AAH (ALL ABOUT HORSHAM) JANUARY 2022 by AAH (All About Horsham)

JANUARY 2022

AAH (ALL ABOUT HORSHAM) JANUARY 2022 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 sixth advert is placed free of charge, like a coffee shop. We can also design adverts if you need help, at no extra charge.

News Round-Up Animal rescue centre appeals for new home and new Leader of Horsham District Council elected.

18 Events The Rec in Horsham has replaced the bowling alley with an ice skating rink for winter.

27 Health Behind the scenes with medical staff and volunteers at the Vaccination Centre in Roffey.

33 Theatre Manor Theatre Group is known for near-the-knuckle pantomimes, the latest being Cinderella.

COVER STORY The first cover of 2022 features artist Lize Kruger working on her most recent painting, Fluid Dreams. As you can tell, Lize wasn’t really dressed for painting, but happily threw on an apron and picked up a palette for the photograph. Editor Ben was so impressed with the Horsham artist’s work that he returned to Lize’s home a few days later, when she hosted an Open Evening. Although he will go anywhere with free wine and nibbles... Other cover contenders included a young skater at the new Horsham ice rink, and several images from Christ’s Hospital’s senior school production of Chicago.

ABOUT AAH AAH is an independent monthly magazine, owned by editor Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. It is distributed to 13,000 doors, as well as pick-up points around the District. EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk (01903) 892899 AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, West Sussex, RH20 3PT

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAN WRIGHT www.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. AAH ONLINE www.aahorsham.co.uk AAH is published online on the 1st of each month. Archive editions are online too, along with past features. DISTRIBUTION The magazine is delivered to about 13,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages including Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Billingshurst and new estates at Highwood and Wickhurst Green. DOOR-TO-DOOR TEAM Horsham: Jacquie Paterson, the Judd family, the Rollingson family, the Voisey family, Katie Drysdale, the Garner family, Jill Shuker, the Arliss family, the Bloomfield family, Jake and Eve Lovett, Lara Green, the Gavira family, Hannah and Harvey Dold, Alessandro Cavallo, Jack Nicholls, the McCormick family, Charlie Merchant, Harry Baker. Southwater: The Brown family, The Chapman family Villages: The Palmer family (BBH) Amy Butler (Wickhurst Green) Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Nick Morris (Ashington), James Hobbs

(Thakeham), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) The Morris Family (West Chiltington) Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale - not currently able to deliver) PICK UP POINTS & STANDS Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands, at businesses, clubs and shops across the district. Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric) Village Stands: Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Barns Green Village Store, 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) BACK ISSUES We do keep a few copies of past editions. Copies cost £3.50 each, which includes postage. Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email: editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies NOTES Many thanks to the McCormick family, who have delivered AAH around Millais/Smithbarn for more than a year, but now have other commitments. A replacement will be announced next month. Meadow Stores and Cafe on the Abingworth development in Thakeham have allowed a stand there instead. We love working with farm shops that support local producers (we also have stands at Crates Local, New House Farm and Spring Gardens) so appreciate the support of Meadow Stores.

Art

Community

Business

Education

Horsham artist Lize Kruger uses a range of layers and materials in her striking work.

The Rotary Club of Horsham holds social events as well as helping good causes.

Malulu works in partnership with Kenyan artisans to offer unique dog collars, leads and coats.

Christ’s Hospital’s re-opened theatre hosts a dazzling senior school production of Chicago.

HOLLOW HONOUR?

Notes from the Editor: And the winner is...does anyone care?

Christmas and New Year is traditionally a very slow time for media organisations. Nothing happens, so editors browse through press releases from local authorities for something – anything – to fill the pages. That’s why you’ll often read warnings from the Fire Service about the dangers of electrical items, or police reminding us not to drink and drive. Another avenue open to newspapers is to produce a round-up of the year’s ‘Best’ things. This typically involves asking the three or four reporters (if they’re lucky) still in the newsroom about their favourite album, film, TV show etc, and creating a ‘Top 10’ as some kind of cultural barometer. Or you could go one step further and invent your own awards... Even regional titles do this, distributing trophies for Best Business, Best Sports Club etc. Rarely is much effort put into finding those genuinely worthy of recognition. Instead, awards are largely dependent on self-promotion. To win, you either need to fill in your own voting slips, be a major networker, regularly advertise in the publication organising the awards, or at the very least buy a table for eight people at the presentation evening, priced £80 a head. These awards have always niggled me a little, as the term “award-winning” provides a degree of prestige. However, there’s a big difference to winning a

Pulitzer, Booker or BAFTA than the local Gazette’s High Street Champion of the Year, isn’t there? Yet local awards can be used ambiguously to elevate a business’ status. When I launched AAH in 2011, a rival publication promoted itself as “Magazine of the Year”, which it had won at its own in-house awards! I contemplated hosting my own and giving AAH the ‘Best Magazine of All Time’ award. But that would be silly, wouldn’t it? Hmmm... Not that major awards are any better! The Academy Awards have inspired many ‘Top 10 Times the Oscars got it Wrong’ lists, although my favourite injustice comes from the 1988 Grammy Awards. Song of the Year went to the James Horner-penned ‘Somewhere Out There,’ despite it basically being lyrics set to Beethoven’s ‘Pathetique’ sung by a cartoon mouse. Commiserations to Prince, U2 and Michael Jackson who recorded albums called Sign O’ the Times, The Joshua Tree and Bad that year! As well as these cultural prizes, there are countless industry awards held across all sectors and at AAH, we receive many press releases about local companies winning them. We can usually guarantee three things: The award is “prestigious”, as “awards” are always preceeded by the word “prestigious” in the same way “quintessentially” is always followed by the word “English”; The prizes were presented at a “glittering” ceremony,

usually a three-star hotel in Gatwick; and that it’s the “Oscars of the industry.” Which makes me wonder if there’s a Golden Globes for some of these industries too? A “second best awards night” for the electrical sector, or a TV Quick Awards for the haulage industry. If they are truly Oscar equivalents, I assume recipients receive the same privileges as actors and directors? Does the winner of the Plumber of the Year award take to the podium and criticise the treatment of Afghan refugees? Does the Long Haul Trucker of the Year get to command millions of dollars the next time they turn up for work? Suspect not... But perhaps we ought to highlight award winners from sectors beyond music, film and TV. Perhaps the increased public profile will elevate their standing in the community? And with a little extra publicity - The Graham Norton Show, perhaps? – maybe our finest domestic appliance engineers will be able to gain free access to nightclubs and bars around the world, like pop stars do. Perhaps our finest Health Care professionals will get to speak to world leaders as UN Ambassadors, much like Hollywood film stars. Or maybe the political views of the Binman of the Year (yes, I know you’re supposed to call them Refuse Collectors!) will make front page headlines. All because of an inflated ego based on the privileges bestowed on them by a flimsy plastic trophy.

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Transformation through education Christ’s Hospital: The leading independent boarding school for fee assisted places T: 01403 246 555 E: hello@christs-hospital.org.uk Christ’s Hospital, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 0LJ www.christs-hospital.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1120090

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Horsham’s only co-educational independent school for ages 4 to 18

OPEN MORNING: RECEPTION 2022 Thursday, 10th February 2022, individual tours from 9am onwards

OPEN MORNING: WHOLE SCHOOL Saturday, 12th March 2022, 10am - 1pm Advance booking essential

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

Laura Santini at Holbrook Animal Rescue (©AAH/Toby Phillips 2019)

Horsham Animal Rescue has launched an appeal to raise funds for a new home. The rescue centre is being forced to relocate to make way for the new development in the north of Horsham. The charity, run by Laura and Cliff Santini and a team of volunteers, doesn’t own the

Councillor Jonathan Chowen was elected the new Leader of Horsham District Council on 3 December. Cllr Chowen said: “I want to protect and enhance Horsham town, our historic villages and beautiful countryside, not build all over it with imposed housing numbers that ignore the needs of our residents.” He added that plans for large scale housing developments such as those proposed at Adversane, Rookwood (pictured) and Buck Barn are “not feasible” without government investment in large scale infrastructure. Cllr Chowen (Conservative) represents the Cowfold, Shermanbury and West Grinstead ward.

