its own entertainment and food by award-winning Garlic Wood chefs. In 2019, we started another event with Simon Bates from Loxwood Jazz Club called Jazz, Gin & Blues, which has been very successful. The event is a chilled Sunday in the woodland with music and gin. We also host other events including the Country Brocante Fair and in 2020 we put on drive-in movies. A few screenings included an introduction from a special guest with a connection to the film, with the lovely Julie Walters joining us for Mamma Mia. There was a time when I didn’t like talking about Love Affair. I wanted to be taken seriously as a manager or a record label boss, yet people always asked me about that period of my life. Now, I’m more chilled about it. I’m still in touch with other members of the band and recorded a track with bassist Mick Jackson recently. ‘Everlasting Love’ was featured in the movie Belfast and returned to the download chart 55 years after its release. I was 15 when it came out and if you’d told me then that I’d still be receiving royalties from it when I was 70, I’d have thought you were crazy!

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright/ Maurice Bacon

Renovated 16th Century Barn New House Farm Shop and Tea Room is located in a beautifully renovated 16th Century barn in a quiet spot on the rural outskirts of Horsham. People come from all over to enjoy our cafe and local produce.

Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms Enjoy cakes, sandwiches and Ploughman’s from our Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms, with outdoor seating available. Menu includes baps, sandwiches, toasties and cake, with full English Breakfast from 10am-12pm

Locally Sourced Food & Drink Our locally sourced produce includes fruit & veg, fresh bread, local meats (including Bangers Galore), local beers and gins, wines from Bolney Wine Estate and Leonardslee, Sussex cheeses, unique gifts, and much more!

Visit our Facebook page and website for latest info on opening dates & bookings

www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk Further information: The Loxwood Joust is held at Loxwood Meadow, RH14 0AL, on 6 – 7 and 13 -14 August. For tickets and information, visit loxwoodjoust.co.uk

(01293) 851890 New House Farm, Old Crawley Road, Horsham, RH12 4RU

Now open 7 days a week with outside seating

HAVE YOU GOT THE BUZZ YET? SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

FOR TICKETS VISIT: WWW.HORSHAMFC.CO.UK

Hugo & Green has many plants for smaller homes (©AAH/Alan Wright)

It also supports other local businesses, including RC Apparel (©AAH/Alan Wright)

we’ll see what happens. There are a number of independents in the shopping precinct now, which is great as they add vibrancy. Gobsmack Comics celebrate things like Star Wars Day (May 4th) that attracts many people, and we hope that with our events and plant workshops, we can complement them too.

we talk to customers and find plants to suit their own home. There are lots of options for people in small houses or apartments. The living walls are modular systems that you stack and fill with plants. The hydroponic watering systems are self-contained so there’s no mess, and they’re a sustainable, UK-made product too.

PLANTS.

CONTEMPORARY.

We try to offer specimens you wouldn’t find at big high street retailers and lean towards plants that are easy to maintain, as I don’t want people to feel intimidated about buying plants. Some of them need very little light and others thrive with lots of light, so

Our plant collection is unique and we love contemporary ideas. We sell kokedama, Japan’s answer to the hanging basket. It translates as “moss balls” as it’s the root balls of small plants wrapped in moss. Terrariums are a novel way to grow

plants with minimal care and make interesting centrepieces that are very on trend.

WORKSHOPS. We host regular workshops, usually making kokedama and terrariums, which help us to spread the word. We also work with The House of Knots, who make macramé plant holders (knotted textiles) which are ideal for kokedama plants. We’ve formed several partnerships with local independents and now sell candles by Kimmy B, T-shirts by RC Apparel, gifts and ornaments by Love Vintage and Cu Living and even wonderful “bum pots” by Suz Handmade Creations. 25

Wellcross Grange Nursing Home www.wellcrossgrangenursinghome.com

Family run home providing high quality nursing, residential and respite care for the elderly Accepting admissions on a risk assessed basis. Vaccine priority group

Wellcross Grange Nursing Home, Five Oaks Road, Horsham management@wellcrossgrangenursinghome.com * As at December 2020

Shaws Glass has been part of the business landscape in Horsham for over 20 years. Our family firm is the region’s independent choice for all things glass, including:

CONSERVATORIES

Brochures & examples of our stunning conservatories and orangeries online Shaws Glass is an official outlet and installer of Livin Room by Ultraframe

WINDOWS

FlushSash windows offer modern performance with weatherproof PVC-U, which will never need sanding or repainting.

DOORS

66 North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RD

At our Horsham showroom, you can view beautiful front and back doors, patio and French doors and concertina bi-fold doors

Tel: (01403) 211133 Email: mail@shawsglass.co.uk

www.shawsglass.co.uk

Southern Company of the Year 2018 Winners – The Master Window & Conservatory Installers Association

SLEEP BETTER THE REGION’S MOST TRUSTED BED RETAILER SINCE 1946

FLOORS OF BEDS

Expert advice from an independent family business

THE WIDEST CHOICE OF LUXURY BEDS IN THE SOUTH-EAST Central House, Medwin Walk, Horsham, W. Sussex RH12 1AG horshambeddingcentre.co.uk T. 01403 274222 FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD BED

| FREE DELIVERY | 0% FINANCE

FLORAL FOCUS

THE BOTANICAL PHOTOGRAPHY OF ELEANOR COATE

Eleanor Coate is renowned for her botanical images (©AAH/Alan Wright)

AAH meets Horsham-based photographer Eleanor Coate, whose beautiful botanical images have earned her an RHS Gold Medal and a Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society.

Where did your photographic journey begin? When I retired in 2005, one of the things I wanted to do was to learn photography. I took evening classes and borrowed books from the library to give me a grasp of the basics, but real progress came when I joined Horsham Photographic Society. It’s a fantastic group, as you meet people with a shared passion and hear from expert speakers about a wide range of photographic styles. Everything I’ve achieved since wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance and support of my Society friends. Why focus on botanical photography? Initially, I photographed landscapes, capturing natural scenes. I was particularly drawn to wildflowers and exhibited some of these pictures in 2016. Then I stumbled upon a book on botanical paintings. I’ve always admired the attention to detail in botanical drawings and how artists could represent a plant accurately enough for it to be used for scientific identification. I wondered if it was possible to emulate that style

through photography. A member of the Horsham Photography Society told me that the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) kept botanical prints from the 18th and 19th century at a London library. It's not the sort of place where you can walk in off the street, so I made an appointment and the staff were very helpful. Slowly, I gained an understanding of the conventions of botanical art. What kind of plants do you photograph? Initially, it was cultivated flowers bought from shops. During lockdown, I couldn’t get hold of any, so during my daily walk I would pick wildflowers in fields and hedgerows instead. I found many varieties, but wildflowers are difficult to photograph as the stems are not as strong as cultivated flowers. Also, you have to work harder to capture their beauty, perhaps by placing them with natural grasses but without sacrificing the botanical aspects of the work. As I explored the possibility of gaining distinctions from the Royal Photographic Society (RPS), I gave more consideration to what I was photographing.

