AAH (All About Horsham) April 2023

News Round-Up

Ben Wilkinson at The Pass awarded Star in Michelin Guide and Sussex Cricket announces new women’s league.

Retail

John Lewis in Horsham reopens after a refurbishment, unveiling new fashion and beauty departments.

Children

Vacalola is an independently-owned shop in the Carfax, offering beautiful shoes and clothing for children.

Community

Woods for Learning is a CIC founded by Gary Marlow, which helps people of all ages gain a sense of outdoor adventure.

Homes & Garden

There’s been an extensive refurbishment at Newbridge Nurseries, with new features including a patisserie.

COVER STORY

The April 2023 cover features Les and Louise Nicholson at the Artisan Bakehouse in Ashurst. We visited the Bakehouse during an ‘Introduction to Baking’ workshop, where six guests were learning the fundamentals of bread-making. That meant Les was often busy leading the workshop, while Louise was preparing drinks and lunch for guests. But we managed to pair them together for this shot at the door, which captures some of the homely and rustic charm of the business. Other cover contenders included Stephen Marshall (New Music Revelations organiser), Raquel Adrados (owner of Vacalola) and Barry Anderson (Managing Director of Mannings Heath Estate).

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49

56

Business

Les and Louise Nicholson at the Artisan Bakehouse in Ashurst offer baking experiences and workshops.

Food & Drink

After refurbishment, Mannings Heath Estate has launched The Vineyard Kitchen and The Wine Lounge.

History

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.

As Horsham marks International Women’s Day, we look back at the town’s role in the suffrage movement. 60

66

Music

New Music Revelations organises gigs for local acts, with the latest being a rock night at The Roffey Club.

Final Word

Simon Machin tells the story of Robert Blatchford, an influential publisher who is buried at Hills Cemetery.

ALL ABOUT AAH MAGAZINE

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Thousands of copies of AAH are also available in our stands at local businesses, clubs and shops. Horsham: Swan Walk (outside M&S), Henry Adams (Carfax), Crates Local (Carfax) Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Rail Station, John Lewis, New House Farm, New Street Butchers, At Home Estate Agents (Carfax), The Holbrook Club, Gwyn’s Bakery (Bishopric)

AAH has introduced another bespoke, spring-loaded stand in the Horsham District. The new stand is placed prominently at Blue Diamond’s Newbridge Nurseries in Broadbridge Heath. Newbridge is featured in this edition, starting on page 34.

Village Stands: Newbridge Nurseries (BBH) CoCos’ Salon & Beeson House (Southwater), Billingshurst

Leisure Centre, Coco’s Salon (Billingshurst) 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), Chanctonbury Leisure Centre and Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington), The Milk Churn (Rudgwick), Meadow Stores (Thakeham), Golden Plaice (Ashington), Rusper Village Stores (Rusper) Supermarkets: Tesco Extra in Broadbridge Heath, Sainsbury’s in Horsham.

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LEAFLETS

Many thanks to Olivia Judd, who has decided to stop her delivery round to focus on her upcoming GCSE exams. The Judd family have been delivering AAH since 2017 and we wish them well for the future!

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NO ELTON?

Notes from the Editor: Can the Coronation Concert Survive?

I’m going to cast back a few years (11, actually) to the 2012 London Olympics, which you’ll remember were the greatest in history.

For all the sporting brilliance on display, the moments I recall most vividly are from the opening ceremony, which has surely never been bettered. Admittedly, it helped that the Queen and James Bond parachuted into the stadium and that David Beckham piloted the Olympic torch to the venue by thrashing an illuminated powerboat along the Thames, but the ceremony had more to offer than that. It was an astonishing depiction of our nation’s history, featuring brilliant engineering, lighting, choreography and music.

A composition which I found particularly moving was performed during the lighting of the cauldron. It featured rhythmic drummers and vocal harmonies, and created a subtle but fitting backdrop to this most symbolic of sporting moments. When a lone choirboy sang the haunting final notes, you could have heard a pin drop.

I loved this piece so much that it was on my iTunes playlist for years. It’s called Caliban’s Dream, a reference to Shakespeare’s The Tempest, and was written by Rick Smith of the electronic group, Underworld. For those who haven’t heard of them, they’re best known for Born Slippy, a dance tune that featured in the film, Trainspotting. I don’t know what inspired Danny Boyle (Creative Director of the Olympic ceremony) to approach Smith and commission new music, but it was an inspired choice and no doubt as the years go by, the music will

secure its legacy while bigger hits of the time are forgotten.

At the time, there was a great deal of secrecy surrounding the opening ceremony. Most of the attention focused instead on the closing ceremony concert. Would Noel and Liam Gallagher reunite? Would all the Spice Girls be there? In the end, Oasis plodded through Wonderwall, Ed Sheeran made his young fans think he’d penned a genuine classic by singing a Pink Floyd song, Queen inevitably played We Will Rock You with Freddie Mercury appearing as a hologram, The Who blasted out My Generation, and Eric Idle sang Always Look on the Bright Side of Life and kept the swearing in. It was fun. Yet despite the stars on show, it didn’t match the brilliance of a choirboy and the bloke who wrote the ‘Lager, Lager, Lager’ song.

Bringing us up to date, a similar scenario may be playing out as we approach the King’s Coronation. I have read many headlines about who will or will not be appearing at the Coronation Concert. Adele, The Spice Girls, Harry Styles and Ed Sheeran are among those who have, reputedly, turned down an invitation. I don’t know who is pushing the agenda and feels the occasion couldn’t pass without the biggest pop stars of the day performing a smattering of their hits, but I’m fairly confident that Charles III himself isn’t pacing the corridors of Buckingham Palace wondering why Elton won’t take his calls.

What you might not have read, however, is that a host of musical commissions are in the

pipeline, all with Royal approval. Six orchestral commissions, five choral commissions and one organ commission are to be specially composed by world-renowned composers. These include a new Coronation Anthem by Andrew Lloyd Webber and a Coronation March by Patrick Doyle, who has written beautiful scores, including Potter Waltz in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Others involved include Nigel Hess (Ladies in Lavender) and Debbie Wiseman (The Glorious Garden).

Andrew Nethsingha, Master of the Choristers at Westminster Abbey, will be overseeing all musical arrangements during the service, and Sir Antonio Pappano, Music Director for the Royal Opera House, will be conducting the Coronation Orchestra. There will also be solo performers by singers including Sir Bryn Terfel, Pretty Yende, and Roderick Williams. Okay, they might not compete with the YouTube hits of Harry Styles, but they’re plenty capable of rising to the occasion. It’s worth remembering that music from the Queen’s early reign remains popular. They might not know who composed it, but is there anyone in the land who couldn’t hum Ronald Binge’s Elizabethan Serenade?

We’re often guilty of focusing on popularity rather than talent, which is something we have in abundance. My hope is that the Coronation will demonstrate this to a worldwide audience in the same way the Olympics did, and give us a sense of pride in our nation, Something that a pop concert in Hyde Park couldn’t really do.

Saying that, if they could get Lionel Richie…

Elton John in Concert

NEWS ROUND-UP

Announcements & Events from across the Horsham District

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Ben Wilkinson at The Pass, at South Lodge Hotel, Lower Beeding, has received a Star in the Michelin Guide, announced on 27 March.

Michelin’s critic wrote: ‘It’s a long way from Keswick to Horsham but, in making the move, the eponymous chef has brought life back to The Pass at South Lodge, one of the finest country house hotels in this part of the world.

Ben Wilkinson is an intelligent and skilful chef who runs a calm, focused kitchen; sit at the

high-topped tables to watch him and his young team prepare and then proudly serve a tasting menu of appealingly understated dishes. The flavours build as the menu progresses, and the suggested wine pairings are the way to go. Affable service adds to the experience.’

The restaurant was also recently recognised with three AA Rosettes. To book, visit: exclusive.co.uk/south-lodge/food/the-pass/

Restaurant Interlude, set within the 240 acre, Grade I listed Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens in Lower Beeding, is also celebrating, having retained its Star for a fourth consecutive year. Michelin’s critic wrote: ‘Both the Executive Chef and the Head Chef hail from South Africa, but the surprise tasting menu keeps its focus firmly on the local area, with produce foraged from the garden or sourced nearby. To book, visit: restaurant-interlude.co.uk

The inaugural Henfield Artisan Market (HAM) will be held in Coopers Way car park, BN5 9EQ, on Sunday 9 April, 10am – 2pm. HAM offers local food and drink, as well as quality crafts, and will be held on the second Sunday of each month. Traders at the first market include Sussex Bee Farm, Cabin Pressure Spirits (pictured above), High Weald Dairy, Calcot Farm Produce, Inky Kat Studio, Olives and Things, Joe’s Chilli Sauce and Cherryonthetop. HAM is a non-profit initiative from Henfield Community Partnership, with support from Horsham District Council.

Horsham celebrates the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6 May and over the Bank Holiday weekend. Activities include a small funfair in Horsham Park on 5 – 8 May, big band sounds in the park and a Street Party on Sunday 7 May, with live music, street food and royal-themed entertainment. Horsham Museum will also host themed crafts. License fees for street parties have been waived for the weekend and grants of up to £200 have been offered by the Council to support the celebrations.

horsham.gov.uk/coronation

The Shipley Arts Festival returned to the Lackenhurst estate in Brooks Green on 17 March to launch a new series of concerts. The 2023 festival began with the Stradivarius Piano Trio (Maria Marchant, Jonathan Few and Andrew Bernardi, pictured above) performing music by Beethoven, Dvorak and Piazzolla, as well as Nigel Hess’s theme to Ladies in Lavender. The evening, hosted by Lady Louise Burrell, raised funds for Friends of Sussex Hospices. The next concert will be held at Shipley Parish Church on Sunday 30 April. bernardimusicgroup.com

The team at Ben Wilkinson at The Pass (©Exclusive Hotels)

©AAH/Alan Wright

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2016

Jean Delport, Executive Chef at Interlude (©Leonardslee)

Dr Maggie WeirWilson has published a new book, Growing Together: Horsham’s Town Allotments.