land and in order to continue is calling on the community to donate and fundraise for a new site. Demand for - has risen since lockdown restrictions ended and there are currently around 35 dogs in their care, with more requests for help each week. Laura said: “We are very proud of the environment

Rugby legend Phil Vickery MBE comes to The Capitol, Horsham, on Saturday 5 February, 7.30pm. One of the legends of Rugby Union, Vickery captained England at the 2007 World Cup and was part of the historic team that lifted the Webb Ellis trophy in 2003. He also played for the British & Irish Lions and remains involved in coaching and commentating. Hosted by the BBC's Andy Wyman, he talks of growing up in Cornwall, career highlights, and his passion for cooking, followed by an Q&A. Tickets £22.50 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com

we offer the animals in our care, but without support our future is uncertain. Land is expensive and we will put everything we have into finding a new location, but we can’t do this alone. We urgently need the public’s help.” holbrookanimalrescue@outlook.com

Horsham District Council has responded to the public consultation regarding the potential development of the northern runway at Gatwick Airport, which would see significant expansion. HDC has concerns with several aspects of the proposals and has asked for improved engagement by Gatwick Airport Ltd with residents. It has also asked Gatwick for more evidence regarding the actual need for expansion, and details as to how it would change aircraft movements and flight paths. View at www.horsham.gov.uk/planning/ planning-policy/responses-to-planningconsultations

Vaccination Centre volunteers Jennie and Zach Collison and, right, Dawn Bunn and Richard Cheesman

Traditional Values... ...Modern Approach

Volunteers at the Vaccination Centre at Bluecoat Sports Centre, Christ’s Hospital, entered a prize draw before Christmas, with many receiving gifts donated by local businesses. The site has administered over 75,000 vaccinations and Horsham is currently ranked fourth in England for the booster roll out. To run sessions, the NHS staff are reliant on a team of 25 - 40 volunteers inside the venue and outside in the car park. Some volunteers have provided over 300 hours of work. Horsham MP Jeremy Quin helped with the draw.

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The new development being built to the north of Horsham is to be called Mowbray. Mowbray will incorporate about 2,750 homes, as well as facilities including the new Bohunt School (pictured), which is set to open in January 2022. Mowbray is a name important to Horsham’s history. The ancient manor of Horsham was given by William the Conqueror to William de Braose and remained in his family until 1326. In 1298, William's daughter married John de Mowbray and the Manor passed to John. His descendant, Thomas de Mowbray, was made Duke of Norfolk in 1398. The lion rampant on the Horsham District Council crest was taken from the de Braose and Mowbray crests. West Sussex Libraries offer a free Remote Digital Support service, which supports residents with digital enquiries such as using Zoom, email and shopping safely online. The Library Digital Support operates Monday – Friday at 10am - 4pm. The service is ideal for those who are unable to visit the library or who do not feel comfortable receiving face to face support yet. For details email: library.digital.support@westsussex. gov.uk

Barns Green Players (©AAH/Toby Phillips, January 2020)

The Barns Green Players host their annual pantomime, Aladdin, at the Barns Green Village Hall on 14 – 16 and 21 – 22 January. Restrictions allowing, a total of seven shows will be performed over two weekends, with a reduced capacity for social distancing. The Players has been established for nearly 50 years, performing a range of performances from comedies to Shakespearean productions. www.barnsgreenplayers.co.uk

TOOVEY’S Dani Burnett, a singer/songwriter from Southwater, has won the Vocal-Star Unsigned 2021 competition. The singing competition attracted thousands of entries across three categories (Under-18, Musicals and Solo) with Dani winning the Solo contest with renditions of ‘Crawling’ by Linkin Park and ‘Unchained Melody’ by The Righteous Brothers. The prize includes £1000 to help with the promotion of his music, but Dani said the biggest reward has been the encouragement it has given him to pursue singing and writing. Dani writes his own music and has recorded versions of classic songs including ‘Yesterday’ and ‘White Christmas’. Listen on Spotify, iTunes, Deezer, Amazon Music or www.daniburnett5.bandcamp.com

A selection of gentlemen’s watches auctioned in our 2021 specialist sales of Wristwatches and Pocket Watches for a total of £33,400

Time to sell? 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. The Trinity Church Players present The Pied Piper of Horsham at Holy Trinity Church Hall, Rushams Road, Horsham, on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 January 2022. The pantomime is written by members of the group, which has about 70 members from the church community and beyond.

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Horsham brothers Charlie and Sam Smith raised over £3,700 for Rockinghorse Children’s Charity by taking part in Brighton & Hove’s annual Santa Dash on 11 December. It’s a cause close to their hearts, as in September 2021, Charlie’s two-year old daughter Delilah was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare cancer that often causes blindness, with 50% of children having to have the affected eye removed. Brightonbased Rockinghorse, the fundraising arm of the Royal

Alexandra Children’s Hospital, has provided support to the family following Delilah’s diagnosis. Charlie said: “Rockinghorse believes that children should always be allowed to be children. The charity has really helped Delilah and us through her gruelling treatment and we know how much it means to so many other families as they face their tough days.” To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ charlie-smith-santadash

Billingshurst writer Paul Shave has written two books of interest to cat lovers. The second book, Cat Roots, is about four cats in London just after the Second World War. Two are feral, surviving on scraps behind a bakery, while the other two live in luxury. The cats are the ancestors of those featured in Paul’s first book, Five Cool Cats (Watch Out for Tommy!) This mostly fictitious tale traces the lives of 17 generations of cats, with the book imagining what could be found if cats could research their roots. The books are available on Amazon, with a Kindle version too.

Charlie Smith and his daughter Delilah 12

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Ceres, in partnership with STEM Learning UK, has launched the Reimagine secondary school video competition, to inspire students interested in tackling climate change using hydrogen technologies. Students are invited to submit a three minute video explaining an exciting scientific idea to help tackle the net zero mission using hydrogen. The winning submission will be turned into a professional animation, with the successful team offered work experience and mentoring from Ceres’ most senior technical and business leaders. For a launch video and application details visit www.ceres.tech/reimagine

Horsham District Council has bestowed two former councillors as Honorary Aldermen for their outstanding service and dedication to the District. Eve Mauchel and Godfrey Newman were conferred with the title on 8 December 2021. Eve was a Member of Horsham Urban Council from 1967 - 72 and of HDC from 1973 95. Godfrey was a member of the Council from 1991 - 2021 for Forest Ward.

Ignite: Fire & Fantasy (©Nymans)

Nymans in Handcross hosts Ignite: Fire & Fantasy on 11 – 27 February and 2 – 6 March. Experience the enchanting effects of fire, light and lanterns throughout the grade II listed National Trust gardens. This new, after-dark illuminated trail features fleeting fairies and woodland wildlife sculpted in willow, with the garden lit by lanterns. Within this fiery interpretation of stars and spheres, illuminated flora and fantasy, are moments of reflection and playful discovery. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nymans

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Horsham Bridge Club’s new course for beginners/refreshers starts online on Tuesday 11 January. The new ‘Bridge for All’ course, run by qualified teachers, will be held every Tuesday from 9.30 - 11.30am. The club, which has more than 300 members, hosts afternoon games at its East Street premises, plus afternoon and evening games online. New members and visitors are always welcome. Tutor Alan Setchell said: “Bridge players love the face-to-face experience but since lessons went online during lockdown, one course has doubled in size!” Visit www.horshambridge.co.uk or email sec@horshambridge.co.uk

A Vintage Toys & Train Collectors’ Fair will be held at Ashington Community Centre, Foster Lane, Ashington, on Sunday 9 January, from 9.30am (8am sellers). Expect a wide range of toys, trains and associated books & memorabilia for sale. New stallholders welcome. Entry £2. The toyfair also visits Broadbridge Heath Village Hall on Saturday 23 April. www.modeltoyauctions.co.uk

Mulberry Bush Ltd has celebrated its 25th anniversary. Jonathan and Shirley Copeland launched the business in 1996, selling traditional and innovative toys, gifts and games for children. The business, based in Slinfold and now run by son Paul, has steadily grown, acquiring a number of businesses and developing a range of personalised gifts too. www.mulberrybush.co.uk 15

Bring your goals a step closer. Putting together a plan early in the tax year to utilise the savings allowances and exemptions available can have a big impact towards achieving your long-term goals. When it comes to investing, you might want to take action now to give your money longer to grow – or set up a regular savings plan to invest a little each month. The key is to plan ahead and take advantage of the tax breaks available to keep you heading in the right direction.