Eleanor Coate (©AAH/Alan Wright)

How do RPS distinctions work? There are three levels. The first is Licentiate (LRPS), where applicants submit 10 images and demonstrate competent photographic skills. The next level is the Associate (ARPS), where you submit 15 images along with a statement of intent. As well as demonstrating a higher level of skill, it’s important to show consistency. After gaining these two distinctions, I told myself, “never again!” as each stage requires a big commitment. But I couldn’t help thinking about the highest distinction, the Fellowship (FRPS). For this, I would need to learn more advanced techniques and produce a set of 21 photographs that communicated a clear objective. It needed to be more than pretty pictures: they had to tell a story. What was your story? I was thinking about how wildflowers that were abundant in my childhood had become scarce due to urban development, farming practices, climate change and a host of other reasons. I realised how important it was to document these wildflowers while they still exist, but needed a way of categorising them. I decided to select three habitats: woodland, meadows and hedgerows. For each

one, I chose six wildflowers and wrote an accompanying piece about our vanishing flora. There was also a central composite image for each habitat. It was an intense process, as judges scrutinise your work and there’s an anxious moment while you wait for their verdict! Having received a Fellowship from the RPS, I feel honoured, as in the photographic world nothing is more prestigious . Another achievement I’m proud of is that in 2018, I entered six prints into the Portfolio category of the Royal Horticultural Society’s annual photographic competition and was awarded a Gold Medal. How do you capture plants on a plain background? All the elements are photographed separately, so I capture the flower, bulbs and leaves individually, giving thought as to the best angles. I used to place flowers in front of a white piece of card to create a plain background, but this could cause shadow. Now, I use the retina display of a tablet to give me a perfect background. Using Adobe Photoshop, I move each photo around to create compositions. Sometimes, I use a pebble grey background to emulate original botanical drawings, which 31

were often drawn on vellum. People assume I have expensive cameras and studio lights, but I use a Canon EOS 7D with a macro lens, set up on an easel in my spare room! How come some of your photos look like watercolours? Lots of people say that. However, whilst I adjust exposure levels, there’s no digital manipulation in terms of added filters or colours. Although I stick to many conventions or botanical art, not all my components are to scale. Some botanical artists are precise when it comes to size, but others have more of a free-flowing styling and I like that flexibility. You’re a member of a botanical art group... During the Horsham Year of Culture 2019, Jeremy Knight (formerly manager at Horsham Museum) invited me to contribute to an exhibition of botanical art at the museum’s art gallery. As a legacy, he founded the Horsham Society of Botanical Artists, which is still going strong and we recently held an exhibition at Parham House. I’m the only photographer, but I find the work of others in the group fascinating as the detail is exquisite. My work isn’t really comparable, but I think I contribute something different. I’m proud to be part of the society and the ladies are very supportive of what I do, coming along to support my recent solo exhibition at the museum.

Blue Passion Flower (©Eleanor Coate)

What are you planning next? I spent my career in education and was Deputy Head at Millais before becoming a Head Teacher in Carshalton for 17 years, although I never moved from Horsham. I would love for my prints to be part of an educational experience at somewhere like Warnham Local Nature Reserve. In terms of future photographic projects, I’m drawn to carnivorous plants. They would certainly make a fascinating subject!

Wisteria sinensis (©Eleanor Coate)

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information eleanorcoate.com For more on Horsham Photographic Society, visit the website at horshamphotographicsociety.co.uk

If you’re looking to power a better tomorrow, we can help. Just ask.

100%

OF ST. JAMES’S PLACE FUND MANAGERS ARE SIGNATORIES OF THE PRI

0$77+(: :<.(6 &KR2(5 3ULQFLSDO

0$77+(: :<.(6 ),1$1&,$/ 6(59,&(6

$VVRFLDWH 3DUWQHU 3UDFWLFH RI 6W -DPHV̸V 3ODFH :HDOWK 0DQDJHPHQW _ PDWWKHZ Z\NHV#VMSS FR XN ZZZ PDWWKHZZ\NHV FR XN

6JG 2CTVPGT 2TCEVKEG KU CP #RRQKPVGF 4GRTGUGPVCVKXG QH CPF TGRTGUGPVU QPN[ 5V ,COGU U 2NCEG 9GCNVJ /CPCIGOGPV RNE YJKEJ KU CWVJQTKUGF CPF TGIWNCVGF D[ VJG (KPCPEKCN %QPFWEV #WVJQTKV[ HQT VJG RWTRQUG QH CFXKUKPI UQNGN[ QP VJG ITQWR U YGCNVJ OCPCIGOGPV RTQFWEVU CPF UGTXKEGU OQTG FGVCKNU QH YJKEJ CTG UGV QWV QP VJG ITQWR U YGDUKVG YYY ULR EQ WM RTQFWEVU 6JG 5V ,COGU U 2NCEG 2CTVPGTUJKR CPF VJG VKVNGU 2CTVPGT CPF 2CTVPGT 2TCEVKEG CTG OCTMGVKPI VGTOU WUGF VQ FGUETKDG 5V ,COGU U 2NCEG TGRTGUGPVCVKXGU

SJP12100b V2 (09/21)

FAMILY FEEL

A DIFFERENT KIND OF EDUCATION AT NEW BARN SCHOOL

Gracie, 15, enjoys singing at New Barn School, Broadbridge Heath (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“When I first came here, I loved it straight away as everything was so chilled. I couldn’t believe I could call teachers by their first name! Everyone knows everyone, so it feels like a family.” It’s fair to say that New Barn School has transformed 15-year-old Gracie’s education. She previously attended a local mainstream school but felt they didn’t support or understand her autism. After three years at New Barn, Gracie doesn’t even want to break up for summer! Music and art are two of her favourite subjects, although with classes usually limited to five pupils, Gracie has progressed not just in creative subjects but core academic lessons too. As she prepared for the school’s summer concert, where she was due to perform songs by Paloma Faith and Oasis, Gracie told AAH how the flexible approach to the day suits her. “The teachers don’t mind if you need a break,” she said. “Sometimes I go to the music room and sit in on a lesson there. I had a bad experience at my last school, but I love it here and don’t even want the holidays to come as I’ve made some really good friends here, which I’ve never had before.”

OH, THE HUMANITIES! Tucked away in a rural location on Guildford Road, Broadbridge Heath, New Barn is a purpose-built school for children and young people on the autism spectrum. Currently, it caters for pupils aged 7 - 19, with both primary and secondary provision. As well as the core subjects of English, mathematics and science, it offers art, music, PE and PSHCE. As pupil numbers have grown, so has the curriculum, with humanities (history and geography) added in recent years.

Pupils enjoy a science lesson at New Barn School (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Developing vocational skills is important too. Pupils are taught computing in a modern ICT suite and develop their culinary skills in a food technology room, with cooking and nutrition lessons a favourite of many. Indeed, AAH was treated to a delicious pasta bake lunch, served by Leo, one of the pupils. Learning Teaching Assistants (LSAs) play a key role, as do the therapy team. Geoff Draper (Managing Director and Acting Head Teacher) recalls a popular quote that reflects the diverse nature of the pupils: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism.” With autism being such a broad term, pupils are assessed individually and given Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Additional learning needs are addressed accordingly, with occupational, art, music, language and speak therapists providing specialist support. Statistics suggest the school makes a difference to the lives of its pupils, says Geoff. “Many who join us were previously at a school with 1000 or more pupils and they weren’t suited to it. Because we have only four or five pupils in each class, we can give them the individual attention they need. One of the

Spacious classrooms at New Barn School (©AAH/Alan Wright)

things I’m most proud of is our attendance rate. Sometimes, pupils have missed a term or even a full year of school by the time they find us, yet within a matter of weeks their attendance rate is over 90%. However, with every new pupil, we have to make sure that we are the right school for them and they’re right for us too.” “Just walking around the school, you can sense it’s a calm environment. That's not to say we don’t have episodes – of course we do - but we expect a certain level of behaviour. The feedback we received from parents is overwhelmingly positive because of the difference the school has made to their lives and that of the children.”

