APRIL 2020
COVER STORY
All About AAH AAH is an independent magazine, owned by Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. EDITOR: BEN MORRIS editor@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 The Editor, AAH Magazine, 2 Viney Close, Ashington, RH20 3PT
IN THIS
EDITION
ADVERTISING: advertising@aahorsham.co.uk 01403 878026 / 01903 892899 PHOTOGRAPHY: TOBY PHILLIPS tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk info@tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk 07968 795625 Toby is available for all kinds of photography, from portrait work to corporate shoots. To find out more about his work, visit his website at https://tobyphillipsphotography.co.uk WEBSITE: www.aahorsham.co.uk We publish AAH online every month. You can read archive editions too.
Our usual News Round-up is divided into two sections. The first relates to news on COVID-19’s impact on the District, while the local news includes the Sussex Food & Drink Awards finalists...
Advertising in AAH The magazine is delivered to 15,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages including Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Ashington, Partridge Green and new estates at Highwood and Wickhurst Green. Thousands of copies are picked up from our stylish stands across the District. The magazine is also published online. ADVERTISING Eighth Page Advert: £55 + VAT Quarter Page Advert: £110 + VAT Half Page Advert: £185 + VAT Full Page Advert: £310 + VAT Double Page Advert: £520 + VAT Every Sixth Advert is Free For more details or an AAH information book email advertising@aahorsham.co.uk or call 01903 892899
The April 2020 cover features Pollyanna Hutchinson, owner of Pollyanna’s Kitchen, at her home in West Chiltington. While Toby did set up the lights, the food in the picture wasn’t entirely for show, as Pollyanna prepared us a bowl of prawn noodles, served with her original chilli sauce, Chillish. Other cover options include a photo of the alley between Market Square and Causeway. Toby went into Horsham on Wednesday 25 March after shops had been closed due to Coronavirus, recording the town at its quietest. Julie Murphy of Ceramic Spirit is the third cover contender.
DOOR TO DOOR DISTRIBUTION Horsham: Jacquie Paterson, Dominic Goddard, The Judd family, The Rollingson family, George Voisey, Katie Drysdale, George Williams, Sam Lucas, Hazel Garner, Sam Uphill, Jill Shuker, The Bloomfield family, The Arliss family, Charlotte Wellbelove, The Gavira Family, The Dold Family Southwater: Connor Brown, William Britton, Tassia Chapman Villages: Nathan Williams (Mannings Heath); Lynsey Hare (Billingshurst), Harry Kent (Ashington), Derek Bradnum (Nuthurst) Ben Morris (Stands), Oak Tree Farm Care (Maplehurst & Copsale); The Palmer family & Amy Butler (BBH) James Hobbs (Thakeham), Tom Matthews (Storrington) PICK UP POINTS & STANDS 4,000 more copies are available at businesses, clubs, organisations and community centres across the district. Horsham: Henry Adams (Carfax), Pavilions in the Park, Horsham Museum, Horsham Rail Station, Crates (Carfax) New House Farm, Swan Walk, The Capitol, New Street Butchers (New Street) At Home Estate Agents (Caterways), The Holbrook Club Village Stands: CoCo’s (Southwater); Billingshurst Leisure Centre, Coco’s (Billingshurst) Barns Green Village Store, The Bridge Leisure Centre (BBH), Bluecoat Sports (Christ’s Hospital), Leonardslee (Lower Beeding), Warnham Village Stores (Warnham), Slinfold Stores (Slinfold), Steyning Leisure Centre, Spring Gardens Nursery (Washington) and Joanna’s Boutique Tearooms (Storrington) LEAFLETS We can deliver leaflets with AAH. Email editor@aahorsham.co.uk £40 + VAT per 1,000 copies (£45 for A4 leaflets) SOCIAL MEDIA Follow us on Twitter @AAHMagazine and @tobyphillips1
NOTES
l This edition has initially been published online only. When we’re able to print and deliver door-to-door again, we will return, as strong as ever!
Toby Phillips strolled around Horsham on Wednesday 25 March with the shops closed due to Coronavirus. His images capture the town in this most remarkable of times.
The chilli and garlic oils by Pollyanna’s Kitchen have received accolades. We meet the founder, Pollyanna Hutchinson. We also listen to the beautful singing of Horsham Rock Choir led by Sarah Willis.
Derek Paxton has devoted much of his life to running Horsham Judo Club, while Julie Murphy has set up Ceramic Spirit at her home in Horsham, teaching people the art of pottery.
Notes from the Editor
Thinking Like the ‘Mayor of Shark City’ When I was a boy, I was a contestant on BBC children’s show, Get Your Own Back. I got covered in slime. So did my poor mum. However, what I remember most is the presenter, Dave Benson Phillips, saying: “I hear that you like sharks! Why on Earth do you like sharks?” To which I replied, “Because I’m mad!” I remember this as my friends have never let me forget it. Over the years, I’ve heard the words repeated countless times and it still embarrasses me 30 years on. But I did love sharks. Naturally, my interest has waned, although even now I sometimes check the Global Shark Attack Files. I’ve come to realise that fatal attacks in developed counties are swiftly picked up by international news agencies. But last Boxing Day, a case in Papua New Guinea went largely unnoticed. An English language newspaper based there did publish the story, which had a scarcely believable detail. The man who died had lost his father in a shark attack 11 years earlier. Considering the rarity of such incidents, this seems astonishingly unlucky! In a link that’s not nearly as seamless as I first imagined, a killer shark with a grudge against one family is basically the plot to one of the awful sequels to what is inevitably my favourite film, Jaws. Yes, the shark is rubbish, but I love that movie. It’s the characters, you see? Not just Brody the Police Chief, Hooper the scientist and Quint the alcoholic fisherman, but the supporting players on Amity Island. Most notably, Mayor Larry Vaughn. During Coronavirus, Mayor Vaughn has enjoyed a resurgence in notoriety. He’s even been the subject of an article in The Guardian because his response to people being eaten
by a big fish bears comparison to the response of Boris Johnson and other world leaders to COVID-19. If you’ve not seen Jaws and need a refresher, Amity’s Chief of Police wants to close the beaches after a shark attack, but the Mayor uses his political influence to stop him. Even as evidence mounts and pressure grows from the media and the scientific community (represented here by Hooper from National Geographic) to act, the Mayor fumbles on. His commitment to protecting jobs and trade is almost admirable initially, but his hesitation in adapting to an ever-evolving situation eventually turns him into the villain. The Mayor of Shark City. Some of this sounds familiar. As I write on 25 March, President Trump is concerned enough about the economic impact of Coronavirus to be contemplating opening the beaches while the shark is still hungry... Most of us could loosely be labelled as a Brody (someone who recognised the danger early and wanted a full-scale shut down) or a Mayor Vaughn (someone who failed to comprehend the brevity of the problem until it “bit them on the ass!”) Sadly, I’m in the Mayor Vaughn camp. I hope the following comments don’t come across as falsely self-deprecating, but my initial opinions are being increasingly proven to be naive or foolish. Yet they were shared by many. I didn’t take it all seriously until I read about what was happening in Italy. Cities not in China, but close to home. Yet still, I was annoyed that my life and that of my family was being dictated by people in London - a different world to my semi-rural existence. So, I carried on.
On Friday 13 March, I played six-a-side football in Horsham, several days after Horsham FC had made its own decision to stop all activity. Boris Johnson banned sporting activities that same night. Afterwards, I had a pint at the bar (the last night this was allowed). Some drank alone or a couple of metres apart - Social Distancing was in its relative infancy - but most chatted at the bar, exaggerating their footballing prowess. The next day, The Daily Mail published pictures of people enjoying themselves in a pub, doing precisely what I’d been doing. Except they were being strongly criticised for gathering and having fun. Was I in the wrong? I didn’t think so. I mean, I’d seen images of panic buying, with people fighting over toilet roll. I didn’t consider myself to be one of those idiots. Okay, we did buy an extra carton of milk and a dozen eggs when we’d normally buy six. And we put a second loaf in the freezer. How many of us did that? Enough to ensure the shelves were bare, perhaps… I also stubbornly carried on with work, determined to make a printed edition for April. This time last week, I believed readers would appreciate the effort we’d have gone through in order to get a magazine through their letterbox. A lot has happened in the seven days since. Now, people would be annoyed at the sight of me delivering to thousands of homes, blindly deluded by my own self-importance. It’s taken a while, but us Mayor Vaughns have come around. Hopefully, we can still save summer. Then again, all it takes is one or two crazy Quints to ruin everything...