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The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances. 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

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Bluecoat Sports hosts its annual Bluecoats Live Open Day on Saturday 29 January. Everyone is welcome to try out the facilities free of charge, including fitness classes like Body Pump, Indoor Cycling and Yoga, a gym workout, swimming and squash. Children’s activities include squash and gymnastics tasters, Jump ‘n’ Play and a treasure trail. There will also be a membership offer running over the weekend. Secure your place at www.bluecoatsports.co.uk

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The booking system for the paddling beach at Southwater Country Park is to be extended. The system was put in place to manage the volume of people on the beach in peak periods and to make it safer. Following public feedback from a Horsham District Council user survey, HDC has decided to run the system again in summer 2022. The temporary fence around the beach will stay up, but outside peak periods the gate will remain open. Some have expressed concerns about wildlife welfare, in particular the swans after the shooting of two cygnets at the park, with a £1,000 reward offered for information leading to a successful prosecution. However, the Council’s Countryside Warden team, together with the Swan and Friends Bird Rescue organisation, do not believe the fence impacts negatively on wildlife, as it keeps dogs away from the beach area and helps reduce litter. Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor is coming out of retirement to star in Come What May at The Capitol on Thursday 24 February 2022. Come What May is the ultimate tribute to Moulin Rouge and other hit movie musicals including Rocketman, The Greatest Showman, A Star is Born, Burlesque and more. Tickets £26.50 from (01403) 750220 or www.thecapitolhorsham.com To submit articles/events listings to the News Round-Up section, email Ben at editor@aahorsham.co.uk

(©AAH/Alan Wright)

CHILL OUT ZONE

THE REC BOWLING ALLEY TRANSFORMED INTO ICE SKATING RINK The Rec in Horsham has been transformed into an ice rink for winter. Occupying the space of the former bowling alley, which has been permanently removed, the rink has attracted thousands of visitors over the festive period. As well as the 25m x 25m rink, The Rec has improved its food and drink offering to include an après ski bar serving mulled wine, hot chocolate, fondue and other seasonal treats.

Nick McDowell, co-founder of The Rec Rooms, said: “When we took over the building, we inherited a bowling alley nearing the end of its life. After an audit of the machinery, we had the choice of investing in entirely new bowling lanes and equipment, or trying something different. One idea was to install an ice rink, so I emailed Garry Mortimer-Cook (Town Centres Manager at Horsham District Council) and within minutes received a call from Adam Proto of event specialists Terbell Ltd, which has experience of fitting ice rinks across the south. The project

The rink is perfect for beginners and families (©AAH/Alan Wright)

snowballed and within weeks the rink was complete!” Josie Proto of Terbell Ltd, which has previously helped organise events such as Kidz Stuff in Horsham Park, said: “The Rec team just threw the idea out there, as they wanted something special for Christmas, especially after the disappointment of Christmas 2020. Hopefully, the ice rink provides a bit of festive cheer for the community!”

Josie Proto of Terbell Ltd (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The Rec ice rink occupies the space of the old bowling alley (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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The rink opened on 1 December, offering 45 minute skating sessions, and has proved particularly popular with families, with skate hire and penguin/snowman skating aids available. It also hosts DJ and student nights, quiet skate sessions, and has been in demand with ice hockey teams too. With other rinks fully booked, the Solent Devils have been travelling to Horsham from Gosport, with ten junior and senior teams using The Rec to train. This is partly down to the high quality of the ice. Glycol is pumped through cooling pipes, with layers of water then applied and frozen over the top. The process is repeated to build up layers of ice, until it’s thick enough to withstand the pressure of many skaters. The ice is scraped and resurfaced between sessions, so it’s in perfect condition for the next group.

“Some of our trained ice marshals are figure skaters or hockey players and have remarked how good the ice is.” Josie said: “The ice is very well maintained and we’ve put a lot of work into ensuring it is of a high quality. Some of our trained ice marshals are figure skaters or hockey players and have remarked how good the ice is. We’ll keep working to maintain it throughout the season, as it makes a big difference to people’s experience on the rink.”

Skating aids help beginners take to the ice (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Nick McDowell, co-founder of The Rec Rooms (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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EXCITING VENTURES Formerly known as the Park Recreation Centre, the building in Albion Way has undergone many changes. Once a Council-operated leisure centre, The Rec hosted indoor sports as well as roller discos, roadshows and other events. Later incarnations saw the downstairs area transformed into Shelley’s nightclub, with tenpin bowling and laser quest upstairs. Now, the laser quest is gone and the only reminder of the bowling alley are the skittles, hand-painted by children and now adorning the walls. Instead, the venue incorporates The Rec Rooms, which hosts music and comedy, as well as the Clubhouse, a sports bar with pool and darts.

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The upstairs space could be used to accommodate a variety of attractions and activities during the year, aside from ice skating. Nick said: “The space is occupied by the rink now, but who knows what we’ll offer in summer? We want to keep the venue fresh and interesting, bringing in events that have a novelty factor and offer something exciting. Everything has a shelf life and although ice skating is wonderful in winter, interest will wain and we’ll need something else. We have thought about an inflatable Ninja Warrior style course and I would love to host curling here too.” The Rec may be used for other activities and events in future (©AAH/Alan Wright) 22

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“Businesses are welcome to approach us with their ideas and perhaps we can organise a joint venture, as we have with the ice rink. Another idea is to do to ice rinks what Puttshack has done to indoor golf, transforming it into a cool and vibrant experience with great food and drink. We’ll have to wait and see…”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Further information To book a session (one hour, with 45 minutes of ice time) visit www.therecrink.com Don’t forget gloves are required on the rink.

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Opening of Outstanding School

Science Laboratories Rosalind Franklin, NASA’s first black, female engineer Mary Jackson and self-educated Michael Faraday.

On Friday 26th November, Duke of Kent School, Ewhurst, was proud and delighted to open two brand new, state of the art Science laboratories. The event provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate the School's community ethos, by inviting former Deputy Head Boy from 2013-14, James Harrison, to cut the ribbon and officially open the laboratories. James recounted fond memories of studying Science at Duke of Kent School, and how it inspired him to go to the University of Southampton, where he is now in his final year at Medical School. Breathtaking educational graphics were made for the new laboratory walls by parent, Roo Ball, bringing to life photosynthesis, the human body, the electromagnetic spectrum and the solar system. Mrs Sue Knox, Head, thanked him and all involved in the project; Keith Stacey, Operations Bursar who led the

project, Steve Petch, Facilities Manager, and Trevor Tyrell who led the design and construction. Year 11 pupils were in attendance and STEM Prefect, Oscar H (Year 11), spoke on behalf of the pupils, relaying their delight with the new learning environments.