Many pupils enjoy cooking & nutrition (©AAH/Alan Wright)

NURTURING NATURE Key to the calming environment is flexibility, with staff adapting the curriculum to engage the pupils from primary age up to A’ level. Phil Brunton, who has previously worked at both secondary and primary schools, teaches the Nurture class. He has created a primary-based curriculum for pupils of secondary age, helping them consolidate their ability in core subjects while also improving their communication skills. One ongoing project is for the pupils to write and talk about interesting places they visit, including Horsham Park. It is this will to adapt that makes working at the school challenging yet rewarding, says Quintus Dawson, Lead Maths Teacher .

“At mainstream schools, every lesson is planned so that teachers work through the National Curriculum. We do that too, but need to think outside the box to help pupils reach their goals. It’s also important to read the room to gauge when they need a break. Cohesion is important too. Sometimes, adding just one person to a class can disrupt the dynamic as people with autism do need a degree of consistency and familiarity.”

SONIC BOOM It is surprising – yet refreshing – for us to be given a tour of the school by several pupils, who express genuine love for New Barn.

DRIVE YOUR GAME

to the next level, and get i nto golf with our new ACADEMY MEMBERSHIP Experience our newly renovated driving range, designed with you in mind.

NEW TO THE GAME OR A LITTLE OUT OF PRACTICE? • Get trained by the professionals • Discover the joy of top-quality golf in Horsham with our new Academy Membership WHAT OUR MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES: • Test yourself against the tour pros on our unique driving range using our practice session score card • Unlimited range balls

£195 T’s & C’s may apply

• Unrestricted access to all of our facilities • 10% discount on all of our offerings including green fees on both courses • Free weekly coaching activities • Access to our PGA coaches & ex European tour professional • 15 dedicated bays all on Huxley turf

Join the ACADEMY MEMBERSHIP îŠē ƭŠŕūČŒ ǋūƭƑ ĳūŕǶŠĳ ƎūƥĚŠƥĿîŕ

“Just walking around the school, you can sense it’s a calm environment.” Geoff Draper, MD James, 13, is often accompanied by two cuddly friends, Sonic the Hedgehog and Knuckles the Echidna. He is making good progress in the Nurture class and likes the relaxed atmosphere. He says that calling teachers by their first name, instead of “sir” or “ma’am” makes it more friendly. James is a keen baker and is hoping to find a Sonic-shaped cookie cutter! Eloise, 14, loves English and is writing her own adventure thriller, The Starfall Initiative. She said: “The teachers always try to nurture our interests and encourage us. They have been really helpful with my book too. It’s really nice, as we feel like our opinions count for something.” Adam, nine, loves the freedom the school offers, although probably not quite as much as he loves editing episodes of Peppa Pig so that characters say crazy things, almost certainly not as much as he loves YouTuber Gravycatman and definitely not as much as he loves the snack shack. Adam said: “Every Friday at break, we have the snack shack, where you can trade in all your points for some yummy snacks!” James with Sonic and Knuckles (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Many pupils enjoy baking (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Visit Our New Showroom in Horsham

Horsham Plumbing and Heating Supplies Ltd is an independent, family-run business. We have provided quality plumbing and heating materials to traders and individual customers since 1988.

WE MAKE YOUR PROPERTY SHINE

Catering for all your plumbing needs

Window cleaning services Gutter/downpipe cleaning & clearing Jet washing Gutter repairs & installs Fascia & Soffit/UPVC cleaning Roof moss removal Residential & Commercial properties

(01403) 241184

For a free quote, call/text 07736 237027 or email chris_peake@hotmail.co.uk

Heating supplies (radiators, copper tubes, insulation etc) Modern, energy-efficient combi boilers Plumbing materials (heating pumps, cylinders, sundries etc) Beautiful bathrooms, toilets, kitchens and bedroom units

sales@horshamplumbing.com | www.horshamplumbing.com Unit 5, Parsonage Business Park, Horsham, RH12 4AL

Eloise loves English lessons and is writing an adventure novel (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Dale Jannels Director impactsf Ltd

(01403) 272625

www.impactsf.co.uk

Primary school classes at New Barn School (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Low credit score? There are options... Understanding the world of mortgages can be difficult at the best of times. If you have had bad credit or have a low credit score, it’s important to remember that contrary to what you might have heard already, you can still apply for a mortgage. There’s no ‘blacklist’ or minimum score that you need to have in order to successfully apply for a mortgage – this is unique to each lender and there are other factors that they will consider in your mortgage application. In fact, there are specialist lenders out there who purely provide mortgages for people who have had credit issues and some who don’t credit score at all.

Outdoor activities are important to the pupils (©AAH/Alan Wright)

All pupils benefit from the spacious grounds. Although it is a 50-acre site, it is largely undeveloped and will likely remain so, as the tranquil surroundings help instil a sense of security and wellbeing. It also provides pupils with the space for Forest School activities such as den building and cooking around a campfire, while there’s a small allotment for growing vegetables. There’s a World War Two bunker nearby too and groups can walk along the River Adur, enjoying unspoiled countryside views across fields to Christ’s Hospital.

Kevin Newman, Head of Humanities, said: “We do let the pupils have some quiet time, as it’s hard work being a teenager. We were all there once and they need a bit of down time. So, pupils spend a lot of time in PE, the games court and the wooded areas. We’re looking to expand our range of activities and excursions. We recently had our first residential and a group of pupils have completed their Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition. The geography teacher is planning to take a group to Rock Quarry and I hope to lead a history trip to Tangmere Aviation Museum. It’s important to give pupils something to look forward to.”

Credit history is exactly that – history. If you work on your financial situation, your credit rating will improve. There are various steps you can take to fix your bad credit rating, from as simple as getting on the electoral register to closing unused credit cards.

“There are various steps you can take to fix your bad credit rating.”

If you are concerned that you are financially linked to a partner with bad or adverse credit, the good news is that there are lenders who will still consider your application whether you’re buying a house on your own or looking for a joint mortgage. Mortgage brokers work with a diverse panel of lenders offering solutions tailored for many different scenarios, incomes and credit histories. However, just remember that each application you make will leave an imprint on your credit report, which is also visible to other lenders you approach. And if you make several applications in a short period of time, it may come across that you’re desperate for credit. Ensure you do your homework and speak to a professional in order to get your application right first time. And keep on top of your credit report. After all, this is the first thing many financial institutions will look at when deciding to lend to you, or not! There are three main credit scoring agencies in the UK: Equifax, Experian, TransUnion. They may charge you to access their services, although it’s possible to get a free 30day trial or to access your credit file for free through other online providers. Get to know what a lender sees and ensure your credit report portrays you as it should.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Winding down with paper planes in art (©AAH/Alan Wright)

NEW CHAPTER New Barn School was founded in 2017 with only a handful of pupils and since then, it has grown to its current peak of 79. Most are day pupils from West Sussex and Surrey, although some travel from further afield, with the school having a residential facility nearby, run in partnership with Treehouse Educare. In future, it may also be available to pupils at other schools offering specialist provision in the local area. Pupil numbers are expected to grow in the coming years, but to help maintain its current ambience, the primary school is likely to move to a new site from September 2023, which the Acting Head believes will be beneficial to all. Geoff Draper said: “We don’t want the site to be saturated with buildings and there is potentially a site in Surrey where a specialist primary school can be built. We would then be able to expand to about 120 pupils, although no more than that, as we want to keep our outdoor educational activities. We’re keen to develop an eco-culture and ethos throughout the school that children can take with them into adulthood.” “By then, a new Head Teacher will be in place, but I will still be here in my role as Managing Director. However, I must say that stepping in to fulfil the role on a temporary basis has been a privilege.”