The local historian is an allotment holder and has spent much of the last two years researching the history of the town’s allotments, set in the context of the UK’s battle for the right to establish and hold allotments. The book costs £16.99 from Waterstone’s Horsham and online retailers.

Horsham District Council have unveiled a wooden shepherd to look over the flock of carved sheep at The Human Nature Garden in Horsham Park. The shepherd was carved by Pixie Mushrooms Sussex Chainsaw Carvings and funded by grounds maintenance contractors, idverde. The garden’s original shepherd sculpture, Ted, was carved by Dave Lucas of The Woodland Centre Chainsaw Carvers in 2012. Ted had become a little weathered and the new carving takes his place, alongside the original sheep and sheepdog, Treacle.

Muse Developments has submitted a planning application to Horsham District Council as it moves forward with plans to build 260 homes at Larksfield Place, on the former Novartis site. Outline planning consent was granted in 2020, and the 18-acre site will be delivered in partnership with West Sussex County Council and Muse’s sister company, Lovell Partnerships. If the application is successful, homes would be set within tree-lined avenues of blue cedars, with outdoor spaces provided. The 1930s art deco building will be preserved and converted into a collection of apartments. Of

the 260 homes, 91 will be ‘affordable’ and there will be ground floor space for independent traders and community groups.

horshamenterprisepark.co.uk

©Horsham Enterprise Park

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2013

Cisswood House Hotel in Lower Beeding is being used by the government to house refugees. Royal Hotels UK Ltd, The hotel’s management company, announced earlier this year that it had ceased trading and that steps were being taken to place the company into voluntary liquidation. Since the hotel’s sudden closure, it has been procured by the government to house asylum seekers while their needs are assessed. Lower Beeding Parish Council has reported that several families of different nationalities are now staying at Cisswood House.

Horsham District

Council has launched a new round of LEAP small business grant funding for local businesses. Grants of up to £2,000 are available for businesses based in the Horsham District with less than 20 fulltime employees and that are registered with Companies House or HMRC. Applicants must submit a business plan with their application and contribute 25% of the project cost. Funds are being allocated on a first-come first-served basis, so get your application in quickly. Past recipients of LEAP funding include Silvertip Films (pictured, inset), which used the grant to produce demonstration videos, and Shelley’s Venue Decoration, who bought uniforms and blossom trees. horsham.gov.uk/business/business-funding/ leap-business-grants

Gatwick Airport has launched a second round of its call-out for deserving local causes. The Gatwick Foundation Fund has £33,000 available for Sussex projects and is asking groups needing some support to apply by 5pm on Friday 5 May. Every year, there are three rounds of grants totalling £100,000, which are made available to beneficiaries in Sussex. Past recipients include The Posh Club (pictured, inset) sussexgiving.org.uk

There will be a public exhibition concerning the development of a Centre for Horsham Energy Recovery (CHER) at Tanbridge House School, Farthings Hill, Horsham, on Saturday 22 April, 10.30am - 3.30pm. It is an opportunity for the community to find out more about how the facility would work and about Qair, which has taken on the development from Britaniacrest. The proposed incinerator would be located in North Horsham as part of the Mowbray Village. The proposed site could include a 95m stack and receive 230,000 tonnes of waste per year. Construction work is due to begin in the summer. For more details, see advert on the next page. cher.energy

Juan Manuel Blanes (1830–1901) Gaucho on Horseback (detail) oil

©AAH/Toby Phillips

Cisswood House (AAH/Toby Phillips 2012)

©AAH Toby Phillips

ABC Animal Sanctuary at Juggs Lane, West Chiltington, RH20 2JS, hosts a Spring Fair on Sunday 23 April, 12 – 4pm. It is an opportunity to meet the animals and volunteers, with children able to groom a pony. Face painting, music and local stalls. The sanctuary takes in cats, pigs, equines, donkeys, birds, goats and other animals and relies on volunteers and donations to operate. Entry £5 (U14s free). abcanimalsanctuary.co.uk

Parham Races will be held at Parham Racecourse, Hurston Lane, nr Storrington, RH20 2ER, on Saturday 22 April.

The day includes races over fences, as well as the Bellman’s Dog Show, local food and drink produce, falconry, dog and sheep show, terrier racing and CLCH hounds. Picnics allowed. Tickets £13 (children free). Gates open at 10.30am with arena displays from 11am and racing from 12.30pm. parhamraces.com

Sussex Cricket has announced the launch of the Sussex Women’s Premier League for the 2023 season. The inaugural Premier League will comprise Bells Yew Green, Brighton & Hove, Burgess Hill, Eastbourne and Horsham, with a further 10 teams making up the second division.

The structure has been created to continue the growth and development of women and girls’ cricket in Sussex, whilst also aiming to improve the standard and increasing opportunities. The objective will also be to grow the Premier League over the coming years and continue to

T9[ A&H Furnishings Ltd

produce players for Sussex Women, Southern Vipers and Brave and England Women.

Premier League teams will compete in both a 40-over and T20 competition, with Division 2 sides playing in a 30-over format. Hannah Phelps, Horsham Cricket Club Women’s Captain, said: ‘The league has the potential to grow more in the next five to ten years and we are excited to be part of the journey from the start.

For sponsorship opportunities, email gary.wallis-tayler@sussexcricket.co.uk

Handmade Curtains & Soft Furnishings

We specialise in the creation of high quality hand-made soft furnishings including curtains, pelmets, blinds, cushions and re-upholstery.

In addition we supply roller, vertical and venetian blinds as well as all types of curtain tracks, poles and accessories. We offer a complete service from free quotations and advice through to installation.

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The Centre for Horsham Energy Recovery (CHER) is an energy recovery facility that will process around 230,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste every year. It will generate up to 23MW of low carbon electricity and steam, enough energy to power the equivalent of approximately 47,000 homes. Come and meet the CHER team:

Public Exhibition

Saturday 22 April, 10.30am to 3.30pm

Tanbridge House School

Farthings Hill, Guildford Road

Horsham RH12 1SR

Drop in any time during the event to 昀nd out more about the facility. The exhibition will provide a range of information about the project, as well as offer an opportunity to ask questions.

For more information please visit: www.cher.energy

©Sussex Cricket

©ARW Photography

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2014

Pictured: Enchanted Gate curtains by Sara Miller London Green Bird curtains by Sara Miller London

Why wait any longer!

Over the last couple of years, we have all found it difficult to hear and communicate while wearing masks. Anyone with a hearing loss has found it even more of a struggle. Now that we are free of masks, many people are realising that their hearing is not as good as it was. Amazing new technology is now available to enhance hearing like never before. Come in and find out more about Arc AI.

Rechargeable bluetooth technology

Living in isolation can be bad for your health and wellbeing. For many people, poor hearing can lead to isolation and withdrawal. A growing body of evidence points to a connection between hearing health and overall health. People who treat their hearing loss not only hear better, but may lower their risk for serious health issues such as cognitive decline and dementia. Come in and find out about new rechargeable bluetooth hearing technology!

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l New “In-the-canal” hearing aids now available - rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity and best-ever sound quality. Easy to wear with masks.

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Experience a new normal with better hearing. Interest-free credit available over 24 months. Hear now, pay later!

Following the success of its first Charmat method white sparkling wine, House Coren has released a rosé version.

Boco Rosé is 100% Pinot Noir and made from grapes around West Sussex. The sparkling wine, like House Coren’s debut white version, is made using Charmat method, a winemaking process that creates carbon dioxide when pressurised in large steel tanks to give it a natural fizz. Boco Rosé is packed with raspberry and strawberry flavours with a touch of peach and a fresh, floral finish. Recent years have seen English sparkling wine grow in popularity, with the majority made

using the traditional method, where the secondary fermentation is done in the bottle, like how Champagne is created. Boco by House Coren is one of the first Charmat method wines to be made in the UK using English grown grapes. William Coren runs House Coren vineyard in The Haven with his family. They planted 30,000 vines in May 2020 and have used a negociant to create Boco whilst they wait for their grapes to be ready to harvest. The name for the wine was inspired by old Sussex regional dialect, ‘boco’ derived from the French ‘beaucoup’ meaning ‘lots of/more.’ Boco Rosé costs £26 from housecoren.co.uk

Kissingate Brewery at Pole Barn, Church Lane Farm Estate, Lower Beeding, RH13 6LU, hosts a Spring Festival on Saturday 13 May, 11am –8pm. There will be 14 beers as well as cider, rum, gin, Pimm’s, wine and soft drinks, with plenty of food and a BBQ. No tickets required. kissingate.co.uk

Several gardens will open for The National Garden Scheme (NGS) in April and May. They include Fittleworth House and Bignore Park in Pulborough. Warnham Park (pictured) in Robin Hood Lane, Horsham, is open on Saturday 22 April, 11am – 5pm. Admission £6. ngs.org.uk

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2018

Several trees have been planted as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy, a national initiative that formed part of Her Late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee commemorations. The project aims to create a living legacy, with over a million trees planted. A common walnut tree has been planted at Warnham Local Nature Reserve (seen above), while pupils at Ashington CE School have planted an oak tree. The Council provided funds to enable 25 trees to be planted across the District in a project organised by its Parks and Countryside team. In addition, a common lime tree has been planted in Horsham Park to mark the Coronation of King Charles III.