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COVID-19 NEWS
Howard Bayliss shuts up shop at Candy Box, Carfax on Monday 23 March.
HOW THE CORONAVIRUS HAS IMPACTED THE HORSHAM DISTRICT
The first section of the News Round-up are devoted to Coronavirus. Of course, it’s a constantly evolving situation and AAH went to press at 10am on Thursday 26 March, two days since the Prime Minister announced that only shops offer essential services could remain open. These include food retailers, pharmacies, hardware stores, corner shops, petrol stations, shops in hospital, post offices, banks, newsagents, laundrettes and pet shops.
Walking around Horsham on Monday 23 March, most shops and businesses had already closed. Newsagent Howard Bayliss, owner of Candy Box in Carfax, was about to lock the doors. Howard said: “I closed the door and started serving from the window on Saturday, so nobody could enter the shop. As 90% of my customers work at offices, bars, pubs, shops and restaurants in the town, my trade has already fallen off a cliff. More importantly, I have to think about my family. My wife is
Pubs and bars were closed from Saturday 21 March, with measures to be reviewed every 28 days. Pubs that remained open for people to consume food and drink on the premises were warned that they could face prohibition notices, potentially unlimited fines and the loss of their alcohol licence. However, pubs with off-sales licences could still offer takeaways (of food and drink) during this period.
West Sussex County Council made the decision to close libraries until further notice after ‘Social Distancing’ rules were implemented. Library staff will automatically renew everything currently on loan and no fines and charges will be incurred during the closure. l Household Waste Recycling Sites (HWRSs) were also closed. However, refuse collections were still being carried out as AAH went to press and the collection teams have been widely praised for their ongoing efforts.
anxious that I’m in contact with members of the public. If the situation is worsering and the UK is mirroring what’s happening in countries like Italy, I don’t want to run the risk of contributing to the spread of the infection.” “I’ve never known the town like this before. However, one flip-side to all the negative impacts is that customers have been very encouraging. People say, “we’ll get through it!” and “see you on the other side!’ There’s a touch of Dunkirk spirit around!” Leisure and sport centres including Holbook Club and Horsham Sports Club closed on 20 March. Places Leisure, which operates The Bridge (Broadbridge Heath), Pavilions in the Park, Steyning and Billingshurst Leisure Centres have frozen all payments for members and offered refunds to those who booked sessions/classes that have been cancelled. Weekly home workouts are available via the Places Locker App which in partnership with Les Mills has added over 100 free workouts.
The Capitol closed on Tuesday 17 March, automatically refunding tickets bought for screenings and productions from 17 March - 30 April. The Capitol will review future bookings and refunds. l The Everyman Cinema in Piries Place, Horsham closed, but injected some light humour into its marquee (above right).
l The Rec - including The Rec Rooms and The Clubhouse - has cancelled all events until at least the end of April. The owners issued a statement on its website thanking customers for their support. The Rec Rooms is a good venue for music and comedy and has hosted some superb performances. Acts due to perform later this year include Rhino’s Revenge (with Status Quo bassist John ‘Rhino’ Edwards), David Devant & His Spirit Wife and Mark Chadwick, frontman with The Levellers.
l Manor Theatre Group’s production of Dry Rot at North Heath Hall on 27 - 28 March has been cancelled. l Horsham Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (HAODS) is scheduled to perform Sister Act at The Capitol on 12 - 16 May. It hadn’t been officially postponed as AAH went to press. l Coolham Live Music Club has cancelled all events for the foreseeable future but is posting videos of acts that have played in Coolham on its Facebook page.
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Status Quo bassist John ‘Rhino’ Edwards (Simon Cooper)
Everyman in Piries Place
The Rec and The Rec Rooms are closed
The entertainment industry has been hard hit by the impact of Coronavirus.
Horsham FC v Crawley Town (Photo by John Lines)
Horsham Football Club suspended all activity for adult, youth, disability and veterans’ teams, including training. A statement on the club’s website read: “Whilst there will inevitably be an adverse effect on our finances, the board is satisfied that Horsham FC can weather the storm and make a strong return to competitive football when the time comes.” Horsham FC have enjoyed a solid season in the Isthmian Premier Division and despite a recent dip in form remain in 6th place. To keep fans entertained, videos of the season’s best goals can be viewed at www.horshamfc.co.uk l Horsham Rugby Union Football Club have also had a good season in London 1 South, following promotion for the 1st XV last season. The club was 7th in the table at the time the RFU decided to suspend rugby. www.horshamrufc.com l The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has agreed that no professional cricket will take place until at least 28 May. After a five-year absence, Sussex Sharks are due to return to Horsham this summer to play a Royal London One-Day Cup fixture at Cricket Field Road. l The Big Gig is scheduled to take place at Horsham Sports Club on 20 June. It hadn’t been cancelled as AAH went to press. www.facebook.com/biggighorsham/
TOOVEY’S
Bluebells at St Leonard’s Forest
Dinosaur Island in Southwater
Parks and Countryside sites are closed due to Horsham District Council’s concerns about Social Distancing. Southwater Country Park car parks are closed with the cafe, Dinosaur Island and watersports inaccessible. In Horsham, play areas, skate parks, tennis courts and gym pods have been closed, although car parks for Horsham Park remain open. Car parks at Owlbeech and Leechpool Woods are closed, although the woods can be accessed for those seeking fresh air. Warnham Nature Reserve and RSPB Pulborough Brooks are also closed.
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AAH visited Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens to interview Head Gardener Stephen Herrington on Monday 23 March. It was to be the last day of opening, before it was closed due to Coronavirus. Leonardslee said in a statement: “This is a very difficult time for all of us and we will make every effort to restore ‘normal service’ as soon as possible.” www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk
Photos from the Caribbean Festival, Plum Jam and Feria de Horsham
Horsham’s Events calendar has been heavily impacted by Coronavirus. The Horsham Passion Play, due to have been performed twice on Good Friday, has been postponed. It is hoped that there will be the opportunity to perform it in the future. Horsham District Council
suspended all town events from 18 March until at least the end of June. Events affected include the Easter Bunny Hunt, Horsham Sounds, Broadwood Morris Day of Dance, Great British Sunday, Feria de Horsham, Plum Jam, the Latin America and Caribbean Festival and Armed Forces Sunday.
Despite the dramatic impact of Coronavirus on everyday life, Horsham Climate Café believes that the social and Governmental response gives cause for hope. One positive side-effect is that the world has seen a dip in greenhouse gas emissions, while there has been a collaborated response to the outbreak says Carrie Cort, founder of Sussex Green Living and co-founder of Horsham Climate Café. Carrie added: “The UK often blames China for its huge carbon footprint, yet many of our clothes and goods are made cheaply there and imported. We spent £44.7billion on imported Chinese goods in 2018. COVID-19 has forced us to rethink the unsustainable way in which we’ve been living. We have a unique opportunity to make something good come out of a negative situation." l April’s Horsham Climate Cafe is to be held via video conferencing.
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Long queues and supply issues at supermarkets led to a surge in popularity and appreciation of farm shops, delis, butchers and bakeries in the Horsham District. Thousands of people have been happy to pay a little extra for produce at smaller outlets including Crates, Hillier’s Farm Shop and New House Farm Shop in Horsham, Weston’s Farm in Itchingfield, Sussex Produce Company in Steyning, The Village Deli in Storrington, Jeremy’s Two in Cowfold and Village Larder and Spring Gardens Nursery in Washington. Crates in Carfax was forced to close the cafe side of its business. However, the farm shop has never been busier. Speaking on 23 March, co-owner PJ Aldred said: “We switched our operations to focus solely on fresh produce and have been overwhelmed with the response. Already, we’re working to orders with four days’ notice. Everyone wants to buy local. I’ve been selling fruit and vegetables for seven years and suddenly we’re the most popular shop in the town centre.”