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: For more on New Barn School visit: newbarnschool.co.uk Geoff Draper, Managing Director of New Barn School (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Home Decorating

No Job Too Small!

All aspects of tree surgery, hedge cutting & garden maintenance covered. Call for your FREE quotation. Ed: 07812995475 |Carl: 07754337926 Email: thetreemensussex@gmail.com

Experienced local decorator Friendly, professional manner Interior & low-level exterior projects Competitive pricing Painting & Wallpapering Help choosing the perfect colour scheme for your home Please contact Tony on 01403 754089 or 07526 658688

FREE quotation Fully insured Excellent references

MARTIAL LAW

DEREK PAXTON: A LIFETIME DEVOTED TO JUDO IN HORSHAM

43 The junior class at Horsham Judo Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

PROMISING START

In 1963, I entered my first competition and steadily improved, winning my first county medal when I was 12. In 1966, I won gold at the Sussex Championships, silver in the regionals and bronze at the nationals. That led to my selection for the U21 Olympic Squad, the feeder group for the Senior squad. I was awarded my black belt 1st Dan aged 21 and had hopes of reaching the top, but that ended with my accident.

Initially, we were called Horsham Park Judo Club and met at The Park Recreation Centre (now The Rec). My dad coached the U8s and I led junior and senior classes. Initially, The Rec had one large hall, which was perfect, but when they added the mezzanine floor and created the bowling alley, we had to find a new home.

I first went to a judo class when I was nine. My dad, Len, coached at Crawley Judo Club, which met in the huts at Tilgate Forest. In terms of martial arts, there wasn’t much choice for young people at that time and even judo was assumed by many to be dangerous. It wasn’t until Tokyo 1964 that it was seen at the Olympics, initially only as a demonstration sport.

I worked for a company that manufactured stainless steel tanks. My glove snagged as I fed a steel sheet into a cylinder and I lost two and a half fingers when my hand was dragged into the machine. After that, I couldn’t compete nationally, but I didn’t want to quit judo. I just focused on coaching instead and founded a club in Horsham.

We spent almost a decade at Horsham Youth Club on Hurst Road before moving to Southwater Leisure Centre. Before COVID, the Parish Council decided to close the gym and under new management the hiring fees were more than we can afford. So, we moved to Roffey Millennium Hall and are now attracting new youngsters from the surrounding areas.

Instructor Paul Howard (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Derek coaches children from a young age (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Derek Paxton has devoted his life to judo as a coach, competitor and referee. A work accident left him unable to reach the highest levels of the sport, but he has coached hundreds of people of all ages since establishing Horsham Judo Club in 1976. Here, Derek tells his story…

ROFFEY MOVE

Roly poly time (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Derek Paxton (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“Young people today have more choice when it comes to sports and hobbies, and that’s if you can get them off the computer!”

The fact that the hall served as a Vaccination Centre is a reminder of the difficult times all clubs and organisations have been through during the past two years. Because of the physicality involved, it was some time before judo clubs could restart and a few juniors decided not to re-join. Since moving to Roffey, it is the U-8 section that has boomed and we often have a dozen youngsters in the class. Some will soon be ready to move up and re-energise the junior section. The seniors section is in good health too and we’ve seen some new faces. We’re very inclusive and proud to have members with Cerebral Palsy and Visual Impairment at the club.

Horsham Judo Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

SOUTHERN COUNTIES

HOME IMPROVEMENTS 45

WHO’D BE A REF? As well as being a coach, my dad was a referee. He would officiate at competitions where I was taking part and was always harder on me than anyone else. He made me work that bit harder! Following in his footsteps, I qualified as a referee while also gaining my coaching credentials. My dad reached a national level as a referee and I went one better, reaching a European B standard and officiating the final of the 1990 European Team Championships. I also served on the Sussex Committee for 25 years from 1976, holding many positions until finally retiring as Chairman.

Southern Counties Home Improvements have built an impeccable name for ourselves for over 15 years We have had thousands of satisfied customers in Horsham and surrounding areas. We undertake all aspects of roofing and our work is guaranteed. We are fully insured and offer FREE quotations. References available.

CLUB SUCCESS There are 22 judo associations in this country alone and the British Judo Association (BJA) is the largest and the one that’s recognised by the International Judo Federation. Only members from the BJA can represent Great Britain at the Olympics. We are proud members of the association. We follow the BJA grading system, from white belt to brown, with grades based on technique and understanding. After gaining a brown belt, an individual can choose either competitive or non-competitive routes to become a black belt 1st Dan.

Re-Roofing & Repairs

Alterations & Conversions

EPDM Rubber Flat Roofs

uPVC Roof Line Installation (Fascia, Soffits, Gutters etc) Chimney Maintenance Dormer & Velux Windows

Fascia, Soffits & Gutters

(01403) 800232 07825 180303 Velux Windows

schiroofing@hotmail.com

Chimney Maintenance

www.horsham-roofing.co.uk

Horsham Judo Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

You can compete against others (opponents are evenly matched) and earn points based on results. Victory by ippon gets you ten points and 100 points earns you the belt, if you also pass a theory test. Then you can work towards the next Dan grade. There’s also a technical route to earn a black belt, which requires knowledge and understanding of the history of judo as well as technique. I am a black belt 5th Dan and many other black belts have come through the club, with several competing at a national level.

Juniors at Horsham Judo Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Horsham Judo Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

YOUTH OF TODAY During the club’s heyday, we had 30 children at each session. However, young people today have more choice when it comes to sports and hobbies, and that’s if you can get them off the computer! Other forms of martial arts have grown in popularity too, so we don’t attract the numbers we once did. However, judo remains a great sport for confidence. You learn to control yourself and that gives you confidence on the mat and in other aspects of life. There’s a learning curve that goes beyond just technique.

I’m 68 now and like the idea of eventually passing the club on to someone. However, I’m happy to keep going for now. During COVID, I had problems with my knees and shoulders because I wasn't exercising as regularly. But I never considered stopping, as I've put in too many years to give it all up that easily. Further information: Horsham Judo Club meets on Tuesdays: Under 8s: 5.30 – 6.30pm Juniors (8 – 14): 6.30 - 7.30pm Seniors: (14+): 7.30 – 8.30pm horshamjudoclub.com derekdoingdiy@btinternet.com

Authorised Dealership

SUSSEX’S LEADING ROOFING CONTRACTORS

Trademark Home Improvements is a local, trusted roofing installation and repair company. Our team of roofers are fully qualified and insured in all aspects of domestic, commercial and industrial roofing. Free No-Obligation Surveys & Quotes All work guaranteed Flat Roofing Tile Roofers Slate Roofing Rubber Roofing Felt Roofing Fibreglass Roofing Roof Repairs Fascias & Soffit Installation Gutter Repairs & Installers Chimney Repairs & Leadwork

01403 541417 email: info@trademarkhomeimprovementsltd.co.uk

trademarkhomeimprovementsltd.co.uk

Brighton Road Lower Beeding RH13 6NQ

Proud sponsors of Southwater Royals FC

MS-180 We are an official dealership for Stihl, Viking and Honda. We stock a wide range of chain saws, strimmers, blowers, vacuum collectors and hand tools. For the perfect lawn then look no further than our huge range of Honda and Viking mowers for every garden size.