The Science Department re-named their three laboratories after scientists who achieved incredible success despite facing immense challenges. Head of Science, Mrs Tattan-Robb, unveiled the chosen scientists; DNA and virus pioneer

The fantastic new facilities at Duke of Kent School provide a stimulating and engaging environment for pupils from Year 3 to Year 11 to pursue the ever increasing range of enriching science opportunities on offer at the School over and above the curriculum. Prep School pupils will have access to the labs, enabling them to gain exciting practical experience in preparation for Senior School. Our aim is to give pupils the opportunity to achieve in Science beyond gaining their GCSE by entering national competitions, expanding knowledge through in-school science events, working towards science awards and participating in science clubs. Mrs Tattan-Robb Head of Science

A vibrant and nurturing co-educational setting from Nursery to GCSE To book a tour of the school, please visit our website or contact us on 01483 277313 Duke of Kent School, Peaslake Road, Ewhurst, Surrey, GU6 7NS @dukeofkentschool

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MORALE BOOSTERS

HOW STAFF & VOLUNTEERS WORK TOGETHER TO DELIVER VACCINE

Dr Benjamin Kearl, Clinical Lead at the Roffey Millennium Hall Vaccination Centre (©AAH/Alan Wright)

It remains to be seen how COVID will shape our daily lives in future. Will face masks become commonplace in theatres and sporting events? Will vaccine passports be mandatory for overseas travel? Will booster jabs become as routine for children as MMR jabs? Whatever its lasting impact on the social and political landscape, we will surely reflect with pride on the way communities and medical professionals came together in the vaccination programme. In Horsham, Bluecoat Sports Centre in Christ’s Hospital has administered over 75,000 vaccinations and is one of the country’s leading centres for the booster roll-out. Other GP-led centres at Roffey Millennium Hall, Glebe Surgery in Storrington, Pulborough Medical Centre and Henfield Medical Centre have also been administering vaccines across the District. AAH visited the Millennium Hall to meet medical staff, immunisers, managers and volunteers…

KEEPING RECORD On Thursday 9 December 2021, Stephen Bland, Vaccination Site Coordinator at the Roffey Vaccination Centre, briefs volunteers and healthcare staff shortly before the doors open to the public. It’s going to be another busy day. The Omicron variant is on the rise and yesterday, Prime Minster Boris Johnson announced new moves to slow its spread by recommending people work from home where possible and making face masks a legal requirement in most outdoor venues, including theatres and cinemas. The government’s booster jab drive will ensure there’s a steady flow of people arriving throughout the day. Semi-retired from the legal profession, Stephen responded to a recruitment drive by the Alliance for Better Care (ABC) for non-clinical leaders for vaccination centres. After his training, he joined a large vaccination centre in Tonbridge, where his wife worked as the Clinical Lead. When the centre closed, he moved to head up the Roffey centre. “There is always something happening here and many issues are IT related,” says Stephen. “Everything depends on us being able to update the NHS records for each

“We work well together and although it’s hard work, it’s enjoyable and very rewarding.” Dr Benjamin Kearl patient and that requires the internet. We had additional routers installed but because of the sheer volume of information, there can be problems. We also have to adjust to regular changes. Every day, site managers across the UK are updated on changes to protocol. Yesterday, the meeting was about the reduction in the time period between the second jab and the booster, which has gone down from six to three months. Most of the changes are politically-driven and when the government alters its position, we have to implement new protocols quickly.” “Working with NHS staff is a different experience for me and I’m so impressed by them all. I have a greater appreciation for what they do now. People working across the health service have remarkable empathy.”

Nurse Suzanne Bunch administers a booster jab (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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The vaccination centre requires a Clinical Lead – a medical professional who supervises to ensure it’s run safely. They are available to answer queries from the public, staff and volunteers, and assist people who may feel unwell, before or after vaccination. Dr Benjamin Kearl lives in Warnham and usually works as a GP in Horley, although he is currently one of the Clinical Leads at the Roffey centre. Dr Kearl said: “By the time they’ve come this far, most people know about the various vaccines. But some may be taking medication or suffer from allergies and require professional advice or just reassurance. Some have phobias of needles or suffer with anxiety, so we try to make them feel more comfortable.”

“The Omicron variant is still new, so we’re not yet fielding many questions about it. But people do have concerns about the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines used for boosters. Many received the AstraZeneca vaccine initially and are concerned about having two different vaccines. I also ensure all the vaccines are effective. The Pfizer vaccine needs to be diluted before it’s administered,and we must properly record when they are removed from the fridge, as they need to be administered within a set amount of time.” “There is continuity here, as there’s a good team spirit. When you bring together volunteers, healthcare professionals and trained immunisers, you get a diverse group of people with different skills. They come from a wide range of industries, with several previously working in aviation. We work well together and although it’s hard work, it’s enjoyable and rewarding.”

Members of the Rotary Club of Horsham volunteer (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“One of the first people I vaccinated was 101-years-old and in a wheelchair.” Richard Walker

VOLUNTEER HELP On the day of AAH’s visit, there are six people administering jabs, some working half days and others on full day shifts. They deal with a constant queue of people, most of whom have booked their booster online, having already received the first two vaccines. The job of keeping a steady flow is down not only to Stephen and the staff, but also

Immuniser Richard Walker and Site Coordinator Stephen Bland (©AAH/Alan Wright)

volunteers, including members of Horsham Rotary Club, who help both in and out of the hall. Barbara Blamires is a familiar face at the centre, where she plays a key role in maintaining the flow of people into the vaccination booths. Barbara is one of several members of the Holbrook Surgery Patient Participation Group to volunteer. Having perfected her duties,

she has even written out tips and instructions for others in her absence. “Most vaccinators have a signal to let me know they’re ready. It’s not just a matter of sending in the next person as one heads to the waiting area after their jab. The vaccinator needs to record each vaccine on the system and may need to add notes too, so communication is vital. You need eyes in the back of your head sometimes!” 29

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“As well as making sure you have people waiting to go into the next available booth, I need to wash the seat down every time and ensure people sit in the waiting room for 15 minutes after their jab, so they don’t suffer ill effects. It’s not easy, but I’ve perfected the routine!”

POSITIVE RESPONSE Among the immunising team is Richard Walker, a commercial airline pilot from Horsham. Richard initially worked in an administrative role at Crawley Hospital before responding to a national appeal for vaccinators. After a spell in Crawley, he joined the booster jab team at the Millennium Hall in September. Richard said: “It’s hard work as you’re seeing about 10 people an hour and I have done over 100 vaccinations in a shift before. One of the first people I vaccinated was 101-years-old and in a wheelchair, so some jabs take longer than others to 30

administer. But certainly with the older age groups, people roll their sleeves up and are keen to get on with it. They are very positive about the boosters, as they see the benefit it brings and want to do their bit to help.” “I tend not to interact with the public much as a pilot, other than in-flight announcements, so to be involved with something that people are excited about and appreciate has been a very worthwhile experience.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT Editor’s Note: Many thanks to Stephen Bland and his team for their patience during our visit and also to Roger Cato of the Rotary Club of Horsham for helping set up the visit.

Volunteer Barbara Blamires is a familiar face at the Roffey Vaccination Centre (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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Pantomime Dames Darren Worsfold and Dennis Manning as Patricia and Delicia (©AAH/Alan Wright)

DAME FINE SHOW

MANOR THEATRE GROUP SERVE UP A SLICE OF PANTO MAGIC Manor Theatre Group held its festive pantomime at Warnham Village Hall in December. Founded more than 40 years ago at Manor House in the Causeway, the small amateur dramatics group perform everything from comedy sketches to murder mysteries to adapted plays. After a lengthy lay-off due to COVID, the group returned with a raucous pantomime, Cinderella.

Darren: I was working for the police as a youth officer when my colleague Den roped me in when they were short. I said I’d only go if I was the back end of a cow, so nobody saw me. I turned up for rehearsal and he gave me the script and said, “Right, these are your lines and you’ve got to sing this!” I loved it though and never looked back! There’s a family feel to the group and nobody is turned away. We can always find a role, either on stage or behind the scenes.