PJ Aldred and Marion Carter served from the door at Crates, Carfax, on Monday 23 March
PEOPLE ARE ANXIOUS PJ added: “To be honest, it would probably be better for us to close entirely, with the grants that are being made available by the Government, but we’re determined to keep providing fresh produce as long as we can. We know that people are very anxious about getting food in. “We’re in an ideal position, as we work directly with producers, rather than wholesalers. There’s no
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shortage of food, but problems are being created by panicbuying, with some people filling their freezer with meat. And I have no idea why everyone is buying so many eggs. We must have a town full of bakers! “I would urge people to be patient. Buy what you need and don’t stock up for a month.”
Crates also believe that the current situation has meant that people are starting to value food. “Food isn’t being wasted as we’re appreciating every meal,” says PJ. “That’s good news for local producers. We work with a small dairy, Downsview, that lost its cafe trade but farm shops like
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www.impactsf.co.uk What a difference a month can make - Testing times for us all. I want to review a few key issues, hence the slightly bigger column than normal! Let’s start with Mortgage Payment Holidays... As mentioned by the Chancellor recently, everyone may be entitled to a mortgage payment holiday of three months. The holiday allows a borrower to DEFER mortgage payments for an agreed period of time. At the end of the holiday, the normal monthly payments resume. HOWEVER, you will still need to repay the money owed and you WILL incur interest on your mortgage during the holiday. Please note that you will need to speak with your lender first and they will decide whether you are eligible for the payment holiday. You should certainly not stop your mortgage direct debit but do continue with your normal mortgage payments until the lender agrees your payment holiday. If you don’t need to, don’t take the payment holiday! This may sound strange, but behind the scenes, and despite saying it won’t affect your credit
score, it will possibly affect your ongoing ability to borrow. No one knows exactly how these holidays will be accounted for when you go to re-mortgage or buy another property. Lenders want to see that you have consistently paid your last 12 monthly mortgage payments. If you take the full payment holiday, you will have only paid nine. With the onslaught of technology making decisions, a computer may not be able to decipher that you’ve had an approved payment holiday for three months. It will only see that the mortgage has not been paid. In the interim, this is may seem small beer in the grand scheme of things. The reality is that, for onward future finances, it could be huge. We know this as in more normal climates, you can take one mortgage payment holiday and it is usually registered as a ‘U’ on your credit reports and we can sometimes have trouble getting these through lenders current systems.
RATES OF INTEREST Rates are fluctuating hourly, with some resemblance to the crash in 2007/8. Some lenders have withdrawn rates at midnight and tell everyone the
If you find a great mortgage deal, be quick!
day after, so they won’t receive a spike of business. We all understand why bank base rate (BBR) changed but this has resulted in a huge number of Tracker rates (tracking the BBR) being withdrawn. Existing customers charging rates obviously reduce with the changes, but these great rates are not open to new clients. Fixed rates haven’t changed too much, but some have increased. It’s mainly criteria where we have seen changes. Some lenders have withdrawn high loan to values, so 95% deals and for Buy to Lets, many lenders have mainly dropped to 75% loan to value. In short, if you find a great deal, be quick!
HOME WORKING Most brokers, lenders, surveyors are now fully functional from home. This is causing problems for some lenders. One major high street lender has already confirmed that it can only handle so many bits of business
each day in the new format and as such, once it reaches its quota, it will stop taking further business for that day! Business continuity plans at their best! Valuations: Although it’s a slightly different ‘business as usual’ the one part of the market we all rely on is the valuation of the subject property. The surveyor is the eyes of the mortgage lender and relies on their feedback to confirm suitable security. If the valuer cannot assess the property, the mortgage market, especially for purchases, will grind to a halt. At the time of writing, this is the one bit I’m really concerned about and keeping a close eye on developments. Finally, we, at Impact SF are fully functional and working from home during normal business hours. We continue to offer our free advice service, so speak to the team, pick our experienced brains and we’ll help you wherever we can. Stay safe.
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“We can continue being an essential resource for your produce.”
Food Rocks, which operates Horsham Markets, closed Thursday’s Market until further notice. As AAH went to press, Saturday’s Market was set to continue from 9am - 1pm with a small number of essential stalls selling local produce including meat, vegetables, eggs, bread, cakes and freshly ground coffee beans. The announcement
was criticised by some on social media. In a statement on its website, Food Rocks wrote: “We want nothing more than to stay open so that we can continue being an essential resource for your produce and to keep supporting our traders.” The safety measures Horsham District Council has agreed with both markets are as follows:
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RRP £3199 OUR PRICE £2899
The SP46 Elite is a great self-propelled, petrol-driven mower. The ever-popular Honda GCVx145 Autochoke petrol engine drives the wheels and the 46cm (18”) cutting width blade resulting in effortless mowing. Features include: Steel Chassis, 6 Position single point height of cut, Mulch plug, 60-litre canvas collection bag and a 2 year warranty.
Future proofed through our in house workshops for warranty and service over the years.
A twin-blade lawn tractor with a new STIGA V-Twin engine, a productive 92cm-wide cutter-deck and a capacious 290-litre grass-collector. There’s a hydrostatic drive for smooth, controlled acceleration; and a multitude of comfort-features designed to make the job a whole lot easier. Power comes from a 586cc STIGA twin-cylinder engine. Future proofed through our in house workshops for warranty and service over the years.
Fully equipped workshop for all types of garden machinery
Our workshop services can maintain your garden machinery throughout its life, from warranty to servicing and repairs. We provide fixed priced servicing and an expected repair date. If we take something that needs additional work, we provide an updated quote, so you don’t have an unexpected bill.
72-74 Park Street, Horsham, RH12 1BY
01403 265030 horsham@horacefuller.com | www.horacefuller.com
Traditional Values... ...Modern Approach
Quality Service
Top left: The Carfax on Wednesday 25 March with closed cafes including Panino and Chococo. The Crownpub is also shut. Top right: Market Square deserted at lunch. Bill’s and the Anchor Hotel are among businesses affected. Left: The Forum, usually busy with shoppers for Dunelm, TK Maxx, Esquires Coffee and the library. Below: Miller & Carter, The M Bar and Everyman Cinema, Premier Inn in a deserted Piries Place. Photos: Toby Phillips Photography
We are a family run business based in the heart of West Sussex just five miles from 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 modern & traditional furniture with ‘made to order’ solid beech frame furniture available from our showroom. Our online gallery demonstrates our work including three piece suites, antique chairs, headboards & more. We have a wide range of fabrics to choose from & offer free fabric samples.
True Craftsmanship
Traditional Methods
For your free no obligation consultation call us today.
Thanks to all our clients old & new, who have supported us over the years. We wish you all a very Happy Easter!
Unit 1B, Church Lane Est, Church Lane, Plummers Plain, Horsham, RH13 6LU
(01403) 891102 www.heritageupholstery.co.uk
Free Estimates
ALL ABOUT HORSHAM MAGAZINE
ALL LOCAL PRODUCE! AAH is an independent magazine, owned and produced by Ben Morris, a life-long resident of the Horsham District. Since the magazine was first published in May 2011, AAH has been renowned for its colourful features and superb images by Toby Phillips Photography. Our editorial content is unrivalled in the Horsham District, with colourful features on businesses and people and our brilliant ‘News Round-Up’
ADVERTISING IN AAH The magazine is delivered to more than 13,000 homes in Horsham, Southwater and villages including Broadbridge Heath, Mannings Heath, Ashington, Storrington, and new estates at Highwood and Wickhurst Green.
Top: Carfax Bandstand often hosts music and entertainment. Town events including Plum Jam and the Day of Dance are cancelled. Far Left: West Street businesses face a long road back to recovery after the Coronavirus outbreak. Left: With people asked to travel for essential work or shopping only, roads are quiet. Photos: Toby Phillips Photography
AAH is distributed to hundreds of businesses, whilst thousands of copies are picked up from our stylish stands across the Horsham District. The magazine is also published online at www.aahorsham.co.uk
EIGHTH PAGE ADVERT: £55 + VAT QUARTER PAGE ADVERT: £110+ VAT HALF PAGE ADVERT: £185 + VAT FULL PAGE ADVERT: £310 + VAT DOUBLE PAGE FEATURE: £500 + VAT SPECIAL OFFER - Every Sixth Advert Free of Charge FOR ALL ENQUIRIES CONTACT BEN
01903 892899 | advertising@aahorsham.co.uk
The Cafe at No.4 in Market Square, aling the alley towards Causeway, Horsham Toby Phillips Photography
www.holmewoodinteriors.co.uk
Independent Kitchen & Bedroom Specialists
Individually designed to complement your tastes and lifestyle. Featuring the latest technology, classic and modern styling and inspired design concepts, visualise your perfect kitchen or bedroom and experience its creation with Holmewood Interiors. Starting from the design process through to the completed installation, our superior quality and workmanship will always create a space you can be proud of.