01403 891580

www.ats-machinery.co.uk

Hillier Garden Centre, Brighton Road, Horsham, RH13 6QA

Call: (01403) 259755 Email: home@poolboy.co.uk www.poolboy.co.uk

Trading for 40 years at Hillier Garden Centre, Horsham

HOT TUBS

We are proud to be official dealers for Garden Leisure, one of the USA's leading and most-established brands of high quality hydromassage hot tubs. Discover relaxation with our full range of energy efficient Hot Tubs. At our Horsham showcentre, we have ten of the latest models on display from Garden Leisure and other leading brands including Weekend and Cove Spas. As well as seeing the Hot Tubs in person, you can discuss your own needs and requirements with our experienced team at a Which? Trusted Trader.

£500 DISCOUNT!

POOLS

Home Counties supply and install the outstanding and original Endless Pools range of exercise pools. Experience your own precision-engineered 'Original Endless Pool' where you swim or exercise against a smooth current that's fully adjustable, with 50 speeds to suit every ability. We have an indoor heated Endless Pool at our showcentre ready and waiting for you to put through its paces. Simply call us to arrange your test swim. With hundreds of installations throughout the South East over 40 years, Home Counties offer top class products and a pleasurable buying experience.

Quote AAH Magazine for a £500 discount/contribution towards your energy costs at Home Counties Pools & Hot Tubs, Horsham (Terms & Conditions apply)

LOUD & PROUD BATTLE OF THE BANDS CELEBRATES ITS 30TH YEAR

Rebecca, Curious People

Josh, Demure

What’s this then? Horsham Battle of the Bands (BOTB), held in Horsham Park’s Human Nature Garden over the weekend of 23 – 24 July. This year’s competition had added significance as it was the 30th anniversary of BOTB. What happens at Battle of the Bands? The weekend is split into three events: a covers section, with acts performing songs by established bands or singers; then it’s the turn of original bands playing their own material; finally there’s an acoustic competition for solo singer/songwriters. Is one more popular than the others? Depends on the times. BOTB organiser Jamie ‘Stan’ Stanley said: “For the last decade or so, the acoustic section has been strong, which reflects the mainstream music scene and the success of artists like Ed Sheeran. The original bands section has been through a rough patch but is now coming back. More young people are forming bands and going to gigs, so I think we’ll see a resurgence.”

Molly, Space Fishermen

Is it a competition for young people? BOTB attracts musicians of all ages. The original bands section included Absolute Loves, comprising more seasoned musicians. Their set (each act plays for about 20 minutes) ended with arguably their best track, ‘Overdrive’. On the other end of the experience scale, Curious People were performing live for the very first time. Rebecca (vocals/guitar), Will (guitar), Joe (bass) and Ralf (drums) became friends at Collyer’s College and only formed the band last year. They are rehearsing regularly at QM Studios in Horsham and plan to release an EP of their catchy indie-pop songs. Can acts enter more than one competition? Yes. Curious People singer Rebecca has previously entered the acoustic section and this year some of those watching on Saturday were delighted to see promising talent Molly McKenna return on Sunday. Molly fronted Space Fishermen, who finished runners-up in the original bands competition on Saturday, before taking to the stage with just a ukulele for an acoustic set, where she was awarded

Stephen, Absolute Loves

joint third place with Zoe Zori. Former Weald pupil Molly met band mates Reef and Harry at The Academy of Contemporary Music (ACM) in Guildford and they too hope to record an EP, featuring songs like ‘Bravo’, a modern twist on reggae rock. But they didn’t win? Space Fishermen came second with Common Buzzards in third. The deserving winners were Demure, formed by university friends in Brighton in 2019. The band’s early progress was hampered by the pandemic, but they’re now gigging regularly and impressing audiences with powerful vocals, fine musicianship and great tunes such as ‘Bedroom Sickness’. Vocalist Josh said: “Our guitarist Simone found out about Horsham BOTB and decided to enter. It’s been nice playing to a family crowd as we get a good response from an older audience, as they can hear the influence of classic bands like Free and Rage Against the Machine. We hope to record in the studio soon and we’re booking gigs across the south, so we’ll keep at it and see what happens.”

What about the other competitions? The acoustic competition was won by 3times7 with MCM the runner-up. As with the original bands competition, the winner received a single recording package courtesy of Ignite AMR, a professional photo shoot with Chezzimm Photography and a single release on digital platforms via Artists Without a Label (AWAL). The covers contest was won by Timeless, who performed songs by the likes of Muse and Nothing But Thieves. Evading Solaris were runners-up with Sugar Honey third.

Diene Mutter, 2021 BOTB covers winners, perform jaunty sing-alongs by Rammstein (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The event has a family-friendly feel (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Common Buzzards (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Will, Curious People

Reef, Space Fishermen

So, how did BOTB begin? The competition was established by the Horsham District Live Music Alliance (HDLMA), with support from Trevor Beadle of Horsham District Council. The HDLMA established two events - Rock in the Bandstand in summer and the Battle of the Bands in autumn. The first winners of BOTB was Decadent Dance in 1993 and for ten years the event’s popularity grew rapidly, with the late Graham Ansell helping take it to new heights. Mark Daly also joined the HDLMA and recalls its heyday. “BOTB was held at Broadbridge Heath Sports Centre but became such a big event that it had to move to The Drill Hall. The 1990s was dominated by boys and girls with guitars and the live music scene was so vibrant that we’d see 500 people turning up just for the heats. One year, we needed six heats with only the winning band from each going through to the final. Every teenager in town seemed to be in a band!”

‘It’s been nice playing to a family crowd as we find we get a good response from an older audience.” Josh, Demure

What happened? Ultimately, indie and rock music dwindled in popularity. Having been little more than an afterthought in the early years, the acoustic competition was suddenly attracting more entries as singer/ songwriters dominated the pop charts. The lack of interest in guitar bands almost brought about the end of BOTB, but it was picked up by a new generation of local musicians and music lovers, including Bex Thompson and Jamie Stanley.

And they saved it? They did indeed. Stan recalls: “In 2013, the HDLMA were thinking about scrapping BOTB due to a lack of interest. There simply weren’t enough bands. A group of us wanted to keep it going, so we formed a new sub-committee to focus solely on Battle of the Bands. I stepped in to replace Mark Daly as compere and have been doing it ever since. The following year, we revamped the format, moving it to the Human Nature Garden to create a family-friendly atmosphere and making it a summer event.”

CALL US FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS

(01403) 271746

info@directsecuritypartnership.co.uk

PROVIDING COMPLETE SECURITY SOLUTIONS

Has it ever missed a year? Remarkably, it has run for 30 consecutive years, having been held with social distancing at The Rec Rooms in 2020 (when Artica were the competition’s youngest ever winners) before returning to the garden last year. However, it relies on the support of the Council and local sponsors, most notably Woodstock IT. Horsham Garden Music Festival was cancelled this year due to a funding shortfall, highlighting the importance of sponsors for District events.