Volunteers from Horsham and Crawley Samaritans have collaborated with Friends of Horsham Park and Horsham District Council on community projects.

Last autumn, they helped plant 13,000 crocus and daffodils in Horsham Park, representing the number of lives lost to suicide every year in the UK. On 1 April, volunteers were due to install two ‘Reflection’ benches, as well as three silver birch trees, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the local branch.

All are invited to enjoy the flower displays at Horsham Horticultural Society’s Spring Show at North Heath Hall, St Mark’s Lane, Horsham, RH12 5PU on Sunday 2 April. Public viewing of the displays is from 2.30 – 3.45pm and there will be plants for sale, refreshments and a grand raffle. Entry by donation.

horshamhorticulturalsociety.co.uk

Here are some of the latest volunteering opportunities available in the Horsham District. Age UK are looking for volunteers to help out at an informal event each month which welcomes older people in ‘a cuppa and a chat’.

Love to Move Steyning, a community group which runs seated exercises to 1950s and 1960s music for those living with long-term conditions or poor mobility, require people to help at sessions.

Guild Care needs volunteers to help in their charity shop in Horsham.

For details of these, or others in the District, contact the Voluntary Sector Support team on (01403) 215191 or email volunteering@horshamdistrict.gov.uk or visit volunteerhorshamdistrict.co.uk

©Horsham District Council

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2016

The Horsham Branch of Parkinson’s UK now hosts Dance to Live Well, a weekly ballet-based exercise class. The class is taught by Michael Kopinski, who enjoyed a successful career as a soloist with Birmingham Royal Ballet before turning to teaching after suffering an injury. He now runs his own ballet school in Maplehurst. Dance can enhance fluidity of movement, develop postural stability and improve balance, which helps people living with Parkinson’s. localsupport.parkinsons.org.uk/provider/ horsham-and-district-branch

The Arts Society

Horsham has announced more Wednesday lectures at the Capitol. Lois

Oliver’s lecture

'Berthe Morisot:

'Une Finesse

Fragonardienne', is on Wednesday 10 May. Caroline Rayman’s talk on 14 June is entitled ‘Three Great Families and Their Gardens: A History of the Astors, the Rothschilds and the Sackville Wests', before Harry Venning lectures on 'The Art of the Cartoonist' on 12 July. Non- members welcome to attend, £8. Lectures commence at 10.45am. theartssociety.org/horsham

Horsham-based Freemasons of the Aviation and Combined Services Lodge has donated £1600 to the Horsham Matters Connecting Café. The cafe is held at St Andrew’s Church, Roffey, every Tuesday from 11.30am – 1.30pm, providing a warm space, hot meals and advice services to the community. Members of the Lodge, which has met in Denne Road, Horsham for many years, are drawn mainly, but not exclusively, from the aviation industry.

©AAH/Toby Phillips 2017

The Loxwood Joust returns on 5 – 6 and 12 – 13 August. In the magical Kingdom of Loxwood, you will be transported back in time to Medieval England. Highlights of the event include jousting and battle re-enactments, the Living History Village and falconry displays. New activities include tablet weaving, illumination and archery academy workshops, alongside old favourites like blacksmithing, sword school, copper bowl making and singing workshops with the Mediaeval Baebes. Experiences and banqueting places must be booked in advance. loxwoodjoust.co.uk

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens in Lower Beeding hosts model boats on the lake on 15 – 16 April, 10am – 3pm. There will be a range of model boats, yachts, steamboats and warships as the Schooner Radio Control Group visit the famous gardens. Further visits are planned once a month until September. Membership or garden entry required. Other events scheduled for April include a half-day Spring photography workshop with landscape photographer Matt Goddard. leonardsleegardens.co.uk

J.S Bach

St John Passion

Conductor – Sean Bui

The Orpheus Sinfonia & Soloists

St. Mary’s Parish Church, Horsham

Saturday 22 April 2023

7.30pm

TICKETS £18 online from www.westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk or on the door

www.westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir holds its spring concert at St Mary's Parish Church, Horsham on 22 April, 7.30pm. Accompanied by the Orpheus Sinfonia and soloists, the choir will be performing the St John Passion, J.S. Bach's dramatic setting of the Passion story, composed in the 18th century. Tickets on the door or from westsussexphilharmonicchoir.org.uk

(See advert on facing page)

As well as hosting a Summer Festival, the Petworth Festival will this year host three events in an earlier ‘June Edition’. Ben Waters, the renowned rhythm and blues musician, will be joined by his band as he performs renditions of classic songs at Midhurst Rother College, on Friday 2 June, 7.30pm. Gyles Brandreth, who has previously appeared at Petworth Literary Week, relates stories about the late Queen at Midhurst Rother College on Saturday 3 June, 11.30am. French pianist Bernard d’Ascoli (pictured above), who at the age of only 19 won the prestigious Barcelona International Piano Competition, performs at the same venue on 3 June, 7.30pm. petworthfestival.org.uk

Separate Star Productions presents a staged reading of the play Red Heaven at St John’s Church, Church Road, Broadbridge Heath, on 29 April, 7.30pm. It tells the funny but uplifting story of two ‘Red Vicars’ who attempt to bring revolution to the conservative Essex town of Thaxted using Morris Dancing. The performance is dedicated to the memory of campaigning journalist Robert Blatchford, who lived in Horsham (see Final Word, page 66). Bar opens at 7pm with interval drinks. Tickets £12 from redheaventickets.eventbrite.com

Billingshurst

Dramatic Society

presents Beck & Calling at the Women’s Hall, Billingshurst on 13 – 15 May, 7.45pm (matinee on 15 May, 2.30pm). This year marks the centenary year of The Women's Hall, which was donated to the village by sisters Edith and Ellen Beck in 1923. Beck and Calling is a homage to the Beck sisters, who were proactive in the cause of women’s suffrage. Ted Gooda’s one-act play focuses on the night of the 1911 Census.

billingshurstdramaticsociety.com

West Sussex Philharmonic Choir (©AAH/Alan Wright 2021)

©Veronique Bon-Dansac

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CELEBRATING LOCAL MARKETS & TRADERS

Horsham town centre will be the venue for a local heat of this year’s national Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Young Traders Market competition.

Organised by Horsham District Council in association with the NMTF and our local market operators, the competition is held in West Street Market Place, Horsham, from 11am on Sunday 30 April 2023. This will be a great event for visitors and traders alike, as we showcase a wide range of up-and-coming businesses.

There will be an exciting array of stalls, street food and entertainment and the best of our local young traders will be competing for a place in the South-East regional finals in London. So, come along and support some of our wonderful young business people this Spring.

The NMTF competition is free to enter but traders must be under the age of 31 on 26 August 2023. If you are, or know an exciting young business, apply to join at: www.nmtf.co.uk/ytm23appform/

CORONATION BAGS

Commemorative Coronation Reusable Markets bags will be available through selected traders at six of the District’s markets from the end of April, while stocks last.

Details of how to get one will be available at each market.

MARKETS INFO

Visit Horsham now carries a wide range of information for visitors looking to shop at the weekly and monthly markets in Horsham District. This includes markets in Horsham town, Billingshurst and Steyning. Explore further at: visithorsham.co.uk/category/markets

JOIN OUR MARKETS

Are you potentially a new market trader? Incentives and special offers are running at six markets in the Horsham District, designed to make trying out a market stall easier and potentially more successful! Dedicated web pages include contact details for the markets, as well as business support and resources available.

horsham.gov.uk/districtmarkets

Carfax Local Markets (Thursdays and Saturdays)

Vegan Market, Piries Place (last Saturday of the month)

Billingshurst Artisan Market (3rd Saturday of the month)

Steyning Farmers Market (1st Saturday of the month)

West Street Entrepreneurs’ Market (Saturdays)

Henfield Artisan Market (Launching 9th April)

MODERN MAKEOVER

John Lewis in Albion Way, Horsham revealed its redesigned layout to customers on Thursday 23 March.

Brown, as well as a range of personalised services including an Elemis beauty treatment room.

A WARM WELCOME AT CATERWAYS

The store has moved from an ‘at home’ format to a one-stop destination for fashion, beauty, tech and home design. This is part of a trial testing a series of new concepts and services for John Lewis customers.

Across 47,000 square feet, shoppers can now discover a curated range of fashion and beauty brands including Barbour, Levis, Whistles and Baukjen, alongside Dior, Jo Malone and Bobbi

l Our family run business that has been running for 40 years.

l We offer a range of services with Senior or Junior Stylists.

l Visit our welcoming salon for hairdressing services at an affordable price.

The store has been designed to better reflect the community it serves and respond to its needs. A host of free services, such as personal styling and nursery and sleep appointments, have been introduced, where customers can tap into the advice from expert partners. The ‘Click and Collect’ service has also been relocated, with operating hours extended to suit customers.

Beauty Department at John Lewis (©AAH/Alan Wright)

On the ground floor, a new kids’ area has been installed to engage and entertain a younger audience while they shop, as John Lewis expands its family offering in the year ahead. The area encompasses an interactive trail, treasure hunt, activity table and a nursery advice service, alongside kids fashion brands including Polarn O Pyret and Pure Baby, as well as John Lewis’ own brand childrenswear collections.

SHOPPING BY SENSE

John Lewis worked with neuroscience experts to help enhance areas of the shop with sensory elements. They applied a method called “sensory prescription’’, where they work in the same way a doctor would prescribe. Working with the in-house team, they looked at store designs and prescribed colours, sounds and scents, tailoring them to the specific areas, looking at what we sell and how we want customers to feel.