As well as nods to classic comedies such as The Princess Bride, Monty Python and The Holy Grail and Four Weddings and a Funeral, it contained all the hallmarks of Manor Theatre’s output – slapstick, silliness and near-the-knuckle gags! AAH met writers/ dames Dennis ‘Den’ Manning and Darren Worsfold, assistant director/Fairy Laine Watson, Cinderella Becky Waine and producer/chairman Andy Page…

Laine: We are a close group and some of my best friends are at Manor. This can lead to occasional niggles, as it’s like a family. But it ensured that even during lockdown we made the effort to meet up regularly on Zoom. When lockdown ended, Andy filmed short sketches with some members of the cast, which we posted online. They were very good and helped attract a new audience. Andy: These included ‘The Shovel Sketch’, ‘The Bull Sketch’ and ‘The Christmas Cracker Interview Sketch’, while Den wrote a very funny dark comedy called ‘The Noose’. They provided an opportunity for the actors and

those of us behind the camera to keep active and explore new avenues. Dennis: Darren and I have written the pantomime in recent years, although both Roger (Kidd) and Andy (Page) have penned it in the past. We rotate between the usual favourites such as Cinderella, Snow White and Aladdin, as they attract a bigger audience. Traditional pantos like Dick Whittington don’t quite have the same appeal anymore. We have tried more off-the-wall ideas, like Pirates of the Curry Bean, and although they’ve always done okay as we have loyal supporters, they don’t attract as many young families. Darren: We work out the storyline first, then fit the songs and messy scenes around it. The fun part is breaking the plot down to individual scenes, then adding jokes. I collect one-liners all year round, but something that’s funny and topical in summer could be irrelevant by Christmas, so you’re always making changes. Even at the dress rehearsal, we’re thinking of adding a gag about the Downing Street Christmas party!

43 33

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir at St Mary’s Church, Horsham (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Andrew Bates and Suzanne Page (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Dennis: We are conscious of the fact that there are always people in the audience who don’t like panto and are watching because they’re with family. So we try to include gags that go over the heads of children, but might give the grown-ups a laugh. After a couple of glasses of wine, there are things we find hysterical and add to the script, but later realise we can’t keep in! Still, some jokes do sail close to the wind. Most mainstream pantos just follow a script. They may be big and colourful but they’re not funny, as they have to play it safe. That’s why some people like Manor Theatre, as not only do they save money on tickets, but we can be a bit 36

Sound engineer Stephen Cartwright (©AAH/Alan Wright)

naughtier too. Having said that, the humour isn’t for everybody and some don’t find us funny at all! Becky: The boys are hilarious and I never know what they’re going to throw at me. We rehearse every scene, but on the night of the performance, it could be a whole other story! There’s a lot of improvisation and they do whatever they can to make me laugh. But that’s the great thing about panto - you can have fun and unexpected moments end up becoming the fondest memories for us and get the biggest laugh too.

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Laine: I enjoy being on stage, but equally love helping behind the scenes, especially with set design. Den usually gives me an idea of what he’s after and I try make it as cheaply as possible! Often, the set contributes to the mayhem. If something breaks or falls off, the cast will shout, “You had one job!” to those of us off stage. The audience loves that! The funniest bits are those unscripted moments when something goes wrong.

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Dennis: We saw an influx of early ticket sales for the panto, as people were keen to get back to how things were before COVID. For many, a traditional Christmas includes seeing a panto with family, and we’ve been increasing our audience year after year, because our shows are different. Becky: I’ve been with Manor since I was 12, so I’ve missed the buzz you get from being on stage over the past two years. There is absolutely nothing like it in the world and I still get that feeling every time I step out from behind the curtain. We always meet the audience after the show in our costumes, and the moment the children get to meet the Princess makes it a very magical experience for me. Dennis: I’m not sure what the future holds for pantomime. Of course, it’s based on slapstick and tongue in cheek humour, but in the last year or two, the thought process of some people has changed. How long before people start questioning genders and the portrayal of stereotypes? But for now, we will just keep trying to have fun.

Laine Watson as the Fairy (©AAH/Alan Wright)

The crew with Becky Waine as Cinderella (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“Panto is based on slapstick and tongue in cheek humour, but the thought process of some people has changed.”

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

Becky Waine as Cinderella at Warnham Village Hall (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Darren: Manor has given me many great memories. Before retiring from the police in 2020, I was a youth officer. One time, I found an abandoned car and a group of young lads saw me and scarpered. I knew they were hiding, so called them out and one lad appeared and said, “Hey, I know you! You’re the Sheriff of Nottingham!” Andy: Although we’re an amateur theatre group, I like to think we go about things in a professional way. We care about the show and there’s a lot of skill and talent in the group, both on and off stage. Although I work mainly behind the scenes in marketing and production, I have taken to the stage a few times and enjoyed it, although I don’t think I’m a very good actor! Laine: We got within 10 days of performing Dry Rot in 2020, which was going to mark our 40th anniversary. It was delayed several times by COVID, so now we’ll have to learn our lines again! It’s a brilliant comedy farce, so we’re all looking forward to that in spring 2022. Fingers crossed, it’ll be able to go ahead!

38 43

INTERVIEWS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information: Dry Rot is scheduled to be performed at North Heath Hall, Horsham, on 1 – 2 April 2022, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Care. For tickets and information visit www.manorhorsham.com @manortheatrehorsham

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Slinfold Golf & Country Club Redefining the Country Club experience for all the family

What image is conjured up in your mind when you think of a Golf Club? Is it one of fusty changing rooms and old fashioned décor mingled with an air of austere formality and a closed door policy? Let us make you re-think your whole concept of what it means to join a Golf & Country Club!

It’s not just about golf! In fact, the game of golf is one of the smaller parts of the day-to day-activities at the Club. We have a thriving Health & Fitness community involving activities ranging from aqua aerobics to yoga to Zumba (actually, over 90 classes a week are held in our three studios). Complimented by our large, modern and spacious gym, you are sure to find the perfect style of exercise for what ever stage of life you are at.

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From the smallest babies at 4 weeks old through to teenagers, the Club wants to be part of their lifestyle too. With Parent & Baby parking at the front of the club house, a welcoming crèche for babies and toddlers, Fun Splash time in the swimming pool and Teen Gym for budding gym goers.

If the thought of massage, manicures, facials and treatments is your idea of heaven then the stylish luxury treatments rooms at The Retreat are for you…..and your friends! Coupled with a glass of wine and some delicious food, maybe a dip in the jacuzzi spa, you’re well on your way to being immersed in the day in the life of a Slinfold Golf & Country Club member!

The créche The Retreat

We believe in relaxing! From the warm sunny smile of our welcoming Reception Team to our varied Social Calendar, the Club works hard to make sure you can sit back, relax, make friends and join in with the Country Club Lifestyle. If you like a peaceful cup of coffee whilst reading the daily newspapers or a more lively event such as live music and BBQ’s, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Country Club Lifestyle is just a five minute drive from Billingshurst or Broadbridge Heath, and Horsham town centre is a short 7 minute drive away – make a visit to Slinfold Golf & Country Club one of your ‘to do’ items this January. We’d be delighted to see you!

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Lize Kruger on her remarkable new work, Fluid Dreams (©AAH/Alan Wright) 42

SHADES OF LIG

Cameo of Love (©Lize Kruger)

THE STUNNING MULTI-LAYERED ART OF LIZE KRUGER Lize Kruger established herself as an artist in South Africa, before a family tragedy led to an extended sabbatical. Now living in Horsham, her astonishing, multi-layered, digitally enhanced art is in demand all over the world. Here, Lize describes her journey…

CREATIVE FAMILY... My dad’s family were particularly creative. One of my aunts – a fashion designer and painter – stayed with us and saw enough potential to buy me a drawing book and oil paints. That’s how it started. I received my BA Fine Arts degree from North-West University in South Africa, where my work already leaned towards being conceptual and three-dimensional. The beauty of being

a student is that you can afford to make “high art” without worrying about making money! When I started a family, art allowed me to work from home, so I taught classes as well as creating my own work, often on huge canvases, as houses tend to have big walls in South Africa. Some of my work since has focused on children’s rights and I find many adults identify with the work, as it mirrors their own life and experiences of childhood. I continue to tackle topics such as mental health, child abuse and the refugee crisis, to address and confront people’s fears. It is too heavy for some, as these are subjects people don’t like to talk about. However, I always try to find beauty, even in the most challenging aspects of life.