Mark Daly, head judge of BOTB

HORSHAM-BASED SPECIALISTS IN: INTRUDER ALARM SYSTEMS DOOR ENTRY SYSTEMS CCTV SYSTEMS ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS GATE AUTOMATION, GRILLES & SHUTTERS CENTRAL STATION MONITORING

www.directsecuritypartnership.co.uk 18 Blatchford Close Horsham RH13 5RG

Looking back over the years, who have been stand-out acts? Local favourites Blue Stragglers and Everafta are former winners, while Catfish have gone on to pick up multiple blues awards. It is hoped that 2016 acoustic winner Hollie Rogers will be the next to make a breakthrough. Stan said: “Holly now has the support of a professional backing band and is fast selling out her gig at the Capitol. She has played at big festivals and gone down a storm, so we’re hopeful she can make a breakthrough and we wish her every success.” And what of the future? While he has stepped back from organising the event, Mark Daly has cause for optimism. “The competition has had its ups and downs, but we’ve always pulled through. It takes commitment from sponsors, the sound and lighting crew, and of course the organising committee to make it happen. More than anyone else, Stan has stepped up to the plate and made it happen. BOTB was always intended to be a family-friendly event and that’s what it is now, with bands all supporting each other to create a great atmosphere. The fact we have Diene Mutter, last year’s covers winners, playing songs by German industrial metal band Rammstein, and yet people are still here enjoying themselves says a lot. It shouldn’t work, yet somehow it does!” WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: horshambotb.co.uk @HorshamBOTB THE BANDS Demure Band demure_band space.fishermen Space Fishermen commonbuzzards Common Buzzards absolute loves

Aw Award-Winnin Award-Winni Award-Winn Award-Win Award-Wi Award-W AwardAward Awar Awa Award-Winning G Go Gou Gour Gourm Gourme Gourmet SSausages Sa Sau Saus Sausa Sausag Sausage aand an QQuality Qu Qua Qual Quali Qualit M Me Mea Meat Meats 53

Fantastic selection of meats and sausages available from the Horsham Local Produce Market every Saturday from 8am - 4pm. Here is a small selection of what we have to offer you: Rolled turkey breast with a bacon lattice * Ribs of Beef * Pigs In Blankets Sausage Wreaths * Sausage Meats * Gammon Joints Go to our website to see the full range available

10% OFF

Valid until 3 September 2022. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Redeemable from Horsham Market or as a pre-order collection (from Blatchford Close)

(01403) 262233 infobangersgalore@gmail.com Unit 10 Blatchford Close, Horsham, RH13 5RG @bangersgalore

Visit us online at www.bangersgalore.co.uk

Independent Kitchen & Bedroom Specialists

Individually designed to complement your tastes and lifestyle Featuring the latest technology, classic and modern styling and inspired design concepts, visualise `V\Y WLYMLJ[ RP[JOLU OVTL VMÄJL VY ILKYVVT HUK experience its creation with Holmewood Interiors. Starting from the design process through to the completed installation, our superior quality and workmanship will always JYLH[L H ZWHJL `V\ JHU IL WYV\K VM

Book your appointment Our showroom is open! Contact us and secure an appointment with our team to avoid disappointment.

t: 01403 254090 e: info@holmewoodinteriors.co.uk www.holmewoodinteriors.co.uk

GEAR CHANGE

PASSION FOR CYCLING INSPIRES NEW REPAIR BUSINESS

43 55

Keen cyclist Simon Bedford has launched his own repair and servicing business, based at his Billingshurst home. Here, Simon talks to AAH about the post-pandemic cycling boom and his hopes for Revolution Cycle Sport...

How long have you been cycling for? I started cycling properly when I left the Army in 2009 and joined the Met Police, where I worked for five years. As I enjoyed riding and competing in triathlons, I decided to embark on a bold career change, using a grant from the Army to retrain with Cycle Systems Academy.

Did that lead to employment? I worked at Sigma Sports, a road and triathlon bike specialists based in Kingston, starting as a bike mechanic and leaving as workshop manager for a new job at British Cycling. As a regional events officer, I oversaw road racing, Cyclo-cross, mountain biking, BMX and other cycling events in the south east, helping them to expand to become regional or national events. It was interesting, but after a couple of years of covering the same schedule, it was time to move on. To what? In 2017, I took over my father-in-law’s design business, which gave me an opportunity to try something new. My heart was never truly in it, but I learned a lot about marketing, web design and business operations. During the lockdown of 2020, I watched countless riders pass my house,

which inspired me to start my own bike repair and servicing business. As I had undergone training, spent time in a workshop and had experience of setting up websites and marketing, I felt I had the attributes required to succeed. When did you launch the business? Revolution Cycle Sport was founded in October 2020. My workshop is at home, which gives me the freedom to run the business around my family. How did the pandemic impact cycling’s popularity? 2020 was one of the best summers we've ever had. It was hot and many people had time on their hands, as they were on furlough and working from home, or had reassessed their life and were devoting more time to their health and wellbeing. Cycling was a beneficiary of that. It was amazing to see normally busy roads like the A272 being practically car-free and cyclists enjoying them instead! There was suddenly huge demand for bikes which far outstripped supply and that led to long waiting lists for new bikes and a buoyant market for second-hand ones.

Was that good or bad for you? It was good because people were buying or selling second-hand bikes and needed them repaired. But with the slowdown of manufacturing and delays in supply chains, it was difficult to source the components and tools I needed. Because of that, I delayed launching the business by several months. It would have been unprofessional to promote myself as a bike mechanic without having the means to repair anything!

What servicing options do you offer? There are three levels. The bronze service is akin to an annual check-up or tune-up prior to a race or event. With the silver service, in addition to checking the brakes and gears, we ensure the drive train is in good condition. This should be done every 12 - 18 months, or more if the bike is used regularly. With the gold service, the bike is taken apart and everything is serviced. There are variables that dictate how often a bike needs servicing, such as the quality of the components, how often you ride and even your riding style.

Why is servicing important? It prevents something small becoming a big issue. Changing the chain might cost £40 and give you prolonged use of your drivetrain, but if you keep riding until the chain slips and grinds, you’re potentially looking at having to replace the entire drivetrain. Prior to COVID, it was easy to buy parts so there was more temptation to ride a bike until something broke. Now, it’s harder to find replacements and that can mean you’re off the road for a while. Regular servicing doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg and it keeps you pedalling. 57

Approved Servicing for:

Also Approved for

NOW AN APPROVED JEEP SERVICE CENTRE Jeep owners concerned about the closure of Horsham Car Centre can now have their Jeep serviced and warranty work carried out by Fiat Group trained technicians at Monza Sport. Call us for details.

Monza Sport is an approved service dealer for Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Abarth and now Jeep, offering the highest levels of customer satisfaction. We offer servicing & MOTs, parts and tuning services, aircon re-gas, tyre fitting and 4 wheel laser alignment. We have special labour rates for older cars and offer courtesy cars. We have a vastly experienced Service Manager in Keith Avey and one of the country’s best technicians and diagnostic experts in Kevin Riddles. On four occasions we’ve topped the JD Power customer satisfaction surveys for Alfa Romeo. (*No.1 out of 165 Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Chrysler Jeep dealers for customer satisfaction in the UK, Jan - Mar 2018)

Monza Sport, Bridge Garage, London Road, Ashington, RH20 3DD

Tel: (01903) 891174 www.monzasport.com

GOLDEN PLAICE

ASHINGTON FISH & CHIPS BURGERS

KEBABS PIZZA

THE FIRST & ORIGINAL GOLDEN PLAICE TAKEAWAY IN SUSSEX. WE USE THE FINEST INGREDIENTS WITH FISH COOKED TO YOUR ORDER. 58

OPENING HOURS: MON - THU: 11AM - 9.30PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 10.30PM SUNDAY: 12PM - 9.30PM

TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME

FRESHLY-COOKED DEEP-PAN PIZZA

KEBABS SERVED WITH FRESH SALAD

SELECTION OF BURGERS & CHICKEN

01903 893344 TURNPIKE WAY, LONDON ROAD, ASHINGTON, RH20 3JT

Many cyclists enjoy riding on the South Downs (iStock)