One area the John Lewis is applying this concept to is ‘Sleep’. Its experts advise that customers need to spend at least 10–20 minutes on a mattress that they believe is right for them, so the store has created a relaxed environment that is conducive to a great night's sleep. A citrus scent, calming sleep sounds and neutral painted walls have been introduced to enable customers to test and make their mattress decision in the best conditions.

Jack Howe, Branch Manager at John Lewis Horsham, said: ‘We've listened to our local customers and we’re thrilled they can now shop and experience a larger John Lewis offering with more departments. Early customer reaction has been incredibly positive and they love our new look. Our multi-million pound investment provides a major boost for the town centre and will attract more shoppers into the store.’

Further information:

Visit the store at Albion Way, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1LP johnlewis.com/our-shops/horsham

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 22 APRIL

Transformation through education

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CLOTHING AND SHOES IS

PLAY FOR VACALOLA PERFECT FIT

CHILD’S

Vacalola is an independent fashion outlet specialising in shoes and clothes for children. Founded in 2018 by mother-of-two Raquel Adrados, the business has survived some challenging times. Here, Raquel talks about her journey and why she hopes that brighter days lie ahead…

Spanish Acquisition

I used to buy shoes for my children from Jones the Bootmaker in West Street, until they stopped offering a children’s range. After that, I bought them online from Spain, as the quality is excellent and shoes are designed to last. I thought that there must be other parents who would like the same designs, as they’re different to what was available elsewhere in Horsham, so I decided to open a shop.

Window Shopping

I started out in a small unit opposite Horsham Library. It was an unusual location, but I wanted to see if there was much demand. Fortunately, enough people came in for us to steadily grow. We moved to Swan Walk and were there for two years before finding a new location in the Carfax. Some customers have followed us throughout our entire journey.

Loco for Lola

I lived in Spain before settling in Horsham with my family 10 years ago. I travelled a lot when I was younger and gained experience in several industries. I worked for Louis Vuitton and Zara, so know about fashion and merchandising, and also managed budgets for the film and TV industry, which has helped me with financial

aspects of the retail business. I also worked as a teacher in Spain, as I love children. So, opening a clothing store for children combines two of my great passions. Vaca Lola translates as Lola the Cow. There’s a children's song about Lola in Spain, which has since been translated into English. One of my children had a soft toy of a cow when he was little, and I based the company logo on that.

Size Matters

Our clothing range has gradually expanded to what it is now. We cater for new-borns up to about 14 years old, although most of our clothes are for children up to nine, with just a small selection for older children. We go up to size 8 in school shoes, as some boys have big feet. We stock good quality footwear by brands such as

Raquel Adrados, founder of Vacalola (AAH/Alan Wright)

Clothing at Vacalola (AAH/Alan Wright) Dinosaur designs (AAH/Alan Wright) Hatley boots (AAH/Alan Wright)

Raquel Adrados, owner of Vacalola (AAH/Alan Wright)

Petasil, Lelli-Kelly, Go Bananas, Garvalin, Geox, Hummel, Camper and Biomecanics. We also have Froddo, made in Croatia, as they’re eye-catching, affordable and made to last a long time. We always look for quality at the right price.

The Four Seasons

Clothing brands include Mayoral, who come up with bright and fun designs for every season; Emile et Rose, which supplies beautiful outfits and accessories for babies; Hatley, a Canadian

brand that makes excellent and affordable rainwear; and Sarah Louise, who makes traditional dresses that are perfect for special occasions. We always bring in new stock for spring and summer, then again for the autumn and winter seasons.

Size Matters

Running a clothes shop was always going to be challenging, especially as English is not my first language. But we haven’t been very lucky over the past five years. First, we had Brexit. Although

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it was on the horizon from the outset, I hadn’t anticipated the impact it would have on importing from the continent. Then we had Covid! We adapted and increased our online presence thanks to a LEAP grant from Horsham District Council. When it comes to children’s shoes, you really need to measure feet properly and have them try shoes on to find the perfect pair. Obviously, we couldn’t do that in the shop, so focused on internet sales instead. As I couldn’t enter people’s homes, I sometimes left shoes on doorsteps for parents to take inside for their children to try on while I waited!

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Colourful designs (AAH/Alan Wright)

Children’s shoes (AAH/Alan Wright)

Fashionable and durable shoes at Vacalola (AAH/Alan Wright)

Whatever the Weather

In many ways, retail is harder now than it was during Covid. At least then we had help from the government through rate relief, furlough and other support schemes. Although the Council is still very supportive, most of the help has gone, yet footfall in town centres hasn’t returned to how it was pre-pandemic. We have a cost-ofliving crisis too, and people are not always spending in the way they would like to. The weather doesn’t help! We joke about how it always rains in England, but it makes a big difference when the sun shines!

Parental Guidance

After a testing time, we are happy to continue as we are for now, without thinking much about expanding. There is a strong, friendly business community in the Carfax, especially on market days, and it’s great being at the heart of town. The good news is that we have proved we can adapt, and customers know we offer an excellent service. We really do go above and beyond to find what they’re looking for. As a parent, I have first-hand experience and knowledge of the products, as I have chosen them myself, which makes a difference too.

Everyone wants the best for our children and I do my best to find those things and bring them to Horsham.

Words: Ben Morris

Photos: Alan Wright

Further information:

Vacalola at Richmond House, 13 Carfax (opposite entrance to Swan Walk), Horsham. (01403) 900568 vacalola.co.uk

Vacalola in the Carfax, Horsham (AAH/Alan Wright)

Knitted footwear (AAH/Alan Wright)

Smart shoes for school (AAH/Alan Wright)

WILD AT H

WOODS FOR LEARNING INSPIRES ADVENTUROUS YOUNGSTERS

‘Okay, you can all head back to camp now!’ says Gary Marlow. He is stood by his favourite tree, in woodland close to Horsham Rugby Club. He has just explained to a group of children how the tree was split in two when it was struck by lightning, sending most of it crashing down to earth.

The pupils from Moon Hall School in Reigate excitedly scurry off down the path. One self-appointed leader with a makeshift walking stick confidently declares he ‘knows the way’ and leads the rest on a jolly jaunt around a holly bush and into the woods. Five minutes later, the youngsters re-emerge, looking rather pleased with their navigational prowess. That is until they realise they’re back where they started, at the splintered tree.

Gary grins as he points to a green parachute canopy which marks out the Woods for Learning camp. It is no more than 15 metres away in the other direction. And so, the children learn an important lesson. ‘Always make sure you know your bearings!’

GET OFF YOUR PHONE!

Gary Marlow founded Woods for Learning as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2014 to meet a growing need for children to experience life outdoors. He had already established another business, Marlow Sports, helping children to enjoy physical activities. Having made connections with local schools, in particular specialist schools, he launched woodland courses to complement his existing business.

Gary points to a lighting-splintered tree in woods near Horsham Rugby Club (AAH/Alan Wright)

Gary Marlow, Founder of Woods for Learning (AAH/Alan Wright)

Strawberry Fields Tea Rooms

HEART

‘When we started, nobody was doing anything like this locally,’ he said. ‘Of course, other businesses have since formed with their own slant on outdoor learning, and many schools now run their own “forest schools” programme, which is fantastic. Children spend a lot of time on computers and mobile phones, and there are fewer opportunities for them to play outside, due to busier roads and streets. Most of the woodland that remains is in private hands now too.’

‘So, our concept was to offer child-centred learning in the woods, catering for school groups, private parties, families and holiday clubs. We teach survival skills, such as how to build a shelter with natural materials, tie knots and make a camp fire. Some of the skills are similar to those used by well-known

adventurers and survivalists like Ray Mears and Bear Grylls, who most children are familiar with. We also teach people how to look after their natural environment. We don’t just name different trees; we explain how they impact our lives and the flora, fauna and insects around them. Armed with such knowledge, children build a picture of the eco-system.’

Gary with hoof fungus off a birch tree (AAH/Alan Wright)

DON’T FORGET YOUR TOILET?

Woods for Learning courses were initially held in the ancient woodlands at Leechpool and Owlbeech in Horsham. Both sites are managed by Horsham District Council, but some of the most popular parts of the woods are now closed to the public, in order to protect the habitat of several bird species. While searching for a new venue, Gary spotted an opportunity in another part of St Leonard’s Forest, along Hammerpond Road at Coolhurst.

He said: ‘My daughter plays football for Roffey Robins and her team trains at Horsham Rugby Club. There is an eight-acre area of woodland next to the clubhouse, and through the Land Registry I discovered it was owned by the club. I arranged a meeting with Horsham RFC’s Chairman and presented a proposal to use it as a base for Woods for Learning. The club was delighted that the woods would be used to help educate young people.’

‘It is the perfect size, as there’s space for us to move the camp around to allow areas to naturally recover, yet not so big that we can’t give ample opportunity for children and adults to explore and get a taste for adventure. We can also do things that we couldn't at the Councilmanaged sites. If a tree presents a hazard, we can act quickly, rather than having to follow local authority channels that can cause delays. Another benefit is that we don’t need to assemble and disassemble camp every day.

Pupils learn bushcraft skills at camp (AAH/Alan Wright)

Around the campfire (AAH/Alan Wright)

Enjoying life outdoors (AAH/Alan Wright)

Once, we had 60 primary school pupils arriving for a course on a Monday morning, but overnight, someone stole our portable toilet! We had to rush around for a replacement! Fortunately, the rugby club has great facilities, as well as easy access and parking. The site also opens up opportunities for overnight camps and bushcraft events. There’s something magical about spending an evening around a campfire, drinking hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows, and we could possibly offer stargazing and night walks, with a focus on nocturnal creatures.’

TIK TOK GENERATION

Gary’s unique selling point is the experience he has of working with young people, particularly those with physical, sensory or learning difficulties. Being close to nature – listening for birds, touching plants and trees, identifying fungi, learning survival skills – inspires most children. But for those who miss electronic gizmos, Gary has incorporated computer games and social media into courses.