Why not come and visit our showroom at 12 Queen Street, Horsham RH13 5AF t: 01403 254090 e: info@holmewoodinteriors.co.uk www.holmewoodinteriors.co.uk
News & Events
Matt Gillan, Heritage (Photo: Toby Phillips/AAH)
Send to: editor@aahorsham.co.uk
The Sussex Food & Drink Awards 2020 Grand Finalists have been revealed following months of judging, supported by over 17,000 public votes. The rescheduled banquet, hosted by Danny Pike from BBC Sussex and patron Sally Gunnell OBE, is currently scheduled to be held at the Amex Stadium on 1 July (correct at time of press).
Parham House & Gardens is now under the stewardship of new Head Gardener Erika Packard and her horticulturalist husband Assistant Head Gardener Tim Miles. Erika previously looked after a private garden in Kent, designed by Tom StuartSmith and studied horticulture with plantsmanship at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). Parham’s gardens consist of the beautiful pleasure grounds and a four-acre walled garden featuring uniquely planted herbaceous borders, a rose garden, herb, cut flower and vegetable gardens and a 1920s Wendy House. It is currently closed due to Coronavirus.
All 30 grand finalists will be invited to join over 300 leaders in the food, drink and farming industry to discover who will be crowned overall winner of Best Young Sussex Farmer, Food Producer, Drink Producer, Farmers Market, Food Shop, Butcher, Eating Experience, Street Food and Newcomer of the year. The Horsham District is represented by
More than 80 people walked across fire to raise money for St Catherine’s Hospice in Carfax on Friday 13 March. Crowds were entertained with fire-dancers, light shows and music while participants were briefed by experts from UK Firewalk. They shared top tips for successful fire-walking, before people hot-footed across red-hot embers. Children faced a challenge of their own, braving a pit of Lego bricks barefoot. The event is on target to raise £25,000. If you would like to support local terminally ill people, donate online at: www.justgiving.com/campaign/stchfirewalk
Bangers Galore and Jengers Craft Bakery in Billingshurst (Food Producer), Bolney Wine Estate (Drink Producer) Horsham Market (Farmers Market), Jeremy’s Two in Cowfold (Food Shop) Heritage by Matt Gillan in Slaugham (Newcomer) and Mann & Moore of Horsham (Street Food). Tickets for the night can be booked at https://sussexfoodawards.biz/
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life and Pretty Muddy are due to be held in June. The events are no longer restricted to females only, so everybody can be part of the empowering Race for Life movement. The 5km race will take place at Horsham Park on Sunday 7 June, at 11am. Tilgate Park in Crawley will host 5km, 10km, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy events on 20 June, at 10am. Entry for the Horsham event is £14.99 (£10 children/Under 6 free) The events are non-competitive and open to all. Sign up at www.raceforlife.org (Note: Correct at time of press)
CAGNE is fighting Gatwick’s plans for a second runway (AAH/Toby Phillips)
Campaigners fighting expansion at Gatwick Airport have reacted positively to news that a third runway has been ruled illegal by the Court of Appeal. The court found that the case for expansion at Heathrow didn’t account for the Government’s commitments to tackle climate change. Communities A spokesperson for Campaigners Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (CAGNE) said: “The decision confirms that there should be no new runways built if we are serious about tackling climate change and reaching our target of carbon zero by 2050. Expansion at either airport would have the same impact on climate change. The Achilles heel for Gatwick has always been the lack of road and rail infrastructure and the announcement that the M23 smart motorway has been halted shows that Gatwick is in the wrong place for airport expansion.”
CALL US FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS
(01403) 271746
info@directsecuritypartnership.co.uk
HORSHAM-BASED SPECIALISTS IN: INTRUDER ALARM SYSTEMS DOOR ENTRY SYSTEMS CCTV SYSTEMS ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS GATE AUTOMATION, GRILLES & SHUTTERS CENTRAL STATION MONITORING
www.directsecuritypartnership.co.uk 18 Blatchford Close Horsham RH13 5RG
Louise Poynton (Photo: Stuart Douglas)
PROVIDING COMPLETE SECURITY SOLUTIONS
A journalist has returned to her first love of music to compile a book about what it means to be a David Cassidy fan. Louise Poynton gives fans a grandstand seat for a journey from the 1970s, when teenagers first fell in love with the teen idol, through to his unexpected death in 2017. Louise, an award-winning journalist who lives in Horsham, invited fans to share their memories of falling in love with his good looks and unique singing voice and explain why he has been so important in their lives. She was overwhelmed with stories from around the world. This April would have been Cassidy’s 70th birthday and 2020 also marks 50 years since The Partridge Family was aired on television. Louise, who first saw David Cassidy in concert in March 1973 at Wembley’s Empire Pool, started her career at the Eastbourne Herald and Gazette. She spent 14 years as Group Sports Editor for the Surrey Mirror series. Cherish: David Cassidy – A Legacy of Love, is published by Unicorn Publishing Group on 6 April.
Horsham author Cliff Comber has written a sequel to his debut novel, Running for his Lives. Deadly Deceit is available at Waterstones in Horsham as well as Amazon, priced £11.99. The thriller finds former soldier Dennis ‘Dutch’ French suspected of killing five members of a cartel who were responsible for a terrible crime on his family. To evade arrest, Dutch and his wife flee to Venezuela. Another near-fatal incident during a life of near-death experiences reinforces Dutch’s inner belief in the myth of nine lives.
Horsham District Council has launched a crackdown on highways littering. The Council faces an ongoing battle with litter, with clearances costing taxpayers about £100,500 a year. One recent five-day operation on the A264 bypass cost £9,133.32. Billboards are set to be installed on roadsides to remind people of fines they could face. Penalties range from fixed penalty notices of £75 for dropping litter and up to £2,500 for fly-tipping. The Council asks that if road users or members of the public spot offenders littering or fly tipping, they should report incidents through the Council website or call (01403) 733144, supplying Dash Cam footage where possible.
Catfish frontman Matt Long (John Bull)
Catfish have been nominated for three 2020 UK Blues Awards. Two of its four members, Matt Long (guitar/vocals) and father Paul Long (keyboards/vocals) are based in Wisborough Green. Bassist Adam Pyke met Matt while studying at ACM Guildford and the band was recently joined on drums by Kev Hickman. In 2018, Catfish won a UK Blues Award for Blues Act of the Year (England) to add to their 2016 British Blues Award. This year, they are nominated for Band of the Year, Blues Instrumentalist of the Year (Matt Long) and Album of the Year for Burning Bridges. In the last few years, they have played at major UK blues festivals. Their first two albums, So Many Roads and Broken Man both reached No.1 in the IBBA airplay charts. Burning Bridges was released in May 2019 and has received excellent reviews. www.catfishbluesband.co.uk
Caroline Middleton, Owner of Sugared Pumpkin, pictured for AAH in 2018
Sugared Pumpkin Cake Company has won first prize for the South East region at the Cake Professional Awards. Owner Caroline Middleton was recognised for her outstanding design of a three-tiered celebration cake (below). Caroline said: “The cake was created for a mermaid-themed party and incorporates elements of the sea, sand and a sunset. Inside is my signature chocolate mud cake with Nutella buttercream.” Sugared Pumpkin is a Horsham company, established in 2016. Caroline specialises in creating beautiful cakes for all occasions, using only quality ingredients. The Cake Professionals awards were founded by Phil and Christine Jensen from Peboryon (featured on Extreme Cake Makers on Channel 4) to celebrate cake businesses.