What type of bikes do you specialise in? I will service any bike, although most are mid to high-end, as that is where my own interest lies and as a keen cyclist, I can talk to customers about their requirements. In the summer months, I work mostly on road bikes, but as winter draws in the mountain bikes start coming out to play. We have a vibrant road racing scene in the region, but being close to the South Downs and Surrey Hills means there are fantastic mountain bike trails too. I love riding along the Downs and find the pedal up Chantry Lane in Storrington a particularly challenging workout! There are some lovely rural routes and you can easily clock up 40 miles without ever being more than 10 or 15 miles from home. What is Revolution Cycle Sport’s USP? Customer service. I have a friendly, flexible and approachable stance and that is why people come to me. I can drop-off a bike on a Sunday afternoon if that's what’s

needed. Also, my experience of cycling helps and that is reflected in the feedback I receive. Customers appreciate an honest opinion and I’m able to give feedback on products within a customer’s own budget. How would you like to see the business grow? I've always relied on word-ofmouth and customers come by way of recommendation. Hopefully I can keep expanding that way. There are a lot of cyclists in the District and I have sponsored some sections of Strava (a riding app) close to my Billingshurst home, so hopefully that’ll attract a few cyclists as they pedal by!

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright Further information: (01403) 336224 info@revolutioncyclesport.co.uk revolutioncyclesport.co.uk RevolutionCycleSportUK revolutioncyclesportuk

G&S

PROTECTING YOUR

ROOF

Roofing Specialists Ltd

The Confederation of Roofing Contractors stands for INTEGRITY, RELIABILITY & CUSTOMER PROTECTION.

All members of the CORC can offer customers the benefit of a fully insured 10 and 20 year back up guarantee

Visit us at: www.gandsroofing.co.uk

Th e

Ne Fl xt G at R ene o o ra fin tio g n

RESIN MATERIAL OUTLASTS THE BUILDING FIRE RETARDANT CANNOT BE CUT MAINTENANCE FREE NO JOINTS, SEAMS OR WELDS UV RESISTANT & WATERPROOF ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY THREE FINISHES / THREE COLOURS 25 YEAR GUARANTEE

We Specialise in...

New Roofs Flat Roofs Tile & Slate Roofs Re-pointing Chimney Stacks Leadwork Valleys Renewed & Repaired All Roof Repairs New PVC Fascias & Gutters External Painting Moss Removal

F r e e E s ti ma t e s

No Ob l i g a ti o n

P a y No De p o s i t

ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED!

OFFICE: 01403 560172 / 01483 378511 MOBILE: 07425 396324 EMAIL: gsroofingspecialists@gmail.com

Trusted Member

Wide Range of Scooters, Wheelchairs & Walking Aids

Now Available - Profiling Beds & Mattresses Profiling beds are designed to help those with severe or critical needs to stay as healthy and as comfortable in bed and get a good night's sleep. The electric profiling beds have high powered motors to help raise the head and / or legs with ease and are always supported. Suitable for use in domestic or residential care home environments. Call for more information.

CANNABIDIOL (CBD) FOR PAIN RELIEF

SINGLE & DUAL MOTOR RISER RECLINER CHAIRS From £699 (exc.VAT) Atlas Mobility offers a full range of riser-recliners, high seat fireside armchairs and complementary sofas to assist all your comfort needs. Designed and crafted by skilled craftsmen using the very best materials to create upholstery that will stand the test of time.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is an appealing option for those looking for relief from pain and other symptoms without the mind-altering effects of certain pharmaceutical drugs or marijuana. Can relieve pain, could reduce anxiety/depression and benefit heart health. ACCESS CBD® comes in three flavours and five strengths. Starter (300mg) £5.99 Low (600mg) £9.99 Medium (1200mg) £16.99 Strong (2400mg) 29.99 X-Strong (4800mg) £49.99

ACCREDITED DEALER FOR ACORN STAIRLIFTS Contact us for Prices As an accredited dealer, for Acorn stairlifts we are your local personal point of contact in providing the best solution in meeting your stair lift needs. Call us first and arrange a FREE no obligation visit from an engineer to see what is best for you (new or reconditioned stairlifts are available).

ATLAS MOBILITY (SUSSEX) LIMITED Phone: (01403) 263553 | Email: info@atlasmobility.co.uk Web: http://atlasmobility.co.uk Visit us: 64 East Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1HN

HOMELY CARE

TAPESTRY LUNCH CLUB PROVIDES CARERS WITH SOME RESPITE

Sat around a table in a shaded corner of a Horsham garden, I find myself in conversation with four people at the Tapestry Lunch Club. There’s excitement (a smidgen) at the presence of a reporter from the local magazine, although two of them haven’t heard of AAH and the others may only be nodding familiarity out of politeness. However, there’s some nervousness due to the recording device I’ve placed in the centre of the table. It’s stifling conversation, so I switch it off and it does the trick. We talk about the existence of towns called Horsham in Pennsylvania and Australia, the hot air balloon festival in Wisborough Green and how shiny my shoes are. Inevitably, we chat about the weather too, although one of the women insists she hasn’t noticed the soaring temperatures, which proves to be a precursor to her explaining how she used to live in South Africa.

After fifteen minutes, talk turns to the kind of topics I was seeking when the tape was running. Like how people can feel lonely in later life, with families spread further afield in today’s world. Which is just one of the reasons why the Tapestry Lunch Club makes a difference. It offers people who may be living in isolation or have symptoms associated with memory loss to come together at least once a week to enjoy good food and good times.

ALL ABOUT TAPESTRY… Tapestry Day Club was founded in 2019 by friends Anderley Wade and Clare Jones. Anderley’s father was suffering with dementia and she wasn't comfortable with him using support services that were offered at venues like church halls or community centres, as they were generally larger gatherings. Clare’s father was also beginning to have some memory issues and she felt that he too would feel overwhelmed in a big group. So, the two friends discussed the idea of

organising smaller groups to meet at somebody’s house, with a host employed to look after them. The host would provide a meal and activities for a maximum of five guests, offering them a more intimate experience in a safe environment. And with that, Tapestry Lunch Club was born! Clare said: “We started in the Horsham District and received some funding from West Sussex County Council. We specifically offer the club for people living with earlystage dementia, but critically also support their carers by giving them five hours of respite. Another thing that makes us different is that our hosts organise

Co-founders Clare and Anderley

SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT

AAH is an independent, monthly magazine, celebrating the very best of the Horsham District. We deliver directly to 12,000 homes, with rounds in Horsham, Highwood, Broadbridge Heath, Wickhurst Green, Mannings Heath, Southwater, Billingshurst and West Chiltington. In association with Self Select Distribution, AAH is also available as a free pick-up at Tesco in Broadbridge Heath and Sainsbury’s in Horsham.

AAH SPRING-LOADED STANDS AAH also has bespoke, spring-loaded stands across the Horsham District. Find us at: Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax), The Living Room (Swan Walk) Pavilions in the Park (Hurst Road) Horsham Rail Station, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric), At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), New Street Butchers, New House Farm, The Holbrook Club, CoCo’s Salon (Southwater) Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington), Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Billy’s on the Road, Faygate Village Store, Bluecoat Sports Centre (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens (Lower Beeding), Meadow Stores (Thakeham) Warnham Village Stores, The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Slinfold Golf & Country Club, Steyning Leisure Centre, Cobblestone Walk (Steyning), Golden Plaice (Ashington) & Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington)

transport, picking up guests and dropping them home afterwards. I’ve spoken to carers and they have told me that an hour’s respite is lovely, but five hours gives them time to do important jobs or fully recharge. They also have peace of mind, knowing their loved one is in good hands.” “Some of our guests can be quite tentative and quiet initially, but they soon settle in and after a few weeks our lunches are like a social club. It’s like going to a friend’s house! People have formed close friendships and the hosts form strong bonds with guests too, to the extent that everyone involved looks forward to it.”