He said: ‘A few years ago, many primary pupils were hooked on Minecraft. I adapted elements of the game for the outdoor world, developing a points system for finding certain materials and precious metals or for learning survival skills. The current trend is TikTok and we’re looking at fun ways to use that too. You can't get away from the fact that children have phones and use them a lot, so we embrace that in a way that increases their engagement and participation.’

Children develop a taste for adventure (AAH/Alan Wright)

‘By educating the next generation, you might set someone on the road to making a difference.’

‘As well as having vast experience of working with young people myself, I have brought in others who communicate well with children. One young person with autism first started coming to courses when he was seven. He is now a teenager and loves helping run the courses, passing on his enthusiasm to others.’

SAVING THE PLANET!

Adults can enjoy the outdoor courses too. Woods for Learning has hosted foraging and cooking evenings for grown-ups, providing a different kind of team-building exercise that promotes wellbeing amongst colleagues.

Gary has also formed partnerships with other businesses to offer workshops and programmes. These have included summer camps at Wakehurst Kew Gardens, while some of his ideas are inspiring a community-led project at Borde Hill Gardens, Haywards Heath. He hopes that by increasing awareness of our natural world, he can inspire positive change.

‘Every child knows we are destroying the planet and that we need to do more for our natural environment,’ said Gary. ‘If you educate the next generation from a young age, you might set someone on the road to making a big difference in the future. Maybe these children will be the

ones who finally start reversing current trends, which are contributing to and accelerating climate change, and put us all on a better path.’

Words: Ben Morris

Photos: Alan Wright

Further information:

For details of future courses and camps, visit woodsforlearning.com woodsforlearning

woods4learning

Moon Hill Pupils explore the woodland (AAH/Alan Wright)

Learning bushcraft skills (AAH/Alan Wright)

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:

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

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

DOORS

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

North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RD Tel: (01403) 211133 Email: mail@shawsglass.co.uk

F R O M H U M B L E NURSERIES TO LO CA L J E W E L

NEWBRIDGE NURSERIES, BROADBRIDGE HEATH

CREATIVE DESIGN

The final touches are being made to a multi-million-pound refurbishment project at Newbridge Nurseries. There has been a significant expansion of the garden centre, owned by the Blue Diamond Group, including the introduction of new departments and more plants than ever before.

Steve Nicholls, who has been General Manager for 28 years, said: ‘We now have about 4600m² of covered retail space, with a creative new layout. Visitors will find a vastly-improved range of home and kitchenware, children’s toys and garden furniture, and an expanded fashion department. We also have an extensive range of food and drinks, a garden care department that has doubled in size, and many more plants for the home and garden.’

‘This has largely been achieved by transforming the yard behind the Garden Centre, demolishing a bungalow that had long been on site, and using space more efficiently. We have even been able to significantly increase the number of parking bays for customers to over 300.’

Pictured: Mojgan Schepers, Manager of Kipling’s pâtisserie (©AAH/Alan Wright)

WOW FACTOR

Another feature of the new-look Newbridge Nurseries is a Kipling’s pâtisserie, a signature of Blue Diamond Garden Centres. Stooks Café has operated successfully for many years, serving breakfasts and lunches. However, that used to mean that many customers seeking just a hot drink or a slice of cake would often had to join a long queue. Now, Kipling’s alleviates that pressure.

The pâtisserie is managed by Mojgan Schepers, who has extensive experience in hospitality and high hopes for Kipling’s. ‘Everything we sell is made by our in-house team,’ she said. ‘I have two brilliant pastry chefs working with me and another is being trained, so it’s a busy kitchen. You don’t see many traditional pâtisseries selling eye-catching cakes these days, but as we evolve, I want to introduce even more of a “wow factor”. Although we’ll keep old favourites like Victoria sponge and scones, I love the idea of creating the kind of special treats you see in the window of Parisian pâtisseries.’

Tuesday 9th May 2023

11am - 12.30pm

Skylark House care home are pleased to welcome Graham Powell, who will share insights on recognising the signs of stroke, and how to care for a loved one through their recovery.

Trusted to care.

Fiona Holmes in the hardy plants section (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Kipling’s patisserie and House Plants (©AAH/Alan Wright)

‘We’re seeing a generation of young people who love plants, and want to learn about them.’

GREEN GENERATION

The cakes may look stunning, but arguably an even more visually appealing area of Newbridge Nurseries is the House Plant section, which greets customers as they enter. Beautifully presented and abundant in colour, it’s especially popular with children, who excitedly find animal sculptures concealed amongst tropical orchids and flowering cacti. Newbridge was recently named National House Plant Department of the year at the annual Garden Trade News Awards, confirming its status as one of the best in the country.

Rhona Chambers, House Plants Department Manager, said: ‘There’s a much wider range on offer now and customers ask a lot of questions, as they want to know which plants will suit their home and lifestyle. Weeping figs, spider plants and kentia palms offer year-round greenery, while seasonal varieties offer bursts of colour, which people are always attracted to.’

‘There’s demand for cacti too, as they’re small and easy to manage. Most modern houses are built with tiny gardens, while those living in apartments may not have access to one at all, so house plants are even more vital. What is interesting is that we’re seeing a generation of young people who love plants and want to learn about them. Sharing our knowledge is one of the most satisfying aspects of the job.’

(©AAH/Alan Wright)

FRUITS OF OUR LABOUR

Newbridge Nurseries sells about £3 million worth of plants a year, equating to about a third of its turnover. So, the refurbishment has provided a chance to further extend its bedding and seasonal plant sections, with more hardy plants too.

Since the pandemic, demand for plants has surged, with more of us growing fruit and vegetables too. Fiona Holmes, Hardy Plants Department Manager, said: ‘As we started out as a nursery, we have always stocked a wide selection of bedding plants, and we have loyal customers who have been coming here for decades. People sometimes remark that we’re not a true nursery because of everything else we sell, but our range of plants has never been greater and is among the most extensive in the south of England.'

‘The refurbishment has also allowed us to reorganise the entire Plant Department. There’s more cohesion between vegetables, herbs, soft fruits and fruit trees, so people can easily find what they’re looking for with. Because of the cost of living crisis and occasional shortages at supermarkets, more people are opting to grow their own fruit and vegetables too, and we have everything you need to succeed.’

Rhona Chambers in the house plants section (©AAH/Alan Wright)

DIAMOND GEEZER

The refurbishment project has been possible thanks to owners the Blue Diamond Group, which bought Newbridge Nurseries and Stooks from former owner Nigel Wait in 2014. Nigel took on the nursery in 1995 and transformed its fortunes, with the help of Steve Nicholls as General Manager.

Steve said: ‘I was at Roundstone Garden Centre in Angmering (now Haskins) and knew Nigel, as Roundstone supplied some of his plants. He asked me to join him at Newbridge, which at the time was an old-fashioned, run-down retail nursery with a small turnover. We made ambitious plans for growth and managed to make progress every year. When profits stagnated, we expanded the retail space and then – having survived 18 years without a café – Nigel’s wife, Jane, set up Stooks Café and we made another leap forward.

‘Our range of plants has never been greater

is among the best in the south of England.’

Steve Nicholls, General Manager (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Steve continued: ‘Blue Diamond have come in and have funded changes that were not previously possible, as it’s the UK's most successful garden centre group, with more than 40 sites in the UK and Channel Islands. Our Managing Director, Alan Roper, committed to the refurbishment project soon after he bought Newbridge, and although the project was delayed by Covid, we’re delighted now that work is nearing completion.’

‘It has transformed the centre, and people who haven’t visited for a while are amazed by what they see. We have improved the range across every department, along with extra

parking spaces and additional tills that have cut queuing time. We feel we have an exciting layout and offering, that makes coming here a very pleasant and enjoyable experience.’

WORDS: Ben Morris

PICTURES: Alan Wright

Further information:

Newbridge Nurseries, Billingshurst Road, Broadbridge Heath, RH12 3LN (01403) 272686

Watch a video of the new-look nurseries at: bluediamond.gg/garden-centre/ newbridge-nurseries

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Bathroom products at Newbridge Nurseries (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Outdoor Plants (©AAH/Alan Wright)

RUSTIC CHARM AT THE ARTISAN BAKEHOUSE, ASHURST CRUMB OF COMF

The Artisan Bakehouse presents guests with the opportunity to make beautiful home-made bread in a traditional wood-fired oven.

Husband and wife Les and Louise Nicholson host a variety of workshops at their charming home in rural Ashurst, where guests bake anything from malthouse loaves and sourdoughs to baguettes and bagels. If it sounds a touch continental, that may be because the Nicholsons spent eight years running a cookery school in Souvigné, in the Poitou-Charentes region of southwestern France.

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Louise said: ‘We wanted to escape the rat race, so bought a derelict farmhouse in France and renovated the plot to offer three ‘gites’ or holiday chalets. Our daughter was born there and we had eight fantastic years, hosting cookery courses using an Aga oven, and immersing ourselves in a different way of life. I would have stayed, but Les missed the football, as he’s a passionate Brighton and

Hove Albion supporter! We returned home and nearly took on a restaurant in Steyning, but the deal fell through. That’s when we found the place in Ashurst and fell in love with it.’

‘At the time, there was also a growing movement to support local farmers and producers, so we thought that the Bakehouse could contribute to the Sussex food and drink scene. We had to patiently go through a lengthy planning process in order to create the Bakehouse and offer holiday cottages to guests, but eventually we were ready to launch in 2013.’