Southern Company of the Year 2018 Winners The Master Window & Conservatory Installers Association
Shaws Glass has been part of the business landscape in Horsham for over 20 years. Our family firm is established as the region’s independent choice for all things glass. Conservatories Double Glazing Front Doors Back Doors Composite Doors Fascias & Soffits Replacement Hinges Cat Flaps Table Tops Shop Fronts Cut Glass Toughened Safety Glass Supply-only windows Glass Balustrades for staircases
We have a wealth of experience in helping you choose the best option to suit your taste and budget. At our showroom, you can view beautiful front and back doors, patio and French doors and concertina bi-fold doors. Visit our website to view brochures.
Shaws Glass is an official outlet and installer for Livin Room by Ultraframe. Ultraframe is changing the visual dynamic of conservatories with new technology, providing great options such as the use of bi folding doors to create a stunning transformation.
66 North Street, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1RD
Tel: (01403) 211133 Email: mail@shawsglass.co.uk
Visit our website at www.shawsglass.co.uk
Cottesmore School unveiled the first Prep school e-sport tournament on Monday 23 March. With sporting fixtures cancelled for the remainder of Easter term, the digital tournament invites all local Prep schools that Cottesmore would typically face on the playing fields to an online tournament of football. Cottesmore has invested in multiple gaming stations for the children to compete in a live, 8-stage knockout FIFA tournament. With the introduction of this digital e-sport contest, Cottesmore hope to maintain the sense of camaraderie and healthy competition with other Prep schools in the county.
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FURNISHING FINE HOMES THE PLUMMERS PLAIN BUSINESS OFFERING A TOUCH OF CLASS Since its foundation in 2009, A&H Furnishings has established a reputation as a leading soft furnishings specialist. The Plummers Plain business offers a complete soft furnishings service, from design to measurement, fashioning and fitting, for jobs large or small. A&H Furnishings is increasingly employed by leading interior designers to assist in the refurbishment of stately homes. However, as directors Helen O’Dell and Ashley Graham-Hyde explain, their skills cater for a wide range of clients… How has the business evolved in recent years? We were asked to work on the soft furnishings of the Stud House in the grounds of Hampton Court. It was a challenging yet hugely enjoyable job that led to further projects at large houses in locations including Holland Park, Kensington and Mayfair. We consider ourselves fortunate to have met the right people at the right time and this has led to many recommendations. Sometimes it feels like a different world; like dipping in and out of Downton Abbey!
What is it that leading designers like about A&H Furnishings? Because of the experience of the team, we are very good at adapting to specific styles. One renowned designer has a reputation for working with antique fabrics and goes to great lengths to source them. Some homeowners seek that specific look, often inspired by National Trust homes. They want to create a perception of a home that’s been lived in for centuries. We have the knowledge to help them achieve that. Recently, we were working with untouched Morris & Co fabrics over 100 years old, with the original label still visible. Do you receive much publicity in homes or interior publications? It’s rare that we’re mentioned in magazine features, even if we’ve created the bedding, blinds or curtains that are featured. It will usually be the designer who is credited for creating a certain style, be it traditional or contemporary. Our expertise is soft furnishings, so we’re just a small but important part of the process. There isn’t space to name everyone, but it’s still nice to see our work in print!
“Sometimes it feels like dipping in and out of Downton Abbey!” Which fabric manufacturers do you work with? Our fabrics suit every budget and include Villa Nova, Romo, James Hare, Kirkby House, Prestigious Textiles, Ado, Costa Este, Clarke and Clarke, Fibre Naturelle, Wemyss, Bill Beaumont Textiles, Sanderson, and Morris & Co. We supply roller blinds, Venetian blinds and the Louvolite Perfect Fit blinds too, and have an extensive range of curtain tracks and poles. People have different ideas, so we need a diverse range. Are there fabrics you don’t offer? We cherry-pick fabric books, but we are not a high street showroom so cannot offer absolutely everything. If we haven't got what you’re looking for, it’s fine to source it elsewhere and we will make the furnishings for you. Customers don't need to use us for every aspect. If you just need us to make the curtains, or perhaps have curtain poles that you want to find matching fabric for, we will help. It’s a bespoke service, tailored to the individual. Is everything done in one unit? The fixtures work - including pelmets, poles and tracks - is now carried out in a separate unit on the Church Lane Industrial Estate. That means it doesn’t impact the fabrics and gives us more space. In addition to our experienced in-house team, we also work alongside very good local upholsterers and fitters, to help us cater for all aspects of soft furnishings. l To arrange an appointment at A&H Furnishings, please call (01403) 891122 email info@ahfurnishings.co.uk or visit www.ahfurnishings.co.uk
Ashley Graham-Hyde and Helen O’Dell at A&H Furnishings
Is all your work based in the south? One designer we work with makes a unique style of bedroom furniture that’s in demand across the world, so our furnishings do travel. We’ve also worked at large homes further afield, and at two chalets in the Swiss Alps. However, we have many local clients and offer the same quality to all, whether it’s a cushion cover or a major redecoration. It doesn’t matter what size house you have, we will offer the same quality service.
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Award-Winning Farm Shop New House Farm Shop and Tea Room is located in a beautifully renovated 16th Century barn in a quiet spot on the edge of Horsham. NOTE: The Tea Room is closed but take-away tea and coffee is available...
Pick up Your Food & Drink Our customers can currently order food and drink to take away. It can be brought to your in our large car park. Call 01293 851890 for details. We also have lovely open seating areas with plenty of space between each table,
POLLYANNA
KNOWS
The Best of Local Produce Our locally sourced produce include fresh fruit and veg, fresh bread, local meats, beer and gins by local brewers, wines from the Bolney Estate and Leonardslee, Sussex cheeses, greetings cards, great gifts and much more!
Great Selection of Treats for Easter www.newhousefarmshop.co.uk 01293 851890 New House Farm, Old Crawley Road, Horsham, RH12 4RU Open Tuesday - Saturday from 10am - 5pm (Currently closed Sundays and Mondays)
Having started out making her own chilli sauce for family meals, Pollyanna Hutchinson has built an acclaimed business. A combination of distinctive branding and delicious flavours has seen West Chiltington-based business Pollyanna’s Kitchen scoop several prestigious accolades. Here, Pollyanna outlines her ambitions for the company‌
MY OWN BOSS I love cooking and always sprinkle chilli into my dishes at home. Long before I founded the business, I would make chilli and keep it in plain jars. Whenever we visited friends or family for dinner, I would take a jar with me and it was always a winner! Chinese chilli oil has a distinctive taste. Even in Chinatown you can experience it. I like that flavour
HER GUBBINS and although I don’t add shrimp paste or deep fry chillies as the Chinese often do, my recipe follows similar principles. I’ve perfected my combination over the years and used it on countless dishes. Whilst I enjoyed making it, I didn't think it was possible to launch a business. But I spent six difficult years in a job outside of the food industry and the experience had left me broken. I didn't feel I had anything to lose by at least trying to be my own
boss, so I set myself a fresh challenge. Being in the kitchen listening to music was like therapy for me. My first child was only two-yearsold, but as soon as she settled down, I would start creating in the kitchen. I experimented with different chillies, herbs and spices, writing every conceivable combination down. I became absorbed by the task of finding my perfect recipe.
Eventually, I came full circle and resorted to my original recipe for Chillish. It combines two chillies. The Szechuan chilli brings the heat and the Ancho is a dark, leathery Mexican chilli that balances out the kick with its own smoky flavour.
festival and almost sold out. It was exciting but also terrifying, as I knew that I had to carry on! There was constantly a queue at the stall and it was a defining life moment for me.
CHILLI FIESTA
Soon, I had my first stockist, Dyke Farm Shop in West Chiltington, which has supported me ever since.
I launched Pollyanna’s Kitchen at the Chilli Fiesta in West Dean in 2017. I prepared 2,000 jars to sell over three days of the
I’m often asked to explain how Chillish should be used and the answer is, “anyway you like!” It’s versatile. In the top half of the jar
Pollyanna goes to great lengths to make her brand unique
is the oil, made with a locallysourced award-winning extra virgin rapeseed oil. At the bottom is the ‘gubbins’ which has a stronger kick. The gubbins is my blend of caramelised onion, chilli, garlic and elegant spices. The variety works, as there is usually one person in every household that doesn’t like hot food! When someone tries it for the first time, they say that it’s mild. Then after seven seconds almost without fail - they get a subtle kick in the taste buds! There’s something comforting and warm about it. There’s a Scandinavian word, Hygge, meaning a perception of cosiness, and Chillish has that.