THE HOSTS

To advertise in AAH, email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk

Hosts undertake several training modules, mostly online, covering food safety, moving and handling of people, mental health, dementia awareness and first aid. Some also become “dementia champions” to gain a greater understanding of people with dementia. In addition to training, Tapestry provides hosts with an

allowance to feed guests and cover fuel costs. They assess a host’s home to ensure it’s suitable and that the vehicles used to transport guests have an MOT and insurance. But when it comes to food and entertainment, that’s down to individual hosts. One of the first was Kate Bertolazi, who hosts a lunch club on Tuesday and Thursdays. Kate said: “I work as a nanny and the lunch club fits in perfectly with my schedule. I pick up children at 8am and take them to school, pick them up at 3pm and care for them for a few hours until I drop them back home. I had a gap in my days and the lunch club fills that twice a week. When I first heard about it, I thought it was an amazing idea!”

“I don’t try to squeeze too much in to a day. We chat over coffee, listen to music, play board games or card games like pairs, and sometimes have fun in the garden with ring toss or boules. I make a two-course lunch and today is chorizo and chicken pasta bake with strawberries and ice cream.” 'Because lunch is at the heart of what the club does, hosts are inspected for food standards and I’ve received a five-star food hygiene rating from Horsham District Council. Normally, we have five guests so I pick up three of them and my dad, who lives in Storrington, picks up two in the south of the District, to minimise fuel costs. Being picked up and dropped back home is a big thing for

“We wanted to help alleviate some of the social loneliness and isolation that was rife throughout COVID.”

guests and their families. They don’t have to worry about them wandering off. Each day is very relaxing and guests don't have to join in with games if they don't feel like it. It’s really about getting people out and socialising.”

Everyone has a story. We have one lady who has conversations in French with my partner, two regular guests have fathers who were Prisoners of War, while another was a dog breeder who knows everything there is to know about poodles! So, for me, being a host is a pleasure.”

ROOM FOR GROWTH The Tapestry Lunch Club was established only months before the country went into lockdown. With guests being elderly or vulnerable people, it has taken time for the lunches to operate at capacity again and Anderley and Clare’s initial targets to grow the clubs have needed to be revised. 63

Discover our unique dementia care So many things define us as individuals, but dementia doesn’t have to. We see the person behind it, and help them live the life they want, to the full. As the only care home group with its own accredited City and Guilds dementia training 'My World', innovative dementia friendly design, and support for the whole family, you can trust that we go further.

Freephone

0808 223 5401 Online

caringhomes.org Scan to find out more

Chantry Court, Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 3XY

However, they were still able to help guests during COVID. Thanks to Lottery funding, Tapestry rented GrandPad tablets specifically designed for senior citizens. As well as enabling guests to meet through Zoom, they also taught them how to use the tablets to connect with loved ones all around the world. In addition, freshly-made lunches were delivered to guests before the Zoom meetings, so the experience could be as close to a normal Tapestry Lunch Club as possible. Clare said: “A lot of elderly people are living on their own and we wanted to help alleviate some of the social loneliness and isolation that was rife throughout the pandemic.” “We were finally able to restart the clubs in May 2021 and have been rebuilding for the past year. We now have ten hosts and have received some funding from Waverley Borough Council to expand there area too, but we’d also like to have one or two more hosts in the Horsham District.”

“We need to deliver a certain number of hours per year to support carers and have some way to go before we’re delivering the number of hours we committed to. Those projections didn’t factor in the disruption of COVID and even now, if one of our guests isolates, it makes a big difference when our group numbers are kept small.” “We are very grateful for County Council funding, as it makes a huge difference to people. It means we can subsidise our daily rate to £40 (rather than £60) with guests enjoying a lovely day with home-cooked food, while their carers get some much-needed respite.”

WORDS: Ben Morris PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further information: 01403 791020 support@tapestrydayclub.co.uk www.tapestrydayclub.co.uk tapestrydayclub TapestryClub

Ascot Care, 6 Kings Court, Harwood Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH13 5UR

www.ascotcare.com l 01403 218511

FINAL WORD

THE TRAGIC STORY OF COMPOSER GEORGE BUTTERWORTH

Regular listeners of Classic FM may be familiar with composer George Butterworth. He is best known for his beautiful 1913 composition, The Banks of Green Willow, which placed No.111 in the station’s 2022 Hall of Fame. Butterworth might have gone on to become one of the great composers of a golden age of British classical music, as revered as Holst, Elgar or his close friend and fellow collector of English folk songs, Ralph Vaughan-Williams. But like countless others, he was to fall in the Battle of the Somme, having composed only three works for orchestra.

In 2019, a documentary called All My Life’s Buried Here: The Story of George Butterworth was shown at cinemas across the UK, including two screenings at The Capitol in Horsham. The local interest was significant due to the composer’s links with the Horsham District, with The Banks of Green Willow itself based on folk melodies Butterworth had heard sung by Mrs Cranstone of Billingshurst in June 1907. Stewart Morgan Hajdukiewicz, the film-maker behind the documentary, told AAH at the time: “It is on record that Butterworth visited Horsham to collect folk songs on at least two occasions, first from Mrs Verrall of Billingshurst and later returning to collect songs from her husband. This indicates a wealth of material and the Verralls were evidently a rich source for Butterworth and other collectors. It is also likely he used accommodation in Horsham as a base to travel to singers located in more rural locations, such as Billingshurst and Pulborough.” “Horsham was also home to Henry Burstow, a traditional singer whose 1911 memoir, Reminiscences of Horsham served as a key source in understanding folk music in Sussex before 1914. His book included a list of some 400 songs that he knew about. Burstow was first visited by the song collector Lucy Broadwood, who was a mentor figure for Butterworth.”

George Butterworth died at The Battle of the Somme

In 1912, Butterworth had written 11 songs, set to ‘A Shropshire Lad’, a collection of poems by A.E Housman. He also wrote Two English Idylls in 1911, followed by his most famous work, The Banks of Green Willow. He is thought to have destroyed many other works he didnt care for. He was said to be an expert folk dancer and enjoyed Morris dancing. In July 1916, Butterworth was wounded as he and his men captured a series of trenches near Pozieres, for which he was awarded the Military Cross. Sadly, he never lived to receive it, losing his life to a sniper’s bullet on 5 August. His body was never recovered.

For those interested in further researching Butterworth’s links with Horsham, the Vaughan Williams Memorial Library has digitised his folk song manuscripts and notes and these are available online. A biography entitled 'Banks of Green Willow' by Anthony Murphy (available on Amazon) also mentions Butterworth’s trips to Horsham. Vaughan Williams, best known for his 1914 masterpiece The Lark Ascending, has his own local links, which we’ll hopefully explore in a future edition. Hajdukiewicz’s documentary covers Butterworth’s folk song collecting in detail. You can watch the trailer or order copies on DVD and Blu-Ray at georgebutterworth.co.uk

At Home E st ate an d Let t i n g s Ag en cy

We have moved with a brand new look. We can’t wait to show you around pop by and say hello to the team at 35 Carfax.

For a free valuation, call 01403 88 62 88 athomeestates.co.uk