SLOWER PACE

While The Artisan Bakehouse doesn’t strictly follow a French method of baking, the business is inspired by the value our neighbours across the Channel place on bread. Louise said: ‘In France, there’s a boulangerie on almost every corner, as bread is made the traditional way

Les Nicholson

across the whole country. Good bread is a way of life. Even tourists adapt and walk into the village every day to buy a baguette or croissants. But in the UK, life runs at a different pace and most people buy mass produced bread that isn’t very healthy. Our aim was to recreate the charm of France, both with the bread and the feel of the place. We could be more commercial and have manicured lawns, with bigger classes where everyone works on stainless-steel rather than wooden worktops. But in doing so, we would lose the soul and magic of the business.’

GO WITH THE GRAIN

The Artisan Bakehouse hosts several courses each week, with guests working at their own bench, with all utensils and ingredients supplied too. Social aspects of the day are important, so courses begin with tea, coffee and home-made cookies, with a cooked meal provided at lunch.

The most popular course is ‘Introduction to Breadmaking’, where groups make focaccia using authentic Italian 00 flour, baguettes with French T55 flour, spelt rolls and a regular seeded or walnut organic white artisan loaf. They are baked in a wood-fired or Rofco bakers’ oven, and guests take home the breads they make.

Louise says: ‘This course is ideal for beginners and those who have tried bread-making before but want a better understanding of the processes. They learn about various wheats and

Traditional Values...

...Modern Approach

FORT

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.

Trainee Upholsterer / Workshop Assistant required

We require a hardworking, self-motivated person who is willing to learn a hands-on trade. Must be fit, able to lift heavy furniture and willing to muck in with everyday workshop tasks. Own transport preferred, not essential. For further details, please call us or email your CV to heritage.04@outlook.com

Traditional Methods

Free Estimates

at The Artisan Bakehouse (©AAH/Alan Wright)

‘We could be more commercial, but we would lose the soul and magic of the business.’

Louise Nicholson (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Introduction to Bread Making course

flours, yeasts, kneading techniques, and how to shape and proof the dough. All bread is made the traditional way, simply with water, highquality flour and yeast, or salt with sourdoughs. Another popular workshop is ‘Glorious Grains’, where we make wholemeal soda bread, malthouse walnut bread, raisin rye and a multigrain seeded bread. Wholemeal requires different kneading techniques and hydration levels, and dense bread is a common occurrence. We explain the reasons for this and how to avoid it, and also organise a visit from a local farmer who demonstrates milling from the grain.’

SOURDOUGH SCIENCE

As demand has grown, new workshops have been introduced including ‘Bagels, Pretzels and Grissini’ and ‘Mediterranean Breads’, where guests make Greek pittas, Lebanese Maneesh and Fougasse Provencale.

The ‘Pastry Making’ course features tasty tarts and profiteroles made with shortcrust, choux and puff pastries, while those on the ‘Weekend of Viennoiserie, Pastries and Enriched Doughs’ workshop make brioche, cinnamon rolls,

croissants and pain au chocolat. An ‘Artisan Chocolate Masterclass’ is run in partnership with Mike Noble, Head Chocolatier at Noble and Stace. Here, guests can make truffles and ganache fillings.

Les said: ‘The introduction course is fun and a good starting point. The specialist workshops can attract “bread heads” who want to delve deeper into the science behind different types of bread. We explain why certain things happen to the dough and what to do when things go awry.’

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

‘We also have sourdough courses, including a two-day workshop where we make flavoured rye, white sourdough, Levain de campagne and a seeded loaf. For these courses, we welcome Emmanuel Hadjiandreou, one of the most renowned sourdough bakers in the world. He has worked for Gordon Ramsay, established artisan bakeries and written several books, so his courses are always popular.’

WHO’S STAR BAKER?

TV programmes like The Great British Bake Off have also contributed to the growing demand for food-focused experiences. It is only natural that guests are often keen to recreate the same sense of community seen on such shows.

Les said: ‘We don’t take any more than eight on a course, so it’s always informal and relaxed. Some people may have been looking forward to it for weeks, while others enter with trepidation. They might have been bought a gift voucher and aren’t sure they’ll enjoy it. It can be quiet in the morning, especially when everyone is attending alone, but slowly they get to know each other and develop a bond. They become more enthused and supportive, especially when the bread comes out of the oven. Someone always asks, “Who’s Star Baker, then?”’

‘We welcome people of all ages, from teenagers to those in their 70s. Every course has its own dynamic and that’s why we enjoy it, as we love working with people. What is great is that you don’t need to be especially skilled in the kitchen to come along. You just need to follow a few basic skills and instructions and enjoy yourself. We have an ‘Exclusive Baking Club’ Facebook page too and people often post pictures of things they have baked later at home. This not only helps us to keep in touch with them, but also helps develop friendships. We’ve created a community where people can share tips, which is wonderful as the aim was always to encourage people to bake and enjoy good bread.’

Workshops create a sense of community (©AAH/Alan Wright)

WARM AND COSY

The business celebrates its 10th anniversary this April, having got through difficult times during Covid. When they couldn’t run courses, Les and Louise instead supplied flour to the community, and hosted events in an outdoor marquee when possible. A business grant allowed them to create professionally-filmed and edited online masterclasses, which have been well received too.

Post-pandemic, demand for courses has returned and new classes are being added all the time, including ‘Christmas Breads’ in November. Les said: ‘There is a laid-back atmosphere, yet everything we do is professional. Sometimes places can feel cold and clinical, but the Bakehouse feels warm and cosy, as it’s a representation of our family. When you see people coming back time and time again, you know they’ve had a good experience. It has been fun for us too, allowing us to meet fantastic people and helping them develop skills for life.’

WORDS: Ben Morris

PICTURES: Alan Wright

Further information:

For details of future workshops, visit theartisanbakehouse.com

TheArtisanBakehouse

Les Nicholson at the Bakehouse (©AAH/Alan Wright)

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VINE & DINE

NEW RESTAURANT AND WINE LOUNGE AT MANNINGS HEATH

A new restaurant and wine lounge will be officially launched at the Mannings Heath Estate this April.

The Vineyard Kitchen and The Wine Lounge have been introduced to broaden the estate’s appeal beyond that of golf members and to make it more inclusive.

Managing Director Barry Anderson said: ‘The challenge we have is conveying to the wider public that everyone is welcome here. For more than a century, the venue has been inextricably linked to golf and perceptions don’t change overnight. We have tried to be accessible, but non-members never felt completely comfortable coming here, as the first thing they saw when they walked in was an Honours Board and club shop. Those who did order something to eat or afternoon tea would occasionally find themselves sharing the space with golfers. It wasn’t fair on anyone, so we have addressed that through an extensive refurbishment, creating a clearer definition of the space.’

VINEYARD KITCHEN

Anyone visiting the Vineyard Kitchen will now find that the Honours Boards has indeed been relocated, and no golf trolleys are parked in the entrance hall! One feature that has survived the refurbishment is a propellor from a Halifax bomber, which crashed on the 14th green during the Second World War. It is now surrounded by colourful paintings and photography, as well as striking sculptures by Anton Smit, whose work is also displayed at Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens. The dining area offers fantastic views of the golf course, but it no longer feels like a clubhouse.

The Vineyard has a lunch menu from Wednesdays to Saturdays, with last orders at 3pm, and roast dinner is served on Sundays. Diners can pick from a selection of small plates including grilled beef with rice noodles, tuna Niçoise, chicken bowl with guacamole, pappardelle with Tuscan sauce, and chicken ballotine with butternut puree. Dishes are individually priced, although sharing is encouraged, with three costing £25.

The Tasting Menu at the Wine Lounge, Mannings Heath Estate (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Chicken ballotine, serrano, butternut puree, exotic mushrooms (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Roast Beef, carrot puree, baby carrots, pomme dauphine (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Barry Anderson, General Manager at Mannings Heath Estate (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Emma Hodges, Wine Experience and Sales Manager, said: ‘We offer good food done well, and there’s a strong focus on fresh, local produce. We have a flexible approach, so guests can share several dishes, order just one or two, or perhaps enjoy one of our desserts. This is a great place for families to visit, as we’re child and dog friendly. On Sundays, we see lots of people walking along the rural footpaths nearby, like at Roosthole, and we’d like to see some more of them coming here for a fantastic roast. We have beautiful views from the restaurant, especially in summer when we can open up the outside terrace.’

THE WINE LOUNGE

One reason behind the changes is the growing importance of wine to the Mannings Heath Estate. The Wine Lounge, in a room previously occupied by the pro shop, has a relaxed décor, with sofas providing the comfort and Champagne riddling racks giving an aura of authenticity. The room can be used to host a wide range of tastings and events, as well as private functions and occasions.

The Lounge offers a tasting menu (£30pp) with four small dishes, each paired with wines from the Benguela Cove Estate. The dishes include

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Asian tuna salad, home smoked fish (below), chicken ballotine and roast beef, paired with Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Collage and Cabernet Sauvignon, respectively.

The Wine Lounge at Mannings Heath Estate (©AAH/Alan Wright)

(AAH/Alan Wright)

Benguela Cove is a South African wine estate owned by Penny Streeter. It is where she developed her passion for winemaking, before buying Mannings Heath Golf Club (as it was called) and later Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens.

Barry explains: ‘Having established Benguela Cove as a market leader in South Africa, Penny and head winemaker Johann Fourie talked about growing the brand in the UK. They also followed the burgeoning sparkling wine industry in this country with interest, and this inspired Penny to find an ideal location to plant vines.

Mannings Heath was perfect. It not only had a great golf course, but had potential for a vineyard and also presented opportunities to sell Benguela Cove wines too.’

‘So, those are the wines that we offer here. We host a wide range of wine tasting experiences and try to make it as unpretentious as possible. Sometimes, it can be quite intimidating, but we want our tastings and tours to be accessible to all, so those who are new to wine can have a good time too.’