There are countless ways to use it. You can pour the oil on pizza, use it as a condiment for cheese of pork pies or a marinade while cooking meat; add it to spaghetti Bolognaise, risotto or stir fry, even mix it in a quinoa summer salad. I can't abide bland food and this is a solution! My second product was Garlish, the ultimate garlic oil. It felt like a natural progression to mix the same extra virgin olive oil with a rich, garlic flavour, combining caramelised shallots and spices. The third product was Just the Gubbins, which is simply what’s at the bottom of Chillish. That’s ideal for adding to pies or for marinating meat without oil.
“After seven seconds - almost without fail - Chillish gives you a subtle kick in the taste buds!” Then finally, soon after the birth of my second child, I launched Just the Crush, a punchy, readyto-eat garlic sauce. In my last batch, I made more than 4,000 jars, so I can’t do it at home any more. The house
would permanently stink of onions and garlic! So, I use a brilliant kitchen with top marks for hygiene and food standards. Then I transport the jars home for packaging and presentation. Branding is very important as it reflects the fact that this is a unique product, created by an individual. It’s in a jar because nearly all olive oils are bottled and I wanted to be different. I attach charms and labels individually, which is labourintensive but generates positive feedback. People love the informative leaflets provided as they give ideas and inspiration for recipes. It’s worth going the extra mile when you’re an independent business.
Other great local producers worth checking out... The Sheep Dairy in Sedgwick makes sheep’s milk as well as seasonal ice cream and milkshake. Sheep’s milk has less environmental impact than cow milk. www.sheepdairy.co.uk
Auntie Val’s in Storrington makes beautiful jams, chutneys, marmalades and much more. The business is dedicated to providing work for people with disabilities. www.auntievals.com
Cocoa Loco is an award-winning company in West Grinstead. They use organic, Fairtrade cocoa beans from small-scale farms and offer amazing Easter treats. www.cocoaloco.com
Bee Cosmetics in Horsham creates skincare products from pure honey, beeswax and propolis, together with natural oils, butters and essential oils. www.beecosmetics.co.uk
Trenchmore is a sustainable, family-run farm in Cowfold famed for its 28-day dry-aged beef from slow grown Sussex-crossed Wagyu cattle. www.trenchmore.co.uk
The Cake Angel in Thakeham has won Great Taste Awards for her Absolute Fruitcake, made with an espresso-rich beer from Dark Star Brewing Co. http://cakeangelsussex.com
Pollyanna’s Kitchen products are now available in farm shops, delis and other outlets across the Horsham District and beyond. They include Crates in Horsham, which has supported me from the early days, as well as New House Farm in Horsham, Spring Gardens Nursery in Washington, Weston’s Farm Shop in Itchingfield, The Village Larder in Washington, The Village Deli in Storrington, The Deli and Dyke Farm Shop in Pulborough and Slinfold Stores. I'm a member of The Fine Food Angel, which links producers and farm shops across the country. That’s been another useful partnership in helping me expand. I’ve very proud to have received Great Taste Awards for three of my four products. Just the Gubbins won two stars, which is a fantastic accolade, with Chillish and Just the Crush earning one star. I've entered them again for this year’s competition and it would be great if Garlish made it a clean sweep! I have also been recognised as Best Newcomer at the Sussex Food & Drink Awards.
The next step will be expanding across the country and even beyond. I'm meticulous in terms of standards and if the look doesn’t reflect what I’m making in the kitchen, then I’ve failed. So, maintaining what I’m currently doing but on a bigger scale will be the challenge. I'm also planning to write two books; one a step-by-step recipe guide and the other aimed at children. As a recommendation, Chillish is especially good when you spread it on Sussex Charmer cheese on toast. That’s a great hangover cure! Garlish is lovely on ciabatta bread with some fresh chopped tomatoes or mushrooms!
A variety of herbs and chillies are used in Pollyanna’s Kitchen
WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS
l For more details about Pollyanna’s Kitchen visit www.pollyannaskitchen.co.uk Tel: 01798 669273 hello@pollyannaskitchen.co.uk Facebook: @pollyannaskitchen Twitter: @pollyannaskitch
Pollyanna hopes to write a book of her favourite recipes
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ROCK CHOIR THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SOCIAL SIDE OF SINGING
For members of Rock Choir in Horsham, the weekly meeting offers much more than simply a place to sing... Sandy Wheeler joined nine years ago to help quell loneliness after the loss of her husband. She hasn’t looked back since. “Rock Choir saved me,” says Sandy. “I’ve always enjoyed singing so I was looking for a local group when my sister-in-law read an article about the very first Rock Choir in Farnham. I thought I’d go along to the nearest group with my friend, Catherine Potter. The first time we sang an ABBA song, we were hooked!” “We both live in Worthing but joined the Horsham group as it was the closest at the time. We still travel here as there’s a great social connection and we’ve enjoyed countless experiences over the years.”
Sarah Willis leads the Wednesday morning group at London Road Methodist Church, one of two Rock Choirs based in Horsham. After leading the choir in a beautiful rendition of I’ll Be There by Jess Glynne, AAH sat down for a chat with Sarah… How long have you lead this choir? I’ve been with Rock Choir for four years, taking on the role of leader when my predecessor moved to the west country, where she launched new Rock Choirs. There are two groups in Horsham, with Georgie Standage running an evening choir at Forest School. I also run Rock Choirs in Worthing, Billingshurst, Chichester and Horley. It’s a full-time job, although it doesn’t feel like work. I’m very lucky! How is Rock Choir run? Founder Caroline Redman Lusher launched the first group in Farnham back in 2005. Since then, Rock Choir has expanded
Rock Choir has provided Sandy Wheeler with many memorable experiences
Sarah Willis runs six local Rock Choirs
across the country and is recognised as the world’s largest contemporary choir. We have about 70 people in the Horsham group and there’s fantastic support from a network of leaders across Surrey, Sussex and Kent. On a national scale, we use the same arrangements. By sticking to the same repertoire, when members move to a new area, they can join another group and settle in quickly. How are songs arranged? Caroline used to write every arrangement but now has a creative team of choir leaders around her and they have gradually perfected the system. Usually, at the start of each term, we begin on a relatively simple song, like Super Trouper by
“Our songs tend to have a message that speaks to members and enforces the ethos of Rock Choir.” ABBA. It’ll be an upbeat song familiar to most, which allows people to learn about their own vocal range, be they a soprano, alto, tenor or bass. As we progress, arrangements become more complex. One recent example is All of Me by John Legend. The parts for each element of the choir isn’t difficult, but it’s when you put them all together that you appreciate the sound we create together.
Is there as much ‘Rock’ as people assume? There’s always variety, as we sing everything from classics to contemporary songs that will become better known with time. Today, we started with I’ll Be There (Jess Glynne) which is beautiful as a choir arrangement. Even though most members hadn’t heard the song before, they now love singing it. Our repertoire also includes renditions of I’m Still Standing
N J Simpkins
(Elton John), Mandy (Barry Manilow) and Something Inside So Strong (Labi Siffre). Whether modern or traditional, songs tend to have a message that speaks to members and enforces the ethos of Rock Choir. People usually have a reason for being here and the songs we sing reflect their experiences. Do groups occasionally come together to sing? The choirs work as individual groups serving their local community, then at a regional level we come together to perform. Occasionally, we have special events where thousands of members from across the country join forces to create an incredible sound. That’s what makes Rock Choir unique.
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The Rock Choir is important to the well-being of members
Vic Chase set up Lost in the Loft 12 years ago
Making Memories Chances are, in a corner of your loft or in the cupboard under the stairs, there’s a box full of VHS that has been gathering dust for over 20 years. They will be videos of family holidays, school plays, weddings, birthdays, fancy dress parties and occasions you’ve forgotten all about. Perhaps you’ve thought about converting these videos to DVD and/or digital files on a memory stick, but never had the time to do anything about it. I have all of the expertise needed at my Southwater-based business, Lost in the Loft. Using broadcast-standard equipment and software including Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro, I am able to restore footage from VHS, Hi-8, Mini DVD and 8mm Cine Film.