Yes, She Did Rise Again (©Lize Kruger)

Transparency (©Lize Kruger)

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GHT TRAGIC LOSS... In 2008, my son took his own life. When something like that happens, you go for therapy and try everything under the sun to try and keep your sanity and to function. I still had to be there for my daughters, but no language can address the grief, as it’s too big. I put my brushes down and spent ten years away from art. Having moved to Horsham in 2014, I accepted a commission from the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall for 2018. On the day I started painting, I spotted a robin on the chair outside my studio. He sat there every day, watching me work. When I first visited the lost gardens a few months later, a robin followed me around and now I feel a special connection with this bird. I know it’s

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Prime Victim (©Lize Kruger)

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strange, but it felt like my son was supporting me. The exhibition was entitled, ‘Don’t Come Here to Sleep or Slumber’, which was etched into the garden wall in 1914. One of my paintings for the exhibition, The Lost Ones, pays homage to the nine men from the gardens who died in the Great War. Initially, I felt like an impostor, as who was I to be given this honour? But then I visited Ypres in Belgium and saw the graves of the fallen and it struck me how young so many of the soldiers were. Then

I felt a connection, as my son was fighting his own personal war with depression, and he too lost his battle.

MULTI LAYERS... I have developed a distinctive, three-dimensional style. The advancement of digital technology has presented new tools for expression. I combine modern methods with traditional painting to create multi-layered work. Adding layers to a painting digitally,

using Procreate software to combine photography, textures, materials and even text and poetry, takes me on surprising journeys of discovery. The accidental elements that occur through the superimposing process often point me in a new direction and I love the challenge that presents, as it pushes me out of my comfort zone. When something isn’t working, I can put the subject in a different environment and see if the piece speaks to me.

“Caravaggio used darkness contrasted with bursts of light, and that effect inspires my work.” Lize Kruger

STARK CONTRAST Perhaps the piece that attracts the most attention is Prime Victim. I was working from a photograph of a Syrian mother stepping out the ruins of an exploded building, cradling a baby. The background was too busy and the story was all there in the two figures. Great masters like Caravaggio used darkness contrasted with bursts of light, and that effect inspired this work. After painting the figures, I superimposed lace over the top, then added spontaneous splashes of paint and a mesh effect too, like the fencing at refugee camps. When working with digital layers, there’s a constant communication between me and the work. I was surprised by the impact of the lace, as it gave an elegance and delicacy to the mother and child, in contrast to the darkness.

A Collaboration - Sweet Remembrance (©Lize Kruger)

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Lize Kruger (©AAH/Alan Wright)

“If you measure success solely by awards and accolades, you are going to be in for a lot of pain.”

HUMBLING CAREER Since lockdown, I feel I have been creating the best work of my career. For 12 years, following our loss, I felt like an alien. It’s been almost an out of body experience, in that you pretend to be okay, but you’re wearing a metaphorical mask. In lockdown, everyone was wearing their own mask and I felt as if we were all on the same page.

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There has been a positive response to my recent output. I received a Collector’s Vision International Art Award and exhibited in the Florence Biennale, the We Contemporary Art Show in Vienna and was invited to participate in the Segnalati Exhibition in Budapest. Because of COVID, many galleries have moved online, so your exposure is immediately international. Not only does that help reduce my carbon footprint, as I’m no longer shipping paintings around the world, but the style of my work does lend itself to digital screens. I now call myself an inter-disciplinary artist, because I combine many elements in a contemporary style. My current work often has a warped, haunted effect, with figures and elements manipulated and distorted. But I couldn’t tell you which direction I’ll head next or if people will like it. You’re always evolving as an artist, but if you measure success solely by awards and accolades, you are going to be in for a lot of pain. It’s a career that keeps you humble and as an artist, you can never say you’ve “arrived”. There is no such thing!

INTERVIEW: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT (SUBMITTED ART PHOTOS BY LIZE KRUGER) Further information: www.lizekrugerfineart.com lizekrugerstudio lizekrugerfineart

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HELPING HANDS Andrew and Alison Edwards fundraising in Horsham’s Carfax, as one of the Searle family’s steam buses passes (©AAH/Alan Wright)

ROTARY CLUB STILL MAKING A DIFFERENCE AFTER NEARLY 100 YEARS The Rotary Club of Horsham was founded in 1923 and continues to make a positive impact on the local community. As well as helping to organise large-scale events such as Funday Sunday, the Rotary is behind many popular town centre activities such as the Pancake Races, Trick or Treat Trails and Children in Need fundraisers. On December 11, Rotary members were collecting for good causes with the Santa Steam Bus, run with the help of the Searles, a local family with its own private collection of stream engines. The Horsham branch is one of about 1,700 Rotary clubs in the UK and Ireland, built on the principles of fellowship among members of the business community. Around the world, Rotary’s work ranges from fighting disease to protecting the environment, with the organisation playing a vital role in eradicating polio. However, each individual club supports many local good causes too.

Andrew Edwards, who heads the Community Service group, said: “I first joined Rotary in 2003 in Wiltshire, where I lived at the time. It provided me with an ideal opportunity to get to know people, as I was new to the area. When I transferred to West Sussex, I the first thing I did was look for a local Rotary club as it connects you to a group of people that you can socialise with.” “As well as our social get-togethers and meetings, part of my role is to organise community events. I worked with the late John le Rossignol, who was a larger-thanlife character and very well connected locally. He was pivotal to launching events like Funday Sunday and Set4Success, as he had a way of getting people on board and empowering them to make things happen. Of course, they’re big shoes to fill, made harder by the fact that it’s been difficult to hold events in the past two years.”

Mario Sarlo fundraising in the Carfax (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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The Rotary Club is well connected, with current President Dave Smith able to convince his good friend Father Christmas to step aboard the Steam Bus...

“However, the Trick-or-Treat Trail continues to do very well and the public are supportive of our Children in Need collections with Pudsey too. As well as the Steam Bus Rides, we sent Santa out on his sleigh in the run-up to Christmas, collecting for local families in need, helping them buy food or even presents for children.”

Changing Rotary Rotary Clubs often comprise current or retired members of the local business community, with an element of networking to the group’s social events. Women were only permitted to join in 1989 and because of this, it has taken time to shake off a reputation as an old boys’ club. However, there is a growing contingent of female members in Horsham, and in recent years they have occupied key roles, including Club President.

Dr Sabani Mukherjee, a Consultant Radiologist for the NHS before her retirement, moved to the area in 2020 after 48 years in Manchester. Inspired by her father, who worked as a Doctor in a poor region of India and was known for putting the needs of his community before personal wealth, Sabina joined Soroptimist International, the women's equivalent of Rotary International, which has provided a global voice for women since 1921. When she moved to Horsham, she joined Rotary with her husband, who worked as a GP for 40 years. Sabina said: “When my husband first joined, Rotary didn’t accept female members, so I joined the Soroptimists. I was also a magistrate and trustee for a domestic violence advisory group. I like helping people and raising money for good causes, so when we moved here, I looked for another group. In all honesty, I would have stayed with the Soroptimists if there was a local club, but the Rotary

Les Searle (the fourth Les in the Searle family) gives up his time to drive one of the family’s steam engines around the town to support the Rotary Club of Horsham. This Foden C-Type steam wagon from 1922 was built to carry Foden’s Royal Brass Band (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Club have been very welcoming and even in these challenging times we’ve held social events, such as the car treasure hunt.” “Maybe Rotary has been a bit of an old boys’ club in the past, in the same way the Soroptimists was an old girls’ club. But there has been a change and perhaps in another decade, it will be closer to a 50-50 split!”

Worldwide Aims As part of Rotary International, the Horsham Club is involved in many initiatives, supporting Rotary’s global mission to promote peace and goodwill. As well as its highly successful programme to eradicate polio, it sends shoebox parcels and food boxes to poverty stricken regions, or those affected by natural disasters. Locally, Rotary supports a variety of organisations such as the Phoenix Stroke Club in Horsham and local branches of the YMCA and Age UK, with donations or assistance, often liaising with businesses to provide expertise. The Making a Difference campaign is a wide-ranging project that assists people in many ways, from providing washing machines for elderly or vulnerable people to sourcing Christmas presents for families in need. Much of this work is carried out in partnership with local authorities and organisations such as West Sussex County Council, Horsham District Council and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

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On the social side, Rotary hold regular meetings (usually at Roffey Park, with a meal and guest speaker) and enjoy nights out, such as bowling or even ice skating at The Rec. Recently, members teamed up with the Horsham Hospital League of Friends to clear the central garden.