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Tasting Menu at The Wine Lounge (AAH/Alan Wright)

A GOOD YEAR

Following the recent planting of vines in a small area next to the house, there are now 37 acres of the Mannings Heath Estate devoted to viticulture. Confusing matters slightly, these vines are to be used to make Leonardslee branded wine. The first release of English sparkling wine produced from the estate will be released in June 2024. Some 50,000 bottles are now in the fermentation stages, from three different vintages, starting in 2020. It is hoped that there a new winery can be built at Mannings Heath to serve as a base for production, as well as

wine tasting tours. However, the proposals have yet to be granted planning consent.

Barry said: ‘It is important to make the distinction between the two wine estates. The Wine Lounge is the UK home of Benguela Cove wines, whereas the home of our UK wine will be Leonardslee, at least until we can build a winery. There are only four acres of vines planted at Leonardslee, so the vast majority of the wine will come from the vineyards at Mannings Heath. However, as Leonardslee is such a historic English brand, it makes sense that it should be the name of our UK sparkling wine.’

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Kelly Pietersen, Head Chef at The Vineyard Kitchen and Asian tuna salad on the tasting menu (©AAH/Alan Wright)

‘We’re all very excited about the release of the first bottles next year, especially as the 2020 and 2022 vintages were exceptional.’

THE SPIKE BAR

So, what of the golfers? They have headed downstairs, where members have the Spike Bar all to themselves. It can cater for up to 120 people, with a bar and menu of its own, including hot snacks and home-made pizza.

Barry said: ‘We don’t want our members to feel like second-class citizens, so we have listened to what they wanted. They have a bar open

seven days a week, with good food and easy access to changing rooms. We have kept the Honours Board and pro shop, and built a new cabinet for club trophies. Everyone appreciates the need for compromise. The golfers don’t really want wedding parties in their bar, and brides using this as their wedding venue certainly don’t want to arrive to see golf bags outside the entrance. Those issues have now been resolved.

‘We can now move forward, but we still have to work hard to attract people, especially as some people don’t realise just how close to Horsham we are! We want to become a destination venue,

but to succeed, we must alter perceptions and convince people that this is a place where they will feel comfortable, have a good time and want to return to.’

WORDS: BEN MORRIS

PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information: For more details see the advert opposite or visit manningsheath.com

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The Vineyard Kitchen (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Sofas next to the bar (©AAH/Alan Wright)

CORPS STRENGTH

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY HONOURS TOWN’S QUI VIVE CORPS

International Women’s Day was celebrated on Wednesday 8 March. In Horsham, women waved placards reading ‘Secure your vote!’ as they honoured the work of the town’s Qui Vive Corps, who met and campaigned for women’s right to vote at No.60 West Street, a unit now used as part of Cotswold Outdoor.

March’s event was organised by the Horsham Labour Party, with support from the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), and Amnesty.

Time to clean the gutters?

As we didn’t know much about the Qui Vive Corps in the vast, spiralling ivory towers of AAH headquarters, we asked our friend and local historian Jeremy Knight for his help...

MARCHING ON TOWN

The Qui Vive Corps depot opened on the second floor of 60 West Street in 1913. The suffragette movement was gathering force by this time (Emily Wilding-Davison threw herself under the King’s horse during the Derby on 4 June 1913) but it wouldn’t be until 1918 that women were allowed to vote, and even then it was only women over 30 who met certain conditions.

Originally called the Marchers’ Qui Vive Corps, the organisation was founded in 1912 by Mrs Florence De Fonblanque, following on from the Woman’s March in 1912. The march, from Edinburgh to London, saw six women complete it and at least two became founding members of the Corps. The only notice that still exists about the Corps is a flyer in the collection of Horsham Museum.

The aim was to provide an umbrella-type organisation that all women suffrage groups could join. At a moment’s notice, the women could be ‘mobilised’, offering its services impartially whenever women were required to achieve a specific purpose. Although not military, it was organised on military lines.

According to Elizabeth Crawford’s 1999 book The Women’s Suffrage Movement: A Reference Guide 1866-1928, this was partly to show the men that the women of England were capable

West Street circa 1910, three years before suffragettes based themselves at No.60 (©HDC/Horsham Museum)

of organisation, discipline and comradeship, though they did swear not to enter into any militant action whilst wearing the uniform of brown with green cockade and badge.

Reading material about the group read: ‘Feeling that the present crisis in the Cause of the Emancipation of Women demands every effort that can be made, the Marchers’ Qui Vive Corps have opened the above premises as a centre of activity for propaganda in the Suffrage Cause. The shop will be open to visitors on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 10.30am and more frequently when arrangements can be made for doing so. One room has been set apart for small meetings, debates, discussions etc, of which due notice will be given.’

‘A Speakers’ Class is also shortly to be formed, and it is hoped that all interested in this work will make these opportunities known among friends, and give this enterprise every support. On Saturday afternoons the Corps will rally at the Depot and a march will be made on some outlying district, where a meeting will be held. Longer marches will be made periodically on Brighton, Shoreham, Worthing, Hastings, Eastbourne and to the West of England, as circumstances permit.’

‘A stock of literature will be kept on sale at the shop, including all the weekly publications of the several Suffrage Societies, and tea will be provided at moderate charges. Fancy articles, jam, cakes, sweets etc for sale at the shop will be gratefully accepted, and proceeds to the up-keep of the depot. Members of all suffrage societies are invited to join the Corps; but while engaged on active service for the Qui Vive must pledge themselves to be non-militant. All women who love their race and would preserve the honour of their Empire, come and learn the truth of Women and Sweated Labour, Women and the White Slave Traffic, Women under the Law, and the Wasted Lives of Children. All visitors and enquirers cordially welcomed at the Depot.’

CRISES? WHAT CRISES?

So, what were the ‘crises’ mentioned at the start of the poster? Although there had been some movement by 1908 on granting women the vote, the Liberals, who were broadly pro-suffrage, were led by Herbert Henry Asquith, who hated the thought of it, whilst the Tories were led by Arthur Balfour and then Andrew Bonar Law, who were mildly in favour, but whose followers opposed the idea. This led to political stalemate.

In the 1910 General Election, there were three suffrage candidates but they only received 696 votes in total, though a 280,000 petition was signed supporting it.

By March 1912, things had spiralled out of control with attacks on private property and a rampage in Knightsbridge. The following February, Christabel Pankhurst, one of the key pro-suffrage organisers, and her followers smashed the orchid house at Kew, set railway

Celebrating International Women’s Day in West Street

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carriages alight and bombed the house of David Lloyd George, the Chancellor. Two months later, the Government would pass the bill that allowed hunger-strikers to be released on health grounds only to be re-arrested if they didn’t pledge future ‘good behaviour.’

LITERARY CLUB

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On 12 September 1914, The West Sussex County Times carried a letter by L. J Churchman, saying that the committee of the Horsham Suffrage Society and the Women’s Social and The Horsham Women’s Social and Literary Club have met, considered and endorsed the suggestion given by Miss Kensett to preserve and bottle fruit that would then be distributed to those that needed it in the winter months. Everyone was doing their bit during the war.

At the AGM of the Literary Society, held in May the following year, it was reported that ‘the club had had its vitality quickened and had turned its attention to fundraising with whist drives and entertainment while making some 700lbs of jam to distribute among the needy of Horsham.’ The Suffrage Society

offered its rooms at 60 West Street as a depot to collect and receive fruit, jars and sugar.

By now though, many women were playing a much more active role, entering the workforce in the war, and the suffragettes had scaled down. By 1918, the first woman had been elected as a Member of Parliament. It wasn’t until the Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act 1928 though that women had the same voting rights as men.

WORDS: Jeremy Knight (Editing by AAH Magazine)

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TALK ABOUT REVO

SHOW MUST GO ON AFTER THE REC ROOMS SHUTS ITS DOORS

Despite the closure of The Rec Rooms, there are still outlets for fans of original live music in Horsham.

Revelations at The Rec was launched last year, giving local acts the chance to perform with professional sound equipment to a good-sized crowd. Now the organisers have been forced to look elsewhere, with March’s event held at The Roffey Club, with a new name.

New Music Revelations is organised by Stephen Marshall, frontman of rock group The Absolute Loves. Stephen said: ‘Before the pandemic, The Rec Rooms hosted gigs that supported the local scene, but lockdown had a huge impact on the venue and we’ve seen the result of that.’

‘There are great people like Jamie Stanley (aka Mailman), who support live music in Horsham and provide opportunities to play. That’s a really good thing, but the quality can vary. You might see a talented act or a bad one playing their first gig. My idea was to fill the space in-between, bringing in bands that have progressed beyond open mic nights, yet don’t have the following to headline a venue as big as The Rec Rooms.’

‘I presented the idea initially to The Rec’s management and they loved it. If we brought together three bands and each attracted 20 people, then you would have a crowd. The idea was to bring in bands that complement one another, so fans of one might enjoy others on the same bill.’

Call of Sirens

(©AAH/Alan Wright)

Good News Hidden by Media Negativity

I can almost copy the start of last month’s AAH column: ‘Despite the Bank of England Base Rate increasing again, the markets have reacted pretty well. A number of lenders reduced rates towards the end of the month and others are predicted to do so again this month, especially to attract new business.’

This is still so true and we have seen lenders once again reduce rates recently, even though the bank base increased to 4.25%. This is mainly because the SWAP rates (the amount lenders pay to financial institutions in order to acquire fixed rate monies for a specific period of time), have steadily decreased over the last few weeks. This is great news and unlike the recent rate rises, is not getting the media attention headlines it deserves.