Some people have videos that are in such a bad condition that they won’t even play. But the equipment here will - more often than not - balance such recordings and produce a quality DVD recording. As well as editing the footage, digitisers enhance sharpness, improve colour and correct audio if the lip synch is out. I can also add music to recordings. Another thing that makes Lost in the Loft different is that you only pay for the footage you want. So I won’t convert a 1988 episode of EastEnders taped in-between your treasured memories! Occasionally, I edit footage that hasn’t been seen for 50 years. So, my biggest thrill is handing the DVD back to the customer and seeing their reaction. It can be a very emotional moment for people. That’s what makes the job worthwhile.
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Sarah Willis leads the Rock Choir at London Road Methodist Church
Is Rock Choir becoming too popular? Because of how big it has become and its high-profile reputation, people make the mistake of thinking it’s soulless or too commercial. But that couldn't be further from the truth. Each group has its own identity and there’s a family feel. Even as the concept spreads across the nation, Rock Choir maintains its original ethos and that’s why people love it. For thousands of members, it’s a highlight of the week. Every leader has the best intentions for their choir and understands what is needed to keep members happy and challenged. It is that drive which opens doors and presents opportunities that other choirs don’t have. What kind of opportunities? It could be recording at Abbey Road studios, as many Rock Choir members have, or performing at prestigious venues like the Birmingham NEC, O2 Arena or Wembley Stadium. Rock Choirs have backed notable artists including The Soldiers and Russell Watson, and performed on television too. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Rock Choir’s
foundation, so two big shows are being organised for the NEC in November, with thousands of members coming together. To be part of that is something that you don’t forget quickly. Do you perform local concerts? In 2018, we performed at The Capitol, which was great as it gave members the chance to sing in front of friends and family. This year, we’re hoping to organise a performance at Collyer’s in collaboration with The Charlie Gard Foundation. Charitable work and supporting the community is important, as that also reinforces the ethos. WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS
l For more details about Rock Choir, visit: www.rockchoir.com There is a Facebook page for the Chichester, Horsham, Billingshurst and Horley Rock Choir group, run by Sarah Willis.
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GRAPPLING ON DEREK PAXTON ON A LIFETIME DEVOTED TO JUDO Derek Paxton has devoted much of his life to judo training, coaching, competing and refereeing. An industrial accident left him unable to reach the highest levels of sport, but he has coached hundreds - perhaps thousands - since he founded Horsham Judo Club in 1976. Here, Derek tells the story in his own words…
PROMISING START I first went to a judo class when I was nine-years-old. My dad, Len, was a coach at Crawley Judo Club, which met in the huts at Tilgate Forest. I enjoyed it and have never stopped. A year later in 1963, I entered my first competition and steadily improved, winning a County medal when I was 12. In 1966, I won gold at the Sussex Championships, silver in the Regional tournament and bronze at the Nationals. That led to my
selection for the Under-21 Olympic Squad, the feeder group for the Senior Olympic Squad. When I started out, there wasn’t the choice that young people have today. Even judo was held behind closed doors to a degree, as it was assumed by some to be a dangerous sport. It was only at Tokyo in 1964 that it was first at the Olympics, initially as a demonstration sport. I was awarded a black belt 1st Dan at the age of 21 and my goal was to reach the highest
level. However, that dream ended with an industrial accident. I was working for a company that manufactures stainless steel tanks. While feeding a steel sheet into the machine, my glove snagged and my hand was dragged inside. I lost two and a half fingers. Although I couldn’t compete at a National level, I continued to take part in County competitions and never considered quitting judo. Instead, I turned my focus to coaching and founded a club in Horsham.
Initially, we were Horsham Park Judo Club as we met at The Park Recreation Centre (now The Rec). I remember the official opening in 1977 when HRH Princess Alexandra visited. My dad coached the Under-8s and I took Junior and Senior classes. Back then, The Rec was one large sports hall. But after 12 years, they put in mezzanine flooring and created the bowling alley. We needed to find a new home.
Paul Howard assists at Horsham Judo Club
We spent the best part of a decade at Horsham Youth Club along Hurst Road, then moved to Southwater Leisure Centre. Recently, the Parish Council announced the closure of the gym. Beforehand, there was always someone on reception to help people who walked through the door. Now, the leisure centre is run on a self-serve basis and there’s a code on the door, which is a pity. It doesn’t help us when we’re trying to attract members, as the public cannot walk in and see what the club is all about.
“As I fed a steel sheet into the machine, my glove snagged and my hand was dragged inside.” WHO’D BE A REF? As well as being a coach, my dad loved to referee. He would often officiate at competitions where I was taking part and was always harder on me than anyone else! If a contest was tight, I knew I wouldn’t get the decision. He made me work a bit harder. Encouraged by my father, I decided to qualify as a referee alongside coaching duties. My dad reached a National level, so I went one better and reached a European B standard, officiating the final of the European Team Championships in 1990. I also refereed at County and National level and was involved in the conception of the Junior Referee Award.
Derek Paxton leads a Junior class at Southwater Leisure Centre
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Derek Paxton, founder of Horsham Judo Club
Horsham Judo Club welcomes boys and girls
I served on the Sussex Committee for 25 years from 1976, holding many positions until retiring as Chairman.
International Judo Federation. Only members of the BJA can represent Great Britain at the Olympics. We are proud members of the Association.
CLUB SUCCESS
We follow the BJA belt grading system. They progress from white belt to brown belt, with grades based on technique and understanding. At the brown belt stage, an individual can choose either competitive or non-competitive routes to
Affiliation is important for all sports clubs. There are 22 judo associations in this country alone, although the British Judo Association (BJA) is the largest and the one recognised by the
become a black belt 1st Dan. They can compete against others of similar age and weight and earn points based on results. Points are awarded in different ways, with victory by Ippon earning ten points. A hundred points earns you the belt, although you must also pass a theory test. Then you start working towards the next Dan grade.
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Judo is fantastic for confidence. You learn how to control yourself and that gives you confidence on the mat.â&#x20AC;?
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There is also a technical route to earn a black belt, which requires knowledge and understanding of the history of judo, as well as technique. I am a black belt 5th Dan and many others have reached their black belts at the club.
Over the years, several members have competed at National tournaments. One who joined the club when we were still at The Park Recreation Centre and achieved his black belt with us before moving to the West Country, was a leading
competitor on the veteran circuit, winning gold at the European Masters. We’re also very inclusive and proud to have members with Cerebral Palsy and Visual Impairment at the club.
YOUTH OF TODAY There are so many choices for young people when it comes to sports and hobbies. Naturally, that impacts judo’s popularity. Other forms of martial arts have grown in stature and children
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Finnley Taylor is one of the younger members of Horsham Judo Club
TRY AWARD-WINNING SAUSAGES Visit us at Horsham Market every Saturday or selected farm shops and retailers: Popular flavours include: Traditional Pork Pork, Sage & Red Onion Pork & Leek Cumberland Pork, Garlic & Herb Pork & Apple Or try something different: Chorizo Style Pork, Mustard, Pear & Tarragon Chilli & Chocolate Pork & Wild Mushroom
OUR RANGE OF MEAT At Horsham Market, we are now offering fine beef, lamb, pork and poultry. We’ll also be suppling retailers, caterers, pubs and restaurants.