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Jane Grainger has been with Rotary for eight years and also volunteers at the Phoenix Stroke Club. Jean said: “I love being involved with Phoenix, but joined Rotary as it offers more on the social side. We watch films, meet for coffee or meals out, and you get to know people you wouldn’t have otherwise met. It’s also a great opportunity to get to know the town, because of the range of events Rotary is involved in. We’re a happy group and I love what Rotary entails, but we

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need some new faces. A lot of Rotary clubs as well as those from similar organisations have disappeared, and the reality is we’re all getting older, so it needs others to step up and serve the community, giving as much time as they can afford.”

Greater Need But will the next generation take over the reins? A Young Rotary group for men and women aged 25 – 40, failed to gain momentum in Horsham, as the organisation struggled to attract members. Dave Smith, current President, joined Rotary in 2010,

having been roped in by his friend and neighbour John le Rossignol. He said: “Rotary has changed over the last decade and that is reflected in society. I think there's less desire for people to get involved in their community and those who do express an interest can lack the drive and commitment of some of the older members.” “As a community, we’re happy to put money into a bucket and support fundraising. But when it comes to getting feet on the ground, finding people is more difficult. I hear talk about people having busier lives these days, but my wife and I both worked hard and raised a family, as did most Rotarians. There’s

a lethargy that wasn’t there before. That might sound harsh, but it’s there, yet possibly the need to get out and help people is greater than ever.”

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT (EXCEPT WHERE CREDITED)

Further information For details about joining the club, email: secretary@horshamrotary.org.uk www.rotary.org/en RotaryClubofHorsham 43 53

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Does Legislation Meet the Needs of Modern Families? Claire Carberry, Private Client Solicitor, looks at the ever evolving family structure and whether legislation has kept pace with the changes to the way we live together. New research published by the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), the global professional association for practitioners advising families across generations, has highlighted a significant increase in ‘blended families’. Large numbers of advisers had seen an increase in multijurisdictional families; cohabiting families; and mixed-ethnicity families. More than half had seen an increase in same-sex relationships and non-biological children in the families they advise.

concept of the traditional domestic family structure. Co-habitees still have little in the way of protection and the legal definitions of children and other family members are both inconsistent and discriminatory. In addition, those families with international elements often struggle to reconcile the legal and cultural differences across jurisdictions. It’s dangerous to assume that the law has moved on in the same way.

These findings are perhaps not surprising as ‘traditional’ family structures have become less common. Even a quick glance at my own wider family shows step-children, foster children, cross-border and same-sex relationships, previously-unheardof children, co-habitees and, sadly, warring factions.

Planning is vital – even where, arguably, the family is not particularly wealthy. No-one has a magic wand that makes everyone happy. However, acknowledging complex and difficult family structures and relationships can help minimise the risk of conflict in the future. Clear, early, open and ongoing communication and advice from a variety of advisers can help iron out potential issues and provide a structure should conflict arise.

Much of our legislation, however, still follows and upholds the

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and will need their own ‘solutions’. As the legislation shows, one size certainly does not fit all. What you want might not be what you need and a little time and advice now may help avoid more costs and complexity in the future. Hopefully it will also keep your family together, regardless of its structure.

Much of our legislation follows and upholds the concept of the traditional domestic family structure. If you have a complex family and would like to plan for the future to ensure that your loved ones are protected, please get in touch with us. Our experienced team of Private Client Solicitors will guide you through Estate Planning which can include lifetime gifting, tax advice, asset protection and planning for later life and death. We advise individuals in both short term and long term planning and try to help you plan and manage your assets throughout your life, with the greatest amount of flexibility. Please visit https://www.step.org/researchreports/modern-families to download a copy of the STEP research report ‘Meeting the Needs of Modern Families’.

AFRICAN ADVENTURE

LOCAL BUSINESS MALULU WORKING WITH KENYAN CRAFTSPEOPLE Inspired by her parents’ stories, Louise Edwards travelled extensively in Africa, leading to a partnership with skilled artisans in Kenya. Now through her business, Malulu, Louise designs luxury dog collars, hand-made by craftspeople four thousand miles away. Louise tells her story…

I have always had a fascination with Africa. My mother is Danish and my father British, but they met in Kitale in Kenya, where he worked as a civil servant. They had many wonderful years before moving to the UK and I grew up hearing these wild, exciting stories about their safari adventures. After finished my Law degree, I spent two months travelling from South Africa to Kenya and it was an incredible experience. I had a strong desire to see even more of the continent, so volunteered for a charity working with deaf and disabled people in southern Tanzania. I returned to Tanzania the following year and also spent time working with craftspeople in Kenya. People often associate Africa

with poverty, but they are extremely skilled artisans and when I returned to the UK, I was determined to establish a business link with craft organisations in east Africa. I visited Zinj Design, in the village of Takaungu on the Kenyan coast, which employs people to make a range of environmentally-friendly beaded products. I fell in love with their hand-made dog collars, in particular. The company offers training, fair pay and sustainable employment for the artisans, which in turn supports the local economy. Women in particular have benefitted from taking up what has previously been considered a man’s craft, and are given their own bank account, meaning they can transfer money to support their family. So when it came to starting my own business, I wanted to support these amazing people. Malulu was established in Southwater in 2013, selling luxury dog collars and leads. In my family, we have a tradition of calling people by their middle name, so I’m known as Louise, or Lulu, but my Minnie May shows off the new stars and stripes design (© AAH/Alan Wright)

first name is Mary. So, the two combine for Malulu. We sell dog collars made by Zinj Design, although we’re not the only UK company to do this. However, what we do is create our own designs which are hand-made the same way in Kenya, offering something different to pet owners. Own most common designs include Mombasa Red, Kilifi Blue, Malindi Yellow and a Union Jack design. I recently created two new designs – Stars & Stripes and Zanzibar Gold – and like all our collars and leads, beads are sewn on to robust cow leather, which is then lined with softer goat leather and finished with recycled brass buckles and a beaded charm. Because every bead is hand-stitched, it’s best to have geometric designs, but there is scope to create unique items and commissions.

“Sizes go from the micro collar for a Chihuahua, to a whopper size for a Mastiff or St Bernard.”

We currently have eight designs, with some older collars available at a reduced price. They come in many different shapes and sizes, as every dog is different. We have regular, skinny and lurcher collections, with sizes going from the micro collar for a Chihuahua to a whopper size for a Mastiff or St Bernard. Most of the designs are modelled by my cheeky Patterdale Terrier cross, Minnie-May.

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The supplier ensures there’s a high level of quality control, however Africa’s product safety regulations are not as demanding as those in the UK. So for extra peace of mind, a British laboratory called Intertek tested the products and found them to be durable and long-lasting. It can be difficult to appreciate the time that goes into each collar, so I filmed a video for the website, showing collars being made. We also offer dog leads and dog coats, which are made with woven cotton worn by the Masai

Mara of Kenya as their traditional dress, called the Shuka. Each coat is lined with warm fleece to keep dogs warm in winter. As well as selling online, our products are available in select grooming parlours and independent pet stores. They were also sold in Pop-Up Horsham in West Street in the run-up to Christmas, which was exciting! As well as Malulu, I run Chase Farm Glamping in Southwater. This is a new venture, now on Airbnb with a cottage and shepherds hut, with an airstream available

soon. It’s a beautiful rural location, so do check it out online!

WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT/MALULU Further information: Watch the video and order products at: www.malulu.co.uk MaluluLtd malulultd 59

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RAZZLE DAZZLE

CHRIST’S HOSPITAL STAGES CHICAGO IN NEW-LOOK THEATRE Christ’s Hospital School hosted a dazzling production of the hit musical Chicago on 2 – 4 December. It was the first major school production since the theatre re-opened after extensive refurbishment. The theatre was designed by renowned architect Bill Howell and first opened in December 1975. A refurbishment project began after the 2018 production of West Side Story, but was delayed by COVID. Since then, performances have instead been held in Big School.