OLUTION

KEEP CALM, CARRY ON

The inaugural Revelations gig was held last September with a line-up including The Absolute Loves and Jay Aston’s Gene Loves Jezebel. The next featured three up-and-coming acts (Common Buzzards, Space Fishermen and ShameFaced) before a rock night featuring Horsham-based outfit Rogue Awakening, Aeones, and Battle of the Bands winners Demure.

However, Revelations almost died before it had a chance to gain a foothold, with the closure of The Rec Rooms. Stephen said: ‘I already had a few bands lined up, so decided to carry on. I had to convince myself it was worth it, because putting together these events requires a big commitment

for very little financial reward. I wasn’t sure that we could continue without the prestige of The Rec Rooms, as it’s a venue that could attract bands of stature. But I didn’t want to give up, as we had a good thing going and I want to support the fantastic music scene.’

‘I approached The Roffey Club and The Holbrook Club and they were both welcoming and supportive. Some people might not get excited about social clubs, but we’re delighted. The Roffey Club has a nice bar with affordable drinks, dance floor and lots of seating. They have pictures of some of the acts who have performed there before – Showaddywaddy, Chas and Dave, Bobby Davro – and they still host lots of events. Venues like that need the support of local people to keep going too.’

This also comes at a time when a recent survey from Legal & General suggests that almost one in two households are concerned about being able to keep up with mortgage and rent payments over the next year. Their Rebuilding Britain Index (RBI) surveyed over 20,000 people and found that 95% of working households have experienced a real term pay cut over the last 12 months as wages fail to keep up with inflation. The findings also suggested that full time workers in England can now expect to spend more than eight times their annual earnings when buying a home.

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Rogue Awakening at The Roffey Club (©AAH/Alan Wright)

New Music Revelations held its first event at The Roffey Club on Friday 10 March, with three female-fronted bands performing to a healthy crowd. The first act was Call of Sirens, a Portsmouth band recently featured on BBC Introducing. Kenopsia, the lead single from their new EP, ‘Gaia’, has already been viewed over 1,500 times on YouTube.

Next up were a promising new band from Brighton, Sypha, performing catchy, melodic rock, including their debut single, Sober. The third and final act to play was Rogue Awakening, a Horsham-based group who brought along plenty of local support, mostly comprised of school-run parents!

Tom Corrigan, the band’s rhythm guitarist, met vocalist Kimberley Voice on the school playground, as they have children at the same school. He recalls: ‘It was in the midst of the pandemic when everyone was losing their mind with boredom. I mentioned that I used to play guitar, and Kimberley told me she used to sing in a band called Damn Dirty Humans, who had enjoyed success but eventually disbanded. We met up and started writing some acoustic music, then brought in a drummer and lead guitarist to form Rogue Awakening.’

Stephen Marshall, organiser of Revelations

Wright)

‘Whilst Kimberley is a confident performer, this is all completely new to me. I am 40 soon and have never performed in a live band before! We all have commitments, with work and families, so the band is just a bit of fun and gives us a creative outlet. If we can record an EP and perform once a month, that would be great. We have never set goals; we’re just enjoying playing and we’ll see where it takes us.’

FEMALES IN FRONT

Rogue Awakening have recorded a single, Overshadowed, working with local production company, Ignite AMR. The band’s members have influences which balance out into melodic, riff-driven rock.

Kimberley said: ‘When we starting out, we were playing acoustic covers of 90s R&B, so we've been on quite a journey. Now, we are writing our own rock songs and there’s real variety. We never really had a conversation about our sound; it just evolves. Our first song was composed on the piano and when we came together and introduced each element, it took on a new life and became heavier, but still maintained its melody. We try to avoid too many rock cliches though, as you can have too many guitar solos!’

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Sypha, featuring vocalist Alicia Piling, guitarist Alfred Atkins, bassist Will Cheesman and drummer James Antony (©AAH/Alan Wright)

‘If we can record an EP and perform once a month, that would be great!’

The band played a big part in organising the latest night of Revelations, recommending Call of Sirens and Sypha to the organisers. It may be no coincidence that all three have strong female rock vocalists!

FUTURE PLANS

After the success of the first night at Roffey, Stephen is planning to introduce more variety to Revelations, with future events perhaps having a mod, prog rock or even ska theme.

He said: ‘The new set-up means we can be flexible in terms of dates, as opportunities were limited at The Rec Rooms. It also means we can switch venues, visiting the Holbrook Club and The Roffey Club. It might be that we expand in future and do comedy nights too, who knows? We could even organise a blues rock festival, which is something I would love to do.’

‘We’re also hoping to introduce live music to the Hurst Café, a popular venue for young people. I'm not trying to be Horsham’s Harvey Goldsmith, but I enjoy doing it and if the demand is there and I’m not losing money, I’ll carry on, as live music is my passion.’

WORDS: BEN MORRIS

PHOTOS: ALAN WRIGHT

Further information:

A showcase event is planned for Hurst Cafe on 29 April, featuring The Martin Abrahams Band, The Absolute Loves and more. The next Roffey Club will be held in May (details to be confirmed) with the line-up to include Sabotage. newmusicrevelations. newmusicrevelations

For news and events at The Roffey Club visit roffeyclub.co.uk

Rogue Awakening (©AAH/Alan Wright)

Sypha (©AAH/Alan Wright)

FINAL WORD

REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF ROBERT BLATCHFORD FROM HORSHAM

Remembrance Sunday is an important day in the local calendar, and that was true even on 8 November 2020, when the public was asked to ‘Remember at Home’.

At other times of the year, we are helped to remember our debt to those who fell during the World Wars by the monuments in our towns and villages. If not consciously in our minds, they may still be in our sightlines on a daily basis. But some individuals are not so present to our minds, particularly if they have no kin tending their grave. One example is the great journalist and campaigner, Robert Blatchford, whose name had to be uncovered from encroaching wild flowers before the photo here could be taken, during a welcome break from lockdown.

Not that Robert Blatchford, who died in Horsham in 1943 and is buried at Hills Cemetery, would have objected at all. In fact, he would have approved of Remembrance, because the Army formed him. Bored with his long apprenticeship to a Halifax brush maker, Blatchford ran away in 1871, tramping down to London where, after starving for some weeks, he enlisted in the 103rd Regiment which had recently returned from India. Promoted to sergeant after 18 months, he became a marksman, only leaving the service seven years later in 1878, aged 27. His military experience gave him an independence of outlook and resilience which was to serve him well.

After marrying his childhood sweetheart, Blatchford turned to journalism to support his family. He had stumbled on his forte, because he was soon in demand, firstly in London and then Manchester, where he wrote about the slums in a spirit of indignation that such things could be. Some thought it cost him his job on The Sunday Chronicle He became a socialist, founding the Manchester Fabian Society in 1890. With two friends and his brother Montagu, he started The Clarion, a socialist weekly in 1891, raising the capital between them. Blatchford had by this time adopted the pen-name ‘Nunquam Dormio’ (‘I never sleep’) which was probably not far from the truth.

The Clarion prospered, achieving a healthy circulation. But it was only after articles from the weekly had been republished in book form under the title ‘Merrie England’ that Blatchford’s name was made. Selling two million copies, ‘Merrie England’ was a sensation. Annie Kenney, the millworker and suffragette who became part of the Pankhurst family’s inner circle, credited Blatchford with being the literary father and mother to thousands of men and women in the Lancashire factories, effectively providing them with an informal education.

Yet The Clarion was no solemn tract. Having a grounding in sports journalism, Blatchford ensured that his weekly paper remained populist in tone. Tapping into the cultural desire for light-hearted amusement at a time when aspirational office workers had money and time at weekends to spare for leisure activities, The Clarion had more in common with Jerome K. Jerome’s ‘Three Men in a Boat’ than Karl Marx’s ‘Das Kapital’.

Blatchford ensured that political radicalism was kept palatable, the medicine of socialism being sweetened by the jam of fellowship and fun. Indeed, it may be that the various Clarion Clubs for scouting, biking, hiking and community singing had even more impact than the newspaper in spreading the word. No stranger to controversy, Blatchford became an early advocate for atheism. But even on this subject, he retained his geniality, opening The Clarion’s pages to eminent religious apologists. Nor was he afraid to alienate pacifists on the Left, arguing in favour of Britain’s entry into the First World War and mocking conscientious objectors.

Losing readers from this crusading, his star waned in the 1920s, by which time he had settled at The Firs, King’s Road, Horsham. His wife pre-deceased him. Perhaps feeling some guilt that political campaigning had taken him away from home too much, Blatchford turned to spiritualism. Yet this change of heart reveals another aspect of the man: a restlessness which led him to modify earlier views. He continued to write, publishing a memoir, ‘My Eighty Years’ in 1931, before dying of influenza in his adopted town 12 years later.

Like the men on the Broadbridge Heath war memorial, this tireless campaigner for social justice has a street named after him: Blatchford Road. He would, no doubt, be pleased to note that his villa is used to offer supported housing. Some of his books are on display at Horsham Museum too. But for all that, his grave in Hills Cemetery seems a little neglected.

But would Robert Blatchford have minded?

A soldier to his core, he would probably have regarded the fate of the fallen in the First World War as far worse than his own, since he lived into his nineties. And gifted with an ironic sense of humour, he might also conclude that his most enduring memorial is the social starting point we assume in thinking about minimum living standards in modern Britain. But doesn’t Blatchford deserve something more from Horsham: a school named after him perhaps, or a room in a municipal building, or even simply his becoming the subject of an exhibition?

Further information:

Blatchford is buried in Hills Cemetery. Inset: Robert Blatchford

Simon Machin Separate Star Productions CIC

Simon highlights the story of Robert Blatchford and asks if he deserves more recognition...

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