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play with computers, phones and laptops too. During our heyday, we regularly had 30 children at each session. Now, the Junior group is strong, but we only have a couple of Under-8s and half a dozen or so Seniors. Judo is a fantastic sport for confidence. You learn how to control yourself and that gives you confidence on the mat and in all aspects of life. There's no point losing your temper on the mat, as you lose self-control and control over your opponent. So, there is a learning curve to judo that goes beyond technique. As a club, we struggle to attract coaches. It is difficult for people with families and jobs to commit and although I have people who help when possible, finding those that can do it consistently is hard. To obtain coaching qualifications also costs a lot, so finances come
into it and I’d like to see that burden lessened in future. I am 66 now and like the idea of passing the club on to someone to keep it going. Until that person comes along, I am happy to keep going. For now! WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS
l During normal circumstances, the club meets on: Under-8s: Thursday, 5.30pm Junior (boys and girls 8 – 14): Tuesday & Thursday, 6.30 7.30pm Senior Men and Women (14+) Tuesday, 7.30 – 8.30pm For more details contact Derek on 01798 812168 or visit www.horshamjudoclub.com
BANGERS GALORE CHAMPION SAUSAGE MAKER NOW OFFERS MEATY SELECTION
After twenty years at Bangers Galore, David Bell has perfected the art of creating the perfect sausage. As well as being named National Sausage Making champion twice, bangers made by his Horshambased business have been on the menu at 10 Downing Street, BRIT Awards and served to guests including HRH Prince Edward at The South of England Show. Despite such success, David is also a familiar face at the Local Produce Market in Horsham’s Carfax, where his award-winning sausages remain as popular as ever. Once again, Bangers Galore is a grand finalist in the Top Producer category of the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2020. Now, after two decades devoted to sausages, Bangers Galore is expanding by offering a range of meat products, hand-picked from suppliers in Sussex and Surrey. “When I first started on this journey, I served various meats to my customers,” says David. “My focus quickly became sausages and now after 20 years, we have a great reputation and I need a fresh challenge. So, I’m going back to my roots as a butcher,
supplying customers with fine beef, lamb, pork and poultry. As well as offering these meats at the market, we’ll be suppling retailers, caterers, pubs and restaurants, and potentially offering a home delivery service too.”
BUTCHER ROOTS David’s journey in the trade started when he worked as a Saturday lad for Ken Davey, a butcher in Surrey. It was there that he learned how to trim and bone the ham, then eliminate air cavities and ensure flavours are distributed evenly for the perfect sausage. After winning countless awards, including the title of National Sausage Making Champion, David appeared South East News
David Bell is a two-time winner of Sausage Maker of the Year
and even a Saturday morning children’s TV show to showcase his talent. He later worked at Keith Weston at Rawlings and Kensett, creating enticing new recipes. After 15 years, he moved to Horsham with his wife to launch his own business, Bangers Galore. At the first competition he entered as an independent in 1998, he was named Supreme Sausage Maker.
LOCAL OUTLETS Today, Bangers Galore produces about two tonnes of sausages every week, using premium pork and ingredients to produce a consistent flavour.
Bangers Galore now offers a range of meats alongside its sausages
Currently, he supplies Budgens and Southern Co-Op stores, Londis stores in Southwater and Caterways in Horsham, Shelley’s Budgens on Coltsfoot Drive in
Horsham, Capel Stores and New House Farm in Faygate. David hopes that his new meat range will be enjoyed just as much as his sausages. “You can see from our market stall that we only source fine, local meat and the feedback has been terrific. We always get great reviews from our customers who support us week in, week out, and when they’re looking for something different, we do our best to provide it.” “Attitudes to food have changed in recent years. People want produce that’s local and high quality and that is what we offer, whether it be sausages, gammon bacon, chicken, lamb or beef. So, come and give us a try and see what the fuss is about!”
Bangers Galore (01403) 262233 www.bangersgalore.com
KEEPING THE
SPIRIT OF CERAMICS
ALIVE
Julie Murphy runs Ceramic Spirit in Horsham
There is great satisfaction in making an object from clay with your bare hands. It’s a fun and therapeutic process, even if the final piece doesn’t always come out exactly as you envisaged! However, very few places cater for the teaching of this essential skill and novices buying their own pottery wheel will often find that the art of ‘throwing’ is hard to master without expert guidance. It is this knowledge that Julie Murphy provides through her business, Ceramic Spirit, based at her Horsham home.
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“There are several places where you can pick up a plain plate or bowl that’s already been fired, then sit down and paint before glazing it,” says Julie. “But there wasn’t anywhere local that people could go to and learn about pottery, with the opportunity to create their own work from start to finish. I was already using the studio for my own art but missed having people around, so launching Ceramic Spirit made sense.”
BOUNCING IDEAS Julie has previously worked as an art technician at schools in south-east London, where she lived previously. The experience of teaching young people pottery was something she enjoyed, so she continues to offer classes for home-schooled children and after-school classes. For adult groups, Ceramic Spirit brings social benefits by bringing people with a shared passion together. “I’m flexible with my approach, so people don't necessarily start together and all maintain a similar rate of progress,” says Julie. “Everyone has other commitments so the group evolves. It means there’s different levels of experience around the table and we all bounce ideas around.” “Typically, I teach newcomers the slab roll technique first. This involves a flat piece of clay, sometimes imprinted with a decoration such as lace. It is then rolled in to a vase or other vessel. It’s a simple yet effective method. Then after a while,
people might try sculpture or learn how to ‘throw’ pottery on the wheel. That’s far more difficult than it looks!” “After a while, everyone finds what it is that they enjoy most of all and start coming up with their own ideas for work. Often, they find photos on Pinterest and that gives them inspiration. I’m here to make sure that they get the basics right, like rolling out air bubbles to prevent splitting in the kiln. In the main, those in the group work independently at their own
“People find what they enjoy most and come up with their own ideas.” pace. We have a colour board for earthenware and stoneware pottery, so the painting and glazing elements cause us plenty of discussion, which contributes to the great atmosphere.”
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Laura Cottingham goes to Ceramic Spirit to relax
â&#x20AC;&#x153;I work in a stressful environment and I need something to calm me down!â&#x20AC;?
Megan Bewley creates a vase decorated with flowers
Helen Simmans enjoys working at her own pace
Joanna Gill also makes textiles
KEEP THE SPARK When not running classes, Julie takes the opportunity to focus on her own work. Having the business removes much of the commercial pressure of art, allowing Julie to be inventive with diverse with her output. The objects and sculpture she creates are so wide ranging that Julie doesn’t have a distinctive style of her own. Not that she’s worried...
TARGET TIMBER SYSTEMS Traditional Values using Modern Methods of Construction
“When pottery is your sole income, you can fall into the trap of making the same thing over and again, as you know it sells and you need to earn a living. Many people I met while studying for my degree in Ceramics are working for commercial reasons now. When you do that, the spark disappears. I didn’t want to fall into that trap as I want to maintain my enjoyment.” “So, I use a wide selection of colours and effects, working on projects of all shapes and sizes. I tend to juggle several projects at any given time, so currently I’m making a hare sculpture as well as a basin for the house and the occasional bowl or vase as commission pieces.”
THE THROW BACK People join the group for a variety of reasons. Young people are often brought along by parents as pottery has been largely neglected by schools lacking space for turning wheels or the finances for kilns.
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“There’s a lot of talk about mindfulness these days and this caters for that perfectly!” Usually, schools that do offer pottery use air-dried clay that is liable to fall apart. Some of my adult students have other interests in creative arts, whilst others have been inspired by programmes like The Great British Throw Down. Joanna Gill came along to Ceramic Spirit after being asked what she would like for Christmas. As a screen printing and textiles enthusiast, she was looking for something creative. Megan Bewley needed something to help chill out after a hard day at work. “Pottery gives me time to focus, even if it’s only once a week,” she said. “After learning the basics and techniques like coiling, I tried the pottery wheel and am now working on my biggest project so far. It’s a slab-rolled vase
decorated with flowers around the sides. We are always learning and pushing on.” Laura Cottingham wanted a hobby that allowed her to be creative and found what she wanted at Ceramic Spirit. “I work in a stressful environment at a London theatre, commuting and working long hours. I need something to calm me down and this is ideal. I like being able to make whatever I like.” Whether they’re making bowls, vases, cups or saucers, the class is full of praises for Julie’s influence and teaching. “The atmosphere is always calming and never stressed,” says Helen Simmans. “There’s a lot of talk about mindfulness and this caters for that perfectly.” WORDS: BEN MORRIS PHOTOS: TOBY PHILLIPS l The cost for adults is £20 for a one-hour class with a 10% discount for block bookings. Children’s sessions cost £13. Contact Julie on: (01403) 563297, info@ceramicspirit.co.uk www.ceramicspirit.co.uk Facebook: Ceramic Spirit
This is who we are...
Proud to donate part of our sales fee to support local volunteer run organisations as part of our Community Chest Scheme. Get a free instant valuation at www.athomeestates.co.uk 01403 886288 | help@athomeestates.co.uk 6 The Parade, Caterways, Horsham RH12 2AL
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