Music and the Performing Arts play an important role at Christ’s Hospital, with the biannual senior school production being a highlight for pupils. The cast is comprised predominantly of Grecians (Year 13), Deps (Year 12) and GE (Year 11) pupils and features lavish costumes, professional lighting and even a live band. For the cast members, performing in front of a live audience in the theatre is an experience they will never forget. Ifunanya Obilonu, who played Velma Kelly, joined CH for the Sixth Form and Chicago provided an opportunity for her to make new friends. Ifunanya said: “My mum loves

Christ’s Hospital, as my cousins came here, but I didn’t like the idea of going to a boarding school. I reluctantly attended a residential trip and found it wasn’t all posh, privileged people, like I thought it would be! It was a nice environment and now I’m glad I came here. Most of the pupils have known each other a long time, especially those who started in Second Form (Year 7). Joining as a new Dep, I had to prove myself, because the Drama teachers haven’t seen much of me. I joined the gospel choir and when I performed my devised Drama piece in the summer term, people were surprised by my singing.”

“Ben impressed us with his audition, coming along with a guitar and singing ‘If I Were a Rich Man.’

“When it came to auditioning for Chicago, the process was unusual because of COVID and most of us had to record our audition. Our Drama teachers wanted us to act out dialogue as well as perform a song, which couldn’t be from the musical, as I don’t think they wanted to hear countless versions of ‘All That Jazz’. I sang ‘Love on Top’ by Beyonce and landed the part of Velma, which is a role you dream about!” “ This was my first time performing in a theatre of this stature. It’s nervewracking, because it feels like a professional production, but that’s what makes it so special.”

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In Chicago, the vaudevillian character of Velma clashes with the naïve yet narcissistic Roxie Hart, played by Georgina Catt, also in her Grecian year. Georgie has a different vocal style to her co-lead, having sung with Schola Cantorum, the school’s chapel choir. This contrast led to great chemistry on stage. Both worked with Verity Bramson, Head of Singing, on their vocal performance in the build-up to opening night. Verity said: “I took the principal cast for one-to-one sessions, working on their characters and vocalisations. As well as Velma and Roxie, I helped Zoe Olakanpo as Matron ‘Mama’ Morton, Elliott Hollingsbee as Amos Hart and Ben McGreevy as Billy Flynn. They all have different singing experience; Georgie is lead alto in the chapel choir, while Ben sees himself as more of an actor than a singer. However, he impressed us with his audition, coming along with a guitar and singing ‘If I Were a Rich Man’ from Fiddler on the Roof.” “Some people are great singers but can’t communicate orally, or are brilliant actors but don’t have the confidence to use their voice. What I tried to do is find the middle ground to create more rounded performers, giving them the confidence to act and sing.”

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Competitive deals in uncertain times Hopefully you had a peaceful and safe New Year. Let’s hope 2022 is a better one for all of us. We can’t escape that we’re going to be in a period of uncertainty in the property market for some time to come yet. We’ve seen the Bank Base Rate rise in December and some lenders have also increased rates. Yet, some have also decreased their rate offerings. Lenders have money to lend and it’s a competitive mortgage market. Properties are very much in demand and therefore you will need to have all of your information correct and to hand, from the outset, to arrange the mortgage. You must be transparent with the lender from day one, to save potential delays and requests for further information later down the line. Speed is of the essence. Income and credit-related scrutiny has, quite rightly, been ramped up from a lending perspective in recent times and clients must disclose all relevant financial commitments.

You must be transparent with the lender from day one, to save delays.

Scene Stealer Preparations for the Kander and Ebb musical were far from ideal. Auditions and rehearsals were affected by social distancing restrictions, with the cast only able to meet in year group bubbles. With the cast mainly comprised from three year groups – one of the cast is in Upper Form (Year 10) – piecing the performance together was challenging. Head of Drama Fiona Bardsley worked alongside professional choreographer/dancer Sophia Priolo on the big numbers, but because of restrictions, could

only work with a handful of pupils at a time. So, it was a joyous moment when the cast and crew could finally come together to perform. “There was great excitement leading up to the show,” says Georgie. “I love performing on stage, but it’s been fun watching from the side too. Ben plays Billy Flynn, a hotshot lawyer. When I first saw him singing ‘All I Care About (is Love)’ with the girls shaking feathers all around him, I was so impressed! Kier Churchill is a real scene stealer too. His character, Fred Casely, dies early on, but his

This sounds obvious but we have experienced instances where missed information has caused major delays further down the line and the need for full transparency upfront is greater than ever. An area highlighted by one of our top advisers is that clients often overlook student loans as being a credit commitment, or pension deductions as these are automatically deducted from salaries. Some forgot they had children and others even forgot they were married! These omitted details can affect how lenders calculate their maximum loan borrowing and this can be vastly different depending on the clients’ circumstances, debts, liabilities and so on. Finally, one other key issue starting to come to the forefront is last year’s ‘mortgage payment holidays’. We had one lender recently who allowed a mortgage payment holiday with a client, in writing. The payment holiday finished and the client came to the end of their product term months later. They then approached the existing lender to renew on to a better deal, BUT were declined due to the missed mortgage payments from the agreed mortgage payment holiday! They appealed, but the lender stood their ground. So be wary, some lenders may take this approach and as always, seek professional advice from the outset.

performance is captivating. There were also pupils involved in costume design and helping technicians with lighting and sets. That’s one of the great things about the Drama department; there are many ways you can be a part of the productions.”

Live Music The musical features famous songs including ‘All That Jazz’, ‘Razzle Dazzle’ and the ‘Cell Block Tango’ (He Had it Coming), all brought to life by a live band. The band was made up of professionals both from within the CH community, including visiting music teachers and staff, and professional musicians not affiliated to the school. One of the trumpeters has even performed in the West End production of Chicago. Robert Thompson, Assistant Director of Music, said: “We had one of our own students in the band too, as he is a particularly talented trombonist. But otherwise, the band comprised more experienced musicians, as it’s been very difficult to bring everybody together and perform the music with the vocals and dialogue.” “Unusually, the band was on stage for the show. We normally play from the pit, but Chicago is one musical that works well with the band more central to the production. An awful lot of work goes into every aspect of these shows, from the choreography and lighting to the vocals and music. These musicals take a year to plan and a term to rehearse, putting a lot of pressure on the staff. That’s why we only hold the senior production every two years, which also means you get a fresh group of Sixth Formers involved.”

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Old Blue Actors As it’s a listed building, the theatre hasn’t been radically redesigned, although seats have been reupholstered in a slightly different shade of red! There is however, improved wheelchair access and increased space in the foyer. The theatre also benefits from a smart foyer extension to the rear, while less visible improvements include an infrared system, installed for audience members who are hard of hearing. There have been significant technical improvements too, with more flexibility in terms of stage arrangement, and the introduction of LED lighting, which will significantly reduce running costs. Soon, Christ’s Hospital theatre hopes to open its doors to the public once again, having held many notable music, theatrical and comedy performances prior to the refurbishment and pandemic.

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“I’m sure the pupils are aware how fortunate they are to have such a wonderful theatre.” Fiona Bardsley

Several Old Blues (former pupils) have gone on to enjoy successful acting careers, including Jason Flemyng (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels), Susannah Fielding (This Time with Alan Partridge) and Roger Allam (V for Vendetta/The Thick of It) and Drama scholarships are available for pupils entering the school at Year 9 and Sixth Form. CH provides free or substantially reduced cost places to over 630 of its 900 pupils each year – more than any other independent school in the UK.

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For the Head of Drama, the theatre makes the school an even more enticing opportunity. Fiona said: “It’s such a wonderful performance space - there are many repertory theatre groups that don’t have a venue as nice as this! I’m sure the pupils are aware how fortunate they are and we’re all thankful for the opportunity to use it for lessons and shows again.” “We have talented performers in the cast, of course. But behind the scenes we have people like Reanne Cameron as Deputy

Stage Manager, who proved an unflappable presence in the technical team. The theatre can enhance the skills of pupils in many ways. It’s a wonderful asset for the school and shows like Chicago create life-long memories.” WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS

Further information: To book a place at the Open Morning on 12 March, visit www.christs-hospital.org.uk

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